These Watches Will Define the Summer, According to the Watch Illuminati
When the upstart watchmaker Vanguart launched in 2021, it skipped the typical newcomer brand tropes—value propositions, homage watches, hand-finished movements, novel shapes—in favor of simply making watches that could easily be mistaken for sci-fi movie gadgets. From Ben-Yehuda’s perspective, they might as well be watches sent from the future to ensure you have a perfect summer.
“When I think of a summer watch, I’m not thinking quiet or understated—I’m thinking unapologetic,” said Ben-Yehuda. “Something bright, effortless. So for me, that’s the new Vanguart Orb in rose gold on a white (or sand-colored) strap.”
Of course, when it comes to summer watches, what matters most is how they feel on your wrist—in terms of fit and weight—in the blaring humidity. “Watches can tend to feel uncomfortable in the heat, and this one doesn’t,” Ben-Yehuda said. “The Orb is shockingly ergonomic. It hugs the wrist in a way that makes you forget you’re even wearing it—until the light catches that single diamond and the whole dial comes to life.”
And much like the other entries on this list, the Orb simply has that undefinable, you-know-it-when-you-see-it summer quality. “The peripheral rotor, in motion around the dial, gives it this kinetic energy that feels exactly right for summer—playful, dynamic, and just a little unexpected,” said Ben-Yehuda. “If I had to wear one watch this season, this would be it. No hesitation.”
Karlos Williams, collector
The all-time classic: Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II “Pepsi”
Sometimes you don’t need to overthink it. The best ice cream flavor on a blazing hot day? Vanilla is top tier. Best summer activity? Going to the beach. And when it comes to the Watch of the Summer? Well, why not one of the most iconic watches ever: the Rolex GMT-Master II “Pepsi” with a blue-and-red bezel. “The ‘Pepsi’ on a jubilee bracelet transcends the usual summer watch deliberations,” Williams said.
Rolex’s renowned watch has all the attributes you want from a summer watch, according to Williams. The colorful bezel is perfect for sunny days. “Its red-and-blue bezel doesn’t just catch light, it transforms it, creating a dynamic play of colors that feels equally at home poolside or in the boardroom,” he said.
Williams also specifies that for the summer, the GMT-Master is best on the pretty jubilee bracelet over the more classic oyster. “The jubilee bracelet adds a sophisticated fluidity that perfectly balances the sport and dress elements,” Williams. The GMT is really an all-season watch that really thrives in these warmer months, when you want some color and a piece you can wear any time and anywhere. “Like a perfectly tailored suit,” Williams said, “it elevates every moment without ever feeling like it’s trying.”
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