When traveling, your watch isn’t just an accessory—it’s a practical tool that keeps you on schedule, looks great, and can handle the demands of your journey. The best travel watches combine style with functionality, offering features that make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a guide to the best watches for traveling, highlighting timepieces that are perfect for every adventurer, from business trips to weekend getaways.
1. Opt for GMT Watches: Track Multiple Time Zones with Ease
A GMT watch is one of the best options for frequent travelers, allowing you to keep track of multiple time zones simultaneously. These watches feature an additional hour hand that displays a second time zone, perfect for staying on schedule while crossing borders.
GMT Features to Look For:
- Easy-to-Read GMT Hand: A brightly colored or distinct GMT hand makes it easy to see the second time zone at a glance, keeping you on track in unfamiliar settings.
- 24-Hour Bezel: Some GMT watches include a rotating 24-hour bezel, allowing you to track up to three time zones—ideal for international travel.
- Clear and Functional Design: Choose a GMT watch with a clean, readable dial that ensures you can check the time quickly, even when jet-lagged.
Example Pairing: A future model, like the 85RETRO™ Model 3 GMT, will offer a GMT function, perfect for staying on top of different time zones during your travels.
2. Choose Durable Materials: Tough Watches for the Journey
Traveling can be rough on your gear, so it’s essential to choose a watch made from durable materials that can withstand the bumps, drops, and environmental changes of your trip.
Durable Material Tips:
- Stainless Steel or Titanium: Both materials are strong, resistant to corrosion, and can handle the wear and tear of travel. Titanium is lighter, making it a great choice for long days on the go.
- Sapphire Crystal: A scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects your watch face, ensuring it stays clear and pristine no matter where your adventures take you.
- TR-90 Resin: Lightweight and impact-resistant, TR-90 resin is perfect for sporty, casual travel watches that need to handle everything from hikes to city tours.
Example Pairing: The 85RETRO™ Model 1 features a combination of 316L stainless steel and TR-90 resin, providing a strong, lightweight design that’s perfect for traveling.
3. Water Resistance: Stay Ready for Any Conditions
Whether you’re snorkeling in tropical waters, caught in a sudden downpour, or just washing up after a long flight, a water-resistant watch ensures you’re prepared for any situation.
Water Resistance Tips:
- 50 Meters: Suitable for light water activities, swimming, and rainy days—great for most casual travelers.
- 100 Meters or More: Ideal for snorkeling, diving, and more adventurous activities, providing extra peace of mind during your travels.
- Screw-Down Crown: Look for watches with screw-down crowns for added water resistance, keeping your watch sealed and secure against water intrusion.
Example Pairing: The 85RETRO™ Model 1 offers 50 meters of water resistance, making it perfect for a variety of travel activities, from city sightseeing to beach outings.
4. Easy-to-Read Dials: Keep Track of Time on the Go
When you’re navigating busy airports, exploring new cities, or trying to catch a train, you need a watch that’s easy to read at a glance. Clear, high-contrast dials and bold numerals make it easy to stay on schedule no matter how hectic your travel day gets.
Readability Tips:
- High Contrast: Watches with high-contrast dials, like black and white or blue and silver, improve readability in various lighting conditions.
- Large Numerals or Indices: Bold, easy-to-read numbers or markers ensure you can check the time quickly without squinting, especially in dimly lit areas.
- Luminous Features: Glow-in-the-dark hands and markers are essential for checking the time in low light, such as early morning flights or evening excursions.
Example Pairing: The 85RETRO™ Model 1’s high-contrast dial and icy blue Superluminova make it easy to read in any lighting conditions, perfect for busy travel days.
5. Versatile Styles: Adapt to Different Settings Effortlessly
Travel watches should be versatile enough to fit various settings, from casual sightseeing to formal dinners. A watch that blends sporty and classic elements can adapt to whatever your travel itinerary throws your way.
Versatility Tips:
- Sleek and Minimalist: A minimalist design works well in both casual and dressier settings, making it a great choice for versatile travel wear.
- Interchangeable Straps: Watches with quick-release or interchangeable straps let you switch from a sporty silicone strap to a refined leather one in seconds, adapting your style as needed.
- Neutral Colors: Watches in neutral tones like black, silver, or navy pair easily with a range of outfits, ensuring you always look put-together.
Example Pairing: The 85RETRO™ Model 1’s sleek design and interchangeable silicone straps make it a versatile choice for any travel occasion, from daytime exploring to evening dining.
6. Lightweight and Comfortable: Perfect for Long Travel Days
Comfort is key when choosing a travel watch, especially when you’re on the go all day. Lightweight materials and comfortable straps ensure your watch feels good on your wrist, no matter how long your travel days are.
Comfort Tips:
- Silicone Straps: Soft and flexible, silicone straps are perfect for long wear and are breathable enough to keep you comfortable in warm climates.
- Slim Profiles: A slim, low-profile watch won’t get in the way when you’re adjusting sleeves, carrying luggage, or navigating tight airplane seats.
- Adjustable Straps: Watches with multiple holes or adjustable clasps allow you to find the perfect fit, ensuring your watch stays secure and comfortable.
Example Pairing: The lightweight 85RETRO™ Model 1 with silicone straps provides all-day comfort, perfect for exploring new destinations from morning to night.
7. Functional Features: Enhance Your Travel Experience
Additional watch features can make traveling more convenient and enjoyable. From chronographs to alarms, the right functionalities can keep you on track and add extra value to your travel watch.
Functional Tips:
- Chronograph: A chronograph can act as a timer, perfect for keeping track of layovers, cooking times, or workout sessions during your trip.
- Alarm Function: Some watches include alarm settings to help you stay on schedule, especially useful for waking up for early flights or meetings.
- Date Display: A date function keeps you aware of the day, which can be surprisingly helpful when you’re crossing time zones and dealing with jet lag.
Example Pairing: The 85RETRO™ Model 1’s combination of sleek design and functional features makes it a perfect travel companion for any journey.
Conclusion
Choosing the best watch for traveling means finding a balance of style, functionality, and durability. From GMT functions and water resistance to lightweight designs and versatile aesthetics, the right travel watch will enhance your journeys, keeping you stylish and on schedule wherever you go. Explore options like the 85RETRO™ Model 1 to find the perfect timepiece for your next adventure, ensuring you’re always ready to explore the world in style.
