The 'Lockdown Watch': Defining a New Horological Category

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

39 replies5372 views2 photos

In a thought-provoking post from 2020, 1WatchMan introduces the concept of a 'lockdown watch,' a timepiece specifically suited for extended periods at home. He challenges the traditional notion of building a diverse collection for every occasion, proposing a new category for comfort and practicality in a changing world. His inquiry sparks a lively discussion among collectors, exploring what defines this unique horological need.

39 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

So far, I've been building my watch collection by adding some diversity while I was trying to fill all the gaps. You know what I mean, trying to have a watch for every occasion.

I've never spent so much time working from home and it looks like it's going to be more frequent in the future, so this seems to be a kind of new situation which will "require" a specific watch 😱

I don't have yet access to all my watches, and I'm still stuck with the two I picked more than two months ago. I'm not comfortable wearing them at home everyday, so I find myself naked (horologicaly speaking 😛) most of the time. I still need to try with a couple of my watches to see if I do have a proper "lockdown- watch" already, but I'm afraid it's not the case and I'll need something else.

In terms of requirements, I'm thinking of a light watch, thin, extremely comfortable, neither too delicate nor expensive but "high-end-ish", and with date indication.

I'm still thinking about the date requirement, as it disqualifies the Bulgari Octo Finissimo GMT Chrono Ti, which is at the top of my list at the moment.

I would love to read yor thoughts. Facing a similar "problem"? Any other suggestions?

Thanks and stay safe!

Key Points from the Discussion

The Bulgari Octo Finissimo is a strong contender for a 'lockdown watch' due to its thinness and comfort, especially the titanium version. While the original poster considered it, the date requirement was a point of debate.
The Cartier Santos is suggested as a versatile option, particularly the large size, noting its thin profile, comfortable bracelet, and well-integrated date window. The gradient blue dial and new gray dial/DLC bezel models are highlighted.
Some collectors maintain distinct watches for different activities, including work, free time, and special occasions, even during lockdown. This contrasts with the idea of needing a single 'lockdown watch.'
For a 'lockdown watch,' a hygienic, thin, and unobtrusive timepiece is beneficial. An Apple Watch is suggested for its health-tracking features, encouraging physical activity.
Other traditional, yet robust, options for a comfortable 'lockdown watch' include the Chopard L.U.C XPS, JLC Master Ultra Thin Reserve de Marche, and JLC Master Ultra Thin Perpetual.

The Discussion

1WatchMan

May 18, 2020

This is a good option in my book 👍🏻

Only a hair heavy maybe and no date indication.

amanico

May 18, 2020

Well, you know my love for dates. ;p [nt]

1WatchMan

May 18, 2020

That's very true 😉

I don't necessarily love the look of the date indication, but I've found that I like to to be able to check the date on my watches from time to time. This is even more important on a daily watch.

amanico

May 18, 2020

I understand. But you can have your lab top or cell phone for that. [nt]

1WatchMan

May 18, 2020

This is what I say to myself once and again

But I haven't yet convinced me 😅

Echi

May 18, 2020

What a photo. What a watch :-)(nt)

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Horological Meandering forum with 39 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →

The 'Lockdown Watch': Defining a New Horological Category

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

Related Articles