Fratello Summer Watch Picks 2025: Mike’s Favorites From G-Shock, Norqain, And Ming
Even though it’s only July, it feels like it’s been summer for months here in the UK. It’s been hot and dry, two descriptors rarely used here in Blighty. So, I’ve had ample time to practice my summer watch game. So far, I’ve been away from the pool, so the choices may seem strange. I’ll do my best to explain.
If you’re a Fratello On Air listener, you may have caught the episode where Balazs and I discussed the idea of a summer watch. During the show, we strayed from the typical idea that a watch for this season must be a diver. Many people don’t live near water or have access to a pool. Therefore, the concept of what makes a watch appropriate for this time of year requires an open mind. As I discussed, it’s the only period when most of my vintage pieces go into hiding. The transition between high outside humidity and cold air conditioning inside can be tough on our old tickers. Then, there are the thunderstorms and, if we’re lucky, a dip into a pool or the sea. I think you get the idea, so let’s move on to the watches.
The easy summer watch — the G-Shock DW-5000R-1A Origin Revival
My first pick has a mouthful of a name, but you need to know that this DW-5000R-1A is essentially a spot-on reissue of the first-ever G-Shock from 1985. At 42.3mm by 48.9mm, the bio-based resin watch is also one of the smaller offerings from the mega brand. Therefore, it fits my smaller wrist and works well as a daily watch.
G-Shock watches aren’t often considered a great summer watch option because the all-black models can come across as utilitarian. Many forget that these pieces have a 200m water resistance rating and are built to handle just about every risky summer activity one can imagine. The image of G-Shocks has also come a long way, and they’re now embraced by everyone from the military to fashionistas.
What I like best about the Origin Revival, though, is the simplicity of its looks and the fact that I don’t need to fall back on my engineering degree to use it. Sure, it’s battery powered, but the case back is the hardcore screw-in type instead of the standard-grade plate held in place by several screws. Plus, there’s something cool and a bit special about wearing the watch that started a digital revolution. At €199, the watch is a bargain. It sells out all the time, but authorized dealers are offering pre-orders.
The Norqain Independence Skeleton 40mm
My wild-card pick as a favorite summer watch is the Norqain Independence Skeleton 40mm. Yes, my vintage buddies will pick on me for choosing a modern, open-worked watch, but, dammit, I’m having fun with this! Admittedly, I don’t own this watch, but after writing it up, Norqain sent me the stainless version and black DLC model for a proper test drive. Legibility is challenging on this type of watch, but I look at it from an angle to locate the luminous tips on each hand.
No, what I like about these watches is that they’re fun, kind of exotic-looking, and seriously comfortable. Norqain needed a smaller case size to be more competitive, and this 40mm piece fits like a dream. As I’m still a tad conservative, the stainless model is more my speed, but they’re both cool. The chronometer-rated Sellita makes some grouchy because of the €3,960 base price, but the watch feels even more expensive. With a 100m depth rating, a gloriously comfortable rubber strap, and a screw-down crown, this is a great summer watch.
The Ming 37.02 Minimalist
Oof, for my third and final summer watch, I’ve chosen another non-diver. Technically, the Ming 37.02 Minimalist came out in late 2024, but it’s a serial-production piece and available on the brand’s website. So, why did this watch make the cut? Well, there are times during the summer that call for slightly dressier garb. Instead of grabbing a vintage dress watch, a piece like the 37.02 is happy to enjoy a cocktail and food that didn’t originate from the deep fryer.
When the pinky-lifting ends, though, the Ming can let its proverbial hair down and engage in waterborne activities. The watch has a 100m water resistance rating and is paired with the brand’s peerless black rubber strap with a tuck buckle. Even on rubber, the 38mm by 44.5mm watch looks classy. Then, there’s the sapphire dial with the company’s proprietary Polar White luminous material. At CHF 3,250, the Ming 37.02 Minimalist is not inexpensive, but a prudent buyer will cough up a few more francs for a second leather strap in a vivid color to up the seasonal liveliness. The customized Sellita SW300.M1 is also a treat to view through the case back’s sapphire display.
Final thoughts on the summer watch
Of course, if diving and bright colors are your thing, my list won’t be very appealing. I own those watches as well, but for 2025, these slightly more muted options struck more of a chord. Regardless of which summer watch or watches you choose, enjoy the heat, and have a great time if you’re taking some much-needed vacation!
