Fratello Talks: What Makes A Watch Elegant?
Longines famously says, “Elegance is an attitude.” But let’s be honest; there’s probably more to it than that. On today’s episode of Fratello Talks, we’re asking the big question: what makes a watch truly elegant? Is it the proportions, the case material, or the strap? Maybe it’s how the watch sits on your wrist, or perhaps it’s the mysterious mix of all these things, like some horological alchemy that gives a timepiece its unmistakable charm. And let’s not forget the wearer. Elegance might not live in the watch at all. It could be in the confidence and subtlety that the person wearing the watch brings to it. Whatever the answer (or lack thereof), Nacho, Lex, and Thomas are ready to dig in, veering slightly off the rails along the way. But before the debates begin, it’s time for a wrist check.
Wrist check
We start with Lex, wearing his Oris × Fratello Big Crown Pointer Date, which combines an oxblood-red dial and a bronze case. It’s a watch that gets us all in the mood for fall, with its mix of warm tones that echo the season’s changing foliage. And although it debuted all those years ago, it’s still one of our favorite limited editions we’ve had a hand in creating.
Now, speaking of elegance, Thomas is wearing a Serica Parade with the new linen-texture dial. This blue model is a perfect match for his denim-heavy outfit. And despite the clash of dressy and casual, it still maintains its elegance. You can read all about the two new Parade models introduced last week here.
Nacho has gone for gold today with one of his collection’s oldest and most elegant watches, the 1940s Chronographe Suisse. Though this watch is over 70 years old, it looks fresh off the lot, mainly thanks to a new dark green alligator strap he has paired it with. Even though it’s a chronograph, the 37mm rose gold case and classic styling give it a distinctively classy look.
Fratello Talks: What Makes A Watch Elegant?
Elegance is making a comeback in the watch world. Our very own Lex wrote a thought piece about this fascinating phenomenon. But what exactly makes a watch elegant? To determine that, we first have to define “elegance.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “refined grace or dignified propriety,” or “tasteful richness of design or ornamentation,” and even “dignified gracefulness or restrained beauty of style.” Ultimately, it’s a hard thing to pin down, but certain factors do contribute to this special feeling, especially when it comes to watches. This is the topic of today’s discussion. And though the guys aren’t the most elegant creatures out there, they still have plenty to say on the subject.
What do you think makes a watch elegant? Does it lie in the watch itself, or do external factors (such as where or how you wear it) come into play? Join in the discussion in the comments section below, and be sure to tune in next week for a far less elegant episode of Fratello Talks.
Header image: Bulang & Sons
