Colourful Men’s Watches To Liven Up Your Spring Wardrobe

 

UPDATED AUGUST 2024

Somewhere over the rainbow…there are folks hard at work taking inspiration from the electromagnetic spectrum blissfully cresting over our heads…or such like. Rainbow watches currently are lighting up the luxury watch sector as much as your latest electricity bill.

We may be living in hard times and rising inflation. But you can always count on us to add a spark of refinery to your wardrobe to electrify an increasingly greying world.

In this case, there isn’t just one rainbow. Many brands such as Hublot, Zenith and Rolex have been sending colour infused timepieces up into the consumer ether and finding out that these are what the public want. Released in 2012, the spark that lit the original horological fire were the Rolex Daytona 116598RBOW and 116599RBOW.

And the trend has been as hot as Halle Berry ever since, resulting in the biggest names jumping aboard. From John Mayer to controversial football star Zlatan Ibrahimović who both own variations of the Rainbow Rolex Daytona.

Not everyone takes their coffee black and their shirts white, dear timelords. The colour craze is upon us so without further ado, let's delve into the invigorating world of vibrant men’s watches to discover our pick of the best 8 colourful men’s watches. 

 

Rolex Rainbow Daytona 40mm 

Launched in 2012, The Rolex Rainbow Daytona burst on to the horological scene.

On its own accord, The Rolex Daytona Cosmograph is worthy of being placed on any wrist due to its heritage and connection with Paul Newman and Eric Clapton. Simply put The Rolex Daytona is a timeless model and remains one of the most collectible Rolex men’s watches today

Rolex Rainbow Daytona - Source - The Collectors Circle 

 

Its demand has risen consistently, even doubling in price on the secondary market. Following on from the success of the rainbow model, Rolex has since reissued the Rolex Rainbow Daytona at Baselworld in 2018. 

In a glitzy Everose gold with black lacquer dial, the 116595RBOW was launched. Where the timeless tachymetric scale once lay proudly on the bezel, sapphires now adorn it in gradual rainbow hues. Ideal for those looking to buy a Rolex, why not pair this timepiece with a refined, white turtleneck or camel trench coat at your casual evening drinkypoos in Mayfair. 

Presenting 56 brilliant-cut diamonds, placed in the lugs and crown guard, the indices are replaced by 11 baguette-cut sapphires. The 12 o’clock marker is presented as a sleek Rolex crown logo embodying the brand down to a tee. 

This rainbow imbued model is certainly no different as it's worn by many high profile celebs such as popstar Adam Levine and Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Grezimann. Buy a Rolex like this and pair it with a classy camel trench coat or dress it down with a casual black T-shirt and jeans…it really fits everything! 

You can no longer buy a Rolex Rainbow Daytona 40mm at retail as it’s been discontinued.

You can buy it on the secondary market for upwards of £310,000 as of August 2024. 

 

Hublot Big Bang Unico Integrated Rainbow 

Hublot has the reputation of bold innovation already on their side, perfect for those looking to buy a Hublot. When they decided to crank out some vibrant men’s watches in 2023, they showed us that class never goes out of style. 

Big Bang Unico Integrated Rainbow - Source - Hublot 

 

The rainbow aesthetic has been used quite often by Hublot, its first being the Unico Sapphire Rainbow, released in 2017. They still manage to invigorate a new technicolour style that Jason and his dreamcoat would be proud of through a joint release, the Hublot Big Bang Unico Integrated Rainbow and Hublot Big Bang Unico Time Only Rainbow. 

Focusing on the Integrated Rainbow, using Hublots own King Gold in polished-satin finish, The Hublot Big Bang Unico Integrated Rainbow is designed the same as its Big Bang Unico predecessors. The iconic bezel and signature six exposed screws complete the angular case, surrounding the HUB1280 calibre.

Beating at 4Hz, this ensures top-notch chronograph functions like flyback performance work perfectly.

To fulfil the rainbow aesthetic, The Hublot Big Bang Unico Integrated Rainbow features 174 gemstones which are adorned on both the case and bezel. On the integrated bracelet, there are 768 additional stones built into its links. This is a perfect model if you are looking to buy a watch that is both bold and eye-catching on the wrist.

This gem-encrusted Hublot was crafted from 18k gold.

If you want to buy a Hublot like this, it’ll set you back a cool £152,000 as of August 2024. 

 

Zenith Defy Extreme Felipe Pantone

Zenith are a phenomenal brand, creating brilliant works which have influenced top level men’s watches. One example is Zenith’s creation of the ‘El Primero’ calibre. It's the world's most accurate series-made calibre, reaching a frequency of 36,000vph. This calibre would later be used by Rolex in their Daytona model. 

The collab with Spanish Argentinian artist Felipe Pantone has led to our next top colourful watch, The Zenith Defy Extreme Felipe Pantone.  

As a quick summation, Felipe Patone is notable for his works using bold colours and geometrical patterns involving graffiti and installations.

Zenith Defy Extreme Felipe Pantone - Source - Monochrome Watches

 

This project is a match made in heaven for those looking to buy a Zenith that is unique in every aspect. Limited to just 100 pieces, it is predominantly composed of stainless steel.

The dial has a micro-engraved iridescent pattern allowing a multitude of shades to expand throughout. This isn't just isolated to the dial as the entirety of the timepiece has a similar ripple colour effect. Due to the sapphire crystals, you can view the minute and hour hands which are similarly coating in a 3D rainbow gradient coating. 

As part of the Defy Extreme collection, it progresses Zenith's popular Defy portfolio into unknown terrain, raising the size to 45mm and skeletonising the dials powered by the iconic El Primero Calibre. 

Made entirely from reflective stainless steel, discover a translucent ocean blue colour which is crafted from a crystalline glass material, relatable to synthetic sapphire. The bright blue silicone strap further enhances the oil spill style colouring and is perfect for a beach party or that glitzy bash.

You can buy a Zenith at retail value for £25,300 as of August 2024. 

 

Richard Mille RM 68-01

Richard Mille are famous for their ostentatious and bright men’s watches, using materials such silicon nitride, gold fused with carbon and quartz. These materials are only usually present in the racing industries, harking to Richard Mille’s racing heritage.

Richard Mille watches vary in style. Some are unbelievably flat yet powerful like the RM UP-01 Ferrari, which weighs less than 3 grams. Or, they are as graphic as a Stan Lee comic such as the RM88 Automatic Tourbillon Smiley featuring the ultimate emblem of pop culture…and 90s raves.

The rule of thumb is generally to make something innovative and priced beyond normal folks' means. The Richard Mille RM 68-01 is no exception to this wonderful rule. Limited to only 30 pieces, the RM 68-01 came out of Richard Mille’s desire to blend contemporary art with Haute Horlogerie.

While you could buy a Richard Mille in any model, this is the ultimate model for those looking for the ultimate splash of colour.

RM 68-01 - Source - Richard Mille 

 

Created in partnership with Cyril Phan, known by his pseudonym ‘Cyril Kongo’, it took the artists at Richard Mille over a year to match the painting technique used by the street artist.

A special, purpose-built airbrush was developed to allow Kongo to spray his colours one droplet at a time. The back of the watch imitates a splash of paint against a wall, amalgamating in a delightful spectrum of strong tones. It's a perfect model for those looking to buy a Richard Mille packed with character and visually pleasing. 

Every single model is unique so each model is their own distinctive work of art. Featuring sapphire crystal and stainless steel bridges show off the colours beautifully, resulting in a spectacular graffiti art style dial. The paint was specially designed so it wouldn't imbalance the movement or jam up any cogs representing the level of detail and craftsmanship.

Pair this with a simple white t-shirt and smart jeans or dress it up for special occasions.

This model originally retailed for around £560,000 but its secondary market value sees this figure coming in at around three times the price as of August 2024. 

 

Tag Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon Polychrome

Now most watch fans understand the deep relationship between TAG Heuer and F1. We have two words for you… Lewis Hamilton.

But the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon Polychrome takes the classic, sporty chic Tag Heuer design and refreshes it with a lustrous rainbow effect. 

Released in November 2022, this offers those looking to buy a Tag Heuer watch, a model outside of the regular sporty design. Utilising a unique PVD coating technique, the base dial radiates a rainbow effect which could easily be construed as an iridescent oil spill when placed under light. 

Surrounded by a black titanium case and carbon bezel, it delivers a solid backdrop for the opaline hues to shine through.

The indices are painted a luminescent white which has been accomplished through Positive Coating, the only name across the globe which has mastered this intricate technique. The domed sapphire crystal further projects the colours allowing you to look straight into the spectrum of colour. 

 ​​

Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon Polychrome - Source - Tag Heuer 

 

The watch still maintains its rugged masculinity through the hardy 45mm grade 5 titanium case and black PVD brushed finish. This model keeps its classic tachymetric scale which pays homage to TAG Heuer’s sporting prowess stretching back to 1986. 

With a sapphire back, the watch beats at 4Hz and is powered by the Calibre HEUER02T. Feel the need for speed yet?

Limited to 150 pieces, don't expect to pick up this bad boy for the retail price of £22,250 as of August 2024.

 

Breitling Superocean Heritage ‘57 Special Edition II

Breitling has many established collections such as the Navitimer and the Superocean Heritage. The Superocean Heritage ‘57 collection in particular pays tribute to the Beach Boys surfing lifestyle of the 1960s.

This colourful variation still imbues the easy style and California living of the 60s through its vibrant visuals. As part of a limited edition of 1000 pieces, this particular watch is much more valuable due to its exclusivity. It still maintains Breitlings signature aspects such as a concave bidirectional ceramic bezel and a dial with oversized indices.

Combined with the option of a mesh bracelet or calfskin leather strap, the Breitling Superocean Heritage projects its colour on both hands and indices, circling around to give a glorious rainbow effect. 

It's an ideal entry point for those seeking to buy a Breitling with enhanced colour and spring like vibrancy. This model was released during the pandemic in 2020 and as such, it was designed in a way that represented optimism and hope.

The silver undertones of the mesh bracelet, lugs and serrated bezel make the coloured hands and indices stand out without being too flashy. This means you can pair this watch with a sleek navy suit and not feel like you are being too casual.

Superocean Heritage ‘57 Special Edition II - Source - Breitling

 

Measuring 42mm, this stainless steel model features a blue ceramic bezel ring offering high levels of durability. The colours specifically marking the 3, 6, 9 and 12 o’clock on the dial. With Super-Luminova properties, the hands and hour markers feature a striking rainbow graduation of various colours from yellow and green to violet, red and orange.

There’s also the option to buy a Breitling Superocean Heritage with an Outerknown ECONYL yarn NATO strap. Time is of the essence if you want to get your spring attire on point!

This model retails for £4,650 as of August 2024.

 

Chopard Impériale Joaillerie 384240-5003

Chopard perfectly does the line dance of high quality jewellery and great watchmaking through the Imperiale Joaillerie 384240-5003

Chopard Imperiale Joaillerie - Source - Time Transformed

 

This self winding mechanical movement incorporates 581 sapphires, equating to a grand total of almost 50 carats. The gems themselves required over 1000 hours of expert work in selecting and cutting resulting in first-rate craftsmanship. You can buy a Chopard Imperiale Joaillerie with the safe knowledge that serious time has been put into each model.

The rainbow theme is projected through the entirety of the watch, through the bezel and the five concentric circles on the dial. The level of colour is astonishing and it takes rainbow watches to new realms. 

The openworked hands still have the capability of standing out against the beaming jewels. The  sapphires and amethyst cabochon sit proudly alongside the bracelet which has the same rainbow progression as the dial. This watch is created for women but the size of 40mm compliments a man more.

It's designed for folks with experimental fashion so wear this with bold tones, purple shirts or bright blue suits to really step into spring. While you are unable to buy a Chopard Imperiale Joaillerie at retail price any more, look to the secondary market where the price sits around £550,000 as of August 2024. 

Slip on your hiking boots and take a walk this spring to proudly present this behemoth of a watch. 

 

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Music Edition

Audemars Piguet hasn't set a foot wrong in the timepiece world so far, giving us iconic models such as The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar 15416CE.OO.1225CE.01, which popularised using black ceramic and the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ref.15500. One of its flagship models since 1972, it has been worn by many high profile celebs including Will Smith.

You could buy an Audemars Piguet in any model and be pleased due to the fantastic craftsmanship and innovation. And The Royal Oak Offshore Music Edition is a perfect example of this.

Royal Oak Offshore Music Edition, Source: Audemars Piguet

 

Their emblematic Royal Oak collection sets the standard for what Audemars Piguet are trying to achieve in the luxury watch world. Haute Horlogie with exceptional design and precision perpetuates everything this Swiss brand is about. With their release of the Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Music Edition in 2022, they have continued to develop and progress men’s watches with their own colourful stamp on matters.

Ranging from 37mm to 43mm, there have been a variety of models which have been released from this variation. Produced in various materials namely titanium, 18k white gold and one in black ceramic, they all include the signature Tapisserie dial that gives a horological nod to the Royal Oak collection. 

But this time Audemars Piguet have modified it to resemble all things musical in the form of a distinctive equaliser. The knurled-textured studs are reminiscent of jack plugs while the crown guards resemble the fader on mixing consoles. Time to get jacked up pop pickers! The gem set model has its dial and bezel set with a variety of ‘Harmony’ cut stones placed delicately over a blue aventurine dial.

The dial represents a VU metre and the equaliser which takes centre stage is crafted as individual columns with various gemstones such as rubies, peridots and sapphires.

The same gems on the dial are similarly presented on the bezel, beautifully matching the shades of the equaliser and utilise the ‘harmony’ cut, cleverly playing on the dial's iridescent qualities. This rainbow watch certainly deserves its place in our 8 men’s watches for your spring wardrobe.

As Lionel Richie once declared…let the music play on.

You can no longer buy an Audemars Piguet at retail value, but you can find it on the secondary market for upwards of £205,000 as of August 2024.

 

Rest Of The Best Colourful Men’s Watches 

Are you not entertained? Without ripping too much from Gladiator, allow us to have our own Sparta moment by unveiling some more colourful watches that we’ve spotted recently. From Omega to Chopard, let’s get into some more colourful watches.

 

Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M Armand Duplantis

Brand: Omega / Founded: 1848 / Model: Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M Ultra Light Armand Duplantis / Reference number: 220.92.41.21.03.002

Case Thickness	13.5mm
Material	Titanium
Case Diameter	41mm
Calibre	8928 Ti
Colour	Blue

Before we start reading into this next colourful watch, it’s imperative we first identify the gentleman in the title. And this is a real Chariots of Fire timepiece that set the Paris 2024 Olympics alight for many enthusiasts.

Source - Omega

 

If you kept up to date with the 2024 Olympics in the French capital, you may know this gent as the record breaking Swedish-American pole vaulter who managed to achieve gold with 6.25 metres (though he broke this at the Silesia Diamond League Event in the same year, increasing it to 6.26m). 

No, it’s not the French gentleman who, ahem, had a little mishap when making his great leap over the bar. So, with Armand Duplantis being the gold medallist, Omega had the fortune of unwrapping like a Christmas tree, an unreleased Omega Aqua Terra.

If that’s not testament to its super lightweight construction, we don’t know what is. Now it’s time to get into the juicy details behind this literally record-breaking Seamaster Aqua Terra 150m Armand Duplantis! 

The Ultra-Light sub-species in the Omega Aqua Terra line has been in production since 2021, wherein Omega turned to Gamma Titanium for the materials, has an “ultra-light” weight and extra scratch resistance profile. 

Coming in at 41mm x 13.5mm, they are by no means a small addition to any man’s wardrobe. However, they retain the Gamma Titanium material and give it a fabulous sand-blasted finish to enhance their sporty allure. 

To give you a quick run-down, Gamma Titanium has been noted for its role in the aerospace industry due to its sensational strength and light-weight feel. Affixed onto a yellow and blue strap, to coincide with the Swede’s home grown colours, the watches are the perfect accompaniment to your 5am park run or after work bar meet-ups. 

For the dial, it comes in a fabulous blue anodized titanium material, with horizontal grooves running across its face. Fitted with tooth shaped hour markers and sword shaped hands, these are filled with luminescence for optimal legibility. The seconds hand mimics the pole used by Duplantis, and therefore can be seen in neon yellow with white tip. 

This is on display clearer than Daniel Craig’s all singing all dancing Speedmaster Professional White Dial he teased to the baying crowd during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. As for complications, well, there are none. This is refreshingly laid back, negating the bustling features for simple elegance. Fitted within the timepieces beats the powerful 8928 Ti movement, providing a 72 hour power reserve alongside a 25,200VpH. This means you can get up and party like Lionel Richie…All Night Long. 

Well at least for three days anyway. 

You can buy an Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M Armand Duplantis at retail for £48,400 as of August 2024. 

 

Vacheron Constantin Métiers d'Art Tribute To Traditional Symbols - Eternal Flow 2400A/000R-H024

Brand: Vacheron Constantin / Founded: 1755 / Model: Métiers d'Art Tribute To Traditional Symbols - Eternal Flow / Reference number: 2400A/000R-H024 

Case Thickness	38mm
Material	Pink Gold
Case Diameter	9.88mm
Calibre	2460
Colour	Multicoloured

If you find yourself bored at a watch convention, try shouting “There’s a brand new Métiers d'Art model!” and watch the fans flock to your voice. Look, it's more catchy than “is there a doctor in the house”.

Here, Vacheron Constantin has saved you the hassle (and time) with their extraordinary Métiers d'Art, paying tribute to traditional symbols. In this instance, it’s emperors of the past.

Source - Vacheron Constantin

 

With a 38mm pink gold case diameter and a slim 9.88mm thickness, the watches are extremely luxurious and uber elegant to grace any catwalk…or fashion show for that matter. Back to the matter in hand and Vacheron Constantin finishes the watches with great aplomb, including polished lugs and case sides. 

This sits prettily alongside a hand-engraved bat motif delicately displayed across the bezel. Who needs the Dark Knight when you can flex this.This is because bats are, according to Chinese folklore, the bringers of good fortune. You’ll already be indebted if you can get your hands on one of these! 

However, if you are looking to sell your Rolex Batman quickly, it’s about time to contact Chrono Hunter, not Commissioner Gordon for the best possible prices, multiple offers and a quick turnaround.

As for this vivacious Vacheron, it is fitted with a cloisonné enamel dial, which the artwork bears resemblance to something out of a Frank Zappa album. We’re talking psychedelic, and truly captivating, even if you don’t yet understand the meaning behind the various colourways, tinctures and design themes. 

They relate to the hems and cuffs adorned by Ming and Quing emperors on their dragon robes. They tend to be embroidered with symbols, which Vacheron Constantin infuses via gold wiring to attain the specific shapes. Featuring a large mountain directly in the centre, there are bright blue waves bursting against the respective cliffs on the left and right. 

From the green, red and orange mountain to the blue and purple waves, this may be one of the best colourful watches to buy, not to mention one of the most creative. Time can still be read via the leaf shaped hour and minute hands in 18K gold. However, there are no hour markers to keep the dial aesthetic seamless. 

Home to the Calibre 2460, it yields a 28,800VpH (4Hz) alongside a modest 40 hour power reserve. You can view this through the sapphire caseback. Including the 22K golden oscillating rotor that’s finished with majestic waves. 

You can buy a Vacheron Constantin Métiers d'Art Tribute to traditional symbols - Eternal flow 2400A/000R-H024 at retail when you request a price as of August 2024. 

 

Tudor Black Bay Ceramic - Blue Dial

Brand: Tudor / Founded: 1926 / Model: Black Bay Ceramic / Reference number: m79210cnu-0007

Case Thickness	14.4mm
Material	Steel
Case Diameter	41mm
Calibre	ME5602-U
Colour	Blue

 

Our next best colourful watch to keep on your radar is The Tudor Black Bay Ceramic. This is a combination of Tudor’s very desirable Black Bay line, alongside their collaboration with the famed Red Bull’s second F1 team, Vias Cash App RB. 

Source - Tudor

 

Since its origination in 2012 at Baselworld, the Black Bay collection has been a continuation of the grand Tudor Oyster Prince Submariner, back in 1954. So, isn’t it kind of bizarre that this dive watch has taken on a distinctly race infused template?

Not really. 

Remember, this is the infamous line that boasts stunning GMT functionality as spotted in the Pepsi inspired Black Bay GMT to chronograph capability against a bright pink dial in the Black Bay Chrono. Enough of all this variation for a second! Let’s introduce the Black Bay Ceramic Blue Dial. 

Measuring 41mm x 14.4mm, the watches are not obnoxiously large, but do offer enough wrist presence to make these top choices for those interested in an eye grabbing timepiece.

Crafted out of carbon, this is a material rarely used by Tudor, as they are a much more conventional steel and gold type of brand. We welcome their innovation, especially since carbon is such an unorthodox material and has close links to the racing industry, due to its lightweight and durable properties. 

Fitted with a 60-minute scale on the bezel, this is still a strong, dive orientated timepiece, especially since it offers 200 metres of water resistance. For the dial, we are presented with a deep blue shade that closely matches the colour scheme of VISA Cash app RB’s livery. 

The matte shade allows the white dot and baton hour markers to be clearly displayed, alongside the Snowflake hands. All of the above are coated with Super-Luminova, offering optimal legibility at all times. 

Attached onto a black fabric strap, this Black Bay promotes comfort and easy time-reading, especially since the dial is so colourful in its rich blue shade. Beating merrily away is the Calibre ME5602-U,  this Master Chronometer certified movement, yields a 28,800VpH alongside a fantastic 70 hour power reserve. As always you are getting a lot of kit with this top Swiss brand under the bonnet.

You can buy a Tudor Black Bay Ceramic at retail for £4,420 as of August 2024. 

 

Grand Seiko Heritage Kirazuri SBGA509

Brand: Grand Seiko / Founded: 1967 / Model: Heritage Kirazuri SBGA509 / Reference number: SBGA509

Case Thickness	12.5mm
Material	Steel
Case Diameter	40mm
Calibre	9R65
Colour	Pink

If there was ever a colourful watch that summed up this Japanese giant this would be it.

The legendary Grand Seiko Heritage line seeks to encapsulate everything that has made them up to date and as ever changing as Lady Gaga. 

Source - Grand Seiko

 

From the first Grand Seiko in 1960 to the 44GS that featured their nine key principles including a mirror polished bezel and multi-faceted rectangular indexes, it stems all the way to their technical innovations. This shines a light on the legendary 9S calibre that combined a mainspring with oscillator, resulting in incredible precision and a strong power reserve.

The 9S calibre can be argued to be the platform for all Grand Seiko modern mechanical watches since its release in 1998. Boasting a rapid 36,000 frequency, this blasted well over the traditional 28,800VpH, making these watches truly powerful!

For this Heritage piece, they go for the classic Japanese inspired dial, with a high powered Spring Drive movement and sensational case material. This particular model is yet again, another beautiful rendition of Grand Seiko combating traditional Swiss iconoclasm!

Sizing up at 40mm x 12.5mm, the steel cases are beautifully well presented, including the fabulous Zaratsu polished bezel that produces a mirror effect. This works spectacularly against the brushed case sides and sharp contours that make up the entire piece. 

Yielding 100 metres of water resistance, we think this is perfect for parading in the swimming pool or when quickly sprucing up after a particularly strenuous business meeting. For time keeping, Grand Seiko ensures this is kept easy by simply referring to the faceted baton hour markers and sword shaped hands. Given luminescent centres, they are easily identifiable and can be clearly distinguished from the rest of the face. 

However, this isn’t a particularly arduous task given the creativity and colour of the dial! Inspired by the artistic process called Kirazuri, this essentially uses mica powder against woodblock prints to produce a stunning, wavy shimmer. Inspired by the sunrise over Lake Suwa, the soft pink shade is a fabulous choice for boasting the warmth of a rising Japanese sun. This is a taste of the Orient as we know it but on your wrist.

Fitted with a date aperture at 3 o’clock alongside a power reserve indicator at 7 o’clock, the watches are reliable and offer exact calculations for when you need to figure out the day, or judge whether it is fully powered up while diving in the coral reef!

Inside this colourful watch beats the Calibre 9R65. This in-house calibre utilises their very famous Spring Drive movement, providing a 72 hour power reserve alongside a precision of around +/- 15 seconds per month. 

You can buy a Grand Seiko Heritage Kirazuri SBGA509 at retail for $5,600 as of August 2024. Note, it is currently only available via US retailers and the Grand Seiko Boutique Online, but keep an eye out on the secondary market for the best deals…or speak to us!

 

Chopard L.U.C XPS Forest Green

Brand: Chopard / Founded: 1860 / Model: L.U.C XPS Forest Green / Reference number: 168629-3001

Case Thickness	7.20mm
Material	Steel
Case Diameter	40mm
Calibre	96.12-L
Colour	Green

What's that lurking in the woods?!

Watches and Wonders 2024 allowed Chopard to flex a little more than usual. Then again, this applies to all brands, including Rolex’s fresh 1908 Platinum or Vacheron Constantin’s Berkeley Grand Complication, the most complicated watch in the world with 57 complications. 

Source - Chopard

 

However, dress watch fanatics were far more concerned with Chopard’s latest release, the fabulous L.U.C XPS Forest Green. 

Totalling 40mm x 7.20mm, Chopard capably combats the quite large 40mm diameter (for a dress piece!) with a very slender thickness. The steel case option is given a polished bezel along with the lugs and case sides. After all, nothing says dress watches quite like a polished exterior. 

And this isn’t just any form of steel either. It is Chopard’s very own Lucent steel, completely trademarked and made up of recycled steel to produce a higher strength and scratch resistance rating. What next, a novelty with recycled Nespresso coffee capsules? Fitted with a sapphire crystal across the top, this allows users a clear view into the dial. 

Fitted with a brass dial encapsulated with a rich forest green shade, they are enhanced with a sunburst satin-brushed finish. As a result, it allows the printed white minute track and concentric ring aesthetic to be clearly displayed. The hour markers are on show thanks to thicker, baton markers and rhodium-plated Dauphine hands. 

At 6 o’clock, there is a small seconds counter that allows for the timekeeping to be divided up by including a smaller seconds hand, as opposed to a larger one in the centre. Inside, you will find the 96.12-L, viewable through the sapphire caseback, housing the 22K gold micro-rotor. 

Made up of 172 components the movements are fitted with Chopards patented Twin technology for a strong 65 hour power reserve, hacking seconds and strong 28,800VpH. 

You can buy a Chopard L.U.C XPS Forest Green at retail for £10,700 as of August 2024. 

 

Longines Conquest Pastel Blue 34mm 

Brand: Longines / Founded: 1867 / Model: Conquest Pastel Blue / Reference number: L3.430.4.92.9

Case Thickness	10.90mm
Material	Steel
Case Diameter	34mm
Calibre	L888
Colour	Blue

Originally released in 1954, the Longines Conquest line delivered major selling points being both waterproof and automatic. 

Over the years, the watches have continued to evolve, including in 2024, the Conquest Heritage Central Power Reserve, released to celebrate 70 years of the line, incorporating two rotating central discs to read the time. 

Source - Longines

 

However, the latest Longines Conquest 34mm Pastel Blue could be considered the best colourful watch variation from the line to date!

Sized at a very slender 34mm x 10.90mm, there is 100 metres of water resistance, allowing them to be durable when hitting the waves, but not the best choice for scuba diving. Crafted out of steel, it is combined with a polished bezel and lugs, alongside a screw-back caseback with sapphire crystal in its centre. 

Who wouldn’t want to see what makes this little beauty tick?

There is another sapphire crystal running across the top which allows a fantastic view-in to the dial. Given a snailed, pastel blue sunray finished dial, light can capably allow every facet of the dial to be boasted, whether in the office, on the red carpet at the Emmys, Golden Globes or under the sun-kissed Bahama rays. 

Time is easily read via the applied rhodium-plated hour markers with silvered polished hands. These are filled with Super-Luminova to ensure maximum legibility. Don’t forget the tidy date aperture at 6 o’clock that allows for an added level of complexity!

Within the timepieces is the automatic L888. This mechanical movement produces a steady 25,200VpH alongside a weekend-proof 72 hour power reserve, alongside functions that run the hours, minutes, seconds and the date. Affixed onto a steel strap, the watches are the perfect addition to any man looking for a diverse dressy model to add to his portfolio. 

You can buy a Longines Conquest 34mm Pastel Blue at retail for £1,900 as of August 2024. 

 

Blancpain Tourbillon Carrousel 2322 3653 55B

Brand: Blancpain / Founded: 1735 / Model: Tourbillon Carrousel 2322 3653 55B / Reference number: 2322 3653 55B

Case Thickness	11.94mm
Material	Red gold
Case Diameter	44.6mm
Calibre	2322
Colour	Green

This is not a case of going round the mulberry bush for our next best colourful watch. 

Do away with your Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Olive dial, and get your hands on a sublime Blancpain Tourbillon Carrousel (2322 3653 55B.) 

Source - Blancpain

 

However, do not expect this to be a utility piece. This may not have the same luminescent prowess of the unreleased IWC Pilot Watch Chronograph 41mm Ceralume, spotted on the wrist of IWC ambassador Lewis Hamilton at F1’s Monaco Grand Prix. Nevertheless, it’s infinitely more fashionable and timeless. 

At 44.6mm x 11.94mm, they are exceptionally well presented in their red gold case. Given a fabulous polished finish across the bezel and the lugs, we think this is a fantastic dress piece… but not the type you can hide under your shirt cuff. This is definitely a statement piece for the boardroom or your father-in-law's milestone birthday. Dress to impress, Timelords!

Given an unorthodox crown positioning at 4 o’clock, the watches are not your run-of-the-mill numbers. It may be best using this as a special occasions timepiece, especially since its 30 metres of water resistance can only be used for a light sprinkle. 

For the dial, this comes in a rich green shade and is finalised with a sunburst finish. This allows light to be cast throughout the face, enhancing various elements of the dial, including the hour markers and other design codes we’ll cover shortly.

The markers are read via Roman numerals in rose gold, making them clearly stand from the green dial, just like the leaf shaped hands. The combination of a tourbillon at 12 o’clock and a carousel at 6 o’clock is a world first, ensuring that gravity will have no effect on the movement. Just tell that to John Mayer.

The added date sub-dial at 3 o’clock is designed in such a way as to not infringe with the rest of the face, while the tourbillon and carousel remain the centres of attention. Within the pieces is the 2322 calibre, an in-house movement that has a 21,600VpH alongside an astonishing 168 hour power reserve. 

You can buy a Blancpain Tourbillon Carrousel 2322 3653 55B at retail for £333,400 as of August 2024. 

 

Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5236P-010 Salmon

Brand: Patek Philippe / Founded: 1839 / Model: Grand Complications 5236P-010 Salmon / Reference number: 5236P

Case Thickness	11.07mm
Material	Platinum
Case Diameter	41.3mm
Calibre	31-260 PS QL
Colour	Salmon

You knew we had to pull out the big guns in our roundup of the best colourful watches didn’t you? And like Avril Lavigne, why did we have to go and make things so complicated? We’ll tell you right now.

Patek Philippe released the 5236P-010 at Watches and Wonders 2024, wherein it has since become as big as an alleged reunion of Grammy winners, Oasis (now confirmed!)

Source - Patek Philippe

 

But unlike the Likely Lads, there will be no arguments among horophiles about the attractiveness and beauty behind the Patek Philippe 5236P-010 Salmon. Originally released in 2021, the Patek Philippe 5236P reference represented a fresh dial configuration, totalling a date line under 12 o’clock and a moon-phase indicator at 6 o’clock. 

Coming in at 41.3mm x 11.07mm, the Patek Philippe Grand Complications are crafted out of 950 platinum. This material is extremely luxurious, especially since they opt for a polished finish across the bezel, lugs and the case sides. The 30 metres of water resistance isn’t great, but it doesn't mean that you have to keep this locked in a safe either. 

The fantastic salmon dial shade is a stunning aesthetic, allowing this to become modernised and perfect for wearing to the bar, or when clenching that big deal. Made up of blackened baton hour markers and a black railroad track, they clearly stand out from the salmon shade. 

In terms of complexity, users have a strong selection of fantastic complications, including a moon-phase and small seconds indicator at 6 o’clock. This sits proudly alongside a day and night indicator between 7 and 8 o’clock with a leap year indicator at 4 o’clock. 

There is also the iconic day, date and month indicator line below 12 o’clock with a white background that stands out from the salmon colouring. So, what ensures the reliability of these complications? The 31-260 PS QL calibre. This produces a phenomenal 28,800VpH frequency alongside a solid 48 hour power reserve within its 503 component build. Catch of the day, this certainly is

You can buy a Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5236P-010 Salmon at retail for £121,100 as of August 2024. 

 

Conclusion

Well timelords, we’ve reached the end of the figurative rainbow. Colourful men’s watches are not just a passing trend. You can expect the popularity to rise and soar alongside the price. It seems that all the key Swiss manufacturers are battling it out for who will be victorious in the best rainbow watch stakes.

If ‘Holy Trinity’ members Vacheron Constantin, Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe are getting in on the act, then you know the trend is serious enough to warrant your attention. 

 

Other manufacturers such as Chopard, Zenith and Hublot are similarly pushing boundaries, creating new spaces for the timepiece world. While I can't say that if you buy a watch like this you will get a pot of gold, I can honestly say that you’ll be immensely satisfied with your purchase.

Can't wait to taste the rainbow? Don't want to miss out on the movement? Why not discuss your next purchase with Chrono Hunter here.

If you intend to buy a Rolex or buy a Patek Phillipe, take a look at our sterling reviews on Trustpilot and see why we are the number one choice to buy and sell your watch. 

Discover, hunt, buy, sell

 

Further Reading: 

Newswatch: Bvlgari Launches Serpenti Seduttori And Serpenti Tubogas Infinity, Tag Heuer Unveils 60th Anniversary Limited Edition Carrera Chronograph, Zenith’s Defy Skyline Skeleton, Tag Heuer Monza Makes A Comeback.

Rolex Daytona Waitlist 2023 - Why is There a Minimum 5 Year Wait

 

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