Entering the workforce is an important and exciting stage in life. Becoming a young professional often requires you to change your place of residence, your daily routine, and your social environs. What better way to mark such a pivotal point in your life than buying a watch to accompany you in your professional and personal development? Depending on your chosen career, a watch could be an essential part of your attire. It could alternatively be a discreet and understated addition to your work life. From customer acquisition, small talk with colleagues, or networking with clients, the right watch can be a door opener or closer. In this article, we’re presenting six watches for young professionals and telling you what you need to know before you buy. We’ve sorted our recommendations by industry for clarity. Of course, this list is neither exhaustive nor dogmatic, but by relying on some stereotypes, we’re able to ascertain which watch might suit which profession.
Finance, Sales, Business, and Marketing
Rolex Datejust Ref. 16014
If there’s one watch that can undoubtedly be found in the boardrooms of the world’s largest financial institutions, it’s the Rolex Day-Date. Synonymous with success, power, and influence, this solid gold masterpiece isn’t nicknamed “the president watch” for no reason. As a young professional, however, it might be worth digging a little deeper to get the best bang for your buck. The Rolex Datejust, for example, would make an excellent choice. This classic dress watch has a cosmopolitan charm and suits anyone who values quality, tradition, and style. If you opt for a vintage model, such as a ref. 16014 from the 1990s, it will further emphasize your appreciation of tradition and classic design. Plus, wearing a vintage watch showcases your willingness to look at things in more depth and not take the most obvious route. The 36-mm case, which is standard on most vintage models, combined with the comfortable Jubilee bracelet, ensures a high level of wearing comfort and a complementary addition to any suit, polo shirt, or even streetwear look. Vintage versions of the Rolex Datejust ref. 16014 start at around $4,500.
Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Ref. 310.30.42.50.01.001
A contrasting alternative to the Rolex Datejust is a modern variant of the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch. The combination of a stainless steel case and black dial is timeless and it’s claim as the first watch on the Moon is not to be overlooked. The Speedmaster suits those with an active, adventurous personality who not only enjoy taking on challenges, but also master them with flying colors. Speedmaster wearers could be characterized as curious, tech-savvy, and inquisitive individuals. Unlike Rolex, Omega’s prestige is based less on desirability, (lack of) availability, and price than on history, technical superiority, and sophistication. Thanks to its countless band variants (leather, steel, textile), the Omega Speedmaster is a very versatile watch in terms of style and attire. Dress shirt, T-shirt, suit, denim jacket – anything goes. The Omega also boasts the in-house, Co-Axial 3861 caliber and high resistance to magnetic fields with state-of-the-art technology and a robust build. Thus, the Speedmaster not only makes a perfect everyday watch, but also a reliable companion for business trips. Pre-owned Omega Speedmasters from the current line can be found on Chrono24 from around $7,000.
Tech, E-Commerce, Media, and Journalism
Nomos Club Campus Ref. 735
Although the these industries don’t represent a homogeneous group, people who have opted for a job in one of these industries likely have a certain degree of communication skills, creativity, and curiosity for history and society. A certain affinity for modern media is probably also on the table. An entry-level watch model that reflects these characteristics is the NOMOS Club Campus. Watches from NOMOS are often cited by experts and enthusiasts as having the best value for money between $1,000 and $2,000. Given their in-house movements, which can often be admired through the case back, you can rest assured NOMOS does not compromise on quality. The Alpha caliber used in the Club Campus is impressive with its low profile, swing system, and water resistance. The German manufacturer has a relatively short history and is known for its modern, Bauhaus-inspired designs. In a global workplace surrounded by creative people interested in history, technology, and design, a NOMOS Club Campus would be just the thing. The style-conscious among us will also enjoy mixing and matching different dial colors, suede straps, and sizes (36 mm or 38.5 mm), depending on the prevailing fashion trends. All in all, NOMOS offers an open-minded and sleek brand image that perfectly embodies modern luxury. Numerous Club Campus models are available for around the $1,000 mark.
Grand Seiko Ref. SBGW283
The Grand Seiko ref. SBGW283 is another exciting option for a range of young professionals, as it requires very little specialist knowledge to get your hands on. However, it is worth taking a closer look at the Japanese art of watchmaking (i.e., Spring Drive technology, Zaratsu finishing, and much more), as well as the design elements inspired by nature. Wearing a Grand Seiko outs you as a watch connoisseur. It would thus be prudent to familiarize yourself with the material at hand, rather than just purchasing the watch for prestige and status. After all, you’re a young creative who pays attention to the world around you. Grand Seiko is committed to the principles of Japanese minimalism, attaining the highest levels of precision, and adhering to top quality standards. This perfectionism could well rub off on you. In terms of versatility, the Grand Seiko ref. SBGW283 is well-equipped for many occasions with its flat 37-mm stainless steel case, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and power reserve of 72 hours. However, you’ll need to find an alternative for your swim or gym session after work. This model can be found pre-owned on Chrono24 for under $4,500.
Arts, Fitness, and Gastronomy
Tudor Pelagos 39 Ref.M25407N-0001
An active working day is what unites these diverse sectors. With that in mind, entry-level watches for young professionals working in these areas must meet certain requirements: For starters, it needs to be a robust watch that is adaptable and flexible – something like the Tudor Pelagos 39. With its 39-mm case, this timepiece goes just as well with sporty jogging attire as it does with jeans and work clothes. The Pelagos also looks smart with a casual after-work T-shirt and slacks. The adjustable rubber strap or titanium bracelet makes the watch comfortable and easy to wear, even in hot or wet conditions. The rubber feels great on the skin, especially in summer. By adding a Tudor to your portfolio, you’re choosing a very popular and likeable brand. It’s highly unlikely that you’ll receive raised eyebrows with this watch on your wrist. On the contrary, it will likely spark a conversation with other young and open-minded watch fans. Tudor is considered the modern champion when it comes to value for money, and also has a little rebellious streak – at least compared to Rolex and the like. Even so, the brand still stands for ambition and success. The latter is readily associated with big sibling Rolex, but the reputation also rubs off on Tudor, albeit with a certain casual touch. The combination of brand strength and practicality makes the Tudor Pelagos an ideal choice for young professionals starting off in the world of watches. There are numerous entry-level listings for this watch for less than $4,500 on Chrono24.
Longines Hydroconquest Ref. L3.781.4.56.9
The final watch on our list is a diver from Longines. The HydroConquest is a bestseller from the Longines portfolio and, at 41 mm, is also a robust timepiece in terms of size. Apart from the dimensions, the overall design is kept quite simple. It combines sporty elegance with high functionality and is ideal for divers and watch enthusiasts who are looking for a reliable and stylish timepiece. The HydroConquest is waterproof to 300 m (30 bar, 984 ft), making it ideal for demanding water sports. The classic black dial is characterized by large, luminous hands and indices that guarantee excellent readability in all lighting conditions. The rotating bezel with a ceramic insert is scratch-resistant and ensures precise time measurement underwater. The automatic caliber L888 provides precise timekeeping and a power reserve of 72 hours. The look is rounded off by a robust stainless steel bracelet with a folding clasp that offers both comfort and security. The Longines Hydroconquest can be found on Chrono24 from various sellers for just over $2,000.
