Because of its simple appearance, Quiet Luxury watches can match any outfit. While this logic isn't entirely wrong, more accurately, the essential conditions are "simplicity and high quality." It is precisely because it perfectly fulfills both of these conditions that it can be a highly practical watch for discerning adults.
[An Introduction to Quiet Watches] "Quiet luxury is the ultimate form of self-satisfaction."
FEATURESTomoshige Kase: Text
Hidetoshi Nakato: Styling
Hideki Asahina: Model
Kana Imai: Hair and Makeup
Abe Takeshi: Planning cooperation
Edited by Hiroyuki Suzuki
[Article published in the July 2024 issue of Kronos Japan]
Quiet luxury with ultimate practicality; its simplicity makes it easy to match with anything.
The unique oval-shaped case is designed based on the golden ratio. While the current model is slightly wider, the basic proportions remain unchanged from the first model in 1968. Automatic movement (Cal. 240). 27 jewels. 21,600 vibrations/hour. Power reserve approximately 48 hours. 18K rose gold case (39.5mm vertical, 34.5mm horizontal). 3 ATM water resistance. (Inquiries) Patek Philippe Japan Information Center Tel. 03-3255-8109
(Left) Audemars Piguet "CODE 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Automatic"
The design of the mid-case, inheriting the brand's DNA, is expressed within a simple round case. The distinctive signature guilloché dial, introduced in 2023, is colored in "Night Blue, Cloud 50," the same color as the original Royal Oak. Automatic movement (Cal. 4302). 32 jewels. 28,800 vibrations/hour. Power reserve of approximately 70 hours. 18K rose gold case (41mm diameter, 10.7mm thickness). 30m water resistance. (Inquiries) Audemars Piguet Japan Tel. 03-6830-0000
Most watches on the market are, to begin with, practical tools. It's not that difficult to find one that's accurate enough, has excellent legibility and durability, and a great design. So why do we particularly emphasize "quiet luxury" as being "ultra-practical"? Because when you consider a watch as an item in your outfit, we believe this category is the best match for adult attire.
The deep blue sunray dial, which creates a complementary color relationship with the fully polished gold case, is enhanced with a delicate smoky tone gradation. The slim proportions are achieved by thinning the middle case. Automatic movement (Cal. 925). 30 jewels. 28,800 vibrations/hour. Power reserve of approximately 70 hours. 18K rose gold case (diameter 39mm, thickness 9.3mm). 5 ATM water resistance. (Inquiries) Jaeger-LeCoultre Tel. 0120-79-1833
(Left) Grand Seiko "Heritage Collection 45GS Reissue Design Limited Edition SLGW005"
This year's newly announced hand-wound high-beat movement is housed in a case that is a复刻 (reproduction) of its roots, the "45GS." The case shape is tapered towards the sides, and the wider surfaces are finished with Zaratsu polishing. Hand-wound (Cal.9SA4). 47 jewels. 36,000 vibrations/hour. Power reserve of approximately 80 hours. Stainless steel case (diameter 38.8mm, thickness 10.4mm). Water resistant for daily use. Limited edition of 1200 pieces worldwide. (Inquiries) Seiko Watch Customer Service (Grand Seiko) Tel. 0120-302-617
So, what exactly constitutes adult attire? In modern times, it's not about being fully armed with well-known luxury brands, nor is it about dressing up in a bespoke suit—in short, it's "high-quality casual wear." For example, a suede blouson that combines light comfort with a rich texture. A cashmere sweater with an unpretentious design like a sweatshirt hoodie. Slacks that aren't restrictive but have a neat, pressed line. Quiet Luxury watches are the perfect choice for adults who can effortlessly wear such refined items (which is actually quite difficult).
Let's get into something a little more specific. For example, take a look at the outfit of the model in the photo below. She's wearing a luxurious down-filled blouson with a cashmere flannel body and cashmere knit sleeves. Her bottoms are beautifully draped wool slacks. The question is, what kind of watch would you pair with this elegant outfit?
Let's say you wear a luxury sports watch you already own (of course, this is just your imagination). It's not that it doesn't suit you, but it might look a bit too bulky for your outfit. What about a simple antique two-hand watch? That's not bad either, but it might come across as a little too picky. You'd want something with a bit more volume. Now, let's change the subject and see what about a pop-designed toy watch or a tough outdoor watch... Those don't seem like a good fit either. But as you can see in the photo, the Audemars Piguet "CODE 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Automatic" works well with this outfit. Let me give you a few reasons why.
To put it bluntly, the first thing is that the class of the clothes and the watch match. The combination of luxury materials such as cashmere, down, and wool with a gold case intuitively creates a good balance. Pink gold, in particular, gives off a modern vibe and seems to be in vogue right now. The color combination is also good. The dark navy dial and strap stand out beautifully against the off-white and gray outfit. The reverse is also true regarding color combinations; a white dial goes well with dark-toned clothes like those in the photo below. However, the strap should be a subdued color such as black or brown, rather than white or a flashy color. I would add that not being too flashy is also a key to quality. In that sense, a case size of around 40mm would be a practical choice.
If you've ever felt that your watch just doesn't match your outfit, then you should try one of the quiet luxury pieces featured in this article. They won't clash with your outfit, but will add just the right accent to your look, creating that perfect finishing touch that gives you a sophisticated, grown-up vibe. Give them a try!
A substantial dial with a small seconds subdial and power reserve indicator positioned low on the waist. The cylinder case, typical of German watchmaking, has a simple design, but the beveled edges of the lugs add a rich character. Manual winding (Cal. L051.2). 29 jewels. 21,600 vibrations/hour. Power reserve approximately 72 hours. 18K rose gold case (39mm diameter, 8.7mm thickness). 3 ATM water resistance. (Inquiries) A. Lange & Söhne Tel. 0120-23-1845
(Left) Vacheron Constantin "Patrimony Manual Winding"
A new addition to the collection is a smaller 39mm case. Classic details such as the wedge-shaped applied dial that follows the curvature of the domed dial and the pearl-dot minute markers are present, but the light blue strap adds a modern twist. Manual winding (Cal. 1440). 19 jewels. 28,800 vibrations/hour. Power reserve approximately 42 hours. 18K rose gold case (39mm diameter, 7.7mm thickness). 3 ATM water resistance. (Inquiries) Vacheron Constantin Tel. 0120-63-1755
