KEEPING TRACK OF TIME

IN LIGHT OF THE RISING DISCUSSION ABOUT HOW MEN WEARING WOMEN'S WATCHES IS GROUNDBREAKING, LET ME TELL YOU EXACTLY WHY IT ISN'T.

- KELLY LEWI

THE HERMÉS BIRKIN is to a woman what the Rolex Daytona is to a man, according to my colleagues. I sprang the question when I was drafting this story, partially out of curiosity, wondering what men think is the equivalent of "I have made it" in a language I understand. It was rather amusing to pick up on the gears in their heads turning as they discussed the various watches they think hold the Birkin's fame and legacy. Ultimately, I take their word for it. They are the men, after all. Men with watches. Men who appreciate watches. Men who know watches.

I have long pondered the topic of men and their watches. No other accessory in the fashion sphere has a chokehold as strong as watches do on men (except perhaps for a gold chain). I figured it must have been a combination of two magnets: functionality and aesthetics. Whether it's timeless collections such as Rolex timepieces or contemporary sporty models like Franck Muller's, the masculine edge adds a certain charm and personality to a man's wrist without seeming too dressed up.

At the very least, a wristwatch tells the time.

One can get away by saying he wears a watch purely because he has to be on time at all times, so he might as well choose one that looks mighty fine.

Over time, watches have also evolved into possessions with a greater societal value. They become aspirational symbols of status beyond wealth. They are a sign of a man with knowledge; a man with taste.

One of my favourite ways to ease myself into a conversation with a stranger is to compliment their watch. "I love your watch. What is it?" Most of the time, if not always, a man will begin to explain every little detail about his watch. What brand it is, what type it is, the movement and the dial - everything is worth the time to talk about it. Having a passion for good stories, I am always ready to listen.