Time for Summer

As another season of sun beckons, here is the top picks for a horological companion this summer across different water resistance levels and occasions.

- Asaph Low & Ben Kwok

CARTIER PRIVÉ TORTUE WATCH

Each year, Cartier’s Privé collection is one that the horological world eagerly anticipates — the maison unveils a limited-release revival of some of its most iconic designs across the previous century annually, such as the cult-favourite Cartier Crash and Cartier Tank Cintrée. This year’s Cartier Privé collection re-release takes the form of the refreshed Cartier Tortue Watch. As its name suggests, the watch derives its case shape from that of a turtle (“tortue” is French for turtle) and is the third wristwatch after the Santos-Dumont and Tonneau that Louis Cartier designed in 1912. Given the timepiece is more horological work of art than tool watch, it is definitely not meant for a dip in the pool — one imagines it would look better on the wrist while dining by the seaside on the French Riviera.

PATEK PHILIPPE NAUTILUS

Following the success of the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Luce Annual Calendar ref. 5261R-001 last year, Patek Philippe made the sensible choice of marrying one of its most iconic silhouettes and historically significant movements in the Patek Philippe Nautilus ref. 5980, with the same unique, visually appealing blue-grey hue that graced last year’s release. With a 30m water-resistant brushed, white gold case juxtaposed against a denim patterned calfskin strap, the 2024 iteration of the Patek Philippe Nautilus ref. 5980 can be dressed up — adding a youthful texture to a more formal outfit or worn casually, matched with a T-shirt and a pair of jeans. In other words, it is a versatile watch for any summer occasion.

JAEGER-LECOULTRE POLARIS PERPETUAL CALENDAR