Celebrating a momentous occasion with a new watch is made even better when you can share the excitement as a couple. Timepieces are an extension of yourself, and embody the love that you share with your partner, making an excellent gift to mark a special moment like an anniversary.
The origins of watches trace back to the 16th century, when the first portable timepieces began to emerge in Europe. Initially regarded as novelties for the elite, early timepieces were worn as pendants and valued more for their craftsmanship than their accuracy.
Related: The History of TUDOR
Over time, innovation in horology transformed these intricate objects into essential personal items. As watches evolved, they came to symbolise not only technological progress but also personal style, identity, and sentiment. Timepieces are a tradition that continues today, especially in the context of gifting and couples’ watches.
From the Pocket Watch to The Wrist Watch
Men’s watches have a rich and dignified heritage. Prior to the 20th century, timepieces for men were primarily pocket watches were grand, weighty instruments often carried on a chain and tucked into a waistcoat. These timepieces were not only practical but also emblematic of status and refinement.
The shift to wristwatches began in earnest during World War I, when soldiers needed a more convenient way to tell time during combat. What started as a utilitarian adjustment soon became a fashion movement, with wristwatches becoming synonymous with masculinity, discipline, and precision. Today, men’s watches continue to blend heritage with innovation, combining mechanical mastery with elegant design.
Related: The History of Patek Philippe
Ladies Watches: From Jewellery to Timekeeping
Women’s wristwatches also boast a fascinating journey. While early versions were often viewed more as decorative jewellery than functional tools, they played a significant role in the evolution of fashion and style. In the 19th century, watches for women were frequently encrusted with gemstones and worn as delicate bracelets.
As time progressed, watchmakers began to marry aesthetics with engineering, producing refined timepieces that honoured both beauty and precision. Modern women’s watches strike a fine balance between elegance, versatility and increasingly innovative, reflecting the growing appreciation for horological craftsmanship among female enthusiasts.
Sharing Time with Your Partner
The tradition of gifting watches dates back centuries and has always carried a sense of meaning beyond mere functionality. In the 18th and 19th centuries, timepieces were often given to mark important life events like graduations, retirements, or weddings. Symbolising a wish for longevity, success, and remembrance. As timepieces became more accessible and stylistically diverse, they evolved into personal tokens of love and appreciation, with many couples gifting watches for one another, and even buying matching couples watches to share their love.
Napoleon Bonaparte
One notable historical example is famous general, Napoleon Bonaparte, who famously gifted many timepieces to the love of his life, Empress Joséphine.
Notably, Bonaparte gifted a finely crafted Breguet watch to his wife, the same watchmaker he wore every day. It was also said that amongst the timepieces, he gifted a heart-shaped watch.
The gifts were not just luxurious but deeply personal, symbolising his affection and the value he placed on their time together. This act helped cement the association between watches and romantic devotion.
Today, gifting a timepiece is a sentiment that continues to resonate in modern gifting traditions.
Finding the Perfect Couples Watch for You and Your Partner
If you are looking to celebrate a special moment, or simply would like to invest in luxury items together, a watch is a beautiful way to commemorate your relationship and mark your commitment to one another.
Before you begin your couples timepiece journey, it is good to get an idea of which sizes and styles of watch you both may like. Ensure you both measure your wrists, noting down the size. Your case size will determine how your timepiece will look on your wrist, and may also affect how comfortably your watch sits. 28mm is the preferred choice for ladies, and 41mm for men, but case diameter sizes can range from 28mm - 44mm.
To help you decide on whether you would like to invest together, we have listed a few of our choices for timepieces that pair perfectly together, so you and your partner can wear to match everyday.
The Contemporary Couple
The contemporary couple would enjoy this modern inspired look from TUDOR. Known for their impressive designs and rich heritage, TUDOR continue to lead a path for couples timepieces with collections like Royal. The Royal Collection features many watches in multiple cases sizes, making it an excellent choice for his and her timepieces.
Some key features of the Royal M28600-0005 and Royal M28500-0005 that make them ideal couples watches include the striking blue sun-ray finish dial display with applied Roman numerals. The polished steel bracelet of these timepieces also provide a sophisticated look for both men and women.
Featuring both 41mm and 38mm cases, these TUDOR timepiece's are perfect for couples that like to add a subtle colour into their everyday, with a sleek and modern look.
The Traditional Couple
Tissot’s Le Locle 20th Anniversary edition makes an ideal gift for both him and her. The beautiful stainless steel case comes in both 29mm and 39.9mm, ensuring a good size for both men and women. The matching pair also features elegant tomes of blue Roman indices and leaf hands gracing a silver dial. Adding to the feminine aesthetic of the 29mm, the dial also features eight precious diamonds to indicate the hour markers.
Inspired by Tissot’s hometown, Le Locle, this watch pays homage to the town's emblematic church clock tower with an adorned Clous de Paris pattern. A sophisticated blend between traditionality and modernity.
The 'Opposites attract' couple
Swiss-watchmaker, TAG Heuer, also offers some exquisite designs for both him and her. For those with different tastes, the TAG Carrera Chronograph Calibre TH200-00 complements the Carrera Date Calibre 7.
Though these two watches are aesthetically different, the subtle hue of the smokey purple brushed dial featuring on the Carrera Chronograph Calibre TH200-00 is a masculine take on the Carrera Date Calibre 7’s pink snail-brushed dial.
The Carrera Chronograph Calibre TH200-00 features a black perforated, purple-lined calf skin leather strap, offering a modern and sleek look and compliments the dial. The Carrera Date Calibre 7 sits on an elegant stainless steel strap, perfect for those looking for an elegant addition to their look.
Find your perfect pairing at Michael Spiers
Finding the perfect couples watch for you and your partner can take time. Discovering your matching styles, unique tastes and timepieces that will suit your individual everyday is important, so be sure to get in touch with one of our friendly experts in our showrooms in the South West to discuss your timepiece desires.
If you would like to discover more about the perfect couples watches we have, we invite you to our showrooms in Truro, Pymouth, Exeter and Taunton where our friendly teams can help you find a piece that is perfect for you.
