Watch Trends to Look Out For in 2024

The year 2023 set the stage for unprecedented shifts and remarkable milestones in the watch industry. As we enter 2024, professionals in the jewellery and watch sectors are eager to explore the upcoming trends that will captivate the discerning tastes of collectors, enthusiasts, and industry experts alike. 

Remember the days when a sleek, sophisticated timepiece was an essential part of a man's attire? In 2024, expect to see a throwback to a classic era as dress watches reclaim their rightful place as symbols of elegance and refinement.

By the end of 2023, dress watches experienced a notable renaissance—a trend expected to continue this year. Additionally, Forbes observed a growing shift away from popular sports watches, with collectors’ focus veering more towards timepieces embodying traditional vintage elegance.

Prepare for a visual feast as colourful dials make a resurgence in the market. Esquire highlights how 2023 proved to be a strong year for the trend of coloured watches, with notable contributions from industry giants such as Rolex, TAG Heuer, and Hermes.

Given the diverse range of hues circulating in the global watch market—from stark blues to flaming reds, vibrant yellows to stunning rose gold—these colourful timepieces not only serve as statement pieces but also offer a perfect way for wearers to express their individual style. This poses a chance for watchmakers to push the boundaries of traditional design and create pieces that are as unique as the wearer themselves.

Vogue predicts the resurgence of jewellery watches in 2024, signalling a captivating blend of craftsmanship, originality, and the perfect touch of extravagance. Expect an influx of timepieces that go beyond functionality, serving as exquisite pieces of wearable art. And this applies to items for both men and women—such as bangle watches, pendant watches, celebrity watches, and the rising hype of engagement watches as a gift for grooms-to-be. 

Image source: Swatch

2023 was a strong year for team-ups between popular timepiece brands. One of the most remarkable collaborations was the Omega x Swatch MoonSwatch—a playful reimagining of the iconic Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch. This unexpected pairing between a luxury Swiss watchmaker and a more accessible brand sent shockwaves through the industry, resonating with both avid collectors and casual watch enthusiasts alike. 

Looking ahead to 2024, it's clear that the trend of collaboration will continue to gain momentum. Swatch, in particular, stands out as a key player. Just this month, the brand launched Ocean of Storms New Moon Edition, a piece created in partnership with another Swiss luxury manufacturer, Blancpain.