Winter brings more than just shorter days and colder nights - it reshapes how we dress, from heavy coats to rugged boots, and even the accessories we choose to wear. Watches, though small, play a surprisingly important role in this seasonal shift. The challenges of snow, sleet, low light, and freezing temperatures can test even the most finely crafted timepieces. A true winter watch needs to be more than stylish; it must be resilient, versatile, and practical, capable of handling the elements while still looking refined
From Rolex’s tool-watch icons to Patek Philippe’s sport-luxury staples, here’s a guide to the best winter watches for men, featuring some of the most prestigious names in watchmaking.
Before diving into brand specifics, it’s worth understanding what separates a winter-ready timepiece from the rest:
Water resistance: Snow and slush quickly turn to water. A watch rated to at least 100 meters (and preferably more) is a wise choice.
Durable materials: Stainless steel, ceramic, and sapphire crystals handle cold and moisture better than untreated metals or fragile finishes.
Legibility: It's all about the Lume. Luminous hands, bold markers and anti-reflective coatings are invaluable on dark mornings or in the glare of fresh snow.
Bracelet and strap options: Rubber bracelets or steel perform best in cold and wet conditions. Leather, while elegant, stiffens in the cold and dislikes moisture.
Movement resilience: Well-sealed, shock-protected calibers keep ticking even in freezing conditions.
Few watchmakers are as synonymous with reliability as Rolex. The brand’s Oystersteel cases, screw-down crowns and high water-resistance make them natural winter companions.
Rolex Submariner: 300 metres of water resistance, robust build and brilliant lume make this a perfect snow-day tool.
Sea-Dweller & Deepsea: Designed for saturation diving, but equally at home in icy, slushy conditions.
Explorer II: Originally built for spelunkers, its 24-hour display and rugged design suit alpine adventurers.
Datejust in steel with a white dial: For something more elegant, a light-dial Datejust captures the crisp look of winter while maintaining everyday toughness.
Winter tip: Swap leather straps for steel or Oysterflex rubber when the forecast looks snowy.
Audemars Piguet. may be best known for the Royal Oak, but the brand’s sportier offerings shine brightest in winter, where performance and style truly intersect.
Royal Oak Offshore Larger, bolder, and built for tougher environments, the Royal Oak Offshore with impressive water resistance and versatile rubber strap options ideal for snowy conditions.
Royal Oak in steel: The classic design remains surprisingly resilient for a luxury piece, with enough durability for reliable daily winter wear and seasonal travel.
For those who want their watch to match the glitter of fresh snow, AP even produces diamond-set ‘snow-set’ editions - though these are designed more for elegance and sparkle than for snowboarding adventures.
Cartier might not be the first name you think of for winter durability, but its steel sport models are more versatile than you’d expect, balancing sophistication with everyday practicality.
Cartier Santos: Originally designed for aviation, today’s Santos models feature sporty steel cases and bracelets that handle winter conditions well while still looking refined.
Cartier Tank on steel bracelet: Slim, chic, and timeless, it can be worn comfortably under a winter coat in more formal or business settings without compromise.
Note: Cartier watches lean toward elegance rather than extreme durability, so reserve them for city streets, festive gatherings, or smart evenings rather than ski slopes or rugged adventures.
Patek Philippe is often associated with refined dress watches, but its sport-luxury lines are particularly well suited to the colder months, offering a balance of elegance and resilience.
Aquanaut: With its comfortable rubber strap, contemporary design, and robust water resistance, the Aquanaut stands out as one of the brand’s most practical and versatile winter options, whether you’re navigating icy streets or escaping to a ski resort.
Nautilus: The steel bracelet, sleek case, and sporty spirit make the Nautilus equally at home at après-ski gatherings or during important business meetings, proving that luxury can be both stylish and functional in winter.
A Calatrava might be perfect by the fireside with a glass of wine, but when it comes to braving snow, slush, and unpredictable weather, it’s wiser to lean on Patek’s more robust and sportier creations
Jaeger-LeCoultre offers both refined dress pieces and capable sports watches. For winter, look to the latter.
Polaris Date: Steel case, strong water resistance, and availability on a rubber strap make this an ideal cold-weather companion, able to withstand snow, rain, and brisk outdoor conditions.
Reverso: The swivelling case protects the dial - handy when skiing, ice skating, or engaging in other winter sports. Its Art Deco charm ensures style isn’t sacrificed for practicality.
Master Ultra Thin Moon: Perfect for winter formal wear, though better reserved for indoor events, pairing seamlessly with tailored suits and evening attire.
JLC balances technical prowess with elegance, making it one of the most versatile brands for all winter scenarios.
For a timepiece that feels made for winter, look no further than Breitling. The brand’s aviation and diving heritage make it a natural choice for tough conditions.
Superocean: Built for divers, it thrives in icy waters or snowy hikes.
Avenger: Bold, legible and shock-resistant, it’s ready for harsher environments.
Chronomat: Combines sporty durability with versatile styling, suitable for both weekend wear and the office.
With their strong lume, bold dials and solid construction, Breitlings are built for visibility and durability in challenging weather.
Luxury watches need a little extra attention when temperatures drop, as cold weather and moisture can expose even the best timepieces to hidden risks.
Check seals and gaskets before the season: Proper sealing ensures water resistance, which is crucial when dealing with snow, sleet, or slush.
Rinse off road salt or chemicals after exposure: Salt and grit from icy streets can corrode steel and damage finishes if left untreated.
Avoid sudden shifts from freezing outdoors to warm interiors: Rapid temperature changes can create condensation inside the case, potentially harming the movement.
Store watches in a dry place when not in use: A cool, consistent environment reduces stress on lubricants and helps preserve overall performance.
The best winter watches combine durability with timeless style, offering performance and elegance no matter the conditions. Some are engineered to withstand rugged outdoor adventures, from snow-covered trails to icy streets, while others bring a touch of sophistication to urban life and formal occasions. Whether you’re navigating a brisk morning commute, enjoying winter sports, or attending a stylish evening event, the right timepiece is designed to perform reliably while complementing your seasonal wardrobe. In every setting, a well-chosen winter watch ensures you face the colder months with both confidence and refinement.
Explore our carefully curated collection of pre-owned luxury watches ready for Winter 2025. We've got all the top brands, each hand-selected for quality, authenticity, and timeless appeal. Many of our pieces are ready for next-day delivery, and if the specific model you’re looking for isn’t listed online, our team can source it specially for you. For a truly personalised experience, we invite you to visit our luxury showroom, where you can view our pre-owned collection up close and receive expert guidance in finding the perfect watch for your collection.
Let us help you find the perfect timepiece to complement your winter wardrobe. If you don’t see it online, simply get in touch using the form below, and one of our specialist team members will be delighted to source it for you.
