May is around the corner, and with it, a fresh set of grads ready to take on the world. A thoughtful graduation gift can be a particularly memorable token, and what better way to celebrate than with a special watch or accessory? In this Chronicle, we consider five fantastic gifts that a graduate would be thrilled to receive. As always, the Windup Watch Shop Team is available for consultations and to answer any questions you have. Congrats grads!
Vintage Rolex Datejust 1603
It doesn’t get any more classic than a steel Datejust, especially the 1603. Linen dial Rolex watches were manufactured throughout the 1960s and 1970s, and this example features a stepped dial that adds to the watch’s intrigue and appeal. This particular watch is a non-lumed version, and it retains a sharp case and bezel and matching 62510 bracelet. A 36mm steel Rolex is as universal a watch as you will find, and the Datejust has long earned its reputation as a watch for all occasions. For a timeless watch with enduring appeal, look no further than this.
Tactile Turn Side-Click Standard Pen
A quality pen is a faithful companion and a staple for both professional and personal use. The Tactile Turn Side-Click Pen is a solid choice thanks to its robust construction and thoughtful use of metals (the Side-Click is available in bronze and copper too). Featuring micro ridges for improved grip and a milled clip, this pen gets the details right. The click mechanism is satisfying and substantial, and the Side-Click Standard can, in addition to standard Pilot G2 ink, accept other cartridges to match your style. Slowly upgrading your day-to-day gear is part of the perks of being a new grad or professional, and a pen is a great place to start.
Hamilton Khaki Aviation Chrono
We can easily recommend Hamilton watches anytime, anywhere – even ones we don’t carry in the shop. Their sensible designs, American roots, and reasonable price points make them popular timepieces with collectors of all walks. The Khaki Aviation series of pilot’s watches have been runaway successes over the years, and the Chronograph is noteworthy for its asymmetrical case and shockingly good vintage styling that doesn’t go over the top. This model comes on a leather strap for easy wearing, and it is as enjoyable for the new grad and budding enthusiast as it is for the seasoned veteran.
Marathon Digital Clock with Stand
Graduating and moving on and up in the world sometimes means moving out, and the Marathon Atomic Digital Clock can help get a head start in home decorating. With its ultra-slim high-contrast LCD and atomic time-keeping abilities, this wall clock will always find a use in a new home or space. It can display time in both 12 and 24-hour formats and also features alarm, calendar, and weather information. It runs on two long life AA batteries, which are included. The clock also includes a stand, so you can move it from the wall to the shelf and back.
Tissot Heritage 1938 Automatic
Let’s be honest that most folks aren’t hardcore watch enthusiasts or fanatics; they simply want one or two “nice watches” they can wear in a variety of settings. Tissot likely had such people in mind when they released the Heritage 1938 Automatic COSC. At 39mm wide and only 11.1mm thick, this vintage-inspired automatic watch is not only stunningly beautiful thanks to its salmon dial – it is COSC certified for accuracy between +6/-4 seconds a day. With welcome details like the vintage Tissot logo, balanced dial with slightly raised Arabic numerals, and supple leather strap, this is a watch that does it all and looks great doing it.
