Watches & Wonders 2022 favorites

Watches & Wonders 2022 favorites

Now that the dust has settled, the biggest watch trade show of this year, Watches & Wonders in Geneva, has produced a slate of new releases that, as a whole, offer much intrigue. That said, nothing really blew me away like Baselworld 2018. 

With Rolex (Audemars Piguet and Patek) steel sports watches unattainable, the entire shopping experience for watch lovers has changed. Enthusiasm for Rolex has cooled for me just because it’s unlikely that I could ever get my hands on any of the new releases.

My attention shifted to other brands, but of course, being a Rolex fanboy, their new releases did get me excited. The destro GMT-Master II was my least favorite of the new watch announcements, but the new Air-King and yellow-gold Yacht-Master 42 had me wishing I had a stronger connection with my local authorized dealer.

After standing in line for the Swatch Speedmaster releases and failing to get one, I witnessed firsthand how suddenly a hobby I felt I had to myself has turned into a full on thing for lots more people. I can’t be upset that more people are into watches these days, and here are some of the new releases that I’d recommend to new enthusiasts on the scene.

Photo by Cartier

Cartier Tank Must black dial: I do love the colorful takes on this classic for Cartier, but something about the dark black dial creates a richness that can’t be beat for a dressier occasion. Simple elegance at its best. These wear super small in my experience, but that’s what they’re supposed to do. 

Photo by Rolex

The new Air-King: Air some crown guards, lumed numerals and an 05 marker and suddenly the most odd and divisive recent Rolex release suddenly takes on its full potential. I know it’s different, but having an odd looking Rolex suits me. For context, I’d rock the Domino’s Pizza Air-King too.


Photo by Vacheron Constantin

Vacheron Constantin 222: A yellow-gold remake of a 1970s model is just what we need in 2022. This is a watch that one dreams of when it comes to the perfect one watch that is the ultimate flex within the integrated bracelet sports watch category. 

Photo by Monochrome Watches

Black Bay Pro: It’s a Black Bay GMT in a smaller case size than the Pepsi version, but it looks like a vintage Explorer II. The fixed steel bezel, yellow GMT hand and all-around solid esthetic makes perfect sense for the no-nonsense watch guy or gal looking for a smart choice.

Photo by Grand Seiko

Grand Seiko SBGW283 "Kishun" and the SBGW285 "Byōka": I’ve owned this watch in its original cream dial. At 37mm this discreet manual-wind watch is the perfect low-key dress watch that can be worn as easily with sweatpants. The new green and light blue dial options are killer.


Photo by Rolex

Yellow gold Yacht-Master 42: What else do you need to say? It’s a fancy Rolex diver that comes on an Oysterflex strap. You’re definitely ballin’ out if you have one of these on the wrist.

It's time you got a proper watchbox. Get the Everest version.


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