Graduation Gifts: The Watch Edition

It’s a time-honored tradition to give your graduate a gift that honors their achievement. If you ask any of us at The 1916 Company, a watch always fits the bill. Check out some gift-giving suggestions from the extended The 1916 Company family, and discover classic dress watches, go-anywhere-do-anything chronographs, dive watches, GMTs, future heirlooms, and more.

A special thanks to our resident graduate, Ari Beal, for helping to compile these recommendations!

Ari Beal  |  Sales + Marketing Intern

Gift Recommendation: Rolex GMT-Master II “Pepsi”
The Rolex GMT Master II “Pepsi” combines classical styling with a hyper-functional GMT bezel, which will allow graduates to keep track of multiple time zones. It is also a birth year watch for most high school graduates. The “F” serial, noting the watch was produced in 2003, is that extra layer of thought and nostalgia to a truly hand-picked gift.

Hans Singer  |  Client Advisor + Training Coordinator

Gift Recommendation: Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra
The Aqua Terra is the everyday watch every graduate needs. The watch is a work horse with a reliable movement, classical styling, and useful functionality. Perfect with a casual weekend outfit or in a place of work; the watch can be casual, business, or a bit of both. This example is a recent watch from the Omega catalogue with a dial that is truly stunning in person, especially on the wrist.

David Butler  |  Senior Client Advisor

Gift Recommendation: Rolex Explorer 214270
If I were giving a graduation gift, I would go with a 214270 Rolex Explorer. It is super versatile. You can dress it up or down and it will be a great companion with you along your travels in life.

Bill Comfort  |  Senior Client Advisor

Gift Recommendation: Rolex Datejust 41
I selected the Rolex Datejust 41 as it is classic and timeless. It would be a great addition to anyone’s collection – especially on such a monumental achievement. Plus, its solid caseback is perfect for engraving!

Gift Recommendation: Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Perpetual Calendar
I selected this watch as it is both a high complication and super dressy, which will be great for interviews and the next steps in life. I also am a sucker for a moonphase, so that is just a bonus.

Gift Recommendation: Omega Speedmaster
I chose a Speedy because it too marks a monumental achievement and will always be in style. I have one in my collection, and it is super versatile. Looks great with a suit as well jeans and can be worn every day.

Alex Lazarus  |  Senior Client Advisor

Gift Recommendation: Grand Seiko Heritage SBGP001
This is a fine gift for a recent grad on their way into the workforce. What I find appealing about the Grand Seiko Heritage SBGP001 is that it’s a great combination of dress and sport. With it’s in house quartz movement it will ensure that you’re always on time and a date is a must!

Alaina Lackman  |  Global Director of Marketplaces

Gift Recommendation: Cartier Tank Française
Admired for generations, the Cartier Tank is the perfect watch to celebrate a graduation. Simple in design, the Tank is both timeless & versatile, never appearing dated or too “trendy.” This is a watch that will professionalize your new-job-look and at the same time, look great on days off and nights out.

Todd Searle  |  Contributing Editor

Gift Recommendation: Tudor Black Bay GMT
The Black Bay GMT is a great watch to start your grads collection. Available on bracelet, the watch can also be worn on a leather or NATO strap, offering several, versatile looks. The watch will patina with your grad and will be sure to be an enjoyed and useful tool for a lifetime of memories.