From Rugged to Refined: Three-Watch Collection
Every collector has their own idea of a “perfect” three-watch collection. In this section, I’ve chosen what I believe are three pieces that cover everything you need: a rugged adventure watch, a chronograph, and a unique time-only piece with personality. The options I’ve selected from our curated shop are the Rolex Explorer, the Omega Speedmaster, and a classic Tissot time-only dress watch with a gorgeous dial.
In my opinion, having a Rolex Explorer in a collection is essential. Owning a watch in this category of tool watch makes it sporty, versatile, and instantly recognizable — especially by its red GMT hand, which gives the watch a bold and adventurous look. The white “Polar” dial is very enjoyable on the wrist, with its glossy, mirror-like texture that contrasts beautifully with the black hour markers. This is a great neo-vintage piece that offers an excellent slim case design along with an upgraded independent GMT movement. It would be the perfect option for a weekend hike, a mid-week work meeting, or anything in between. It’s not as sporty as a Submariner, nor as dressy as an Oyster Perpetual or Datejust.
The Omega in my three-watch collection is an early Speedmaster ref. 2998-62, and this one is truly something special. It features a beautifully aged tropical dial, with rich tones that give it so much character — the kind of patina collectors dream about. What sets the 2998-62 apart from later Speedmasters is its straight-lug case, which feels more vintage and pure compared to the bulkier asymmetric cases that followed. On top of that, it runs on the legendary Calibre 321 movement, the same one used in the very first Speedmasters and later on the Moon. It’s not just a Speedmaster — it’s one of the earliest and most original versions. Any three-watch collection should include a vintage chronograph, and having one with a matte dial is extra special. You can enjoy it on calmer days, whether it’s timing your parking meter or keeping track of how long your food order will take.
Getting into the dressier side, and my final choice, we have this beautiful Tissot from 1951. What makes this watch interesting is that for people who love Omega Seamasters but might not have the budget to easily buy one, a Tissot from that year is a fantastic alternative. The first standout feature is the dial — it has a chessboard pattern that gives it a really unique look, something you don’t see every day. In fact, I haven’t found another one like it online. The second highlight is the movement. Inside is a bumper movement manufactured by Omega, the same type used in Seamasters of that era, specifically the Cal. 354. Wearing a bumper movement is a joy, since you can actually feel the rotor hitting the springs as you move your wrist. In other words, this watch shares the same DNA and case construction as its Omega cousin — but with an even more distinctive dial.
Together, these three watches make a perfect collection. You have the rugged Rolex Explorer, the historic and collectible Omega Speedmaster, and the unique, elegant, and accessible Tissot. Each one covers a different style and purpose, giving the collector versatility, history, and personality — all in one small, diverse, yet powerful lineup.
