Time moves at its own rhythm come summer. And we have the perfect travel companions for your next getaway
In 2026, travelling is about curating every detail. The modern traveller no longer packs light; they pack right. A silk kaftan for the beach, linen pants for city, a cashmere pullover for alpine evenings and a carefully chosen watch to match. No longer just keepers of time, watches have transcended to being constant companions, holding memories and experiences. Whether catching a sunset or curling up in a cosy cafe, the jet set are increasingly curating arm candy that matches the mood of the moment. As each destination calls for its unique expression of time, here we map the season’s most coveted timepieces to the year’s hottest travel spots.
Where: The French Riviera
Wear: French Riviera is a state of mind—defined by aperitif hours, vintage convertibles and effortless glamour. Watches here are a symbol of sophistication. The iconic Cartier Santos designed in 1904, with its square case and aviation heritage, transitions seamlessly from beachside lunches to speedboat rides. Its steel and gold bracelet catches the midday light perfectly as you drift along the Côte d’Azur. Come evening, the Baignoire takes over with its languid curves bringing a softer vibe to the Riviera. Oval, delicate and unmistakably Parisian, it fits right into those golden hour champagne moments by the sea.
Where: The Dolomites
Wear: High in the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites, the aesthetic shifts. The Italian Alps speak a language of their own with raw limestones, crisp air and elongated shadows. Mirroring this boldness with its avant-garde designs is Bvlgari. Modern and minimalistic, the Octo Finissimo with its razor-thin profile and architectural silhouette, echoes the jagged geometry of the mountains themselves. In contrast, the Bvlgari Aluminium introduces a sportier note. Lightweight, with its rubber bezel and strap, it’s the ideal companion for hikes, drives and everything in between.
Where: St. Moritz
Wear: Summer in St. Moritz is for silk scarves, chalet lunches and some diamond dust. Polo fields replace ski runs, and the mountains become the perfect canvas for a little bit of sparkle. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak in full pave diamonds is the only timepiece capable of competing with the sparkling Swiss glaciers. Unveiled in 1972, the watch was considered quite sporty for a luxury timepiece at the time. Today, its iced-out iteration serves some serious glamour, glistening with unapologetic brilliance when the light hits the diamonds against the stark backdrop of the snow laden slopes.
Where: Kyoto
Wear: In Kyoto, time feels different. Measured not in minutes, but in moments with tea ceremonies and temple walks. The Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle is the perfect companion for this slow life. Founded in 1755, Vacheron is the oldest watch manufacturer in the world, and Traditionnelle carries that legacy of elegance and restraint. With its classic round case, hand-finished dial, railroad minute track and dauphine hands, it respects the craftsmanship and heritage of its surroundings.
Where: Baku
Wear: The new mecca for the rich and famous to congregate, the city aptly encapsulate wealth and luxury. 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of Gerald Genta’s most famous creation, and the Patek Philippe Nautilus feel oh-so relevant here. With its integrated bracelet, octagonal bezel and horizontal embossed dial, every detail is engineered to fit the high-flying life here. The most recognisable luxury sports watch ever made, it moves effortlessly from a day in the Old Town to a night at the casino.
Where: Jaipur
Wear: The city of colour, culture and craft, Jaipur is known for its old-world charm and grandeur. Between the terracotta walls of the Hawa Mahal and the fresco-laden interiors of the City Palace, the Chopard Happy Sport finds itself at home here. Introduced in 1993, the Happy Sport was Chopard’s answer to those who wanted functionality with a side of glamour. With the floating diamonds dancing across the dial, it captures Jaipur’s joie de vivre perfectly.
Where: Amalfi Coast
Wear: Along the winding cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, life is lived outdoors on boats, by the sea, under the sun. Adventure and elegance walk side by side. Somewhere between the lunch at Positano and dinner in Naples, there is a spontaneous swim and this is where the Omega Seamaster Diver 300m truly shines. With its wave-pattern dial and serious water resistance, it is dolce vita personified, looking equally good on a morning dive off the rocks as it does on a dinner by the beach.
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