In a few months, I’ll be a guest at a large wedding that is tuxedo optional - I will be in a tux, but I’m not part of the event, just a guest with some friends, and can lighten up a bit. Ideally, what watch do you wear - for style and ( importantly ) fun, … absolutely no need or desire to flex. Just horology.

Ideas?

 

Classic 3 hander no date

So, this would be my pick on a black strap
Think it is actually a classic 2 hander. Something about not needing to be watching the time.





Edit: found this

https://timeandtidewatches.com/the-...tie-5-tips-for-tuxedo-appropriate-timepieces/

The rules part two – the watch
To avoid the many and varied pitfalls, we’ve come up with the following instructions – which you can feel free to forward on to Spacey, Elba et al at your convenience:

1. Size does matter
Go no larger than 39mm in diameter – and yes, we know that rules out practically everything.

2. Black tie means black
Always wear a black leather strap. Not brown, not purple and never metal, and yes, that includes Milanese. Still no.

3. Watch your figure
Slim, low profile, to fit neatly beneath your shirt sleeve – your watch should be glimpsed, not seen.

4. Keep it simple
Hours, minutes and seconds will do, thanks. This isn’t a racing suit or a wetsuit.

5. Think ‘elegance’
That is the very point of black tie, so choose a watch that’s elegant enough to match the rest of your ensemble.

 

For sure, and if one really wants to get elegant, square or rectangular is the only way to go

 

this is like style and life advice all wrapped into one!

 

My go to black tie watch, a 1929 Hamilton Piping Rock.

 

This would be my choice:



And if the white side doesnt fit the tux, i would just flip it to the dark side

 

Nice simple Nomos,on black leather to dress it up.

 

Since it is optional, personally I would nix the tux and dress appropriately comfortable and wear the watch I want to. Just my 2 cents. But if you are determined tho “tux it” something thin, small, discrete 3 hander with a black dial. If done correctly even the brand/model doesn’t matter since you will be the only one noticing it.

 

But it's supposed to be for fun. Didn't you ever play "dress up" when you were a kid? I wouldn't mind playing that even now but my feet are too big for Janice's shoes.

 

Tuxedo + tuxedo?


( credit to @MikeMan2727 )

 

It doesn't matter, no one will notice. Just keep it simple, no Invictas. Traditionally the standard etiquette was NO WATCH with a tuxedo.

 

People will tell you a small three-hander on a leather strap or nothing at all are the ONLY choices, but realistically, wear what you want. At my wedding, I wore my old Seamaster GMT on a Bond-style bracelet. Last time I wore a tux at an awards ceremony, I wore my Speedmaster FOIS on a black croc strap. FWIW, at that ceremony, all the men wore tuxes and most of them were wearing Apple Watches. So I was the only one who actually “dressed up” my wrist.

Not a single person noticed or commented on either choice, but I felt great wearing each. That’s the only thing that really matters.

 

@STANDY has pretty much nailed it but just to say how much I dislike the 'look at me - I’m not like everyone else' - guests who think it’s 'cool' to wear a 'look at me' bow tie; coloured, patterned, velvet' etc, or a 'look at me' waistband or waistcoat; coloured, patterned etc.

Don’t get me started on frilly shirts!

It’s unsubtle and show-offy.

Tuxedos (or dinner jackets as we call them) and morning dress is uniform and the main thing about uniform is that we all dress the same.

After all, if you’re in the forces, you don’t get to choose and wear your favourite colours in chevrons, lanyards, medals etc.

Actually, forget what I’ve said, I’m just an old fart. Wear whatever you like.

 

I've worn a ref 2791 for black tie events. 36mm, slim and discreet, and very very unlikely for anyone else to wearing the same thing



A Reverso would also be an excellent idea, as mentioned earlier by another forum member.

 

Just to play devils advocate. Most people don’t get many opportunities to “play dress up” anymore. So on those rare occasions we do it can be nice to have a little fun and “show off” a bit.

When I saw this thread my thoughts immediately went to all of those old stuffy rules already mentioned. As also already mentioned, most people will be wearing Apple watches and staring at their phones half the time so I say just wear whatever watch you want. Just no Invictas. That rule always stands.

For the record, a fun pocket square is as frilly as I get.

 

The baller move would be to skip a watch.

 

Or possibly just a nice pocket watch, tucked away inside your jacket? I’ve always enjoyed that, not often I get to carry a pocket watch.

 

Now that would be showing off! Don’t tell @Spruce

Pocket watch would be awesome. Monocle optional.

 

TBH, I used to go to formal, professional dinners after work in the 70s/80s and would change in the office. This Benson Field was my daily wearer.

Having no waistcoat, I’d clip the Albert to my (side) trouser adjuster and keep the watch in my trouser’s pocket.

 

Were it me I would wear one of these that I own.

It needs to be bright and drawer the eye, especially if you are single and want to get laid!
As per above the Pocket watch is off the menu ( success not eccentricity)