There are few metals that get the ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ — and one such is Titanium. We’ve all seen too many steel and aluminium watches (yawn), but there’s just something about a Titanium watch that screams class.
If you’re a novice when it comes to horology, allow us to introduce you to the finer things in life. Here’s everything you need to know about men’s Titanium watches. Grab a cuppa or a glass of wine (no judgment here), and get cosy.
Why Titanium? It’s Science, Folks!
An all-Titanium watch — boohoo, what’s the big deal? (Please never say that in front of a group of watch enthusiasts). This silver-grey metal, named after the mythological Greek Titans, is practically the king of the periodic table. We may need to give a courtesy in its honour.
Discovered back in the 18th century, this low-density, incredibly high-strength metal is not only resistant to water but also corrosion. It has nearly half the density of steel, which puts steel watches to shame. Its first traces were found in meteorites, lunar rocks and even celestial bodies!
You’ll find Titanium commonly used in aerospace, automotive, medical and even military industries. Whoever came up with the thought of a Titanium watch was clearly ahead of their time, and we’re so truly grateful.
Grades of Titanium: A Tale of Two Titans
This is where things get a little nerdy, so please excuse us. Titanium comes in two grades: Grade 2 and Grade 5, but what does that even mean? Simply put, metals are graded based on their chemical composition, mechanical qualities, and treatments—all of which determine their ideal use.
Grade 2 Titanium is commonly referred to as ‘commercially pure’. It’s lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and perfect for those who like to keep things simple. Grade 5 Titanium or Titanium alloy, on the other hand, is alloyed with 4 % vanadium and 6 % aluminium. This makes it extra strong and resistant to corrosion and heat.
Reasons to Choose a Titanium Watch
You’ve probably caught onto what all the hype is about all-Titanium watches. However, if you’re still not convinced, here are some reasons you absolutely need a men’s Titanium watch in your life (or on your wrist).
It’s Light as a Feather
Titanium’s claim to its fame is its weight — or lack of it. Coming in at just 4.5g/cm³, Titanium is roughly 40 % lighter than stainless steel, making it a popular choice for watchmaking. But what does that mean for you?
Its light weight means you’re looking incredible without having to lug a ton of weight around on your wrist. You could probably wear it throughout the day, without even noticing it’s there!
Durability, Who Has Time for Corrosion?
How many times have you gone surfing or into the pool without taking off your watch? Only to find out it’s starting to wear out? Thankfully, with a Titanium watch, you never have to experience that sort of heartbreak.
Grade 5 titanium has a tensile strength of around 1000 MPa. Translation: it’s tough. You could probably wear it while wrestling a bear (not recommended, but you get the point), which is why seawater and sweat have nothing on this bad boy.
Hypoallergenic
A common misconception: men can’t have sensitive skin. Says who?! If your skin is extra picky and super sensitive to other metals, causing you to get painful rashes — a men’s Titanium watch has your back.
It Has Character
We know we’re listing all the great properties of Titanium right now, but we just couldn’t resist telling you Titanium’s dark grey hue is distinctive and downright cool. If you’re going for a mysterious, rugged, refined, ‘I know what I’m worth’ sort of look, a Titanium watch is your best friend. It stands out of the crowd and gets heads turning — ideal if you struggle with the ladies.
It’s Not Too Hot, Not Too Cold
This is probably one of the lesser-known benefits of a Titanium dive watch, but it lacks thermal conductivity. This means it’s perfectly warm to flaunt on a chilly winter night and leaves no scorch marks under the scorching Sun.
It’s Anti-Magnetic
If you’ve noticed your watch running a lot faster than usual, there are chances it’s affected by magnetisation — causing it to either malfunction or tell you the wrong time. A Titanium watch is anti-magnetic, which means you never have to run into such a problem. Ever.
We find that quite reassuring, especially if we were to somehow run into the Hawkins lab from Stranger Things.
Some Big Names in Titanium Game
Titanium has incredible physical strength and makes for the perfect watch material. You probably get the picture by now. Let’s talk names. Here are some of the top Titanium watches that have caught our eye.
1. Grand Seiko SBGA211 (Snowflake)
At first glance, this white-dialed sports watch may seem like no big thing. But if you take a moment to truly observe it, it’s got a lot going. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder sort of stuff.
The dial texture, the Zaratsu polishing, the finishing on the hands — everything detail has something to say. If you’re willing to listen, of course. It’s a sophisticated high-tech cloud, Titanium watch, which is expensive but definitely not untouchable.
If you ask us, that’s Titanium done right.
2. Rolex Yacht-Master 42
Gather around folks, the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 is a feast for sore eyes, and it’s perfect for people who who prefer luxury that isn’t all up in your face. It’s powered by Rolex’s in-house calibre 3235 and has a 70-hour power reserve.
The Yacht-Master 42 in simple terms is precise, powerful and built to last. If we could describe this watch in one phrase, it’d be: “I’m worth a fortune, but only if you know what you’re looking at.”
3. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph Titanium
If you thought you knew what exclusive meant, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore will force you to think otherwise. Its standout feature: is the integrated bracelet. Unlike its other leather siblings, Oak Offshore flaunts a full titanium bracelet.
What we love most about this watch is its bold presence. Its design dates back to Gerald Genta’s original 1972 vision and is a real head-turner if you ask us.
4. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak QE II Cup 2017 Limited Edition
Okay, watch lovers, you may want to gather around for this one. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak QE II Cup 2017 Limited Edition has only 200 pieces around the world — we’re talking a rare gem. The integrated bracelet is built entirely with titanium, which gives it a robust, yet feathery light feel.
The yellow-gold rotor is engraved, giving it a luxurious feel and the double deployant clasp makes it a snuggly fit.
5. Richard Mille RM 67-01 Titanium
We’re ending our list of Titanium watches with an absolute banger: the Richard Mille RM 67-01. If you thought Richard Mille was all about bold designs, you were wrong. This piece is sophistication wrapped in a watch and is proof of Richard Mille flexing his minimalist muscles. And boy, does it work!
6. Tudor Pelagos
If you’ve been on the hunt for that one, classic Titanium dive watch, we just made your search a whole lot easier. It’s made from Grade 2 titanium, it’s corrosion-resistant and incredibly durable. And did we mention that it’s supple yet hard-wearing? That’s a combo we don’t get to see very often and we’re not complaining.
7. Citizen Promaster Tough
The Promaster Tough has seen a lot of phases, but one thing has remained constant over the years: its durability. You can throw any strenuous condition at this Titanium watch and it will always emerge victorious.
It features Duratect technology, a medium-grey hue and a front-loading monocoque design which pairs really well with the caseback. All in all, this watch is practically invincible.
8. Victorinox Swiss Army I.N.O.X Pro Diver
Another Titanium dive watch to make it to our list of favourites is the Victorinox Swiss Army I.N.O.X Pro Diver. And for good reason too. This watch is arguably one of the few Swiss watches that’s capable of withstanding extreme endurance homologation tests.
With the titanium case and black paracord strap, this watch screams adventure. It’s hypoallergenic, lightweight, and has passed more endurance tests than a triathlete. If you’re looking for durability, this is it.
Worth Every Penny?
Now to address the elephant in the room: the cost of a Titanium watch.
Yes, Titanium is one of the most expensive watch materials. Even more so than their stainless counterparts. But, let’s not forget the value you’re getting. It’s lighter, stronger, more durable, resistant to corrosion and it’s hypoallergenic for all you nickel-allergic folks out there.
If you ask us, you’re getting what you pay for. If not more. And hey, if investing in a men’s Titanium watch is making you feel like a million bucks, why not?
Is It Time to Make the Switch?
To switch or not to switch? If you ask us whether a Titanium watch is worth the hype, we’d say yes. These watches offer you style, versatility and practicality that’s hard to beat. Many of us believe that heavier must mean better, but Titanium flips the script.
While you’re still sleeping on it, why not head on over to our selection of premium, pre-loved wrist candies on Love Luxury? From Richard Mille to Rolex, we carry it all.
