As we step into 2021 with a tiny bit of good news—Phase 3, everybody!—we’re also aware that it’s just a little over a month till Chinese New Year. And given the rollercoaster ride that is 2020, we could all do with a little more peace and prosperity now. If this means piling on the red for extra huat, we’re all happy to get on board.
Cue red lips, red nails, red outfits, and maybe even a fiery red ‘do for the truly adventurous. But don’t forget your wrist while you’re at it. After all, red is the colour du jour for lots of watch brands right now.
You could either step gingerly into this crimson hue by going for a red leather strap—Hermès has got a ton of beautiful options here—or dive in wrist first with big splashes of red from bezel to dial and strap.
We’re loving this colour-coordinated look selected by digital editor Pakkee Tan in his review of the Hermès SS21 show, and think how marvellous it would look with a touch of red on the wrist.
Here are the best red watches as curated by Vogue Singapore to wear this Lunar New Year.
1 / 11
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36
You can’t go wrong with a Rolex, especially the latest colourful Oyster Perpetual 36 range, which started out pretty much under-the-radar but ended up being the sleeper hit of 2020. The bright vermillion dial is definitely going to draw lots of attention.
2 / 11
Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Duoface Fagliano
Burgundy red works beautifully in this classic icon, here delivered on a new canvas strap with leather trim handcrafted by Casa Fagliano for Jaeger-LeCoultre. The sunburst finish really gives it a beautiful glimmer, like when you’re swirling a glass of wine against the light.
3 / 11
Van Cleef & Arpels Lady Arpels Ballerines Musicales
Modern ballet meets fine watchmaking in this grand complication ladies watch fully paved with diamonds against a red lacquer dial that rotates at the push of a button. Van Cleef & Arpels’ love for dance and mastery of métiers d’arts brings this exquisite timepiece to life.
4 / 11
Richard Mille RM07-01
The classic Richard Mille ladies model, RM07-01 just looks stunning when it pairs pavé diamonds with ruby red lacquer at its heart. Its contemporary aesthetic is immediately recognisable, and looks set to be a future classic in time to come.
5 / 11
Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Selfwinding
The latest Code 11.59 collection unveils a suite of vibrant colours, including this burgundy number which is an elegant, understated hue for CNY. We’re absolutely in love with the smoky degradé effect that gives the dial mysterious overtones.
6 / 11
Dior Grand Bal Jardin Fleuri
Gold, diamonds, pink sapphires and rubies adorn this exquisite high jewellery timepiece, with a Dior Inversé rotating weight on the dial that’s tuned to your movements.
7 / 11
Omega Tresor 36mm
The Trésor is one of Omega’s newest models, which makes it perfect for those looking for an Omega but already has a Seamaster, De Ville, or Speedmaster. Those elongated Roman numerals give the watch a feminine touch, with just a smidgeon of diamonds for stylistic flair.
8 / 11
Montblanc 1858 Split Second Chronograph Limited Edition
Its ruby red dial is done in gradated lacquer using a special process involving 15 layers of varnish. Done as an eight-piece limited edition with Sincere Fine Watches, this exquisite model is elegant on the outside but complicated on the inside.
9 / 11
Rado Captain Cook Bronze
For a red watch brimming with sporty vibes, don’t look further than this Rado number in bronze delivered on a matching red NATO strap. We think it would be a lovely fit for those planning on sticking to athleisure for the Lunar New Year.
10 / 11
H Moser & Cie. Endeavour Centre Seconds Diamonds Concept
Pardon the image, it looks more purple than red here, but the dial is actually a deep burgundy. Further complicating matters is how it changes with the light, thanks to a special technique known at H. Moser & Cie as the fumé dial. Definitely one to see in person, than relying just on pictures online.
11 / 11
Ophion OPH 786 Velos Radial Red
A Singapore limited edition launched at Jeweluxe 2020, this 55-piece timepiece combines independent watchmaker Kari Voutilainen’s incredible watchmaking know-how with an affordable price tag.
