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All the watch news, reviews, videos you want, brought to you from fellow collectors
All the watch news, reviews, videos you want, brought to you from fellow collectors
International Region Director at Oris
Chronoholic - Which is your favorite watch that you own?
Leila - My favorite watch that I own is my Oris Divers-Sixty-Five Cotton Candy with the blue dial. I was a bit involved during the design process and knew I would buy this watch for myself. It then happened that I received it at a difficult time for me personally. And that is when I realised how much this simple timepiece can bring so much positive energy and joy when things are rough. It has a special meaning to me.
Chronoholic - Which is the one watch that you aspire to own someday?
Leila - There are so many. But one that I have been wishing for since I worked at Baselworld as a side job when I was still a student, is the Patek Philippe Calatrava in rose gold 39mm with the Ivory lacquered dial. The design is so simple yet timeless, with its clean lines, classic dial, and minimalistic approach. It manages to make luxury feel effortless and I personally very much adore that till today.
Chronoholic- As someone who has been in the industry for a long time, what are some of the most exciting developments in women’s watchmaking today?
Leila - I think there are many positive developments in women’s watchmaking. One is the fact that more women are working in the industry and contributing to the watches. This allows women in the industry to speak more up about what women actually like in watches, rather than men telling what women want.
Also, while a couple of decades ago, the industry was targeting men only, I see a shift today in some brands approaching young female professionals rather than men. I think we have to move away from the fact that women are into pink and diamonds only, but actually do want a choice in size, material and design.
The same woman can appreciate fine craftsmanship, history, and the artistry behind the design of a 39mm watch with an automatic movement in a stainless steel case pursue and at the same time pursue a beautiful 28mm gold watch with a diamond bezel that looks like an incredible piece of jewelry with a quartz movement.
While I can see a shift in the mindset, the industry has certainly room to better reach that female customer. I believe empowering more women to work in this beautiful industry, not just in managerial positions but as watchmakers and designers, would give the horology world a fresh perspective, creating designs and marketing campaigns that resonate more deeply with feminine customers and addressing their unique tastes and needs in a traditionally male- dominated space.
Chronoholic - Do you see more women investing in mechanical watches rather than just quartz pieces?
Leila - I think so! Over the past few years, there's definitely been a shift with more women investing in mechanical watches, rather than just sticking to quartz pieces. I can see that at Oris and other brands when visiting markets or coming together with female watch enthusiasts. Mechanical watches offer a level of craftsmanship and tradition that many women are increasingly appreciating. There's a growing desire for uniqueness and the artistry behind a mechanical movement, and women are becoming more involved in both the collecting and the design aspects of the watch industry.
Chronoholic - What are some trends you’ve observed in how Indian women approach luxury watch purchases?
Leila - I can see the Indian female watch owners, collectors and enthusiasts growing in India. Online communities and social media platforms have created a space for women to share their passion for horology, offering inspiration and contributing to a growing culture of women as watch owners or even collectors. While there is definitely room for growth, it’s a positive development.
I can see that Indian women have a very prominent taste when it comes to watches. It seems like pure confidence in looking for a timepiece that complements their individual (sometimes traditional) style and culture, rather than simply opting for what is traditionally "feminine". I like that.
Chronoholic - Are you seeing a rise in women purchasing watches for themselves, or are they still mostly bought as gifts?
Leila - Most women I know or talk to buy watches for themselves or clearly communicate what they want to be gifted. If women are given a watch they don’t like, they will ask for a change or return. So I don’t think that the actual decision of the purchased watch is with the person buying the gift.
Chronoholic- Have you noticed a growing interest in larger case sizes or complicated watches among women?
Leila - I can see a growing interest in men and women liking more similar case sizes, so yes. I truly believe, most women that are into watches, and like to collect watches are interested in having a variety in case sizes, materials, functions, etc.. We like to have choices and bigger case sizes are being more approached by women today than they have been in previous times. It has become less intimidating to wear what you actually want to wear compared to what society expects to see you wear. In certain cultures more than others. I remember when I started working at Oris almost a decade ago, I chose the beautiful Artelier Chronometer Date as my first Oris watch. I kept hearing that I like “men’s” watches. For me, that was nonsense. Luckily the boundaries between “men’s” and “women’s” watches have become much more fluid. Women no longer feel confined to only watches that are tiny, purely aesthetic or have limited functions. I can definitely see the watch industry is responding to this demand, with many brands, including Oris, releasing designs that cater to a broader audience, selling women larger cases and more complex movements in addition to the traditional designs.
Chronoholic - What would you say to a woman looking to explore the world of horology today?
Leila - I would say embrace your curiosity and passion for craftsmanship and do not be afraid to explore. Whether you're drawn to the elegance of a classic dress watch, the complexity of mechanical movements, or the heritage behind certain brands, trust your female instincts. If you have no clue, don’t be afraid to learn and try. Horology can seem intimidating at first- I’ve been there. But it’s all about learning and appreciating the sophistication of timepieces. One fun way to learn is by joining a watch community in your city, by following people with knowledge digitally, by going to watch fairs if you can, by simply connecting with other enthusiasts. The watch world has historically been male-dominated, but things are changing. More and more women are entering the space, designing watches and influencing trends. Don’t be afraid to explore watches that are not necessarily marketed just for women—for me personally the most timeless pieces are those that go beyond traditional gender boundaries.
_____________________________________________
Founder, Time & Style Watch Boutique, New Delhi.
Chronoholic - Which is your favorite watch that you own? Which is the one watch that you aspire to own someday?
Rachna - One of my favorites is the Rolex Rose Gold Datejust and my dream watch is Breguet Naples with diamonds.
Chronoholic - Do you see more women investing in mechanical watches rather than just quartz pieces?
Rachna - So whenever a woman buys a watch, she goes on the look of the watch. I think it doesn’t matter much to them, whether it is a quart or automatic, the feel & the look is more important.
Chronoholic - What challenges, if any, do women buyers face when looking for high-end timepieces?
Rachna - A woman needs a diamond and gold bracelet. Of course, they should have a budget for that, but that’s their preference.
Chronoholic - What are some trends you’ve observed in how Indian women approach luxury watch purchases?
Rachna - The market for luxury watches is very limited. And they like to buy brands which are popular, they would not like to experiment on a non-popular brand.
Chronoholic - Are you seeing a rise in women purchasing watches for themselves, or are they still mostly bought as gifts?
Rachna - Watches are no more about time keeping, it's more like fashion, which they accessorise with their clothing.
Chronoholic - Have you noticed a growing interest in larger case sizes or complicated watches among women?
Rachna - It’s not everybody’s choice to have a big case. It's an individual choice.
Chronoholic - What would you say to a woman looking to explore the world of horology today?
Rachna - If I talk about my country, Indian women are not that much interested in the world of horology. While in the current scenario, the interest is growing, though slowly but I think we are getting there.
_____________________________________________
Senior Vice President - Ethos
Chronoholic - Which is your favorite watch that you own? Which is the one watch that you aspire to own someday? What do you aspire to own?
Juhi - The favourite watch that I own would be the Jacob & Co. Astronomia Tourbillon. The Astronomia Tourbillon is pure artistry in motion. With its mesmerizing triple-axis tourbillon, a hand-painted magnesium globe, and a Jacob-cut diamond that endlessly rotates, it feels like a miniature universe on the wrist.
Chronoholic - As someone who has been in the industry for a long time, what are some of the most exciting developments in women’s watchmaking today?
Juhi - Women’s watchmaking is experiencing an exciting shift, with brands focusing on intricate mechanical movements, high complications, and bold designs tailored specifically for female collectors. No longer just about gem-set aesthetics, today’s timepieces showcase skeletonized dials, avant-garde materials, and serious horology. Most importantly, women are engaging with watches as true connoisseurs, driving a new era where craftsmanship, heritage, and innovation take center stage.
Chronoholic - Do you see more women investing in mechanical watches rather than just quartz pieces?
Juhi - Absolutely! More women are investing in mechanical watches, driven by growing awareness, access to information, and a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship. As horology becomes more accessible, women are moving beyond quartz for the artistry and heritage of mechanical timepieces. There’s something magical about wearing a watch powered purely by gears and springs.
Chronoholic - What challenges, if any, do women buyers face when looking for high-end timepieces?
Juhi - Women buyers often face a limited selection of high-complication timepieces, as many brands still prioritize mechanical innovation for men’s collections. There’s also the challenge of overcoming outdated industry perceptions that women value aesthetics over horology. However, as more women engage with watches as collectors and connoisseurs, brands are responding with greater inclusivity—offering sophisticated, mechanically advanced timepieces that blend technical excellence with elegant design.
Chronoholic - What are some trends you’ve observed in how Indian women approach luxury watch purchases?
Juhi - Indian women are increasingly viewing luxury watches as more than just accessories—they see them as investments, status symbols, and expressions of personal style. There’s a growing preference for mechanical & jewelled timepieces, limited editions, and heritage brands, reflecting a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship. Women are also making more independent purchase decisions, prioritizing exclusivity, storytelling, and value over trend driven buys, signaling a shift toward more informed and confident watch collecting. 6. Are you seeing a rise in women purchasing watches for themselves, or are they still mostly bought as gifts?
There’s a clear rise in women purchasing watches for themselves, driven by a growing appreciation for horology and independent decision-making. While watches are still popular gifts, more women are investing in timepieces that reflect their personal style, achievements, and passion for craftsmanship, marking a shift from tradition to self-expression.
Chronoholic - Have you noticed a growing interest in larger case sizes or complicated watches among women?
Juhi - Yes, there’s a definite shift toward larger case sizes and more complicated watches among women. Many are moving beyond traditional dainty designs, opting for bold, statement pieces with mechanical movements, skeleton dials, and high complications. This reflects a growing confidence in personal style and a deeper appreciation for fine watchmaking.
Chronoholic - What would you say to a woman looking to explore the world of horology today?
Juhi - My advice would be to explore with curiosity, seek timepieces that resonate with your personal style, and look beyond aesthetics to appreciate the craftsmanship and innovation behind each watch. Don’t be afraid to experiment with complications, movements, and bold designs. The world of fine watchmaking is no longer defined by tradition alone—it’s evolving, and women are at the forefront of this transformation.
International Region Director at Oris
Chronoholic - Which is your favorite watch that you own?
Leila - My favorite watch that I own is my Oris Divers-Sixty-Five Cotton Candy with the blue dial. I was a bit involved during the design process and knew I would buy this watch for myself. It then happened that I received it at a difficult time for me personally. And that is when I realised how much this simple timepiece can bring so much positive energy and joy when things are rough. It has a special meaning to me.
Chronoholic - Which is the one watch that you aspire to own someday?
Leila - There are so many. But one that I have been wishing for since I worked at Baselworld as a side job when I was still a student, is the Patek Philippe Calatrava in rose gold 39mm with the Ivory lacquered dial. The design is so simple yet timeless, with its clean lines, classic dial, and minimalistic approach. It manages to make luxury feel effortless and I personally very much adore that till today.
Chronoholic- As someone who has been in the industry for a long time, what are some of the most exciting developments in women’s watchmaking today?
Leila - I think there are many positive developments in women’s watchmaking. One is the fact that more women are working in the industry and contributing to the watches. This allows women in the industry to speak more up about what women actually like in watches, rather than men telling what women want.
Also, while a couple of decades ago, the industry was targeting men only, I see a shift today in some brands approaching young female professionals rather than men. I think we have to move away from the fact that women are into pink and diamonds only, but actually do want a choice in size, material and design.
The same woman can appreciate fine craftsmanship, history, and the artistry behind the design of a 39mm watch with an automatic movement in a stainless steel case pursue and at the same time pursue a beautiful 28mm gold watch with a diamond bezel that looks like an incredible piece of jewelry with a quartz movement.
While I can see a shift in the mindset, the industry has certainly room to better reach that female customer. I believe empowering more women to work in this beautiful industry, not just in managerial positions but as watchmakers and designers, would give the horology world a fresh perspective, creating designs and marketing campaigns that resonate more deeply with feminine customers and addressing their unique tastes and needs in a traditionally male- dominated space.
Chronoholic - Do you see more women investing in mechanical watches rather than just quartz pieces?
Leila - I think so! Over the past few years, there's definitely been a shift with more women investing in mechanical watches, rather than just sticking to quartz pieces. I can see that at Oris and other brands when visiting markets or coming together with female watch enthusiasts. Mechanical watches offer a level of craftsmanship and tradition that many women are increasingly appreciating. There's a growing desire for uniqueness and the artistry behind a mechanical movement, and women are becoming more involved in both the collecting and the design aspects of the watch industry.
Chronoholic - What are some trends you’ve observed in how Indian women approach luxury watch purchases?
Leila - I can see the Indian female watch owners, collectors and enthusiasts growing in India. Online communities and social media platforms have created a space for women to share their passion for horology, offering inspiration and contributing to a growing culture of women as watch owners or even collectors. While there is definitely room for growth, it’s a positive development.
I can see that Indian women have a very prominent taste when it comes to watches. It seems like pure confidence in looking for a timepiece that complements their individual (sometimes traditional) style and culture, rather than simply opting for what is traditionally "feminine". I like that.
Chronoholic - Are you seeing a rise in women purchasing watches for themselves, or are they still mostly bought as gifts?
Leila - Most women I know or talk to buy watches for themselves or clearly communicate what they want to be gifted. If women are given a watch they don’t like, they will ask for a change or return. So I don’t think that the actual decision of the purchased watch is with the person buying the gift.
Chronoholic- Have you noticed a growing interest in larger case sizes or complicated watches among women?
Leila - I can see a growing interest in men and women liking more similar case sizes, so yes. I truly believe, most women that are into watches, and like to collect watches are interested in having a variety in case sizes, materials, functions, etc.. We like to have choices and bigger case sizes are being more approached by women today than they have been in previous times. It has become less intimidating to wear what you actually want to wear compared to what society expects to see you wear. In certain cultures more than others. I remember when I started working at Oris almost a decade ago, I chose the beautiful Artelier Chronometer Date as my first Oris watch. I kept hearing that I like “men’s” watches. For me, that was nonsense. Luckily the boundaries between “men’s” and “women’s” watches have become much more fluid. Women no longer feel confined to only watches that are tiny, purely aesthetic or have limited functions. I can definitely see the watch industry is responding to this demand, with many brands, including Oris, releasing designs that cater to a broader audience, selling women larger cases and more complex movements in addition to the traditional designs.
Chronoholic - What would you say to a woman looking to explore the world of horology today?
Leila - I would say embrace your curiosity and passion for craftsmanship and do not be afraid to explore. Whether you're drawn to the elegance of a classic dress watch, the complexity of mechanical movements, or the heritage behind certain brands, trust your female instincts. If you have no clue, don’t be afraid to learn and try. Horology can seem intimidating at first- I’ve been there. But it’s all about learning and appreciating the sophistication of timepieces. One fun way to learn is by joining a watch community in your city, by following people with knowledge digitally, by going to watch fairs if you can, by simply connecting with other enthusiasts. The watch world has historically been male-dominated, but things are changing. More and more women are entering the space, designing watches and influencing trends. Don’t be afraid to explore watches that are not necessarily marketed just for women—for me personally the most timeless pieces are those that go beyond traditional gender boundaries.
_____________________________________________
Founder, Time & Style Watch Boutique, New Delhi.
Chronoholic - Which is your favorite watch that you own? Which is the one watch that you aspire to own someday?
Rachna - One of my favorites is the Rolex Rose Gold Datejust and my dream watch is Breguet Naples with diamonds.
Chronoholic - Do you see more women investing in mechanical watches rather than just quartz pieces?
Rachna - So whenever a woman buys a watch, she goes on the look of the watch. I think it doesn’t matter much to them, whether it is a quart or automatic, the feel & the look is more important.
Chronoholic - What challenges, if any, do women buyers face when looking for high-end timepieces?
Rachna - A woman needs a diamond and gold bracelet. Of course, they should have a budget for that, but that’s their preference.
Chronoholic - What are some trends you’ve observed in how Indian women approach luxury watch purchases?
Rachna - The market for luxury watches is very limited. And they like to buy brands which are popular, they would not like to experiment on a non-popular brand.
Chronoholic - Are you seeing a rise in women purchasing watches for themselves, or are they still mostly bought as gifts?
Rachna - Watches are no more about time keeping, it's more like fashion, which they accessorise with their clothing.
Chronoholic - Have you noticed a growing interest in larger case sizes or complicated watches among women?
Rachna - It’s not everybody’s choice to have a big case. It's an individual choice.
Chronoholic - What would you say to a woman looking to explore the world of horology today?
Rachna - If I talk about my country, Indian women are not that much interested in the world of horology. While in the current scenario, the interest is growing, though slowly but I think we are getting there.
_____________________________________________
Senior Vice President - Ethos
Chronoholic - Which is your favorite watch that you own? Which is the one watch that you aspire to own someday? What do you aspire to own?
Juhi - The favourite watch that I own would be the Jacob & Co. Astronomia Tourbillon. The Astronomia Tourbillon is pure artistry in motion. With its mesmerizing triple-axis tourbillon, a hand-painted magnesium globe, and a Jacob-cut diamond that endlessly rotates, it feels like a miniature universe on the wrist.
Chronoholic - As someone who has been in the industry for a long time, what are some of the most exciting developments in women’s watchmaking today?
Juhi - Women’s watchmaking is experiencing an exciting shift, with brands focusing on intricate mechanical movements, high complications, and bold designs tailored specifically for female collectors. No longer just about gem-set aesthetics, today’s timepieces showcase skeletonized dials, avant-garde materials, and serious horology. Most importantly, women are engaging with watches as true connoisseurs, driving a new era where craftsmanship, heritage, and innovation take center stage.
Chronoholic - Do you see more women investing in mechanical watches rather than just quartz pieces?
Juhi - Absolutely! More women are investing in mechanical watches, driven by growing awareness, access to information, and a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship. As horology becomes more accessible, women are moving beyond quartz for the artistry and heritage of mechanical timepieces. There’s something magical about wearing a watch powered purely by gears and springs.
Chronoholic - What challenges, if any, do women buyers face when looking for high-end timepieces?
Juhi - Women buyers often face a limited selection of high-complication timepieces, as many brands still prioritize mechanical innovation for men’s collections. There’s also the challenge of overcoming outdated industry perceptions that women value aesthetics over horology. However, as more women engage with watches as collectors and connoisseurs, brands are responding with greater inclusivity—offering sophisticated, mechanically advanced timepieces that blend technical excellence with elegant design.
Chronoholic - What are some trends you’ve observed in how Indian women approach luxury watch purchases?
Juhi - Indian women are increasingly viewing luxury watches as more than just accessories—they see them as investments, status symbols, and expressions of personal style. There’s a growing preference for mechanical & jewelled timepieces, limited editions, and heritage brands, reflecting a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship. Women are also making more independent purchase decisions, prioritizing exclusivity, storytelling, and value over trend driven buys, signaling a shift toward more informed and confident watch collecting. 6. Are you seeing a rise in women purchasing watches for themselves, or are they still mostly bought as gifts?
There’s a clear rise in women purchasing watches for themselves, driven by a growing appreciation for horology and independent decision-making. While watches are still popular gifts, more women are investing in timepieces that reflect their personal style, achievements, and passion for craftsmanship, marking a shift from tradition to self-expression.
Chronoholic - Have you noticed a growing interest in larger case sizes or complicated watches among women?
Juhi - Yes, there’s a definite shift toward larger case sizes and more complicated watches among women. Many are moving beyond traditional dainty designs, opting for bold, statement pieces with mechanical movements, skeleton dials, and high complications. This reflects a growing confidence in personal style and a deeper appreciation for fine watchmaking.
Chronoholic - What would you say to a woman looking to explore the world of horology today?
Juhi - My advice would be to explore with curiosity, seek timepieces that resonate with your personal style, and look beyond aesthetics to appreciate the craftsmanship and innovation behind each watch. Don’t be afraid to experiment with complications, movements, and bold designs. The world of fine watchmaking is no longer defined by tradition alone—it’s evolving, and women are at the forefront of this transformation.
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