It’s summertime, folks! As the weather heats up, we will look for ways to cool down, chill out, and maybe even take some time to head to our favorite vacation destinations. If you are reading The Time Bum, then you are doubtless wondering what watches you should take on your summer adventures. Well, look no further because I have prepared your definitive guide to the best summer watches for 2024, organized by activity.
Boating: Vaer R1 USA Oceanracer
Do you hear the call of the sea? Whether you are hoisting the mainsail, firing up the Evinrudes, or fleeing orcas in your dad’s yacht, you will need a suitable timepiece. Yes, you can break out the old Rolex Yacht-Master (especially for that last scenario), but this is The Time Bum, so I would be remiss if I didn’t suggest something that is fun, practical, and a touch more budget-friendly. My choice would be the Vaer R1 USA Oceanracer, a 38mm MechaQuartz chronograph with fabulous color, a choice of several straps or a top-notch jubilee bracelet, and 100m water resistance. You can enjoy the Vaer for $469 and put the rest of your cash into the care and feeding for your preferred watercraft.
Off-roading: Vero Workhorse
Taking your Jeep to Red Canyon this summer? Then bring a Vero Workhorse with you. Vero made this watch to conquer the outdoors. Its 43mm puck case is protected by a tough layer of Cerekote, a pair of rubberized steel bullhorn bumpers, and gaskets sufficient for 120m of water resistance. The Miyota 6S21 quartz movement gives you chronograph complication with grab-to-go convenience. The nylon velcro strap is an absolute treat, offering comfort, security, and all-weather functionality. Get yours at vero-watch.com for $425, and be sure to check out the Forest Service Edition, the Workhorse’s smaller, more colorful, and automatic 3-handed sibling.
Beach: Seaborne Surfer Wavecatcher GMT
Whether you actually surf or just “beach” like Ken, the Seaborne will definitely raise your game. This 39mm NH34 automatic GMT takes a lighthearted approach, with a world timer bezel marked for prime surfing beaches instead of major cities. The dial employs fun colors, bold stripes, and a retro typeface I can best describe as groovy. With its silicone strap, 200m water resistance, and a sapphire crystal and bezel, it will handle even the gnarliest of waves. The Surfer Wavecatcher GMT is $437.97 at Seaborne Trading Company, and 5% of the profits go to preserve coastal ecosystems.
Road Trips: Lōci Pacific Coast Highway
If your summer plans involve a full tank of gas and longing for the open road, then I’d suggest you strap on a Lōci Pacific Coast Highway. No, it isn’t a racing chronograph because you aren’t in a race; you are on a journey. Stop at roadside attractions. Find that hole-in-the-wall diner with the really good tacos. Take that next left and just see where it goes. The Pacific Coast Highway is equipped with either a Sellita SW200-1 automatic for $995, or a Ronda 715 quartz for $645, and 10% goes to preserve endangered places. Whichever you choose, the Pacific Coast’s asphalt black dial with its faded double-yellow lines will remind you that it is all about freedom to roam and the possibility of something new and wonderful around the next bend. As Jack Kerouac asked, “Wither goest thou, America? In thy shiny car in the night?” Get yours at lociwatch.com.
Fishing: Sheffield Allsport 1
Got your rod and reel? Good. Now, you need a watch that can handle water, a bit of abuse, and more fish guts than you probably have bargained for. Just about any dive watch will serve you fine, but I’d suggest something like the Sheffield Allsport 1 quartz. Like Sheffield’s of old, it delivers maximum bang for minimum bucks. It’s got a classic and highly legible layout, a sapphire crystal, 200m water resistance, an FKM tropic rubber strap, and Swiss lume. All in all, it’s everything you could ask for, and if some sea monster pops it off your wrist, you’ll be sad to see it consigned to Davy Jones’ Locker, but you will be able to pick up a replacement from Sheffield for only $108.
Hiking: Venturian Wildsider
Strapping on your boots and backpack for a wander in the woods? Then I suggest also strapping on a Venturian Wildsider, a 38mm titanium field watch with a nylon pass-through strap, and a Seiko Epson VS22B-07 solar movement that soaks up a 6-month charge. This tough and ruggedly handsome watch is good for 100m water resistance, and in a pinch, you can use its compass bezel to get you back on track. The Wildsider is just $349 at Venturian Adventure Watchworks.
