Minimalism - it bores me when it comes to decor, but it's great when it comes to watches. One watch that caught my attention was from a Christie's catalogue: it's one of the most original Rolex Oysters in stainless steel. On its matt dial there are no numerals, just two hands and the logo. It's the most basic of watches, yet it's the most elegant. Numerals have their functions, no less aesthetically. But not having numerals often works because the focus shifts to other details such as the skeleton. I can muse over the mechanical details of a watch for hours. How could you not be amazed by the complication of watch movements? It's like a little factory, with components working together to produce power. Skeleton watches are not limited to collectors' items and you don't have to second-mortgage your house for it (of course, you could, should you wish to). Folli Follie has just released some new styles from its ceramic collection, which have stainless steel cases with mineral glass covers and automatic movements such as the Miyota 8N24 (second from top), and a bracelet with white or black details. In summer, the white one goes especially well with light-colour attire or just a simple T-shirt. There's always room for black and, apart from the black ceramic Folli Follie, another favourite is the Zodiac ZO5523 (top) two-eyes chronograph with day function, pure white dial and black rubber strap. Rubber straps are one of the best recent innovations in watch designs. They have a really modern, space-age feel. Leather and metal straps are great, but one needs a change every now and then. Perhaps it's a difficult concept to grasp for men who have been wearing the same Temple Street watch since the Jackson Five, but changing what you wear on your wrist is good for the soul because it makes you feel fresh. If you're bored with yourself (the mirror never lies) and want to spice up your look, a watch is a great starting point - especially something like adidas' unisex Avinyo (bottom). Its unconventional shape adds an edge to the dullest of attires. So if your wardrobe is dire, all the more reason you should have this watch. The oversized rectangular case has a dial on one side and a metal plate with the brand's logo on the other, making it an accessory as much as it is a timepiece. A really dreamy sans-numerals watch I have seen recently is from Fossil. It's a 3-eye chronograph in brushed silver and it has a black dial with white luminescence and blue crystal. It has a decidedly masculine design with a touch of boyishness. The cool blue hue makes it especially suitable for summer. Another example of simplicity at its best is from Emporio Armani: its AR0578 timepiece with rose gold-plated case and black leather strap made to resemble croc skin. The only numerals on the dial are the date, and your attention is drawn to the eagle logo. It suits men who are understated, but also sharp and stylish. It's a watch that can complement your work and party attire. I am generally not a fan of wearing brand name-inscribed fashion items, but one of the few exceptions is D&G's Popular collection of watches. The black piece (second from bottom) is highlighted with D&G engraved on the dial, which is encircled by strass. Just as you would wear ghetto gold for fun, you'd wear one of these watches to add a bit of kitsch to your look. Shopping list Folli Follie: customer hotline, tel: 2295 0028 Fossil, Emporio Armani, Zodiac: tel: 2437 1295 D&G: Time + Style, LCX, Level 1, Fashion Walk, Causeway Bay, tel: 2437 1395. Adidas: Seibu, Langham Place, Mongkok, tel: 2269 1888.
