Summer is the time of year when you pick “your” color, and watches are no exception. Before we get started, I’ll admit that colorful watch dials and I have, well, a complicated relationship. While there’s no doubt that they always somehow magically grab my attention (it is, after all, my favorite color), when it comes to actually buying a watch, I almost always give the nod to something a little more subdued. I’ve actually had a watch with a yellow dial on my radar for a while now, but the conservative part of me has put the brakes on the actual purchase. In any case, a yellow watch makes an unmistakable statement, immediately grabs your attention, and will be the part of your outfit that shouts “Look at me!”
Why yellow?
A yellow watch will draw everyone’s eye to your wrist – not a bad thing. There’s nothing quite like a head-turning timepiece to start a conversation between two watch enthusiasts. For those of you who aren’t afraid of a touch of yellow on your wrist, take note: yellow is not just plain old yellow. Along with the bright, loud primary color, there are many other shades of yellow, from warm ocher to fresh pastels. There really are enough varieties of yellow to satisfy the individual tastes of every wearer. And who knows? Maybe one of the following watches will be on your wrist this summer.
NOMOS Tangente 38 Date Lemonbiscuit
If you’re like me and looking for a colorful timepiece that looks great with your summer outfits, you should definitely check out what NOMOS has to offer. The cream dial on the 38-mm special-edition Tangente ref. 179.S10 features a lemon-yellow chapter ring, complemented by contrasting bright blue minute markers, indices, and Arabic numerals. This watch is powered by the in-house DUW 4101 caliber with a 42-hour power reserve. The timepiece comes on a light gray textile strap that won’t steal the show from this summery dial. This limited edition of only 175 pieces is already sold out online, so you’re going to have to dig a bit deeper into your pocket beyond its $2,310 list price to own one. Listings on Chrono24 start at around $2,500.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 41
Of course, we have a Rolex on our list. Although known for its more understated designs, the Swiss brand with the crown released its classic Rolex Oyster Perpetual in a number of bright colors in 2020 – including a warm summer yellow. The timeless, elegant case and bracelet design contrasts beautifully with this modern, vibrant dial. It’s really a shame that this particular timepiece has already been discontinued, driving prices up accordingly. However, people willing to pay the current market price of $16,000 for this watch will get a fine piece of Swiss watchmaking with a special summer twist.
Breitling Superocean Automatic 42
The idea behind this stylish diver’s watch dates back to the 1960s, when diving was becoming increasingly popular. That’s when Breitling decided to create a diver’s watch reduced to its most essential functions and optimized for maximum legibility: the Slow Motion. The Breitling Superocean Automatic 42 continues in this spirit while delivering a modern design. The yellow model is available in a stainless steel case, with your choice of a steel bracelet or black rubber strap. It features a 42-mm case diameter and 300 meters (30 bar, 984 feet) of water resistance, making this watch a versatile, reliable wrist companion – not only underwater, but at the pool bar, too. The automatic Breitling 17 caliber has a power reserve of 38 hours. is is a solid all-rounder with retro charm that can be yours for around $4,300.
Glashütte Original Seventies Chronograph Panorama Date
Speaking of retro charm, the Glashütte Original Seventies Chronograph turns heads with its remarkable sand-colored dial (Glashütte calls this color “Golden Bay”), as well as its striking cushion-shaped stainless steel case and integrated bracelet. You can also opt for a version with a rubber strap. This watch features subdials at 3 and 9 o’clock, a panorama date complication, and a 12-hour display, all without crowding the dial. The modern in-house caliber ticking away inside delivers an impressive 70-hour power reserve, and you can watch it work through the sapphire crystal case back. This watch is limited to just 100 pieces worldwide, so expect prices for the steel bracelet model to be well above the $15,300 list price.
Omega Speedmaster Michael Schumacher
The Omega Speedmaster is known by many watch lovers as the first watch on the Moon. However, like TAG Heuer and Rolex chronographs, the Speedmaster also looks back on an accomplished racing heritage, as seen for instance with the Omega Speedmaster Reduced Michael Schumacher. The Formula 1 racing legend himself launched this timepiece in 1996 in the town of Kerpen, Germany, at the go-kart track where he first honed his racing skills. This watch is available in yellow and bright red, which are used for the dial, subdials, and leather strap. This is an Omega that’s sure to attract a lot of attention and bring a piece of racing history to your wrist. A complete set with box and papers can be yours for just under $3,600 on Chrono24.
