Some watchmakers are bringing a joyful change of pace to an industry that often takes itself quite seriously.
We’ve collected some of our favourite pieces that blend serious horology with playful design. Some of these watches are inspired by art, others by culture, and others simply put a flag in a memorable place in time.
Whichever way, they’re guaranteed to raise a smile at every time check.
Omega Speedmaster Silver Snoopy Award
A true collector’s piece, this 50th anniversary watch was dedicated to the award OMEGA received from NASA in 1970 — a prestigious “thank you” for the watchmaker’s role in space exploration.
Snoopy has been NASA’s official safety mascot since 1968, and the “Silver Snoopy Award” is used to mark successful missions.
This timepiece features the famous Snoopy on the subdial, with a 42mm stainless steel case and blue nylon strap. The outcome? One of the world’s most iconic chronographs, combined with one of NASA’s most celebrated stories.
Cartier Crash
Since the 60s, Cartier has played with asymmetry in a way no other watch brand has dared to emulate.
Many Cartier Crash myths circulate in the industry, but the real story behind this playful take on timekeeping is just as interesting as the tales.
The Crash was created in 1967 to channel the surreal, rebellious energy of the Swinging Sixties; it represents the breaking out of the rigid mould of decades gone by. An intentional distortion turned the Crash into a silhouette every watch fan would recognise instantly.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36 (“Puzzle” Dial)
Rolex gave the Day-Date 36 some playful treatment. It features a multi-coloured dial inspired by a jigsaw puzzle, with inspirational words displayed on rotation that help guide the wearer’s day with emotions such as love, happiness, and gratitude.
And if you thought Rolex was too cool for emojis, think again. This timepiece displays icons at 3 o’clock to match the written emotion.
Playful but premium leads the way. This timepiece features hours marked by baguette-cut sapphires, and is available in 18 ct yellow, white, and Everose gold.
Bulgari Serpenti Tubogas
According to Bulgari, the Serpenti Tubogas evokes “both the sensual curves of a woman and the fluid shape of the serpent”.
Instead of fastening, fine metal bands coil around the wrist. Bulgari plays with lines in a truly unique way, while never losing sight of the glamour the brand is built around.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Celebration
In 2023, the Oyster Perpetual grew less serious and found more than a pop of colour.
As the next iteration of a more colourful wave of Oyster Perpetuals, The Celebration Dial showcases a vibrant palette — a turquoise dial scattered with colourful “bubbles”.
It’s the perfect representation of Rolex’s ability to marry tradition with modernity. Available for the 31, 36, and 41mm models.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept “Black Panther” Flying Tourbillon
This graphic, cartoon-style watch proves that Audemars Piguet knows how to have fun.
The futuristic design is the result of a collaboration with Marvel Entertainment, with a dial featuring a sculptural white gold rendition of a black panther — an ode to the superhero. With incredibly detailed craftsmanship, it shows that luxury doesn’t have to be compromised for the sake of play.
This timepiece was used to raise money at auction for educational charity, Ashoka.
Add some play to your portfolio
At Trilogy Jewellers, we can source almost any watch within 24 hours.
From investments to your daily go-to or family heirlooms, our team supports timepiece enthusiasts around the world in achieving their goals.
Book an appointment at our Mayfair showroom or ask about our sourcing service.
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