The jewelers of the royal families are an important part of their tradition, of their dynasty and also of a historical legacy that has far more meaning than it might seem. We are more than used to seeing women such as Queen Letizia or Kate Middleton wearing spectacular tiaras that have been passed down from generation to generation, diamond earrings that not only bring light to the face but are full of meaning, and even bracelets that have been converted, repaired or restored into more wearable pieces suited to today’s world.
Passing-down jewelry, for example, from Doña Letizia, is part of our country’s royal tradition and, whenever they are chosen by the wife of Felipe VI, the message is clear. However, there is an accessory that tends to go unnoticed in royalty and that does not usually have a place, especially in elegant outfits. We are talking about the watch, a commonplace accessory in everyday life, but one that is almost never present in the image of the royal style icons.
And what is the reason? Well, although there is no protocol rule saying they cannot wear it, there is an aesthetic and traditional matter in which the watch has no place. It is a more functional than ornamental accessory and considered slightly informal. That is why it is not used at formal events and is never worn with gala dresses.
In fact, it is on this type of occasions when the watch would visually compete with jewelry and, even if it were a proposal, a luxury and exclusive option, the dial, the hands and a strap can disrupt this carefully crafted composition that a tiara or diamond earrings contribute.
On the other hand, in European royal gala attire, the idea has consolidated that certain accessories, such as watches, are more appropriate for daytime occasions. So much so that even men tend not to wear a watch at gala events. It is more common to see men such as King Felipe VI using it in a more casual outfit that fits perfectly with a suit, a shirt and a tie.
Moreover, speaking of tradition, it is assumed that royals do not need to check the time on a regular basis, since they have staff for it and a highly structured schedule. However, despite all this, we have seen royal women wear, on rare and notable occasions, a watch.
Therefore, if you are looking for inspiration to find an elegant piece to wear in your day-to-day, we leave you with those options that reside in the royal jewelers and that exude elegance, minimalism and style.
Queen Letizia
Queen Letizia has been seen wearing this small, steel and square-shaped watch on only a few occasions. It was a gift from King Juan Carlos when her engagement to King Felipe VI was announced, and it is a steel-and-yellow-gold octagonal-cased Lady Royal Oak. You can copy the look with this Fossil Harlow watch, very similar, with a 27 mm dial, a three-hand movement and a two-tone stainless steel bracelet. It costs 179 euros.
Kate Middleton
Kate Middleton has been seen with this Cartier Ballon Bleu watch, which she received from Prince William as a wedding anniversary gift. A round-dial model that we replicate with this Michael Kors Lexington watch of 26 mm, featuring a white dial with a sunray finish, a three-hand movement and a two-tone stainless steel bracelet.
Queen Maxima of the Netherlands
The Queen of the Netherlands has shown her fidelity to Cartier and its treasured Tank, the unisex wristwatch she often wears. There is a perfectly affordable option. It is the Festina On The Square F20774/3 with a stainless steel case and mineral glass, equipped with a leather strap.
