Patek Philippe Grand Complications, 18K Rose Gold, Black Dial, 42 mm

 

If you know, you know. That sentiment is at the heart of the quiet luxury trend, which embodies a sense of timeless elegance without the need for prominent branding. The perfect example? Look at any of the outfits on HBO’s hit series Succession. You will not see the privileged Roy siblings showing off bags stamped with the Louis Vuitton logo or rocking that iconic Gucci belt. Instead, quiet luxury is all about so-called “stealth wealth.”

In other words, an outfit or accessory that evokes quiet luxury looks expensive, but maybe you cannot pinpoint exactly why. You might not even be able to immediately identify the brand, but true fashion connoisseurs will. And that is exactly the point: We are no longer dressing for the masses. We are dressing for the millionaires.

While the styles and themes of the quiet luxury trend are not bold, heading down this path in your own wardrobe and accessories is. When you commit to quiet luxury, you are communicating that, for you, status is implied. The world already knows you have terrific taste, and you do not need to shove it down anyone’s throat with oversized labels and loud prints. Instead, you are living a life of timeless elegance. You are never tacky, flashy, or flamboyant. You are iconic, and everyone knows it.

Of course, no quiet luxury outfit is complete without the perfect watch. Today, we are going to highlight our favorite understated yet endlessly chic luxury timepieces that are made for evoking wealth and taste without saying a word.

 

What Is the Quiet Luxury Trend? 

Quiet luxury is one of the hottest trends in fashion right now, and for good reason. But calling it a “trend” might be the wrong term. Rather, quiet luxury transcends fleeting trends and whatever is currently in vogue. It is the polar opposite of fast fashion. It is all about understated, refined looks that will be just as elegant in 2075 as they are in 2025.

Subtle Sophistication: Loud, logo-driven designs are out, and sophisticated clean lines are in. The aesthetics of the quiet luxury trend are characterized by subtlety. But remember, just because it is understated does not mean it is cheap. On the contrary! The more you spend the better, and the people whose opinions truly matter will be able to tell the difference.

Premium Materials: Quiet luxury looks often contain prestigious materials. Think precious metals, luxury fabrics, and hard-to-source components. You will see cashmere, high-end leather, and fine wool. Diamonds, gold, and platinum are also in vogue.

Neutral Palette: Earth tones are everything when it comes to quiet luxury, although you will also see monochromatic looks and preppy hues like navy and forest green. Cream and caramel are in, neons and jewel tones are out.

Minimalist Aesthetics: Geometric shapes, tailored silhouettes, and clean lines are dominating quiet luxury looks this season. There is no need for over-the-top accessories or “statement” pieces. Instead, quiet luxury focuses on a holistic sense of unification and elegance. It is conveying inner peace, albeit inner peace achieved at a five-star resort and spa.

 

5 Watches That Are Perfect for Quiet Luxury Looks

Adding a high-end watch to your outfit is the perfect way to top off a quiet luxury-inspired ensemble. Here are some of our favorite watches that exude wealth and classiness without leaning toward flashy or overwrought. These pieces are simple yet functional, elegant, timeless, and breathtaking.

 

Patek Philippe Nautilus

The Patek Philippe Nautilus line embodies everything that quiet luxury is all about. A Nautilus watch is instantly recognizable as a premium timepiece, but not because it is emblazoned with a massive logo. Instead, the shape and construction are elevated and unique, meaning that those who know watches will immediately realize the grail piece you have fastened around your wrist.

To channel the aesthetic of quiet luxury, opt for a neutral Nautilus watch in earthy tones. Bonus points for picking a two-tone model like the one below, which can seamlessly integrate with any outfit. We love the combination of steel and 18K yellow gold that make this watch durable and versatile. Plus, the roman numeral hour markers give it a vintage, chic look.

Patek Philippe Nautilus, Steel and Yellow Gold, White Dial, 36 mmPatek Philippe Nautilus, Steel and Yellow Gold, White Dial, 36 mm
Patek Philippe Nautilus, Steel and Yellow Gold, White Dial, 36 mm

Cartier Pasha

We would be remiss to talk about quiet luxury without mentioning Cartier. This much-loved French brand is a favorite of celebrities and style influencers around the world, including many members of England’s royal family. From King Charles III’s Cartier Santos to Kate Middleton’s Cartier Ballon Bleu, there is no end to the iconic looks that come from the house of Cartier.

Looking for a timeless Cartier watch to add to your collection? The Cartier Pasha is an excellent choice if you are trying to channel quiet luxury with a twist. Its round face and 41 mm shape are classic, and the blue sword-shaped hands that the brand is famous for are the cherries on top. Plus, the watch’s openworked architecture gives you a glimpse of the incredible craftsmanship behind this highly desirable piece.

Cartier Pasha, Steel, Skeleton Dial, 41 mmCartier Pasha, Steel, Skeleton Dial, 41 mm
Cartier Pasha, Steel, Skeleton Dial, 41 mm

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak line is a masterclass in understated elegance. Initially unveiled in the 1970s as a line of stainless steel sports watches, the Royal Oak collection has virtually reinvented itself since then, incorporating prestigious materials like platinum and gold as well as diamonds and other gems. However, it holds onto its lineage and tradition, continuing to show off the iconic octagonal bezel that was modeled after a diver’s helmet.

This octagonal shape is exactly what makes the Royal Oak line perfect for a “stealth wealth” look. A Royal Oak watch like the gorgeous rose gold model below is not meant to scream, “Look at me!” Instead, it is meant to subtly catch the eye, leaving onlookers wondering where you found such a classy timepiece. But anyone who is familiar with the world of watches will catch sight of that octagonal bezel and know: This is an investment-worthy watch.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, 50th Anniversary, 18K Rose Gold, Black Dial, 39 mmAudemars Piguet Royal Oak, 50th Anniversary, 18K Rose Gold, Black Dial, 39 mm
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, 50th Anniversary, 18K Rose Gold, Black Dial, 39 mm

Rolex Day-Date

Nicknamed the “president’s watch,” the Rolex Day-Date line has been favored by numerous politicians and international figures of renown throughout the years. The collection is one of Rolex’s upscale dress watch lines, and it features a date display at the 3 o’clock position as well as a day-of-the-week display at the 12 o’clock position. These elegant and timeless watches are sophisticated and chic and have remained coveted by the world’s elite since the line first launched in 1956.

Quiet luxury is not about showmanship, but that is not to say that you cannot have a little sparkle. The diamond-set bezel on this yellow-gold masterpiece is the perfect element of upscale flair without tipping the scales toward flashiness. With an exquisite president bracelet and a champagne dial, this 40 mm timepiece is ideal for wearers of any gender and highlights the incredible capabilities of Rolex’s repertoire.

Rolex Day-Date 40, 18K Yellow Gold, Diamond Bezel, Champagne DialRolex Day-Date 40, 18K Yellow Gold, Diamond Bezel, Champagne Dial
Rolex Day-Date 40, 18K Yellow Gold, Diamond Bezel, Champagne Dial

Patek Philippe Grand Complications

If you really want to flex how much watch you can afford, you cannot go wrong with the hallowed Patek Philippe Grand Complications line. Some of the world’s most expensive watches have hailed from this prestige collection, which is the Swiss brand’s most exclusive line and features maximum complications, functionality, and premium materials. The craftsmanship behind these gorgeous pieces is unmatched, and wearing one on your wrist is a privilege in and of itself.

For instance, take the 18K Rose Gold Grand Complications watch featured below. This masterful creation features a black leather strap and a rose gold case along with a stunning black dial. On the dial, you will find a moonphase display as well as a minute repeater, monopusher chronograph, and perpetual calendar. This impeccable watch is renowned for its technical mastery and incredible artistry, and there is simply nothing else like it. We have to catch our breath when we get the chance to gaze at it, and it is hard to turn away.

Patek Philippe Grand Complications, 18K Rose Gold, Black Dial, 42 mmPatek Philippe Grand Complications, 18K Rose Gold, Black Dial, 42 mm
Patek Philippe Grand Complications, 18K Rose Gold, Black Dial, 42 mm

Shop Luxe Looks at Avi & Co. 

Here at Avi & Co., we can help you find the perfect timepieces to nail the quiet luxury trend (or whatever other styles you are interested in). We specialize in pieces from elite creators like Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Rolex, and Richard Mille. Plus, we also have our own dazzling Avi & Co. watch lines and a new collection of fine diamond jewelry. If you are ready to take your watch collection to the next level, Avi & Co. is the place to turn.

Find us in New York City, Miami, and Aspen at our three boutique locations, or shop our full inventory online. Make an appointment to visit us today.