When it comes to wardrobe essentials, there’s nothing more important than a good quality t-shirt to build your outfit around. When looking for a t-shirt that is simple and affordable, Japanese brand Uniqlo are at the top of the list. The Uniqlo U crew neck t-shirt is a standard fit staple and the Uniqlo AIRism oversized crew neck t-shirt has quickly become the go-to relaxed-fit t-shirt around the world. In this post, we’ll delve into a few cool watches that work with these modern wardrobe mainstays.
Digital Watch – Casio G-Shock 5610
If digital watches are your thing, look no further than Casio G-Shock range of digital watches. An iconic Japanese brand in their own right, G-Shock watches are known internationally for their functionality, going well beyond just being able to tell the time. One particular example is their historic GW-M5610U-1ER model. Packed inside this model are two incredible features: Tough Solar and Multiband 6.
Tough Solar Charging
For many die-hard G-Shock fans, whether a watch has Tough Solar or not is make-or-break, and for good reason. G-Shock’s Tough Solar technology converts light into power with a power reserve of up to 2 years. Yes, 2 years. Even better, is that it doesn’t matter whether that’s natural or artificial light. The light on your nightstand or even the window sill are viable options when charging the watch up. Unlike other digital or quartz watches that require regular battery changes, this doesn’t. This is a truly self-sufficient watch, making it one of the most reliable watches you’ll ever own. The next, and perhaps coolest function, is G-Shock’s Multiband 6 feature.
Multiband 6 Accuracy
If you’re a perfectionist, setting the time on your watch can be one of the most frustrating parts of owning a watch. Slightly out of sync with the time on your phone? Try again. In a rush? Don’t even bother. Multiband 6 takes swiftness and accuracy to a whole new level. Using a shock-resistant antenna, the watch will automatically synchronise to one of six radio time signals around the world. Worried about accuracy? No need, as according to Wikipedia, the signal is accurate to one second in millions of years. Slightly more accurate than the clock in your kitchen.
Collaborations
If a standard issue G-Shock isn’t your thing, G-Shock regularly collaborates with brands and artists around the world to create their own unique twist on iconic G-Shock models. One of the most famous collaborations are the John Mayer x Hodinkee collaborations (and their infamous resell prices). However, there have been collaborations with brands such as HUF, Bodega and FUTUR that look great but will also catch the eye of fellow enthusiasts.
Aside from being compatriots, G-Shock’s retro looks and modern functionality work effortlessly with Uniqlo t-shirts. Pairing a t-shirt with a G-Shock 5610 model will give you everything you want in a digital watch, plus a few bonus features.
Military Watch – Hamilton Field Khaki Mechanical
If digital watches aren’t your thing, perhaps the next watch will be of interest – Hamilton’s Khaki Field Mechanical watch. The watch comes in two colours but we’re recommending the white dial instead of the black dial this time round. On the face of it, it looks like your classic military watch, which it, well, kind of is. Taking inspiration from Hamilton’s own back catalogue, the watch is inspired by a watch produced during the Vietnam war, the GG-W-133. However, it’s utilitarian design and balanced 38mm diameter of this watch make it an incredibly versatile timepiece and something that will go with most looks.
Hand-Winding Heritage
One feature that sets this watch apart from the other choices today is the movement. The H-50 caliber within the Khaki Field Mechanical is a hand winding movement. Twisting the crown is the watches source of power. 80 hours of power to be precise. The movement is in keeping with the soul of the watch, plus the tactile feel of twisting the crown is incredibly satisfying.
Sapphire Crystal Protection
The H-50 watch movement is paired with a sapphire crystal, making it a much more attractive option than it’s counterparts. Sapphire crystals simply take more of a beating than plastic or even mineral glass crystals. Sapphire crystals are far tougher against scratching, giving peace of mind if you’re usually a little rough with your watches. Much like the G-Shock, this watch can take a beating.
Strap-Swapping Personalisation
Something that the Hamilton does that the G-Shock can’t do – easily, at least – is change strap. The drilled lug holes make it easy to switch to leather or fabric strap for a more refined look. If you want to keep with the military theme, a NATO strap of your choice is a great way to balance the military look with a touch of personality. Failing that, the olive strap that the watch comes with is perfectly usable and comfortable.
All in all, the Hamilton is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for something a bit smaller on your wrist. Whilst being packed with history, there are features that you’d expect to find in watches at a higher price point. Its hand winding movement make it a little quirkier than automatic watches and the sapphire crystal help give the watch more prestige than a cheaper military watch with a plastic crystal.
Sports Watch – Seiko 5 Sports SRPE55K1
The last choice on this list is a return to Japan with the iconic Seiko 5 range. For over 50 years, Seiko’s ‘5 Sports’ series have delivered quality watches with 5 principles: an automatic movement, water resistance, a day/date display, a durable case and finally a recessed crown at 4 o’clock. These watches have gained a strong following as they’re a gateway drug to watches without blowing the bank. For Uniqlo t-shirts, we’d recommend the model SRPE55K1, due to the fact it’s sporty look and reliable automatic movement offer something that the other watches don’t.
Workhorse Automatic Movement
The movement that powers this watch is the workhorse 4R36 automatic movement. This caliber is a mainstay in Seiko’s entry level offering, providing a reliable movement and a 40 hour power reserve at a reasonable price. Seiko claim that in normal conditions, the accuracy of the 4R36 sits within +45/-35s a day. It’s a respectful range, but you’re likely to see a smaller variance as many report their watches being more accurate. The SRPE55K1 also has an acrylic case back, allowing you to see the movement of the watch. If you’re someone who is fascinated with the inner workings of automatic watches, it’s a neat little bonus to be able to take your watch off and see it work its magic.
Stainless Steel Bracelet? It’s Your Choice.
This model also comes with a stainless steel bracelet which sets it apart from our other choices in the article. However, like the Khaki Field Mechanical, you are able to swap it out for another strap of your choice. The stainless steel bracelet is fine, but playing around with straps can add the perfect finishing touch to an outfit.
Refined Look
Lastly, the dial itself is clean, with just the right amount of detail to stop it from looking too cluttered. The matte black finish looks more like a dark grey in the right light and the date window adds a nice pop of colour on the weekend, with blue and red markings for Saturday and Sunday. The watch feels like the most traditional of watches on the list, but it’s classic aesthetic will work well with a Uniqlo t-shirt.
Final Thoughts
All in all, these three options accommodate a range of styles. The G-Shock lends itself more towards a practical style with its accuracy and technical ability. The watch also fills the void for those that want something with a retro vibe. The Hamilton feels classier with its smaller case size and vintage design, leaning towards an accessory than a focal point. The Seiko is a great middle point between the two, with its bold – almost Dad-watch – vibe. On top of that, it also carries a lot of history with the logo on the face. Whatever your style, one of these cool watches is bound to tick your boxes and be the perfect partner for your Uniqlo t-shirt.
1 thought on “Three Cool Watches That Look Great With Uniqlo T-Shirts”