The 3 Watch Collection for $5,000: Kat Shoulders

We as watch geeks often go through certain list in our heads. Yes, you know the ones I’m talking about. The desert island questions that no one else would care about. One watch for the rest of your life….go! I have a list on my phone that if anyone I wasn’t close to ever read, they would certainly think I’m some sort of weirdo. So you can imagine how delighted I was when my new coworkers at Worn & Wound asked me to do a 3 watch collection for $5000 piece. This is the moment I’ve been waiting for.

Zodiac Super Sea Wolf $1295 

While I’m picking these watches out for you, I’m kinda sorta selfishly picking them out for me. And I have got to own a dive watch. No question about it. It defines who I am as a collector. I love steel sports watches and I want them to be as robust as possible. The Zodiac Super Sea Wolf has always been a favorite of mine. While offering incredible style and colorways some brands are afraid to try, they come in at a price point most can afford.

The Sea Wolf 53 Skin in particular is all you could really ever want in a diver. Classic dial, easy to read, 200M water resistant. The watch clearly doesn’t take itself too seriously yet it has the history to back itself up against some of the bigger brands. This steel beauty is 39.5 and sits so perfectly on most peoples wrist. There’s still something magical about a sub 40mm diver I find.

Monta Skyquest $2190

There would be no 3 watch collection if Monta couldn’t be in it. Heck, I’d go as far to say I would pick a Monta as my 1 watch collection if I had to. They are one of my favorite brands and it’s easy to see why once you see one in person. 

I travel a lot for work. Often going from east coast to west coast for photoshoots. I could do the time difference math in my head, but…where’s the fun in that? No, the only answer is I NEED a GMT. Monta fits into the Dressy Tool Watch (yes I said it) category. The quality is just second to none in its price class and I’m just amazed every time I wear mine. I’d pick it over my Rolex any day of the week. 

The execution to detail in this watch is remarkable and it’s not just the things you see, it’s what you feel. There’s just the right heft. The fully articulating bracelet has just the right tolerance. And the bezel has just the right click. It all comes together magically. The brand is currently revamping their Skyquest line and I honestly cannot wait to see what comes next.

NOMOS CLUB CAMPUS $1500

The third and final selection is always the hardest. What else could you possibly need with the two previous stellar picks. What runs through my mind is a watch that could fit in just about every situation. If like me you travel a lot for work, having a single watch you can bring that literally goes with everything is a big plus. But I also want it to be tough. And I want it to look pretty and be stylish (I’m picky, I know). 

The only watch that checks all the boxes (and more) is the Nomos Club Campus. The watch brand has been around since the early 90’s which makes me feel somewhat more connected seeing that we’re just about the same age

The 36mm Club wears a bit bigger due to the long lugs and I find it’s just the ideal size for those with either smaller or larger wrist. The execution of the california dial and bauhaus design end up being just a flavorful combination. As this watch will play the role of daily driver, it’s got to hold up well to the rigors of daily life. So while the watch case is polished, I always found it took particularly well to hold off scratches and the extra 100 meter water resistance is a nice touch. 

Well, those are the three watches I would recommend. I spent just about all of your money. I was never great at saving. But you’re going to have a killer 3 watch collection that won’t leave you wanting for more. Thanks for giving me this opportunity to share one of my desert island lists!