Why are Men Going Back to Toy Watches

Last night I was out for a book launch in Chiltern Street and got talking to two gentlemen whom were both wearing toy watches. One was wearing an actual Toy Watch, the brand that was dissolved in 2016. The other was wearing a retro Casio watch, although he had a Tudor on the other wrist underneath his sleeve. When I asked the gentleman why is he wearing two watches, and why is the cheap toy watch on show, he replied, 'this is London, you just never know. No one is going to mug me for a Casio.'

It's a sad indictment of where we are in society right now. However, it makes total sense. Relieving people of their £50k watch is much easier than stealing a car these days. And I think men are quite happy to have playful nods to retro nostalgia. Sure a black tie event will require your fancy Diver's watch, but a book launch in Chiltern Street is a casual affair that does not require your wrist looking it's Sunday best.

So I wanted to share some men's toy watch brands that can add a bit of colour and playfulness to your outfit.

Toy Watches

The brand looks to be no more, however there is a page set up where you can still buy Toy Watches at a discounted rate. I haven't made any enquiries if the online shop is still active, but the link is on their WIKI page. You can also shop for a few on eBay and Amazon.

Toff Watches

An insanely cheap and tacky toy watch brand that has been reviewed terribly on Amazon. However, I quite like the casino watch gimmick-element. Not everyone can afford an Omega Mr Bond when we rock up to Monte Carlo Casino, but we can all stretch to £50 and have something fun to show at a friend's poker night.

The Original Casio Royale

Yes this is the one that all Bond fans aspire to. Although nicknamed Casio Royale it's more of a frugal version of the Seiko Tracking watch that Bond wears in Octopussy. A very good comparison and detailed analysis of this watch can be found on the Time Bum website. Out of all the retro toy watches for men, this is my favourite and most affordable. On Amazon for £33.

Knight Rider Kit Watch

Take my money now. Ok so these are the kind of watches that will impress your lady friend who has no idea why you're talking into your wrist. Even if she does, she's going to be calling for the cheque before the oysters even arrive. However, the waiter in his mid-forties will be high fiving you and giving YOU the 5 star review.

This is Doctor Collector Knight Rider K.I.T.T. commlink is a men's toy watch, but I love the fact it says it's 'not a toy' on the packaging. Too right. Under £27 currently on Amazon.

Biden Watches

I don't know if this falls under the bracket of men's toy watches, but I like the fact its cheap, but looks like it could be between £150-£200 at a glance. It's dark so it's subtle. It could pass for a client meeting, or if you're a Biden supporter and you want to show your stripes in the upcoming election, just a flash of the watch will tell people all they need to know about you. £21 on Amazon.

Main Photo by Olga Nayda on Unsplash