All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Whether you’re totally indifferent to King Charles III’s coronation or the sort of person who stands for the National Anthem whenever and wherever it's played, the festivities – and the merch – are unavoidable. But it seems watch fans are getting a better deal than commemorative plate collectors.
With a slew of marques releasing limited editions to celebrate the coronation, three of our favourites come from proudly British watchmakers (obvs), although sadly none decided to make a design feature out of King Charles’ notoriously big ears.
We know the King is a big fan of watches, and we have an idea of what he'll be wearing on the big day, so here's a chance to get yourself some coronation memorabilia that'll actually stand up.
Bremont MBII King Charles III Limited Edition
In the global watch standings, Bremont is probably the most established British watchmaker – at least it is in the Royal Family’s eyes. The late Prince Philip is known to have had a bespoke Bremont pocket watch; Queen Elizabeth’s Jaguar’s rocked some bespoke Bremont car clocks inside, and since 2019 it’s also been the sole luxury watch manufacturer for His Majesty’s Armed Forces. Bremont also provided watches from Matthew Vaughn’s Kingsman films – which is relevant because, you know, Kings-man. Anyway, to celebrate King Charles’ big day, the English brothers have used the iconic Martin-Baker MB range to rustle up a clean and classic 43mm black-dialled looker. The royal purple seconds hand adds a nice point of difference to most black dials and we’re always game for lume-filled hands too. Only 100 pieces are available. £4,495. At bremont.com
William Wood British Coronation Watch
Given the success of William Wood’s bronze Purple Jubliee watch, it’s perhaps no surprise that the founder Jonny Garrett summoned his talented team to go again with a Cory N piece too. “After selling out of all Jubilee Watches, we were receiving enquiries regularly about if we would produce something similar again. That inspired the British Coronation Watch,” says Garrett. And British Racing Green was the obvious choice given it’s instantly recognisable around the world as a quintessential British colour. “We have also never produced a Bronze / Green combination in the past which our customers have pushed for over the years,” he adds. Fear not though, if you miss out on this 41mm green beaut etched with a Union Jack flag (there are only 30), William Wood Watches is releasing a second Series II version in Royal Blue as well. £2,999. At williamwoodwatches.com
Fears Brunswick Au
Fears watches – in an elegantly understated manner – first sat on merry men’s wrists in 1846 when Queen Victoria was the sovereign. First forward to 2023 and King Charles has a Fears Brunswick created in his honour. An honour it is, because the cushion-shaped Fears Brunswick is hands down one of the most chic, quintessential dress watches out there – and this Au one is the most bling of the lot, yet. “The Fears Brunswick Au represents the expansion of our precious metal collection,” says MD Nicholas Bowman-Scargill. “We’ve gone for a subtle way of marking the occasion with a discreet coronation hallmark being placed on the rear of the watch. A beautiful reminder to the owner of the significant event that this watch marks,” he adds. The case is 18ct yellow gold, there’s a diamond set in the winding crown and it’s production is limited to just six pieces per year but they are built to order if you’re happy to be patient and wait. £17,850. At fearswatches.com
