Even in tough times, a watch can be the perfect present – whether it be for the father of the family or a recent graduate. If you do your homework, you can find the perfect gift to celebrate such an occasion. There are literally thousands of good choices out there, but here are just a few to help stimulate your thoughts or point you in the right direction. Each of these timepieces will be a good choice, but there are others of course.

A watch will carry you to next phase in your life, and reflect a person’s personality better than any other accoutrement. Based on their tastes and style, gifting someone with a watch is one of the most lasting, thoughtful gifts to give.

Another benefit of gifting watches – is that this gift does not end with the original wearer. Whether passing down the watch to future generations, or trading with trusted retailers such as Tourneau, there are stories that follow each watch, as assuredly as the passing second hands.

Knowing that we love watches here, below is a guide you to help you in your selection. These do not represent the ONLY brands or styles that are worthy of being such a gift, but are a mere suggestion and starting point for you to conduct your research.

And as we’re all motivated by cost comparisons, the watches are listed within pricing groups, for your convenience.

Below $500

To please a more fashion-savvy, modern dad or grad, definitely check out Nixon. I love this brand. They definitely keep up with the trends, but any age could wear this watch. In fact, I first glimpsed this model on the wrist of an up and coming, socially conscious, green architect in Mill Valley, CA. If it’s hot out there, it’s perfect for anywhere. It’s also available in different metals/colors, if wood is not your thing. Can’t beat the futuristic flexibility of the design – or the $350 price tag.

Here’s a simple, sleek, unisex watch that could work for anyone at any time in their life. Whether it be for your father who may not wear a watch regularly, or your recent college grad who needs a foundation for their collection, the Skagen Oversized Silver case model really has all you need: style – function – and democratically priced at $125.

For a more sporty dad or grad, try out the Tissot T Race watch. Tissot is a great brand for a solid, democratically priced watches that last a long time. A watch like this would definitely transition from interview/boardroom to happy hour/sports night. And at $395, it really is a perfectly priced gift.

$500 – $1,000

To truly show your dad you love him – what better watch to gift than Tag Heuer’s Golf Watch. He will IMMEDIATELY think of Tiger Woods and his father, and the bond they shared. And by gifting such a watch, you are guaranteeing long talks out on the links while your father shows off his pride and joy – the watch and you. Developed and worn by Tiger Woods himself, this is one watch your father, or grad, can actually wear to those golf outings that always come up. And how smart and stylish will he be, perfectly accessorizing with a technological marvel.

For another classy yet moderately priced option, definitely check out the brand Hamilton. I am particularly in love with the Hamilton Jazzmaster Petite Seconde model – in Stainless Steel with Black Dial on Black Leather Strap. This watch makes a serious statement, for any wrist. The subset dial plates for the second hand indicator is a nice complication on this delicately guilloched dial, which will make for years of conversations and admiration. And with the date feature on uniquely located above the 6 o’clock position, whoever wears this watch will have years to learn all the subtleties from this fun brand.

$1,000 – $5,000

The Marcello C. Pegasus Model represents a perfect watch for the perfect day. This is a beautifully manufactured watch, with just enough details to strike up conversations wherever the wearer goes. The Superluminova inserts in the hands make this such a functional and attractive watch. With such a modest price for such a solid watch, any man or woman would be proud to rock this timepiece.

To further appeal to an aficionado’s burgeoning collection, Longines would be a nice throw-back model to gift. This brand, with the handsome face of Andre Agassi immediately eliciting images of strength and competition, is a true classic that happens to be moderately priced. Especially the Longines Sport Collection – Grande Vitesse. This attractive chronograph exhibits watchmaking expertise at its best. And at the price of $2,500 or so, that is truly a steal.

If you are gifting someone who is traditional, classic, and smooth, then Rolex is another perfect option for you. And the wearer, of course. The Explorer Collection would be most symbolic for a college graduate, as they are on to the next phase of their life. But would also fit perfectly upon a father’s wrist. You can’t go wrong with a Rolex, no matter the year, no matter the model. But with the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust Explorer II, you are securing a future filled with success. People trust a Rolex, with the solid engineering and austere of integrity. And as a dynamic and functioning watch, durable beyond belief, this is a gift not only for the wearer, but for future generations to come.

$5000+

To really reward your dad this year, a Patek Philippe is most assuredly the way to go. What father, or any man for that matter, has seen the Patek Philippe “You never actually own a Patek Philippe – You merely look after it for the next generation” and not become emotional. Not even one little tear? Doubtful. Patek Philippe knows its market, and knows that a watch, whether new or handed-down, encapsulates all emotions and well-wishes better than anything else on the planet. So why not reward your dad or grad with a Patek Philippe Calatrava, whether in white or rose gold. This is a throw-back design, reminiscent of simpler times. This design will remain relevant and inspiring, no matter which generation holds it at the moment.

Zenith is an extraordinary brand with designs that transcend ages and tastes. To really set your dad or grad apart from the herd, Zenith’s designs within the Class Collection are perfect, timeless, and definitely gender neutral. Offered in two sizes, 44mm and 40mm, there is a Class Open for everyone. With such a striking yet simple design, this is a watch that will carry your loved one through many phases of their lives, with the exquisite craftsmanship that Zenith is known and admired for to back it up.

I have come to admire Panerai for their unexpectedly handsome designs. Though they seem to fly under the radar, these are truly masculine yet beautiful designs that play perfectly upon men’s wrists. They are instantly strong and powerful, and represent a brand dedicated to precision and time. The Panerai Luminor with Power Reserve is one such intro model that could definitely work for both dads and grads, lending to a life already filled with aesthetics and adventure.

Any of the above watches would be perfect gifts to the men and women in your life, for Father’s Day, Graduation, or any time for celebration. With research and attention to their tastes, this can be a most cherished, life-long gift that will exist beyond the present holiday.

So package it up with a note filled with pride and love – and know that you gave the best gift ever – the gift of time.