Holiday Edition: Our Favorite Luxury Watch and Drink Pairings

The year 2020 was a unique year for cocktails. While many of us enjoy a perfectly shaken, stirred, or blended drink at our favorite bar, social distancing prevented many of us from going out for drinks and turned some of us into at-home cocktail connoisseurs.

So when it comes to the official list of the most popular cocktails of 2020, they’re much more about nostalgia and ingredients that you can easily source at home. At the same time, these cocktails are elegant enough to make you feel like you’re sitting at your favorite high-top seat, people-watching and wearing your favorite luxury watch – not sitting at your kitchen counter in sweatpants.

To create this list, we looked at both the most Googled cocktails during the pandemic, as well as the best-selling drinks from the bars that were open. So, sit back, relax, and be sure to save these recipes for later and these watches for your wish-list.

Paloma & Rolex Day-Date President

Rolex Day-Date 118235 Key Features:

Case Size: 36mm

Materials: 18k Everose Gold

Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, Date Display, Day Feature

Dial: Rose w/ Diamond Hour Markers

Bezel: Fixed, 18k Everose Gold, Fluted Style

Crystal: Sapphire w/ Cyclops Lens

Movement: Caliber 3155

Strap/Bracelet: President Bracelet

The Paloma is refreshingly exotic and easy to mix, making it the perfect at-home cocktail for 2020. This drink first graced the top cocktails list in 2017 and it has stuck around ever since – the pairing of tequila, grapefruit, and lime making a perfectly pink, mouth-puckering treat. What we love about the Paloma is that it’s actually quite versatile as you can easily add seasonal ingredients, like pomegranate for the holidays, or substitute your tequila for a more smoky, earthy mezcal.

Because this drink has such a beautiful pink hue, we had to pair it with a beautiful pink gold watch. Of course, the watch of choice is this luxurious, Everose gold Rolex Day-Date President ref. 118235. This Rolex President is a total standout with a matching rose gold dial and 8 round and 2 baguette diamond hour markers. We love this pairing because the President is normally quite a traditional watch, and the Paloma is a traditional drink in Mexico. Additionally, the Paloma is also quite refreshing, just like this extra glamorous Rolex President is with icy diamond-studded dial.

Dark ‘N’ Stormy & Rolex Yacht-Master

Rolex Yacht-Master 268355 Key Features:

Case Size: 37mm

Materials: 18k Everose Gold

Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, Date Display

Dial: Black w/ Luminous Hour Markers

Bezel: Bidirectional, Black Ceramic Insert w/ 60-Minute Scale

Crystal: Sapphire w/ Cyclops Lens

Movement: Caliber 2236

Strap/Bracelet: Oysterflex Bracelet

The Dark ’n’ Stormy has an awesome history. The man who invented it, John Gosling, successfully crossed the Bermuda triangle, landed on the island and began producing rum. Eventually, the Dark ‘n’ Stormy was born – the locals realizing their perfect drink is a mix of Gosling’s dark rum and ginger beer, served with a lime wedge over ice. Over the past few years this drink has had a big resurgence, probably with help from the popular Moscow Mule, which is the same but with vodka.

Because of this drink’s sailing history, it’s only natural that we want to pair it with a watch that is just as native to the sea. This epic Rolex Yacht-Master ref. 268655 is the perfect pairing for the Dark ‘n’ Stormy thanks to its beautiful coloring that pairs a matte, sand-blasted black bezel and black rubber strap with the shimmering Everose case – rather dark and stormy – are we right? Plus, this watch is made to last the treacherous waters of the Bermuda triangle with a rotating timing bezel, powerful Caliber 3235 movement with 70-hour power reserve, and 330 foot water resistance rating.

Bloody Mary & Panerai Luminor 1950 3 Days GMT PAM441

Panerai Luminor GMT PAM 441 Key Features:

Case Size: 44mm

Materials: Black Ceramic

Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, Date Display, GMT Functionality

Dial: Black w/ Luminous Hour Markers

Bezel: Fixed, Black Ceramic Smooth Style

Crystal: Sapphire (Domed)

Movement: Caliber P.9001

Strap/Bracelet: Leather Strap

The Bloody Mary is a classic brunch drink. But, with the pandemic keeping many of us home this year, we missed out on a lot of great Bloody Marys after a long night out on the town. Thankfully, this spicy vodka (or gin) and tomato juice drink is easy to make, and arguably better to make at home. If you’re a Bloody Mary drinker you know it’s all about the garnish – meaning you could make the craziest concoctions at home pairing olives, bacon, celery, pickles, okra, onions, carrots, and more. If you really want to do something different, we love pairing it with cocktail shrimp, salami, or even mini sliders.

Because this drink is so big, bold and in your face, it needs to be paired with a watch that is the same. For this, we love the large, 44mm Luminor 1950 3 Days GMT PAM441 which is outfitted with a luxurious, black ceramic case and classic leather band. Like the Bloody Mary, this watch boasts heritage features like a black sandwich dial and vintage-inspired luminous material. And just like how a Bloody Mary makes you feel invincible after a night of indulgence, the Panerai Luminor 1950 3 Days GMT PAM 441 is incredibly solid thanks to its scratch-resistant case, 3-day power reserve, and 330 feet of water resistance.

Screwdriver & Rolex Explorer II

Rolex Explorer II 216570 Key Features:

Case Size: 42mm

Materials: Stainless Steel

Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, Date Display, GMT Functionality

Dial: Black w/ Luminous Hour Markers

Bezel: Fixed, Stainless Steel w/ 24-Hour Scale

Crystal: Sapphire w/ Cyclops Lens

Movement: Caliber 3187

Strap/Bracelet: Oyster Bracelet

You might be surprised to hear the Screwdriver was one of the most Googled cocktails in 2020, as it is quite simple to make. Consisting of just vodka and orange juice, this classic drink is perfect for those who want a good brunch cocktail, or just need a boost of Vitamin C with a twist. This drink is also incredibly discrete to consume, but we don’t condone drinking on the job! However, that is how this drink got its name – as the legend goes, American oil workers in the Persian Gulf would add vodka to their orange juice while working because it would go by unnoticed. Can you guess what they mixed it with? A screwdriver!

Naturally, we want to pair a Screwdriver with a Rolex Explorer II ref. 214270. Both are simple and built to get the job done. Plus, this Explorer II features one of those coveted orange second/GMT hands to perfectly match your orange juice drink. As for the utilitarian aspects of this tool watch, this Rolex Explorer II can withstand extreme temperatures and read true in light or dark environments. Rugged yet handsome and straightforward, it’s the perfect watch to pair with such a simple and classic drink.

Irish Coffee & Breitling Navitimer 8 B01 Chronograph

Breitling Navitimer 8 B01 Chronograph Key Features:

Case Size: 43mm

Materials: 18k Red Gold

Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, Date Display, 12-Hour Chronograph

Dial: Bronze w/ Arabic Hour Markers

Bezel: Bidirectional, 18k Everose Gold, Timing Marker

Crystal: Sapphire (Cambered)

Movement: Caliber 01

Strap/Bracelet: Leather Strap

Who isn’t guilty of drinking an Irish Coffee this year? There’s really no better way to consume your coffee on the weekend when you’re stressed or just need a little pick-me-up. This drink was concocted by the Irish chef, Joe Sheridan in the 1940s but is a mainstay today, made up of cold cream, hot sweet coffee, and the beautiful warmth of Irish whiskey. We love drinking an Irish Coffee at the airport; however this year, this drink tasted just as good on our couch or out on the deck.

If we’re drinking an Irish Coffee, we’ll be wearing a golden brown Breitling Navitimer 8 B01 Chronograph ref. RB0117131Q1P1. This watch, like the drink, is entirely classic and just oozing with warmth and golden brown coloring. Featuring a stunning 18-carat rose gold case, bronze dial and a crocodile leather strap, this watch will hug your wrist perfectly and compliment the hot, boozy coffee in your hand. Just like an Irish Coffee might help you function better, so does this Breitling with impressive features like a 70-hour power reserve, stopwatch functionality, and water resistance up to 330 feet.

Aperol Spritz & Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Chronograph

Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Chronograph Key Features:

Case Size: 45.5mm

Materials: Stainless Steel

Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, Date Display, 12-Hour Chronograph

Dial: Gray w/ Luminous Hour Markers

Bezel: Unidirectional, Orange Ceramic Insert w/ 60-Minute Scale

Crystal: Sapphire (Domed)

Movement: Caliber 9900

Strap/Bracelet: Stainless Steel Bracelet

You probably already know that the Aperol Spritz is one of the hottest drinks on the planet right now. Not only has this drink grazed countless magazines over the past couple of years, but it’s dominated social media with its beautiful orange hue served up in a large, round goblet. So, it’s no surprise that this quick and easy drink was a favorite this year while we all were stuck at home and in need of something that was fun and refreshing.

So what’s in the Spritz, you ask? This classic drink that hails from the sea-faring city of Venice just needs the orange liqueur Aperol, prosecco, and a splash of soda water over ice and garnished with orange. Because this drink is so defined by its pop of color, we had to pair it with the epic orange bezel of the Seamaster Planet Ocean ref. 215.30.46.51.99.001. Plus, the Planet Ocean is built for a life at sea with resilient features like 600-meters of water resistance, a metal bracelet with wetsuit extension, and a Master Chronometer movement that ensures one of the most precise readings on the market. If you ask us, this is the perfect pairing.

Margarita & Rolex Submariner

Rolex Submariner 126610LV Key Features:

Case Size: 41mm

Materials: Stainless Steel

Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, Date Display

Dial: Black w/ Luminous Hour Markers

Bezel: Unidirectional, Green Ceramic Insert w/ 60-Minute Scale

Crystal: Sapphire w/ Cyclops Lens

Movement: Caliber 3235

Strap/Bracelet: Oyster Bracelet

The classic Margarita is always at the top of the most popular list of cocktails because it’s tart, tangy and simple. We prefer ours over ice rather than blended, as you really get to taste all of the elements of this drink – from the sweet agave of the tequila to the blossoming orange of the Cointreau and the pucker of lime. What makes the Margarita one of the top drinks of 2020 is this simplicity, as you tend to have all these ingredients lying around, ready to be shaken and poured into a glass. Plus, it’s so easy to play around with the Margarita and give it a twist by adding ingredients like pineapples, jalapeños, or mango.

So if we’re drinking Margaritas, we’ll be wearing a green bezel Rolex Submariner Date ref. 126610LV Just like the Margarita, this watch is a true classic but with a twist – the reference 126610LV features the same color profile as the 50th anniversary “Kermit” Submariner, but features a green ceramic bezel and an updated 41mm case. Plus, the green bezel is the perfect accent, just like the lime wedge in a Margarita. We also chose the Submariner 126610LV because like the Margarita, it is extremely popular this year and offers a fresh take on a cherished classic.

Pisco Sour & Rolex Milgauss

Rolex Milgauss 116400GV Key Features:

Case Size: 40mm

Materials: Stainless Steel

Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, Antimagnetic

Dial: Black w/ Luminous Hour Markers

Bezel: Fixed, Stainless Steel, Smooth Style

Crystal: Green Sapphire

Movement: Caliber 3131

Strap/Bracelet: Oyster Bracelet

The Pisco Sour is a bartender classic. However, despite mostly staying away from bars this year, this cocktail remains one of the top drinks of 2020. We guess it’s because of just how bright and tasty this drink is – blending the amber colored brandy called ‘pisco’ with the smack of lime juice and Angostura bitters alongside the soft, pillowy texture of egg whites. For those who filled up their bar cart with a great selection of liquors this year, the Pisco Sour was a fantastic little challenge, requiring just a bit more skill but providing a whole lot more fun for the at-home bartender.

It’s only fitting that we pair a punchy, green Pisco Sour with a watch to match – the Rolex Milgauss ref. 116400GV. This timepiece pops with color, from the green sapphire crystal over the black dial glow to the orange lightning bolt seconds hand and matching hour markers. Like the Pisco Sour, this watch is a bit of a specialty and a ton of fun. Plus, they both have a matching green glow that is entirely irresistible.

Negroni & Rolex Cellini

Rolex Cellini 4111 Key Features:

Case Size: 26mm x 34mm

Materials: 18k Yellow Gold

Functions: Time-Only

Dial: Silver w/ Yellow Gold Hour Markers

Bezel: Fixed, 18k Yellow Gold, Smooth Style

Crystal: Acrylic

Movement: Manual Winding

Strap/Bracelet: Leather Strap

The Negroni is an Italian classic cocktail that shines a deep, red hue thanks to its mixture of gin, rosso vermouth, and ruby red Campari. You always garnish a Negroni with an orange peel and serve it over ice in an old-fashioned or rocks glass. When you hold a Negroni in your hand, you just look and feel classy. This is the kind of drink you should sip slowly, but tastes so good you may not be able to help yourself (and we don’t blame you).

When it comes to drinking Negroni’s, you should always be pairing it with a watch that is just as elegant. Obviously, our first thought was a Cellini, Rolex’s signature dress watch that’s inspired by the famous Italian sculptor. The Cellini has come in many shapes and sizes over the years, but this classic, oblong Rolex Cellini 4111 just oozes with timeless appeal. The combination of the square yellow gold case, silver dial topped with simple hour markers, and a leather strap creates a beautiful appeal that will look handsome sitting on your wrist as you sip your Negroni.

Old Fashioned & Oris Artelier 110 Years Limited Edition

Oris Artelier 110 Years Limited Edition Key Features:

Case Size: 43mm

Materials: 18k Rose Gold

Functions: Time w/ Running Seconds, Power Reserve Indicator

Dial: Silver w/ Gold Hour Markers

Bezel: Fixed, 18k Rose Gold, Smooth Style

Crystal: Sapphire (Domed)

Movement: Caliber 110

Strap/Bracelet: Leather Strap

This drink is always in style, so it’s no surprise this cocktail is one of the most Googled drinks of 2020. With just a few ingredients and its timeless appeal, the Old Fashioned is a great drink to enjoy after a long day of Zoom calls. We recommend sipping one of these stiff drinks in front of a roaring fire while kicking back in a big leather chair. Bars may be closed, but you will hardly feel like you are missing out with a nice Old Fashioned in your hand and a cozy night at home.

The key to an Old Fashioned is its simplicity – rye or bourbon, a sugar cube, Angostura bitters, a thick cube of ice, and a fresh twist of orange. With this in hand, you need a watch just as handsome and with just as much history, like the Oris 110 Years Limited Edition ref. ref. 01 110 7700 6081-SET LS. This watch is outfitted in 18k rose gold, a classic alloy and one that is fitting for this limited-edition watch that celebrates Oris’s history. Beautiful and luxurious, the real party piece of this watch is its in-house Caliber 110 movement that offers users a massive 10-day power reserve. This is one of the most prestigious and sophisticated watches that Oris produces, making it a perfect pairing for the classic Old Fashioned.