The Evolution of Watch Materials: From Titanium to Bioceramic
Watchmaking has come a long way from lumping steel into circles and calling it a day. Materials today aren’t just about durability — they’re part of the story, the feel, and yes, sometimes the fluffy marketing lingo. But every now and then, the hype is actually backed up with something clever. Here’s a look at what’s shaping the modern watch; quite literally.
Credit - Tudor
Titanium: Lighter Than Air (Almost)
Titanium has gone from aerospace fantasy to wristwear reality. It’s 45% lighter than steel but just as strong, and it’s hypoallergenic, which is perfect if you’ve got a wrist that’s easily offended.
Watch to Know:Tudor Pelagos
Grade 2 titanium case
COSC-certified MT5400 movement
500m water resistance
Price: £4,320
Titanium watches used to be reserved for deep-sea divers and astronauts. Now, they’re the go-to choice for anyone who wants their watch to feel like it’s barely there, but still look like it means business.
Credit - Omega
Ceramic: Scratch-Proof and Smug About It
Ceramic watches have that smooth, polished feel that steel can’t match — and they stay looking brand-new forever. But drop one on the kitchen floor and it might not bounce back. High risk, high reward.
Watch to Know: Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Co-Axial Master Chronometer in White Ceramic
44.25mm white zirconium oxide ceramic case
METAS-certified movement
Exhibition caseback
Price: £11,400 (more art piece than daily beater)
Credit - Tag Heuer & Bamford
Carbon Fibre: F1 Technology on Your Wrist
Once the domain of race cars and cyclists, carbon has hit the watch world hard. It’s light, ridiculously strong, and allows for some mad case designs. But it's not cheap, and it sometimes feels a bit... tech bro.
Watch to Know:Tag Heuer Monaco “Bamford” Edition
Forged carbon case
Calibre 11 automatic movement
Limited edition
Price: £7,000+
You probably won’t need carbon fibre to survive a day at the office, but if you’re looking for wrist presence without the wrist weight, it’s one to consider.
Credit - Swatch
Bioceramic: Swatch’s Big Bet
Swatch invented this stuff — a mix of ceramic and bio-sourced plastic. The result? Watches that are scratch-resistant, lightweight, and don’t cost the earth (figuratively or literally).
Watch to Know: Swatch x Blancpain Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms
Bioceramic case
SISTEM51 automatic movement
90-hour power reserve
Price: £350
Bioceramic won’t impress the Patek crowd, but it does exactly what it says on the tin. It makes fun watches that feel better built than they should at the price.
So, What Material Should You Choose?
Steel is still king for versatility. Titanium if you want comfort. Ceramic if you want something that ages better than you will. Carbon fibre for bragging rights. And bioceramic if you're in it for the vibes.