Much has been written about how the ladies are emulating men’s trends in the watch world. This includes not only bigger and more sporty-looking timepieces, but also the increasing focus on movements and complications.

On the other side of the coin, next to nothing is written about how men emulate the trends of women’s watch lines. Sure, the reason why men really wear wristwatches today is because they copied a women’s trend. But since then, I have not come across much in terms of men following women’s trends. Until now, that is.

Recording artist John Mayer is globally known for his music. Never forget that it was John who taught us something about our bodies being a wonderland. But in watch circles, he is also known as a bit of an aficionado. What’s more, he is also a columnist for popular watch blog Hodinkee.

John Mayer

The man is clearly talented, but now we have also discovered that his watch collection is as diverse as his talents. In fact, John has shared his story about how he purchased a Chanel ladies’ watch all for himself.

“In November of 2013, while in Geneva, I came across a watch that really struck me. It didn’t have any complications, nor was it by a brand that I’d owned anything from before. It wasn’t even a man’s watch. The watchmaker was Chanel, and the piece was the ladies Mademoiselle Privé with an embroidered fabric”Camélia brodé" dial.

Finding it hard to justify owning a ladies’ luxury timepiece, I decided to look at it as an opportunity to design something cool and personal around the watch. I reached out to the House of Chanel to ask if they’d be interested in collaborating on a one-of-a-kind presentation box, and they agreed to making one. I submitted my design to Chanel, and last month the finished product arrived at my door.

While you won’t see me sporting the watch at any events, the experience of working with Chanel itself was as satisfying as owning any watch has been. This one wears well in the mind."

Chanel Mademoiselle Privé -Camélia brodé

So Mr. John Mayer admits that he was “struck” by the watch, so much so that he actually bought it. But at the same time he assures us that he would never actually wear it! (Never say never, John.) I suppose his experience with the Chanel Mademoiselle Privé was one more of expressing his artistic talents in accessorizing, by designing the box to go around the watch. But at the same time, the fact that Mayer can buy a ladies’ watch and appreciate it for what it is – a beautifully designed timepiece - says something indeed.

John Mayer’s Chanel display box

Although we still seem far away from men comfortably wearing women’s watches – which is unfair itself because women have less issue wearing men’s watches around their wrists – it seems that we are making small steps towards giving ladies’ watches the respect that they deserve. And in that respect, well done Mr. Mayer! (VJ)