Inspiration for an outfit can come from seeing a stylish person in the street, simply wanting to wear a new piece – or a particular watch. Generally, the watch is there to match the vibe of the look but it can add an unexpected touch. Personally, I like a timepiece that doesn’t scream for attention but is quietly confident. 

My biggest learning about watches is that your opinion is correct. I don’t mean that you can call a quartz watch an automatic watch. You can’t argue with the facts but you can explore your preferences. Your path into watches can be entirely based on the things you like, which is what makes it unique. I’ve also learnt how fun it is to talk to other people about watches. As soon as you know a little more, you can articulate your own preferences better and understand other people’s too.

My appreciation for watches really ramped up and I’m slowly building my collection. I visited Watches & Wonders for the first time this year – a two-day crash course on complications, escapements and tourbillons, essentially the language of watches. Now I can follow a watch conversation and be interested, rather than feeling completely bamboozled.

First up is the SPB527 Seiko Presage Classic Open Heart in ‘Ai-iro’ Japan Blue. It's the dial that fascinates me most. Inspired by traditional Japanese indigo, a colour prized by Samurai and woven into everyday life across Japan, it reflects the heritage behind the colour’s famous nickname, 'Japan Blue'. I’ve played off the colour of the dial by tying it into a navy blazer, styled with a knit over the shoulders and simple white trousers. A suede bag mirrors the timelessness of the timepiece.

There's something about mid dials I really like and this 36mm Seiko Presage Classic Series SPB523 nails that look. With only the time on display, maximum attention is given to the 'Fushi-iro' dial too. It also features an automatic movement, a stainless-steel construction and a dual-curved sapphire crystal. Here, the brown to cream ombré is reflected in the brown overshirt where the yarns are exaggerated, much like the silk texture in the dial. It’s these subtle details that make the outfit just feel just right.

Finally, I went with the Seiko Presage Classic Series ‘Shiro-iro’ SPB463J1 – the perfect embodiment of the Presage Classic Series: elegant, unfussy, and steeped in Japanese heritage. The cream dial with only the date box to complicate it – along with a stainless-steel bracelet – make it incredibly versatile. The dial also has a slight texture to it, mimicking the soft natural slubs of silk. I’ve styled it here with a blue striped shirt, brown trousers and loafers. 

Given the nature of my job, the aesthetic is often top of the list. I need to feel visually drawn to it before I can be interested in the mechanics, prestige and history. This desire should, however, deepen through these details. I like simplicity and novelty but generally, I prefer dials under 40mm that have a date box. It must feel elegant and look well-built. Vintage details can often make the history more visually clear, which I like too.

My style has developed as I’ve become much more immersed in the fashion industry. I'm much more familiar with brands at every level now, from high-street to independents to luxury. Plus, I’ve started to hone my own idea of elevated style. Turning up to the SLMan office each day forces you to put more thought into what you’re wearing. I’ve decided that I lean preppy, love ties and that footwear can make or break an outfit.