Though they've certainly made a splash in the subcontinent this year, uniquely-crafted timepieces that reflect Indian heritage aren't exactly new. Big-name custom orders and 'maharajah' specials were spread across the 20th century as the ultimate old-money statement, with royals in particular churning their obsession over jewelerry into high horology pieces, freshly delivered to India from the likes of Vacheron Constantin, Rolex and more.
Today, the scene is a bit different. Watchmakers have stepped into the forefront with a host of unique limited editions that channel everything from cricket culture to India's unique geography, wildlife, and even religious symbols—here's a look at some of the hottest India-themed watches to have flown off shelves this year:
Seiko Prospex India Limited Edition 'Forest Green'
Seiko has just unveiled the PSX ‘Forest Green’ India Limited Edition, a stunning tribute to India’s lush evergreen forests that comes just eight months after the brand's 'Made Of Glory' model based on the Seiko 5 Sports series. Limited to 1,000 pieces, this watch captures the spirit of adventure with its forest green dial, LumiBrite indices, and rugged features like water resistance up to 200 meters. Powered by the reliable 4R35 automatic calibre with a 41-hour power reserve, it’s built for durability with a stainless steel case, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and a unidirectional rotating bezel. The watch also includes a stainless steel bracelet and a green silicone strap for versatility.
Frederique Constant Manufacture Classic Heart Beat India Limited Edition
Limited to just 150 pieces, this exclusive mid-year release features the brand's signature open-heart design, showcasing the in-house automatic FC-930 calibre through an aperture at 12 o’clock. The elegant light blue dial, with its striking guilloché pattern, offers a perfect balance of vintage charm and modern craftsmanship (and a certain reference to India's classic sports team colours). Housed in a polished stainless steel case with a sapphire crystal, it offers a 38-hour power reserve and water resistance up to 50 meters, complete with a luxurious brown leather strap.
Raymond Weil Freelancer RW1212 India Limited Edition
Unveiled just about a year ago, Raymond Weil's Freelancer RW1212 India Limited Edition is a tribute to Indian watch enthusiasts, with only 99 pieces crafted exclusively for the Indian market. This limited edition features the iconic open-heart design at 6 o’clock, showcasing the in-house RW1212 movement, while the deep blue dial is uniquely engraved with a subtle India map, paying homage to the country. The blend of rose gold accents on the hands and indices, along with the stainless steel case and blue leather strap, gives the watch a distinct yet refined look, brought together with a 38-hour power reserve and water resistance up to 100 meters.
Jacob & Co. Epic X Ram Janmabhoomi Edition
Jacob & Co.’s Epic X Ram Janmabhoomi Edition is a bold two-edition tribute to Indian heritage, blending luxury with spiritual significance. Limited to just 49 pieces, the watch features an intricately designed dial with a Ram Mandir motif at 9 o’clock and the silhouettes of Lord Ram and Lord Hanuman at 3 o’clock. Below the tourbillon at 6 o’clock, the inscription 'JAI SHRI RAM' adds to its symbolic appeal, reinforced by a saffron-coloured minute ring and baton hand tips, along with the rubber strap. Jacob Arabo, who has made appearances at the Ambani wedding and alongside Salman Khan, continues to honour his connection with India through this creation.
Franck Muller’s Vanguard Slim 'Men in Blue' Special Edition
Franck Muller’s Vanguard Slim 'Men in Blue' Special Edition is a refined tribute to Indian craftsmanship, limited to just 47 pieces, referencing the Indian year of independence. Powered by the FM 2250 automatic movement, this timepiece features a rich blue sunray dial housed in the signature tonneau-shaped case. What sets this edition apart is the use of Devanagari script for the numerals, adding a distinctly Indian touch to the design. The slim profile, along with the blue leather strap, ensures a comfortable fit, while the watch’s elegant blue accents highlight its unique India-specific details.
