“If you ever propose,” she said, startlingly early in our relationship, “it had better not be a bloody four-claw solitaire from Tiffany.” Er, right you are, darling.

Admittedly, back then, Laura was still editing venerable trade title, Retail Jeweller, singlehandedly championing Britain’s innovative new wave of designers and retailers. (Which is how I was introduced to ROX, come to think of it.) She also happens to be a strident feminist, which meant that the encroaching, and let’s face it, irresistible possibility of hetero-normative nuptials sat awkwardly with her independent ideals.

Not that I was ever a man who hankered after a Fifties lifestyle of pipe, slippers and dinner in the oven. If I was going to propose, it would have to be with someone as special as Laura (aw) and it would have to be something as thoughtful and unconventional as her own romantic gestures. To my great relief, I pulled it off – to the extent that, and I quote, “it was so romantic, you can get away with not being romantic for the rest of our married life!” (Before you get excited, gents, this is a privilege I’m rapidly learning is most certainly not the case. You keep ROX on speeddial, hear?)

As it transpired, Laura’s career moved on from RJ to doing the same as me, writing about watches as a freelancer. Which soon meant that a wristwatch, rather than a ring, four-claw solitaire or no, became a viable invitation to marry. I just needed to pick one, as well as an appropriately special venue, then work out how to ask her parents (not father – feminism, remember?) for her hand in marriage without her earwigging.

She clearly needed something a little more ‘cocktail’ in her watch wardrobe

The first was easy, as Laura already owned a Bremont Solo for knocking about in, plus a pastel Nomos for breezier days. She clearly needed something a little more ‘cocktail’ in her watch wardrobe – also a handy excuse to lob in a bit of diamond action, as at least one concession to tradition. Laura has always lusted over Zenith, so bingo! An Elite Moonphase it was, bezel set with diamonds, dial and alligator strap both in sumptuous midnight blue, exquisitely crafted mechanics ticking through a clear caseback. I was already in the running for boyfriend of the year, and I hadn’t even got off the sofa…

Next, the venue. I won’t linger on this too long, as my contacts in the luxury industry might have been levered somewhat in securing a private tour of Coco Chanel’s private apartments. But if you take anything from this, it’s two things. First, consider her lifetime passions (Chanel and Paris, in Laura’s case). Second, if in any doubt: Paris. Every time.

Lastly, the hand-in-marriage parents thing. As luck would have it, we were out for Laura’s father’s birthday the evening before we hopped on the Eurostar. So I just waited for her to visit the loo. But even then, it was only a wee, so once I’d blurted out my intentions, she was already back at the table. Linda and Ian had to WhatsApp their blessing the next morning.

Who said romance was dead, eh!

Audemars Piguet
Royal Oak Quartz Watch
63270 | £17,300

Chopard
Happy Sport Watch
67622 | £12,000

Hublot
Classic Fusion Diamond Watch
66407 | £7,900

Tudor
Clair De Rose Diamond Watch
67941 | £1,960

Relax, gents, ROX is on hand to help! Visit one of our boutiques, we’ll ask you all the right questions, and you’ll soon settle upon something she’ll love and (theoretically) say “yes!” to. However, it’s always a good idea to conduct a bit of secretive research in advance. What sort of styles and functions does she prefer and where do you think the gaps are on that dresser top? Is she likely to care about quartz versus mechanical movements? That consideration might already be rendered moot by your budget, but even if you’re prepared to go large and inflict your passion for traditional watchmaking, stop to think whether you’re overlooking a style of watch for the sake of snobbery. Also, it seems frivolous, but what sort of shoes does she wear? Shoes are one thing to a man, but to a woman – just like a watch – they can be empowering, a status symbol, let alone make or break an ensemble. Finally, if you’re in any lingering doubt as to how your unconventional approach to ‘the question’ might be received, do what our editor Alex did, and err on the side of caution: make sure the watch is at least set with diamonds!

Don’t think your other half would appreciate you popping the question with a watch? Don’t panic, here’s our pick of our favourite diamond engagement rings.

ROX Love Diamond Ring 1.22cts
66232 | £11,800
available from £2,495

ROX Honour Diamond Ring 0.71cts
61807 | £5,600
available from £1,995

ROX Adore Diamond Ring 1.05cts
61902 | £10,500
available from £1,995

ROX Crisscut Diamond Ring 1.38ct
68025 | £14,000
available from £4,800

CONTINUE READING

Let us help you capture your story – your past, present and future – with the perfect diamond engagement ring. We carefully handpick each diamond for its superior cut, presence and above all beauty. The remarkable quality of our diamonds is behind everything we do and it’s reflected in our DNA.

Sometimes style is about making a statement. One stand out piece can transform a look and there’s no better way to celebrate your personality than with an outstanding timepiece.

Follow our step by step guide to planning the perfect proposal. With so much to consider, preparing in advance will make it much easier for you.