Pantone may have crowned PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse as the official Color of the Year for 2025, but the watchmaking world has long been ahead of this trend. Shades of warm brown have been a staple in the industry, gracing straps, dials, and even cases.
These rich mocha hues evoke a sense of sophistication, comfort, and natural allure, aligning perfectly with Pantone’s description of Mocha Mousse as a “mellow brown infused with sensorial and comforting warmth.”
This year, Pantone highlights the harmonious blend of luxury and grounded simplicity embodied by Mocha Mousse. While the color is now set to inspire a global movement in fashion and design, it has already been celebrated by watchmakers who understand the timeless appeal of earthy tones.
From supple leather straps in chocolate shades to dials reminiscent of cocoa’s depth and warm rose gold hues, watch brands have consistently incorporated these tones to convey elegance and versatility.
Take, for example, the revival of vintage-inspired timepieces, where mocha dials echo the sepia-toned photographs of yesteryear. Paired with modern materials like ceramic or titanium, this hue finds new life in contemporary designs.
Similarly, brown straps, whether in alligator, calfskin, or nubuck, add a tactile warmth to steel and gold cases, making them suitable for both casual and formal wear.
Here, we take a quick look at a dozen exceptional watches that exemplify the beauty of the many hues of Mocha Mousse. Each timepiece brings warmth, sophistication, and harmony to horological design.