This Valentine’s Day gift guide is not for the half-hearted. We're talking about gifts with staying power – pieces chosen for craftsmanship, longevity and the sort of considered indulgence that doesn’t expire on 15 February.
From fine jewellery and serious watches to exceptional fizz and thoughtful fashion, these are gestures that feel personal, not predictable.
Harry Winston
Tennis bracelets
The term ‘tennis bracelet’ was coined in 1987, when Chris Evert stopped play at the US Open after her diamond line bracelet snapped mid-match, sending gems skittering across the court.
Defined by a continuous row of perfectly matched stones, its appeal lies in its balance of glamour and restraint – elegant enough for evening, unfussy enough for everyday wear.
Harry Winston creates arguably the world’s finest examples – and its latest collection includes the addition of alternating pink sapphires, blue sapphires and aquamarines to this iconic jewellery staple. Game, set, match.
See more at harrywinston.com
Vacheron Constantin
Overseas Self-Winding High Jewellery
In 2023, Vacheron Constantin opened its iconic Overseas collection to a new audience courtesy of a smaller, 35mm case size and slimmer profile.
Now, the fabled Swiss manufacture has released a high-jewellery version of the same watch in both 18k white gold and 18k 5N pink gold. And when it comes to putting the ‘haute’ in ‘haute joaillerie’, Vacheron isn’t holding back: this is set with no fewer than 1,430 brilliant- and baguette-cut diamonds.
Each model is presented with two additional straps – the first in alligator leather, second in rubber – with an interchangeable buckle also set with… you guessed it.
See more at vacheron-constantin.com
1086 by Nyetimber Rosé 2016
Rosé champagne is the de facto drinks partner to Valentine’s Day – and it doesn’t come much more special than this one. 1086 by Nyetimber is England’s first prestige cuvée – a rich, indulgent expression taking on the likes of Dom Pérignon and Krug in the sparkling wine world’s major leagues.
The 1086 is exclusively produced in exceptional years – and this 2016 release is only the third rosé since the cuvée’s inception back in 2009.
Made from only the best parcels, it’s opulent and indulgent with a long, luxurious finish. Pair with the likes of langoustine or wild salmon to keep the pink theme alive.
£175, nyetimber.com
Alex Monroe
Teeny Tiny collection
London-based jewellery brand Alex Monroe is known for its exquisitely detailed designs, all handmade in England with a commitment to responsible sourcing and sustainability.
The Teeny Tiny collection distils the brand’s nature-inspired icons into delicate solid gold creations – including these Dragonfly Stud Earrings (£450).
While the collection includes investment-worthy 18ct-gold styles, the wider edit spans jewellery at every price point, making it easy to find something personal, considered and enduring. A refined alternative to predictable Valentine’s gifts, with craftsmanship and conscience at its heart.
See more at alexmonroe.com
DIOR
Corner Shop at Selfridges
If you’re still looking for inspiration, head to Dior’s Corner Shop pop-up at Selfridges. Marking the debut collections by new creative director Jonathan Anderson, the space blends Parisian heritage with a playful British spirit – think stacked Dior boxes, whimsical mannequins and a celebratory nod to the art of gift-giving.
Highlights range from personalised notebooks and bookmarks, to statement leather goods, shoes and clothing.
Open until 28 February, it’s well worth a visit – not least because there’s a golden ticket customer draw.
See more at selfridges.com
Mikimoto
Pearl jewellery
The Ancient Greeks believed they promised harmony, the Romans prized them as tokens of purity, and along the way, pearls became shorthand for grace itself. Yet for all the mythology surrounding them, the story of the modern pearl begins with a single, breakthrough off the coast of Japan.
In 1893, Kokichi Mikimoto created the world’s first cultured pearl. More than 130 years later, the maison remains the undisputed authority, accepting only the top 5% of Japan’s Akoya harvests, resulting the house’s signature mirror-bright lustre.
See more at mikimoto.co.uk
