As any seafarer will tell you, the ideal watch cap is soft and warm. It fits snugly at the crown, and it’s long enough to roll the brim multiple ways—up and jaunty or down over ears or back of neck or even over the eyes when you’re able to grab a nap.

Preferably, it’s knitted in black or deep navy, and preferably it’s machine washable and dryable. It should be reversible, and it should easily roll lengthwise to tuck in a pocket.

“This is the one. The right watch cap becomes a joy forever. It’ll sit on top of his head until it gets lost or stolen. You’ll know you have a winner when he doesn’t want to take it off,” said my official sailor tester.“

And he added wistfully, “Do I have to take it off?”

Here it is; you’ve found it: Sugarbush Crisp’s springy superwash DK extra-fine merino has the softness, the warmth, the bounce, the tight dense twist, and the machine washability to make the Ideal Watch Cap. This pattern is guaranteed to do the rest.

Links are given for yarn substitution suggestions and for video tutorials in how to cast on in ribbing and how to work kitchener grafting with three knitting needles. Add to your skill set for really professional beginning and finishing results.