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Contrary to what you’d gather from walking down any busy street, an Apple Watch isn’t the one look ahead to men to wear. And, very like the opposite Apple gadget sitting in your pocket, it might probably’t replace the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into the perfect watches for men.
Within the grand scheme, some men’s watches are a financial investment. But even then, as much as you must treat it with care, Hodinkee style editor Malaika Crawford suggests that “watches are almost all the time purely decorative or sentimental in value, and you must treat a watch the way in which you’d every other accessory or piece of knickknack.” Although there are a whole lot of special features (and price points) to sift through, there’s no reason to feel intimidated when purchasing for your latest timepiece. “We’d like to do not forget that there isn’t a mental barrier to entry when purchasing watches,” says Crawford. “It’s okay to purchase a watch because you think that it looks nice, versus being functional in any real capability.”
That said, a conventional watch can never exit of fashion. We’ve seen the likes of Tyler the Creator, Tom Cruise, Jay-Z and dozens of other celebrities bring their classic Cartiers out to play; to which Crawford implies this isn’t some big coincidence. “We’re definitely seeing a return to the dress watch,” Crawford explains. “It’s a resurgence of more elegant timepieces which are as a rule vintage, from the likes of Cartier and Piaget.”
There are such a lot of varieties of watches on the market, from drivers and divers to pilots and GMTs, just a few of which you’ll find included throughout the guide. So far as the specialized options go, driver’s watches feature an angular dial for straightforward reading when hands are on the wheel, while pilot’s watches boast ultimate legibility for when it gets too brilliant up there. All in all, while these hyper-specific variations put practicality on the forefront, there’s such an array of timepieces on the market, you’re sure to seek out one thats best for you.
Below, we highlighted quite a lot of the perfect men’s watches that span various price points, styles, and functions.
Top Watches for Men of 2023
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Best Look ahead to Men Under $100
Timex Easy Reader 38mm Watch
Best for: Vintage aesthetic
Materials: Leather, brass
Colorways: Brown/Cream
Special features: Indiglo nightlight
Touted by the brand as “the world’s most perfect watch,” there’s no strategy to ignore the long-lasting Timex Easy Reader. The enduring accessory has featured all the identical elements because the late ’70s, from its minimalist dial to an oiled, water-resistant leather strap. Plus, Timex is not any stranger to pushing the needle within the inexpensive department, as its signature Indiglo dial lends a helping hand at the hours of darkness, serving as a straightforward on-off nightlight. That, along with its 30-meter water resistance, make it a worthwhile pick for under $100.
What testers say: “I’ve owned many Timex watches over the past 50 years and I’ve never been dissatisfied! Top quality and a a lot better watch than other brands for the worth you pay! Very pleased with this purchase and buying directly from Timex the delivery was fast and the worth was higher than in a store! I’ll buy again in just a few years after I wear this be careful”
Price upon publish date of this text: $56
Best Look ahead to Men Under $250
G-Shock GM110BB-1A Watch
Best for: Durability
Materials: Resin band, chrome steel case, mineral crystal
Colorways: Black, Blue, Purple
Special features: 31 time zones, shock-resistance
Casio Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
G-Shock watches have long been known for his or her toughness and resistance to varied conditions. The GM110BB-1A is not any exception, because it is designed to face up to rugged use, including as much as 200 meters of water resistance. Furthermore, its shock-resistant resin case guarantees defense in any environment, while the sturdy mineral crystal is a reasonable alternative to pricier examples with sapphire. These outdoor-ready functionalities, on top of features like a stopwatch and the power to examine different time zones, make this among the finest value men’s watches you will discover.
Price upon publish date of this text: $230
Best Look ahead to Men on Amazon
Orient Stainless Steel Japanese Watch
Best for: Water sports and activities
Materials: Chrome steel, sapphire crystal, leather
Colorways: Blue, Black, White
Special features: Water-resistant as much as 50m
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
This feature from Orient could’ve just as quickly been labeled the “best look ahead to the worth,” because spending under $400 for something that appears so pristine would come as a surprise to many. The inexpensive day-date features the Japanese brand’s F6B24 automatic movement, making it among the finest automatic men’s watches on our list. It’s waterproof to 50 meters, to which its functionality stands out as much as its easy yet elevated aesthetic. When considering its price, look, and purpose, the one thing to complain about is that it’s not eligible for Prime shipping — however it’s definitely worth the wait.
What testers say: “I could possibly be no more pleased with this watch. The main points on the face are clear and thoroughly executed. It’s a phenomenal watch and the coloring is ideal for the style and the match with the watch band. Except for its looks, it keeps perfect time for as much as two days. I couldn’t be more pleased with the standard of the feel and look and regulation of this watch. Very much price the price.”
Price upon publish date of this text: $271
Best Look ahead to Men Under $500
Tissot PRX 35MM Watch
Best for: Luxury look on a budget
Materials: Chrome steel, sapphire crystal
Colorways: Blue, Green, Silver
Special features: Interchangeable bracelet
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
The Tissot PRX is uncannily much like the ever-so-iconic Audemars Piguet Royal Oak watch, deeming it the glitziest alternative you’ll find at a much cheaper price. With water resistance as much as 330 feet, this sleek option from Tissot can be a more cost-effective, quartz-powered version of the Swiss brand’s traditional PRX automatic model. On top of its undeniable inspiration from mid-century examples, Tissot’s popular timepiece boasts an integrated bracelet you may swap out to fit your style or outfit.
Price upon publish date of this text: $326
Best Look ahead to Men Under $1,000
Citizen Tsuki-yomi A-T Watch
Best for: Those searching for a reasonable Moonphase
Materials: Titanium, sapphire crystal
Colorways: Blue
Special features: Day-date functionality
Citizen’s eye-catching array of timepieces almost haven’t any excuse for being as inexpensive as they’re, with the Tsuki-yomi A-T being a shining example — literally. Its “super titanium” encasement frames the brand’s signature H874 Eco-Drive movement, paving the way in which for over two years of power reserve. The fashionable Moonphase watch also contains a perpetual calendar and a whopping 24 time zones, providing you with the world on the back of your hand.
Price upon publish date of this text: $850
Best Look ahead to Men Under $2,000
Doxa Sub 300T Watch
Best for: Timeless look
Materials: Chrome steel case, crystal
Colorways: White, Orange, Yellow, Turquoise
Special features: Helium release valve
Watches of Switzerland Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Doxa’s 3-hand dive watch is a refined spin on considered one of its most iconic examples: the SUB 300T Conquistador. Released under five years ago, the brand’s tribute to this ‘60s-era timepiece is machined from the very best quality 316L chrome steel and finished with a scratch-resistant crystal. Moreover, it features the unique helium release valve and integrated dive time calculator, all of the while offering as much as 1,200 meters of waterproof prowess. Most of all, it’s available in seven striking colours that work with any look.
Price upon publish date of this text: $1,890
Best Look ahead to Men Under $3,000
Oris Aquis Date Relief Watch
Best for: Every day wear
Materials: Chrome steel case, sapphire crystal
Colorways: Red, Black, Silver
Special features: Superluminova BG W9 hands
Mr Porter Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Due to Oris’ signature automatic movement and number of bands, the Swiss brand’s Aquis Date Relief is an incredible configurable diver at this price point. That said, it boasts a dependable 300m water resistance and sleek design, so it’s the perfect of each worlds. Furthermore, the shining chrome steel case assures a sturdy, long-lasting piece. There are several dial options available, including silver, black, and a pop of red.
Price upon publish date of this text: $2,395
Best Look ahead to Men Under $4,000
Bulova Astronaut Accutron Watch
Best for: Long power reserve
Materials: Chrome steel case, sapphire crystal
Colorways: Black
Special features: Day/Night bezel, Super Lumi-Nova hands
Bulova’s revolutionary Astronaut model first hit wrists within the late ‘60s, garnering tons of attention for its bezel’s unique Day/Night design. Many years later, the re-issue serves as the primary release in a latest line of Accutron Astronaut watches. This particular model boasts a highly functioning SW330 GMT movement with precisely 56 hours of power reserve. To complete it off, the black dial boasts a set of Super Lumi-Nova hands for quality legibility in any scenario.
What testers say: “Great design, flawlessly executed. Considered one of my favorite watches.”
Price upon publish date of this text: $3,500
Best Look ahead to Men Under $5,000
Grand Seiko Automatic SBGR307
Best for: Dressy occasions
Materials: Chrome steel, sapphire crystal
Colorways: Silver
Special features: 72-hour power reserve
Grand Seiko values perfection and precision, and the Automatic SBGR307 is an abiding example. It boasts a formidable 72-hour power reserve, which is pretty dependable, considering you’re spending under $5,000 for this particular option. With unwavering attention to detail, this chic dress watch’s ergonomic curve allows it to take a seat comfortably in your wrist, while a tempered-blue seconds hand assists in legibility for the long haul. Function-wise, it’s waterproof as much as 100 meters, much like most examples on this price range.
Price upon publish date of this text: $3,150
Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Duoface Watch
Best for: Duoface dials
Materials: Chrome steel, calfskin
Colorways: Blue
Special features: Two dials
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Mr Porter Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
JLC’s Reverso Tribute Duoface screams elegance and nostalgia, because it’s harking back to a classic 1930’s design. This remarkable timepiece is powered by a manual winding movement that animates two distinct dials, allowing for the display of two time zones and a practical day/night indicator. The front dial features blue hour markers with a sunray-brushed finish, while the reverse dial is silver with a signature “Velvety Clous de Paris” guilloché and applied hour markers. The of entirety? A buttery calfskin band that’s interchangeable.
Price upon publish date of this text: $13,300
Best Cartier Watch
Cartier Santos De Cartier Chronograph Watch
Best for: Luxury watch under $10K
Materials: Satin-brushed silver, sapphire crystal
Colorways: Black/Silver
Special features: Quickswitch interchangeable band system
Eternally revered jeweler Cartier has undoubtedly spent the past few years in a rejuvenation period, even though it never went out of fashion. Since 1847, Cartier has been on the forefront of luxury accessories, and the century-old Santos de Cartier is considered one of the various examples that speaks for itself. With its user-friendly bracelet adjustments, stark hands, and seven-sided crown, there’s virtually no room for error when buying this timeless watch. Having said all that, remember that it’s on the larger side.
Price upon publish date of this text: $7,900
Best-Looking Men’s Smartwatch
Tag Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Watch
Best for: Athletes
Materials: Titanium, Steel, Rubber
Colorways: Black, Blue, Silver
Special features: Google-powered Wear OS, OLED Display
There’s no denying how functional a smartwatch could be, and Tag Heuer’s option is right for those in search of something with a more classic look than an Apple Watch. The sleek Connected Calibre E4 features Google’s latest operating system, assuring a quicker device complemented by several remarkable features. These include a beautiful OLED display, an entire day’s price of battery life, and newly improved sports tracking modes, like as much as five hours of golf assistance. Consequently, it’s a wonderful choice to wear next time you lace up your golf shoes or long-distance running sneakers.
Price upon publish date of this text: $2,050
Rolex GMT-Master II Watch
Best for: Statement piece
Materials: Chrome steel, sapphire crystal
Colorways: Black, Yellow
Special features: Chromalight display, two-color bezel, 24-hour Cerachrom insert
The Rolex GMT-Master is most easily recognized by its chrome steel bezel band, considered one of the distinguished manufacturer’s many famous moves within the watch space. While its functionality takes center stage — most modern in its 24-hour hand and Chromalight display for unwavering readability — this watch’s style factor and overall stature maintains Rolex’s supremacy. All things considered, it’s a worthy investment.
Price upon publish date of this text: $2,459
Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Watch
Best for: Diving and underwater activity
Materials: Chrome steel, sapphire crystal
Colorways: Black, Turquoise
Special features: Super-LumiNova-filled indexes
Omega Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
As a proven leader in watch design, Omega’s catalog has never been anything to scoff at, and so has been the case for over 150 years. Often pitted against the Rolex Submariner, which many tout because the more prestigious option, the Seamaster’s history goes back further than the previous (plus, it’s reportedly way more legible underwater). Lore aside, the Professional Diver 300M has only been around because the early ‘90s and has garnered an enormous following since its release. The watch contains a set of rhodium-plated hands and Super-LumiNova-filled indexes for enhanced readability. Above all else, it’s the far more cost-effective selection between the 2.
Price upon publish date of this text: $8,600
Best luxury Look ahead to men
Hermès Arceau Le Temps Suspendu Watch
Best for: Stopping time
Materials: Chrome steel, leather, sapphire crystal
Colorways: White
Special features: Manual time-stopping movement
Hermès Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
High-end fashion houses have invested way more into watch offerings lately. Crawford mentions that “brands like Louis Vuitton, Hermès, and Chanel are all making highly technical Swiss mechanical watches,” which usually guarantees a watch’s quality through and thru. Nonetheless, Hermès has been doing so for well over a decade, and none of its offerings are as iconic because the Arceau Le Temps Suspendu. This disruptive timepiece was the world’s first-ever watch that might suspend time — together with looking show-stopping.
Price upon publish date of this text: $20,300
What to Consider When Purchasing for a Men’s Watch
- Size: As put plainly by Crawford, “Size definitely matters.” Overall, you must consider a watch in your wrist the identical you’d pants around your waist. “It’s best to all the time consider the diameter in relation to your wrist size. And specs aren’t all the time essentially the most accurate way of knowing what is going to work on you,” Crawford says. Though, some people still prefer an oversized look, as she mentions, “there isn’t a strict rule of thumb.”
- Purpose: For the reason that rise of smartphones, an issue that comes up often is, “Why also have a watch?” While it’s justified, many watches serve various purposes: Black-tie affairs, day-to-day wear, hyper-specific sports, and so rather more. Ultimately, Crawford points out that “It’s also okay to wear watches as decoration.” And, each time doubtful, they make an incredible gift for him.
- Ending and closure: The ending and closure of your watch play a considerable role in its overall feel and look. Pay close attention to the case and band materials, with one common combination being chrome steel for durability and leather for a light-weight feel. So far as the closure goes, you may often choose from a conventional buckle or a contemporary deployment clasp. If you happen to’re trying the watch on in person, make certain it’s easy to lock and secure.
- Price: Very similar to a leather designer wallet, a luxury bag, or sunglasses, price is crucial if you’re out there for a watch. So, set a budget and follow it. Luxurious timepieces are enticing, but countless inexpensive examples still assure nothing in need of quality. It comes all the way down to your priorities, comparable to brand popularity, craftsmanship, or specific features, and balance them along with your price range. Also, don’t forget to account for peskier, long-term maintenance costs, like battery replacements or servicing, which can vary depending on the watch brand and model.
Best Brands for Men’s Watches: Top 10 Luxury Watch Brands for Men
- Audemars Piguet: Think daring, intricate, and iconic designs which were imitated countless times but never to completion. Audemars Piguet, particularly famous for the Royal Oak series, creates high-end watches for many who love refined, edgy styles and top-notch engineering. They’re removed from low-cost, but not the very costliest, with entry-level models ranging from roughly $25,000.
- Cartier: Cartier has been on the helm of watch, jewelry, and accessory-making for well over a century. The French label’s sprawling catalog ranges from timeless classics to modern-chic, a lot of which celebrities have delivered to light lately. Two primary examples include the Tank and Santos watches, that are each a respective icon on this planet of luxury timepieces.
- Girard-Perregaux: Through its mix of history and modernism, Girard-Perregaux designs timepieces are perfect for collectors and those that appreciate classic yet revolutionary designs. Its Laureato and Vintage 1945 collections are favorites amongst watch enthusiasts. While prices actually vary, they provide models catering to different budgets.
- IWC Schaffhausen: Renowned for its precision, IWC Schaffhausen offers a various range of high-quality watches which are suitable whether you’re into classic or contemporary styles. Typically, the Pilot’s Watch and Portugieser lines serve because the Swiss brand’s quintessential examples. You may must dig deeper into your wallet for the latter, however the craftsmanship is price it.
- Jaeger-LeCoultre: As considered one of the few legitimate luxury horology houses in our guide, JLC consistently fuses ageless looks with cutting-edge innovation. Its Reverso and Master (amongst countless others) are a testament to superb craftsmanship. These watches are best suited for many who like a somewhat eccentric look without getting too gaudy. They provide a large price range, so there’s something for each enthusiast.
- Omega: Omega is right for anyone from watch lovers to real collectors. Whether tapping into the Space Race with its Speedmaster in 1957 or taking a deep dive wearing the aforementioned Seamaster, the manufacturer has seemingly seen every corner of the world and beyond. Along with these world-famous examples, we’d be remiss to disregard the hype surrounding its BioCeramic collaboration with Swatch, its parent brand, which surprisingly took resale by storm.
- Patek Philippe: With prices that typically start on the larger side of $30,000, it’s clear that this selection is meant for connoisseurs and serious collectors. Patek Philippe’s watches are parallel to heirlooms that ooze class and quality, with two essential collections being the Nautilus and Calatrava. Expect to make a big investment, but, in return, bask in exceptional craftsmanship.
- Piaget: With its revolutionary, razor-thin movements, Piaget’s Altiplano and Polo collections are as elegant as they arrive. Like many luxury brands on this space, it’s been cranking out remarkable watches because the nineteenth century, and every holds its value to an eye-popping extent. The costs are higher, with the least expensive typically exceeding $10,000.
- Rolex: It’s a reputation that no watch list could be complete without and a brand that simply speaks for itself. From the Submariner to the Daytona and Datejust, Rolex can cater to many audiences, with certain options ranging from lower than $10,000, while others sell at auction for over $15 million. Sure, budgets may vary, but you may all the time rely on nothing in need of popularity and reliability when picking up a latest (or well-worn-in) Rolex.
- Vacheron Constantin: Since 1755, this luxury manufacturer has known no bounds, consistently releasing gorgeous watches that appeal to virtually anyone. Those loyal to the classics may prefer the Traditionnelle by default, while others may look to something just like the Ègèrie moon phase line, which is a more whimsical option that the brand claims “recalls the fragile pleating of silk.” The value difference between these two is slightly drastic, starting from about $19,000 to as much as $107,000, but there are examples available across Vacheron’s catalog that start from around $12,000.
How We Chosen the Best Watches for Men
Since 1910, WWD — sometimes called “the style bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the worldwide women’s and men’s fashion, retail and sweetness communities, while also informing the patron media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage proceed to be a trustworthy resource for each fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors proceed to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
To compose a guide of the perfect men’s watches, we conducted thorough research to find the horology world’s leading timepieces. This included conducting expert interviews, sifting through customer reviews, and emphasizing the aspects that actually determine what makes an incredible watch. Moreover, we accounted for special features and quality craftsmanship, comparable to power reserve, water resistance, and case material. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Expert
Malaika Crawford is a mode editor at Hodinkee, the famed watch publication and e-commerce giant. Prior to her role as editor, she served as a watches and jewellery editor for Highsnobiety.
Meet the Writer
Yoni Yardeni is a Los Angeles-based fashion and culture journalist who has written articles for publications including HiConsumption and Footwear News. Through prior stints, his work ranged from curating buyer’s guides for the style world’s best boots, sneakers and jackets to revisiting Lil Wayne’s quintessential mixtapes and albums. He conducted thorough research to narrow down the market’s best watches for men.
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