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A watch isn’t just a practical tool used to tell time, it’s also a statement piece. What’s a bit different about watches compared to other accessories for women is that watches can be a smart investment piece. With the right purchase, your watch could actually increase in value!
We often hear about men’s watches, but now it’s the women’s turn. Whether you are looking for an everyday timepiece or one worthy of being an heirloom someday, we have a few of the best options on the market for you to consider.
View The Best Watches for Women Below
1. Michael Kors Lady Nini
A few years back, the large Michael Kors watches were the next hottest thing. This is a new take on their watches with a more elegant design. You can take your pick from chain link bands or a beautiful supple white leather band. The watch face will vary a bit in size with each style, but they are about 35-40mm in width.
The round stainless steel case encloses a white or rose gold dial. With quartz movement and 50m of water resistance, it’s an everyday piece and can allow you to transition from day to night effortlessly.
Pros:
+ Quartz movement
+ 50m water resistance
+ Stainless steel band
+ Beautiful color choices.
Why We Like it – While the watch face is large, so for those with larger wrists, it’s actually quite easy to read.
2. Gucci Grip GG Engraved
If brand names are more your taste, then Gucci has come out with a very interesting and unique-looking option. The Gucci Grip line is a unique unisex like that looks good on both men and women’s wrists. With Gucci’s classic logo engraved throughout the face and the band, the watch seems to have a weight scale type look to it.
There is an added little window to display the month as well just to add a special touch. The entire watch is made from steel, to display an even sleeker look. If purchased, Gucci even tags on a two-year warranty.
Pros:
+ Made entirely from steel
+ Gucci Grip line is a unisex line
+ 2-year warranty
+ Unique look
Why We Like it – The sturdy construction of pure steel and the intriguing design are what we like the best. Plus there is a 2-year warranty!
3. Apple Watch Series 5
It’s almost impossible not to include an Apple Watch on our list of most suitable ladies watches. Not only does it sync and connect to your phone and offer real-time notifications, but it also has GPS functions. It is 30% larger than other Apple watches and has an always-on display to give you an easy read of the time and other alerts.
The soft and comfortable watchband is also extremely durable. It is a splashproof and swim-proof option that makes everyday wear easy. Another great thing about Apple watches is customizable bands. When you are tired of one, just switch it out for the next!
Pros:
+ Connects easily to your mobile device
+ It features a 30% larger screen
+ Swimproof
+ Allows international emergency calling
Why We Like It – Apple watches are very comfortable and surprisingly durable. The bands can be switched out to a variety of other options to give you even more style.
4. Chanel Boy–Friend
Slightly higher on the price chart, we have luxury brand Chanel and their Boy – Friend watch. The watch face is pretty much the same, featuring two hands and a window for the date. To give you more options to set yourself apart from the rest, you have your choice of tweed, satin, diamond, alligator, etc strap.
There are also different watch face sizes for you to consider. If you have read through our article on the wrist and watch size correlation, you will know which one to consider. The watch face is also scratch-resistant and the watch has a 42-hour power reserve!
Pros:
+ Different watch face sizes
+ Different strap options to choose from
+ Scratch-resistant surface
+ 42-hour power reserve
Why We Like It – Chanel is a powerhouse fashion brand that always produces top quality in luxury. This watch is no exception with the elegant design and classy lines.
5. TAG Heuer Women’s Formula 1
Much like the Chanel, the TAG Heuer Women’s Formula 1 utilizes sapphire crystal, one of if not the most scratch-resistant materials. The watch operates on a quartz movement with a classic analog display. It also features a date window to help you keep track of the days of the week.
The stainless steel watch is water-resistant up to 100 m, making it suitable for everyday wear and minor water activities. The casual watch from TAG Heuer is 32mm, smaller than a few of the options above and lighter as well.
Pros:
+ Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal
+ Water-resistant up to 100m
+ Stainless steel
+ Quartz movement
Why We Like it – It’s a very classic watch design with modern features. Also very well built, the TAG Heuer Formula 1 is scratch and water-resistant.
6. Versace Women’s Palazzo Empire
This luxury watch is not subtle at all with its design. You can choose from a silver-toned option for a sleeker look or the black and gold option to make a statement. Versace also created many more color combinations for your pleasure. The Swiss-made watch is much larger than the other options presented on the list at 39mm, just 1mm shy of 40.
With the iconic Versace logo (Medusa portrait) located right in the center of the watch face, you will be the talk of the party. The smooth leather strap with the butterfly buckle holds it firmly in place on your wrist.
Pros:
+ Guilloche dial
+ Iconic Versace logo located in the center
+ Stainless steel bezel
+ Soft leather strap
Why We Like It – For that added flair to a monochrome outfit, the Versace Women’s Palazzo Empire watch really does the trick.
7. Ted Baker ‘Kate’ Quartz
The Kate Quartz watch from Ted Baker comes in a variety of colors, with two having an adorable French Bulldog in the background!
Choose from a genuine pastel leather strap for a more toned-down and classic design, or one with a metal mesh strap. When the metal catches the light just right, it glows like a pearl in the moonlight!
Also with accurate quartz movement and scratch-resistant mineral glass, it’s a delicate watch with the durability needed for everyday wear. Wear it for any activity; the watch is water-resistant up to 100ft!
Pros:
+ Metal mesh or genuine leather band.
+ Quartz movement
+ Sleek and ladylike design
+ Water-resistant up to 100ft!
Why We Like It – The analog display with quartz movement gives you the precise time and date. It can be worn for work or play, classic design is a versatile design.
8. Marc by Marc Jacobs Crystal – Accented Rose Gold-Tone
Rose gold is a very trendy color that is more unique than the other metallic colors. The logo bezel is faceted with crystal details for hour markers. The 36mm rose gold stainless steel case and band nicely complements a regular-sized wrist.
For swimming and other water activities, the watch can stay on your wrist thanks to the 50m water-resistance. You can be sure you will receive a ton of compliments whenever you step out of the house with this decorative piece on your wrist.
Pros:
+ Beautifully polished rose gold
+ Stainless steel watchband and case
+ Quartz movement
+ 50m water resistance
Why We Like It – We like the crystal details that perfectly complement the rose gold-tone of the watch, this flashy timepiece will have you looking like the belle of the ball!
9. Cartier Baignoire Automatic Self- Wind 1955
Cartier is a brand that sits high on the pricing chart, which is also what makes Cartier watches a great investment piece. If you possess a smaller wrist, the diamond bezel of the Baignoire measures at only 23mm, making it the perfect size for those with less than 6-inch wrists. The sapphire crystal dial window is scratch-resistant, making it an ideal choice for long-term wear.
Pros:
+ Smaller size, great for those with smaller wrists.
+ Sapphire crystal dial window
+ Water-resistant up to 30m
+ Quartz movement
Why We Like It – Cartier jewelry and accessories are really a great investment. They might cost more but give you a high ROI when reselling.
10. Omega DeVille Tresor Diamond
Although it’s quite a simple design, we feel it just exudes elegance right from the watch face to the strap. With small diamond embellishments on the case with large Roman numeral hour markers, you can get a clear read of the time, but try not to be blinded by the light bouncing off the gorgeous diamonds.
The Swiss-made watch features a fixed bezel and rhodium-plated hands. The quartz movement is accurate with a battery life of 48 months! Measuring at 36mm in diameter, it will fit most average-sized wrists.
Pros:
+ Battery-operated quartz movement
+ Diamond embellishments
+ Fixed bezel with rhodium-plated hands
+ 100 ft water resistance
Why We Like It – The classic design but accentuated with diamond décor on the side of the case is why we love this option. Find cheaper Omega timepieces here.
11. Seksy Swarovski Crystal Bracelet
When ladies think of Swarovski, you think of well-made crystals. The Seksy line is watching each beautifully adorned with authentic Swarovski crystals. From round to square, you can find any shape that suits your heart’s desire.
The imitation diamond crystals are cut beautifully to reflect and refract light in a bunch of angles to set off an unmatched fire and sparkle. Take your pick of different simple but stylish colors, and wear it up to 30m for full waterproof protection.
Pros:
+ Swarovski embellished watches
+ Stainless steel
+ Easily adjustable
+ Waterproof up to 30m
Why We Like It – The partnership with Swarovski gives this Seksy line of watches more edge over the rest. They are also easily adjustable to fit any wrist.
12. Daniel Wellington Petite Melrose
Daniel Wellington makes classic round designs that undeniably elevate your everyday and formal outfits. The 32 mm option from Daniel Wellington sits nicely on your wrist. With the double-plated stainless steel, you won’t have to worry about rusting or corrosion.
The Japanese quartz movement gives unmatched accuracy and the rose gold mesh strap offers a level of elegance unseen on any other watch. Transform your look from day to night effortlessly with the Daniel Wellington Petite Melrose.
Pros:
+ Double-plated stainless steel case
+ Elegant rose gold mesh strap
+ Adjustable length
+ Japanese quartz movement
Why We Like It – The classic Petite Melrose style brings a level of elegance never seen before. It looks great with a daytime look or to complement your outfit for a night out.
13. Olivia Burton Woven Quartz Movement
For those looking for a round and classic look, the large circle watch case of the Olivia Burton Woven ladies watch offers supreme comfort and elegance. The 34mm round watch case is paired with a delicate band that will keep it steady on your wrist. The smooth quartz movement watch is water-resistant up to 10 meters. Normal swimming and washing your hands should be alright but diving or taking showers with it is not recommended.
Pros:
+ Comfortable woven watch strap
+ Smooth quartz movement
+ Water resistance up to 10 meters.
+34mm watch case
Why We Like it – Made with a rose gold finish stainless steel case, it’s an everyday accessory that can be worn to work or at home.
14. Lacoste 12.12 Quartz
Most of you might know Lacoste as a sporty brand, which is why they have a sporty timepiece just for women. The white silicone strap is waterproof, comfortable and won’t weigh down or irritate your wrist.
The crystal mineral surface protects the watch from scratches. A diameter of 38mm is quite wide, but that only adds to the sporty look Lacoste women look for. It’s also water-resistant up to 30m!
Pros:
+ Sporty design
+ Waterproof silicone strap
+ Waterproof up to 30m
+ Lightweight
Why We Like it – For those who are just looking for a sporty design to complement your tennis or golf outfit, this is a great choice.
Watches for Women Buyer’s Guide
What to Look for When Buying the Best Watches for Women
Women and men looking for quite different characteristics when looking for a watch. Aside from aesthetics and obvious quality, what else is there to look for? As mentioned before, a watch can be a great investment piece if you make the right purchase. Other than the brand, let’s take a look at what else you should keep in mind.
Size
The size of your new decorative timepiece depends largely on your wrist. You can find watches as slim and small as 26mm all the way up to 44mm! If you have a delicate and slim wrist, chances are you wouldn’t want to weigh it down with a large 40mm watch. Your choices are limited to the circumference of your wrist. This is speaking from a comfort standpoint. However, if you like the oversized look of a Michael Kors watch on your slender wrist, then, by all means, go for it.
Budget
The next important quality to keep in mind would be the budget. If you want a Rolex that costs over $30,000, that’s your prerogative, however, not everyone can afford that. It’s important to establish your budget beforehand so you could get a clearer idea of what options are open to you. From there you will be able to choose the best one from the condensed list. There are watches available at all prices, from a cheap $10 plastic watch to a Cartier that costs thousands.
Materials
This depends on the look of your watch. Sporty watches may be made out of sturdier material or plastic or silicone. More formal watches suited for eveningwear may be made out of precious metals, stainless steel and even be adorned with diamonds and crystals! For bands, you have more options.
But we must advise you to choose the highest quality material no matter which option you go for. For example, if you decide on a leather watch, go for genuine leather. Choosing a watch case that has replaceable strap options is also a good idea because it opens you up for more selections.
Movement
Quartz movement is the way to go. It’s the most accurate way to keep time. Whether you want it to be mechanical or automatic is also up to you.
Display
Analog or digital is the question. There really isn’t a downside or an upside to either one, it’s more personal preference and which you prefer to read.
Function
What functions would you like your watch to possess? It’s easy to find one that tells time accurately and displays the date. However, if you want diver’s watches with up to 100m or however much water resistance, to military watches that may come with a compass, thinking about the function of your watch is important.
Design
Then there is the design, which depends largely on your preference. Do you like square watches, rectangular ones, or round ones? Perhaps we should decide using broader categories such as elegant, sporty, classy or glamorous?
Crystal
The crystal is the piece of glass that covers the watch face to protect the inner mechanisms. Sapphire crystal watch faces are the hardest and most durable. They will protect the watch from damage and normal wear and tear. Mineral glass may be another type of material you may hear is used to protect your watch. Although it is pretty tough as well, it may crack or shatter under extreme force. Plastic is, of course, the most vulnerable to impact, and is mostly found on cheaper watches.
Types of Watch Styles
We have an introduction to many watch styles you may see on the market, just so you have a better idea of what each one is called.
Smart Watch – These watches can be paired with your cell phone and perhaps even display notifications and monitor your heart rate. The most commonly seen smartwatch is from Apple.
Skeleton Watches – These watches look skeletal, hence the name. It’s as if they were designed for you to have a clear view of their inner workings and mechanisms. More and more luxury brands are loving this style as it brings a bit of the old into the modern world.
Boyfriend Watches – Boyfriend watches were all the rage a couple of years ago. Everyone had a boyfriend watch used to stack with a ton of bracelets. Boyfriend watches, much like boyfriend jeans or blazers, they are oversized.
Floral Watches – You guessed it, floral watches have a floral design on the watch face. The floral print is great for the spring or to complement your girly outfit for Sunday brunch.
Customizable Straps – These are the watch case options that can be paired with compatible straps. Apple watches have a wide variety of watch straps that can be paired with their designs. This way, you can have a new look for every outfit without having to pay through the nose.
Wrap Watches – These options have the long straps that wrap around your wrist. They curl and secure themselves like a snake on a tree branch. The up it factor and offer a layered-look all on their own. Sometimes they can out outmatch even the bracelet style watches in the elegance department.
Bracelet Watches – Speaking of, bracelet watches are the next on our list and among our favorites. A mix of fashion and function, bracelet watches often come with fancy straps that resemble bracelets. This could include chain link straps and ones embellished with diamonds and crystals.
Two-Tone Watches – Two-tone watches possess a color blocking feature. They are usually made up of two (if not more) colors on the strap. This is very commonly seen with chain link watches.
Watch Bands – Choosing between a metal, plastic, leather or ceramic watch band could also alter the style of your watch face and add a new layer of trendiness to your outfit.
Conclusion
So what is it that you are looking for? Which type of watch is your favorite? Perhaps we put a name to your favorite style, making it easy for you to search up different styles online. Keep in mind all the factors to consider before you purchase a watch.
It can be a great investment piece, but only if you put in the work and made the right purchase. Automatically, watches from a luxury brand have a higher resale value, but that isn’t all that counts. Remember that what you like also plays into your final buy.
Did You Know?
Did you know that if the mainspring wasn’t invented in the 15th century, we would not have these devices we call watches nowadays? They are what allowed clocks to become portable, and evolve into what we know as the watch today.
Wristwatches became popular in World War 1 because it was painfully obvious that wearing a watch on your wrist rather than on your neck is much more convenient.
Expert Tip
Unfortunately, not all watches look good on everyone. You need to first measure your wrist to determine which category it belongs to before you are able to find one that matches you. Certain sizes look better on certain wrists. If you need guidance, just refer to our watch guide on how to find the right size.
