Finding the Best Watch Brands for Men
Nowadays, telling the time is as easy as looking at our phone. But there are people, myself included, who still tell the time the old-fashioned way: with wristwatches. They are a great accessory that can become an integral part of your life for years to come.
The watch industry has evolved over the years with the introduction of digital watches and smartwatches. So they may not be as much of a pastime as you think, especially when it comes to men’s watches.
13 Best Watch Brands for Men
With the market growing, you’re probably wondering what the best watches for men are? From luxurious designs to more understated models, there’s plenty to choose from. Take a look with us at 13 of the best watches for men.
1. Movado
Movado was founded in 1881 by Achille Ditesheim in a Swiss watchmaking town called La Chaux-de-Fonds. Ditesheim belonged to a Jewish watchmaking family that owned several businesses in the region.
Movado translates as ‘always on the move ‘, and the company aims tobe ‘the leading company in the watch industry by developing strong brands with the most desirable images’. The company also aims to offer high-quality products with innovative design and high value.
Movado is a traditional watch company with a long history. The brand’s most popular watch is the Museum Classic and it has also developed a smartwatch. Movado watches are best known for the unique metal dot at 12 o’clock and the no-frills style. It is no longer necessarily a luxury watch brand, but it is praised by enthusiasts and watch wearers alike.
Movado watches for men are considered more unique and offer some excellent features. They are also quite minimalistic for people who don’t like flashy watches. In addition, Movado watches are a bit more affordable than other watches from Switzerland. Prices range from $395 to $3,295 and the company also offers a 2-year limited warranty on its products.
2. Seiko
Next in this list of the best watches for men is Seiko, another century-old brand that was founded in 1881. Kintaro Hattori was21 years old when he founded the brand in the center of Tokyo. The brand is “dedicated to perfection ”, which Kintaro always strived for.
Seiko is one of the leading companies in the watch industry. Its catalog is extensive and consists of hundreds of watches from different collections and brands. This includes the Astron, the world’s first GPS solar watch. The company also offers other solar watches, diving watches and the popular Grand Seiko.
Seiko has built up an excellent reputation. Their watches are known for being robust, stylish and well-made, according to public perception. They are even comparable to Swiss watch brands. They are also the brains behind the quartz watches, which provide the most accurate timekeeping due to the lack of friction.
Seiko offers a warranty period through which you can get free repairs or customizations. Their watches can range between affordable and luxurious prices.
3. TAG Heuer
TAG Heuer is a Swiss watch manufacturer that was founded by Edouard Heuer in St-Imier in 1860. Its sporty chronographs are the merit of Edouard, who patented his first chronograph in 1882. He also patented an “oscillating pinion ”, which is still used by chronograph manufacturers today.
The Swiss company has dedicated itself to the “world of sport”, especially racing. Thanks to this commitment, they have created the most accurate timepieces, which have led them to partnerships with Formula 1 drivers.
This is another watch company with a great reputation. In general, their watches are appreciated for their style and value for money. Their watches are precise and they offer many types of watches, from quartz watches to complicated sports watches. Each product comes with a warranty that comes into effect immediately after purchase.
Prices for the best TAG Heuer watches for men can range from $1,000 to $18,000.
4. Patek Philippe
The Swiss watch manufacturers really cut a fine figure in this list of the best watches for men. Patek Philippe was founded in Geneva in 1839 by Franciszek Czapek and Antoni Patek. To this day, the company remains an independent, family-owned manufacturer that has retained its creative freedom.
Patek Philippe explains that the company’s mentalityis embodied in ten different convictions. These include independence, tradition, innovation, quality and fine craftsmanship, rarity, value, aesthetics, service, emotion and heritage. With these pillars, they strive to preserve the heritage and traditions of the brand.
The Swiss watchmakers offer an extensive collection of watch models. They are known above all for their rarity and value . The simplest models can take months to produce, while other complicated models take around 2 years. Basically, manufacturers cannot take shortcuts in the production of their models.
There are more than 100 models available and prices range from 12,000 to 2 million dollars. It is definitely one of the most expensive brands in the world. However, there are some authorized dealers who sell the same products for slightly less money.
5. Skagen
Skagen Denmark was founded in 1989 by Charlotte and Henrik Jorst. The company has been a subsidiary of Fossil since 2012. The company’s aim is to bring Danish culture to other places. The company also attaches great importance to environmental friendliness and social commitment.
Skagen’s men’s watches are generally less popular than those of other brands. However, the general consensus is that their simple and elegant watches are not too intimidating and are a good investment. The brand also offers award-winning Danish models that are praised by experts and consumers.
The brand not only strives for sustainability but also offers quartz watches at an affordable price . The included warranty lasts 2 years and covers product materials and defective parts. Depending on the situation, the company will decide whether to repair or replace your timepiece free of charge. The company also sells jewelry and other accessories.
The men’s watches cost between $155 and $295, so they are definitely a bit more budget-friendly.
Related topics: If you want to know more about Skagen, read our Skagen watches review.
6. Omega
Who wouldn’t want to have the watch that James Bond wears in his movies? Omega is another Swiss watch manufacturer that was founded in La Chaux-de-Fonds in 1848. Louis Brandt launched the brand with pocket watches made from the stocks of local craftsmen.
Today, the brand is a subsidiary of the Swatch Group. The cornerstone of the company is innovative watchmaking, inspired by sports timekeeping and partnerships with NASA, the armed forces and others.
Omega is definitely one of the best-known watch brands. Connoisseurs recommend them for their accuracy and durability. They mainly sell automatic watches with rotor windings. They also offer quartz watches and hand-wound watches .
Omega also offers a 5-year warranty on all of its watches. This covers any manufacturing problems or defects after purchase. The website also states that the company will take care of the watch free of charge if you have any problems during this period.
The general price range for Omega watches is between $2k to $10k.
7. Hublot
Hublot is another Swiss luxury watch manufacturer in this list of the best watches for men. The company was founded in 1980 by Carlo Crocco after he left another watch company. He is responsible for developing the first natural rubber strap in the watch industry.
There is no clear mission statement on the company’s website. However, it appears that the company places great emphasis on craftsmanship, partnerships and the “art of fusion”. They are known for offering some of the most unusual material combinations and unique designs that set them apart from others in the industry.
Hublot watches are another sporty design that seems to resonate well with consumers. However, some experts and watch collectors seem tohate the brand. This is partly because it markets most of its models as “limited edition”, which puts off connoisseurs.
Regardless, the brand offers a 2-year warranty on its models, and prices are in the luxury segment. You can get a watch for a five- to six-figure sum.
8. Bulova
Bulova is an American watch manufacturer founded in 1875 by Joseph Bulova. Founded in New York City, the company’s mission was and is “toproduce timepieces of the highest quality for an ever-changing and dynamic landscape.” The brand builds on this value and continues to evolve through innovation and technology.
The company offers watches for men and women as well as jewelry. For men, there is a wide range of timepieces, including quartz, 2-hand, chronograph, 3-hand and calendar watches.
Due to its long history, Bulova is another respected brand in the watch industry. Their watches are not only precise and fashionable, but also affordable. It is widely recognized that the brand makes good watches. You can even compare them to Movado watches, and they are in a similar price range to Seiko.
Standard shipping is free with Bulova, and they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 3-year warranty. This covers defects in workmanship or materials upon delivery. In this case, the customer service team will endeavor to replace your item with a comparable watch.
9. Breitling
Breitling was founded by Leon Breitling in Saint-Imier in 1884, making it another Swiss brand on this list of the best watches for men. Their mission statement isn’t really clear on their website, but they are a “chronograph specialist ” and were part of the development of the complication. The company claims to be “obsessed with quality”.
Collectors generally consider Breitling to be a reliable and precise brand. The company is also known for developing watches for pilots, astronauts, the military and others.
Breitling offers an international 5-year warranty on manufacturing defects for their mechanical and quartz watches. The company’s products have also been worn by Brad Pitt, Adam Driver and Charlize Theron.
The company offers watches and other accessories. In the men’s watch segment, the company offers nine different collections and more than 100 watches. Prices range from 2,000 dollars to 40,000 dollars.
10. Audemars Piguet
The following Swiss brand on this list of the best watches for men is Audemars Piguet. The watchmaking company was founded in 1875 by Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet. The company has been family-owned since its foundation. The company is best known for the introduction of the Royal Oak wristwatch in 1972.
The company’s values are similar to those of other brands, embodying mastery, innovation and independence. The company offers high-end mechanical watches with features such as moon phase, dual time zones, chronographs and much more. They also offer a 2-year warranty on their products with the option to extend it to 5 years.
In the public perception, Audemars Piguet is considered one of the “big three” in the watch industry. The brand is seen in the watch world as an exclusive and unique manufacturer, superior to other high-end companies.
No specific price is mentioned on the company’s website, but prices are generally in the five-digit range.
11. Apple
The next brand in this list of the best watches for men is known for its smartwatches and other products. Apple was founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak and Ronald Wayne. They started with computers, then expanded into phones, the iPod and more. As of 2021, the company is the most valuable in the world.
Apple’s goal is to provideits customers with thebest user experience with technologically advanced hardware and services. As we have already mentioned, the company offers other products in addition to its smartwatches. These include Mac laptops, iPads, iPhones, headphones and televisions. The company also offers a music streaming service for Apple users.
There’s no denying that Apple is a world-class company. You can’t turn a corner without seeing an Apple product. That’s why the Apple Watch is considered one of the best smartwatch options, especially for iPhone users.
Some collectors even claim that the Swiss watch industry is dying out due to Apple’s innovations. The company has released 7 different series of smartwatches that offer features such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, GPS modes, heart rate monitors and much more.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
12. Timex
Timex is an American clock manufacturer founded in 1854 by brass manufacturers Benedict & Burnham under its original name, the Waterbury Clock Company. They prided themselves on “turning the industry on itshead ” by making their gears out of metal instead of carving them out of wood.
As the company grew, it introduced several innovations and aspired to become “the market leader in high-fashion clocks ”. The company sells watches for men and women as well as bracelets. They also offer a personalization portal.
Timex watches for men are more affordable in price. This makes them a little more popular with the average consumer. Some bloggers also consider them one of the best options if you don’t want to invest in a luxury watch that will break the budget. Plus, it’s an older company that has made a name for itself with durable and simple designs.
The company’s long history has also allowed it to collaborate with several companies. These include playful brands like Peanuts and more high-end artists like Todd Snyder.
Prices for men’s watches generally range from 50 to 850 dollars , depending on the model. You also get a one-year warranty from the date of purchase.
13. Rolex
Last but not least in this best watches for men list is Rolex. Rolex is one of the most coveted and recognizable brands in the industry. It is another Swiss watch company that was founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis.
Rolex’s mission is to produce watches that embody their belief in “excellence, performance, prestige and innovation ”. Essentially, the company aims to provide its customers with watches of the highest quality. It also aims to ensure that the customer always comes first, resulting in satisfied and happy watch wearers.
Since the company is so well known and is always mentioned in pop culture, it is common knowledge that it sells watches. These include sports watches and classic designs that seem to seduce almost every man. So there is no denying that they are a popular brand. Furthermore, Rolex watches are considered to be one of the most reliable watches in the world.
Some people probably wonder what makes Rolex so unique? Well, it generally holds its value instead of going down in price. Plus, there are some perks, including a 5-year warranty. So it’s clear that they are built to last a long time.
When it comes to price, Rolex is a luxury brand. So your total at the checkout can be in the four to five figures .
What Are the Different Types of Watches?
You’re probably wondering now: What are the different types of watches? How do I choose between the best watches for men? Let us answer these questions for you. Choosing a suitable watch for your style can be intimidating. That’s why it’s good to familiarize yourself with the entire selection.
The most popular types of watches include the following:
- Automatic watches
- Quartz watches
- Smartwatches
- Chronograph watches
- Solar-powered watches
- Diving watches
Automatic movements are also known as self-winding movements. Their operation is based on the movement of the wearer’s wrist. Therefore, they do not need to be wound daily to ensure accuracy if they are worn every day.
In an automatic watch, a metal weight is used to power the timepiece. This weight rotates with every movement of your arm and the energy is stored so that it can be used at night or when you are not wearing the watch. An automatic watch can be worn for up to 48 hours.
A quartz watch is battery-operated. It is powered by an electronic oscillator that works together with a quartz crystal. The current causes the quartz crystal to vibrate quickly and precisely. These pulses drive the motor of the watch and enable accurate time measurement. The batteries in these watches need to be replaced occasionally.
Smartwatches are a more recent invention. They can be worn like conventional watches, but of course have different functions. Like smartphones, smartwatches have touchscreens and apps that display calories burned per minute, heart rate and other statistical data. You can also connect these devices to your phone to answer calls and text messages. You can even connect them to your bank cards to make contactless payments.
A chronograph watch or stopwatch is ideal for athletes. It has a built-in timing mechanism that can be automatic, manual or even quartz-powered. It has three main functions, including:
- Start
- Stop
- Return to zero
You can operate a chronograph using the buttons or pushers on the side of the watch. This makes it easy to time races and other sporting events.
The next type of watch is making some waves because of its eco-friendly energy. Solar watches essentially work by converting light energy into electronic energy, much like a solar panel. Once the light energy hits the solar cell, a current is generated which is then passed to the battery where it is slowly released and stored to power the watch.
As a rule, a single full charge is enough to power the watch for months, even if it is kept in a dark place. In addition, you can work with these watches for about 7 years.
Finally, we come to the diving watches. As the name suggests, these watches are designed to be worn underwater. They usually look just as elegant and chic as conventional watches and are water-resistant to a depth of at least 100 meters. They are also magnetic, chemical and shock resistant.
Diving watches should also offer a way of recording the dive time so that divers know how long they have been underwater. This can be a digital timer or a rotating bezel that makes it easy to read the time. Generally, these watches are available as quartz, manual or automatic watches.
Things To Consider When Buying Watches For Men
Like we said, finding the best watches for the man in your life can be daunting. Not only is it important to consider the type of watch, but also other factors such as style, customization options, price, warranties, and more. So let’s talk about some of these factors so you know what to look for.
First of all, style: you know that there are different types of watches, but watches can also be categorized into different categories, such as sports, luxury, casual and vintage. It is important to think about what occasions you normally wear your timepiece.
Are you going to an event with evening wear? Then you should buy a luxury watch made of leather or metal. If you are looking for an everyday companion, a casual watch with a leather strap may be the best choice. If you are an athlete, a sports watch with a robust chronograph is your new companion. The style of the strap can make or break your accessory.
You should also pay attention to which brand helps you stay in the price range you feel comfortable with. A watch from Patek Philippe, for example, may not be suitable for everyday use, but their products can serve as treasured family heirlooms. If you’re on a budget, you can opt for more affordable brands such as Skagen, Timex or even Apple.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, choosing the best watch is a question of personal preference and budget. It’s definitely an exciting purchase that is often only made on special occasions – so it’s important to make an informed decision!
Whether you opt for luxury or simplicity, you’re sure to find the perfect watch to suit all your needs. But it’s important to consider these factors so that you can treat yourself to a functional accessory that will (hopefully!) last a lifetime.