Ten Best Dress Watches: A Gentleman's Guide
Whether you’re looking to elevate your style, or spoil someone special this Christmas to the gift of a lifetime, we’re here to help with our gentleman’s dress watch guide for this year and beyond.
Dress watches have been gifted and treasured over the years for many reasons; birthdays, the start of a new family heirloom, a wedding day gift, or even as a special purchase for yourself. Their sophisticated and elegant style is perfect for special occasions, and if you can’t get enough, then why not dress up your everyday style too?
Find a sentimental timepiece for you or a loved one with our top ten best dress watches. We’ve selected our best dress watches under £500 and our best dress watches under £1,000, so there’s something for everyone on your Christmas list (including you!)
“We’ve got brands that offer the very best in watchmaking, so you can find the ultimate timepiece to treasure.” Bruce, Head of Luxury Watches
What is a dress watch?
So, what are dress watches? Well traditionally, a dress watch is a simplistic timepiece, defined by an elegant steel case or luxurious finishing touches such as gold, mother of pearl or diamonds. They’re traditionally saved for best occasions, but who says you can’t make everyday your best occasion?
How do you wear a dress watch?
How and when to wear a dress watch is simply up to you. Typically, they’re worn with a formal suit or tuxedo due to their low slim profile which allows the watch to sit beneath the cuff of your jacket. Nowadays, a dress watch can be worn with jeans and a t-shirt and still be just as stylish! So if you’re wondering ‘can you wear a dress watch everyday?’ the answer is yes, you can wear it as often as you want to any occasion.
If you want some top tips on how to look after your dress watch, so you can enjoy it for years to come, follow these handy tips on how to take care of your watch.
Dress watches under £500
A good dress watch doesn’t have to be expensive! Discover our best watches under £500 for any occasion from some of the world’s best watch brands.
Emporio Armani Men’s Watch, £179
Simple but effective, the bold black dial on this Emporio Armani contrasts beautifully against the polished bezel and bracelet for a sleek, sophisticated finish. At only £179, you can make a subtle statement of style.
Citizen Tsuyosa Stainless Steel Blue Automatic Watch, £299
When it comes to sleek watches that will stand the test of time, this Citizen Tsuyosa blue watch ticks all the boxes. With a hint of deep blue for an eye-catching finish and a sleek silhouette, perfect for dressing up your smartest shirts, you really can’t go wrong with this Citizen watch. The sapphire crystal glass adds durability for effortless everyday wear and the automatic movement ensures a smooth time telling experience.
Tissot T-Classic Chrono XL Classic Steel and Gold Plated Men's Watch, £430
For when you want to bring a little contemporary style to the table, specially the dinner table, this Tissot T-Classic Chrono XL Classic steel and Gold Plated Watch is the answer. The combination of gold plated tones and stainless steel is a match made in watch heaven and that deep green dial? Mesmerising. The three chronograph sub dials add even more interest to this desirable Tissot watch and adds a sporty attitude that will look just as stylish with a casual jumper than it will with a dinner jacket.
Seiko Presage Blue Moon Automatic Men’s Watch, £349
Offering beauty, quality and long-lasting performance, this Seiko watch boasts a beautiful gradient blue dial and polished case sat on a five-row link bracelet. Simple silver tone hour markers add a sleek finish.
BOSS Reason Men’s Watch and Cardholder Set, £219
We simply can’t stop staring at the emerald green dial of this BOSS Reason Men’s watch. Imagine a sleek flash of this enchanting colour next to a crisp white cuff. Perfection! And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, it also comes with a stylish cardholder set, for designer flair at every moment. Treat yourself or give someone two very stylish gifts in one.
Dress watches under £1,000
Perfect for a family heirloom (or if you just fancy splashing out!), go for the ultimate dress watch with these men’s Swiss watches under £1,000. Embodying the highest possible standard of craftsmanship and precision, these watches boast an air or authority and prestige.
Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles Leather Automatic Men’s Watch, £730
We’re spoiling you with another Tissot watch with this timeless Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles Leather Automatic Watch. For a leather look, this watch is stylish, durable and a must-have addition to your watch collection. The automatic movement offers Swiss precision that you can count on. We’re obsessed with the rich brown tones of the leather strap matched with the deep blue dial.
Bulova Lunar Pilot Quartz Men’s Watch, £599
Taking inspiration from the 1971 Bulova Chronograph which was engineered for the demands of the lunar environment, we’re in love with this Bulova Lunar Pilot Quartz Men’s Watch. Backed with history, style and precision, this watch will certainly be a talking point on your wrist. Just add a sleek suit and you’re good to go.
Hamilton American Classic Intra-Matic Automatic Men’s Watch, £945
Taking you from the office to the weekend in vintage style, this classic Hamilton watch features a deep blue dial and contrasting light brown strap for those traditional vibes. Oh, and it’s also powered by an automatic movement with up to 80 hours power reserve.
For more beautiful blue dials, our blog on the best blue-faced watches is full of inspiration.
Rado Centrix Steel and Rose Gold Tone PVD Men's Watch, £880, was £1,100
Fusing classic style with modern design, this Rado watch has been designed with cutting-edge materials for a timepiece which stays true to the brand’s heritage and innovation. This handsome watch is definitely both forward-thinking and timeless. Oh, and did we mention it’s in the sale and you can save £220?!
Hamilton Khaki Navy Scuba Automatic Men's Watch, £990
For style both on land and under the waves, this Hamilton Khaki Navy Scuba Automatic Men's Watch is the answer. With 300m water resistance, you’ll be ready for style and adventure at every moment with this impressive watch. We love the ceramic blue bezel for an extra pop of colour.
Feeling inspired? Head to our Watch Buying Guide and our Swiss Watch Buying Guide for more help on choosing the best watch. Discover more watch trends for this year and beyond on our blog.
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