Definitively deciding the most beautiful watches for women proved to be a challenging task. There are thousands of gorgeous models out there, but I managed to narrow it down to just ten remarkable timepieces. My aim was to ensure diversity within the selection, so each brand is represented only once. If you don’t find your favorite watch among our picks, share it with us in the comments. Who knows? Maybe your cherished timepiece will become a new favorite for another reader!
What is a women’s watch?
Before I launch into our top-10 picks, I do have to touch on what women’s watches are. For a long time, women’s watches were really only considered to be uber-feminine timepieces that served more as an accessory than a watch. They tended to smaller than traditional men’s models and covered with as many decorative elements as possible, like gems and precious metals. Now, however, women also gravitate toward unisex watches, and the term has evolved as a result. Not wanting to exclude women with small wrists either, we’ve limited this article to watches up to 38 mm in diameter. So it’s official: These are the most beautiful watches for women.
1. Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Duetto
Though the reversible case on this watch was originally developed for polo players, it took the women’s watch segment by storm. The Art-Deco design retains its stunning harmony even in a compact size, and with the simple system for changing the band, you can seamlessly shape-shift from sporty to elegant. One side of the Reverso Duetto’s reversible case boasts a vibrant dial suitable for everyday wear, while the other showcases a sleek, black dial, tastefully decorated with diamonds. This watch epitomizes versatility like no other, which is why it deserves the top spot.
2. Rolex Datejust
The Rolex Datejust is the crème de la crème of women’s watches. The collection offers an extensive array of styles, diameters, dial colors, designs, materials, and comes with or without diamonds. I’d be very surprised to hear from someone who doesn’t find a model that suits their tastes. The Datejust can effortlessly transition from one occasion to another, looking the part in the office, on the sports field, and at an upscale restaurant. You’ll also never have to leave it behind: With decades of continuous technological advancements under its belt, the Datejust ensures carefree wear with its exceptional accuracy, impressive water resistance, remarkable comfort, and resilience. What more could you ask for?
3. Nomos Tangente
Watches inspired by the Bauhaus style have a minimalist design language that embraces the “form follows function” principle. Meanwhile, timepieces hailing from Glashütte embody the rich heritage and uncompromising standards of German watchmaking. The Nomos Tangente unites these two qualities, combining a purist design with an exceptional movement. It excels in fulfilling its primary purpose, as its streamlined dial is refreshingly easy to read. Simultaneously, its minimalist design, featuring the characteristic elongated lugs, complements any wrist and suits every occasion. The daily act of winding the crown has been known to evolve into a beautiful ritual, offering respite from the fast pace of everyday life.
4. Seiko Classic
Seiko watches are celebrated for their timeless design and exceptional functionality. They are meticulously crafted using high-quality materials, all while staying at an affordable price point. The movements are renowned for their precision, reliability, and longevity. The Classic collection, to no surprise, has classic aesthetics, but still offers a good deal of variety. These timepieces are robust enough to be worn in any setting without worrying about scratches or water damage. Seiko has been known to turn ordinary folks into watch lovers, but even seasoned enthusiasts have huge respect for the brand: Few other watches provide the same carefree experience.
5. Patek Philippe Nautilus
The Patek Philippe Nautilus is one of the most-wanted watches of all time. Its unmistakable design, which resembles a porthole, was the work of legendary watchmaker Gérald Genta. Despite originally introducing stainless steel into the realm of luxury watches, the gold Nautilus edition with a white dial is particularly alluring. This combination accentuates the elegant wave pattern of the dial, a feature typically reserved for women’s watches, with unmatched splendor. Moreover, the Nautilus in gold effortlessly transitions into sporty scenes, making it a versatile accessory.
6. Omega Speedmaster Reduced
This watch technically isn’t a women’s watch, at least in the traditional sense, but the Omega Speedmaster was the first watch on the Moon and there’s no reason to leave that prestige to the men. Size isn’t an obstacle either: paired with a nylon strap, it seems more compact, and the Reduced is actually smaller. By choosing this timepiece, you’re not only getting a legendary chronograph, you’re also investing in a durable, dependable watch that goes great with jeans and elegant evening attire, all the while igniting our imaginations with thoughts of thrilling adventures.
7. Cartier Tank
Cartier introduced the first Tank back in 1917. Since then, the watch, which was inspired by military tanks, has ranked among the most popular dress watches of all time. After all, Cartier’s reputation precedes them as a master of haute joaillerie. Regardless of which version you opt for, the angular shape of the watch with its characteristic lugs turns heads. The Cartier Tank has been spotted on so many celebrities and world leaders. There are different series, movements, and materials to be had, and the Tank is an ingenious dress watch you can make a statement with every day.
8. Vacheron Constantin Overseas
The Overseas series by Vacheron Constantin is undeniably one of their most coveted collections. With its integrated bracelet and distinctive six-sided bezel, it can hold its own with the Patek Philippe Nautilus and Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. Just like its rivals, the Overseas’s appreciation for intricate details, aesthetics, and the art of watchmaking is palpable. Vacheron Constantin’s movements are also among the finest in the industry. However, what really sets it apart is that it comes with three different straps. By switching between the steel bracelet, leather strap, and rubber strap, the watch is resourceful and adapts to the occasion at hand and your mood. It’s basically three watches in one.
9. Blancpain Villeret
Blancpain watches aren’t flashy, but they impress all the same with their first-class quality. Since this watch brand never really got into the quartz watch segment, it excels at automatic movements, including smaller ones for women’s watches. Blancpain’s Villeret collection is a great example: These models have a moon phase indicator and date display (with hands) in an extremely flat case with a diameter of about 33 mm – and legibility isn’t affected. As its design is so restrained, you won’t find it hard to pair it with the majority of wardrobe. It won’t grab everyone’s attention, but enthusiasts with a sharp eye are sure to give you an approving nod.
10. Citizen Eco-Drive
The Citizen’s Eco-Drive line is affordable, reliable, stylish, and environmentally friendly to boot. Eco-Drive technology converts light into energy; whether it’s sunlight or dim artificial lighting, everything charges the watch. And once charged, it will run for six months even in complete darkness. Some models even have radio control, which means the time will be set automatically according to your current location. Thanks to the wide range of models and designs, women are also spoiled for choice. Reducing your ecological footprint, without any compromises – sounds like solid reasoning!
Bonus Watch: Casio F-91wm
So why didn’t I put this Casio model in the top 10, but instead gave it a special shoutout at the end? Because I don’t think this is a top-10 watch, but a watch that every woman should absolutely have. If you want to wear a watch but don’t know if it’s really a good idea, a Casio is the perfect choice. It can handle all extreme situations and always does what it was designed to do: reliably show the time, accurate to the second. At the same time, its design already has cult character, so it really can be worn with anything.
