Best Men’s Watches: Top 5 Brands Most Recommended By Style Experts

There’s something magnetic about a man who sports a nice watch. It says something about his ability to take good care of himself and prioritize his life. It’s not just about telling time; it’s about making a statement. Each tick speaks volumes about the wearer’s persona, and it’s an accessory that effortlessly screams classy. That’s why we have looked into the best men’s watches to compliment your unique style that offers elegance and high-quality design.

From the intricate mechanics to the impeccable designs, each watch is a testament to art, science, and craftsmanship. There’s a watch for every mood, every occasion, and every personality. Adventure lover? There’s one for you. Minimalist? You’re covered. Every timepiece is a statement, and every man deserves a chance to speak up for himself.

How to Choose the Best Watch

Choosing a high-quality men’s watch can be a daunting task, especially with so many different brands and models on the market. However, there are a few key factors to keep in mind when making your decision.

• Movement: One of the most important factors to consider is the type of movement inside the watch. There are two main types of movements: quartz and mechanical. Quartz watches are powered by a battery and are generally more affordable than mechanical watches. However, mechanical watches are considered to be more prestigious and collectible. They are also more durable and can last for many years with proper care.

• Materials: The case and band should be made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel, titanium, or ceramic. The crystal should also be made from a durable material, such as sapphire crystal.

• Craftsmanship: Look for a watch with a high level of finishing and attention to detail. The case should be well-polished, and the dial should be free of any imperfections.

• Accuracy: While no watch is 100 percent accurate, a quality timepiece will have minimal time deviation. Look for a watch that is certified by a reputable organization, such as the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC).

• Price: Watches can range in price from a few dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping. Keep in mind that a quality watch is an investment that can last for many years.

• Additional Features: In addition to the above factors, you may also want to consider other features, such as water resistance, date display, and chronograph.

Looking to make a statement with your wristwear, gentlemen? StudyFinds compiled the ultimate list of the best men’s watches. The experts have weighed in with their recommendations and here they are. Have a top-notch watch that didn’t make our list? We’d love to hear about it! Comment below and let us know!

The List: Best Men’s Watches, According to Experts

 

1. Patek Phillipe

The number one expert recommendation for the best watches for men is none other than the undisputed champion of watchmaking, Patek Philippe Nautilus. “Interestingly enough, the Nautilus was designed by the famous Gerald Genta who also created the previously mentioned Audemars Piguet Royal Oak,” says SwissWatchExpo. “The watch was named after the submarine from Jules Verne’s novel ‘Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea’ and was designed to be a high-end sports watch that combined luxury and performance.”

Now, brace yourselves because the world of Patek Philippe watches is a menagerie of awesomeness. Another amazing watch from the brand is Gondolo which is also recognized by watch enthusiasts. “Wearing a luxury watch says that you’re dependable and punctual, but wearing a Patek says that you know watches—well. It’s the last family-owned independent watch manufacturer in Geneva, and this holy grail watch brand is known for its mechanical precision and modern supercomplications. Past and present fans include everyone from Andy Warhol to Jay-Z,” shares Forbes.

Patek Philippe watches don’t exactly come with a “bargain bin” price tag but according to Gear Patrol, “We said iconic, not cheap, and the Patek Philippe Nautilus is about as iconic as a tool watch gets. The most representative model, the 5711, isn’t still in production, but it simply can’t be ignored. Its successor, the 5811, currently only comes in white gold, but we’re looking forward to an eventual steel model.”

2. Rolex

Number two on the list is Rolex which has a splash of glamour, and a heaping scoop of impeccable taste. “But perhaps none more so than the Day-Date, the one Rolex that for a while only came in 18k yellow gold, 18k white gold or 18k Everrose gold, the latter being so posh it was Rolex’s own version of gold. Not for nothing is the Day-Date known as ‘the president’s watch.’ A platinum version followed, adding further weight to its exclusivity, in every sense: platinum is hard to manufacture, it costs a fortune and it also made the watch extremely heavy. The new-for-’22 version is the first time a platinum Day-Date has come with a ‘fluted’ bezel (i.e: the ridges around the outside) and is paired with Rolex’s unique ice-blue sunray dial. Available in 40mm and 36mm, it is a really, really lovely watch,” says Esquire.

Let’s talk about the Rolex Submariner – it’s basically the rockstar of the watch world. “Rolex Submariner Kermit Green Ceramic Bezel Mens Watch 126610LV was originally designed as a professional diving watch. Over the years, it has become a symbol of luxury and prestige, worn by everyone from professional divers to movie stars. The original model featured a black dial, rotating bezel, and Oyster bracelet and was waterproof up to 100 meters,” writes SwissWatchExpo.

Another masterpiece of Rolex is Datejust Stainless-Steel Watch. Forbes says, “If taken care of correctly, they will last forever. They’re a worthy investment. Rolex’s iconic Datejust watch has an automatic movement, silver dial, 18k white gold bezel and stainless-steel crown and oyster bracelet. It’s an excellent starter model for today’s watch collector.”

3. Panerai

Panerai’s most adorable Luminor Base Logo model is loved among experts. “Two hands, four numerals, and that’s it for an iconic model of perhaps one of the most recognizable watch brands out there today. This entry-level version, the Base Logo, is all you need to get the basic Panerai experience,” shares Gear Patrol.

Another unique watch in the Panerai Collection is Submersible Quaranta Quattro. “Italian heritage brand Panerai began fine-tuning some of its most famous models—the Radiomir and Luminor—when supplying precision instruments to the Italian Royal Navy in the 1940s. Today, Panerai’s watches—like this Submersible model, introduced in 2022—are marked by cases with pronounced edges and a rugged-meets-refined edge,” adds Forbes.

“Panerai has turned its historic Luminor dive watch into a modern globetrotter’s delight with this new ‘BiTempo’ version, which uses an additional hour hand with a cerulean blue arrow tip to indicate a second time zone. A smaller version of the same keeps track of the 72-hour power reserve, with low-light visibility being taken care of by the maker’s classic ‘sandwich’ dial arrangement whereby ‘lume’ shines through the cut-outs. Choose from sunray blue or matt black, each with a matching alligator leather strap,” points out GQ-Magazine.

4. TAG Heuer

Number four on the list of expert recommendations is Tag Heuer watches and one of the best in collection is the Carrera. “For around-the-clock style, it doesn’t get better than TAG Heuer luxury watches for men. Inspired by the fast-paced world of motor racing, they’re designed to push the limits. After all, you don’t get to be the first watchmaking brand to sponsor the Formula 1 World Championship for nothing! This TAG Heuer three-hand automatic watch boasts a sleek black dial and unique 18k rose gold plated details. Despite having a luxe downtown look, it’s also water resistant up to 100 meters — ideal for beach getaways or laps around the pool,” adds Green Wedding Shoes.

In a world where time is everything, Tag Heuer watches have mastered the art of turning each moment into a masterpiece and the Autavia 60th Anniversary Flyback Chronograph is among them. “Now in its 60th year, the Autavia might not be the best-known Tag Heuer, but it might well be its handsomest watch. A collector’s favorite, the Autavia was semi-rereleased in 2017, but this launch offers three different models: two new chronographs and a three-hand GMT. Pictured here is the flyback chronograph with a silver and black ‘panda’ dial,” says Esquire.

The TAG Heuer is a trendsetter in its unique range of revolutionary watches. “Monaco was the first automatic chronograph to come in a square waterproof case,” shares SwissWatchExpo. “Named after the Monaco Grand Prix, it was designed to showcase the world’s first automatic chronograph movement, the Caliber 11. While the Monaco was already a commercial success, it rose further to fame in 1971 after Steve McQueen wore it in the racing movie ‘Le Mans’. The image of McQueen zipping up his racing suit with a Monaco on his wrist is forever etched in both movie and watch history. The TAG Heuer Monaco is known for its distinctive square case, and the quintessential design comes with a blue dial with red details. Over the years, Tag Heuer has incorporated bold colors, cutting-edge materials, as well as complications, while retaining the square silhouette for which it became famous.”

5. Omega

Finally, number five in the list of expert recommendations is Omega Speedmaster Co-Axial Men’s Watch. “Swiss brand Omega has been the official timekeeper of the Olympics since 1932 and they also supplied watches to the British Armed Forces in the 1940s. Their Speedmaster watch was worn by astronauts on the Apollo 11 mission and its graced the wrists of several James Bonds. As a result, Omegas are typically both sporty and sophisticated,” adds Forbes.

If you’re looking to up your style game and make a statement, consider the humble yet oh-so-awesome men’s watch. “The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M has been around since 1993. With its scalloped bezel, blue wave pattern dial, and supple but robust link bracelet, it was an ode to Omega’s maritime heritage. It entered mainstream consciousness with it was featured on Pierce Brosnan’s wrist in the 1995 Bond film ‘Goldeneye’, officially marking the first time that Bond wears an Omega watch,” shares SwissWatchExpo.

You might also be interested in:

• Best Women’s Watches
• Best Shampoo for Thinning Hair
• Best Men’s Cologne
• Best Men’s Shaving Cream

Sources:

• GQ-Magazine
• GearPatrol
• Forbes
• SwissWatchExpo
• WSJ
• Esquire
• Fashion Beans
• The WatchBox
• Wrist Enthusiast
• Green Wedding Shoes

Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.