Whether you're refreshing your own wristwear, or hunting for a special gift for the woman in your life, a beautiful watch is a timeless piece that never goes out of style. From sleek everyday classics to statement designs, the right watch is the one piece of jewellery that fits with everything.
A watch is a classic everyday wear that can be as pretty as it can be practical. For some of us, they're there to make a fashion moment with brands like Michael Kors and Olivia Burton offering up stylish designs, while others rely on their smart watch for every single daily activity. Bracelet watches are some of the most in demand styles for this year, and you can find watches in gold, silver, rose gold, and more.
- Silver watch: Abbott Lyon Essence Silver 23 Watch, £149 / from $190
- Gold watch: Michael Kors Mini Darington Gold-Tone Watch, £135 / $295
- Rose gold watch: Swarovski Eternal watch, £210 / $258
- Bracelet watch: Tory Burch Double Bracelet Strap Watch, £330 / $350
- Smartwatch for women: Apple Watch Series 11, £299 / $379
Whatever you can afford to spend on a watch, they are - and always will be - a classic accessory. They’re worn whatever the occasion and look as elegant nestled alone on your wrist as they do layered with bangles and bracelets. There’s a reason watches are considered an investment piece buy, because they’re a forever accessory and when it comes to heirlooms, expensive watches are pretty common as a piece passed down through generations. Sure, they can dip in and out of trends, but their true beauty lies in becoming your very own capsule piece of jewellery.
If you’re in the zone for a new watch or wanting to buy one of the best watches for women for a Valentine's Day gift, we’ve pulled together a definitive list of our favourite watch brands for women to guide you. We’ve even included vintage watches too, if you’re thinking a Cartier or Rolex is on the cards…
How I chose the best watches for women
- Brands: I’ve looked at the most popular watch brands for women, and included those in my edit. That includes designer brands, affordable brands and niche brands too.
- Metals: I’m a gold watch wearer myself, but I know not everyone bows down to the gold, so I’ve included silver, rose gold plus leather strapped watches in this shopping edit.
- Price: Watches are, on the whole, an investment and prices for a good watch can range from £50 upwards, into the thousands. Within this list, you’ll find a range of prices so you can compare and contrast what you get for your money.
- Style: Round faces, square, bracelet straps, chunky chains – I’ve included as many different watch styles as possible. When choosing your watch, consider both brand and style; you may love a brand, but don’t be swayed by the label if the watch isn’t your usual style. This is a piece you’ll wear every day, so it’s got to fit with your personal style.
Shop our favourite watches for women
1/9
Abbott Lyon Essence Silver 23 Watch
© Abbott LyonEditor's Note:
"A beautifully classic design, Abbott Lyon's watch is reminiscent of classic, Cartier watches for a fraction of the price."
2/9
Michael Kors Mini Darrington Gold-Tone Watch
© Michael KorsEditor's Note:
"This sophisticated timepiece combines tradition with modern design for a minimalist's dream, with rectangular links and angular face."
3/9
Swarovski Eternal Watch
© SwarovskiEditor's Note:
"Shine away with this subtle sparkling watch featuring two pave lines on the bezel and asymmetric cut outs."
4/9
Tory Burch Double Bracelet Strap Watch
Editor's Note:
"Tory Burch's mini Eleanor watch is like a jewellery piece, with its slim bracelet design which can be worn wrapped around the wrist, twice. It's effortlessly elegant, with a matte cream face."
5/9
Apple Smartwatch Series 11 GPS
© AppleEditor's Note:
"Is there anyone that doesn't have, or want, an Apple watch? From tracking your sleep, using it to pay, GPS and a whole lot more, it's got pretty much everything you need from your phone in watch form - oh, and it tells the time too. Apple Watch Series 11 is smarter, it’s brighter, and it’s mightier."
6/9
Olivia Burton Classic Watch
© Olivia BurtonEditor's Note:
"I've lusted after Olivia Burton's watches for years, as they hit the sweet spot between affordability and design. There's many designs to choose from, from pared back to colourful."
7/9
Vivienne Westwood Orb Button Watch
© Vivienne WestwoodEditor's Note:
"This Vivienne Westwood watch is heavenly. I love the iconic VW branding and clever orb button that covers the face - so cool."
8/9
Cartier Panthere De Cartier Watch
© CartierEditor's Note:
"If there's a watch I'd wish for, it would be a Cartier. Loved by the royal family, who pass their Cartier timepieces down throughout the generations, this is an investment buy but one that will last for eons."
9/9
Fossil Raquel Three-Hand Date Green Croco LiteHide™ Leather Watch
© FossilEditor's Note:
Editor's note: "When I think of Fossil watches, I think of leather strap timepieces but a search on the site shows some beautiful, timeless colourful designs that are affordable but don't scrimp on quality."
