Grant McKay, Author at Exquisite Timepieces - Page 2 of 5

 

Author: Grant McKay

Best Solar watches from affordable to luxury

Harnessing the power of the sun. It’s something even ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and the Greeks considered. They designed their architecture to follow the pattern of the sun to maximize natural light and heat. 

It was the 19th-century discovery of the photovoltaic effect by French physicist Becquerel that would lay the groundwork for modern solar technology and the work of later scientists like Einstein, who won a Nobel Prize in 1921 for furthering the understanding of solar energy and, of course, the scientists at Bell Laboratories in the 1950s (and others) that got us to where we are today. 

Facing environmental challenges and an energy crisis, many have turned to solar as a solution. Time and battery technology will tell if that’s realistic, but no one can argue that solar tech has come a long way. Whether it’s powering homes, cars, or watches, the modern tech is pretty impressive. 

In this article, we’ll examine 20 of the best solar watches, from affordable to luxury brands and everything in between. Whether you’re driven by environmental virtues, cutting-edge technology, or convenience, there’s something here for everyone and every budget. We’ve thoroughly examined each of the timepieces we’ve selected to consider solar efficiency, aesthetics, consistency, ruggedness, luxury, and value for the money. 

For those that want style and sustainability without compromise, let’s discover some remarkable watches that blend nature’s power with the best of human engineering and artistry. 

About Solar Watches

Sustainability. It’s a corporate buzzword and a powerful movement. Not easy being green? No more. Kermit’s day has arrived. Everyone wants to be seen as “green”. Solar watches are one way to show you care for the planet. 

They are also a modern technology alternative to quartz battery-powered watches. Let’s further explore the history of solar watches and why they’ve become a popular choice among watch experts and technology enthusiasts. 

A Brief History 

Solar watches have their roots in the space race. The final frontier of outer space demanded a way to power watches in remote places. The Hamilton Watch company was actually the one to pioneer this technology in the mid-1950s. 

Hamilton’s Ventura model was powered by a miniaturized solar cell and really pushed the technology forward. However, this model wasn’t entirely solar-powered, as it required a battery to store the power. 

By the 1970s and 80s, watch companies like Seiko and Citizen found ways to refine the technology and mass-produce it for the public. 

Solar Advantages Over Quartz Movements

Green: Using the abundant power of the sun as the energy source for a timepiece requires significantly less reliance on disposable batteries. Those batteries eventually end up in landfills and can be a potential hazard. 

Convenience: With solar power, replacing your watch battery is unnecessary. This saves the consumer time and money. 

Long reserves: Today’s solar watches have long power reserves that, once fully charged, can last for months, even in complete darkness.

Low maintenance: Solar watches are more energy efficient than battery-powered quartz watches, making the timepieces more reliable, less likely to fail for mechanical reasons, and less likely to be out of commission for repairs. 

Accurate: Solar watches have proven to be just as precise timekeepers as quartz battery watches, making them reliable for both professional and daily use. 

Wide-ranging styles: Whether one is shopping for something modern, sporty, or classic and dressy, there’s a solar-powered timepiece out there to suit every need and taste. 

Overall, solar watches have become quite popular, with the technology only getting better, more effective, sustainable, and more powerful. 

What To Look For in Solar Watches?

One might understandably feel overwhelmed by the wide variety of solar timepieces on the market, and it can be difficult to sort through the blizzard of internet ads to determine the winners from the losers and which ones suit one’s specific needs best. That’s why we’ve done the research for you. We’ll detail all the critical things to consider when purchasing your next solar watch. 

Build Quality 

As with any quality timepiece, one should consider the materials used to make the watch. Materials like high-end stainless steel, ceramic, and titanium will not only be durable and scratch resistant but will last and, as a bonus, look the most luxurious. 

Power Reserve

The top solar watches, once fully charged, can last for months, even in complete darkness. If you have professional responsibilities in the field or you lead an active lifestyle, you’ll want to consider a watch with a long power life without the need to constantly be recharged. 

Solar Panel Location

Obviously, a solar panel on the case back would be rather ineffective. While I can’t imagine most watch engineers would make a mistake like that, be sure there’s a large panel on the dial or bezel of the watch. This way, you can be sure that it will harness the most solar power. 

Water Resistance

Make sure the timepiece you’re considering is at least water-resistant to 50 meters. This will ensure your watch is protected against rain and accidental splashes. It will also allow one to wear the watch in more active settings, including swimming and snorkeling (for a dress watch, 30 meters is acceptable).

Readability

Look for a timepiece that has a clean, readable layout and strong luminous hands and markers so everything is clear and visible even in the lowest light conditions, including total darkness. 

The Best Solar Watches

With that said, here’s a list of the 20 best solar watches you can buy today at different price points:

1. BERTUCCI DX3 FIELD REF. 11015

1. BERTUCCI DX3 FIELD REF. 11015

The Bertucci DX3 Field is a simple, no-nonsense, classic three-hand field watch design. The watch case is made of polycarbonate, which is a pressed plastic that’s quite rugged. It’s not stainless steel or titanium, but it will do the job. 

The case has a sleek matte black finish and measures 40mm; it’s 11mm thick and 49.5mm from lug to lug. The bezel is smooth and fixed. The dial is also a matte black with painted white numerals and white sword-style minute and hour hands. The hands and indices are properly illuminated and visible even in low-light settings. 

The timepiece offers a Japanese quartz movement powered by solar and is water resistant to 50 meters, which is suitable for swimming and snorkeling; however, this watch is not to be used for diving. The face of the timepiece is protected by an R-Type mineral crystal, which doesn’t have the scratch resistance and strength of a sapphire crystal. But this watch isn’t expected to last generations, and the reasonable price reflects that. It is paired with a black nylon strap with a simple tang buckle. 

Price: $75

2. CASIO G-SHOCK GWM5610-1

The G-SHOCK is all business. To my eye, there’s nothing especially beautiful about this watch, but if you’re looking for a solid, reliable digital watch, this will deliver. The case is some type of resin, as is the fixed bezel, which is a smooth matte black. Resin is perfectly capable but not as durable as stainless steel. When would this matter? 

It probably doesn’t matter for most purposes, but resin isn’t as capable of withstanding underwater pressures as other materials like steel or titanium. The case is a hexagon-type shape, measures 46.7mm by 43.2mm, and sits on the wrist at 12.7mm thick. The watch weighs 51.7 grams. The dial is black with a digital display that can brighten in low-light situations. 

The timepiece has some solid specs. It’s shock-resistant and capable of 200 meters of water resistance, which means it’s rugged and ready for those with an active lifestyle and quite capable in most diving situations. The face is protected by glass, which isn’t as durable as sapphire crystal. 

The watch is powered by the sun, and its battery, when fully charged and in power save mode, can last in total darkness for up to 22 months. The timepiece is accurate to 15+/- seconds per month. The watch includes features like a 12 or 24-hour format, date and day display, and stopwatch capabilities. All this is paired with a resin strap and a tang buckle. 

Price: $150

3. TIMEX EXPEDITION NORTH FIELD SOLAR REF. TW2V41600JR

3. TIMEX EXPEDITION NORTH FIELD SOLAR REF. TW2V41600JR

TIMEX has been a widely known and trusted watch brand since 1854. The Expedition North Field is an excellent timepiece for the price that offers everything a budget-conscious buyer would be looking for. The stainless steel, brushed, and bead-blasted case measures 41mm, sits on the wrist at 12mm thick, and has a lug width of 20mm. 

The watch has a smooth steel bezel and a black dial with numerals, except at 12 o’clock, where it’s marked with a triangle. At 3 o’clock, there’s a date window for added functionality. The dial has sword-style hour and minute hands and a gray seconds hand. Of course, the hands and markings are luminescent in the dark. The face is protected by sapphire crystal. TIMEX describes the watch design as military-inspired and made for the outdoor enthusiast.   

The timepiece is solar-powered and will last for 4 months on a single charge. The watch offers a screw-down caseback and crown, making it water-resistant to 100 meters. The timepiece is paired with a stainless steel bracelet with a fold-over clasp for added security. It’s a solid, clean everyday watch. If you’re looking for something with solar, but a classic steel design, this watch hits all the right marks for the right price. 

Price: $189

4. CITIZEN PROMASTER DIVER ECO-DRIVE REF. BN0151-09L

4. CITIZEN PROMASTER DIVER ECO-DRIVE REF. BN0151-09L

Citizen delivers on a good dive watch that’s paired with their eco-drive technology. The stainless steel case with alternating gear-edged bezel measures 44mm, sits on the wrist at 12mm thick, and has a lug width of 20mm. The unidirectional bezel has a blue aluminum ring insert with white markings. The blue dial is also clean and easy to read. The dial has a stubby sword-style hour and minute hands. 

The hour and seconds hand are gray, and the minute hand is orange. The indices are white and a mix of round and triangle-like shapes. There’s a date window at 4 o’clock. The hands and markings are luminescent in low lighting. The face isn’t protected by sapphire crystal, which is disappointing, but it’s impact and shatter resistant. 

The watch is powered by Citizen’s eco-drive technology, which means it can be charged by any light source and will last up to six months in the dark on a full charge. The timepiece has a screw-down crown and case back and is water-resistant to 200 meters. All this is paired with a blue polyurethane strap with a steel tang buckle. It’s a good-looking, performing driver with some of the best solar tech on the market. 

Price: $375

5. ORIENT NEO 70’S SOLAR PANDA CHRONOGRAPH REF. WV0041TX

If you’re in the market for a “panda-style” chronograph that’s solar-powered at a steal of a price, this is it. The Neo 70’s Solar Panda Chrono by Orient has all the right stuff and checks all the right boxes. The stainless steel case measures 42mm and sits on the wrist at 11.7mm thick. The watch looks more expensive than it really is, which is something Orient does well. 

The milky-white dial features three registers, two large and one small, with black backdrops. The silver hands and silver-lined black indices look sharp. There’s a date window at 4 o’clock. The face is protected by a mineral crystal. 

The watch is powered by solar and, with its screw-down crown and caseback, is water resistant to 100 meters. The timepiece offers hacking seconds and is paired with a stainless steel bracelet with twin push button release, fold over clasp. It seems this model has been discontinued by Orient but is still available through other retailers. 

Price: $218

6. CITIZEN ECO-DRIVE DRESS WATCH REF. AW0100-19A

6. CITIZEN ECO-DRIVE DRESS WATCH REF. AW0100-19A

This Citizen Eco-drive is a handsome, classic dress watch. The timepiece has a stainless steel case that measures 40mm. The case is relatively thin and should easily slip under a dress shirt. The fixed bezel is smooth and paired with a light ivory dial with silver hands and indices. There’s a day display window at 12 o’clock and a date window above 6 o’clock. Even with all these functions, the dial is simple, clear, and easy to read. 

The timepiece is powered by a caliber J800 movement, which is charged by Citizen’s Eco-drive. The watch is splash resistant, with a 30 meters rating. The timepiece also features 12 and 24 hours and has an eight-month power reserve. All this matched with a brown leather strap with stitching and a tang buckle. It’s a handsome watch that competes very well with other brands like Seiko and Hamilton. 

Price: $350

7. CASIO EDIFICE SOSPENSIONE ECB-2000 REF. ECB-2000TP-1A

7. CASIO EDIFICE SOSPENSIONE ECB-2000 REF. ECB-2000TP-1A

The Edifice Sospensione is perfect for the guy whose Corvette dream is out of reach and who is willing to settle for a sporty watch. The black and red design looks like a sports car. It comes in a few different configurations, some more gray, some more red. The case and bezel are made of carbon and stainless steel, and the watch’s measurements are 51mm by 47.8mm by 10.8mm. 

For a beefy sports watch, it’s relatively thin. The dial offers a mix of digital and analog displays, with white sword-style hands and white indices. There’s a date and day window at three o’clock, along with other registers. 

The timepiece is solar-powered and can run for 7 months on a single charge, with typical daily use and 18 months in total darkness in “low power mode”. The watch is full of features, including stopwatch functions, a countdown timer, an alarm, and 38 timezones (displaying the city name), to name a few. It’s accurate to within 15 seconds +/- per month. The watch syncs with Bluetooth and offers smartphone link capabilities, and even displays battery levels. It’s water resistant to 100 meters and fitted with a black resin strap with a tang buckle. 

Price: $300

8. SEIKO PROSPEX SOLAR DIVE WATCH REF. SNE585P1

8. SEIKO PROSPEX SOLAR DIVE WATCH REF. SNE585P1

Seiko makes a number of stylish divers, and the Propex Solar Dive is no exception. The stainless steel case measures 38.5mm and is thin enough to slip under a dress shirt. The unidirectional bezel is blue with a circle pattern. 

The dial is a sunray blue with syringe-style hour and minute hands and a lollipop-style seconds hand. There’s a date window at 3 o’clock. The white indices are a mix of circles, rectangles, and a triangle at 12 o’clock. The case has a satin finish with some contrasting polishing. 

The watch is powered by Seiko’s caliber V147 movement, and its battery is solar-powered with a reserve of 10 months. The screw-down crown and caseback offer water resistance of 200 meters, which is perfect for most divers. The face of the timepiece is protected by a sapphire crystal and is fitted with a stainless steel three-link bracelet with a tri-fold clasp for additional security. This watch reminds me of a Tudor Black Bay but for a fraction of the price. 

Price: $495

9. CITIZEN PROMASTER NIGHTHAWK REF. BJ7138-04E

9. CITIZEN PROMASTER NIGHTHAWK REF. BJ7138-04E

This timepiece puts out military vibes. I can see this on the wrist of some special operative behind enemy lines. Citizen says the Promaster Nighthawk was inspired by stealth helicopters. The two-tone steel and black case is made of stainless steel, measures 42mm, and has a lug width of 22mm. 

The smooth fixed black bezel paired with the busy black dial is sleek, and while there’s a lot of information displayed, the time is easily readable. The hands are white, and there’s a 24-hour hand in the style of an airplane on a runway. There’s a date window at 3 o’clock. 

The watch is powered by Citizen’s B877 movement, which is charged by their Eco-Drive solar technology. The timepiece is water-resistant to 200 meters. It features dual time, date, and slide rule. The watch is fitted with an olive green leather strap, inspired by military uniforms, with a tang buckle. This is a cool, sporty, casual watch that looks great on the wrist of a commando or just a world traveler or a weekend warrior with an active outdoor lifestyle. 

Price: $396

10.  SEIKO PROSPEX SNJ025 “ARNIE”

The Arnie is another sharp solar diver from Seiko. The timepiece is all black and steel with an analog and digital dial. The stainless steel case, with its lightweight high-tech protective shell, measures 47.8mm, sits at 14.4mm thick, and 51.3mm from lug to lug. The dial features sword-style white hands and white indices. There’s a digital display showing the time at the top of the dial. The black unidirectional bezel has a gear-style edge. 

The watch is powered by Seiko’s caliber H851 movement and is solar-powered with a six-month reserve. The timepiece is full of functions from power reserve display, local time indication, stopwatch function, and alarm. 

The watch has a screw-down crown, pushers, and screw-down caseback. It’s water resistant to 200 meters, suitable for scuba diving. The timepiece is fitted with a black silicon strap with a tang buckle. The Arnie has great 80s-style diver vibes and is worth considering. 

Price: $525

11.  CASIO FULL METAL G-SHOCK GM-B2100 REF. GM-B2100D-1A

11.  CASIO FULL METAL G-SHOCK GM-B2100 REF. GM-B2100D-1A

Casio is known more for their functionality than their sense of style, but they’re trying hard with this model to do both. The G-Shock full metal is pretty similar to the other G-Shock we reviewed, just in an all-steel style. The octagonal bezel and case is the design feature that first grabs one’s attention. 

That stainless steel case measures 49.8mm by 44.4mm by 12.8mm. It’s a chunky, sports-style watch design. The black and gray dial, hands, and indices offer a sleek look. The dial is a combination of analog and digital. The style cues with this model take one back to the 80s with the dimpled band and bezel shape. 

The Full Metal G-Shock, as the name implies, is shock resistant and durable. It’s water resistant to 200 meters. The mineral glass protecting the face is disappointing, but these watches aren’t expected to last multiple generations like a luxury watch might. On the bright side, this timepiece has many useful functions and features. 

The watch is solar-powered and will run for about 7 months on a single charge, with typical daily use and 18 months in total darkness in “low power mode”. It offers time, date, 38 timezones, an alarm, a battery level indicator, and Bluetooth, among other functions. The timepiece is fitted with a dimpled stainless steel bracelet with a fold-over clasp. 

Price: $550

12.  CITIZEN WORLD CHRONOGRAPH ATOMIC TIMEKEEPING REF. AT8020-54L

12.  CITIZEN WORLD CHRONOGRAPH ATOMIC TIMEKEEPING REF. AT8020-54L

I’ve always thought these Blue Angels Citizen watches were pretty darn cool and packed with tech. They have busy dials, which I don’t typically favor, but there’s something about the design I like. It’s sporty and attractive. 

The stainless steel, two-tone case, steel, and blue Ion-plated bezel measures 43mm, has a lug width of 25mm, and sits on the wrist at 12.5mm thick. These atomic and radio timekeeping watches tend to be thick, but this one is pretty reasonable. The dial is blue with white, silver-lined, sword-style hour and minute hands and a yellow seconds hand. The dial has three registers, and there’s a date window at 3 o’clock. 

The timepiece syncs to the Atomic Time Clock for accuracy and has Atomic Timekeeping tech that is synced with 26 time zones. The watch is powered by Citizen’s H800 Eco-Drive movement, which is charged by the sun. The timepiece also offers a day, date, and power reserve indicator.

The watch is water resistant to 200 meters and is fitted with a stainless steel three-link bracelet with a fold-over clasp. There’s also a titanium version of this model, which offers the same features, but in a lighter weight package, but of course, that’s more expensive. 

Price: $580.00 (Source: https://www.citizenwatch.com/us/en/product/AT8020-54L.html).

13.  JUNGHANS 1972 CHRONOSCOPE SOLAR REF. 14/4202.44

13.  JUNGHANS 1972 CHRONOSCOPE SOLAR REF. 14/4202.44

Junghans is a German watchmaker that may or may not be known to Americans. They’re the official timekeeper of the Munich Games, and they make some excellent watches. The Junghans 1972 Chrono Solar was designed to capture the spirit of those 1972 games. It does just that. It’s sporty, streamlined, and like a well-conditioned athlete, there’s not much “fat” on this watch. 

The timepiece’s stainless steel case measures 43.3mm and sits on the wrist at 11.6mm thick. The bezel and case have a satin finish and a sculpted look. The bezel is black and matched with an anthracite-gray sunray brushed dial. There’s a red outer ring with a tachymeter scale. The dial has three registers and gray hour and minute hands, plus a red seconds hand. There’s a date window at 3 o’clock. 

The watch is powered by a solar-quartz movement, the caliber J622.50. It’s water resistant to 100 meters, with a screw-down caseback, a guard-protected crown, and a sapphire crystal covering of the face. The timepiece features a stop function with 1/5 seconds, date, and alarm. The watch is fitted with a stainless steel bracelet with a folding clasp. All around, this is a really nice watch that could function as a sports watch and in dressier situations. 

Price: Approx. $1,000

14.  SEIKO PROSPEX SPEEDTIMER SSC813

14.  SEIKO PROSPEX SPEEDTIMER SSC813

This is another “panda-style” chronograph from Seiko with all the right style cues. The stainless steel case measures 39mm, which is a real sweet spot for most wrists. It sits on the wrist at 13.3mm and 45.5mm lug-to-lug. The case has a satin finish and looks great with the black tachometer bezel. 

The white dial is clean and crisp, with three registers with black backgrounds, along with black hands and indices. There’s a date window at 4 o’clock. This watch has some Omega Speedmaster vibes, and there’s nothing wrong with a tribute, especially at a reasonable price. 

The timepiece is powered by Seiko’s caliber V192 quartz-solar movement. It’s loaded with features like a 6-month power reserve, power indicator reserve, date, small seconds, chronograph up to 60 minutes, and a 24-hour hand. The face of the watch is protected by sapphire crystal. The screw-down caseback adds to the seal, and this timepiece offers 100 meters of water resistance. It’s paired with a stainless steel bracelet with a tri-folding clasp.

Price: $675

15.  JUNGHANS FORCE MEGA SOLAR REF. 18/1000.00

15.  JUNGHANS FORCE MEGA SOLAR REF. 18/1000.00

This is another modern-style timepiece from Junghans. The all-black design is slimming and classy, but this watch isn’t just great to look at, it’s also got all the right chops. Made of a polished ceramic, the case measures 40.4mm and is ultra-thin at 8.2mm thick. 

The dial is both analog and digital, with a black outer rim with white-gray markings. The inner dial is gray with vertical lines. The hour and minute hands are gray, and the seconds hand is black. There’s a large digital date window at 6 o’clock. 

The face of the watch is protected by a sapphire crystal and is water-resistant to 50 meters. There’s even a handsome globe design on the caseback. This timepiece is packed with tech, with a radio-controlled solar movement, for the most accurate timekeeping. Functions besides date and time include a power reserve indicator for up to 21 months and easy time adjustment in the app. The watch is fitted with a black synthetic rubber strap with a titanium tang buckle. 

Price: Approx. $1,250

16.  TISSOT T-TOUCH CONNECT SOLAR REF. T121.420.47.051.00

16.  TISSOT T-TOUCH CONNECT SOLAR REF. T121.420.47.051.00

This is a super-fly watch from Tissot, the Swiss watch company. It’s both classy, sporty, and bold. I could see this timepiece worn with casual attire or, if you’re gutsy, even a suit. The anti-magnetic titanium case measures 47.5mm, 23mm lug width, and sits pretty high on the wrist at 15.3mm. 

This watch is a big boy, and while one could wear it with a suit, in my opinion, it won’t slide under a dress shirt. But why would you want to hide this beautiful, modern timepiece anyway? Despite being a larger watch, it’s light at 92 grams, thanks to its titanium build. 

The shiny black ceramic bezel features a compass and other markings in white. The black dial is both analog and digital. The hour and minute hands are white, lined in black, with a red triangle tip on the minute hand. The seconds hand is red and in the shape of a T for Tissot T-Touch. The indices are white, and there’s a large digital display on the lower half of the dial. 

The watch is full of the latest tech and features. The movement is a Swiss-connected quartz solar movement. Despite all the digital functions, the timepiece is water-resistant to 100 meters. The face of the watch is protected by sapphire crystal. 

The functions include an altimeter, compass, perpetual calendar, alarm, multiple timezones, automatic daylight saving time, timer, chronograph split, chronograph lap, chronograph log book, step counter, calorie tracker, temperature, weather, etc. There are simply too many functions to list. The timepiece is paired with a red synthetic silicone strap with a tang buckle. If you’re looking for a Swiss watch that straddles the line between classy and modern with all the latest tech, I think you’ve found it. 

Price: $1,095

17.  JUNGHANS MAX BILL MEGA SOLAR REF 59/2022.46

17.  JUNGHANS MAX BILL MEGA SOLAR REF 59/2022.46

This model is another great example of the modern, minimalist designs Jughans is known for. This design captures the essence of the Bauhaus style, from its simplicity to its lightweight and gentle touch on the skin. The timepiece also puts out vintage, 60s German vibes to my eye. The titanium case measures 38mm and is ultra-thin at 9mm. 

The domed sapphire crystal adds to the vintage feel. The dial is white-gray with gray hands and markings. There’s a date window at 3 o’clock and white luminescent dots at 3, 6, 9, and two dots at 12. The caseback includes a map of the world. 

The watch is powered by a connected radio-controlled solar movement J101.85 and is water resistant to 50 meters. Functions include the date, time adjustment at the crown or the MEGA App, and seconds display in half-second motions. The timepiece is fitted with a titanium Milanese bracelet with a folding clasp.

Price: Approx. $1,450

18.  TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 200 SOLARGRAPH REF. WBP1180.BF0000

18.  TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 200 SOLARGRAPH REF. WBP1180.BF0000

This TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional looks old school, but under the hood, it’s all modern tech. The octagonal grade 2 titanium bezel with its coin edge look is complemented by a sunray, brushed black dial with a horizontal line pattern. The titanium sandblasted case measures 40mm, which is a comfortable, versatile size. The silver-lined white hour and minute hands and indices are complemented by a turquoise pop of color on the seconds hand. There’s a functional date window at 3 o’clock. 

The screw-down caseback displays a compass symbol. There’s a screw-down steel crown and a water resistance of 200 meters. The watch has solargraph technology and features a Swiss solar-powered movement. The timepiece is fitted with a sandblasted 3-link grade 2 titanium with a folding clasp, push buttons, and micro-adjustment. 

Price: $3,050

19.  SEIKO ASTRON GPS SOLAR SSH109

19.  SEIKO ASTRON GPS SOLAR SSH109

This Seiko Astron GPS Solar offers a fusion of a classic steel sports watch with technology, and the design captures that well. The titanium case measures 42.7mm, sits at 12.2mm on the wrist, and is 48mm from lug to lug. The face of the watch is protected by sapphire crystal. The dial has four registers, one smaller, with a date window between 4 and 5 o’clock. The dial has silver sword-style hands against a gray-blue, to my eye, and has a fine sandpaper finish at the center. 

This timepiece is powered by a GPS solar movement with a 6-month reserve and 2 years in power save mode. The watch is water resistant to 100 meters and has a plethora of options. Options include perpetual calendar, world time function in 39 time zones, dual-time function, day display, power reserve indicator, GPS signal reception function, and automatic daylight savings, among others. The timepiece is fitted with a titanium bracelet with a three-fold clasp and push buttons. 

Price: $2,500

20.  CARTIER TANK MUST LARGE SOLARBEAT™ REF. WSTA0059

20.  CARTIER TANK MUST LARGE SOLARBEAT™ REF. WSTA0059

If you love the Cartier Tank Must style, but you’re looking for a solar-powered timepiece, you’re in luck, Cartier has just what you’re looking for. The WSTA0059 has the iconic steel rectangular case you know and love. The case measures 33.7mm by 5.5mm by 6.6mm. This is a thin, classic dress watch. The white dial has black Roman numerals and markings with sharp blue hands that match the blue tip of the crown. 

The face of the timepiece is protected by synthetic sapphire glass. The movement powering the watch is quartz solar. The watch is water resistant to 30 meters, which is splash resistant and perfectly acceptable for a dress watch. All this is paired with a black leather strap with a tang buckle. This timepiece simply exudes class but is unique with its cutting-edge solar tech under the hood. 

Retail Price: $3,700

Parting Thoughts

There’s a large and growing market for solar-powered, radio, and GPS-linked watches that are full of features and have the ability to connect with our smartphones and online worlds. We hope this article has been informative and useful in your search for the right solar watch for your needs. 

There’s a wide array of timepieces in this space, from budget options to sporty and dressy possibilities from higher-end, luxury watchmakers and everything in between. We think these are 20 of the best on the market today, and one can’t go wrong with any of them. 

Best Mido Watches across all categories

Mido is an under-the-radar watch brand that’s worth taking a look at. Mido has been around for over a century, and for more than a few decades, they’ve been a part of the Swatch Group, but they are a bit neglected, in my opinion. 

They haven’t received the marketing attention they deserve, and that’s a shame because Mido puts out some high-quality timepieces with great style and strong vintage vibes. When you think about some of the more notable brands in the Swatch Group in the same entry-level luxury space, like Tissot and Hamilton, they’re known for their associations with the NBA and big Hollywood movie and television productions.

Yet, Mido is known for its sponsorship of Red Bull Cliff Diving, which is cool, but lacks the exposure of Hollywood and big sports. In this article, we will take you on a deep-dive expedition in the remote world of Mido and examine some of its top models.

From the Ocean Star line with the rainbow dial that created quite a slash in recent years to the Commander collection, a nod to their heritage, we’re sure there’s something here for everyone. Their commitment to design and their attention to detail make them a solid representation of quality Swiss watchmaking that won’t disappoint.

The History Of Mido Watches

The Mido brand was born in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland, by founder George G. Schaeren, a master Swiss watchmaker, who gave Mido its name. Mido comes from the Spanish word Yo Mido, translated as I measure; an acknowledgment of the importance of precise timekeeping to chronicle mankind’s achievements in sports and beyond. These are the ideals the brand has been living up to ever since.

Watch horologists and collectors put a high premium on a brand’s heritage. It’s their story that explains what they stand for and the accomplishments and milestones in their history that demonstrate how they have lived up to those ideals. Some have strong military ties during the Second World War, and others have pushed the boundaries of watch engineering. 

When examining Mido, you’ll see they’ve got innovative chops to impress the experts. In 1924, Mido introduced their Multifort, which proved to be a rugged powerhouse and set new standards in the watch industry for water resistance. 

In the 30s and 40s, they garnered further attention with the Mido Multicenterchrono, the first watch with a central chronograph hand and a mouthful of a name to remember it by. This accomplishment, combined with their Mutifort, sent clear signals to the industry that the Mido brand was committed to innovation. 

By 1944, Mido had released the Ocean Star collection, with its rugged good looks and solid water resistance, it became a fan favorite among divers and water sports athletes and remains so.

By the 1950s, Mido had launched one of their most iconic lines, the Commander. The collection featured styles that were both vintage and modern, and it’s still a popular collection offered today. 

In recent years, Mido has received a number of awards in the watch industry, including the Red Dot Design Award and the iF Design Award, which further demonstrates their quality and design accomplishments. 

What’s The Status Of Mido Today?

Mido has remained a respectable watch brand admired by collectors and watch experts. They don’t have the name ID as many of their direct competitors, but they continue to build quality, Swiss-made timepieces with many popular complications such as antimagnetic properties, chronographs, and automatic movements. All of this is delivered in a robust, durable, stylish package and at a reasonable price. 

Rising in Rank

Mido has received recognition in recent years, winning design awards and becoming a favorite of the critics, despite the fact that they haven’t become as popular with the general public. When one compares Mido to a brand like Shinola, it’s easy to see that you’re just getting so much more from an engineering and features standpoint with Mido.

Both brands offer nicely designed vintage watches, but Mido consistently delivers more bang for the buck. With better marketing, a brand like Mido has all the right stuff to break through. 

Excellence in Craftsmanship

Mido is known for its attention to detail and the rigorous testing it puts its watches through. MNido only hires the most skilled Swiss watchmakers to ensure that every component is perfectly integrated. Mido takes pride in their work, which is evident in how they uphold the highest Swiss horological traditions. 

Innovation and Technological Advancements

Mido has long maintained a good balance between innovation while remaining true to their heritage. What they call a neo-vintage style, Mido pairs traditional looks with modern touches. They match tradition with the latest tech, such as their caliber 80 automatic movement, which is officially certified by the COSC and offers a robust 80-hour power reserve. 

Another area of innovation they shine in is with their Nivachron balance-spring. This titanium-based metal allows for a reduction of the effect from a magnetic field while offering top-notch shock resistance. 

Unique Design

Mido is known for using architectural wonders the world over as inspiration for their watch designs, incorporating clean lines, distinct shapes, and luxurious textures. They’re elegant and timeless, yet sophisticatedly cosmopolitan and upmarket. Their watches stand out with their eye-catching designs. 

Accessible Luxury

Mido timepieces offer affordable luxury that doesn’t compromise on all the things that matter, like design, quality, and heritage. This makes them a great option for those looking to get into the luxury watch market, as well as seasoned collectors that see this as a brand that could break out in the future. 

Mido’s current era is marked by a continuation of its track record in pushing boundaries and offering new innovations. They’re doing everything right except for marketing, and this offers a potential opportunity to stanch them up at a reasonable price before someone at Swatch Group recognizes this hidden gem in their constellation of brands. 

The Best Mido Watches

1.   MIDO OCEAN STAR 200 REF. M026.430.11.051.00

1.   MIDO OCEAN STAR 200 REF. M026.430.11.051.00

The Ocean Star 200 is a classic diver’s watch with rugged good looks. The stainless steel case measures 42.5mm and features a gear-style edging along the outside of the bezel. The case measures 11.8mm thick, which is very reasonable, especially for a diver, which can often be chunky. 

The slimmer profile allows this timepiece to easily slide under a dress shirt and therefore makes this a more versatile watch. The watch includes a handsome, rotating black bezel. The dial is clean and simple, as a diver should be, with silver hands and rectangular indices. There’s a day and date window at three o’clock and an orange tip on the second hand to offer a pop of color. 

Under the hood, the watch is powered by a modified ETA movement with a rather substantial power reserve of 80 hours. The timepiece offers a screw-down crown, sapphire crystal, and water resistance of up to 200 meters. The watch is paired with a brushed stainless steel bracelet with a folding clasp and a diver extension system. 

The screw-down case back displays the Ocean Star logo. The timepiece is offered in seven different configurations, at various price points, including a rubber strap, two-tone steel and rose gold, a stunning blue and gold with a synthetic strap, gray and black, and a blue dial with a darker blue bezel. 

Price: $970

2.   MIDO BARONCELLI HERITAGE GENT REF. M027.407.16.010.00

2.   MIDO BARONCELLI HERITAGE GENT REF. M027.407.16.010.00

Understated elegance. Those are the two words that come to mind when gazing upon the Mido Baroncelli Heritage Gent. The timepiece has a thin profile. After all, it’s only 7.3mm thick, and between that and its soft features, there’s a delicate nature to the watch. 

Yet, that delicateness is balanced by a mid-size 39mm stainless steel case. The sandpaper white dial with its painted black indices, date window at three o’clock, and its silver sword-style hands, oozes class. The sharp blue second hand adds just the right touch of sophistication. 

Turn the watch over, and you’ll find an open case back displaying the Mido automatic ETA movement with a 42-hour power reserve. The display is protected by a sapphire crystal and is water resistant to 30 meters, which is acceptable, as this is a dress watch, not meant for diving or water sports. The black leather strap is an embossed cow leather that looks like more upmarket alligator leather and is fitted with a simple stainless steel tang buckle. 

Price: $1,040  

3.   MIDO MULTIFORT TV BIG DATE REF. M049.526.11.041.00

3.   MIDO MULTIFORT TV BIG DATE REF. M049.526.11.041.00

The unique shape of the Mido Multifort TV Big Date is probably the first thing one notices. It’s not exactly square. It’s not exactly a rectangle. Its edges aren’t precisely straight, but nor are they completely round. Mido calls it a TV shape. It has an 80s throwback vibe to my eye. 

As the name suggests, there is a large date window at 12 o’clock. The shape reminds me of an old Apple computer monitor. If you can remember the Macintosh, like me, then perhaps your eyes will benefit from the enlarged date. The intense dial features a horizontal brushed deep blue gradient dial that turns black at the edges. 

There’s a mix of circular and rectangular indices, and the chunky gray hands and slim seconds hand finishes off the dial nicely. It’s a pleasing, distinctive design to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Big Date.

The contrasting brushed and polished surfaces around the case of the watch offer a refined look. The stainless steel case measures 39.2mm and sits on the wrist at 11.5mm thick. The dial is protected by a sapphire crystal and the screw-down crown is protected by a partial crown guard on the sides. 

Despite the 80s vibes to the look of the timepiece, inside, it’s powered by the latest tech. The watch offers a Mido automatic ETA with 80 hours of power reserve, water resistance to 100 meters, and is fitted with powerful shock and antimagnetic resistance from its balance spring. The timepiece is paired with a rather handsome and fitting gray stainless steel bracelet with satin outer links and polished inner links. 

Price: $1,250 

4.   MIDO OCEAN STAR CHRONOGRAPH REF. M026.627.44.041.00

4.   MIDO OCEAN STAR CHRONOGRAPH REF. M026.627.44.041.00

This is a unique offering. The Mido Ocean Star Chronograph is both a dive watch and a chronograph, which is a noteworthy pairing, and something Mido is known for. The titanium case measures 44mm and sits on the wrist at 15.6mm. It’s a chunky diver, but the bulk is offset by the lightness of the titanium. 

The ceramic navy blue bezel handsomely wraps an almost marine blue dial with applied indices. The thick, skeletonized hour and minute hands are contrasted by a slim seconds hand with an orange tip, matching the orange lettering of the Ocean Star logo and the small orange triangle at 12 o’clock.

The face of the watch offers a two-register dial, a tachymeter in nautical miles, and a date window at 6 o’clock. The dial is protected by sapphire crystal, and there’s a partially protected screw-down crown with crown guards on the sides and flanking pushers. 

The watch is powered by Mido’s automatic ETA with a 60-hour power reserve and features date, chronograph, and small seconds functions. It has a water resistance of up to 200 meters and is fitted with a titanium gray bracelet with contrasting satin and polished links, a folding clasp, and a diver extension system. 

Price: $2,500

5.   MIDO BARONCELLI SIGNATURE REF. M037.407.11.051.01

5.   MIDO BARONCELLI SIGNATURE REF. M037.407.11.051.01

Mido describes the Baroncelli Signature as “intensely chic and timeless”, and I think that’s an apt description. The design cues of this timepiece strike a balance between classic and fashion-forward. The stainless steel case is 9.9mm thin, as a dress watch should be. The round case measures 39mm. The black dial, with its silver, applied indexes and silver sword-style hands, is elegant.

There’s a thin textured outer ring and an almost beaded gray inner ring with a center black sunburst dial. A date window at three o’clock adds an element of functionality. The open caseback proudly shows the watch’s Mido’s automatic ETA movement with an 80-hour power reserve. The face is protected by a sapphire crystal and is water resistant to 50 meters.

It features the anti-shock and magnetic properties we’ve previously addressed. The watch weighs 111 grams and is accompanied by a two-year warranty. 

The timepiece’s bracelet is an attractive, up-scale, multilink stainless steel bracelet that gives it a little bit of a sporty flair to an otherwise dressy watch. The timepiece comes in eight different configurations, with offerings in silver, gold, and diamonds, at different price points. 

Price: $970  

6.   MIDO COMMANDER CHRONOGRAPH REF. M016.414.36.081.00

6.   MIDO COMMANDER CHRONOGRAPH REF. M016.414.36.081.00

As previously noted, Mido finds inspiration from architectural icons. This version, the Mido Commander Chronograph, is big and bold, as I’m sure the building that served as its muse is. The stainless steel and PVD-coated rose gold case measures 42.5mm and sits on the wrist at 14.9mm thick, so it’s not exactly a thin profile. The gray sunray dial has rose gold-toned lined indices and hands. 

The dial offers three registers with darker backgrounds against the gray, two larger at six and twelve o’clock and a smaller one at nine o’clock. There’s also a day and date window at three o’clock. There’s a lot going on with the dial, but it’s compartmentalized well, so it doesn’t feel too busy. 

The watch weighs 110 grams. The face is protected by a sapphire crystal and is water resistant to 50 meters. The see-through case back displays the caliber 60 Mido ETA automatic chronograph movement with a 60-hour power reserve and offers multiple functions, including day, date, Chronograph, and small seconds.

The timepiece is paired with a brown leather alligator-like strap with a folding clasp. This special edition version also comes with a second synthetic strap for a more casual look. The watch comes in another version that’s all steel with a stainless steel bracelet. 

Price: $2,090 

7.   MIDO MULTIFORT M CHRONOMETER REF. M038.431.11.097.00

7.   MIDO MULTIFORT M CHRONOMETER REF. M038.431.11.097.00

The Mido Multifort M Chronometer is one of those everyday watches that practically checks all the boxes. The stainless steel case measures 42mm and sits on the wrist at roughly 12mm thick. The face of the timepiece is protected by sapphire crystal. 

The dial features silver sword-style hands against a horizontal brushed green gradient dial, with black at the outer edges. The applied indexes are a mix of indices and numbers, with numbers at 6, 9, and 12. There’s a day and date window at three o’clock. 

The open case back makes visible the Mido ETA automatic movement that’s COSC certified. It has an 80-hour power reserve. The watch is water resistant to 100 meters. The stainless steel strap is a three-link Oyster-style with a hidden butterfly clasp. 

The only thing perhaps missing from the bracelet is micro-adjustment, but everything about this watch is so well finished down to the satin face of the links, contrasted with the polished link sides. Finishing work… that’s one thing Mido does well that some of its competitors in this price range could do better. 

Price: $1,350  

8.   MIDO OCEAN STAR TRIBUTE REF. M026.830.11.051.00

The Mido Ocean Star Tribute is a real standout special edition in the Ocean Star collection. I don’t usually jump right into the bracelet in my review, but what I like most about the design is the bracelet. It’s a multilink mesh-like stainless steel band that looks smart and feels as comfortable as it looks. It also comes with a second black canvas strap with contrasting orange stitching.

The stainless steel case measures 40.5mm and sits on the wrist at 13.44mm. The rotatable black bezel has a steel gear edge. The domed sapphire crystal covering the face adds to the overall vintage 60s diver vibes of the watch. The chunky gray hour and minute hands are nicely complimented by an orange lollipop-style seconds hand. 

There’s a day and date window at three o’clock. The watch is powered by a Mido automatic ETA with an 80-hour power reserve. The timepiece includes a screw-down crown and is water resistant to 200 meters. The watch comes in seven different configurations, with blue, black, green, and red dials. 

Price: $1,200

9.   MIDO BELLUNA SUNRAY REF. M024.630.33.051.00

9.   MIDO BELLUNA SUNRAY REF. M024.630.33.051.00

The Belluna Sunray is an all-black PVD-coated stainless steel. The round case measures 41.5mm and sits at 10.8mm on the wrist. Mido describes the black dial as a “dazzling sunray guilloché-style”. 

The modern dial includes silver applied indices with a double index at the twelve o’clock position. There’s also a functional day and date window at three o’clock. The face of the watch is protected by sapphire crystal. The back of the case displays the Mido automatic ETA movement with its 80-hour power reserve.

The watch is fitted with a black PVD-coated stainless steel multi-link bracelet with a folding clasp. The black case, dial, and bracelet give it a sleek look. The contrasting finishing of satin and polished surfaces adds to the watch’s elegance. The timepiece comes in three different configurations, with a blue dial and one with a brown leather strap option. 

Price: $1,160  

10.  MIDO MULTIFORT PATRIMONY REF. M040.407.16.040.00

10.  MIDO MULTIFORT PATRIMONY REF. M040.407.16.040.00

The Multifort Patrimony has a retro look from the early 19th century when pulsometer watches were first designed for physicians who needed to track the heart rate of their patients. These watches also became popular with athletes, who wanted to keep their heart rate in the proper range for maximum benefit. 

The round stainless steel case measures 40mm and sits on the wrist at 12mm thick. The beautiful gradient blue dial is mesmerizing, and the vintage Mido logo at twelve o’clock is a nice touch. The dial has a mix of indexes and numbers at 3, 6, 9, and 12. There’s a date window at six o’clock. There’s a pulsometer scale on the outer rim of the dial. 

There’s an open case back revealing the Mido automatic ETA with an 80-hour power reserve. The face of the watch is protected by a sapphire crystal. The watch is paired with an embossed beige cow leather that looks almost suede, with contrasting stitching, and features a simple stainless steel tang buckle. The watch is available in a couple of different configurations, including an anthracite gray dial with a black leather strap. 

Price: $930 

11.  MIDO OCEAN STAR 600 CHRONOMETER REF. M026.608.11.041.01

11.  MIDO OCEAN STAR 600 CHRONOMETER REF. M026.608.11.041.01

The Mido Ocean Star collection of diver watches should be at or near the top of your list if you’re looking for a diver in this price range. Some of the Ocean Star designs have been inspired by European lighthouses. This Ocean Star 600 Chronometer is a high-quality diver for a reasonable price point. 

The stainless steel case measures 43.5mm and sits on the wrist at 14.6mm. The timepiece features a rotatable ceramic bezel in dark blue, which contrasts nicely with the gradient dial that starts from a black center and progressively gets lighter shades of blue to the outer rim. 

The white, silver-lined indexes are a mix of circles, squares, and a triangle at twelve o’clock. There’s also a date window at 3 o’clock. The chunky silver/gray hour and minute hands are complemented by a gray lollipop seconds hand with an orange tip. Both the bezel, the dial markings, and the hands are filled with Super-LumiNova, for readability on those dark water dives.

The face of the watch is protected by a sapphire crystal and the screw-down crown, with partial side crown guards and screw-down caseback with the Star logo, proves water resistance up to 600 meters. There’s even a helium escape valve. All of those elements make this a serious diver’s watch. The timepiece is powered by a COSC-certified automatic movement with a power reserve of up to 80 hours. 

The stainless steel bracelet with folding clasp and diver’s extension system is nicely finished with contrasting satin outer links with polished inner links. The timepiece has pretty much anything one would be looking for in a diver. The watch comes in three different configurations, including a black dial against stainless steel and one all-black version. 

Price:$1,780 

12.  MIDO BARONCELLI CHRONOMETER SILICON GENT REF. M027.408.16.061.00

12.  MIDO BARONCELLI CHRONOMETER SILICON GENT REF. M027.408.16.061.00

The Mido Baroncelli Chronometer Silicon Gent is a refined timepiece for gentlemen of substance and taste. Supposedly inspired by the blissful and eternal aesthetic of stringed instruments, this design is one to be admired.

The round stainless steel case measures 40mm and sits on the wrist at a thin 9.4mm. The horizontally brushed anthracite dial with gold-toned applied indexes and hands are the epitome of class. There’s also a date window at three o’clock. 

The face of the timepiece is protected by a sapphire crystal with double-sided anti-reflection treatment. The open caseback displays the COSC-certified Mido automatic chronometer with a power reserve of 80 hours. The timepiece is paired with a brown embossed cow leather that simulates an alligator leather look and is fitted with a folding clasp. 

It’s a straightforward design that is sure to solicit admiration. There are also four other configurations of this model with white and blue dials that, in one case, has a black leather strap and, in the other, a stainless steel bracelet. 

Price: $1,180 

13.  MIDO COMMANDER GRADIENT REF. M021.407.11.411.01

13.  MIDO COMMANDER GRADIENT REF. M021.407.11.411.01

If you’re looking for a timepiece with a stand-out, unique design, this is it. Inspired by the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Mido Commander Gradient is one to behold. There’s a blue-gray ringed internal bezel under the glass with an inner date wheel. At the center is an open view of the movement.

The hands and indices are modern and gray. The stainless steel case measures 40mm and sits on the wrist at 10.8mm thick. The face of the watch is protected by sapphire crystal. The see-through caseback displays the 80 caliber, 25-jewel, Mido automatic ETA movement, with a date function and 80 hours of power reserve. 

The watch is water resistant to 50 meters and features a balance spring to protect against shock and magnetism. The timepiece is paired with a gray stainless steel modern-styled bracelet with a folding clasp. 

Price: $960 

14.  MIDO OCEAN STAR 200C TITANIUM REF. M042.430.44.051.00

14.  MIDO OCEAN STAR 200C TITANIUM REF. M042.430.44.051.00

I’m not sure what architectural wonder Mido is claiming inspired this timepiece, but to my eye, it looks an awful lot like the Omega Seamaster Diver. There’s nothing wrong with a tribute to the iconic Seamaster, if that’s the case, as it is a true classic. 

The Mido Ocean Star 200C comes in a titanium case and measures 42.5mm, and sits on the wrist at 12.3mm thick, which isn’t too bad for a diver. The black dial has a horizontal wave pattern with round indices and a triangle at twelve o’clock. There’s also a day and date window at three o’clock. 

The screw-down caseback and crown, with partial side crown guards, give the watch a 200-meter water resistance, which should be plenty unless you’re a professional. The Mido caliber 80 automatic ETA movement is the one we’ve previously detailed. 

The bracelet is a dark gray titanium with a folding clasp and diving extension system. This model comes in a total of five configurations, including green, blue, black, and gray dials with stainless steel and rubber strap options. 

Price: $1,250 

15.  MIDO BARONCELLI SMILING MOON GENT REF. M027.407.11.010.01

15.  MIDO BARONCELLI SMILING MOON GENT REF. M027.407.11.010.01

The Mido Baroncelli Smiling Moon Gent timepiece is a beautiful work of art on the wrist. The first thing that grabs the attention is the large aperture on the dial, which Mido describes as a smile, revealing the eight phases of the moon against a blue starry night sky, on a rotating wheel. 

The sandpaper white dial with black Roman numerals and applied indexes is a classy touch. The sword-styled, shaded white-silver hour and minute hands, along with the sharp blue second hand, look elegant against a white background. The stainless steel case measures 39mm in diameter and an ultra-thin 7.3mm in thickness.

The open caseback reveals the Mido automatic ETA movement with a power reserve of 72 hours. It’s water resistant to 30 meters, which is basically splash resistant. The upmarket multilink stainless steel bracelet with a folding clasp completes the timepiece. The watch comes in four different configurations with a blue dial option and a version for the ladies in a pink gold tone. 

Price: $1,220

16.  MIDO MULTIFORT PATRIMONY CHRONOGRAPH REF. M040.427.16.052.00

16.  MIDO MULTIFORT PATRIMONY CHRONOGRAPH REF. M040.427.16.052.00

Mido delivers a smashing two-register chrono with their Mido Multifort Patrimony Chronograph. The timepiece pays tribute to their 1937 Multichrono. The domed dial under the sapphire crystal features a tachymeter scale. 

The black dial, with contrasting gray subdials, includes gray hands and white numerals. At twelve o’clock there’s a vintage Mido logo and at six o’clock a date window. The stainless steel case measures 42mm and sits on the wrist at 15.2mm thick.

Under the hood, one will find Mido’s automatic ETA, with a 60-hour power reserve that includes functions of date, chronograph, and small seconds. The watch is water resistant to 50 meters. 

The strap is black leather that simulates alligator leather with a stainless steel tang buckle. At these prices, you think Mido could spring for real alligator leather and a folding clasp, but overall it’s a nice timepiece. The watch also comes in a gold-tone version.

Price: $2,260 

17.  MIDO OCEAN STAR GMT REF. M026.629.11.041.00

17.  MIDO OCEAN STAR GMT REF. M026.629.11.041.00

The Mido Ocean Star GMT is a handsome little number that has all the right features. The rotating ceramic bezel is navy blue for diving. There’s an inner GMT bezel that gets the Pepsi treatment and blue dial. 

The applied indices are stacked double squares at twelve and six o’clock; the rest are rectangular. There’s a date window at 3 o’clock. The watch has stubby skeletonized hour and minute hands in gray, a gray seconds hand with a red tip, and a red GMT hand.

The timepiece boasts a screw-down crown and water resistance of 200 meters. The Mido-modified ETA automatic movement has an 80-hour power reserve with date and GMT functions. Since this is a special edition model, the watch comes with two straps, a Nato with a tang buckle and a stainless steel bracelet with a folding clasp and diver extension system. 

This is a unique timepiece that offers the best of both worlds, a GMT function for pilots and world travels, plus all the diver functions that Ocean Stars are known for. There are a few different configurations, including versions with a black dial, a two-tone rose gold (PVD-coated) and steel version, and one with a blue synthetic strap. 

Price: $1,460 

18.  MIDO BARONCELLI BIG DATE REF. M027.426.36.018.00

18.  MIDO BARONCELLI BIG DATE REF. M027.426.36.018.00

This is another model in the Baroncelli Big Date collection, perhaps for those with low vision or those who want a dial to “screams” the date at them. I’m sure Mido has more sophisticated reasons for their big date, but those are my guesses. This is a classic dress watch with a 40mm rose gold (PVD coated) case that sits on the wrist at 10.4mm. 

There are a number of subtle touches to the finishing of this timepiece that demonstrate Mido’s commitment to detail and quality, such as the double gadroon bezel and double-sided hands. The watch offers a white dial with rose gold-tone hands and applied index with a Roman numeral at twelve o’clock and a large date window in the opposite position.

The open case back reveals Mido’s automatic ETA with its 80-hour power reserve. This watch has a 30-meter water resistance and is paired with an alligator-like black leather strap with a folding clasp. The timepiece comes with a two-year warranty and weighs 70 grams. There are a couple of other configurations available with multilink steel bracelets, one of them two-tone with rose (PVD coated) gold. 

Price: $1,050  

19.  MIDO BELLUNA ROYAL GENT REF. M024.507.16.041.00

19.  MIDO BELLUNA ROYAL GENT REF. M024.507.16.041.00

This is another good-looking dress watch from Mido. It’s all about the dial with this one. The under-the-hood mechanics are solid, but it’s the dial that stands out. The Mido Belluna Royal Gent we’re examining here is a guilloché-style sunray motif. 

Atop the blue dial are silver sword-style hands and silver applied indexes. There’s also a date window at 3 o’clock. The cushion-shaped stainless steel case measures 41.8mm and sits on the wrist at 10.1mm.

The face of the watch is protected by a sapphire crystal, there’s a signed crown and it’s water resistant to 50 meters. The timepiece is powered by Mido’s automatic ETA movement with an 80-hour power reserve. 

The case has contrasting satin and polished surfaces, and it’s paired with a black alligator leather strap with a folding clasp. This model comes in four different configurations, including some with silver and dark gray dials and those with stainless steel bracelets and gold-tone options. 

Price: $840 

20.  MIDO OCEAN STAR DECOMPRESSION WORLD TIMER REF. M026.829.17.041.00

20.  MIDO OCEAN STAR DECOMPRESSION WORLD TIMER REF. M026.829.17.041.00

We saved one of the best models for last. The Mido Ocean Star Decompression World Timer created quite a splash in the world of watchmaking design recently and has centered more attention on Mido. It’s a busy, fun, funky dial with some Aloha vibes. Mido describes it as an “irresistible neo-vintage style” with its bright colors, antique notes, and modern technology. 

I don’t usually favor a busy dial, but I can see this on my wrist while I surf the Waikiki waves. The dial features various shades of blue, yellow, and salmon. There are white-silver lined hour, minute, and second hands, plus a red GMT hand. 

There’s a date window at 3 o’clock. Various scales are displayed on the dial, including a decompression timer. The outer blue GMT bezel displays cities from around the world. The stainless steel case measures 40.5mm and sits on the wrist at 13.4mm.

The timepiece is powered by Mido’s automatic ETA movement with GMT and date functions. It’s water resistant to 200 meters and features a signed screw-down crown. This is a great all-rounder that performs well in active water sports but also offers GMT functions for pilots and world travelers. Seems like the perfect watch for a Hawaiian Airlines pilot. The timepiece comes with two straps, a blue synthetic strap with a pin buckle, and a mesh stainless steel bracelet. 

Price: $1,310 

Parting Thoughts

I hope you’ve enjoyed our tour of the world of Mido watches. They’re an under-the-radar brand that deserves another look. They offer some excellent collections that have stood the test of time. 

From their cool Ocean Star divers to their iconic Commander, inspired by noteworthy architecture from around the world, to their versatile Multifort, there’s something for everyone. I especially appreciate their finishing quality, consistency, and attention to detail. They’ve also got the right engineering chops and track record to prove it. Check them out; you won’t be disappointed.

do gucci watches hold their value

Gucci is a luxury lifestyle brand that has its origins in Italy. While still headquartered in Italy, they’ve since grown beyond their Italian borders and have become a global force in fashion and a multi-billion dollar company. Their famous double G logo is known the world over as a statement of sophistication and taste. 

Gucci is appreciated for its leather goods, including luggage and handbags, as well as apparel and accessories. One of the accessories they produce is watches, and this is the rub for many watch experts and collectors. They’re not looking for an accessory, a fashion watch; they want something with more horological heft. 

Gucci watches don’t always come at low prices. If one looks over their website, they’ll see plenty of fashion watches for $1,200 to $2,000 and above. This makes it difficult for some watch collectors to justify, as these Gucci watch collections are unlikely to hold their value or appreciate. 

For a long time, Gucci has been known to use cheap quartz movements and contemporary styling that has left collectors scratching their heads at the value. After all, unless one is quite wealthy, who would spend two grand on something that will be “out of vogue” next season? Well, surprising to some, many seem to be willing to do just that, as Gucci has developed into a major presence in the fashion watch market. 

They also seem to have taken some of the horological criticism seriously because, as of 2021, they’ve upped their watch game by adding in-house, Swiss-made, automatic movements to some of their collections. So, let’s take a look at what Gucci watches have to offer and answer the question, do they hold their value?

About Gucci Watches 

The Gucci fashion brand was founded in Florence, Italy, in 1921 by Guicco Gucci. Today Gucci is a subsidiary of the luxury brand, Kering, a French-based, multi-national, multi-billion dollar public corporation.

Gucci started by primarily selling leather goods and accessories but has greatly expanded into apparel for men and women and watches. In the 1970s, with the advent of the quartz movement, suddenly anyone could get in the watch game.

One didn’t have to be an expert watchmaker anymore; a company with good style and the ability to manufacture the case, strap, or bracelet could practically drop in a cheap, mass-produced quartz movement and make it run. Gucci saw the opportunity and seized it. 

As a lifestyle fashion brand, Gucci has understandably focused on the fashion and design of their watches. They’ve often favored contemporary, trendy designs, over the more conservative and timeless designs of Rolex, for example. They’ve also focused less on the inner workings of the watch (that is, until recently). 

This has put them at odds with many watch experts who primarily value a watch company’s history, accomplishments in the industry, track record, and the engineering of their movements. Rolex and Grand Seiko are two luxury watch brands known for making everything that goes into their watches, from the in-house movements to the lubricant that keeps the gears turning.

What Makes Luxury Watches Hold Their Value?

Not all luxury watches hold their value, but the ones that do, tend to do so for the following reasons: 

Brand Reputation & History

Watch collectors and experts are known to not just enjoy beautiful timepieces but also invest in them. They have specific criteria they look for to analyze a brand generally and a specific model’s potential to not only hold but possibly increase in value. 

One of the first factors they consider is the brand’s reputation. What’s their story? Their stories tell us something about who founded them and what their watching-making ideals were and are, but they also present a track record of accomplishments and a measurement of their consistency in the delivery of those goals and objectives. 

Established watchmakers like Patek Philippe, Rolex, and Grand Seiko have rich legacies. They’ve been around for many decades. They’ve proven themselves as innovators in the industry. They’ve built a trusted reputation for engineering watches that won’t quit. Timepieces that are so well-built they’ll last generations.

Timeless Designs 

Established luxury watch brands favor timeless designs. Their collections not only looked great when they were first released, but they are still elegant and striking decades later. This means they don’t get caught up in the fashion trends of the moment but look to classic cues that don’t age.

Think of models like the Omega Speedmaster, Rolex Submariner, and Cartier Tank. Some see these designs as conservative, but smart watch collectors see them as offering a lasting style that will hold up in the long run. 

Build Quality 

Watch brands like Rolex have company foundries where they cast their own high-end metals like 904L steel, grade 5 titanium, and gold. These materials are incredibly durable, remarkably resistant to corrosion and scratches, as well as having a sheen that stands out in contrast to more standard, run-of-the-mill materials. 

Not only do brands like Rolex use the best materials, but the care, craftsmanship, and attention to detail in their work are evident. These watches are built to last, and watch collectors take notice of those attributes and qualities. 

Mechanical Complexity & Innovation

Many fashion brands offer good-looking but simple watches with few functions. High-end luxury brands tend to offer complications, like perpetual calendars and tourbillons. They also make their movements in-house. Many fashion brands use third-party quartz or ETA-type movements that, at best, they alter for their watches.

For example, Tudor, Rolex’s baby brother, in the past used third-party automatic movements, but in recent years they’ve started making their own in-house mechanical movements that are COSC or METAS certified. This has caught the attention of collectors, and as a result, they tend to hold their value and, in some cases, increase in value. 

Limited Production & Exclusivity

No watch company holds its value quite like Rolex. Not only that, but some Rolex watches have even sold for much more than their original MSRP. In fact, in recent years, the Rolex gray market, which used to be the place one went to find a deal on a Rolex, is now the place impatient buyers go to get a watch right now and, in many cases, pay double Rolex’s MSRP. 

The reason for this is the high demand for Rolex watches and the lengthy process it takes to produce a quality timepiece. Many Rolex models have a waiting list that can be months, if not multiple years long. These conditions make for a solid investment. 

No watch company has proven capable of competing with Rolex on resale, but many have created limited edition timepieces and have forged partnerships with artists and/or brand reps to create unique watch models whose popularity outstrips their availability. One example of this is Omega’s Moonwatch. 

The Speedmaster wasn’t originally created as a space watch but was worn by one of NASA’s first astronauts in space, and Omega eventually won the bid to be the official watch of NASA. As a result, all of the first astronauts on the moon wore Omega Speedmasters, and an icon was born that would go on to become a highly desirable collectible.  

Do Gucci Watches Hold Their Value?

Gucci is an impressive luxury lifestyle brand, and their watches offer some stunning designs, but to properly address the question of value retention, let’s put Gucci watches through the rubric outlined above. 

Brand Reputation & History

Gucci is a style icon, but watch collectors are looking for a watch company with a rich horological heritage. Clearly, this is not Gucci’s strong suit. They’re a fashion brand, and it seems they think of watches as a style accessory. 

Timeless Designs

Gucci offers a broad range of watch designs, and some might be styled more conservatively; however, they’re primarily known for their fashion-forward watch styles. What’s hot this season is cold the next. The ideals of the fashion world, therefore, don’t lend to timeless watch design, and this keeps collectors at bay. 

Build Quality 

A luxury watch is expected to last more than a lifetime; often, they become precious family heirlooms. Gucci does seem to put care into the crafting of their watches; however, they’re not known for offering the level of engineering and precision that the more established luxury brands are known for. 

Overall, most watch collectors would pass on Gucci as an investment. However, monetary value is just one factor to consider when buying a watch. If one favors the style of a particular Gucci watch, then buy it. Just don’t expect to get your money out of it down the road.

Do Gucci Watches Appreciate In Value?

If they don’t hold their value, it doesn’t take a watch genius to figure out they’re unlikely to appreciate in value. However, while most Gucci watches are unlikely to make great investments, some models have reportedly appreciated in value. One of their best performers is the Gucci Horsebit watch in stainless steel with a white lacquered dial (Ref. 399350). 

In 2021, Gucci sent signals that they intended to become a serious watchmaker. They’ve released a line of high-end watches with in-house automatic Swiss movements. So, before anyone writes them off, let’s see what the future holds for Gucci watches. Maybe their fast-fashion days are behind them. 

Are There Any Valuable Vintage Gucci Watches?

There are a few standouts, though value is in the eye of the beholder.

1. Gucci 3000M. This model, from the 1990s, featured a 33mm case, and the one I especially favor is in yellow gold tone. The hour markings are in Roman numerals displayed on the bezel. The timepiece has a slim gold-tone hour and minute hands against a green dial with a spade pattern. It features a Swiss-made quartz movement and is paired with a brown leather strap. 

2. Gucci Bamboo. Various versions of the Bamboo have been produced for women since the 70s, I believe. I came across a 1990s vintage version that featured a small rectangular high-polished stainless steel case with a mirror finish paired with a natural bamboo bracelet. It’s quite a unique, lovely timepiece. 

3. Gucci G Watch 3600J. The ‘90s version offered a 26x26mm stainless steel watch case shaped in a square G. The dial is black with two silver hands. The stainless steel three-link bracelet features a twin-button butterfly clasp. This is a watch that remains popular and worth consideration if one can find it in good condition. 

Parting Thoughts

Gucci is a fashion lifestyle brand that offers high-quality leather goods, apparel, and accessories like watches. Their watches are mostly regarded as fashion watches by serious watch collectors and enthusiasts because they don’t have a rich watchmaking heritage, they tend to favor fashion-forward designs that go out of style, and they put a higher premium on fashion over mechanical engineering. 

As a result, they’re not typically considered the brand of choice for investors. However, some of their models have appreciated in value, and they do have some vintage models that have become collectibles. In the last couple of years, they’ve started making their own in-house automatic movements for their high-end collections, and they’re sending signals that they intend to shake up the watch industry. Time will tell (sorry for the “cheesy” pun).

Best big Face & oversize rolex watches

Rolex isn’t exactly known for big watches. Their style is conservative and timeless. For most of their history, many of their men’s watches topped out at 36mm in size. In recent years they’ve added some 40mm plus case sizes to accommodate the larger case trends demanded by the public. 

In this article, we’ll explore collections like their robust Deepsea, which has been used on record-setting dives in the deepest parts of the world’s oceans, to their sporty Yacht-Master II, which tracks sailboat race records on the surface.

About Oversized Rolex Watches

Gone are the days of exclusively smaller men’s case sizes of 34mm and 36mm. Of course, Rolex still offers those, but they’ve now expanded to offer plenty of 40mm-42mm sizes and beyond for most of their collections. From the Datejust workhorse to the iconic Submariner Date to the Explorer II and the Sky-Dweller, there are now many Rolex watches between 41mm and 42mm.

If you’re looking to go even larger, Rolex has collections to accommodate those needs. The Yacht-Master II is 44mm, and the Deepsea Challenge is a beastly 50mm. Rolex offers a wide variety of timepiece sizes, all with unique features to suit every conceivable need and interest. 

Should You Get An Oversized Rolex?

Some simply have a larger frame or bigger build and feel more comfortable with an appropriately proportional timepiece. Others are looking for a statement piece that will be noticed. Yet others are simply looking for features and capabilities that tend to come in larger packages. Whatever the reason, Rolex has a lot of excellent oversized models to consider.

The Best Oversized Rolex Watches 

ROLEX DATEJUST 41MM WHITE DIAL (REF. 126334)

ROLEX DATEJUST 41MM WHITE DIAL (REF. 126334)

The Datejust is known as Rolex’s workhorse. The timepiece features a classic style that hasn’t changed much since it was first introduced in 1945. The original had a 36mm case and that’s been the size for most of its history; however, in recent years, the case has been enlarged to accommodate modern watch trends. 

Model 126334, the current model, has a combination of Oystersteel and white gold case that measures 41mm. There are many ways to customize this watch, with various materials, dial colors, some textured, and some layouts with Roman numbers and diamonds. 

The one we’ve selected has a crisp white dial with white gold hands and indices. There’s a magnified ‘Cyclops’ date window at 3 o’clock. The timepiece can be fitted with either a smooth, understated bezel or the dressier fluted bezel. The one we’ve profiled here is fluted.

Powering the watch is Rolex’s in-house caliber 3235 automatic movement, which has a power reserve of 70 hours. This is a highly accurate, modern movement within -2/+2 seconds per day. It has a screw-down crown and is water-resistant to 100 meters. 

The timepiece can be fitted with either the more casual Oyster, three 3-link bracelet, or the dressier 5-link Jubilee bracelet. Both have secure folding Oyster clasps and 5mm comfort extensions to find one’s perfect fit. The one we’ve profiled here has the Jubilee. 

Price: $10,500 

ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL 41MM CELEBRATION MOTIF (REF. 124300)

ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL 41MM CELEBRATION MOTIF (REF. 124300)

The Oyster Perpetual Celebration is a new Rolex model that’s created quite a stir in the industry. Historically, Rolex designs tend to be classic. As a result, they’re thought of as a watch brand marketed to a more mature clientele. This timepiece says I’m a serious, successful person who can afford a Rolex and appreciate the finer things, but I don’t take myself too seriously. 

It all started in 2020 when Rolex released their 36mm Oyster Perpetual with several new colorful lacquer dials and added some new sizes to the collection. The bright colors included candy pink, green, yellow, coral red, and turquoise. 

The latest celebration motif incorporates all those dial colors into bubbles of various sizes, lined in black and set against a ‘Tiffany blue’ backdrop. The simple, three-hand watch has matching white gold lined hands and indices. 

The OP comes in five different sizes, from 28mm up to 41mm, but you can only get the celebration dial in the 31mm, 36mm, and 41mm cases. The one we’re profiling here is the largest case size, as that’s the driving point of the article. 

Like all steel Rolexes, the case is made from only the highest quality, corrosion-resistant, 904L stainless steel. The case and smooth fixed bezel are polished, and the timepiece is fitted with an Oyster bracelet and clasp with 5mm micro extensions. 

The watch has a screw-down crown and is water-resistant to 100 meters. It’s powered by Rolex’s in-house 3230 automatic movement with a 70-hour power reserve, which is a nice upgrade over the movement included in the smaller-sized versions, under 36mm. 

Price: $6,400 

ROLEX SUBMARINER DATE 41MM (REF. 126610LN)

ROLEX SUBMARINER DATE 41MM (REF. 126610LN)

The Submariner is one of the most recognizable and celebrated collections from Rolex. The Submariner has a rich history as a tool watch with military divers during the Second World War and professional divers. There’s an effortless cool factor to its simple design. It’s not one of the flashy timepieces begging to be noticed, but there’s a heft to its presence on the wrist. 

Made from the highest quality materials, this is a watch that is not only useful and tasteful but is tough and durable, sure to last generations. Filmmaker and explorer James Cameron has recounted how he wore his Submariner Date during his deep-sea voyages to view the sunken wreckage of the Titanic, and it was also on his wrist when he received his Oscars for the film Titanic.

The stainless steel case measures 41mm and is complemented by a polished black ceramic unidirectional bezel. The black lacquered dial is clean and easy to read, with a bright lume that shines in the dark. The hands and indices are lined in white gold, and there’s a Cyclops date window at three o’clock. 

The timepiece is powered by Rolex’s caliber 3235 automatic movement with a 70-hour power reserve. It features a screw-down crown with Triplock triple waterproofness and is water resistant to 300 meters. It’s fitted with a 3-link Oyster bracelet with a folding Oysterlock safety clasp and a Glidelock extension system.

Price: $10,250 

ROLEX EXPLORER II 42MM WHITE DIAL (REF. 226570-0001)

ROLEX EXPLORER II 42MM WHITE DIAL (REF. 226570-0001)

Rolex bills the Explorer II as the watch of choice for speleologists (cave study), volcanologists (volcano study), and polar explorers. It’s easy to see why with the timepiece’s toughness and usefulness, particularly with its tools to distinguish day from night. 

One thing I like about the Explorer II’s design is its brushed steel bezel. Once popular in the ‘70s, that style has fallen out of vogue with most wristwatches in favor of ceramic bezels. Ceramic bezels are ideal, but this is just one design feature that makes this model stand out. 

The stainless steel case of the timepiece measures 42mm. The all-steel design gives it a rugged look. This, combined with its fresh white dial, gives off arctic explorer vibes and brings to mind icy waters and deep caverns. 

The hands and indices are lined in black, except for the orange 24-hour hand. There’s a Cyclops date window at three o’clock. The dial features a long-lasting blue lume for those dark times spent spelunking or perhaps just exploring the city’s nightlife. This, along with a fixed bezel with 24-hour graduations, allows for distinguishing between night and day. 

The timepiece is powered by the caliber 3285 in-house automatic movement with a 70-hour power reserve. The watch has hacking seconds for precise timing. It has a water resistance of up to 100 meters and is fitted with a 3-link Oyster bracelet. 

Price: $9,650 

ROLEX SKY-DWELLER 42MM (REF. 336934-0006)

ROLEX SKY-DWELLER 42MM (REF. 336934-0006)

The Rolex Sky-Dweller has always looked like an enlarged Datejust to me, and it’s packed with lots of additional features like a dual timezone display and an annual calendar. The latest version looks even more like Datejust with the inclusion of the Jubilee bracelet. 

The Oystersteel and white gold case measures 42mm, sits at 14mm on the wrist, and is 50.4mm lug-to-lug. This timepiece is made for larger wrists, 16cm and above. It’s broad and thick but still fits under a dress cuff because of its slopped design. 

The watch has a presence on the wrist but isn’t too overpowering. It has a striking bright blue sunburst dial with an off-center 24-hour wheel. The hands and indices are lined in white gold, and there’s a magnified date window at 3 o’clock.

The signature fluted bezel features the Ring Command System, allowing the wearer to control each of the watch’s functions separately, with the turn of the bezel, in conjunction with the turn of the crown. 

The timepiece is powered by the caliber 9002 automatic movement with a 72-hour power reserve and is water resistant to 100 meters, as noted by the line under the coronet on the crown. All this is paired with the 5-link steel Jubilee bracelet that offers a refined dressy look with its satin and polished finishes while also serving as a durable sports bracelet.

Price: $15,900 

ROLEX YACHT-MASTER 42MM RLX TITANIUM (REF. 226627)

ROLEX YACHT-MASTER 42MM RLX TITANIUM (REF. 226627)

The Yacht-Master shares similar looks with its Submariner Date sibling, but a few design cues distinguish it. First, there’s the look of titanium, with its darker, silver-gray tone. Then there’s the matte black bezel, in contrast to the Submariner’s shiny bezel.

This watch is made from RLX grade 5 titanium. Unlike some lower-grade titanium, this unique blend allows Rolex to offer contrasting satin and polished surfaces that give the watch a more cultured look. This makes it so light you’ll almost doubt it’s an authentic Rolex.

But that’s exactly what’s required in sailing, where every ounce of weight matters. For the enthusiast, it also simply makes for a comfortable wearing experience. The timepiece is powered by Rolex’s 3235 automatic movement with its 70-hour power reserve.

It’s water resistant to 100 meters and is fitted with a 3-link Oyster titanium bracelet with an Oysterlock safety clasp and the Easylink 5mm comfort extension. The price is a steep climb from the Submariner, but if one is a true yacht master, that shouldn’t be a problem. 

Price: $14,050 

ROLEX SEA-DWELLER 43MM (REF. 126600-0002)

ROLEX SEA-DWELLER 43MM (REF. 126600-0002)

The Sea-Dweller is a collection of professional diver’s watches, first released by Rolex in 1967 and originally known as the Sea-Dweller Submariner 2000. The early models were created in partnership with the French diving company Comex (Compagnie Maritime d’Expertises). 

While similar in design to the Submariner, the Sea-Dweller has always been a larger and thicker timepiece, as necessitated by the materials and features needed to endure extreme depth dives, such as a more rugged case construction and a helium escape valve (HEV). 

The current model has a stainless steel case made of Rolex’s famous 904L steel and measures 43mm. The watch sits at 15.5mm on the wrist and measures 21mm in lug width. The unidirectional rotatable bezel features a Creachrom insert, a platinum-coated ceramic made by Rolex that’s scratchproof and unaffected by ultraviolet light.

The black bezel has a nice sheen and a strong, enduring blue lume for legibility in the deep. The black dial, its hands, and indices look nearly identical to the Submariner Date. It now even features a Cyclops date window at 3 o’clock, which is a relatively recent addition since 2017. 

The timepiece is powered by Rolex’s caliber 3235 automatic movement with a 70-hour power reserve. Features included are hacking seconds and instantaneous date. The watch has high-performance shock absorbers and is water-resistant to 1,220 meters. All this is paired with a 3-link Oyster bracelet with a folding Oysterlock clasp and Rolex’s Gridlock extension system.

Price: $13,250 

ROLEX YACHT-MASTER II 44MM (REF. 116680-0002)

ROLEX YACHT-MASTER II 44MM (REF. 116680-0002)

The Yacht-Master II was first introduced in 2007, which exhibited a regatta chronograph. The complex movement allows for a programmable countdown timer used in competitive sailing events. 

The ocean blue bezel, with its gear-link edge, features the Ring Command System, as explored with the Sky-Dweller; however, this one works in coordination with the regatta chronograph, as mentioned above. 

The large Oystersteel case measures 44mm, sits at 14mm on the wrist, and has a lug width of 21mm. The white dial, with its blue outlined regatta wheel, tracks from 1 to 10 minutes, and the smaller sub wheel at 6 o’clock tracks the seconds, up to 60. 

The timepiece is fitted with Rolex’s caliber 4161 automatic movement with a 72-hour power reserve. It features hacking seconds and a programmable countdown with mechanical memory and synchronization. The watch is water resistant to 100 meters and is paired with a three-link Oyster bracelet with a 5mm comfort extension.

Price: $18,700 

ROLEX DEEPSEA 44MM (REF. 136660-0003)

ROLEX DEEPSEA 44MM (REF. 136660-0003)

The Rolex Deepsea is a remarkable feat of engineering. In 2012 filmmaker and explorer James Camron set a record-breaking solo dive in the Mariana Trench, which reaches a depth of 36,000 feet (10,972 meters). Located in the Pacific Ocean, this is the deepest point in the world’s oceans and one that has been relatively unexplored.

Rolex made a special watch for this dive, which could reach such depths, and later produced the Deepsea to commemorate the accomplishment. The Oystersteel case of the Deepsea measures 44mm, sits on the wrist at 17.7mm thick, and is 51.8mm lug-to-lug.

The gradient dial, which goes from blue to the black of the deep, celebrates Cameron’s journey and remarkable accomplishment. It has the same kind of black Cerachrom bezel reviewed with the Sea-Dweller. 

Under the hood is Rolex’s caliber 3235 automatic movement with a 70-hour power reserve. It has instantaneous date and hacking seconds. The crystal is domed and measures 5.5mm thick. There’s a screw-down Triplock triple crown to enhance waterproofness.

The timepiece is rated to withstand depths of 3,900 meters and includes a helium escape value. All this is paired with the durable 3-link Oyster bracelet and the extension system to fit over a wetsuit. This is a substantial watch that has advanced the boundaries of deep-sea exploring. 

Price: $14,460 

ROLEX DEEPSEA CHALLENGE 50MM (REF. 126067)

The Deepsea Challenge is a beast! I once purchased a 50mm watch in the ignorance of my youth, when the trend in watches was the bigger, the better, and apparently, I had something to prove. 

Some thought it was cool; many commented that it looked like I was wearing a wall clock. The crown was so big and protruding that it rubbed a callous into my skin. I don’t expect a broad market for this watch, but I don’t think that matters to Rolex. This was about setting new standards in the capabilities of a diver’s watch, and they did just that. 

As noted above, the Deepsea was created to commemorate James Cameron’s record-setting dive. But, the experimental watch made for that dive, which was attached to the outside of his diving equipment, was made from 904L steel and far too heavy for anyone to wear. 

This version, the Deepsea Challenge, is made from RLX grade 5 titanium, just like the Yacht-Master. This material change made it 30% lighter than the experimental watch and thus possible to wear. 

The titanium case measures 50mm, sits on the wrist at a whopping 23mm in height (no, this isn’t sliding under your dress shirt), and is 61mm from lug to lug. Like the standard Deepsea, it’s powered by the same 3235 automatic movement. 

This one includes Rolex’s Ringlock system with a nitrogen-alloyed steel ring and helium escape value. Of course, it also includes a screw-down Triplock triple waterproof system and is capable of water resistance ratings of 11,000 meters. All this is paired with a titanium bracelet that offers 7mm of extension. 

Price: $25,950 

Parting Thoughts

Whether you’re simply in the market for a fine luxury sports watch that accommodates a larger wrist, or you need something with incredible capabilities and features under the sea, on the surface, or in the sky, Rolex has some smashing models which answer the call. 

The word chronograph is derived from the Greek words “chronos”, meaning time, and “graph”, which means to record or write. Chronograph watches offer multiple subdials with features that can measure elapsed time. Chronographs are often used in sports, aviation, and other activities that require precise timing. Many of these watches offer tachymeters that calculate speed, as used in motor races, for example. 

Movado has been a leader in crafting high-quality, fashion-forward timepieces for over 100 years. In this article, we’ll look at 15 of the best chronographs they make. These watches are both elegant, sporty, and highly functional. We’ll examine a broad range of models, from the more budget-conscious Bold collection to the upmarket Alta collection. 

Watch experts and aficionados can sometimes be critical of Movado, feeling they are more fashion-oriented and not serious watchmakers. It’s true that Movado does seem to cut some quality corners while still commanding a higher price point, leading some to question their value. 

With that said, there’s something iconic and distinctive about Movado watches. Most of their designs are immediately recognizable, modern, and chic. So, if Movado’s designs grab your attention, let’s explore some of their best chronographs on the market. 

About Movado Chronograph Watches

Movado is a Swiss brand that’s been making watches since 1881. Movado produces a mix of luxury and fashion watches. While they produce many types of watches, their chronographs are some of their most desirable. One of Movado’s most celebrated timepieces is the Museum classic Chronograph, which pairs a black dial with a silver case.

The dial includes three registers that mark elapsed seconds, minutes, and hours. Their Bold Chronograph collection is also well regarded with its modern designs, thin profiles, and more affordable prices – some of the models in this collection feature stainless steel cases or leather straps. 

Movado makes a whole range of different watch types, including aviation watches like the SE Pilot. The timepiece offers a tachymeter scale for calculating speed, with its rotating bezel, and is fitted with a leather strap. 

Movado even offers some smartwatches, such as their Connect 2.0, which tracks heart rate, offers GPS guidance, and Google Assistant. The watch is modern and stylish, as one would expect a Movado to be, but it offers a touch screen with a broad range of customizable faces. 

History of Movado Chronograph Watches

Founded over a century ago in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, by Achille Ditesheim, a young entrepreneur with an eye for fashion and a dedication to watchmaking, Movado has made its mark on the watch industry and remains one of the most recognizable and popular watch brands to this day. 

In the 1930s, Movado introduced its Museum Watch with its minimalist design and iconic dot motif. It captured the hearts and minds of a watch-adoring public. To this day, it’s one of their most sought-after and admired models. 

Starting in the ‘40s, Movado introduced their first chronographs. These watches offered stopwatch functions for precise timing. By the 1950s, their Datron collection was a favorite among athletes and well-regarded in the world of sports. 

The release of the Kingmatic, in the 1960s, with its self-winding movement, became a popular choice with pilots, offering features to make quick flight calculations. 

By the ‘80s, Movado had fully embraced the quartz craze and offered Datron models powered by quartz chronograph movements. The quartz movements only added to the reliability of their timekeeping features. 

In the ‘90s, Movado introduced the Vizio, a rectangular chronograph featured in the movies and on television, and became popular among the more fashion-conscious. Movado’s chronographs of the current era are just as desirable and popular as ever. 

The Best Movado Chronographs 

MOVADO ALTA SE AUTOMATIC CHRONOGRAPH BLACK & WHITE 

MOVADO ALTA SE AUTOMATIC CHRONOGRAPH BLACK & WHITE 

The Alta SE Chrono by Movado is a smart-looking watch designed to be sporty and dressy. Movado in Esperanto (a constructed international auxiliary language that’s fallen out of use) is translated as ‘always in motion.’ Alta is translated as ‘the peak.’

Apparently, the message this sends is if you keep moving, you’ll get to the top. I can’t speak to the authenticity of that promise, but I think it’s safe to say this watch will keep you looking classy at the summit or in the valley. 

Do you like dots? If so, you’re going to love this timepiece. Movado is famous for its dot motif at the 12 o’clock position. Not only does this dial feature a silver dot, but there are dots around the bezel and down the center of the stainless steel bracelet. 

The stainless steel case measures 43mm with a black ceramic bezel and tachymeter. The sides of the case are highly polished, and there’s a screw-down signed crown. The black sunray-textured face of the watch offers three silver-white registers, silver hands, and a date window between 4 and 5 o’clock. The face of the timepiece is protected by an anti-reflective sapphire crystal. 

The open caseback displays the Caliber 145M automatic movement, which is rather attractive, with its gold gears and blue screws. It also provides a 62-hour power reserve and is water-resistant to 100 meters. The three-row bracelet has contrasting outer polished links with inner stain-finished links. 

Price:$3,795 

MOVADO ALTA SUPER SUB SEA AUTOMATIC WHITE DIAL

MOVADO ALTA SUPER SUB SEA AUTOMATIC WHITE DIAL

This classy-looking timepiece puts off yachtsman vibes to my eye. I can see this on the wrist of a man dressed in linen on the deck of his motor yacht, smoking a fine Cuban cigar. I can also see this paired with a blue suit in the boardroom. 

The deep ocean blue bezel, with a coin edge, has white markings and a yellowish triangle at the top. The matte white dial features silver-lined Super-LumiNova hands, indices, and accents. There are three blue registers, matching the bezel color, and a date window at 4.30.

The 43mm case and the three-row bracelet are made from 904 steel, the same type of steel used by Rolex for their watches. There’s a screw-down crown and a water resistance of up to 200 meters. The timepiece is powered by the Caliber 146M movement, with a 62-hour power reserve. 

Price: $3,995

MOVADO SERIES 800 CHRONOGRAPH BLUE DIAL

MOVADO SERIES 800 CHRONOGRAPH BLUE DIAL

This is an attention-grabbing modern blue wristwatch that straddles the line between sporty and dressy. The blue diver’s bezel has white markings and a blue sunray dial with silver-lined hands and indices. A date window sits at 3 o’clock, and Movado is printed in white, just below their iconic silver dot and above the text Series 800 written in red.

The stainless steel and aluminum case measures 40mm. There’s a sapphire crystal that protects the face of the watch and a 200-meter water resistance. The watch is powered by a Swiss quartz movement. This is paired with a three-link, stainless steel bracelet with satin outer links and polished inner links. This is a fetching timepiece that you can expect to get noticed and complimented on. 

Price: $1,195

MOVADO BOLD THIN ALL BLACK CHRONOGRAPH

MOVADO BOLD THIN ALL BLACK CHRONOGRAPH

The name aptly describes the fundamentals of the watch’s design. It is indeed all black and thin. However, this watch must be seen to be fully appreciated. Movado is known for its modern simplicity, and this model doesn’t depart from that modality.

It’s sleek and stylish. I can see this on the wrist of an executive or attorney, and it will perfectly complement their tailored suits and black-on-black company cars. 

The watch case is made of black ionic-plated stainless steel, which measures 42mm. That’s a nice size on the wrist that matches with current trends, which have shifted away from the extra-large statement watches, but still remain larger than the vintage timepieces of yesteryear.

With its three registers, the black dial bears no markings other than the Movado dot at 12 o’clock with a silver ring around it and a charcoal gray print at 6 o’clock, detonating that the watch is a Swiss-made Movado. 

The timepiece is powered by a Swiss quartz movement that’s water-resistant to 30 meters. This should therefore be regarded as a dress watch that is splash resistant but shouldn’t be taken for a swim. It’s fitted with a black leather strap and tang buckle. Movado also makes similar all-black models with black bracelets. 

Price: $695 

MOVADO HERITAGE SERIES CALENDOPLAN CHRONOGRAPH GUNMETAL BRACELET

MOVADO HERITAGE SERIES CALENDOPLAN CHRONOGRAPH GUNMETAL BRACELET

This is a model that brings something old and something new. Movado has long been known for its calendar movements, hence the name. Movado first introduced its Calendoplan line in the 1950s, and this is a nod to that ear, but with some modern touches. One design change you’ll notice is they moved the dot off the dial and onto the bezel. 

The black bezel and dial of the watch are handsomely paired with gray ion-plated stainless steel, which Movado is calling gunmetal, for a sophisticated, upmarket appearance. The case measures 42mm, and the dial features three registers, two with sporty squiggly hands and a date window inside the 6 o’clock subdial. The timepiece has gold lettering and white luminescent hands and indices. 

Inside the watch is a Swiss quartz chronograph movement. The timepiece is water-resistant to 50 meters, which one could theoretically take for a brief swim, but it’s certainly not made for water sports. The gray Ion-Plated three-link stainless steel bracelet, with a two-button release butterfly clap, offers contrasting satin and high polish surfaces. 

Price: $1,295 

MOVADO FACE ALL BLACK CHRONOGRAPH 

MOVADO FACE ALL BLACK CHRONOGRAPH 

Many of the Movado timepieces are similar, and yet there are subtle differences worth appreciating. The Movado Face is a 43mm black ion-plated stainless steel case. The black museum motif dial includes a concave dot with muted markings around the dial’s outer rim to note the time. There are three registers on the dial with a red seconds hand and sub hand for a nice touch of color.

At 6 o’clock is the Movado logo printed in gray; except for that, the dial is as clean, simple, and modern as it gets.  The timepiece is powered by a Swiss quartz chronograph movement and its water restraint to 30 meters. The face of the watch is protected by a K1 crystal. K1 crystal is a composite that blends the shock resistance of plastic with the scratch resistance of glass.

For the price point, this is an acceptable crystal, but it doesn’t compare to the sapphire crystal found on higher-end watches, which would be noticeably superior. All this is paired with a black leather strap and tang buckle for a rather chic look. 

Price: $750

MOVADO BOLD TR90

MOVADO BOLD TR90

The Bold TR90 comes in ten different configurations, some with chronograph and date functions and others with simple, clean dials. Some have classic black dials; others feature bright colors of blue, turquoise, and red. There are brown and black, smooth, and perforated leather bands, along with black ion-plated bracelets. There are many options to suit one’s taste.

The one we’re highlighting here has a 43.5mm black stainless steel case and a black dial with three blue registers. The subdial at 6 o’clock is larger than the other two and features a date window in white. The hands and the blue dot are also a deep blue. There’s a gray outer ring around the dial with the Movado logo at six o’clock. 

The watch is powered by a Swiss quartz chronograph movement and is water resistant to 30 meters. The two-link black bracelet with center-polished links is as sleek and smart as they come and includes a deployment clasp for greater security. 

Price: $850

MOVADO MUSEUM SPORT BLACK DIAL CHRONOGRAPH 

MOVADO MUSEUM SPORT BLACK DIAL CHRONOGRAPH 

The Museum Sport collection offers eight configurations with perforated black leather straps or stainless steel bracelets, some coated black, yellow-gold, or gray. Some of the dials are black with yellow-gold hands and indices; some are blue, and some are all black. A couple are simple dials, but most are chronographs, and all have date windows. 

The configuration we’re highlighting here has a black sandpaper finish to the dial, three black hands with white lume, three black subdials, and piano-black polished indices that contrast nicely with the rough finish. There’s a date window at 4 o’clock and a fixed black bezel on the outer rim. 

The timepiece is water-resistant to 30 meters and powered by a Swiss quartz chronograph movement. While this is a sportier look than many of Movado’s other dress watches, the modest water resistance is a reminder that this isn’t a true sports watch. 

The gray and black PVD-finished stainless steel case measures 43mm. The face of the watch is protected by a sapphire crystal, which is a nice upgrade over many of the lower-budget models Movado offers. The timepiece is completed with a perforated black calfskin leather strap with a tang buckle. 

Price: $995 

MOVADO STRATO CHRONOGRAPH BLUE PVD

The Strato is one head-turner of a timepiece. The 44mm case and bracelet are finished in what Movado describes as blue and light blue PVD-finished stainless steel. Whatever one calls it, it’s simply beautiful and as smooth as silk. The matte blue dial is a chronograph featuring three registers and a blue-tinted transparent date ring inlay, with the actual date in white at 4 o’clock. 

One of the subdial hands is yellow, matching the yellow tip on the seconds hand and the yellow line through the 12 o’clock dot. The hands and indices have a white lume. There’s a printed, fixed bezel on the outer dial.

The watch face is protected by a sapphire crystal and is water resistant to 30 meters. The timepiece is powered by a Swiss quartz chronograph movement. The link bracelet is as stunning as the case and features a twin push-button deployment clasp. This timepiece is a work of art and is bound to garner a lot of attention.

Price: $2,195 

MOVADO ALTA SE AUTOMATIC CHRONOGRAPH BLACK & GOLD

MOVADO ALTA SE AUTOMATIC CHRONOGRAPH BLACK & GOLD

Black and gold always pair nicely together for a sleek and classic look. The Alta Se Auto Chrono has a 43mm stainless steel case and black ceramic bezel with a tachymeter. The gray brushed sunray dial has three registers and gold-toned lined hands and indices. The dot at 12 o’clock is gold toned, as are the dots around the bezel.

There’s even a gold-lined date window between 4 and 5 o’clock. Movado calls this a sport-elegant design, which captures the essence of the timepiece in a phrase. The watch is powered by a Swiss automatic chronograph movement and is water-resistant to 100 meters. There’s a screw-down crown and open caseback, showing off the beauty of the movement.

The fluid three-row bracelet with satin and brushed surfaces displays the gold dot down the center of the links and is completed with a twin trigger deployment clasp. This model is not only fashionable but also includes many of the features and materials one would expect from a luxury timepiece, like the automatic movement, sapphire crystal, screw-down crown, and respectable water resistance. 

Price: $3,995 

MOVADO BOLD VERSO GOLD

MOVADO BOLD VERSO GOLD

The Bold Verso comes in 19 different configurations. This one is in yellow gold ion-plated stainless steel. The case measures 44mm and has a fixed bezel and tachymeter. The dial of the timepiece is a sunburst gold with three registers, including a day pointer and a date window at 4 o’clock. There is a gold-toned marking around the outer edge of the dial with white lumed hour markings.

At 12 o’clock, there’s a gold-toned dot. The watch is powered by a Swiss quartz chronograph movement and is water-resistant to 50 meters. The timepiece is paired with a yellow gold ionic-plated stainless steel link bracelet with a twin trigger deployment clap. The bracelet’s center links are high polish and provide a sophisticated contrast. 

This is a substantial-looking timepiece that would pair nicely with a gold wedding band, and while yellow gold can look good with all skin tones, it looks especially attractive with warmer tones. So, if that’s you, you’ve found some additional reasons to consider the Verso Gold.

Price: $995 

MOVADO ALTA SUPER SUB SEA AUTOMATIC BLACK DIAL

MOVADO ALTA SUPER SUB SEA AUTOMATIC BLACK DIAL

The Alta Super Sub offers a nod to the 1960s original with its smart, mid-century design. Expertly crafted from Dura904 steel, the case measures 43mm. The black bezel is made of ceramic, and there’s a sapphire crystal protecting the face of the wristwatch.

The dial is black with Arabic indexes, and while the dial is sans the Movado dot motif, it does feature dots around the bezel. In place of the iconic dot is the Movado M Chevron logo in silver. The three registers on the dial are white, and there’s a date window between 4 and 5 o’clock. 

The timepiece has a screw-down crown and is water-resistant to 200 meters. Under the hood is a Swiss automatic chronograph movement visible through the open casebook and offers a 62-hour power reserve. The three-row bracelet is also made of Dura904 steel and has contrasting satin links on the sides and polished links down the center, giving the watch an upmarket style. 

Price: $3,995 

MOVADO BOLD VERSO BRONZE

MOVADO BOLD VERSO BRONZE

This version of the Bold Verso in bronze ion-plated stainless steel is a refined pairing of materials and color combinations. The stainless steel case measures 44mm, and there’s a fixed gray bezel. The dial is a sunburst gunmetal with indexes.

The bronze hands and ring around the dot play well off the dial. There’s a pointer day and a date window at 4 o’clock. The timepiece has a Swiss quartz chronograph movement and is water-resistant to 50 meters. The face of the watch is protected by K1 crystal.

All this is fitted with a black leather strap with a tan lining and a tang buckle. The Verso Bronze is simply a fine-looking dress watch that may not have a loud presence, but when it’s noticed, it will surely be admired. 

Price: $795

MOVADO HERITAGE SERIES CIRCA ROSE GOLD

MOVADO HERITAGE SERIES CIRCA ROSE GOLD

Rose gold pairs well with every skin tone and can be rather versatile. The Heritage Series circa in Rose Gold presents with a vintage-inspired dial. There’s a printed tachymeter on the outer rim of the dial, three registers, and a date window between 4 and 5 o’clock.

The black dial, white lettering, rose gold hands, and indices offer a classy display. There’s something about this timepiece that’s mature and refined. 

The watch is powered by a Swiss quartz chronograph movement and is water resistant to 30 meters. The face of the watch is protected by a sapphire crystal, which is a worthy upgrade. The black alligator leather strap with a rose gold tang buckle adds another level of distinction over a simple calfskin. 

Price: $995 

MOVADO BOLD FUSION

There are many Bold Fusion models by Movado with various color and material combinations with straps and bracelets, as well as chronographs and other features. The one we’re exploring here is an eye-catching bronze ion-plated stainless steel case that measures 44.5mm. The smooth ceramic black bezel is fixed and plain but frames the timepiece well. 

The dial is a beautiful brushed sunburst bronze/rose gold with three black registers. The hour and minute hands are black, and the second hand is a lighter, polished rose gold. The hour indexes are black, and there’s a black ring around the dot. There’s a date window at 4 o’clock for added functionality. 

The face of the watch is protected by a K1 crystal and offers a Swiss quartz chronograph movement inside. It’s water resistant to 50 meters and includes a black silicone strap that’s attached to the timepiece with bronze end pieces and is secured to the wrist with a bronze tang buckle. This is a sporty and elegant timepiece that reminds me of a more upmarket design from a brand like Hublot. 

Price: $895 

Closing Thoughts

While the experts might be divided on this brand, the real question is, what do you think about Movado? Personally, I find their minimalist design to be the definition of understated elegance. While some of their models lack the basic standards one might expect in a luxury watch, their designs are so captivating and classy that they deserve a spot in your collection or at least your consideration. All of the chronographs explored in this article won’t disappoint and are sure to solicit many compliments.  

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