Category: Watch Reviews

When it comes to case sizes, 40mm has always felt like a sweet spot for many of us. It’s big enough to show off, whether that means bold design details or more advanced movements than your classic day and date, but still comfortably wearable day in and day out.

For many of us, it’s the perfect middle ground, being not too chunky nor too dainty, still sliding nicely under a shirt cuff when it needs to and looking sharp but not obtrusive in dressier settings.

And while it’s often marketed as a “men’s size,” a lot of us women (myself included) love the presence and punch of a 40mm case too. It’s confident, versatile, and doesn’t try too hard.

So if you’ve landed on 40mm as your sweet spot, you’re in the right place. This list is dedicated entirely to watches that are a true, no-fudging 40mm across. Not 39.5mm, not 40.5mm but just straight-up 40mm.

Who Would Suit a 40mm Wide Watch?

A 40mm watch tends to look right at home on wrists measuring around 6 to 7 inches in circumference. Typically, on this size wrist, 40mm strikes that happy balance between presence and proportion.

It’s large enough to stand out without overwhelming your wrist, and the proportions usually mean the lugs don’t hang awkwardly over the edge.

That said, these are just general guidelines, not hard rules. I always say you should never let a sizing chart, or anyone else’s ideal case size talk you out of the watch you love.

If your wrist is a bit larger but you prefer a more classic, compact look, 40mm might be exactly what you’re after. On the flip side, if you’ve got smaller wrists, especially common among women, but you’re into bolder, more statement-y pieces, 40mm can absolutely work.

It’s all about how it feels to you. I always suggest trying on a 40mm size for yourself. See how it sits, how it feels and if you love it, choose it. Watch wearing is supposed to be enjoyable, so choose the watches that make you happy, whether it’s a little big, small or perfectly in proportion.

The Best 40mm Watches You Can Buy

So, whether you’re already a 40mm fan or you’re new to discovering how well it suits your wrist, we’ve rounded up some of the best 40mm watches you can get your hands on right now.

There’s no size guesswork, no rounding up or down, just solid, true 40mm picks that look great, wear even better, and cover everything from everyday staples to statement pieces.

Rolex Day-Date 40

If you’re thinking classic elegance, the Rolex Day-Date deserves to be right at the top of this list. Originally introduced in 1956, it was the world’s first wristwatch to spell out the full day of the week alongside the date.

Fast forward to 2015, and Rolex unveiled the Day-Date 40 as a refined update with modern proportions and Rolex’s cutting-edge caliber 3255 movement under the hood.

Sized at a true 40mm, it keeps the signature look of the original but wears just a bit bolder, with slimmer lugs and a balanced dial layout that still feels timeless but never stuffy.

It’s only available in precious metals like yellow gold, Everose, white gold, or platinum, so it’s not the cheapest of 40mm watches out there, but definitely a good investment piece.

Every model comes on the iconic three-link President bracelet, which is as comfortable as it is recognizable.

Price start from $51,000

Omega De Ville Trésor

Most people think of Omega and immediately picture a Seamaster or Speedmaster, icons of dive and space watch fame. But neither is currently available in a true 40mm case, which gives us the perfect opportunity to spotlight one of Omega’s quieter, more refined gems: the De Ville Trésor.

Originally introduced back in 1949, the Trésor line has always leaned elegant. The modern 40mm version keeps that DNA intact with a sleek, ultra-thin case and a design that’s all about restraint and sophistication.

But the manually-wound Co-Axial Master Chronometer movement, caliber 8927, inside is anything but old-fashioned, boasting impressive precision, anti-magnetism, and a beautifully finished display case back.

Finishing the model is a polished case, often seen in yellow gold or other precious metals, paired with a domed dial and simple sub-seconds layout to channel the spirit of vintage dress watches.

Price starts from $7,400

Patek Philippe Nautilus Perpetual Calendar

The Nautilus is already a legend in the world of luxury sports watches, but in 2018, Patek Philippe added a serious twist to its design with a perpetual calendar.

Officially known as the first Grand Complication in the Nautilus lineup, this model blends haute horlogerie with unmistakable everyday wear all in a remarkably slim 40mm white gold case.

At just 8.42mm thick, it stays sleek thanks to the ultra-thin Caliber 240 Q movement, which somehow fits a perpetual calendar, moonphase, and 24-hour indicator into a case that still feels like a true Nautilus.

The signature porthole design remains intact, complete with a horizontally embossed sunburst blue dial, luminous white gold markers, and just enough visual complexity to draw you in without overwhelming the eye.

Price starts from $169,220

Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Complete Calendar

A modern tribute to a 1956 classic, the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Complete Calendar cleverly blends vintage elegance with contemporary watchmaking.

It’s inspired by reference 6073, a historic Vacheron Constantin, and features a refined 40mm case available in 18K pink gold or stainless steel whose design echoes the brand’s iconic Maltese cross.

Its sector dial balances functionality with beauty, combining a sunburst hour track and opaline center and of course, a complete calendar complication with day, date, and month indicators, and a moon phase accurate for 122 years.

A blued pointer hand tracks the date which harmonizes perfectly with the midnight-blue moon disc. Through the sapphire case back, the self-winding Calibre 2460 QCL/1 is visible bearing the Poinçon de Genève motif and an open worked 22K gold rotor shaped like the Maltese cross.

Price starts from $27,400

Grand Seiko Hi Beat “White Birch” SLGH005

Grand Seiko has many brilliant 40mm watches in its portfolio that are all worth your time, but a model I’ve had a lot of hands-on time with in the past which I think about on the daily is the “White Birch” SLGH005.

Inspired by the pale trunks of birch trees near Grand Seiko’s Shizukuishi studio, this watch’s textured silver dial is a masterclass in detail. With deep grooves and a rich metallic finish, it captures the quiet beauty of nature in a perfectly sized 40mm case.

Part of Grand Seiko’s Evolution 9 collection, it’s also well sized at just 11.7mm thick so it hits the sweet spot between sporty and dressy.

It comes with the Japanese watchmaker’s famous Zaratsu-polished lugs, brushed flanks, and a box-shaped sapphire crystal give the watch an elevated presence on the wrist while inside, the 9SA5 high-beat movement offers 80 hours of power, showcases a next-gen escapement and reveals stunning finishing through the sapphire case back.

Price starts from $9,300

Breitling Chronomat GMT 40

Since there’s no 40mm Navitimer, though if you’re a fan of pilot’s watches, the Navitimer 41 is well worth checking out, the Chronomat GMT 40 is my go-to from Breitling.

While the Chronomat traditionally meant “chronograph + automatic,” this model ditches the chrono for a more streamlined design that still feels very Breitling.

You get the iconic Rouleaux bracelet, the distinctive onion crown, and a tough-but-slim 40mm stainless steel case that wears comfortably with its 11.77mm thickness and 47.4mm lug-to-lug profile.

The GMT functionality is practical, especially for those juggling time zones, thanks to the caller-style GMT hand. It’s powered by the Breitling Caliber 32, a COSC-certified movement with 42 hours of reserve.

What I really appreciate is how this watch balances sportiness with subtlety. The 200m water resistance makes it capable, but the clean dial and understated rehaut-printed 24-hour scale give it versatility for work, travel, and weekend wear.

Price starts from $5,600

TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 Solargraph

The TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 Solargraph is a welcome reminder that great watches don’t always need winding or fanfare to shine. On paper, it’s a sleek, solar-powered diver powered by the TH50-00 quartz movement that’s accurate, low-maintenance, and endlessly convenient.

On the wrist, it becomes even more compelling at just 9.97mm thick and 40mm wide so it wears effortlessly but sporty remains enough for daily adventure.

My favourite part of this model is the semi-translucent dial which reveals deep horizontal striations, crisp sunburst finishing, and soft accents that add just the right amount of personality.

Lume is bright, thoughtfully color-coded, and feels purpose-built rather than gimmicky. Even the steel case’s angular lines and polished facets start to shine the more time you spend with it.

Price starts from $2,500

IWC Portugieser Automatic 40

Next we have the IWC Portugieser Automatic 40, a model inspired by a 1930s commission from two Portuguese businessmen.

Even after all this time, it’s a design that has stayed remarkably true to its roots keeping the same slim bezel, Arabic numerals, feuille hands, and that signature recessed seconds subdial at six.

At 40mm wide and just 12.3mm thick, it wears with graceful presence, offering the refinement of a true dress watch but enough heft to feel substantial day-to-day.

Powered by IWC’s in-house Caliber 82200 with a 60-hour power reserve and Pellaton winding system, it pairs traditional aesthetics with thoroughly modern reliability.

The lacquered dials, available in soft tones like silver, green, salmon, and blue, bring surprising depth, especially under the double box sapphire crystal.

There’s also no date to clutter the dial, and no complication to distract from what this watch does best: deliver quiet luxury with heritage.

Price starts from $7,300

Longines Spirit 40mm

When it comes to Longines, the brand’s catalogue has often leaned on heritage. From the Heritage Military to the Avigation BigEye, the Saint-Imier-based manufacturer has long excelled at reaching into its archives to reintroduce classic references with contemporary mechanical upgrades all at really nice case sizes. But for me, one of their best vintage executions is the Longines Spirit 40mm.

This time-and-date model manages to be at once sharp and restrained, full of small, thoughtful details that elevate it from utilitarian tool to everyday staple.

Designed not as a one-for-one vintage revival but as a modern reinterpretation of the classic pilot’s watch, it combines its 40mm diameter with a 12.2mm thickness, stainless steel brushed case, oversized and onion-shaped crown and leather straps.

The dial, which is available in a range of shades, suits the overall look with a matte, subtly grained surface, applied Arabic numerals and a date window at 3 o’clock.

Price starts from $2,150

Chopard L.U.C XPS

Before we go into slightly more affordable 40mm watch territory, we couldn’t leave out the Chopard L.U.C XPS. It’s a timepiece that has redefined what an ultra-thin dress watch can be with a 40mm Lucent Steel case, crafted from an alloy with at least 80% recycled content, and a slim profile of just 7.20mm.

The case pairs with a dial in black, silver, or my personal favourite, green, with a sector layout, off-white markers and rhodium-plated dauphine hands that catch the light beautifully.

It’s a 40mm watch that doesn’t just look good but it also has the L.U.C 96.12-L calibre inside that is a COSC-certified chronometer, boasting a 65-hour power reserve and an automatic winding system driven by an ethical 22k gold micro-rotor.

Pair this with a smooth leather strap, and you get a versatile timepiece that effortlessly transitions from casual to formal settings.

Price starts from $11,800

Hamilton American Classic Intra-Matic Auto Chrono

When most people think of 40mm chronographs, Hamilton might not be the first name that comes to mind, but the American Classic Intra-Matic Auto Chrono is a real gem.

Based on the brand’s 1968 Chronograph A and the slightly later Chrono-Matic, this 40mm release strikes a great balance between heritage styling and modern wearability.

If it were me, I’d head straight for the panda dial layout with its crisp and legible display that gives strong vintage energy without leaning into kitsch.

Under the hood is Hamilton’s H -31 movement (based on the Valjoux 7753), offering 60 hours of power reserve and smooth chronograph operation.

The 40mm stainless steel case is nicely proportioned, wide enough to feel sporty, but with a case shape that helps it sit more comfortably on the wrist than some thicker chronos out there.

Price starts from $2,395

Fears Brunswich 40

The Fears Brunswick 40 marks a confident evolution for the British watchmaker, building on the legacy of the original and popular 38mm model.

With a larger 40mm cushion-shaped case and a newly developed five-link bracelet, it strikes a perfect balance between sporty and elegant, something Fears calls “beach-to-boardroom”.

The polished bezel contrasts beautifully with the brushed stainless steel case, and domed sapphire crystal adds vintage charm.

Inside is the reliable Swiss ETA 2824-2 automatic movement, finished with Côtes de Genève and a custom rotor, though hidden behind a closed case back.

The collection features several core dials including Opaline Silver, Fears Blue, Flamingo Pink and Aurora (which is blue mother of pearl).

Several special editions are also available, including the Boutique Edition with a deep emerald green dial and the limited Odyssey Edition, inspired by explorer Angus Collins’ GBO challenge.

Prices start from $3,750

Nomos Tangomat GMT

Nomos is one of my all-time favorite watch brands. I’ve always loved Bauhaus-inspired design, and this German maker consistently nails the balance between minimalism and mechanical brilliance.

For a moment, I thought I’d have to skip Nomos in this list of 40mm watches, since I know they have plenty of 39mm and 41mm models, but nothing right on the 40mm mark… until I remembered the Nomos Tangomat GMT.

This quietly brilliant travel watch is an understated gem. At 40mm wide and just under 11mm thick, it wears larger than a standard Tangente thanks to the automatic DUW 5201 caliber and clever complication layout.

The watch tracks local and home time simultaneously, with 24 global time zones denoted by crisp airport codes. The dial is clean and silver-plated, paired with heat-blued hands and Nomos’ signature Glashütte finishing.

Price starts from $4,920

Tissot PRX Powermatic 80

This is another of my favourite brands and a watch I own myself, in both the 35mm and 40mm sizes, so it’s safe to say the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 holds a special place in my collection.

If you’re drawn to integrated bracelet watches but not keen on spending Royal Oak money, this is arguably the best value-for-money option out there.

Inspired by Tissot’s 1978 Seastar, the PRX delivers 70s sport-luxury style with its barrel-shaped case, integrated steel bracelet, and stunning “Clous de Paris” textured dial.

Inside is equally impressive, housing the Swiss-made Powermatic 80 automatic movement boasting a whopping 80-hour power reserve and anti-magnetic Nivachron hairspring.

At 40mm, the case wears slim and refined at just 10.9mm thick, and with 100m water resistance, sapphire crystal, and a see-through case back, it punches well above its price tag.

Price starts from $775

Oris Big Crown Pointer Date

The Oris Big Crown Pointer Date is a 40mm watch that has truly stood the test of time. First introduced in 1938 for pilots, its distinctive oversized crown and central date pointer hand remain signature features to this day, all housed within a modest sized 40 mm stainless steel case. It also boasts domed sapphire crystal and a see-through case back.

Inside beats Oris’s Caliber 754 automatic movement offering 38 hours of power reserve and reliable precision. The straps come in a range of colours and metals including sustainably sourced leather or three-row link steel bracelets, just like the dials which can be ordered in timeless navy or black, or more unexpected and playful tones like mustard yellow, peachy pink, or gorgeous teal.

Price starts from $2,300

Farer Maze III GMT

Our next affordable 40mm watch comes from Farer and is named the Maze III GMT. As its name suggests, it’s a watch that’s now in its third generation and sports a slimmer, more wearable 40mm stainless steel case, curved “ski slope” lugs, and a box sapphire crystal that adds vintage character without bulk. It’s water resistant to 200 meters and features a screw-down crown, making it a true tool watch.

A pearlescent white tile pattern serves as the base for oversized black gloss markers and hands, packed with icy blue X1 Super-LumiNova for unmatched nighttime legibility.

The GMT hand pops in postbox red, working in harmony with the black and white sapphire bezel to let you track a second time zone at a glance. The movement elected is the Sellita SW330-2 made visible through an exhibition case back.

Price starts at $1,150

Seiko Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver’s

Another 40mm dive watch worth your time and money is the Seiko Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver’s. It’s a modern evolution of the 62MAS, Japan’s and Seiko’s very first dive watch.

Reimagined for today’s adventurers, this 40mm stainless steel diver blends vintage character with serious performance boasting a barrel-shaped case, curved lugs, and a mix of brushed and polished finishes to deliver classic tool-watch aesthetics.

Water resistance is what you’d expect from a Seiko diver, boosted to a professional-grade 300 meters, meeting ISO standards and reinforced by a screw-down crown and case back.

The coin-edged unidirectional bezel and curved sapphire crystal complete the rugged build. For the dial, you can choose from classic black, deep navy “Scuba Blue”, or a special “Tide Grey” anniversary edition with gold-tone accents.

Price starts from $1,300

Citizen Tsuyosa Automatic 40mm

Offering an impressive blend of sports elegance and affordability, the Citizen Tsuyosa Automatic 40mm stands out in the crowded integrated sports watch genre.

Its barrel-shaped stainless steel case features mostly matte, vertically brushed surfaces, complemented by a polished fixed bezel for a subtle contrast.

At just 11.7mm thick, it wears comfortably, while the integrated three-row bracelet with rounded links and folding clasp adds to the sleek profile.

Under the hood, the in-house Calibre 8210 automatic movement powers the watch, delivering a reliable 40-hour power reserve and 21,600 vibrations per hour.

A sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating protects the dial, which comes in an array of vibrant sunray-brushed colours from classic black and navy blue to bold green, yellow, and a fresh pastel blue. There are few 40mm automatic watches as high value as this one.

Price starts from $300

Orient Mako 40

40mm dive watches aren’t easy to come by, with most tipping the scales at 42mm or above but the Orient Mako 40 is one of the few – and also one of the most affordable.

The watch sports a sleek 40mm stainless steel case equipped with an unguarded screw-down crown and a clean dial layout with bold bar-shaped hour markers and luminous hands for easy reading underwater.

Powered by Orient’s in-house F6722 automatic movement, it offers a solid 40-hour power reserve, hand-winding, and hacking capabilities for a nice level of precision and reliability.

Water resistance is rated at 200 metres, making it suitable for serious diving activities and there’s even sapphire crystal glass to protect the dial which again is a rarity in a watch at this price point.

The dial is available in a striking range of colours from traditional navy and black to vibrant apricot, lilac and ruby red.

Price starts from $450

Timex Marlin Chronograph

Last but certainly not least in today’s rundown of the best 40mm watches, we’ve saved the most affordable for last: the Timex Marlin Chronograph.

This model taps into the much-loved “panda” dial style characterized by its silver sunray-brushed surface contrasted with black subdials.

It’s a design popularized by luxury icons like the Rolex Daytona and TAG Heuer Carrera but what makes Timex’s take so exciting is the price point. At just $209, it offers vintage chronograph charm without breaking the bank.

Housed in a polished 40mm stainless steel case, the Marlin Chronograph features a domed acrylic crystal and quartz-powered movement for reliable precision.

For the dial, a black tachymeter scale is added around the outer minute track for a sporty edge and retro-style black numerals and square markers are positioned at key hours to keep the dial clean and readable.

It also has 50 meters of water resistance and comes on a choice of a black leather strap or fine link bracelet.

Price starts from $209

Conclusion

If you asked me, 40mm might just be the perfect case size. It suits almost everyone; big enough to have presence, small enough to stay versatile, and always looks the part, whether you’re dressing up or down.

Sure, it might lean slightly oversized on some wrists and slightly compact on others, but that’s kind of the beauty of it: 40mm has an uncanny ability to just work.

And thankfully, for all of us who love that sweet spot, there’s no shortage of incredible 40mm watches out there. From haute horlogerie masterpieces in solid gold to everyday tool watches packed with tech, there’s truly something for everyone whatever your taste, lifestyle, or budget.

So whether you’re adding your first 40mm to the collection or just looking for the next great piece to wear on rotation, this list is a great place to start.

A popular collaboration between Swatch and Omega watchmakers, the MoonSwatch is popular for more than just its collaborative design. It’s originally inspired by the Speedmaster Moonwatch, which found plenty of success on its own.

From the celestial influence down to the technical details in the engineering, there’s a lot to appreciate about this collection. I was pretty surprised to learn how deep this collection goes, and it didn’t take long for me to realize the value.

There’s a little bit of something for everyone, whether you label it for men, women, or unisex style. With a story behind every watch in the collection, it’s worth the time and effort to find which model you resonate with the most.

The Collector’s Perspective: Value Beyond the Price Tag

What I see when I look at this collection is a great mix of quality and accessibility. They may not be the cheapest watch on the market, but that isn’t what we want anyway. You can see the Omega legacy in the design, in addition to the craftsmanship Swatch is known for.

For me, I’m definitely looking at these watches from a collector’s perspective. Even I can admit I wouldn’t wear these every day, but they are a sight to behold in your collection.

Models like Mission to the Sun and Mission to Neptune stand out to me the most. However, this is primarily a stylistic point of view rather than functionality.

Your experience with these watches definitely won’t be black and white, as there’s a lot of detail to sort through. Over time, they’ve also released variants to add something special to the collection due to limited releases.

To help guide your decision-making, the sections below cover only the most important details you’ll want to consider.

12 Best MoonSwatch Designs for Your Collection

Some of this comes from my own experience, but the best MoonSwatch designs offer a level of diversity that anyone can appreciate. Keep in mind that all of these watches are highly affordable, but they boast rich style and taste that’s bound to make a statement.

When it comes to building a watch collection or becoming an enthusiast, it’s all about keeping an open mind to what’s out there. You’re likely familiar with Swatch and Omega, but their collaboration looks like something entirely unique to its own.

It isn’t that I haven’t seen similar features before, but it’s the themes, storytelling, and rarity that had me researching more and more. Although many of these watches are out of my style range, I can see how they aimed to make something for global enthusiasts.

1. Mission to the Sun (ref. SO33J100)

Donning a bright sun yellow case, this watch isn’t for the neutral or faint of heart. It’s meant to be shown off and conjoined with the perfect match or contrast of colors. The strap helps with this as it comes in white. It’s also velcro, making it very easy to get on and off.

The chronograph seconds hand is orange, as are the sundial hands and tachymeter scale. It’s definitely one of the brighter watches I have tried on, but each color choice complements the next.

Featuring a Bioceramic case, the watch feels anything but flimsy. It is a little on the bulkier side with a 42mm case, not to mention 13.25mm for thickness.

Some people like a bulkier feel on their wrist, but this can be a turn-off for skinnier individuals. Wearers are getting a quartz chronograph movement, and I feel the watch really shines when you get it in the right lighting.

Yellow isn’t necessarily my color, but I can appreciate the unique flair this watch can bring to any collection.

For those who are curious, the Mission to the Sun is available for only $270.

2. Mission to Mercury (ref. SO33A100)

If you’re like me and you prefer something more neutral, the Mission to Mercury isn’t a bad way to go. I say this due to the overall deep grey theme of the watch. Since it’s from the same collection, it comes with many of the same features. However, that doesn’t mean it isn’t unique.

There’s a lot to appreciate about simplicity in watch making, but I also feel like it shouldn’t feel dull. What makes this watch stand out is its white chronograph seconds hand, subdials, and tachymeter scale. All of which are contrasted by the black subdials and bezel.

The watch follows the same dimensions, and I find it important to note that it comes with a lug-to-lug distance of 47.3mm. Each of the watches in this collection has a sporty feel, but they don’t feel cheap or gimmicky on the wrist.

This model hits the same price tag, sitting at $270 if you’d like one for yourself.

3. Mission to Venus (ref. SO33P100)

Going back to the opposite color spectrum, the Mission to Venus is a fan favourite for anyone who likes pastel pink. I’d still like to highlight that this can easily be a unisex watch, so don’t write it off just yet based on colorway alone. Evidently, I’m assuming this model would still be more popular with the ladies.

It definitely carries a much softer aesthetic, and I’m honestly a fan of the oval subdials with diamond-esque accents on this one. With the colorway, you’re actually getting a two-toned pink and white bezel, and the pink on the hands blends in perfectly.

While there’s definitely a lot of pink going on here, it still doesn’t get in the way of the readability of the watch. Once again, you get the same dimensions, alongside biosourced glass with a faint ‘S’ etched into it.

This watch follows the same pricing structure at $270.

4. Mission on Earth (ref. SO33G100)

Since we’re going through all of the planets, that means we can’t forget about home. Mission on Earth looks pretty much how I expected, donning an Earthy green bioceramic case. What really sells me about this watch is the navy blue velcro strap, which is the perfect contrast in my opinion.

On top of that, the Earth’s soil is depicted in the brown chronograph and sundial hands. For the minute hands, markers, and subdials, you get a bright white color. Look even further, and you’ll find white-on-blue for the tachymeter scale.

While this particular model doesn’t align with most of my personal preferences, I’m impressed nonetheless. I feel it would look best on casual or sports clothing, making it more than suitable for everyday wear.

The Mission on Earth lands at the same price point of $270.

5. Mission to the Moon (ref. SO33M100)

With this particular model, you’re getting a steel grey bioceramic case. It comes with a relatively matching black velcro strap and looks rather similar to the original Omega Moonwatch.

All of the hands on this timepiece are in white, including the tachymeter scale. This is definitely a classic styling choice, and looks perfect with the dark surrounding contrast.

The bezel is black as well and includes recessed subdials that help give the watch a highly professional look. I was a bit skeptical at first, but the quartz chronograph movement is more satisfying than you might expect.

As some might be able to tell, this model was meant to resemble the original design from Omega. It isn’t a copy by any means, but if you’re familiar, then you’ll likely be able to spot the influence.

While the watch does boast a 3-bar water resistance, this isn’t really much to work with, so don’t treat it as a diver’s watch.

Same as the others previously mentioned, the Mission to the Moon goes for $270.

6. Mission to Mars (ref. SO33R100)

Shifting to another bold color, the Mission to Mars is reflective of the planet by carrying a fiery red colorway. This is contrasted by its bright white dial, velcro strap, and the unique spacecraft-shaped subdial hands.

This watch is a tribute to the Omega Speedmaster Alaska II, and you can see it in the core of its design. I’m usually a fan of the minor details, such as white and black two-toned hour and minute hands. For even more contrast, you can find a black subdial hand at the six o’clock position.

The tachymeter scale is also black and does a good job of reinforcing the outer space theme of the watch. Similar to others in this list, the dimensions, movement, and water resistance are all the same.

As you might have guessed, the price point for this watch is $270 as well.

7. Mission to Jupiter (ref. SO33C100)

Aside from their similarities, the Mission to Jupiter stood out to me due to its light beige case. This is a colorway I don’t come across too often, and I honestly liked it more than I thought I would. Thankfully, they didn’t forget the contrast here and went with a black velcro strap.

What I admire about the bezel is that it’s just a slightly different shade of dark beige. It doesn’t necessarily contrast, but I feel it does a good job of adding dimension to the case. For the chronograph, you’re getting an orange color, which was an excellent design choice in my opinion.

I’m actually not a huge fan of orange in general, but this comes off more like accents than anything else. Comparing this to its sister models, I can say the Mission to Jupiter is a little bolder than the others.

I feel this primarily comes from the color choices in contrast. While they used brighter colors for this, the contrast helps even out the tone without looking too loud on the wrist.

This watch is also available for $270 if you’d like to add it to your collection.

8. Mission to Saturn (ref. SO33T100)

With a bold brown dial surrounded by a light beige color, you get more of a professional look with the Mission to Saturn in my opinion. Just like the others, this watch comes with a velcro strap, but in a nice brown color for uniformity.

The chronograph is green, and this is what made me want one for myself. You can find the same in the sundial hands at 10 and 2 o’clock. I always believe there needs to be a bit of contrast in every watch, and all of these do a great job at it.

The Saturn features a brown bezel with a white tachymeter scale for a well-blended accent. Another important angle to highlight is the sundial in the six o’clock position, as it resembles Saturn’s rings for a planetary flair.

If you’re sold on the design of this watch, it’s only $270, so you won’t have to break the bank.

9. Mission to Earthphase (ref. SO33M700)

Adding a dose of variety to the mix, Mission to Earthphase is a leading design as it comes with many unique details to appreciate.

I love the neutral light grey color, as well as the matching crown and pushers. It’s paired with a black velcro strap for seamlessness, and the textured grey dial mimics the surface of the moon.

At two o’clock, you’ll find a moon phase disc, which features two oversized LumiNova moons for a little white glow. What impresses me most is the patented Earth phase function. This can be found at the 10 o’clock position, including oceans which glow blue under UV light.

The more details you find, the more this watch becomes a piece of art to your eyes. Although the chronograph is a second-only movement, it comes with both lunar and Earth-based complications for a unique look.

This watch is a little pricier, being retailed at $325.

10. MoonSwatch 1965 (ref. SO33M106)

Straying away from the norm here, the MoonSwatch 1965 is special for several reasons. You get a uniform gray color, and this includes the case, crown, and pushers, which are all matched by the grey velcro band.

The inspiration behind this watch is seen in the unique subdials and their numbers. For example, sundial numbers 19, 65, and 60 glow blue underneath UV light. This is a commemoration of NASA’s 1965 Speedmaster qualification.

Taking a look at the subdials at 10 and 2, I found it interesting that they’re calibrated to 19 hours and 65 minutes. On the battery cover, you’ll find an engraved moon, and you’ll always be able to tell the time thanks to the Super LumiNova. 

The price of this watch is the same as many of the others, resting at the $270 mark.

11. Mission to the Super Blue Moonphase (ref. SO33N700)

Delivering something special to the mix, I couldn’t ignore the beauty found in the Mission to the Super Blue Moonphase. This includes a blue bioceramic case, crown, and pushers as well.

They went with a matching blue velcro strap for uniformity, which was a great move as it makes the watch look rather professional.

I got excited once I got a look at the bezel due to its pulsometer scale, which is in place of the tachymeter found in the other models.

Outside of that, the moonphase complication showcases two oversized blue moons resting on a rotating disc at two o’clock. This also reveals UV-reactive details that look beautiful in the right lighting.

You’ll also find a blue moon etched into the battery cover, and this is a direct commemoration of the 2024 blue moon event. This gives the watch much more historical significance and rarity among other surrounding models.

The Super Blue Moonphase comes with a price of its own, sitting at an affordable $310.

12. Mission on Earth – Polar Lights (ref. SO33L103)

Revisiting the Mission on Earth varieties, I couldn’t finish this write-up without focusing on the Polar Lights version. This version sits alongside the Lava and Desert versions, but Polar Lights stands tall in my opinion.

This is mainly due to the beautiful turquoise bioceramic case, offering a gorgeous color that’s meant to draw eyes. Even the blue velcro strap comes with turquoise top stitching, so it doesn’t contrast too much.

The bezel is also blue, with a turquoise tachymeter scale for the right amount of balance in design. While the aurora-inspired theme is impressive, I really find myself appreciating the balance in color as light reflections truly enhance it.

Regardless of how unique this watch is, it still falls in line with surrounding models with a price point of $270.

Let’s Wrap Up

You won’t have to look very far to find a MoonSwatch that aligns with your style choices. Part of what truly sells me about this collection is the fact that I can get variety in my collection without draining the wallet.

Aside from that, the retailers you work with will be a big part of your shopping experience. Starting with a respected retailer like Exquisite Timepieces is how you end up with the exact watch you’re looking for, on top of industry expertise.

Introduction

Perhaps in the past, there was a distinct variation that set apart men’s watches from women’s watches, but nowadays, as the gender barriers have more or less been broken down, the only major difference between the two is sizing.

What I’m saying is that “women’s watches” can now simply be categorized as smaller pieces, structured to fit a woman’s wrist. Don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of designs that exude a specific feminine flair, which is chic and stylish.

However, many women also appreciate smaller variations of watches that typically fall under the male category. Unfortunately, they are not always easy to find, as smaller sizes are becoming harder and harder to stay relevant while being somewhat affordable.

That’s why I’ve compiled the most affordable feminine watches that have gathered a fair amount of iconic swagger over the years, and have maintained a consistent fan base that is more than well-deserved. 

A Wide Range…

Ranging from slim and classic, chunky and bold, flashy and glamorous, or simply for a watch that is suitable for everyday wear, I guarantee that this list can at least narrow down your search and provide plenty of insight on your next potential purchase. 

Casio Women’s Classic LA-11WL-7ACF

Casio reigns supreme in the world of simplicity and variety. This Women’s Classic is perhaps the most convenient and conventional women’s watch available today. As per usual with Casio, there’s not much to write home about.

The design is as straightforward as it gets, with a simple white casing encircling a digital screen, and a comfortable white-leather strap to fit any wrist. Key features include an alarm, a countdown timer, 1/10 second stopwatch, and an hourly time signal.

It also features an impressive amount of water resistance strategically installed to give this piece the edge in both affordability and utility, rounded out with a design that suits just about anyone. 

As you would expect from Casio, this piece is remarkably affordable, coming in at around $20. 

Invicta Pro Divers Women’s

The rose gold casing of this automatic beauty delivers a surprising tone of elegance on a watch specifically crafted to withstand any conditions.

The dark brown metal is enclosed by a highly protective Mineral Crystal, shielding it from scratches or blemishes that threaten to damage the performance, and with a 200m water resistance, you’re sure to withstand the depths of any water you find yourself in.

A very classy tone is established, and with the way the watch subtly outlines its distinguished presence, the aesthetic created feels very unique. Measuring 36mm, this watch comes rather large, but you can always downsize to the 24.5mm if you feel inclined. 

The Invicta Pro Divers Women’s costs $50. 

Seiko Core Solar SUP250

Upon looking at this piece, my mind immediately started comparing it to dozens of Cartier watches of similar designs. After all, Cartier is arguably one of the most popular watch brands among women due to their chic appeal and glamorous, jewelry-like designs.

The Seiko Core Solar has bold Roman numeral markers, a square case, and a crocodile-embossed black leather strap that perhaps takes direct inspiration from Cartier designs.

Even though this Seiko piece with its casual solar movement is much cheaper than that of a Cartier, I would argue that quality is not lost at all.

With its vintage, curvy aesthetic, this watch will appeal to many women who appreciate the finer things but don’t necessarily want to spend an arm and a leg. 

The Seiko Core Solar SUP250 costs $120. 

Victorinox Swiss Army Maverick

The small Maverick carries with it the perfect amount of robustness and reliability. A very impressive amount of detail resides on a compressed dial, giving this piece a flavorful edge you don’t normally see from watches this small.

The dark blue and black coloring blends very well, and the unidirectional bezel perhaps steals the show with its very GMT-like look. Inside is a reliable Swiss movement that fits the reserved nature of the piece, and of course, the shimmering stainless steel fires off that glamorous aesthetic.

A different taste than perhaps the majority of women-targeted wristwear, but this piece still carries a very impressive list of qualities that many women will undoubtedly be drawn to. 

The Victorinox Swiss Army Maverick costs $130. 

Nordgreen Native Gold

A slim, 28mm is all it takes to deliver one of the most chic and understated designs I’ve ever seen. The Nordgreen Native Gold sits beautifully on the wrist with an ever-so-slightly elevated tone to give it just enough detail.

The distinct feel and look are iconic, but what really works on this piece is the seamless merging of flawless performance with a pure aesthetic that leaves nothing to be desired.

The dial is bare white, with faint gold coloring to signal the hands and indices, blending perfectly with the casing of the same color. Nordgreen has managed to give us a minimalist design that somehow speaks with so much volume. To me, this watch is simply an anomaly. 

The Nordgreen Native Gold costs $159.

Michael Kors Parker Chronograph 

A white sunray dial sits glittery and triumphant, solemnly complementing the jeweled exterior of this chronograph watch.

The golden coloring will undoubtedly attract those of you who have a taste for the finer things, and it will keep you hooked with the sparkling indices that seem to generate their own light, gleaming with an elevated refinement that instills within the wearer a sense of prestigious luxury.

The dial itself is a faded white, with three little subdials that give even more detail, and a pattern that seems to become more intricate the closer you get to the center.

You can thank the quartz movement for the price, as this is a piece that is meant to be aesthetically enjoyed, delivering the same kind of experience you would expect from a big-name jewelry company. 

The Michael Kors Parker Chronograph costs $239. 

Citizen Chandler Mother of Pearl

A surprising amount of shine accompanies a beautiful mother-of-pearl dial, adding an impressive amount of feminine flair to this lady’s Citizen watch. This 26mm case is very small, but this watch carries with it an extreme amount of aesthetic power that causes it to stand out.

Another special feature is the eco-drive movement that allows this piece to be charged with any light source, leading to a more convenient way of powering the system and less frustration in the long run.

Eliminating the need to replenish batteries is always a plus in the world of energy power watches, and combined with the jaw-dropping aesthetic, this piece is simply a powerhouse. 

The Citizen Chandler Mother of Pearl costs $243. 

Triwa Hu34L Grey

Constructed from illegal firearms, the Hu34L Grey attempts to preach out against the issues of gun violence, giving us a piece that is both splendid to look at, but also makes us take a step back and evaluate ourselves.

The Humanium Metal that this piece is made of looks absolutely divine, as its glossy details provide a smooth feel to the dynamic design, with a black-leather strap that effortlessly blends both elemental colors, creating something truly special.

The hands and markers are straightforward, and the steel case outlines the darker colors, but obviously, the main attraction of the show is going to be the powerful message that it is associated with. 

The Triwa Hu34L Grey costs $245.

Bulova Classic Bangle

This shimmering beauty is part of an elite lineup of Bulova masterpieces, each specially crafted with its own unique features to display a monumental level of skill.

This particular Classic Bangle is a stainless steel variant that comes with a silver and gold coloring and a mother-of-pearl dial that plays with the lighting in a transfixing manner.

Simply put, this piece looks like it should be competing with some of the most widely recognized names of all time that are far above the price range.

The mother-of-pearl exterior is one thing, but the jeweled indices make this by far the most luxurious-looking piece on the list today.  

The Bulova Classic Bangle costs $262. 

Tissot Lovely Square

With a name as well-recognized as Tissot, it was pretty much a guarantee that they were going to make the list in some form or fashion.

This uniquely shaped watch strips a simple quartz-powered piece down to an even more straightforward tone, embodying a sense of fresh design to pair with the vintage appeal that every Tissot has.

The dial is an elegant blue with straight hands and indices, pairing well with the stainless steel exterior and the elegantly chained link that perhaps ties the whole look together.

This watch pays homage to the small women’s watches of the 1960s, measuring only 20mm in diameter, which, if you’re a small-wristed lady, may be your best option. 

The Tissot Lovely Square costs $350. 

Mondaine Classic 30mm

A Swiss design through and through, the Mondaine Classic reinterprets a timeless design with subtle modern elements that give it an appealing flair.

The stainless steel case is rather bright, providing a complementary aesthetic to the white bezel, whose surface is smoothly polished, allowing for subtle light features to dance across its bare landscape.

The stark black contrast of the hands and indices serves to interrupt an otherwise repetitive look, as their blocky exterior fits surprisingly well on a refined piece such as this.

Other than that, the design is rather straightforward, focusing on a simplistic design that brings out the most of the barebones characteristics. Its unusual attraction will appeal to many, and with a healthy size of 30mm, this will be an extremely accessible piece. 

The Mondaine Classic 30mm costs $375. 

Bulova Crystal 96L311

Exquisitely polished, flawlessly refined, and splendidly jeweled, this Bulova Crystal combines just enough high-performing luxury with a sporty aesthetic to make it appealing to watch-lovers across the board.

The opalescent mother-of-pearl dial has silver-tone hands that give off a luminescent glow, almost filling the piece with a sense of mystical appeal, and the polished silver-tone Roman numerals definitely help the overall blend of sporty luxury.

The stainless steel casing is highlighted by jeweled spaces along the bracelet, chopping up the smooth aesthetic, and blending seamlessly with the same jewels encircling the bezel.

This piece is simply gorgeous, and it occupies a very unique position, tapping into two distinct sides of the watch spectrum to appeal to as many enthusiasts as possible. 

The Bulova Crystal 96L311 costs $375. 

Orient Classic Open Heart

Armed with an extremely classy sense of elegance with quite the pristine nature, the Orient Open Heart has always been a very popular contender for the ladies’ attention.

The round stainless steel envelope and bracelet are coated in silver and rose gold colors, giving them a vintage appeal that breathes an established sense of luxury.

The dial is a smooth white, with rose-gold colored hands and indices that appear very sharp and dramatic, richly layering the palette with a crisp amount of detail.

Of course, centered to the left is the beautiful open heart feature that allows us a peek at the 22-stone F6 automatic movement, ticking away with the same elegant nature plastered on the outside.

The Orient Classic Open Heart costs $395. 

Movado Bold Evolution 2.0

The Bold Evolution 2.0 (as its name suggests) is characterized by the bold coloring presented on the entire piece. From the strap to the dial, a bright peach shines, stealing the show and instilling a glamorous sense of refinement.

Aside from that, the glimmering stainless steel provides a slight layer of distinguished detail that mixes up the palette and adds to a very aesthetically pleasing display.

The 34mm measurement is the perfect size, and with the very symmetrical, well-rounded exterior that only does what it feels comfortable doing, I think this piece will impress a lot of people. 

The Movado Bold Evolution 2.0 costs $450.

Tissot Le Locle Women’s Watch 

This piece belongs to a hugely popular family of automatic watches that have been at the forefront of Tissot’s legacy. This elegant timepiece carries a distinct amount of prestigious details, including diamond indexes and fine Roman numerals.

The traditional Le Locle signature on the front of the dial catches the eye as well, following the same kind of design characteristics you would expect to see from high-end Swiss-made pieces.

With a 25mm stainless steel case, this watch comes neatly packaged and elegantly compact, not attempting to venture too far outside of what makes Tissot such a legendary brand.

I think that this watch is a perfect mixture of class and style that appeals to those with flashier tastes, while also playing a reserved hand, not trying to be too dramatic, but rather, communicates the right message that those who listen to it will understand. 

The Tissot Le Locle Women’s Watch costs $750. 

Versace Dominus Lady Watch

Versace enters this list with quite a flavorful piece. The Dominus ladies’ watch is a square-dialed, gold-colored, distinctly crafted chronograph that you will either fall in love with or deem not for you.

There’s no reason to feel shame one way or another, as this piece unapologetically caters to those who prefer the more glamorous things.

Of course, with the Versace name attached to it, it would be expected that this piece adheres to the elevated reputation this brand has crafted, and, fortunately, the Dominus does not shy away from that.

With a distinguished gold exterior and uniquely patterned dial, this watch wraps itself in a bold package that, regardless of how you feel, you can’t help but respect. 

The Versace Dominus Lady Watch costs $870.

Balmania Diamond Chronograph

Oh boy, there’s a lot to unpack on this piece. Between the three subdials, the gold coloring, the diamond-jeweled indices, and the mother-of-pearl dial, this piece offers some of the finest aesthetics in women’s watches.

With a Swiss quartz movement, perhaps being the only straightforward feature, I can imagine this watch catching the eye of any lady who appreciates a well-made piece that makes her feel all the more glamorous.

While there is so much detail crammed into the 37mm of stainless steel casing, it also does a fantastic job of slyly playing its hand, so as not to overwhelm its wearer with the tremendous amount of features.

The watch seems to be very aware, which is always appreciated when dealing with something as hard-hitting and spectacular as this. 

The Balmania Diamond Chronograph costs $1,000.

Mido Multifort TV 35 Automatic

The rectangular curviness of the Mido Multifort is another piece that some will be drawn to, and some will choose to pass on. I, for one, love the unique shape, and I think that it’s all the more enlightened by the soft, bright colors that do wonders for the aesthetic.

The sky blue dial is beautiful, making the few jeweled indices that the watch has stand out all the more. At first, it might not seem like this piece has that much detail, but I always admire the pieces that require you to study the features in order to really understand all that it’s trying to accomplish.

For example, the dial is actually made of mother-of-pearl, which may not be obvious at first glance. Overall, for a 34mm watch, this piece packs an aesthetic punch, with a fair amount of artistic brilliance sprinkled here and there. 

The Mid Multifort TV 35 Automatic costs $1,014. 

Frederique Constant Classic Moneta Moonphase 

This beautiful Moonphase piece comes alive on the wrist, bursting with a unique layer of luxury that Frederique Constant has consistently embodied.

The two subdials provide an engaging sense of symmetry that rounds out the entire design, and of course, the Moonphase dial itself steals the show with its artistic brilliance.

The peaceful white of the dial blends well with the hands and indices, which are both very thin so as not to distract from the main features. The women’s size comes in 37mm, a slightly larger size than needed, perhaps, but I think everything on the watch itself fills in the size nicely. 

The Frederique Constant Classic Moneta Moonphase costs $1,295. 

Fossil 36mm Suitor Watch

Slim, thin, and curvy, Fossil is known for its elegant taste that instills a taste of prestigious refinement within every piece. The paper-thin chain link on the Fossil 36mm Suitor watch causes the piece to appear even thinner than it already is, and the wide variety of colors makes it suitable for all kinds of wear.

My personal favorite variant is the all black exterior that makes the watch look like a beautiful spectacle of the night. The chrome causes the light to elegantly dance across the surface, providing a surprising amount of depth to the entire design. 

The Fossil 36mm Suitor Watch costs $1,350.

Conclusion

The women’s watch market is vast and deep, with many pieces not getting near enough recognition due to the fierce competition with big-name brands.

But if you look hard enough, there are a surprising number of masterpieces just waiting to be uncovered, many of them much cheaper than you would expect.

This list only scratches the surface, as there are plenty of finely-constructed pieces that perfectly capture the chic appeal that so many women look for in their wristwear.

In any case, I hope that this list helped you to at least narrow down your search so that you have a deeper understanding of the price pool, and perhaps it’s opened your eyes to new designs that you never knew existed.

The watch industry is much larger than you might expect; all it takes is a little initiative to travel down unexplored paths, and I can guarantee you will find what you’re looking for.