32 Best Dress Watches From Affordable to Luxury
Dress watches could be considered to be one of the purest forms of watchmaking. Their elegant designs, sophisticated looks, and technology come from a long line of industry pioneers and centuries worth of innovation and tradition. Today, however, the dress watch category is a lot larger than one might think. We are seeing more and more unique interpretations of the the styles, as well numerous reinterpretations and reimaginations. Our guide of the 32 best dress watches has pieces from every end of the spectrum, including from high-end and affordable brands. We tried to explore different styles and materials, so hopefully there will be a dress watch perfect for you. Let’s dive straight into our first watch.
Rolex Perpetual 1908
Price: $22,000 USD; Case: 39mm; Water Resistance: 50m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
We’re starting off our guide with the brand new Rolex Perpetual 1908, a timepiece that combines the golden era of horology with modern technology. This exquisite classically designed watch exemplifies the timeless elegance and craftsmanship that Rolex is renowned for. Its case, which comes in either yellow or white gold, measures a modest 39mm, the perfect compromise between modern and vintage sizes. The dial comes in either white or matte black, giving collectors the option to choose a modern or more vintage look, depending on what they are looking for. This dress watch exudes an understated sophistication, which is almost certainly what it was designed to do. The Rolex Perpetual 1908 retails for $22,000 USD.
Orient Bambino
Price: $270 USD (Originally $410 USD); Case: Stainless Steel, 38mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Mineral.
The Orient Bambino is a true gem in the realm of affordable dress watches. Its sleek and slender profile effortlessly captures an understated sophistication, exactly what a dress watch should evoke. The white dial is crisp and sharp, whilst maintaining a level of finishing rarely found at this price point. The vintage charm of this model is complemented by an extremely capable and reliable movement. If the white dial version doesn’t suit your taste, then the Bambino also comes in a variety of different colors. You can purchase this watch for a discounted $270 USD.
Timex Marlin
Price: $180 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 34mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Manual Wind; Crystal: Mineral.
The Timex Marlin 34mm Hand Wind 1960s Reissue is a trip back in time for many watch collectors and enthusiasts. This very accessible timepiece pays homage to the iconic watches that came before it. It captures the spirit of the widely distributed vintage pieces, without compromising on value for money. Its 34 mm size harkens back to the smaller, classic proportions of the era. The hand-wound mechanical movement also adds a little extra vintage feel. This Reissue of the Marlin 34mm exudes an undeniable charm that has really resonated with watch enthusiasts. It can be purchased online for around $180 USD.
Omega De Ville Tresor
Price: $14,100 USD; Case: 18k Sedna Gold, 40mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Omega Trésor De Ville is a simple yet handsome timepiece that we really like if you’re looking to dress up. This watch really showcases the fact that, beyond tool watches and chronographs, Omega produces an extremely capable dress watch. Powered by the exceptionally accurate and reliable Co-Axial Movement, which boasts the Master Chronometer certification from COSC, the Trésor De Ville guarantees precise timekeeping, whilst remaining timelessly elegant and sophisticated - which is what you’d expect from a luxury dress watch. TThe Omega Trésor De Ville retails for $14,100 USD.
Patek Philippe Calatrava 6119R
Price: $31,940 USD; Case: Rose Gold, 39mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
When you think of dress watches, you probably think of Patek Philippe. And the Patek Philippe Calatrava 6119R is probably the most well-known dress watch from the brand. The 39mm rose gold case, with its signature Calatrava-inspired design, has a timeless appeal. The finishing on this watch really exemplifies Patek Philippe's attention to detail and is a powerful reminder of why they are highly prized market leaders. Powered by a self-winding movement, the Calatrava 6119R is accurate and reliable. When available, the 6119R retails for $31,940 USD.
Oris Artelier Date
Price: $1,850 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 40mm; Water Resistance: 50m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
If a contemporary yet classic dress watch is on your radar, The Oris Artelier Date is a great option. The modern design of of the watch has really pushed the envelope on what a dress watch can look like. Additionally, the pattered blue dial adds some interesting visual points that can sometimes be lacking on dress watches. The Artelier Date comes with many different dial and bracelet option, giving you the opportunity to make it your ideal piece. It can be purchased for a fair $1,850 USD.
A. Lange & Sohne Saxonia Thin
Price: $29,000 USD; Case: White Gold, 39mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Manual Wind; Crystal: Sapphire.
Watch collectors know that A. Lange & Sohne watches are some of the most expertly crafted timepieces available. And the Saxonia Thin, featuring a beautiful Aventurine dial, is probably our favorite dress watch from the brand. The watch is not only beautiful, but is ultra-exclusive, available only in certain boutiques for certain customers. Powered by an in-house hand-wound movement, the Saxonia Thin 205.086 offers exceptional accuracy and a remarkable 72-hour power reserve. The Aventurine dial draws your without being too flashy. The perfect balance for a luxury dress watch. If you want to purchase this model, the retail price is $29,000 USD.
Frederique Constant Classics
Price: $995 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 40mm; Water Resistance: 50m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Frederique Constant Classics Automatic is a nice combination of affordability and class in the dress watch category. Further, being affordable isn’t the only benefit to the Frederique Constant Classics, the watches are Swiss Made and high quality. The design has a clear classic look, without looking dated. Powered by a reliable Swiss Made automatic movement, this watch is a is great option for watch collectors seeking to balance style and quality, with affordability. The Frédérique Constant Automatic comes in several different configurations, starting at $995 USD.
IWC Portofino Automatic 37
Price: $6,250 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 37mm; Water Resistance: 50m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
IWC is best known for their high-end pilot’s watches. However, the Portofino 37 is a well-designed and unique dress watch. Understated elegance is the key theme here. The 37mm case size is surely smaller than most IWC models, but works well on the Portofino. The grey sunburst dial is paired with traditional stick hour markers. The indices also have diamonds at every hour, adding a little sophistication. The IWC Portofino Automatic 37 retails for $6,250 USD.
Cartier Ronde Must
Price: $4,150 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 40mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Cartier Ronde Must might be Cartier’s most traditional design, yet it doesn’t eschew Cartier’s design language. Like many other Cartier models, the white dial has Roman numeral indices with an interior minutes track. While the watch is clearly understated, the blue hands and sapphire crown top, signatures of Cartier, added a little pop of color. If you’re looking for a Cartier that you won’t see on everyone else, the Ronde Must is for you. The Ronde Must de Cartier can be purchased for $4,150 USD.
Cartier Tank Must Extra Large
Price: $4,450 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 31x41mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The second Cartier on our list might be the most iconic Cartier in existence. The Cartier Tank Must is a timepiece that transcends trends. This watch embodies the legendary Tank design, named because of its resemblance to early WW1 tanks. The rectangular case offers something unique in the dress watch category. The Cartier Tank Must Extra Large retails for $4,450 USD.
Grand Seiko SBGA293
Price: $5,200 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 39mm; Water Resistance: 200m; Movement: Spring Drive Quartz; Crystal: Sapphire.
Superb precision and craftsmanship are synonymous with Grand Seiko, and the SBGA293G is no exception. This watch is a shining example of the renowned Japanese brand’s watchmaking prowess. This dress watch has two remarkable characteristics: firstly, the Spring Drive movement which combines the accuracy of a quartz movement with the beauty of mechanical watches, and secondly its unrivaled water resistance in this category of watches, of 200m. The watch comes in several color and strap configurations, giving you plenty of choice. The SBGA293G is a reliable companion for both formal occasions and outdoor adventures. Price for the SBGA293A is $5,200 USD.
Seiko Presage Cocktail Time SRPB46
Price: $495 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 40.5mm; Water Resistance: 50m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Hardlex.
The Seiko Presage Cocktail Time Ref. SRPB46J1 is one of our favorite affordable dress watches. The sunray dial is unique with and alternating dark and light pattern emanating from the center. The combination of the brown dial and rose gold case gives make the watch more wearable with a suit rather than a tuxedo. But we still consider it a great dress watch option. The Cocktail Time retails for $495 USD but is available on Amazon for $330 USD.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin
Price: $20,600 USD; Case: 18k Pink Gold, 39mm; Water Resistance: 50m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
While the Reverso may be Jaeger-LeCoultre’s most iconic watch, the brand’s expertise does not stop there. The Master Ultra Thin comes from their high-horology dress watch line, which often feature jaw-dropping complications such as moonphases. This model we featured, however, is special not because of its complications (it has none), but because of its ultra-thin case. The 7.8mm thick pink gold case makes the Master Ultra Thin one of the thinnest dress watches available on the market. The Ultra-Thin retails for $20,600 USD.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Classic Monoface
Price: $7,000 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 35.7x 21mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Quartz; Crystal: Sapphire.
Along with the Cartier Tank, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso is the most iconic rectangular watch on the market. And the Reverso Classic Monoface is as true to the original Reverso as you will see. The watch was designed for polo players as the face can be flipped over to protect the watch face and crystal from being damaged during play. This watch’s art deco style really brings back the feel of the roaring twenties, and its style remains elegant and in style. The Reverso Classic Monoface retails for $7,000 USD.
Hamilton American Classic Spirit of Liberty Automatic
Price: $995 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 42mm; Water Resistance: 50m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Hamilton Spirit of Liberty Auto is another timepiece that balances accessibility and high-quality. The design is classy, but with a tinge of ruggedness that mimics the sharp lines and contrasts of industrial design in the railway aesthetic of the older times. The movement powering the is very reliable and boasts an 80-hour reserve. With its comfortable leather strap and water resistance, this Hamilton timepiece is a versatile companion for both urban explorations and formal occasions. This Hamilton retails for $995 USD.
Tissot Le locle Powermatic 80
Price: $595 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 39mm; Water Resistance: ;30m Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Tissot Le Locle Powermatic 80 is a seemless blend of tradition and innovation. This watch pays homage to the Swiss watchmaking heritage, showcasing Tissot's commitment to precision and craftsmanship. Named after the famous watchmaking town of Le Locle in the Vaud Canton of Switzerland, it captures the heritage of the brand quite well. the Le Locle is powered by Tissot’s new in-house Powermatic 80 movement seen in the PRX, which ensures exceptional accuracy and reliability. With its combination of classic design elements and modern technology, this Tissot dress watch is a true vision for an affordable dress watch. It is available for a discounted 429 USD (on steel bracelet) on Amazon.
Longines Master Collection
Price: $2,150 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 38.5mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Longines Master Collection dress watch is a piece of horological excellence that has been reasonably priced throughout its rich history. It balances sophistication and craftsmanship with modernity, innovation, and accessibility. The dial features a beautifully simple guilloché pattern, that gives the white dial a nice texture. This shows the expertise and attention to detail that Longines puts into each of their watches. The watch comes in several different colorways, such as white, blue, or black. With its blend of versatility and Swiss quality, this watch is a true testament to Longines' expertise in watchmaking, making it a solid option for watch enthusiasts seeking both style and substance at an accessible price point. It retails for $2,150 USD.
H. Moser & Cie Endeavour Centre Seconds
Price: 22,000 CHF; Case: White Gold, 40mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
Heinrich Moser produced pocket watches for the Russian Aristocracy and Tsars until relocating to Switzerland in 1848, where he began to develop wristwatches in the 20th century. The Endeavour Centre Seconds with the Blue Fumé dial is a nod to the long history the brand has had making watches. The visual aesthetic of the piece is an echo of the ‘less is more’ doctrine. The Pioneer Center Seconds is a sleek and discreet piece reflective of its heritage, whilst embracing modern design cues. There was only 100 pieces of this limited-edition series and it can be retailed for 22,000 CHF.
F.P. Journe Chronometre Souverain Calibre 1304
Price: $55,000 USD; Case: Platinum, 40mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Manual Wind; Crystal: Sapphire.
The FP Journe Chronomètre Souverain Calibre 1304 is the high-horologist’s prize winning design that has resonated throughout it the industry. Since it won the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève in 2005, the watch has barely changed aesthetically, and still boasts an impressive accuracy and precision that has been developed and improved over the last 20 years. The focus on luxury is brought home with the choice of materials used on all the components of the watch. The movement is made of gold, the dial is white gold, and the case is pure platinum - A true nod to luxury materials. This dress watch, inspired by marine chronometers, comes in several different color schemes which complement the materials perfectly. The Chronometre Souverain is extremely exclusive, and if found it would sell for over $55,000 USD.
anOrdain Model 1 Green Fume
Price: $3,200 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 38mm; Water Resistance: 50m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
Born out of Glasgow, Anordain combines Scottish craftsmanship with some serious Swiss prowess - Being hand assembled is one their unique features. The Model 1 Fumé is at the centre of their small, but very competent range of watches. This microbrand prides itself with attention to detail spanning from their enamel dials, which are hand painted, to their hand-assembly. The dial numeral fonts have been borrowed from the old Highland maps, highlighting their Scotts heritage. Anordain offers a few options for customization such as engraving or movement tuning. The Model 1 starts at $3,200 USD.
Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Automatic
Price: $35,800 USD; Case: White Gold, 41mm; Water Resistance: 20mm; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
If you are looking for an ultra-thin watch that showcases high precision watchmaking, look no further than the Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Automatic Ref. G0A45123. At 4.3mm thick, the Altiplano Ultimate is one of the 10 thinnest watches in the world. The watch eschews traditional dress watch elements to showcase a skeletonized movement. This is necessary because the dial and movement blend into one due to necessity, as the watch is so thin. While the watch is 4.3mm thick, the case size is 41mm, making it very wearable. You can pick up the Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Automatic for $35,800 USD .
Vacheron Constantin Patrimony
Price: $27,000 USD; Case: Rose Gold, 36mm; Water Resistance: 30mm; Movement: Manual Wind; Crystal: Sapphire.
Vacheron Constantin is known for their elegant and modern designs, while staying discreet and subtle. Their pieces tend to get their most intricate details from the smaller features. The Patrimony line is no different to this. Visually, at a first glance, the watch seems very simple. This minimalistic aesthetic obscures the gems of this design’s dial quite literally. There are 62 hand cut diamonds that line the minute track, creating an understated, but impressive effect. There are several dial, case, and strap options giving the wearer plenty of customization, a rare feature on high-end pieces. The Vacheron Constantin Patrimony retails for $27,000 USD .
Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921
Price: $48,500 USD; Case: Pink Gold, 40mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Manual Wind; Crystal: Sapphire.
The American 1921 is one of Vacheron’s most unique designs. The cushion shaped case is relatively standard, however the offset art deco dial and crown at one o’clock are the main features of this piece. The offset dial was designed so that the time could be displayed without having to rotate ones wrist, a novel feature especially during the early days of wristwatches for men. Originally drawn up in the roaring twenties, specifically for the US markets, the subtle details of this dress watch are what give it its flair. The manually wind movement also boasts an impressive 72 hour power reserve. The Vacheron-Constantin American 1921 retails for $48,500 USD.
Rado Coupole Classic Automatic
Price: $1,200 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 41mm; Water Resistance: 50m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
Rado as a brand are best know for their incredibly good value and high-quality durable watches. Their take on the classic dress watch is no different to their philosophy. The Coupole Classic Automatic is a competent and classy piece that is capable of adapting to any formal occasion, as any decent dress watch. Rado have equipped this watch with one of their in-house movements that winds up to 80 hours of reserve power. The watch comes on either a steel bracelet or leather strap, meaning that the piece is very versatile, a great characteristic for a dress watch. The Rado Coupole Classic Automatic retails for $1,200 USD.
Bulova Frank Sinatra Summer Wind
Price: $850 USD; Case: Rose Gold Tone Stainless Steel, 40mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
Who better to look to for a stylish dress watch than Ol’ Blue Eyes. Well, the Bulova Frank Sinatra Summer Wind may not have actually been worn by Frank Sinatra, but the watch pays homage to the legendary singer. The rose gold tone case, vintage style lugs and grey dial combine to make a vintage style watch that has some modern touches. We also like the pop of color with the orange second hand. Finally, instead of the Bulova logo, the watch has a fedora, like the one Sinatra wore, at 12 o’clock. A nice touch. The Bulova Frank Sinatra Summer Wind retails for $850 USD .
Vacheron Constantin Patrimony
Price: $27,000 USD; Case: Rose Gold, 36mm; Water Resistance: 30mm; Movement: Manual Wind; Crystal: Sapphire.
Vacheron Constantin is known for their elegant and modern designs, while staying discreet and subtle. Their pieces tend to get their most intricate details from the smaller features. The Patrimony line is no different to this. Visually, at a first glance, the watch seems very simple. This minimalistic aesthetic obscures the gems of this design’s dial quite literally. There are 62 hand cut diamonds that line the minute track, creating an understated, but impressive effect. There are several dial, case, and strap options giving the wearer plenty of customization, a rare feature on high-end pieces. The Vacheron Constantin Patrimony retails for $27,000 USD .
Carl F. Bucherer Manero Autodate
Price: $3,100 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 38mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Manero Autodate from Carl F. Bucherer is another great example of minimalistic high-end watches that have drawn from a rich heritage of design. The piece is a very elegant dress watch, that seamlessly integrates several design features into its package, especially with a symmetrically balanced dial, creating a beautiful harmony. This model comes in several different sizes, materials, and colors, with each configuration creating a unique combination without straying far from the original feel of the design. Unlike many of the watches from this brand, this watch is not a limited production run and can be purchased from Bucherer/Tourneau for $3,100 USD.
Zenith Elite Moonphase
Price: $7,000 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 40mm; Water Resistance: 50m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
Zenith is best known for their sporty and dynamic chronographs with integrated bracelets, with their dressier pieces often, but unjustly, overlooked. The Elite Moonphase is a much more modern take on the dress watch. It incorporates classic features such as the cross-hairs small seconds dial at the nine o’clock position and a Moonphase dial at the six o’clock position. These vintage elements are complemented by the modern textured pattern on the dial and the sharp l, but clean lines of the case. It also boasts an ultra-thin case construction meaning that it slides well under the cuff. The Zenith Elite Moonphase can be purchased at retail for $7,000 USD.
Zodiac Olympos
Price: $895 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 37mm; Water Resistance: 50m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
Zodiac tends to be another brand better known for their more dynamic designs, who also produce overlooked and understated designs. However, they offer these at a fraction of a price of their more popular pieces. The Olympos Automatic is priced very accessibly for the value and quality it offers. The design is very contemporary, with bold dial colors and hand combinations, as well as a highly polished sunburst dial. The most striking design is really the unique case shape, which can only be described as manta-shaped. The asymmetrical form makes the watch a very interesting wear, destined to start a conversation with any new, or seasoned watch collector. It retails for $895 USD.
Laurent Ferrier Classic Traveller Magnetic Green
Price: 62,000 CHF ($69,000 USD); Case: Grade 5 Titanium, 41mm; Water Resistance: 50m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Laurent Ferrier Classic Traveller is one of the more unique watches on this list for several reasons. Firstly, it is one of a handful of watches that has a micro-rotor winding mechanism. Secondly, it is the only one that tracks two separate time zones, a rarity for dress watches. Third, it is made out of Grade 5 Titanium and 18k White gold, which is a novel and completely unique combination of materials not often seen, well, ever - Let alone in a dress watch. The sapphire case back displays the beautiful finishing and engraving on the movement, which sports a 72 hour power reserve. Part of a very limited series of pieces, the Classic Traveller Magnetic Green is sadly no longer available, but it retailed for $69,000 USD.
Chopard L.U.C 1860
Price: $23,200 USD; Case: Lucent Steel, 36.5mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
Chopard are a brand who have become renowned for their subtle designs, born in the heart of the Swiss alps and span across both sport and dress watches alike. This dress watch from the brand is no different. This piece takes tradition very seriously. The dial is open, uncluttered, and light, as well as beautifully finished with some meticulous machining, which makes for a very beautiful movement. Its visuals are matched by its technical capabilities- The beautiful L.U.C movement has a micro-rotor and a double barrel that helps it keep a 65-hour power reserve - Quite a feat for a dress watch. This brilliant dress watch from Chopard can be purchased for $23,200 USD.
Breguet Classique Quantieme Perpetuel 7327
Price: $80,200 USD; Case: 18k Gold, 39mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Bréguet Classique Quantième Perpétuel 7327 is a fantastic piece to finish this guide. This dress watch does it all. It incorporates an automatic perpetual calendar that accurately tracks days, date, months, leap years, and the moonphase (as well as obviously, displaying the time). The overlap between all these functions on the dial seems chaotic at first, but after a little bit of study, becomes balanced and legible. Subtle elements such as the blued hands are a reminder of the heritage of a brand like Bréguet. If you wanted to purchase this masterpiece of high-horology, it would cost $80,200 USD at retail.
