Best watches and watch brands for men to buy in 2024
Whether you’re after a tech-savvy smartwatch or something more traditional, we’ve rounded up some great men’s watches for all budgets and styles.
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The fact we are perpetually glued to our screens raises an interesting question about the need for a watch.
Back when our phones weren't smarter than NASA computers, a watch was a must-have to stay on schedule. But now, every gadget tells time.
Still, watches are hanging in there, and it's not hard to see why. They're not just practical, they hold sentimental value and often mark important moments in life.
When thinking about what timepiece to buy, GQ Australia watch expert Will Lennox told news.com.au checkout it’s always good to consider how much you’d like to pay.
“I think when buying a watch, particularly your first watch, it’s important to go in with a clear budget in mind,” he said.
“Just because we’re seeing the biggest celebrities dropping several months rent on one watch, it’s not an indication to send yourself broke trying to emulate that.
“For many of the most classic silhouettes in the watch world, there’s plenty of models at reasonable prices to keep in mind. Square shaped watches, chronographs, it’s all out there, just do your research and don’t break the bank over a watch, trust me, it’s not worth it.”
So where to start? Well, Tissot’s Chrono XL Classic and the Ted Baker Fulmaar Mens Watch are some great options if you’re looking for a mid-priced watch that’s stylish and can pair well with your wardrobe.
The Timex Expedition North Tide Temp Compass Men’s Watch not only looks beautiful but has been designed for intrepid travellers and outdoor adventurers, while the Amazfit GTR 4 Smart Watch has more than 150 individual fitness programs to get you moving.
Meanwhile, if you’re looking for something at the higher end of the market, you could also consider Guess Rebel, $184.95 (down from $549.95) at THE ICONIC, which is a great price for a designer watch.
With these factors in mind, our team has rounded up some of the best watches out there so you don’t have to.
OUR TOP PICKS
EDITOR’S PICK: BEST OVERALL MENS WATCH
Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 Watch in Ice Blue, from $1150 at Myer
What You Need To Know
A throwback 1970s design, the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 is an ideal watch for those with an eye for style and ingenuity.
With an integrated case and bracelet, the Tissot PRX Automatic is powered by the Powermatic 80 movement, has a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating, a light blue dial, and a stainless-steel bracelet, which is a winner among customers.
We love this watch for its understated elegance, and we reckon it will be a winner for you too. It would seem this is also a crowd fave among Aussie customers online, who are fans on the design and functionality.
“I loved the colour and the shine of the watch. Tissot never fails in providing the quality for the product,” said one buyer from Melbourne.
Another said: “I love my new Tissot watch. It is elegant and easy to operate.”
BEST QUARTZ WATCHES FOR MEN
Ted Baker Men's Haarvin Military Green Watch, $290 at THE ICONIC
Ted Baker Men's Haarvin Military Green Watch
What You Need To Know
If you're after a piece that will shine in its own right as a signature item, Ted Baker's Haarvin Military Green Watch could be a great option for you.
The British brand is always known for its style and nice little touches, and this timepiece is no different, with a bold green motif that extends across the leather band, the watch face, and the hands.
At 44 millimetres, the case diameter is also not overpowering, making this a versatile watch you can wear across many settings.
Tried and Tested by Troy Nankervis, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
Christmas is around the corner and a watch is a perfect gift idea for someone special in your life, or you could also treat yourself too.
This Ted Baker Haarvin Chronograph Green Leather Watch is the latest in the collection, and blends together modern design motifs, with a nod to the past.
Watches give you a chance to show off some personal style, and I love the all-green look, which includes a green leather strap, and it's stainless steel casing is also 50 metres water resistant, making it suitable for a dip in the ocean, or a hike outdoors.
This one is also a great option if you're going for a more formal look too. I'm really looking forward to wearing this watch as the weather warms up and I'm out and about.
Tissot Chrono XL Classic, $660 at THE ICONIC
Tissot Chrono XL Classic Men's Watch
What You Need To Know
The Chrono XL Classic watch from luxury Swiss watchmaker Tissot boasts a rugged stainless steel construction and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal face.
Made in Switzerland, it has one of the largest chronographs (45mm) in the Tissot collection, and features a classic, elegant design.
It’s a great choice for those wanting a timepiece that’s both sporty and trendy, and customers are saying it’s stylish, classy and makes for a perfect gift.
“It looks stylish, and stands out from other watches,” said one customer.
“I really enjoy wearing it everywhere. I get lots of comments regarding it.”
Nixon Spectra Automatic Watch, $559.99 at THE ICONIC
Nixon Spectra Automatic Watch
What You Need To Know
The Nixon Spectra Automatic Watch sits very well between defying tradition and paying homage to the classic art of watchmaking.
Its twenty-one jewel automatic movement is fully displayed through the spectacular transparent skeleton face, punctuated by striking indices and the Nixon wordmark that appears to float above it all.
Customers online say it’s a “beautiful” watch that looks and feels great.
“It is my third Nixon for the collection and the pictures don't do it justice. I have the blue one. It really pops without it being too much. If the case was any larger I think it would take away from its beauty,” said one buyer.
Another said: “Gorgeous watch. I bought the matte black watch for my boyfriend for Christmas and had to get him another one for his birthday! Love them all!”
BEST SMART WATCHES FOR MEN
Apple Watch Series 9
What You Need To Know
If you’re searching for an essential companion for a healthy life, the Apple Watch Series 9 could be worth your attention. Advanced health, safety, and activity features provide powerful insights and help when you need it. And redesigned apps in watchOS give you more information at a glance.
The Workout app gives you a range of ways to train plus advanced metrics for more insights about your workout performance, while the Fall Detection and Crash Detection can connect you with emergency services in the event of a hard fall or a severe car crash, and Emergency SOS lets you call for help with the press of a button.
Meanwhile, the S9 chip enables a super bright display and a new way to quickly and easily interact with your Apple Watch without touching the screen.
Unsurprisingly, this is a very popular model for customers, who love to pair the Apple Watch Series 9 with their Apple IPhone.
“Another great Watch by Apple, extremely easy to set up and pair with your IPhone. Saves me from having to carry my phone around everywhere. Light, comfortable and good battery life. Lot's of different options in the settings menu including a variety of colours to choose from. Great Holiday gift for a special someone,” wrote one Amazon Australia customer.
Another said: “Fantastic watch, it works very well and is comfortable to wear. I can recommend it to anyone, it’s well worth the money.”
Amazfit GTR 4 Smart Watch, $299 at Amazon Australia
Amazfit GTR 4 Smart Watch
What You Need To Know
The Amazfit GTR 4 is the industry's first smartwatch with anti-glare technology on the glass bezel cover, and the large 1.43" AMOLED display has an anti-fingerprint coating to keep your watch looking pristine.
The combination of a one-piece aluminium alloy medium frame and classic stainless steel navigation crown makes the watch an elegant fusion of vintage and elegance.
The watch also comes with a huge selection of over 150 sports modes, including Strength Training, Golf Swing, and can be used to track your swimming data and endure the equivalent of up to 50 metres of water pressure.
Hundreds of customers have given the Amazfit GTR 4 a five star rating for its features and value for money.
“Love the watch. It has numerous capabilities to assist with maintaining a healthy lifestyle including admonishing for not,” said one buyer.
Another added: “The battery life on this Amazfit watch is by far the best I've seen on any smart watch. You really have to use it a lot for it to go down much. It also charges very rapidly.”
BEST SPORTS WATCHES FOR MEN
Garmin Venu 3 Watch, $749 at THE ICONIC
Garmin Venu 3 Watch
What You Need To Know
Purpose-built with advanced health and fitness features and the ability to make calls and send texts, the Garmin Venu 3 is both a fitness smartwatch and personal on-wrist coach, there to support your every goal.
There’s more than 30 preloaded GPS and indoor sports apps to keep you moving, and the watch also tracks your energy levels throughout the day, so you'll always know when your body is charged up and ready for activity, or drained and needing to recharge with restful sleep.
Customers love the long battery life, accurate tracking and ease of use. “This was my first experience with Garmin’s take on the concept, and I have to say it surprised me in several ways,” said one recent buyer.
“Rather than leaning into the more traditional smart features, Garmin instead chose to put the health and fitness features at the forefront.
“And while it is a little weird to get used to coming from a more traditional smart watch, I think there’s a lot that someone looking for a step up from more basic fitness trackers might find to love.”
Another said: “The Garmin Venu 3 touches all the bases for a great smartwatch. There are so many features and options to personalised your Garmin Venu 3 to fit your health and fitness goals.”
Fitbit Charge 6 Watch, $219.53 at Amazon Australia
Fitbit Charge 6 Watch
What You Need To Know
With over 40 unique exercise modes, the Fitbit Charge 6 is a premium fitness tracker that can help you set personal goals and get key workout stats for everything from daily runs and bike rides to HIIT workouts, strength training and more.
Featuring a Daily Readiness Score, the watch helps you know what your body can handle so you can dial your workout plans up or down, and built-in Google products include essentials like YouTube Music, Google Maps and Google Wallet.
Customers are saying the Fitbit Charge 6 is stylish, comfortable and great value for money.
“Overall I am happy with my purchase. The Charge 6 uses the same physical design of the Charge 5 while adding a haptic button like what the Charge 4 had. It is lower profile/slimmer than the Charge 4, which is nice for sleep tracking as it is not uncomfortable to wear when your arm is crammed beneath a pillow,” wrote one purchaser.
Another added: “The Fitbit Charge 6 is a great fitness tracker with some smartwatch aspirations. If you prioritise comfort, battery life, and detailed health insights, it's a strong contender.”
BEST OUTDOOR WATCHES FOR MEN
Timex Expedition North Tide Temp Compass Men’s Watch, $399.95 at Myer
What You Need To Know
The Timex Expedition North Tide Temp Compass Men’s Watch is the ultimate accessory for the tech savvy professional with a love for adventure.
The watch includes a tide-temp-compass feature with multiple functions including a tide tracker, temperature sensor, and analog compass display, which is all driven by a dedicated fourth hand.
The latest model is updated with a 45mm 316l stainless-steel case that’s resistant to rust and corrosion, a comfortable black silicone strap, and a teal dial design, complete with a rippled pattern reminiscent of the ocean.
Other details include luminescent hands and hour markers for enhanced visibility at night, a convenient date feature at the 6 o’ clock marker, and 100m of water resistance.
Tried and tested by Troy Nankervis, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer
The Timex Expedition North Tide Temp Compass Men’s Watch takes an elegant 1970s design and propels this into the 21st century with a whole range of features that makes it perfect as an all-rounder for a whole range of activities outdoors.
I’ve been wearing this one for about two weeks now and don’t want to take it off.
I love its weight, which is not too heavy, and given it’s waterproof, I’ve been wearing it during my morning ocean swims. The casing, which is stainless steel, is resistant to scratching and rusting, and I’ve read that this won’t tarnish.
Initially I thought I wouldn’t be a fan of the silicone strap, as my old watch had a leather band, but I don’t think it detracts from its design, and it’s stylish to wear both during work hours and while socialising.
The Timex Expedition North Tide Temp Compass Men’s Watch is also great for use at night and features luminescent hands, plus there’s an attractive Indiglo blue light that you can button on if you don’t have a direct light source to check the time.
There’s a whole bunch of features in this watch which will come in handy too during the warmer months, I like having the compass feature if I’ll be going on hikes and camping and without phone reception, and the bidirectional tide tracker (on the centre hand) is a nice touch that I’m sure I’ll utilise during beach trips across summer.
If you’re looking for a watch that matches style and function, the Timex Expedition North Tide Temp Compass Men’s Watch is a great selection.
BEST CLASSIC WATCHES FOR MEN
Fossil Grant Men's Chronograph Watch, $299.00 at THE ICONIC
Fossil Grant Men's Chronograph Watch
What You Need To Know
Sleek, self-winding and styled to tick on time with a built-in rotor, the Fossil Grant watch does the work for you.
This timeless automatic gets refreshed for the season with a refined dial and rich leather strap, with no batteries required, given it uses a 40-hour power reserve.
Unsurprisingly, customers say the Fossil Grant is a timepiece that really goes the distance.
“I keep coming back to fossil automatic watches simply because I don't want to have a battery next to my bloodstream. These watches are simple, yet elegant and also at a great price,” said one buyer.
Another said: “Got this watch for my boyfriend for Christmas and he went absolutely crazy. Beautiful craftsmanship and a beautiful watch face.”
Casio AQ230A-2A2 Watch, $109 at THE ICONIC
Casio AQ230A-2A2 Watch
What You Need To Know
Charmingly classic and popping with colour, the Casio AQ230A-2A2 watch blends retro simplicity with modern functionality, and at $109, is also a very affordable.
A stylish analog watch, the watch face also includes a small digital window, and boasts a versatile, elegant design to complement every occasion, from dressy formal events to casual outings.
“Great little watch with the colour easy on the eye. Watch is thin as is the strap, so easy to setup. Designed as a dress watch I would with highly functional features. Wears well to any skin complexion. Casio got this one right,” said one customer.
Another said: “I have been wearing this watch for a few days now and it is everything I wanted it to be. In fact everything I want from a watch. It has both analog and digital features that seamlessly fit together into one watch so aesthetically.”
Ted Baker Fulmaar Mens Watch, $260 at THE ICONIC
Tried and tested by Troy Nankervis, news.com.au checkout Shopping Writer.
Featuring a black recycled stainless steel case, black dial and matching black leather strap, the Ted Baker Fulmaar Men’s watch is crafted for versatility and performs well in many different settings.
I initially felt the black colour motif on both the watch face and the leather strap would not pair well with other pieces in my wardrobe, but I was mistaken, and its understated approach is actually one of its strengths.
Presented beautifully in a green box, the Ted Baker Fulmaar Men’s watch is a great timepiece that will dress up any outfit, particularly if you’re wearing black leather shoes and a black leather belt, you’re onto a winner here.
As far as its design goes, I particularly like the separation of the minute and second markers on the face, and the touches of white and caramel colour tones.
This wouldn’t be something I’d wear to the gym or during sport, but in these examples I would just take the watch off and keep with my other belongings.
Simple yet stylish, this is a great choice if you’re looking for an everyday timepiece that can be worn to work, or out and about after.
BEST DESIGNER WATCHES FOR MEN
Versace V-Code watch, $1344 (down from $1920) at THE ICONIC
Versace V-Code
What You Need To Know
Perfect for any event or occasion, the Versace V-Code men's watch is all about style, class and prestige, and will help with lifting any man’s wardrobe with a little touch of luxury.
Incorporating Swiss quartz movement, the black dial with Greca pattern is complemented by a day-of-the-month date stamp and is protected by sapphire glass with anti-reflection.
If you’re also dreaming about a European summer on an Italian beach, in good news the timepiece is also water resistant to 50 metres.
So you can wear the Versace V-Code men on that international flight to Sicily, or even better, save it for the warmer months down under.
Guess Rebel, $275 (down from $549.95) at THE ICONIC
Guess Rebel Men's Watch
What You Need To Know
Look sharp for your night on the town with the Black Studded Rebel Watch from Guess.
If you’re never had a designer timepiece, things might all be about to change with this watch, which deserves your attention.
Perfect as a statement piece and guaranteed to turn, its edgy and rebellious design includes a black polished band, stud detailing and the iconic Guess logo.
Currently retailing for $184.95 at THE ICONIC, this is a great bargain for a designer brand, be quick because they definitely won’t last long at this price.
Tommy Hilfiger Mason Multi-Function Blue Silver Steel Watch, $349 at Myer
Tommy Hilfiger Mason Multi-Function Blue Silver Steel Watch
What You Need To Know
Experience accurate timekeeping with this Tommy Hilfiger Mason Silver Steel Men's Multi-function watch.
The watch features a 45mm stainless steel case and the 21mm band wraps snugly around your wrist, while the mineral crystal dial in captivating blue adds a touch of style.
Not only does it look classy, customers say it’s great value for money that is a perfect gift for a loved one too.
“Gave this to my husband as a surprise gift. He really loved it ! The red and navy blue combo is always In fashion,” said one buyer from Melbourne.
Another said: “I was surprised how elegant the watch looked. I purchased it as a Christmas present for my son. It was the watch he had been looking for.”
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A MEN'S WATCH
Brand
When it comes to watches, brands play a big role in style and function. A well known watch brand has their reputation to uphold, which embodies their expertise, historical significance and craftsmanship. For customers, you may also link a level of status or attractiveness to the timepiece you decide to purchase.
Budget
Watches are often a statement piece, or a treasured keepsake, so if you’re planning on having a watch for a long time, how much you’re willing to spend is an important consideration. But also don’t get FOMO. If you have $100 to spend as opposed to $5000, be clear on your limits and expectations, and there will be a watch out there that ticks all the boxes on style, function, and in this case, price.
Materials
The craftsmanship of a timepiece can have a big impact on the price and quality of the watch you purchase. Stainless steel is commonly used now in classic watches, and outdoor watches, while smartwatches may incorporate resins and polymers alongside an LED display. Always do your research, and way up the elements before you make a decision.
Function
It’s important to be clear on how you’re intending to use your watch as this will really inform the model and brand you lean towards. If you’re after something for traditional, everyday use, then you may lean towards a more classic design with Quartz movement.
While if you’re keen to find something to help support your health and fitness, then a smartwatch or fitness watch may be a better choice because you’ll get a whole bunch of added features including fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring and exercise programs - all the things you need to burn those calories.
HOW WE CHOOSE PRODUCTS
To help you pick out the perfect watch that matches your style and budget, we chatted with GQ Australia’s watch expert Will Lennox, who shared his top picks and tips.
Plus, our team of writers dug into tons of customer reviews and kept an eye on what’s hot on TikTok and Instagram.
We’ve rounded up the coolest watches you’ll want to check out, plus we also road-tested a number of timepieces too, in order to give you balanced, honest and independent reviews.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What watch styles or brands are popular right now?
With so many makes and models to choose from, it can be understandably a little overwhelming to pick a watch that’s right for you. Luckily, we’ve stepped in to help speed up the decision making process for you with our top tips from GQ Australia watch expert Will Lennox.
“Timex is really doing well at the moment, same with Swatch. They are bringing great quality watches and offering them at a really solid price, which is rare in the top end of watches,” he said.
“The styles are varied and they’re both really well made. At the top end, you can’t go past Cartier, Rolex, and Omega, but as I said, make sure they’re in your budget.”
How can a watch stand the test of time?
If you’re investing in a timepiece, you want it to be long-lasting. And so when it comes to selecting a watch itself, Lennox said this comes down to the producer and materials of the product.
“Look for a watch made with metal or ceramic, that should make sure the watch itself holds up to daily use,” he said.
“Opt for watchmakers with good reputations, and you’ll be sorted for an investment. Then, of course, you need to take care of it too!”
What is a good watch for everyday use?
A great watch is not only stylish and durable, it’s also versatile and can be worn across a number of different settings, including day to day use.
“Watches made with durable materials and a comfortable strap are suited to use every day, as they wont be a nuisance on the wrist,” Lennox said.
“Another thing, if you have slender wrists, like myself, I would avoid watches with bulky dials, they are prone to sliding around and that might be cause for damage, particularly if you’re using it every day.”
What is the best way to select a designer watch?
If you’re looking for a statement piece, a designed watch can be a good place to start. Lennox said it’s often paying that little big extra for a timepiece you can cherish for decades to come.
“Watches are luxury items—at the top end—for good reason. They are sometimes truly works of art, with complications requiring the most incredible attention to detail,” he said.
“They’re a marker of good taste, and a necessary accessory in the modern wardrobe. I think if you can afford it, they make wonderful heirlooms for families, and will serve their wearer for decades if looked after properly, and how special is that?”
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