These are the best watches for women in 2024, from quartz to automatic
The best watches for women are a subject of constant debate. While some may look for a piece that does it all – reads your texts, tracks your steps, measures your heart rate and so on – others might seek something that simply tells the time. And no matter which side of the watch fence you're on, there are plenty of options to suit every style.
Whether you're looking to spend £50, £500 or £5000, watches are an investment – and one which not everyone will agree on. The same as you would when looking to buy a designer handbag; it's important you do your research when it comes to watches. What are you going to wear most often? Do you want a stainless steel strap, silicone, leather? Are the mechanics of a watch important to you? Would you prefer one that's been handmade as opposed to one that's not? Told you, it's no easy feat.
So allow us to help you dive into women's watch territory and answer any questions with the help of a handful of experts: Beth Lucas, watch buyer at Beaverbrooks; Vivian Stauffer, CEO at Hamilton, and Anneke Short, co-founder of The Camden Watch Company.
SKIP TO: Shop the best watches for women | What kind of watch should a woman wear? | What watch goes best with every outfit? | How we chose the best watches for women.
But before we kick off, let's keep in mind some wise words from Anneke. “In general, my biggest tip would be quite simply buy a watch you love,” she says. Adding, “do your research, make sure you are buying from a reputable company, but also don’t get too caught up in the watch snobbery – you are the one who will be wearing it every day and the most important thing is that you love it, and ultimately that is the difference between a good and a bad watch”. Wise words that we're sure could be used for much more than watches.
What kind of watch should a woman wear?
Looking to some of our favourite famous faces (or should we say wrists) for watch inspiration, it's clear that personal preference is the most important and dial face, material and shade are three key areas to pay attention to.
Finding the right sized watch face “depends very much on personal taste and whether you’re looking for something trend led or timeless,” shares Stauffer. “Currently, there is a trend for smaller watches, so a 34mm case is a great option if you’d like to make more of a fashion statement. Or If you’re shopping for a round watch, then a 36mm-38mm case is a great choice for women. Alternatively, if you’re in the market for a rectangular case, look for watches which are 35mm or smaller.”
When it comes to colour, classic designs with black, white and mother of pearl dials have always been the most popular in the watch world, but according to Beaverbrooks, a British jeweller which has over 2,000 watches for sale online, this year has seen an influx of people who are choosing more colourful options. Beth says, “bright, bold designs have been a leading trend in watches recently as brands become more experimental with colour palettes”.
And when it comes to strap styles, Short adds, “leather is comfy and versatile, whereas metal feels dressier and is of course very durable. This is great for formal wear or if you like a bit more bling. Then there’s the NATO/nylon style strap, which are lightweight and tough, perfect for active, sporty vibes”. So, plenty to choose from.
What watch goes best with every outfit?
“The beauty of watches is they are personal to the owner, so only you can decide how and when you want to wear it. There is simply no right or wrong approach,” says Lucas.
If you wear a lot of silver jewellery go for a watch that fits in with your everyday pieces, and the same for if you wear yellow or rose gold. It's also wise, if possible, to invest in a second watch strap in a different material, so you can swap them around to suit your ensemble. Bella Hadid is known to be a fan of this Tory Burch style snapped below.
If you were to take a leaf out of Princess Diana's book, then Cartier's Tank Louis fits the bill for adding a quiet luxury look. She was often spotted wearing this model, but she was also fond of Patek Philippe. It’s been said that she'd sometimes wear two – her own, a gold Patek Philippe Calatrava, plus Charles' Disco Volante – to bring him luck during his matches.
What is the difference between quartz and mechanical movement watches?
When getting into the nitty gritty of watch designs, this is a key question. “In the watch world, a movement is the mechanism within a watchcase that powers a timepiece. The term originated with early clockwork machines made up of many moving parts," explains Stauffer. “Movements, also known as calibers, vary widely by watch and can be mechanical (consisting of hand winding and automatic variations) or quartz,” she adds.
Adding to the explanation, Short continues, “quartz watches are battery powered. They are low-maintenance and very accurate, great if you want a no-fuss, reliable timepiece. While automatics, on the other hand, are self-winding, and need regular wear or a watch winder to keep ticking, but also, a little bit more magical than a quartz.” So, there you have it.
And when it comes to the best brands of women's watches, Lucas adds, “Swiss-made, automatic watch is a precisely engineered mechanical object and extraordinarily labour-intensive to make, which is reflected in a higher price point. The TAG Heuer Carrera Stainless Steel Automatic Watch, for example, strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort, while offering all the features you’d expect from Swiss craftsmanship.” Although all of the watches in this round-up are incredibly impressive.
How we chose the best watches for women in this round-up:
With the help of experts, plus data based on the designs that sell out time and time again, we've compiled a list of what we feel are the best watches for women in 2024. We've taken customer reviews, specifications, cost and materials into consideration so you don't have to, and we've payed particular attention to wearability. Our aim is always to find pieces that will last, and, as a team of 30+, we've tried and tested our fair share of watches to know which ones are worth shouting about. See our thoughts along with everything else below.
What are the best women's watches? Scroll to see.
For more from GLAMOUR UK's Senior Commerce Writer Georgia Trodd, follow her on Instagram @georgiatrodd.
Omega De Ville Prestige Stainless Steel Mother of Pearl Quartz Ladies Watch
- Finish: Stainless steel.
- Size: 27.5mm.
- Movement: Quartz.
Why we love it: Omega watches may come at a more premium price point, but the craft that goes into them explains why. This one features a stunning mother of pearl dial and Sedna™ gold touches to finish.
Save when you shop for the best watches for women with these Beaverbrooks discount codes at checkout.
Tommy Hilfiger Ladies' Rose Gold Tone Stainless Steel Bracelet Watch
- Finish: Stainless steel and ion plating.
- Size: 30mm.
- Movement: Quartz.
Why we love it: If rose gold is your vibe, this timepiece from Tommy Hilfiger is a must. It's minimalist in appearance but the sparkling diamante studs around the edge of the slightly green dial lend more than enough glamour. The best part? It's currently on sale.
Save when you shop for the best watches for women with these H.Samuel discount codes at checkout.
- Finish: 14k golden colour PVD.
- Size: 174mm.
- Movement: Swiss quartz movement.
Why we love it: Hey Harper's DNA watch is certainly for those who prefer jewellery over watches. With a thick yellow gold-plated chain, it truly leans into the trending chunky gold jewellery look while boasting a chic face to make sure you're always in the right place, at the right time. Plus, it's water resistant up to 30 metres, making it a great all-weather wonder as well.
Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation)
- Finish: Aluminium and rubber.
- Size: 40mm.
- Movement: Smart watch.
Why we love it: If you lead an active lifestyle, there's no denying the appeal of an Apple Watch. They're able to do so much more than simply tell the time; functionality is their middle name. From monitoring your heart rate to tracking your steps, stride, pace and so on, the touch screen watch face design deserves a spot in any watch collection. Plus the silicone strap is actually incredibly comfortable and water resistant as well.
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Tudor Clair de Rose 34mm steel case diamond-set dial
- Finish: Stainless steel.
- Size: 34mm.
- Movement: Automatic.
Why we love it: Plenty of celebs love men's watches, Victoria Beckham included, and this Tudor option offers exactly that. With a stainless steel strap, blue face and chunky design, it leans into a more masculine look that will add a tougher edge to any outfit.
TAG Heuer Carrera Stainless Steel Automatic Ladies Watch
- Finish: Stainless steel.
- Size: 36mm.
- Movement: Automatic.
Why we love it: This watch strikes the perfect balance between elegance and ‘everyday’. The sapphire crystal glass creates a polished appearance to the brushed sunray dial.
Save when you shop for the best watches for women with these Beaverbrooks discount codes at checkout.
- Finish: Stainless steel.
- Size: 25mm.
- Movement: Quartz.
Why we love it: Clean-lined and elegant, the Eleanor watch from Tory Burch features a geometric case, an oversized Double T clasp and a classic link bracelet in gold-tone stainless steel. The only problem is it keeps selling out.
Save when you shop for the best watches for women with these Tory Burch discount codes at checkout.
Michael Kors Lexington Chronograph Watch
- Finish: Stainless steel.
- Size: 38mm.
- Movement: Quartz.
Why we love it: “This was my first ever watch and I still wear it to this day – 12 years later. It looks far more expensive than it is (I've had several people ask me if it's a Rolex) and wears incredibly well. It even has a date window.” – Georgia Trodd, Commerce Writer.
Save when you shop for the best watches for women with these Amazon discount codes at checkout.
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Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Date Automatic 40mm Stainless Steel and Leather Watch
- Finish: Stainless steel and leather.
- Size: 40mm.
- Movement: Automatic.
Why we love it: Jaeger-LeCoultre has long been one of the most luxurious watch brands around and this simple yet chic brown leather option is one of our favourite finds. Made in Switzerland, the luxury automatic watch leans into the quiet luxury aesthetic with a minimalist appearance, earning a spot on plenty of wishlists.
BOSS Hailey Link Gold Tone Quartz Ladies Watch
- Finish: Stainless steel and ion plating.
- Size: 30mm.
- Movement: Quartz.
Why we love it: More like a piece of jewellery as opposed to a watch, this delicate design from BOSS is for the women who don't want anything too chunky or standout-ish. It's still sure to gain you compliments, though.
Gucci G-Timeless Stainless Steel Blue Quartz Ladies Watch
- Finish: Stainless steel.
- Size: 32mm.
- Movement: Quartz.
Why we love it: From the bees that adorn the dial to the instantly recognisable interlocking G's at the crown, this watch is sure to gain you some credibility.
- Finish: Steel and yellow gold.
- Size: 32mm.
- Movement: Quartz.
Why we love it: In a luxe, high-shine finish, Longines' heritage-inspired watch is a classic choice. Crafted from rose gold and steel, the simple yet chic two-tone timepiece will work with any outfit. Plus, it's Swiss, making it one of the best in class when it comes to design.
- Finish: Stainless steel.
- Size: 27mm.
- Movement: Quartz.
Why we love it: Hamilton's American Classic watch got its name for good reason. Inspired by the Art Deco designs of a 1935 model, it uses strong angular lines to create a simple yet striking design with a steel bracelet and a face that's actually curved to be more comfortable on the wrist. Plus, it uses roman numerals on the face, adding to the elegant design.
The Camden Watch Company No.24 Tan and Gold
- Finish: Gold plated stainless steel and leather.
- Size: 27mm.
- Movement: Japanese quartz.
Why we love it: This classic gold leather strap watch was designed with jewellery layer in mind, meaning it looks just as chic worn alone as it does stacked with bracelets and bangles (which, if you're anything like us, you're sure to have plenty of).
Bvlgari Rose Gold and Stainless Steel Serpenti Tubogas Watch 35mm
- Finish: Rose gold and stainless steel.
- Size: 35mm.
- Movement: Quartz.
Why we love it: Demonstrating the brands expertise in jewellery with its affinity for snakes, the Serpenti Tubogas watch wraps around the wrist like a coil all while paying tribute to Greek and Roman mythology. Tres chic. This also means it's one of the most instantly recognisable watches around, perfect for luxury lovers.
Breitling Super Chronomat 38 Blue Diamond Automatic Ladies Watch
- Finish: Stainless steel.
- Size: 38mm.
- Movement: Mechanical.
Why we love it: If you want to ensure you never go unnoticed in a crowd, then this Breitling watch is the one for you. It's studded with a diamond bezel and finished with a shimmering blue dial.
Save when you shop for the best watches for women with these Beaverbrooks discount codes at checkout.
Timex Easy Reader Women's Leather Strap Watch
- Finish: Gold-tone brass and leather.
- Size: 25mm.
- Movement: Quartz.
Why we love it: Simple, understated, no explanations needed. This affordable offering from Timex will be one of your most-worn accessories, guaranteed.
Save when you shop for the best watches for women with these Amazon discount codes at checkout.
- Finish: Stainless steel and nylon.
- Size: 38mm.
- Movement: Quartz.
Why we love it: This unisex watch is for those who love their luxury labels. With a green and red strap, it's undeniably a Gucci find that's also set to be incredibly comfortable thanks to the fabric strap. Now, to add a matching bag.
- Finish: Stainless steel and leather.
- Size: 36mm.
- Movement: Automatic.
Why we love it: You can appreciate the intricacies of Piaget's masterful automatic movement from the exhibition case back – a detail we just can't get over.
Save when you shop for the best watches for women with these Net-A-Porter discount codes at checkout.
Cartier Large Tank Louis Cartier Watch
- Finish: Yellow gold and alligator leather.
- Size: 25.5mm.
- Movement: Quartz.
Why we love it: You can track Cartier's iconic 'Tank' watch back to its debut in 1919, where the first six designs were inspired by the aerial view of its namesake combat vehicle. The Maison has made only subtle updates to the original since, so if you want something truly classic – this is your piece. The Tank Louis comes Princess Diana-approved, too.
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Sekonda Monica Ladies' Two Tone Bracelet Watch
- Finish: Alloy metal.
- Size: 23mm.
- Movement: Quartz.
Why we love it: No matter if you're a gold or silver jewellery fan, this two-tone bracelet watch perfectly ticks both boxes. Plus, it's a nice and affordable find coming in at less than £60 despite looking like a much more luxurious price point.
Save when you shop for the best watches for women with these H.Samuel discount codes at checkout.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 31 Watch
- Finish: Oystersteel.
- Size: 31mm.
- Movement: Mechanical.
Why we love it: Rolex has made quite the name for itself over recent years, likely due to the fact that you'll struggle to get hold of one brand new. That said, it's no surprise why everyone wants one; they're all designed and manufactured in-house, largely by hand to ensure perfection. The Oyster Perpetual is our top choice.
Grand Seiko Heritage Quartz SBGX261
- Finish: Stainless steel.
- Size: 37mm.
- Movement: Quartz.
Why we love it: Fans of Grand Seiko rely on the brand to deliver accuracy, legibility and durability, and this watch exemplifies all of that. It showcases a black-hued dial which complements the stainless steel bracelet perfectly.
Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 35mm Unisex Watch White
- Finish: Stainless steel.
- Size: 35mm.
- Movement: Automatic.
Why we love it: Tissot's PRX watch is a real fan favourite amongst watch lovers and a bestseller for good reason. In a chic stainless steel case, its minimalist design leans lends a vintage feel as its one from the archives of 1978 while the mother of pearl dial gives it a little luxurious spin.
Chanel Premiere Edition Originale H6951
- Finish: Stainless steel and yellow gold.
- Size: 20mm.
- Movement: Quartz.
Why we love it: Chanel isn't necessarily known for its watches, oh no, but this bracelet watch design is here to prove otherwise. Taking the luxury label's iconic bag strap into a timepiece design, it's certainly chic and perfect for those in love with the brand.
