If you’ve been on this planet long enough to remember when phones were used only for making calls, and television shows were watched only on TV screens, then you’ll remember there was also a time when watches were used only to tell the time.
Arguably the most useful piece of jewellery ever invented, the ‘bracelet with a clock on it’ as it was once known now provides all of the same functionality our phones, televisions, and even computers once did exclusively.
If you long for those simpler times when the mailbox out the front of your house was the only item you owned that could receive your written correspondence, and not the device on your wrist, here’s our roundup of the best watches that not only tell the time but will also look fabulous on your wrist, too.
BEST FASHION WATCH BRANDS
When Fossil hit the market in 1984, it soared to popularity as one of the first brands able to make attractive yet affordable timepieces - before then options were limited to high-end Omegas or cheap rip-offs. Today, the brand remains at the forefront offering on-trend designs, whether they be analogue or smart, that work. Translation: you won’t ever regret buying a Fossil. We particularly love the brand’s rose gold smartwatch. A slick timepiece in a chic colour (that also happens to be waterproof)? Yes please.
Editor’s pick: Fossil Charter Hybrid Smartwatch, $258
Founders Amy and Scott Hawkes say they “create classic, go-to pieces that don’t become obsolete with the seasons”. A perennial bestseller, the watch design may be classic, but the materials (resin, leather, translucent silicone) and unique colourways (from rose gold to terracotta) allow you to tailor them to your own style. With a price point starting at just $99, the brand truly combines quality with affordability.
Editor’s pick: The Horse The Original, $149
A perfect pick for the minimalist, at Aussie-owned Status Anxiety you’ll find a mix of modern designs created with simplicity at the core. What you see is what you get - a great quality watch that is as stylish as it is functional. For those needing an everyday timepiece you can’t go past its monochrome watches which are all designed in the brand’s Sydney studio.
Editor’s pick: Status Anxiety Inertia Watch, $129.95
With surf, skate and snow roots, Nixon offers a range of analogue, sport and digital watches that have a street style aesthetic. Along with classic leather bands, the brand also offers silver and gold chain styles that are meant for a lifestyle on the go whether it be a gym workout, skate session or 10am presentation.
Editor’s pick: Nixon Kensington Watch, $259.99
For the style lover, Michael Kors wins the award for best all rounder. The brand delivers quality and designer looks within a reasonable price point (psst, if you love a deal, it’s worth bookmarking this Amazon page as MK watches are often heavily discounted by the retailer). The brand also caters to a broad range of needs with smart watches, analogue watches and fashion watches all on offer. We can’t go past the Gen 5E Darci Gold-Tone Smartwatch, which combines fashion with cutting-edge technology. Tracking your steps never looked so good.
Editor’s pick:Michael Kors Gen 5E Darci Gold Smartwatch, $499
Daniel Wellington is all about working the watches into your wardrobe. The brand boasts an extensive range of great bracelet and watch sets, as well as watch and necklace sets, and options for two different types of interchangeable bands. One watch, so many possibilities.
Editor’s pick: Daniel Wellington Petite Melrose, $219
Mestige uses Swarovski crystals in its designs on the face or band, making these timepieces the perfect option for those who like a little bling in their look without the hefty price point.
Editor’s pick: Mestige Luna Watch, $120
If you’re after an intricate face that makes people do a double take, then you have found your match. From bee motifs to delightful case cuffs and floral dials, these are watches for people who like to push the boundaries.
Editor’s pick: Olivia Burton Vintage Bow, $299
If you are just like a bowerbird, wanting to fill your jewellery box with beautiful things, may we direct your stylish eye this way. Rosefield has a unique way of experimenting with face shapes and also offers necklace and earring sets with the whole look in mind.
Editor’s pick: Rosefield The Mini Boxy, $169.95
BEST DESIGNER WATCH BRANDS
Top designers know that you’re never fully dressed without the right accessories. These prestigious design houses are tried and tested favourites that offer a range of classic and on-trend pieces to add something a little special to your jewellery box:
BEST LUXURY AND FINE WATCH BRANDS
Jackie Onasis wore a Cartier Tank, Marilyn Monroe a Blancpain and Grace Kelly an Omega. If you’re looking to splash out or get your hands on an investment piece, here’s a round up of iconic luxury brands whose timepieces really stand the test of time.
BEST SPORTS WATCH / SMARTWATCH BRANDS
Nowadays, we expect everything to multi-task and work that little bit harder – including ourselves. With brands like Apple, Samsung and Fitbit pushing the boundaries between form and function, smartwatches are quickly becoming the new status symbol. From entry-level models that time your workouts to watches that are pretty much PTs on your wrist, here are the best smartwatch brands.
Apple
Available at The Good Guys and Harvey Norman.
Fitbit
Available at Rebel Sport, The Iconic and Amazon.
Garmin
Available at Amazon, The Good Guys and Rebel Sport.
WHERE ARE THE BEST PLACES TO BUY PRE-OWNED WATCHES?
Both Farfetch and Shopbop are turning back the hands of time offering the opportunity to buy pre-owned designer classics including Chanel, Christian Dior, Fendi, Gucci, Versace, Yves Saint Laurent and Hermès at a fraction of their original retail prices. But you better hurry – as they’re pre-owned, they’re all one-offs.
WHERE ARE THE BEST PLACES TO BUY WATCHES ONLINE?
In Australia, you don’t need to venture out of your home to secure a beautiful timepiece. If you’re looking for Australian brands, as well as mid-range designer offerings, places like The Iconic and Myer should be your go-to. Amazon offers great American designers (think Michael Kors, Tommy Hilfiger and Anne Klein) at good prices, whilst sportier, street-ready styles can be found at City Beach, SurfStitch, Rebel Sport and Catch. If high end is more your vibe, Farfetch, Net-a-Porter, MyTheresa and 24S are certain to have options you’ll love.
WHAT TO ENGRAVE ON A WATCH
You can make a timepiece even more significant through personalisation, whether for yourself or a loved one. Some watch retailers offer the service when you purchase, however most jewellery stores will also do it on site. Simple initials or a date are classy-yet-poignant tributes, while small messages add a personal touch. You also can’t go past a classic time pun, something like: “I love you more every second”, “For all of time” or “Until the end of time”.
After more accessories? Fill your jewellery box with the jewels and chains designed by our local talent in our roundup of Australian jewellery brands, or get your hands on some cool new sunglasses from top and emerging brands.
To get the best deal on every purchase, be sure to check out news.com.au Coupons, where you’ll find discounts on brands like Country Road, The Iconic, and many more.
Originally published as 34 Best Watch Brands For Women To Buy In Australia In 2022
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7r7HWrGWcp51jrrZ7wqGcnKOfqsFwssCsn6KnnmKur7CMmpqcnaOovLO1xKxmn5mjnbawuoyampydo6i8s7XErGajnaeaua2x0bJmm52jqXqjvsCnm56cXayuta%2FHnqpmnp%2Bneri7zJ6laKaVrMBuv9OoqbJnaZmwcoDFcmdqnGJog6J8km5pb56TmLJzg8Rpa56dlGU%3D