30 Best Dress Watches

Searching for the ideal dress watch is like finding the perfect suit. You will need to choose the one that best captures your personality and elevates your overall appeal. Dress watches are the kind of timepieces that will have people taking you more seriously. They are especially essential during important business meetings, board presentations, and other types of glamorous or formal occasions. Dress watches do not necessarily come with dozens of features or the bulky builds of sportier models. Instead, they tend to be slimmer, more refined, and classier in design. Dress watches carry a certain level of prestige and a luxurious aura that sets them apart from any other timepiece.

30 Best Dress Watches

Like a suit, it is crucial that you do your research before properly making your dress watch purchase. Fortunately, we went ahead and rounded up thirty of the most popular dress watches available on the market. Keep in mind that the list comes in no particular order, and each dress model recorded here is an excellent option in its own right. We also provided each watch with its approximate price range. Additionally, we have also tried to avoid repeating brands, so as to ensure that every great watchmaker has a chance in the spotlight.

1. Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso – $5,090 USD to $79,090 USD

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso is easily one of the most fascinating and innovative dress watches ever made. Its iconic reversible case allows wearers to turn the watch around to keep the dial safe from external impacts. Over the years, Jaeger-LeCoultre has brought all sorts of new designs to their Reverso lineup. From classic models with no-frills to sophisticated chronographs and tourbillons, the Reverso selection is immense and diverse. Quite frankly, no other collection has made the same impact on Jaeger-LeCoultre like the Reverso has. What was once a timepiece catered to polo matches has become one of the most talked-about dress watches in existence. 

2. Patek Philippe Calatrava – $18,100 USD to $203,350 USD

Introduced in 1932, the Patek Philippe Calatrava stands as the brand’s flagship model. With its timeless design and impeccable features, many enthusiasts and collectors would consider the Calatrava to be the personification of top-notch Swiss watchmaking. Patek Philippe drew inspiration from the Bauhaus art movement when designing this flagship watch. Like many other exquisite dress watches, the Calatrava is a timepiece that showcases precious minerals and sophisticated watchmaking craftsmanship. One particularly outstanding model, illustrated above, is the Calatrava 5296G-010. It comes in a 38mm gorgeous white gold case with a lacquered cream dial and a black alligator leather strap. On the surface of its dial are applied white-gold hour markers and dauphine hands. 

3. Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chrono – $2,305 USD to $2,390 USD

Powered by a Hamilton Calibre H-31, this Intra-Matic Auto Chrono is essentially a follow-up to the brand’s vintage Thin-O-Matic. Right off the bat, what truly makes this timepiece stand out is the execution of its watch face. With its color contrasts, legibility, and proportions, the dial boasts a panda-like appearance that is both stunning and pleasing to the eyes. Protecting this dress timepiece is a polished stainless steel case accompanied by elegant faceted lugs. The case also has a large crown with two pump pushers and a solid steel case back delicately engraved with Hamilton’s favorite letter, the letter “H.”

4. Timex Metropolitan+ Activity Tracker – $100 USD

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The Metropolitan+ is an excellent Timex dress watch for wearers on a relatively tight budget. One of the most intriguing things about this timepiece is that it can act as both a smartwatch and a personal fitness trainer. It carries a classic design similar to that of the Timex Weekender, and comes with great fitness-tracking capabilities. On the whole, this watch is the complete package. Its sleek and professional exterior is fit for even the most formal of occasions, it can connect to your phone via Bluetooth, and it even tracks your steps. In addition, the Timex Metropolitan+ is also pretty reliable and sturdy with its all-stainless steel exterior. As the saying goes, a Timex can take a licking and still keep ticking. 

5. Hermes Slim d’Hermes – $7,050 to $7,375

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After undergoing a dramatic 21st-century facelift, the new and improved Slim d’Hermes is chic yet modest in appearance. For Hermes to achieve this slender new look, the creative director of La Montre Hermes implemented two elements into the watch: an ultra-thin automatic movement and an original dial. The brand also assigned famed Parisian graphic designer Philippe Apeloig to recreate the typography of the Slim d’Hermes, giving it slimmed-down numerals with even spaces in between for a clean and easy-to-read dial. On the whole, the Slim d’Hermes is a nicely balanced wristwatch and a gorgeous fashion statement.

6. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ultra-Thin – $150,000 USD

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It takes a whole lot of expertise and quality craftsmanship to make an ultra-thin watch. With spacings between each component almost non-existent, only the most skilled and seasoned watchmakers can create such a delicate and technical piece. For the next timepiece on this list of best dress watches, we have one of the world’s slimmest automatic perpetual calendars ever made, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ultra-Thin. Its exterior is made entirely from titanium and platinum, which makes it ultra-precious and ultra-light as well. Equipped with the signature Audemars Piguet octagonal bezel and a delightful royal blue dial, the Ultra-Thin brings us everything we love about the Royal Oak in an incredible 6.3mm-thick case. 

7. Grand Seiko Spring Drive SBGA211 “Snowflake” – $5,800 USD

Arguably the most recognizable Grand Seiko model ever, the Snowflake is a top-of-the-line dress watch like no other. Just a single look at the watch face, and just like everyone else, you will find yourself unable to take your eyes off that beguiling pure-white snowflake dial. That said, the true elegance of the Seiko SBGA211 only starts to reveal itself once you go from simply looking at it to really observing it and its functions. The sleek “Zaratsu” finishing on the case and bracelet, and the way it plays with the light; the ease with which its blue seconds-hand smoothly glides around the dial – these are but a few details that make this dress watch so stunning. The Spring Drive collection has come a long way, and the Snowflake has proven itself to be a game-changer, not just for the collection but also for Grand Seiko itself.

8. IWC Portofino Automatic – $5,300 USD to $14,000 USD

The IWC Portofino is a collection that started in 1984. Ever since then, it has grown into a diverse assembly of sophisticated and versatile dress watches. Although there are numerous unique timepieces to choose from in this lineup, the IWC Portofino Automatic remains a staple dress watch and a true fan-favorite. Its uncluttered dial holds an uncluttered and minimalistic design that matches perfectly with its sleek case. The prices of IWC Portofino Automatic can range between $5,300 USD and $14,000 USD. Located on the back of more expensive Portofino Automatic timepieces are engravings of the Portofino coast in all its timelessness and majesty.

9. Nomos Glashutte Orion Neomatik Date – $3,140 USD to $4,350 USD

Many watch enthusiasts associate Nomos Glashutte with striking yet minimalistic designs. Their pursuit of such a concept is eminently evident in one of their best dress watches, the Orion Neomatik Date. Each Neomatik Date features a look based on the Bauhaus Art movement, which was first designed in the cutting-edge heart of Berlin and then hand-crafted by experts in the watchmaking town of Glashutte. The Orion Neomatik Date is everything a modern dress watch aims to be. With its clean watch face, thin and lightweight stainless steel case, and domed sapphire glass, the Orion Neomatik is pleasing to both the eyes and the wrist. 

10. Nordgreen Native – $129 USD to $312 USD

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If you ever needed an appropriate reason to buy a dress watch, Nordgreen can give you one. Once you purchase this dazzling and eco-friendly dress timepiece, you not only get a beautiful timekeeper, but your purchase will also have a positive impact on our natural environment. The Nordgreen Native, along with its packaging, is made entirely out of high-quality, environmentally-friendly vegan materials. Additionally, for every Nordgreen Native sold, the brand allocates a portion of its income to a noble cause of your choosing. Using the serial and identification numbers in your watch, you can keep track of where the profits from your purchase go.

11. Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Self-Winding – $15,720 USD to $41,850 USD

As the oldest Swiss luxury watch manufacturer in the industry, Vacheron Constantin possesses a heritage and expertise that is relatively unmatched. Among the slew of brilliant and prestigious timepieces they have, the Patrimony emerges as the ideal dress watch. Inspired by Vacheron Constantin’s 1950s dress watches, the Patrimony collection blends minimalistic vintage designs with modern innovations and luxury. Deciding on the best Patrimony dress watch may prove to be quite a challenge as the collection is home to many different kinds of gorgeous timepieces. From classic manual-winding and self-winding models to perpetual calendars and retrogrades, you can find it all in the Patrimony collection. 

12. Rolex Datejust – $7,100 USD to $38,500 USD

Worn by celebrities and historical figures such as Ronald Reagan, Winston Churchill, Christian Bale, and Jennifer Aniston, the Rolex Datejust is as iconic as a dress watch can ever get. Like any other Rolex, the watch face is done brilliantly. Its dial plays with the light magically, and features all the essential components you need for timekeeping on its surface. Powering the watch is the Rolex 3235 movement, which boasts an accuracy of +/- 2 seconds per day. Protected by Rolex’s patented Oystersteel, the Datejust is as durable as it is lustrous. Just like an oyster, this timepiece is also pretty resilient underwater, having a water resistance rating of 100m.

13. Tag Heuer Carrera Calibre 5 Automatic 39mm – $2,550 USD

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As the name suggests, the Tag Heuer Carrera is a selection inspired by high-speed racing. And while the Carrera timepieces cater primarily to professional driving, their versatility and elegance also make for top-notch dress watches. Compared to the other timepieces in this lineup, the Tag Heuer Carrera Automatic has a neater-looking dial. As a result, the model looks less sporty and more refined, making it perfect for wearers to bring to momentous occasions. Its simplicity and somewhat retro feel are certainly some of its most attractive selling points.

14. Omega Constellation Globemaster – $5,900 USD to $11,900 USD

The Omega Globemaster holds the title of being the brand’s first METAS-approved chronometer movement. Like the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony, the Globemaster draws inspiration from vintage models, specifically Omega’s 1950s Constellation timepieces. Each Globemaster features a pie-pan dial which originated from the first 1952 Constellation model. Equipped with the brand’s latest innovations, the Globemaster represents a piece of Omega’s past and continues to carry the legacy of an iconic selection. While this watch is exceptionally stylish, the Globemaster is also very reliable as it comes with magnetic resistance of 15,000 gauss and a 60-hour power reserve.

15. Junghans Meister Handaufzug – $1,490 USD 

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Junghans is another brand that is known for its particular approach to minimalistic designs, and their Meister Handaufzug is a perfect encapsulation of that. With its oversized dial, slim stainless steel casing, SICRALAN-coated plexiglass crystal, J815.1 hand-wound caliber, and dark brown horse leather strap, the Meister Handaufzug accurately replicates the elegance of a classic vintage dress watch. This Junghans timepiece is worth approximately $1,400 USD, which is relatively affordable considering what it offers. It is truly a testament to the fact that buying a well-made dress watch does not have to mean breaking the bank.

16. Breguet Classique Ref. 5177 – $23,700 USD

Truthfully, every model in the Classique collection is an outstanding timepiece. But the one watch that hits all the marks of a traditional dress timekeeper has got to be the Classique Ref. 5177. Its timeless looks, slim profile, and refined build represent the level of sophistication and experienced craftsmanship that only Breguet can achieve. The Classique Ref. 5177 has several variations. Some models use a Grand Feu enamel dial, while others have dials hand-engraved by Breguet’s rose engine. Whichever model you end up choosing, Breguet assures you that you get a top-quality dress watch. 

17. Piaget Altiplano Meteorite – $41,600 USD

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Like the Breguet Classique, there are numerous unique dress watches in the Piaget Altiplano line, but the Meteorite stands out as the collection’s most fascinating-looking dress model. Its slender case is around 6.5mm thin and is made entirely from rose gold. Like with many other wristwatches, the dial of the Meteorite is the star of the show. The dial features a unique texture of grey meteorite coupled with rose gold markers and slim rose gold hands. Beneath the watch face is a 1203P caliber movement, which wearers can view through the transparent sapphire case back. The Altiplano Meteorite is a limited edition timepiece. As such, you would definitely want to make up your mind about a purchase before Piaget runs out of it.

18. Cartier Santos Dumont – $3,800 USD to $20,800 USD

In 1904, Louis Cartier created a timepiece for his Brazilian friend, Alberto Santos Dumont. Ever since then, his creation has been immortalized as one of the first wristwatches ever conceived. Fast-forward to this day, and the Santos Dumont is now one of Cartier’s most popular collections. Most Santos Dumont timepieces have a few things in common: A square profile, a polished bezel with screws, slender Roman numerals, and a cabochon-shaped crown. These intricate details are what make the timepiece and collection the icons they are today. The Santos Dumont comes in many variants with different sizes and can be powered by either a quartz caliber or a hand-wound movement. 

19. Girard-Perregaux 1966 – $8,300 USD to $18,700 USD

Underrated and underappreciated, Girard-Perregaux is one of the oldest Swiss watch manufacturers in the world. For 277 years, the brand has dedicated itself to studying and mastering Haute Horlogerie. The Girard-Perregaux 1966 reflects just how far the brand has come in its journey. It boasts a sleek and sophisticated case with a gorgeous dial that can contain many different complications, depending on the model chosen. The Girard-Perregaux 1966 also comes with a transparent sapphire case back to show off its complex movement in all its glory. With so many versions of the 1966 to choose from, you certainly will not be running out of options anytime soon.

20. Oris Artelier Date – $1,820 USD to $1,930 USD

Oris is yet another underrated watchmaker capable of dishing out all sorts of intriguing timepieces. In terms of dress watches specifically, Oris has the charismatic Artelier Date. Made in the lovely picturesque village of Holstein, the Artelier Date comes in a multi-piece stainless steel case paired with sapphire glass on top and a transparent mineral crystal as the case back. This timepiece has a lovely blue-guilloche dial and makes use of an Oris 733 automatic movement with a power reserve of 38 hours. If you want a more extravagant version of this dress watch, Oris offers the Artelier Date Diamonds, which has a silver-guilloche dial embellished with 12 luxurious diamonds.

21. Glashuette Original Sixties Panorama Date – $12,870 USD

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Glashuette Original first introduced the Sixties Panorama Date with a striking green watch face. Today, its dial comes in a variety of intriguing hues, including black, white, blue, and amber orange. There are many captivating dress watches in this series, but the Ref. 1-39-52-02-01-04 is what impresses us the most. Its blend of a lustrous rose gold case, galvanized black dial, slender rose gold hour markers, and Louisiana alligator leather strap just seamlessly capture a sense of unparalleled luxury. It also comes with a highly reliable automatic 39-47 caliber that can run for up to 40 hours before having to be rewound. For those who want some extra complications, Glashuette Original also provides chronograph models of the Sixties Panorama Date.

22. Zenith Elite Classic – $3,500 USD to $7,900 USD

With its entirely redesigned case and dial, the new Zenith Elite Classic has redefined itself with a more modern and eye-catching composition. As Zenith’s new icon, the Elite Classic 03.3100.670/02.C922 is made using the highest standards of Zenith watchmaking. Its ultra-thin Elite movement houses a total of 144 components and ticks at a beat frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. The Elite Classic also has a water resistance rating of 50m and a power reserve of 50 hours.

23. Chopard L.U.C. XPS 1860 – $23,275 USD

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For those looking to buy a new dress watch while also reducing their carbon footprint, look no further. Chopard is known for being a manufacturer that mines its gold ethically. Certified to meet international environmental and social standards, Chopard showcases their Fairmined gold in the L.U.C. XPS 1860. With its unmatched elegance, superb quality, and brilliant craftsmanship, the L.U.C. XPS 1860 is the perfect dress model for all the sophisticated and modern gentlemen out there. Its self-winding L.U.C. 96.01-L caliber is also a spectacle of its own, and wearers can view the movement through the watch’s sapphire crystal rear case. 

24. Seiko SARB065 Cocktail Time – $480 USD

This Seiko timepiece was created in collaboration with the famed Japanese bartender Shinobu Ishigaki. Powered by the 6R15 automatic movement, this watch has the convenience of being manually hackable and windable. Compared to the other dress watches on this list, the SARB065 is pretty thick, especially with its domed Hardlex crystal. Its black leather strap is also well-made and lined with blue thread. But the star of this dress timepiece is its gorgeous and highly reflective blue dial. The way it shimmers in the light and how it looks overall is something you would not expect from a watch of this price. Then again, Seiko has been turning heads with their affordable models for a long time now.

25. Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate – $9,870 USD to $38,930 USD

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The Blancpain Villeret Ultraplate highlights simplicity and minimalism at its finest. With only rose gold Roman numerals and slim hands on its opaline dial, you get to admire the beauty and pure aesthetics of a bonafide traditional dress watch with this timepiece. The beauty does not just stop there. Inside this technical magnum opus is an automatic Caliber 1151. It is only 3.25mm thick, but it contains a total of 210 components. Equipped with a 100-hour power reserve, wearers can view this in-house Blancpain movement at work through an exhibition-style sapphire case back.

26. Baume & Mercier Classima 10597 – $2,750 USD

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Sporting a polished 18K rose gold and titanium case, the Classima 10597 displays a classic design with contemporary sophistication. Its silver-colored opaline dial features slender rose gold indices accompanied by a thin rose gold handset. With only a small date complication as an extra function, the dial comes together neatly and exudes luxury and timelessness. Altogether, this Baume & Mercier dress watch is lightweight, stylish, and a delight to wear at any given time.

27. Vincero Icon Automatic – $290 USD to $315 USD

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One glance at the Vincero Icon Automatic, and your attention immediately, goes to the striking black dial with its skeleton hands and baton-like rose gold hour markers. The Vincero Icon Automatic is another dress watch that will not cost you an arm. Its casing is made of surgical-grade stainless steel and it comes with a top-grain Italian leather strap. The Icon Automatic relies on a Seiko automatic movement to run its multiple mechanisms. Water-resistant up to depths of 100m, you can use this timepiece to up your style on dressy occasions or you can bring it with you for a quick dive in the pool. 

28. SINN 1739 St I S – $2,170 USD

It is not easy to make a minimalist dress watch that really stands out. While some can pull it off well, others end up making the watch look too simple and generic. SINN’s 1739 St, however, is an example of minimalism done right. Protected by a high-quality scratch-resistant sapphire glass, the 1739 St’s black sunburst dial has a timeless and quintessential appearance that you simply cannot take your eyes off it. Accompanied by extended slim hour markers, sleek silver hands, and a polished stainless steel exterior, this SINN timepiece is a pleasure to look at, and its glamor speaks for itself. 

29. Montblanc Heritage Chronometrie Automatic – $3,370 USD to $5,700 USD

As an understated luxury dress watch, Montblanc’s Heritage Chronometrie Automatic is a timepiece that exemplifies Swiss watchmaking at its finest. This dress watch utilizes a 38mm case made from expertly polished stainless steel. With its glossy silver-white dial, rose gold-plated applique indices, and sword-like minute and hour hands, the Heritage Chronometrie Automatic is a dress piece that can make anyone look great.

30. MVMT Atlas – $175 USD

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Three words can best describe the MVMT Atlas: affordable, elegant, and minimalistic. It has a smooth black dial surface accented by gold-colored skeletal hands and indices and a matching brown leather strap. Based on its aesthetics alone, you can tell that the MVMT Atlas is the kind of dress watch fit for the modern everyday gentleman. This watch has a 41mm case diameter and runs on a battery-powered Miyota quartz movement. The durability of the Atlas is quite good, considering its status as a dress piece and its affordable price tag. It uses hardened mineral glass to protect its dial and has a water resistance capacity of 50m.

Final Thoughts

Exceptional dress watches usually have one thing in common – a design that manages to be simple in details but sophisticated in appearance at the same time. And while the timepieces listed above do provide numerous excellent options for you to consider, they are but a horological drop of water in the vast lake of dress watches available in the market.