Your Guide to Ladies Watches
- By Harrison Brown
- 16 Apr 2024
For centuries, the watchmaking industry has had their eyes on the men of the world. From pocket watches to dress watches, women’s designs were either completely forgotten or more than lacklustre. It was up to the women to make these necessities fit their own styles. Today, the launch of CHANEL and Olivia Burton has helped propel the prestigious ladies' watches into the mainstream. But how do you know what one is right for you? Our Ladies Watch Buying Guide provides you with all the info you need to find the perfect women's watch. Let’s get into it!
First Ladies Watch
Before we dive into what makes the perfect ladies watch, it’s important to know where they came from. With men being the sole breadwinners, they were the ones with the income to spend on luxurious items such as pocket watches, women were often forgotten.
Not only did women not have the income to purchase extra items, but the clothes of the 1800’s weren't exactly designed for practicality. Without pockets, how were they supposed to keep their timekeepers safe? Women began attaching their timepieces to necklaces, brooches, and bracelets, completely changing the demand for such a luxurious item.
It is said that the first ever ladies watch was created in 1810 by the watchmaking legend Breguet. Created for the Queen of Maples, Caroline Murat, this commission piece was a symbol for both watchmaking brands and women, that timepieces are more than a tool for men, they can be jewellery that enhances a woman’s everyday life.
Breguet's creation of attaching a pocket watch to a bracelet kicked off the revolution of feminine watches. Inspiring brands such as Breitling, Vacheron Constantin, and Longines to begin targeting a more refined clientele.
Things to Consider
When browsing a selection of ladies's watches, it can quickly become overwhelming. With brands and retailers (such as ourselves) throwing industry jargon around like everyone understands what they mean. Below, we explain everything so that even the most green of horologists can pick out the perfect watch to adorn their wrist.
The Movement
The watch movement, also known as the calibre, is what gives the timepiece power. It is essentially the engine of the watch. The mechanism is the heart of the watch, powering all its timekeeping capabilities and ensuring the precision of time. Without this core component, a watch would cease to operate.
Over the years, brands have been fighting to create something new and innovative, and that often leads to new movements. However, there are 3 main movements that you should look out for:
- Quartz Movement
Quartz movements are considered traditional movements. They dominated the industry for decades and, besides from a battery change every once in a while, are rather low maintenance. A quartz movement relies on a battery for its energy, commonly found in basic, functional watches. The battery generates an electrical current that passes through a tiny quartz crystal, causing it to vibrate. These consistent vibrations maintain the movement’s oscillation and propel the motor that advances the hands of the watch.
- Mechanical Movement
As the Quartz crisis hit in the 1970’s and 1980s, many brands were forced to utilise mechanical movements. Mechanical movements are often praised for their quality and craftsmanship, allowing watchmakers to really strut their stuff.
These movements, which are expertly crafted by watchmakers, are made up of a complex web of small parts that work together to power the timepiece. Though the overall shape of mechanical timepieces hasn't altered much over the ages, technological advancements have made it possible to construct intricate details with greater precision.
There are currently 2 types of mechanical movements:
- Automatic Movement: You may hear the term “self-winding”; this also refers to an automatic watch. Renowned for being the most technologically advanced, an automatic movement draws power from the natural movement of the wearer's wrist. Meaning you never have to worry about winding the watch before wearing it as it is constantly working.
- Manual Movement: A manual movement is one of the oldest movements within the industry and is still beloved today. Manual watch movements are named so as they must be wound manually to create enough energy to launch the watch's mainspring.
Today, many watch lovers opt for an automatic movements due to their accuracy and lack of maintenance. They provide a gorgeous display of craftsmanship, as they lack the lag that comes with quartz movements.
The Dial
As you begin to try on different timepieces, you will begin to notice that there are different dial sizes. This has a significant impact on how the watch feels on your wrist. Watches of Switzerland determined that the most common dial size is between 26mm to 46mm.
Remember, the dial size includes the case size, and a larger case means a heavier watch. However, a smaller dial may also make the numerals or indexes harder to see.
The best way to decide what dial works for you is to simply try them on! Visit your nearest Chisholm Hunter store where our team is happy to help find the perfect balance between quality, style, and comfortability.
The Strap
Often a forgotten element, the strap of your chosen watch can make or break your wearing experience. After all, a strap that rubs and chaffs can make the timepiece unbearable.
Unfortunately, timepieces are not like shoes, and they cannot be broken in with wear. That means if a particular strap is causing you discomfort in the store, it is most likely going to be uncomfortable every time you wear it.
There are 3 popular materials used for straps:
- Stainless Steel: Many brands enjoy a cohesive look that will last against scratches and daily wear. Stainless steel is popular option for the office or everyday wear. However, it can also be slightly heavier than fabric straps and can be tricky to get the perfect fit.
- Leather: Leather straps, typically made from alligator, crocodile, or calf depending on the luxuriousness of the brand. These make for a sophisticated look that has the versatility to work with a variety of outfits and occasions.
- NATO: The NATO strap rose to popularity within the British Ministry of Defence due to being flexible, comfortable, and adjustable. Today, the NATO-Strap is a favourite among diving watches and adventurers.
It is becoming more and more popular for brands to releases watches with customisable straps. Allowing you to get more out of your investment and to create a new look depending on your mood, outfit, or plans for the evening!
The Occasion
While the focus is on the timepiece you are potentially going to buy, an external factor which should weigh heavily on your decision is the occasion.
Looking for an everyday dress watch? Then you are going to be looking for something lightweight, stylish, and durable. A practical watch is going to further your investment Your watch should be able to take you from the office to dinner without looking out of place.
Prefer being out in the wild? Sport watches are a popular category among luxury watch brands. Durable, rugged, and designed specifically for the elements of the outdoors, a sports watch will serve you well whether you are hiking mountains or diving into the depths of the ocean.
A luxury watch can make the perfect gift. From gold to titanium, there are plenty of dress watches available to help you show that special someone just how much they mean to you.
7 Best Ladies Watches
Now that we know exactly what to look for in a ladies watch, we can finally get into our 7 best ladies watches. From smart watches to dress watches, we have rifled through our archives to pick out the best ladies' watches for you to choose from or to find inspirations!
1. Raymond Weil Tango Classic Quartz
Raymond Weil may have significantly less time under their belt as luxury watchmakers, but they come out swinging every time. The Raymond Weil Tango Classic Quartz is everything it says on the tin.
Housed in a 30mm stainless steel with yellow gold PVD plating case and matching bracelet, this watch is bold yet practical. A silver dial is paired with a gold plated PVD bezel, enhanced with 6 screws.
The gold-plated hour and minute hands are coated in Super-LumiNova®, providing enhanced readability, even within restricted light.
2. Olivia Burton Gold Vintage Bead
Inspired by the streamline's aesthetics of the Art Deco movements, the Olivia Burton Gold Vintage Bead has a unique simplicity that makes it all the more powerful.
A lightweight 30mm stainless steel case is plated in gold for a vintage look. The gold-plated beaded bracelet is smooth and intriguing, giving this watch a touch of historical elegance.
Remaining cohesive, the gold dial is completed with gold baton indexes and a beaded gold bezel. Available in silver, this watch is simply stunning in its archetype of vintage sophistication. Perfect for a gala or a day of meetings, this Olivia Burton watch is a vision of beauty.
3. Breitling Navitimer Automatic
Breitling is a long-standing brand in the world of luxury watches. Dating back to 1884, the brand is among the greats when it comes to producing incredible timepieces.
The Breitling Navitimer Automatic is the first of many Breitling ladies' watches. The combination of a stainless-steel enclosure and a silver dial bestows a traditional yet sophisticated charm that is bound to attract attention.
The circular dial accentuates the watch’s enduring allure, and the silver hue of the case contributes an additional layer of refinement. Moreover, the watch is designed with a non-screw-locked crown, secured by two gaskets, and a back case that is screwed in, ensuring enhanced robustness.
This timepiece is powered by an automatic mechanical movement, guaranteeing accuracy and dependability in its timekeeping. Its 36mm case diameter makes it an ideal fit for a woman’s wrist, offering an elegant accessory. The watch is also equipped with curved sapphire glass that has been treated to prevent glare from both directions, enhancing its refined appearance while also safeguarding it against scratches.
4. Garmin Venu 3
With the development of the Apple Watch and the Samsung Galaxy Watch, smartwatches have become the new height of luxury. Tracking your steps has never been more important, and making sure you can still connect with those you love most.
Battling their way to the top is Garmin. Producing a whole new meaning to the phrase luxury smartwatch, the Garmin Venu 3 is a wonder to the watchmaking industry.
This timepiece, which is made of fibre-reinforced polymer, has an AMOLED display that is bright and always on, giving vivid images even in direct sunlight. Presented with a pin buckle that firmly secures it to a nude leather strap.
Enjoy beating your personal best at the gym or tackling the highest mountains as the Garmin Venu 3 tracks your heart rate, 15 hours of continuous GPS tracking, and calorie burning. With 7 days of power, you can ensure you never miss a moment with this truly incredible smartwatch.
5. Vivienne Westwood Camberwell
Vivienne Westwood has long since reigned as a prestigious jewellery maker. With their historical stavroforos sphaira, or orb and cross emblem, Vivienne West created waves when first released to the luxury goods market.
Breaking into the luxury watch world, the Vivienne Westwood Camberwell ladies watch is divine. Featuring a classic quartz movement, this timepiece offers accuracy and unique aesthetics.
This watch, a highlight of the Camberwell collection by Vivienne Westwood, captures the quintessential and defiant essence of the brand. Tailored for women, it showcases a round dial that radiates refinement and class. A dark green dial establishes this timepiece as a piece to be reckoned with.
The watch’s elegant analogue display lends a traditional flair, rendering it a perennial piece suitable for any occasion, whether it’s business or leisure. The selection of the case material and colour is meticulously curated to enhance the aesthetic, offering a cohesive and fashionable statement that will seamlessly enhance your wardrobe.
6. Longines Mini DolceVita
Embracing the “la Dolce Vita” is at the core of the Longines Mini DolceVita collection. With delicate, sweet dials, versatile straps, and a diamond-encrusted bezel, this ladies watch collection is refined and elegant.
The Mini DolceVita range remains simple and understated in its beauty. The Longines Mini DolceVita Ladies Watch is powered by a traditional quartz movement, this women's watch makes for the perfect dress watch. A stainless-steel bracelet and case remain durable, while the diamond set bezel gives a touch of lavishness for those special occasions.
The square face shape is reminiscent of the roaring 1920’s making this watch the perfect going out partner.
7. Vacheron Constantin Traditionelle Moonphase
Since opening his first watchmaking workshop in 1755, Jean-Marc Vacheron has been a world-renowned supplier of expertly crafted timepieces. From pocket watches to today's luxury watches, Vacheron Constantin has been a staple within the industry.
And so, it is only fitting that the Vacheron Constantin Traditionelle Moonphase is included on our best ladies' watches list. A classic timepiece with a soft mother-of-pearl dial, and 82 diamond encrusted bezel, this ladies watch is the height of luxury.
Vacheron Constantin are widely sought after for their incredible mechanics. The moonphase mechanism is one of the hardest devices to incorporate into the building of a watch. Yet this watch makes it look easy!
Complete with a grey alligator strap and a rose gold case, you can find yourself being the centre of attention whenever this timepiece adorns your wrist.
Ladies watches are quickly proving themselves to be more than a smaller version of a mens watch. By exploring shapes, weight, and even jewels, watchmakers are quickly coming to the realisation that there is a whole new market to be investigated. From small 26mm dials to masculine 42mm, the possibilities for ladies watches are endless and we have our top favourites picked out to help you find your perfect timepiece!
