Tortoiseshell is a trend that has never truly died off, and likely never will. As the name implies, the pattern is based on patterns found on a tortoise’s shell. Often this is a marbled mixture of deep and warm browns, sometimes with mottled amber shades throughout. Although what we call ‘tortoiseshell’ refers to a synthetic substitution for it, many ancient cultures such as Ancient Rome, Egypt, and Asia used real tortoiseshell. However, rest assured that this trade was banned in 1973. Tortoiseshell is now simulated in acetate or stained horn, meaning we can enjoy its timeless beauty more ethically. Malleable to any outfit due to its colour scheme, tortoiseshell watches are a trendy accompaniment that can elevate any look. Without further ado, here are our top 5 tortoiseshell women’s watches.
Our Top 5 Tortoiseshell Women’s Watches
All-over tortoiseshell: Nixon Time Teller Acetate Tortoise Black Dial A327-646-00
Diving straight into the deep end, our first contender is this Nixon Time Teller. The all-over tortoiseshell pattern on the bracelet and case is made from acetate and paired with a black dial. Silver-tone hands with matching stick indices give the watch a sleek finish which is tailorable to any style. Additionally, the watch also boasts an impressive water resistance of up to 100 metres and is powered by a quartz movement. The case takes an elegant tonneau shape which measures 40 mm in width. A simple but striking start to our list, the Nixon would make for a great everyday timepiece and allows you to appreciate the beauty of tortoiseshell to the fullest.
Minimalist but mighty: Briston Unisex Clubmaster Chic Beige Acetate Steel With Nato Strap 17536.SA.T.2.NT
Next up is this Briston Clubmaster. A contemporary and clean design, its foregrounding feature is its tortoiseshell acetate case, which is 36 mm wide and 9.2 mm thick. The square case has rounded corners and frames a round white dial. The indices on the Clubmaster alternate between Arabic numerals and batons for a modern twist on the minimalist design. Completing the dial are SuperLuminova silver-tone hour and minute hands, as well as a black seconds hand. A domed mineral crystal protects the dial and gives the watch a water resistance of up to 100 metres. Powered by a Miyota 2035 quartz movement, the watch’s finishing touches include a beige NATO-style nylon strap. Its combination of the sporty and the chic makes this a perfect tortoiseshell contender for someone who’s always on the go.
Maximalist and multifunctional: Michael Kors Lexington Tortoiseshell Dial Gold Stainless Steel Bracelet MK7276
To contrast our previous candidate, this Michael Kors Lexington merges a tortoiseshell dial with a glitzy design. Measuring 38 mm in diameter, the gold-tone case is made of stainless steel. A crystal-set bezel encircles the tortoiseshell dial, which complements the gold-tone Roman numerals and baton indices. But, this model isn’t just a fashion watch. Three gold tone-framed subdials overlay the main dial, which have functions such as a chronograph and a 24-hour indicator. At the 6 o’clock position, there is also a date aperture. To finish the design, a gold-tone stainless steel bracelet secures the watch to the wrist. For those partial to warm tones in their wristwear, this gold and tortoiseshell colour scheme is sure to be a hit.
Petite and pretty: Radley Black Silicone Strap Tortoiseshell Case RY2324
With a tortoiseshell acetate case that measures just 28 mm, this Radley is the tiniest option on our list. Although small in size, the tortoiseshell design’s impact is not. Paired with a smooth black silicone strap and dial, the chunky acetate case is foregrounded in the design. Assorted gold-tone dot indices give the watch a 1960s feel and complement the gold-tone hour, minute, and seconds hands. As with all Radley models, looped to the lugs is a gold-tone Scottie dog mascot charm. Perfect for everyday wear, this Radley model is a charming take on the tortoiseshell trend.
Sleek and simple: Michael Kors Women’s Runway Gold Dial Gold Stainless Steel and Acetate Bracelet MK3710
Finally, last but by no means least is this Michael Kors Runway model. Crafted from gold-tone stainless steel, the case is 28 mm wide and houses a gold dial. Gold-tone hands and baton indices complete this all-over gold design, which is broken up by tortoiseshell detailing. With the rest of the bracelet crafted from gold-tone stainless steel, tortoiseshell acetate replace the centre links. This contrasting gold and tortoiseshell colour scheme adds flair to the model’s simplistic design whilst maintaining its chic style. For those looking for an understated design from a reputable designer brand, the Runway would make an excellent fit.
Have any other favourite tortoiseshell timepieces to compete with our top 5 tortoiseshell women’s watches list? Drop them down below!
