Originally made for soldiers and pilots to use during warfare, dress watches are now regarded as refined and elegant timepieces that are typically worn on formal occasions. The demand for these sleek watches grew post-WW1. The returning soldiers no longer required the added functions on their wristwatches. It was time for them to shift to something more stylish and simple.
The sole purpose of a dress watch is to add elegance to the wrist and complement formal wear. Common occasions to wear a dress watch include weddings, business events and any other formal meetings. However, because of their versatility, they can also be worn for any occasion. With autumn in full swing adding a dress watch to your collection could complement the more casual attire that you’ll be wearing this season. Here are our best men’s dress watches for autumn if you’re looking for a dress watch to tie together your autumnal outfits.
Our Best Men’s Dress Watches for Autumn
Timex Men’s Waterbury Classic (40mm) White Dial / Black Leather Strap TW2W15000
If you are looking to purchase your first dress watch then this Timex model might be the perfect option. This affordable watch has all the components of an elegant dress watch but won’t break your bank account when purchasing. The thin black leather strap and white dial would complement both formal and casual attire. These features make this watch an ideal ‘all-rounder’ watch for the autumn season.
GANT Park Hill III (41.5mm) White Dial / Brown Leather G105006
With autumn, otherwise known as ‘fall’, being such a favoured season in the United States, this Americanised dress watch would be a fitting purchase for anyone wanting to add a new watch to their wardrobe. The brown textured leather strap complements the beautiful gold-tone indices which creates a very autumnal image. This watch would pair perfectly with a semi-casual outfit or even a suit for those formal occasions a dress watch is so commonly known to be worn for.
Seiko ‘Midnight Blue Moon’ Presage Cocktail Time SRPK15J1
If you’re looking for a timeless dress watch to spruce up your business attire then this minimalistic Seiko Presage could be a definite option. This sophisticated watch is part of the larger Presage Cocktail Time series. It has a classic feel and is designed to express the reflection of a ‘Blue Moon’ cocktail from the Star Bar in Tokyo. This beautiful, refined watch would be fitting for those who want to purchase something on the more luxurious end of the spectrum. The colours of this watch are a part of the ‘deep autumn’ colour pallet. This makes it the perfect addition to your wrist for this time of year.
Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Norris (42mm) Blue Dial / Brown Leather Strap 1710549
This contemporary street-style watch is well-suited for those who are looking to add a fashionable dress watch to their collection. A main difference with this watch in comparison to the previous watches mentioned is that it does not have a date window on the dial. Instead, it features the brand’s logo. This watch is extremely affordable and the pattern on the strap provides an element of flair. The timepiece keeps true to the simple yet stylish nature of many classic dress watches.
Frederique Constant Classic Carre | Automatic | Silver Dial | Black Dial FC-303S4C6
This luxury watch showcases an elegant rectangular-shaped case which contrasts those we have recommended previously. The quality black calf leather strap with a crocodile texture emphasises how deluxe this timepiece is. The simplicity of the dial and case represent the minimalism that dress watches are known for. The basic colours of black, white and silver make this a versatile watch that can be worn for many occasions.
What are your thoughts on our recommendations for men’s dress watches mentioned in this article? Would you wear them this autumn? Let us know in the comments below!
