Push tradition aside and propose to your partner with an engagement watch instead of a ring. For some couples, this type of watch is a thoughtful companion piece to a bride-to-be’s engagement ring. While for others, it serves as a practical alternative to a ring. Whatever your reasoning is, a watch adds a unique twist to a proposal. Anyone can give or receive an engagement watch, so we have created this guide to explain to you what these watches are as well as recommend some of our favourite pieces. Keep reading to find out more!
What is an Engagement Watch?
An appealing alternative to the traditional diamond ring, more and more couples are opting to propose with a watch. From crystal-set pieces to vintage-inspired designs, there’s an engagement watch that suits every style and budget.
In simple terms, this type of timepiece is given instead of a ring when proposing. However, it is important to make sure that your partner would prefer to have a watch because of its unique nature. If you weren’t the one to pop the question, but want a romantic gesture to show your partner how much they mean to you, you can also gift an engagement watch post-proposal.
These watches can be worn every day and make a sentimental piece to pass down through generations. Although a ‘diamond is forever’, a well-constructed watch lasts much longer. Hence a watch is a great alternative to propose with instead of a ring. Watches also make a great choice for people who have ‘hands-on’ jobs as a ring will most likely get in their way.
Most importantly, you do not need a reason to propose with a watch. It’s a fun and practical alternative to the typical engagement ring which you can wear for years to come. Just remember to pick a watch that your partner will treasure, not one that you think you should be getting.
Engagement Watches for Women
Herbelin Art Deco | Stainless Steel Bracelet | Silver Dial 17478B08
If your partner loves all things vintage, this Herbelin is the perfect watch to propose with. Its rectangular stainless steel case measures 20.3mm, so is perfect for petite wrists. Enhancing the classic appearance of this model, Roman numerals are featured on the silver dial. For optimal durability, the dial is fitted with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. Continuing the minimalist approach, the watch is secured on the wrist with a stainless steel bracelet. With a reliable quartz movement and water resistance of up to 50 metres, this Herbelin is a sophisticated choice for those wanting to propose with a watch. Its neat and sober design perfectly captures the vintage Art Deco aesthetic.
Fossil Ring Watch (15mm) White Dial / Stainless Steel Expansion Band ES5245
This model combines the design of a ring with the display and functionality of a watch. At its centre is a white sunray dial adorned with silver-tone baton indices. In addition, the dial features a simple two-hand design with silver-tone hour and minute hands. For a seamless appearance, the 15mm stainless steel case and bezel integrate into the band of the ring. Mineral crystal protects the dial, so the levels of durability are good. Completing the design is a stainless steel expansion band; it is designed to fit many different ring sizes. A quartz movement powers this ring watch and its water-resistance of up to 50 metres makes it a great option for day-to-day wear. Let this ring watch do all the talking, after all, it will certainly grab someone’s attention.
LONGINES | Flagship | Women’s 26mm Two Tone | Swiss Automatic L42743217
Want to match with your partner? Then this Longines model is the perfect watch to propose with. The white dial with black painted Roman numeral hour markers gives a classic feeling to the otherwise modern design. The elegant feminine design is accentuated by the 26mm round stainless steel case coated with yellow PVD; it complements the male model (L49743217) perfectly. To ensure optimal durability, the dial is encased by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal coated with several anti-reflective layers on the underside. A two-tone stainless steel bracelet makes the sophisticated model stand out while guaranteeing continued comfort for the wearer. The bracelet is secured with a triple safety folding clasp and a push-piece opening mechanism. An automatic movement with a 45-hour power reserve powers the watch, it can be enjoyed through the sapphire crystal exhibition case back.
The minimal complications on the dial mean that this Flagship model is suitable for any special occasion. Hence is a great choice for an engagement watch.
Engagement Watches for Men
Citizen Men’s | Eco-Drive | White Dial | Brown Leather Strap BM7463-12A
If your partner appreciates classic timepieces, then this Citizen is a great engagement watch. The white dial is adorned with gold-tone baton indices and hands alongside a date aperture at the 3 o’clock position. Delivering a timeless look, a 40mm gold-tone stainless steel case frames the dial and a strong mineral crystal protects it. A brown leather strap with a pin buckle secures the watch to the wrist. Not only does it provide great comfort to the wearer but it also adds to the watch’s classic design. This watch is water resistant up to 50 metres, so it is both suitable and practical for everyday wear.
As well as this, an Eco-Drive movement powers the watch. This technology powers the watch using both natural and artificial light. It removes the need for the watch to be charged or have the batteries replaced, so is a great option for those who lead busy lifestyles. Whether you propose with this model or gift it before your wedding ceremony, it is a great engagement watch for those who like classic yet practical timepieces.
Wenger Attitude Black Dial Black Silicone Strap 01.1541.127
Designed to be sporty and precise, this Wenger model keeps up with the demands of daily wear. The black dial features large Arabic numerals and Super-LumiNova-coated hands. In addition, red details provide contrast to the dark dial and make it easier to keep track of time. For added functionality, there is a date and day aperture at the 3 o’clock position. As well as this, the inside ring of the dial showcases the Arabic numerals in their 24-hour form and the bezel shows the time in 5 minute intervals. A 42mm stainless steel case frames the dial while a sapphire-coated mineral crystal protects it. Adding to the watch’s contemporary design, it is finished with a black silicone strap with white topstitching. With a Swiss-made quartz movement and water resistance of up to 100 metres, this Wenger model makes the perfect engagement watch for any sporty man.
Elliot Brown Bloxworth Quartz Chronograph (44mm) Racing Green Sunray Dial / Bi-Colour Stainless Steel Bracelet 929-017-B14
This model features a deep racing green sunray dial and contrasting gold sub-dials. For optimal readability, the hour, minutes, seconds hands and hour markers are coated with C3 green Super-LumiNova. As well as this, the external unidirectional rotating bezel features Super-LumiNova markings from 0-20. Housing the dial design is a 44mm marine-grade 316L stainless steel case and an anti-reflective coated sapphire crystal protects the dial. Aided by its triple-sealed knurled 6.5mm crown and bolt-down case back with oversized seals, this model has a water resistance of up to 200 metres (20 bar). The watch is finished with a durable brushed solid 3-link stainless steel bi-colour bracelet. It complements the bi-colour accents on the bezel, crown and pushers; a first for Elliot Brown. The bracelet also comes with a micro-adjustable extension clasp and features a luminous engraved EB logo.
Designed for those who like a little more function, this model adds a touch of luxury to the classic chronograph. While its purpose is a dive watch, it is also a great engagement watch; especially for individuals who spend time in the dark or even underwater.
What did you think of our guide on what is an engagement watch? Are you now considering proposing to your partner with a watch rather than a ring? Let us know in the comments!
