Top watch brands for women

In an industry dominated by men, it might surprise you to learn that the origins of wristwatches are actually inextricably tied to the fashion sensibilities of women… 

During the 19th century, as men relied on pocket watches, women took a different approach, wearing watches designed as brooches, around their necks and waists. However, Breguet claims it revolutionised this tradition by crafting the initial women’s wristwatch. 

Its innovative timepiece – a pocket watch fastened to a bracelet -was tailored specifically for Caroline Murat, the Queen of Naples.  There is documented evidence of a commission made on 8th June 1810, where Breguet was tasked to design a ‘repeater watch for bracelet’. 

It marked a pivotal moment, completely altering how women incorporated watches into their attire. As the late 1800s approached, women’s wristwatches transcended their regal origins, becoming not only popular among royalty but also a mainstream accessory for commoners..

Today there are certainly a group of visionary watch brands with their fingers on the pulse, deliberately crafting timepieces with a keen eye on the female aesthetic. 

Without further ado, here are our top watch brands for women:

Rolex

Rolex offers a range of women’s watches, including the iconic Rolex Datejust and Rolex Pearlmaster, known for their timeless designs and precision.

But our favourite Rolex offering for women is the Lady-Datejust: This is a smaller and more feminine version of the Datejust, designed specifically for women. It features the same classic design elements and comes in various combinations of metals and dials.

We have a pre-owned 26mm Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust Lady in stainless steel and with an 18ct yellow gold case. It offers a gorgeous fluted bezel, champagne dial set with 10 diamond-dot hour markers. A date indicator features at 3 o’clock. This one comes complete with its original box and paperwork.

Patek Philippe

Patek Philippe is renowned for its exquisite and high-end timepieces, often featuring intricate designs and complications. They have a variety of elegant options for women.

The Nautilus reference 7118 is a beautiful watch for a woman who wants to show off her style but stay true to her feminine side. We say this is the female version of the very famous Nautilus 5711 steel watch, one of the most coveted steel sports watches in the world.

With a case of 35mm, it’s small enough for everyday wear without being too bulky or heavy on  the wrist. This stainless steel timepiece features a sapphire crystal case back to show off the self-winding mechanical Caliber 324 S C.

Available in three dial colours – blue, silvery opaline and smoke gray, it is a glorious watch with wave embossing too.

Cartier

Cartier is famous for its classic and elegant women’s watches, such as the Cartier Tank and Ballon Bleu, which are celebrated for their timeless style.

A favourite of Kate Middleton, The Princess of Wales, is the ‘Ballon Bleu de Cartier’. 

Debuting in 2006, this timepiece is meticulously created from stainless steel, with an inconspicuous clasp-fastening bracelet.

The name ‘Ballon Bleu de Cartier’ originates from its gracefully rounded case, evoking the image of an inflated balloon. 

Adorned with an elegant silver dial featuring black Roman numerals and Cartier’s iconic blue steel sword-shaped hands, this exquisite watch transcends generations, making it a great choice of heirloom to hand down.

Audemars Piguet

Audemars Piguet offers women’s watches with a combination of luxury and sportiness. The Royal Oak and Royal Oak Offshore collections are among their notable pieces.

Its most iconic model is the Royal Oak, designed in the early ’70s by Gérald Genta, with the ladies version following in 1976 by female designer Jacqueline Dimier.

We love this one – crafted in rose gold with a 33mm case, the watch exudes sporty chic elegance.

This Royal Oak features a chocolate dial, with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and a solid case back. It’s water resistant to 50 meters.

Need expert advice?

These brands vary in terms of design, price range, and features, so it’s essential to explore their collections to find the one that best suits your personal style and preferences. 

When selecting from the top watch brands for women,  consider factors like your budget, the type of watch movement, materials, and specific features that are important to you

Need more help? Our experts can tell you more about the top watch brands for women. Make an appointment with Luxe Watches today.