Women have long been quite democratic in their watch-wearing tastes, hence, it is quite common for women to wear or prefer to wear watches that have been traditionally designed for men. This begs some interesting questions about “what is a women's watch?” and “what is a men’s watch?”.
It’s true that strictly speaking, so long as a watch fits a wrist, that means that anyone can wear it. What is known as a women's watch is a timepiece that is specifically designed with feminine aesthetics and is usually downsized in smaller sizes (35-36mm wide). It is also more common for watches marketed towards women to have significant jewellery elements like gemstones and silver/gold plating.
The oversized watch face style is popular in many women's watch lines such as Daniel Wellington and Michael Kors, so it only makes sense that women who want to rock this look are also exploring men's watch lines. We say, as long as the watch is not disproportionate on the wrist, women should go for it and wear whatever watch they wish!
Table of Contents
4 Reasons Why Women Want to Wear Men’s Watches:
1. Movement
While there are many aesthetic and political reasons why a woman would want to wear a men’s watch, there are also less complex, more practical reasons. Many women's watches are quartz, however, watch enthusiasts know that manual or automatic watches are more ideal as they are more reliable, last longer and have a better calibre of movement.
2. Statement Makers
Much like women starting to wear pants in the 1920’s, women wearing large men's watches is a powerful statement. Sure there are women's watches with bright colours and interesting patterns, but there is something strong and eye-catching about a men’s watch that is unbeatable on a woman. For those who want to step out in confidence with a powerful persona, then a men’s watch is a perfect statement.
3. Durability
Unfortunately, women are often left with watches that look and feel more fragile and daintier, which is what gives them the feminine edge. Men’s watches on the other hand are heftier and built to be durable. For those who are paying for a luxury watch, it makes sense why you would prefer to invest in a timepiece that feels well-made and sturdy. While Casio do have their line of Baby-G’s, for women wanting a traditional metal watch, they may struggle to find the same level of toughness in women's ranges.
4. Larger Size
The most obvious reason why a woman would want to wear a men's watch is simply because of its larger size. A bigger face and larger watch size is often considered more aesthetically pleasing and contrasts beautifully with delicate women's accessories like diamond rings, pendant necklaces and chains. Not only this, but a larger watch is generally easier to read!
For women who are in the market for a men’s watch, you should look for watches between 36mm to 40mm. However, watches all the way up to 42mm can look great on many women. This ‘trend’ can hardly be called a fad. It’s a fashion statement that women have been partaking in for years and it isn’t going away anytime soon.
Men’s Watch Ideas for Women By Case Size:
42mm
Harison Sports Mens Watch

$69.50
$139.00
Harison Men's Watch - 42mm Case Size - 8.5mm Case Thickness - Stainless Steel Bracelet - 30 Meters Water Resistant - Mineral Glass - Japanese Movement … read more
38.8mm
Casio AQ230A-2A2 Vintage

$109.00
This Casio Vintage AQ230A-2A2 watch with duo display is versatile, charming, classic, and functional. The piece is so versatile in design that it is sure to complement every occasion. A statement piece that can easily be style up and down.… read more
47.8mm
Seiko Prospex SNJ039P Tropical Lagoon Special Edition

$495.00
$825.00
Step out in an iconic timepiece with the Seiko SNJ039P Tropical Lagoon Special Edition Men’s Watch. The bezel features blue and green backdrops that allow the indices to be legible, framing the watch face perfectly. The dial has a green… read more
44mm
Jag Xavier J2156A

$143.20
$179.00
Made for the classic and modern man this Jag 'Xavier' watch showcases a gold case with a round black dial with gold-tone markings and the date at 3. A wonderful timepiece to add to your collection. • 44mm Case Size… read more