Swapping gifts with your betrothed is a common wedding day tradition. And when it comes to gifts for him, handwritten notes, cufflinks, or fine bottles of Scotch are all fantastic options.
But one gift in particular leads the pack: a handsome watch. Timepieces rank as the favored present because they occupy a rare sentimental sweet spot: romantic and masculine, personal and impressive.
That said, finding the perfect watch for your husband-to-be is an overwhelming process. There are so many choices to make, from the style to the components, all of which influence the final price. No clue where to begin? Fear not, we’ve rounded up our favorite watch styles for every budget to wow your groom on the Big Day.
UNDER $2,000
Omega Seamaster 300 Stainless Steel Automatic 41mm Watch, $1,790
The Seamaster is a linchpin in any timepiece collection, making it the ideal gift for your budding watch collector fiancé.
Bell & Ross “BR 123” Stainless Steel Vintage Strap Watch, $1,990
For all its classic touches, this watch, with its cream-colored face, does not take itself too seriously. It’s a subtle way for your man to showcase his fun-loving personality via his personal style.
Tag Heuer Carrera Twin Time WV2116-0 Stainless Steel 39mm Watch, $1,914
If you two plan on high-tailing it from the reception to your honeymoon, help get him in the mindset of sandy beaches and post-wedding R&R. This Tag Heuer watch features a dual time zone so he can pre-set it for island time.
$2,000 – $5,000
Rolex Submariner 14060 Watch, $4,995
The truth is: every man dreams of owning a Rolex Submariner. But to receive on one his wedding day? Well his heart just may burst.
IWC “Classic Pilot’s Chronograph Automatic” Stainless Steel Watch, $4,090
With a sporty face and a refined alligator band, this IWC wristwatch is perfect for your stylish guy who is as at ease in a sports bar as he is at a black tie event.
Breitling Colt A13388 Blue Dial Stainless Steel Automatic Chronograph 44mm Watch, $3,650
A true conversation starter, this statement-making Brietling is nice and weighty. Your soon-to-be husband will appreciate its solid feel every time he wears it.
$5,000 AND ABOVE
Cartier Calibre W7100037 Stainless Steel & Leather 42mm Watch, $5,000
If you envision him wearing your gift down the aisle—and everywhere from this day forward—opt for this romantic, beautifully classic, quintessential timepiece.
Rolex Datejust II 116334 Automatic Rhodium Dial Stainless Steel 41mm Watch, $7,290
To truly impress him—and any envious onlookers who are sure to take note—score the future Mr. a Rolex Datejust. This new arrival to the Datejust collection is bigger, more impressive and more coveted than ever.
Panerai Luminor PAM 423 Stainless Steel Manual 47mm Men’s Watch, $6,699
This is for the guy who adores timepieces. A watch collector’s watch, the Panerai Luminor has a crystal caseback to showcase its intricate components.