What to Know Before You Buy a Gold Watch
If it’s always been a dream of yours to own a gold watch of your very own, then you already know there’s often a lofty price tag attached. So, before you spend your hard-earned cash on a style that’ll find a lifelong home in your jewelry box (and on your wrist), we asked an expert to weigh in on the shopping process.
Coming from the watch department of Christie’s Auction House, a company that’s synonymous with hunting down the most precious and rare timepieces (among other treasures), associate specialist Rebecca Ross advised us that there are a few key guidelines when it comes to luxe watches.
For instance, “Most gold watches from the top brands have always been and are still produced in 18k gold. Recently, 14k gold has become a popular alternative,” she says. “I would suggest being aware of the gold markings as well as any other gold stamps that are usually found on the inside of the watch case.”
Some of Ross’s favorite gold designs come from brands like Rolex, Rado, Omega, and Oris, and specifically rarer, unique designs that usually take a bit more searching to find. “Personally, my favorite shopping is always at quirky and mysterious vintage stores,” she says. “Mainly I spend my time in New York, but the best ones are in the more obscure cities in the world.”
But that’s not to say a passport or thousands of dollars are non-negotiables to own a watch that speaks to you. “It’s cliché, but I always suggest to my clients to choose what speaks to them most,” says Ross. “A watch isn’t just a piece of jewelry—it’s something you will want to admire while wearing and hopefully keep for many years and generations to come.”
With this in mind and along with Ross’s guidance, we did our own hunting and came up with 11 gold watch styles that might just be the one for you. Some follow Ross’s advice regarding karats and brands, but there are also plenty of more affordable options that might not check off every requirement but will feel no less special. Keep scrolling to see for yourself.
This Gucci design just flashes a bit of gold around the watch’s face.
Love the cool color contrast between the tan band, the silver face, and the gold casing.
The weaving of this band is especially pretty.
Trust us: This watch deserves a close-up inspection of all the celestial details.
Clean, simple, classic—this is a purchase to pass down to the next generation.
There’s no denying that the name Rolex carries a special cachet.
Who's your style icon?
Taylor Tomasi Hill
Who are your 5 favorite people to follow on Twitter/Instagram?
@tamumcpherson @lisasaysgah @therealgracecoddington @everyoutfitonsatc @notmynonni
What's the fashion essential you can’t live without?
A leather jacket.
What's your desert island album?
Beyoncé "B'Day." Or pretty much anything Beyoncé.
-
These Under-$30 Accessories From Amazon Will Make Your Outfits 10 Times Cooler
Including those viral drop earrings.
By Ana Escalante
-
I'm Updating My Basics in 2024—These Under-$100 Pieces Are in My Cart
They're basically trend-proof.
By Grace O'Connell Joshua
-
The Sub-$150 Accessory I've Spotted on Every Single It Girl This Year
If it's good enough for Dua Lipa, it's good enough for me.
By Ana Escalante
-
I Wear-Tested 15 Viral Belts and Honestly Think These 5 Are Worth the Hype
It's true.
By Eliza Huber
-
And Now, 5 Elevated Ways to Wear Your Jeans in 2024
Denim devotees, unite.
By Grace O'Connell Joshua
-
After 5 Days in Aspen, I'm Officially Hooked on Western Pieces—5 I'm Loving RN
From cowboy hats to fringe accents.
By Grace O'Connell Joshua
-
I Asked Over 2000 Women Where to Buy the Best White Shirts—They Love These 23
Your definitive guide.
By Elinor Block
-
Here's How French Women Are Styling Their Jeans Right Now
Take note.
By Courtney Falsey