Key takeaways
- A gold watch works for men when the rest of the outfit stays simple.
- Full gold makes more of a statement; two-tone is the softer way in.
- A light dial keeps gold classic, a dark dial makes it more modern.
- Match other metals where you can: belt buckle, ring, cufflinks.
Yes, men can wear a gold watch, and it can look excellent. The trick is to let the watch be the one warm accent and keep everything around it simple. Below we cover how to choose one, how it compares with two-tone and what to wear with it.
In this guide
Can men wear gold watches?
Gold watches have been part of men's style for a very long time. What has changed is how they are worn: less as a show of status, more as a confident style choice. A gold watch with a clean dial looks warm and classic, and it is a refreshing change from steel.
If you are deciding between metals in general, start with Silver or gold watch: which should you choose?
Gold or two-tone?
A full gold watch has a gold case and bracelet. It makes the strongest statement and looks best when you match it with other warm metals.
A two-tone watch combines gold with silver-coloured steel. It is the softer way into gold and is easier to wear with silver jewellery. Read more in Two-tone watches: what they are and how to wear them.
Our advice: if you already wear gold rings or a gold chain, go for as much gold as you like. If most of your accessories are silver, or you want one watch for everything, two-tone is the safer choice. The product photos show how much gold each version has.
Choosing the dial colour
The dial changes the whole character of a gold watch:
| Dial | Effect | In-stock examples |
|---|---|---|
| Light (Ice, Pearl) | Classic and dressy | Nassau Gold Ice, Chronometer Gold Ice, Santos Gold Pearl |
| Black (Obsidian, Noir) | Modern, strong contrast | Nassau Gold Obsidian, Prague Gold Obsidian, Santos Gold Noir |
| Green (Emerald) | Rich and vintage | Santos Gold Emerald, Chronometer Gold Emerald, Prague Gold Emerald |
| Blue (Ocean) | Bold, classic contrast | Chronometer Gold Ocean, Prague Gold Ocean, Forge Gold Ocean |
Several models also come in a version simply called Gold, such as the Caspian Gold, Fortuno Gold and Santos Gold, plus the Valois Pure Gold. Check the product photos to see the exact finish and dial of each one.
Our gold watch picks for men
The classic: Nassau ($79.99)
A round watch with a 40 mm 316L stainless steel case and a 22 mm adjustable bracelet. In gold with an Ice dial for a classic look, or with an Obsidian dial for more contrast.
The modern: Caspian ($79.99)
A 40 mm cushion-shaped case on an integrated bracelet, with a horizontally textured gradient dial. The Gold version is a confident, contemporary take on a gold watch.
The dress watch: Santos ($129.99)
A fluted bezel, sunburst dial and day and date windows in a 40 mm stainless steel case. Gold versions include Gold, Gold Pearl, Gold Noir, Gold Emerald and Gold Crimson.
The slim everyday: Fortuno ($79.99)
A 40 mm case on an integrated bracelet, slim at 10 mm, with Gold as one of five versions. Easy to wear under a shirt cuff.
The detailed: Prague ($89.99)
A three-subdial dial layout in a 40 mm case, 10 mm thin, with gold versions in Obsidian, Ocean and Emerald.
The big statement: Chronometer ($89.99)
A chronograph-style dial in a 44.5 mm 316L stainless steel case, with gold versions in Obsidian, Ocean, Emerald and Ice.
Prefer gold with a day-date? The Brone Gold ($79.99) has day and date at a glance and luminous hands.
Gold watches for men
How to wear a gold watch
- Keep it simple: one gold watch is enough of a statement. Skip the extra bracelets.
- Match your metals: a gold belt buckle, ring or cufflinks tie the look together.
- Choose warm colours: gold looks great with navy, brown, cream, camel, olive and black.
- Dress it down: a gold watch with a white T-shirt and jeans looks relaxed and confident.
More tips in How to match your watch to your outfit.
Keeping a gold watch looking good
Wipe the case and bracelet with a soft, dry cloth after wearing, and store it separately so it does not rub against other watches or jewellery. See How to clean a stainless steel watch.
Frequently asked questions
Can men wear gold watches?
Yes. A gold watch looks warm and classic on men, especially with simple outfits and other warm metals.
Should I choose gold or two-tone?
Choose full gold if you already wear gold accessories. Choose two-tone if most of your accessories are silver or you want one watch for everything.
What dial colour looks best with gold?
A light dial keeps it classic, a black dial makes it more modern, and green or blue add colour. It comes down to your style.
What should I wear with a gold watch?
Navy, brown, cream, camel, olive and black all work well. Keep the rest of your accessories simple.
Can I return a watch?
Every DIFFRNT order comes with a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee. See our refund policy for the conditions.
