How to Choose a Watch as a Gift (for Him or Her)

DIFFRNT Imperial watch in an open dark green gift box with a cream ribbon

Guides · 2 min read

Key takeaways

  • Look at the style, colours and jewellery they already wear.
  • Pick a style: classic, modern, sporty or elegant.
  • Check their wrist size, or choose a classic size if you are unsure.
  • Not sure what they would like? A DIFFRNT E-Gift Card lets them choose.
  • Every DIFFRNT watch comes with a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee.

A watch is one of the most personal gifts you can give. It is worn every day and often kept for years. But how do you choose the right one for someone else? Follow these five steps.

Step 1: Look at what they already wear

Pay attention to their jewellery and style. Do they wear silver or gold? Do they dress classic, casual or sporty? Do they already own a watch, and what does it look like? These clues tell you more than any trend.

Need help choosing a colour? Read Silver or gold watch? How to choose.

Step 2: Pick a style

  • Classic and smart: a dress watch or clean round watch, like the Nassau.
  • Modern and versatile: an integrated bracelet watch, like the Caspian or Lyra.
  • Sporty and active: a sport watch or a dive watch.
  • For someone who loves mechanics: an automatic or skeleton watch.
  • Elegant and minimal: a petite watch, like the Calista or Thea.

Want to learn more about each style? See Different types of watches.

Step 3: Choose the right size

Size matters more than most people think. As a simple guide, many men's watches are between 38 and 44 mm, and many women's watches between 25 and 36 mm. If the person has a small or large wrist, adjust accordingly. Our guide What size watch should I get? has a full size chart.

Step 4: Think about the fit

A metal bracelet can be adjusted by removing links, so you do not need to know their exact wrist size in advance. Add a Watch Adjustment Tool so they can get the perfect fit at home, or send them our guide How to remove watch links at home.

Step 5: Make it a moment

Presentation makes a gift feel special. Our Premium DIFFRNT Box is made to store a watch or give it as a gift. For someone who owns several watches, a leather watch roll or a watch case for eight watches is a thoughtful extra.

Not sure? Give an e-gift card

Finding the perfect watch for someone else is not always easy. With a DIFFRNT E-Gift Card, they choose the watch or accessory they like best. Pick an amount from $10 to $150, add a personal message, and choose the date it arrives in their inbox. No wrapping or shipping needed.

Let them choose

Delivered by email, from $10 to $150.

Good to know

  • Every DIFFRNT order comes with a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee. See our refund policy for the conditions.
  • Order in good time before a birthday or holiday, and check the delivery times in our shipping policy.

Gift ideas at a glance

For Idea
Him, classic Nassau or Valois
Him, modern Caspian or Fortuno
Him, watch lover Spine or N948
Her, elegant Calista or Venoria
Her, modern Lyra
Collector Watch case for eight watches
Not sure yet E-Gift Card

Browse all men's watches, women's watches or our best-sellers.

Frequently asked questions

What watch should I buy as a gift?

Start with the style they already wear. A classic stainless steel watch is a safe choice for most people.

What if I don't know which watch they would like?

Give a DIFFRNT E-Gift Card. It is delivered by email and they can use it on any watch or accessory on d-iffrnt.com.

What if the bracelet is too big?

Most metal bracelets can be shortened by removing links. Our guide on removing watch links shows you how.

Can a watch gift be returned?

Yes. Every order comes with our 30-Day Money Back Guarantee. See our refund policy for the conditions.

Back to blog