Key takeaways
- Certain design details make a watch look high-end: integrated bracelets, fluted bezels, skeleton dials and rich dial colours.
- Stainless steel and a well-fitted bracelet matter as much as the design.
- All picks below are under $150.
- Every DIFFRNT order comes with a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee.
Some design details make a watch look high-end. The good news: you do not need a luxury budget to wear them. Here are seven styles with that look, each one available for under $150.
In this guide
1. The integrated bracelet
A bracelet that flows seamlessly into the case is one of the most popular looks in watches today. It looks sculpted and sleek on the wrist.
Our picks: the Caspian ($79.99), the slim Fortuno ($79.99) and, for women, the Lyra ($79.99).
2. The fluted bezel
A ridged bezel catches the light from every angle and gives a watch a jewellery-like finish. Paired with a sunburst dial, it is a true dress-watch look.
Our picks: the Santos ($129.99), with day and date windows and many dial colours, or the Arabic Santos ($149.99), with Arabic numerals.
3. The skeleton dial
An open dial that shows the movement at work has long been a showcase of mechanical watchmaking. It is a conversation piece on the wrist.
Our picks: the Spine ($149.99) and the Prince Oak ($149.99), both with an automatic movement.
4. The two-tone bezel
A sporty bezel in two colours gives a watch a bold, recognisable look that works with casual and smart outfits.
Our pick: the Imperial ($129.99), in five colourways.
5. The rich dial colour
Deep green, ocean blue and black dials add depth and look more refined than plain white. A textured or sunburst finish makes the colour come alive in the light.
Our picks: the Caspian in Emerald and the Baretta ($129.99) in Ocean.
6. The slim two-tone watch
Silver and gold together look classic and expensive, especially in a slim case, and go with both silver and gold jewellery.
Our pick: the Venoria ($79.99) in Sterling Gold, only 8 mm thin.
7. The petite gold watch
A small gold watch on a slim bracelet has a vintage, jewellery-like elegance that never goes out of style.
Our picks: the Calista ($79.99) and the Tyla ($119.99).
The high-end look
How to make it look even more expensive
- Make sure the bracelet fits snugly: see How to remove watch links at home.
- Choose the right size for your wrist: What size watch should I get?
- Keep it clean and match your metals. More tips in How to choose an affordable watch that looks expensive.
Frequently asked questions
Which watch styles look the most expensive?
Integrated bracelets, fluted bezels, skeleton dials, two-tone metal and rich dial colours are all associated with high-end watches.
Can a watch under $150 look luxurious?
Yes. Design, stainless steel, a good fit and a clean watch make the biggest difference to how expensive a watch looks.
Is an automatic watch more luxurious than quartz?
Automatic watches are traditionally associated with classic watchmaking, while quartz is more accurate and lower maintenance. Read Automatic vs quartz for the differences.
Can I return a watch?
Every DIFFRNT order comes with a 30-Day Money Back Guarantee. See our refund policy for the conditions.
