Key takeaways
- Start with the jewellery and accessories you already wear.
- Silver tends to suit cooler skin tones; gold tends to suit warmer skin tones.
- Two-tone watches work with both silver and gold jewellery.
- The dial colour changes the look as much as the case colour.
Silver or gold is one of the first choices you make when buying a watch, and one of the most personal. There is no wrong answer, but a few simple guidelines can help you choose a watch you will love wearing every day.
In this guide
Start with what you already wear
The easiest rule: match the jewellery you wear most. If your rings, chains and earrings are mostly silver, a silver watch will feel natural. If you mostly wear gold, choose gold. Your watch then becomes part of one consistent look.
Silver or gold for your skin tone
A common guideline is to look at the veins on the inside of your wrist:
- Bluish veins often mean cool undertones, which pair beautifully with silver and steel.
- Greenish veins often mean warm undertones, which pair beautifully with gold and rose gold.
- A mix of both means neutral undertones: almost any metal works for you.
Treat this as a starting point, not a rule. If you love how a colour looks on you, wear it.
Silver watches
Silver and stainless steel watches are versatile, modern and easy to wear with anything, from a suit to jeans. They are a safe choice for a first watch or a watch for every day. See the Caspian, Forge and Nassau, which are available in silver tones.
Gold watches
Gold watches feel warm, classic and confident. They work especially well with earthy colours, cream, navy and black. For women, petite gold watches like the Gracie and Calista add an elegant finishing touch.
Rose gold watches
Rose gold has a softer, warmer glow than yellow gold. It stands out without being loud. The Voyager and Atlas come in rose gold tones.
Two-tone watches
Can't decide? A two-tone watch combines two metals, so it pairs easily with both silver and gold jewellery. It is a smart choice if you like to mix metals.
Don't forget the dial
The dial colour changes the whole look. A silver case with a blue or green dial feels fresh and modern; a gold case with a black dial feels bold and classic. Browse our watches by colour to see what catches your eye.
Silver, gold and in between
Quick guide
| If you… | Choose |
|---|---|
| Mostly wear silver jewellery | Silver or stainless steel |
| Mostly wear gold jewellery | Gold |
| Want something soft and warm | Rose gold |
| Like to mix metals | Two-tone |
| Want one watch for everything | Silver with a classic dial |
Explore our men's watches and women's watches in every finish. Not sure how to style it? Read How to wear a watch.
Keep reading: gold watches for men, two-tone watches, what is a dress watch? and how to choose an affordable watch that looks expensive.
Frequently asked questions
Can you wear a gold watch with silver jewellery?
Yes, mixing metals is common today. A two-tone watch makes the combination look intentional.
Is a silver or gold watch more versatile?
Silver is often seen as the easiest everyday choice, but gold works just as well when it matches your style and accessories.
Which watch colour suits a warm skin tone?
Gold and rose gold usually complement warmer skin tones, but personal style matters most.
