The Best Minimalist Watches for Men in 2016

Watches add distinction to great outfit. Versatility, however, is one of the most alluring elements most gents look for in a staple watch. The best way to find an adaptable timepiece is to search for minimalism. They were invented to tell time but let’s face it, watches these days can be valued more for their aesthetics than their activity. And why shouldn’t they be? Simplistic, classic and timeless pieces are what you should look out for. Below we recap ten best minimalist watches for men that will ensure you get the most out of your next time-telling purchase.

1. Mondaine Classic

Mondaine has created a minimalist watch; their Classic model is certainly eye-catching with its distinctively bold hands. The Swedish brand describes this timepiece as “straightforward”, with an unadorned case shape and sapphire crystal. The colour combinations of the Classic model are also incredibly versatile, making pairing this watch with different pieces very easy. Black, white with touches of cherry red, the timepiece is an ode to nineties style. The aesthetic is also fun and boyish, making it perfect for casual wear.

2.Tsovet JPT-PW36

Tsovet’s JPT-PW36 was designed “with the purist in mind”. Created in Japan, the colours of this watch are striking yet still classic. Tsovet has combined white indexing with a mint-green second hand that contrasts perfectly against the black dial. The overall aesthetic is masculine and athletic, making it a perfect everyday watch. The packaging of the watch is also refined; it comes in a canvas pouch and presentation box.

3. Shinola S0100026

Green and tan, this Shinola model is perfect for layering and complementing classic colours and prints. The battery runs on EOL technology, and it also features a double curve sapphire crystal. Three hands and a 41mm case size also make this a great option for practicality. We would recommend this pick for the gentleman who prefers a minimalistic design with a twist.

4. Junghans Max Bill Quartz

German brand Junghans have kept things simplistic and stylish with the sleek Max Bill Quartz. The model is water resistant and boasts a calfskin strap with a stainless steel buckle. Not only splash proof, but the Max Bill Quartz also features convex hard Plexiglass with Sicralan coating. The watch face also has sunray brush dark grey, minute track and hands with environmentally friendly luminous substance. The date function is also handy and fits in with the minimal aesthetic of the timepiece. One of our more modern picks, this Junghans model is great for corporate wear and casual days alike.

5. Daniel Wellington Classic St Mawes 36mm

The Daniel Wellington Classic St Mawes 36mm is a slim model, with a simple round dial and refined casing. The brown strap is the perfect colour for different tonal combinations, and it complements the rose gold hands and edge of the watch dial perfectly. Is rose gold not your thing? Luckily, this watch also comes in a version with silver finishes. The dial is also simple and won’t date, with minimalist numerals, and eggshell white colouring is true to the identifiable aesthetic of the recognisable Daniel Wellington brand.

6. Timex Easy Reader Grande

The Timex Easy Reader Grande is the epitome of minimal style. Timex appropriately describes it as gentlemanly. A polished stainless steel case, white dial and Indiglo that lights up the dial make for a timeless watch that works for men of all ages. The Easy Reader Grande is also 30 metres water resistant, functions with quartz movement, has a genuine leather strap and also comes with the Timex Originals 2-year guarantee.

7. Uniform Wares M37

Instantly recognisable with its modern lugless case design, the Uniform Wares M37 is a beautifully Swiss made, modernist model. The strap on this timepiece is an adjustable buffed cordovan leather strap in black with pin-buckle fastening. Mirror-polished aluminium hands, water resistant up to 50m and markers in gunmetal-ton contribute to making this a durable watch for men on the go.

8. Skagen Holst – Ancher

Described by the brand as a “subtly sophisticated statement ”, the Skagen Holst Ancher is without a doubt a minimalistic and bold watch. A slim profile and soft leather black strap contribute to the understated appeal of this model. With a chronograph 60 and 30-second timer, date keeper, cobalt dial and silver finishes provide the versatility that makes its styling timeless.

9. Farer Barnato

The Farer’s Barnato GMT watch named after one the greatest female adventurers and pilots of all time; Diana Walket. You will appreciate the Barnato’s ability to reconcile classic design with bright colours. Swiss made with date window, rhodium-plated hands, genuine bronze coated crown, domed sapphire-coated scratch-resistant mineral crystal glass make this timepiece a worthy buy.

10. The Fifth New York Classic Brooklyn

One of our more unique picks, the New York Classic Brooklyn is a great piece for gents who are into monochrome style. Vivid and bold, this watch comes with a black sandblasted case and polished gunmetal grey indexing. The strap is also interchangeable in both stitch black or suede options. Another novel touch? The standout Roman numeral “V” that is distinct from the other numbers. As the brand says, the devil is in the detail.