Watches

How to Choose a Watch

Start with the size of the watch face and how it sits on your wrist. A smaller dial, around 28 to 34mm, reads classic and understated. A larger face makes more of a feature and holds its own under a sleeve. If you're not sure which way to go, a narrower wrist usually carries a smaller case better.

Then the strap, which changes the whole feel of the watch. Mesh is sleek and slides to fit any wrist. Leather is softer and only looks better as it wears in. A steel bracelet is the most solid of the three and the most polished to look at. A few styles take interchangeable straps, so a single watch can move from desk to dinner.

Metal is the last call and the simplest. The safe move is to match the watch to the jewellery you already wear most days. A silver-toned case and strap sit naturally next to your sterling silver. A gold-plated finish does the same for warmer, gold-toned pieces. Mixing the two is fine once you've got an eye for it, though matching never looks wrong.

Watch Styles Across Our Brands

Olivia Burton watches are the anchor here, a brand whose whole look is built on nature. Bees and florals turn up throughout, alongside butterfly motifs and mother-of-pearl dials, in vintage-leaning designs that feel closer to jewellery than tech. Mesh and leather straps are the signature, often in soft gold and blush tones.

Nomination watches take a cleaner, more contemporary line, with slim steel cases and crystal-set Paris dials. Thomas Sabo watches add a more detailed, slightly gothic signature, whilst MESH Jewellery keeps things pared back and minimal. Between them the range runs from understated everyday watches to pieces with real presence.

Watches FAQs

What size watch should I choose?

Women's watch cases usually range from about 28mm to 40mm across the dial. Around 28 to 34mm reads classic and suits slimmer wrists. Anything from 36mm up makes more of a statement. The quickest guide is your own wrist width, since a narrower wrist tends to carry a smaller case better.

Mesh, leather or steel bracelet strap, which is best?

It comes down to look and feel rather than quality. A mesh strap is smooth and fully adjustable, so it fits closely and suits most wrists. Leather is warmer and more casual, and it softens with wear. A steel bracelet is the most durable and the most formal of the three.

Some watches here take interchangeable straps, so you can change the look without changing the watch.

Are these watches waterproof?

Most fashion watches, including the ones here, are splash-resistant rather than made for swimming. They cope with rain and handwashing, but they shouldn't be worn in the shower, pool or sea, since heat and prolonged water can damage the movement and seals over time. Check the individual product page for a water-resistance rating before assuming a watch can go underwater.

Do the watches run on a battery?

Yes, these are quartz watches, which run on a small battery rather than winding or automatic movement. Quartz keeps very accurate time and needs little upkeep beyond a battery change every couple of years, which any jeweller or watch shop can do. Each watch arrives with its battery fitted and ready to wear.

Which watch makes a good gift?

A watch is a strong gift because it gets worn daily and lasts for years, which makes it feel considered. If you're unsure of someone's taste, a mesh or steel strap in a neutral silver or gold tone is the safest bet, since it goes with most wardrobes. It's also worth checking they don't already wear one on the same wrist out of habit.

Can a watch be gift wrapped and delivered quickly?

Yes. Add gift wrapping at checkout for £4.95 and the watch arrives ready to give. Standard tracked delivery is free on orders over £45 and takes two to five working days, or choose Royal Mail Special Delivery for guaranteed next working day delivery, £6.95, on weekday orders placed before 3pm.