While we all think we know what a dress watch is, the reality may differ. A dress watch need not be a 34mm slim gold model with a delicate leather strap. It could be a simple Rolex Oyster Perpetual in stainless steel or a vintage Omega Seamaster. It's all about where and when you would wear the watch, which genuinely defines whether it's a dress watch.
So, with that in mind, here are our top suggestions for dress watches that are suitable for all formal occasions and currently available through WatchGecko.
Geckota Pioneer Aurora Mechanical Watch
Geckota Pioneer on Simple Handmade Italian Leather Watch Strap - Credit WatchGecko
- Regular price
- £68.00
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- £68.00
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- Regular price
- £68.00
- Regular price
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- Sale price
- £68.00
- Unit price
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- Regular price
- £68.00
- Regular price
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- Sale price
- £68.00
- Unit price
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Bringing together Geckota's Pioneers and Chronotimer Auroras, this Pioneer Aurora boasts a stunning sunburst Aqua dial that casts it firmly into the dress watch genre. The watch is presented in a Geckota branded watch case. It comes with a customizable choice of a sophisticated Highley or V-Stitch leather strap and a tropical-style rubber strap for added versatility.
Assembled in a solid 316L marine-grade stainless steel case, the Pioneer is powered by a venerable NH35 movement. The Aurora Aqua is a sleek and eye-catching watch that would look great on any occasion, casual or formal. The true testimony of a fine dress watch.
Nodus Retrospect III Automatic Dive Watch
Nodus Retrospect III - Credit Nodus
The Retrospect III, like all Nodus, is designed and assembled in Los Angeles. While it fits into Nodus' dive category, the Salmon Sky dial of this distinct model allows it to hold a place in the dress watch camp also. In every measurable way, this watch is a fine dress watch with sophisticated angles and soft colour palates.
The Retrospect III has a signature inward-sloping bezel protected from damage by a matte DLC insert while drawing the eye into the aggressive and highly legible dial. A slimmed-down case adds to the dress watch's appearance, meaning that the Retrospect III is truly a watch for all occasions.
Geckota Ocean-Scout Dive Watch
Geckota Ocean-Scout Dive Watch - Credit WatchGecko
The Geckota Ocean-Scout is a genuinely versatile watch; it was designed from the ground up to be just that. However, the special Sienna Brown Gold edition is definitely more dress than "tool".
Drawing inspiration from the rich pigments of our Earth, ranging from golden reddish tones to deep warm browns, the Sienna Brown is paired with a luxurious leather and versatile nylon strap.
Despite its affluent appearance, the Sienna Brown in Gold is machined from 316L marine-grade stainless steel. The removal of crown guards pays homage to classic dive watches, and the anti-reflective sapphire box crystal further enhances the vintage aesthetic. The case between the lugs has been shaped to accommodate steel and leather straps, with particular attention paid to how a nylon strap fits around a watch. A 60-minute diving bezel reinforces the watch's 200m water resistance capability.
Powering the Ocean-Scout is an automatic Miyota 9039 movement, which falls within Miyota's Premium line. This competent unit offers 24 Jewels, Para Shock protection, a power reserve of 42 hours and an expected accuracy of between -10 to +30 seconds per day. There are only 25 pieces available in this beautiful edition.
Super Squale Diver's Watch
Super Squale Diver's Watch - Credit WatchGecko
With a reduced case of 38mm and a striking grey appearance, this particular would be an ideal alternate dress watch, especially as it comes equipped with a fine colour-coordinated leather strap and has Odld Radium Super Luminova.
Of course, this model is a fully functional Squale which could easily be fitted onto a rubber strap for diving as it benefits from 200m water resistance and Squale's legendary dive heritage. The watch is powered by a Sellita SW 220-1 automatic movement, providing a power reserve of up to 38 hours.
But, the Sunray Grey has an altogether more classy edge to it and was, we feel, destined for more opulent events.
Formex Essence 39 Automatic Chronometer Watch
Formex Essence 39 - Credit WatchGecko
Yes, arguably a tool watch, but one designed with such panache and style that it would make a beautiful dress watch, should you choose to deploy it as such.
The Formex Essence range represents everything we have come to expect from this outstanding brand. They are synonymous with taking watches that should fit neatly into a genre and then fundamentally redesigning them. The reduced size 39mm Essence collection gives the more prominent tool range more sophistication and allows them to be used on many occasions. As with the larger watches, the 39mm are COSC certified, powered by a SW200-1 automatic movement with a power reserve of 38 hours. This is Sellita's highest-grade movement, so it features a Glucydur balance wheel resistant to deformation, magnetic forces, and corrosion.
The dial of this watch also sets it apart from traditional steel watches thanks to the striking finish. The Dégradé colour variance is hand-applied, making this watch worth the finest black tie event.
