Top Watch Trends This Year (2025)

In 2025, the world of watches is blending heritage with innovation, bold aesthetics with subtle elegance, and sustainability with craftsmanship. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just looking for a stylish timepiece, these watch trends are defining the year.

1. Vintage Revival & Smaller Case Sizes

• Watches with inspiration from the ’60s and ’70s are making a major comeback.
• Expect more refined, wearable sizes — many trend pieces now fall between 36mm–39mm, instead of oversized cases. 
  The Watcher Magazine
• This nostalgia trend appeals to both men and women, giving modern timepieces a timeless feel. 

2. Artistic & Hand-Crafted Dials

• Watch dials are becoming canvases for craftsmanship: guilloché engraving, enameling, and micro-painting are rising in popularity. 
  
• These artistic techniques make each watch feel like a miniature work of art — a true luxury. 

3. Vibrant & Colorful Dials

• Bold colors are in: expect dial colors like ice blue, deep green, burgundy, and even pastel gradients. 
  
• Texture and experimental finishes (fumé effects, color transitions) are being used more often to make statements. 

4. Jewelry Meets Timepiece

• Watches are leaning into jewelry territory: gemstone-set bezels, mother-of-pearl faces, and elegant gem artistry are trending. 
  Fashion Week Online
• For women especially, watches are doubling as luxe accessories — not just for telling time. 

5. Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Moves

• Sustainability continues to grow: brands are using recycled metals, vegan leather straps, and solar-powered movements.
• Solar-powered luxury watches are no longer niche — even high-end brands are embracing light-powered mechanisms. 
  Financial Times

6. Unisex & Gender-Fluid Designs

• The boundaries between men’s and women’s watch styles are blurring, with more unisex collections being launched. 
  
• Medium case sizes (around 38–40mm), neutral designs, and versatile straps make these watches wearable for anyone. 

7. Return of Mechanical Timepieces

• After the dominance of smartwatches, there's a notable return to traditional mechanical (automatic or manual) watches. 
  
• This resurgence is fueled by younger collectors who appreciate craftsmanship, heritage, and authenticity. 

8. Statement & Bold Designs

• Expect larger, vibrant chronograph watches with more personality and detail. 
  
• Mesh bracelets (Milanese straps) are also making a comeback — offering a retro yet modern feel. 

Featured Examples (From Accessible to Luxe)

Here are a few representative watches that align with current trends:

• FORSINING Retro Skeleton Mechanical Watch — Skeleton design resonates with the artisan-dial trend.
• Noise ColorFit Victor Smartwatch 2025 — While smartwatches are less dominant, hybrid designs still appeal for their functionality.
• 5atm Sports Smartwatch — For those looking for casual and practical style.

Why These Trends Matter

• Personal expression: Watches are more than just tools — they’re a way to showcase personality, history, and taste.
• Sustainability: Eco-conscious consumers want luxury that’s also responsible.
• Inclusivity: Unisex designs break down gender norms and make watches more accessible.
• Heritage + innovation: Combining traditional craftsmanship with modern technology keeps the industry dynamic and future-forward.