As much as I love a Disney-licensed Hot Topic watch, graduates work hard to get to this part of their lives (dare I say, they put in a lot of time?), and deserve a timepiece to accompany them through their next step. Be it grad school, the start of their career, or a little time to themselves, here are 13 watches that will upgrade every recent grad's look.
A Classic
From menswear inspired metallics to simple leather bands, these classics never go out of style.
Major Grey Ion Plated Tone Bracelet Watch
This monotone grey watch, features a metal wristband that says yes, I'm a sophisticated business woman. Thanks to the framing of gemstones, it also shows you know how to have fun.
Rebecca Minkoff, $195; shop now
Metro Navy Leather Watch
For the grad who is always thinking about happy hour (same), this navy leather strap watch with a rose gold finish uses a cocktail glass replacing the fifth hour. Right now, it's five o'clock everywhere.
Kate Spade, $198; shop now
Rose Gold-Tone Crystal Bangle Analog Watch
I'll never not love anything sparkly. Enter this gold watch, featuring Swarovski crystal accents in the band and a glittering center dial. Add some shine to your life.
Guess, $160; shop now
Swarovski Crystal Accented Strap Watch
If you're looking to switch up the feel of a traditional watch, this blue strap number is the perfect option. With a watch this cute, I don't think you can ever be late.
Juicy Couture, Amazon, $90; shop now
Swarovski Crystal Accented Bracelet Watch
This goes out to all the queens out there. Look down at this watch and never forget the royalty you are.
Juicy Couture, Amazon, $98; shop now
A Smart Watch
Sometimes you need more than time on you side. A smart watch is like a mini computer, offering easy access to the weather, tracking statistics like your sleep patterns and heart rate, and even making phone calls and sending texts.
Apple Watch
This popular watch syncs up with your iPhone, offering tons of features–from monitoring your sleep or heart rate to texting or calling without having to track down your phone–and allows you to swap out straps for a fully customizable look
Apple, Series 3 starting at $199, Series 5 starting at $399; shop now
Black Stainless Steel Scallop Smartwatch 2
For a slightly cheaper alternative to the most recent Apple model, this Kate Spade smart watch can track various activities and make phone calls, among other things. Featuring a more sophisticated, traditional look, this Google-powered watch will pair with your iPhone or Android.
Kate Spade, $335; shop now
Gen 5 Smartwatch Julianna HR
More affordable still, this smart watch, which comes in a variety of colors and with a leather or metal strap, runs on the same Google app as the Kate Spade watch and is compatible with iPhone or Android.
Fossil, $199; shop now
Hybrid Smartwatch HR Charter
Fossil also offers a hybrid smartwatch, featuring the same functionality as the Gen 5 but with an analogue watch face framing the screen. Available in pink or black silicone straps or rose gold stainless steel.
Fossil, $195-$215; shop now
A Statement Piece
From flashy colors to bold design choices, these watches are all fully compliment-worthy.
Modern 47
Available in a variety of bold colors and finishes, this blank watch face and straight leather band makes for a sleek, beautiful accessory.
Movado, $595-$695; shop now
The Cuff Watch
For the grad who simply does not do boring, this fun number comes in a ton of color and finish combinations.It also features a blank watch face, with a cuffed leather band featuring a loop and snap accent on either side.
Marc Jacobs, $250-$300; shop now
Blue Diamond Analogue Watch
This royal blue metal watch is the stuff of dreams. With a monochromatic touch, this piece is perfect for the grad who does business and style.
Guess, $135; shop now
Swarovski's Octea Lux Moon Watch
For the wanderlust graduate, this watch takes you on an adventure whenever you look to tell the time.
Swarovski, $379; shop now