Top Summer Picks: 11 Men's Watches Put to the Test this Season
Whether you're navigating the great outdoors or lounging on the beach, a stylish timepiece is a must-have accessory for any man this summer. While some watches can be worn year-round without issue, we've rounded up the top options that cater specifically to the warm season. Here's our guide to the best summer watches for men in 2023.
Best Summer Watches Rundown
Seiko 5 Sports GMT SSK005
If you're on the hunt for affordable, automatic watches that will hold up for summertime, look no further than Seiko. The 5 Sports line recently replaced the beloved SKX and sports a 4R34 GMT movement visible through the caseback. This watch ranges from 36mm to 40mm in diameter and features an automatic GMT movement, perfect for keeping track of multiple time zones during your summer travels.
Citizen Tsuyosa
For a more affordable yet reliable watch, consider Citizen. The Tsuyosa offers an everyday wrist presence in a 40mm stainless steel case, making it a great choice for any outing. The Miyota 8210 automatic movement powering this watch is visible through the caseback. While it's limited to 50m of water resistance, the watch's style and price make it a solid option for the summer.
Hamilton Khaki Aviation Pilot Pioneer Mechanical
Inspired by the tonneau-shaped 6BB RAF pilot watches that appeared in the 1970s, this Hamilton watch is another fashionable option for summer. Known for its classic design, the watch's slim 36mm case makes it suitable for most wrists. Powered by the H-50 automatic movement, the watch has 100m of water resistance and offers a playful yet timeless aesthetic.
DOXA SUB 200 Professional
The DOXA SUB 200 Professional is a more wearable version of one of the most iconic divers ever. Featuring a 200m depth rating, this watch has a classic barrel-shaped case and dive bezel. Despite its aggressive styling, it's ideal for the summer months due to its 100m of water resistance and reliable ETA 2824-2 automatic movement.
Tissot Sideral S Powermatic 80
This Tissot watch boasts a unique forged carbon case and 300m of water resistance. Available in bold colors such as red, blue, and yellow, the Sideral S caters to both beach and pool uses while presenting a striking aesthetic. As part of the Aqua Compressor line, this watch's downward-facing bezel and fixed inner bezel provide the opportunity to dive up to 300m underwater.
Farer Hecla Carmine Red Ti Series II
The Farer Hecla Carmine Red Ti boasts an incredibly lightweight titanium case and 300m of water resistance, ideal for adventures in warmer climates. The watch's Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement offers a 40-hour power reserve and is paired with a comfortable rubber strap.
Zodiac Super Sea Wolf Compression Diver Automatic
Available in a vivid, seafoam green colorway, the Zodiac Super Sea Wolf Compression Diver Automatic is perfect for the summer season. Sporting a vintage aesthetic with modern watchmaking, this 40mm watch has 200m of water resistance and features an ETA-replica STP1-11 automatic caliber.
Tudor Pelagos FXD
If you're searching for a more traditional dive watch for your summer wardrobe, look no further than the Tudor Pelagos FXD. This 42mm watch's lightweight titanium case and rugged design make it ideal for various summer activities, while its ETA-manufactured MT5602 automatic movement provides a smooth seconds hand tick.
NOMOS Glashutte Ahoi Neomatik Atlantik
Elegant yet versatile, the NOMOS Glashutte Ahoi Neomatik Atlantik is perfect for summer dinners or beach outings. Featuring a 36mm diameter, this watch's DUW 3001 in-house automatic movement powers a smooth seconds hand and offers a 44-hour power reserve. The watch's deep blue colorway adds a touch of preppy sophistication.
Omega Seamaster Diver 300M
A true icon in the world of dive watches, the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M is a go-to for the summer months. This 42mm watch sports a blue ceramic dial with a matching ceramic bezel insert and 300m of water resistance. Powered by Omega's COSC-certified Co-Axial Master Chronometer Caliber 8800, the watch offers exceptional precision and durability.
Breitling Superocean Heritage '57 Watch
With its minimalist design, the Breitling Superocean Heritage '57 Watch is a popular pick among surfers. The watch's 47mm stainless steel case, automatic movement, and water resistance of 100m make it well-suited to summer adventures in or out of the water. This watch is available in several versions, ensuring you can find the perfect one for your style.
If you're a car enthusiast, be sure to check out our guide to the best watches for car enthusiasts for even more watch options.
Enrichment Data
Overall, the best summer watches for men in 2023 range from sporty and durable to luxurious statement pieces. Here are notable options across various categories:
- Luxury and Stylish Watches: Tudor Black Bay Chrono "Carbon 25," Richard Mille RM-75 01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire
- Field and Sport Watches: Timex Expedition Scout 40mm, Bertucci Men’s A-2T Super Classic, Seiko Alpinist SPB121, Hamilton Khaki Field Expedition, Zodiac Olympos
- GPS and Outdoor Watches: Garmin Instinct 3 Solar, Garmin Fenix 8 Solar, Apple Watch Ultra 2
For each category, there are watches that excel in durability, style, legibility, water resistance, and various activities. Selecting the ideal summer watch depends on whether you prioritize style, durability, or functionality for your summer pursuits.
- For car enthusiasts seeking a watch that complements their lifestyle, check out our guide to the best watches for car enthusiasts for an expanded collection of timepieces.
- The Seiko 5 Sports GMT SSK005 is a budget-friendly and robust watch ideal for summertime adventures, featuring automatic GMT movement and a water resistance of 100m.
- The Hamilton Khaki Aviation Pilot Pioneer Mechanical offers a timeless design, 100m of water resistance, and the H-50 automatic movement, making it a suitable accessory for both leisurely beach outings and stylish dinner events.
