As Mother’s Day approaches on Sunday, May 12, finding the perfect gift that balances both style and function is key. While timepieces in the 20th century often catered to men, history reveals that the earliest wristwatches were crafted specifically for women. Abraham-Louis Breguet created one of the first women’s wristwatches in 1810 for Caroline Murat, the queen of Naples. Since then, the tradition of female-focused timepieces has evolved, with iconic brands like Patek Philippe and Cartier leading the way. Fast-forward to today, and the rise of unisex styles proves that women are just as invested in functionality as they are in fashion.
Whether shopping for your mom, wife, sister, aunt, or best friend, a watch is a timeless gift that combines elegance with practicality. Below are eight standout timepieces from top brands, all under $5,000, to consider this Mother’s Day.
Citizen Tsuyosa 37mm Stainless Steel Watch – $450 at Citizen, $337.50 at Amazon
Designed with Japanese craftsmanship, the Citizen Tsuyosa is a sleek 37mm stainless steel watch that blends style with functionality. Its automatic movement is housed within a durable steel case, while an ice-blue sunray dial and date window at 3 o’clock offer ease of use. The crown is positioned at 4 o’clock, adding a modern touch to this classic design.
Shinola Runwell 41mm Moon Phase Watch – $950 at Shinola
Crafted in Detroit, the Shinola Runwell with Moon Phase function is a versatile timepiece. The 41mm gold PVD case houses a Swiss movement and a white dial with a Moon Phase complication at the center. A date window at 6 o’clock complements the watch’s clean and elegant design, perfect for those seeking both style and precision.
Gucci Interlocking Watch – $2,000 at Gucci
A recent trend in timepieces has been the rise of pink dials, and Gucci’s Interlocking Watch embraces this with a 29mm quartz movement housed in a stainless steel case. The watch features a signature interlocking “G” design on the subdial and is adorned with diamonds. This timepiece is a chic and contemporary addition to any collection.
Chanel Première Gourmette Chain Watch – $4,650 at Chanel
Inspired by the crystal stopper of Chanel No. 5, the Première Gourmette Chain Watch combines luxury with history. The octagonal steel case and black lacquered dial draw from iconic elements of the Chanel brand, while the steel chain bracelet pays homage to the design of Chanel handbags. This statement piece exudes sophistication.
Oris Big Crown Pointer Date Watch – $2,300 at Oris
A standout at the Watches & Wonders trade fair, the Oris Big Crown Pointer Date features a stunning lilac dial within a 40mm steel case. This automatic timepiece offers excellent readability, with a date hand positioned around the dial’s perimeter. A classic design with a pop of color, it’s a perfect blend of modernity and tradition.
Panthère de Cartier Watch – $4,350 at Cartier
The Panthère de Cartier is a tribute to the iconic painting “Woman with a Panther” by George Barbier. This 23mm x 30mm steel case watch is adorned with diamonds and embodies the elegance of Cartier’s legacy. A perfect blend of luxury and versatility, it’s ideal for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and timeless design.
Tudor Black Bay 58 Watch – $4,600 at Tudor
With its rich burgundy dial and elegant five-link steel bracelet, the Tudor Black Bay 58 offers a stylish and functional choice for watch enthusiasts. Water-resistant to 200 meters, this 39mm timepiece boasts a self-winding movement that ensures accurate timekeeping, making it a reliable companion for both everyday wear and outdoor adventures.
Nomos Glashütte Club Sport Neomatik Worldtimer Glacier Watch – $4,720 at Nomos Glashütte
For the jet-setter mom, the Nomos Glashütte Club Sport Neomatik Worldtimer offers a sophisticated design paired with practical functionality. This automatic timepiece displays 24 time zones on its dial, with a 24-hour subdial to track a second time zone. Its “Glacier” design, with a silver dial and unique color combination, is both distinctive and stylish.
These eight timepieces offer a range of styles and functions to suit every woman’s taste, from bold statement pieces to classic, understated designs. With a wide selection of watches at various price points, it’s easy to find the perfect gift to celebrate the special women in your life this Mother’s Day.
