A Nice Watch as a Gift

Updated on June 03, 2012
M.K. asks from Columbus, OH
12 answers

Hi Everyone:

My son will be 18 in a few weeks and I want to get him something really nice. He's hinted that he needs a watch. I've given him some in the past but they were relatively cheap and didn't last long. So, my question: where do I get a really nice watch that's going to last? Do I need to go to a jeweler to get really good quality? Is there a specific brand that would last? He's a typical boy: works on his car; plays tennis, etc. He's pretty good at remembering not to wear it during certain times.

Thanks!!

oops - Yes, I should have said I would be willing to spend between $100 - $150 if I know it's a good watch!

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So What Happened?

Thank you everyone for all the wonderful ideas! I looked on Amazon.com (never knew there were so many watches out there) and then at jewelry stores today - exact same things on Amazon for almost half the price! That's crazy!

Still checking out all the other links!!! Thank you!!

Just as a side note - yes, I am very proud of him!! He is a very responsible young man; straight-A's in high school; part-time job because he doesn't expect things handed to him; bought a used car and it's already paid off; AND is an Eagle Scout. I always knew I'd survive him reaching 18!! lol!!! My daughter on the other hand.... she's 14 and I'm not so sure I'll survive her reaching 18!! lol!!!

Featured Answers

E.D.

answers from Seattle on

I got my husband a decent watch for his birthday. I found some lovely Seiko watches on amazon - much marked down from shop or jewelry store prices.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=sr_in_-2_p_4_33?rh=n%...

2 moms found this helpful

More Answers

D.P.

answers from Detroit on

For that price range and his lifestyle. I would recommend the Gshock by Casio.

3 moms found this helpful
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S.H.

answers from Honolulu on

1) "Swiss Army" watches are good and nice and for active people.
But it is more than $150
But it is a good watch and lasts.
Stylish.
I have one.
My Husband as well.

2) "Swatch Watches" are also good and have a varied price range. They have dressy or athletic type watches with all types of bands.
I have one too. And my Husband as well.
It is for all ages. Some are classic styled and some are more trendy.
Good watch. Lasts. Easy to replace battery.

For both of these brands... just go to Amazon, and they have many to look at. Therefore, you can see what styles they offer and also read the reviews and see the price ranges.
Then from there you can go to your local stores and see if they carry it.

For an active person or guy... I would highly suggest getting him a water resistant or waterproof watch. Much more convenient and practical and worry free if he is prone to forgetting to take off the watch before he showers or washes his car.

2 moms found this helpful

L.A.

answers from Austin on

Our daughter just graduated from college and also asked for a watch. She Is so darn picky, we told her we were willing to spend 150 - 200.

We thought the Swiss Army would be perfect. Took her to Costco to look at all of their watches.."

Then the other day we were at Target and she handed me a Timex for $29. And said this is perfect. Go figure. I have always also loved Timex...

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M.C.

answers from Albuquerque on

You will not be able to get a watch from a jeweler for under $150.

I suggest checking your local pawn shops for a "diamond in the rough." I found a Movado for my husband at a pawn shop years ago. We also purchased a Bulova for $50 from a pawn shop recently and saw it on display at Kays for 640.00!

Both watches looked brand new (maybe they were?), and came in their original boxes. No one would know it was from a hocker!

Good luck!

2 moms found this helpful

C.O.

answers from Washington DC on

Fossil is good quality.
http://www.zappos.com/fossil-ansel-chronograph-fs4670-bru...

Swiss Army is "rough and ready" and great quality.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/NIB-Swiss-Army-Watch-White-Face-M...

Diesel
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Diesel-Mens-DZ1149-Leather-Band-Q...

You can get nice watches that are water proof as well. Swiss Army and Diesel both have watches that are nice looking and water proof!

I hope those links help you get an idea of what you are looking for.

Happy birthday to your son!!

1 mom found this helpful
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L.M.

answers from Houston on

I would say Fossil...that's my style though ;)

1 mom found this helpful
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M.P.

answers from Pittsburgh on

I highly suggest a Luminox watch. It is a great watch, will last forever and is very cool for a kid that age.

1 mom found this helpful
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L.M.

answers from Seattle on

How about a casio G shock watch.. That he can swim with even to 350 feet.. They come in tons of colors and have features like alarms, timer on them. They are quite popular with his age group. Macy's, Nordstrom and amazon.com carry them and they are in your price range. I have one that I wear on vacation and all summer long because they last and are water proof.
L.

1 mom found this helpful
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C.B.

answers from Boston on

I am surprised that anyone under 25 would want a watch. That age group tends to use their cell phone for time checks. My boss is addicted to watches and has about 18 of them, but all are super expensive. I would love to get a fancy watch, but I would make sure he likes the style. Perhaps give him a gift card that says you will go shopping with him and let him choose?

1 mom found this helpful

M.S.

answers from Los Angeles on

Depends how much you want to spend. If you're talking high end like an Omega that'll put you back at least a grand and yes, definitely go to a jeweler. If you're thinking more in the $200 range, check out bradsdeals.com. It's site that aggregates all the deals that are online. I notice they have watches on there very often. If you want to go to a brick and mortar store, I'd suggest Nordstrom because they have the best return policy anywhere and a good selection of watches.
Congrats on making it to 18! My kids have a long, long ways to go...

www.educationmom.com

1 mom found this helpful
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J.F.

answers from Milwaukee on

I think there should be a Rogers & Hollands or Ashcroft & Oak near you. Check there for a Citizen. They have great styles, are afordable, and durable! Congratulations on his graduation!

1 mom found this helpful
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