A Gift That's Worn Every Day
A watch is one of the most personal gifts you can give. It's worn every day, noticed often and kept for years. It can also feel tricky to choose for someone else. What size? Which style? Leather or steel? This guide walks you through each decision so you can buy with confidence, even when it's a surprise. Start by browsing men's watches and women's watches to get a feel for the options.
Step 1: Work Out Their Wrist Size
Case size matters more than most people realise. A watch that's too large can look bulky, and one that's too small can get lost on the wrist.
To find their size without asking:
- Borrow a watch they already wear. Measure the case diameter across the face, not including the crown.
- Check a worn strap. Measure a strap they use from the buckle to the most-used hole.
- Ask someone close to them. A partner, parent or friend may know, or can find out.
As a general guide:
- Wrist under 16cm: 30mm to 36mm case
- Wrist 16cm to 18cm: 36mm to 40mm case
- Wrist over 18cm: 40mm case and up
Many Mondaine collections come in more than one case size, so you can choose the style first and the size second.
Step 2: Match Their Style
Look at what they already wear.
- Minimalist or design-focused: The Classic collection features the iconic Swiss Railways dial, a true design classic.
- Modern and sporty: evo2 offers a rounded, contemporary case with the same clear dial.
- Understated and refined: Simply Elegant is slim, light and easy to dress up.
- Eco-conscious: Essence and our vegan watches use renewable and animal-free materials.
Step 3: Choose the Strap
The strap changes the whole feel of a watch.
- Leather: Classic and warm, and it softens with wear.
- Stainless steel mesh or bracelet: Polished, durable and great for everyday wear.
- Textile: Casual, lightweight and comfortable in warmer weather.
- Vegan leather: The look of leather, made without animal products.
Not sure? Stainless steel and neutral leather suit most wardrobes. Straps can also be swapped later from our watch band range.
Step 4: Pick the Movement
- Quartz: Accurate, low-maintenance and battery powered. It's the easiest choice for most people.
- Solar: Powered by light, so there's no battery to replace.
- Automatic: Powered by the wearer's movement, for someone who appreciates traditional watchmaking.
Step 5: Set Your Budget
A quality Swiss watch doesn't have to be the most expensive gift on the list. Set a budget first, then narrow down by style and size. It's the fastest way to avoid decision fatigue.
Still Unsure? You Have Options
- Choose a gift card. A Mondaine gift card lets them choose their own watch, clock or band.
- Exchange if needed. Unworn items in their original packaging can be returned or exchanged within 30 days of receipt. See our returns policy for details.
A Gift That Keeps Time for Years
Whether it's for Christmas, a birthday or a milestone, a well-chosen watch becomes part of someone's everyday life. Take a moment to consider their size, style and strap, and you'll give a gift they'll reach for every morning.