Eight Women’s Wristwatches That Are Extremely Complicated

Both Patek Philippe and Breguet stake claim to the development of the first-ever wristwatch. Patek crafted its debut model in 1868; a decade later the Countess Koscowicz of Hungary would acquire the large, gold-paneled timepiece. This watch still exists. The Breguet piece, purportedly finished in 1810 for Napoleon’s sister, the Queen Consort of Naples, seems to have disappeared. With either as the starting point, several decades passed with the wristwatch serving as an accessory—jewel-encrusted, lavish, and spectacular—for women only. Thus, advancements in the category pertained solely to ladies’ watches.

As the wristwatch became a tool for timekeeping during World War I, men strapped them on—and an industry changed. For years, brands have reserved watch improvements, complications, and technical advancement for men’s timepieces. (Nowadays, of course, women wear watches “designed for men” and vice versa, but the industry still very much divides its strategies by gender.) Collections “for women” most often involve reducing millimeter size, covering a bezel in precious stones, or both. And yet, almost every year a brand or two releases a women’s collection that demonstrates an horological mastery that honors women collectors. While Patek Philippe and Breguet are still among this list, we’re also seeing innovative pieces from independent designers such as MB&F and Christophe Claret.