In the world of men’s timepieces, the round watch may be the default, but the square watch makes a distinct statement. This classic design offers a unique blend of retro charm and modern utility, standing out for its geometric confidence. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged durability of a digital classic or the sophisticated lines of a luxury automatic, a square watch can be the cornerstone of a versatile collection.
Finding the right square watch involves balancing aesthetics, functionality, and budget. From sub-$50 icons that have stood the test of time to high-end smartwatches and sophisticated automatics, there is a square watch for every man and every occasion. This roundup is designed to guide you through the best options available, helping you find a timepiece that not only tells time but also tells your story.
Our Curated Selection of Square Watches
- Casio Men’s Vintage A168WA-1 Electro Luminescence Watch
- Casio G-Shock GWM5610-1 Men’s Solar Black Resin Sport Watch
- SEIKO SNKP27 Automatic Watch for Men – Recraft Series
- Garmin 010-01689-00 Forerunner 35; Easy-to-Use GPS Running Watch
- Apple Watch Series 5 (GPS, 40mm) – Space Gray Aluminum Case
- Fossil Neutra Stainless Steel and Leather Chronograph Watch
- Timex Weekender Chronograph 40mm Watch
- Seiko Men’s SNK809 Seiko 5 Automatic Watch
Casio Men’s Vintage A168WA-1 Electro Luminescence Watch
The Casio A168WA-1 is a testament to timeless design and practical functionality. This vintage-inspired digital watch brings a classic 80s aesthetic to the modern wrist without compromising on reliability. Its straightforward features are built for daily use, offering a no-fuss approach to timekeeping that has made it a beloved icon for decades.
Durability is a key feature, with a stainless steel band and resin glass protecting the dial. The blue electro-luminescent backlight ensures clear visibility in low-light conditions, while the long-life CR2016 battery is rated to last up to seven years before needing service. This watch is a perfect blend of retro style and enduring quality.
Casio G-Shock GWM5610-1 Men’s Solar Black Resin Sport Watch
For those who need a watch that can handle anything life throws at it, the G-Shock GWM5610-1 is the ultimate tool. It carries the iconic square design of the original G-Shock, celebrated for its near-indestructible build. This model is built to military standards for shock resistance, making it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures, tough jobs, and active lifestyles.
This G-Shock elevates functionality with its Tough Solar power, which charges the battery in any light, eliminating the need for frequent battery replacements. It also features Multi-Band 6 atomic timekeeping, which automatically synchronizes the watch with the official time signal for unparalleled accuracy. The auto LED light provides excellent illumination with just a tilt of the wrist.
SEIKO SNKP27 Automatic Watch for Men – Recraft Series
The Seiko Recraft SNKP27 offers a bold, retro-futuristic design powered by the smooth, sweeping motion of an automatic mechanical movement. This watch stands out with its striking green sunray dial and angular cushion-shaped case that gives it a unique square presence. It’s a conversation starter for those who appreciate horological craftsmanship with a distinctive style.
Inside this eye-catching timepiece is Seiko’s reliable 7S26 automatic movement, which features a 41-hour power reserve and does not require a battery. The handsome brown leather strap and day/date complication add to its practicality and vintage appeal. With 50 meters of water resistance, it’s built to be both a statement piece and a reliable daily wear.
Garmin 010-01689-00 Forerunner 35; Easy-to-Use GPS Running Watch
The Garmin Forerunner 35 is a square-shaped GPS watch designed for runners and fitness enthusiasts who want essential data in a simple, easy-to-use package. It automatically tracks your distance, pace, and location using GPS, providing all the core metrics you need to monitor your progress. Its square format makes the display easy to read at a glance during any activity.
Beyond running, this watch offers 24/7 heart rate monitoring at the wrist using Garmin’s Elevate technology, allowing you to track your intensity all day and night. Connected features include smart notifications for calls and texts, automatic uploads to the Garmin Connect online community, and music controls for your smartphone. It’s a capable and accessible entry into the world of GPS sports watches.
Apple Watch Series 5 (GPS, 40mm) – Space Gray Aluminum Case
The Apple Watch Series 5 redefines the square smartwatch with its advanced features and seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem. Its key innovation is the Always-On Retina display, which allows you to see the time and your watch face without raising your wrist or tapping the screen. This feature makes it feel more like a traditional watch while retaining all its smart capabilities.
With built-in GPS, it precisely tracks your workouts and outdoor activities. The larger screen provides more space for apps and notifications, making interactions smoother. From receiving calls and messages to monitoring your health and fitness goals, the Apple Watch Series 5 is a powerful wearable computer that sits comfortably on your wrist.
Fossil Neutra Stainless Steel and Leather Chronograph Watch
The Fossil Neutra chronograph blends vintage-inspired design with modern construction for a sophisticated and functional timepiece. Its square stainless steel case is paired with a contrasting leather strap, creating a look that is both rugged and refined. This watch is perfect for someone who wants a versatile accessory that can transition from the office to a weekend outing.
As a chronograph, it offers stopwatch functionality through its sub-dials, adding a layer of utility to its appealing aesthetics. The clean dial layout and bold numerals ensure excellent legibility. Fossil’s attention to detail in the case finishing and strap quality makes the Neutra a strong contender in the world of affordable luxury watches.
Timex Weekender Chronograph 40mm Watch
Known for its casual American style, the Timex Weekender Chronograph offers a relaxed and adaptable square design. It’s a watch built for ease and comfort, featuring a simple strap-changing system that allows you to swap out bands to match your mood or outfit. This makes it an incredibly versatile piece for building a capsule watch collection.
The chronograph function provides practical stopwatch timing, while the iconic Timex Indiglo light-up dial ensures you can read the time in any lighting condition. With its clean design, reliable quartz movement, and focus on comfort, the Weekender is a go-to choice for a low-maintenance, stylish everyday watch.
Seiko Men’s SNK809 Seiko 5 Automatic Watch
The Seiko 5 SNK809 is a celebrated entry-point into the world of automatic mechanical watches. While its case is a robust cushion shape that wears like a square, it offers the intrigue of a self-winding movement visible through its exhibition case back. You can watch the intricate balance wheel and rotor in motion, a feature typically found in more expensive timepieces.
As part of the Seiko 5 family, it guarantees key features: automatic movement, day/date display, water resistance, a durable case, and a recessed crown. Its black dial and canvas strap give it a utilitarian, field watch aesthetic that is both practical and stylish. It represents exceptional value and mechanical watchmaking heritage.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Your Square Watch
So you’re thinking about getting a square watch. Good call. Moving away from the sea of round watches is a surefire way to add some character to your wrist. But before you pick one, there are a few things I always consider to make sure I’m getting a piece that fits my life and style.
First up is the case material. This really dictates the watch’s personality and price. On the budget end, you’ll find a lot of stainless steel and mineral crystal glass, which is tough and gets the job done. As you move up, you get into more premium materials like titanium for a lighter feel, or even ceramic for a unique, scratch-resistant finish. For the luxury picks, solid 18k gold, platinum, and sapphire crystal – which is incredibly hard to scratch – become the standards. Think about your daily activities; a rugged stainless steel case might be better for an active lifestyle, while a polished gold piece is more for special occasions.
Next, let’s talk about the movement – the heart of the watch. For many, a reliable quartz movement is perfect. It’s low-maintenance, accurate, and affordable. If you’re into the craft of watchmaking, a mechanical (automatic or manual-wind) movement is the way to go. These are intricate, beautifully engineered, and don’t require a battery. The smooth sweep of the second hand on a mechanical watch has a certain magic to it. In the luxury tier, the finishing and complications of these mechanical movements become a true art form.
Style and versatility are huge. A square watch can range from a stark, minimalist design to a complex, multi-functional chronograph. Consider what you’ll be wearing it with. A simple, elegant square watch with a leather strap can be incredibly versatile, moving from the office to a dinner out seamlessly. A chunkier, sportier model on a bracelet or rubber strap might be your go-to for weekends and casual wear. Look at the dial color and strap options; a black or white dial is a classic starting point, while a blue or green can add a pop of personality.
Finally, don’t forget about size and wearability. Square watches often wear a bit larger than their round counterparts because of the corners. Check the case dimensions, including the thickness. A watch that’s too thick might not slide comfortably under a shirt cuff. The best way to know is to try it on if you can, or at least read reviews about how it sits on the wrist. Finding the right 8 square watches for men (best picks from budget to luxury) is all about balancing these factors to match your personal taste and practical needs.
FAQ
Are square watches still in style for men?
Absolutely. While round watches are the default, square and rectangular watches have a long, celebrated history and have never truly gone out of style. Think of iconic models like the Cartier Santos or the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso. A square watch offers a distinct, often more architectural look that stands out. It shows a bit of confidence and an appreciation for classic design that isn’t just following the crowd. They are a timeless choice.
What should I look for in a square watch for a smaller wrist?
For a smaller wrist, the key is proportion. Look at the case’s lug-to-lug measurement – that’s the distance from the top of the lugs to the bottom. You want this measurement to be less than the width of your wrist for a comfortable fit. A square watch with a more compact, integrated case design (where the bracelet flows directly from the case) can often wear better than one with protruding lugs. Also, a thinner case profile will feel less bulky. Don’t be afraid to go for a slightly smaller size; it often looks more intentional and elegant.
Can I wear a square watch formally?
You certainly can. In fact, many of the most iconic dress watches are square or rectangular. The key is in the details. A square watch with a slim profile, a simple, uncluttered dial (think Roman numerals or simple stick markers), and a high-quality leather strap in black or brown is a perfect formal companion. It’s a sophisticated look that pairs wonderfully with a suit. The goal is elegance and understatement, so avoid anything too chunky or sporty for black-tie events.
What are the best strap options for a square watch?
Square watches are surprisingly versatile with straps. A leather strap is a classic choice that dresses up almost any square case. For a sportier vibe, a metal bracelet (like the integrated ones on many 1970s-inspired models) or a rubber strap works great. NATO or perlon straps can also add a casual, colorful touch and are easy to swap out. The great thing is that changing the strap is the easiest way to completely change the watch’s character, so feel free to experiment. When looking at the 8 square watches for men (best picks from budget to luxury), pay attention to the lug width to see how easy it will be to find aftermarket straps.
Is a square watch as durable as a round one?
This is a common question. Generally, a round case distributes pressure more evenly, which can be an advantage against impacts. However, a well-made square watch from a reputable brand, regardless of price, is built to be durable. The corners are often reinforced. The real factor in durability is the build quality and materials—like the type of crystal (sapphire is best), water resistance rating, and the case construction—not necessarily the shape itself. For everyday wear, a quality square watch is just as robust as a round one.