Teenage boys are fickle by design. Since they’re just learning themselves and what they’re individuality is all about, they’re often extremely picky and change their minds often about fashion and related accessories such as watches. If you are one, you can probably admit this. If you know or are raising one, it’s probably pretty clear to see.
When searching for the top watches for teenage boys, you’ll want to put luxury watches on the back burner in favor of casual watches which look great and last long. Whether you’re considering a smartwatch or a simple analog time piece with a mineral crystal dial window, it makes sense to put yourself in a teenager’s shoes before making a purchase.
What would you wear as a teenager. If you are one, what do you think is stylish? Features like luminous hands, easy-to-see hour markers, and world time capabilities mean much less than just finding a cool watch that’s fun to show off at school or when hanging out at the mall or something. Watches for teenagers must be simple enough to grow with their style, not overpowering in design so that they grow bored of it when they eventually alter their approach to outfits.
If you’re not quite sure what watch to get for the boy in your life (or yourself), we’re here to help. Below is our definitive list of the Top 7 Watches For Teenage Boys In 2021. We also included a useful Frequently Asked Questions section below it, so definitely check that out.
First, let’s start our countdown!
The 7 Best Watches For Teenage Boys In 2021
7) Daniel Wellington Classic Glasgow Watch
- Designed in Sweden, Daniel Wellington timepieces feature minimalist Scandinavian style and are the perfect gift or personal accessory for every occasion.
- Double Plating On 316L Stainless Steel With A Silver Finish
- 40mmmm dial in Eggshell White
- Japanese Quartz Movement
- Durable, water-resistant case Up to 3 ATM
If you’re on the lookout for a simple analog watch that’s the epitome of understated style, you can’t do much better than this gorgeous Daniel Wellington time piece. Teenagers don’t want kiddie stuff. They are growing into adults and experiencing the adult world for the first time. Therefore, they need a watch that fits that motif and that particular time in their lives. This one is it, and the Japanese quartz movement and durable construction ensure it will be a part of their wardrobe well into their adulthood.
Specs
Display Type: Analog
Clasp Style: Tang Buckle
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Case Diameter: 40 mm
Case Thickness: 6 mm
Strap Material: Nylon
Strap Length: Unisex
Strap Width: 24.1 mm
Strap Color: Blue, White
Dial Color: White
Bezel Material: Stainless Steel
Water Resistance: 30 meters
Movement: Quartz Movement
Pros
- This watch is pretty durable for such a thin and fashion-focused time piece.
- We love the color scheme and the way the blue pops off the strap with the white-dominant dial and strap accents. It’s gorgeous.
- This watch is the definition of clean. Every angle, every curve is simple and perfectly balanced.
Cons
- Tech-savvy teens might be disappointed with the simple presentation and outlay of this watch.
- The case is extremely thin and may not work with some teens’ outfits and looks of choice.
6) Samsung Gear S3 Classic Smartwatch
- A distinctive steel bezel that you can rotate to access apps and notifications. Battery Type and Size 380mAh Li ion. Typical Usage up to 3 days. Charging Method Wireless Charging Dock
- Text, call and get notifications directly from your watch through your Bluetooth connected smartwatch
- Make payments with Samsung Pay almost anywhere you swipe or tap a credit card. With the built in S Health app, track your steps, monitor your heart rate, and more
- With military grade performance, the Gear S3 resists water, dust, extreme temperatures and the occasional drop
The first of two smartwatches on our list, the Samsung Gear S3 is perfect for the gadget-obsessed teenager in your life. It connects directly to a smartphone via Bluetooth and you can actually conduct calls, answer texts, and read notifications with it! It also has a reliable built-in GPS system and a rotating bezel which makes it easy to access apps and other notifications. It’s also a real looker and has a military-grade construction which can withstand a ton of punishment and potential impacts.
Specs
Color: Silver, Black
3 Key Features: Call, text, receive notifications with Bluetooth connectivity to your smartphone >> Samsung Pay app capability for paying at most merchants >> S Health app built in for monitoring fitness and overall health
Battery Life: Up to 4 days in normal smartwatch mode, less with multiple features used
Pros
- The connectivity features with other Samsung products makes this the perfect accessory for a Samsung user.
- You can take calls on it! And you can text on it as well! For the teen who wants to answer a parent’s text quickly in the hallways at school, this is definitely a great option.
- The inclusion of Samsung Pay will cut down on the need for a wallet. This watch is a great way to simplify things.
Cons
- The battery life on this watch can be suspect over time. Keep the warranty on hand if it stops keeping a charge for long.
- Compared to the second smartwatch on our list, this watch isn’t as app or feature heavy.
5) Casio Men’s GA110RG-1A G-Shock Watch
- Shock-resistant sports watch featuring black and copper-tone dial with LED light, countdown timer, and 1/1000-second stopwatch
- 51 mm resin case with mineral dial window
- Japanese quartz movement with digital display
- Also features flash alert, world time (48 cities and UTC), multi-home time, 12/24 hour formats, and ribbed resin band with buckle closure
- Water resistant to 200 m (660 ft): In general, suitable for professional marine activity and serious surface water sports, but not scuba diving
For the teenager who is sports obsessed or simply has an active lifestyle, the Casio G-Shock GA110RG-1A Watch is a fantastic buy. This rugged sports watch has a water resistance depth of 200 meters and is fully shock resistant. That means it can get banged, slammed, and run into things without much incident at all. The mineral crystal dial window is extremely tough, resisting scratches and keeping the analog/digital dial as clear as day. This watch can withstand a zombie apocalypse, so we’re pretty sure it withstand a teenager.
Specs
Display Type: Analog/Digital
Clasp Style: Tang Buckle
Case Material: Resin
Case Diameter: 51 mm
Case Thickness: 17 mm
Strap Material: Resin
Strap Length: Men’s Standard
Strap Width: 16 mm
Strap Color: Black
Dial Color: Black
Bezel Material: Resin
Water Resistance: 200 meters
Movement: Japanese Quartz Movement
Pros
- For anyone who loves sports and wants a watch that can play alongside them, this watch can do that. It’s built for active people.
- This watch lasts and lasts. The shock resistance is unparalleled and the 200 meters of water resistance means you can wear it in swimming class with no problems.
- The unique analog/digital dial presentation is pretty fun to look at. It’s atypical and that’s a good thing in this case.
Cons
- From an aesthetic point of view, this watch sacrifices sleekness for a more sporty look. It’s not super versatile in presentation.
- We’re not a huge fan of the resin strap. It just doesn’t conform to most wrists with the same comfort as other straps on this list.
4) Fossil Men’s Machine Stainless Steel Chronograph Quartz Watch
- Fossil has always been inspired by American creativity and ingenuity. Since 1984, we’ve strived to bring new life into the industry by making quality, fashionable watches and accessories that were both fun and accessible
- A celebration of American manufacturing, Machine is a classic for a reason. This watch combines the industrial—such as a screw-head crown—with the refined. Its case features a diamond-pattern texture that recalls a traditional machining technique
- Case size: 45mm; Band size: 24mm; quartz movement with chronograph analog display and date window; hardened mineral crystal lens resists scratches; imported
- Black stainless steel case with black dial; black silicone-coated stainless steel bracelet band; links can be removed for a customized fit; interchangeable with all 24mm Fossil watch straps
- Water resistant to 50m (165ft): suitable for short periods of recreational swimming and showering, but not diving or snorkeling; 5 ATM
For the teenager who wants to make a statement with their watch of choice, the Fossil Men’s Machine Stainless Steel Chronograph Quartz Watch is definitely worth a look. We just adore the black-on-black presentation and the clear outlay of the dial and subdials. We also think that teenagers will appreciated the hardened mineral crystal dial window which rarely gets scratched or scuffed. The way this watch sits on your wrist, it really ties any outfit together and adds a touch of boldness to the proceedings.
Specs
Display Type: Analog
Clasp Style: Tang Buckle
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Case Diameter: 45 mm
Case Thickness: 13 mm
Band Material: Silicone
Band Length: Men’s Standard
Band Width: 24 mm
Band Color: Black
Dial Color: Black
Bezel Material: Stainless Steel
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Movement: Quartz Movement
Pros
- This watch is fashionable in every sense of the world. Whatever look a teen is going for, this watch can complement it.
- The construction of the dial window is among the most sturdy on this list. It’s unlikely to get scuffed.
- The Fossil name is well known by teens and adults. Just having the brand name on this watch will definitely score a teen boy some points.
Cons
- The band can be a bit of a problem. After repeated use, sometimes the color is prone to flaking off.
- The watch does feel a bit cheaper than it looks, but it’s not for lack of quality overall.
3) Seiko Men’s SNK809 Automatic Stainless Steel Watch
- To the start the watch initially, swing from side to side in a horizontal arc about 30 seconds.
- 37 mm stainless steel case and Hardlex mineral dial window and Precise 21-jewel automatic movement with analog display
Just because you’re in your teens doesn’t mean you can’t be a watch aficionado. Teenagers see and appreciate quality just like anyone else, and that’s what the Seiko Men’s SNK809 Automatic Stainless Steel Watch represents — great quality at an affordable price point. And rather than a quartz movement which needs periodic battery changes, this watch has an automatic movement which winds itself by the natural movement of a wrist and arm. No battery changes means less fuss, and that’s what a casual watch should be all about.
Specs
Display Type: Analog
Clasp Style: Tang Buckle
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Case Diameter: 37 mm
Case Thickness: 11 mm
Band Material: Nylon
Band Length: 9.5 inches
Band Width: 17 mm
Band Color: Black
Dial Color: Black
Bezel Material: Stainless Steel
Water Resistance: 30 meters
Movement: Automatic
Pros
- Seiko is known for quality time pieces which last. This is just one of many standouts in its line of watches, but what a standout it is!
- The stainless steel case and bezel are both rugged and clean looking. It’s a great balance of form and function.
- The 21-jewel automatic movement keeps time with no fuss. It’s extremely precise, meaning teens will have no excuses for getting to class late.
Cons
- The nylon strap is pretty tight on bigger wrists. You may need to get a replacement.
- This watch is a bit on the small and understated side. Those looking for a statement piece will be disappointed.
2. Nixon Men’s Time Teller Watch
- TIME TELLER, ALL BLACK. The 37mm Time Teller has a sleek 3-hand movement, applied indices and custom-molded hands. Built with custom 5-link stainless steel jewelry style bracelet and sliding buckle
- ORIGINAL NIXON DESIGN. An all-time best-seller with an unpretentious versatile appearance, this all black women’s watch is water resistant up to 100m and protects against everything from rain to surf. Snap down the top piece of your buckle to secure in place
- SIMPLIFY TIME. Clean lines cut through cloudy philosophy, while its simple, high concept design keeps things precise. The Time Teller is a simple Nixon watch that stands the test of time. The dial includes applied indices, and custom molded hands
- FUELED BY ADVENTURES. We deliver products that meet your needs in various high-stress work and play environments, whether it’s across the globe or down the street. Pull out the crown to set the time
- FOR A LIFE WELL LIVED. Through our dedicated teams’ perspectives, we contribute to a single unified expression: team-designed, custom-built accessories
Minimalist in the best of ways, the Nixon Men’s Time Tell Watch doesn’t overdo anything. There’s not much in the way of features here, but what this watch does do it does with a look that any teenager will appreciate. Of all the watches on this countdown, the aesthetic of this particular watch falls best in line with the changing whims and styles of teenagers. You can wear this watch with virtually anything and it looks great. And the little pops of gold add gravitas that you have to see in person to believe. Affordable, stylish, durable. Almost good enough to be our #1 watch on our countdown.
Specs
Display Type: Analog
Clasp Style: Deployment Clasp With Safety
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Case Diameter: 45 mm
Case Thickness: 8.8 mm
Band Material: Stainless Steel
Band Length: Men’s Standard
Band Width: 18.6 mm
Band Color: Black
Dial Color: Black
Bezel Material: Stainless Steel
Water Resistance: 100 feet
Movement: Japanese Quartz Movement
Pros
- The aesthetic of this watch is simply perfect. No matter what you enjoy wearing, this will likely go with it.
- For a relatively budget friendly watch, the Japanese quartz movement is one of the more reliable you’re going to find — especially at this price point.
- This watch is both an active time piece and a casual one. No matter what you’re doing and when you’re doing it, you can wear it.
Cons
- This watch is simple by design. If you want a watch that has features to spare, this isn’t it.
- The strap fastener feels a bit loose on smaller wrists.
And our pick for the best watch for teenage guys in 2021 is…
1) Apple Watch Series 5
- GPS
- Always-On Retina display
- 30% larger screen
- Swimproof
- ECG app
The ultimate gadget for teens and adults alike, the Apple Watch Series 5 is the perfect gift for any tech-savvy watch lover. A smartwatch which is much smarter than most, the Apple Watch Series 5 is as application friendly as any smartwatch that has ever been produced. You can customize it with a multitude of apps from the Apple Store and even sync it with your iPhone for an enhanced usage experience. It also comes in a multitude of colors, giving teenagers the chance to tailor it to their personalities. It’s a little pricey, but it’s worth it and worth our #1 spot.
Specs
Color: Multiple
3 Key Features: Seamless integration with Apple Store, can customize your smartwatch with applications >> Syncs with iPhones for ultimate Apple lover experience >> 64-bit processor portends lightning speeds
Battery Life: 18 hours per charge on average
Pros
- Apps are the name of the game with the Apple Watch. There’s so many things you can do with just by downloading a new app from the Apple Store.
- This latest model of the Apple Watch is as fast as any smartwatch out there, if not faster. Processing speeds are eye popping on this one.
- This watch is very durable for an expensive smartwatch. It’s built extremely sturdy and can withstand outdoors activities of all kinds.
Cons
- Apple interfaces can feel backwards for those not familiar with their products.
- This watch is a bit pricey and may not be a good option for a budget-conscious gift.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in the best watch for a teenage boy?
In all honesty, most teenage guys aren’t worried about the precision of a quartz movement or automatic movement when talking about watches. Fashion is everything for a large swath of teenage guys. Cool watches are the name of the game when looking for the best watches for a boy. Cool features like a leather strap, luminous hands, a countdown timer, world time functionality, mineral crystal dial windows and the like are great. But teenage guys really want a casual watch that’s simple yet pops with anything they wear.
When looking for watches for teenagers and watches for boy in particular, you have to think like a teenage guy. Boy watches need to be rugged to withstand the punishment teenage guys put on their stuff. Only the best watches from a durability standpoint will do as teenage boys’ watches. In short, a watch for boys is a watch that can withstand punishment while also being a casual watch with a good look. Cool watches are hard to qualify and quantify, but we think we did a dang good job with the countdown above.
Do teenage guys prefer smartwatches over regular watches?
Not necessarily. Of the seven watches for teenage boys on our countdown, only two can be classified as smartwatches. A watch for a boy simply needs to be a casual watch that isn’t too dressy and doesn’t overpower other things they’re wearing. A smartwatch can definitely be classified as a casual watch, but they can also be pretty pricey and a bit involved for some teenage guys.
When looking for watches for teenage boys, think about the boy you’re buying it for. Are they the type that will be cool with a simple, sleek analog watch with sparse hour markers? Are they super gadget oriented and looking for the most technologically advanced stuff at all times? Answer a few of these questions for yourself to determine whether the teenage boy in your life would prefer a simple, casual watch or a smartwatch with apps galore.
Closing Thoughts
The seven watches our countdown above are what teenage boys are looking for. They are simple, stylish, sleek, and super fun to wear. If you’re in the market for a gift or are looking for a watch yourself, there’s no way you can go wrong with one of the various options we’ve highlighted. They’re quality watches that are also simply really cool.