Wooden Watch or Metal Watch: Which Should You Choose?
Wooden watch questions
They do different jobs. Here's an honest side-by-side.
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Quick answer: Choose a wooden watch if you want something light, warm on the wrist and different to everyone else's, and it'll be worn day to day rather than in water. Choose a metal watch if you need water resistance for swimming or sport, or want a heavier, more traditional feel. If you can't decide, a wood-and-steel watch gives you a bit of both.
Side by side
| Wooden watch | Metal watch | |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Light | Heavier |
| Feel | Warm, never cold on the wrist | Cold in winter, can catch on hairs |
| Water | Splashproof only | Often water resistant for swimming |
| Look | Natural grain, no two the same | Classic, uniform |
| Wear | Can pick up small marks; darker woods hide them | Scratches show on polished steel |
| Personal touch | Engraving looks natural on wood | Engraving on steel |
When wood is the better choice
- He finds metal watches heavy, or has never got on with a steel bracelet.
- He likes things that are a bit different.
- It's a gift for the 5th wedding anniversary, which is the wood one. See our 5th anniversary gift guide.
- He works with wood or loves natural materials.
When metal is the better choice
- He swims, dives or wants a watch for the gym.
- He's very hard on his watches at work.
- He wants the weight and look of a traditional steel watch.
We'd rather tell you honestly when a wooden watch isn't the right fit. If water's the main worry, read can wooden watches get wet?.
The best of both: wood and steel
Several of our watches mix wood with steel, so they look like a modern metal watch with some warmth. The Oslo pairs oak with brushed steel, the Boston mixes zebrawood with metal, and the London comes in zebrawood or red sandalwood with steel.
Compare the whole range in our wooden watch buyer's guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is a wooden watch better than a metal watch?
Neither is better overall. Wooden watches are lighter, warmer and more distinctive; metal watches are better for water and heavy use.
Are wooden watches lighter than metal watches?
Yes. Wood is much lighter than a steel bracelet, which is one of the main reasons people choose one.
Can I get a watch that mixes wood and metal?
Yes. Our Oslo, Boston and London mix wood with steel or metal for a modern look with some warmth.
Are wooden watches as durable as metal?
For everyday wear, yes. The difference is water: wooden watches are splashproof only, so they're not for swimming.
Got a question we haven't answered? Get in touch. We're a small family team in Stourbridge and we do reply.
James
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