Sure, your next timepiece could be something run-of-the-mill.
But where’s the fun in that?
One of the easiest ways to start a conversation is to slap on an off-beat timepiece. Sure, you’ve got an amazing personality, but why not show it off with a watch that speaks for you?
If you’re looking for some wrist-candy that’s unlike anything you’ve seen before, check out five of our favorite unique watches for men.
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5 Most Unique Men’s Watches
1. UNDONE X Popeye
UNDONE is our go-to brand for unique watch collaborations. Their founder was one of the world’s foremost Rolex repairmen before striking out with his own watch brand.
Because of that, many of the designs you’ll see from UNDONE (like the Basecamp Cali below) are heavily influenced by some of the most beloved Rolex models.
But the UNDONE X Popeye is a whole different story.
With the famous sailor taking center stage, this automatic movement timepiece is a must for collectors, fans of nostalgia, and pop-culture aficionados.
What I Like
This watch is based on UNDONE’s Basecamp model, which is unique in its own right. Beyond that, it’s beautiful and impressive from a horological perspective.
The Popeye hands are meticulously crafted, and the dial offers a lot of contrast.
The automatic movement is reliable and there’s plenty of water resistance.
What I Don’t Like
There’s a limit to only 300 pieces per colorway.
What Other Reviewers Say
The UNDONE X Popeye collaboration is a new timepiece, and there aren’t any reviews live at the time of writing.
But the core and quality of the watch is the same as the UNDONE Basecamp, which has over 180 reviews with an average of 4.9 stars.
Many of the reviewers are coming back for their second or third watch, which says something. A few stars were knocked off due to a longer shipping time, which can take up to two weeks.
The Verdict
Throw back a can of spinach and flex those muscles. UNDONE X Popeye is a highly unusual watch, and if you’re a fan of the world’s favorite sailor-man, this timepiece is a must.
As with all UNDONE watches, expect a high-quality watch that’s affordable considering the materials. The only question you need to answer is how far outside the box you’re willing to go with your watch.
With an anchor in the novelty/nostalgia space and a salute to the French Navy, this steel link, Japanese-automatic, domed crystal watch is sure to turn heads.
2. Vincero Vessel
With so many dive watches on the market, you’d think the genre was played out.
Not even close.
The
What I Like
200m of water resistance makes this a legitimate dive watch.
With materials like sapphire crystal and a Japanese quartz movement, this watch is reliable.
The two crown design is uncommon.
What I Don’t Like
The case is designed in a way where the watch only really looks right with its silicone strap—other straps look a little weak.
What Other Reviewers Say
With over 30 reviews at an average of 4.9-stars, the most common complaint is in removing the silicone strap. Otherwise, folks are happy with the look and heft of this chunky dive watch.
The Verdict
Dive watches have long been staples of a manly-man’s wardrobe. But that doesn’t mean you have to get the same thing everyone else has.
The Vincero Vessel gives you that same masculine vibe, decks you out with quality materials, and does so at a fair price.
The Vessel puts a unique Vincero spin on classic dive watches. Rated at 200m water resistance and outfitted with a sapphire crystal, the Vessel marks a big leap in Vincero’s overall build quality.
3. Nordgreen Pioneer
Nordgreen makes Danish minimalist masterpieces. We’ve been following the brand for years now, and to be honest, we’re a little resentful of their joyful, carefree Copenhagen attitudes. Riding bikes, using their profits to give back to the world—they’re making us all look bad.
The Pioneer is designed by the legendary designer, Jakob Wagner, the creative force behind many of Bang & Olufsen’s most famous pieces.
With a smooth, dynamic, and flowing dial, and elements that refer to Nordgreen’s commitment to a green, clean future for the environment, the Pioneer is a functional piece of art.
What I Like
The dial is beautiful. The subdials, raised bezel, and domed crystal create a ton of depth.
Choose between several case colors and dial colors for a ton of variety.
When you buy from Nordgreen, you can donate to one of three amazing causes.
What I Don’t Like
Because the Pioneer is designed with a minimalist aesthetic, the style negates a lot of the functionality of the chronograph.
What Other Reviewers Say
The Pioneer has a 4.8-star average with over 1,300 reviews. Positive comments usually relate to the style, but there are plenty of happy reviewers chiming in on Nordgreen’s customer service and commitment to giving back.
The Verdict
Chronograph watches are usually packed to the gills with indices, markers, features, etc.
So what happens when you strip all that away? When it’s done well, you get a dynamic timepiece with a ton of depth. Sure, the Pioneer from Nordgreen isn’t as functional as some of it’s chronograph cousins. But if you’re in the market for a clean, unusual watch, the Pioneer is a great find.
The Nordgreen Pioneer is an innovative take on the chronograph watch. Built like a classic aviator, but with modern Scandinavian design principles, this timepiece looks natural and elegant—and it pairs well in a casual and smart-casual wardrobe.
4. UNDONE Basecamp Cali
Look familiar?
The UNDONE Basecamp Cali is similar to the Popeye X UNDONE collaboration we featured up above, except without the buff sailor in the center of the dial.
While the Popeye watch is a limited edition, the Basecamp Cali is a mainstay—and a handsome one at that.
Based on the classic Rolex California dial, this timepiece has a mix of Roman and Arabic numerals (apparently to make it easier to read under water). Subtle details like a waffle-etch in the dial and a domed acrylic crystal make this timepiece stand out in a crowd.
What I Like
The acrylic crystal has a steep dome to it, which makes it far different from most other watches.
The California dial design has an interesting history and an eye-catching look.
The hands have a sweeping motion with 3 hacks per second.
What I Don’t Like
The power reserve isn’t incredible, but I usually reset my automatic watches every time I wear them, anyway.
What Other Reviewers Say
With over 180 reviews, the UNDONE Basecamp Cali is rocking a 4.9-star average. As I mentioned earlier, there are a lot of repeat customers throughout the reviews.
UNDONE is building a cult-reputation for themselves with their affordable automatic pieces. There was only one negative review (out of 180+), and it mentioned the long shipping time. It’s true—the brand is based in Hong Kong and shipping can take a few weeks, so keep that in mind if you’re shopping for gifts.
The Verdict
If you’re looking for an everyday watch that’s got a ton of unique flair but isn’t outrageous, check out the UNDONE Basecamp Cali. The California style dial and hands are reminiscent of Rolex watches, and the open-window caseback and domed crystal make for a stunning timepiece.
I was impressed already with UNDONE's homage to vintage Rolex designs, and the Basecamp Cali takes that same concept to the next level.
5. REC RWB Rotana
The Porsche 911 is a classic car. Legendary, even.
So what happens when you take a timeless design and completely change it. Well, some people call you a heretic, and others heap on praise. In any case, you become infamous.
That’s what happened to Akira Nakai-San, the founder of RWB—the world’s most popular Porsche tuning company. REC Watches, a Copenhagen-based brand, paid homage to him with their limited edition RWB Rotana watch.
The design of the watch mimics Nakai-San’s signature stamps well, and the dial is cut from the frame of his Rotana Porsche.
What I Like
This watch is well-planned and executed—each design aspect pays homage to RWB Porsche’s in a clever, thoughtful way.
The REC RWB Rotana is a luxury watch—a big, beefy one at that.
Complex Japanese automatic movement with an interesting power-reserve indicator that’s unlike any watch I’ve seen.
What I Don’t Like
At over $1,000, the price can be prohibitive for many.
What Other Reviewers Say
There aren’t a ton of reviews for the RWB Rotana, but that’s just because there aren’t a lot of watches available. Still, REC has racked up over 25 reviews for this timepiece and they average 4.6-stars.
The Verdict
For fans of RWB Porsche’s, this watch is an easy decision. The meticulously thought-out design and the top-quality materials make this luxury watch a solid buy for watch lovers and car lovers alike.
Expect the REC RWB Rotana to set you back money-wise, but if this timepiece is speaking to you, the price is justified.
Based on the design by legendary Porsche tuner, Akira Nakai-San, the REC 901 RWB Rotana is a tribute to the legacy of street racing.
I Told You, Didn’t I?
You came looking for unique watches. Well, these one-of-a-kind pieces fit the bill, don’t you agree?
From novelty cartoon timepieces like the UNDONE X Popeye to watches built from recycled car parts, you’d have to do a lot of digging before finding anything like these.
I’m always on the hunt for new, unique looking wrist-candy and when I find something worth sharing, I always put it on our Instagram. Head over and follow us @theadultman.
Do you have a unique timepiece? Let me know in the DM’s what you’ve got. I look forward to chatting with you there.
FAQs
What are cool watches for guys?
Cool watches can mean so many things, but if you’re looking for something special and unique, we recommend checking out UNDONE first. For a more straight-up masucline vibe, look at Vincero.
