What Hand Do You Wear a Watch On?

When does wearing a watch stop being just part of a man’s wardrobe and become more a part of his being? This burning question has many layers, starting with the type of watch one chooses. Diver or field watch? Leather strap or NATO? Perhaps the first essential question any budding watch enthusiast asks is, “Which hand is the correct one to wear my watch on?” While the question is valid, the answer is very much subjective. 

One must consider practicality and comfort when wearing a watch, so choosing the wrist to wear your timepiece is not only an aesthetic decision but also one of functionality. So fret not! There are no complex rules in this wide world of watches—the person wearing the piece decides which hand it goes on. Left wrist, right wrist, even double wrist—the choice comes down to what’s comfortable and stylish for you.

What Wrist Does a Man Wear a Watch On?

History shows that, due to the majority of the population being right-hand dominant, watches “should” be worn on the left wrist. Whether it be 18th-century aristocrats or fountain pen connoisseurs of the 20th century, the notion has been passed down that wearing a watch on your dominant hand will get in the way of daily activities and risk potentially damaging the watch.

Considering the fact that 90% of the world is right-handed, it’s no surprise that the “norm” is to wear the watch on the left wrist. But “norms” aren’t rules, and when it comes to watches, one must wear them in a way that best suits them. I’m right-handed and wear my watches on my left wrist since I’m typing, writing, or using a mouse during my workday. 

On the other hand, my dad, who works on plane engines, wears his watch on his dominant right hand. He’s always found it more comfortable for reasons I’ll never fully understand.

Things to Consider When Choosing Which Wrist to Wear a Watch

Most watches are made with right-handers in mind, meaning that the crown and other controls are on the right side of the watch, making it easier to wear on the left wrist. Setting the time with your watch on your right hand could force you into an uncomfortable position while trying to use the crown. It’s important to remember that a watch is also a tool. 

If you wear a watch daily, you should wear it efficiently and according to your surroundings. Wearing a watch on your dominant hand increases the risk of it bumping into something or getting scratched, whereas the non-dominant hand is typically used less, reducing that risk.

Best “Destro” Watches for Lefties

The watch market has traditionally catered more to its right-handed audience. That was until companies started thinking of the 10% of left-handed watch lovers who dreamt of a more comfortable watch-wearing experience. Left-handed watches, or “destro,” which is Italian for “right,” were designed for those who prefer wearing their pieces on the right wrist by placing the crown and functions on the left. Here are the best “destro” watches for lefties.

Rolex GMT-Master II (ref. 126720VTNR)

Rolex’s contribution to the “destro” community debuted in 2022, leaving audiences in awe. Quickly nicknamed the “Sprite,” this left-hand-drive watch comes with a green and black bezel and everything else you’d expect from a Rolex GMT II: an automatic 3285 movement with a 72-hour power reserve. The main difference is that the crown and date display are placed at 9 o’clock for better access when wearing them on the right hand. It’s an absolute gem of a watch, especially when paired with a jubilee bracelet, with prices starting at around $18,000 after retail.

Tudor Pelagos LHD (ref. M25610TNL-0001) 

An essential dive watch for lefties, the Tudor Pelagos LHD features a 42-mm titanium case, a unidirectional rotating matte black ceramic bezel with 60-minute markers, a black dial, and Tudor’s signature snowflake hands. Starting at $5,000, this watch includes a special clasp that adjusts on the wrist depending on the depth, a helium escape valve, and 500 meters of water resistance.

TAG Heuer Monaco Lefty (ref. CAW211P.FC6356)

We can never be as cool as Steve McQueen, but you can come close by getting the limited-edition TAG Heuer Monaco Lefty worn by McQueen himself in the 1971 movie Le Mans. This 39mm square-cased chronograph is a unique marvel in racing watches. It has a beautiful blue dial with silver and red accents, held together by a black leather strap. It’s available on the TAG Heuer website for $8,100.

Zenith El Primero Pilot Lefty Chronograph (ref. 03.2117.4002/23.C704): 

Like lefties themselves, Zenith El Primero Pilot Lefty Chronograph watches are rare. In fact, finding a price online for this limited-edition piece is nearly impossible. It’s a 42mm Pilot edition of the El Primero series with a large black dial and a date marker at the 6 o’clock position. The El Primero Pilot Lefty was the first of its kind for Zenith, released in 2011, and hasn’t been re-released since. But it’s still a sought-after watch that has critics and fans yearning for Zenith to revive it.

Oris Aquis Red Limited Edition (ref. 01 733 7653 4183-Set RS): 

Oris has a philosophy that reads, “Swiss watchmaking for everyone,” and they doubled down on that statement by releasing the Aquis Red Limited Edition. This special edition watch was made for left-handed dive watch lovers at a modest price of $2,000. The Aquis Red Limited Edition comes in a 43mm stainless steel case with a unidirectional rotating black ceramic bezel with red accents, a black dial with white and red markers, and a bright lume that solidifies its status as a dive watch. With 300-meter water resistance, Oris has had collectors clawing at the chance to add this now-discontinued piece to their collections.

In Short

The watch itself is a personal preference, and the hand on which you choose to wear it is also up to you. The unwritten rules are just that—unwritten. There’s no point in following a guide on wearing a watch if it doesn’t feel comfortable on your wrist. Let your personality shine through the watch. Perhaps you’re the classic man who wears it on his left hand. Maybe you want to break the mold and rock the watch on your right wrist. There will be no gasps or nasty looks, I promise. For the lefty community, there are some fantastic watch options. But remember this: no watch is exclusive to a specific hand; wear your watch as you please.