The world of luxury timepieces isn’t reserved for the mechanical variety, as smartwatches have come a long way in their own right. While the tech itself is what usually drives interest, you’d be surprised at how much style goes into the design of a smartwatch.

Many people love the versatility a smartwatch offers, from fitness tracking to GPS and changeable watch faces. While watch enthusiasts may look down on the likes of smartwatch technology, I feel many would be surprised to see just how sleek they can get.

Of course, it’s more than just design; technology matters just as much, if not more, in this case. For this article, I’m going to break down the details behind the 10 best smartwatches you can add to your collection.

The History of Smart Watches

Many people aren’t aware that digital watch tech dates back further than they might expect. The Pulsar P1 was introduced to the world in the early 1970s as an LED digital watch. You can easily say this made way for wearable tech as we know it today.

As the 1980s rolled around, Grand Seiko gave us the RC-1000, which came with computer connectivity. However, the first true wireless smartwatch made its way to market in 1994, a co-development from Microsoft. It had the capability of wireless data transfer and was called the Timex Datalink.

When the 2000s got started, the interest in smartwatches and tech wearables expanded rapidly. This can be seen in the IBM Linux-powered WatchPad and the likes of the Wrist PDA from Fossil. I remember when Microsoft introduced the SPOT, featuring integrated IoT, but it wasn’t successful with widespread adoption. Of course, I can’t talk about smartwatch technology without mentioning the Apple Watch, which landed on the market in 2015.

Even though there are plenty of mainstream smartwatches on the market, there are many other impressive ideas that never received the same spotlight. Nevertheless, I’ve found that the best of the best in smartwatch tech goes beyond what you might find on the surface.

Top 10 Smart Watches

When you’re looking at what smart tech has to offer in today’s market, it’s evident that there is more variety than you could sort through. In the same vein, the options below highlight everything you might want in high-end smartwatches.

1. Garmin Fenix 7X Pro Solar Edition Slate Gray with Black Band

This watch’s features are so dense there’s more than I could possibly mention here. The Fenix 7X Pro from Garmin comes with solar charging and an impressive run time because of it. I’m sold on the fact you get 37 days in smartwatch mode and over 120 hours with GPS mode. You’ll want to keep in mind that this is entirely dependent on the best possible sunlight conditions.

What made me want to look into this watch further is the design’s extensive approach to active lifestyles. This includes features like heart rhythm monitoring and endurance score, and it syncs with their Garmin ECG app.

For everyday life, the multi-band GPS and topographic maps ensure you always have eyes on the road and beyond. As far as aesthetics go, you get a durable 51mm case that features a 1.4-inch solar-charged display. I had to grab this watch as it’s going for $649.99, which is a $250 discount from its original price.

2. Apple Watch Ultra 2

While the brand name may be able to speak for itself, the specs are a lot more impressive, in my opinion. Offered in black titanium, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 includes a 3,000-nit display and other features like dust and water resistance.

The tech is pretty impressive, and what really shocks me is its capabilities when it comes to diving. Not only do you benefit from dual-frequency GPS and a long list of health applications, but the watch is also certified for diving up to 40m. This may not sound like much to some, but it’s more than enough for the everyday user.

Through the Vitals app, you’ll find features for ECG, notifications for sleep apnea, and many other metrics for personal health. It’s a long-term solution if you’re looking for wearable tech that seamlessly integrates with your day-to-day. You can grab the Apple Watch Ultra 2 starting at $799, and it varies based on customizations.

3. Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra

What drew my eyes to the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra is the fact it’s built with aerospace-grade titanium. Aside from the physical reliability, I find this to be a beautiful look for everyday wear. This includes the benefit of sapphire crystal glass, and it comes with a 10 ATM/IP68 rating. That means the watch can withstand water exposure and promises durability that’s military grade.

My own regular use of this watch has given me about 60 hours of run time, and with Power Saving mode, it’s closer to 100 hours. On top of this, the watch comes with Galaxy AI, offering wellness insights from heart rate to an Energy Score, for example.

Even if it isn’t a big factor in the tech itself, I really like the option for customizable bands. I also don’t have any issue syncing the watch with my smartphone, and its connection with Galaxy promises LTE functionality. I also feel like the watch sits at a fair price point of $649.99.

4. Garmin MARQ Commander Gen 2 – Carbon Edition

Another entry for Garmin, and rightfully so, as I couldn’t ignore the luxurious look of the MARQ Commander Gen 2. It’s engineered with 130 layers of fused carbon fiber, and the 46mm case dons a visible strength that looks great on the wrist.

You get an AMOLED screen that’s never hard to read, and I personally love the many features that keep the outdoors and tactical operations in mind. A few examples of this pertain to night vision goggle compatibility and ballistics solver for aiming solutions.

It’s clear the watch is perfect for outdoorsmen and operators who need multi-functional tech on a whim. Another angle that took my interest to another level is the watch’s approach to navigation. You get projected waypoints, a dual-position format, and a range of premium mapping features. 

Considering the powerhouse of tech included with this watch, it didn’t shock me to find that it’s listed at $3,200. Even though I don’t have much applicable use for this watch, I still can’t get over how well the technical aspects are.

5. Apple Watch Series 8 Aluminium

If you’re looking for a little variety in feature sets, taking a look at the Apple Watch Series 8 isn’t a bad idea. I’m a fan that they give you two options here between the base GPS model and the other which includes GPS and cellular.

Aside from that, the aluminum finish is a fan favorite for me, and you might be shocked at how much sensor tech is included with this watch. Blood oxygen, ECG, and third-gen optical heart sensors are a few leading examples.

Regarding performance, they’ve got me sold on the 64-bit dual-core processor, as well as the W3 and U1 Ultra Wideband chips. This is a major part of what gives this watch the performance and connectivity that we all want. 

On a full charge you’re looking at 18 hours of battery life, and it comes with a 100% recycled design, free of toxic materials. Although the watch retailed at $399, you can easily find it for $200 to $300 new nowadays.

6. Google Pixel Watch 3

With the option of a 41mm or 45mm display, the Google Pixel Watch 3 is as sleek as it is intuitive. Visibility is never an issue thanks to the 2,000 nits for brightness and an impressive 24-hour battery life. Even better, I’ve been able to get 36 hours out of it with Battery Saver mode on.

One of the first things I noticed was the many features included for fitness tracking. Some that stood out to me pertaining to the broad range of exercise routines, real-time guidance for your runs, and personalized workout plans.

As you might expect, the watch is compatible with Google Pixel phones. What I love about this is the camera control and AI-based call screening from the watch itself. I really don’t like grabbing my phone for every task so things like this will make me give smart watches a second look. Right now, you can find the Pixel Watch 3 at $50 off MSRP for $299.99.

7. Samsung Galaxy Watch 7

For Samsung users, it’s hard to overlook what the Galaxy Watch 7 brings to the table. Keep track of your personal Energy Score, in addition to a sizable range of other health insights. I feel like the watch gives me a full body scan with the amount of medical information it provides.

I definitely find it to be a watch that’s perfect for a more active lifestyle. Although the watch helps with various aspects of communication, many of its features cater to those who stay on the move. After a little time, I found myself having fun with the included gamification features as well.

This stems from things like badges for achievements, personalized feedback systems, and tracking the metrics of your progress. Aside from this, the watch’s design is very slim and neutral if you ask me. However, take note this watch does look more suitable for casual wear, as it isn’t the most luxurious looking design-wise. Depending on the size you choose, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 ranges from $299 to $329.

8. Apple Watch SE 2

Donning a beautiful LTPD OLED Retina display and up to 1,000 nits brightness, the Apple Watch SE 2 is a great middle-ground option. Sometimes, I find it difficult to keep up with every Apple release, and you never need the newest and brightest. That statement shines true when it comes to the SE due to its long-term viability.

It’s available in either a 40mm or 44mm aluminum case alongside multiple colorways such as midnight, starlight, and silver. Of course, you can always attach a colorful case of your own and switch out the bands whether you prefer something rubber, linked, or textile.

The tech inside the watch promises plenty of health monitoring, and the watch’s integration with other Apple products is what I appreciate the most. Notable safety features include SOS and even international emergency calling.

I find myself addicted to the watch’s navigation and UI, as it’s powered by the S8 SiP chip, on top of the Siri integration. So much of the watch functionality is hands-off that I start to feel like James Bond with how much I’m talking to my wrist. Based on the case size, the Apple Watch SE 2 goes from $249 to $279.

9. OnePlus Watch 2

Standing out in a lane of its own, the OnePlus Watch 2 catches my attention purely because it doesn’t stem from the other conglomerates. I was curious to see what made this watch unique, and after my hands-on experience, I saw why the watch would be popular.

First and foremost, I can’t get over the durable feel of the watch. It promises long-term use with a stainless steel chassis and sapphire crystal face to match. I want to point out that this includes 8+ Mohs hardness, and it’s military-grade tested for resistance to water, dust, and extreme temperatures.

In short, no matter where you go, this watch will keep operating. As I learned more about the watch, I was honestly impressed with what keeps it running. You can rely on the watch’s Snapdragon W5 and BES 2700 chipsets. I also love the extensive battery life on this watch, giving you up to 100 hours in Smart Mode and almost two weeks in Power Saver mode. For now, you can find the watch for $100 off, sitting at $199.

10. Garmin Fenix 7S Standard Edition Silver with Graphite Band

I always appreciate a blend of style and functionality, which is exactly what you get with the Garmin Fenix 7S Standard Edition. More specifically, the Silver and Graphite variant is perfect for multiple occasions. Whether you wear it every day or in more formal settings, this smartwatch blends in no matter where you go.

Once I’ve spent some time navigating the watch’s functionality and UI, I can see how it’s perfect for those interested in wellness and sports. This doesn’t take away from its premium design quality, though, as it delivers a professional look to the wrist.

I think most wearers would enjoy its multi-GNSS support for enhanced navigation, including TopoActive map and other popular integrations. If you live an active lifestyle, I’d advise you to take full advantage of the built-in sports and training tools as well. Considering the depth of this smartwatch, the asking price of $499 starts to make sense.

Final Thoughts

With a seemingly endless variety of smartwatch tech on the market, I can understand how hard it would be to narrow down your choices. Although this list may only contain a handful of suggestions, they deliver more than enough variety for you to choose from.

As always, if you ever feel stuck with your decision-making, working with Exquisite Timepieces can help streamline the process. This gives you the technical and hands-on knowledge you need to make the right choice for your wrist.