Movado is a modern-luxury watch brand known for minimalist design, the iconic single-dot “Museum” dial, and accessible Swiss craftsmanship that appeals to buyers who want style, status, and art-inspired design without jumping into ultra-high-end prices. A lot of people appreciate Movado's blend of design, value, and accessibility, which gives the brand broad appeal and results in frequent positive opinions from both collectors and casual wearers. Founded in 1881 and literally named for “always in motion,” Movado sits in a sweet spot between fashion and traditional Swiss watchmaking, making it a strong choice for everyday luxury, dress watches, and design-forward collectors.
Movado brand story
Movado’s roots trace back to 1881, when Achille Ditesheim opened a small workshop in La Chaux‑de‑Fonds, Switzerland, at just 19 years old. In 1905, the company adopted the name “Movado,” derived from Esperanto and meaning “always in motion,” signaling a focus on innovation and forward-looking design rather than old-world ornamentation.
Over the decades, Movado built a reputation for sleek, modern aesthetics and technical experimentation, eventually becoming part of Movado Group, Inc., which now oversees multiple brands and licenses including Coach, Hugo Boss, Lacoste, and Tommy Hilfiger watches. This umbrella structure lets Movado preserve its own design-driven identity at the top of the portfolio while also capturing broader fashion-watch audiences through licensed lines.
Movado Group, Inc. manages a number of brands and employs over 1,100 people worldwide, highlighting its significant scale in the watch industry.
The Movado Group
The Movado Group stands as a powerhouse in the world of luxury watches, with a legacy originating in Switzerland and a reputation for blending timeless style with innovative motion. As the parent company behind some of the most recognized brands in horology—including Movado, EBEL, Concord, Olivia Burton, and MVMT—the Movado Group has shaped the way people around the world view and wear watches.
Central to the company’s identity is the iconic Museum Watch, a classic design that features a single dot at 12 o’clock, symbolizing the sun at high noon. This minimalist masterpiece, created by Nathan George Horwitt, became a global icon and a permanent fixture in the museum world. After Horwitt’s death, Movado started heavy promotion of the Museum Watch, and in 1975, Movado finally settled with Horwitt’s estate, making a significant payment to secure the rights to this legendary design. Movado actively promoted both Horwitt and Horwitt's death as part of the brand's heritage and authenticity, emphasizing the significance of his contribution to the Museum Watch design. This move allowed the company to continue creating and marketing the Museum Watch as a signature piece, further cementing its status as a design classic.
Today, under the leadership of CEO Efraim Grinberg, the Movado Group continues to innovate, expanding its collection with new products and styles that appeal to a wide range of tastes. Whether you’re drawn to the art-inspired lines of the Museum Watch, the contemporary flair of Olivia Burton, or the modern edge of MVMT, there’s a Movado Group brand to suit every outfit and occasion. The company’s commitment to quality and design is evident in every watch they create, making them a top choice for those who value both form and function.
For those looking to buy or find their next timepiece, the Movado Company Store offers a convenient way to explore the full range of products, often featuring exclusive deals and promotions. As a recognized leader in the industry, the Movado Group’s influence extends far beyond Switzerland, with its watches worn and admired by people across the globe. To discover more about the company, its brands, and its iconic designs, visit their official page or continue to read on for a deeper dive into what makes Movado a true icon in the world of watches.
Key Movado collections today
Movado’s catalog covers everything from ultra-minimal dress pieces to bolder, fashion-forward designs, with quartz and automatic options across men’s, women’s, and unisex lines. Some of the standout families frequently highlighted by retailers and reviewers include the Museum Classic, SE Automatic, the vibrant BOLD series, and more fashion-oriented pieces like the Moda and BOLD Quest.
- Museum Classic: A direct descendant of the original Museum dial, often in slim stainless cases with understated straps or bracelets, ideal for formal or office wear.
- SE Automatic: Sportier, with integrated-style bracelets and automatic movements that appeal to enthusiasts who want mechanical Swiss heritage with Movado design.
- BOLD / BOLD Evolution / BOLD Quest: Contemporary designs using larger cases, colorful accents, ion-plated finishes, and trend-driven styling aimed at younger or fashion-forward buyers.
- Artist Series & collaborations: Limited runs, such as the Derrick Adams collaboration, frame Movado watches and even wall clocks as limited “wearable art” with a specific number of numbered pieces and gallery ties, emphasizing their exclusivity.
Why do people choose Movado
Movado attracts buyers who value minimalist design, recognizable branding, and the idea of wearing an object with art and design pedigree rather than just a tool. Clean dials, slim profiles, and versatile colorways let Movado pieces move easily between business, formal events, and elevated casual outfits without clashing with clothes or accessories.
There is also a clear status and lifestyle dimension: boutique positioning, Swiss-made markings on many models, and the Museum dial’s museum connections all signal taste and sophistication without shouting through oversized logos or busy complications. For gift-givers, Movado often sits in the “milestone” category—popular for graduations, promotions, anniversaries, and especially as a gift in January to mark New Year's milestones or new beginnings—because it feels special and timeless but is still attainable compared with high-end Swiss icons.
Are Movado watches “luxury”?
Industry voices often describe Movado as “accessible luxury” or “modern luxury,” occupying a tier above mass-market fashion brands but below high-horology and enthusiast darlings like Rolex, Omega, or Patek Philippe. Prestigious Swiss watchmakers such as Vacheron Constantin are often cited as examples of exceptional craftsmanship, historical significance, and luxury status, setting a benchmark for traditional high-end watchmaking that contrasts with Movado’s more accessible luxury positioning. The brand offers Swiss movements, strong finishing for the price, and award-winning design, but most models are not intended as investment-grade pieces whose resale values climb significantly over time.
Analyses of resale and value retention show that while Movado has solid brand prestige and is satisfying to own, its watches typically do not hold or grow in value like more exclusive mechanical-luxury brands. Enthusiasts often point out that vintage Movado—from mid‑20th‑century chronographs and triple‑date moonphase models—can offer surprisingly high horological interest and quality at relatively accessible prices compared with some vintage Swiss competitors.
Positioning overview
Aspect | Movado | Typical high-end Swiss (e.g., Rolex) | Fashion brands (e.g., licensed lines) |
|---|---|---|---|
Core identity | Minimalist art-inspired Swiss brand. | Prestige tool/luxury watchmakers. | Style-first accessories tied to fashion houses. |
Main strengths | Design, recognition, versatility, attainability. | Engineering, heritage, resale, enthusiast cachet. | Trend-driven looks and branding reach. |
Value retention | Generally modest; more “wear and enjoy.” | Often strong in popular models. | Typically low, similar or below Movado. |
Who Movado is best for
Movado suits buyers who prioritize sleek aesthetics, design history, and everyday wearability over movement complexity or collector-grade investment value. Professionals who want a clean, upscale watch that sits comfortably under a cuff, as well as minimalists who dislike cluttered dials, often find Movado especially appealing.
For enthusiasts, Movado can be a gateway into Swiss watch ownership or a design-focused addition alongside more traditional tool or dive watches. For gift shoppers, it offers a safe, broadly appreciated choice that communicates success, taste, and a nod to modern art without demanding ultra-luxury budgets.
Quality and Craftsmanship
Movado’s reputation for quality and craftsmanship is rooted in its Swiss heritage, with every watch originating from a tradition of excellence that has made Switzerland recognized as the world’s premier watchmaking hub. The company’s commitment to minimalist design and innovative motion is evident in every timepiece, from the iconic Museum Watch—famed for its solitary dot at 12 o’clock symbolizing the sun at high noon—to the contemporary styles found across the Movado Group’s diverse brands.
Attention to detail is a hallmark of Movado, with each watch designed to be both beautiful and durable. The Museum Watch, a classic in the collection, stands as a testament to Movado’s ability to create products that are not only visually striking but also built to last. This dedication to quality is why so many people around the world continue to wear Movado watches for years, appreciating their timeless style and reliable performance.
The Movado Company Store offers a wide selection of these classic and modern designs, making it easy to find the perfect watch for any outfit or occasion. Whether you’re drawn to the art-inspired Museum Watch, the sophisticated offerings from Olivia Burton, or another standout from the Movado Group, you’ll find a number of options that reflect the company’s passion for design and innovation.
Movado’s CEO has emphasized the brand’s mission to create watches that blend form and function, ensuring each piece is as practical as it is stylish. This philosophy has helped Movado become a leader in the watch industry, with products that are recognized and admired on a global scale. When you buy a Movado, you’re investing in a piece of design history—one that will continue to inspire and endure for a long time to come.
Movado Museum Classic Watch - Swiss Quartz Movement, Calfskin Strap - 3 ATM Water Resistance - Classic, Luxury Fashion Timepiece for Him - 40mm
- Movado products represent the epitome of the Movado ethos—fusing iconic modern design with quality craftsmanship to create timeless watches.
- It’s time you owned a masterpiece The Movado Museum Classic is an icon of modern design, featured in museums worldwide and renown for the elegant simplicity of the dial—defined by a single dot at 12 o’clock, a design element that symbolizes the sun at high noon. In this style, we’ve paired a 40mm case in yellow goldtone PVD stainless steel with a black burst textured dial—outfitted with our signature dot and slender hands in matching golden hues—and a luxurious black saffiano leather strap.
- Refined Swiss Engineering: The quartz watch movement is powered by a battery. The quartz movement provides precise timekeeping and requires minimal maintenance, making it a reliable and worry-free timepiece.
- Caring for Your Timepiece: Like any finely crafted mechanism, your Movado watch requires periodic maintenance to ensure optimal performance. A maintenance interval of 3 to 5 years is recommended, in addition to any required battery replacement. Never open the watch yourself.
Movado Series 800 Sport Watch - Swiss Quartz Movement, Stainless Steel Link Bracelet - 20 ATM Water Resistance - Luxury Fashion Timepiece for Him - Diver-Inspired - 40mm
- Movado products represent the epitome of the Movado ethos—fusing iconic modern design with quality craftsmanship to create timeless watches.
- Men's Series 800, stainless steel and rose gold PVD case and link bracelet, blue dial with index.
- Refined Swiss Engineering: The quartz watch movement is powered by a battery. The quartz movement provides precise timekeeping and requires minimal maintenance, making it a reliable and worry-free timepiece.
- Caring for Your Timepiece: Like any finely crafted mechanism, your Movado watch requires periodic maintenance to ensure optimal performance. A maintenance interval of 3 to 5 years is recommended, in addition to any required battery replacement. Never open the watch yourself.
- Water Resistance: Up to 200 meters (20 ATM) This watch can withstand water pressure up to 200 meters and is suitable for all high-impact water sports, including scuba diving at depths that don't require helium gas.
Movado Bold Fusion Watch - Swiss Quartz Chronograph Movement, Silicone Strap - 5 ATM Water Resistance - Luxury Fashion Timepiece for Him - 44.50mm
- Discover the future of modern design. The BOLD Collection is defined by unexpected materials, vibrant colors, and a dynamic aesthetic.
- The BOLD Fusion Chronograph brings a bold, sporty case to retro-futurist design. This 44mm chronograph watch features a blue dial, military grey subdials, and Swiss Super-LumiNova accents.
- Quartz Chronograph Movement: Battery-powered timepiece combining stopwatch functionality with a regular time display. Features an independent sweep second hand that can be started, stopped, and reset to zero with successive presses of the crown.
- Caring for your timepiece: Your Movado watch has been developed with meticulous attention to quality, function and detail. A maintenance interval of 3 to 5 years is recommended, in addition to any required battery replacement. Never open the watch yourself.
- Water Resistant: Up to 50m (165ft): Wearable for short periods of recreational swimming and showering, but not diving or snorkeling; 5 ATM.
Movado Bold Verso Sport Watch - Swiss Quartz Chronograph Movement, Ceramic Link Bracelet - 5 ATM Water Resistance - Luxury Fashion Timepiece for Him - 44mm
- Reimaging the sport watch with sleek design that combines modern minimalism with a bold edge.
- This statement-making 44mm case is paired with an ultra-contemporary ceramic bracelet, all in monochromatic white with yellow goldtone ion-plated accents. The tonal chronograph dial features our iconic dot motif at 12:00, a date window, three subdials, and Swiss Super-LumiNova accents framed by a tachymeter bezel.
- Refined Swiss Engineering: Quartz movement provides precise timekeeping and minimal maintenance for a reliable and worry-free timepiece.
- Exclusive Styling in K1 Crystal: K1 mineral crystal is the most common crystal used in designer watches and more scratch-resistant than regular mineral crystal. It's even more shatter-resistant than sapphire crystal.
- Caring for Your Timepiece: Like any finely crafted mechanism, your Movado watch requires periodic maintenance to ensure optimal performance. A maintenance interval of 3 to 5 years is recommended, in addition to any required battery replacement. Never open the watch yourself.
Movado Bold TR90 Luxury Chronograph Watch - Swiss Quartz Movement, Silicone Strap, Water Resistance 30 Meters (3ATM) - Sporty Timepiece - Gift for Him - 43.5mm
- Ultra-modern design with a sporty edge.
- Crafted from innovative TR90 in cool black, this contemporary timepiece boasts a statement-making 43.5mm case. Its black and bronze-colored chronograph dial features three subdials, black Swiss Super-LumiNova accents, and a date window. A luxe cognac leather strap completes the design.
- Refined Swiss Engineering: Quartz movement provides precise timekeeping and minimal maintenance for a reliable and worry-free timepiece.
- Exclusive Styling in K1 Crystal: K1 mineral crystal is the most common crystal used in designer watches and more scratch-resistant than regular mineral crystal. It's even more shatter-resistant than sapphire crystal.
- Caring for Your Timepiece: Like any finely crafted mechanism, your Movado watch requires periodic maintenance to ensure optimal performance. A maintenance interval of 3 to 5 years is recommended, in addition to any required battery replacement. Never open the watch yourself.
Resale Value
When it comes to resale value, Movado watches stand out as a smart choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike. The brand’s classic designs, especially the Museum Watch, have become highly sought after in the world of horology. After Movado finally settled with Nathan George Horwitt’s estate in 1975 and began heavy promotion of the Museum Watch following Horwitt’s death, the model’s popularity soared, cementing its place as a recognized icon and boosting its long-term value.
Movado’s enduring style and reputation for quality mean that their watches are not only a pleasure to wear but also a wise investment. Many classic pieces from the collection, available through the Movado Company Store, are known to retain their value and can even appreciate over time, making them a great addition to any watch collection. The company’s global recognition and the broad appeal of its products ensure that Movado watches are easy to buy, sell, or trade, whether you’re looking to refresh your collection or pass on a timeless piece.
With a lot of products spanning various brands under the Movado Group umbrella—including EBEL, Concord, and more—there’s a wide range of options for those seeking a watch that combines style, craftsmanship, and lasting value. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer, Movado’s commitment to quality and its recognized status in the museum and watchmaking world make it a brand you can trust for both enjoyment and investment over time. For the best selection and to explore the full collection, visit the Movado Company Store page and discover why so many people continue to choose Movado.
FAQs about Movado Watches
Are Movado watches good quality?
Yes. Movado uses quality materials such as stainless steel, sapphire crystal, and reliable Swiss quartz or automatic movements, offering solid everyday durability and accurate timekeeping for most wearers.
Are Movado watches considered luxury?
Movado typically sits in the “accessible” or “modern luxury” tier: more premium than most fashion brands, but below high-end Swiss houses focused on complex mechanical movements and strong investment value.
Do Movado watches hold their value?
Most Movado models do not appreciate and tend to have modest resale values compared with more exclusive mechanical brands, so they are best bought to wear and enjoy rather than as investments.
Are Movado watches overpriced?
Some reviewers argue that certain lines, especially higher-priced quartz or fashion-forward models, compete in a price bracket where other brands may offer more complex movements or features for the money.
Who are Movado watches best for?
Movado is ideal for buyers who care more about minimalist, art-inspired design and everyday versatility than about complications, movement intricacy, or collector-grade value retention.
Are Movado watches “fashion watches”?
Enthusiasts are split: some categorize Movado as a design-led fashion brand, while others point to its Swiss roots, heritage pieces, and higher-end lines as evidence of a more serious watchmaker with strong design DNA.
Is quartz a downside on Movado watches?
For purist collectors, the dominance of quartz in Movado’s lineup is a drawback, but for casual owners it means low-maintenance reliability, with only periodic battery replacements required.
How much do Movado watches cost?
Most current Movado watches fall roughly in the mid hundreds to low thousands, with many popular models in the 500–1,500‑dollar range and some higher-end or automatic pieces priced above that.
Are Movado watches suitable for daily wear?
Yes. With their slim profiles, minimalist faces, and generally robust build, Movado models are widely used as daily office and dress watches that pair well with business, smart casual, and evening outfits.
Is it better to buy Movado new or pre-owned?
Because value retention is modest, many enthusiasts recommend shopping sales or certified pre-owned to maximize value, especially for higher-priced models.
Final Thoughts
Movado fills a distinct niche as an art-forward Swiss brand that prioritizes iconic design and clean aesthetics over technical showmanship, making its watches feel like wearable modern art for everyday life. For buyers who want a recognizable, design-driven watch that signals taste and refinement without ultra-luxury pricing, Movado delivers strong appeal, especially when purchased thoughtfully through discounts or pre-owned channels to offset softer long-term resale value. Order today!
