Skip to main content

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

Black watches for men are classic, and these are our favorites

Black watches for men are trending, here's our favorites

Longines Legend Diver on model
Longines

Black watches for men are a true classic, but different from their blue counterparts, they’re much more intense. Much like Batman or Darth Vader, black watches bear a certain power that will give you that same aura as soon as you slide one onto your wrist. Imagine James Bond’s suave demeanor but on your own arm. Each glance down to check the time brings with it an enigmatic, conspiratorial vibe.

While other timepieces tend to scream for attention, especially the colorful or extremely complicated, black watches for men lurk in the shadows, not being loud and silently boosting your style quotient. Plus, if you’ve ever wished you could be in a spy movie à la 007, you’ll be halfway there with one of these TAG Heuer or Bulgari watches on your wrist.

Recommended Videos

Black watches for men: An air of mystery

Bulgari Octo Finissimo Ceramic on model
Bulgari

Next time you strap on your black Swatch or Hamilton watch, don’t let it surprise you if you start hearing the James Bond theme song playing in your ear. We’ve curated a list of the absolute best black watches for men on the market right now, so hang up your tuxedo jackets, and let’s get started.

1. Swatch Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms “Ocean of Storms”

Swatch Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms "Ocean of Storms"
Swatch

If you’ve ever fancied yourself the kind of spy who dives down deep into the depths of the ocean, then the Swatch Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms “Ocean of Storms” is absolutely suited to you. Made from bioceramic material, this watch is 43mm with a dial that features a mesmerizing gradient effect, evoking the turbulence of the sea on a dark and stormy night. It features luminescent hands and hour markers for readability in those dark underwater caverns and comes equipped with a unidirectional rotating bezel and 200 meters water resistance. Completing the look is a bioceramic bracelet that is seamlessly integrated into the case.

2. Hamilton Khaki Field Titanium Auto

Hamilton Khaki Field Titanium Auto watch
Hamilton

While we tend to think of black watches for men as being incredibly sleek and sophisticated, some of them act as the perfect companion for a rugged adventure, and the Hamilton Khaki Field Titanium Auto watch fits that description to a T. Encased in a 42mm titanium body, this watch is real tough, but unlike several of its sporty counterparts, you’ll forget it’s even on your wrist. It’s powered by the H-10 caliber, an automatic movement with an 80-hour power reserve. While the dial and strap are certainly black, it’s a beacon during the darkest of nights with luminescent numerals and hands. Additionally, it has a decent water resistance of 100 meters.

3. Longines Legend Diver

Longines Legend Diver
Longines

This black men’s watch doesn’t exactly give off ninja or spy movie vibes, but it most definitely has a timeless elegance, which is simply another facet of the color. The Longines Legend Diver pays homage to classic mid-20th-century vintage dive watches. It features a 42mm stainless steel case with a rich black dial accented by luminous hour markers and hands. The unidirectional rotating bezel is adorned with a striking black ceramic insert which definitely enhances its dive functionality, but also just looks aesthetically pleasing. Earning its name, this watch is water resistant up to 300 meters and is powered by the L888 caliber automatic movement.

Longines Legend Diver

4. TAG Heuer Aquaracer

TAG Heuer Aquaracer
TAG Heuer

If you’ve ever said to yourself, “Hey, I would love a watch that can take me from the office to my hobbies on the weekend,” then look no further than the TAG Heuer Aquaracer. While black watches for men often appear more mysterious, this one puts it all out there with a 40mm stainless steel case, a ceramic unidirectional rotating bezel, and luminescent markers and hands. This watch is powered by a Swiss quartz movement and has a water resistance of 300 meters. But what really makes it versatile is the black rubber strap, combining functionality and aesthetics.

5. Bulgari Octo Finissimo Ceramic Black

Bulgari Octo Finissimo Ceramic
Bulgari

When you think of black watches for men, it’s likely you think of something sleek, mysterious, and sophisticated; the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Ceramic Black watch fits this description entirely. It features a cutting-edge design, with an ultra-thin 40mm case that is just 5.50mm thick and made from black ceramic. Within, the Octo Finissimo is powered by the in-house BVL 138 automatic movement with a 60-hour power reserve. Different from many black watches on the market, the Octo Finissimo features an open case back, meaning you can take a peek at the inner workings. As for the look, this is a highly minimalist watch that is literally all black, right down to the hour markers and hands.

Choosing the right black watch

Swatch Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms "Ocean of Storms" dial
Swatch

Black watches for men are quite a style statement, so you’ll want to find one that gives you confidence rather than doubt. A black watch can be completely black like the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Ceramic watch or a little sportier like the TAG Heuer Aquaracer. Of course, you’ll need to consider its purpose, whether that’s for formal occasions or outdoor activities. But, most importantly, make sure it matches your wardrobe and can be built into any outfit you wear on a daily basis.

Sarah Veldman
Sarah has been a freelance writer for over 7 years now, having started while she was living out of a suitcase and traveling…
Formal wear for men: Your complete guide for holiday gatherings
Look your best when everyone else is trying to
Man in a tux at a wedding holding a lit cigar

You may not realize it, but you need to upgrade your formal wear to be at the top of your game. When the holiday season comes around, you'll get invited to countless parties, get-togethers, and soirees. Many of them, at least nowadays, will be come as you are, meaning they don't really care what you wear and there's no specific dress code.

In the olden days, a party such as this was a formal event: tuxedo, bow tie, and your best behavior. While you may think we are beyond the days of The Great Gatsby, you, above others, as a loyal reader of The Manual, should know better. Everything comes back around, and you need to be ready with a deep knowledge of formal wear for men.

Read more
Patek Philippe reintroduces a discontinued watch — the Patek Philippe’s Ref. 5711
A new Patek Philippe's Ref. 5711 with a Maori pattern—something that's never been featured on the series before
Patek Philippe Ref. 5711

Founded in 1994, the Children Action foundation improves the lives of children through various projects funded by auction event proceeds. As a result, Patek Phillippe participates in the Children Action Gala every year by offering a high-quality watch to the foundation.

In 2024, the luxury watch brand reproduced Patek Philippe's Ref. 5711, which will be put up for auction on November 25th. Since its launch, the demand for this watch has always been high.

Read more
Zenith’s new Defy Extreme Diver offers a bold, fresh look with a white dial
A new Zenith Diver timepiece and a new stylish dial
Zenith Defy Extreme Diver

The first modern Zenith Defy timepiece debuted at the Watches and Wonders 2024 event in April 2024, and due to its modern features, it generated a lot of hype.

To live up to its reputation, the brand added another watch to the collection, the Zenith Defy Extreme Diver, which has a stylish white dial and is popularly known as the Zenith Defy Extreme Diver.

Read more