There are a lot of people in the watch enthusiast community that hate on Movado watches. These enthusiasts claim that quartz Movado watches are too expensive and that the company doesn't make enough mechanical watches to be legitimate with collectors. Other enthusiasts claim that Movado watches are too cheap and that they are sold in too many outlets to middle class consumers. They claim that department stores like Macy's are not high end enough for a Movado watch to be considered a luxury brand. All the conversational hubbub is enough to raise the question:
Are Movado Watches Luxurious?
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| A Movado Desk Clock |
The Cambridge Dictionary defines luxury as "something expensive that is pleasant to have, but is not necessary." A Movado watch definitely fits that bill. They look cool. Everyone recognizes the classic Museum dial design. They are expensive. For practical purposes, an inexpensive George-brand quartz watch will keep time just as well. And, no one really needs a Movado watch. At least not for a basic practical need. Watches like the Movado Museum Classic Automatic (below) scratch some deeper psychological itches.
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| Movado Museum Classic Automatic for Men (Amazon photo) |
The dial of the Museum Classic is one of the world's most recognizable watch designs. It's aesthetically pleasing to many and it is a triumphant combination of luxury and minimalism. It definitely brings a sense of art and style to the wrist.
Movado is also widely recognized as a premium watch among millions of middle-class American consumers. If you buy a Movado watch, you can certainly expect to get complimented on it and people who see you wear it will identify you as an upper middle class or even a rich person. While Movado watches may not be as expensive or exclusive as Rolex watches, they are definitely a status symbol. I can't afford one right now. But, they are in the range of watches that I can aspire to as a middle class American. Maybe that's what upsets the watch snobs?
If someone can buy Movado watches like they are bags of potato chips, then Movado watches are probably not a luxury watch for them. As I've written before, we all get to define what a prestigious watch is for us. Movado is definitely a luxury watch for America's middle class and there's nothing wrong with that! If you want a quartz Movado watch, they aren't cheap, but they are a little more affordable than mechanical movement watches.
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| Movado Quartz Men's Signature Watch |
If you've been able to buy any Movado, you should be proud to wear it. It is an accomplishment. It is a luxury.
