The Best Square Men's Watches for Non-Square Men

This special ‘closed’ edition of Rado’s ceramic True Square timepiece comes from a collab between the luxury Swiss label and Formafantasma, a design studio based between The Netherlands and Italy, founded by Andrea Trimarchi and Simone Farresin). Needless to say, it’s for the quirky watch collectors, but it’s also for the minimalists – sans markers, the model becomes a clean, simple timepiece that pairs well with your quiet luxury-wear.

A bit The Matrix, a bit Blade Runner, Hamilton’s American Classic PSR Green is the space-age watch you didn’t know you needed. The model first emerged in the seventies and was re-introduced in 2020 for today's forward-thinking folk looking for a digital watch that genuinely arouses awe.

The American-born Swiss watch manufacturer also produces one that displays the time in a laser red hue, rather than the green you see here, a take that's a little more spy thriller than dystopian science fiction.

Geneva-based Raymond Weil is behind this delightful 40mm wristwatch characterised by its cushion-shaped case, visible balance wheel and timeless khaki green paint job. It’s called the Freelancer, which makes sense since it’s versatile, resilient and works really hard to make your life a little easier.

Lots to take in here, most of it circular. But look beyond the many, many concentric rings – all functional mind you, with a tachymeter, pulsometer and asthmometer – and there's the classic Bell & Ross square case behind it. Sturdy, vibrant and understated at the same time.

This particular design came about when British army officers started grousing about how easy it was to damage their wristwatches while playing polo. So, Jacques-David LeCoultre worked out an ingenious system to allow the polo players to flip their watch faces around to protect them through each chukka. Smart stuff.

When it comes to square watches, Cartier is the first name that comes to mind. The Santos-Dumont – named after the Brazilian aviator who favoured the distinctive shape – is still one of the most famous square models and it’s easy to see why. This example combines a yellow gold case with a sleek black alligator strap for a classic look, while the blue sapphire crown is a tasteful extra.

D1 Milano was only established a decade ago, but the label is known for its classic designs and more-than-reasonable price point. This one is no different, with a champagne colour used across the case, dial and strap.

Duckworth Prestex’s Bolton model has fun with the idea of a traditional square watch. The stylised numerals and cushion-style steel case both make a statement, while the brown Horween leather strap and smaller size mean that it can complement almost anything.

LA brand La Californienne began life creating hand-painted straps inspired by the colours of the Californian sky. Those origins are clear on the label’s Daybreak watch, which features a colourful strap alongside a gold-plated case, teal dial and pink hands.