In summary: Club de la Montre is a French online watch retailer that has specialized in brand-name watches for over 30 years. This guide explains what “gold” really means (solid gold, gold-plated, or PVD), how to choose a gold watch that suits you, and how to wear it without making a fashion faux pas. Our 2026 selection ranges from the gold Casio Vintage at €59.90 to the Kelton Héritage Champagne at €185.37, all available at clubdelamontre.com.
For a long time, gold watches have been seen as “grandma’s jewelry” or a somewhat ostentatious display of wealth. In 2026, that’s all changed: gold has once again become the watch color of the summer, worn by both men and women, on models ranging from €35 to several hundred euros. But you still need to know what you’re buying—and how to wear it. That’s exactly what this guide is for.
Why the Gold Watch Is Making a Comeback
There are three reasons for this resurgence in popularity. The first is aesthetic: the vintage trend that has been driving the watch industry for several years (36- to 39-mm cases, cream-colored dials, Milanese bracelets) has automatically brought gold back into the spotlight, as it was the premier finish of the 1960s and 1970s. The second is technical: PVD (physical vapor deposition) coatings have made gold-tone finishes durable and affordable, whereas the gold plating of earlier generations would wear off after just a few years. The third is cultural: on social media, the “golden hour” aesthetic—that warm light at the end of a summer day—has made gold-tone a seasonal trend in its own right.
The figures confirm this: as of August 5, 2026, the Club de la Montre catalog features 65 gold-banded watches and 33 watches with gold dials currently available, starting at €35. Ten years ago, this proportion would have been unthinkable outside of jewelry departments.
Solid gold, gold-plated, gold PVD: What “gold” Really Means
This is THE question to ask before buying—and the one that not everyone dares to ask in the store. A “gold watch” can refer to three very different things:
| Finish | What It Is | Sustainability | Budget |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid gold | Case made entirely of 18-karat gold | Unlimited; scratches but can be polished | Several thousand euros |
| Gold-plated | A thin layer of gold deposited by electrolysis (often 5 to 20 microns) | Wears out at the friction points within a few years | Average, especially for vintage items |
| Gold PVD | Vacuum Deposition of Metal Particles on Stainless Steel | Excellent everyday performance, far superior to traditional lamination | Affordable, ranging from €35 to €300 |
Virtually all modern gold-colored watches sold for between €35 and €300—including those in our selection—feature a PVD coating on stainless steel. This is great news: you get the luster of gold, the durability of steel, and a price that remains reasonable. Traditional gold plating is found mainly on secondhand vintage watches, where you should inspect the lugs and clasp—the first places where the brass tends to show through.
Who gets the gold watch?
For everyone, as long as you choose the right shade and size. Three simple guidelines:
Depending on your skin tone
Golden, olive, or tanned skin tones are naturally flattered by bright yellow gold. Very fair or rosy skin tones often pair better with rose gold, which is softer, or with a subtle gold limited to the champagne-colored dial. Summer makes everything easier: on tanned skin, gold works almost without fail, which explains its status as the color of the season.
Depending on your wrist
Gold catches the eye, so it makes the watch look bigger. If you’re torn between two sizes, go with the smaller one: a gold watch measuring 32 to 36 mm flatters a slender wrist without overwhelming it, and even on a man’s wrist, sizes ranging from 36 to 39 mm are now the standard. To find your ideal diameter, our guide to watch sizes based on wrist size details the two-step measurement method.
Depending on your style
All-gold (gold-plated case and steel bracelet) to embrace the retro '70s vibe. Subtle gold (champagne dial on a leather strap) for an elegant first step. Two-tone gold and steel to strike a balance. There’s no wrong answer—just a matter of degree.
Our Selection of Gold Watches for 2026
Six models are available as of this writing, selected to cater to all budgets and styles, from retro digital to classic French vintage.
Nixon Time Teller Light Gold / Turquoise
The California spirit, golden by the lagoon
140,00 €
The Comparison at a Glance
| Model | For whom | Golden Style | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Casio Vintage Iconic | Coed | Full Retro Digital Gold | 59,90 € |
| Casio Heritage Gold | Man | Gold + smoky green dial | 89,90 € |
| Ice-Watch Chouchou Gold | Woman | Modern and Light Gold | 99,00 € |
| Pierre Lannier: Multiples | Woman | Gold + leopard print, faceted glass | 109,00 € |
| Nixon Time Teller | Coed | Gold + turquoise, surf-inspired | 140,00 € |
| Kelton Héritage Champagne | Men and Women | Subtle champagne on leather | 185,37 € |
Want to broaden your search? Browse all our women's watches, men's watches, or the entire Nixon collection.
How to Wear a Gold Watch Without Looking Tacky
Three rules are all you need. One: Gold is the star of the show. Let it take center stage and limit other gold pieces to one or two at most (a thin chain, discreet hoop earrings). Two: Mixing gold and silver—long considered taboo—is now perfectly acceptable, as long as it looks intentional: a gray pearl bracelet or a steel bangle paired with a gold piece works very well. Three: gold looks great with summer colors. White, ecru, turquoise, aqua, terracotta—these are the backgrounds where gold’s sparkle shines best, much more so than against stark black.
When it comes to men’s fashion, gold is best worn as an accent: paired with a light-colored linen shirt or a simple polo shirt, but never as a head-to-toe look. The smoky dial (green, midnight blue) makes this even easier—and that’s the appeal of the Casio Heritage Gold from our selection.
Caring for a Gold Watch
Modern PVD is durable, but a few simple steps can significantly prolong its luster. Rinse the watch with fresh water after exposure to the ocean or a swimming pool, as salt and chlorine are the main enemies of the finish. Dry it with a soft microfiber cloth—never use abrasive products or alcohol. Store it separately from other jewelry to prevent micro-scratches. And check the water resistance before summer: most urban gold-tone watches are rated at 3 ATM, which means they can withstand splashes but not prolonged swimming. Our guide to salt, sand, and sunscreen—how your watch survives the summer— detailed all these seasonal care tips, and our guide to summer 2026 watches rounds out the collection.
FAQ: Your Questions About Gold Watches
Is a gold-colored watch made of gold?
It’s almost never found in affordable price ranges. In the €35 to €300 range, “gold” refers to PVD-coated stainless steel, which features a highly durable gold-colored metal coating. Solid gold can be identified by its hallmark (an eagle’s head in France) and its price, which runs into the thousands of euros.
Does PVD gold plating last?
Yes, much better than traditional gold plating. High-quality PVD coating retains its luster for several years with daily use. Areas subject to friction (clasp, case) may develop a patina over time, but without the yellowish brass color of old, worn-out plating.
Can you go swimming while wearing a gold watch?
Look at the water resistance rating, not the color. A 3 ATM watch can handle splashes, a 5 ATM watch can be worn in the shower, and you need 10 ATM to swim with confidence. In any case, rinse it with fresh water after being in the ocean or a pool.
Will men still wear gold watches in 2026?
Yes, and it’s actually one of this year’s biggest trends, driven by the vintage craze. The key: a compact case (36 to 40 mm) and a understated or smoky dial. A men’s gold watch is best worn as a statement piece with a simple outfit.
How much should you budget for a good gold watch?
A reliable gold-colored Casio starts at €59.90. For between €90 and €140, you’ll find French brands (Pierre Lannier) and international brands (Ice-Watch, Nixon) with sophisticated designs. For around €185, the Kelton Héritage offers vintage French craftsmanship. Above that price point, you’re paying for the movement and the finish—not just the color.
Yellow Gold or Rose Gold: How Do You Choose?
Yellow gold is radiant and vintage, looking gorgeous on olive or tanned skin. Rose gold is softer and more contemporary, flattering on fair skin. If in doubt, try both in natural light: it’s your skin tone that matters, not fashion.
How do you clean a gold watch?
Use a dry microfiber cloth for routine care. For a thorough cleaning, use lukewarm water with a drop of mild soap, a soft brush for the bracelet, and then dry it thoroughly. Never use solvents, alcohol, or ammonia-based products on gold-plated items.
Can you pair a gold watch with silver jewelry?
Yes, the “mix of metals” is fully accepted in 2026. The rule: the mix should look intentional, not forced. A gold piece paired with a silver bracelet and a silver ring works; a haphazard pile-up, not so much.
Selection and prices verified on August 5, 2026, on clubdelamontre.com. Over 30 years of passion for watches; a 2-year warranty on all our watches.