Women's Two-Tone Watch: Steel and Gold

The women's two-tone watch, two metals in one

A women's two-tone watch combines two metal finishes on the bracelet or the case: most often silver-tone steel with gold-tone accents, or steel with rose gold. The links alternate, or the case mixes both colours. It is the watch for those who wear both gold and silver and do not want to choose. The selection brings together Michael Kors, Vivienne Westwood, Guess, Lacoste, Tommy Hilfiger, Burberry, Emporio Armani, Just Cavalli, Daniel Wellington and Fossil, all brand new and covered by a 2-year warranty.

What sets a two-tone women's watch apart, measured across our catalogue

We compared these watches with our full range of women's watches. Unsurprisingly, it is first and foremost the bracelet that carries both colours: it is two-tone on more than eight watches in ten. The case is also two-tone on nearly one watch in two, whereas a two-tone case remains rare elsewhere in the catalogue. Leather almost disappears: it is found on one two-tone watch in fifty, compared with one in six elsewhere. A two-tone watch is therefore, in the vast majority of cases, a watch on a metal bracelet.

The dial follows a logic of balance. The silver dial is clearly more common here, on more than one watch in three compared with one in five elsewhere: it lets the bracelet provide the contrast. Finally, these watches are less often limited to 3 ATM: just over one in four, compared with four in ten for our women's watches in general. The size, meanwhile, remains classic, with a median diameter of 35 mm and a 16 mm bracelet.

Steel and gold or steel and rose gold: how to choose

The steel and gold pairing is the most striking: the contrast between the white of the steel and the yellow of the gold is visible from afar, and it gives a classic look. The steel and rose gold pairing is softer, almost powdery, and pairs well with fair skin tones as well as pastel outfits. Also consider the distribution: a bracelet with a gold-tone central link draws the eye, while a case alone in two tones is more discreet. If you are still undecided, compare with our selections gold women's watch and rose gold women's watch.

The watch that matches all your jewellery

The advantage of a two-tone watch is its practicality: it bridges jewellery in two colours. A gold ring and a silver bangle do not sit well with an all-gold or all-silver watch; with a two-tone watch, they find common ground. It is also a good choice for a first watch, or as a gift when you do not know the recipient's tastes. As for water, remember this rule: most are 5 ATM water-resistant, suitable for occasional showers but not for swimming, and a small minority reach 10 ATM, the level that allows swimming. The crown should always be kept pushed in.

Frequently asked questions about the women's two-tone watch

With all of it: that is its appeal. It goes with a gold ring as well as a silver bangle. For a harmonious look, repeat each of the watch's two colours at least once in your jewellery.

Most are 5 ATM water-resistant: suitable for occasional showers, not for swimming. Roughly one in four is limited to 3 ATM, which covers rain and handwashing. A small minority reach 10 ATM, which allows swimming. Avoid saunas in all cases.

The silver watch is more understated and works with white jewellery. The two-tone watch adds a touch of gold or rose gold and suits more outfits. To compare, see our silver women's watch selection.

The median diameter is 35 mm, with a 9 mm thickness, and half of the models measure between 28 and 38 mm. On a slim wrist, stay under 36 mm; for a more pronounced effect, aim for 38 mm.

Brush the links with a soft, dry toothbrush, then wipe them with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive products and silver polishes, which can tarnish the gold-tone parts. Put your watch on after perfume and creams.