A type of watch that is almost solely associated with mechanical movements is the skeleton watch, often known as a skeletonized watch. In principle, skeletonizing a watch is an easy operation. A skeleton watch’s creator shows the “bones” beneath the surface by prying up the dial and caseback and removing some sizable portions of the movement. Practically speaking, skeletonizing a watch can be done little or extremely, and the outcome in both cases is frequently divisive. Skeleton watches are almost always a guaranteed conversation starter among fans of mechanical wristwatches, regardless of your feelings toward the style. In order to continue those discussions, we’ve put up this list of some of our best skeleton watches on the market today.
Let’s explain some of the lingo you may encounter before delving into the list. First off, “open heart” and “openworked” are two other phrases that are frequently used interchangeably with the topic of skeleton watches. “Open heart” usually refers to a certain kind of dial aperture that often shows very little else other than the balance wheel beating away. Since Audemars Piguet popularized the word “openworked” (see below for additional information), it is sometimes used as a replacement to “skeletonized”. In essence, the terms “skeletonized” and “openworked” can be used interchangeably to describe the same aesthetic. Thus, you will find skeletonized and openworked watches on this list, but not open-heart watches—that might be a topic for another discussion.
1.Bulova Sutton Automatic skeleton watch
Bulova should be on your radar, but it might not be unless you’re a watch obsessive. The upscale watchmaker has been producing insanely stylish timepieces since 1875, and their lineup of exceptional wristwear includes my choice for the greatest men’s skeleton watch. The Sutton is my favorite because of its glowing hands and markers, automated movement, large price range, and skeletonized front and back. It can also get moist.
Its 43mm case and stainless steel band make it an adaptable choice for both more formal events and daily outings. It’s a great all-around player that ought to be affordable for most men.
The watch’s internal components and hands have a similar hue, which can take some getting used to. Team long-sighted will need their glasses to hand.
2.Fossil Townsman Automatic Watch
I had to perform a double take when I initially saw this watch. How can such a sophisticated design be had for so little money? surpasses me. Furthermore, I continue to believe that there was a pricing issue. Therefore, I’d advise grabbing it pretty soon because the finest skeleton watch doesn’t have to break the bank.
With its bold 44mm case, skeleton face, and brown leather band, this watch is a true manly option that goes well with both formal and informal attire.
This is an excellent choice that will look great on your wrist for many years to come if you’re looking for an affordable watch that seems much more expensive than it actually costs. It’s the greatest skeleton watch for guys on a budget, in my view.Since the dark dial and hands don’t glow in the dark, they can be a little difficult to see in low light.
3.Boluva Maquina Automatic Watch
Happy splashers, this water-resistant watch can go down to 100 meters with you without making you feel short of breath. I’m impressed by more than just its fish-like qualities, though; it’s also a great choice on dry ground. In addition to looking good with both formal and casual outfits, the vintage-inspired design’s glowing hands and markers make nighttime viewing effortless.
This skeleton watch is a great option for every day wear because it can accompany you from the pool to the sidewalk. It’s something you should bring along for your summertime travels, and it will definitely spark conversation in the workplace (for the right reasons, of course).
Its 46mm case is edging towards the large side, so it might look/feel too big on thin wrists (that’ll be me).
4.Ulysse Nardinblast Skeleton
Comprising 173 components and providing a 96-hour power reserve when fully wound, this exceptional manual watch is much more than simply an attractive face. The skeleton design showcases the three-dimensional heart beating inside, and the ultra-light titanium casing is wonderfully complemented by the rubber straps. Each piece is individually numbered on the side, which adds to its uniqueness.
This is for the big guns who want to stand out wherever they go. Caution: If you can’t afford to put down a significant amount of money, you should give it up. The best skeleton watch in this instance does cost money.
5.Hamilton Ventura xxl Skeleton
From a design standpoint, the enduring Hamilton Ventura has changed and endured since construction began in 1957. Even with the enlargement of our wrists, it remains significant. Thirteen years ago, Hamilton released the Ventura XXL to appeal to the larger male population. This year’s Ventura XXL Skeleton Automatic is a 46mm showpiece that also serves as a mechanical demonstration of a recently developed skeletonized movement.
The Hamilton Ventura is still “out there” 65 years after it made its debut. I can only image how people would have reacted in the past to a triangle design that was hailed as the first electric wristwatch ever. The new Ventura XXL Skeleton Automatic shares a similar motif to the Ventura Elvis80 Skeleton that we reviewed last year, except it is more triangular in shape. With a size of 46 × 45.5 mm, the XXL is larger and has a polished stainless steel case. The softened edges of the geometric terraced case give it a less confrontational, or more friendly, vibe. Its dimensions are 23.5 mm in lug width, 11.25 mm in thickness, and 50 meters in water resistance.
Within this exquisitely designed casing, beneath a sapphire crystal coated with double-AR, is the H-10-S skeletonized automatic movement (ETA C07.901 base). The black triangle dial, which Hamilton skillfully designed with broad, fashionable holes to showcase this circular caliber, is a work of art. Slender nickeled hands allow maximum visibility of the engine underneath. Super-LumiNova has also been applied to the hour and minute hands to improve nighttime legibility. Having said that, I’m not sure you really want this watch to be able to read time precisely.
Not only is the Hamilton Ventura a work of amazing design. As everyone knows, creating anything unusual is an expensive process. Finding strategies for bringing an unconventional creation to life and carrying it out requires creative thinking as well. The Ventura is “first and foremost an engineering feat,” as Hamilton states with pride.
Although I think the Ventura XXL Skeleton Automatic is so awesome in terms of style, not everyone will share my opinion. Hamilton, however, has undoubtedly done a fantastic job of making the Ventura both historically and culturally fascinating to us. With the highly anticipated Elvis film currently in theaters, it might be more appropriate to embrace your inner rock star and wear the Ventura instead of a flashy Vegas costume.
With its futuristic shape and unique precision cut-outs, this is the kind of watch you’d expect to find on the wrist of space fanatics. Not just easy on the eye, it’s powered by automatic movement and protected with anti-reflective sapphire glass.
Buying Considerations for the Best Skeleton Watches
Any watch’s movement is its central component. The movement and suitability of the men’s skeleton watch should be taken into account when choosing one.
When worn consistently, automatic watches run on wrist movement and provide the utmost ease and constant functionality. Manual designs offer the wearer the physical interaction of manually winding the watch and have a stronger link to traditional watchmaking.
A skeleton watch’s design and degree of transparency are primarily what make it appealing. Check that the exposed elements on the dial and case are what you like. The ideal skeleton watch should be intriguing without compromising readability, thus you should try to find a balance between transparency and legibility.
The size of your watch can significantly impact its wearability and overall aesthetic. You should consider the case diameter, thickness, and lug-to-lug distance to ensure the watch complements your wrist size and personal style preferences. Some guys prefer larger, more prominent cases for a bold statement; others may opt for something a little more understated and versatile. The best skeleton watch needs to be the right size for you.