The Evolution of Men’s Movado Watches Price Over the Years

For decades, Movado has been known as a company with modern design and Swiss craftsmanship. The brand has come a long way, however, since it was first established in 1881 — not just in design and technology, but also in pricing. The evolution of the men’s Movado watches price from yesteryears to recent versions is bound to teach collectors and enthusiasts a lot more than just about the brand. In this guest post, we talk about how the prices of Movado have changed and what that means for you as a buyer.

Early Beginnings: Affordable Swiss Craftsmanship and Men’s Movado Watches Prices

In the early 1900s, Movado earned praise as a luxury watch brand that remained within reach for many, especially when compared to other high-end Swiss makers. Most men’s Movado watches of that era carried modest price tags, reflecting both the lingering effects of the Depression and the brand’s commitment to accessible quality. These timepieces stood out for their understated elegance, often featuring precise mechanical movements paired with durable stainless-steel cases. The combination of refined design and reliable engineering made Movado a trusted choice, helping the brand establish a lasting reputation among watch enthusiasts worldwide.

In the early years, a Movado watch typically sold for $10 to $50. While that price seems modest today, it placed Movado firmly in the accessible luxury category when adjusted for inflation. This balance between quality and affordability allowed the brand to reach a wide range of customers without losing its prestige. Movado’s refined craftsmanship, Swiss precision, and elegant design made it an attractive choice for style-conscious buyers who valued both function and fashion. By keeping prices within reach, Movado built a loyal customer base and expanded its influence, securing a strong and lasting position in the global watch industry.

The Mid-Century Modern Era: Rise of the Museum Watch

The Museum Watch was created in 1947 by artist Nathan George Horwitt. Its simple black dial with one gold dot at noon made it an immediate design icon and was subsequently included in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Such an innovative design helped lift the Movado brand and began to change its perception to high-end modernism.

The men’s Movado watches price climbed gradually from the 1950s to the 1970s as the brand embraced more artistic and design-forward designs. Movado Museum Watch for men would be a standard item between $100 and $300 during this time. Those prices not just reflected a more successful brand, but also that higher levels of materials were starting to be used in the form of gold, automatic movements and sapphire crystals.

The Quartz Revolution and 1980s Pricing Trends

The 1970s and then the 80s brought about quartz movements, marking a revolution in the watch industry. Movado adopted the technology with an eye toward that same elegance. By using quartz movements, Movado was able to provide established timekeeping more widely despite the mechanical norm.

During this time, men’s Movado watches were relatively flat in price despite economic shifts, usually between $200 and $500 based on material and function. Of course, special editions and whatnot cost more than the solid golds, but Movado stayed strong in both the department store game and that of much more traditional luxury retailers.

The 1990s to Early 2000s: Branding and Expansion

Through the 1990s and into the early 2000s, Movado experienced significant growth, not only expanding its global reach but also evolving its pricing strategy to appeal to a wider audience. The brand began appearing more prominently in popular culture, shifting focus toward lifestyle, branding, and fashion appeal. High-profile advertising campaigns on bustling high streets, paired with strategic celebrity endorsements, elevated Movado’s image. These efforts transformed the brand into more than just a watchmaker—it became a style statement. By this era, a Movado watch was recognized as a must-have fashion accessory for men, blending timeless design with modern cultural relevance.

At this time, the price of men’s Movado watches was running between $500 to 1000 on average. As models became more intricate — for example, incorporating a chronograph or moon-phase complication — and luxurious materials were employed in construction, higher price points became more reasonable.

Modern Era: From Fashion Statement to Affordable Luxury

Today, Movado still walks the fine line between high fashion and affordable luxury. The price of Movado watches for men usually sits within a $400 – $2,500 range based on the model, movement (quartz or automatic), and design function. The Bold collection carries a more affordable modern appeal, and the Museum Classic line addresses purists and collectors.

Movado has been quite the opposite by offering innovative technology as well, under models like the Movado Connect, further widening their price range to attract a younger and tech-friendly crowd.

Final Thoughts

The price fluctuations of men’s Movado watches over the years are an interesting way to understand the development of watchmaking, branding, and customer demands over time. Movado has managed to create a legacy for balancing affordability without compromising on timeless luxury — and its price history perfectly tells the tale of how it became an iconic design.