Finding school-approved watches is important for many parents and teens right now. As more and more schools around the United States consider or implement phone and smartwatch bans, many teens are opting for a more analog way to get through the day: a good old-fashioned wristwatch! This is why finding the best watches for students to keep, in place of their phones, is very important. If your school just implemented a ban, you’re in luck, because the best watches for teens are stylish, functional, and most importantly, keep you focused on your schoolwork and not scrolling the day away.
The phone bans require students to check in their phones and Apple or Google Pixel watches when the school day begins so they’re less distracted by technology, texting, and TikTok. But look on the bright side of said ban: you get your phone back at the end of the day, can connect on a deeper level with friends and teachers without the temptation of a screen, and you get to shop for a fun new accessory too! Whether a Timex watch or G-Shock, there’s so many timepieces to choose from. When shopping for a good watch, it’s important to think about what you care for most: is it stainless steel builds, it’s function? Are you going for a minimalist, everyday watch or leaning into luxury watches, like a Rolex, Chronograph, Seiko 5, or Tissot? Do you need a dress watch or a field watch? There are so many options to choose from.
Obviously a watch’s main job is to tell time, so you can get from class to class before the bell rings, but it’s also a styling piece that can jazz up a simple outfit or set the tone for your look for the day. From college students to high school and middle schoolers, a good watch can not only serve as a style addition, but a necessary tool. If you look to stars like Hailey Bieber for outfit inspo, maybe a classic watch style suits your vibe best. If you can’t resist a bright color, channel the ‘80s with a forever iconic Casio or Swatch. There are watches for high-impact lifestyles, sleek gold styles that look like family heirlooms, even Sanrio watches featuring your favorite characters. There really is a watch style for everyone, and you may find that you don’t even miss your phone at all!
Ahead, we’ve gathered some of the best school-approved watches for teens, from old school designs that will never go out of style to digital designs.
