Left-Handed Watches: Appealing Destros for Lefties

Wristwatches have long been regarded as essential accessories, combining functionality with style. However, a unique trend has emerged, captivating watch enthusiasts and collectors alike – left-handed watches. These timepieces break away from tradition, offering a distinct and unconventional experience for those who dare to be different.

Lefty watches also offer a practical function, especially for left-handed people who mostly prefer wearing a timepiece on the right hand. Despite the varieties of watches, left-handed watches are only a small number in the group.

A survey mentioned that they only took 10% of the whole population in the world. Basically, most watch brands produce watches for 90% of the population. In this article, we will take a closer look at the configuration of left-handed watches and the essence of their innovation. Let’s dig in!

What Is a Left-Handed Watch?

Traditionally, watches are designed for right-handed individuals with the crown and buttons located on the right side of the case. On the other hand, left-handed watches (also known as destro watches) reverse that arrangement, placing the crown and often other controls on the left side. 

The standard configuration for wristwatches has the crown on the right side, assuming that the wearer, who is typically right-handed, will use their right hand to adjust the time or other settings. However, left-handed people may find this arrangement less ergonomic, as they would need to cross over the watch case with their non-dominant hand to manipulate the crown.

Left-handed watches are often distinguished by this reversed crown placement, providing left-handed wearers with a more intuitive and accessible design. Some left-handed watches also feature a mirrored dial layout, ensuring that the watch face remains upright when worn on the right wrist.

The origin of left-handed watches can be traced back to historical needs, particularly during World War II when soldiers found it more practical to wear their watches on the right wrist for ease of access while handling weapons with their right hand. 

Over time, this design has evolved, becoming not only a functional solution but also a unique and stylish choice for those who appreciate unconventional timepieces.

Read also: Which Hand Do You Actually Wear a Watch? (Right or Left?)

4 Appealing Left-Handed Watches for Your Next Collection

Explore our curated selection of exceptional timepieces that break away from tradition with left-handed watches. Let’s check it out!

Dievas Vortex 500

The Dievas Vortex 500 boasts a rugged and bold design with markers and hands. The left-handed crown placement adds a touch of unconventional charm, catering to those with a penchant for distinctive wristwear. 

This watch is a solid example of a left-hand watch with a double O-ring 6mm screw-down crown occupying the lower left-hand corner for easy time adjustments. Powered by a reliable Swiss automatic movement, the Vortex 500 ensures accurate timekeeping while its 500-meter water resistance makes it a versatile companion for both urban exploration and underwater adventures. 

Price: $780.00 USD

Gruppo Ardito Lince Blue

If you’re looking for an affordable left-handed watch, the Gruppo Ardito Lince Blue is a perfect choice with its bold and striking blue dial that captures attention. The left-handed design not only adds a distinctive flair but also caters to comfort and ease of use for those favoring their left hand.

The crown is placed at the 8 o'clock position for the "destro" look. Not to mention that this screw-down crown is made of grade 5 titanium for better durability. Overall, this left-handed watch would be a noteworthy addition to any watch enthusiast's collection.

Price: $1,230.00 USD

U-Boat Darkmoon 44mm IPB Ref. 8464/B

The next left-handed watch that should be under your radar is the U-Boat Darkmoon 44mm IPB. With its imposing 44mm case coated in IPB (Ion Plating Black), the watch exudes an air of rugged sophistication.

The dark and mysterious aesthetic is complemented by intricate detailing, from the oversized crown on the left side to the intricate dial layout. The crown placement at the 9 o’clock position is a satisfaction for lefties that creates comfort for them while wearing a watch. 

Price: $1,180.00 USD

Hamilton Khaki X-Wind Day Date Automatic Black - Brown Leather Ref. H77755533

The Hamilton Khaki X-Wind Day Date Automatic Black caters to both right-handed and left-handed people, judging from the crown placement. The watch features three crowns placed on the right and left side of the watch (one on the left side and two on the right side).

All three crowns that are flanged with crown guards have knurling on them, done with the right size for one to wind the watch up and adjustments to the inner rehaut system with ease. Although the watch isn't designed specifically for lefties, it still could be a good choice as a left-handed watch.

Price: $1,040.00 USD

Final Thought

Left-handed watches have carved a niche in the world of horology, offering a unique blend of functionality, comfort, and style. Whether you're a left-handed individual seeking a timepiece that caters to your needs or a watch enthusiast looking to break away from the ordinary, left-handed watches provide a distinctive and exciting option.

It’s also worth noting that deciding which wrist to wear a watch is a matter of personal, meaning that a right-handed person can also wear a timepiece with a left-side crown. For some people, wearing a left-handed watch on the left wrist gives convenience as it won’t hit the wrist. 

In summary, whichever wrist you are wearing your watch, you can choose one that you feel the most comfortable with. As the watch industry continues to innovate, these unconventional timepieces serve as a reminder that true luxury lies in embracing diversity and catering to the needs of every wrist.

Read also: What Does Your Watch Say About You? A Reflection of Style