These Designer Watches Went From Want to Need After I Tried Them IRL

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@kristenmarienichols

Cartier is home to many iconic watches, but the Panthère de Cartier is carving itself out as a key buy among the fashion set and celebs, including Dua Lipa, who wears hers on repeat. Originally launched in 1983, this style is a nod to the decade but couldn't look more modern to this day. The Mini styles, in particular, are noteworthy in light of the small-watch trend that is taking over right now—a style that is a favorite of celebrities like Kylie Jenner.

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@kristenmarienichols

One of the most iconic watch brands in existence, Rolex is synonymous with luxury timepieces. The timeless design of the Datejust watches makes them a popular choice among fashion people looking for a classic, versatile piece. From smaller Lady Datejust styles to the larger Presidential Datejust watches, there is a silhouette for every wrist size.

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@kristenmarienichols

The Cartier Baignoire watch offers up an elegant take on timepieces. While the watch dates back to 1906, the rereleased versions have been the talk of the watch world, including the bangle style that is nearly impossible to track down. Perhaps no style embodies cult watches now more than the Cartier Baignoire.

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@kristenmarienichols

Audemars Piguet is a true watch insider's watch brand. With limited-edition releases and fine craftsmanship, the brand produces the most highly coveted watches in the world. Its most popular design, the Royal Oak, was introduced in 1972 and can be spotted on celebs such as Mary-Kate Olsen and Harry Styles.

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@kristenmarienichols

Though I tried on a wide range of brands, I kept coming back to Cartier's beautiful timepieces, and the third style to land on my short list was the Tank Américaine. First released in 1989, the elegant tank-style watch has seen a resurgence recently among women in the watch world. The leather-band versions are particularly popular, but those with the metal bracelets are equally stunning.