My wife is dropping rather large hints she would like a watch for her forthcoming birthday. I know naff all about watches and don't wear one myself. She has only had Swatch before. Are there any brands to avoid etc?

Just returned a Michael Kors white and gold effort that I got Mrs L for her birthday, as the strap had a rubbery coating on it that discoloured and could not be cleaned. So avoid that one.

Otherwise, nice watches. That one was rather impractical tho…

casio oceanus ladies.
Got my wife one from Chapelle last year. It is solar powered has radio time signal and looks as expensive as any rolex (gets lots of comments). Was only £100.

Citizen Eco-Drive (male or female)…never need a battery again…keep on working and keep good time.

Got one of these for my wife and very nice it is.
http://www.sienna-jewellery.com/index.php?mod=product&id_prd=465&id_ctg=25

Rado. Pretty…

Don't ffs, show her those. They are REALLY expensive…

Have a look at the Fossil website.
Some really lovely watches on there, and not too pricey.

Do you have a budget?

I was about to say Fossil watches are nice. however I want one of these
http://www.breo.com/item/Brand_RoamNeonPink_195_0_2256_1.html
easy for work 😉 (oh and I'm cheap!).

Seriously though I got a nice Seiko watch for my 30th from my brother.