Are you searching for a stylish timepiece without spending thousands?
MVMT watches have created significant buzz in the watch industry with their minimalist designs and affordable pricing.
This review examines everything you need to know before purchasing a MVMT watch.
Key Takeaways
- Founded in 2013 by Jake Kassan and Kramer LaPlante who started the company through successful Indiegogo crowdfunding campaigns
- Acquired by Movado Group in 2018 for approximately $100 million, bringing the brand into a larger luxury watch family
- Price range typically between $100-$250, positioning MVMT as an affordable entry point into the fashion watch market
- Features Japanese Miyota Quartz Movement in most models, providing reliable timekeeping at a budget-friendly price
- Minimalist design philosophy focuses on clean aesthetics and modern styling that appeals particularly to younger consumers
- Mixed quality reviews with some customers praising the style-to-price ratio while watch enthusiasts often criticize build quality
- Two-year warranty comes standard with all purchases, providing some peace of mind for buyers
- Wide range of collections including Classic, Chrono, Legacy, and specialized series for both men and women
- Expanded product line now includes sunglasses and other accessories beyond their original watch offerings
- Direct-to-consumer model eliminates traditional retail markups, though critics argue the watches remain overpriced for their quality
- Manufacturing primarily occurs in China while marketing emphasizes their “Designed in Los Angeles” credentials
- Strong social media presence with marketing heavily focused on Instagram and influencer partnerships
The MVMT Brand Story
MVMT watches started with a simple idea. Two college dropouts wanted to create stylish watches at affordable prices. Jake Kassan and Kramer LaPlante founded MVMT in 2013 with this vision in mind. The founders noticed a gap in the market between expensive luxury watches and low-quality budget options.
The brand name “MVMT” (pronounced “movement”) reflects their goal to disrupt the traditional watch industry. They launched their business through crowdfunding on Indiegogo. Their campaign raised over $290,000, showing strong public interest in their concept.
MVMT adopted a direct-to-consumer business model. This approach eliminated retail markups and middlemen. By selling exclusively online, they kept prices low while maintaining profit margins. This strategy proved successful as the company grew rapidly.
Social media marketing played a crucial role in their growth. MVMT built a strong presence on Instagram and partnered with various influencers. Their visual marketing emphasized stylish lifestyle imagery that appealed to millennials. This approach helped them build a community of loyal customers.
The company expanded beyond watches in 2016 when they began selling sunglasses. This diversification showed their ambition to become a lifestyle brand. Their success attracted the attention of larger companies in the fashion industry.
In 2018, watchmaker Movado Group acquired MVMT for approximately $100 million. This acquisition validated the founders’ business approach and secured the brand’s future. Today, MVMT continues to operate under the Movado umbrella while maintaining its original brand identity.
MVMT Watch Collections and Models
MVMT offers several distinct watch collections for both men and women. Each collection features signature design elements while maintaining the brand’s minimalist aesthetic. The men’s lineup includes popular series like Classic, Chrono, and Legacy.
The Classic collection represents MVMT’s core design philosophy. These watches feature clean dials with minimal markings and slim cases. Most models measure between 40-45mm in diameter, making them substantial but not oversized. Popular colors include black, white, and blue dials paired with leather straps or metal bracelets.
The Chrono collection adds chronograph functionality to the minimalist design. These models typically feature three subdials for timing functions. The Chrono Gunmetal Sandstone model remains one of their bestsellers. Its gunmetal case paired with a sandstone leather strap creates a striking contrast that many customers find appealing.
For those seeking a more refined look, the Legacy series offers slimmer profiles and dressier designs. These watches work well for formal occasions while maintaining the brand’s modern aesthetic. The Legacy Slim models measure just 9mm in thickness, making them comfortable for all-day wear.
Women’s collections include the Nova, Bloom, and Avenue series. The Nova collection features smaller case sizes around 38mm with elegant details. Bloom watches incorporate more feminine design elements with mother-of-pearl dials and crystal accents. The Avenue series stands out with rectangular cases that provide a unique look compared to the brand’s predominantly round designs.
MVMT also releases limited-edition collaborations with influencers and artists. These special editions often incorporate unique colors and materials not found in the standard collections. Recent collaborations have included partnerships with digital creators and fashion designers, bringing fresh perspectives to the brand’s aesthetic.
The brand regularly updates its collections with new colorways and materials. Seasonal releases keep the lineup fresh and provide customers with more options. Most models allow for interchangeable straps, extending their versatility and lifespan.
Design Philosophy and Aesthetics
MVMT watches embrace minimalism in their design approach. Clean dials, simple markers, and uncluttered faces define their aesthetic. This design philosophy aligns with contemporary fashion trends that favor simplicity and understatement.
The brand focuses on modern styling that appeals to younger consumers. Most models feature matte finishes rather than the high polish found in traditional watches. This subtle finish creates a contemporary look that works with casual and business attire. The cases typically have sleek profiles without unnecessary details or embellishments.
Color plays an important role in MVMT’s design strategy. While they offer traditional options like black, silver, and gold, they also incorporate modern color palettes. Gunmetal grey, rose gold, and navy blue appear frequently in their collections. These contemporary colors help differentiate their products from both luxury brands and budget timepieces.
Dial designs follow a less is more approach. Hour markers often appear as simple lines or dots rather than numerals. Some models eliminate hour markers entirely, featuring only the brand logo and hands. This extreme minimalism creates a distinctive look that many customers find appealing.
Watch hands typically feature slim profiles that complement the overall design. Most models use monochromatic color schemes with occasional accent colors for contrast. The second hand often appears in a contrasting color like blue or red to add visual interest without disrupting the clean aesthetic.
MVMT strives for versatility in their designs. They aim to create watches that work equally well with jeans and t-shirts or business attire. This versatility makes their products practical for everyday wear rather than occasion-specific accessories.
The brand’s typography remains consistent across collections, using a clean sans-serif font for logos and any text elements. This consistent visual language helps strengthen brand recognition and reinforces their modern design philosophy. Logo placement is subtle, typically appearing only once on the dial face.
Materials and Build Quality
MVMT watches use standard materials common in the fashion watch category. Most models feature cases made from 316L stainless steel. This material provides reasonable durability and resistance to corrosion. Case finishes include brushed, polished, or PVD-coated options depending on the specific model.
The crystal covering the watch face uses mineral glass rather than sapphire. Mineral glass offers decent scratch resistance at a lower cost than sapphire crystal. However, it remains more vulnerable to scratches than the sapphire used in higher-end timepieces. Some users report visible scratches after months of regular wear.
For watch movements, MVMT primarily uses Japanese Miyota quartz movements. These battery-powered mechanisms come from a respected manufacturer and provide reliable timekeeping. The quartz technology requires minimal maintenance beyond battery replacements every few years. While functional, these movements represent entry-level options in the watch industry.
Watch straps come in several materials including genuine leather, stainless steel, and silicone. The leather straps use the lowest grade of genuine leather, which explains why some customers report stiffness and slow break-in periods. Metal bracelets feature standard push-pin construction rather than more secure screw links found in higher-end watches.
Water resistance ratings typically range from 3 ATM to 5 ATM (30-50 meters). This provides splash protection but makes most models unsuitable for swimming or submersion. The water resistance meets basic everyday needs but falls short of true sports watch capabilities.
Assembly quality shows inconsistency across products. Some customers report issues with misaligned hands or loose components. The quality control appears less rigorous than established watch brands, resulting in occasional defects reaching customers. The two-year warranty covers manufacturing defects, but the return process can prove frustrating for some buyers.
Weight and feel represent another area where MVMT watches reveal their price point. The cases and bracelets often feel lighter than premium watches, suggesting thinner material construction. This lighter weight improves comfort but may reduce perceived quality for those accustomed to heavyweight timepieces.
Price Point and Value Proposition
MVMT watches occupy a specific price segment in the watch market. Most models sell for between $100 and $250, positioning them above basic department store watches but well below traditional luxury timepieces. This pricing strategy makes them accessible to young professionals and fashion-conscious consumers.
The brand’s value proposition centers on style rather than technical specifications. MVMT offers modern designs at accessible prices, emphasizing aesthetics over watchmaking heritage or technical excellence. For customers primarily concerned with appearance, this approach delivers reasonable value.
When compared to similar fashion watch brands, MVMT prices fall in line with competitors like Daniel Wellington and Fossil. However, watch enthusiasts often point out that established brands like Seiko, Citizen, and Timex offer better technical specifications at similar price points. These traditional watchmakers provide superior movements, materials, and build quality without significantly higher costs.
MVMT’s direct-to-consumer model allegedly eliminates retail markups. The company claims this approach saves customers money, but critics argue the watches remain overpriced relative to their production costs. Some watch experts suggest the actual manufacturing cost represents a small fraction of the retail price, with marketing and branding accounting for much of the markup.
The brand offers occasional sales and discounts, particularly around holidays and special events. New customers can often save 10% by signing up for the company newsletter. These promotions improve the value equation somewhat but don’t fundamentally change the quality-to-price ratio.
For consumers seeking long-term investment, MVMT watches offer limited value. Unlike traditional mechanical watches, quartz timepieces typically depreciate quickly and don’t hold value over time. The fashion-forward designs may also appear dated as trends change, further reducing long-term value.
The two-year warranty adds some value to the purchase. This coverage exceeds the industry standard one-year warranty offered by many competitors. However, the warranty specifically excludes normal wear and tear, battery replacement, and water damage from improper use.
Customer Experience and Service
MVMT focuses heavily on creating a seamless online shopping experience. Their website features high-quality product photography and detailed specifications. The checkout process remains straightforward with multiple payment options available. This user-friendly approach aligns with their target demographic’s expectations.
The brand offers free shipping worldwide on orders over a certain threshold, typically around $50. This policy makes their products accessible to international customers without additional fees. Standard shipping usually takes 5-7 business days within the United States, with expedited options available for an additional cost.
Return policies allow for returns within 60 days of purchase for unworn items. This generous window exceeds many competitors’ policies. However, customers must pay return shipping costs unless the product arrives damaged or defective. Some buyers report frustration with this requirement, especially when returning items due to quality concerns.
Warranty service requires customers to submit claims through the company website. The process involves providing proof of purchase and photographs of the defect. Once approved, customers receive a prepaid shipping label to send the watch for repair or replacement. Complete resolution typically takes 3-4 weeks, which some customers find excessively long.
Customer service accessibility varies by report. The company offers support through email and live chat during business hours. Response times range from same-day to several days depending on inquiry volume. Some customers report challenges reaching representatives during peak seasons or sales events.
The unboxing experience receives positive mentions in many reviews. MVMT watches arrive in sleek, minimalist packaging that reinforces the brand aesthetic. The presentation creates a premium feel despite the mid-range pricing. This attention to packaging details enhances customer satisfaction with the initial purchase.
Social media engagement represents a strength for the brand. MVMT maintains active accounts on major platforms and responds to customer inquiries and comments. They regularly feature customer photos, creating a sense of community among owners. This engagement helps build brand loyalty beyond the initial purchase.
Pros and Cons of MVMT Watches
Pros
Attractive designs stand as MVMT’s greatest strength. The clean, minimalist aesthetic appeals to many consumers seeking modern accessories. Their watches look good in person and in photos, explaining their popularity on social media platforms.
Affordability makes these watches accessible to budget-conscious shoppers. The price point allows consumers to own multiple styles without major investment. This accessibility has helped the brand build a broad customer base among young adults.
Comfortable wear characterizes most MVMT models. The lightweight construction and reasonable case sizes (typically 40-45mm) make them suitable for daily use. Many customers report wearing their watches comfortably throughout the workday.
Style versatility provides practical advantages for owners. Most designs work equally well with casual or business attire. This versatility eliminates the need for multiple watches for different occasions, adding value for practical-minded consumers.
Free worldwide shipping enhances the overall value proposition. This policy makes the watches accessible to international customers without inflating the final price. For many overseas buyers, this benefit offsets some concerns about the price-to-quality ratio.
Cons
Build quality limitations represent the most common criticism. Watch enthusiasts frequently point out construction issues like sharp case edges, stiff crown operation, and loose components. These quality concerns affect the user experience and long-term durability.
Basic movements offer limited functionality compared to similarly priced alternatives. The Japanese quartz movements provide accurate timekeeping but lack the craftsmanship or heritage of movements from established watchmakers. For horology enthusiasts, this represents a significant drawback.
Questionable value emerges when comparing specifications to price. Similar or superior technical specifications appear in watches from Seiko, Citizen, and other established brands at comparable prices. The premium appears primarily attached to design and marketing rather than materials or craftsmanship.
Strap quality issues appear in numerous customer reviews. Leather straps often arrive stiff and require substantial break-in time. Some users report discoloration or cracking after months of regular wear. While straps can be replaced, this adds cost to the overall ownership experience.
Limited water resistance restricts versatility for active users. The typical 3-5 ATM rating protects against splashes but not swimming or submersion. This limitation makes MVMT watches unsuitable for water activities or heavy perspiration during exercise.
How MVMT Watches Perform Over Time
The longevity of MVMT watches generates mixed reports from long-term owners. Most models function reliably for the first year with proper care. The quartz movements maintain accurate timekeeping with typical deviation of just a few seconds per month. This performance matches expectations for standard quartz watches in this price range.
Battery life typically extends 2-3 years before requiring replacement. This timeline aligns with industry standards for quartz movements. Replacing the battery requires professional service as most MVMT watches lack user-serviceable case backs. This service typically costs $15-30 at local watch repair shops.
The case finish durability varies by model and usage patterns. PVD-coated cases (particularly black ones) show vulnerability to scratches that reveal the underlying metal. These marks become increasingly visible over time, especially on watches worn daily. Stainless steel models maintain their appearance better, though they still accumulate minor scratches with regular wear.
Crystal clarity presents another concern for long-term ownership. The mineral glass crystals resist minor abrasions but accumulate visible scratches over months of daily wear. Unlike sapphire crystals, these scratches cannot be buffed out without professional equipment. Some owners report noticeable scratching within 6-12 months of regular use.
Strap longevity depends heavily on the specific material. Leather straps typically show the earliest signs of wear, with creasing and discoloration appearing within months. Metal bracelets maintain their appearance longer but may develop loose pins or stretched links over time. Replacement straps cost $20-40 depending on material and style.
Water resistance degradation occurs faster than in higher-end timepieces. The rubber gaskets and seals that prevent water ingress deteriorate without regular testing and replacement. Most owners report decreased water resistance after the first year, making the watches increasingly vulnerable to moisture damage.
Movement reliability generally remains stable throughout the warranty period. However, some owners report complete movement failure after 2-3 years of use. When this occurs beyond the warranty period, repair costs often approach the original purchase price, making replacement more economical than repair.
The resale value drops considerably after purchase. Unlike mechanical watches from established brands, MVMT timepieces typically sell for 30-50% of their original price on secondary markets. This depreciation reflects both the fashion-oriented nature of the brand and the perceived quality limitations.
MVMT’s Market Position and Competitors
MVMT occupies a specific segment in the watch market. They position themselves as providers of affordable luxury – offering stylish designs without premium pricing. This approach targets fashion-conscious consumers rather than traditional watch enthusiasts.
The brand competes directly with other fashion watch brands like Daniel Wellington, Vincero, and The Fifth. These companies share similar business models, emphasizing style and marketing over watchmaking heritage. They all operate primarily online and invest heavily in social media presence.
Compared to established watchmakers like Seiko, Citizen, and Timex, MVMT offers less technical value but more contemporary styling. These traditional brands provide better specifications and build quality at similar price points but often feature more conventional designs. The choice between these options typically depends on whether a customer prioritizes style or substance.
In the luxury segment, MVMT positions itself as an affordable alternative to high-end brands. Their marketing sometimes suggests similarity to premium watches costing thousands of dollars. However, the technical differences remain substantial, with luxury watches offering superior materials, in-house movements, and generations of watchmaking expertise.
The brand’s target demographic consists primarily of millennials and younger consumers. These buyers often prioritize aesthetics and brand identity over technical specifications. They may purchase watches as fashion accessories rather than precision instruments or heirloom pieces.
MVMT’s market strategy relies heavily on digital presence. Unlike traditional watch brands with retail distribution, MVMT maintains a primarily online business model. This approach reduces overhead costs but limits opportunities for customers to examine products before purchase.
The company’s acquisition by Movado Group in 2018 positioned them within a larger watch conglomerate. This relationship provides financial stability and potential manufacturing improvements. However, some customers express concern that the acquisition might lead to higher prices without corresponding quality increases.
The Future of MVMT
MVMT continues to evolve following its acquisition by Movado Group. The partnership provides resources for potential quality improvements while maintaining the brand’s distinctive aesthetic. Recent models show subtle refinements in construction and materials, suggesting gradual enhancement of the product line.
The brand appears committed to expanding beyond watches. Sunglasses now represent a significant portion of their business, with jewelry and other accessories gaining prominence. This diversification reduces reliance on watch sales while building a lifestyle brand identity.
Design innovation continues through collaborations with influencers and artists. These partnerships introduce fresh perspectives and attract new customer segments. Limited edition releases generate buzz and create collectible pieces within an otherwise standard product line.
Manufacturing considerations may evolve as consumer awareness increases. The company faces growing questions about production practices and transparency. Future success may require clearer communication about sourcing and manufacturing processes to satisfy increasingly conscious consumers.
Sustainability initiatives represent another potential direction. As younger consumers increasingly prioritize environmental responsibility, MVMT may need to address the ecological impact of their products. Recyclable packaging and responsibly sourced materials could become selling points in future collections.
Market positioning will likely remain focused on the affordable fashion segment. While quality improvements may occur, dramatic shifts toward true luxury positioning seem unlikely. The brand’s identity remains tied to accessible pricing and contemporary design rather than horological excellence.
Retail expansion presents both opportunities and challenges. While the direct-to-consumer model works well for their current demographic, limited physical presence restricts growth in certain markets. Selective retail partnerships could expand reach without abandoning their efficient online foundation.
The competitive landscape continues to intensify as more brands target the same market segment. MVMT’s first-mover advantage has diminished as competitors adopt similar business models and marketing approaches. Maintaining relevance will require continued innovation in product design and customer experience.
Should You Buy a MVMT Watch?
The decision to purchase a MVMT watch depends on your priorities and expectations. If you value style and aesthetics above technical specifications, MVMT offers attractive designs at accessible prices. Their clean, minimalist approach works well with contemporary fashion and provides versatility across different settings.
For buyers seeking the best quality-to-price ratio, better options exist at similar price points. Established watchmakers like Seiko, Citizen, Orient, and Timex offer superior build quality, more reliable movements, and better materials without significantly higher prices. These brands provide better long-term value for technically-minded consumers.
If you approach watches as fashion accessories rather than precision instruments, MVMT delivers satisfactory performance. Their designs photograph well for social media and complement modern wardrobes. The price point allows for occasional replacement as styles change or wear occurs.
Consumers who view watches as long-term investments should look elsewhere. Unlike mechanical watches from established brands, MVMT timepieces typically depreciate quickly and don’t hold value. The fashion-focused designs may also appear dated as trends evolve.
For gift-giving purposes, MVMT watches present an attractive option. The stylish packaging and contemporary designs appeal to younger recipients. The price point falls in the sweet spot for meaningful gifts without excessive expense. The brand recognition also adds perceived value for recipients familiar with their social media presence.
If you appreciate watchmaking heritage and craftsmanship, MVMT will likely disappoint. The brand lacks the historical significance and technical innovation found in traditional watch companies. The mass-produced nature and basic components won’t satisfy horology enthusiasts.
Ultimately, MVMT watches serve a specific purpose in the market. They provide stylish, contemporary timepieces at accessible prices. For consumers who understand exactly what they’re buying – fashion accessories rather than fine timepieces – MVMT delivers acceptable value. The key lies in setting appropriate expectations and recognizing the trade-offs inherent in their business model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are MVMT watches worth the money?
MVMT watches offer appealing designs at mid-range prices. Their value depends on your priorities. If style matters most, they provide decent value. For technical quality, better options exist at similar prices.
How long do MVMT watches last?
With proper care, MVMT watches typically function reliably for 2-5 years. The quartz movements require battery replacement every 2-3 years. Physical appearance may deteriorate faster with daily wear.
Are MVMT watches real luxury?
No, MVMT watches are not true luxury timepieces. They fall into the fashion watch category with mid-range pricing and standard components. True luxury watches feature superior materials, craftsmanship, and movements.
Where are MVMT watches made?
MVMT watches are designed in Los Angeles but manufactured in China. They use Japanese Miyota quartz movements assembled in Chinese factories.
Can you swim with MVMT watches?
Most MVMT watches have 3-5 ATM water resistance, making them splash-resistant but not suitable for swimming or submersion. Extended water exposure risks damage even in water-resistant models.
How do I care for my MVMT watch?
Clean your MVMT watch regularly with a soft cloth. Avoid exposure to chemicals, extreme temperatures, and moisture. Store in a dry place when not worn. Have the battery replaced professionally every 2-3 years.
Do MVMT watches have real leather straps?
Yes, MVMT uses genuine leather for their straps, but it’s typically the lowest grade of leather. This explains why some users report stiffness and slow break-in periods.
Who owns MVMT watches now?
Movado Group acquired MVMT in 2018 for approximately $100 million. The original founders initially remained involved with the company following the acquisition.
Can MVMT watch batteries be replaced?
Yes, MVMT watch batteries can be replaced at local watch repair shops or jewelry stores. The service typically costs $15-30 and should be performed by professionals.
Do MVMT watches hold their value?
No, MVMT watches typically depreciate quickly. They generally sell for 30-50% of their original price on secondary markets, making them poor investments from a financial perspective.
