Michael Kors Watches Review 2023 (Pros, Cons, & Verdict)

Written by – Updated on November 4, 2024

If you're looking for fashion watches that offer practicality, versatility, and style, Michael Kors should be your go-to option.

Established in 1981, the namesake brand has been manufacturing luxury items such as footwear, accessories, perfumes, fragrances, and watches.

For this Michael Kors watch review, we will specifically go over the best watches, its recent history, and whether or not you should buy these watches.

Michael Kors Dylan Watch - Best Overall

The Dylan collection is the best one on this Michael Kors watch review. It boasts a groundbreaking design and unparalleled features.

We have to start with its wide variety of color choices. If you want to go for the luxurious feel, pick timepieces with a rose gold stainless steel case or silver plated bracelet. [R]

For those with minimalist taste, some watches contain matte black and blue colors. You can even show your support for the LGBTQ community by sporting watches with pride colorways.

Indeed, the colors complement one another, giving you a stylish watch that can be worn at home or in the office.

Other prominent features comprise a scratch-resistant mineral crystal, a buckle clasp closure, a three-hand quartz movement, and water-resistant abilities of up to 100 meters.

By buying the Dylan series, you are treated to the best overall Michael Kors Watch for men and women.

Benefits

  • Multiple color options
  • Scratch-resistant mineral crystal
  • Stainless steel case
  • Three-hand quartz movement
  • Water-resistance of 100 meters

Drawbacks

  • None

Michael Kors Access Gen 4 MKGO Smartwatch - Best Value

If you want a watch that provides high-end features for a reasonable price, I suggest buying the MKGO smartwatch.

Unlike most Michael Kors watches that apply quartz or automatic movements, the MKGO smartwatch uses a touchscreen watch movement.

One advantage of this type of movement is it lets you adjust the time on the fly, especially if you travel to countries with different time zones.

You also get to manage your smartphone notifications, Spotify music, calendar settings, and other third-party applications.

A built-in fitness tracker, heart rate monitor, accelerometer, and LED flashlight are included. One of the strongest aspects of the MKGO timepiece is the 24-hour battery life. [R]

There are multiple colorways to choose from. These include red, blue, black, white, etc. You can even pay homage to the K-Pop sensation Blackpink with its black strap and pink case.

Benefits

  • Touchscreen watch movement
  • Smartphone notifications
  • Fitness tracker
  • Heart rate monitor
  • LED flashlight
  • 24-hour battery life

Drawbacks

  • Does not come with an internal speaker
  • Bluetooth headphones are needed for listening to music

Michael Kors Vonn Watch - Best Budget Pick

The Vonn watch is one of the few timepieces that go for below $100. Hence, it is the best budget option that can save you loads of money.

For starters, it contains large watch dimensions such as a case diameter of 44 mm, case thickness of 10 mm, and a width of 18 mm. These measurements are suitable if you have a big wrist.

You also get a three-hand quartz movement, which is powered by a battery for reliable timekeeping. The grey dial rose gold Arabic numbers and hour line-markings go well with the watch's three-link stainless steel bracelet.

Wearing the Vonn series while swimming is made possible with the 100-meter water-resistant depth. Its stainless steel case gives your watch the necessary protection against rust or corrosion.

We can agree that among all the other Michael Kors watches, the Vonn collection provides top-tier performance at an affordable price tag.

Benefits

  • 44 mm case diameter
  • 11 mm case thickness
  • 18 mm width
  • Three-hand quartz movement
  • Easy-to-read dial and analog display

Drawbacks

  • None

Michael Kors Penn Watch

Another Michael Kors watch that holds its own is the Penn watch. Like most Michael Kors watches, this timepiece offers outstanding features and a classy look.

We cannot deny the watch's complementary features. Luminescent hands and hour line-markings fill-up the silver-plated dial.

There is no discomfort on the wrist thanks to the black silicone strap, which provides smooth results and guaranteed skin protection. [R]

Similar to other Michael Kors watches, the Penn watch has a water-resistance of up to 100 meters. It is also one of the most lightweight watches in this review, with a weight of 2.8 ounces.

Additional features such as a quartz movement, analog display, mineral crystal, and buckle clasp improve the Penn watch user experience.

Benefits

  • Luminous hands and hour line markings
  • Easy-to-read dial and analog display
  • Black silicone strap
  • Lightweight composition
  • Water-resistant of up to 100 meters
  • Quartz movement
  • Buckle clasp

Drawbacks

  • 44 mm case diameter may be too chunky for some people

Michael Kors Gage Watch

The Gage series holds its own against the Michael Kors watches. It should be regarded as another premier timepiece among watch fans and collectors.

The genuine black leather strap and rose-gold steel casing give your watch a combination of comfort and style. One distinguishing factor between the Gage watch and other watches is the presence of minute display markers.

Coupled with a precise quartz movement, you get easy access to the exact time of the day. Every single minute is recorded.

Three sub-dials enhance the readability and accuracy of time readings. It is also easy to put on or take off the watch, thanks to the buckle clasp.

With 100-meter water resistance and unidirectional bezel to measure time spent underwater, you can take this watch with you while swimming.

Benefits

  • Comfortable leather strap
  • Quartz movement
  • Minute markers
  • Sub-chronograph dials
  • 100-meter water-resistant depth
  • Unidirectional bezel

Drawbacks

  • 5.76-ounce size may be too heavy on the wrist

Michael Kors Merrick Watch

If you want to feel like royalty, the Merrick series is another Michael Kors watch that is good as gold. A gold-plated steel band and case accompany the black sunray dial.

The components of the dial also match the exterior colors of the said timepiece. Luminescent hands, alternating gold Arabic numbers, and line markings make the watch face and dial easy-to-read.

However, fashionable watches are not enough. Thankfully, the Merrick watch does not run out of features to optimize your user experience.

Reading accurate time becomes possible with its superior quartz movement and easy-to-read analog display. Like the Michael Kors Gage Watch, the Merrick timepiece provides minute markers for precise time readings.

Three sub-chronograph dials surround your main dial for more advanced time tracking abilities. With the Merrick series, you get the best of both worlds in terms of royalty and functionality.

Benefits

  • Gold-plated steel case
  • Luminescent hands
  • Quartz movement
  • Easy-to-read analog display
  • Three sub-chronograph dials

Drawbacks

  • Mineral crystal window is less scratch-resistant than sapphire crystal

Michael Kors Slim Runway Watch

The Michael Kors Slim Runway watch has minimalism written all over it. Consider this model if you need a low-maintenance timepiece or simply want to add to your collection of watches.

The Slim Runway series comes in different colors and variations. You can go for either red, black, gunmetal, gold, etc. Each version comes with a monochromatic dial that matches the color of your watch. [R]

Also, luminescent hands and an analog display consisting of hour line markers improve the watch dial's readability.

A deployment clasp lets you open and closes your watch without any hassle. Powered by a quartz movement, the watch provides accurate and dependable data for timekeeping.

While other watches pack a lot of features, the Slim Runway watch applies a minimalist approach that is attractive as it is functional.

Benefits

  • Minimalist dial
  • Luminescent hands
  • Easy-to-read analog display
  • Deployment clasp
  • Quartz movement

Drawbacks

  • Lack of chronograph features
  • No minute markers

Michael Kors Lexington Watch

The Lexington series is another set of watches that do not disappoint.

You get to choose from an array of color options such as navy blue, green, gold-tone, silver mesh, black, etc. These choices allow you to pick a watch with colors that best fit your personality.

Its monochromatic dial, analog display, and hour line-markings make your timepiece easy-to-read. A date display can be found in between the 4 and 5 o'clock positions.

The outer dial ring contains a split-second track. Unlike other watches that have minute markers, Lexington timepieces can measure elapsed time in seconds.

As a result, you get more precise time readings thanks to this feature and analog quartz movement. The 45 mm case diameter and 13 mm case thickness are capable of fitting those with big wrists.

Water-resistant qualities of 100 meters let you briefly immerse the watch in water.

Benefits

  • Monochromatic dial
  • Easy-to-read line-markings and analog display
  • Split-second track
  • Quartz movement
  • 45 mm case diameter
  • 13 mm case thickness
  • Water-resistant of up to 100 meters

Drawbacks

  • Size of 6 ounces may be too heavy on the wrist

Michael Kors Access Runway Gen 4 Smartwatch

The last watch we have for this review is the Access Runway Gen 4 Smartwatch.

A touchscreen watch movement is a primary method for tracking time. It allows you to calibrate time adjustments and even display time zones from other locations.

The AMOLED display makes it easy to see the time even under poorly lit conditions. [R]

Like most smartwatches, you can access and control Global Positioning System (GPS) settings, Near Field Communication (NFC) payments, music, and smart notifications.

Its Bluetooth function helps you to connect your smartphone with other wireless devices. [R] The Access Runway Gen 4 smartwatch contains a 24-hour battery life and a rapid charger.

The digital timepiece has a multitude of color patterns to choose from like black, gold, white, silver, pink, etc.

Benefits

  • Touchscreen watch movement
  • AMOLED display
  • GPS settings
  • Cashless payments
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • 24-hour battery life

Drawbacks

  • Battery life may rapidly decrease depending on how many apps are open

What Is the Story Behind the Michael Kors Empire?

Now that we have finished discussing the different Michael Kors watches, let us review the man's life and backstory behind the brand.

Michael Kors' Early Childhood and Teenage Years

Born in Long Island, New York, on August 9, 1959, Michael Kors is no stranger to the fashion industry. [R] In fact, his first-ever project was designing his mom's wedding dress back when he was just five years old.

During his adolescent years, Kors renamed his parents' house the Iron Butterfly, which became an exclusive shop full of clothes, gear, and accessories he handcrafted.

Birth of the Michael Kors Brand

The 1980s and 1990s featured a whirlwind of events for the New York-based fashion designer.

In 1981, Dawn Mello, a fashion director, was impressed with some of Kors' creations. After further review, Mello convinced Bergdorf Goodman to allow Kors to debut his woman's label.

Because it became such a hit, Michael's collection became available in Bloomingdale's, Neiman Marcus, and other stores all over the United States. Eventually, his namesake brand became a licensee in the early 90s.

After filing for bankruptcy in 1993, Kors went back to designing creations for other labels.

His efforts paid off when the Michael Kors brand became the first ready-to-wear designer brand under Celine, a French fashion shop for women. [R]

Current Status of The Michael Kors Franchise

After his stint with Celine, Kors shifted his focus on building his fashion empire via the launch of the Michael Kors Holdings Ltd (MKH Ltd).

The company's collaboration with people like Lawrence Stroll and Silas Chou, formerly associated with Tommy Hilfiger in 1989, resulted in the brand's overhaul. [R]

Things got better for the brand when it entered into 10-year licensing agreements with Fossil in 2004 and 2014, thus enabling the production of Michael Kors watches.

As of today, MKH Ltd has 555 shops and concessions all over New York, America, and the rest of the world.

Why Should You Buy Michael Kors Watches?

These high-quality Michael Kors watches should be more than enough to persuade you to buy such watches.

However, if you still need more convincing, here are some reasons why you should sport a Michael Kors watch:

Aesthetic Appeal

One reason why you should buy Michaels Kors watches is their fashionable designs.

aesthetic appeal

Michael Kors dedicated his whole life to designing stylish dresses, accessories, and clothing. Therefore, it is safe to say his brand puts a premium on creating watches that appeal to those who want to upgrade their outfits.

Its attention-to-detail and meticulous craftsmanship are second-to-none. Expect to make one bold fashion statement should you purchase any of these Michael Kors watches.

Accurate Time Derivations

With Michael Kors watches, fashion meets functionality. These watches provide reliable timekeeping abilities. With all Michael Kors watches, each second runs precisely with its quartz and automatic movements.

accurate time derivations

Should you experience some inconsistencies with the time readings, the crowns can help you adjust the minute and hour hands.

Longevity

Since Michael Kors watches consist of the most durable materials, you will enjoy timepieces that can last you weeks, months, and even years.

The enterprise commits itself to create watches with the utmost excellence in terms of design and longevity.

Affordable Price Range

If you review their prices closely, you can say that Michael Kors produces luxury watches for around $100 to $250. Some watches even have a price range of less than $90.

These price points emphasize the brand's emphasis on catering to the everyday buyer, or those who are on a low budget.

Wrap Up

Hopefully, you learned a lot in this Michael Kors watch review, from the founder's background to the different watches currently available. May you buy a timepiece that gives you everything you need and then some.

I also invite you to read more than one review if you still need additional knowledge about the brand's history and other Michael Kors watches for men and women.