Finding the perfect watch can be a daunting task. With so many brands, styles, and features to choose from, it’s hard to know where to start. That’s why we created this comprehensive buying guide for Folio watches for women.

Overview of the Folio Brand

Folio is a company dedicated to creating beautiful and high-quality timepieces for women. Based in Switzerland, Folio has been crafting watches since 1921. Over the decades, the brand has earned a reputation for its elegant, feminine, and modern watch designs.

Folio offers a wide range of women’s watches in various styles. From dainty leather strap watches to luxury diamond timepieces, Folio has options for every taste and budget. Their watches combine Swiss craftsmanship with contemporary fashion to create accessories that transition effortlessly from day to night.

What Styles Are Available?

One of the great things about Folio is the diverse selection of watches available. Here are some of the main styles offered:

• Leather strap watches: These elegant watches feature slim leather straps in colors like black, brown, red and nude. The minimalist watch face with slim markers gives these watches a refined and timeless look.
• Bangle watches: For a fun pop of color, check out Folio’s bangle watch selection. These watches have thin, flexible bangle bands that slide right onto your wrist. Choose from solid bangles or two-tone metal and leather.
• Ceramic watches: For a sleek, modern look, Folio has watches with white, black or navy ceramic bracelets. The ceramic material is ultra-lightweight and smooth.
• Mesh watches: Folio mesh watches have milanese mesh bands made of stainless steel or rose gold. The thin woven bands have atrendy yet sophisticated look.
• Crystal and diamond watches: For some sparkle, Folio’s crystal and diamond watches make a glamorous style statement. The watch faces feature Swarovski crystals or diamond accents.

No matter your personal taste, there’s a Folio watch to match. The brand offers traditional leather watches, fun fashion watches, and luxurious jewelry timepieces.

How Much Does a Folio Watch Cost?

Folio watches range widely in price to fit different budgets. Their collection includes affordable fashion watches starting around $95. For mid-range options, expect to spend $200 – $500.

Higher-end diamond and luxury watches cost between $500 – $1,500+. There are timepieces available across the spectrum so you can find the right investment for your budget.

Folio watches are very competitively priced compared to other Swiss watch brands. You get excellent quality and value across all price points. Even their more affordable watches use quality materials and movements.

Where To Buy Folio Watches Online

Folio watches are sold through authorized retailers online. Here are some of the best places to shop their collection:

• Nordstrom: Large selection of the Folio line including newest releases. Free shipping and returns.
• Bloomingdale’s: High-end department store selling many Folio styles. Loyalty program for extra savings.
• Zappos: Wide range of Folio watches at discounted prices. Fast free shipping and easy returns.
• Amazon: Find affordable deals on certain Folio watch styles. Check seller ratings.
• eBay: Discover discounts on pre-owned and vintage Folio watches. Confirm authenticity.

For the best selection and pricing, check all of these online retailers to compare models and sales. Sign up for email and rewards programs for added deals.

Are Folio Watches Water-Resistant?

An important feature to consider is water-resistance. Most Folio watches have a water resistance of 3ATM (30 meters) or 5ATM (50 meters). This makes them splash and rain resistant. However, the watches are not suitable for prolonged submersion in water.

Avoid wearing Folio leather strap or bangle watches while swimming or showering. The leather and plating can become damaged from the water exposure and chlorine.

For a Folio watch you can wear swimming, look for a style with a 10ATM (100 meter) water resistance rating. These durable sports watches with silicone, nylon or rubber bands are designed for underwater activity.

Always check the ATM rating printed on the watch back to confirm its water-resistance abilities before purchase.

How to Change the Battery

Folio watches operate using a small circular battery inside that needs to be changed every 1-3 years.

Here is the process to change the Folio watch battery:

1. Turn the watch over to access the back case. Look for a small indented circle you can press on to pop open the case.
2. Use a small screwdriver or knife to carefully pry open the back case.
3. Locate the circular silver battery inside. Carefully slide it out of the holder.
4. Insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing up in the holder. Match the polarity marked.
5. Press the case back securely into place until you hear a click.

Take the watch to a jeweler if you have trouble accessing the battery. Professionals have the proper tools to efficiently swap the battery without damage.

Materials Used in Folio Watches

From the band to the watch face, Folio utilizes quality materials to ensure longevity and comfort:

• Stainless steel: The most common metal used for bands and cases, stainless steel offers durability through daily wear. It’s rust resistant for longevity.
• Leather: Different leather types like genuine calfskin or saffiano leather provide soft, adjustable bands with a refined look.
• Silicone: Flexible and lightweight silicone makes for a comfortable sports band that’s also water-resistant.
• Ceramic: A smooth ceramic bracelet gives a Folio watch a sleek, lightweight feel on the wrist. This material is scratch-proof.
• Crystals: Genuine Swarovski crystals and diamonds provide stunning accents on dressier Folio styles.

The watch face covers are typically made of hardened mineral crystal or sapphire crystal for optimal scratch resistance. High-quality materials ensure the watch remains beautiful over time.

How to Adjust the Strap

To get the perfect fit or to loosen or tighten your Folio watch, you’ll need to adjust the strap. Here’s how for different band types:

Leather Strap

• Locate the tiny clasp on the underside of the leather strap.
• Use a small screwdriver to push in the clasp and slide the strap in or out to adjust.
• Make adjustments in small increments for precise fitting.

Metal Link Band

• Seek out removable links on the band, identified by pins that go horizontal across a set of links.
• Use a jewelers screwdriver kit to push the pins out to remove excess links if needed for a tighter fit.
• For loose links, open the clasp more. Avoid removing permanent links.

Buckle Strap

• Simply slide the strap through the buckle more or less depending on if you need it tighter or looser.
• Adjust within the holes of the strap to keep it securely in place.

Are Folio Watches Suitable for Formal Occasions?

The elegant and sophisticated styling of Folio watches make them a perfect accent for formal occasions. Here are some tips on which styles work best:

• Diamond and crystal embellished watches bring the glitz and glamour for black tie events.
• Slim leather strap models in black, navy or burgundy nicely complement dressy attire. Match the band to your outfit.
• Bold gold or rose gold watches make eye-catching statement pieces for formalwear.
• Sleek ceramic and stainless steel bracelet watches have a refined, finished look for dressier events.

For daytime business formal, choose a minimalist Folio watch with a simple numerical or stick dial and metal band. More ornate watches go best for evening affairs. With classy design, Folio watches are at home with any formalwear.

What Do Customer Reviews Say?

Reviews for Folio watches are very positive overall. Here are some of the most common compliments:

• Excellent quality and craftsmanship given the reasonable prices
• Sophisticated styles that look far more expensive than they are
• Versatile watches that pair with both dressy and casual outfits
• Lightweight and comfortable to wear, not bulky or heavy
• Attractive feminine designs complement women’s wrists nicely
• Leather straps are supple and don’t irritate skin
• Durable construction that withstands regular wear and aging

The few critical reviews cite issues with quality control in bracelet links or strap fastenings in rare isolated cases. Overall though, customers find Folio watches a great value with timeless appeal.

Caring for Your Folio Watch

With proper care, your Folio watch can last for many years of everyday wear. Here are some tips:

• Avoid exposing your watch to soaps, perfumes, and chemicals which can break down the band.
• For metal bands, clean with a soft toothbrush and mild soap and water.
• Wipe leather bands gently with a damp cloth to clean. Use leather conditioner to avoid cracks.
• Rinse silicone and nylon bands with fresh water after wearing in chlorine or saltwater to prevent damage.
• Store your watch in a dry place when not wearing. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
• Consider having the water resistance tested yearly to maintain integrity.
• Take your watch for professional cleaning every 2-3 years to keep the band and case scratch-free.

With occasional maintenance and care, a Folio watch will withstand busy daily use while retaining its beauty.

Does Folio Offer a Warranty?

Yes, Folio watches come with a limited 2 year international warranty. This covers manufacturer defects in materials and craftsmanship that arise under normal wear and use.

The warranty does not apply to:

• Normal wear and tear or aging of the watch case and band
• Damage from accidents, negligence or improper maintenance
• Cracked or scratched crystal or watch face
• Water damage on non-water resistant watches

To enact the warranty, you’ll need to provide proof of authenticity and purchase date. Send the watch to an authorized dealer or Folio retailer for assessment and repair.

The Folio warranty provides peace of mind that any abnormalities in watch function will be fixed or replaced within two years. This demonstrates the brand’s excellent product backing.

Available Watch Sizes

Finding the right watch case size for your wrist is important for an ideal fit. Folio offers many of their watches in multiple sizes.

For women’s watches, common case sizes include:

• 32mm – Ideal for petite wrists or those who prefer smaller watches
• 36mm – The average ladies watch size, fitting most wrists
• 40mm – A trendy oversized watch look for women

Some styles come in even more size options like 28mm, 34mm or 42mm. Measure your wrist and try watches on in person when possible to find your perfect case dimensions.

If you prefer loose or tight fitting watches, size up or down accordingly. Folio makes this easy with varied women’s size offerings.

How to Set the Time

Setting the watch to the correct time is important for precise timekeeping. Here is how to set the time on a Folio watch:

Analog Watch:

• Locate the crown. Unscrew or pull it out to the time-setting position.
• Turn the crown clockwise slowly to move the hour and minute hands.
• Set the time by aligning the hands with the current hour and minute.
• Return the crown to the normal pushed-in position when finished.

Digital Watch:

• Locate the buttons on the side of the case, often labeled Mode, Set and Start/Stop.
• Press and hold Set until the time digits flash.
• Press Mode to toggle between setting hours, minutes, and seconds.
• Use Set to increase the flashing digits. Hold to move faster.
• Press Start/Stop once finished to exit setting mode.

Take care not to force the analog hands when turning the crown to avoid damage. Refer to your exact model instructions if needed.

Are Folio Watches Durable?

Yes, Folio timepieces are made to be durable accessories that stand the test of time. Here are some of the durability factors:

• Scratch-resistant sapphire and mineral crystals protect watch faces from damage.
• Stainless steel cases and bands resist corrosion, tarnishing, and knocks.
• Ceramic and silicone materials are tough and can bounce back from life’s bumps.
• Quality construction ensures water, dust, and shock resistance.
• Folio extensively tests all watches’ performance under pressure and extreme conditions.

While luxury watches, Folio timepieces are made for everyday wear. Their expert craftsmanship ensures longevity from the inside out. With proper care, a Folio watch will last for years of continuous use.

Available Color Options

Folio offers a spectrum of color options for their watch bands and faces to suit any style.

Some of the most popular colors include:

• Silver, gold, and rose gold metal tones – Traditional neutrals pair with everything.
• Black and white leather and silicone – Crisp, classic hues.
• Navy blue – A versatile color that flatters many.
• Tan and blush leathers – Soft earthy tones complement all skin tones.
• Red and pink – From rich oxblood to pastel, fun feminine brights.
• Green, blue, purple – Bold colorful dials in various shades.

With a full rainbow of shades across dials and bands, you can easily find a Folio watch to match your personal style and wardrobe.

Tips for Authenticating Your Watch

With many watch brands come counterfeits. Here are tips to authenticate your Folio timepiece:

• Examine markings – A real Folio watch is marked “Swiss Made” along with the Folio name on the dial.
• Review certificate – It should include a matching serial number on the case back.
• Inspect quality – Check that dial markings align and hands move smoothly.
• Verify seller – Only buy from Folio authorized retailers for guaranteed authenticity.
• Check price – Extremely low prices are a red flag for fakes.
• Confirm specs – Brand, model number, size etc should match stated description.
• Follow instincts – If initial inspection seems “off”, the watch is likely a counterfeit.

Ensuring you receive a genuine watch will provide lasting enjoyment and value.

Finding Deals and Discounts

Folio watches are a worthwhile investment, but deals make them even sweeter. Here are some tips for finding savings:

• Check Folio’s website for current sale styles and outlet deals
• Sign up for email promotions and alerts on new markdowns
• Browse department store websites for specials on Folio watches
• Look for coupon codes from online retailers to use at checkout
• Download cashback browser extensions to earn money on your purchase
• Consider pre-owned Folio watches to save upfront
• Time your purchase with biannual sales events like Black Friday
• Buy past season watches for lower prices as new lines launch

With a little strategic shopping, you can enjoy stylish Folio quality while sticking to your budget.

Styling Your Watch for Day or Night

The versatility of Folio’s designs allows you to seamlessly wear them from morning to evening. Here are styling tips:

Daytime Looks

• Pair a milanese mesh style with casual jeans and a t-shirt or blouse for weekend wear.
• Complement a sundress or jumpsuit with a slim cognac leather strap watch.
• Let a bangle watch pop against a neutral outfit of basics like black trousers and a white button-down.

Evening Outfits

• Elevate a cocktail dress with an engraved gemstone bracelet Folio watch.
• Choose a sparkling inverted diamond style to accentuate the sparkle of your evening gown.
• A black ceramic and rose gold watch adds sleek sophistication to a pantsuit.

Mix and match your Folio watch to suit your daily activities and occasions. The designs seamlessly transition from low-key days to glam nights out.

Brief Background on the Folio Brand

Founded in 1921 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, Folio began by specializing in ladies’ Art Deco-inspired pocket watches. They evolved into women’s wristwatches and opened their watch factory in 1927.

By the 1940s, Folio was leading the movement towards smaller, more delicate women’s timepieces. They introduced rectangular, oval, and curved shaped watches.

In 1959, the brand was acquired by General Watch Co (now known as Timex Group). Under this ownership, Folio continued to expand internationally and develop new fashionable, high-quality watch technologies.

Today, Folio embraces its heritage of crafting beautiful Swiss watches designed for women in a modern, contemporary style. The brand offers the latest trends along with classic, sophisticated elegance.

Are Folio Watches Sold in Stores?

Folio watches are primarily sold online through authorized retailers for maximum convenience and selection. However, some watch and jewelry stores do carry Folio timepieces in their brick-and-mortar showrooms.

Department stores like Macy’s and Dillard’s will often have a Folio brand showcase or counter. You may also find a selection at stores like Helzberg Diamonds or jewelry boutiques. Larger malls may house retailers that offer Folio watches in their physical locations.

The benefit of buying in-store is being able to try on the watches, see their detailing closely and compare models side-by-side before purchase. Visit locations near you to browse their Folio stock in person.Combining in-store and online shopping will give you the most options.

In Summary

We hope this detailed buying guide gives you all the knowledge needed to pick your perfect Folio timepiece. From feminine styles to fit any occasion to quality construction that endures, Folio creates watches suited for today’s confident, on-the-go women. Take your time considering all the factors that matter most to you – size, color, materials, water-resistance and budget. Before you know it, you’ll be checking the time in effortless style with your beautiful new Folio watch!