It's one of the most common questions people ask when buying a watch — analogue or digital? The honest answer is that neither is better. They're built for different people, different lifestyles, and different moments. This guide breaks down the real differences and helps you figure out which one is right for you — with specific picks from the Maxum range at every price point.
The Real Difference — Beyond the Display
Most people think the analogue vs digital question is just about how the time is displayed. But there's a lot more to it than that — the choice reflects how you'll use the watch, what occasions you'll wear it to, and what features actually matter in your daily life.
| Analogue | Digital | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Dress, casual, versatile everyday | Active, sport, outdoor, surf |
| Reading time | Instant at a glance | Precise to the second |
| Features | Date, multifunction dials | Chronograph, alarm, tide, lap timer |
| Durability | Great — stainless steel cases | Excellent — resin built to take knocks |
| Style | Classic, timeless, works anywhere | Modern, bold, sporty |
| Price range | $99 – $299 | $45 – $349 |
| Gifting | Strong — looks impressive out of the box | Great — functional and clearly purposeful |
The Case for Analogue
An analogue watch works in more situations than most people realise. It works at the beach, at a wedding, at the office, and at the pub — without ever looking out of place. That versatility is its greatest strength. You buy one watch and it goes everywhere.
A well-made analogue also tends to look more considered — the kind of watch that gets noticed as an accessory, not just a tool. For anyone who wants to wear something that quietly elevates an outfit without being showy about it, analogue is almost always the right call.
Analogue is Right for You If...
- You want one watch that works everywhere.
- You prefer a classic look over a sports aesthetic.
- You're buying as a gift and want something that looks impressive.
- You care more about style than feature count.
Analogue Picks from Maxum
Analogue On Sale
Lansdowne Multifunction Analogue — Gold Case, Black Dial & Silicone Strap
The Lansdowne is the analogue watch that looks like it costs twice what it does. A multifunction dial with day, date and 24-hour display in a gold case — sophisticated without being stuffy. The silicone strap makes it genuinely practical for everyday wear, and the gold tone gives it presence. Currently on sale at $175 from $249, this is one of the best value analogue watches in Australia right now.
Also available in silver, black, and full bracelet variants from $175.
Analogue
Prince Analogue Date Watch — Blue Dial, Silver Case & Bracelet
The Prince with a blue dial and red/blue bezel is one of the most striking watches in the Maxum range — inspired by classic diver aesthetics but completely approachable in everyday wear. 200m water resistance, date display, and a stainless steel bracelet that feels substantial on the wrist. The kind of watch that gets asked about. Available from $145 across multiple dial and strap combinations.
Analogue On Sale
Sydney Crystal-Embellished Analogue — White Dial, Silver Case & Blush Leather Band
The Sydney collection is in a different category altogether — crystal-embellished bezel, refined leather band, elegant proportions. This is the analogue watch for women who want something that feels genuinely special. The blush leather band with silver case is quietly beautiful and works just as well at brunch as it does at a formal event. Currently on sale at $149 from $199.
Also available across multiple dial, case and strap combinations including rose gold, green dial and gold bracelet gift sets from $149.
Analogue On Sale
Taylor Steele Analogue Dual Time Zones — Green Dial, Gold Case & Brown Leather Band
Designed with legendary surf filmmaker Taylor Steele, this is analogue with a story. Dual time zone display, 200m water resistance, brown leather band with gold case — it looks like a watch that belongs on the wrist of someone who's been somewhere interesting. Co-designed, not just co-branded. Currently on sale at $179 from $249.
The Case for Digital
Digital watches have come a long way from the chunky plastic watches of the 80s. The best modern digital watches are functional, well-designed, and built to handle conditions that would destroy most analogue watches. If you're active, outdoorsy, or spend time near water, digital is almost always the smarter choice.
Digital also tends to be better value for feature count. Chronograph, alarm, lap timer, dual time zones, tide tracking — you get more functionality per dollar with digital than you ever would with analogue at the same price. If you want a watch that earns its place on your wrist with what it can do, digital delivers.
Digital Picks from Maxum
Digital — Best Overall
Raglan Tide Digital Watch Collection
The undisputed king of the Maxum digital range. Tide tracking, chronograph with lap mode, bold square case, 200m water resistance — the Raglan does everything a serious digital watch should do and looks great doing it. Multiple colourways across black, gun metal and gold cases with new pink, white and beige strap options. As worn by Kyuss King and Jaleesa Vincent. From $175 on sale.
Digital — Best Value On Sale
Endurance Opaque & Gold Digital Watch
100m water resistance, chronograph with lap and split-time functions, clear resin case with rose gold accents — the Endurance is the best value digital watch in the range right now. Currently 40% off at $59. A genuine surf-ready watch at a price that makes it an easy decision. Works equally well for men and women.
Digital — Best Ana-Digi On Sale
Maverick Blue Analogue Digital Watch
Can't decide between analogue and digital? The Maverick is both — an ana-digi display gives you the best of both worlds in one watch. Analogue hands for a classic look, digital readout for precision and features. Currently on sale at $79 from $119. Available in green and stainless steel too.
The Bottom Line
Analogue and digital are both right — for different people. If you want versatility, elegance, and a watch that works in every setting, go analogue. If you want functionality, durability, and a watch built for an active life, go digital. And if you genuinely can't choose, the Maverick ana-digi range splits the difference beautifully.
Maxum has been making watches for Australians for 25 years — and the range reflects that breadth. Whatever you're looking for, there's a Maxum that fits.
|
Shop Analogue Lansdowne, Prince, Sydney, Taylor Steele, Liberty — from $99 Shop Analogue → |
Shop Digital Raglan Tide, Endurance, Maverick, Basalt — from $45 Shop Digital → |
Share:
What to Wear Surfing: The Watch Edition