Fossil ES5489 Harlow Quartz Gold-Tone Bracelet

Fossil ES5489: Harlow in Full Gold

The Harlow is Fossil’s octagonal dress watch, and the ES5489 in full gold-tone with crystal accents is the version that leans into the design’s geometric DNA. At 27mm, it’s sized for smaller wrists but makes an outsized impression through shape and detail rather than diameter.

Geometry That Works

The octagonal case is the Harlow’s signature, and it looks best in gold-tone. The faceted edges catch light differently than a round case would, and the crystal-set bezel that extends from the lugs adds sparkle without veering into costume territory. The textured white dial keeps things legible and clean, with three hands and no unnecessary clutter.

Sized Right

At 27mm, the ES5489 sits comfortably on smaller wrists where a 36mm or 40mm watch would overwhelm. The 16mm lug width keeps the bracelet proportional to the case. The gold-tone stainless steel bracelet uses a five-link design with a double-press deployant buckle, which is a step up from the fold-over clasps you sometimes see at this price.

Simple and Reliable

Quartz three-hand movement means accurate timekeeping and zero maintenance beyond a battery change every few years. Water resistance is 3 ATM, which covers hand washing and rain but not swimming. Mineral crystal protects the dial. This is a watch that does its job without demanding attention for anything other than how it looks.

The Verdict

The Harlow ES5489 is for anyone who wants a dress watch with more personality than the standard round case. The octagonal shape and crystal accents give it presence that belies the 27mm size. It’s a going-out watch that also works at the office, and the gold-tone execution is the strongest in the Harlow lineup.