A few years ago, my friends gifted me the Fossil Harwell ES5267. From the moment I opened the box, I was absolutely captivated. I have always loved the color green, especially when paired with gold, and this watch executes that combination flawlessly. But beyond its stunning colorway, it stands out for another reason: it is arguably the best affordable alternative to the luxurious Ralph Lauren Stirrup Small.

If you love the quiet luxury and equestrian heritage of the Ralph Lauren Stirrup but can’t justify the designer price tag, the Fossil Harwell captures the exact vibe. 

The Appeal of the Stirrup Shape

The stirrup case design immediately draws the eye. Instead of traditional lugs, the strap typically passes through the upper loop of the case, integrating the watch seamlessly onto the wrist. It’s a silhouette that feels both vintage and contemporary, perfect for adding a touch of tailored elegance to any outfit.
It is a bold, instantly recognizable case shape that acts as a piece of statement jewelry just as much as a timekeeper. 

The Inspiration: Ralph Lauren Stirrup Small

To understand the appeal of the Fossil Harwell, we first have to look at the titan that inspired this aesthetic: the Ralph Lauren Stirrup collection.

Introduced at SIHH in Geneva in 2009, the Stirrup collection perfectly captures Ralph Lauren’s deep equestrian heritage. The Stirrup Small features an iconic stirrup-shaped silhouette, measuring 27.7 x 29.3 mm, and often houses high-end Swiss movements. A steel Stirrup Small will set you back around $2,400, while solid rose gold or diamond-set versions can quickly climb past the $10,000 mark.  

For many of us who appreciate the stirrup silhouette but can’t justify that luxury markup, the market was severely lacking—until the Fossil Harwell came along.

The Alternative: Fossil Harwell ES5267

Fossil’s Harwell collection takes a very similar approach to case design, offering a distinct D-ring or horseshoe shape that immediately evokes the same equestrian luxury. The ES5267model, in particular, hits all the right style notes.

 The Look: The watch features a striking gold-tone stainless steel stirrup case. Paired with a rich green, genuine leather strap, it creates a color combination that screams “country club chic”.  

The Size: Measuring with a dainty profile (featuring a very wearable 28mm case), it sits on the wrist with the same delicate, bracelet-like presence of a luxury designer piece

 The Specs: It features a silver/white sunray dial, luminescent hands, a mineral glass crystal, and runs on a standard quartz movement.  

 The Price: Retailing for roughly $150 to $170 (or €169), it offers incredible value for its unique design.

Final Verdict

Watches are deeply personal, and a timepiece gifted by friends always carries more weight than one bought on a whim. But sentimental value aside, the Fossil Harwell ES5267 holds its own as a brilliant design. It offers that distinct, aristocratic equestrian look without the eye-watering premium. 

If you want the classic “country club” aesthetic on a real-world budget, the Fossil Harwell is currently the smartest addition you can make to your jewelry box.

Whether it was gifted to you by dear friends or bought as a self-indulgent treat, celebrating green-and-gold elegance has never looked so effortless.