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Top 95+ 3D Tattoo Ideas [2021 Inspiration Guide]
3D tattoos aren’t just interesting to look at, they can also be downright mind-wrenching.
When it comes to adding the patina of life to the skin, it takes a seriously talented tattoo artist to reliably execute a 3D tattoo design.
These types of illusions began in the 60s when Pop Art was thriving. Over time, the style has evolved into realistic tattoo and photorealism 3D art, balanced against awesome 3d tattooing techniques that’s akin to a Magic Eye.
Take a glance at this round up of the most amazing 3D tattoo ideas that challenges depth perception and makes you question your eyesight.
From skulls to animals, stars, and even biomechanical tattoos there’s numerous ideas to be inspired by.
See more about - Ultimate List of Tattoo Ideas
1. 3D Butterfly Tattoos
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See more about - Top 73 Best 3D Butterfly Tattoos
A 3D butterfly tattoo adds an intriguing element to your tattoo design. Butterfly tattoos are most often a symbol of freedom and change, and artists in every tattoo parlor needs to be proficient.
3d art built around shadows and realistic colors will bring your butterfly to life and give it a character of its own, capturing the beauty of the butterflies with grace and style.
Using vibrant, natural, realistic colors and shades on your 3D butterfly tattoo will bring your butterfly to life and give it a personality of its own while looking like it has just alighted on the wearer’s skin.
2. Optical Illusion Tattoos
See more about - 100 Optical Illusion Tattoo Ideas
designs are some of the coolest. The ability to possess mind-breaking imagery within the is almost unbelievable and makes you think you’re permanently wearing .
In contemporary , a talented can manipulate dimensional physics in bold and unique fashions to make images come alive on the .
Besides the intellectual merit behind these incredible ideas, there is also the “wow” factor to keep in mind.
If your visual trickery is formidable, then it will serve as an instantaneous conversation starter with people who enjoy an interesting .
3. 3D Dragon Tattoos
See more about - 50 3D Dragon Tattoo Ideas
With so many positive qualities surrounding it, it’s no wonder the dragon has surpassed and made its way into 3D representation.
There are many styles to choose from when selecting a dragon , with many erring on the side of tradition.
Most depictions of the dragon show a like beast with a bright pearl held in its mouth or claw, a symbol of wisdom, prosperity, and abundance.
4. Star 3D Tattoo Design
See more about - 40 3D Star Tattoo Designs
The star has been used as a symbol for the five senses, the five wounds of Christ, magic, the forces of nature, and when turned on its side, the devil.
It is also the symbol of the Dallas Cowboys (booooooo!).
People have come up with a variety of ways to wear star , creating an intricate pattern that appears to give an extra layer of texture, or that the star is poking through .
5. 3D Sleeve Tattoos
See more about - 50 3D Sleeve Tattoo Designs
3D sleeve tattoos will unleash your desire for vivid and complex with the ability to transform your into a world of its own.
Reveal your dangerous side with a bold and badass sleeve.
Any shape, symbol, or design can be altered with the wonderment of light and shadows to create a perceived depth that fools the .
sleeves commonly feature the baffling illusion of and an exposed image beneath, but many appear to protrude convincingly from the .
Other three dimensional sleeves use shadow manipulation for depth but follow a more minimalistic approach, leaving the exposed pitch black to produce a empty hollowed-out arm devoid of muscle, blood, or bones.
Those fascinated by and science fiction scenarios can show off impressive , where the is torn away to reveal the and machine beneath the flesh.
7. 3D Snake Tattoos
See more about - 50 3D Snake Tattoos
A of a snake would stop some people in their tracks. It is a very striking image, because the snake has always been associated with danger or evil.
Others might look at the symbol and connect it to rebirth. This connection is made because the snake has the unique ability of shedding its entire .
In essence, a person wearing a snake might be telling the world that they have changed or that life has forced them to shed their old and begin anew.
8. 3D Chest Tattoo Designs
See more about - 40 3D Chest Tattoo Ideas
A 3D is designed to look like they are either a part of your chest or that the image is tearing itself from it.
Imagine a that makes it look like you have ripped your open to reveal the Superman or Spider-Man suit underneath, showing others that you have hidden super powers.
You can unleash your creativity in the design of your , as these types of tattoos truly have no limits. If you can see it or conceive it, you can likely have it created as a .
You just need to find a great who has the skill to bring the right to life.
9. 3D Tribal Tattoo Art
See more about - 60 3D Tribal Tattoo Ideas
A tribal mixed with a should give the that extra kick every person desires when they’re looking for an .
Tribal tattoos are very spiritual in nature. It means that the person wearing the is in tune with the , nature and the flow of life.
Most tribal tattoos are used as to create a language of their own, made bolder with an .
10. 3D Heart Tattoos
See more about - 40 3D Heart Tattoo Ideas
The subject of countless poetry, , and introspection, the heart has earned its place as one of the most popular subjects.
Modern ideas are proof that the symbol of love will never go out of style.
Astonishingly realistic and just as gorgeous to look upon, the three-dimensional heart makes powerful .
11. 3D Jesus Tattoos
See more about - Top 51 3D Jesus Tattoo Ideas
A captivating image of Jesus in 3D comes alive to make a powerful statement of faith.
The tattoo artist achieves 3D through shading to create visual depth so that parts of an image seem to pop out. Perspective is altered to see more than a flat surface.
Powerfully communicating immeasurable, unconditional love, Jesus dying on the cross conveys forgiveness of sins.
An innocent giving his life for the guilty is a profoundly stirring message of sacrifice. The sacred imagery tells a personal story of amazing grace. It says, “Jesus died for all, including me.”
12. 3D Forearm Tattoos
See more about - 50 3D Forearm Tattoo Ideas
With 3D tattoos, you can transform your body into living art.
A 3D forearm tattoo allows you to enjoy that artwork easily. Just look down on your arm and marvel at the intricate details and the beautiful shading and other techniques that make the tattoo seem to jump right off your arm.
There are no limits to the kinds of 3D forearm tattoo designs you can get. With the 3D effect, the tattoo looks like the skin on your arm has been carved to look like rock or some other intricate design.
13. 3D Leg Tattoo
See more about - Top 50 3D Leg Tattoos
Regardless of where you wander, ink on the legs gives you the best of both worlds. For professional days at the office, a pair of pants will easily keep your body art concealed.
While shorts worn on casual days make showing off your ink as simple as it gets.
Take a step into ink inspiration by checking out these top x best 3D leg tattoos for men below. You’ll find a wide range of ideas ranging from the upper thigh down to the ankle alongside full sleeves.
14. 3D Arm Tattoos
See more about - 50 3D Arm Tattoo Ideas
Even the most apathetic of art appreciators will be in awe of the sheer technicality and skill required to create one of these designs.
The crisp color and clever manipulation of shadows will bewilder even the most well-versed lover of tattoos.
Popular themes include graphic gashes which often reveal interlocked gears or other robotic components beneath. These seemingly meaningless designs can actually carry profound symbolism about humans being treated as machines.
15. 3D Hand Tattoos
See more about - Top 50 3D Hand Tattoos
The unique anatomy of your hand creates some interesting possibilities for 3D tattoos. You can play off the different bones and tendons to create some intricate designs.
For example, you can get a 3D tattoo that looks like the skin has been pulled back to reveal wires and metal that looks like a robot skeleton. Or the skin can reveal your actual skeleton, showing off your complex anatomy.
If you prefer something more whimsical, you can get something like a butterfly tattoo or dragonfly that looks like it is perched right on your hand. Or you can turn your hand over and get a 3D design on the palm, such as a knowing eye or an orb of light.
16. 3D Skull Tattoo
See more about - Top 50 Best 3D Skull Tattoos
A 3D skull tattoo can mean several different things. Some gravitate toward the skull because of the natural association this figure has to death or darkness.
This type of person is not afraid to admit that life is futile, short, and brutal, knowing that death is the only thing that is promised, and embraces that with this awesome tattoo.
Others out there love the skull because it represents fearlessness, or because they have experienced the very worst life can offer. The skull could symbolize the fact that a part of them died with this experience, and the image is a reminder of that.
17. 3D Scorpion Tattoos
See more about - 40 3D Scorpion Tattoo Ideas
The 3D version of the scorpion is a strong symbol of a person’s essence. The scorpion is a spirit creature that shows a mix of power and reservation.
Some are interested in the scorpion tattoo simply because it connects to their Zodiac sign, which is pretty straight forward, but there are others who see more, such as the physical qualities of the creature.
They might notice that it can be as deadly as it wants to be but only when provoked. The stinger is the scorpion’s last resort, and it only uses the stinger for self defense.
The scorpion is also known as a symbol for sexuality. This is because the male of the species performs an intoxicating dance to attract a female, which intoxicates her.
3D Tattoo FAQs
3D tattoos are on the expensive end of the pricing spectrum. You don’t want such a difficult, technically precise tattoo left in the hands of an apprentice or less skilled artist.
The per hour price for 3D tattooing starts at approximately $200 and averages about $250 – $300 per hour.
The big guns charge up to $500 per hour for 3D work, but with that pricing comes a tacit guarantee that your ink will be well worth the price.
3D tattoos are becoming a hugely influential genre in tattooing due to the brilliant look you can achieve with a quality idea, and a tattooist with the artistry to see it come alive.
3D tattoos are leading the new wave because they can influence the depiction of every style and build on tradition with new interpretations.
In a word: skills. There are no shortcuts.
A successful 3D tattoo is achieved by making the artwork look like it’s a part of your body or as if its hovering over the top of it by magic.
Tattooists well versed in creating 3D pieces can create your 3D ink by the application of line work, shading, color, and space manipulation to literally add that extra dimension needed to make it come alive.
They will also have the intrinsic understanding of how to prepare your stencil/outline pre-tattoo to set up best for a rewarding experience.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
With cellphones so ubiquitous, your watch choice can be less about telling time and more about personal style. However, a watch is not ‘just’ a watch. For example, the vast majority are made for right-handed people, but a select few cater to the lefties among us. There is a wide range in functionality and size.
The wristwatch is also one of the few socially acceptable accessories for men, so why not have a small selection? If you’re not cashing a CEO’s paycheck just yet, here are the top 28 most handsome watches for men that retail for under $500.
Got a bigger budget? Then check out our guide to the best men’s watches under $1000 instead.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
1. Tommy Hilfiger Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
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If you like the feel of a pliable, non-metal band but aren’t comfortable with genuine leather, this watch comes equipped with a handsome synthetic band. At 46mm in diameter, this watch is perfect for men of smaller stature, as it will not overpower your hand or make it look like you’re wearing your father’s watch. With bold Arabic numerals, a stainless steel case, and classic styling, this watch is an outstanding choice for an everyday watch and the man on a budget.
2. Nordgreen Pioneer – Black Dial
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Not everyone has an endless amount of cash to drop on a luxury timepiece. If you’re money-conscious but want something high-end, then why not consider the Nordgreen Pioneer.
An inspired take on a classic Chronograph, Nordgreen celebrates the Danish with what they call a timepiece “that captures the sustainable future.” Available in various dial colors from blue, black, and white. There’s even the choice of three case colors – gunmetal, silver, and rose gold. A perfect addition to the collection of any watch enthusiast.
3. Fossil Grant Brown Leather Watch
This lovely offering by Fossil features slim Roman numeral hour markers and delicate cut-out hands. The casing is stainless steel and is water-resistant to 165 feet, making it a great dive watch. The band is made of supple, soft calfskin leather and uses a buckle closure.
Of course, this timepiece also comes with the generous 11-year warranty and it’s own fun tin. This watch oozes class and is great for nearly every occasion in your life.
4. Citizen Sport Stainless Steel Men’s Watch With Brown Leather Band
If you don’t want to deal with changing out a battery in a digital watch, this watch is powered by either natural or indoor lighting. The mineral crystal face and stainless steel case make this watch water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for swimmers and snorkelers.
Handsome and utilitarian, this is a great watch for everyday wear. It’s one of the best watches for men who are always on the go.
5. Fossil Men’s Machine Chronograph Silicone Watch
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This watch was designed with the active man in mind. The knurled silicone band stands up to sweat and oils without issue, and the timepiece itself is water-resistant to 165 feet.
The patterned bezel and quality craftsmanship of the black dial is excellent, as is to be expected from a Fossil watch. It even comes in the iconic and collectible tin!
6. Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Watch
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This men’s watch features Japanese quartz movement that charges itself indoors or out when exposed to light, making it a great choice for those who don’t want to change out the battery too often. The stitched canvas strap is soft against your skin and will wick away moisture, while the mineral crystal face stands up to the rigors of your everyday life.
Water-resistant to 330 feet, this dive watch is a classic and simple design you’ll be proud of for years to come.
7. Invicta Pro Diver Chronograph Men’s Watch
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Another gorgeous offering by Invicta, this watch features a bold design with a slightly nautical feel to it. It will look at home whether you’re wearing a business suit or are going for a dive of less than 660 feet. This piece is also covered by a one-year warranty as a matter of course. The luminosity feature and magnified date window make it a great choice if you work or play in low light.
If you want something that looks like a Tag Heuer but without the luxury watch brand price tag, this is a good option!
8. Casio Edifice Multi-Function Men’s Watch
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This watch has three sub-dials for 12 hour, 60 minute and 60-second displays, in addition to the standard time. It also features a fold-over, push-down clasp on the stainless strap, keeping it secure throughout your activities. If you’re looking for a classy timepiece that shrieks sophistication, this is a great choice.
9. Fossil Machine Three Hand Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
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This quality watch is a chameleon piece. It looks at home as a dress watch riding below the cuff of your best suit, and it also looks great paired with jeans and a t-shirt. Backed by Fossil’s 11-year warranty as a matter of course and beautifully crafted, this smoke-colored piece is guaranteed to become the go-to accessory for nearly every occasion.
10. MVMT Watches Black Face Men’s Watch
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If you like the look of a simple watch, this minimalist offering from MVMT is right up your alley. With just a plain black face, tick marks to denote the hours and a single date window, there is nothing overdone or extravagant about this design. The is understated and suited to the simple design. It’s definitely a classy, low-key piece for the budget-conscious.
11. Timex Weekender Watch
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If you’re looking for a fun watch to pair with casual outfits, this is a great option. The band is blue and yellow woven nylon, and the face features both civilian and military timekeeping. An Indiglo night light is also included. This watch is water-resistant to 99 feet, meaning it can withstand splashes of water or exposure to rain but you won’t want to submerge it.
12. PUMA Ultrasize Black Sport Men’s Watch
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Boasting a 50mm diameter, this piece is perfect for the large-framed man or one who likes to wear his accessories oversized. A true fashion statement, this sports watch comes in eight different colors schemes to match your favorite hues.
Do be aware, however, that the dial knob is configure for left-handed men!
13. Timex Easy Reader Men’s Watch
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Another dress watch designed with the older gentleman in mind, this watch features a white dial with generously sized numerals that do not appear comical to the casual observer.
It’s also an excellent choice if you take your contacts out at night and still want to be able to check the time. With classic lines and a simple white face, the watch would not be out of place at any casual gathering. It comes with Timex’s one-year warranty at no additional charge.
14. Fossil Nate Men’s Chronograph Watch
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For men who like a more gritty, industrial feel to their accessories, this Fossil watch is right on point. The bezel is gear-edged and the face is utilitarian black and gray. Water-resistant to 165 feet, this watch is a great choice if you like your adornments to be understated yet add visual interest.
It’s definitely a stand-out piece, for those who would take notice!
15. Timex Expedition Field Chronograph Men’s Watch
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Featuring an indigo night light, tachymeter, a date window and a buckle closure, this watch is perfect for men who like to work or play outdoors. It is also water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for snorkeling or swimming.
You won’t want to wear it for diving, however. With classic, black styling and a genuine crystal face, this is a timepiece that will stand the test of time in both form and function.
16. Seiko 5 Automatic Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
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This Seiko automatic watch has all the bells and whistles you need, but presents it all in a plain and strikingly attractive manner. It features a date window in either English or Spanish, sword-shaped hands, a sweeping second hand and a mineral dial window. This is a great option for the man on the go. The canvas strap can be removed and hand-washed if sweat or other odors become an issue.
This watch is not water-resistant, so you’ll only want to wear it when you won’t be popping by the pool for a swim!
17. Invicta Pro Diver Collection Silver-Tone Men’s Watch
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For those who prefer an all-metal timepiece, the stainless steel Invicta fits the bill nicely. It has a similar aesthetic to a Tag Heuer watch, but at a more affordable price. Equipped with a unilateral bezel and removable links, the band can be customized to fit your wrist perfectly. The face is flame fusion crystal and features a magnifier to highlight the date window.
It’s also water-resistant to 660 feet. If you’re looking for a gorgeous watch that stands up to an active lifestyle, this is an excellent choice.
18. Seiko Men’s Adventure-Solar Classic Casual Watch
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This Seiko watch derives its power from either natural or indoor light and can withstand water depths of up to 330 feet. The supple brown leather strap and timeless brushed steel give this piece an attractive look, and the alarm chronograph is easy to set.
If you’re looking for a watch that can serve as a backup for your wake-up call while traveling, stand up to the elements and look awesome, this casual wrist watch is a winner.
19. Nautica Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Blue Resin Band
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Featuring a plethora of options and a smart, snappy style, this a great casual watch with a eye-catching blue dial. The hardy resin band is adjustable, and the face is protected by a mineral window. Whether for work or play, this bold blue design is handsome and substantial on the wrist. It comes with Nautica’s five-year warranty at no additional charge.
20. Citizen Sport Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Black Leather Band
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The black, red and white face of this piece eschews the traditional two-tone color scheme so often employed in other watches, and the contrasting stitching on the band adds creative flair. It comes backed by Citizen’s five-year warranty and will compliment any casual outfit.
21. Alessi Tic15 Analog Display Analog Quartz Black Men’s Watch
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Another not-quite-round offering on our list, the curved square casing of this piece gives it instant visual appeal. Sleek and clean, this unfussy design will be a compliment to almost any occasion. It has quartz movement and is water-resistant to 99 feet, making it a great choice for everyday wear.
22. Invicta 1517 I Force Collection Watch
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Another on our list designed for left-handed men, this watch is something special. Water-resistant to 330 feet and featuring oversize stenciled numbers and a sub dial, this watch is great for any casual outfit. The cloth band is extremely durable and stands up to dirt, sweat and grime.
If you lead an active lifestyle, this watch will be right at home in your collection.
23. TRIWA Blue Steel Nevil Canvas Watch
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This watch comes in a whopping 14 color variations, all of them beautiful. You may decide to add more than one to your collection!
Designed in Sweden, this watch features Japanese quartz movement, a stainless steel casing and a strap made from Tärnsjö organic leather. TRIWA, which stands for Transforming the Industry of Watches, believes in the artistry of fine jewelry and it shows in their product.
24. Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance Watch
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Another fine dress watch from the makers of the Swiss Army knife, this watch is emblazoned with the internally recognized cross and shield emblem. It has no sub-dials, tachymeter or other add-ons to detract from its simple and appealing style.
This watch will be at home with all but the most formal of outfits and carries a two-year warranty.
25. Ingersoll Automatic Stainless Steel Bull Run Watch
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Again, Ingersoll remakes the classics and brings them into the present day. With a highly polished stainless steel casing, two sub-dials, a date aperture and arrow-shaped hands, this quartz watch is beautiful.
The band features contrasting stitching on the fine-grain leather, adding depth and detail to the workmanship. This watch will compliment any casual occasion and can be relied upon for years to come.
26. Tissot Quickster Chronograph Black Leather Men’s Watch
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Made with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and Swiss automatic movement, this watch is a smart and utilitarian choice. If you’re looking for a solid Swiss watch that isn’t flashy, this is an excellent option. It’s also guaranteed for two years.
27. Seiko Sport Solar Men’s Beige Watch
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Are you getting tired of squinting down at your watch or holding it closer and closer to your face? Don’t worry, we all get a bit nearsighted with age, especially over the age of 40.
If you’re not quite ready for reading glasses or a comically huge watch, this is a great choice from Seiko. The numerals, indices and luminous hands stand out in stark white against a black background, and the numerals are generous in size. It’s a perfect casual watch for the older gentleman.
28. Seiko Men’s 5 Watch Blue Canvas Band
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This simple and affordable watch has a clean, crisp aesthetic to it and doesn’t bog down its design with a ton of bells and whistles. It’s time and date, end of.
If you want a watch for casual wear, this Seiko is a shoo-in. The band is forgiving and comfortable against your wrist, and it’s blue color will likely compliment your existing wardrobe. The price is also extremely affordable.
29. Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Stainless Steel Watch With Brown Leather Band
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Featuring the Hilfiger logo at the three o’clock position, this wrist watch is a statement piece. It is a bright, shiny stainless steel work of art that you’ll be proud to wear at all but the most stuffy of workplaces. The calfskin leather band uses a buckle closure and the date window is beside the logo at three o’clock.
If you’re a fan of Tommy clothing, cologne or luggage, you can complete your look with this stunning accessory.
