The Best 66+ Cross Tattoos in 2021
Pass by almost any church and you’re bound to see one thing: A resplendent cross either inside the building or directly outside the place of worship.
It’s a timeless symbol found in lists of the 50+ best tattoo ideas.
The cross dates all the way back to the 5th century and the time when Christianity began to make inroads as a major religion. When you think of Christianity, you’re reminded of crucifixion and the man known as Jesus and the execution style involved being nailed to a wooden cross as punishment.
What’s interesting is that both the vertical and horizontal beams were believed to represent ideas. The horizontal was seen as female, with thoughts of destruction, death and earth. The vertical beam was associated with masculinity – the idea of being eternal, active, and full of life.
Yet when it comes to the older Celtic cross tattoo things are quite different. It’s more than a symbol of Celtic faith and heritage, much like a rosary tattoo. When you see a Celtic cross tattoo, they often combine loops, knots and mazes into the design.
A Celtic knot represents the link between spiritual and physical. Loops are the ending of the circle, and the unique cross tattoo shows us the diverse paths we all take in life.
Not all men’s crosses are are religious tattoos designs; the tribal cross can be a tribute to an ancestor or tribe, while the growing Gothic cross trend links ink with pain and anger.
No matter what your reason, an amazing cross tattoo will evoke a profound connection to what you stand for and provide tattoo inspiration for others, as each beautiful cross tattoo category in this list will attest.
See more about - The Top 135 Best Tattoo Ideas for Men
1. Celtic Cross Tattoo Ideas
See more about - The Top Celtic Cross Tattoo Ideas
Few cross symbol designs are as instantly recognizable as the Celtic cross. While the image can be found in artwork and on Celtic tattoo from all over the world, the true origin and meaning behind this ancient symbol remains contested.
Scholars can’t even agree on who introduced the distinctive cross to Ireland in the first place, although the story goes that St. Patrick brought it back to Ireland with him from Roman Britain.
Some authors believe that the circle on the cross represents the Roman Sun god Invictus, while others say it represents Jesus’ halo when he was nailed to the cross.
Another school of thought is that the cross is simply a holdover from pagan religions, the iconic image combining an even armed cross within a circle—a common symbol in many pagan traditions—and the Christian cross.
2. Cross Tattoos for Men
See more about - Top 87 Best Cross Tattoos for Men
For many people the cross symbolizes faith, and faith has been known to move mountains. There is a popular sentiment that simple means beautiful in relation to a Christian cross tattoo.
But do cross tattoos have to be bland? Much like angel wings a Christian cross can be customized. There are many ways to assist making the simple cross tattoo a little cooler.
A tattoo lover can change the material, add effects around the cross, utilize any technical application, create from an established type of cross – Maltese cross, Greek Cross, Latin cross or Tau cross are just some examples – or you can settle for a wooden cross or simple cross tattoo done with 3d or negative effects.
3. Cross Tattoo Design Ideas for Women
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See more about - The Top 63 Cross Tattoo Ideas for Women
Contemporary women’s tattoo leads innovative style and placement of body art ideas.
The popular Christian cross tattoo provides an interesting design opportunity for faith-based ink and shows off a range of options for epic pieces.
Whether it’s a simple design in black ink or more interpretive pieces of ink the cross allows for meaningful symbolic tattoo ideas to showcase collector’s belief in God.
4. Simple Cross Tattoo Concepts
See more about - Top 51 Simple Cross Tattoos
We are used to seeing the cross in our daily lives as memorials.
You can commemorate the life of a friend or family member by having a tattoo artist etch a simple cross and banner across it highlighting their name to let them live on through your memory.
Perhaps you wish to showcase your faith in Christ, without the flash or flair of more elaborate tattoos. A small wooden cross, a black ink version, or culturally relevant tribal tattoo are three ideal ways to show faith this way.
Whatever tattoo inspiration you choose, know that the simplicity of clean lines and simple execution from a skilled artist can make the humblest of images a striking cross tattoo that you’ll be proud to wear.
5. Small Cross Tattoos
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See more about - Top 69 Best Small Cross Tattoo Ideas
With tattoos a significant part of personal adornment and an embodiment of free will, those of a religious mindset have taken to cross body art to demonstrate their faith.
A cross design is an instantly recognizable, simple and effective mark even if it’s a small or tiny cross tattoo. Along with the Holy Bible the cross is the most visible motif of Christianity and a meaningful symbolic tattoo choice.
It is a concrete method of demonstrating your faith via a tattoo design everyone can recognize and understand immediately, however for some being able to hide a tiny cross or small tattoo idea depending on circumstance is more important than an ostentatious neck tattoo or full back piece.
6. 3D Cross Tattoos
See more about - 50 3D Cross Tattoo Designs
An amazing cross tattoo in 3D is an ideal design for those desiring a creative edge in their tattoo.
The 3D cross tattoo can be worn anywhere on the body, particularly places of significance such as the heart (as a chest tattoo) and points of crucifixion (wrists and ankles), or as part of a larger .
Carefully employed using soft curvature and beveled sides, the 3D cross appears slightly raised in appearance. It gives the impression of so much more than mere tattoo art, but a testament to the way of life and faith you can be reminded by all the time.
7. Anchor Cross Tattoos
See more about - Anchor Cross Tattoo Ideas
The anchor cross design is a universal symbol for strength and faith, no matter the path you walk. It is the mark of one who recognizes and respects their fellow man, and aims to exercise empathy and selflessness in the face of adversity.
The earliest known renderings of the anchor cross symbol were worn by Christians fleeing Roman persecution in the time after the crucifixion; the cross used to identify fellow devotees.
The anchored cross tattoo has been adopted by Christians and missionaries as an expression of stability and perseverance. Small anchor cross tattoos can be found on wrists, ankles, as a chest tattoo or other subtle areas to signify their devotion to helping those in need.
8. Baseball Cross Tattoo Ideas
See more about - 20 Baseball Cross Tattoos
Baseball cross tattoos are beckoning you to join a pitcher’s paradise or a batter’s stronghold. There is no way to strike out with one of these beauties on display!
These extravagant creations merge God and faith with America’s national sport, epitomizing the definition of a good luck charm.
The rustic texture of a baseball is often infused with the luster of a metal cross to create a variety of symbolic sporting ink ideas.
9. Traditional Cross Tattoos
See more about - Top 51 Best Traditional Cross Tattoos
A cross design provides a range of opportunities to make personally symbolic tattoos, especially within the impactful American Traditional style of tattooing – every tattoo studio in the US has at least one artist tattooing in old school.
There are great American Traditional tattoos designs you can make or interpret, whether they come from flash sheets on the wall at the tattoo shop or traditional custom designs you have worked to bring to life.
There’s also versatility within traditional style, from heavy black ink, to classic limited color palettes and bold outlines, or even the brighter and more creative neo traditional design choices that allow more innovation from your tattoo artist and placement possibilities, such as finger, face, and neck tattoo.
10. Rosary Tattoos
See more about - The Top 103 Rosary Tattoo Ideas
The rosary holds special ties to the sacraments of reconciliation and confession.
During the process of forgiveness, the rosary aids in washing you clean of sin while also renewing the love for Jesus Christ. Of course, it also acts as a testament towards the love and mercy Jesus has to offer back in return.
Yet, aside from its purpose, you might be surprised to know this sacred symbol translates to “garland of roses” in Latin. It make sense when you consider that the first beads found on the rosary were crafted from rose petals.
11. Tribal Cross Tattoos
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See more about - Top 67 Tribal Cross Tattoo Ideas
Tribal cross tattoo designs have become an interesting form of ink based self-expression.
While most are linked with Christianity, tribal cross ideas take on more individual concepts than simple cross tattoos in black ink.
There are no specific patterns to a tribal cross; the layout, placement, and style of cross used depends entirely on the preferences of the individual collecting the tattoo.
This allows the subject a greater degree of freedom in style.
Cross Tattoo FAQs
A cross is primarily known as a symbol for sacrifice, unity and love. It is the universal reference point for Christianity.
There are varied purposes for getting inked with the cross. It’s often symbolic for both individuals and groups of believers, but also reveals stories of hope, triumph, and joyful celebrations.
After making your design decision, the next is to ensure you are selecting the right spot for you to showcase your body art – size, flow, shape, and theme are all important considerations .
Visible tattoos are becoming more popular but stigma remains attached to hand, finger, face, and neck tattoos.
There are an amazing amount of worldly cross designs you can get for your religious tattoo. Some possibilities include:
- A wooden cross
- Latin cross
- Greek cross
- Egyptian Ankh
- Tau cross
- Maltese cross
For the lapsed or unbelieving, the Gothic cross or inverted cross may be applied but will create issues with practising Christians, while the iron cross’ relationship with Nazism and white supremacy make it a definite no no.
A cross tattoo idea demonstrating blatant disrespect can create issues for the wearer, particularly in the US where ink and religion create extreme reactions.
The iron cross tattoo has ties to the German Nazi Party, white supremacy, and fascism, while the Gothic cross/inverted cross may be considered an anti-Christian symbol and has links with the occult.
The true origin behind the Celtic cross is still contested.
One story argues St. Patrick brought it back with him from Roman Britain, and that it represents sun God Invictus, or the crucifixion.
It may be a pagan holdover; a combination of an even armed cross within a circle and the Christian cross.
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.
