Top 87 Men’s Chest Tattoo Ideas [2021 Inspiration Guide]
A man’s chest is a colossal canvas and one of the most popular sites for the 50+ best tattoo ideas.
Now, there’s no doubt about it, women will notice when you take off your shirt. all clichés aside, there’s an interesting debate when it comes to tattooing the chest.
If you ask men who have had their chest tattooed, some may tell you the sternum is the worst part of the process. Other guys will say the collar bone deserves the award for being the most painful, but for everyone short term pain is likely worth it.
The following collection showcases the top 87 best chest tattoos for men. From intricately detailed portraits to rugged body armor that looks like it’s been through the battlefield, there’s something to inspire everyone.
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1. Neo Classical Chest Tattoos for Men
This black and gray piece is a combination of illustrative and realism in black and gray. It is highly rendered adding dimension such that the first thing that draws you in is the huge lion in the middle which looks like it’s crying to crawl out of the stomach. This masterpiece requires commitment from both the tattoo artist and the customer since this kind of work takes time, just like every great art piece. And, it takes time, too. The artist who patiently did this art work is not only skilled and very talented, but also possess the heart to finish such a large creation.
This is a religious creation depicting the pain and suffering of Jesus on the cross. It has amazing color, plus the shading and contouring added depth such that the end result is a more realistic approach on the body.
2. Abstract and Geometric Chest Tattoo Ideas
The all-knowing and powerful third eye looks attached to the skin like a patch work shaded in a compelling tone. It is surrounded with intricate and detailed patterns of geometrical shapes.
This is a modern interpretation of geometrical patterns wherein the placement was taken into consideration to fit the contour of the wearer’s well-toned body.
A tribal inspired chest tattoo design, boldly covering one side arm up until the midsection of the chest. It is fluid like water such that it gives the viewer an illusion of a cloth like armor draped on one side of the shoulder.
This minimalist design for the chest tattoos compliments the arm band with geometrical patterns in black fine lines. This is splashed with cool pastel colors on one side of the chest.
A name immortalized at the center of the chest with birds and featherlike impressions along the shoulder lines designed like a soft black cloak. This looks like a free hand design customize on the body of the wearer. It does not overpower the structure of the body, and leaves ample space for the eye to breathe and appreciate the artwork.
3. Men’s Skull Tattoo Ideas for the Chest
A half chest tattoo in black and gray which is big enough to be instantly understood. This is one of those pieces where first impression is captured right away by its audience. It may be illustrative in style but rendered enough to provide some realism. The skull design was popular then, and it’s still stealing the limelight now. What is astonishing on this piece is you can’t actually tell whether the wolf is about to swallow the skull or about to spit it out. If the message is all about survival and conquering death in all of its forms, then the artist is successful in getting that across.
The skull spewing tentacles of an octopus like flame. This is impressive work on details and rendering of the tentacles in black and gray such that it looks very realistic. It creeps from one side of the chest to the other. The contrast of the tentacles as it further reaches to the other side intensifies. This is a very bold chest tattoo that the wearer must have a bigger personality to match.
This is hands down a jaw dropping, elaborate, highly pigmented half body suit tattoo. The collaboration of the artist and wearer must be given a standing ovation. The amount of work, talent and commitment to complete an enormous body of art is astonishing. It is a gallery of tattoos centered on the skull with added intricate detailing and rendering to make it look realistic and cohesive.
This is an enormous skull with geometric shapes as an accent. It starts at the base of the neck until the lower torso. This is a cool way to embrace a large concept for the upper body area, starting on the shoulders, chest then down the stomach area. There are several bits and pieces here that can be lifted for inspiration.
In this creative piece it looks like the skull was added into the customer’s body in this Japanese inspired theme for the arm which extends until upper portion of the chest. This is great example of a body art done by section.
4. Bird and Feathers Chest Tattoos for Men
This definitely fits the definition of a warrior tattoo. It looks sinister enough to match the personality of a warrior as the eyes lead you to look at the menacing center of this creation. The black contouring makes this piece look like it should be worn by a brave man.
This is a romantic themed chest tattoos which pays homage on eternity, union and companionship. The birds look simple in its illustration, but looking closely there are fine dot details intricately done on the feathers which gives it depth. This is a well thought out design carefully placed to compliment the body structure of the wearer.
A very inspiring set of words, stunningly inked with a deep meaning to match right below the collar bone which is one of the more painful area to inked on. The wing gently spread out at the other side of the chest looks and feel light yet heavily countered in black. These two sets of simple chest tattoos for guys provide contrast in meaning, the longstanding battle of good and evil.
This chest tattoos take on the traditional Americana design outlined in black ink. The imploring bird wings spread out on the upper chest area looks awesome.
A watercolor inspired bird draped on the upper chest contoured in black with strokes which mimics that of the water color. This is so majestic in color and form.
5. Mandala Style Chest Tattoo Ideas
A splash of simple patterns worn on one side of this well-toned chest. It works well with his skin tone and muscle contour. This type of design does not overpower the body structure of the wearer and can move with him. The fine lines are expertly done. The human body is not a flat surface, creating lines with precision is a huge achievement.
6. Tribal Chest Tattoo Ideas
This is a very modern approach to tribal inspired tattoos. It is predominantly still shaded in solid black in some sections like the collarbone area. The lines are not perfect nor the outline of the shaded area but it is how it should be. The lines executed by hand is never perfect.
A classic tribal tattoo which has been blackened on side of the arm. It is very bold with solid black forearm. The geometrical patterns on the chest area is very impressive which matches tattoo on the arm.
A very striking piece inspired by geometrical shapes placed on both side of the chest.
The tribal minimalist design taking on sacred geometrical patterns divided in half. These precise and fine lines are extremely difficult to create taking into consideration that the skin is not a flat surface to work on. A straight line can be affected with several factors. This design is placed well that it complements the contour of the body. There is also enough space for the eyes to breathe. This creation is exquisite but certainly does not overwhelm the chest area.
It is definitely a great idea to come up with a design that moves along with your body. Movement must definitely be factored in. This is great for the guys who are looking for a unique piece that draws enough attention but also simple enough to not overwhelm the body.
7. Animal Themed Chest Tattoo Ideas for Men
A gallery of small tattoos gathered across the upper chest area. This is a design simple enough not to overwhelm the chest and enough space for the skin to breathe.
The first thing that comes to mind is, wow! The tiger is so cool, looks very beastly enough to scare the kids but the blue nose and tongue mutes out the snarl because it’s a stark reminder that it’s not real. It’s tattooed to make it look like this enormous tiger is about to break away from the whole ensemble. This tattoo is definitely not for the faint hearted. The background alone has several colors and heavily shaded packed with details that the skin will take on so much grinding to achieve these vibrant colors.
The Japanese koi fish in black and gray realism. It has masculine attributes which makes it powerful and courageous in the water. It will always endeavor to survive in the water no matter what. A popular subject matter for Japanese inspired ink work. It is very flexible and can be interpreted in various ways. It can be presented muted tones or the background can be switched into vibrant tones, either way, this fish will still be a standout.
These lovely horses’ reflection on a metal plate. They are illustrated masterfully and shaded in black and gray. The play of contrast is fluid enough to make the horses like they are moving. And in contrast the body armor looks very vibrant and detailed. The artist made sure that there is harmony once the whole concept is executed to fit into one cohesive design.
This is an interesting boat piece which looks like it’s been lifted out of a comic book. There is wit and humor in this illustration even with the how the clouds and wind is presented. This is a chest tattoo that kids and the kids at heart will enjoy discussing since it has a story chart.
The Phoenix is known to be a bird of high moral standards and prosperity. Thus, the tattoo is also worn by people of similar traits. Phenix has also the ability to be consumed by its own fire and and eventually rise from the on its own.
8. Heart Themed Chest Tattoos for Men
The heart in geometric pattern and delicately inked in very fine lines. This is a small piece of chest tattoo which is very meaningful in its placement and a constant reminder that it is the beginning and end.
The brave and enduring heart is at the center of the chest. This is the best inspiration for those who wants to get an ink and be given a central theme about ageing. One day we will grow old and gray, and the skin will not look as good since it’ll shrink and shrivel. Your tattoos will do the same. Age with you.
A heart and animal chest tattoo with the armored soldier. It is definitely well executed particularly the hair area of these animals. It also gave enough space contrast so as to provide depth.
10. Innovative Chest Tattoo Art
This chest tattoo is one of the best examples of memorializing a love one. A beautiful portrait with haunting brown eyes. A splash of color is added to showcase the delicate paper roses. The sparrow brooding and looking downwards in melancholy. This is a piece worth wearing.
The double portrait is so cool. The face inked on one side of the chest looks stunning. It was deliberately tattooed on one side of the chest, and positioned it in a way that it is perfectly nestled on top of the chest.
A biochemical piece on side of the chest which looks like the skin was ripped off to reveal that underneath it is parts of a machine. This such a breathtaking piece of art. Genius in so many levels that the onlooker will spend so much time just talking about it. It looks very masculine and would even look great for men of any skin tone.
11. Black and Gray Chest Tattoo Ideas
12. Japanese Themed Chest Tattoo Ideas
13. Linework Chest Tattoo Ideas
The potential of this outline is exciting to think about. Once the eagle shaded and filled in with vibrant colors, this piece will look outstanding.
A great chest tattoo idea, draped like a champion. The intricate patterns were done in a way that it hugs you.
14. Full Upper Body and Chest Tattoo Ideas
An enormous sugar skull inked on the skin and masterfully rendered that it looks so real such that the whole chest looks as if there’s an actual eye that’s going to pop out.
Chest Tattoo FAQs
Do tattoos on the chest hurt?
Pain ratings for body modifications on the chest area is bearable but quite high. Numerically, from the scale of 1-10, 10 as the highest, pain ranges from 8-9.5. The sternum, ribs and breastbone area, wins as the most painful among all the sections of the chest.
Outlining is tolerable versus the shading and filling in a large portion of ink is being loaded into the skin. Shading at the sternum area is like being scratched with a broken glass on the same spot, over and over. It is even considered normal for tough guys to pass out, cry and grunt loudly when the needles start to hit the midsection.
Why do chest tattoos hurt?
Because ink is being drilled into your skin over and over. It is getting a good amount of beating. It would definitely help to prepare, mind, body & spirit for the tattoo session. Provide ample time for the preparation. Grab some Advil and some numbing cream before heading to your session.
How much is a chest tattoo?
The cost for a chest tattoo will depend on its size, design and style, rate of the tattoo artist and number of hours to complete the chosen art work. The chest is a vast area to work on. A full scale chest tattoo may take about 12 hours or more to complete depending on the pain tolerance of the customer. The quality of the skin and its capacity to take in ink as modification process progresses. If the skin is healthy and tight, tattooing will be a lot easier compared to when it’s loose.
If the hourly rate averages from $100 to $150 of a regular tattoo artist whose portfolio is impressive enough, with 3 or 4 sessions to complete the body art, then the cost may $1,200 to $1,800. If you want to add more details and more colors, customize in a way that it looks like it’s an extension of your skin, or add more dimension to make it more realistic, then the cost can also go up.
If you are working on a budget, ensure you do not sacrifice quality and safety. The last thing you want to happen is badly botched tattoo the end doing alterations after, worse spend more for a removal. You also don’t want to end up incurring injuries or infections only because you didn’t want to spend a few dollars more on a reputable artist who has a licensed shop wherein your safety and well-being are taken into consideration.
Getting inked is an investment. It is a permanent body modification and will be part of your skin for a very long time. It absolutely makes sense if you execute this desire to get a tattoo carefully and diligently. Get it right the first time because the price of regret entails removal which is totally more painful, like ten times more plus twice more expensive.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.