How to Choose a Watch

From LoveToKnow Watches

If you're in the market for a new timekeeping accessory, just how to choose a watch that meets your needs and style? Do you want a timepiece for casual wear or in the office? Are you a sportsman who needs a rugged watch for mountain hikes and ocean diving? No matter your taste in style or price range, there's a watch perfectly suited to your needs. Using our extensive catalogue of watches, manufacturers and models, finding the right fit can be easier than you think.

How to Choose a Watch: Types

Sports Watches

Diving, hiking, camping and other sports take their toll on a watch, so don't skimp on features to save a few dollars. Choose timepieces with a tough titanium case and scratch-resistant dial covers. Also, look for screw-down crowns and high water resistance ratings to keep out the elements. It's also a good idea to choose watches with high-contrast dials and large faces so you can read the time with a quick glance.

Casual Timepieces

The number one factor in choosing a watch for everyday wear is comfort. Check the band for adjustability and ease of replacement. An often overlooked factor in casual watches is water resistance. It's important to make sure you have a sealed watch to keep sweat and everyday moisture from seeping into your timepiece. You never know when you'll get caught in the rain.

Formal and Elegant Watches

More a matter of taste than function, formal watches can be chosen on looks alone. Go with versatility and choose a stainless steel casing and band to minimize the chance of clashing with your wardrobe. Black or silver on white dial colors is also a must to keep colors fairly neutral. Also, go with narrow bands and smaller dials to minimize intrusion. A watch is a sophisticated fashion accessory, not the center of attention.

Fitting your Watch

Always try on a watch before you walk out of the store. Slip the band around your wrist and adjust to a comfortable tightness. Shake your arm from side to side and see if it pivots around your wrist. Thrust your hand back and forth to check if it slides up your arm. And of course, slide your hand in your pocket a few times to get a feel for the new timepiece.

Make sure the band doesn't pinch your skin too tightly and can be adjusted to fit your wrist's diameter easily. Often you can have links removed from stainless steel bands to create the perfect fit. Check to see how easily the band can be changed, especially if it's leather, as they tend to wear out faster than stainless steel or titanium.

Where to Buy

Many of the most prestigious brands of watches are only available in authorized retailers, so online shopping isn't always an option. Use our extensive watch catalog to choose a few watches you're interested in, then go to the retailer's official website for details on purchasing the timepiece. Avoid sketchy retail sites, especially online stores that promise deals that sound too good to be true.