When it comes to watches, there are a lot of factors to consider. You need to find the right style that fits your personality, then choose the perfect color and design.
Not to mention, you also have to think about the type of material the watch is made from and its price tag. It can be difficult to know where to start when buying a new watch, but don’t worry – we’re here to help!
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive checklist of things to look for when buying a men’s watch. So whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced shopper, read on for all the information you need.
#1 – When Buying A Watch: Why Do You Want One?
The first question you need to ask yourself when buying a watch is why you want one. Do you need it for a special occasion? Are you looking for something to wear every day?
Answering this question will help you narrow down your choices and find the right watch for your needs.
There are many different types of watches available on the market, from dress watches to sports watches. And within each type, there are countless styles to choose from.
So before you start shopping, it’s important to have a good idea of what you’re looking for.
If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few questions to ask yourself:
- What type of watch do I want?
- What style of watch do I want?
- What color watch do I want?
- What material should my watch be made from?
- How much am I willing to spend on a watch?
Once you’ve answered these questions, you’ll have a better idea of the type of watch you’re looking for.
#2 – Analog Or Digital Watch?
The next question you need to ask yourself is: do I want an analog or digital watch?
Analog watches have a traditional design with an hour and minute hands, while digital watches display the time in numbers. Both have their own benefits and drawbacks.
Analog watches are generally more stylish and elegant, but they can be harder to read in low-light conditions. Digital watches, on the other hand, are easier to read in all lighting conditions but may not be as stylish as an analog watch.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference.
#3 – Type Of Strap: Metal, Leather, Or Rubber?
The type of strap you choose is also a matter of personal preference.
Metal straps are the most durable and can last a lifetime with proper care. Leather straps are also very durable, but they may require occasional re-oiling to keep them from drying out and cracking. Rubber straps are the least durable but are also the most comfortable to wear.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. If you have metal allergies, then a leather or rubber strap might be a better choice for you. If you want a watch that will last a lifetime with proper care, then choose a metal strap. And if comfort is your number one priority, then go with a rubber strap.
#4 – Mechanical, Automatic, Or Quartz?
The next thing you need to consider is the type of movement. There are three types of movements: mechanical, automatic, and quartz.
Mechanical watches are powered by a spring that needs to be wound periodically. Automatic watches are also powered by a spring, but they have a weight inside that moves as you wear it and winds the spring automatically. Quartz watches are powered by a battery.
If you want a watch that is low maintenance, then go with a quartz watch. If you want a watch that will last a lifetime, then choose a mechanical or automatic watch.
#5 – What Features Do You Want?
Now that you know the basics of watch movements, it’s time to decide what features you want. Do you want a simple watch with just the time and date, or do you want a chronograph with multiple dials?
Do you want a leather strap or a metal bracelet? How important is water resistance? These are all things you need to take into account when choosing a watch.
There are countless features that watches can have, but here are some of the most popular:
- Chronograph: A chronograph is a stopwatch function built into the watch. It generally has two or three dials on the face of the watch, in addition to the regular timekeeping dials.
- Tachymeter: A tachymeter is a function that allows you to measure speed or distance based on time. It’s generally a scale printed on the bezel of the watch.
- Moonphase: A moonphase is a complication that tracks the phases of the moon. It’s generally a small disc on the face of the watch that shows the current phase of the moon.
- Power reserve: A power reserve is a feature that tells you how much power is left in the watch. It’s generally a small dial on the face of the watch that shows how many hours of power are left.
#6 – What Can You Afford?
Now that you know what to look for in a watch, it’s time to start thinking about the budget. Just like anything else, there are watches at all different price points. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t get caught up in the excitement and spend more than you can afford.
There are a few things to consider when setting your budget for a watch. First, think about how often you’re going to wear it. If you’re only going to pull it out for special occasions, you may be able to spend a little more. But if you’re looking for an everyday watch, you’ll want to make sure it’s something that won’t break the bank.
Second, consider what features are important to you. If you’re looking for something simple, you may not need to spend as much. But if you want a watch with all the bells and whistles, you’ll need to be prepared to spend a little more.
Finally, think about what kind of materials you want your watch to be made from. If you want a luxurious watch, you’ll need to spend more on gold or platinum. But if you’re looking for something more practical, stainless steel may be the way to go.
#7 – Water Resistance
One of the most important features of a watch is its water resistance. Watches are rated according to their ability to withstand water pressure, with ATM (atmospheres) being the unit of measurement. The higher the ATM rating, the deeper the watch can be submerged without leaking.
Most watches have a water-resistance rating of 30 ATM, which means they can withstand splashes of water but shouldn’t be worn while swimming.
If you’re an avid swimmer or water sports enthusiast, you’ll want to look for a watch with a water-resistance rating of 50 ATM or higher. Some watches even have ratings of 100 ATM or more, which means they can be worn while diving.
When choosing a watch, it’s important to consider its water-resistance rating and make sure it meets your needs. After all, you don’t want to end up with a watch that can’t withstand the activities you enjoy.
#8 – Signs Of Quality
When you’re looking at watches, it’s important to be able to identify signs of quality. This way, you can be sure you’re getting a watch that will last for years to come.
One sign of a quality watch is a solid case back. This is the piece of metal on the back of the watch that covers the movement.
A quality watch will also have a sapphire crystal. This is the piece of glass that covers the face of the watch. Sapphire crystal is much more scratch-resistant than other materials, so it’s a good sign if a watch has this type of crystal.
Finally, a quality watch will have a well-made strap. The strap should be made of sturdy material like leather or metal, and it should be securely attached to the watch.
#9 – New Or Used?
Another important consideration when buying a watch is whether you want a new or used model. There are pros and cons to both options.
Buying a new watch means that you’ll be the first owner, and the watch will come with a warranty. You’ll also have a wider selection of styles to choose from.
On the other hand, buying a used watch can be a great way to get a high-quality timepiece at a fraction of the price. Just be sure to do your research and buy from a reputable seller.
#10 – Good Dial Illumination
If you want to be able to see your watch in the dark, it’s important to make sure that it has good dial illumination. While most watchmakers try to make their dials as legible as possible, some do a better job than others.
If you’re going to be using your watch in low-light conditions, it’s important to make sure the dial is well-illuminated. Many watches have a backlight that illuminates the entire dial, making it easy to read in the dark.
There are a few different ways that watches can be illuminated, so choose the one that best suits your needs. Some watches have a built-in light, while others rely on battery-powered lights.
No matter what type of illumination your watch has, make sure that it is bright enough to see in all lighting conditions.
Conclusion
A watch is an important purchase for any man, and with so many options available it can be difficult to know where to start. By following our guide, you’ll be able to find the perfect watch that meets your needs and fits your budget. Be sure to try on different watches before making a final decision, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from a salesperson. With a little bit of research, you’ll be sure to find the perfect watch for you.
