Believe it or not, almost 80 percent of Americans have smartphones and use them on a daily basis. And most people rely on them for checking the time.
So, does that mean that watches are outdated? Hardly!
In fact, luxury and quality watches are one of the best ways to show off your personal style. Even better, they work without having to charge them every night!
But if you’re like most people, buying a quality timepiece can feel a bit daunting.
It doesn’t have to be. Here are a few simple tips to help make the buying process as simple and fun as possible.
Table of Contents
1. Set a Budget
Before you can start looking for a watch, you need to set a budget. Remember, quality watches are worth more than the cheap knockoffs you find at big-box retailers.
Beautiful high-quality watches cost anywhere between $100 and $5,000. The price goes up based on the types of materials, features, and of course, designer or brand.
Look at how much you have to spend on the watch alone. Then, narrow down your search to your unique budget.
As a general rule, it’s always best to save up instead of settling on a watch that you don’t love.
2. Research Your Options
Once you have a budget in mind, you need to research the types of watches at your price point.
There are dozens of watch styles, materials, and features to choose from. And at each price point, you need to research the brands you’re interested in.
Some brands focus on durability while others focus exclusively on style and design. Others, like the TAG Heuer Connected offer a balance of both.
3. Understand the Movement Types
Watch movements refer to the way the second-hand moves across the watch face. And there are two main types: mechanical and quartz.
Mechanical
Mechanical movements allow the second hand to sweep across the face in a more fluid motion. Watches with these types of movements require great skill and training to make. This makes them more expensive, but also indicate the overall quality of the watch.
Unlike standard mass-produced watches, you need to wind your mechanical watch to keep it going. This tightens a spring which then powers the timekeeping mechanisms in the watch—no battery needed.
Quartz
Quartz movements provide the more standard ticking movement of the second hand. They’re easier to produce and are often more affordable than mechanical movements.
These watches get their power from a small button battery. Keep in mind that many high-quality watches still rely on quartz movements.
4. Decide on the Right Features
There are almost as many watch features as there are manufacturers. And each feature will offer different benefits.
For example, if you’re a swimmer, you’ll want to consider a diving watch that can handle pressure changes and water without issue. If you work in dim lighting, you’ll want a watch with a backlit face.
Consider how you want to use the watch and find the features that match those needs.
5. Look at Your Hand and Wrist Size
Watch sizes are based on the size of the watch face, not the strap itself. And the more petite you are, the smaller the watch you’ll want.
The average watch size for men is about 40 millimeters in diameter. For women, it’s between 35 and 38 millimeters.
These watches are ideal for most people and give the wearer a more proportionate look. But what if you like the chunky look? That’s okay!
If you want the watch face to stand out or like the look of a thicker band, opt for a larger watch. You can always change out the band for a more secure fit.
6. Pay Attention to the Warranties
Every high-quality watch manufacturer offers warranties on their products. The warranties protect against manufacturer defects that could cause the watch to break.
Before you settle on a brand or a particular watch, look into the warranty details. Make sure you’re comfortable with them before you make the purchase.
Remember, quality watches cost money and you always want to protect your investment.
7. Buy From an Authorized Dealer
The counterfeit industry is an approximately $461 billion business. And counterfeit watches are a big component of the industry. And they’re widely circulated through online retailers.
Even experts have a hard time telling an authentic watch from a counterfeit online. After all, what you see in the picture might not be what you get.
Save yourself the trouble and the money by buying your watch from an authorized dealer.
Look at the brands you’re interested in and check their websites for authorized online retailers or local stores near you. When you buy from a dealer, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing the watch you buy is authentic and worth every penny you paid for it.
8. Find a Repair Place
Watches break. It’s a fact of life. But when you have an experienced repair technician you can turn to, getting it fixed won’t be a problem.
Before you spend the money, make sure you know where to take the watch if it breaks. This helps keep your manufacturer’s warranty in place and further protects your investment.
9. Make Sure You’ll Wear It
A watch is only worth the money if you know you’ll wear it and love it. If you’re not completely sure of a particular brand or design, keep looking!
There are thousands of options out there. With enough research and searching, you’re sure to find the perfect option for your sense of style.
10. Keep the Search for Quality Watches Simple
It’s easy to overthink your search for the right watch. But doing so makes the search even harder.
If you find yourself struggling to pick the perfect option, take a step back. Create a list of must-haves for your watch and narrow your search down from there.
Stop at local watch stores and try some models on. You don’t have to buy from them—you just have to get a feel for the watches you’re interested in.
When in doubt, go with your gut.
Final Thoughts
The perfect watch is different for everyone. But one thing’s for sure: there are tons of quality watches that are perfect for your sense of style.
Start searching and don’t settle on a watch because it’s a good deal. Stay true to your sense of self and your personal aesthetic.
But if you’re still developing your sense of style and aren’t’ sure how to accessorize, don’t panic. Check out our recent posts for helpful tips and inspiration.
