Are you in the market for a new men’s wristwatch but don’t know how to choose a man’s wristwatch? The wristwatch industry continues to grow, while statisticbrain.com reports about 1.2 billion units are sold worldwide each year. It’s a big market so it can be tough to determine how to choose a man’s wristwatch, for example. Today’s smartwatches are significantly different from the world’s first wristwatches.
However, the function of providing the wearer with the current time hasn’t changed in over four centuries since a watchmaker gave England’s Queen Elizabeth I a timepiece. Due to the high number of options, it can be tough to pick the best men’s wristwatch for your needs.
We’re here to help! We’ll help you sort through all the models available based on factors like the brand, materials, design, display, features and price. If you can figure out the essential features you need, you can then narrow your search based on the wristwatch models that best suit your situation.
For example, by determining whether you want a digital or analogue display and the price range based on your budget, you can then fine-tune your search to the perfect choice for your needs. The “perfect” men’s watch is the one that suits your needs to a tee.
Key Features When Picking a Man’s Wristwatch
#1 Quartz or Automatic
Many watch lovers will only pick a men’s wristwatch with mechanical movements. The old-school functionality is a good thing for them. The problem is most watches today feature quartz instead of automatic movements.
An automatic watch works by using the watch wearer’s wrist to wind up the mainspring. So it’s the arm’s movement that juices up the watch.
Luxury watch brands like Rolex and Omega produce their watch movements in-house. Meanwhile, mid-range automatics usually include calibres from companies like Sellita and ETA.
While watch aficionados typically wouldn’t consider buying a quartz watch, there’s an irony. Automatics are by far more accurate!
#2 Price
As when making other major purchases you should set a budget before shopping for a men’s wristwatch. Then just as importantly—stick to it!
Several factors determine the price of a watch including the following:
Brand: Companies like Omega and Rolex are top-tier brands. However, you can still find budget-friendly timepieces from makers like Seiko, Casio, Tissot, Citizen, Diesel, and Fossil.
Dial: This includes various features like the hands, printing, and logo.
Crystal: This is the watch’s mineral glass that protects the dial/hands. Quality crystals will help to prevent scratches, chips, and cracks.
Case: The metal that holds the wristwatch’s components is also critical and can even help the watch to appreciate over time.
#3 Style/Design
Make sure to consider the overall design and style of a man’s wristwatch. For example, you could go with the state-of-the-art Apple Watch Series 4 or an old-school mechanical watch. It really depends what you fancy.
There are several different styles to pick from, but the main ones are:
- Luxury
- Casual
- Sport
- Vintage
There are so many styles available it can be tough to sort through them. You can use various resources like watchmakers/jewelers, or men’s magazines like GQ or Details.
Doing some research can help you sort through the various new and classic styles/designs on the market. For example, you might want a classic analog design or modern smartwatch design. Do your homework to pick the best one for your wants and needs.
#4 Wearability
This involves different issues but is ultimately about whether or not you enjoy wearing the watch. Even if a particular men’s wristwatch has lots of bells and whistles, it’s arguably not worth considering if you don’t feel like strapping it on in the morning.
On the technical side this involves the components like the dial, crystal, case, and band. If you like those items on the watch, then you’ll be more likely to wear the timepiece daily instead of once in a blue moon.
You should also consider whether the watch symbolizes your personality. If you’re outgoing, then a flashy smartwatch might be the best choice. Meanwhile, if you’re introverted, then an old-school mechanical watch might be better.
#5 Analog or Digital
Analog watches include the old-fashioned look with clock hands and digits/roman numerals around the outside. This differs from digital watches that show big numbers across the watch’s face like smartphones.
The men’s watch “type” is typically based on the style of watch you pick. Casual/luxury watches usually have analog faces while sport watches have digital interfaces.
Each type of watch has pros and cons. Analog watches are more difficult to read, but they’re also easier to use. Meanwhile, digital watches are easier to read but are more complex to use. Consider which option best meets your needs.
#6 Company/Retailer
This is of the utmost importance even though it’s not related to the watch itself. Make sure to do some research about the watch company.
You should consider issues like how long the company’s been operating, and whether it’s received mostly positive or negative reviews. Take to social media and read some testimonials from past customers.
You should also research a potential retailer where you might buy the wristwatch. For example, Amazon is more likely to provide a good shopping experience since it’s the world’s largest online retailer.
You should also read some reviews about the retailer from past customers. Did they have a mostly positive or negative experience?
Remember:
Do your homework
The Internet is an excellent resource to learn about men’s wrist-watches including issues like various brands, components, and features. You can also research reviews of watch companies, retailers, and models.
Consider the true value
A watch’s total is about more than just the price. You should consider other issues like its features and functionality. There’s also the value to you. A watch you don’t wear doesn’t really provide you with any value.
Look for warranties/guarantees
Men’s wristwatches often have warranties and sometimes guarantees. You should consider whether the warranty is comprehensive or limited, and how long it’s valid for. The watch company and retailer can both offer warranties.
Companies also sometimes offer guarantees. These can provide returns, exchanges, and refunds. Make sure to find out what the guarantee covers and for how long.
