The art of wristwatches may not be as appreciated as it once was – but it has certainly not gone out of fashion. Better yet, the art of wristwatch shopping remains – where one seeks to find the perfect watch for their aesthetic and needs.
For those that have never purchased a watch before, the experience can become quite intimidating. What makes a good watch? How much should it cost? What aesthetic is the best match? These are all valid concerns. Read below to get a better understanding of how to get started.
Watch Movements
It’s easy to assume that all watches function the same. This isn’t entirely accurate, as there are three different types of watch movements. The first is mechanical, where a coiled wire of metal needs to be mechanically wound by hand to function.
Next, there’s automatic, which is similar to mechanic minus the need for winding. Automatic watches are also called self-winding watches, as they wind up based on your body’s movements. Finally, there’s quartz. This is the most common type of watch, at least below a specific price. This system includes a battery and a small quartz crystal to power and operates the mechanism.
When it comes to choosing a watch movement, a lot of it does have to do with preference. However, remember that automatics set the standard for high-quality watches, and mechanical watches have a long history. Both factors will be in play, depending on the type of watch desired.
Watch Types
To further complicate the process, there are dozens of different watch types. However, five types tend to rise to the surface. These five include the diving watch, the dress watch, the pilot’s watch, the driving watch, and the minimalist.
The type of watch decides the external features of a timepiece. In other words, the aesthetics of a watch. Be sure to look at samples of each of these five types to decide which one best suits your taste. And don’t forget! Each style serves a different function regarding your wardrobe and look.
Complications
Some watches have extra dials, hands, and other features. These features are generally known as complications. They are yet another element that goes with choosing the right watch. As with everything else, the desire for these complications depends on need and taste.
Contemplate
Now that you understand the essential parts of choosing the right watch, it is time to decide what you’re looking for. Consider the use of the watch. Is it for everyday wear, or something more formal? Is it going to need to be durable or more of a sentimental piece?
Once these questions have been answered, it should be easier to discover the correct type of watch for you. Naturally, the next step in the process is looking up different watchmakers and deciding on which style fits your preferences best.