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Watches are versatile and essential accessories anyone can wear. There is one fit for any outfit, activity, and personality as they have a wide range of styles and functionalities, from sleek and formal to practical and sporty. You can wear this indispensable fashion accessory at weddings, night-outs, and sometimes even at the pool.
However, you may be wondering why you would even need to buy a watch when you can just check the time on your phone? That’s because watches are more than just timepieces—they are accessories that show the world who you are. Watches can signify adulthood and enhance your branding. Additionally, they can be investments that embody craftsmanship.
If it’s your first time buying a watch, it’s best to know your options.
What are the Common Types of Watches?
As a beginner, you’re probably looking to buy a watch you can wear for everyday use or almost all occasions. With this, you must choose one that matches most of your outfits. An excellent choice for an all-around timepiece is a metal watch. It’s more suitable than a leather watch as that can clash with your outfit.
Another option is a smartwatch. Wearable tech accessories are popular nowadays because it’s like having a phone on your wrist. If you want to be updated with important messages and notifications, this type of watch is best for you.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for something rare and filled with history, vintage watches are perfect. These kinds of watches can be investments as they have the opportunity for return on investment. Brands like Glashütte, Doxa, Elgin, and Longines have increased their value over the years. You can buy them now and sell them later at a higher price.
Helpful Tips on Choosing Your First Watch
- Know the Movement
There are two kinds of watch movements: mechanical and quartz-powered. Watch movements affect the price of your watch greatly. Mechanical movement watches are either wound by hand or automatically through the natural movement of your wrist. The fact that hundreds of carefully assembled pieces are involved in this type of watch makes it expensive.
Compared to mechanical watches, battery-powered quartz watches are more affordable to produce since they don’t have many intricate parts with strict specifications. This movement is best for first-time watch buyers since it’s more accessible. However, if you want a traditional timepiece encapsulating watchmaking techniques, a mechanical watch is your match.
- Be Honest to Your Budget and Stick to It
Included in the factors of choosing a watch is its price point. There are affordable options and luxury selections. Two watches may look very similar but differ in materials, treatment, and brand. That’s why they may be on the opposite sides of your price range.
Make sure you set a sensible budget when browsing through watch options. It’s easy to get swayed by envy when someone else is sporting a good-looking watch. It would be best to control your emotions so you won’t overstretch yourself financially.
- Try the Watch On
For starters, it’s best to purchase a watch that you know the look and feel of on your wrist. As much as possible, review all your options by trying them on, seeing how they fit, and taking note of your preferences.
Some online stores can be misleading with specs. For example, some pilot and dive watches can look different on your wrist despite being the same size. It will all rely on the design of the lugs and bezel.
Research Before You Make a Purchase
Watches do more than just tell time. It can be a symbol of the kind of person you are. Are you the kind that values tradition and craftsmanship? Or do you appreciate simplicity and practicality?
No matter what kind you choose as your first timepiece, you must do your homework. If you want to take home the perfect watch that can last you a lifetime, researching and going over the different styles and brands will lead you to your right match.
