So you've decided to buy your first watch. Congratulations. You're about to enter a world where style meets function. And there's something for everyone, no matter your lifestyle and preferences. But the number of options can also be intimidating or overwhelming for a timepiece newbie. The process can feel as daunting as assembling Swedish furniture. To help alleviate some of the shopping confusion, here's a guide to finding your ideal first watch.
Size Matters
Size is a great way to start narrowing down your options. You don't want something that looks like a dinner plate strapped to your arm or a penny glued to your wrist. Most people with smaller wrists choose more modestly sized watches, and those with more robust frames go larger. However, much of this decision comes down to preference.
Large face watches make a bold statement, while smaller timepieces are more subtle. Think about the vibe and feeling you want; that's just as important as the size of your wrist when choosing the size of your watch's case.
Strap In
Most of a watch's comfort—or lack thereof—comes from the strap. Try on different materials. Durable nylon, metal, silicone, and leather are common options. Each will feel different on your wrist.
The strap—also called a band or bracelet—also determines the style vibe of your watch. Leather and metal options tend to look more formal, while nylon or silicone create a casual feel. That brings us to our next point.
Style Statement
Do you want to be James Bond or Indiana Jones? Your first watch should scream, "This is me!" or if you're the more subtle type, at least whisper it.
Dress Watches
Perfect for formal events or if you want to channel sophisticated British spy vibes. These are sleek and simple and exude elegance and luxury.
Military Watches
Rugged, sporty, and designed to survive your adventures, military timepieces tend to be casual and loaded with features.
Smartwatches
If you want your watch to inform you when you receive an email and notify you when your pizza has arrived, this is your jam. Smartwatches look casual and contemporary, not red-carpet-ready.
Every style serves a purpose and sends a message. Choose one that reflects who you are. And if you are a different person on Tuesdays at 3:00 p.m. than Fridays at 11:00 p.m., you may need more than one watch.
Budget Bottomline
There are watches for every budget, from "I paid for this with money from my sofa cushions" to "This cost more than my car." Deciding on a price point is a great way to quickly narrow your choices.
Under $100
These watches are basic but functional. They will do a decent job telling time and usually offer few additional features. Materials may not be as hard-wearing as those at higher price points, so your timepiece may soon be sporting battle scars. These less-expensive watches work for people who want to dip their toe into the watch world without spending much.
$100-$500
In this range, you will find plenty of options. You can buy watches with features like calorie tracking, multiple alarms, dual time zones, and outstanding water resistance. Whether you want a tactical digital watch or a gleaming analog beauty, there's something in this range. You can also upgrade to more rugged materials and more reliable timekeeping than those in the cheaper price range.
$500 and Up
This is high end watch territory. At this price point, you find elite watches you can show off to friends and use to impress dates. They are usually made with top-of-the-line materials, so they resist scratches and dings. These timepieces will have impressive movements—that's the mechanism that keeps time. When you spend this much on a watch, you have a piece that will likely last you a lifetime.
Bells and Whistles
Your watch is more than just a pretty face. When shopping for your first timepiece, think about any specific features you will find helpful.
Date Complications
No, we aren't talking about when you forget your wallet and can't pay for dinner. A date complication is a function on your watch that displays the date.
Water Resistance
Some watches are so precious and sensitive that you should remove them before swimming or even showering. Others can resist several atmospheres of water pressure, meaning you can take them down to 50 or even 100 meters without worry.
Power Source
A quartz watch is powered by a small battery. Automatic watches usually run off of power stored from the movement of your arm. That means you won't need to wind it as long as you wear it regularly. (Some automatic watches do require regular winding, though these are becoming increasingly uncommon.) Finally, there are solar-powered watches.
Making a Choice
Choosing your first watch is a journey, and you only get one first adventure. Take your time, research, and let your personal style and lifestyle guide your choice. Once you've caught the watch bug, it may not be long before you plan your second, third, and fourth purchases. Or you may find you are a one-and-done kind of watch wearer. Either way, your watch is an outward representation of who you are and what you want the world to know about you. Choose carefully.