6 tips on how to choose a watch

Selecting the perfect watch for yourself or someone else can seem a little daunting at first. Thoughts and fears can run wild: How much should I spend, should I get a leather strap or bracelet, should it be sporty or elegant? Here we try to make the idea of ​​how to choose a watch less daunting and more empowering. By following these six simple steps, you’ll be on your way to enjoying time on your wrist or giving others the great gift of timeless time.

1 - Consider the recipient first.

Before you decide to buy a watch for yourself or someone else, think carefully about that person’s interests, hobbies, style or fashion direction, likes and dislikes. Is the person a sports enthusiast, a business executive, a fashion expert or a fun-loving type of person? This should influence the type of watch you choose for them.

2 - Set a budget.

Even if you know the likes and dislikes of the person you’re buying for, you still need to think about your own wallet first. There are watches for every budget, whether it’s $100 or $100,000. You may be the type of person who wants to spend a little more when you find the right item, but having a pre-defined idea of ​​what you’re willing to spend is key. There’s no need to jump to higher (or lower) retail prices.

3 - Understand the watch movements and materials.

It’s also important to understand the different types of watch movements and materials before you start shopping, as these are factors that will influence prices as well as styles. Watches with quartz movements (which require a battery) are generally less expensive than mechanical watches with automatic or manual winding functions. Similarly, watches made of stainless steel are often more affordable than lighter titanium or carbon fiber, and more precious metals. Doing a little research of your own will help you arm yourself.

4 - Consider styles and features.

Earlier, we suggested that you think about who you’re buying the watch for. This is because this is the most important part of buying a watch. For example, if you’re buying for a pragmatist who doesn’t like gadgets and features, a beautiful three-hand watch with an easy-to-read dial might be the way to go. In terms of style, if he or she is a fashionista, consider watches with colorful dials or unusual case shapes. Features are also important. For example, if you’re buying for a sports enthusiast, perhaps a chronograph (which times intermediate events like swimming or running laps) might be the best option. If the person is a business executive or a world traveler, features like calendars, dual time zones, or world timer indications might be valuable.

5 - Consider the brand name.

The concept of brands is a bit more complex. But before you read on, understand this: You don’t have to buy a specific brand of watch. However, being aware of the best brands—at all price points—is helpful. Do a little online research before making your purchase. If you’re shopping in an affordable price range, bigger, more well-known brands may have a stronger cachet. When it comes to the more expensive watches, personal taste also comes into play. Some people are very brand-conscious and want a big-name brand, while others want to go the beaten path and look for a lesser-known brand that can deliver a lot of bang for the buck and also keep others wondering, “What’s that watch on your wrist?” Again, part of this decision-making comes back to knowing who you’re buying for and what your budget is.

6 - Relax and enjoy the experience. Remember, returns are always an option.

Shopping doesn’t have to be scary, and you don’t have to do it alone. Going to an authorized retailer or even buying new or pre-owned watches online can be exciting. Consider it a learning experience and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Sales staff and online concierges are usually happy to help and offer a little guidance. But best of all, if you’ve followed steps 1 and 2 above, you can outline this from the beginning to keep the shopping experience under control. Also, as long as you’re buying from a reputable source, remember that returns are always an option. If the person you’re gifting the watch to really doesn’t like it, a return or exchange usually only takes a few minutes.