How to Choose a Watch

Watches serve a bevy of functions -- from being a fashion element, serving as diving equipment, to assisting as a workout aid. Before acquiring a new watch, here are some points to think about:

1. Find out what you will be using the watch for, and how many watches you will own. If you just want to own one watch, that watch must work in a variety of conditions dependent on your lifestyle and intended usage. If you are planning on buying many watches, you can include in your list specialty watches that are specific to the activities in which you take part.

2. Weigh other features that may pertain to you. Some models blend both digital and analog faces on one watch. A water-resistant watch is fine for occasional water exposure and general use and can be worn in the shower. But for diving, be certain to check the depth rating. If you are a biker or you take part in other competitive events, a timer (often referred to as a chronograph) will be highly desirable. If you travel frequently, an alarm feature is very convenient, as is the ability to support several time zones. If you are buying a watch as a fashion statement, gemstones are an elegant addition high-end watches.

3. Understand the mechanics of the watch in which you are interested. Virtually all contemporary watches use a battery-powered quartz crystal to maintain correct time. Mechanical watches use gears and springs to keep the time. While mechanical watches are evocative of times past, they call for occasional servicing. The elite watch makers build their own mechanisms. Lesser watch manufacturers acquire their mechanisms from third-parties.

4. Take a close inspection of the watch outer casing. Most higher-end watches will have a screw-on back and screw-down crown (the winding knob); this gives the most protection from dirt and water. Some watches also have a back that lets you see the gears and mechanisms that drive the watch. Common case materials used for watches include titanium, gold, silver, stainless steel, and platinum. If you are wanting a durable casing material for your watch, stay away from gold. While it appears stylish, it is the softest case material used.

5. Carefully look at the crystal on the watch (this is the clear surface covering the watch face). Acrylic crystals are cheaper, they offer reasonable shatter protection but may be more easily scratched than glass. Sapphire crystals are terrific, and the most expensive, option for watches. They offer first-class clarity, shatter resistance, and scratch resistance.

6. Be sure the band is comfortable and secure. Leather bands provide a rugged, understated look. Nylon bands are quick drying, strong and secure. They are the best choice for sports watches, but you won't be blazing any fashion trends with one. Segmented steel bands have a clean look, a good feel, are one of the most popular options. They can be hard to adjust though.

7. If you are mulling over a self-winding watch, take into account how often the watch will be worn. Self-winding watches don't really wind themselves. They make use of the movement of your body to charge their winding mechanism. If your self-winding watch may often spend several days not being worn, you'll find that it will slow down and you'll have to set your watch often.

Article Source: http://www.dummiesguideto.com

The author is an enthusiastic collector of watches. He enjoys writing watch reviews, many of which can be found at watch-reviews.com.

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