In today’s electronics-filled world, time-keeping is at best a secondary function of wristwatches. Whether it’s the computer at your desk or the cell phone in your pocket, chances are you already have an extremely precise clock at your disposal.
So why own a wristwatch? For many people, especially men, a timepiece is a major style-defining statement. Becoming a trend-savvy horology expert requires a major time investment, however, so we developed these easy-to-follow guidelines for choosing and buying the right wristwatch.
The Everyday Watch
As the term suggests, this is your default timepiece — a watch for wearing at work, the grocery store, or while playing a casual round of golf. Make sure it’s durable enough to withstand frequent use and it’s a neutral style that easily fits in your wardrobe. One option is stainless steel, which is strong, rust-resistant and neutral in color. Black and blue dials are also common color choices because they tend to mesh with jeans or slacks.
The Leather Strap Watch
Often dismissed, a watch with a leather band can fit a wide range of looks from formal to punk. A silver, steel or white dial with a black leather band creates an especially formal look, perfect for pairing with a tuxedo or suit.
The High End Watch
A fine luxury timepiece is the ultimate statement of sophistication and class. With their fine craftsmanship and noteworthy heritage, these watches are mostly for formal occasions.
The Digital Watch
Digital watches, which come in a wide variety of styles and colors, are usually the most affordable type of timepiece. These casual watches are best suited for exercising or outdoor activities, and tend to lack the prestige associated with mechanical or automatic watches.
Automatic (Quartz) vs. Mechanical
Although quartz watches tend to be more accurate, affordable and widespread, there is something irreproducible about a mechanical watch. Just like an audiophile obsessing over vinyl, the romantic tic of a mechanical clock powered by springs and gears reminds timepiece aficionados of centuries-old clock-making heritage and the thrill of achieving near-perfect time-keeping without electricity.
Seiko 5 SNK ($50-$100)
Small in price and stature but big in variety, quality and wearability, the Seiko 5 series includes five major features: automatic movement, water resistance, day and date shown on the same dial in a single window, a recessed crown and a durable case and bracelet. Originally developed in 1963, the most sought-after of the Seiko 5 series are built in Japan.
Vostok Amphibia ($60 – $100)
Best known for its affordable price and seemingly limitless array of dial options, the humble Vostok Amphibia is a true classic. A brutally simple design, the original Amphibia was the USSR’s practical attempt at elevating diving watches similar to styles seen in Switzerland, at a fraction of the cost.
Seiko SKX007K ($150)
A decently performing entry-level diving timepiece, this Seiko watch is well-known, rugged, efficient and safe to use in depth up to 200 meters. Keep it authentic by retaining the watch’s signature rubber band.
Orient ($130 – $300)
For over 50 years, Orient has produced respectable timepieces that utilize Japanese movements. Two models in particular stand out at this price point: the Orient Mako, primarily a dive watch, and the Orient Symphony, a good option for an everyday or formal watch.