A good watch should suit your wrist, your wardrobe and your daily routine. This guide covers the main things to check before you buy.
Quartz or automatic?
Quartz watches run on a battery. They keep steady time, need very little care and are usually the more affordable choice. Automatic watches are mechanical and wind themselves from the movement of your wrist, so they need to be worn regularly and serviced from time to time. Many people enjoy them for the craftsmanship rather than for accuracy.
Pick the strap for the occasion
- Leather: dressy and comfortable, best for the office and evenings. Keep it away from water.
- Steel bracelet: tough and easy to wipe clean, and it works with both smart and casual outfits.
- Mesh: slim, adjustable and modern.
- Rubber or silicone: practical for sport and hot weather.
Get the size right
Case diameter matters more than most buyers expect. Slimmer wrists often suit cases of roughly 36 to 40 mm, while larger wrists can carry 40 to 44 mm. Rectangular cases wear differently from round ones, so look at the length of the case against your wrist width.
Check water resistance
A watch described as water resistant is not always suitable for swimming. Look for the actual rating from the seller and avoid wearing leather straps in water.
Match the watch to your style
A minimalist dial with a Roman numeral face looks sharp with formal wear. A calendar or luminous dial is handy for work and travel. A dual-display or sport style suits active days.
Ready to choose? Browse our full range of watches for men and women.