Guide to Buying Watches

Understanding the craftsmanship and engineering skill of a particular watchmaker is essential to anyone interested in purchasing a wristwatch. This guide to buying watches will help you understand some of the basic components and technology so you can make an informed buying decision.

Since some watches are considered in the jewelry category, knowing the value will be important to your investment.

Luxury Watches

While there are many varieties of watches; your average watch doesn’t require the scrutiny of a luxury watch. The craftsmanship, durability and materials used in a luxury watch are far superior to that of your simple sports watch or mass retail brand.

According to Forbes Magazine, the average time between watch purchases is only ninety days. Since a nice watch falls somewhere between a new pair of shoes and a car, many consumers ride the high of their first purchase and find themselves hooked on a new passion for this luxury item which often dictates a persons self image.

Ironically, most individuals remain within the same price range and brand once they have made their first purchase and rarely can be up sold. This may help you in determining where you would like to start since it is more than likely you will remain within the same category for years.

Luxury watches can be considered a valuable investment and heirloom. Gold watches are quite pricey but are considered a statement of esteem. You can also purchase these in platinum and sterling silver. High end watches have introduced a ceramic variety which is becoming increasingly popular among consumers and is available in many colors.

Bands

The band of a watch is one of the most important factors to consider when making a purchase of magnitude. The band is the added protection for your investment for without a good band, you could easily lose your new found treasure. There are two basic band styles; the bracelet or the strap.

A series of interlocking links which are made of metal are the bracelet variety. Strap wristwatches are made of a material such as leather, fabric, nylon, rubber or synthetic. The most luxurious watches are usually made of gold or platinum.

Case

It is helpful to know the materials used for the case design of your watch. This feature will protect the movement and dial and add to the durability of your purchase. The most popular case choice is stainless steel since it is attractive and also resists tarnish. Another solid choice is titanium since it is highly durable but significantly lighter for the wearer. Of course as always gold is the most prominent among luxury watches and can be found in 14-22k hues.

Movement

The interior technology of the watch is differentiated by three different categories of time keeping. Namely: Automatic, Mechanical or Quartz.

Automatic Movement

This type of movement does not require manual winding every day. These are recommended to be wound every couple of weeks to one month as they tend to lose a small amount of time without winding. The mechanical movements capture the energy produced by the owner’s arm to wind the spring.

Mechanical Movement

A spring which is located on the case requires winding each day in order to power timekeeping functions. These are chosen for the watchmakers’ skill and the intricate technology of gears and mechanism. These are highly durable and if taken care of can last for generations.