Buying watches is a wise decision. More than its functionality, the watch is an accessory that complements your style and, in addition, depending on the cost, can enhance your outfit. High-quality watches speak volumes about you and your personal style. Being an excellent way to show your personality and taste.
Watches come in all price ranges, sizes, and shapes, and with various features. From the ancient to the smart. Each has its own pros and cons, so it can be difficult to choose the perfect watch. Therefore, we will explain some basic concepts about the different types of watches, which will help you better understand what you are looking for and need.
What elements should you take into account when buying watches?
From the materials, the size, the shape, to the type of mechanism, must be taken into consideration when buying watches. Each of these elements will affect its quality, value and appearance. Remember that watches are accessories that complement our style. So we must consider all those factors that will help us determine if the one we will choose is the right one. Let’s see some of them:
The metal of the box
One of the most important parts of the watch is the case. In other words, the metal section of the watch, the complete “machine” of the piece. While many focus on durability, as it is a very important aspect to consider, the beauty of the case is also paramount in the overall appearance of the watch.
- Stainless Steel: This is the most popular option for most watch cases. This material will not corrode, change colour, or fade over time. It is also a very hard metal and quite resistant to scratches.
- Titanium: Titanium is a modern metal that is increasingly used in watch cases. It is an excellent choice as it is much lighter than stainless steel and extremely durable. As for the price, they are very similar.
- Gold: When it comes to high-quality watch standards, the gold ones rule the roost. Solid gold cases can be quite heavy, shiny, and eye-catching. It is very common among men. Yellow gold is not the only option. There are those in white gold and rose gold that are contemporary, feminine and elegant options.
- Platinum: Platinum is a rare precious metal that does not discolour or corrode and is very valuable. Its colour makes it a more contemporary and elegant watch. Buying platinum watches can be quite expensive, as it is more expensive than gold. These tend to be heavy, as this is a dense metal.
Kind of glass plane
One of the most important parts of the watch is the glass, which refers to the coating of the watch face. As you can imagine, glass must be very durable and capable of resisting breakage and cracking to some degree.
The material used to make the crystal varies depending on the quality and price of the watch. It also varies in durability and toughness. These are the most used materials for glass:
Acrylic: This material is generally found in more affordable lower-end watches. Acrylic is an affordable type of plastic that has great durability. It is very resistant to breakage, making it perfect for active people, which is why it is often used for sports watches.
Mineral glass: This is a commonly used material for many watches in the low to medium price range. It is basically normal glass that has been treated and enhanced to strengthen it. It is very resistant to scratches, but can break if it receives a severe blow.
Sapphire: This crystal is made with colourless synthetic sapphire, which is almost the same as sapphire gemstones. It is very resistant to scratches and only objects with a diamond can scratch a sapphire.
Sapphire crystal is also more expensive than most other glass materials, making it the preferred material for most high-end watches.
The right watch strap
The type of strap is critical in determining the style of the watch. Generally, metal ones are considered more elegant and formal, while plastic or leather ones are more informal and suitable for various functions.
Most watches come in three styles in terms of the shape or material with which they are attached to the wrist of the hand:
Strap watch
Watches with straps can be made of various materials, including leather, nylon, cord, rubber, plastic, and many other types of materials. These are chosen according to the purpose of the watch. Most sports watches tend to have nylon or rubber straps due to their durability and water resistance. Strap watches offer more options with colour and texture and are a versatile option.
Wristwatch
Its strap is made of metal segments, joined together to form a continuous band. It is often made of the same metal as the box. Wristwatches are very popular with both men and women and add a touch of class and sophistication to an outfit.
Bracelet watch
These watches are stylish and fashionable, and the watch looks more like a jewel than a watch. They are usually formal in appearance and ideal for elegant events or smart casual wear. They are popular with women as they have a feminine look.
What type of strap to choose when buying watches?
When buying watches, the strap you choose largely depends on the purpose for which the watch is to be worn. As well as the occasions in which you could use it. For an everyday watch, most people opt for a simple leather watch. While, if you have a more active lifestyle, the best would be a waterproof sports style. For a fancier event, you can opt for a sparkly inlaid bracelet or wristwatch.
Clock operation
This refers to the type of mechanism that makes the watch move, that is, it works. While this can become a very technical topic, and a bit tricky, let’s look at the three main types of watch movements.
Mechanical movement.
These are common in antique watches and ideal for those who love antiques. To make these watches move, a piece must be used to wind a spring within which keeps the parts moving. While these can be interesting, you will need to periodically check that the time is accurate. Most mechanical watches can speed up or slow down more than 10 seconds a day, increasing over time.
Quartz movement
It is the most popular, which is why it is found in most watches. This requires a battery to keep it moving. The battery is used to keep a piece of quartz moving at the correct frequency. Every year or so the battery will need to be replaced, but they are often quite inexpensive and do not cost too much.
Automatic movement
Automatic watch movements are mechanical watches that charge automatically due to the movements of the wearer. It does not require a battery to produce power and is instead dependent on the energy produced by its movements. They are easier to maintain and have no ongoing battery-related costs, which is why they are becoming an increasingly favoured option. However, automatic watches are more expensive than quartz watches.
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