BEST MEN'S WATCHES
The right watch doesn’t just help you keep track of time. It can also add the perfect finishing touch to your appearance. That’s why it’s so important to find a watch that’s both functional and stylish.
With so many men’s watch options available, sorting through all the choices can become overwhelming in a hurry. You need to choose the right style, band type, size, and other features before settling on a purchase.
WATCH TYPES: QUARTZ, MECHANICAL/AUTOMATIC, AND DIGITAL
Men’s watches are available in three types: quartz, mechanical/automatic, and digital.
Quartz watches feature a small clock face with hour and minute hands to mark time. They are powered by a battery.
Mechanical watches also feature a small clock face with hour and minute hands. However, a mechanical watch is powered by a wound spring that releases energy in a regulated pattern. Some mechanical watches are self-winding; others must be manually wound.
Digital watches feature an electronic display that shows the time in hours and minutes. They are battery-powered and may have extra features, such as stopwatch and/or alarm functions.
ABOUT MEN’S WATCH BANDS
Men’s watches typically feature bands made of metal, leather, rubber, or canvas.
Casual vs. Formal
Metal and leather bands exude a polished, formal look. Rubber and canvas watch bands have a more casual appearance.
Professional wear vs. weekend wear
A leather or metal band works well for work and other professional settings, while a rubber or canvas watch band is ideal for weekend and recreational wear.
ABOUT MEN’S WATCH SIZES
Men’s watch faces, or displays, come in a variety of sizes, though most fall between 34mm and 44mm.
If you have thinner wrists, opt for a watch with a case diameter between 34mm and 40mm.
If you have thicker wrists, choose a watch with a case diameter between 44mm and 46mm.
WATCH COMPLICATIONS
A watch’s “complications” are the features it offers beyond the simple displaying of time.
Many watches display the date on their face in addition to the time. Some provide the current moon phase as well.
You can also find watches that offer an alarm function and/or a chronograph for stopwatch capabilities. Watches with chronographs may allow you to calculate speed and distance traveled.
In general, casual watches have more complications than dress watches.
FAQ
Q. What can you do if a men’s watch with a metal bracelet band doesn’t fit properly?
A. Metal bracelet bands are made of individual links that allow you to adjust for size. If your watch is too big, take it to a jeweler and have them remove one or more links. If your watch is too small, contact the manufacturer to learn how to order additional links. A jeweler can then add the links to make the watch larger.
Q. What features make a men’s watch more durable?
A. If you’re concerned about durability, look for a watch with a stainless steel case and a polycarbonate face that’s scratch-resistant. You’ll also want to make sure that the watch is water-resistant.
Q. How do you keep a men’s leather watch in good condition?
A. Avoid exposing the watch to direct sunlight or heat, as these elements could cause the leather to fade or deteriorate. Don’t place the watch on damp or wet surfaces, either – leather can crack if it is exposed to moisture.
Most leather watches come with specific care instructions, so be sure to observe them when cleaning your watch to avoid any other damage.
