For many of us wrist watch are not only a device that shows the time, but also a status accessory. Firstly, the watch itself, namely the brand, case material, and most importantly the price, demonstrate your taste, status and financial condition. Secondly, beautiful men's watches give men solidity, and women's watches give elegance to women. Agree, if you have a Maurice Lacroix watch on your hand, then a person’s first impression of you will be quite good. In this article we will try to give you useful tips about how to choose a wristwatch.
Next we will consider the following questions:
How to choose the right watch
In order to choose the right wristwatch, you need to focus not only on the watch brand, but also on its price. Yes, undoubtedly, an expensive watch cannot be the wrong choice, but, nevertheless, the watch has a lot of technical features that you need to pay attention to when choosing a model, so that it not only emphasizes your status, but also suits you in terms of its main characteristics .So, let's move directly to the watch parameters that you need to consider when purchasing.
Mechanism
The first thing you need to start your choice with is the type of watch mechanism. Watches are mechanical and quartz. Let's look at their features in more detail.
Mechanical watches
Mechanical watches are watches that have a very complex movement mechanism, which was invented many centuries ago, but is still in great demand. Design mechanical watch consists of springs and wheel gears, which, when interacting with each other, produce the movement of the watch. The service life of high-quality mechanical watches is about 20 years. Mechanical watches operate without a power source, which is very convenient - you only need to wind them once every 3-4 days. But, nevertheless, they have their drawbacks.
Probably the most important disadvantage of mechanical watches is their timing error, which ranges from 10 seconds per day. The accuracy of the movement is affected not only by the serviceability of the mechanism, but also by the position of the watch and the ambient temperature. Mechanical watches require more complex repairs, which can affect the price.
Quartz watch
Quartz watches are based on a quartz oscillator, which creates electrical oscillations that keep the watch running. This mechanism ensures a more accurate movement of the watch, the error of which is no more than 20 seconds per month. Quartz watches do not need to be wound periodically, which will be very convenient for many. Thanks to this design, quartz watches can include other additional functions, which we will discuss below.
Time display
Today there are 3 ways to display time: pointer, electronic and combined.
Switch
The arrow method of displaying time is when time is displayed using arrows. Depending on the model, there can be either two hands - hour and minute, or three - hour, minute and second. The second hand can be placed either on the main dial or on a separate one. The pointer method of displaying time is the only way to display time on a mechanical watch, and as one of the display options on quartz watches.
Electronic
Electronic way of displaying time - when time is displayed using numbers. For some, this method of displaying time is more convenient. This method of displaying time is used only in quartz watches. Thanks to this, in addition to displaying the time, informers for other watch functions can be displayed on the dial.
Combined
As you may have guessed from the name, the combined time display uses both pointer and digital time display methods. This time display is used exclusively in quartz watches.
Separately, it is worth mentioning the existence of a new time display system “Twelv”, which displays each hour in a separate color, and minutes – in a kind of space filling, something similar to the Moon. But there are very few models of such watches and they have not gained such wide popularity, perhaps due to the fact that they were recently created, or perhaps because of their unusualness or inconvenience.
Number type
If you prefer an arrow display of time on your watch, then decide for yourself what type of numbers on the dial you would like. The numbers on the dial can be either Roman or Arabic. Each option has its own advantages, which we will talk about when giving advice on choosing a wristwatch.
Also, it is necessary to determine the number of digits on the dial. The dial can be: 12-hour, 4-hour and 24-hour. Most often you can find watch models with a 12-hour time format; this type is called classic. That is, the display shows numbers from 1 to 12, which is actually very convenient and familiar. In order to relieve the load on the watch display, the creators sometimes place 4 digits on the dial: 12, 3, 6 and 9. Such watches are convenient for their minimalism, but as they say, they are not for everyone. In addition, it is very rare, but you can also find watch models with 24 numbers on the dial, but not everyone will be comfortable with this arrangement of numbers. It is also worth mentioning those watches whose dial does not have numbers at all, but consists of 12 divisions - for lovers of minimalism.
Time format
The time format is how time is displayed on a digital display. There are three time display formats: 12-hour, 24-hour and combined.
With a 12-hour time format, the day is divided into 2 periods of 12 hours: before noon and after noon, designated “AM” and “PM”, respectively. This is very convenient, since we are accustomed to perceiving time precisely according to this system, for example: “three o’clock in the morning” or “two o’clock in the afternoon.”
The 24-hour format displays the time of day as usual, starting at 0 hours 00 minutes and ending at 23 hours 59 minutes. This format is most common in European countries.
The most convenient are watches with a combined time format, when the user can independently choose in which format the watch will display the time.
Second hand
As a rule, the vast majority of hand watches have a second hand on the main dial. But there are also watch models in which this hand can be moved to a separate dial, or absent altogether. Determine the presence of a second hand in a watch based on its need.
Energy source
Watch power sources may vary.
As mentioned above, in a mechanical watch the source of energy is a spring mechanism, which, thanks to its pressure, drives the entire mechanism of the watch. When the spring winding weakens, the watch stops and must be wound again, or to prevent this from happening, rewind it. One plant usually lasts for 48 hours. In addition, there are models of mechanical watches with self-winding. With self-winding, your watch will wind automatically without you having to worry about it. Automatic winding occurs through vibrations when a person moves, so if your activity exceeds 8 hours a day, then automatic winding will be effective for you.
The power source in a quartz watch is a battery; its charge lasts for several years. This option is convenient for those who forget to wind a mechanical watch or who need additional functions in their watch.
Another power source for the watch is a solar battery. That is, the rays of the sun falling on the watch pass through the translucent dial and fall on a photocell, which converts them into energy and accumulates it, which actually powers the watch mechanism. But such an energy source is very inefficient, since the clock needs to be periodically exposed to sunlight, and this is difficult if you work in a room where there is no sunlight and in winter, when solar activity is very low.
Clock shape
Clocks come in the following forms:
- Barrel-shaped;
- Square;
- Round;
- Oval;
- Rectangular;
- Rhombic;
- Non-standard shape.
Watch type
There are four types of watches:
- Children's;
- Women's;
- Men's;
- Unisex.
Housing material
There are quite a lot of materials from which cases are made. There is no point in listing them all, so we will list only those that, in our opinion, are the best and are very popular.
Gold
Of course, the very first thing worth noting is the watch cases made of gold. A gold case is one of the most prestigious and beautiful. Despite the softness of this metal and the very high price, it is still one of the best.
Platinum
The most expensive metal for the watch case is platinum. Compared to gold, platinum is a harder metal, but it is also heavy. As a rule, watch cases are made from platinum to order.
Palladium
Palladium is also often used as a watch case material. Surely you know about this metal; it is often called “white gold”. Palladium looks similar to platinum and is lighter than it. The metal itself is very good, since it does not oxidize and no traces of corrosion appear on it, and most importantly, its surface is highly polishable.
Titanium
Titan – good material for a watch case: it is quite light, very durable, and also quite beautiful in appearance. Such watches, as a rule, have a fairly reasonable price compared to previous materials.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel watch cases are quite common. The body made of this metal is very strong and durable. The disadvantage is that scratches form on the surface of the case, which can later be removed by polishing. Ideal ratio prices and quality.
Plastic
The most budget-friendly watch case material is plastic. Its only advantages are practicality and low cost.
Bracelet or strap
The wristwatch is fixed on the hand using a strap or bracelet.
The straps are: leather, textile, plastic and silicone. As for leather straps, they are more comfortable because of their softness and look very nice on the hand. Textile straps are an alternative to leather ones; they are cheaper, but naturally not as durable and strong. Plastic and silicone straps are used in cheap and children's watches.
As for bracelets, they are made from various metals: gold, stainless steel, titanium and other materials. The bracelet of a watch is also an indicator of its price and your status. Sometimes the bracelet plays an important role in the beauty of a watch, no less than its case. If you choose a watch for status, then this is a watch with a gold bracelet, but if you want something simpler, then this is a stainless steel bracelet.
Skeleton
A skeleton is a watch with a transparent case through which the clock mechanism is visible. These watches are very beautiful, just imagine that you will be able to constantly see this wonderful mechanism, consisting of constantly moving gears, springs and wheel gears.
Glass
The last parameter that you need to focus on when buying a watch is the type of glass covering the dial. There are 4 types of glass to protect the dial:
- Plastic glass;
- Mineral glass;
- Sapphire crystal;
- Combined glass.
How to choose a men's watch
First of all, men's watches must be chosen based on what their purpose is. If their purpose is to tell time, then these are watches made of steel or titanium. If you want your watch to emphasize your status, then this is a watch whose case is made of: palladium, gold, and best case scenario from platinum. If you prefer a watch with a strap, then, of course, give preference to a leather strap. Regarding the bracelet, for status best option- These are watches with a gold bracelet, and more practical ones - with a stainless steel bracelet. For status, it is better to choose a watch with an arrow time display and a 12-hour dial with Roman numerals.Also, in addition to time, a watch may include: a calendar, an alarm clock, a chronometer, a chronograph, a compass, a stopwatch, a backlight, time for several time zones, etc.
It is worth mentioning such useful features of the watch as shock resistance and water resistance. If the watch is shockproof, then its mechanism will be protected, but keep in mind that this does not protect the case and protective glass from damage. A waterproof watch prevents moisture from getting inside, so depending on the watch's water resistance rating, you can shower or dive into water to a specified depth.
How to choose a women's watch
For the fair sex, dial watches are best suited. Watch case material: stainless steel or gold. As for the numbers on the dial, it is best to give preference to minimalism. For status, it is better to give preference to a watch with a bracelet; a more practical watch with a leather strap.Women's watches, as a rule, do not include such wide additional features as men's ones, and they are actually of no use. The only thing we can note is: shockproof and calendar.
Which watch brand to choose
The most popular watch brands in terms of sales are:- Appella;
- Casio;
- Citizen;
- Essence;
- Fossil;
- Haas;
- Jacques Lemans;
- Jowissa;
- ORIENT;
- Romanson;
- Skagen;
- Timex.
We recommend choosing the following brands from Swiss watches: Appella, Patek Philippe, Jaguar, Nina Ricci, Philip Laurence.
Which gold watch to choose?
If you want to buy a gold watch, we recommend the following brands: Romanson, Dolce&Gabbana, Appella, Breguet, Jaguar and OMAX.
The most popular men's watches of 2014
Finding a good watch can be very difficult, especially if you are looking for a good watch and are on a fairly tight budget. There are thousands of watches for men from hundreds of watch brands. Some luxury brands are prohibitively expensive. However, if you look carefully, you can find quality men's wristwatches that are affordable.
If you find that it is difficult for you to choose the best watch for you, then you should start your choice by identifying the brand. If you identify brands that offer quality men's watches at a relatively modest price, then you can make a more effective choice correct watch that will suit your needs, style, and more importantly will be within your budget.
Below are the most popular brands watches that produce the most popular men's watches, while maintaining a balance of affordability and quality, i.e. Golden Rule"price quality". Therefore, expensive premium watches Omega, Rolex and others are deliberately excluded from the list.
10. Victorinox. Known for producing multi-purpose military knives, Victorinox has also started producing some of the best men's wristwatches at a reasonable price. Having developed an innovative quartz movement, they continue to improve the watch. Victorinox watches are the perfect combination of reliability and craftsmanship, making them one of the best watches for men.
The most popular Victorinox men's watch is the Victorinox Swiss Army Chrono Classic Gray Dial . The price of the watch is about $400.
9. TAG Heuer. They are a typical macho watch. One of the best watch brands, which celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2010. The first Carrera watches appeared in 1963, after which it introduced the world to some of the best chronographs and quartz watches such as Formula One, Aquaracer, Monaco and Grand Carrera. Known for their unusual designs, TAG Heuer has created excellent sports watch. Despite the breakthrough innovative technologies And unique design, TAG Heuer watches remain the most affordable.
The most popular TAG Heuer men's watch is the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Stainless Steel. The price of the watch is $1194.
8. Seiko. The brand is widely recognized for its fine craftsmanship and many innovative designs. This Japanese watch manufacturer has put a huge number of watches on the market. Seiko is the official timekeeper of many major sporting events, including the Olympic Games and World Cups. Precise timekeeping and inspired design, combined with an affordable price, make Seiko one of the best watch brands for men.
The most popular Seiko men's watch is the Seiko SNP007 Coutura Kinetic Perpetual. The price of the watch is $500.
7. Hamilton. A brand that produces watches exclusively for men. Their military style watches (many watches were produced during the Second World War) are made with impeccable workmanship, equipped with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and increased water resistance. Which makes them ideal for everyday and active wear.
The most popular Hamilton men's watch is the Hamilton HML-H69419363 Khaki Field Green Dial. The price of the watch is $270.
6. Tissot. This brand is famous for producing multifunctional watches. Tissot began its history in 1853 and since then has continued to produce some of the most advanced watches on earth. Tissot watches use advanced technology and have a luxurious appearance. However, the Tissot brand remains accessible by offering the best quality watches at an affordable price. They have a rich collection of universal ones for men and women.
The most popular men's watch from Tissot is Tissot T17152652 PRC 200. The price of the watch is $450.
5. Cartier. Has a huge range of high quality men's watches. Cartier offers well designed watches. Cartier watches contain a multi-time zone feature that is very useful for travelers. Cartier also offers a lifetime warranty on battery replacements.
The most popular Cartier men's watch is the Cartier Tank Francaise Stainless Steel Midsize. The estimated price of the watch is about $4000.
4. Bulova. Bulova is one of the best watch brands for men. Their watches are known for their precision craftsmanship. The watch is equipped with a sapphire crystal and a Swiss automatic movement. The watch has a modest price, but at the same time looks like a premium watch. Bulova uses many components made in Switzerland, but the watch itself is assembled in the USA. Bulova is currently owned by the Japanese watch manufacturer Citizen, but has a reputation as an American watch brand. Bulova watches are probably the most accurate watches on Earth. Bulova claims to be a pioneer in producing mechanical watches with 10-second accuracy per year. This is much better than the 15 seconds per month that is acceptable for mechanical watches.
The most popular Bulova men's watch is the Bulova 96A108 Automatic Mechanical. The approximate price of the watch is $375.
3. Citizen. Citizen watches are known for their stunning designs. Every watch lover admires the amazing quality of Citizen watches. Citizen watches are equipped with unique features of satellite communication, a perpetual calendar, a 24-hour dial and the ability to recharge the watch from the sun. Featuring Eco Drive technology, the watch does not require battery replacement for many years. Citizen offers high performance wristwatches at a relatively low price. Some Citizen watches look quite simple, but they are perfect for the modern man.
The most popular Citizen men's watch is the Citizen BM8180-03E “Eco-Drive”. The price of the watch is $145.
2. Timex. Timex revolutionized the watch industry with their smart watches. They have a whole collection of high-tech watches for men. Timex watches feature cutting-edge design, good durability and build quality. Timex sports watches feature highly durable designs, multisport functionality and top-notch performance. Whether you want to climb to the top of the Himalayas or descend to sea level, there's a Timex model for every situation.
The most popular Timex men's watch is the Timex Ironman Triathlon 42 Lap Ana-Digi. The price of the watch is $500.
1. Casio G-Shock. Casio is the industry leader when it comes to ultra-modern and high-tech watches. Casio offers a huge collection of stylish and powerful watches. Casio watches are designed to withstand daily wear and tear. Its shock-resistant G-Shock technology makes Casio watches look tough and versatile. Casio watches are equipped with atomic timekeeping, contain sunset and sunrise data, a countdown timer, and the time of 48 cities around the world. The watch is also equipped with a luminous dial. The watch has a self-charging mechanism from the sun and a rechargeable battery. Solar power technology ensures that your watch will work perfectly and you will always have access to additional functions. Casio watches are made for everyone. Are you a scuba diver? Do you want a multifunctional watch that will help you plan your daily routine? Want a durable and tough sports watch? Looking for a watch exclusively for the city? Casio will offer watches for everyone. Casio watches are reasonably priced and come with unique features that you won't find on other watch brands in the same price range. And with such features, Casio is the number one brand in our list of the best watch brands for men.
The most popular Casio men's watch is the Casio G-Shock G100-1BV Classic Ana-Digi. The price of the watch is $100.
If you understand that your need is charitable assistance, then pay attention to this article.
Those who, without your participation, may lose an exciting business have turned to you for help.
Many children, boys and girls, dream of becoming pilots on the track.
They attend classes where, under the guidance of an experienced trainer, they learn high-speed driving techniques.
Only constant exercises allow you to overtake correctly, build a trajectory and choose speed.
Winning on the track is based on good qualification. And, of course, a professional kart.
Children who participate in clubs are completely dependent on adults, because lack of money and broken spare parts do not allow them to participate in competitions.
How much pleasure and new sensations children experience when they get behind the wheel and start driving the car.
Maybe it is in such a circle that not only Russian champions grow up, but even future world champions in this sport?!
You can help the children's karting section, which is located in the city of Syzran. They are in a really bad situation right now. Everything rests on the enthusiasm of the leader: Sergei Krasnov.
Read my letter and look at the photos. Pay attention to the passion with which my students work.
They love this developmental sport and really want to continue learning.
I am asking you to help the karting section in the city of Syzran survive.
Previously, there were TWO young technician stations in the city, and each had a karting section. There was also karting at the Palace of Pioneers. Now there is not a single station in the city, and the circle in the Palace of Pioneers was also destroyed. They closed it - it’s hard to say, they simply destroyed it!
We fought, wrote letters, and everywhere they had the same answer. About five years ago I went to the governor of the Samara region for a reception. He didn’t accept me, but my deputy accepted me.
After that, we were given premises where we were based. We have a lot of children who want to go karting, but very poor material conditions do not allow us to recruit children.
And most of the karts require repairs. This is the situation our circle is in.
We also turned to the mayor of the city of Syzran for help. This is the second year we have been waiting for help. We decided to turn to you via the Internet for help.
You can contact me, address for PACKAGES, 446012 Samara region, Syzran, Novosibirskaya street 47, through social networks SERGEY IVANOVICH KRASNOV. or write to the mail [email protected] YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4AHkKA-LDAwjALyHr0JzEw/videos?view_as=subscriber Always, being on the wave of success, you need to do works of mercy, give alms. And if the Lord helps in difficult circumstances, then do not forget about gratitude afterwards. Then He will not forget about your needs.
The fact that a quality wristwatch is the most important accessory men's style, perfectly emphasizing the high social status and the man's taste is beyond doubt. However, not everyone can afford to purchase watches from prestigious brands at incredible prices, and if a person is not a true connoisseur of watchmaking, it is not necessary to do so.
Today, the market offers a huge number of inexpensive brands of men's watches, which are commonly called budget watches. In many cases, this does not mean that the reliability of the mechanism of such models leaves much to be desired. After all, usually the huge cost of the most expensive men's watches in the world is due to the presence of precious metals, a lot of additional functions (often unnecessary) and the popularity of the brand itself.
TOP 5 BUDGET MEN'S WATCHES
TIMEX
The American company Timex Group USA was founded back in 1854, and today belongs to the Dutch corporation Timex Group BV. Since its formation, the brand has positioned itself on the market as a less expensive alternative to prestigious European brands, including Swiss men's watches. The Waterbury Traditional Chronograph features a stainless steel case, IINDIGLO® Light-Up and water resistance to 50 meters.
A country- USA
Price - 129$
For a hundred years, the Japanese brand Citizen has been producing relatively inexpensive men's watches from the very High Quality. The brand's signature feature is Eco-Drive technology, which ensures stable operation of the watch mechanism over a long period in virtually complete darkness. The Men's Strap model is considered an excellent option for a budget watch for business people. Features include a stainless steel case with a black dial and leather strap, a date indicator and a Splash Resistant water resistance system.
A country- Japan
Price - 175$
The Fossil Group company specializes in the production of watches, jewelry and some other accessories for men and women. The brand was founded in 1984. The Fossil brand produces very fashionable men's watches at affordable prices. In addition, the range includes higher quality and expensive models Fossil Swiss, made in Switzerland. For budget Fossil men's watches, pay attention to the Townsman 44mm Chronograph Gray Leather Watch.
A country- USA
Price - 155$
Official site -
A young American company, founded just over 10 years ago (2006), offers inexpensive men's watches with beautiful modern design and excellent quality. The price range varies from $195-$595. Each customer is provided with a comprehensive two-year warranty. One of the most interesting and cheapest models is Mercury Men's Pilot Style Matte Dial Leather Strap with a matte dial and a brown genuine leather strap.
A country- USA
Price - 225$
SEIKO
The popular Japanese brand Seiko closes the ranking of inexpensive men's watches. The company was founded in 1881 and since then has given the world an incredible number of innovative discoveries in the field of watchmaking. Men have a fairly extensive selection of multi-functional models available for under $250. For example, in Russian stores you can purchase an original Seiko 5 Three hands Day watch for only 12,900 rubles.
A country- Japan
Price - 225$
When choosing a men's watch, pay attention to the quality of the material, consider the general style of clothing and the purpose of the purchase. For example, some accessories are designed for sports, while others are more suitable for wearing to the office. Avoid fakes or copies of prestigious brands. Today, for almost every taste, you can find inexpensive, budget, and most importantly, original men's watches from the manufacturer.
Computers and cars. Therefore, it is difficult to find a person who does not know what time it is. So why do you need another watch? The answer is very simple - STYLISH.
You need this accessory not so much to tell the time, but to create a professional look. And nothing emphasizes style more than a good watch. So take a look at our list of the 10 best men's watches under $500.
With a pure white dial accented with silver and Roman numerals, this Paul Hewitt watch is simply stunning. Hidden behind the sapphire crystal is a Swiss Ronda quartz movement made of polished stainless steel. Use the blue/green NATO strap for daily wear, or upgrade to the brighter Power Player. Either way, this watch will look unique and will definitely make you stand out from the crowd.
Verdict: dazzling.Timex Unisex "Weekender"
Timex knows how to make a quality product at a relatively low price. Weekender uses both standard and military time zones, so you don't need Reveille to know what time it is. The blue backlight allows you to use them at dusk, and the Band camouflage allows you to blend in with the terrain behind enemy lines.
Seiko "Solar Dive"
With a water resistance of up to 180 meters, you can safely take this watch with you to the beach or underwater trip. The underwater bezel and sub-dial give you all the information you need, and the Japanese quartz movement is solar powered so the battery never runs out. The watch also has built-in light tubes that cut through the underwater darkness.
Braun
Known more as a company that makes razors than stylish accessories, Braun has created some pretty good watches. With a meager 38mm diameter, they have good performance. Using a second chronometer for jewel-like precision, you will notice that this watch will make it very easy for you to keep up with your busy life thanks to its scratch-resistant mineral crystal, which offers 50 m of water resistance.
Citizen "Eco-Drive"
The watch is simply wonderful. With a push-button clasp, dual chronograph, mineral crystal dial, water resistance to 90 meters, and a Japanese quartz movement, there's nothing to dislike about this device. And if you also take into account the metal bracelet and the relatively low price, then this watch will become an excellent accessory for the beach and everyday wear.
Featuring a 40mm stainless steel case, a vibrant blue dial and a brown leather strap, this contrasting chronograph will turn heads. The double dial will show the time with maximum accuracy. In general, such watches can become the subject of general discussion and admiration.
At first glance, this watch looks a lot like your grandfather's watch, but if you look at the stylistic variations from Tissot, you'll see how everything old can be new again. Ultra-modern options and three recessed chronographs, a Guilloche dial, pointed hands and hour markers add style to this old-school timepiece.
Are you a complete purist who wants to clutter your life as little as possible with unnecessary things? If yes, then your watch should be minimalist. With a diameter of only 37mm and a sapphire crystal, it is a small and completely unpretentious accessory. Oddly enough, this unassuming appearance makes them much more noticeable.
With 6 separate hands on a range of chronographs, you can tell the exact time down to the fraction of a second. The Japanese quartz movement keeps everything in sync, and the stainless steel case keeps the insides protected from the elements.
It's more than just a pretty watch face. It is also water resistant, allowing the watch to withstand depths of up to 90 meters. Swimmers, scuba divers and surfers will be happy with such watches, because they can be used even underwater. Just don't overuse it, as prolonged exposure to pressure can damage them.
