Things To Consider Before Buying A Wristwatch

Finding the perfect watch that suits your style is like finding the perfect clothes. Yet a one-size-fits-all solution does not exist. So, you must take your time in choosing a watch that meets your lifestyle and personality, or you may have to return it or need to purchase a new one too frequently.

Suppose you plan to buy a Bulova watch, then check online for Bulova watch quality review to shortlist your favourite styles and make an informed purchase. There are several brands of watches in the market, and hence it is essential to read the reviews before selecting one. This article will take you through various aspects that you should consider while finding your dream watch.

 Features Of A Wristwatch

Material of the watch

Watches are primarily of stainless steel. Moreover, there are titanium and ceramic ones, which are robust and better. Compared to ‘normal’ steel, stainless steel cannot be affected by moisture or sweat. Additionally, skin irritation is very rare with stainless steel watches.

Also, if you plan to purchase a watch made of yellow, rose, or white gold, a PVD coating will ensure it retains its colour. With frequent use, an uncoated watch may discolor within a year. Typically, materials used to make the watch are labeled on the back. The weight of the watch may also be a sign of quality. It indicates how solid the steel used is.

Movement

The movement (also called the “caliber”) is the watch’s engine and controls all its functions. This internal mechanism controls the movement of the hands and the functions of the annual calendar, chronograph, or dual time zone. It ensures accurate timekeeping throughout the watch.

There are two types of movements in watches-

1. Quartz: Watches commonly use this mechanism due to its high accuracy and durability. Compared with mechanical watches, quartz watches are more affordable and convenient. They can be distinguished by the secondhand’s ‘jump’ when going from one second to the next.
2. Mechanical: These watches are run by mechanical parts. You can wind them manually (self-winding) or automatically (the rotor spins as the wrist moves). In contrast to quartz watches, the second hand of the analog watch moves smoothly and sweepingly. The downside of mechanical watches is their high price and low accuracy.

Water resistance

Water causes the most damage to watches. It is therefore essential for an excellent timepiece to be waterproof. Water resistance has varying degrees. Water resistance of 10 ATM means the watch can withstand pressure up to 100 meters depth (or 10 bar). That makes it an excellent swimming watch. The water resistance degrees for showering (5 ATM) and washing your hands (3 ATM) are also available. Watches need at least 3 ATMs of water resistance to offer any comfort level. The water resistance is usually indicated on the back of the watch.

Straps

A high-quality strap will extend the life of the watch. It is easy to tell about the quality of the straps from the weight. The two most commonly used watch strap materials are leather and stainless steel mesh. 

The straps of cheap watches are typically made of hollow stainless steel, while luxury watches are solid stainless steel. The straps of more high-end expensive luxury watches consist of precious metals such as gold and platinum.

The best strap material should combine durability, comfort, flexibility, high strength, sweat, and water resistance.

Conclusion

Once you understand the basics of watches, choosing the right one for any occasion becomes easier. Don’t forget to check out customer feedback for different brands, such as the Bulova watch quality review, to get an idea of the watch’s durability and customer response. This way, you won’t be spending your money on low-quality watches, and there is no question of returning them.