Watch Buying Guide Series - Choosing Function and Price

How do you buy a watch? This is a question that even seasoned enthusiasts sometimes find confusing. As one's financial situation, aesthetic sense, brand perception, consumption level, and taste evolve, every enthusiast may, to some extent, doubt their choices. Based on these considerations, we have summarised the experiences and lessons of many fellow enthusiasts to provide basic selection methods for purchasing a new watch. We offer only a brief introduction here, though we do so with some trepidation, as there is a risk of being misleading. If this aligns with the reader's thinking and provides confirmation, that is ideal; if it contradicts your views, we sincerely welcome your corrections.

    Choosing Price5C;X
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    Every choice is inseparable from your financial foundation. Without the funds, all choices become meaningless fantasies. So, what price range is suitable for you?

    Step one. Principle: I have always emphasised that one should buy a watch according to one's means. A long time ago, I read an article by the famous watch critic Mr Zhu Lei on how to buy a watch, which mentioned a principle—using two months' salary as a benchmark for purchasing a watch. I believe this principle is very practical for the working class; it neither affects daily life nor is it inconsistent with the wearer's status. Of course, this principle does not apply to everyone; for watch enthusiasts who fanatically pursue perfection, two months' salary? It is far from enough!

    Step two. Positioning: Even watch enthusiasts usually consider the issue of value for money. The higher the price of a watch, the lower the value for money, because since they are all things for telling time, why are some sold so expensively? What is referred to here is relative value for money, based on comprehensive considerations, choosing the most suitable brand and model within a certain price range. Perhaps watch enthusiasts are looking forward to seeing which brands and models the author recommends within certain price ranges, but unfortunately, the author is worried about being biased towards the brands and models I personally like; it is better not to write about such subjective things.

    A good watch is absolutely worth the price. Do not expect to buy cheap goods; the craftsmanship, quality, grade, and value of a timepiece are ultimately reflected in its price. Based on your financial ability, choose a suitable brand and model. For models you cannot afford, it is recommended to simply admire them.X

    Choosing Functionr2@"E [b+b
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    Unlike style, function here refers to the classification based on the complexity of the movement, generally divided into two categories: simple models and complicated models. Simple models only display the time or, at most, include a date or day display, while complicated models are numerous and varied, and often have little practical significance for daily use. Generally, for beginners, the choice of function will not be a major issue. Here, we provide a simple note on two common questions.

    Step one. Manual or automatic?

    Sometimes, novice watch buyers are confused by the choice between manual and automatic mechanical watches. In my opinion, if the goal is purely practicality, an automatic watch is more appropriate. Manual watches are better suited to enthusiasts, as they are more willing to spend time enjoying the process of winding; for an enthusiast, that moment is a treasure.

    Two. Quartz or mechanical?Qq ? K)?(WL

    If you are buying a watch purely for the purpose of precision and practicality, a quartz watch is the best choice. For a die-hard enthusiast, however, a mechanical watch is the only option in every respect; after all, the charm of mechanical watches has captivated generation after generation, so I will not dwell on this at length here.