How to Choose and Buy World-Famous Watches (Swiss Watches)

Precise gear meshing, intricate watch movements, superb watchmaking craftsmanship, and a long historical heritage. Owning such a high-end timepiece is the ultimate dream for every watch enthusiast. What qualifies as a high-end timepiece? How do you choose a high-end watch that you are satisfied with?

　　Only the classic can be eternal

Many people mistakenly believe that the more expensive a watch is, the more 'high-end' it is. Price is merely a reflection of a watch's value, not its 'high-end' status. To define whether a watch brand is high-end, one must look at its brand history, innovation and research capabilities, and its exploration of horological artistry, as well as its contribution to the history of the watch industry. Although Switzerland has the reputation of being the 'country of watchmaking', it does not mean that high-end watches are only found at the SIHH in Geneva; among the 2000 exhibitors at Baselworld, there are about 30 brands that offer high-end timepieces.

As far as high-end watches are concerned, their design should always adhere to the classic. Only the classic can be eternal. Of course, on this foundation, some fashion elements can be added; tradition and fashion are not opposites in the world of high-end horology.

　　Understand watches before buying them

With China's economic reform and opening up, the Chinese watch market has developed rapidly and has become one of the key regions that many global watch brands are focusing on for the future. Currently, in terms of both the number of international watch brands and consumer attitudes toward watches, the Chinese market still has some distance to go compared to some other Asian countries.

Regarding watch consumption, consumers in Japan and Singapore mostly understand watches based on their love for them, and only purchase high-end watches once they truly understand them. Chinese consumers may not yet be at this stage. For most people, their awareness of watch brands is not yet high, and their understanding of the cultural connotations of horology is insufficient. Choosing a watch is like choosing a partner; it requires not only your love for the watch and your purchasing power, but also your precious wisdom.

　　Purchasing Advice

Consumers should not choose a watch based solely on the impression left by advertisements. While celebrity endorsements are a good way to learn about a brand's culture, as a more rational and mature watch consumer, you must consider two very important questions when choosing a watch: First, do you understand the history of the brand? Second, do you understand the craftsmanship of the watch? We can now obtain accurate and rich information through many channels, such as the internet. However, I do not recommend buying watches online, because the process of visiting a store to try them on in person is very important. Only by carefully observing, touching, and feeling the watch in person can you choose a timepiece that truly fits your personality and satisfies your aesthetic.