How to choose a men's watch: how to select the watch that suits you?

　　men's watchesHow to choose? There are as many opinions as there are readers, so choosing a men's watch involves different needs and criteria for every individual. In particular, picking a good watch not only reflects personal personality and aesthetic views, but also highlights one's taste. Today we are going to discuss how to select a favourite timepiece, which can be approached from the following aspects.

　　1. Functions

Longines Conquest series men's mechanical watch L3.642.4.56.6, 41mm, stainless steel case, 100 m water resistance, suitable for swimming and diving

　　A watch, besides telling the time, can match different occasions, and more importantly, suit one's interests. For instance, a chronograph can be used for speed measurement or timing; however, as far as I understand, most people who buy chronographs are simply drawn to their bold and rugged design.

　　2. Strap

　　Originally, the strap should fall under the category of design, but after handling many watches, I personally feel this is a distinct issue. First is the material of the strap; in theory, matching the case is best. However, yellow gold or rose gold can appear overly opulent rather than refined. If opting for relatively understated colours like steel, white gold or platinum, it is a different matter, though you should still test your wrist's comfort.

　　3. Design

　　As the saying goes, "look at its movement to understand its heart"; a watch's movement practically dictates its exterior design. Whether sports, simple or complicated models, nowadays there are no strict "dress watches" as long as the dimensions and styling are not overly eccentric, allowing them to be paired with anything. Trust your first impression, try it on, ensure it feels comfortable and looks pleasing, and simply go with what you like.

　　4. Materials

Audemars Piguet 2016 new model Royal Oak Offshore collection limited edition chronograph, black PVD-coated stainless steel, drop-resistant and wear-resistant

　　Traditional metallic materials, such as steel, gold, silver, platinum as well as titanium, aluminium alloys and tungsten carbide, remain mainstream today. Occasionally, avant-garde materials like carbon and tantalum are developed and utilised by pioneering watchmakers, making them favourites among trendsetters. Additionally, there are PVD (physical vapour deposition) blackened steel cases, or plastic watches like those popular a few years ago, though the novelty has worn off and their flaws are fully apparent. Looking at the auction market, often considered the barometer of the watch industry, timepieces crafted from traditional materials continue to dominate.

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