There is a wide variety of watches you can choose from in a jewelry store. However, nowadays, a watch is not just about keeping time. After all, you can just use your smartphone for that.
Purchasing a quality timepiece is a bit like acquiring a diamond ring; your style and budget are essential parts of the equation.
In this article, we look mainly at personal style, but also some important functional considerations when choosing a timepiece.
One Special Timepiece or Many Watches?
Before going shopping at jewelry stores, you need to determine whether you want to have one watch for special events or several unique pieces for different seasons. If it is one quality timepiece, it should ideally be suitable for both casual and formal outfits. A neutral style is best when choosing this type of watch. But it is always a good idea to have at least two watches. One that can be multipurpose and another to wear on a special occasion.
- An everyday watch: You should choose this type of watch more for its functionality than style. It should be long-lasting and capable of resisting the elements. Steel watches are becoming a popular fashion item for people looking for durable and affordable luxury.
- A masculine look: You can go for hefty faces with roman numerals if you want a masculine look. However, a large metallic face can be cumbersome and uncomfortable to wear all the time. This type of watch is most suited for more informal outfits. Also, avoid charms and pendants on the band, especially if they are chunky. They can make your timepiece look cheap.
- A sophisticated style: For business or black-tie events, a medium-sized faced watch would be ideal. For this style, choose a timepiece with minimal and simple detailing.
The Straps
Leather bands are suited for more formal occasions. They are even a better option than sleek metallic straps, especially if you are looking for something that you can wear with both a smart casual outfit and a suit. The downside is that the color of the leather may make it harder to match with other accessories. Luckily, some watches have interchangeable leather straps that can be changed to match the color of your other accessories.
On the other hand, metal straps, particularly the ones with a silver-tone band, can work with many types of outfits. Jewelers have used silver in their creations for over 6,000 years, making it a classic metal in fashion. Watches with a silver strap are also easier to match with other accessories such as shoes and belts. All in all, metallic custom jewelry is bold and practical, while leather is suitable for a sophisticated and put-together look.
The Dial
The dial is the most visible part of the timepiece. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the dial when picking a piece that works for your style from a jewelry store. One factor to consider when examining the dial is its contrast. It is what determines how conspicuous the numbers on the dial will be.
For a sophisticated style, a watch with minimal contrast would be ideal. The more conspicuous the markings, the more informal the watch will be. For example, a light-blue on a dark-blue face will be suitable for formal events, work, and business. The general rule is that the simpler the design of the dial, the more sophisticated the timepiece.
The Movement
The movement of a watch describes the mechanism that makes the piece tick. There are three main types of movements; quartz, manual, and automatic. The advantage of quartz is that it is accurate and you can always find one that is within your budget at your local jewelry store.
A manual movement is generally the first choice for consumers. The sweeping motion of the second hand is considered sleek and sophisticated by most jewelers. Automatic watches are similar to manual ones, except that you don’t have to keep winding it. The downside of the automatic movement is that it can be heavy because of the additional winding mechanism.
When choosing a watch from a jewelry store, your style is an important factor that will determine your choice. You need a timepiece that is durable and functional. Even though there are many types of watches available, always try and find something that brings out your unique style.