Styles and Types of Men Watches – All You Need to Know

The widespread use of smartphones is probably why many people believe that wristwatches are no longer necessary or popular, and will soon stop being used completely. However, this is far from the truth since 1.2 billion watches are still being sold annually, attesting to their popularity and persistence.

Today, they are mostly worn to showcase one’s style or add a finishing touch to a person’s outfit, and there is probably no other accessory that combines fashion and functionality better than a wristwatch does. If you are not a watch wearer but are looking to become one, you might be unsure what kind is suitable for you. Here you will find all you need to know about the different types of watches you can choose from.

Since the market is large and offers a wide variety of brands and styles, always consider your tastes and what you are looking for in a watch when picking one.

1. Dress Watch

These timepieces are all about simplicity, sophistication, and classiness. They are not meant to stand out but to draw attention subtly. Typically thin, always with a leather band, their cases may come in rectangular, circular or square shapes. They are suitable for formal or business occasions, perfectly complementing tuxedos and suits. You can visit TheWatchCompany.com to learn more about them.

When choosing a dress watch, there are a few things that need to be considered. 

The first thing to do is to get the right wrist measurement. This is important in determining the right type of dress watch, so you know for sure you’ve got a perfect size.  With dress watches, the fit should always be the best and the most accurate because you can’t afford to look sloppy. Because you’re most likely wearing this watch to fancier and dressier events, it also has to look perfectly tailored for you.

The second thing that you need to check is about the materials that are used in manufacturing the watch. Choose one that has a metallic or leather finish, so it looks more formal. If you’re choosing watches with stones and other crystals, these should also match what you already have in your collection, so it’s easier for you to mix-and-match. Gold is always a favorite. Platinum is another material that can be very elegant and can also last for a long time.

The rule of thumb to follow when choosing a dress watch is that it has to balance both form and function.

2. Field Watch

They were designed for soldiers in combat, so they are rugged and functional, but today, they are also considered stylish, as stated by WatchShopping.com. Since large watches would cause inconvenience on the battlefield, their size was usually small to medium and the same applies today. These units are typically made of stainless steel or titanium with a leather or canvas strap. The face displays easy-to-read numerals, and the watch’s hands often illuminate, so that you will be able to check the time at night or in dark surroundings. They can be worn on numerous occasions, whether during outdoor activities, casual business events, or while completing everyday tasks.

Field watches are designed to be worn at any given time. One of most common designs for this type of watch allows you to tell the time of the day, along with the date. Field watches are supposed to put a premium on function—with one look, you can immediately tell not just the time but also the date.

When choosing different field watches, something else that you’ll want to take a look at the materials used to make the watch. Most field watches are made of ceramic or gold. If your purpose for buying a field watch, however, is mainly for outdoor use, then gold is not your best option. It’s better for you to go for titanium instead. This kind of material makes for watches that are durable enough to be used outside. Those with a canvas strap are also great for outdoor use, as they’re easier to clean and can withstand the wear-and-tear. You can check iknowwatches.com to learn more about canvas and NATO straps.

3. Dive Watch

As its name suggests, the signature feature of this timepiece is that it is water-resistant. Since they are worn underwater most of them are made from stainless steel, but can also be made from rubber or silicone. They’re medium-sized, with bold easy-to-read numbering, and have a special feature that counts how much time a person has spent underwater. Their bands are usually longer since they were originally designed to fit around bulky diving equipment.

4. Aviator Watch

Unlike other styles, this one doesn’t have a distinctive one. Still, there are some features that these types of watches have in common. Since they were made for pilots, they are designed for easy reading and typically have a black with white numbering dial. They come in medium to large sizes and their strap is usually made from leather. Many aviator watches have a chronograph – a feature that acts as a stopwatch. They might not be suitable for formal attire but are perfect for more casual wear.

5. Racing Watch

The two defining features of this watch are a chronograph (stopwatch) and tachymeter which measures speed or distance. Usually medium to large, they often come in bright, contrasting colors and are made from stainless steel. Since they tend to be more flashy and bold in appearance, they are suited for more casual get-ups.

Final Word

Probably the most important thing to do is to try out any watch before purchasing it, to make sure it fits and looks good around your wrist. If you are still struggling with making a choice, you can try setting a price limit to help narrow your options, but if everything else fails, simply go for one that makes you feel great and is comfortable to wear. To learn more about men’s watches and other accessories click here.