What To Consider When Buying Your First Watch?
Like many enthusiasts who got into the hobby thanks to the people around them, I grew up seeing watches on the wrists of my elders. Naturally, owning a watch seemed to be a symbol of growing up as I progressed through my schooling years. So, when it was time for me to choose my first automatic watch 7 years ago, I thought to myself “I’m finally turning into an adult now”. With that said though, the excitement didn’t necessarily lead me towards a specific direction as I basically knew nothing about watches. Thankfully, my watch enthusiast dad came to the rescue, and I ended up with a gorgeous Orient Sun & Moon.
Looking back at that significant moment has inspired me to think a little deeper about what I could’ve taken into consideration to bring more structure into my decision-making process. Therefore, without further ado, here are a few things that I wish I considered when choosing my first wristwatch and ones that you can too.
Firstly, the purpose of the watch. Whether it be a daily beater or one that you’d take out on special occasions, knowing its purpose might benefit you by streamlining your options. Besides, it might also speed up the search process! As a follow-up to the purpose of your piece, consider its movement in terms of liveability. Be honest with yourself! If you’re not a person who enjoys the process of winding a watch every day, get an automatic or quartz movement instead! Because at the end of the day, a watch should be worn and enjoyed, not the opposite. If the process of making your watch tick turns you off, it kind of defeats the purpose. Next up, you might wanna look into watches that are closely related to the history of a niche that interests you. For example, if you’re a Formula One enthusiast looking to get into watches, finding watches closely related to that may lead you to finding something you love and at the same time, have a connection with. Lastly, if you're someone who likes switching things up often, considering the versatility of a watch might be a good idea. Particularly, in terms if its ability to look good with different straps and outfits.
Well, even with that all said, nothing matters more than the way you feel about a piece. When in doubt, just go for what you love and what speaks to you the most. You should ultimately wear something that pleases you, not others.
