Mobile devices are taking up more and more place in the lives of modern people. It is much easier to find out all the information you need just by looking at the smartphone screen. But for men, wristwatches were, are and will be not just a mechanism for measuring time.
It is easy to read the status of the owner and identify some character traits by the look of stylish jewelry. In addition, well-known manufacturers invest in their models a very wide functionality that allows not only tracking time. Wristwatches become an indispensable accessory for a self-respecting man.
How to choose the right accessory?
Having decided to buy a wristwatch for men, any person will face the problem of a huge and varied assortment on the market. What are the criteria for choosing a quality mechanism that can work for many years? Can you rely on a well-known brand name or choose by price?
There are several characteristics, having studied which you can make a choice in favor of a particular model:
- mechanism or drive;
- type of glass;
- the material from which the product is made;
- type of strap;
- additional functionality;
- brand;
- price category.
Mechanical or electronic
The "heart" of the movement is the most important part that you should pay attention to when buying. The energy source required for accurate and long-term operation can vary. Let's consider each of the options.
Mechanical watches
Time-tested classic look. Chronometers were among the first to appear, but they still have not lost their popularity. The mechanism is driven by a coil spring that requires regular winding. Modern manufacturers have come up with an automatic plant that does not require constant human intervention.
Premium accessories with sophisticated designs are collectibles. The advantage of this type of mechanism is the absence of a source of extraneous energy. Elite pieces are assembled by hand and demonstrate the status of the owner.The disadvantage is the high price, movement errors, and the vulnerability of parts of the mechanism to external conditions.
Quartz movement
The work is performed by an electric motor that receives energy from a quartz crystal. The energy is supplied by a small battery that lasts for 1-2 years. Models with a classic dial and hands do not require winding and provide accurate movement with a minimum error of 15-20 seconds per month.
The strength and durability of the quartz movement is considered to be the advantage, even under severe operating conditions. Minimal maintenance and budgetary price makes these things very practical and more affordable than mechanical ones.
Electronic
They are a set of microcircuits powered by batteries. The external board has no arrows. Modern smart models have a wide range of functionality - time, pulse, heart rate, pedometer, message display and much more.
Such accessories do not have an extensive history, but are very popular due to their many functions, special durability and ability to withstand extreme conditions. Technological models are inexpensive, which makes them very attractive for athletes, people leading a healthy lifestyle and fans of modern gadgets.
Cover glass
The dial is covered with glass, which protects from damage and also provides an attractive look during long-term daily wear. The best manufacturers make different types of coatings, the most common are:
- mineral - inexpensive, it is not difficult to replace it, it is resistant to small scratches, but it is easy to break it;
- plexiglass - small damage quickly appears on it, but it breaks with difficulty, poorly protects the inside from water and pollution;
- sapphire - coatings made of expensive material are used only in elite models, it is scratch-resistant, but can quickly collapse from a strong impact;
- suplex - durable modern material, consisting of two layers, reliably protects the dial from scratches.
Housing
The material from which the watch is made also plays an important role in durability and maintaining an attractive appearance during prolonged wear. Sometimes the health of the owner depends on the quality of the case. Cheap plastics with added heavy metals can cause allergic reactions.
However, electronic gadgets made of high quality plastic are popular. This material is notable for the strength and lightness of metal, it does not rust, moreover, it is cheaper than the case made of alloys.
The most commonly used metal materials are:
- gold or silver - beautiful and expensive metals, but impractical to wear, suitable for rare exits, too heavy and fragile, scratches quickly appear on the case;
- brass - a cheap alloy resembling gold, resistant to corrosion, requires additional coating, as it oxidizes when worn and leaves marks on the skin;
- aluminum is cheap, lightweight, soft, does not rust, does not have high wear resistance, but, due to its plasticity, various shapes are made from it;
- titanium - a material that is very durable and lightweight, does not conduct heat well, so in winter the case will not freeze to the wrist, the material is used in the manufacture of popular premium models;
- stainless alloy - suitable for daily wear, the budget material is highly wear-resistant, scratches that appear can be polished, which allows you to maintain a shiny case surface for a long time;
- palladium is a light and affordable material that quickly restores its original appearance after polishing.
Bracelet or strap. What's more convenient?
When choosing a strap or bracelet, you should rely only on your own opinion. The practical strap made of leather or leatherette is convenient because it can be adjusted exactly to the size of the wrist. The soft material does not chafe the skin, but it will require replacement approximately every 3-4 years.A strap made of synthetic material will start to tear earlier.
The metal bracelet is more wear-resistant, polish regularly to restore an even coating. However, links in inexpensive bracelets often break, resulting in replacement of the entire structure. Be careful when buying and try to choose models from trusted manufacturers.
Additional features
Modern models are not only able to measure the passage of time. Many additional functions make a wristwatch an irreplaceable and useful accessory.
There are waterproof models equipped with additional sealed layers at the joints of parts. If the case has the abbreviation WR (Water resistant), you can leave them on while swimming and not be afraid to get caught in the rain.
For athletes or people of active professions, a watch with a shock-resistant function will become an indispensable accessory. The shatterproof glass and durable case make the watch a reliable companion in extreme and difficult conditions.
Some dials are equipped with additional indicators - a calendar with the number and day of the week, a second time indicator for travelers across time zones, tachometers, emergency indicators, stopwatches and many more useful functions. There are especially many different tools in electronic gadgets.
After studying all the technical characteristics, the most important and difficult stage begins - the selection of a model for a specific person. A wrist watch suitable for a man for his lifestyle and performing all the necessary functions will become a memorable gift for many years.
For everyday wear, it is best to get a simple yet elegant piece that matches any outfit. Take a closer look at the person's hands and wrists. If his palms are large, then it is better to buy a watch with a wide strap and a square or rectangular dial. On a narrow wrist, a model with a round or oval case and a thin strap will look better.
For a young man, accessories of an unusual shape or a combination of classics with new elements and bright designs are perfect. Renowned manufacturers release limited editions in unexpected formats suitable for creative people.
It is difficult to answer the question of which model is better from which company, and it is impossible to purchase a watch for all occasions. Classic models emphasize the image of the owner and fit perfectly into the business style of clothing. Functional chronometers with enhanced protection are useful for working in difficult conditions. Modern electronic gadgets will become indispensable for the younger generation.
There are quality accessories in all price ranges. Explore the important characteristics a good watch should have. Try to hold, feel the weight, feel the shape, and visually appreciate the real model.
Do not make mistakes when choosing and do not fall for the tricks of scammers. Remember, premium wristwatches will not be cheap. Our detailed review of the best wristwatches in different price categories will tell you about the advantages and disadvantages of the models and help you make the right choice.
Rating of inexpensive watches (up to 10,000 rubles)
CASIO MTP-1200A-1A
Classic jewelery with quartz movement and analog hands. The case is made of stainless steel and should be polished if scratched. The dial is made in black and has no distracting details. Closed with durable sapphire crystal that can withstand heavy impacts.
The mechanism is powered by one battery. The case is waterproof, withstands showers and bathing without diving. The sturdy wide bracelet is also made of stainless material. The manufacturer gives a 2 year warranty. The average price is 3310 rubles. According to buyers, this accessory represents an excellent combination of price and quality.
CASIO MTP-1200A-1A
Advantages:
- low price;
- score of 5.0 points in the rating of buyers;
- sapphire crystal;
- waterproofness.
Disadvantages:
CASIO DW-5600E-1V
The quartz watch is battery operated.The electronic board displays not only the time, but also the date and day of the week, there is a stopwatch and a reverse timer, it is possible to set an alarm.
The lightweight plastic body in black does not weigh down your hand. The electronic display is covered with a resistant mineral glass. The watch can be used on a hike as it is shockproof, waterproof and has a backlight function, which is important in the absence of light sources. The cost is 4160 rubles.
CASIO DW-5600E-1V
Advantages:
- additional functions;
- waterproof;
- shockproof;
- lightweight and durable body.
Disadvantages:
- inconvenient location of buttons;
- small battery power.
Rating of high-quality wristwatches in the middle price category (up to 50,000 rubles)
Orient ETAC006В
The signature spring movement Orient Automatic Movement has a power reserve of 40 hours, is wound manually, or when the movement is carried out auto-winding. The case is made of stainless steel, the classic black dial is covered with mineral glass.
The silver hour, minute and second hands indicate Arabic numerals. On the field of the main dial there is an indicator of numbers and days of the week. The sealed silver case is shock and water resistant, complemented by a black leather strap with an original buckle. The cost is 7380 rubles, which is the best price in the category up to 20,000 rubles.
Orient ETAC006В
Advantages:
- additional indicators;
- unusual design;
- impact resistance;
- waterproof class WR50.
Disadvantages:
- regular strap change;
- there is no possibility to adjust the length of the bracelet.
TISSOT T52.5.411.31
The accessory has a high consumer rating in the price category up to 30,000 rubles. The round, laconic model is made of durable gold-colored steel alloy. The dial with analog hands has an indicator showing the day of the month. The waterproof case is covered with a durable, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.
According to the manufacturer's description, the quartz movement runs on a battery with a lifespan of 68 months. The model is held on the arm by a narrow leather strap in dark brown color. The cost is 22,400 rubles.
TISSOT T52.5.411.31
Advantages:
- sapphire crystal;
- long-lasting battery;
- accuracy.
Disadvantages:
Rating of premium wristwatches (from 100,000 rubles)
TAG Heuer CV2010.BA0794
Classics and mechanics come together in an elegant piece, crafted from a durable silver alloy. It can be bought as a gift for both an athlete and a business person. The round analog dial has hands, an additional indicator of the numbers of the month, a stopwatch scale, and months of the year. A tough, scratch- and shock-resistant sapphire crystal protects the movement.
The energy source is a self-winding coil spring. The case is sealed and equipped with a high level of water resistance. The watch can withstand diving without scuba gear. The cost is 274,000 rubles.
TAG Heuer CV2010.BA0794
Advantages:
- water resistance WR100;
- stopwatch;
- indicator of numbers.
Disadvantages:
MAURICE LACROIX MP6348-SS001-12E
The sleek, functional accessory is made of stainless steel and is held on a durable black leather strap. The self-winding mechanical drive is spring-activated.
The original, modernist silver dial is protected by a sapphire crystal. It contains an indicator of the days of the month and days of the week. There are also additional scales for a stopwatch, chronograph and tachymeter that calculates the speed of the distance. Due to its high water resistance, the accessory can withstand diving without scuba gear. The cost is 216,090 rubles.
MAURICE LACROIX MP6348-SS001-12E
Advantages:
- stopwatch;
- tachymeter;
- chronograph;
- water resistance WR100;
Disadvantages:
- the leather strap requires periodic replacement;
- high price.
Rating of popular sports watches
SKMEI 1119 (black)
The case of a multifunctional watch from China is made of steel and plastic. The quartz movement is battery operated.A small color LCD displays information in digital format.
The silicone strap holds the item firmly on your hand. It can be easily replaced if necessary. The case is water resistant WR30, which protects the movement from splashing water and rain. The cost of the model is 1190 rubles. It is possible to order for Ali Express.
SKMEI 1119 (black)
Advantages:
- high level of customer appreciation;
- lungs;
- budget price;
- universal thing.
Disadvantages:
- low level of water resistance.
CASIO GA-100-1A2
The reliable quartz movement does not require winding, it operates on a battery with a service life of up to 24 months. The lightweight plastic body is covered with mineral glass. Double dial - analog with digital, displays information in 12/24 format.
The case with the WR200 water resistance class allows you to dive to depths with scuba diving. Convenient and durable model has advanced functionality: alarm clock in 5 positions, hourly signal, anti-magnet, LED backlight, stopwatch, perpetual calendar. The manufacturer gives a 2 year warranty. According to customer reviews, the sports accessory has a very durable case. The cost is 5850 rubles.
CASIO GA-100-1A2
Advantages:
- multifunctionality;
- lightweight body;
- water resistance WR200;
Disadvantages:
Wristwatch care
After purchase, accessories with additional functions require customization. Be sure to check the attached instructions or the manufacturer's website. The watch also comes with a warranty card, and for auto-wound accessories, maintenance periods are required.
In the process of wearing, dirt accumulates on the case, scratches appear on glass and metal. It doesn't matter how much this or that model costs. To improve the appearance of expensive and budget accessories, they should be systematically cleaned.
- Use a toothpick to remove accumulated dirt from grooves and joints.
- Polish the housing with a soft, lint-free cloth. If the model is waterproof, you can gently rinse with water and dry with a towel.
- Store the accessory in the case. This will protect the glass from scratches.
- Cracked glass should be replaced as soon as possible. Otherwise, moisture and dust will enter the mechanism and cause damage.
- Metal bracelets are gently washed in soapy water with a toothbrush, then wiped with a dry cloth.
- A leather strap will retain its flawless appearance longer if it is not in contact with water. If it gets wet, do not dry it with a hairdryer or on a battery. Wipe with a dry cloth and leave to dry completely.
- What to look for when buying self-winding accessories - they need regular calibration. Try not to miss the next check with the watchmaker.
A wrist watch is a fragile and complex mechanism. Simple work on replacing the link of the bracelet can be done independently. But trust professionals to intervene in a thin device.