The watch you wear says a lot about who you are. What is the story you want your timepiece to tell about you? Buying your first luxury watch can be a bit daunting. However, it is essential to do your proverbial research to ensure you are getting the watch you want, at the price point that works for you, and with the aesthetic you want to portray. Having a working understanding of the elements you are looking for in a luxury timepiece will help to make the buying experience stress-free and will leave you feeling confident in the purchase you have made.
What am I looking for in a high-end timepiece?
- Band style
- Weight
- Movement
- Quality and Authenticity
Bands are as wide-ranging as the people who wear them. From leather to nylon or metal, the type of strap you choose depends largely on your lifestyle and the aesthetic you are going for. Leather is beloved, however, depending on where you live and how active you are, sweat and moisture can break down the leather over time. For those who are active, Nylon straps give the durability that is needed to stand up throughout your adventures, but this can come at a cost to overall opulence. A metal band can be a great option for those who want to wow in the boardroom and have their timepiece easily transition from day to night. The great thing about bands is their versatility — depending on which timepiece you opt for; bands can quite easily be changed to suit the occasion.
The true sign of a high-end watch is the weight. However, just looking to buy the heaviest timepiece you can is also not a good strategy. While a bit of heft does indicate quality craftsmanship, owning a heavy watch for daily wear will likely get cumbersome. Balancing sleek design with quality materials and craftsmanship will help you target the timepiece that is right for you- especially if it is an investment you intend to wear daily.
Movement refers to the way in which the hands on the timepiece operate. Mechanical watches are the “old school” cog and gear watches that require daily winding. Some users like this nostalgic ritual, while others perceive the added chore to the day as a pain. Quartz movement relies on batteries, is typically quite accurate and is a more cost-effective option. Many luxury timepieces use automatic movement, which means they do not require batteries, or to be wound daily as they wind themselves through movement.
Perhaps the most notable characteristic when purchasing an exclusive timepiece is the quality of the materials used and verifying it is an authentic piece. Looking for indicators such as the seal of Geneva to confirm where it was made as well as authentication papers, serial numbers and branded parts will help you feel confident in your investment. Most importantly, purchasing from reputable and accredited dealers will let you know you are dealing with people you can trust.
Are you just starting your journey into the horological world? Our team with their wealth of knowledge and experience will help you through the process guaranteeing you get the timepiece that is perfectly suited for your lifestyle and personality. Jewels in Time CEO Peter Dosic invites you to “explore our gallery of unique distinction to find exactly what you’re looking for. If you are looking to buy, trade, sell or upgrade we are confident we have exactly what you’re looking for.” Visit our Facebook page or give us a call at 561.368.1454 to find the perfect timepiece for you.