Men's wristwatches: what are they and which ones are better to choose?

Wrist watch - an integral part of the male image. The accessory has long ceased to be considered just an object that shows the time. Today it is a detail that emphasizes status and style. Modern manufacturers offer models that differ in mechanisms, materials, designs, prices. Let's figure out what a men's watch is like, and what should be considered when choosing a suitable model.

Conventionally, there are several types of wristwatches for men.

• Everyday... Such accessories are worn every day. They can have different designs depending on the lifestyle and style of clothing. Businessmen and office workers choose elegant and laconic models, those who do not wear business suits prefer casual style, students often buy interesting youth options. However, in any case, the product must be comfortable, of high quality and reliable.

• Formal... High-ranking officials may have hours for special occasions. These are expensive jewelry models made of precious metals with stones. They are worn at gala receptions, meetings with important partners in high-end restaurants, etc. The rest of the time, the accessory lies in the box along with other valuable things, while their owner wears a more modest model.

• For training. This group includes watches with special functions. For example, runners need a stopwatch, heart rate monitor, distance traveler. For those who are diving, a model that can withstand immersion to great depths is useful.

• Tactical... Lovers of long hikes in the wilderness and adventure in extreme conditions also need a special watch. They should be lightweight, comfortable, waterproof, as accurate as possible, and with anti-magnetic properties. It is desirable to have a backlight and a compass. The accessory must have increased resistance to mechanical stress, because accidental impacts are inevitable in such conditions.

• Army... Once upon a time, such a watch was focused exclusively on the Armed Forces. By special order of the Ministry of Defense, commander's models were produced, which are included in the set of ceremonial uniforms for officers.

In such products, the main driving element is coil spring... Products do not need batteries, but require a regular plant... Despite this, they remain popular, as they are considered more complex in terms of internal structure, prestigious and "real". Such models are more often chosen by business people.

Some consider the disadvantage of mechanical models error probability in stroke accuracy... However, the lag or "running ahead" can be no more than 30-40 seconds, which is not critical even for punctual people. As for the need to constantly wind up the watch, this issue is also being resolved. Many modern firms produce products with self-winding. Such products independently maintain operability due to the movement of the user's hand. True, for this they need to be worn every day.

These models run on batteries, supplemented with quartz crystals. Here the maximum possible error is no more than 10-15 seconds per month.Of course, the batteries have to be changed, but this does not need to be done often (once every 1-3 years, depending on the model). The advantage such products can also be called strength and resistance to environmental influences. In addition, they usually cost less than mechanical ones. Of course, there is no need to talk about the old traditions of watchmaking here, but such models can look very dignified.

Products of this type are also function by batteries. Their distinctive feature is the presence of a digital display. No wonder they do it more often. sports model hours. A separate group can be distinguished LED wrist models. Stylistically, they are similar to ordinary electronic products, only in this case the characters are displayed on a dark screen.

This is a special kind of watch. The products do not require periodic winding, daily wear or battery replacement. The fact is that the work of such accessories is based on the energy of the sun. The watch has a special battery, which collects sunlight falling on an object and transforms it into a driving force. At the same time, there is no need to put the watch out in the sun every day. A single charge can provide a full month of uninterrupted operation. Products in this group also usually have sporty designare equipped with useful additional functions.

Such models are the embodiment of modern technology. Products react to hand touch, have many options that are useful for both athletes and ordinary citizens (calorie counter, pedometer, heart rate monitor, distance detector, etc.). Some models synchronized with mobile phone via bluetooth. Thanks to this, the user can listen to music, find out the news, read messages and even answer calls.

Manufacturers take into account all the nuances of using products. The screen does not react to contact with clothing or other objects, so there is no need to be afraid of accidental activation. As for the fragility of the models, it all depends on the manufacturer.

The most commonly used materials for the manufacture of wrist accessory cases are several.

• Stainless steel... Strong and durable material that looks quite presentable. Metal products are resistant to wear, unpretentious in operation, and have shockproof properties. The only drawback is a lot of weight.

• Titanium... The material is reliable, lightweight, hypoallergenic, corrosion resistant. In addition, it retains the heat emanating from the human body without causing discomfort even on cold days. Unsurprisingly, titanium watches are quite expensive.

• Aluminum... This is a budget option used to create cheap models. The durability of such products is small. They lose their attractiveness very quickly.

• Plastic... Depending on the type of this material, the accessory can have a different degree of reliability. The harmlessness of plastic also varies. Today there are modern hypoallergenic varieties used by established brands. When it comes to cheap plastic products, the quality is usually questionable.

• Fiberglass... It is a unique composite of polymer and fiberglass. It is resistant to negative environmental influences and impacts, strong, durable and environmentally friendly. At the same time, the material weighs little, lends itself to staining. Such watches are usually bought by professional athletes, as the accessories have a corresponding design and are supplied with additional functions.

• Precious metals (gold, silver). These materials can be used both for coating steel with a thin layer and for the manufacture of the entire body. Depending on the amount of gold or silver in the product, its price varies.

• Ceramics... An unusual solution that is gaining popularity every day. Lightweight and beautiful material is resistant to moisture. It does not tarnish, does not cause allergies, and is pleasant to the touch. The only drawback is the fragility of ceramic products. Despite the fact that modern processing can significantly increase the strength of the material, if an accessory is dropped, it can break.

• Wood... Such a watch looks rather unusual. They are not very popular, but some consider them to be an interesting element, suitable for a relaxed summer look. The idea of ​​making wooden clocks is especially popular with connoisseurs of jewelry made from natural materials (bracelets, necklaces, etc.).

The dial is covered with a transparent material. There are also several options here.

• Sapphire crystal. This is the most expensive and scratch-resistant option. Such glass breaks more easily than other materials, but its ability to remain flawless for a long time when worn neatly still makes it the best. Usually such glasses have premium accessories.

• Mineral glass. This material is more readily available. It has a good degree of strength and is used in many models of the middle price segment. The only drawback is the possibility of scratches over time.

• Plexiglass (a type of plastic). This lightweight and transparent material is easy to scratch, although in some cases the surface appearance can be restored by polishing. This is the cheapest option for "glazing", which is used in the production of inexpensive models. Over time, plexiglass becomes slightly cloudy, losing its ideal transparency.

The bracelet can be made either made of the same material as the body (steel, silver, gold, plastic, fiberglass), either leather (natural or artificial). Experts do not recommend buying products from leatherette... They quickly lose their attractiveness and look very cheap. As for metal, it is better to purchase such products not over the Internet, but in a retail store.

Before buying a watch with a metal bracelet, it is better to try it on so that estimate their weight. Some models are quite heavy, which not every man will like. The optimal weight of the accessory is no more than 100 grams.

Depending on the model, the watch may have different options.

1. Tritium-backlit versions let you see the time even in low light.
2. Models with a compass will not let the hiker get lost in the forest.
3. Products with a pedometer are necessary for everyone who cares about their health, because doctors advise taking at least 10,000 steps every day.
4. An accessory with an alarm clock will eliminate the need to set an alarm on your phone or desk clock.
5. Chronograph models are essential for athletes. This feature allows you to make your workouts more effective by tracking your results. If a tachometer is added to this, then a person can receive data on the average speed of his movement.
6. The second time indication is useful for those who travel frequently.
7. This watch with a lunar calendar will appeal to those who pay attention to the phases of the moon when making any decisions.

As mentioned earlier, there are models that have Internet access and capable of performing many functions of a mobile phone... In addition to useful additions, the accessory can be endowed with special characteristics. For example, for some users the waterproofness of the product is very important. Shockproof properties are also a plus.

This group includes mechanical or quartz watches, suitable for business suits. Most men prefer products with round dial and leather strap. Some choose rectangular shape. Strap color classic watches should be black or brown. Models with a metal bracelet can also be worn with business attire. In any case, such products should not have numerous additions that complicate the design.

This includes products that cannot be overlooked. TUrbioins, calendars, chronographs and other details make accessories brutal and stylish. If a man wants to demonstrate his status, he can purchase a watch adorned with precious stones. Shimmering in the rays of light, they will attract rapturous glances.

Casual but informal hours may also be mechanical or quartz... However, there are no strict rules for choosing the color of the strap, which can be gray, blue, green. The set of options also depends only on the needs of the owner of the accessory.

TO informal models also include spectacular white and black ceramics, sensory models. Products casual style can be both restrained and minimalistic, as well as original and even shocking.

Retro models are not meant for the general public. Such products are bought by connoisseurs of traditions. Of course, with modern clothes, such a watch will look strange. However, if a man dresses, for example, in the spirit of the English intelligentsia of past years, then such an accessory can become an excellent complement to the image.

This group includes electronic models... They are distinguished by their massiveness, a large set of functions. Usually such products are made of plastic or fiberglass, but if you wish, you can find an option on a leather strap. Most men choose a black or gray sports watch. The color red is also popular. Bright and vigorous, it energizes and cheers up, which is very useful in training.

In the ratings of the most prestigious watches, brand products are in the lead Switzerland and Japan... Among Swiss companies, one can distinguish Rolex, Blancpain, Oris, Patek Philippe, IWC Schaffhausen, Vacheron Constantin, TAG Heuer, Omega. Famous Japanese brands: Orient, Citizen, Seiko, Casio. American watches are also popular, for example, Hamilton, Bulova. As for Russian manufacturers, here you can recall Volmax, Vostok-Europe, Raketa, Romanoff.

When choosing a watch, it is worth paying attention to a few points.

• Design... Here it is important to think about what kind of clothes you will wear the accessory with. A classic elegant watch on a leather strap or a metal bracelet looks good with business attire. The color of the metal should match the shade of your other accessories (tie clips, cufflinks, bag accessories, trouser belt buckles, etc.). Different models are suitable for informal casual looks. Here you should focus on your personal taste. If you prefer a sporty style of clothing, choose watches from the appropriate categories. A classic watch with a tracksuit, even stylish and expensive, will look out of place.

• Mechanism... The choice of mechanism is also partly related to the style of clothing. The classics are mechanical and quartz products. Any model can be classified as informal casual options. Sports accessories usually work electronically. Special attention should be paid here to mechanical models. If you are looking to purchase this option, consider whether you would be annoyed by the need for regular manual winding.

• Feature set... Usually additional options affect the cost of an accessory.Therefore, it is logical to choose models only with those additions that you really need. The lunar calendar, echo sounder and other specific options may be completely redundant.

• The size. Consider your body size when choosing an accessory on hand. A watch with a huge dial and a massive bracelet will look strange on a thin hand. A large man with a small graceful watch will also look strange.

• Convenience. If possible, try on your watch. The strap or bracelet should be the right size for you. You shouldn't feel any discomfort, friction, or excessive weight. The accessory should be comfortable to wear and use.

• Price... If your budget is tight, you don't have to buy a very expensive watch. There are also decent models in the middle price segment. But an accessory of dubious quality that is too cheap can hardly be considered a good investment. Usually, such models break down quickly and lose their original appearance.

How to choose the right men's wristwatch, see the next video.