Wrist Watch Buying Guide: Quartz vs Automatic, Water Resistance and Size

A good watch is something you wear every day, so it is worth choosing carefully. These are the points that separate a watch you will love from one that stays in a drawer.

1. Movement: quartz or automatic

• Quartz: runs on a battery, very accurate, low maintenance and usually lighter. The battery needs changing every year or few years.
• Automatic (mechanical): powered by your wrist movement, no battery. Valued for craftsmanship and the smooth sweeping second hand, but less accurate than quartz and needs servicing over time. If you do not wear it for a day or two, it may stop and need resetting.
• Solar quartz: charges from light, so battery changes are rare.

2. Water resistance: what the numbers mean

Water resistance ratings are tested in a lab and do not mean you can dive to that depth:

• 3 ATM / 30 m: splashes and rain only. Do not shower or swim.
• 5 ATM / 50 m: hand washing and light swimming.
• 10 ATM / 100 m: swimming and snorkelling.

Never press the buttons or pull the crown underwater, and avoid hot water, which can weaken the seals.

3. Glass

Mineral glass is common and affordable. Sapphire crystal is much more scratch-resistant. Acrylic is light and easy to polish but scratches easily.

4. Size and fit

Case diameter is measured in millimetres. Men's watches are often 38–44 mm and women's 26–36 mm, but the right size depends on your wrist. The lugs should not hang over the edges of your wrist. Thinner watches fit more easily under shirt sleeves.

5. Strap

• Stainless steel: durable and smart; links can be removed to fit.
• Leather: classic and comfortable, but keep it away from water.
• Silicone or rubber: best for sport and everyday wear in hot weather.

6. Style for the occasion

A simple dial with a steel or leather strap works with both office and casual wear. Chronographs and divers' styles look sporty. If you only buy one watch, keep it versatile.

Browse our men's watches, ladies' watches and the full watch collection. Send us your wrist size on WhatsApp and we will suggest models that fit well.