Watch buying guide

Five questions that narrow thousands of watches down to a handful.

1. Where will you wear it?

Office and evenings favour a slimmer case and a leather strap. Weekends and travel favour a steel bracelet and real water resistance. If one watch has to do everything, look for 100 m water resistance, a case under 12 mm thick and a bracelet with quick-release straps.

2. Mechanical or quartz?

Mechanical watches are about craft and character; expect a few seconds of variation per day and a service every five to eight years. Quartz is about accuracy and convenience. Neither is better — they answer different wishes.

3. What size suits your wrist?

Lug-to-lug length matters more than diameter. See our size guide for a quick way to measure.

4. Which complications will you actually use?

A date is handy every day. A GMT hand earns its place if you travel or work across time zones. A chronograph is a joy to operate, even if you only time pasta. Each complication adds thickness and cost.

5. New or pre-owned?

New gives you the full manufacturer warranty and an untouched piece. Pre-owned can open up discontinued references and better value. Always check what documentation is included and the stated condition.