April 10, 2010

Time For A New Watch?

Lifestyle should be considered when picking out a timepiece

Most of us wish we had more of it, but time is of the essence.

Keeping track of time we have is easier made wearing a watch for most of us.

The integration of three main components is essential for a watch to tell time; a source of energy, a mechanism to regulate time, and a display. For a source of energy in a timepiece a battery (for electronic) or mechanical (as a wound spring) can be use. Movement is what a watch’s main timekeeping mechanism is called. The two categories that today’s watches fall into are; mechanical movements and quartz movements.

There are about 130 parts that make up a mechanical watch. Wound by the movement of the wearer’s wrist is how the mechanism that contains a series of gears function. A quartz watch relies on a battery for energy rather than a wound spring. With a series of electronic components that fit all together in a tiny space is how a quartz watch works.

Some consider their watch as a fashion statement; others wear a watch simply to keep track of time. The watch that you wear may say something about who you are.

Marketing will have an effect on how certain watches appeal to certain people. For example Rolex may be a consideration for those who are interested in prestige and accomplishments, while the trendy type or sport-oriented may go for a Tag Hauer.

More traditional and quality conscious people may opt for a Swiss-made watch, such as Tissot or Swiss Army brands.

With regards to watches, traditions have changed over the years.

Before it was not uncommon to have someone buy a watch and wear it day-in day-out for 10, 20, 30 years. These days you can see people having watches to go with different outfits or different occasions. To see people having four or five watches is not uncommon these days.

To recognize a promotion or lengthy work service, even to commemorate a wedding, anniversary or even a birth, the gift of a watch is often given. The consideration of a person’s lifestyle has to be taken into account when purchasing a watch for them.

An active person may need a watch that is water-resistant as well as a scratch-resistant crystal. This could make the watch a little bigger and heavier. A person wearing a watch with a business suit might prefer a leather strap, while a sport enthusiast could prefer a watch with a strap that would absorb moisture.

A timeless design that will last many years without getting dated might be the best choice as a gift if your loved one hasn’t given you a specific recommendation. This can show your everlasting love, which is something, more than a one-time investment.

Buying a Rolex for example, is a lifetime buy and could be expected to be passed on down the family. The engineering of these watches is superb and the after sales service is second to none.

Lets say you were to buy a Timex, if it breaks you would probably just replace it, Timex don’t even keep parts on hand for older models they expect you to buy another one rather than repair.

As far as maintenance, watches should be serviced approximately every five years, mechanical or automatic.

This is because the fine oils lubricating the movements tend to dry out, making the small parts wear much faster.

Selecting a watch

• Lifestyle of the recipient should be considered when buying a watch for a gift: Will the watch be worn in a casual setting or in the boardroom? Are they underwater divers? Do they do a lot of traveling? Are they into sports?
• The personality of the recipient should also be considered: Do they tend to dress more formal or informal in their style? Would they rather have a watch that requires batteries or self-winding? Should the face of the watch be with a lighted display or large numbers.
• Budget should also be considered: Is it quality that you are looking for in a watch? A watch that will require a significant investment and may be last beyond the person’s lifetime, a watch that is serviceable and practical in a medium price range, or a more economical and trendy watch?