I. Quartz or mechanical

The first thing you should consider when buying a quality timepiece, aside from the price, is if you want a "quartz" (battery powered, solar powered battery, rotor powered battery) or a "mechanical" (self-winding or hand wound).

Quartz timepieces are generally inexpensive, easy to maintain and highly accurate. Mechanical watches are generally more expensive than quartz, and although they are not as accurate, they are still quite accurate. Maintenance is more expensive on a mechanical, so you should consider this, but don't let this deter you from enjoying a fine mechanical timepiece.

Purists would argue that mechanical wristwatches are the only true watches. The first wristwatches were, of course, mechanical. Quartz and mechanical timepieces both have their pros and cons, however, there is a certain something about owning and wearing a mechanical timepiece.

II. Case material

Next you should consider what type of case you prefer. Stainless steel, ceramic, titanium, gold and platinum are the most prevalent materials used for cases. Stainless steel is the most common, and maybe the best all around metal for watchmaking in regards to quality, price and value.

Titanium and ceramic are very light, with ceramic having the added advantage of being very scratch resistant. Titanium and steel are not highly scratch resistant, but with a coating of PVD or DLC (generally black or grey), both titanium and steel can become very resistant to scratching. Gold and platinum provide the most flashiness, but they are also the most expensive case materials, not to mention gold and platinum are extremely heavy.

III. Glass/Crystal

Plexiglass, mineral crystals and sapphire crystals are the three most common types of glass on timepieces. Plastic is common in vintage watches, as well as low priced timepieces. Mineral crystals are found on some entry level timepieces. Sapphire crystals are the most premium type of crystal, as they are virtually scratchproof.

Unless you are buying a watch for under $500, or a vintage timepiece, then you should always look for a sapphire glass. Also, it is best to have one or two coatings of anti-reflective treatment (inside and outside). Some companies forgoe anti-glare treatment, or do a poor job, definitely look for timepieces with anti-reflective.

IV. Functions/Complications

Functionality is important when considering what watch to buy. A basic three hand timepeice displays hours, minutes and seconds. Other popular functions are: chronograph (stop watch), alarm, power reserve, date, calendar and retrograde. Advanced functions, also called complications inlcude: the tourbillon, split-second chronograph, flyback chronograph, perpetual calendar and minute-repeater.

V. Strap or bracelet

There are many great choices when it comes to straps or bracelets. Calfskin leather straps, alligator straps, rubber straps, textile straps, metal bracelets, nato straps and even hybrid bracelet/straps (mixing materials). Think carefully about what type of strap will look and fit good on your wrist.

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