Watch Guide

Start with fit, then choose the movement, materials and features that suit how you will wear the watch. Comparing measurements with a watch you already like is more reliable than judging from photos alone.

1. Check the fit

Case diameter: the width of the case, normally excluding the crown.
Lug-to-lug: the distance between the top and bottom lug tips. This often predicts wrist fit better than diameter alone.
Case thickness: thicker watches sit higher and feel more substantial.
Strap / bracelet: check length, clasp type and lug width. Bracelets can often be resized.

Wrist circumference	Case-diameter starting point
Under 15 cm	About 28–36 mm
15–17 cm	About 34–40 mm
17–19 cm	About 38–44 mm
Over 19 cm	About 42–46 mm+

These are broad starting points only. Case shape, bezel width and lug length can make two watches with the same diameter wear differently.

2. Choose the movement

Movement	Best suited to	What to know
Quartz	Accuracy and convenience	Battery powered and generally very accurate.
Solar / light powered	Low-maintenance quartz use	Charges from light and stores energy in a rechargeable cell.
Automatic / mechanical	Traditional watchmaking	Powered by motion or hand winding. Usually less precise than quartz and may need periodic servicing.

3. Pick useful features

Everyday: clear dial, date, durable crystal and a comfortable strap or bracelet.
Travel: GMT or world time can be useful.
Timing: a chronograph adds stopwatch functions.
Low light: look for luminous hands and markers.
Lower weight: titanium, resin and fabric can reduce weight.
Scratch resistance: sapphire is highly scratch resistant; mineral crystal is common and can offer good impact resistance.

4. Read water resistance conservatively

An ATM rating is a laboratory pressure rating, not a literal depth guarantee. Follow the manufacturer instructions for the exact model.

Rating	Practical interpretation
3 ATM / 30 m	Splashes and light rain. Not intended for swimming.
5 ATM / 50 m	Everyday water exposure. Do not assume swimming suitability unless the manufacturer permits it.
10 ATM / 100 m	Commonly suitable for swimming and surface water activities when the watch is in good condition.
20 ATM / 200 m+	Higher water resistance. Diving still depends on the model being designed and approved for it.

Water resistance is not permanent. Gaskets age, impacts can affect seals and opening the case can change resistance. Consider pressure testing after a battery change or case opening.

Before ordering

Compare case diameter and lug-to-lug with a watch you already know.
Check case thickness, weight and strap or bracelet fit.
Confirm the movement type and features you actually need.
Check crystal, case and strap materials.
Confirm water resistance, warranty, accessories and delivery details.