So, you’re thinking of buying your first luxury watch? That’s a big move! A luxury watch isn’t just about telling time; it’s a piece of art, a statement, and yes, a solid investment. But before you splurge on a Rolex (or any other high-end piece), here are a few things you should consider.
1. Set Your Budget (But Don’t Go Overboard)
© Instagram/Ranveer Singh
The first thing you need to do is set a budget. I get it – luxury watches can be super tempting, but don’t fall into the trap of spending more than you can afford. You can find watches anywhere between ₹50,000 to lakhs, depending on the brand and style.
The goal is to get the best value for what you’re willing to spend. Don’t forget, this is an investment, so be smart about it.
2. Movement: The Heart of Your Watch
© Instagram/Diljit Dosanjh
Let’s talk about movement. That’s the engine of the watch, the thing that powers it. You’ll mostly see three types: automatic, manual, and quartz.
Automatic: These are the ones that wind themselves as you wear them. If you’re after something that screams craftsmanship, this is your choice.
Manual: You have to wind it yourself, pretty cool for those who like to be hands-on.
Quartz: Powered by a battery. It’s more accurate and low maintenance.
3. Classic or Trendy? What’s Your Style?
Do you want to wear something that never goes out of style? Or are you looking for something more current? Classic watches like the Rolex Submariner or Omega Speedmaster have stood the test of time (literally).
On the other hand, there are modern, trendy pieces that make a bold statement. If you’re in the market for a first-time buy, a classic watch might be safer in terms of investment. You can always explore more trendy pieces later on once you’re comfortable.
4. Size Matters
© Instagram/KL Rahul
The size of your watch is key. Whether you’re rocking a slim 38mm or a bolder 44mm, make sure it suits your wrist. Anything too big or too small can throw off the whole vibe.
Most men tend to go for something around 40mm to 42mm, but of course, it all depends on your personal style. Don’t shy away from trying on a few different sizes before making your decision.
5. Material – Stainless Steel, Gold, or Something Else?
Now, let’s talk about the material. Luxury watches come in various metals – stainless steel is the most common and durable, but titanium is lighter and more scratch-resistant. For those of you who like the luxe life, gold and platinum watches will definitely make heads turn.
Remember, the material you pick affects the look and weight of your watch. Go for something that matches your lifestyle. If you’re outdoors a lot, titanium might be your best bet. But if you’re in for the long haul with a piece you’ll cherish, stainless steel does the job.
6. Brand Name: It Does Matter (But Don’t Go Overboard)
© Instagram/Vijay Varma
There are certain iconic luxury watch brands – Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet. These names carry weight and are recognised worldwide. But here’s the thing: don’t feel the pressure to buy just because it’s a well-known brand.
There are also great, emerging brands with amazing timepieces that won’t break the bank but still offer incredible craftsmanship. Look for a brand that resonates with your style. Trust me, you’ll find something that fits your personality perfectly.
7. Extra Functions – Not Just Timekeeping
A luxury watch doesn’t just tell time. Think about what other functions you might need. Do you want a chronograph (stopwatch)? Maybe a date display? Or if you travel a lot, a GMT feature (to track multiple time zones) could be useful. Make sure the watch matches your lifestyle.
A diver’s watch might be ideal if you’re into adventure sports, but if you’re more of a business type, a sleek dress watch might be the way to go.
8. Resale Value – Think About the Future
© Instagram/Ibrahim Ali Khan
We all know the feeling of getting something new and then wondering if it’ll hold its value. Luxury watches can actually be pretty good at holding or even increasing their value over time.
For example, models from brands like Rolex or Patek Philippe can sell for more than you bought them after a few years, especially if they’re rare or limited-edition. So, if you’re planning on reselling later on, make sure you choose a watch that’s likely to retain its value.