Buying guide: How to choose a luxury watch

16 August 2023
Tamer
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Choosing a luxury watch is important, as it reflects your personality and style. But how do you choose the right watch from the vast array of options? Here are some tips to help you make the right decision:

Set your budget

Setting a budget is crucial when buying a luxury watch, as prices vary considerably, from a few hundred to tens of thousands of riyals. Therefore, we recommend the following:

  • Determine in advance the amount of money you can afford and feel comfortable spending on a luxury watch. Consider your monthly income and other financial obligations before setting your budget.
  • Do a preliminary search for luxury wristwatch prices to get a general idea of the price range. You'll find prices ranging from a few hundred to tens of thousands of riyals.
  • Set a specific percentage of your income or savings that you are willing to spend as a maximum per hour, taking into account your financial obligations.
  • Set a budget for the watch and commit to not exceeding it. This will save you time and effort while researching and comparing options.
  • If your budget is significantly exceeded, reconsider your needs and preferences to find options that are more suitable for your specific budget.

Therefore, we recommend setting a clear and specific budget before purchasing, to ensure you get a high-quality luxury watch that suits your needs without overspending.

Understanding the different types of luxury watches

Luxury watches come in a wide variety of types, so it's important to understand the characteristics of each type before buying. Some of the most prominent types include:

  • Traditional analog watches: These rely on mechanical technology using gears and springs. They are characterized by high accuracy and long lifespan.
  • Digital watches: They display the time digitally and are battery-powered. They are more accurate than analog watches, but battery life is limited.
  • Smartwatches: Connected electronic watches that offer advanced features such as phone notifications and fitness tracking.
  • Dive watches: Designed for divers, waterproof and pressure resistant. Features functional panels for measuring dive depths and times.
  • Chronograph watches: They focus on measuring time with extreme precision, with advanced timing capabilities.

Choose the type that suits your needs. For example, if you are a fan of water sports, diving watches are the most suitable. If you want an elegant watch, think about analog watches with a sophisticated classic design.

Choosing the right size and shape

The size and shape of a luxury watch should suit your wrist size and personal preferences to ensure both comfort and style. Some tips include:

  • Measure your wrist to find the right size for you, and avoid watches that are too large, which may restrict hand movement or cause discomfort.
  • Watches with a diameter of less than 42 mm are generally suitable for females, and those larger are suitable for males.
  • Make sure the seller can adjust the size of the bracelet to fit your wrist perfectly.
  • Think about the shape you prefer, whether it is round, square or rectangular, and choose the design that reflects your taste.
  • It is helpful to try on the watch in person before buying to make sure the size and shape are suitable for you.
  • Consult the seller about the appropriate size and shape for your wrist type and gender.

Choosing the right size and shape is crucial to ensuring comfort and harmony with your own style, so take your time in making this decision.

Focus on quality and craftsmanship

When buying a luxury watch, it is crucial to focus on quality and high craftsmanship, through:

  • Pay attention to the quality of the materials used in manufacturing, whether it's metals like gold and steel, scratch-resistant glass, or the quality of the watch strap made of leather or metal.
  • Ensuring the use of the best and most accurate manufacturing and assembly techniques for watch parts, to guarantee accuracy and longevity.
  • Note the fine details and craftsmanship touches such as the quality of the paint, engraving, and belt.
  • Paying attention to the accuracy of the clock mechanism and its indicators, and the harmony and smoothness of its movement.
  • Ensuring the watch conforms to international specifications and standards such as Swiss Control standards.
  • Look for watches that bear the label "Swiss Made" or "Handmade" to indicate high quality.

For example, Cartier luxury watches are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship and quality, with complex mechanisms that are meticulously handcrafted.

Taking your needs and lifestyle into account

When choosing a luxury watch, it's important to consider your personal needs and lifestyle to ensure you get the most out of it. Some tips include:

  • Consider the purpose of buying the watch. Will it be for everyday use or only for formal occasions? This will determine whether you need durability or elegance.
  • Think about your activities and hobbies. For example, if you are a fan of water sports, you will need a water-resistant watch.
  • Specify the features you need in the watch, such as physical activity tracking or compatibility with your smartphone.
  • Choose a design and color that matches your clothes and personal style, so that the watch matches your personality.
  • Make sure the size and shape of the watch are suitable for your daily lifestyle and the activities you do.
  • Review your budget and priorities before purchasing to avoid overspending.

Taking your individual needs and lifestyle into account will help you make a more appropriate purchasing decision.

Searching for trusted brands

When buying a luxury watch, it is important to look for brands with a high reputation and credibility in the watchmaking industry. Some tips include:

  • Focus on leading and prestigious brands such as Cardial, Hugo Rolex, Patek Philippe, Cartier, Omega, and others.
  • Make sure of the brand's reputation, authenticity, and long experience in the field of luxury watchmaking.
  • Look for the international awards and certifications that the brand has received in recognition of its quality.
  • Check that the watch has a comprehensive warranty that covers any manufacturing defects.
  • Check the reputation of the local agent or distributor of the brand.
  • Read online reviews and customer opinions about their experiences with this brand.

Relying on reputable brands gives you the best guarantee of a high-quality watch that will last a long time.

Price comparison between different stores

When buying a luxury watch, you should compare prices between different stores and websites to find the best price. Here are some tips:

  • Search and compare prices via online shopping engines to find out the prices of the desired watch from various online stores.
  • Make sure you compare prices for the exact same model and not just compare prices for the brand.
  • Keep an eye on your local stores to find out about their seasonal offers and discounts.
  • Make sure to compare prices between online stores and traditional stores to choose the most suitable option.
  • Don't forget to look for a discount code or coupon that can be used to save even more.
  • If you find the watch at a much lower price, check the seller's credibility before buying.

This way you will be able to get the best possible price while maintaining the quality of the watch you want.

How to take care of your luxury watch

It is important to take proper care of your luxury watch to preserve it for as long as possible. Here are some tips:

  • Clean the watch regularly with a soft cloth and a special cleaner to remove dust and fingerprints. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
  • Avoid exposing the watch to strong shocks or very high temperatures, as this may affect its delicate mechanism.
  • Have the watch serviced and inspected periodically every 3-5 years by specialists to ensure optimal performance and detect any problems early.
  • Place the watch in its original box when not wearing it to protect it from dust and shocks.
  • Use a soft cloth or brush to clean the belt periodically.
  • Be sure to keep the watch away from other jewelry to avoid scratches.

Following these tips regularly will help maintain the elegance and beauty of your watch for as long as possible.

Here are the most important questions about buying luxury watches, along with their answers:

1- What are the most important factors to consider when choosing a luxury watch?

Budget, design, size, brand, quality, technical specifications, and personal lifestyle should all be considered.

2- How do I determine the appropriate budget when buying a luxury watch?

Set a maximum percentage of your income or savings that you are willing to spend, taking into account your other financial obligations.

3- What are the most famous luxury watch brands?

Cardial, Hugo, Rolex, Cartier, Omega, Patek Philippe, H&M and other leading brands.

4- Are the most expensive watches necessarily the best?

No, not necessarily. The best option is what suits your needs, fits your budget, and matches your style.

5- How can I be sure of the quality and authenticity of the watch I want to buy?

Check the brand, warranty, quality certifications and customer reviews online.

6- What are the main advantages of mechanical watches compared to electronic ones?

Mechanical devices are more precise and have a longer lifespan; electronic devices have more technical features, but their batteries run out.

7- When is it preferable to choose a water-resistant watch?

For swimming, diving or water sports, where you can tolerate prolonged exposure to water.

8- Is it preferable to choose a watch with a large or small size for men?

Men prefer a size with a diameter of at least 42 mm, while women prefer smaller ones.

9- How often should luxury watches be serviced and inspected?

Once every 3 to 5 years, a specialist technician will check its optimal performance.

10- How can I protect my watch from scratches?

Store it in its box when not in use, and avoid contact with other jewelry.

11- Can I replace the strap on my luxury watch?

Yes, it can be exchanged at the brand's store or authorized dealer.

12- How many years can a luxury watch function?

They range from 15 to 25 years or more if properly cared for.

13- How do I clean my watch safely?

Use a soft cloth and a suitable detergent, avoiding harsh chemical cleaners.

14- What are the best places to buy a luxury watch at a good price?

Prices can be compared between online and local stores, and discounts and coupons can be searched for.

15- Is there a warranty on luxury watches?

Yes, most major brands offer a multi-year warranty against any manufacturing defects.

These were the most important tips to help you choose the perfect luxury watch that suits your taste and lifestyle. Remember to take your time and carefully review your options to find a watch you'll feel proud to wear every time. We hope you enjoy your new luxury watch purchase and that it adds a touch of elegance and confidence to your look, especially if it's from Cardial.