A watch does a lot more than just tell the time.
As well as offering support when out in the field, piloting an aircraft, deep sea diving, or competing in endurance sports, it communicates a lot about the person wearing it.
Say, for instance, you rock up to a client meeting wearing a vintage Rolex. From the moment you first shake hands, the other person is going to know you mean business. But turn up wearing your old rubber sports watch and, well, you’ll certainly leave a strong impression but not the good kind.
This can make finding the right watch for a man a little tricky. There are a plethora of brands, styles, movements, and complications to choose from, and knowing which one is right for which situation, and most importantly, which one is right for you, is somewhat of an art.
That’s why we’ve put together this brief guide to picking the perfect men’s wristwatch. We’re not going to cover every style of watch, just those that are considered ‘stylish’ and that would sit nicely on the wrist of any modern man.
Dress watch
The dress watch is the original wristwatch, born in the early 20th century when well-to do gentlemen wanted to wear their timepiece on their wrist rather than in their pocket. Dress watches are simple, sophisticated, and classy, and a perfect compliment to smart attire.
Dress watches usually make an appearance on formal occasions like weddings and funerals. But their slim cases and sleek leather straps can add a subtle touch of elegance to any special occasion.
Field watch
Field watches come from a prestigious military background as the timepieces of officers who wanted to coordinate attacks while still looking good. For this reason, they’re typically made from stainless steal or titanium and held on the wrist by a leather or canvas strap.
A field watch is a popular choice for men who want a timepiece that can be used for both everyday wear and smart/casual business affairs. Their simple, functional style pairs particularly well with jeans and a t-shirt.
Racing or driving watch
It was nearly a century ago that racing drivers started to adorn watches to accurately track and measure their progress in a race. And so today, any car or racing aficionado will recognise the importance and significance of an accurate and reliable timepiece.
With large dials, contrasting colours, and clear chronographs, driving watches tend to be flashier and more imposing than most watches. Therefore, they’re often only used for casual wear and to impress your buddies.
Dive watch
Designed for people who spent a lot of time in or near water, the dive watch was first popularised by Pierce Brosnan — ever since he wore a Rolex Submariner in Dr. No. Today, it’s one of the most common styles of men’s watches, liked by men of all ages for its heritage, thick bezel, and metal casing.
Probably the most versatile men’s watch, the dive watch can be worn with everything from sports wear to business wear. And if James Bond knows anything about style, then it can also accompany a tuxedo, too.
Pilot watch
Watches and aviation go way back. In fact, right back to 1904 when a pilot friend of Louis Cartier requested a wristwatch to support him on his flights. Today, the pilot watch has evolved into a broad category of aviation watches that are characterised by their large dials, chronographs, and clean, often luminous hands.
Due to their size and often busy dials, pilot watches are more suited for the causal look rather than with formal or business wear. But there are some stunning exceptions, like this Limited Edition Patek Phillipe watch.
Parkers is a century-and-a-half old watch retailer built on loyalty, reliability, and value for money. Browse our catalogue to see our latest stock of pre-owned and vintage watches.
