Men's top tips for finding a signature timepiece

Men’s watches make a bold statement about the wearer's personality. If you're looking for a signature timepiece, here are some helpful tips.

There’s more to consider than whether or not a watch is analog or digital: there is form, functions, style, materials used and price. For your needs (and wants) which style best suits you?

Luxury watches are finely crafted and beautifully styled. They are elegant choices for executive office wear as well as formal occasions like weddings, parties and other celebrations.

• Often on the higher end of the price scale, these watches are true luxury items.

Quartz watches keep time using an electronic oscillator regulated by a quartz crystal.

• They are extremely accurate and often less expensive than mechanical watches.

Mechanical and self-winding watches keep time with a complicated set of gears and springs that results in the familiar ticking sound.

• They are less accurate than quartz and digital watches, but are prized for their classic inner mechanisms that have been used since the 17th century.

Sport watches are built for sports and outdoor activities, and may offer timers, step counters, compasses and may even be waterproof to particular depths.

• Sports watches can have extremely specific uses, such as diving and flying.

Chronograph watches are also great for sports and specifically have stop-watches, hence the name.

• Higher-end chronograph watches may have several hands that independently measure seconds, minutes and hours.

Pocket watches offer decorative detailing and vintage flair for those looking to make a traditional fashion statement with their formal wear.

• While lovely to look at, pocket watches aren't necessarily the most practical.

When you're buying a new watch, consider any additional special features you might like to have. That includes:

GPS/WiFi

• For the gadget-lovers out there, a GPS or WiFi-enabled watch can turn a fashion statement into a mini computer for your wrist!

Water resistance

• Whether you're spending a day at the beach or you’ve just been invited to your boss's pool party, a water-resistant watch is a safe and tasteful choice.

Activity trackers

• Watches built for runners can measure heart rate, steps, calories and may also track distance and training goals.

Roman numerals

• Roman numerals add a touch of class and sophistication to a stylish analog watch.

In addition to style and features, there are a few more factors to think about before buying your new watch.

Materials

• Metals such as stainless steel, gold and titanium are always elegant and durable choices.
• Ceramic watches come in a matte or polished finish and can be just as elegant as metal, while also being lightweight and scratch-resistant.
• Low-end, less durable plastic watches often come in fun designs and tend to be cheaper.

Strap

• A black leather or metal link strap looks great with a suit or tux at any formal event.
• Fabric, nylon and rubber straps are better suited for casual wear.

Men’s watches are available in scores of designs and materials. Narrow down the perfect watch by listing the features you want, the style you need and the price you’re willing to pay before you head out to shop.