Watch Buying Guide


​Introduction

Watches are no longer just functional objects, they are also an expression of fashion and lifestyle. Yet despite the growing number of smartphones and smartwatches, the traditional wrist watch is still a highly desired object for many. The most common type of watch is the standard quartz crystal movement - an electronic circuit watch with a vibrating quartz piece that helps keeps precise time to within tenths of hundredths of seconds. However today the choice is vast,  with many watches including functions such as  alarms, calculators, stopwatches and calendars to name but a few. Battery operated watches are also no longer the only option when it comes to power. Watches powered by light and movement such as Citizen's Eco Drive or Seiko's Kinetic, are leading the way in environmentally friendly technologies. Below is a break down of history, technologies and handy info to help you choose the right watch for you.

​The brands we currently stock are:
CITIZEN
"Citizen is recognised as a worldwide leader in advanced technology. From the world’s slimmest LCD watch to the first voice recognition watch and the world’s first professional dive watch with an electronic depth sensor, Citizen’s record of world firsts is unmatched."
​ - www.citizenwatch.com

We have a wide range of Gents and Ladies Citizen watches in stock and to order, including quartz watches, Eco-Drives, diamond-set 'Sunrise' collection watches, chronographs and satellite watches.  

SEIKO
"Since its establishment in 1881, Seiko Corporation has continuously built a reputation for precision, reliability and excellence in advancing technology." - www.seiko.co.uk

We have a wide range of Gents and Ladies Seiko watches and clocks in stock and to special order, including Seiko solar and kinetic technology watches, Sportura collection, 'Melody in Motion' wall clocks and many more.
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ROTARY
"Rotary Watches Limited is an award-winning worldwide brand of classic timepieces. The firm was founded in 1895 by Moise Dreyfuss in the Swiss town of La Chaux de Fonds. Rotary is still owned by the Dreyfuss family through Dreyfuss Group Holdings and, with Robert Dreyfuss at the helm, is the oldest family-owned and run Swiss watchmaker." -  www.rotarywatches.com

We stock a selective range of classic Gents and Ladies Rotary watches with many more available to special order. 
DID YOU KNOW - If there is a watch within the range you like, we can specially order it for you! 

What makes watches tick?

Mechanical Watches
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In simple terms, a mechanical watch is powered by a mainspring in a housing called a barrel.  The mainspring when wound by hand via the button and stem, unwinds very slowly transmitting power to the gear train. The gear train is connected to the escapement adjustment, which in turn transmits impulses to the balance wheel. The balance wheel oscillates to produce a ticking sound.  
​Quartz Watches
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In simple terms, quartz is a natural crystal, however many quartz movements use a synthetic lab-created crystal grown with out impurities. When activated by power the quartz crystal vibrates, creating a frequency. The higher the frequency, the higher the accuracy of time keeping. The brain of the watch is the integrated circuit or 'IC'. It consists of a large number of minute electronic parts. The IC coverts power from the battery into impulses which keep the quartz crystal vibrating. ​
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Automatic Winding

A self winding mechanism consists of a weighted rotor arm that swings back and forth with every movement of the wrist. This moment winds the mainspring which unwinds very slowly transmitting power to the gear train. The gear train is connected to the escapement adjustment, which in turn transmits impulses to the balance wheel. The balance wheel oscillates to produce a ticking sound.  
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Choosing a watch

There are lots of factors to consider when choosing a watch. There are many different materials, functions, straps and movements to consider, not to mention how it looks to the eye! To make it simple we have broken this topic into three categories - Form, Function and Movement. Click on the options below to explore.​
FORM - hOW YOUR WATCH LOOKS
  • The Crystal 
  • The Strap or Bracelet
  • The Case
FUNCTION - WhaT YOUR WATCH CAN DO
  • Perpetual Calendar
  • GPS
  • Tachymeter
  • Water resistance
  • Compass
  • Barometer
  • Altimeter
  • Chronograph

MOVEMENT - HOW YOUR WATCH WORKS
  • Mechanical Wind Up Movement
  • Automatic Movement
  • Quartz Movement
  • Citizen Eco-Drive
  • Seiko Kinetic
  • Seiko Solar

Water Resistance

Most watches today have some level of water resistance dependant on the design of the watch and the intended purpose. When buying a watch consider whether or not you will be wearing it in water. Below is a simple list to explain the differences between the various water resistances available. 
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  • No Indication - this would suggest that the watch is NOT resistant to splashing or contact with water of any kind.
  • Water Resistant - will resist moisture from accidental splashing, rain, sweat etc.
  • Water Resistant 50m - will resist moisture from accidental splashing, rain, showering or swimming.
  • Water Resistant 100m - watch may be worn for swimming or snorkelling if properly sealed.
  • Water Resistant 200m - watch may be worn for diving to a 200 meters max static pressure.

Please note - if your watch has had a battery change than your water resistance may have been compromised. Watches can be re-sealed / re-pressurised via workshop. Please ask for more details. Always double check that your winder is correctly positioned and closed before coming into contact with water.​
DID YOU KNOW -  'M' on a watch refers to metres, or measure of depth. 'ATM' refers to atmosphere, or measurement or pressure. You can generally find these requirements and other serial / model numbers on the back of your case or clasp.


​Straps & Bracelets

We stock a wide range of leather straps, expanding bracelets and metal bracelets in store, but have many more to special order upon request including canvas, rubber, coloured and ceramic. It is important to ensure that your strap or bracelet fits correctly - to accommodate this we do offer fitting and alterations in store. Below is a list of available straps and styles and the benefits each can offer.
  • Hirsch Leather Straps - Luxurious straps in a wide range of leathers including precious leathers such as alligator, crocodile and lizard. Some straps also feature water resistances, hypoallergenic properties and aloe vera for softness. We stock sizes 6mm - 30mm, although some styles may be available just to special order.
  • Darlena Straps - Fine quality watchbands by a British family-run company. Made from high grade leather and tested against colour loss, strength and water absorption.We stock a wide range including sports and leisure silicone, rubber and nylon bands, metal bracelets and the exotic Puccini collection, handmade in Italy. Many strap lengths and sizes available.
  • Metal Bracelets - We stock a wide range of stainless steel, bi-colour, and gold plate metal bracelets in various styles and sizes. For specialist bracelets such as titanium or coloured just ask for more details.
  • Expanding Metal Bracelets - If you find wearing a leather strap uncomfortable, or perhaps struggle with a clasp why not try an expanding strap? We stock a select range of yellow and white metal expanding straps, in various designs and styles. More bracelets available to special order. ​


​Taking Care Of Your Watch

To ensure your watch looks great and works accurately it is important to service your watch regularly. Time between servicing will vary depending on the technology, model, environment and conditions it is being used. Service charges will also vary depending on the type of watch e.g. mechanical, satellite, prestigious brand etc. However, there is lots you can do on a regular basis to prolong the life of your watch.

For water resistant models:
  • Always refer to the instruction booklet and manufacturer's guarantee for specific care instructions. 
  • Do not exceed the water resistance for your watch as stated on the model. For more info consult your instruction booklet.
  • Ensure your winder is closed and in the correct position before contact with water.
  • Keep your watch away from chemicals and perfumes.
  • If exposed to seawater make sure you wash your watch in clean water and wipe dry to remove all traces of salt. Exposure to seawater may corrode your watch.
  • When changing a battery please ensure your battery is changed by a professional, who can also check your seal and re-pressurise if necessary.
  • Do not expose your watch to high temperatures.

For NON water resistance models:
  • Always refer to the instruction booklet and manufacturer's guarantee for specific care instructions. 
  • Clean your strap or bracelet with a damp cloth regularly, especially after perspiring or coming into contact with seawater.
  • Do not expose your watch to high temperatures.
  • Avoid contact with water.

​For watch services and repairs see SERVICES page