Getting a watch is simple! As long as you’ve been a fan for a while, are aware of the state of the market, keep up with trends, and know who are reliable vendors. But what if this is the first high-end watch you’ve purchased?

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Most newcomers to the world of luxury timepieces are motivated by a mix of these factors. They don’t want to come to regret the purchase, thus they want a watch that satisfies as many requirements as feasible. These five tried-and-true suggestions have assisted a lot of first-time shoppers in making purchases they are pleased with. That’s really what it’s all about, isn’t it?

1. You Must Enjoy Wearing Your Watch

The first step is to peruse the several marketplaces and websites that sell and purchase watches. The whole design of your dream watch, including its functionality, case material, size and form, Roman or Arabic numerals, time display, and strap or bracelet, must be chosen. Generally speaking, I would suggest a round steel watch with two or three hands on a metal band for someone’s first luxury buy. Why? Round cases are the most common shape, steel cases and metal bands are useful and long-lasting, and for your first watch, you really only need the essential functions—hours, minutes, seconds, and maybe a date—for practicality’s sake.

Visiting a store and trying on models you like is the second step. Although I believe it’s crucial to evaluate a watch’s ergonomics, appearance, and feel in person, you can certainly utilize digital tools like the Chrono24 Virtual Showroom to get a quick assessment. Sometimes, you’ll discover that the “dream watch” is too big for your wrist. It’s time to try something different if that’s the case. It’s only a matter of searching for the ideal watch for you. Factors like as appearance and ease of wear are crucial. Ultimately, because you will be wearing this every day, you ought to be happy with how your wrist looks. Now, let’s assume that you’ve discovered the ideal watch and go to the following phase.

2. Cost Is Important

I purposely ranked money lower. Even if it’s evident that the person contemplating a luxury watch has the means to do so, budget is crucial! Spending a reasonable sum on your first watch is advised. Thus, you won’t be borrowing money from friends to get a model that is too expensive. In the unlikely event that your watch falls to the ground the day after you purchase it, you’ll probably need to pay for expensive repairs. If you spent so much money on the watch and are unable to wear it, you’ll feel really ridiculous. Spending “unexpected” money on your first buy might be a superior strategy. Examples of such funds are a yearly bonus, a sizable commission charge, or cash from a special occasion or holiday.

Additionally, keep in mind not to let advertisements or people around you influence you too much: Buying your first watch is a chance for you to show off your personal style, values, and sense of self. This takes us to the next point.

3. Discover Common Ground With Your Favorite Brand

Nearly all brands search for consumers in populated areas. By this, I mean via supporting athletic events, social and cultural gatherings, and environmental projects. This is an excellent starting point for determining whether brands align with your personal values and interests. Perhaps you have a passion for sailing yachts? The decision between Panerai and Ulysse Nardin then seems clear. Wish to soar to great heights? Check out Breitling or Longines. Extremely interested in racing? You’re covered by Hublot, TAG Heuer, and Rolex. Are you fascinated by space? ardent James Bond admirer? Then an Omega watch is what you should wear! There are watches all around you, and if you search long enough, you’ll probably discover a brand that aligns with your interests and principles.

Additionally, a lot of businesses back environmental causes. For example, Oris is dedicated to environmental practices, supports the preservation of Lake Baikal in Russia, and makes watches out of recycled plastic. Recently, Panerai unveiled the Submersible eLAB-IDTM, which is composed of 98.6% recycled materials, while Breitling debuted an environmentally friendly watch packaging made of recycled plastic.

4. Where to Purchase

For the environment, you could choose to choose a boutique if you truly want to celebrate your first purchase. Additionally, it’s a good idea to form an early acquaintance with an official boutique if you intend to purchase other watches. If you do, you’ll probably get future invites to events, presents, and exclusive deals.

However, if you don’t want to build a relationship with a boutique, you may purchase timepieces elsewhere, including online and in thrift stores. After all, purchasing a pricey watch from the comfort of your living room might also be considered opulent. You may get a comparable quality of service and assurance from any of these alternatives, but it’s preferable, in my opinion, to go with a major, established company. It’s rather common for your first watch to end up being pre-owned. It’s similar to purchasing your first used car: you have to practice parking, have a feel for the road, pay a few penalties, and then purchase your dream vehicle later on.

5. Where to Service

Similar to autos, watches require routine maintenance. You may need to get your watch serviced every three to four years, depending on how frequently you wear it. If you purchased your watch from a boutique, they will probably handle the upkeep. A brand-certified workshop is an additional choice, and the costs there will probably be lower. The third choice is to locate a qualified watchmaker. If you don’t intend to sell your watch in the future, the latter option is wise. In such instance, you won’t require documents from an official agency and may focus on your attention to detail and presentation. You’ll also most likely save some cash. Additionally, it offers you an opportunity to learn more about the profession and the master watchmaker, since each watchmaker I know has a wealth of fascinating anecdotes to share!