A Well Made Watch: 5 Things To Look For

As a private jewellery boutique, we understand the importance of a well-made watch. We also get a lot of questions about them every day. It is not just a timepiece, but a statement of style and sophistication. However, with so many brands and models available, it can be difficult to determine which watches are truly well-made. In this blog post, we will provide you with 5 ways to tell if a timepiece is well-made, disregarding the brand name on the front. 

Watch Movement

The movement of a watch is the mechanism that powers it. A well-made timepiece will have a high-quality movement that is precise and accurate. Some companies carry in-house movements. If they don't have an in-house movement, look for watches with movements made by reputable manufacturers such as ETA, Sellita, or Miyota. These movements are known for their reliability and accuracy. These movements can be either quartz or mechanical. Quartz movements are battery-powered and are known for their accuracy and low maintenance. Mechanical movements, on the other hand, are powered by a spring and require regular winding or wear to keep them running. Mechanical movements are further divided into two types: manual and automatic. Manual movements require daily winding, while automatic movements are self-winding and use the movement of the wearer's wrist to keep them running.123

Materials

The materials used in a timepiece can also indicate its quality. A well-made watch will use high-quality materials such as sapphire crystal, stainless steel, or titanium. These materials are durable and resistant to scratches and wear. The materials used in a watch can also indicate its quality. Sapphire crystal is highly scratch-resistant and is often used in high-end watches. Stainless steel is durable and resistant to corrosion, while titanium is lightweight and hypoallergenic. Some brands also use precious metals in their manufacturing like gold or platinum. Lesser crafted timepieces may use materials such as mineral crystal or plastic, which are less durable and scratch-resistant. 41.

Watch Finishing

The finishing of a timepiece refers to the attention to detail in its design and construction. A well-made watch will have a high level of finishing, with smooth edges, polished surfaces, and consistent coloring. Look for pieces with clean and precise finishing, as this indicates a high level of craftsmanship. The finishing of a watch refers to the attention to detail in its design and construction. The finishing can be seen in the details such as the hands, markers, and dial.41.

Weight

The weight of a watch can also indicate its quality. A well-made watch will have a solid and substantial feel, without being too heavy or bulky. Look for watches that feel balanced and comfortable on your wrist, as this indicates a well-designed and well-made timepiece. The weight of a watch is determined by the materials used in its construction. Weight and materials generally go hand in hand, as materials used are typically a significant factor in the weight of a piece.

Timepiece Functionality

Finally, the functionality of a timepiece is also an important factor in determining its quality. A well-made watch will sometimes have a range of useful features such as a date display, stopwatch functionality, a tachymetre, or calendar. Look for watches with clear and easy-to-read displays, as well as intuitive and easy-to-use functions.41

In conclusion, a well-made watch is a combination of precision, durability, and style. By looking for these 5 key factors, you can determine whether a watch is truly well-made, regardless of the brand name on the front. Remember to choose a watch that suits your personal style and needs, and you will have a timepiece that will last for years to come. If you're looking to book an appointment to see a watch, or discuss your next timepiece, you can click here! If you're looking for more information, we have plenty more blogs for you here.