Some of my friends never got into wearing watches. One even told me, “Why wear a watch when my phone can do it all?” And yeah, they’ve got a point - but they’re also missing something important. A watch today isn’t just a way to check the time; it’s an accessory, a statement piece. The right watch can add a finishing touch to your look and even elevate your entire outfit.
Agree with me? There’s something undeniably classy about a guy glancing at his wrist or pulling back his sleeve to check the time. It’s subtle, yet elegant. So, if you don’t own a watch yet, here’s what you should consider before buying your first one:
Go for a Metal Strap
A metal strap is a solid first watch choice because of its versatility. It fits with almost any outfit, whether you’re wearing a suit or just jeans and sneakers. Sure, some people might argue for leather strap watches, and they do have their place. But keep in mind, if it’s your first watch, leather straps can be tricky to maintain, especially in humid climates like Vietnam. If you sweat a lot, leather straps can quickly discolor, wear out, and develop a funky smell.
On the other hand, metal straps are more durable and can adapt to any style. The best color to start with? Silver - simple and classic. But hey, if you fall in love with a leather strap watch, go for it. You can always swap the strap later if needed 😉.
Stick to Simple, Minimalist Designs
For most Vietnamese wrists, a watch face size between 38-42mm works best. Anything larger might look off, like you’re wearing a kid-sized version of a grown man’s watch or channeling your inner Ben 10.
When it comes to design, simplicity is key. It’s easy to get drawn to flashy six-hand chronographs with all sorts of functions, but for your first watch, a clean, three-hand design with maybe a date feature is more than enough.
Get the Fit Right
A common mistake guys make is wearing their watches too loose, which instantly kills the look, no matter how expensive the watch is.
Here’s a quick fit test: shake your wrist. If the watch stays in place, the strap fits. If it spins around, you’ll want to remove a few links on a metal strap or punch extra holes in a leather strap to get the right fit. For leather straps, though, I’d suggest just swapping the strap instead of punching extra holes into the original.
Set a Budget
Your first watch shouldn’t break the bank. There’s no need to go all out right away - save the big investment for when you’re more confident in your taste.
If you’re looking for reliable, budget-friendly options, check out brands like Timex, Breda, Swatch, Citizen, or Seiko. These offer great quality without emptying your wallet.
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