1. Find out what you will be using the watch for, and how many watches you will own. If you simply want to have a single watch, that watch must work in a variety of conditions dependent on what you expect from the watch. If you plan on buying many watches, you can consider specialty watches that are specific to the activities in which you participate.

2. Weigh other features that may pertain to you. Some models combine both digital and analog faces on one watch. A water-resistant watch is fine for swimming and general use and can be worn in the shower. But for diving, be sure to check the depth rating. If you are a triathelete or you take part in other timed activities, a timer (often referred to as a chronograph) will be essential. If you travel frequently, an alarm clock is very handy, as is the ability to show several time zones. If you are buying a watch as a fashion statement, gemstones are an elegant, although sometimes expensive, addition high-end watches.

3. Understand the mechanics of the watch in which you are interested. Virtually all modern watches use a battery-powered quartz crystal to maintain true time. Mechanical watches use gears and springs to keep the time. While these types of watches are classic, they need occasional servicing. The very best watch makers build their own mechanics. More mass-produced watch makers acquire their mechanics from third-parties.

4. Take a close look at the watch outer casing. Most expensive watches will include a screw-on back and screw-down crown ; this gives the most protection from dirt and water. Some watches feature a display back that allows you to see the mechanism inside the watch. Common case materials used for watches include titanium, gold, silver, stainless steel, and platinum. If you are wanting a durable material for your watch, avoid gold. While gold looks posh, it is the softest case material used and most likely to be dinged up.

5. Carefully look at the crystal on the watch (this is the clear surface covering the watch face). Acrylic crystals are more cost-effective, they offer good shatter protection but they may be more easily scratched than glass. Sapphire crystals are terrific, and the most costly, option for watches. They offer superior clarity, shatter and scratch resistance.

6. Be sure the band is comfortable and secure. Leather bands provide a rugged, understated look. Nylon bands are quick drying, strong and secure. They are the best choice for sports watches, but you won't be setting any fashion trends with one. Segmented steel bands have a clean look, a good feel, are one of the most popular options. They can be awkward to adjust however.

7. If you are thinking about a self-winding watch, consider how often the watch will be worn. Self-winding watches do not really wind themselves. They work from the movement of your body to wind themselves. If your self-winding watch will frequently spend multiple days, or weeks on a self, you'll find that the mechanism will slow down and you'll have to set your watch often.