1. Determine what you will be using the watch for, and how many watches you will have in your ownership. If you only want to have a single watch, that watch must serve in a variety of settings depending on your lifestyle and intended usage. If you intend to be buying multiple watches, you can include in your list specialty watches that are built for the activities in which you take part.

2. Mull over other features that may be of interest to you. Some types 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 certain to check the depth rating. If you are a triathelete or you take part in other timed activities, a timer will be highly desirable. If you travel often, an alarm clock is very useful, as is the ability to support several time zones. If you are picking out a watch as a fashion statement, gemstones are beautiful, although sometimes expensive, addition high-end watches.

3. Understand the mechanism of the watch in which you are interested. Almost all modern watches use a battery-powered quartz crystal to produce very accurate time. Mechanical watches use gears and springs to keep the time. While mechanical watches are charming and beautiful, they need occasional servicing. The very best watch makers build their own mechanics. More mass-produced watch manufacturers buy their mechanisms from third-parties.

4. Take a close inspection of the watch case. Most expensive watches will have a screw-on back and screw-down crown ; this results in the most protection from water and grime. Some watches include a back that affords a view of the mechanism inside the watch. Common case materials used for watches include silver and/or gold, platinum, stainless steel, and titanium. If you are desiring a durable material for your watch, stay away from gold. While it appears fashionable, it is the softest case material used.

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

6. Be sure the watch band is secure and fits well without pinching. Leather bands provide a timeless, understated look. Nylon bands are quick drying, secure, and strong. They are the best choice for sports watches, but you won't be blazing any fashion trends with one. Segmented metal bands have a clean look, a smooth feel, are one of the most popular options. They can be tough to adjust though.

7. If you are looking at a self-winding watch, take into account how often the watch will be worn. Self-winding watches do not in fact wind themselves. They make use of the movement of your body to charge their winding mechanism. If your self-winding watch will frequently spend multiple days, or weeks on a self, you will find that it will slow down and often need to be reset after sitting.