How to Choose Your First Luxury Watch? The Complete Guide!

Intro: Discover the world of exclusive watches!

Okay, great... so you've cleared the budget to buy a luxury watch ? But which watch is it going to be?

There are so many options in the world of luxury men's watches . In addition, there are a lot of crucial aspects to consider when buying your first luxury watch. This guide will show you step by step what to consider! In addition, we will discuss the options so that you can make an informed choice!

Buying my first luxury watch? What should I look for?

Summary: What should you pay attention to?

1. Determine your own budget.
2. Choose your own watch style, i.e. what do you like? And with what objective do you buy your watch?
3. Which (luxury) brand watch would you like to have?
4. What materials should the watch be made of?
5. Choose your fit (diameter).
6. The best part: Buying your first watch!

Step 1: Determine your own budget

Buying your first luxury watch is more than just a purchase - it's a personal journey. Urban Ace's advice? Don't just look at your wallet, but also at your lifestyle, passion and purpose. But what is certainly not unimportant: your budget. Let's be honest... we all want a Rolex. But you have to be able to afford that watch. So think about it for yourself. What is my realistic budget! Look at your monthly fixed costs. How much can you really miss without disrupting your daily life? A rule of thumb: reserve a maximum of 10-15% of your annual income for a watch investment! Luxury watches vary enormously in price. For example, you have luxury watches under 1000 euros but also exclusive watches of a few million.

Step 2: Choose your own watch style!

Okay.. your budget is set. What's next. You need to determine your own style before you want to buy a watch. Ask yourself: do you often wear casual or formal clothing? For a daily, casual look, sporty models or minimalist designs are ideal. For formal occasions, you are better off choosing classic watches with a leather strap or metal case.

Why do you buy your luxury watch? For what purpose?

Ask yourself why you are buying your first luxury watch? Is it just to show off? Are you going to swim a lot with it? Then it has to be water resistant! You have to have this goal clear !

Do you want your watch to stand out?

When determining your own style, we also mean how the watch should look? Should it stand out? Or not... Do you want a watch that stands out? Then you end up with the Zephyr Royal Edition . If you prefer a more modest design, then you end up with the Enigma - Rose Gold . Below are some rules that you can adhere to when choosing your style:

Step 3: Which luxury watch brand suits you?

Choosing the right luxury watch brand starts with your personal taste and lifestyle. For lovers of sporty and robust watches, brands like TAG Heuer and Breitling are perfect. Are you looking for refinement and timeless elegance? Think Rolex or Patek Philippe . For those who love innovation and modern design, brands like Hublot and Richard Mille are a good choice. Consider your budget, style and the statement you want to make. Each brand tells a unique story and with the right watch you wear not only time, but also class on your wrist. For all well-known luxury brands, look at: well-known watch brands .

Step 4: What materials should your watch be made of?

Should your watch be mechanical, automatic or quartz?

What movement should your watch have? This also depends a bit on your budget. Because in general, mechanical and automatic watches are more expensive than quartz watches . Below are the differences:

• Mechanical watch: A mechanical watch works without a battery and is powered by a spring (the "main spring"). This spring must be wound manually. Mechanical watches are known for their craftsmanship and classic charm.
• Automatic watch: An automatic watch is a type of mechanical watch, but it winds itself by the movement of your wrist. Ideal for those who want traditional craftsmanship without having to wind it every day.
• Quartz Watch: Quartz watches are battery-powered and use a quartz crystal to measure time with extreme precision. They are reliable, low-maintenance, and often more affordable than mechanical models.

What type of glass does my watch need?

There are different types of glass on a watch. From mineral glass to sapphire glass. The best glass is sapphire glass. This is simply the most scratch-resistant and also the strongest. But often this is also more expensive... keep that in mind! For the differences in glass we refer you to our blog: Is sapphire glass the best choice? .

Step 5: What size watch do you need?

Okay, we've reached the point where we're going to measure the wrist. The important thing is that the watch fits, but that it also fits nicely. Usually, if you have a thin wrist, you won't wear a watch with a case size of 45 mm. The best thing is to look at watches with a diameter between 40 and 42 mm. But here too, the most important thing is: what you find beautiful is passive!

Your watch should fit comfortably!

Are you going to do a lot of sports? Then it is not convenient to choose a watch with a steel band but one made of silicone or rubber. Make sure the materials match your goal (step 2)!

Step 6: Finally… buying your first luxury watch!

Well, we've come to the most interesting part of this guide. Buying your first luxury watch! You've got enough money in your bank account and you've done your research. You've looked at all the brands and you've looked at what you're looking for in a watch... in short, you're ready.

Some additional tips

• Please read the reviews before purchasing.
• Buying a second-hand Rolex? Do this at an authorized dealer.
• Want to buy a real vintage model? Check the serial number if any.
• View the maintenance costs of the watch.
• Consider the resale value.
• Will my watch increase in value?
• Do I want to insure my watch?

Affordable luxury watches

Besides buying expensive watches, there are also affordable alternatives on the market. Do you want to buy an affordable luxury men's watch? Then take a look at:

View all luxury men's watches

What is a luxury watch?

Luxury watches are not only distinguished by price. But also by the materials that are used. The finish with which the watch is delivered. But a luxury watch must of course be functional and aesthetically attractive.

Are watches cheaper in Germany?

Yes, watches can be cheaper in Germany, mainly due to the lower VAT rate and competition (more competition and therefore a sharper offer). But it is important to take into account shipping costs, warranty conditions and ease of service. If you live close to the border, a day trip to Germany can be worthwhile to find a better offer, otherwise you are better off in the Netherlands. In Germany, the VAT rate is lower... namely 19%, this makes a difference if you are going to buy a luxury watch. In addition, the real German watch brands are somewhat cheaper because everything is produced locally. For example from the brand: A. Lange & Söhne.

What is the best watch brand for beginners?

The best watch brand to start with doesn't really exist. It's that simple. Because what does 'best' mean in the watch world? Yes... you have enough watch brands that are simply good. But what is important for you is to determine what your budget is. Based on that, you will look at brands. Do you want to know which brands are very well-known? Then take a look at: well-known watch brands, maybe there is a brand that you find interesting?

Looking for advice on buying a luxury watch?

Buying your first exclusive watch is always a challenge. But start with a budget. Choose your style. Explore some brands and materials. Choose your fit and buy your watch! Easier said than done :) Need some tips? Contact Urban Ace.