Whether you’ve just purchased a luxury or affordable watch, or finally acquired the timepiece you’ve been wanting, it’s important to follow certain rules while wearing it. These guidelines apply to all types of watches, be it formal or casual. Adhering to these rules will help you avoid any fashion mistakes and ensure that your watch always looks its best.
If you’re someone who loves to wear watches and wants to make sure you’re following the appropriate watch-wearing etiquette, MenstyleFashion has got you covered. They offer some practical guidelines that can help you stay up-to-date with watch fashion trends and ensure that you’re wearing your watch in a way that complements your overall look. By following their advice, you can confidently wear any watch of your choice and impress others with your refined sense of style.
1. Light watches during the day, dark watches at night
When it comes to choosing the right watch for any occasion, there is a simple yet important rule that you should keep in mind. The rule is to wear a watch with a dark dial when you are dressed in dark clothes and a watch with a light dial when you are dressed in light clothes. This means that during the day, it is best to wear a watch with a light dial such as white or cream. In contrast, during the night, it is best to wear a watch with a dark dial such as black, brown or grey. Adhering to this rule will not only simplify the process of choosing a watch but also ensure that you are appropriately dressed for the time of day and the occasion.
2. What is the right wrist?
For centuries, people have debated which wrist is the most appropriate for wearing a watch. According to tradition, the non-dominant hand is the ideal choice. This guideline is based on the reasoning that the watch will be less likely to suffer damage if it is worn on the hand that is used less frequently. This is particularly important if you own a luxury watch, which is often viewed as an investment as well as a fashion accessory. To protect your investment, it’s wise to take measures to keep your watch in pristine condition. However, it’s also acceptable to prioritize comfort over tradition and wear your watch on your dominant hand.
3. Limit checking the time on your watch
Wearing a watch involves more than just its style; it is also important to consider the etiquette of wearing it. Men who wear a watch as an accessory should be mindful of not overly admiring it as this may be seen as showy and flashy. Furthermore, constantly checking the time can be perceived as impolite or impatient, which could result in negative social implications. Being aware of how others perceive your actions and limiting how often you check your watch is crucial for appropriate watch etiquette.
4. Admire other men’s watches respectfully
A man’s watch can hold great value for him, both as a significant piece of jewellery and a potential investment. With this in mind, it is important to respect the owner’s attachment to the watch. It is not considered appropriate to approach someone and handle their watch as a means of expressing admiration. Most watch wearers take pride in keeping their watches clean and polished, so it’s best to admire them from a distance without touching them. It’s perfectly fine to appreciate a watch, but it’s important to do so without infringing on the owner’s personal space.
5. A dive watch and suit is a no go
When attending formal events that require wearing a suit, it’s recommended to wear a slim dress watch that can easily fit under the sleeve. While some people have successfully broken this rule, it’s generally not advisable unless you’re James Bond, who needs to look stylish yet be ready for any situation. However, if you’re a sports enthusiast, it’s important to leave your sports watch at home and use it only for its intended purpose – action.
6. Not too much bling
If you’re someone who enjoys wearing luxury watches, it’s important to consider the embellishments that you choose. While diamonds and jewels may seem like an attractive option, it’s important to remember that too much bling can actually detract from the overall impression you’re trying to create. In the case of a gentleman, it’s best to aim for a subtle yet impressive look that avoids drawing too much attention to any one piece. This means that diamond-encrusted watches are generally not recommended for a gentleman’s wardrobe, as they can come across as flashy and distracting, taking away from the impact of the rest of your outfit.
7. Watch should match your personality
Wearing a watch is more than just a fashion statement. It is a way to express your identity and personality through the watch you choose to wear. Your watch can indicate your status, class, and style. It is important to choose a watch that matches your personality. For example, if you are a fan of luxury, Rolex might be a suitable choice. Patek Philippe is often favoured by classy businesspeople, while vintage Casio watches are popular among trendsetting rebels. Those with self-assured leadership personalities may choose a futuristic watch, such as Hublot. It is crucial to select a watch that complements your internal and external attributes to look your best. So, take your time and make a thoughtful decision when selecting a watch.
8. Don’t go oversized
The trend of wearing oversized watches has passed and many people are glad to see it go. This style was often criticized for drawing too much attention to the wrist and disrupting the overall balance of an outfit. Although some fashion trends become timeless classics, the bulky watch is one that many have learned not to repeat.
9. Have a few watches to mix and match
It’s important to choose the right watch for different occasions just like you choose different clothes. The same watch may not be suitable for the office, gym, evening events, or dinner dates. Even if you’re not a watch enthusiast, having a collection of 2-3 watches for different occasions is advisable. Another advantage of having multiple watches is that it allows your most valuable watch to have a break, which can help it last longer and maintain its excellent condition.
10. Have matching accessories
When choosing a watch to wear for a particular event, it’s crucial to consider the overall appearance and ensure that the metals and colours of your accessories complement each other. For example, if your watch is silver, it’s advisable to select other accessories such as belt buckles, shoe buckles, rings, collar bars or pins, and cufflinks that have the same colour. Although a good watch can make a statement, your attention to detail in your entire outfit will indicate whether you know how to wear a watch appropriately.
