There is a wide variety of watch types; each one has a different level of formality and can alter an outfit all by itself. Knowing how to match a watch with your outfit begins with knowing the formality of the watch itself.
Watch Categories
The recent developments in wearable technology have allowed watchmakers to make nifty gadgets far more advanced than simple timepieces. You can make calls, track your GPS coordinates, and check your calendar through gadget watches.
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Leaving exclusive gadget watches out of the equation, there are five categories of watches that most men own:
Dress Watches – A watch with a plain white face and no complications and a black leather band is as formal as it gets. The most formal dress watches are the ones that only show hours, minutes, seconds, and maybe the date.
Diver's watches – Also referred to as a diving watch, these work/tool watches. Don't be inspired by James Bond movies and wear a divers watch with a suit. That's the equivalent of wearing a suit with work boots.
Chrono / Sports Watches – Not an authentic dress watch, but it can be quite dressy, especially in the higher brands. Sports watches are durable, sleek, and made from high-quality plastic composites. Expect compasses, odometers, altimeters, GPS technology, pulse monitors, and a range of other functions for the guy leading an active lifestyle.
Pilot or flyer watches – Featuring a simple dial design and a rather large (over 50mm) diameter, these watches are accurate and easy to read. Originally worn over the pilot's jacket – they have a large crown that you can operate while wearing gloves.
Field Watches – During World War I, the hacking character of a field watch allowed infantrymen to stop the second hand on their timepieces to synchronize their watches. Field watches are versatile timepieces that are tough enough for active duty. The simple design improves the legibility of the numerals. Typically, these watches are moderately sized, with white or green numerals against a black dial, and work on a hand-winding mechanism.
Men's watches have a specific purpose. Avoid common fashion blunders by matching your watch style with the formality of the occasion.
Black tie / White Tie – For formal events, simplicity is critical. Historically – it would be considered rude to refer to your watch at such an event. A simple dress watch in a classic style and black leather band will mute any objections from conservative observers.
Business dress – For business – go with a classic and straightforward styled gold or silver watch with a thin dial and limited or no complications. A dark conservative suit pairs best with a classic dress watch or a diver watch with a leather strap.
Business Casual – A light-colored suit with no necktie complements a high-end Chrono, pilot, or field watch.
Casual – If a watch has a metal band, it is considered less formal. A metal band is generally suitable for casual wear, while a leather band is suitable for any purpose. You can wear any of the watch categories with a combination of jeans, a chambray shirt, and dress boots. You should only wear digital watches with casual clothes or workout attire.
Sports – The strap, case, and watch dial is protected with materials that allow you to focus on the activity – no need to worry about your watch snapping off your wrist or the glass shattering mid-game.
