3 Types of Watches Every Man Should Own

Learning about watches is one of my favorite past times. So when I save up enough to buy another watch, picking out the right one can be difficult. Each watch on my wish list has a certain feature that makes it stand out. Maybe the timepiece features a new ultra precise movement, is a re-release of a classic line, or has integrated new technology like the new breed of connected watches we have seen being released recently.

The smallest features can make a watch unique, and I'm starting to come to terms with the fact that I can't buy every single timepiece that I add to my wish list right now.

If you're like me and you can't decide on which watch to get next, you should consider if your collection includes a watch fit for every occasion. Having an appropriate watch for any event in your life will ensure that you really are dressing the part wherever life takes you. We've created a list of the three types of watch we think every man should have in his collection. Give them a read and see if you have a watch fit for every occasion:

EVERYDAY WATCH

Every man should have one watch that can be worn at all times and is appropriate for almost any occasion. This is the watch that you will always feel comfortable in and don't need to worry too much about standing the test of time.

For a watch that you will wear every day, I recommend that you pick a watch that is made out of stainless steel. Steel is very rugged and is much lighter than its precious metal counterparts as well. The lighter materials makes for a lighter watch, which will be more comfortable to wear on an every day basis.

If you plan to wear the watch a lot, you should consider getting one with an automatic movement. These watches are powered by the natural movement of your wrist, so when you're wearing your watch, you're winding it up simultaneously. A timepiece with an automatic movement will also have built in power reserves that will keep your watch operating after you have taken it off. Most power reserves are long enough for you to go a day without the watch on, but if you plan on going any longer than that you should consider investing in a watch winder.

Some of my recommendations for a great everyday watch include:

1) Breitling: Chronomat 44

SKU number: GBW3898 || Retail Price: $9,060

Almost every fan of luxury watches will know the Chronomat 44 as the flagship Breitling design. I personally like the large case which makes the watch ultra water resistant and durable, so you don't need to worry about accidental damage. The watch also comes in a few different metal options so you can find one that fits your style.

2) Tag Heuer: Carrera 1887

SKU number: GSW2706 || Retail Price: $5,050

If you're the type of person who likes to go fast, this is the watch for you. The built in tachymetre and automatic chronograph allows you to calculate the speed of your car, boat, jet, or whatever other toy you may like to take out for a spin.

OUTDOOR WATCH

Every once in a while you find yourself in a situation where you want to wear a watch but don't want to risk wearing your everyday timepiece. When these situations occur, you'll be glad to have an outdoor watch.

Shopping for an outdoor watch is all about finding the right watch for your specific needs. If you know that you will be doing a lot of one particular outdoor activity, get a watch that is tailored towards the sport. For example if you're an avid scuba diver, you should get a watch that is highly water resistant.

Some great features to look for in outdoor watches include: a light weight build, allowing a full range of motion in your wrist, interchangeable metal and canvas straps, a back lit dial, an emergency transmitter, water resistance, shock resistance, extreme temperature resistance, pressure resistance.

Some of my recommendations for a great outdoor watch include:

1) Tudor: Heritage Ranger

SKU number: GSW2806 || Retail Price: $2,825

The Heritage Ranger is a re-release of the original Tudor Ranger that was used by dog sledders to explore the frozen North. As you can see in the photos above, this watch doesn't waste any space on fluff. The watch comes with 3 strap options and one camouflage canvas strap. For an outdoor watch, I personally like the look of the Bund strap (pictured on the left above) but there are also a more classic leather strap and steel bracelet to choose from.

2) Victorinox Swiss Army: I.N.O.X.

SKU number: GSW2861 || Retail Price: $525

The I.N.O.X. may be the most rugged watch on the market today. The watch has been designed to be highly water resistant, shock resistant, pressure resistant, and survive extreme temperatures. So, no matter what situation you find yourself in, the I.N.O.X is sure to survive it. In fact, the watch is so rugged that Victorinox has partnered with the Fire Department of New York to provide rugged and reliable timepieces to those who need it most.

FORMAL WATCH

When you have a formal event to attend, having a dressy watch will help to set you apart from the rest of the crowd. You don't need to worry about avoiding precious metals or luxury straps when picking out a formal watch, and in my opinion, the nicer you get, the better. My advice when picking out the materials in your watch is to keep in mind how it will look with any existing accessories that you like to wear. Maybe you have yellow gold cuff links and a nice black leather belt that you wear when you dress up. Well then a yellow gold watch with a black leather strap would complement your outfit well.

There is no one category that your formal watch needs to fall into. I think that the most important thing is just finding a timepiece that you love and can talk about passionately. One particular look that I like is wearing a vintage or antique watch as a formal watch. This will give you a unique look that is sure to be unique, plus it has an interesting back story for anyone curious about the watch.

Some of my recommendations for a great formal watch include:

1) Breitling: Navitimer 01

SKU number: GGW0355 || Retail Price: $23,140

Big faced watches are really popular right now, and this one is sure to get some attention. With a 43 mm red gold case, its almost impossible to miss the Navitimer 01 when it enters a room.

2) Longines: La Grande Classique De Longines

SKU number: GSW2707 || Retail Price: $1,200

This watch was made to do two things: tell time and look elegant. The Grande Classique is a very slim and light weight watch that you will barely notice is on your wrist. My favorite part about this piece is the minimalist design. It allows the watch to look elegant and avoids any unnecessary distractions.