How to Choose a Watch

By REI staff

In This Article

• Types of Watches
• Features of Multifunction Watches

When it comes to choosing a watch, your options range from the simple, precise models that just tell the time to complex mini-computers. Here's how to sort through the wide selection to find the best style for you.

Types of Watches

• Casual watches—These watches are designed to look nice enough for everyday wear. Less technical-looking than multifunction watches, many come with stainless-steel or leather wrist bands. However, these watches are still rugged enough to handle some abuse. Additional features include day/date, illumination, alarms, analog/digital options and water-resistance. Some even have pre-programmed tidal information. Best for: those wanting a rugged watch for everyday wear.
• Altimeters—Watches equipped with altimeter functions can deliver measurements as accurate as full-size altimeters. Digital altimeters (like the kind found on watches) are highly sensitive, even more so than stand-alone analog altimeters. Their sensitivity can provide more accurate readings, but those readings can fluctuate more when conditions change. Altimeters are influenced by barometric pressure, so if you are sitting in a room and someone opens the door, the reading on a digital altimeter may change. In mountaineering, where altimeters are constantly recalibrated at known elevations, these fluctuations (typically of 4 to 5 percent) are usually of little consequence. Best for: skiers and climbers.
• Heart Rate Monitors—Most heart rate monitors can also be used as regular watches. As you go up in price, you'll find an increasing range of features, including day/date, illumination, alarms, stopwatch functions, calorie counters and automatic intensity guidelines. Most are water-resistant. Best for: fitness enthusiasts and those training for athletic events.
• Multifunction watches—These durable watches are great for an active lifestyle. They're usually water-resistant, scratch-resistant and have durable Velcro® /nylon or polyurethane bands. They also have a seemingly vast array of functions. Best for: those who participate in a range of activities.

Features of Multifunction Watches

• Typical Features: Day/date, alarm, illumination, countdown timer, lap memory and chronograph.
• Wrist Bands: Some watches (such as a few Nike models) have integral bands so you don't have to worry about breaking or loosing watch pins, or are ergonomically contoured to avoid rubbing on your wrist. Others, such as some Timex models, have a Velcro® strap for a more precise fit.
• For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Look for models with extra features such as a built-in compass.
• For Runners and Triathletes: Look for a large display and easy-to-push buttons.
• For Those Who Do Ocean Sports: Look for a watch with pre-programmed tidal information.

Back to Top