The ultimate guide to watches

At one time, watches were about nothing more than function – a convenient way to tell time. These days, there are plenty of ways to tell time, yet watches remain as popular as ever. Why? Simple – they are still convenient, but they also add an element of style that can’t be found with any other accessory. If you want to look great and feel confident, add a stylish watch to your collection.

Start with the basics

As you start to shop for watches, it’s smart to think about the basics. After all, there is an incredible number of options available today, so just entering ‘watches’ in your favorite search engine is going to return too many results to wrap your head around.

Do you want an analog or digital display? Are you looking for a high-end, luxury model, or something more affordable? Are you interested in a smartwatch to pair with your phone? Before you even think about shopping, take a moment to narrow down the possibilities.

How Much Does a New Watch Cost?

The simple answer here is that a new watch can cost virtually any price that you would like to pay. You can find a very basic model for just a few dollars – or you can spend literally millions. Obviously, a budget watch won’t look anything like a luxe model from one of the world’s best brands, but you get the idea. Along with thinking about what kind of watch you would like to purchase, you should also start out with a budget in mind to make it easier to find a winner.

Digital vs. Analog debate

An analog watch is a model with two hands that make their way around the face to display the time. By checking the position of the hour hand and the minute hand, you’ll quickly know what time it is. This system has worked beautifully for centuries, and nearly all of the world’s luxury watches feature this design.

With that said, you may find a digital watch to be a better fit for your needs. With this model, the time is displayed in numerical format right across the face of the watch. In this way, it’s like checking the time on your phone – you just read the numbers and move on. Most digital watches are designed for those who live an active, outdoor lifestyle. They tend to be more affordable and built for function rather than style.

Extra features

You already know that the main function of a watch is to tell time. With the rise of hybrid watches and smart watches there are actually a few other features you might want to look for, depending on your needs. 

Date. Many watches will have a small window on the face where the date can be displayed. This may be handy if you regularly need to check the date for work purposes and don’t want to be constantly pulling your phone out of your pocket.

Stopwatch. This is a feature you are more likely to find on a digital model than an analog version. If you have a need for the stopwatch function, looking for a watch that can offer you that benefit would be smart.

Alarm. Another potentially handy feature is an alarm. Even if you don’t use your watch alarm to get you out of bed in the morning, it may come in handy in your day to day life to get your attention at certain times of the day.

Outdoor exploration functions. Some watches are designed for serious outdoors adventuring, and such models will include elements like the ability to track elevation, humidity, temperature, and more. These are not features that will be needed by most people, but some will find them essential.

Turning to a smart watch

Ready to bring a whole world of modern technology to your wrist? You can do so simply by purchasing a smart watch. The Apple Watch is the dominant product in this market, of course, but you will need to own an iPhone to make it work. Otherwise, you’ll want to turn to one of the other smartwatch models made by a variety of manufacturers.

The advantages of a smart watch are many. For starters, these watches can do everything you would expect from a standard watch, such as displaying the time, date, etc. From there, they just get better. Depending on the model you choose, features available may include –

Messaging. Sending and receiving text messages right from your wrist, without even taking your phone out of your pocket.

Answer questions. You may be able to use your voice to ask simple questions of your watch. As long as you have a data connection available, you should receive an answer quickly.

Fitness tracking. A good smart watch can also serve as a fitness tracker. Like to run or bike outdoors for exercise? Use your new watch to keep track of your progress.

Listen to music. This feature can go right along with the fitness uses for a smart watch, as you may choose to listen to some of your favourite tunes while getting your exercise in for the day.

Make your own choice

There are far too many watches available to let anyone else dictate which one you should buy. Is a luxury model with a beautiful leather band and complicated mechanical workings the right pick? Maybe – or maybe not. Don’t pick a watch just because someone else thinks it is great, or because it comes from a brand with a high-end reputation.

Instead, pick a watch that you love. You might love the way it looks, or the functions it provides. Or, you might not even know what it is that you love – but you just can’t take your eyes off it each time you see it online or in the store.

Once you have found the perfect watch, let humm help you make it your own. With our no-interest financing and simple approval process, you can buy with humm right away. Instead of waiting weeks or months to save up the money necessary to buy your new watch, make the purchase today and pay it off as you go. Without any interest charges to add to the price, you’ll get the same great deal now that you would get in the future – but you get to own the watch right away.

FAQ Section

How do I pick the right watch size?

The best way to find the right watch size is to try on a few options in person. Even if you eventually buy online, try on some watches and see what you like and what you don’t. Some people like smaller watches, while others like a watch face as big as their arm. It’s all up to you!

Do watches need to be serviced?

Yes, most watches will need service at some point. Fortunately, a good watch is largely maintenance-free, so the need for service should only come up on a rare occasion.

Are watches waterproof?

That depends on the watch you purchase. When you receive your new watch, check the specs included in the package for waterproof information. Some models are not waterproof, while others are safe to use up to a certain depth.

Which is better – a quartz watch, or a mechanical watch?

There isn’t a right or wrong here – it’s more a matter of personal preference. A quartz watch will be extremely accurate and likely more affordable than a mechanical model. On the other hand, many mechanical models are prized for their elegance and luxurious look. Keep your budget in mind and pick the model that you’ll be proud to strap around your wrist.

What kind of watch strap should I choose?

Your lifestyle will tell you all you need to know about picking the right watch strap. Do you plan to wear your new watch to work in an office each day, where it will be an addition to your wardrobe? A leather strap would be perfect. For a more active, outdoor lifestyle, something less delicate will do the trick.

Can I finance the purchase of a watch?

With humm, the answer is always yes! We make financing purchases easy, whether it is a watch or any other kind of product you can think of. Not only is our financing simple, it’s interest free!