As much as a starter watch serves a functional purpose, it is also an expression of your taste, style and ambition.
A good first watch is not just an accessory – it is an emotional purchase that stays with you long after you’ve built a respectable collection. This is probably because it often symbolizes a milestone in your life, be it your graduation or first job.
When getting a watch that will venture out into the world with you, keep it simple. A timeless, classic design is versatile in that you can wear it on a regular office day, to social events, or even with weekend outfits.
Starter watches serve a foremost functional purpose, but are also an expression of individual taste, style and ambition. Here, we’ve compiled five recommendations that can get you exploring some quality collections, based on your line of work.
The Pilot - Hamilton Jazzmaster AutoChrono
With the chronograph's roots deeply embedded in WW2 aviation history, they are apt for men of the skies. This Hamilton is not only a picture of sophistication, it is also an incredibly reliable high-performance automatic chronograph (driven by enhanced H21 movement) with 60 hours power reserve. A 42mm stainless steel model with leather strap, its dial design is contemporary yet timeless. W hamilton.com
The Professional - Casio Edifice ECB-500
Whether it is in healthcare, accounting, or law, the young professional requires a savvy watch that is highly usable and reliable without compromising on bold aesthetics. A powerful analog watch with digital capabilities, this Casio Edifice allows access to times in over 300 cities worldwide thanks to the Smartphone Link (activated with a simple push of the Bluetooth SMARTConnection button where the crown typically is). The app also allows you to control up to five daily alarm settings. Tough Solar system lends to enhanced functionality, converting faint light from fluorescent lamps into ample energy for high-load functions such as Dual Dial World Time. W casio.com
The Fixer - Ball Engineer II Magneto S
Fixers are the builders and creators that use their hands as much as their wits. Young men in this profession will appreciate the durability of the Magneto S, named for its A-PROOF anti-magnetic system further strengthened by the SpringLOCK anti-shock system. The case combines stainless steel with sapphire crystal, while the black band is made of Cordura fabric (used in military wear and luggage for its resistance). 15 micro gas tubes on hour, minute, second hands and dial lets you read the watch better in the dark. W ballwatch.com
The Field Guy - Tissot Chrono XL
If your job involves a lot of time on the ground, whether in service, research or journalism, your best bet would be a sporty timepiece that combines the best of old and new. The new Tissot Chrono XL is a perfect candidate - a Swiss make that is a modern makeover of the classic chronograph. It features a large 45mm stainless steel case with black PVD coating, complemented by cream accents on the dial and leather strap with beige stitching. You'll stand out from the crowd in style, and never miss a beat on the clock. W tissotwatches.com
The Academic - Seiko Presage SARB033
Seiko has several pieces that would serve as an excellent starter, but none quite match the understated elegance of this slim, sleek Presage. Stainless steel case and bracelet shine a polished silver colour, with a minimalist black-and-silver dial incorporating jewels and batons in place of numerals. With a 50-hour power reserve, this automatic analogue also has a water resistance up to 100m. It looks and works like a classic - something intelligent young men would do well to associate with. W seiyajapan.com
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Images courtesy of respective brands.