When it comes to watches, many are unaware that there is etiquette to follow. It’s not uncommon to see people wearing a completely inappropriate watch for their outfit. Knowing some of the rules of watch wearing will help you to stay ahead of the curve. Whether you have an expensive, inexpensive, formal or casual watch, here are a few tips on watch etiquette.

Watch Etiquette

Before deciding what watch you are going to wear with your outfit, it’s important to consider watch etiquette so your watch does not distract from the rest of your attire. Below are some tips to follow whenever you wear a watch.  

Which Wrist to Use

A common belief is that people should wear their watches on the non-dominant wrist. Well, there are no rules set in stone. So, don’t be afraid to wear your watch where you find it most comfortable.

Dive Watches Don’t Work with Suits

Dive watches can be rather bulky and they don’t seem to fit well under a suit jacket. As such, reserve the dive watch for casual wear. If you’re wearing a suit, pair it with a simple dress watch instead.

Beware About Checking Your Watch

A great watch is one of a man’s ultimate accessories but checking it can have some negative social implications. If you’re in a meeting, on a date or at a social event, for example, refrain from checking your watch visibly in front of other people. Checking your watch sends a message that you have more important things to do other than what you’re doing at the moment.

Pairing Watches and Outfit

Try to match the type of watch you’re wearing to the activity you’re involved in each day. If you’re not sure about your day’s activities, pair your watch with your choice of clothes. Dress watches with business wear, sports watches with athletic wear, etc.

Over the years, attitudes have changed regarding wearing watches at formal events or gatherings. Historically, wearing a watch to a black-tie event was considered impolite but the rules have softened. Today, you can wear a simple dress watch with a black dial and band if you choose.

Admire Other Men’s Watches from a Distance

The same way you would never touch another man’s Wallet, you shouldn’t expect to handle his watch. For many men, their watch is the only piece of jewelry they wear or own, and they take great pride in keeping it clean, dust free and free of fingerprints. There’s no harm in asking to see a watch, but don’t expect the owner to take it off their wrist. But if the person offers, be sure to handle it with extreme care.

Get the Right Size

Gone are the days of oversized watches. An oversized watch throws off the proportions and dwarfs your wrist. Instead of staying within a size range, opt for a watch size that doesn’t look too big, or too small, on your wrist.

Bottom Line

Other watch etiquette tips include not wearing the same watch every day, matching your metals and colors, and skipping the bling. With these tips in mind, watch wearing should be pretty straight forward.