How to choose the right single-hand watch?

Choosing the right watch is more complicated than it seems. Between the case, the dial, the movement and the band, that's a lot of things to take into account! Well, hold on tight because today we're going to add another layer, we're talking about choosing your single-hand watch. And if there's anyone to talk to you about it, it's us, GUSTAVE & cie , because we exclusively offer single-hand collections and we've been helping our customers choose their watch since 2017.

Now that the introductions are done, let's look at some of the criteria to take into account when choosing your single-hand watch.

 

The movement of the watch, a matter of price

First of all, have a budget idea in mind because single-hand watches come in all price ranges depending on the brands and characteristics of the watch.

With the budget more or less set, let's talk about the movement of the watch because this is what will influence the price of your timepiece.

Quartz movements, which run on a battery, most often correspond to affordable watches in terms of price because their component is less sophisticated than an automatic watch. The automatic watch is therefore more expensive to produce, the movement is composed of many more parts and its assembly is more precise and expensive. This type of watch is generally more coveted by watchmaking enthusiasts because it returns to the very essence of this complex art that has spanned the ages. Also, unlike a quartz watch (which runs on a battery, remember), the automatic movement is powered by the wearer's wrist, it looks more authentic!

 

The time scale on a single-hand watch

When purchasing a single-hand watch, you must take into account the criteria of readability and precision , which will necessarily be linked to the time scale of the dial.

A single-hand watch indicates the hour and minutes simultaneously. On a 24-hour or 12-hour dial, time is divided into graduations that vary depending on the watch model. The precision of your watch therefore depends on the scale of the indexes, but be aware that with a single-hand format, you will never be 100% accurate! And yes, wearing a single-hand watch means adopting a new vision of time and no longer being to the minute.

If you are more concerned about the precision and readability of your watch, we advise you to opt for a watch with a 12-hour dial: it will most often have indexes every 5 minutes. On the contrary, a 24-hour dial will be more visually loaded because of course the 24 hours of the day will be represented there, but that is what makes it charming. Also, the indexes will probably be less precise because there are fewer of them in order to avoid further overloading the dial.

If the single-hand format doesn't scare you and you want to adopt a different philosophy of time, the 24-hour dial is your friend. If you're wary of the single-hand, it's better to go for a 12-hour dial so as not to completely disrupt your habits. In both cases, it's all a question of habit and adaptation... Everyone has their own pace!

 

Finding the ideal size for your single-hand watch

This may seem obvious to you, but you also need to consider the size of the watch. There are usually several case sizes available when buying a watch: one size for thin wrists and one size for wider wrists. Obviously there are no rules, if you prefer to wear a more discreet or more imposing watch, adapt your purchase according to your desire. In any case, it is always advisable to consult the size guide of the brand.

 

Choosing your single-hand watch: design and complications

Design is a key point in choosing a single-hand watch. Depending on your style, you can opt for different colors (silver, gold, black, etc.), finishes (brushed, polished, etc.), and case shapes (round, square, oval, etc.). Adapt your choice according to your desires and the dial colors offered. For example, dark colors and classic shapes are more suitable if you want to wear a discreet watch.

The band also plays a big role in the style of your watch and the choice is often difficult. Indeed, a multitude of leathers, canvases, meshes and materials of all kinds are available to you, so what should you choose? We advise you to set your sights on strap colors that go well with the colors you usually wear. Otherwise, base your choice on the use you will have of your watch : will you wear it daily or only on special occasions. So many criteria to take into account but your watchmaker will be able to advise you.

Changing the band can significantly change the look of your single-hand watch, which is why many brands have an interchangeable band system!

As with a classic watch, single-hand watches can also have displays: date, GMT function, moon phase, etc. It is often the little extra touch that makes the difference and can really influence the design of the watch. If you choose a watch that indicates the phase of the moon for example, there is a good chance that the design of this one is focused on a more astronomical universe.

Conclusion

Now you should see things more clearly! Finally, "taking the time" applies just as much to choosing your single-hand watch as to wearing it. All points clarified, we see that a watch is a whole and that each element has its importance. And remember that if you have trouble choosing your watch, the first impression is often the right one!