Watch Etiquette: When (and When Not) to Wear a Timepiece

Watch Etiquette: When (and When Not) to Wear a Timepiece

We all know that we buy watches for more than just checking time. For some, they are style statements and for others, they are symbols of success. While it is true that a great watch can elevate your looks, wearing the wrong one at the wrong can be a bit of a misstep so it is better to learn some watch etiquette.

You might not be aware when it is perfectly fine to rock your favourite watch and when it might be better to leave your wrist bare, don’t worry because we got you covered.

Formal Events: Choose Wisely

We all attend a lot of formal events like weddings, black-tie events, fancy dinners, etc.

When dressing up, your watch should complement your outfit and never steal the show. It means that you shouldn’t pair something like a chunky sports watch with a tuxedo. Instead, go for a simple dress watch, preferably in good or silver.

It is bad watch etiquette to wear over-the-top watches on ultra-formal occasions. You don’t want to outshine the groom or draw side-eyes at a corporate event. Keep it elegant and simple.

Business Meetings: Make an Impression, Not a Distraction

Watches in professional settings should tell about your confidence and not how expensive your watch is. Stick to understated yet elegant watches.

If you only own flashy, oversized, loud watches, leave them at home. Invest in a good elegant stainless-steel watch for business meetings.

Formal Religious Ceremonies: Show Respect

In some cultures and religions, wearing a watch during religious ceremonies can be seen as distracting and disrespectful. It is best to take off your watch during prayers, meditation, or religious services. It is, in fact, better to not carry a watch in such a situation.

Casual Outings: Time to Have Fun

So you are going on a brunch or a coffee date or maybe a casual meetup? This is where you can let loose and show your personal style. You can style your sporty, casual or trendy watches. Whether it is a classic diver, a digital smartwatch or just a casual timepiece, have fun with your watch.

But remember that if the outing is super laid-back, don’t go for any expensive watch. Keep it casual and fun. You won’t want to worry about your watch while grabbing a burger.

Funerals and Memorial Services: A Time for Reflection, Not Distraction

Funerals are deeply personal and solemn occasions. Wearing a watch that matches your outfit can come across as insensitive. It is better to not carry a watch in a funeral or memorial service to show your respect. In moments of deep mourning, it’s often best to leave your watch at home and focus fully on being present.

The Gym: Function Over Fashion

Are you somebody who is into workouts, running, sports, etc?

A fitness watch or a sports-oriented timepiece is what you should wear to your gym. It is silly to carry a luxury or dress watch to your guy. So if you are into working out and don’t own a sports watch, invest in one.

Date Nights: Make the Right Impression

A date night is the perfect time to wear a sleek, stylish watch that shows that you pay attention to the details. Don’t wear anything too flashy or distracting that will make you look tacky and bring all the attention to your watch.

When it Doesn’t Match the Occasion

A watch can rock your outfit but if you think you don’t own a watch that goes well with the occasion, then avoid wearing a watch. For example, a rugged sports watch at a black-tie event or a luxury dress watch at the beach doesn’t make sense. Choose a watch that suits the event or skip it if nothing fits.

Traveling: Choose a Practical Companion

A watch during traveling should be comfortable and practical. A GMT or a rugged, reliable everyday watch is the ideal choice. But it is also important to know what kind of watch would be big no. Expensive watches in areas with a high risk of theft would be a bad choice. Watches that require frequent winding or heavy watches that feel uncomfortable after hours would ruin your travel. But it is necessary to carry a watch while traveling so choose wisely.

Wearing a watch isn’t just about time, it is also about knowing when to wear what. The right watch can definitely help you make the right impression but the wrong watch can feel out of place. It is always good to ask yourself before stepping out – should I wear watch for this occasion and if yes then what would be the right watch?

At Just Watches, we have a great collection of watches that will help you follow the watch etiquette properly. Visit the Just Watches online store today and check out the collection.