In today’s digital age where smartwatches dominate, there's an undeniable charm in the timeless craftsmanship of mechanical watches. These intricate marvels, powered by springs and gears, stand as a testament to human ingenuity. These timepieces, powered by the magic of springs and gears, offer a blend of functionality and artistry both. The mechanical watches market has grown significantly though! Selecting the ideal mechanical watch can feel like a big challenge.
Fear not, watch enthusiasts! This guide will help you with the right things to look out for in a watch! We are here to help you find the perfect mechanical companion that reflects your style and complements your life.

But, what exactly are mechanical watches?

As the name suggests a mechanical watch is quite different from your traditional watch. It involves much more complex machinery in its working. At their core, mechanical watches are self-contained marvels of engineering. Unlike a simple quartz watch relying on batteries, mechanical watches are powered by springs and gears.
Mechanical watches further fall into two main categories:

• Automatic Watches: The most popular type of convenient watch that reigns supreme with enthusiasts. These watches depend on the power generated from the wearer's movement. Through a rotor, it automatically winds the mainspring. It eliminates the need for manual intervention and any power source.
• Hand-winding Watches: A hand-winding watch offers a more intimate connection. Winding the crown becomes a daily ritual for the owner. A moment of appreciation for the intricate machinery powered by the wearer. It feels like a more dedicated commitment towards your watch. They are often sleeker due to the lack of the rotor present in the automatics.

If you’d like to know more about these 2, you can check our other blog here.

Things to look for in your next Mechanical Watch

Now that you understand the heart of your watch, let's dive into the factors that will shape your decision. These are factors that were kept in mind while designing every Argos mechanical automatic watch.

The Movements

• Swiss Movements: Known for their precision and craftsmanship. Swiss movements like ETA and Sellita are considered the industry benchmark and often the most expensive.
• Japanese Movements: They offer excellent value and reliability. Japanese movements from Seiko and Miyota are popular choices for mid-range watches. They are cheaper in comparison to Swiss counterparts.
• In-House Movements: The top tier of watchmaking craftsmanship. These movements are designed and manufactured entirely by the watch brands. This showcases their technical advancements and reliability. A prime example is the Seagull movement, a reliable and affordable automatic movement. The manufacturers can use more premium watch materials while keeping costs in check.

We at Argos use a well-tried and thoroughly tested Seagull movement to keep our costs under check and give a premium experience overall.

The Case

The case houses the movement and defines the watch's look and feel. Here are some common case materials:

• Stainless Steel: The go-to choice for its durability and affordability. Perfect for everyday wear!
• Titanium: Lightweight and scratch-resistant, ideal for active lifestyles.
• Gold & Platinum: Luxury materials for a more elegant feel, requires a bit more care.

Every Argos watch comes with a durable and quality-focused Stainless-Steel case. So, you can wear your watch every day with freedom and it's easier to maintain.

The Dial

Dials usually come in various styles and colours. Here's a quick rundown:

• Classic: Simple black or white dials for a timeless minimalist look and elegance.
• Little Fancy: Generally, consists of things like a day-date marker along with some simple yet stand-out colours.
• Unique: Fancy dials for owners who like to stand out. See-through dials, moon phase dials, or chronograph dials in all shapes sizes and colours!

The Argos Apollo III comes with simple, yet vibrant dials with luminous accents for the perfect minimalist look.

The Crystal

The crystal protects the dial. The two main choices are:

• Mineral Glass: Affordable and scratch resistant.
• Sapphire Crystal: More expensive, but most resistant to scratches.

The Argos watches come with the best of both worlds. A sapphire-coated high dome mineral crystal for a balanced mix of utility and sturdiness.

The Strap

The strap secures the watch to your wrist and adds a touch of personality. Popular options include:

• Leather: Classic and comfortable but might need some care.
• Metal: Sturdy and durable, practical for everyday wear.
• Silicon: Ideal for active lifestyles.

All Argos watches come with a choice of either a premium Italian suede leather or a stainless-steel bracelet. You can choose to buy either of the two as a separate accessory.

Water Resistance

This is how well your watch handles water. Here's a basic idea:

• 30 meters: Splashes are no problem.
• 100 meters: Go for a swim but avoid deep diving!

All Argos watches are water resistant up to ~30 meters, good for everyday splashes and good enough for occasional adventures.

Brand Names

Brands can be a deciding factor. Here's what to consider:

• Established Brands: Renowned for quality and craftsmanship. Often comes with a steeper price tag.
• Lesser-Known Brands: May offer good quality at a more affordable price. (Do your research to find hidden gems like Argos) 

Your Perfect Mechanical Watch

Remember, the best mechanical watch is the one that resonates with you. Here are some final tips:

• Set a Budget: Mechanical watches range from affordable to eight figures or even more. Decide how much you're comfortable spending on your next watch!
• Lifestyle: Do you need a rugged sports watch or a sophisticated watch for formal events? Choose a watch that complements your needs.

Finding the perfect mechanical watch is a journey itself. Don't be afraid to browse online and make a list of your favorites. The reward? A watch that will become your companion. At Argos, we make automatic watches that reflect your personality. Our watches being sober and sophisticated add a touch of timeless elegance to your life.

Enjoy the search for your perfect mechanical match! Check out Argos Watches here.