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The designer watch industry has stood at the helm of the luxury retail category over the last decade. Where else can you pay over $10,000 for an item that essentially does the same thing as an almost identical looking $5 model at your local discount store? They may look similar from a distance (and sometimes even close-up), so what is the real difference? Let’s explore…
Timekeeping has become progressively more important in everyday life as demands on production and punctuality have increased. Since the industrial revolution there has been a shift in focus to having things happen precisely and on time. In time, wristwatches became a daily necessity.
In time, design houses began adding wristwatches to their product lines emblazoned with their brand’s distinctive name. The Swiss, traditionally renowned as watchmakers, have tended to focus on a more exclusive, elite clientele. In turn, the Japanese have built a reputation for providing mechanical and electronic workings for these watches which are both affordable and reliable.
Timepieces have been sub-divided into several distinct categories. The stopwatch is a commonly known and well-used example. Anybody who calls themselves an athlete these days can tell you their best times around the track or in a half marathon. Another group that rely very much on precision time keeping are sailors. In modern day yacht races, it is not just about the quickest time to the finish line, but also time spent on a specific course before tacking. Formula One race car drivers are often featured in television commercials wearing the latest chronometer with one-hundredth of a second accuracy capability.
When looking to buy wristwatches, consumers are often in search of a discount watch. These are usually the $5 model you find at the local five-and-dime. These are inexpensive, true, but usually are sealed to prevent battery swaps. When the battery is dead, so is the watch. These are also rather plain and boring products; they are sometimes called “disposable watches” due to their nature.
Designer watches on the other hand, are more than just a timepiece. Their functionality is not found in solely providing the owner with the accurate time of day. Rather, they also serve as a fashion statement for those lucky enough to own one. It’s akin to wearing Gucci or another famous name brand. In addition to bearing famous names, these watches are known for making their owner stand out in a crowd due to their sheer elegance. These wristwatches are usually not only made with gold or silver, but are also often admired for being adorned with a dazzling array of gemstones, often diamonds (e.g., Rolex and others).
When shopping for a designer watch, remember to compare warranty periods as part of your final decision. If buying used, do some research on the Internet to determine if the brand you are considering has a reputation for quality and longevity.
There are those who like to give someone dear a designer watch as a birthday gift, for a special event, or as part of the gift-giving during the end-of-year holidays. Such watches have gained popularity as well with bosses who present them to workers as bonuses for specific accomplishments. Regardless of the reason, a designer watch always delights its recipient, male or female. Since your time is worth so much, you might as well track it stylishly.
Explore the high-fashion and glamourous world of designer watches at The Designer Watches Superstore. We showcase hundreds of the most popular name brand wristwatches at discount watch prices. Watch our videos for demos and reviews, and read more about designer watches on our blog.
- Daniel Wright
