How to choose the right skeleton watch?

Skeleton watches offer both elegance and complexity thanks to their visible mechanisms. With their undeniable charm, skeleton watches are considered luxury items, sometimes prohibitively expensive. However, developments in the watchmaking industry have made this type of watch available at affordable prices. Skeleton watches come in a wide variety of attractive models, regardless of brand and design.

When you want to buy a beautiful skeleton watch, you often wonder which one to choose and how to make the right choice. Faced with a multitude of models and options, it is essential to take certain criteria into account while remaining true to your own style. In this article, discover our guide with some tips to help you choose your skeleton watch.

The skeleton watch: what is it?

The skeleton watch stands out by showcasing its internal mechanism. This type of watch reveals part or all of its movement. It highlights the mechanical movement for an elegant and sophisticated look. The watch's moving parts are visible through the dial, the transparent back, or part of the case.

A skeleton watch allows you to admire the wheels, balance wheel, gears, bridges, plates, and cock screws. Some major watch brands still manufacture their skeleton watches by hand, which gives these watches a special authenticity. The quality of a skeleton watch is reflected in its precision, finesse, and finish.

How to choose the right skeleton watch in 5 steps?

To make the right choice, it is important to consider certain criteria such as the type of movement, the dial, the strap, the materials, the patterns, the engravings, the design, and the water resistance.

1 - Choose based on the movement of the watch

There are three types of movements for men's skeleton watches: mechanical, automatic, and quartz. You can choose your watch based on the movement, taking into account your style and preferences.

The mechanical watch must be wound manually using a crown that you must turn daily.

The automatic skeleton watch winds itself thanks to the movements of your wrist. Automatic timepieces store energy in a spring to power them. If you do not wear your watch every day, it is recommended that you use a watch winder.

Quartz skeleton watches are battery-powered and offer high precision. However, they may not offer the same aesthetic appeal as mechanical skeleton watches.

2 - Choose based on the dial

Once you have chosen the watch movement, you can focus on the most visible part of the watch: the dial. The dial of a skeleton watch can vary in terms of design and functionality. You can opt for a minimalist dial, highlighting the mechanism with simple hour markers or Roman numerals. Or you can choose a more detailed dial with additional complications such as moon phases, chronographs, or calendars.

3 - Choose based on the strap

The strap is another essential element to consider when choosing a skeleton watch. Straps can be made of steel, leather, fabric, or rubber, and each material gives the watch a different look. The choice of strap will depend on your personal style and the occasion on which you plan to wear the watch. Steel straps offer a classic and versatile look, while leather straps add a touch of elegance. Fabric or rubber straps are perfect for a more casual or sporty look.

4 - Choose based on materials, patterns, and engravings

Skeleton watches can be made from a variety of materials, such as stainless steel, gold, titanium, or even more innovative materials such as ceramic or carbon. The choice of materials will depend on your preferences in terms of style and durability.

When it comes to patterns and engravings, some skeleton watches feature additional decorations on the bridges or plates, adding an artistic dimension to the watch. Patterns and engravings can vary depending on the brand and model of the watch. Some watch enthusiasts appreciate traditional patterns such as guilloché, while others prefer more contemporary or abstract designs.

 5 - Choose based on design and water resistance

The overall design of the skeleton watch is an important factor to consider. You can choose between watches with a classic, timeless design or bolder, more modern models. The watch case comes in a variety of shapes, such as round, square, rectangular, or oval, allowing you to find a model that suits your taste.

When it comes to water resistance, it is important to check the watch's specifications. Most skeleton watches are water resistant to some degree, but they are generally not suitable for swimming or diving. Be sure to check the watch's water resistance depth if you plan to use it in wet conditions.

 

What to keep in mind when choosing a skeleton watch

In summary, choosing a skeleton watch is a matter of personal taste and style. It is important to consider criteria such as the movement, dial, strap, materials, patterns, engravings, design, and water resistance. Explore different brands, compare options, and take the time to find the skeleton watch that suits you best. Whether for a special occasion or to complete your watch collection, a skeleton watch is an elegant and sophisticated choice that is sure to turn heads.