The Sharp Guide to Getting the Right Watch Now

Sharp Staff September 18, 2018

Hudson’s Bay & Sharp

Lots of things in our lives tell time, but how many have the power to inspire? The product of centuries of innovation and exploration, a watch tells the story of human achievement with every sweep of its hands. It tells time too, of course, but that’s only the beginning.

Whether you’re considering your first watch, upgrading, or adding to a growing collection, we’ve taken decades of watch knowledge and condensed it into this indispensable guide for finding the right piece of wristwear at Hudson’s Bay.

These Are 2018’s Best Watches (So Far)

Victorinox Alliance Chronograph

A high-grade stainless-steel case protects the Swiss movement within the Alliance Chronograph, while day and date indicators add refinement to the dial.

$650

Rado True Automatic Open Heart

The True Automatic Open Heart wears its complex innards on its sleeve, with an automatic movement visible through a translucent face.

$2,500

Hamilton Khaki X-Wind Auto Chrono

The Hamilton Khaki X-Wind Auto Chrono assures a smooth flight with its built-in drift-angle calculator, a traditional cockpit tool for determining crosswinds.

$1 ,850

Tissot V8 Swissmatic

As its name suggests, the design of the V8 Swissmatic is inspired by the golden age of motorsports. Driving gloves not included.

$550

Movado Heritage Series Calendoplan S

With its cognac leather strap and gold-toned accents, the Heritage Series Calendoplan S is perfect for almost any occasion.

$995

Raymond Weil Freelancer

The combination of a matte black case and rose-tone accents gives the Freelancer a look that’s equal parts attitude and refinement.

$3,050

HOW TO TELL TIMEPIECES: A GLOSSARY

1. Dial

Also known as your watch’s face, the dial is where the hour, minute, and second markers are usually displayed.

2. Crown

This rotating knob allows you to wind your watch, as well as set the time and date.

3. Bracelet

Composed of connected links and made of a rigid material like steel, gold, or ceramic, the bracelet is what keeps the watch securely on your wrist.

4. Pushers

Usually found on chronograph watches, pushers are the buttons on either side of the crown used to start, stop, and reset a stopwatch.

5. Balance Wheel

The beating heart of every mechanical watch, the balance wheel constantly rotates back and forth, setting the tempo for the rest of the movement.

6. Chronograph

One of the most popular complications in watchmaking, a chronograph is a stopwatch function that allows for precise calculation of minutes and seconds.

7. Skeleton Dial

By doing away with a traditional watch face, this feature allows you to see your watch’s complex mechanical movement in action.