About Time: 8 Best Everyday Carry Watches
While some might say that wristwatches are, in the age of computer technology, somewhat antiquated devices, we tend to feel differently. Watches - like clocks - are nothing shy of magnificent. They are simultaneously a reflection of their maker's talents and the exemplification of human achievement on the whole. And we believe that wearing one is the mark of a sophisticated man.
But they aren't just beautiful accessories; they're also incredibly useful. Whereas a smartphone will certainly die in a day or two without access to a charger, even battery-powered watches will last through years of constant operation. And, depending upon the watch, they can also be fitted with more than just basic clock functions. Some act as stopwatches, timers, or can tell you what day and date it is. And they're not relegated to standard time, either; there are 24-hour options, if military time is more your style.
We stand by the belief that all everyday carry fans should own at least one watch - and use it frequently. We also understand that needs differ from person to person. A guy that spends his time traversing the city streets isn't necessarily going to need a super durable hardened field watch - although he might want one. In any case, we've rounded up the eight best everyday carry watches that we have to offer in the following collection. So, if you don't already own a watch, isn't it about time you got one?
Leather Timex Weekender Chronograph
Don't let their low price fool you, Timex makes some very good watches. This one, for example, features a stainless steel case with a cobalt-colored dial and is a fully-functioning chronograph. That means that it not only tells the time, but it has a stopwatch function, as well. It also features a handy date window. But, best of all, this one comes with a superb Horween leather band that is both handsome and durable - giving this watch the kind of versatility that lends it to everyday use, while still being classy enough for formal wear.
Techne Instruments 245 Merlin
Inspired by the kinds of watches American soldiers wore during WWI, this field watch from Techne Instruments features timeless styling that is tough and durable, but also looks quite good. The brushed 316L stainless steel case and double-curved mineral crystal house a reliable Japanese Miyota 1L45 quartz movement. It also features a hack feature, which allows the user to manually stop the movement of the watch - something that is especially effective for synchronization. It's also water resistant up to 50 meters, so you don't have to worry about it getting a bit wet.
Jack Mason A101 Aviator
One of the most classic examples of men's wristwatches is the aviator. This one, from Dallas-based brand Jack Mason, was inspired by the instrument gauges mounted in the cockpit of an aircraft. The 42 millimeter brushed stainless steel case paired with an understated brown Italian leather band makes for a striking and unified look that's as appropriate for a night out as it is for, say, actually flying a plane. It also features Super Luminova markings on its 3 hands for easy reading in low-light, water resistance to 100 meters, and weighs just 2.5 ounces total.
Tsovet SVT-CN38
Tsovet is a brand that thrives on the boldness of their style and this offering is no exception. With cues taken from the 1940s California modern contemporary design movement, this gorgeous watch is crafted with a 316L stainless steel case that's paired with a stitched leather band. And the minimalist dial, which is viewed through a hardened mineral crystal window, is powered by a reliable and accurate Swiss quartz Ronda 513.1 movement. While this watch isn't encumbered with all the bells and whistles of some competitors, it more than makes up for it with its clean and refined style.
Armogan Spirit Of St. Louis
Charles Lindbergh make the first successful transatlantic flight, from New York to Paris, in 1927. And he did so aboard his custom-built aircraft, the Spirit of St. Louis. And it is from this plane and the vintage styling of the 1920s that this chronograph draws its design inspiration. Although the combination of its case, dial, and soft suede leather strap is certainly striking in its beauty, this watch is no less functional. A Miyota 0S00 Japanese movement powers its chronograph functions. It's also got a battery life of up to 5 years, 50 meter water resistance, and a curved mineral glass window.
Jack Mason A102 Aviator Chronograph
A little more on the tactical end of the spectrum than many of its brethren, this Jack Mason watch is no less a handsome one. A Japanese quartz movement powers its chronograph functions and is housed within a PVD - short for Physical Vapor Deposition - coated stainless steel case. Paired with a comfortable black nylon band, this watch is perfect for the man that likes to keep his carry stealthy. But the Super Luminova hands ensure that it is easy to read in any light.
Tsovet SVT-FW44
While there are plenty of watch brands trying to slim down their timepiece's cases - which, by extension, can make them a bit more delicate - Tsovet has taken the opposite approach with this one. This beefy watch is, arguably, the toughest that the brand has ever made. The thick stainless steel case is paired with a durable leather band and the dial is viewed through a hardened mineral crystal. And the whole hefty package is powered by a reliable Swiss quartz Ronda 513.1 movement. If you want something that's as rugged as it looks, go no further.
Lum-Tec Combat B28 Military 24H
For anyone with a military background, it doesn't get much better than Lum-Tec's Combat B28 24-hour watch. Not only does it tell the time in 24-hour increments, but it's 316L stainless steel case is deceptively lightweight while still being incredibly durable. The dial also features the brand's exclusive MDV technology applied to the hour markings and 3 hands, making them visible in all light conditions. It also comes with both black and green nylon straps and appropriate hardware, features an anti-reflective sapphire crystal, and is water resistant up to 200 meters. But they've only made 100 of them so, if you're in need of a tactical military-style watch and only the best will do, you'd better act quickly.
