Despite the emergence of smartphones and other timepieces, classy and fashionable watches have stood the test of time. They are great accessories for people who want to look more reliable, organized, and professional. If you are looking for the best watch for an architect, we have compiled a list of five models any architect can wear.
But, before you get any watch, it is good to understand what architecture is and the role of an architect. Architecture is the art and science of imagining, designing, and building structures, which defines what an architect does; designing and building structures. Therefore, the best watch will convey the architect's creative style.
Does An Architect Need a Watch?
Image Credits: watchesbysjx.com
One of the construction world's biggest challenges is schedule overruns. And according to a study by the International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET), poor planning of construction projects is a major cause of time overruns. To guarantee better project planning as an architect, you need to remain timely, which is why you need a good timepiece.
There are many reasons you need the perfect watch more than other timepieces like smartphones. Some of the benefits of wearing a watch for an architect are that it is convenient, stylish, professional, and functional.
When buying the best watch, look at the watch design to determine its suitability for an architect's life. For example, wristwatches are always more functional and convenient than pocket watches. In addition, watch designs, including a chronograph and multiple time zone features, are great if you are an international architect. You might also fancy a watch with GPS tracking and long battery life if you frequently travel for work.
Not sure which watch to go for? Not to worry, we tested different watches and found the following five most suitable for an architect. Read on as we share our experience to help you make an informed decision.
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1. Best Overall: Cronometrics L14 Unisex Architect’s Watch
We understand that an architect is guided by exquisite design and excellence. These are two characteristics we were looking for in the best watch for an architect. So, we settled for this Cronometrics watch that is specifically designed for an architect.
This watch uses the highly accurate Japanese Miyota quartz movement housed in a 316 L Stainless steel case. The 4.20 cm round case comes with a 9.60 mm thickness, a feature we found makes the watch more water resistant. According to the manufacturer, the watch has a water-resistant depth of 165.00 feet, a feature we know will make a difference when visiting a construction site.
Image Credits: cronometrics.com
This watch comes in a unisex brown Italian leather band size with a hook and loop enclosure. We found it easy to adjust the time using the crown, which is set at the 3 o'clock position. While affordable and available in beautiful black and brown colors, we did not like the easy-to-scratch hardened mineral crystal for an industrial design architect.
Still, this watch is one of the best fashion accessories for an architect, especially with its triangle at the center springs. This brilliant design, in its simplicity and serene abstraction, represents limitless possibilities for an architect looking to spend their time creatively.
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2. Best Minimalistic: Braun Designer Watch
- Ultra slim minimalist designer watch, 32mm stainless steel case,...
- Case diameter: 32.0mm, water resistant to 99 feet
- Japanese-quartz Movement
- Case Diameter: 32mm
- Water resistant to 30m (100ft): in general, withstands splashes...
We chose this watch because its design embodies the concept of less is more. The watch has a timeless look with minimal design elements that we found ideal for an architect and industrial designer. It comes in black and silver color options and features an adjustable stainless steel band.
Image Credits: braun-clocks.com
We bought the silver watch that comes with a silver band and white dial, giving the watch a clean look that works in any architectural setting. We found the watch easy to wear with the fold-over clasp closing mechanism.
The watch has a round shape and a mineral dial window that protects an analog display. It uses a Japanese Quartz movement housed in a stainless steel case that we found resists water damage at 100 feet. Still, it is an affordable watch, but we did not like how fast the battery drains; it might need replacing every year.
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3. Best for Men: Bulova Frank Lloyd Wright Quartz Men’s Watch
- In 1927, Wright designed a series of twelve monthly covers based...
- Leather
- Mens watch
We recommend this watch for male architects because its design takes inspiration from the works of one of the best architects of the 21st century, Frank Lloyd Wright. The watch's face design is energetic and architectural, with festive ribbons and bows abstracted to form striking geometrical shapes.
Frank Lloyd Wright practiced architecture for many years, so the Bulova watch brand dedicates a portion of this watch's purchase price to the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, which seeks to empower more young people to embrace architecture.
Image Credits: bulova.com
When testing this watch, we were impressed by the timeless 39x46mm rectangular stainless steel case that houses a 3-hand quartz movement. The movement guarantees accurate times, and this watch did not disappoint. In addition, we were also looking for a watch that could stand the test of time. We found the faceted mineral crystal on this watch satisfactory, especially because it resists scratches and water damage at 100 feet.
The watch features a 22mm wide leather band with a buckle that is easy to fasten. The adjustable band comes in men's standard size, making buying easier. This men's Bulova watch comes at an affordable price but is only available in silver-tone and black leather band colors.
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4. Best for Women: Citizen Eco-Drive Classic Quartz Women’s Watch
- Round watch featuring crystal-set bezel and mother-of-pearl dial...
- 32 mm stainless steel case with mineral dial window ; Functions :...
- Japanese quartz movement with analog display
- Stainless steel bracelet with fold-over push-button clasp with...
- Water resistant to 100 m (330 ft): In general, suitable for...
We recommend this watch from Citizen for three main reasons. It looks elegant and professional for a female architect, automatically recharges its battery with any light source, and is from a reputable brand, guaranteeing durability and value for money.
When testing the best watches for female architects, we wanted a model that marries well with any outfit for a professional setting in the office or outdoors. Luckily, this Citizen watch is round and features a mother-of-pearl dial surrounded by crystal accents, which accessorizes dresses or more formal outfits. We also found it easy to wear with the stainless steel bracelet that uses a fold-over push-button clasp to lock in a fit.
Image Credits: citizenwatch.com
Apart from appearance, we loved the Japanese Quartz movement powered by available light sources, unlike other quartz watches that use replaceable batteries. This Citizen watch uses the brand's Eco-Drive technology, drawing power from the sun, bulbs, lamps, and other artificial light sources. In addition, it stores the power in a permanently rechargeable battery, so the watch will never run out of juice.
A good watch for a female architect needs to be easy to read, and we were happy with this model. The face features hands for reading the time and date, and a mineral dial protects the mechanism. In addition, the three hands are luminous, so we found it easy to read the time in dark areas. Finally, it is an affordable, durable watch with 100m water resistance depth.
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5. Best Brand: New Rolex Explorer II Stainless Steel
Rolex is arguably the biggest timepiece brand worldwide, so we also tested this Rolex Explorer II watch. The watch is a great addition to an architect's permanent collection and is one that communicates style and confidence in the professional world. It has a certificate of authenticity and features the manufacturer's serial numbers.
This option is a premium or luxury watch that uses the mechanical self-winding automatic chronometer movement, so it will not run out of juice soon. In addition, the movement is housed in a durable brushed steel 42mm case. We loved the sturdy and classic Oyster bracelet, a Rolex brand trademark. The adjustable bracelet comes with a deployment buckle for fastening.
Image Credits: timeandtidewatches.com
As one of the most durably constructed watches we tested, we also loved the Rolex Explorer II's scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, which is the most luxurious crystal in the watch industry. Beneath the sapphire crystal lies luminescent handles and markers, which give the watch its own style.
The clean white dial is easy to read outdoors, and the watch has a GMT 2nd time zone feature which is easy to set with the screw-down crown. Despite its high cost, this watch is a perfect gift for all architects as it looks good with any outfit. In addition, it has a 100m water-resistance depth, making it ideal for visiting construction sites even when the weather is wet.
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Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Watch for an Architect
Image Credits: architizer.com
When buying the best watches for architects, you need to find the perfect balance between looking professional and getting the best value for money. If you are unsure which watch to get from our recommendations above, here are some factors to consider to narrow your search further.
a) Design
The best watch for an architect is easy to read and convenient to use. So, we recommend getting a wristwatch instead of a pocket watch because the former is easier to read without getting distracted while working. In addition, a wristwatch looks modern and is not bulky to carry around.
b) Extra Features
Before buying a watch for an architect, understand the best features that can improve productivity. For example, an architect who travels a lot will need a watch with multiple time zone and GPS support to adjust the current time automatically. The multiple time zone feature is also vital for an international architect who needs to communicate with clients in different time zones.
c) Movement
The best watch for any professional lasts many years without needing any replacements or setting adjustments. We recommend looking at how a watch is powered before settling on one. There are two types of watch movement; mechanical/automatic and quartz. The former does not use a battery, while the latter uses a battery.
Mechanical watches are considered of better quality and tend to last many years without needing replacement. In contrast, a quartz watch will need a new battery every few years. In addition, quartz watches make a tick with every second while a mechanical watch operates in silence.
Choosing between a mechanical and quartz watch depends on preference. Still, we recommend a mechanical watch for an architect who wants to look and feel stylish and confident in the workplace.
