A small history of watches and a few advices for purchasing the perfect watch. Black Bay P01, 42mm satin-finish steel case, brown leather, rubber and steel hybrid strap. Based on a 1967 prototype watch for US Navy divers codenamed the “Commando” which was not accepted into service, Tudor has now raided its archives to expand its ultra-successful Black Bay range with this unusual tool watch based upon that blueprint. Uniquely built for the world aquatic where underwater and surface exploration merge, the hefty P01 is rated waterproof to 200m while its bi-directional bezel is marked off in hours for navigating sailors to time their chart courses. The crown being set lower at 4 o’clock offers it protection from the rough stuff under or above the waves, but the watch’s most notable feature is the hinged end link system on the leather-rubber strap which locks into the bezel’s teeth to prevent accidental movement from bashes and knocks. If extreme water sports are your thing, this is your watch.

Let’s move on to the under 1000 USD category. Though any number of great Timexes could’ve made this list, we’re particualrly enamored with the newly reissued MK1 — a recreation (of sorts) of a short-lived 1980s military-issue watch. While the original was meant to be disposable and had a mechanical movement inside and a plastic case protecting it, this version swaps both with a more reliable quartz engine and a higher-quality case made from anodized aluminum. A direct descendant of the original G-Shock from 1983, the modern G5600 version and similar watches are as tough as ever. For under $100 you get some nearly indestructible wrist gear that is more accurate than any luxury mechanical watch, and no need for battery changes with solar power. Just make sure you get one that says “Tough Solar” on it, and has a positive display for the best legibility. Further, G-Shocks are just fun, unpretentious, hassle-free, and extremely comfortable to wear.

TAG Heuer, founded in 1860 by Edouard Heuer in St-Imier, Switzerland, and long a favorite of motorsports enthusiasts, is a name that commands instant respect in every watch-loving quarter. Only occasionally are any of their pieces attainable under the £1K mark — and when they are, you should definitely drop the coin. With a rubber strap and stainless steel case, this watch is ideal for rugged adventures. While it is not suited for scuba diving, it is capable of withstanding up to 660 ft of water. In addition, the iconic Formula 1 model has the distinction of having been worn by actual Formula 1 drivers. An updated pilot watch is a sharp style that adds something interesting to any watch collection, thanks to its intricate looking chronographs and large numbers you can read at the quickest of glances. Alpina is known for its pilot watches and movements, so if you are looking for one under £1,000, this is the brand to beat. This clean timepiece on a stainless steel bracelet also looks great with a T-shirt and jeans since it has been designed with the modern man’s movements in mind.

WatchNerd is your go-to virtual “watch guy.” He has all the latest information about the best luxury watches and will give you his honest opinion without any gimmicks. He has nothing to win or lose from you buying any particular watch, and is only interested in helping you find a watch that you love. He’s always been a super smart guy, and only makes a decision or offers advice when he’s confident he has 110% of the necessary information. However, he also genuinely cares about the advice he gives and wants to make sure he’s helpful — never overbearing or pushy. He gets his information from a wide range of sources, staying on top of the latest trends but also relying on hard numbers. He knows there’s a lot of crappy advice out there, and always triple checks his informative before giving his opinion. Read extra details on https://www.watchnerd.com/.