Whether you're looking for an inexpensive time-teller or a solid-gold investment, start off by strapping on our essential guide.

We understand perfectly well that the phone in your pocket tells the time. That's cool and all, but we still think you should strap on a watch. A watch is the one piece of man jewelry (yeah, we just said "man jewelry") that we can fully get behind. Not only does it punctuate an outfit; it also says something about who you are—or, at least, who you aspire to be. So forget about technological advances for a moment. Think of a watch as you would a tie: Who cares if it's not purely functional? It still plays an integral role in what it means to be a man.

But your watch doesn't need to be encrusted with diamonds, or have sixteen dials, or tell you what the surf is like in Malaysia right now. It needs to sync up with your lifestyle. In other words, are you throwing on your pinstripes and heading to the firm every morning, or are you hopping on a lift to head up the mountain? Once you answer that question, you'll have taken the most important step in deciding what kind of watch is right for you.

• Every outfit should have one timeless element, and why shouldn't that element be your timepiece?
• Come spring and summer, consider swapping out your leather or steel band for a canvas or grosgrain strap.
• A sporty watch can go with everything from a suit to jeans. A sport watch belongs in the gym.
• Yes, you can afford a gold watch. It just depends what kind of gold you want.
• Consider a vintage watch—but be sure you buy it from a reputable dealer.
• Some watches are worth passing down. But if you inherit one, don't be afraid to make it your own.
• You need to get your watch serviced every few years. It will save you money in the long run.