The jewelry most associated with a marriage proposal is undoubtedly the engagement ring. A less common and less traditional piece of jewelry used for engagements is a watch. But who wears them? What should you know when purchasing an engagement watch? Don’t worry; these questions and more will be answered below. Read on!
What are engagement watches?
Engagement watches are exactly what they sound like: a timepiece given when a couple becomes engaged. This engagement gift provides a durable and practical jewelry option. For those more likely to wear a watch than a ring or for someone for whom a watch more closely reflects their personal style, an engagement watch might be a smart move.
Engagement watches are often used for symbolic purposes, allowing the timepiece to represent the passage of time and quality time spent with a partner. The versatility of a watch allows for everyday wear, making it a practical and meaningful symbol of commitment. Watches are common gifts outside of weddings, leading many to opt for special features to make their engagement watch special. This may include an engraved message, gemstones or other customizable elements that reflect the couple’s unique love story.
Who wears an engagement watch?
“Is an engagement ring right for my partner?” You (hopefully!) know your partner better than anyone else, making you the person most likely to answer that question “correctly.” But in case you need some guidance, here are some things to consider:
- Anyone and everyone: Anybody can wear an engagement watch. Just as engagement rings are diverse, coming in different metals, shapes and settings, engagement watches are also available in many styles. As with most things fashion and jewelry related, there are really no steadfast rules. Engagement watches can be given instead of an engagement ring. Or, if a ring was given to one spouse-to-be at the time of engagement, the ring recipient may opt to give an engagement watch, giving both parties a piece of jewelry to celebrate and showcase the occasion.
- People looking for unique, meaningful alternatives: The increase in engagement watch popularity is hypothesized to have stemmed from a few noticeable shifts in consumer mindsets. For starters, there is a broader trend toward giving more personalized and meaningful gifts in general. While some opt for unique engagement ring materials or passing down sentimental heirloom pieces, others are exploring different jewelry items altogether, including watches. Studies show that women are researching and purchasing watches at a higher rate than before, likely contributing to the continued popularity of engagement watches.
- People with specific cultural or personal preferences: For some cultures, exchanging engagement watches has been a tradition for a while. In South Korea, in addition to traditional engagement rings, it is customary for couples to exchange watches, symbolizing shared time and a commitment to a future together. Additionally, this provides a beautiful alternative for couples looking for less traditional ways of marking upcoming nuptials via jewelry gifts.
Tips for shopping for an engagement watch
Purchasing engagement jewelry can be exciting and intimidating. If the watch is meant to be a surprise, make sure you give proper consideration to who is receiving it and how the piece will be worn. If the watch is not a surprise, collaborate with your partner on the watch-buying journey to ensure you get it just right. Here are a few factors to consider:
- Create a realistic budget. Another great aspect of watches is that they come in a very wide range of price points, making them quite accessible to all types of budgets. Just like you would while shopping for an engagement ring, set a budget you are comfortable with that won’t “break the bank” and stick to it. After all, it should be about your love and commitment, not the number on the price tag.
- Buy a watch that fits. Nobody wants ill-fitting jewelry. The annoyance of a watch or ring constantly wiggling and slipping off your wrist or finger is enough to drive anybody mad. Learn how a watch should fit to make sure you’re buying not only the right size band but also a properly sized watch face with a thickness appropriate for the wearer.
- Match the recipient's style or aesthetic. If you are considering purchasing a watch that symbolizes a lifetime of love and commitment, you’ll likely have a good idea of the recipient’s overall style. While it might be tempting to purchase a watch you like, make sure you’re considering when and where your future spouse will be wearing it and how they may style it into their daily look.
- Consider the watch’s versatility. There are many different types of watches to choose from. Select a watch that can be worn for both casual and formal occasions. While it’s still important to consider the wearer’s personal style, a more timeless design is often a safe bet.
- Research the watch brand and its reputation. Look for brands known for their quality craftsmanship and durability. Just as individuals might wear wedding rings regularly, an engagement watch may be worn daily, too. Purchasing a reputable brand can help ensure the watch will stand the test of time.
- Consider watch care. All jewelry requires some maintenance, from cleaning and storing to replating and changing batteries. When purchasing an engagement watch, consider any occasional or ongoing maintenance that may be required of its recipient.
Insuring your engagement watch
Whether it’s a watch or a ring being used to symbolize the commitment between you and your future spouse, it’s smart to have your valuable jewelry pieces insured. Protect your investments by obtaining personal jewelry insurance through Jewelers Mutual. It’s an affordable option that covers loss, damage, and disappearance. You can check your rate by clicking the button below.
