Fewer men are wearing watches nowadays, as everyone has a smartphone in their pocket. However, if you want to be a true class act, you’ll stick to the old habit of wearing your timepiece on your wrist. But what hand do you wear a watch on?
On What Hand Do You Wear a Watch?
Historically speaking, men have worn their watches on their left wrists. Though it typically comes down to personal preference, there are several reasons the left wrist is the first choice for most men.
It Is Opposite the Dominant Hand
Most men are right-hand dominant. They use their right hand to write, play sports, and complete other everyday tasks. A watch could get in the way, catch on something, and be a bother when someone uses that same hand for everything during their day. Keeping the watch on the left hand protects it from damage.
The Crown Is More Easily Accessible
The crown of your watch is the winding button you use to set the time, date, etc. On most watches, the crown is built into the right side of the face. When worn on the left wrist, it’s easy to reach over and adjust the time with your right hand. A watch with a right-sided crown on the right wrist is awkward to reach and adjust with the left hand.
You Look More Professional
While professionalism entails much more than how someone chooses to wear a watch, men who wear their watch on the left are portrayed as more professional. This might be attributed to the customary practice of wearing a watch on the left wrist, which sets an expected standard.
Of course, your overall professionalism is not determined by how you choose to wear your watch. While it may have a psychological impact on some individuals, you can maintain a high level of professionalism even when wearing a watch on your right wrist. After all, wristwatches, in general, symbolize punctuality, which is a respected trait in professional settings.
What Are the Exceptions?
The guideline about wearing a watch on the left wrist isn’t set in stone and has its exceptions. For example, not everyone is right-hand dominant. Left-handed individuals may find that wearing a watch on their left wrist is inconvenient and obstructs their movements. In the worst-case scenario, it could potentially lead to damaging the watch.
However, there are watches with a crown on the left side. These timepieces are commonly called “destro” watches. They are made specifically for left-handers, making it more convenient to wear and adjust the watch when worn on the right wrist. Wearing a destro watch on the left wrist would still be just as awkward to adjust as wearing a regular watch on the right wrist.
How Do You Properly Wear a Watch?
When choosing which wrist to wear your watch on, it’s less about the specific wrist and more about wearing it properly. There are a handful of guidelines to be aware of.
Place the Watch on the Ulna Bone
The ulna is the innermost bone of the forearm. When a watch sits there, the bone holds it in place, making it less likely for the watch to move up or down your arm.
Be Aware of How You Tighten the Watch
You want your wrist to feel comfortable. Don’t tighten the watch so much that it leaves an indentation, and don’t loosen it so that it slides up and down your arm more than one inch in either direction.
Purchase the Correct Size
Choosing the right watch size is a matter of perspective and proportion. A watch with a bigger face is meant for someone with a bigger arm, while a watch with a smaller face tends to be more visually appealing for those with smaller arms or wrists.
Wear the Watch Face-Up
Don’t be one of those people who try to do things differently by wearing your watch upside down. The face of your watch should be on top of your wrist, not the underside. This approach not only appears more professional, but it’s also more convenient when you need to quickly check the time.
What Are Some General Guidelines for Wearing a Watch?
Regardless of which hand you decide to wear your watch on, there are some guidelines when it comes to choosing the watch itself. As you plan your outfit for the occasion, follow these tips to be sure you always look your best.
The Formality of the Event
If you are attending a black-tie event, you want to wear a dressy, sleek watch. Choose a timepiece featuring either no numbers or elegant Roman numerals to add a touch of sophistication to your ensemble. Pair it with a simple black leather band for the perfect finishing touch.
But if your plans involve a more casual setting like a BBQ or a hunting trip, go for a rugged field watch equipped with as many gadgets as possible. This choice perfectly complements the outdoor, adventurous vibe.
The Band Material
Consider the other accessories you are wearing and match the material of your watch band to those. For example, if you have silver cuff links and a belt buckle, you want to go with a silver metal watch band. If you are wearing a casual outfit with brown leather boots and a belt, a brown leather watch band would be the best choice.
What Hand Do You Wear a Watch on When All Is Said and Done?
Dominant hands, crown positions and style roles aside, the only thing that really matters is your preference when it comes to which hand to wear a watch on. Wear it on your left wrist for a few days to see how convenient and comfortable it is. Switch it to the right side for a few more days and see how you feel about it. After doing this, you’ll have your own answer to the question, “What hand do you wear a watch on?” To learn the art of elevating your look, dive into our style guidelines and discover how to accessorize with gear that’s both manly and classy.