We've compiled the ultimate guide to luxury watches to give you an in-depth overview of what to consider when browsing, now we're exploring how you should go about choosing one to buy.

What are the different types of men's luxury watches?

A watch isn't just a watch, especially when it comes to luxury timepieces. Different styles can indicate whether the wearer is a modern or traditional man, and are designed to suit a whole range of occasions and dress codes.

• Diver's watch: Hardwearing and sporty, these bulky designs are intended for deep sea diving so have large faces that are easy to read in the low light that's available may metres under the surface. There's also state-of-the-art technology to help them withstand the deep-sea pressure. They're popular among sea-lovers and land-lubbers alike, though, thanks to the tough and masculine design.
• Pilot watch: The pilot watch is very popular. They were originally created as a flying aide, but as the attractive and understated design became a favourite of the average watch wearer, watch makers have focussed instead on fashion rather than function.
• Sports watch: One of the most variable watch designs, sports watches can be found to suit men of all tastes. It's often a chronograph (stopwatch function and watch combined), which in the luxury watch market usually means subdials on the watch face. They can be made from metal, leather, rubber, or a combination.
• Dress watch: For formal occasions, there's nothing better than a luxury dress watch. Designed to be eye-catching but sophisticated, dress watches for men are typically stripped back for a masculine elegance that just looks classy.

Diver's watch

Few watch designs are as classically masculine as a diver's watch. Defined by thick straps and large faces, these luxury watches are ideal for men who want a watch that demands to be noticed for all the right reasons.

The TW Steel Grandeur Diver watch is a classic example of a diver's watch that will look the part in many situations. The silver and black colouring is formal without being overly dressy, and will look great with a sharp suit. Meanwhile, the Alpina Seastrong Diver watch is a sportier take on the diver design, with a black leather strap framing the broad stainless steel case and clear face.

Pilot watch

Traditional pilot watches were originally used as flying aides, with the wider popularity coming several years after their conception. Today, some pilot watches still include features for flying, but most are designed with watch connoisseurs in mind, with beautiful detailing accentuating a clear, professional-looking face.

As you might expect from the name, the Alpina Pilot Heritage watch takes clear influence from those early pilot designs, to create a luxury timepiece that looks like a stunning piece of history. This is an ideal watch for those who love classic watch design, thanks to the early 20^th Century influenced dial, soft brown leather strap, gold colouring, and exhibition case back that lets you see the watch's inner workings.

Of course, not all pilot watches are quite so traditional. The Junghans Meister Agenda watch takes influence from traditional pilot design and recreates it in a thoroughly modern style, with a minimal face and sleek style.

Sport watch

Luxury sports watches can include a vast variety of designs and features, due to the broad definition of what a sports watch actually is. In simple terms, a sports watch should include functions that go above and beyond simply telling the time, with features typically including a stopwatch with second and millisecond measurement.

The Movado Sapphire Synergy watch is an ultra-modern interpretation of the design, with a jet-black face featuring three sub-dials and minimalist time markers creating a truly remarkable piece of timekeeping equipment.

For something a little more traditional, the Maurice Lacroix Pontos watch is a classic interpretation of a sports watch design. The stainless steel bracelet and case is flattered by the blue dial and white and blue accented sub-dials, providing accuracy across four different timekeeping disciplines.

Dress watch

Despite being one of the plainest watch designs, dress watches are typically the most formal types of luxury watches available. These are created to be worn for formal occasions, though the formality of dress watches can vary – some are ideal for wearing in an office, while others will be suitable for special occasions, such as weddings.

The Junkers Bauhaus watch is a typical example of a dress watch, with a dark leather strap and minimalist face featuring silver accents against a black background. A date function also features on the watch, but it's main appeal is its appearance not it's functions.

Designer watches are very often inspired by dress watch design, with the likes of Gucci and Emporio Armani offering a selection of attractive dress watches. These designer watches focus primarily on style and design, with a variety of materials including stainless steel and leather, used to create a handsome accessory that attracts the eye and flatters a formal ensemble.

Choosing a luxury watch for a man can feel overwhelming when you first start to browse, but understanding the different styles and trends on offer can help to narrow the field. Browse the full selection of men's watches to see all luxury watches, or take a look our other luxury watch guides.