The Watch

by Gene Stone

"The Watch" is a survey of the best vintage and contemporary men's wristwatches that is as visually compelling as it is informative to read.
A well-made man's wristwatch combines inspired design, technical innovation, and precise craftsmanship. Vintage watches are filled with sentiment and history, and are often passed from wrist to wrist across generations. Today, designers use cutting-edge techniques and materials to create some of the most complex miniature machines ever attempted.
Ranging from Patek Philippe and Rolex to Seiko and Swatch, and covering fifty brands in depth, the book provides essential wisdom on buying, collecting, and maintaining these timepieces. Illustrating the text are more than 500 photographs of men's watches, including remarkable details of dials and movements, selected for their beauty and diversity from collections around the world.

Genres: Nonfiction

256 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2006

About the author

A graduate of Stanford and Harvard, Gene Stone is a former Peace Corps volunteer, journalist, and book, magazine, and newspaper editor. He has also written, co-written, or ghost-written forty-five non-fiction books, including a dozen New York Times bestsellers, as well as a novel, The Awareness. His website is www.genestone.com.

Reviews

[Amar Pai · Rating 3 out of 5]

That's when I start promising the world to
A brand new girl I don't even know yet
Next thing she's wearing my Rolex

[Marilyn · Rating 2 out of 5]

pretty book. It reviews all the expensive companies that I always see adviertised in magazines. It did not explain to me how a businesss can keep selling these watches when they are so expensive and they are supposed to be so life-long heirlooms.

[Aran Chandran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good primer with photos

This book provides a really good starting point to understanding current brands and important pieces.

The photos are gorgeous and talks louder than the words.

[Toni Marić · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing and short overview of 50 most important watch brands

Best overview of the wristwach industry and most important parts and brands of it. Highly recommended for all watch enthusiasts and collectors.

[Jessedubin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is book was exactly the introduction I needed: some history, some brand info (and what makes them special), a good glossary, and a ton of beautiful photos. A perfect toe-dip into horology.

[Matt Weinstein · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful book by Hodinkee. Great info about the nuts and bolts of mechanical watches and the usual world class Hodinkee watch photography.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good

Very good read for new watch collectors. Read this first and save yourself mental anguish and money. Covers the basics in a vernacular language.

[Bevan · Rating 5 out of 5]

How to Build a Starter Watch Collection on a Budget: A Practical Guide for New Collectors

Starting a watch collection doesn't require a fortune - it requires smart choices. Whether you're drawn to classic dress pieces or sporty chronographs, a thoughtful starter collection focuses on versatility, quality, and value. Below are practical steps and insider tips that help beginners assemble an appealing, wearable assortment without overspending.

1. Define Your Core Styles

A compact starter collection usually contains 3 core types:
•Dress watch: slim profile, leather strap - ideal for formal and business wear.
•Everyday watch: versatile design, comfortable on the wrist for daily use.
•Sport/field watch or diver: rugged, water-resistant and durable for active wear.

Picking one strong example of each avoids redundancy and maximizes outfit compatibility.

2. Prioritize Movement & Build Quality

Movement (quartz vs. mechanical) and construction are the backbone of a good watch. For beginners:
•Quartz offers low cost and reliable accuracy.
•Automatic/mechanical adds charm and craftsmanship - choose well-regulated calibers if you prefer mechanical watches.
•Check case materials (stainless steel is a solid choice), crystal type (sapphire or mineral), and strap/bracelet quality.

3. How to Evaluate Replica Alternatives Sensibly

If you're exploring high-quality replicas for iconic designs, assess them like any other purchase: read detailed photos and specifications, confirm movement type, and check seller reputation and return policy. A reliable source will clearly describe materials, shipping, and post-sale support. For convenience, many collectors browse dedicated replica collections online; for example, you can review curated selections at Patek Philippe Replica to compare finishes and options before deciding.

4. Sizing & Wearability - Measure Your Wrist

Comfort is essential. Follow these quick steps:
1.Measure wrist circumference with a tape or string.
2.Consider case diameter relative to wrist size (38-40mm works well for many wrists; smaller or larger sizes may suit specific styles).
3.Check lug-to-lug length - a long lug spread can make a watch feel oversized even if the dial diameter looks appropriate.

5. Buy from Sellers with Clear Policies

Before purchasing, verify:
•Transparent return and refund policies.
•Customer reviews and independent feedback.
•Shipping time, insurance, and tracking availability.

Good after-sales support matters more than you might expect when starting a collection.

6. Care, Storage & Simple Maintenance

Small maintenance habits extend a watch's life:
•Store watches in a dry, padded box or watch roll.
•Avoid prolonged exposure to strong magnetic fields and extreme temperatures.
•Clean straps and cases gently with a soft cloth; service mechanical watches periodically.

7. Balance Passion with Practicality

Collecting is personal - mix pieces that bring you joy with a few pragmatic choices. Keep a simple records sheet for each watch (purchase date, specs, serials, service history). Over time you'll learn your tastes and build a collection that reflects both style and smart decision-making.

Quick Starter Checklist
•Decide three core styles to cover your needs.
•Choose movement type (quartz or mechanical) per watch purpose.
•Confirm seller reputation and return policy before buying.
•Measure wrist and check lug-to-lug for comfort.
•Set up proper storage and a maintenance schedule.

Starting a collection is about learning and experimenting. With careful choices and attention to details like fit, movement, and seller reliability, you can enjoy a varied, attractive assortment without overspending. Happy collecting - and remember that great style often begins with a single, well-chosen timepiece. For more insights on timeless craftsmanship, visit https://www.patekphilippereplica.io/

[Jacob · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love watches. I collect them, I research them, and as of this review I also sell them. Got this on a whim because I’m always wanting to learn more. And this book is alright. The history parts were a blast to read, wasn’t a fan of everything else. Wish it went into more discussion about the watch industry itself. Have a feeling this would make an excellent coffee table book.

[Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most competent literature I've read of its kind.

[Mariel · Rating 4 out of 5]

It bothered me that some of the watches have no crowns, but a good reference book.

[José Oliveira · Rating 4 out of 5]

A magnificent read for watch lovers

The coice of the brands that were included in this book is excelent. I always consider a watch book whenever I learn something. That’s the case.

[Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun

Great book to read for me who is new to this whole watch world. Recommended it too anyone who has any interest in watches.

[Chris Bumgardner · Rating 5 out of 5]

An awesome flyover of the history of 50 influential brands. With a delightful amount of photos. Really enjoyed working my way thru this.

[Eye Summers · Rating 5 out of 5]

thought this was a great book. simple, easy-to-read & a great book for budding collectors/n00bs. has the basic terms. not overly technical or browbeatingly historical. very very useful.

i learned a lot. a great fundament. found this randomly at the Library but i hope to pick this up as reference book. would recommend to anyone who knows nothing about watches but wants to learn basic things before beginning on their watch collecting quest.