Watch your wrist! Funky time keepers

For some, a watch is merely a means of telling time, for others it is a status symbol, and for a few it is a truly prized possession. Whatever your take on watches, you're sure to find one that appeals to you -- they come in a range of sizes, shapes, and prices. So how do you go about picking up one that suits your purpose?
How to choose a watch: You need to be clear about why you're buying a watch, in the first place -- do you want to wear it casually, to the office, on social outings, or on formal occasions? Once your purpose is clear -- casual, corporate, formal, or party wear -- the vast ranges available will still be sufficient to make your choice difficult! These days, it's primarily the brand of a watch that dictates its market standing.
1. For work: Steel-rimmed, round-dial watches look best on men in the office, while women can go for rectangular or square dials with silver/ steel or leather straps.
2. For casual wear: Leather and other fabrics add a casual touch to your time-keeper. Unisex watches are especially 'in' these days.
3. The 'sporty' look: If you're a sporty, outdoors kind of person, you may want to spring for a watch that features a timer, and is both water- and shock-resistant. These hardy time pieces are also resistant to sweat and moisture.
4. Party/ formal: bracelet type watches on women to something jazzy in steel look good on men.
As far as trends go at the moment, gold and gold-plated watches are not very much in demand, as compared to steel and sporty-looking pieces. However, it's mainly the watches which sport big brand-names like Tag Heuer and Swatch, that people go in for."
The youth is becoming so brand-conscious, even grey-market pieces that are not purchased from authentic retail outlets, and cheap imitations of expensive makes will do for them. Just so long as your watch is branded, that's all that matters