How to Choose a Wood Watch: A Complete Buying Guide

The biggest trend in wrist watches is the wood watch. There are several companies that now offer wood watches online and in retail stores. Many of them look cool, but buyer beware! There are lots of imitators that do not sell a reliable time piece worth the investment. 

A wood watch is lighter, warmer on the skin and more distinctive than steel. Every piece of grain is different, so no two watches look exactly alike. But quality varies widely. Some brands glue a thin wood veneer over a cheap case. Others use movements that fail within a year. This guide covers the seven things to check before you buy a wooden watch, so you end up with a timepiece worth wearing for years.

1. Choose a solid wood watch, not veneer

Be sure the watch is made from solid, sustainable wood. The links on a wood watch should be carved from solid woods like maple, ili-ahi, sandalwood, purple heart or Koa. Beware of steel watches that merely have a veneer of wood glued on top. Go for a solid wood watch! 

2. Know your wood types

Each wood has its own color, grain and weight. Here is how the most common options compare:

Koa grows only in Hawaii and is prized for its figure, which is why Koa watches are often treated as collector pieces.

3. Check the movement: quartz vs. automatic

The movement is the engine of the watch, and it matters more than the wood for long-term reliability.

• Quartz runs on a battery. It is accurate, low-maintenance and affordable. Look for movements from established makers such as Citizen (Miyota) or Seiko.
• Automatic (self-winding) movements are powered by the motion of your wrist. No battery is needed, and many people love seeing the mechanism through a clear case back.

The movement should be premium quality. The best movements used in wood watches are made by a reputable watch company like Citizen. If the retailer cannot verify that their wood watches have a premium movement, choose one that does.

4. Pick a style you'll wear every day

The best wood watch is one you reach for daily. Cheap models are often bulky and clunky. A reputable maker offers a range of sizes, finishes and dial colors for men and women, from slim dress watches to sporty chronographs.

5. Look for a clear warranty

A wood watch is an investment, so buy from a company that stands behind it. A good warranty covers the movement and craftsmanship and explains how servicing works. Without one, you have nowhere to turn if the watch stops or a link cracks.

6. Make sure it fits your wrist

A well-made wood watch band is fully adjustable. Links should be removable so the watch sits snugly without sliding around your wrist. Be wary of brands that say their watches are "meant to be worn loose". It usually means the band can't be adjusted.

7. Understand water resistance

Wood watches are water resistant, not waterproof. Most can handle rain and hand washing, but they should come off before swimming, showering or hot tubs. Check the rating on the case back and follow it.

Also check the case size. Most men's wood watches run [40–46 mm] and most women's [32–38 mm].

How to care for a wood watch

A little care keeps the wood looking rich for years:

1. Wipe it with a soft, dry cloth after wearing.
2. Keep it away from water, perfume and harsh cleaners.
3. Every few months, rub in a light coat of natural oil or beeswax to restore the finish.
4. Store it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Why choose a Martin & MacArthur Koa wood watch

One of the finest companies to feature their own wood watches is Martin & MacArthur.  Martin & MacArthur is the longest-standing company in Hawaii known for its fine Koa furniture and Wood personal accessories. This company stands by their wood watches and offers over 50 different styles, including their newest self-winding, automatic wood watch made from Hawaii Koa wood. 

Be smart in choosing your wood watch and enjoy the time!