Luxury watches, like jewellery, were traditionally regarded as gifts.

To the uninitiated, the world of watches can be intimidating. Balance wheels, escapements, lugs, and tourbillons are just a few of the perplexing watch geek terms that will throw you for a loop if you're new to the game. But don't be put off. This is a world that will reward your time (pardon the pun), and Vogue is here to help you choose the perfect timepiece for you.

Luxury watches, like jewellery, were traditionally regarded as gifts. Not any longer. More women than ever before are purchasing their own, whether to commemorate a birthday, a promotion, or simply for fun.

For a long time, watches for women were an afterthought in a male-dominated market, but with more female designers and executives than ever working in the industry, that is changing. Leading watchmakers like Bulgari and Vacheron Constantin are recognising that women want more than diamonds and butterflies slapped on a man's watch. They want a timepiece that fits their lifestyle, with mechanics that are as impressive and beautiful as the case, dial, and strap.

Make a budget.
Sleek, well-designed watches can now be purchased for as little as £100 or less. If you want to treat yourself to a luxury watch, first decide how much money you want to spend and then stick to that budget. It will also help to narrow down the dizzying array of options available right away.

Conduct your research
"Today's watch buyers are more informed than ever before," says Brian Duffy, CEO of Watches of Switzerland, which sells more watches in the UK than any other retailer.

Mechanical or quartz?
The watch's engine is the movement (also known as a calibre). Quartz movements, which date back to 1969, are a relatively new invention in which the watch is powered by a battery that sends an electrical signal through a tiny quartz crystal embedded in the circuitry. While quartz watches lack the romance of mechanical counterparts, they are highly accurate and may allow you to get the design you want at a reasonable price.

A matter of life and style
Consider who you are and how you live. "Are you making a statement, or are you thinking practically?" Duffy inquires. Color, design, size, and complication options are limitless for those looking to make a statement (the extra dials and hands on a watch that might provide a date or timezone function). Maybe you're drawn to Hublot's fusion of hi-tech ceramic and artist collaborations. Or how about Cartier's distinct case shapes?

Strap or bracelet?
A strap made of leather, rubber, or even fabric is a lighter option (like the popular, often-stripy NATO strap). To maximise versatility, more watch brands than ever before are offering interchangeable watch straps that can be easily swapped out by the wearer rather than having to go in store to have it done by a professional. Cartier, Tudor, and Zenith are just a few of the brands that offer watches with a variety of strap options as standard.