Ceramic watches are a relatively new addition to the horological industry. They have many collectors wondering “is buying a ceramic watch worth it?” Although these watches tend to come with a fairly high price tag, they are favoured by many. When buying any kind of watch, it is always advised that a person assess their own unique requirements to ensure that the timepiece of their choosing is appropriate. Ceramic makes a great choice of material in a wristwatch for many, but may not be suited to everyone. The material has many great benefits and a very attractive finish. If you are pondering whether a ceramic watch is a right choice for you, keep reading to find out whether buying a ceramic watch is worth it.
What is Ceramic?
The kind of ceramic that is used in watches is not the kind that we tend to find in plates and other household items. It is defined as any material that is inorganic, non-metallic and solid. This vague definition gives watchmakers plenty of room to experiment with this innovative material to create new and improved versions. By combining different amounts and combinations of metals and non-metals, brands can make their own unique ceramic to give their watches an incomparable finish. Ceramic tends to be used in the case, bezel and/or bracelet of a watch to give an elegant and cohesive look.
Ceramic is used by many watch brands but tends to be found most often in the portfolios of luxury watch manufacturers. Omega was one of the first brands to use ceramic in the construction of a watch. It was featured in the Seamaster Cermet. Rado began using ceramic in 1990 with the launch of the Rado Ceramica. This was the first watch to have a ceramic case and bracelet. Rado has perfected its ceramic over the decades and now uses the material in many of its timepieces.
Why Choose Ceramic?
Ceramic is a very resistant material. It is resistant to scratching, making it a great choice in the construction of watch bezels. The bezel is one of the most vulnerable parts of a watch, so it is important that it is made from a strong material. The resistance of ceramic makes it a good choice for a watch that is likely to be worn often. The material is also impervious to UV rays. This means that the colour of ceramic will not fade after sun exposure.
Ceramic is also very light, weighing similarly to aluminium. This will mean that a ceramic watch will be comfortable and lightweight to wear on the wrist. Additionally, many people choose to wear a ceramic watch as it is considered to be hypoallergenic. However, ceramic is not the best choice for everyone. The material is known to shatter if it is allowed to fall onto a hard surface. The benefits of ceramic definitely outweigh the negatives, making it a great choice for your next timepiece.
Ceramic Watch Recommendations
RADO Captain Cook High-Tech Ceramic Blue Dial R32128202
The Rado Captain Cook is one of the brand’s most iconic timepieces. This model exhibits a semi-transparent dial so that the wearer can observe the automatic movement that powers the watch. The movement is also visible through the exhibition case back. The dial is framed by a grey high-tech ceramic case and a blue stainless steel bezel. The combination of these hard-wearing materials in complementary colours provides the watch with a long-lasting and incredibly elegant finish. The bracelet of the watch is also made from grey high-tech ceramic. The colour of the case and bracelet will not chip or fade as it is the colour of the material itself rather than a coating. This watch is water-resistant up to 300 metres, making it suitable for almost all water-based activities.
Roamer Men’s | C-Line | White Dial | White Ceramic Bracelet 657833 41 25 60
This Roamer model is an affordable way to introduce ceramic into a watch collection. Ceramic watches are normally made by luxury and high-end brands, so this model is far more budget-friendly. The white and silver colour palette provides a very chic and clean look. The white dial is adorned with silver hands and indices alongside a date display. It is protected by sapphire glass. A stainless steel case frames the dial and houses the Swiss Made quartz movement that powers the watch. This case measures 40mm to ensure the dial is easy to read. The watch is secured on the wrist using a stainless steel bracelet that features white ceramic links through the centre. These bright white ceramic links will make the watch stand out on the wrist.
Swatch Big Bold Bioceramic Colours of Nature Bioceramic Canyon SB03R100
One of Swatch’s latest creations is bioceramic. This material is a unique combination of bio-sourced plastic and ceramic. This creates a long-lasting, luxurious and affordable material. Swatch has begun using this material in many of its watch designs, including this vibrant red one. The red dial of the watch features black hands with a compass shaped second hand. The red case of the watch is made from bioceramic. The case measures 47mm in diameter to create a truly eye-catching timepiece. This material is unique to Swatch, making this timepiece a great collector’s piece. The watch is finished with a red silicone strap that perfectly matches the colour of the case. This model is powered by one of Swatch’s iconic quartz movements.
Did we answer the question “is buying a ceramic watch worth it”? Would you consider adding a ceramic watch to your collection? Let us know in the comments!
