Choosing a watch to suit your needs is very important. Especially if you are planning on putting it through a variety of challenges. These days the material your timepiece is made of is just as important as the movement. If you’re looking for a durable, hard-wearing watch, you’ll most likely need to choose between titanium and stainless steel. Below we have compiled a quick guide on titanium vs stainless steel watches to get you started.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is an iron-based alloy with a minimum of 11% chromium content. With that being the main characteristic by which an alloy can qualify as stainless steel, the metal comes in a variety of grades which symbolize it’s other non-iron components. As a material, stainless steel is one of the primary metals used in the watch industry due to its properties. Though steel is harder and slightly stronger than stainless steel, the latter is more resistant to rusting and staining making it a way more attractive material for accessories. Other than its rust-resistance, it’s low maintenance and if slightly scratched, any imperfections can easily be buffed out. Stainless steel is also 100% recyclable.
The most common stainless steel grade is 304, followed closely by 316L. Grade 304 is more malleable and contains between 8 and 10.5% nickel, other than the iron and chromium. 316L contains 2 to 3% molybdenum which increases its corrosion resistance.
Luminox Pacific Diver | Black Dial | Stainless Steel Bracelet
Due to its 316L stainless steel case and bracelet, this Luminox model is an ideal diver’s watch. It has a sleek design. The unidirectional bezel is made of the brand’s patented CARBONOX material. The black dial is contrasted by large luminescent indices. The luminescence on the watch will last up to 25 years thanks to the Luminox Light technology. Its understated design makes this watch able to switch effortlessly between your everyday life and spending time on your favourite hobbies. The watch is water-resistant up to 20 bars or 200 metres. To guarantee its water resistance, it features a screw-in crown with a double security gasket. The watch also features a date aperture at 3 o’clock.
Rotary Mens’ Ultra Slim | Gold Plated Steel Bracelet | Silver Dial
If you’re after something more refined yet classic we would lie to suggest this vintage-inspired Rotary Ultra Slim model. Its design is reminiscent of the 80s and 90s, while still retaining an appalling timeless look. The bracelet and case are made of stainless steel and are PVD coated in yellow gold. Its flinque silver dial is contrasted by painted Roman numeral hour markers and a pair of thin black minutes and hours hands. The watch has a date aperture placed at 3 o’clock.
Titanium
Titanium has similar properties to stainless steel, which is why the choice between the two can be difficult. Titanium is one of the most commonly found elements on Earth. It is a strong and durable material. It is also considered the material with the highest strength to density. This makes titanium a very lightweight yet hard-wearing metal. Due to its chemical inertness, titanium is considered hypoallergenic and gentle on the skin. The material is also a poor heat conductor guaranteeing comfortable wear in extreme temperatures.
Certina | DS Action | Diver Powermatic 80 | Titanium |
This Certina DS Action model has a titanium 43 mm case and bracelet guaranteeing ultimate durability. Its design is sporty and masculine. The grey bezel features an engraved white minutes scale. A polished grey dial in matching to the bezel grey is complemented by large luminescent indices. A date aperture is featured at the 3 o’clock position. Traditional bulky hands complete the dial design. Protecting the dial is sapphire glass. The watch has a screw-in crown.
Citizen | Mens Eco-Drive Titanium WR50 | Black Dial |Silver Bracelet
A casual timepiece with an elegant silhouette, this Citizen Eco-Drive model still has a distinctly sporty design. The large case measures at 41 mm. The black dial is complemented by Thin rectangular indices and baton hands with a rose-gold colour. The crown and the inside of the bezel are also in rose gold. This adds interest to the design while still retaining its masculine tone. The watch features the brand’s patented Eco-Drive technology.
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