Relic watches have long been a staple for individuals seeking a balance between high-end style and everyday affordability. As a sub-brand of the well-known Fossil Group, these timepieces carry a reputation for durability and classic design. Whether you are looking for a professional accessory for the office or a rugged companion for weekend adventures, understanding the different collections and features can help you make the right choice.
This guide explores the history of the brand, the most popular styles available for men and women, and practical tips for maintaining your timepiece. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of what makes these watches a reliable choice for your wrist.
Understanding the Relic Brand History
Relic was launched as a brand under the Fossil Group umbrella to provide consumers with fashionable watches at a more accessible price point. While Fossil focuses on a wide range of lifestyle accessories, this specific brand remains dedicated to timekeeping excellence with a focus on contemporary trends. They leverage the engineering expertise of their parent company to ensure every piece meets high standards of quality.
One of the primary reasons for the brand’s success is its ability to mimic the look of luxury watches without the high price tag. You will often find features like skeleton dials, sub-dials, and intricate metalwork that are usually reserved for much more expensive brands. This makes them an excellent entry point for new watch enthusiasts or a practical choice for those who want a variety of styles for different outfits.
Exploring Popular Men’s Collections
The men’s line is characterized by bold designs, heavy-duty materials, and a variety of functional features. Depending on your lifestyle, there are several categories to consider when browsing for a new timepiece.
Chronograph and Sport Models
For those who lead an active lifestyle or simply enjoy a technical aesthetic, the chronograph models are a top choice. These watches typically feature multiple sub-dials that function as stopwatches, allowing you to track elapsed time. They often come with thicker cases and luminous hands, making them easy to read in low-light conditions.
Classic Dress Watches
If you need something for formal occasions or daily office wear, the classic dress collection offers elegance and simplicity. These watches usually feature slim profiles that fit comfortably under a shirt cuff. You can choose between polished stainless steel bands or genuine leather straps in shades of black, brown, and tan.
Automatic and Skeleton Designs
One of the most visually striking options in the men’s catalog is the automatic skeleton watch. These pieces feature a transparent dial or case back that allows you to see the internal gears and movements. Because they are automatic, they are powered by the motion of your wrist rather than a battery, which is a feature highly prized by traditional watch collectors.
Exploring Popular Women’s Collections
The women’s collections focus on versatility, often blurring the line between a functional timepiece and a piece of fine jewelry. They are designed to complement a wide range of wardrobes, from casual denim to evening gowns.
Bangle and Bracelet Styles
Many women prefer a watch that wears like a piece of jewelry. The bangle and bracelet collections feature slim bands, often decorated with crystals or intricate patterns. These watches are lightweight and provide a sophisticated touch to any ensemble without being overly bulky.
Boyfriend and Oversized Watches
Large-face watches have become a significant trend in women’s fashion. These “boyfriend” style watches offer a more grounded, confident look. They often include functional sub-dials for the date and day of the week, combining a masculine structure with feminine finishes like rose gold or mother-of-pearl dials.
Leather Strap Classics
For a timeless and comfortable look, the leather strap collection is hard to beat. These watches are perfect for daily wear, offering a soft fit that conforms to the wrist over time. They are available in a spectrum of colors, from neutral earth tones to vibrant seasonal hues.
Key Features and Materials
To ensure your watch lasts for years, it is important to know what materials are used in its construction. Most models utilize a combination of durable components designed to withstand daily wear and tear.
- Stainless Steel: Most cases and metal bands are made from stainless steel, which is resistant to rust and corrosion.
- Mineral Crystal: The glass protecting the dial is typically made from hardened mineral crystal, which provides good scratch resistance.
- Quartz Movement: Most models use battery-powered quartz movements, known for their extreme accuracy and low maintenance.
- Water Resistance: Many styles offer water resistance ranging from 30 to 50 meters, making them safe for light splashes or rain.
How to Choose the Right Watch for You
Selecting a watch involves more than just picking a design you like. You should also consider the physical dimensions and how the watch will be used in your daily life. A watch that is too large can be uncomfortable, while one that is too small might be difficult to read.
Measure your wrist circumference before purchasing to determine the best case diameter. Generally, those with smaller wrists should look for case sizes between 34mm and 38mm, while those with larger wrists can comfortably wear 42mm to 45mm cases. Additionally, consider the strap material; metal is more durable for humid climates, while leather offers a more classic and comfortable feel in cooler weather.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Proper care will extend the life of your timepiece and keep it looking new. Even though these watches are built to be durable, they still require occasional attention to perform at their best.
Clean your watch regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove sweat and oils that can accumulate on the case and band. If you have a metal bracelet, you can use a soft toothbrush and a tiny amount of mild soap to clean between the links. Always ensure the crown is pushed in tightly before cleaning to prevent water from entering the internal movement.
Battery replacement is another important aspect of maintenance. Most quartz batteries last between two and three years. It is best to have the battery replaced as soon as it dies to prevent old batteries from leaking and damaging the movement. For automatic watches, regular wear is the best way to keep them running, though you may need a watch winder if you do not wear it every day.
Where to Find and Purchase
These watches are widely available through various retail channels, making them easy to find both in-person and online. Major department stores often carry the latest collections, allowing you to try them on before making a purchase. Online marketplaces are also a great resource, frequently offering a wider selection of discontinued or hard-to-find models.
When shopping online, always verify the seller’s reputation and check for warranty information. Buying from authorized retailers ensures that you receive a genuine product backed by the manufacturer’s support. This provides peace of mind regarding the authenticity and longevity of your new timepiece.
Conclusion
Choosing a Relic watch means investing in a piece of functional fashion that balances quality with value. From the intricate details of a skeleton dial to the simple elegance of a leather strap, there is a style suited for every personality and occasion. By considering your specific needs and following basic care routines, your watch can serve as a reliable companion for many years to come.
Finding the right accessory is just the first step in building a functional wardrobe. If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring our other articles on fashion maintenance and smart shopping tips to help you make informed decisions on all your lifestyle purchases.