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Step 1
If you are trying to decide between an an automatic or a digital watch you should first determine what your priority is. If you are looking for a top of the line "status" watch, such as a Rolex or Omega, you will have to choose an automatic watch. If you are looking for a nice watch that does not cost a fortune and keeps perfect time you will want a quartz watch.
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Step 2
Learn the difference between automatic and quartz watches. Automatic watches are more expensive because they are hand crafted machines consisting of hundreds of different parts all working together to keep time. Years of craftsmanshp and detail go in to watches like Rolex and Omega. Quartz watches are usually less expensive and also contain a few precision parts, just not as many. Quartz watches keep better time than automatic watches costing hundreds or thousands more. This may not seem logical but at the heart of a quartz watch is an electronic circuit consisting of a quartz crystal and electronics. These components are easier to mass produce than all of the many parts that make up an automatic watch. Automatic watches require annual maintaince at a certified jewler. Quartz watches only require a new battery every year or so.
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Step 3
Recognize that automatic watches do not keep accurate time as compared to quartz watches, although they may cost much more. Determine if you want a "status watch" or a practical watch. Many high end watches, such as Tag Heuer, come in quartz models. Also know that automatic watches require regular motion to stay wound. You must wear the watch daily or use an automatic watch winder to keep the watch going when not in use. In the end it comes down to what you want the watch for. Think of it like this: A Rolls Royce is a hand crafted automobile. A Honda Civic is a precision made automobile with fewer problems than a Rolls Royce. It depends on what you want the watch for, reputation and craftsmanship or time keeping.
