Whether you’re new to the world of watches or you’re a timepiece expert, you’ve probably wondered at one point or another which wrist you should be wearing your watch on. The answer is simple – you should wear your watch on your non-dominant hand. This is often the most comfortable and accessible place for your watch to be, although your personal comfort should definitely be taken into account. Read on to learn more about what side to wear a watch.
Why Most People Wear Watches on Their Left Hand
Tradition dictates that you should wear a watch on your left hand. Just like handshakes, these traditions actually come down to which hand is your dominant hand. Most people in the world (around 80-90% of the world’s population) are right-handed.
History of Watch-Wearing Etiquette
Wearing your watch on the left wrist originated in the 18th century. Aristocrats at the time considered their watches to be precious ornaments and wanted to show them off as much as possible.
Fun fact: Watches were originally considered to be pieces of women’s jewelry until World War I when they became popular among soldiers.
Practical Reasons for Wearing a Watch on the Left Hand
Wearing your watch on the left wrist is also, simply put, more practical. It’s easier to check the time while the right hand is doing something else such as cooking or writing. The crown is also on the right side of the case which makes it easier to use with the more dominant right hand and additionally, wearing your watch on your non-dominant hand is less likely to result in scratches on your watch.
Wearing a Watch on the Right Hand
Despite the “correct” way to wear a watch being on the left hand, left-handed wearers will probably feel more comfortable wearing their watch on the right wrist.
Left-Handed Individuals and Their Preferences
Wearing your watch on the right wrist when left-handed is pretty common. It makes sure your watch doesn’t get in the way while writing or typing and lets you check the time while your dominant hand is busy. Of course, as with many tools designed in a right-handed world, the majority of watches still have the crown on the right side of the case so you might need to remove your watch to operate it. Left-handed watches are possible to find but are rarer.
Breaking Tradition for Style
As with many traditions in this day and age, fewer people follow the strict rules dictated to them and instead opt for the option that feels right and is most comfortable. There’s nothing wrong with mixing up which hand you wear your watch on if it’s the more comfortable or stylish option – it’s your watch after all.
Personal Style and Comfort: It’s Your Choice
At the end of the day, the watch you choose and how you wear it is entirely your decision. Are you the type of person to follow tradition? Stick to wearing it on your left wrist. If you’re left-handed and need to easily see the time and date when signing papers, your right wrist may be best. Or just mix it up depending on how you’re feeling that day!
Factors to Consider When Choosing Which Hand to Wear Your Watch On
Some things to think about when deciding which wrist to wear your watch on include:
- Comfort – Wearing a watch on your non-dominant hand won't interfere with your daily activities and can be the more comfortable option.
- Protection – Similarly, wearing your watch on your non-dominant hand can help to protect it from bumps, knocks, and scratches.
- Ease of use – It can be easier to operate the watch and read the time when your watch is on your non-dominant wrist.
Popular Timex Watches for Left and Right Hand Wearing
We have a range of different watch styles, including a wide range of women’s watch styles, to suit you whether you prefer to wear your watch on your left or right hand.
Key Takeaway
Whether you are left or right-handed, or just prefer to switch the side you wear your watch every so often, Timex has the perfect watch for you. Our range of watches and watch straps are the perfect ways to add personality to your style and accessorize any look.
Check out our guide on watch maintenance to keep your watch ticking smoothly for years to come.
LIKE WHAT YOU SEE? SHOP THE STORY:
