There comes a time in almost every man's life when he feels the itch. No, not that itch. The itch, the urge, the pull, the veritable rite of passage that is buying a proper watch.

But what is a proper watch? To us, it's one that shows you've made the effort, that you're no longer content telling the time from your mobile, that – yes – you've taken a big step toward actual, bona fide manhood.

The problem with the world of men's watches ("horology" to give its proper name) is that it can feel to the outsider like a pretentious club that doesn't want you as a member. Ask a watch bore about the difference between a quartz and an automatic movement and he'll look at you like you've used his best single malt whisky to get a bonfire going.

Happily, is here to help you through the horology jungle, so you can feel empowered to make your next big watch purchase with confidence. Knowledge is everything.