by Sylvia Mcelherron

Created on: October 22, 2009

Women are more likely these days to buy a watch for themselves now more than ever. No more waiting for that special occasion or anniversary to receive a special timepiece - these days women treat the purchase of a watch like that of any other statement accessory such as designer handbag, luxury brand sunglasses or even shoes. As with most high value purchases a woman will research brands and styles until she gets the best choice for her personal style at the very best price, but unlike most other accessories, the purchase of a watch is less fashion-driven and so is more likely to stand the test of time and become an integrated part of her wardrobe for many years to come. This makes a luxury watch the perfect collectible item and a great excuse, if you need it, to buy more than one.

The watch industry underwent something of a revolution when the first quartz movements were created in the 1970's sending the demand for the skilfully crafted mechanical watch into freefall. Thankfully craftsmanship is once again in fashion and whereas the creators of these engineering marvels once aimed their wares at a male-dominated marketplace now more of the design departments are creating distinctive watches for women - not just smaller versions of the men's pieces either, these are models with features designed specifically for women who are becoming more aware of the value of these items both as a statement accessory and as an investment.

A good starting point for a collection is to choose a sports watch, a dress watch perhaps a diamond set piece and something in-between for your smart but casual days, most women will not want to purchase a luxury watch for it to just sit in a box so this way you will have variety and a piece to suit every occasion. Few serious watch collections are without a piece from Rolex and Patek Philippe so these brands make for safe investments but there are also many more fine and unique brands to be considered.

For a sports watch consider the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Lady, the ladies version of what many in the business consider to be the ultimate sports watch. This watch has a unique octagonal bezel with eight screws going right through the case and features a chunky integrated bracelet. Available in a variety of construction materials from stainless steel through to red gold and various strap and dial colours the Royal Oak Lady has choices to suit everyone.

The dress watch, a once redundant jewellery item resigned to being stored at the back of the

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