Put down the gold chain and step away from the bracelet -- a wristwatch is the only piece of jewelry today's man needs. It is a subtle accessory, able to make a statement without saying a word. Sure, your cell phone has a clock, but a couple of digits on an LCD screen can't convey your lifestyle the way a gold-cased, alligator-strapped timepiece can.

The shoes should match the belt should match the watch, so make sure to keep them all leather. A metal band is a sporty option, but black or brown leather better supports a suit. And though leather is great for the boardroom, be careful on the boardwalk: A sweaty day in the summer heat can be bad news for even the finest leather.

Choosing a watch movement is like deciding between a standard transmission and an automatic. A self-winding timepiece requires more attention and seems antiquated, but -- as with a stick shift -- it's the purist's choice. A quartz movement is a carefree alternative. Still, the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry recommends both types be cleaned and serviced every three years.