In general there are only two types when looking for gents watches: those that have an arm band that is interconnected by several “links” that form the entire wrist of the watch, and ones that have a solid band that is made of some type of material and is not connected.
Determining which type you are going to buy is going to come down to your own personal preference as one isn’t distinctly better over others. Linked watches are typically thought of as nicer watches and you will normally see this design on business attire or when people are going out to a nice restaurant or club. If you are dressing up and want to look nice, gents watches with linked bands are going to be the way to go. If you are dressing more casual, are going to be running or playing a sport, being out-doors or simply want a more laid back appearance then you may want to consider gents watches with a solid band. The band is typically made of some kind of tough cloth material like denim, hard cotton, or even leather. The leather band gents watches give a very cool look and can be dyed different colors other than brown to be more versatile. They are very durable and make the watch look nicer than one with a band made of cloth. Leather band gents watches are usually not worn for sporting activities as they are heavier and will stick to your skin unlike a cloth material or nylon that is sometimes used for these watches.
Another aspect to take into consideration when determining which type of gents watches to purchase is the sizing. With a linked wrist watch you are able to change the size at any time you wish by simply taking it to a jeweler and having them add or remove links to the watch to change the length of the band. This is great for people who are still growing, specifically kids or if you are unsure of how you like to wear your watch. Some people start off getting it too tight, or gain weight and want to have some links removed later on so it feels better. Most jewelers can have this issue resolved for under twenty dollars. gents watches that have a solid band don’t have this ability as there are no links and the length is permanently set. Often you are stuck with only getting the watch that fits you in the store, if they don’t have it then you are out of luck and must look someplace else for the watch. This issue is partially resolved by having several holes placed into the band of the gents watch similar to a belt so you can get the sizing correct, but just as not all belts fit all people, not all wrist watches fit all people.
In the end you may just decide to purchase more than one gents watch, one for work and going out to nicer places, and another that you will use when you want a more sporty, laid back look. The casual watches will be less expensive in general and you can even find some for under twenty dollars that will still look cool but do their job and last a fair amount of time.