1. Above all choose a quality item. Disappointment is not the lasting memory you want your gift to convey!

2. Ensure that the watch adheres to the Nickel Directive 94/27/EC. Nickel can irritate skin so make sure the watch you choose a watch that is Nickel free.

3. Another Directive to be aware of is the RoHS Directive. This covers 'the restriction of the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment'. At Oldeani, we only supply products that are fully compliant to the above statutory requirements. Unfortunately, some suppliers are still bringing in products which do not comply to the Nickel or RoSH Directive, so beware.

4. Choose a well-known brand and always make sure that your supplier gives you at least 12 months guarantee.

5. Consider the water resistant construction: as a minimum, I'd recommend at least 3 atm but quality watches we go up as high as 10 atm.

6. Beware of cheap batteries that may leak or have a short life span. Insist on a battery with a minimum of 3 years life ... you want your gift to be a lasting one!

7. Specify a good quality strap, it says a lot about a watch and makes it look good and feel good .... and does not fall apart in 6 weeks! For a special gift, try an Italian leather, which is stitched and stuck.

8. Pins are another very important part of the watch, stainless steel pins are best, they are stronger and do not snap when the strap is fastened.

9. Beware of paper watch faces that fade. Insist on a metal face, which allows for a far superior print finish and no fading and full colour process print.

10. Last of all, packaging is the final element of the gift. It can say a lot about the sender and is a statement in itself.