Armani Watch AR585

My Journey with the Emporio Armani AR585 Watch

I received the Emporio Armani AR585 watch as a gift, and it holds a special place in my collection. This large timepiece, reminiscent of the Breguet Type XX, has a unique presence. Originally, it came on a heavy stainless steel bracelet, but the lack of micro-adjustments meant I had to wear it a bit loose, which wasn't ideal for comfort.

Finding the Right Strap

I first experimented with a black leather strap, but I eventually discovered that a brown leather strap was far more appealing to me. I opted for a deployment clasp, which not only enhances the watch’s look but also makes it more practical. Overall, the AR585 has become my go-to casual and semi-formal watch.

Sentimental Value

While it features a quartz movement, the sentimental value of the watch makes it priceless to me. It currently stands as my second oldest watch in a modest collection. My appreciation for chronographs is evident, and until I can acquire a proper mechanical chronograph, I’m content to keep the Armani in rotation.

Practicality of Inexpensive Quartz Watches

I've found that owning affordable quartz watches like the AR585 helps me gauge whether I like a particular style, size, or look before investing in a more expensive luxury timepiece. Many budget quartz watches serve as effective homages to their high-end counterparts. In this case, the Armani has made me appreciate the combination of a black dial stainless steel watch on brown leather—similar in size and arrangement to the Type XX.

Specifications

• Case Diameter: 43mm
• Lug Width: 23mm
• Movement: Quartz (Miyota OS20)
• Battery: SR927W (equivalent to 395/399)
• Chronograph: 3 registers at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions
• Water Resistance: 5 ATM (50 meters)
• Material: Stainless steel with a deployment clasp
• Comparable Model: AR0527 (features a rubber strap instead of a metal bracelet)

Updates on My Experience

Update 3/15/15: The combination of the black dial and brown strap with the deployment clasp really resonates with me. I wore this watch for several days straight and found it to be a versatile piece. While I can envision a Hamilton Khaki or a Speedy Pro in this configuration becoming my go-to watch, the Armani has truly impressed me. I prefer leather straps over metal bands, as they provide a more refined feel.

Update 4/20/18: I regret selling this watch. The quality of Armani watches at the time was commendable, and the AR585 made for an excellent beater watch. I ended up downgrading to a Casio MTP-4500 as my chronograph beater, but the Armani was a much better choice. There are definitely good deals to be found in affordable quartz watches, and the AR585 was one of them.

Update 2019: I ended up picking up another AR585, and I can confidently say it's even better than before. I'm thrilled to have this watch back in my collection, as it encapsulates not just style but also sentimental value and practical functionality.