Some watches are worth more than a fleet of Ferraris. Such stratospheric prices—think six figures—are well worth it for watch collectors and enthusiasts: possession of rare and desired watches is something to be admired in certain circles. However, there are excellent selections in the market that will not break the bank, such as watches under $1,000, which range from a respectable two figures to the sweet-spot limit of the high three figures.
However, there are some factors to consider when selecting the appropriate timepiece. The first is clearly the appearance. Do you prefer something slick and contemporary? Or do you like chunkier and retro? You’ll have to choose between the techy Apple Watch and something significantly more stripped down and traditional. Whatever you desire, there is a suitable watch for you out there. With that in mind, we’ve produced a list of the greatest watches at various price points, with an emphasis on what kind of appearance you’re after — and where you can get the best value.
Orient Men’s 2nd Gen. Bambino Ver. 2 Watch
Dress watches do not have to be expensive. You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars on a Rolex or Omega to have something that looks as smart. The Orient Bambino watch is an example of this. The cream face has an antique vibe to it, with an old-fashioned typeface. The cracked leather band completes the vintage-inspired design. The watch is completely automatic, and the brighter hands provide nice color contrast. The stainless steel shell can withstand water pressures of up to 30 meters.
Stuhrling Original Symphony Silver-tone Dial Watch
Stuhrling has a long history of displaying ageless design aesthetics and sturdiness. The Original Symphony is only one of many timepieces that exemplify the quality of the flagship. With a silver-tone stainless steel case and bezel, a brown leather strap, a silver display, and black hands, this watch blend functionality and beauty to create a spectacular spectacle of watchmaking. It’s a gentleman’s dress watch and one of the greatest men’s watches available.
Timex Waterbury Classic Chronograph 40mm Watch
Timex is another low-cost but stylish watchmaker that pays homage to the past. With a vintage-looking dial inside its 40mm stainless-steel frame, the Waterbury Classic watch embodies that idea. Meanwhile, the leather strap is tough and can withstand daily wear and tear without needing to be replaced on a regular basis. The most useful feature, however, is the built-in nightlight, which allows the user to check the time in the dark with the press of a button. It’s difficult to find a better retro watch for the price. Waterproof up to 30 meters.
Todd Snyder x Timex The Modern Art Watch
Timex has plenty of stylish watches, but they’re rarely as flashy as this one. The Modern Art Watch is the latest in a series of collaborations between the boutique watchmaker and designer Todd Snyder, who borrowed color and typeface inspiration from some of his favorite mid-century modern painters. As a result, the timepiece has a design that is unlike anything else on the market. It’s also functional. The multicolored face is protected by a stainless steel housing that is water-resistant up to 50 meters.
Hamilton Khaki Field Watch
The majority of the timepieces on this list prioritize a sleek design or beautiful colorway while also providing durability. The Hamilton Khaki Field Watch, which was recently shown in Far Cry 6, is first and foremost a functional and long-lasting tool watch that can also be made to appear incredibly nice. It is based on military timepieces and has a stainless steel casing and a robust fabric strap. It can withstand up to 50 meters of water pressure. It’s worth mentioning, though, that the Hamilton must be wound up every day and can keep ticking for up to 80 hours without further attention.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
Fortunately, there is an excellent smartwatch available for Android users. Indeed, the Galaxy Watch 4 performs many of the same duties as the Apple Watch – and a few more. The Galaxy appears to have a sophisticated UI, but it is actually quite easy. Runners and gym enthusiasts will adore the Galaxy since it communicates with the body, tracking heart rate, distance traveled, speed, and other parameters. However, it also excels at the fundamentals. The dial is large enough to tell the time easily, and the strap is both robust and waterproof. The Galaxy Watch is an excellent choice whether you are a marathon runner or like a morning walk.
Junghans Form A Titan Automatic Watch
Junghans, a German watchmaker, is a favorite among luxury watch fans looking for cheap timepieces. The 40mm Form A Titan automated variant in titanium is one of the most affordable models available, but that doesn’t mean it’s low on quality. The tough leather band is stylish and comfortable, and the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects against serious damage as well as normal wear and tear. It’s also more durable than comparable-looking watches. While most of its specifications can only withstand 30 meters of water, the Junghans can withstand 100.
Tom Ford 002 Ocean Plastic
In recent years, there has been somewhat of an eco-movement in fashion. Brands like Patagonia and Blueland have made sustainable clothing fashionable, and the rise of thrifting has also contributed. It’s also been a trend in accessories, as this Tom Ford option demonstrates. The minimalist 002 watch from the fashion designer and filmmaker features a one-of-a-kind woven strap that is slightly shinier than regular fabric and also harder to the touch. But that doesn’t make it a bad watch. The 002 is much lighter, and the recycled plastic has a pleasant feel to it. A black dial completes the slick appearance, which can be dressed up or down.
TAG Heuer Pre-Owned Formula One F1 Steel White Men’s Watch
TAG Heuer has a long history of producing appealing men’s watches inspired by motor racing, such as the Formula One edition. The elegant white dial contrasts nicely with the black bezel and thick steel bracelet. The luminous hands and letters add a splash of color. It’s also a reliable piece of equipment. Everything is held together by stainless steel, and the 40mm case is completely scratch-proof. It also works well in a variety of situations and can withstand being submerged at depths of up to 200 meters.
Hamilton Khaki Field Watch
The majority of the watches on this list stress a sleek design or an appealing hue over durability. The Hamilton Khaki Field Watch, which was recently shown in Far Cry 6, is first and foremost a functional and long-lasting tool watch that can also be made to appear incredibly nice. It is based on military timepieces and has a stainless steel casing and a robust fabric strap. It can withstand up to 50 meters of water pressure. It’s worth mentioning, though, that the Hamilton must be wound up every day and can keep ticking for up to 80 hours without further attention.
Apple Watch Series 7
Purists of watches may be wary of this selection. Even though it lacks the prized analog feel, the Apple Watch Series 7 is still a timepiece – and a pretty nice one at that. It serves the aim of telling time effectively because the user can cycle through different faces. Do you want a vintage-style display with no numbers? Done. What about a genuine digital display? Another possibility.
The major advantage here, as with any smartwatch, is the variety of functionality on offer. Indeed, the Apple Watch functions as an extension of the iPhone, serving as an additional screen, texting hub, and smartphone all on your wrist. Despite being so technologically advanced, it also performs well in terms of durability, with a selection of hard-to-break silicone bands and a scratch-resistant face. The Series 7 may not be a classic wristwatch, but it is one of the best smartwatches for Apple customers available.
Bulova Archive Series Chronograph C Watch
Bulova has even more attractive options if you’re ready to pay a little more money. The Chronograph Series C watch is made of stainless steel and may be dressed up or down. The timepiece, part of its Archive Series, is a modern replica in contrasting red, white, and blue colorways that contrast with the mesh metal strap.
