There was a time when automatic watches were a rare luxury, reserved for only the most prestigious of collectors.
The dawn of the modern age, however, found the emergence of automatic watches to be as popular as ever, and now, it seems like every highly-regarded brand includes automatic watches as their staple entries, as they are often featured as the poster child for the entire watch industry.
Due to their complex nature, technology has done wonders for the manufacturing process, but automatic watches are still very much a luxury item, especially the ones that are equipped with many complications.
But what makes them so unique, and how do they even work in the first place? Today, we will be diving deep to uncover precisely how intricate the design of these technical marvels truly is, as well as the primary differences and unique qualities automatic watches carry.
A Brief History
In the 1770s, with the designs of Swiss watchmaker Abraham-Louis Perrelet, the first mechanical device that could transfer energy created by the user’s body was developed.
Perrelet created a clock that could hold power for eight days straight, and it wasn’t until the French inventor Hubert Sarton improved upon Perrelet’s designs that the idea of an automatic watch came to be.
The biggest step in the automatic watch’s evolution came shortly after World War I when an English inventor named John Hartwood utilized the method to easily transform kinetic power into changing mechanisms when he started to produce watches in 1928.
This gave the European public the chance to use watches capable of holding a 12-hour charge. Eventually, other manufacturers embraced Harwood’s designs and started an era of technological improvement.
Rolex added their new system of weights that could capture more energy, Eterna Watch introduced ball bearings to the designs, and watchmakers were able to establish better control over internal components.
The structural integrity was valued above all else, and the shift in design caused watch companies to switch up their priorities.
What exactly is an automatic watch?
To put it simply, automatic watches don’t utilize batteries to run the mechanism. Instead, they are fueled solely by the wearer’s natural motions. That means whenever you move your hand, the watch gets wound—no manual winding or charging required.
But if automatic watches don’t depend on anything other than the wearer’s movement, why is it that so many watches still come with manual winding options? It’s because, in order to get the most out of the watch’s maximum power reserve, automatic watches will occasionally need manual intervention.
You see, while the automatic winding will do most of the heavy lifting, it still isn’t enough to fully wind it. The power reserve is the period that an automatic watch will run without any motion applied, meaning the more often you wear the watch, the longer it stays on.
But how do they work?
Think of your motions as an engine; if you aren’t wearing the watch, the freely spinning rotor does not move. Once you start moving your wrist, the rotor creates energy, and as the energy gradually makes its way around the device, it is accumulated into the mainspring, causing a chain reaction that is felt all over.
The energy then moves down through multiple gears into the escapement, which measures it into equal parts.
These parts are necessary for the balance wheel to beat at an unchangeable rate, and with every beat of the balance wheel, the gear transfers the measured energy into equal parts of the watch hands, giving us our ticking and making everything run. If you think it sounds easy, then you could not be more wrong.
The whole mechanism is composed of over one hundred miniature parts that all have to run in cohesion to keep everything working. That means that if one of these tiny parts slips up, the entire system malfunctions.
That’s why these watches are viewed as technical masterpieces. The sophistication and complexity are off the charts and require an extreme level of skill to manufacture. Can you see now why they are valued so much more than standard quartz movements?
What are the best features of Automatic Watches?
Automatic watches boast their own unique traits that set them apart from the competition. For starters, most automatic watches feature an open caseback, allowing you to look at the gorgeous mechanism for yourself.
Depending on your watch, it’s possible to see a half-circle-shaped spinning rotor, the balance wheel, the gears, and other components that make up the technical masterpiece.
Skeleton watches allow you a full view from both the front and back, and are even more of a gorgeous testament of what it takes to design something so complex.
Another visual bonus that automatic watches offer is a sweeping hand. Automatic watches take around 6-8 steps a second, giving an elegant sweeping motion of the second’s hand.
This is the result of a smoother and faster beat that is easy to differentiate from a traditionally battery-powered quartz piece. A sweeping second hand is usually the mark of a very high-luxury watch and gives the piece an extra sense of flair.
What are the cons of Automatic Watches?
The first downside to an automatic watch is its power reserve. The mainspring method that automatic watches utilize presents various physical limitations, such as the watch itself not being able to carry a consistent power reserve over a long period of time, in contrast to quartz, whose batteries last for years without any trouble.
This means that if you want the watch to operate consistently, you have to wear it consistently. Another downside to automatic watches is the inconsistent accuracy.
To be more specific, the accuracy is unstable, meaning that automatic watches have the capability to lose seconds one day and gain them back the next, leaving you playing a guessing game as to which time is actually right.
A typical caliber is accurate to +/- 20 seconds per day, while a quartz movement deviates +/- 15 seconds a month, reading much more accurately than an automatic.
Temperature fluctuations, magnetism, gravity, and friction levels all contribute to the inaccuracy of automatic watches, and unfortunately, this might be a deal breaker to some, but there is simply nothing to be done.
Tips to avoid damage
As with anything you pay for, the last thing you want is to see it damaged. Unlike manual watches, you can’t damage an automatic mainspring by twisting the crown too much.
There’s something called a “slipping spring” at the end of the mainspring that glides around the inside of the barrel after the watch is fully wound, shielding it from overuse.
After all, even though automatic watches aren’t exactly known for their accuracy, the point is to spare the user from having the burden of winding them daily, and to display the flashy technique of technological brilliance that has come from a long history of tinkering and perfecting.
Conclusion
In my opinion, the good that comes from automatic watches far outweighs the bad. No watch is going to all of a sudden break down because you didn’t follow the exact instructions. All it takes is a little bit of care and a lot of love for your piece to run efficiently.
For me, sporting one of the most advanced mechanical marvels on my wrist carries enough charm for automatic watches to be alluring, but you could be different. I hope, at least, you were able to better understand how automatic watches work and how they vary from differently-made pieces.
Whether they fit your taste or not, it’s undeniable how talented watch makers have become, and when I look ahead to the next hundred years or so, it makes me wonder what kind of evolutions are waiting for the watch industry.
Whether you’re a simple high school chemistry teacher or one of the biggest drug manufacturers in Albuquerque, New Mexico, there’s no reason why your wristwear should be lacking.
Walter White knew this, and throughout the show Breaking Bad, we saw him—and many other characters—wear numerous pieces that reflected this ideology. Today, we will be looking at some of the most iconic watches from the show Breaking Bad that make even the filthiest of drug dealers look sweet and stylish.
Casio CA-53W
A simple Casio CA-53 is perfect symbolism for how we first see Walter White. At the show’s beginning, he is a highly overqualified, underpaid high school chemistry teacher. No doubt a true genius, but stuck in the poisonous loop that he’s been living in for the last 50 years.
He dresses in khakis and collared shirts and is seen wearing a simple Casio watch—more specifically, a calculator model from the 80s. The watch has a rectangular shape, a small screen at the top, and 8-digit calculator buttons below.
It displays the drastic simplicity that we feel when we first see Walter, but don’t worry, that meek demeanor first exhibited during season one will quickly evolve into something far flashier, and he will need a nicer watch to match.
The Casio CA-53W costs $30
Tag Heuer Monaco
The Tag Heuer Monaco symbolizes Walter White’s dark shift from a mildly mannered chemistry teacher to a full-on drug lord. It stands out because of the unique square shape, the sharp colors, and the price tag that accompanies most Tag Heuer models of this caliber.
This watch is gifted to Walt during one of the last episodes of the show, when he has fully embodied his dark side and is now the most dangerous drug lord in the state.
Now that he finally fits the kind of persona that would rock an authentic Tag Heuer, this watch is meant to symbolize a drastic upgrade while serving as a dark omen of the disasters that will eventually take place.
The official watch that is seen in the show is the Tag Heuer caliber 12 ref. CAW2111.FC6183, a very similar design to the original Monaco.
The TAG Heuer Monaco costs around 4- 5k.
Rolex Gold Datejust
Sleazy lawyer Saul Goodman rocks a gold Datejust to complete his flashy personality. Being a criminal lawyer has its perks, and it’s no mystery that Saul has accumulated a fabulous amount of wealth (though by very questionable means).
Of course, knowing Saul, the Datejust that we see in the show has a high possibility of being a fake, as it would fit his character perfectly for his golden beauty just to be another charade in his never-ending facade.
Nevertheless, anyone who calls Saul is greeted with the symbolic golden flash of the iconic Datejust model we all know and love.
An authentic Rolex Gold Datejust costs around $14k.
IWC Portugieser
The IWC Portugieser was seen being conservatively worn by the show’s most mysterious and terrifying villain, Gustavo Fring. Known for not being too flashy, the Portugieser was a perfect choice for the notorious “Chicken Man,” as Gus’s entire persona revolves around staying hidden in plain sight.
The Portugieser Perpetual Calendar 42 is an automatic watch with a perpetual date, month, and leap year. Two subdials reside at the top and bottom of this piece, reinforcing the well-rounded symmetry that, once again, is very symbolic of Gus’s character.
You see, in the show, Gus is a perfectionist who goes to strenuous lengths to keep his operations running smoothly while keeping them invisible from the public eye. It is fitting that he should be sporting a watch as well-rounded and subtly detailed as he is.
The IWC Portugeiser cost around $8k.
Cartier Ronde Louis
Moving on to a piece that is not featured on the show, but still has strong ties to Breaking Bad, the Cartier Ronde Louis was given to actor Aaron Paul, who played Jesse. According to an article on The Gentleman’s Journal, AMC gifted him the watch after he won an Emmy for his performance on the show.
It was rumored to be a pink gold variant, which is priced at around $25,000. The large model is sized at 36mm with mechanical movement and a manual winding caliber 430 MC. The case is set with 68 brilliant-cut diamonds and a beaded crown with a brilliant-cut diamond totaling 0.73 karats.
The apple-shaped hands come in blue steel, elegantly ticking around the thick, vintage-looking Roman numerals that breathe the iconic Cartier essence that so many fans have fallen in love with.
This is a beautiful piece, and it’s even more comforting to know that Aaron Paul received this as an award for his incredible performance that made the show what it is. He definitely deserved it.
The Cartier Ronde Louis Costs $25k.
Conclusion
Being a big fan of the show myself, going back and looking for particular timepieces mentioned and worn was very fascinating. I’m convinced that the show’s creators knew exactly what they were doing when assigning watches for each character to wear.
Each piece holds an extreme amount of symbolism that encapsulates who that character is, and how they govern themselves. The creators must have also known a lot about timepieces because the watches featured on the show are not your everyday wristwear.
Iconic watches are featured all through various media sources and TV shows, but nothing quite hits the same as Breaking Bad. After all, it is the highest-rated show of all time, and they didn’t earn that title by accident.
Every scene is crafted with so much character and detail, and it’s obvious that the same excellence is used when picking out the character’s wardrobe. The journey of Walter White is one for the ages, and for a fan of both timepieces and the show, it is pretty special that one of the most iconic symbols of his destructive path is reflected by his choice of wristwear.
The years have treated Seiko well, or rather, Seiko has made the most of its time in the spotlight by carving out an admirable reputation that focuses on the utmost efficiency of timekeeping.
Simply put, they are some of the best to do it, and their masterful pieces of horological art perfectly reflect their talent. They are pristine, they are luxurious, but most notably, they are affordable. There is perhaps no other watch brand that comes close to Seiko’s bang-for-your-buck value.
A brand that has been a part of every horological development is bound to pick up a thing or two. Whether it be their flawless quartz movement or their iconic divers, one Seiko trait that is indisputable is consistent variety, and it is because of this commitment to making every piece into the best version it can be that we, the consumer, get to benefit from this across-the-board quality.
Their generous prices make every piece worth looking into, and today, I have compiled some of the best pieces on the market that are all under $500.
Seiko’s legacy
Before we get into the pieces themselves, let’s establish a brief historical overview of this legendary watch company, just in case you’re unfamiliar with the rich legacy. Founded in 1881 and originally a standard clock repair shop, Seiko quickly grew into one of the most innovative forces in the watch world.
Most notably, Seiko is known for pioneering the quartz technology, kinetic movements, and the spring drive, allowing for the bridging of both mechanical and electronic pieces.
They also produced the first-ever Japanese wristwatch called the Laurel, which, of course, led to the horological explosion of Japan, where many other big-name brands, including Citizen and Orient, derive from.
A century later, Seiko is stronger than they have ever been, and its innovative ideas have only become more revolutionary. This list is very diverse, featuring watches from all across the board.
That’s the beauty, though; no two Seiko watches are the same, but you can be sure that they both come with the same level of elevated quality.
Seiko SRPD53K
Starting strong with a classic dive watch, the SRPD53K is a simplistic beauty, displaying everything great about Seiko divers on a single 42mm wide frame. The simple stainless steel is beautiful, and the bottlecap red edging on the dark blue bezel gives it that unique pop.
The numerals come thick and silver, and the dial itself matches the dark-blue hue of the outer bezel. With 100m of water resistance, this watch holds true to Seiko’s utilitarian excellence, making this a particularly highly coveted piece among diver fans.
This is about as classic as it gets, but the aesthetic does everything right. It preserves itself enough while also throwing in a sparky flare that will appeal to almost anyone. Definitely recommend.
The Seiko SRPD53K costs $220.
Seiko Presage SRPB41J1
The Presage brings a well-formed, subtle elegance that is truly undeniable. The slender sword hands look as if they could slice through butter, and the graduation pattern backdrop of the dial provides an exquisite amount of luxurious detail.
This piece is quite formal, but it has been refined to exhaustion as its perfect symmetry is one of the most appealing features to take away.
The Caliber 4R35 ticks flawlessly from behind the open caseback, which is surprising considering the price, as you typically don’t see a 23 jewel movement of this caliber translate to a price like this. Nevertheless, Seiko unapologetically delivers every prestigious feature that dress watch lovers go crazy for.
The Seiko Presage SRPB41J1 costs $450.
Seiko Prospex SNE573
Always seeking to innovate, Seiko delivers its solar power Prospex SNE573 in 38.5mm of stainless steel. Its dark design is perhaps outshone by the bright hands and indices that pair quite nicely with the little white marks along the bezel.
Seiko takes a pragmatic approach, but it is rewarded with articulate features that further cement this piece as a technological innovation.
The solar movement can operate for approximately 10 months when fully charged, and the quick start function and the overcharge prevention feature keep things running smoothly.
With 200m of water resistance, this watch can reach extraordinary depths. Seiko obviously knows who they’re catering to, as I can imagine their diver fans were undoubtedly blown away.
The Seiko Prospex SNE573 costs $475.
Seiko Prospex Golden Turtle SRPC44
The turtle is an all-time classic. The oval case and outlined hands are strikingly bold, and in this gold version, their aesthetic features stand out even more.
This watch boasts an unashamed amount of attention as it sits proudly on your wrist, and the glamorous bling will either appeal very strongly to you or not so much.
I can respect the gold plating, because obviously, it’s not authentic gold, but Seiko doesn’t try to claim anything they are not. This is just supposed to be a fun piece that has the undeniable talent of being able to turn heads. You’re going to notice a theme, as this watch comes with a 200m diver rating as well.
Can you see now why so many diver fans hold Seiko to such a high standard? Even when they aren’t necessarily trying to make a diver watch, they still deliver very high water resistance with their watches, which goes back to that theme of consistency I mentioned before.
This titanium chronograph is a technological wonder. It features three subdials that bring a distinguished look to the palette, and the industrial nature of the titanium is felt all throughout the design.
The carbon surface mashes elegance and sportiness together in a very appealing fashion, while the primary dial itself is incredibly meticulous.
The chronograph is equipped with up to 12 hours of power in ⅕ second increments, and the battery life of the entire piece lasts up to 3 years. This piece is simply beautiful, and it carries a sense of refinement while also holding fast to those high-end technical features.
The Seiko Titanium SSB387 costs $398.
Seiko SRPJ85
From the recently launched 36mm line from Seiko 5, the SRPJ85 comes rocking the 4R36 movement, an automatic that can be seen hacking and winding from the see-through caseback.
This is a very straightforward, fundamental piece that kind of mimics an older style of watch. The beige colors and textures partially light up the dark palette of what would otherwise be a bland aesthetic, adding just enough life to turn heads.
The tropical hands are what does it for me, the outlining is gorgeous, and paired with the pebble texture of the dial, this watch holds a very unique presence on the wrist.
The Seiko SRPJ85 costs $295.
Seiko Coutura SSC700
This magical piece is shimmering with an elevated mystique and boldness. Perhaps one of the most unique-looking Seikos I’ve ever seen, the SSC700 comes with a sophisticated gold tone and is powered by a solar chronograph, giving it three differently proportioned subdials resting in a vertical pattern on the dial itself. Very large in size, the SSC700 measures 44mm in diameter and resists waters of up to 100m.
The perpetual calendar also adjusts for odd and even months, including February of leap years up to the year 2100.
The Seiko Coutura SSC700 costs $400.
Seiko Prospex PADI Tuna SNE499
The blue, can-shaped shroud securely protects the Tuna, adding a sturdy, submarine-like bulk that Seiko diver fans go crazy for. This is quite the hefty watch, 47mm to be exact, but in an attempt to make it appear smaller, the lugs tuck under the case, surprisingly providing those with smaller wrists with a more comfortable fit.
The Tuna proudly supports the iconic blue and red colors of divers past, but the best part of the design is the little wave pattern of the dial that delivers a much more detailed aesthetic than many other divers of the same caliber.
With 200m of water resistance, this behemoth is suitable for any water activities, and it seems to me that the security features on this piece are designed to keep you at ease no matter how deep you go.
The Seiko Prospex PADI Tuna SNE499 costs $450.
Seiko SNKL45
Reminiscent of the Oyster Perpetual, the SNKL45 is designed to be an everyday watch, suitable for anything. Symmetrical, precise, and flawless are the three defining characteristics, and they’re felt throughout the piece.
With a simple, jet black dial, this piece is very aware of itself, and the elegant sword hands blend perfectly with the buttery smooth steel of the case. It seems like a quiet tone is what Seiko is going for, after all, if you’re designing a watch to suit any occasion, causing it to be too loud or glamorous would surely interfere with their goal.
These are the kind of watches that catch my eye the most, and they’re the ones I keep revisiting as their design is just too alluring to ignore.
The Seiko SNKL45 costs: $142.
Seiko Recraft SNKP27
The Recraft’s vintage spunkiness is cherished and highly praised. Serving as both a dress watch and a piece you can wear every day, the Recraft is very reminiscent of the 1980s, a time when watchmaking was more authentic.
The multi-sectioned dial combines shiny, clean surfaces with varying shades of green the further you get to the center, and the gold outlining of the hands and indices provides a prestigious feeling.
The leather strap, however, ties the whole piece together and tops off the design with a unique flair. This is a very fun piece to indulge in, and it’s obviously made for a particular crowd, but if you fall into that category, you will not be disappointed.
The Seiko Recraft SNKP27 costs $207.
Seiko Essentials SUR307
With classic sport styling that is fit for high-functioning dress wear, the SUR307 operates with a silver subtly that relies heavily on sophisticated minimalism. The dial is equipped with a sunray finish that features a date window beside the three o’clock position.
It’s shiny and reflective, capable of holding light that seemingly enchants the entire aesthetic. Speaking of light, the sword hands as well as the indices have a LumiBrite feature, capable of maintaining their visibility in the darkest environments.
The features on this piece don’t jump out; instead, they work in silence, crafting a versatile presence on the wrist, one that is difficult to pick up on. It’s Seiko’s subtle design choices that allow for such a presence, and it’s a kind of style choice I greatly admire.
The Seiko Essentials SUR307 costs $250.
Seiko 5 Sports SRPE55
Consistent reliability and high-level performance are what set the 5 Sports Series apart, and the philosophy of dependable timekeeping that Seiko works so hard to uphold is fully embodied in the SPRE55.
The black sunray dial is iconic at this point, and the SPRE55 shines as a dark and beautiful piece, made even more incredible by its technical prowess. Powered by an automatic movement that can reserve approximately 41 hours, the SRPE55 beats at 21,600 vph.
It also features a day/date calendar positioned at three o’clock, and the hands are equipped with high-visibility LumiBrite. The durable stainless steel case ensures durable performance, and with 100-meter water protection, this piece comes with the classic Seiko insurance.
The Seiko 5 Sports SRPE55 costs $295.
Seiko 5 Sports SRPL31
Another, newer, 5 Sports model, the SRPL31, is part of the Yuto Horigome Limited Edition collection. With just 4,000 made, this piece features the production serial number engraved on the case back, displays the signature Yuro Horigome logo on the dial, and has a see-through case back design similar to early pilot watches.
The 60-minute track is framed by the black and brown dial, offering a unique hue that embodies a retro tone, and the case is crafted of stainless steel.
This is an automatic piece, powered by a Caliber 4R36. It beats at 21,600 vph and has 24 jewels, sporting a healthy power reserve of 41 hours. The greatest praise I can give this watch is that it’s unique. Even for a collector’s item, it has a certain boldness and swagger that I have yet to see from Seiko.
The Seiko 5 Sports SRPL 31 costs $410.
Seiko Prospex Solar Diver SNE585
The Prospex series prides itself on holding fast to technological excellence and flawless design, which allows it to meet every challenge with a swift solution. The SNE585 is sleek and thin, holding a much more compact feel than other solar watches.
It also combines the performance of earlier diver models with the solar superiority that Seiko has perfected. With an energy sufficient solar cell that any light source can power, this piece offers a 10-month power reserve when fully charged, no battery change required.
It also boasts a 200m water resistance rating as a nice little cherry on top. But how does it look? The SNE585 comes with a highly legible blue sunray finish dial, with a date calendar at the 3 o’clock and ultra LumiBrite hands and indices. I really love the bezel as well.
It was finished the same way, but provides an overarching compliment to the entire piece. This watch embodies a fresh sense of functionality while being downright beautiful.
The Prospex Solar Diver SNE585 costs $495.
Seiko Coutura SNE565
This stylish beauty delivers an elevated tone highlighted by the silvery case and dial. Measuring 42.5mm in diameter, the SNE565 gives us a lot to work with, though it doesn’t necessarily feel that way. The curved lugs and domed dial cause it to appear thinner and more compact than it actually is, and with a design like this, it works.
The dial is a combination of grey and blue accents, with angular lines to elevate the sophistication, and a bezel surrounding the design with a blue ion finish. The stainless steel is about as smooth as you can get, causing the watch to look more versatile than you would expect.
The Seiko Coutura costs $375.
Seiko Essentials SUR555
This Essentials piece quite literally focuses on the essentials, proudly sporting one of the most straightforward designs I’ve ever seen from Seiko. With simply polished steel and a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, perhaps the most standout feature of this piece is the vibrant blue dial, which isn’t really saying much.
Not that it’s a bad thing, the SUR555 is an updated classic, and you can tell it holds on very tightly to its original roots. It’s a versatile watch with a simple design that is suitable for any environment. Inside is as straightforward as the outside, with a simple Quartz Caliber 6N51 powering the movement.
The Seiko Essentials SUR555 costs $315.
Seiko 5 Sports SRPD61
The SRPD61 is a unique entry to the 5 Sports collection. Its vibrant green sunray dial immediately caught my eye, as it stands out even among the brightest colors. The bezel is the same shade, and I couldn’t tell you why, but something about this color is so alluring that I couldn’t help putting it on this list.
It feels like it’s embodying the tone of an emerald green sea, but this isn’t necessarily a watch made for divers, though you can certainly wear it on an actual green sea should you so desire.
Powered by an automatic Caliber 4R36, this piece beats at a comfortable 21,600vph, holding a power reserve of 41 hours.
The Seiko 5 Sports SRPD61 costs $325.
Seiko Presage SRPB77
The Presage collection continues to be my personal favorite Seiko collection. The SRPB77 is a stunner. Its highly detailed dial features a pressed pattern that shimmers under certain lights, enhanced by seven layers of gloss finish and the clarity of box-shaped crystals.
The slender blue hands are sleek and exotic, giving the watch a more reserved profile, and the strength of the piece is held together by beautifully polished stainless steel. Automatic movement allows both self and automatic winding capabilities, ticking at 21,600vph.
Funny enough, this is one of the only pieces that falls under the 100m water diver rating mark, as the SPRB77 only totals out to 50m. It makes sense, you aren’t going to be exploring the oceans, this is a dress watch through and through.
The Seiko Presage SRPB77 costs $450.
Seiko Essentials SSB425
The SSB425 is a very dynamic chronograph with a singular silver sundial, accompanied by two black ones. I’ve always admired the exquisite detail that Seiko adds to their chronograph. The black tachymeter outer ring frames this piece’s beauty, perhaps adding the most amount of finely-tuned detail.
The main dial itself is silver, with slender hands gracefully moving across the backdrop, and with various indices and numerals, the greatest praise that I can give this watch is that it all comes together to a very balanced aesthetic that looks divine on the wrist. A powerful Quartz Chronograph sits at the heart, fueled by the Caliber 8T63.
The Seiko Essentials SSB425 costs $250.
Seiko Coutra SUR566
Aside from the gold-plated exterior, the most notable feature on the SUR566 is the multi-layer carbon-fiber patterned black dial, with applied indices to provide a rich sense of 3 dimensionality.
The two main hands match the outer layer of gold on the case, but the red second hand somehow increases the bold aesthetic even more. This piece is very unapologetic, as the gold will only appeal to some.
It is admirable, however, that Seiko was able to craft such a unique design that delivers an impeccable amount of detail while instilling such a prestigious feeling. The SUR566 uses a Quartz Caliber 6N52 as a power source and can withstand water depths of 100m.
The Seiko Coutra SUR566 costs $450.
Conclusion
Whether it’s the sleek luxury of the Presage series or the high-performing chronographs that never cease to impress, Seiko has something for everyone, and once you see the price tag, it’s going to be hard not to pull the trigger.
In fact, the more pieces Seiko releases, the harder I find it to keep my hand off the trigger and the money in my wallet. They are simply irresistible, and it’s difficult to become accustomed to anything else when you have watches that are as consistently versatile as this.
I hope that this list has narrowed down your search for the perfect affordable watch, and if you have the money to spend on pieces within this price range, you would be foolish to ignore the countless Seiko masterpieces available.
Treading the glamorous path of pure imagination, the pocket watch has dwelt in its own little realm for centuries.
A historic emblem of eras past, this technological revolution changed the way humanity tells time, laying the foundation of a culture that views timekeeping as both a necessity and a luxurious art form.
Today, we will be looking at how pocket watches have evolved from humanity’s first mobile method to tell time into the classical piece of jewelry they are known for today. We will also be examining the defining characteristics of pocket watches, including the protective coverings, which are notable for being exquisitely crafted, and the sturdy chain used to attach the watch to your clothing.
Across the market, pocket watches come in many shapes and sizes, though you can typically expect them to carry a round shape with an elegant face that showcases the hours, minutes, and seconds.
The pocket watch market may not be as mainstream as the wristwatch market, but that does not mean it’s any less vibrant. There’s something out there for everyone, and that’s exactly what we’re going to narrow down today.
History
The invention of the pocket watch can be traced back to Peter Henlein, a German locksmith. The year in which he first developed his masterful creation is up for debate.
Popular consensus seems to be that Henlein created the Portable Pomander Watch in either 1505 or 1510, as his works were typically built into musk-balls or pomanders, a very popular industrial style of that time period.
These small pendant containers were fashioned from precious metals and are now known as pomander watches, but they were frequently given as gifts to the wealthy or important individuals.
The centuries that followed praised Henlein’s work, recognizing it for its industrial and historical importance, as early pocket watches were designed to be portable time-tellers, completely unreliant on a power source.
This launched the horology scene into the stratosphere, questioning the limits of what’s possible in the timekeeping world. Not only do these pieces owe everything to Henlein’s historical narrative that allowed them to shine, but every form of mobile timekeeping owes everything they have to the centuries of groundwork that came before.
The Top 18 Pocket Watches
As we dive into the list, be moved by the rich history that lurks within each and every piece, and consider the prestigious appeal that each work instills within its wearer. Pocket watches are excellent indulgences, and when you have a deeper understanding of the history, it allows you to enjoy them all the more.
ShoppeWatch Eagle Pocket Watch
The antique, old-school vibe is what keeps pocket watch fans coming back, and it doesn’t get more old-school than the ShoppeWatch.
This piece is praised for its vintage aesthetic, with an eye-catching eagle design across the front of the case, which gives it just enough flair to stand out.
The half-hunter style means that you can catch a glimpse of the watch face through the aluminum lid, providing a bit of texture and detail that is very much welcome.
Measuring 45 millimeters in diameter and with a 14-inch chain strap, you are going to have no problem sporting this old-timey beauty wherever you go.
The ShoppeWatch Eagle Pocket Watch costs $29.
August Steiner Silver-Tone Pocket Watch
This exquisite silver beauty pairs best with formal attire, adding much-needed character to any outfit. It features a skeleton dial that showcases the precision and intricacy of the mechanical movement.
The sleekness comes from the engraved concentric circles, and a brushed bezel provides a smooth complement, displaying its elegant Roman numerals as one of the primary eye-catchers.
For the dial window, a sapphire-coated mineral crystal shines bright, ensuring flawless protection, and with a measurement of 47.5 millimeters, this watch already comes equipped with a sturdy endurance to any potential damage.
The August Steiner Silver-Tone Pocket Watch costs $64.
ManChDa Mechanical Skeleton Pocket Watch
Skeleton watches are able to demonstrate the intricate perfection it takes to create a piece of this magnitude. It demonstrates acts of incredible engineering on a microscale, which is why the ManChDa is one of the most appealing skeleton pocket watches I have ever seen.
With a transparent front and back, it allows full display of the gears inside, turning the piece into a luxurious spectacle that can fit right inside your pocket.
The luminous hands elevate it even more, allowing for flawless legibility even in the darkest of conditions. This watch has a Victorian vibe, contributing to the classical appeal all the more, and with the post-industrial edge, it’s sure to attract an assortment of admirers.
The ManChDa Mechanical Skeleton Pocket Watch costs $59.
The dramatic black tone of the numerals perfectly complements the Breguet-style hands, creating an incredible amount of classical brilliance reflected on the Provost.
This is a rather large case, measuring 48mm in diameter, and the Krysterna Crystals found on the front and back reinforce the skeleton aesthetic. The bezel is gorgeous as well, providing an incredibly detailed Step Design that adds much-needed texture.
Overall, the skeleton design and the smooth brushing of the dial are what stand out on this piece. The classical refinement is what sold me, and upon looking closer, you can spot an easy-to-miss detail that serves the aesthetic all the more.
This mechanical beauty is suitable for every special occasion, matching all suit styles with ease. The white, Roman-numbered dial is reminiscent of a Cartier design, with refined classical elements to give it that dignified antique look.
The front and back opening case is polished for a lustrous shine, opening to reveal the intricate skeleton face powered by a 17 jewel, 11-¾ ligne, three-hand mechanical movement that can reach 21,600 vph and 40 hours of power reserve.
You’re going to want to sport this piece on special occasions, as its elevated nature could come across as too formal in any other setting.
The Brelsen Royal Silver Double Hunter Pocket Watch costs $90.
IWC Pallweber Pocket Watch
The Pallweber’s hand-wound movement features two barrels, representing a thoroughly creative take on the traditional pocket watches that we’re used to. Unlike previous pieces, this pocket watch is very modern and fresh, incorporating a fresh, premium feel influenced by its materials.
The 18K gold case is a beauty, opening to a gorgeous display that features the hours and minutes in digital format with large numerals and rotating discs.
The sleek white pairs well with the pristine gold, making this one of the most unique and beautiful pieces on this list. This pocket watch is far from traditional, so it may not appeal to fans of more reserved designs.
But those whom it does attract will not be disappointed. It’s also worth mentioning that this watch is exceedingly rare as it is part of the Pallweber “150 Years” collection.
Because of this, the Pallweber is viewed as a very prestigious collector’s item and is priced extraordinarily high. It’s a gorgeous, incredibly unique work of art. This list would feel incomplete without giving it some sort of praise.
The IWC Pallweber Pocket Watch costs around $36,000.
This striking, open-faced timepiece follows a contemporary design that delivers a functional, stylish, and high-level performance directly to your pocket.
The intricate inner parts of the 17-jewel movement are visible from the face, putting on a mesmerising show. The silver tone of this variant is much more preferable, and, in my opinion, complements the low-key aesthetic all the more.
I should mention that the case is made from stainless steel, and it measures around 47 millimeters, delivering a well-maintained and balanced size that will accommodate its precise performance capabilities. The finish is impeccable as well, adding a subtle vintage vibe that ever-so-slightly contrasts with the modern look.
Bulova’s exceptional reputation extends to its pocket watch collection, with highly accurate, durable, and effortlessly stylish pieces highlighting a bold collection.
The Sutton is both classic and contemporary, with a synthetic sapphire crystal dial window that serves as both a good scratch-resistant option and an aesthetic highlight. This hunter pocket watch has an easy-to-flick stainless steel case that’s perfect against rust and corrosion.
The skeleton look on this piece is one of the best I’ve seen, revealing an automatic 8N24 movement that both looks and performs at a high-tier level. This watch is a mechanical beauty, and its sleek, silvery coloring reflects that reserved nature that so many, including myself, absolutely adore.
The Bulova Sutton Pocket Watch costs $357.
Dalvey Full Hunter Pocket Watch
The shimmering blue will immediately catch your eye on this beautiful piece from Dalvey. With finely cut textures and high-detail polishing on the stainless steel, this piece offers top-tier layering that serves the aesthetic incredibly well.
The face has an overwhelming amount of detail as well, with finely polished Roman numerals and an elegant sub-dial that rounds the dial out in perfect symmetry while also providing a good bit of character that serves as a foundation.
The steel is smooth, and the case front is simple, allowing for easy opening and maneuvering, and the Japanese quartz movement carries that simplicity to the inside of the piece, too.
The Dalvey Full Hunter Pocket Watch costs $279.
Rapport London Open Face Pocket Watch
This open-faced beauty displays its classical elegance at all times, making it a glorious accessory for everyday wear.
The thin, black Roman numerals and the minuscule blue hands really tie this piece together for me. Once again, this piece is reminiscent of a traditional Cartier design, and with the gold exterior, it’s an even more fitting comparison.
I’m a sucker for a symmetrical sub-dial. If done right, they have the potential to elevate the piece even more. This one in particular is very gorgeous and creates a tight, even feeling that delivers all the elements of this stunner in a nice little package.
The Rapport London Open Face Pocket Watch costs $400.
Tissot Savonnete Pocket Watch
Tissot claims that its pocket watches “are keeping the romance of timekeeping alive,” and with pieces like this, they may, in fact, be telling the truth.
This quartz pocket watch is silver all around, with the sleek dial catching the light, causing it to shimmer, and the elevated darkness of the Roman numerals being contrasted with the snowy-white dial.
The hands are paper thin, and there is a very small date window above the 6 o’clock, but other than that, this piece is very subtle and secure, with no outstanding features that are overwhelmingly glamorous, just the way Tissot intended.
Tissot is unmatched when it comes to simple designs that preserve the raw, unfiltered beauty of traditional timekeeping. Their pocket watches are no exception.
The Tissot Savonnete Pocket Watch costs $325.
Jeanne Pierre Quartz Full Hunter Pocket Watch
This prestigious piece is made for gentlemen who value style and sophistication above all else. With a timeless feel, Jeanne Pierre delivers us a gold-plated, stunningly polished, and expertly crafted device whose classical nature is reinforced by the traditional and clean aesthetic.
The pristine white dial with black Roman numerals follows in the footsteps of pieces that have come before, but that doesn’t mean they don’t embody their own creative design, as the elegant sword hands and date window on the 3 o’clock give this piece a unique flair.
With a case diameter of 48mm, you are going to enjoy every bit of this golden beauty, and the front case has sort of a diamond texture on the front, enriching your experience with another layer of detail.
The Jeanne Pierre Quartz Full Hunter Pocket Watch costs $200.
Breslin “To My Son” Lion Bronze Pocket Watch
This traditional bronze colored quartz pocket watch from Breselen is engraved with a lion crest and a “to my son” text along the front cover. When you open it up and peer inside, you are met with an elegant white dial with Breslin-styled Roman numerals and the “quartz” text residing above the 6 o’clock.
Though it is labeled as a bronze pocket watch, the true material is stainless steel, which gives it the appearance of authentic bronze. This may come across as disappointing, but the color is still fantastic, and even though it isn’t truly bronze, the front engraving and the classical beauty of the dial make up for it more than enough.
The Breslin “To My Son” Lion Bronze Pocket Watch costs $51.
Modern engineering meets classic elegance in this skeletonized beauty. The intricate inner workings are on full display, reflecting the iconic Sturhling look that so many have fallen in love with. The 30-hour power reserve ensures consistent timekeeping and reliability, maintaining an 18,000 vph frequency at all times.
The 19-jewel movement offers flawless durability and a smooth feel, and the stainless steel case has a very robust finish that pairs perfectly with the white dial. This piece is gorgeous.
I love how enough of the movement is visible to serve as a perfect contrast to the white coloring. Overall, this is one of my favorite aesthetic pieces on this list.
This distinguished piece is crafted from 18k rose gold with a hunter case that provides protection and a sapphire crystal screw down case back.
The Arabic numeral hour markers are a nice change of pace from the seemingly endless Roman numeral pieces, and the slender hands give a very tight feel to the piece, one that is compact and reserved.
The dial itself is a faint white, blending seamlessly with the rose gold, and there’s a little sub dial hanging just above the 6 o’clock mark that is very easy to miss.
As expected from Patek Philippe, this piece is not cheap, but do remember that it’s made from pure 18k rose gold. It’s a stunner, but being made from high-level materials such as this unfortunately demands a hefty price tag.
The Patek Philippe 980-R Hunter-Case Pocket Watch costs around $47,000.
Tiffany & Co. Movado Gold Pocket Watch
This Swiss-made gold piece is a classic antique straight out of the 40s. Measuring 43mm in diameter, this piece is very small and compact, but you can be sure that it maintains its original condition despite its age.
Made from 14k gold, this piece is yet another compactly designed beauty, and when you slide off the caseback, it becomes even more impressive when you see the paper-thin Movado movement working overtime.
Speaking of the case, it is engraved with initials that maintain a sense of antiquity, fully embodying the historic legacy of this timeless design.
The Tiffany & Co. Movado Gold Pocket Watch costs $3,000.
Gotham Men’s Classic Silver-Tone Pocket Watch
This is a modern-looking pocket watch that I find to be very out there in terms of its aesthetic. It’s reminiscent of divers’ watches that those who love to traverse the water love to wear, so it may pair well with boating attire, though I would not recommend jumping in with this piece.
Features include a precision 17 jewel mechanical small seconds hand movement, which fuels the quite large case size of 54mm, and a white ceramic dial that is contrasted quite nicely by thick, black numerals and a set of very large navy blue hands.
I enjoy looking at the little sub-dial that resides under the 6 o’clock, as all the detail serves the silvery case very well.
The Gotham Men’s Classic Silver-Tone Pocket Watch costs $239.
For the last piece on this list, we have one of the most unique-looking Stuhrling pieces I have ever seen. The Modena has an exhibition case back and chain, and the almost completely skeletonized dial provides a perfect vision of the very intricate design.
This watch has two sub-dials, one at the standard 6 o’clock position and the other just below the 12 o’clock.
The top sub-dial is decorated with a little moon design, providing a splotch of dark color on the otherwise bright palette. Fans of unique pieces will love this. It’s bold, but it’s also extremely brilliant. Sturhling knows how to design pocket watches, that’s for sure.
The Sturhling Modena 991 Automatic Skeleton Pocket Watch costs $1,250.
Conclusion
Whether it’s the antiques of the past or the pieces that have been refined to carry a newfound sense of classical elegance, pocket watches will always be among the most beautiful trinkets in the world.
While they may not be as useful or convenient as they once were, no one can deny the technical brilliance and revolutionary qualities that are still felt to this day.
They deserve our respect, and anyone who has declared themselves a fan of timekeeping must be aware of the brilliant engineering that has inspired the pieces of today.
I hope that this list has shed some insight on the pieces to look out for, and, I will say, despite the obvious outliers, high-quality pocket watches are usually priced very well, especially compared to wrist-watches of the same caliber.
Over the years, it has become a more niche market, but that does make entry a little bit easier for new enthusiasts wanting to get in.
I wish you luck on your pocket watch journey, and I encourage you to save some respect for the brilliant minds of the past and know that without them, the watch world would look very, very different.
High-end craftsmanship is meant to come at a cost. Think of the priceless material and the tedious attention to detail it requires to craft a piece that stands the test of time and ascends to the top of the market.
These big-name brands have earned their title for a reason. You are paying for all of their class, all of their style, and all of their heritage.
That being said, there are some outliers in the market that offer the same level of elevated engineering at a fraction of the cost.
If you are new to the luxury market space or want to learn more, my best advice would be to start small. Or, more specifically, look for high-quality quartz watches as they are notorious for being moderately priced.
My goal for today is to provide you with extraordinary pieces that guarantee you are getting the luxury experience, all from a price pool that you wouldn’t expect.
These are the kind of watches that have been tested and reviewed, with high ratings across the board, ensuring that as we dive in, the features and qualities presented will prove to satisfy your needs as a consumer.
Pay attention to the pieces discussed and be thinking about what your dream watch could look like. Who knows, it could be hiding in this list.
What to look for
Wondering how to choose the right watch for you? Think of your favorite qualities from your favorite watches. It could be the shape, material choice, dial design, or perhaps the brand itself.
Whatever your preference is, out of the 22 watches we will look at today, there is bound to be something you will enjoy. Look out for those qualities, and any other standout feature you can think of.
I hope this list finds you well and I hope you’re able to narrow down your favorite luxury pieces to make your journey through the market all the easier.
Orient Bambino 38mm
Beginning our list is the simple sophistication of the Orient Bambino. This Japanese watch gives off a vintage appeal that mixes well with the blue dial hands, enriching the case with a faint splash of color.
My personal favorite model of the Bambino is the beige-colored dial with a dark brown crocodile strap to further implement that dated look. The stainless steel isn’t too flashy, and it provides an ample view of the F6724 automatic movement, which powers the watch with a reserve of 40 hours.
This is a rather slim piece, measuring 38.4mm in diameter and only weighing 54 grams, so it will appeal to those who prefer smaller dimensions.
The Orient Bambino costs $250-$300.
AX Armani Exchange Chronograph
Armani is unapologetic for making pieces that some will enjoy and some will not. Their designs are bold and stylish, appealing to some who enjoy that extra flavor while deterring others who prefer a much more moderate tone. One thing everyone can agree on, however, is their affordable prices.
The Armani Exchange is a standard Armani piece equipped with stainless steel and measuring 45mm in diameter. It has a sleek, silvery dial, with hands of the same tone, all complementing one another, with three subdials adding more texture to the layout.
Inside, the Japanese quartz powers the piece with a surprising amount of accuracy for the price. Not everyone is expected to gravitate towards the design, but it is an extraordinarily made watch; there’s no debating that.
It’s a different style than the majority of luxury watches you’ll see on the market, and that’s ok. Armani watchmakers are experts at their craft and the level of precision needed to engineer something of this caliber is enough to make me respect them.
The AX Armani Exchange Chronograph costs $139.
Citizen Tsuyosa Automatic
Coming in with a colorful splash is the Tsuyosa Automatic. This debut from Citizen comes in a 40mm case and a wide variety of colorful dials with a three o’clock date aperture and elegant-looking baton markers.
Inside, the watch features the Citizen in-house caliber 8210, visible through the open case back so that its wearer can view the 21,600 vph beauty that houses 40 hours of power reserve. It’s obvious that colorful variety is what Citizen was going for here, and they did not disappoint.
Wearers get five variations of dials (black, blue, green, yellow, and turquoise), each providing their unique flavor aesthetic to spice up the rest of the piece.
Overall, this is a very simple watch that seems like it was made for everyone. The multitude of colors will attract fans of all different styles, and the straightforward structure of the dial will satisfy most Citizen fans.
The Citizen Tsuyosa Automatic costs $360.
Bulova Marine Star
The Marine Star aims to capture a very modern appeal with its deep blue face. Upon first glance, you are immediately enthralled with the high-detail aesthetic brought forward by the three different subdials and the pointy sword hands that demand their own level of attention.
The stainless steel is smooth, and the bracelet is tight, but this watch measures rather large, with a diameter of 43mm and a thickness of 13mm.
The chronograph features really serve the watch in terms of symmetry, giving a well-rounded, polished look that will appeal to many diver fans, as the textured sides complement the design to perfection.
The Bulova Marine Star costs $330.
Seiko Presage Cocktail Time
In 2017, Seiko came out with the Presage Cocktail Time series, offering an expanded collection of cocktail-inspired 40.5mm dress watches with bright, sunburst dials.
Seiko is no stranger to making gorgeous dials that steal the show; these intricate dial patterns are reminiscent of a cut-glass cocktail tumbler (which was the intention), and the unique colors catch your eye almost immediately, with a glossy finish to completely change the entire look depending on your lighting conditions.
The hour markers are simple, serving the purpose of complementing the dial even more, and the large, plain numbers blend nicely with the diamond-esque shape and pattern.
The Seiko Presage Cocktail Time costs $340.
Timex x Todd Snyder MK-1 Amalfi
Timex and Todd Snyder continue their wonderful partnership to deliver us the MK-1 Amalfi, a 36mm beauty with a cream dial and gold-hand indexes that make for perfect everyday wear.
This is a sporty watch through and through as it looks to be meant to be worn on the green, hitting golf balls with business associates.
It has a very conservative and laid-back aesthetic, as it is supposedly inspired by Mediterranea vacations. The hand-wound mechanical movement further testifies to that casual vibe, as those who prefer a more casual, less demanding presence on the wrist will undoubtedly be drawn to this piece.
The Timex x Todd Snyder MK-1 Amalfi costs $239.
Hamilton Khaki Field Watch
The history of field watches is highlighted by the Hamilton Khaki. This rugged, durable, accurate, and good-looking watch is a certified classic, as its simplicity has transcended the years, continuing to satisfy customers no matter what is in style.
There is no date window; this watch doesn’t need one. There’s only the time with 24-hour “military time” markers which is a callback to the military heritage this watch hails from. The measurement is simple as well, coming in at 38mm, and the hand-wound movement is easy and precise, prioritizing utility as well as style.
The Hamilton Khaki Field Watch costs $488.
Tissot T-Classic PRX
Tissot has become world-renowned for producing top-tier, authentic Swiss watches for a marginal cost. This PRX, for example, comes in a perfectly balanced 39.5mm case, affirming a modest taste while being bold enough to appear fresh.
The steel and navy color scheme is fit for any attire, serving as an everyday piece and as a true luxurious statement.
Where the piece shines is the quartz movement, which is why Tissot is able to list these kinds of pieces at the prices they do. The simple winding doesn’t demand any high-tech intricacy, allowing Tissot to focus on the quality and style of the aesthetic, giving that iconic Swiss-made apparel.
The Tissot T-Classic PRX costs $350.
Seiko Presage SRPG05
This sleek piece is part dress watch and part dive watch, combining the best features from both, throwing in a sleek vintage look that is easy to style with suiting and also looks great with casual attire. This is one of those pieces that will compliment anything you wear, giving no real reason to ever take it off.
It comes in a traditional 40mm diameter, giving a familiar ruggedness that reminds you of its diver roots, with a waterproof edge that lets you feel safe while wearing it. This is Seiko at its best, producing a piece fit for everyone with an objectively elegant aesthetic. I wouldn’t be able to tell you somebody this watch isn’t for.
The Seiko Presage SRPG05 costs $374
Citizen Promaster Dive
Funny enough, the Citizen Promaster Dive is technically marketed as a women’s watch, but men will have no problem fitting this beauty on, it may just wear a little tighter.
Measuring 37mm, this watch isn’t even the smallest piece on this list, and it has a 200m dive rating, which is very rare for a standard women’s piece.
The soft, flexible band is very appealing to those who enjoy aquatic adventures, and the Solar Quart movement gears this piece up for the ultimate outdoor experience. The design is beautiful as well, with a navy blue dial and stubby sword hands that blend nicely with the larger indices.
The face is highly visible, which causes hardcore divers to love it. Both men and women can enjoy this watch while sailing the seas or traveling beneath them. It’s something everyone can appreciate.
The Citezen Promaster Dive costs $300
Invicta Pro Diver Quartz
Here we go. The Invicta Pro Diver is one of those pieces that make you go “wow.” This thing is bold; it’s out there, and you either love it or you don’t. Seeing that two-tone watches were out of fashion for an extended amount of time, their triumphant return has been very welcome, and Invitca has taken advantage.
A richly colored blue dial brings together this gold and silver look, giving a royal essence to the aesthetic. The quartz movement is solid, and the 43mm case size makes every feature stand out even more.
If I could describe this piece in one word, it would be “fun.” That’s it. It’s not for everyone, but those who it is for will very much enjoy it.
The Invicta Pro Diver Quartz costs $149.
Frederique Constant Classics Quartz
Another Swiss-made watches to add to this collection, the Frederique Constant comes in a beautiful, inky black dial with silvery-white hands that blend perfectly with the silver case.
The leather strap matches the tone of the dial, all held together by a simple quartz movement that is yet again the reason for the extremely affordable price.
This watch also has subdials, which add a little more detail to the pallet, and the Roman numeral indices will appeal to those die-hard Cartier fans who want to feel like they’re getting a similar experience. With a 39mm diameter, this piece screams simplicity, with nothing too wild sticking out, adding to the appeal all the more.
The Frederique Constant Classics Quartz costs $650
Oris Divers Heritage Sixty-Five Automatic
Switching gears to an elevated price pool, we have the Oris Divers Heritage, a much more traditional luxury watch at a price you would expect.
While these next few watches will be more expensive than the ones previously discussed, please keep in mind that everything on this list is relatively “cheap.”
This is a very expensive industry, and when you’re dealing with pristine materials and flawless engineering, the price will absolutely reflect that.
With that being said, the Oris Divers Heritage Sixty-Five Automatic rounds out to about $2,000. It holds onto the iconic high-quality craftsmanship that Oris is well known for, and it is powered by the Swiss automatic Orient caliber 733 with a power reserve of 38 hours.
The classic dial will please long-time Oris fans as its simplicity breathes a sporty essence into the already refined aesthetic, and the bezel takes a classier approach that rounds out the entire design.
As I said before, the Oris Divers Heritage Sixty-Five Automatic costs $2,000
Omega De Ville Prestige
This classic is a fundamental beauty that ranks among my absolute favorite dress watches of all time. It features a very preserved and laid-back aesthetic, with a silvery-white theme that checks all of the boxes.
The dial is sleek, the hands are elegant, and the 40mm case is beautifully polished to give it that nice shine.
It also boasts an extremely powerful 27-jewel COSC-certified movement with co-axial escapement to give it a healthy power reserve of up to 55 hours. What can I say? I’m a sucker for steel on steel and for Omega in general. This watch just speaks to me.
The Omega De Ville Prestige costs $4,900
IWC Pilot’s Automatic 36
IWC is world famous for its pilot watches. First developed over 80 years ago with the goal of providing a reliable instrument for airborne navigation, IWC has only evolved its design, bringing us masterpiece after masterpiece.
This version features a jet-black dial with a stainless steel bracelet. Nothing too extreme, but the aesthetic is very neat and orderly, providing a very compact appeal that goes quite nicely together.
As the name suggests, this is a fairly thin watch, measuring only 36mm in diameter, so those of you who gravitate toward smaller measurements will most likely find this more appealing than previous IWC Pilot designs. And, of course, what is a Pilot watch without the iconic plane symbol engraved on the case back? This watch is a beauty.
The IWC Pilot’s Automatic 36 costs $5,600
Cartier Ronde Must De Cartier
With Roman Numerals, blue apple-shaped hands, a winding mechanism with a sapphire crown, and a rail-track minute circle, The Ronde Must De follows the classic staples of a Cartier design. The case is made of stainless steel, and the dial is a smooth white, serving as a beautiful contrast to the dark blue hands.
This piece is electrifying and is one of the cheapest Cartier pieces I have ever seen; it is seriously worth considering if you’re in the market for a prestigious watch.
Cartier saves money with a traditional quartz movement, but that doesn’t take away the fact that they’re the second highest-selling Swiss watch brand in the world, so if you find a piece like this with a price this low, it’s seriously worth taking a closer look at.
The Cartier Ronde Must De Cartier costs $3,300
Grand Seiko Snowflake
This list would feel incomplete without adding the cheapest watch from Grand Seiko’s luxury brand, the Snowflake. With the distinct snowflake-like dial that gives the piece its name, this is truly one of the most underrated gems of the watch world and is an absolutely breathtaking work of art.
The gorgeous dial is made even better by the pair of silvery hands that slice along the white surface and—my favorite part—the light blue second hand that perfectly contrasts the entire pallet.
This is another silver-on-silver watch, and as you know, that’s right up my alley. It is a clean, elegant design made by some of the most genius minds in the watch world.
The Grand Seiko Snowflake costs $4,000
Tag Heuer Carrera Date
The Tag Heuer Carrera Date is engineered to satisfy both luxury sports watch fans and those who love dressier pieces.
The stepped bezel fiddles with the light, causing the watch to take different shapes depending on your lighting conditions, and the sunray brushed surface of the dial makes you intently study the impressive display.
A very silvery aesthetic, this time with a black crocodile leather strap that elevates the look, and with a measurement of 39mm in diameter, you’re getting the perfect size for a watch of this caliber.
The Tag Heuer Carrera Date costs $3,300
Tudor 1926
Often considered Rolex’s direct relative, it makes sense that Tudor would have pieces of the same quality but at a far cheaper price.
The 1926 is well known for its “Rolex-like” features and its miniscule price. What catches my eye the most is the waffle pattern on the dial that provides an extraordinary texture and feel to the entire piece.
I like how it catches the light, and the blue indices were a genius design choice, as they pair well with the detailed layout.
Measuring 39mm, this watch feels much thinner than it actually is, which does wonders for the aesthetic as well. I can’t imagine anything bigger complimenting the design nearly as much. It’s a reserved style. Very beautiful indeed.
The Tudor 1926 costs $2,225
Tissot Excellence
The slim case of the Tissot Excellence is made possible by the ETA 2892 movement that can be admired through the open caseback. This makes the watch extraordinarily comfortable around the wrist with a timeless wear that perfectly represents Tissot’s commitment to excellence.
The 40mm case is made of 18k gold, which is very surprising for the price, and the symmetrical roundness of the design combined with the gorgeous crocodile leather strap will appeal to almost everyone.
The Roman numerals on the dial are true stunners as well, complimenting the golden shade with an equally elevated presence that embodies an extremely luxurious tone.
The Tissot Excellence costs $2,895
Breitling Endurance Pro
This technical marvel is designed to perform in the harshest environment as the thermocompensated SuperQuartz movement serves as the heart of this gigantic unit. As you would expect, this piece is far from subtle, but the quartz chrono feature is too special to leave out of this list.
Fans of sporty watches go crazy for this kind of thing, and it’s easy to see why. The 44mm case is engineered for any obstacle, any environment, and any condition. It can also dive into 100m deep waters, providing high efficiency and sustainability for all of your sporty needs.
The Breitling Endurance Pro costs $3,400
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 34
Finally, rounding out our list, we have Rolex in its most simple form, the Oyster Perpetual. This watch is well-loved and well-respected, as it’s the cheapest in Rolex’s catalog, but it also delivers that same swagger and authenticity that this legendary brand is known for.
The Oyster case, Oyster bracelet, and Perpetual no-date movement have become staples in and of themselves, deeming this watch as an all-time classic.
The key to saving money is going for the 34mm, which is technically classified as a women’s watch, but small to medium-wrist-sized men will have no problem slipping it on.
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 34 costs $5,800
Conclusion
As our list concludes I cannot recommend enough that if you’re in the market, seriously consider picking up one of these pieces for yourself so that you can take advantage of these incredible prices.
These brands have stood against the test of time and have emerged as staples in the industry that continue to innovate and excite with every new release.
I hope I could help you narrow down your search, and if you’re new to the watch world, I hope you have a deeper understanding of what true luxury looks like and what to expect from masterful watch designers such as these.
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