Luxury horology has always been synonymous with exclusivity. And the principle manner in which these gates are kept is pricing: names like Rolex, Omega, Richard Mille, or Jaeger-LeCoultre can be eye-wateringly expensive.
While we’d all love to own a new Speedmaster, that’s not in the cards for most of us.
That said, the watch world is also deeply stratified, divided into price ranges where competition is fierce and innovation is essential. Below roughly $4,000, outstanding watches that punch well above their price point are common.
Many will become the new stars in the horological firmament, and collectors are excited about what new offerings they can find in this ever-evolving luxury niche.
Let’s take a deep dive into the best watches under $4,000, exploring models that anyone would be proud to own.
Longines Spirit Zulu Time
Ask any true aficionado, and they’ll tell you that the Longines Spirit Zulu Time is a watch to own, however much you can afford to spend on a timepiece.
Reflecting its tool watch heritage among pilots, the Spirit Zulu Time offers rugged good looks, a caller-style GMT complication that lets you keep track of a second time zone at a glance, and a heavily-modified Calibre L844.4 based on the ETA A31.L01.
In plain English, that means chronometer precision (-4/+6 seconds per day) and impressive, no-hassle durability.
That makes the Spirit Zulu Time a watch you can really wear. Office, dinner, drinks, the beach, sports: this Longines has you covered.
With 10 bar water resistance, you don’t need to worry about a quick dip in the pool, being splashed by waves, or a heavy downpour as the heavens open up in the sky over Kuala Lumpur.
My preference is for the stainless case with the matte black dial. To my eye, that provides a sharp contrast, making this watch easy to read but also keeping its aesthetic sensibilities subdued.
The Spirit Zulu Time isn’t flashy or gaudy. Instead, it’s the look you’d expect to see on the wrist of a commercial pilot, a world traveler, or an adventurous businessman on vacation.
Available in both 38 and 42mm versions, with or without gold details, and offering several dial and bezel colors, the Longines Spirit Zulu Time retails for $3,300.
TAG Heuer Carrera Date
Inspired by the adrenaline-fueled Carrera Panamericana, TAG Heuer’s Carrera is a watch with racing in its DNA.
Sleek, elegant, and deceptively simple, the Carrera looks fast. Brushed and polished stainless steel, a fluted crown, carefully designed hour markers, and a blue dial so saturated by color that it makes the Greek coast envious: that’s what the Carrera delivers.
TAG houses its Caliber 5 movement, typically an ETA 2824-2 or Sellita SW200-1 (depending on supply and availability), in that slim case.
Reliable, accurate, and easy-to-service, these Swiss movements are well-regarded, entry-level options that reflect the price-point of this timepiece.
An in-house movement from them would be vastly more expensive.
Nevertheless, the Carrera is a beautiful watch with exquisite machining and quality control, as well as TAG Heuer’s signature aesthetics.
This is a timepiece that’s as close as it gets to a “one and done” purchase, and from a night out in SoHo to lounging by the pool, the Carrera makes a strong statement while being easy to wear.
The TAG Heuer Carrera retails for roughly $3,900.
Carl F. Bucherer Manero AutoDate
High horology and under-$4,000 price points are anything but typical, but then so is Carl F. Bucherer’s Manero AutoDate. A stunning homage to the style choices of the 1960’s, this Manero has the sophistication and luxury aesthetics that set it apart from the current trend toward tool watches.
Control, reserve, discernment: that’s what the Manero AutoDate signifies on your wrist. Leave the clout-chasing flash to others: the Manero signals taste and old-moneyed concern for value.
Designed with a 38mm case that houses the CFB 1965 movement, a heavily modified Sellita SW300, Bucherer’s Manero AutoDate offers an elegant dial, exquisite finishing, and real-world inspired legibility, a hallmark of designs that originate when watches were necessary.
Very easy on the eyes, this subtle testament to taste is an outstanding choice if your personal style pulls you closer to dressy casual or your daily office wear includes a suit or jacket.
The MSRP for the Manero AutoDate is approximately $3,400.
Oris ProPilot GMT
I’ve been a fan of Oris for decades, and in my book, they’re always an excellent choice for collectors and users who want something a little different.
Their ProPilot GMT demonstrates why.
Bold color choices for the dial, stunning details like the diagonally-fluted bezel edge, and a woven nylon strap that pairs perfectly with the gray PVD-coated case: the aesthetics are energetic, powerful, and eye-grabbing.
If you want attention on your wrist, if you need a flash of color, a pop that sets you apart as a trend-setter, the ProPilot GMT is on point.
Housing the 798-1, a house-modified Sellita SW330-1, it’s equipped with a GMT function in the caller-style, pairing a second hour hand to a 24-hour bezel to track a second time zone.
Reliable and robust, the 798-1 adds details like Oris’s signature red rotor, as well as refinements and improvements throughout.
Oris’s ProPilot GMT retails for $3,500.
Sinn 103 St DIAPAL
German watchmaking and Sinn are all but synonyms, and if you’re searching for high-mechanical precision and uncompromising Teutonic tech, look no further.
Sinn’s heritage in pilot watches shows clearly here, and the 103 St DIAPAL is as packed with technical prowess as the F-35.
Inside, you’ll find the watchmaker’s vaunted DIAPAL friction-free nanotechnology, an Ar-dehumidifying case design, a column-wheel chronograph, and a fixed bezel with caller-style GMT function.
That’s a lot of horological know-how in one watch, and enthusiasts are well aware of the incredible value for money the 103 St DIAPAL offers.
Sinn begins by transforming the Sellita SW 500 into something far more sexy than its stock option, housing this movement in an uncompromising case design that’s as robust as it is handsome. Some watches need to be pampered; the 103 St DIAPAL doesn’t, and wherever your life takes you, it’s ready.
To me, the gray and polished stainless steel combination is heart-stopping.
Expect this watch to retail for roughly $4,000.
Yema Superman Dato CMM.10
French watchmaking has a long and storied tradition, too, and Yema is a prime example of what Gallic horology has to offer.
Consider the Superman Dato CMM.10.
Built around an in-house CMM.10 movement that’s capable of startling accuracy (+5/-3 seconds per day), as well as substantial power reserve (70 hours), the Superman Dato delivers a high-mechanical beating heart fitted in a svelte diver case.
Less is more with this Yema, and the simply-marked bezel, clean dial, and unique bracelet design add up to a handsome timepiece that isn’t afraid to showcase the brand’s long tradition of dive and pilot’s watches.
And not all of the details are visible. For instance, the rotating bezel is locked in place to prevent accidents, and to disengage that lock, you press down on it and turn. That’s a dynamite feature, no question about it, and a testament to Yema’s continued innovation.
I really appreciate the understated dial and bezel design of the Superman Dato CMM.10, and as a daily wearer, this is a very hard dive watch to beat.
Expect to pay approximately $1,890 for this timepiece.
Nomos Club Sport Neomatik 39 Tabac
Nomos is known for stunning aesthetics, and their Club Sport Neomatik 39 Tabac is a great example of why. Designed with a rich, warm, brown dial, it’s both reserved and fashion-forward, extravagant and foundational.
Nomos equips this watch with its amazingly efficient, in-house DUW 300 movement, a true testament to innovative design and technical prowess. Losing less energy to friction, just a paltry five percent, the DUW 300 also includes Nomos’s proprietary escapement.
For those in the know, Nomos’s craftsmanship and care elevate this watch beyond many of its competitors, especially those that rely on standard Swiss movements, whatever their modifications.
A simple, clean, stainless case and matching bracelet showcase the brown sunburst dial, but the choice of color for the Tabac keeps it subdued and classy rather than garish.
For me, the Club Sport Neomatic 39 exemplifies what I’m looking for in the under $4,000 category: a home-grown movement, innovative design, and sophisticated good looks.
MSRP for this watch sits at $3,520.
Raymond Weil Millesime
An award-winning design from Raymond Weil, the Millesime was an easy choice for my shortlist. Taking home the coveted GPHG Challenge Prize for best watch under CHF 2,000 in 2023, its legend has only grown.
Powered by the Calibre RW4251, a Raymond Weil modified Sellita SW261‑1 with aesthetic embellishments typical of the brand, you can expect excellent accuracy and easy servicing.
The RW4251 doesn’t enable multiple complications: it drives a hour and minute hands and a small-seconds complication at the 6.
The result is an artful dial design that saves details for the outer edges of the dial, marking minutes and seconds with precision.
Further details enhance the eye-catching appeal of this watch, and it’s easy to see why judges were so very impressed by what the Millesime has to offer.
If you need a dressier design than a diver, Raymond Weil’s Millesime is a subtle sign that you have discerning taste in timepieces.
This timepiece retails for $2,404.
Maen Manhattan 39 Ultra Thin
Maen’s Manhattan 39 Ultra Thin shares aesthetic cues with watches like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and Patek Philippe Nautilus without being an homage design.
Designed to be very easy to wear, the Manhattan’s leans into elegant sophistication and daily functionality, marking this watch out as one of a few options that define wearable luxury.
Equipped with the manual-winding ETA 7001, driving just an hour and minute hand, Maen emphasizes a clean, bold look.
That movement also allows the Manhattan 39 to be truly ultra-thin, and there are few mechanical designs that can compete with its daily wearability as a result.
An avant-garde case and bezel design, as well as telling details like a vertically brushed Côtes de Genève-style texture, really enhance its visual appeal, and if you’re looking for a statement of sophistication, you’ll struggle to do better.
Maen’s understated – even minimal – design cues add up to a timepiece that moves easily between casual and business, another option for the “one and done” timepiece that’s just about perfect for everything.
Expect to pay roughly $1,217 for the Manhattan 39 Ultra Slim.
Conclusion
For many watch enthusiasts, dominant brands like Rolex, Grand Seiko, or Audemars Piguet offer unattainable luxury, and most of us can’t finance a car and a timepiece with equal justification. But that doesn’t mean that we’re locked-out of the watch world.
Far from it.
Under a cap of $4,000, you’ll find innovation, competition, and craftsmanship that’s a pleasant surprise – if you know where to look.
To put “Swiss Made” on a watch, it has to meet some rules. For example, at least 60% of the manufacturing cost must come from Switzerland.
There’s a lot of debate over whether those two little words really matter anymore, but getting that label isn’t cheap—especially when you think of big brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, or Audemars Piguet.
But we’re not trying to break the bank here. Let’s keep things affordable—under $1,000 (or 1k for the Gen Z crowd).
Tissot PRX
The Tissot PRX has taken the watch world by storm. It was so popular at one point that it was selling for more than its retail price.
You can get it in 42mm, 40mm, 35mm, and even 25mm sizes—great for all wrist sizes. It also comes in different materials like stainless steel or carbon, and there’s even a version with diamonds on the dial.
With over 60 different variations, the PRX could take up this whole list by itself. You can also choose between an automatic or quartz movement.
Personally, I’d go with quartz—you can buy two for the price of one automatic. This is a great entry-level Swiss watch that still looks expensive. My wife even confused it with an AP Royal Oak once! The 40mm automatic version sells for $775 USD.
Hamilton Khaki Murph
The Hamilton Khaki line already has a big fan base, and the Murph model made it even more popular. It comes in just under 1k, with an MSRP of $995.
The case is 38mm wide and 11.1mm thick, which makes it super wearable and great for everyday use. The dial has a retro look, with big hour numbers and minute markers every 5 minutes.
What’s cool is that Hamilton actually listened to fans when designing this watch—it’s the kind of piece real collectors wanted. Right now, it’s even sold out on Hamilton’s website. Who knows—maybe you’ll be the one to inspire their next design.
Formex Field Automatic
I’m a big fan of salmon-colored dials—they just make a watch look more expensive. The Formex Field is a 40mm watch made from Grade 2 titanium, which makes it super light and tough.
It even boasts a 900 Vickers hardness, which basically means it can take a beating. The watch also comes in Ice Blue and Balast Gray, but let’s be honest—salmon wins.
It has a quick-adjust clasp and a quick-change strap system—both features you usually find on watches that cost way more. With 150 meters of water resistance, this thing is ready for daily wear. It’s made to order and priced at $870 USD.
Mondaine STOP2GO
If you’ve ever been to Switzerland and used their trains, you’ve probably seen those iconic clocks on the platforms. Well, now you can wear one on your wrist.
The Mondaine STOP2GO has a 41mm case and 30 meters of water resistance. There’s no crown—instead, you use a special pen to set the time. That alone makes it pretty unique.
Another cool detail: the lume is applied under the hour markers, creating a nice shadow effect when it lights up.
Longines Conquest
When I first got into watches, YouTubers were all over the Longines Conquest, calling it the best value out there. I seriously thought about getting one, but I ended up choosing a TAG Heuer Formula 1 instead.
(Don’t judge—it’s a solid watch.) Still, the Conquest was a close second. It comes in 29mm, 34mm, 41mm, and 43mm sizes.
I loved the sunray blue dial. It also has a date function and 30 meters of water resistance. It’s the most affordable way to get into Longines, a well-known Swiss brand.
MIDO Multifort Patrimony
Let’s add a little vintage style to the list. The Mido Multifort Patrimony in Anthracite gives off Code 11.59 vibes from AP. That might be a stretch, but the design has that kind of elegance.
It’s a 40mm watch with a 12mm thickness, and the dial is the star here. It’s a deep gray-brown color with bold 3, 6, 9, and 12 numerals.
There’s a date function and a pulsimeter scale—handy for checking your pulse after staring at how good it looks. It also features an 80-hour power reserve and Mido’s vintage logo. It’s my personal favorite from this list. Retail price? $980 USD.
Zodiac Olympos
Most watches are round. The Zodiac Olympos says, “Let’s be different.” Its manta ray–shaped case almost looks like a spaceship on your wrist. It’s a 37mm watch with 50 meters of water resistance, and it only comes on a leather strap.
There’s a version with a green dial and orange seconds hand that really stands out. The dial is split into four parts, giving it a bold, unusual look. It’s hard to explain—but once you see it, you’ll get it. You can check it out at Exquisite Timepieces. MSRP is $995 USD.
Moonswatch
When the MoonSwatch first dropped, it was a huge deal. You had to buy them in person, and people waited in long lines just to get one.
The hype cooled down for a bit, but every time Swatch releases a new version, the buzz comes right back. I got one about a year after launch.
The only one available was Jupiter, and honestly—it’s really nice. The design is based on the Omega Speedmaster, with a 42mm case, 30 meters of water resistance, and a velcro strap.
It’s fine, but I’d recommend swapping it for a NATO strap. If I had to pick one model, it would be the 1965 edition—white dial, gray strap, black text. The MoonSwatch costs just $270 USD, and only four versions are available to buy online.
Conclusion
Finding a great Swiss-made watch under $1,000 isn’t always easy. When I was putting this list together, I found a lot of options that were either just over 1k or twice the price. But here’s the thing—you don’t need to spend a ton to wear something you love.
My favorite on this list is the Mido, but I still wear my MoonSwatch all the time. At the end of the day, it’s all about what you like. You’re the one wearing it, and you’re the one who gets to smile every time you check your wrist.
What features do we generally want in a watch? Accuracy and reliability, certainly. Durability is good, as is a style that suits our taste and how we plan to wear it.
Automat ic, manual, or quartz movement, and whatever complications we feel are necessary or desired. One that we don’t want to overlook is water resistance.
The level of water resistance you want will naturally vary depending on the type of watch. For example, a classy dress watch really only needs 30-50 meters to protect your timepiece in a rainstorm.
Tool watches are often what we like to wear on an adventure. If you are planning to kayak, jet ski, swim, or dive wearing your watch, you need a significantly higher level of water resistance.
In addition to water resistance, we still want all of those other desirable features. After all, what good is a watch that can survive at the bottom of the sea if it doesn’t keep good time, doesn’t last long, is hard to read, or just looks awful?
There are many water-resistant watches on the market, and it can be tricky to find the one that suits you best. We are here to help.
How to Choose the Right Water-Resistant Watch for You
Seeking the ideal water-resistant watch for your preferences and style is very similar to choosing a watch in general. Your budget is a prime consideration, as there are brands and models with varying price points.
You also want to get value for your money, so as we said earlier, accuracy, reliability, and durability are important considerations.
Color, style, and materials are important. If this is to be your adventure watch, you may just want a neutral color like black, white, or navy blue.
If this is a watch to be a fashion accessory, consider what you will typically wear it with, and choose the color accordingly.
In terms of style, there are water-resistant watches that lean toward the dressy side and others that are more rugged-looking. Consider that.
As to materials, you probably don’t want precious metals if you plan to be in the water with your timepiece. Stainless steel or lightweight titanium are good options in that case. If you’re looking for a desk diver, by all means, consider gold or platinum, if you’ve got the budget for it.
Water-resistant watches are available with pretty much any complication you may desire. Do you prefer a date, day, chronograph, power reserve indicator, or moon phase? Look for those in your search.
What kind of movement do you prefer? Automatics are highly desired. If you go that route, consider how much power reserve you need. Quartz is a good option for its greater accuracy and convenience.
A strap or bracelet is another choice. If you are going to be in the water, you do not want a leather strap. Getting it wet will ruin it.
Stainless steel or titanium is your best bracelet option. In terms of straps, go with rubber or silicone. A cloth strap like a NATO is fine for the water, but keep in mind, it will soak up moisture and take time to dry out. If you are staying on dry land, all options will work.
Now that you know what to look for, let’s take a look at 15 excellent water-resistant watches for you to consider.
Best Water-Resistant Watches
Here is our list of the 15 best water-resistant watches on the market. Naturally, such lists are subjective, but we carefully chose these, and they are all fine timepieces.
Before you say, “Hey, where’s the Rolex Submariner?”, yes, it’s a great watch. But one of the factors we’ve considered is availability, and given its enormous popularity, you are not likely to walk into a Rolex AD and depart with a Submariner without a lengthy wait. Let’s get to the ones you can obtain more easily.
Citizen Promaster Dive
If your budget is tight, you can’t go far wrong with the Citizen Promaster Dive. The bold 45 mm stainless steel case with its Promaster screw down crown, has 200 meters of water resistance.
An aluminum unidirectional rotating bezel is in a dark blue to match the dial. Arrow-shaped indices and sword hands with an orange needle second hand are easy to read and complement the dial nicely.
The hands and indices are lumed for visibility in the dark or below the surface. The dial is protected by a mineral shatter-resistant crystal.
This timepiece is powered by Citizen’s Eco-Drive E-168 movement. It draws power from any light source, eliminating the need for batteries and winding. The stainless steel bracelet has a push-button three-fold clasp. Overall, the $380 retail price makes this a great choice for an inexpensive yet well-built watch.
Seiko 5 Sports SSK025
If you’re the adventurous type, looking for a military-style timepiece, but can’t quite afford a G-Shock, Seiko has you covered. For a retail price of just $415, you can pick up a Seiko 5 Sports SSK025.
The 39.5 mm stainless steel case will accommodate most wrist sizes nicely. The case dial and GMT bezel are matte black for a subtle look that you can wear with any casual outfit.
100 meters of water resistance won’t get you into Jacques Cousteau territory, but it’s more than enough to protect your watch in the great outdoors.
Large lumed numerals with lumed sword minute and second hands, paired with a red arrow-tipped second hand and large red arrow GMT hand for easy readability and a great contrast to the dial.
Inside the circle of numerals is a 24-hour dial, which, along with the rotating bezel, allows you to easily track multiple time zones.
The date complication at three o’clock adds more useful information. The dial is covered with a Hardlex crystal that is resistant to scratches.
Seiko’s automatic Caliber 4R34 movement has a solid 41-hour power reserve. A black calfskin strap with a securely-locking three-fold clasp holds this beauty on your wrist while matching the dial and case.
Hamilton H82335131 Khaki Navy Scuba Auto 40mm
If you have a bit more to spend but want that military vibe for under $1,000, check out the Hamilton Khaki Navy Scuba.
The stainless steel 40 mm case with screw-down crown is a good middle-of-the-road size. It has a uni-directional rotating bezel like a dive watch, but with 100 meters of water resistance, you don’t want to take it too deep. It is fine for swimming and dry land escapades.
The black dial features indices, with tapered, wider ones at 3, 6, 9, and 12 o’clock. The tapered minute and hour hands, and the needle second hand with a red arrow at the end, are coated in Super-Luminova, as are the indices and numbers on the bezel, making the dial easy to read in low-light conditions.
Inside the indices is a 24-hour dial, and there is a small but legible date complication at 4:30. The dial is protected by a sapphire crystal.
Hamilton’s Caliber H-10 automatic movement powers the timepiece with a very generous 80-hour power reserve, meaning you won’t often have to stop often to wind your adventure companion.
A stainless steel bracelet with a folding clasp is easy to use and matches up nicely with the case. At $895 retail, it’s a budget-friendly water-resistant watch with a military vibe.
DOXA SUB 200 Sharkhunter 799.10.101.10 on Bracelet
If your budget is a grand, and you can go just a bit higher to $1,090, the Doxa Sub 200 Sharkhunter may be just what you’re looking for.
With a name like “Sharkhunter,” you know it’s great for water adventures. It’s a big timepiece with a 46 mm stainless steel case, perfect for beefy wrists and bold statements.
With the screw down crown and 200 meters of water resistance, you can go beneath the waves for some snorkeling fun.
The black dial is complemented by lumed-coated sword hands, baton indices, and a needle second hand with a lumed square on the end.
The black uni-directional rotating bezel has a sapphire inlay and numbers that are also lumed, and the dial is protected by a retro-style domed sapphire crystal. At 3 o’clock, there is a useful date complication.
The watch is powered by a Swiss automatic movement with a 38-hour power reserve. A beads of rice style stainless steel bracelet looks great with the case. The folding clasp has a wetsuit extension, as any proper diver should.
Zodiac ZO9312 Compression Diver Blue Lapis Lazuli Dial
For those with a bit higher budget, $2,095 will get you a stunning dive watch. The Zodiac ZO9312 with the blue lapis lazuli dial is as stylish as it is functional.
The stainless steel case measures a mid-size 40 mm diameter and provides 200 meters of water resistance to allow for some fun below the surface.
The lapis lazuli dial is a stunning shade of dark blue with an interesting texture. The bezel is a matching blue and has only the 30-minute number, making for a cleaner look.
The baton indices, rectangular hands, and needle second hand with a square on the end are luminous and stand out clearly in the dark. A sapphire crystal keeps the dial safe.
Zodiac’s Caliber STP1-21 automatic movement does a good job of keeping things moving. The stainless steel five-link bracelet coordinates with the case, and the deployant clasp keeps it securely in place.
Montblanc 1858 Iced Sea Automatic Date
Moving up a bit in price, but still in the sub-$5,000 range, we have the 1858 Iced Sea Automatic from Montblanc. The stainless steel case is 41 mm in diameter, a good size to accommodate many wrists.
The uni-directional rotating bezel is stainless steel with a ceramic insert, and both dial and bezel are a great shade of dark blue with an ice-like texture on the dial.
White baton indices, sword hands, and a needle second hand with an arrow tip contrast the dial and add to the icy feel.
White Arabic numerals at 6, 9, and 12 o’clock, with a date complication at 3, made for excellent legibility and style. All are covered in a bright lume, as is the dot at 12 on the bezel.
A domed glass box sapphire crystal sits above the dial, offering protection. The screw-down crown and case have 300 meters of water resistance, making this beauty a true diver.
The movement is automatic, always convenient, and sought after. The stainless steel bracelet pairs well with the case and has microadjustments for a perfect fit.
This is Montblanc’s first sport dive watch and is compliant with the ISO 6425 norm for divers. At $3,460 retail, it offers solid bang for your buck.
Movado Alta Super Sub Sea Automatic
How about a sub-$5,000 water-resistant chronograph? The Movado Alta Sub Sea Automatic may be just what you are looking for.
The 43 mm case is on the large side and bold, and made from Dura 904 stainless steel. Paired with a screw-down crown, it provides 200 meters of water resistance and is great for fun in and around the water.
A bright white dial is contrasted beautifully by a blue bezel and subdials. Silver baton indices, sword hands, and a needle second hand with a diamond-shaped tip are coated with Super-Luminova for easy reading in all lighting conditions.
The subdials measure the chronograph function’s seconds, minutes, and hours, and there is a date complication at 3 o’clock. The sapphire crystal is double anti-reflective, and there is also one on the exhibition caseback.
The Caliber 146M automatic movement has a 62-hour power reserve and is a beautiful piece of engineering you can look at, thanks to the exhibition caseback.
The three-link stainless steel bracelet features brushed and polished links and looks great with the case. The retail price of $3,995 will accommodate many budgets.
Tudor Pelagos FXD M25717N-0001
Tudor is a well-known brand that makes many quality watches that cost less than $5,000. The Pelogos FXD line consists of fine dive watches, and this one has a cool military feel.
The 42 mm case is titanium, and the unidirectional rotating bezel is made from the same material with a ceramic insert. Lightweight and durable with a comfortable size for most wrists.
200 meters of water resistance make it a good companion for all kinds of outdoor adventures, and the sapphire crystal keeps it safe.
A sword minute hand is paired with Tudor’s signature hour and second hands. Everything is coated in luminous material for easy visibility.
Tudor’s Caliber MT5602 automatic, bidirectional rotor system movement, is COSC-certified for reliability and accuracy. The olive NATO strap has a thin red stripe down the middle and has a nice military look. You get a lot for the $4,450 retail price.
The matte black dial has baton indices at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock, with an inverted triangle at 12, and squares at the others.
Oris ProPilot X Kermit Edition
Just above the $5,000 mark, there’s a fun, water-resistant, and well-made timepiece. The Oris ProPilot X Kermit Edition is playful, functional, and stylish.
The 39 mm caseback is a great size for this style of watch and most wrists. It’s made from lightweight and durable titanium and has brushed and sandblasted surfaces that add depth. It has a screw-in crown and a solid 100-meter water resistance.
The light green dial is on the bold side, but the thin baton indices and sword hands are subtle and stand out against the dial.
The date complication at 6 o’clock has a fun twist. On the first of every month, rather than the numeral “1,” it displays Kermit the Frog’s smiling face. The hands are luminous for easy visibility. An anti-reflective sapphire crystal protects the dial.
The Caliber Oris 400 automatic movement has an impressive 5-day power reserve. Thanks to the exhibition caseback, you can view the works whenever you like.
The unique three-link bracelet is also titanium and matches up nicely with the case. AT $5,100, it’s a lot of watch for the money.
G-Shock Casio MRGBF1000B-1A Frogman
We go from frog to frogman. No list of water-resistant watches is complete without a G-Shock. The popular Casio models are virtually indestructible and favored by rugged outdoor types who like to rough it.
The MRGBF1000B-1A Frogman stands out with a big presence in a 50 mm black titanium case. The black dial features a red 12-hour subdial, a black day-of-the-week subdial, and a red circle around the outside of the dial.
Lumed baton indices, with an inverted arrow at the top, paired with a sword minute hand, an arrow hour hand, and a red needle second hand. A date complication sits at 4:30. But, wait. There’s more.
It features a tide graph, Bluetooth connectivity, and the quartz, solar-powered movement supports multi-band atomic timekeeping.
The black titanium bracelet matches the case and closes with a folding clasp. This is a serious timepiece that may make you feel like a Navy SEAL. The $5,800 price tag is lower than you might expect.
Omega Seamaster Professional 300M 42 mm
Now in the $5,000-$10,000 range, here’s a horological icon. The Omega Seamaster Professional 300M is a classic and desired dive watch.
The blue-dialed version was seen on the wrist of James Bond as portrayed by both Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig. I have one and love it. However, let’s take a look at a different color and newer version.
This Seamaster has a stainless steel case just a bit larger at 42 mm. Still a good size. Bold, but suitable for a wide range of wrists.
The screw-in crown helps with its 300 meters of water resistance. Swim, dive, snorkel, you can do it all. It has the iconic Omega helium escape valve. Controversial, but if you’re like me, you love it, even if it’s not useful.
This model has a white dial with the laser-engraved wave pattern and a contrasting black unidirectional rotating bezel.
Omega’s classic skeleton minute and hour hands in black are easy to read, as is the black needle second hand with a red tip.
The indices are batons at 3 and 9 o’clock, a double baton at 12, and a shortened baton at 6 to accommodate the date complication.
White circles outlined in black sit at the other positions. Hands, indices, and the dot on the bezel are coated in Super-Luminova and bright in low light. A sapphire crystal covers and protects the dial.
Omega’s COSC-certified automatic Caliber 8800 co-axial movement has earned the “Master Chronometer” designation and will serve you well.
Thanks to the exhibition caseback, you can view this stunning piece of engineering. Omega’s signature five-link stainless steel bracelet is brushed and polished and pairs up beautifully with the case. It opens and closes easily with its folding claps.
At $6,200, this is quite the bargain for a watch that conveys ruggedness, gentlemanly style, and functions reliably.
Omega 220.10.38.20.03.004 Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M
Two Omegas? Yes, the Aqua Terra is part of the Seamaster collection, but it is different enough to be recommended as a water-resistant watch you should consider.
Built just as well as the 300m, it is a bit more refined and still has the Bond connection, as it was seen on the wrist of Daniel Craig.
The 38 mm stainless steel case is more on the dressy side, but still has 150 meters of water resistance and a screw-down crown. Good for boating, kayaking, or swimming.
The dial is a stunning light blue color with a sunburst texture. The thin, oval-shaped indices are silver around blue Super-Luminova.
The arrow minute hand has Super-Luminova at the tip, and the sword second hand is in the center of the design. The needle second hand is lumed in the arrow at the tip.
It’s an easy-to-read dial in any kind of light, and it is protected by a sapphire crystal. A small circular window at 6 o’clock displays the date in dark blue against a light blue background.
Like its 300M cousin, the Aqua Terra is powered by the Caliber 8800 Master Chronometer, COSC-certified movement.
A classy three-link stainless steel bracelet with brushed and polished links adds additional style. The $7,300 retail price is well below the $10,000 mark.
Grand Seiko Sports SBGA463
Another brand that is making waves and one that I especially admire is Grand Seiko. Beauty, quality, and reliability are trademarks of the brand, and all are on display in the Sports SBGA43 diver.
The simple elegance of this timepiece is matched by its expert craftsmanship. A 44.2 mm titanium case adds a bit of boldness while being lightweight and strong.
Brushed and Zaratsu polished surfaces add depth and interest. With the screw-down crown, it has 200 meters of water resistance, more than enough for fun on or in the water.
The black dial and matching unidirectional rotating bezel provide a nice contrast to the case, as do the silver arrow minute hand and sword hour hand. The indices are batons at 6 and 9 o’clock, an inverted arrow at 12, and a shortened baton behind the date complication at 3.
The other positions are simple dots. The indices, hands, and dot on the bezel are all lumed as they should be on a proper dive watch. An antireflective-coated sapphire crystal provides solid protection.
Grand Seiko’s 9R65 Spring Drive automatic movement provides accuracy of +/- 1 second per day with a 72-hour power reserve. The three-link brushed and polished titanium bracelet matches the case and stays on securely with a folding clasp.
Whether sitting at your desk or snorkeling in the Caribbean, the ABGA463 can get the job done. At $7,300, this is one you need to check out.
Glashütte Original SeaQ Chronograph “Panda” on Bracelet 1-37-23-03-80-70
Now we are in over $15,000 territory, and there are a couple of great water-resistant watches to check out. Glashütte Original’s SeaQ Chronograph is a beautiful timepiece that you can wear above or below the surface.
The stainless steel case is 43.2 mm in diameter – large enough to stand out but not ostentatious. It has a screw-down crown and 300 meters of water resistance, so you can dive with it and enjoy any water activities.
The dial is a classic Panda style with a silver “face” and silver chronograph second and minute subdials outlined in black.
The use of only two subdials gives it a clean and uncluttered look. The silver arrow minute hand and sword second hand are outlined in black as well, as are the numerals 12 and 6 at those positions.
Similarly, decorated batons sit at 1, 5, 7, and 11 o’clock with shortened batons at the other positions. A date complication window at 6 o’clock shows a silver number on a black background.
The unidirectional rotation bezel has a black, scratch-resistant ceramic inlay. Glashütte clearly put a lot of thought into this design and protects it with an anti-reflective sapphire crystal.
The Caliber GO-37-23 automatic movement has a 70-hour power reserve. Thanks to the exhibition caseback, you can take a look at it whenever you like.
The SeaQ is available with a three-link matching stainless steel bracelet or a black or orange textile strap for a more military adventurous look. It’s pricey at $16,700, but if you’ve got the budget, you should try one.
Breitling Navitimer GMT 41 Green Dial
Another brand with a long history is Breitling, and its Navitimer series features some outstanding water-resistant watches.
You may not be aware, but in the film “Thunderball”, Sean Connery wore a Breitling Navitimer on his underwater adventure. If you like a Bond connection, this timepiece has one.
A GMT is a useful function for an adventurer, and if you can dive with it, so much the better. The Navitimer GMT 41 Green Dial has an 18K small-scale traceable red gold case. It’s a little blingy, but still has that pilot vibe you expect from a Breitling.
The 41 mm diameter is a perfect size for a watch of this type, and with a double gasket crown, it has 300 meters of water resistance, more than enough to allow some underwater adventures of your own.
The dial is a stunning emerald green. I like having a green-dialed watch. It’s bolder than the more conservative colors but not as in-your-face as red, orange, or pink.
The dial configuration is complex, and as a heads up, not nearly as easy to read as the other timepieces on our list.
But it does look like an instrument from an aircraft, and some of you may love that. A cambered, glareproof sapphire crystal keeps it safe.
Narrow sword hands in gold with a needle second hand and an arrow GMT hand stand out against the green dial.
Thin gold batons serve as indices with a double baton at 12 o’clock, and a shortened baton at 6 to accommodate the date complication.
The bezel rotates in both directions and serves as a slide rule. Thus, the numbers around the edge. Just outside the batons is a distance gauge with the 24-hour gauge just inside them. As I said, it’s complex, but cool as hell.
The Breitling Caliber 32 automatic movement has a 42-hour power reserve. It’s COSC-certified and very accurate. The black alligator leather strap adds class and elegance.
It has a hefty price tag at $17,000, but Breitlings are well-designed and built watches, and you get water-resistance and the ability to track two time zones.
Conclusion
One of the most useful features in a watch is water resistance. Even if you never take it in the water, it’s nice to have protection from a sudden thunderstorm, and the case will also resist dust. Then there’s the cool factor. I love wearing a dive watch even when sitting at my desk.
The world of horology offers a wide range of water-resistant timepieces in different styles, with different complications, at different price points. If you are in the market for one, take a look at this list and see what strikes your fancy.
The watch industry has rightfully gathered a very esteemed reputation over the years. The long road of continuous refinement and the never-ending search for innovation has attached a unique title to the industry, often placing it at the center of the luxury landscape.
In other words, people view luxurious wristwear as a privilege reserved for those at the very top. While it’s true that the market is full of pieces that are intentionally priced at mind-boggling numbers in order to get that grandeur appeal, sometimes it’s ok to admire the prices that are a little bit further down the ladder.
What I mean is that we’ve tricked ourselves into believing that only the top-of-the-line masterpieces are worth checking out, and anything below that would be mere peasantry.
While it’s true that (in most cases) you pay for what you get in the watch world, just because a piece costs less than you would expect doesn’t mean it’s worth ignoring altogether.
Best Men’s Watches Under $1,000
All it takes is a little digging. There are plenty of absolutely gorgeous pieces out there waiting to be enjoyed, and it just might be the exact watch that truly speaks to you.
Today, we are narrowing down some of the best bang-for-your-buck men’s watches out there that truly encapsulate the ideaology that not everything has to cost a fortune to earn your respect.
Timex Marlin
A watch that literally checks all the boxes while coming at a price everyone can afford, the Timex Marlin is a legend among collectors for a reason. When this watch was reissued in 2017, it sold out almost instantly because people recognized its effectiveness and simplicity.
This was Timex’s first mechanical release since 1982, which makes the price even more of an anomaly. The sunray dial (in the best possible way) hits you in the face, immediately drawing you in with its unusual texture that you can’t help but stare at.
The numerals are extremely elegant and reminiscent of an older, simpler time, and the leather strap that tightly holds all of the features together has more than enough detail itself.
This watch measures a minuscule 34mm in diameter, which may put some of you off, but I can assure you that the design and quality do more than enough to make up for the small size.
The Timex Marlin costs $196.
Orient Mako II
Upgrading the Mako was a guaranteed way to make the Orient diver fans happy. Very similar to the Seiko 5 Sports collection, the Mako essentially does the same thing, with a little bit of a more niche design.
It measures 41.5mm in diameter and fits comfortably on the wrist due to the hollow end links on the bracelet. The common consensus is that the Mako II takes all of the well-received features of the first and adds a more well-rounded performance that prioritizes efficiency and modern refinement.
The new F6922 movement breathes a newfound modern sense of life into the Mako, giving it features like hacking, manual wind, and much tighter accuracy overall, not to mention a 200m water resistance. If you like Orient divers, this is by all means a piece for you and definitely worth checking out.
Omega x Swatch MoonSwatch
Perhaps one of the most culturally significant pieces on the market today, the MoonSwatch has become a household name and arguably the best collab in the history of watchmaking.
We all know how legendary the Omega Speedmaster is, so when you manage to emulate a mirrored design of the first watch to navigate space and combine it with Swatch’s stylish touch, you’re setting yourself up for absolute success.
I’d go as far as to say this is one of, if not the best, entry-level watches for those who are just getting into the world of timekeeping. There is just so much to appreciate even while peering in from the outside.
The Omega x Swatch MoonSwatch costs $280.
Hamilton Field Khaki
One of the most iconic field watches of all time, the Hamilton Field Khaki has crafted a very well-deserved reputation for itself as one of the best budget-friendly watches ever made.
The class case shape and dial have perfectly blended a sportier nature without losing any of the utility features that make it stand out as a high-performing device.
It is also quite slick-looking. The simple leather strap gathers all of the elements and presents them in a way that will generally appeal to everyone.
The dial comes in either striking black or sleek white, with a curve that provides a better fit and a more alluring look, blending classy elements with bolder-looking features.
Needless to say, the Hamilton Field Khaki is a certified classic that will undoubtedly continue to reign at the very top of the affordable timepiece market.
The Hamilton Field Khaki costs $475.
Xeric Regulator Automatic
For those who are unfamiliar, Regulator dials feature separate subdials for the hour hand and minute hand. I’ll admit it’s quite strange when you first look at it, but the more you appreciate the idea, the more you can recognize the brilliance and swagger that these very unique pieces bring to the table.
The Xeric regular, in particular, is an incredibly cool design that tells the hour in 24-hour time. It’s very sleek looking, and the multiple dials allow for a subtle slickness that can go unnoticed if you are not looking for the right aspects.
Depending on what your preferences are, this kind of design can either turn you off completely or draw you in with its unapologetic nature. Either way, you cannot deny that this piece is exquisitely made and carries with it a unique presence that is not commonly felt in most pieces on the market.
The Xeric Regulator Automatic costs $499.
Furlan Marri Mechaquartz
This is one of those designs you would expect to see from a pristine, ultra-rare, outrageously expensive watch that isn’t even available on most markets.
It mimics all of the Patek antiques that sell for millions of dollars, so I wouldn’t blame you for thinking this piece is right up there with the big boys.
It’s true that the watch takes direct information from Patek Phillipe pieces, but Furlan Marri has delivered its own voice to this gorgeous beauty that causes it to stand out even in a market so overcrowded with vintage-like pieces.
The reason the cost is so low is that Furlan Marri utilizes a very interesting technology called Mechaquartz, which combines both high-tech mechanical movements and simple, energy-efficient quartz movements.
It’s quite the creative way to avert your audience’s expectations while keeping it at a price that is appealing to everyone.
The Furlan Marri Mechaquartz costs $585.
Wolfpoint Arctic Beast
The Arctic Beast is a great improvement to the standard designs from Wolfpoint, an underrated watch manufacturing company based out of Chicago.
In the past, they have primarily focused on fun, affordable designs. The Arctic Beast, however, as the name suggests, is a literal beast.
Extremely textured and refined, it captures a very Tissot-like looking aesthetic, playing into the sportier side more than anything. I really love it.
The dial has a gorgeous hexagonal pattern in the background, and the thin hands and indices are just subtle enough as not to take away from everything else.
The bezel is also extraordinarily polished and evens out the design in a smooth manner, while the automatic movement surprisingly does not affect the price half as much as you would expect.
While I could understand some having a negative opinion on this watch, I, for one, really love what Wolfpoint has managed to accomplish here and hope that it gets the recognition it so very much deserves.
The Wolfpoint Arctic Beast costs $600.
Baltic Aquascaphe
The Baltic Aquascaphe will always strike a direct balance between a delicate vintage diver and a more traditional, modern piece.
It arguably combines the best features from both times to deliver an iconic look that is so widely praised for being so clean-cut and classic.
The simplistic nature of the dial has drawn many diver fans far and wide to relish in the very Seiko-like glory that the dial emulates, but it carries a lot of distinct features original to Baltic as well.
For example, the svelte shape is absolutely divine, making it clear that at its core, this is a piece heavily inspired by the 60s.
In addition, this watch measures 39mm in diameter but has an astounding 200m water resistance, so it’s true that this is an authentic diver’s watch made for those who greatly value underwater explorations.
What more can I say? The versatility and style are truly astounding, as the Aquaspache probably has a combination of all your favorite features from other watches piled up on one nice, steamy platter. I highly recommend.
The Baltic Aquascaphe costs $630.
Tissot PRX Powermatic 80
The steel sports watch space has a very diverse cast of characters that offer their own varying level of performance that blend countless different features.
The Tissot Powermatic 80 stands out as one of the most diverse and versatile sports watches simply because of the amount of life it has breathed into Tissot as a brand.
Every model is a masterclass in design, finishing, and quality. There’s a reason it is one of the most highly respected Tissot watches out there.
With a distinct waffle pattern on the dial and a uniquely bulky case, this watch exists in a realm of its own, defining what is possible in the world of cheap sports watches.
The Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 costs $675.
Longines Conquest
The rich history of Longines should be more than enough to prove that it is a brand worth recognizing. Any Longines piece deserves to be stopped and studied, and the Conquest by all means is no exception.
Being a brand as big as this means that most of their pieces are outrageously priced, but the Conquest manages to appeal to budget-conscious fans, while not skimping on any of the details that make it a true Longines masterpiece.
The design is simple enough, a radiant blue dial, with thinner hands and larger indices, and numerals that take up a good amount of space without being too distracting.
The stainless steel shimmers under the light, delivering a smooth appeal that is particularly striking when considering the historical significance.
Being so budget-friendly, it would be a crime if I didn’t include this watch in the lineup, as you almost can’t go anywhere where people are discussing budget-friendly watches without hearing this name pop up.
The Longines Conquest costs $695.
Seiko Alpinist SPB121
I think we’re all thankful that Seiko re-released this beauty. The Seiko Alpinist SPB121 is fitted with a green dial and gold hands, immediately instilling that familiar vintage appeal that so many go crazy for.
This particular model has always been quite a popular enthusiast’s piece, which most likely led to the re-release. And oh boy, are we thankful for it.
The newly remodeled edition is much cleaner and more concise, while still maintaining that originality and vivid spark of creativity that so many Seiko models emulate. The unique mix of style and colors has drawn so many to this piece. What do you think? Can you see the appeal?
The Seiko Alpinist SPB121 costs $725.
Bulova Lunar Pilot
One of the only watches to have ever been to space, the Bulova Lunar Pilot, is unfortunately overshadowed by the Speedmaster, the most famous space watch that accompanied Buzz Aldrin on the first trip to the moon.
The Lunar Pilot from Bulova, however, is just as capable of supporting interstellar missions while channeling those chronograph features to provide a flawless performance even while on Earth.
With a black dial and three little sub-dials, this watch is about as “chronography” as it gets in terms of appearance. And trust me, this is a good thing.
I, for one, love the complex nature of this piece and think it adds to the grand allure, establishing a sense of mechanical excellence that can even be felt by simply wearing it.
The Bulova Lunar Pilot costs $775.
Stowa Marine Classic 36
Stowa is a brand with a lot of history. They began by producing pocket watches with big movements that were designed to bring out the most in technological innovation before graduating to Marine Observation watches in 1939.
One thing that stayed consistent with Stowa as a brand was the ability to customize your piece with different dials or movements, and the Marine Classic 36 of today greatly benefits from that wide range of versatility at your disposal.
Stowa gives you the option of equipping your timepiece with the very same movements that were used in the handwound pocket watches of old, which I find quite a refreshing option and perhaps just what your piece needs to stand out amidst the same old designs and the same old movements.
The Stowa Marine Classic 36 costs $850.
Zodiac Olympos Automatic
Quite the slick-looking sports watch for a brand that (in my opinion) needs much more recognition, the Zodiac Olympos Automatic is a very symmetrically pleasing experience and captures quite a unique tone.
For starters, it has a manta-shaped case, featuring two extending wings pointing to the top of the strap, adding a subtle amount of curvy detail.
Then there’s the sunburst quadrant dial, which plays into the symmetrical allure you will undoubtedly feel when looking at this piece for the first time. Another important feature is the versatility.
The Olympos comes with a wide variety of strap and dial color combinations, ensuring that there’s something for everyone out there.
The Zodiac Olympos Automatic costs $895.
Christopher Ward C63 Sealander.
High-quality steel sports watches that are reasonably priced are quite a rare find, I must admit. Those that are super cheap are undoubtedly poorly made, but those that cost a fortune are obviously out of so many people’s price ranges.
Fortunately, Christopher Ward has struck gold with this piece, landing right in the middle of the high-quality, good price scale.
Swiss-made and versatile, this watch is designed to be worn anywhere, and with an automatic movement that functions flawlessly, this watch truly feels like an anomaly when you throw in the fact that it’s under $1,000.
The Christopher Ward C63 Sealander costs $945.
Conclusion
In the never-ending pursuit to find a watch that matches your fancies, it can be a little overwhelming juggling all of the information you have to take into account. On top of that, finding a watch that won’t break the bank is easier said than done, especially given how the market seems to be moving right now.
But there’s always hope, and I promise you there is something waiting for you around the corner, you just have to be actively looking for it.
With how diverse the market is, you don’t have to be an expert to fully understand what you want, but it is important to stay educated and not to blindly make assumptions that could potentially set you back thousands of dollars.
At the very least, I hope this list provided a bit of insight into the potential that these watches hold, and if you didn’t see anything you liked, maybe you now have a bit of clarity on what exactly matches your taste.
If you’re like me, you notice watches everywhere you go. Walking through the mall, going to the supermarket, or walking around the workplace, my eyes are always keenly aware of the watches people are wearing. And the same can be said for films.
I always check the timepieces, with great excitement, on the wrists of actors and actresses who grace the silver screen. And judging by the marketing strategies of many famous watch companies, there is—and always has been—a great connection between horology and Hollywood.
Brand ambassadors show up daily on my social media feed, or on a billboard, a commercial, and on and on. I have to be honest: I love it. I think that horology needs the exposure that these brand ambassadors, and films, can bring to younger generations.
Okay—let me spare you from rattling on about watch marketing strategy and film. I’ve curated a list of ten iconic film watches, so grab your bucket of popcorn, get a cozy blanket, and…lights, camera, action!
10. Seiko “Arnie” (ref. H558-5009)
I hadn’t originally planned to include the “Arnie” on this list, but recently I was with my uncle Luigi, an avid collector who is responsible for getting me into this hobby in the first place (I am grateful, my wallet is not).
He was wearing the original H558, and we started talking about the watch. I quickly realized that it deserves a spot on this list!
Originally released in 1982, the Seiko H558 was the first of its kind: a hybrid dive watch interweaving both digital and analog technology.
It was and is befitting of Arnold Schwarzenegger who famously portrayed T-800 in the iconic Terminator—like the watch, he was two technologies in one package: man and machine.
Though he didn’t wear the watch in the post-apocalyptic sci-fi, he first wore it a year later in Commando (1985), and then again in Predator (1987) and Raw Deal (1986). This gave the watch a cult-like following, and it’s been popular ever since.
Equipped with features like three time zones, a chronograph, an alarm, and a trusty backlight, this multifaceted “tool” watch was a true purpose-built machine.
The H558 was discontinued in 1990. The secondary market is the only place serious collectors can attain the original today, with prices ranging from around $500 into the thousands, depending on condition.
If you prefer something a bit newer, Seiko’s most recent offering is the SNJ025, a solar-powered reissue released in 2019 with an MSRP of $525.
I was twenty-six years old when the first Dr. Strange film was released. At that time, I was just getting into horology as a serious collector, and I remember being so impressed with how much Benedict Cumberbatch’s character interacted with watches in the film.
As a wealthy and successful surgeon, Dr. Strange had quite a collection, and we get a momentary glance at his watch winder filled with the likes of Rolex and Cartier. But it’s his Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual, gifted to him by his love interest, Christine Palmer, that steals the show.
My God—what a watch, I remember thinking, when I first saw him put it on. I cringed when he got mugged in Kathmandu, leading to the watch’s crystal shattering. He still wore the watch—it remained a sentimental piece to him, and this really resonated with me as a collector.
Though the “exact” reference from the film has been discontinued, the almost identical ref. Q114842J features a 39mm stainless steel case, 9.2mm thick, housing the in-house automatic Calibre 868 with a 70-hour power reserve.
It offers perpetual calendar functions—including day, date, month, year, moonphase, and a red “danger zone” indicator—requiring no manual correction until the year 2100, and maintains high accuracy typical of JLC’s in-house calibers. You too can be like Dr. Strange—you just have to cough up the MSRP of $28,500.
8. Omega Speedmaster Professional (ref. 105.012)
Everyone loves a Moonwatch. Heck, Swatch Group, arguably, released the most important watch of the 21st century with their MoonSwatch.
Nominated for nine academy awards, Apollo 13 is accurate in its depiction of Omega’s icon, with all the astronauts—Jim Lovell (Tom Hanks), Fred Haise (Bill Paxton), and Jack Swigert (Kevin Bacon)—shown wearing the Omega Speedmaster Professional, commonly known as the “Moonwatch.”
While the exact reference worn by Tom Hanks in the film is not definitively confirmed, the 105.012 is the most historically accurate model associated with Jim Lovell and the Apollo 13 mission.
Early vintage models from 1965 through the 70s are sought by collectors, with well-kept models commanding prices upwards to $10,000. Let’s say vintage isn’t your thing—no problem.
Omega has been quite faithful to the original watch, with ref. 310.30.42.50.01.002 (Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional) having almost identical dimensions. With an MSRP of $8400, you can marry horology, astrology, and cinematography all in one sleek package!
7. Hamilton Ventura Edge, Dune Limited Edition (ref. H24624330)
I had to include Lisan al-Gaib’’s (Timothy Chalamet) watch on this list. Designed in close collaboration with Dune: Part Two prop master, Hamilton designed and created the custom “Desert Watch” to fulfill filmmaker Denis Villeneuve’s vision for the film.
Not only am I a huge fan of the Dune films, accentuated by Timothy Chalamet’s exceptional acting, but I love the cinematic partnerships that Hamilton has cultivated with the film industry (with another one of their watches on this list).
With a 51x47mm, the case shape is directly taken from the Ventura line, and I have to admit…it works really well here. Though it is not identical to the “Desert Watch” from the film (which has limited screen time, besides), it is clearly directly inspired by it.
As an authorized dealer of Hamilton watches, Exquisite Timepieces can help you acquire your own “Desert Watch.” With an MSRP of $2500, joining House Atreides has never been easier.
6. Oris Modern Classic 7490 (ref. 633 7490 4061LS)
In 2005, beloved actor Keanu Reeves played DC comics antihero, John Constantine. In the movie, he kicked plenty of demon ass wearing a pretty simple Oris watch with date complication at the 6.
Both the movie and the watch garnered a following, with the Oris “Constantine” reference, if you can find it, commanding upwards to $4000—a farshot from its original MSRP of around $1000.
Though Oris no longer makes the Modern Classic, you would be hard-pressed to find a better bang-for-your-buck than you could from their Artelier or ProPilot collections, which do share a lot of the same design language as the “Constantine” watch.
James Bond is synonymous with cool toys: guns, cars, gadgets, and watches. Earlier iterations of the character wore Rolex watches, but that all changed in 1995 with Pierce Brosnan’s Goldeneye.
Omega became Bond’s darling, and though I was tempted to include that original reference, the SPECTRE is just too damn cool. Released alongside the 2015 film—and limited to 7,007 pieces, the SPECTRE was just the perfect neo-vintage timepiece.
They can’t be purchased new anymore for obvious reasons, and preowned examples go for about $10,000, if you can find them.
But I have good news: The Seamaster 300 Master Chronometer (ref. 234.30.41.21.01.001) is almost identical to the original SPECTRE watch, but it comes on a bracelet and has a traditional diver’s bezel as opposed to the 12-hour bezel on Bond’s. The Seamaster 300 Master Chronometer has an MSRP of $7400.
4. Captain Koon’s Vintage Lancet
Maybe you’ve seen the scene before. Maybe you haven’t. But it is one of the most relevant “wristwatch” scenes in all of cinema.
I can hear Christopher Walken’s words: “Hello, little man. Boy, I sure heard a lot about you. See this watch? This watch I got here was first purchased by your great-granddaddy during the First World War…”
Christopher Walken’s unforgettable monologue, delivered with memorable intensity and deadpan sincerity, elevates the watch to an almost mythical status.
The watch in question is an unassuming vintage Lancet. In the early to mid-20th century, Lancet was a company that manufactured swiss-made mechanical watches at affordable prices.
Luckily, you don’t have to shell out thousands and thousands of dollars for a similar vintage piece from Lancet. Well-kept examples are just a few hundred dollars!
3. Khaki Field Murph Auto
I promised another Hamilton watch, and I’d wager that this is one of the most recognizable and beloved film watches in recent memory. It’s just such a cool watch—thanks Matthew McConaughey.
Besides the emotional connection and significance of the watch between father and daughter, Cooper communicates with Murph through time and space by way of Morse Code through the ticking of the watch’s second hand.
A Morse Code Easter egg is patterned along the second hand of the 42mm version of the Murph. Specifically, the second hand has Morse code dots and dashes printed along it, which spell out the word “Eureka”—a key message from the Interstellar movie, symbolizing the moment of discovery by Murphy Cooper.
For those who prefer something a bit smaller—aligned with current trends, a 38mm version is available. Both versions have an MSRP of just under $1000.
007 earns two watches on my favorite film watch list—though it would be just as easy to write an entire blog about the watches that Bond famously wore through the decades.
Daniel Craig’s last appearance as Bond was in 2021’s No Time To Die. This timepiece was co-designed with Craig himself to reflect Bond’s military background and the actor’s personal taste.
It’s an absolutely stunning watch in person. Oh—it’s also not a limited edition model, so you can walk into an Omega authorized dealer to pick one up today! With an MSRP of $10,600, a stunning titanium case and a really comfortable mesh bracelet, the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M “007” Edition will have you doing your best Bond impression: “The name’s Bond. James Bond.”
1. Heuer Monaco (ref. 1133B)
Worn by the legendary Steve McQueen in the 1971 film Le Mans, the Heuer Monaco was a truly unique square-cased chronograph with a blue dial.
The model was introduced in 1969 and was one of the first automatic chronographs, featuring the Calibre 11. Mcqueen actually chose to wear the Monaco for the film, and this cemented its popularity and iconic status.
Vintage Heuer Monaco 1133B watches without celebrity provenance typically range from approximately $14,000 to $22,000, depending on condition and originality.
The original Heuer 1133B worn by McQueen in the film sold for $1.4 million dollars in 2024. But there’s good news: Tag Heuer released a homage model (ref. CAW211P.FC6356) with a retail price of $8100.
…and cut! [Conclusion]
There are few things as timeless as going to the cinema. There’s just something so special about the smell of popcorn, the dimming of the lights, and the telling of visual stories that capture the hearts and minds of millions.
Timepieces, however, are one of those “things” that are as timeless as going to the cinema—no pun intended.
If you’re anything like me, which by reading this blog you probably are, then I’m sure your eyes will gravitate to the wrist of the actor on screen, where a carefully chosen timepiece quietly plays its part—not just telling time, but adding depth and character to the story unfolding before you.
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