Last Updated on June 12, 2024 by Luis Cooper
Budget watches offer an attractive solution for finding a watch that balances quality, style, and affordability.
Whether you’re a seasoned watch enthusiast or a first-time buyer, plenty of options are available that provide excellent value without breaking the bank.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best budget watches on the market, considering factors such as quality, features, design, and brand reputation.
Whether you’re looking for a versatile everyday timepiece, a rugged outdoor companion, or a stylish dress watch, there’s something for everyone in the world of budget watches.
Join us as we delve into the world of affordable timepieces and discover the perfect watch to suit your style and budget.
Which are the Best Budget Watches?
Here are my recommended top 10 Best Budget Watches:-
| Image | Buy | Best Budget Watches |
|---|---|---|
 | View on Amazon | Tissot Men's PRX 316L Stainless Steel Case Dress Watch Grey T1374101104100 |
 | View on Amazon | Fossil Men's Blue GMT Stainless Steel and Silicone Dual Time Watch, Color: Black/Pacific Blue (Model: FS5992) |
 | View on Amazon | Victorinox Maverick Large Analog Quartz Watch with Blue Dial and Silver Stainless Steel Strap - Timeless Wristwatch |
 | View on Amazon | MVMT Chrono Men's Japanese Quartz Chronograph Watch - Water Resistant 5 ATM/50 Meters |
 | View on Amazon | Timex Men's T5E901 Ironman Classic 30 Gray/Black Resin Strap Watch, Black/Gray/Orange Accent, One Size |
 | View on Amazon | Bulova Men's Marine Star Series C Stainless Steel 6-Hand Chronograph Quartz Watch, Black Dial Style: 96B272 |
 | View on Amazon | Orient Japanese Automatic/Hand-Winding 38mm Dress Watch (Model: RA-AC0M01S10B) |
 | View on Amazon | Citizen Men's Classic Corso Eco-Drive Watch, Chronograph, 12/24 Hour Time, Date, Sapphire Crystal, Black Ion-Plated (Model: AT2145-86E) |
 | View on Amazon | Bulova Men's Classic Aerojet 3-Hand Automatic Leather Strap Watch, Open Aperture, 40-Hour Power Reserve, Double Curved Mineral Crystal, 41mm |
 | View on Amazon | Omega Men's 2599.80.00 Seamaster 300M Chrono Diver Watch |
1. Tissot: (Best Dress Watch for Men)
The Tissot Men’s PRX 316L Stainless Steel Case Dress Watch offers an exceptional blend of style, durability, and affordability, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers.
Featuring a sleek stainless steel case and bracelet, this watch exudes timeless elegance and is suitable for formal occasions and everyday wear.
Despite its budget-friendly price point, the Tissot PRX maintains high-quality craftsmanship and materials, including 316L stainless steel construction and a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.
The quartz movement ensures reliable timekeeping without frequent adjustments, adding to the watch’s overall value.
With its minimalist design and versatile grey dial, this watch offers a sophisticated aesthetic that complements any wardrobe.
Including a date display window adds practicality to the timepiece, enhancing its functionality for daily use.
Overall, the Tissot Men’s PRX Dress Watch delivers exceptional quality and style at an affordable price, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a budget-friendly yet stylish timepiece.
WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?
Durable Construction:
The watch features a durable 316L stainless steel case and bracelet, providing strength and style.
The gray dial adds a touch of understated sophistication, complemented by sleek silver-tone hands and hour markers.
The watch includes a date display window at 3 o’clock, adding practicality to its design.
The scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the dial from scratches and ensures long-lasting clarity and durability.
Functions:
The watch is Powered by reliable quartz movement, which ensures accurate timekeeping for everyday wear.
With a water resistance rating of up to 100 meters (330 feet), this watch offers versatility for everyday wear and occasional water activities.
The deployment clasp provides a secure and comfortable fit on the wrist while also adding a touch of convenience for daily wear.
Conclusion:
So far, I’m thrilled with the smartwatch’s quality and features.
Given the price of the smartwatch, it’s a little expensive but worth every penny.
Its resistance to water makes it convenient for underwater activities.
2. Fossil: (Best Budget Sports Watch with Stainless Steel)
As an avid watch enthusiast, I recently added the Fossil Blue Men’s Dive-Inspired Sports Watch to my collection, and I’ve been thoroughly impressed.
Despite its budget-friendly price, this watch offers exceptional value and functionality.
The stainless steel case provides durability while choosing silicone or leather bands, which add versatility to match different outfits and occasions.
I particularly appreciate the dive-inspired design, which gives the watch a rugged yet stylish aesthetic.
The luminous hands and markers make it easy to read the time, even in low-light conditions, and the water resistance ensures peace of mind during water-related activities.
While it may not have all the advanced features of higher-end models, such as GPS or heart rate monitoring, it more than meets my daily wear and casual outings needs.
The Fossil Blue Men’s Dive-Inspired Sports Watch delivers style and functionality without breaking the bank.
WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?
Design:
The watch features a rugged and sporty design inspired by dive watches, making it suitable for underwater adventures and everyday wear.
Crafted from durable stainless steel, the case provides robust protection for the watch’s internal components while adding a touch of sophistication to its overall aesthetic.
The watch is available with a stainless steel bracelet, silicone strap, or leather band, allowing you to customize the look and feel of your timepiece to suit your style and preferences.
A date display window adds functionality to the watch, allowing you to track the date and time conveniently.
Functions:
With a water resistance rating suitable for swimming and diving, this watch is built to withstand exposure to water and moisture, making it an ideal companion for aquatic activities.
The watch features luminous hands and markers that enhance visibility in low-light conditions, ensuring you can easily read the time, even in dimly lit environments.
Powered by a reliable quartz movement, the watch offers accurate timekeeping with minimal maintenance requirements, allowing you to rely on it for everyday use.
Conclusion:
I am thoroughly impressed with the quality and features of this smartwatch.
While it may be slightly pricey, considering its excellent build and functionality, it’s worth every penny.
Especially for men looking for a reliable and versatile smartwatch.
3. Victorinox: (Best Men’s Analog Display Watch)
As someone who has used the Victorinox Men’s Maverick Analog Display Swiss Quartz Watch, I can attest to its impressive performance and value.
The watch exudes a timeless elegance with its classic analog display and durable stainless steel construction.
The Swiss quartz movement ensures accurate timekeeping, while the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal provides peace of mind against daily wear and tear.
Despite its budget-friendly price, the Maverick maintains high quality and craftsmanship, making it suitable for casual and formal occasions.
With its water resistance and versatile design, this watch has been a reliable companion for everyday wear, offering both style and functionality at an affordable price.
WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?
Unique Design:
This watch features a classic analog display with luminous hands and markers and easy readability in various lighting conditions.
The durable stainless steel case protects against everyday wear and tear while offering a sleek and sophisticated look.
The watch is equipped with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, ensuring durability and clarity for the dial.
The watch includes a convenient date display window, allowing you to keep track of the current date.
Functions:
The Victorinox Men’s Maverick Watch is powered by precise Swiss quartz movement, ensuring accurate timekeeping.
With a water resistance rating of up to 100 meters (330 feet), the Maverick is suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.
Available in various strap options, including stainless steel bracelets or leather bands, providing versatility to match different styles and preferences.
Conclusion:
This luxurious wristwatch is the most budget-friendly option without compromising quality or excellence.
Not only is it simple to use, but it also offers the added benefit of easy repolishing.
Additionally, its adjustable design ensures a comfortable fit on any wrist size.
4. MVMT: (Best Budget Chronograph Watch)
Having used The MVMT Chrono Men’s Japanese Quartz Chronograph Watch, I believe it offers excellent value for its price.
The watch combines sleek design with reliable functionality, making it a great budget-friendly option.
Its Japanese quartz movement ensures accurate timekeeping, while the chronograph feature adds versatility for tracking elapsed time.
The stainless steel construction feels sturdy, and the minimalist design is versatile enough for casual and formal wear.
While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end watches, it more than delivers on style and performance for its affordable price point.
Overall, I’ve been impressed with its quality and reliability, making it a solid choice for anyone searching for a stylish and functional timepiece without breaking the bank.
WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?
Structure:
With its sleek and minimalist design, the watch exudes modern elegance, making it suitable for various occasions, from casual to formal settings.
Built with high-quality materials, including stainless steel case and bracelet, the watch offers durability and longevity.
Equipped with a date window, the watch provides added functionality for keeping track of the date alongside timekeeping.
Features:
The watch is powered by a reliable Japanese quartz movement, ensuring accurate timekeeping.
Featuring a chronograph sub-dial layout, the watch allows for precise time measurement and tracking of elapsed time.
The watch is water-resistant, protecting against splashes and brief immersion in water, making it suitable for everyday wear.
Conclusion:
I recommend using this MVMT watch if you are on a budget.
Its features and style make it worth buying.
Also, it provides accurate time with Japanese quartz movement.
5. Timex: (Best Affordable Digital Watch)
As someone who has used the Timex Ironman Classic 30 Full-Size 38mm Watch, I think it’s a fantastic budget-friendly option.
Despite its affordable price tag, this watch keeps quality and features high.
It’s durable and comfortable and offers essential functions like a stopwatch, countdown timer, and alarm.
The 38mm size is just right for everyday wear, and the water resistance makes it suitable for various activities.
Overall, it’s a reliable and practical timepiece that exceeds expectations for its price.
WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?
Durable Case:
The watch is housed in a tough resin case, which provides excellent protection against impacts and daily wear and tear.
The resin is lightweight yet sturdy, making it ideal for sports and outdoor activities.
It has a resin strap that is both durable and comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Resin straps are resistant to sweat and moisture, making them suitable for active lifestyles.
Moreover, with a water resistance rating of 100 meters, the watch is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water-based activities.
It can withstand splashes, showers, and brief immersion in water.
You can customize the alarm settings according to your preferences, including setting multiple alarms for different purposes or recurring daily alarms.
The watch is specifically designed to meet the needs of athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Its rugged construction, water resistance, and range of features make it an essential companion for sports, workouts, and outdoor adventures.
Digital Display:
The Timex watch features a digital display showing the time, date, and functions.
The Indiglo backlight illuminates the display with a soft blue-green glow, making it easy to read in low-light conditions or at night.
The 30-lap memory feature allows you to record and review up to 30 laps of your workout or activity.
It helps track progress and compare performance over multiple sessions.
What’s more? The countdown timer lets you set a specific time interval for activities such as interval training, cooking, or reminders.
It helps you stay on track and manage your time effectively.
This watch also includes an alarm with multiple customizable settings, allowing you to set reminders for appointments, workouts, or other important events.
The built-in stopwatch will enable you to measure elapsed time precisely, making it handy for timing workouts, races, or other activities.
Conclusion:
The durability of the construction and advanced functions are the specialty of this product.
6. Bulova: (Best Water Resistant Quartz Watch)
As someone who appreciates quality and value, the Bulova Men’s Marine Star ‘Series C’ Chronograph Quartz Watch has exceeded my expectations.
Its stylish design and functionality make it a standout choice for everyday wear and outdoor adventures.
The chronograph function allows me to accurately track elapsed time, while the luminous markers ensure readability, even in low-light conditions.
The rotating bezel adds a touch of versatility, whether I’m timing a dive or simply monitoring my activities.
With a water resistance rating of 200 meters, I can confidently wear this watch for swimming and snorkeling without worrying about water damage.
Its durable construction and reliable quartz movement provide peace of mind, knowing that it can withstand the rigors of daily use.
Overall, the Bulova Marine Star offers exceptional value for its price point, making it a budget-friendly yet high-quality option for anyone in search of a reliable timepiece.
WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?
Advanced Features:
The watch features a chronograph complication, allowing users to measure elapsed time with precision accurately.
Equipped with luminous markers and hands, the watch ensures visibility even in low-light conditions, enhancing readability.
With a water resistance rating of 200 meters, the watch is suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and other water-related activities, providing peace of mind in aquatic environments.
Design:
The rotating bezel adds functionality and style to the watch, allowing for easy tracking of elapsed time or other measurements.
Built with quality materials, the watch boasts durability and longevity, making it suitable for everyday wear and outdoor adventures.
Powered by a reliable quartz movement, the watch offers accurate timekeeping and requires minimal maintenance.
Conclusion:
Its robust construction ensures longevity and reliability for daily wear, making it the perfect choice for teenage boys seeking a stylish yet resilient watch.
7. Orient: (Best Budget-friendly Automatic Watch)
As a proud owner of the Orient Bambino Version 7, I can confidently say that it exceeds expectations for a budget-friendly timepiece.
The Japanese automatic movement ensures accurate timekeeping without needing a battery, and the hand-winding functionality adds a touch of traditional charm.
The classic design, with its minimalist dial and genuine leather strap, exudes timeless elegance, making it suitable for any occasion.
Plus, the sapphire crystal and stainless steel case provide durability and peace of mind.
The Bambino Version 7 offers exceptional value for money and has quickly become a staple in my watch collection.
WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?
Functions:
The watch features a reliable Japanese automatic movement, ensuring accurate timekeeping without a battery.
It also offers hand-winding functionality, allowing users to wind the watch for precise time settings manually.
Design:
The Bambino Version 7 boasts a timeless and elegant design, with a 38mm case size that fits comfortably on the wrist.
Its minimalist dial features simple hour markers and dauphine hands, exuding understated sophistication.
The watch has a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, providing durability and clarity for everyday wear.
Its stainless steel case offers durability and a polished finish, adding to the watch’s overall aesthetic appeal.
Completing the look is a genuine leather strap, providing both style and comfort for extended wear.
Conclusion:
Its functions are notably more efficient than other brands, making it a user-friendly option for daily wear.
Overall, it’s a fantastic product that delivers both performance and convenience.
8. Citizen: (Best Classic Eco-Drive Watch)
As someone who has worn the Citizen Men’s Classic Corso Eco-Drive Watch, I can attest to its impressive performance and value.
This timepiece seamlessly blends classic design with modern technology, making it a standout choice for everyday wear.
The Eco-Drive technology is a game-changer, as it harnesses any light source to power the watch, eliminating the hassle of battery changes.
This eco-friendly feature not only saves money but also reduces environmental impact.
I appreciate the versatility of this watch, thanks to its chronograph functionality and 12/24-hour time display options.
Whether I’m timing workouts or keeping track of the time, it efficiently handles every task.
Durability is another standout feature, with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and a robust stainless steel construction ensuring longevity.
Plus, the classic design adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit, whether I’m dressing up for a special occasion or keeping it casual.
Overall, the Citizen Men’s Classic Corso Eco-Drive Watch offers exceptional value for money.
Its reliable performance, eco-friendly technology, and timeless design make it a budget-friendly watch that exceeds expectations.
WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?
Advanced Technologies:
Powered by light, this watch eliminates the need for battery changes, offering convenience and sustainability.
It allows for precise timing of events with stopwatch functionality, making it ideal for sports and other activities.
Design:
The 12/24 hour time display Offers versatility in timekeeping, allowing users to choose between standard 12-hour or military-style 24-hour time and Provides the convenience of always knowing the current date at a glance.
The scratch-resistant sapphire crystal ensures durability and maintains the watch’s clarity and aesthetics.
The sturdy stainless steel case and bracelet provide longevity and a premium feel.
Conclusion:
So far, I’m thrilled with the smartwatch’s quality and features.
Its resistance to water makes it convenient for underwater activities.
9. Bulova: (Best Overall Watch Under $250)
As someone who appreciates style and functionality in a timepiece, the Bulova Men’s Classic Aerojet 3-Hand Automatic Leather Strap Watch exceeded my expectations.
Its classic design exudes sophistication and elegance, featuring an open aperture dial and a genuine leather strap.
One of the standout features of this watch is its automatic movement, which eliminates the need for batteries and provides a fascinating view of the intricate inner workings through the open aperture on the dial.
I was mesmerized by the smooth and precise motion of the hands as they glided across the dial.
I’ve received compliments on the watch’s timeless design and understated elegance, making it suitable for formal occasions and everyday wear.
The comfortable leather strap adds to the overall comfort of wearing the watch throughout the day.
Overall, the Bulova Men’s Classic Aerojet 3-Hand Automatic Leather Strap Watch offers exceptional value for money, combining classic style, reliable performance, and thoughtful design details.
It’s a versatile timepiece.
WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?
Functionality:
This watch features reliable automatic movement, eliminating the need for batteries and ensuring accurate timekeeping.
The genuine leather strap adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the watch while providing comfortable wear throughout the day.
Structure:
The watch’s dial features an open aperture design, allowing you to admire the intricate workings of the movement.
With a generous 40-hour power reserve, this watch can keep ticking for an extended period without needing to be wound.
The double-curved mineral crystal provides excellent clarity and durability, protecting the dial from scratches and impacts.
The 41mm case size balances classic proportions and modern wearability, making it suitable for a wide range of wrist sizes.
Conclusion:
I’m enamored with these watches’ outstanding features, including a unique display and luminous markers that enhance readability even in low-light conditions.
The meticulously crafted software adds to their appeal, while their lightweight yet high-quality construction ensures a comfortable wearing experience.
10. Omega: (Best Professional Diver Watch)
The Omega Men’s 2599.80.00 Seamaster is a remarkable timepiece with elegance and functionality.
Its classic design, featuring a stainless steel case and bracelet and a vibrant blue dial, makes it a versatile accessory suitable for various occasions.
The watch’s Swiss automatic movement ensures reliable and precise timekeeping, while its impressive water resistance of up to 300 meters makes it ideal for diving and water sports.
One of the standout features of this watch is its iconic Seamaster design, which has become synonymous with Omega’s legacy of watchmaking excellence.
The luminous markers and hands provide excellent visibility in low-light conditions, enhancing its practicality and usability.
While it may not be the most budget-friendly option compared to entry-level watches, the Omega Seamaster offers exceptional value for its quality, craftsmanship, and prestige.
Overall, it’s a timeless investment that combines style, performance, and durability, making it a worthy addition to any watch collection.
WHAT DO WE GET FROM THESE?
Design:
The Omega Seamaster 300M Chrono Diver Watch features a classic, timeless design that combines elegance and functionality.
Its stainless steel case, bracelet, blue dial, and unidirectional rotating bezel exude a sophisticated yet sporty aesthetic.
The scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the dial from scratches and damage, ensuring long-lasting durability and clarity.
Functions:
The watch is powered by Omega’s reliable and accurate Swiss automatic movement and offers precise timekeeping and exceptional performance.
The chronograph function adds versatility, allowing you to measure elapsed time during dives or other activities.
Designed for diving enthusiasts, the Seamaster 300M Chrono Diver Watch boasts an impressive water resistance of up to 300 meters (1000 feet), making it suitable for professional diving expeditions.
Equipped with luminescent markers and hands, the watch ensures excellent visibility in low-light conditions or underwater, enhancing safety and readability.
Conclusion:
This product is truly remarkable, boasting underwater features that enhance its appeal.
As my first luxury watch, I am delighted with its convenience and readability.
Thus far, I have encountered no issues with its performance.
Buying Guide:
Quality and Durability:
- Look for watches made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel, mineral crystal, or sapphire crystal. These materials offer durability and scratch resistance, ensuring your watch lasts longer.
Movement:
- Consider the type of movement in the watch. Quartz movements are affordable, accurate, and low maintenance, making them ideal for budget watches. Automatic movements are more expensive but offer the charm of mechanical craftsmanship.
Features:
- Decide on the features you need in a watch. Basic features like water resistance, date display, and luminous hands are practical for everyday use. Some budget watches may include features like clocks, compasses, or dual time zones.
Style and Design:
- Choose a watch style that suits your personal preferences and lifestyle. Whether you prefer a classic dress watch, a sporty diver’s watch, or a versatile everyday timepiece, budget-friendly options are available in various styles and designs.
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Luis Cooper
Hi, I'm Luis, the guy behind this site. I love wearing watches, especially ones that look great on small wrists (mine are about 6.3" around). The Watches Geek is dedicated to helping you learn about and buy watches that you will love wearing. I want this website to be the last destination for people to pick the best watches to fit their needs. You can find our unbiased reviews here on Thewatchesgeek.