So you decided to embark upon a mission to find the perfect everyday, reliable timepiece that not only looks good, but is made to last. Cherry on top, if only you could find the watch of your dreams at an affordable price point. Fret not, compiling lists of the best finds on the market is kind of our specialty. Take a look at our carefully selected winners, and pick a favorite based on your personal style–you will find a good mix of dressier as well as more casual options.
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Dan Henry 1970 Automatic Diver Compressor
Specs:
- Movement: Automatic
- Caliber: NH35
- Power Reserve: 41 hours
- Case Width: 40 mm
- Water Resistance: 200 m
The Dan Henry 1970 is a limited edition timepiece–there are only 1970 pieces out there. It provides great legibility with large handset and indexes. There are different color combinations available, and all of them have great color contrast on the dial, making them highly visible at depths where light may be limited. The 1970 has a two crown design, the 2 o’clock crown operates the inner rotating bezel while the 4 o’clock crown adjusts the date and time. A unique choice, this is not a watch you will see on every corner.
Stuhrling 3989 Quartz 42 mm
Specs:
- Movement: Quartz
- Case Width: 42 mm
- Lug Distance: 20 mm
- Water Resistance: 50 m
This is a transition timepiece between the business casual and active labels but since this Stuhrling watch has the basic elements of a diver’s watch, it can definitely be worn as a sporty accessory. The deep blue unidirectional rotating bezel paired with the beautiful blue dial make the white Arabic numerals pop, and ensure good visibility. It has a solid 42 mm case, and is water resistant up to 50 meters. An overall great choice.
Citizen Corso
Specs:
- Movement: co-Drive
- Caliber: J165
- Case Width: 40 mm
- Lug Distance: 20 mm
The Corso by Citizen is made for the ultimate business man. Sleek, elegant, straight to the point. It has a classic, timeless style due to the black dial and stainless steel case, paired with a sophisticated black leather strap. The Corso is powered by Citizen’s Eco-drive technology (so basically powered by light, any light), ensuring you never have to worry about changing the battery.
Seiko Essential SUR309
Specs:
- Movement: Quartz
- Caliber: 6N52
- Case Width: 40.2 mm
- Water Resistance: 100 m
Seiko’s SUR309 from their Essential collection is another straight to the point watch. It has a beautiful blue dial with sunray finish, the date calendar is positioned at 3 o’clock and the 40.2 mm case width makes it a comfortable wear for all wrist sizes. The stainless steel bracelet gives this watch a classic, elegant feel, and the water resistance ensures you can use it for sport activities as well. A great choice that will stand the test of time.
Jowissa LeWy 3
Specs:
- Movement: Quartz
- Case Width: 42 mm
- Lug Distance: 22 mm
- Water Resistance: 50 m
Jowissa’s LeWy 3 is quite simply a stunning play of hues and finishes. The brown leather strap and sable-brown dial pair beautifully with the rose gold elements. This watch is hand-assembled in Switzerland, uses a quartz movement and is offered at a great price point.
Read more about Jowissa watches.
Bulova Sutton
Specs:
- Movement: Quartz
- Caliber: Miyota 9U13
- Case Width: 40 mm
- Lug Distance: 20 mm
The Bulova Sutton is a very clean, elegant looking timepiece. The deep blue dial and brushed stainless steel case and bracelet gives it an eye-catching, yet understated appearance. The great Japanese quartz movement will keep you punctual, and we love the placement of the calendar window at 6 o’clock, making the dial very well-balanced. Overall a choice that is sure to stand the test of time, both in style and quality.
Timex Navi XL 41mm Fabric Strap
Specs:
- Movement: Quartz
- Case Width: 41 mm
- Lug Distance: 20 mm
- Water Resistance: 100 m
The Timex Navi XL 41 mm Fabric Strap is a great watch with a surprises. First of all, it’s at a very affordable price point. The classic dive watch design with the brushed stainless steel case is a very solid starting point when searching for a new dive watch. It comes with a fabric NATO strap, so it’s comfortable AND durable. Water resistance is up to 100 meters, so feel free to go for that swim (or just drink something by the pool). Here comes our favorite part: it’s a 24-hour watch!