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Searching For The Best Watches Under $1,000
Did you know that time is locked behind a paywall? That’s right, if you want to tell the time at a moment’s notice then you can expect to pay over $1,000 for that basic human right. That is, unless you don’t already have a smartphone that gives you the time.
I’m being overdramatic, but there’s a strange idea that watches are only worthwhile if they cost as much as your mortgage. I’m here to tell you that’s simply not true, especially if you put a little effort into searching for a high-quality, affordable, and attractive watch.
But how are you supposed to find one besides going on Facebook marketplace and hoping someone sells a Rolex for $50? Well, you can start by reading my list of the best watches under $1,000 where I’ll cover some of the best-looking, useful, and budget-friendly accessories on the market today. I’ve collected watches of various designs and materials to satisfy every money-savvy man’s tastes.
10 Best Watches Under $1,000
1. Citizen Promaster Diver Watch
Let’s begin by talking about the Citizen Promaster Diver Watch, which is clearly made for adventure and reliability. This impressive men’s watch features a 46mm gray titanium case that exudes a masculine yet prestigious appeal. The black dial with red accents gives the design a bit of life, while the synthetic sapphire protective window ensures durability and scratch resistance.
The Citizen Promaster Diver Watch offers a date display at 3 o’clock. Powered by automatic movement, this watch doesn’t need a battery to keep you on time. The gray titanium bracelet, equipped with a fold-over clasp with a safety lock, is not only a snug fit but also adds a stylish touch to the overall aesthetic.
Water resistance is a vital feature for any diver’s watch, and the Citizen Promaster Diver Watch doesn’t disappoint. With a water resistance rating of up to 200m/656ft, this timepiece is built to accompany you on underwater adventures, making it suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and even recreational scuba diving.
Even if you’re not diving and the only movement you regularly engage with is walking to the bar, the Citizen Promaster Diver Watch is more than worth its $972 price tag. Its bulky appearance and eye-catching appeal are what some men consider to be the ideal watch, so you may as well make a few fellas jealous.
2. Bulova Curv Chronograph Watch
The Bulova Curv Chronograph Watch is an impressive timepiece that combines sleek design with reliable functionality. With a price tag of $897, this watch is an online exclusive item, making it a unique and sought-after accessory for watch enthusiasts.
The stainless-steel case of the Bulova Curv Chronograph Watch lends a touch of elegance to your wrist. Its black dial beautifully contrasts with the yellow-gold watch hands, ensuring easy readability. The watch face is protected by a durable sapphire crystal window, which not only adds a layer of toughness but also enhances the watch’s overall aesthetic appeal.
Completing the package is the stainless steel bracelet, providing both durability and a polished look. This watch seamlessly blends style and functionality, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
3. Original Grain Indian Motorcycle Speedway Barrel 46mm
The Original Grain Indian Motorcycle Speedway Barrel 46mm is easily one of the coolest watches available for under $1,000 since it’s made from parts of a recycled Indian Motorcycle. This handcrafted watch thus has a biker-friendly appearance that’s not just for show.
Oh, and this is one of the best watches under $1,000 for nature lovers since Original Grain plants a tree for every watch sold. So if you don’t feel like going and planting one yourself, you can at least buy the Indian Motorcycle Speedway Barrel 46mm and let them do the dirty planting work.
You can pick up this timepiece for $595.
4. RZE RESOLUTE SC
There are no clocks under the sea, so if you’re diving you need to bring a reliable way to keep time. The RZE Resolute SC is one of the best watches under $1,000 specifically for diving because that’s what it was made for, though its large watch face and titanium design is handsome enough for any gentleman’s wrist.
This watch boasts an impressive hardness of up to ~1200Hv that can protect it from the bumps and scratches that come with wearing a watch. Equipped with a Miyota 90S5 Automatic Movement, this timepiece offers reliable and precise timekeeping.
With a water resistance rating of 200m (660ft) or 20ATM, the RZE Resolute SC is built to withstand the rigors of underwater exploration. Its dual screw-down crown, adorned with a custom reverse engraved logo, ensures a watertight seal. The sand-textured dials with applied indexes add a touch of rugged elegance, while the 12-hour inner rotating bezel allows for easy tracking of elapsed time.
5. Longines Conquest
Coming in at $895, the Longines Conquest is available in six color variations. This timepiece combines precision, style, and durability. Powered by a quartz movement, it ensures accurate timekeeping, making it a reliable companion for your daily activities. The Longines Conquest features a sleek silver dial and silver polished hands, exuding an understated elegance that complements any outfit.
The watch’s stainless steel construction not only adds some class but also enhances its durability. Paired with a comfortable leather strap, the Longines Conquest is designed for both comfort and style. With a water resistance rating of up to 30 bar, or approximately 300 meters, it can handle water activities and withstand the demands of everyday life.
6. TW Steel Men’s Ace Diver 2019 Chronograph Rubber Black Dial Watch
The TW Steel Ace Diver 2019 features a stainless steel 44 mm case, providing durability and a sleek aesthetic. Its black dial adds a touch of sophistication, while the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal ensures clarity and protects the watch face from daily wear and tear.
Equipped with chronograph functionality, this watch boasts sub-dials displaying 60 seconds, 30 minutes, and 12 hours. This feature allows you to use it to track time on various levels, whether you’re checking how late you’re running for work or if you’re timing a workout. The rubber band, fitted with a buckle clasp, offers a comfortable and secure fit, making it suitable for active lifestyles.
Available on World of Watches for $663, this watch is a testament to TW Steel’s commitment to delivering quality and performance.
7. Vaer A5 Field White
One of the easiest ways to diversify your outfits is with your accessories, and there’s no better accessory than the best watchers under $1,000. Specifically, I’m talking about the Vaer A5 Field White and its multiple straps.
For $549, you can pick up the watch with its basic black silicone strap and a nylon khaki strap. These give off completely different vibes and you can further diversify it by purchasing a premium steel bracelet or a lined leather strap for an extra $100. The watch face looks great with them all, but each serves a different purpose.
As such, you can wear the same watch at multiple events without ever repeating your style.
8. Vincero The Kairos Mesh
The climate-neutral Vincero The Kairos Mesh is easily the most affordable out of all the best watches under $1,000. It costs as little as $178 and you can add engraving for an extra $4. Is it the flashiest watch in the world? Of course not, but it’s not trying to be.
Instead, the Vincero The Kairos Mesh wants nothing more than to be your most versatile watch. It uses Seiko movement, features a stainless steel case, and boasts a Milanese mesh band. Basically, it provides the bare essentials but does so with an understated style.
9. Sturhling Modena Dual Time Automatic 46mm Skeleton
It’s not often that you get to see how a clock operates, but the Sturhling Modena Dual Time Automatic 46mm Skeleton bares everything for you to witness. You can see its inner workings as it ticks away, though I wouldn’t blame you for being distracted by its beautiful face. Regardless of which color you pick, you’re going to be turning heads.
This bold watch also has an impressive strap. It’s a leather strap with an alligator embossing and an onion crown. If all that sounds fancy, then good, because that’s exactly what this watch is.
The Sturhling Modena Dual Time Automatic 46mm Skeleton is available for $300.
10. MVMT Signature Square
Finally, let’s talk about the MVMT Signature Square. Available in nine colors that can cost as little as $128, it has an old-school shape and style without sacrificing modern functionality. Its case is made from iron-plated stainless steel and features quartz movement.
Designed in MVMT’s California headquarters, this watch brings back 60s vibes without antiquated technology. It’s a reserve watch that works best when paired with bracelets and other accessories. You can further customize it by purchasing other straps to change its aesthetics.
Plus, you can wear it in the rain or while running because it’s water-resistant up to 50 meters. Given how small and compact the MVMT Signature Square is, you’ll probably keep it on you at all times.
How To Shop For The Best Watches
If you’re looking to purchase a watch with a budget of less than $1,000 USD, here are some useful tips to keep in mind:
- Determine Your Preferences: Consider the features and qualities you value most in a watch. Decide if you have any specific style preferences, such as a classic, sporty, or minimalist design. Understanding your priorities will help you narrow down your options.
- Do Your Research: Take the time to research different watch styles, movements, and materials that fall within your budget. Look for reliable sources, customer reviews, and online forums to gather information and learn about the quality and performance of the watches you’re interested in.
- Consider Pre-Owned or Vintage Watches: Exploring pre-owned or vintage watches can offer unique designs and potentially better value for your budget. Ensure you buy from reputable sources, and verify the authenticity and condition of the watch before making a purchase.
- Try Quartz or Mechanical: Quartz watches are generally more affordable and accurate, while mechanical watches offer a traditional and intricate movement. Determine which type suits your needs and preferences, as both can be found within your price range.
- Visit Authorized Retailers or Online Platforms: Visit authorized watch retailers or browse reputable online platforms to explore a wide range of options. These platforms often provide competitive pricing and ensure authenticity and customer support.
- Try Them On: If possible, try on different watches to see how they fit and feel on your wrist. This will help you determine the right size and style that suits you best.
FAQ
Which watches increase in value the most?
Sadly, most watches that increase in value over time are not the best watches under $1,000. Most of them come from legacy or luxury brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet. Now, that’s not to say that they’re too expensive to be worthwhile, but that you may not find much value in them if your main objective is to save money.
Are old watches better?
Old watches hold a special place in many buyers’ hearts due to their historical significance, craftsmanship, and rarity, among other factors. If these aspects matter to you then you’d likely agree that old watches are better than new ones.
However, it’s essential to remember that not all old watches are inherently better than new ones. Modern watchmaking techniques, advancements in materials, and improved technology have resulted in the creation of highly reliable and accurate timepieces. New watches often incorporate contemporary design elements and innovative features that may suit individual preferences and lifestyle requirements.
Why are analog watches more popular?
You may have noticed that most men and women wear analog watches. It seems that only schoolchildren and teenagers wear digital watches. This is due to the legacy attached to analog watches as they’re seen as more refined and historic. Plus, there’s something satisfying about watching a hand slowly move across a watch face.
However, that’s not to say that digital watches are worthless. They’re easier to read and have more features that are useful for real situations. For instance, they’re better for timing workouts or setting an alarm. So, it’s not so much that one style is better than the other but that one is usually more desirable than the other in certain circumstances.
Is it OK to buy a cheap watch?
Yes, it is perfectly okay to buy a cheap watch. The affordability of a watch does not necessarily indicate its quality or suitability for your needs. There are many budget-friendly watches available that can still offer accurate timekeeping, durability, and stylish designs.
Cheap watches can serve practical purposes, such as daily wear or activities where you don’t want to risk damaging an expensive watch. They can be reliable options for casual or sporty occasions. Plus, they come in a wide range of designs, allowing you to experiment with different styles and trends without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
When searching for the best watch under $1,000, there are many advantages to buying a less expensive timepiece. While luxury brand names may hold allure, most people appreciate a watch for its style, performance, and the value it brings to their lives rather than its brand prestige alone.
By opting for a watch within this budget range, you open yourself up to a world of options that provide both quality and affordability. The market offers a diverse range of watches from reputable brands, including lesser-known or independent ones, that deliver exceptional craftsmanship, reliable functionality, and appealing designs.
Remember, the true worth of a watch lies in how it resonates with you personally. Focus on finding a watch that suits your style, aligns with your preferences, and brings joy when you wear it. Whether it’s a classic dress watch, a versatile sports watch, or a fashionable everyday timepiece, the options within the under $1,000 range are plentiful and worth your consideration.
So, explore the vast selection available, read reviews, and compare features to make an informed decision. Embrace the advantages of a less expensive watch, allowing you to enjoy its style, performance, and the satisfaction of finding a timepiece that perfectly suits your budget and personal taste.
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