The best cheap automatic watches that don’t look cheap
Tufina Pionier Boston GM-518-2 Silver
Let’s be honest, automatic watches will always be in fashion. If you haven’t gotten your first automatic watch yet, you don’t know what you’re missing. But if you’ve been dwelling in the automatic timepiece market for quite a while now, you may have noticed that prices don’t always match with quality. More often than not, you will find that affordable automatic watches offer better value for the money than some more expensive options. In this article, we are going to present you with our list of the best cheap automatic watches that don’t actually look cheap.
For the sake of this analysis, we will organize our watches into three main categories: sports, dress watches and diver watches.
Sports watches
When one thinks of sports watches, we think of timepieces that are suitable for a variety of outdoor activities. Think hiking, rock climbing, running, playing different sports, and more. For such activities, you need a timepiece that is both accurate and durable.
Seiko 5 Sports Field Watch
If you’re after something a bit more stylish that resembles vintage field watches, this Seiko model is the ideal piece for you. A classic sports watch with a calendar function. This automatic piece is robust, durable, and quite versatile in terms of styling freedom. The earthy green hues give it a rugged feel that complements any sports outfit as well as casual wear.
Price: $295
Orient Mako XL
This automatic dive-inspired sports watch is perfect for outdoor activities. Featuring a 120-click unidirectional bezel, a durable stainless steel case, and an automatic movement, the Orient Mako XL offers excellent legibility and a sporty aesthetic that can withstand rigorous use. The bold markers and luminous hands make it easy to read in any environment.
Price: $230
Citizen Automatic Diver (NY0040-09EE)
Citizen’s automatic diver combines style and practicality with its robust construction. Equipped with a 200-meter water resistance, a rotating bezel, and an automatic movement, it’s perfect for those who enjoy both diving and other sports. The sleek design and highly readable dial make it a versatile addition to any sports enthusiast’s wardrobe.
Price: $250
Blancpain x Swatch Scuba Fifty Fathoms
Looking for something that gives off a luxurious feel? The Blancpain x Swatch Scuba Fifty Fathoms is a remarkable model that presents a cold-toned palette. The clean dial ensures amazing legibility thanks to the bold dynamite lume hands and markers. Equipped with a chunky bezel and a sturdy strap, this iconic piece is definitely a must-have for any sports watch lover.
Price: $400
Dress watches
Paragon Calendar Theorema
If you’re looking for a classic dress watch that just never goes out of style, Paragon Calendar Theorema is the ideal choice for you. A white dial paired with small golden markers, delicate Arabic numerals and dauphine hands. Every element of this design is chosen with the goal of preserving elegance. Mission accomplished. With a golden case and a chic brown strap, Paragon is the perfect dress watch for any fancy occasion. The beauty of this design lies in its utility as well. With its full calendar feature, Paragon Paragon Calendar promises functionality apart from attractiveness.
Price: $690
Sternglas Naos Automatik
If you’re looking for something a bit more minimalist, the Naos Automatik should be your cup of tea. A simplistic white dial paired with thin stick numerals and a light brown strap. The silver case is thin and mirror-polished, preserving a sleek aesthetic. The thin hands ensure legibility while maintaining the same aesthetic line. Sometimes less is more, and in the case of Naos Automatik this is more than true.
Price: $439
Orient Sun and Moon
If you prefer watches with a sun and moon complication, this model from Orient is an excellent choice. The clean patterned dial is paired with large Roman numerals that complement the simple aesthetic. A sleek silver case is paired with a black leather strap. The sub-dials are expertly set in a diagonal line creating an intriguing asymmetrical design. A great option for those who like their dress watches to have something more special.
Price: $321
Boston Pionier
You like the sun and moon phase idea but the model above seems a bit plain? Check out Boston from the Pionier collection by Tufina. A German watch equipped with a reliable in-house hand-assembled movement. The multi-tone blue dial is the focal point of the design. The open heart window at 6 o’clock mirrors the sun and moon sub-dial at 12 o’clock. A lovely play with the patterned face combined with bold Roman numerals and baton markers. The mirror-polished case and genuine leather strap preserve that iconic dress watch appearance, offering the wearing a more authentic option than what everyone else wears.
Price: $299
Dive watches
Dive watches had to make this list. For anyone who loves the practicality of wearing a watch while swimming, diving, or running in the rain, a diver watch is a necessity. Some of the best diver watches actually house automatic movements, and you can get a pretty good deal considering the affordable price options.
Seiko SRPB53 “Samurai”
For those who prefer the classic look of a red and blue bezel, Seiko SRPB53 “Samurai” is a perfect choice. Well-known for its angled case profile and stark dial markers, the Samurai offers a distinct stylish option for those who want to combine functionality with fashion. The patterned blue bezel is paired with bold white baton markers that ensure legibility. Equipped with a calendar function, this timepiece has all the basics you need to look for in a diver watch.
Price: $495
Nodus Retrospect II
If you’re looking for something a bit more stylish and different, the Nodus Retrospect II delivers on both fronts. Great build quality, easy-to-use crown, and optimal legibility. Apart from its utility features, Nodus Retrospect II offers a stylish twist dial with its brushed pale salmon pink finish. The triangle markers improve legibility while adding a stylish touch to the face. A muted yet distinct color combination of black, silver, pale yellow, and salmon.
Price: $450
Dan Henry 1970
Another fan favorite, this Dan Henry model is an excellent diver watch option for those who appreciate classic designs with a pop of color. Dan Henry 1970 offers a sleek and modern black dial paired with bright baton indices, thin Arabic numerals, and an interesting bezel. The streak of orange demands attention, creating a striking contrast with the dark dial. Equipped with a silver case, two crowns, and a comfortable black strap.
Price: $290