A stylish watch doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. However, finding reliable and good quality brands that sell affordable watches can be quite a challenge; so, we have decided to help you out. In this short guide, we have picked what we think are 2024’s best affordable watch brands alongside our favourite models that they sell. When it comes to watch brands, affordable does not mean low quality. In fact, most inexpensive watches include the craftsmanship, intricate designs and accurate timekeeping seen in those with a more costly price tag. For this reason, and several more, affordable watches are grabbing the attention of many. If you want to buy a new watch but are worried about spending too much, keep reading to discover the brands that won’t break your bank.
2024’s Best Affordable Watch Brands
Timex
Established in 1854 as the ‘Waterbury Clock Company’, Timex became renowned for its small and accurate movements. The American brand has been present through both World Wars, and even produced their first wristwatch during WWI. Since then, Timex has adapted and changed with the times; they now produce a wide range of watches for men, women and children in a wide variety of styles. If you are looking for a quality watch at an affordable price, a Timex is the one for you.
Our Timex Pick: Timex Men’s Waterbury (40mm) Blue Dial / Brown Leather Strap TW2W14900
Paying homage to the original Timex collection, this model features the Waterbury Watch Company logo on the navy blue dial and second hand; which bears the stylised ‘W’. To give the watch a classic feel, the dial is adorned with white Roman numerals and silver hands. Alongside this, a weekday and date aperture is positioned at 3 o’clock. A brushed stainless steel case frames the dial and a hardened mineral crystal protects it. This Timex is powered by a quartz movement, so timekeeping is very precise. Securing the watch to the wrist is a brown leather strap that fastens with a pin buckle. It gives the watch a more casual feel which makes it a perfect piece to wear day in and day out. While this watch is on the more affordable side of the scale, it still displays Timex’s great attention to detail and excellent craftsmanship.
Swatch
Swatch began in the early 1980s and it was a direct result of the quartz crisis of the 1970s. To ensure that they produce affordable and high-quality timepieces, Swatch use precise and reliable quartz movements in their watches. The Swiss brand creates fun, colourful and budget-friendly watches that come in a variety of styles. So, thanks to the brand’s large portfolio, there is a perfect model for everyone.
Our Swatch Pick: Swatch Big Bold FRESH SQUEEZE Matt Green Watch SB01G101
This Big Bold oversized watch features a solid matte green plastic case and a matching silicone strap. The skeleton dial allows the wearer to see the inner workings of the watch and the quartz movement that powers it. Blue baton indices and green hands adorn the dial, and for optimal readability the hands are coated with white Swatch Glow. The contrast between green and blue reinforces the fun and colourful designs that Swatch is famous for. This model, alongside all Swatch watches, has a water resistance that makes it both suitable and practical for everyday wear. If you want a funky watch with an attractive price tag, Swatch is no doubt the brand for you!
Tissot
Although recognised as a luxury watchmaking company, Tissot produce affordable, stylish and well-built watches. The brand has been at the forefront of some the most important inventions in the horology industry and since its conception, Tissot has been a leader in the watch world. Tissot watches hold a distinctive elegant design that only a few other brands manage to achieve. With a broader, more versatile range of high-quality watches, at an attractive price, the Swiss watch brand is favoured by many.
Our Tissot Pick: Tissot Women’s Lovely Stainless Steel Bracelet Plated Silver Dial T0580091103100
This Tissot T-Lady embodies the timelessness and grace of femininity. Silver baton indices and hands complement the silver sunray dial, they have a discreet yet elegant appearance. A scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the dial and a feminine round case houses a reliable Swiss quartz movement. This material and movement showcase that although there is a large focus on the design of the watch, functionality and durability have not been pushed aside. For a glamourous touch, the stainless steel bracelet sits loosely on the wrist; it creates an almost jewellery-like effect. This stunning watch conveys the true essence of class, and while it looks expensive, is very cost-friendly. It looks perfect on the wrist of any sophisticated woman and makes a great gift for that special lady in your life.
Citizen
Originally founded in 1918, Citizen are renowned for their reliable watches at a fraction of the cost of those from luxury brands. The Japanese watch brand offers watches of varying price points, so this gives you the freedom to explore different collections and styles. In addition, they pride themselves on being ahead of their time; their revolutionary Eco-Drive Technology confirms this. Since 1986, Citizen has been the world’s largest watch manufacturer and their popularity is only continuing to grow. If you are looking for a brand with varied designs, rich heritage and attractive price points, Citizen is the one for you!
Our Citizen Pick: Citizen Women’s Calendrier Moonphase Eco-Drive Mother-of-Pearl Dial Two-Tone Stainless Steel Bracelet FD0004-51D
This Eco-Drive watch features a 37mm two-tone stainless steel case and gold-tone bezel. It has a mother-of-pearl dial and for an elegant touch, exhibits diamond indices. The dial further features gold hour, minute and second hands that tie the design together effortlessly. In addition to Eco-Drive technology, the watch contains a moonphase function and provides the month, day and date. The dial is protected by a mineral crystal, so you can be confident that the glass won’t break or scratch easily. With a water resistance of up to 50 metres, this Citizen is ideal for day-to-day wear. As a whole, this watch is a perfect blend of both style and technology. It showcases the exceptional craftsmanship that Citizen puts into every timepiece.
Mondaine
Mondaine watches are undoubtedly luxurious, however, many of them are surprisingly affordable. These watches represent the best in Swiss quality and design, and their famous red seconds hand have made them uniquely recognised around the world. Alongside their iconic design, Mondaine places a strong focus on the sustainability of their watches. For decades they have consistently maintained a responsible use of resources. As well as this, they have looked for eco-friendly solutions and alternative materials. When buying a Mondaine, not only are you getting a high-quality watch at an affordable price but a watch that is better for you and the planet.
Our Mondaine Pick: Mondaine Classic 30mm | Black Leather Strap | White Dial A658.30323.11SBB
This timepiece showcases Mondaine’s signature minimalistic design; it is simple, clean and classic. It has been crafted with a 30mm polished stainless steel case, a white dial and an iconic red crown. Mondaine is the official clock of Swiss Railway Stations, so the red seconds hand is shaped to resemble a train dispatcher’s baton. To ensure great levels of durability, a hardened mineral crystal protects the dial. Contributing to the watch’s sustainable nature is a black vegan grape leather strap with red lining; it is made out of 75% eco-composite vegetables and 25% recycled PET materials. With a perfectly balanced and sustainable design, this Mondaine classic showcases Swiss luxury but at a price accessible for all.
What did you think of our guide on 2024’s best affordable watch brands? Will you be purchasing a watch from any of the brands mentioned? Let us know in the comments!
