It’s easy to get caught up in the high rolling watch brands. The Rolex, Patek Philippe, or Omega’s of the world. But for many starting out, it’s unlikely you’ll be splashing $30,000 plus on your first nice watch.
Here’s our ten picks for standout watches under $2,000, and great starts to your watch collection.
Hamilton Khaki Field Murph 38mm
Known from the film Interstellar, the Murph 38mm is a no brainer. Its clean, and compact which suits modern tastes, while the cathedral hands and vintage lume give off a classic feel. The H-10 movement offers an impressive 80-hour power reserve
- Case Size: 38mm
- Movement: Automatic H-10
- Water Resistance: 100m
Price: ~$895 USD - Pros: Iconic design, long power reserve
- Cons: No date function
Seiko Prospex Alpinist SPB121
Originally designed for Japanese mountaineers, the Alpinist SPB121 is my pick. It’s elegant but rugged with the green dial, gold accents and leather strap, all while the internal compass bezel adds functionality.
- Case Size: 39.5mm
- Movement: Automatic 6R35
- Water Resistance: 200m
- Price: ~$690 USD
- Pros: Distinctive design, robust build
- Cons: Thicker case profile may not suit smaller wrists
Mido Ocean Star Tribute
The Ocean Star Tribute pays homage to Mido’s 1960s dive watches. Its clean dial, unidirectional bezel, and reliable movement make it a solid choice for dive watch enthusiasts.
- Case Size: 40.5mm
- Movement: Automatic Caliber 80
Water Resistance: 200m - Price: ~$850 USD
- Pros: Vintage appeal, strong specs
- Cons: Limited availability in some regions
Longines HydroConquest
The HydroConquest is Longines’ appropriately budgeted dive watch. You’ll get a ceramic bezel and automatic movement for durability and precision at depths. Perfect for the Henry Cavill fans out there, who recently became an ambassador for Longines.
- Case Size: 41mm
- Movement: Automatic L888
Water Resistance: 300m - Price: ~$1,700 USD
- Pros: High water resistance, refined design
- Cons: Slightly higher price point
TAG Heuer Aquaracer
The TAG Heuer Aquaracer is a classic. You can often pick up vintage models for under $2,000, which offer a sporty design with professional-grade features. Pair this with brand prestige and it’s hard to go past one.
- Case Size: 43mm
- Movement: Automatic Calibre 5
- Water Resistance: 300m
- Price: ~$1,900 USD
- Pros: Robust build, versatile style
- Cons: Larger case may not suit all wrists
Tissot PRX Powermatic 80
The PRX Powermatic 80 revives a 1970s design with modern mechanics. Its integrated bracelet and slim profile give off a sleek look, while the movement provides an 80-hour reserve.
- Case Size: 40mm
- Movement: Automatic Powermatic 80
- Water Resistance: 100m
- Price: ~$650 USD
- Pros: Stylish design, long power reserve
- Cons: Integrated bracelet limits strap options
Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical
A nod to military watches, the Khaki Field Mechanical is simple and reliable. Its hand-wound movement and clean dial boast function over form, a perfect entry point to well made watches.
- Case Size: 38mm
- Movement: Manual H-50
- Water Resistance: 50m
- Price: ~$575 USD
- Pros: Authentic military style, durable
- Cons: Manual winding required
Casio G-Shock DW5000R
A G-Shock needed to be included here. Costing only a few hundred dollars for base models, they’re reliable and practical. It has a stopwatch and alarm system and is the perfect daily wearer for those getting their hands dirty.
- Case Size: 42.8mm
- Movement: Quartz
- Water Resistance: 200m
- Price: ~$217 USD
- Pros: Durable, feature-rich
- Cons: Digital display and bulky design may not appeal to all
Timex Q Timex GMT
The Q Timex GMT brings a retro vibe with its 24-hour bezel and quartz movement. Its affordability and design make it a great entry-level GMT watch.
- Case Size: 38mm
- Movement: Quartz
- Water Resistance: 50m
- Price: ~$200 USD
- Pros: Affordable, vintage charm
- Cons: Lower water resistance
Orient Bambino
The Bambino offers classic dress watch aesthetics at an accessible price. It has a domed crystal with a clean dial, perfect for formal occasions and those who prefer a more delicate watch.
- Case Size: 40.5mm
- Movement: Automatic F6724
- Water Resistance: 30m
- Price: ~$150 USD
- Pros: Elegant design, budget-friendly
- Cons: Limited water resistance