If you’re new to the world of watches, starting your collection can be a tough task — particularly if you’re on a budget. Thankfully, there are some easy rules to follow when starting your watch set, and plenty of affordable timepiece options.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to start a watch collection on a budget, and detail what kinds of watches you should be on the lookout for. You’ll be happy to know you can get some high-quality timepieces without spending upwards of a thousand dollars.
Overview:
- The Perfect Watch Collection on a Budget
- 1. Daily/Casual Watch
- Top Affordable Everyday Watches
- 2. Dress Watch
- Top Affordable Dress Watches
- 3. Sports/Diving Watch
- Top Affordable Sports Watches/Diving Watches
- How to Pick an Affordable Watch Collection
The Perfect Watch Collection on a Budget
A simple watch collection should consist of two to three watches, and a watch case to keep them in. So, what do you look for in your watch picks? Well, firstly you should find a timepiece that’s comfortable, casual (or smart casual) and easy to match with your outfits. This is your main watch.
Next, you might opt for a dressier watch that you can pair with formalwear and reserve for when you want to make an impression. The final piece of your collection could be a sports watch or diving watch, which can double as an everyday wearer.
Depending on your budget, you can go for all three watch types, or just roll with a satisfying two-watch collection. While I’ve picked some of (in my opinion) the best-looking quartz watches, I’ve also left room for some higher or lower budgets on the affordable end.
1. Daily/Casual Watch
When looking for an everyday watch, there are a few factors to look out for. One of the most important is how it feels on the wrist. Many watch enthusiasts choose a softer strap for a daily ‘beater’ watch, which could be fabric or resin.
If you do find a steel bracelet to be most comfortable, however, go for that. It’s also worth noting that while a leather strap is comfortable, it requires more care and shows wear quicker than most band types.
For a casual timepiece, you’ll want something with a simple dial, or with neutral tones. Of course, this is only a guide (go crazy with colour if you want to) but it’s always nice to have a reliable, classic watch in your collection.
Top Affordable Everyday Watches
Casio MTPVD01-2 Analogue
One of Casio’s rare analogue watches, this timepiece is very simple and very reliable. The blue sunray dial and yellow seconds hand add a little flair to this Casio watch, and the resin/stainless steel combo has durability and comfort.
Timex TW2V43700 "Standard"
This Timex watch has a neutral, simple frame and a comfortable fabric strap. This is also a chronograph, which means it’s usable as a stopwatch.
Alba ARX013X Stainless Steel
Alba watches have been gaining traction as an alternative, affordable Japanese watch brand. This model has a smooth steel bracelet, a very simple dial, and 50m water resistance. It’s also a nice-looking piece, that would go easily with most outfits.
2. Dress Watch
The next piece you’ll want to add to your collection is a dress watch. Traditionally, dress watches feature a leather strap and a gold-tone case, but there are many modern styles that go with formalwear, too.
A stainless steel watch with a smooth link bracelet can be very classy, and you’ll find plenty of excellent options in this category. Dress watch dials can range from minimalist to attention-grabbing, but the choice is yours.
This timepiece selection is one that you’ll want to keep away from physical tasks, and maybe even reserve for special occasions.
Top Affordable Dress Watches
Citizen BI1031-51L
This is a watch that could slightly stretch a budget, but it’s nonetheless an amazing watch. This stainless steel watch is designed with a suave blue dial with a date window. Luckily, at Shiels, you will likely find this great Citizen watch on sale.
JAG Xavier J2155
JAG watches are always a good option on a budget. For the price, this timepiece has excellent visuals and a dressy gold look. Its blue dial has a sophisticated look that pairs nicely with the brown leather strap and completes a modern take on the classic dress watch.
Fossil Grant Chronograph FS4813 Brown Leather
Fossil is known for rustic, sophisticated designs, and this is one of its best. The F24813 is a chronograph with some enjoyable busyness and a crisp finish. The chronograph function and slightly bigger size of this Fossil watch also offer an in-between formal and casual look, which is very versatile.
3. Sports/Diving Watch
The last piece to complete your collection is a durable sports or diving watch. This is the piece you wear when you’re working out, swimming, or even engaging in physical labour. There are a few options here, not every one of these watches is going to fulfil your specific need.
Diving watches will have higher water resistance but tend to be bulkier than most wristwatches, which is why it’s good to have one or two more watches in the rotation. Thankfully, both diving and sports watches tend to have clean, stylish designs that work for formal or casual occasions, too.
Top Affordable Sports Watches/Diving Watches
Lorus RH947GX-9 Sports Watch
This sporty timepiece doesn’t have chronograph or digital features, but it does have an excellent durable make and 100m water resistance at a striking price. I love the way this Lorus watch looks, with the stylish black and steel combo.
Active Pro Call+ II Smart Watch Black
If you’re after an affordable sports watch, it’s hard to go past this Active Pro watch at this price. Smart watches are sometimes ignored in the timepiece world, but they are very useful and especially great for sporting use. It’s a good-looking accessory, too, and has some other functions like call making and music control.
Casio MCW200H-1A2 Chronograph
You’ll be able to record stopwatch splits with this durable Casio chronograph. This has the feel of a diver’s G-Shock watch and comes with a serviceable 100m water resistance. A resin make also provides the shock resistance you’d want from a sports watch.
Casio MCW200H-1A2 Chronograph Mens Watch
$99.00
$179.00
Embrace confidence in this stylish Casio MCW200H-1A2 Chronograph Mens Watch. Monochromatic colour palette means that you can pair this watch with many different outfits. With its understated yet rugged build that is masculine and durable, this watch is perfect for… read more
How to Pick an Affordable Watch Collection
With the above selections in mind, you can begin to build your watch collection to suit your needs. Not every collection needs a diving watch or an exclusively formal watch, but it’s great to have some utility and variety in your picks.
Brands such as Timex, Alba, Lorus, Casio, Fossil and others in my suggested list are excellent places to start for affordable watches, as you can trust their quality.
Have a good think about your styles, and what kind of timepieces will fit with your wardrobe. The best thing about having a watch collection is being able to dress for the occasion. And, with some variation in colour, match your watch to your everyday looks.
