How to find the coolest watch while keeping an eye on your budget

You probably remember those Seiko with a quartz movement and a two-tone design, featuring a silver case with a gold bezel, a dark matte grey dial with a day/date window, and a solid link stainless steel bracelet. These watches meant a lot to some of us because they signified a coming of age, moving away from digital or plastic camp watches to a more grown-up style. A lot of us wore it daily and later passed it on to a friend who shared their appreciation for watches.

After this era, you usually get an upgrade to something like an Oris TT1 Chronograph, a powerful Swiss automatic that marks another significant milestone: maybe you just got a new job in a new domain or maybe a career that you always dreamed about. So, your next watch needs to be even more impressive. Just think about the Omega Seamaster Professional Automatic. It can steal your attention if you ever see it in a magazine featuring Pierce Brosnan as James Bond. Trust us, you’ll love that watch like no other, and keep it for years to come.

Sure, your personal journey in selecting wristwatches may differ, but it's likely that as your knowledge and appreciation for timepieces evolve, you'll find yourself upgrading to brands that better align with your tastes. In this guide, we'll showcase a progression of watch brands, highlighting why each brand is priced as it is. From entry-level options to luxury brands, we'll provide notable examples within each category.

Timex

In recent times, Timex has shifted its focus from value to aesthetics, a departure from its previous brand identity. Timex made its mark in the 1980s and has since garnered a positive reputation with popular collections such as Ironman, Expedition, and Intelligent Quartz. Timex is an excellent option for an entry-level watch, as it does not require a significant investment. The Weekender, a classic model with a canvas strap, is priced at under $50, while even the higher-end Waterbury collection costs less than $200. For more fashionable designs, the Timex x Todd Snyder collaboration offers an expanding range of stylish options that are ideal for novice watch enthusiasts.

Invicta

Invicta is a watch brand that produces an overwhelming amount of designs with varying prices, making it difficult to navigate for newcomers. Additionally, their Home Shopping Network promotion can come off as overly flashy and extravagant. However, if you take the time to look through their selection, you can find some hidden gems that are worth investing in. It's possible to purchase a timepiece with a Japanese automatic movement and sapphire crystal, which is a great deal when you consider that the features are typically found in watches that cost twice as much. While their dive watch designs may resemble more expensive Swiss watches, models such as the Pro Diver Automatic and Speedway line are great upgrades from cheaper brands like Timex and Casio. To avoid any over-the-top designs, stick with Invicta's simpler styles and you won't be disappointed.

Fossil

If you remember Fossil watches from your high school days when your books were constantly being dropped, you'll be surprised to see how much they've changed. Nowadays, Fossil offers well-crafted and stylish watches that exude masculinity and go beyond the $200 price point. They have a sportier feel, and even their dressy models are on the larger side in terms of diameter. The materials are of higher quality than most Timex models, with mineral crystal, stainless steel, and mid-grade leather being commonly used. The Minimalist and Carlysle Smart Watch are both great options that can work as both dressy and sporty watches, without breaking the bank.

Seiko

Seiko, the Japanese watch giant, embodies the values of value, reliability, and durability better than any other brand. With hundreds of styles including sport, casual, dress, and diving watches, Seiko has something for everyone. Despite the misconception that Seiko watches are cheap due to their Japanese origin, they are widely loved in the industry for their quality, reliability, and excellent value. Every watch enthusiast should have at least one Seiko in their collection, ideally one of their exceptional automatic divers. It's no surprise that two Seiko watches made our Best Watches Under $200 list.