We’ve all been there. Having a conversation with someone, and all of a sudden you’ve lost their attention. They’re looking at a message on their Apple Watch. Or maybe this is you – and you’re ready to get your attention back, and look more stylish doing it! 2024 might be the year to ditch your Apple Watch and put something else on your wrist. But making the switch doesn’t have to cost a fortune. While a new Rolex might be a dream, you can spend thousands less and still get a nice and interesting piece. So here are Five Affordable Watches from $40 to $500 that you should check out if you want to ditch your Apple Watch!
Under $100
Timex Weekender
I have had a Timex Weekender for years. It was my first segue into watches, and the perfect option because it costs $40! It has been durable, and I think the small 38mm case size is really wearable. I also really like NATO straps like the one that comes on the watch. This watch is part of what developed my love for this type of strap. I own multiple and wear them often on all of my watches. I like the NATO straps from Barton Watches as a great affordable option. It can add a ton of variety to your wristwear!
Under $200
Orient Bambino
The Orient Bambino is definitely on my short list of watches I want next. It has a classic, timeless design. The Japanese automatic movement is reliable. It’s incredibly versatile looking. All of that comes in under $200. It’s a pretty crazy value for the price. The Bambino is technically a dress watch. But, I think it can look really cool worn casually as well. If you want to dip your toes into automatic watches, this would be a great place to start.
Under $300
Seiko 5 SRPK29
Obviously, $300 is nothing to scoff at. It is a fairly substantial chunk of change. But, with this Seiko 5 Sports Watch, you are getting some awesome value. It has a classic, diver style that is reminiscent of many watches 10 times the price. You could easily take the bracelet off and accessorize the watch with a NATO strap giving you a ton of versatility. And again with an automatic movement, this is just a very nice well-rounded watch. The only downside with this watch, in my opinion, is the asymmetrical crown on the side. Some people love it, it just is not my personal preference! Your mileage may vary!
Under $400
Citizen Tsuyosa
I may be showing some bias here. I wanted to include a watch that I currently have in my collection! The Citizen Tsuyosa has been heavy in my rotation since I got it. It’s a simple watch that is extremely wearable. It pairs effortlessly with a wide variety of outfits. The 40mm case wears a bit smaller than that in my opinion. And, it comes in a ton of different colors to suit your preferences! I have navy blue, but I think the white, green and yellow are super fun too. It has a unique look, with an integrated bracelet similar to the Tissot PRX. The downside to that is you can’t change out the bracelet to another type of strap. But, if you want a watch you can wear on a bracelet all the time, this is a great option!
Under $500
Seiko 5 GMT
The Seiko 5 GMT is definitely next on my wish list. It is such a stylish piece with great functionality. The two tone bezel is really neat. I think it makes the watch extremely wearable. The jubilee bracelet is also really sharp looking! The GMT functionality will be a nice bonus if you’re a person on the go. It’s the type of functionality you usually pay a premium for, so in a less than $500 package, it is hard to beat.
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