You may take a look at "Buying Guide" in this sub.
this post was submitted on 25 Nov 2023
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If you are new to watches, make sure you understand the difference between a quartz watch and an automatic (mechanical). A good video talking about the strengths and weaknesses of each
Ty! Just watched it and it was definitely helpful
I’ve found quartz watches to be way more enjoyable. If you don’t care about what makes it tick and just want an accurate and not too heavy watch, quartz is the way to go. Usually much cheaper as well.
I purchased a Orient Kamasu from Jomashop for $180. It’s $300+ retail rn $460 when it came out. You don’t get a warranty because it’s grey market but it’s brand new. Amazing watch
Seiko and its subsidiaries (Orient and Lorus) have some strong options in this price range. Along a similar line, Citizen watches are very good value.
Casios are also exceptional value, with Gshocks and the retro digital watches having quite the following even amongst people with more expensive watches in their collection. They definitely feel like budget watches though, you get what you pay for in terms of materials and build quality.
I don't think you can go wrong with any of these options, I'd just strongly recommend staying away from "fashion" brands (Hugo Boss, Armani etc.) and kickstarter crap that can be eye-catching in budget price ranges, but are almost invariably overpriced and terrible quality.
If you have a rugged/outdoorsy lifestyle, explore G-Shock! Loads of YouTube videos about which ones to loo for, but the DW5600 and 5610 are classics.
If you have a more stylish/buttoned-up aesthetic, check out the Orient Bambino 38mm options. Beautiful watches, amazing price, great brand to get into for a first watch.
If you want to get weird, look at Vostok and Raketa--both are ex-Soviet brands that make interesting (sometimes loud) watches for very little money.
Then there's the vast universe of microbrands and Chinese watches, which I know nothing about (they've emerged more recently, and each are a whole "scene"). Each have their own subreddits and experts.
Seiko casio timex orient
You can find some pretty nice citizen eco drives on sale for around that price point
A few Casios. Go on Amazon, type in “analog Casio’s” and enjoy.
A solar watch is probably the best watch for everyday wear. It's accurate, robust and needs no mentenance apart from not hiding it in a drawer in the dark when not wearing it.
If you are in the US you can find sone very nice watches in that price range on the officialwatchdeals store on ebay.
Here's a titanium diver and a good or a more casual one o a leather strap..
Also check out my other similar comment.