Our Favorite Watches to Buy for Less Than $200
A luxury timepiece is a true status symbol. But while immortalized in hip-hop lyrics and flashed by the most influential names in the world, the likes of Rolex, Audemars Piguet, and Hublot are, for the majority, an aspirational accessory. So, while you're working on making your millions, we thought it helpful to share some steezy affordable watches that won't break the bank.
While luxury watches can come with five-to-six-figure price tags, (though you can cop a very nice second-hand luxury watch for less) extra digits do not necessarily equate to extra style points. A budget of sub-$200 won't mean you have to compromise on a fashion-forward time teller, but rather the intricacies of its movements and the (most likely) Swiss craft that gives the big names their steep values.
Check out our full selection of affordable watches below, and click through to shop.
VAER Standard Issue Design Quartz Watch
There are some very exciting new names in the world of watches right now. take VAER, for example. Founded in just 2016, it's quickly climbed the ranks to become a focus in the world of independent watch brands. Ranging from Swiss-made diving watches to super-affordable pieces like the Standard Issue Design, it runs the gamut of contemporary horology. This fully waterproof design is powered by a Japanese Miyota Quartz movement which, at this price, is as good as they come.
Nixon Time Teller Watch
Nixon's chunky timepieces often steal the limelight, and it's usually what your mind jumps to when you hear the name Nixon. But the watchmaker has a whole host of light, unimposing timepieces with retro style credentials like the Time Teller Watch. This understated design features a brushed gold finish with a contrasting green dial.
Nixon Porter Watch
A leather strap combined with a clean dial will always work. We'll always have a piece like this in our rotation because when all else fails, you know you can rely on it. Powered by a Miyota Japanese quartz 3-hand movement, Porter is as precise as it is timeless.
D1 Milano Nano Rainbow Nanochrome
An octagonal case has come to be a recognizable marker of a luxury watch, but D1 Milano's take on the style sits at a much kinder price tag than you might expect. This matte-black design is underlined by four multicolor markings to the dial which add punch to a super sleek 32mm build.
Timex Waterbury
When you're looking for affordable watches, one of your first ports of call should be Timex. The brand has been producing watches that function (and look) well above their price range since 1854. Excluding the Timex branding, you'd be forgiven for thinking that the Waterbury, with its initialed second hand, was worth a couple of thousand.
G-SHOCK GMA-S2100-7AER
While the design is far from timeless, G-SHOCK's unapologetic chunk has, perhaps surprisingly, stood the test of time. These indestructible timepieces are ideal for those looking to go above and beyond with their watch — take it underwater, graze rocks, and cover it in mud, this one won't stop ticking.
Timex Q Diver's Watch
The Timex Q Reissue is one of the best ways to get involved in the world of diving watches. A classic black dial with lume markings is framed by an eye-catching two-tone bezel.
casio AE-1200WHD-1AVEF
Casio's once futuristic digital displays now feel more retro but our appreciation of them hasn't changed a bit. The AE-1200WHD-1AVEF features a four-timezone display initiated easily with the map icon, as well as a digital depiction of a classic dial to the top left, and a digital display front and center.
Timex Harborside Coast Watch
Watch fiends have long obsessed over Rolex's green-dialed Submariners — dubbed Rolex Hulks — but, with a price tag beginning around the $30,000 mark it might be worth looking elsewhere. With the same effect, albeit lower-quality materials and movement, the Timex Harborside Coast in green is a much kinder option.
Braun Armbanduhr Klassik BN0021
Few brands have secured such a prominent place in the design hall of fame as Braun has. The mind of design icon Dieter Rams brought Braun to where it is now: the last word in efficient, minimal design. Abiding by Rams' 'less but better' MO, the Armbanduhr Klassik features only what is necessary.
Timex x Peanuts Take Care Watch
Designed in collaboration with Peanuts, the Take Care watch is made from earth-friendly materials in line with its 'Go Green' detailing. Powered by a quartz movement, it offers the reliability and affordable style that has positioned Timex as one of the most popular imprints around.
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