Whoever said you can’t get a high-quality watch on a budget is wrong. Showstopping pieces don’t need to be from Rolex or Omega.
Classic/vintage head-turner statements don’t always need an expensive watch strapped to your wrist.
With that said, here’s a rundown of the 12 Best Men’s Watches that all leave strong impressions for less than $200.
Best Overall
Citizen AU1043-00E
Best Value
Orient Men’s Mako II
Our Choice
Timex Q Reissue
TL;DR – The Best Men’s Watches Under $200
- Citizen Eco-Drive Stainless Steel Watch
- Orient Men’s Mako II Japanese Automatic Stainless Steel Casual Watch
- Timex Q Reissue 38mm SS Bracelet Watch
- Timex Weekender Chronograph 40mm Watch
- Vincero Chrono S Watch
- Timex Men’s Expedition Ranger Solar-Powered Watch
- Seiko 5 Blue Dial Stainless Steel Automatic Men’s Watch
- Casio Men’s Edifice Stainless Steel Watch
- Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Chandler Field Watch
- MVMT Minimalist Vintage Watch
- Invicta 14876 Specialty Chronograph Watch
- Seiko Sport Watch
1. Citizen Eco-Drive Stainless Steel Watch
Best Overall
Citizen is a long-time watch manufacturer and a household name for modern watches. It’s no surprise then that the Citizen eco-drive watch is one of the best choices for a daily watch wearer.
The Citizen Eco-Drive Stainless Steel is a quartz watch that speaks volumes of elegance and functionality.
Who says you can’t wear a watch that’s both practical and stylish? Well…with Citizen that’s absolutely possible and under $200!
With clearly marked luminous hands, hour markers, and a large date display on the dial, this is one watch clearly suited to the Alpha Male.
This timepiece is exceptionally classy for a reasonable price and can be worn for nearly any occasion with its brown leather strap, rose-gold stainless steel case, and black and gold dial.
Pros
- A versatile dress watch that can be worn from day to night
- It uses an anti-reflective mineral crystal dial window to protect from scratches
- Powered by Eco-Drive technology; great longevity
Specifications
- Movement: Japanese Quartz
- Model: AU1043-00E
- Materials: 40mm Stainless Steel Case, Brown Croco Leather
- Water Resistance: Splash resistant 30m
2. Orient Men’s Mako II Japanese Automatic SS Casual Watch
Best Value
The Mako II is an aesthetically designed timepiece that takes after a Rolex, and given its price point, not only does it fulfill the look but also functions well.
Its upgraded unidirectional bezel is incredibly secure, and you can be sure of its precision with its Caliber F6922 Japanese automatic movement.
Accuracy and durability for the price of one – How about that!
This automatic watch under $200 is also covered with a strong mineral crystal window to protect the dial from scratches and chipping.
This is an excellent timepiece you would be proud to own and not to mention, its price makes this watch a steal!
Pros
- The upgraded 120-click unidirectional bezel is marked clearly with excellent tactile feedback
- Features an accurate date and day window
- Suitable for marine activity and surface water sports
Specifications
- Model: FAA02009D9
- Case: 41.5mm Stainless Steel
- Water Resistance: 200m
- Blue Dial Face with Luminous Hands
3. Timex Q Reissue 38mm SS Bracelet Watch
Our Choice
The reissue of the watch brand’s classic 1979 dive watch-inspired piece has been beautifully recreated while remaining faithful to the original.
After all, nothing sparks appeal more than a classic.
In keeping with the late 70s style, the watch has a woven stainless steel bracelet.
It also includes a day date marker, an updated functional battery hatch, a rotating bezel, luminescent paint, and modern quartz movement for higher accuracy than most.
Although these aren’t GRAND aspects of a watch, that’s exactly where it shines the most: A casual timepiece to wear every day that even adds an extra athletic flair to your attire.
Pros
- Includes luminous markers and hands-on a deep blue dial for added legibility
- Domed acrylic crystal window adds a protective layer
- Highly accurate date and day window
Specifications
- Model: TW2T80700ZV
- Material: 38mm Stainless Steel Bracelet and Case
- Water Resistance: 50m
- Blue Dial Face with Blue and Red Bezel
4. Timex Weekender Chronograph 40mm Watch
Want a great affordable watch with minimalist style? You just found one.
To start with, the price point of the watch is unbeatable, and with countless choices for colors and styles, you can’t go wrong.
Its dial face is extremely legible, with clearly marked Arabic numerals and Indiglo nightlight illuminating the face at night or in low light settings.
That’s not all.
It also comes with a 30-minute chronograph that measures 1/20th of a second, and its quartz movement ensures it stays accurate and precise.
At under $60, this is one of the best affordable watches on the market to give you a ton of bang for your buck. It’s a solid piece that looks effortlessly relaxed and casual on any attire.
Pros
- Incredible value for money
- Accurate timekeeping with three chronograph setting
- Includes a date window at 4 o’clock mark
- Mineral crystal glass window protects large dial face with luminous hands
Specifications
- Model: TW2R63200
- Materials: 40mm Brass Case
- Water Resistance: 30m
5. Vincero Chrono S Watch
The Vincero Chrono S comes in several different colors with a bright and clean outer casing made with incredibly sturdy stainless steel.
It features a sapphire crystal coated window that is scratch, scrapes, and water-resistant, so you can be sure this watch will last you a long time and still look brand new.
Its Japanese Miyota quartz movement ensures accurate timekeeping, while the date window just below the 4 o’clock mark and three chronographs that serve as timers add a sophisticated touch you can’t miss.
This is a high-quality watch that sports a premium appeal, not to mention – great value for your money and an excellent option for those in need of an inexpensive dress watch.
Pros
- Elegant and luxurious design
- Scratch and water-resistant sapphire crystal window makes the dial face extremely legible
- Accurate chronograph and date window display
Specifications
- Movement: Japanese Quartz
- Materials: 43mm Stainless Steel Case, Italian Leather Band
6. Timex Men’s Expedition Ranger Solar-Powered Watch
This classic field watch is simple and charming in its rugged look.
Say that again? It’s an excellent timepiece for the outdoorsy and adventurous type.
This quartz watch features three color types, each with simple and clearly marked dial faces with yellow or green accented markers and luminous hands and indices for added legibility.
This solar-powered watch is charged by any light and has a two-month power reserve, so you won’t need to worry about the battery running out or stopping.
It has a textured leather strap that adds to the tough exterior and casual vibe. This watch is made to perform well outdoors and is a decent option for the active and athletic watch wearer.
Pros
- Double mineral crystal window for extra protection against scratching and scuffing
- Quartz powered movement for precision with a date window by the 3 o’clock marker
- Powered by any light, so it’s easily recharged
Specifications
- Movement: Japanese Quartz
- Materials: 43mm Brass Case, Textured Leather Strap
- Water Resistance: 50m
7. Seiko 5 Blue Dial Stainless Steel Automatic Men’s Watch
The Seiko 5 watch is on this list of best watches under $200 because apart from its classic, vintage appeal, it qualifies as a daily beater with a strong masculine look.
This watch features a black dial with luminous markers and a day and date window for added clarity.
The best part? Its quality stainless steel case and bracelet and Hardlex crystal window make it a sturdy watch indeed.
The Seiko 5 is a mechanical automatic watch with Malaysian self-winding automatic movement to ensure precision and accuracy in timekeeping.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Dial and markers with date and day window give increased legibility
- It has a clear analog display
Specifications
- Movement: Malaysian self-winding automatic
- Case: 41.8mm Stainless Steel
- Water Resistance: 100m
8. Casio Men’s Edifice Stainless Steel Watch
Casio is a manufacturer best known for top-quality level watch performance at affordable prices, and their Edifice watch certainly does well on that account.
This watch features a black dial with three sub-dial chronographs that all work together using quartz movement held in a stainless steel case with a mineral crystal cover.
It includes a left-handed crown and an inner bezel with a display date at the 3-hour marker.
To sum it all up, it’s a precise timepiece with an elegant and classic dial design you can wear on multiple ocassions.
Pros
- Simple and straightforward design that is easy to use
- Accurate timekeeping with quartz movement
- Highly functional chronographs and rotating bezel
Specifications
- Movement: Japanese Quartz
- Material: 45.5mm Stainless Steel
- Water Resistance: 100m
9. Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Chandler Field Watch
This is the ideal watch for people who enjoy casual outdoor adventures. It has an incredibly clear black dial with an uncluttered design and layout.
The watch features luminous markers and hands with a day and date display run by Japanese quartz.
The brand’s famous Eco-Drive ensures the watch continuously recharges with any light source and stores any extra energy in a power cell to ensure the watch runs for months on end.
It has a highly legible dial featuring Arabic numerals and a day date marker. A canvas strap makes it a good choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and wearable timepiece fit for an active lifestyle.
Pros
- Citizen Eco-Drive provides lasting energy and power storage
- The day/date display is clearly marked and stays accurate with Japanese quartz movement
Specifications
- Model: BM8180-03E
- Material: 37.2mm Stainless Steel
- Water Resistance: 100m
10. MVMT Minimalist Vintage Watch
True to its name, this watch’s design is extremely minimalist with a vintage-looking leather band, which is easily interchangeable.
This watch features a plain white dial face with simple markers and hands. It has a small date display that fits well into the minimalist look and completes the classy yet casual effect of the watch.
Looking for a simple timepiece you can wear on countless different occasions and transition easily for day or night? MVMT has it all.
Click here to read more about the MVMT watches.
Pros
- Clean and simple aesthetics
- Durable mineral crystal window with brushed stainless steel gives this watch resilience
- Powered by Japanese Miyota quartz for reliable accuracy
Specifications
- Model: L2131L331
- Case: 45mm
- Water Resistance: 30m
11. Invicta 14876 Specialty Chronograph Watch
This watch gives an elevated vibe without the luxury price. Its steel and gold-tone case add an element of uniqueness to this otherwise simple piece for men.
The black dial face features gold-tone markers and hands and chronograph subdials. Its movements are powered by Japanese quartz movement with a VD57 Caliber.
It has a unidirectional bezel, and a mineral crystal window safely protects its dial to ensure that it doesn’t incur any scratches or chipping.
This is an attractive timepiece and effective in making a statement for fancier occasions.
Pros
- Highly accurate movements powered by Japanese quartz
- The unidirectional bezel is responsive and functional
- Gold-tone steel gives the watch a particularly unique character
Specifications
- Brand: Invicta
- Model: 14876
- Case: 45mm
- Water Resistance: 50m
12. Seiko Sports Watch
This sport watch would fit well for anyone who enjoys light to heavy outdoor activities. Its black dial face comes with luminous markers and a clear day-date display.
The solar-powered quality of the watch holds up to 10 months of reserve power when fully charged. Talk about long-lasting, right?!
This watch also works reliably and accurately on Japanese quartz movement.
If you’re worried about the fit, don’t be. Thanks to its nylon band, this makes it comfortable and easy to wear for any kind of active or athletic affairs.
If you need a simple watch that not only delivers on its purpose of telling time but is also comfortable and highly functional, this is a watch you can’t go wrong with.
Pros
- Simple and classic design that wears well
- Hardlex dial window and stainless steel case are durable
- Solar power and luminous hands are suitable for outdoor activities
Specifications
- Movement: Japanese Quartz
- Model: SNE331
- Case: 43mm
- Water Resistance: 100m
Best Men’s Watches Under $200 Buyer’s Guide
Get to Know the Manufacturers
Every watch brand has something specific to offer, and each timepiece they make is the product of their skills and strengths.
This list may have been too concise to really show what the watches can do, so here’s a little more information about their makers.
Seiko
If you’re a fan of affordable automatic watches, then you already know who they are.
Seiko is a well-known manufacturer not only in Japan but also around the world for their budget and mid-range watches and for making all of their pieces in house.
They make top-quality high functioning watches, and though they may not be as reliable as Swiss makes, the value for money is truly unbeatable.
Seiko watches are always a good option for entry-level pieces.
Seiko also walks away with the #1 spot in our “Best Dress Watches under $200” article.
Citizen
The Japanese manufacturer Citizen is one of the biggest in the business.
They have made several important innovations in the watchmaking industry, such as their Eco-Drive technology, which allows their watch movements to be powered by solar and artificial light.
They are also the owners of the Miyota quartz movement technology, which is widely used for many fashion watches.
Orient
Although this manufacturer is a subsidiary of Seiko, it maintains itself as a wholly separate watchmaker. Orient also makes all of their watches and movements in-house, which the brand is very proud of.
They make modern and elegant pieces, one of the best sellers is a dive watch, but they also make excellent dress watches and field watches.
With the company’s high level of quality control — they’re all over the world– rest assured the performance of their watches doesn’t disappoint.
MVMT
MVMT may be a lesser-known watch manufacturer than some others on this list, but that doesn’t mean that their timepieces should be underestimated.
Founded in 2013, the company had a goal to create trendy minimalist pieces at an affordable price range.
One of the best selling points of the company is their offering of a two-year guaranteed warranty on all their items — that’s how sure they are of their pieces.
Invicta
Invicta, founded in 1837, is well-known for the quality of its case construction.
With this brand, you know you’re getting a high build quality watch. They have collaborated with several famous brands and names and continue to innovate their designs and functions.
Although their pieces may still be pricier than some, with an Invicta timepiece, it’s like getting a luxury watch at a fraction of the price.
Timex
Timex has been making watches since 1854, so you can rest easy if you’re worried about the quality.
They have timekeeping for astronauts and presidents all under their belt, and according to their site, they won’t stop.
They make easily worn, reliable timepieces at an affordable price range, all in different styles for several occasions.
Casio
Founded in Japan over half a century ago, Casio’s brand is about “creativity and contribution”.
They champion themselves in making affordable watches that are useful and functional above everything.
Their innovations are driven by the daily life and use of ordinary human beings, and it’s why their company is one of the world’s most trusted brands.
If you’re looking for something cheaper, check out our article on the Best Watches Under $100.
Recommendation:
Citizen Eco-Drive Stainless Steel Watch
★★★★★
Final Thoughts
Even if your watch isn’t as expensive as a Rolex or an Audemars Piguet, that doesn’t mean that you’re sacrificing its quality.
A good timepiece not only lasts years but is impactful and personal, regardless of the price.
Hopefully, this list has helped in showing some of the different watch brands providing classy yet affordable statement pieces.