I know nothing about watches. Nothing. I have an Apple Watch but am interested in picking up something that I can wear in professional settings. I work in tech sales. Rolex’s are common in my industry but they scream douchebag to me. I want something that is well made and that will last. I don’t know watch brands but I’m hoping for something that is nice, will compliment a tailored suit or a blazer OR a black tshirt. And I want a brand that doesn’t scream that I’m trying too hard. TIA.
Bookmarking this post for later! Thank you!
FWIW, do a web search for best watches under $500 then read articles that provide long lists with pictures and descriptions. They will often categorize the types (as others here have noted) which can help you decide what you do and don’t like. Start making a list. Spreadsheet is what I do. - I’m relatively new to collecting and have several different sheets with Wish List (Grail) watches, Under $1000, and Under $500 sorted. This helps me to go back another day and decide " what was I thinking? Nope!" and cross some off. There are lots of beautiful watches in that under $500 range. Narrow your search using the articles. Oh yeah, then search out a deal on the cost. My daily is a Seiko 5 Sports that retails at $300 and I got for $200. Then I swap bands aloy for colors etc.
I’m surprised Shinola watches haven’t been mentioned
Anyone got recommendations for the same criteria, but in HR and not tech? 🥸
It’s under your price, but if you want something a bit smaller, you could get a Seiko SNXS79 on the grey market. Simple, elegant, looks kind of like a Rolex Oyster Perpetual without being one. Bullet proof watch.
Just posted this one for sale on r/watchexchange today
That’s a super looking watch
I have a lip as my main driver and I love it. Was 400€ and is a fully mechanic skeleton watch.
metal gshock square
A few other microbrands worth looking at are Holzkern, Sternglas, and Lilienthal Berlin.
Currently my every day watch is my IWC Chronograph 41, and I often find myself staring at my colleagues Shinola Runwell. He’s from Detroit, so he’s showing love. For around $500, those are really eye catching watches.
I started with Citizen and if I were to buy now it would probably be a Hamilton field watch.
Any particular styles or designs that you like? Do you like quartz (battery operated) or mechanical? (Spring and gears that can last for decades but less accurate and expensive to service.
I was going to suggest the Mercie field watches and Le Grandpa, Bulova Aerojet, and a Seiko SUR309 for quartz. The Citizen eco drives also have a wide assortment of styles!
For mechanical, same thing with Mercie field watches, most of Seagulls’s dress variety, Seiko Cocktail, Orient Bambinos, and Tissot LeLocle.
Rolex’s are common in my industry but they scream douchebag to me.
Ow!
I love Traska at that entry point. I could see Seiko or Lorier (for smaller wristed folks) as well.
A good option for you could be a Tissot Gentleman with either a Quartz or Automatic movement. It’s a good looking watch, well built by a reputable Manufacturer. I think you’d like it.