I feel like a lot of the love for budget brands like Seiko, Orient, Tissot amongst watch enthusiasts ties to tribute watches, aka watches that are presented as more affordable alternatives to iconic luxury watches, be it the seiko tank, the steel integrated bracelet watches, that have been coming out lately, lacos flieger watches etc.

While I have a lot of love for tribute time pieces, I would like to know, what are some watches from budget brands, that have brought something different and unique to the table, and have claimed an iconic status entirely on their own merit.

The first ones that come to my mind is the original G-Shock Square from the 90s, and the Seiko SKX,

I would love to hear your picks.

  • Zamboni4201@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    Any of the Seiko Cocktail Times. I have SRPB41, SRPJ13, and an SRPH78. Web pics are awful. YouTube for any of them is so much better. I get more questions about my Cocktail Times than all other watches combined.

    Seiko 5 divers Orient Kamasu. Any of their Bambino’s… although I prefer the dials on the Cocktail Times for a bit more money.

    Seagull 1963, Studio Underd0g, or any of the others that use the Seagull ST19 chrono movement. Lorier, Baltic, others. Studio Underd0g can be tough to get, and they’re a bit higher price than others. I have the Strawberries chrono.

    Spinnaker, Phoibos have some nice watches. Some sell pretty quick.

    Islander also. I just got their newest Rangemaster v2. Pretty certain this one sold out quick. Nice for $320. Good size, accurate movement, good lume, nice canvas strap.
    They do a lot of nice upgrades over some other lower priced watches. Sapphire, good bracelets.