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.
Would a Tissot PRX 44 count?
Not “budget”. In order to qualify if should cost the same as 4 MacDonald’s meals (supersized) so think Casio f-91W
Casio mrw200 series, timex expedition scout, and orient kamasu for an auto pick
The watch community calls me poor in more way that I thought possible.
Me thinking if it’s worth buying a 700-800 watch. Watch community 'hey what a nice budget watch ’
Lol. I was going to say Vacheron Patrimony. Jajaja
Lol so true
Casio F91-W
Casio World Time
Mondaine Classic
CasiOak
I was trashing Mondaine in another thread, but their classic, simple quartz is just about perfect for what it is.
Might add the Braun watch to the list, but I think they’ve gotten more expensive.
Vostok Amphibian / Scuba Dude.
Seiko Turtle Orient Bambino Vostok Amphibia Hamilton khaki Seiko skx80x
Citizen Axiom
Bit surprised that no one else on this post has mentioned it, but I would argue that Swatch brings different and unique watches (and other concepts!) to the table. They single-handedly saved Switzerland’s watch industry with the way they produced and sold their budget-friendly watches while still maintaining an innovative streak. I realize that there are some on this channel would snub anything made by Swatch, but the parent group controls ETA SA, which makes many of the watch components used by other brands.
They get no respect on Reddit, but the Movado Museum is by far the most iconic, recognizable watch between a basic Casio and Tag Heuer.
This comment will probably get hate here but where I live this is 100% true.
The plain vanilla Movado Museum Watch is one of my favorite watch designs of all time. A shame about the actual quality of the watches, though.
Trafford Crossroads. I bought one recently and honestly, it makes me happier than a Rolex. Every time i look at it, i have to smile. Its like being on a date with a beautiful woman, it just feels good. 😂 So, there you go, that is my suggestion.
Citizen eco-drive. Amazing watch for the money.
My pro-diver eco-drive is my most reliable watch.
Raymond Weil and edox
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.