Seiko and its subsidiaries (Orient and Lorus) have some strong options in this price range. Along a similar line, Citizen watches are very good value.

Casios are also exceptional value, with Gshocks and the retro digital watches having quite the following even amongst people with more expensive watches in their collection. They definitely feel like budget watches though, you get what you pay for in terms of materials and build quality.

I don’t think you can go wrong with any of these options, I’d just strongly recommend staying away from “fashion” brands (Hugo Boss, Armani etc.) and kickstarter crap that can be eye-catching in budget price ranges, but are almost invariably overpriced and terrible quality.

Tissot Gentleman is a smart, versatile watch in that price range.

If you buy it in Japan it will always have that extra sentimental value. Worth the wait imo.

I’d look at field watches - Hamilton Khaki Field and Seiko Alpinist are good options, as is the Bulova Hack for something under £500.