BestReviews is reader-supported and may earn an affiliate commission. Details
Menu
 
Expert Shopper Fashion Accessories

10 stylish watches that are more affordable than they look

If you're looking for a way to complete your most stylish outfits, an elegant wristwatch a great way to go about it. A watch is excellent for keeping time without looking at your phone and can also complement your outfits, making you stand out more.

The best wristwatches are made by high-quality designer brands and timepiece companies, and many cost several hundred dollars or more. However, there are plenty of watches you can add to your jewelry collection that are both stylish and affordable.

In this article: Fossil Women's Jacqueline Quartz Leather Watch, Citizen Men's Eco-Drive Sport Watch and Bulova Men's Classic Chronograph Quartz Watch.

What to consider when shopping for a watch

Quartz movement

Watches with mechanical movements are popular among purists, but most contemporary models have quartz movements. Quartz movements are less accurate than mechanical ones, but they don't require any maintenance since they're battery-powered. A battery can last several months, and once it dies, all you need to do is replace it to recalibrate your watch.

Size

The case thickness of a watch is ultimately a matter of preference, but depending on the size of your wrist, you might find that you prefer a thinner or more pronounced case. Those with a smaller wrist may like a watch with a smaller case since it is less bulky and doesn't look out of place. However, larger watches typically stand out more, so they're preferred if you want to make a fashion statement.

Band type

Most stylish watches have either a leather or stainless steel band, and either is suitable for both casual and formal wear. However, leather bands are far more comfortable and fit more easily underneath the cuff of a dress shirt, making them ideal for everyday office wear.

Hour markers

The hour markers on your watch are a matter of preference, but you should consider how easy they are to read and how prominent they are.

  • Arabic numerals are the typical way numbers are represented and are the easiest to read.
  • Roman numerals aren't for everyone since they can be challenging to read on the fly, but they give a watch a sophisticated look.
  • Tick markers look like a traditional sundial and give a watch a straightforward look that's perfect for clean-cut outfits.

Water resistance

It's not a good idea to intentionally get your watch wet, but it's good to know you can accidentally splash it without damaging it. That's why it's best to look for a water-resistant watch. The best watches can be submerged in water up to 500 feet deep before they're damaged, making them the best choice for those who might forget to take them off before swimming.

Chronograph and timer

You'll look fantastic wearing a stylish watch, but many have useful features besides enhancing your appearance and telling the time. Some watches have a built-in timer and stopwatch, so you can use them for cooking and other time-sensitive tasks.

Best affordable watches

Fossil Women's Jacqueline Quartz Leather Watch

This watch has a 36-millimeter case, giving it a slim profile that makes it perfect for both casual and dressy occasions. It has quartz movement with a three-hand analog display, a date window, a hardened mineral lens and an adjustable buckle closure.

Sold by Amazon

Citizen Men's Two-Tone Stainless Steel Bracelet Chronograph Watch

With a mineral crystal face cover and a striped dial, this watch can be your best friend when wearing business casual or formal attire. The case is 42 millimeters thick, and it has a 24-hour clock and a fold-over push-button closure.

Sold by Kohl's

Citizen Men's Eco-Drive Sport Watch

If you're going for a casual look with a bit of flash, this watch is an excellent choice for any casual or business outfit. It has a sporty style and dual time zone clock, and it keeps time in 12-hour and 24-hour formats.

Sold by Amazon

Michael Kors Lexington Stainless Steel Watch

With a high-fashion look and design, this watch oozes style and is surprisingly affordable. It has a dazzling gold-tone band and dial, a 42-millimeter case and a scratch-resistant mineral crystal glass lens. Plus, it's water resistant up to 328 feet.

Sold by Amazon

Anne Klein Women's Genuine Diamond Dial Bracelet Watch

You'll love this gold-tone watch if you want something sleek with a low profile. It has a slightly domed mineral crystal lens and a green sunray dial with a jewel at the 12-hour marker, and it's water-resistant up to 100 feet.

Sold by Amazon

Guess Men's Gunmetal Chronograph Stainless Steel Watch

This watch has a high-tech design and a brushed stainless steel case for a sophisticated look. It boasts a gray dial, blue Roman numeral markers, a date window and a durable mineral crystal. Plus, it has a fold-over clasp with a double-push button lock.

Sold by Amazon

Bulova Men's Classic Chronograph Quartz Watch

This watch has an elegant blue dial, a six-hand design, luminous hands and a stainless steel case with a 44-millimeter width. It has eight individually set diamonds around the dial and a double-press fold-over buckle. Additionally, it is water-resistant up to 100 meters.

Sold by Amazon

Michael Kors Women's Pyper Quartz Watch

It has a sleek design with a case thickness of 38 millimeters, but this watch is fantastic for formal wear and makes casual outfits pop with style. It has quartz movement and is water-resistant up to 165 feet.

Sold by Amazon

Timex Women's Two-Tone Stretch Bangle Expansion Band Watch 

This watch has a distinct stretch bangle band, giving it a modern look that is sure to catch the eyes of those around you. It has an elegant mother-of-pearl dial, an Indiglo backlight and a mineral crystal face cover.

Sold by Kohl's

Citizen Men's Eco-Drive Corso Classic Watch

Those looking for wristwear that's versatile enough for everyday wear and business casual attire will love this leather-band stainless steel watch. It has a blue dial, luminous hands and a silver-tone case with a sapphire cover.

Sold by Amazon

 

Want to shop the best products at the best prices? Check out Daily Deals from BestReviews.

Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.

Kevin Luna writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers.

Share this post: