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Time telling should be a basic feature of watches priced under $500. The bells and whistles are only extras or, properly speaking, problems after that.
Things get a little lost in spec-reading over features when thinking about the number of options you can find in a watch, whether it be mechanical or quartz, analog or digital, field or diver.
Even the Best Watches Under $500 accomplish the same function as an expensive watch, therefore inexpensive watches are just as helpful as expensive ones.
You don’t have to spend tens of thousands of dollars to add an accessory to your wrist for simple timekeeping or fashion. The best timepieces under $500 are listed below, both for collectors and casual watch wearers.
| Image | Product Name | Editor's Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Seiko 5 SNZG09K1 | Check Price | |
 | rient Mako II | Check Price | |
 | G-Shock GWM5610 | Check Price | |
 | Citizen BM8180-03E | Check Price | |
 | Timex T2N651 | Check Price |
Best Watches Under $500 Reviews
It’s time to get into our recommendations now that some of the major terms have been clarified. Even though we’ve selected models for particular categories, there is a lot of overlap because timepieces are so individualized.
Before settling on a particular model, make sure to look over the whole list of the best watches under $500.
1. Seiko 5 SNZG09K1
The Seiko 5 SNZG09K1 is the nicest-looking field watch we’ve discovered and our choice for the best automatic watch under $500. With a case size of 45mm, as opposed to the industry norm 38mm to 44mm, this beautiful wristwatch is slightly larger than other military-styled field watches, making it a much bolder watch designed for sport and casual use.
The day and date functions on the large dial are exceptionally plain and understandable, and the secondhand has a visible red pointer for simple secondhand tracking. This watch can easily tolerate rain and brief submersion thanks to its 100m water resistance.
This self-winding automatic watch is effective in terms of their design. With a 48-hour power reserve, the Seiko 5 SNZG09K1 can be removed off your wrist and continue to function for up to two days before needing to be wound up again. Of course, no batteries are needed, as with all automated timepieces.
The Seiko 5 SNZG09K1 has a see-through back that offers an intriguing glimpse into the watch’s inner workings and a somewhat larger size compared to other field watches.
2. Orient Mako II
Any devoted watch collector will concur that Orient’s Mako II is the ideal diver. This fashionable dive watch, which many people consider to be a classic, has a decently sized clock with distinctive embellishments that make it more appealing. This diver can withstand 200 meters of water, so you may use it in the shower or hot tub without fear.
Of course, that also implies that you can dive with it while wearing it. It has a strong lume that illuminates the dial’s hands and numerals as well as an accent at the 12-hour mark on the outer bezel in the dark. This watch is appropriate for daily wear thanks to the addition of a day-and-date function.
Despite being automatic, the Orient Mako II requires manual winding because its movement runs between 4 and 6 times every day. Additionally, it has second hacking, which allows you to manually change the secondhand for accurate timekeeping. Its stainless steel band, which is polished and brushed, will appear crisp and withstand any water thrown at it.
This stunning, vintage diver will perform well both below and at a weekend barbecue and is affordable enough for beginning collectors.
3. G-Shock GWM5610
The greatest digital watch under $500 is an improvement over the toughest. A tank designed to survive significant impact from daily wear and tear and up to 200 meters of water resistance is the updated DW5600, the GWM5610.
It has five daily alarms, a backlight, a stopwatch, a countdown timer, and an auto-calendar so that once set, there is no need to adjust it for leap years or shorter months.
Atomic timekeeping, which uses radio signals to automatically synchronize the time at midnight, is unique to the GWM5610. This watch can run on its Tough Solar for an incredible 18 months without being exposed to light.
The GWM5610’s clear display, which, in contrast to other G-Shock watches, makes viewing the time and date simple, is its strongest feature.
That display’s material, mineral, is very difficult to scratch. With a 43mm case width and robustness that will support daily wear, it is a sensible digital alternative.
The GWM5610 adds the bells and whistles to make it as useful as it is tough—atomic timekeeping, solar power, and an uncluttered display—to the G-Shock line of watches, which are recognized for their extreme toughness.
4. Citizen BM8180-03E
The Citizen Chandler Chronograph is a straightforward watch with a big display that keeps it distraction-free and a bright luminosity for convenient nighttime reading. It has a robust appearance.
It has two pushbuttons that can be used to start and stop the chronograph feature, and the subdials at 10 and 6 o’clock measure the passing seconds and minutes (the sundial at 2 o’clock displays the military time).
The nylon strap of this watch is made to be durable and resist ripping, however because the grommets are fairly large, it is difficult to adjust the buckle.
The Citizen Chandler Chronograph is solar-powered, so it never needs a battery replacement and its power reserve keeps it running for 150 days without light.
Its water resistance, while not as great as some of the other choices on this list, offers sufficient coverage in the rain and other wet weather, making it a good choice for hikes and erratic weekends. This clock, which comes in green and blue, gives any outfit an outdoorsy feel.
The Citizen Chandler Chronograph is a sharp field watch with large numerals and luminescent hands. It also has three appealing subdials and a powerful solar power system.
5. Timex T2N651
The Timex Weekender might be the ideal option for a budget-friendly entry-level watch. This watch has a surprising number of features that make it a good value selection. Its nylon band and large numbered dial resemble the traditional military field watch.
To make it easier to read in the dark, it incorporates a backlight that casts a cool blue glow across the entire dial. Its 38mm width makes it suitable for both sexes, and for stylistic purposes, the bands come in a range of colors.
Additionally, those bands can be changed out as well because the watch’s back has a slip-through construction that enables you to slide a new strap in place devoid of the need for equipment.
This is a reliable timepiece that you can wear without worrying about noticing it because it is lightweight. But it has drawbacks as well.
One complaint from owners is that the Timex Weekender has a somewhat loud tick. Due to its low water resistance of 30m, you might need to take it off if you need to wash dishes or get caught in the rain. It is also not suitable for extensive water activity.
The Timex Weekender is a dependable watch that’s adaptable, stylish, and surprisingly affordable with its easy-to-read face and variety of band choices.
Final Thoughts
The Best Watches Under $500 demonstrate that comfort and quality don’t require you to spend your entire income on them.
The Seiko Prospex Samurai demonstrates that it can compete with even the most lavish watches when it comes to a stylish timepiece that is dependable, water-resistant, and casual enough for everyday use.
Its straightforward layout makes it simple to read and will go with any outfit you can think of.