Best Watches Under $100
Quality watches that prove you do not need to spend a fortune. These affordable timepieces offer great value, reliability, and style.
Showing 50 watches
About Best Watches Under $100: Quality Timepieces on a Budget
Finding a quality watch under $100 is easier than ever. Today's affordable watches offer impressive features that were once reserved for luxury timepieces: reliable quartz or automatic movements, water resistance up to 200 meters, and durable construction that can last for years.
Brands like Casio, Timex, and Orient have mastered the art of delivering value. The Casio Duro, often called the "poor man's Mariner," offers 200m water resistance and a unidirectional bezel for under $50. Timex continues its legacy of affordable reliability with the Expedition and Weekender lines. Orient's Bambino automatic dress watches occasionally dip into this price range during sales.
When shopping for budget watches, focus on these key features: a reputable brand with good after-sales support, appropriate water resistance for your lifestyle, and a movement type that matches your preferences. Quartz watches require less maintenance and offer better accuracy, while affordable automatics from Seiko or Orient provide the joy of mechanical watchmaking without breaking the bank.
Don't overlook digital watches in this category. G-Shock's entry-level models and Casio's F-91W (one of the best-selling watches in history) prove that digital watches offer unmatched functionality per dollar, with features like alarms, stopwatches, and backlighting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about best watches under $100
Absolutely. Many watches under $100 offer excellent value with reliable movements, durable construction, and features like water resistance. Brands like Casio, Timex, and Seiko have decades of experience making quality affordable watches that can last for years with proper care.
Casio and Timex are widely considered the best brands in this price range. Casio excels with digital watches and the Duro dive watch, while Timex offers classic designs like the Weekender and Expedition. Orient and Seiko also have entry-level options that occasionally fall under $100.
Yes, though options are limited. Invicta and some microbrands offer automatic watches under $100, but quality can vary. Your best bet is to watch for sales on Orient or Seiko 5 automatics, which sometimes drop below $100 and offer much better value.
Prioritize water resistance (at least 50m for daily wear), a reliable quartz movement from a reputable brand, scratch-resistant crystal (mineral glass minimum), and a comfortable strap or bracelet. Avoid watches with too many complications, as quality often suffers at low price points.
A well-made budget watch from brands like Casio or Timex can easily last 5-10 years or more. Quartz movements are particularly reliable. The main failure points are usually the battery (replaceable), water resistance gaskets, and band/strap wear.
Yes, the Casio Duro (MDV106) is often considered the best value dive watch available. For around $50, you get 200m water resistance, a unidirectional bezel, reliable quartz movement, and a design inspired by luxury dive watches. It's frequently recommended by watch enthusiasts.
It depends on your needs. Digital watches offer more features (alarms, timers, backlighting) and are generally more accurate and durable. Analog watches are more traditional and often considered dressier. The Casio F-91W and G-Shock are excellent digital options, while the Timex Weekender is a popular analog choice.