The best wrist watch for men doesn’t have to cost the world. But nor does it have to sacrifice on style or functionality! Today, we’re spotlighting 15 outstanding affordable wrist watches across a variety of styles and budgets.
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As a man, there is no better way to communicate your style than through a wrist watch. Whether it’s the traditional throwbacks or the modern timepieces with all the upgrades, a good watch brings the best out of any outfit and displays effortless style.
Wrist watches belong to numerous categories, ranging from chronographs to luxury watches to digital watches. Today, even people who don’t consider themselves “watch people” cannot resist the allure of fashion watches with can be worn as jewelry.
There is an enormous selection of men’s wrist watches, and it can be tricky to choose a suitable one to add to your selection. But hey, we have done all the work for you. If you are looking for the best wrist watch for men, today is your lucky day.
ALSO READ: Best EDC Watches
15 Best Cheap Watches for Men
In today’s marketplace, it’s more than feasible to assemble a fine wardrobe without going all out price-wise. To that end, we review the top 15 affordable wrist watches for men across a range of styles, diameters, and price points.
1. CakCity | Digital Sports Watch
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The CakCity digital sports watch is a tough wrist watch for men that comes at an incredibly low price. This is a multi-functional timepiece, fitted with a stopwatch, automatic date, and built-in alarm. Thanks to the backlit large LED display, reading info is a cinch even while in the dark.
The 50 meters water resistance allows you to wear it as you swim, bathe, in the rain, or washing hands. But don’t press any buttons underwater to avoid damaging the watch.
This Cak City timepiece is a workhorse with a shock-resistant design that allows it to withstand impact damages. It’s durable and will unreservedly serve you in your outdoor and indoor sports activities. What’s more? The offerings are in 5 colors, so you are sure to find one that will float your boat.
2. Timex Wrist Watch | Expedition Scout
If you searching for the best cheap wrist watch for men, this 40mm military-inspired timepiece from Timex is a good start. While the green canvas strap is the most common, you will also find leather and nylon strap options of your liking. The minimal face comprises indices and numerals, and luminous hands.
A scratch-resistant mineral glass crystal covers it. And thanks to the Indiglo backlight, you will have no issues reading time after nightfall.
The Timex Men’s Expedition has a water resistance of up to 50 m, so you don’t have to take it off while in the rain or during short swimming sessions. But avoid using it for snorkeling or diving to avoid damaging it. With Timex Expedition Scout, you have an adventure companion that will be with you as you travel, camp or hike.
3. PALADA | Digital Sports Watch for Men
The PALADA men’s digital sports watch fits the bill of any man searching for a stylish sports watch. This tactical timepiece comes with a heavy-duty construction that adds to its overall durability. Moreover, the electronic Japanese quartz movement means you can trust this timepiece to always tell the precise time–withstanding the daily jolts and jostles with poise.
This is a swimmer’s ideal selection as it is water-resistant for up to 50 meters. But you must keep your hands off the buttons while in the water if you don’t want to cut its life short. The shock-resistant design means Palada can handle anything you throw it, making it a suitable timepiece for outdoors or indoors.
The LED digital military-grade display makes reading time a breeze during the day and night. Palada is multifunctional, offering you an alarm, a calendar, and a stopwatch. To crown this is a low price tag.
4. Fossil Watches for Men | Grant Stainless Steel Quartz Chronograph
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Fossil is dead serious about infusing life into creating everyday accessories that you can rely on. If the Fossil Grant watch is anything to go by, they are definitely succeeding. Not only does this watch come with killer looks, but it also packs a serious punch when it comes to functionality.
For starters, it sports a 42mm stainless steel case that is water-resistant for up to 165 feet. This makes it perfect for showering or recreational swimming but not for snorkeling or diving. A hardened mineral crystal face protects the dial, the quality standard to most any Fossil wrist watch.
The dial is intricate, featuring Roman numeral markers and 3 chronograph subdials for monitoring hours, minutes, and seconds. Movement is by quartz, so time accuracy is guaranteed. With this one, you have a timepiece to rock to any formal occasion.
5. SUUNTO | Core Outdoor Men’s Sports Watch
If you are on a hunt for a tactical watches for men that will withstand the hardiest of environments, this SUUNTO Core sports watch awaits you. This durable piece will withstand elements such as dirt, water, and dust with ease. It packs amazing features, too.
Think about an altimeter that allows you to track your descents and ascents and a barometer that detects air pressure. No bad weather will catch you unawares as the storm alarm makes noise and flashes to inform you way beforehand. It comes with a compass too.
What’s more? You can also preset sunrise and sunsets for more than 400 locations so you can always predict what is ahead. And did we say it can handle temperatures up to negative 5 degrees to over 140 degrees?
6. Casio | Analog Sports Watches for Men
Casio made a name for themselves by manufacturing comfortable, functional, and reliable watches for many years. Their timepieces don’t cost an arm and a leg and are incredibly precise. Take the case of the Casio Analog Sport Watch.
This Casio wrist watch offers you a 12/24 hour timekeeping, with a day and date display at 3 o’clock. The mineral crystal window covers the enlarged indexes that allow you to read the time quickly. Couple that with the rotating bezel, and you will accurately track time, with ±20 seconds every month.
Since it’s only waterproof up to a depth of 100 meters, it cannot allow for scuba diving. But the timepiece will still be a perfect aquatic partner if you are one for water sports such as snorkeling, sailing, or surfing.
7. Timex Watches for Men | Ironman Classic 30
If you are an athlete and need a watch that withstands rain, sweat, and water alike, the 38mm Timex Ironman Classic 30 was built with people like you in mind.
This timepiece offers you a lap counter, calendar, stopwatch, and multiple alarms for seamless training sessions. Not forgetting a water resistance of up to 330 ft (100m), perfect for snorkeling and swimming. And yes, it comes packed with a 100-hour chronograph that memorizes up to 30 laps.
The watch has an easy-to-read display with an Indiglo backlight for easy reading even in low light conditions. While it’s not constructed of pricey materials such as stainless steel or titanium, the sleek resin case is quite durable. It will allow you to explore the outdoors even in the worst of weather conditions.
8. Invicta | Pro Diver Automatic Watches for Men
With its great looks and functionality, the Invicta Pro Diver is exactly the type of wrist watch you need on your hands. The Pro Diver automatic watch is built with the divers in mind as it is water-resistant for up to 200 meters. So if you are an avid scuba diver, here is your match.
The blue dial perfectly contrasts with the silver hour marker and the luminous hands with the date window strategically on the 3 o’clock position. The bracelet is magnificent too, with gold and a silver-tone. This rich combination of colors gives the Pro Diver killer looks.
Invicta’s movement is automatic and reliable, so no need for batteries. If you are a classy man looking to make a statement, this well-constructed timepiece will be a great fit.
9. FIZILI | Ultra-Thin Minimalist Watches for Men
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Looking for the perfect dress watch? You’ll get more with this super sleek timepiece from FIZILI. This is a true minimalist watch that will fit snugly on your wrist while displaying sophistication. You can have it in matte black or a beautiful blue.
FIZILI offers a wrist watch for men which is incredibly compact at only 7 mm thick, making it a suitable everyday accessory. Just tuck it under your sleeves or cuffs, and you are good to go.
The dial is round and clutter-free, with only a seconds dial adorning its simple face. Time adjustment is a breeze.
Whether you wear the FIZILI ultra-thin timepiece to a formal occasion or events such as parties or weddings, it packs a cool factor that will get heads turning.
10. Fossil Wrist Watch | Coachman
The classic Coachman is a testament to what the Fossil wrist watch brand can do. A key factor driving its popularity is its casual appearance comprising a simple dial face and a leather strap. This makes it suitable for everyday wear.
The Coachman uses a battery-powered three-hand quartz movement to deliver accurate time in 24-hour format.
Fossil also throws in a stopwatch that lies on two subdials and can measure time up to half an hour. A 44 mm stainless steel case encloses these functions, with a hardened mineral crystal sitting on top.
This is a practical timepiece, packed with 330 feet of water resistance. Although this is not enough to handle scuba diving, you can still swim, bathe and snorkel without a hitch. Fossil offers the Coachman in several iterations; you will no doubt find one that goes with your style.
11. Casio Wrist Watch | MQ24-1E with Black Resin Case
The Casio MQ24-1E features a timeless black and gold design that gives it a simple yet classy appearance. Thanks to the classic and minimalist design, you can wear it to any occasion without looking out of place.
This Casio timepiece boasts a resin case, a comfortable rubber bracelet with a buckle clasp that you can adjust to fit your wrist. Inside the mineral crystal window is a black dial face with gold-tone hour, minute markers, and gold hands to complete the classy look.
The Japanese quartz movement means no winding, shaking, or regular maintenance is needed on this timepiece. In fact, with proper handling, the timepiece will not need a battery replacement for 2 years. You will also enjoy some water resistance but not enough dive, shower, or swim.
If you are looking for a wrist watch that will blend with most of your wardrobe, this one will make you happy.
12. Michael Kors | Runway Watches for Men
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Here is a timepiece from Michael Kors that fuses a simple design and sophistication.The Michael Slim Runway is a real minimalist wrist watch for men no more than slashes in place of numerals and buttons on the side- Just the basic functions for timekeeping. But it still oozes class, thanks to its stainless steel construction.
Despite the minimalist design and pretty looks, this Michael Kors watch will impress you with practicality. For example, it can resist water up to 165 feet, perfect for a light and recreational swim. It’s not suitable for snorkeling and diving, though. The mineral crystal glass is scratch-resistant to maintain the Slim Runway’s good looks.
This one is ideal for a man who appreciates class without being flashy.
13. SEIKO Automatic Watches for Men | SNK805 SEIKO 5
If you are looking for an affordable automatic watch, look no further than the classic Seiko 5. This military-inspired watch features a day and date function set at 3 o’clock. Similar to other quality field watches, it does not disappoint with the green canvas strap making it easy to wear. Don’t forget, it’s tough and will not easily damage.
Inside the stainless steel case is the easy-to-read green dial, thanks to the Arabic numeral hour and minute markers. An automatic movement powers the silver-toned hands, so there is no need for a battery. But you must wear the watch for more than 8 hours to sufficiently power the watch.
Water-resistance is up to 99 feet, so you may not swim or dive too deep with the Seiko 5. But rain, brief immersion in water, or splashes cannot damage it.
14. Biden | Mens Chronograph Watches
Biden chronograph watches for men are for those looking for a beautiful timepiece that will breathe life into their wardrobe. But Biden is not all about style and elegance–it’s durable, too. How about a stainless steel back cover that gives it shockproof and rust-proof capabilities?
Bearing it on your wrist is pure bliss, thanks to the stainless steel strap that’s comfortable and friendly to the skin.
This timepiece features a precise quartz movement and a date function. With an accuracy rate of less than a second daily, you can expect precise time readings all the time. The watch can handle water splashes or sweat, but swimming, diving, and bathing with it may damage it.
This timepiece will be glad to grace any casual or formal occasion. It comes packed in a stylish plush bag, making it a perfect gift idea.
15. BENYAR | Wrist Watch for Men
You can look stylish without breaking the bank. Try this Benyar timepiece. The contrast between the silver and the black color scheme makes it a statement watch, exuding luxury only associated with pricier timepieces.
BENYAR features a case constructed of a 43 mm alloy with a high gloss silver finish. This blends perfectly with the black dial and black leather band. The dial is also nicely done, with the silver-colored minute and hour markers. The hands have a white touch to make them more visible.
The chronograph functionality comprises second, minutes, and hour subdials which deliver a good visual charm. They also include a calendar function. Despite all the details on the face, the Benyar still maintains a clutter-free appeal.
The Benyar quartz wrist watch for men is a perfect partner outdoors or indoors. While you cannot bathe, swim, or dive with it, it can handle occasional water contacts with rain, hand washing, or splashes. All in all, this well-crafted timepiece is stylish and classy enough to rock to any occasion.
How to Buy the Best Budget Wrist Watch for Men
If you are looking for an affordable wrist watch that aligns with your lifestyle and personality, be ready to spend some time on finding it. Otherwise, you will find yourself looking for a replacement sooner than you expected. If you want a watch that will suit you for the long haul, here are some things to consider.
Type
Digital timepieces boast large numbers adorning the face to show the time. Analog watches on the other hand come with clock hands and digits or roman numerals. Casual or luxury watch brands often feature analog faces, while a digital interface is commonly found in most sports watches.
The choice between the two is a matter of preference. Digital wrist watches, though, are easier to read and come with more features than analog watches. However, they are more likely to break down and may lack the appeal of analog watches.
Style
You can either choose a sport, casual, luxury, or vintage wrist watch. The occasion you plan to attend should determine the style you choose. For example, if you want one to wear to a business event, you cannot go wrong with a luxury timepiece.
A casual or a vintage timepiece will be ideal for informal settings. But if you are an athlete, a digital watch has everything you need to ace your practices.
Material
The band and case come in different materials, including canvas, gold, plastic, silver, leather, and titanium. Although plastic and canvas are cheap, they will impress you with their durability and suitability outdoors.
Metal has an incredible visual appeal, but you might have to break the bank for a gold or silver watch. As regards the band, leather is light. Unfortunately, it is less durable.
Power Source
If you opt for a mechanical wrist watch, remember to wind it after some time. A watch with an automatic movement winds itself as the wrist moves, so no need to wind it yourself. On the other hand, prepare to do battery replacements if the timepiece you are eyeing has a battery-powered quartz movement. Solar-powered timepieces are also available and require no batteries or winding to power them.
Water Resistance
Most wrist watches now come with 30m water resistance, enough to withstand splashes or the rain. But some are made completely waterproof, especially those used by surfers, divers and swimmers. A watch with 50m-100 m will be suitable for swimming. But if you are a skin diver, up to 200 m resistance will be the best pick.
Affordable Men’s Wrist Watches: Conclusion
The right wrist watch for men will go a long way in enhancing the quality of your life. This is a tool that will help you establish discipline in your timekeeping while giving your looks a serious upgrade.
Do you need a rugged one to wear to a casual event or a sleek and classy one for a black-tie occasion? Wearing the right one will tell who the boss is without uttering a word. And you don’t have to give up your mortgage to wear a good watch on your wrist. You can trust any of the timepieces we have reviewed here for more than just timekeeping at prices that won’t require robbing a bank.
Are you a lover of watches? Do you think there is anything we have missed in this review? Let us know in the comments section. We would love to hear from you.