Best Men’s Watches Under $500 (#1-5)
The Luminox 3000 Series watch was orginally designed for US Navy-Seals. The carbon-reinforced case and hardened mineral cover means it’s water resistance up to 200m, so it’s it suitable for swimming and outdoor activities. It has a rubber strap with a simple buckle fastening as well as illuminating mechanism for night time visibility. Its generous face size (4cm diameter) and utilitarian design makes this a watch for a men of any age. The Luminox 3000 Series watch comes in several colours (black shown above).
We applaud Swiss watchmaker Rotary for creating this Jura men’s watch at such an affordable price because it’s hard almost impossible to find quality skeleton watches for under $500. (‘Skeleton watch’ just means a mechanical watch where all the moving parts are visible.) Lower-priced skeleton watches are usually just mechanical traps which make it look like you can see the watch movement, but with the Jura, it’s the real deal. Skeleton watches aren’t exactly known for their legibility, and whilst this timepiece is typical of the category, it is a steal if you’re looking for an entry-level skeleton watch.
Since the 1980s, Mondaine has been the go-to brand for affordable Swiss design. The Mondaine Railway Giant Watch for men exemplifies the brand’s ethos: contemporary twist on a minimalist timepiece. There’s nothing superfluous about this watch – no date, just the time and the red second hand everyone is familiar with. It can be easily read and is even water resistance to 30 meters. The case is made from mineral crystal and slightly curved on the edges to complete what is we think is a classic watch for a very reasonable price point.
Citizen Eco-Drive Metal Watch for Men
The Citizen Eco-Drive Metal men’s watch retails for just under $500
Citizen has always been at the forefront of affordable men’s watches and their Eco-Drive Metal range is no exception. The range is wholly light-powered meaning you won’t ever need a battery change. The key to the design is a ring-shaped solar cell which is embedded in the watch which produces up to 6 months of battery reserve. The watch features a mineral glass cover with stainless steel case, practical date calendar and to top it off, a low battery indicator so you known when it needs charging.
Uniform Wares 152 Series Steel Wristwatch
Uniform Wares creates watches for men who want a minimalistic and utilitarian and timepiece. Their 153 Series Steel Wristwatch is a fine example of thier modern aesthetics in action and yet is also managed to look masculine. We like how the blue hands contrast the stainless steel case and the mesh braclet to add some colour to the dial. The watch houses a Swiss-made movement for accuracy and performance. This is a great timepiece whihc will appeal to most men.
Best Men’s Watches Under $500 (#6-8)
Seagull 1963 Watch for mens form 21 Zuan
We may not associate ‘Made in China’ watches with ‘quality watches’, but this chronograph from 21 Zuan (Chinese for “21 Jewels”) will change your mind. Originating from the Tianjin Watch Factory, the Seagull 1963 men’s watch was initially assigned to the the Air Force of the People’s Liberation Army back in the 1960s. The modern Seagull 1963 is a remake of the official watch and is a unique and classical timepiece. It has a hand-winding chronograph movement with 21 jewels and a power reserve of over 40 hours. This watch is limited edition and embodies an interesting period in China’s timekeeping history.
Tissot Tradition Men’s Silver Quartz Classic Watch
Since its introduction, the Traditional range from Swiss watchmaker Tissot has been a hit with men and women alike. In particular, the Tradition Silver Quartz watch shown above makes it onto our list of best men’s watches for under $500 because it combines Swiss timekeeping accuracy with a sophisticated design. The perceptual calendar functionality is a classic touch whilst its G15.561 movement offers excellent value for just $450. The scrach resisstant sapphire crystal makes this a watch that promises endless hours of use.
Junkers Bauhaus Quartz For Men
German brand Junkers (pronounced Yung-kers) is well known in Europe for creating elegant watches that are perfect of casual or dress occasions. This Bauhaus-style quartz chronograph is exactly that. In a 40mm stainless steel case, it features a triple dial (one for seconds, a 30-minute timer and a 12-hour totalizer), luminous dots and a date window at 4:00. It’s also handsome on the inside too, with its Swiss Made Ronda 5030-D quartz chronograph movement. This is a watch for those who prefer an understated style.