I feel like a lot of the love for budget brands like Seiko, Orient, Tissot amongst watch enthusiasts ties to tribute watches, aka watches that are presented as more affordable alternatives to iconic luxury watches, be it the seiko tank, the steel integrated bracelet watches, that have been coming out lately, lacos flieger watches etc.
While I have a lot of love for tribute time pieces, I would like to know, what are some watches from budget brands, that have brought something different and unique to the table, and have claimed an iconic status entirely on their own merit.
The first ones that come to my mind is the original G-Shock Square from the 90s, and the Seiko SKX,
I would love to hear your picks.
Casio mrw200 series, timex expedition scout, and orient kamasu for an auto pick
Casio F91-W
Casio World Time
Mondaine Classic
CasiOak
I was trashing Mondaine in another thread, but their classic, simple quartz is just about perfect for what it is.
Might add the Braun watch to the list, but I think they’ve gotten more expensive.
The watch community calls me poor in more way that I thought possible.
Me thinking if it’s worth buying a 700-800 watch. Watch community 'hey what a nice budget watch ’
Lol. I was going to say Vacheron Patrimony. Jajaja
Lol so true
Would a Tissot PRX 44 count?
Not “budget”. In order to qualify if should cost the same as 4 MacDonald’s meals (supersized) so think Casio f-91W
Vostok Amphibian / Scuba Dude.
Seiko Turtle Orient Bambino Vostok Amphibia Hamilton khaki Seiko skx80x
Tissot Visodate
Citizen Axiom
Seiko SARB035. A really nice looking watch for a very good price. It’s understated yet classy and works nicely on the bracelet for a sporty look or on a variety of straps if you want to make it look more formal/elegant
Stowa Marine. Auto or mechanical.
Both are Casios: Edifice “The Real CasiOak” EFR-S108D. Currently on my wrist, super slender, sapphire glass, has good finishing (brushed horizontal, polished vertical) and other design details that just show the designer wanted to make a cool watch.
Bracelet is workable, Pelagos aftermarket straps from aliexpress might fit with some coercing and are more comfortable. Recently Casio released an octagonal chronometer with the same (or same-ish) case shape but on a strap, I want to get my hands on it (the strap, not necessarily the watch).
Honorable mention: Casio “Budget Panda” EFR-526L-7AV - likely either or a horizontal version of this (they’re hard to find) is my next watch purchase. Just gotta hit that milestone first :D
I mean if you are considering Hamilton a budget brand then the Ventura watches have to be in this discussion.
Citizen eco-drive. Amazing watch for the money.
My pro-diver eco-drive is my most reliable watch.
Raymond Weil and edox
