2024’s Best Watches Under $500 | Our Hands-Down Favorite Picks

So you’ve got $500 to spend and you’re looking for a new watch. Congratulations! That amount of money will go far without sacrificing quality.

With prices soaring in all corners of the watch market, it’s easy to get desensitized to four digit price tags. Sometimes I need to remind myself that I once agonized over spending $75 on a Fossil watch at the mall, and that $500 is still a substantial amount of money to spend on a timepiece. Below you’ll find our top picks for best watches for under $500 from our favorite watch brands.

This list spans both mechanical watches and quartz watches while captures designs and styles in all genres of horology.

Seiko 5 SRPD Collection (5KX)

Case Size:	42.5mm x 46mm x 13.6mm
Crystal:	Hardlex crystal
Movement:	Seiko 4R36 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	41 hours
Accuracy:	+45 / -35 seconds per day
Hand Winding	Yes
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$275 – $375

The Seiko 5 Sports SRPD collection (also referred to as the 5KX) can be a bit of a polarizing. This has little to do with what the product line offers, and more to do with the watch it replaced: The iconic and discontinued SKX.

While not everyone agrees, I think the 5KX is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for an automatic tool watch with a day-date window. No, it will never be as cherished as the SKX. And yes, the push/pull crown (compared to the screw down crown on the SKX) won’t satisfy all enthusiasts. But when we take a step back, 100 meters of water resistance is plenty for most practical situations. With a competitive price and ever-growing offerings of new variations showcasing fun colors, I predict the 5KX will continue to win over both enthusiasts and casual wearers looking for a great all rounder.

Our full write-up on the Seiko 5 SRPD features additional information and more photos.

Seiko 5 GMT

Case Size:	42.5mm x 46mm x 13.6mm
Crystal:	Hardlex mineral crystal
Movement:	Seiko 4R34 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	41 hours
Accuracy:	+45 / -35 seconds perday
Hand Winding	Yes
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$380 – $475

Not too long ago there was a time where an affordable mechanical movement GMT was a distant fantasy. Then in 2022 Seiko did the unthinkable by unveiling the 4R34 automatic movement and releasing an affordable automatic GMT under $500 within the Seiko 5 Sports collection. With 100 meters of water resistance and available in a variety of fun colors, the Seiko 5 GMT is essentially a 5KX with a 24 hour bezel and a GMT hand. It’s a simple but winning combination.

Shortly after its release, Miyota also came out with an affordable GMT movement, which is a true/traveler GMT (the 4R34 is a caller GMT). These two new movements were the key many watch brands were waiting for to unlock the affordable automatic GMT reality. As a result, the Seiko 5 GMT has some serious competition. But, as the first, it has a special place in my heart and in the watch world.

We also have a hands-on review of the Seiko 5 GMT if you’d like more info.

Seiko Prospex SNE Solar Dive Watches

Case Size:	38.5mm x 46.5mm x 10.6mm
Crystal:	Sapphire crystal
Movement:	Seiko V147 (Solar Quartz Movement)
Power Reserve:	10 Months
Accuracy:	-/+ 15 seconds per month
Hand Winding	N/A
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$475

Sometimes it seems that every tool watch is referred to as a great GADA (go anywhere, do anything) choice. The Seiko Prospex SNE Solar Dive Watch series is actually deserving of the rugged reliability inherent with the GADA label.

For starters, it’s solar powered. The V147 solar quartz movement inside has an impressive power reserve of 10 months and is accurate to a quarter of a minute over an entire month. This impressive technology is housed inside of a 200 meter water resistant stainless steel case that is only 10.6 mm thick. The beefy, high contrast hand set pairs nicely against the dial making it a watch that can be dressed up or down depending on the scenario. If you want a true GADA watch that wears like a dress watch but takes a beating like a tool watch, a Prospex SNE solar diver is for you.

Citizen Tsuyosa Collection

Case Size:	40mm x 45mm* x 11.7mm
Crystal:	Sapphire crystal
Movement:	8210 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	40 hours
Accuracy:	+/- 20 seconds per day
Hand Winding	Yes
Hacking	No
Price:	$450

Integrated stainless steel bracelets are very popular right now. Made popular by iconic Gerald Genta designs of the 1970’s, this style of watch features lugless cases which blend seamlessly with a bracelet. Historically, these elegant and sleek designs have only been available at substantial MSRPs, but there has been a push in recent years to offer this style at lower 3 and 4 digit prices.

In 2023 Japanese watch brand Citizen joined the trend of affordable integrated bracelets with the Tsuyosa Collection. Priced competitively at $450 and touting bold dials with serious pop, these automatic watches are ideal everyday watches that offer pure affordable fun. The level of finishing and lack of a hacking second hand may not catch everyone’s attention when compared to alternatives such as Christopher Ward’s The Twelve, but I think the Tsuyosa’s splash of color makes up for these shortcomings and deems it a welcome and fitting addition to the expanding integrated bracelet trend.

*the length of the case is 49.5mm with the center links from the integrated bracelet.

Citizen Promaster Dive Eco-Drive (ref. BN0150-28E / BN0151-09L)

Case Size:	44mm x 44mm x 12mm
Crystal:	Mineral crystal
Movement:	Citizen Eco-Drive E168 (Solar quartz movement)
Power Reserve:	6 months
Accuracy:	+/- 15 seconds per month
Hand Winding	N/A
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$200 – $300

The Citizen Promaster Dive Eco-Drive continues the theme of true GADA timepieces. I mean, how much more versatile can you get than an ISO compliant diver powered by light? Unlike other solar watches, the Citizen Promaster Dive Eco-Drive will NEVER need a new battery, allowing for a maintenance free wearing experience without compromising water resistance during battery changes. To complement its solid specs, the Promaster’s design offers a refreshing take on the black dial diver, with a 4:00 crown, a unique serrated bezel edge and generously sized hands and indices. There’s also a blue dial version that has a bit more personality if that’s more appealing to you.

As an added bonus, the stock Polyurethane strap on the Promaster is one of the most comfortable stock straps I’ve experienced and the 60 click bezel (compared to the more common 120 click) is extremely satisfying.

Feel free to read more on our full review of the Citizen Promaster Diver.

Q Timex GMT

Case Size:	38mm x 44.25mm x 12.5mm
Crystal:	Acrylic crystal
Movement:	Ronda 505.24
Battery Life:	45 months
Accuracy:	+20/-10 seconds per month
Hand Winding	No
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$219 – $229

I’ve come full circle with Timex over the years. It’s a brand I knew as a kid and wore with pride, but then wanted to branch out from as I broadened my watch horizons. Overtime I’ve come to learn that Timex is not a watch brand to “move on” from, but rather to embrace.

The Q Timex GMT demonstrates why Timex is the perfect brand for kids with $20 in birthday cash, or seasoned collectors looking to fill a slot in their watchbox. Using its iconic and recently revived Q framework, the GMT expands the Q portfolio. With affordable automatic GMTs suddenly a reality thanks to new movements by Seiko and Miyota, time will tell if this quartz GMT will be overshadowed by its competition. But if you’re looking for a quartz GMT with unmatched provenance, don’t overlook the Q Timex GMT.

Seiko Turtle SRPE93

Case Size:	45mm x 48mm x 13.4mm
Crystal:	Hardlex mineral crystal
Movement:	Seiko 4R36 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	40 hours
Accuracy:	+45 / -35 seconds per day
Hand Winding	Yes
Hacking	Yes
Price Rage:	$350 – $495

When it comes to stretching your dollar, it’s hard to beat the versatility of a dive watch. You’ll find a lot of great tool watches on this list, but the one to rule them all is probably the Seiko Turtle SRPE93, a variant of the iconic SRP777. This quintessential Japanese dive watch icon is powered by the time tested 4R36 automatic movement and, features an ergonomic cushion case with a short lug to lug that is both reliable and comfortable.

With a case diameter of 45mm, this isn’t the smallest Turtle out there. However, I find it more comfortable than some 40mm dive watches I’ve encountered thanks to its unique stainless steel case shape.

You can also read our full review on the Seiko Turtle.

Timex Marlin Collection

Case Size:	Ranging from 34mm to 40mm
Crystal:	Acrylic crystal
Movement:	Automatic movements
Power Reserve:	34 – 42 hours
Hand Winding	Yes
Hacking	No
Price:	$209 – $349

In 2017, before reissued watches were the latest craze, Timex brought back the Marlin, their popular 1960s dress watch. Five years later, the Marlin has remained a staple in Timex’s modern collection.

Featuring nylon and leather strap options, the Timex Marlin is available in case sizes from 34mm all the way up to 40mm. Plus with a variety of dial layouts from minimalist to California, there is a Marlin for any wrist. The cushion-cased sub dial series is my personal favorite, but with so much variety it’s worth checking out the entire collection. You won’t find GADA levels of water resistance on these dress watches with acrylic crystals, but if you’re looking for a fun reissue from a trusted brand, then a Timex Marlin might be just the watch for you.

Timex Weekender Collection

Case Size:	ranging from 31mm to 43mm
Crystal:	Mineral crystal
Movement:	Quartz movement
Battery Life	2 – 5 years
Hand Winding	No
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$30 – $65

The Timex Weekender is one of the few watches I can easily identify across a room with 100% accuracy. This classic and affordable watch is distinguishable by its highly legible dial with giant numerals on the outer track and a smaller 24 hour inner track. Available in a variety of sizes ranging 31 to 43mm and with a small crown tucked into the case, the Weekender will feel at home on any wrist.

Unfortunately, the Weekender is far from silent and is also distinguishable by an ever-present ticking noise of the quartz movement. Is this trade off worth the stylish affordable versatility the Weekender offers? I think so, but you might want to set aside some of the money you saved for earplugs just in case.

If you’re curious to learn more and see additional photos, be sure to check out our full write-up on the Timex Weekender.

Timex Expedition Collection

Case Size:	Ranging from 37mm to 43mm
Crystal:	Mineral crystal
Movement:	Quartz Movement
Power Reserve:	2 – 5 years
Hand Winding	No
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$50 – $100

Love the legibility and affordability of the Timex Weekender but want something a bit more rugged? Look no further than the Timex Expedition. It features the same Indiglo dial and full numeral layout of the Weekender, but received a facelift to achieve the classic field watch look. With a slightly larger case and increased water resistance (30 meters on the Weekender vs 50 meters on the Expedition) it is ready for your next adventure.

While the Timex Expedition makes an excellent choice for anyone in the market for an affordable quartz field watch, its modest 50 meters of water resistance might deter some wearers who are looking to take their watches on more aquatic adventures.

Orient Mako

Case Size:	41.5mm x 47mm x 13mm
Crystal:	Mineral crystal
Movement:	Orient F6922 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	40 hours
Accuracy:	+25/-15 seconds per day
Hand Winding	Yes
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$140 – $220

The Orient Mako is one of those watches that always comes up in conversation when discussing affordable watches. It has a long standing competition with the SKX as the best entry level diver. But with the discontinuation of the SKX and subsequent price gouging… I think it’s time to finally crown the Mako as the rightful king of affordable divers.

When I consider what I expect for a sub $500 tool watch, I look for a spec monster with style and maybe a bit of provenance. The attractive Mako, building on Orient’s rich history and offering 200 meters of water resistance, delivers on all of these for well under $500.

Orient Kamasu

Case Size:	41.8mm x 46.8mm x 12.8mm
Crystal:	Sapphire crystal
Movement:	Orient F6922 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	40 hours
Accuracy:	+25/-15 seconds per day
Hand Winding	Yes
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$200 – $335

If you want a Orient tool watch with an upgraded crystal, Orient has your back with the sapphire topped Kamasu. As a 40+ mm diver, the differences between the Mako and the Kamusu are subtle. But looking beyond the crystal upgrade, the Kamasu’s more pronounced crown guards and arrow hands give some variety of choice for anyone looking for a time-tested diver’s watch from one of the titans of affordable watchmaking.

If you’d like to learn more, be sure to read our hands-on write-up of the Orient Kamasu.

Orient Bambino Collection

Case Size:	Ranging from 38mm to 42.5mm
Crystal:	Mineral crystal
Movement:	Orient F6724 (Automatic movement)
Power Reserve:	40 hours
Accuracy:	+25/-15 seconds per day
Hand Winding	Yes
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$140 – $330

Awkward watch spotting is a rite of passage for watch enthusiasts. When we see someone wearing a cool watch, it’s easy to assume they too are an enthusiastic watch nerd. From my experience, the only thing these unsuspecting strangers are enthusiastic about is ending a conversation with me.

My dog’s vet wears an Orient Bambino (the 2nd Gen with the white dial and blue hands). I became overly excited when I saw this, thinking he would want to chat about how the Bambino offers unrivaled value for an automatic dress watch. After uneasily telling me the Bambino was a gift from his girlfriend, he continued the rest of our appointment in unpleasant silence. Shout out to my (former) vet’s girlfriend on the selection!

For a full breakdown and explanation of all the model differences, be sure to check out our full piece on the Orient Bambino.

Bulova Computron

Case Size:	40mm x 31mm x 13.8mm
Crystal:	Mineral crystal
Movement:	Quartz with LED display
Battery Life:	2 years
Hand Winding	N/A
Hacking	N/A
Price:	$220 – $400

Bulova is a brand I keep coming back to. From dive watches like the Oceanographer and field watches like the Hack, there seems to be a Bulova for every occasion. In the Computoron’s case, the occasion is driving. Which makes sense, considering its quirky side-profile LED display that can easily be viewed without turning your wrist while flying down the highway.

I do more driving than diving (zero), and I predict I can rationalize this trapezoidal watch into my watchbox. Afternall, what’s not to like about a watch that looks futuristic yet feels nostalgic?

If you’re curious for more insights, head on over to our full write-up of the Bulova Computron.

Dan Henry 1970

Case Size:	44m x 50.5mm x 14.8mm
Crystal:	Sapphire crystal
Movement:	NH35 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	40 hours
Accuracy:	+40/-20 seconds per day
Hand Winding	Yes
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$310

Consistently churning out knock-out releases for years on end, Dan Henry has earned its reputation as one of the best value microbrands out there. Inspired by the personal collection of well-known collector Dan Henry, the brand takes the unique homage approach of releasing watches inspired by eras. Perhaps the most popular of Dan Henry’s many offerings of tool, dress and sport watches is the Dan Henry 1970.

The Dan Henry 1970 celebrates the history of the inner bezel dive watch. Like the watches it pays tribute to, 1970 prioritizes functionality and legibility. At 44mm, nearly 15mm thick and with a generous lug to lug, the larger version won’t be suited for all wrists, but it also comes in a 40mm stainless steel case. If you’re looking for a nostalgic and chunky diver on a budget, the Dan Henry 1970 is a fantastic choice.

Feel free to scroll through our entire hands-on write-up of the Dan Henry 1970 if you’d like to learn more.

Dan Henry 1972 Maverick Chronograph

Case Size:	41m x 45.7mm x 12.7mm
Crystal:	Sapphire crystal
Movement:	Miyota 0S80 (Quartz Chronograph Movement)
Battery Life:	5 years
Accuracy:	+/- 20 seconds per month
Hand Winding	No
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$350

Just as the Dan Henry 1970’s is an amalgamation of classic dive watches, the Dan Henry 1972 Maverick Chronograph homages the iconic chronographs of the past. At first glance the 1972 chrono could be mistaken for its obvious source of inspiration, the PVD coated Orfina Porsche Design Chronograph. Despite its modest price, the 1972 doesn’t cut corners and features a sapphire crystal, an alarm complication, and useful chronograph functionality.

While the Porsche Design is a good looking watch to emulate, this Dan Henry watch might not be a top choice for someone looking for an original design. If you’re in the market for a quartz chronograph but prefer a unique design, check out Brew Watches (also on this list).

There are more photos and insights at our comprehensive piece on the Dan Henry 1972.

Casio G-Shock DW9052-1V

Case Size:	48.5mm x 43mm x 14.7mm
Crystal:	Mineral crystal
Movement:	Casio 3232 (Quartz Digital Module)
Battery Life:	2 years
Accuracy:	+/- 15 seconds per month
Hand Winding	N/A
Hacking	N/A
Price:	$50 – $75

No watch collection is complete without a Casio G-Shock. These near-indestructible timepieces have been winning over the hearts and wrists since they were first introduced in 1983. Because all G-Shocks are overengineered and inherently tough, the best G-Shock is subjective to each wearer’s personal preference, but I don’t think I’m alone in thinking the DW9052-1V is a top contender for the ideal G-Shock.

The DW9052-1V looks like it emerged from a 1980’s time capsule, yet still feels at home today. Its resin case includes thoughtfully incorporated buttons to easily operate its many features including an alarm, a stopwatch and a timer. With a short lug to lug, the DW9052-1V wears smaller than the 48.5 mm diameter suggests and is an ideal choice for anyone with an active lifestyle that is looking for a budget friendly daily wearer.

If you’d like, please feel free to read all our thoughts on the G-Shock DW9052-1V.

Casio G-Shock Casioak

Case Size:	48.5mm x 45mm x 11.8mm
Crystal:	Mineral crystal
Movement:	Ana-Digi Quartz Module
Battery Life:	3 years
Accuracy:	+/- 15 seconds per month
Hand Winding	N/A
Hacking	N/A
Price:	$100

Love the reliability of a DW9052-1V but want something more aesthetically adventurous? Look no further than the GA2100-1A1, more commonly known as the Casioak. The nickname comes from its case shape and (loose) resemblance to the AP Royal Oak.

This ana-digi watch features the hardy durability G-Shock is known for including shock resistance and 200 meters of water resistance. Despite its size (wearing slightly larger than the DW9052-1V) the Casioak weighs only 51 grams! While it might not look at home in an office environment, the Casioak is the perfect watch for anyone looking to scratch that rugged resin itch with a bit of additional flair.

The full history and a hands-on review are available in our Casioak piece.

Tissot PRX Quartz (35mm & 40mm)

Case Size:	Available in 35mm and 40mm
Crystal:	Sapphire crystal
Movement:	ETA F06.115
Battery Life:	5 years
Accuracy:	+0.5/-0.3 seconds per day
Hand Winding	No
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$305 – $495

Like the Citizen Tsuyosa, the Tissot PRX is a release from recent years that combines the elegance of integrated bracelets with attainable price points. When I first tried on a PRX I expected it to wear big. After all, it looks like a sports watch and integrated bracelets aren’t known for a small wrist presence. But thanks to an impressively thin case at only 10.5mm, the PRX doesn’t sacrifice comfort for style. The quartz variant comes in two sizes (35mm and 40mm) with several dial options, including the fan-favorite mint.

Automatic versions of the PRX are available for $725. But unless you’ve got your heart set on a Swiss-Made automatic movement, I recommend checking out the Citizen Tsuyosa (also on this list) for an automatic integrated bracelet watch that can be purchased for significantly less.

For more information please feel free to explore our comprehensive write-up on the Tissot PRX Quartz.

Swatch Sistem51 Collection

Case Size:	42mm x 50.6mm x 13.8mm
Movement:	Swatch 51 piece automatic movement
Power Reserve:	90 hours
Accuracy:	+7/-7 seconds per day
Hand Winding	Yes
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$165 – $270

It’s been 10 years since Swatch rocked the industry with the Sistem51. Looking at the specs alone, you might wonder why this watch hasn’t been on every wrist the world over for the past decade.

Capitalizing on a simplified design, the movement powering this Swiss automatic watch is made from only 51 components and features a 90 hour power reserve. How does Swatch keep the cost so low? The Sistem51 is completely manufactured on an automated production line. If you want a hand finished watch with the character of the individual watchmaker that created it, the Sistem51 is not for you. But, if you’re looking for an automatic timepiece from an iconic Swiss brand at an unbeatable price that houses some impressive technology, you’ve found it.

We also have a full hands-on piece with the Swatch Sistem51 if you’re interested.

Nodus Sector Sport

Case Size:	38mm x 37mm x 12.5mm
Crystal:	Sapphire crystal
Movement:	NH38 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	40 hours
Accuracy:	+40/-20 seconds per day
Hand Winding	Yes
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$475

It’s not often I’m surprised by how inexpensive a watch is. When I first saw the Glacial dial Sector Sport from Nodus (a flagship American microbrand), I immediately wrote it off as a watch probably out of my price range. Its refined mid-century design is reminiscent of watches that don’t often come with three digit price tags.

But, thanks to its use of an affordable NH38 movement, this elegant sport watch can be purchased for the reasonable price of $475. With a layered dial, raised indices and a tastefully printed logo, the Sector Sport has a welcome amount of depth while still maintaining a reserved aesthetic that will allow it to look at home in any setting. And, with 100 meters of water resistance of wearable dimensions, it is up for anything!

Dryden Watch Co. Heartlander

Case Size:	38mm x 46mm x 11.2mm
Crystal:	Sapphire crystal
Movement:	Miyota 9015 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	42 hours
Accuracy:	+30/-10 seconds per day
Hand Winding	Yes
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$500

The Dryden Heartlander has a habit of making its way onto “best of” lists all over the internet, a well deserved accomplishment. With a medium-sized 38mm case, a sufficient 100 meters of water resistance and a popular Miyota 9015 movement, the Heartland checks all the boxes of a classic horological wishlist.

This versatile field watch is available in two formats: the Classic Sport with a 3,6, 9 no date dial and a brushed bezel and the more refined Traditional Field, featuring full numerals, a date window and a polished bezel. Sure, the Heartlander might not have the name-recognition of something like the Hamilton Khaki, but it’s a great alternative for anyone looking for a value-driven micobrand.

In fact, you can scroll through the photos and additional insights in our comprehensive hands-on piece with the Dryden Watch Co. Heartlander.

Brew Watches Metric (Meca-Quartz)

Case Size:	36mm x 41.5mm x 10.75mm
Crystal:	Sapphire crystal
Movement:	VK68 (Meca-Quartz Chronograph Movement)
Battery Life:	3 years
Accuracy:	+/- 20 seconds per month
Hand Winding	N/A
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$450

Brew represents the best aspects of the micobrand industry: a quality watch with distinct brand DNA created by someone who genuinely loves watches.

For years, enthusiasts have adored the Metric, which just like all Brew watches, is inspired by industrial espresso machines. The Retro dial Metric is a meca-quartz chronograph, allowing for the feel of a mechanical chronograph with the ease and accuracy of a quartz movement. Featuring bright subdials and a colorful handset, metric is guaranteed to add some fun to your wrist and watchbox. Check out the gold version for a flashier experience.

Vaer C5 Field Black

Case Size:	40mm x 48mm x 9.4mm
Crystal:	Sapphire crystal
Movement:	Ronda 715 (Quartz Movement) or Epson VS-42 (Solar Quartz Movement)
Power Reserve:	40 month battery life on quartz or 6 months power reserve on solar
Accuracy:	+20/-10 seconds per month
Hand Winding	No
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$239 – $259

I wasn’t on a mission to fall for the Vaer C5 Field Black, but Vaer’s marketing team has been plastering my phone screen with ads and I finally got curious enough to click on one. What I found was a fairly priced, US made field watch that manages to share A LOT of information (bold full numerals, a subtle 24 hour inner track and even an unobtrusive yet sufficiently visible minute track in yellow) without cluttering the dial.

For a 100 meter timepiece assembled in the USA, the C5 is a solid wallet-friendly choice at $239 for the quartz version and $259 for the solar. If an automatic movement is worth an additional $300 to you, check out the A5, powered by a Miyota 9015 and retaining for $549.

Baltic HMS

Case Size:	36mm x 46mm x 13.3mm
Crystal:	Hesalite crystal
Movement:	Miyota 8315 (Automatic Movement)
Power Reserve:	60 hours
Accuracy:	+40/-20 seconds per day
Hand Winding	Yes
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$375 – $400

Trends come and go in the watch industry. At the moment, vintage inspired timepieces are all the rage. And so, in a market saturated with mid-size cases and simplistic designs, it takes a lot to rise above the competition. But that is exactly what Baltic has done with the HMS. And, they impressively accomplished this at a price point even a cheapskate like me can get behind.

The HMS is a thoughtful 3-handed dress watch. For a simple watch, it has no shortage of character. Perhaps its most noticeable feature is the step-case, made of a single piece of stainless steel. The sector dial of the HMS comes in a variety of options, including full numeral of a simplified 3,6,9, 12 layout.

Lorier Neptune

Case Size:	39mm x 46mm x 10.3mm
Crystal:	Hesalite crystal
Movement:	Miyota 90S5
Power Reserve:	42 hours
Accuracy:	+30/-10 seconds per day
Hand Winding	Yes
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$499

It’s hard not to get excited about Lorier, a microbrand that consistently creates thoughtfully designed vintage inspired timepieces on their own terms. You won’t find any cookie cutter offerings from them, as shown by the Neptune, their flagship diver.

This 200 meter dive watch is reminiscent of the classic mid century predecessors that inspired its simplistic design. The Neptune features a simple black dial, gilt features, and hands just the right length to reach the pop of thick lume plots. I love that Lorier unapologetically uses Hesalite crystals on all their watches, including the Neptune. Yes, it’s more prone to scratches, but those can be buffed out, and is a worthwhile trade for the classic look this material facilitates.

Islander Northport

Case Size:	40.5mm x 47mm x 12.5mm
Crystal:	Sapphire crystal
Movement:	Miyota 9015
Power Reserve:	42 hours
Accuracy:	+30/-10 seconds per day
Hand Winding	Yes
Hacking	Yes
Price:	$429

Islander watches first gained traction as homages to the SKX, but in recent years have been expanding their catalog to include unique designs. I’ve been following the brand for years and have owned a handful of various models with strong value for the dollar being the theme that tied them all together. Recently, one particular Islander seems to have resonated with the wider enthusiast community: The Northport.

Looking at its specs (a midsized 200 meter diver powered by a Miyota 9015) and fun design, it’s easy to see why. With summer-vibe dial options including the perpetually out-of-stock seafoam green ripple dial, the Northport is a solid choice for anyone that needs a rugged summer watch that won’t fly under the radar.