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Automatic watches are the perfect choice for those who wear them because of the association mechanical watches have with luxury.. Automatic watches are less complicated because they don’t require batteries.
The movement of the wearer’s arm becomes the source of power; this is possible because of the oscillating system present inside the watch’s caliber. It is capable of automatically winding the spring due to motion. For this reason, automatic watches are known to be expensive.
The watch enthusiasts are always looking for automatic watches because of their outstanding features, look, and luxurious feel, but sometimes, automatic watches can be way too expensive. Well, you don’t need to worry, because we have picked out the top 15 best automatic watches for under $500. so you can have affordable watches in your collection.
Read this review to find the best-suited and affordable automatic watches according to your preference. Here are listed the 15 best watches Under $500 below.
15 Best Affordable Automatic Watches
1. Seiko Automatic Stainless-Steel Watch
Whenever you are looking for an automatic wristwatch, you will come across Seiko watches because they are extremely popular. The reasons for its popularity include high-quality case diameter, band material, a classy look, and other features. So, for this reason, the first affordable automatic watch that we have for you all is the Seiko Men’s automatic stainless-steel watch.
The black canvas bracelet adds to the exquisiteness of the stainless-steel case. It has Arabic numeral hour markers and comes with a tremendous 40-hour power reserve. If you have been searching for a classy automatic watch that functions well, looks elegant, and is also affordable, then you need to check this Seiko automatic watch out. It is highly recommended!
Specs and Major Features
- Product Dimensions: 5.91 x 5.91 x 5.91 inches.
- Item Weight: 2.12 ounces.
- Silver-tone hands: The silver-toned hands of this watch make it easy for you to tell the time, whether day or night.
- Day and date display: With this timepiece, you will be aware of the day and the date at all times.
- Nylon strap: The black nylon strap is super comfortable to wrap around the wrist. Not only will this timepiece look good, but it will be comfortable on the skin too.
Pros
- No batteries are needed.
- Ensures accuracy.
- Comfortable to wear.
- Affordable price.
- Water-resistant.
Cons
- It can be slightly bulky or heavy.
2. Invicta Pro Diver Stainless Steel Automatic Watch
Next up, we have the Invicta Men’s stainless-steel automatic watch. All the watch enthusiasts who are fond of the link bracelet will fall in love with this timepiece. Not only because of its fantastic look but because of its low price as well.
This low-cost automatic watch is quite renowned because it seems very luxurious and expensive when, in reality, you are spending around a hundred bucks on it.
Analog display along with Japanese automatic movement and luminous hands are the distinguishing features of this timepiece. The coolest feature is that it is water-resistant to 200m. Get ready to rock your outfits and make a statement!
Specs and Major Features
- Battery: 1 lithium metal battery is required.
- Large dial: The large dial allows you to easily read the time, even in low lights.
- Date and day display: This timepiece comes with a date and display at the 3 o’clock mark.
- Luminous hands: The luminous hands are Tritnite-coated.
- Link bracelet: The stainless-steel link bracelet consists of a fold-over clasp and also has a safety closure.
Pros
- Water-resistant up to 200m.
- Safety closure makes sure that you don’t lose the watch.
- Japanese automatic movement.
Cons
- It does require a battery for functioning.
3. Citizen Men’s Promaster Dive Watch
In a social gathering, all the eyes will be on your watch, and you will get a lot of compliments as well. Some people might even ask you questions about this watch because it indeed looks stunning! This Citizen Promaster automatic watch has all the features you may find in a super expensive and luxurious watch.
Its advanced eco-drive technology does not require any batteries and is fueled by light. The Japanese quartz movement and 48mm stainless steel case are two things that you will never be able to give up once you get your hands on it.
The distinguishing feature of this watch is the molded polyurethane strap; it is unique and stylish. The buckle closure keeps the watch secure on your wrist. We highly recommend this; automatic waterproof men’s watch for its unique style and distinguishing features!
Specs and Major Features
- Battery: No batteries are needed.
- Display Type: Analog.
- Case diameter: 43 mm
- Case thickness: 12 mm
- Eco-drive technology: This advanced technology is fueled by light and does not require batteries for functioning.
- Strap: The polyurethane strap is unique and comes with buckle closure. No more worries about the watch slipping or sliding from the wrist.
- Date window: The date window can be seen at 4 o’clock.
- Water-resistant: Since it is water-resistant, it can be worn while showering, swimming, and even snorkeling.
Pros
- Water-resistant.
- Buckle closure.
- No hassle of batteries.
- Ensures accuracy.
Cons
- It does not have a day window.
4. Seiko Automatic Watch with Beige Canvas Strap
Are you fond of not-so-common watches? If yes, you will become a fan of Seiko men’s automatic watch with a beige canvas strap. You will not see very many people wearing beige wristwatches, and this specific watch is super good-looking because of its unique color. The sword-shaped hands make it even more attractive.
Now coming to its specifications, this watch features a large round dial with an analog display and comes with a date and day window. It is affordable, water-resistant, and durable because of the Hardlex mineral crystal dial. We highly recommend it because it works amazingly and also looks great on the wrist!
Specs and Major Features
- Product Dimensions: 1.46 x 0.43 x 1.46 inches.
- Item Weight: 0.01 ounces.
- Hands: It consists of sword-shaped, luminous, and sweeping second hand.
- Strap: The strap is beige in color and is made with canvas. It is super comfortable, does not feel rough or irritating on the skin.
- Movement: This specific watch has a precise 21-jewel automatic movement, and it does not need batteries.
Pros
- Unique appearance.
- Durable because of top quality materials.
- Water resistant up to 30m.
- Powered by body movement.
- Lightweight.
Cons
- Some people may find it to be very small.
5. Orient Japanese Automatic / Hand-Winding Stainless Steel Watch
Then comes Orient men’s automatic watch on our list. It is a perfect blend of hacking, hand winding, and automatic movement. Since it comes with the date and day window, you can adjust the date and day by rotating the crown.
We recommend this watch greatly because its finishing looks amazing, the lume lasts for more than five hours, and the bezel looks excellent as well!
In this watch, you are getting manual and automatic movements, both!
All in all, it is a great purchase at an affordable price.
Specs and Major Features
- Case diameter: 41 mm
- Case thickness: 13 mm
- Bandwidth: 22 mm
- Movement: At an affordable price, you can get hacking, hand winding, and automatic movement.
- Band Material: The band or strap of this watch is made with stainless steel; hence it is quite durable.
- Date and day window: The date and day can be adjusted with the help of the crown.
Pros
- Power reserves for up to 40 hours.
- The hacking ensures preciseness and accuracy.
- Water resistance.
- Affordable price.
Cons
- The crown is very stiff.
6. Fossil Townsman Automatic Stainless-Steel Watch
If you are a watch enthusiast and don’t like to settle with one color of the watch or one watch style, you certainly need to check out the Fossil men’s townsman automatic watch.
The coolest part of this watch is the sub-dial. The dial consists of a textured inner ring, and it contains two sub-dials. The sub-dials are pretty attractive and add a touch of luxury to the timepieces. Even though this watch is water-resistant, it is not great for snorkeling and diving because it is designed to be suitable only for short swimming periods.
Specs and Major Features
- Case diameter: 44 mm
- Case thickness: 14 mm
- Bandwidth: 21.5 mm
- High-quality materials: The materials used in the manufacturing of this watch are of top quality. The leather used is also very comfortable and does not feel rough on the skin.
- Movement: This watch has automatic-self-wind movement, so you don’t have to worry about winding.
Pros
- Comfortable leather band.
- Buckle closure keeps the watch securely on the wrist.
- Sub-dials are very attractive.
- Fits nicely on all wrists.
Cons
- It is not suitable for snorkeling or diving because of low water resistance.
7. Invicta Pro Diver Japanese Automatic Watch
Here we have a fancy-looking watch that is super affordable as well. It consists of a black bezel but what makes it striking is the gold-ion plating. The shine and the smooth finishing put it under the spotlight.
The luminous hands allow you to read time in the daytime and at night time as well. The three-link bracelet is durable since it is made of stainless steel. Lastly, it is fantastic for marine activity. All the professional swimmers and divers can wear it without worrying about getting it ruined because it is water-resistant for up to 200m.
Gold finishing, luxurious feel, and water resistance make it one of a kind!
Specs and Major Features
- Product Dimensions: 0.59 x 0.59 x 0.59 inches.
- Item weight: 11.11 ounces.
- Ion plating: This watch has a sleek finish because it is gold-ion plated.
- Hands: The hands of this watch are luminous, so you can easily read the time during the day and at night.
- Water-resistance: The water-resistance of this watch is up to 200m, so it is perfect for professional marine activity.
Pros
- High water resistance.
- Superb finishing gives a high-end feel.
- Gold ion plating.
- Buckle closure keeps the watch secure on the hand.
Cons
- The crown has to be unscrewed to set the time; this might be a hassle for some people.
8. Orient ‘Mako II’ Japanese Automatic Stainless-Steel Watch
Here we have another affordable automatic watch for men by Orient. This watch is water-resistant as well; it is excellent for people who carry out professional marine activities.
The coolest feature of this watch is that it includes hacking, automatic, and hand-winding movements. Not a lot of affordable watches have this feature. Also, the power reserve is pretty decent, which is approximately 40 hours.
We highly recommend it for its unique style and fantastic functioning!
Specs and Major Features
- Product Dimensions: 4.72 x 4.72 x 4.72 inches.
- Item Weight: 12.64 ounces.
- Unidirectional bezel: It comes with a 120-click unidirectional bezel.
- Water resistance: The watch has a water resistance of up to 200m and is great for people who are involved in a professional marine activity.
Pros
- Durable bracelet.
- Easy to read.
- Classy yet fabulous in function.
Cons
- It is more on the bulky side.
9. Seiko Japanese Automatic Watch with Leather Calfskin Strap
At the ninth place on our list, we have another watch by Seiko. It is slightly pricey as compared to the other watches that we have added to our list.
The first thing to note about this cheap automatic watch is that it has an incredible power reserve of 50 hours. Not many automatic watches have such a decent power reserve. Sapphire crystal and unique innerspring are two of the features that make it worthwhile. The leather strap is comfortable and extravagant.
If you have wanted a sophisticated timepiece on your wrist and in your “watch collection,” then grab it before it’s gone!
Specs and Major Features
- Product Dimensions: 5 x 3.6 x 3.4 inches
- Item Weight: 2.4 ounces
- Sapphire crystal: Most watches have materials that get scratched, but this watch comes with a sapphire crystal that is scratch resistant.
- Leather strap: The strap is made with leather, and it is crocodile patterned.
- Winding capabilities: This Seiko watch is a mix of manual and automatic winding capabilities.
Pros
- Water-resistant.
- Automatic and manual winding capabilities.
- The hands are gold-toned.
- Tremendous power reserve of 50 hours.
Cons
- Slightly pricey as compared to other watches.
10. Vostok Komandirskie Automatic Watch
Then we have another one of the best cheap automatic watches; it is the Vostok automatic watch.
This watch also allows manual and automatic movements both. You will love it for its accuracy, a lot of the watches are not accurate, which is a major drawback. However, with this watch, you will not have to worry about accuracy. Above all, it fits all wrists and is pretty comfortable as well. We highly recommend it!
Specs and Major Features
- Band Width: 20 mm
- Case Diameter: 42 mm
- Case thickness: 6 mm
- Water Resistant: The water-resistance of this watch is 200 m.
- Movement: It allows both manual and automatic movement.
- Date window: The date window keeps you updated about the date.
Pros
- Durable since it is made with stainless steel.
- Luminous hands ensure easy reading.
- Fits all wrists.
Cons
- Feels heavy on the wrist.
11. Bulova Men’s Automatic Strap Watch
The Bulova Men’s automatic strap watch is a display of immense craftsmanship. At first sight, any person would think that this watch may cost thousands of dollars, but in reality, it is under $500. The 24-hour sub-dial is the distinct feature of this watch and is capable of attracting many.
This watch combines various advanced features, including double-press deployment closure, patterned dial, 21 jewel movement, and others. This watch looks fantastic and is capable of becoming the star of your outfits. If you love styling watches with your outfits, this is one of those pieces that you surely cannot miss out on.
Need advanced technological functions along with a super unique and sophisticated look of a watch? Well, get your hands on this one, and you will not regret it even once. The cool thing is that it is very budget-friendly.
Specs and Major Features
- Case diameter: 41 mm
- Case thickness: 12 mm
- Bandwidth: 22 mm
- Stainless-steel case: The case is made with stainless-steel; hence it is very durable.
- 24-hour sub-dial: The most attractive feature of this watch is the 24-hour sub-dial.
- Back case: It comes with an exhibition and screw-back case.
- Leather strap: The strap is patterned, which is why it is more appealing to the eyes. Along with that, it feels comfortable on the skin.
Pros
- Water resistance up to 30m.
- Domed crystal.
- Durable case.
- Luxurious or high-end appearance.
Cons
- The packaging of this watch is not very good quality.
12. Stührling Original Men’s Stainless Steel Automatic Watch
Are you fond of fancy things? If yes, then you have certainly stopped at the right spot because this Stuhrling stainless steel automatic watch is super fancy and will leave many stunned. The unique thing about this watch is that it allows people to see the time being marked by the timepiece. Not many affordable watches are capable of doing that.
If you want to see the time being marked and that too at an affordable price, you now know which watch you need to get your hands on. The leather used in the making of the strap is also genuine, and it is alligator embossed. Not only does the strap look classy, but it is comfortable enough that you can easily wear the watch for everyday wear.
Oh, and if you plan to wear it on a special occasion, then be ready to get a lot of compliments about your watch.
Specs and Major Features
- Product Dimensions: 1.65 x 11.81 x 3.62 inches.
- Item Weight: 8.82 ounces.
- Automatic winding: This Stuhrling watch is capable of winding itself through your natural movements.
- Warranty: The watch comes with an international warranty.
- Embossed strap: The strap is alligator embossed and is made with genuine leather.
Pros
- Budget-friendly.
- Gets delivered quickly.
- Fits most of the wrist sizes.
- Looks stunning.
- Warranty.
cons
- Slightly delicate as compared to other watches.
13. Seiko Automatic Stainless-Steel Watch with Blue Dial
Seiko comes back with another low-cost automatic watch for men. It allows automatic movement and has an analog display. All those guys who prefer steel bracelets will enjoy wearing this. Since it is created with stainless steel, it will last you for quite some time due to its increased durability.
Even though it is water-resistant, it is only suitable for swimming and snorkeling; it is not ideal for scuba diving. If you are a scuba diver or getting a scuba diver, this watch is not the right option.
Specs and Major Features
- Product Dimensions: 5 x 3.8 x 2.8 inches.
- Item Weight: 7.05 ounces.
- Stainless-steel bracelet: The bracelet is made with stainless steel and is very durable.
- Date and day window: The watch’s dial has a date and day window; it is capable of keeping you aware of the date and day.
- Water-resistance: Only suitable for swimming and snorkeling, nor suitable for scuba diving.
pros
- Deployment-clasp closure of the bracelet.
- Automatic movement of the analog display.
- Stainless-steel case.
- Water-resistant.
cons
- The packaging does not have a protective cover on the glass.
14. Seiko Diver’s Automatic Watch
As we mentioned earlier, Seiko makes superb automatic watches so we have another one of their automatic watches on our list for you. This Seiko Diver’s watch is powered by the hand’s movement and does not require any batteries.
As compared to the other Seiko watches that we have added to our list, this one is slightly pricey. However, it has very decent water resistance; it can be used by scuba divers as well because it is water-resistant up to 200m. The luminous hour markers and hands make it very easy for you to read the time. No one wants to miss out on such amazing features of an affordable automatic watch, right?
It is highly recommended!
Specs and Major Features
- Product Dimensions: 1.81 x 1.67 x 0.52 ounces.
- Item Weight: 7.05 ounces.
- Date and day display window: The Seiko men’s automatic watch has a date and display window at the 3 o’clock position.
- Steel bracelet: The steel bracelet comes with a five-link construction. This construction looks very stylish.
- Luminous hands and hour markers: These allow you to easily read the time whenever you like, whether it is day or whether it is night.
pros
- Water-resistant up to 200m.
- Stainless steel case and bracelet.
- Japanese automatic movement.
- No batteries are required.
cons
- There is no mechanical winding.
15. Orient Japanese Automatic Stainless Steel and Leather Dress Watch
The last low-cost automatic watch for men that we have is the Orient Bambino Japanese automatic stainless-steel watch.
It is water-resistant to some extent, but it is not suitable for snorkeling, scuba diving, or swimming. However, it can withstand slight immersion. The band or strap of the watch is made of leather and is pretty comfortable on the skin. The Japanese automatic movement gives you accuracy. We highly recommend it because of its fantastic features and great functioning.
Specs and Major Features
- Product Dimensions: 4.72 x 4.72 x 4.72 inches.
- Item Weight: 8 ounces.
- Movement: It comes with hacking, hand-winding, and automatic movements.
- Water resistance: It is water-resistant, only up to 50m.
pros
- Decent power reserve.
- Japanese automatic movement ensures accuracy.
- Great appearance.
cons
- Not suitable for swimming.
By going through the list of automatic watches under $500, you must now be inclining towards two or three of them, but before you find your “this is it!”, we want you to go through the buying considerations as well. The buying considerations will help you in making a rational decision.
Read Next: Why Automatic Watches are Best
Buying Considerations
- Price
The first buying consideration is the price, of course. Even though we restricted the watches in our list to be $500, you may have an even more limited budget. So, figure out what your budget is so that you can pick out the best budget automatic watch within your budget. Also, it is unnecessary that all the automatic watches have to be expensive; you can get your hands on a decent one on a limited budget.
- Luminous hands and hour marks
You must tell the time even in low light, so the hands and hour markers of the watch should be luminous. There are watches out there that don’t have luminous hands or hour markers, but then the users have a hard time telling the time. So, keep luminous hands in mind!
- Comfortable strap or band
Then comes the strap of the watches. The straps are made of different materials. Some are made with canvas, some are made with stainless steel, some are made with leather, and there are other materials as well. We all are looking for cool-looking straps but make sure that you get a watch that looks cool and has a comfortable strap. The watch’s strap should be comfortable on the skin; if it is not comfortable, you will not enjoy wearing it.
- Date and day window
If you are looking for multifunctionality in an automatic watch, then get your hands on one with the date and day window. With the date and day window, you will never forget what date or day it is. For all those people who are forgetful, this feature is especially for you!
- Movement
Even automatic watches have different movements. Most automatic watches use the movement of the hand as a power source. However, there are automatic watches that have hacking, manual and automatic movement all in one. With these watches, you get greater control, and you can make adjustments according to your desire. So, make sure that you have a look at the movement as well.
- Weight
You need to consider the weight of the watch as well. Many people don’t focus on the weight, but after buying the watch, they regret it because it feels too heavy on the wrist. So, make sure that the watch is not too heavy on your wrist.
- Appearance
Some people get too lost in the specifications that they forget about the watch’s style and appearance. Even though the watch’s appearance is a personal preference, make sure to match it with your outfits, and you will be all set to make the purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Question 1: Are all automatic watches durable?
Answer: The durability of the watch mainly depends upon the case and its glass. Most of the watches have stainless steel cases, and they are pretty durable, but the glasses are not scratch-resistant. So, the watches end up with scratches, and they don’t remain attractive anymore. So, to have durable watches, make sure to check the material of the case and the glass. Especially if you are looking for an automatic watch for everyday wear, make sure that it is made with high-quality products. The sturdier the watch, the longer it will last!
Question 2: Are all automatic watches water-resistant?
Answer: Most of the automatic watches are water-resistant, but some have low water resistance while others have high water resistance. The watches that have low water resistance are suitable only for splashes and little immersion. Some watches, on the other hand, are suitable for swimming and snorkeling. Then, some watches have high water resistance and are also great for people involved in professional marine activities. People who scuba dive or snorkel can get their hands-on watches that have high water resistance.
Conclusion
We aimed to help you make a rational decision when it comes to automatic watches; hence we created this article. The product descriptions, pros and cons, and buying considerations will hopefully help you out. We wish you the very best of luck, and we are sure that you will certainly rock the automatic watches.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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