Some of the best watches are the bargains you find unexpectedly. If there's one thing watch enthusiasts love, it's the excitement when you stumble across a steal of a watch. So, for this blog, I'll be looking at some of our best watches under $500.
Firstly, I'll be looking at design. There's no point in having a quality-for-price watch if it simply doesn't look good. While there were lots of options at this price point, I feel that these three watches hit the mark when it comes to appearance.
Of course, I've had to take the quality of materials and durability into consideration. While these watches do retail under $500, they are made by trustworthy watchmakers and have great construction.
The character of the watch is also a big factor as I review the best affordable timepieces at Watch Depot. What makes these watches unique and likeable? Let's find out.
Overview:
- Citizen "C7" NH8390-20L Automatic
- G-Shock GAB21001A1 Carbon Core Bluetooth Solar 'CasiOak'
- Seiko 5 SRPD61K Automatic Stainless Steel Mens Watch
- Further Recommendations
Citizen "C7" NH8390-20L Automatic
The original Citizen Crystal Seven watches were made in 1965, and were celebrated for their slim frame and glossy crystal glass. If Citizen had missed the mark in recreating the charm of that release, they might have been forgiven.
Thankfully, the new Citizen C7 is gorgeous. This really is one of the best-looking dress watches you can buy under the $500 price range. It's a precise, to-the-point design, with a deep blue sunray dial that lightens and shifts its colour effortlessly under light.
Quartered dial lines that cross through the watch face conjure the charm of a vintage timepiece and blend easily with the silver-bordered date and day windows. An appealing silver-tone case and black leather strap finish the look nicely.
Because this is an automatic watch, the pointed hands have a smooth movement around the dial. We also get a good look at said movement from the back, with an exhibition case back showing off the 8200 Calibre. Overall, the build quality on this watch is really solid, and it feels great on the wrist.
This watch is definitely a top pick for a dress watch, but it's simple enough to take into the office or to a bar with friends. While it will take some time to break in that leather strap, this watch soon becomes a favourite in any collection.
Citizen NH8390-20L Automatic Black Leather Mens Watch
$269.00
$475.00
The NH8390-20L pays homage to Citizen's Crystal Seven line in 1965. This new C7 reinvents what was already revolutionary, presenting an all new modern allure. Look smart in jet black and catch glances with a deep blue sunburst dial. Encased… read more
G-Shock GAB21001A1 Carbon Core Bluetooth Solar 'CasiOak'
It's hard to go past this watch in terms of durability and function. The G-Shock 'CasiOak' line may be recent, but the mixture of incredible toughness and the smaller, dressier frame (by G-Shock's standards) has rocketed the 2100 Series to stardom.
Now, this Bluetooth Solar 'CasiOak' is the most updated, upgraded version of the popular model: fitted with smartphone connectivity, Tough Solar charging, and a lightweight carbon core guard. This watch is as functional as they come and feels virtually indestructible. 
The Bluetooth capabilities allow you to adjust your time settings from your smartphone, and even improves the timekeeping accuracy of the watch.
It's hard to believe this watch is under $500 given its quality, and even if you aren't a fan of the midnight black look, there's a good selection of these models to choose from. You'll find yourself taking this G-Shock watch just about anywhere once it's yours.
Seiko 5 SRPD61K Automatic Stainless Steel Mens Watch
What list of best watches under $500 would complete without a Seiko 5 watch, one of the most popular lines in the world. I've chosen the green-on-green dial and bezel combo, as I think everyone needs to own a green watch nowadays.
This Seiko watch walks the perfect line between sporty and dressy. Its stainless steel case and bracelet are very classy, but the green dial is punchy and energetic. This makes for a versatile watch that you'll feel comfortable wearing just about anywhere.
If you're new to watches, or just after a new daily wearer, you should choose a Seiko 5. You won't find many automatic watches as durable or accurate for this price point, and this is a tried and true design.
In terms of character, this watch has plenty. Green dial aside, the Seiko 5 look is crisp and easy to look at. Small touches, like the combined date and day window, shaped indices, and crown tucked in at the 4 o'clock position offer a refreshing appearance.
Further Recommendations
The three timepieces I have suggested are exceptional all-rounders, impressive in my criteria of design, durability, and character. These are by no means the only great watches you can get under $500, but they are some of my favourites.
For more excellent watches at this price point, I can recommend taking a look through each of the brands I have suggested in this blog. Seiko, Citizen, and G-Shock (Casio included) are fantastic Japanese watchmakers and are known for their accessible yet high-quality watches.
You can't go too wrong with these brands, just make sure you know what you want from a watch, and what the timepiece you're looking at offers. Best of luck!
