Perfect $500 collection? (Also any cheap beater recommendations that's not a G Shock?)

I'm starting to think I really don't need anything more fancy than this. (Even though I occasionally check out some prettier watches.)

1. Comfy big G Shock for sports/summer. $150

2. Small titanium Casio as my winter watch (because it gets really hot here and I don't like sweaty fabric straps). Also easily a dress watch on a darker strap. $180

3. Big blue Citizen I enjoy as my pilot watch once in a while. I feel it's my fanciest watch because I love the look. It's also really nice on an expanding metal bracelet. $150

4. Plastic $25 Casio AE1200 for when I'm working with glue, paint etc. I freakin hate it. 😂

I'd replace it with a G Shock but I don't love the harder straps on most of them. If anyone has other suggestions (without leather please) then I'm all ears. 😊

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How about this one https://www.casio.com/de/watches/casio/product.A1100B-1/

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I know it might not be super durable, shocky or whatelse but It does look quite good in my opinion. Matrix vibe Casio

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Head to Walmart and see if they have a white dial Timex Easy Reader on an expansion band. If you're lucky they'll have the 35mm one with the day and date. I think they all have the ten year battery.

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Suggesting this Merkur/ Seizenn Dirty Dozen based on price.

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I think I got it on sale from their website for like $60 shipped. Cool little handwound watch.

The acrylic crystal has also held up quite nicely.

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If you replace the AE1200, you need to get something with a GMT function....😊

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A quick thought: I've never tried one, but you can buy little lug converters for attaching cloth or leather straps to G-Shocks.

I would suggest a Timex Expedition Scout as one inexpensive piece that can take a knock or two while also bringing some minorly iconic looks. Mine gets a lot of housework action.

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There are many Bertucci models for around $150 or less, ranging from more traditional field designs to minimal/idealized (as here, I'd argue). Bombproof.

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As mentioned upthread, the Merkur family of Chinese brands offers great value along with more unusual design inspirations. (I would put Baltany in this category, too.)

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Let's not forget Vostoks, which will survive anything.

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For a somewhat dressier option around $180, I can't speak highly enough of the Cestrian Master Series watch. Sort of a dress-sport-explorer GADA piece. You can wear it with certain types of sneakers, rugged boots, or in a more formal setting.

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If you wanted to push your budget slightly past what you've listed, I can recommend the RZE Valour. A tough, light Ti case showcasing a uniquely angular design sensibility, and you can add a super-durable and comfortable FKM strap, branded as HexaFlex. Look, they like facets and such.

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watchfindsgermany

How about this one https://www.casio.com/de/watches/casio/product.A1100B-1/

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I know it might not be super durable, shocky or whatelse but It does look quite good in my opinion. Matrix vibe Casio

This is a very nice watch. I’m considering to get the silver version

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You can upgrade the case for AE1200 with a stainless steel version. It looks more premium and solid.

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kopernik

A quick thought: I've never tried one, but you can buy little lug converters for attaching cloth or leather straps to G-Shocks.

I would suggest a Timex Expedition Scout as one inexpensive piece that can take a knock or two while also bringing some minorly iconic looks. Mine gets a lot of housework action.

Image

There are many Bertucci models for around $150 or less, ranging from more traditional field designs to minimal/idealized (as here, I'd argue). Bombproof.

Image

As mentioned upthread, the Merkur family of Chinese brands offers great value along with more unusual design inspirations. (I would put Baltany in this category, too.)

Image

Let's not forget Vostoks, which will survive anything.

Image

For a somewhat dressier option around $180, I can't speak highly enough of the Cestrian Master Series watch. Sort of a dress-sport-explorer GADA piece. You can wear it with certain types of sneakers, rugged boots, or in a more formal setting.

Image

If you wanted to push your budget slightly past what you've listed, I can recommend the RZE Valour. A tough, light Ti case showcasing a uniquely angular design sensibility, and you can add a super-durable and comfortable FKM strap, branded as HexaFlex. Look, they like facets and such.

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Thanks for all the suggestions. Those are nice.

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PoorMansRolex

Head to Walmart and see if they have a white dial Timex Easy Reader on an expansion band. If you're lucky they'll have the 35mm one with the day and date. I think they all have the ten year battery.

Good idea thanks. I'm not in America but I'll look on Amazon.

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watchfindsgermany

How about this one https://www.casio.com/de/watches/casio/product.A1100B-1/

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I know it might not be super durable, shocky or whatelse but It does look quite good in my opinion. Matrix vibe Casio

Nice idea thanks.

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Skmei 1628. Softest strap on a G-Shock homage ever.

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casiodean
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Skmei 1628. Softest strap on a G-Shock homage ever.

Neat thanks