Budget Watches
So I want to hear from my fellow watch nerds. In your opinion, what are the best options for an automatic diver under $300? It can be an homage, an original design, big brand, micro…doesn’t matter. I’ve been on this kick finding the biggest bang for the buck and want to see what you all say…thought it would be fun…go!
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For a diver under $300, my vote goes for Orient—either the Kamasu or Mako. It’s very hard to find a better bang for the buck at that price point.
Orient Kamasu…buy it from Amazon for $230
https://www.orientwatchusa.com/collections/kamasu?gad=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI4f3oz9bu_gIV6HpMCh3KMAttEAAYAiAAEgLYg_D_BwE
I recommend something from the Islander lineup. Seiko movements, sapphire crystals, great bracelets, great QC, they stand behind their products.
Here are 16 models currently in stock under $300
https://longislandwatch.com/islander-watches/#/perpage:48/filter:calculated_price:200:300/filter:ss_in_stock:1:*/filter:water_resistance:200
I have a couple Islanders already but am currently tempted by the "PAN AM" Dual Time
Dan Henry 1970 for another option
Seiko 5
Helm. Take your pick and then wait your wait time...🫠
It's Orient if you want to give the impression that you 'think different' and feel sapphire glass is super important. It's Seiko if you want to be a bit more establishment and know that mineral glass is going to be as good for what 99% of people use their divers for anyway. They're the two logical choices.
Of course there are tons of AliExpress friendly watches around this price, too. But honestly, why go digging around in brands I don't even trust to spell their own name right on their dials, when you can get real heritage from brands like Seiko and Orient, and never have to explain your choice to anyone, normie or watch aficionado alike? Go with the established, respected brands from the start and don't sweat it.
I like the Citizen NY0040. A modern classic, original design, still in production, ISO-certified and military issued to the Italian Navy. Around $200
Helm. Take your pick and then wait your wait time...🫠
yessir....Ive been on the list for a while...love these!
Orient for specs,seiko you know what your getting,steeldive for value. All do great watches for the money.
So went back and forth on this and ended up with the San Martin SN006GB-V2. The applied indexes and logo along with the milled, quick adjust bracelet, with a sapphire crystal. ALOT of watch for the money. I almost ordered the Orient but in retrospect I am glad I didn’t. I love the San Martin!
Orient Kamasu or Ray or the invicta 1953 super little watches under that price point sir 👍🏻