The Collection
Watches Under $1,000 That Punch Way Above Their Price
Quality timepieces that punch way above their weight class.
Author: Trevor Hunter
Last updated: January 2026
I put a list together for some friends who were looking for a proper watch under a grand, and figured I'd share it here. These are all watches I've either bought myself or handled enough to vouch for.
Frederique Constant
Typical price: ~$795
Reference: FC-220DGS5B6
"The Frederique Constant is stupid good for the money. It’s quartz, but don’t let that turn you off. It looks and wears like a proper watch, feels premium, and since its quartz you can toss it in a drawer for a week and it’ll still be ticking when you come back. No winder box required."
A solid choice for a dress watch that doesn't need babying. It slips under a cuff easily and works just as well with a suit as it does with a polo.
Tissot PRX
Typical price: ~$725
Reference: T137.807.44.041.00
"The Tissot PRX is an absolute banger. It’s got a guilloché dial, the real deal, same style you’ll see on an AP Royal Oak. It catches light like it’s fantastically well. Comes in at 40mm, which is just right on the wrist."
Integrated bracelet sports watch vibes for a fraction of the price. If you want that 70s steel sports look without the 5-figure price tag, this is the one.
Brew Metric
Typical price: ~$450
Reference: Metric Retro Black
"Brew makes a great American watch too. Looks cool, feels quality, solid across the board, but it’s 38mm, and that can wear small if your wrists are on the thicker side."
Retro espresso-machine aesthetics that actually work. It’s a chronograph that prioritizes style over pure utility, perfect for a weekend drive.
Maen
Typical price: ~$800
Reference: Hudson 38 GMT / Manhattan 37
Left: Hudson 38 GMT | Right: Manhattan 37
"Same story for Maen, either the Hudson 38 or Manhattan 37. Super clean, crazy well made, and great designs. But again, they’re smallish. Not a dealbreaker, I have one of their 38s in my regular rotation and really like it."
Vintage sizing with modern build quality. These lean into the classic proportions of the mid-20th century, making them ideal for smaller wrists or those who prefer a more restrained presence.
Seiko SSK003
Typical price: ~$475
Reference: SSK003
"Last one, the Seiko SSK003. Straight-up legend. Runs forever. One of those pass-it-down-to-your-kid type watches. And while it’s got some Rolex DNA, it’s not pretending to be one. It just looks good and works hard."
The everyday workhorse that never quits. It adds a GMT function for travelers but stays tough enough for yard work or a swim.
