A good quality casual watch doesn’t have to be expensive. Discover our top 5 picks for the best casual watches under $100 that won’t disappoint.
Watches have become more than just time-keeping devices. They’re now an essential accessory that completes an outfit and reflects one’s personality. However, not everyone can afford high-end luxury watches with a hefty price tag. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get a good-looking and reliable watch without breaking the bank.
If you’re in the market for an affordable watch, you can wear daily; then you’re in luck. In this article, I’ve compiled a list of the 5 best casual watches under $100 that offer style, functionality, and durability. Whether you’re dressing up or down, these watches will add a touch of elegance to your outfit without hurting your wallet.
Everyday Watches and What to Look For
When choosing a casual watch, consider a few things to ensure you get the most out of your investment.
1. Style: The first thing to consider is the style of the watch. Do you prefer a classic or modern design? A vintage or sporty look? Choose a style that suits your personality and the occasions you wear it.
2. Comfort: A watch that is comfortable to wear is vital. Look for a lightweight watch that fits well on your wrist. Leather and nylon straps are a great option for comfort and durability.
3. Durability: A watch that withstands daily wear, and tear is essential. Look for watches that are water-resistant and have scratch-resistant mineral crystal glass. Stainless steel cases and straps are also a reliable choice for durability.
4. Functionality: Consider what features you would like your watch to have. Do you need it to be water-resistant for swimming or diving? A stopwatch or chronograph for timing purposes? Or an essential time and date display?
5. Price: Finally, consider your budget. You don’t have to break the bank to get a great casual watch. Many affordable options offer excellent value for money.
By considering these factors, you can ensure that you will find the best casual watch suited to your needs and lifestyle. Remember, a watch is not just a fashion accessory but a practical and valuable tool on your wrist.
Casio Classic Digital
BEST CASUAL DIGITAL WATCH: CASIO CLASSIC DIGITAL | |
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WHAT WE THINK: | |
The Casio Classic Digital is an excellent choice for those searching for an affordable and reliable watch. With a minimalist design, it is the perfect practical choice for those who prioritize functionality over style. The watch features a digital display, making it easy to read the time accurately. This is especially helpful for those who may have difficulty reading analog watches. It also has a water-resistant design that can withstand splashes and rain, making it an excellent choice for outdoor activities. The Casio Classic Digital comes with an affordable price tag, ranging between $15 and $20. It is available in different colors, such as black, gold, silver, and rose gold, giving its wearers options to choose from to match their style preferences. | |
WHAT CUSTOMERS THINK: | |
“Love it, great all around watch! Feels nice on my wrist since mine is a little big.” “Watch is so smooth. Perfect size , and it's just a legendary W217. Can't complaint. Way smoother than the tiny f91” "Have used this model and its many predecessors for years. Love the night light; stopwatch and alarm. Replacement bands easy to install; replacing disc battery easy also. Great product for the price." | |
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50m Water-Resistant
Long lasting Battery
Plastic BodyCompared to other watches in its price range, the Casio Classic Digital stands out with its reliable quartz movement and durability. Its battery life can last over ten years, an added advantage. It is also comparable to more expensive fashion watches such as the Daniel Wellington or Kenneth Cole watches, but at a fraction of the price.
Overall, the Casio Classic Digital is a fantastic choice for those who want a reliable and practical watch without breaking the bank.
Timex Easy Reader
BEST CASUAL SIMPLE WATCH: TIMEX EASY READER | |
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WHAT WE THINK: | |
The Timex Easy Reader is one of the best casual watches under $100, perfect for daily wear. It boasts a simple and classic design that offers an easy-to-read display, making it an exceedingly legible watch. Versatile in style, the Timex Easy Reader can be dressed up or down and paired with different straps to add a unique touch to its simplistic design. Its minimalist style makes it a versatile timepiece that can be transformed with a NATO strap for a preppy look or dressed with leather for a more sophisticated appearance. The Timex Easy Reader is a favorite timepiece for daily wear thanks to its comfortable and practical size, boasting a 38mm case that fits comfortably on any wrist. Powered by a reliable quartz movement, this watch ensures accurate and precise timekeeping. | |
WHAT CUSTOMERS THINK: | |
“Perhaps the most significant aspect of this watch is well described in its name--Easy Reader. White the date is a little small, the clear and easily read face more than makes up for that. Also, the strap is much, much superior to most leather bands.” “I own several of these watches. Sturdy and easy to read for old eyes. I've been wearing this model for over 30 years. The visibility is perfect at night on my bed stand. The battery lasts for a long time and is easy and cheap to replace." | |
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Its stylistic versatility sets the Timex Easy Reader apart from other watches. Its classic design makes it highly versatile, pairing well with any outfit from casual to formal wear. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for an affordable watch that offers simplicity and style at a reasonable price.
Overall, the Timex Easy Reader is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a watch that’s simple, classic, and versatile enough to wear daily. Whether you’re looking for a watch to dress up or dress down, the Timex Easy Reader offers practicality and style in one.
G-Shock GA-2100
BEST CASUAL HYBRID DISPLAY WATCH: G-SHOCK GA-2100 | |
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WHAT WE THINK: | |
The G-Shock GA-2100 watch is a stunning piece with a unique design, impressive functionality, and outstanding durability. Its unique design is evident in the digital-analog hybrid display with a sleek black dial with white numerical and index hour markers. The black resin case measures 45.4mm in diameter, which combines with the lightweight design to create a perfect fit for all wrist sizes. This G-Shock watch is incredibly durable, thanks to its shock-resistant construction that can withstand any impact from regular use or accidental drops. The watch features a reliable Japanese quartz movement that ensures an accurate timekeeping experience. The G-Shock GA-2100 watch has a water resistance rating of 200 meters, which makes it an excellent choice for water sports enthusiasts. The watch can withstand splashes, swimming, snorkeling, and shallow diving. | |
WHAT CUSTOMERS THINK: | |
“The GA2100 series is a great daily to use, with a smaller dial size and a comfortable strap. Not bulky, and not cheap feeling. The guys at MY WATCH CDM were very helpful choosing the right color, quick to ship, and had great packaging. Would order again from them!” “For a 100 bucks you will get an indestructible watch that is light as a feather. After 3 years you just need to change the battery that is all!" | |
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The watch’s unique features include its unique design, which makes it stand out from other watches in the same price range. The digital-analog display provides a practical choice for those who want a watch that combines the timeless appeal of analog watches and the convenience of digital displays.
The G-Shock GA-2100 watch perfectly exemplifies the brand’s commitment to innovation and quality. Its design, functionality, durability, and specifications make it a top choice for watch enthusiasts and professionals. With this watch, you can expect accurate timekeeping, excellent water resistance, and outstanding performance.
Braun BN0021
BEST CASUAL SLEEK WATCH: BRAUN BN0021 | |
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WHAT WE THINK: | |
The Braun BN0021 watch is a testament to minimalist design with clear Bauhaus influences. Its simple aesthetic with sharp lines and angles exudes a sophisticated and timeless look. The watch's stark black dial features a single yellow hand for added interest and is set against a matching metal strap, creating a monochromatic and elegant finish. This watch is an excellent choice for daily wear, with its reliable Japanese quartz movement - ensuring accurate timekeeping - and water resistance up to 50m, making it suitable for everyday activities. The Braun BN0021 has a diameter of 38mm, making it an optimal size for both men's and women's wrists. | |
WHAT CUSTOMERS THINK: | |
“A very nice sleek and expensive look watch. Strap a little fiddly, but for the looks it's worth it.” “Ok I’ve only had it a short time but, it’s stylish, simplistic and more accurate than my Rolex!" "Very comfortable, aesthetic and adjustable. A watch to avoid complicating life that goes with everything and in any situation. Discreet and quiet" | |
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The watch’s standout features do not stop at its minimalist design and practicality. Its durability and longevity are second to none, ensuring it can withstand everyday wear and tear without compromising its performance.
In conclusion, the Braun BN0021 is an excellent choice for a reliable, stylish, and functional everyday watch. Its minimalist design, clear Bauhaus influences, Japanese quartz movement, and water resistance up to 30m testify to its quality and significance as an everyday watch.
Citizen Quartz BI1043
BEST CASUAL DRESS WATCH: CITIZEN QUARTZ BL1043 | |
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WHAT WE THINK: | |
The Citizen Quartz BI1043 is a stunning timepiece with exceptional features and an affordable price point. It features a 40mm stainless steel case that's tough and comfortable, making it perfect for daily use. The watch also comes with a dive-style bezel that adds a touch of sophistication and durability to the design. One of the critical features of this watch is the day-date display function that makes it convenient for anyone who wants to keep track of their daily schedule. On top of that, the Citizen Quartz BI1043 also has a 30m water resistance rating, making it suitable for outdoor activities or a night out. | |
WHAT CUSTOMERS THINK: | |
“I am pleased with this watch. I Haven’’t worn a watch for years. After having a few links removed from the band I find it comfortable to wear. It is just the right weight and size. A good deal from for the money.” “The watch works well and has a beautiful design. The price point was well worth the money because Citizen makes excellent watches. This is not an eco-drive movement, but you can get an 5-year batteries for reasonable money. I love the watch and I feel most comfortable with a watch is when I forget I am wearing the watch. Next time don't change the links on your watch band because the watch Jewler should have the tools and will only charge you 10 bucks." | |
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The best part about the Citizen Quartz BI1043 is its affordable price point, which makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a beautiful and practical watch. This timepiece gives you style and functionality without breaking the bank. It’s a beautiful investment that can complement your fashion sense while providing accurate timekeeping. In conclusion, the Citizen Quartz BI1043 is a dream come true for anyone looking for a durable, stylish, and affordable watch.
Finals Thoughts
After reviewing the top five casual watches under $100, it’s easy to see why these timepieces are popular among budget-savvy shoppers. While their price tags suggest a lack of quality, each watch boasts unique features that make it stand out.
Firstly, budget watches are not only a practical choice but also a sign of good taste and prudent financial choices. They offer accurate time at an affordable price, making them a wise investment for anyone who wants to keep track of time in style.
Secondly, the most distinguishable features of these watches are their reliability and affordability. These watches offer various features like water-resistant, quartz movement, automatic movements, and excellent Japanese movements at an affordable price range, making them accessible to all.
Lastly, it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing the perfect casual watch under $100. With so many fantastic and classic designs from reputable brands like Daniel Wellington, Casio G-Shock, Kenneth Cole, and Todd Snyder, there is a watch to suit everyone’s tastes.
In conclusion, we encourage readers to share their experiences and tell us their favorite budget watch. It’s always great to have many recommendations from fellow watch enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
When looking for a budget watch that can do more than just tell time, you may have a lot of questions regarding the features and reliability of affordable timepieces. Here are the top FAQs when it comes to the best watches under $100 and their features:
1. What are the most important features to look for in a watch under $100?
The most important features to look for in a watch under $100 are water resistance, accuracy, and durability. Additionally, you may want to consider the design and features that suit your lifestyle.
2. Are watches under $100 reliable?
Yes, there are many reliable watches under $100 on the market today. With brands like Casio, Timex, and Citizen offering high-quality watches at affordable prices, you can get a reliable watch without breaking the bank.
3. Can I get a decent automatic watch for under $100?
While automatic movements tend to be inherently more expensive due to the craftsmanship involved, there are still some options for automatic watches under $100. However, most watches under $100 will use a reliable quartz movement.
4. How much water resistance should I look for in a budget watch?
For a budget watch, you should look for at least 30 meters of water resistance, which is suitable for everyday wear and can withstand brief exposure to water.
5. What is the difference between quartz and mechanical movements?
Quartz movements use a battery to power the watch, while mechanical movements use a spring. Quartz movements are generally more accurate and less expensive than mechanical movements, which require more craftsmanship.
