There are certain things that can immediately elevate an outfit from decently fashionable to absolute lady killer. Pocket squares, bracelets, tie clips, and cuff links all give off a certain “I care about the details” appeal to them. But the real head-turner–the one that will have ladies swoon and men wondering what that price tag looked like–is the perfect watch. Of course, you don’t have to spend a million bucks to look like you did. That’s why we had our friends at Life, Tailored put together a list of the best watches you can get to make a statement, without spending every dollar in your wallet.
Here are 15 watches worth wearing, all under $500…
Danish Design by Franklin Weisz, $250
Here’s the perfect starter watch for anyone new to the fancy-wrist game. It’s simple, it’s stylish, and looks like you paid a lot more than you actually will. Plus the limited color scheme means you can wear it with just about anything, and that’s a great quality in a timepiece. Buy it here…
Seiko Dive Watch, $185
Seiko has well over 200 years of experience making extremely capable–yet remarkably affordable–watches. The Dive Watch is no exception, built for a life above or below the waves. Buy it here…
Paul Hewitt Nato Strap Watch, $185.50
This Paul Hewitt watch is for those gentlemen we mentioned in the intro. It has a very classic dial design, plus a navy blue & green strap that gives it a bit of youthfulness and edge. Buy it here…
Danish Design Watch, $249
This beauty from Danish Design is all about simplicity and style. It’s not your ordinary “bling,” but really a declaration of one’s taste. It will fit in perfectly when worn by a contemporary man who doesn’t follow mainstream trends. Buy it here…
Kitmen Keung Watch – Long Distance 1.0 Gold Edition, $420
If you like to stand out for all the right reasons, then this watch is definitely a smart investment. With two dials and a very minimal look, this beauty will differentiate you from the crowd. Buy it here…
Braun Watch, $175.25
A typical Braun watch is characterized by a timeless design with no superfluous details. Every feature directly reflects a function. Rooted in over half a century of modern design at Braun, this piece truly reflects the company’s core values of functionality, quality, and aesthetics. Buy it here…
Breytenbach BB7740 Watch, $372.20
This classic piece will blend in with any form of personal style, while standing out with its refined details. Breytenbach is all about the best: best materials, best performance, and all for the best price. Buy it here…
Tissot Tradition Men’s Chrono Quartz Rose, $495
Here’s a contemporary statement with a whisper of vintage style. The Tissot Tradition watch is both ultramodern and includes a hint of nostalgia. The high-tech operation is perfectly balanced with classical details and subtle vintage-look finishes. Buy it here…
Timex x J.Crew Andros Watch, $118
This stainless steel watch and navy strap matches nautical style with superb functionality. As part of the collaboration between Timex and the stylish J.Crew, it mixes old-school charm with modern capabilities — a substantial piece from two iconic American brands. And if you use promo code ‘GIVETHIS,‘ you will get 30% off for a limited time. Buy it here…
Uniform Wares 203 Series Brushed-Steel Watch, $480
One of the sleekest pieces on the list, this wrist-watch from Uniform Wares is perfect for any minimalist out there. It gives you the style you want without the added fuss and weight. Plus, the thin design is perfect for slipping under a tailored suit sleeve. Buy it here…
Castiglioni Chronograph Watch, $328
This Castiglioni watch features an easy-to-read black dial with white numbers and indexes. The chronograph movement records up to 60 minutes in 1/10 second increments. The design is by Achille Castiglioni, whose work is featured in the MoMA’s Architecture and Design department–making it a true piece of contemporary art. Buy it here…
M&Co Watch, 5 O’Clock, $135
Tibor Kalman is a legendary designer at M&Co, and he’s known for designs that combine function, wit, and whimsy. With jeweled quartz movements, the 5 O’Clock watch has a brushed stainless steel case and comes with a topstitched calfskin band lined with taupe glove leather. It’s no surprise that this sophisticated design can be found in the MoMA Museum. Buy it here…
Denis Guidone Sometimes Watch, $140
A true collector’s piece, the Sometimes Watch features elongated colored hands that juxtapose against a black dial and case. The independent movement of the second hand appears out of sync with time, but sometimes–for a moment–all three hands align. Buy it here…
Mougin & Piquard for J. Crew Grande Seconde Watch, $425
In another great collaboration with J. Crew, Mougin & Piquard has put together a timepiece that works well from the city to the suburbs. Pair it with some jeans on the weekends, or a navy suit in the office. Buy it here…
Paul Smith City Classic Stainless Steel Watch, $490
Paul Smith is globally recognized for elegance and sophistication. This watch is no exception. Pair it with a slim cut suit for that put together, dapper-as-hell look, or throw it on with a leather jacket and some Chelsea boots for a buttoned up look with some edge. Either way, this is one damn classy watch, while still managing to stay below the $500 mark. Buy it here…
