Having a thousand-dollar budget for a watch should be more than enough for you to get a great starter watch. Whether mechanical, Quartz, or smartwatch, that kind of money is the golden threshold when it comes to buying timepieces that are of quality. So if you haven’t completed your Christmas shopping yet, it’s high time that you do – watch shopping!
We’ve collated the best of the best in each watch category for you to munch on. Of course, some people will tell you that mechanical is better than quartz, and why buy a mechanical when you can have a smartwatch for way less money – we’ve surmised that the regular buyer won’t care as much with the specs, the most important thing is getting the best value for it.
Smartwatches
There is no greater time to get a smartwatch than now. The technology for this type of watch is at its all-time high, and you’ll never find another time to get the best bang for your buck. With an array of features that comprise of heart rate monitoring, GPS, and overall health tracking, smartwatches are marvels of wearable technology.
If you have an iPhone (or the person you are buying for use the Apple ecosystem), there is no beating the Apple Watch. In its fifth iteration, you get an always-on display, better battery management, plus the fall detection and better screen size from the previous models. It’s one of the best watches under 1000 according to thewatchcompany.com, and you’re gonna love the other features it carries.
For Android users, the best smartwatch is dependent on the device they’re using. Smartwatches are smartphone-dependent nowadays, as the integration between these devices provides for better overall monitoring. The Galaxy Watch Active 2 is best in class for Samsung users, while the embattled Huawei have Watch GT, in its second version as well.
Mechanical
Luxury mechanical watches start at thousands of dollars, but there are options out there which tip the thousand-dollar mark, and less. The most important things to consider for this category are inhouse movement, water-resistance, power reserve, case material, and sapphire crystal. It’s not criminal if one or two of these are lacking, of course.
If you want a Swiss-made mechanical watch, the Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic is the golden choice. The movement is in-house Caliber H-40, boasting of an 80-hour power reserve and made entirely in stainless steel with sapphire crystal in front and back. You can get the King Auto or the Intramatic, and you’re good to go.
Another worthy mention for this category is the Seiko Prospex watch. Seiko is a Japanese brand that has been at the forefront of East Asian watchmaking tradition, and their watches can compete toe-to-toe with the best Swiss-made watches in the world. And their watches are prized way more reasonable!
Get the Prospex SPB051J1, is an automatic diver’s watch with a water-resistance of 200m, with an inhouse 6R15 movement. This particular model is in blue dial and black silicone band, and while the black dial and stainless steel clasp are way classier, it’s the perfect sports watch that can transition seamlessly from office to a night out. It looks expensive, and won’t quit on you.
Quartz
There was a time when a watch with quartz movement is frowned upon by purists and watch enthusiasts. The way Quartz revolutionized the industry is nothing short of extraordinary, and the number of quartz watches in wrists today trumps any category. For the regular folk, they want a watch that works, and that’s where the quartz movement shines.
Skagen’s Hybrid Quartz Watch is the perfect watch if you like the no-frills aesthetic – the Danish watch company redefines the meaning of minimalism with their watches, and any quartz watch in their collection is worthy of a buy. Tag Heuer Formula 1 Quartz is also a great option, and it’s in an electric blue dial and has a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal for tight corners.
Takeaway
Listen, a thousand-dollar budget will go a long way if you’re shopping for watches. If you’re particularly savvy, you can get two or three quality watches with it. With at least one in mechanical movement at that. What you need to do is research on your options, and look for quality deals, both online and offline.
