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The 14 Best Affordable Watch Brands of 2023

Marcus Vance • • 4 min read
The 14 Best Affordable Watch Brands of 2023

While plenty of accessory trends come and go, there’s nothing as timeless as a watch. No matter the outfit or occasion, you can never go wrong sporting the jewelry on your wrist, as a watch can add instant flair and sophistication to any look. And while there are plenty of luxury options available on the market, you don’t have to spend a fortune to find a pick that’s both practical and stylish.

But no matter what kind of watch you go for, the most important thing is that the one you decide upon feels like you. “Watches are no longer just a status symbol worn by Wall Street types,” explains stylist Robyn Victoria Fernandes. “They should be an extension of your personality.”

Whether you’re the kind of person who always keeps her look professional or someone who gravitates towards colors and fun in fashion, there’s a price-friendly watch out there for you.

Read on for the best affordable watch brands as well as styling expertise from Fernandes.

Meet the Expert

Robyn Victoria Fernandes is a New York-based fashion stylist who’s worked with clients such as Heidi Klum, Eva Mendes, and Billy Porter.

What to Look for When Buying Affordable Watches

Size

“The sizing of a watch is measured by the face,” says Fernandes. “So it can vary with small (16 millimeters), medium (about 24 to 26 millimeters), and large (32 millimeters). When picking the right watch for you, be sure to consider the fullness of your wrist. If you want to make a statement, go with the 32 millimeter. But for a safe but chic look, go with a medium size.” 

Occasion

Before buying a watch, think about where you’ll be wearing it most frequently. If you’re going to be rocking it at the office most days, then you’ll want something more formal and professional—but if you plan on only bringing it out for date nights or strolls through the city, you’ll want to go with a more casual or colorful pick. 

FAQ

  • According to Fernandes, the easiest method to measure your wrist is by using measuring tape. “Wrap the tape around your wrist, preferably a little below the wrist bone where you want the watch to sit,” she advises. “Make sure the tape is snug, but not tight. Line up the tape with the metal of the tape or where the tape says zero and note the measurement in centimeters.” If you don’t have a measuring tape, you can use string or thread, repeating the above steps but cutting the string at the point where one end meets the other. “Once you have that, use a ruler to take the measurement," she explains.

  • “When wearing a dress, don't be afraid to layer bracelets or bangles above your watch,” says Fernandes. “Just make sure the fit is right—you want the bracelets to stay above the watch versus clustered below. And keep your rings simple, maybe just one on that hand.”

  • According to Fernandes, it depends on the setting of your workplace. “If you have to wear a tailored suit every day, think less is more—your watch on one hand and one or two bracelets on the other hand," she says. "If your office is more of a casual Friday five days a week, then layer and experiment, but don't overdo it. A watch and three thin bangles (think Tiffany & Co. but on a budget) would look great."

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie writer Rachel Simon has covered shopping and style extensively for publications including Glamour, InStyle, Brides, and more. Her work has also appeared in The New York Times and Vice, among other outlets, and she teaches writing with Gotham Writers Workshop and Redbud Writers Project. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Writing, Literature, and Publishing from Emerson College.

Marcus Vance
Author

Marcus Vance

Marcus Vance is a cybersecurity auditor and technology writer dedicated to educating the public about online safety, data privacy regulations, enterprise security, and emerging cyber threats.