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10 Best Automatic Watches Under $1000 of 2025

Q: Top 5 Automatic Watches Under $1000

Q: How to Choose Automatic Watches Under $1000

・Consider the Movement ・Consider the Brand ・Choose a Style That Matches the Occasion ・Consider the Complications ・Check the Details Carefully >> Click here for details >> View Full Ranking

In the world of wristwatches, the $1000 mark represents a sweet spot where mechanical artistry meets everyday practicality. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newcomer drawn to the allure of a self-winding movement, our buying guide will help you navigate the critical factors to consider when shopping for an automatic watch. At the end of the article, we've provided a list of our top 10 automatic watches for under $1000 to give you a head start in your search.

Last updated 03/11/2025

Quick List - Top Automatic Watches Under $1000

The Swatch Group AG

Tissot ｜ Gentleman

A Refined Watch That Can Handle Life Outside the Office, Too

Timex

Marlin 40mm

An Upscale Offering From a Classic American Brand

The Swatch Group AG

Certina ｜ DS Action Diver 38mm

A Smaller but Highly Functional Dive Watch

RATIO

FreeDiver

Mixed-Gas Dive Watch

Orient

Bambino Version 4

A Conservative Japanese Dress Watch

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With over a decade of weightlifting experience, Christopher Heffner is an avid fitness enthusiast who enjoys starting his day with a good workout. He also has a background in engineering and business, bringing a unique blend of technical knowledge and practicality to his endeavors.

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Table of Contents

Why You Can Trust Us
What to Expect for Under $1000
How to Choose Automatic Watches Under $1000
1
Consider the Movement
2
Consider the Brand
3
Choose a Style That Matches the Occasion
4
Consider the Complications
5
Check the Details Carefully
10 Best Automatic Watches Under $1000 Ranking
No. 1
The Swatch Group AG | Tissot｜Gentleman
No. 2
Timex | Marlin 40mm
No. 3
The Swatch Group AG | Certina｜DS Action Diver 38mm
No. 4
RATIO | FreeDiver
No. 5
Orient | Bambino Version 4
5 more products
More Ways to Look Sharp

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Why You Can Trust Us

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What to Expect for Under $1000

Within this budget of timepieces, you're stepping into genuine mechanical craftsmanship. Expect a well-constructed timepiece, typically featuring a stainless steel case and a crystal designed for durability. While sapphire is the gold standard, mineral crystals are common (Seiko likes putting Hardlex, their proprietary mineral crystal, on divers for improved impact resistance). The movement—the watch's beating heart—should offer reliable timekeeping, even if it doesn't boast the intricate finishing and precious metals found on higher-priced models.

If $1000 is still out of your budget, consider options under $500.

10 Best Watches Under $500 of 2025

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How to Choose Automatic Watches Under $1000

This buying guide will help you pick an automatic watch under $1000 based on key criteria that will meet your needs, preferences, and style for years of reliability and enjoyment.

Consider the Movement

The movement keeps track of the time and allows the watch to perform other functions without using batteries.

Choose a Well-Known Movement for Ease of Repair

Opting for a movement from a well-known manufacturer translates to readily available parts and servicing. Quality movements are engineered for reliability and designed to withstand the rigors of daily wear. They come in two varieties: those produced in-house and those sourced from third-party suppliers.

ETA and Sellita are the two most widely used Swiss makers of third-party movements, and many of their designs have been widely used for years if not decades. On the other hand, finding someone to service an in-house movement from a small brand such as Jochen Benzinger is likely to prove less convenient.

Content Planner at mybest

Christopher Heffner

My favorite dive watch uses a Top Grade Sellita SW200-1. Although it's from a smaller brand with limited service centers, I wanted a movement that was easily serviceable worldwide.

Look for a Power Reserve of at Least 38 Hours for Daily Use

The power reserve indicates how long a watch will continue to run when not worn. For daily use, a minimum of 38 hours ensures the watch won't stop overnight. This is particularly relevant if you alternate watches, remove them a few hours before bed, or tend to put your watch on later in the day.

For those who prefer to leave their watches unworn over the weekend, a 70-hour or greater power reserve is worth considering to eliminate the need to reset the time and date on Monday morning. Several offerings on our product ranking from brands under the Swatch Group umbrella have an 80-hour power reserve.

See product ranking

Consider the Brand

An established brand with a long history generally has a robust network of service centers and parts availability. For example, Longines started in 1832 and is now part of the Swatch Group alongside brands like Hamilton, Omega, Blancpain, and Tissot. Being part of the organization means shared technology and service networks between brands. From the other side of the world, Seiko, Citizen, and Orient are the three largest Japanese brands with automatic offerings. Knowing that your watch can be easily serviced provides peace of mind.

On the other end of the spectrum, microbrands, often driven by passionate enthusiasts, frequently offer limited-edition designs and innovative features. They prioritize direct customer engagement and can provide a more distinctive timepiece. While some offer in-house movements, most opt for using the third-party movements discussed above. Although they have a long and storied history, Laco is a smaller brand that tends to use third-party movements, as do more recent, enthusiast-centered brands like Ratio and Armida.

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Choose a Style That Matches the Occasion

Your watch should complement the rest of your attire, providing a finishing touch to your overall look.

Dress watches are designed to fit under the cuffs of formal attire. They are typically slender, streamlined, and worn on polished leather straps.
Dive and field watches, known for their robust build and clear dials, are suitable for many occasions but might be out of place in formal settings. However, a proportionately sized diver in modest colors is a versatile watch for almost any occasion.
Chronographs are analog watches that measure time precisely and are often associated with space and motorsports.
A sport watch makes a good choice for those prioritizing durability and simplicity.

We caution against watches that are similar to other well-known models. While the Rolex Submariner and Omega Speedmaster are highly sought-after timepieces, we don't recommend watches that closely imitate these designs. Instead, look for something different enough to be recognized for its own characteristics.

Content Planner at mybest

Christopher Heffner

Although not included in our ranking, the Hamilton Ventura is one of my favorite designs. Its retro-futuristic look helps it stand out, striking a balance of classic and unique.

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Consider the Complications

Complications, such as day and date displays, moon phases, or GMT functions, are functions and modifications to the movement that add practicality and visual interest. Watchmakers often use advanced complications, such as perpetual calendars and tourbillons, to demonstrate their skills. However, the greater the number or intricacy of the complications, the greater the servicing costs. Carefully consider complications, and whether they provide functionality, you can use.

See product ranking

Check the Details Carefully

In this price range, small changes in material and design details can make a big difference. For diving watches, look for "Dive" or "Diver" on the dial next to the water resistance as proof that it's rated for actual diving. This ensures accuracy at a wide range of temperatures, prolonged luminescence, impact resistance, and water resistance.

Sapphire crystal is more scratch-resistant than mineral glass, but other materials, like acrylic, are desirable for some watches' historical accuracy. Regarding straps, look for quality materials such as real leather, stainless steel or titanium bracelets with solid end links, or rubber for dive watches.

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10 Best Automatic Watches Under $1000 Ranking

Following the criteria described in our buying guide, we have curated our list of the top automatic watches under $1,000.

Popularity

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	Products	Image	Click to purchase	Key features	Details
	Products	Image	Click to purchase	Key features	Brand	Case Material	Strap Material	Movement Maker/Model	Water Resistance	Movement Type	Style	Case Dimenstions
1	The Swatch Group AG Tissot｜Gentleman			A Refined Watch That Can Handle Life Outside the Office, Too	Tissot	Steel	Steel	Swiss	100 meters	Automatic	Dress Watch	40 millimeters
2	Timex Marlin 40mm			An Upscale Offering From a Classic American Brand	Timex	Stainless Steel	Leather	Japanese		Automatic	Dress Watch	40 millimeters
3	The Swatch Group AG Certina｜DS Action Diver 38mm			A Smaller but Highly Functional Dive Watch	Certina	Titanium	Titanium	Swiss	300 meters	Automatic	Dive Watch	38 millimeters
4	RATIO FreeDiver			Mixed-Gas Dive Watch	RATIO	Stainless Steel	Rubber	Japanese, Caliber NJ35	1000 meters	Automatic	Dive Watch	unknown
5	Orient Bambino Version 4			A Conservative Japanese Dress Watch	Orient	Stainless Steel	Leather	Japanese	30 meters	Automatic	Dress Watch	41 millimeters
6	Stuhrling Original Depthmaster			A Modern Diver With Classic Design Elements	Stuhrling	Stainless Steel	Steel	Swiss	200 meters	Automatic	Dive Watch	unknown
7	The Swatch Group AG Hamilton｜Khaki Field King			A Modern Take On Military Field Watches	Hamilton	Stainless Steel	Leather	Swiss	50 meters	Automatic	Field Watch	40 millimeters
8	Laco Uhrenmanufaktur GmbH 1925 Pilot Classic			A Piece of Aviation History	Laco	Stainless Steel	Leather	Japanese	50 meters	Automatic	Dress Watch	42 millimeters
9	Bulova Watch Company Inc. Bulova｜A-15			Inspired by a Military Watch From 1944	Bulova	Stainless Steel	Leather	unknown	30 meters	Automatic	Field Watch	42 millimeters
10	Citizen Promaster Dive Automatic			An Update of a Japanese Classic	Citizen	Black Ion Plated Stainless Steel	Steel	unknown	200 meters	Automatic	Dive Watch	44 millimeters

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No.1

The Swatch Group AG
Tissot ｜ Gentleman

Source：amazon.com

Lowest price

$875.00

High Mid

Lowest price

$875.00

High Mid

Brand	Tissot
Movement Maker/Model	Swiss

Case Material: Steel

Strap Material: Steel

Water Resistance: 100 meters

Style: Dress Watch

A Refined Watch That Can Handle Life Outside the Office, Too

While the Tissot Gentleman is a versatile timepiece suited for both professional and casual settings, the name leans towards the more formal side of the spectrum. Its refined design features a clean dial, often with a subtle sunburst finish, paired with slender hands and indices. It does feature 100m of water resistance, making it suitable for most activities. It’s powered by a Swiss automatic movement with an 80-hour power reserve, which can be appreciated through the see-through case back. The Gentleman's appeal lies in its balanced proportions and attention to detail, evident in the polished and brushed surfaces.

Movement Type	Automatic
Case Dimenstions	40 millimeters

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No.2

Timex
Marlin 40mm

Source：amazon.com

Lowest price

$259.00

Low Mid

Lowest price

$259.00

Low Mid

Brand	Timex
Movement Maker/Model	Japanese

Case Material: Stainless Steel

Strap Material: Leather

Water Resistance

Style: Dress Watch

An Upscale Offering From a Classic American Brand

The Timex Marlin 40mm offers a nod to mid-century design with a modern sensibility. Its vintage-inspired dial and domed acrylic crystal further the sense of nostalgia. At 40mm, the stainless steel case will provide a comfortable fit for most wrists. While Timex is an American brand often associated with affordable quartz watches, the Marlin features an automatic Miyota movement bearing the Timex logo (Miyota is one of Japan's biggest movement manufacturers and is a Citizen subsidiary). With 50m of water resistance and a quick-change bracelet, the Marlin can be easily adapted for various settings.

Movement Type	Automatic
Case Dimenstions	40 millimeters

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No.3

The Swatch Group AG
Certina ｜ DS Action Diver 38mm

Source：amazon.com

Lowest price

$1,000.00

High Mid

Lowest price

$1,000.00

High Mid

Brand	Certina
Movement Maker/Model	Swiss

Case Material: Titanium

Strap Material: Titanium

Water Resistance: 300 meters

Style: Dive Watch

A Smaller but Highly Functional Dive Watch

Thanks to its titanium case and bracelet, the Certina DS Action Diver is heavy on features and light on weight. Being a certified dive watch, it’s highly functional. It features a unidirectional rotating bezel with a luminous marker, 300m of water resistance, a screw-down crown, and a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. Measuring 38mm, this diver is on the smaller side, especially for a type of watch known for being bigger, which makes it a good fit for those with smaller wrists and for people who want their dive watch to be a bit less bulky. The watch's Super-LumiNova-coated hands and indices provide exceptional legibility in low-light conditions and underwater. Beneath the surface, a Swiss-made ETA automatic movement ensures accurate timekeeping, has an 80-hour power reserve, and the Nivachron balance spring helps increase resistance to magnetism.

Movement Type	Automatic
Case Dimenstions	38 millimeters

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No.4

RATIO
FreeDiver

Source：amazon.com

Lowest price

$160.00

Lowest price

$160.00

Brand	RATIO
Movement Maker/Model	Japanese, Caliber NJ35

Case Material: Stainless Steel

Strap Material: Rubber

Water Resistance: 1000 meters

Style: Dive Watch

Mixed-Gas Dive Watch

Unlike the previous dive watch on our list, the Ratio FreeDiver is large, tool-focused, and on a silicone strap. Its design prioritizes legibility and durability, with a high-contrast dial, stainless steel case, and a unidirectional rotating bezel. The watch's luminous hands and indices provide exceptional visibility in challenging conditions. The FreeDiver features a reliable Seiko NH36 automatic movement. Rated to 1000m of water resistance and featuring a helium escape valve, the FreeDiver is usable for mixed-gas diving.

Movement Type	Automatic
Case Dimenstions	unknown

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No.5

Orient
Bambino Version 4

Source：amazon.com

Lowest price

$174.90

Low Mid

Lowest price

$174.90

Low Mid

Brand	Orient
Movement Maker/Model	Japanese

Case Material: Stainless Steel

Strap Material: Leather

Water Resistance: 30 meters

Style: Dress Watch

A Conservative Japanese Dress Watch

The Orient Bambino Version 4 is a sleek dress watch with an in-house movement. Its domed crystal and curved dial create a sense of depth often lacking in watches with flat crystals. The slim profile and polished case will help it glide under cuffs and make it a comfortable choice for formal occasions. The Bambino's understated elegance and accessible price point make it a popular choice for those seeking a timeless dress watch. As such, it is frequently recommended on enthusiast forums to people looking for a respectable dress watch without breaking the bank.

Movement Type	Automatic
Case Dimenstions	41 millimeters

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No.6

Stuhrling Original
Depthmaster

Source：amazon.com

Reference price

$249.00

Low Mid

Reference price

$249.00

Low Mid

Brand	Stuhrling
Movement Maker/Model	Swiss

Case Material: Stainless Steel

Strap Material: Steel

Water Resistance: 200 meters

Style: Dive Watch

A Modern Diver With Classic Design Elements

The Stuhrling Depthmaster borrows elements of classic dive watches. Its stainless steel case and textured bezel make it suitable for the aquatic use you'd expect from a watch labeled “professional diver.” The watch's luminous hands and indices provide clear visibility in low-light conditions. Speaking of which, the design of the hour hand is reminiscent of the Submariner. The Depthmaster's unnamed Swiss automatic movement delivers a sweeping second hand.

Movement Type	Automatic
Case Dimenstions	unknown

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No.7

The Swatch Group AG
Hamilton ｜ Khaki Field King

Source：amazon.com

Lowest price

$745.00

High Mid

Lowest price

$745.00

High Mid

Brand	Hamilton
Movement Maker/Model	Swiss

Case Material: Stainless Steel

Strap Material: Leather

Water Resistance: 50 meters

Style: Field Watch

A Modern Take On Military Field Watches

The Hamilton Khaki King is a robust and versatile field watch designed for everyday wear. Its legible dial prioritizes functionality, featuring prominent Arabic numerals for both 12 and 24-hour time and a day-date display at the 12 o’clock position. The stainless steel case is paired with a 20mm leather strap, but the watch can also be had on a bracelet. Like many other watches made by brands under the Swatch Group umbrella, the Khaki King H40 movement is ETA-derived and has an 80-hour power reserve that can be appreciated by a display case back.

Movement Type	Automatic
Case Dimenstions	40 millimeters

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No.8

Laco Uhrenmanufaktur GmbH
1925 Pilot Classic

Source：amazon.com

Lowest price

$410.00

Mid

Lowest price

$410.00

Mid

Brand	Laco
Movement Maker/Model	Japanese

Case Material: Stainless Steel

Strap Material: Leather

Water Resistance: 50 meters

Style: Dress Watch

A Piece of Aviation History

Laco, the commonly used name for Laco Uhrenmanufaktur GmbH, is most famous for supplying pilot watches to the German Air Force. 1925 Pilot Classic accurately reproduces one of several widely used designs. While Laco is still making watches in the same town in Germany, this model is powered by a Miyota movement that operates at 3hz and has a 42-hour power reserve. The 1925 Pilot Classic is available in 42mm, which, while smaller than the 55mm cases of the originals, is much better proportioned for daily wear.

Movement Type	Automatic
Case Dimenstions	42 millimeters

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No.9

Bulova Watch Company Inc.
Bulova ｜ A-15

Source：amazon.com

Lowest price

$335.00

Lowest price

$335.00

Brand	Bulova
Movement Maker/Model	unknown

Case Material: Stainless Steel

Strap Material: Leather

Water Resistance: 30 meters

Style: Field Watch

Inspired by a Military Watch From 1944

The Bulova A-15 is another classic military Aviation watch featuring a Miyota movement. The first thing you’ll notice about the A-15 is the trio of crowns protruding from the case. While the central one operates the movement as you’d expect, the others rotate internal bezels to keep track of elapsed time (upper crown) and a second time zone (lower crown). This method of handling an additional time zone allows for quick, on-the-fly changes that travelers will surely appreciate and avoids the extra service costs often associated with a GMT movement. Like the previous entry on our list, the A-15 comes in a very wearable 42mm case.

Movement Type	Automatic
Case Dimenstions	42 millimeters

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No.10

Citizen
Promaster Dive Automatic

Source：amazon.com

Lowest price

$556.00

Lowest price

$556.00

Brand	Citizen
Movement Maker/Model	unknown

Case Material: Black Ion Plated Stainless Steel

Strap Material: Steel

Water Resistance: 200 meters

Style: Dive Watch

An Update of a Japanese Classic

The Citizen Promaster Dive Automatic is a robust and vibrant dive watch and an update of Citizen’s classic NY0040 series, which was famously issued to Italian Navy Divers. However, unlike those issued watches, this specific model features a fully lumed dial and a black PVD case and bracelet. Citizen rates their watches to 200m of water resistance, but the Italian military tests found that they can withstand over double that amount of pressure. While other colors of this watch are certainly easier to dress up, I am enough of a fan of Citizen’s lumed dials to own two similar but older models. Another distinctive feature of this watch is the 8 o’clock crown, which helps keep it from digging into your hand. As expected, the movement comes from Miyota, a subsidiary of Citizen. And if you’re curious about the fugu or puffer fish engraved on the case back, it’s a reference to the nickname given to the earlier models due to the grip pattern on the bezel.

Movement Type	Automatic
Case Dimenstions	44 millimeters

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Top 5 Automatic Watches Under $1000

No. 1: The Swatch Group AG｜Tissot｜Gentleman

No. 2: Timex｜Marlin 40mm

No. 3: The Swatch Group AG｜Certina｜DS Action Diver 38mm

No. 4: RATIO｜FreeDiver

No. 5: Orient｜Bambino Version 4

View Full Ranking

The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

10 Best Automatic Watches Under $1000 of 2025

Why You Can Trust Us

What to Expect for Under $1000

How to Choose Automatic Watches Under $1000

Consider the Movement

Choose a Well-Known Movement for Ease of Repair

Look for a Power Reserve of at Least 38 Hours for Daily Use

Consider the Brand

Choose a Style That Matches the Occasion

Consider the Complications

Check the Details Carefully

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A Refined Watch That Can Handle Life Outside the Office, Too

TimexMarlin 40mm

An Upscale Offering From a Classic American Brand

The Swatch Group AGCertina ｜ DS Action Diver 38mm

A Smaller but Highly Functional Dive Watch

RATIOFreeDiver

Mixed-Gas Dive Watch

OrientBambino Version 4

A Conservative Japanese Dress Watch

Stuhrling OriginalDepthmaster

A Modern Diver With Classic Design Elements

The Swatch Group AGHamilton ｜ Khaki Field King

A Modern Take On Military Field Watches

Laco Uhrenmanufaktur GmbH1925 Pilot Classic

A Piece of Aviation History

Bulova Watch Company Inc.Bulova ｜ A-15

Inspired by a Military Watch From 1944

CitizenPromaster Dive Automatic

An Update of a Japanese Classic

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10 Best Automatic Watches Under $1000 Ranking

Timex
Marlin 40mm

The Swatch Group AG
Certina ｜ DS Action Diver 38mm

RATIO
FreeDiver

Orient
Bambino Version 4

Stuhrling Original
Depthmaster

The Swatch Group AG
Hamilton ｜ Khaki Field King

Laco Uhrenmanufaktur GmbH
1925 Pilot Classic

Bulova Watch Company Inc.
Bulova ｜ A-15

Citizen
Promaster Dive Automatic