The growing popularity of mechanical watches in recent years is quite surprising, given the allure and functionality of smartwatches. However, advancements in manufacturing technology have allowed for the production of outstanding mechanical timepieces that rival the affordability of higher-end quartz watches. If you’re on the lookout for an affordable mechanical watch that is worth your money, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will list the best mechanical watches in 2024.
1. Seiko Recraft: The Seiko Recraft collection offers a unique vintage-inspired timepiece reminiscent of the 1970s. One standout piece is the SMK P27, featuring a lovely green dial and a rectangular case shape with slightly curved edges. Despite its modest specifications, such as 50 meters of water resistance and a mineral crystal hard lex protecting the dial, this watch impresses with its design and affordability, costing only $275.
2. Tissot Everytime Swissmatic: The Tissot Everytime Swissmatic is an elegant and affordable mechanical watch priced around $400. Its simplicity and clean aesthetic, with a contrasting stark dial and silver case, hands, and indices, make it a stunning timepiece. Inside, a reliable Swiss automatic movement with a 70-hour power reserve and an accuracy of plus or minus 10 seconds a day adds to its appeal.
3. Citizen NJ0100 Automatic: Citizen is a renowned Japanese brand known for its affordable watches. The Citizen NJ0100 Automatic, powered by a Myota 8210 automatic movement, is a visually appealing timepiece with a water resistance of 50 meters. Although it’s an older model and no longer in production, it can still be found online for under $150.
4. Seiko Presage Cocktail Time Blue Moon: The Seiko Presage Cocktail Time Blue Moon is a captivating watch priced at $440. Its 40.5 millimeter stainless steel case houses an automatic four R-3-5 movement with a 41-hour power reserve. The most striking feature of this timepiece is its dark blue sunburst style, which gives it an artistic and captivating look.
5. Tufina Sahara Mechanical: The Tufina Sahara is a popular mechanical watch known for its dressy look and various variants. The rose gold variant stands out with its remarkable silver dial featuring an intricate skeleton composition that creates a mesmerizing display of light. With a mechanical movement, 3 ATM water resistance, rhodium plated case, Alpha photoluminescent hands, and a sapphire-coated lens, this watch exudes elegance. Its price of around $990 adds to its appeal.
6. Orient Kamaso: The Orient Kamaso is an impressive dive watch available for less than $300. It boasts features typically found in higher-priced watches, such as a sapphire crystal glass and a stainless steel case depth rated for 200 meters. The Kamaso’s stunning sunburst dial, available in black, blue, red, or green, is complemented by a matching rotating bezel. Powered by the automatic Orient Calibur F692 movement, this watch is reliable and accurate.
7. Dan Henry 1970 Automatic Diver: The Dan Henry 1970 Automatic Diver pays tribute to the Compressor case dive watches of the late 1960s and early 1970s. It features the Seco NH-3 five automatic movement, water resistance of 200 meters, and comes in two case sizes, 40 millimeters and 44 millimeters. The standout feature of this watch is its beautiful and refreshing dial design, setting it apart from other divers’ watches.
In conclusion, despite the rise of smartwatches, mechanical watches have gained popularity due to the affordability and advancements in manufacturing technology. The listed mechanical watches offer excellent value for money with their impressive designs and reliable movements. Whether you’re looking for a vintage-inspired piece, an elegant watch, or a reliable diving companion, these mechanical watches are worth considering.