Everyone would like a Rolex Sub, Daytona, or a Sea Dweller – better than money in the bank and a great watch to wear on special occasions. But in the real world, lots of people cannot afford to splash over 10K on a nice Rolex.
So if you like beautifully made watches and have a more modest collection budget than Ryan Reynolds, here are five watches under 500 quid that we spotted in 2021, the Year Of The Whitty in the Chinese calendar.
Yeah we made that up. Sounds plausible though.
5. Brew 8-Bit
This 80s arcade game themed watch is destined to be a collectors item. Like Miami Vice, Duran Duran or rah-rah skirts, the arcade machines like Space Invaders or The Firebird, defined the 1980s.
Pixellated graphics are an extra touch that shows Brew loves the 80s. Retails at $395.
4. Boldr Supply Freediver 40mm
At $519 the Freediver in vibrant orange or mint green is a proper 300m tool watch. Miyota automatic movement true, not Sellita, but if you love the quick-change strap, bright colours and the sheer value this offers, then this has to be on the wish list.
3. CIGA Design Z Series Skeleton Automatic
What a spec for £189. Sapphire crystal, Seagull 25 jewel auto movement customised by CIGA, plus 18K gold plated case. QR strap fitting too.
CIGA are a Chinese brand to follow in 2022, with big ambitions and this model will be a collectors item one day when CIGA are deemed cool by various watch websites more famous than us.
2. Tissot PRX 80 Auto
Hard to go wrong by paying tribute to the great Gerald Genta, watch designer supreme. Tissot really hit the spot with this one. The PRX has those classic, elegant lines, a Powermatic 80 hour reserve movement, tapering bracelet links and we found it online at £508.
Sorry who?
OK, you’ve never heard of Zeitgeist, the Singapore watch brand who showcased this beauty on Kickstarter earlier this year.
But look at the spec; 500m of depth ability, bronze case, 13mm thickness, helium valve. Miyota movement or you can upgrade to an ETA if you prefer. Ceramic bezel, superlume, plus that Harrison H1 chronometer engraving on the caseback.
Brilliant value at $499 on pre-order. No wonder they raised over $90,000 on this one.