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10 Best Starter Watches: A Guide for New Collectors
May 31, 2024
Starting the journey of watch collection and finding the best starter watches can be both exciting and overwhelming. The world of horology offers a wide array of styles, brands, and features, making it difficult to know where to start.
As a basic rule of thumb, you can start by sorting out your preferences and narrowing down the options based on your budget, types of movement, and watch design that you're looking for. In many cases, people start small by spending on affordable watches with versatility, quality, and durability.
To help you find good watch starters, this article will highlight some of the best starter watches for new collectors, considering factors such as quality, affordability, and timeless appeal.
What Is a Starter Watch?
A starter watch is an entry-level timepiece that introduces individuals to the world of watch collecting. These watches are chosen for their combination of affordability, reliability, and style, making them perfect for those new to horology. A good starter watch provides a solid foundation for understanding the nuances of watch design, mechanics, and culture.
Qualities to Pay Attention to for Good Starter Watches
There are several things you need to know for a good-quality starter watch. Here’s the explanation:
- Brand recognition: Choosing a watch from a reputable brand ensures quality and reliability. Established brands have a history of craftsmanship and are known for their durability and customer service. Brand recognition also adds value and credibility to your collection.
- Affordability: As a beginner, it's wise to start with a watch that doesn't break the bank. Affordable watches allow you to explore different styles and features without a significant financial commitment.
- Craftsmanship and materials: The craftsmanship and materials of a watch determine its durability, comfort, and overall quality. High-quality materials ensure the watch can withstand daily wear and tear while maintaining its appearance.
- Watch design: The design of a watch should resonate with your personal style and be versatile enough for different occasions. A well-designed watch can complement various outfits and settings.
- Features: Features add functionality to a watch, making it more than just a timekeeping device. Depending on your lifestyle and preferences, different features can enhance the utility of the watch.
Read also: How to Build A Watch Collection for Valuable Addition
Gnomon’s Picks: Best Starter Watches to Begin Your Collection
Ready to start with your best starter watch? Here are some of the best starter watches to begin with your collection that offer affordability, durability, and high quality.
1. Mido Ocean Star Tribute Blue Ref. M026.830.11.041.00
Movement: Swiss Caliber 80, Diameter: 40.5mm, Thickness: 13.5mm, Lug to Lug: 46.5mm, Water resistance: 200m.
The Mido Ocean Star Tribute Blue is the best starter watch for those who appreciate a blend of classic aesthetics and modern technology. This watch pays homage to the brand's diving history with a striking blue dial and bezel, reminiscent of the ocean depths.
Its stainless steel case and bracelet offer both durability and a refined look, making it suitable for everyday wear or more formal occasions. Additionally, its 200-meter water resistance makes it a practical choice for diving enthusiasts or anyone who enjoys water activities.
Price: $1,035.00 USD
2. King Seiko Mechanical Automatic Sunburst Silver Ref. SDKS001
Movement: Caliber 6R31, Diameter: 37mm, Thickness: 12.1mm, Lug to Lug: 43.6mm, Water resistance: 100m.
The next watch for beginners with a reliable performance is the King Seiko Mechanical Automatic Sunburst Silver. With its sleek, sunburst silver dial and meticulously polished stainless steel case, this watch exudes sophistication and elegance.
The sharp, angular design of the case and the distinctive dauphine hands highlight Seiko's attention to detail and craftsmanship. This watch features a high-precision automatic movement, showcasing Seiko's expertise in mechanical watchmaking.
Price: $1,440.00 USD
3. Steinhart Ocean 39 GMT Black/Red Ceramic
Movement: SW330-2, Elaboré, Diameter: 39mm, Thickness: 13mm, Lug to Lug: 47mm, Water resistance: 300m.
The Steinhart Ocean 39 GMT Black/Red Ceramic is a versatile and robust choice for a starter watch, especially for travelers. Its GMT function allows the wearer to track multiple time zones, making it perfect for globetrotters or those who communicate across different regions.
The black and red "Pepsi" ceramic bezel adds a splash of color and durability, making it resistant to scratches and wear. With a solid stainless steel case and bracelet, this watch is built to last.
Price: $640.00 USD
Read also: How to Use Dive Watch Bezels: A Simple and Thorough Guide
4. Ball Watch Co. Engineer III Marvelight Chronometer Blue Ref. NM9026C-S6CJ-BE - 904L Steel
Movement: Automatic caliber BALL RR1103-C, Diameter: 40mm, Thickness: 13.5mm, Water resistance: 100m.
If your priority is a watch with certified precision, the Ball Watch Co. Engineer III Marvelight Chronometer Blue would be the best starter watch for you. Certified as a chronometer, this watch guarantees high precision and reliability, thanks to its COSC-certified automatic movement.
Additionally, the watch boasts anti-magnetic protection and shock resistance, making it a durable choice for everyday wear. The blend of cutting-edge technology, rugged durability, and stylish design makes the Ball Engineer III Marvelight an excellent addition to any new collection.
Price: $1,990.00 USD
5. Citizen The Citizen Eco-Drive Sunray Blue Ref. AQ4080-52L
Movement: Eco-Drive A060, Diameter: 37.2mm, Thickness: 10.2mm, Lug to Lug: 44.2mm, Water resistance: 100m.
Citizen's Eco-Drive Sunray Blue is a perfect entry point for those new to watch collecting, offering a combination of innovative technology and elegant design. The sunray blue dial provides a captivating visual appeal.
This model also boasts a high-accuracy quartz movement, ensuring precise timekeeping. The minimalist design and practical features, such as the date display, make it suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
Price: $1,990.00 USD
6. Orient Star Contemporary Standard Black Ref. RE-AU0004B
Movement: Caliber F6N43, Diameter: 38.5mm, Thickness: 12.2mm, Lug to Lug: 46.9mm, Water resistance: 100m.
The next best starter watch under $500 for beginners is Orient Star Contemporary Standard Black which offers an excellent balance of quality, affordability, and style. The open-heart design gives a glimpse into the mechanical movement, adding a touch of intrigue and craftsmanship.
Powered by a reliable in-house automatic movement, this watch ensures accurate timekeeping and longevity. The 100-meter water resistance adds a layer of practicality for daily use.
Price: $498.00 USD
Read also: Orient vs Orient Star: Comparing Elite Japanese Crafts
7. Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical Handwinding Black 38 Ref. H69439931
Movement: H-50, Diameter: 38mm, Thickness: 9.5mm, Lug to Lug: 47mm, Water resistance: 50m.
The Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical Handwinding Black 38 is an iconic piece that brings a touch of military heritage to a starter collection. Its straightforward design, with a black dial and white Arabic numerals, ensures excellent legibility, while the 38mm case size offers a comfortable fit for most wrists.
This hand-winding watch features a reliable mechanical movement, providing a traditional watchmaking experience. Its robust construction and 50-meter water resistance make it suitable for everyday adventures.
Price: $545.00 USD
8. Oris Aquis Date Calibre 400 - Bracelet - 43.5mm - Ref. 01 400 7763 4135-07 8 24 09PEB
Movement: Automatic winding date, Diameter: 43.5mm, Water resistance: 300m.
The Oris Aquis Date Calibre 400 is a standout choice for those looking to invest in a high-quality dive watch. Its bold 43.5mm case, made of stainless steel, ensures a commanding wrist presence, while the ceramic bezel adds durability and a sleek look.
Powered by the in-house Calibre 400 automatic movement, this watch offers a remarkable 5-day power reserve and increased resistance to magnetic fields. Its 300-meter water resistance makes it a reliable companion for diving and water sports.
Price: $3,066.00 USD
9. Marathon GPM Government Reissue Mechanical Ref. WW194003SS-0001
Movement: ETA 2801, Diameter: 39mm, Thickness: 11mm, Lug to Lug: 44mm, Water resistance: 50m.
For the best starter watch with a rugged design, the Marathon GPM Government Reissue Mechanical is a nice choice. Designed to meet military specifications, this watch features a no-nonsense black dial with clear white markings and tritium gas tubes for excellent night-time visibility.
This mechanical watch is powered by a reliable hand-winding movement, providing an authentic and tactile watch experience. The Marathon GPM Government Reissue is an ideal starter watch for those who appreciate military history and rugged functionality.
Price: $508.00 USD
10. Rado Golden Horse Automatic Black - Ltd Ed 1957pcs Ref. R33930153
Movement: Swiss ETA C07.611, Diameter: 37mm, Thickness: 10.8mm, Lug to Lug: 44mm, Water resistance: 50m.
The Rado Golden Horse Automatic Black is a stylish and historically significant watch, perfect for starting a collection with a touch of elegance. Limited to 1957 pieces, this watch pays homage to Rado's heritage with a classic black dial and vintage-inspired design elements.
The polished stainless steel case and bracelet add a sophisticated flair, while the iconic anchor logo at 12 o'clock signifies its automatic movement. Powered by a reliable Swiss automatic movement, this watch offers precision and durability.
Price: $1,850.00 USD
Conclusion
Starting a watch collection is a personal and exciting adventure. The watches listed above are the best starter watches to begin with, offering a range of styles, functions, and price points.
Whether you prefer the rugged durability of a Marathon, the elegant simplicity of a Mido, or the timeless appeal of a Hamilton Khaki Field, there's a starter watch out there that will suit your taste and budget. Remember, the best watch is the one that you love and enjoy wearing every day. Happy collecting!
