The Best Watches Under 500 Euros (2025)

Looking for a quality watch under €500? Then you've come to the right place. For this price, there's a surprising amount of choice: from stylish dress watches to robust field watches and even unique microbrands. In this blog post, we discuss four watches we'd personally consider in this price range. No sponsored picks, just genuine favorites from watch enthusiasts.

Why €500 is a good watch budget

The €500 price point offers the perfect balance between price and quality. You can choose from automatic movements , sapphire crystal , trusted brands, and even unique designs from smaller manufacturers. It's an amount that will give you serious watchmaking enjoyment without immediately reaching €1,000 or more.

1. Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical – Classic, cool and mechanical

💶 Suggested retail price: €445
📏 Diameter: 38 mm
⏱️ Movement: ETA 2801-2 (manual winding)
🔍 Glass: Sapphire crystal
🕰️ Power reserve: 42 hours

The Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical is a modern classic with a nod to military watches of the past. The design is understated, playful, and yet rugged. With its manual movement and compact 38mm size, this watch looks particularly good on smaller wrists. Despite its robust design, it looks refined enough to be worn under a shirt.

One of the most impressive features is the ETA 2801-2 movement: a reliable mechanical motor that you wind yourself every day. For those who enjoy interacting with their watch, this is a fantastic choice. The sapphire crystal finish completes the look.

✅ Why choose?
A perfect entry into the world of mechanical watches, with an iconic design and solid Swiss build quality.

2. Seiko Presage SRPE19J1 – Elegance for Every Day

💶 Suggested retail price: €460
📏 Diameter: 40 mm
⏱️ Movement: Seiko 4R35 (automatic)
🕰️ Power reserve: 41 hours

The Seiko Presage series is known for its high-quality workmanship at a modest price. This particular version, with its deep blue dial, looks even more impressive in person than in photos. Its classic design makes it an excellent choice for both everyday wear and formal occasions.

With an automatic movement, a reliable 41-hour power reserve, and a beautifully detailed dial, this Seiko offers incredible value. This watch feels premium without the premium price tag.

✅ Why choose?
For those looking for a refined dress watch with Japanese precision and timeless design.

3. Omega x Swatch MoonSwatch – The playful outsider

💶 Suggested retail price: €250 - €300 (depending on version)
🛠️ Material: Bioceramic
⏱️ Movement: Quartz

A surprising choice perhaps, but one that many watch fans have already considered: the Omega x Swatch MoonSwatch. This collaboration brought an affordable version of the iconic Omega Speedmaster to the market – in a lightweight, colorful version.

Although the watch is made of plastic and features a simple quartz movement, it remains a must-have with cult status. Especially with a Watch Mates strap, the MoonSwatch takes on a completely different look and wearability.

✅ Why choose?
Ideal as a playful addition to a collection, or as a conversation starter for anyone interested in watch history.

4. Nodus Sector Sport II – Microbrand with character

💶 Suggested Retail Price: €414 (converted from Australian dollars)
📏 Diameter: approx. 38-40 mm
⏱️ Movement: Seiko NH38 (automatic)

The surprising highlight of this list is undoubtedly the Nodus Sector Sport II. This American microbrand from Los Angeles impresses with original designs, solid specifications, and a distinctive style. The watch has a sporty look with large indices and a clear link to the Rolex Explorer, without being a direct copy.

With a reliable Seiko movement, solid build quality and unique design, this watch is an excellent choice for those who want something different from the established names.

✅ Why choose?
For those who love unique, characterful watches and prefer not to wear a run-of-the-mill model.

Conclusion: What is the best watch under 500 euros?

That depends entirely on your style and preference. Want something classic with a history? Then go for Hamilton . Looking for elegance and refinement? Then Seiko is your match. Looking for something original that you don't see on every wrist? Then Nodus is a breath of fresh air. And just want a fun, eye-catching watch to go with it? Then the MoonSwatch might be your guilty pleasure.

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