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Watches don’t have to be expensive to be good. Here are the 12 best affordable watches under $100 that are perfect as gifts.

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Criteria For This List of Budget Friendly Watches

When it comes to gifting watches to someone, I would prefer it to last. I didn’t want to gift a smartwatch or a fashion brand watches that will only last a few years. So here are my criteria for this list:

• Price below/around $100
• Reputable brands
• Good track records
• Value for money

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12 Best AFFORDABLE Watches under $100
(in 4 categories)

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Category 1: Digital Silver Casio

Let’s start with the good old digital watches. When it comes to digital watches, there’s only one brand you can go for. Despite its ridiculously low price tags, Casio has been regarded as one of the best watch brands out there. This style of silver Casio suits those who love the retro look. There are of course lots of models with slight variations from each other.

Here are the ones that I will recommend after trying them on my tiny 150mm wrist.

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Casio A168

The Casio A168 is a bigger brother of the A158, which is a silver version of the famous F-91W. As you can see in the photos below, they look pretty much the same, but the thicker A168 does have a little bit more wrist presence.

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Casio A700

If you would like a thinner, sleeker and might I add, slightly more elegant design than the A168, look no further than the Casio A700. With only a thickness of 6 mm, it is the thinnest Casio digital ever.

You can either opt for this mesh bracelet or this retro looking one. Notice that there are differences in the color of the watch itself too. The mesh featured a silver dial, while the retro bracelet features a usual 80s-looking black dial.

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Casio AE1200 a.k.a Casio Royale

If your loved one likes James Bond and has a thing for geeky gadgets – you can go for the Casio AE1200. In the 1983’s James Bond movie: Octopussy, he was spotted wearing a Seiko G757 5020 Sports 100:

Known as Casio Royale (a play on the James Bond movie: Casino Royale), as you can see, the AE1200 looks a little bit similar to this. This causes a cult following for this watch. The best part of the watch is that it has a world-time function, with a push of a button, you get to see different time zones. Pretty cool.

At a point in time, I actually owned this and modded a little bit. I removed the words illuminator and the 10-year battery because I thought it will be cleaner that way. But afterward, I sold it because it looks kinda big and awkward for my small wrist. Kinda regret it now, not gonna lie.

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Casio A500

What if you really like the world time function, but just like me, you have a small wrist – well afraid not! Casio A500 has come to save us. This A500 is a smaller and slender-looking watch with the same features as the Casio Royale. Even while recording this, I’m getting the itch to purchase one of these to replace my AE1200.

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Category 2: Robust G-Shocks

From a clumsy wreck like me who always drops things, hitting things to a hardcore outdoorsy fireman, get them a Casio G-Shocks. Mr. Ibe, a Casio Engineer at that time set up “Project Team Tough” after he broke a mechanical watch gifted by his father. This team was created to invent a watch that is simply unbreakable.


Following these Triple 10 Principles:
– 10 Year Battery Life
– 10 Bar Water Resistance
– Survive 10 Meter Drop

After throwing over 200 prototypes, the first G-Shock was born.

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Casio G-Shock DW5600

This is by far, the most famous g-shock model, in fact, it is the original design designed by Kikuo Ibe.

One thing to note, however, is because of its shock absorption design, this may wear a little bit big on those with smaller wrists. So a tip would be to drop by your local retail shops to try it on and see if it fits. Below is what it looks like on my 150mm wrist:

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Casio GMA-S2100 a.k.a. CasiOak

Nicknamed after Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, the Casio GMA-S2100 got its nickname because of the similar octagonal design of the watch case. This is also one of the most famous models out there when it comes to the Casio G-Shocks.

I often overlook these CasiOaks because somehow I didn’t find them to be attractive. But surprise surprise, one day I visited a G-Shock shop and spotted this particular model: Casio GMA-S2100, and tried it on. To my surprise, wow. I like how it looks! The next thing I find myself doing is, researching everything to know about these CasiOaks, which I did before.

I found out that this specific model is a smaller version than the usual CasiOak. Casio also marketed this smaller version as a women’s size watch. To be honest, I feel any guy can pull this off especially the white and the black one.

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Category 3: Adventurous Field Watches

Field watches, also known as military watches, are durable timepieces designed for use in rugged outdoor environments. They typically feature a simple, easy-to-read design with large numerals and hands, and a utility-style aesthetic making them a popular choice for adventurers.

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Timex Expedition

Timex Expedition is a line of field watches produced by Timex, a well-known watch manufacturer. These watches are designed for outdoor enthusiasts and feature durable materials, such as water-resistant cases and shock-resistant movements.

Timex Expedition watches often have large, easy-to-read dials and come equipped with features such as Indiglo backlighting, chronographs, and timers. They are known for their combination of affordability, ruggedness, and functionality, making them a popular choice for people who lead active lifestyles.

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Seiko SNK Models

The Seiko SNK is a mechanical automatic field watch produced by Seiko, a renowned Japanese watch manufacturer. This watch is part of Seiko’s popular Seiko 5 line and is known for its affordability and reliability. It features a simple, yet stylish design with a sand-blasted stainless steel case and a canvas strap, and has a durable Hardlex crystal to protect the dial.

It is water-resistant up to 30 meters and has a day-and-date display, making it a practical and versatile timepiece for everyday wear. It is powered by Seiko’s 7S26 automatic movement and is a great option for those looking for an affordable mechanical field watch.

I personally own a beige/cream version (SNK803) and I recently did a full in-depth review in this video

My full review of the watch here

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Category 4: Classy Dress Watches

Dress watches are timepieces designed for formal occasions and are characterized by their understated elegance and refined appearance. These watches typically feature simple, minimalist designs with elegant metal cases, leather straps, and clean, uncluttered dials.

Dress watches often lack the rugged features and added functions of other types of watches, instead emphasizing their classic style and subtle luxury.

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Casio MTP-VT01 or LTP-VT01

This watch has a stylish and modern design that is sure to catch the eye. It features a durable stainless steel case and band, but a very scratch-prone acrylic crystal. The watch has a simple and easy-to-read display, making it perfect for those who prefer a minimalist style.

Both watches have precise quartz movements, ensuring accurate timekeeping, and are ideal for people who dislike the idea of setting the time occasionally.

Whether you’re looking for a modern and stylish watch or a classic and timeless one, the MTP-VT01D-1B and LTP-VT01D-1B have got you covered. I personally bought these two watches as a couple’s watch pair for both my parents.

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Seiko SNKL Models

The Seiko SNKL is a stylish watch that’s a hit with those who appreciate quality and design. Produced by the reliable brand Seiko, it’s part of the popular Seiko 5 collection. With its affordable price tag and dependable performance, the SNKL offers great value.

The watch has a sleek stainless steel case that stands out and a simple but eye-catching dial with easy-to-read hour markers and hands. Whether you’re looking for a stylish accessory to wear on the weekends or just want a high-quality watch to wear every day, the Seiko SNKL is an excellent choice.

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Seiko SNXS Models

I personally own the black/grey dial version (SNXS79) and it is my favorite watch ever. Watch my full review of this watch and whether is it still worth getting here

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Orient Tri Star RA-AB0034Y19B

The Orient Tri Star RA-AB0034Y19B is a truly stunning timepiece that is overlooked and underrated. Its bright sunburst dial and high-quality construction make it a standout watch that is sure to turn heads.

Orient’s stock image of this timepiece does not do justice. I first came across this watch through MinitWatch’s YouTube video, and I was so impressed with it. So, if you’re in the market for a new watch, I highly recommend giving the Orient Tri Star a closer look. You won’t be disappointed.