Building a watch collection on a budget? Here’s Where to Start (2026)

You don’t need A four-digit Swiss movement to tell what time it is – or to look good doing it. One of the coolest things about “Budget” hours. Today (although it’s nicer, or more appropriate, to say “affordable”) is that brands have learned to take design cues from luxury watches while quietly mastering the basics: reliable movements, thoughtful materials, and dimensions that don’t scream “cheap.” Take a look at Orient’s picks in WIRED below as a prime example.

It can easily be said that we are in the golden age of affordable watches (see our The complete guide is here For definitive proof), where, if you choose wisely, $350 or less can buy you everything from a coveted dress watch, a high-end collaboration, to a super-capable, classically elegant diver. Pieces that will see you straight from sunken wreckage to the boardroom table. And let’s not forget the retro appeal of digital watches right now, either, as the Shark Classic is not only one of our favorite watches here, but at $70, it’s also the least expensive.

Plus, if you decide to carry more than a few of these (and who can blame you at these prices?), we’ve got the perfect carrying case of your choice: Nanuk’s IP67 waterproof and dust-resistant NK-7 resin for $175 910 watch case (pictured above) with the patented PowerClaw closure system – perfect for securing any watch collection, whether a bargain or a big budget watch.

Be sure to check out our other wearable coverage, including Best budget watches under $1000, Best smart watches, Best fitness trackersand Best smart rings.