I feel like a lot of the love for budget brands like Seiko, Orient, Tissot amongst watch enthusiasts ties to tribute watches, aka watches that are presented as more affordable alternatives to iconic luxury watches, be it the seiko tank, the steel integrated bracelet watches, that have been coming out lately, lacos flieger watches etc.
While I have a lot of love for tribute time pieces, I would like to know, what are some watches from budget brands, that have brought something different and unique to the table, and have claimed an iconic status entirely on their own merit.
The first ones that come to my mind is the original G-Shock Square from the 90s, and the Seiko SKX,
I would love to hear your picks.
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Seiko Alpinist, the original one, not the new overpriced one. Sea-Gull 1963. Tissot PRX. Vostok Amphibia. Vintage Omega Seamasters.
Vostok Amphibian / Scuba Dude.
Bit surprised that no one else on this post has mentioned it, but I would argue that Swatch brings different and unique watches (and other concepts!) to the table. They single-handedly saved Switzerland’s watch industry with the way they produced and sold their budget-friendly watches while still maintaining an innovative streak. I realize that there are some on this channel would snub anything made by Swatch, but the parent group controls ETA SA, which makes many of the watch components used by other brands.
Citizen eco drive
Bulova marine star
Lot of cool budget quartz watches
Casio F91-W
Casio World Time
Mondaine Classic
CasiOak
Might add the Braun watch to the list, but I think they’ve gotten more expensive.
Seiko SARB035. A really nice looking watch for a very good price. It’s understated yet classy and works nicely on the bracelet for a sporty look or on a variety of straps if you want to make it look more formal/elegant
