For watch enthusiasts and discerning individuals alike, the quest for the perfect timepiece often involves navigating a vast landscape of brands, styles, and price points. While the world of horology boasts watches costing tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, a significant sweet spot exists for those seeking quality and craftsmanship without breaking the bank. Enter the realm of the $700 watch. This price bracket represents a fascinating intersection of affordability and luxury, offering access to sophisticated designs, reliable movements, and enduring style. If you're considering investing in a timepiece around this price point, you've come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about $700 watches, helping you make an informed decision and find a watch that you'll cherish for years to come.

Why $700 is a Sweet Spot for Watch Buyers

The $700 watch price point is often considered a gateway to 'entry-level luxury' or 'premium affordable' watches. It's a step up from budget-friendly, purely functional timepieces and opens doors to a world of enhanced quality and design. Here's why $700 is a particularly attractive price point for many watch buyers:

• Improved Movement Quality: At this price, you're likely to find watches equipped with reliable and often decorated automatic or high-quality quartz movements. While entry-level watches might use basic quartz movements, a $700 watch can feature Swiss or Japanese automatic movements known for their precision and longevity, or advanced quartz movements with enhanced features.
• Higher Quality Materials: Expect to see more robust materials used in $700 watches. Stainless steel cases become standard, often with better finishing. Sapphire crystal, known for its scratch resistance, starts to appear more frequently instead of mineral crystal. Leather straps are likely to be of higher quality, and bracelet options may feature solid end links and more refined construction.
• Enhanced Design and Aesthetics: Brands at this price point invest more in design and aesthetics. You'll find watches with more intricate dial details, applied indices, refined hand designs, and overall more sophisticated case shapes and finishes. This attention to detail elevates the watch from a mere time-telling device to a stylish accessory.
• Brand Heritage and Reputation: Many reputable and established watch brands offer excellent models within the $700 watch range. This allows you to benefit from the brand's history, design expertise, and customer service, offering peace of mind and a sense of prestige.
• Versatility and Longevity: A well-chosen $700 watch is likely to be versatile enough for everyday wear and special occasions. The improved build quality and materials contribute to greater longevity, meaning your investment is more likely to stand the test of time.

What to Expect in a $700 Watch: Key Features and Styles

When you venture into the $700 watch category, you'll encounter a diverse range of styles and features. Here��s a breakdown of what you can typically expect:

Movement Types:

• Automatic Movements: This is a major draw for many at this price. Automatic movements are mechanical movements that self-wind using the motion of your wrist. They offer a fascinating glimpse into traditional watchmaking and are highly sought after by enthusiasts. Expect to find reliable Swiss movements like ETA or Sellita, or quality Japanese movements from Seiko or Miyota in $700 watches.
• High-Quality Quartz Movements: While automatic movements are popular, don't discount quartz. At $700, you can find quartz watches with exceptional accuracy, advanced functionalities (like chronograph complications or solar charging), and robust construction. Swiss quartz movements in this range are known for their precision and reliability.

Materials and Construction:

• Case Material: Stainless steel (316L is common) is the standard, offering durability and corrosion resistance. Some brands may offer titanium cases for increased lightness and hypoallergenic properties, though less common at this specific price point.
• Crystal: Sapphire crystal is a significant upgrade and should be a priority. It's highly scratch-resistant, maintaining the clarity of your watch face for years. Mineral crystal is also possible but less desirable compared to sapphire.
• Straps and Bracelets: Expect genuine leather straps, often with better stitching and more comfortable linings. Stainless steel bracelets will typically feature solid end links (connecting the bracelet seamlessly to the case) and more robust clasps.
• Water Resistance: Most $700 watches will offer at least 50 meters of water resistance, suitable for splashes and light rain. Many will offer 100 meters or more, making them suitable for swimming and showering (though always check the manufacturer's recommendations). Diver's watches in this range will have even higher water resistance and specific diver-related features.

Popular Watch Styles in the $700 Range:

• Dress Watches: Elegant and refined, dress watches are designed for formal occasions. Look for slim profiles, clean dials, and leather straps. Brands like Tissot, Hamilton, and Seiko Presage offer excellent dress watches around $700.
• Sport Watches: Versatile and robust, sport watches can handle everyday wear and light activities. Chronographs, field watches, and pilot watches fall into this category. Brands like Seiko 5 Sports, Citizen Promaster, and Vaer offer compelling sport watch options.
• Diver's Watches: Built for underwater exploration (and stylish on land!), diver's watches are known for their durability, water resistance, and rotating bezels. Seiko Prospex, Orient, and Certina offer excellent diver's watches in this price range.
• Everyday/Casual Watches: This broad category encompasses watches that are stylish and functional for daily wear. They might blend elements of dress and sport watches, offering versatility. Brands like Timex (re-issues and collaborations), and Dan Henry provide great everyday options.

Top Watch Brands to Explore Under $700

Numerous reputable brands excel in the $700 watch price segment. Here are some noteworthy examples, known for their quality, design, and value:

• Tissot: A Swiss brand with a long history, Tissot offers a wide range of styles, from classic dress watches to sporty chronographs, often featuring Swiss automatic movements and sapphire crystals within the $700 budget. Their PRX and Le Locle collections are particularly popular.
• Hamilton: Another esteemed Swiss brand with American heritage, Hamilton is known for its robust and stylish watches, particularly their field watches and pilot watches. Their Khaki Field and Khaki Aviation lines offer excellent value and iconic designs around $700.
• Seiko: A Japanese giant, Seiko is renowned for its innovation, quality, and value. Their Prospex (diver's watches), Presage (dress watches), and 5 Sports collections offer a vast selection of $700 watches with automatic movements and compelling designs.
• Citizen: Another leading Japanese brand, Citizen is famous for its Eco-Drive technology (light-powered watches) and robust sports watches. Their Promaster collection and certain Mechanical models fall within the $700 range, offering innovative technology and solid build quality.
• Orient: A Japanese brand owned by Seiko Epson, Orient specializes in affordable automatic watches. They are known for their in-house movements and classic designs. The Orient Star line and certain models in the Classic collection offer excellent value for automatic watches around $700.
• Certina: A Swiss brand known for its sporty and robust watches, Certina offers a range of diver's and sport watches with reliable Swiss movements and durable construction. Their Diver and DS Action lines are worth exploring for $700 watches.
• Vaer: An American microbrand gaining popularity for its robust and well-designed watches, Vaer offers field watches, diver's watches, and dress watches with a focus on quality and durability. Many of their models fall within the $700 watch price range. Vaer Watches
• Dan Henry: A brand specializing in vintage-inspired watch designs at affordable prices. Dan Henry offers a diverse collection of chronographs, diver's watches, and dress watches with retro aesthetics, many of which are under $700. Dan Henry Watches
• Timex (Re-issues and Collaborations): While Timex is often associated with budget watches, they have been releasing compelling re-issues of vintage models and collaborations that offer excellent value and style around $700. Keep an eye on their Timex website for these special releases.

This is just a starting point. Exploring these brands and their specific models will reveal a wealth of options in the $700 watch category.

Choosing the Right $700 Watch for You: Considerations and Tips

Selecting the perfect $700 watch involves considering your personal preferences, lifestyle, and intended use. Here are some key factors to think about:

• Style and Purpose: Consider what type of watch best suits your style and how you plan to use it. Do you need a dress watch for formal occasions, a rugged sport watch for outdoor activities, or a versatile everyday watch?
• Movement Preference: Do you prefer the traditional appeal of an automatic movement or the accuracy and convenience of a quartz movement? Both are excellent options at this price point.
• Size and Fit: Watch size is crucial for comfort and aesthetics. Consider your wrist size and personal preference for watch diameter and thickness. Read reviews and try on watches in person if possible.
• Features and Complications: Do you need specific features like a chronograph (stopwatch function), date display, GMT (multiple time zones), or a rotating bezel? Prioritize features that are important to you.
• Brand and Reputation: Research brands and read reviews to understand their reputation for quality, reliability, and customer service. Established brands often offer greater peace of mind.
• Long-Term Value: While a $700 watch isn't primarily an investment, choosing a well-regarded brand and a classic design can help retain value over time.
• Read Reviews and Compare: Before making a purchase, read online reviews and compare different models. Watch enthusiast websites and forums are excellent resources.
• Purchase from Authorized Dealers: To ensure authenticity and warranty coverage, buy your $700 watch from authorized dealers or reputable online retailers.

Maintaining Your $700 Watch

To ensure your $700 watch remains in excellent condition and functions reliably for years, proper maintenance is essential:

• Regular Cleaning: Wipe your watch regularly with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust, dirt, and fingerprints. For leather straps, use a leather conditioner periodically.
• Avoid Extreme Conditions: Protect your watch from extreme temperatures, strong magnetic fields, and harsh chemicals.
• Water Resistance Awareness: Understand the water resistance rating of your watch and avoid exposing it to water beyond its limits. Have water resistance checked periodically, especially for diver's watches.
• Proper Storage: Store your watch in a watch box or pouch when not in use to protect it from dust and scratches.
• Professional Servicing: Automatic watches require periodic servicing (typically every 5-7 years) to clean, lubricate, and adjust the movement. Quartz watches generally require less frequent servicing, mainly battery replacements. Consult the manufacturer's recommendations for servicing intervals.

Are $700 Watches a Good Investment?

While some high-end luxury watches can appreciate in value, a $700 watch is generally not considered a financial investment in the same way. Its primary value lies in its quality, craftsmanship, style, and the enjoyment it brings to the wearer. However, a well-chosen and well-maintained $700 watch can certainly be a good investment in your personal style and long-term satisfaction. It's an investment in a quality timepiece that can last for many years and become a cherished accessory.

Conclusion: Embrace Affordable Luxury with a $700 Watch

The $700 watch price point represents a fantastic opportunity to acquire a high-quality, stylish, and reliable timepiece. It's a sweet spot where affordability meets luxury, offering access to reputable brands, sophisticated designs, and robust movements. Whether you're seeking a classic dress watch, a rugged sport watch, or a versatile everyday companion, the $700 watch category is brimming with options. By considering your style, needs, and the tips outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate this exciting market and find a $700 watch that you'll be proud to wear and enjoy for years to come. Start exploring the brands and collections mentioned, and embark on your journey to finding your perfect affordable luxury timepiece.

FAQ: Common Questions About $700 Watches

Is $700 a lot to spend on a watch?

Whether $700 is "a lot" is subjective and depends on individual budgets and priorities. In the world of watches, $700 is considered mid-range or entry-level luxury. It's a significant step up from budget watches and offers a noticeable improvement in quality, materials, and craftsmanship compared to cheaper options. For many, it represents a worthwhile investment in a quality timepiece.

What's the difference between a $200 watch and a $700 watch?

The key differences lie in movement quality (often automatic vs. basic quartz), materials (sapphire crystal, higher grade stainless steel), design refinement, brand reputation, and overall build quality. A $700 watch will generally offer greater longevity, better accuracy (for automatic movements), and a more luxurious feel compared to a $200 watch.

Are automatic watches better than quartz watches in the $700 range?

Neither is inherently "better." Automatic watches are appreciated for their traditional craftsmanship and smooth sweeping seconds hand, while quartz watches are known for their exceptional accuracy and lower maintenance. In the $700 range, both automatic and quartz options can be excellent. The best choice depends on your personal preferences and priorities.

Can I find Swiss Made watches for under $700?

Yes, absolutely. Brands like Tissot, Hamilton, Certina, and some models from other Swiss brands offer "Swiss Made" watches with Swiss movements within the $700 price range. Look for watches explicitly labeled "Swiss Made" to ensure they meet the criteria.

Where is the best place to buy a $700 watch?

Authorized dealers (both brick-and-mortar stores and reputable online retailers) are the best places to buy a $700 watch. This ensures authenticity, warranty coverage, and reliable customer service. Avoid buying from unauthorized sources or gray market sellers, as you may risk receiving counterfeit products or having warranty issues.

How long will a $700 watch last?

With proper care and maintenance, a well-made $700 watch can last for many years, even decades. Automatic watches require periodic servicing, while quartz watches primarily need battery replacements. The longevity depends on the quality of the watch, how well it's maintained, and how frequently it's worn.

What are some good alternatives if I can't find a watch I like for exactly $700?

The $700 price point is a guideline. You can explore watches slightly below or above this range. Consider expanding your budget slightly to $800-$900 to access even more options, or look at brands and models slightly below $700 for excellent value. The key is to find a watch that meets your needs and preferences, regardless of the exact price.

References and Sources

While specific URLs are provided for brand websites for further exploration, the general information in this article is based on common knowledge within the watch enthusiast community and publicly available information about watch brands and features. For deeper research, consider exploring reputable watch blogs, magazines, and forums such as:

• Hodinkee: A leading online watch magazine. Hodinkee
• WatchTime: A prominent watch magazine and website. WatchTime
• Worn & Wound: A popular watch blog focused on affordable and accessible watches. Worn & Wound
• Fratello Watches: A well-regarded watch blog with in-depth reviews and articles. Fratello Watches
• Watchuseek Forums: A large online forum community for watch enthusiasts. Watchuseek Forums