The majority of serious watch enthusiasts and collectors take into account the place where the timepiece was made when it comes to watches, in addition to the movement utilized, style, display, power source, and functionality. Watches produced in Switzerland are a highly popular option.
Switzerland has a long watchmaking history, and the sector is heavily controlled. Swiss timepieces, regardless of brand, are known for their superior quality. Utilizing the Swiss-Made badge is subject to tight guidelines. Since most luxury watch companies have origins in Switzerland, most Swiss watch brands are likewise considered quite costly. Swiss watches are renowned for their precision, craftsmanship, and quality.
Everybody agrees that Swiss timepieces are among the finest, although many top brands are expensive. But you’re still in luck if you’re seeking something reasonably priced to add to your collection. The ultra-wealthy and celebrities who wear Swiss timepieces are often associated with names like Patek Philippe or Audemars Piguet. However, there is good news if you want to own a real Swiss watch without spending a fortune. This article will provide you with a selection of affordable Swiss watch brands. We’ve also included a brief synopsis of each brand.
12 Affordable Swiss Watch Brands
Swatch
From dress watches to sports watches, there’s a wide variety of affordable Swiss watches to choose from to suit your personal style and needs. Swatch is one of the popular Swiss watch brands in the world. Swatch was founded in 1983 by Nicholas Hayek in Switzerland. Nicolas Hayek served as CEO and Chairman of the board from the 1980s to 2010. In the 1970s, the Japanese watchmaking industry was thriving due to the production of affordable and new technology watches. Therefore, to save the Swiss watchmaking industry, which was still focusing on expensive mechanical watches and suffering loss, this company came into being and made Quartz watches.
When the world was seeking something fresh and vivid, Swatch created its brand. Instead of going the way of premium materials and movements, they initially concentrated on the aesthetics of their watches. They were appealing to everyone interested in fashion. Still, they were searching for reasonably priced variety and were more relaxed about time gain or loss or which movement was taking their time. They were able to keep their prices reasonably low because they concentrated more on the aesthetic aspect of watchmaking and were able to avoid complex assembly.
Swatch is a reasonably priced Swiss watch company with distinctive designs you won’t find anywhere else. Although Swatch has added variety, there are timepieces for all tastes, so you will be included even if you don’t have a particular interest in art. Swatch created a network of dependable watch enthusiasts dedicated to their brand as Swatch Club members, which grants exclusivity to owners of their recognizable watches.
Swatch ONCE AGAIN Unisex Watch
The Swatch ONCE AGAIN Unisex Watch (Model: GB743) is a testament to the timeless elegance of simplicity. With a round dial and analog display, this piece exudes a classic charm that transcends fleeting fashion trends. Encased in a 34mm plastic case, the watch’s white dial stands out against the black band. This bold contrast enhances readability and adds a touch of sophistication. Its buckle clasp ensures secure and comfortable wear throughout the day.
Despite its lightweight design – weighing just 17.01 grams, the watch is remarkably durable. The plastic case and band offer excellent resilience against everyday wear and tear. Plus, it’s water-resistant up to 100 feet, offering added protection against accidental splashes or brief immersion in water. The watch also features a day-date calendar function, adding to its utility. Powered by quartz movement, it ensures accurate timekeeping, making it a reliable companion for your daily schedule.
Victorinox
Over the last 10 years, Victorinox, previously renowned for producing Swiss Army Knives that many of us keep hidden away in a drawer at home, has transformed its reputation to produce dependable, high-quality watches and travel accessories. They provide a range of watches, including more conventional diving and dress watches and incredibly simple and minimalist designs. Under the INOX name, they also manufacture a series of almost indestructible watches. Victorinox used their unusual testing in their watch commercials since it was so extreme. . Additionally, Victorinox makes various moderately priced Swiss automatic watches and premium quartz watches. They also have several standouts, tested models in their INOX range, such as their eye-catching diving watch with a white face.
Due to their beautiful yet affordable assortment of watches, Tissot is one of your best options if you want a trendy watch without going broke. The first Swiss watch company, Tissot, has been in business since 1853 and is based in Le Locle, the center of the nation’s watch industry.
Victorinox Swiss Army Men’s Original Swiss Quartz Watch
The Victorinox Swiss Army Men’s Original Swiss Quartz Watch with Nylon Strap encapsulates the perfect blend of durability and style. Its round dial and analog display offer a timeless look, while the beige color on the dial and band renders a fashionable edge. The watch’s 40mm resin case is sturdy, promising longevity, and the mineral dial window ensures scratch resistance. Paired with a buckle clasp, the nylon strap offers a comfortable fit, making it a wearable choice for everyday use.
Weighing a mere 1.74 ounces, this lightweight timepiece ensures comfortable wear all day long. The watch’s Swiss Quartz movement guarantees precise timekeeping, essential for the modern man on the go. With water resistance up to 330 feet, this watch is suitable for recreational swimming and snorkeling. The timepiece stands out with its special features, including a chronograph, luminous markers, and a second hand. Additionally, the date calendar adds a practical touch to its aesthetics.
Tissot
Tissot is well-known for its fashionable but affordable Swiss watches, and it creates a variety of styles, from the simple clock to the more complex and sporty white face with silver indications. Whichever you select, they are the sorts of watches with a beautiful appearance without being too costly. Since the firm has been around for so long and is well-known, many different types of watches are available; still, you will almost surely find one you like. The Swiss-made timepieces successfully balance excellent quality and affordability. Although it is unclear where their inspiration comes from, the design team is experimenting with different ideas. Being a part of The Swatch Group reduces production costs and ensures that getting a pricey timepiece won’t make you less appreciative of excellent art. The most costly automatic motions are more expensive, but if you’re looking for something more affordable, the less expensive movements are still reliable.
Tissot Mens Ballade COSC 316L Stainless Steel case Swiss Automatic Watch
The Tissot Men’s Ballade COSC 316L Stainless Steel case Swiss Automatic Watch (T1084081605700) is a stunning timepiece that exudes class and sophistication. Its round shape and analog display showcase a timeless elegance, making it the ideal accessory for any formal occasion.
Protected by a synthetic sapphire dial window, this watch resists scratches, ensuring a crystal-clear view of the black dial. The 41mm stainless steel case offers durability, while the push-button deployment clasp on the black leather band ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
The watch is powered by a Swiss Automatic movement, providing exceptional timekeeping precision. The timepiece also boasts a date calendar function, adding practicality to its stylish design. Weighing 2.75 ounces, this Tissot watch is comfortable for everyday wear. Its water resistance up to 165 feet makes it suitable for short periods of recreational swimming, although not ideal for diving or snorkeling.
Alpina
Like many well-known Swiss watch manufacturers, Alpina has been around for the whole time. All of their watches benefit from the innovation that begins in their studio. Air Force pilots, divers, members of the military, the navy, and mountaineers, sometimes known as alpinists, have long preferred Alpina watches. Due to their unwavering commitment to development and innovation, the Alpina movement has earned a reputation for dependability. The Alpina watches were designed with the four qualities of a trustworthy sports watch in mind: they should all be antimagnetic, anti-shock, water-resistant, and built of stainless steel to ensure that their longevity and dependability are never compromised.
Alpina Men’s Alpiner Stainless Steel Swiss 3-Hand Date Quartz watch
The Alpina Men’s Alpiner Stainless Steel Swiss 3-Hand Date Quartz Watch is an embodiment of fine craftsmanship and contemporary design. With a 42mm stainless steel case and analog display, it perfectly balances robustness and style.
The timepiece’s sapphire crystal dial window resists scratches, preserving the watch’s pristine look. The blue dial provides a beautiful contrast against the silver stainless steel band, creating an aesthetic that’s both eye-catching and classy.
The watch features a push-button deployment clasp for secure fit and easy wearability. It’s powered by Swiss Quartz movement, ensuring reliable and accurate timekeeping. An added date calendar function and chronograph enhance its functional appeal.
Weighing on the heavier side, this Alpina watch still offers comfortable wear due to its well-balanced design. With water resistance up to 330 feet, it’s well-suited for water-related activities like swimming and snorkeling.
Hamilton
Hamilton, an American watch business that had its beginnings in Pennsylvania, through several changes before joining the Swatch Group. With such a conglomerate behind it, Hamilton is now formally recognized as a Swiss brand, with its headquarters in Bienne, Switzerland, and its watches outfitted with Swiss ETA automatic movements. Since Hamilton is merely a mid-priced brand and is an associate of the Swatch Group, it is seen as being at the lower end, particularly when compared to other Swiss brands like Longines, Omega, and Glashutte Original.
Despite this, Hamilton is well acclaimed and acknowledged by watch enthusiasts for its exceptional quality, even at very low prices. Its timeless appearance, influenced by the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s, is well-liked. Hamilton has recently looked into athletic and contemporary designs to offer its customers more options.
Hamilton Men’s H70555533 Khaki Field Stainless Steel Automatic Watch
The Hamilton Men’s H70555533 Khaki Field Stainless Steel Automatic Watch with Brown Leather Band exudes a timeless charm. With its round shape, analog display, and a 42mm stainless steel case, it offers a classic look with a robust finish. The sapphire crystal dial window provides scratch resistance, ensuring the watch retains its pristine look over time. The black dial contrasts beautifully with the brown leather band, creating a refined aesthetic suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
This Hamilton watch is fitted with a buckle clasp for a secure fit. It is powered by an automatic movement, offering reliable and accurate timekeeping. The added date calendar function adds to its practicality. Weighing 14.08 ounces, the watch has a solid feel, and its water resistance up to 330 feet makes it suitable for swimming and snorkeling.
Glycine
In the 1950s, Glycine, a company located in Bienne since 1914, had great favor with both commercial and military pilots. Although Glycine is undoubtedly a niche product in the general market, it is a sign of high-quality timepieces if a watch company can claim that the military and pilots are among its customers. Although a vintage Airman may sometimes appear in a Sotheby’s or Christie’s catalog, Glycine isn’t particularly sought by the high-end watch-collecting community. A loyal following includes brand supporters and those who expressly collect pilot watches.
Even if you don’t fit these descriptions, you should consider Glycine if you’re searching for an exclusive, high-end Swiss watch that few others own. In 1953, the first Airman watch debuted and quickly rose to prominence. During the Vietnam War, Air Force pilots carried this dependable watch. Although they produced a reissue of the original in 2014, Glycine never ceased producing the Airman line.
Combat Mens Analog Automatic Watch
The Combat Men’s Analog Automatic Watch with Silicone Bracelet showcases a blend of robustness and practicality. Its 34mm plastic case and round analog display are encased in a plastic dial window, making it a tough yet stylish choice. The watch’s white dial contrasts with the black silicone band, offering a clear and readable display. The buckle clasp ensures a secure and comfortable fit, while the quartz movement guarantees precise timekeeping. Weighing a mere 17.01 grams, this lightweight watch promises all-day comfort. The day-date calendar function adds practicality, and its water resistance up to 100 feet provides protection against accidental splashes.
Certina
Certina is well-known for its watches with a racing theme but with one significant price difference. Watches from Certina are extremely reasonably priced without sacrificing quality. They have a long history since they have been in the watch business since 1888. The fact that Certina is an accessible premium watch brand with a larger audience is also beneficial. Since 1983, it has been a member of The Swatch Group and collaborates with several other brands for sporting events all over the globe. You’ll likely see their name often at motor racing events since they are heavily associated with them and have mostly sports watch-focused collections. Due to this and a lack of marketing emphasis, they are less well-known outside of Europe, but their watches are excellent and reasonably priced. They vary in price from $100 to $500 and have superb artistry, making them a great option for any admirer of inexpensive watches.
Certina Men’s C0074101105100 DS Blue Ribbon 43mm Black Dial SS Watch
The Certina Men’s C0074101105100 DS Blue Ribbon Black Dial SS Watch is a true testament to elegant design and precision. Its 43mm case and analog display are protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal dial window, giving the timepiece a robust yet sophisticated appeal.
The watch’s black dial pairs beautifully with the silver-tone stainless steel band, providing a stylish contrast. The fold-over deployment clasp ensures a secure fit, while the quartz movement offers reliable timekeeping.
Weighing more due to its stainless steel construction, this Certina watch is still comfortable to wear. The date feature adds practicality to its functionality, and with water resistance up to 300 meters, it’s suitable for professional marine activities and serious surface water sports.
Torgoen
Despite living as a comparative newcomer to the market and needing the legacy and heritage of companies like Tissot and Hamilton, Torgoen is nonetheless a name to pay attention to. They are a US-based business started by two pilots with 20 years of watchmaking expertise. They chose to produce their timepieces there and employ Swiss movements in them. They are hence “Swiss Made”. Their primary focus is on watches in the Aviator style, which have simple, stylish faces uncommon in modern timepieces. So, Torgeon’s fashion sense makes them stick out to many people, including Richard Branson.
Torgoen T9 Matte Blue GMT Pilot Watch
The Torgoen T9 Matte Blue GMT Pilot Watch for Men brings the best of Swiss craftsmanship and aviation-inspired design. With a 42mm stainless steel case and analog display, this watch captures a rugged yet sophisticated look.
The mineral crystal dial window is sturdy, and the blue dial offers a stunning contrast to the brown leather band, adding a touch of elegance. The watch’s buckle clasp ensures a secure fit, and its Swiss Quartz movement guarantees accurate timekeeping.
Weighing comfortably, the Torgoen watch is easy to wear for extended periods. The date calendar function and luminous features enhance its practical appeal. Plus, its water resistance up to 100 meters makes it suitable for swimming and snorkeling.
TAGS HEURE
Tag Heuer is the most well-known name on our list and one of the first to spring to mind when Swiss watches are discussed. You will notice the brand Tag Heuer at athletic events worldwide because of the company’s origins in sports, which have permeated into its contemporary watches. Their precision in keeping time was a distinguishing characteristic in the early 19th century, and their timepieces continue to be among the finest in the industry.
The major design inspiration came from racing, and each element was intended to endure repeated, demanding usage. However, there are premium pieces in the Tag Heuer line that wouldn’t necessarily be considered reasonable. A substantial selection of reasonably priced items is accessible. Even entry-level Tag watches are an investment in a company that cares about your desire for luxury and practical utility.
Tag Heuer Men’s ‘Formula 1’ Swiss Quartz Stainless Steel Dress Watch
The TAG Heuer Men’s ‘Formula 1’ Swiss Quartz Stainless Steel Dress Watch embodies a blend of sporty elegance and Swiss precision. Its 43mm stainless steel case houses an analog display, protected by a resilient sapphire crystal dial window for scratch resistance.
The watch’s black dial pairs elegantly with the silver stainless steel band, creating a versatile aesthetic that suits any occasion. The fold-over clasp with safety ensures a secure fit, and its Swiss Quartz movement ensures accurate timekeeping.
Weighing 16 ounces, this timepiece has a substantial feel on the wrist. The date calendar function and tachymeter bezel add practicality to its sporty appeal, and with a water resistance of 660 feet, it’s suitable for recreational scuba diving.
Oris
Oris has become a well-known watch industry brand from modest origins in a tiny village. Even if they operate in four other spaces, their most notable action was arguably the 1930s creation of the huge crown for pilots. Oris expanded into alarm clocks to assure survival during low exports in the 1940s, demonstrating the flexibility they still exhibit today. Their daring character entails significant danger and huge profit, earning them praise and even a prize for the best accuracy. You may anticipate more of their unique sliding sled watch strap, the first. While you can change a band quickly, there is a wide variety of leather strap components and stainless steel bracelets. The watchmakers complement the pieces with bands they think are best suited. You will be hard-pressed to leave their collection empty-handed since they are still active in the maritime, racing, and aviation industries.
Oris Men’s ‘Divers65’ Swiss Automatic Stainless Steel and Canvas Casual Watch
The Oris Men’s ‘Divers65’ Swiss Automatic Watch elegantly combines retro styling with modern watchmaking precision. Encased in a 40mm stainless steel case, its analog display is protected by a sapphire crystal dial window, offering excellent resistance to scratches.
The watch’s black dial creates a stunning contrast with the beige canvas band, exuding a vintage, casual appeal. The buckle clasp provides a secure fit, while the Swiss Automatic movement ensures reliable and accurate timekeeping.
Weighing 16 ounces, this watch is comfortable for all-day wear. The date calendar function and unidirectional bezel add to its functionality, and its water resistance of 330 feet makes it suitable for swimming and snorkeling.
Movado
The firm was once known as LAI Ditescheim & Freres SA in 1881, and it was ultimately given a new name in 1983 after being acquired by an American business. Despite this, Movado watches are still authentically created in Switzerland thanks to its Swiss production facilities. On the other hand, the company’s main office is in New Jersey.
Movado may be regarded as something other than high-end like the other companies on our list. Still, its goods are of the highest caliber, and its distinctive designs, beginning with its emblem, have drawn the attention of various watch fans and collectors. After that, if you’re considering buying a Movado watch, the Movado Museum Watch may be one of its most well-known designs since its introduction in 1947. Its inclusion at the Museum of Modern Art in New York is what gave it its moniker since it was so noteworthy.
Movado Women’s 604759 Amorosa Stainless Steel Bangle Watch
The Movado Women’s 604759 Amorosa Stainless Steel Bangle Watch radiates understated elegance and simplicity. The 24mm stainless steel case houses an analog display, shielded by a durable sapphire crystal dial window. The watch’s iconic black dial complements the silver stainless steel band beautifully, embodying Movado’s minimalist aesthetic. The jewelry clasp ensures a secure fit, while the Swiss Quartz movement provides accurate timekeeping. Despite its delicate appearance, this watch has a substantial weight of 1 pound. Its water resistance up to 99 feet makes it resistant to splashes or brief immersion in water.
Mido
The popularity of Mido watches around the world is probably attributable to their understated refinement. Their timepieces are often well-constructed rather than crammed with overtly eye-catching features. Because Mido Mido watches are designed with an architectural impact for motor enthusiasts, all their timepieces look beautiful. They first gained their reputation as a trailblazing company due to their cork-crown invention in the early 19th century, improving their watches’ water resistance. With easier access to technology, they have concentrated more on their design processes and created some exquisite premium pieces at an unusual price range in the luxury watch market.
The Mido watches have much to offer if dependability and vintage timepieces appeal to you. They often get high ratings on the COSC to watch the quality testing scale and have top-tier ETA movement mechanics. You may be confident that you will get a timepiece that will be useful for many years to come since the watch designs have a classic appearance.
Mido Men’s M026.430.11.041.00 Ocean Star Analog Automatic Blue / Silver Stainless Steel Watch
The Mido Men’s M026.430.11.041.00 Ocean Star Analog Automatic Watch is a striking fusion of robust design and Swiss precision. Encased in a 42.5mm stainless steel case, its analog display is accentuated by a rotating bezel. The blue dial is a captivating contrast to the silver stainless steel band, creating an aesthetic that works for both casual and formal occasions. The folding clasp with diving extension ensures a secure fit, while the Automatic Mido Caliber 80 movement guarantees accurate timekeeping. With a weight of 6.6 ounces, this timepiece is comfortable for all-day wear. The day-date calendar function and water resistance of 660 feet make it suitable for professional marine activity and serious surface water sports.
Conclusion
Here we conclude our review of most affordable swiss watch brands that you can easily find in the market. These brands have been around for nearly a century and still stay true to their heritage and make timepieces with new and innovative technology. Switzerland is a hub for all kinds of watches and has a strong industry that is still standing after centuries. You do not have to go high price; you can easily buy the best watches with modern technology at an affordable price. We even reviewed popular timepieces of every brand, which will surely be helpful for you.
