Finding a good summer watch for around $100 is easier than finding a good dress watch for less than $100… but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. While looking for a timepiece that’s less stuffy, built to be knocked around, and able to withstand poolside splashing, you’re going to encounter a lot of junk. Skip the struggle and go with one of these affordable summer watches, each of which gets our stamp of approval.
MWC G10 Military Watch
If you’re looking for a watch you’ll almost never have to take off, look no further than options from the company that supplies watches for the military, police and antiterrorist units. This MWC G10 Military Watch has an 18mm military webbing strap, screw down caseback, 35mm case and 50m water resistance.
$85
Komono Winston Watch
Between the 41mm face, the brushed silver case, the 4 o’clock crown and the contrasting rich blue face and brown leather, everything about the Komono Winston Watch in Blue Cognac is a little bit different than what we’re used to in a watch, which is why it’s perfect for the summer. It pairs with chinos, tees, denim, shorts and everything else you’re going to be wearing the next few months.
$90
Nixon Time Teller Digi Camo
Nixon’s new Time Teller Digi Camo is the perfect summer watch for those of you that want something a little more casual on your wrist. The display is ridiculously easy to read and includes 12/24hr format, month / day / date and an auto calendar. The silicone band might make your wrist a little hotter, but it also won’t get sweaty or suck up spilled beer or condiments.
$80
Timex Weekender Cordura Ripstop
When a watch is designed for the military, police forces, and antiterrorist units, you can rest assured it can handle any idiotic stunts you pull this summer. Relaxed but rugged, the G10 Military Watch and its olive NATO strap compliment the casual look of the warmer months. It looks just as good paired with a bathing suit as it does with some chinos and a white polo.
$50
Seiko 5 Automatic
If you don’t own what we like to call the “entry level automatic” from Seiko, you need consider the 21-jewel option for your summer time piece. It’s a little on the small side at 37mm, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in precision, style and affordability.
$53
Cheapo Harold Nylon Watch
Don’t let the brand name fool you, this analog watch from Sweden-based Cheapo is everything you need for a fun, simple and durable alternative to your other nylon strap watches. The stainless case and band are also slightly larger than your standard Weekender at 42mm and 25mm, respectively.
$80
Fossil Wakefield FS5054
The face of this watch looks very similar to the “Pepsi dial” from a much more expensive watch, but since this is a Fossil you get the look without the auction house price tag. It’s simple, clean, functional, water resistant and has a perforated leather band to let your skin breathe.
$87
Electric ED01 T Nato
This Electric watch has everything from simple tide and tide prediction to moon phase and countdown/heat time. It’s easily the most complicated watch on the list, but you wouldn’t know that just from looking at the G-Shock style design cues. The polyester NATO style band with a Velcro closure also makes it easy to take on and off when you’re spending time in the surf.
$100
