A quartz watch is a specific type of timepiece that is powered by batteries instead of the usual mechanical mainspring mechanism. To this day, there really is no consensus as to whether quartz watches are superior to mechanical pieces, or vice versa. It generally depends on your personal preference, since both quartz and mechanical watches have their fair share of pros and cons.
With all that being said, today we will take a look at some of the best quartz watches out there.
Quartz Watches: Selling Points
Before delving into the list proper, let us first discuss some of the biggest benefits you can get from a quartz watch.
- More Affordable. It is a well-known fact among the watchmaking community that quartz pieces come at a lower cost compared to mechanical watches. The reason for this is because the manufacturing process for quartz watches is less extensive, which means lower expenditures in terms of labor and materials. That being said, it should be noted that even though it is more affordable, the quality of quartz watches is often on par with its mechanical counterparts.
- More Accurate. In order to work consistently, mechanical timepieces need some form of winding, whether manual or automatic. Meanwhile, quartz watches are almost completely reliant on batteries, which means there is little human involvement. This allows the quartz watch to consistently and accurately function on its own until the battery runs out.
- Low Maintenance. Unlike mechanical timepieces that need to be serviced consistently, quartz watches only require battery changes every couple of years. Even then, there are a lot of watch repair shops out there that can do the job in a couple of minutes. In addition, if you are competent when it comes to DIY activities, you can also easily attempt to switch out the batteries of your quartz watch on your own.
25 Best Quartz Watches
Here’s a list of some of the best quartz watches available in the market right now.
1. Hamilton American Classic PSR Quartz
Let us start off our list with a piece from Hamilton, which is a brand that played a big role in the quartz revolution. In fact, the American Classic PSR Quartz is a modern-day reincarnation of the first–ever digital watch, the Pulsar, from the 1970s.
This Hamilton American Classic piece is presented in a stainless steel case and a bracelet made of the same material. The dial follows a digital display, with red Arabic numerals on a black background. This watch is driven by a quartz movement and boasts a water resistance rating of 100 meters.
Retailing at around $815 USD, this quartz watch is perfect for those who like retro-inspired digital pieces.
2. Timex Navi Harbor 38mm
Next, we have the Timex Navi Harbor, which boasts a casual and retro vibe perfect for your everyday routines. It belongs under the brand’s Navi collection, making it a military-inspired outdoor watch.
This model is presented in a 38mm stainless steel case paired with a nylon strap in army green. It also has a bi-directional rotating bezel which makes it extra functional. Meanwhile, the black dial features luminescent hands, hour markers in various geometric shapes, and a 24-hour time display. Lastly, this watch is powered by a quartz movement and boasts a water resistance rating of 100 meters.
With a price tag of approximately $140 USD, this model is ideal for those who want a low-key yet reliable quartz watch.
3. Instrmt T42 Gold
Moving on, the next quartz watch is all about sophistication and minimalism. The Instrmt T42 Gold’s overall aesthetic is heavily inspired by industrial design codes from the previous century.
For example, this particular model comes in a 40mm stainless steel case paired with a vegan tan leather strap. Its black dial follows a modest layout with only the essential elements present, like the thin hands and indices, small Arabic numerals, and a compact date window. Lastly, it is equipped with the Swiss Ronda 585, which is a very popular quartz movement, and has a 50-meter water resistance capacity.
Priced at around $257 USD, this is a great and affordable quartz watch for minimalist enthusiasts.
4. TAG Heuer Formula 1 Ref. WAZ101A.FC8305
This TAG Heuer Formula 1 watch screams sporty, retro, and fun all at the same time. It is based on previous Formula 1 models from the 80s and 90s.
This piece is presented in a 43mm stainless steel case paired with a comfortable nylon strap in black. It also has a black rotating bezel that goes really well with the vibrant orange watch face. The dial consists of luminescent hands, rectangular indices, and a date window at 3 o’clock. Lastly, in terms of its technical specifications, this TAG Heuer watch is powered by a quartz movement and has a whopping 200-meter water resistance capacity.
If you enjoy sporty and stylish timepieces, then you can get this quartz watch for around $1,450 USD.
5. Omega Speedmaster Skywalker X-33 Chronograph
The Omega Speedmaster Skywalker X-33 Chronograph is a very futuristic and distinct-looking quartz watch. Designed to explore the galaxy, its overall design is bound to give you space and exploration vibes.
This Omega Speedmaster model is presented in a 45mm lightweight titanium case and bracelet with a rotating bezel. Its black dial follows both a digital and analog layout with luminescent hands, hour markers, and an LCD display.
Equipped with the OMEGA quartz caliber 5619, this quartz watch comes with many features including a chronograph display, alarms, a time zone function, and a perpetual calendar. With a 24-month battery life, its quartz movement has been tested and is recognized by the European Space Agency.
For a little over $6,000 USD, you can get this advanced and eccentric quartz piece!
6. Tissot PRC 200 Chronograph
Up next, we have the Tissot PRC 200 Chronograph, which is a quartz watch that revolves around high-performance and versatility. This model comes in a 42mm stainless steel case and bracelet. Its busy black dial features luminescent hands and hour markers, a date window, and a chronograph display with 3 sub-dials. Following a quartz movement, this Tissot piece is equipped with a Renata 394 caliber and an impressive water resistance rating of 200 meters.
Retailing at around $500 USD, this is a great quartz watch that will surely prove to be a reliable companion.
7. Longines Les Grandes Classiques L47436320
The Longines Les Grandes Classiques quartz watch boasts quintessential and vintage aesthetics. Its overall design is made up of antique-inspired elements for all the classy ladies out there.
This Longines Les Grandes Classiques watch comes in a 33.5mm 18K yellow gold case paired with an elegant alligator leather strap in black. The dial, which boasts a rustic gold color, consists of slim hands, applied indices, and a date window at 3 o’clock. Lastly, it is driven by a L156 quartz movement with a 30-meter water resistance rating.
If you are looking for a classic and quaint timepiece, you can get this quartz watch for around $1,700 USD!
8. Baume et Mercier Classima 10323
Here we have another classic and straightforward quartz watch in the form of the Baume et Mercier Classima 10323. This Baume et Mercier Classima quartz watch has a more contemporary and elegant design. It comes in a 40mm steel case and a calfskin leather strap in black. Its white dial features rhodium-plated hands, classy Roman numerals, and a rectangular date display. In addition, it is equipped with a Swiss-made quartz movement and has a 50-meter water resistance rating.
With a price tag of approximately $990 USD, this is the ideal timepiece for men who like sleek, sophisticated, and stylish quartz watches.
9. Cartier Santos De Cartier Ref. W2SA0011
The Cartier Santos De Cartier is the perfect representation of charming and luxurious. It is a well-known piece that is loved by many thanks to its refined and distinct aesthetics.
This Cartier model is presented in a 43.5mm x 31.4mm steel case with a unique square shape. This is paired with an 18K rose gold bezel and an alligator leather strap in black. Its silver dial, which has a satin-brushed sunray finish, simply consists of blue hands and large Roman numerals. Lastly, it is powered by a top-notch quartz movement and has a 30-meter water resistance rating.
If you are looking for a lavish and renowned watch, you can get your hands on this quartz piece for around $5,900 USD.
10. Sinn Uhren Model UX
Next, we have the Sinn Uhren Model UX, which is all about functionality and durability. When it comes to the aesthetics, this Sinn Diving watch has a rather simple layout that is made up of incredibly striking elements.
For example, this Sinn watch is presented in a 44mm German submarine steel case and bracelet with a unique captive bezel. The black dial includes bold luminescent hands, rectangular hour markers, a date window, and vibrant red accents.
Beneath the straightforward exterior of this watch is an impressive mechanism that boasts a multitude of features. Powered by an ETA 955.652 quartz movement, this model has a stunning water resistance capacity of up to 5,000 meters, HYDRO technology for superior readability, and temperature-resistant functions as well.
Retailing at approximately $2,263 USD, this is the perfect quartz watch for those who want an extremely reliable piece to bring on all your adventures.
11. Orient Quartz Classic Ref. RA-KA0003S
Here we have the Orient Quartz Classic which perfectly combines functionality with vintage aesthetics. Its overall design is bound to give you vintage vibes thanks to its quaint color combination and dial elements.
This Orient model comes in a gold-plated stainless steel case paired with a classy crocodile leather strap. The silver dial consists of elegant leaf hands, Roman numerals, date-day counters, and a gorgeous day/night indicator. Lastly, it is powered by a Japan-made quartz movement and has a water resistance capacity of up to 50 meters.
If you want an artistic and retro-inspired quartz watch, you can get this for only $250 USD!
12. Maurice Lacroix Aikon Chronograph Ref. AI1018-PVB01-337-1
This Maurice Lacroix Aikon Chronograph serves as a very stylish and sporty-looking quartz watch. It has a mostly monochromatic color palette with hints of blue to bring out that cool masculine vibe.
This Maurice Lacroix Aikon model is presented in a 44mm PVD case and leather strap, both of which come in black. The dial, boasting a sunray pattern, features luminescent hands, slim double indices, a date window at 6 o’clock, and a chronograph display. Lastly, it has a 100-meter water resistance rating and is equipped with a quartz movement that boasts chronometric precision.
Priced at approximately $1,500 USD, this is a great quartz watch for those who live an active and rugged lifestyle.
13. Alpina Startimer Pilot Ref. AL-240B4FBS6
The Alpina Startimer Pilot Quartz is all about straightforwardness. Rather than going for a complicated layout, this quartz model showcases only essential elements, which allows for excellent readability.
This Alpina Startimer watch comes in a 42mm stainless steel case paired with a nylon strap in gray. The black dial consists of luminescent hands, Arabic numerals, minute indices, and a date window. Moreover, it is driven by a precise quartz movement and has a 100-meter water resistance rating.
In terms of minimalistic quartz watches, it will not get much better than this. You can get this Alpina quartz watch for only $650 USD!
14. Seiko Prospex SNJ029P1
Next up, we have a robust and intimidating quartz watch in the form of the Seiko Prospex SNJ029P1. Everything about this model, from the design to the functions, screams powerful, rugged, and distinct.
This Seiko Prospex watch comes in a sizable 47.8mm stainless steel case paired with a rotating bezel and a silicon strap in brown. The dial consists of luminescent hands and stout hour markers, a 24-hour layout, and an LCD window. Lastly, it is powered by an H851 caliber, which is an eco-drive quartz movement that can run on solar energy.
With a price tag of around $530 USD, you should not miss out on this if you want a sustainable and reliable quartz watch!
15. Grand Seiko Heritage SBGN011
Taking the 15th spot on our list is the Grand Seiko Heritage SBGN011. Unlike the previous model, this Grand Seiko watch has a more classic, elegant, and sophisticated overall design.
This quartz watch is presented in a 40mm stainless steel case paired with a bracelet made of the same material. The luxurious champagne dial features silver dauphine hands, rectangular indices, Arabic numerals, a date window, and a GMT layout. Moreover, it is powered by the brand’s iconic 9F86 quartz movement and boasts a water resistance rating of 100 meters.
Priced at around $3,149 USD, this is the perfect quartz watch for all the lavish jetsetters out there.
16. Luminox Original Navy Seal 3000
Moving on, the Luminox Original Navy Seal 3000 has a very sturdy and powerful exterior. It boasts a fairly monochromatic design that goes really well with its overall ruggedness.
This Luminox model comes in a 43mm polycarbonate case paired with a rotating bezel and a rubber strap in black. The black dial features luminescent hands and hour markers, Arabic numerals, a date window, and a 24-hour layout. In addition, it is driven by a Swiss quartz movement with a whopping 200-meter water resistance rating.
Retailing at a little under $400 USD, this is a robust and tough quartz watch that is perfect for all the hardy adventurers out there.
17. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
Next up, we have one of the most well-known quartz watches in existence, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. This watch is known to boast one of the most popular designs in watchmaking history. It has a very distinct exterior that is characterized by its iconic octagonal bezel.
This Audemars Piguet model comes in a 33mm stainless steel case along with a bracelet of the same material. The black dial, featuring a Tapisserie pattern, consists of luminescent hands and indices, plus a date window at 3 o’clock. It is equipped with the AP Caliber 2713, which is a quartz movement and has a 50-meter water resistance rating.
If you do not mind shelling out $23,579 USD, then don’t miss out on getting this iconic quartz watch!
18. Longines Presence L47904112
Here we have the Longines Presence L47904112, which is another quartz watch with a classic aesthetic. While there really is nothing too flamboyant about this design, its simplicity and straightforwardness make it appealing to many.
This model is presented in a 38.5mm stainless steel case with an alligator leather strap in black. Its white dial consists of thin hands, slim Roman numerals, and a date window at 3 o’clock. In addition, it is powered by an L157 quartz caliber and has a decent water resistance capacity of up to 30 meters.
Priced at around $850 USD, this makes for a quintessential and stylish quartz watch!
19. TAG Heuer Aquaracer Ref. WBD1325.BB0320
The next model on our list is from one of the most recognized diving collections out there. The TAG Heuer Aquaracer Ref. WBD1325.BB0320 is the perfect blend of luxurious and sporty for all the active people out there.
This TAG Heuer Aquaracer watch comes in a 32mm stainless steel case paired with a gold-plated bezel and a plated bico bracelet. Boasting a textured sunray-brushed finish, the blue dial features luminous hands and hour markers, along with a date window. Lastly, it is equipped with a quartz movement and has a substantial water resistance rating 300 meters.
If you want a classy and stylish quartz watch, you can get this piece for around $3,000 USD.
20. Bulova 96C125
Next up, we have the Bulova 96C125, which has a rather stylish and contemporary overall design. The royal blue color of the watch face is what draws people into this stunning quartz watch.
This Bulova piece comes in a 39mm stainless steel case with a bracelet made of the same material. Meanwhile, the deep blue dial consists of luminous hands, silver-tone indices, a date window, and an elongated day display at the 12 o’clock position. When it comes to the technical details, this watch is driven by a quartz movement with a 30-meter water resistance rating.
Be sure not to miss out on this $300 USD quartz watch if you prefer elegant, dressy aesthetics!
21. Briston Clubmaster Classic Gun Steel
Now that we are down to our last 5, we have the Briston Clubmaster Classic in all its rugged glory. This is one of the more distinct quartz watches in the market, especially with its unusual square-shaped case. Its overall aesthetic screams robust, powerful and distinct.
This Briston model comes in a sandblasted stainless steel case paired with a vintage leather strap in grey. The dial follows a straightforward layout with luminous hands, Arabic numerals, a date window at 6 o’clock, and a chronograph display with 2 counters. Lastly, it is equipped with the Miyota OS21 quartz movement and has a 100-meter water resistance rating.
Retailing at a little under $400 USD, this quartz watch makes for a reliable everyday companion!
22. Hugo Boss Ambassador HB1513041
Next up, we have the Hugo Boss Ambassador HB1513041, which is a distinct watch with vintage-inspired aesthetics. Its design is a lovely mix of classic and modern, making it a great versatile accessory.
This Hugo Boss model comes in a 43mm stainless steel case paired with a leather strap in brown. The dark grey dial features a disc-like design, luminescent hands, exquisite rose gold Roman numerals, and a date window at 6 o’clock. This watch is driven by a three-hand quartz movement and has a water resistance capacity of 30 meters.
If you are interested, you can get this stylish quartz timepiece for around $185 USD!
23. Hermes Heure H HH1.110
The Hermes Heure H HH1.110 is a dainty and unique-looking piece for all the ladies out there. Everything about it screams Hermes, which makes it especially appealing to patrons of the said brand. Ladies who are looking for nice quartz watches to bring to their next dinner party should definitely consider this piece.
This Hermes watch comes in the brand’s iconic H-shaped stainless steel case, paired with a tan leather strap in brown. Following a straightforward layout, the white dial simply consists of sword-shaped hands and squared Arabic numerals. Lastly, it is equipped with a quartz movement that boasts excellent precision.
For a little over $2,000 USD, you can get your hands on this distinct quartz watch!
24. Hublot Classic Fusion 581.NX.1171.RX
Next, we have the Hublot Classic Fusion 581.NX.1171.RX which boasts a sleek and sophisticated exterior. Its dark color palette along with the unique bezel design makes this quite a subtle yet highly recognizable model.
This Hublot Classic Fusion piece comes in a 33mm titanium case paired with a comfortable rubber strap in black. The matte dial features rhodium-plated hands and thick indices, and a date window at 3 o’clock. Its polished silver bezel features six screws, giving it a very technical image. Aside from its classy exterior, this model also boasts a well-crafted Hublot quartz Caliber HUB2912 and 50-meter water resistance rating.
If you want a sharp and distinct quartz piece to accompany you on your daily routines, you can get this for around $5,700 USD!
25. Hamilton Ventura Chronograph H24432751
Last but not the least, we have the Hamilton Ventura Chronograph H24432751, which is a rather eccentric-looking piece. This Hamilton piece is perfect for those who want quartz watches that are avant-garde and out of the ordinary.
This Hamilton Ventura watch comes in a unique triangular stainless steel case paired with a calfskin leather strap in black. The white dial consists of dauphine hands, slim indices, a date window, and a chronograph display with 3 sub-counters. In addition, it is driven by a quartz ETA Caliber 251.474 and boasts a water resistance capacity of up to 50 meters.
If you are looking for a stylish yet unconventional timepiece, you can check this out for approximately $1,139 USD!
Final Thoughts
All these timepieces listed above simply prove that the watchmaking industry is full of well-crafted quartz watches. It also shows that you do not have to break the bank or shell out thousands just to get reliable and accurate quartz watches because there are lots of great options out there. Ultimately, this list serves as a mere glimpse at what the market has to offer. Rest assured you will find the perfect quartz piece for you in no time!
If this got you curious about mechanical timepieces, check out our article on the 25 Best Automatic Watches.
Photo Credits: WatchShopping and Brand Websites
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