We carried out a lot of research on a large selection of budget-friendly watches and picked the Invicta 89280B as the best automatic watch under 300.
We recommend this unique timepiece because it has a high level of water resistance and elegant dial. The Invicta 89280B also boasts of luminous hands and markers that allow you to read the watch in low-light condition. It also comes with a durable stainless steel bracelet.
Best Automatic Watch under 300
Many people find automatic watches attractive as they bring more than basic timekeeping. Yes, it offers accuracy, elegance, water-resistance, and extra features. It also reduces the stress that comes with using battery-powered timepieces.
Unfortunately, most automatic watches might exceed the budget of the average consumer. As a result, you might have to manage with a cheap knockoff that will probably last for a short period.
The good news is that you can grab a high-quality timepiece for a budget as low as $300. Also, these affordable watches offer features that can rival most flagship timepieces on the market. Now, let’s reveal to you the best automatic watch under $300.
Orient Ray II
If you consider durability and elegance in an automatic watch, then the Orient Ray II is just the right option for you. This classic looking watch has been upgraded to rival many durable watches on the market. Also, it stands out as one of the best luminous watches due to its fantastic lume features on its indices.
Benefit
Easy to Read
Many might find it hard to read a watch in low light condition, but that’s quite different for Orient II. It has a classy blue dial which is well-designed for easy read off. The best part is that it offers luminous hands and markers, thus making it easy to read in low-light condition.
Magnified Calendar window
Unlike other watches, this watch does not only display the date, but it also shows the exact day of the week. Having said this, it an ideal watch for casual workers that needs a watch to enable them to plan the week. You can adjust the day and date by moving the crown clockwise and anti-clockwise, respectively.
Highly Waterproofed
Orient II is a decent dive watch with an attractive design that meets the need of pro-divers, casual workers, and other marine activities. From its case, bracelet, and to the watch face, it maintains a highly waterproofed standard that can withstand up to 200m underwater.
Robust Bezel
Unlike other timepieces on our list of the best automatic watch under 300, the orient II feature a more robust 120-click bezel. The bezel blends in a classy manner with the dial, thus adding a more appealing look to the watch.
Opinion and Drawbacks
Admittedly, this watch is no doubt attractive and made of high quality. However, one annoying part is that you have to unscrew the timepiece more often to wind and adjust the time. Another downside is that the rotating bezel and crown is very stiff, thus making it hard to operate.
Seiko SNZG15
Are you planning to invest in an automatic watch under $300? If this is the case, you should consider Seiko SNZG15. Even if it stands as simple and affordable timepiece, it sports a cutting edge design that complements your outfit for any big occasion.
Benefits
Classic Design
This men’s watch sports a design that fits most wrist sizes. It also has offered comfort and easy readability for regular use.
It’s boasts of Hardlex crystal that protect its dial from knocks or impact from elements such as stone. The glass is surrounded by a stationary bezel that offers added security.
A 42mm stainless steel case protects its internal parts while a 22mm nylon strap secures the timepiece to your wrist. Overall, the watch promises resistance against wear and tear that comes with repeated use.
Water Resistance
When it comes to the best automatic watch under 300, the Seiko SNZG15 can compete against flagship brands because of its water resistance rating. There is no need to take it off when you want to swim or snorkel because it is water-resistant to a depth of 100m. However, do not use this watch for scuba diving.
Simple Dial
Arabic numeral indices surround the black dial while luminous hands sweep on top of this setup. With such features, you can read the watch in either direct sunlight or dark environments. What’s even better is that you can check the current date via its bold date and day windows.
Automatic Movement
Since this is an automatic watch, it depends on your arm movements for power. Having said this, it helps you save money which you would have used to get battery replacements.
Opinion and Drawbacks
This Seiko watch has features that make it a worthy investment on a low budget. However, its Hardlex display window cannot handle scratches and knocks as well as sapphire crystal.
Bulova 96A135 BVA-SERIES 120
Another ideal watch that claims the spot of the best automatic watch under 300 is the Bulova 96A135 timepiece. It deserves a place on our list because it combines elegance and precise timekeeping.’
Benefits
Water Resistance
This item boasts of the 30m water resistance. Such rating allows you to use the timepiece in the rain without damage, but it cannot endure prolonged exposure to water.
Self-Winding Movements
If you have issues with replacing batteries, this timepiece is an ideal option because it offers a 21 jewel automatic movements. This feature enables the watch to run continuously due to your arm movement.
Fashionable Dial
Most dials on this list are simple without extra features. However, the Bulova offers a skeleton dial that allows you to see its movements. It also has luminous hands and markers that point at its markers while sweeping across its black and gray dial. There are also a sub-dials on this part of the watch.
Opinion and Drawbacks
This watch offers features which are found on more expensive models. However, it has some downsides which include its cheap materials and weak display window. Another drawback is that it is more expensive than the others on our list.
Orient Bambino 2nd Gen Ver. 2
Unlike its military-inspired sibling on this list, the Orient Bambino Ver 2 was designed as a simple dress watch for special occasions. It also comes as a successor to the first Bambino.
Benefits
Ideal Water Resistance
Compared to the best automatic dive watches under $300, this timepiece has a low capacity for handling exposure to water. However, it can withstand raindrops or splashes from a tap but not bathing and swimming.
Slim and Lightweight Profile
If you need a watch that will fit perfectly with your cuffs, you should try the Orient Bambino Ver 2 because it has portable and slim built. This watch features a 40.5mm stainless steel case with polished lugs that hold a leather strap.
Unique Crystal Design with Vintage Dial
One of the striking features of this product is its domed crystal design that covers its equally domed dial. It is made from mineral crystal which can hold its own against scratches and knock linked with everyday use.
The glass covers a dial that boasts of a polished hour and second hands that do not contain luminous paint. A date window lies at the 3 o’clock position while the Orient logo remains at the 12 o’ clock marker.
Japanese Automatic Movement
The watch delivers a Japanese Automatic movement which allows it to run without bothering about manual winding. It even offers a high degree of accuracy that is not common with timepieces that fall within this price range.
Opinion and Drawbacks
There are many reasons to love this watch. For instance, it has an elegant vintage look that combines precise movement and an acceptable degree of water resistance. But if you are fond of using watches in poorly lit areas, especially at night, it’s best to consider other options.
Invicta Men’s 8928OB Pro Diver Automatic Watch
Since the release of Invicta Men 89280B, it has continued to rank as one of the best affordable automatic watches. This is because of its impressive features, high-quality, and low price.
The Invicta 89280B combines classic styling, high performance, and durability all in one timepiece. It is a reliable option for casual workers and pro-divers looking for a budget-friendly automatic dive watch under $300.
Benefits
Elegant Case
The Invicta 89280B has a well-designed built with a beautiful case that can complement your casual outfit. It features a 40mm gold plated stainless steel case that looks great, and comfortable enough on the wrist. The case houses a beautiful mineral dial window that catches the eye from afar glance.
Attractive Dial and Bezel
One thing you will love about this watch is its dial and bezel. Unlike the other watches on our list with a fixed bezel, the Invicta 89280B features a blue unidirectional rotating steel bezel. This bezel is significant for divers as it helps account for an elapsed time underwater.
As for the dial, this makes the watch look more attractive. This timepiece features a blue dial window which houses a luminous gold-tone hand and markers — the gold-tone Invicta logo at the 12 o’clock position adds more beauty to the dial. There is also a date window at the three o’clock position to keep you informed on the current day of the month.
Water Resistance
When it comes to the best automatic dive watch under 300, the Invicta 8928OB is a perfect choice for professional marine activities. This Invicta Pro-diver automatic watch can go a depth of 200 meters underwater without it getting damaged.
Having said this, you don’t need to take it off when bathing or swimming. But not suitable for scuba diving.
Durable and Comfortable Strap
The Invicta never fails to keep durability in mind as it features a gold stainless steel stone bracelet on this watch. One exciting part is that the bracelet comes with a foldable clasp which allows you to wear or take it off easily. Furthermore, the clasp features a safety closure, which makes the timepiece stay secure and comfortable on the wrist.
Opinion and Drawbacks
Considering its features and benefits, it is certain the Invicta is undoubtedly a top choice for automatic watch lovers. It is also one of the best choices for professionals who engage in marine activities. However, one thing we don’t like is that it needs regular winding to make it stay up and running.
Final Word on The Best Automatic Watch
In this article, we have listed some of the best automatic watches under $300. So if you don’t want to break the bank to get a top-quality automatic watch, you should consider the models mentioned above.
However, to make your decision a lot easier, we will like to offer you some great tip.
- For pro-diver looking for the best automatic dive watches under $500, the Invicta Men’s 8928OB, and Orient II are the perfect choice for you.
- If you have a great flair for fashion, we recommend the Bulova 96A135
- If you need a simple and classic watch, the Seiko and Orient Bambino will be the best bet.
Well, if you feel we missed some superior quality models from other brands, kindly leave a comment below.
