For most consumers, watches are small status symbols. As a result, they want to buy the best watch available in their price range. Sometimes, this means purchasing expensive branded watches.
Swiss watches are one of the most accurate, quality, and well-crafted timepieces globally. Unfortunately, some brands can be out of the price range of many people looking to purchase luxury timepieces.
Many affordable Swiss watch brands offer similar features at lower prices. Therefore, you can find a watch with a classic or bold design.
In short, these affordable brands will undoubtedly make it easy to find a great watch that fits your style and budget.
Here, we’ll discuss the best 13 (most) affordable Swiss watch brands available today. Above all, they offer a wide selection of Swiss-made watches at relatively low prices.
Table of Contents
Best Affordable Swiss Watch Brands
Tissot is the best pick for the best affordable Swiss watch brands because they boast a vast selection of affordable Swiss timepieces.
From beautiful retro dress watches to sapphire crystal dive timepieces to sporty chronographs. Indeed, everyone can find something for their specific needs!
Comparison: Affordable Swiss Watches Brands
Before we review the affordable Swiss watch brands, let’s briefly compare them based on their price ranges.
We all have different meanings to affordability. In other words, what is affordable to me may not be affordable to you.
Here’s our vast selection of affordable Swiss watch brands:
| Brand | Specialty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| #1 Tissot | Sports watches | Affordable to Mid-range |
| #2 Swatch | Funky quartz watches | Very affordable |
| #3 Wenger | Dive watches | Affordable |
| #4 Victorinox | Hard as nail watches | Affordable to Mid-range |
| #5 Certina | Sports watches | Affordable to Mid-range |
| #6 Mondaine | Eco Swiss watches | Affordable |
| #7 Alpina | Outdoor watches | Affordable to Mid-range |
| #8 MIDO | Dive watches | Affordable to Mid-range |
| #9 Glycine | Pilot watches | Affordable to Mid-range |
| #10 Marathon | US military timepieces | Affordable to Mid-range |
| #11 Oris | Powerful in-house movements | Affordable – Luxury |
| #12 Squale | Dive watches | Affordable to Mid-range |
| #13 Frederique Constant | Art Deco dress timepieces | Affordable – Luxury |
Review of Affordable Swiss Watch Brands
Swatch Group
Swatch Group is currently the globe’s most famous watch group. Typically, they have a large variety of well-known watch brands in their Swatch Group umbrella.
Most importantly, the group comes in a pyramid representation. To illustrate, the most affordable watch brands sit at the base while the most expensive brands are at the top.
The Swatch Group, namely, owns various most affordable Swiss watch brands:
- Swatch
- Tissot
- MIDO
- Certina
- Flik Flak (Swatch fr kids)
- Hamilton
- Incredibly affordable timepieces to buy on a budget
- Extensive collection of watches to suit different user needs
- Stylish color combinations and craftsmanship offer extra elegance
- 3-year warranty and 2 years for battery life make the watches reliable
- Most of the watches have a non-replaceable battery
Swatch
Swatch Clear clearly bold
ONCE AGAIN
First of all, Swatch is one of the most well-known affordable Swiss watch brands. In fact, it is best known for protecting the Swiss watchmaking industry in the 1970s and 1980s.
That’s the period when the Quartz Crisis nearly threatened the existence of Swiss watches.
Since its launch in 1983, Swatch has been a fun and super affordable Swiss watch brand. In addition, these watches boast crazy color combinations for extra style.
Moreover, Swatch uses a Swiss quartz movement for all their watches. So, you’ll find them pretty cool if you’re into techy stuff like me.
Swatch also manufactures some of the best cheap watches for women and men. Therefore, this Swiss watch brand offers something for everyone.
You’ll find Swatch watches in an extensive range of Swiss-crafted quartz watches to pick from. In addition, most of the watches are water-resistant to 50 meters. Plus, you can get them in various sizes, from 26mm to 44mm, for a perfect fit.
Wenger
Wenger Men’s 0641.102 Sea Force
Wenger Men’s 01.1541.104 Sport Analog
Secondly, Wenger is another Swiss watch brand that offers affordably priced timepieces. So, you can get excellent timepieces without sacrificing your budget.
Initially, the company used to manufacture Swiss army knives. But, in 2005, Victorinox and Wenger merged their knife crafting operations.
Currently, Wenger focuses on making cheap Swiss watches and travel gear.
Their watches are certainly well-known for their precise timekeeping. Besides, Wenger offers the most affordable automatic watch with a Swiss movement.
Furthermore, their Swiss dive watch collection boasts affordable, water-resistant watches up to 330 feet.
- Affordable Swiss dive watches
- Great quality timepieces
- Durable timepieces
- Their movements are not in-house
- Limited collections of watches
Victorinox
Victorinox Swiss Army Men’s I.N.O.X. Watch
Victorinox Swiss Army Men’s Alliance Sport Chrono Watch
Just like Wenger, Victorinox is a remarkable Swiss watchmaker known for making quality Swiss army knives. Therefore, their watches are among the toughest and most durable timepieces available today.
Excitingly, their Swiss-made watches are fairly cheap. Other than that, their I.N.O.X watch range appears to be the greatest pick for consumers because of their incredibly sturdy construction.
Moreover, the entire I.N.O.X watch range is water-resistant up to a depth of 200 meters. That is to say, their watches are not only durable but also great for your money.
In addition, the 5-year warranty covers you against any manufacturing defects.
Victorinox also makes its watches primarily from recycled materials. For example:
- Stainless steel
- Aluminum
- Copper
Yes, that’s right! These watches come from 100% recycled materials. So, they are eco-friendly.
While Victorinox might not be the most stylish watch, it’s undoubtedly unique. That is because they have a simple, meek design, making them great for office or casual wear.
- Robust and durable timepieces for tough jobs
- 5-year warranty allows for compensation against defects
- Affordable watches to buy on a budget
- Crafted from recycled materials, so they aren’t the most stylish timepieces on the market
- Somewhat limited in functionality because of its simple design
Tissot
Tissot mens Seastar Ceramic Sport Watch
Tissot mens Supersport Stainless Steel Casual Watch
Tissot is yet another affordable Swiss watch brand. However, they fall under the control of the Swatch Group.
Basically, Charles-Felicien Tissot and his son, Charles-Emile Tissot, founded this company in 1853.
As a result, Tissot is without a doubt a great Swiss watch brand with an amazing experience.
Moreover, the brand has indeed always been famous for its Swiss-made quartz watches with traditional designs.
Tissot currently offers many high-quality automatic timepieces with elegant designs at reasonable prices.
Most importantly, they are the official timekeeper and sponsors of the MotoGP and NBA. In fact, their watches definitely show their sports association partnerships.
Apart from that, Tissot crafts and launches NBA-styled chronographs. Also, they undoubtedly offer a vast range of chronographs known as T-Race Range designed for racing drivers. Their automatic dive watch collection is excellent. In fact, most of the watches here feature an impressive power reserve of up to 80 hours.
- Great range of timepieces to buy from
- Affordably priced watches for different budgets
- Excellent power reserve for reliable performance
- The company is not as famous as some other brands on this list.
Mondaine
Mondaine Men’s A667.30314.11SBB
Mondaine Men’s SBB Stainless Steel Essence
Mondaine is one of the most famous watch brands in the world. Also, it is one of the oldest watch brands in Switzerland. It has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1951. Most importantly, Mondaine watches are designed with simplicity and elegance in mind. Therefore, they are without a doubt amongst the best-looking Swiss watches available today. Besides, the brand’s designs have grown over time. However, they always keep their classic appeal intact.
Initially, they got inspired by the railway clocks (Official Swiss Railway Clock), which were popular in Switzerland.
Also, Mondaine is best known to craft quirky and affordable Swiss timepieces. Plus, they are undoubtedly leaders in sustainability among the Swiss watch brands.
In short, they make their timepieces inside a solar-powered factory. Therefore, they use only about 20% of electricity generated from fossil fuels. It’s certainly a role model in the industry.
- Sustainably made watches to reduce GHG emissions
- Swiss-made Quartz movements offer elegance
- Highly reputable with over 70 years in the Swiss watching industry
- Limited collection and styles available
- Very large cases that might be uncomfortable to wear if you have small wrists or hands
Certina
Certina DS-2 Black Dial Men’s Quartz Watch
Certina Men’s Watches DS Royal
Certina is another affordable Swiss watch brand that makes sports watches. They are, without a doubt, best known for their utmost reliability and durability.
They fall under the Swatch Group. However, they’re not very famous like other affordable Swiss watches brands such as Tissot or Hamilton.
But they offer equally similar quality timepieces that boast the same innovation and heritage. Also, Certina watch collections feature titanium-based spring technology and the Powermatic 80 automatic movement.
Basically, these are some of the technologies offered by the Swatch Group.
- Robustly made timepieces to last longer
- Impressive technologies for top-notch performance
- Designed innovatively for added elegance
- Not very popular like Tissot or Hamilton Swiss watch brands
Alpina
Alpina Men’s Startimer Stainless Steel
Alpina Men’s Alpiner Swiss Quartz Sport Watch
With this affordable Swiss watch brand, expect to get the best value for your money. In particular, they know what they’re doing. That is because they have been in the business since 1883.
Before its launch, the founders wanted to craft robust watches for outdoor enthusiasts.
Currently, they make robust, shockproof, and antimagnetic Swiss watches. Their watches have stainless steel construction and an excellent water resistance level.
So, your Alpina Swiss-made watch will last longer. Today, the Alpinists boast 130 years of experience in crafting high-quality Swiss sports watches. That is why their watches are common among athletes, adventurers, divers, and pilots.
Alpine watches are quite affordable. Therefore, you can quickly get one that fits your budget. That’s especially if you opt for their cheap Swiss-made quartz timepieces.
- Swiss-made quartz movement make them elegant
- Affordable Swiss watch to fit your budget
- Durable timepieces with reliable performance
- Limited watch collection and styles to choose from
Marathon
Marathon 34mm General Purpose Mechanical (GPM) Wrist Watch
Marathon Swiss watches are getting closer to a more expensive boundary. Consequently, they’re an ideal choice for anyone looking for an entry-level Swiss-made dive watch.
Specifically, this Swiss watchmaker has been a great watch supplier for the US military forces. Therefore, as a military Swiss watch brand, you can get military-based watches at a reasonable price.
Furthermore, their timepieces boast a tough look. Besides, they often print clearly the US GOVERNMENT signature on their military watches.
Plus, most of their dive watches have the GSAR (Government Search and Rescue) or TSAR (Tritium Search and Rescue labels. So, these watches absolutely come to handle tough missions.
- Tritium in TSAR offer 24/7 luminosity for about 25 years
- Perfectly designed to handle tough military operations
- Armed timepieces offered at affordable prices
- Entry-level Swiss dive watches are expensive
Glycine
Combat Classic Mens Analog Automatic Watch with Leather Bracelet GL0285
Glycine has been in the watchmaking industry business since 1914. In fact, their operations are based in Bienne, Switzerland.
They offer high-value timepieces at affordable prices so as to fit many budgets.
Also, Glycine is amongst the pioneers in the manufacture of pilot watches. To illustrate, Glycine launched its Airman collection in 1953.
Essentially, their goal was to offer luxury watches for pilots looking for something more than just a daily timepiece.
Of course, this Swiss watch brand has continued its legacy by making aviation-themed watch models. Specifically, these ranged from world timers to collectors made for the armed forces.
Nonetheless, this Swiss watchmaker offers affordable timepieces for frequent travelers and adventurers. In short, they’re suitable for individuals looking for a watch that can show multiple time zones.
- High-quality watches that guarantee excellent performance
- Various watch collections to choose from
- Versatile timepieces that show different time zones
- Not an ideal choice for those looking for a regular watch
MIDO
Mido Herren-Armbanduhr XL Belluna Analog Automatik Edelstahl
MIDO is another Swiss watch brand under the Swatch group. They specifically deal with gorgeous dive watches.
For instance, their watches have a beautiful Ocean Star Tribute logo on the dial. That is to show their respect for the 1960s divers.
Moreover, the watches are highly accurate and durable. As a result, they have an excellent value for money too.
Just like most Swiss watch brands, MIDO is in partnership with major sports events. Today, the company is also a new Red Bull’s Cliff Diving World Series partner.
Furthermore, their Ocean Star Captain V dive watch, in particular, is another excellent timepiece most people love. Thus, it is evident that MIDO offers lots of gorgeous Swiss-made watches to select one that suits your needs best.
Nonetheless, this watchmaker is an ideal choice for those looking for an entry-level Swiss dive watch in terms of affordability.
- Watches offer more performance than most affordable brands
- Higher quality finish that is resistant to scratches
- Excellent watches to suit different needs
- They may not be very affordable as most Swiss brands discussed above
Squale
Squale is a less-known Swiss watch brand. They mainly deal with manufacturing robust yet elegant-looking dive watches.
The Swiss watch brands commissioned Squale to make diving watches in the 1960s.
Subsequently, they print their watches with the SQUALE label. That is to show that the watch is suitable dive gear. Basically, the label represents reliability and safety.
That is definitely what this Swiss watch brand still holds onto today. Indeed, this watchmaker has been at it for quite a while. Because of that, they’ve made some of the most elegant dive watches ever created.
Therefore, many divers undoubtedly consider Squale one of the best Swiss watch brands for diving.
- Beautiful looking timepieces designed for divers
- Powerfully crafted for reliable performance
- Great entry-level Swiss dive timepieces
- It may not be affordable for everyone
Oris
Oris Classic Automatic Silver Dial Men’s Watch
Oris is primarily an independent Swiss watch brand. They have been in the business since 1904 in Holsten, Swaziland.
They offer high-quality, beautiful, and very stylish watches. Therefore, they offer great value for the money. Also, their watches are well-built and robust. Plus, their styling is clean and classic. In fact, they may be on par with most mid-range luxury Swiss watch brands.
Oris is currently the official timekeeper of various sporting events such as the world cup, F1, etc. Nonetheless, the Oris Aquis is a favorite collection among many watch collectors.
This Swiss watch brand isn’t very affordable. However, the Oris Aquis collection is an excellent entry-level Swiss dive watch.
Therefore, be sure to find an excellent Oris watch for about a mid-range price. That is especially possible only if your budget allows it. In fact, you can find lots of watches for your money.
- Quality timepieces that offer great value for money
- Classic and clean styling for added elegance
- Well-designed watches for reliable performance
- Their watches may not be super affordable for everyone
Frederique Constant
Frederique Constant Men’s Classics Stainless Steel Quartz Dress Watch
Lastly, Frederique Constant is one of the newest Swiss watch brands. Consequently, they may not be popularly known for being super affordable.
However, they dedicate themselves to providing luxury Swiss watches to its market. For instance, their Swiss-made ladies’ watches are a stylish and great pick. They primarily feature an Art Deco style that makes them super elegant and timeless.
Alternatively, this Swiss watchmaker finds pride in their built-in house production, movements, and assembly. They manufacture excellent Swiss smartwatches for various uses.
- Reasonably priced luxury watches
- Stylish Swiss-made watches that match your dress
- In-house built watches with remarkable performance
- It may not be a familiar brand to some
That said, Switzerland is the world’s center of high-quality watchmaking. Because of that, you’ll find many affordable Swiss watch brands to buy from. Also, there are luxury yet expensive Swiss timepieces to buycturers.
Above, we have reviewed the best 13 affordable Swiss watch brands to buy from. In brief, their watches are stylish, classic, beautiful, and high-quality.
Moreover, they offer a luxury brand’s quality timepieces at a pretty low price. Suppose you are looking for an affordable luxury timepiece for everyday use. In that case, these brands should be on your list of watches.