As much as they are trend-led jewellery staples, watches are first and foremost heritage pieces.
Holding such sentimental value sadly doesn’t tend to come cheap. Head honcho watch brands like Rolex and Philippe Patek value their precious pieces akin to that of a house deposit. The Watch Pages notes that the average cost of a luxury watch will set you back approximately £10,000, which for many, is out of reach financially.
Thankfully, there are ample affordable watch brands to consider. Household names such as Swatch and Olivia Burton never fail to save the day with their pocket-friendly picks, which in no way sacrifice style in the name of budget.
The functional features of an everyday watch are just as important as its aesthetic. The straps, the face, the size - all factors that need to be pondered before purchase, even if you’re not splashing out on an Omega.
Take it from the Hackney hipsters, inexpensive renditions are the ones to watch (sorry.) Casio-clad Londoners are an increasingly common sight, particularly in Gen Z hubs Stoke Newington and Victoria Park. Carhartt cargos and questionable mullets also preferable when finessing the E1 streetwear aesthetic.
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The art school appeal of said It-watches coupled with the ongoing cost of living crisis means there’s near-to-no reason not to treat yourself to new, affordable watch. Not only do they look great, but they make for touching gifts, especially for that friend who is always fashionably late.
Discover the best affordable watches to add to your collection this season and break the sartorial mould without breaking the bank.
Best affordable watches to add to your contemporary collection:
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Casio
Step into timeless style with a Casio signature. This gold-toned wrist warrior blends retro charm with modern functionality, featuring an analog-digital display for the perfect mix of elegance and precision. Its stainless steel bracelet is sturdy and modern, making it the ultimate accessory for any occasion.
Boyfriend Mini Elevate Watch
Larsson & Jennings
Ensure you're always fashionably on time with this petite powerhouse of style. This watch by Larsson & Jennings dazzles with its chic mixed gold design and genderless look. Its 31mm case packs a punch, making it the perfect glam accessory for any outfit.
Poplar Women's Logo Charm Bracelet Strap Watch
Vivienne Westwood
Vivienne Westwood's Poplar Women's Logo Charm Bracelet Strap Watch combines elegance and functionality. Featuring a sleek watch face adorned with the Poplar logo, this timepiece is complemented by a stylish bracelet strap embellished with charming logo pendants.
34mm Bejewelled Forest Green & Two Tone Bracelet Watch
Olivia Burton
Radiating Gucci glamour, Olivia Burton's offering boasts a rich forest green dial, adorned with sparkling jewels, which is complemented by a sophisticated two-tone bracelet. Sized perfectly at 34mm, this watch is your ultimate accessory for turning heads and making a statement.
Women's Eco-Drive Bracelet Watch
Citizen
The Women's Eco-Drive Bracelet Watch by Citizen is a stellar example of affordable yet advanced technology. Utilising Eco-Drive technology, it harnesses light to power the watch, eliminating the need for a battery. Embrace both sustainability and style with this exquisite and innovative timepiece.
Denim Blue
Swatch
Not one for metallics? Stick to a failsafe blue hue with Swatch's modern piece. The watch displays a chic denim blue dial and strap, bringing a laid-back yet sophisticated vibe to your wrist. A contrasting pink printed Swatch logo, pink hands and a biosourced case further feature.
Bracelet Watch
Sekonda
Featuring a square white dial and a gold-tone bracelet, this timeless Sekonda watch offers refinery and practicality in equal measure. Designed for both daily wear and evening soirées, the piece will effortless take you from day to night.
Women's Crystal Detail Bracelet Strap Watch
Tommy Hilfiger
Tommy Hilfiger's Women's Crystal Detail Bracelet Strap Watch is a sophisticated blend of style and luxury. This elegant timepiece features a dazzling array of crystals around the watch face, adding a touch of glamour. The coolly glamorous bracelet strap complements the polished design, making it a perfect accessory for all-day wear.
Women's Ritz Crystal Chronograph Date Bracelet Strap Watch
Michael Kors
The Michael Kors Women's Ritz Crystal Chronograph Date Bracelet Strap Watch is perfect for those with a penchant for glitz. This stunning accessory features a chronograph function and a date display, enhanced by sparkling crystal accents around the bezel.
Women's Sports Patterned Dial Bracelet Strap Watch
Lorus
The Florus Women's Sports Patterned Dial Bracelet Strap Watch is the epitome of chic, effortlessly merging athletic flair with high-fashion elegance. Its bold, patterned dial exudes a contemporary edge, while the sturdy bracelet strap ensures a seamless blend of durability and style.
How we chose:
Style: With our eagle-eyed vision, Hello! Fashion meticulously keep up to date with classic and contemporary trends, be them IRL or online. We've included a broad range of styles which will appeal to different buyers with varied personal styles.
Quality: From classic labels like Casio to modern options such as Swatch, this round-up features a myriad of brands that promise excellent quality and highly functional staples.
Why you should trust me:
My role on the fashion features team at HELLO! Fashion coupled with over 10 years experience in the fashion industry has enabled me to curate an expansive brand vocabulary and develop an eye for timeless yet on-trend pieces. Luxury trends spotlighting is my bread and butter, which helps me to predict trickle-down high-street trends that will appeal to the masses, be them seasoned style veterans or keen fashion rookies.
