The quartz watch was introduced by one of the premier Japanese watchmakers in the market, Seiko, in 1969. The introduction of this revolutionary new horological movement kickstarted the Quartz Revolution of the 70s, which saw these types of timepieces overtake the traditional automatic/mechanical movement.
With quartz watches definitively overtaking mechanical movement timepieces, all other watchmakers had no choice but to release their own quartz watches. This fact is why we have both Japanese and Swiss quartz watches in the market today.
So, what exactly is a quartz watch, and what separates it from the traditional mechanical timepieces? The significant difference is that quartz watches utilize batteries or solar cells to operate. The quartz crystal regulates this energy source within the mechanism, which vibrates at a particular frequency when electricity is applied.
Quartz watches are also more accurate than their mechanical counterparts and are self-sufficient for a year or more. When electrified, quartz crystals can vibrate at exactly 32,768VPH, resulting in incredibly accurate timekeeping capabilities.
As you would have already pieced together, the main advantage of quartz watches is accuracy, convenience, and affordability. Thousands of quartz watches flood the market, so it might be daunting for entry-level watch lovers to dip into this nigh bottomless pool.
Well, good news as we have compiled a list of the best quartz watches out there. We also considered the price range when picking the timepieces and included the best, from the budget-friendly to the luxury models.
Table of Contents
Best Quartz Watches (From Budget to Luxury Swiss)
Timex Weekender
Let’s start things off with the affordable and reliable Timex Weekender watch. This quartz watch from Timex also applies to field use, and the aesthetic pretty much nails down the field watch vibe and its combination of polished stainless-steel case and brown leather strap.
If brown leather straps are not your thing, you can choose from various fabric/nylon and different colored leather bands. The Weekender is also quite sleek with its 38mm case diameter, making it suitable for most wrist sizes.
The Weekender utilizes the Timex quartz analog movement, powered by a CR1216 battery that can last up to three years. Additional features include an Indiglo backlight and a decent 30-meter water resistance rating.
Casio Edifice Quartz Solar Watch
Casio is best known for their tough-as-nails multi-functional timepiece, so you know what you will get with their Edifice watch line. First of all, Edifice separates itself from Casio’s typical timepieces by focusing more on a traditional analog-style watch rather than a digital one.
The Casio Edifice also offers excellent timekeeping functionality thanks to its chronograph design. Casio also incorporates solar-powered technology into its Edifice series to further expand on its capabilities.
You need to note that the Casio Edifice is quite large with its 48mm stainless-steel case. This watch’s substantial size is due to the myriad of features that come by default with a chronograph timepiece.
Overall, the Casio Edifice offers that high-end watch appeal at a reasonable price tag.
Citizen Eco-Drive Corso
The Citizen Eco-Drive AW1236-03A is a quartz watch that exhibits classiness in spades. With its 40mm stainless-steel case with silver-tone dial and Roman numeral hour markers, it certainly brings a level of refinement to the typically casual aesthetic of a quartz watch.
This timepiece features a Japanese quartz movement with an analog dial display; this Citizen timepiece is an excellent option for those looking for an affordable yet snazzy-looking dress watch. The genuine leather strap gives this timepiece a layer of ruggedness to its overall aesthetic.
As for other notable features, there is a date display located over at the three o’clock position. This Citizen watch also has a 30-meter water-resistant rating, which can withstand the occasional splash of water.
Orient Capital Version 2 Quartz Dress Watch
Orient has always been a personal favorite for stylish dress watches, and Capital Version 2 continues this trend with gusto. With the signature domed mineral crystal window in tow, this Orient quartz watch brings a specific layer of flair to its aesthetics and charm.
This timepiece from Orient features an uber sleek 40mm stainless-steel case with a stunning black dial. The dial incorporates silver-tone Roman numeral hour markers and three stick analog hands.
The Orient Capital Version 2 features a Japanese quartz movement that operates its analog dial and display day. This timepiece also has a 30-meter water resistance rating, so you shouldn’t worry about it getting splashed by water, and we do recommend you avoid water immersions.
The Orient Capital Version 2 incorporates everything that we love with the brand. Its timeless aesthetic and refined charm make this affordable Orient quartz watch an excellent timepiece of choice for everyone.
Seiko Prospex Solar Chronograph SSC017 (SSC017)
The Seiko Prospex is one of the best mid-range dive watches, and it comes with an exceptional build and several key features. Chief among them is its high-precision Japanese quartz movement that Seiko has honed and perfected throughout the years.
In addition to solid 200-meter water resistance, this Seiko quartz dive watch also comes equipped with solar-powered technology. As a dive watch, the Seiko Prospex features a highly legible dial that utilizes prominent hour markers and hands, all of which have a luminous finish.
If you are looking for a top-notch dive watch with a fairly reasonable price tag, you genuinely cannot go wrong with a Seiko Prospex timepiece.
Casio G-Shock Mudmaster (GGB100-1A3)
G-Shock watches are known for their extreme durability and fantastic multi-functionality. So, what can you expect from the Mudmaster series, which is an upgraded G-Shock with an even more impressive level of toughness?
The G-Shock Mudmaster has been designed to take on the harshest environments. While the massive build can be a bit intimidating, the Mudmaster managed to balance this out by utilizing a carbon-core guard structure case which is durable yet lightweight.
At the heart of the Mudmaster is a Japanese quartz movement that provides the digital display with impeccable precision. Another significant feature is the Quad Sensor which gives users access to an altimeter/barometer, thermometer, accelerometer, and a compass.
Also, the G-Shock Mudmaster’s Bluetooth connectivity can further expand upon the watch’s overall capabilities.
Bulova Lunar Pilot Chronograph Watch (96B251)
With a refined and professional design, the Bulova Lunar Pilot Chronograph can immediately catch anyone’s attention at first glance. Bulova’s proprietary high-performance UHF quartz movement is a significant aspect that separates the Lunar Pilot from the rest.
The UHF quartz movement is a precisionist-class torsional resonator movement that delivers 262kHz frequency, making it three times more accurate than your standard quartz watch. This feature is most certainly the Bulova Lunar Pilot’s primary selling point.
If you are in the market for the most accurate quartz watch, you might want to check out the Bulova Lunar Pilot. It is pretty easy on the eyes as well.
Braun Classic Watch (BN0035BKBKG)
Searching for a quartz watch with a modern chic aesthetic precision to boot?
Might we direct you towards the Braun Classic Chronograph Watch?
With its chronograph sub-dials, the Braun Classic delivers that extra level of timekeeping functionality. The all-black design accentuates the white hour markers and hands on the dial, and the second’s hand also comes with a bold yellow finish for that added visual partition.
The 40mm case also makes the Braun Classic a good fit for most wrists. In addition, this quartz watch provides decent 50-meter water resistance.
Shinola Detroit Canfield 2 Eye Chrono
The Shinola Detroit Canfield 2 is one impressive timepiece incorporating traditional and modern aesthetics into one complete package. This watch features a relatively understated appearance, making it a pretty versatile wristwear that would fit any attire.
The striking midnight blue dial emulates a peaceful night sky, which adds tranquility to the Shinola Canfield 2’s charm. The sandblasted blue-tone PVD case also brings a different vibe to the table. All of the unique color schemes on the case balance out the natural brown leather strap.
As for its quartz movement, the Shinola Detroit Canfield 2 utilizes an Argonite 5021 movement built with high-quality Swiss components. Additional features include a date window and chronograph functionality. Read more about Shinola watches here.
Marathon Military Field Army Swiss Quartz (WW194009)
With a design made to meet military standards, you can bet the Marathon Military Field Army Watch to be as robust and reliable as they come. This watch incorporates a construction design that helps it withstand harsh environments without breaking the proverbial sweat.
The Marathon Military Field is a General-Purpose quartz watch made for military personnel and civilians. It achieves this level of durability thanks to the 34mm fiber-shell all-black case, which is incredibly shock-resistant.
The scratch-resistant sapphire crystal dial window further enhances this level of sturdiness. Besides the tough outer shell, this timepiece also provides excellent precision thanks to its use of the Swiss-made ETA F06 3 quartz movement.
Hamilton Ventura Quartz Watch (H24411732)
Featuring its signature shield case, the Hamilton Ventura takes the cake as this list’s most visually arresting timepiece. You can easily see why Elvis Presley himself loves this particular watch brand.
The shield-shaped case measures 31mm, making it quite sleek and compact. The case also uses an anti-reflective and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal window for that added layer of durability.
The vintage charm of the Hamilton Ventura has also given it some screen time in the science-fiction classic film Men in Black. The caliber 955.412 quartz movement helps deliver on that area in terms of accuracy.
Mondaine SBB Essence Swiss Quartz Watch
The Mondaine Essence features a highly eco-friendly manufacturing process as this timepiece uses renewable materials. The case itself takes a different approach regarding its construction as the Mondain Essence utilizes Ricinus’s material. Ricinus is a castor oil-based substance that helps give the Mondaine Essence its lightweight qualities.
The dial features a traditional Swiss railway design with rudimentary hands and hour markers. As for what makes it tick, the Mondaine Essence incorporates a Swiss-made Ronda 513.S quartz movement to deliver reliable timekeeping accuracy.
Tissot T-Race Chrono Quartz Watch (T1154172706100)
The Tissot T-Race Chrono is a fine example of a high-end sports watch. With its wild design and completely robust build, the Tissot T-Race series certainly earns its spot as one of the top sports quartz watches in the market today.
The T-Race Chrono comes in a 43mm 316L stainless steel case with a black PVD coating. The sporty case uses a silicone strap which adds to its comfort and style.
There is also a magnified date display along with the three sub-dials and 100-meter water resistance. Inside the T-Race is the Swiss-made caliber E.T.A. G10.212 quartz movement.
Luminox ICE-SAR Arctic Watch (XL.1003/1000 Series)
Designed in collaboration with the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue (ICE-SAR), the Luminox Arctic Watch brings a compelling aesthetic to its already impressive capabilities.
It features a textured blue dial that emulates the ocean surface. This design choice is a nice touch for this tactical dive watch. That said, with a 46mm diameter case, expect this one not to complement individuals with smaller wrists.
The ICE-SAR Arctic Watch also has a 200-meter water resistance rating which matches its marine aesthetic. As for this watch’s “heart,” the ICE-SAR watch incorporates a Swiss-made caliber Ronda 515. HF.6 quartz movement.
Alpina AlpinerX Fiber Glass Quartz Sports Watch
Looking for an advanced analog-digital quartz watch with a slew of functionalities at the ready? Check out the Alpina AlpinerX with its smartwatch features and durable build.
As a smartwatch, the AlpinerX features various features such as an altimeter, barometer, compass, and thermometer. Once connected to a smartphone, the AlipinerX’s functionality is greatly expanded thanks to the Alpina App.
The AlpinerX also incorporates a Swiss-made caliber MMT-283-1 quartz movement that provides users with top-notch precision.
Victorinox I.N.O.X. Pro Diver Watch
The Victorinox I.N.O.X. is one of the best-rated dive watches in the market, and it certainly looks and feels the part. The tank-like 45mm case has just enough heft to give that premium-grade feel, and the 200-meter water resistance rating allows it to participate in most marine-based activities.
The I.N.O.X. Pro Diver also passed 130 extreme endurance homologation tests that are a stamp of guarantee to its durability. Additionally, this dive watch has an ISO 6426 certification, which means this one is great for diving. The design is also versatile enough to double as a casual everyday timepiece.
Laco 1925 Pilot Classic Watch (861807)
Laco brings another vintage element into this list with its 1925 Pilot Classic Watch.
As any good pilot watch should, the Laco 1925 has a very legible dial with its luminous and bold Arabic numeral hour markers and hands.
The round stainless-steel 42mm case also has a mineral crystal dial window which provides adequate protection from impact and scratches.
Additional features include a day and date display, both located at different positions. The watch also has a 50-meter water resistance to withstand occasional splashes and brief immersions.
As for its timekeeping accuracy, the Laco 1925 Pilot Watch integrates a Ronda quartz movement to keep things as precise as possible at all times.
Longines HydroConquest Swiss-Quartz Dive Watch (L38404966)
The Longines HydroConquest is a staple in the dive watch market, and this model brings the timeless diver’s timepiece design with a few unique twists. First, the blue and white color tone infused onto the dial gives this HydroConquest model a sharp and practical vibe.
A ceramic coin-edge bezel adds to that luxury factor without increasing the digits on the price tag. The polished stainless-steel case is robust and delivers that solid heft that gives a telltale hint of its durability.
Despite the rigid design, the crown guards and lugs are well-placed to provide a comfortable fit. The HydroConquest also utilizes the Longines Caliber L157, which passes the accuracy test with flying colors.
TAG Heuer Monaco Watch (WAW131AFC6177)
Yes, you read that right – we have an entry here from TAG Heuer. What’s more, this is from their classic Monaco series, which is even more surprising. However, from a business perspective, a more affordable TAG Heuer Monaco timepiece will undoubtedly sell.
This TAG Heuer Monaco quartz watch features a slick 37mm square case. All the elements in this timepiece blend with fantastic fluidity, and nothing appears to be off-kilter.
If you are looking for a prestigious watch brand at a relatively affordable cost, you want to check out what TAG Heuer offers with their quartz watch collection.
Breitling Colt Quartz Watch (A7438811/G792)
The Breitling Colt is a rugged and professional timepiece designed to impress. The silver-tone 44mm stainless-steel case comes with a brown leather strap that adds a layer of ruggedness to its appearance.
The dial features luminous hour markers and hands, giving it excellent readability no matter the lighting condition. Additionally, the case provides up to 200-meters of water resistance, making the Breitling Colt a handy companion during sea travels as well.
Precision is also a facet that Breitling watches are known for, and it holds here via the Breitling caliber 74 – a quality quartz movement with jewels.
With its impeccably robust aesthetic, the Breitling Colt exudes a professional charm backed up by its top-tier level of accuracy.
