Breaking the Bank to Buy a Watch? How Much Should You Really Spend?

It is a recognised fact that the wristwatch has evolved from just a gadget that tells time to an accessory that complements our dressing — and in some cases, a piece of jewelry that enhances our status.

In a bid to buy a watch that makes the right statement, it's quite easy to get emotional, throw caution to the wind, and break the bank. Whether this is right or wrong depends on what is at stake.

Before breaking the bank, however, consider the following:

Price Brackets of Watches

Watches generally fall into four price categories:

1. Less than $30 – No-name brands and low-level counterfeits
2. $30 - $300 – Fashion brands and better quality counterfeits (The higher the price, the better the quality)
3. $300 - $3,000 – Entry-level luxury brands
4. Above $3,000 – Luxury and high-end luxury brands

What Determines the Price of a Watch?

Three key factors contribute to the price of a watch:

1. The Watch Movement – Often referred to as the engine
2. The Accessories – The case, band, and materials used
3. Heritage – Brand name, history, and reputation

It's common to find two vastly different watches — sometimes from different manufacturers — using the exact same watch movement but priced significantly differently. This is because the accessories and brand name often contribute more to the cost than the movement itself.

Price Bracket Breakdown

Below $30

Here, you'll mainly find unknown brands and counterfeits. The quality of plating on accessories is usually low, so leather or rubber straps are a safer bet. Interestingly, the watch movement may still work long after the watch has become an embarrassment due to its poor appearance. Modern watch technology is so common that even cheap movements can function accurately for years.

$30 - $300

Quality improves considerably in this range. Notable fashion brands like POLICE, Guess, and Tommy Hilfiger have a presence here (usually priced above $100). The plating quality is better, leather and rubber straps are of higher quality, and stainless steel is often used instead of brass or other alloys.

$300 - $3,000

This segment features entry-level luxury brands like Gc and Victorinox Swiss Army — offering the best value for money. Watches in this range typically have high-quality movements, excellent plating, and premium accessories. Brand owners at this level have reputations to protect and rarely compromise on quality.

Above $3,000

At this price point, you're not necessarily paying for better quality but for luxury materials and heritage. Instead of gold plating, you could get solid gold cases or real diamonds, depending on your budget. Handmade components, limited editions, and centuries-old heritage also add to the price.

However, the biggest value at this level is often the ego boost — wearing a renowned brand or a watch studded with precious stones.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, how much you spend on a watch depends on your budget and the value you place on the statement you're trying to make.

Bottom line — determine how much you have to spend and try to fit your preferences within your budget. It's usually not worth it to break the bank to buy a watch unless the status it confers is worth the price.