Best watches for men in the UK (2026)
Our top watch for men is the Casio G-Shock GW-M5610U: tough, rated to 200 m, solar charged and radio controlled, so it is always right and never needs a battery. The runner-up is the Seiko 5 Sports SRPD55, a 42.5 mm automatic that suits work and weekends. This page is for any man choosing a watch, whether that's a first watch, an everyday upgrade or a first automatic. We compared G-Shock, Casio, Seiko, Citizen, Tissot, Orient and Timex models on movement, size, toughness, water resistance and style.
By The Watch Sorted desk · Updated 6 November 2026 · 76 products, all price-tracked
Our picks
Photo: AmazonSeiko 5 Sports SRPD55K1
The first automatic we'd point most people to.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Photo: AmazonCitizen Promaster Diver BN0150-28E
Our pick of the affordable dive watches: solar, properly water resistant and tough.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Photo: AmazonTissot PRX T137.410.11.041.00
The watch we'd point most people to at this price.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.All 76 compared
Photo: AmazonOur top pickThe first automatic we'd point most people to.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The first automatic we'd point most people to.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want time to the second: an automatic gains or loses a few seconds a day and needs a service every few years.
Read the full review →Photo: AmazonRunner-upOur pick of the affordable dive watches: solar, properly water resistant and tough.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
Our pick of the affordable dive watches: solar, properly water resistant and tough.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a mechanical watch to look at and look after: this runs on light and a quartz movement.
Read the full review →Photo: AmazonAlso goodThe watch we'd point most people to at this price.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The watch we'd point most people to at this price.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a watch that never needs a battery.
Read the full review →
Our pick of the Swiss automatics at this price.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
Our pick of the Swiss automatics at this price.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want time to the second: an automatic gains or loses a few seconds a day and needs a service every few years.
Read the full review →
The everyday G-Shock to start with: thin for the range, tough and easy to read.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The everyday G-Shock to start with: thin for the range, tough and easy to read.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a watch that never needs a battery.
Read the full review →
The cheapest way into a proper G-Shock, and still one of the best.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The cheapest way into a proper G-Shock, and still one of the best.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
Read the full review →
The square G-Shock to keep for life, if you can justify the price.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The square G-Shock to keep for life, if you can justify the price.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a mechanical watch to look at and look after: this runs on light and a quartz movement.
Read the full review →
The gold Casio: a cheerful, low-cost gift that suits almost anyone.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The gold Casio: a cheerful, low-cost gift that suits almost anyone.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
Read the full review →
The best cheap dive watch: properly water resistant for little money.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The best cheap dive watch: properly water resistant for little money.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a watch that never needs a battery.
Read the full review →
The Seiko 5 in its most popular colour.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The Seiko 5 in its most popular colour.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want time to the second: an automatic gains or loses a few seconds a day and needs a service every few years.
Read the full review →
A great-value automatic diver.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A great-value automatic diver.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want time to the second: an automatic gains or loses a few seconds a day and needs a service every few years.
Read the full review →
The best cheap dress watch: plain, smart and accurate.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The best cheap dress watch: plain, smart and accurate.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a watch that never needs a battery.
Read the full review →
The minimalist's F-91W: hands instead of digits, for pocket money.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The minimalist's F-91W: hands instead of digits, for pocket money.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a watch that never needs a battery.
Read the full review →
A cheap solar watch with a field-watch look.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A cheap solar watch with a field-watch look.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a mechanical watch to look at and look after: this runs on light and a quartz movement.
Read the full review →
The Duro dressed up on steel.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The Duro dressed up on steel.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a watch that never needs a battery.
A green automatic diver-style watch at a fair price.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A green automatic diver-style watch at a fair price.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want time to the second: an automatic gains or loses a few seconds a day and needs a service every few years.
Read the full review →
A good-looking solar chronograph that never needs a battery change.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A good-looking solar chronograph that never needs a battery change.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a mechanical watch to look at and look after: this runs on light and a quartz movement.
Read the full review →
A proper automatic dive watch at a fair price.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A proper automatic dive watch at a fair price.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want time to the second: an automatic gains or loses a few seconds a day and needs a service every few years.
The Kamasu in its most popular colour.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The Kamasu in its most popular colour.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want time to the second: an automatic gains or loses a few seconds a day and needs a service every few years.
Read the full review →
The PRX for smaller wrists.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The PRX for smaller wrists.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a watch that never needs a battery.
Read the full review →
A Swiss diver at a fair price.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A Swiss diver at a fair price.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a watch that never needs a battery.
Read the full review →
A proper Swiss automatic diver.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A proper Swiss automatic diver.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want time to the second: an automatic gains or loses a few seconds a day and needs a service every few years.
Read the full review →
A good Swiss watch for the office.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A good Swiss watch for the office.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a watch that never needs a battery.
A traditional Swiss automatic.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A traditional Swiss automatic.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want time to the second: an automatic gains or loses a few seconds a day and needs a service every few years.
A cheap, easy field-style watch that looks right with jeans.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A cheap, easy field-style watch that looks right with jeans.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a watch that never needs a battery.
Read the full review →
A lot of Swiss chronograph for the money, if you like them big.
Our verdict
A lot of Swiss chronograph for the money, if you like them big.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you have a slim wrist: at 45.5mm it's one of Tissot's largest.
The PRX look for the least money, with a sapphire crystal and Swiss quartz.
Our verdict
The PRX look for the least money, with a sapphire crystal and Swiss quartz.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a mechanical movement: the Powermatic 80 PRX costs more and has one.
The PRX look for the least money, with a sapphire crystal and Swiss quartz.
Our verdict
The PRX look for the least money, with a sapphire crystal and Swiss quartz.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a mechanical movement: the Powermatic 80 PRX costs more and has one.
A lot of Swiss chronograph for the money, if you like them big.
Our verdict
A lot of Swiss chronograph for the money, if you like them big.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you have a slim wrist: at 45.5mm it's one of Tissot's largest.
A Swiss chronograph diver for the price of a basic automatic.
Our verdict
A Swiss chronograph diver for the price of a basic automatic.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you have a slim wrist or want something low-profile: it's a big, tall watch.
A Swiss-made diver that costs less than most automatics and asks nothing of you.
Our verdict
A Swiss-made diver that costs less than most automatics and asks nothing of you.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want an automatic: the Seastar 1000 Powermatic 80 costs more.
A big, easy-to-read Swiss chronograph at a fair price.
Our verdict
A big, easy-to-read Swiss chronograph at a fair price.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you prefer smaller watches: at 45mm it lives up to the XL.
A Swiss chronograph diver for the price of a basic automatic.
Our verdict
A Swiss chronograph diver for the price of a basic automatic.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you have a slim wrist or want something low-profile: it's a big, tall watch.
A big, easy-to-read Swiss chronograph at a fair price.
Our verdict
A big, easy-to-read Swiss chronograph at a fair price.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you prefer smaller watches: at 45mm it lives up to the XL.
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Our verdict
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need accuracy to the second: automatics drift several seconds a day.
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Our verdict
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need accuracy to the second: automatics drift several seconds a day.
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Our verdict
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need accuracy to the second: automatics drift several seconds a day.
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Our verdict
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need accuracy to the second: automatics drift several seconds a day.
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Our verdict
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need accuracy to the second: automatics drift several seconds a day.
A Swiss chronograph diver for the price of a basic automatic.
Our verdict
A Swiss chronograph diver for the price of a basic automatic.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you have a slim wrist or want something low-profile: it's a big, tall watch.
The PRX look for the least money, with a sapphire crystal and Swiss quartz.
Our verdict
The PRX look for the least money, with a sapphire crystal and Swiss quartz.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a mechanical movement: the Powermatic 80 PRX costs more and has one.
A Swiss-made diver that costs less than most automatics and asks nothing of you.
Our verdict
A Swiss-made diver that costs less than most automatics and asks nothing of you.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want an automatic: the Seastar 1000 Powermatic 80 costs more.
A lot of Swiss chronograph for the money, if you like them big.
Our verdict
A lot of Swiss chronograph for the money, if you like them big.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you have a slim wrist: at 45.5mm it's one of Tissot's largest.
A lot of Swiss chronograph for the money, if you like them big.
Our verdict
A lot of Swiss chronograph for the money, if you like them big.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you have a slim wrist: at 45.5mm it's one of Tissot's largest.
A big, easy-to-read Swiss chronograph at a fair price.
Our verdict
A big, easy-to-read Swiss chronograph at a fair price.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you prefer smaller watches: at 45mm it lives up to the XL.
A Swiss-made diver that costs less than most automatics and asks nothing of you.
Our verdict
A Swiss-made diver that costs less than most automatics and asks nothing of you.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want an automatic: the Seastar 1000 Powermatic 80 costs more.
A big, easy-to-read Swiss chronograph at a fair price.
Our verdict
A big, easy-to-read Swiss chronograph at a fair price.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you prefer smaller watches: at 45mm it lives up to the XL.
One watch for work and weekends, Swiss-made and easy to live with.
Our verdict
One watch for work and weekends, Swiss-made and easy to live with.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a dive or sports watch: this is a dress-leaning everyday watch.
A Swiss-made diver that costs less than most automatics and asks nothing of you.
Our verdict
A Swiss-made diver that costs less than most automatics and asks nothing of you.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want an automatic: the Seastar 1000 Powermatic 80 costs more.
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Our verdict
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need accuracy to the second: automatics drift several seconds a day.
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Our verdict
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need accuracy to the second: automatics drift several seconds a day.
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Our verdict
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need accuracy to the second: automatics drift several seconds a day.
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Our verdict
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need accuracy to the second: automatics drift several seconds a day.
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Our verdict
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need accuracy to the second: automatics drift several seconds a day.
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Our verdict
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need accuracy to the second: automatics drift several seconds a day.
A tidy, mid-sized Swiss chronograph for every day.
Our verdict
A tidy, mid-sized Swiss chronograph for every day.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a simple three-hand watch: the Gentleman costs less.
A big, easy-to-read Swiss chronograph at a fair price.
Our verdict
A big, easy-to-read Swiss chronograph at a fair price.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you prefer smaller watches: at 45mm it lives up to the XL.
A motor-sport chronograph with Swiss quartz inside.
Our verdict
A motor-sport chronograph with Swiss quartz inside.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want something understated: this is a busy, sporty dial.
A racing-style chronograph with real Tissot history behind the name.
Our verdict
A racing-style chronograph with real Tissot history behind the name.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a mechanical chronograph: this one is quartz.
A big, easy-to-read Swiss chronograph at a fair price.
Our verdict
A big, easy-to-read Swiss chronograph at a fair price.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you prefer smaller watches: at 45mm it lives up to the XL.
A tidy, mid-sized Swiss chronograph for every day.
Our verdict
A tidy, mid-sized Swiss chronograph for every day.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a simple three-hand watch: the Gentleman costs less.
A dependable, water-resistant Swiss chronograph for every day.
Our verdict
A dependable, water-resistant Swiss chronograph for every day.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a slim watch: chronographs like this are thick.
The PRX look for the least money, with a sapphire crystal and Swiss quartz.
Our verdict
The PRX look for the least money, with a sapphire crystal and Swiss quartz.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a mechanical movement: the Powermatic 80 PRX costs more and has one.
A small, classic Seiko automatic that goes with anything.
Our verdict
A small, classic Seiko automatic that goes with anything.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you like big watches: this is a compact, low-key design.
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Our verdict
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need accuracy to the second: automatics drift several seconds a day.
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Our verdict
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need accuracy to the second: automatics drift several seconds a day.
A small, classic Seiko automatic that goes with anything.
Our verdict
A small, classic Seiko automatic that goes with anything.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you like big watches: this is a compact, low-key design.
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Our verdict
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need accuracy to the second: automatics drift several seconds a day.
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Our verdict
The classic first automatic: Japanese-made, tough and easy to wear.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need accuracy to the second: automatics drift several seconds a day.
A good-value automatic field watch from Japan.
Our verdict
A good-value automatic field watch from Japan.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a dressy watch: this is a casual, outdoorsy design.
A good-value Japanese automatic sports watch.
Our verdict
A good-value Japanese automatic sports watch.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want sapphire glass: this one uses mineral crystal.
A good-value Japanese automatic sports watch.
Our verdict
A good-value Japanese automatic sports watch.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want sapphire glass: this one uses mineral crystal.
Our pick of the square G-Shocks: no battery to change and always on time.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
Our pick of the square G-Shocks: no battery to change and always on time.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a mechanical watch to look at and look after: this runs on light and a quartz movement.
Read the full review →
The GA-2100 to buy if you never want to change a battery.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The GA-2100 to buy if you never want to change a battery.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a mechanical watch to look at and look after: this runs on light and a quartz movement.
Read the full review →
A cheap, light digital that looks as good now as in the 1980s.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
A cheap, light digital that looks as good now as in the 1980s.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
Read the full review →
The classic square G-Shock at a fair price: it does everything and lasts for years.
as of 6 Nov 2026, 12:27 GMT · Details
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.Our verdict
The classic square G-Shock at a fair price: it does everything and lasts for years.
Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want hands on a dial: it shows the time in digits.
ⓘ Some links are affiliate links: a purchase may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you. It never decides what we pick or how we rank it. Prices shown may have changed since they were checked.
Before you buy
Decide what it's for.
Start with how you'll wear it. For the office, a slim steel or dress watch. For sport, swimming and DIY, a G-Shock, diver or field watch. For a do-everything watch, a steel sports watch like the Tissot PRX or a Citizen Eco-Drive. One watch can cover most of life if you choose well. If you want just one watch, a steel sports watch on a bracelet with 100 m water resistance covers almost everything, from the office to the pool.
Size.
Most men's watches are 38 to 44 mm, but wrist size matters more than the label. As a rough guide, wrists under about 16.5 cm suit 36 to 40 mm; larger wrists can take 40 to 44 mm. The lug-to-lug length matters as much: if the lugs pass the edges of your wrist, the watch is too big.
Movement.
Quartz is accurate and cheap to run; solar (Citizen Eco-Drive, Tough Solar G-Shock) adds no battery changes; automatic (Seiko 5, Orient, Tissot Powermatic 80) winds itself and appeals to people who enjoy mechanical watches but drifts several seconds a day. Within each type there are good options at every budget: a Casio quartz, a Citizen Eco-Drive, a Seiko 5 automatic, or a Tissot in either quartz or automatic.
Toughness and water.
If you work with your hands or swim, look for 100 m or more and a tough crystal. G-Shocks are built for knocks; divers like the Citizen Promaster are built for water. Dress watches are delicate by comparison. A watch rated 30 m means splashes only; 50 m covers a swim; 100 m and up is for regular swimming.
Materials.
Stainless steel cases wear best. Sapphire crystals resist scratches far better than mineral glass. Gold tones are plated at these prices and wear. Resin is light and tough but less smart. A brushed finish hides scratches better than polished; a polished case looks dressier but shows marks.
Bracelet or strap.
A steel bracelet is durable and smart but needs sizing; a jeweller removes links in minutes. Leather is smart but dislikes water. Nylon and rubber are practical for sport. Check lug width so you can change it later.
Smart enough for work.
A plain dial, a steel bracelet or leather strap, and a case under about 42 mm look right with a suit. The Tissot PRX, Casio MTP-1302, Orient Bambino and Citizen Eco-Drive dress models all pass. Avoid big chronographs and bright colours if you work in a formal setting; a plain black, white or blue dial is safest.
First automatic.
If you want a mechanical watch, the Seiko 5 Sports and Orient Kamasu are the usual starting points. Expect to set it more often than quartz and to have it serviced eventually. The Seiko 5 Sports range offers dozens of colours and straps; the Orient Kamasu adds sapphire glass and 200 m water resistance.
Running costs.
Quartz needs a battery every few years. Solar needs nothing for many years. Automatics need a service every five to ten years, which can cost a good share of a cheap automatic's price. Solar is often the cheapest to own over many years.
We haven't worn every watch here. We picked from what UK shops sell and compared the makers' published specs: movement, size, water resistance, crystal and materials. We cover a range of uses and budgets rather than one kind of watch, and favour makers with a long record of reliability. UK prices and stock are tracked through the day. Read our full methodology →
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Common questions
What is the best watch for men?
For most men, the G-Shock GW-M5610U as a tough everyday watch, or the Tissot PRX as a smart steel watch. For a first automatic, the Seiko 5 Sports.
What size watch should a man wear?
Most men wear 38 to 42 mm comfortably. If your wrist is under about 16.5 cm, 36 to 40 mm usually looks better. Check the lug-to-lug length, which shouldn't overhang your wrist.
Which wrist should a man wear a watch on?
Usually the non-dominant wrist, so the left for right-handers. It keeps the watch out of the way and protects it from knocks. There's no rule, though; wear it where it's comfortable.
Is an automatic watch better than quartz?
Not more accurate or practical. Quartz is cheaper and keeps better time; an automatic appeals for its craftsmanship and needs no battery. Choose by what you enjoy.
Can one watch do everything?
Yes, if it's a steel sports watch with 100 m water resistance, such as the Tissot PRX, a Citizen Eco-Drive or a Seiko 5 Sports. It works with a suit, at the weekend and in the pool.
What is a good first watch for a man?
A G-Shock or Casio for a cheap, tough everyday watch; a Citizen Eco-Drive for a smart watch that never needs a battery; a Seiko 5 Sports for a first automatic. Choose by how you'll wear it.