If you are looking for the best automatic watches under $200, you are in the right place. We break down four options that are perfect for any situation.
Note: the last option is over $200, but not by much, and it’s definitely worth the extra money.
Watches are a key component of men’s style, and an automatic watch is a convenience that takes away the need to continuously charge your timepiece.
What is an Automatic Watch?
An automatic watch is a mechanical watch powered by the physical energy generated from your arm’s natural movements. This means you do not have to manually wind the watch.
Automatic watches are great because of their convenience. They are reliable and don’t need to be charged or wound consistently like their manual counterparts.
Top 4 Best Automatic Watches
Below are The Bullfighter’s choices for the best automatic watches under $200 on the market. These each have their advantages over one another, but at the end of the day, they’re all awesome. We highly recommend the BUREI.
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Top Pick
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Leather Strap
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Inexpensive
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Upgrade Pick
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1. Top Pick: BUREI Automatic Stainless Steel Watch
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Case Diameter | 42 millimeters |
|---|---|
| Case Thickness | 12 millimeters |
| Band Material | Stainless Steel |
| Band Size | Men’s Standard |
| Band Width | 21 millimeters |
| Movement | Automatic |
| Water Resistant Depth | 50 Meters |
Why we like it:
The BUREI automatic stainless steel watch is classy, reliable, and very stylish. It has a stainless steel finish and goes well with just about any occasion. It is very easy to read the time in the dark thanks to its anti-reflective sapphire crystal and luminescent scale. The bottom line is that it looks good. Despite it being under $200, this watch could easily pass for a $500+ watch.
Who it’s for:
This watch is for guys who want a go-to timepiece they can rely on to look sharp at a formal or casual event. The versatility and charm it brings are second-to-none. If you need a beautiful automatic watch that’s reasonably priced, the BUREI is for you.
Pros:
- Anti-reflective sapphire crystal
- Very comfortable
Cons:
- More expensive than other options
2. Leather Strap: Fossil Townsman Mechanical Automatic WAtch
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 44 millimeters |
| Case Thickness | 12 millimeters |
| Band Material | Leather |
| Band Size | Men’s Standard |
| Band Width | 22 millimeters |
| Movement | Automatic |
| Water Resistant Depth | 165 Feet |
Why we like it:
Fossil’s Townsman mechanical automatic watch is a unique, casual, yet classy wrist watch. It wears comfortably on your wrist and works with a variety of outfits. One of the cooler features is the transparent watch face, showcasing the inner workings of theme chains. The Townsman is made with high quality leather and features a strap buckle closure.
Who it’s for:
This is for the guy that appreciates the leather strap and wants a timepiece that compliments a more laid-back style. Perfect for a night out or a business casual work event. This watch is also perfect for short recreational swims and showering, but not diving or snorkeling.
Pros:
- Cool design with transparent face
- Classy leather strap
Cons:
- No date window
3. Most Affordable: Invicta Automatic Pro Diver Stainless Steel WAtch
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Case Diameter | 40 millimeters |
|---|---|
| Case Thickness | 14 millimeters |
| Band Material | Stainless Steel |
| Band Size | 20 millimeters |
| Band Width | 20 millimeters |
| Movement | Automatic |
| Water Resistant Depth | 660 Feet |
Why we like it:
Invicta did a really nice job with their automatic Pro Diver stainless steel series. It is easy to read, strongly scratch-resistant, and, of course, water-resistant. In fact, it’s the most water-resistant watch on our list, with a resistant depth of 660 feet (200 meters).
Who it’s for:
This watch is for guys that enjoy water sports. especially diving. Aside from that, the watch is perfect if you don’t want to spend more than $100, but still have a statement piece that looks good. It’s also great if you’re an avid swimmer or diver, as the water resistance is very strong at 660 feet.
Pros:
- Very water resistant
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- To adjust the date and/or time, you must first unscrew the crown
4. Upgrade Pick: Seiko SNXL72 Seiko 5 Automatic
Despite the fact that the Seiko SNXL72 is just north of the $200 range, no list of the best automatic watches would be complete without a Seiko.
Seiko was founded by Japanese businessman Kintarō Hattori. He is one of the first and most important Japanese watchmakers in history.
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 37 millimeters |
| Case Thickness | 12 millimeters |
| Band Material | Gold-tone stainless steel |
| Band Size | Men’s Standard |
| Band Width | 20 millimeters |
| Movement | Japanese Automatic |
| Water Resistant Depth | 99 Feet |
Why we like it:
Seiko’s SNXL72 is another staple in their long reign of quality watches. It features a beautiful gold checkered dial protected by a Hardlex mineral crystal. The watch face also sports a date window at the 3 o’clock position. A brushed and polished gold-toned stainless steel link bracelet secures the watch on your wrist and closes with a fold-over clasp.
Who it’s for:
The SNXL72 is for the guy who wants to make a statement with a classy gold watch. This timepiece will draw attention and pair well when dressed up with a suit.
Pros:
- Precise 21-jewel Japanese-automatic movement
- Functions without a battery
Cons:
- Expensive
- Not shower or water submersion proof
Automatic Watch FAQ
Do Automatic Watches Require Batteries?
No, they do not. Their power comes from the arm’s movement that occurs naturally throughout the course of a day.
With that said, there are occasions where you may need to wind your automatic watch to ensure that the accuracy of the time is updated.
Do I need to wind my automatic watch?
There is no need to wind an automatic watch. Their energy is produced by the wearer’s natural movements.
How Long do Automatic Watches Last?
Automatic watches can last 40 to 50 hours without winding. However, if you wear your automatic watch regularly, you likely won’t need to worry about it dying. A decent automatic watch should be able to sit idle for at least 30 hours.
The majority of today’s automatic watches have a power reserve of 40 to 50 hours, with 48 hours being the most common.
