Watches are far from being an exclusively male passion. More and more women are taking up the hobby, too. On top of that, the classic idea that “women’s and men’s watches” are two different things is quickly becoming antiquated. Many models are available in different sizes to fit all wrists. We can also see that both men and women enjoy trying out a wide range of sizes, which creates some cool overlaps.
There is still a difference in style sometimes, with gentlemen’s watches having more of a technical aesthetic, while ladies might prefer a softer style. Having said that, however, it’s safe to say that old, preconceived ideas of who wears what watch are out the door, opening up a world of almost unlimited possibilities. So where do you start with so many options? Today we’re highlighting a small selection of ladies’ watches that cost under $1,000: three mechanical watches, and three quartz timepieces. Each of them might very well be your perfect entry into the wonderful world of watches.
Top 3 Mechanical Women’s Watches Under $1,000
Hamilton Classic Boulton Mechanical – $850
If you like the classic style of the Cartier Tank and the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso, the Hamilton Classic Boulton Mechanical could be your perfect pick. Introduced in 1940, and now a true classic, this watch is a unisex Art Deco timepiece with a rectangular case and Roman numerals. The timepiece is powered by the manual-winding Hamilton H50 movement: Wind it only once every three days, because it’s got an impressive 80-hour power reserve.
Hand-wind this stylish piece twice a week. Both times, you’ll be reminded of its wonderful style and technology.
Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 35 mm – $700
Our second pick is the popular 35-mm Tissot PRX Powermatic 80. The successful PRX was first introduced in a 40-mm men’s version with a choice of quartz or mechanical movement. Last year, we also saw the long-awaited debut of the smaller 35-mm model that’s a perfect fit for both men and women.
This 1970s-inspired design has been beautifully updated, resulting in a stylish modern sports watch with an integrated strap. Today, we’re going with the mechanical version, which features a waffle pattern dial that creates depth and comes in a variety of colors. Whether you choose the quartz or the mechanical version, you can’t go wrong with the Tissot PRX. It’s also fascinating to see the Powermatic 80 movement in action through the case back. It adds an extra dimension to this fantastic timepiece.
Seiko Presage Cocktail Time SRP839 and SRP841 – $350
The Seiko Presage Cocktail Time started as a watch collection for men, with a style influenced by Tokyo cocktail bars (and their beverages). Over time, the Japanese brand added smaller ladies’ versions of these attractive timepieces.
The Cocktail Time models boast retro looks and beautiful, eye-catching dials inspired by famous cocktails. Two great examples are the SRP839 and SRP841, which have stunning soft pink and ice blue dials, respectively. With their sharp dauphine hands, box-shaped crystal, and comfortable stainless steel bracelets, these are great stylish options. And with the reliable automatic Seiko caliber 4R35 inside, you’ll be getting a truly outstanding timepiece for this price.
Top 3 Quartz Women’s Watches Under $1,000
Longines Conquest 34 mm – $850
Longines offers many mechanical and quartz options for both men and women, and we’ve spotted a great option for under $1,000. The Conquest line was first introduced in 1954, and has been part of the brand’s collection ever since. The current Conquest is a series of modern sports watches offering style and everyday comfort.
The 34-mm Conquest is one of four different size options with remarkable appeal. Pick from a dark blue, black, or silver dial with large numerals at 6 and 12 o’clock, and a date window at 3. The Longines Conquest is an excellent option from an illustrious watchmaker.
Certina DS Action – $500
Who says diving watches are only for men? Certina’s DS Action model line offers a variety of diving watches for slender wrists, like the 34.3-mm DS Action Diver, a stylish sports watch with a unidirectional stainless-steel dive bezel.
You can choose from six different versions with a variety of dial colors and two models with yellow and rose gold details that add a touch of style to these modern sports watches. Inside the watch is a COSC-certified quartz movement for ultimate precision, making this a great, versatile choice.
Frederique Constant Slimline Ladies Small Seconds – $650
Now that we’ve got two sports watches, we’ll close this list with the super-chic and classically styled Frederique Constant Slimline Ladies Small Seconds. This ultraslim watch has a traditional round case, an onion-style crown, a silver-colored dial with black printed Roman numerals, a small seconds complication at 6 o’clock, and a beautiful guilloché finish.
You can choose between a yellow gold, rose gold, or stainless-steel version. The quartz caliber FC235 powers each model and boasts a two-year battery life. Be sure to take a look at this ultra-chic Frederique Constant beauty. That closes our list of the best entry-level options for ladies. Which one will you be wearing?
