The 25 Best Watches Under $1,000

Few would have expected the Omega x Swatch Moonswatch to create such a furor both in and out of watch fandom when it was released in 2022, yet in just a few years, it has become one of the most desirable watches today due to its initial scarcity, dual brand recognition, and attractive price. Thankfully, it’s much easier to buy a Moonswatch than when it was first released, including online, and the days of needing to pay scalpers for one through eBay are happily over.

The Moonswatch takes its name and design from the classic Omega Speedmaster, also known as the Moonwatch, due to it being the first watch on the moon. Unlike the Omega Speedmaster, it’s made of bioceramic (which feels a lot like plastic), doesn’t have a sapphire crystal, has a quartz movement, is only water resistant to 30 meters, and most definitely hasn’t been to the moon. None of this matters, though, as there’s so much to like about the Moonswatch, from how it bridges the divide between normal people and watch fans, how it’s practically guaranteed to stir up some kind of emotion, and that there’s almost certainly a color scheme or design feature that will appeal. Just don’t expect it to have the best build quality, or for it to feel anywhere near as expensive as its price suggests.

Some also complain about the Velcro strap, but the branding looks great, and it’s perfect to throw on your wrist when you’re in a hurry. Once it’s on, it’s so light you barely know it’s there. A rubber alternative strap is available if you do hate the Velcro, though. Even if you haven’t heard of any other brands and watches on our list, I bet you have heard of the Omega x Swatch Moonswatch, but don’t pass it off as just clever marketing. It’s a Swatch at heart, and that makes it a fun and affordable gateway into watch ownership.