This article shows you how to find affordable vintage watch brands online without breaking the bank.
If you’ve been bitten by the vintage bug, especially regarding watches, you’re not alone. I’ve always loved the vintage watch trend, and I’ve been exploring it for years. Let me take you on a journey through my personal experiences, and along the way, you’ll discover some of the best affordable vintage watch brands you can snag for under $100.
My Journey with Vintage Watches
I remember the very first vintage watch I purchased—a Timex I scored for a mere $5 at a local thrift store years ago. It wasn’t a flashy brand, but I adored its character. The watch had been worn and weathered, but when I wiped it down with a microfiber cloth, its faded golden texture emerged, making me fall in love with it even more. It felt like I was wearing a piece of history.
Soon after, I was gifted a more expensive, trendy brand—Daniel Wellington, which cost around $150 at the time. Although this watch was sleek and stylish, I found myself gravitating back to my $5 Timex. There’s something so charming about the imperfections of a vintage watch, the way it tells a story that no modern watch can match.
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I didn’t stop there. My next purchase was another leather-banded Timex from the iconic Century 21 store in New York. Century 21 was one of the best places to find affordable vintage-looking watches, especially those with thin straps. I also started exploring flea markets like Smorgasburg in Williamsburg, where I found two vintage treasures for just $40. One of them, a Lasalle with a broken chain, turned out to be worth around $400 when I finally had it repaired this past summer. What a steal.
These experiences taught me that you never know what hidden gems you might find in the vintage watch world. Now, let’s dive into some of the best affordable vintage watch brands and models you should keep an eye on if you’re looking to start or expand your collection.
Affordable Vintage Watch Brands:
7 best vintage watches under $100
1. Timex – Classic and Affordable
Timex is the brand that started it all for me, and for good reason. Known for its durability and timeless design, you can find a vintage Timex for under $100 if you look in the right places, like flea markets or online auction sites. Whether it’s a leather strap or metal bracelet, Timex watches have that worn-in, classic look that never goes out of style.
Best finds:
- Timex Cavatina Buy On Amazon
- Timex Kendall Buy On Amazon
Both of these models offer a retro aesthetic with the reliability that Timex is known for. Both oval dial have a resemblance of Cartier Baignoire.
2. Seiko – Precision Meets Style
Seiko is another trusted brand with a strong vintage presence. What makes Seiko unique is its balance between craftsmanship and affordability. Even if you’re on a tight budget, you can easily score a vintage Seiko for under $100, especially if you’re willing to do some digging.
Best finds:
- Seiko Tank Buy on Amazon
- Seiko SWR048 (two toned steel) Shop on Amazon
These models are widely available and offer that vintage feel with modern precision. Seiko Tank is especially our favorite watch regarding Cartier Tank Affordable Alternatives.
3. Casio – A Cult Favorite
Who can forget Casio? This brand, especially known for its digital watches, has a strong following in the vintage watch community. You can find everything from classic digital pieces to more intricate, analog designs.
Best finds:
- Casio Women’s LA670WA Buy on Amazon
- Casio, Brown, Strip (vintage models) Purchase on Amazon
Casio’s vintage watches can easily be found online, sometimes even under $50. The digital ones, in particular, have become iconic over the years.
4. Citizen – Simple Elegance
Citizen is known for its minimalist and elegant designs. Vintage Citizen watches, especially from the 1970s and 80s, are still incredibly popular. You can find a good selection of these watches for under $100, especially if you’re browsing secondhand markets.
Best finds:
- Citizen Quartz Womens Watch, Stainless Steel, Classic, buy on Amazon
- Citizen Eco-Drive Axiom Womens Watch check out on Amazon
These watches often have classic designs and durable mechanics, making them an affordable investment.
5. Fossil – Retro Appeal
Fossil may not be as old as some of the other brands on this list, but it has a strong vintage aesthetic, especially in its earlier models. You can find Fossil watches at vintage stores, or even at online resale shops, for a fraction of their original price.
Best finds:
- Fossil Carlie check out on Amazon
- Fossil Minimalist Jacqueline buy on Amazon
If you’re into leather straps and minimalist designs, Fossil’s vintage pieces are perfect for your collection.
6. Lasalle – A Hidden Gem
As I mentioned earlier, Lasalle was a surprising discovery for me. I bought a broken Lasalle watch without realizing it was worth so much more. Lasalle watches are rare finds, and even though many people aren’t familiar with the brand, their vintage pieces can be worth a lot more than you might expect.
Best finds:
- Lasalle Quartz
These watches often have intricate designs and are worth every penny if you can find them in good condition.
7. Gruen – Underrated and Affordable
Gruen watches are often overlooked, but they offer some of the best value in the vintage market. Known for their craftsmanship, Gruen vintage watches can still be found for under $100, especially in secondhand shops or online marketplaces.
Best finds:
- Gruen Precision Buy on eBay
- Gruen Curvex (This style looks more like a Tank but good to mention if you are a Cartier lover)
Gruen watches have a distinct style that feels vintage without being overly trendy.
Why the Vintage Watch Trend is Here to Stay
The charm of vintage watches lies in their history, character, and uniqueness. Unlike modern watches that you can find anywhere, each vintage watch has a story behind it—whether it’s been passed down through generations or found at a flea market. And the best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune to own a piece of this trend. With so many affordable vintage watch brands out there, you can build a collection that’s not only stylish but also rich in history.
When you wear a vintage watch, you’re not just wearing a timepiece—you’re wearing a piece of art, a story, a memory. So the next time you find yourself at a thrift store or browsing online for deals, keep your eyes open for these gems. You never know when you might stumble upon a hidden treasure.
