Top 5 Swiss Made Watch Brands From $100 To Under $500 - The Best Classic Options From Each Brand

If you are looking for an affordable and high quality Swiss made watch, then this is the video for you!
No matter if you are a veteran watch collector or a newcomer to this deeply enjoyable and fulfilling hobby, there is something for everyone here. It is no secret that the Swiss are leaders in watchmaking and renowned for high quality, but you do not have to spend a fortune to own one of their great timepieces.
In this video I look at my top 5 favorite watch brands and recommend a selection from each of them. Whether you are looking to dip your toes for the first time with Swiss watches or you just want to add another affordable bit of fun to your collection, this is where you should start.
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[@peterclose3946]

Great video, there is a reason why you are the most subscribed to watch channel on KZbin. Keep up the great work. By the way, I am 18, and your videos have encouraged me to set a goal to own a Rolex GMT Master II by age 35. Thanks for the great videos.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Peter, deeply honored and inspired by your kind words. A VERY worthy goal and a great motivator in life. I like your style very much, and knowing I have 18 year olds with such good taste and determination among the gentry makes it all worth it! I know you will turn your dream into a reality. Onwards and upwards! Best regards, TGV

[@alexfogg236]

Peter Close , An excellent goal. I too hope to one day acquire a a Rolex GMT.

[@roamy3605]

I wanted a Rolex Sub at 33 years of age. I was single at the time but I had a chance to buy an old house that turned into a really good investment for down the road. But I was not into watches like I am now. I finally bought my first new Rolex at 60 years of age. A Rolex Exp. II a couple of years ago. Can't really say I'd change anything except I could have got the Rolex Sub for about $2,400 back in 1989. Bummer!

[@davidwain4949]

If only he didn’t pay for subscribers and views.

[@alanking5001]

David Wain What's that mean ?????🤔

[@UTSAVLAMGADE]

5. Hamilton 2:30 4. Victorinox 7:29 3. Glycine 12:09 2. Frédérique Constant 15:47 1. Tissot 20:56

[@bossonbartimee]

I'm owning my first Tissot Le Locle Powermatic 80 since almost a year (on Wednesday) and I can testify by wearing it almost every day that this an incredibly durable watch, thanks for all.

[@vaidasserg]

how accurate the time is for your Tissot?

[@antonhallergren588]

@@vaidasserg it's a powermatic 80 and I have never had one that ran outside cosc so yeah very accurate

[@vaidasserg]

Thats great to hear, thanks!

[@zohaibasif6274]

This man would be perfect for a spiderman villain

[@BenRangel]

Zohaib Asif Yeah, he could even play Wilhelm Defoe’s second son

[@varanid9]

Batman's villain: "The Clock King"

[@Acord718]

The time shifter

[@romeoop6881]

Zohaib Asif agree

[@barjake1508]

Green goblin

[@travislockman]

I own two Invicta watches. While on a cruise I watched a program they had running about fine watches, and it sparked my interest. I was very confused and thought you needed to spend above $5,000 to get a high quality swiss watch. I have been watching many videos on your channel about Invicta, affordable quality brands, and other things. I just wanted to thank you for your hard work because you really are doing a great job of promoting horology at all budget levels. I also like the fact that you only review what you have had experience with. You're awesome.

[@blkcpdconure]

Your channel is really helping me learn about watch collecting. I honestly thought that collectors were only buying high end watches. It’s cool to find out there are a lot of great watches under $1000 dollars. I will still have to save up for these watches but not very long. Awesome!

[@nishanthb6379]

I was eagerly waiting for Seiko at the number one spot, then realized it's a video about swiss brands But nothing can beat Seiko's at that price point!!

[@brandonblair6868]

I understand that part of liking a watch can have to do with the brand associated with it, but if your just looking at build quality and components, its tough to beat microbrands at this price point. What Helm, Phoibos and Zelos are offering for the price is almost unbelievable.

[@jrgen7144]

I'd say orient beats seiko in the sub-300 range and Tissot beats them in the over 300 range

[@antonhallergren588]

@@brandonblair6868 not in terms of historical value and reliability. Microbrands have been around for a few years Seiko is way over 100. It's also fully in house and cheap to service. Seiko is amazing value but you have to accept some minor issues like alignment (divers) and accuracy (mostly when not worn as a daily). I have a 7s26 in a skx that was made in 1998 and it's still running perfectly fine, only thing with it is the power reserve is like 30h or less.

[@antonhallergren588]

@@jrgen7144 I agree but not regarding microbrands then Seiko is still better value. The king turtle is an example of an amazing Seiko.

[@sickbrain]

I was just browsing for dress watches under $500 when this video popped up in my inbox, great timing. Extra points for TNG intro.

[@theurbangentry]

Harray! So glad I could help, happy hunting. Best regards, TGV

[@Cortesevasive]

consider Junghans , a little up , but worth it .

[@jameeyg87]

Your enthusiasm for watches is great. You've really helped me gain an appreciation for watches and alot of that is your demeanor and infectious passion. Thanks while I build my collection

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you James, that inspires me tremendously. Enjoy building that collection, I am excited for you! Best regards, TGV

[@RM-pg4js]

@@theurbangentry is it safe to buy tissot thru amazon Sir ?

[@ryokanda5392]

I love Tissot. Owned two: Le Locle (T006.407.16.033.00) as a formal watch Ballade (T108.408.22.037.00) as a daily watch They got a class, and I always receive compliments on them even from those have Rolex or other luxury brands

[@jownbey]

haha love the star trek intro. I'm going into my second full watching of the series, Piccard will always be my favorite captain/philosopher.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Jordan, I just finished DS9 for the millionth time and rather sad about it. I will be going back to TNG soon. Totally agree about Picard, Patrick Stewart is a legend! Best regards, TGV

[@uhrologe2596]

Viktorinox and HaNoWa (both suplier of swiss army) are may be both one of the nost unnoticed underrated and affordable swiss watch brands

[@cracer1231]

TGV you have out done yourself with this intro and the other recent special intro's have been incredible. You have truly raised the bar in not just content, but the style in which your videos are recorded and edited. Well done sir and keep it up

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much Chris for the kind words. That truly means a lot to me knowing my efforts are appreciated. Onwards and upwards my friend! Best regards, TGV

[@_bach97]

From j dilla playing in the background to a voice over with a super cool intro. Keep up the great work TGV - Bach

[@J-Kunath]

Already have 1 of those watches thanks to one of your earlier videos 👍, the Hamilton khaki king. Absolutely love the watch, my first step in the world of Swiss watches.... An Omega seamaster will happen someday! Thanks for the videos!

[@theurbangentry]

So glad to hear Josh, thank you for sharing that. A speedy too, that is a very powerful Swiss duo. I hope your dream becomes reality, I am sure it will. Best regards, TGV

[@udin737]

Great and informative video as always. Although I have jumped to higher level Swiss watches, I always respected the design of Oris and Tissot. One of the most affordable Swiss watch manufacturer with a great history behind it. Keep up the good work.

[@jdmnissan]

really appreciate u dude, the motivation and excitment when he talks abt the watches man.

[@shigaxn]

Your genuine enthusiasm really comes through the screen. Great stuff

[@RustyCohle]

I was happy to see Tissot on this list! I just bought the Tissot T17.1.526.32 PCR200 two days ago!!

[@monkeyman8265]

I'm blown away with your knowledge in watches and I have to say your taste is impeccable. Every watch you point out as a go I think I like it too and got to have it. I just don't have the money thats the problem.

[@maxmatuzoff]

Stumbled upon your channel, watched this video...and decided to start wearing watch again. I've stopped after having my Tissot stolen several years ago, that was a beatiful PRS model. 3 weeks later I think, and I'm a proud owner of Le Locle. Thank you, mate, for this. Keep up the good work!

[@tinman-uf4to]

Hello and good day sir. I stumbled upon your You tube channel after I bought my first luxury type watch this weekend. I've had many watches but never treated myself to a quality and heirloom type watch. I must say I am so happy that I find your channel. I've been binging all your videos. Such a breath of fresh air compared to other channels I've seen on You tube. I am a now a faithful subscriber and plan on starting my own little watch collection with your recommendations of course. Thanks for doing these videos. BT

[@tinman-uf4to]

Also you mentioned Wenger. I have a Wenger Sea force it's a 200M diver. Such a great Swiss watch. You can get them for around 150 dollars. Like I heard you say in another video. I would rather have my Wenger then some fake or counterfeit watch.

[@gregorysmith3683]

Received my Hamilton Khaki King H64455533 this week and can't stop looking at it. It is all in the detail and that is a quality that you do so well in your videos. Thanks.

[@theurbangentry]

Love hearing that! Thank you Gregory, such a cracking watch, I miss mine terribly, enjoy it my friend. Not sure if you saw it but I featured it in one of my earliest EDC videos. Best regards, TGV

[@markngamthangrum1321]

Watching your videos always bring a smile to my face. Seeing you enjoy what ya doing makes it enjoyable to watch your videos. Really enjoyed it. Glad you had tissot as no. 1, visodate is my favorite swiss watch under $500.

[@bradl2636]

Excellent video. How did I miss this earlier..? Definitely one of the BEST channels out there.

[@Ouroboros67]

One of your best videos for the breadth of content. Keep up the great work TVG!

[@mikeffl6606]

Bought my first SEIKO 5, Now aiming for the HAMILTON, Thanks to you sir, it all started because of you ...

[@agrainofsalt4889]

Man you're a gem! incredible classy style, perfect subtle music, very well thought and handed out information. Subbed!

[@mdunawaym]

I bought a Victorinox Swiss Army officer 1884, and I love it. I get more compliments on that watch than on any other.

[@digijams]

Bought a Seiko Turtle Prospex with stainless bracelet new for $294 at Kohls and love it, I bought it after listening to the channel and it is a great piece for what I paid. Thanks for the reviews Gentry, up to three watches haha but at least one is an Oyster date Rolex from 1979.

[@lgreenberg20]

I think these are really excellent choices. I love the classic looks and military styles. Well Done.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you sir! Best regards, TGV

[@just-a-sec7037]

GREAT VIDEO!..Have owned several Victorinox watches over the years. Not only do they make a great/TUFF watch but their bracelets are some of the best you will find on watches under $500... I always preferred bracelets up until I started following your channel and I must confess... I have become a huge NATO fan ... especially those from Blu Shark.

[@rgrosset]

Excelent work as usual, TGV! Keep up! Best wishes from São Paulo/Brazil.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Rafael, so cool to hear form Gentry in Brazil, very cool indeed! Best regards, TGV

[@vipnetworker]

I bought a Tissot Gentleman Powermatic last year, I think that came out after this video was made. It’s amazing. The quartz is $375, the automatic is $775, but I got mine on sale under $500. The auto is the best Swiss under $1,000 the quartz is best Swiss under $500 or tied with the new Tissot PRX.

[@mattcase9043]

Another enjoyable video, Tristano! You're bang on with the Victorinox. Bought a beautiful Infantry automatic the other day, and my father promptly relieved me of said watch, it was just that well done!

[@kjeldpedersen666]

Hi TGV Well, the Swiss watch industry has certainly overcome the quartz crisis. Stunning what you can get within this price range... I surely like them all but personal favorites is the Hamilton’s and the Tissot’s. In this globalized world some pessimistic folks often argue that everything is moving towards lower pricing but also less quality. That might be right to a certain extent, but I think that there’s another aspect to it too - namely that the really serious watch makers are making a great effort to make higher quality for a reasonable price. Who would choose some low quality no name watch over a Swiss piece for this amount of money? Well, no doubt many people will- but then you’re just not a watch enthusiast... As usual a fine video, my friend😊 Keep up the good work👍

[@arisgod2749]

Great list and TOTALY agree with you with number 1. I recently got the Seastar dive watch, OMG I love it. Great watch, even before one factors in the price.

[@BogeyTheBear]

The first Tissot I bought was a pocketwatch, then I got a steel Le Locle some years later. I really liked the understated elegance of the piece. The only peeve I have with it (or any watch in general) is that I prefer a totally uncomplicated watch-- to the point I prefer not to have a date window on the face. This led me to look around until I found a Tissot Open Heart, which happens to have the Powermatic 80 movement. I am delighted to see you touch upon these three Tissot examples in the video.

[@waldenswonderfulworldofwat3129]

I bought that Hamilton Khaki King auto after seeing your review. It’s shipping right now so I guess I’ll have to stalk the mailman until it comes. :)

[@theurbangentry]

Fantastic! You will love it, I would wish you a good week but I know you already will be having one. Thank you for sharing that, it motivates me greatly. Best regards, TGV

[@DavesWatchLove]

There's something very comforting about seeing you at your desk in your home office. Takes me back to a simpler time. :)

[@shaabaaz3083]

Man...i just entered the WatchLand gateway, for a lot of reasons, and you're one of them ;) love your intros, videos, music taste (as i'm a beatmaker myself, i often bounce my head/neck while listening to your intro hahaha)...like we say in french "mec, t'as la classe". So many thanks from Paris, you educated me ;)

[@Teachering]

Always a pleasure to watch. Very enjoyable. There is so much to learn.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you my friend, that is the best and most rewarding part. Best regards, TGV

[@mauriciotorres5875]

I am a world class traveler and I recently return from Tibet and Mt Everest, and my watch for my travels for the last 20 years has been a Candino crono. very very strong piece of machinery and very reliable, no matter if I am 40c below of sweating at 40. Never never never a problem with it. I have more than 120 watches in my collection mainly Seikos, Hamiltons, Tissots, Edox, Alpinas, Parnis, Pantor (all of them) and some Vostocks...oh and Candinos too, but my travel companion my beloved Candino.

[@danielmarshall63]

Just bought the Hamilton khaki mechanical, all down to this video,on sale with £100 off,lovely watch and great video, many thanks.

[@PiotrManasterski]

I'd add Certina

[@wordsmithgobshite3296]

Hanowa should be there too

[@oscarschiff9180]

Love your videos. Definitely the best watch channel here on youtube. Keep up the good work. Best regards here from Denmark.

[@rickewilde]

I always give my bank card to my girlfriend prior to watching your vids as the temptation to jump online and purchase a watch after your excellent reviews and top selections is almost irresistible lol.great vid as always TGV.

[@theurbangentry]

LOL, you are too wise Rick, I like your style. Thank you my friend. Best regards, TGV

[@demoneyeslaharl]

After getting orient and mostly seikos, a nice Swiss watch may complete my initial collection. This video is very useful! Thanks!

[@markoglavina2317]

Frederique constant! I have been watching your videos for a long time and have been anxiously waiting for a review on FC either the brand in general or a specific model. I personally own one and I absolutely love it! I feel it's very underated. I really hope you do a review soon!

[@hurricaneheli79]

Please do a part 2 & include Swatch. They helped save the Swiss watch industry.

[@tynchytemper9618]

I think Swatch were well represented here?

[@saywhatsaywhat1]

Tristano you knocked it out of the park with this one. Spot on recommendations but you keep trying to distract me away on my Speedy quest! I will not be derailed try as you might....

[@bubbab7792]

Great job TGV, I greatly appreciate your research into the presentation of your shows. True Gentry Sir. Great pick of the timepieces. Cheers.

[@johnivanp]

Very helpful. I like the way you went through a number of models for each brand. I think I’ll go shopping for Tissot now.

[@jameshavard5929]

Fantastic video, I love some of the absolute gems available at this price range. Although there are so many brilliant options available, and we could argue all day about alternatives, your selections were absolutely justified. Also thank you for swaying me to finally purchase an Omega Seamaster after considering it for sometime and I couldn't be happier. Keep up the great work.

[@nicholasortiz5880]

I SAT THROUGH A MVMT ADVERT JUST FOR YOU TGV!

[@theurbangentry]

Oh my gosh, you have my deepest respect sir! I am so sorry you had to witness such horror ;-) Thank you Nicholas, Best regards, TGV

[@YourGamingBrigade]

its funny how mvmt watches have garbage mvmt

[@koolwolf5963]

Joe Bryant wow battery quartz!!!1!1!

[@thekunzbrothers3084]

Vincero for me

[@zelphx]

You don't have ads BLOCKED???

[@charleshenrysmith7570]

I am a new subscriber and must say I love your passion for timepieces. Keep up the great content

[@vincewhite5087]

You make such informative & positive style vids. Great work!

[@tiredoffools8929]

Thank You TGV. Your knowledge of watches along with the stories you share are always educational and equally entertaining. I'd love a video on if you could only have 5 Watches right now which ones would they be? I'm sure your explanation as to why would be interesting.

[@Kukisan24]

Brilliant opening sequence once again. Very informative as always can't wait for the next upload .

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you sir! :D Best regards, TGV

[@NimsChannel]

Glad to see Victorianox mentioned, picked up an airboss 241506 yesterday for $160 in great condition.

[@fire_watch7735]

I just added a pre-owened Airman for a steal today and it's awesome😍 Thanks TGV... outstanding intro & video as always😉 You make it hard to watch any other Watch KZbin contributors for sure!

[@smr32061]

Great video! Your passion for all watches is excellent and infectious. I'm hooked!

[@tods.9947]

My brother in time. Another excellent piece of work. I have two Hammies, a Tissot PRC 200 chrono, and the Glycine Airman SST pumpkin world time. Maybe it’s time for an FC!

[@RiffDevin]

Great video, with an outstanding intro. I'm new to your channel, only discovered it this week and I have to say I'm really impressed. I've watched many of your vids already and I'm really getting into the hobby so thanks for a great introduction!

[@TimmyTantrum]

The Tissot PRC200 was my first Swiss watch as well... went with the automatic chronograph with black dial. I love this watch.

[@DarioCruzII]

Dope intro as usual my man. You've been killing it lately!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Dario, Very much appreciated, Best regards, TGV

[@BTCisKing.]

So glad I found your channel. Watches are my weakness...Keep up the great work.

[@mikecottrell7765]

This video helped me choose the auto hamilton jazzmaster l... clean and black, was my first watch over 2 years ago. Brilliant love it.

[@jfoz7602]

I love my Tissot Seastar 1000 powermatic 80. Looks great in every setting and I take it open water swimming and diving and it’s just great.

[@peterzwegat5380]

this is the best intro ever! I want it in every video :) the part beginning at 27 seconds is killing it! love every video best regards

[@johnprice909]

I so glad you mentioned Frederique Constant. I think they are fantastic watches for the money and like you I'm VERY tempted by their World Timer. As for your intro, being a Star Trek Nerd, had a good chuckle. Enjoyed the video - great idea, some great choices. Ciao, John

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you John, yup, a very big nerd indeed :D Do let me know if you pull that trigger on the world timer. I might have to get it just to review it, although, I REALLY shouldn't!! Best regards, TGV

[@andrewbrandenberger345]

Intro was pure gold!

[@carloscastillo3800]

great video as Always TGV.!! i have some of the brands on the video and is true they are awsome ...keep the good work !

[@richardt6675]

Spot on, TGV! Hamilton, Glycine and Frederique Constant are brands that, generally, punch above their weight class.

[@rickyls2]

Never disappoints. Best watch channel by far.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much Ricky, I am honored and flattered. Best regards, TGV

[@robertf4108]

A Victorinox Infantry Automatic was my first automatic and it hooked me hard. Going on 7 years with it now and it’s still a favorite. Very underrated pieces if you ask me.

[@jonicYt]

Great video, just what i've waited to come! Fits perfectly for my position in life. As a University student I can't afford most of the watches I would like to. Now rocking Seiko SRPB41J1 with Martini style nato. Now trying to find a nice "friend" for that blue Seiko, maybe a somekind of red one... Also I just fell in love with that Frederique Constant Worldtimer, just wow!

[@silverhawk911]

There's always a great looking affordable Swiss watch for everyone at different price points Now, nobody can give the excuse of saying "I'm late becos' watches are too expensive, I can't afford it" Great work TGV, keep it coming.

[@TheMaciekm]

I've got Tissot Everytime 40mm and yes it's a quartz, but it has a beautiful minimalist design, great quality and feel about it. Fully recommend!

[@MueezAhmad]

Love the shirt and sports coat, looking extra dapper today TGV!

[@sabate01]

Another interesting video. I check every morning for one of your gems.

[@dannyyap6258]

One of my favourite KZbinrs. Keep it up man!

[@theurbangentry]

I am deeply honored Danny, Thank you sir, onwards and upwards! Best regards, TGV

[@e.eeyore2862]

Thank you for this video! Well done. Loved the intro! OMG!

[@Pristatusgroup]

You've got a Willem Dafoe look going in this video. Thank you for all the fantastic videos! I have developed a true passion through your content and you are my preferred reviewer to watch.

[@scottsj4625]

So many videos you have. I really like your youtube channel. Some put down watches that cost less than 1000 dollars which I find annoying. You have such knowledge of watches that don't cost a fortune and lot about the history of brands.

[@lanceuppercut7436]

One of the points you constantly make is being able to hand down a watch to the next generation TGV. I totally agree with what you say. I’ve bought a Glycine Combat Sub Phantom (you displayed it in this video on the nato strap) and I really love it. So thin in comparison to other divers and has its own distinct presence in my opinion. I will feel proud to hand that piece down to the next gen in my family.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Lance, enjoy your combat sub, then next gen will be proud to have something you have worn. Onwards and upwards my friend! Best regards, TGV

[@Laump29]

Love FC, it's just absolutely classic. But now I found Hamilton is cool as well especially Khaki King. Great video as always, thank you so much!!

[@searam1]

Absolute class presentation, as are all of your videos. Thank you!

[@jamesbaum9775]

Love the channel, your knowledge of horology is amazing. Just bought a Hamilton Khaki Field King with the silver dial and love it. Using it as an every day watch when I don't want to wear my Seamaster Professional or my AVI 765.

[@linuxier1986]

I love the introduction this time. Keep doing this TGV dude

[@AvgJoeWatchReviews]

Great video. I own the LeLoche you pictured and it's a stunning piece.

[@omar10213245]

I have the Frederique Constant FC-303BN5B6B, with the black dial, stainless steel, 40mm, automatic, i absolutely love it, it's pretty much my daily-wearer these days.

[@r.daniels1165]

I like this background better than the tower! That Victorinox is dope!

[@vinceandtheresa1243]

As always, great video and super intro!

[@Draknareth]

Glad you mentioned Victorinox, I love my Airboss although that particular model would be difficult to find under $500.

[@jaysekhon8014]

The velvet looks pure class. Great video friend. Jay

[@abadmike]

Thanks for the vid, Cool intro. My personal favorites in the criteria would have to be Tissot and Hamilton tied for first. Atlantic makes the top five for me along with Victorinox and Glycine. Since we have a tie for first we will add Fredrique Constant since I recently purchased the Classic-FC225GT5B6. Keep up the good work.

[@teedoubleu2580]

Great Intro! And great Outfit! Real classy, gentry style!

[@anttonijamesnumminen8576]

Fab video TGV, please do do a part 2! Looking well by the way!

[@blackciv]

Love Victorinox! Great brand awesome watches!