In this age of high-tech smartwatches, Automatic watches have held their own timeless charm and become synonymous with trustworthy wrist-wear that lasts considerably longer than most digital smartwatches. But, finding a decent automatic timepiece is no easy endeavour. Which is why, we have done a roundup of 10 of the best automatic watches that will come in handy for all occasions — be it outdoor excursions, water sports or business trips.
Since an automatic or self-winding watch is a mechanical timepiece dependant on the natural motion of the wearer to obtain energy and run smoothly, it is pertinent to make a prudent buying decision. Fret not, all the elegant automatic watches on our list run the gamut from trendy to classic, and most importantly, keep on ticking long after the battery runs out. So, let’s get started.
10 of the Best Automatic Watches in 2024
1) Tag Heuer Formula 1 Calibre 5 Black Titanium
A perfect confluence of modern, ultra-sleek and robotic watches, the Tag Heuer Formula 1 is worth every single penny. Comprising a beautiful dial, strap, bezel and luxurious black titanium carbide coated steel case, this wristwear is a masterpiece in its own right.
For starters, the watch boasts polished hand-applied indexes, and oversized 12” and 6” numerals with luminescent markers.
What’s more, it comes with an embedded monochrome “TAG Heuer” brand logo, angled date window at 3 o’clock and printed minutes replete with red touches on the flange.
Legendary watchmaker Seiko doesn’t disappoint classic watch enthusiasts one bit with this alluring diver’s watch. The Seiko Prospex SRP775 emulates the classic design on one of Seiko’s highly collectible vintage divers, and is elegant to the hilt.
Sporting a neat and stripped down look as opposed to most diver watches from the Seiko brand, the Prospex SRP775 is one of the best automatic watches under $500 on the market right now.
It comes with a robust vintage case that will prove to be a trusted workhorse which can be a part of your collection for decades. Plus, the current pricing is icing on the cake!
3) Victorinox ‘Alliance’ Swiss Automatic
If you are seeking a timepiece with Swiss-made automatic functioning, the Victorinox ‘Alliance’ Swiss Automatic is worth its weight in gold, so to speak.
This super-sleek, modern and novel timepiece comprises a silver stainless steel wristband which perfectly aligns with the dusty dark grey dial.
It also sports a polished 40mm stainless steel case, military time, stunning anti-glare sapphire crystal, self-winding movement and a handy screw-in and see-through case back. What’s more, this watch doesn’t annoy you with an incessant ticking noise.
4) Frederique Constant ‘Runabout’ Automatic
Sporting a modest dark-grey leather strap, the Frederique Constant Runabout also packs in the technical heft that defines an automatic watch.
For starters, this beautiful timepiece boasts a convex sapphire crystal, applied black luminous indexes, and polished 43mm stainless steel three parts case that will be cherished by watch lovers who long for idiosyncratic aesthetics.
Light as a feather and stylish to the brim, this dashing timepiece is water resistant up to 50 meters and will surely attract eyeballs aplenty.
5) Ball Engineer ii Green Berets Watch
This swiss-crafted timepiece comes with chronometer-certified movements and is renowned as one of the best automatic watches boasting rock-solid construction.
Interestingly, being a part of the Ball Watches franchise that are renowned for their potent and multicolored tritium lumes, this timepiece also glows in the dark and low-light conditions.
All together, it an apt and stealthy wristwatch for all kinds of physical excursions – be it long treks or diving expeditions.
6) Hamilton Khaki King Automatic Watch
The traditional Hamilton military watch gets a royal makeover in the form of the Khaki King Automatic which is touted as the “ultimate explorer’s watch”.
Boasting a 40mm case with anti-glare sapphire dial window, this nifty timepiece is water resistant up to 50 meters and sports a round black dial with easy-to-read day and date display at 12 o’clock.
Swimmers, outdoor activity enthusiasts and runners will find this rugged timepiece to be a favourable purchase strictly going by its practicality and no-frills attached time display.
7) Alpina AL750N4E6B Alpiner Automatic Silver Watch
With a mesmerizing scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass and rich blue sunray dial, the Alpina AL750N4E6B Alpiner Automatic watch is a great example where substance meets style.
Not to mention, it boasts a 50m water resistant stainless steel case, luminescent silver-tone hands and indices as well as a small seconds sub-dial displayed at the 9 o’clock position.
Visually enchanting and dashing to the core, the Alpina Automatic is a modern smart watch with a slick black face and matching silver straps keeping in tradition with a long line of Alpina hybrid smartwatches.
8) Seiko 5 Black Dial Automatic Watch
Perhaps the most affordable timepiece on our list of the best automatic watches under $300, Seiko has introduced the 5 Black dial automatic watch as a unique modern timepiece with bold aesthetics.
It boasts a vivid black dial that gels well with a silver wristband and stainless steel casing.
What’s more, this nifty timepiece sports a unidirectional bezel, durable Hardlex crystal and comes with water resistance of up to 100m.
Other noteworthy features include luminous markers, day/date display, safety lock and a slick push-button deployment clasp.
Want a comfy and elegant watch with a stunning black finish that will work with everything in your closet?
Tudor’s Black Bay dark watch is a matte black wonder that looks ultra-modern, and yet remains a minimalist’s dream come true.
For instance, its winding crown and angular hands are actually an ode to Tudor watches of yore. All together, fans of classic watches will definitely appreciate this timepiece.
10) Bulova 97A109 Automatic Watch
A stunning example of self-winding mechanical watches, the Bulova 97A109 Automatic comprises 21-jewel movement that is visible through its on-dial aperture.
Furthermore, this nifty timepiece boasts a patterned black dial, stainless steel case, rose-gold finish, domed crystal, rose-gold accents, and luminous hands and markers.
You would be in awe of its traditionalist brown leather strap and the fact that it comes with a 3-year limited warranty and water resistance of up to 30m makes it a steal at current pricing.
And…that’s a wrap! Did you like our review of the best automatic watches of 2024? Let us know in the comments.
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