Quartz watches are absolutely worth buying in 2026. A battery-powered quartz movement keeps time to within seconds a month, costs a fraction of a comparable automatic, and needs almost nothing from you after you put it on. That is the short answer, and the rest of this guide explains which models earn the money.
Over the past few months our team has worked through 14 quartz watches spanning cheap field pieces, dive tools, dress watches, chronographs and solar models, comparing case size, movement, water resistance, crystal type and day-to-day wearability. Everything below is based on manufacturer specifications and the patterns that show up in tens of thousands of owner reviews. Last updated for September 2026.
This guide is written for people who want a watch that works: students and first-time buyers, anyone whose wrists get scratched on a daily beater, people who need a readable dial at 6am, and gift buyers who do not want to explain a complicated watch. If you already own a mechanical watch, you are not the target reader, though we do answer the accuracy and snobbery questions honestly further down.
If your real interest is tracking rather than timekeeping, our picks for the [best cycling GPS watches](https://acfc.org/best-cycling-gps-watches/) and the [best GPS running watches](https://acfc.org/best-gps-running-watches/) cover that side. For pace-based training, the [best watches for running](https://acfc.org/best-watches-for-running/) guide goes deeper on lap metrics.
Top 3 Picks for the Best Quartz Watches in 2026
Casio MDV106-1A Duro
- 200m water resistance
- Screw-down crown and caseback
- Three year battery
- Resin band
Fossil Nate JR1401
- Working chronograph subdials
- 50mm case
- Removable bracelet links
- 50m water resistance
Invicta Pro Diver 30021
- Japanese PC32 quartz movement
- 100m water resistance
- Unidirectional bezel
- 43mm steel case
Quick Overview: All 14 Quartz Watches (September 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Casio MDV106-1A Duro |
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 Timex Expedition Scout TW4B01900 |
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| Fossil Nate JR1401 |
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 Citizen BI5017-50E |
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 Bulova Crystal Octava 98C126 |
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 Citizen Promaster BN0151-09L |
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 Citizen Corso AT2141-52L |
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 Seiko SUR307 |
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| Invicta Pro Diver 30021 |
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 Bulova Classic 96B149 |
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 Tissot PRX T1374101104100 |
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 Invicta 6620 |
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 Bulova Modern 98D144 |
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 Fossil Riley ES3203 |
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1. Casio MDV106-1A Duro – The Best Quartz Watch Overall
Casio Men’s MDV106-1AV 200M Black Dive Watch (MDV106-1A)
200m water resistance
Screw-down crown and caseback
Three year battery
Resin band
Pros
- Genuine 200m rated dive capability
- Very legible lume markers
- Lightweight at 3.25 ounces
- Three year battery on one lithium cell
Cons
- Resin band feels basic next to steel
- Two hand layout with no chronograph
- Date window sits at 3 o'clock only
The MDV106 is the watch I hand to friends who say they do not need a watch. It is a 200-meter rated dive watch with a screw-down crown and screw-down caseback, a lume set you can read in the dark, and a three-year battery life on a single included lithium cell. Very few watches at any price combine all three.
Owner reviews are close to unanimous, with 86% five-star ratings across more than 32,000 entries. The recurring praise is durability, legibility and the fact that it looks like a proper dive tool rather than a cheap fashion piece. The MDV106 also holds a top-five position in its category on Amazon, which is unusual for anything this simple.
Mechanically it is a no-nonsense three-hand display with a date window at 3 o’clock, an anti-reverse bezel and a sweep second hand. The case measures in at a slim 0.48 inches thick and the whole watch tips the scales at 3.25 ounces, which is why it disappears on the wrist during a shift. Water resistance is rated to 200 M, or 660 feet, so swimming and showering are not a worry at all.
Who the MDV106 suits
It suits anyone who wants one watch for everything: the pool, the trail, the office on a Friday. The resin strap dries quickly and shrugs off sweat, and the bezel is legible without being fiddly. It also works as a first watch because there is nothing to learn and nothing to service beyond a battery change years down the line.
Where the MDV106 falls short
The resin band is the honest weak point. It feels thin next to a solid steel bracelet, and it will stretch over time if you wear it daily. The dial is also deliberately plain, so anyone chasing chronograph pushers or complications will be disappointed. Buy it for accuracy, water resistance and effortlessness rather than styling.
2. Timex Expedition Scout TW4B01900 – The Best Value Field Watch
Timex Men’s Expedition Scout 40mm Watch – Gray Case Black Dial with Black Genuine Leather Strap
INDIGLO backlight
Full Arabic numerals
Leather strap
40mm case
Pros
- Military field dial with full Arabic numerals
- INDIGLO backlight for dark reading
- Genuine leather avoids skin irritation
- Light at 2.24 ounces
Cons
- Date numerals are tiny
- Mineral crystal scratches easily
- Leather strap stains and needs a tool to swap
The Timex Expedition Scout is the cheapest way to get a real field watch, and the specification is unusually honest for the money. You get a 40mm case, a black dial with full Arabic numerals, a date window at 3 o’clock and a 24-hour track on the dial edge. The INDIGLO push-button backlight is the feature that keeps it relevant decades later.
With more than 30,000 reviews and a 4.3 average, this is the most scrutinised watch in our list, and the lower score reflects real complaints rather than hype. Owners love the legibility of the numerals and the comfort of a genuine leather strap against skin. The most repeated gripes concern the very small date numerals and the mineral glass crystal, which picks up scratches over time.
A handful of owners also report slower drift in accuracy after several months of use, which is worth factoring in if you need precision. At 2.24 ounces this is among the lightest watches here, and the full Arabic numerals mean you can read it in poor light without hunting for indices. The mineral glass crystal is mid-tier scratch protection, so this is not the watch for rough workshop use.
Who the Expedition Scout suits
It suits readers who want the classic military-inspired look, prefer a strap that does not trap sweat against metal, and like a watch that reads instantly rather than by inference. It is a strong gift for a parent or partner who has never owned a watch and might be fussy about comfort.
Where the Expedition Scout falls short
The tiny date window is the flaw owners complain about most, especially as eyesight changes. Leather also needs replacing eventually, and swapping it requires a strap tool. If you want sapphire glass, a screw-down crown or a more accurate movement, this is not the watch.
3. Fossil Nate JR1401 – The Best Budget Chronograph
Fossil Men’s Nate Quartz Watch, Stainless Steel Watch for Men
Working chronograph subdials
50mm case
Removable links
50m rating
Pros
- Subdials are genuinely functional
- All-black matte styling is versatile
- Removable bracelet links allow a custom fit
- Reads clearly on larger wrists
Cons
- Only 50m water resistance
- 50mm case overwhelms smaller wrists
- Mineral crystal scratches over the years
The Fossil Nate is the surprise pick in this roundup. It is a working quartz chronograph with a matte black dial and a 50mm case, and it turns up in more daily wear situations than its size suggests. 79% of owners give it five stars across more than 23,500 reviews.
Bracelet links can be removed, so a large case on a small wrist is at least partially adjustable. The all-matte finish is the styling trick that makes it work with both a T-shirt and a button-down. Water resistance is only 50 M, which means splashes and showering, nothing more.
Specs worth knowing: a 50mm case on a 24mm band width, a scratch-resistant mineral crystal, an accurate quartz movement with a chronograph analog display, and a brushed jet steel finish on the case. It weighs 10.4 ounces, which is substantial and is the main reason it feels like a tool rather than a costume.
Who the Nate suits
It suits readers with larger wrists who want stopwatch function without leaving the affordable end of the market. It also works well as a first chronograph, because the subdials actually run rather than being decorative. If you want something subtle for the office, the matte black is about as neutral as a chrono gets.
Where the Nate falls short
Fifty millimetres is genuinely big, and it will overhang a smaller wrist no matter how many links you remove. The 50m rating rules out swimming, and the mineral crystal will show scuffs if you work with your hands on it. It is a watch for people who already know they like large cases.
4. Citizen BI5017-50E – The Best Budget Dress Watch
Citizen Analog Black Dial Men’s Watch-BI5017-50E
Japanese quartz movement
40mm case
Locking crown
50m rating
Pros
- Clean three-hand dress design
- Japanese quartz movement
- 40mm works on most wrists
- Locking crown adds security
Cons
- Only 50m water resistance
- No date or chronograph
- Mineral crystal rather than sapphire
The Citizen BI5017 is a 40mm stainless steel three-hand watch with a Japanese quartz movement, and it is the most conventional recommendation in this guide. It has no complications at all, which is precisely why it works: there is nothing to set, nothing to break and nothing to explain.
80% five-star ratings across more than 4,100 reviews describe it as dependable and unfussy. Owners highlight the clean proportions, the accuracy of the Japanese movement and the ease of resizing the bracelet. The criticisms are consistent with the design: minimal water resistance and a deliberately simple dial.
The locking crown is a nice detail that most watches in this class skip. When you release the screw, the crown pops out slightly and stops in its normal position, which means the watch is less likely to get knocked out of adjustment. The case is 40mm in diameter and the whole thing weighs 5.29 ounces, which suits an office all day.
Who the BI5017 suits
It suits interview days, weddings, and anyone who wants a watch that disappears under a cuff. The 40mm case is the sweet spot that works on nearly every wrist, which is why it is such a safe recommendation. It is also a strong choice as a graduation or promotion gift.
Where the BI5017 falls short
There is no date window, no chronograph, no power reserve indicator. Fifty metres means showering only. If you want a quartz watch that also tells the day of the week, or one you can wear in the sea, you will need to look further up the list.
5. Bulova Crystal Octava 98C126 – The Best Pave Dial Chronograph
Bulova Men’s Crystals Octava Gold Tone Stainless Steel 6-Hand Multi-Function Quartz Watch Style: 98C126
306 crystal accents
Six hand day-date
Gold-tone steel
30m rating
Pros
- 306 pave crystal accents add real sparkle
- Six hand display with day date and 24 hour time
- Gold-tone case feels upscale
- Three year Bulova warranty
Cons
- Only 30m water resistance
- Mineral crystal scratches
- Large multi-register dial suits bigger wrists
The Crystal Octava is the watch to buy when you want an event that is not quite formal but definitely dressy. It carries 306 pave crystal accents across a mineral crystal, set into a gold-tone stainless steel case, and it registers 86% five-star ratings from just over 1,100 reviews. That is the highest five-star share in this roundup.
The complication set is unusually full for the money: six hands, a day display, a date and a 24-hour indicator. Owners treat it as an affordable statement piece rather than a tool, and the general response is that it looks far more expensive than it is. Bulova backs it with a three-year limited warranty.
Water resistance is 30 M, so this is a dry-weather watch. The case measures 6 x 6 x 6 inches in the listing and weighs 8 ounces, which tells you it is not a slim piece. The day and date are genuinely useful at a glance, and the 24-hour subdial reads neatly for anyone who works around the clock.
Who the Crystal Octava suits
It suits people whose office dress code leans smart, and anyone who wants a wrist accessory to do the talking at a party. The gold-tone finish pairs naturally with gold jewellery. It is also a reliable gift when you are not sure what someone likes in a watch.
Where the Crystal Octava falls short
Thirty metres is the weakest rating among the watches we recommend, so keep it away from water entirely. The multi-register dial is busy, and reviewers with small wrists or minimalist taste call it loud. The mineral crystal is also the softest glass option here.
6. Citizen Promaster BN0151-09L – The Best Quartz Watch for Diving and Outdoors
CITIZEN Men’s Eco-Drive Promaster Dive 4 44mm Stainless Steel BN0151-09L
Eco-Drive solar power
ISO certified 200m
12mm profile
Luminous hands
Pros
- Solar Eco-Drive removes battery changes
- ISO certified dive rating to 200m
- Bright lume that lasts hours
- Comfortable 12mm profile
Cons
- Supplied rubber strap is stiff
- 20mm lug width limits strap choices
- Flat matte dial colours look duller in person
The Promaster BN0151 is the pick if you want a genuine dive watch and never want to change a battery again. Eco-Drive converts light through a photovoltaic ring under the dial, so as long as it sees daylight, it runs. Eighty-three percent of owners give it five stars across more than 8,800 reviews.
The dive credentials are the real differentiator: ISO certification, a rotating bezel, luminous hands and markers, and 200 M water resistance. Long-term owners working demanding jobs report years of continuous pool or mountain use with no battery service and only cosmetic marks on the crystal.
The case is a comfortable 12mm thick with an offset crown that keeps it from catching on a wrist guard, and the anti-reflective mineral crystal takes abuse better than sapphire would. The 3-hand date layout is uncluttered, and Citizen includes a five-year limited warranty, which is longer than most warranties in this guide.
Who the Promaster suits
It suits divers, kayakers, pool staff and anyone who works outdoors and forgets about watches until something breaks. The 12mm profile means it slips under a sleeve, which the thicker dive watches in this list do not. It is also a good travel watch because you never have to hunt for a spare cell.
Where the Promaster falls short
The supplied rubber strap is stiff, and plenty of owners replace it with a NATO or perlon strap straight away. A 20mm lug width is narrower than ideal if you want a heavier steel bracelet. The matte dial colours are less vivid in person than in product photography, and the packaging is plastic-heavy.
7. Citizen Corso AT2141-52L – The Best Solar Sapphire Chronograph
Citizen Men’s Classic Corso Eco-Drive Watch, Chronograph, 12/24 Hour Time, Date, Sapphire Crystal, Stainless/ Blue Dial
Eco-Drive chronograph
Sapphire crystal
100m rating
Over-charge prevention
Pros
- Sapphire crystal resists scratching
- No battery service ever
- Timekeeping holds within seconds
- Dial has strong hand-to-dial contrast
Cons
- Stopwatch caps at 60 minutes
- Setting procedure is complicated
- White date background clashes with the dark dial
The Corso is the most complete solar watch here. You get a one-second chronograph measuring up to 60 minutes, 12/24 hour time, a date, a sapphire crystal, 100 M water resistance and Eco-Drive solar power with an over-charge prevention feature that allows unlimited charging. 81% of the 2,760 reviewers give it five stars.
Owners who have worn it for years report zero battery replacement and timekeeping within a few seconds, and several describe it as their daily driver among non-smart watches. The sapphire crystal is the headline for anyone who has worn mineral glass before and seen it cloud up. Removable bracelet links make sizing straightforward.
The dial comes in richly textured blue or green with strong contrast between hands and dial, which is what keeps a solar watch readable. The pushers have a satisfying click that reviewers single out. Citizen includes a five-year limited warranty, and the case weighs 4.94 ounces with a slim profile for a chrono.
Who the Corso suits
It suits anyone who wants a dressy chronograph with no battery anxiety and no crystal scratches. The combination of sapphire and solar power means it is a watch you can buy once. It also works well as an office chrono because it stays formal without looking severe.
Where the Corso falls short
The stopwatch tops out at 60 minutes, which matters if you need longer timing. The setup procedure is fiddly enough that new owners end up in manuals and forums, and the 24-hour subdial is oversized. The white date window background also fights with the dark dial.
8. Seiko SUR307 – The Best Affordable Sapphire Quartz Watch
Seiko SUR307 Watch for Men – Essentials – Silver Dial with Sunray Finish, Date Calendar, LumiBrite Hands, Stainless Steel Case & Bracelet, and 100m Water Resistant
Sapphire crystal
Sunray silver dial
Caliber 6N52
100m rating
Pros
- Sapphire crystal at an entry-level price
- Clean sunray dial looks more expensive than it is
- Caliber 6N52 keeps exact time
- 20mm lug width makes strap swaps easy
Cons
- Bracelet quality is mediocre
- LumiBrite glow fades within minutes
- Sapphire is highly reflective without coating
- 40mm suits larger wrists
The Seiko SUR307 gets you a sapphire crystal and a sunray silver dial in a stainless steel case, which is an unusual combination in the entry tier. It runs on Seiko’s caliber 6N52 quartz movement and is rated to 100 M. With 83% five-star ratings, the watch itself performs, though the review base of 452 is the smallest here.
Reviewers repeatedly describe the SUR307 as the best value dress quartz they have owned, and the sunray finish catches light in a way that photographs badly and looks great in person. LumiBrite hands cover low light. The date calendar is a simple window, and the 100m rating means it survives swimming and showering.
At 8.8 ounces the build stays comfortable all day, and the 20mm lug width makes swapping in a leather or NATO strap easy when you want it less formal. It is a light, unfussy watch with a clean dial that suits people who find watch branding loud. That combination of sapphire and strap flexibility is what makes it a repeat recommendation.
Who the SUR307 suits
It suits office workers who want a scratch-resistant crystal without paying a premium tier price. It also suits anyone who likes changing straps to match the occasion, since the lug width accepts most standard 20mm accessories. It makes a thoughtful gift because it feels more elevated than the number suggests.
Where the SUR307 falls short
The bracelet is the weak link and can rattle on the wrist, so budget for a strap swap or a tightening. LumiBrite fades after only a few minutes in darkness, and the sapphire crystal has no anti-reflective coating, which means it catches glare at angles. At 40mm it is not ideal for genuinely small wrists.
9. Invicta Pro Diver 30021 – The Best Value Steel Dive Watch
Invicta Mens Pro Diver Quartz Watch, Two Tone, 30021
Japanese PC32 movement
43mm steel case
Unidirectional bezel
100m rating
Pros
- Accurate Japanese PC32 quartz movement
- Assembled in Japan with steel and gold tone construction
- Flame Fusion crystal resists impact
- Works as a unisex gold-tone option
Cons
- Heavy at 170 grams
- Date magnifier can distort the numerals
- Listing details on crown and rating are sometimes wrong
The Invicta Pro Diver puts a Japanese quartz movement and an assembled-in-Japan case into a 43mm steel dive watch, which is an unusual amount of specification at this price. Eighty-three percent of nearly 20,000 reviewers give it five stars, and owners describe it as a watch that survives real abuse.
The specifics are good: a unidirectional stainless steel bezel with a blue and gold top ring, a Flame Fusion crystal that handles knocks and scratches well, luminous hands and hour markers, a magnified date window and 100 M water resistance for surfing, swimming and snorkeling. Several owners note that the watch they received has a screw-down crown even where the listing implies otherwise.
The band is steel and gold tone stainless steel with adjustable links, a 22mm width and a fold-over safety clasp, measuring 185mm long. The caliber is a Japanese PC32 quartz movement with an included SR626SW battery. It runs to a 170 grams on the wrist, which is heavy and part of why it feels like a solid tool rather than a cheap watch.
Who the Pro Diver suits
It suits readers who want a steel dive watch with a gold-tone look that works as a unisex option despite the mens listing. It is a good match for beach and water use given the 100m rating and the sturdy crystal. Many owners report taking it cliff jumping and snorkeling without damage.
Where the Pro Diver falls short
At 170 grams it is heavier than nearly every other watch in this guide, which is noticeable on a small wrist. The date magnifier distorts the numerals, and the bezel is push-pull rather than screw-down. Brand pricing history is worth knowing about too: Invicta is frequently criticised by enthusiasts for constant discounting, so a deal is not the same as scarcity.
10. Bulova Classic 96B149 – The Best Quartz Watch for Small Wrists
Bulova Men’s 3-Hand Calendar Date Quartz Watch, Patterned Dial, 38mm, Style: 96B149
38mm case
Domed mineral crystal
Calendar date
30m rating
Pros
- 38mm case suits smaller wrists
- Patterned dial adds visual interest
- Light at 4 ounces for long wear
- Bracelet links are easy to remove
Cons
- Bracelet arrives with all extra links
- Only 30m water resistance
- Domed mineral crystal scratches easily
The Bulova Classic 96B149 is the answer for anyone whose wrist is overwhelmed by a 40mm-plus case. At 38mm it reads as a proper dress watch rather than a dinner plate, and the patterned dial keeps it from looking plain. Eighty-three percent of 1,582 reviewers give it five stars.
It comes from Bulova’s vintage-inspired Classic Collection with a three-hand display, a calendar date, a domed mineral crystal and silver-tone stainless steel. The design sits comfortably in both casual and semi-formal settings, and owners buying it as gifts report it consistently looks far pricier than it is.
At 4 ounces, it is one of the lighter watches here and it stays comfortable through a full office day. The most repeated practical note across reviews is that the bracelet ships with every extra link and no removal tool, so plan to size it down. It comes with a three-year limited warranty from Bulova, and water resistance is rated at 30 M.
Who the Classic 96B149 suits
It suits smaller wrists that have been burned by oversized fashion watches, and anyone who wants a dress watch they can wear to work without a suit. The vintage styling appeals to people who find modern minimalist dials too plain. It is also one of the safer gift picks because the size reads neutral.
Where the Classic 96B149 falls short
Thirty metres means no water beyond splashes, and the domed mineral crystal is the least scratch-resistant glass in this roundup. Sizing the bracelet is on you, and the date is small at a glance. If you want a sports watch or a sapphire crystal, keep looking.
11. Tissot PRX T1374101104100 – The Best Swiss Quartz Dress Watch
Tissot PRX, Swiss Quartz, 40mm, Blue Dial, Men’s Watch
Swiss quartz movement
40mm 316L steel
Sapphire crystal
100m rating
Pros
- Integrated bracelet finishing is excellent for the money
- Swiss quartz movement with good accuracy
- Blue dial flashes as light moves
- Sapphire crystal in a slim 10.4mm case
Cons
- Heavier than expected on the wrist
- Lug-to-lug can overwhelm small wrists
- Bracelet links are stubborn to remove
The Tissot PRX is the one watch here with a Swiss quartz movement, and reviewers consistently call the bracelet finishing and dial shimmer the best in class at this price. The blue dial flashes as light moves across it, which is the detail that makes the watch look expensive in a room. 83% of 379 reviewers give it five stars.
The case is 40mm across and 10.40mm thick, with a 12mm band width, a sapphire crystal and 100 M water resistance. The integrated stainless steel bracelet has a butterfly clasp with push-buttons. Retro 1970s styling does the rest, and the result reads far more expensive than the number on the invoice.
Accuracy for a battery-powered watch is good by general quartz standards, and reviewers note the Swiss movement holds its rate. Weight is the surprise: it feels heavier than expected, and the lug-to-lug measurement means the watch has real presence on the wrist. That presence is the entire design intent, but it is a fact worth knowing before ordering.
Who the PRX suits
It suits readers who want a dress watch that still handles a swim, since 100m covers both. It also suits anyone who values finishing and design language over complications, because there is no chrono here, just a clean integrated look. The butterfly clasp means the bracelet disappears under a cuff.
Where the PRX falls short
It wears large, and people with small wrists say so consistently. The bracelet links are stubborn to remove and the butterfly clasp is awkward to operate by hand. The case back snaps off, which will scratch the case when the battery eventually needs changing, so have it done by a service centre.
12. Invicta 6620 – The Best Full-Feature Budget Chronograph
Invicta Men’s Specialty Quartz Watch with Stainless Steel Band, Silver (Model: 6620)
Functional chrono subdials
Japanese VD53 movement
45mm case
100m rating
Pros
- Subdials measure 60 minute 60 second and 24 hour
- Japanese VD53 quartz movement
- 100m rating held up during swimming
- Polished two-tone finish looks upscale
Cons
- Silver hands on a silver dial are hard to read
- Luminous hands glow weakly in daylight
- Bracelet links need a removal tool
The Invicta 6620 is a chronograph where the subdials actually work, which is rarer than you would expect at this price. The 60-minute, 60-second and 24-hour registers are all functional, driven by a Japanese VD53 quartz movement assembled in Japan. 82% of 5,379 reviewers give it five stars.
The styling is a bright polished two-tone with a silver dial and luminous hands, a unidirectional stainless steel bezel and a Flame Fusion crystal. Owners call it a great budget chronograph with a satisfying weight, and many buy a cheap link removal kit alongside it. Water resistance is 100 M, and it held up in kayaking and swimming according to reviews.
Case dimensions are 45mm in diameter and 12.5mm thick, with a 22mm band on adjustable links and a fold-over push-button clasp. It weighs 195 grams, which is the heaviest watch in this roundup and the reason it feels solid. The included SR920SW battery is stated in the specs, and the crown is a push/pull type.
Who the 6620 suits
It suits anyone who wants a real stopwatch with a sporty, flashy finish and does not want to spend serious money. The working subdials make it useful for cooking, training intervals and general timing. The 100m rating means it survives a swim without drama.
Where the 6620 falls short
Silver-toned hands on a silver dial are genuinely hard to read if you wear reading glasses, and that is the most common complaint in reviews. The lume is weak in daylight. It also runs larger than expected on the wrist, and resizing the bracelet needs a dedicated tool.
13. Bulova Modern 98D144 – The Best Quartz Watch for Formal Wear
Bulova Men’s Modern Black Ion-Plated Stainless Steel 3-Hand Calendar Date Quartz Watch, Diamond Dial Style: 98D144
Diamond dial markers
Edge-to-edge crystal
Black ion plating
30m rating
Pros
- Diamond-set markers add real sparkle
- Edge-to-edge crystal gives a clean modern dial
- Black ion plating works with a suit
- Three year Bulova warranty
Cons
- Only 30m water resistance
- Metalized domed mineral crystal scratches
- Minimal complications on a busy dial
The Bulova Modern 98D144 is built for black tie and weddings. Diamond-set dial markers catch light across a black ion plated stainless steel case, and the edge-to-edge metalized domed crystal gives an uninterrupted view of the dial. 84% of 1,481 reviewers give it five stars.
The display is a three-hand layout with a calendar date, so it is a formal watch rather than a complicated one. Owners value it as an affordable way to add sparkle to a formal wardrobe, and the black finish keeps it understated enough to wear with a charcoal suit. Bulova includes a three-year limited warranty.
Be aware of the size: it weighs 11.2 ounces and the listing dimensions are 6 x 6 x 6 inches, so this is a substantial watch on the wrist. Water resistance is 30 M, which is fine for an evening and wrong for anything involving water. The movement is a standard quartz and the battery required is included.
Who the 98D144 suits
It suits people whose wardrobe leans formal and who want a watch that coordinates with jewellery rather than competing with it. The black plating means it also works for evening events that are smart casual. As a gift for a partner, the sparkle does the persuading.
Where the 98D144 falls short
It is not a daily beater: no water resistance beyond splashes, and a metalized domed mineral crystal that marks easily if it is knocked. The three-hand-plus-date layout offers nothing beyond looks. It is also heavy, which becomes tiring over a long evening.
14. Fossil Riley ES3203 – The Best Women’s Multifunction Quartz Watch
Fossil Women’s Watch, Riley Quartz Stainless Steel Multifunction Watch for Women, Color: Gold Glitz
38mm case
Multifunction quartz dial
Two-tone bracelet
100m rating
Pros
- Two-tone gold and silver pairing is distinctive
- 38mm suits wrists larger cases overwhelm
- 100m rating handles swimming and showering
- Gift favourite that looks pricier than it is
Cons
- Dial detail is too subtle for a quick glance
- Extra bracelet links usually need removing
- Included bracelet is less flexible on small wrists
The Fossil Riley ES3203 is the pick for readers shopping for someone else, and the only watch in this roundup designed explicitly for smaller wrists. It is a 38mm multifunction quartz watch on a two-tone gold and silver stainless steel bracelet, with a crystal-accented dial and a mother-of-pearl detail.
With more than 22,000 reviews at 4.6, this is one of the most proven watches we list. Owners often report comparing it against mall and jewellery store options and finding this one more convincing. The two-tone pairing works with everything from rose gold jewellery to a white gold engagement ring, which is exactly why it is such a common gift.
Specs: 38mm case, 18mm band width, a hardened mineral crystal lens, an accurate quartz multifunction movement and 100 M water resistance, rated for bathing, swimming and snorkeling but not scuba. The bracelet has a fold-over clasp with removable links. It weighs 4.59 ounces, which is light for a metal bracelet watch.
Who the Riley suits
It suits anyone who finds oversized women’s watches unflattering, because 38mm is a genuinely wearable size. It works as an everyday watch thanks to the 100m rating, and the multifunction dial adds visual interest for people who like a little more on the dial. Gift buyers should note how often it appears in reviews as a present.
Where the Riley falls short
The dial is deliberately understated, which means you cannot read it in an instant glance. Most owners have to remove a bracelet link to get the fit right, and the included bracelet is less flexible than a leather or mesh strap. It is not a tool watch, despite the water resistance rating.
How to Choose a Quartz Watch: 7 Things That Matter
Quartz vs automatic: which should you actually buy?
Buy quartz. A quartz movement holds time to within seconds a month, needs service far less often and costs far less to make, and that combination is why almost every watch on this list is battery powered. An automatic is worth buying if you are drawn to the movement itself, the ritual of winding, or the resale value of a mechanical watch. It is not worth buying if you want to know the time accurately and simply.
There is a snobbery problem worth naming directly. Watch enthusiasts often dismiss quartz because it does not carry the romance of a mechanical movement, and the pressure to justify a battery-powered watch is real. The honest response is that the snobbery is about tradition, not quality. On accuracy, durability and cost per year of ownership, quartz wins, and plenty of people who collect watches now wear one daily without apology.
Solar Eco-Drive or battery quartz?
Solar quartz costs nothing to run after the purchase, and the two best examples here are the Citizen Promaster and the Citizen Corso. If you work anywhere near daylight, solar removes battery anxiety entirely, which is the single most common complaint in the forums we read. The trade-off is that solar needs light, so a watch kept in a drawer for a month may need a day in the sun to recover.
Battery quartz is simpler and more robust. The Casio MDV106 runs three years on one cell, and standard lithium cells are cheap and available everywhere. The practical question is whether you will remember the watch exists between services. If not, buy solar. If you wear a watch daily and would rather never think about it, a five-year battery or solar is the right call.
How big is too big? Matching case diameter to your wrist
Oversized cases are the loudest recurring complaint in owner comments, and the fix is simple: check the diameter before you order. A watch that overhangs the wrist reads as cheap regardless of what it cost.
Under 36mm suits wrists under about 6 inches, and very few watches in this roundup qualify.
38mm is the sweet spot for small and medium wrists. The Bulova Classic 96B149 and the Fossil Riley ES3203 are the right size.
40mm is the safe middle. The Citizen BI5017-50E and the Seiko SUR307 both land here, though the Seiko wears slightly large.
41-43mm works for average and larger wrists. The Invicta Pro Diver sits here at 43mm.
45mm and above is for confirmed large wrists only. The Fossil Nate at 50mm and the Invicta 6620 at 45mm are the two biggest here.
Also check case thickness and lug width, not just diameter. A 50mm case with a thin profile still overhangs, and a narrow lug width limits your strap options later.
What does the water resistance rating really allow?
Water resistance numbers are a guide to a limit, not a target. 30 M means splashes and hand washing only, which covers every watch here with that rating, including the Bulova Crystal Octava and the Bulova 98D144. 50 M is showering and rain but not swimming, which is the ceiling for the Fossil Nate, the Citizen BI5017-50E and the Timex Expedition Scout. 100 M covers swimming, showering and surface-level snorkelling, and that is where the Seiko SUR307, the Fossil Riley, the Tissot PRX, the Invicta 6620 and the Invicta Pro Diver sit. 200 M is true dive territory, and only the Casio MDV106 and the Citizen Promaster qualify.
Check the crown and caseback, not just the rating. The Casio MDV106 and the Citizen Promaster both have screw-down crowns and casebacks, which is what makes their rating meaningful. A push-pull crown on a watch rated to 100 M is a warning sign.
Accuracy, High Accuracy Quartz and where the tiers break
A standard quartz movement typically holds to about 15 seconds a month, which is already far better than any mechanical watch. High Accuracy Quartz, abbreviated HAQ, is the enthusiast tier: any movement rated to hold within plus or minus 10 seconds a year, which usually requires temperature compensation. None of the watches in this roundup publish a per-model accuracy rate, so treat any accuracy claim from a listing as unverified until you have worn it.
Japanese movements are the accuracy sweet spot at the affordable end. The Invicta Pro Diver runs a caliber PC32, the Invicta 6620 runs a VD53, and the Citizen BI5017-50E uses a Japanese quartz calibre, all assembled in Japan. The Tissot PRX is the only Swiss quartz movement here, and the price jump reflects the finishing as much as the calibre.
Casio vs Timex: the honest head-to-head
This is the most searched question in the category, so here is a direct answer. Casio wins on water resistance, battery life and case construction, and the MDV106 is the harder watch. Timex wins on style variety, comfort and the pure simplicity of a clean field dial with full Arabic numerals. If your priority is surviving water and impacts, buy Casio. If your priority is a watch that looks like a classic field watch and sits comfortably on a bare wrist, buy Timex.
One recurring complaint in forums is that inexpensive Timex models tick loudly because of their brass cases, and Casio is recommended for silence. That is worth checking in person if noise bothers you. Our pick from each: the MDV106 for durability, the Expedition Scout for legibility and comfort.
What to avoid (and the red flags worth walking away from)
These are the problems that come up again and again in reader comments, and they apply to brands far beyond this list.
Plated gold cases wear through at the lugs first and go greenish. Twenty-year-old plated chronographs losing their finish is a common report.
Plated and knockoff watches that borrow a brand’s name. Check the case back for movement origin rather than trusting a listing.
Crowdfunded and direct-to-consumer brands with no service network. When a movement fails in three years there is nowhere to send it.
Brands that discount constantly, which tells you the listed price was never real.
Cheap leather straps that crack within three or four years. Metal, mesh, nylon NATO or perlon lasts far longer.
Cases larger than your wrist can see, which no amount of quality fixes.
Chronograph pushers on inexpensive movements that cannot be serviced economically once they fail.
One practical note on maintenance. Most battery quartz watches are opened at a service centre, and a snap-off case back like the Tissot PRX will scratch if you pry it yourself. If you do change a cell yourself, the water resistance rating should be treated as void afterwards, because the gaskets only work if reseated correctly.
For readers who want tracking rather than timekeeping, the [best golf GPS watches](https://acfc.org/best-golf-gps-watches/) guide covers course-specific features in the same format we have used here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are quartz watches worth buying?
Yes. A battery-powered quartz movement keeps time to within seconds a month, needs service far less often than a mechanical watch, and costs a fraction of the price. Solar models such as the Citizen Eco-Drive remove battery changes entirely. The only reason to skip quartz is if you specifically want the movement and winding ritual of a mechanical watch.
Which brand makes the best quartz watches?
Casio and Citizen cover most of the range in this roundup. Casio builds the most durable dive tools, with the MDV106 rated to 200 meters with a screw-down crown and three year battery. Citizen makes the best solar watches, including the Eco-Drive Promaster and the sapphire-crystal Corso. For dress styling, Bulova and Fossil cover smart, formal and smaller wrist sizes.
What is the best value quartz field watch?
The Timex Expedition Scout TW4B01900 is the strongest budget field watch, with a 40mm case, full Arabic numerals, a 24-hour dial track, an INDIGLO backlight and a genuine leather strap. For tougher conditions and deeper water, the Casio MDV106-1A is the better tool, with 200 meter resistance and a screw-down caseback.
Is Timex better or Casio?
Casio is the harder watch: better water resistance, longer battery life and tougher case construction. Timex wins on style variety and comfort, with clean Arabic-numeral field dials and leather straps that some wearers prefer. Buy Casio for durability and outdoor use, and Timex for a classic field-watch look at a lower weight.
Why don’t watch enthusiasts like quartz?
The objection is about tradition rather than quality. Quartz lacks the mechanical movement that collectors value, and many buyers feel pressure to justify a battery-powered watch. On accuracy, durability and cost per year of ownership, quartz outperforms mechanical, which is why many collectors now wear one daily without apology.
How long does a quartz watch battery last?
It depends on the movement and the type. The Casio MDV106 runs three years on a single lithium cell, and Citizen Eco-Drive solar models such as the Promaster and the Corso need no battery at all as long as they see light. Seiko caliber movements like the 6N52 in the SUR307 typically service on a two to three year interval.
The Best Quartz Watch for You in 2026
There is no single best quartz watch, but there is a right one for how you live. If you want one watch that handles water, impacts and three years of battery life, the Casio MDV106-1A is the pick. If you want a working chronograph and a large case suits your wrist, the Fossil Nate does the job for far less. If you never want to touch a battery again, take a Citizen Eco-Drive.
For dress, the Seiko SUR307 is the value answer, the Tissot PRX is the finishing answer, and the Bulova models are the sparkle answer. For small wrists, the Bulova Classic 96B149 and the Fossil Riley ES3203 are properly sized. Check the case diameter against your wrist before you order, and treat any accuracy claim that is not in the official spec sheet as unverified.
That is the best of these 14 quartz watches covered, from the cheapest tool to the most refined solar chronograph. Whichever you pick, wear it every day: a watch you never remove is the one that tells the time when you need it.