7 affordable watches to wear in summer 2025 – style meets function

The summer of 2025 is approaching fast, and with longer days, sunny outings and a more relaxed lifestyle, the need grows for a watch that is both good-looking, reliable – and does not cost a fortune. Whether you are looking for a classic analogue watch for the evening drink, a robust model for adventures by the sea or a minimalist design that suits all of everyday life's occasions, there are affordable alternatives that do not compromise on quality.

Text: Andreas Johansson

In this article we list seven watches that combine style, functionality above all water resistance and a reasonable price, we set the budget at around 20 000 kr. 

Nomos, Club campus starlight

Colour is fun in the summer! Nomos Glashütte has once again shown its ability to combine traditional craftsmanship with modern design through the launch of the Club Campus Starlight – a mechanical watch that radiates both elegance and sunny energy. With its vivid yellow dial and subtle details in orange and purple, the watch offers a unique aesthetic that stands out. The light grey hour markers, coated with Superluminova, glow blue in the dark and reinforce its dynamic appearance. The watch has a diameter of 36 mm and a height of only 8.2 mm, which gives an elegant profile that suits most wrists. The manual Alpha movement, made in-house in Glashütte, offers a power reserve of up to 43 hours and is finely adjusted in six positions for optimal accuracy. The Nomos Club Campus Starlight is more than just a watch – it is a symbol of new beginnings and personal achievements. With its combination of colourful design, technical precision and the possibility of personal customisation, it represents a modern interpretation of classic watchmaking. Price 1 380 Euro. 

Oris, Date relief 

The Oris Aquis Date Relief is a diver-inspired watch that combines technical precision with a strong environmental message. It was developed in collaboration with the expedition swimmer Ernst Bromeis, who through the project "The Blue Miracle" wants to increase awareness of the importance of water for life on Earth. The watch's grey dial mirrors the colour of a stormy sea, while the raised numerals on the dive bezel's minute scale symbolise the structure and power of water. The red seconds hand adds a visual contrast and is a reminder of water's vital role. The case is made in stainless steel and measures 43.5 mm in diameter, with a water resistance of 300 metres (30 bar), which makes it suitable for serious diving. The Oris Caliber 733, based on the Sellita SW 200-1, with automatic winding, 26 jewels and a power reserve of about 38 hours. Price approx. 2000 dollars.  

Certina DS Action Diver 

Are you looking for a solid diver at a reasonable price? Look no further. The Certina DS Action Diver 40.5mm ticks off more requirements than you can expect in this price segment. New technology, smart size, proven movement and well-thought-out design. Certina has not just launched a new size – they have taken a step forward in technical innovation. The DS Action Diver 40.5mm combines smart technology with solid design and lands in a price segment where very few can compete in terms of the specifications. This is a diver's watch that is likely to become a favourite both among enthusiasts and the newly converted

The references for the watches in the article are C048.407.11.051.01 in the black version and C048.407.11.011.00i in white. The price for each is 11,200 SEK and there is also a blue model among the new releases.

Casio, G-Shock, GA-2100wd-1a

The Casio G-Shock GA-2100WD-1A, also known as the "CasiOak" because of its distinct octagonal bezel, is a watch that combines robust functionality with a minimalist aesthetic. This model is part of G-Shock's 2100 series and has quickly become a favourite among both watch collectors and everyday users. The GA-2100WD-1A has a slim profile with the measurements 48.5 × 45.4 × 11.8 mm and weighs only 51 grams. The case is made of carbon fibre reinforced resin, which gives exceptional durability and resistance to shocks. The strap is made of bio-based resin, which is not only environmentally friendly but also comfortable for daily use. The white dial with a black bezel gives a modern and clean look that suits both formal and informal occasions. Its robust construction in carbon fibre reinforced resin means it takes a beating, while the strap feels pleasant against the skin even on warm days. The light design with a contrasting black bezel gives a modern, fresh expression that easily matches summery outfits like swim shorts with a linen shirt. Together with functions such as double LED lighting, world time and five daily alarms, the GA-2100WD-1A is not just a good-looking accessory, but also a practical companion all summer long. Price, around 1000 SEK. 

Seiko Prospex, SPB509

When summer invites adventure, travel and relaxed days by the sea, you need a watch that not only withstands the elements but also complements your style. The Seiko Prospex SPB509J1, a limited anniversary edition celebrating 60 years of Seiko's diver's watches, is exactly such a watch. With its robust construction, elegant design and practical functions it is an ideal companion for all of summer's occasions. The SPB509J1's deep blue dial with an embossed wave pattern is a tribute to the power and beauty of the sea. This motif, inspired by the iconic "Great Wave" artwork, gives the watch a distinct and summery aesthetic. The white, luminous indexes and hands ensure excellent legibility, whether you find yourself in strong sunlight or below the surface of the water. With a water resistance of 300 metres the SPB509J1 is more than capable of handling swims, snorkelling and other water activities. The stainless steel construction with a ceramic bezel and sapphire crystal protects against scratches and knocks, which makes it a reliable partner during all of summer's adventures. The built-in GMT function, driven by Seiko's automatic calibre 6R54 with a power reserve of 72 hours, makes it easy to keep track of several time zones – perfect for summer's travels. The independent 24-hour hand in a gold tone gives an elegant contrast and functionality. The Seiko Prospex SPB509J1 combines functionality, durability and aesthetics in a way that makes it an ideal summer watch. Whether you are planning beach days, travel across time zones or just want a reliable and clean-lined accessory, this watch offers everything you need – and a bit more. Price, 23 950 SEK. 

Tissot PRC 100 Solar

The PRC 100 Solar sits really well on the wrist, thanks to its slim design and well-thought-out ergonomics, and thanks to the fact that it has 100m water resistance it becomes a reliable summer watch for all adventures. The dial is clear and easy to read, with hands and indexes coated with Super-LumiNova® for good visibility even in weak light. It also has an End of Energy (EOE) indicator that signals when the battery is starting to run out by having the seconds hand move in four-second intervals. The Tissot PRC 100 Solar is an impressive addition to the brand's portfolio and an excellent example of how traditional watch design can be combined with modern technology. The clean-lined design, the discreet solar cell system and the impressive battery life make it a strong alternative for anyone looking for a reliable watch with innovative technology. Price, 6 095 SEK.

Longines, HydroConquest

With its sunray blue dial and matching ceramic bezel the HydroConquest captures the essence of summer. The blue colour is a reminder of the depth of the sea and the clarity of the summer sky, which makes the watch a stylish accessory for both beach days and evening activities. The applied Arabic numerals and indexes, together with silver-coloured hands, are coated with Swiss Super-LumiNova® for optimal legibility in all light conditions. The HydroConquest is built to cope with all of summer's adventures. With a water resistance of up to 300 metres (30 bar) it is perfect for swimming, snorkelling and other water activities. The stainless steel construction and the ceramic bezel give both durability and a modern aesthetic. The scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment on both sides ensures that the watch remains clear and legible, even in strong sunlight. Price, 23 600 SEK.