Shoppingforwatchesaround $1,000 can sometimes feel like a bleak endeavor.

Its a middle ground between grail-level timepieces and affordable sets you might buy atdepartment stores.

If youre currently in this situation, fear not: $1,000 can get you a great timepiece.

best-mens-watches-2024

Tissot/KAY Jewelers

Read on for our watchbuying guide, as well as our picks for the best watches under $1,000.

Inside is a 4R36 automatic movement that can also be hand-wound if the watch sits for too long.

ThisOcean Staris a great example, boasting a classic diver look and an impressive automatic movement under the hood.

For example, this Speedtimer boasts a solar-powered movement and a split time function for 15-second measurements.

Its also water-resistant up to 100 meters and features scratch-resistant stainless steel.

This sturdiness continues in the face thanks to a domed sapphire crystal.

The watchs stainless steel build, minimal face and versatile size make it ideal for everyday wear.

Plus, the power reserve level is indicated underneath the 12 oclock position.

The watch also features a handy date complication and water resistance capabilities.

Movement: The three main types of watch movements are automatic, mechanical, and quartz.

This allows the watch to charge itself and continue running without any intervention.

Mechanical watches are the true vintage choice and must be hand-wound every couple of days.

Brand: With watches, a trustworthy brand typically means a trustworthy watch.

Old, established brands often have well-founded reputations for lasting quality.

A watchs origin matters too, as some countries have higher quality standards and more competitive watchmaking culture.

Crystal: A watchs crystal refers to the material used for the dial cover.

Sapphire is the most desirable as its very hard to scratch, and reduces glare.

Seven of our eight picks use this sapphire crystal.

The other key in of crystal youll encounter is mineral, which is a specially-treated glass.

Cheaper watches also use plastic-like acrylic crystal, but none of our picks use this.

If a watch is rated at 30 meters water-resistance, try not to get it wet at all.

Fifty meters of water resistance is enough to withstand rain and occasional splashes.

These can be convenient, but theyre also just cool.