Automatic

Frederique Constant Classics Automatic - FC-306MC4S36

Frederique Constant Slimline Classics Automatic Review

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The Slimline Classics is the first Frederique Constant I’ve reviewed on WYCA, and when I received it I was quite excited to get some wrist time. At this price point, Frederique Constant competes directly against brands I’ve gotten plenty of hands-on experience with (Hamilton, Tissot, and Seiko) and I was curious to see how it compared.

The model I have here is among the lease complicated in the collection, featuring a guilloche dial and a date display at 6 o’clock. Other models in the range feature small seconds, moonphase complications, and an assortment of styles. Regular readers know that my style is conservative, and the one I have here is my preferred version.

Swatch Irony "Body & Soul" YAS100G

Swatch Irony “Body & Soul” YAS100G Hands-On Review

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Every watch geek goes through a “skeleton” phase. If you’re there now, the Swatch “Body & Soul” YAS100G is a pretty affordable pick. But is it any good? That’s the question we’re looking to answer today!

The MSRP on the Body and Soul is just north of $175, but astute Amazon shoppers will see it for around $150. For $150, you can get a lot of mechanical or automatic skeletons. So, is the Swatch better, and if so, why?

Audaz Scuba Master Dial

Auduz Scuba Master Hands-On Review

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The Audaz Scuba Master, a sub-$400 dive watch with a Seiko automatic inside, is a gigantic piece that’s built like a tank and rated to travel with you into the depths. This is a satisfying diver from an up and coming microbrand- check it out!

Best Mechanical Watches for Men

Best Mechanical Watches For Men Priced Under $1,500

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A common question we get on our Facebook and YouTube channels is “what are the best mechanical/automatic watches under $X”. The $X changes, but the sentiment in the question does not. It’s a good question, too, as there’s never been a broader selection of mechanically-powered watches than what’s available today.

In this list, I’ve called out my favorite automatic or mechanical watches priced under $1,500. A notable caveat: if the watch is an automatic, the movement must be able to be hand-wound like a non-automatic mechanical movement.

Dan Henry 1970 Automatic

Dan Henry 1970 Review

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The limited edition 1970 by Dan Henry is a surprising piece. While it has some minor quality control items (I must stress that they are minor), the rest of the watch is composed and well executed. I’m a big fan of its looks, and I love how the theme has touched every part of the watch in a subtle, classy way. It’s a stand-out piece, especially when you consider its $250 price tag. This is as great watch that’s worth your consideration.

Orient Mako Rubber FEM65003DW Dial & Crowns

Orient Mako FEM65003DW Review

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It may not be a real “dive watch”, but the Mako Rubber definitely looks the part. With 200m of water resistance, it can get plenty wet and look great doing it. Otherwise, the Mako is an affordable and capable watch, powered by a house-made automatic movement, and looks that match. I’m a big fan.

Grayton Automatic Watch - Grey Dial

Grayton Automatic Watch Review

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The Grayton is a great choice for someone that wants an automatic watch without the uncertainty associated with using a movement from an unknown or less reputable manufacturer. The Seiko NH35A is a great movement that does the Grayton justice. The watch looks good and is comfortable to wear. It’s got the right stuff to be a good watch.

Seiko Recraft SNKM97

Relooking at the Recraft: the Seiko SNKM97

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I’m currently sitting in my hotel room at the Linq Hotel in Las Vegas, and the SNKM97 is the perfect companion. It looks totally at home on the strip, and its green and gold color scheme practically screams “high roller”. While this budget timepiece may not really be a high roller, it looks the part and feels great on the wrist. Check it out!

Steinhart Ocean 1 Black

Steinhart Ocean 1 Review

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When we talk about affordable mechanical diving watches, we usually think of the usual suspects: the Seiko SKX007, the Orient Mako or the Orient Ray. Today, however, we’re taking a look at the Steinhart Ocean One Vintage Military, a ~$400 diving watch that offers a lot for a little.

Seiko Recraft SNKN01 Automatic Watch

Seiko Recraft SNKN01 Automatic Review

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The SNKN01 is a great looking watch that is powered by the legendary 7S26 automatic movement. For someone looking for an affordable automatic, the SNKN01 – and the Recraft series of watches – offer a lot of value. I’ve seen this watch for as low as $110 on Amazon, and at that price it’s an obvious choice. It doesn’t get much better than that.

Stowa Partito Dial Macro

Stowa Partitio Review

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A remake of the original Partitio from the 30’s, it has now found its way into their core line-up, but it often overlooked in favour of the well known Stowa Flieger Klassik. Which is unfortunate, because the Partitio represents an incredible value for money.

Bulova 97A121 Automatic in Box

Bulova 97A121 Automatic Review

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This Bulova has as lot of things going for it. First, it’s a great looking open heart that isn’t over styled; It’s competitively priced, clocking in somewhere around $300 – $350; it’s built well, like every other Bulova I’ve reviewed to date. It’s a great watch and has earned a great recommendation from me. Check it out!