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Looking for your first automatic watch without spending a fortune? Automatic watches are a perfect entry point for anyone starting their collection — blending mechanical craftsmanship with everyday style. In this guide, we’ll highlight the best automatic watches under £500 you can find on Amazon UK in 2025.

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What to Look for in an Entry-Level Automatic Watch

Before shopping on Amazon, keep these in mind:

• Movement reliability – Seiko and Orient are leaders in affordable automatic movements.
• Design – Consider whether you need a dress watch, sporty diver, or casual daily wear.
• Durability – Features like sapphire crystal or strong water resistance make a difference.
• Brand reputation – Stick with trusted names for peace of mind.

Remeber, this list is my personal choice with watches i have or have had the chance to review.

Top 5 Automatic Watches Under £500

1. Orient Bambino Version 5

A stylish dress watch and one of the most recommended first automatics.

• Pros: Classic domed crystal, elegant design, reliable Japanese movement.
• Cons: Minimal water resistance.
• Best For: Everyday office and smart-casual wear.

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Want to see my full breakdown of the Orient Bambino and why you should buy it? Click here

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2. Seiko 5 Sports SRPD Series

The legendary Seiko 5, now upgraded with modern styling and a robust 4R36 movement.

• Pros: Excellent value, rugged design, day/date feature.
• Cons: On the thicker side, not ideal for formal wear.
• Best For: Casual daily use and sporty looks.

3. Citizen Men’s Analogue Automatic Watch Tsuyosa

A fresh, modern-looking automatic that’s gaining popularity.

• Pros: Reliable movement, sleek contemporary styling, trusted brand.
• Cons: Limited variety of models.
• Best For: Millennials wanting something minimalist but stylish.

4. Tissot Everytime Swissmatic

A Swiss-made automatic for under £500 — a rare gem.

• Pros: Swiss quality, minimalist design, elegant build.
• Cons: Few complications/features at this price point.
• Best For: Professionals and those wanting a Swiss entry-level piece.

5. Invicta Pro Diver Automatic

amous for its Submariner-inspired look, this is an affordable dive-style option.

• Pros: Eye-catching design, exhibition case back, very budget-friendly.
• Cons: Brand reputation is mixed.
• Best For: New watch fans who love dive-watch aesthetics.

Caring for Your First Automatic Watch

• Wear it often to keep it wound.
• Store it in a safe case or watch winder.
• Service it every few years for long-term reliability.

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Pros and Cons of Owning an Automatic Watch

Automatic watches have long been admired by collectors and everyday wearers alike. Unlike quartz watches that run on batteries, automatics are powered by the natural motion of your wrist. For many, this makes them more than just a way to tell time — they’re a piece of craftsmanship. But are they the right choice for you? Let’s break down the pros and cons.

Pros

One of the biggest appeals of automatic watches is their heritage and craftsmanship. Each piece contains dozens, sometimes hundreds, of intricate components working together. For many enthusiasts, this gives the watch a soul that quartz or digital watches lack.

Another advantage is their longevity. With proper care, an automatic watch can last decades, even being passed down as an heirloom. They also eliminate the need for battery replacements, which adds convenience and reduces waste.

Finally, automatics have undeniable aesthetic appeal. Many models feature exhibition case backs, allowing you to admire the movement at work — a true conversation starter.

Cons

However, automatic watches aren’t perfect. They are generally less accurate than quartz watches, often gaining or losing a few seconds each day. For some, this minor drift isn’t an issue, but perfectionists may find it frustrating.

There’s also the matter of maintenance. Most automatics require servicing every 3–5 years, which can be costly. If you don’t wear your watch regularly, it may also stop running, meaning you’ll need to reset the time and date before each use.

Lastly, automatics tend to be more expensive than their quartz counterparts, making them less budget-friendly for beginners.

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Final Thoughts

If you want a dress watch, choose the Orient Bambino. For a sporty all-rounder, the Seiko 5 Sports SRPD is unbeatable. And if you want a Swiss-made entry under £500, the Tissot Everytime Swissmatic is your best bet.

All of these are available directly through Amazon UK, making them easy to buy with fast shipping and returns.