20 BEST Digital Watches From Affordable to Luxury

In today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world, the concept of timekeeping has evolved exponentially. While traditional mechanical watches still hold a special place in the hearts of horology enthusiasts, digital watches have emerged as the epitome of modernity and convenience the world over. 

Combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design, digital watches offer a plethora of features that cater to both tech-savvy individuals and fashion-forward enthusiasts and perhaps even the most astute mechanical watch snobs. 

In this article, we will delve into the captivating world of digital watches, exploring their functionality and versatility. Plus, we’ll look at the enduring appeal that keeps them ticking amidst the age of the all-encompassing smartwatch and the traditional world of mechanical horology.

About Digital Watches

First, some history. In the midst of the technological whirlwind of the 1970s and 1980s, a small yet significant innovation emerged that would forever change the way we perceive timekeeping: the digital watch. 

These sleek, electronic timepieces symbolized progress, modernity, and a departure from the traditional mechanical watches that had dominated the horological landscape for centuries. With the combination of quartz and modern technology, this was truly a transformative era in timekeeping. 

The Birth of the Digital Watch: The 1970s

The 1970s was a time of rapid advancement in electronics, with integrated circuits and microprocessors paving the way for new possibilities in consumer products. It was during this period that the first digital watches made their debut, capturing the imagination of people around the world as a whole new way of timekeeping.

One of the earliest pioneers in this field was the Hamilton Watch Company, which introduced the groundbreaking “Pulsar Time Computer” in 1972. Marketed as the world’s first digital watch, the Pulsar featured a red LED display that illuminated the time when the button was pressed. This watch quickly became a status symbol, adorning the wrists of celebrities and tech enthusiasts alike.

As the decade progressed, other manufacturers jumped on the digital bandwagon, introducing more affordable models. Casio, a brand that would become a powerhouse in the digital watch industry, released its first digital watch, the Casiotron, in 1974. The Casiotron showcased a digital display and a host of innovative features, paving the way for future Casio digital watches that would dominate the market in years to come.

The Rise of Functional Style: The 1980s

The 1980s marked a turning point in the digital watch revolution. The technology became more refined, and digital watches evolved from being novelty items to essential accessories due to their increasingly affordable pricing and practicality. The distinctive futuristic look of digital timepieces became synonymous with the high-tech aesthetic of the era, and manufacturers capitalized on this trend.

Casio, with its innovative spirit, launched a series of iconic digital watch lines during the 1980s. The G-Shock, introduced in 1983, redefined ruggedness in wristwear. Its shock-resistant design and durability made it a favorite among athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, solidifying Casio’s position as a leader in the digital watch market, which lasts through the present day.

Meanwhile, Timex, another renowned watchmaker, introduced the Ironman Triathlon in 1986, targeting the fitness-minded consumer. With its stopwatch features, water resistance, and durable build, the Ironman became a staple for athletes and fitness enthusiasts worldwide.

A Continued Legacy

The impact of digital watches from the 1970s and 1980s cannot be overstated. These timepieces revolutionized the watch industry, transitioning timekeeping from a traditional mechanical process to a digital, electronic experience. 

They paved the way for the smartwatches and wearable technology we have today, demonstrating that wristwatches can be much more than mere timekeeping devices.

What To Look For in Digital Watches? 

With an understanding of digital watch history and how digital watchkeeping has developed in the years since its inception, we now ask what a buyer should look for when deciding which digital watch to buy. Whether casual wear or specialized activities are your use case, let’s explore a few factors.

Legibility

One of the primary advantages of digital watches is their transparent, easy-to-read displays. However, not all digital watch displays are created equal. When evaluating a digital watch for legibility, consider the following:

• Display Type: Look for a watch with a high-contrast display, ideally backlit for nighttime readability. Some watches feature LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) screens, while others use OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) technology for even crisper visuals.

• Size and Layout: Ensure the digits on the watch face are large enough to be easily seen at a glance. Pay attention to the layout of the digits, ensuring they’re well-organized and intuitively presented.

Battery Life

Another advantage of digital watches is their typically longer battery life compared to many analog counterparts and the reliability of battery power.  When selecting a digital watch, consider:

• Battery Type: Most digital watches use replaceable coin cell batteries, which are affordable and widely available. However, some advanced digital watches may have rechargeable batteries, for example, solar-powered watches.

• Battery Life: Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the estimated battery life. A watch with a longer battery life is ideal, especially if you plan to use additional features frequently.

Additional Features

Modern digital watches often come packed with a variety of features beyond basic timekeeping. Depending on your needs and preferences, here are some additional features to consider:

• Water Resistance: If you’re an avid swimmer or enjoy water-based activities, look for a digital watch with a suitable water resistance rating. Some watches are water-resistant but not suitable for diving, so check the specifications.

• Alarms and Reminders: Many digital watches include alarm functions, making them great for waking up or setting reminders throughout the day.

• Stopwatch and Timer: These features are handy for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone who needs precise timing for various activities.

• World Time and Time Zones: If you travel frequently, a digital watch with world time functionality can be a game-changer.

• Smart Features: Some digital watches now come with smart features such as step tracking, heart rate monitoring, and smartphone connectivity. Assess whether these features align with your lifestyle and preferences.

Build Quality & Durability

A good digital watch should be able to withstand everyday wear and tear. Look for watches with sturdy materials, scratch-resistant screens, and quality construction. Additionally, if you’re into outdoor activities, consider rugged watches designed to handle harsh conditions. Now, onto our list.

The Best Digital Watches From Affordable to Luxury

Casio F91W-1

In the world of digital wristwatches, the Casio F91W-1 is perhaps the quintessential reference, renowned for its accessibility, dependability, and affordable price point. With dimensions of 38.2mm x 35.2mm x 8.5mm (length, width, height), it boasts a compact yet comfortable design that sits well on any wrist. 

This watch features a digital display with a versatile 1/100-second stopwatch, alarm, and 12/24-hour formats, making it a practical choice for daily use and sports activities. Its durable resin case and band ensure longevity, and the water resistance of up to 30 meters is just enough for everyday use. 

Of note, the LED backlight feature is a convenient bonus for low-light situations. Perfect for those seeking an affordable, functional, and durable timepiece, the Casio F91W-1 continues to be a beloved choice for those looking for everyday dependable performance.

Retail Price: $22.95

Casio World Time AE-1200WH-1AV

The Casio World Time AE-1200WH-1AV is a versatile and feature-packed digital world time watch that’s perfect for globetrotters and adventurers alike. With its unique looks flanked with pushers on either side of its case, it comes in at 45mm x 42.1mm x 12.5mm in size (length, width, height) and presents a substantial yet comfortable presence on the wrist. 

This timepiece excels in its world-time functionality, displaying 31 timezones across 48 cities, making it an invaluable tool for international travel. The watch also offers a 1/100-second stopwatch, five daily alarms, a countdown timer, and 12/24-hour formats. Its utilitarian design, highlighted by a resin case and band, ensures durability, while the LED backlight aids visibility in various lighting conditions. 

With its array of practical features, the Casio World Time AE-1200WH-1AV stands as a reliable companion for those who crave functionality and precision in a stylish and resilient package, with 100 meters of water resistance and a 10-year battery life to boot.

Retail Price: $29.95 

Timex Ironman Classic 30 Full Size

The Timex Ironman Classic 30 Full Size is a sporty and dependable digital watch that’s designed to keep up with active lifestyles and is another quintessential standby in the category. With a 38mm diameter and a thickness of just over 12mm, it offers a comfortable fit on the wrist and is lightweight in feel due to its resin and acrylic materials. 

Boasting a 30-lap memory, countdown timer, and 100-meter water resistance, it’s ideal for both athletic pursuits and everyday wear. The durable resin case and strap ensure longevity, while the iconic INDIGLO® backlight enhances visibility in low-light conditions. The watch features an alarm, a 24-hour countdown timer, and dual timezone settings, making it a practical companion for travelers. 

With its reliable performance and rugged design, the Timex Ironman Classic 30 Full Size is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a versatile and durable sports watch that doesn’t compromise on style or functionality with its decidedly modern good looks.

Retail Price: $42.99 

Casio A168WEM-1VT

The Casio A168WEM-1VT is a stylish and versatile digital watch that seamlessly blends retro charm with modern functionality and materials. Its sleek stainless steel case is mirror-finished and measures 36.3mm in diameter (38.6mm in length and 9.6mm in height), offering a comfortable fit for various wrist sizes. 

The watch features a clear digital display with a bright electro-luminescent backlight, making it easy to read the time even in low-light conditions. A classic Casio design, the watch is enhanced by a silver-tone finish and an adjustable stainless steel bracelet. 

Key features include a 1/100-second stopwatch, daily alarm, hourly time signal, auto-calendar (28 days for February), and water resistance up to 30 meters. A perfect blend homage to classic Casio designs with practical features for everyday use.

Retail Price: $49.95 

Timex T80

The Timex T80 line of watches (34mm and 36mm variants of multiple case and strap materials available) is a striking fusion of vintage flair and contemporary functionality. Its compact 34mm case size harkens back to the iconic digital watches of the ’80s, perfect for those who appreciate a retro touch, a look that can’t be mistaken as soon as you set eyes on it. 

Within the line, gold and stainless steel colored options are coupled with matching gold and stainless steel bracelets, as well as being available on resin bands in colors ranging from maroon to tone-on-tone pink. 

The digital display is easy to read, and the watch offers useful features like a 24-hour chronograph, alarm, and Indiglo backlight, ensuring practicality in modern life on top of its stylish looks.

Retail Price: From $59.00 

Casio A700WM-7AVT

Within Casio’s vintage style range of watches sits the A700WM-7AVT, a handsome and sophisticated blend of retro 80’s style accented with a stainless steel mesh band. 

With case dimensions of 37.4 x 35.5 x 6mm (length x width x height), the classic Casio digital watch face design you know in love wears slim and comfortable on the wrist, along with the self-adjustability of the mesh band. 

Key features include a 1/100-second stopwatch, daily alarm, hourly time signal, auto-calendar, and water resistance up to 30 meters, adding practicality to its clean design. The estimated battery life of the CR1616 battery included with the watch is approximately 3 years.

Retail Price: $64.95 

Casio Databank DBC-611-1

Growing up in the early ’90s, the Casio Databank DBC-611-1 would’ve helped me stay a lot more organized (if I wasn’t a kid with nowhere to go and nothing to do). Another star of the Casio Vintage collection, its oblong case with digital display up top and numeric keyboard on the bottom is unmistakable. 

As alluded to above, the standout feature here is its databank functionality, allowing you to store essential information such as phone numbers and appointments. With a 25-page databank capacity, just think of all the information you could input! 

The watch also includes a calculator feature, an 8-digit calculator display, a multi-function alarm, and an auto-calendar, making it a practical accessory for everyday use. The LED backlight ensures readability in any lighting conditions, and the water resistance of up to 50 meters adds to its practicality. If you’ve ever wanted to relive the Golden years of the 80s and 90s, the DBC-611-1 is an immediately compelling watch to add to your collection.

Retail Price: $64.95 

Casio GA2100

Enter the Casio GA2100. Popularly referred to in watch nerd-dom as the “CasiOak”. With their distinctive octagonal bezel (reminiscent of a certain iconic luxury watch), combined with Casio’s rugged durability and cutting-edge features, we have a new line of G-Shock watches launched in 2019. 

With a carbon core guard structure, these watches are both lightweight and highly durable, measuring 45.4mm by 48.5mm in diameter and only 11.9mm thick, making them comfortable on the wrist. The GA2100 line offers a range of features, including multiple timezones, a stopwatch, a countdown timer, and a 200-meter water resistance, and are suitable for hard-wearing activities in true G-Shock fashion. 

The analog-digital display, paired with the Super Illuminator LED light, ensures excellent readability in any situation, and with over 43 different colorways (available as of 2023), one is sure to find a standout CasiOak for their personal tastes.

Retail Price: $99.00 

Casio G-Shock GWM5610-1

When you picture a G-Shock in your head, you’re likely picturing something along the lines of the classic GWM5610-1. With its classic square design, the watch features a tough black resin case and a comfortable adjustable band, just as any other G-Shock. So why the higher price point than a typical G-Shock? 

This G-Shock is solar-powered (Tough Solar, to be exact), equipped with Multi-Band 6 radio-controlled timekeeping for accuracy, and offers a range of useful features, including a full auto-calendar, daily alarm, countdown timer, and 200-meter water resistance. 

As with any G-Shock, the full list of features is too long to list (good luck reading that instruction manual), but at the end of the day, the GWM5610-1 embodies the essence of G-Shock’s toughness while incorporating modern conveniences, making it a reliable and versatile choice for those seeking a durable and feature-packed watch.

Retail Price: $150.00 

Yema LED Silver (ref. YMHF1575-AM)

When thinking of digital watches, Yema may not exactly be the first to come to mind. But there they were, as early as the 1970s, releasing the progenitor of this watch, the Yema LED Silver. 

It’s hard to miss the case upon first view. The striking squared and angled watch head exudes a certain robotic charm, while the characteristic red LED digital display showcases a retro-futuristic touch, offering a distinctive and nostalgic appeal. The LED has a standby mode to ensure low battery consumption and can be lit up by pushing a button on the side of the case. 

At 37.5mm in dimension and 10.5mm thick, the watch is compact on the wrist despite the odd-shaped design. While paying homage to its vintage inspirations, the Yema LED Silver embraces contemporary functionality and build, making it an intriguing choice for those who appreciate a harmonious fusion of classic and cutting-edge design.

Retail Price: $269.00 

Casio G-Shock GM-S5600-1

The G-Shock GM-S5600-1 is Casio’s down-sized version of the standard bearer 5600 series with a polished metal steel case. Paired with a resin band, the watch exudes a refined yet robust appearance (Case size: 43.8mm length, 38.4mm width, 10.9mm height). 

This G-Shock model offers the reliability and shock resistance that the brand is renowned for, with an approximate battery life of 2 years with its CR1616 battery. The digital display is crisp and easy to read, featuring essential functions like daily alarms, world time, and a stopwatch. At the same time, the 200-meter water resistance makes it suitable for various activities like watersports (and the occasional dishwashing). 

The GM-S5600-1 is the epitome of a versatile and durable timepiece, merging G-Shock’s trademark resilience with a touch of sophistication, making it a great choice for both adventure and style-conscious individuals looking for a bit more personal style.

Retail Price: $160.00 

Seiko Prospex “Digi Tuna” SBEP003

With Seiko’s hallowed history in the dive watch space for enthusiasts and laymen alike, it should come as no surprise that within the storied lineup of watches, there exists a digital watch mixing their iconic dive watch style with modern technology. 

Enter the SBEP003 “Digi Tuna”, a watch taking the shrouded case design of the infamous “Tuna” diver (their most robust professional dive watch) and adding in a digital display. No slouch in actual use, the watch is rated to 200 meters of water resistance, and its solar-powered capability (in-house caliber S802 movement) ensures reliability without worrying about battery changes.

Key features include a chronograph, dual time (44 cities), and full auto-calendar (good through the year 2067). The luminescent markers, hands, and the LED backlight, activated by tapping the glass, ensure legibility in low-light environments.

With its calls to heritage design, the “Digi Tuna” not only honors Seiko’s storied history in dive watches but also pushes boundaries, making it a true Prospex gem for enthusiasts seeking a fully capable dive watch in an alternative form factor to the typical G-Shock’s of the market.

Retail Price: $329.00 

Bulova Computron (ref. 97C110)

Pulling from the brand’s Archive Series, Bulova presents the Computron (reference 97C110), combining that nostalgic pull of 1970s design with modern elements and construction techniques of today. At first glance, the distinctive trapezoidal stainless steel case exudes a retro-futuristic vibe, capturing attention with its unique design and gold-tone. 

The digital LED display offers a bold and modern touch, featuring a red LED readout that complements the watch’s overall aesthetic. With its multifunctional capabilities, including time, date, and a dual time zone feature, this watch offers practicality in pair with its unique form.

Retail Price: $395.00 

Autodromo Group C

In a call of celebration of the Digital Age, Autodromo aims to meld the car aesthetics of that day (e.g., Porsche 962C) with watch design—the result: The Autodromo Group C. 

The sleek, slab-sided case will no doubt recall the popular form factor of the Casio’s and Timex’s of the market that enthusiasts will be familiar with but in a new and uniquely aerodynamic way that echoes Autodromo’s aesthetic and design cues as seen across their full lineup. 

For all of its nostalgic and clean looks, the Group C is also no slouch in the feature department, with complications including a chronograph with split time mode, Alarm, and Day/Date display mode. Powered by the reliable Caliber E168 Eco-Drive, the watch is resistant to 30 meters of water and has a 36mm diameter case (42mm length, 10mm height), which should wear well on most wrists. 

Retail Price: $475.00 

Seiko “Arnie” SNJ025

Anyone lucky enough to have lived through or experienced the period that is the 1980s and 1990s is likely to have seen or participated in the viewing of the huge spectacles that were action movies of the day. We’re talking big action films like Commando (1985), Raw Deal (1986), Running Man (1987), and Predator (1987). 

What do these all have in common? The watch on Arnold Schwarzenegger’s wrist: The Seiko H558-5000, a watch still sought after in the vintage market among fans today. 

In 2019, Seiko decided to bless us watch, and movie buffs with the return of this line of ani-digi watches in the SNJ025. As a modern reinterpretation of the classic H558-5000, the SNJ025 has a few upgrades: a solar-powered (6-month power reserve) battery, power display, stopwatch, alarm, and 200 meters of water resistance, to name a few. 

At 47.8mm in case diameter, it might sound like a watch only Arnold could wear but don’t be fooled. With Seiko’s case design magic, even smaller wrists can enjoy the watch, which comes with an adjustable silicone strap for comfort (another upgrade since the older 1980s Seiko rubber).  

Retail Price: $525.00 

Casio G-Shock Full Metal GMW-B5000D-1

Within Casio’s extensive lineup of G-Shock models, the Full Metal GMW-B5000 Series offers a striking metallic look with the iconic square case design. The stainless steel case and band give it a premium look, while the G-Shock’s legendary durability ensures it can handle the most demanding situations. 

The watch boasts an array of modern features (full auto-calendar, world time, alarms, and more) as with most G-Shocks, but a standout feature is the inclusion of Bluetooth connectivity for easy time synchronization and access to various functions via the G-Shock Connected app. 

And did we mention its Tough Solar? The combination of traditional G-Shock toughness, contemporary technology, and refined metal design makes the GMW-B5000D-1 a versatile and striking timepiece.

Retail Price: $550.00 

Hamilton American Classic PSR Digital Quartz (ref. H52414131)

As the originator of the digital watch in the early 1970s, Hamilton’s contribution to the field of digital watchmaking is a story of innovation and survival at a time when traditional watchmaking was thrown to the wayside with the advent of quartz and new technologies in timekeeping. Today, Hamilton offers the American Classic PSR (reference H52414131) to commemorate that historic feat. 

Measuring in at 40.8mm x 34.7mm, the PSR has a few modern upgrades over the vintage models that contemporary collectors may find of use, namely an anti-reflective sapphire crystal, a hybrid LCD and OLED crisp digital display with green digits, and water resistance to 100 meters. 

Simply push the button on the right-hand side of the case, and the time will display. A classic throwback to the style’s originator, the American Classic PSR offers a contemporary gateway to true heritage and digital watch design, married with the confidence of modern watchmaking.

Retail Price: $795.00 

Breitling Aerospace Evo (ref. E79363101B1E1)

Breitling is no stranger to quartz and digital watchmaking. Originally launched in 1985, the Aerospace line was designed to be a multifunction chronograph with the top Swiss technology of the day. As the inheritor of the line, the Aerospace Evo (reference E79363101B1E1) retains the now iconic ani-digi design and style, in addition to all of the latest developments with modern Quartz technology of today. 

Now powered with the official chronometer-certified SuperQuartz caliber, the watch’s functions are accessed in a user-friendly format via the single crown. Parts of the watch include a 1/100th of a second chronograph, second timezone, alarm, countdown timer, minute repeater, and calendar. 

Though made of lightweight titanium, the Aerospace Evo leans on the larger side of its 43mm diameter case (52mm lug-to-lug, 10.8mm thickness) but is every bit as tough and tactical as it looks. A true hero piece if you don’t mind the price tag.

Retail Price: $4,450.00 

Girard-Perregaux Casquette 2.0 (ref. 39800-32-001-32A)

While one may not think of forward-thinking materials luxury watchmaker Girard-Perregaux as a digital watchmaker, it holds true that, as with many traditional watchmakers of the day, they either had to adapt with the times of the quartz revolution or go bust. Between 1976 and 1978, Girard-Perregaux produced the original Casquette digital watch (8200 examples made). 

With the reintroduction of the line in the Casquette 2.0, it’s safe to assume that G-P wouldn’t hold back, and indeed, they haven’t. Now constructed of scratch-resistant ceramic (case) and Grade 5 titanium (caseback), the Casquette 2.0 now weighs 107g, with augmented comfort via the rubber interior of the bracelet, providing more flex against the wrist. 

Keeping the same design language of the original, the digital display now includes a chronograph, date, day, hours and minutes, month, secret date, year, and second timezone functions. 

Retail Price: $4,700 

Omega Speedmaster Skywalker X-33 (ref. 318.90.45.79.01.001)

The Omega Speedmaster Skywalker X-33 (ref. 318.90.45.79.01.001) is a pinnacle of innovative engineering and modern design. Inspired by Omega’s ties to space exploration, the watch showcases a sleek grade 2 titanium case and bracelet, offering durability and a lightweight feel for practical use.

The digital-analog display is intuitive and features many functions, including multiple timezones, chronograph, countdown timer, alarm, perpetual calendar, and more. The scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the dial, which boasts bold white markers and hands for excellent legibility. The X-33 is powered by a high-precision quartz caliber (Omega Caliber 5619), guaranteeing accuracy.

This timepiece is a homage to Omega’s legacy in space and a testament to the brand’s commitment to pushing boundaries, making it an exceptional choice for those who admire cutting-edge technology and a connection to the cosmos. 

And let’s not forget it’s also flight-qualified by NASA for space missions and is still issued and used by both American and European astronauts on the ISS.

Retail Price: $5,900.00 

Conclusion

As we journey into the future, digital watches continue to intrigue us with their unique blend of innovation, functionality, and style. They have come a long way from their humble beginnings as novelty items to becoming essential companions in our daily lives. Embracing technology while staying true to their classic roots, digital watches can offer the best of both worlds. 

Whether you are a fitness enthusiast, a fashion-forward trendsetter, or simply someone who values convenience and accuracy, a digital watch can be the perfect accessory to complement your lifestyle. As time progresses, these modern timepieces will continue to evolve, leaving an indelible mark on the ever-changing landscape of horology.