If your watch collection is missing a chronograph, now’s the perfect time to add one. Today, chronographs are as much about style as they are about function, with their subdials and pushers enhancing both the visual appeal and versatility of a watch.
What is a Chronograph Watch?
A chronograph watch is a timepiece that combines traditional timekeeping with a built-in stopwatch function. The word “chronograph” originates from the Greek words *chronos* (time) and *graph* (writing), literally meaning “time recorder.”
A basic chronograph has an independent sweep second hand and a minute sub-dial; it can be started, stopped, and returned to zero by successive pressure on the stem. More complex chronographs use additional complications and can have multiple sub-dials to measure seconds, minutes, hours and even fractions of a second. In addition, many modern chronographs use moveable bezels as tachymeters for rapid calculations of speed or distance. –
While I’ve compiled a list of popular chronographs under $1,000, personal preference is essential—so it’s always a good idea to try on a few to find the perfect fit and style for you.
Seiko Prospex Speedtimer SSC813 –
The original 1969 Seiko Speedtimer was among the first self-winding chronographs, featuring the legendary Caliber 6139. In its modern Prospex revival, Seiko replaced the automatic movement with the advanced solar-powered Caliber V192, which runs for up to six months on a single charge. The white dial, with a sand-blasted texture, is framed by a black tachymeter bezel and includes three black subdials, a date calendar, and beige LumiBrite hands and markers.
Seagull 1963 Bronze Lume Edition –
A mechanical chronograph under $500 is almost unheard of, making the Seagull 1963 Chronograph a true rarity. Inspired by a watch made for the Chinese Air Force in 1963, it’s powered by the manually wound ST19 caliber, produced entirely in Seagull’s factory in China using machinery acquired from Venus, a former Swiss movement maker. Crafted by the Tianjin Watch Factory on original 1950s equipment and assembled by hand, it features 21 jewels and a sturdy 42-hour power reserve. With its authentic mid-century military design, the Seagull 1963 Chronograph offers exceptional value.
Bulova Lunar Pilot –
When it comes to space watches, options are limited and often expensive, with the being the most iconic. However, there’s a lesser-known but noteworthy alternative: the Bulova Lunar Pilot. This watch made space history on August 2, 1971, during the Apollo 15 mission, when a Bulova chronograph, specially designed for lunar conditions, was worn on the moon. Bulova has continued this legacy with the Lunar Pilot Chronograph, now equipped with a high-performance quartz movement featuring a 262 kHz frequency for exceptional accuracy. Housed in a stainless steel case with a black dial and sapphire glass, the Bulova Lunar Pilot offers a vintage-inspired design at a much more accessible price, starting at $775—making it the most affordable way to own a space-tested timepiece.
Baltic Bicompax 002 –
The first edition of the Baltic Bicompax was my entry into the world of chronographs, and it quickly opened the door to more. The 38mm case provides outstanding wrist comfort, thanks to its brushed step-case design. The dial showcases a pad-printed sector layout with crisp silver detailing on a brushed black-charcoal surface, achieving a near-perfect symmetry, subtly interrupted by the crosshair design of the small seconds subdial. This nuanced touch highlights Baltic’s growing sophistication as a brand. Baltic’s website allows for strap customization, starting at $588 on leather, but the steel beads-of-rice bracelet adds an extra layer of luxury.
Vaer R1 USA Racing Chronograph –
If you crave vintage style with a modern twist, Vaer’s R1 USA Racing Chronograph is a strong contender. Inspired by the iconic 70s color palette of the original R1, this updated model boasts enhanced dial design and readability, thanks to the refined Seiko VK-63 tri-compax layout. Available in both 38mm and 42mm case sizes, it combines classic aesthetics with the robust durability features of Vaer’s current R1 lineup.
Unimatic UC3 Classic Watch –
Crafted in Italy, this chrono diver is both sleek and durable, blending precision with style. The two subdials offer precise timekeeping, while the functional nylon strap complements the watch’s practicality. The matte black dial, enhanced by luminescent markers, maintains a refined, understated look. Powered by a Seiko Meca-quartz movement, it features distinctive phantom ladder hour and minute hands, and a sweeping lollipop second hand. Each individually numbered timepiece comes in a protective Unimatic Tough Case.
Shinola Runwell Chrono 41mm –
The Shinola Runwell Chrono 41mm is a sophisticated timepiece that seamlessly blends classic aesthetics with modern functionality. Its polished stainless steel case houses a striking silver dial, complemented by a matching stainless steel bracelet for a refined look. Equipped with the American-made Argonite 5040 chronograph movement, the watch offers precise timekeeping with its 60-second subdial, 30-minute counter, and date display. It’s pretty, it’s efficient, and it’s a good look for wearing nearly anywhere, from work to a wedding.
Citizen Eco-Drive Radio-Controlled Chronograph World Timer –
The Citizen Eco-Drive Radio-Controlled Chronograph World Timer is a sophisticated timepiece designed for global adventurers and precision enthusiasts. Equipped with Eco-Drive technology, it harnesses light energy to power the watch, eliminating the need for battery replacements. Its radio-controlled function ensures unparalleled accuracy by automatically synchronizing with atomic time signals worldwide. The intricate dial features multiple subdials for chronograph functions, including 60-minute and 24-hour counters, enhancing its functionality for diverse timekeeping needs.
MoonSwatch Mission To The Super Blue Moonphase –
This captivating MoonSwatch boasts a striking blue opaline dial, adorned with a moonphase indicator highlighted by UV-reactive blue ink. Standard chronograph functions complement the unique design, while Super-LumiNova®-coated hands and markers ensure exceptional visibility in low-light conditions. Intriguingly, this MoonSwatch diverges from the series norm by featuring a pulsometer scale instead of a tachymeter, sparking curiosity about its true MoonWatch lineage.
Casio GSTB100D-1A –
The Casio G-Shock GST-B100D-1A is a rugged and sophisticated timepiece that seamlessly blends G-Shock’s legendary durability with cutting-edge technology. This G-STEEL model boasts a robust design, packed with features like Tough Solar power, Bluetooth connectivity, and world time, all while maintaining a stylish aesthetic. Priced at $440, it offers exceptional value for a watch capable of handling any challenge.
Autodromo Prototipo Chronograph –
The Prototipo Chronograph is a stylish homage to the golden age of motorsport. Its 42mm stainless steel cushion case houses a vibrant blue dial accented with bold red and white details, evoking the spirit of classic race cars. Powered by a precision Seiko VK63 hybrid meca-quartz movement, the chronograph boasts a mechanical reset for a tactile experience. The tachymeter/pulsometer bezel, adorned with racing-inspired markings, completes the high-octane look.
