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Since the early '70s, quartz technology has enjoyed an unprecedented success story in the watch world. Where the capabilities of mechanical timepieces reach their limits, electronic calibers score with unmatched precision and an impressive range of functions. But the sheer number of manufacturers and collections makes it hard to see the forest for the trees. We bring clarity and present five of the best quartz watches for men – from luxurious to affordable.
Top-Tier Technology: Breitling Chronospace Military
What hybrid models are to the automotive world, the Breitling Chronospace Military is on the wrist: measuring a hefty 46 millimeters, it combines the familiarity of a classic dial with the flexibility of two backlit LCD displays. These provide access to the extensive feature set of the COSC-certified SuperQuartz caliber 78: with a 1/100th-second chronograph (with split time and a maximum timing interval of 100 days) and a timer joined by a second time zone, a minute repeater, and an alarm, nothing is left to be desired. The stainless steel or titanium case features a bidirectional rotating compass bezel, a resonance chamber to amplify acoustic signals, and a scratch-resistant DLC coating.
The latter gives this 15.5-millimeter-thick powerhouse a dark, focused look that perfectly suits the technical sophistication of these quartz watches. Large, square luminous numerals in white make reading the time child's play. Given the high performance, a battery life of two to three years is impressive, while the 50-meter water resistance falls short of expectations. On dry land, however, these quartz watches for men prove to be virtually indestructible. The stainless steel version on a polyamide fabric strap (Ref. M78367101B1W1) is priced at €5,500.
Performance and Exoticism: Omega Speedmaster Spacemaster Z33
We also find the symbiosis of analog and digital elements in the Omega Speedmaster Spacemaster Z33: belonging to the rarest Speedmaster collections, the 43-millimeter titanium model is a true insider tip for fans of high-end quartz. Beneath the exotic, shield-shaped front ticks the newly developed Omega caliber 5666, which combines classic timing features (chronograph, countdown timer) with calendar functions (second time zone, perpetual calendar, date, alarm) and programmable pilot functions. Up to ten flights can be logged and displayed with date and time information.
The layout beneath the anti-reflective sapphire crystal is fascinating. Here, two LCD windows contain a function menu for operating these quartz watches for men. Above the displays sit three analog hands which, as with classic timepieces, are set using a crown at 3 o'clock. Four additional pushers allow intuitive operation of all functions. On the wrist, the Biel outsider is worn on a black rubber strap, a brown leather strap, or a solid titanium bracelet. The attachment of the straps on the underside contributes to its unmistakable look. On the titanium bracelet, the Spacemaster (Ref. 325.92.43.79.01.001) costs €5,800.
Creative Elegance: Bruno Söhnle Facetta
If you prefer unusual case shapes, you don't have to spend a fortune. The Bruno Söhnle Facetta proves it, its 46-millimeter diameter being unexpectedly massive for the successful Glashütte brand. Even so, these quartz watches don't look oversized on the wrist, largely thanks to the wide, elongated cushion shape of their stainless steel cases. Our favorite model is Ref. 17-13168-248 with a white dial and black subdials: it nicely showcases the characteristic layout with small seconds, panorama date, and retrograde day-of-the-week display. The dial structure is not only clear and unique but also appeals with its symmetrical aesthetics.
These men's watches draw their power from the Ronda 7004.N quartz caliber, with 48 months of battery life and an energy-saving function when the crown is pulled out. The manufacturer's price of €745 puts a high-quality overall package on the wrist, with a solid bracelet, anti-reflective sapphire crystal, and bright luminous hands. Making an impression without screaming for attention – if that motto resonates with you, you'll love these elegant quartz watches for men from the traditional Saxon watchmaking town.
Masculine Powerhouse: Tag Heuer Aquaracer 300M Quartz Chronograph 43mm
Our next candidate is a true classic in the universe of high-end quartz men's watches: the Tag Heuer Aquaracer 300M Quartz Chronograph 43mm (Ref. CAY111B.BA0927). A long name that sums up the key features of this rugged Swiss watch. A substantial but not monstrous 43 millimeters in size, it withstands depths of up to 300 meters and times events precisely to the tenth of a second. Unmistakable is the angular rotating bezel, which emphasizes the sporty character and, with the modern typography of its minute scale, announces from afar: I am an Aquaracer.
The angular design continues on the dial, where the stainless steel chronograph features three subdials: while the 30-minute counter and small seconds are understated, the tenth-of-a-second subdial above 6 o'clock enjoys its own frame and houses a small date window. In typical Tag Heuer fashion, no expense was spared on the generous Super-LumiNova coating of these powerful quartz watches for men. Saving is a good keyword, because the electronic movement makes the Aquaracer considerably more affordable than comparable automatic chronographs from Saint-Imier. On the solid stainless steel bracelet, it costs €2,150.
Oversized Dominance: TW-Steel Maverick Chronograph
Wearers of the TW-Steel Maverick Chronograph (Ref. MS104) have two options: either their wrist is strong enough to carry off the gigantic 48-millimeter diameter, or they don't take themselves too seriously. Either way, fans of large timepieces get their money's worth with this high-polished 316L stainless steel model and receive plenty of value for the manufacturer's price of €349. The Maverick's feature set includes 100 meters of water resistance with a screw-down crown, hardened mineral crystal with sapphire coating, and a serious, well-structured dial. Its dark blue sunburst finish gives these quartz watches for men an upscale appearance. Rounded off by large Arabic numerals and a tachymeter scale on the edge.
Power comes from the 6S10 caliber by Japanese mass manufacturer Miyota – a reliable all-rounder whose low purchase price contributes to the Maverick's affordable pricing. A full four years of autonomy speaks for itself. If you prefer a meaner look, opt for one of the black-coated cases (e.g., Ref. MS33), whose 45-millimeter diameter houses the related 6S21 movement.
