Men’s EDC Gear

Our top pick should come as little surprise. The Citizen Black Eco-Drive Axiom has a clean edge-to-edge design without hour markers other than a 12 o’clock dash, making the face nearly as simple as could be.

The main reason this watch is our top pick is that it represents the category perfectly. Low key and balanced in it’s design, this piece is a standout in the class.

Made by heavy-hitter Citizen and featuring the well-known Eco-Drive system which powers the watch with ambient light, you know this watch will not only last but is supported by a world-class watchmaker.

The second watch in our list is the Orient ‘2nd Gen Bambino Version III. This is a modern Japanese take on the minimalist style.

Often noted for its build quality at any price, many reviewers use this watch in a dress setting due to the sunburst dial and domed crystal. It also features in-house designed automatic hackable movement, and ability to hand-wind.

All movements are made in Japan and Orient has been manufacturing mechanical watches for 65 years now. There are 4 styles to choose from which should make finding the right look for you a snap.

Reviewers do mention that the case at 40.5mm is on the larger side, so keep this in mind if you have smaller wrists or just prefer watches in the 35-39mm range.

Although last on our list, this next pick may very well be first on yours. The Nixon A105 Sentry watch makes for a solid all-around choice at well under the $200 mark, with some styles even falling into the double-digits.

Stand-out features start with no less than 24 individual styles to choose from, along with Japanese quartz movement and 100m water resistance. Reviews are extremely solid at 4.3 with almost 500 reviews.

As long as the larger size (42mm) is compatible with your tastes, the ability to choose from so many styles makes this watch almost custom in nature.

First up is a watch that you may not have heard of.  The VAVC Simple Black takes the top spot mostly on value alone. Two color options keep it simple with a black-on-black design and a touch of color in either red or blue depending on your choice.

Though lesser known, VAVC offers a 2-year warranty and reviewers have noted a helpful and responsive support presence when needed. Most reviewers claim that the watch looks as good or better in person then they expected.

Some claim that this is an MVMT clone at a cheaper price, but that the differences are negligible. And notice the size; at 42mm it’s not a small piece, so consider that when you make your choice!

The second watch in our list is the Stuhrling Original Ascot. With a classic take on the minimalist theme, this watch skews more traditional than modern but without needless ornamentation.

Examples of this are the leaf-style hands and onion-style crown along with the highly polished case and leather band. The detail work even extends to the bottom of the case with stylized engraving. Even if only the wearer recognizes these touches, sometimes that’s enough.

With Swiss movement and a decent 50m water resistance, this watch is the more refined choice, if a touch more expensive.

And our final pick is for those of you thoroughly unconcerned with status and bragging rights, but find pleasure in finding hidden treasure. The SONGDU Analog is simplicity itself with 5 styles to select from.

Easily the least expensive of our choices, this watch is no less winning.  Reviewers are mostly smitten with the watch for its handsome looks and strong value. Also, note the sleek 7.5mm case thickness.

While form and function are highly rated, keep in mind that at this price point, materials must be kept fairly basic. The watch face is simple glass and therefore may scratch more easily than crystal. For a casual use watch, this is a fair trade-off.