Our Favorite Watches Under $1,500 Of 2025

The Alpinist, the first dedicated Seiko sports watch, traces its long history back to 1959, with an original model that was targeted, as its name implies, to outdoorsmen such as mountain climbers. The newest version, which joins Seiko’s Prospex “Land” series and replaces the previous, very successful  SPB121, is notable for its addition of the vintage cursive “Alpinist” logo to the dial, an element not present on the SPB121. Like its predecessor, this reference takes its aesthetic cues from the now-classic SARB017 reference, reimagining that vintage piece with a contemporary spin. Faithful to the historical models are the cathedral hands, gold accents on the markers and numerals, and magnifying lens over the date at 3 o’clock.

New in the Prospex versions is the dark green dial that contrasts attractively with the golden details, the “X” logo above 6 o’clock (albeit a smaller, more understated one than that of the SPB121), which identifies the timepiece as a member of the Prospex family. The other upgrade from the SPB121 is on the inside, Seiko’s in-house 6R55 automatic caliber, which extends the power reserve of its forerunner, Caliber 6R35, to a full three days, or 72 hours. Additional bonuses for actual mountaineers and other adventurous explorer types: the inner rotating compass bezel, operated by the additional crown at 4 o’clock, and the return on this model of the vintage Alpinist’s mountain logo on the caseback. — Mark Bernardo

[toc-section heading="Tissot PRX 38mm"]The Tissot PRX is now available in a 38mm case for the first time, granting the wishes of scores of enthusiasts. In making the move to this coveted size, the brand has now addressed this gap with what many will see as the “just right” PRX, a Goldilocks 38mm diameter case in three initial versions, including two in full titanium, and a striking Damascus steel version. Where the titanium iterations give you all the feels in terms of the familiarity of the PRX you know and love, the Damascus takes things to that next level including a Damascus dial with a lovely and wonky wavy effect. Overall the 38mm line in general looks every bit a PRX, but the proportions are better than ever. Between titanium and Damascus this stands as a deeply interesting addition to the PRX lineup in terms of materials. In the titanium configuration, the anthracite dial is elegant and attractive. And overall, you get this new size while still getting a movement with a mammoth power reserve via the Powermatic 80 ETA C07.111. The 38mm size looks to be a big part of the future of the PRX line, much to the delight of everyone. — Danny Milton

[toc-section heading="Citizen Zenshin 60 Titanium"]

Though it hasn’t quite yet gained the mainstream popularity of the Tsuyosa, Citizen’s Zenshin collection is a value-packed powerhouse within the brand’s contemporary catalog. Previously, only Solar-Powered with the brand’s Eco-Drive technology, 2025 is the year the Zenshin went mechanical. The calling card of the Zenshin is its architectural, integrated bracelet style, which continues to be a difficult category to find under the $1,000 mark, let alone under $700 and in titanium. Measuring 40.5mm, the Zenshin 60 automatic is powered by the 8213 caliber, with several colorful, textured dial options to choose from. — Erin Wilborn