Top 11 Best affordable EDC Watches – EDC Survival watch [List & Guide]
There is an endless selection of timepieces on the market today. As a matter of fact, there are wristwatches for any and all kinds of different tastes, preferences, needs, and purposes. Going diving? Wear a dive watch. Going to dinner? wear a dress watch. Going swimming? Wear a swim dive watch.
Wearing a watch that is built for the purpose is a good idea not only to make sure that the watch matches the occasion in terms of style but also, and perhaps more importantly, to make sure it provides optimum functionality and convenience. And, in many cases, also is able to withstand everything you may subject it to.
This brings us to the purpose of this post.
So, before we dig in, what is EDC?
EDC means ”Everyday carry”, and as defined by Wikipedia, it is:
”a collection of useful items that are consistently carried on person every day. The main reasons for having EDC are utility and preparedness; to help individuals overcome simple everyday problems, including possible emergency situations.”
With that said, an EDC watch shouldn’t be a watch that is built for one particular purpose. It should not be a dress watch that is only suitable to use on formal occasions, it should not be a
Instead, an EDC watch should be a versatile watch that can be worn on any occasion. Some could call it an everyday watch, but we would argue that an EDC watch should be more functional than that, but also with a touch of elegance. An EDC watch should be tough enough to handle more sporty occasions, but it should also be elegant enough for everyday wear – both casual and more formal.
With that said, since the criteria aren’t too strict, there is a lot to choose from that fit into this category. And which you choose naturally also depends on what you prefer. Digital watches can classify as EDC watches, and so do mechanical watches of course. Many different types of watches with all kinds of different functions can classify as EDC watches, but the keyword when looking for an EDC watch is versatility.
If you’re not willing to spend thousands and thousands of dollars on a watch, you’re probably looking for something more affordable. Plus, an EDC watch may be worn in demanding and harsh environments, and in these situations, it is not ideal to wear an expensive luxury watch anyway that you’re afraid to scratch.
So without further ado, let’s have a look at some of the best affordable EDC watches on the market in the affordable segment, ranging from less than 100 USD upwards to a few hundred dollars, depending on your budget.
Best affordable budget EDC watches (Top EDC survival watches)
As an Amazon Associate, we may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.
Hamilton H64455133 Khaki King II
First up, we have the Hamilton Khaki King II H64455133. This one is more on the sporty side with a clear pilot-inspired design language. But with that said, it is still extremely versatile and makes for a perfect EDC watch. It is tough, durable, and functional, but it is also refined enough to work for everyday wear.
The watch features a stainless steel case with a diameter of 40mm and a sapphire crystal on top. The crown is protected by crown guards, and the upper side of the case is brushed, contrasted by a polished bezel.
The water resistance is not the most impressive at 50m/165 feet, but at the same time, this is built as a pilot watch, so water resistance isn’t really crucial from that aspect. At the same time, 50M is enough for everyday wear and handling the usual water splashes. It’s just not suitable for diving.
Powering this EDC watch is an automatic movement – which is part of the reason why Hamilton watches are so popular amongst watch enthusiasts. Further on, the watch also has a see-through case back, allowing you to view the movement from the back.
The dial is clean, monochrome, and refined. It also incorporates several functions that can come in handy. First off, it has a black dial with a subtle pattern to keep it from being too flat and boring. In the traditional Pilot watch style, it has large Arabic numerals, both for 12-hour and 24-hour measurements.
At 12 o’clock, it also has a day and a date window neatly integrated into its design.
All in all, this is a functional, sporty, and versatile EDC watch that is suitable for all kinds of different occasions. It is also tough enough to withstand more demanding and harsh environments when you need it.
Specifications
- Diameter: 40mm
- Water resistance: 50m/165 feet
- Thickness: 12mm
- Movement: Automatic
- Crystal: Sapphire
Seiko 5 Automatic SNZG15J1
The Seiko 5 collection is considered to be one of the best collections of affordable automatic and versatile timepieces on the market. And indeed, there’s no denying that they offer extremely great value for money.
The Seiko 5 SNZG15J1 is also known as one of the most versatile. It combines quality and functionality with versatility. Whilst it leans towards a field watch/sport watch, this watch works perfectly as an everyday watch. It has just the right balance between sportiness and versatility that an EDC watch needs.
It has a 42mm stainless steel case with a matte finish to add that extra touch of sportiness and a thickness of 12mm. The watch is also powered by an automatic movement.
With its price, quality, finish, and versatility, I have to argue that this is definitely one of the best options out there for an EDC watch.
Specifications
- Diameter: 42mm
- Thickness: 12mm
- Water resistance: 100m/330 feet
- Movement: Automatic
Casio MDV106-1AV 200M Duro
Next up, we have what is one of my favorite watches. And I still cannot believe how a watch that has such great quality and performance can be so insanely affordable, coming in at just around 50 USD.
This is a dive watch at its core, but it is also surprisingly versatile. For everyone who prefers larger and more bulky timepieces, this is a good option.
It has a bulky stainless steel case measuring 44mm in diameter with squared-off lugs and crown guards protecting the large crown. On top of the case, it features a unidirectional rotating bezel with a black aluminum insert (naturally, since it is a dive watch)
The dial is clean and refined and offers good legibility as a dive watch should. The dial is black with a nice sunburst finish making it much more vibrant when the sunlight hits it. The dial has applied hour markers filled with luminescent material and large hands for optimism contrast. At 3 o’clock, we also find a date window which is convenient for everyday wear.
Despite being a dive watch, it is a popular choice as an EDC watch for many people. By now, you have probably seen just how many people wear dive watches as their everyday watch, and that is because they are surprisingly versatile. It makes a good choice if you enjoy sporty designs, but also want something that can handle harsh environments when your life calls for it.
Specifications
- Movement: Japanese quartz movement
- Water resistance: 200 meters (660 feet)
- Crystal: Mineral crystal
- Diameter: 44mm
- Lug-to-lug: 48mm
- Height: 12mm
- Weight: 92 grams case weight
Seiko SRPE67 Seiko 5
The Seiko 5 SRPE67 is an upgraded and revised version of the previous highly popular SKX. Although, this model is not a dive watch, instead, it is designed as a versatile EDC watch. At the same time, it retains several features that people love and appreciate about the SKX.
The SRPE67 has a stainless steel case with a diameter of 44.6mm and a thickness of 11.5mm. The case has The Seiko 5’s iconic crown position at 4 o’clock which not only improves comfort when wearing it but also gives it a unique and distinct look.
The interesting part about this design is that it has dive watch design elements, such as large applied hour markers filled with luminescent material, large hands, a matte black dial, and a case inspired by the SKX, but isn’t one. It does have a sporty, casual look to it, but it still works on many different occasions.
The water resistance of this timepiece is 100m/330 feet which is enough for an EDC watch in most cases.
Specifications
- Water resistance: 100m/330 feet
- Thickness: 11.5mm
- Diameter: 40mm
- Length: 44.6mm
- Movement: automatic 4R36
- Power reserve: 41 hours
Timex Weekender Chronograph
If you’re looking for an affordable and more elegant EDC watch, the Timex Weekender is a suitable choice.
This watch has a rounded 40mm brass case with simple, slim straight lugs. On top sits a mineral crystal. For a casual look, it is presented on a brown leather NATO strap. It is presented with a dark blue dial and has three chronograph sub-dials. The dial has large white Arabic numerals for improved legibility and a date window subtly incorporated at 4 o’clock. It has a 30-minute chronograph that measures 1/20th second
For improved legibility, it has an illumination feature that illuminates the entire dial with the push of a button using Electroluminescent Indiglo night-light technology.
The water resistance isn’t the most impressive at 30m/100 feet, so it is not the most durable EDC watch, but if you don’t find yourself in too harsh environments, it should do the job.
Specifications
- Diameter: 40mm
- Water resistance: 30m/100 feet
- Crystal: Mineral glass
- Movement: quartz
Seiko 5 SNK809 Automatic
Next up, we have another Seiko 5 in this list, the reference SNK809. This is without a doubt one of the most popular Seiko 5 watches in the collection, and there are many good reasons for this. Firstly, with a price of around 100 USD, it offers exceptional value for money considering what you are actually getting.
Secondly, this is a perfect EDC watch that is extremely versatile and functional. It can be worn on any occasion and is known for being robust and powered by a workhorse movement.
The watch has a 37mm stainless steel case with a matte finish for a more sporty look. The thickness measures 11mm which is also quite slim. Inside the watch is an automatic movement, specifically the Seiko Caliber 7S26, featuring a power reserve of approximately 40 hours. And in classic Seiko 5 fashion, it has a Hardlex crystal on top.
The water resistance is the only thing that isn’t very impressive at 30m/100 feet, but this isn’t a dive watch anyway. It is meant as a functional and versatile timepiece for any and all occasions.
The dial is well executed with a black background and a military-inspired layout with relatively large Arabic numerals for the hours and seconds, as well as large diamond-shaped hands filled with luminescent material. At 3 o’clock, it also has a day and date window, which is to be expected from a Seiko 5.
Speaking as someone who has owned this watch for years, you really cannot go wrong with the SNK809. It’s super cheap as well (extremely cheap if you consider what you are actually getting), and it works on so many different occasions.
Specifications
- Diameter: 37mm
- Thickness: 11mm
- Water resistance: 30m/100 feet
- Movement: Automatic 7S26
- Crystal: Hardlex
Casio Solar Powered Steel Quartz
This Casio Solar watch is exactly what many people have in mind when they think of a functional EDC watch. It leans more towards sportiness, but it is versatile enough to be worn on most occasions.
Priced at less than 100 USD, it’s also extremely affordable, meaning it won’t break the bank, and also that you won’t have to worry too much about getting it scratched or damaged. It has a stainless steel case with a diameter of 46.9mm which is on the larger side, meaning you’ll be best off if you have large wrists or a preference for large watches.
The case has a sporty design with a fixed stainless steel bezel indicating the seconds and a mostly polished finish. The water resistance is 100m/330 feet which makes it suitable for swimming and handling water splashes.
Since this watch is designed for functionality – for EDC use – it has a black dial with a military layout, featuring both 12-hour and 24-hour Arabic numerals on the dial. To ensure good legibility, it has lume-filled, large hands.
Positioned at 3 o’clock, it has a day and a date window, which is always practical to have in an EDC watch, and on top of the case sits a mineral glass.
Powering this watch is a solar quartz movement which is also practical since it means you won’t have to replace its batteries. The movement is powered by solar and ambient light to keep it going. To add a touch of sportiness, it has a military green canvas strap and a subtle detail which is the tip of the second hand which is colored green.
Specifications
- Water resistance: 100m/330 feet
- Crystal: Mineral glass
- Movement: Solar quartz
- Diameter: 46.9mm
- Thickness: 10.9mm
Timex Expedition Scout 40
The Timex Expedition Scout 40 is a popular EDC watch due to its affordability (priced at around 50 USD, making it extremely affordable), and its functionality.
This timepiece is made with a 40mm brass case and features clear military-inspired design elements. The case has a traditional field watch design with squared-off lugs and a matte finish. It has a large crown and a mineral crystal on top.
The dial is black and obviously has military 12-hour and 24-hour Arabic numerals printed in white. The hands are filled with luminescent material and are designed for optimum legibility.
This watch has a discreet date window at 3 o’clock and does exactly what it is supposed to do, which is to offer great legibility. To go with its military theme, it is presented on a military green canvas strap.
The great thing about this watch is that it has Timex’s signature Indiglo feature which enables you to light up the watch dial in low-lit conditions to make it easier to read the time. Since this is not a dive watch, it only has a water resistance of 50m/165 feet, but it should be enough for regular everyday EDC wear.
Last but not least, this watch is powered by a quartz movement.
Specifications
- Diameter: 40mm
- Water resistance: 50m/165 feet
- Crystal: Mineral glass
- Movement: quartz
Timex Expedition Acadia
The Timex Expedition Acadia is a sporty and bold EDC watch that is designed for functionality and has a cool design with its all-black design.
It retains Timex’s signature Expedition design with a military field-watch-inspired case and dial. What’s interesting is that the 40mm case is made in durable resin, making it not only affordable but also extremely light. The dial is also black but has large contrasting hour markers and Arabic numerals, both 12-hour and 24-hour markers. At 3 o’clock, it has a discreet and small date window. The hands are filled with luminescence and have a brushed finish.
This watch of course also has Timex’s signature Indiglo function which lights up the watch dial to help improve legibility in low-lit conditions.
The water resistance is 50m/165 feet, meaning it can handle water splashes and short periods of recreational swimming.
All in all, it is a clean, simple, military-inspired timeless watch with a timeless design that is very versatile.
Specifications
- Diameter: 40mm
- Water resistance: 50m/165 feet
Orient Kamasu Automatic Diving Watch
Orient Kamasu is one of the most popular affordable automatic watches on the market. That has much to do with the fact that for only slightly more than 200 USD, you’re really getting your money’s worth. It also has a beautiful, timeless design.
And the fact is that a dive watch can actually be an everyday carry watch. Today, the dive watch is one of the most popular types of watches on the market today – even though the vast majority of people who wear them never go close to water, not to mention diving. Dive watches are surprisingly versatile and look just amazing with jeans and a t-shirt as they do with more formal attire.
The Orient Kamasu is presented with a 41.8mm stainless steel case with a traditional dive watch design, meaning crown guards protecting the crown, and a unidirectional rotating bezel. In this case, the watch has a blue aluminum bezel insert which matches the dial perfectly and adds a touch of color. On top of the case sits a sapphire crystal. The bezel rotates one full rotation with 120 clicks.
This watch also has the water resistance that we expect in a dive watch – 200m/660 feet, meaning it is suitable for both diving and swimming. This is great for the times when you may find yourself in more demanding environments.
The dial is also beautifully made with just the right amount of details and features that you expect in a dive watch. It has large luminous hands and large applied hour markers filled with luminescent material. The dial is dark blue and has a stunning brushed sunburst finish which reflects the light beautifully. Positioned at 3 o’clock, it also has a day and date window which is a convenient thing to have.
Specifications
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Diameter: 41.8mm
- Water resistance: 200m/660 feet
Citizen Corso Eco-Drive
Last but not least, we have the Citizen Corso Eco-Drive. This one is more on the elegant side, but not so elegant that it only works on formal occasions. It is a perfect everyday carry watch for those who prefer more elegant watches and wear formal attire or business casual for the most part.
The watch has a stainless steel case with a diameter of 41mm and a thin polished bezel, meaning most of the watch’s property is taken up by the dial. At the same time, Citizen has done a great job with the finishing of the case by including polished bevels and nice brushed elements which elevates the impression of quality in this timepiece. On top of the cases sits a sapphire crystal.
The watch is powered by Citizen’s Eco-Drive E111 caliber, meaning it gets energy from solar and ambient light, thus eliminating the need for replacing its battery.
The dial is designed to be timeless and simple yet beautiful and functional. It has a grey dial with a beautiful brushed finish, contrasted by applied copper/rose gold hour markers and slim pencil hands. The copper metal goes really well together with the grey and elevates its elegance. At 3 o’clock, it also has a date window with a metal frame around it. Despite being only priced at around 150 USD, Citizen has done a great job with the details.
Last but not least, the watch is presented on a stainless steel bracelet, making it slightly more versatile than if it would be presented on a leather strap.
Specifications
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Movement: Solar Eco-Drive quartz
- Diameter: 41mm
- Water resistance: 100m/330 feet
Affordable EDC watch buyer’s guide
Just when buying any watch, there are a number of things you need to take into consideration to make sure you find the perfect watch for your needs and preferences. Since the definition EDC watch – everyday carry watch – is so wide, it fits many types of different watches. So let’s look at some of the most important criteria you need to consider when buying an EDC watch.
Size
First off, one of the most important aspects when buying any type of watch is its size. The ideal size of a watch depends on your preference, wrist size, and also the type of watch. Since an EDC watch should be versatile, it should not be too big, nor too small, as it needs to be versatile and work for many different occasions. For men’s watches, the normal size is around 38-41mm, but if you have smaller or larger wrists, your ideal EDC size may be larger or smaller than that. With that said, start by figuring out which sizes work best for you. This will allow you to narrow down the alternatives, making it easier to find the perfect watch for you.
Purpose
Next, you want to consider the purpose. The point of an EDC watch is to be versatile and work on many different occasions. But your lifestyle also affects how sporty or how elegant it should be. For example, if you often find yourself in formal attire, you should look for an EDC watch that is more sporty, as opposed to if you are often outdoors, hiking, running, etc.
With this in mind, figure out how you will use your watch and then decide which type of EDC watch works best for these occasions.
Movement
The next consideration is the movement. Watches can be powered by quartz, solar, or mechanical movements. Watch enthusiasts naturally tend to gravitate towards mechanical movements for obvious reasons, but both quartz and mechanical have their own sets of pros and cons. Quartz watches tend to be more accurate than mechanical watches, but watch enthusiasts don’t find them as interesting as mechanical ones. Solar watches, on the other hand, solve the problem of having to replace the battery of a quartz watch, which is a convenient thing.
Functions
The functions of a timepiece are an important consideration to have. What functions do you need in a watch? It’s good to decide on the most crucial functions that you want in a watch before setting out to look for one. Some people absolutely want a day-and-date function, others only want the timekeeping, some want a chronograph function, and others may look for a GMT function. Different timepieces offer different functions, so defining what you absolutely need in a watch will help you narrow down your options.
Water resistance
Last but not least, we have water resistance. If you never go swimming or diving with your watch, this is not an important consideration for you. But if you frequently go swimming with your watch, you need to look for a watch that has a water resistance that is suitable enough for swimming. Therefore, think about whether or not the water resistance of a timepiece is important for you.
