Watches

Hi, I am being gifted a $500 men's watch, and was told to figure out which one I wanted, but don't know much about them in that price range (I tend to only wear watches sub $100)...Could someone please guide me on what brands to consider in that price range?

TIA

That's a tough price-range. Personally I'd go with a high end Casios with all the bells and whistles. Solar, Atomic, Chronograph, Altimeter, Alarm, etc. I have their pro-trex series and love it. Although mine was only around $300.

Others to look at:
Seiko
Citizen

Probably could find a Bulova if you want a dressier watch.

There are a bunch of good ones. Watch forums are a good place to start reading. For example, if there are enthusiasts discussing any of these brands, then they're something I'd consider:
http://www.watchuseek.com/site/forums.htm
http://www.watchtalkforums.info/forums/forum.php
http://www.thewatchforum.co.uk/
http://watchlords.forumotion.net/forum

Plus, go to various department store, jewelry store, and other websites to see watches in this category. For example, Costco:
http://www.costco.com/Common/Cate...lang=en-US
http://www.neimanmarcus.com/categ...at42120746

Then cross-reference the interesting-looking watches against the forums. Use google to find reviews. Decide whether you want a full-featured cheaper brand (like a higher-end Seiko or Citizen) or an intro-level "premium" watch like Movado or Tag Heuer. Plus, search online for watch-buying guides like this:
http://www.chronocentric.com/watc...ands.shtml

Thank you guys! This is a great starting point.

Quote from tophan47 : Hi, I am being gifted a $500 men's watch, and was told to figure out which one I wanted, but don't know much about them in that price range (I tend to only wear watches sub $100)...Could someone please guide me on what brands to consider in that price range? TIA

DH has a titanium Ecodrive Citizen watch he's been very happy with it. The titanium doesn't scratch as easily and it's much lighter (yet stronger) than other metals. The ecodrive is nice as you don't have to wind it and you don't have to mess with replacing a battery.

This one is very classic, could be worn dressed down or dressed up.

http://www.citizenwatch.com/COA/E...54A&page=1

If you prefer a leather band, this one is nice.

http://www.citizenwatch.com/COA/E...05E&page=1

If you want one with more features this one is nice as the chronograph (etc.) blend in more with the watch face, so it doesn't look as cluttered as most do.

http://www.citizenwatch.com/COA/E...56E&page=2

Be sure to check the discount sites - $500 will go WAY further here:

http://www.overstock.com
http://www.ashford.com

I would look at a entry level Movado, if you are near a Movado outlet,otherwise Ashford is reputable and has decent prices.

regardless of brand, i would recommend that you make sure your new watch has a Sapphire crystal, as they are less prone to scratching. nothing messes up a nice watch more than scratches on the watchface...

citizen's are nice daily watch, you can also look at hamilton watches (also very nice, see the Jazzmaster that was posted in hot deals a couple days ago).