The Best Tool Watches for Every Price Range in 2024

It doesn't matter the size of your wallet, you can still find a great tool watch that suits your needs. There are many options out there for each budget in the new year.  Let's take a look at a few of them.  

What does the phrase "tool watch" signify? Historically, wristwatches were regarded as tools since they were the only convenient, portable way to tell the time before the invention of cell phones. Nowadays, though, when watches are often used for aesthetic reasons, it is necessary to redefine certain timepieces as "tool watches." These are the watches that are supposedly used for a specific purpose such as diving, flying, exploration, etc.

The Present Tool Watch

This present tool watch is something that is worth taking a closer look at today. It has many features that are beneficial to those who need an effective way to keep track of time. It has a variety of features, such as a stopwatch. It is also highly accurate and reliable, making it a great choice for precision timekeeping. It is made from durable materials and is designed to last for years. The tool watch today is a great investment for those who need a reliable way to keep track of time.

A few years ago, it was mainly journalists who were familiar with the idea of the "tool watch". At present, watch companies have started to use the term, probably recognizing its potential to attract men who work in offices, but dream of being like James Bond and going on adventures, and want to do so through the items they own. ( Of course, there is nothing wrong with that.)

At every expense range, the optimal watches for travel are available. When it comes to selecting the right watch for a journey, there are many considerations to make. From the type of materials used to the features included, it can be tricky to figure out which is the best travel watch. To help you out, we've rounded up some of the top choices that are ideal for globetrotters. These watches are not only stylish but also reliable and could be the perfect companion for your next excursion.

The term "tool watch" is non-judgmental, simply referring to a wristwatch created with a certain purpose in mind. However, let us not be deceived by the advertising tactics of either the watch companies or the media; the fact is that mechanical wristwatches are mostly outdated technology. Although we still fancy them and present them to you, the reader, it is possible to enjoy wearing wristwatches without feeling guilty.

It is our belief that a traditional, non-digital kit does have a role to fulfill in our lives, as it is more reliable in certain scenarios since it does not need to be serviced or recharged as often.

Types of Tool Watches

There are various categories of tool watches that exist for a variety of purposes. Such watches have been designed to provide assistance in specific activities or tasks. Common types of tool watches include diving watches, pilot watches, military watches, and chronographs. Diving watches are typically waterproof and feature a rotating bezel to help track elapsed time. Aviation watches are designed for pilots and feature a slide rule bezel, enabling them to make quick calculations. Military watches often include features such as luminous hands and markers, making them easier to read in the dark. Chronographs are designed to measure and record short intervals of time.

 Different types of tool watches exist. To list a few, their utilization can involve: 

A Dive Watch is a timepiece that allows for divers to measure how long they stay underwater and monitor their decompression stops while SCUBA diving. This is usually done with the help of a rotating bezel on a regular watch.

The chronograph is beneficial for timing events, such as laps, intervals, or production cycles. Utilizing a set of pushers on the watch's side, the chronograph can be triggered, and the time read on the sub-dials on the main dial. These watches are a great option for individuals who need to measure events lasting between 30 minutes and 12 hours.

World Timer/GMT: To keep track of multiple time zones, these watches are ideal for those who need to keep track of someone in a different country or those who travel frequently. The time zones can be monitored either by the fourth "GMT" hand and 24-hour scale, or by a rotating bezel.

Field Watch: Designed for precise timekeeping in challenging circumstances -- often in the open air, through inclement weather, and even during rough handling. These watches have a traditional "military" style, with a basic time-only display and a waterproof exterior. They were also commonly used for exploratory and scientific journeys.

5 Tool Watches to Buy 

The Submariner by Rolex

Since its debut in 1953 along with the Fifty Fathoms and Sea Wolf of Blancpain and Zodiac respectively, the "Sub" has successfully stood the test of time and has become a widely recognized wristwatch all around the world. Its robustness, ease of readability and attractive design have made it a favorite among individuals of all professions, right from military personnel to bankers and lawyers. Although it is now worn more by people who do their work from a desk than actual divers, this does not reduce the value of the Sub as a specialized tool.

• Style: Dive
• Measurement: 41mm
• Mechanism: Rolex Calibre 3230 automatic
• Waterproofing: 300m
• Cost: 9K +

The Omega Speedmaster

The Speedmaster is a watch created by Omega and renowned for its precision and accuracy. It is widely regarded as one of the most reliable and dependable timepieces ever made. It has been used by many top athletes, astronauts, and other professionals who need to rely on their watch to keep time accurately. It is also a popular choice for collectors due to its classic design and performance.

The famous Apollo 13 incident was saved by Jim Lovell's accurate timing of the thruster burn. For years, the Speedy watch had been used by NASA astronauts and even accompanied Buzz Aldrin on his moonwalk. It has now been improved with the Omega Calibre 3861 movement and is a dependable hand-wound chronograph that can time anything, even if a phone is more accurate. It will keep going as long as there is enough energy to wind the crown.

• This Chronograph has a diameter of 42mm
• The movement is that of the Omega Calibre 3861 hand-wound
• It has water resistance up to 50m
• The price is $3K +

The Tudor Pelagos 39

The Pelagos collection was first released in 2012 and fans were eager for a smaller version. In 2022, their wish was granted with the 39mm version. This titanium-cased watch has an in-house, COSC-certified movement, a professional-looking dial, a great bracelet, and more. While the 42mm model has features like a helium escape valve and an automatic bracelet adjustment system, the 39mm model is more versatile.

• Style: Dive
• Dimensions: 39mm
• Caliber: Tudor MT5400 automatic
• Waterproof: 200m
• Cost: North of 4K

Navigator of Marathons

U.S. Air Force personnel at Kelly Base asked Canadian watch-makers Marathon to create a wristwatch that could withstand high altitudes for pilots and parachutists. The result was a straightforward, cost-effective watch with a 12-hour bezel and encased in resin. This quartz-powered design has held up for years and can still be found on the market. It is available in various colors and dials, and it is one of the rare military watches that remains affordable despite the current trend.

• This watch is designed with a field/pilot style and has a diameter of 41 millimeters.
• It has a ETA High-Torque F06 quartz movement.
• It is water resistant to a depth of 60 meters.
• Cost: Approximately $500

La Touraine Cartographer

This mens designer watch that can keep up with your busy lifestyle

The Cartographer is known as “the chronograph that knows no bounds”

This timepiece by MicroBrand star La Touraine is an affordable tachymeter watch for the professionals and adventurers alike. Anyone who wants a stylish and reliable chronograph that can withstand the rigors of the job is a great prospect to own this unique chronograph. 

Whether you're flying a luxury jet or heading to the store, the Cartographer is the perfect watch for you.

Cartographer Specifications