In T’s column 1 Piece, 10 Budgets, we share 10 perfect versions of an item in a range of prices. Typically lighter and sportier than leather- or steel-bracelet models, rubber-strap watches are an ideal match for the warmer months, especially when they come in vibrant candylike colors. Here are the T fashion assistant Jameson Montgomery’s favorites.
1. Swatch, $195
The Swiss brand Swatch has been making relatively affordable, brightly hued watches since the 1980s. This model’s vivid green dial is a generous 47 millimeters wide for optimal legibility.
2. Timex, $229
The dial of Timex’s Deepwater Reef 200 is embossed with a subtle wave pattern, nodding to the fact that the watch is water-resistant up to 200 meters.
3. Tissot, $595
The displays on Tissot’s T-Race Quartz Chronograph were inspired by those found on motorcycles. Its hour and minute hands are coated in SuperLuminova, a phosphorescent, nonradioactive pigment that glows in the dark.
4. Movado, $695
The Bold TR90, by the Swiss American watchmaker Movado, is named after the strong, lightweight nylon compound (TR90) used to make its case. Its matching bright red dial and silicone strap make it an instantly noticeable accent.
5. Hamilton, $895
The Khaki Navy Scuba is water-resistant up to 100 meters and comes with a timer function, making it perfect for lap swimmers and beach runners.
6. TAG Heuer, $2,050
Like many of TAG Heuer’s watches, the Formula 1 Chronograph has displays that resemble those on the dashboard of a racecar. It’s offered with straps in a few bright shades, but none is as striking as this vibrant green.
7. Rado, $2,600
As its name suggests, the True Square Automatic Skeleton features a skeletonized movement — one that’s visible to its wearer through a transparent dial — which is rare for a watch on a rubber strap.
8. Bell & Ross, $5,000
This version of the French company Bell & Ross’s BR-05 GMT watch has a sky blue sun ray dial that strikes a playful note along with its grooved rubber strap.
9. Hublot, $6,200
The Swiss watchmaker Hublot uses the highest grade of titanium in its 33-millimeter Classic Fusion. Prized by the aeronautics industry for its lightness and durability, the metal has a natural bluish tone that complements this watch’s strap and dial.
10. Hermès, $6,650
Customers of the French fashion house Hermès are easy to spot, thanks to the brand’s signature orange shopping bags. This version of the company’s H08 watch features the shade on its textured rubber strap and second hand, which pop against the black nickel-treated dial.
Jameson Montgomery is a fashion assistant at T Magazine.
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