Top Summer Watches for 2023: Budget-Friendly Picks for Every Style
With summer fast approaching, it’s time to explore our series on summer watches! I’m excited to share my personal favorites, which are lighthearted, colorful, and perfect for the warm months ahead. Why the cheerful selection? Well, I have a big summer ahead, welcoming our second child in July! While our fearless leader, RJ, is busy expanding his family with a new barbecue, I’m gearing up for those sweet parenting days. We’re certainly in different life stages!
As I prepare to take some time off to focus on family, I’m looking forward to sunny days by the Dutch coast with my wife, our son, and the new baby. Of course, I’ll need some stylish watches to keep track of my own naps (not the baby’s!) and feeding intervals (again, mine). Here are my top five watch picks for various budgets in 2023.
Best Summer Watch Under €1k: RZE UTD-8000-NB
Let’s kick things off with my favorite summer watch under €1k: the RZE UTD-8000-NB. This beauty, priced at just €290, offers fantastic value for your money! Its vibrant blue digital design perfectly encapsulates summer vibes.
The UltraHex titanium construction gives it an edge—it’s lightweight and remarkably resistant to scratches. With a case that measures 43mm across, 49.5mm in length, and 13.4mm thick, it wears comfortably and doesn’t feel bulky. Plus, the washable fabric strap is perfect for those chaotic first months of parenting.
Best Summer Watch Under €2.5k: Nomos Club Campus 38 Electric Green
Next up, for those looking for something a bit more sophisticated, the Nomos Club Campus 38 Electric Green is my pick for the best summer watch under €2.5k. This watch is perfect for summer evenings out, priced at €1,560.
Its hand-wound caliber DUW4101 ensures that this watch remains slim at just 8.5mm, while also bringing an impressive 100m of water resistance. Plus, the eye-catching electric green dial is sure to turn heads!
Best Summer Watch Under €5k: Doxa Sub 300 Carbon Divingstar
If you’re willing to spend under €5k, my top choice is the Doxa Sub 300 Carbon Divingstar. Priced at €4,190, this watch keeps popping up on my wishlist!
This 2021 release features a 42.5mm cushion case crafted from forged carbon—light and durable. The bright yellow dial adds a fun, summery touch. It’s comfortable and suitable for your summer beach adventures!
Best Summer Watch Under €10k: Zenith Defy Revival A3648
Moving up in the budget range, the Zenith Defy Revival A3648 takes the crown for the best summer watch under €10k. Priced at €8,400, this dive watch radiates ’70s flair, drawing you in with its unique design.
With a water resistance of 600m and powered by the Zenith Elite caliber, this watch is as functional as it is stylish. Its lively design is sure to brighten up your summer wardrobe!
My Dream Summer Watch: Hublot Big Bang Unico Mint Green Ceramic
For those with an unlimited budget, let’s talk about my dream watch: the Hublot Big Bang Unico Mint Green Ceramic. Priced at €25,900, this bold timepiece is a showstopper on any wrist.
This watch stands out with its bold design, showcasing a vibrant mint green color. Whether you love or loathe Hublot, there’s no denying this piece’s appeal. It balances being playful with showcasing advanced craftsmanship.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it—my selection for the best summer watches across five different budgets. Each of these cheerful timepieces will keep me content until fall. Now I just need to find matching swim trunks and flip-flops in colors like yellow, orange, blue, and electric green!
As I prepare for the exciting summer ahead, I hope to squeeze in a few more articles for Fratello. If my output suddenly decreases, you’ll know where I am! Here’s wishing you all a fabulous summer ahead—we’ll reconnect in winter!
What are your top picks for summer watches at these price points? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
P.S. The beach images you see were generated with AI, ensuring no watches were harmed in the making of this article.




