The Best Cheap Skeleton Watches That Are Surprisingly Well Built

Fortunately, there are plenty of good watches available for just under a few hundred bucks, including models from both microbrands and legacy brands.

22:42 14 February 2025

Fortunately, there are plenty of good watches available for just under a few hundred bucks, including models from both microbrands and legacy brands. If you are looking for a skeletonized dial watch which promises a good movement and reliable quality, you should know that the higher in price you go, the more openworked options there are. The good news is you can find a solid skeleton watch for just under a few hundred bucks. In this article we’ll present to you our top 10 affordable skeleton watches that are well-built.

Bulova Sutton

If you are looking for a good quality watch brand that provides affordable skeleton dial pieces, Bulova is a great pick. The Sutton is a particularly lovely choice that we find intriguing. A modern yet timeless design that has a mesmerizing openwork design with some very delicate flourishes. The small circles on the dial for example or the perlage pattern on the outer dial near the indexes. If you’re looking for a solid skeleton watch that promises durability, you should consider this piece.

Price: $264

Tufina St. Petersburg 

An automatic watch with Incabloc shock protection system. Durable and gorgeous, this tonneau case and openworked dial is an excellent affordable skeleton watch that gives off a luxury vibe. St. Petersburg provides its own authentic twist of the tonneau watch, delivering a mesmerizing skeletonized dial complemented by different color accents. The two-tone skeleton hands add a pop of color, drawing the eyes to the moving gears inside the case. A true representation of the art of skeletonization. 

Price: $399

Swatch Clearly Striped Black

A quartz movement combined with a skeletonized dial. Swatch offers another option which is not commonly seen and yet very practical. Clearly Striped Black, a model that presents a utilitarian look. The transparent plastic case, the silicon strap and the red/blue/yellow hands create a modern aesthetic. Pair this skeleton watch with your trendy outfits or something more eye-catching for a special night out. No matter the case, the Clearly Striped Black is definitely worth the money.

Price: $95

Seiko 5 SKX Series SRPJ45K1

One of the watches from the Seiko Series that caught our attention was the SKX SRPJ45 model. Not a skeleton watch in the conventional sense, this piece allows you to see the gears of the movement. Moreover, the translucent turquoise dial displays the entirety of the day-date disk beyond the aperture. The dive bezel is one of the strongest points of this piece. It ensures 100m of water resistance and a reliable automatic movement with a 41 hours power reserve. 

Price: $335 

Orient Classic RA-AR0009L10B

The Orient Classic is probably not your typical skeleton watch, however, it’s one of our most interesting finds. Instead of an entire open dial displaying the watch’s movement, the Classic has an open heart design, with only the balance wheel on display. This model comes in multiple different color palettes, however, we think the blue option is one of the most eye-catching versions. 

Price: $405

Tufina San Francisco

Now, if you’re looking for a more unique skeleton piece, consider San Francisco. We can safely say it is one of a kind. Inspired by the architectural elements of the Golden Gate Bridge, this full skeleton watch offers a see-through composition that creates an authentic elegant aesthetic. Stick skeleton hands are used to maintain the same theme, while the large Roman numerals ensure legibility. An intriguing model that we believe can also work exceptionally well as a dress watch.

Price: $449

Stührling Special Reserve 3921

An open work dial with a dual-time function. This skeleton watch with a sun and moon phase complication is one of the most affordable options with such features. The Special Reserve 3921 offers a classic and traditional look that works well in all occasions. The second time zone is especially useful for those who like to travel a lot. It’s a slightly large piece which is understandable considering the complication it houses. 

Price: $485

Fossil Everett

If you appreciate the design of the famous Audemars Piguet Royal Oak but you’re looking for something budget-friendly, the Fossil Everett is a great alternative. This model has a tapered bracelet that reminds you of the Royal Oak, however, Fossil gave it its own original touch. The smoked stainless steel bracelet is quite unique which makes it seem like titanium. A modern and easily stylish timepiece.

Price: $270 

Swatch Sistem Through Again

If you are looking for a special skeleton piece that resembles iconic timepieces, the MoonSwatch may be one of the best options from this innovative brand. However, we recommend the Sistem51 automatic watch, which features 51 pieces anchored to a single central screw. This model features 51 parts anchored to a single central screw, and its fully automated movement production is impressive. However, the downside is that the movement is completely sealed, meaning it can't be serviced.

Price: $250

Seagull Honor of Kings Master V

Last on this list, we have the Seagull Honor of Kinds Master V. The rose detailing on the black case is what first drew our attention to this piece. The black and gold pattern continues on the skeletonized dial making the whole look very cohesive. You can also change the bracelet with an integrated rubber strap for a more sporty look.

Price: $389