There’s a longstanding belief that watches under £200 are sub-par. It’s simply not true. While Swiss timepieces boast painstaking craftsmanship – and with it, painful price tags – affordable tickers shouldn’t be discounted, especially when it comes to function.

“Many watches under £200 may not boast the Swiss made stamp, but they’re by no means a lesser choice,” says Erica Redgrave, a buyer at The Watch Gallery. “Many watches at this price bracket are powered by a quartz movement – one that uses an electronic oscillator to give a very precise reading that’s usually more accurate than an automatic or self-winding.”

It isn’t just the inner workings to consider, either. “Regardless of price, a good watch should clinch the cost-per-wear ratio. That means the ability to match with as many different outfits or occasions as possible.”

Which, unsurprisingly, means a minimalist focus. “Opt for uncluttered dials and simple straps, be it leather or a relatively classic bracelet in one of two tones – gold or silver. Unless you’ve got cash to burn, avoid bright colours and statement touches that won’t match as much in your wardrobe.”

Redgrave says that the best way to find a perfect watch for under £200 is to highlight the instances in which you’ll need it. “If you find yourself in daily meetings and enjoy a relatively polished personal style, stick to classic black leather and white dial combination. However, those working in smart-casual or creative offices have more room to experiment.”

With that knowledge on the wrist, clock our favourite watches are under £200 below.

MVMT White Caramel Watch

College dropouts turned watchmaking dons, MVMT is an LA-based brand that sticks two fingers up to tradition. Classic watches are given a modernist makeover, with well-made chronographs sitting beneath dials worthy of the Geffen Contemporary itself.