Leaving only basic skeleton frames, the skeleton watch design is considered one of the most unique world-class designs.
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Every moment that the watch records, it will be shown right in front of your eyes, along with the gentle mechanical movements.
And if you’re still searching for the best skeleton watches that can fit well with your current budget, then you’ve come to the right place!
In this guide, I will show you some of my favorite skeleton watches that can be really great suggestions for you.
Do let me know which model would you pick up.
Now, let’s dive right in.
| AT A GLANCE: MY TOP 9 PICKS FOR THE BEST SKELETON WATCHES |
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The most high-end and expensive watch brands Top-rated Swiss watch brands you should know about The ultimate list of vintage watchmakers American-made watchmakers that people love.
Do Skeleton Watches Have Mechanical Advantages?
In fact, they don’t.
When you choose to wear a skeleton watch, you really pay attention to style rather than other features.
If there are two mechanical watches with the same amount of decorative gems, Swiss movements, sapphire dials, then they will not be mechanically different.
However, some famous brands will make a small difference in depth of diving, materials, or case thickness.
Top-Rated Skeleton Watches – Quick Comparison
1. Invicta Men’s 1090 Russian Diver Watch – Best Under $200
Coming next is the Invicta 1090, the best skeleton watches under $200. What can you expect from this model?
The Invicta 1090 watch is exquisitely crafted at modest prices. This watch requires a mechanical movement to power the watch. This watch has a large 52mm face, so it is not suitable for people with small wrists.
On the contrary, it is the perfect choice for those who want to use the watch as a glossy accessory and want to stand out from the crowd.
Other great features include a stainless steel case and frame, a screw-down crown, and a strap made of stainless steel and polyurethane. All make a durable and sturdy product for you.
Like many watches on the market, Invicta also equips with water resistance up to 50m for this model. As such, you can use it for short periods of leisure swimming, but not for diving or snorkeling.
Pros:
- Attractive looking
- Elegant color
- Well-built and durable
- Big case
Cons:
- The rubber band is hard.
2. Bulova Men’s Brown 96A120 BVA Series – Best Under $300
Our list of best products continues to bring you the Bulova 96A120. We chose it as one of the best Skeleton watches under $300.
Let’s talk about its outstanding features.
You will own the excellent build quality through its 42mm diameter of the bezel, which perfectly fits the relatively narrow wrist.
Also, the thickness of the case is 11mm, which is not too big on your wrist. Besides, the strap is made of genuine leather and is 22mm wide, ideal for watches of this size.
Here’s something fantastic for you.
The dial of the knob is vast, sensitive and has an excellent grip even with sweaty or damp fingers. Coupled with that, the watch is resistant to rain and splashes, but you do not use it when bathing or diving.
You will love the design of the dial and the Roman dial on the brown face. The self-winding mechanical watch with 21 jewels in motion is visible through a double on-dial aperture and exhibition case-back.
Not to mention, the neutral color of this watch can match with suits, formal or casual clothes.
Pros:
- Gorgeous design
- Good build
- Responsive knob dials
Cons:
- The watch glass may show scratches after six months.
3. Stührling Original Men’s Watch 371 Series – Best Under $500 With an Incredible Design
You soon reach our best Skeleton watches under $500.
It is the Stührling 371.01 men’s watch.
The highlight of this watch is its elegant and eye-catching look. The model also offers an onion-style crown and Dauphine-style hands.
How about the skeletonized design?
You will love the skeleton style that allows you to see your watch ticking time visually. Stührling 371.01 is a 47mm watch with stainless steel case, silver dial, hour markers, and blue hour markers. The 24mm alligator strap makes you comfortable to wear every day.
A point worth buying is the dual time that can be useful for travelers. You have a second-time zone partition and time indicator. Additionally, you quickly use it thanks to automatic mechanism technology and your natural movement to self-wind.
Pros:
- Eye-catching design
- Great quality
- Incredible craftsmanship
- Nice big face
Cons:
- The winding function may become loose.
4. Hamilton Jazzmaster Viewmatic Automatic Skeleton H42555751 – Best Under $1,000
Topping our list is the top Skeleton watches under $1,000. Let’s explore the Hamilton H42555751.
The watch is a combination of elegance and classic in every detail, and it embodies discovery and creativity. Besides, it runs automatically, winding without batteries, ensuring convenience for users.
What’s more?
The famous Swiss-brand machine is designed very sophisticatedly and intricately. It gives the product very high accuracy and durability.
The H42555751 possesses a case made of stainless steel with outstanding strength, excellent corrosion resistance, and low color deformation.
Not only that, Hamilton is equipped with reflective sapphire glass and is scratch-proof and entirely waterproof. You also have soft and supple leather straps perfect for anyone with sensitive wrists.
Overall, this model has an elegant and desirable style in watches under the Hamilton brand.
The product looks like a great work with classic beauty, tradition blending with modernity and sophistication in each line to make customers feel loved for the first time.
Pros:
- Water-resistant
- Nice design
- Durable and compact
- Easy to use
Cons:
- This watch doesn’t come with a nato strap.
5. Tissot Men’s T0704051641100 T-Complication Squelette – Best Under $2,000
Not only is it excellent waterproof, but this product is also the best Skeleton watches under $2000. Take a closer look at the Tissot T0704051641100 right now.
Tissot top brand gives you a sleek, modern combination with meticulous craftsmanship in a Skeleton watch. The movement of the manual mechanical skeleton is visible through the dial, giving you the pleasure when using.
This luxurious watch has a stainless steel case with a diameter of 48mm. No matter what you wear, you can match clothes with the black leather strap of this watch.
The highlight of the product is water-resistant to 50m. As such, you can use it for leisure swimming, but not diving or snorkeling.
Pros:
- Beautiful looking
- Well-made and durable
- Scratch-resistant
Cons:
- The case is quite large
6. TAG Heuer Carrera Automatic CAR2A1Z.FT6044 – Best Under $5,000
If you want to buy a beautiful watch, come to see the TAG Heuer CAR2A1Z.FT6044. It is one of the best skeleton watches under $5,000.
How good is it?
TAG Heuer makes this watch with a stainless steel case, showing their attention to detail and yearning for greatness. You can wear this fantastic mechanical watch to your wrist through a black rubber strap.
With the big 45mm case, it is easy to read the black-framed dial and three utility subdials. Moreover, the black ceramic bezel with a gray tachymeter scale gives the model a sporty feel.
You can also see through the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal on luminescent hands and hour markers. This model also comes with 330ft water resistance. It means that you don’t have to take it off for a quick dip in the pool or when it rains.
And the best part?
You can use this watch easily thanks to the automatic winding mechanism, with a power reserve of 50 hours and a stopwatch operating for 40 hours.
All in all, the solid construction and the beautiful design adds to the beauty of your daily outfit.
Pros:
- Perfect color
- Stylist and sturdy
- Simple to adjust
Cons:
- The watch will stop after a while if it sits still for too long.
7. Zenith Men’s Defy El Primero Titanium Watch – Best Under $10,000
If you are looking for something masculine and elegant, this model is something to consider.
Zenith 49.9000.9004/78.R582 beats at 50Hz or 360,000 vibrations per hour, making it accurate to 100 seconds. So, the movement is undoubtedly a remarkable sight.
Not only that, the skeletonized version highlights the impressive El Primero, especially with the open working dial with two different colored counters.
This model has excellent and advanced inner workings, and it is also sturdy and confident in appearance. With a 44mm diameter and elegant gray rubber strap, it is a big watch, and you can feel bulky on your wrist.
Beyond that, it features 10 ATM waterproof and has a minimum power reserve of 50 hours. As a result, you can use it very comfortably even in the rain or in most snorkeling activities.
Pros:
- Water-resistant
- Excellent design
- Great quality
Cons:
- High price
8. Audemars Piguet Millenary 15350ST.OO.D002CR.01
It is another excellent choice for you with the highest quality.
Audemars Piguet Millenary offers you a unique and exciting design. This watch combines exquisite aesthetics with complete functionality in watchmaking.
The luxury of the product also comes from the all-new black alligator strap and sturdy stainless steel deployment buckle.
Not only that, the product has a three-dimensional appearance that shows the inner parts of a 47mm, 18-karat rose gold case. It also has a silver watch face with eccentric discs.
Other noble features are the simple-to-use self-winding motion and the easy-to-read second screen. Furthermore, this watch can work longer with a 60-hour power reserve.
It can be said that this is the ideal Skeleton watch for stylish gentlemen.
Pros:
- Great quality
- High performance
- Unique design
Cons:
- Quite expensive
9. Hamilton Men’s Open Heart Watch #H32565555 – Affordable Luxury
When it comes to the mechanical watch, you can count on the Hamilton brand. We want to introduce you to one of the most affordable skeleton watches of all, the Hamilton H32565555.
This model is a luxurious, elegant, and versatile watch. More specifically, it has a stainless steel casing, a glowing screen, a skeleton back and sapphire glass windows.
This watch is famous for the unique design of the beautiful, sophisticated, but simple style. For everyday use, you can wear it with your casual fashion, and it is also suitable for formal occasions.
What else?
The silver dial with gold accents and leather strap is a great combination. Additionally, it has a 40mm case, Swiss automatic movement, 80-hour power reserve, and 50-meter water resistance. Thanks to that, you can use it for a long time.
The striking rose gold color makes this watch stand out, and the cutting design is eye-catching. If all you need is an excellent but affordable timepiece, this is your ideal option.
Pros:
- Easy to read
- Classic design
- Right size
- Nice band
Cons:
- The leather bracelet may get scratched.
10. Orient Star RK-AT0008L – Best Skeleton Watch for Women
Our next model is the best one for women. Here is the Orient Star RK-AT0008L.
Do you want to know more about its great features?
It is a product line of the high-end segment of the brand from Japan with exquisite design, powerful apparatus, and complex functions. Orient Star watches combine sophistication, elegance, and elegance.
Under the Orient Star product line, RK-AT0008L is one of the Orient’s most beloved limited editions. With the revealing structure of the heart and the power meter sub-dial, Orient shows off the in-house mechanical machine manufactured by the company at the 9 o’clock position.
Moreover, this model also looks impressive, thanks to the pink border of the dial and Roman numerals. This Orient Star model is equipped with a powerful movement with a hand-winding function and a power reserve of up to 40 hours.
Last but not least, the RK-AT0008L has anti-reflective sapphire glass, a transparent bottom surface, stainless steel case, and excellent water resistance.
- ORIENT Automatic Movement Caliber F6F44, Made in Japan, 24 Jewels
- Second-hand-halt mechanism (Hacking)
- 50 Hours Power Reserve Indicator
- Sapphire Crystal with Anti-Reflection coating
That’s all for our reviews of the top Skeleton watches. Now you know what makes the best skeleton watches.
If you want to study more about this type of watch, scroll down to see in the next part.
Overview Of Mechanical Skeleton Watches for Men And Women
Mechanical skeleton watches are models that show their movements right on the front.
Users can simultaneously watch the time and see beautiful rhythmic activities that provide control over that time.
To do this, the watch manufacturer gouges the dials in a particular shape with or without glass to cover the holes. From these holes, you can see the movement, which is usually hidden below the dial and only visible through the back cover.
Why are mechanical watches made?
The birth of quartz watches took a massive hit on the world of mechanical watches. Nonetheless, because of that, the status of mechanical watches was more advanced than they used to be.
The mechanical watches were made as a solid affirmation that a precious mechanical movement powers this type of watch, clearly distinguished from the cheaper quartz watches.
Then, how can you select the right Skeleton watch? Check it out here.
How to Choose the Best Skeleton Watches for Your Own Needs and Budget Type
You can find the best skeleton watches when paying attention to the following features:
Automatic vs Mechanical
You have two options, automatic and mechanical. These two types are similar in motion and functions. You need to handle it by hand when using the mechanical type while the other can coil itself.
If you do not use your watch every day or have trouble remembering to adjust a mechanical watch manually, choose the automatic one.
Watch Material
You should choose a stainless steel case material so that the watch can survive for a long time while still maintaining the beauty as new.
Depending on your preference, you choose the appropriate strap materials. The straps also reflect the personality of the users, or you can select based on specific occasions.
Watch Size, Colour, And Design
You need to consider the size that fits your wrist and the accessories you use. The case size also speaks for the owner’s style.
Besides, you can choose your favorite color and design for men and women. Watches also bring the perfect combination when worn with the appropriate fashion outfit.
Watch Movement
With automatic wind movement, you do less maintenance for your watch. However, watches today become indispensable jewelry for consumers so that you can choose depending on your preferences.
Water-Resistant Feature
It is an essential feature to bring us convenience. You no longer have to worry about your watch being exposed to water, rain, or being forgotten in the bathroom.
Warranty
If you want to use a Skeleton watch for a long time, you need to care about the warranty. Please choose a reliable manufacturer to have a good warranty and customer service when encountering a problem.
FAQ’s
What Is A Skeleton Watch?
A Skeleton watch is designed to show off its internal mechanisms. This watch shows time movements from deep within the machine, through the hollowing out of the metal dial parts. So, the craftsman leaves only the basic skeleton of the product.
Are Skeleton Watches More Fragile Than Other Watches?
No, they aren’t. When you consider the key features of different types of watches, the skeleton watches have the same durability. This type of watch works in the same way as other types, and they are also made from the same thickness and materials for case and dial window.
With a unique design, the production of Skeleton watch will take more effort and make their prices higher. They just have no dial back, but this doesn’t provide any significant power to help the watch work.
What Is The Main Advantage Of Owning A Skeleton Watch Over A Traditional Automatic Watch?
If you’re using a quartz movement, automatic, or a product that doesn’t need a lithium-ion battery, you can always assume it’s mechanical when something goes wrong with your watch. Looking at your watch’s running movement helps you keep track of cleanliness.
Even in a waterproof watch, you can watch moisture coming in through different areas, creating accumulation and problems for your watch. Issues are shown to help you find out what is wrong and prepare for a better repair.
If I Can Only See Part Of The Gears, Is It Still A Skeleton Watch?
Yes, it is. There are many models of Skeleton watches that do not expose the whole machine operation. Therefore, they bring a particular mystery and attraction when not showing off everything to customers.
How Accurate Are Skeleton Watches?
Accuracy of Skeleton watches depends on several variables such as:
Location
The clock will increase or take longer if placed in a single position. You should adjust the balance wheel to compensate for losses and profits in different positions. An adjustable watch will run well all day. If you do not wear the watch at night, you should find the optimal position that will compensate for the drift.
Temperature
Ambient temperature affects the watch accuracy because its changes may extend or shrink many parts, especially balancing wheels and filament. Nowadays, most materials and designs of watches can compensate for changes and maintain proper proportions.
It is essential to understand that a new watch may need a break of one month or longer. It allows the watch to find its rhythm and distribute the lubricant evenly.
Skeleton Watch Video
If your budget doesn’t restrain your options, here are 10 excellent luxury skeleton watches:
Which One Would You Choose?
It’s hard to find the best Skeleton watches under $100 or $150.
So, you should pay more for the models we recommend in our post to have durable and accurate Skeleton watches.
There are many things to keep in mind when choosing to buy this product, including movement, size, material, style, water resistance, and warranty. You also need to know your interests and budget before choosing the right product.
We also have the best option for your reference. The Hamilton H42555751 is durable, classy, accurate, and comfortable to wear.
Further reading:
How to maintain a mechanical watch
