Watchlist: under £300

If you want a watch that will put up with any abuse and still tell the time at the end, the best answer is a G-Shock. In a variety of styles, digital and analogue, with ‘Baby’ versions to suit smaller wrists. Full-size prices start under £100. Shockproof and water resistant to 200m. 

g-shock.co.uk

When the Swatch came out in the Eighties it changed how things were done, saving the Swiss watch market as it went. Very much of its day, the Swatch is still here decades later, doing what it does better than anyone else. Quartz movement, water resistant to 30m.

swatch.com

Not a heavy hitter in the badge snobbery stakes, but Timex has a lot going for it. Pioneering American brand founded in mid-19th century, now makes some of the best value watches. With 41mm case, chunky leather strap and water resistant to 100m.

timex.co.uk

The Seiko family of brands has everything from entry level to super posh. The Seiko 5 line offers high quality for not much money, and they look pretty cool, too. In-house automatic movement in 40mm stainless steel case, water resistant to 100m. 

seikoboutique.co.uk

A brand that wears its military influences proudly and has collaborated with the British Legion and Help for Heroes. This watch is part of a collection paying tribute to the P-51 Mustang fighter plane. Automatic movement in 43mm stainless steel case, water resistant to 50m. 

avi-8.co.uk

Bulova is best known for the battery-powered Accutron watch that changed the accuracy game in the Sixties. Also does a nice line in automatics. This Aerojet has a vintage-inspired 41mm stainless steel case and the movement is visible through an exhibition caseback.

uk.bulova.com