There are certain universal truths — let’s call them commandments — that quality timepieces must adhere to…
Thou shalt be Swiss-made
Thou shalt cost an arm and a leg
Thou shalt have a high barrier to entry
Sometimes, sure. There’s nothing wrong with a well-deserved splurge from time to time.
But that’s not what we’re here to talk about today. Today, we’re here to unpack an entry-level line of watches cleverly disguised as luxury timepieces. Enter: Stauer watches.
The brand was founded in 2001 by Michael Bisceglia, who decided he was tired of overpaying for his wife’s jewelry and took matters into his own hands. By creating luxury products without the luxury price tag. The brand has since garnered a wide fan base of discerning consumers who prefer their quality engineering and elevated designs without the bloated prices.
Stauer Watches Overview
Though Stauer watches run the gamut in terms of style, functionality, and general vibe, certain elements are applicable to most models.
Design
It’s clear that a great deal of thought goes into the design of each Stauer watch. There’s a time and place for each one, and no aesthetic effort was spared making sure that what’s on your wrist matches the activity or occasion.
Watch Construction
Stauer’s price point has the potential to back it into a tricky corner when it comes to materials and general durability. But by eliminating wholesalers and not shelling out for flashy marketing campaigns, for instance, the company is able to parlay those savings into some unexpectedly quality materials.
Movements
Precise, accurate, and varied. While many Stauer models use quartz or automatic movements, you’ll also find manual pieces and even a smartwatch in their range.
Price
Let’s keep the affordability throughline going, shall we? One of the main draws of Stauer’s formidable line is how affordable the watches are. Its designs, movements, and construction are respected in the industry and among watch aficionados — thankfully, respect and a luxury price tag aren’t synonymous here.
Stauer Watch Reviews
Our pick of the Stauer litter? Right, this way…
Stauer Evergreen Diver Watch
Shoes have had their day in the sun — these days, the watch makes the man. And if the man wants to stand out in a crowd in all the right ways, he wears this emerald beauty that’s as structurally badass as it is eye-catching.
The inspiration behind Stauer’s Evergreen diver was born at Baselworld, an annual event in Switzerland where jewelers and watchmakers gather to share new designs. There, an aesthetically similar watch was on display with an inaccessible-to-many price tag, and the rest is history.
Almost. Stauer brought this inspiration back home to America and produced this handsome piece with precision movement and a stainless steel case that’s water-resistant to 660 feet. While its sturdy construction and ability to take an underwater punch makes it ideal for serious divers, it wouldn’t feel out of place at after-work cocktails or peeking out from a cuff during wedding season.
Pros
- Stainless steel construction
- Water-resistant to 660 feet
- Form and function
- Standout design
Cons
- The lightweight strap feels less-than
Stauer 1930 Dashtronic Watch
This 1930’s-inspired timepiece drips confidence and personality. Instead of using hands, it utilizes a “jumping mechanism” to display the time through a window on the top third of the watch face. While its vintage style isn’t for everyone, it’s unique enough to have you fielding questions from intrigued first dates or curious strangers in the produce section.
Band-wise, you’re working with black leather. While not universal and not everyone’s cup of tea, it’s an easy enough tweak to switch it out. And though Stauer touts water resistance of up to 99-feet, some reviewers complain of water breaches even in light rain.
Pros
- Versatile, standout design
- 21-jewel automatic movement
- Sturdy stainless steel case
Cons
- Some negative reviews cite accuracy issues and poor water resistance
Stauer X-Ray Automatic Men’s Watch
The X-Ray Automatic is Stauer’s first skeleton watch, and it doesn’t disappoint. The timepiece’s transparent watch face lets you take a peek under the hood at its 22-jewel movement, balance wheel, and other parts that keep this beauty ticking.
This type of watch typically fetches at least four figures, but Stauer has once again managed to keep the price point in check.
Pros
- Inexpensive for a skeleton watch
- Sun and moon display
- Striking design
- Crocodile-embossed leather band
Cons
- Steep learning curve for an entry-level watch
Stauer Gold Finished Graves ‘33 Wristwatch
7 hands, 27 jewels, and a backstory from 1933. If anything, this watch keeps it interesting. It’s a replica of the impossibly intricate timepiece that was created for millionaire Henry Graves in 1933. The original is considered the crown jewel of the wristwatch world and has recently sold at auction for upwards of $24 million.
Here, Stauer recreates the original with a whopping 210 individual parts and a 27-jewel movement. The result is a handsome homage to the OG king of the luxury watch world.
Pros
- Respectable replica of a legendary watch
- Complicated automatic movement at an entry-level price
- 7 hands offer multiple functions
Cons
- Vintage design lacks versatility
StauerSmart Executive
How dare we put a smartwatch on this list? Fair enough, especially when Stauer is merely dipping its toe in a very niche, very technical market.
But if you’re looking to track more basic fitness goals like steps, calories burned, or heart rate, consider this a solid entry-level candidate. Not to mention the fact that it puts other smartwatches to shame in the handsomeness department.
Pros
- Looks great for a smartwatch
- Reliable and accurate tracking of basic metrics
- Interchangeable strap for different occasions
Cons
- Pricey for the minimal functions it offers
- Lacks features suitable for avid athletes
Final Verdict: Are Stauer Watches Worth It?
Stauer offers a dizzying selection of timepieces, each with its own unique style, function, and story. If you’re looking for an entry-level watch that looks and feels like anything but, they’re going to be worth a look.
That said, watch aficionados will likely want to move on. Though they’re made with care and precision, Stauer’s price point won’t allow for the finest materials or construction compared to true luxury watches.
FAQs About Stauer Watches
Where are Stauer watches made?
As you’ve likely gathered based on their low cost, most models are assembled in China with original Swiss parts.
Are Stauer Watches Good?
Though certainly not for avid collectors, these watches are made of respectable materials and feature complex movements and features. If you’re looking for some entry-level wrist candy without digging anywhere near the bottom of the barrel, Stauer is a solid bet.