How to tell the difference between a high-priced and a low-priced quartz watch: Wanchenstarsky Brand Guide

Quartz watches are popular for their accuracy, affordability, and ease of maintenance. However, when shopping for a quartz watch, you’ll find a huge range of prices, from affordable models to luxury watches. What makes some quartz watches more expensive than others? In this guide, we’ll explore the key factors that distinguish high-priced and low-priced quartz watches, and introduce you to Wanchenstarsky, a brand that combines quality and value.

1.Movement Quality

The quartz movement is the heart of a quartz watch, and its quality directly affects the price.
Low-Priced Quartz Watches: Typically use mass-produced basic movements (usually from generic manufacturers). These movements may have simpler components, less accurate timekeeping (small deviations over a few months), and a shorter lifespan (3-5 years with normal use).
High-priced quartz watches: Use advanced quartz movements, such as Swiss-made ETA or Japanese Miyota movements. These movements are made of higher-grade materials, have stricter quality control, and are more shock-resistant. They are more accurate (typically within ±10 seconds per month) and can last more than 10 years if properly cared for.

2. Case and band materials

The materials used for the case and band can significantly affect the cost.
Low-priced watches: Often made of plastic, base metals (such as cheaply plated brass), or low-grade stainless steel. Bands may be made of rubber, synthetic leather, or thin fabric, which can easily wear, fade, or cause skin irritation.
High-priced options: Use high-quality materials, such as 316L stainless steel (corrosion and scratch-resistant), titanium (lightweight and hypoallergenic), or even precious metals (gold and platinum for luxury brands). Straps are available in genuine leather (calf, alligator), premium silicone, or metal bracelets with sturdy links and safety clasps.

3. Design and Craftsmanship

What distinguishes high-end quartz watches from budget watches is the attention to detail in design and assembly.
Low-priced watches: Often have a generic, mass-produced design with a basic dial (simple hour markers, minimal finishing). Craftsmanship may be rough (rough edges, misaligned hands, or loose parts).
High-priced watches: Have a unique, often proprietary design. Dials may include intricate details such as guilloché, applied hour markers (not printed), or luminous materials (e.g., Super-LumiNova for enhanced readability). Assembling is precise, crowns operate smoothly, case backs fit tightly, and water resistance is tested to a higher standard (e.g., more than 100 meters for dive watches).

4. Brand reputation and heritage

Brand value plays a big role in pricing, especially for luxury quartz watches.
Low-priced brands: Focus on affordability and do little marketing or brand recognition. They prioritize mass production over brand image.
High-priced brands: Often have a long history (e.g., Swiss brands with decades of watchmaking history) or a reputation for innovation. They invest in marketing, limited editions, and customer service, which increases the price.

5. Additional features

Extra features and technology increase the price of a quartz watch.
Low-priced watches: Often offer basic timekeeping functions (hours, minutes, seconds) and no other additional features. Some watches may include a simple date window, but are prone to time errors.
High-priced watches: May include advanced features such as a chronograph (stopwatch function with precise timekeeping), GMT (dual time zone), solar charging (nobattery replacement required), or Bluetooth connectivity (for syncing with smartphones). These features are more complex to engineer.

About Wanchenstarsky: Quality quartz watches for every budget
Wanchenstarsky is a rising brand in the quartz watch market, known for its exquisite craftsmanship and affordable prices. Here's what makes it stand out:
Movement: Wanchenstarsky's mid-range watches use reliable Japanese quartz movements (such as Seiko). models, ensuring accuracy of ±20 seconds per month—better than many affordable brands. High-end Wanchenstarsky watches feature upgraded movements and longer battery life (up to 5 years).
Materials: The brand prioritizes 316L stainless steel cases, which are durable without the high price. Straps include genuine leather straps and solid stainless steel bracelets, designed for comfort and long-lasting durability.
Design: Wanchenstarsky watches blend classic and modern aesthetics, with attention to dial details (e.g., luminous hands, textured dials) and water resistance (up to 50 meters for daily use and up to 100 meters for sports models).
Value: Positioned as a "mid-luxury" brand, Wanchenstarsky avoids the extremes of cheap affordable watches and high-priced luxury brands, making it ideal for buyers who want quality without overspending. Best quartz watch brand under $200

Conclusion
When distinguishing between high-priced and low-priced quartz watches, focus on movement quality, materials, craftsmanship, brand reputation, and additional features. While affordable watches are fine for everyday wear, investing in a mid-range or high-end model like the Wanchenstarsky can ensure better durability, accuracy, and style. Whether you’re looking for an everyday wear piece or a statement piece, understanding these factors can help you make an informed choice.
Final Image Recommendation: A selection of quartz watches covering different price points, with the Wanchenstarsky highlighted as a well-balanced choice at an affordable price.