If you're reading this article, it's likely that Swatch did not include you among the 1969 lucky individuals who managed to purchase the MoonSwatch Mission To The Moon 1969 with Moonshine Gold dial and hands.
If this disappoints you, know that the WatchTested team doesn't have this model either.
Since saving on the MoonSwatch amounts to around 600 euros, these funds can be kept in your pocket or invested in other interesting watches. Since you've probably already hinted to your loved ones that you're planning to buy a new accessory, let's take advantage of this opportunity. Below are five models priced similarly to the MoonSwatch. We hope one of them will bring you as much joy as the limited MoonSwatch Mission To The Moon 1969.
Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical: A Classic Field Watch
The first option is from the same "family" as the Swatch MoonSwatch! The Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical is a time-tested choice among mechanical field watches from a major brand. Hamilton needs no introduction: the company supplied watches for the US Army since World War II. Since 1974, the brand has been under Swiss ownership, and since 2003, its headquarters are in Biel, Switzerland.
The Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical is a magnificent piece. The 38mm case version costs only about 625 euros. The watch is equipped with a hand-wound mechanical caliber H-50, providing an 80-hour power reserve. The case thickness is only 9.5mm, and the lug-to-lug distance is 47mm. For those who prefer different sizes, versions of 36mm and 42mm are available. The lineup offers numerous dial options, but we prefer the classic black or white versions. The model's water resistance is 50 meters.
Baltic HMS 002: Vintage Style from a Microbrand
If you're looking for something more elegant, inspired by vintage designs from Longines, Omega, or even Patek Philippe, consider the Baltic HMS 002. The Baltic brand has become one of the strongest European microbrands. For just 465.85 euros, you get an excellent 38mm watch with a beautiful 1940s-style design. In major watch houses, this amount would only buy you a strap.
Inside the Baltic HMS 002 is an automatic Miyota 8315 movement with a 60-hour power reserve. Model parameters include a thickness of 13mm, a lug-to-lug distance of 47mm, and water resistance of 50 meters.
Seiko 5 Sports GMT SSK023: The Perfect Travel Choice
A more sporty option would be the Seiko 5 Sports SSK0:: The watch features a GMT function and a 24-hour scale bezel. It is perhaps the best available travel watch priced around 460 euros. Inside is the Seiko 4R34 movement, which displays the time, date, and has an additional hand for a second time zone, indispensable for globetrotters. The power reserve is 41 hours, and water resistance reaches 100 meters.
The Seiko SSK023 case has a diameter of 39.4mm, a thickness of 14mm, and a lug-to-lug distance of 47.9mm. The glass is made of durable Hardlex mineral glass, and the hands and indexes glow excellently thanks to Lumibrite lume. It's a versatile choice for both everyday wear and international trips.
Citizen Tsuyosa Shore: A Bright Wrist Accent
The Tsuyosa line has become one of Citizen's major hits, as evidenced by user interest in this series. We recently talked about the Tsuyosa Shore models, priced from 329 euros. They feature an integrated bracelet, vibrant dials, and decent finishing, making them an easy recommendation.
As noted by our experts, the new series offers a more casual style for those not suited by the first line. Tsuyosa Shore models are perfect for daytime use on vacation and paired with the classic Tsuyosa version for evening outings.
Available in steel, two-tone, or gold versions, these models have a diameter of 40mm, a thickness of 12.5mm, and a lug-to-lug distance of 45mm. Inside is the Citizen 8210 caliber (automatic) with a 40-hour power reserve. Water resistance of 100 meters makes them quite versatile.
Bulova Snorkel: A Bright Hybrid
Although we have yet to evaluate them in person, the Bulova Snorkel looks like a very interesting purchase within a budget of 600 euros. These bright watches made of hybrid ceramic come with Tropic-style rubber straps. All variants are equipped with a quartz movement - not outstanding, but highly efficient. The watches have 100 meters of water resistance and a 60-minute rotating bezel.
The Bulova Snorkel case measures 41 × 14.6mm and is inspired by the Oceanographer model. They are available in various colors and cost about 249 euros. In concept, these watches are close to the MoonSwatch idea, and it seems that Bulova drew inspiration from the Swatch aesthetic.
MoonSwatch: Alternative Models of the Collection
Of course, you can always decide to spend the money on another MoonSwatch model. Last week, we published an article on our five favorite models from this collection. The good news is that most non-limited models are now widely available.
And which option under 600 euros would you choose? Write in the comments.