Buy used, from a reputable dealer, it will come with a 1 year warranty, and may even only be a couple of years old with the manufacturers warranty still valid. You could get a nice Omega Seamaster (co-axial with silicon balance springs have a 4-year warranty) for that.
If you really want new, Tag offer great values for money. A Carrera was my first foray into the luxury Watch market 10 years ago and you can still get those new for around that price.