looking for a simple watch, any help at all would be appreciated

Assuming you like white/silver dials, a Hamilton Jazzmaster seems like solid choice:



It comes in 40 and 44mm with any leather band color you like.

They run about $500-$600.

Kent Wang offers a nice, simple watch http://www.kentwang.com/accessories/bauhaus-watch.html

I personally prefer the Hamilton based on the fact that between the 3, I prefer the one with an ETA movement. The CW uses a Sellita SW200 movement, which while has a fairly positive reception, some consider to be a little below ETA. ETA movements are extremely well known and very "tried and true", hence I prefer them at this market segment. Nearly all watchmakers know ETA, which makes it easier to service when the times comes. This is just me though, it is likely that I am biased by having more experience with ETA. I have little experience with the BWAF movement in the Kent Wang. All I know it is comes from China and has a 40 hour power reserve, upon a quick search, it appears people are pleased with their quality control.

Junghans Max Bill Automatic or Chronoscope - if you can find one vintage it might be right outside your $700 range.

Otherwise I really like the Seiko 5 and Citizen Eco Drive BM8180 - with leather Nato straps

http://www.bluedial.com/bm8180-03e.htm

I just got a vintage Omega Seamaster with a leather band on Ebay for $300. Check them out.