looking for heart rate wrist watch style monitors that don't require a chest strap..is there such a thing?

Answer 1

what you want is called a finger pulse oximeter. however it also measures oxygenation (saturation %) of the blood. therefore expect to pay upwards of $200. there are some gadgets, dont know their name which measure blood pressure and heart rate that also fit the finger or wear on the wrist. try googling "heart rate wrist monitor"
these particular items are often available in a drug store and even wal mart

Answer 2

I've seen one that monitors the pulse in the fingers rather than using a chest strap, but it wasn't really a wristwatch style. More like a glove.