Luxury watches are symbols of status, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance, but their price tags can be out of reach for many. Fortunately, the watch industry offers a range of affordable lookalikes that capture the essence of these high-end timepieces without breaking the bank. While for some people, these watches still might be out of their price range, they are significantly cheaper than their luxury counterparts; hence their inclusion within this guide. Whether you’re drawn to the classic design of a Rolex or the intricate details of an Audemars Piguet, plenty of budget-friendly options exist. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best affordable lookalikes for iconic luxury watches; helping you achieve that sophisticated look without compromising on style or quality.
Affordable Lookalikes for Luxury Watches
Bulova Men’s Lunar Pilot Chronograph Black Dial / Stainless Steel Bracelet and Black Leather Strap Set 96K111
This Bulova Lunar Pilot is a popular lookalike for the Omega Speedmaster Professional. One of the world’s most iconic timepieces, it is an impressive representation of the brand’s adventuring pioneering spirit. The Lunar Pilot’s relationship with the Omega Speedmaster is rare in the watch world. They share several characteristics, and when placed next to each other are a near-perfect match! Both watches are comprised of a stainless steel case and matching bracelet, but the Bulova model also comes with a black leather option.
The Bulova watch features a black chronograph dial with a tachymeter display. As well as this, it features luminous baton indices and hands that aid readability in low-light conditions. The case houses a high-precision quartz movement; providing the Bulova Lunar Pilot Chronograph with a 42-hour power reserve. Similarly, the Omega Speedmaster has a black chronograph dial with luminous hands and indices. The major difference, however, is that a self-winding movement powers this model rather than a quartz one. As a whole, this Bulova is a fantastic and affordable lookalike for the luxurious Omega Speedmaster; hence its inclusion within this blog.
Certina Men’s DS Action GMT Powermatic 80 C0329291104100
Standing out with its ‘Pepsi’ bezel and impressive GMT function, this Certina DS Action is a fantastic dupe for the Rolex GMT Master II. At first glance, these two timepieces look incredibly similar, but some differences make their presence known. This is not a problem though, as the watches in this blog are not supposed to be recreations; rather they are affordable lookalikes. Starting with similarities, both watches have a high-quality stainless steel case, bracelet, and iconic ‘Pepsi’ style bezel. As well as this, a date aperture at 3 o’clock and a GMT function; which allows for the reading of a second time zone. While the dial of the Certina is blue, and the dial of the Rolex is black, they each feature luminous diver-style indices and hands.
The case diameter of the two watches is also incredibly similar, with the difference only being 1mm! So they appear the same way on the wrist. As each model has a GMT function, a reliable and precise movement must power each. Both watches utilise an automatic mechanical movement, with the Certina having an 80-hour power reserve, and the Rolex having a 70-hour one. For an added touch, the movement on the Certina can be viewed through the exhibition case back. Moreover, each watch has a water resistance rating that makes it a suitable choice for daily wear. While not identical, this Certina DS Action is a great alternative to the Rolex GMT Master II. The price tag of the Certina may still be high, but it is quite a reduction compared to the Rolex; so its ‘affordable lookalike’ title remains true. h
Hamilton American Classic Boulton Small Second Quartz (27.3mm) White Dial / Dark Blue Leather Strap H13421611
Sleek, sophisticated, and most definitely stylish, the Cartier Tank Américaine is an icon in its own right. Its rectangular case shape impresses with its vintage flair and the Hamilton American Classic Boulton captures this essence almost perfectly. Small details vary, but the similarities are so great that this isn’t a problem; rather it’s what makes the Hamilton a very accurate and affordable lookalike, not a carbon copy.
As previously mentioned, each model features a rectangular stainless steel case, and this surrounds a white dial of the same shape. Both dials feature black Roman numerals and blued-steel sword-shaped hands for that vintage look. As well as this, a railway minute track whose location varies depending on the model. For further functionality, a small seconds sub-dial features at 6 o’clock on the Hamilton model. Furthermore, each model is protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal for optimal durability. A reliable quartz movement powers each watch and a dark blue alligator-style leather strap secures each to the wrist. Offering the same classic yet vintage look that the Cartier Tank possesses, the Hamilton American Classic Boulton is a perfect lookalike for this luxury watch. And thanks to its affordable price tag, can soon become your next signature timepiece.
Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic (42mm) Blue Clous de Paris Dial / Stainless Steel AI6008-SS002-430-1
The price tag of this Maurice Lacroix may be out of range for some, however, in comparison to its Audemars Piguet counterpart, it is extremely affordable! From the shade of blue used for the dial to the placement of the logo and date aperture, the two watches are almost identical in appearance. However, each displays its own unique, and very eye-catching, style. Starting with similarities, both watches have a high-quality stainless steel case, bracelet, and distinctive bezel. As well as this, a date aperture at 3 o’clock. While the dial colour of each model is the same, the pattern varies; the Audemars Piguet has a ‘Grande Tapisserie’ pattern, whereas its affordable lookalike has a tapisserie-inspired pattern. For optimal readability, each dial features luminous baton indices and hands.
A stainless steel case frames each dial, and the difference in diameter is 1mm (41mm for AP and 42mm for ML). So when on the wrist, the watches will have the same appearance as the other; a strong and prominent one. Each case also features an anti-reflective sapphire crystal and a screw-down crown which aids the water resistance of each model; 50 metres for the Audemars Piguet and 200 metres for the Maurice Lacroix. Visible through the exhibition case back, an automatic movement, with a 38-hour power reserve, powers the Maurice Lacroix. Whereas, a self-winding movement, with a 70-hour power reserve, powers the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. Back to similarities, each watch is finished with a high-quality stainless steel bracelet and folding clasp.
Jacques Du Manoir Inspiration Crystal (26mm) Silver Dial / Two-Tone Stainless Steel Bracelet NRO.08
Our final selection within this ‘affordable lookalikes for luxury watches’ blog, the Rolex Lady-Datejust and Jacques Du Manoir Inspiration Crystal look so similar that they could be sisters! Crystal-set and two-toned, they ooze elegance and sophistication; perfect for any stylish lady. While the two watches look the same at first glance, their materials differ.
The case of the Jacques Du Manoir model is made of stainless steel and features a gold-tone fluted bezel, whereas the Rolex is made of Oystersteel and features a yellow gold fluted bezel. The Jacques Du Manoir watch features a silver sunray dial with crystal-set indices. As well as this, gold-tone hands and a magnified date aperture at 3 o’clock. The case houses a Swiss-made quartz movement; providing the watch with great reliability. In contrast, the Rolex Lady-Datejust has a beautiful mother-of-pearl dial with crystal-set indices and yellow gold hands. A self-winding automatic movement, with a 55-hour power reserve, powers the watch; it also ensures great reliability and precision. Finally, the design of both watches concludes with a two-tone bracelet for a complementary look. A fantastic and affordable lookalike for the luxurious Rolex Lady-Datejut, this Jacques Du Manoir deserves to be on the wrist of any glamourous lady; even if she’s on a budget.
What are your thoughts on our affordable lookalikes for luxury watches blog? Will you be adding one to your collection? Let us know in the comments below!
