People say that diamonds are forever, but so are watches. If women are head over heels for anything shiny and sparkling like diamonds, then men are certainly falling for classic timepieces.
A watch’s primary function is to tell the time, that’s a given. However, quality timepieces do so much more than that. You may think that watch collecting is something only the rich can afford, but it’s actually not! Unfortunately, non-millionaires who fancy classic timepieces are left to observe along the sidelines because they think collecting watches is a luxury. The truth is, you can still get a hold of these classic and beautiful timepieces if you know where to look.
So what can you really buy that wouldn’t break the bank? Good news! There are many affordable alternatives in the market that watch collectors can tolerate and say yes to; you just have to know which ones are worth it. Also, you can change the look of you watch completely with the help of bands versa 2 bands available online.
Instead Of The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Submariner ($7,975)
There is a reason why this particular Rolex design is an icon, time and time again. Introduced back in 1953, the Rolex Submariner keeps its aesthetic unchanged despite the increasing number of innovative and modern designs emerging in the market today. This explains its timeless, classic beauty that can pass on from generation to generation—crafted in robust 904L steel, Cerachrom, and ceramic bezel with a platinum coating on its numbers and markers. Don’t even get started with the insides, as the interior is just as impressive as the exterior. The mere fact that Rolex Submarines rarely depreciate their value is all the more reason you should get it if you can afford it.
Why Not Try The Invicta 8926OB Pro Diver Automatic ($85)
Let’s face it: there are quite a handful of Rolex knockoffs available out there, but only the Invicta can copy it in spirit. The 660-feet water-resistant diver comprises full stainless steel, with a 44mm diameter, fully automatic, not needing a battery ever in your life. Yes, that’s right! Even its screw crown resists water from perpetrating the interior, and its mineral crystal face can mean you can go on a hike and drop the watch without worrying about scratches. The fact that it surpasses Rolex’s Submariner for less than a hundred dollars only means it’s a keeper. Every watch collector might just be screaming “SOLD!” now.
Instead Of The Rolex GMT Master II ($19,899)
Unveiled in 1982, the Rolex GMT Master II is heir to the iconic GMT Master, developed initially as a navigation instrument to professionals crisscrossing the globe.
According to Rolex, when abroad, travelers can easily tell the time in two timezones simultaneously. That’s what makes the GMT Master II popular. But more than that, the exterior is also a hot topic because of the Calibre 3285, which is a new-generation movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. This technology promotes a self-winding mechanical movement that delivers utmost precision, convenience, reliability, and resistance to shocks and magnetic fields. Any watch collector will fall head over heels with the GMT Master II, no doubt.
Why Not Try The Seiko Prospex ($1,159)
Seiko is known to mirror the designs of the famous dive watches from Europe over the last century. The brand does not deny this and, is in fact, not ashamed of mimicking the design without compromising the quality and going over the budget. With the known tradition of Seiko quality, the brand probably feels they’ve improved a lot in the field over the last couple of years.
And sure they did! The Seiko Prospex dive watch looks and functions much like a Rolex GMT Master II. The Prospex’s circle markers, luminous hands, and case shape are all impeccably similar to the GMT Master II. But here’s the catch: Seiko does it with solar power. All for the price of more or less than a thousand dollars!
Instead Of The Panerai Luminor Marina PAM00111 ($5,695)
Manly and powerful watches with bold and simple styles like the Panerai is something most watch collectors would love to get their hands on. The Luminor Marina, in particular, is a classic iteration with a luminescent sandwich dial and single small seconds subdial, as well as their iconic cushion style case in a masculine 44mm diameter. On top of that, the push and pull crown is protected by a guard and lever setup, with its transparent skeleton case back allowing the owner to stare at the mechanical hand-wound movement.
Why Not Try The Fanmis Black Dial GMT Automatic ($105)
The Fanmis Black Dial is undeniably the spitting image of the Panerai, but a whole lot more affordable. This timepiece is made with materials like a 44mm stainless steel case, scratch-proof mineral glass, and an automatic movement. To top it all off, the Fanmis even has the Panerai-like crown protector and the classic brown leather band to give you a sporty and classic look all at the same time, all for a fraction of the Panerai’s price.
Instead of The Audemars Piquet Royal Oak ($56,700)
The Audemars Piquet Royal Oak is undeniably one of the most sought-after watches of all time. With its steel case and Tapisserie dial, the Royal Oak sure has succeeded over many luxurious watches, and has indeed taken its rightful place as a modern icon. However, one Royal Oak could cause you a good amount of wallet damage.
Why Not Try The Casio ‘CASIOAK’ GA 2100 ($99)
The Casio GA 2100 is likely the most popular alternative to the classic Royal Oak as it is now colloquially named the CasiOak.
It was never mentioned whether this G-Shock model was designed after the Royal Oak, but all-time Casio fans were quick to jump on the bandwagon anyway. Of course, the dial and other technicalities themselves are rather different from the original Royal Oak. Still, the fans’ love for Casio has undoubtedly earned the watch’s spot on the list of frugal alternatives. At 46mm in size and with its commanding built, this watch would blend in just right with streetwear fashion.
Wrapping Up
So you see, you can skip breaking the bank if you know which timepiece alternatives are worth the penny. You don’t have to have deep pockets to look classy and high-powered. All you need is a little research, and you’re good to go!
About The Author
Luther Abrams
Luther Abrams is quite a jack of all trades type of guy. He loves exploring new things and cultivating his knowledge every now and then. Today, he grows more and more interested in jewelry and watches and even writes about such things in his free time.
