Cheaper, less conspicuous, more available: 5 perfect Rolex alternatives

First of all, you can never go wrong with a Rolex watch - quite the opposite. Almost all models now have a decades-long history and are distinguished by their stylish continuity. The functionality and reliability of the Geneva-based manufacturer's luxury watches are also second to none. And while Rolex has always been considered stable in value, the hype on luxury watches has led to most models being a promising investment. It does not matter whether the watches are worn or lie unworn in the safe.

Nevertheless, there may be good reasons to choose some suitable Rolex alternatives. Be it the sometimes difficult availability or the comparatively high price that the sought-after models now cost. Some watch lovers also simply prefer to wear less popular, quieter models on their wrist than the big luxury classics.

Omega Seamaster for Rolex Submariner

The Rolex Submariner is not called the reference among diving watches for nothing: Hardly any other diving watch is as iconic as the Submariner, which has been in production since 1954. For this reason, the search for Rolex Submariner alternatives seems particularly challenging. Nevertheless, one luxury watch can hold a candle to the Toolwatch: The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M is among the best Rolex Submariner alternatives. While the first Seamaster reference saw the light of day as early as 1947, the Omega Seamaster has only had its distinctive design for around 30 years. However, this does not change the fact that the model's appearance is just as striking as that of the Submariner.

Like the Submariner, the Seamaster is water-resistant up to 300 metres and equipped with a date window. As far as the movement is concerned, Omega is even a touch ahead of Rolex: the certification as a Master Chronometer, the Co-Axial escapement and the sophisticated decoration of the Omega calibre 8800 are attractive unique selling points.

Zenith Chronomaster Sport for Rolex Cosmograph Daytona

As much sought-after as the Rolex Daytona is, this model is hard to come by. Ever since the launch of the first automatic Daytona reference in 1988, the demand for the watch has been so great that you can consider yourself lucky if you have one of these timepieces on your wrist.

At the beginning of 2021, Zenith presented one of the most exciting Rolex Daytona alternatives, the Chronomaster Sport: Not only did the "Fabrique des Montres Zenith" supply Rolex with automatic calibres for the Daytona Ref. 16520 in the 1980s. The Chronomaster Sport also has a black ceramic bezel and, like the Daytona, is available with either a black or white dial. The highlight of the Chronomaster Sport, however, is the El Primero movement, which allows the measurement of 1/10th of a second: For this purpose, the central second-hand circles the dial every 10 seconds when the chronograph is activated; the bezel, which is divided into 100 steps, allows the measurement of a tenth of a second.

Tudor Black Bay GMT for Rolex GMT-Master II

The GMT-Master II is also one of the most sought-after watches from Rolex. This applies not only to the top model - the red and blue Pepsi - but also to the black and blue Batman and Batgirl respectively, as well as to the bi-colour and full gold references.

With the Black Bay GMT, the Rolex subsidiary Tudor has been offering a genuine alternative to the GMT-Master since 2018. While the GMT-Master II has entered the realm of constructive modernity, the Black Bay GMT dares to take a step in the direction of charming historicity: this includes the matt dial, the traditional aluminium bezel, the large crown and the rivet bracelet. The 300-metre water resistance and the unpretentious appearance of the Tudor Black Bay GMT make the watch - which, like the GMT-Master, has a so-called genuine GMT function - an ideal travel companion.

Cartier Santos for Rolex Datejust

Although Rolex is known for its Professional models (Submariner, GMT-Master, Daytona and co.), the classic Datejust is the oldest and most traditional model. With this collection, Rolex launched the first automatic watch with a date display in 1945. If you are looking for similar watches for the Rolex Datejust, you will inevitably come across a model with an even longer history: the Cartier Santos. This watch has been in production since 1911 and is considered the first-ever wristwatch for men.

Although the Cartier Santos was originally a pilot's watch, today, the model is above all a fine dress watch: the many polished surfaces and its distinguished design make the watch an icon. With the new edition in 2018, Cartier offers the Santos in contemporary diameters and with a sophisticated manufacture calibre.

Breitling Colt for Rolex Oyster Perpetual

Another successful Rolex alternative to the Oyster Perpetual is the Breitling Colt: both models focus on the essential features and characteristics of the brands. While the Rolex Oyster Perpetual represents the quintessence of the Oyster models, the Breitling Colt also combines the typical brand features with equally high reliability. With its water-resistance of 200 metres, the typical rider bezel and a robust movement, the Colt is a reliable, inconspicuous companion for every situation and thus an ideal alternative to the Oyster Perpetual.

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