Written by Menswear Style in Brands on the 7th February 2024

For many, a watch is more than just a time-keeping device. It's a statement piece, an expression of personal style, and often, an object of aspiration. However, the world of premium watches can be inaccessible due to exorbitant prices. But don’t worry, there’s a solution to this problem! Fortunately for you, the world is filled with excellent timepieces that masterfully blend style with affordability. In this article, we'll take you through 12 fantastic alternatives to premium watch brands, proving that you don't need to break the bank for a high-quality wristwatch.

12 Great Alternatives to Premium Watch Brands to Try 

Are you passionate about watches but don't want to splurge on top-tier brands? Don't worry; we've got you covered. Here's a list of 12 watch brands that are beautiful and inexpensive.

1. SÖNER 

If you’re looking for Cartier Tank alternatives for less, then look no further than a SÖNER watch. Their Legacy Empire, Nostalgia New York, and Amorous Vienna all look like the Cartier staple, but you can get it at a low cost. SÖNER’s are also good quality, so they should last a while. 

2. Baltic 

The Patek Phillipe Calatrava is a beautiful watch, but it can be hard to part with $21K all at once. But with the Baltic MR01 model, you won’t have to. While it’s still a pricey watch at $600 dollars, you’ll get to sport a nearly identical Calatrava with its similar-looking leather band. 

3. Seiko 

Seiko makes some of the best dive watches in the world, and they’re really good at duplicating styles. Some notable examples include the Seiko Prospex SRPC93, which looks like the Omega Seamaster, and the Seiko SUP880, which is a convincing Cartier Tank alternative. 

4. Rotary 

One showstopper we’d love to get our hands on is Audemars Piguet's Royal Oak. If only we had $30K! Since we don’t, we’ll sport the Rotary Regent. Its $500 price tag is small compared to the $30K and comes with a deep green face plate that looks great against the metal.

5. Bulova 

Omega’s Speedmaster Professional is a NASA-approved “Moon Watch” that’s as beautiful as it is expensive. The Bulova Lunar Pilot is here to save the day with its 262 kHz high-performance quartz movement. Did you know that Bulova watches were also worn on the moon? 

6. Orient 

If you’re looking for a small dress watch that mimics the JLC Master Ultra Thin Moon, then try out an Orient. This budget-friendly brand has the Star RA-AS0102S model for only $300. The Orient Kamasu dive watch is also a great and inexpensive Omega Seamaster dupe. 

7. Dan Henry 

The Omega Speedmaster also finds another convincing copy in the Dan Henry line. The Dan Henry 1962 was inspired by some of the more vintage models Dan Henry has collected over the years. It also features a tachymeter bezel like the Speedmaster and a meca-quartz movement. 

8. Brew Watch Co. 

The Tag Heuer Monaco, based on the Monaco Grand Prix, is a household name in the watch circle, and you can get a similar-looking watch for much cheaper. The Brew Retrograph Technicolor has the same retro color combo as the Monaco and a nearly identical layout.

9. Spinnaker 

Budget watchmaker Spinnaker has a piece called the Hull California that looks like the cousin of the Panerai Luminor. With its military-inspired numerals and faced face, it can be mistaken as a military watch. While not as big as the Luminor, you’ll still enjoy this beautiful timepiece. 

10. Timex 

The iconic Rolex GMT Master II will cost you over 10k, but you can find the most unlikely dupe from the most famous low-cost watch company, Timex. The Timex Q Reissue looks very similar to the GMT with its Pepsi-colored design and will only set you back $200. What a steal! 

11. Tissot 

One of the most coveted watches, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, is an eye-watering $28K, but you don’t have to pay nearly as much for the Tissot PRX. With its quartz movement, you’re getting a lot for $400, so you don’t have to worry about any kind of drop in craftsmanship. 

12. D1 Milano 

D1 Milano is a new budget watch company on the scene, but their Ocean line looks like it could be the sister of the Patek Philippe Nautilus. With the D1 Milano, you’ll capitalize on good finishing, especially for the price. You’ll also get the ironic ears at the side of the face.

In Conclusion… 

So, if you've always yearned for a stunning timepiece but have been concerned about the expense, take heart. The world of watches is varied enough to cater to all styles and budgets. With these fantastic alternatives, you're no longer left wanting. It's time to make a statement!

Featuring SÖNER, Baltic, Seiko, Rotary, Bulova, Orient, Dan Henry, Brew, Spinnaker, Timex, Tissot, and D1 Milano.