12 Rolex Datejust Alternatives – Great Homage Watches You Can Actually Afford
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The Oyster Perpetual collection, including the famous ‘Datejust’, are among the most sought-after Rolex designs; primarily due to their timeless, classy appearance. They are undoubtedly some of the highest-quality watches on the market, but you’ll have to pay a pretty penny to fit one in your collection. With a starting price well into the thousands, it’s understandable that these pieces are an unrealistic proposition for most people in the market for a simple wristwatch.
Nevertheless, if you lust after the attractive design, there are several affordable Rolex Oyster Perpetual alternative watches that offer a similar look for less. This selection includes some of the best Rolex Datejust homage watches, many of which feature the iconic fluted bezel found on the original, while others feature a smooth bezel look instead.
This list is split into two sections, for your convenience: ‘clone watches’ and ‘homage watches’. The first features pieces that are near 1:1 clones of the Datejust, while the second portion houses watches that are clearly inspired by the Rolex, but with more unique design cues mixed in. To learn more about the difference between clones and homages, click here.
BEST ROLEX DATEJUST ‘CLONES’
san martin sn058-G & SN058-G-X
From a quality standpoint, San Martin is probably the best value brand on this list. I’ve reviewed perhaps a dozen of their watches to date, and this Chinese brand consistently offers the best finishing and build quality under the $500 mark; yes, including the big brands!
On paper, this has the exact specifications as some of the other Chinese clones (albeit typically with more water resistance), though the quality control tends to be higher from San Martin; I can’t remember the last time I received one with a misaligned bezel or offset markers. Are you listening, Seiko?!
San Martin makes two versions of their SN058, the 40mm SN058-G, and the 36.5mm SN058-G-X, each cloning particular fluted Rolex Datejust versions. Each of these utilizes the newer hexagonal San Martin logo, an improvement over its eyesore predecessor.
Interestingly, these can be purchased with your choice of movement. A Swiss Selitta SW200 and a Chinese Precision Technology PT5000 are selectable on AliExpress, the latter being comfortably the more ‘economical’ option. I’d definitely opt for the PT5000. After all, a Chinese watch with a Swiss movement is a horological oxymoron, no? Both are ETA-2824 clones anyway, and while the SW200 usually has better machining and finishing, that’s irrelevant when the rear of the watch is sealed. From my experience and what I’ve read online, the PT5000 is generally a tad more accurate than the SW200, too, making this decision a no-brainer.
The SN058 comes in a huge range of colors and is also purchasable with or without the San Martin dial logo. The primary nitpick is the bracelet. While it has a very neat clasp system, which provides a clean finish, it lacks micro-adjustment holes. Small jubilee links aren’t too troublesome in this regard, but I’d have appreciated a Glidelock clone as they implement in some other models.
Casio ‘Datejust’ MTP-1302PD
If you’re after a Rolex Datejust homage on a tight budget, look no further than the Casio MTP-1302PD. If you’ve followed Ben’s Watch Club for a while, you’ll be aware that I’m a massive fan of this Japanese brand, whom produce easily the best value quartz watches on the market. For well under £50, you can grab this ‘Datejust’ homage, that provides a very comparable design for less money than many leather straps.
Sure, the construction is only chromed brass. However, given the price it’s still a great looking little piece, with a surprising sunburst dial and reasonable 5ATM water resistance to boot. At 38.5mm, it makes for a well-sized middle-ground between the 36mm and 41mm sizes typically offered by Rolex; aligning closely with the 39mm of the standard Oyster Perpetual.
Despite the price tag, it still comes fitted by default with a reasonable stainless-steel bracelet and mineral glass over the dial, to give some limited scratch resistance. The high-shine case finishing leaves a bit to be desired, but looks fine from a distance.
Whilst not my favourite budget Casio, it’s absolutely a looker and is far better than buying a similarly priced illegal Rolex replica. Nobody would guess you’d only spent £40 on this budget beauty.
Pagani Design PD-1645 ‘Datejust’
The Pagani Design PD-1645 is one of the better quality Chinese-made Rolex clones, though is also the largest, at 42mm across. It features a reliable Seiko NH35A automatic movement, as well as a screw-down crown to aid the 100m of water resistance. They’ve also squeezed in a copy of the famous Glidelock clasp, which is arguably the most comfortable type on the market right now; you can easily adjust it tool-free on-the-fly.
Pagani Design is among the most well-respected of the modern Chinese watch brands and I was particularly impressed with their bargain mecha-quartz model that I looked at last year. You get a great deal of bang for buck with this brand and their Rolex Datejust homage certainly looks the part.
A handy extra feature is the lume, which is certainly above average for watches below £100. This should help in low light situations. This watch is also available in a part-skeletonised version, revealing part of the escapement assembly within.
Parnis ‘Datejust’ Automatic
A double homage to the smooth bezel Datejust and the 39mm Oyster Perpetual, this Parnis is poised to be an excellent fit for average wrists, at 39.5mm across.
Within is an automatic Japanese Miyota 8215 movement, surprising for such a low-cost watch. Not only is the case design very similar to that offered by Rolex, but the glass even features an identical cyclops above the date window.
The rear is slightly deceiving, appearing like a screw-down caseback, whilst only providing 30m of water resistance. Despite this, the watch looks way more expensive than the sub-£100 price tag, you’ll just have to wait around a month for shipping to bag this high-quality clone.
Cadisen C8053
I recently took a deeper dive into Cadisen watches after seeing their cheap minimalist watch destroy a similar offering from fashion brand MVMT. It turns out they have their own fluted bezel homage to the Rolex Datejust, featuring a stainless-steel case and an appealing 38mm diameter; making it a solid option for smaller wrists.
Remarkably, the brand has even fitted this watch with what they claim to be an ‘in-house’ movement. This is highly decorated Mingzhu 2813, with a gold finish and brightly coloured screws. Nevertheless, it works, which is the main concern when you’re spending this little on a wristwatch.
There are a few factors that indicate that this is a cheaper watch, including the shorter hands and the lack of precise alignment on the hour markers. The dial also claims a fictional ‘50ATM’ (500m) of water resistance, which is far from the case. It turns out it’s actually 5ATM, or 50m, instead. This is still perfectly reasonable, but I’d avoid swimming in this watch, let alone deep-sea diving!
Surprisingly, as seems to be the case with these Chinese watches, the bracelet is really good! This one has solid steel links throughout, including the end links and even features a butterfly style deployant clasp; which is effectively hidden when on-wrist. For a smaller watch that looks just like a Rolex at a glance, this Cadisen is worth a look at.
Timex Legacy 41mm & 36mm
A hidden gem quartz model that few have heard of, the Timex Legacy isn’t quite a copy and paste of the Rolex Datejust, but it’s pretty close! It has the same fluted bezel and handset and even comes in sizes equivalent to the mainline Datejust models. As one of the lowest-cost alternatives on this list, it isn’t built as well as some others but is at least fully stainless steel, unlike the comparably priced Casio ‘Datejust.’
Due to the movement choice, it’s slimmer than most others and is one of the better options for those after an accurate, low-maintenance piece. This model is also from a well-established Western brand, dating back to 1854. While history is nice to have, the easy returns that come with a brand like Timex are the real boon versus watches that require purchasing from AliExpress, where refunds are trickier to obtain.
Straying slightly from the watch that inspired it, this one has a day-date complication, rather than just the date, as well as metallic faceted markers, with lumed dots sitting at the circumference.
The main disadvantages of the Legacy are the inconsistent lume, the hands are fairly well coated, but the markers are very dim, and the crystal; it only uses mineral glass, which is typical on lower-end timepieces. Luckily, the 36mm version uses Indiglo, Timex’s signature night-light system, alleviating this issue.
You can grab this one in near-identical sizes and colors to the Rolex Datejust and Oyster Perpetual models, though this piece isn’t as widely available as more recent Timex models.
BEST ROLEX DATEJUST ‘HOMAGES’
Seiko SNXS79
One of the most popular Seiko 5 models, the SNXS79 has seen a great deal of success in recent times, primarily due to its striking resemblance to the Oyster Perpetual Rolex models. The high-polish case and bezel are visually similar from above, and while the crown arrangement is noticeably different, the dial more than makes up for it.
The position and shape of the indices, combined with the sunburst dial, make the watch look far more premium than the modest price tag would suggest. I’m under no doubt that Seiko had the Rolex Datejust in mind when crafting this 5 series model, given it’s a virtual carbon copy. At 37mm in diameter and with a lug-to-lug of 42mm, this is most comparable to some of the smaller 36mm Rolex models, making it a winner for small to medium-sized wrists.
From above, it’s a dead ringer, though from the side, you’ll find a more bulbous structure than the Rolex. It doesn’t fit as flush to the wrist as an Oyster Perpetual series, despite the similar proportions.
The SNXS series comes equipped with an automatic 7S26 movement, which lacks hacking and hand-winding, though it will provide durable long-term performance. You can even view the mechanism through the exhibition case-back.
The SNXS79 also provides day-date functionality at the 3 o’clock position, should that be on your shopping list. The main downside of this watch is the poor-quality bracelet, which is jangly despite being made of stainless steel. Its brushed texture also clashes with the polished case finish, which is unfortunate.
For often under £100, this is still an excellent starter watch for any collection, though I’d be tempted to try the SNK361 mentioned later in this list instead.
Citizen Tsuyosa
Clearly inspired by the Rolex Oyster Perpetual series (and the Tissot PRX to a lesser extent), the fashionable Citizen Tsuyosa maintains very similar visuals to the smooth bezel Datejusts.
With a recessed 4-o’clock crown and an integrated bracelet, the Tsuyosa is one of the sleekest and sportiest watches at its price point, with an array of bright colors to match. While the case brushing is relatively good, and it boasts a sapphire crystal, it is pretty thick and doesn’t have as much water resistance as others on this list.
At 40mm and with a short lug to lug, it is well-proportioned for average and larger wrists; just don’t expect the slimness of a quartz (as this is automatic).
Within is the Miyota 8210, which can be viewed through the exhibition glass case back. A widely-used calibre, this particular model has been specially customized for the Citizen Tsuyosa, with gold-tone finishing across the support plates and rotor. While reasonable for the price, this lower-tier Miyota falls short of the 9000 series in several ways, most notably from a noise perspective.
Despite its drawbacks, the dials are very distinctive, with the majority boasting punchy sunbursts and pleasing applied markers that do give an air of quality. Due to the stylish integrated-bracelet design, you are restricted to using the provided bracelet, however it’s better than those shipping with similarly priced Seiko and Orient watches, with solid links throughout and a clasp that houses plenty of adjustment holes, for fine tinkering.
Overall, a good buy, just bear in mind the sizing.
Orient Tristar
Japanese brand Orient are among the most celebrated affordable watch brands. They tend to offer some of the best bang-for-buck on the market, with a range of pleasing wristwatches for well under the £500 mark.
This classic is part of the ‘Tristar’ series of budget mechanical wristwatches. I recently reviewed a similar watch from that very same range and was very impressed with how much value was crammed in.
This piece offers a flashy alternative to an Oyster perpetual, with a similarly glossy case and bezel and featuring a selection of gold accents across the dial. I’m a big fan of this blue colourway in particular, which looks gorgeous even under moderate lighting.
The faceted handset and hour markers are somewhat akin to those on the Datejust, though this model features an inner ring of lume pips to aid low-light visibility; rather than having fully luminescent indices.
It comes fitted on a stainless-steel 5-link bracelet by default, which is wearable, albeit far from the highest quality. As with the aforementioned Seiko, a third-party bracelet from AliExpress would do this watch more justice – it would better match the case finishing too.
This is powered by an in-house Orient automatic movement, the calibre F4902. While nothing spectacular, this does have 21 jewels to aid durability and has a reasonable 40-hour power reserve.
At a shade under 40mm, this is a versatile modern size that should perfectly suit the majority of wrists out there. Crucially, at just 11mm in depth, it is noticeably slimmer than some of the similarly priced Seiko models; ensuring it sits flusher to the wrist, something worth noting if you enjoy long sleeved shirts.
The only real downside of this piece is the lacklustre 3ATM water resistance rating, essentially making the watch just ‘splash-proof’ rather than repeatedly submergible.
Seiko SNK361
From many angles, the Seiko SNK361 looks more like a Rolex than the SNXS79 mentioned previously. This model, also from the Seiko 5 range, features arguably the best-looking Seiko 5 case; with a flowing design, featuring ‘shoulders’ reminiscent of an Oyster Perpetual. This makes the piece sit flatter to the wrist than the SNXS79, which I think is a better look.
This SNK300 series also has a dial that bears a clear resemblance to the Rolex, with a near-identical handset and dial layout. It even comes in a range of colours that are similar to some of the Datejust models, though there are some notable differences. Firstly, the indices are raised slightly more, featuring less lume. Additionally, the dial itself has an unusual texture, features a spread of tiny ‘5’ shields across it. Personally, I’ve really come around to this look, but I imagine it could be very divisive. There is no doubt it’s still one of the best-looking Seiko 5 models, the recessed crown contributing to additional symmetry.
A combination of the case from this with the dial from the SNXS79 would make perhaps the best modified Seiko 5 build.
As with the other option, this features an automatic 7S26 movement, alongside full stainless-steel construction and a mineral crystal – to provide some limited scratch resistance. Once more, the bracelet isn’t the best, I’d say fractionally better than the other Seiko on the list. However, it’s still one of the best packages on the affordable market today. It’s likely to be discontinued soon, as Seiko continue to phase out their more traditional designs, in favour of more expensive modern ones like the ‘5KX’; so, grab one while you can!
Tissot Gentleman
Swiss giants Tissot recently waded into this space with an impressive watch that immediately struck me as a Rolex lookalike.
The aptly named ‘Gentleman’ range is one of Tissot’s flagship series; chances are you’ve probably seen this across the internet and social media, if you’re into wristwatches. This watch is produced in both a quartz and automatic variant, depending on your budget and taste. Both options sit at below £500 and give a similar case design to the Oyster Perpetual, with a thick high-shine bezel and large, grippy crown.
The automatic versions, named the ‘Powermatic 80 Silicium’ boast a whopping 80-hour power reserve, which is higher than that provided by the movements within Rolex’s line-up. This will ensure the watch keeps accurate time for several days, even if the watch isn’t in usage; something that cannot be said for the other mechanical watches in this rundown.
A viable alternative to the Tissot PR100, the quartz ‘Gentleman’ retains a similar look to its more expensive mechanical brethren, but arguably looks even more Oyster-esque. Both versions feature similar hands and lume pip placement, albeit the bevelled hour markers do set the Gentleman apart slightly. The dark date window on the black versions are very well integrated and the supplied bracelets are more than good enough considering the retail price.
The only real frustrations are the low beat movement and the awkward 21mm lug size found on most models; which will limit your selection of aftermarket straps.
While Rolex may be ‘Swiss Made’, so are Tissot, but for a fraction of the price of the former.
Mathey-Tissot
Unexpectedly no relation to ‘Tissot’, Mathey Tissot is a separate Swiss watchmaker founded back in 1886. While they do have a long and respected history, these days Mathey Tissot has rather settled with producing an array of homage watches, among some more unique pieces.
I do think there is great value to be had here. Their automatic version, in particular, houses the popular STP1-11 movement, which vibrates at an impressive 28,800 beats per hour (or 8 beats of the second hand per second).
The good news continues, as this is paired with full stainless-steel construction and AR-treated sapphire crystal. The water resistance is even reasonable at 50m.
Aesthetically, the fixed bezel, slim markers, and skinny handset are immediately recognizable as a wannabe Rolex. Unlike some of the other offerings on the list, it even features the cyclops over the date window to aid visibility. I do like the intricate dial texture, which matches well with a variety of clothing fabric.
Interestingly, sizing varies notably between different models. Those with a mechanical movement sit at a larger 42mm, whilst the cheaper quartz versions are a more modest 40mm, meaning there are some options depending on your wrist size. While the latter is substantially lower cost, it does lack the sapphire, featuring lower-grade mineral glass.
They also produce a smooth bezel version, more representative of the regular Oyster Perpetual.
Rotary ‘Oxford’ GB05092/04
Originally a Swiss brand, Rotary are a household name in the United Kingdom. While they have the occasional piece manufactured domestically, the majority of their budget pieces are produced in Japan and China.
While they pride themselves with their unique designs, it’s clear that their ‘Oxford’ model has taken strong design cues from the Rolex Oyster Perpetual line. The steel case is the main giveaway, as it closely matches the shape and structure of the original, this time featuring a brushed upper combined with a polished bezel and flanks. Even the solid-link stock bracelet looks like it’s been taken straight off a Datejust.
The overall finishing is good, my only gripe being that the direction of the lug brushing doesn’t match the vertical brushing on the end links. Like the Seiko SGF200 series, this is also a pricier quartz option, though this Rotary comes with the benefits of scratchproof sapphire crystal and increased water resistance.
The main differences between this and the original are the baton indices and unusual hand style, which takes on a hybrid dauphine/baton shape that I’ve not come across before. At 40mm across and just 9mm deep, this is a fantastic size for average wrists, but it’s still a pricey watch, often retailing for nearly £200. I think that is on the high side, I’d aim to spend no more than £150 on this piece if possible.
