The Ultimate Seiko Rolex Killer List - Affordable Seiko Watches That Look Like Rolex
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If I asked you to name a watch brand, Rolex is probably the first that pops into your head. The Swiss watchmaker is synonymous with luxury timepieces, boasting some of the most popular designs on earth, such as the Submariner, Daytona, Datejust, Air King, Yachtmaster, Milgauss, GMT-Master, and many others.
Unfortunately, due to their celebrated status, Rolex watches are more expensive than ever, with the majority even locked behind controversial 'wait lists,' where you have to queue for months for a chance to purchase one.
If you love Rolex designs but don't fancy remortgaging your house to own one, then you're in luck. I've cherry-picked some appealing options from similarly acclaimed watchmaker Seiko. This Japanese giant has an immeasurable range of watches, a handful of which do an excellent job of replicating the Rolex look, for a fraction of the price. While they may not be 1:1 clones like many 'homage' watches, they're well-built, and each resembles a specific Rolex model. Basically, this is the ultimate list for those after a Seiko that looks like Rolex.
Let's dive into the details.
SEIKO WATCHES THAT LOOK LIKE THE ROLEX SUBMARINER
The Submariner is probably the most widely-known Rolex model. Here are a couple of Seiko dive watches that look quite like the Rolex Submariner.
Seiko 5 SNZF 'Sea Urchin'
Seiko 5 SNZF17 vs Rolex Submariner
Out of the Seiko lineup, the SNZF (SNZF15/SNZF17), nicknamed the 'Sea Urchin,' is probably the most visually similar to the Rolex Submariner. While it may lack the Mercedes hour hand, the remainder of the watch was evidently designed with the Rolex in mind. The hour indexes are carbon copies, though the second marks are printed directly onto a raised chapter ring, rather than onto the dial. The case style is similar to the Rolex, with a slightly smaller set of crown guards.
The 41mm diameter is equivalent to the 41mm version of Submariner, though the SNZF has a noticeably shorter lug to lug of 46mm, meaning it will wear slightly smaller on the wrist.
As you'll find with all the watches on this list, this Seiko is constructed of 316L stainless steel, which performs comparably to the 904L stainless steel preferred by Rolex. There are some technical differences, but most people wouldn't notice a considerable reduction in performance. The finishing on this model is reasonable, but it is surpassed by some of the more modern Seiko 5s mentioned later on.
The older 7S26 Seiko Automatic powering this watch is reliable, though it lacks hacking and hand-winding. That last omission means you'll have to manually rotate the watch to wind it, which is frustrating for those not wanting to wear the same watch continuously.
This watch has a reasonable 100m of water resistance and a Hardlex (mineral) crystal, which are commonplace among Seiko 5 watches but inferior to Rolex, which boasts 300m and scratchproof sapphire, respectively.
I'd talk about the band options and colorways, but there's something more pressing you need to know about the Seiko Sea Urchin; availability. Seiko has recently culled this model to make way for some of their next-gen dive watches. This discontinuation means your choices are likely to be heavily restricted, and you may end up forking out far more than the original $100-$150 RRP to get your hands on this fan favorite.
Seiko 5 SRPD
Seiko 5 SRPD63 vs Rolex Submariner “Hulk”
The previous two watches were among those sacrificed to make way for the introduction of the Seiko 5 SRPD. This new range, known colloquially as the "5KX", was genetically engineered from the cult classic SKX divers, which abruptly met their fate a few years ago (more on those shortly). Seiko put a lot of marketing bucks behind this one, and it's clear to see why.
The SRPD came in at a higher price than the SKX, with specifications that didn't look all that compelling; the movement was improved, but the water resistance slashed to just 100 meters. Fortunately, when reviewers got hold of the watch, they were met with a substantially better level of finishing.
Indeed, the SRPD55 and its compatriots look and feel higher quality than previous iterations, with finer brushing and better stock bands/bracelets. The SRPD line launched in 2019 with almost 30 different colors, which has been expanded since, meaning you can grab a color analogous to your favorite Rolex design.
Visually, this watch isn't as homogenous to the Submariner as the previous two Seikos, as the crown is situated at 4 o'clock, and the shape is a little more bulbous. That said, the applied dial markers are pretty darn close, and the bezel looks similar, too, even housing a coin edge outer for enhanced grip. Overall, this is one of the best quality options on this list, and the 4R36 movement (branded version of the NH36) is fully featured, unlike the last-gen 7S26. It even has handy extras like an exhibition rear, allowing you to see the movement in action, and drilled lugs for more convenient strap changes. At 42mm, this is quite large, though wears almost identically to the 41mm Submariner due to the stubbier profile.
Seiko SKX (SKX007, SKX009, SKX013)
Seiko SKX013 vs Rolex Submariner
Now, to the original, the SKX. Launched in 1996, the SKX isn't actually one watch, but three. There's the black SKX007 and 'Pepsi' blue-red SKX009, both measuring 42mm, as well as the smaller 38mm SKX013. Why were these watches discontinued? Well, likely because Seiko was making a lot of money from them, and they realized they could be making far MORE money from them. To be fair, the watches were getting a tad outdated, especially with the aging 7S26 movement inside.
As you might expect, given that these were the basis for the above SRPD, these watches have all the same design hallmarks and are thus not a million miles away from the stereotypical Submariner-esque diver. The most significant aesthetic change is the indices, which are only inked onto the surface on the SKX. Limited colors are also a factor if you're after an alternative to a particular Rolex model; the SKX only has the three stock colors, though modders do tend to offer a wider array of options if you're into that sort of thing.
These days, the SKX is a scalper's paradise. You're looking at closer to $500 for a watch that once cost $150! For most of you reading this, the SRPD is the way to go. The only advantages that the SKX has over it are the screw-down crown and 200m water resistance rating, which hardly compensates for the huge price jump. This is particularly disappointing news for those after a small Seiko alternative to the Rolex Submariner, where the SKX013 is just about your only option. For more small diver inspiration, it's probably worth checking out my small dive watch roundup, where there are some better value choices.
SEIKO WATCHES THAT LOOK LIKE ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL, DATEJUST & MILGAUSS
The 'Oyster Perpetual' designation is typically the go-to for Rolex's dressier designs, including the Datejust and Milgauss. I've managed to track down an array of fantastic Oyster Perpetual alternatives which can give you the same degree of versatility. As far as I could find, Seiko currently makes no fluted bezel watches, akin to most Datejusts, so these will have to pose as alternatives to the smooth bezel Rolex's instead.
Seiko 5 SNK361
Seiko 5 SNK361 vs Rolex Oyster Perpetual
Arguably the best alternative to the Rolex Oyster line is the Seiko 5 SNK361. I've showcased this watch on the blog twice before, as it's awe-inspiring for the money. This classy budget offering uses the steel 01V0 case style, which is generally considered to be the most attractive in the Seiko 5 range; it has nice polished flanks and hugs the wrist well with no glaring gaps underneath. The prominent shoulders and high-shine bezel immediately make this look like the Oyster, which is topped off by the near-identical handset and the similar dial layout.
Size-wise, this is like the 36mm Datejust, with a 37mm diameter, a 41.8mm lug-to-lug, and a 10.6mm thickness. Of course, the level of finishing isn't nearly as good as the original, though the SNK361 does have a trick up its sleeve.
Across the dial is a spread of microscopic '5' badged crests punched into the surface. This creates an interesting texture that only emerges when the lighting is just right. There are a couple of more obvious differences between this and the Datejust, such as the repositioned 4 o'clock crown and the wider day-date window.
Still, you get a comparable yet unique on-wrist feeling with this Seiko, making it my go-to recommendation. It's not a boring carbon copy.
The entry-level, reliable Seiko 7S26 automatic movement is powering the watch, which you'll see a few times on this list. This model has lower water resistance than a Rolex, at just 3bar, so swimming is not recommended. Mineral glass is also the standard at this price point, so it's hardly surprising that the Seiko uses it instead of the more scratch-resistant (and slightly more expensive) sapphire crystal.
By default, you'll get the SNK361 on a steel bracelet. It's alright at best and is worth switching out if you can afford it, as it feels far cheaper than the watch it's attached to.
Seiko 5 SNXS79
Seiko 5 SNXS79 vs Rolex Oyster Perpetual
Widely considered the best cheap Rolex alternative, the Seiko 5 SNXS79 has achieved social media virality numerous times; a mere glance is enough to comprehend why. These really are a 'poor man's Rolex,' with an Oyster-like design in a budget package, from a well-respected brand. The markers here are carbon copies, with applied white rectangular strips that look just like those on the Rolex. The handset may as well have been ported from the Rolex stock images, and even the high-shine bezel gives that same dressy feel.
Out of all the watches on this list, this is comfortably the closest to what you'd call a 'homage' or 'clone' watch, where the design has been completely ripped from an existing model. As such, this range, which includes other colors with slightly differing codenames (SNXS77, SNXS75, SNXS73), is understandably popular.
That being said, it's only second place in my Oyster Perpetual alternatives category for a couple of reasons. While the on-paper specifications are identical to the SNK361, this watch falls short in finishing and wearability. Most of this is down to the case shape. The SNXS79 uses the rudimentary 0480 case, which has a very basic glossy finish and skinny, taperless sides that leave the back of the watch bulging out in an unsightly fashion. This shape results in a 'hovering' effect on the wrist due to the gaps beneath the lugs. During wear, the SNXS79 doesn't look or feel as seamless as the SNK361.
Additionally, the stock bracelet here is worse quality than that on the SNK361, and its brushed finish doesn't match the glossy case whatsoever. It looks like it's been taken from a completely different watch, which sucks.
The SNXS79 still looks better than the vast majority of watches in its price range and is a praiseworthy pickup; I'd just recommend taking a look at the SNK300 series first if it's available in your country.
Seiko 5 Sports SNXS SRPK
Seiko SRPK87 vs Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36
Designed to replace the outgoing SNXS line, the SRPK series is an overhauled Oyster Perpetual-like dress watch that boasts improved finishing, higher water resistance, and an improved 4R36 movement. The original SNXS does have its problems, and the SRPK fixes most of those, at the cost of...well, cost. It is considerably more expensive, albeit not close to the price of the Rolex models.
All three launch models ship with faux-patina luminescence, which does stray from the OP a little. Nevertheless, the overall aesthetic is still strikingly similar, with the Seiko arguably boasting a cleaner, clutter-free arrangement thanks to the reduced amount of text.
Seiko 5 SNXL72
Seiko 5 SNXL72 vs Rolex Day-Date (Smooth Bezel)
A quick nod goes to the SNXL72. For the most part, this gold-cased watch is the same as the SNXS79. Despite the tone, it's still constructed of stainless steel; the only real difference is the dial. While the arrangement is the same, the lumed rectangles are substituted for glossy bars, with small luminescent pips around the circumference.
The main selling point here is the dial. There's a subtle grid-like pattern that disappears at certain angles, and it's probably less divisive than that on the SNK361, despite not being as precise. If you're after some budget bling, the SNXL is worth considering.
Seiko SUR300 & SUR 400 Series
Seiko SUR309 vs Rolex Oyster Perpetual
The most viable Datejust alternatives for those requiring quartz-level precision are the little-known Seiko SUR300 and SUR400 series. While these haven't yet made it onto the Ben's Watch Club blog, I've had two of these on hand behind the scenes; the white SUR457P1 and the black SUR319P1.
Let's get the obvious out of the way; these watches have dauphine hands, which don't match the baton pointers of the dressier Rolex models. Still, the rest of the package makes these possibly more tempting than many of the automatic offerings. Firstly, these have far better bracelets. Unlike those fitted to the Seiko 5s, these have solid links outside of the end links, and don't jangle around, providing a more premium feel.
Additionally, thanks to the quartz movement, these watches are incredibly slim, usually around 30% slimmer than the mechanical watches mentioned earlier. This reduced bulk correlates with reduced weight, making them easy wearers. In fact, the SUR300 lineup comes in a standard 40.2mm size and a more diminutive 35mm, which is perfect for especially narrow wrists. The SUR400s are variants on the 40.2mm sized options but with alternative dial arrangements and colors.
Pleasingly, they also offer a much higher 10bar water resistance rating, meaning they're suitable for aquatic action and high-pressure environments.
Unfortunately, these aren't solar-powered, which I feel would have been an intuitive fit, and pricing is comparable to some of the newly introduced Seiko 5 watches, meaning they're not as good value. Of course, the quartz movements will provide great accuracy nonetheless.
Both models' case shapes are similar to the Rolex Oyster Perpetual or Milgauss, with slightly shorter lugs and a marginally narrower bezel. The bracelet style is also different, with the Seiko using female end links, allowing for greater flexibility at the cost of Rolex synonymity.
Recently, titanium-cased versions were added to the catalog. These are otherwise the same, though you'll notice the duller grey finish, which strays from the Rolex aesthetic.
SEIKO WATCHES THAT LOOK LIKE THE ROLEX AIR KING
The modern iterations of the Rolex Air King are relations of the Datejust, with numbers in place of standard hour markers. Here are some Seiko-branded alternatives you've never considered.
Seiko 5 SNK381
Seiko 5 SNK381 vs Rolex Air King
The SNK381 is a cousin of the earlier-mentioned SNK361. It has the same case, bracelet, and movement but an abstract dial, with attractive applied numbers for easy reading. The handset is a hybrid leaf/baton style, with a lollipop seconds hand that emulates that on the Air King. At a glance, its black and white colorway makes the SNK381 look much like the most popular version of the Air King, only lacking the green Rolex detailing.
As with the SNK361, the 381 maintains the guardless Oyster-style case, bezel, and an exhibition rear, allowing you to see the automatic 7S26 movement inside, a novel feature for first-time watch buyers.
Admittedly, this watch is a few millimeters smaller than the original, so it doesn't provide a 1:1 on-wrist experience. At 37mm and with a short lug-to-lug, the SNK381 provides more of a mid-century look. Unlike the SNK361, this version lacks the eccentric dial texturing, though the applied sections do look more premium and improve legibility significantly; these Seiko 5s aren't known for having powerful low-light performance, so this really helps.
Seiko Alba AQPJ402
Seiko Alba AQPJ402 vs Rolex Air King
Alba is a Japan-exclusive Seiko sub-brand that Western shoppers can still get their hands on via international distributors such as Discovery Japan. In many ways, the Alba AQPJ402 is akin to the budget field watches from Lorus (another brand under the Seiko umbrella) that I previously reviewed, with many of the same performance characteristics and even similar visuals. The black is definitely the version to go for, not just because it has visuals that are closer to the Rolex Air King, but also because it has two distinct performance advantages over the near-identical Alba AQPK401. It has double the water resistance and titanium construction, as opposed to brass.
As with any entry-level watch, this one isn’t the best-built piece, but it is good for the money. Just be aware that the titanium case will look dimmer in the flesh!
Seiko 5 SNK617
Seiko 5 SNK617 vs Rolex Air King
A funkier alternative comes by way of the SNK617. Unlike most other options, this one implements 5-minute interval numbers at the perimeter, as seen on the original Air King. It's also got a similar fixed bezel side profile, though you'll notice that the upper is brushed, compared to the polished surfaces of the Rolex.
The SNK617 is an integrated bracelet watch, meaning the bracelet is almost baked into the watch's design. Recently, watches like the Tissot PRX have seen huge success with this trendy approach, which provides a sportier vibe. The SNK617 features a bracelet that attaches via a small central link, meaning you aren't able to use the majority of third-party straps, which is somewhat frustrating as the stock bracelet's quality isn't comparable to the likes of the PRX.
SEIKO WATCHES THAT LOOK LIKE THE ROLEX EXPLORER
The Rolex Explorer is often touted as the ultimate 'one watch collection'; a single timepiece that effortlessly serves you in any scenario, however casual or formal. Can Seiko serve up their own all-rounder? I'll let you decide after you've seen my suggestions.
Seiko SNK393
Seiko 5 SNK393 vs Rolex Explorer
As I see it, there are two obvious Seiko alternatives to the Explorer and a third, more adventurous option. The first of these is the SNK393. The 0V10 case returns due to its similarities to these solid-bezel Rolex models; surprise, surprise! This shell provides one of the finest profiles on the low-end market, with a nice brushed upper and two-step polished sizes. As expected, you get 3bar splash resistance and a Hardlex hardened mineral crystal on the top.
Of course, it's the dial we're fussed about here. Does it look like the Rolex Explorer? Well, yeah, this watch oozes it, with a matching minimalist chapter ring and numbering presented in an equally squat font style. The positioning is slightly different, with the large numbers only sitting at 12 and 6 and a date wheel taking up the spot at 3. Still, the hands are lookalikes (outside of the Rolex signature Mercedes icon), and the overall proportions are absolutely on-point.
Seiko clutched up with a black date window, which better integrates than the harshly contrasting white wheels usually found on cheaper watches. If you're after an alternative to the 36mm Explorer specifically, then this 37mm model is my pick. It also has standardized lugs, so you are able to switch the strap, unlike the next pick on this list.
Seiko 5 SNK623
Seiko 5 SNK623 vs Rolex Explorer
Upon first impressions, the often more affordable SNK623 looks even more like the Rolex Explorer, with a polished steel case, numbers at 6, 9 and 12, along with a similarly styled bracelet. Even the indexes are squared-off like the Rolex. It's affordable, too, normally available for around a mere $100.
So what gives? Why isn't this my obvious number-one pick for an Explorer substitute? Well, this watch does have some elements that are pretty different, as well as a frustrating flaw.
At the bottom center, you'll notice a wide cutout that's more Day-Date than Explorer. This full day-of-the-week display window is handy but unfamiliar for those simply after an Explorer lookalike. Additionally, the dauphine handset doesn't match the original, nor is the smaller date window on the right side. While those are cosmetic differences, open to personal preference, the proprietary end links on the watch are objectively annoying. These restrict the watch to the default band (identical to the SNK617 above), which isn't decent by any stretch of the imagination.
I'd say if the SNK393 is within your budget, that's the one to go for, but if the 623 is significantly cheaper, it's not a bad option either.
Seiko 5 SNKE63/SNKE61/SNKE59/SNKE57
Seiko 5 SNKE63 vs Rolex Explorer
An equally viable, albeit harder-to-come-by alternative is the SNKE63. This little-known speciality piece is aesthetically a rounded version of the Explorer design, with a circular bezel and lugs that jut out more sharply.
It also has a marginally different handset, with slim leaf hands taking the place of the Rolex originals. Still, the guys at Seiko clearly had the Explorer in mind when crafting this, as is evident from the identically styled hour markers and similarly chunky numbers. The black SNKE63 also has the same color scheme, though the white SNKE57 offers a unique whitewashed look, akin to a hybrid of the Explorer I and Explorer II.
Some other versions are available, including the blue SNKE61, which stray from the traditional Explorer colorways.
As this is another member of the fabled Seiko 5 range, it has the expected 7S26 automatic movement, steel construction, and a Hardlex crystal. This model perhaps has the most symmetrical appearance on the list; the circular shape allows the crown to recede the whole way.
SEIKO WATCHES THAT LOOK LIKE THE ROLEX DAYTONA
The Rolex Daytona has a solid claim to the title 'world's most desirable chronograph.' Alongside the Omega Speedmaster, the Daytona is an iconic time measurer with beautiful panda motorsport theming. Here are some Seiko-branded alternatives that provide the same vibe for a more attainable cost.
Seiko Prospex Speedtimer SSC813P1
Seiko Prospex Speedtimer SSC813P1 vs Rolex Daytona
The best Rolex Daytona alternative is undoubtedly the Seiko Speedtimer SSC813P1. This member of the premium Prospex line was only recently released and has proven to be an instant hit, primarily due to its obvious resemblance to the Rolex chronograph, leading to many people quickly coining it the "Seitona."
At around $700, it's hardly a budget watch, though it's also not a lazy copy-and-paste job. While it shares the same complexion as the Rolex, its subdials are filled black, and the markers are a squarer shape. If anything, it looks more like a cross between the stereotypical white Daytona and the black sub-dialed Paul Newman special edition.
The black bezel is really similar, though the hands are more of a sword shape. To be truthful, the case finishing here is mediocre for the money, with rather basic circular brushing on the upper and polished sides. Despite being a world away from those fitted on cheap Seiko 5s, the bracelet doesn't seamlessly integrate with the case, which is a shame.
There is at least a classy domed sapphire crystal and a highly functional solar movement, which will keep the watch infinitely powered if worn regularly.
At 39mm wide, this timepiece is uncharacteristically wearable for a chronograph, so it easily suits various wrist sizes. Due to the chunky case, it fits most comparably to the 40mm Daytona.
Seiko Spirit SBTR0 Series
Seiko SBTR013 vs Rolex Daytona
This Japan-exclusive Seiko range is clearly inspired by the Rolex Daytona, with a design even closer than that of the more expensive Prospex chronograph (luckily, you can still grab one). Seiko isn’t even trying to hide the resemblance, with a near-identical case shape, dial, and handset.
You’re best off buying this one directly from Discovery Japan, where it’s available pretty cheap and even in many of the same colors as the Rolex (though shipping will take a little while). Performance-wise, it’s a very run-of-the-mill quartz chronograph, with fair accuracy and a high 10 bar water resistance. The only real design difference between this and the Daytona is the raised chapter ring, though you’d be hard-pressed to notice at a glance.
Seiko 'Macchina Sportiva' SSC769P1
Seiko SSC769P1 vs Rolex Daytona
A budget alternative comes in the form of the SSC769P1.
Out of the two Seiko chronographs here, I'd say this is the better value choice. It may not match the Daytona as closely as the Prospex Speedtimer; however, this 'Macchina Sportiva' can be purchased for far less, despite performing just as well.
It's got more of an exclusive design, with a hexagonal honeycomb textured dial and a six-sided subdial on the left side, though the classic black-and-white color scheme remains. Rather than a fixed outer tachymeter bezel, the Macchina Sportiva has this information occupying an inner rehaut ring, akin to the Zenith El Primero.
Surprisingly, for under $300, the case finishing is more intricate than the Speedtimer, with twisting Omega-like lugs and alternating brushed and polished sections that catch the light much more pleasingly. It's stainless steel too, so it should last just fine in the long run.
No corners are cut on the crystal. Indeed Seiko has used a flat sapphire crystal instead of the lower-tier Hardlex that's common at this price point. The SSC769P1 even has a solar Seiko V176 movement, which performs similarly to the V192 in the Speedtimer.
Oddly, the bracelet on this piece, while hardly a game-changer, matches the case tone better than that on the Prospex. Water resistance is substantial, too, at 100m.
While this one certainly has some Italian flair, it still poses as a unique Rolex alternative, if you can't afford the Daytona.
SEIKO WATCHES THAT LOOK LIKE THE ROLEX YACHT-MASTER
Aesthetically, the Rolex Yacht-Master is like a flashier version of the Submariner, usually sporting a matte bezel and retailing at a higher price. I've discovered several specific Seiko releases that replicate the look to varying extents. Most are variants of the SRP '5KX' dive watch, mentioned earlier as a submariner alternative.
Seiko 5 SRPE71
Seiko 5 SRPE71 vs Rolex Yacht-Master Platinum
The SRPE71 is the '5KX' that's perhaps the closest to the typical silver Yacht-Master. The bezel is matte, with a comparable bumpy texture and the dial even has a sunburst that looks just like the original. As with the previous Seiko 5 divers, the markers are like rounded versions of those used on the Rolex divers, making them a great substitute.
At 42.5mm in diameter, this is an ideal option for those desiring the feel of the 40 or 42mm Yacht-Master models; this Seiko has a shorter lug to lug than the 42mm Rolex, meaning it fits somewhere between the two on the wrist.
This model has a rather standard spec sheet, and while it shares some commonalities with the Rolex, the crystal is an inferior Hardlex hardened mineral crystal. The bracelet isn't nearly as versatile either. The bezel, despite the similarities, has a slightly different font style and isn't bidirectional like that on the Yacht-Master. Still, out of the box, this model is probably the closest you can get and is a decent watch in its own right, with improved finishing and movement performance versus last-generation Seiko dive watches.
Seiko 5 SRPG61
Seiko 5 SRPG61 vs Rolex Yacht-Master
This watch is identical to the SRPE71 listed above, only with a band change and some cosmetic differences. This version has a mildly tumbled case, which results in a slightly less shiny look. The blasted bezel has a more traditional layout and typeface, while the dial has a moon-like surface with more creamy tones.
The SRPG61 is probably the next closest option to the traditional silver Yacht-Master if you can't find the SRPE71; it also should be lower-priced at most retailers, as it uses a pass-through strap rather than a steel bracelet.
Seiko 5 SRPD73
Seiko 5 SRPD73 vs Rolex Yacht-Master 42
The SRPD73 is another Seiko 5, only this time, its black colorway makes it an ideal substitute for the darker versions of the Yacht-Master.
It has the same 100m of water resistance, steel case, and 4R36 movement as its contemporaries and is arguably much better looking than the two above. This time it comes with a rubber strap, representative of that provided with the darker-toned Rolexes.
Seiko Prospex SNE586
Seiko Prospex SNE586 vs Rolex Yacht-Master 40
A higher-quality alternative comes in the form of the Prospex SNE586. The silver version of this watch, codenamed SNE57, was briefly featured in our dive watches for small wrists roundup due to its compact proportions.
The SNE586 has a more fashion-forward appearance, with a black and rose-gold design that looks much like the matching Rolex Yacht-Master. This may not have a matt all-black bezel, though the resemblance is still uncanny, thanks to the slick case that boasts long lugs akin to those on the Rolex.
At just 11.3mm in thickness, this watch is the slimmest dive watch on this list, primarily thanks to the tiny solar quartz movement that allows the case to be cut down. You'll gain extra accuracy, but you lose the second hand sweep that the Rolex offers.
The handset is different, though at least this piece has a competitive 200m of water resistance, which outdoes the cheaper Seiko 5 divers.
At close to $600, I'm unsure that this watch is great value, though it certainly deserves a spot on this niche list.
SEIKO WATCHES THAT LOOK LIKE THE ROLEX GMT-MASTER II
The GMT Master is the Rolex with an additional hand, allowing the user to track time in a secondary time zone. This proves especially useful for frequent travelers or those needing to monitor the time internationally. Fortunately, Seiko recently released the perfect alternative for those on a budget.
Seiko 5 Sports SSK GMT
Seiko 5 SSK003 vs Rolex GMT-Master II
The SSK range is the latest iteration of SKX replacements, offering GMT functionality via an extra hand and a 24-hour bezel.
As you can probably tell from the image, this is once more a version of the '5KX' range, as the case and general configuration are the same.
Enabling the additional complication is the caliber 4R34, a modified 4R36 automatic, as used in many other watches. Is it worth spending over $100 more on this versus the standard dive-style model? I guess it depends on how much you want a watch that looks like the GMT Master. The SSK is closer aesthetically, thanks to the bezel layout and color options you can choose from, which includes black, blue, and orange.
SEIKO WATCHES THAT LOOK LIKE THE ROLEX EXPLORER II
Seiko SSK020 Series
Seiko SSK023 vs Rolex Explorer II
The Rolex Explorer II is a tough watch to find alternatives for, due to its compact dial, monochromatic colorway, and steel bezel. Probably the closest match is the Seiko SSK020 series, which comprises several field-style GMT watches that give you a comparable on-wrist experience.
These Seikos do have some obvious differences, including numbers in place of the diver-style markers found on the Explorer II. Additionally, they are slightly smaller than the current-gen Rolex equivalents, with a sub-40mm diameter.
There’s also a limited edition white dial variant of the Seiko, codenamed SBSC009, although that one is very difficult to find for non-scalper prices; I’d avoid it.
Are the new Seiko 5s actually worse than the models they replaced? Check out our summary to find out whether it's worth splashing the extra or saving a buck while you still can.