Feature: 7 Affordable Alternatives To The Rolex Explorer
Like most Rolex watches, the Explorer is a model that’s not only highly sought-after but has an impressive history of record-breaking feats in tough terrains. However, if it’s on your wish-list but is a little out of your budget, then look no further! We’ve rounded up a selection of top watches below that look pretty similar to the Explorer but cost a hell of a lot less.
Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 150m
Our first point of call is Rolex’s biggest rival, Omega. The Seamaster collection is a classic within Omega’s catalogue and the Aqua Terra is a popular update to it. With its pared-down appearance that features a steel case and bracelet, paired here with a plain black dial with easy-to-read display, this is a perfect watch for everyday wear and one that’s easy on your wallet.
Grand Seiko Heritage Collection SBGH205
Straight from Grand Seiko, Japan’s most famed and beloved watchmaker, this super-sleek piece from its Heritage Collection makes a perfect dupe to the Rolex Explorer—plus, it allows you venture outside of traditional Swiss watchmaking. Again, this piece boasts an all-steel case and bracelet, as well as the automatic GS calibre 9S85, which you can admire in all its glory thanks to the open caseback—something you won’t find on a Rolex Explorer!
Ball Engineer II NM2026C-S4CAJ-BK
With the tagline “accuracy under adverse conditions” it’s apt that a Ball timepiece has found itself on a list devoted to great alternatives to the Rolex Explorer—a watch synonymous with the first successful Mount Everest expedition. This Engineer II model from Ball features those striking Arabic numerals at 12, 6 and 9 o’clock, with a handy date window at 3 o’clock and an all-steel exterior, just like the Explorer.
TAG Heuer Formula 1 WAZ2113.BA0875
Another popular Swiss watchmaker to offer a timepiece that’s similar to the Explorer is TAG Heuer. Part of the popular Tag Heuer Formula 1 line, this robust-looking piece offers all the hallmarks you’d expect: it’s stainless steel, has a black dial and bold Arabic numerals at 12 and 6 o’clock. However, this is the only piece to have a numbered bezel, adding a dash of the Explorer II to the watch—it’s the best of both worlds!
Longines Conquest L3.726.4.96.9
Longines came up trumps with this handsome 43mm model with quartz movement, and it’ll certainly save you some pennies, costing £500 pre-owned. This watch differs to the rest on this list thanks to its navy-blue tough rubber strap and blue dial. It still remains close to the Explorer, though, thanks to the pared-down aesthetic and combination of Arabic numerals and baton indices. All in all, this is a good-looking affordable watch from one of the most respected and affordable luxury Swiss watchmakers.
Tudor Ranger
An obvious choice for any Rolex alternative is Tudor, thanks to the brand’s close ties to the almighty Crown. The Ranger follows many of the aesthetic codes of the Explorer including legible Arabic numerals at 12, 3, 6 and 9 o’clock, making it an ideal choice. It’s also available on a range of straps including fabric, hybrid rubber and leather and steel bracelets.
Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical 42mm
Described by Hamilton as the “original soldier’s watch”, the Khaki Field is now available with an updated case size of 42mm, ideal for fans of larger watches. Featuring a sandblasted stainless-steel case and 12 and 24-hour scales all in Arabic numerals, this is a super legible piece. At £755 brand-new, this is a superb affordable alternative to the Explorer.
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