Feature: 5 Rolex Daytona alternatives that cost less than you think
The Rolex Daytona is one of the most recognisable watches out there from possibly the most popular watch brand of our time. Yet with all the hype comes hefty price tags and waitlists to match. If you’d rather avoid the queue and the bank-busting prices for this iconic model, consider these five alternatives that are as easy on your wallet as they are on your eyes.
TAG Heuer Carrera CV2010.FC6233
TAG Heuer’s Carrera is one alternative which deserves as much respect as the Rolex Daytona itself, thanks to its rich history in the motorsport scene, in which it still thrives. This model features an almost all-black appearance, with white details on the three chronograph counters, hour markers and tachymetric bezel, whereas the racing-style laser-cut black leather strap adds an extra hint of sporty appeal.
Tudor Black Bay M79360N-0002
As Rolex’s sister brand, Tudor makes an obvious choice for a dedicated Rolex alternative list. That said, this Black Bay is worthy of some attention regardless of its affiliation with the Crown. Featuring a classic “Panda” dial via the two black chronograph subdials on the white dial and a black tachymetric bezel, this is a classic example of a vintage-cool racing-inspired chronograph—just like the Daytona.
Zenith El Primero 03.2041.4052/69.C496
Zenith and Rolex share a fabled past thanks to the Crown relying on a Zenith movement for its Daytona for over a decade. In fact, the Daytona was the last Rolex model to use a movement that wasn’t made in-house, the calibre 4030—based on the El Primero 400. This Zenith features a dial with three slightly overlaid counters in light and dark grey and navy-blue. Powering this piece is the El Primero 4052 B movement which features a central seconds hand making one rotation every ten seconds.
Longines Heritage Avigation L2.816.1.93.2
Longines is a brand associated with great quality at affordable prices and this Heritage Avigation model is no different. Featuring a titanium case, blue gradient dial with three chronograph counters and faux-lumed Arabic numerals—this is one highly legible piece that’s perfect for travelling through the sky at speed, as opposed to the racetrack. Either way, this Longines makes a cool option for those after a Daytona lookalike, regardless of its aviation roots.
Breitling Premier B01 AB0118
This “Panda” dial Breitling might have one less subdial than the Daytona but it does have a date window, which the Daytona chooses to omit. Besides that, it gives the Rolex a run for its money, with the same 100-metre water resistance and a 70-hour power reserve—a couple of hours less than the Daytona’s. The automatic movement is also a COSC-certified chronometer and can be viewed through the caseback.
Shop pre-owned TAG Heuer watches
Shop pre-owned Longines watches
