Best Omega Seamaster Alternatives- 20 Budget Finds To Scratch That Itch
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A favorite of 007 himself, the Omega Seamaster line started production way back in 1948. This legendary watch range, now constituted primarily of rotating bezel dive watches, has recently increased in popularity, given some of the dubious 'wait list' tactics implemented by rival luxury brands.
With higher demand comes higher prices. While not nearly as inflated as the likes of Rolex, Omega has nonetheless been raising RRPs, partially due to the global economic downturn.
Unfortunately, this makes the Omega Seamaster a pipe dream for those of us with a modest budget. If you're like me and unwilling to part with so much dough, but desire the look of the Seamaster, then you're in the right place. I've tracked down all the best affordable Omega Seamaster alternatives that fill that void for a fraction of the cost. These picks are from proven brands I have hands-on experience with; no junk here!
By no means am I suggesting these watches have build quality or finishing that rivals a four or five-figure Omega! However, they scratch that itch, and your friends will be none the wiser.
Best Omega Seamaster Alternatives - Quartz
Not a fan of mechanical movements? This first section is a collection of my recommended quartz and solar quartz options for improved accuracy and reduced maintenance.
Casio MTP-S110
I reviewed this highly-capable dive-style watch late last year. As far as budget alternatives to the Seamaster go, this Casio MTP-S110 is as good as they come. Unlike some mentioned later in this list, this isn't a lazy copy-and-paste job. Instead, it showcases several unique traits while maintaining enough Seamaster-esque design cues to remain an exciting alternative.
While it looks giant on paper, the 43.5mm diameter is artificially boosted by the left side bulge, designed to make the watch more symmetrical from above; in reality, it fits just like a 41mm watch, which is coincidentally the most popular Seamaster size.
Within, this model packs a solar quartz movement, which permits convenient recharging and a surprisingly slim 11mm case. It's unexpectedly sleek on the wrist, especially for a dive watch, and this feeling is matched by the attractive dial. I wouldn't say Casio is known for making good-looking watches, but the grey sunburst on the model I tried was very classy for a $100 watch.
The applied markers are also some of the best executed I've seen on any affordable watch. Each has a glossy surround that reflects the light, while those at 6 and 9 perfectly match the cutaway shape within the watch hands. Those skeletonized hands aren't just cleverly designed; they also bear a strong resemblence to those on the Omega Seamaster.
Overall, this is a great budget alternative, but it's not without its downsides. For starters, the bezel is fixed, and the water resistance is a lesser 100m; indicating that this watch is more of a dive-style watch than a true diver. Also, this Casio only comes fitted on a resin band at the time of writing, so you'll need a third-party 22mm bracelet if you want to match the luxury look properly. Fortunately, this watch is now available in a small selection of colors, so you're likely to find one that suits your preference.
Specifications
Diameter: 43.5mm (including bulge)
Lug to lug: 50.7mm
Thickness: 11mm
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Crystal: Mineral
Water Resistance: 100m
Movement: Solar Quartz
Citizen BN0200-56E
When conducting research for this article, I didn't expect to find a Citizen Promaster that perfectly fitted the bill. In some ways, the BN0200-56E looks like a futuristic version of the Omega Seamaster. The skeletonized handset and baton indexes are familiar, though the bezel and case have a more modern, angular profile that makes it look more space-age.
Our contributor Wes has owned several Promasters over the years, while I've tested the automatic Promaster and two 'Super Titanium' watches. This material is a form of specially treated titanium carbide, which makes it incredibly strong and scratch resistant at a fraction of the weight of stainless steel.
This diver model is much of the same, with a matte finish, making it best tailored for casual wear. It's got the expected screw-down crown and 200m of water resistance. Like most Citizen watches in this price range, it also packs in the Eco-Drive solar functionality, usually regarded as the best in the industry. Many units manufactured in the 1990s are still running without a cell change.
I have previously had cosmetic alignment issues with some Citizen watches. I'd recommend double-checking your watch upon receipt to ensure yours is perfect, especially when you're spending around $350.
Specifications
Diameter: 44mm
Lug to lug: 22mm
Thickness: 12.1mm
Case Material: Citizen Super Titanium
Crystal: Sapphire
Water Resistance: 200m
Movement: Citizen Eco-Drive Solar Quartz
Accurist 7291
Accurist are a particularly popular brand in the UK. I posted an article a few months ago documenting their peculiar history and assessing the quality of their watches. I'd go so far as to say they're one of the best-constructed affordable watch brands available for purchase in Europe, easily surpassing the likes of Sekonda and Stuhrling, and while their designs aren't anything to write home about, they do a great job of providing a specific look for a small amount of change.
The 7291 sports watch takes many cues from the Omega Seamaster, despite looking rather different from a glance. It not only has the signature wavy dial but also implements the scalloped bezel and famous twisted lugs; two hallmarks of Omega watches. As one of the lowest-cost watches here, it's no surprise that the case finishing and bracelet are far less remarkable, however the ratcheting bezel is fully functional, and the watch maintains a reliable 100m of water resistance when the crown is secured. This means you can swim with the 7291, even if full-on scuba diving is off the table.
At 42mm, this is similar in size to most Seamasters, though the quartz movement does give it the edge in thickness at just over 11mm. If you're on a tight budget, there's another Accurist coming up later, so keep your eyes peeled for that one!
Specifications
Diameter: 42mm
Thickness: 11.2mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: MineralWater Resistance: 100m
Movement: Miyota Quartz
Rotary Aquaspeed
While it doesn't quite fit into the 'clone' category featured later in this list, the Rotary Aquaspeed is close to the threshold. It's clearly heavily inspired by the Omega Seamaster, with a design that includes a wavy dial texture, a skeletonized handset, and even an analogous selection of colors. Nevertheless, this budget alternative does stray in some areas, leaving a somewhat distinct overall look.
Despite being such a close match, this watch isn't higher on the list because it appears to have been discontinued. At present, it's very tough to track this one down. While Rotary is a market leader in countries like the UK, I still wouldn't recommend paying through the nose to obtain this model; used eBay models and patience are probably your best allies if you want to pick up the Aquaspeed.
Specifications
Diameter: 42mm
Thickness: 11.2mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: SapphireWater Resistance: 100m
Movement: Miyota Quartz
Best Omega Seamaster Alternatives – Automatic/Mechanical
Hate the quartz tick or prefer the weighty feel that a mechanical movement provides? This section rounds up the best automatic Omega Seamaster alternatives that I've tried, to tickle your fancy.
Orient Ray 2
The Orient Ray 2 is aesthetically very similar to the Omega Seamaster. Outside of the hallmark twisted lugs, the case shape is virtually identical, and the dial takes up a similar percentage of the watch's width.
Size-wise, the Ray is equally promising, with a 41.5mm diameter and 47mm lug to lug that make it wear only marginally smaller than most Seamasters.
Unlike other similarly priced offerings from Casio, this Orient is often available to purchase with a steel bracelet to complete the full sports watch package.
Orient is one of the most beloved lower-end watch brands, offering absurd value for money and in-house movements. The automatic F6922 powering this Orient has a slightly audible rotor but is otherwise riveting compared to the competition, who predominantly use quartz in the sub-$200 price bracket. I recently tested two Orient movements when reviewing their new 38mm Bambino range. They turned out to be the most accurate I've ever looked at, running at a remarkable 0 and +1 seconds per day, respectively. If that's anything to go off, you're in for a treat!
The Ray 2, and cosmetically different Mako 2, is made of stainless steel, has a proper ratcheting bezel, a diver-standard 200m of water resistance, and a mineral crystal. Those are excellent specifications for the money.
There's little to fault about the Ray 2. If I'm being picky, the case finishing isn't as good as some of the alternatives on this list, despite it feeling very durable. In addition, the design isn't especially distinctive. It's not bad looking, and I even mentioned how it looked better than I expected in my dive watch roundup post; it just doesn't particularly stand out from a visual standpoint.
Nevertheless, if you're after a reliable automatic tool watch that provides some Seamaster vibes, the Ray 2 is arguably the best value choice.
Specifications
Diameter: 41.5mm
Lug to lug: 47mm
Thickness: 13mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Mineral
Water Resistance: 200m
Movement: Orient Automatic F6922
Depth Charge Diver
After selling out rapidly upon release, the Depth Charge diver was the first release from WatchShop's in-house brand. The real manufacturer of these watches is a trade secret, though I was very impressed with the value when I reviewed the green version in mid-2021.
In terms of design, this timepiece feels like a hybrid between the regular Seamaster and the Planet Ocean, with an identical marker array to the former and an arrow hand not dissimilar from the latter. The highlights during my time with this watch were the super-bright luminescence and the outstanding case construction and finishing (for the $125 price I paid). While it's visually not as similar to the Omega as the Orient is, this Depth Charge feels more substantial than the Japanese offering when in the hands. It even features sapphire crystal, which is superior to the mineral that's most frequently found at this price point.
Despite having a design flaw, the bracelet was superior to most watches at double the price; you'll likely never need to change it.
Since my review of the 40mm original, they released 43mm watches in alternative colors at a slight price premium.
All Depth Charge divers contain Seiko automatic movements, which I think are better than the Miyota 8000s in alternative watches (quieter rotor, less prone to hand stuttering). The only reservation with Depth Charge watches is the logo, which I could take or leave. It could do with a modernized rework.
Keep an eye out for the frequent discount codes on the WatchShop website, which usually bring these watches down close to $130, a price that makes most Chinese AliExpress brands look far less tempting.
Specifications
Diameter: 41mm & 43mm
Lug to lug: Version dependent
Thickness: Version dependent
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water Resistance: 200m
Movement: Seiko NH35 Automatic
Phoibos 'Wave Master'
This Chinese brand has been featured before on Ben's Watch Club; I reviewed their well-built but ugly Apollo in early 2022. The brightly colored Wave Master is equally constructed but drops the highly experimental design in favor of something more familiar.
The confidently-designated 'Wave Master' might fail to reach the heights of the Omega Seamaster, but it's incredibly well kitted out for $300. This Phoibos wears its inspiration on its sleeve with a wavey dial that's clearly a homage to the timely Omega, yet this model is still among the more original on this list.
Not only does this have a completely different syringe handset, but the minimalist ceramic bezel is more akin to the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, with numbers at every 90 degrees. The case finishing here is a class above the lower-priced Orient, while the movement inside is the comparably-performing and ever-popular Seiko NH35A automatic.
Phoibos manages to match Omega in aquatic performance, with a 300m water resistance rating; though, admittedly, it's unlikely Phoibos has put their watches through as much official, rigorous testing. At 42mm and with a 48.5mm lug to lug, it's also a comparable size on the wrist.
There are a variety of unique colors and dial finishes available, my favorites being the green and black Wave Masters. As a relatively small Hong Kong brand, Phoibos doesn't have the gravitas of other companies on this list, so percentage-wise, the resale of these watches might not be as high. Still, the last few batches of this watch sold out very quickly, a testament to their quality. The lume is a particular highlight on Phoibos watches that's worth looking out for.
Specifications
Diameter: 42mm
Lug to lug: 48.5mm
Thickness: 14mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water Resistance: 300m
Movement: Seiko NH35A Automatic
Invicta Grand Diver
A giant Omega Seamaster alternative for those with bigger wrists, the Invicta Grand Diver leaves little off the table. At a whopping 47mm, this goliath dwarfs the Seamaster yet carries over much of the same styling, including the scalloped bezel (a rarity these days) and comparable colorways.
The smaller Invicta Pro Diver is renowned as one of the best sub-$100 dive watches; I reviewed it towards the beginning of Ben's Watch Club and was pretty impressed with the performance, despite the questionable case engraving. The Grand Diver is a pretty viable option for those looking for a huge watch for not a huge step up in price over the standard Pro Diver range.
This piece has all the specifications you'd expect, such as complete steel construction, hardened mineral crystal, good luminescence, and an Omega-matching 300m water resistance level. Within is, yet again, the NH35A, like in the Phoibos Wave Master.
Unlike the standard Pro Diver, which is a Rolex Submariner rip-off, this Grand Diver is more original, with striking lance-like hands that give it a much more aggressive appearance. As with its smaller brother, I'm not too keen on the crown-side case engraving, though the value here is undeniable.
Specifications
Diameter: 47mm
Lug to lug: 55.3mm
Thickness: 14.4mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Mineral
Water Resistance: 300m
Movement: Seiko NH35A
Vostok (Note: Russian Brand)
I've featured the venerable Vostok Amphibia on this blog before in one of our best dive watch roundups. These watches have sketchy cosmetic quality control but have legendary water resistance, with some units achieving insane scores of up to 80bar during testing, far higher than the 20bar assigned designation.
These are some of the lowest-cost original watches with in-house mechanical movements, which has earned them a cult following over the years. Many avid collectors own dozens of these moddable divers. While these are quirky, cool watches with a wide variety of designs and colors, they are also made in Russia. Given the current conflict, this makes the Amphibia a controversial and hard-to-obtain option, with some not wanting to buy Russian produce – I'll leave that decision up to you; I'll focus on the build quality. Used eBay units may be a viable option.
These are steel watches, though the finishing is barebones, and the metal bracelets that come with some versions are rubbish. Still, many of these bear a strong resemblance to the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean, with the arrow hour hand and number arrangement. Those fitted with the '120' case style are probably most similar to the Seamaster and have a similar 41mm size.
Specifications
Diameter: Version dependent
Lug to lug: Version dependent
Thickness: Version dependent
Case Material: Stainless steel or Chromed brass, version dependent
Crystal: Domed acrylic
Water Resistance: 200m+
Movement: Vostok mechanical or automatic, version dependent
Best Omega Seamaster 'Homages'
Homages, or 'clones' as I call them, are watches that copy famous designs almost 1:1, providing a near-identical look other than the logo; most of which are made in China. I made my thoughts about these watches clear in my 'homage watches explained' article, which you can read here. In short, I'm not keen on brands blatantly copying and profiting off the designs of others while labeling them a 'homage.' Still, if your guilt threshold is higher than mine, here are some Omega Seamaster copies that provide the exact look without technically being counterfeit.
Pagani Design
Pagani Design is one of the OGs in the homage watch space. They've been copying a wide range of the most famous watch designs for years and go by the brand name 'Pagrne Design' in some territories due to trademark disputes.
I've reviewed several of their watches before, and while they do have a few original designs, unsurprisingly, the clones are their best-sellers. When it comes to Omega-likes, they have direct copies of the regular Seamaster, as well as the more expensive 007 and Planet Ocean ranges. All are available for around $90-$160, astoundingly low prices for steel automatics with sapphire crystal.
Of course, there are caveats outside of the stolen look. While the case finishing and construction are quite good on these, they tend to fall short on water performance and quality control. The best place to purchase these watches is either via the Pagani Design website or AliExpress, both of which have extended delivery times. You don't have to wait months these days like you used to with Chinese imports, though it's hardly speedy service.
Unlike other Pagani Design watches, these have lumed bezels that perform reasonably well.
Pagani Design Regular Seamaster Clone Specifications
Diameter: 42mm
Lug to lug: 49mm
Thickness: 14mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water Resistance: 200m
Movement: Seiko NH35A Automatic
San Martin
Often considered the premiere homage watch manufacturer, San Martin has received a great deal of hype in recent years due to their stunning level of finishing. I've reviewed a variety of San Martin watches over the past 18 months, and while one had a movement issue (primarily Miyota's fault), the rest blew me away. It's easily the best value watch brand from a bang-for-the-buck standpoint, easily surpassing watchmakers like Timex, Seiko, Orient, and Citizen (no joke). These exceed Pagani Design with better QC but command a higher price tag as a result.
While San Martin has tried to branch out with some original designs, they continue to produce unashamed rip-offs of the big brands, including Omega. Like Pagani, they offer duplicates of almost the entire Omega catalog. The best place to purchase these is directly from AliExpress.
San Martin Regular Seamaster Clone Specifications
Diameter: 42mm
Lug to lug: 49mm
Thickness: 13.5mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water Resistance: 200m
Movement: Seiko Epson YN55 Automatic (unbranded Orient F6922)
AliExpress Phylida
Phylida is another highly-rated clone watch retailer. Given their popularity, I thought they were worth at least mentioning, though I haven't personally tried them (I don't feel the need to try yet another homage brand).
Some of these Phylidas include faux helium release valves at the top-left of the watch, faithful to the original Seamaster, unlike Pagani or San Martin, who tend to use more standard cases.
I've seen online that the luminescence is worse than some rival Chinese brands, though the logo is undoubtedly more visually pleasing. This brand is more Pagani-level than San Martin-level, and its pricing reflects that positioning.
You can purchase some of these with a choice of movements. I'd steer clear of the sketchy Miyota 8000 series movements at all costs; they have loud rotors and are prone to secondhand stuttering. The Seiko or even the Chinese-made options are better choices in most circumstances.
Phylida Regular Seamaster Clone Specifications
Diameter: 41mm
Lug to lug: 46.6mm
Thickness: 14.1mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Domed sapphire
Water Resistance: 200m
Movement: PT5000 Automatic (really good hi-beat)
Other clone-style homage brands worth considering that don't warrant their own section (due to being very similar to Pagani, San Martin & Phylida):
Best Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Alternatives
The Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean is a luxury range of higher-end chronometers that have paid homage to Omega's back catalog since 2005. These watches are known for their divergent design, which includes a bold arrow handset and more rectangular markers that provide more of a vintage aesthetic. Unfortunately, for budget buyers, these Planet Oceans are even more expensive! So, I have some alternatives worth pondering for those with more restrained spending habits.
Casio Duro MDV-106 (new colors)
The go-to Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean alternative has to be the Casio Duro MDV-106. This legendary dive watch has dominated the lower price brackets since its introduction and has garnered a cult following of its own due to its beastly build quality and astonishingly low retail price. For around $50, you get a diver that arguably rivals most at the $150 mark. It's featured numerous times on Ben's Watch Club due to its unrivaled price and performance.
If you're reading this, you'll be pleased to know that this outstanding Casio is a viable cheap substitute for the Planet Ocean, thanks to its similar color scheme and handset. While the markers are different, closer in design to something like the Submariner, the Duro does have a comparable bezel and second hand.
As you might imagine for a low-cost beater, this watch is quartz-powered. Surprisingly, it makes very few other sacrifices with a staggeringly well-finished steel case (considering the price tag), a screw-down crown, and a whopping 200m water resistance rating, enough for proper scuba diving!
The Casio MDV-106 only comes with a resin band and is better suited to large wrists, with a hefty 44mm case size and lengthy 49.4mm lug to lug. Last year, Casio released this watch in a variety of colors, including a gold-black version..
Specifications
Diameter: 44mm
Lug to lug: 49.4mm
Thickness: 12.3mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Mineral
Water Resistance: 200m
Movement: Casio Quartz
Casio MTD-1053D
If you're after a slightly more wearable alternative, the Casio MTD-1053, which I've also featured before, is a very viable substitute, often for even less money. To be transparent, this one is actually more of a Blancpain Fifty Fathoms lookalike, especially with the bezel and handset. Nevertheless, the dial layout is incredibly similar to the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean, which is most evident from the inclusion of the numbers at every 90 degrees and the stick-like markers, which are a close relative of the original.
This one matches the Duro in water resistance and comes on a steel band by default. While the case is made of stainless steel, the finishing is of a lower standard than its contemporary, with simplistic polished flanks and an uninspiring brushed upper with no chamfered edges. Still, it's mighty impressive that Casio has another great diver for such little change.
Specifications
Diameter: 40.5mm
Lug to lug: 44mm
Thickness: 12mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Mineral
Water Resistance: 200m
Movement: 2784 Casio Quartz
Seiko 5 Sports SRPD (5KX)
The SRPD lineup, nicknamed the 5KX, is a very popular, yet highly controversial set of divers from Seiko. This range was released following the discontinuation of the fan-favorite 'SKX' diver, which first hit the market in 1996.
These newer models look near-identical to the SKX, leaving fans wondering why the originals got terminated. While the SRPD has less water resistance than the SKX, it has far better finishing and an upgraded movement, with hacking and hand-winding capabilities. These days, especially given the scalper pricing for the SKX, this version is the common sense choice if you're after a Seiko-branded alternative to the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean.
It has thick hands, one of which is an arrow, and comes in a huge range of colors. At 42.5mm, it's more comparable to some of the larger Omega models, though the lug to lug is more compact. You can also get the very similar but bezel-less SRPE, which looks awfully like the Omega Aqua Terra.
As with all Seikos, the movement is in-house, and the case is stainless steel; this is one of the better quality watches on this list.
Specifications
Diameter: 42.5mm
Lug to lug: 46mm
Thickness: 13.4mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Hardlex (hardened mineral crystal)
Water Resistance: 100m
Movement: Seiko 4R36 Automatic
Accurist 7037
The Accurist 7037 was recently featured in my best watches under $75 roundup article, as it provides a Seiko-like aesthetic for far less money without making major sacrifices. It's a bargain bucket stainless steel watch that sometimes sells for under $40, with a working bezel, reasonable water resistance, and a fairly attractive dial to boot.
Like the previously mentioned Accurist, this watch doesn't house the flashiest case finishing, with a simple glossy surface throughout. The bracelet is also incredibly cheap, though so is the watch! I'd much rather have companies cut costs on the bands, which can be replaced, as opposed to the main body.
As a result of looking similar to the Seiko SKX, it also makes for a reasonable Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean alternative in a pinch, though the markers are once again more Submariner-like.
Specifications
Diameter: 44mm
Lug to lug: 52.5mm
Thickness: 12.4mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Domed mineral
Water Resistance: 100m
Movement: Miyota 2115 Quartz
Pulsar PG8000 Series
In some countries, the Pulsar PG8000 watches are less expensive than the Accurist, so could be the prime wallet-friendly choice on this list, depending on your location. The case finishing is better, though the bezel is fixed in place, and the crown is only push-pull rendering it incompatible for professional scuba divers.
Still, Pulsar watches are mainly fashion-oriented anyway, and this watch looks great without feeling quite as low quality as the Accurist 7037. Visually, it's almost identical too. A smaller 36mm variant is also harder to track down, but could be found if you're lucky.
Specifications
Diameter: 43mm
Lug to lug: 48mm
Thickness: 12mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Mineral
Water Resistance: 100m
Movement: Seiko Quartz
Certina DS Action Diver
I reviewed the Citizen DS Nautic as part of my best chronographs for small wrists article. That one was a decent well-constructed piece but did have some flaws. Mainly, the dial lacked excitement, and the crystal did affect legibility. As such, I ultimately ended up selling it.
The more conventional DS Action Diver is much more popular online, thanks to its punchier colors and vibrant sunburst dial. Certina, owned by Swiss giants Swatch, often makes use of interesting movements for their watches, and the DS Action Diver is no exception. Within is the same automatic Powermatic 80.611 movement, similar to those found in premium Tissot watches, which boasts a tantalizing 80-hour power reserve, meaning the watch can last for several days without needing to be wound (either manually or automatically).
This premium watch is among the priciest on this list. There's no doubt that a chunk of that cost is thanks to the 'Swiss-Made' label, though this watch does have additional impressive specifications, including Super-LumiNova luminescence, 300m of water resistance, and a solid link steel bracelet, with a milled clasp. Frustratingly, there are only two micro-adjustment holes, which could hinder the comfort depending on your arm size, though there is a pair of shortened links at the foot of the bracelet, somewhat alleviating the issue.
Available in both 38mm and 43mm sizes, this is a crowd-pleaser that's viable for most wrists. This looks far more like the Planet Ocean than the standard Seamaster, primarily due to the thick arrow hour hand; outside of the twisted lugs, which this model foregoes, the case shape is also similar.
Specifications
Diameter: 38mm or 43mm (version dependent)
Lug to lug: Version dependent
Thickness: Version dependent
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water Resistance: 300m
Movement: Automatic Powermatic 80.611 (80-hour power reserve)
Omega Seamaster No Time To Die 007 Special Edition Alternatives
The James Bond 007 special edition of the Omega Seamaster is hugely popular, thanks to featuring on Daniel Craig's wrist in the 2021 film No Time To Die. As a result, it's among the most expensive Omega watches, cracking on towards five figures. Fortunately, there are some viable alternatives to this specific model, which are listed below.
Certina DS Titanium
The best alternative to the Seamaster 007 is undoubtedly the Certina DS titanium. Design-wise, this is akin to the standard Certina DS Action diver range but has some key differences. The most obvious change is the case color, which is a direct consequence of the material choice. Just like the 007 Special Edition Omega, this Certina uses lightweight titanium, giving that characteristic gunmetal appearance. I have no doubt that the Certina design team had the Omega in mind when crafting this watch, as the color scheme is identical, even down to the faux patina lume.
This mattified option is equivalent to the larger DS Action Divers, at 43mm, meaning it's designed for larger wrists. It also has an improved clasp design versus the cheaper models.
The Powermatic movement, with its huge power reserve, makes a return, along with the strong aquatic performance. This is the most expensive watch here, bordering on luxury itself, though it's substantially more wallet-friendly than the model which inspired it.
Specifications
Diameter: 43mm
Lug to lug: 50mm
Thickness: 13.1mm
Case Material: Treated Titanium
Crystal: Sapphire
Water Resistance: 300m
Movement: Powermatic automatic
Pagani Design PD-1667
A bargain bucket alternative to the 007 Seamaster is the Pagani Design PD-1667. Surprisingly, this isn't a direct copy-and-paste job, as while it looks akin to the original, it has some differing elements.
The most obvious change is the handset. The PD-1667 still has skeletonized hands, though they're a more simplistic shape and the faux patina is a lighter color, especially on the hour markers. As this watch has been built on a tighter budget, it also foregoes the helium release valve at the top left. As a result, the reduced water resistance of 100m is hardly surprising. The rest of the watch, outside of the logo, is otherwise incredibly similar; the case shape and bezel are testaments to that.
Oddly, on AliExpress, this watch can be purchased with one of three automatic movements: the reliable Seiko NH35A, the infamously noisy Miyota 8215, and the obscure 'Seiko YN55'. It turns out that the latter is essentially an unbranded version of the Orient caliber F6922, which features in many well-known Orient watches. As such, I'd recommend choosing the cheapest of the Seiko options, which perform near-identically and avoid the frustrating downfalls of the Miyota.
Specifications
Diameter: 42mm
Lug to lug: 49mm
Thickness: 14mm (including crystal)
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Domed sapphire
Water Resistance: 100m
Movement: Seiko NH35 Automatic
More 007 Seamaster Alternatives (particular variants of watches mentioned earlier)
Casio Duro MDV-106
Casio recently updated the Duro range to feature a black and gold version of the MDV-106, an excellent substitute for the No Time To Die Seamaster.
Depth Charge Diver
WatchShop's 'Depth Charge' brand has a large black and gold version similar to the 007 Seamaster, with some Rolex vibes thrown in.
Phylida SE-11 & Special Edition
Chinese clone specialists Phylida not only have a direct 'homage' to the 007 No Time To Die Seamaster, but they even offer a special edition whose dial simulates the famous gun barrel featured in the intro to James Bond movies (a copy of the 50th-anniversary special edition Omega).
Vostok Amphibia Classic 120697b (Note – Russian-made)
This particular version of the Vostok Amphibia may have an inverted bezel. Still, it does offer a similar color scheme to the 007 Seamaster, alongside the classic arrow hour hand and bracelet. It's also got plenty of water resistance.
Omega Seamaster Chronograph Alternatives
Bulova Marine Star
I'd consider myself a fan of the American brand Bulova, even though most of their products are now manufactured in the far east. I previously reviewed their Hack Automatic and Precisionist watches, and while they lacked water resistance, I praised both for their designs and build quality. While the Marine Star Chronograph lacks the incredible Precisionist movement, it nonetheless makes for a great alternative to the lesser-known Omega Seamaster Chronograph, especially given the secondary crown at the top-left, which offers a similar look to the helium release valve.
This extra crown rotates the internal bezel, the primary aesthetic difference between the Bulova and the Omega. The rest of the visuals are very alike, especially compared to the triple-subdial Seamasters, with a hollowed handset and akin proportions.
The Marine Star is, unsurprisingly, made of the industry-standard 316L stainless steel. The main disadvantage of this piece is the underwhelming mineral crystal at a price point where sapphire is the norm.
Specifications
Diameter: 43.7mm (not including side bulge)
Lug to lug: 50mm (55.6mm with integrated end link bracelet)
Thickness: 11.8mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Mineral
Water Resistance: 100m
Movement: Miyota quartz