Rolex DateJust Homages & Alternatives (Affordable & Stunning Watches)

Burei DateJust

I reviewed Burei just recently and they are definitely a brand to watch if you want a super-affordable watch. This particular model is more or less a copy of the Rolex DateJust, but let’s call it a homage/look alike to be kind.

They have produced it in a stunning array of options, which you can see below, and have added Rhinestone hour markers to it, which those of you who love “bling” will enjoy. It also comes with all the hallmarks of the DateJust – the bezel, the cyclops lens on the date window and the overall style.

Surprisingly it has a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, which is almost unheard of at this price. But they have cut a few corners with a Japanese (still ok) quartz movement and only 30m water resistant (so splash proof). However, it should still last you a good while.

Stuhrling Original

Models: 96C127, 96C125, 98C60, 97C106

If you are looking for a good ol’ USA owned company to buy a watch from, it’s a bit of a struggle these days. But Stuhrling, founded back in the 90s in New York, is one place you can still get quality watches at affordable prices.

This particular Rolex homage is a worthwhile contender for a Rolex DateJust alternative, with the signature jubilee style bracelet, cyclops date window and fluted bezel. The Roman numerals are a slight variation, which you will either love or hate, but definitely suit the style.

Fanmis 2-Tone Stainless Steel

This watch is an absolute bargain, which also sets off my alarm bells. The branding says Reginald, but the manufacturer is Fanmis, who you will see all over the web making similar kinds of watches. Are they any good? Well for under $50 you get what you pay for.

However, at first glance it ticks all the Rolex DateJust boxes – fluted bezel, cyclops date window, two-tone jubilee bracelet. So if you are after a cheap homage, this is the one to get.

Gosasa Automatic

Another confusingly branded watch made by Gosasa, but labelled Holuns! This one, like the Burei above, comes with shiney Rhinestones as hour markers. And all the rest of the homage trappings I  have mentioned countless times above.

This particular models stands out as being all gold, although only in the sense of color – as it is actually stainless steel.

The most interesting features of this watch, aside from it’s affordability, are the automatic self-winding movement, the sapphire crystal and the skeleton display back, which is a nice addition.

Note: if you like the Rhinestones, there is a stone-studded bezel version also worth checking out.

Seiko SGF206 DateJust

Seiko can always be counted on to produce a top-level watch at a reasonable price. And this watch is no exception. They are also not a manufacturer to take the word “homage” to mean copy either.

This Rolex DateJust alternative has many of the inspirations from Rolex, but Seiko have added a few touches like a Day/Date instead of just a Date. And no cyclops window, which is great for those who are not a fan. Like me.

And similar to the model above, this is also quite a small watch, so will be great for those really wanting a slim and stylish dress watch and not a huge chunk of metal hanging on their wrist.

Citizen Eco-Drive Two Tone

Citizen are another brand that know a thing or two about watches. And although this model is not as much of a copy as most of those above, it is still a great alternative Rolex DateJust.

The bezel is gold-colored but not fluted like the original and the date window is a little on the small side with no cyclops window. However, Citizen’s proprietary Eco-drive (solar) system makes for a life-long companion. They have also added 100m water resistance, so you know you are safe no matter who wet this watch gets.

Casio MTP-1302L-1AVER

Casio is always a reliable brand that makes robust watches, and in this case, great alternatives to the Rolex DateJust.

There are of course quite a few homage elements to this watch like the fluted bezel, the long rectangular markers and the single color, clean dial. However, Casio have chosen to add a leather band to this watch giving it a little more of a relaxed feel.

ORIENT Classic

Reference: SER20002B, SER1P008D, SER20002W

Orient, like most notable brands out there, is always taking inspiration from the best and then making it their own. This version of the Orient Classic (usually with model numbers starting with SER) is quite hard to find these days, but worth it if you can.

It features Orient’s own automatic self-winding movement, a sapphire crystal, and 50m water resistance. All in all, great specs for a watch around the $250 price mark.

Tudor Price OysterDate

If you still want to tell people your watch is “Swiss Made” then this homage from Tudor is worthwhile considering. Especially when you add to the fact that it’s actually owned and made by Rolex!

You won’t always find it on the most obvious of online retailers like Amazon, but there are plenty of options on eBay or other watch stores. And depending on the materials and movement used, they can be very affordable indeed.

This model has all the trappings of the Rolex DateJust, and given they made it, it’s no surprise. It might just be the best homage available.