who makes the best replica watches
DURO DIVE WATCH
Arguably the best cheap dive watch around, the MDV-106 has a cult following. Sometimes known as the ‘Duro’, this is known to be one of the most durable watches for the price tag.
In the US, these are often available for under $50, it really is an astonishing achievement considering the level of finishing and the 200m water resistance rating.
They recently released two colour variants, including a blue option and the gold variant I have obtained. At 44mm, this is a beefy watch not for the slim-wristed. However, should the size suit your needs, you’re getting a beast of a watch that will serve you well on land or at sea.
Should that not be to your taste, or size for that matter, some alternatives also give you the diver aesthetic, albeit with a slight reduction in aquatic performance down to 100m.
EFV-120D & EFV-130D
Two alternatives include the EFV-120D and 130D. These are a modern take on the diver design, with full stainless steel construction, rotating bezels and a better level of finishing than that on the Duro.
They’re both also fitted with steel bracelets by default and are sized slightly smaller than the MDV-106, so are both options worth considering. I particularly like these two blue variants which pop nicely without looking cheesy.
The 120D has an angular structure, akin to that on the aforementioned Royal Oak homage, but with the chunky coin-edge bezel on top. Meanwhile, the 130D has a much more classic, swooping shape, which integrates very nicely with the stock bracelet.
Both have a decent 10bar water resistance, which is good enough for swimming and are great buys for under ￡70 at the time of publishing.
SUPER ILLUMINATOR
Should you require a submergible timepiece with better low-light visibility, look no further than this, the Casio ‘Super Illuminator’. While more clunky than the previous dive offerings, at 13.8mm thick, it does house several unique features, such as the domed mineral crystal and the interesting skeletonised handset.
This rolex replica watches gets its nickname from the ‘Super Illuminator’ LED backlight system, which shines from the top and bottom of the dial to provide a clear view of the time. This can be activated using the pusher located at the 2 o’clock position. Surprisingly, it also features traditional luminescence elsewhere, but it’s not very bright or long-lasting.
Most of the watches on this list are easily accessible from the likes of Amazon and other retailers. This one isn’t. The mythical ‘Beside’ BEM-SL100D is one of the most popular Casio watches that nobody can seem to hunt down. I first learned of this on the 24hoursatatime channel, it immediately struck me and I couldn’t help the feeling of lust that came over me.
Unfortunately, it remains the only watch on this list which I have yet to own at some point. Indeed, this one disappeared on the whispers of the wind a year ago and had not returned to the market since.
It has such a striking look, featuring a circular brushed flat bezel and a beautiful marble-look dial. With full steel construction and an array of attractive colourways; this is arguably the best-looking Casio ever produced, resembling a sort of budget Patek Philippe/AP hybrid. Obviously, the finishing doesn’t hold up versus true luxury watches, however, you do get a lot for your money…if you can find one without paying a premium.
In many countries, including the UK, these are selling for hundreds (yes, hundreds) of pounds. If you can find one for less, you’re getting a great deal on a stunning and exclusive watch.
For a quick dash of ‘bling-bling’, it might be worth looking at the gold-coloured AQ-230. This one combines a shrunk analogue clock face with a mini digital display beneath; providing a cool retro look for a very low price.
This watch can be programmed to show two times at once, which could be a useful feature for those who travel to visit relatives regularly. Unlike some other Casios, it features drilled lugs, allowing you to easily switch the bracelet out for an alternative strap.
There are several colourways available, though be warned some of these are known to be fake; so pay attention to who the seller is. Unbelievably, faking cheap Casios is a thing and this model is renowned for it.
As with other lower-end watches, this only has resin construction and acrylic over the dial, so it will mark and scratch heavily over time. However, it’s an iconic look for the price of a few beers so you can hardly complain.
A great choice for the more adventurous of you out there, the beefy SGW-100 is one of the smartest non-smart cheap replica watch that you’re likely to find. While it’s massive, at 48mm, it does pack in a bunch of useful features, including a compass; accurate to +/- 12 degrees and a thermometer.
As you might expect, it performs particularly well in extreme conditions, boasting a 200m water resistance rating; alongside a specified operating window of down to -10 degrees Celcius. While it lacks the shock-resistant technology found in G-Shock watches, it’s undoubtedly a beast of a watch and will likely serve you very well in the field. It’s also a fraction of the price.
The display is also one of the best on the market, with large clear numbers and a bright screen to boot. This typically comes fitted with a resin strap, though some versions have fabric options instead.
