Top 10 Chinese watches for Collectors.
These are the crème de la crème, and if they’re not in your collection yet, you should consider them.
They’re affordable, ranging from $300 down to just $35. I’ll provide links to each of the watches I have reviewed, just click the link to open a new page with the review on.
Let’s dive into the watches. Starting with the Seagal 1963, it’s a must-have for affordable watch collectors and gets respect from almost everyone. It’s an original design, looking fantastic with its unusual colour mix and features a mechanical column wheel chronograph dating back to the 1940s. These Seagal movements are now in microbrands costing up to $800, but you can get it for around $190.
CLICK REVIEW HERE
Next is the Steel Dive 1970, a classic watch and a must for budget collectors. It’s a Seiko look-alike, specifically the Seiko 6105-81010. For under $175, it offers an incredible set of features: sapphire crystal, Seiko NH35 automatic movement, ceramic bezel insert, good lume, 200-meter water resistance, and a 316L stainless steel case and bracelet.
Another classic is the Kadison C1032, a handsome everyday watch for no more than $55. It looks classy and features a Seiko NH36 movement with day-date complication, sapphire crystal, a sunburst dial, and a stainless steel bracelet.
Continuing the list, Pagani Design makes a strong appearance with their moonwatch look-alike. It’s a standout with a red and white colour scheme and your target price should be around $110.
It features Seiko’s mega quartz chronograph movement, sapphire crystal, a sapphire bezel insert, all stainless steel construction, and good water resistance. These watches wear even better than the Omegas they mimic, offering a shorter lug-to-lug fit.
San Martin, a brand I regard highly for manufacturing the best watches under $300, also makes the list. My favourite from their catalogue is the Skin Diver GMT. Expect to pay around $380 for a watch that’s hard to beat at this price.
It’s beautifully crafted with sapphire, ceramic, Seiko’s NH34 movement, and an adjustable clasp. The finishing is exceptional, comparable to watches priced much higher.
Seagull, one of the world’s largest mechanical watch movement manufacturers, has a few entries on the list, including the stunning Seagull 51. For around $150, this watch offers mid-century elegance with a sapphire covering. Seagull’s designs are a blend of look-alikes and unique creations, proving you don’t have to break the bank for a good watch.
CLICK REVIEW HERE
Rolex Submariner look-alikes are abundant, but the Chronos version hits the sweet spot for me. With prices ranging between $280 to $320 depending on the movement, it offers incredible value. The watch’s construction is top-notch, with screw lengths, a glide lock-style clasp, and great lume.
The Guanqin GJ16034 is another classic, featuring a Seiko movement, sapphire crystal, and a reasonable leather strap with a deployment clasp. You can grab this for about $60. It’s a discreet and office-friendly option.
San Martin’s 6200 1953 retro dive watch is a beauty, based on an early Rolex Submariner but updated with modern materials. For just over $200, it’s a high-quality piece that rivals more expensive brands.
CLICK REVIEW HERE
The Seagull Ocean Star, an original dive watch designed by Seagull, is a robust piece with an in-house movement. During the sale, it’s priced under $550, offering great value.
CLICK REVIEW HERE
This list showcases a wide range of watches, from affordable originals to high-quality look-alikes. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, there’s something for everyone in this list. Enjoy exploring these options, and let me know if there’s a gem you think I missed!