Rolex watches are, for many, synonymous with quality luxury watches.
They have a perfect blend of sleek, chic, and sturdy quality, to say nothing of all the extra features offered by some of the latest models.
Add to that the fact that there are now decades of elegant antique and retro Rolexes that you can collect and show off, and it’s understandable why the association between “Rolex” and “Luxury” is so strong.
But is that association a little too “obvious?”
Dare we say, “cliché?”
What if you want luxury without the pomp and pomposity that precedes the purchase of a Rolex?
If so, you’ll want to take a look at these five underrated luxury brands that feature models that in some ways are just as good or – dare we day it – even better than Rolex watches.
1. Omega Watches: Orient Men's Sun and Moon Version 2
If you are a fan of the Kennedys, or maybe just the Kennedy Mystique, you’ll want to check out Omega Watches, which have a connection with JFK.
As for a specific model, the Sun and Moon Version 2 strikes a good balance between value and luxury.
It doesn’t come inexpensive, but at around $240, it is far less expensive than many comparatively expensive Rolexes.
The watch boasts sapphire crystal while the casing is 14.1 mm thick. It makes use of Japanese watch movement techniques, and is water resistant to up to 165 ft.
2. Breitling Watches: Chronomat Colt Automatic 44 Blue Dial Men's Watch
Far more expensive is this offering from Breitling, topping $2,300.
That said, you get quite a lot of value for that investment, not least in one of the most stylish watches in that price range you’ll find here or anywhere.
This model pairs deep sapphire blue with elegant silver to create something that just looks like a “luxury watch,” all while offering a good deal of durability as well with both sides boasting scratch resistant crystal.
The case diameter is 44 mm, the inlet 22 mm, the case boasts brushed stainless steel, and it features self-winding automatic chronometer movement.
3. Patek Watches: Philippe 5711/1A-010
Think the Breitling was expensive?
Try a watch as expensive as some cars!
This model from Patek can set you back a cool $75,000!
What do you get for that?
A genuinely luxurious blend of white gold and sapphire.
A ton of date and time features, stainless steel casing that’s 40 mm in diameter, a sapphire crystal case back, and water resistance up to 120 m (because you definitely don’t want to drown this expensive watch!).
4. Michael Kors Watches: Lexington Chronograph Stainless Steel Watch
After that eye-popping expensive Patek, this roughly $150 offering from Michael Kors seems like a bargain!
For the elegant silver-tone style you get, it very well may be.
It also comes with some fantastic features, including a tonal dial that includes chronograph functions as well as a date display, quartz movement, and water resistance up to 100 m.
5. Seiko Watches: Seiko Men's SUP880 Analog Display
Finally, a luxury watch under $100.
This offering from Seiko also distinguishes itself with a watch face that’s square rather than rounded like the rest on this list.
It pairs a gold-painted case and leather band pairing with a watch face which is solar powered for a truly unique offering. Other features include its Japanese-style movement and 99 m water resistance.
With these offerings, you can make Rolexes your ex-top choice for an affordable luxury watch.