The Omega Seamaster, a timepiece owned by the few that can afford one, is the epitome of fine Swiss watches — with meticulous engineering, exquisite craftsmanship and a deep sense of secrecy.
The Omega Seamaster collection features watches that are amongst the most recognizable in the world - and the most coveted by those in search of true Swiss workmanship and exclusivity.
However, the prices of many of the Seamaster variants can be astronomical - making these stylish and iconic watches beyond the reach of the majority of watch lovers, including professional and amateur divers, many of whom regard the Seamaster as the ultimate diving watch.
The prices for the classic Ploprof 1200M Seamasters can range from around $7,000 to $13,100, depending on the materials used. The entry-level Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M goes for around $4,000. But at the high end is the Seamaster 1948 'Co-Axial Small Seconds 38mm (Limited Edition),' which can fetch in the region of $42,000.
Clearly, many of those who are in search of Omega style might have to look elsewhere.
Fortunately, there are a number of watches that pay homage to the Seamaster - and sport a similar stylistic footprint. Here are some of the best.
Seiko has built an enviable reputation for supplying high-quality timepieces at a reasonable price. Their range of dive watches is especially impressive.
Seiko doesn't manufacture Omega look-alikes with that classic blue face - but the blackface version looks very similar to the black-faced Omega Seamaster variants.
The hands might be a bit chunkier than those on the Seamaster, and it does feature a day/date, unlike the Seamaster, which only has the date displayed, but this is a solid, well manufactured, and attractive choice.
It's water-resistant to 200m (660ft), features an automatic movement, and a 'Hardex' crystal window. At a price of around $300, this is our go to watch whenever someone asks for a recommendation for a more affordable Omega Seamaster.
This watch is about as close to a Seamaster clone as can be without attracting the beady eyes of the Omega legal team.
There are, however, a few slight cosmetic differences. The bevel is more textured than that found on the Seamaster, and the face does have different patterning.
Like the Seamaster, it does feature dot hour markers and a date function at 3 O'clock.
Like some other more expensive homages in this list, it is water resistant to 200 meters and features a uni-directional bezel and automatic movement.
To be expected for the price, many specs are lower than most of the Seamaster's.
All in all, an attractive timepiece that can easily double up as a diving and dress watch. With some models priced at around $70 (online), you are going to struggle to find a better combination of value and sheer good looks.
With this watch, we are starting to get into the more expensive echelons of Seamaster homage designs. At a whisker under $4,000, some buyers might start to think of going for the Seamaster itself.
But the specs are impressive. It's a high-quality Swiss creation like the Seamaster, featuring water resistance to 500 meters (1654ft) and the strap has a 'deployment clasp.' Like the Seamaster, the Pelagus also comes in titanium model (case and bracelet) - which we think adds to the sleek and elegant design.
The window is sapphire crystal, and the automatic movement is COSC (Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute) certified which means it comes with a number engraved on its movement and a certificate of authenticity. It's worth noting that this timepiece is manufactured in the same factory as Rolex watches.
All in all, a very impressive piece of Swiss timepiece manufacturing - and highly attractive.
You'd have to look extremely closely at this watch to spot that it is not an Omega. It sports some very similar features, and the style is pure Omega.
The similarities include the blue face and dial, which are classic Seamaster. The silver-colored hands, and the lettering are all very similar to the Omega classics too.
The dive watch is water resistant up to 200 meters (around 660 feet) - it's not quite in the same class as some of the more advanced Seamaster's.
But at a price point of around $150 (online) and featuring 22 jewel Japanese movement with a mineral crystal window, it is definitely worth a look.
This watch boasts impressive specs for any timepiece of this quality that comes in around the $100 mark.
The striking blue dial looks great, and the bright hour markers add to the appeal and easy readability underwater.
Like the Seamaster, it has a date window (albeit slightly differently orientated). The addition of a 'deployment clasp' is a nice touch as this feature is usually only found on much more expensive timepieces.
The movement is Swiss quartz, and it is more than capable in the water, being water-resistant to 200 meters.
Stemming from Invicta's famous Grand Driver collection, this modern and elegant timepiece features a finely crafted Japanese automatic movement and a high quality of workmanship, at an affordable pricepoint.
The 47 mm stainless steel case of the Invicta Grand Driver timepiece is further complemented by a stainless-steel band, making it a worthy companion for every function and style.
Offering water resistance to a depth of 300 meters, the Grand Driver is accompanied by a five-year warranty from Invicta for your peace of mind.
The Seiko SKX 007 is, in our opinion, the best timepiece for those seeking for an affordable Seamaster alternative that combines quality craftsmanship, ample diving features and still looks great at the office.
Those on a more limited budget should consider the Invicta 9094 Pro Diver, which, with its exceptionally attractive blue dial, is sure to grab your attention.
If you have the money and are looking for something a little different, but still has many of the Seamaster's hallmarks, then the Tudor Pelagos Blue Dial is our top pick.
The classic status of the Omega Seamaster has allowed many homage variations to become popular watches in their own right. There are now many great choices available to those who want Seamaster looks, without breaking the bank.
The sheer number of choices ensures that there is simply something for everyone - at a price for all wallets.
