There’s next to zero doubt that as far as luxury watch brands go, there are not many that can lay a glove on Audemars Piguet.
The Swiss brand has been making some of the world’s finest timepieces for over a century, and its watches are widely considered to be some of the best in the business.
One of Audemars Piguet’s most iconic releases is the Royal Oak. The distinct tonneau-shaped case has been an inspiration for other luxury watchmakers and the Royal Oak and it’s easy to see why.
With that said, we need to be honest – an average watch enthusiast might never be able to afford a genuine Audemars Piguet watch because, depending on the exact model, the Oak can set you back anywhere between $20,000 to well into six figures.
Thankfully, over the years many much more affordable brands tried to replicate the success of the Royal Oak by releasing their own takes on the iconic watch.
So, without further ado, here are some of the best watches that look like Royal Oak.
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Watches That Look Like Royal Oak (Top 5 Overview)
Table could not be displayed.Audemars Piguet Royal Oak: the History
Before we move on to discuss each of the Royal Oak lookalikes, it’s only fair to know a bit more about the watch that started it all.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak was released in 1972 and it was designed by the brand’s then-creative director, Gerald Genta. At the time, luxury watches were mostly small and delicate affairs and the chunky, industrial design of the Royal Oak was a complete departure from what was considered to be the norm.
The watch was initially met with mixed reactions but it quickly gained a loyal following among celebrities and the general public alike. The Royal Oak is now widely considered to be one of the most important watches ever made, and its design has been copied by many brands over the years.
As we mentioned earlier, the Royal Oak is not exactly an inexpensive watch – even the most basic models start at several thousand dollars. So, unless you’re lucky enough to have a healthy bank balance, chances are you’ll never own a genuine Royal Oak.
Luckily, there are plenty of fantastic alternatives that will give you the same look and feel without breaking the bank.
Watches That Look Like Royal Oak (Top 5 Reviewed)
G-Shock GA-2100
We could bet heavily that a G-Shock watch wouldn’t be the first timepiece that springs to mind when you think of a Royal Oak lookalike but, trust us on this one, the GA-2100 is a fantastic and very unique alternative to Audemars Piguet’s most famous watch.
This G-Shock looks like Audemars Piguet’s bulkier brother – pretty classy on one side but with a serious street edge on the other.
The case is made from a high-quality resin that’s both light and strong, and it comes with a very manageable 48mm case – noticeably smaller than most of your regular G-Shocks. As far as thickness is concerned, it’s just 11mm which again is pretty unique in the G-Shock family. The sizing makes it a perfect match for folks with varying wrist sizes.
The most notable feature of this watch is its unique octagonal bezel – an audacious design choice that makes the GA-2100 instantly recognizable. The bezel is made from carbon which means the watch is utilizing Casio’s Carbon Core Guard (CCG) construction. Timepieces constructed to CCG standards are said to be more resilient in a number of ways. They are more durable and rugged since the substance guards against harm brought on by shock-induced damage.
The durability standards offered by this watch are unmatchable at these price points. The watch is shock- and water-resistant, and it comes with a scratch-resistant mineral crystal that also goes a long way in helping protect the watch’s longevity. A sturdy resin strap also contributes to this.
When it comes to the said face, its dark design will definitely turn some heads. As you’d expect from a G-Shock, the dial combines analog and digital elements. The watch has large hands and baton indexes which are coated with Super-LumiNova, making them highly visible even in low-light conditions. Adding to the legibility is the inclusion of a LED light that evenly illuminates the entire dial. As you have probably noticed, the model doesn’t include seconds hand which adds to the mystery of the design.
At nine o’clock there’s a sub-dial indicating the day of the week, while the digital window positioned between three and six o’clock comes with a plethora of functions, such as a countdown timer, stopwatch, and daily alarms (up to 5), and full-auto calendar.
The GA-2100 is powered by Casio’s own Japanese quartz movement which is accurate and reliable, delivering an accuracy of +/- 15 seconds per month.
While the model we picked is all-black, Casio’s Royal Oak is also available in other variations such as military green or white.
Bulova Octava
Next up we have Bulova’s iced-out take on the Royal Oak.
- Related: Cheapest Iced-Out Watches
The 96C134, named Crystal Octava, is a pretty solid and very well-made timepiece that is probably the biggest attention-grabber on today’s list of Royal Oak look-alike watches, due to its flashy design adorned with as many as 306 Swarovski crystals. Shining bright like a diamond, anyone?
The first thing you’ll notice about this watch is its blingy, iced-out bezel which is studded with 44 white crystals. The case, made from stainless steel, is 42mm in diameter and just shy of 10mm in thickness – meaning we could describe the timepiece as fairly standard-sized. It has a solid caseback. The 5-link bracelet is too made from the same material and also comes with over a hundred Swarovski crystals. The bracelet uses a deployment clasp closure.
Bulova’s Crystal Octava model is a chronograph watch, meaning it comes with as many as three additional sub-dials. These display -24 hour time, date, and day of the week. Additionally, at the three o’clock position is a date display.
For easy time-telling in darker conditions, the watch’s hands are luminescent. The same can’t be said about the baton indices. Generally speaking, taking this into consideration, as well as the fact the whole face is flooded with crystals, it’s fair to say this watch could do a bit better in terms of legibility.
Despite its immense looks, it’s definitely not an everyday beater. While the presence of a mineral crystal glass is more than welcome, water resistance on this one is pretty average – it will withstand accidental splashes but nothing more than that. Heavy use might also lead to damaging the precious crystals.
Luckily, in terms of accuracy, there’s nothing to point the finger at. The American watchmaker went for a Japanese quartz movement in this model which is known for its reliability.
In general, Bulova watches provide great value and this shiny Royal Oak homage is not an exception to the rule.
D1 Milano Skeleton
D1 Milano is one of the fastest-growing microbrands out there. The Italian watchmaker offers a wide variety of different timepieces, all of which boast amazing design and solid build quality.
What’s worth a note, D1 has quite a few affordable models paying homage to the original Royal Oak timepiece.
We’ve picked probably the most unique-looking.
D1 Milano SKRJ01 is a skeleton-type watch, meaning that you can see the inner workings of the movement – from both angles. On top of the see-through dial, the watch has also a transparent caseback. And it’s not just for show – the intricate and well-decorated movement is a work of art in its own right.
The rest of the watch closely resembles a Royal Oak as well. It has a brushed stainless steel case with an octagonal bezel (also brushed) and screwed-down pushers. The case is of a standard size, measuring 41.5mm in diameter and 9.50mm in thickness.
The bracelet is this time made from rubber and comes with standard buckle closure.
As we’ve already mentioned, the watch has a skeleton dial. While these are not the most legible timepieces, the head-turning design definitely makes up for it. Moreover, the two hands (for hours and minutes), as well as indices, glow in the dark. Protecting the face from damage is sapphire crystal glass.
On the movement front, the watch utilizes an ultra-reliable automatic caliber from Seiko (Japanese-made). It delivers a fairly standard accuracy for an automatic caliber in this price range, ranging from -20 to +40 seconds/day.
Last but not least, the watch is water-resistant up to 50m.
Mathey-Tissot Evasion
It’s time to turn to Mathey-Tissot’s Evasion model – a watch that, at first sight, might fool you into thinking it’s an actual Royal Oak.
When it comes to well-crafted, hidden gems of the watchmaking industry, this Swiss brand is one of our favorites. You can learn why exactly by reading our Mathey-Tissot brand review.
Now, moving to the watch itself, the H152ABU is a pretty standard-sized watch – especially when you look at other models in Mathey-Tissot’s collection. The Royal Oak-inspired look features a 42mm stainless steel case in the tonneau shape, with a solid caseback. The bezel is fixed and brushed, adding to the stylish look. The stainless steel bracelet, on the other hand, is polished and comes with a fold-over clasp with a push-button release.
What sets apart Mathey-Tissot from other Swiss brands is its affordability and underappreciated value. Considering the low cost of this Audemars Piguet look-alike, it’s quite a feat that it comes with sapphire crystal – by far the most scratch-resistant material used in watchmaking.
Even though this particular model doesn’t feature any additional complications, it’s the amazing simplicity that gets it so close to the actual Royal Oak. The dial features an ocean blue background with wavy patterns and white hands which makes for a very elegant look. Despite the minimalistic look, at the six o’clock position there’s still a date window. In terms of legibility after dusk, the hour and minute hands, as well as the baton indices, are luminescent.
Uncharacteristically for a Swiss-made watch in this price range, the Evasion model comes with a sapphire crystal glass which is a major bonus.
Like all Mathey-Tissot watches, this one is powered by a Swiss-made movement produced by Ronda, one of the country’s most-trusted manufacturers. It’s a quartz caliber delivering similar accuracy to the Japanese-made movements found in Casio and Bulova models.
On the waterproofing front, the watch can withstand a pressure of up to 50m.
Maurice Lacroix Aikon
Closing the TOP 5 list of watches that look like Royal Oak is a piece for those with a bit to spend as Maurice Lacroix Aikon comes with a hefty price tag (at least when compared to other Royal Oak alternatives discussed above). Gladly, it’s still some way off AP’s prices.
The watch is made with Swiss precision in mind and it features a rhodium-plated stainless steel case with a solid caseback. The bezel is made from the same material. Both elements are beautifully brushed. What distinguishes the model from other Royal Oak alternatives on the list is the leather band which comes with standard buckle closure.
The Aikon is standardly-sized as it has a case diameter of 43mm. The thickness of the case is 10.8mm which, in combination with the size, gives a nice presence on the wrist.
When it comes to the dial, things are kept relatively simple (elegant, some might say). The face is blue and has a quilted pattern similar to the one on the Cadisen and Pagani models. Once again, there’s a date window at three o’clock and the hands and indices glow in the dark. The watch face has the best possible protection in the form of sapphire crystal which also has an anti-reflective coating.
Of course, the biggest selling point of this Maurice Lacroix model – just like of any other Swiss luxury watchmaker for that matter – is the movement. The Aikon is powered by ML115 Swiss-made automatic movement which is a 26-jewel caliber ensuring excellent accuracy of +/- 2-16 seconds daily. It has a power reserve of 38 hours.
Although the watch looks extremely elegant, it’s also durable as heck. It offers solid shock resistance and is also water-resistant up to 200m – quite a feat for a dressy model.
The watch might not be identical to Audemars Piguet’s original Royal Oak model but it’s still a very relatively close match coming from a luxury Swiss watchmaker that’s way more affordable than Audemars Piguet.
AP Royal Oak Look-Alikes: 5 Alternatives
We hope that at least one of our top 5 picks has grabbed your attention and your Royal Oak alternative is already on the way – without the risk of ruining you financially.
However, if none of the watches covered above caters to your taste, don’t worry. Below you will find five additional models that will definitely provide further food for thought.
Festina F16757-4
Festina is another less-known brand discussed on today’s list of watches that look like Royal Oak. However, similar to Mathey Tissot covered above, it’s another one that delivers solid value at super affordable price points.
Originally founded in Switzerland at the beginning of the 20th century, it is now headquartered in Spain and therefore can and should be considered a Spanish brand.
The F16757-4, in particular, is one of the most elegant and well-crafted Royal Oak alternatives out there. It features a stainless steel case and bezel reminiscent of the Royal Oak, measuring 40mm in diameter and 11mm in thickness. The model has a solid caseback.
The bracelet, on the other hand, is where Festina does things a bit differently. Instead of going for the classic all-polished approach, the 3-link bracelet has two polished links on the outside and one brushed link between them – making for quite a combo. The bracelet is finished off with a double-folding clasp.
The watch has a pitch-black dial that contrasts really nicely with the stainless steel body. The dial is pretty busily-arranged, with three chronograph sub-dials positioned at 2, 6 and 10 o’clock. These measure 24 hours, 60 seconds, and 30 seconds, respectively. Additionally, the 3 o’clock position features a date display window. For improved legibility, both the hands and baton indices are luminescent.
The watch uses a Japanese quartz movement and is water-resistant up to 50m.
D1 Milano UTBL02
As already mentioned, D1 Milano has a pretty big collection of Audemars Piguet look-alike watches – so it’s only fair to include more than just one timepiece from the Italian watchmaker.
This time, we’ve opted for a watch primarily designed for ladies but, if you’re a man into smaller-sized timepieces, it could definitely be an option for you as well.
The UTBL02 model belongs to D1 Milano’s Ultra Thin line, which, as you have probably guessed by now, focuses on creating thin and elegant watches. This collection in particular focuses on Audemars look-alike watches.
Fair to say, this timepiece oozes elegance and refinement. It features an ultra-thin (6mm to be precise) stainless steel case with a solid caseback. The case measures 38mm in diameter and is fully brushed – just like the bezel and the 2-link stainless steel bracelet which comes with a fold-over clasp. All elements are rose gold.
Moving on to the dial, it’s the epitome of minimalism. It comes in white color, with gold-tone indices and hands. It’s worth noting that this model doesn’t offer luminescence. Protecting it from cracks and scratches is mineral glass.
The watch is powered by a Japanese quartz movement which is hidden away behind a screwed-down caseback. When it comes to water resistance, the watch can withstand a pressure of up to 50m.
Cadisen C8193M-3
If you’re looking for cheap watches that look like Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak and you are free of prejudices against Chinese brands, this Cadisen model should provide further food for thought.
The watch comes with a simple but elegant design, inspired by the original Royal Oak. Akin to the D1 Milano model above, it features a fully brushed design – the octagonal case, bezel and bracelet are all made from brushed stainless steel.
The case measures 42mm in diameter and is 12.5mm thick, while the bracelet comes with a standard folding clasp. It’s also worth noting that the watch has a see-through caseback through which you can peek at the intricate workings of the movement. To add a bit of uniqueness to the mix, the bezel features eight screws.
Moving on to the dial, it features a blue background with a quilted pattern. Other than that, it’s pretty minimalistic and the only addition is the date window located at three o’clock. For easy reading after dusk, all three hands and baton indices are luminescent.
Considering the low price of this model, the fact it comes with sapphire glass should be highly appreciated. Additionally, contributing to the solid durability standards is its water resistance – rated at 10ATM / 100m.
Last but not least, the watch is powered by a Japanese-made automatic movement, again manufactured by Seiko.
Timex Essex Avenue
Next to Bulova, Timex is another trusted American brand that offers quality watches at an affordable price.
Introducing the Essex Avenue – a watch partially inspired by Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak with its octagonal case and bezel, as well as a 3-link bracelet that comes with a folding clasp. It’s another model on the list of watches that look like Royal Oak which comes with a brushed case and bezel.
The case measures 40mm in diameter while, at the same time, it’s also one of the thinnest watches discussed in the article (8.1mm). The watch has a solid caseback and mineral crystal glass covering the face.
The Timex Essex Avenue model you see above comes with a blue dial with orange minute markers and silver hands and hour indices. The markers and hands are all luminescent for easy reading after dusk.
The watch is powered by an accurate Japanese quartz movement. When it comes to water resistance, Essex Avenue can withstand a pressure of up to 50m (5ATM).
Pagani Design 1673M
Finally, coming last in our list of watches that look like Royal Oak is the second Chinese watchmaker on the list, Pagani.
We’re not sure who got inspired by who but this Pagani model is extremely similar, not to say identical, to the Cadisen C8193M-3 watch which we’ve discussed earlier.
The watch comes with the same overall design – the dial with the quilted pattern but this time with a black background.
Other similarities between the two are the brushed case and bracelet, as well as the distinctive screws installed on the octagonal bezel.
However, the watch wears slightly smaller on the wrist as it has a case diameter of 39mm. The case is 12mm thick and, similar to its Cadisen counterpart, it features a see-through caseback. The bracelet, on the other hand, has a double-locking foldover clasp.
Moving on to the quilted face, it’s leaning towards minimalism, with the date window (located at 3 o’clock) the only addition to the three hands. Both the hands and the baton indices are silver which makes for a good contrast with the black dial. Once again, all markers and hands are luminescent for easy reading after dark.
Akin to the Cadisen model discussed above, this one is also powered by a Japanese-made automatic movement with an accuracy of +/- -20/+40 seconds per day.
The last metric that connects the two models is the water resistance which, in both cases, is at 10ATM / 100m.
Watches That Look Like Royal Oak: Conclusion
So, there you have it – some of the best affordable watches that look like Royal Oak. All of the models on the list come with a similar overall design but with some slight differences that make them unique in their own way.
If like for most of us, the original Royal Oak model is way out of your budget, don’t fret. With any of the above-mentioned watches, you can still enjoy the beauty of this timeless design at a fraction of the price.
Do you own any of the watches on the list? Or maybe you know of another model that should be included? Let us know in the comments below.
If you’re looking for more affordable homages of iconic watches, check out our guide to top watches that look like Cartier Tank.