In the world of watches, Rolex models are something between a sports car, a heritage mansion and a status symbol. You either have them or you dream about them. And while your bank account is inconsolably silent, Timex is discreetly smiling from behind the scenes – with three Timex watch models that don't try to be Rolex, but look like they could be.
Nowadays, when a wristwatch is often more about style than the need for accuracy, it is Timex created a few models – Timex watches that with convincing design, functionality and price They make sure that everyone can imagine, at least for a moment, that they are on their way to a yacht – even if they are just going to Hofer to get sour cream.
We present to you three extremely affordable watches – all the way down to around 100 € – who draw inspiration from prestigious Rolex Submariner, GMT-Master II and Day-Date/Datejust models. Let's see how far you can go with looks... and a few euros.
Timex Harborside Coast 44mm – when you want a Submariner but not a mortgage
A watch that screams "diver" but doesn't sink you into debt. On the list are Timex watches that are almost like the Rolex Submariner.
If you've always dreamed of Rolex Submariner, but at the same time you swear by rationality (or you have a car loan), then it is Timex Harborside Coast the right choice. At first glance, it's almost a Submariner: rotating bezel, “Mercedes” pointer, a magnifying window above the date... Only the cheaper materials and the quartz movement betray that this is not Swiss prestige.
But that's not necessarily a bad thing. For less than €150 you get waterproof, robust and visually impressive watch, which you can wear to the beach, to the office, or on a Tinder date (by the way, most people don't even know what a Submariner is – but the shiny steel watch makes an impression).
✅ Why she is a winner:
For the price of a good lunch for two, you get a watch that looks like you just sold a startup.
Timex Q Reissue 38mm – the people's “Pepsi” with a retro soul
Vintage chic with a 70s flavor and a colored bezel that immediately says: “I know what I’m wearing.” On the list are Timex watches that are almost like the Rolex GMT-Master II “Pepsi”.
This hour is the ultimate tribute to a classic: Rolex GMT-Master II “Pepsi”. And although the Timex Q Reissue does not have an actual GMT indicator, many people from a distance will say: “Wow, is that…?” No, it’s not. But it looks great.
In addition to the iconic red-and-blue bezel, it offers a retro design, a metal “mesh” bracelet and a quartz movement that doesn’t complicate things. The watch also has that indispensable “Q” mark – a kind of old-school confirmation that you’re at least half-cool. And if anyone else misses it? Just roll up your sleeve and show off the bezel.
✅ Why it impresses:
It's like an old VW Beetle that drives like a dream - retro, affordable and with character. In the style of: "I know it's not a Rolex. But it's a Timex Q, my friend." For about 200 euros!
Timex Legacy Day-Date 41mm – “presidential” from Java
A watch that looks like your grandfather gave you for your graduation... but he forgot to mention that it's not a Rolex.
Model Legacy Day-Date brings that soft sparkle of elegance, characteristic of Rolex Datejust or Day-Date “President”. It has day inscription at the top, date at 3 o'clock and characteristic "cyclops" magnifier, which also makes Wednesday sound more important.
The design is polished, the bracelet is surprisingly comfortable, and the overall look is… clean. daddy luxe. The watch looks much more prestigious than it costs. And if someone says to you: “Uh, President?” You just nod and say: “Biden wears one too. Timex, of course.”
✅ Why it convinces:
A watch for everyone who wants to look like CEO of your destiny, but a monthly subscription for Netflix, not for Bentley. For just under 169 euros!
Conclusion: Timex watches… Rolex in appearance, Timex in soul
In short? Rolex is a dream. Timex is a reality that doesn't hurt. And that's exactly why he's wonderful.
With these three models, Timex proves that good design is not reserved only for five-figure prices. That even a “people’s” watch can look like a million euros – without taking a toll on your wallet. Are these perfect copies? No. Are they functional, beautiful and extremely affordable alternatives? Absolutely.
So, if you want a watch that won't cause panic when it falls to the ground, but will still exude some prestige – you now have three very good choices.
And as the old watchmaking proverb says: Better a good Timex on your wrist than a Rolex in the window of a… store.
