Why is "everything" just an Rolex alternative?
I'm pretty sick of hearing this, especially in YouTube-Land. Just because it's round, it tells time and you can wear it on your wrist.
I love the new Aqua Terra and it's on the top of my list at the moment. But I feel that it's gets deminished when it's only talked about as an Oyster Perpetual alternative. And there are some who mislike this release because it steals the idea of having colors on the dial from Rolex?!
The latest OP line-up isn't dominated by crisp colors. The one before had a lot of mat pastell colors. The one before that had some heavy sunburst action going on.
So no colors on the dial. That is Rolex. No sunburst. That is Rolex. Simple dial layout? Nope, that to belongs to Rolex according to the snobs.
This new Omega isn't the only victim to this. And I'm sick of it. Take the Railmaster. Stunning watch with history. It's just a Explorer alternative now 😢 BB36? Explorer alternative. Pada dial? Daytona....
I can get I Rolex for the price of a new Aqua Terra. Even one of the classics I like, but Rolex is becomming a bigger turn off for each day that passes.
lets face it, most people looking for “rolex” alternatives arent really the “watch enthusiast/collector” type and since most people only know rolex when it comes to luxury watches and they are nowehere to be found, its natural that the normies will tend to look for their alternatives
but most of us here know damn well Rolex is nothing special nor innovative
lets face it, most people looking for “rolex” alternatives arent really the “watch enthusiast/collector” type and since most people only know rolex when it comes to luxury watches and they are nowehere to be found, its natural that the normies will tend to look for their alternatives
but most of us here know damn well Rolex is nothing special nor innovative
They were innovative at some point. Now they stand for tradtion. But other watches must be free to borrow from classic and traditional design.
And Rolex isn't guiltfree if borrowing is a crime. My favorite Rolex is the Oyster Quartz 👌 I would love it in blue. Bit that design is borrowed from Gerald Genta and the Royal Oak.
Look...I like Rolex. They make amazing watches. But the whole scene around that damn brand has gotten obnoxiously out of control. Rolex has now become a status symbol. It's no longer about the actual watch. They cost 2 to even 4 or 5 times what they're worth with waiting lists as long as my brothers rap sheet. To tell you the truth...what was once a watch I really wanted has become one I really don't anymore because....well...IM JUST SICK OF IT TOO.
Totally agree, bud. I usually don't listen to watch snobs as they are irredeemably steeped in their own pro-Rolex and/or pro-luxury watch confirmation biases. I couldn't care less what they say, or of their slanted opinions. Theirs is but just that-- an opinion. Some also do this for click bait, which earns them a living. That I get and can respect from a biz standpoint. Some though, to be fair, do this to educate most people, and open their eyes to the bigger world of time pieces.
Each watch is inherently unique and should be appreciated for what it is. If one doesn't like a watch, and another does, then to each his own. Sneering or jeering each other's choices is simply immature, fit for street side kids play.
But in commerce/ business though, product comparison is part of the game.
So, if you are ticked off by some YT-ers, then call them out in the comment section of their video, and see what happens. Or, simply don't waste your time any more on watching their videos.
Look...I like Rolex. They make amazing watches. But the whole scene around that damn brand has gotten obnoxiously out of control. Rolex has now become a status symbol. It's no longer about the actual watch. They cost 2 to even 4 or 5 times what they're worth with waiting lists as long as my brothers rap sheet. To tell you the truth...what was once a watch I really wanted has become one I really don't anymore because....well...IM JUST SICK OF IT TOO.
Sad that it has become this way..
Totally agree, bud. I usually don't listen to watch snobs as they are irredeemably steeped in their own pro-Rolex and/or pro-luxury watch confirmation biases. I couldn't care less what they say, or of their slanted opinions. Theirs is but just that-- an opinion. Some also do this for click bait, which earns them a living. That I get and can respect from a biz standpoint. Some though, to be fair, do this to educate most people, and open their eyes to the bigger world of time pieces.
Each watch is inherently unique and should be appreciated for what it is. If one doesn't like a watch, and another does, then to each his own. Sneering or jeering each other's choices is simply immature, fit for street side kids play.
But in commerce/ business though, product comparison is part of the game.
So, if you are ticked off by some YT-ers, then call them out in the comment section of their video, and see what happens. Or, simply don't waste your time any more on watching their videos.
Comparison is fine. Like getting a car. What reputation does the brands have and what are the differences in the price bracket.
Not: this is a killer Fiat Alternative 🤣
And youtube comments? Nah! I don't think there have been either productive or inteligent discussion on there for the last 10 years..
I'd say maybe because of brilliant marketing instinct of the brand. Also I cannot talk for others but I have recently done a video with alternatives to the Explorer. In my case the reason I made it is because I was asked to. My favorite watch is the iconic Rolex Explorer 1016 and managed to get the latest Explorer back in 36mm size against all odds as the price was not in my usual budget range. It is also unlikely I will have other watch from this brand. While my search for a watch of the Explorer type that I could afford I came across a lot of alternatives but I admit that while a lot of them imitated, copied or draw inspiration from, I recognize that not few are totally their own watch, in design and overall concept. In the video thus I stated that some "field - exploring" watches are competitors rather than alternatives, but sometimes the definition is unclear. I read alternative as having an option to a desired type of watch. I myself will not diminish any watch from being an alternative to any other watch. Sometimes the alternatives can be even better than the original proposed watch. But it is true that for many Rolex is a status symbol, so maybe is the reason I rather say "my Explorer" than "my Rolex" :)
All watch designs originated from somewhere and have been copied to certain degrees over and over again. To say they all originated from Rolex or another high end watch companies is just ludicrous, no matter the watch brand they have all borrowed from each other at some point.
Personally a Rolex is not on my grail watch list, I would be more inclined like yourself, the new Omega 38mm Aqua Terra is what I'm aiming for, such a gorgeous watch and with Omega's history and build quality I think I have chosen wisely.
Like yourself also, I can't stand and appal watch snobbery, luckily we don't see that here on WC or I would delete my account in seconds. True watch enthusiasts appreciate all watches no matter their price point or manufacturer, movements ect.. I see people here get enjoyment and others appreciate their choices, from their $50 Ali Express homages right trough to those who can afford and have a Rolex or two in their own collections, no snobbery here.
As for YT reviewers, take whatever they say, review and their opinions with a grain of salt, they are just that and us true watch collectors know this, their just opinions. If they want to refer to a new release from Traska lets say, as a good cheap alternative to a Rolex Explorer, then their really only giving Traska good media coverage. As we see it, Traska make fantastic watches and while yes there is elements of the Rolex Explorer style in their watches, they are there own design and not a copy. They must be doing something right, to buy one you need to join a waiting list.
As I said earlier it would be totally impossible to bring out a new watch no matter the design without someone comparing it to another, that's the way it has always been and always will and it's not just in the watch world, it's everywhere. So my advise, if the title of the video has the words "Comparison" or "alternative to" then just don't watch 💯
Yes, I have seen that too on many YT watch channels. And it starts to get annoying.
Also GS is labeled in 80% of the cases just as an alternative.
I'd say maybe because of brilliant marketing instinct of the brand. Also I cannot talk for others but I have recently done a video with alternatives to the Explorer. In my case the reason I made it is because I was asked to. My favorite watch is the iconic Rolex Explorer 1016 and managed to get the latest Explorer back in 36mm size against all odds as the price was not in my usual budget range. It is also unlikely I will have other watch from this brand. While my search for a watch of the Explorer type that I could afford I came across a lot of alternatives but I admit that while a lot of them imitated, copied or draw inspiration from, I recognize that not few are totally their own watch, in design and overall concept. In the video thus I stated that some "field - exploring" watches are competitors rather than alternatives, but sometimes the definition is unclear. I read alternative as having an option to a desired type of watch. I myself will not diminish any watch from being an alternative to any other watch. Sometimes the alternatives can be even better than the original proposed watch. But it is true that for many Rolex is a status symbol, so maybe is the reason I rather say "my Explorer" than "my Rolex" :)
I saw your video as your journey and there is nothing wrong with that ☺️ Nothing wrong with Rolex or having/wanting a Rolex. Nothing wrong with wanting certain qualities in a watch that can be found in other iconic watches!
My issue is that it sometimes seems like the whole watch discussion is based on Rolex. And it can sound like any watch is just a derivative of Rolex. And that Rolex is the origin og peak og all watches and watchmaking.
This post was not triggered or inspired by your video. I like that video a lot. I also want to say that I'm fine with homages for the most part. It's just when every watch needs to pulled into the Rolex alternative discussion I lose it 🤣
I was hanging out a few days ago at my AD, chatting with the sales guy. He loves GS, and I just picked one up, so I wanted to show it to him (they don't sell GS). However, they sell Rolex, Omega, IWC, Tudor, Hublot, and a few others.
I must have been in there for 45 minutes, and my best guess is about 40 people entered and left the store at that time. Every single one of them was there for Rolex (which they have zero of), and nothing else.
These watches are Rolex alternatives because that's how they sell them. Sadly, they didn't have any 2022 Omega's either, and they were sold out of the Tudor sports watches. But the reason for that is when they are in stock, every Rolex buyer is shown them as an alternative.
A lot of people who purchase these things, do so to remember a special occasion. A graduation, wedding, promotion, whatever. No one wants to wait a year, and all they know is Rolex. It's a lot easier to get them into something else if it looks a lot like a Rolex, and they can get it now.
So I get why you don't like it, but Omega loves it. That's how they sell watches.
On YT I think most of the phrase ”alternative to Rolex” is used only as clickbait. Whatever watch you are showing, using the R-Word, increases the interest. A sad story. The watch they are presenting could often stand on it’s own merits.
All watch designs originated from somewhere and have been copied to certain degrees over and over again. To say they all originated from Rolex or another high end watch companies is just ludicrous, no matter the watch brand they have all borrowed from each other at some point.
Personally a Rolex is not on my grail watch list, I would be more inclined like yourself, the new Omega 38mm Aqua Terra is what I'm aiming for, such a gorgeous watch and with Omega's history and build quality I think I have chosen wisely.
Like yourself also, I can't stand and appal watch snobbery, luckily we don't see that here on WC or I would delete my account in seconds. True watch enthusiasts appreciate all watches no matter their price point or manufacturer, movements ect.. I see people here get enjoyment and others appreciate their choices, from their $50 Ali Express homages right trough to those who can afford and have a Rolex or two in their own collections, no snobbery here.
As for YT reviewers, take whatever they say, review and their opinions with a grain of salt, they are just that and us true watch collectors know this, their just opinions. If they want to refer to a new release from Traska lets say, as a good cheap alternative to a Rolex Explorer, then their really only giving Traska good media coverage. As we see it, Traska make fantastic watches and while yes there is elements of the Rolex Explorer style in their watches, they are there own design and not a copy. They must be doing something right, to buy one you need to join a waiting list.
As I said earlier it would be totally impossible to bring out a new watch no matter the design without someone comparing it to another, that's the way it has always been and always will and it's not just in the watch world, it's everywhere. So my advise, if the title of the video has the words "Comparison" or "alternative to" then just don't watch 💯
The new AT and OP would be a good comparison if you could get a OP at retail and not wait for god knows how long. Then there would be two reputable companies with history. Like two equals in the luxury field?
Yes, I have seen that too on many YT watch channels. And it starts to get annoying.
Also GS is labeled in 80% of the cases just as an alternative.
I saw your video as your journey and there is nothing wrong with that ☺️ Nothing wrong with Rolex or having/wanting a Rolex. Nothing wrong with wanting certain qualities in a watch that can be found in other iconic watches!
My issue is that it sometimes seems like the whole watch discussion is based on Rolex. And it can sound like any watch is just a derivative of Rolex. And that Rolex is the origin og peak og all watches and watchmaking.
This post was not triggered or inspired by your video. I like that video a lot. I also want to say that I'm fine with homages for the most part. It's just when every watch needs to pulled into the Rolex alternative discussion I lose it 🤣
Yes I know, only wanted to explain my personal perspective about what sometimes might be the case when searching for alternatives and sometimes we all fall into the trap and I appreciate your original post as a way for us to think twice about what we do or how others perceive the way we interact :)
There is no $75 alternative to Rolex. Just like when Reactor, 10+ years ago when they were in Dillards, had the catch phrase to compare Reactor to Rolex and claimed to be comparable. There simply is no comparison except both are watches, both round, etc. Fit, finish, performance, desirability, etc. Only those who have never experienced Rolex on a daily basis think otherwise.
Guess I should have added a smiley to indicate sarcasm about people educated by YT believing such things as a $75 alternative to Rolex... 😉
While I understand the continuous measure against Rolex, the comparison conversation has gotten very exhausting. It's a powerful brand with great products and textbook-worthy brand strategy/marketing history. However, other manufacturers have their own rightful claim to fame as well. Rolex will always have the Sub, Omega will always have the Speedmaster, etc, etc. No brand can unseat another's place at the table for true and unique contributions to the watch world. Things can be borrowed, stolen, and/or "improved" upon, but in my opinion, a particular brand's impact is fixed.
Is Rolex the "best"? Depends on what you are asking about. I certainly believe they're the best at convincing others that they are. I also believe they're pretty much untouchable regarding brand establishment and marketing prowess. Do they make the best watches? Not necessarily. There are more finely finished options as well as more durable options out there. Do they make the best luxury watches? Well, I would say for a watch they are becoming increasingly the best at being an "inessential, desirable item which is expensive or difficult to obtain."
While I understand the continuous measure against Rolex, the comparison conversation has gotten very exhausting. It's a powerful brand with great products and textbook-worthy brand strategy/marketing history. However, other manufacturers have their own rightful claim to fame as well. Rolex will always have the Sub, Omega will always have the Speedmaster, etc, etc. No brand can unseat another's place at the table for true and unique contributions to the watch world. Things can be borrowed, stolen, and/or "improved" upon, but in my opinion, a particular brand's impact is fixed.
Is Rolex the "best"? Depends on what you are asking about. I certainly believe they're the best at convincing others that they are. I also believe they're pretty much untouchable regarding brand establishment and marketing prowess. Do they make the best watches? Not necessarily. There are more finely finished options as well as more durable options out there. Do they make the best luxury watches? Well, I would say for a watch they are becoming increasingly the best at being an "inessential, desirable item which is expensive or difficult to obtain."
Insightful 🙂 Can't disagree with you.
Because some are ____________________ alternatives, although poor at it.
Full Disclosure I've owned, and even given as gifts many Rolex. These days I only like and own Explorer models. All things stated in this post are true and great. Omega, Grand Seiko, and Zenith are the only commercial manufacturers IMO making great new movement tech and case design. Omega is absolutely brilliant.
Nothing against Rolex itself. I only wish to be able to read an article about GS or Omega without it being through the Rolex lense 🧐 They are their own masters ☺️
AT is no OP alternative.
There is no such boring and plain AT available, that could be an alternative to an OP.
AT is no OP alternative.
There is no such boring and plain AT available, that could be an alternative to an OP.
The new ones have somewhat similar dials to some OPs from a couple of years ago. To be fair ☺️ But still
Full Disclosure I've owned, and even given as gifts many Rolex. These days I only like and own Explorer models. All things stated in this post are true and great. Omega, Grand Seiko, and Zenith are the only commercial manufacturers IMO making great new movement tech and case design. Omega is absolutely brilliant.
I need to other people around me 🤣 "given Rolex as gift". Yes please 🙏
Even as a self professed rolex fan boy it annoys me. I was scrolling through the ol' youtube and came across "7 Daytona alternatives" and number one was the Omega Speedmaster. Are you taking the mickey? The Speedmaster is what the Daytona WISHES it could be
That might be true. There was that one time Rolex tried something new, and that was an Royal Oak rip off, The Oyster Quartz. The coolest Rolex IMO 😍
Because Rolex is the benchmark.
I saw your video as your journey and there is nothing wrong with that ☺️ Nothing wrong with Rolex or having/wanting a Rolex. Nothing wrong with wanting certain qualities in a watch that can be found in other iconic watches!
My issue is that it sometimes seems like the whole watch discussion is based on Rolex. And it can sound like any watch is just a derivative of Rolex. And that Rolex is the origin og peak og all watches and watchmaking.
This post was not triggered or inspired by your video. I like that video a lot. I also want to say that I'm fine with homages for the most part. It's just when every watch needs to pulled into the Rolex alternative discussion I lose it 🤣
Annoying...
totaly agree with you. And these gold sunburst dials are definitly my favourit. like the dial on the seiko pogue. but there are rare in the market.
Thanks for the tip ☺️
That might be true. There was that one time Rolex tried something new, and that was an Royal Oak rip off, The Oyster Quartz. The coolest Rolex IMO 😍
I think it is true. Apparent rolex made the daytona originally as the cosmograph, hoping nasa would take it to space. Nasa went with the omega instead