52 replies to this topic

[Daddy Bond]

OK, well since Bond watches have been discussed quite a bit of late, I have a question for our Bond experts on the list.

For me, being in graduate school with five children, an Omega watch is completely out of the question.

So, which watch or watches on the market look most like the Omega that Bond has been wearing in the recent movies with a price tag of under $300.00.

I'm serious. Any recommendations??? I prefer this style of watch, but want something better than a Guess, Fossil or Relic, but no where near as expensive as the Omega.

What's out there?

[HildebrandRarity]

Unfortuantely for you I have a 12 year old TAG-Heuer.

It, however, cost me about $1,400 a dozen years ago and looks just as good swimming or playing tennis as it does going out to a black tie affair for work.

But looking forward to seeing what others come up with.

[Double-0-7]

Invicta makes a hell of a good dive watch. I had an automatic for years, then bought one of their Swiss quartz watches and have found them both to be very good. Here is a fairly high-end watch that you might like - but browse around the site to see more. They have a black dive watch that looks like Connery's Rolex Submariner too.
http://www.worldofwa...UzjIUddEpiZoHew

I think this one is mine, but the color doesn't look quite right.
http://www.amazon.co...-...6870&sr=1-8

[Daddy Bond]

Invicta makes a hell of a good dive watch. I had an automatic for years, then bought one of their Swiss quartz watches and have found them both to be very good. Here is a fairly high-end watch that you might like - but browse around the site to see more. They have a black dive watch that looks like Connery's Rolex Submariner too.
http://www.worldofwa...UzjIUddEpiZoHew

I think this one is mine, but the color doesn't look quite right.
http://www.amazon.co...-...6870&sr=1-8

Hmmm, the Invicta Submariner looks promising.

Invicta makes a hell of a good dive watch. I had an automatic for years, then bought one of their Swiss quartz watches and have found them both to be very good. Here is a fairly high-end watch that you might like - but browse around the site to see more. They have a black dive watch that looks like Connery's Rolex Submariner too.
http://www.worldofwa...UzjIUddEpiZoHew

I think this one is mine, but the color doesn't look quite right.
http://www.amazon.co...-...6870&sr=1-8

Hmmm, the Invicta Submariner looks promising.

So does the Invicta Pro Diver

[Double-0-7]

Invicta makes a hell of a good dive watch. I had an automatic for years, then bought one of their Swiss quartz watches and have found them both to be very good. Here is a fairly high-end watch that you might like - but browse around the site to see more. They have a black dive watch that looks like Connery's Rolex Submariner too.
http://www.worldofwa...UzjIUddEpiZoHew

I think this one is mine, but the color doesn't look quite right.
http://www.amazon.co...-...6870&sr=1-8

Hmmm, the Invicta Submariner looks promising.

Invicta makes a hell of a good dive watch. I had an automatic for years, then bought one of their Swiss quartz watches and have found them both to be very good. Here is a fairly high-end watch that you might like - but browse around the site to see more. They have a black dive watch that looks like Connery's Rolex Submariner too.
http://www.worldofwa...UzjIUddEpiZoHew

I think this one is mine, but the color doesn't look quite right.
http://www.amazon.co...-...6870&sr=1-8

Hmmm, the Invicta Submariner looks promising.

So does the Invicta Pro Diver

I wear mine everywhere - nothing bothers it because it is all stainless steel and rated to 200M.

I believe Darkpath received a black submariner for his birthday - maybe an automatic. We'll see how he likes it after owning it for several months.

[Daddy Bond]

I'm definitely going to get one of these watches (unless someone has another suggestion). This style of watch is my favorite (I have always worn the steele with a blue face) but have been religated to the $75 watches that look fine, but not great, these Invictas look more promising.

[darkpath]

I actually have two Invicta Pro Diver watches, both automatics, in two completely different styles. I'm quite pleased with both of them. The smaller, black model, somewhat resembles a Rolex Submariner with its coin edge rotating bezel, the fonts used for its numbering, and the design of the bracelet. The larger blue model doesn't quite resemble any of Bond's watches over the years; but it's dressy, solid, and rugged. Both are good down to 200 metres. (See attached image)

Invicta has started offering some of their divers watches in 300 metre capability; but if that's a feature you're looking for, you'll need to verify that the specific model you're consider qualifies.

Invicta does have models with a rotating bezel that is a close match to the design used by Omega and some with bracelets that are similar to the Omega. Regrettably, in my quick search, I didn't find one that combined both design features in the same watch quite the way I had hoped. On the other hand, Invicta changes their designs all the time, so even if they don't make the exact combination you want, it's just a waiting game until they do.
J170475 - Invicta Men's Stainless Steel Lupah Diver Chronograph Bracelet Watch
J170750 - Invicta Men's Grand Diver Stainless Steel Automatic Bracelet Watch
J174565 - Invicta Men's Swiss Pro Diver Master Chronograph Stainless Steel Watch
J170896 - Invicta Men's Diver Lupah Stainless Steel Chronograph Bracelet Watch
J173370 - Invicta Signature Collection Men's Sapphire Diver Watch

Attached Files

•  MY_INVICTAS.JPG   337.27KB   16 downloads

[Daddy Bond]

I actually have two Invicta Pro Diver watches, both automatics, in two completely different styles. I'm quite pleased with both of them. The smaller, black model, somewhat resembles a Rolex Submariner with its coin edge rotating bezel, the fonts used for its numbering, and the design of the bracelet. The larger blue model doesn't quite resemble any of Bond's watches over the years; but it's dressy, solid, and rugged. Both are good down to 200 metres. (See attached image)

Invicta has started offering some of their divers watches in 300 metre capability; but if that's a feature you're looking for, you'll need to verify that the specific model you're consider qualifies.

Invicta does have models with a rotating bezel that is a close match to the design used by Omega and some with bracelets that are similar to the Omega. Regrettably, in my quick search, I didn't find one that combined both design features in the same watch quite the way I had hoped. On the other hand, Invicta changes their designs all the time, so even if they don't make the exact combination you want, it's just a waiting game until they do.
J170475 - Invicta Men's Stainless Steel Lupah Diver Chronograph Bracelet Watch
J170750 - Invicta Men's Grand Diver Stainless Steel Automatic Bracelet Watch
J174565 - Invicta Men's Swiss Pro Diver Master Chronograph Stainless Steel Watch
J170896 - Invicta Men's Diver Lupah Stainless Steel Chronograph Bracelet Watch
J173370 - Invicta Signature Collection Men's Sapphire Diver Watch

I think I'm sold. So far, from what I've seen in these pictures, this brand matches my taste and my wallet. Nice pics! Thanks!

[Daddy Bond]

By the way, here's a pic of my $40 watch (it was on sale at Kohl's). Not too bad looking IMO.  Relic.jpg   26.67KB   35 downloads

[Chad Cooper]

Oris watches are good and affordable. Victorinox Swiss Army too.

http://www.orolus.co...mp;search_logo=
http://www.orolus.co...mp;search_logo=

Edited by Mister Asterix, 13 May 2008 - 07:11 PM.

[OO4]

I gotta say that for the price, I've become a big fan of Casio. That's right, wal-mart cheap watch. It's just taken so much punishment through my job I have to swear by them. I have a few coworkers who're still wearing the ones they used in Iraq. I know they aren't the best looking for all situations, but they'll damn near take a bullet.

PS:

If it doesn't show, I have a bad habit of getting almost anything I wear destroyed.

Edited by OO4, 22 February 2008 - 08:54 PM.

[Double-0-7]

By the way, here's a pic of my $40 watch (it was on sale at Kohl's). Not too bad looking IMO.  Relic.jpg   26.67KB   35 downloads

I like the band a lot!

[DBL07]

Two watches that must be owned by all Bond fans of modest means are the Invicta Off-Shore Pro Diver model #4793 which is Invicta's homage to the Omega Planet Ocean
(less than $200), and the Invicta Pro Diver model #8926 ($100.00) which is virtually identical to the Rolex Submariner. I own both these watches and their quality is remarkable for their price. They can be found at Overstock.com and ShopNBC.com

[darkpath]

You may want, if you haven't already made your purchase, to consider J170750 - Invicta Men's Grand Diver Stainless Steel Automatic Bracelet Watch

Choices: Black dial with green bezel or silver-tone dial with blue bezel

This grand creation has a round stainless steel case with an exhibition back and a unidirectional rotating bezel. Features of the round dial include a magnified date window at 3:00 and silver-tone luminous markers at all remaining hour positions. This stunner also has silver-tone luminous hour, minute and sweeping second hands.

Bracelet: Stainless steel bracelet
Movement: Automatic movement
Crystal: Mineral crystal
Crown: Screw down crown
Clasp: Flip lock clasp
Bracelet Measurements: 9"L x 22mm
Case Measurements: 47mm
Water Resistance: 30 ATM - 300 meters - 1,000 ft
Model Numbers:
Black/green: IN3047
Silver-tone/blue: IN3046
Warranty: One year limited warranty provided by Invicta with the option to extend the warranty to a total of five years

[sidspappy]

From what I can remember, Invicta models using the Japanese 21-jewel automatic movements are made by Miyota, the parent company of Citizen watches. Several Citizen watches use this identical movement, and their reputation is rock-solid. Accuracy is exceptional for the price. Invicta fit and finish cannot compete with contemporary companies in competing price range, such as Citizen and Seiko. However, quality is adequate, and frankly is a better use of your dollar than buying a consumable brand like the Casios and Timexes of your average department store.

FWIW, I generally eschew me-too knockoffs, preferring real reputation for quality instead of a Bond watch clone. I favor Seikos exclusively, and their automatic 7S26 movement Diver's models in particular. I am wearing a yellow-faced SKXA35 right now. It is known for being bulletproof, and will last for many years without letting you down. Accuracy is average for an automatic, but for your dollar, there is little competition.

[Daddy Bond]

I've picked out an Invicta that I plan on buying with my tax return money.

Here's the one I picked...

 Invicta_Mens_II_Mult_Function_Diver_2925.jpg   24.55KB   32 downloads

I've picked out an Invicta that I plan on buying with my tax return money.

Here's the one I picked...

 Invicta_Mens_II_Mult_Function_Diver_2925.jpg   24.55KB   32 downloads

And it's only $125!!!

[Rogue_00]

Bourne's Tag Heuer. Link Chronograph.

[Daddy Bond]

Bourne's Tag Heuer. Link Chronograph.

Nice watches indeed. Only I can buy my Invicta and save about $1,000. I was looking for bang for my buck.

[Roebuck]

On the watch forum I lurk at they've been having a discussion about quality dive watches for guys on a budget, and somebody mentioned the Ocean-1 from a Swiss firm called Debaufre. Looks like a Submariner knock-off but if you check the specifications it's a serious bit of kit. At just over $400 it won't put much of a strain on the bank account and you're unlikely to see anybody else you know wearing one.

http://store.debaufr...o-dw.01.07b.htm

[Double-0-7]

On the watch forum I lurk at they've been having a discussion about quality dive watches for guys on a budget, and somebody mentioned the Ocean-1 from a Swiss firm called Debaufre. Looks like a Submariner knock-off but if you check the specifications it's a serious bit of kit. At just over $400 it won't put much of a strain on the bank account and you're unlikely to see anybody else you know wearing one.

http://store.debaufr...o-dw.01.07b.htm

Very Submariner-looking, and the specs are serious: Swiss 25 jewel movement are the magic words in automatic watches.

[Trident]

If we're talking about rugged service 'tool'-watches with big luminious dials for a reasonable price, take a look at Traser watches:

http://www.traserh3w.../home/index.php

They have a variety of professional models with both quartz and 25 jewels automatic movements. Diver models are water resistant up to 660 feet. Multi function Chronograph models are available too. They are, of course, in no way as fashionable, prestigious and nifty as Rolex, Breitling or Omega. But if I were to need a reliable no-nonsense timepiece that might see service as a knuckle-duster in a Spectre operative's face, I know I'd stake my money most likely on one of those.

[Double-0-7]

If we're talking about rugged service 'tool'-watches with big luminious dials for a reasonable price, take a look at Traser watches:

http://www.traserh3w.../home/index.php

They have a variety of professional models with both quartz and 25 jewels automatic movements. Diver models are water resistant up to 660 feet. Multi function Chronograph models are available too. They are, of course, in no way as fashionable, prestigious and nifty as Rolex, Breitling or Omega. But if I were to need a reliable no-nonsense timepiece that might see service as a knuckle-duster in a Spectre operative's face, I know I'd stake my money most likely on one of those.

Certainly not as prestigious as the big-buck names, but there are some attractive watches in their line. Good find!

[Daddy Bond]

On the watch forum I lurk at they've been having a discussion about quality dive watches for guys on a budget, and somebody mentioned the Ocean-1 from a Swiss firm called Debaufre. Looks like a Submariner knock-off but if you check the specifications it's a serious bit of kit. At just over $400 it won't put much of a strain on the bank account and you're unlikely to see anybody else you know wearing one.

http://store.debaufr...o-dw.01.07b.htm

Nice looking watch indeed!

[Daddy Bond]

Actually, I found a watch I like quite a lot. The picture does not do it justice, and I would have not tried looking for this brand. But here is the watch I ended up purchasing for around $100...

 PF3681.jpg   15.77KB   38 downloads

I am happy with it and actually looks quite nice.

This is a Pulsar. One of the things I liked about it was the band. It reminded me of the Omega a bit.

[Four Aces]

Daddy Bond

Take a look at the mechanical watches from Hamilton. They have become popular with troops overseas being that you can't always find a battery replacement shop in Iraq or Afghanistan. They are reliable and low cost.

[Daddy Bond]

Actually, I found a watch I like quite a lot. The picture does not do it justice, and I would have not tried looking for this brand. But here is the watch I ended up purchasing for around $100...

 PF3681.jpg   15.77KB   38 downloads

I am happy with it and actually looks quite nice.

This is a Pulsar. One of the things I liked about it was the band. It reminded me of the Omega a bit.

Does anyone else think this bears a nice resemblance to the Omega Seamaster?

Actually, I found a watch I like quite a lot. The picture does not do it justice, and I would have not tried looking for this brand. But here is the watch I ended up purchasing for around $100...

 PF3681.jpg   15.77KB   38 downloads

I am happy with it and actually looks quite nice.

This is a Pulsar. One of the things I liked about it was the band. It reminded me of the Omega a bit.

Does anyone else think this bears a nice resemblance to the Omega Seamaster?

And for around $100. Not bad if you ask me.

[chuck3]

Here is a good-looking Invicta. Looks like the 50th anniversary Rolex Submariner:
http://www.shopnbc.c..._-CS1-_-J173485

[HildebrandRarity]

Here is a good-looking Invicta. Looks like the 50th anniversary Rolex Submariner:
http://www.shopnbc.c..._-CS1-_-J173485

These pricks have a lot of imagination, don't they... They might as well have gone whole hog on the rip-off by doing black-on-black.

[Daddy Bond]

Indeed, pretty close to the Rolex visually. Might fool some at a few paces.

[chuck3]

Here is a good-looking Invicta. Looks like the 50th anniversary Rolex Submariner:
http://www.shopnbc.c..._-CS1-_-J173485

These pricks have a lot of imagination, don't they... They might as well have gone whole hog on the rip-off by doing black-on-black.

Geez HR. Didn't mean to rub you the wrong way! You're obviously not an Invicta Fan!