Affordable quality watches available on AliExpress
If you're looking for affordable yet high-quality watches, AliExpress is a treasure trove - but it can also be a minefield. In this guide, I'll break down the best budget watches on AliExpress, covering their pros, cons, and whether they're worth your hard-earned cash.
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Why Buy Watches on AliExpress?
Best Budget AliExpress Watches (2025)
1. San Martin Submariner Homage (SN017-G)
Price: ~$150-$200
Movement: Seiko NH35 (reliable automatic)
Why Buy?
- One of the best-built homage watches
- Sapphire crystal and 200m water resistance
Downside: Long shipping times
2. Sea-Gull 1963 (Reissue Chronograph)
Price: ~$100-$160
Movement: Manual-wind Sea-Gull ST19
Why Buy?
- Legendary Chinese chronograph
- Vintage military styling
Downside: Acrylic crystal
3. Addiesdive AD2030 – Desert Sand Dial
Price: ~$50–$70
Movement: Seiko VH31 (Mecha-Quartz)
Why Buy?
- Unique desert dune textured dial
- High-beat sweep movement
- 316L stainless steel case with screw-down crown and case back
- 100m water resistance
Downside: Branding text on dial may detract from minimalist design, but you can find ones without the logo
What to Watch Out For
- Replicas vs. Homages - Know the difference between legal homages and counterfeit watches
- Shipping & Returns - Can take 3-6 weeks with complicated return policies
- Movement Matters - Stick with known movements (NH35, PT5000, ST19) for reliability
→ Complete AliExpress Watch Buying Guide
Final Verdict
If you're okay with a gamble, AliExpress offers unbeatable value for budget watches. Brands like San Martin, Sea-Gull, and Pagani Design deliver impressive quality for the price. Just research sellers, check reviews, and avoid obvious fakes.
Have you bought a watch from AliExpress? Share your experience in the comments!