If you enjoy the newer ceramic subs, my easy answer is the Monta Oceanking. The build quality of a Monta is unmatched in the $2k-$4k space in my view. I also think they have their own look that doesn’t look derivative. They are like the king of micro brands but some might even call them a boutique brand at this point.

 

Omega Seamaster 2254.50

 

Omega Seamaster, all day every day.

 

 

I suppose there's ambiguity in the original post, but although Monta is Swiss Made, it's not Swiss as such...

 

"Best" in what regard? Omega Seamaster 300 (41mm) seems like an obvious contender, also the Tudor Black Bay.

Sinn 104 could be an option, but it isn't Swiss. Any reason for Swiss only?

 

Seamaster

 

Oris Aquis date on the cheaper end, Seamaster 300m or BB58 on the mid end.

 

Son of Rolex, a Tudor BB58, in variety of colors and in-house 70hr movement, under 48mm lug to lug

 

This is the correct answer. I had a 5-digit Sub and the BB58 was most similar in "feel" to it, down to the slightly cheap feeling bracelet.

 

I dont consider this an "alternative" since it's the one i preferred.

 

I dont consider this an "alternative" since it's the one i preferred.

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How do I upvote this post? Looks great on the wrist! The new omegas look so much more balanced with the date on the bottom center. Big thumbs up

 

I have a Rolex Submariner 41 and I still want to get a BB58 - for me, that’s the best alternative to a Sub.

 

I have the previous generation Submariner 114060, and I still got the original Tudor Black Bay after getting the Submariner.

 

@ejhc11 I think the bb58 models are 47.5mm lug to lug. @ffritz swiss is what I prefer and was curious on models with 40mm case or a little smaller with lug to lug 47mm or shorter. There's so many makers, I was curious if there were any I'm not aware of.

 

My mistake, just checked my BB58 measurements and it's 48mm measured by me. But if it helps my wrist is only 6.5" from that pic.

 

Norqain makes some good options.

 

I also agree with the vote for the BB58, you will smile everyday knowing you got a watch from the Rolex family that is great in quality and a whole lot less in price.

 

What's the best swiss alternative to the Rolex Submariner? Not necessarily the newer model of 41mm but the 80's 40mm or perhaps a tad smaller. Something with 47mm or less in lug to lug length. Just wanting to hear everyone's thoughts on if there's an not very well known maker or microbrand that might fit the bill!

Good question. To be clear are you open to dive watches that don't approximate the Rolex design? And a price range.

 

For a smaller Swiss diver I think you have to look at the Rado Captain Cook.

 

I always envy the Rado 37mm...! Classy and vintage feel... If I didn't have a BB58 it would be my 2nd choice...

 

On the higher end, check out the Glashutte Original SeaQ Automatic. Tag Heuer Aquaracer midrange.

 

Omega Seamaster Professional, Tudor BB58, Tudor Pelagos. Of those 3, Seamaster is the best, imho.

 

Steinhart for sure.

The Steinhart Ocean 39 Premium is made out of the same 904 stainless as the Rolex. I think it even looks a bit better with the display caseback.

 

Steinhart for sure.

The Steinhart Ocean 39 Premium is made out of the same 904 stainless as the Rolex. I think it even looks a bit better with the display caseback.
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Man, that Steinhart looks GREAT! I'm a quartz guy though. I sure wish most manufacturers would offer their watches with a quality quartz movement option.

 

The SMP300 likely has the Submariner beat at this point for quality, finishing, features, accuracy and certainly value. It’s arguably the better watch, but the Rolex won the marketing and reputation game.

 

Value...? Certainly not value retention.

As much as I enjoy both watches, I disagree that the SMP300 has better finishing. Accuracy may differ watch to watch in a comparison of a Sub and SMP together but each keep great time.

 

@John MS similar to the Rolex Submariner but it doesnt have to be a one to one. Preferably less than 2k. I had looked into Tudor but as stated before, the bb58 is 47.5mm lug to lug. I've had other watches over 47mm and they had overhang on either side. Had to constantly shift it back and forth trying to get it to be center on the wrist.

 

Ah you should've probably mentioned your budget first so other members wouldn't have suggested something out of your price range.

I'm not sure what you mean by alternative to the Rolex sub, but if you're looking for a diver in that price range, I'd take a look at Doxa, Oris, and Longines.

If it's the look of the Sub you're after, then I suggest Steinhart.

Finally, if you really want to save some money, I'd take a look at the Glycine Combat Subs.

 

As others have mentioned, Omega Seamaster 300 (a tad big) or Tudor BB58.

 

This Omega Seamaster without the funky HE valve all day, every day…

 

Came here to post this model. So, I'll just post the updated, 2021 version. You are right, this is the hottest SM.

 

The Rolex Sub runs $15k on the grey market.

Let's assume that you are talking about a classic looking, dive watch, on a bracelet, 40mm or less, under $15k

I'd go with the GO 39.5mm SeaQ

 

I'd go with the GO 39.5mm SeaQ

+1. A great watch for the price and easily on par with Rolex, IMHO.

 

Another vote for Omega Seamaster.

 

Chalk it up to hive mind or it really is the best answer but I think the consensus is solid; Monta ocean king, BB58, SMP depending on budget.