7 Best Rolex Daytona Alternatives You Can Actually Buy

If there was one watch to define the last decade it would be the Rolex Daytona. Introduced in 1963, the legendary racing chronograph has since seen many variations, iterations and references come out of the crown-faced maison, yet with the same almost instantly identifiable aesthetic that makes it both stand out from its peers and blend into the sea of faring chronographs.

The Rolex Daytona's infamy is comparable, perhaps best portrayed by the introduction of the revered Daytona reference 116500LN which was released in 2016 and was the first model to have a ceramic bezel, much to the decade-long fan fare and clambering of the watch community as a collective. Jumping into 2023 and Rolex unveiled a revised version of the 116500LN with the 126500LN, with collectors again joining quote-unquote years-long wait lists.

Is there an alternative? Of course there is, as there always has been. And we can partly thank the Daytona's dominance for these alternatives, where brands felt the tug on their sleeve to come up with something comparable, competitive and, dare I say it, accessible.

Here are 7 of the best Rolex Daytona alternatives that you can actually buy direct from the brand's website.

Zenith Chronomaster Sport

• Brand: Zenith

• Model: Chronomaster Sport

• Reference: 03.3100.3600/21.M3100

• Case: 41mm

• Case Material: Stainless Steel

• Water Resistance: 100m

• Calibre: El Primero 3600

• Frequency: 5 Hz

• Power Reserve: 60 hours

The Zenith Chronomaster Sport stands out as a compelling alternative to the Rolex Daytona, offering a blend of precision, heritage, and modern design. Featuring Zenith's renowned El Primero 311automatic movement, the Chronomaster Sport boasts a high-frequency chronograph with a 1/10th of a second precision. Its sleek, sporty aesthetics, complete with a ceramic bezel and a legible dial, echo the elegance and functionality that Daytona enthusiasts admire. For those seeking a sophisticated chronograph with a prestigious legacy, the Zenith Chronomaster Sport presents an excellent choice.

Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional

• Brand: Omega

• Model: Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional

• Reference: 310.30.42.50.01.002

• Case: 42mm x 13.20mm

• Case Material: Stainless Steel

• Water Resistance: 50m

• Calibre: Omega 3861

• Frequency: 3 Hz

• Power Reserve: 50 hours

The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional serves as a distinguished alternative to the Rolex Daytona, celebrated for its historical significance and precision. Known as the first watch worn on the moon, it features the manual-winding Omega Caliber 3861 movement, ensuring exceptional accuracy and reliability. The Moonwatch's classic design, with its black dial, tachymeter bezel, and hesalite crystal, offers timeless appeal. For those seeking a chronograph with a rich heritage and a direct connection to space exploration, the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional is a superb option.

Tudor Black Bay Chrono

• Brand: Tudor

• Model: Black Bay Chrono

• Reference: M79360N-0001

• Case: 41mm x 14.40mm

• Case Material: Stainless Steel

• Water Resistance: 200m

• Calibre: MT5813

• Frequency: 4 Hz

• Power Reserve: 70 hours

The Tudor Black Bay Chrono is an exceptional alternative to the Rolex Daytona, combining heritage, precision, and robust design. Powered by the COSC-certified MT5813 movement, it offers chronograph functionality with a 70-hour power reserve. The Black Bay Chrono features a striking design with a black dial, contrasting sub-dials, and a tachymeter bezel, echoing classic racing chronographs. For those seeking a high-quality chronograph with a distinctive style and strong value proposition, the Tudor Black Bay Chrono stands out as an excellent choice.

Breitling B01 Chronograph 42

• Brand: Breitling

• Model: B01 Chronograph 42

• Reference: AB0145371L1A1

• Case: 42mm x 13.60mm

• Case Material: Stainless Steel

• Water Resistance: 100m

• Calibre: Breitling 01

• Frequency: 4 Hz

• Power Reserve: 70 hours

The Breitling B01 Chronograph 42 stands out as a remarkable alternative to the Rolex Daytona, offering exceptional craftsmanship and precision. Equipped with the in-house Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01, it boasts an impressive 70-hour power reserve and COSC-certified accuracy. The B01 Chronograph 42 features a stylish design with a variety of dial options, a robust stainless steel case, and a tachymeter bezel, embodying the essence of a classic chronograph. For those seeking a sophisticated and reliable timepiece, the Breitling B01 Chronograph 42 is a compelling choice.

IWC Portugieser Chronograph

• Brand: IWC

• Model: Portugieser Chronograph

• Reference: IW371617

• Case: 41mm x 13mm

• Case Material: Stainless Steel

• Water Resistance: 30m

• Calibre: 69355

• Frequency: 4 Hz

• Power Reserve: 46 hours

The IWC Portugieser Chronograph is a refined alternative to the Rolex Daytona, offering a blend of elegance and precision. Renowned for its clean, classic design, the Portugieser Chronograph features a sleek dial with simple yet sophisticated aesthetics. Powered by the IWC-manufactured 69355 caliber movement, it ensures reliable performance and accuracy. As a Rolex Daytona alternative, the IWC Portugieser Chronograph stands out with its unique combination of timeless style and horological excellence, making it a superb choice for those seeking an alternative to the iconic Daytona.

Piaget Polo Chronograph

• Brand: Piaget

• Model: Polo Chronograph

• Reference: G0A41006

• Case: 42mm x 11.2mm

• Case Material: Stainless Steel

• Water Resistance: 100m

• Calibre: 1160P

• Frequency: 4 Hz

• Power Reserve: 50 hours

The Piaget Polo Chronograph is a sophisticated Rolex Daytona alternative, blending luxury with high-performance chronograph functionality. Featuring Piaget’s in-house 1160P automatic movement, it ensures precision and reliability. The Polo Chronograph's distinctive design, with its cushion-shaped case and horizontal guilloché dial, offers a unique aesthetic appeal. The Piaget Polo Chronograph excels in both craftsmanship and style, making it an excellent Rolex Daytona alternative for those seeking a luxurious and distinctive timepiece.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Chronograph

• Brand: Jaeger-LeCoultre

• Model: Polaris Chronograph

• Reference: Q9028181

• Case: 42mm x 13.39mm

• Case Material: Stainless Steel

• Water Resistance: 100m

• Calibre: Calibre 761

• Frequency: 4 Hz

• Power Reserve: 65 hours

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Chronograph is a compelling Rolex Daytona alternative, offering a blend of adventure and sophistication. Powered by the in-house Caliber 761, it guarantees precision and durability. The Polaris Chronograph features a versatile design with a striking dial, dual chronograph counters, and a tachymeter scale, catering to both sporty and elegant tastes. As a Rolex Daytona alternative, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Chronograph stands out for its robust functionality and refined aesthetic, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile and high-quality chronograph.