The Rolex Explorer Watch Alternative That's Under $500 And Nearly Identical

In the world of luxury watches, no brand carries as much prestige as Rolex. The name alone is a symbol of status and wealth, with some models worth more than $75,000. Indeed, the Rolex GMT Master II has exceptional resale value even in 2025 – we're talking millions. But for many people, functionality comes before price, and the appeal of a Rolex stops at the price tag. If it's just the look you're after, the Lorier Falcon is a fantastic alternative for a fraction of the cost. With an elegant yet simple face, the watch features a sleek steel strap that sits comfortably and attractively on the wrist.

That's what makes the Lorier Falcon so compelling. It offers a similar aesthetic to the Rolex Explorer, celebrated for its reliability and rugged design, but today, it sells for a steep price. With a similar minimalistic yet timeless design, the Lorier Falcon can make a good alternative that's just as stunning yet friendlier on the budget. Its faux-vintage look gives the timepiece a classic feel that fits right in with much more expensive brands, like Rolex.

The Rolex Explorer is considered one of the brand's more attainable timepieces but will still cost upwards of $7,500 — if you're able to secure a new model and possibly more on the resale market. Priced at just $499, the Falcon comes in a 36 millimeter case and sports a black dial whose only function is to display time, just like the Explorer – no additional bells and whistles like date display, chronograph, and moon phase indicator.

The Falcon's main difference is that it features a textured dial, whereas the Explorer sports a matte finish. Internally, the watch is powered by a Miyota 90S5 automatic movement, which offers reliable performance. Despite its similarities, the Falcon stands on its own for its timeless design and exceptional quality for its price point, and is in a similar vein to the Hamilton Khaki Field Murph, which itself is an alternative to a $40,000 classic watch, Patek Philippe's Calatrava. For those who appreciate the Explorer's spirit but not its price tag, the Lorier Falcon delivers a similar feel at a far more accessible price.