If I ask you to name a few watch brands that reflect style and personality, what names do you remember?
Omega, Rolex, Casio, Rado, and Tissot are brands that pop out for me to name a few. I like the quality, craftsmanship, and of course the pride of owning a brand.
Do I own any of them? No, no yet. The automatic watches from these brands are way too expensive and I always had to think twice. The automatic watch industry has evolved lately and Chinese automatic watches have flooded the market.
China, being the world’s factory, has played a major part in this change.
So are these Chinese automatic watches affordable and of high quality? Yes, of course! The Chinese automatic watches match the finishing and quality of well-known brands.
Not all Chinese watches are cheap but compared to how I had to think twice before buying a watch, I can now buy them.
Let’s check out a few uber-cool automatic timepieces from China and see for ourselves how they match your style and personality. For some watch reviews, we've added the actual, real images of the product.
| Chinese Automatic Watch | Where you can get it |
| San Martin SN023-G | Check it out on AliExpress |
| Steeldive SD1975 | Check it out on AliExpress |
| Seagull | Check it out on Aliexpress |
| Memorigin | Check it out on Amazon |
| Starking | Check it out on Aliexpress |
| Forsining | Check it out on Aliexpress |
| Fiyta | Check out Fiyta watches on Amazon |
| Pagani (Looks like a Rolex) | Check out on Aliexpress |
| Lige | Check out on Aliexpress |
| Aesop | Check out on Aliexpress |
| Nibosi | Check out on Dhgate |
My Experience with Chinese Automatic Watch Movements
One of the reasons why I don’t go for Manual Wind Chinese watches is because of the accuracy concern with manual-wind watches.
Chinese watch movements have had a bad reputation because of the various counterfeits in the market. In reality, I’ve had a few bad experiences as well, but I blame that on a lack of research. So how did I improve my research process on whether a Chinese Automatic Watch Movement is good or not?
Ask the manufacturer about the Alloy quality they choose. Cheaper alloys affects the Pinions& Stems if the diameter isn’t thicker.
The other aspect is the oiling done. Sometimes the oiling is too less or too much. Seagull’s Movement watches are on par with Swiss & Japanese watches. So if you are looking for a good Chinese Automatic Watch Movement brand, then I would suggest Seagull.
If you aren’t going for other non-branded ones, then you need to put the seller through the ringer in terms of the alloy quality and accuracy. If you are buying a Movement watch for more than $100, I would suggest a brand.
This is another popular brand, Starking. I opened the back side to check and see the movements & functions.
Best Chinese Automatic Watches 2024
San Martin SN023-G
The San Martin SN023-G is a contemporary masterpiece that seamlessly combines the essence of a classic field watch with modern aesthetics and Swiss precision.
Its clean and legible dial, adorned with bold Arabic numerals and luminous markers, ensures effortless readability even in dimly lit environments. The brushed stainless steel case and bracelet exude a sense of robustness and sophistication, making it a versatile companion for both casual outings and formal affairs.
Crafted from 316L stainless steel, the case boasts solid construction and impeccable finishing, while the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal provides unparalleled protection for the dial. Powered by the revered Swiss Sellita SW200 movement, this timepiece guarantees exceptional accuracy and reliability, with a smooth sweeping seconds hand that epitomizes horological excellence.
In terms of performance, the SN023-G delivers on all fronts. With an impressive +/- 10 seconds per day accuracy rating and a generous 41-hour power reserve, it ensures precision timekeeping without missing a beat. Additionally, its 200-meter water resistance rating makes it suitable for aquatic adventures, further enhancing its appeal to adventurous spirits.
While the SN023-G may not boast the same level of brand recognition as some of its counterparts, its exceptional craftsmanship, reliable performance, and competitive price point make it a standout choice for discerning watch enthusiasts.
Pros:
- Clean and versatile design suitable for various occasions
- Excellent build quality with sapphire crystal and Swiss movement
- Reliable performance with good accuracy and power reserve
- Competitive price point for a Swiss-made watch
Cons:
- May feel bulky on smaller wrists
- Bracelet might not be the most comfortable for extended wear
- Brand recognition may not be as strong as established watchmakers
Steeldive SD1975
For those captivated by the allure of vintage dive watches but seek the convenience of modern functionality, the Steeldive SD1975 emerges as a compelling choice. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Rolex Sea-Dweller, this timepiece seamlessly blends retro aesthetics with contemporary features to create a truly captivating horological experience.
The SD1975's vintage charm is evident in every detail, from its large indices and sword hands to its robust stainless steel case and rotating bezel. However, it's the inclusion of modern elements such as sapphire crystal, ceramic bezel insert, and drilled lugs that elevate this homage timepiece to new heights of desirability.
Crafted from solid stainless steel and adorned with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and ceramic bezel insert, the SD1975 exudes a sense of durability and refinement that belies its affordable price tag. Powered by the reliable Seiko NH35A movement, it offers dependable performance with a 41-hour power reserve and accuracy within +/- 15 seconds per day.
With an impressive water resistance rating of 300 meters, the SD1975 is more than capable of accompanying you on your underwater adventures, making it a versatile companion for both diving enthusiasts and everyday wearers alike.
While the homage design of the SD1975 may not resonate with everyone, its solid build quality, reliable performance, and attractive price point make it a worthy contender in the realm of vintage-inspired dive watches.
Pros:
- Vintage-inspired design with modern features
- Solid build quality with sapphire crystal and ceramic bezel
- Reliable and affordable Seiko NH35A movement
- Impressive water resistance for the price point
Cons:
- Homage design may not appeal to all tastes
- Bezel action might not match high-end divers
- Brand recognition may not be as strong as established brands
SEA-GULL
The manufacturers behind the SEA-GULL brand of watches are the Tianjin watch factory. They are acclaimed for being the largest watch movement producers in the world.
The SEA-GULL Ocean Star is one of the best selling automatic watches on AliExpress. The watch is 44 mm in diameter and is built from 100% stainless steel. The quality is top-notch and it reminds me of one the models from Omega which I have always loved. The stainless steel can be quite abrasive for a few people and is not recommended for people with allergies.
Specifications:
- Automatic. No battery required
- 13 MM thickness
- Sapphire dial window
- Folding clasp with safety buckle
- 28,800 frequency
What’s in it for you?
The SEA-GULL Ocean Star Self-wind Automatic Mechanical 20Bar Men's Diving Swimming Sport Watch Blue Dial 816.523 comes with a SEA-GULL manufacturer warranty so you can buy this beauty with confidence. The best feature of this automatic watch is the 200m water resistance for the adventure junkie in you. I would definitely recommend this as it checks all the boxes as per my research. Click on the link below to buy this on AliExpress.
MEMORIGIN
The Memorigin watches resonate a traditionally elegant style and the watches are known for the blend of oriental and western cultures. This automatic watch uses the in-house movement and its quality and craftsmanship are truly world-class. Designed by designers in Hong Kong and in addition, they also provide a carving service on the movement so you have a one-of-a-king watch.
The Memorigin Transformers Series Limited Edition Optimus Prime Tourbillon featured here has 155 pieces of subassembly and 18 jewels. It operates at a 28,000/hour oscillation and comes with a 40-hour power reserve. The Optimus Prime dial is embedded with 9 pieces of natural sapphires and has alligator straps for bands that showcase opulence.
Specifications:
- 43mm case diameter
- Stainless steel
- 165ft water resistant
- Antireflective sapphire dial window
What’s in it for you?
The Optimus Prime by Memorigin is a statement in itself and is one of the most expensive Chinese watches you can buy. Priced at $9000 on Amazon, this automatic watch is an ideal gift for someone you truly treasure as it comes in a beautiful box and a certificate of authenticity. The 155 pieces of subassembly module and 18 jewels make this watch even more desirable for the collector in you.
STARKING
When it comes to women’s automatic watches, STARKING is a brand you can rely on for its affordability and style. The company offers a variety of styles and colors in women’s watches and it has unbelievable specifications.
The STARKING Hodinky Damske automatic ladies watch is extremely elegant and of great build quality. This particular model is popular and trendy and comes in a variety of color options.
Specifications:
- 50M water-resistant
- Automatic-self-wind movement
- Shock resistant
- Hollow carved design
- Anti-reflective Hardlex glass
What’s in it for you?
A truly classic design, The STARKING Hodinky Damske has a variety of color options to suit your style. The hollow carved design and a classic sword pointer is a sure shot conversation starter. The strap has clean lines and is made of stainless steel and is very comfortable to wear. Retailing at $49.50 on AliExpress, this watch is a steal. When are you getting one?
FORSINING
FORSINING is an automatic watch range from the Guangzhou Ruixue watch company, China.
The FORSINING Men's Automatic Watch, Relojes is known for its affordability, quality, and functionality. The featured model is encased in a specially designed metal case and has precise movement thanks to its patented technology. It doubles up as a fashion accessory as it is designed to look like a bracelet.
Specifications:
- Automatic self-winding mechanism
- Alloy Casing
- 150 gms
- 42.8mm diameter
- Bracelet clasp
What’s in it for you?
The company is well known for making watches that are elegant looking yet are affordable when compared to the Chinese automatic watches. This is a perfect bet for a budget shopper who expects quality for the money spent. The FORSINING watch range starts from $22.50 on AliExpress. Click on the link to check out more automatic watches now.
FIYTA
Established in 1986, FIYTA has reinvented its outlook and style over the years. They have continuously focused on the spirit of innovation and have created elegant timepieces. Their designs are international and the watches are characterized by design aesthetics.
FIYTA automatic watches have built on their brand based on the spirit of aeronautics.
The FIYTA 3D-TIME Automatic has a classic black dial and silver-tone hands. With a pull/push crown clasp and 45mm diameter, the watch comes with a transparent case back.
Specifications:
- Stainless steel; PVD black
- Swiss Automatic movement
- 30M Water-resistant
- Crown tang clasp
- Hour, Minute, Second feature
What’s in it for you?
The black dial with its silver-tone hands brings out the 3D element and is a one-of-a-kind wrist accessory. The fixed bezel and embedded crystals stand out and you also get a see-through back case. The FIYTA 3D-TIME Automatic is a mid-range automatic watch but it sure does stand out when it comes to its unique style. It’s available on Amazon, click on the link for more info.
T-WINNER
The T-WINNER is a product of Guangdong, China, and the brand exemplifies luxury, charm, and fashion.
The automatic range from the stable of T-WINNER is designed to suit people in Business and fashion with its color pattern and finish. The T-WINNER Skeleton Gold automatic self-winding watch and comes with a 40.3 mm diameter. The watch is priced at $27.99 and is available on AliExpress and would be a great addition to your collection.
Specifications:
- Luminous hands
- Stainless steel
- Hardlex dial window
- Water-resistant
- Automatic self-winding mechanism
What’s in it for you?
The T-WINNER Skeleton Gold is a perfect gift for anniversaries, weddings, and birthdays with the gold and other striking colors it is available in.
Lige Leather Chronograph Automatic Quartz Watch
Lige is a high-quality leather automatic watch that has been built for top-notch performance while being stylish enough to wear with everyday casuals or semi-formals. It comes equipped with a fully functioning chronograph that can be enabled by simply pressing the button on the side of the dial.
This particular watch is available in over 12 different color combinations and carries a rating of 3ATM which means that it’s capable of surviving in a cold shower or on a rainy day but will not work underwater and if it’s immersed in hot water.
Specifications
- 3ATM/30M Water Resistant
- Stainless steel Casing
- Pure Leather Strap
- Functional Chronograph with Date display Functions
What’s in it for you?
The Lige leather chronograph automatic watch is a versatile and affordable unit that comes equipped with luminous hour and minute hands. It’s something you should consider wearing if you’re heading for a casual meeting or a night out around town with friends.
AESOP
The AESOP brand has a 30-year heritage of manufacturing watches and has carved a niche for itself in China. The watches from AESOP are a mix of durability and elegance. Their high precision movement is a breakthrough in automatic watch technology.
The AESOP Chinese Dragon Watch Relogio Masculino has some incredible features, lets take a look at them, shall we?
Specifications:
- 30M water-resistant
- Push-button hidden clasp
- Shock resistant
- High precision movement
- Automatic self-winding mechanism
- 3-year warranty*
What’s in it for you?
AESOP Chinese Dragon Watch Relogio Masculino is a shock-resistant watch that helps extend the overall life of the watch. The stereoscopic gold dragon design is an identity in itself and you are sure to flaunt it. Click on the AliExpress link to buy this beast of an automatic watch today!
NIBOSI
If you are looking for designs that are striking but simple, look no further. The Automatic watches from NIBOSI are worth every penny as their designs are modern and new-age.
Specifications:
- 43mm diameter
- Stainless steel
- Water-resistant
- Limited Edition
What’s in it for you?
The Wheel Design Automatic watch by NIBOSI is a limited edition men’s watch and is on the 2020 list top brands for men. The luxury sport wheel design is an original NIBOSI design and comes in 7 color options you can choose from. If you’re into automobiles and speed, this design is custom made for you. The watch is up for grabs on DHgate for $71.99. What are you waiting for...Get, set, buy!
Pagani Design
If you are looking for a premium watch that has the look and feel of an Omega or a Rolex, then check out the Pagani watch collection. It's a popular watch that is quite expensive as Aliexpress watches go, but it has the quality and the finish of a premium watch.
Pagani is a super popular brand and they make one of the best automatic watches. It comes in numerous colours such as Gold, Ivory, Silver and more. The specifications of this watch are
- 100 metre water resistance
- It has a 40mm diameter and a bracelet length of 210mm
- It's made of stainless steel
- The inner watch face comes in unique designs with a gradient finish as well.
This is one of the best and premium automatic watches from China.
Best Chinese Automatic Watches FAQs
What is the best Chinese watch brand?
There are a few Chinese watch brands that are good. Some of the best rated ones are Seagull, Nibosi and Starking. They rank amongst the top. If you are looking for non-automatic watches, then the best Chinese Watch brands include Amazfit and Huawei.
Are Chinese watch movements any good?
Chinese watch movements have not been very good in the past models. Especially the ones which are replicas of watches like the Rolex. But the later watch movements from Brands like Memorigin are really good and are quite exceptional. They are much better than what most people bargain for.
What is Chinese movement watch?
A Chinese Movement watch is what made Chinese watches popular in the 70's. This movement was standardized by watch makers all over China. They called it Tongji. This ensured that all watch makers used the standard movement, which has been automated now. These watches are generally known for their visible movement patterns which made them quite popular.
Why are Chinese watches so cheap?
Chinese watches are cheap primarily because of economies of scale and very cheap labour that is highly skilled. China can make watches like Rolex and Omega at 1/5th the cost without losing quality purely because of the skill sets and cheap cost of labour and raw materials.
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