First things first: “cheapest” is relative when we’re talking Rolex. Even a used Submariner in, uh, “well-loved” condition is gonna set you back a pretty penny. The internet says entry-level is around $10,200. Okay, maybe that’s not _that_ bad, but for a stainless steel watch? Sheesh! We’re talking Chrono24 numbers here, so buyer beware, do your research! I always feel like Chrono24 is a bit of a gamble, but hey, you gotta start somewhere, right?
Now, look, let’s be real. If you’re hunting for the absolute *cheapest*, you’re probably not getting an *actual* Rolex Submariner. You’re gonna be swimming in the murky waters of fakes, Frankenwatches (basically, a Rolex cobbled together from different parts, which might be legit, might not), or just plain ol’ “inspired by” pieces. And honestly, I wouldn’t go there. Unless you *really* know your stuff, you’re just asking to get scammed. Trust me on this one. Seen it happen too many times.
So, what are our options? Well, you could hunt for a really, *really* beat-up vintage Submariner. Like, one that’s been through a war, lost a bezel, and maybe even tells the wrong time occasionally. That *might* be relatively cheaper, but then you’re looking at potentially expensive repairs and a watch that, frankly, might not be very wearable. You’d probably be better off with a nice, reliable, and, frankly, cheaper alternative.
That’s where the “Submariner substitutes” come in. I saw something earlier about the Tissot Seastar 1000 Powermatic. Not a bad choice. It’s got that dive watch vibe, it’s reliable, and it won’t break the bank. There are tons of other options too. Just google “Submariner Alternatives”, you’ll be swamped.