More Affordable Alternative to the AP Royal Oak - Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic and Chrono Review

Normally, I always default to recommending to go after the watch you really want instead of going for a more affordable alternative, however, with ultra high-end sports watches with starting prices of $20-30 k, it might not be realistic to promote that narrative given most situations. However, today we have two watches from Maurice Lacroix that might be two watches to consider for those looking for this style.
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[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Hey guys, quick appreciation, things have gotten quite busy for me with the channel and I just want to continue to express how thankful I am to have you all watching. It is a true honor to make videos and for you all to enjoy them. Btw - Stowa review and giveaway coming soon. Make sure you are following me on Instagram!

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

And yes, I hearted my own comment.

[@tri7661]

Keep doing what you’re doin’ Teddy!

[@jarodstevens2710]

How do we know when you've already given away the watches? I haven't seen an announcement in a while on Instagram or in the comments but keep in mind I'm horrible at technology🤷‍♂️ thanks in advance

[@Claus-L.Mueller]

Hi Teddy, I’m owning the automatic with the blue dial. And I’m blown away about the quality and the look of this watch. I got it for about €1,200 new. And for this price it is unbeatable. Many people say it’s a knockoff of the RO. But when you look closer you will see way more differences than similarities. For me the Aikon automatic is an outstanding modern sports watch for a very fair price! Best regards, Claus

[@tomkhong9828]

Claus-L. Müller I totally agreed. After trying on a 15400st, I just couldn’t find its worth of 20grands. I have seen rave reviews of this Aikon , I’m excited

[@andriisydorenko3453]

For 1200 U bought an Automatic or Quartz ?

[@antonhallergren588]

@@andriisydorenko3453 autos go for 1200 on chrono 24

[@flyingphoenix113]

Teddy, could you do a series of videos of servicing costs? A lot of people are tempted by vintage and depreciated in-house watchmakers but aren't aware of the servicing costs. Brands like Zenith, Girard Perregaux, etc. are often recommended because of their lower price of entry, but they often have higher servicing costs due to their use of in-house movements. You could compare modern vs vintage. In house vs. ETA/Valjoux/Sellita. And automatic, complicated (chronographs, etc.) vs. simple (auomatic or automatic with date only).

[@AnindaCBR1k]

how crazy is it that i was just taking a look at the Aikon online. come to youtube and you bless me with this video

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

I have overtook your thoughts Chrome..

[@AnindaCBR1k]

@@TeddyBaldassarre 😹

[@jafp1617]

Thanks to this video, I am now eyeing and saving on the 39mm version of this.

[@loganpineda1143]

Hey Teddy I’m telling all my friends about you in fact I’m telling my whole school 563 students hope you hit 100,000 subs soon

[@seekingthetruth3410]

I got my Aikon for $1600 new, from a second hand dealer, the receipt was still in the box, also purchased on 2 Jan 2020

[@SalemaPsy]

It's a Royal Oak inspired watch but seems like it has his own thing/vibe probably due to quality. It isn't the average homage watch. Thank you for the "awareness" review!

[@TheAzurlos]

Ayy so early again...this is becoming a habbit. It always pays off as well. Very good videos with interesting concepts in the last few weeks. Way to go Teddy you are doing a great job

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

The best habit to have haha ;) Thanks for watching!

[@abbath1586]

I was blown away in one of your earlier videos that touched upon this brand and model, so I’m very happy you finally got around to a review. I think this will fit nicely within my collection as a dress piece that still has sport presence. I like watches that I can wear and so anything with. I’ve been hunting for a Canadian retailer and plan on getting the 39mm when it releases as it is shown in their site now.

[@Blair338RUM]

Nice unbiased review Teddy. You gave the brand a fair shake 👍

[@kissmylilpiggy]

Superb review as always, I have a blue dial on order and due to be delivered shortly, my first Swiss and also my first piece above the £/$500 threshold. I have to admit to being very taken with the 200m w/r rating. I have to imagine that on vacation in the sea / pool when the sun hits the case and bracelet it will look astonishing.

[@jad19851]

I'm pretty sure you hacked my computer. Your ability to put out a relevant video immediately before I purchase something is impeccable. Did you hijack my Alexa?

[@jad19851]

When is that jlc video coming out? That's also on the short list

[@dmora2386]

I saw the watch on reddit and pretty much every YT vid out there, it gets an A, A+ rating, especially for the price, I LOVE the look, def going to the store this weekend to check it out in person.

[@thewealthwatchman]

Very tastefully done models. Only one criticism: for the price point of $1000+, Id like to see at least an ETA, rather than mere selita. But all things considered, things like finishing, dial, and movement make it a reasonably good value. Good poor man’s Royal Oak, to be sure.

[@JTMarlin8]

What do you have against Sellita? ETA will not be available to many watch brands after this year. Sellita has historically been a major supplier of ETA.

[@reimaxiusco4373]

The model looked so luxurious

[@1018Frankie]

Very good alternative, I don’t see too much love for them and as you I think they should receive more! Nice video, keep the good work my friend!

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Thanks, Francisco! Appreciate you as always!

[@tomkhong9828]

Excellent recommendation, thanks Teddy. I like a RO but just couldn’t pull the trigger for a SS sport watch at that price point. Now I have a target.

[@lucm70]

I just love these "Look alike" videos, thanks mate !

[@tonytrinidad5294]

Great review Teddy. I have the Aikon and love it. The bracelet is amazing as is the fit.

[@bramcopermans7494]

tony trinidad thinking about picking one up myself! Did u buy it 2nd hand or?

[@tonytrinidad5294]

@@bramcopermans7494 I did buy pre-owned on Ebay. You'll see a couple on WUS.

[@torbensvensson2093]

Hi Teddy, Long time I wrote to you.....but these two gives a solid impressession with that touch of high end luxury watches!! They tease me, and perhaps lots of others, definitly for that price which comes with watch!! I would go for the Icon Automatic!!👏🏻👏🏻 Thanks for a great review Teddy!😍I’m happy you find these interresting watches for us! I see your chanel have grown, well deserved Buddy!!👏🏻🔥🔥

[@brucecline8154]

my friend, I appreciate the review. I can't even afford the automatic so I bought the quartz Aikon and love it. Of course it isn't exactly like the automatic but its a very handsome and ACCURATE watch none-the-less. I would rather it not had the seconds hand proving it's quartz BUT on a a pleasant note, the seconds hand does hit the indexes perfectly. Keep up the fine work.

[@bramcopermans7494]

Bruce Cline thinking about picking one up as well mate!

[@greywolf369]

Beautiful dials, and as a fellow 6.25 inch wrist'er it's tough finding a chronograph that isn't massive 😭😭

[@a97b18b]

Jugoslav Vukicevic check out Maen new sky master chrono. Thinks it’s 38 or 39mm under 13mm thick, 46 L2L

[@greywolf369]

@@a97b18b very nicely done chronograph. Wish it had a date complication though.

[@antonhallergren588]

@@greywolf369 speedmaster 38 with the co axial

[@wesleyshinto]

Hey Teddy, great video, you can see your production value increase from month to month year to year. Just to let you know it's actually Sellita not Sallita. Keep up the good work KZbin needs quality watch reviewers!

[@nickgee7291]

This watch looks really distinctive! I like it!

[@Bob_In_Thailand]

I own the Aikoin non-chrono with the blue dial and love the quality and the look of the watch. I usually am not a fan of any watch greater than 40mm but the thickness of the watch is only 10.7mm which is awesome and the watch just feels great on the wrist even at 42mm. The textured blue dial is well done and in the sun it reflects the light and takes up different shades of blue even black at times. Now I would not wear this type of watch working around the house as like any watch of its kind that is highly polished and brushed stainless steel scratches will occur and when they do they are very noticeable, so if you purchase this watch be careful because it is definitely not a beater watch .

[@mehtabbhogal397]

I owned an AP (sold it because I felt it was bad horological bang for buck) and was blown away by the quality of the bracelet for the money with these models.

[@j.j.h.atemycereal]

Great video. This style isn’t my thing, but I thought it was really interesting.

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Thanks for watching anyways!

[@jamesarthur6962]

A great review Teddy, going to be checking these models out to add to the collection. I have always been accused by my friends as wearing my collection of poor man AP's, the Hublot's in my collection as I just prefer them to the AP's I have. And over the past few years my wife & daughters have taken ownership over my AP's. I have become a very big fan & collector of Girard-Perregaux over the years with many in my collection, so I personally choose the GP LAUREATO OVER THE AP ON MY WRIST & ENJOY THE SAVINGS ALSO.

[@itslucasduh]

How do you feel about Mido watches?

[@svicad4477]

Pls do a review with the new 39mm automatic with a blue dial. This will suit you for sure!

[@Aoelx]

That would be awesome! Not many reviews on that piece out there.

[@larryfishkind5387]

I am in between this Aikon and the Tudor royal .. any suggestions? Please

[@tundeogida9740]

Are the bracelet/strap interchangeable pls.

[@warrenjay51]

Keep up the good wrk, luv the channel it's very helpful!!👊👊

[@Troyboy23]

Still waiting on your Royal Oak review.

[@romanopeterj]

Great video, the number of AD's that feature the brand seem pretty limited. I live in New York City, and I don't think there is an AD in the city, as I have been interested in trying on the Aikon Automatic. When is the 39 MM version coming out, although with 7.25 inch wrists, the 42MM is not too big. I love the look and the bracelet looks killer which to me would justify the price they are asking, thanks again for reviewing.

[@jamaldeslandes8640]

Wow such beautiful watches.. I haven’t heard of this brand until this video.

[@bayareamenace6011]

I had to pick one up...it's like AP and Hublot had a one night stand making an unplanned baby which they left on the street only to be picked up by a bum who traded the kid into a foster home making it relatively affordable.

[@jonathanturner1581]

I'm starting to like these 🙂

[@danielsafo213]

Great video Teddy.Keep it up👍🏼 I’ll love to see more videos on Watches for ladies

[@thewatchloungechris]

I have the Aikon great watch for the price .

[@gh778]

What about the last generation of IWC ingenieurs? Can be had preowned for 3k. Generic movement but best case and bracelet-quality available at this price-point

[@markbertone9802]

"Ohhh that's hot, that's hot" - Will Smith looking at these watches

[@shivrambn5362]

It’s a perfect watch I’m so obsessed and wearing it at home too 😂

[@aidangarrett7295]

Haven't been early to an upload for a bit, sorry for slacking, Teddy!

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

No worries Aidan. Thanks for tuning in as always.

[@din0chickennuggets]

Hey Teddy - I have the same size wrists and I'm having trouble finding watch pillows that will fit my watches when they're on metal bracelets. Any recommendations? I bought a watch box and I can't fit any of them in there because the pillows are too big.

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

I tend to not buckle them around the pillows and leave them unbuckled and stored away in the watchbox in the safe. I am actually not aware of any smaller ones.

[@din0chickennuggets]

Teddy Baldassarre thank you good sir

[@manishamanohar9852]

Hi Teddy! I know this might not be a requested video but can you suggest good Swiss made automatic women's watches? I searched forever and the only one I really liked is the elegant series by longines. Just wanted to hear your input!!

[@williamhill7312]

Great Video

[@ianhardin1148]

How would you compare build quality/finish/etc with the Aikon Quartz vs. the Aikon Automatic?

[@walterharriman3420]

I have been looking at buying a new watch, I want something that can be both dressed up and down. I would like it to have more complications than simply date. I have a wrist a little over 16cm or 6 inches. I am open to new and vintage watches. I would also prefer a mechanical movement. I have a budget of up to £200 or $250. Any suggestions please?

[@maisonestates]

I also have both. They are epic

[@Slash-is3yu]

THANK YOU SOO MUCH

[@rodrigogutierrezreyes4702]

I think it is a really well made watch for the price point. I personally don't like the look of it, I would go for a Jean Richard Terrascope as an alternative to the Royal Oak. The Terrascope has its own characteristics and I feel it's a better option. None the less the Aikon is a nice watch! Liked the video Teddy. Keep it up!

[@b_altmann]

That one is 44mm, and closer to a Panerai from its looks.

[@samuelkoo3014]

Hi Teddy When you have some time, can you swap the 3 hand bracelet with the chronograph version?

[@Sir_Arlin]

"Affordable"

[@FatSamEIE]

GP Laureato for me

[@nicholaspersad2649]

That watch looking on point

[@whatsupdav]

Is ther any way you can go to some Costco's and talk about there prices and selection

[@antonhallergren588]

It's not that I don't have 20k to spend on an ap but it's about the fact that I'd have to spend 3-7k dollars every few years for a sports watch that is fragile as heck with only 50m wr. My big purchases will remain with other brands for now and I just got the aikon 39 and I'll get the chrono soon as I'm still in my honeymoon with the 39mm.

[@tri7661]

I was wondering Teddy, if you could add if a watch has hacking or not in your reviews?

[@koolpep]

Well, the only company I know that does have non-hacking movements is SEIKO/Orient in their lower priced models. So maybe it’s enough to mention when it’s NOT hacking as this should be standard...

[@useruser-bv1ej]

Check out the Edox Delfin! Similar design

[@timothylee6036]

video on bauhaus style watches?

[@dakotarayprice]

Can you do a video about patek Philippe affordable alternatives

[@martinr.krause780]

If you like the Aikon, get an Aikon. If you are into the Royal Oak, don‘t get an Aikon, it will not do it for your, because you are attracted by the money and not by the watch. From a watch point of the view the Aikon is just great.

[@enricotartaglia3810]

I really love this watch and I don't like the royal oak.. Is this possible? 🤔.. Yes it is.. The reason is that Tha ikon is not a copy or a clone or an alternative of the royal oak.. The ikon is just a wonderful watch whit its own style

[@jigsaw666jigsaw]

yes, me too

[@Avocadotoastin]

Looks beautiful

[@marcfavero1255]

One more hommage royal oak watch is the autodromo group b ;)

[@frdrk95]

Hey teddy! Any chance you could do a video on good/ affordable watches for women? I want to gift my gf a watch but dont know that market at all. Perhaps some tips/opinions from your gf as well?

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

I have done one video on the subject. I can revisit it again soon.

[@frdrk95]

@@TeddyBaldassarre thanks for the reply! Will check out the video :)

[@goldenchess1647]

Unless she has showed in interest in watches what are the chances she would want one? How did it go? You should've bought her some makeup or somthing man.

[@ninjabyspin]

Dietrich time companion...i purchased and it's great 👍

[@kevorknourian5442]

Awesome show awesome watch

[@d.stiefel869]

I have the black dial Aikon....wore it 3 times and I've owned it less than a year. Want to get rid of it BADLY!!!

[@couragefox]

How come?

[@d.stiefel869]

There is nothing wrong with the watch, it just doesn’t fit in to the collection. A little on the lower end of the spectrum compared to the rest of the stuff. Would rather move it to make room for additional higher end pieces.

[@psmith2632]

@@d.stiefel869 like what a Richard mille

[@d.stiefel869]

@@psmith2632 not that high end. Probably more Rolex.

[@federiconapoli]

Good review, Why didn’t You mention the new Aikon 39mm.?

[@advantagemarine7305]

He did, several times.

[@Mister_Phafanapolis]

U callin' me a poor?

[@africanpastor4458]

This guy knows how to do a review

[@prometeonardini9318]

The Aikon is not an alternative to the Royal Oak

[@lorithorpe3502]

WOW , they're beautiful , I prefer the plain one , to the chronograph , it just looks too cluttered for me .

[@bobbydazzler1780]

The black dial or blue look better. The auto looks like good bang for the buck and is finished nicely. The chrono does nothing for me and looks like a hulking brute. It’s dial colour combo looks a little cheap especially on that strap. Auto wins - a smart knockabout piece for everyday hammering.

[@retiredmogul]

I have very expensive taste and I have the money to back it up anytime - I only have extreme expectations of taking my watches diving and adventuring. A 50m water Pressure resistant watch will not be able to keep up. At 200m of water Pressure resistance, my Aikons go Everywhere with me without concern. I came across the Aikon by chance just before pulling the trigger on a 15500 Royal Oak, and now have it in more than one colour because I don't want to wear anything else - even my Swiss luxury dive watches. I have lost interest in the AP. Maurice Lacroix has birthed something sublime and must make the Aikon a Permanent fixture, only resorting to future enhancements of the line - I'd be a customer for life. Listen to these words, and Win, Stephane Waser.

[@SenerS10]

Didun Design is alright for under 100 bucks.

[@LordArioh]

if I want some watch I can't afford, I wouldn't replace it with some similar looking watch. It's just not the one I want.

[@gelmibson883]

Woo!

[@Brown_cheese]

A bit pricey for a selita based movement, but they do look good for sure. Zenith Defy classic is a good option in my opinion 👌

[@heavyd9154]

just pick up a used North Flag

[@mariocobos2001]

Noooooo ... now scalpers are going to bust the Aikon price to triple!

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

I don't think I have that much influence haha

[@mariocobos2001]

Teddy Baldassarre yes you do lol. Bought it for $1400 in Amazon today. Btw , check out the Epos line, some very nice!

[@milud900]

People don’t buy because how it looks like they buy because it is an AP

[@chipwong4530]

No substitution for the real thing.

[@MattyVice]

Maurice LaCroix Aikon looks better than AP

[@BossHugo84]

I rather have a Seiko SNKK47

[@superloup9455]

Dummies they never released it in 39 mm. It's the white that you have to do

[@Shelllshock]

Айкон - это бомба. Спасибо за обзор. Здесь были русские.

[@napoleonbonnie6192]

каждому русскому - по черному пакету, и билету на концерт кобзона

[@joellin]

Hey man why don’t you do a review of some Chinese watch to see if they are bad as everybody says

[@hypeandstyle-watches]

Not everything is alternatives to a super expensive watch. That title is clickbaity and you are better than that Teddy !

[@imranchowdhury4972]

Watches are OK but we all are missing your GF man!!!

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

It’s been a week 😂

[@Crocodileofdoom]

@@TeddyBaldassarre it feels like a month!!! Really good video by the way.

[@DRFunny-nh4mg]

well it is 100 % homage watches, but there is nothing wrong with that.

[@n00dyl69]

bring back your old background music

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

I can't listen to it anymore haha

[@n00dyl69]

@@TeddyBaldassarre that old music feels so teddy..and its so relaxing

[@flippinzippo9670]

Ooh video idea... More money than taste! Theres a lot of hot garbage out there!

[@derekshearer9049]

Too big, too bad. I like the designs more than the kind of ugly AP offerings.

[@DougE.phresh]

I llllooovvveee the royal oak, so naturally i have come across these before, i love these as well, except for one thing, the bezel, in pictures it looks some terribly tacky looking pep boys wheels bolted on to a fine AMG, i would have to see it in person to be sure, but in pictures, it does not appeal to me, solely do to the bezel

[@jjflash2611]

AP Royal Oak is one of the most expensive, overrated and ugliest watches ever made. Nothing but an Elitist DB status symbol. If you pay more than $5k for one, you not only have bad taste, you should get your head examined.

[@inkitatus1]

Just don't get the love for Genta designs, ugly.