Can a Cheap Chinese Watch Replace A Rolex?
I bought a new watch. It is the CIVO Analog Quartz watch for men. It's a low cost watch that looks good and competes well against much higher priced watches.
 |
| CIVO Men's Analog Quartz Watch |
Will it replace a Rolex Explorer or Rolex Datejust? Well, it tells time just like both of them. It has a Japanese quartz movement that seems very reliable. It even has lume on the hour and minute hands. Of course, it doesn't have lume that's intense enough to glow for hours after you've gone to bed.
CIVO Watch Design
From a design perspective, this watch sits in a practical space somewhere between a dress watch and field watch. As a field watch, it has a readable white dial with a small date window just inside of the 3 o'clock position. As a dress watch, the bezel has a coin-edge fluted design that catches the sun with a datejust-like dazzle. I test the watch in a field on a 90-degree plus day and it survived just fine.
 |
| This Civo watch is working just fine in a field |
Perhaps a forest test for this watch would be in order?
CIVO Watch Dimensions
In terms of dimensions, the CIVO Analog watch has contemporary dimensions with a 39mm diameter case that is 10mm thick. The hook clasp bracelet fits wrists up to 8.66 inches. The watch dimensions are perfect for the office, formal events, or a walk in the woods.
CIVO Hook Clasp Watch Bracelet
Some reviewers don't like the hook clasp bracelet. It's kind of an old-fashioned setup. But, I found that it worked well once initial adjustments are made.
To Adjust the Civo Watch bracelet, you have to use a small screwdriver, insert it into the center of the hook landing area, and gently pry it open. Then you can slide the hook landing area to have a longer or shorter bracelet to fit your wrist.
 |
| The Hook Clasp Landing Area in the Open Position for Adjusting the Length |
Once you have adjusted the bracelet to the desired length, you need to press the landing area down to ensure it is secured to the bracelet.
 |
Hook Clasp Landing Area in the Closed Position Secure
to the Bracelet and Ready for the hook |
The hook portion of the other part of the bracelet clamps over the bar on the left (above) and the clasp then folds down over the landing area. In practice, I found that it worked well and, once adjusted, doesn't have to be changed.
CIVO Watch Construction
The CIVO Analog watch features all stainless steel construction: a stainless steel caseback, stainless steel bracelet, and stainless steel case. The crystal is simply listed as glass.
The watch has 10 atmospheres (30 meters/100 feet) of water resistance. That's a practical specification to protect against rain, sweat, and normal handwashing but not for swimming or diving.
CIVO Analog Watch Impressions
I was quite impressed by this simple watch. It provides the minimalist style and functionality that so many crave in more expensive field and minimalist watches at a price that can't be beat.
 |
| The CIVO Analog watch takes alley shortcuts with confidence |
In the urban environment, the CIVO Analog seemed urbane enough. I've worn it to the office, on errands, and out walking the dog and the watch has simply worked and worked well.
 |
| CIVO Analog Watch Packaging |
Overall, I've been very impressed by the watches I've purchased as a result of my Ten Dollar Tuesday watch quest. You can see the other watches that I've found here on my blog. I think I like this one the best because of its simplicity and stainless steel construction.
CIVO Watch Price
The Civo Silver Quartz watch for men generally sells for under $30. But, as of thie writing. this white dial variant is on sale for 67% off, that brings it in at a penny under $10. That's an amazing price. If you'd like grab one, check it out here using my Amazon Affiliate Link.
Can A CIVO Watch Replace A Rolex?
If you've been waiting to know whether this humble CIVO analog watch can replace a Rolex--like an Explorer or Datejust--you probably already know the answer. Of course, a CIVO can replace a Rolex--especially when you can't afford a Rolex!
