tudor royal vs maurice lacroix aikon | Maurice Lacroix watch review

The integrated bracelet sports watch has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, fueled by the enduring appeal of icons like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and the Patek Philippe Nautilus. This renewed interest has spawned a plethora of alternatives, ranging from homages to original designs. Two prominent contenders in this arena, often compared and contrasted, are the Tudor Royal and the Maurice Lacroix Aikon.

The Tudor Royal, a more established player, offers a blend of classic design and robust construction synonymous with the Tudor brand. The Maurice Lacroix Aikon, on the other hand, has garnered attention for its aggressive pricing and distinctive aesthetic, prompting debates about its originality and its position within the crowded landscape of integrated bracelet sports watches. This article delves into a detailed comparison of the Tudor Royal and the Maurice Lacroix Aikon, focusing on design, build quality, movement options, wearability, and value proposition. We'll explore the nuances of each watch, helping you determine which model best suits your preferences and budget. We will also address the common question: is the Maurice Lacroix Aikon just a Royal Oak knockoff?

Design and Aesthetics: A Clash of Styles

The design is arguably the most contentious point of comparison between the Tudor Royal and the Maurice Lacroix Aikon. While both watches feature integrated bracelets and stainless steel cases, their aesthetic approaches diverge significantly.

The Tudor Royal leans towards a more traditional and understated design. Its key features include:

* Fluted Bezel: The Royal's most distinctive element is its fluted bezel, reminiscent of certain Rolex models. This detail adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, elevating the watch beyond a purely sporty aesthetic.

* Sunray Dial: The sunray dial, available in various colors, contributes to the Royal's refined appearance. The radial brushing catches the light beautifully, creating a dynamic and visually appealing effect.tudor royal vs maurice lacroix aikon

* Applied Indices and Hands: The applied indices and hands, often filled with luminous material, provide excellent legibility and a sense of depth to the dial.

* Integrated Bracelet: The integrated bracelet features a five-link design with alternating brushed and polished surfaces, enhancing its visual interest and perceived quality.

In contrast, the Maurice Lacroix Aikon embraces a bolder and more contemporary design language. Its defining characteristics include:

* Six-Arm Bezel: The Aikon's signature design element is its six-arm bezel, which extends outwards from the case and provides a unique and easily recognizable silhouette.

* Clous de Paris Dial (on some models): Some Aikon models feature a Clous de Paris (hobnail) dial, adding texture and visual complexity. Other models offer sunray or smooth dials.

* Applied Indices and Hands: Similar to the Tudor Royal, the Aikon features applied indices and hands, contributing to legibility and a sense of depth.

* Integrated Bracelet: The Aikon's integrated bracelet features a more angular and modern design, with larger links and a more pronounced taper.

The Royal Oak Question: The Aikon's design, particularly its bezel, has drawn comparisons to the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. While the six-arm bezel is undeniably reminiscent of the Royal Oak's iconic octagonal bezel, it's important to note that the Aikon's design is not a direct copy. The Aikon features its own distinct proportions, lines, and details. While the influence is clear, it's unfair to dismiss the Aikon as a mere "knockoff." It presents a more accessible entry point into the integrated bracelet sports watch aesthetic, albeit with a design that acknowledges its inspiration.

Build Quality and Materials: Examining the Details

Both the Tudor Royal and the Maurice Lacroix Aikon are constructed from stainless steel, offering durability and resistance to corrosion. However, subtle differences in finishing and construction contribute to their overall perceived quality.

Tudor Royal: Tudor is renowned for its robust and reliable construction. The Royal features a well-finished case with sharp lines and consistent brushing. The bracelet feels solid and substantial, with minimal play between the links. The clasp, while not as sophisticated as those found on higher-end watches, is secure and functional.

Maurice Lacroix Aikon: The Aikon also boasts impressive build quality, especially considering its price point. The case is well-finished, with a combination of brushed and polished surfaces. The bracelet feels solid and comfortable on the wrist. The clasp, while simpler than the Royal's, is well-executed and secure.

Movement Options: Quartz vs. Automatic

One of the most significant differences between the Tudor Royal and the Maurice Lacroix Aikon lies in their movement options.

Tudor Royal: The Tudor Royal is available with either a quartz or an automatic movement. The automatic movement is a modified ETA 2824-2 or Sellita SW200-1, known for its reliability and robustness. It offers a power reserve of approximately 38 hours and beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour.

Maurice Lacroix Aikon: The Maurice Lacroix Aikon is available with both quartz and automatic movements. The Aikon Quartz, often the subject of debate in terms of value and originality, provides an affordable entry point into the Aikon aesthetic. The automatic Aikon models typically feature a Sellita SW200-1 movement, similar to the Tudor Royal.