Carnival watches have emerged strongly in the international watchmaking scene, demonstrating that it’s not necessary to come from a traditional European lineage to offer quality and style.
Often, when thinking of watches, our minds automatically turn towards nations with a long tradition in this art, such as Switzerland or Japan.
However, Chinese watches have begun to challenge these preconceived perceptions, and Carnival is a clear example of this.
Incorporating precision, innovative design, and a distinctive touch, this brand has quickly positioned itself among the preferences of many watch enthusiasts.
In this post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about Carnival watches, from their origin to how they are manufactured, and we’ll show you the best models from the brand.
⌦ Carnival Watches and Their Origin
Founded in 1986, the Carnival brand has been carving its path in the watchmaking universe with a clear proposition: to offer quality watches at an affordable price.
Originating from China, Carnival has become a stronghold within the watchmaking industry of the Asian giant, proving that Swiss tradition can be reinterpreted with an oriental touch.
The foundation of Carnival was not a mere business whim. It arose with the vision to reinvent and adapt the classic patterns of Swiss watch design, giving them a contemporary touch in line with current trends.
Although its inspiration was clearly rooted in traditional models at the outset, the brand soon found its own voice and style.
Its headquarters, located in the Baiyun district of Guangdong city, stands out in a region that has become the epicenter of Chinese watchmaking.
In this enclave, surrounded by other renowned brands like Pagani Design, Curren, and Tandorio, Carnival has continued its evolution, staying at the forefront of design and technology.
While some of its models might show a clear inspiration from established brands, Carnival has managed to differentiate itself and create a unique identity, merging the precision of traditional watchmaking with contemporary innovations.
This constant evolution is what has led the brand to be recognized and valued not only in its country of origin but globally as well.
⌦ Is This Brand of High Quality?
Carnival watches are known for their excellent quality-to-price ratio. But what materials and components justify their growing popularity? Let’s break down each of them below:
- Case: Most Carnival models feature cases made of stainless steel, giving them notable robustness and durability. Additionally, this material is hypoallergenic, ideal for those with sensitive skin.
- Crystal: Depending on the model and price range, Carnival uses either mineral crystal or sapphire crystal. The former is resistant and offers good visibility, while the latter is nearly as hard as diamond, making it practically scratch-resistant.
- Dial: Carnival dials stand out for their legibility and design. Some models also include tritium, a radioluminescent material that keeps the hour markers illuminated for years without the need for recharging.
- Strap: Options vary between leather and stainless steel. While leather straps offer a classic aesthetic, stainless steel straps are hypoallergenic and generally more durable. It’s worth mentioning that in budget models, the leather is often synthetic.
- Movement: Carnival has chosen to integrate quality movements in its watches. In many models, we find Japanese Miyota movements, known for their precision and durability. However, in some more affordable models, you might find cheaper Chinese mechanisms that are not as reliable.
With the combination of these components, Carnival has managed to create watches that are not only aesthetically appealing but also reliable and durable, justifying their exponential growth in the watchmaking world.
⌦ Review of the Best Carnival Watches
Within its extensive range, there are a few collections that truly stand out in our opinion. Below are the best Carnival watches, considering their features:
➜ Carnival 8017G
With its refined combination of stainless steel and leather bracelet, the 8017G stands out for its small seconds and calendar dial. Its hardened mineral crystal and Chinese automatic mechanical movement make it an elegant companion for daily wear.
| Crystal | Hardened Mineral |
| Movement | Chinese Automatic |
| Caliber | Chinese |
| Case Diameter | 38mm |
| Case Thickness | 11 mm |
| Materials | Stainless Steel Case with Leather Bracelet |
| Water Resistance | 3 bar (30 meters) |
| Other Features | Small Seconds Dial with Calendar |
➜ Carnival 8762G
A masterpiece in functionality and design, the 8762G comes with an impressive dial featuring dual time, power reserve indicator, and a complete calendar. Sapphire crystal protects its automatic mechanical movement, while its aesthetics are highlighted by its leather bracelet.
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Movement | Chinese Automatic |
| Caliber | Chinese |
| Case Diameter | 41 mm |
| Case Thickness | 12 mm |
| Materials | Stainless Steel Case with Leather Bracelet |
| Water Resistance | 3 bar (30 meters) |
| Other Features | Dual Time, Power Reserve Indicator, and Complete Calendar |
➜ Carnival 8638G
For those who appreciate the precision of Japanese quartz and the durability of stainless steel. The 8638G combines these features with a dual calendar, displaying both the day of the week and the month, in a modern and versatile design.
| Crystal | Hardened Mineral |
| Movement | Quartz |
| Caliber | Japanese |
| Case Diameter | 41 mm |
| Case Thickness | 11 mm |
| Materials | Stainless Steel Case and Bracelet |
| Water Resistance | 3 bar (30 meters) |
| Other Features | Calendar with Day of the Week and Month |
➜ Carnival 8781G Sun & Moon
Like a starry sky on your wrist, the 8781G captures the beauty of the sun and moon cycles with its moon phase indicator. Accompanied by a 24-hour time display and a complete calendar, this watch combines poetry and precision in a stainless steel case.
| Crystal | Hardened Mineral |
| Movement | Chinese Automatic |
| Caliber | Chinese |
| Case Diameter | 41 mm |
| Case Thickness | 11 mm |
| Materials | Stainless Steel Case and Bracelet |
| Water Resistance | 3 bar (30 meters) |
| Other Features | Moon Phase, 24-Hour Time, and Complete Calendar |
➜ Carnival T25 Tritium
Eternal luminosity is the hallmark of the T25 Tritium. Thanks to its T25 tritium lume, visibility remains constant in the dark. Protected by a sapphire crystal and equipped with a Japanese quartz movement, it’s the perfect watch for urban adventurers and night owls.
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Movement | Quartz |
| Caliber | Japanese |
| Case Diameter | 39 mm |
| Case Thickness | 11 mm |
| Materials | Stainless Steel Case and Bracelet |
| Water Resistance | 3 bar (30 meters) |
| Other Features | T25 Tritium Lume, Calendar with Day of the Week and Month |
In conclusion, Carnival watches offer an interesting blend of classic design, innovation, and quality at reasonable prices.
Whether you’re looking to delve into the world of watchmaking or simply want to add a new timepiece to your collection, Carnival could be the ideal choice for you.