Skmei watches are presented as the Chinese alternative to the popular Casio digital watches with a wide range of functions, but they are much more affordable.
Thanks to their versatile and sporty design, this brand of Chinese watches is gaining recognition for its durability and extensive range of features.
From digital models and sports watches to smartwatches, Skmei offers a diverse array of designs that appeal to consumers with different tastes and needs.
In this article, we will delve into the brand’s history, review the best Skmei watches, and analyze how they are manufactured to determine the level of quality they offer.
⌦ Skmei Watches and Their Origin
Skmei was established in the year 2010, a significant period during which the Chinese watch industry was undergoing notable expansion and modernization.
The parent company, Guangzhou SKMEI Watch Co., Ltd., originates from Guangzhou, a city with a rich tradition in technology and watch manufacturing.
Various brands like Cadisen, Carnival, and Poedagar, among many others, also have their headquarters here, showcasing it as a significant watchmaking hub in the Asian context.
The initial Skmei watches were considered imitations of more recognized brands like Casio, but the brand gradually developed its own designs.
Over the course of just over a decade, Skmei has created a wide range of designs and models, including LCD, LED, quartz analog, automatic watches, and even smartwatches.
It is also a manufacturing powerhouse, boasting 5 production lines covering an area of 6000 m² and employing around 100 people.
This robust infrastructure enables them to produce up to 300,000 units per month of their most popular digital sports watches.
This massive scale of production not only keeps costs low but also allows for constant innovation and quality improvement.
In fact, Skmei not only manufactures under its own brand but also participates in manufacturing for other well-known Chinese firms.
Currently, they not only sell their products through online platforms but have also established a presence in physical markets across various regions of the world.
Internationalization has been a logical step, given the brand’s ambition and global acceptance, extending beyond China’s borders to become a recognized name in more than 60 countries.
⌦ Are These Watches Good?
As with any other brand, it’s easy to determine the quality of Skmei watches by analyzing the various components and materials used in their construction.
While it’s important to note that these are sports watches, which predominantly use plastic materials that are lightweight and durable, they may not be very luxurious.
Every detail, from the crystal to the strap, contributes to the purpose of these affordable Chinese watches. Let’s take a closer look at each of them:
➜ Crystal
Acrylic crystal is predominantly used, a flexible and resilient plastic material that can withstand strong impacts but is susceptible to scratches.
The brand also manufactures some models with harder and more scratch-resistant mineral crystal, although it’s also more prone to breaking.
➜ Case
For this type of watch, it’s common to have a plastic resin case, which is durable and cost-effective. However, Skmei also uses metal in some models.
In the latter case, you can find cases made of alloy (also known as brass) as well as stainless steel cases.
Considering the brand’s price range, it’s likely to be stainless steel 304, which is of lower quality than the well-known 316L but still a better option than alloy brass.
➜ Strap
In line with the case, the most commonly used strap for these watches is rubber, although the brand also offers some models with steel bracelets.
While steel does add a touch of style and elegance, plastic materials are more suitable for the sporty use these watches are designed for.
➜ Movement
Most Skmei watches use multifunction quartz movements manufactured by the brand itself, so we’re talking about mechanisms of Chinese origin.
You can also find some models with movements of Japanese origin, although the brand doesn’t specify the manufacturer.
Regardless of their origin, Skmei watches typically offer various digital functions such as alarms, timers, pedometers, and even smart features in some models.
This versatility adds value to the watches, allowing users to choose the device that best suits their lifestyle and specific needs.
In conclusion, while Skmei watches may not directly compete with luxury watches in terms of premium materials, they can still offer solid performance that meets the expectations of budget-conscious consumers.
⌦ Review of the Best Skmei Watches
➜ Skmei 1637 Military
Featuring a robust 56mm resin case and hybrid analog-digital functionality, the Skmei 1637 Military is a watch built for action.
Furthermore, this multifunctional device includes dual time, alarm, stopwatch, calendar, and LED backlight to ensure visibility in extreme conditions.
It also boasts water resistance up to 50 meters, making it the ideal companion for any adventure.
| Crystal | Acrylic |
| Movement | Multifunction Quartz |
| Caliber | Skmei |
| Case Diameter | 56mm |
| Case Thickness | 20mm |
| Materials | Plastic Resin Case and PU Strap |
| Water Resistance | 5 bar (50 meters) |
| Other Features | Digital and analog, Dual time, alarm, stopwatch, calendar, and LED backlight |
➜ Skmei 1628
The 1628 model is a vintage-designed digital watch with a 44mm ABS case and “Sock resist” design to withstand adversity.
It also incorporates a wide range of features such as chronograph, timer, alarm, calendar, and LED backlight. It’s also water-resistant up to 50 meters.
| Crystal | Acrylic |
| Movement | Multifunction Quartz |
| Caliber | Skmei |
| Case Diameter | 44mm |
| Case Thickness | 12mm |
| Materials | ABS Case and PU Strap |
| Water Resistance | 5 bar (50 meters) |
| Other Features | Digital watch, Sock resist, chronograph, timer, alarm, calendar, and LED light |
➜ Skmei 1123 Classic
This elegant 33mm watch stands out with its classic design reminiscent of old Casio models, featuring an alloy case and stainless steel strap.
It’s also a digital watch that offers functionalities like alarm, chronograph, and calendar, making it highly versatile.
The model is completed with hardened mineral crystal and water resistance of up to 30 meters, making it a durable and practical accessory for daily wear.
| Crystal | Hardened Mineral |
| Movement | Multifunction Quartz |
| Caliber | Skmei |
| Case Diameter | 33mm |
| Case Thickness | 9mm |
| Materials | Alloy Case and Stainless Steel Strap |
| Water Resistance | 3 bar (30 meters) |
| Other Features | Digital watch, Alarm, chronograph, calendar, and LED light |
➜ Skmei 1251 Sport
Designed for sports enthusiasts, this watch offers an impressive 49mm plastic resin case with water resistance of up to 50 meters.
On its large backlit digital display, you can view dual time, alarm, chronograph, timer, and calendar, with large and well-detailed numbers.
Undoubtedly, it’s a reliable ally for any physical activity and various visibility conditions.
| Crystal | Acrylic |
| Movement | Multifunction Quartz |
| Caliber | Skmei |
| Case Diameter | 49mm |
| Case Thickness | 15mm |
| Materials | Plastic Resin Case and PU Strap |
| Water Resistance | 5 bar (50 meters) |
| Other Features | Digital watch, Dual time, alarm, chronograph, timer, calendar, and LED backlight |
➜ Skmei 1816
With a Japanese multifunction caliber and a 41mm alloy case, this model is the perfect combination of functionality and style.
The 1816 is a hybrid analog-digital watch that offers world time with DST, five alarms, chronograph, and timer. It also features a stainless steel strap.
| Crystal | Mineral |
| Movement | Multifunction Quartz |
| Caliber | Japanese |
| Case Diameter | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 18mm |
| Materials | Alloy Case and Stainless Steel Strap |
| Water Resistance | 5 bar (50 meters) |
| Other Features | Digital and analog, world time with DST, 5 alarms, chronograph, timer, calendar, and LED light |
In summary, this Chinese brand offers a diverse range of options ranging from sports models to smartwatches at very affordable prices.
While they are not considered luxury, Skmei watches stand out for their robustness and multiple functionalities, making them practical and versatile for daily wear or sports activities.
The materials used, such as plastic resin and acrylic crystal, while not premium, are durable and suitable for their intended use.
Furthermore, the brand has shown a capacity for innovation and continuous improvement, adding credibility to their offerings.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a functional and budget-friendly watch, Skmei watches are an option worth considering.