Anyone into watches?

[DaddyTorgo]

My goal for 2013 is going to be to like...(for lack of a better term) "class up myself."

Part of that is getting a nice watch, yes, but even more is getting a (again for lack of a better term) "1%er hobby." Not that I'm in the 1%, so we're not talking Rolexes, but a step (or two) down from that.

Just wondering if anybody else is into watches, and has a suggestion for a nice classic style one. Or hell - anybody here run a watch shop and want my business?

[Logan]

I would say I'm "into" watches. Unfortunately for me, my taste way outpaces my budget, e.g. when I passed a work exam a couple years ago (which came with a bonus of about $2K after taxes) I looked for a watch to spend that money on, and couldn't find something I liked that fit in there. So I own a few in the $200-$400 range and I'm still looking to add a dressier watch, very simple, just a black leather band with a white face.

Any sense of what sort of style you want? First question should be stainless steel vs leather band. Is this something you want to wear every day, and can wear with both a suit and also with some decent clothes you'd wear to a bar?

[DaddyTorgo]

I would say I'm "into" watches. Unfortunately for me, my taste way outpaces my budget, e.g. when I passed a work exam a couple years ago (which came with a bonus of about $2K after taxes) I looked for a watch to spend that money on, and couldn't find something I liked that fit in there. So I own a few in the $200-$400 range and I'm still looking to add a dressier watch, very simple, just a black leather band with a white face.

Any sense of what sort of style you want? First question should be stainless steel vs leather band. Is this something you want to wear every day, and can wear with both a suit and also with some decent clothes you'd wear to a bar?

Yeah - I wish I had the budget for the crazy expensive ones, the $10k plus ones. I have a nice Fossil automatic (copper, with a chronograph and a brown face), but thinking when I get my end-of-year check, really classing it up with something more expensive. Definitely stainless steel band, otherwise I get irritated wearing out the leather bands from taking it on and off at the gym. And yes, an everyday, but a classy everyday type of one that I can wear with a suit, or just out and about everyday.

Just from looking for my dad (I actually classed him up for XMas with a nice mechanical Bulova - the SS one with the blue-forged hands and peekabo-open chronograph), I have a rough sense if what I like in terms of styles (classic, nothing like say a Movado), more of a Bulova/Hamilton/Baume & Mercier/Frederic Constant), Roman numerals or just dashes, mechanical over automatic (preference), ambivilent on whether it includes a chronograph or is more plain-faced without one.

I liked some of the Hamilton ones that I saw at the store earlier, but then come to find out that Hamilton is just an upscale Swatch brand - if I'm going to shell out I kind of want something that's a bit...classier than that? LOL

Since I would want at least my initial one to be multi-use I'm probably looking at a steel case and steel face), but those are really dependent on the actual watch in the end.

[DaddyTorgo]

Basically thinking like...while some guys go out and tinker with their cars, or with building stuff (neither of which I have an aptitude for) and spend money on that, maybe I can develop an appreciation for watches and make a little collection of them.

Maybe it's a crazy idea that comes to nothing though, who knows.

[Logan]

The one watch I almost purchased at the time I referenced was a Baume & Mercier, and I looked at both the 8485 and 8592 Classima models. I actually bought the 8485 at one point but returned it, as I just didn't love it. The reason I was looking at B&M primarily was because my grandfather, who passed away about 5 years ago, worked for them for nearly 40 years, so I thought it would be nice to have. Maybe if he left me the money to buy it, I wouldn't have returned it! :)

[spleen1015]

I can't remember the last time I wore a watch. Maybe 15-18 years ago.

[CrimsonFox]

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/y1nuZrqULkM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[DaddyTorgo]

I can't remember the last time I wore a watch. Maybe 15-18 years ago.

It's definitely not a necessity in terms of practicality, but in terms of a fashion accessory.

[McLovin]

Omega Seamaster is a very nice watch at about 3k.

[Ryan S]

My primary watch is an Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra, but I also wear a much cheaper Tissot watch of a similar style if I am planning on doing something which might put the watch in danger.

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5137/5484997543_cc7e4d67f8_z.jpg

The watch I probably get the most comments on is the striking AU$80 Billabong watch I picked up in Australia, when I felt that walking around on a beach with a Omega on my wrist was perhaps not a bright idea.

[DaddyTorgo]

Oooh I do like that seamaster aqua Ryan!

[DougW]

Had one of these babies in middle school.

http://www.sync-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/calculator-watch.jpg

[Desnudo]

I love my tag heuer Kirium

http://www.topperjewelers.com/brands/pre_owned_select/images.products/tagHeuerQuartzKirium_1.jpg

Looking into getting a Seiko Pogue which some history with space exploration. Gold face is cheesy but I like it for some reason

http://forums.watchuseek.com/attachments/f21/457005d1308494739-lets-list-all-seiko-citizen-orient-nicknames-6139-6002_gold_crown_resize.jpg

[M GO BLUE!!!]

I can't stand jewelry. A few years ago I got a pocket watch and used it on a key chain (before the advent of the cellular phone & ipod.) Thought it was cool until the cheap pos broke.

[MacroGuru]

I own a bunch of Invicta's, Bulova's and an Omega. The Omega broke and is currently getting repaired, the Invicta's depending on where they are manufactured are great quality. It's the deal of the day ones that are the cheapo's that are shoddy.

As for the Bulova, or better watches, I have a buddy that owns Bulova watches, Wittnauer watches, Bulova Accutron watches, Bulova Caravelle watches (http://www.allamericanwatches.com/). Check it out, if you like a watch let me know, I might be able to get you a deal.

[DaddyTorgo]

I own a bunch of Invicta's, Bulova's and an Omega. The Omega broke and is currently getting repaired, the Invicta's depending on where they are manufactured are great quality. It's the deal of the day ones that are the cheapo's that are shoddy.

As for the Bulova, or better watches, I have a buddy that owns Bulova watches, Wittnauer watches, Bulova Accutron watches, Bulova Caravelle watches (http://www.allamericanwatches.com/). Check it out, if you like a watch let me know, I might be able to get you a deal.

Will do!

[Easy Mac]

Every watch I've ever worn has always lost time. I've had $5 watches and $200 watches, but after about a month they would all lose time and/or stop working. In not sure if I'm visited by aliens, or if I just have some weird effect on watches.

[CrimsonFox]

anyone ever have this?

http://www.handheldmuseum.com/Nelsonic/Nelsonic-PacManButtons.jpg

[Desnudo]

I did

[tyketime]

One of my favorite brands has been Movado - wide price range but I always thought classy looking. Here's one you may like:

http://www.movado.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/327x544/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/0/6/0606379w_459x719.jpg

Edit: just reread where you ruled out Movados. My bad. How about a Rado?

[sterlingice]

I love Skagens for how the mesh band distributes the weight on my wrist but it's not in the same "league" as what you're looking at. I have a rose gold and black titanium (http://www.amazon.com/Skagen-809XLTRB-Titanium-Collection-Multifunction/dp/B001WAKR32/) one but it's less than $100.

This thread reminds me of an article I saw somewhere the other day where Millennials collect watches for status (and materialism) not for practicality as cell phones are the primary time telling device for that generation.

SI

[CU Tiger]

In the <$3k price range hard to beat a Tag.

[Noop]

I am a huge fan of watches. I have a few pricey ones, but I will say that Rolex is a complete shit brand. My advice is to have a whole range from super cheesy to super expensive (but classy).

[Suburban Rhythm]

anyone ever have this?

http://www.handheldmuseum.com/Nelsonic/Nelsonic-PacManButtons.jpg

Nope...had this instead

http://cdn.wikimg.net/strategywiki/images/thumb/e/ea/Frogger_Nelsonic_watch.jpg/180px-Frogger_Nelsonic_watch.jpg

[Suburban Rhythm]

I can't stand jewelry. A few years ago I got a pocket watch and used it on a key chain (before the advent of the cellular phone & ipod.) Thought it was cool until the cheap pos broke.


Late 90's into early 2000's I carried a pocket watch. Not even sure what first prompted me to do so. Then when it broke, never repaired it, and never went back to a wristwatch either.

[MacroGuru]

In the <$3k price range hard to beat a Tag.

Tag or Omega...

[Ryan S]

Tag or Omega...

Not sure of the US prices, but in the UK there are a few quartz Omegas going for less than $3k.

[Chief Rum]

I am not into watches, but I did a buy a $200 Armani last year just for dress show (not every day use). So you all are on another level from me.

That said, I like the Armani. Steel band, faux jewelry on the outside of the ring, white face, keeps good time. Not one of the big, big face watches I have seen (I can't stand those), but a medium sized face.

If I could remember the model, I would go get an image of it.

[Chief Rum]

Oh, and I got it around the time I started one of these threads myself, DT. So you can do a search for my name and watches, and it should come right up. Just in case you're looking for more advice that may not be in this thread.

[Logan]

This Citizen is close to what I'm looking for, but would like a simpler face than the chronograph.

http://the247market.com/pics/citizen/citizen-mens-ca0331-05a-eco-drive-stainless-steel-chronograph-watch.jpg

I'm also thinking about just getting this Tissot and swapping the brown band for black, as the face is more along the lines of what I want.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41epoM3CqwL._SX385_.jpg

[DaddyTorgo]

Thanks Chief!

[DaddyTorgo]

That's a nice Tissot Logan

[stevew]

Somehow I saw this thread next to "sports welfare" thread and read it as "Anyone into water sports"

[Noop]

http://www.thewatchhut.co.uk/assets/products/lg-87WA120046-327812.jpg

http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/426x639/a_c/BALL_GQ_01Nov12_pr_b_426x639.jpg

http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/262x393/w_z/watch01_GQ_09Oct12_1280_262x393.jpg

[Edward64]

I'm into mechanical watches now. Not obsessed with quartz precision.

I do have a Rolex Datejust which I enjoy. For a beater, I wear a Seiko SARB035. Its not sold in the US but check it out at SeiyaJapan | Grand Seiko | G-Shock | Seiko Spirit | Prospex | Marinemaster | Citizen | 3.SEIKO AUTOMATIC (http://www.seiyajapan.com/c=fp77wj9UDH3nAAxgKLwbQTRNB/category/3_seiko_mechanical/)

[Grammaticus]

If you can't go with the Rolex, I would get a Tag. They are reasonably priced, classic and have outstanding durability and reliability.

[DaddyTorgo]

I'm into mechanical watches now. Not obsessed with quartz precision.

I do have a Rolex Datejust which I enjoy. For a beater, I wear a Seiko SARB035. Its not sold in the US but check it out at SeiyaJapan | Grand Seiko | G-Shock | Seiko Spirit | Prospex | Marinemaster | Citizen | 3.SEIKO AUTOMATIC (http://www.seiyajapan.com/c=fp77wj9UDH3nAAxgKLwbQTRNB/category/3_seiko_mechanical/)

That's a sexy Seiko, yeah.

[DaddyTorgo]

I am a huge fan of watches. I have a few pricey ones, but I will say that Rolex is a complete shit brand. My advice is to have a whole range from super cheesy to super expensive (but classy).

Why do you feel Rolex is shit Noop? Legitimately curious for your thoughts.

[DaddyTorgo]

If you can't go with the Rolex, I would get a Tag. They are reasonably priced, classic and have outstanding durability and reliability.

I mean I COULD go with a Rolex Datejust...yeah. But I'm not entirely sold on "starting" with a Rolex, ya know?

[Ryan S]

Why do you feel Rolex is shit Noop? Legitimately curious for your thoughts.

I am not a big Rolex fan, but that is mainly because they are so large on my wrist. I tend to prefer more subtle watches.

[Noop]

Why do you feel Rolex is shit Noop? Legitimately curious for your thoughts.

Overpriced. You're paying for the name. Rolex was Apple before Apple was Apple.

If that makes any sense.

[DaddyTorgo]

Overpriced. You're paying for the name. Rolex was Apple before Apple was Apple.

If that makes any sense.

Yep, makes sense. And I'm not a fan of being an Apple-fanboy. :)

[Ryan S]

Yep, makes sense. And I'm not a fan of being an Apple-fanboy. :)

There are some nice Rolex watches out there, but Rolex is kinda like Apple in that it is the default watch everyone thinks about when they think of expensive watches.

Cast your net far and wide, and go for what you like (and can afford) regardless of the brand.

[DaddyTorgo]

There are some nice Rolex watches out there, but Rolex is kinda like Apple in that it is the default watch everyone thinks about when they think of expensive watches.

Cast your net far and wide, and go for what you like (and can afford) regardless of the brand.

Yeah - I definitely think that's the case. I'm in the mood for something different that you don't see everyday as my first one - a Frederic Constant or a Baume & Mercier or even a Hamilton.

[The Afoci]

Looking at getting this watch. (http://www.uniformwares.com/251-series-brushed-steel-or-walnut-brown-leather) Anyone who knows anything about watches have any opinions?

[law90026]

Actually just bought a Frederique Constant recently and it looks something like this one Frédérique Constant | Watch - FC-306S4S6 (http://www.frederique-constant.com/en/collections/115/fc-306s4s6)

Have received some compliments on it and I have no complaints so far.

[Desnudo]

Invicta sale on woot

Invicta Watches Aplenty (http://www.woot.com/plus/invicta-watches-aplenty)

[MacroGuru]

Invicta sale on woot

Invicta Watches Aplenty (http://www.woot.com/plus/invicta-watches-aplenty)

Careful though...

Invicta has two factories, one in Mexico and one in Europe. The one in Mexico tend to make the watches that are sold for the deal of the days and they last less then a year typically. Bands break, hands fall off..etc.

I LOVE INVICTA, but you have to be careful.

[DaddyTorgo]

Updating this thread...haha. Probably a good idea since I started it.

I decided to start slow and see if I actually got use out of a watch for a few months, and picked up http://images.reeds.com/images/products/19/1907/d.19076520.jpg?ts=1351620480000

after Christmas. Liking it, and getting good use out of it, so might be time to think about classing-up, particularly once I've gotten my payout for what the firm owes me from last year and written my check to the taxman.