OT: Watch suggestions <$1k (Sinn 556i)

[IJWS]

Hey forumites, I am finishing a master's degree in May and I'm starting to look at watches. I'm looking for a nicely made mechanical watch on a bracelet that won't embarrass me in front of clients/bosses/father-in-law's etc.. that will all inevitably have a bigger bank accounts than mine for some time to come. So far, the one watch that keeps catching my eye is the Sinn 556i. It's so good-looking, but it seems a little overpriced compared to it's competitors. Who out there has one, and who out there has an opinion about one?

Thanks!

[jr59]

http://www.jomashop.com/oris-watch-735-7641-4164mb.html?utm_source=googleproduct&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=googleproductsearch&ref=frgle&gclid=CJy3zeKj4sMCFdgQgQod6BUAxQ

[Louis]

Seiko SKX007 automatic diver. $150 grey-market on Amazon.

It has the legendary 7s26 movement and a cult following. (Google it and you'll see.)

Do you want to impress folks with how much you paid, or do you want a great movement?

http://monochrome-watches.com/seiko-skx007-family-seiko-beater-divers/

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRQlUv869f_szcJMMJhnsxDAhQk8igC3 MtpZ8Hwo2m2nCSOOm0v1A

[AngryScientist]

i have heard nothing but great about Sinn, though i dont own one myself.

i do own an two oris watches, and they are superb.

at a slightly lower price point, Hamilton is worth consideration.

http://ep.yimg.com/ay/jomashop/hamilton-maestro-automatic-grey-dial-stainless-steel-watch-h42515185-44.jpg

[msl819]

My wife bought me this for our 10 year anniversary. I have enjoyed it very much. Not sure your taste but it get great review. The Seiko "tuna cans" can be had sub 1k if you like that style.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001M5U03Y/ref=mp_s_a_1_sc_1?qid=1423947764&sr=8-1-spell&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&keywords=seiko+titianium+diver

[VTCaraco]

I've admired Sinn before, too.

But I can offer another first-hand vote for Oris and Hamilton.

I decided that I wanted a nice mechanical watch about 10-15 years ago. Wanted something competent, but not excessive. I knew that different brands were different and that some justified a bigger price tag than others, but I didn't see a need to overpay for a particular name. I read lots of reviews and looked at lots of pictures and Oris struck me as a very nice piece at a relatively fair price.
Served me very well until this past summer when, due to my negligence, I ended up with a gasket compromise and some fogging. Not a big deal, but it did require a complete servicing to be back to new condition.

A few years ago I decided that I wanted my son to have a nice mechanical piece, too. For him, we picked a Hamilton and it's a handsome, solid timepiece.

While my watch was in for repair, I missed having something solid so picked up a Maratac Pilot (after admiring EchelonJohn's watch) and find that I like that one a whole bunch, too.


When I see Sinn or Omega or other pieces that have always struck me, I grow tempted to add to my collection. Thus far, I've been able to resist. But one nice mechanical watch has become two nice pieces. In other words, watches can be a lot like bikes in so much as you start out with a reasonable goal and can end up at n+1 in a hurry.

[1centaur]

I wear a Sinn U1 which was overpriced for what it is but I love it.

Before you spend $1k on that 556i, please spend some time watching watch shows on ShopNBC. I am not kidding. There you will see what the guts of the 556i are really worth. An ETA 2824 movement is an entry level automatic movement; a sapphire crystal should be expected on anything over $300, and the bracelet on that model is fairly standard looking. You are paying up for the Sinn name and the German connotation, IMO. I paid up for the U1 because the dial face spoke to me over a couple of years and I learned how much instant readability really meant after having some cooler watches that were a struggle to read. I also liked the U-boat steel thing, as stupid as that is.

IMO the dial face on the 556i is much less distinctive against the competition than the U1. It is by no means a bad face for the use you intend, but it will attract no attention from either watch snobs or watch newbies, and you can achieve the same for less elsewhere.

I say take your time and get something a little more distinctive if you want to send a message with your watch. Go on watch forums and hunt down lesser known German brands, for example. Consider a used watch from a reputable seller if you want more status and don't have the budget. I bet you will be glad if you take your time (call it 3 months) and just look at a lot of watches and read forum comments.

[buddybikes]

Get a nice solid gold vintage dress watch for such meetings rather than bulky one. I have one identical to this http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/331468141218?lpid=82&chn=ps

what your looking at is a sport watch

[jr59]

Look at Stowa as well.

But bang for the buck, in a new watch, Seiko, Oris

[wallymann]

if going new or near-new you cant beat hamiltons.

i love me some sinn, i've owned 12 of them! have settled on a hand-wound 903 (http://brown-snout.com/horology/collection/sinn_903-hd_navigator/P1010698.JPG). you cant go wrong with that 556 -- it's a great choice and you get more than you're paying for. IMO it stands up to watches costing a fair bit more.

might also consider tissot or oris in that price range. maybe even eterna.

[Shortsocks]

I LOVE Accutron Watches with Tuning Fork movements. Nothing IMO beats the Hum that these watches make, as well as the freakishly fluid second hand.
I just picked up one of these...actually my wife surprised me with it. Accutron 1967 218 movement. Craziest movement. Love these tuning fork movements.

http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j323/prelude97si/341DC908-4029-4412-A0EE-D6A6880D7E5B.jpg (http://s1080.photobucket.com/user/prelude97si/media/341DC908-4029-4412-A0EE-D6A6880D7E5B.jpg.html)

[binxnyrwarrsoul]

Get a nice solid gold vintage dress watch for such meetings rather than bulky one. I have one identical to this http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/331468141218?lpid=82&chn=ps

what your looking at is a sport watch

That is classy. Likewise the Omega Constellation below. Watches like that, imho ooze class.

To the OP, talk to/PM jr59, oldpotatoe of the watch world.

[EPOJoe]

I have a few nice vintage watches, and a Sinn U1, and while the U1 seems to be the only thing I really wear these days, you can't go wrong with a vintage Omega like the Constellation. You should be able to pick up a nice '60's era version in stainless or gold plate for around $500 and with another $100 for a full service, you'd have a classic with a movement that's of far higher quality than you'd find in a Sinn.

[bking]

i've got a couple tissot, blancpain and a vacheron c.

i've been admiring a sinn u 2 for some time, and at some point i'm sure i'll do it. good watch. like someone said above, i always lean towards a watch that's easily read in poor light etc.

i'd also add another vote for hamilton as well. solid watch without being too expensive.

[IJWS]

Everyone, thanks for the replies!

1Centaur, I agree, I have time on my side so to speak. Waiting has worked out well for me for bike and stereo stuff...it's nice not to need anything

I will take the Oris reference from JR59 seriously since people have strongly recommended JR59's expertise.

the SKX007 that Louis recommended is actually a really fun-looking option and one of my friends just got one recently and is super-happy with it. And the price is low enough that I could pick one up while waiting for something more serious.

Shortsocks, that's a slick watch.

Steveandbarb1, if I was looking for a dress watch, I would just go with a Junghans Max bill (http://www.chronomaster.co.uk/images/1000/313/fancybox_b156_max_bill_3.jpg) hands-down. A kind of left field watch would be an orient bambino (http://wornandwound.com/2012/08/29/review-orient-bambino-er24004b/) although that's not a "serious" watch, it's very nice looking and affordable.

Searching for a vintage Omega seems like a fun way to kill time online, and that constellation is beautiful.

Does anyone have an opinion about the Mido Multifort (http://www.jomashop.com/mido-watch-m005-430-11-061-00.html?utm_source=googleproduct&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=googleproductsearch&ref=frgle&gclid=CJCtr8m_4sMCFQho7Aod7jsArg)?

Anyway, thanks again for the advice. Cheers!

[thirdgenbird]

As much as I want a mechanical watch, you can get a 60s accutron spaceview for a pretty resonable price. Add a seiko or citizen nighthawk for daily wear and you would still be well under budget.

I'm pretty sure I would notice, and admire, a clean spaceview.


Me? I've already got a nighthawk and have been eyeing Speedmaster Mark IIs, both original and the rerelease.

[malcolm]

I wear a Sinn U1 which was overpriced for what it is but I love it.

Before you spend $1k on that 556i, please spend some time watching watch shows on ShopNBC. I am not kidding. There you will see what the guts of the 556i are really worth. An ETA 2824 movement is an entry level automatic movement; a sapphire crystal should be expected on anything over $300, and the bracelet on that model is fairly standard looking. You are paying up for the Sinn name and the German connotation, IMO. I paid up for the U1 because the dial face spoke to me over a couple of years and I learned how much instant readability really meant after having some cooler watches that were a struggle to read. I also liked the U-boat steel thing, as stupid as that is.

IMO the dial face on the 556i is much less distinctive against the competition than the U1. It is by no means a bad face for the use you intend, but it will attract no attention from either watch snobs or watch newbies, and you can achieve the same for less elsewhere.

I say take your time and get something a little more distinctive if you want to send a message with your watch. Go on watch forums and hunt down lesser known German brands, for example. Consider a used watch from a reputable seller if you want more status and don't have the budget. I bet you will be glad if you take your time (call it 3 months) and just look at a lot of watches and read forum comments.

I'm a fan of sinn watches. I don't know about the 556i, but many of the sinns while using common movements are highly modified in house, which is kinda what they are known for. Again I don't know anything about the specific model in question.

I'll second stowa, they have gone up in price in the past few years though.

[Peter B]

Look at Stowa as well.

But bang for the buck, in a new watch, Seiko, Oris

+1 on Stowa. I have these two and both are pretty nice for the price.

[choke]

Your desired use and style of dress are factors in choosing the watch. While many people think that a diver or chronograph is fine with a suit, I'm more of a traditionalist and think that they look out of place. I think that a suit is best complemented by a simple watch, though of course that's just my opinion. If your dress will be more casual then pretty much anything goes.

Having said that...

Sinn does make a nice watch. I have owned one in the past and I was happy with the quality.

The Seiko 007 is an excellent choice. You might also consider a Seiko 5 if you want something less sporty.

Vintage watches are often very inexpensive. You can easily find a nice 14k watch for less than the price of a many new stainless watches. IMO they go great with a suit. The downside to vintage watches is that they're often a smaller diameter than what is considered fashionable today.

Just as in buying bikes, if you go with a used watch you can save money. There are a number of places on the net with a good reputation which sell used watches.

And yes, JR59 knows a bit about watches.

[Idris Icabod]

I've got an Omega but probably over your budget. I wanted to mention Baume and Mercier. I bought my wife a Tag Heuer when my second daughter was born that kept losing time, it was repaired multiple times over more than 2 years until the jeweler eventually declared it a lemon and gave us our money back. Wife liked a Baume and Mercier, it was less than the Tag, about $2K at the shop (but would move on that price) but Jomashop had it as a deal of the day for less than $1K.

[1centaur]

I have to say I like the Sinn 556i a little better after reading this review:

http://wornandwound.com/2014/08/20/sinn-556i-review/

since the display back and colored rotor gives it some distinctiveness at the price point and I do like the readability.

Watch taste is very personal, as I have observed on this and other forums. Nobody has ever commented on my U1, so most people are just not that into watches, but my experience is that if you dig a look and it stays with you for months, you will be happy to have it. Mistakes are made when you decide to buy quickly on a short-term emotional impression.

[VTCaraco]

Nobody has ever commented on my U1, so most people are just not that into watches, but my experience is that if you dig a look and it stays with you for months, you will be happy to have it.

I LOVE the U1.
Have coveted it and almost bought one a number of times :banana:

[shamsixnine]

Save your money until you can get one of these. They're not that much over your budget. All in house movement. You will not regret.

http://www.nomos-glashuette.com

[KF9YR]

You guys are going to get me in trouble here.

I have an Omega Ti Chronometer that I wear as my go-to-work watch and a Tag Gold-and-stainless dress watch but saw the Seiko 007 earlier in this thread and ordered one from eBay.

Now I looked up that Sinn U1 and see there is a Ti version that is calling me with a sirens song...

To the OP, I have two restaurants and spend a lot of time talking to my customers. One of my stores is across the street from an airport and there is a Honeywell aviation division right next to us. The pilots and aviation engineers comment on the Omega but I don't think most people even notice.

I feel a watch needs to be appreciated by it's wearer but I really don't care what other people think of it. Find one that you like and wear it.

[Louis]

One of my stores is across the street from an airport and there is a Honeywell aviation division right next to us. The pilots and aviation engineers comment on the Omega but I don't think most people even notice.

If you want to talk their language get the Bremont Boeing. Only $6.5k and made of high-tech stainless steel or aviation grade Ti-64 titanium.

http://www.bremont.com/chronometers/range/bremont-boeing/model-247-bk#selector

http://static1.squarespace.com/static/4fa14d3ce4b08a53fa26468e/t/53713e0fe4b074c2fd1d3864/1399930390710/Baselworld_Day3_078.jpg?format=1000w

http://static1.squarespace.com/static/4fa14d3ce4b08a53fa26468e/t/537140c0e4b07f58912969a0/1399931075271/?format=1000w

[thirdgenbird]

I've got an Omega but probably over your budget. I wanted to mention Baume and Mercier. I bought my wife a Tag Heuer when my second daughter was born that kept losing time, it was repaired multiple times over more than 2 years until the jeweler eventually declared it a lemon and gave us our money back. Wife liked a Baume and Mercier, it was less than the Tag, about $2K at the shop (but would move on that price) but Jomashop had it as a deal of the day for less than $1K.

If the OP doesn't mind, I would like to hear more about Baume & Mercier. The Capeland is similar in features to the carerra and Speedmaster I like at a much lower cost.

[msl819]

That is classy. Likewise the Omega Constellation below. Watches like that, imho ooze class.

To the OP, talk to/PM jr59, oldpotatoe of the watch world.

Good advice right there!

[KF9YR]

The Bremont is very nice but I just built my Eriksen Mtb frame up a couple days ago so I'll have to build up the toy fund again before getting one of those!

[jr59]

Everyone, thanks for the replies!

1Centaur, I agree, I have time on my side so to speak. Waiting has worked out well for me for bike and stereo stuff...it's nice not to need anything

I will take the Oris reference from JR59 seriously since people have strongly recommended JR59's expertise.

the SKX007 that Louis recommended is actually a really fun-looking option and one of my friends just got one recently and is super-happy with it. And the price is low enough that I could pick one up while waiting for something more serious.

Shortsocks, that's a slick watch.

Steveandbarb1, if I was looking for a dress watch, I would just go with a Junghans Max bill (http://www.chronomaster.co.uk/images/1000/313/fancybox_b156_max_bill_3.jpg) hands-down. A kind of left field watch would be an orient bambino (http://wornandwound.com/2012/08/29/review-orient-bambino-er24004b/) although that's not a "serious" watch, it's very nice looking and affordable.

Searching for a vintage Omega seems like a fun way to kill time online, and that constellation is beautiful.

Does anyone have an opinion about the Mido Multifort (http://www.jomashop.com/mido-watch-m005-430-11-061-00.html?utm_source=googleproduct&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=googleproductsearch&ref=frgle&gclid=CJCtr8m_4sMCFQho7Aod7jsArg)?

Anyway, thanks again for the advice. Cheers!


Mido is another under ratted brand. Normally, well made with work horse movements. Nothing at all wrong with the Orient, just different and not to well known here. There are 100's of watches like this. Well made cases, and bands, with very good movements for a reasonable amount of money. Really, to many to list.

Thanks to all that have recommended me, I'll help where I can.
BTW; being the Old spud of watches is a huge leap, but thanks anyway!

[jlwdm]

I would stay away from yellow gold or two tone. Not a great look. I do have one rose gold dress watch.

I like the Nomos, but they are all smaller than I wear.

The Bremont Boeing white face is my favorite Bremont, but I am a little worried about the brand after the trouble they got in last fall - claiming to be more than they are. There will be a Bremont rep at a watch event I am going to in two weeks so I will get to look at the Boeing.

Jeff

[Steve in SLO]

Lots of good suggestions here.
Watches are like bikes: everybody has a favorite and everybody has strong taste with regards to them. What is important is what smiles up at you from your wrist.
One of the best sites to look at a ton of pictures of watches in short order is
http://www.watchrecon.com
it is a search engine for watches for sale by private owners. You can look at the pictures to hone in on what styles you like and go from there.
If you are going to buy new, take a look at European websites, since the euro is weak right now, and the ex-VAT prices are pretty attractive.

Also: Before you spring for a watch, make sure you try one on, or at least try something on that is in the same size range. Watches have generally gotten larger over the past 10 years, and do not fit everybody's wrists. On the flipside, many beautiful vintage watches appear much too small by today's standards.

[rpm]

For something a little different, consider a Padron watch. They are hand made, one at a time in Minneapolis, by a former frame builder, Leo Padron:

http://www.padronwatchco.com/

[Louis]

I'm amazed by how many different watch brands there are out there. It's pretty obvious based on the variety, prices (and lack of accuracy of so many high-zoot watches) that telling time well is pretty far down the list of important watch functions.

As an an engineer, I refuse to let form overwhelm function to that extent, and to that end my next purchase might be a Casio "atomic" with automatic updates from the WWVB Fort Collins NIST time signal. But yes, most of those G-Shock options are not the best-looking watches in the world...

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51uJ-pWfc9L.jpg

[Steve in SLO]

Here is an example of what I was talking about in my above post: the watch on the left is from the 1950s, and was a standard size dress watch at approximately 35 mm. The Sinn is about 39mm, while the watch on the right is 42+ mm. There are now a number of watches much bigger than this, so getting a feel for what is the best size for your wrist is a good first step.

[Louis]

And some are pretty "fat" height-wise, and with all the knobs and various gizmos they often have sticking out they can catch pretty easily. Takes some getting used to.

But yes, these days bigger is definitely considered better.

[Chris]

I have a Tag Heuer 6000 that my wife bought me when I completed my master's program. It's a beautiful watch and was north of $2k when she bought it. It has a 38mm body which is ok for very dressy situations but too small for me for other stuff these days. I've thought about selling it, but it's hard to let it go. A replacement band is $875 retail, but the watches are going for $500 on eBay... At any rate, to me, that's one of the drawbacks to buying a super nice watch. In a few years, styles have changed. I think your price range is much more reasonable. In that price range, or a little lower, I really like Tissot. I have a t-touch and am eyeing the t-touch classic (http://www.watchesyoucanafford.com/tissot-t-touch-classic-review/). However, for sheer affordability and go almost anywhere style, my SKX007 with wjean super-oyster bracelet really fits the bill.

Edit: I have the navy blue version of that g-shock above and love it.

[tumbler]

I second the Oris recommendation. They are fantastic watches and you don't see them all over the place. Here's my Aquis...

[tumbler]

Along with Oris, you should also look at Stowa. Hoping to add one of these to my collection soon.

[RFC]

I have suffered from the watch Jones, buying and selling them like commodities on the watch sites, and have owned as many as 60 at a time including Sinns, Omegas, Seikos, vintage dive watches, and a bunch of obscure brands you have probably never heard of.

I am now down to about, more or less, four -- Omega Speedmaster, Hamilton GMT, Seiko "Orange Monster" dive watch, Citizen Titanium Skyhawk, and maybe a couple of more.

The fact is, that most people pay little attention to your watch unless it is bright orange or something.

My advice? Take a look at the solar powered Citizen Skyhawk in SS or Ti. Totally classy, cool, handsome and techy. And it's also cycling compatible!

[oldpotatoe]

Pre owned stainless Rolex DateJust?

[jr59]

Pre owned stainless Rolex DateJust?

Hard to get at the price point the OP gave. Although a timeless classic.

[sjbraun]

Just starting out after completing a graduate degree...
Maybe the OP should read the concurrent retirement thread, and then buy a Timex.

[IJWS]

Well, I'm just planning on that advertised 10-15% return from Morgan Stanley :banana::banana: Kidding btw.

[TexasJohn]

Check out Shinola...and they also make bikes!!
http://www.shinola.com/shop/watches.html

[malcolm]

I'll add a few things from my perspective to help justify spending dollars on a time piece.

Someone mentioned ETA movements and basically suggested how could a watch with a 2824 ETA which you can find in a sub $300 watch be worth X, ETA is one of the most common movements on the planet. Their movements including the 2824 come in multiple grades mostly related to accuracy and as you go up in grade the cost also increases, so all ETA 2824s are not equal. Many manufacturers then modify them further, making it even more difficult to make a sweeping statement about a particular movement. Very few makers create their own movement from scratch. Many that purport making their own actually just put on a different/fancy rotor and if you look closely when disassembled you find house of swatch on there somewhere which means ETA.

When I think watch I think mechanical, sorry but quartz and electronic time pieces are just not watches to me. A watch is a tiny machine that you can wear on your wrist or keep in your pocket that does not require a battery. If accuracy is your primary concern just use your phone it'll always be more accurate. If you just like the look or use them as jewelry then quartz is fine. Which brings up my final point and main justification.

Most men don't wear jewelry or at least not much. I think that is a justification for spending more than necessary on a watch, if you like them. A good watch will last basically your life time and can be passed on to your offspring so when you divide 1-7k over a life time they really are not that expensive and if you choose wisely you'll use it everyday.

Disclaimer it's all my opinion, I don't not how to add emoticons but I'd put one here and N+1 with watches is equally if not more likely than bicycles.

and I do realize that you can spend way more than 7k on a watch but hey if you got that kind of cash you don't need justification

[jr59]

I'm somewhat sure that we on this board shouldn't be telling each other how to spend your money. I mean after all, just look at the bikes we ride.

Buy what you like and enjoy. Take care of it and it will last a lifetime, maybe longer!

[1centaur]

It can be a slippery slope to look for "value" in an expensive watch. Buyers look for interesting dial faces, but every watch beyond the cheap ones has a sapphire crystal and the case material is likely steel below $3k and the workmanship does not cost much on the outside so it all devolves towards the movement - unique movements can cost a lot, especially if worked on by Swiss people rather than Asian people, and more accuracy is worth more than less accuracy.

An ETA 2824-2 starts at $239 retail but big buyers can get big discounts from that. The accuracy of that movement is modest. With some expense it can be modified to be more accurate, but not really, really accurate, so paying up in order to set your watch twice a month instead of 4 times a month seems not particularly worth it. You can get 2824 movements in the occasional $500 watch on ShopNBC or $3k+ watches from some Euro brands and the rest of the watch is not obviously more expensive to make. So I resisted the U1 because it was nearly $2k and I knew I was paying for a face I liked and not "value," but I bit the bullet and every time I look at it I am glad I did.

[wallymann]

Anyway, thanks again for the advice. Cheers!

also, be forewarned...you are heading down a dangerous path...

http://brown-snout.com/horology/misc/horological-insanity.jpeg (http://brown-snout.com/horology/collection/collection.html)

[dancinkozmo]

...as a counterpoint to the previous post. :)

http://images.mec.ca/fluid/customers/c822/5007-038/generated/5007-038_NOC02_view1_720x720.jpg

[sandyrs]

also, be forewarned...you are heading down a dangerous path...

omg

[oldpotatoe]

http://www.jomashop.com/oris-watch-735-7641-4164mb.html?utm_source=googleproduct&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=googleproductsearch&ref=frgle&gclid=CJy3zeKj4sMCFdgQgQod6BUAxQ

Is the 'bubble' over a Rolex date some sort of copyright/patent gig? Never seen it on any other watch. I could't see date w/o it.

[jr59]

Is the 'bubble' over a Rolex date some sort of copyright/patent gig? Never seen it on any other watch. I could't see date w/o it.

No it is not, And you need better glasses. :p:banana:

http://www.jomashop.com/cartier-w62025v3.html

[choke]

An ETA 2824-2 starts at $239 retail but big buyers can get big discounts from that. The accuracy of that movement is modest. With some expense it can be modified to be more accurate, but not really, really accurate, so paying up in order to set your watch twice a month instead of 4 times a month seems not particularly worth it. I'm don't think that the cost of a movement has any bearing on its accuracy. While I really don't care that they're super accurate, one time just for s&g I checked mine after changing them for DST. My most accurate by far....losing 3 seconds over the period of a month IIRC.....was an inexpensive SandY 490 which has an ETA 2801 movement.

[Steve in SLO]

also, be forewarned...you are heading down a slippery slope...

Ha! Amateur!
:beer:

[RFC]

I'm don't think that the cost of a movement has any bearing on its accuracy. While I really don't care that they're super accurate, one time just for s&g I checked mine after changing them for DST. My most accurate by far....losing 3 seconds over the period of a month IIRC.....was an inexpensive SandY 490 which has an ETA 2801 movement.

I have easily tuned Seiko dive watches to +-1 sec/day.

[1centaur]

You can look up the wiki on the 2824 and they will describe how there are levels of 2824 and the better levels are more accurate; they give seconds per month of accuracy difference in that source.

That said, sometimes one gets lucky and something just is very accurate even if it did not cost much. And as often said, electronic watches and phones are more accurate anyway, so paying up for a much more accurate movement on an automatic is of questionable value.

[Louis]

...as a counterpoint to the previous post. :)

With bikes you can only ride one at a time, but I suppose with watches you can wear as many as you like...

I only have one winder and don't plan on getting more, so I'm pretty much at my limit for automatics. If I get anything more it will be an "atomic" for the accuracy, but I see that there are clocks sold for $25 that can do the job, so it will be difficult to justify spending a lot on a watch just to get that. Plus, super-accurate time is only a web site away at the Naval Observatory site.

[thirdgenbird]

This thread imay result in me buying a swiss mechanical that I don't need...

[Chris]

I appreciate the craftsmanship of a mechanical watch, but there is something really nice about being able to pull out my quartz watch, put it on the wrist and go without any adjustments or concerns about accuracy.

[bcroslin]

Along with Oris, you should also look at Stowa. Hoping to add one of these to my collection soon.

I really like that Stowa. Very nice.

The Hodinkee website is full of lust-after watches (http://www.hodinkee.com) and they make some sharp bands. The site is full of inspiration for watch styles and watch history.

After spending a bunch of money on a Tag Heuer I never wore I sold it to my brother-in-law the lawyer and bought a Seiko and never looked back. Cost $250 and is indestructible and looks good.

http://www.bluedial.com/images/Items/SNDA57.jpg

[IJWS]

This thread imay result in me buying a swiss mechanical that I don't need...

Mission accomplished?

[everbeek]

I had a 656 that I really enjoyed for almost 3 years and sold it on eBay for more than I paid for it new. This was about 3.5 years ago. You will able to read the clean face of your 556i well into your 80s and the style will still look great well after you are dead no matter which styling fads come and go in the interim. It is overpriced.
-Mike

Hey forumites, I am finishing a master's degree in May and I'm starting to look at watches. I'm looking for a nicely made mechanical watch on a bracelet that won't embarrass me in front of clients/bosses/father-in-law's etc.. that will all inevitably have a bigger bank accounts than mine for some time to come. So far, the one watch that keeps catching my eye is the Sinn 556i. It's so good-looking, but it seems a little overpriced compared to it's competitors. Who out there has one, and who out there has an opinion about one?

Thanks!

[LouDeeter]

I've enjoyed this thread. I love watches, but as I'm retired, I no longer need the high end wrist bling. I've got a Maurice Lacroix Masterpiece that needs a new home should anyone be in the market.

[dancinkozmo]

hoping to add this timepiece to my collection someday....will need to liquify some assets however

http://mickeyfix.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Disney-Mickey-Mouse-Classic-Watch.jpg

[thirdgenbird]

Mission accomplished?

Something like that :)

[jlwdm]

I've enjoyed this thread. I love watches, but as I'm retired, I no longer need the high end wrist bling. I've got a Maurice Lacroix Masterpiece that needs a new home should anyone be in the market.

I buy watches for myself so I do not see my watch needs changing when I retire.

Jeff

[rugbysecondrow]

This is the watch I will get before the summer boating season. Classic



Seiko SKX007 automatic diver. $150 grey-market on Amazon.

It has the legendary 7s26 movement and a cult following. (Google it and you'll see.)

Do you want to impress folks with how much you paid, or do you want a great movement?

http://monochrome-watches.com/seiko-skx007-family-seiko-beater-divers/

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRQlUv869f_szcJMMJhnsxDAhQk8igC3 MtpZ8Hwo2m2nCSOOm0v1A

[AngryScientist]

This is the watch I will get before the summer boating season. Classic

i've got one too, but i loathe that stock band, it's just too bulky for the watch to wear as nicely as it can. put that baby on a NATO strap, and it's golden!

[bcroslin]

i've got one too, but i loathe that stock band, it's just too bulky for the watch to wear as nicely as it can. put that baby on a NATO strap, and it's golden!

http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0146/0732/products/Straps_193_large.jpg?v=1396889225

NATO straps (http://shop.hodinkee.com/collections/nato-straps)

[Louis]

i've got one too, but i loathe that stock band, it's just too bulky for the watch to wear as nicely as it can. put that baby on a NATO strap, and it's golden!

I just bought one of these straps with white stitching for my SKX007. Haven't had a chance to put it on yet. (I decided that I didn't want to go with a Nato strap, mostly because my two other daily-driver watches are on Nato straps, plus they're a bit plain, unless you go color, which I did not want to do.)

http://www.ebay.com/itm/22mm-PVC-Composite-Rubber-Diver-Strap-Black-Watch-Band-fit-OMEGA-PO-Maratac-22-/120700008480?pt=US_Watch_Bands&hash=item1c1a47f820

http://i.ebayimg.com/15/!BzZwcoQEGk~$(KGrHqZ,!jQEw5Ptp(lDBMV3j8h!mQ~~_1.JP G

[Steve in SLO]

http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0146/0732/products/Straps_193_large.jpg?v=1396889225

NATO straps (http://shop.hodinkee.com/collections/nato-straps)
Not a great source for NATO bands currently, since all the nylon ones are sold out, and the leather ones are $85.
ZULU bands are really nice, but a bit on the higher end for NATO style straps. The famous auction site is a great place to find a variety of NATO straps, but buyer beware as far as quality is concerned.
I am not a fan of the extra metal rings and backing strip on most of these bands, so I modify them to get rid of the extra rings and strip. It makes the watch sit a bit lower on your wrist.

[choke]

Not a great source for NATO bands currently, since all the nylon ones are sold out, and the leather ones are $85.
ZULU bands are really nice, but a bit on the higher end for NATO style straps. The famous auction site is a great place to find a variety of NATO straps, but buyer beware as far as quality is concerned.
I am not a fan of the extra metal rings and backing strip on most of these bands, so I modify them to get rid of the extra rings and strip. It makes the watch sit a bit lower on your wrist.The Zulus are nice. I like the Maratac Mil-series bands as well.

This is a good source for both of those - http://www.broadarrow.net/maratac.htm

[buddybikes]

Nothing like a beautiful pocket watch. Funny used to wear one all the time back when I wore suits. Suits even had watch pockets.

http://media.liveauctiongroup.net/i/9063/10164665_2.jpg?v=8CD81DCB1B18F60

[rugbysecondrow]

I don't think this is wrong, but here is a different perspective.

My thoughts: I like the idea of a mechanical watch, sort of like I like the idea of a garden. It is cool, until you have to tend to your watch. I wear other watches and often put mine down for a few days, then I have to reset the time. I don't want to work for the watch, it should work for me.

So, my thoughts: When you get a mechanical watch like the Omega, it is more than a tool. It is equipment which you will have to tend to and pay to maintain. If you are cool with this, then go for it. Me, I want my watch to help me, be a tool for me... if I were to go mechanical again, it would be something simple like the Seiko dive watch mentioned earlier.



When I think watch I think mechanical, sorry but quartz and electronic time pieces are just not watches to me. A watch is a tiny machine that you can wear on your wrist or keep in your pocket that does not require a battery. If accuracy is your primary concern just use your phone it'll always be more accurate. If you just like the look or use them as jewelry then quartz is fine. Which brings up my final point and main justification.

Most men don't wear jewelry or at least not much. I think that is a justification for spending more than necessary on a watch, if you like them. A good watch will last basically your life time and can be passed on to your offspring so when you divide 1-7k over a life time they really are not that expensive and if you choose wisely you'll use it everyday.

Disclaimer it's all my opinion, I don't not how to add emoticons but I'd put one here and N+1 with watches is equally if not more likely than bicycles.

and I do realize that you can spend way more than 7k on a watch but hey if you got that kind of cash you don't need justification

[rugbysecondrow]

i've got one too, but i loathe that stock band, it's just too bulky for the watch to wear as nicely as it can. put that baby on a NATO strap, and it's golden!

Being a bigger guy, I am hoping it fits nicely stock, but if not, the Nato is good option too. That is part of the allure is the options you have to make the watch comfortable and stylish for little $$$.

[Ozz]

Seiko SKX007 automatic diver. $150 grey-market on Amazon.

It has the legendary 7s26 movement and a cult following. (Google it and you'll see.)

Do you want to impress folks with how much you paid, or do you want a great movement?

http://monochrome-watches.com/seiko-skx007-family-seiko-beater-divers/

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRQlUv869f_szcJMMJhnsxDAhQk8igC3 MtpZ8Hwo2m2nCSOOm0v1A

Bingo....great watch, inexpensive enough to get a couple.....here is mine on a Zulu band:

Bonus info: get the skx007J (made in Japan)

[thirdgenbird]

Bumping this back up.

I am looking at:
Baume & Mercier Capland chronograph - new
Fortis B42 chronograph - used

The fortis is a few hundred more. I am also toying with the idea of a Heuer Incaboc. It looks to be in good shape, but the sub dial hands make me question if it is original. I would also need to find a nice bracelet. Not a strap guy.

[IJWS]

That Fortis Cosmonaut B 42 is very nice looking. The dial is cleaner and more purposeful looking than the Mercier. What is your price range? If you're close, you should consider holding out for one of these Damasko (http://www.damaskousa.com/Damasko-DC56-Automatic-Chronograph-Watch-With-Bracelet)'s The effort put into the bracelet alone is impressive. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0OOy-GMqB0
On the lower end of the price-range, I am looking seriously at this Mido Multifort Chronograph (http://www.jomashop.com/mido-watch-m005-614-11-061-00.html) That seems to get reviewed well and looks really great (to me) http://www.mcbroom.biz/PMWF/Mido_Multifort_review.htm

[buldogge]

^^^I really like the Damaskos...but...unless you need the extra functions, i would save some dosh and just get the DA34/36/38, personally.

Damasko will probably be my next watch purchase...FWIW.

-Mark in St. Louis

[jr59]

That Fortis Cosmonaut B 42 is very nice looking. The dial is cleaner and more purposeful looking than the Mercier. What is your price range? If you're close, you should consider holding out for one of these Damasko (http://www.damaskousa.com/Damasko-DC56-Automatic-Chronograph-Watch-With-Bracelet)'s The effort put into the bracelet alone is impressive. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0OOy-GMqB0
On the lower end of the price-range, I am looking seriously at this Mido Multifort Chronograph (http://www.jomashop.com/mido-watch-m005-614-11-061-00.html) That seems to get reviewed well and looks really great (to me) http://www.mcbroom.biz/PMWF/Mido_Multifort_review.htm

IMO; get the Mido.

They make really good watches with little fanfare in this country

[thirdgenbird]

Looking to spend 1000-1600. That mido looks nice.

[IJWS]

yeah, that corroboration by JR59 is making my decision easier.

[VTCaraco]

You guys are stretching my will-power to not add an unneeded watch...

I'd recommend trolling Watchuseek if you want to consider second-hand. Some really nice pieces over there.

[wallymann]

IMO; get the Mido.

They make really good watches with little fanfare in this country

big fan of the mido all-dial models.

[thirdgenbird]

big fan of the mido all-dial models.

I'm sort of leaning to the fortis. Is anyone a watchuseek member willing to facilitate?

[jr59]

Here's one I just finished!

[oldpotatoe]

Looking to spend 1000-1600. That mido looks nice.

Now $1600? Get a Rolex date-just or Diver watch....$1600 used is easy.

Or a Tudor, Rolex guts.

[oldpotatoe]

Dupe, sorry

[thirdgenbird]

Now $1600? Get a Rolex date-just or Diver watch....$1600 used is easy.

Or a Tudor, Rolex guts.

Don't like the way they look. Wouldn't be happy with it. I would love a milgauss but you can't find those for $1600

[oldpotatoe]

Don't like the way they look. Wouldn't be happy with it.

Commie. Republican. Vegan. SRAM lover. :):):)

[jr59]

Now $1600? Get a Rolex date-just or Diver watch....$1600 used is easy.

Or a Tudor, Rolex guts.

Sort of. ETA movements for the most part, cases made by Rolex, put together by Rolex. Some bezels the same, some not.

First cousins anyway. But not the same guts.

[thirdgenbird]

Commie. Republican. Vegan. SRAM lover. :):):)

Sram? That's low. A date-just or diver just doesn't look right on the wrist of a guy still in his 20s. If money were no object, I would get a Speedmaster pro or mark II for daily use and a Rolex milgauss for weekends and such.

For the record, I do drive a sportwagen, eat red meat and all of my road bikes are campy. The MTB nearly was.

[rugbysecondrow]

Now $1600? Get a Rolex date-just or Diver watch....$1600 used is easy.

Or a Tudor, Rolex guts.

Where can you find a diver for that price? I have kept my eyes open but that seems low.

[Louis]

and a Rolex milgauss for weekends and such.


You been spending your weekends here? ;)

http://www.dynaset.com/databank/files/HMAG_on_truck_scrap_yard_2.JPG

[buldogge]

^^^Milgauss is the only Rolex I really like (other than a '60's Explorer)....anti-magnetic qualities, or not.

-Mark in St. Louis

[Louis]

The other day I was visiting a vendor for some meetings and they had some of their products on the conference room table, nearly all of which had pretty beefy rare-earth magnets inside.

I was wondering what effects they might be having on my watch...

[thirdgenbird]

^^^Milgauss is the only Rolex I really like (other than a '60's Explorer)....anti-magnetic qualities, or not.

-Mark in St. Louis

This.

[oldpotatoe]

Sort of. ETA movements for the most part, cases made by Rolex, put together by Rolex. Some bezels the same, some not.

First cousins anyway. But not the same guts.

10-4, you are the man..thanks/

[oldpotatoe]

Where can you find a diver for that price? I have kept my eyes open but that seems low.

My face..looked around fleabay and a Rolex submariner is a LOT more than $1600.

I guess I'll keep my new at $645 GMT Master..bought in 1978..or sell it??

Nope, I'll keep it.

[SoCalSteve]

Or just save your $$$ and do it right. Always stylish, always a classic and always an icon...kind of like a Porsche Carrera and Serotta bikes ( full disclosure, that is my Look 595 on top of my Carrera, no a Serotta )....:banana:

[IJWS]

:hello::hello::hello::hello: Way to win the sub $1000 watch thread. :crap:

Just kidding. I'm actually a huge Porsche fan. Now, would I prefer a Speedmaster, and a firefly on top of a GT4? Of course, but I think this thread is in the Caad 10, Subaru BRZ territory.

[jlwdm]

Or just save your $$$ and do it right. Always stylish, always a classic and always an icon...:

Hmmm. The sub is a little small in this day and age and the cyclops should be outlawed. I made the cyclops mistake once and will never make it again.

Jeff

[Louis]

and the cyclops should be outlawed

Agreed. I've always thought it was silly and unnecessary. Certainly not an aesthetic plus.

[SoCalSteve]

Hmmm. The sub is a little small in this day and age and the cyclops should be outlawed. I made the cyclops mistake once and will never make it again.

Jeff

Fits my wrist perfectly. I love the size, shape, feel and weight. They really got it right!

The cyclops never bothered me. Actually, never even thought about it until you guys brought it up....guess that's why they don't paint all Rolex's green!...:beer:

[SoCalSteve]

:hello::hello::hello::hello: Way to win the sub $1000 watch thread. :crap:

Just kidding. I'm actually a huge Porsche fan. Now, would I prefer a Speedmaster, and a firefly on top of a GT4? Of course, but I think this thread is in the Caad 10, Subaru BRZ territory.

Do you mean the new Cayman GT4 that was just announced? If so, you will be out of luck as there are no provisions for roof racks on Caymans...:mad:...almost bought a Cayman, but couldn't haul my bikes around on it, so went for the Carrera.

[oldpotatoe]

And to see if I can do this from my new phone

taa daa

[IJWS]

Do you mean the new Cayman GT4 that was just announced? If so, you will be out of luck as there are no provisions for roof racks on Caymans...:mad:...almost bought a Cayman, but couldn't haul my bikes around on it, so went for the Carrera.


http://www.planet-9.com/attachments/987-cayman-boxster-chat/24666d1340652548-carrying-bike-without-roof-rack-cayman-seasucker-rack.jpg

[thirdgenbird]

I admit, the Tudor black bay is growing on me. The small knurling on the bezel, the matte black face, the lack of a date, and the large crown do it for me. It's crazy considering I usually hate the large bezel on dive watches.

[Waldo]

I will preface this with the statement that apostrophe misuse is a huge pet peeve.

What, they don't teach in that shmancy Cambridge masters program that possessive of "it" is "its?"

Snip:

... It's so good-looking, but it seems a little overpriced compared to it's competitors. Who out there has one, and who out there has an opinion about one?

Thanks!

Thank you for listening.

[IJWS]

Vlad, to my dismay, there are no grammar classes in architecture school. Judge away, but be aware of unspoken monster that autocorrect presents. The 556i is so good-looking though. It's a real problem.

[Louis]

To me this is just too scary - that big chainring is just patiently waiting, biding its time until it takes a bite from the roof / rear window of that car. So much is riding on those vacuum seals, especially the single one in back...

http://www.planet-9.com/attachments/987-cayman-boxster-chat/24666d1340652548-carrying-bike-without-roof-rack-cayman-seasucker-rack.jpg

[A1CKot]

I have a few different watches all under $1000.
http://www.christopherward.co.uk
http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y349/A1CKot/random%20stuff/13188B7F-A1A3-4B40-88DA-88844E3279F3-145-00000005BC932F22.jpg (http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/A1CKot/media/random%20stuff/13188B7F-A1A3-4B40-88DA-88844E3279F3-145-00000005BC932F22.jpg.html)
http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y349/A1CKot/random%20stuff/526B6083-D8A2-4BD6-A9CB-020DAC3DC5DF-1778-000006D67C074C2E_zps553671ed.jpg (http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/A1CKot/media/random%20stuff/526B6083-D8A2-4BD6-A9CB-020DAC3DC5DF-1778-000006D67C074C2E_zps553671ed.jpg.html)
http://www.lum-tec.com
http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y349/A1CKot/random%20stuff/IMG_1336_zps09621292.jpg (http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/A1CKot/media/random%20stuff/IMG_1336_zps09621292.jpg.html)
http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y349/A1CKot/random%20stuff/IMG_1341_zpsbd85daa8.jpg (http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/A1CKot/media/random%20stuff/IMG_1341_zpsbd85daa8.jpg.html)
http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y349/A1CKot/random%20stuff/IMG_0877_zpsc10a6ec0.jpg (http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/A1CKot/media/random%20stuff/IMG_0877_zpsc10a6ec0.jpg.html)
http://i1028.photobucket.com/albums/y349/A1CKot/random%20stuff/IMG_1043_zps388d4fc8.jpg (http://s1028.photobucket.com/user/A1CKot/media/random%20stuff/IMG_1043_zps388d4fc8.jpg.html)

[Louis]

I have a few different watches all under $1000.

The white CW is very nice. :cool:

[A1CKot]

The white CW is very nice. :cool:

I looks more tan or cream color in person. CW makes some very nice pieces and has excellent customer service.

[CPP]

I looks more tan or cream color in person. CW makes some very nice pieces and has excellent customer service.

Very nice looking watches and at with very reasonable prices!!

[thirdgenbird]

Any feedback on Glycine? They seem to have a decent history, some attractive options, and what appears to be some of the better finished movements under $1k

http://www.watch-corner.pl/_var/gfx/0adb854d3ebb9c009a344a96c33f13f6.jpg

[dumbod]

...as a counterpoint to the previous post. :)

http://images.mec.ca/fluid/customers/c822/5007-038/generated/5007-038_NOC02_view1_720x720.jpg

I can't see watches like this without thinking of the Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy that described Earth as "an insignificant blue-green planet whose ape-descended life forms are so amazingly primitive that they think that digital watches are a cool idea."

I have a Heuer (before it becam Tag Heuer) that I wore for years but there are some problems with it.

It is so large that I often scrape it on door frames
It's almost impossible to button my shirt cuff over it.
It needs to be completely serviced every 3-4 years at the cost of $400.
It's cool but isn't really dressy.


I have a Skagen Ti/Carbon watch that I wear with a suit. It's as thin as any watch on the market; I find the looks elegant and at $190 it's a whole lot cheaper than the other watches mentioned here.

http://www.skagen.com/us/en/products/holst-steel-mesh-multifunction-watch-pdpskw6172p.html?referer=productdetail&cm_vc=PDPZ1

[SoCalSteve]

To me this is just too scary - that big chainring is just patiently waiting, biding its time until it takes a bite from the roof / rear window of that car. So much is riding on those vacuum seals, especially the single one in back...

I don't always agree with you, but on this point I agree 110%! That was exactly my first thought when I saw this contraption...:mad:

OTOH, the Porsche OEM roof racks with the Yakima tray will probably withstand WWIII...it's super solid and stable and not going anywhere!!! What you want when you have a very expensive bike on the roof of your car traveling at 70MPH down the freeway.

[FlashUNC]

You guys need to stop. I'm now looking at Seiko SKXs and Monsters and vintage Spaceviews and figuring out whether I should sell some kidneys.

You people already enable my addiction in one expensive hobby. I don't need another.

[RFC]

When I had the Watch Jones (similar to the Bike Jones), more than 60 mechanical watches past through my hands. I'm now down to three mechanicals -- Omega Speedmaster Moon Watch, Seiko Orange Monster dive watch and this, the Hamilton Khaki / Air Race GMT.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/RCopple/IMG_0038_zps5pipzjjm.jpg (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/RCopple/media/IMG_0038_zps5pipzjjm.jpg.html)

[fuzzalow]

What you want when you have a very expensive bike on the roof of your car traveling at 70MPH down the freeway.

Yep, when you can get to 70mph on the freeway.

[adampaiva]

i didnt read through all the pages but im guessing OP has his watch by now. But I scrolled through for the photos, nice watches gentlemen.
I bought myself a Tag when I started my first job out of college. Gave that to my father and bought myself a Sinn 556i. Nearly went overboard and got one of the "non-beginner" Sinns. Anyways, I love it. It has gotten watch nerd comments more than a few times and I think it looks great formal or casual. I realized it was a black hole I was potentially slipping into so I bought a G-shock to wear when I travel and ride the bike and decided to delete the watch forums from my bookmarks for at least another couple years. I wear the Sinn pretty much every day. (there's a big scratch in the face)

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2868/10090207623_829843cbd9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/gnCXbX)20131004-P1030431 (https://flic.kr/p/gnCXbX) by adam.paiva (https://www.flickr.com/people/29381313@N00/), on Flickr

[MattTuck]

Any feedback on Glycine? They seem to have a decent history, some attractive options, and what appears to be some of the better finished movements under $1k

http://www.watch-corner.pl/_var/gfx/0adb854d3ebb9c009a344a96c33f13f6.jpg

I have never heard of them before, but some of their models look interesting.

[FlashUNC]

I hope you're all happy. I'm leaving the Seiko counter with their automatic diver the SKX173.

You people are like crack dealers for bikes and watches.

UPDATE: And now I'm home and playing with it like a 6 year old at Christmas. I still hate all of you.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8602/16451790970_885e056ef0_b.jpg

[Louis]

I hope you're all happy. I'm leaving the Seiko counter with their automatic diver the SKX173.


Nice :)

[SlackMan]

I hope you're all happy. I'm leaving the Seiko counter with their automatic diver the SKX173.

You people are like crack dealers for bikes and watches.

UPDATE: And now I'm home and playing with it like a 6 year old at Christmas. I still hate all of you.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8602/16451790970_885e056ef0_b.jpg

Is that a box-stock, plain-jane, Seiko?! What are you thinking?! You have to mod it, or you're not really addicted. See below and also Google 'Seiko watch mods.' Sorry. ;)

https://www.pinterest.com/atlascustom/seiko-mod-watches/

[Louis]

Is that a box-stock, plain-jane, Seiko?! What are you thinking?! You have to mod it, or you're not really addicted. See below and also Google 'Seiko watch mods.' Sorry. ;)

Is changing the band enough? ;)

When I have a chance I'll take and post a pic of mine. (not modified, but I did change the band)

[choke]

Is changing the band enough? ;)No, it's not. :)

This is my Yao 007, from back when Bill first sarted doing them.


http://i678.photobucket.com/albums/vv148/BlackHills1/yao/DSCN0574.jpg

[Louis]

No, it's not. :)

I suspected as much...

BTW, the green of the NATO strap doesn't match the second hand. :no:

[SoCalSteve]

Yep, when you can get to 70mph on the freeway.

Sunday mornings when I go to meet my riding buddies in Marina del Rey...:beer:

[Chris]

Is changing the band enough? ;)

When I have a chance I'll take and post a pic of mine. (not modified, but I did change the band)

Right. I have a 171 with a 007 bezel on a yobokies super oyster.

[FlashUNC]

Is that a box-stock, plain-jane, Seiko?! What are you thinking?! You have to mod it, or you're not really addicted. See below and also Google 'Seiko watch mods.' Sorry. ;)

https://www.pinterest.com/atlascustom/seiko-mod-watches/

I didn't have time to mod it on the commute home. I'll step up my game next time.

[SlackMan]

I didn't have time to mod it on the commute home. I'll step up my game next time.

To come clean, I don't have a modded watch either. But, if I could find a safe way to sell my Omega 'Great White' GMT Seamaster without fraud risk, I'd be all over some of those modded Seikos.

[Louis]

I didn't have time to mod it on the commute home. I'll step up my game next time.

Just so we all agree on the ground rules, buying an already modified watch doesn't count as much as having a watch you already own custom-moded for you. There's just more cred doing that way. Otherwise, you're just picking up someone else's already completed project.

[RFC]

Believe me, after owning many high end mechanical watches, I can tell you unequivocally that you made the right choice. BTW, it is very easy to adjust the Seiko dive watches to +- 1-2 seconds per day, which is better than the standard Rolex Submariner.

[Louis]

BTW, it is very easy to adjust the Seiko dive watches to +- 1-2 seconds per day, which is better than the standard Rolex Submariner.

Through trial-and-error or using a timing machine?

[MattTuck]

I hope you're all happy. I'm leaving the Seiko counter with their automatic diver the SKX173.

You people are like crack dealers for bikes and watches.

UPDATE: And now I'm home and playing with it like a 6 year old at Christmas. I still hate all of you.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8602/16451790970_885e056ef0_b.jpg

Are those Stan Smiths on the floor? :banana:

[FlashUNC]

Are those Stan Smiths on the floor? :banana:

Indeed! I also have a pair made from tennis ball material.

[RFC]

Through trial-and-error or using a timing machine?

Trial and error using minor timing adjustments. Works very well.

[thirdgenbird]

Well, I spent money.

I ended up ordering a custom from Wilk Watchworks. I optioned it up quite a bit. Some not posted on the site but it was still under 1k. Hopefully, I can post pictures in 3 months...

Edit:
For those that may have interest, here is how I ended up where I am. After a lot of searching, reading looking at watches and changing my mind, I landed on the criteria below. Some of it is for a reason, some of it is just because (you guys get that)

Movement:
Swiss (history)
Mechanical wind (because)
Common (cheaper repair and service)
No date (not sure why, it just seems right)
Larger (I want it to fill the case)
Minimal finishing (I want it to look nice, but fit the planned warm but industrial aesthetic of the watch)
Slower beat rate (less wear, calmer and warmer)

Dial:
Sub dial second hand (I like the look and it adds something to a simple face)
Simple number/scale markers (timeless and readable)
Preferably a dark gray to matte black (I want neutral and textured, not shiny)
Somewhat unique, not a common military/flight look

Case:
About 42mm (large enough to look good, not big enough to be trendy)
Large "square" shaped crown (clean/industrial)
Brushed finish (simple, understated, warmer, easy to repair)
Sapphire crystal (scratch resistance)
Display back (part of wanting a mechanical is seeing the machine)
Simple clean bezel (I like the look)

Strap/bracelet:
Stainless bracelet (durable, functional)
Brushed finish (same as case)
Screwed links (easier adjustmet, fits the look)
Straight end links (I dig the vintage look)

After all deciding all of this, I decided that the ETA/Unitas 6497/8 was the way to go. It meets all the criteria perfectly. A hammered finish would also suit the theme. 6497 was perfered for the hand layout

I then went on a hunt for the proper watch housing a 6497/8 but was let down by the huge case sizes, price or all too comon military dial. Enter Wilk...

I'm honestly not sure how I found him, but he had a dial layout I love, a hammered ETA 6497, a 41mm case to go with it, and the willingness to check all my other boxes. He doesn't have a picture of what I ordered but it basically will look like this...

The case, crown, crystal and bracelet will look very much like this. It will all have a nice brushed finish and it will feature a large display back.
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/a4/cd/d3/a4cdd3dfd4644fa61439ee0b77e7fa86.jpg

The dial will be of this design, but it will be a lefty. The crown will be at 9 and the sub dial at 3.
http://wilkwatchworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/gnomon1a.jpg

The face is hand made. It is actually a brushed and tarnished copper face, the features are engraved in with the numbers being filled with paint.

The watch will nearly be absent of any markings. His logo as seen on the face will be displayed on the face, crown, and edge of the case back. The watch will be absent of all other words and branding save the marking that come on the ETA movement.

Scott is super nice, responsive and the prices seemed resonable to me given his flexibility. If anyone is interested, check him out. Keep in mind, all pricing is CAD, not USD. those of us in the US will save some on exchange.
http://wilkwatchworks.com

I can't say I give him my full reccomendation as I don't yet have a watch yet, but the experince thus far has been great.

[IJWS]

re: thirdgenbird's design criteria, halfway through your list, I couldn't help but to be reminded of the homer (http://www.wired.com/2014/07/homer-simpson-car/). Sadly, a youtube link was nowhere to be found.

[thirdgenbird]

re: thirdgenbird's design criteria, halfway through your list, I couldn't help but to be reminded of the homer (http://www.wired.com/2014/07/homer-simpson-car/). Sadly, a youtube link was nowhere to be found.

No need. As somene that was born in the mid 80's, I get it :)

[MattTuck]

Well, I spent money.
...

For those that may have interest, here is how I ended up where I am. After a lot of searching, reading looking at watches me changing my mind, I landed on the criteria below. Some of it is for a reason, some of it is just because (you guys get that)



Thanks. That was an incredibly useful and well done post. I had never heard of him, but his watches look good, and for pretty short money to boot.

I'm now turned on to this company.

I wish I could get a full sweep second hand and a power reserve indicator where the sub-second hand usually goes.

[VTCaraco]

Well, I spent money.

:banana:Dig it!:banana:

Love that you bought EXACTLY what you were looking for...

You'll have to post some pictures once you get it.

[thirdgenbird]

Thanks. That was an incredibly useful and well done post. I had never heard of him, but his watches look good, and for pretty short money to boot.

I'm now turned on to this company.

I wish I could get a full sweep second hand and a power reserve indicator where the sub-second hand usually goes.

It may be worth an ask. His site does say that he will sometimes have unique mechanisms.

:banana:Dig it!:banana:

Love that you bought EXACTLY what you were looking for...

You'll have to post some pictures once you get it.

Thanks. I am very pleased too. The only thing that would have made it better would have been improved water resistance. It shouldn't be a big deal however. It obviously wasn't on my list of needs, just a nice to have. I wouldn't want a screw down crown on a hand winder anyway.

[Kirk007]

Look at Squale if you want a lesser known but very high quality watch with an interesting history. http://www.squale.ch/squale/

I have this one and really like it. Not to big, not to small, great for diving, does casual and formal equally well: http://www.squale.ch/squale/scheda.php?lingua=l2&codice=2&classe=professional

[Louis]

Look at Squale if you want a lesser known but very high quality watch with an interesting history. http://www.squale.ch/squale/

Interesting, but the font style and color used on the site are making it a nightmare to read the text (at least on this monitor).

Edit: I'm not quite used to it, so if looks weird to my eye, but the hidden-lug look is intriguing.

[1centaur]

The Squale has the same movement as the Sinn, and the offset crown is a feature I like on the U1 because I wear the face on the underside of my arm (less banging into things) and regular crowns can dig into the wrist when the hand flexes towards the arm.

Looks well done.

[mktng]

Might be a bit off topic. Sorta. Caught my attention.

http://wilkwatchworks.com/ - watch maker in Toronto ON Canada - look at logo

http://www.wovenprecision.com/ - wheel builders in Ottawa ON Canada - look at logo.

[MattTuck]

Might be a bit off topic. Sorta. Caught my attention.

http://wilkwatchworks.com/ - watch maker in Toronto ON Canada - look at logo

http://www.wovenprecision.com/ - wheel builders in Ottawa ON Canada - look at logo.

haha.

Maybe a logo design firm in Ottawa has some splain'n to do.

http://wilkwatchworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/logo.pnghttp://www.wovenprecision.com/wp-content/themes/woven/images/wovenLogo.png

[thirdgenbird]

It is a good logo. It looks like Wilk predates Woven by a few years, but who knows when the logos went into use.

[rounder]

The watch pictures are beautiful. But, what is it about the watches that makes folks shell out that much money for a mechanical watch when their own phones and computers (that are available at any time) give more accurate time. Just wondering. Thanks.

[thirdgenbird]

People probably said similar things about the bicycle once they saw a motorcycle but this place exists.

for me, it is the history, craftsmanship and beauty.

[Steve in SLO]

The watch pictures are beautiful. But, what is it about the watches that makes folks shell out that much money for a mechanical watch when their own phones and computers (that are available at any time) give more accurate time. Just wondering. Thanks.

No matter how I write this, it will seem smarmy even though I don't mean it to:
If you look at those pictures and don't understand, nothing anyone will tell you and no amount of explaining will make you understand.

[ceolwulf]

They are firstly artifacts and only secondarily timekeepers.

[rounder]

No matter how I write this, it will seem smarmy even though I don't mean it to:
If you look at those pictures and don't understand, nothing anyone will tell you and no amount of explaining will make you understand.

So, it is sort of like how come I have so many bicycles. I can understand that part.

[IJWS]

No matter how I write this, it will seem smarmy even though I don't mean it to:
If you look at those pictures and don't understand, nothing anyone will tell you and no amount of explaining will make you understand.

and...if you don't understand, great news! This is a bike forum! Pots...kettles....black...and so on

[malcolm]

The watch pictures are beautiful. But, what is it about the watches that makes folks shell out that much money for a mechanical watch when their own phones and computers (that are available at any time) give more accurate time. Just wondering. Thanks.

If it's only the time you are interested in by all means use your phone or buy a cheap quartz watch.

A mechanical watch is a tiny machine and if it's an automatic almost a perpetual motion machine that you wear on your wrist that tells you the time with amazing accuracy, if you really think about it, without batteries or any input from you except occasionally moving. It's pretty amazing that all that can fit in a tiny case worn on your wrist and also be made to be beautiful.

People that tend to appreciate simplicity and elegant engineering tend to like watches, bikes and sometimes firearms.

On last selling point is for men it's about the only jewelry they wear it will last a lifetime and can be passed on for a couple more lifetimes so even if you spend several k it can be twisted into looking like a good investment or at least that's my story and I'm sticking with it.

[SlackMan]

^^^What Malcolm said.

Although one should realize that the "carrying costs" (i.e., maintenance) of that investment can be pretty high for mid and high end watches that cost several $K. Paying >$600 every five years or so is something to plan on for regular servicing.

[MattTuck]

^^^What Malcolm said.

Although one should realize that the "carrying costs" (i.e., maintenance) of that investment can be pretty high for mid and high end watches that cost several $K. Paying >$600 every five years or so is something to plan on for regular servicing.

There goes the finance prof. bringing reality into this with terms like 'carrying cost' ;)

[SlackMan]

There goes the finance prof. bringing reality into this with terms like 'carrying cost' ;)

And probably ruining the party in the process for some...;)

[Likes2ridefar]

i used to have a panerai that cost around $5000 at the time I bought it. A few weeks in on a long haul flight I awoke to scratches all over the crystal. It drove me nuts so when i got home i called up panerai to see about replacing the crystal.

it was something like $1000 after all was said and done. they said a full spa treatment was necessary on top of the $300+ crystal.

i ended up selling it for a loss and moving on to a different brand.

I flip watches faster than bikes...

[thirdgenbird]

Alright, my wait for the Wilk has me thinking about replacing my Nighthawk with a mechanical for knock around use.

Is this possible?
-41-44mm
-brushed stainless case
-clean bezel (not a fan of rotating bezels, internal ok)
-sapphire crystal perfered
-simple dial
-at least 10atm resistant
-not a fan of homage watches, inspired by is fine, but not a blatent rip off
-sub $300 (used is fine)

[IJWS]

I really like the Maratac watches that Countycomm (http://www.countycomm.com/midpilotred.html) is selling. I've seen a few used ones on Watchrecon lately. They look pretty robust.

[thirdgenbird]

I really like the Maratac watches that Countycomm (http://www.countycomm.com/midpilotred.html) is selling. I've seen a few used ones on Watchrecon lately. They look pretty robust.

I missed their mid size option. I should have also mentioned:
-pilot watches are fine, but I don't want the all too comon triangle and dots. A 12 is ok and a 0 is worth bonus points.
-$300 would include a stainless bracelet. If it doesn't come on one, I would need to leave about $70 to get one.

[Likes2ridefar]

I missed their mid size option. I should have also mentioned:
-pilot watches are fine, but I don't want the all too comon triangle and dots. A 12 is ok and a 0 is worth bonus points.
-$300 would include a stainless bracelet. If it doesn't come on one, I would need to leave about $70 to get one.

Maybe this? http://www.ocean7watchco.com/store/ocean7-meteor-titanium.html

[Likes2ridefar]

I think the $300 will be tough if you don't like going the seiko diver route, or get lucky and find something used on a forum that you like.

Most quality watches that are mechanical and sapphire that aren't something like the ocean7, benarus, etc will cost well over $300.

I guess I'm a snob, or I don't know really how to put it, but I think unless you are exclusively going on looks it's silly to buy anything other than a quality watch like a Rolex :)

I think Ill blame the Rolex forum for that one. For better or worse I'm convinced watches that aren't in house made are a waste of money. Like buying a specialized (eta Swiss stuff) compared to a serotta(Rolex,jlc, and the like)

[thirdgenbird]

Sapphire is perfered, but I totaly understand that I may not get it. I've found several mineral crystal options for around $200 so I know I'm not far off. I could get over the missing sapphire on the Smith Everest ($300 used) if it weren't for the Mercedes hands...

My biggest disappointment: if I was ok with a diver, I would have countless options. There of decent entry level divers and I don't get it. Most of them won't ever be used for diving. Most of them won't actually handle diving...

I might be best off keeping the nighthawk. It's not a bad looking watch.

[Likes2ridefar]

Sapphire is perfered, but I totaly understand that I may not get it. I've found several mineral crystal options for around $200 so I know I'm not far off. I could get over the missing sapphire on the Smith Everest ($300 used) if it weren't for the Mercedes hands...

My biggest disappointment: if I was ok with a diver, I would have countless options. There of decent entry level divers and I don't get it. Most of them won't ever be used for diving. Most of them won't actually handle diving...

I might be best off keeping the nighthawk. It's not a bad looking watch.

you could always try the replica route. they will have sapphire and mechanical in the 300 dollar range for the higher end versions. a few i've had were really nice but some others were headaches and had minor flaws that bothered me. enough to where i stopped messing around with them.

[thirdgenbird]

I'm trying to avoid replicas. Like I said, I'm ok with "inspired by" but total ripoff just doesn't feel right.

It's only 5atm, but this seems fairly close for only about $150.
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/81QZTCHvfwL._UY606_.jpg

realistically, a true 5atm should be fine. I don't plan to swim with it or anything. It may actually fare better than a Chinese built 10atm. I also would rather have a Miyota movement over an unknown one.

[IJWS]

I think the $300 will be tough if you don't like going the seiko diver route, or get lucky and find something used on a forum that you like.

Most quality watches that are mechanical and sapphire that aren't something like the ocean7, benarus, etc will cost well over $300.

I guess I'm a snob, or I don't know really how to put it, but I think unless you are exclusively going on looks it's silly to buy anything other than a quality watch like a Rolex :)

I think Ill blame the Rolex forum for that one. For better or worse I'm convinced watches that aren't in house made are a waste of money. Like buying a specialized (eta Swiss stuff) compared to a serotta(Rolex,jlc, and the like)

Agreed. I mean, I know you said you were looking for a knock-around watch, but, you really should just plunk down $4-6k on a Rolex--the ONLY watch in the world.

[MattTuck]

I think the $300 will be tough if you don't like going the seiko diver route, or get lucky and find something used on a forum that you like.

Most quality watches that are mechanical and sapphire that aren't something like the ocean7, benarus, etc will cost well over $300.

I guess I'm a snob, or I don't know really how to put it, but I think unless you are exclusively going on looks it's silly to buy anything other than a quality watch like a Rolex :)

I think Ill blame the Rolex forum for that one. For better or worse I'm convinced watches that aren't in house made are a waste of money. Like buying a specialized (eta Swiss stuff) compared to a serotta(Rolex,jlc, and the like)

I understand the sentiment, but I think there is a big difference between a company that throws an unmodified ETA movement into a watch and one that sources a high level movement and makes significant modifications. The fact that Rolex is vertically integrated doesn't mean they make a better watch... it just means they have control of process and can choose to make the watch they want.

I've heard 3 people in the last week (casual watch folks that don't own a Rolex) say they'd only get a Rolex if they were buying a high end watch because everything is done in house. When you sell a million watches a year, it is hardly an apt comparison to describe Rolex as a bespoke frame builder where every frame is unique.

I'm convinced that the two memes I hear about Rolex (one that it is made in house and the second that people who own multiple watches always end up wearing their Rolex on a daily basis and abandoning their other watches) are carefully cultivated and repeated because they are both validation and aspirational.

Please don't take that to mean I don't like Rolex watches. There are a few that I think are great looking and I'd be happy to wear. However, when a company spends as much on marketing as Rolex does, and I have to believe they are quite sophisticated, I am deeply skeptical when I hear casual observers parroting these ideas.

That post sounded way more adversarial than I intended. Not meant to be an ad hominim attack or to criticize your beliefs. :help:

[choke]

Alright, my wait for the Wilk has me thinking about replacing my Nighthawk with a mechanical for knock around use.

Is this possible?
-41-44mm
-brushed stainless case
-clean bezel (not a fan of rotating bezels, internal ok)
-sapphire crystal perfered
-simple dial
-at least 10atm resistant
-not a fan of homage watches, inspired by is fine, but not a blatent rip off
-sub $300 (used is fine)Laco make some models with Miyota movements that hit everything other than the water resistance if you stretch the budget just a bit.

[Likes2ridefar]

Agreed. I mean, I know you said you were looking for a knock-around watch, but, you really should just plunk down $4-6k on a Rolex--the ONLY watch in the world.

There are others but rolex has the name and is well known even among people who are clueless about other watches. A number of others are arguably even nicer but generally cost way more.

Like I said, if only concerned about appearance then buy whatever, but otherwise you are wasting your money. Only rolex and very rare other examples actually gain value. Consider a rolex like a very slow return savings account. If you buy one smartly (not new retail) you will definitely not lose money and if you keep it for a long time, probably even the new retail models, you will have a watch that has increased in value and is nearly indestructible.

old potatoe here on the forum is one of the great examples who bought his rolex quite awhile ago and and now has a watch that is timeless and worth thousands more than he paid.

[dogdriver]

Late to this thread (and haven't read the previous posts very carefully), but were I to drop $1K on a watch (as jewelry-- for time-keeping, reliability, and durability, you're never going to beat a Timex Ironman or the like), I'd probably go for a used, simple Rolex. Thinking Air-King, Datejust, or Explorer. Maybe one of the simpler Omegas, perhaps a Speedmaster (moon watch). Keep it classic, not too fancy-looking. Bottom line-- if you buy most brands new, you're going to take a huge bath value-wise if you ever sell it. Whether you like Rolex (the company) or not, if you buy one of their's (even new) and keep it for a few years, it will be worth at least what you paid for it, given their steady price increases. The steel, plain Rolex is probably the most copied watch design ever, and you can't go wrong with one...

[Likes2ridefar]

I understand the sentiment, but I think there is a big difference between a company that throws an unmodified ETA movement into a watch and one that sources a high level movement and makes significant modifications. The fact that Rolex is vertically integrated doesn't mean they make a better watch... it just means they have control of process and can choose to make the watch they want.

I've heard 3 people in the last week (casual watch folks that don't own a Rolex) say they'd only get a Rolex if they were buying a high end watch because everything is done in house. When you sell a million watches a year, it is hardly an apt comparison to describe Rolex as a bespoke frame builder where every frame is unique.

I'm convinced that the two memes I hear about Rolex (one that it is made in house and the second that people who own multiple watches always end up wearing their Rolex on a daily basis and abandoning their other watches) are carefully cultivated and repeated because they are both validation and aspirational.

Please don't take that to mean I don't like Rolex watches. There are a few that I think are great looking and I'd be happy to wear. However, when a company spends as much on marketing as Rolex does, and I have to believe they are quite sophisticated, I am deeply skeptical when I hear casual observers parroting these ideas.

That post sounded way more adversarial than I intended. Not meant to be an ad hominim attack or to criticize your beliefs. :help:

No worries I feel like I need to explore and figure out what it is that makes me feel that way. this helps. I remember when I first learned about the movements and in house makers after plopping down nearly $6000 on my first Panerai from of all places that watch guy on ask men. I then did more research. I was disgusted and felt like I was cheated. It had a swiss ETA modified movement in it that looked like it probably cost a few hundred dollars. The company got nailed once when owners opened up a limited edition NY model and found a beat looking ETA movement that was not even finished.

But how much does a typical rolex movement cost? I've no idea. They certainly aren't works of art like some others like Patek or lange and sohne.

I still think it's fair to consider the comparison production if you consider how many casios or seikos or citizens are sold each year compared to a rolex?

I'm curious to learn about the high end movements that are highly modified. I know of some that are made to look pretty but don't know of any major changes to make them unique and justifiable to charge thousands more.

Regardless, I'm trying to not buy watches these days as I feel like I tried all the ones I liked and kept the few I enjoy.

Oddly a gshock is my favorite watch and this particular model costs less than $100. My AP diver XS strap I was required to purchase for the watch to fit cost a few hundred dollars more...and it's just black rubber straps. The gshock vibrates and has sweet LED auto lighting. It's also more comfortable than the heavy automatic watches.

[thirdgenbird]

Laco make some models with Miyota movements that hit everything other than the water resistance if you stretch the budget just a bit.

Yep, top of my list right now. Not my favorite dial, but hits the other marks.


My grail watch is a Milguass and I love the idea of an in house movement, but a stock ETA unit has its place. Sure a vintage rolex may hold it's value, but servicing one can often cost several times that of buying an entry level watch with a reliable ETA unit.

[Louis]

Oddly a gshock is my favorite watch and this particular model costs less than $100.

I've pretty much decided that my next time-keeping purchase is going to be either an "atomic" G-shock or an atomic wall clock. (going for accuracy to have a convenient reference) The latter are only about $25 if you're willing to settle for the plastic ones. The only reason I haven't gotten one yet (the wall clock version) is that they're sort of big and not terribly good looking, and I don't have a good place to put it.

[Likes2ridefar]

Yep, top of my list right now. Not my favorite dial, but hits the other marks.


My grail watch is a Milguass and I love the idea of an in house movement, but a stock ETA unit has its place. Sure a vintage rolex may hold it's value, but servicing one can often cost several times that of buying an entry level watch with a reliable ETA unit.

I owned a gv milgauss for awhile. I really enjoyed it. The green crystal was beautiful and I love the orange Lightning bolt second hand. The older vintage models are neat too.

I regret not keeping it but it was in high demand and I made a song on it!

[Likes2ridefar]

I've pretty much decided that my next time-keeping purchase is going to be either an "atomic" G-shock or an atomic wall clock. (going for accuracy and to have a convenient reference) The latter are only about $25 if you're willing to settle for the plastic ones. The only reason I haven't gotten one yet (the wall clock version) is that they're sort of big and not terribly good looking, and I don't have a good place to put it.

If you like the look and can pull off the size the master of g rangeman is quite the watch! I trid it but it was too big for my 6.5" wrist. It has every bell and whistle imaginable.

[thirdgenbird]

I owned a gv milgauss for awhile. I really enjoyed it. The green crystal was beautiful and I love the orange Lightning bolt second hand. The older vintage models are neat too.

I regret not keeping it but it was in high demand and I made a song on it!

Prior to seeing the milgauss, rolex watches didn't really do anything for me. It's amazing what a green crystal will do. The standard milgauss is nice, but the version with the green crystal makes me drool. Crazy a small change like that makes such a big difference.

[buldogge]

Any experience with any of these "cheap" watches:

http://dajiwatch.com/productshow765.html

https://www.bernhardtwatch.com/index.php?id=62

http://www.armidawatches.com/a6.php

Wouldn't mind finding an explorer "homage of some kind", and putting it on a leather band (maybe bund).

Like the look of the Tudor Heritage ranger...but no the specs/price.

-Mark in St. Louis

[Likes2ridefar]

I've had this project kicking around for awhile now. The movement is shot and it needs some love, about $400 worth of love.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v83/Spookykinkajou/for%20sale/IMG_20150115_095651_zpssfscd2lw.jpg

[buldogge]

^^^Are you looking to get motivated or looking to move it???

-Mark

[ceolwulf]

Alright, my wait for the Wilk has me thinking about replacing my Nighthawk with a mechanical for knock around use.



Is this possible?

-41-44mm

-brushed stainless case

-clean bezel (not a fan of rotating bezels, internal ok)

-sapphire crystal perfered

-simple dial

-at least 10atm resistant

-not a fan of homage watches, inspired by is fine, but not a blatent rip off

-sub $300 (used is fine)


Seiko 5? Way under $300. Some pretty nice ones. They might run a bit smaller diameter than you want.

[thirdgenbird]

Seiko 5? Way under $300. Some pretty nice ones. They might run a bit smaller diameter than you want.

Seems like they are all too small or have a diver bezel. It would be a great platform for what I want however.

It's probably this level of pickiness and my distaste for most divers that resulted in me ordering custom.

[jlwdm]

Late to this thread (and haven't read the previous posts very carefully), but were I to drop $1K on a watch (as jewelry-- for time-keeping, reliability, and durability, you're never going to beat a Timex Ironman or the like), I'd probably go for a used, simple Rolex. Thinking Air-King, Datejust, or Explorer. Maybe one of the simpler Omegas, perhaps a Speedmaster (moon watch). Keep it classic, not too fancy-looking. Bottom line-- if you buy most brands new, you're going to take a huge bath value-wise if you ever sell it. Whether you like Rolex (the company) or not, if you buy one of their's (even new) and keep it for a few years, it will be worth at least what you paid for it, given their steady price increases. The steel, plain Rolex is probably the most copied watch design ever, and you can't go wrong with one...

I have purchased a number of watches, but am pretty good about not having more than 6 at a time. The number one factor for me is that I like the look and feel of the watch.

I don't care if I can buy a Rolex and not lose money on it as I have never seen a Rolex that speaks to me. I buy clothes, cars, bikes, audio/video equipment and so forth that I enjoy not that I can break even on or not lose much money on.

Jeff

[Cat3roadracer]

I've had this project kicking around for awhile now. The movement is shot and it needs some love, about $400 worth of love.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v83/Spookykinkajou/for%20sale/IMG_20150115_095651_zpssfscd2lw.jpg

If you are interested in moving this Explorer, please send me a PM.

[Likes2ridefar]

I'm going to get it fixed but it requires time and a long walk in the city to a tiny dealer in Korea town to get it fixed for cheap.

It's pretty beat up although the photos don't show, the bracelet has major scrathes on it. A few can be seen top left from the dial.

[Rueda Tropical]

I've had this project kicking around for awhile now. The movement is shot and it needs some love, about $400 worth of love.


Was a 24 hour bezel ever made for the original 39mm Rolex Explorer ?

[Likes2ridefar]

Was a 24 hour bezel ever made for the original 39mm Rolex Explorer ?

Don't think so. That is the explorer II and its 40mm for most of its years although the newest is 42mm.

The explorer I posted is 36mm.

[hokoman]

I'm going to get it fixed but it requires time and a long walk in the city to a tiny dealer in Korea town to get it fixed for cheap.

It's pretty beat up although the photos don't show, the bracelet has major scrathes on it. A few can be seen top left from the dial.

Bergeon scratch pen... worked wonders for some of my daily watches... perfect for brushed finishes and cape cod polishing cloth for polished surfaces.

[1happygirl]

First, congrats on the Master's. That's quite an accomplishment. Do bask in your success and new found free time (haha get it - free time/ oh never mind) Anyway..

And AS USUAL, I learned something from the PBT (Paceline Brain Trust ) about watches (that I never really thought about). I also learned that the PBTers are a group of watch aficionados (in addition to bicycles, cameras, knives, etc).
Most peeps in my bracket (age) don't wear watches much any more like my parents did.

Excuse me if this was stated (tongue in cheek style tee hee) but if you want to not embarrass yourself in front of clients as you said etc, According to The book the Millionaire Next door you won't spend more than $100-200 on a watch lol

[Cat3roadracer]

Don't think so. That is the explorer II and its 40mm for most of its years although the newest is 42mm.

The explorer I posted is 36mm.

This is correct, and the current Explorer is 39mm.

[thirdgenbird]

I have purchased a number of watches, but am pretty good about not having more than 6 at a time. The number one factor for me is that I like the look and feel of the watch.

I don't care if I can buy a Rolex and not lose money on it as I have never seen a Rolex that speaks to me. I buy clothes, cars, bikes, audio/video equipment and so forth that I enjoy not that I can break even on or not lose much money on.

Jeff

This.

With the exception of the milgauss, I wouldn't wear a Rolex if given to me. They do nothing for me.

[Likes2ridefar]

This.

With the exception of the milgauss, I wouldn't wear a Rolex if given to me. They do nothing for me.

Which would you wear if given to you from other brands?

[thirdgenbird]

Which would you wear if given to you from other brands?

Look at my list of qualifications on my huge post a few pages back. It qualifies what I want in a watch. Brand is nearly irrelevant.

Several examples:
The wilk I ordered
Several Sinn models
The Tudor ranger pictured in that post
The version of the fortis b42 with a clean bezel
An omega Speedmaster mkII reissue
A Weiss field watch
A Christopher Ward c8 regulator
Rolex milgauss
The new tag heuer ch80

Not all of them are perfect, a good value, or in my budget, but I would wear all of them at the right price.

Edit:
A Rolex daytona would be on the list if it had a larger crystal and an internal tachymeter vs the large external bezel and smaller crystal.

[RFC]

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/RCopple/IMG_0053_zpsis0qs6uy.jpg (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/RCopple/media/IMG_0053_zpsis0qs6uy.jpg.html)


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/RCopple/IMG_0057_zpsgtpz9kal.jpg (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/RCopple/media/IMG_0057_zpsgtpz9kal.jpg.html)
$30, Beijing.

Do you think it will hold its value?

Actually, best fake I've seen.

[RFC]

What a great way to waste a Sunday afternoon!

I've owned many of the high end watches discussed here. If I could only have one watch it would be this one. +-2 seconds/year, solar, Ti.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/RCopple/IMG_0061_zpswhwsvrab.jpg (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/RCopple/media/IMG_0061_zpswhwsvrab.jpg.html)

My favorite Seiko. Bulletproof!

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/RCopple/IMG_0065_zpsj8nshj9e.jpg (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/RCopple/media/IMG_0065_zpsj8nshj9e.jpg.html)

And, because of its history, IMHO, the only high end mechanical worth owning.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/RCopple/IMG_0067_zpsl38iunbe.jpg (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/RCopple/media/IMG_0067_zpsl38iunbe.jpg.html)

[jlwdm]

...
And, because of its history, IMHO, the only high end mechanical worth owning.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/RCopple/IMG_0067_zpsl38iunbe.jpg (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/RCopple/media/IMG_0067_zpsl38iunbe.jpg.html)

And this shows why buying a watch is so personal. Everyone needs to make their own decision.

The Omega Speedmaster is very, very popular, but does not do anything for me. I generally like a plainer face and do not care about the history. I do have a Planet Ocean (since the month it was issued in 2005), but it is a fun watch - orange bezel with the orange leather strap. Not a watch to wear on a regular basis.

Jeff

[Likes2ridefar]

And this shows why buying a watch is so personal. Everyone needs to make their own decision.

The Omega Speedmaster is very, very popular, but does not do anything for me. I generally like a plainer face and do not care about the history. I do have a Planet Ocean (since the month it was issued in 2005), but it is a fun watch - orange bezel with the orange leather strap. Not a watch to wear on a regular basis.

Jeff

It's the one iconic watch ive never had interest in either. Im not a fan of chronographs, for me a wasted complication, and manual winds can be tiresome if a daily wear plus it has no date function and some say it is not so waterproof.

[RFC]

It's the one iconic watch ive never had interest in either. Im not a fan of chronographs, for me a wasted complication, and manual winds can be tiresome if a daily wear plus it has no date function and some say it is not so waterproof.


I think you missed the point. The Speedmaster is an instrument, not a watch.;)

[Likes2ridefar]

I think you missed the point. The Speedmaster is an instrument, not a watch.;)

You lost me:confused:

[jlwdm]

Actually, I am liking the Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon.

http://i1134.photobucket.com/albums/m617/6ridge9/OmegaSpeedmasterDarkSideoftheMoon-4.jpg (http://s1134.photobucket.com/user/6ridge9/media/OmegaSpeedmasterDarkSideoftheMoon-4.jpg.html)

Jeff

[RFC]

Very cool! I also had one of the 57's and am sorry I sold it

[dancinkozmo]

I think you missed the point. The Speedmaster is an instrument, not a watch.;)

....an instrument for extracting cash from your wallet :banana:

[RFC]

....an instrument for extracting cash from your wallet :banana:

LOL! You are correct, Sir!

[Likes2ridefar]

....an instrument for extracting cash from your wallet :banana:

Yes they are certainly excellent for that purpose. I've been wearing an lg smart watch recently but this thread pulled me back to my mechanicals starting today...wore the ap diver after a long break from it. It's heavy and somewhat uncomfortable but I love how it looks!

Ps the smart watch isn't so smart. Looks decent but is pretty useless in function, I think, unless you need to know the millisecond an email is sent. The battery barely makes it through a full day.

[AngryScientist]

i own or have owned a number of mechanical dive watches. many, many dive watches in fact.

for my first father's day, i treated myself to a ND Submariner. it has been on my wrist every day since, nearly 4 years now. it's an auto, and though i do not own a watch winder, the movement has never stopped in 4 years now. my job takes me to some pretty rough places, and the sub goes through it all, and always makes me happy to look at. due to the sentimental value, i'll never get rid of it by choice. a great watch that i've always loved. very individual decision though, watches. there are no right or wrong answers here, the watch you can afford and puts a smile on your face is all that matters.

cheers!

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L08xuko3cYw/VBY3UYyAuuI/AAAAAAAAByA/q-yc_QUmvnU/s900/P1080338.JPG

[Likes2ridefar]

Love the no date sub, one of the few I've not tried that I still would like to some day. I'd especially like a vintage model that's oozing patina.

Enjoy it but it sounds like you already do!

[AngryScientist]

maybe someday, some distant day...

http://papayawatch.com/productimages/DSC_0286.JPG

[crownjewelwl]

Just curious...do u own any on the list?

And what is it about the milgauss? It is an anti magnetic oyster...


Look at my list of qualifications on my huge post a few pages back. It qualifies what I want in a watch. Brand is nearly irrelevant.

Several examples:
The wilk I ordered
Several Sinn models
The Tudor ranger pictured in that post
The version of the fortis b42 with a clean bezel
An omega Speedmaster mkII reissue
A Weiss field watch
A Christopher Ward c8 regulator
Rolex milgauss
The new tag heuer ch80

Not all of them are perfect, a good value, or in my budget, but I would wear all of them at the right price.

Edit:
A Rolex daytona would be on the list if it had a larger crystal and an internal tachymeter vs the large external bezel and smaller crystal.

[buldogge]

What do you guys think of this simple modified Seiko?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/291396263271

-Mark

[thirdgenbird]

Just curious...do u own any on the list?

And what is it about the milgauss? It is an anti magnetic oyster...

No, I dont. I've paid for the Wilk but it is not built yet. Any reason you ask?

The other oyster watches that are nice, but they all have things I don't like.

Here is how I can explain milgauss:
I lile the straght hands
I like the simple markers
I like the lack of a date
I like the orange touches
I love the green glass
I insist on a clean bezel

None of the other oysters have all of those features. The Milguass is the perfect combo of all the oyster parts. I couldn't care less about the anti magnetic bit. After the Milguass, my next choice for rolex is the tudor ranger.

[Louis]

What do you guys think of this simple modified Seiko?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/291396263271

-Mark

Mark, this doesn't help you a whole lot, but I think he's also offering them on Etsy (where he mentions that they are made to order).


https://www.etsy.com/listing/200646302/custom-bespoke-seiko-snk809-automatic?ref=sr_gallery_1&ga_search_query=SNK809&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery

[oldpotatoe]

maybe someday, some distant day...

http://papayawatch.com/productimages/DSC_0286.JPG

Always get a kick out that. If when diving, it fell off(unlikely but still) and went down 500m..it would still run for a while..but not be crushed BUT no way to go get it. Call Woods Hole Labs I guess. Beautiful..

Saw a guy with a gold Rolex Cosmograph the other day..yowser.

[oldpotatoe]

No, I dont. I've paid for the Wilk but it is not built yet. Any reason you ask?

The other oyster watches that are nice, but they all have things I don't like.

Here is how I can explain milgauss:
I lile the straght hands
I like the simple markers
I like the lack of a date
I like the orange touches
I love the green glass
I insist on a clean bezel

None of the other oysters have all of those features. The Milguass is the perfect combo of all the oyster parts. I couldn't care less about the anti magnetic bit. After the Milguass, my next choice for rolex is the tudor ranger.

BUT I like the milgauss also

[Nags&Ducs]

I don't know if anyone else recommended this watch previously, but I've got one of these coming in the next few days: A Glycine Airman Base 22 GMT ordered from a shop in Italy called Klepsoo. It's a little over your max limit at $1080 but I think it's worth it. It's normally closer to $1600~$1800 at most shops IIRC. I need a GMT watch for work. ;) ok, "need" isn't really true, but I get tired of constantly adjusting my watch to the current time zone.

Happy shopping for watches! Next to bikes, it's my other disorder.

[IJWS]

What do you guys think of this simple modified Seiko?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/291396263271

-Mark

Looks like an almost perfect 556A (https://www.sinn.de/en/Modell/556_A.htm)

[oldpotatoe]

What do you guys think of this simple modified Seiko?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/291396263271

-Mark

Numbers too big, IMHO.

[thirdgenbird]

Numbers too big, IMHO.

Agreed. The face, hands and numbers are slightly out of proportion. I nearly bought a glycine but it had the same problem. It was a different model tan what Nags bought.

[buldogge]

Pretty sure that's the point.

I already own a 756D, I just want something "cheaper" to wear (besides the G-Shock I wear on the bike).

I want a little more "Explorer" look though...leaning towards an Armida A6 on strap, but may email Yobokies about an Explorer lookin' Seiko...dunno.

-Mark

Looks like an almost perfect 556A (https://www.sinn.de/en/Modell/556_A.htm)

[buldogge]

My Sinn's feelings are hurt now...

-Mark

Numbers too big, IMHO.

Agreed. The face, hands and numbers are slightly out of proportion. I nearly bought a glycine but it had the same problem. It was a different model tan what Nags bought.

[thirdgenbird]

My Sinn's feelings are hurt now...

-Mark

The Sinn is 3mm larger and has a thinner bezel. It works better.

If the seiko were 40-43mm, I might be a buyer.

[FlashUNC]

My Sinn's feelings are hurt now...

-Mark

FWIW, all the research I did into my new SKX173 indicates the 7s26 movement is a pretty outstanding one for the money.

Seems like a cool item to have. Certainly unique.

[IJWS]

The Sinn is 3mm larger and has a thinner bezel. It works better.

If the seiko were 40-43mm, I might be a buyer.

2.5 mm larger!...and works better.

[buldogge]

Don't want another Sinn...

If I was gonna spend a little more money (and I might just wait and do that), I would get a Damasko DA36 or 38...FWIW.

-Mark

[Likes2ridefar]

Don't want another Sinn...

If I was gonna spend a little more money (and I might just wait and do that), I would get a Damasko DA36 or 38...FWIW.

-Mark

nice and clean face, i like it. it looks like it has nice AR so the crystal just disappears.

[RFC]

BTW, in this thread, has anyone mentioned timezone.com? It dwarfs this forum in terms of traffic, subforums, the general level of OCD. You can spend weeks there.

http://www.timezone.com/

Another good one is the dive watch forum:

http://forums.watchuseek.com/f74/

[Likes2ridefar]

BTW, in this thread, has anyone mentioned timezone.com? It dwarfs this forum in terms of traffic, subforums, the general level of OCD. You can spend weeks there.

http://www.timezone.com/

Another good one is the dive watch forum:

http://forums.watchuseek.com/f74/

i bought a number of watches off the two sales forums on TZ. that and the rolex forum are my two favorite watch sites.

[Likes2ridefar]

i've never seen damasko before, just what i need...at least they arent that expensive with the euro conversion right now. i like the DA44 black face with black leather/red trim.

[IJWS]

Don't want another Sinn...

If I was gonna spend a little more money (and I might just wait and do that), I would get a Damasko DA36 or 38...FWIW.

-Mark

I really like the level of precision that Damasko put into their watches as well as their ice-hardened steel. The new metal bracelets are really impressive.

[MadeinGermany]

Made in Frankfurt - 'nuf said :hello:

[joshbd]

This forum is evil enough when it tempts me into buying n+1 bikes I don't really "need." Now, thanks this thread, I've lost 20 minutes of my life and "Oris BC3" is added to my Ebay watch list. I hope you people are proud of yourselves.

[thirdgenbird]

This forum is evil enough when it tempts me into buying n+1 bikes I don't really "need." Now, thanks this thread, I've lost 20 minutes of my life and "Oris BC3" is added to my Ebay watch list. I hope you people are proud of yourselves.

Very. It checks my boxes too...

http://www.friendsoforis.com/store/images/P/Friends%20of%20Oris%20BC3%20Advanced%20Sportsman%2 012.jpg

[Likes2ridefar]

i like that one too...

[thirdgenbird]

i like that one too...

Sub $1000 brand new gray market. I need to leave this place too.

[jr59]

Very. It checks my boxes too...

http://www.friendsoforis.com/store/images/P/Friends%20of%20Oris%20BC3%20Advanced%20Sportsman%2 012.jpg


It's a VERY nice watch.

[toastedbread]

Maybe slightly over, but a vintage Omega Speedmaster Professional.

http://www.wristwatcharea.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Omega-Speedmaster-Professional-35705000.jpg

[toastedbread]

And if money were no object, maybe a Rolex 1665 Sea-Dweller Comex

http://www.ginault.com/Rolex/images/sea-dwller/rolex-sea-dweller-1665-comex.jpg

[Likes2ridefar]

And if money were no object, maybe a Rolex 1665 Sea-Dweller Comex

http://www.ginault.com/Rolex/images/sea-dwller/rolex-sea-dweller-1665-comex.jpg

the only problem with that watch is it's really uncomfortable to wear all the time. it weighs a ton and is like a sledgehammer with the crown.

I had a regular sea dweller for awhile which is basically the same but significantly less $...i wanted it for the lack of cyclops but found it not really a daily wear watch. perhaps if you had huge wrists it would work...

[toastedbread]

I had a regular sea dweller for awhile which is basically the same but significantly less $...i wanted it for the lack of cyclops but found it not really a daily wear watch. perhaps if you had huge wrists it would work...

What's your daily wear these days?

[Likes2ridefar]

What's your daily wear these days?

Audemars Piguet diver is on the wrist right now. it also falls into the somewhat uncomfortable category since it's quite heavy as well, but with the rubber strap it's OK as long as I'm not all hot and bothered, AKA swelling wrist running to catch a train, etc.

[choke]

And if money were no object, maybe a Rolex 1665 Sea-Dweller ComexMy money no object Rolex would be a 5517.

[Likes2ridefar]

mine would be the milgauss 6541

[VTCaraco]

http://www.friendsoforis.com/store/images/P/Friends%20of%20Oris%20BC3%20Advanced%20Sportsman%2 012.jpg

This is what I went with, but in their diver version. I wanted the water tolerance and robustness of a diver, but something a little more dressy. It's what's on my wrist now...and has been a good piece for me for the last 10-15 years.

[thirdgenbird]

It would be near perfect without the day and date. They did implement it nicely however.

Edit:
http://www.jomashop.com/oris-watch-735-7641-4164mb.html

Given that price, I'm tempted to order one.

[crownjewelwl]

Audemars Piguet diver is on the wrist right now. it also falls into the somewhat uncomfortable category since it's quite heavy as well, but with the rubber strap it's OK as long as I'm not all hot and bothered, AKA swelling wrist running to catch a train, etc.

I have the ceramic one...it is light!! Have a titanium offshore too...it is impossibly light but isn't very durable

I also have a seadweller deepsea...it is a brick

[Likes2ridefar]

I have the ceramic one...it is light!! Have a titanium offshore too...it is impossibly light but isn't very durable

I also have a seadweller deepsea...it is a brick

Must be a thing of beauty, is the movement visible on your ceramic?

I wish mine didn't have a solid case back so I could at least admire the heavy gold rotor weighing me down.

[thirdgenbird]

So the Vostok amphibian is really growing on me. The design looks odd, but once you read why, it all makes sense. They also sell a nice clean bezel so I wouldn't have to look at a diver bezel. There are tons of case and face options, but my perfered ones don't come together. Thankfully, it looks to be a very cheap part.