New watch.

Rightwing

My watch (Tag Heuer) is after giving in, over 15 years from it so can't complain. I don't want to get it reconstructed.

I'm looking for one in the region of €5K. Which watch in this category is best? I'm tending towards a Breitling.

Nonoperational

There's no "best" in that category. Some people like a nice in-house movement for that money not just a rebranded ETA.

What type of style are you after? Sports, dress etc?

blindsider

If you're going to spend €5K on a watch, why not ask e.g. Emily in Watchrepairs.ie for a quote on fixing the Tag - you might have 2 watches for the price....

Homer

New? Pre Owned? Style? Specific requirements or functionality? Need moar info!

ThebitterLemon

I asked and received loads of advise on here last August when I started a post about getting a new watch.

Ended up getting a Breitling Navitimer and have been delighted with it.

It's pretty big though and I don't have big wrists.

TbL

Rightwing

ThebitterLemon wrote: »

I asked and received loads of advise on here last August when I started a post about getting a new watch.

Ended up getting a Breitling Navitimer and have been delighted with it.

It's pretty big though and I don't have big wrists.

TbL

Thanks folks. Only precondition is a new watch.

How much was the Breitling?

Deep Thought

you would get a great IWC Chrono for that cash something like the 3717 and have change

I would probably even offload my IWC Aquatimer and still leave you with 1.5K to buy something else

ThebitterLemon

Rightwing wrote: »

Thanks folks. Only precondition is a new watch.

How much was the Breitling?

I think it was 5k sterling or thereabouts, if I can find the receipt I'll tell you exactly what it cost.

I bought it in Watches of Switzerland in London and haggled a reasonable discount. Reckon I saved a fair few quid on Irish high street price.

I got it with a bracelet instead of a strap and this was a move expensive option.

TbL

fishguy

Hi,

I would suggest to do some serious research before buying a watch for €5K, specially as you sound like someone who would wear that piece for long years to come as a primary daily wearer. Factors you might consider are functions like a second time zone or chronograph, maybe a GMT hand, mechanical (buzzing) alarm function or water resistance. Style, like a sport watch or more like a dress watch (but if you are favoring Breitling you are pretty much a sport watch guy like myself) Also it's really important to decide if you want to buy a watch new for full retail price or buy it second hand with maybe no warranty but getting a better deal. As that your €5K opens a lot of possibilities I would also suggest to think back of your previous watch what features were you missing as this time you might pick a watch that is more for you. If you want just a plain(ish) sport watch I would suggest a Rolex Submariner or GMT Master both from the previous generations. You can get NIB (new in box) examples for about €4000-€5000. Some don't like Rolex watches as they believe it's more hype than quality, but don't believe them for a second. In my opinion (experience) Rolex watches are the best built sport watches in the world. Another option what I would suggest to you is the the Jaeger LeCoultre Master Compressor series. You can find chronographs, world time watches, mechanical alarm pieces for about €5k used, Superb quality and water resistance, but most of them are on leather straps and this might be a con for some. Also Omega has brilliant and very affordable luxury(ish) pieces. But for €5K you can get a used Seamaster Planet Ocean Chronometer Chronograph used in mint condition, and that is a truly brilliant watch. If you are looking for more dressier ones Jaeger LeCoultre Master Control series would be my best advise followed by Zenith and IWC.

Personally I would stay away from Tag and Breitling as you can find much more bang for the buck watches even in lesser known brands like Seiko. The Seiko spring drive and Grand Seiko watches are very high quality and very understated watches. You can find great examples for €5K.

If you give us more specs and preferences I'm sure that we come up with more refined ideas.

Chose wisely!

fg

Rightwing

fishguy wrote: »

Hi,

I would suggest to do some serious research before buying a watch for €5K, specially as you sound like someone who would wear that piece for long years to come as a primary daily wearer. Factors you might consider are functions like a second time zone or chronograph, maybe a GMT hand, mechanical (buzzing) alarm function or water resistance. Style, like a sport watch or more like a dress watch (but if you are favoring Breitling you are pretty much a sport watch guy like myself) Also it's really important to decide if you want to buy a watch new for full retail price or buy it second hand with maybe no warranty but getting a better deal. As that your €5K opens a lot of possibilities I would also suggest to think back of your previous watch what features were you missing as this time you might pick a watch that is more for you. If you want just a plain(ish) sport watch I would suggest a Rolex Submariner or GMT Master both from the previous generations. You can get NIB (new in box) examples for about €4000-€5000. Some don't like Rolex watches as they believe it's more hype than quality, but don't believe them for a second. In my opinion (experience) Rolex watches are the best built sport watches in the world. Another option what I would suggest to you is the the Jaeger LeCoultre Master Compressor series. You can find chronographs, world time watches, mechanical alarm pieces for about €5k used, Superb quality and water resistance, but most of them are on leather straps and this might be a con for some. Also Omega has brilliant and very affordable luxury(ish) pieces. But for €5K you can get a used Seamaster Planet Ocean Chronometer Chronograph used in mint condition, and that is a truly brilliant watch. If you are looking for more dressier ones Jaeger LeCoultre Master Control series would be my best advise followed by Zenith and IWC.

Personally I would stay away from Tag and Breitling as you can find much more bang for the buck watches even in lesser known brands like Seiko. The Seiko spring drive and Grand Seiko watches are very high quality and very understated watches. You can find great examples for €5K.

If you give us more specs and preferences I'm sure that we come up with more refined ideas.

Chose wisely!

fg

Well I must say thank you, there is some info in there. I just like a nice watch, I prefer the sports ones. Main thing for me is a reliable one that looks well.

Is buying off the internet safe (as in genuine watches) or am I better to deal with a local jeweller?

peasant

In your quest, don't overlook the Germans

http://www.union-glashuette.com/en/kollektion/

http://tutima.com/watches/

http://www.muehle-glashuette.de/en/wristwatches.html

Nonoperational

So so may to choose from my friend.

If it was me... I would look at the following.

Jack Heuer 80th anniversary, a really beautiful Tag Heuer.
Omega Ceramic Planet Ocean, a solid robust diver with a glass back showing off a lovely in house movement.
JLC Reverso, all class but maybe a bit limited in when you'd wear it.
Breitling Navitimer, an all-time classic.
Breitling Superocean 44, can get these for quite cheap online and they are a nice solid casual watch with a bit of colour.
Panerai 111, different but surprisingly versatile
Rolex Sub, a used Sub or Sub-C has a lot of appeal to many, not really so much to me.

Like there are so so many options, nice problem to have!




Buying online is fine if you know where your getting if from, but you may not have manufacturer warranty or/and be hit for customs duties if you order from outside the EU.

fishguy

I would say it's safe to buy from the internet. Firstly if you pay with PAYPAL (if you can) you are protected buy them, but you need to let them know within 60 days if you are not happy with the deal or you haven't received the watch. Secondly you need to buy the seller not just the watch. If a seller provides previous references on sale forums (you can always ask for them) and give out personal information on request (name, address) and you can have a quick chat with the seller over the phone (I think it's normal in this price range) than yes go ahead and buy it. But if you don't feel safe or you are not sure, even if you miss a great deal don't buy it. €5K is a lot of hard earned moniez at the end of the day ...

One thing is good to remember. Pre-owned is not necessary means used. You can find lots and lots of New In Box watches that are brand new but the original warranty has expired for great prices. It never hurts to look around. An educated decision is a good decision...

I don't know the link for the TZ.UK sales forum but you can try watchuseek classifieds:

http://forums.watchuseek.com/f29/

or the Rolex forum sales corner:

https://www.rolexforums.com/forumdisplay.php?f=9

Look around and don't rush. If you find a nice and interesting piece check the reviews online and YouTube. There is a wealth of knowledge out there. Also you can always ask us too.

fg

Rightwing

Just seen this one, looks good to me.

http://www.authenticwatches.com/omega-aqua-terra-22120424001002.html

Nonoperational

Bit flash for me! Just be careful with duties and tax if coming form overseas!

ThebitterLemon

Nonoperational wrote: »

So so may to choose from my friend.

If it was me... I would look at the following.

Jack Heuer 80th anniversary, a really beautiful Tag Heuer.
Omega Ceramic Planet Ocean, a solid robust diver with a glass back showing off a lovely in house movement.
JLC Reverso, all class but maybe a bit limited in when you'd wear it.
Breitling Navitimer, an all-time classic.
Breitling Superocean 44, can get these for quite cheap online and they are a nice solid casual watch with a bit of colour.
Panerai 111, different but surprisingly versatile
Rolex Sub, a used Sub or Sub-C has a lot of appeal to many, not really so much to me.

+ 1

Excellent list, all lovely watches.

I'd probably add an IWC Portuguese and you couldn't go wrong

TbL

Rightwing

Nonoperational wrote: »

Bit flash for me! Just be careful with duties and tax if coming form overseas!

I''ll check out your list.

Would you think that Omega is genuine?

I never new Zenith watches were so expensive. I just stumbled on this watches forum, 1 of the best and most helpful on boards.

Nonoperational

ThebitterLemon wrote: »

+ 1

Excellent list, all lovely watches.

I'd probably add an IWC Portuguese and you couldn't go wrong

TbL

Obviously I forgot to mention one of my favourite watch brands! IWC Portuguese a great shout, as are many other IWCs. The 3717 is a great great watch too.

Rightwing wrote: »

I''ll check out your list.

Would you think that Omega is genuine?

I never new Zenith watches were so expensive. I just stumbled on this watches forum, 1 of the best and most helpful on boards.

That Omega is genuine alright, that site is legit but the watches are most likely Grey Market. If you read the warranty terms it says the repairs are facilitated through Authentic-watches.com. So you can't walk into an Omega dealer here and get it sorted like you could if you bought the watch in an authorised dealer. The advantage is that you save a great chunk of money!

The beauty of this is that you can't really go wrong! You should have a look at some of the suggestions and make a list. If you have time pop it up here and people will have a look and give an opinion.

Rightwing

Nonoperational wrote: »

Obviously I forgot to mention one of my favourite watch brands! IWC Portuguese a great shout, as are many other IWCs. The 3717 is a great great watch too.



That Omega is genuine alright, that site is legit but the watches are most likely Grey Market. If you read the warranty terms it says the repairs are facilitated through Authentic-watches.com. So you can't walk into an Omega dealer here and get it sorted like you could if you bought the watch in an authorised dealer. The advantage is that you save a great chunk of money!

The beauty of this is that you can't really go wrong! You should have a look at some of the suggestions and make a list. If you have time pop it up here and people will have a look and give an opinion.

Must say I'm very appreciative to all here.

That site has a Zenith for instance listed at $30K. Is there any way we can check to see if these watches were ever those prices?

Eoin

I do absolutely love the IWC Portuguese, but is it a good candidate for a daily wearer?

Nonoperational

Rightwing wrote: »

Must say I'm very appreciative to all here.

That site has a Zenith for instance listed at $30K. Is there any way we can check to see if these watches were ever those prices?

Maybe you could find the RRP on google, or search for what the model costs from other retailers.

Eoin wrote: »

I do absolutely love the IWC Portuguese, but is it a good candidate for a daily wearer?

Probably not, but it depends. If it was me I'd have it ruined in a year, but my Dad would do just fine with it!

fishguy

Nonoperational wrote: »

Bit flash for me! Just be careful with duties and tax if coming form overseas!

I have to agree with Nonoperational, it has to be the cheesiest Omega I saw in a long time. But hey if you like buy it! It has to be your watch, and it has to be a reflection of who you are.

fg

fishguy

Eoin wrote: »

I do absolutely love the IWC Portuguese, but is it a good candidate for a daily wearer?

Eoin, I would say YES, as that is an absolutly fabulous and durable watch. There shouldn't be a reason why you can't have it one every day all day. An IWC is built to last for decades of constant wear. They might look delicate, but actually the are really sturdy watches.

fg

Homer

Eoin wrote: »

I do absolutely love the IWC Portuguese, but is it a good candidate for a daily wearer?

I would say I wear my 3717 on weekends mainly, sometimes I might not wear it for a couple of weeks at a time, but it could definitely be a daily wearer. It looks just as good with a suit and tie as it does with jeans and a t shirt. As mentioned its certainly not delicate and is extremely comfortable on the standard issue leather deployant strap.

Marcusm

Rightwing wrote: »

Just seen this one, looks good to me.

http://www.authenticwatches.com/omega-aqua-terra-22120424001002.html

That wouldn't be my style but here's the 44mm version from a UK site - no tax on importation.

http://www.swisswatchesdirect.co.uk/swisswatches/231.20.44.50.06.002-mens_watches.html

Zagato

Nonoperational wrote: »

Bit flash for me! Just be careful with duties and tax if coming form overseas!

I wouldn't spend this much on a watch coming in from US unless I was still happy with the price + customs/duties (which I would definitely look into calculating - am I right in assuming that they are based on the value rather than what you paid for it?)
Also this is not the current version of this watch according to the Omega website if that bothers you.

Lex Luthor

€5k on one watch...must be nice

If it was me I would get myself a few watches for your budget

Maybe a chrono, diver, marine and pilot

Steinhart & Stowa have watches that will fill all categories and probably still have some change and you will have some nice wrist wear for different occasions

These Laco Chronographs are lovely aswell
https://shop.laco.de/en/Chronographs/Valjoux-44-blue.html
https://shop.laco.de/en/Chronographs/Valjoux-44-rosegold.html

Rightwing

Zagato wrote: »

I wouldn't spend this much on a watch coming in from US unless I was still happy with the price + customs/duties (which I would definitely look into calculating - am I right in assuming that they are based on the value rather than what you paid for it?)
Also this is not the current version of this watch according to the Omega website if that bothers you.

Think I'm going to go for this one. Big thank you to everyone for the help.

fishguy

As I said if you are happy with the looks go for it. The quality is top notch! Co-axial movement, so the maintenance period is longer than the previous lever escapement models, chronometer certified so it can't lose more than 4 sec and can't gain more than 6 sec a day, chronograph, 150m water resistant...you wont be disappointed.

Wear it good health!

fg

Rightwing

fishguy wrote: »

As I said if you are happy with the looks go for it. The quality is top notch! Co-axial movement, so the maintenance period is longer than the previous lever escapement models, chronometer certified so it can't lose more than 4 sec and can't gain more than 6 sec a day, chronograph, 150m water resistant...you wont be disappointed.

Wear it good health!

fg

The only criteria for me are the looks and a good brand. People like yourself have a wealth of knowledge about watches, and I've enjoyed reading other threads.
Thanks again.

ArphaRima

I would seriously consider the JLC Master Compressor range.

I wear a Breitling Transocean Chronograph as my daily, a tag monaco for beering and my IWC Portuguese Automatic once a week.

A friend owns the JLC and I covet it. For daily wearing that or a Rolex Milgauss vert would be my choice.