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Milestone watch recommendation

  • 05-01-2020 11:43am
    #1
    Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭


    Hi all, please feel free to move this if it should be added to another thread, I couldn't find one to add the comment to.

    Would class myself as a novice really, but looking to make what I consider a significant purchase for myself to mark a milestone. I've done this twice previously and have chosen the two pieces below, a Longine Conquest and a Hamilton Jazzmaster. At the time I would have considered these big purchases but I'm willing to open up my budget for my next piece. Hopefully they give an indication of what I like. I'm not a fan of too much detail on the dial.

    Trying to keep the collection as diverse as possible has me leading towards a blue dial,and in keeping with the theme of not much activity on the dial I was looking at something similar to the Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra. I was also always drawn to the Tag Carrera 5.

    Being a novice, I thought I'd ask for some help in terms of maybe lesser known brands, or lesser known models of bigger brands that might fit the bill.

    I'm open to pre owned (Particularly in the case of the Aqua Terra) provided I get papers/box etc and realistically if I like the watch, it doesn't HAVE TO be a premium brand.

    I'd also be keen to see what resources those more educated than me use to keep an eye on deals etc so I can ready to purchase if something comes up.

    Any recommendations welcome :D


«1

Comments

  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,918 ✭✭✭hitemfrank


    Have a look at Sinn watches. They have some lovely watches.

    You can also get a nice hardback catalogue from them by just sending them your address.

    https://www.sinn.de/de/Katalogbuch_bestellen.htm


    That's a very nice Longines you have there.


  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    Nice recommendation, I had a look through and the blue dial 556 series is lovely. Definitely on the short list.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,775 ✭✭✭Lorddrakul


    @Lombardo123: For my tuppence, I'd go with the Longines, purely on aesthetics.

    But either one is a quality piece.

    Good luck with your choice.


  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    The two watches I attached are the ones I already own.. I like them :D I'm looking for a third one to add to the collection. The longline is 5 years old and the Hamilton 3, looking for a newer model!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 14,310 ✭✭✭✭Cienciano


    Lorddrakul wrote: »
    @Lombardo123: For my tuppence, I'd go with the Longines, purely on aesthetics.

    But either one is a quality piece.

    Good luck with your choice.

    Guess who just read the first 2 lines of the op and skipped to the photos? :pac:

    As you know, lots of personal taste involved in picking a watch like that, everyone will have different opinions. If it were me, I'd probably spent a week solid online looking. Then I'd buy a grand seiko :pac:
    Probably out of your price range

    https://www.montredo.com/en-gb/watches/grand-seiko/grand-seiko-heritage/sbga203g/22336/

    https://watchesofmayfair.com/brand/grand-seiko/heritage-collection/grand-seiko-sbga375-spring-drive

    Problem with looking at watches, photos rarely do them justice. If you find models you're interested in, check on YouTube at least. As hitemfrank said, sinn do some beautiful watches. I'd be similar to you regarding the dial, I only want a date on it


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  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    Cienciano wrote: »

    Wow.. Amazing watch, most likely out of my price range, I'd be murdered for even considering it, unless I squirreled away cash for another while! In saying that, I actually haven't seen an AT that's too much cheaper so I think I might have a problem either way, I seem to have expensive taste.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,775 ✭✭✭Lorddrakul


    Cienciano wrote: »
    Guess who just read the first 2 lines of the op and skipped to the photos? :pac:

    It's true, I have the attention span of a...

    Oh look, a bee!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 993 ✭✭✭Time


    You haven’t mentioned a budget, but if it stretches to 5k you’d be into entry level Rolex territory. A second had datejust or oyster perpetual would both be available within that range and have beautiful blue dials. They also hold value. Alternatively you’d get a brand new Tudor which is very similar well under that price.

    If you like the style the IWC pilots is also very nice and good value second hand. Aside from that I’d personally agree with the Grand Seiko option, stunning watches in the flesh.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 993 ✭✭✭Time


    You haven’t mentioned a budget, but if it stretches to 5k you’d be into entry level Rolex territory. A second had datejust or oyster perpetual would both be available within that range and have beautiful blue dials. They also hold value. Alternatively you’d get a brand new Tudor which is very similar well under that price.

    If you like the style the IWC pilots is also very nice and good value second hand. Aside from that I’d personally agree with the Grand Seiko option, stunning watches in the flesh.


  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    Time wrote: »
    You haven’t mentioned a budget, but if it stretches to 5k you’d be into entry level Rolex territory. A second had datejust or oyster perpetual would both be available within that range and have beautiful blue dials. They also hold value. Alternatively you’d get a brand new Tudor which is very similar well under that price.

    If you like the style the IWC pilots is also very nice and good value second hand. Aside from that I’d personally agree with the Grand Seiko option, stunning watches in the flesh.

    Thanks very much, more homework to do. I think 5k is probably a stretch too far for me at the moment. For the right piece I could stomach 3k probably, I'll have a look and see how much that limits me on the ones you've recommended. I don't mind pre owned for the more expensive ones if the condition is good. I think that's more likely to be honest given I can't see myself getting away from the aqua terra at this point!


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,775 ✭✭✭Lorddrakul


    You could go a couple of different directions, but based on those two, which are both quite dressy (IMHO), you could go for a tool watch.
    A proper diver, pilot or motorsport watch might be good.

    A Tudor Pelagos, Omega Speedmaster, Tag Heuer Monaco, Laco Pilot or the like. All should be within the budget of well sub-5k.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 14,310 ✭✭✭✭Cienciano




  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    Thanks very much everybody.

    It's quite exciting trying to hunt down the right watch!

    I'll report back with maybe a shortlist and try get peoples opinions on holding value etc longer term.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,775 ✭✭✭Zagato


    Don't think anyone has suggested Nomos. They have some nice blue dials.

    Zenith Elite could be within budget if you buy pre-owned, another nice blue dial.


  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    Hi all,

    Still searching and thought I had found something that met my criteria, but wouldn't break the bank as much a the aqua terra. It was a blue dial Seiko SARB045. I have attached a picture but It looks like I am out of luck here. It seems to be discontinued.

    Wondering is there anywhere a particular I should be scouting for these? Anybody come across one before?

    Also found other options like this seiko: SDGM007. Again I seem to have awkward taste


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,261 ✭✭✭saccades




  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123




  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,110 ✭✭✭Thirdfox


    Ahem :P...

    https://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=2058022351&page=2

    (imagine if it was from Omega - it'd definitely be more than 5k :D )

    But if micro-rotor/aventurine ain't your thing and you definitely want to spend up to the 5k mark then I recommend:
    1. Speedmaster if you like to expand out beyond the 3 handers you have currently - though would you find a chrono dial too busy?
    2. Cartier tank - very "milestone" watch I think - distinct style that will wear even dressier than your Longines/Hamilton.
    3. JLC Reverso - same reasons as suggestion number two - both the tank and reverso have simple non-fussy dials - and are iconic (for good reason).
    4. Tudor Pelagos - nice foray into "tool" watches - speaking from personal experience I loved it as a daily wearer - iconic snowflake hands - very legible and titanium is comfortable.


    Finally one offshoot brand that might pique your interest:
    Ball - they use tritium not lume - so the glow never stops (for a good 25 years at least) - and US railroad timekeeper history - clear dials too - tritium makes it different to other watches and the price won't break the bank (if you were looking at around 5k mark before).


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,918 ✭✭✭hitemfrank


    Just another thing about Ball watches, if you get it from iguanasell.co.uk you generally get a coupon on the site for 18% off.

    At least I did for mine and I've seen it a few times since.


  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    Just said I'd give an update here.. I'm a mess, how do you decide on just one!!

    I have a shortlist, spanning a lot of different budgets. I'm still looking to fill a gap in my small collection for a blue dial that isn't too busy.

    1. The Holy Grail is the Omega Aqua Terra. Pushes the limit of what I thought id ever spend, but having felt and worn one during a recon mission, I'm finding it hard to ignore. I have somebody coming through Dubai Duty Free in the next few weeks, I might see if there's much money to be saved there.

    2. On the back of the recommendations I've also enjoyed looking at Ball watches. The Ball Fireman Victory looks fantastic and I'm opening up to the idea of it. Realistically a saving of potentially 66% or so on option 1!

    3. The other option is something that's lovely to "fill the gap" and that's the Seiko Blue Dial Sarx045. Part of me wondering if I go this way, I'll end up still wanting one or two!

    Very hard to pull the trigger!


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,918 ✭✭✭hitemfrank


    Iguanasell.co.uk had 30% off a lot Ball Watches in their January sale.

    I've a Ball Engineer and if there is a similar sale next January or later in the year I'll probably pick up a Fireman.

    I'm loving the look of this one - Fireman Racer

    Ball-Fireman-Racer-Automatic-Watch-Stainless-steel-NM2088C-PJ-WHBE-1_800x.jpg?v=1579812134


  • Posts: 8,856 ✭✭✭ [Deleted User]


    Since you're so set on "blue" thought i'd drop in another for consideration:
    Stowa was out of my price range when looking recently but there's some lovely watches on the site- this one comes with different straps


    https://www.stowa.de/en/Flieger+Classic+40+blue.htm


    Christopher Ward have C 60 Elite 1000 at just under 1600 euro
    https://www.christopherward.eu/c60-elite-1000-blue-orange-2

    or the C65 at over 2k:
    https://www.christopherward.eu/c60-elite-1000-blue-orange-2

    there's also a few under 1000 euro with blue face.

    As they say the search is nearly as exciting as the purchase- I was in your position some weeks ago so happy hunting ;)


  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    Hi all,

    Another stupid question..

    I really prefer the date to be located at 3 o clock on the dial.

    All the new Aqua Terra options available to me seem to only have the 6 o clock option.

    Can you still get a new one with it at 3? I'm not seeing anything.

    I would prefer to go used and have it at 3 o clock!!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 16,933 ✭✭✭✭banie01


    Hi all,

    Another stupid question..

    I really prefer the date to be located at 3 o clock on the dial.

    All the new Aqua Terra options available to me seem to only have the 6 o clock option.

    Can you still get a new one with it at 3? I'm not seeing anything.

    I would prefer to go used and have it at 3 o clock!!

    If there is a more specific version you want?
    My advice would be to go used, get as near to the watch you want.

    You will also have a nice little saving versus new on a 2nd hand aqua Terra and dependant upon where you buy and the service history of the piece may well still have an active warranty too.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,110 ✭✭✭Thirdfox


    banie01 wrote: »
    If there is a more specific version you want?
    My advice would be to go used, get as near to the watch you want.

    You will also have a nice little saving versus new on a 2nd hand aqua Terra and dependant upon where you buy and the service history of the piece may well still have an active warranty too.


    I would warn that if there's no recent service - keep in mind the cost of a service mind be 300-400ish from Omega - so factor that in from a pricing perspective :)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,775 ✭✭✭Zagato


    Hi all,

    Another stupid question..

    I really prefer the date to be located at 3 o clock on the dial.

    All the new Aqua Terra options available to me seem to only have the 6 o clock option.

    Can you still get a new one with it at 3? I'm not seeing anything.

    I would prefer to go used and have it at 3 o clock!!

    Paw3001 just put one up TZ-UK for £1870 it's an 8500 41.5mm with grey baton dial bracelet has some scuffs. If interested you could join and PM him?


  • Registered Users Posts: 1,938 ✭✭✭C0N0R




  • Moderators, Society & Culture Moderators Posts: 12,696 Mod ✭✭✭✭blue5000


    We're a right bunch of enablers on here, wouldn't be everyone's cup of tea either, blue Squale, date at 3
    https://forums.watchuseek.com/f30/fs-squale-30-atmos-marina-blue-5097869.html

    If the seat's wet, sit on yer hat, a cool head is better than a wet ar5e.



  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    Thanks very much everyone.. Its amazing how eager everyone is to help people spend their money :D

    I think I'm set on an AT and I am set on the dial being at 3 rather than 6.. Call me strange I know. But it just 'feels' better.

    Thanks for the heads up re: warranty and cost of service, I hadn't actually factored that in.

    I feel like I'm going around in circles with this, but my biggest watch purchase to date by far, I need to make sure I'm completely happy!


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 9,149 ✭✭✭893bet


    AT on TZ-UK today.

    Grey dial, 1850 gbp.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 9,149 ✭✭✭893bet


    Zagato wrote: »
    Paw3001 just put one up TZ-UK for £1870 it's an 8500 41.5mm with grey baton dial bracelet has some scuffs. If interested you could join and PM him?

    Ah. Slow to the party.

    Def needs a polish. Think 1650 is closer to value on it.


  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    Have decided that I'm getting the AT. Ready to pull the trigger and have a few options on Chrono that I'm willing to go for.

    I'm in the position where I am a fan of all of the different variations on the bracelets. The leather, steel and rubber.

    Up front it's a little cheaper with the rubber straps, but if I wanted to source an omega bracelet for it, any decent retailer have them? I can't seem to see them on omega site, what's the damage in getting the steel bracelet after the fact?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 9,149 ✭✭✭893bet


    Have decided that I'm getting the AT. Ready to pull the trigger and have a few options on Chrono that I'm willing to go for.

    I'm in the position where I am a fan of all of the different variations on the bracelets. The leather, steel and rubber.

    Up front it's a little cheaper with the rubber straps, but if I wanted to source an omega bracelet for it, any decent retailer have them? I can't seem to see them on omega site, what's the damage in getting the steel bracelet after the fact?

    Which version of AT? Latest?

    (Throw up some links so I can encourage you to buy one I like in the hope you flip it to me next year)

    They come up occasionally second hand 350-400 euro second hand. 600-800 new I am guessing.

    If buying new from AD then get bracelet now. Cheaper add rubber etc later.


  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    I keep changing my mind but at the moment it is 220.10.41.21.03.002 and in either rubber or steel bracelet.

    Sample on Chrono for reference here

    I was against the date being at 6 on the dial but its grown on me and the others in my collection both have it at 3. I also really like the extra detail on the second hand being blue.

    This watch will be unflippable. :D its marking a big milestone for me personally and professionally and I think it'll take a lot to get rid of it. Probably why I've been like a tortoise getting to the exact one I want!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 14,310 ✭✭✭✭Cienciano


    Date window at 6 is probably a nicer design tbh.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 9,149 ✭✭✭893bet


    Make sure you try before you buy. Any of the ADs will have one in stock. Worth seeing if they will give a decent discount. If it is truely a keeper your name on the paper might be worth it (wouldn’t bother me but some it would.).

    They are a lovely watch. The integrated rubber is sublime! The 41mm wear big IMO as the bezel is small bit is better proportioned than the smaller one.


  • Registered Users Posts: 1,149 ✭✭✭redlead


    I keep changing my mind but at the moment it is 220.10.41.21.03.002 and in either rubber or steel bracelet.

    Sample on Chrono for reference here

    I was against the date being at 6 on the dial but its grown on me and the others in my collection both have it at 3. I also really like the extra detail on the second hand being blue.

    This watch will be unflippable. :D its marking a big milestone for me personally and professionally and I think it'll take a lot to get rid of it. Probably why I've been like a tortoise getting to the exact one I want!

    That's a beauty. It kind of has a railmaster vibe to it which was always my favourite seamaster.

    Check out this too if you like your seamasters. Fair enough it costs more and not in your budget but is a serious watch for the money. I wasn't aware of it at all until watchfinder did a video on it.

    https://youtu.be/JetCBA8N4T0


  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    Trigger pulled. :cool:

    Approximately 6 weeks to source and deliver!


  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    Well.. Unfortunately still no Aqua Terra.

    Wondering what people make of the situation, because of the lag in time, chrono are saying I can get a full refund if I wish. But its been paid for over 2 months now, the money is gone.. And I want the watch. But I'm wondering, should I expect to see the prices drop?

    Been keeping an eye and nothing to be saved at the moment on the model I purchased.

    Anybody with some insight think there's savings to be made if I pulled back and waited?

    Seller seems to be sourcing from Spain, and there still doesn't seem to be a date by when they claim they will have their hands on the watch.

    Thankfully the money is safe, but I want my watch!!


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 9,538 ✭✭✭btkm8unsl0w5r4


    Well.. Unfortunately still no Aqua Terra.

    Wondering what people make of the situation, because of the lag in time, chrono are saying I can get a full refund if I wish. But its been paid for over 2 months now, the money is gone.. And I want the watch. But I'm wondering, should I expect to see the prices drop?

    Been keeping an eye and nothing to be saved at the moment on the model I purchased.

    Anybody with some insight think there's savings to be made if I pulled back and waited?

    Seller seems to be sourcing from Spain, and there still doesn't seem to be a date by when they claim they will have their hands on the watch.

    Thankfully the money is safe, but I want my watch!!

    Dude thats terrible, You should get your money back asap from Chrono. I dont think prices will drop much in the short term, but one thing is that AD's will defo give you 20-30% on it without having to bargain too hard. Whats the budget?


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  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    My only issue is that I csnt find it cheaper at the moment, and with my money protected I'm a little more relaxed maybe.

    I went to Dawson Jewellers when I was looking in order to get a feel for the watch..a significant difference in price for what they were selling for vs what I got it for. 33%


  • Registered Users Posts: 1,149 ✭✭✭redlead


    .a significant difference in price for what they were selling for vs what I got it for. 33%

    except you didn't get it.

    I think at this stage, its been proven that the dealer isn't able to source the watch. I'd look for a refund and look elsewhere if I were you. This is the sort of scenario where the trusted checkout works out great. It could have been dicey otherwise.


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 9,538 ✭✭✭btkm8unsl0w5r4


    Exactly, they sold you a watch they didnt have, for a price they cannot achieve. A watch in the hand is worth two in the shopping basket. These deals only happen in an active market. With todays stalled market all bets are off and the flippers are in big trouble, all thats left is actual watches with actual values.


  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    Thanks all, I've done what I knew I would but nice to get it validated. My first significant purchase, I have a few more modest watches, and my first on chrono. Never occurred to me that could happen, but glad I did have the funds protected.

    Ive contacted few other sellers and one says they actually have that model, but price is up 100. I think its gone on so long I'll just pay it as I really want the watch.

    At this stage of rather give it to an Irish company but the difference is too much.. I'm not that charitable!

    Will report back if I ever get my hands on it


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 9,538 ✭✭✭btkm8unsl0w5r4


    well I hope its goes smoothly, you have been more than patient.


  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    Finally got a tracking number from the new seller. :cool:

    The excitement!


  • Posts: 0 [Deleted User]


    Lovely watch you have chosen. I chose an AT 2500 (black dial on stainless steel) for my first "significant" watch and love it. They are really nice all rounders.

    The newer models are perhaps a little more sporty (I would class the 2500 as 60% dressy 40% sporty and the current model as 40% dressy 60% sporty) but still so versatile.

    I'm glad yours is on its way to you.


  • Registered Users Posts: 150 ✭✭Lombardo123


    Finally!!

    Absolutely delighted with the watch. Instantly fell in love with it. The rubber clasp feels fantastic and a lot more comfortable than I had anticipated.

    Thanks to all for the advice over the last few weeks, I think this could turn in to a full on addiction now. 3 in the collection and this my first automatic one.

    I might have a few issues getting budgetary approval for the next one!

    512561.jpg

    Edit: ignore the date.. Too eager to get a snap!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 9,149 ✭✭✭893bet


    That’s lovely! The fitted strap is the job?

    Brand new from grey?


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 9,538 ✭✭✭btkm8unsl0w5r4


    Thats gota be new, condition is amazing. Lovely watch, well wear.


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