any watch afficianados or collectors around? [Archive]

zarathustra

Nov 17, 2003, 06:14 PM

I have been collecting watches, not necessarily "fine" watches. I wish I could afford to collect Piaget, Baume&Mercier, Longines, JaegerLecoultre, etc. but don't really have the funds right now.

Since I work for a watch company I have an extensive collection of watches, of which the most expensive watches are a Zodiac and a Panerai. Other than that I have dozens of watches from Armani, Diesel, Swatch,Fossil, Philippe Starck, Paul Franck, Burberry, DKNY, Cole Haan, Alessi, etc.

I don't necessarily collect them, but instead I like the way they look or the functions they have and then wear the heck out of them.

gwuMACaddict

Nov 17, 2003, 06:20 PM

Originally posted by tazo

*pointing to my cellphone* but can your watch or your cellphone make phone calls?

;)

last i heard, timex was working on this. so was casio

gwuMACaddict

Nov 17, 2003, 06:22 PM

Originally posted by zarathustra
I have been collecting watches, not necessarily "fine" watches. I wish I could afford to collect Piaget, Baume&Mercier, Longines, JaegerLecoultre, etc. but don't really have the funds right now.

jaeger makes beautiful watches and supplies movements for many of the more expensive watch brands. audemars piguet and breguet have both used jaeger movements in the past.

tazo

Nov 17, 2003, 06:27 PM

Originally posted by gwuMACaddict
last i heard, timex was working on this. so was casio

yeah, but it still wont look as nice as my cellphone ;) I kid...

3rdpath

Nov 18, 2003, 02:46 PM

yep, i'm a watch nut for sure...much to my wife's dismay.

it's funny though, that for all the fine swiss yada yada my nice watches have...none of them keep time as well as the $20.00 quartz timex i wear when gardening...go figure.

but what's life without a little bling bling?;)

andym172

Nov 18, 2003, 03:09 PM

Have had a SS Rolex Daytona on order for a few months...(5 year waiting list! :()

Have just got rid of my Omega Seamaster GMT after having a few problems with it losing time.

My current watch, and most prized possesion, is a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date which my dad gave to me (he found it a little to chunky).

Would love an original Heuer Monaco (blue face) and an IWC Portuguese. Perhaps in a few years... :D

gwuMACaddict

Nov 18, 2003, 04:42 PM

Originally posted by andym172
Have had a SS Rolex Daytona on order for a few months...(5 year waiting list! :()

eeeewwww... ;) wouldnt it be more fun to put that money towards a used lange and sohn or blancpain? something no one else has.

i'm just giving you a hard time. i think that rolex is a little overrated, though the new daytona movement is nice. before last year rolex used the zenith el primero chronograph movement which was the first wrist watch chrono movement. but you could get in a bunch of other watches too.

:)

gwuMACaddict

Nov 18, 2003, 04:44 PM

Originally posted by 3rdpath
yep, i'm a watch nut for sure...much to my wife's dismay.

you just have to get her in to it!! after years of being dragged to watch shows and shops my gf is finally taking an interest. although my back account wishes she wasnt ;)

andym172

Nov 18, 2003, 04:52 PM

Originally posted by gwuMACaddict
eeeewwww... ;) wouldnt it be more fun to put that money towards a used lange and sohn or blancpain? something no one else has.

i'm just giving you a hard time. i think that rolex is a little overrated, though the new daytona movement is nice. before last year rolex used the zenith el primero chronograph movement which was the first wrist watch chrono movement. but you could get in a bunch of other watches too.

:)

I'm not a huge fan of Rolex either - very much the BMW of watches IMHO, but, the SS Daytona just does something for me. I suppose it's the motorsport link that I most appreciate! :)

gwuMACaddict

Nov 18, 2003, 05:17 PM

Originally posted by andym172
I'm not a huge fan of Rolex either - very much the BMW of watches IMHO, but, the SS Daytona just does something for me. I suppose it's the motorsport link that I most appreciate! :)

it is a very sylish watch. i've vowed never to own a rolex, but if i was forced- i like the white gold daytona with the meteorite dial. thats pretty cool. i just dont understand why they jack their prices to high when so many other swiss firms prodoce amazing watches in smaller quantities with more hand finishing. rolex is too much of a name for me i guess

3rdpath

Nov 18, 2003, 07:48 PM

Originally posted by gwuMACaddict
you just have to get her in to it!! after years of being dragged to watch shows and shops my gf is finally taking an interest. although my back account wishes she wasnt ;)

believe me i've tried...she did wear a vintage cartier tank of mine for awhile but she's just not into them...i've even taken her to " wanna buy a watch" here in lala and another place called antiquarious that is a vintage jewelry mecca...no luck. i begged her to pick one out while we were in rome a few years back( great selection and great prices) but no deal.

my next watch is gonna be a titanium casio solar triple sensor compass/altimeter/barometer watch for my outdoor excursions. not fancy/expensive but man does it have the features.

interesting watch story: years ago when i lived in tahoe i skied quite regularly. one day i was skiing with some friends and late in the afternoon we stopped for lunch. i looked down to see what time it was and my watch was gone....granted it wasn't the best watch i had but it was an early 60's rolex steel and rose gold that was quite nice. so i decide to retrace my runs( which is just about all of the friggin moutains) and since i'm not that great of a skier---i'd fallen just about everywhere...the odds were not good.
as i'm walking out to get my gear i see a " lost and found" office and think "what the heck". i stop in and ask if anyone turned in a rolex and the girl behind the counter pulls my watch out from a drawer! i was astonished. my faith in mankind was renewed for at least 2 years...

next week i'll be in dallas and i'm gonna try to find my father's old pulsar digital watch from the 70's...it was the first digital timepiece and it's funny to think how fascinated people were with it back then. now it just looks groovy. you had to use a little magnet( hidden in a watchband compartment) to set the time. this will round out my 70's collection.

damn, now i'm psyched up again...off to see whats on www.tourneau.com. and www.wannabuyawatch.com

gwuMACaddict

Nov 19, 2003, 01:45 AM

also check out the european watch company based out of boston. they have the best little shop on newburry st. and an awesome website. i've dealt with them before and they are fantastic

jefhatfield

Nov 19, 2003, 02:22 AM

i have sometimes liked movado, but it depends on my mood that day

i like the blue angels watch with all the stuff on it

and just about any 100 percent titanium watches are really great and if i had a watch, that's what i would want since i hate the feeling of something heavy on my wrist...i looked at a skagen and a seiko and they were both great

all the watches i mentioned are under 400 dollars, and some way less so i guess they wouldn't be considered fine watches like a cartier or rolex ;)

tazo

Nov 19, 2003, 09:34 AM

If I had 100 extra dollars I might buy a fossil watch :)

gwuMACaddict

Nov 19, 2003, 10:53 AM

Originally posted by jefhatfield
i have sometimes liked movado, but it depends on my mood that day

movados are very distinctive. i'm impressed with them because they are starting to use more swiss automatic movements in their watches. more fun than quartz

Toppa G's

Nov 19, 2003, 11:13 AM

Originally posted by tazo
*pointing to my cellphone* but can your watch or your cellphone make phone calls?

My cellphone certainly can make phone calls :D

etoiles

Nov 19, 2003, 11:26 AM

I have been wanting to buy a NICE watch for a long time, but then I usually buy a new computer instead...

I really like the Tag Heuer Kirium, I am not too much into the 'overloaded' models. I also like the ikepod watches (www.ikepod.com), but then again I'll probably get a G5 before that :p

And I shouldn't be posting this (my cousin works for Tag Heuer, my best friends' wife for Movado) but check this out if you are into crazy Japanese stuff: http://www.tokyoflash.com/

funkywhat2

Nov 19, 2003, 11:32 AM

all i have is my trusty old swatch. it's one of the skin ones, with a metal band. i love it, but i need to get it lengthened.

gwuMACaddict

Nov 19, 2003, 12:31 PM

Originally posted by etoiles

I really like the Tag Heuer Kirium, I am not too much into the 'overloaded' models. I also like the ikepod watches (www.ikepod.com),

the tag kirium looks really cool, but when i tried one on i felt like the metal bracelt was more restrictive than some of the other companies's metal bracelets. ikepod is totally cool and i never see any of them on anyones wrists, but they can get pretty expensive, can't they? they use basic eta movements i think. i know they make a tourbillon that looks pretty cool though.

3rdpath

Nov 19, 2003, 12:52 PM

here's the pulsar p2...pure 70's grooviness. uses an LED and was kind of a pain because you had to push a button to see the time. later they devised a mercury mechanism that lit up the time when you flicked your wrist.

james bond wore one in " live and let die" before trading it in for a magnetic rolex...

gwuMACaddict

Nov 19, 2003, 04:43 PM

Originally posted by 3rdpath

james bond wore one in " live and let die" before trading it in for a magnetic rolex...

bond also wore a breitling before switching to omega for the new movies.

i like that pulsar alot. personally i prefer swiss and german mechanical watches, but i love the old acutron spaceviews. that pulsar is cool though- cant beat fun stuff like that

3rdpath

Nov 19, 2003, 11:46 PM

Originally posted by etoiles
check this out if you are into crazy Japanese stuff: http://www.tokyoflash.com/

holy cow they have cool stuff...i'm gonna order a couple after thanksgiving. the translation watch is too funny.

thanks for feeding my addiction.:D

psycho bob

Nov 20, 2003, 12:27 AM

wasn't the original blue dialled Heure Monaco done for Steve McQueen in the film LeMans as an advertising ploy. Don't think it ever went into production though until the recent reissues only the standard model was with the three chronograph dials was released. Hence the reason the reissue was called the 'Steve McQueen Monaco' and also carried the name Tag Heure where as all the other vintage reissues carried only the original Heure name.

3rdpath

Nov 20, 2003, 01:20 AM

Originally posted by psycho bob
wasn't the original blue dialled Heure Monaco done for Steve McQueen in the film LeMans as an advertising ploy. Don't think it ever went into production though until the recent reissues only the standard model was with the three chronograph dials was released. Hence the reason the reissue was called the 'Steve McQueen Monaco' and also carried the name Tag Heure where as all the other vintage reissues carried only the original Heure name.

according to wannabuyawatch there is a 70's vintage steve mcqueen monaco. they also have a 3 dial monaco( non steve mcqueen) for $3250.00

psycho bob

Nov 20, 2003, 05:58 AM

interesting, never seen an original then. Must be quite rare in that config (blue).

PigDog

Nov 20, 2003, 09:00 AM

Yes, I am a watch dude, Vintage Watches Inc. is my little business, I do not have modern watches but just the older vintage models, I have been collecting, repairing and having fun with watches for the last 25 years and still every day I find is a learning experiance, another vintage watch that I had never seen before appears! Here (hopefully) is a Tudor chronograph that is from 1970s

I am sorry I did not attach the photo, I tried but I failed!

gwuMACaddict

Nov 20, 2003, 10:17 AM

i like a lot of the vintage watches... do you mean old jaegers and iwc's? or more of the american brands?

absolut_mac

Nov 23, 2003, 03:57 AM

Originally posted by gwuMACaddict
I have been collecting fine watches for going on 5 years now. Just wondering if anyone else got as exicted about fine watches as i do?

:)

Here are a few interesting watchsites for you....

http://www.timezone.com/

http://www.thepurists.com

http://www.timedesign.de/

The 3rd site has an enormous amount of related info and links, such as his *Mechanical Watch Movements* and *2000+Links on Wristwatches*.

Enough info on these sites to keep you busy for a while:)

gwuMACaddict

Nov 23, 2003, 03:42 PM

thanks so much, i've actually been to two of those sites before. some of the best resources that i have found are the watch magazines that come out periodically. watchtime is my favorite, with excellent articles and reviews.

:D

3rdpath

Nov 24, 2003, 11:06 AM

woohoo...found the pulsar p2 at the family home in dallas but alas the magnet is gone...i bet i can find one online...the detective work begins...

it is soooo disco.

question...does anyone in dallas NOT wear a rolex...how boring.

blueflame

Nov 24, 2003, 11:49 AM

i love watches also
i have a longines, and a pulsar, plus a few collectables

the one i am working on now is a frank muller watch ( the master of complications)
i love watches
Ak

gwuMACaddict

Nov 24, 2003, 12:11 PM

Originally posted by 3rdpath

question...does anyone in dallas NOT wear a rolex...how boring.

haha! YES! no kidding... itas a big 'fashion' thing here in dc also, lame if you ask me

gwuMACaddict

Nov 24, 2003, 12:12 PM

Originally posted by blueflame

the one i am working on now is a frank muller watch ( the master of complications)
i love watches
Ak

are you looking to get one of his complicated watches? or a very basic one...? he is very open about using ETA movements, i think this is kinda ridiculous considering what he charges for the watches...

3rdpath

Feb 7, 2004, 09:43 PM

the pulsar lives!!!

after picking up my father's old P2 over thanksgiving i found out the batteries that fit it were no longer in production...luckily i was able to find a guy in colorado who makes a spacer that fits around the current smaller sized batteries so they fit the battery cavity of the watch. i ordered them and waited....

meanwhile, i managed to remove the back of the watch to see if the old batteries were left inside of it, hoping that 30 years worth of corrosion hadn't destroyed the watch. thankfully the batteries had barely leaked and i was able to scrape the corrosion away with some tweezers.

today, i finally received the batteries and spacers and popped them into the pulsar, not knowing if it even worked...surprise! it works perfectly! since i don't have the original setting magnet( i have one on order from a dealer in canada), i had to set it using a magnet from one of my kid's toys...too funny.

i am a happy camper.:D

5300cs

Apr 7, 2004, 06:12 PM

jefhatfield

Nov 16, 2004, 07:38 AM

I just found this forum through a search for something else :)

I wasn't a big watch fan until I was in Guam last November and lucked out big time. There was a Japanese department store going out of business with 50% off everything. So I got this Omega Speedmaster (http://www.omegawatches.com/omega/mu_col_1957) (a replica, not the original) and this Kirium Quartz (http://www.tagheuer.com/watches/detail.lbl?watch=WL111F.BA0701&search=s:5;F:14;T:0;C:s;) for about $2000. (Also 2 Mont Blanc fountain pens for $130, but don't get me started on fountain pens, that's for another thread :D :) )

those are great looking watches...i wonder how much a vintage omega speedmaster would cost

i like the james bond/pierce brosnan omega for its looks and ability to withstand 300 meters depth, but $3100 dollars is very expensive...if money was no object, this watch would be it...great looks, thin and light, and tough

i find for me the most important watch feature is being at least 200 meters water resistant and for 40 dollars to 300 dollars, there are a lot of choices and these are the sale prices i found...of course, none of the watches were as thin and elegant as an 18 kt gold omega, but they are equally as tough and water resistant

here's what i looked at in that range...prices before tax:

timex reefgear with black face and orange accented dials, 200 meters...39 dollars

casio g-force with digital display, 200 meters, all g-force models are also impact resistant 2 stories...69 dollars

casio g-force with yellow face and black dials, 200 meters...104 dollars

citizen dive watch with black face, 200 meters...149 dollars

bullova dive watch with black face, 200 meters...190 dollars

citizen dive watch with black eco drive/solar panel face, 200 meters...210 dollars

luminox navy seals dive watch, government contract model, but not more expensive civilian fashion model, 200 meters...225 dollars

citizen very heavy duty dive watch with black face, 300 meters...301 dollars

all these watches were bulky and/or heavy and none of them look good with a suit or dressed up...these dive watches either have velcro or plastic bands...he he...but for more money, slightly more elegant/thin water resistant watches with stainless steel bands good for outdoors and formal (if needed) start at 350 dollars (quartz tag heuer and dress/fashion navy seals watch) and go up to 900 dollars for a stainless steel quartz omega

again, the 18 kt gold omega could actually look great in a tux/suit and still go deeper than the actual navy seals watches, but my list is no more than one tenth the price of the omega...i did see a 1950s gold omega seamaster with white face and leather strap for 2000 dollars and that was totally amazing ;)

in the end, i bought the hundred dollar g-force but almost bought the 200 dollar bullova

jefhatfield

Nov 17, 2004, 12:30 PM

btw, i am new to watches, or lusting after them... ;)

is there any point in a luxury dive watch? ...like the tutima dive watch for $795 dollars? what does it offer that a more reasonably priced tag heuer or citizen doesn't?

gwuMACaddict

Nov 17, 2004, 02:55 PM

stubeeef

Nov 17, 2004, 03:21 PM

As a pilot, i can geek on a watch.

here is a neat one I have a version of.

yeswatch (http://yeswatch.com/)

The nicest I ever got was an Omega Speedmaster, bought in '81.

monkeydo_jb

Nov 17, 2004, 04:02 PM

WinterMute

Nov 17, 2004, 08:15 PM

I've had a Rado Ceramica Multi-function for nearly a year, I sold a Rolex Perpetual Oyster to get it, cos the Rolex just looks like a fake on me.

I get people asking if its a watch or not!

jefhatfield

Nov 17, 2004, 09:14 PM

can't believe someone ressurected my dead thread...

a tutima is going to give you a better case from a reasonably well known and well respected company. stay away from quartz though... no resale value... mechanicals are much more fun...

other good and cheap (but GREAT value) mechanical dive watches are Bell and Ross, Sinn, maybe a used Breitling or IWC.

i saw a few dive watches that were mechanical and the most reasonably priced one i could find was the omega seamaster pro for 1895 dollars, where the quartz version of the same watch was 1099 dollars

quartz is much more in my price range and i saw a tutima quartz dive watch for 795 and a tag heuer quartz dive watch for 550 dollars and they seemed really cool...somewhat luxurious and not as expensive as any mechanical watch

jefhatfield

Nov 17, 2004, 09:22 PM

My dad is the biggest Navy SEAL fan in the world.

Two years ago for Christmas my brothers and I got him one of these (http://www.luminox.com/catalog/catalog10.asp) luminox watches, which
Navy SEALS actually wear.

The borosilicate glass capsules on each of the numbers and hands are amazingly bright,
and don't require any battery power or button to be pushed.

He was soooo stoked....

i like the two major lines of that watch model from luminox...navy seals official combat watch for 189-225 dollars and the fashion (luxury) watches based on the navy seals watch (same movement) but with a classy metal case and nice metal band for 300 dollars

i know the tag heuer dive watch i want is 550, as posted above in my previous post, and the tutima dive watch is 795, but the navy seals watch from luminox, the original which is the cheaper one for 225 or less, has a certain historical significance to it that i like since it's the actual watch that won the contract for the navy seals...but that model still looks too much like a kid's fossil skateboarder watch from a distance with its plastic case and velcro strap or plastic band ( http://www.luminox.com/catalog/catalog3.asp ) so i am considering the fashion based metal case navy seals type watch for a little more and i know i can abuse it yet still wear it dressed up...or if i can't make up my mind, i should get both those luminox watches ;)

i am also an armchair fan of the seals, delta force, and the rangers and it would be interesting to see what they wear in the field

3rdpath

Nov 17, 2004, 09:42 PM

if you're really going to dive, i'd suggest buying a fairly inexpensive watch...i almost lost a Sea Dweller on some underwater debris during a cave dive. after that, i switched to a $50.00 casio diving watch.

also, indiglo( or similar) helps because things get mighty dark after about 60 feet...it's actually easier to see the indiglo backlight than shining a diving light on the face of the watch.

fwiw, i've always found the 200 meter certification pretty funny...if your watch actually hits 200 meters, odds are:
a) you've dropped it into the ocean, never to be seen again
b) you and your watch actually hit 200 meters in depth and time ( and other mortal concerns) become pretty irrelevant. :D

jefhatfield

Nov 17, 2004, 10:21 PM

fwiw, i've always found the 200 meter certification pretty funny...if your watch actually hits 200 meters, odds are:
a) you've dropped it into the ocean, never to be seen again
b) you and your watch actually hit 200 meters in depth and time ( and other mortal concerns) become pretty irrelevant. :D

with what i do for a living, gardening and landscaping and computer repair, i want a watch i can get wet and muddy and one that can take a few clumsy bumps day in and day out...my regular 30 meter water resistant watches got banged up and wet (inside the case) with my everyday work activities...and after two dead watches, i went for overkill with my casio g-shock g-511 model

i just don't want to get another watch soaked inside or bang it up and while many 100 meter watches (for 50 dollars) could have done the job, i just didn't want to risk killing it so i opted to spend 100 dollars for the 200 meter g-shock, but still saved money by not getting that durability with swiss style/movement which would have set me back another hundred or so

it's just kind of fun to look at tough he-man watches that can look cool and see how a manufacturer can sell it for 500, 1000, 2000, and even 3000 dollars :)

monkeydo_jb

Nov 18, 2004, 09:08 AM

i like the two major lines of that watch model from luminox...navy seals official combat watch for 189-225 dollars and the fashion (luxury) watches based on the navy seals watch (same movement) but with a classy metal case and nice metal band for 300 dollars

Actually that was the wrong watch I linked to.

It's this (http://www.luminox.com/catalog/catalog4.asp) one- the 3102.

I really like the steel band with black inserts in the middle.

fradac

Nov 18, 2004, 10:30 AM

i wonder if you guys have seen this, to be produced in 2006

http://www.tagheuer.com/basel2004/monacov4.lbl

frist new mechanical moment in ages

gwuMACaddict

Nov 18, 2004, 06:34 PM

i wonder if you guys have seen this, to be produced in 2006

http://www.tagheuer.com/basel2004/monacov4.lbl

frist new mechanical moment in ages

first of all... companies roll out brand new and very original mechanical movements every year

second of all... tag has yet to produce a single specimen of that watch because they can't get it to work. it's back ordered for years.

jefhatfield

Nov 18, 2004, 06:38 PM

i wonder if you guys have seen this, to be produced in 2006

http://www.tagheuer.com/basel2004/monacov4.lbl

frist new mechanical moment in ages

from what i have seen in the local stores near me, you can get a tag heuer for less than 600 dollars in some cases...unlike most other fine swiss watches

...but this one looks very expensive ;)

i looked at seiko dive watches and chronographs today and most were way under five hundred, but they did have two really cool models in the 2500 dollar range

this tag heuer looks like a very top of the line type of model where price point is not a consideration...most makers have watches like this from what i have noticed

Macaddicttt

Nov 18, 2004, 08:15 PM

gwuMACaddict

Nov 18, 2004, 10:49 PM

Does anyone know were I can get a classic-looking pocket watch (preferably with Roman numeral numbers) for not too much? Thanks.

get an old mechanical at an antique show or watch shop... the old american brands (waltham, hamilton, illinois) made cheap, reliable watches. many with see-through backs so you can admire the inner workings. expect to spend around $150-as much as you want. really great deal actually...

globetrotter0

Jan 2, 2005, 01:06 PM

Can anyone enlighten me on the 50th Submariner? How is it built and what's the deal with the movement and production line?

jemeinc

Jan 2, 2005, 02:30 PM

I have been collecting fine watches for going on 5 years now. Just wondering if anyone else got as exicted about fine watches as i do?

:)

I like the arm candy too... My most recent purchase was from a Russian company called Fortis... They have some interesting stuff- good quality...

My everyday watches are a Swiss Army- it's so tough, yet stylish or a Fossil- not sure why I like the Fossil so much, but I do...

EGT

Jan 2, 2005, 03:01 PM

I recently bought a second Hand Breitling Blackbird. It's a Fantastic watch.

I've been looking at the breitling site a lot. They have some very good looking watches, but they're so expensive!

mpw

Jan 2, 2005, 03:08 PM

I think watch people and calculator people are sorta alike. They all marvel at what each other's respective products can do...mine can play games..mine can surf the internet.

I retort with the following to people who talk about their watches, or their calculators:

*pointing to my cellphone* but can your watch or your cellphone make phone calls?

;)

In 20years most Rolex will still tell you the time will your cell phone still be going in half that time? I very much doubt it.

absolut_mac

Jan 2, 2005, 03:15 PM

Can anyone enlighten me on the 50th Submariner? How is it built and what's the deal with the movement and production line?

Exact same movement as the regular Sub - Cal. 3135 - virtually identical dial too, but with larger luminous markers and hands. Oh, and an ugly green bezel and ugly price increase to match it too :eek:

Edit, added links for Rolex official pics

http://www.rolex.com/collections/oyster/pop_oyster_submariner1_02.html

http://www.rolex.com/collections/oyster/pop_oyster_submariner1_01.html

jefhatfield

Jan 2, 2005, 04:35 PM

I recently bought a second Hand Breitling Blackbird. It's a Fantastic watch.

I've been looking at the breitling site a lot. They have some very good looking watches, but they're so expensive!

the best price i found was 1550 for an automatic...i wish rolex had something in that range, or omega

one watch dealer told me it's the rolex and omega names which makes them a tad bit overpriced compared to similar tutima, rado, or breitling watches

i just discovered some decently priced hamilton autos...under 400 dollars :)

gwuMACaddict

Jan 3, 2005, 07:38 AM

My most recent purchase was from a Russian company called Fortis... They have some interesting stuff- good quality...

nice! thats the once that cosmonauts wear in space!

gwuMACaddict

Jan 3, 2005, 07:39 AM

Exact same movement as the regular Sub - Cal. 3135 - virtually identical dial too, but with larger luminous markers and hands. Oh, and an ugly green bezel and ugly price increase to match it too

ha- no kidding. its a total joke. cant believe that rolex still gets away with price fixing... such crap :(

gwuMACaddict

Jan 3, 2005, 07:40 AM

I recently bought a second Hand Breitling Blackbird. It's a Fantastic watch.

i've got one of their regular chronograph watches and love it- the blackbird is very cool with it's matte stainless steel finish!

5300cs

Jan 3, 2005, 07:52 AM

You know, I've always been fascinated by watches, but never really had enough money to buy any nice ones. I really want a pocket watch, but I can't find any that I like. Does anyone know were I can get a classic-looking pocket watch (preferably with Roman numeral numbers) for not too much? Thanks.

I got this one in Switzerland last summer. It doesn't have numerals on it, but if it's good enough for the Swiss Railway, it should be for you! :D

http://www.worldlux.com/cgi-bin/showmodel.cgi?field0=Mondaine&field1=Pocket%20Watch&dept=WATCH&collect=

absolut_mac

Jan 3, 2005, 11:09 AM

ha- no kidding. its a total joke. cant believe that rolex still gets away with price fixing... such crap :(

That's only because all the Rolex dealers are - to use Gov. Schwarzenegger's term - *girlie men* and have neither the guts nor the balls to take them to court on it.

Or maybe they're just making so much money from Rolex's successful marketing that they just don't care. Kind of like Dell and all those others making tons of money off MS crappy software :rolleyes:

gwuMACaddict

Jan 3, 2005, 11:38 AM

DanTekGeek

Jan 3, 2005, 11:44 AM

I admit, I am a watch nut. I allways have been, and Im only 16. I allways get the "youve had more watches than the rest of the family combined" speech whenever I need a new one. Unfortunatly, as of late, cash has been tight, and I havent had a watch at all. Mainly because Id rather have no watch, than a crappy watch. ;)

3rdpath

Jan 3, 2005, 02:59 PM

That's only because all the Rolex dealers are - to use Gov. Schwarzenegger's term - *girlie men* and have neither the guts nor the balls to take them to court on it.

Or maybe they're just making so much money from Rolex's successful marketing that they just don't care. Kind of like Dell and all those others making tons of money off MS crappy software :rolleyes:

you're missing the point: rolex is not in the watch business, they're in the luxury business...there is a difference. you maintain a product's price point to reinforce the perceived value of the product, much like apple does. to compete on price mingles your product with all the other discounters...it's a one way race to the bottom.

my $10.00 timex keeps the same time as my rolexes, if not better. the timex doesn't need to be reset if its not worn for a few days, it's indiglo feature is much better than luminous markers and it has a plethora of functions that no rolex has. so the question is, why would anyone spend more than $200.00 on a watch....because we're suckers for perceived value. we like luxuries...cars, clothes, viking stoves...whatever.

the law of diminishing returns can rarely compete with human emotions.

absolut_mac

Jan 3, 2005, 05:28 PM

you're missing the point: rolex is not in the watch business, they're in the luxury business...there is a difference. you maintain a product's price point to reinforce the perceived value of the product, much like apple does. to compete on price mingles your product with all the other discounters...it's a one way race to the bottom.

You are 100% correct. But keep in mind that while price fixing may be legal in Switzerland and other European countries, or at least deliberately ignored by their governments, it is not legal here in the USA.

Therefore, if they want the privilege of doing business in the USA, they must abide by our laws or they should be fined and kicked out.

By the way, Rolex does a pretty good job of maintaining their products perceived value - just look at the demand for them and their resale value. So there is no need for them to resort to illegal means in order to achieve their desired goal.

absolut_mac

Jan 3, 2005, 05:38 PM

um... 'taking them to court on it' results in losing your lisence to sell the product. not exactly a positive outcome. and yes, i'm sure the retailers do enjoy their hefty markups.

Only if they lose the case. If they win, not only will they receive a huge payout from Rolex, but if Rolex dumped them as a dealer, it would be seen a case of revenge which would then result in further penalties.

But, as I implied above, the dealers really like Rolex's pricing policies, because it means that they are not obligated to give discounts, and they know that those dealers who do, will not remain dealers for too long :(

3rdpath

Jan 3, 2005, 06:27 PM

You are 100% correct. But keep in mind that while price fixing may be legal in Switzerland and other European countries, or at least deliberately ignored by their governments, it is not legal here in the USA.

Therefore, if they want the privilege of doing business in the USA, they must abide by our laws or they should be fined and kicked out.

with all due respect, you are very wrong.

setting a MSRP for a product is not price fixing. rolex only controls the market for rolex...there are a multitude of other manufacturers of watches available. i also believe that price fixing usually involves the collusion of competitors to set an artificial price.

by your definition Apple is also guilty of price fixing.

PigDog

Jan 3, 2005, 07:08 PM

I have been repairing & selling watches for the last 28 years, and have found that the quality of the Rolex to be excellent, I just serviced a Rolex Red Submariner Ref.1680 made in 1972 the owners father had purchased this watch new and had used it for 32 years and had now given it to his son, and yes the watch looked its age, the case and band were scratched and worn as was the crystal, the movement was dirty and the oil was dry. The dial was perfect which just shows how hermetic the Oyster case is. After the restoration this Sub looked great and kept reasonable time. There is no other watch company that comes close to making a such a resistant watch, yes I do love Omega and longines but Rolex is in a class of its own!
The Red Rolex Sub cost around the $300 in 1972 today this watch has a actual resale value $3800 today.

absolut_mac

Jan 4, 2005, 03:55 AM

with all due respect, you are very wrong.

setting a MSRP for a product is not price fixing. rolex only controls the market for rolex...there are a multitude of other manufacturers of watches available. i also believe that price fixing usually involves the collusion of competitors to set an artificial price.

by your definition Apple is also guilty of price fixing.

Nobody was talking about the MSRP, because virtually every manufacturer of every product suggests one.

Price fixing is when manufacturers or distributors penalize dealers because they choose to sell the products below MSRP, or below a target price set by them in order to artificially maintain a high price.

A classic example of the above taken to its extreme - and no, Rolex is not in the same category - is the DeBeers diamond cartel. That crystalized piece of coal is only worth so much thanks to DeBeers total and complete monopoly of the diamond market.

Most car manufacturers, watch distributors/manufacturers etc openly engaged in this practice until a few high profile cases in the past decade or two hit them where it hurts most. So now even those companies that still engage in this practise, do it in such a way so as not to open themselves to price fixing law suits.

That's one of the reasons that US drug companies are crying foul about distributors importing their US manufacturered drugs from Canada and vastly undercutting their artificially high prices.

absolut_mac

Jan 4, 2005, 04:13 AM

The Red Rolex Sub cost around the $300 in 1972 today this watch has a actual resale value $3800 today.

Check out the quality of the Elgin, Hamilton and Waltham watches from the 1920's/1930's and compare them to Rolex watches from the same period. There is absolutely no comparison.

The difference is that the Swiss adapted - although very painfully - to the onslaught of cheap Japanese quartz watches, the Americans didn't.

The Rolex watches of today are very well made and keep excellent time for a mechanical movement. Sure they are overpriced for what they are, but that expensive marketing campaign that inflates their retail price, pays dividends when/if you decide to sell your Rolex 10 or 20 years later. While no watch is an investment per se, Rolex watches consistently hold their resale value better than virtually every other brand - excluding the special Patek Philippe watches that collectors are so fond of.

gwuMACaddict

Jan 4, 2005, 08:02 AM

Check out the quality of the Elgin, Hamilton and Waltham watches from the 1920's/1930's and compare them to Rolex watches from the same period. There is absolutely no comparison.

The difference is that the Swiss adapted - although very painfully - to the onslaught of cheap Japanese quartz watches, the Americans didn't.

...While no watch is an investment per se, Rolex watches consistently hold their resale value better than virtually every other brand - excluding the special Patek Philippe watches that collectors are so fond of.

the first comerically available quartz watch didnt appear until 1969, when it was offered by seiko. so i have NO idea what you're talking about when you say the 1920's had anything to do with the swiss mechanical era of that time. The first comercially available automatic mechanical chronograph hadn't even been released yet.

i still contend that rolex price fixes to a degree and that this alone is the ONLY reason for the high resale vaule...

Black&Tan

Jan 4, 2005, 09:51 AM

Can anyone point me in the right direction to find watches by Hi-Tek Designs? I've searched online, but to no avail. These watches place more emphasis on design and style, and as a designer, I find these watches very ineresting.

gwuMACaddict

Jan 4, 2005, 09:54 AM

havent heard of them. xemex makes interesting watches that often win design awards from the major watch magazines.

Black&Tan

Jan 4, 2005, 10:02 AM

I've got 2 Hi-Tek watches, and as far as I can tell, they were only available in the UK. The first one, I bought about 11 years ago on one of the kitschy tourist streets in London. The second one I bought about 5 years ago in a neighborhood near Soho. The store also sold leather biker paraphanelia. Definitely not a high class place, but the watches were very distinctive. The last time I visited London, I tried to find another Hi-Tek watch, but couldn't even find a place that sold them.

gwuMACaddict

Jan 4, 2005, 10:14 AM

their old internet domain name doesnt appear to be registered anymore... you might be out of luck. its hard for watches that rely strictly on design and nothing else to remain in business for any substantial period of time.

Gee

Jan 4, 2005, 10:20 AM

I have been collecting fine watches for going on 5 years now. Just wondering if anyone else got as exicted about fine watches as i do?

:)

If you're interested, there's a really cool watch magazine called QP that one of my friends writes for: www.qpmagazine.com

Check it out....

gwuMACaddict

Jan 4, 2005, 10:27 AM

not much to check out except for a link to send them money for a subscription... its a shame they dont have a larger online description or examples of their articles.

davegoody

Jan 4, 2005, 10:37 AM

eeeewwww... ;) wouldnt it be more fun to put that money towards a used lange and sohn or blancpain? something no one else has.

i'm just giving you a hard time. i think that rolex is a little overrated, though the new daytona movement is nice. before last year rolex used the zenith el primero chronograph movement which was the first wrist watch chrono movement. but you could get in a bunch of other watches too.

:)

I have a Breitling Emergency Mission (With Radio emergency transmitter), Breitling Navitimer, IWC Deep One GST, Maurice Lacroix, plus a few less valuable - funnily enough, the most accurate of them all is a £20 ($40) el Cheapo Casio Digital - and the battery has lasted 5 years too ! - Oh well, suppose that is the price of progress !

gwuMACaddict

Jan 4, 2005, 10:41 AM

I have a ... IWC Deep One GST

the one with the mechanical depth gauge? i've been looking for this watch for years. they are very, very hard to find here in the states... thats quite a nice piece- congrats! my younger brother lusts after the breitling emergency, i just cant justify the cost that high for a quartz watch in my head.

davegoody

Jan 4, 2005, 10:59 AM

the one with the mechanical depth gauge? i've been looking for this watch for years. they are very, very hard to find here in the states... thats quite a nice piece- congrats! my younger brother lusts after the breitling emergency, i just cant justify the cost that high for a quartz watch in my head.
All very nice watches - funnily enough I purchased the IWC when in New York around four years ago. As for the Breitling Emergency Mission, wearing it now, it is HEAVY and you have to be careful not to scratch the Powerbook AL 17" keyboard surface whey you are typing with it. The Breitling Emergency is a different beast, lighter (Titanium) and with a digital display as well as analogue - the Emergency Mission is fully analogue, is accurate (though still not as accurate as the cheapo Casio :mad: ) but is a real conversation piece.

The Dollar rate is great for us Brits at the moment, so back in NYC later this month to potentially expand the collection, fancy a nice Movado or maybe something else - like BIG watches mainly (as you can tell by the current collection !)

Black&Tan

Jan 4, 2005, 11:07 AM

Damn. It was worth a shot. I'll still keep my eyes open every once in a while and I'll check out Xemex to see what they have to offer... thanks.

absolut_mac

Jan 4, 2005, 11:36 AM

the first comerically available quartz watch didnt appear until 1969, when it was offered by seiko. so i have NO idea what you're talking about when you say the 1920's had anything to do with the swiss mechanical era of that time. The first comercially available automatic mechanical chronograph hadn't even been released yet.

I think that you misinterpreted what I said, or maybe I just didn't state it clearly enough.

All I was implying is that from the time that the American companies started making watches in large numbers until shortly before their demise (or bought out by the Swiss and the Japanese) the quality of their watches was far superior to that of most Swiss watches, even although the American watches were far cheaper and produced in greater numbers too. The time span that I'm referring to is around 1880 to the early 1960's.

A perfect example of the above is Hamilton's amazing achievement of making ships chronometers during WW2 in considerably larger numbers than any Swiss company at the time. Although these were produced by the thousands, they were far more accurate and reliable than their Swiss equivalents. According to Marvin Whitney - author of Ships Chronometer - they were accurate to around 1 second a month under war time conditions i.e. ships plowing through the seas firing those huge canons and being fired upon in return, and enduring very wide temperature swings. This amazing achievement has never been equaled, let alone bettered by any mechanical watch.

When you see American watches from that time that haven't had their appearance destroyed by inept watchmakers, they look like they came out of the factory this morning.

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0918845084/102-1462352-3431366

gwuMACaddict

Jan 4, 2005, 11:47 AM

All I was implying is that from the time that the American companies started making watches in large numbers until shortly before their demise (or bought out by the Swiss and the Japanese) the quality of their watches was far superior to that of most Swiss watches, even although the American watches were far cheaper and produced in greater numbers too. The time span that I'm referring to is around 1880 to the early 1960's

i think its difficult to make such a blanket statement. there were awful watchmakers on each side of the atlantic then, just as there are now. and there are amazing watchmakers on each side of the pond today too. ulysse nardin is one ships chronomoter maker that comes to mind from europe.

absolut_mac

Jan 4, 2005, 11:53 AM

i think its difficult to make such a blanket statement. there were awful watchmakers on each side of the atlantic then, just as there are now. and there are amazing watchmakers on each side of the pond today too. ulysse nardin is one ships chronomoter maker that comes to mind from europe.

Read Marvin's book.

Hamilton's chronometer was based on the Ulysee Nardin one, but with a few improvements, both to help increase production and its accuracy and reliability. So while it might not have the same snob appeal of its Swiss sibling, it was - and still is - far superior to any other ships chronometer according to all the experts, not just Marvin.

As stated earlier, I was referring mostly to the larger successful American watch companies - Hamilton, Elgin, Waltham etc

EGT

Jan 4, 2005, 02:45 PM

the best price i found was 1550 for an automatic...i wish rolex had something in that range, or omega

i just discovered some decently priced hamilton autos...under 400 dollars :)

Well my Blackbird was £1600 ( :eek: ) ... well worth it when compared to the price of a new one. It will be easy enough to sell on, it came with its original sales certificate and everything and I’ve just realised breitling has stopped making the blackbird so it has lived up to its “serie Speciale” name.

I've had my eye on breitling for ages and tried a few on at Heathrow... oh they had Fortis watches their too, vvverrrryy cool watches..

Thanks gwuMACaddict, the matte finish is very cool as is the sapphire face which has a nifty blue tint to it :D

noel4r

Jan 4, 2005, 04:36 PM

gwuMACaddict

Jan 4, 2005, 05:50 PM

omega speedmaster is a great watch... as for keeping it looking new? thats tough, when you wear watches- they get scratched. i try to keep different watches for different occasions so not one in particular is taking all the abuse.

absolut_mac

Jan 5, 2005, 03:17 AM

For the watch experts out there: I recently got an Omega Speedmaster Date. Any opinions about that watch? How long do these watches lasts? Also, other than the obvious, any special tips I can do so it keeps looking new?

Great watch - post a pic, or a model number.

Don't use the chrono when the watch is wet, otherwise this will force moisture into the case. Only the Seamaster Chronos have special pushers that can be used under water that will not allow water into the case.

Have it tested once a year to make sure that it is water resistant, and have it serviced once every 5 or 6 years to keep it in tip top shape.

Enjoy your new watch :)

Giaguara

Jan 5, 2005, 04:22 AM

i dont collect watches .. i dont even like them. anytime i have one, just wearing it normally makes me discharge the battery in 2 months. otehr ppl can have the battery last the normal time = 1-2 years, for me they never last more than 3 months = really annoying.

the most recent example: bought a watch 20 nov 04 .. a few weeks ago it was already missing time a lot :(

andym172

Jan 5, 2005, 05:58 AM

My current watches:

IWC Portuguese:

http://homepage.mac.com/mahony1/.Pictures/Photo%20Album%20Pictures/2004-10-20%2008.31.35%20-0700/Image-84A64F0622AC11D9.jpg

Panerai Luminor Marina:

http://homepage.mac.com/mahony1/.Pictures/Photo%20Album%20Pictures/2004-10-20%2008.31.35%20-0700/Image-84A6BE2222AC11D9.jpg

http://homepage.mac.com/mahony1/.Pictures/Photo%20Album%20Pictures/2004-10-20%2008.31.35%20-0700/Image-84A6B21022AC11D9.jpg

http://homepage.mac.com/mahony1/.Pictures/Photo%20Album%20Pictures/2004-10-20%2008.31.35%20-0700/Image-84A6346C22AC11D9.jpg

I also have a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date which I didn't have photographed.

On order: SS Daytona :D

gwuMACaddict

Jan 5, 2005, 06:06 AM

Black&Tan

Jan 5, 2005, 10:11 AM

Does anyone know anything about Oakley watches? While this is not a collectors watch, it is similar in style to the Hi-Tek watches I was mentioning earlier.

http://oakley.com/catalog/colors/watches/analog/crush_2.0/stainless_steel_black/

The link is to the Oakley Crush 2.5. A very stylized timepiece. What I like about the watch is the shape, the curving face and the integration with the watchband. But I have no idea what the band is made of. Oakley calls it "unobtainium." Is this just a fancy term for a rubber/plastic composite? Thanks!

gwuMACaddict

Jan 5, 2005, 10:22 AM

the strap is rubber.

for that much money you may want to consider a seiko? they have been releasing watches with interesting designs for the past few years

absolut_mac

Jan 5, 2005, 10:47 AM

stainless daytona, eh? how long have you been waiting? how long do you anticipate waiting? for the money- approx $6000 US, right? i'd get something like a jaeger reverso, or a blanpain. :D

hahaha let me know where you can buy a stainless steel Daytona for $6,000. The current going rate is around $9,000 - 50% above retail. Now that's what you call successful marketing :eek:

gwuMACaddict

Jan 5, 2005, 10:50 AM

Black&Tan

Jan 5, 2005, 10:56 AM

Thanks! Rubber is definitely not an option. I have a hard enough time with metal straps, my sweat turns them green!! I'll look at some of the Seikos...

absolut_mac

Jan 5, 2005, 10:58 AM

a reputable jeweler is not going to charge him more than retail. if he wants to pay over retail for that watch, i think he's a huge sucker. or that we just don't see eye to eye with respect to taste in watches :o

yes, it is some amazing marketing by rolex.

Hmm, I've been into watches virtually my whole life, first as a hobby, and now professionally. Rolex Daytonas have virtually always sold for more than their MSRP. But the current Daytonas take the cake at 50% above.

So I guess that means that there aren't too many reputable Rolex dealers out there? Not there there aren't some who don't mind *giving away* three grand and sell it for MSRP, but they are the exception not the rule.

PS If you have found a Rolex dealer who is willing to forgo the extra cash, post a link, because there are many Rolex aficionados who would appreciate the tip :)

gwuMACaddict

Jan 5, 2005, 11:04 AM

in my years of collecting and (limited) dealing, the people i have worked with have *never* sold a rolex for more than it's MSRP. this includes dealers across the US. perhaps its because of the relationships i've formed with them over the years.

paying more than retail for that watch is ridiculous. any dealer that sells it first hand and claims to be an authorized rolex dealer ought to lose their privlage to carry the brand, in my opinion.

and the price has come down anyway recently, as people ar wising up. i know of three different ones for sale in DC- quoted prices of $7000 flat out. its stupid to pay that much for that watch.

absolut_mac

Jan 5, 2005, 11:08 AM

in my years of collecting and (limited) dealing, the people i have worked with have *never* sold a rolex for more than it's MSRP. this includes dealers across the US. perhaps its because of the relationships i've formed with them over the years.

That's true. Most dealers, Rolex or otherwise, tend to work closely and honestly with those that have supported them over the years.

andym172

Jan 5, 2005, 12:30 PM

i like the IWC the best, based on your collection. seems like you gravitate towards big watches? that trend started a few years ago, i'm not a big fan... i just dont like how the big watches look on me.

stainless daytona, eh? how long have you been waiting? how long do you anticipate waiting? for the money- approx $6000 US, right? i'd get something like a jaeger reverso, or a blanpain. :D

:)

It's fair to say that the watches in my current 'collection' are on the largish side (especially the Panerai), but I'm a fan of all shape and sized watches.

The design of the IWC is my favourite (I like the classic look) and is the watch I wear for dressy occasions. The Panerai is my daily watch due to its solid construction (I reckon it could survive a direct hit in a nuclear blast :D) and the Rolex was given to me by my father and is only brought out now and again.

The Rolex is my most prized possession due to it being given to me by my dad and I currently have a real mental block in sending it away to Rolex to be serviced just in-case it gets lost/damaged. Sadly it's badly in need of a good clean/service so I guess it's best to send it sooner rather than later...

I ordered the Daytona just over a year ago and am expecting to be waiting for another 3-4 years yet. The wait is killing me, but in my opinion there's something deeply uncool about paying over RRP, therefore I'll wait (:() :)
I've heard of some Rolex retailers selling SS Daytona's to 'friends' for RRP and those 'friends' being the people who charge the premium (no doubt with the retailer receiving some sort of thank you... ;)). Any officially recognised Rolex distributer who attmepted to sell a new Rolex for more than the RRP would be instantly struck off from what I've been told. This has not stopped new SS Daytona's from being made available for approx £6k in the UK and approx £9k in Hong Kong.

There are a few other watches which I wouldn't mind getting my hands on (specifically an original blue face Heuer Monaco) but I'm currently content with those I have.

Though, I do constantly have an eye on this site (http://www.thewatchguru.co.uk/index2.html) and this site (http://www.blitzwatches.co.uk/) ;) :D

aricher

Jan 5, 2005, 01:02 PM

Horrible company name - some cool LED watches though:

Pimp Watches (http://www.pimp-watches.com/en/)

3rdpath

Jan 5, 2005, 02:34 PM

another site to check out...wanna buy a watch (http://www.wannabuyawatch.com)

they usually have a few vintage daytona's and i've seen a couple of vintage monaco's for sale there.

they are very reputable dealer and do a lot of business with the hollywood crowd. my wife had them custom make my wedding ring using a photo of a vintage ring as a guide.

gwuMACaddict

Jan 6, 2005, 07:53 AM

nice link... interesting site. i think i had been directed to them before when i was looking for a specific piece, but ended up dealing with someone locally

5300cs

Feb 3, 2005, 01:49 AM

I was flipping through a watch magazine today and remembered this thread. Back from the abyss again :D

I was thinking of getting an Explorer I, which goes for ¥350,000 here in Japan ($3,369) but then I saw the Omega Seamaster with blue face that goes for ¥150,000 ($1,444.) What, besides the Rolex name, makes it so much more expensive? I know why Apple is priced higher, but I'm having a hard time figuring out the deal with Rolex.

Even-though I only have one, I'm a big Omega fan and like their designs.

Last year in summer I went to Switzerland, and in the Prada shop in Zurich I found a limited edition Prada watch by IWC. In the store it cost about Sfr4,500 ($3,774) and we decided against it. Over here in Japan, I've seen it go for around ¥670,000 ($6,450) :eek: Maybe I should've bought it afterall ... :rolleyes:

PigDog

Feb 3, 2005, 07:35 AM

The Rolex Explorer is the sure way to go, a true great watch and there is due a Rolex price increase in the next few days, sport model Rolex's are in high demand and will go even higher, I just attended the Miami Beach Antique show (lots of modern and vintage watches) and asking prices were high on all Rolex, I also sold a few Rolex watches and the market is hotter than I have ever seen, but 5300cs please go and get that explorer, I just puchased an early (1958) Rolex GMT Ref. 6542 this model has no crown guards the crown just sticks out on the case with no protective sides, I was very happy to find this model!

5300cs

Feb 3, 2005, 07:42 AM

... but 5300cs please go and get that explorer ...
Er, so you'd recommend the Rolex over the Omega then. Is Rolex of better quality?

gwuMACaddict

Feb 3, 2005, 07:52 AM

5300cs

Feb 3, 2005, 08:42 AM

why do you like the rolex? do you actually like the design? or are you attracted to the status symbol that society attaches to it? why are you buying it- is it for sport/dress/casual?

i have always felt that rolex is one of the most overrated brands around. their movements are bland, undecorated, uninspired. you can beat the crap out of them though

For most of the reasons you posted, stupidly enough (on my part) :rolleyes:

I like the Seamaster though, because of the design. This one (http://www.omega.ch/omega/co_watch?ID=16761&line=null&gen=G&sublineID=16737) looks just like the Explorer. I thought though, that for twice the price with the Rolex, I'd get twice the quality, but if that's not the case then forget about it.

gwuMACaddict

Feb 3, 2005, 09:03 AM

there is nothing wrong with liking a watch for those reasons, its all personal taste. for instance, i actually like the look of the rolex better than the omega that you linked to.

if i were you, i would look at a few different models from IWC, Breitling, Bell & Ross, Fortis, Panerai, etc

those companies all make large, sporty watches that i think you would like

absolut_mac

Feb 3, 2005, 02:04 PM

Er, so you'd recommend the Rolex over the Omega then. Is Rolex of better quality?

I personally don't think that the Rolex movements are any better than the Omega ones, other than the fact that they are exclusive to Rolex. Whereas the Omega ones, the co-axial excluded, are not - eg Omega Caliber 1120 = ETA Caliber 2892/A2 plus 2 extra jewels and slightly more fancy decoration. Both companies movements are very accurate and reliable.

On the other hand though, the Rolex watch cases are superior to Omega's, and virtually every other stainless steel watch available out there. The reason is that every watch manufacturer in Switzerland makes their cases out of 316L stainless steel, whereas Rolex make theirs from 904L stainless steel. The raw material alone costs about 5 times more than the regular 316L.

The main advantage of the 904L over the 316L is that it is considerably more corrosion resistant. A moot point for those people like me who prefer titanium anyway :)

As for why the Rolex costs so much more? IMHO, while the case and movement probably contribute to a small increase in manufacturing costs compared to Omega, the major reasons are Rolex's marketing costs and profit margins are a lot higher than Omega's too. Rolex's marketing strategy obviously pays good dividends as their watches hold their value much better than most others, excepting certain models from Patek Philippe and other collectible pieces. Please note that this is just my own personal opinion. Your mileage may vary.

5300cs

Feb 3, 2005, 07:28 PM

*sigh* Thanks for the advice, but it ends up making my decision harder.
I like the Rolex because of the design, and because of the name. It'd be nice for me to have a Rolex, and if it uses better materials then it is probably worth the extra money.
On the other hand I like Omega because I already have one, and I like their understated, quiet elegance. I also have a thing about brand loyalty.
I also like Mondaine, but they seem to be far from luxury watches. I also have a Tag Heuer and more than a few Swatches.
My mother being from Switzerland, I'm partial to Swiss watches :D

PigDog

Feb 3, 2005, 08:10 PM

That is the great thing about watches, so many models, brands and styles and stuff you realy need to choose from like a moonphase and split seconds chronograph, I have a Corum Peary meteorite and it has a beautiful moonphase dial but how often do I need to know the lunar cycle, I guess never would be the real answer but it does look cool. The chronograph is another great looking complication and yes I love them, but how often have I used one for anything of the slightest importance, never! The Omega Seamaster in the link is a great watch but it is a little plain for me, it looks too similar to the Rolex, the quality is great and the price is affordable it does use an ETA movement which is good and tough. I do have a similar Omega with a very nice blue dial which uses the Co Axle escapement but the watch looks almost like a Rolex DateJust, the escapement is meant to run without oil (old oil causes the movement to run poorly) but this escapement is not so resistant to shock. Get the watch that is you and fits your lifestyle, it is all in the eye of the beholder, 100s of amazing designs but just not enough cash. The Rolex will always win, the designes & styles are all dated but have become classics but the quality is as good as it gets, in 30 years time that explorer will still be working and looking good but the Omega will have been put in a draw and forgoten

noel4r

Feb 3, 2005, 08:34 PM

The Rolex will always win, the designes & styles are all dated but have become classics but the quality is as good as it gets, in 30 years time that explorer will still be working and looking good but the Omega will have been put in a draw and forgoten

Are you saying the Omega will be in the drawer because its design will be outdated or because it will not be working as well and hasn’t aged as well as the Rolex?

5300cs

Feb 4, 2005, 01:27 AM

...100s of amazing designs but just not enough cash.

Amen to that. Thank god I'm married, or I'd be wearing my Rolexs to McD's everynight :rolleyes:

... in 30 years time that explorer will still be working and looking good but the Omega will have been put in a draw and forgoten

I'm not sure I can agree with you here: I tend not to forget things I like. Especially things I've paid over $1,500 for

PigDog

Feb 4, 2005, 07:42 AM

The Rolex Explorer is now a classic and has a great following, and it is also a statement of style, as stupid as it goes thats just a fact. The Omega Seamaster is a great well designed and great looking watch and it just does not carry the same statement and never will. But the classic Omega Speedmaster chrono (back dial) does make or carry a cool factor in the watch world. But it is more money than the Seamaster, but then I am biased because I love them all.

gwuMACaddict

Feb 4, 2005, 08:09 AM

5300cs

Feb 4, 2005, 08:56 AM

i am of the opinion that wearing a rolex also makes a statement that 'i'm far too stupid to spend my money on a similarly priced ... i, for one, am never impressed with a rolex on a wrist.

I was too, at first. I dislike all the gold Rolexs. Also the Submariner series, while it has a cool name, it worn by every Tom, Dick & Harry. This is why I like the Explorer I; it has an understated elegance to it.

Today after work I went with my wife to a place that sells used brand goods. They had this Aqua Terra Seamaster (http://www.omega.ch/omega/co_watch?ID=16648&line=null&gen=G&sublineID=16017) on display. New, about $1200. I tried it on, and while it was nice, I also tried on a nearby Explorer I and found it to be lighter and more subtle.

I'm about 75% sure that I want the Explorer, now where am I gonna get the $3,000 to pay for it? Before that though, how am I going to convince the wife? :( :rolleyes:

PigDog

Feb 4, 2005, 08:58 AM

The Rolex explorer is a cool statement, and it is a very tough and resistant watch, the Jaeger LeCoultre, Blancpain and Breguet and also great watches but are more expensive, the Blancpain & Breguet are 2 to 3 times the price of a similar Rolex, the Blancpain Flyback chrono is beautiful but has a fragile movement, I have had this watch and it just cannot stay in the same tough group as Rolex & Omega. Are you going to the beach or snow bording? The Seamaster or Explorer will take any amount of rough treatment and still be working but do not take the chance with the other 3 or you will be in need to fix them!

5300cs

Feb 4, 2005, 09:03 AM

Are you going to the beach or snow bording?

No WORSE, I work in a junior high school. Some people call me crazy for wearing nice watches at school, but my Speedmaster and Kirium are still going strong. Most kids don't know what they are and tap them saying "WAS THIS EXPENSIVE??" until I tell them how much and they stop :D

You seem to be very knowledgeable about watches. I wish I knew as much. Time to hit the books

PigDog

Feb 4, 2005, 09:05 AM

The Explorer and Omega Co axle, I love them both the Omega in your last link is the same one that I have in the store, it is a great watch but do not drop it!

PigDog

Feb 4, 2005, 09:12 AM

I repaired a 1970s Timex of a teacher last year it was his first watch, I fixed it, but it came back again because he had to seperate 2 girls and it lost its crystal.

5300cs

Feb 4, 2005, 09:12 AM

You mean this one (http://www.omega.ch/omega/mu_col_1957)? This is Omega I own now (silver bezel, gray face, winding model) I just dropped it the other day because I'm a f"#$"#$ #%&'%& &%" #$!&$.

It still works though :)

geeman

Feb 4, 2005, 09:24 AM

I bought myself a Cartier Pasha limited-edition (only 700 worldwide) two years ago. Six months ago I had to replace the strap (I only wear leather straps as I hate metal bracelets - too "2nd hand car dealer" for my liking). It cost me 175 bucks!

The Pasha is in for it's first (complimentary) service at the moment. So while I'm waiting I'm wearing a Patek Philippe Calatrava as my "everyday" watch :eek: :eek:
Before getting the Patek I was looking at the IWC Portofino, but in the end I went with the Patek as it's more "steath wealth".

Next one I'm after is a Cartier Divan.

Patek, Cartier, IWC, Glashutte...Ya gotta love 'em

gwuMACaddict

Feb 4, 2005, 09:39 AM

the Jaeger LeCoultre, Blancpain and Breguet and also great watches but are more expensive, the Blancpain & Breguet are 2 to 3 times the price of a similar Rolex, the Blancpain Flyback chrono is beautiful but has a fragile movement, I have had this watch and it just cannot stay in the same tough group as Rolex & Omega.

not if you shop around... i've seen type XX breguets for $3.5k-5k. and have you ever actually *broken* the blancpain? the piguet movement in it is FAR nicer than anything rolex makes, and i've never heard of anyone having trouble with it

gwuMACaddict

Feb 4, 2005, 09:40 AM

glashutte is great value for the money

PigDog

Feb 4, 2005, 07:11 PM

The Omega Speedmaster in your link is the classic Omega, and this model is tough, it can fall and it still works great, I have a 1960 version and it works great and the case is dinged and scratched but it did use the 321 movement, the newer versions are even more resistant.

Yes the Breguet XX is one of my favorites the nicest chrono around and yes there are deals out there, the BlancPain Chrono gave me grief 3 years ago, the auto winding was not working as efficiently as it should and would stop overnight, it was just out of warrantee it was returned back to BlancPain and they said it needed servicing (cleaning) $650 later it was returned to the customer. Not a tough watch and poor customer service.
But it still is a fab looking watch just too delicate in this case, maybe it was a bad one, some movements are just too nice, thin & super high grade but they are fragile.

Drop the Rolex Explorer onto a stone floor yes it might ding or scratch the case or chip the crystal, but it will still work perfectly

PigDog

Feb 5, 2005, 11:51 AM

[QUOTE=geeman]I bought myself a Cartier Pasha limited-edition (only 700 worldwide) two years ago. Six months ago I had to replace the strap (I only wear leather straps as I hate metal bracelets - too "2nd hand car dealer" for my liking). It cost me 175 bucks!
The Pasha is in for it's first (complimentary) service at the moment.

geeman can you tell me more about the service, did it need something?

absolut_mac

Feb 6, 2005, 12:13 AM

Both Breguet and Blancpain are owned by the Swatch group - Omega, Tissot, Longines etc are some of the other brands that they own - and they also own ETA, Nivarox-Far and other component manufacturers too.

Blancpain have received a lot of flack on the various watch forums for their poor customer service. I haven't followed that story of late, so I don't know if Swatch has improved that situation as they promised to do well over 2 years ago.

5300cs

Feb 8, 2005, 07:25 AM

Work is slowing down for me now, which means less money which means no new Omega or Rolex :(

gwuMACaddict

Feb 8, 2005, 07:54 AM

Work is slowing down for me now, which means less money which means no new Omega or Rolex :(

sorry to hear! keep an eye out for a used model in good condition, might make the purchase possible. :)

5300cs

Feb 8, 2005, 08:08 AM

sorry to hear!

Thanks :) Hopefully it's only temporary.

The other day I was this close to getting this Seamaster (http://www.omega.ch/omega/co_watch?ID=16293&line=116&gen=G&sublineID=16286) but ended up dropping it instead. My wife is going to France for a week and she said she'd keep an eye out for me. There's a good chance that an Omega will be cheaper over there than over here. :fingers crossed:

A Louis Vuitton bag in Japan is 40% more expensive than the rest of the world! :eek:

Black&Tan

Feb 28, 2005, 10:49 AM

I was looking at some of the Seiko's again, and the local jeweler wanted quite a bit. I know better than paying retail when the web is handy. Has anyone dealt with these guys:

http://www.princetonwatches.com

Thanks!

Black&Tan

Feb 28, 2005, 12:39 PM

Actually, Amazon has a good/better price. Are there any other good sources?

gwuMACaddict

Feb 28, 2005, 01:47 PM

i try to shy away from online buying with respect to large ticket jewlery related items. i'd rather build a relationship with a jewler in case i ever need service, new items, etc.

that being said, amazon is probably as trustworthy as any of the websites.

have you tried froogle.com (http://www.froogle.com)

5300cs

Mar 26, 2005, 07:10 PM

PigDog

Mar 26, 2005, 10:35 PM

As if not being able to buy a Rolex was bad enough, I just got bad news about my Tag Heuer.

I took it to a shop the other day to get the battery replaced, and it turns out that I left the dead battery in there too long; it leaked out into the body. The shop said I'd have to send it in to get fixed, and it'd cost about $300. :(

Try taking it to a different repair shop that will service it on site, $300 sounds too high, most quartz repairs are in the $75 - $125 range.

CubaTBird

Mar 26, 2005, 11:54 PM

PigDog

Mar 27, 2005, 08:09 AM

hey i have a watch.. its a "swatch" its called "danjaq 007" kinda like james bond.. its the 1969 version.. i got it when swatch was doing that thing with the 007 watch remakes.. it looks like this.. how much is it worth i guess? i got it as a gift

I done a quick search and could not find a price but there is a sure way to get a market price on it, take a actual photo with all its box and papers and put it up for sale on Ebay.

absolut_mac

Mar 27, 2005, 12:24 PM

Try taking it to a different repair shop that will service it on site, $300 sounds too high, most quartz repairs are in the $75 - $125 range.

As a watchmaker I agree 100%.

$300 is way too high unless you're also getting a new crown, dial and hands and a new crystal too.

Service for a quartz watch, including a waterproof test, should run between $100 to $150 and include a 1 year warranty.

gwuMACaddict

Aug 3, 2005, 11:46 AM

figured i'd try to recesitate this thread... i know we have a lot of new members on board lately... due to all the new products, etc...

my latest 'watch related' news is that i have a Hublot (http://www.hublot.ch/) for sale. one of the ones known as the classic models.

Platform

Sep 28, 2005, 08:14 AM

Yes........me...

Love my Seamaster. :D :D

amin

Oct 1, 2005, 09:53 PM

i am of the opinion that wearing a rolex also makes a statement that 'i'm far too stupid to spend my money on a similarly priced jaeger lecoultre or blancpain or breguet'

every watch makes a different statement to different people. i, for one, am never impressed with a rolex on a wrist.
I think it's unfair to suggest that wearing a Rolex makes one appear stupid. Many people, myself included, are not that into watches but are given a Rolex as a gift. Your not being impressed I can understand - I don't find *any* watches to be very impressive - but thinking its a sign of stupidity? I think that's pretty arrogant.

gwuMACaddict

Oct 2, 2005, 01:25 AM

fair enough, i should have said 'buying'- not wearing.

5300cs

Oct 10, 2005, 01:43 AM

I was in Guam over the weekend and got on of these: http://www.omegawatches.com/index.php?id=281&no_cache=1

What a gorgeous watch. No need for a Rolex for me ;)

mikez97

Oct 19, 2006, 02:46 PM

I too enjoy wearing a luxury watch. I can't call myself a collector but I have an everyday watch and another for going out. My everyday watch is a Rolex Daytona and it has held up well for over twenty years. My more dressy watch I got from my dad. It is a 1950's era LeCoultre that has a winding alarm. Very cool.

quigleybc

Oct 19, 2006, 03:59 PM

I have been collecting fine watches for going on 5 years now. Just wondering if anyone else got as exicted about fine watches as i do?

:)

If you dig watches, Check Out St. Moritz (http://www.st-moritz.com/) watches, they're really sweet.

diehldun

Oct 19, 2006, 10:48 PM

My favorites are Swatches. They (the Irony/metal ones, not the plastic ones) look so avant-garde and attractive for their price. Everytime I go to Europe, I end up bringing one home. The one I'm using right now is actually about four years old, but still looks new in design, and perfectly reliable!

I'm kind of suprised how few Swatches I see in America. But then again, not too many high-schoolers even wear watches nowadays... :(

Chip NoVaMac

Nov 26, 2006, 08:28 PM

Talk about the energizer bunny of threads!

I have become a fan of the Android watches (http://www.android-usa.com/). They are affordable and different looking.

So far I have the Mystique in both the silver and black face (have the orange face on order); the Ultra in a blue face (with the black and green faces on order); and thinking of ordering the Dominator (black face), and the Alien (black face).

I wish I could justify the Hamilton X-01 watch (http://dtti.wordpress.com/2006/10/10/hamilton-x-01-reinterpretation-of-space-odyssey-2001-watch/) See the attached picture: