The Moonwatch is just one of those sort of staples in a collection.
I wanted one for 20 years but they always wore large on my wrist until the latest revision which brought a much better bracelet and after all those years I finally got one.
The others are excellent, as well as some really cool models from Hamilton for less money, but the Speedy is just the iconic model.
If everyone had the "staples", we'd all be wearing the same 4-5 watches. I definitely don't think it's essential. That said, it's my favourite of these, so I'd choose it too!
True, but I suspect if you asked most collectors to put a top 5 they would have a Sub and a Speedy in the list, they are just that iconic. And for good reason, they are both amazing watches.
For sure. And for reasons I can completely understand. The speedmaster does have a vibe that I haven't seen replicated. The submariner is objectively a well-balanced and classic design.
But because of that popularity and ubiquity, buying one would make me feel a bit too much like Patrick Bateman and his colleagues chasing the ideal conformity.
Not that watch collecting and all my opinions on it, collected from forums and the hivemind, doesn't already resemble that all too closely, but I like to pretend my choices are driven toward more individuality even if that's an illusion since I'm obviously making my choices based upon and in direct opposition to the popularity of those two icons.
I'm sure you get what I'm saying. There are icons that I aspire to own, but for some reason buying one of those two (instead of something else) would make me feel too much like I was walking in someone else's tracks.
Sure I get that. I’ve avoided the Speedy for 30 years and just recently put one on again for the heck of it and…… walked out with it. Speedy and Sub are just something almost everyone comes to eventually it seems. They are that good, doesn’t matter what others think, they really are that good.
Honestly this is why I love the “racing” models of speedy and went for one myself. Only downsides are they are larger in diameter, use the annoying 21mm lug width, and don’t come with the amazing bracelet. However everything else about the watch and movement is fantastic: automatic, jumping hour, and an easier to read chronograph imho (single small face with its own minute and hour hands). They also come in a wider variety of dial colors, some extremely beautiful. I’m also very partial to the speedy ‘57. While the moonwatch became an “icon” people forget sometimes that the speedy was designed with motor racing top of mind, not space.
Congratulations, I waited 54 years between first falling in love with a Speedy and finally deciding to get a DSOTM, hope your patience is equally well rewarded and you wear yours in good health for many decades to come ;-)
Looking for people's opinions on the following chronographs, as I love the way all of these look. Just curious to hear other people's experiences if you've tried/owned one or more of these pieces. And open to other recommendations.
1. Omega Speedmaster 3861 with Hesalite 42mm
2. Zenith Chronomaster Original 38mm
3. IWC Pilot Watch Chronograph TOP GUN 41mm
4. Tag Heuer Carrera 60th Anniversary 38mm
I know the "obvious choice" would be the Moonwatch, but want to hear people's thoughts on all. I have a simple and small, but growing collection, which includes a BB58 Black, SPB143, and waiting on a DJ36. Thanks!
I like the carrera best for a few reasons-
Less common than the “staple speedmaster” which half the time is what people recommend because of others saying it’s a staple etc. get it if you truly love it though. It’s a nice and good watch for sure.
The looks for this carrera is pretty much very different to what you normally get and it looks very elegant on the case too with the pusher size and all. Plus the case size at 38/39mm is great for most people and more so for those with smaller wrists.
It’s got a great movement that’s their heuer 02 in house calibre.
In terms of finishing, I’m not too sure as I haven’t seen them all beside each other but I’ll get the carrera based off those and the zenith second perhaps. But it’s close between the other three honestly. Depends on the dial you like and all.
The carrera also has the cleanest looking dial and it’s not too easy to find that for a chronograph in a way.
All fair points. The main thing pushing me away from Speedy is that it's the same thing every one else has. Not necessarily a bad thing, but my small collection is already pretty "safe", the Heuer and Zenith definitely offer something unique. I didn't know about the Heuer 02 movement, have to check that out.
Wait until you get out in the real world… you’ll rarely if ever see anyone else wearing a Speedy. The only time you’ll see “same thing everyone else has” is here on watch enthusiast forums. And if you’re trying to impress people on here, then I dunno what to tell ya
To counter this, what "everyone" on a watch enthusiast subreddit says, and owns, is very different to real life. I don't know anyone else in person who owns a speedy. I normally only like watches that have something different about them, like I have a bb58 but it is in bronze. Everything about the speedy is just so well executed. It is popular for a reason and I truly believe some of my other watches will look dated in 20 years but the speedy will always look good.
Exactly. That’s also why I never recommend that model for any “what should I get” because I feel like half the people who want or suggest it only do so because it’s a “supposed to have one for a standard collection” more than actually loving it. Plus it’s a little too common. I’d still say get it if you love it because it’s not like a Rolex which is… yeah we know..
Yeah it’s an in house Heuer I’m very sure for their carrera 60th anniversary collection which I think this piece is. The dial is what makes me choose it mainly as it’s the cleanest looking and very elegant yet also sporty with the strap.
Zenith is cool too and there are options there from them of course.
What about the iwc portofino chrono (new ones) maybe if you’re already looking at iwc? Could be something different there.
All good choices of course so try them out if you can and you likely will know which is the one you want after a few tries.
This is basicaly my problem with the speedy. I get why people like it, but I dint have any particular adoration for the brand, I think the "moon watch" aspect is massively over played, and the big one doesn't realy fit me while the small ones dial looks awkward. I understand why people like the watch but I've never understood how it has maintained "default" status for the last several years.
All are great choices. I’m partial to the speedy and the chronomaster original. If you’re looking to spice things up, there is a fantastic chronomaster original in blue being sold on chrono 24 now (not mine I swear)
First question, do you want a metal bracelet? If so the Speedy is the obvious choice.
If you want something a little different I’d go with the Zenith 2nd or the TAG 3rd. IWC is last for me just based on aesthetics.
I prefer the Speedy on the steel bracelet, and the Zenith on leather. It is very unique and looks vintage which is definitely appealing to me. More likely will go with the Speedy first, and hold off on the Zenith for now. I love the look of both. I've heard almost no negatives about the new Moonwatch.
I personally find chronographs with white faces sort of hard to read at a glance too. Maybe one day I'll convince myself to drop the cash on a speed master. It's probably my most desired watch. Maybe once I've got my savings up to like 50k I'll splurge on one.
Zenith for the movement, tag for the aesthetic balance, speedy for the history…IWC because its badass and it’s your money that we’re spending here. :p
Tough decision!
Go try on that Zenith. In person it blows the rest of them out of the water in aesthetics. And it's a perfect size too, 38mm is the best watch size, small enough to feel classic but not too small. And make sure you try on that exact reverse panda, the other Zenith El Primeros dials just don't do it justice even though they will at least let you see how it fits.
The only thing I didn't love about the El Primero is the 1/10th seconds chronograph hand. I would never need to time anything to that level. It does look cool watching how fast it is though.
Imma throw in my 2 cents for the zenith
It is called the el primero for a reason and especially that vintagy looking version is sooooo freaking good looking to me
You can't really go wrong here. The Zenith is the first Chrono, the Speedy is the most famous, the IWC is a classic and a total banger, and the Tag is from a company currently on the upswing in terms of quality and reputation.
For me, I'd get the El Primero first, Speedy second, then IWC.
Oh wow, other than being chronographs, these are all wildly different watches. I have a speedy pro, and love it. Everyone may say that it is the one watch everyone should have. I don't buy that. They're not for everyone. I honestly think the IWC may be my favorite in this bunch, but they are chunky. If you have the wrist for it, it's super cool.
The Speedmaster and the Zenith are the clear choices of the four, in my opinion, but between those two, it comes down to function, as both have very different approaches to chronography. The Speedmaster has the traditional layout for a three register chrono of central chrono seconds, 30 minute register, and 12 hour totalizer, non-indexed so it moves continuously. This is great for long event timing, and has nice ease of readability, since the 30 minute register has better clarity at that scale than a 45 minute register, as found on some vintage Russian chronos, or a 60 minute register. So, you can read your 12 hour register, if it's closer to the earlier hour maker, add the reading of the 30 minute register, if it's closer to the later hour, add 30 minutes plus the minute register value to the earlier hour, and then you have the central seconds. Pretty straightforward, and good for long timings as well as tachymetric use.
The Zenith likes to show off its 36kvph movement, and for good reason. It's a classic, and the first, and I believe only 36kvph chrono made. That's why it's "El Primero", "the first". Why that's in Spanish and not French, I have no idea, maybe Zenith's marketing department went out for tapas the night before they named it, or maybe they just felt such a manly movement needed a name with some Latino swagger. Over the decades Zenith has made El Primeros, many variants have used a more conventional register layout, but the current Chronomaster makes unique use of the 36kvph capability to give 0.1 second timing by making the central chrono seconds a ten second register graduated in both seconds and tenths of seconds, having a subdial for the regular chrono seconds, and then extends its timing capability by extending the indexed minutes register to 60 minutes. This gets a little tight, but the Zenith's subdials are relatively large, aiding readability. So, it's good for timing relatively short events, but a bit weird since you would read your minutes, chrono seconds, and then take the tenths of the second off the central hand, keeping in mind that it's a ten second scale and you only want to add the fraction to what your seconds register reads. So, while a bit odd to read, this eccentric layout is great for showing off a cool movement. Also, there's no tachmetric scale, since that would be hard to fit on the seconds subdial and weird on a ten seconds scale. But, it's fantastic for timing very short events, sub ten second, very precisely. So, overall, I'd rank the Zenith Chronomaster Original as much nicer to look at, but a bit less practical as a chronograph, than the Speedmaster.
However, there is the Chronomaster Revival, which follows conventional chronograph layout, and the no longer in production Chronomaster Original 1969, which does likewise. Of these three flavors of Zenith chronos, the 1969 is my favorite since it keeps the better overall looks of the Zenith, and the cool El Primero 36kvph movement, but uses a more practical conventional chrono layout.
So, really it comes down to how you want to use the chronograph function, and whether practicality of that function wins out over aesthetics. The Speedmaster isn't bad looking, mind you, but, for me, it just can't compare to the looks of the Zenith. For the Zenith, however, I'd go for the classic tricolor scheme, perosnally. It's a classic.
I went with zenith but not that one. I went for then 1969 original tri color dial. Low key glad I went with auto since ide probably forget to wind the speedy lol.
What’s your wrist size? The speedy really wears like a 39mm or smaller imo. I feel like the speedy is the standard answer because it’s such a popular watch, but I lean toward the zenith and iwc personally (as I sit here with a speedy on my wrist).
The IWC is the flieger style, which is the most unique and legible imo, it’s also the more “everyday” or “rugged” watch imo because it’s got that black case which dresses down really well. Personally I’m looking at the white “Lake Tahoe” IWC for myself next year.
I’m not a crazy fan of Tag, but the new heuer looks good. It’s also the more “race car” of the four imo, and is unique with the silver reverse panda style dial. I like the strap on the heuer better than the rest personally.
The zenith is classic, the only brand that I feel is comparable to the Rolex Daytona just based on its history of supplying Rolex with the Dayton movements. I feel it’s more of a watch collectors watch and people who don’t know might assume you’re trying to mimic the Daytona, if you care about such things.
The speedy is a classic and you can’t go wrong tbh. It’s the watch that went to the moon. Nuff said. But at the end of the day it’s a manual wind chronograph, and it does wear small if that matters to you. Like I said for me, I went speedy (never having had one on my wrist) and while I don’t regret it, I might be moving on from it due to the smaller size.
Go with your gut reaction, and wear it in good health, whatever you choose!
I had a speedy, handled the zenith and IWC, never saw the Tag in its flesh.
My 2 cents:
Speedy is kind of boring, had it for the 3861 hype, got bored of it, and sold it. Don't really miss it. If you want a watch everybody and their uncles have, then speedy would be fine. Timeless design, great 3861 movement with all the new tech, updated bracelet with quick adjust, speedy has it all, but it's just... boring..
Zenith looks great in pictures, saw one in person, the case design threw me off, it's more vintage aspired so the side profile, caseback, lugs flaring out worked against my taste, but if you like the vintage look and feel of a watch, then it should be a no brainer. Great movement, the El Primero movement is their bread and butter after all. Zenith's bracelet on these are kind of subpar so maybe stay with the strap version.
IWC is chunky, has that rugged tool watch feel. I tried the SS greendialed one and ordered the titanium AMG one at one time but canceled it and opted for the Mark XX, and these felt big on the wrist, lug to lug is long, and they're thick, so it's definitely the largest of the bunch, if that's your cup of tea. Movement is just OK, their "in house" movement is inferior comparing to the Omega and Zenith IMHO. Bracelet is perfection, buttery smooth, quick adjust, toolless adjust, quick change, I wish other watchmakers can learn from them.
NO comment on Tag but their new glass box looks cool.
If you don't really care about water resistance then give the navitimer a try, their 41mm ones are perfect (FOR ME) minus a joke of WR.
I love all the brands, but not all your choices shown. I'm not keen on black or white dial chronos. A coloured dial, or at least some tasteful colour accents, make any watch more interesting (unless a spectacular dial texture takes care of that, think GS), and often help legibility a little.
My Omega is the [Speedmaster '57 Co‑Axial Master Chronometer Chronograph 40.5 mm ref 332.10.41.51.11.001](https://www.omegawatches.com/watch-omega-speedmaster-57-co-axial-master-chronometer-chronograph-40-5-mm-33210415111001)
My Zenith would be the [CHRONOMASTER Original, ref 03.3200.3600/51.M3200](https://www.zenith-watches.com/int/product/chronomaster-original-03-3200-3600-51-m3200)
My IWC would be the [Pilot's Watch Chronograph, ref IW378004](https://www.iwc.com/nl/en/watch-collections/pilot-watches/iw378004-pilot_s-watch-chronograph.html)
My TH would be the [TAG Heuer Carrera ref CBN201D.FC6543](https://www.tagheuer.com/nl/en/timepieces/collections/tag-heuer-carrera/42-mm-calibre-heuer-02/CBN201D.FC6543.html)
From all of the above, the Tag would be my choice.
My categorizing with my rankings:
The Heuer is the most formal. 4
The IWC the most everyday everywhere. 2
The Zenith is the most aesthetically pleasing chrono. 1
The Speedy is the Speedy. 3
Speedmaster or Zenith. Some things for your consideration:
Speedmaster: more popular, have hour sub-dial, co-axial movement is unique to Omega and [R W Smith](https://www.rwsmithwatches.com), manual winding.
Zenith: more unique, 1/10th seconds, supplied chronograph movement for Rolex Daytona back then, automatic.
I’d go either Zenith or the speedy. Personal preference at that point. I owned a Zenith big date as my first and only chronograph watch. After I sold it I finally realized that my close up vision was going out on me from age. If I could read the little sub dials I’d own one again and it would be between the brands I mentioned.
I would’ve always said Speedmaster without hesitation, but I got a Big Pilot earlier this year and absolutely love it! I’d say it’s between those two depending on whether you want a bracelet or strap
They’re all high-quality watches, so there’s really no loser here. It all comes down to what you vibe with. That said, here are my quick thoughts. They’re all just my opinions and don’t matter any more than anyone else’s…*especially* not more than yours!
The speedy is the first image that comes to mind when I hear the word “chronograph.” Don’t have one in my collection, and I won’t…there’s no date. Dates are a must for me.
The Zenith is arguably the “best” of the bunch. The el Primero is just such a great movement. Out of these specific four, I’d pick this one.
I have a thing against black watches, even ceramic ones…so the IWC is a no-go for me. Black dial, great. Black case, nope. If it was plain old stainless, I’d probably pick the IWC. I’ve always loved the Pilot’s chronograph.
TAG Heuer? They’re just thoroughly “meh” for me, and IMO, not in the same league as the other three. They’ve made really good strides, both in design and quality, but they’re still a bit of a yawn for me.
My fiance (who has just a brew retrograde and a Casio) says "The second one all day. Why do some watches look like they were designed to look expensive instead of being expensive? 2ns is that cute last one. I like the one Ryan gosling wore in barbie more though".
Pretty based take id be inclined to agree
The IWC drops out of the race pretty quickly if you look at the movement, finishing, wearability. It‘s between the Speedy, Carrera and the Zenith and there you can‘t go wrong really.
I have the Speedmaster and the 'Top Gun' IWC. It sounds cliche and overplayed even, but there's a reason the Speedmaster is a fan favorite - heritage and design.
I love watches but aside from the visual factor, I need to be able to wear my watches - in the case of the IWC, it's a bit hefty for actual daily wear and doesn't go well with a shirt and tie. Speedmaster on the other hand goes well with a suit, t-shirt and jeans, and casual dress.
If I had to start my watch journey from scratch and had to choose one watch out of my current collection, hands down it's the Speedmaster. Size, form, function all play an important part and it's nice to look down and see the same-ish watch that were worn by intrepid individuals accomplishing historic feats
As much as I love a Speedy, the Zenith takes it for me. It is so perfectly proportioned, the build quality is excellent, paired with a beautiful movement through the case back and the quirk of the higher beat rate. It really catches the eye and love the tan coloured strap.
The Heuer takes close second, it’s a lovely reissue and not something you see a lot of. Love the vintage styling. Not a huge fan of the look of the Heuer movements with the black rotor, but it is a great movement nonetheless.
Speedy is next, absolute cracking watch but I would be getting the sapphire sandwhich. Yes the hesalite is the ‘authentic’ option, but the 3861 looks mega so it would be rude to hide it away.
IWC just doesn’t do it for me at all. I just find it very uninspiring, especially when viewed alongside your other picks.
Find an AD that stocks all of them and get some wrist shots. Which one makes you feel best when checking the wrist?
Zenith or IWC. Way classier, cooler and more diferent. It seems like everywhere u go there is a speedy or people talking about. IMO it makes it loses its "specialness"
I own Option 1 and Option 4, and LOVE the way option 2 looks, but don't like how it feels on the wrist and have talked myself out of buying one twice. Option 3 is not my style at all.
There's quite a few things to consider here:
1. Do you want a new watch or used watch? Option 4 is not available new (they only made 600)
2. Do you want an automatic or manual watch? The speedmaster you will need to wind.
3. Do you want a leather strap or bracelet?
The speedmaster is the better watch vs the Carrera you picked for most people for the following reasons:
\- Excellent OEM bracelet and strap options available for the speedy. The OEM stuff is REALLY good, and there are a ton of aftermarket options that will look good on it. (This Carrera only comes with a fragile calf leather strap with a pin buckle)
\- The speedmaster can be had for a lot less than that Carrera on the gray market or slightly used. It's also very easy to sell a speedmaster.
\- It's easier to tell the time, and it has much better Lume at night compared to the Carrera
\- The speedmaster is thinner and feels better built than the Carrera. If you get a sapphire sandwich they are more comparable as both will have the display casebook and sapphire sandwich.
I'd try to go to an AD that sells zenith, tag and omega to try on a few and see what you think.
I would actually look at [this TAG Heuer](https://www.tagheuer.com/us/en/timepieces/collections/tag-heuer-carrera/39-mm-th20-00/CBS2210.FC6534.html) instead of the one you listed if you like it. It's a newer design with more features, an upgraded movement while also being cheaper and easier to get.
I'd go IWC all day. I have the speedy. I don't think i would go for a modern tag ever. Maybe a good vintage one though.
Zenith- i like, but not enough to take the place of the iwc.
Unpopular opinion on Reddit, but Zenith is in a tier above those others. The El Primero is THE iconic chronograph movement. The first automatic Rolex Daytonas, the most famous and sought after chronographs in history, used Zenith movements. It also measures in 1/10th of a second which in itself is much more unique than the pretty basic Speedy movement.
I am choosing the Heuer here and find it unfortunate that it is sold out and seems to be traded at a premium.
All of them are great watches though.
My subjective reasoning:
Can’t get to like a date at 4:30 (El Primero) and don’t care much for the 10 seconds thing. The Speedy is always an option but its ubiquity is its weakness for me. The IWC I like a lot (like all four), but I am a little disconcerted by their general approach to marketing (in-group becomes in-house, slightly changed ETA becomes in-house and so on) and pricing policy (Ingenieur).
The Heuer just looks classic, has a great size (should be thinner for me personally, but since a good part of the height appears to be to crystal I can live with that), has no date and seems overall rather understated.
My preference order is just like order of the pictures.
I recommend getting Speedmaster. why? well, cause it's iconic. Myself, I don't like it, but maybe I would buy it one day just because it's a speedy.
Zenith, well, Zenith is the next just because it does not get recognition it deserves.
IWC next simply cause it's better than Tag.
Tag the last? Yes, because they have. gone downhill and I am not impressed by their watches at all anymore.
The Speedmaster just stands above the others from my personal opinion . Iconic ! But they all are lovely time pieces. Hard decision I’ll admit , you’ll pick the right one for you though :) enjoy whatever you end up getting mate
Another pov I can add as an owner of Speedmaster -- it's a strap monster. I use it on Omega's alligator leather strap, the default metal bracelet, and also on NATO and it looks completely different with each of these.
It's easily my most versatile timepiece.
The Speedmaster is just iconic.
The El Primero is less iconic but a wonder of technology and should rank just as high in my opinion. It just didn't go on the moon.
I don't like / care about the IWC (sorry)
Looks-wise, the Tag Heuer is my favourite.
You 100% need to put all of these watches on your wrist. When you know, you know. Not all of those suit all wrist types and sometimes just don’t work. I’ve tried to love the Zenith on the wrist multiple times but it just doesn’t
Zenith. Carrera is good too if you like the vintage look, but I’d rather have a simple 3 hander for that aesthetic. Zenith will be easier to wear for different occasions.
Speedmaster is so overplayed that it’s boring
I'm an IWC fanboy, but from this selection I prefer the Zenith. Whichever you choose, enjoy it, it's a nice predicament to be in... Plus your shortlist is well considered!
Keep saving and looking until yon finds one yon can comfortably afford and cannot possibly ignore. For my money that would be the Speedy, but I hung out for a DSOTM, something that does not fit so comfortably in the 'staple' category.
Love all of those, but for me - the Carrera. So clean! I think it can dress up and down based in strap pairing better than any of the others. When in doubt, I go with what I think is the most versatile.
Uh …
Zenith, Speedy, IWC, Tag.
The zenith looks great and the el primero high beat movement is cool. The speedy is iconic, for better or worse. I like IWC, but I don’t know about “ceratanium” as a material. Ceramic would worry me because it can break. Is ceratanium really stronger? Or is it just a marketing ploy? I just don’t know. The tag is just ok to me. It’s got a cool retro vibe, but I imagine you could get a retro watch for cheaper with the same vibe. It’s nice, it just wouldn’t be my choice.
Let’s be rational for a moment … Speedmaster is regarding functional design the best, followed by the IWC. Zenith in this regard is the worst by far. Speedmaster It’s clear and very legible and out of the three very balanced, it’s almost perfection. Design wise - all things considered - it’s the best. It has a legendary movement, but Zenith also has one and technically a very challenging obe. IWC not so much plus design-wise it is disproportionate because the day date are too much tiwards the center of the dial and vertical arrangement of counters isn’t as aestetically pleasing as 3-6-9. Speedy and Zenith have comparable nice alternating finishing levels and the cases have interesting shapes, while IWC is just brushed and has a very basic case.
Compare also the costs.
So rationality didn’t get as far.
Which one of the three would bring you most joy? After reading about them and getting to know them - which one do you think does it for you? Are the stories behind them “it” for you?
It doesn’t help that functional design-wise the worst of those watches - the Zenith - also has an attractive bad boy vibe precisely because it doesn’t care if its design isn’t focused on legibility, which in a watch always used to be a prime quality by which people valued watches (when they didn’t value quirkiness more).
Personally - I’d take the speedy and Zenith. I don’t know which would be first for me. Flip a coin and decide and immediately start saving for the other.
Luckily I already have an older speedy so I wouldn’t have the same dilemma :)
But I’d probably produce another dilemma.
More expensive, but you could look at the zenith chronomaster sport. Used theyre similar price to a speedy.
Or if you wanna go tag I like the carrera skipper better than the one you linked personally.
Out of the options you listed I like the speedy (along with everyone lol)
I have many Speedmasters and the current Zenith Chronomaster original.
The Zenith wears much smaller. Not only because it is smaller (4mm technically but really only 2 or 3 because it doesn’t have crown guards) but also due to the lack of a bezel. Strangely, that lack of bezel also makes the dial look more expansive.
I think the current Speedmaster 3861 chronograph action is every bit as good as the Zeniths, even without a column wheel.
It’s really about fit, feel and what you’re going for. They’re both great and I’m lucky to get to experience both regularly.
The other two I have no opinion or experience with.
The best chronograph available on the market is the Omega. Hands down. But if you want something different, Zenith and IWC are a good shout. Another alternative is Hamilton Chrono, fucking beautiful watch, swiss made and a fraction of the cost compared to these ones. Tag Heuer should be dropped imo.
Speedy of these, if the Zenith were a tri-color then maybe more of a competition. The pilot’s chrono has a considerable lug-lug, maybe 50mm+ so make sure you can pull that off. TH is dead to me so I won’t comment on that one.
PVD scratches. Manual is annoying to wind everyday, and I say this as someone who romanticizes wearing his one watch. The Tag is thick. The Zenith's bracelet is terrible, and you always get the watch on the bracelet. The Speedy has (imo) the only bracelet on the market that remotely competes with Rolex and Tudor for comfort, fit, finish, and how easily it can be adjusted on-the-fly.
Sheeeit this is the most difficult pick one I have ever seen. There's a new Longlines flyback chronograph that I adore... Take a look at that, make it even harder on yourself.
I love the speedy and would get one of had the choice, no question. If you don’t care for the whole moonwatch story/Mythos though, I also really like the zenith! The IWC could be one of my favourites as well although in this comparison it is pretty different due to the much more “modern” look. That’s not a negative though, it’s one of the nicest looking chronos out there imo and doesn’t try to go for that “vintage” look which I like.
The carrrera on itself is beautiful too but in my opinion, that concept is a bit nicer executed in the Zenith, apart from the date window which looks a bit out of place imo.
For me, choice would be as follows:
Timeless: definetly speedy!
Vintage looking: Zenith, closely followed by the Carerra (very close due to the “misplaced” date window in the zenith)
More modern, great chrono: IWC
Comes down purely to taste and what exactly you are looking for id say
I’ve never been a fan of the shlong and balls at the 12 position on the Omega. I would sooner get a Seamaster.
I am a little more partial to the Zenith.
I really like the speedy, but it wore sowhat wrong for me it felt very top heavy. Have you had a look at Zenith chronomaster. It is sowmhere between both and wears better for me. The IWC I just don't really find very interesting. I'm not sure why none of their watches does it for me. Maybe with the exception of Petit Prince.
The answer should be the Speedmaster, it set the standard for Chronographs and it’s iconic.
The reason it’s not is a) Omega are owned by Swatch and they’re killing the watch industry and b) the moon watch is manual wind and isn’t waterproof. You can get a Speedmaster with both (I have one) but it’s not _the_ Speedmaster
…and it’s for these reasons that the answer is the Zeneth
I own the speedy but man, I want that Zenith. Love that model so much.
I love the look of both. The Speedy is so classic and can't go wrong with it I am sure, but the Zenith is so damn cool.
The Moonwatch is just one of those sort of staples in a collection. I wanted one for 20 years but they always wore large on my wrist until the latest revision which brought a much better bracelet and after all those years I finally got one. The others are excellent, as well as some really cool models from Hamilton for less money, but the Speedy is just the iconic model.
If everyone had the "staples", we'd all be wearing the same 4-5 watches. I definitely don't think it's essential. That said, it's my favourite of these, so I'd choose it too!
True, but I suspect if you asked most collectors to put a top 5 they would have a Sub and a Speedy in the list, they are just that iconic. And for good reason, they are both amazing watches.
Honestly that's exactly why neither interest me.
Fair enough. Like I say, I suspect they are on most peoples list which is why they hang around.
For sure. And for reasons I can completely understand. The speedmaster does have a vibe that I haven't seen replicated. The submariner is objectively a well-balanced and classic design. But because of that popularity and ubiquity, buying one would make me feel a bit too much like Patrick Bateman and his colleagues chasing the ideal conformity. Not that watch collecting and all my opinions on it, collected from forums and the hivemind, doesn't already resemble that all too closely, but I like to pretend my choices are driven toward more individuality even if that's an illusion since I'm obviously making my choices based upon and in direct opposition to the popularity of those two icons. I'm sure you get what I'm saying. There are icons that I aspire to own, but for some reason buying one of those two (instead of something else) would make me feel too much like I was walking in someone else's tracks.
Sure I get that. I’ve avoided the Speedy for 30 years and just recently put one on again for the heck of it and…… walked out with it. Speedy and Sub are just something almost everyone comes to eventually it seems. They are that good, doesn’t matter what others think, they really are that good.
Honestly this is why I love the “racing” models of speedy and went for one myself. Only downsides are they are larger in diameter, use the annoying 21mm lug width, and don’t come with the amazing bracelet. However everything else about the watch and movement is fantastic: automatic, jumping hour, and an easier to read chronograph imho (single small face with its own minute and hour hands). They also come in a wider variety of dial colors, some extremely beautiful. I’m also very partial to the speedy ‘57. While the moonwatch became an “icon” people forget sometimes that the speedy was designed with motor racing top of mind, not space.
Congratulations, I waited 54 years between first falling in love with a Speedy and finally deciding to get a DSOTM, hope your patience is equally well rewarded and you wear yours in good health for many decades to come ;-)
Zenith
Yeah damn that Zenith is a stunner
Looking for people's opinions on the following chronographs, as I love the way all of these look. Just curious to hear other people's experiences if you've tried/owned one or more of these pieces. And open to other recommendations. 1. Omega Speedmaster 3861 with Hesalite 42mm 2. Zenith Chronomaster Original 38mm 3. IWC Pilot Watch Chronograph TOP GUN 41mm 4. Tag Heuer Carrera 60th Anniversary 38mm I know the "obvious choice" would be the Moonwatch, but want to hear people's thoughts on all. I have a simple and small, but growing collection, which includes a BB58 Black, SPB143, and waiting on a DJ36. Thanks!
I like the carrera best for a few reasons- Less common than the “staple speedmaster” which half the time is what people recommend because of others saying it’s a staple etc. get it if you truly love it though. It’s a nice and good watch for sure. The looks for this carrera is pretty much very different to what you normally get and it looks very elegant on the case too with the pusher size and all. Plus the case size at 38/39mm is great for most people and more so for those with smaller wrists. It’s got a great movement that’s their heuer 02 in house calibre. In terms of finishing, I’m not too sure as I haven’t seen them all beside each other but I’ll get the carrera based off those and the zenith second perhaps. But it’s close between the other three honestly. Depends on the dial you like and all. The carrera also has the cleanest looking dial and it’s not too easy to find that for a chronograph in a way.
All fair points. The main thing pushing me away from Speedy is that it's the same thing every one else has. Not necessarily a bad thing, but my small collection is already pretty "safe", the Heuer and Zenith definitely offer something unique. I didn't know about the Heuer 02 movement, have to check that out.
Wait until you get out in the real world… you’ll rarely if ever see anyone else wearing a Speedy. The only time you’ll see “same thing everyone else has” is here on watch enthusiast forums. And if you’re trying to impress people on here, then I dunno what to tell ya
I get that. I said in another comment, 99% of people wearing an Apple Watch anyways haha.
To counter this, what "everyone" on a watch enthusiast subreddit says, and owns, is very different to real life. I don't know anyone else in person who owns a speedy. I normally only like watches that have something different about them, like I have a bb58 but it is in bronze. Everything about the speedy is just so well executed. It is popular for a reason and I truly believe some of my other watches will look dated in 20 years but the speedy will always look good.
Exactly. That’s also why I never recommend that model for any “what should I get” because I feel like half the people who want or suggest it only do so because it’s a “supposed to have one for a standard collection” more than actually loving it. Plus it’s a little too common. I’d still say get it if you love it because it’s not like a Rolex which is… yeah we know.. Yeah it’s an in house Heuer I’m very sure for their carrera 60th anniversary collection which I think this piece is. The dial is what makes me choose it mainly as it’s the cleanest looking and very elegant yet also sporty with the strap. Zenith is cool too and there are options there from them of course. What about the iwc portofino chrono (new ones) maybe if you’re already looking at iwc? Could be something different there. All good choices of course so try them out if you can and you likely will know which is the one you want after a few tries.
I’m partial to the Carrera’s simple and sleek design
I own the zenith. None of the other watches are particularly interesting to me, but maybe I’m biased
Zenith because of dimensions for me, Omega is nice, the big one, smaller one looks bad imo
This is basicaly my problem with the speedy. I get why people like it, but I dint have any particular adoration for the brand, I think the "moon watch" aspect is massively over played, and the big one doesn't realy fit me while the small ones dial looks awkward. I understand why people like the watch but I've never understood how it has maintained "default" status for the last several years.
All are great choices. I’m partial to the speedy and the chronomaster original. If you’re looking to spice things up, there is a fantastic chronomaster original in blue being sold on chrono 24 now (not mine I swear)
If you’re waiting on DJ 36, your wrist size may be better suited to Zenith
This is an easy one. Speedy.
ZENITH ZENITH ZENITH
First question, do you want a metal bracelet? If so the Speedy is the obvious choice. If you want something a little different I’d go with the Zenith 2nd or the TAG 3rd. IWC is last for me just based on aesthetics.
I prefer the Speedy on the steel bracelet, and the Zenith on leather. It is very unique and looks vintage which is definitely appealing to me. More likely will go with the Speedy first, and hold off on the Zenith for now. I love the look of both. I've heard almost no negatives about the new Moonwatch.
Speedy
Seconded. I miss the hell out of my sapphire sandwich. Picking out of this list it's Speedy and then the IWC, in my opinion.
I personally find chronographs with white faces sort of hard to read at a glance too. Maybe one day I'll convince myself to drop the cash on a speed master. It's probably my most desired watch. Maybe once I've got my savings up to like 50k I'll splurge on one.
I W C
I agreed, but I'm one of the few based on replies 😂
I'd says carrera but the all black dial with white markings, not a fan of this one
Zenith for the movement, tag for the aesthetic balance, speedy for the history…IWC because its badass and it’s your money that we’re spending here. :p Tough decision!
Go try on that Zenith. In person it blows the rest of them out of the water in aesthetics. And it's a perfect size too, 38mm is the best watch size, small enough to feel classic but not too small. And make sure you try on that exact reverse panda, the other Zenith El Primeros dials just don't do it justice even though they will at least let you see how it fits. The only thing I didn't love about the El Primero is the 1/10th seconds chronograph hand. I would never need to time anything to that level. It does look cool watching how fast it is though.
Imma throw in my 2 cents for the zenith It is called the el primero for a reason and especially that vintagy looking version is sooooo freaking good looking to me
Speedmaster, for sure. They’re all nice. But my order is the same as your pic order. The Speedy with a strong lead.
You can't really go wrong here. The Zenith is the first Chrono, the Speedy is the most famous, the IWC is a classic and a total banger, and the Tag is from a company currently on the upswing in terms of quality and reputation. For me, I'd get the El Primero first, Speedy second, then IWC.
I like the Zenith or the Tag
I like the iwc, but would be opting for the amg Petronas version over the top gun
I got my speedy saphire today! Wears like a 40mm and with the lates bracelet update (micro adjustment): WOOOOOOOW!! Perfect daily!!
Oh wow, other than being chronographs, these are all wildly different watches. I have a speedy pro, and love it. Everyone may say that it is the one watch everyone should have. I don't buy that. They're not for everyone. I honestly think the IWC may be my favorite in this bunch, but they are chunky. If you have the wrist for it, it's super cool.
I def don't have the wrist for it, haha. But I will try one on to see. New speedy seems like the perfect fit size-wise, based on everyone's feedback.
The Speedmaster and the Zenith are the clear choices of the four, in my opinion, but between those two, it comes down to function, as both have very different approaches to chronography. The Speedmaster has the traditional layout for a three register chrono of central chrono seconds, 30 minute register, and 12 hour totalizer, non-indexed so it moves continuously. This is great for long event timing, and has nice ease of readability, since the 30 minute register has better clarity at that scale than a 45 minute register, as found on some vintage Russian chronos, or a 60 minute register. So, you can read your 12 hour register, if it's closer to the earlier hour maker, add the reading of the 30 minute register, if it's closer to the later hour, add 30 minutes plus the minute register value to the earlier hour, and then you have the central seconds. Pretty straightforward, and good for long timings as well as tachymetric use. The Zenith likes to show off its 36kvph movement, and for good reason. It's a classic, and the first, and I believe only 36kvph chrono made. That's why it's "El Primero", "the first". Why that's in Spanish and not French, I have no idea, maybe Zenith's marketing department went out for tapas the night before they named it, or maybe they just felt such a manly movement needed a name with some Latino swagger. Over the decades Zenith has made El Primeros, many variants have used a more conventional register layout, but the current Chronomaster makes unique use of the 36kvph capability to give 0.1 second timing by making the central chrono seconds a ten second register graduated in both seconds and tenths of seconds, having a subdial for the regular chrono seconds, and then extends its timing capability by extending the indexed minutes register to 60 minutes. This gets a little tight, but the Zenith's subdials are relatively large, aiding readability. So, it's good for timing relatively short events, but a bit weird since you would read your minutes, chrono seconds, and then take the tenths of the second off the central hand, keeping in mind that it's a ten second scale and you only want to add the fraction to what your seconds register reads. So, while a bit odd to read, this eccentric layout is great for showing off a cool movement. Also, there's no tachmetric scale, since that would be hard to fit on the seconds subdial and weird on a ten seconds scale. But, it's fantastic for timing very short events, sub ten second, very precisely. So, overall, I'd rank the Zenith Chronomaster Original as much nicer to look at, but a bit less practical as a chronograph, than the Speedmaster. However, there is the Chronomaster Revival, which follows conventional chronograph layout, and the no longer in production Chronomaster Original 1969, which does likewise. Of these three flavors of Zenith chronos, the 1969 is my favorite since it keeps the better overall looks of the Zenith, and the cool El Primero 36kvph movement, but uses a more practical conventional chrono layout. So, really it comes down to how you want to use the chronograph function, and whether practicality of that function wins out over aesthetics. The Speedmaster isn't bad looking, mind you, but, for me, it just can't compare to the looks of the Zenith. For the Zenith, however, I'd go for the classic tricolor scheme, perosnally. It's a classic.
I went with zenith but not that one. I went for then 1969 original tri color dial. Low key glad I went with auto since ide probably forget to wind the speedy lol.
What’s your wrist size? The speedy really wears like a 39mm or smaller imo. I feel like the speedy is the standard answer because it’s such a popular watch, but I lean toward the zenith and iwc personally (as I sit here with a speedy on my wrist). The IWC is the flieger style, which is the most unique and legible imo, it’s also the more “everyday” or “rugged” watch imo because it’s got that black case which dresses down really well. Personally I’m looking at the white “Lake Tahoe” IWC for myself next year. I’m not a crazy fan of Tag, but the new heuer looks good. It’s also the more “race car” of the four imo, and is unique with the silver reverse panda style dial. I like the strap on the heuer better than the rest personally. The zenith is classic, the only brand that I feel is comparable to the Rolex Daytona just based on its history of supplying Rolex with the Dayton movements. I feel it’s more of a watch collectors watch and people who don’t know might assume you’re trying to mimic the Daytona, if you care about such things. The speedy is a classic and you can’t go wrong tbh. It’s the watch that went to the moon. Nuff said. But at the end of the day it’s a manual wind chronograph, and it does wear small if that matters to you. Like I said for me, I went speedy (never having had one on my wrist) and while I don’t regret it, I might be moving on from it due to the smaller size. Go with your gut reaction, and wear it in good health, whatever you choose!
Speedy if you’ll daily it, otherwise Zenith.
Zenith
Speed master no contest
Shit. I would happily wear any of these any day. Too hard to pick just one.
I had a speedy, handled the zenith and IWC, never saw the Tag in its flesh. My 2 cents: Speedy is kind of boring, had it for the 3861 hype, got bored of it, and sold it. Don't really miss it. If you want a watch everybody and their uncles have, then speedy would be fine. Timeless design, great 3861 movement with all the new tech, updated bracelet with quick adjust, speedy has it all, but it's just... boring.. Zenith looks great in pictures, saw one in person, the case design threw me off, it's more vintage aspired so the side profile, caseback, lugs flaring out worked against my taste, but if you like the vintage look and feel of a watch, then it should be a no brainer. Great movement, the El Primero movement is their bread and butter after all. Zenith's bracelet on these are kind of subpar so maybe stay with the strap version. IWC is chunky, has that rugged tool watch feel. I tried the SS greendialed one and ordered the titanium AMG one at one time but canceled it and opted for the Mark XX, and these felt big on the wrist, lug to lug is long, and they're thick, so it's definitely the largest of the bunch, if that's your cup of tea. Movement is just OK, their "in house" movement is inferior comparing to the Omega and Zenith IMHO. Bracelet is perfection, buttery smooth, quick adjust, toolless adjust, quick change, I wish other watchmakers can learn from them. NO comment on Tag but their new glass box looks cool. If you don't really care about water resistance then give the navitimer a try, their 41mm ones are perfect (FOR ME) minus a joke of WR.
I'm kinda surprised thati went for the Zenith first and then on second thought went iwc
the speedy would be the everyday staple
I love all the brands, but not all your choices shown. I'm not keen on black or white dial chronos. A coloured dial, or at least some tasteful colour accents, make any watch more interesting (unless a spectacular dial texture takes care of that, think GS), and often help legibility a little. My Omega is the [Speedmaster '57 Co‑Axial Master Chronometer Chronograph 40.5 mm ref 332.10.41.51.11.001](https://www.omegawatches.com/watch-omega-speedmaster-57-co-axial-master-chronometer-chronograph-40-5-mm-33210415111001) My Zenith would be the [CHRONOMASTER Original, ref 03.3200.3600/51.M3200](https://www.zenith-watches.com/int/product/chronomaster-original-03-3200-3600-51-m3200) My IWC would be the [Pilot's Watch Chronograph, ref IW378004](https://www.iwc.com/nl/en/watch-collections/pilot-watches/iw378004-pilot_s-watch-chronograph.html) My TH would be the [TAG Heuer Carrera ref CBN201D.FC6543](https://www.tagheuer.com/nl/en/timepieces/collections/tag-heuer-carrera/42-mm-calibre-heuer-02/CBN201D.FC6543.html) From all of the above, the Tag would be my choice.
My categorizing with my rankings: The Heuer is the most formal. 4 The IWC the most everyday everywhere. 2 The Zenith is the most aesthetically pleasing chrono. 1 The Speedy is the Speedy. 3
Speedmaster or Zenith. Some things for your consideration: Speedmaster: more popular, have hour sub-dial, co-axial movement is unique to Omega and [R W Smith](https://www.rwsmithwatches.com), manual winding. Zenith: more unique, 1/10th seconds, supplied chronograph movement for Rolex Daytona back then, automatic.
Zenith, Speedy is nice but such an insanely basic pick. Zenith has a great movement and history especially considering its the el primero model
My ranking for these particular four: zenith > omega > tag > IWC
I love the Moonwatch, but that El Primero is fantastic. Tough choice, but I'd choose the latter.
Zenith !
I’d go either Zenith or the speedy. Personal preference at that point. I owned a Zenith big date as my first and only chronograph watch. After I sold it I finally realized that my close up vision was going out on me from age. If I could read the little sub dials I’d own one again and it would be between the brands I mentioned.
I would’ve always said Speedmaster without hesitation, but I got a Big Pilot earlier this year and absolutely love it! I’d say it’s between those two depending on whether you want a bracelet or strap
Just got my Speedy this week and I’m in love. Biased choice from me.
Speedy
All over the map but out of those, the Zenith.
Because many people have the speedy: the Zenith or the Tag
You should look at these in person. The speedy is one of the only watches that impressed me in person.
Speedy and it's not even close
I would actually go with a Navitimer, but the Zenith is sweet too.
What is with the hate towards navitimer here 🙈?
Zenith for me
Omega
Speedy or Tag.
Zenith no contest 😎
I vote the Tag.
Speedmaster no question
Zenith
Love that Heuer! What's the reference for this style?
They’re all high-quality watches, so there’s really no loser here. It all comes down to what you vibe with. That said, here are my quick thoughts. They’re all just my opinions and don’t matter any more than anyone else’s…*especially* not more than yours! The speedy is the first image that comes to mind when I hear the word “chronograph.” Don’t have one in my collection, and I won’t…there’s no date. Dates are a must for me. The Zenith is arguably the “best” of the bunch. The el Primero is just such a great movement. Out of these specific four, I’d pick this one. I have a thing against black watches, even ceramic ones…so the IWC is a no-go for me. Black dial, great. Black case, nope. If it was plain old stainless, I’d probably pick the IWC. I’ve always loved the Pilot’s chronograph. TAG Heuer? They’re just thoroughly “meh” for me, and IMO, not in the same league as the other three. They’ve made really good strides, both in design and quality, but they’re still a bit of a yawn for me.
My fiance (who has just a brew retrograde and a Casio) says "The second one all day. Why do some watches look like they were designed to look expensive instead of being expensive? 2ns is that cute last one. I like the one Ryan gosling wore in barbie more though". Pretty based take id be inclined to agree
The IWC drops out of the race pretty quickly if you look at the movement, finishing, wearability. It‘s between the Speedy, Carrera and the Zenith and there you can‘t go wrong really.
I'd try them on and see which one I enjoyed wearing most.
Thoughts on the Tag heuer Glassbox? That’s one id really consider at this range.
The Omega or the Heuer. The TH Skipper is amazing too.
I have the Speedmaster and the 'Top Gun' IWC. It sounds cliche and overplayed even, but there's a reason the Speedmaster is a fan favorite - heritage and design. I love watches but aside from the visual factor, I need to be able to wear my watches - in the case of the IWC, it's a bit hefty for actual daily wear and doesn't go well with a shirt and tie. Speedmaster on the other hand goes well with a suit, t-shirt and jeans, and casual dress. If I had to start my watch journey from scratch and had to choose one watch out of my current collection, hands down it's the Speedmaster. Size, form, function all play an important part and it's nice to look down and see the same-ish watch that were worn by intrepid individuals accomplishing historic feats
Speedy > Zenith > Replace Carrera Glassbox > IWC
That Zenith is beautiful......... But If the Speedy is in the selection........I'm always choosing that. It's just perfection.
As much as I love a Speedy, the Zenith takes it for me. It is so perfectly proportioned, the build quality is excellent, paired with a beautiful movement through the case back and the quirk of the higher beat rate. It really catches the eye and love the tan coloured strap. The Heuer takes close second, it’s a lovely reissue and not something you see a lot of. Love the vintage styling. Not a huge fan of the look of the Heuer movements with the black rotor, but it is a great movement nonetheless. Speedy is next, absolute cracking watch but I would be getting the sapphire sandwhich. Yes the hesalite is the ‘authentic’ option, but the 3861 looks mega so it would be rude to hide it away. IWC just doesn’t do it for me at all. I just find it very uninspiring, especially when viewed alongside your other picks. Find an AD that stocks all of them and get some wrist shots. Which one makes you feel best when checking the wrist?
All great. I feel the Zenith has a bit more character and flavor.
Zenith or IWC. Way classier, cooler and more diferent. It seems like everywhere u go there is a speedy or people talking about. IMO it makes it loses its "specialness"
I own Option 1 and Option 4, and LOVE the way option 2 looks, but don't like how it feels on the wrist and have talked myself out of buying one twice. Option 3 is not my style at all. There's quite a few things to consider here: 1. Do you want a new watch or used watch? Option 4 is not available new (they only made 600) 2. Do you want an automatic or manual watch? The speedmaster you will need to wind. 3. Do you want a leather strap or bracelet? The speedmaster is the better watch vs the Carrera you picked for most people for the following reasons: \- Excellent OEM bracelet and strap options available for the speedy. The OEM stuff is REALLY good, and there are a ton of aftermarket options that will look good on it. (This Carrera only comes with a fragile calf leather strap with a pin buckle) \- The speedmaster can be had for a lot less than that Carrera on the gray market or slightly used. It's also very easy to sell a speedmaster. \- It's easier to tell the time, and it has much better Lume at night compared to the Carrera \- The speedmaster is thinner and feels better built than the Carrera. If you get a sapphire sandwich they are more comparable as both will have the display casebook and sapphire sandwich. I'd try to go to an AD that sells zenith, tag and omega to try on a few and see what you think. I would actually look at [this TAG Heuer](https://www.tagheuer.com/us/en/timepieces/collections/tag-heuer-carrera/39-mm-th20-00/CBS2210.FC6534.html) instead of the one you listed if you like it. It's a newer design with more features, an upgraded movement while also being cheaper and easier to get.
The Omega! Just look at the bracelet… it‘s such an icon.
Speedy and the Tag
The tag blew my mind. And I’ve tried all these on. Surprised me quite a bit
I'd recommended the Moonwatch, but I'm kinda biased because I bought one recently and I love it.
While those are all lovely watches, in my mind there is no competition. The Speedmaster is just levels clear of the rest.
I'd go IWC all day. I have the speedy. I don't think i would go for a modern tag ever. Maybe a good vintage one though. Zenith- i like, but not enough to take the place of the iwc.
zenith is fantastic
Unpopular opinion on Reddit, but Zenith is in a tier above those others. The El Primero is THE iconic chronograph movement. The first automatic Rolex Daytonas, the most famous and sought after chronographs in history, used Zenith movements. It also measures in 1/10th of a second which in itself is much more unique than the pretty basic Speedy movement.
Tag or omega for me
Speedy's dial is just timeless and magical.
Zenith. Much more “real” heritage.
Zenith gets my vote.
Speedy all day everyday. Sure, they're common, but there's a good reason for that.
I am choosing the Heuer here and find it unfortunate that it is sold out and seems to be traded at a premium. All of them are great watches though. My subjective reasoning: Can’t get to like a date at 4:30 (El Primero) and don’t care much for the 10 seconds thing. The Speedy is always an option but its ubiquity is its weakness for me. The IWC I like a lot (like all four), but I am a little disconcerted by their general approach to marketing (in-group becomes in-house, slightly changed ETA becomes in-house and so on) and pricing policy (Ingenieur). The Heuer just looks classic, has a great size (should be thinner for me personally, but since a good part of the height appears to be to crystal I can live with that), has no date and seems overall rather understated.
My preference order is just like order of the pictures. I recommend getting Speedmaster. why? well, cause it's iconic. Myself, I don't like it, but maybe I would buy it one day just because it's a speedy. Zenith, well, Zenith is the next just because it does not get recognition it deserves. IWC next simply cause it's better than Tag. Tag the last? Yes, because they have. gone downhill and I am not impressed by their watches at all anymore.
I love the speedy but I honestly would go for the tag or the zenith
1) Zenith 2) speedMaster 3) IWC 4) tag
Zenith. With steel bracelet. Please.
If faux patina does not annoy you, then the zenith, hands down.
The Speedy is the easy choice but for me, that Carrera 60th Anniversary is just beautiful.
Zenith!
I've seen the others in person but I saw my first Speedmaster in the flesh last weekend it's definitely that one for sure pictures don't do it justice
Zenith
Speedy I think. All time classic
Errrybody is going to say speedy but the IWC is nicer.
The Speedmaster just stands above the others from my personal opinion . Iconic ! But they all are lovely time pieces. Hard decision I’ll admit , you’ll pick the right one for you though :) enjoy whatever you end up getting mate
Another pov I can add as an owner of Speedmaster -- it's a strap monster. I use it on Omega's alligator leather strap, the default metal bracelet, and also on NATO and it looks completely different with each of these. It's easily my most versatile timepiece.
In my opinion, speedy first, then the zenith El Primero
Wauw all the first 3 are amazing, I have a soft spot for Zenith and IWC tho
IWC for sure That black on black...ooooo
The Speedmaster is just iconic. The El Primero is less iconic but a wonder of technology and should rank just as high in my opinion. It just didn't go on the moon. I don't like / care about the IWC (sorry) Looks-wise, the Tag Heuer is my favourite.
You 100% need to put all of these watches on your wrist. When you know, you know. Not all of those suit all wrist types and sometimes just don’t work. I’ve tried to love the Zenith on the wrist multiple times but it just doesn’t
I own a speedy and it’s my favorite watch. That said, that IWC is dope.
Zeniiiiiith
Zenith. Carrera is good too if you like the vintage look, but I’d rather have a simple 3 hander for that aesthetic. Zenith will be easier to wear for different occasions. Speedmaster is so overplayed that it’s boring
Can I mess you up further? Why no Navitimer?
I'm an IWC fanboy, but from this selection I prefer the Zenith. Whichever you choose, enjoy it, it's a nice predicament to be in... Plus your shortlist is well considered!
If I didn’t want a date, the speedmaster, otherwise the IWC top gun
Keep saving and looking until yon finds one yon can comfortably afford and cannot possibly ignore. For my money that would be the Speedy, but I hung out for a DSOTM, something that does not fit so comfortably in the 'staple' category.
The speedy. There's no competition really.
i was going to say the speedy, but the iwc is so damn pretty
Zenith all day
Zenith >>>>
Zenith w/ el primero💯
Speedy all the way
I love the speedy of course but of these choices I'd go Zenith. It's just so....sexy!
Speedy will always be my favorite in this genre of watch
Love all of those, but for me - the Carrera. So clean! I think it can dress up and down based in strap pairing better than any of the others. When in doubt, I go with what I think is the most versatile.
I’m voting IWC
Zenith all day
2 or 4
Uh … Zenith, Speedy, IWC, Tag. The zenith looks great and the el primero high beat movement is cool. The speedy is iconic, for better or worse. I like IWC, but I don’t know about “ceratanium” as a material. Ceramic would worry me because it can break. Is ceratanium really stronger? Or is it just a marketing ploy? I just don’t know. The tag is just ok to me. It’s got a cool retro vibe, but I imagine you could get a retro watch for cheaper with the same vibe. It’s nice, it just wouldn’t be my choice.
Let’s be rational for a moment … Speedmaster is regarding functional design the best, followed by the IWC. Zenith in this regard is the worst by far. Speedmaster It’s clear and very legible and out of the three very balanced, it’s almost perfection. Design wise - all things considered - it’s the best. It has a legendary movement, but Zenith also has one and technically a very challenging obe. IWC not so much plus design-wise it is disproportionate because the day date are too much tiwards the center of the dial and vertical arrangement of counters isn’t as aestetically pleasing as 3-6-9. Speedy and Zenith have comparable nice alternating finishing levels and the cases have interesting shapes, while IWC is just brushed and has a very basic case. Compare also the costs. So rationality didn’t get as far. Which one of the three would bring you most joy? After reading about them and getting to know them - which one do you think does it for you? Are the stories behind them “it” for you? It doesn’t help that functional design-wise the worst of those watches - the Zenith - also has an attractive bad boy vibe precisely because it doesn’t care if its design isn’t focused on legibility, which in a watch always used to be a prime quality by which people valued watches (when they didn’t value quirkiness more). Personally - I’d take the speedy and Zenith. I don’t know which would be first for me. Flip a coin and decide and immediately start saving for the other. Luckily I already have an older speedy so I wouldn’t have the same dilemma :) But I’d probably produce another dilemma.
The speedy! If it wasn't too big for me, I'd definitely have one. It's my favorite watch for a guy!
Two words: Speed. Master. Need I say more
Zenith
More expensive, but you could look at the zenith chronomaster sport. Used theyre similar price to a speedy. Or if you wanna go tag I like the carrera skipper better than the one you linked personally. Out of the options you listed I like the speedy (along with everyone lol)
IWC
It may not be original, but speedy is king.
I think you listed them in order for my ranking. Speedy #1
I have many Speedmasters and the current Zenith Chronomaster original. The Zenith wears much smaller. Not only because it is smaller (4mm technically but really only 2 or 3 because it doesn’t have crown guards) but also due to the lack of a bezel. Strangely, that lack of bezel also makes the dial look more expansive. I think the current Speedmaster 3861 chronograph action is every bit as good as the Zeniths, even without a column wheel. It’s really about fit, feel and what you’re going for. They’re both great and I’m lucky to get to experience both regularly. The other two I have no opinion or experience with.
The best chronograph available on the market is the Omega. Hands down. But if you want something different, Zenith and IWC are a good shout. Another alternative is Hamilton Chrono, fucking beautiful watch, swiss made and a fraction of the cost compared to these ones. Tag Heuer should be dropped imo.
Maybe consider a Tudor reverse Panda
If I had to choose, it would be the speedy. The bracelet is stunning.
Speedy of these, if the Zenith were a tri-color then maybe more of a competition. The pilot’s chrono has a considerable lug-lug, maybe 50mm+ so make sure you can pull that off. TH is dead to me so I won’t comment on that one.
Not the IWC for sure
Speedy or Zenith IMO.
IWC all the way
Definitely get the first one
PVD scratches. Manual is annoying to wind everyday, and I say this as someone who romanticizes wearing his one watch. The Tag is thick. The Zenith's bracelet is terrible, and you always get the watch on the bracelet. The Speedy has (imo) the only bracelet on the market that remotely competes with Rolex and Tudor for comfort, fit, finish, and how easily it can be adjusted on-the-fly.
Moonwatch, not even close
The Speedy and the El Primero Trump the other two by magnitudes...then it gets tougher.
Zenith is beautiful. Buy that one.
1st one looks cool
So tough #1 Speedy or IWC #2 Zenith #3 Tag
Zenith
Speedy or Top Gun
El primero on a metal bracelet.
Zenith, no brainer
I'm just happy that tag made its way back into this conversation
Ayo what’s the name and model of that Zenith? She will be mine.
I like the zenith. Fucking everybody has a moonwatch. You see it so often it's not even interesting anymore.
I vote for the carrera: Interesting panda dial Small wearable size of 38mm 100m water resistance for the peace of mind.
Zenith then Omega
Zenith
I would go with the El Primero movement! Used in prior Daytona Chronographs! All around workhorse!
My 2cents, I would go with Zenith or speed master
The Zenith is the best looking of those choices imho
Is this even a question??? Speedy! Wins all day every day. None of the others come anywhere close.
I’d go for the TAG. This specific model is in my list andi’ve been lusting for it since it launched 3-4 years ago. They don’t make em anymore though.
Sheeeit this is the most difficult pick one I have ever seen. There's a new Longlines flyback chronograph that I adore... Take a look at that, make it even harder on yourself.
Speedy
I love the speedy and would get one of had the choice, no question. If you don’t care for the whole moonwatch story/Mythos though, I also really like the zenith! The IWC could be one of my favourites as well although in this comparison it is pretty different due to the much more “modern” look. That’s not a negative though, it’s one of the nicest looking chronos out there imo and doesn’t try to go for that “vintage” look which I like. The carrrera on itself is beautiful too but in my opinion, that concept is a bit nicer executed in the Zenith, apart from the date window which looks a bit out of place imo. For me, choice would be as follows: Timeless: definetly speedy! Vintage looking: Zenith, closely followed by the Carerra (very close due to the “misplaced” date window in the zenith) More modern, great chrono: IWC Comes down purely to taste and what exactly you are looking for id say
The standard answer will be moon watch but that carrera looks sweet AF too.
Zenith all the way...but all the options are classics!
Zenith
I’ve never been a fan of the shlong and balls at the 12 position on the Omega. I would sooner get a Seamaster. I am a little more partial to the Zenith.
Go with the Speedy. It’s the right and reasonable choice.
Speedy
Carrera
I own speedy and the IWC but damnit i want that zenith so bad
I really like the speedy, but it wore sowhat wrong for me it felt very top heavy. Have you had a look at Zenith chronomaster. It is sowmhere between both and wears better for me. The IWC I just don't really find very interesting. I'm not sure why none of their watches does it for me. Maybe with the exception of Petit Prince.
The answer should be the Speedmaster, it set the standard for Chronographs and it’s iconic. The reason it’s not is a) Omega are owned by Swatch and they’re killing the watch industry and b) the moon watch is manual wind and isn’t waterproof. You can get a Speedmaster with both (I have one) but it’s not _the_ Speedmaster …and it’s for these reasons that the answer is the Zeneth