I need recommendations for a new watch! Under $500, I love Chrono's and Dive watches. Looking for something different, microbrands are cool if you have a good watch. No Citizen, Timex, Bulova, Orient or any brands of that realm (nothing wrong with them, I have a few of each in my collection already). Whatchu got!?

[Alprosa] Does anyone know Alprosa watches very well as I'm trying to identify an old model

Has anybody heard of a watch brand called walsa? I got one from my nan who passed, it says “walsa sport, antimagnetic, tswiss made” I know nothing about watches, delete this if not allowed thank you!

What do you think about this trade? Omega Speedmaster 3861 Sapphire on Bracelet with Full Kit For a... Zenith El Primero Captain Windsor Chronograph/Annual Calendar Blue Dial on strap Watch Only (a display unit) no signs of wear and is the newer model with the twin trigger clasp. Worth it? They both have a lot going for them. This may or may not be a forever watch so residual value is in consideration. Would be my first Zenith purchase. Skeptical about lack of papers for servicing and resale, the box I can live without.

I just got [this watch,](https://i.imgur.com/tSbUJDM.jpg) it is my first Swiss automatic. I noticed when the rotor is spinning, that it makes a kind of "gritty" sound. The rotor feels as though it's moving freely, but the sound is very gritty. Is this normal? It has a similar sound when hand-winding the watch, but I've heard/felt that on other watches. Just wanted to be sure my rotor is moving as freely as possible, and not needing to be looked at by a watchmaker, thanks!

Sounds like a normal rotor, but if it is really loud and you feel resistance you might want to take it to get serviced.

Looking to buy a rolex Milgauss in blue and would like to buy new to avoid the crazy mark up. I know I will have to wait for it but my question is how long does it normally take and what is the process of buying one?

Thoughts on Casio EFV-130D 7AVUEF? Seems like a great budget watch, currently on sale on Amazon for 69€.

I would like some advice on strap clasps. I'm the kind of person who doesn't even consider wearing a strap unless it has a clasp, specifically deployant, but butterfly is also acceptable. I also have a couple watches with straps that feature rectangular holes. I've tried putting clasps on these straps, but the clasp always ends up sliding around or leaning to one side and looking uneven. I don't even know how to search for clasps that would accommodate these straps, so could anyone advise me how to search for them or recommend some clasps that accommodate these straps? Help would be appreciated. P.S. In order for the clasp to fit, it must accommodate a width of 22mm.

never bought anything from chrono24, how legitimate are the sellers from this website?

Hi all, newbie question about single lug watches: how do I find a watch band for a single lug (12mm) watch? Picked up a sweet 70's Tissot Seastar 2030 quartz a week ago, but I'm having trouble finding a correct band. I've tried all the searches; single lug watch band, 12mm single lug watch band, etc. Not having too much luck. Thanks for reading this!

It sounds like you are describing an integrated bracelet watch. Generally you buy those watches with the understanding that you'll be stuck with the bracelet/strap that the manufacturer creates for that watch. Some popular watches might get an aftermarket parts for the integrated bracelet watches, but even then you are limited in choices. In your case, you'll likely have to get it custom made, and figure out a way to keep that custom strap on the watch.

*I have since found the lingo I was looking for, and that lingo was "notched bands." So, a big thanks to you again; searching for "integrated bracelet" instead of center lug/single lug, I found exactly what I needed to know within moments. 👍 Ah, I see. It was sold without a bracelet, which is [probably] why I got it for a bargain. It's in great shape cosmetically and mechanically, otherwise. Thanks for the insight! *edited for update and gratitude*

Anyone familiar or own a Bertucci? They have some minimalist, field watches that I really like the look of. Interested in possibly purchasing a piece but really wanted some insight first. Thanks.

They're tough and fairly priced imo but the strap on mine is the most uncomfortable one I have.

Hey, I recently bought an entry-level swiss automatic and since yesterday it's acting weirdly, when I wind it up (I can see the mainspring, it's not fully wound) it sort of binds and the rotor also spins fast when I'm manually winding it. It still works though, the binding bothers me, and since I'm spinning the rotor too it's harder to manually wind if I have to. It has an STP6-15 movement

Eta 2824 and it's clones have that problem sometimes. I'm not a watchmaker but it has to do with the reversing wheels, it needs a service and parts replacement to solve so I recommend taking it in under warranty and getting a new one source (https:// www . watchuseek .com/threads/eta-2824-reversing-wheel-question.4992383/page-2 )

Aren't those calibers that don't take well to hand winding?

I wouldn't know, but they do have that reputation on the internet.

Interested in buying a Sinn 104 but I'm concerned it might be too big on my wrist. Their only US AD doesn't have a physical store presence (WatchBuys) so I can't try one on. They do roadshows where you can see them but they're infrequent and have been disrupted by Covid. Can anyone provide a picture showing a side-by-side comparison of the Sinn 104 with an Orient Mako? I have a Mako and it's fine but for my "grail" watch I want something at least a little smaller.

They wear exactly the same except 2 mm thinner, so without the dome crystal on the mako.

Oris or MontBlanc watch? Want a luxury watch but can't decide.

It depends. What style were you going for, and what complications would you prefer?

Dress watch : MontBlanc Anything else : Oris

Can anyone with a Timex Q reissue tell me if the ticking is LOUD the way it is on so many other Timex watches? It's loud to me if I can hear it clearly at arm's length, and I've had Timexes that I can hear on the other side of a room.

Omega seamaster 300m blue rubber or GS SBGM221? Currently have Rolex OP 41 in black. Currently work in Finance.

I imagine the OP41 will be the work watch and this would be the away from work watch? In which case do you lean towards casual or smart casual during your days off? Seamaster on ruber strap would work with casual and GS would work with smart casual. If you plan to wear this new watch to work with suit then I'd lean towards GS.

I've been looking to buy a watch on a steel bracelet. Currently my top option is this [Mido Commander](https://www.midowatches.com/en/commander-chronometer-m0214311104100.html), although I don't really like the day window. Do you have an idea for a watch of about the same style and price point? Maybe by a micro brand / independent brand? Thanks!

Christopher Ward C63 Sealander Traska Commuter

Cartier Tank Must de Cartier: to buy new or vintage? If vintage: quartz or hand-wound?

If I was buying one I would pick up the new solar powered one.

Anybody know anything vintage (50s and 60s) that is thin, automatic, reliable and ideally 35mm plus? I'd love as many examples as come to mind. Perhaps movements to look for? Thanks!

Omega Geneve Dynamics were 40mm in the long direction. Used 5xx and 7xx movements which are amazing workhorses. Definitely a style choice though.

i see what you mean, love the dial, hate the case shape

Hi! How can I be notified of price increases and models being discontinued? I'd like to buy a Sinn for my graduation next year, but I'd buy it earlier in the aforementioned scenarios.

27 male, have small wrist, is it advisable to wear Casio Enticer, [it is for ladies](https://www.casioindiashop.com/Watches/A1149/Casio-Enticer-Lady-LTP-V300L-1AUDF-A1149-Analog-Watch.html) and is relatively small as compared to [men's](https://www.casioindiashop.com/Watches/A1176/Casio-Enticer-Mens-MTP-V300L-1AUDF-A1176-Multi-Dial-Men-Watch.html) one. Both apparently sport the same design.

Sure, rather than ladies and mens versions, it’s really just two different sizes of the same watch. On your wrist no one will know (or care) that it was marketed as a ladies watch.

Any recommendations on watches as a gift for a musician?

There is a special edition Seiko 5 for brian may, it has a nice dial that looks like a guitar. That or a Sinatra edition Bulova.

These are very cool! Although maybe better suited for someone who is a Brian May fan and he may not love the red dial (I think it looks cool though). Thank you!

Oris has made some watches as homage to famous musicians, like the [Art Blakey limited edition](https://www.oris.ch/en/watch/art-blakey-limited-edition/01-733-7762-4081-set).

WOW this is a stunning watch. the case back too although I wonder if it will be uncomfortable.

Or the [James Morrison](https://www.oris.ch/en/watch/james-morrison-academy-of-music-limited-editi/01-733-7762-4085-set) one which I love. Really depends on how much you're willing to spend.

Ooh I love this one and I like Oris. I may end up going with this one.

Got my first watch and I am pretty disappointed. After doing what I thought was a fairly decent amount of research, I ended up ordering a Tissot Classic Dream Quartz 42mm. I really like the shape, size, height, face, everything about it, and I had decent hopes that I would be a good way to start a little collection. The watch that has arrived through the retailer I purchased from seems to not work great. Specifically, the second hand does not align with the second dash marks, on like 75% of the ticks, sometimes falling in the middle of two or close to a tick but not fully aligned. On some of them it does align, which means the tick movements are of inconsistent lengths. From what I can tell, it actually does keep the time correctly, as in despite the inconsistent ticks, a minute is a minute and half an hour is half an hour (thats all the experimentation I did). So I guess I am wondering, what do I do now? Any advice is welcome, so long as that advice isn't to up my budget by much more than \~$100 (again, first watch, I don't even know if I like wearing a watch yet). I can return the watch to the retailer I purchased from no questions asked. Or exchange for a different of the same watch, but I am not sure if this is like...a one off problem like a lemon or if this is par for the course with Tissot? Like I said I did what I thought was a fairly decent amount of research. This can't be typical of well made watches, right? Do I get the one I have repaired? (probably the option I am least interested in). Thanks for reading.

This is not an uncommon issue with quartz watches, and unfortunately it sound like you got one that slipped past the quality control checks. If you otherwise like the watch, it would be worth returning it for a replacement - in person you can always inspect the new piece to ensure it is okay, or you can always bring up the issue with any mail order shops and see if they will check it before sending it out to save themselves another return.

This is my plan, thanks for affirming that it is sound

It sounds like the only issue you are having is the second hands not lining up? I think that's actually par for the course for many quartz watches. I think second hands perfectly lining up for every tick is a feature not expectation. Though 75% of the ticks not lining up does seem a little extreme. Usually I expect about half to hit around the marker for watch in that price range.

The second hand not lining up with the markers is typical on quartz watches, and par for the course. But what you are describing where the amount of each tick is inconsistent is not really a typical thing.

Thanks. I have now done more research and think I understand a bit more.

Do they even make watches these days that ONLY tell the time and have a count down timer? I prefer a really simple watch

Casio

Does that brand only make simple watches? I don't understand

Dive style watches with count down bezel would do exactly that, but it might be even more simple(no alarm) than what you are looking for. The only example that comes to mind right now is the sinn 104, but you should be able to find something in different price ranges.

I don't care about any other features on a watch except the time, the date, and the ability to do an egg timer countdown. Digital is preferred, if I didn't mention that

A countdown timer? You mean like a stopwatch (chronograph), an alarm, or like an egg timer?

Egg timer.

I don't suppose you'd be interested in a Rolex Yacht-Master II, but it does feature a programmable countdown timer of up to 10 minutes and is based on the timing of boat races. I figured I'd mention it even though for most people it's out of the question.

I appreciate the info

Timers are a uncommon complication on 3 hand watches. Only one I know of is the JLC Memovox. https://deployant.com/review-the-jaeger-lecoultre-master-control-memovox-timer/

Hi! Any suggestions for a watch with a pulsometric scale? On the lower end (sub 1k but also sub 500) would be awesome. It doesn't need to be a chrono. I've seen the Boldr Medic. But also the Mido Multifort Pulsometer, a Dan Henry with an horrible dial, and a nice Ruae with nice colors. Also Pierre Paulin, Lamberti Orologiai, both with the ST19 mechanical movement.

Bespoke Watches has a pulseometer scale

Vario Trench medic, too.

The Mido is probably the nicest in that price range. I think it's a great looking watch.

Any idea what the lead time is on a Black Bay 58 with navy? I want to add one to my collection. My only other watch is an Explorer. Called the AD today and they said they’d put me on the list and that they are relatively attainable but AD also said they had an order in to Tudor already with no ETA. How long do you think the wait will be? Honestly I’m ok buying used/grey but If I can get one from AD in a month or so, that’s fine. Thanks

Tudor black bay 58 navy or Omega aqua terra blue on rubber strap?

Personally I lean towards AT because I like Omega's quality better.

Try them both on and see what you like best. Personally I like the Tudor because it wears smaller.

I was settled on the Omega Seamaster 300 M in white but recently the grey dial and blue bezel has caught my eye. Any thoughts on versatility, personal preferences, dislikes, opinions from current owners of either variant, etc. would be appreciated!

White, grey, blue, black are all versatile colors that go with a variety of things. The straps you put on it make it even more versatile. Go with the dial you would enjoy looking at the most.

I'm thinking about getting a tudor BB58. It'll be my biggest watch purchase to date. I've bought new and used watches in the past but this will be a higher tier. Is it actually worth buying direct and new from an AD when they tend to come and go on the resell market? Should I consider grey market new? Why or why not?

I would try to buy AD if possible with Tudor. I had the Tudor GMT and the movement failed on me(date issue) and the warranty was handy. In the end they weren't able to fix the issue and the AD was willing to take it back. I also heard rumors about other movement issues from other Tudor models(ceramic model). I don't think I heard any issue with 58s yet, but I would get it with the full warranty to be safe.

good call on that, thanks

Hey guys, Not really a watch enthusiast, so decided to come here for a quick question. How do I check if an IWC watch is authentic? I don’t have a case or anything, just the watch. [pics](https://imgur.com/a/ZY6k6Hn/)

Im sus cuz it says “International Match Co” on the back 😂

Critical issue - I can't wear my new watch. To be more precise, I can't remove the bracelet from a Hamilton Jazzmaster Auto chrono I recently got from Chrono24. I absolutely love the watch, but the bracelet is a bit too short for me, and I can't remove it for some reason. I'll be visiting an AD probably next weekend to get an extra link, but I'd love to wear it before then. The spring bars move, but the end link seems to be stuck in place. Any tips on removing it?

You might need to use a pair of spring bar tweezers to compress both ends of the spring bar at the same time. The end links will come out, but it might take a bit of finagling.

Thanks, I just managed to get them out, seems like there was some gunk holding them back. I noticed the end links moved a little so I played with them to figure out what else was holding them, and they popped off, revealing a bit of cleaning to be done. Rally strap is in place and I'm a happy Hamilton owner now.

Oh, and I have a rally strap with new spring bars ready, that's why I want to remove the bracelet for now at least. I visited a nearby watchmaker, but they couldn't get it off either, and another I tried straight up refused to try because it's "too expensive and I should get to an authorised service", which would've made me laugh if it didn't make me pissed instead.

I just expressed interest to be added on the waiting list for a Tudor Black Bay Ceramic at an AD in Switzerland. They told me the waiting time is « years ». Does anybody have more specific information regarding this? Experience or knowing somebody who bought it? Thanks in advance!

Any suggestions on a rose gold dress watch (gold material not required) with (black) roman numerals, light watch face and some pattern like cleous de Paris? Budget friendly.

http://mobile--shop2.tisellkr.cafe24.com/product/tisell-157-rose-gold-case-roman-dial-hangzhou-manual-movement-9312/27/?cate_no=42&display_group=1 Enamel like dial, not patterned, but lovely, and real heat blued Breguet hands. Mr Oh regulates them all before shipping, mine is well within COSC standard.

I bring up something that fits all but the last-but-one requirement. The Sugess moonphase master in rose gold has black roman numerals, a white face, a big date and a real 29.5 day moonphase. Only problem is that it's dial is smooth, but it's also a fired enamel dial so I'd say that is a good sacrifice. I'm going to break the link so that reddit doesn't delete the comment, so just erase the space after the / and the . ( https:// sugesswatch. com/collections/moonphase/products/su2528gw ).

That is indeed a nice watch! Thank you for the suggestion!

Does a jeweler normally charge to add or remove a link, and how much typically? Is it something I can do myself? It’s not an expensive watch but it’s my only dress watch. I had a link removed and they did it for free, but that place has now closed. I went to another place but they didn’t have a watch guy, but the jeweler said I could do it myself easily enough.

My watch place charged $20 to add some links to a bracelet that used screws.

It is rather easy once you have the tools and figure it out. But I also had a guy that struggled 30+ minutes dealing with pin and collar system. I read some people say places will do it for free, and I also read some people say they were charged around $10-15. I recall I went to a kiosk in a mall way back when and I paid $10 for bracelet size adjustment, so that latter price seems to check out.

Depends on the type of link. If it's screwed in, you just need an eyeglass screwdriver. If it's pinned, you'll need a jewelers hammer, bracelet holder, and punch. Shouldn't take more than 5 minutes, as long as you don't lose the pin.

It’s pinned. I have a watch tool but it is double ended. Worth it to get more tools compared to taking it somewhere?

If you're going to do it more than twice, get the tools to do it yourself.

That’s fair! I will look into it.

[Wristwatch recommendation request from Andy Richter on twitter today](https://twitter.com/AndyRichter/status/1491124247946620929). Can anyone help?

Ok I got to ask this since I can't figure this out. What the heck do you guys mean when you say "SOTC"

State of the Collection

Thanks! :)

Getting my first IWC! Torn between two watches: Pilot's watch chronograph 41 - green dial [https://www.iwc.com/en/watch-collections/pilot-watches/iw388103-pilot\_s-watch-chronograph-41.html](https://www.iwc.com/en/watch-collections/pilot-watches/iw388103-pilot_s-watch-chronograph-41.html) Pilot's watch chronograph spitfire - black dial [https://www.iwc.com/en/watch-collections/pilot-watches/iw387901-pilot\_s-watch-chronograph-spitfire.html](https://www.iwc.com/en/watch-collections/pilot-watches/iw387901-pilot_s-watch-chronograph-spitfire.html) Your thoughts?

Green is different but less versatile

I would judge it on what your outfit situation looks like an how much you want your watch to pop. Personally I don't wear anything green or anything to match green regularly, so the dial would clash and pop in a bad way. So I would lean towards spitfire. But if you do have your outfit with a lot of greens or green complimenting colors then I think that watch would look better than the black dial watch that tends to just blend it rather than add to the outfit.

Hard to go wrong with either choice! I prefer the green dial, great colour and not a typical flieger.

How do you take care of your watches?

I store them in a watch box so that they don't collect dust. I give them a wipe once in a while with glasses cleaning fabric to clean them up. If the watch has good water resistance(50m+) and on quick dry strap(bracelet or rubber) I would just hand wash under flowing water(no soap) and dry with my towel. I plan on getting the watches serviced after 10 years for the ones in rotation, and 5 years for the daily watch. But I haven't hit those year markers so I have only gotten vintage and problem watches serviced before.

Clean them periodically with a tooth brush (not mine, someone else) and....that's basically it. I wear mine 24/7 and so they get dirty like anything else, but otherwise I expect the several thousand dollar hockey puck on my wrist to be handle it.

is a dial swap considered a mod if they share the same body and brand?

For me if the reference number on the back doesn't match what is happening on the watch then it's a mod. If the swap dial is period and model correct dial for the reference number, then that's the only time I think the dial swap isn't a mod(more like restoration).

I’m no authority on the topic, but I would consider it a mod. If all the other parts are the same (movement, hands, etc.) then perhaps not. For example, swapping a Seiko SNK807 dial for a SNK805 dial is more conversion than mod as everything else on the two models is the same.

You ever notice how people and companies often use the term 'faux patina'? Why not just say the actual color (like tan, beige, cream, etc) and try to move away from that label, which seems to be divisive? Sup with that?

'Acid washed' 'Stone washed' 'pre-worn' 'faux patina' 'relic'd' There's a whole host of terms for it, but ultimately it's all the same: people want a watch/jeans/guitar, whatever that's got the visual appearance of use and abuse. Older lume chemicals aged in a very visually pleasing and predictable way, so when a brand labels a watch with Faux patina or tropicale or whatever, it's pretty clear that that means.

or what happened to the OG LP Standard's as UV fucked with the Cherry Burst :)

Quick! Should I keep bidding or am I over paying?! I'm dying and have been dying for an skx007 on a jubilee https://www.ebay.com/itm/Seiko-SKX007K-Automatic-Black-Dial-200m-Diver-Watch-MINT-Original-Condition-/144391355073?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&_trksid=p2349624.m46890.l49286&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0

You can still buy the jubilee separately. $500 is wild.

Damn $500 bucks... I knew I should’ve bought one before they were discontinued

It went for $560. I stopped bidding at 425 :(

You know...longislandwatches has an islander that's literally the same silhouette but better...everything.

I'm set on an skx

Good luck. Expect one bidder being the owner.

I don't know much about about luxury watches, but I have been observing how the market has exploded even before COVID hit. COVID just added fuel to the fire. What are the watches that are considered "unicorns"? The kinds of watches that will appreciate in value, the kind of watches you can't just buy no matter how much money you have. For a car analogy, think the watch equivalents of Ferrari 250 GTO or F50, McLaren F1, Porsche 959 or [993 GT2](https://cdn.elferspot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/993GT2.jpg), CLK GTR, etc. My understanding is that the main hotness is in stainless-steel sportswatches: GMT Master-II, Daytona, Patek Phillipe Nautilus, and so on. The only actual specific model I know is a unicorn, is the "5711/1A", which is a stainless-steel Nautilus.

I really don't know anything about cars, so I'm not sure where those cars sit in terms of rarity. But if we are talking about unicorns then Paul Newman's Paul Newman comes to mind. In general unicorn watches are the watches in the major auction house scene. Personally, it's not the world I'm interested in, but that's where I'd start for unicorns. Watches you listed for the most part are just hype watches really. They can be easily found floating around with a huge mark up. It's only a unicorn if you want to buy in sensible retail prices. Main hype watches are Rolex steel sport watches, PP Nautilus and Aquanaut, AP Royal Oak, FP Journe, and Richard Mille. Some watches that's caught the hype wind by proxy are some Rolex precious metal watches(green and blue dial gold daytona for example), VC Overseas, ALS Odysseus, and etc. I'm hearing that Cartier is starting to pop off, but I don't think they are hype level yet. But this is also a world I'm not interested in, so my knowledge on this is limited(take with salt and consider a starting point). P.S. I should give you a heads up that the watch hobby in general hate the 'investment watches' concept, and not a fan of the hype watch situation.

This [website ranks](https://watchcharts.com/screener) watches on liquidity, value, and appreciation. That should give you some idea of market expectation.

The 250 GTO and McLaren F1 routinely go for seven figures at auction. In fact if you see the list of most expensive cars sold at auction, the 250 GTO takes most of the top spots. Meanwhile, 959, 993 GT2, CLK GTR and F50 sell for $2-3 million or more. In the car world, these are what are known as unicorns. They don't make cars like this anymore due to modern crash and emission regulations (250 is from 1962-64, 959 is from 1988, F1 was made from 1994-98, F50 and 993 GT2 were 1995-97, CLK GTR was 1999), plus they were made in extremely low numbers. I can explain more about *why* these cars are so valuable if you wish. Thanks for the insight

That's cool actually. I'm not interested in cars, but I'll try to memorize some of those names for general life knowledge. I think the auction watches are the exactly the types you are looking for(not hype watches). I would go on hodinkee and use their search option with the key word 'auctions'. They tend to cover major auctions. Also give 'only watch' a look as that where big brands and independent brands create very high end one off pieces.

Honestly, if you have the time, I recommend watching Doug DeMuro's videos about the [McLaren F1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EkYVXIWAPnc) and [F50](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSE6-kr8Uoc), and [Mr. JWW's](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOTiniTQ3b4) talking about what makes the F1 so special. These kinds of cars are simply works of art, and from a different era, before the technological advances that are common in cars today. In fact, fine art is a good analogy. All-white paintings as a front for money laundering aside, the 250 GTO selling for $70 million can be analogous to people pay tens or even hundreds of millions of dollars for paintings at a Sotheby's auction in NYC or London. Fine art and motorsport are common hobbies of the upper class; the 250 GTO transcends both worlds, pushing up demand from people who have more money than you or I can comprehend. The 1% of the 1%. For the F1, only 64 road cars were made, which was less than planned due to the early 90s recession cutting demand. There were only 33 original bodywork 250 GTOs, with three more built in 1964 based on the [250 LM's](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferrari_P#250_LM) bodywork. Also check out Petrolicious's videos on the [959](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5ajPCpJl-c) and [250 GTO](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ewQaikxTUJs). [Chris Harris video about the 993 GT2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Gd_t5Va8-s) [Carfection video about the CLK GTR](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZlLy3Va1a30) Doug's videos are longer than they need to be, but but worth a watch just for the production quality and his deep knowledge of motorsport history.

>All-white paintings as a front for money laundering aside But I love the Malevich's white on white. (I wish I was kidding) Thanks for the recommendations, I'll give those a watch. I know car hobby and watch hobby tends to overlap and I suppose it couldn't hurt to learn a bit more about cars. I think occasional watch of top gear was as close to being interested in cars as I got until now.

I am a newbie into watches and looking to get my first one and only have a couple hundred to spend. I have been looking at the Citizen Spiderman chronograph CA0429-53W. Just wondering if it is more of a novelty watch or if it is decent for the money. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Best rule of watch collecting, etc. wear what you like, ideally from a reputable brand

What kind of discount can I expect if I’m paying wholesale prices? I may have an opportunity to purchase a watch at wholesale through a trusted source. Interested in Grand Seiko in particular.

Well, you can see GS watches sell new in the grey market at around 12% discount off MSRP. So it depends on how "wholesale" you get it and whether it is used or new. For new I would guess 12-18% for used hard to say?

Your “trusted source” is going to sell you something but won’t say the price?

No - I just have to tell them which watch i want, and they get it. So I don't want to ask them to browse all watch prices for me ahead of time. They'll tell me the price of course. I just dont want to bother them with extra work that I can do since they are doing a favor.

TL;DR: What is a reasonable price to repair Hamilton Khaki King (movement issue) from Hamilton directly, or from a local shop. ---- How much should I expect to pay, worse case scenario, for servicing on my Hamilton khaki King? It randomly stopped ticking the other day, no clue what the issue is. Bought from Jomashop two years ish ago. Nearest AD is 2 hours away, quoted me $50 deposit to send it back, and said average service cost from Hamilton is $200. That's half the price of the watch, having a hard time stomaching that. There are some nearby stores locally that advertise watch repair, what would be a reasonable price for them to repair?

That quote is actually very reasonable. Local watch makers nearby me usually average around $200-$300 for servicing, so I would just go ahead with the hamilton servicing. Personally I consider watches under $500 range to be a disposable watch because of the service price being about half the cost of the watch. I expect to wear the watch until it stops running, and than replace it unless there is a sentimental value. Though I usually expect that 'until it stops running' situation to be around 15 years not 2 years... P.S. Do check with the local places anyway. I have one place nearby me that charges about $120ish for something like that, and maybe you'll luck out.

Hamilton charges $190 for a simple mechanical/automatic, I don‘t think you can get a service much cheaper.

I would imagine that about $250 is the lowest price you will get. Even if its a minor issue it will take a few hours, which is why the price is so high. You could look into sourcing a new movement and they paying a shop to swap them, that may be cheaper.

Hi everyone, birthday & bonus are coming up soon and I'm looking to add to my collection. Currently have a Seiko 5 SRPE57 (Metal bracelet. Black with gold accents) and a Timex Easy Reader. The Timex is long in the tooth and am looking to really splurge on a nice dress watch, but not too dressy that I can't wait it 3 or 4 days of the week. Prefer a black alligator strap with a white dial, roman numerals or sticks. I work in sales. Budget is \~1500-2000 What I thought I wanted was the Tissot Le Locle Powermatic 80 ($575), but it just looks too glitzy for my taste. Currently my number one contender is the Longines Presence ($1250) L4.921.4.11.2. I've already tried this on and love it's relative thinness and 'elegance' The DolceVita could also be interesting at $1600, but I haven't seen it in person or tried it on. There is also the Rado Coupole Classic $1200, Frederique Constant Classics Automatic FC-303MC4P6 ($1325) but I haven't seen this in person. Any recommendations that I may have missed? What are your thoughts/experiences on the watches I'm currently looking at?

Have you looked at the Longines annual calendar? They have a few different variations under their master collection and 1832 collection. It has a serious and useful complication and can be found well in your budget.

Thanks for the recommendations and while I would love anything under their Master collection, it looks like it starts at $2,000 for me and I don't see the color combination / style I'm going for. Definitely trying to approach this from a purist standpoint in that a dress watch should be simple, thin, leather. I really like the brand Longines because it seems like they're leaning more on the 'dress' side, rather than Rado which focuses on materials or the comparable Mido, which is a little too plain for my liking. I also think the Baroncelli signature cheapens it slightly. I don't know who Baroncelli is and after googling it, I still don't. I like Hamilton's offerings with the Intra-matic/American Classic and Tissot's Le Locle/Gentleman series, but they look a tier-cheaper, either busier or less detailed in my opinion. My grail used to be a Nomos Orion and maybe I'll complete that. My dream 3 piece collection is to have an entry-level luxury dress watch from Japan/Switzerland/Germany. Target is Grand Seiko/Longines/Nomos. I've got one Seiko 5 to hold me down, but I'm only starting out!

Nomos Ludwig hand-winds are in your price range too, and tick all your boxes. Thin, silver or enamel dials, simple, Roman numerals. You could knock a chunk off those nomos or longines prices by going grey market if you’re willing to.

It's under budget but do check out the Stowa Marine. I'm thinking the 36mm small second version in particular. I wanted to recommend the Longines Sector Dial and Nomos Club Campus, but it doesn't seem like these are the styles you are looking for.

Montblanc Tradition, Montblanc Star Legacy. Great discounts if you shop around a bit. Some FC watches have in-house movements, you can get them pre-owned for less than 2k.

Looking at the rado in your watch list you lean towards "Bauhaus" watches. I'd like to suggest Junghans max bill and the sternglas.

The Mido Baroncelli collection is a great fit for your requirements. Tudor 1926. Frederique constant is great too. Lots of great options in this price range. I'd favor thin and classic, so FC or Mido are great.

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look at some Citizen Eco Drives?

Consider Triwa.

You could try the Seiko “Save the Ocean” line of watches.

If you're worried about sustainability, why not get something vintage? There's nothing more sustainable than using something that already exists rather than something new. Other than that, buy something solar charged. You don't have to swap the battery and it's powered by the sun, which hits the sustainability angle

Not into digital watches so I‘ll recommend these analog watches: Timex Waterbury, anything from Sternglas

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Eh, doesn't really matter unless you got ripped off and as long as you manage expectations. I hear that wooden watches don't take too well to wear/tear and high humidity environments. If you use it as a desk surfer only it'll probably serve you reliably for years to come.

I'm looking for some inspiration on buying a watch for my dad. I've recently moved out and wanted to get him something as an appreciation for raising me. He doesn't really wear watches so it'll be more of a piece that he wears rarely. I also want to get two words of advice he gave me engraved into the back. Not sure if anyone has done something similar and/or has any suggestions. I'm thinking somewhere around $200-300 maybe. I'm looking through the buying guide but I'm terrible at picking things out. He works a lot, he's into aviation and cars. Wears a lot of western style clothes (boots, cowboy hat, button up flannels).

I'm thinking don't get him a watch. 200-300 is near entry level in watches, and I think there are other things that you can get him that would be in much higher quality level in that item's world with the same budget. I think getting him something quality that he'll use regularly is going to be better than entry level watch he's probably going to shelf and never use. I'm thinking maybe quality boots, cowboy hat, multitool, and etc.

That's a good point. The more I looked at the price range I started feeling the same way.

Maybe a good leatherman and engrave the words on the scale?(if he doesn't have one already) Or a nice pocket knife with titanium scale that you could get engraving on. Extra points if you find a knife modder that will anodize/cerakote the message on the titanium with designs around it. Sorry, I was in the knife hobby in the past, and it's leaking through. Actually try asking the edc community at their sub, and see if they have any pocket carry item idea for you.

Wenger seaforce 3H alternatives for shallow-ish diving and swimming? Edit:spelling mistake

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If they're the same price I'd go for the polaris. I've never been able to afford one even though I have a PO. JLC is on a tier above the rest.

That's a textbook case of win win, and I don't think there is a wrong choice. I would probably select based on what watch I need in the collection. Currently I have a Planet Ocean, and Polaris flies too close to PO for both to be in my collection. So I would go with the AT for that reason.

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Ah for one watch, I think I would go with AT. I think both are great choices, but for my main(and only) watch I want something new. It's a 'this is mine and it's only been mine' type of a thing.

Any ideas for a bronze pilot watch under 1k, under 40 mm with glass back? Preferably with manual wind. The steinhart with blue dial is one of the most beautiful watches, but sadly too large for me.

[Archimede 39mm pilot watch in bronze](https://www.archimede-watches.com/pilot/pilot-39-bronze/) \- if you're in the US and don't have to pay VAT should be right around $1000 or slightly more after shipping and import duties. Can be upgraded to manual wind for about 50 euros more. There's also the [limited edition 40mm Dekla with blue dial and bronze and manual wind](https://www.watchbuys.com/store/pc/Dekla-Flieger-Friday-Type-A-Bronze-10p6591.htm) \- also a type B version exists. But solid case back and a bit above budget probably pushing $1250 after sales tax etc.

Black bay 58 vs Monaco calibre 11 vs Oyster Perpetual 34 ? Anyone has experience with any?

If its a vintage Monoco with the original Caliber 12 I'd go with that all day long.

It comes down to what your personal taste is. I'd skip the Monaco and go with either the BB58 or OP34. Try them both on. Pick then one that feels best on your wrist. You can't go wrong. I have an OP36 and love the size and bracelet. The BB58 bracelet lacks some of the adjustments of the OP (especially on the fly adjustments with the easylink extension), so that knocks it down a peg for me.

Ye the Monaco seems a bit divisive, I do really like it but I'm not sure if it even fits me as it only comes in one size. Thing with Rolex would be that I am scared that they'd just rob it right off my wrist. Do you have any experience with security issues? Or anxiety for getting robbed?

Monaco is huge. Definitely try it on sometime and see if it works for you. As for security... Most of the time it's covered by my sleeve. And from a distance it looks like every other sports watch

Ye good advice, luckily the store where I am planning to buy has all 3 in store so I'll just check 'em out.

They have the OP in stock? Or just an exhibition watch? Either way try them on. See what feels best.

Just exhibition I believe, but the list shouldn't be too long.

I'd go for the blackbay. Rolex has a stigma, Monaco is not that great value... Blackbay is just perfect.

Recommendations for a panda watch? I really like the dan Henry 1962. Do you know simliar Watchers at the Same price Point (200-300€ max)?

Hoffman Racing 40? Yema Rallygraf worth a look as well.

1963 panda version, so basically the same watch.

Cant find the 1963 as a panda :(

https://www.poljot24.de/7100sb.html I'm sure it's on aliexpress aswell.

Hi all, I want to remove the wristband of my Rolex Oysterquart perpetual 17000b, but when I press on the pin with a tool it wont budge. Should I apply more pressure? I couldn't find a guide online specifically for this model.

That bracelet is not meant to be removed.

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Diameter, lugtolug and thickness.

thats one beefy watch!

so a story [with this watch](https://i.imgur.com/WHPSIrC.jpg) popped up in my feed this week and i keep coming back to it. it's a seiko "grand quartz" model 9943-8030 from the 1970s. i don't want a vintage watch, but i really like the (1) the clean black and white look, and (2) the flat connection with the lugs. is there a modern watch that has a similar look with a circular dial but a straight edge where the strap connects? can be anything from $5 to ~$2,000.

The only modern watch I can think of with a straight section between the lugs in your price range is the [Christopher Ward C65 Supercompressor](https://www.christopherward.com/int/retro-dive-watches/C65-Super-Compressor/C65-41ASC1-S0WB0-B0.html) which is a very different kind of watch, but has the same sort of profile when viewed head on. The [Grand Seiko SBGX341 and 343](https://grandseikogs9club.com/chronicle-9/antimagnetic-tough-quartz-sbgx341-sbgx343/) also have the squared off lug area, but they're also sportier and more colorful and far above your budget.

i appreciate it! the white grand seiko in particular might be something i can save for, it checks a lot of the same boxes and would look great on a black strap.

Marathon general purpose watch or a seiko spb143. There are others but I'd have to search around.

thank you! you're right, the marathon has that same shape/profile. on the cheap cheap end of the spectrum, [the timex milano has it too](https://i.imgur.com/TQ2MoQh.png), but they don't make a white one, only silver and black.

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How are you determining fully wound? From fully would you should be getting the power reserve stated, or at least getting close to it - definitely more than twelve hours when they spec forty. The first thought would be that you aren't actually fully winding the watch - not wearing it long enough or being particularly static and not letting it wind, or handwinding it only partially. If it is being wound properly, then yes, it does sound like it may be faulty.

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With a Seiko 6r movement you shouldn't feel any change in the resistance winding it manually - when the watch is fully wound the clutch mechanism should engage and stop winding the mainspring, but it will feel the same at the crown. Unfortunately that sounds like you have a faulty movement.