Help me pick out a watch

[InPa]

No quartz movements and I prefer a leather band. Â Some potentials include: Zenith Port-Royal Elite Dual Time and Bell & Ross Thanks.

 

[MilanoStyle]

i like B & S better. It looks simple and more elegant. However, I advise you to try them on in a store before making the purchase. Sturdy casing is must for a good watch.

 

[imageWIS]

What about a UN: http://www.watchclick.com/ulysse-....31.html or an Omega Speedmaster? http://www.watchclick.com/omega/i-om...-men-1375.html http://www.watchclick.com/omega/i-om...-men-1160.html Jon.

 

[kitonbrioni]

No contest--the Zenith.

 

[CarsonInMaryland]

Definitely a Zenith. Superior pedigree, not to mention the movement. Below is another suggestion. http://www.prestigetime.com/item.php?item_id=3177 Carson

 

[Panzeraxe]

I agree - the Zenith is definitely better. What about one of these:

1. Maurice Lacroix Masterpiece Calender Retrogade
2. Baume & Mercier Capeland
3. Bedat No. 7
4. Glashutte Power Reserve ($2.6K from CollectorsTime)
5. Frederique Constant Calender Moonphase
6. Maurice Lacroix Masterpiece Croneo

Panzer

 

[rsp1]

I own the Zenith Port Royal Elite and have been very happy with it.

 

[Matt]

add my vote to the Zenith

 

[sashae]

Ulysse-Nardin 1846 Marine Chronometer. Of the two you posted, definitely the Zenith.

 

[T4phage]

A simple but storied watch: IWC Pilot Spitfire

 

[benchan]

The IWC Portofino Automatic is worth considering as well in this price range. The Zenith seems to be of great value though. Is it being dumped by the LVMH or Richemont group? Coz I remember there was a pretty steep pricehike a few yrs ago after the acquisition.

 

[matadorpoeta]

if you're in europe or have friends there, check out UNION by glashutte.

 

[drizzt3117]

I would second the suggestion for the Pilot Watch spitfire, although the Zenith watches are outstanding as well.

 

[Panzeraxe]

The IWC Portofino Automatic is worth considering as well in this price range. The Zenith seems to be of great value though. Is it being dumped by the LVMH or Richemont group? Coz I remember there was a pretty steep pricehike a few yrs ago after the acquisition.

Good call on the IWC - that's a great watch for the price - you can get it easily for less than $2K on the net.

Zenith is now owned by LVMH.

Panzer

 

[norcaltransplant]

My 2 cents...
I consider IWC and Zenith heavily in my "budget" search (~$1k vs. 2-2.5k). The IWC offers better brand recognition and reatin their value accordingly, while Zenith is a manufacturer first and foremost. Personally, I think your best bet would be to buy an El Primero in the second-hand market or search for a deal on a UN or Glashutte. I would also pass on the Bedat and Baume & Mercier (I would have a hard time spending more than 1-1.5k on B&M when you can buy a Capeland at Costco, no joke).

Actually, I think the first step in your buying process should be a trip to Tourneau to investigate different brands.