Watch me go back to the drawing board...WATCH CHOICE

[bespokewheels]

OK, so after reading some wonderfully informative posts on this forum, I am at a loss for what watch to buy.

I want ONE watch that I can wear in most situations. It has to be stainless. The face can be black or white, but I don't want gold anywhere. Maximum spend is 6000USD.

I do like the look of the Omega Aqua Terra, IWC Portuguese, an the Rolex Sea-Dweller. I am not a brand snob, but rather I like quality products that will last, and I can love forever.

Hopefully you all can steer me in that direction. Thank you!

Cheers.

 

[bmulford]

GO Senator series is remarkably well -made, has a number of stainless steel models and generally flexible.

 

[Mr. Moo]

Don't see how the Omega Speedmaster wouldn't fit your criteria. Probably the most well made, versatile watch under $3k. http://www.watchesonnet.com/3570.50.html?id_partner=4

 

[anon]

I love the IWC Portuguese, especially for an all-around watch.

 

[rioni]

+1
I love my speedmaster and seamaster watches. Check timezone.com to get them for more than 50% off.

Originally Posted by Mr. Moo

Don't see how the Omega Speedmaster wouldn't fit your criteria. Probably the most well made, versatile watch under $3k.

http://www.watchesonnet.com/3570.50.html?id_partner=4

 

[East Oakland]

All three are excellent watches.

The Omega represents the best dollar/value ratio. You can often find Omegas at a discount as well, particularly from unauthorized dealers. My favorite is Bernard Watch (http://www.bernardwatch.com/Omega), though they may not have the watch you are looking for. I have bought a couple of watches from them, both were genuine and in the condition advertised.

IMO, the IWC is the most beautiful of the three, and it is the one I would most like to own if cost were no object. Unlike a lot of the other manufacturers that use ETA movements, IWC spends a lot of time refinishing and upgrading the ETA movements they use.

If you are not a brand snob, the Rolex should probably be at the bottom of your list. It's a good watch, but the dollar/value ratio is the worst of the three you list. People will tell you that the Rolex has the best resale value, etc., but if you buy it new and actually wear it and scratch it up, you won't be able to sell it for more than a fraction of what you paid for it. Plus, it is less unique than the IWC--Rolexes are everywhere.

 

[ArliHawk`]

Aqua Terra and Portuguese would be my choice; either of those would suit your purposes.

 

[bespokewheels]

Thank you for all the replies!

 

[TheFoo]

IWC Portuguese 5001, black dial. I love mine to death.

 

[greekonomist]

Originally Posted by bmulford

GO Senator series is remarkably well -made, has a number of stainless steel models and generally flexible.

+1, my appreciation for them keeps growing...I may have to get one.

 

[Jacksdad]

have you looked at Panerai? Most versatile watch available imo

 

[Augustus Davies]

Here's a nice all stainless steel circa 1973 Hamilton MOD British Military watch manual wind with fixed bars.
I get more compliments on this watch than I do on my Megaquartz IWC Ingenieur alarm chrono. And it cost only $250.00

 

[TRINI]

At the risk of sounding cliche, go with the one that stirs the most feeling in you.

When you're paying that much money, you should love the watch.

 

[0b5cur1ty]

Originally Posted by triniboy27

At the risk of sounding cliche, go with the one that stirs the most feeling in you.

When you're paying that much money, you should love the watch.
+1. You've picked out three solid options that meet your own criteria, within your own budget.

The Omega and Rolex are much closer to each other stylistically than they are to the Portuguese (though that's hardly an objection if you like all three) and bear in mind the IWC is quite big if you want something that will fit under a sleeve cuff. A more comperable IWC might be the Mk XVI pilot's watch.

If you're looking for more offbeat suggestions, then there are hundreds of options... The GO suggestion is not my thing personally but they are undoubtedly well made with excellent movement finishing. You could also look at Grand Seiko for a superbly made and finished 'stealth wealth' option in this price class (though this will mean ordering from a dealer in Japan or going to one of the two Seiko boutiques in Europe). Lastly, it is impossible for me to leave a watch thread without telling you to look at Nomos - specifically the Club models, which fit your stainless steel / goes with anything requirements, offer a choice of dark or light dial and are way under the budget limit.

Happy hunting - remember to post what you get!

 

[acidboy]

+1 on the last 2 posts above. there is no "one watch to rule them all" we could all pitch in and agree on one watch there, or we could all suggest different watches but what matters most is you getting the watch that you feel gives you more bang for your buck and that you really really like. Whatever you choose is alright- besides you can always sell it later if you don't feel like keeping whatever you will buy anymore.