Watches - another OCD problem
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The Ploprof is Fantastic, I have a soft spot for these watches new and old.
I've noticed, and I'm surprised you haven't got one of the new ones yet. It's a surprisingly light and comfortable watch in its new, titanium form.
I found a picture of the orange bezel version too.
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You're right- the orange bezel on the Ploprof is much better.
The Globemaster is nice, but I've never liked that bezel style.
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Sent my vintage original Swiss Army in for repairs, only to be told they are unable to repair since it is so old and parts are unavailable. They did however offer me a 30% discount on a new watch. I'm not looking to spend more than $3-400, since I hadn't planned to get a new watch. Any suggestions?
Just a bit outside your range, but I've always thought the Seiko SARB065 "Cocktail Time" is a fantastic looking watch, and it has an excellent reputation for quality (like all Seiko watches). If you're looking for something more casual, the Seiko SBDC033 "Sumo" is great. The retail on this is, admittedly, solidly above your range, but Seiko changed the model number and some minor details a couple of years ago, do you might be able to find an older "discontinued" one for less.
Another solid option would be the Orient Mako XL. Orient watches are very well made, especially considering how inexpensive they are. I seriously think the regular Mako, especially with the blue dial, is one of the best values in watchdom.
As for the Swiss Army options, I've never owned one, since I've never been a fan of their design, and I'm certainly no expert on the brand. That said, the Maverick looks solid, as does the Alliance. I'd probably go for the INOX Pro Diver, but I doubt that's an every day watch for most.
Finally, if you want something a bit more off the wall, then you could try a watch from Botta Design. Either my favorite, the UNO24 NEO, or the almost comically light and slightly less intimidating to read UNO. I keep planning to buy one of these, eventually.
Oh, and if you're willing to go into the used market, then the options open up even more. Watches can be a bit like cars in the depreciation drop from retail to secondhand. You can easily get sucked into a black hole of possibilities, should you choose to go down that route. There are also a few models that have very active modding communities dedicated to them, which would allow you to buy something inexpensive (Seiko SKX diver) and have its appearance utterly redone to a one of a kind piece and still stay under your budget. But that's another trap that will swallow the unwary whole…
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Erika's Originals are a one-woman (that'll be Erika) operation making some interesting watch straps. They came up on Fratello Watches today.
The MN Straps look good, and are similar to the fabric one supplied with the bronze Black Bay. Only these use genuine 1960s parachute braid.
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Geo Cramer has written a review of the Pinion Pure Bronze. Looks really nice.
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I get asked so many times what's the best watch to buy.
It's not an easy question to answer as the cost of the watch plays a major part to a certain point.
I the real world there are some great watches at a good price that are excellent value for money.
Seiko is a fantastic product at a great price and really takes some beating at the sub one thousand dollar mark.
Oris make some great products now and are certainly well worth a look.
Then for me it's Tudor with the Black Bay range.
As the price range increases you have to look at the Omega and Panerai for a beautiful range of products.
Finally Rolex with there steel sports watches.
Everybody's taste and opinions differ but in my opinion this Seiko at around five hundred dollars is a great buy.
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