Watches - another OCD problem

[bertoni]

Thinking of taking the plunge and getting myself a decent watch for my 'gulp' 40th.
I don't have much experience with watches (got a sturdy silver metal G-Shock right now…love it) and am looking at spending no
more than 1000-1200 euros. Ideally i'd like something solid (don't want a primadonna watch that scratches easy)
and that looks good with tan leather, silver and rubber straps.
I've seen the Sinn U1, the Steinhart Triton Black (sold out goddam it!) and the Marathon GSAR so far.
Anyone care to point me in the direction of any other worthy contenders?
Would really appreciate the help.
Thanks

[hectic]

Check out:

Damasko
Seiko (marine master- high end variations)
Kemmner
Christopher Ward (maybe)
Hamilton
Oris divers

[hectic]

I'm 40 this year as well, perhaps I should do the same…

[barun]

my favorite of my many watches.  I used to be addicted to watches but lately my tastes have switched more towards Iron Heart and similar things that drain my bank account

[hectic]

Got this official Casio strap for my gw5600:

[hectic]

[zhivago]

My daily driver is a Tag Heuer. Not so fancy you mind if it gets a scratch or two on the bezel, but still classy.  Pretty classic styling in my opinion as well.

[derivative666]

Beautiful Panerai

[Chris]

Definitely check out Damasko if you're looking for tough.  Downside there is that the company is seriously small production; last I heard, there was more than a year wait.  I'd also recommend Fortis, Stowa, Kobold and as a total curve ball, the 300 meter dive watch by Orient (yellow dial, specifically).  Kobold watches might be out of your stated range, depending on current exchange rates, but the rest should be ok.

[Jii]

@Chris:

as a total curve ball, the 300 meter dive watch by Orient (yellow dial, specifically)

Seconded. Amazing watch, in my personal top 5 of dive watches. The black dial is nice as well but the yellow is pure sex. Japanese domestic model though which makes it a bit trickier to get your hands on. Don't have one but may have to get one eventually..

[Giles]

http://www.orientalwatchsite.com/forum/index.php?/topic/6142-orient-star-300m-professional-diver-wz0251fd/

[bertoni]

Wow thanks for all the replies guys. Just read them all with interest. Not got round to checking your suggestions yet but will do.
Do it Hectic, try and tear yourself away from the powerful pull of G-shock…just for the hell of it!
I have to admit I LOVE mine...tough and beautiful...just like the wife
The Sinn U1 ticks all the right boxes except I haven't fallen in love with it....and at this price it has to be love!

[hectic]

@berty - the U1 comes in a few variations, there is one with a black bezel that you may like.

[hectic]

Also: http://www.seiyajapan.com/c=e08B6x9A0o1VFELA2sSY5mTNG/category/2_seiko_mechanical/

[bertoni]

Thanks for that Hectic! Damn some of them G-shocks are lovely ???….will look at the Sinn site now before I buy another feckin Casio!.

[rocket]

@rocket:

[bertoni]

I was waiting for you to show up mate My german taste double no less. It was you that put me onto these.
I love the build, toughness, price but just can't see it with a vintage leather strap. I may come round mind Any other ideas?

[hectic]

berty: http://tz-uk.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=175427

[bertoni]

Thanks for the link. Yeah it looks pretty nice….i'm not blown away though :-\ It's not an easy task this watch buying business!
I'd LOVE a Panerai but that ain't NEVER gonna happen. Shiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiit.

[rocket]

know what you mean, as Hectic posted it possible to rock them with a leather strap, but I'm not really sold to that…but they go well with a nato imo

do not really have ideas that fit in the budget, to buy one of the many watch magazines or catalogues that are around in newsagents might bring some more input as well...