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Jun 13, 2015, 01:59 PM
#1
Member
40th musings (To vintage or not to vintage...)
Greetings all.
Firstly, let me apologize if you have already been subjected to my endless agonising on either "The other forum" or Instagram. My 40th is next year and I must be undertaking the most drawn out decision making process for any mid-tier watch ever...
I aim to spend around $2500-3000AUD (approx $1900-2300 USD currently) and, as a man of limited means, this will likely be the most I ever spend on a watch (except for maybe my 50th...). I'd like it to be a significant enough piece to mean something for some time and possibly be a worthwhile heirloom.
Current shortlist is:-
Sinn 356 Flieger.
I really love the look, feel and presence of this watch.
The size is about perfect at 38.5mm.
I have no real need for a chronograph but really dig the dial aesthetic.
It's a watch I feel I could wear pretty much anywhere, anytime.
Only possible negative is the ETA/Valjoux movement being available in so many watches (including many cheaper) may make it feel a bit less "special".
Nomos Tangente or Nomos Club.
Jury is out on which. The Tangente is beautiful but, realistically, I think the Club would suit my casual dress and lifestyle more - making it more versatile.
In-house movement and exquisite build quality are obvious draws here.
No real negatives. I just feel the Sinn would get more wear and may be a bit tougher?
Option 3 - The Vintage Choice.
There are a couple of options here that might just scrape into my budget incl: 60s Breitling Top Time, 60s/70s Datejust/Air King, 60s Omega Seamaster etc
This is where I need your help and advice. I see this as my only option to own a Rolex, Omega etc. If this is to be my only watch of that level, would it be silly to go vintage? Should I leave that to collectors who can afford models old and new? Is it going to be too delicate or temperamental to rely on everyday for years to come (like a vintage car)? Will service costs be prohibitive?
In short, am I better off sticking to a new or lightly used model in a more realistic price point for my means?
Tell me your thoughts...
Cheers, Mat.
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