Watches, what's your limit?

AsSiMiLaTeD
AsSiMiLaTeD Posts: 11,726
edited April 2011 in The Clubhouse
Seeing a couple threads on here and having just received a new watch from my wife for Valentine's day got me to thinking...

What's your price limit for how much you'll typically spend on a watch? I don't mean that one watch that you've always wanted or saved up for, I mean how much you'd typically walk into a store and plop down on a watch.

Every hobby (or whatever you want to call buying watches) has a point of diminishing returns, I'm just curious where that point is for others out there.

My price range tops out at around $300, give or take a few bucks - so I'm in the Citizen Eco-Drive, Seiko, Bulova, Invicta categories. That's about the price where anything more than that just doesn't offer enough more in the way of looks or functionality to warrant the extra coin. Some would argue the same about a $300 vs a $100 one, but $300 is the price where you seem to get things like better components, sapphire crystal, etc more frequently.

I'm not saying there aren't watches more than $300 that don't look better (I do have one expensive Tag that i saved up for and wouldn't trade it) or that watches less than $300 are all ugly and don't work (I've got a dozen or so Fossil watches that all look great and cost $100 or less), I'm just saying that generally, that's the top of my budget.

I have about 25 watches right now, of which I really only wear about 10. 15 of those are pretty cheap though, they're mostly Fossil brand all at under $100 a pop except for the 2 titanium models which I paid more for. Then I have 4 Invicta watches that I paid around $200 each for. Then I've got a couple each Citizen Eco Drives and Seiko Kinetics that were in the $300 range. Finally I have my beloved Tag Heuer Aquaracer Automatic that I'll be buried in

I need to go through and thin out my collection, but that's for another day. I was just curious what other people out there pay for watches...
Post edited by AsSiMiLaTeD on
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Comments

  • exalted512
    exalted512 Posts: 10,735
    edited February 2011
    Mine was about $400. Doubles as a cell phone:tongue:
    -Cody
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  • coolsax
    coolsax Posts: 1,824
    edited February 2011
    most of mine are in the under $100 though i have a 10 year old Seiko that was 250 on sale when I bought. I would really like a Movado watch someday.
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  • nadams
    nadams Posts: 5,877
    edited February 2011
    Last time I bought a watch, I think it cost $25. I've had a cell phone for the last 6 years... haven't had a watch since then.
    Ludicrous gibs!
  • AsSiMiLaTeD
    AsSiMiLaTeD Posts: 11,726
    edited February 2011
    I went through a long period from about the time I graduated in 1996 to about 4 years ago where I never wore a watch, always had one on my cell phone. For some reason, I bought a watch about 4 years ago and now I can't leave home without wearing one, I feel naked.

    I can't really name a scenario where I'd ever NEED a watch and not have my cell phone handy, but I've just got to have one on my wrist, not sure why. I don't do jewelry, no wedding band or necklaces or anything of the sort, so not sure why I need a watch. I think it's just a way of having jewelry but convincing myself it's more 'manly' :-)
  • newrival
    newrival Posts: 2,017
    edited February 2011
    250 is my max for just buying a fashion watch. and typically a little lower. but anything over 250 i will put on my list of things to save for.
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  • JimAckley
    JimAckley Posts: 1,138
    edited February 2011
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  • Toolfan66
    Toolfan66 Posts: 17,221
    edited February 2011
    Don't wear them.

    Sal!!! $1600!!!! Really??? I would never spend that much on one...
  • obieone
    obieone Posts: 5,077
    edited February 2011
    $0. I haven't worn a watch in seven years. There are clock's on everything nowadays.

    TV's/ cableguide's
    PC's/ laptop's
    Cell phones,
    stoves
    vehicles
    coffee makers
    GPS

    Seems kind of illogical to buy something, when it's sole fuction has been incorporated into everything else?
    I refuse to argue with idiots, because people can't tell the DIFFERENCE!
  • RuSsMaN
    RuSsMaN Posts: 17,987
    edited February 2011
    Big fan of Skagen, great styling, accurate, reliable and you can get a *nice* watch for around $200. That's about my limit. I could collect watches one day, I have about 6 right now, none real expensive, but some vintage cool stuff.

    EVERY guy needs 2 watches, imo. A rugged chrono will bells and whistles for work, and a tasteful 'out to dinner' watch.

    Cheers,
    Russ
    Check your lips at the door woman. Shake your hips like battleships. Yeah, all the white girls trip when I sing at Sunday service.
  • RuSsMaN
    RuSsMaN Posts: 17,987
    edited February 2011
    I don't think $1600 is out of line, if you can afford it. Timepeices are kind of like cars, some people can afford it and enjoy it. Most everyone here that's married (or has been) probably spent that or much much more on that little ring. At least a watch is mechanical, moving parts, timing, precision, it's engineered.

    At the end of the day, it's a luxury item. Like good bourbon, a sports car, a swag leather jacket. If you like it, and want it, treat yourself.

    For me, if I had $1600 to spend, and needed a watch, I'd be looking for that $100 chronograph, and a $1500 tube amp. ;)

    Cheers,
    Russ
    Check your lips at the door woman. Shake your hips like battleships. Yeah, all the white girls trip when I sing at Sunday service.
  • cokewithvanilla
    cokewithvanilla Posts: 1,777
    edited February 2011
    For me? $0

    Why carry anymore useless things when you've got a phone?

    besides, they bother my wrist.
  • JimAckley
    JimAckley Posts: 1,138
    edited February 2011
    For me, if I had $1600 to spend, and needed a watch, I'd be looking for that $100 chronograph, and a $1500 tube amp. ;)

    +1, except it would be a 7ch amp, or an I-Tech for my LFE project.
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  • RuSsMaN
    RuSsMaN Posts: 17,987
    edited February 2011
    I don't know, my dad was never wealthy, but always extremely polished. He told me the first things he looks at when he ever met another man, as a key to the man's character are:

    His handshake. His haircut. His shoes. His watch.

    Not that they had to be expensive or over the top, just 'put together' if that makes sense.
    Check your lips at the door woman. Shake your hips like battleships. Yeah, all the white girls trip when I sing at Sunday service.
  • grimmace19
    grimmace19 Posts: 1,429
    edited February 2011
    I got an amazing Oakley watch from my wife for a wedding gift back in september. Carbon fibre face ... $550 I think... first watch I've had and enjoyed ever.
  • schwarcw
    schwarcw Posts: 7,335
    edited February 2011
    RuSsMaN wrote: »
    I don't know, my dad was never wealthy, but always extremely polished. He told me the first things he looks at when he ever met another man, as a key to the man's character are:

    His handshake. His haircut. His shoes. His watch.

    Not that they had to be expensive or over the top, just 'put together' if that makes sense.

    Smart man. I would add eye contact and manners during the greetings.

    Unfortunately, a lot of the elements of class are lost in society today.
    Carl

  • fatchowmein
    fatchowmein Posts: 2,637
    edited February 2011
    Same as OP. About $300. Some Citizen Eco-Drives, some automatics that were far, far below retail. Beyond $300, it becomes a high ticket item that needs approval from the missus and serious thought to whether I want to part with my hard earn money. Besides, what I really find interesting usually comes with a $3,000+ tag on it and I quickly lose interest.
  • kawizx9r
    kawizx9r Posts: 5,150
    edited February 2011
    My GF spent $600 on my Bulova.

    Next to it is the Seiko that was replaced, spent $400+ on sale. I was actually planning on giving away the Seiko here however I didn't think it was worth it since it has it's fair share of scratches (4+years old) and I'm missing some links I had taken off.

    If enough interest is shown, I don't mind holding a karma. Though I'd have to look for the extra links otherwise you'll have to buy your own wristband for it.

    SNV13339.jpg

    SNV13359.jpg

    Edit: She says it was 5xx, won't tell me exactly but I know the base price (w/o tax) was around 540 or so.
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  • RuSsMaN
    RuSsMaN Posts: 17,987
    edited February 2011
    Hell Carl, last time I popped by my dads with a sportcoat on to drop off some mail (headed to a local rehearsal dinner, he lives on a different street, but same house number and last name), he asked what time my flight was leaving and where I was traveling....

    Different generation, and I love it.
    Check your lips at the door woman. Shake your hips like battleships. Yeah, all the white girls trip when I sing at Sunday service.
  • jbooker82
    jbooker82 Posts: 1,627
    edited February 2011
    150 bucks on a Fossil watch 6 years ago. Still going strong.
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  • schwarcw
    schwarcw Posts: 7,335
    edited February 2011
    RuSsMaN wrote: »
    Hell Carl, last time I popped by my dads with a sportcoat on to drop off some mail (headed to a local rehearsal dinner, he lives on a different street, but same house number and last name), he asked what time my flight was leaving and where I was traveling....

    Different generation, and I love it.

    That's funny!

    Years ago I went to visit my father in the hospital wearing a business suit, dress shoes. His surgeon walked in, I offered to shake his hand and he asked me if I was a lawyer.
    Carl

  • Tony M
    Tony M Posts: 11,146
    edited February 2011
    RuSsMaN wrote: »
    I don't know, my dad was never wealthy, but always extremely polished. He told me the first things he looks at when he ever met another man, as a key to the man's character are:

    His handshake. His haircut. His shoes. His watch.

    Not that they had to be expensive or over the top, just 'put together' if that makes sense.

    Those are things to look for , for sure. I kind-of look at those at first meetings to. Shoe laces tied?
    But now the watchs of this time is that Droid that he just switched over to his left hand to shake my hand with his right hand.People everywhere I look almost, are carring the phone in one of their hands and or are talking on em.

    Constant communication is now a human behavior!!! and what will come from it. You heard it hear tonight folks. CCS disease. s=syndrome
    Most people just listen to music and watch movies. I EXPERIENCE them.
  • RuSsMaN
    RuSsMaN Posts: 17,987
    edited February 2011
    Shoes polished and tight, he is an Army man. Forget brand or style, $10 high and tight > $200 sloppy and dirty.
    Check your lips at the door woman. Shake your hips like battleships. Yeah, all the white girls trip when I sing at Sunday service.
  • Tony M
    Tony M Posts: 11,146
    edited February 2011
    Oh, my limit has been 150.00 in my life so far.

    Now a friend has a Sector that I can't get off my mind. 320.00 I think he wants. Yeh, it has a pretty dark blue face too.:wink:
    Most people just listen to music and watch movies. I EXPERIENCE them.
  • Toxis
    Toxis Posts: 5,116
    edited February 2011
    I have a titanium fossil watch that I got in an outlet for 80 instead of 140-150 regular. Love the look of the watch but I HATE having anything on my wrist so it bugs more than anything. Sucks because I love the look of a watch. It can make a good looking outfit look amazing; I just can't stand the feeling. I've tried and tried but never. Sorry! No can do. I'll keep my iPhone on me at all times.
    Never kick a fresh **** on a hot day.

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  • billbillw
    billbillw Posts: 6,742
    edited February 2011
    I can get excited about a new watch, but I don't think I have ever spent more than $250 on one. I tend to prefer the sturdy utilitarian diver type watches and keep them for a long time. I currently wear an Invicta 9937 coin edge which is a pretty good Rolex knockoff and has the ubiquitous 25 jewel ETA Swiss movement. Had it for about 2.5 years now. I still have a nice 10+ year old ESQ chronograph that I bought myself for my 30th B-day as well. Its been in a box since I got the Invicta, but someday, it will be used again. I'll probably give it to my son when he is a teenager. That thing held amazing time. Never more than a second off in a month.

    You can get a really nice timepiece for under $250 if you shop the sales/deals. I don't see any reason to ever go much higher in price.


    still have an ESQ that I bought myself for my 30th birthday. I think I got it on sale for just under $200.

    Toxis: I'm just the opposite. I've been wearing a watch consistently for sooo many years, I feel slightly naked when I don't have my watch on.
    For rig details, see my profile. Nothing here anymore...
  • Willow
    Willow Posts: 11,007
    edited February 2011
    Well the first real watch I bought was my ESQ titanium. I paid 800$ about 12yrs ago. Most of my other watches were gifts or cheaper ones I bought usually in the 100-200$ range. Now if it all works out I (my wife) will be buying me NOTASUV's TAG. I love watches, always have, always will, they are like art/fashion/hobby to me.
  • Sherardp
    Sherardp Posts: 8,038
    edited February 2011
    My most expensive one with diamond bezel was 5K. I can count on both hands how many times I've worn it. I'm not a rapper so I don't need the bright watch. Nice to have though.
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  • indyhawg
    indyhawg Posts: 1,642
    edited February 2011
    300 is my limit. I almost always wear a watch. Tight now I have 3 in the rotation, a Seiko, Fossil, and a Citizen.
  • indyhawg
    indyhawg Posts: 1,642
    edited February 2011
    schwarcw wrote: »
    That's funny!

    Years ago I went to visit my father in the hospital wearing a business suit, dress shoes. His surgeon walked in, I offered to shake his hand and he asked me if I was a lawyer.

    Now that is funny!
  • NotaSuv
    NotaSuv Posts: 3,849
    edited February 2011
    Guilty of spending a lot more than most for a nice watch..had have a few other Tags and before that had a sweet blue faced Rolex Submariner when I was teaching SCUBA..should have never sold it...............