What chronograph would you buy for £2k-£3k?

**Roustov** · 3rd March 2015, 22:10

I am looking for a new or second hand watch and I think I am looking for a chronograph. I quite like the look of the omega speedmaster professional (005) and also the frederique constant manufacture classic. However it would be great to find out what other people would go for in my situation as it will help open my eyes (I'm a bit of a newbie to appreciating watches). So what would you get?

I currently have a hamilton Jazzmaster day date auto and also a citizen ecodrive bracelet watch.

Also where would you look?

**Tom-P** · 3rd March 2015, 22:20

A good s/h Speedmaster Mark II in the grey, eg

http://www.watchfinder.co.uk/Omega/S...680/item/42558

**pete-r** · 3rd March 2015, 22:21

Speedy Pro or El Primero are the two I would go for.

If you want something from left field maybe a Tudor Heritage Chrono?

**zelig** · 3rd March 2015, 22:23

Depends on what you want.
If you want a bit of horological history, try a Zenith El Primero Rainbow Flyback ...

Designed from the outset to be the most accurate automatic Chrono movement.

It was in 1962 that the basics of the El Primero movement first took shape on the drawing board. The idea was simple: to create an iconic watch that would be launched in time for the centenary of the Manufacture in 1965. The idea was simple, but the technical specifications were not. It was to be the first automatic chronograph ever. Better still, the caliber was to be fully integrated and designed as an inseparable whole. There would be no additional module, but instead a construction built around a column wheel and a central rotor mounted on ball bearings. It would also need to beat at a high frequency in order to be the world’s most accurate chronograph. To complicate matters still further, the movement was to be miniaturised and equipped with a date mechanism. All these factors amounted to an equation so complex that it would take seven years to solve it – four years past the anniversary date.

Also avallable in black/white if the Rainbow colours bother you.
Chronomaster had one in stock recently.

z

**W44NNE** · 3rd March 2015, 22:28

Omega Speedmaster, TAG Heuer 1887, El Primero, Breitling of some sort, Longines Chrono... all depends what you're looking for the watch to fulfil OP :-)

**Roustov** · 3rd March 2015, 22:30

Zelig - thanks I like the zeniths so they are a real possibility however I don't know if a 45 would be too big. How big should my wrists be for it?

**zelig** · 3rd March 2015, 22:36

Originally Posted by Roustov

Zelig - thanks I like the zeniths so they are a real possibility however I don't know if a 45 would be too big. How big should my wrists be for it?

Very good point... & another reason the Zenith is a good choice IMHO.

Dimensions are 40 mm excluding crown, 43 mm including crown, 48 mm lug to lug and 14 mm thick.

For my 7.25" wrist it's just the right size, unlike some 7750 based model which are often >45mm.

Beware though, newer models are much larger.

z

**pete-r** · 3rd March 2015, 22:36

The Zenith Rainbow range is 40mm.

If you like the Fred Constant Classic chrono but want the quality of the El primero, look at the rainbow (non flyback) it's less sporty and more of a hybrid depending on it being on a bracelet or strap.

Here's the one I have, set it on Christmas Eve and it's still bang on accurate.

**GOAT** · 3rd March 2015, 22:45

The ones I have liked most recently are the GP sport chrono that was on sc about 10 days ago and also the Sinn Klassik that just sold
really liked both of those

**learningtofly** · 3rd March 2015, 22:54

^^^ The Sinn 103 range is very underrated, IMO. Wonderful watches.

**Gav** · 3rd March 2015, 23:17

£3k to spend look no further

http://forum.tz-uk.com/showthread.ph...riginal-papers

**Captainhowdy** · 3rd March 2015, 23:19

I'd have to say I'd go for a Crosswind, they can be found well under £3k.

**Lampoc** · 3rd March 2015, 23:39

How about a Heuer Autavia of some sort?

**DrBox** · 3rd March 2015, 23:45

I don't think you can look past a Speedmaster to be honest.

**PJ S** · 3rd March 2015, 23:48

I knew there was one I forgot......http://forums.watchuseek.com/f29/fso...i-1616138.html

**itsgotournameonit** · 4th March 2015, 00:00

Omega Aqua Terra or Planet Ocean.

**mk1974** · 4th March 2015, 00:03

As above

**Dave O'Sullivan** · 4th March 2015, 00:07

You could get either one of these second hand for a wedge less that £2K

Or this for a touch over £2k

Owned them all and would recommend them :)

**Mr Curta** · 4th March 2015, 01:34

I would buy a Speedy Pro but I have to admit that the Heuer Autavia selection below are all very nice indeed, and I love that Breitling 806.

**Neil Y** · 4th March 2015, 01:39

I would say speedy the first Omega in space.
http://www.omegawatches.com/collecti...31132403001001
£2720 here
http://www.swisswatchesdirect.co.uk/...FWHMtAodsksA-w

**jk103** · 4th March 2015, 04:16

I would buy the one I liked! Get out and visit some watch shops to get a better feel for the offerings. I think where used or new isn't a issue you have a huge range to choose from.

**HappyJack** · 4th March 2015, 07:59

I live my Speedy Pro; having said whig, for practical use I prefer chronos with a central minute hand - much easier to read at a glance than the 30-minute sub-dial display. For that money I'd be looking at something in Titanium - at the lower end of your price range, the Breitling M1 (quartz); at the upper end, the Sinn EZM1 or the Fortis Cosmonaut LE, with the Lemania 5100 movement (Fortis on the right in the picture, below, possible for sale too, so I can trade for a Rolex):

**magirus** · 4th March 2015, 08:13

If you only "think" you want a chrono then I would take even longer on your search and question whether you want a chrono at all. However, if that's your desire then you might take a look a Damasko and Sinn for the more toolish style of watch. Both have good websites and can be bought via reputable dealers in the UK (Page and Cooper / Chronomaster) You might even have enough change for a non chrono too! The case hardening of Damasko and Sinn means your watch will look good many years from now, assuming you don't get infected by the horrid and deadly flipperitis parasite. ;-)

**pearlwhite67** · 4th March 2015, 08:32

Originally Posted by Roustov

I am looking for a new or second hand watch and I think I am looking for a chronograph. I quite like the look of the omega speedmaster professional (005) and also the frederique constant manufacture classic. However it would be great to find out what other people would go for in my situation as it will help open my eyes (I'm a bit of a newbie to appreciating watches). So what would you get?

I currently have a hamilton Jazzmaster day date auto and also a citizen ecodrive bracelet watch.

Also where would you look?

Not necessarily to purchase but certainly to browse id look at watchfinder. They have a big stock and lots of pieces from lots of makers. So you can compare the look and prices.

As an alternative to a watch with as many hands and dials on it as possible have you looked at a few things on the other end of the spectrum? Things like Omega railmaster, rolex explorer 1.

Its a matter of personal taste of course. Many love the chrono look. If thats where you are heading id give a +1 to the el primero. Just dont overlook some of the great non chrono watches out there before you make your choice.

**Riley** · 4th March 2015, 09:54

Speedy MK2 Racing, PO, Autavia plus the Zenith, Monaco etc.
Lucky boy, go and try a few on and have fun choosing.

Or you could look at the boutique brands and get 2 or 3 for that money.

Speedy MK2 for me today, ask me tomorrow and it will be a different answer. That's what this forum does to you.

**Andy H** · 4th March 2015, 10:15

Good shout for the Omega PO. There´s a nice Breitling Avenger chrono titanium in the sales corner.

**scooter** · 4th March 2015, 10:20

I don't own a chronograph but I guess I would lean towards the Speedy.

Like you though, I feel that a bit of research into other possibilities would be a good idea.

scooter

**tsunami** · 4th March 2015, 10:21

I would be looking for a Tudor Big Block.

**snowman** · 4th March 2015, 10:23

You could get a lovely vintage Breitling Navitimer for that - I'd consider that option personally.

Omega Speedmaster Professional is a bit of a no-brainer, too, if you don't mind a hand winder (and limited WR) and Sinn make some cracking Chronos in your budget.

Lots of other good options here, though, just depends what you want.

M.

**DB9yeti** · 4th March 2015, 10:24

Originally Posted by tsunami

I would be looking for a Tudor Big Block.

Actually a very good shout - I missed out on one not too long ago and regret it. Lovely watch and more usable than a Daytona at 1/3 - 1/4 of the money or 1/10th the money if compared to the plexi versions!

**snowman** · 4th March 2015, 10:34

Originally Posted by DB9yeti

Actually a very good shout - I missed out on one not too long ago and regret it. Lovely watch and more usable than a Daytona at 1/3 - 1/4 of the money or 1/10th the money if compared to the plexi versions!

They are rather nice, I'd agree.

M.

**Roustov** · 4th March 2015, 10:40

Wow some great suggestions. I'll have to look into them a bit more and narrow down my search.

I really like the look of Omegas and Zeniths so I may sway towards them but have got to try them on.

Unfortunately I cannot see the Sales Corner and have another 50 days or so until I can.

Thanks for all the suggestions and recommendations so far

**andy111s** · 4th March 2015, 10:47

EZM1.

**Gomers** · 4th March 2015, 11:02

As a Speedmaster owner, I'd definitely recommend, iconic and with all that rich history.

For something a bit more rugged that you could take in water, Seamaster Chrono (either older 2599.80 or newer 2225.80) or Tag Heuer Aquagraph (these can be had for less than £1500 and have the central minute hand).

Anything with a 7750 movement will be solid and reliable in my experience.

Really, there's a whole lotta watches out there that will fit the bill, you need to get out there and try some after deciding what you want from the watch. Don't know if servicing costs will be an issue but I believe chonos with additional chronograph module (Tag above and the Tudor Heritage Chrono) are a bit more tricky to service and may attract additional costs.

**sweets** · 4th March 2015, 11:03

Some more tool-like options for you

There are currently 3 Bund-issued Tutima military chronos on Chrono24 for under £1200.

THAT is a bargain, and waaaaay undervalued (imho).

These things are big lumps and don't fit every situation, but for less than half the top end of your budget, there's also room for a full service and a second watch.

Slightly more presentable under a cuff, an Orfina Porche Design would also use a lot less of the budget.

I also think the Sinn EZM13 is a bargain (new, let alone used, about £1600 on rubber from Germany, bracelet £100 more).

Andy is right, the EZM1 is a cracker, but it is also every bit of your budget.

If I had none of my watches, but that budget, I would be looking at the above

Dave

**Dave+63** · 4th March 2015, 11:23

I quite like the Sinn144.

Jura are currently selling them new for £1350.

This one's a lot of watch for the money too.

http://forum.tz-uk.com/showthread.php?t=323481

**Nev** · 4th March 2015, 11:28

I have a soft spot for Navitimer

**tllw** · 4th March 2015, 11:33

I like a lot the Oris Artix GT chronograph range. Very well made watches and the linear seconds is cool.

**forpetesake** · 4th March 2015, 11:43

If you are looking for a 'tool watch' type chrono then you won't mind the clunky action of the pushers on a 7750. Have a look at the range from Epos before deciding.
If I was buying a 7750 watch today, I would be inclined to get one from the Swatch Group so parts availability is assured.
The Sellita SW500 is the 7750 alternative and I would investigate this option - I understand that Sinn offers it in some of their range.

If you are looking for a luxury chrono then you will expect the refined action of the pushers on a column wheel calibre.
I'm not best placed to comment any further.

**dice** · 4th March 2015, 11:44

If you don't mind a thicker watch, a Sinn 756 DIAPAL is a beauty.

Personally, for all round wear I'd go with a Speedmaster Pro. Its truly a timeless watch.

**Tom-P** · 4th March 2015, 11:45

Originally Posted by dice

Personally, for all round wear I'd go with a Speedmaster Pro. Its truly a timeless watch.

Though that's not really what you want in a watch.

I'll get me coat...

(Speedy Pro / Mark II for me, too.)

**Wibbs** · 4th March 2015, 12:05

You might look at some vintage pieces too. Like a Heuer BUND say

Or better yet keep your eyes peeled and for your upper end you might get the Leonidas original(issued to the Italian armed forces) that Heuer bought in.

Or one of the original 60's/70's Longines that they're doing re editions of today

2-3000 pounds of the realm would open a big door into the vintage market. With the advantage that it'll hold its value, if not rise over the years. Though I'm a vintage nutter so I would say that.

**PJ S** · 4th March 2015, 12:07

**Riley** · 4th March 2015, 12:20

See what I mean, now I'm all over those Longines Heritage cushion case!

Note to self.
Must stop Googling watches.

**endo** · 4th March 2015, 13:16

Originally Posted by Dave O'Sullivan

Or this for a touch over £2k

Owned them all and would recommend them :)

Have one of them, lovely watch and the older 3717 is a perfect size at 42mm, not too big and works well on a strap or nato (i have a bracelet as well, and as wonderful a piece of engineering as it is, its probably a tad bling for the style of the watch)

Originally Posted by zelig

Depends on what you want.
If you want a bit of horological history, try a Zenith El Primero Rainbow Flyback ...

I'd have one of these in a heartbeat if i can find a nice one.

**SSK007** · 4th March 2015, 13:23

Cant help but recommend a Speedmaster Pro.

**Aquavit** · 4th March 2015, 15:02

This:

**Andyg** · 4th March 2015, 15:19

Zenith El Primo (same DNA as the Rolex Daytona) or a GP Evo 3 or a Hanhart.

But ask yourself WHY??? Do you really need a Chrono?

I have had 3 and never used the Chono function once.

**abryant64** · 4th March 2015, 16:29

Speedy Pro is my vote!

**kaiserphoenix** · 4th March 2015, 17:00

This thread title just screams Speedmaster haha. It would definately be the one i would buy.

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