Background: I've come from various low end Divers, mainly Seiko's Monster, 3 x SKX007/009's and an Orient Mako (which I flipped almost immediately). I'm looking to take a small step up to the next level. With a budget of up to £500, maybe a little more if something really grabs me. I want something with presence, I love my SKX007, but feel it's a little short lug to lug. My wrist is 7-7.25" depending on the season.
I've been considering the Seiko Sumo SBDC031 or 033 @ £280ish, but although it's tried and tested I kinda fancy moving away from Seiko after having had quite a few.
The Certina DS Action Diver Auto. @ £550ish. Not had chance to see this in the metal yet.
Steinhart Ocean Titanium 500 Premium @ £450ish. I do like this one, would rather try on first, which can't happen with Steinhart. Worried a little about lightweight of titanium.
Armida A1 45mm @ £410ish (15% off currently). Again, being a micro brand no chance of try before you buy. I do love this watch, but possibly too much presence, if that's possible.
Any thoughts, or alternative suggestions gratefully received.
I think you'll not go wrong with the steinhart,you can probably get a cwc around that price,never had one but heard good things
Helson Shark diver 42mm can't get more presence than that... the bracelet is better than on some 3k+ watches and its way under your budget ... also due to Chinese new year they will ship on 18th of feb, but you will get an extra 10% off... seriously you wont regret it.
Also, if Helson doesn't tickle your fancy have a look at Helberg and H2O watches made in Germany by Clemens... they are fantastic quality and original designs not like steinhart...
Yiu can also configure it to your likes from the sapphire domed or flat to the hands, bezel etc...
Last edited by silly; 7th February 2016 at 22:11.
If I had £500 to spare and was looking for an automatic diver, it would be the Steinhart Triton 100 ATM Black.
I like all of your options except for the Armida. I'm a huge Seiko fan but given the choice I'd go for the Certina because the quality will be excellent and looks wise it's a little different. I kicked myself for not picking one up on SC last year.
Good luck.
I'm not keen on the Steinhart Triton, but thanks for the suggestion.
What about a nice Longines Hydroconquest?
I've fallen in love with the Halios Delfin: http://halioswatches.com/halios-delfin/
Unfortunately, I've already got a Steinhart Ocean 44 and Obris Morgan Aegis on order so probably shouldn't buy any watch yet. I am tempted though.
Yeah, my worry is that it will be 'too much' and end up looking a little ridiculous. It's so difficult when you can't try them on. My original 'easy' option was the Sumo, similar to my much loved SKX divers but bigger with more presence and a step up in quality in all areas. But I started doubting myself.
Ouch £249 was a good deal.
Does anyone know if the Soprod in the Steinhart is worth a premium over the usual Miyota 9015/Eta 2824-2 movements in watches in the pricepoint?
Surprised nobody has suggested any of Eddie's range yet. The Smiths PRS-68 or the Precista PRS-3 are both excellent watches within your budget. However, wait for a couple of months and get 50 posts under your belt, and you should be able to pick up a used Dreadnought Voyager for about £500. Now that watch has presence...
I would have a look at Borealis as well. I'm quite tempted by the pre-order price for the new Bull Shark model. No delivery until november though.
That's quite tasty, is it a blasted finish?
Yes, bead blasted. All the specs here: http://www.timefactors.com/dreadnought.htm
Dammit, nobody has jumped in and said "Get the Sumo, it's a great watch, meets your requirements and you'll be very happy with it!"
Another vote for the Dreadnought Voyager. I have one and they're a fantastic watch for the money with great presence.
Go vintage, you could get a mint serviced depreciation proof 6309 7040 for your budget and have change, loads of presence too.
Cheers..
Jase
How about a squale 1521.They look good and have a nice retro look. The company has a genuine diving history.
Benarus Moray 42mm?
When I found myself in the same situation I went for this 2nd hand Marathon GSAR.
Revue Thommen Diver, very very hard to beat at this price point. Proper swiss maker with a long history.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Revue-Thomme.../dp/B002GP7IKW
ktmog6uk
marchingontogether!
I've had a few 45mm Armida A1s & IMO it's a fantastic watch. It has great presence without being too big due to its lug-to-lug length of 50mm. The one negative for me though is the sapphire bezel. I much preferred the original matte finish of the first generation bezel with the incredible lume. I think the 42mm A1 has this type of bezel.
The Dievas Vintage range come up every now and again c£500 used? 47mm