What's Next?

Hi Watch Folks,

Looking for your thoughts on where my watch journey could go next. 

Basically, I am looking for something “more substantial” to replace the "every day watch" spot currently inhabited by my 36mm VAER C5 Tradition. 

I do like the C5, but it lacks the sense of history my other watches have, and I’m comfortable spending a little more ($1000-$1,500) to get something “nice” to always have my back.

The obvious choice would be an Explorer or OP, but they are out of my range. I considered finding a used Black Bay 36, though I haven’t been able to find them below 2,500, or perhaps a Seiko SARB. Mostly I was looking for newer as the rest of my collection is vintage and I wanted this to be a spot that wouldn’t be as temperamental as the antiques. 

My main checklist would be

  • Wears ‘vintage’ (34-38mm tops) 
  • Under $1,500
  • Steel bracelet 
  • Dependable / well made 
  • Understated, straightforward, not flashy design

Anything come to mind? 

Reply
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I'll start by saying you chose well with Vaer, they make cool watches at an affordable price.

My suggestion is the Christopher Ward C63 36mm, though the 39mm isn't massive either. 

Sport Watches | Christopher Ward

This is my 39mm C63, on a Colareb strap; 

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and on the CW strap it came with.

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KristianG

I'll start by saying you chose well with Vaer, they make cool watches at an affordable price.

My suggestion is the Christopher Ward C63 36mm, though the 39mm isn't massive either. 

Sport Watches | Christopher Ward

This is my 39mm C63, on a Colareb strap; 

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and on the CW strap it came with.

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Thanks! Yes the Vaer is great, I just have the inevitable imposter syndrome that comes with homage watches (more my problem than the manufacturer) Also it's physically just kind of light! 

The Wards are nice! I will take a closer look. I had been previously turned off by their logo but this model doesn't seem to have it, so that's a plus. Thanks. 

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Why not look at Sinn 556 

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Oldmanwatches

Why not look at Sinn 556 

That does check a lot of boxes! I'll take a look, thank you. 

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Here are some shots of the 36mm C63

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Monta Triumph or Serica 4512 WMB version. 

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I went from Vaer to Sinn 556.

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Sinnguy

I went from Vaer to Sinn 556.

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Ha! A well tread path. Are you happy with your decision? Any notable differences? 

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Millrr1964
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Monta Triumph or Serica 4512 WMB version. 

Will research, thanks!

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azwatchgeek
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Here are some shots of the 36mm C63

Black dial looks good! How's the bracelet? Substantial? 

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88MilesPerHour

Black dial looks good! How's the bracelet? Substantial? 

I have tiny 6” wrists and find the bracelet to be surprisingly comfortable, yet sturdy. I‘ve read reviews that complain the clasp is too big. It is long, but does have a nice curve so I don’t mind it and it allows several micro adjustments with no tool. My only real complaint with bracelet is the double-headed screws which make sizing a bit of a dexterity challenge. 
 

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azwatchgeek

I have tiny 6” wrists and find the bracelet to be surprisingly comfortable, yet sturdy. I‘ve read reviews that complain the clasp is too big. It is long, but does have a nice curve so I don’t mind it and it allows several micro adjustments with no tool. My only real complaint with bracelet is the double-headed screws which make sizing a bit of a dexterity challenge. 
 

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Good intel, thank you!

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The Tissot Gentleman PM80 is almost exactly what I'm talking about (if it wasn't 40mm, which will look huge on me.) It's understated, good mix of rugged and elegant, feels "higher end" but I wouldn't hesitate to leave it on my bedside table. Getting closer. 

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88MilesPerHour

Ha! A well tread path. Are you happy with your decision? Any notable differences? 

Very happy. The Sinn was the first time I spent over $1K on a watch and the difference was huge. The Vaer served me well but, I'm wearing the 556 now and I had to dig through a drawer to find the Vaer for this photo.