Looking for a new daily wear/beater...but hesitant about SPBx lineline
Hi all,
TLDR: Looking for a Seiko SPBx alternative that doesn't compromise on accuracy like the SPB line does.
First, I wanna thank everyone on this site for being far more positive and receptive to questions and advice-giving than others on other sites tend to be.
Second (and with that in-mind), I'm wondering if people could share their thoughts on my current conundrum. I recently sold my daily wearer/beater diver (an Orient Mako II that was just too heavy), and now I'm really bummed I don't have that functionality in my collection. Many sing the praises of the Seiko SPBx line; and they're undeniably versatile and aesthetically out of the tool watch world--but their accuracy is almost laughable at -15/+25 seconds.
I've had my eye on a few lightly-used Tag Heuer Aqua Racers (the WAY211C) and the Breitling Colt Ocean line (there are a few chronometers), as I'm trying to find something that doesn't compromise accuracy or functionality, while scratching the gada functionality and appearance itches of the sub/bb/spb lines.
I'm looking for a hearty/strong watch with a bezel, central seconds, and decent WR, that's under $1,500, and I'd prefer if it was automatic (as I've got a black dialed Omega AT 36mm quartz on the way as an engagement present).
I welcome your thoughts/comments/considerations!
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At that price point, I feel like the world is your oyster! Here are a number of smaller brands you might consider:
Good luck!
I think the Marathon GSAR falls under your budget, but I know the TSAR(quartz) does.
CW makes a few watches that might fit your needs, but the base watches are SW200-1 powered, so they have a relatively wide acceptable range of accuracy. They do make chronometers that would fall under your budget though.
Are there any other brands or items that you not consider? How far off the beaten track would you like to go: would you consider bronze case, or quartz movement?
Maybe a Zodiac Super Sea Wolf (would be my first choice) or Doxa Sub 200. Also, they might be aesthetically astray from what you are looking for, but I think the Serica 5303 checks all those boxes.
Are there any other brands or items that you not consider? How far off the beaten track would you like to go: would you consider bronze case, or quartz movement?
I would prefer a SS case and an automatic movement. I’m open to being surprised by a watch “off the beaten path,” but would prefer something with a proven track record (like a Caravelle Devil Diver) rather than microbrands (bc, though I know there’s value or quality to be had, I like that things have stood the rest of time)
Maybe a Zodiac Super Sea Wolf (would be my first choice) or Doxa Sub 200. Also, they might be aesthetically astray from what you are looking for, but I think the Serica 5303 checks all those boxes.
I always forget about Zodiac. I think it’s because I rarely see them in the metal/at a store.
I would prefer a SS case and an automatic movement. I’m open to being surprised by a watch “off the beaten path,” but would prefer something with a proven track record (like a Caravelle Devil Diver) rather than microbrands (bc, though I know there’s value or quality to be had, I like that things have stood the rest of time)
Completely understandable. Perhaps the following may be of interest:
Perhaps the pro mare from Mühle Glashütte. It's about $2000, but should be obtainable at your budget from sites like chrono.co.uk.
Perhaps the pro mare from Mühle Glashütte. It's about $2000, but should be obtainable at your budget from sites like chrono.co.uk.
I thought about this one but I wanted to stay on budget. These are pretty nice, and if you wanted to stray off your set path then the Rescue Timer is a really good looking watch.
What about a Longines like the LLD or Hydroconquest, or something less mainstream like an Aquadive?
That said, I don't really get the accuracy thing for a watch in a collection. Aren't you going to have to set it when you want to wear it, anyway? I guess that's my way of saying that I think your should get an SPB and not worry about it.
Take a look at Formex - they have a lot of COSC certified movements and their finishing is terrific and styling is relatively unique.
Maybe tale a look at the Mido Ocean Star lines. They have a heritage and GMT option.
Maybe a Zodiac Super Sea Wolf (would be my first choice) or Doxa Sub 200. Also, they might be aesthetically astray from what you are looking for, but I think the Serica 5303 checks all those boxes.
Back here because I just learned that Squale has a COSC certified watch now (more info). And that was a good reminder that Squale in general are a good option. I see mention once above.
Back here because I just learned that Squale has a COSC certified watch now (more info). And that was a good reminder that Squale in general are a good option. I see mention once above.
Their 1521 that is COSC certified? It’s really nice but might be above the price-range. Squale are decent though… trust the shark.