I’m in the market for a 36-38mm GADA watch. I currently have three options which have piqued my interest, all at very different price points.
My interpretation of GADA is true versatility (i.e. can dress down with a t-shirt and shorts, but also wouldn’t look out of place with a suit).
I’m not concerned about water resistance.
I’d welcome any suggestions that others may have (note: I’m not a fan of the Omega AT38 - just flagging, as I know this is an obvious contender). Thanks in advance for any recommendations!
Longines Spirit 37
Maen Brooklyn 36 (triple calendar)
Rolex DateJust 36 (fluted bezel/jubilee)
Longines Spirit 37
DJ is a great everyday and would be a stellar choice. Others to consider:
Fears Brunswick
Formex Essence 39 (fits smaller)
Tudor BB 36
Serica 4512
Montblanc Heritage
Monta Noble or Triumph
You can't go wrong with a DateJust, although I love the Longines. It seems you are set on having a date, but if you can get by without one I really love the Oyster Perpetual too.
Iwc spitfire is 1mm off this spec
SBGX261. 37mm. Looks great in all conditions. And a fairly bargain way to get on the Grand Seiko train. It’s a stunner!
I don't get the appeal of a black dial on a Datejust. Everyday means boring, and Longines is very good at that. There's nothing interesting enough to lose interest in later. This is meant in a good way.
36mm Islander Manhasset
Sinn 556i RS.
Speedmaster, Date Just, Oyster Perpetual, El Primero
I take my SGG731 if I need a watch that can be worn with practically everything and anytime. It's thin due to its quartz movement, it's dressy enough to be worn with a suit (which I don't for years) and sober looking enough to not attract attention.
The indices and logo are both applied, the day/date window is framed, there is lume for those who like it, and the polish of the case profile and on the edges of the bracelet's center links prove that polishing titanium isn't black magic after all. It's a high quality quartz watch in a small and affordable neat package.
Archemede Klassik 36 . SW.LS
Baltic HMS 002 BLACK
Citizen AQ1010-54E
Christopher Ward C65 Dune Automatic
Cartier Santos (medium). I know it states 35mm but the case shape makes it wear a bit bigger looking like 36-37ish.
Certina DS Action Diver 38. It resembles some vibes of a Rolex Submariner, having a small case and great glossy dial.
Hamilton Murph 38mm should definitely be on your radar if it isn't already. But the 37mm Longines is a great choice too.
I’ve been on the same hunt and the watches I’m considering are the Rolex Explorer, Halios Universa (Dale Blue), Lorier Falcon, Traska Sumiteer, and the Monta Atlas/Noble. Already own a Sinn 556i and Hamilton Khaki Field which can do GADA work. A lot of good options out there.
36mm Islander Manhasset
Have to agree with you on this, I just got the Manhasset and really impressed for Quality, Style and price. It is a GADA IHMO.