A Change of Plans and a Grateful Cruncher

I canceled our family's weekend trip to the beach. This decision was a bummer, in part because I had chosen to wear one of my favorite divers. Although there were no plans to swim in the ocean – the water temperature was about 47°F – I miss wearing this diver as it gets the most wrist time during late spring and summer.

My wife and I switched gears and settled on a long lunch at an upscale restaurant. She reminded me that this month marks our 35th year as a couple. For the occasion, I decided to wear a vintage watch, something that slips easily under the cuff and holds sentimental value. 

As I was changing watches, I reflected on how I had acquired them from two Crunchers. I feel grateful and thought I’d share a little bit with the group.

If it itches… scratch or buy it.

Shortly after joining the Crunch in May 2023, I had the pleasure of meeting a fellow named @Ichibunz. For those who aren’t familiar with Jerome, he’s quick-witted, a modder and an all-around great guy. Jerome also happens to have a stunning collection of watches. As a “Seiko fanboy,” he shares my enthusiasm (affliction?) for Seiko divers.

Last July, I complimented Jerome on his Captain Willard, and he offered to sell it to me. His reason was simple: the Willard wasn’t getting enough wrist time, and he wanted it to find a new home where it would be appreciated. Without hesitation, I accepted his generous offer. Since then, this watch has become a frequent companion—whether I’m at the beach, running errands, or spending time with friends and family.

I want a vintage watch. Why? Because.

At some point in this journey, many of us want the ownership experience of a vintage watch. A respected Cruncher once remarked, “I do mostly vintage, which is always a risk, but I can control the risk.” That statement resonates deeply. Vintage watches indeed come with risks. With little knowledge about the vintage market, extinct brands, pin-pallet movements, etc., I focused on finding a trusted source for my first affordable vintage purchase. Enter @GasWorks, “a self-confessed Seikophile who spends far too much time looking at bits of watches under a microscope” and refers to his restored pieces as “little donkeys”. I was intrigued. Glowing reviews on WC and eBay sealed the deal.  I reached out to Gareth and acquired a 1970 Seiko 6106-8480 Sealion M550. This watch checked all the right boxes for me:

1. Birth Year Connection: The Sealion was born in the same year as me!

2. Favorite Brand: Seiko

3. Trusted Source: GasWorks, with his reputation and meticulous work, ensured a worry-free purchase.

As I prepared for our lunch date, I glanced at the watch box by my PC. There it sat—the Sealion, alongside a few other favorites. And my wife? She chose a vintage Gruen.

There you have it.  Hope you enjoyed the post.