Exactly. Does the JLC cost more to manufacture and thus is probably 4x more expensive for you to buy? Absolutely. Does that equate to happiness when it’s on your wrist? That is for you to decide.

I remember wanting to love the 38mm Bathyscaphe. I tried on the 36mm legend diver the same day and I like the LD more.

Whatcha get?

I’d definitely say something thin and dressy. Maybe gold if you have the budget. Lots of modern options 38-41mm, which would be good for you I think.

Also maybe something shaped? Definitely material (titanium, ceramic)? An independent small brand?

As a fellow skin diver owner, I agree. I’m guilty of buying a few watches with retention in mind, but it’s also because I like the watch. That being said, now that I’ve experience most of the large brands either through handling other peoples watches or my own luck, the small brands are more exciting to me these days. Plus I always enjoy rooting for the “little” guy.

A couple years ago I got to go to Europe for the first time, and planned a trip to Paris and Geneva (as a watch nerd, the reasons are obvious for the latter). Of course I wondered into any watch store that looked interesting, and a Bucherer store in Geneva had a Richemont section with a wide array of JLC and Cartier watches. I went in wanting to check out both a Tank and a Reverso, thinking I would like the Reverso more. The sales person wanted me to like the Reverso more, but for whatever reason I bonded with the large solar beat Tank! I had been curious about a Tank Américaine so I tracked one down in another store, and now that’s what I have!

I just say this so say go check stuff out if you can. Once you do, you may have a clear preference for one or the other, regardless of which watch is “better.”

I’ve got this one too!

Yeah I would stick with the Seamaster, try some different straps! If you’re really not feeling the blue, I’m sure you could find a way to swap for a more neutral dial color with another collector.

Omega is a better finished watch. I have a Black Bay Pro, love it. And it Aqua Terra. Also love it. The Aqua Terra is definitely a step above in terms of fit and finish. If you just happen to like the design and feel of the BB58 more, that is simply a matter of preference.