LIP T18 Churchill or Rotary Cambridge

So, I have decided to treat myself to a new watch on my birthday, and I want to try something different than usual. I have been fascinated by rectangular watches for quite some time, but never left my comfort zone to get one until now. Also, I have all Japanese and Swiss watches right now. Want to try something else With a max budget of £200, I have shortlisted the LIP T18 Churchill (French) and Rotary Cambridge (British) and listed down the pros and cons - LIP T18 Churchill Pros - 1. Original Design (I really like the dial on this one) 2. A brand with great history (which I wasn't aware of until now) 3. Small Seconds 4. Swiss Movement (Ronda Slimtech) 5. Better overall aesthetic - mix of polished and brushed dial, curved glass Cons - 1. Mineral Crystal (Biggest Bummer for me !) 2. Relatively unknown brand (Couldn't find my reviews) 3. 30m WR (I guess that's ok for a dress watch) Rotary Cambridge Pros - 1. Sapphire Crystal 2. Relatively better WR at 50m 3. Also a brand with great history (However, the watches are made in PRC I think) 4. Comparatively cheaper - Lowest I could find was £128 Cons - 1. Not so original design (Quite similar to JLC Reverso) 2. Fully polished bezel I believe with these set of pros and cons, they are almost equally matched, making my decision even tougher. And that's why i'm reaching out to fellow crunchers for their recommendations since for both of them, there are very few reviews, especially the LIP. If any one has personal experience with any of these watches, it would be nice to learn.
68 votes ·
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I'm a big fan of Rotary, very much underrated brand who offer great value for money. LIP are a company with a troubled history but make decent, if rarely seen, pieces.

In this instance I'd go with the LIP, classic art deco design, and the crown is exactly right for period. Also, I'm not convinced the blue numerals on the Rotary.

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Both watches are nice but the design is over 100 years old. The ones made back then looked like clones of these.

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Rotary for me, reminds me of my mum!

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LIP

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I think the LIP looks better and that’s how I voted. Having said that, I own the Rotary and I am quite happy with it.

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caktaylor

I think the LIP looks better and that’s how I voted. Having said that, I own the Rotary and I am quite happy with it.

Thanks. Overall I also feel the LIP looks better. However, its good to know the Rotary has been working well for you.

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Rotary!!

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Look the lip how cool it is

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