The Unsung Heroes - The Humble Daily Work Watch
I started reflecting on my collection yesterday - never a good idea, that way lies madness - and while the 'highlight' watches stand out, I thought more about those basic daily watches, the ones you put on to go to work without thinking too much about them, the ones you wear when it ISN'T a special watch day.
So, a post of three halves....
Firstly, what do you look for in a daily watch that you just wear to work or around the house? My requirements are probably.... 39mm to 42mm, diver or sports watch, at least 100m water resistance, sapphire, interesting but not too flashy dial, bracelet, relatively thin (not super thin, but unobtrusive, 10mm - 12mm range) and comfortable to wear, good lume and legible. And affordable, around $300, and not a direct 'homage' (a few design cues inspired by big name watches is fine, but not a copy in all but name).... That's more demanding than I expected. On top of that, while microbrands probably do well on this requirements list, actually finding the watch available to buy is a barrier there. No limited editions, etc.
Secondly, recommend me some candidates that fit my requirements. Lets get the obvious out of the way first - the Orient.... anything. I like the Kamasu so thats on the list for me.
Thirdly, lets honour these unsung weekday heroes and add your nomination for your own humble daily as a reply here, irrespective of if it qualifies for my long list of requirements.
Collecting for a couple of years, initially focused on affordable watches. Now enthusiastic about microbrands...
Mine probably fails your last requirement, but I love my San Martin SN0107. I bought it because I liked it, but it quickly became my go to watch. It’s my default. Works with almost anything. Very comfortable. Perfect size even on my 7.4” wrist.
This is what I have been using only for work, it's been taking a beating and so far it's been a champ, as I work with solvents, resins and rubbers it's been ideal as its cheap enough and it doesn't melt like a casio does.
I think I have three watches that almost fit this, but none that totally do.
#1. A simple diver, black dial, but a microbrand limited run and the lume isnt great.
#2
Sports, 100m wr Orient movement and I like this one way more than I should. But also a microbrand.
#3
Dial is a bit flashy but it scores well in everything else.... except its a v2 and now Phoibos have a v3 with different dials that I dont like as much.
Clearly.... Time to buy a new watch! I dont make the rules....
If you’re looking for a recommendation, what’s your budget?
As for me? My perfect daily is the Explore 39mm, understated, robust, and cool AF.
Around US$250-US$300 I think. Low enough that I dont think twice about wearing it daily.
All my watches are daily work wearers, but I work in a shop so they have it easy.
I love my Timex Expedition North Mechanical and it ticks every box on your list except maybe for lume, it doesn't last too long.