Which GADA watch do you think is the best?
I've been on the hunt for the perfect everyday watch (something suitable for both casual and semi-formal settings) under £1000 and initially had my eye on the Christopher Ward C63 Sealander Automatic 36mm. However, after a trip to their showroom last week, I realised the 36mm feels a bit too small for my wrist, and the 39mm version's red elements just didn't click with me.
Since then, I've explored other options and found myself torn between three fantastic watches. Sadly, none of them are readily available, so acquiring any of them will be a challenge – a challenge I'm willing to undertake because I genuinely love each of them. But, I'm facing the classic choice paralysis here!
My wrist is slightly larger, so I'm leaning towards watches that are comfortable in the 38-42mm range. Also, I'm not a fan of very loud design elements; I prefer something more understated. Given these preferences, I'd love to hear your thoughts on these options. If you've owned or tried any of these watches, how was your experience? 😊
Citizen NB1050-59E
Traska Commuter 38
Traska Summiteer 38
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Summiteer for me, I’m a fan of numbers in the dial
Ah, those are very different. I'm biased, because I've come out of an Explorer infatuation and I really do use a date complication. At the same time, I don't like when the hands are thinner than the indexes. If not equal, the hands should be thicker, since they're the most important!
Luckily, there are many understated versatile watches out there. Traska and Citizen are very good choices, you might also look at JDM Seiko. Further microbrand to consider: Clemence Munroe. Big brands: Certina DS series, Tissot PR-100 (if you can find one - the autos seem to be discontinued).
I think Commuter offers the best GADA, because it can dress up better than the Summiteer, but either Traska can easily be GADA.
I understand your dilemma. The Citizen and Summiteer are both on my list as well. I would exclude the Commuter based on my personal preference. Difficult choice between the other two though. I think I‘d go for the Summiteer because I love Arabic numerals on a dial.
I voted Summiteer because I’m expecting one in the mail. Traska does a great job so I wouldn’t blame you for the classic Commuter (OP style).
The Citizen should not be underestimated. It’s very well made and you get a lot of watch for the price.
Tell me what GADA means and I’ll let you know.
You have some great options there. Here are a few more:
Hamilton:
Frederique Constant:
Ball:
Longines (might be a little over $1k, but worth looking at):
You have some great options there. Here are a few more:
Hamilton:
Frederique Constant:
Ball:
Longines (might be a little over $1k, but worth looking at):
These are some really great options, thanks! I love both Fireman and Jazzmaster but with 40mm and about 48-50mm lug to lug I guess I think I’d need to try them on my wrist first.
The Citizen should not be underestimated. It’s very well made and you get a lot of watch for the price.
Ohh nice! Is that the gray dial version?
Ohh nice! Is that the gray dial version?
yes it is!
Both the Citizen NB1060-12L (basically the NB1050 with a more interesting dial material) and the Traska Summiteer (probably the 36mm) are on my shortlist. However, for a GADA I prioritize lume over a date complication, so I voted for the Summiteer.
Ah, those are very different. I'm biased, because I've come out of an Explorer infatuation and I really do use a date complication. At the same time, I don't like when the hands are thinner than the indexes. If not equal, the hands should be thicker, since they're the most important!
Luckily, there are many understated versatile watches out there. Traska and Citizen are very good choices, you might also look at JDM Seiko. Further microbrand to consider: Clemence Munroe. Big brands: Certina DS series, Tissot PR-100 (if you can find one - the autos seem to be discontinued).
I have never heard of Clemence before, but it looks absolutely amazing. Just wow
yes it is!
I guess + one more option for me then 🤣
I guess + one more option for me then 🤣
hahaha. that was not my intention. but it's a great alternative to the black dial.
Tell me what GADA means and I’ll let you know.
For me it’s a watch that fits into every part of my day - from casual office settings and picking up my kids from the nursery to shopping trips or grabbing a beer with friends. Ideally, it’s a piece that doesn’t require a second thought about whether it matches my outfit or the occasion. As I have a bit bulky GMT and a dress watch, I need something in between for daily wear
I happen to be wearing my 38 mm Traska Commuter today.
Honnestly, if I were to restart my watch journey today, with the accumulated knowledge of 12 years in the hobby, this one and my crappy YEMA RJOQ56 would be a good foundation.