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-   -   I decided its time for me to get a watch (http://goldismoney.info/forums/showthread.php?t=408513)

Big Country 09-18-2009 01:11 AM

I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
So I've decided its time for me to get a watch. I don't necessarily need a jewelry watch, but more of a functional/practical watch. A Man's watch. Obviously a jewelry store is out of the question, I don't need or want a gold watch.

I need a waterproof watch (within reason....waterproof to snorkeling/holding breath depths)
I need a watch that has some extra useful features (doesn't need all of these):
stopwatch
altimeter
displays the date
moon phases
ect...ect...ect...

Really I need a nice watch, I need a watch that is DURABLE and I need I watch I never have to take off (unless I have to put on a suit or something). I would like to have something in addition to just the time telling ability that would be useful in a SHTF scenario where I may not have the space to devote to a specialized device in my pack. I don't know what that function is yet, if anything. I need help! What should I be looking for? I would like to keep this under $300, but may consider something more if it really strikes my fancy and I just "have to have that one".

Any idea? Should I just get a cheap "sport" watch? I really would like this to be something a little more...maybe a tool I'll need to survive. What would you like to have on a watch that may help you survive?

Apocalypto 09-18-2009 01:36 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Casio G-Shock

http://www.gshock.com/products/

Very cool watches, good prices. They even have "Atomic Timekeeping".

Grad 09-18-2009 01:48 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
My watch spooked me today at 7:30 am. Alarm sudenly went of. For 10 minutes I was wondering whether I should hide in the basement.

Then it went back to normal

I reckon it was a solar flare

http://polimaster.com/files/product/...200585062439_3

I have it set up to beep at 3 times ambient

http://polimaster.us/products/electr...sonal/pm1208m/

http://polimaster.us/files/product/image2/1198829512678

( do your own diligence )

Cons:

1. It runs on two batteris. The dosimeter's battery lasts only for a year or even a little less.

2. The watch is somewhat bulky

3. I suggest changing the battery yourself. (I had to give my watch for the repair after shop guys broke of a tiny peace when changing the battery )

Otherwise it is a fun watch

Got valid and useful alerts on several occasions

computes accumulated dose (could be useful for frequent fliers)

Glass 09-18-2009 02:19 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
what about something like an Aviator or of course a TAG? There is another excellent brand which escapes me just ATM. I think it was a brand focused on sailing and yatchies.... will have to ponder it unless anyone else has clue.

maybe it was Breitling.... not convinced.... yes I think that was it now I am seeing the web site... thank you for your patience.

skyvike 09-18-2009 02:58 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
First, you need to decide how to power your watch.

Quartz electric or Mechanical/automatic

After having a quartz watch crap a battery when I really needed to have a watch that worked, I've changed to automatics, almost exclusively.

Unfortunately, there are no reliable $300 automatic watches.

If your budget is fixed at $300, I would look at the Luminox Brand. They make both stainless and carbon fiber cases, are all lighted with tritium (i.e. you can read them at night without charging them with your flashlight first), and are really tough. I think they're even making chronographs (i.e. "stopwatch) in nice stainless steel cases. They virtually all have dates.

For moon phases, altimeters, and the like, I think Casio has some digital products but are you buying a tool or a toy? You'll never achieve any kind of altitude accuracy with a watch unless you're really high (like higher than you can breath without oxygen) and if you're planning operations based on phase of moon, you won't be doing it under your pancho liner....

Any electric watch and many inexpensive mechanical watches will fall victim to an EMP, if you're worried about that sort of thing.

When I got my first pilot license, I got all excited and went out and bought a "Pilot Watch" which was a Seiko Aviator. It had a circulur slide rule navigation computer for time-speed-distance calculations, a stop watch, date, etc.. It seemed so cool and was going to save space in my flight case 'cuz I'd no longer need my "Jeppesen Computer."

And it all worked really great...

until I started the engine.... The vibration was just right that even my young (at the time) eyes couldn't read anything except the time and the date. Those numbers are small! The rest of the stuff just turned out to be eyewash!

The other thing I learned is that in the dark, luminous watch hands don't show up as well against a white face as they do against a dark face. I have never had a watch with a white face since then. For readability of a watch in low or changing light, think CONTRAST.

Since then I have been searching for, and failing to find, the ideal flying watch. I am satisfied that as of now, it has not yet been built....

If you're buying a tool, give it some thought and get the right tool for the job.

If you're one of those folks who just can't figure out which end of the screwdriver to hit the nail with, well...

:signs14::signs14::signs14:


Quote:

Originally Posted by Big Country (Post 1927278)
So I've decided its time for me to get a watch. I don't necessarily need a jewelry watch, but more of a functional/practical watch. A Man's watch. Obviously a jewelry store is out of the question, I don't need or want a gold watch.

I need a waterproof watch (within reason....waterproof to snorkeling/holding breath depths)
I need a watch that has some extra useful features (doesn't need all of these):
stopwatch
altimeter
displays the date
moon phases
ect...ect...ect...

Really I need a nice watch, I need a watch that is DURABLE and I need I watch I never have to take off (unless I have to put on a suit or something). I would like to have something in addition to just the time telling ability that would be useful in a SHTF scenario where I may not have the space to devote to a specialized device in my pack. I don't know what that function is yet, if anything. I need help! What should I be looking for? I would like to keep this under $300, but may consider something more if it really strikes my fancy and I just "have to have that one".

Any idea? Should I just get a cheap "sport" watch? I really would like this to be something a little more...maybe a tool I'll need to survive. What would you like to have on a watch that may help you survive?


argentos 09-18-2009 06:16 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Big Country (Post 1927278)

I would like to have something in addition to just the time telling ability that would be useful in a SHTF scenario where I may not have the space to devote to a specialized device in my pack.

If TSHTF there are unlikely to be specialised watch batteries, so it has to be mechanical, automatic and expensive enough to work for yonks without servicing.

http://divers-watch.net/wp-content/u...submariner.jpg
:shine::shine::shine::shine::shine:

Martian_Time_slip 09-18-2009 06:17 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
I bought a gshock back in 2001. I still have it, and I've gone all over the world with it, banged it up, snorkeled with it, whatever. Still works. The only thing is, after 8 years, the plastic starts to crack and pieces of it start breaking off. It's more than useable.

I'd love to have a brietling. Those things are gorgeous.

crazychicken 09-18-2009 06:26 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
I use a Timex Expedition.

Time, second hand, date, backlight, nylon strap, water resistant to deeper than I've ever needed. I use it when I dive. Although never been deeper than 275'.

Under $30

I have a Rolex Submariner in the drawer. My Grandfather gave it to me when I graduated UK.

Wore it once.

In 49 years I have gone through a total of THREE Timex watches.

ROI--priceless

CC

Osprey550 09-18-2009 08:10 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Take a look at the watches available on the overstock website. They have many to choose from at closout prices. I bought my last one from them and have been happy with it so far.

brosil 09-18-2009 08:20 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
www.stauer.com/?ad=STRSEMWBIWMSNSTB

I'm happy with my Stauer. It took some wearing in to get reliability. It would hang the second hand up and stop. After a few hours, it worked normally and has since. I confess that I don't wear a watch much as it's a hazard in my work. I'm thinking of buying another one just because I like them. They are'nt expensive as you'll see.

foolsgold 09-18-2009 08:26 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Apocalypto (Post 1927299)
Casio G-Shock

http://www.gshock.com/products/

Very cool watches, good prices. They even have "Atomic Timekeeping".

I have a G Shock on my wrist, the battery has lasted about 7 years thus far.

It is virtually indestructible.

Aussie 09-18-2009 08:35 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by argentos (Post 1927402)
If TSHTF there are unlikely to be specialised watch batteries, so it has to be mechanical, automatic and expensive enough to work for yonks without servicing.


I wear a Rolex GMT II everyday. It's a bulletproof tank. But I may not wear it everyday if TSHTF. Could make for a target. A have a Seiko Divemaster Kinetic as well. Both are great, reliable time pieces.

Weatherman 09-18-2009 08:45 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
1 Attachment(s)
Quote:

Originally Posted by Big Country (Post 1927278)
I would like to keep this under $300, but may consider something more if it really strikes my fancy and I just "have to have that one".

Any idea? Should I just get a cheap "sport" watch? I really would like this to be something a little more...maybe a tool I'll need to survive. What would you like to have on a watch that may help you survive?

My vote is a watch that is good for all weather, man. :haha:
Alright, I'll admit that though I have lots of class, its all third. :haha: :haha: :haha:

I have worn the Casio CA-53W for decades. The battery lasts more than 5 years, but I haven't replaced a battery yet because I either lose the watch first, or somehow destroy it through carelessness. I literally wear it all the time. The watch is water resistant, so it is happy in the shower or washing the car, but it did not like it when I forgot to take it off while snorkeling one day.

For SHTF planning with $300, I say splurge for the $20 the CA-53W costs, and also buy a dozen SAE to carry in your pocket. Then the calculator on the watch will be the only tool you will need for SHTF - so you can calculate how many loaves of bread or chickens you should get for each SAE! :haha: :haha: :haha: :haha:

Attachment 79196

<SLV> 09-18-2009 08:54 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Martian_Time_slip (Post 1927404)
I bought a gshock back in 2001. I still have it, and I've gone all over the world with it, banged it up, snorkeled with it, whatever. Still works. The only thing is, after 8 years, the plastic starts to crack and pieces of it start breaking off. It's more than useable.

I'd love to have a brietling. Those things are gorgeous.

My FIL is hard on watches so I got him a G-shock a couple years ago for $75 new on E-bay. It is one of the solar-powered models with automatic date-time (set by RF). It is an idiot-proof watch that requires absolutely no maintenance. His only complaint is that the face sits higher from his wrist so he occasionaly snags it (he is an auto mechanic).

St. Germain 09-18-2009 09:33 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
1 Attachment(s)
I recommend the Rolex Sea Dweller.

It has taken a ton of abuse, looks great and has actually increased in value over the years. The watch is built like a tank, will last a lifetime and is worth the initial buy in - IMHO.

Gave my dad a Submariner - he wanted a smaller case - and he is also thoroughly pleased.

ST

ruprick 09-18-2009 09:58 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by skyvike (Post 1927338)

.......When I got my first pilot license, I got all excited and went out and bought a "Pilot Watch" which was a Seiko Aviator. It had a circulur slide rule navigation computer for time-speed-distance calculations, a stop watch, date, etc.. It seemed so cool and was going to save space in my flight case 'cuz I'd no longer need my "Jeppesen Computer."

And it all worked really great...

until I started the engine.... The vibration was just right that even my young (at the time) eyes couldn't read anything except the time and the date. Those numbers are small! The rest of the stuff just turned out to be eyewash!.........

I'm also a pilot......and a big fan of watches with the E6B "Circular Slide Rule".....you don't have to be a pilot to find these very useful.....it is simply a slide rule.....fantastic for multiplication and division.....I use it all the time (yes, pun intended...).

I've has several of these E6B watches....from inexpensive to quite expensive.

The very best and most expensive is the Brietling...I prefer the Old Navitimer Model - excellent E6B number size = easy to read......but they are $3000 these days.....I do not have one but my father and brother do. Too expensive for me.....

I do have a Tag Heuer Pilot E6B watch in quartz movement....the also made them in mechanical movement.....no longer make the mechanical ....not sure on the quartz.....plan on north of $1000. Actually as good or better E6B size/visual. This is the very best alternative to the Brietling.

Chase Durer $400 - $1000....nice watches for style.....every one of their E6B is way too small...nearly useless in planes/cars moving. I owned 1 and sold it.

Seiko Pilot quartz movement E6B is fair....not quite big enough for planes and cars...but not bad....lets call it fair......cost about $500 these days.....I had one and sold it.

Citizens Navihawk (might call them Skyhawk these days)......this is my favorite watch .....packed with functions...it is a combination quartz movement and digital watch.....now in the 3rd generation....I've had all three.....really love these watches for $200 - $300 if you shop the net or travel to the Caribean you might find under $200. E6B about the size of Seiko...so...could be larger but the watch has a lot of functions packed into its size. The even offer it in titanium for low weight and also an ecodrive / kinetic drive...no battery ever needed. Some models will be in the $400 - $500 zone.

There are a couple of other brands that feature the E6B.....I've never had on in hand...only magazines and internet....Torgoen....looks nice....many models $300 - $500.

Really, that is about it for the E6B watches.

Like I said, I use the E6B calculator nearly every day. So, for me, that is the watch I must have.

ruprick 09-18-2009 10:09 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
These guys seem to have a wide selection of most of the popular E6B watches:

http://www.hmewatch.com/-c-21.html

ruprick 09-18-2009 10:13 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
1 Attachment(s)
This is an example of Tag Heuer Pilot...very large E6B numbers.....they made it in silver face and black face....

ruprick 09-18-2009 10:16 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
1 Attachment(s)
In a black face.....the model I have.

ruprick 09-18-2009 10:22 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
2 Attachment(s)
Brietling Old Navitimer.....$3000 is crazy expensive.....but they are probably the very best E6B watch ever made.

hypervel 09-18-2009 11:09 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Solar atomic Casio.

nub 09-18-2009 11:21 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
I'm a watch collector, Rolex, Omega, Breitling, Sinn, Ocean7, Damasco, Dox, Revue Thommen, Wenger GST sea master, Seiko, .......many more.

My favorite is the Seiko Tuna can.....do a search. I switch off on ocassion but always go back to it, fit and feel& looks are right for me and reads well in low to no light, I can't say enough good things about this watch. I'm surprised at the punishment it has taken and how well it still looks after 4 years ! and still on same battery.

If your looking for a feature packed tuff watch you might want to check out this watch, it is also made in a 200meter virsion. No I don't own this one , can't say I'm crazy bout the look , but read up on it , it's got some great features like the back light coming on auto when you turn your wrist to read in low light conditions.

ruprick 09-18-2009 04:12 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
1 Attachment(s)
My current daily watch = Citizen Navihawk Stainless.

Gknowmx 09-18-2009 04:16 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Get a Polar

http://www.polarusa.com/us-en/

Osprey550 09-18-2009 04:39 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
The tuna can looks similar to the seiko diver I bought from overstock. I went with an automatic rather than quartz. It's been a great watch so far. I have a casio g shock that is tough as nails too, it has the solar charging feature to prolong battery life.

ruprick 09-18-2009 04:59 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Getting back on track....I posted non-applicable stuff.....now I'm interested in a general basic watch also.

1) Mechanical Movement (Automatic even better).....or some type of Ecodrive...last a hell of a long time without battery.
2) Reasonable waterproof - basic swimming, hunting, etc...
3) Only needs time.....date/day would be a bonus...but not needed. Likewise - no chronograph.
4) Optimum night/low light visability - whatever give maximum visability.
5) Prefer dark face + bright hands.
6) Prefer metal case over a plastic case.....probably non-metal bracelet.....
7) After function....but want it to look the part also.....

Are there any true military, tough as nails watches out there?

freud198 09-18-2009 05:25 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
1 Attachment(s)
this is what I wear. Cannot be beat.....

Breitling Emergency w/ 121.5 mhz locator beacon

freud198 09-18-2009 05:30 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by ruprick (Post 1928324)
Getting back on track....I posted non-applicable stuff.....now I'm interested in a general basic watch also.

1) Must be Mechanical Movement
2) Reasonable waterproof - basic swimming, hunting, etc...
3) Only needs time.....date/day would be a bonus...but not needed. Likewise - no chronograph.
4) Optimum night/low light visability - whatever give maximum visability.
5) Prefer dark face + bright hands.
6) Prefer metal case over a plastic case.....probably non-metal bracelet.....
7) After function....but want it to look the part also.....

Are there any true military, tough as nails watches out there?


Sounds like what you want is a Luminox.....

check out http://www.luminox.com/ look at model # 3001 http://luminox.800rpm.com/index.php?...%20Series/3001

skyvike 09-18-2009 06:33 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by ruprick (Post 1928324)
Getting back on track....I posted non-applicable stuff.....now I'm interested in a general basic watch also.

1) Mechanical Movement (Automatic even better).....or some type of Ecodrive...last a hell of a long time without battery.
2) Reasonable waterproof - basic swimming, hunting, etc...
3) Only needs time.....date/day would be a bonus...but not needed. Likewise - no chronograph.
4) Optimum night/low light visability - whatever give maximum visability.
5) Prefer dark face + bright hands.
6) Prefer metal case over a plastic case.....probably non-metal bracelet.....
7) After function....but want it to look the part also.....

Are there any true military, tough as nails watches out there?

We need to go flying together sometime, by the way....

Glycine Airman is an excellent watch with GMT function. I had an "Airman 46" and regret selling it a few years ago. Readility/brightness is average

I've had two Fortis GMTs - nice looking - simple but elegant. But they have a problem - the weight on the autowinder comes loose. I thought I had an unusual problem with mine 'til I talked to a former watch magazine editor who had the same problem. His fortis is in the same condition mine is: lonely in the dresser drawer. Readility/brightness is average but I improved it by having a jeweler remark the face with Superluminova.

I was recently given an Omega Seamaster GMT, which I like a lot both for looks and functionality. The way Omega has put together the time changing function makes much more sense than Breitling, Rolex, et al. Although not tritium, the brightness and readability of the Superluminova is excellent. A friend has the same watch that's not as bright so I don't know how consistent the brightness is.

The Dragonlady gave me a Brietling Chrongraph about 12 years ago, which was my first automatic. It's a nice looking piece of jewelry and reliable, but readability could be better. The Brightness is Average as well.

I've had several luminoxes which are bullet proof and bright, if not EMP proof.

The most recent one I've bought is a Ball. The Ball Watch company is actually the folks who brought us the term "on the ball" which came from the railroads. Back before communication was not so simple, the railroads lived and died by the accuracy of the engieers watches, hence the term "on the ball." The readability is outstanding.

Ball was one of the first to put the tritium illumination vials into a high quality automatic watch. I think the one I got was an Aviator GMT.

(I tend to get watches that display GMT/UTC as all flight planning and aviation weather is reported in GMT). The reason I'm so hung up on readbility is because in two crew flying, your lighting situation changes so much that you almost never get your night vistion really adjusted. I think that means you need a brighter watch than say, an Army Ranger who needs more light discipline.

One place to get really good quality automatic watches is from a place called WestCoastTime (http://www.westcoastime.com), which is run by a gent named Howard Marx. Howard is a real stand-up guy (honest to a fault - I've bought from him for years). He concentrates on a little-known brand of Swiss Watches, Ollech & Wajs. GI's used to by O&W by mail order or in the PX during the Vietnam conlflict. O&W is also a British MOD contractor so he sometimes has MOD overruns and the like.

Also, Howard has a huge stock of excellent tactical type nylon bands and I have often bought his "extra sturdy" stainless pins to prevent loss of the watch. I must have six of the bands he sells, in various colors.

Howard is in California and he has a "unique" writing style, sort of like The Duck without all the smilies, but he knows watches, has a great selection, and is straight and honest as the day is long. He has an online store at the web site and also lists on eBay. Prices are good too. Often I'll see good O&W Autos for under $400, but don't quote me on that.

And no, I don't get a commission. Haven't talked to him for at least a year.

:coolbeer:

latitude22 09-18-2009 06:40 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
i've seen people with those I've always wondered about them, this topic has been very informative... thanks i've made it this far without one though I think I can manage.


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Gold & Silver Forum - I decided its time for me to get a watch
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-   -   I decided its time for me to get a watch (http://goldismoney.info/forums/showthread.php?t=408513)

MrChrister4 09-18-2009 06:49 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
1 Attachment(s)
Quote:

Originally Posted by skyvike (Post 1927338)

Unfortunately, there are no reliable $300 automatic watches.

:signs14::signs14::signs14:

FYI - You can get some very nice and reliable automatic watches for less than $100... If you search a little $300 can get you a good mechanical watch with a swiss ETA movement.

The japs make nice Miyota movements... Seiko 5's and others can be had for well under $100 (try ebay) and are as reliable as any swiss made watch.

Poljot is a good russian brand if you like handwind chronographs and can be had for under $300. The movement is made from swiss machinery 'liberated' by the Russians in WW2.

For more info on less expensive mechanical watches, try the poor mans watch forum http://pmwf.com These are watch guys...

I don't want to offend any of the Rolex fans but they're way overpriced for what they are and you have to watch for very good fakes if not bought from a dealer. IMHO you can get way more watch for as much or less money in other swiss brands. :ok:

I'm a mechanical / automatic watch guy all the way and had this aviator style custom made for less than $400 with an ETA swiss movement. This is the same movement used in all but a few swiss watch companies.
Got it from Kent at everest watch works
http://www.everestwatchworks.com/

skyvike 09-18-2009 07:17 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by MrChrister4 (Post 1928512)
FYI - You can get some very nice and reliable automatic watches for less than $100... If you search a little $300 can get you a good mechanical watch with a swiss ETA movement.

The japs make nice Miyota movements... Seiko 5's and others can be had for well under $100 (try ebay) and are as reliable as any swiss made watch.

Poljot is a good russian brand if you like handwind chronographs and can be had for under $300. The movement is made from swiss machinery 'liberated' by the Russians in WW2.

For more info on less expensive mechanical watches, try the poor mans watch forum http://pmwf.com These are watch guys...

I don't want to offend any of the Rolex fans but they're way overpriced for what they are and you have to watch for very good fakes if not bought from a dealer. IMHO you can get way more watch for as much or less money in other swiss brands. :ok:

I'm a mechanical / automatic watch guy all the way and had this aviator style custom made for less than $600 with an ETA swiss movement. This is the same movement used in all but a few swiss watch companies.
Got it from Kent at everest watch works
http://www.everestwatchworks.com/

You're right, of course. Actually you reminded my that my first Automatic was a Seiko Diver which I gave to a friend in Bangkok in 1992. The Seiko watches are excellent.

I agree on the Rolex as well. I didn't even mention the President my father-in-law gave me because I don't consider it to be in the same league. I just don't think Rolex has anywhere near the workmanship of the competing brands.

I know about the Poljots but never actually had my hands on one of them. My experience with Russian machinery tells me that watches are better left to the Swiss. I even bought a couple of German inexpensive automatics, which I expected to be good but were JUNK.

One has to be a bit careful, even when getting an ETA movement. The difference in the quality of the assembly can be significant. Even the Fortis, which has a very good name, can't seem to get the pieces to even stay together, let alone tell reasonably accurate time.

:coolbeer:

scyth 09-18-2009 07:17 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Good Gawd A'Mighty -

Never saw so much wrist bling in my life.

Anyone know how to tell time using a medium tall stick,

Some pegs,

And a compass?

(The original solar powered watch)


scyth

skyvike 09-18-2009 07:47 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Point well taken.

:36_1_32v:

Glass 09-18-2009 08:05 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by scyth (Post 1928548)
Good Gawd A'Mighty -

Never saw so much wrist bling in my life.

Anyone know how to tell time using a medium tall stick,

Some pegs,

And a compass?

(The original solar powered watch)


scyth

I;ve got pegs, have you got a link? please.

scyth 09-18-2009 08:50 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
OK -

This is a Wiki Quickie, but it describes the principle.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sundial

So, you are out in the woods.

Find a place open to the sun,

Then peg in a pole pointing to the North.

Take a string, tie a loop in it, hook the

Loop around the pole,

Put a scribe at the other end, and

Draw a circle in the dirt.

It is convenient to clear the ground

Right down to smooth dirt for this apparatus.

Divvy the scribed circle into 24 sections, or hours.

Basic geometry here........

And peg the divisions.

There you go.

scyth

EE_ 09-18-2009 10:20 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Is this show and tell?
Here's a watch I picked up in Puerto Ban�s, Spain in the late 90's.
It's a Philippe Charriol "Christopher Columbus anniversary".
Automatic, 18kt & stainless. Very scarce to come by.
I mostly wear it as a dress watch.

http://i721.photobucket.com/albums/w...E/IMG_0990.jpg
http://i721.photobucket.com/albums/w...E/IMG_0992.jpg

Work and Play

http://i721.photobucket.com/albums/w...IMG_0995-1.jpg

ruprick 09-19-2009 12:19 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
I will support what others have said about Seiko mechanical automatics....I have 3 and all were purchased under $100.....probably the very best value in watches. There are hard to find retail in the USA....but all over the net and in foreign locations. Never understood what you don't see more retail here in USA.

I've had my eye on a few Seiko 5 automatics....might fit my needs ...other than would love tritium vial illumination.

skyvike 09-19-2009 12:40 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Ruprick,

One time in my travels about the net, I came across a watchmaker who would install tritium vials in watches that didn't come with them.

Can't remember the name now but if you find him, you might get one of your Seikos modified with tritium get a periodic service/lube at the same time.

If I come across the site again, I'll post.

;-)

Big Country 09-19-2009 12:55 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Oh my...I didn't realize this forum has so much pent up watch energy!

I really am wanting to get a decent watch...those rolexs aren't even on the table unless you can get me one for $300. I'm sorry, I just don't have the money for a $5000 watch (and I know that's on the low side). I don't think I'll ever have the money for a watch like that...and if I DID have that kind of money I think I would spend it some other way anyways!

Looks like I still have lots of information to parse though and do some research. I like the idea of the mechanical movement and the automatic/eco drive of some sort, but it will have to be on the low end there I'm sure with my budget. I like the looks of the g-shock line though I'll have to have a stock of batteries incase they get hard to find later. I also liked the look of that luminox 3001. Tough choices ahead!

Guess I have some more reading to do and some more deciding what it is I really need.

Apocalypto 09-19-2009 01:34 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by St. Germain (Post 1927560)
I recommend the Rolex Sea Dweller.

It has taken a ton of abuse, looks great and has actually increased in value over the years. The watch is built like a tank, will last a lifetime and is worth the initial buy in - IMHO.

Gave my dad a Submariner - he wanted a smaller case - and he is also thoroughly pleased.

ST

$6,000 for a watch? Rip-off. If you're rich enough to spend that kind of money on a watch, you can afford to be late for a meeting.

Jimfrancisco 09-19-2009 12:21 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Rolex here - and they last more than a lifetime. Given to my father on his 18th birthday, he died 10 years ago and I'm wearing it now.

Jimfrancisco 09-19-2009 12:44 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by scyth (Post 1928685)
OK -

This is a Wiki Quickie, but it describes the principle.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sundial

So, you are out in the woods.

Find a place open to the sun,

Then peg in a pole pointing to the North.

Take a string, tie a loop in it, hook the

Loop around the pole,

Put a scribe at the other end, and

Draw a circle in the dirt.

It is convenient to clear the ground

Right down to smooth dirt for this apparatus.

Divvy the scribed circle into 24 sections, or hours.

Basic geometry here........

And peg the divisions.

There you go.

scyth

So fast and so easy, compared to..... looking at your wrist?

scyth 09-19-2009 07:55 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Mr. James -

My preps always start with the idea/fact

That I am out in the middle of nowhere,

Whether it be city or country,

Stark naked, with nothing.

No watches, no firearms, no food, no clothes......

You get the idea.

So, in the end, knowledge

Beats technology any day, in my opine.

I'll go one further than that..........

Technology is a crutch to help you limp.

And as such is a double edged sword.

Knowledge, including situational awareness,

With or without technology

Significantly jacks up the ability to survive.

Thus my little homily on telling time

Without a watch.


scyth

Ash_Williams 09-21-2009 09:21 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

I bought a gshock back in 2001. I still have it, and I've gone all over the world with it, banged it up, snorkeled with it, whatever. Still works. The only thing is, after 8 years, the plastic starts to crack and pieces of it start breaking off. It's more than useable.

I always ended up with the plastic bands and cladding breaking. I got a metal one most recently. They've become available in the last few years. They look classier too.

TheNocturnalEgyptian 09-21-2009 04:39 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
I prefer automatics - they keep perfect time as long as you never set them down for a few days. They are powered by the kinetic energy of your movements.

Big Country 09-21-2009 08:14 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
I looked into the O&W watches and I have to say I really like them, and the price is better then rolex by far ;-)

I cannot, and doubtful ever will, be able to afford a rolex and if I do have that kind of money I doubt it would go towards a rolex.

I'm also going to try and find a g-shock dealer and look at them before I pull the trigger on one of the O&W watches.

I like the idea of the mechanical and automatic watches more then something that needs a battery which is why I'm leaning towards the O&W brand.

Ash_Williams 09-22-2009 02:26 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

I'm also going to try and find a g-shock dealer and look at them before I pull the trigger on one of the O&W watches.
I got mine online. The stores around here didn't have the metal ones. The plastic ones were available even at Walmart though. My batteries in the plastic ones outlived the watchbands (although being on my wrist they're exposed to all kinds of crap that corrodes them.)

Quote:

I like the idea of the mechanical and automatic watches more then something that needs a battery which is why I'm leaning towards the O&W brand.
Just get an extra battery or 5. It's a CR2032 or something like that in my Casio. I bought a pack of 3 of them for $1 once since they are in my garage door open remote too. I expect the battery to last at least 5 years, and then you have a light on your watch, and I guess an alarm if you want that too. If 15 years goes buy without watch batteries available, I doubt knowing the time until the minute will be a big deal. In that case I'd assume you could just pick an automatic watch off one of the corpses.

St. Germain 09-22-2009 03:31 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Apocalypto (Post 1929076)
$6,000 for a watch? Rip-off. If you're rich enough to spend that kind of money on a watch, you can afford to be late for a meeting.

Sorry - I must not have been clear.

I wear it virtually everyday and as I spend a lot of time in and around salt water it is critical that I have a watch that can survive that environment.

It is worth more today than it's initial purchase price, not a bad deal for a consumer item. That is why I recommended it.

I did not pay retail (your assumption) for it.

When I bought one for my Dad - cost wasn't an issue.
Buying the dream watch for a guy who sacrificed for his family and would never buy one for himself was the focus. The only time I ever saw the old man tear up over a gift - priceless to me.

ST

Apocalypto 09-22-2009 03:40 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by St. Germain (Post 1934561)
The only time I ever saw the old man tear up over a gift - priceless to me.

ST

Sorry, then it makes perfect sense. I shouldn't have said that. Truth is, I pay so much for some of my guitars that some people might say they're a rip-off. The value is in the beholder. (And, ironically, as much as I pay for my guitars, they're appreciating in value.)

Mach 09-22-2009 04:21 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Big Country (Post 1929039)
Guess I have some more reading to do and some more deciding what it is I really need.

There are cheap casios that have batteries that last 7 years. Thats what I use, 7 years is a long time.

.. and after 7 years, got a few mechanicals.

Gold Rules 09-22-2009 08:45 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by St. Germain (Post 1934561)
Sorry - I must not have been clear.

I wear it virtually everyday and as I spend a lot of time in and around salt water it is critical that I have a watch that can survive that environment.

It is worth more today than it's initial purchase price, not a bad deal for a consumer item. That is why I recommended it.

I did not pay retail (your assumption) for it.

When I bought one for my Dad - cost wasn't an issue.
Buying the dream watch for a guy who sacrificed for his family and would never buy one for himself was the focus. The only time I ever saw the old man tear up over a gift - priceless to me.

ST

+ 1,000,000............the money dont mean squat........from one who understands..........:ok:

Jimfrancisco 09-23-2009 04:16 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by scyth (Post 1929896)
Mr. James -

My preps always start with the idea/fact

That I am out in the middle of nowhere,

Whether it be city or country,

Stark naked, with nothing.

No watches, no firearms, no food, no clothes......

You get the idea.


scyth

Naked?
Dear Lord, take the sight from my eyes, for I would rather be blind than gaze upon such a horror...:4_1_72:

ShortJohnSilver 09-23-2009 04:49 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Surprised no one has mentioned the Invicta brand, they use a lot of automation in their assembly, but they do have automatic, ETA Swiss movements in some of their watches.

scyth 09-23-2009 10:28 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Jimfrancisco (Post 1936509)
Naked?
Dear Lord, take the sight from my eyes, for I would rather be blind than gaze upon such a horror...:4_1_72:

OK, Jim -

You can wear your watch.

Now, back to the subject at hand.

If you REALLY want to know how

Strung out you are on technology, and

The conveniences of modern life, and how

Far you are separated from hill-knowledge,

Then do what I said.

I'll give you a t shirt, a pair of shorts, flipflops,

And your watch, because I'm kind.

Now stay out of the house for 48 hours.

And you can't buy anything.

Doesn't matter if it is in your front yard

Or beside some highway,

Or in the woods.

You will be jonesing something bad.

Guaranteed.

Food for thought.


scyth

FiftySense 09-23-2009 11:39 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
Avoid digital like the plague. My Timex Expedition came with a 10 year battery for less than $50 Has Indiglo night light, Water Resistant 100 meters, glow in the dark hands and leather strap that does not cut up my arm like other steel band watches and keeps perfect time. If this doesn't work out, i'll go make a sundial.

Jimfrancisco 09-24-2009 11:27 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
I've done that at my BO place, and the only thing I was jonesing for was beer...:biggrin:

Quote:

Originally Posted by scyth (Post 1937088)
OK, Jim -

You can wear your watch.

Now, back to the subject at hand.

If you REALLY want to know how

Strung out you are on technology, and

The conveniences of modern life, and how

Far you are separated from hill-knowledge,

Then do what I said.

I'll give you a t shirt, a pair of shorts, flipflops,

And your watch, because I'm kind.

Now stay out of the house for 48 hours.

And you can't buy anything.

Doesn't matter if it is in your front yard

Or beside some highway,

Or in the woods.

You will be jonesing something bad.

Guaranteed.

Food for thought.


scyth


hypervel 10-05-2009 07:00 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
The EMP aspect is kind of funny. My mind latches on to it like, "OHH yeah!" Then I come to my senses.
I've been entertaining a watch purchase too. Finding all there is to offer on the web is a bitc*!
I've had Poljot-shook it to death via air chisel (DOH!)
I run 2 solar atomic Casios- one resin and one metal band. They seem to be the end all of watches. Of course solar and atomic with 200M rated water resistance cover the bases for basic watch use.....
But a new auto in the lower order of price is appealing. What shies me away is the need for periodic maintenance. I'm ignorant on what it entails and what costs are associated with it sans shipping. Cost of ownership over 30 years compared to a solar atomic creature.....what's the comparison? Why bother?
If we remove branding and simply look at movements, what is so compelling about autos besides they're cool? (no brand consideration, don't make me remind you again)
I'd love anybody to talk me into an auto, but big-boy-pants-wearing side of my brain isn't going to budge....yet.

thorgrim 10-05-2009 07:12 PM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
I'd like to eventually live a lifestyle where having a watch (or clock) isn't necessary.

Big Country 12-10-2009 10:02 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
well it was a few months in the doing, but I finally convinced my wife to let me spend the money for a watch for myself.

After much reading, deciding, pestulance, and pain I finally decided on the watch I wanted and bought it.

I bought an Invicta #9937

http://www.worldofwatches.com/images/L/9937.JPG


Amazon has a 25% off deal on some watches right now, the one I bought qualified. I also got a 5 year warranty with it, but I've read that Invicta warranty service sucks so I hope I don't have to use it.


With the discount it was $215 shipped to my door w/ 2-day shipping (Prime Member...)


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Professur 12-10-2009 10:26 AM

Re: I decided its time for me to get a watch
 
30 year old Timex. Wind it every morning, adjust it for daylight savings ... change the strap every 5 years. Every couple of years someone buys me a new watch. I leave it on the dresser until it's battery dies, then chuck it.


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