*UPDATED* A Swiss Watch for around AU $2,000

brotherfranciz on 15/10/2016 - 19:04
Last edited 20/10/2016 - 18:58

UPDATED

Hi all,

I would just like to give an update:

I've decided to take a cash settlement instead.

Thank you for all the comments and advice.

I'm sorry that I didn't end up getting any Swiss watch after all the great feedback I received!

Maybe in 10 years' time, I will reconsider that moonwatch…

Kind regards,
brotherrfranciz

UPDATED

Hi all,

My house was burgled back in July. Amongst other things stolen, I had AU$2,000 worth of watches stolen. (Luckily, being an Ozbargainer, I had paid a lot less than the value and also kept all receipts.)

My home insurance are paying for the replacements. I have decided rather than replacing like for like, I'd just pick 1 good Swiss watch and be done with it. I know, probably not the Ozbargain way to fork out for an overpriced watch, but I don't want the hassle of picking a bunch of cheap watches and just want to move on with my life.

The insurance rep told me to visit Watches of Switzerland and Hardy Brothers in Melbourne CBD, pick out a watch and they would buy for me.

I am a bit of a novice, so I would very much appreciate some advice about good Swiss watch brands within my AU$2,000 budget.

Also, a separate question more out of curiosity (insurance will only purchase from a brick and mortar store in Melbourne and not online): when doing my own research online, I keep coming across jomashop, which seem to offer Swiss watches at reduced prices, including the Omega moonwatch that I have taken an unhealthy fancy to (for my wallet). Any comments about reputation or first hand experience with jomashop?

Thank you!

Find Me A Bargain

Comments

      • John on 17/10/2016 - 19:02
        +1

        Yeah, I got my camera gears all in one bag which that alone cost $15,000 plus a few bags they took. Then my wife handbag and all her wallet in there. Lucky I keep a lot of receipt and boxes. So was able to claim almost all that was lost. A huge sigh of relief and I felt absolutely lucky I had myself insured.

        I think you should store that $2k away and just wait until you find something you really really like. Enjoy the shopping period ie. going into shops, trying some watches, and when one watch struck you and kept returning to your mind - then find a good deal and buy it! Meanwhile your 2k could sit and gain interest :P

        All the best!

  • websterp on 17/10/2016 - 07:40
    +3

    I'll respond only to the part about Joomashop in OP's original question. Yes I have bought 3 watches from them so far, in the order of value a Tag Carrera, ladies longines Dolce Vita and a Movado museum. Every time the decision was based on the price as their's was the best I could find online and in store. They are an extremely reliable and reputable business in NY so do not have any doubts about the site or the credibility of the business. There are few caveats though. Always weigh in customs duty you'll have to pay for any purchase over $1000 and they sometimes charge ridiculous shipping rates(flat rate international) so always try the shipping estimation option before pulling the trigger. And don't forget to use coupon codes. You can find heaps of those from the coupon code sites and Joomashop themselves have special offers for certain brands from time to time. They have free shipping USwide so it could be cheaper to use a package forwarding company. But to their credit every watch I've purchased arrived within 4 business days via DHL or FedEx(once shipped on a Friday and received Monday in Melbourne). Currently thinking of getting a Rado Integral from them for my partner.

    • chubbychicken on 17/10/2016 - 10:31

      Oh I did not need to find this site. Wallet is not going to like this at all… :)

    • brotherfranciz on 17/10/2016 - 17:38

      Thanks, good to know! :)

  • JimB on 17/10/2016 - 10:31
    +2

    $2k is a shitty price point for watches.

    $2k won't get you a much better watch than $1k watch.

    To get a better watch than the $1k mark, you need to spend $5k.

    I would ask if they will pay you cash instead

    Personally, if you can afford to, find the cheapest AD for your Omega moonwatch and use $2k as a large deposit. The Moonwatch is a classic.

    • brotherfranciz on 17/10/2016 - 17:40

      Yeah I've noticed that too in my own research, nothing much for $2K… Even the base models start at around $3.5K. :(

  • akastyl13 on 17/10/2016 - 10:44
    +1

    Hi, have a look at the Tissot range, they are real swiss watches and very good quality. I own 2 of them and love them. Got Tissot Tradition Chronograph for $520 and didn't need to spend $1,000.

  • Uchuujin on 17/10/2016 - 11:24
    +1

    I'd personally try and negotiate for a cash payout. My parents' place recently got broken in to and roughly $2k worth of watches and jewelery stolen, managed to negotiate a cash payout for that. With the cash you have many more options, buy a cheaper watch (or several), put the $2k towards that speedmaster you've been eyeing (and i thoroughly endorse this option, i have a moonwatch and it's easily my most versatile watch), or just park it in a savings account. It would also mean you could go grey import if you wanted to. I bought my speedy pro grey as it has a very ubiquitous movement and easily serviceable by a good watchsmith so i didn't have to worry about sending it to an AD.

    In terms of Jomashop, i've bought from them a number of times and the only issue i had was when the battery died within a few weeks. They wanted me to send it back to them under warranty which would have cost more than replacing it locally. As mentioned before, be careful of the $1k gst limit as it also counts shipping cost towards the 1k (unless you have family/friend/mule to carry it in to the country on your behalf).

    If you really can't get the cash, for around 2k local i'd definitely look at nomos like a few people have already mentioned. Specifically the orion models for a pure dress watch. Monards recently became an AD and i know they carry the brand at their Crown store. The only drawback with Nomos is that they're mostly manual wind, but if you were looking at the moonwatch then it should't be a problem at all. The RRP is around 2.5k but i reckon you can negotiate a good discount off that.

    Best of luck.

    • brotherfranciz on 17/10/2016 - 17:44

      Thanks for the tips, very much appreciated. :)

  • stqpdb on 17/10/2016 - 13:17
    +3

    At 2k AUD, you're kind of stuck in the dead zone of watch buying. It is my opinion that there's nothing worth buying between $1k and $5k, because most of it is just ETA movements which you can also find <$1k in Hamilton, Longines, etc. I'd probably buy a Seiko Marinemaster with $2k, but would feel that it's not worth 8x the cost of a normal Seiko SKX diver.

    • [Deactivated] on 17/10/2016 - 15:58
      +2

      Either 1 expensive watch (straight 30% off retail price at any jewellery store) or a few nice midrange pieces.

      Ive bargained a close to 2k fredrique constant down to 1200. Hamilton pan europ and jazz master are also very nice

      Alternatively you could look at a 10-15 year old omega (never done this… I assume they hold up well)

      Christopher Ward on sale frequently for about 700 AUD

      Or 4 nice very different seikos (SARB035, cocktail time, SKX009 and one of a bazillion fliegers)

  • DiscoJango on 17/10/2016 - 15:16

    $2k you can get a nice brand new watch, or a "nice" 2nd hand watch. There are plenty of shops in the city selling 2nd hand watches. Im thinking of selling my tag to a shop which "consignes" it to be sold on my behalf. Rrp is $6500, 2nd hand is about $3k.

  • Tech and cars on 17/10/2016 - 15:16
    +1

    Frederique Constant - I've got one - it's around the $1800 price point for a decent automatic watch(I really like their rose gold/brown leather strap combo).

    Picked it up from Angus and Coote. It's worth getting a special moving watch box for it as well - see if you can get that thrown in at the same deal. So on the days you don't wear the watch, it doesn't lose the time.

  • [Deactivated] on 17/10/2016 - 16:17
    +1

    still rocking my pebble baby. rolex faces for days

    • brotherfranciz on 17/10/2016 - 17:49
      +1

      lol unfortunately my original Pebble was one of the watches stolen… The stupid burglar didn't even take the charging cable!

  • Raheen on 17/10/2016 - 17:03
    +2

    You would have to be slightly crazy to buy a brand new Swiss watch, the retail mark up on luxury is huge as soon as you walk out the door you lose alot 30-40%, up your budget, look on chrono24. I get mine second hand from Japan, biggest luxury market in the world with a penchant for old is detestable, they flip alot of last years model for the new one. Omega speedmaster 3570.50 man on the moon, iconic, suits many situations, AUD 3K when I got mine when exchange rate was 85 jpy to the AUD, absolutely mint condition.

    • locosam on 17/10/2016 - 23:42
      +2

      Yeah, Japan is watch heaven.
      I got a planet ocean (with big discounts) just before leaving for japan, and when I was there, I was shocked at what was in the same price range!

      That said, its sad that $2k doesnt get you anything 'nice'. Yes theres history to it timepiece etc, but ultimately its man jewelry.

      Id recommend op to cash it out, find out what he really wants, then spend the dough.

      But to impress your average person on the street, TAG is what you want.
      Nothing against TAG's (I really like the Monaco), but you could rock a IWC and its ho-hum, but show up in your quartz TAG, and all of a sudden its like, whoa, you must be doing well for yourself :)

      • brotherfranciz on 18/10/2016 - 12:18
        +1

        Yeah I notice a lot of bank managers wear TAGs.

        With the feedback so far, I'm definitely considering the cash payment instead.

  • ChatCPT on 17/10/2016 - 17:13

    Tag Heuer Carrera - $3k

    Gets so many compliments. My milkshake brings all the babes to the yard

    • Solrak on 17/10/2016 - 17:40
      -1

      Tags are overpriced for what they are. They don't get a great wrap in the watch industry either. More fashion over form really….

      • ChatCPT on 17/10/2016 - 20:34
        +1

        Lol. Arent they all fashion?

        I think you are after a Casio

      • Herbse on 18/10/2016 - 17:01
        +2

        What he means to say is Tag is one of the brands that spend more money on advertising than R&D or parts. They are similar to Beats headphones where the majority of the price of the product is to cover advertising costs and not the product itself.

    • dgs on 19/10/2016 - 22:33

      very little horologically interesting about tags. although I must say, the calibre 18 telemeter is growing on me

  • Solrak on 17/10/2016 - 17:45
    +1

    I would look at some German watch brands (Sinn, Glashutte, Nomos) as an alternative to Swiss watches. Although you may have to settle for secondhand for some models

    • brotherfranciz on 17/10/2016 - 17:51

      Thanks for the advice, I'll look into it. :)

      • cameldownunder on 17/10/2016 - 18:30

        I would get 2 watches: a 500$ Tissot ( everyday use ) and a $1500 Rado/Breitling/tag showoff watch. ( I only have a Rado and a Sin-Tag-Heuer )

    • devpress on 18/10/2016 - 21:35
      +1

      Glashutte would definitely be out of OP's price range (10k+), plus no boutiques, ADs or indeed any watch stores sell it in Aus

      Nomos would be closer, though still above budget, and again don't think any stores here carry it. Nomos are an in-house manufacture, which is quite remarkable given their price point

      Sinn I wouldn't bother with …

    • matt-ozb on 18/10/2016 - 21:42
      +2

      Sinn is a good option.

      Why mention Glashutte? Not even close to a $2K budget.

  • maybeamacy on 17/10/2016 - 19:35

    I have a Speedy Pro w/ Sapphire Sandwich, not the hesalite. TBH, I don't even wear it because I always forget to wind it up and it loses its time :(

    I wouldn't mind a Tag Heuer Automatic but as someone said before they're not seen in a very good light if you're talking to watch connoisseurs.

    • ThadtheChad on 17/10/2016 - 22:07
      +2

      They're the "Beats by Dr Dre" of watches.

    • Rizzler on 18/10/2016 - 21:18

      I love the speedy. Interested in trading for a Tag Heuer Carerra CV5111 Boutique Edition?? I'll put $500 on top of the trade.

    • 2ndeffort on 08/11/2016 - 13:30

      I dont think Tag are seen as being bad watches, because of their massive marketing push and their lineup of celebrity ambassadors like Leonardo Di Caprio etc they are perhaps seen as 'buying a badge', the Lexus/BMW of the watch world! Even more expensive and exclusive watches like JLC, Patek Phillipe, vacheron constantine etc are however seen as traditional craftsmanship. Tag make some excellent watches the equal of many but they are seen as the big over marketed too expensive for what you get brand. The Tag Formula 1 Quartz watch for example is seen as the stereotype favourite of 22 year old stockbrokers that have just received their bonus cheque. The more traditional Tag Automatic Models are normally regarded highly.

      I am currently wearing a Tag Calibre 8 GMT and it is the equal of my Omega Aqua Terra in terms of quality etc.

  • fruit on 17/10/2016 - 20:23

    Back of white van

  • obsolet on 17/10/2016 - 22:11
    +4

    Whatever you decide to buy - especially Swiss - make sure that:

    1.You see it in person and on your wrist.

    When I was looking into watches, I got lots of catalogues from different makers - IWC, Jaeger, Lange, Breguet, etc. The catalogues themselves are beautiful - usually hard bound, quality pieces - and the photos inside are exquisite. However, that creates a certain expectation of how a watch will look like on the wrist.

    I still recall almost deciding on an IWC Portuguese chrono on the basis of photos online, in their catalogue and then seeing it in real life next to a Portuguese Automatic - there was such a clear difference of quality and finish that I didn't give the chrono another look.

    2.It's somewhat special for you.

    Whether it is an iconic piece - e.g. the watch on the moon (Speedmaster) on the one in the polo game (JLC Reverso), or the one on the race track (Tag Monaco) - or not, the watch should feel special for you. There are thousands and thousands of moon watches - don't get one because it's special if it doesn't speak to you.

    I would never buy a Rolex - just like I would never buy a Montblanc pen - they have a strong pedigree, lots of people love them, but they don't speak to me and if they don't, they would only be an expensive "meh" addition to their respective segment…

    • brotherfranciz on 17/10/2016 - 22:47

      Thanks, I knew about the moon watch and the Monaco, but not the Reverso. Just googled and read about it - I love reading about the history of watches. :)

      • cameldownunder on 18/10/2016 - 10:07

        When I went to buy a $500 Tissot ( I know, some might not consider it a luxury item, but it is the most expensive watch I have ), I was told that the Tissot with 5 buttons have a Citizen inside.

        • Save Medicare on 18/10/2016 - 21:32

          Miyota 9015 is a great self-winding movement for the $500 price-point. If you're looking at a Tissot for $500 though with 5 buttons it was probably a quartz chronograph which may have used a miyota/citizen movement

      • [Deactivated] on 18/10/2016 - 17:13

        Reverso is my favorite! And you can get many versions of Reverso: single face, duo face, sun moon, pink gold, white gold, etc. Not a Rolex fan, nothing against the brand or Rolex wearers, it's just not my style. I prefer something a bit low key and not too well known. I even have a Gerald Genta Mickey mouse watch.

        • obsolet on 19/10/2016 - 08:05
          +1

          Reverso is a nice piece indeed.
          My favourite maker is Vacheron Constantin. Contrary to TAG and Rolex wearers, I actually prefer when no one has a clue what I have on my wrist.

        • [Deactivated] on 19/10/2016 - 09:51

          @floppydesk: last time I was wearing my basic vacheron overseas at work and one of my clients recognized it straight away!

    • matt-ozb on 18/10/2016 - 21:41

      How is he going to afford a IWC or Breguet for $2K?

      I'm not really keen on Rolex watches, but at least they hold their value well or appreciate.

      • obsolet on 19/10/2016 - 07:58

        I think you missed the point of my post…

      • 2ndeffort on 08/11/2016 - 13:34

        Not going to get a Rolex either for $2K, even a 2nd hand one

  • plentifoo on 18/10/2016 - 01:33
    +2

    For $2000 new, not much in the way of luxury Swiss watch brands. I'm more a vintage kinda guy, so I'd shop around for an older seamaster/speedmaster with some history and patina over a modern timepiece.

    For NEW mechanical timepieces only, off the top of my head, in no particular order, I'd consider the below watchmakers to make the most out of your insurance claim:

    1) Oris
    2) Nomos
    3) Hamilton
    4) Junghans
    5) Sinn
    6) Squale

  • MasterNoob on 18/10/2016 - 02:46

    Buy a Fitbit.

    • brotherfranciz on 18/10/2016 - 08:03

      I had two Garmins stolen (Vivofit 2 and Vivosmart), although my insurer counted them as electronics so they became part of my JB Hifi gift card.

  • aimee88 on 18/10/2016 - 02:57
    +1

    I've purchased from Jomashop, a Frederique Constant watch. Perfect transaction, everything as expected, international warranty meant I was able to have it serviced in Sydney at Angus + Coote (licenced service centre) without any cost.

    Hope that helps!

  • ZippyRoo on 18/10/2016 - 10:17
    +1

    I highly recommend Monard's in Melbourne CBD. They have excellent customer service and are always open to bargaining. I'm not affiliated with them but have bought four watches from them to date. Mostly for family members overseas.

    I don't really think you can get the Moonwatch for $2k, but if you're willing to spend around 4k, then you can probably get it at that price. The good thing I love about Omega is they advertise the actual RRP on the website, not like Rolex, where the price and the discount is not really disclosed until you visit the store.

    The Moonwatch is an excellent classical choice, you'll love it for years to come. The hesalite glass has its benefits and you can easily polish it but the manual winding can get a bit annoying. There are other more expensive speedys, for example my hubby really loved the look of the 57 but that's wayyyy too expensive!

    There are so many Swiss brands to choose from these days and the prices differ quite a bit. I think you need to first find a look you really like, then think about what is it that you really want in a watch. If you're looking for re-sell value down the track, then Rolex is your best bet even though it's going to be way higher than 2k of course. If you don't mind re-sell value too much but still want something prestigious, then I'd go Omega. All the other brands to me are brands I'd only buy to have something different, I wouldn't make them my first investment. Although having said all that, I'm not really sure if you can buy a men's Omega for around 2k brand new. You might need to consider pre-loved, European Watch Gallery in Melbourne CBD is a good place to start. If you're travelling, I found Singapore a good place to buy watches. A few years ago I got a basic Omega Women's De Ville for 1700 whereas the RRP in Melbourne is around 3700.

    My family is all loyal Omega fans through and through, so my opinions might be biased. Good luck with your watch shopping and do tell us what you get in the end.

  • KeplersLaws on 18/10/2016 - 11:04

    jomashop is alright. legit watches but service can be a bit :/

  • macrocephalic on 18/10/2016 - 11:48

    Be a true ozbargainer, buy a $2k watch and sell it for $1800. Use your own money to buy a $20 casio. Make $1780.

  • syousef on 18/10/2016 - 13:09
    -4

    I honestly don't understand what any bargain hunter is doing buying a $2000 watch? WTF will it do that a $50-$200 watch won't? Most people I know don't even buy or wear watches anymore - they prefer to rely on their phone. I like a good solid wrist watch but not for that price. I'd just consider it a liability to look after and something else that marks me out for mugging and pick pocketing.

    Each to their own I suppose.

    • brotherfranciz on 18/10/2016 - 16:05

      The same argument could be used for things such as Apple products, GoPro, smartphones, TVs, cameras, cars, PCs, kitchen appliances… I guess the value (and whether something is a bargain) is defined by the market.

      Also, I personally hate taking out my phone to look at the time.

      I regret buying so many watches anyway - I only have two wrists! So I figured I should just buy 1 really good watch and be done with it.

    • brotherfranciz on 18/10/2016 - 18:44

      Sorry, just to note I didn't downvote you…

      I must admit I am torn: part of me wants a good Swiss watch, but another part is telling me that I'm dreamin', and to remind myself that I've got a mortgage to pay, other commitments, etc…

    • ThadtheChad on 18/10/2016 - 23:02

      @syousef

      If you're looking for something purely utilitarian, sure the $50-200 watch will do. If you're actually a watch aficionado and actually enjoy a piece of art/engineering/history on your wrist, then you're past the realms of simply telling the time. Moreover, for many people, it is an integral part of their ensemble.

      OzB spans multiple demographics, from guys looking to make "hacks to save $1.2 from Maccas" to folks keen on buying top notch kitchen appliances or (in this case) good watches. Being a bargain hunter does not mean they are frugal in all aspects of life; simply put, a lot of folk just want a good deal on things they'd buy anyway. :)

      Frugality has its place, but sometimes it's nice to revel in the finer things in life (if one can afford it ofcourse).

  • h0mbre on 18/10/2016 - 16:17
    +4

    I had a budget of 2.5k from a family member for a watch as a wedding present.
    I spent a long time looking at Swiss & German watches and found nothing I liked, I even made a thread on watchuseek for recommendations but still all the watches I liked were well above 2.5k or well under.
    I think 2k~ is a black hole of a spot where you don't get much value.
    You'll get a nice case with the Swiss branding but an ETA movement (nothing wrong with that but as I said, not the best value).

    I ended up choosing a watch much lower than my budget limit (Seiko Brightz SDGM003) and I love it, I'm very happy with my decision.

    I found that having a budget given to me affected my decision making and I was looking at watches that fit the budget but not ones I necessarily really loved.

  • yowiepowah on 18/10/2016 - 17:27
    +4

    As others said, $2K is an awkward price point where you struggle to find something of great value, its probably wise to either go down to the sub $1K range and find a quality product at a fraction of the cost, or save for something impressive at the $5K+ price point.

    Having said that, if you don't mind purchasing a pre-owned watch you might have some good deals if you push the budget slightly and have some good luck. Nomos, Cartier, Omega, Breitling are all respectable brands where you can find entry level items at that price range (pre-owned)

    Watch snobs will talk about ETA movement, but you can spend over $10K on a reputable brand and still end up with an ETA movement. The fact of the matter is that the large majority of the population simply does not care about movements. As long as the movement lies beneath a beautiful case, and the quality of workmanship is good, then I say you should just go for it. But please for the love of all that is holy, stay away from the fashion labels!

    • brotherfranciz on 18/10/2016 - 18:53

      Yeah, I also had that impression regarding the price point when doing my own research, so it's good to get confirmation from others who are in the know, and that I'm not missing anything or looking in the wrong places.

    • plentifoo on 19/10/2016 - 00:06
      +1

      Great point. Plenty of other Swiss/German brands I would recommend from $500-1500. $2000 is truly an awkward price point and you're on the cusp of some very reputable and established brands if you are willing to buy preowned/vintage. However, for the purpose of making the most value of your insurance claim, I'll be sticking to my previous comment and recommendations.

  • matt-ozb on 18/10/2016 - 21:39

    Seiko Marine Master SBBN027 …
    http://www.seiyajapan.com/collections/divers-collections/pro…

    • Fullhalter on 18/10/2016 - 22:59

      He said dress no diver, and no online, but I commend your taste in watches.

  • hellbuster on 19/10/2016 - 07:17
    +1

    Maurice Lacroix, Hamilton, Baume Mercier.

  • ZippyRoo on 19/10/2016 - 09:40

    I forgot to mention that when you buy expensive watches, you also need to think about servicing. As someone else mentioned before, the costs can be quite extravagant. Some of the mid tier brands, like Rados and Hamiltons can have pretty reasonable service charges. For example, changing batteries for a Rado at the Swatch Group office in Glen Iris was only around $30 last time we went.

    There is a pretty nice dressy brand which I just thought of now - Georg Jensen. Their watches are Swiss made and if you like minimalistic Scandi designs which seemed to be all the rave these days, then these watches will appeal to you. If you're not in a hurry, I suggest wait for them to have sales. The SA's will tell you that they don't do big discounts on their watches, but recently they released a new version of their Koppel watches and all the previous versions were 40% to 60% off. The prices were brought down to around $600 for quartz and around $1500 for automatic. They might still have some lying around in the stores if you go in and ask.

    • [Deactivated] on 19/10/2016 - 10:11
      +1

      True, servicing can cost quite a bit. Last time I got my JLC geographique serviced it cost me $1700. Luckily the watch was sort of a bargain buy from eBay so it didn't hurt too much.

    • plentifoo on 19/10/2016 - 11:29
      +2

      Why buy a Quartz Swiss watch with an insurance claim of $2000? Op may as well learn about the beauty of horology through a handcrafted piece that runs on a unique movement instead. I understand to each his own, but never buy a Quartz - Swiss or otherwise, if you have a decent enough budget available.

      Swiss made and Swiss movements are Not synonymous. Some small brand houses may use Japanese movements in their watches. Georg Jensen do everything from dinner to houseware, I apologise for the hint of watch snobbery in me, but don't settle for a general wares brand with a $2000 budget. Look at nomos instead if you like bauhaus /uncluttered dials, very contemporary watchmaking house with a rock solid history

      • Fullhalter on 19/10/2016 - 12:02
        +2

        I would not buy a "Georg Jensen" either, but quartz has its place too. HAQ. Tough movement. Solar divers. etc.

        The OP's criteria 2K, B&M only, Swiss made really limit his options.

        2K won't get him a 'unique movement' either, it's barely enough for a Chinese* Tourbillon let alone Swiss.

        *disclaimer: I LIKE Chinese watches

        • brotherfranciz on 19/10/2016 - 12:35

          Just to clarify, I didn't say B&M only.

          What I meant in that post was that B&M were the only ones with a new watch within my price range. I am more than happy to go with any other Swiss brand suggestions available for around $2K!

        • ZippyRoo on 19/10/2016 - 13:02
          +1

          @brotherrfranciz:

          I thought he meant the brand initially too, but I think maybe he was trying to say brick & mortar store only?

        • brotherfranciz on 19/10/2016 - 14:02

          @jerrizhao:

          Ah yes, good one.

        • plentifoo on 19/10/2016 - 14:18

          Have no clue why you even brought up the tourbillon. I'm talking single complication, at most small second hand or chronograph for a $2000 budget.

          I think you read my words wrong. Unique movement (ETA, Miyota, lemania, etc) is not the same as unique complication (chronograph, tourbillon, perpetual calendar, etc)

        • Fullhalter on 19/10/2016 - 14:38

          @avexdevil:

          What's so unique about ETA, Miyota, other than being mechanical?

      • ZippyRoo on 19/10/2016 - 13:09

        I agree that I wouldn't buy a GJ quartz watch at full price, I think it's overpriced for what it's worth, but when they're discounted at 60% off, then I think it's worth it. GJ started as a jeweller a long time ago and some of his pieces are absolutely timeless. He then started making watches and some of the women's watches are not just a watch, it is also a beautiful piece of jewellery. Not that the OP will be wearing them, of course.

        The GJ automatics have the same ETA movements used on other high-end brands like Omega, G&M, Tag, IWC and etc, and to be honest, I would probably do it the other way around, I would buy Georg Jensen jewellery and watches but not their general wares.

  • maverickjohn on 19/10/2016 - 12:05
    +2

    I think if you are happy to spend a little extra you can get a great oris for $2800 the oris atelier skeleton is my pick but unlike tag or Omega its not a brand you go around bragging about. Lots of charm little renown.
    http://www.gregoryjewellers.com.au/oris-artelier-transluscen…

    • brotherfranciz on 19/10/2016 - 12:45
      +1

      Thanks for the suggestion. I'm not a huge fan of skeletons though!

      Also, I'm not looking to brag about my watch, so Oris could be the brand for me. :)

      I am looking for something understated, not flashy and not a Rolex (can't afford one anyway so that's fine). I don't want people looking at me and my Rolex and thinking "what a tosser"… :P

  • Sleeken on 19/10/2016 - 13:46
    +2

    Under $2k my suggestion would be the Oris Aquis. It is understated (as in toolish), distinct in its design but feels/looks like a quality piece. I have owned a few swiss watches in the sub 2k range from longines, tissot, tag (used) and Oris seems to give good value for money.

    • Lunatic on 19/10/2016 - 15:18

      I haven't owned one but the Aquis is beautiful looking

  • benbarren on 19/10/2016 - 16:29
    +1

    i'd go a microbrand from europe and get a SWISS eta movement for a proper price and value. Aussie prices only get good for brands like Tudor at around $3k-$4k (Pelagos or Black Bay models recommended)
    Stowa is a fave and in your price range with change https://www.stowa.de/en/Home/
    Steinhart 1/3rd your budget but swiss ETA movement and German design.
    https://www.steinhartwatches.de/
    More avante garde is Vintage VDB also German
    https://www.vintage-vdb.com/forum/index.php
    I determined i like German diver watches.. so key is to decide what style of watch u like.. then find a brand/price point and retailer etc.
    Have a read on micros over on WUS http://forums.watchuseek.com/

    • brotherfranciz on 19/10/2016 - 19:17

      Thanks for the links, checking them out right now!

  • dgs on 19/10/2016 - 20:48
    +2

    As with many other posters here, I feel 2k is a bit of a rough area.
    Nothing too good or that flashy in this area.
    Others have mentioned Longines, Tudor, Nomos, but at 2k you'll be hard pressed to find a good new Tudor or Nomos under that price. The Tudor BlackBay is beautiful but a bit out of that price range. The new Black Bay 36 is about 3k. All the Nomos prices can be seen at their online store, but would be worthwhile to check out master watchmaking in Sydney. I think their cheapest watch is close to, but not under 2k. (That said - I purchased my Tangente for about 2000 two years ago).
    I would also include Oris in that list. You can get the Divers 65 for under 2k. The Longines legend diver is another good option.
    A Seiko diver or GS quartz (as I believe someone may have mentioned) might be a good option too? check out seiyajapan!
    Purchased a Stowa 1938 for around that price range in the past, but the QC on it wasn't so flash :(

    Also - I've used jomashop before, can vouch for them.

  • Godric on 19/10/2016 - 21:39

    and heres me thinking im a cool kid looking for a bargain on fossils jr1353 ;/

    • brotherfranciz on 19/10/2016 - 22:44

      lol the chronograph layout reminds me of Mickey Mouse. :P

      • Godric on 20/10/2016 - 17:28

        .. : (

  • dvd6 on 19/10/2016 - 22:16

    I too bought an Omega watch in japan. Pre owned but all the watches that I looked at were mint. They were also a fraction of the price. Ended up buying an omega speedmaster for around $3 -3.5k. I bought at a store called Jackroad. Came with Omega warranty card etc.

    • dvd6 on 19/10/2016 - 23:28

      Edit: bought my watch brand new from above place but you can get pre owned ones from there as well

  • peterpeterpumpkin on 20/10/2016 - 10:44
    +1

    To make syousef feel better, here's a negative comment about $2k watches to also be down voted.

    There's a strong correlation between low self-esteem and the acquisition of luxury items. The rising middle classes in developing countries are obsessed with luxury items to an extent that would be a source of embarrassment here. If you can validate the engineering and craftsmanship are worthy of your income then go ahead. If you've got credit card debt then tackle that first if they offer cash instead.

    You might be responsible but we have no idea based on some pseudonym on a forum. I've encountered a lot of men with poor upbringings that were so obsessed with social status that it led to their bankruptcy.

    • brotherfranciz on 20/10/2016 - 13:32
      +2

      Haha, yes I am responsible and live within my own means. I don't gamble (not even the Melbourne Cup or the footy tipping at my workplace, yes I am that stingy), I don't smoke, I car pool to work, no cc debt, and no hecs debt (thanks to my parents for that one).

      The only debt I have is the mortgage for my modest house, which I am repaying and still earning enough to build up savings to renovate in a year or so.

      My insurer has responded to my e-mail that I can take a cash settlement instead. I will use the money to renovate - I figure the burglar(s) won't be able to steal my new kitchen!

      I'll have to update my post tonight and disappoint most of the commenters here! The Omega moonwatch will just have to wait. :P

      • peterpeterpumpkin on 20/10/2016 - 13:42
        +1

        Well that's good to hear!

        P.S. keep an eye on that kitchen…;) (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1239025/I-stolen-kit…)

        • brotherfranciz on 20/10/2016 - 18:42

          Wow.

          My kitchen needs a bit more work than that though: an island bench, new cupboards, opening up a wall or two, etc. That's the kind of thing I will be spending the money on.

      • Uchuujin on 20/10/2016 - 14:10
        +1

        Glad to hear you managed to get a cash payout. While i'm disappointed that you won't be joining the Cult of Moonwatch, i applaud your sensible decision to upgrade your kitchen (and hopefully home security system!). Don't worry, one day you'll get that Speedy!

        • brotherfranciz on 20/10/2016 - 17:58
          +1

          Haha thanks! I already spent around $6K on upgrading my home security: dead bolt locks on all doors, security screen door (front door is all frosted glass with a wooden frame, so I used to need to open the door to see who was knocking…), curtains (as opposed to the previous blinds that were essentially see through!), additional fencing, improved motorised roller door for the garage, sensor spotlights, and Arlo security camera system.

    • ThadtheChad on 20/10/2016 - 23:17
      +2

      IMHO, very valid points being made here. The reason why you have no negs is because of this:

      If you can validate the engineering and craftsmanship are worthy of your income then go ahead.

      A very fair statement. No one should be financially overreaching in order to pay for something like a luxury watch. There are far more important things in life. :)

      • dlakers3peat on 21/10/2016 - 10:30

        That statement could be said about anything like cars, clothese, holidays etc. I guess what you value the most is what matters.

  • syousef on 21/10/2016 - 14:54

    Good outcome OP. Hope the cash buys you many other good things, at a bargain price.

  • 2ndeffort on 04/11/2016 - 16:20
    +1

    Sorry your watches were nicked. Years ago the share house I lived in was robbed and the same thing happened to me. I pooled the payout and replaced mountains of random useless muck with some new useful stuff, essentially swapping 12 pairs of different running shoes with a new washing machine etc. Since then I have become a bit of a watch nut.

    $2K is not a lot if you are buying from Melbourne based ADs. The Tag/Omega boutiques on Collins St aer the most expensive places in the world I have seen some of their models and I have compared them over the counter in Hong Kong, Las Vegas, LA and Japan. I have an Omega Aqua Terra that I bought from an Authorised Omega dealer in the US with a factory backed international warranty. The difference in price from Collins St to LA would have paid for my return flight to the US. A friend bought one over the counter at the Duty Free shop in Haneda airport Tokyo for nearly $1.5K less than the Collins St price.

    I have a collection of around 10 watches, mostly swiss autos but also some Seiko and a few Micro brands (NZ Magrette is a favourite). I have also bought and sold a few on the 2nd hand market. If your insurer doesn't want you to buy grey market then I imagine 2nd hand is even more dangerous.

    I don't think you will get a Speedmaster for double your budget so probably best not to get your hopes up. Personally I would love an Omega Planet Ocean but unless my Powerball numbers come up or I sell all the other watches to get it, I cant see it ever happening. If you love that watch create an account over on the world's largest watch forum 'watchuseek' and ask over there for a 'homage' watch that looks like a Speedmaster.

    I have one Swiss Watch that I bought over the counter here in OZ, wearing it now, a Tag Heuer Calibre 8 GMT. I bought it at a Jewellers called 'Mazuchelli's', they seem to have a chain of jewellery shops around town. Initially I bought a Longines but the movement was squeaky and they tried to tell me this was normal. I could not have something squeaking at the end of my arm all day so I insisted they take it back and I added some $$ and swapped it for the TAG. They do some other less expensive Swiss Brands like Frederick Constant etc.

    Swiss brands that might fit within your budget and be available over the counter here in Oz are: Oris, Hamilton, Mido, Frederick Constant, Ball.

    You would get a great Seiko Auto for less than your budget, I have a Seiko Sumo that I bought in the US for around AUD$600 from an authorized Seiko dealer. Somebody in one of the posts above mentioned Tudor. If anyone has a link where I could buy a 'Pelagos' for $2k please share!

    if you have to buy over the counter (and accept this is the single most expensive way to go by far), haggle and play the shops off against each other. Watches are like rugs and used cars, the seller expects you to haggle and has built in a margin to negotiate. if you pay retail you are being 'had'. Overseas if you are keen you can normally get around 30% off if you bargain hard on some models. I would be expecting 15% off RRP as a starting point and I would be prepared to play shops of against each other.

    There is a Micro watch company called unimaginatively the 'Melbourne Watch Company' http://www.melbournewatch.com.au/ who is making waves and quite well regarded. Apparently a ;local 'Melbourneite' watch nut that has started making his own micro brand and selling them all over the world. His watches are well within your budget and he is a local Melbourne person for after sales support. I like the idea of a local watch nut done good so I think he will be my next watch purchase.

    • brotherfranciz on 04/11/2016 - 17:35

      Wow thanks for the advice! :)

      Good to know that Melbourne shops are that much more expensive, and also good to know I should haggle. I'll definitely keep those tips in mind!

      Yes, I have actually heard of the Melbourne Watch Company. I think I heard of them through kickstarter (or a similar website) a few years ago. I wasn't sure how reputable they were so have never really considered their watches.

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