Re-emerging and posting more often

[CBG1]

Hey everyone, just re-introducing myself. Haven't been on the forum much in recent years, but starting to post more and thought I'd add a thread here.
So much great info on the forum, and I'm starting to venture out of just the for-sale threads!

Seems like there's unwritten rules about posting too much info about real/not real, but thanks to everyone who does respond and adds some information, I've learned a lot and feel caught up.

I'm totally overwhelmed by the increase in quality/confusion of counterfeits. Sheesh. Or even 'counterfeits' that use real pictures, then there's just no basis for truth! Of course authenticity is an age-old problem, was always an issue when I purchased my first luxury watch ten years ago, but back then it seemed so much easier to distinguish ... now the gap is so much smaller!

Now, perusing the for sale here and elsewhere, I get caught in a loop of contemplation, especially on something like a 116610LN where pre-owned is (relatively) close to retail, where I just think it's better to go the AD route, pay the premium, and avoid the deliberations about authenticity. But then there are some very reputable trusted sellers here who I'd like to add business to and are totally (if not more) trustworthy than ADs. Everyone's got their price/time/effort optimization formula unique to their own values! I know these are all well-posted, well-replied, well-discussed issues. Most 'new' ideas aren't ever really 'new'. Except maybe the wheel, that was pretty original I bet.

For what it's worth, below is my checklist of next-up acquisitions in an ideal world. Would appreciate suggestions/pointers via PM on good sources or trusted dealers to reach out to (except the 116610's those are easy enough to find):
116610LN or 116610 LV ideally, but not sure if I have the $ and patience
Chopard GT XL Power Control (non-chrono, black dial only)
Cartier Calibre de Diver
Breitling Superocean 46mm Series I or Series II

Always liked, but would rather get the above ones first:
Montblanc Timewalker Big Date, small seconds (first version, hollow lugs, and not the Big Date GMT subdial)
Omega Speedmaster Broad Arrow
Blancpain FF Tribute (but not until after a Daytona or even a 16710 Pepsi/Stick/3186 ... can you imagine the price delta between those two (BP FF Tribute and 16710 w/3186 20 years from now ...!?)

[Allanmodel]

Welcome back~~

[Art 1]

Welcome back

[MonBK]

Welcome home.

[swatty]

Welcome back

[HL65]

Welcome back!

[Urosfan]

Welcome back

[yannis]

Welcome back man!

[SearChart]

Welcome back!

[CBG1]

Thanks everyone! Looking forward!

[Audemars Piguet]

Welcome

[Hairdude1]

Welcome back