A new appreciation for good old Quartz ?

[Blackdog]

Who would imagine 35 years ago that Quartz watches would be the “oldies” in a WIS to WIS conversation…

For the longest time (ever since I outgrew the quartz CASIO watches of the late 80s) I have been a mechanical watch die-hard kind of guy, like many WIS around here.

I went from a vintage Omega Speedmaster c1045 to a Tudor Sub, then to more Omegas: Speedies, Seamasters. And then a Rolex Sub, and a Blackbay, and Reversos, and even more Rolex... You can see the pattern there.

Then, one day I bought this thing as an affordable watch to take diving:


(Not my picture)

And I have to admit that it is a very well executed and fun watch to wear ! The Kinetic thing is an interesting concept and the GMT functionality operates exactly as on a GMT Master II. So, it was kinda justified in the collection.

Then there was an opportunity to buy this one in unbeatable conditions, and of course, I went for it:



But clearly, working for ESA since 2002, it is indeed a fully justifiable piece in my collection. The Space connection, the titanium, and it is a bit of a cult watch in itself.

And now I've gotten this:



My excuses are many: It's a historically important, iconic diver. It is as purpose designed as few other tool watches are. It looks like no other diver watch out there, etc.

And not only did I get it... I love it !!!!

So now I’m starting to get worried…. Is there anything wrong with me !?!

[Jay (Eire)]

Hah! There's nothing wrong with you, lots of love for Quartz here too although my Quartz affair is very much focused on Seiko. Here's two of the Quartz crew:

[scarlet knight]

I admire the tradition and craftsmanship of mechanical watches. But if I want to know what time it is, quartz is more accurate.

[benlee]

Quartz have many advantages over mechanical

- Way more Cheaper cost
- Light hence more comfortable on the wrist
- No need to wind
- No need maintenance/service, only change battery
- Run for years
- Super accurate


I picked up this HugoBoss Quartz watch and has been wearing it for the past few days. Cost only 200 bucks but it really looks good!

[Star Ferry]

Grand Seiko quartz is pretty cool. Movement is sealed, which makes battery changes cheap and easy

[regnant]

Bulova has got a movement inside whose second hand sweeps like a mechanic watch

[vukotab]

I never hated quartz watches, there are some really cool and interesting battery-powered movements out there, especially from Grand Seiko.

Plus, it's good thing to strap something that accurate sometimes...

[second time]

Picked this Grand Seiko up the other day. Beautifully finished watch and bracelet and one of the most accurate quartz movements ever made, +/- 10 seconds a year! No more wondering about cosc specs anymore.