Best watch <$1000 that retains its value?

[rozyd]

Originally Posted by Alcan

Take a hard look at Marathon SAR, built like a tank.

Only thing to be concerned with - and this might be a one off and totally on me, is this is the only 316L watch I own that causes an allergic reaction. I've ran the bracelet through an ultrasonic cleaner, and I still get red itchy bumps when I wear it. This is a development that's happened within the past 2-3 years. Maybe it's my body rejecting non-Rolex watches.

[travisb]

For me, I have a Steinhart OVM and MKII LRRP. Very solid build and quality for under 1k.

[J!m]

I got my early ('69 I think) Omega Speedmaster Mk. II for $1300 on the original bracelet.

I tok a risk on it but it paid off.

Do you homework and really know what you are buying and you can find unusual deals like that, although currently decent runing Mk. II's can be had under 2000 pretty easily.

With the release of the new Mk II, these classic models will probably appreciate although that is not why I bought mine...

[osamu]

you can find some used nomos around $1000, but might need to save a little more depending on the model. Know what style watch you're looking for?

[p_mcgee]

Stowa Marine & Junghans Max Bill hold their value pretty well.

[vukotab]

It all depends on which style you prefer.
If you are searching for a diver, than Longines Hydroconquest is a way to go.
Built like a tank, with solid link bracelet, 300m water resistance and reliable ETA movements inside (newer ones are powered by 2892-2 instead of 2824-2).
And let's not forget about Hamiltons, great watches for money.

[bzabodyn]

Seiko Shogun or anything from Halios

BZ

[Alcan]

Originally Posted by rozyd

Only thing to be concerned with - and this might be a one off and totally on me, is this is the only 316L watch I own that causes an allergic reaction. I've ran the bracelet through an ultrasonic cleaner, and I still get red itchy bumps when I wear it.

Marathon watches are shipped with a rubber strap. The steel bracelet is an option.

[Psmith]

Originally Posted by style88

get steinhart. You can get a new one and it retains the value really well. Their stocks are always running out fast. Infact, i think some of the discontinued models are selling higher than their original price.

+1

[rozyd]

Originally Posted by Alcan

Marathon watches are shipped with a rubber strap. The steel bracelet is an option.

Mine shipped as a combo from CountryComm. Bracelet was installed and in the brown box on the watch. The strap came in an envelope.

[SearChart]

Seiko SKX or monster, and Hamilton Khaki collection.

[AGENT4734]

Hamilton automatic chronograph watches retail new for $1500-$2000... I have purchased 3 this year on eBay for around $600 each.... Awesome watches!

[JAB]

This Luminox was one of my favorites. Sapphire non-glare crystal, tritium tubes - which were super bright. Bought for under $300, and sold it on eBay for a bit more.

[TheBluePrince]

Vintage Grand Seiko or newer Grand Seiko Super Quartz.

R.e. MARATHON, I bought one of these as a travelling watch (the pilot one with 24 hour bezel) that would last a good while and not go wrong, being tough and built to military spec etc. HOWEVER, first one of the lume vial hour markers just fell off and then when I looked down at it one day in the middle of nowhere in Burma the whole bezel had just fallen off somewhere in the last 5 miles. YMMV but I've not been impressed by Marathon.

[jolimont]

Steinhart for sure
Always in demand with low production
Check ebay prices!

[Andad]

Grovana diver, red bezel, ETA.

Ball Fireman II, ETA, tritium tubes.

Or buy a Swatch 51 and save for what you want.

[Gaijin]

Originally Posted by malarky_hk

At that price range, my view is to not get anything at all and just save your money to put towards your goal of the Rolex.

Agreed. If retaining your value is part of the equation .

[bncapass1]

I had seen pics and reviews of the Longines Hydroconquest L3.642.4.96.6 41mm blue dial and couldn't resist for the price. It's a nice every day watch for when you get tired of banging your more expensive watches against walls . It's got a tank like build quality, elabore grade ETA, true 300m rating and divers extension. The Longines name also has slightly more recognition in this price range if that matters. This watch easily feels like it could go for double the price. I Payed $895 out the door for new from an AD. I see 2-3 year old ones with no box selling for $750-800 so buying new is a no brainer and you won't loose your shirt on resale.