1st AP journey (pic heavy)

[Raemondo]

Decided to get my first AP and this forum was an immense help to me in terms of inspiration, drool-worthy pics, and heavy-handed enablement. A lot of research and deliberation went into my decision, and I wanted to share some pictures during my journey across 1 boutique and a few ADs.

I had a predisposition to the black Diver, thinking that with the 42mm size, dial legibility, and SS bezel it'd be a no-brainer for either formal or casual. I also have a 6.25" wrist and having tried a Panda once only to think it looked comical on my arm, I was all set with my decision.

Started with the Ti44. I tried this on a whim, not really thinking it'd fit me. Numerous people had told me I'd look silly wearing it with a blazer/suit. The timepiece looks like a high-tech machine but the rubber strap gives it casual, sporty look. The light weight of the titanium was instantly well received, and the strap felt comfy enough to handle all future desk diving it would potentially endure. In addition, I was able to try on an XS strap, which quickly reversed my opinion on wearability of the 44s.



A blue diver was in the display case and while I wasn't sure about the yellow inner rim, I gave it a shot.



Then came the moment I heavily anticipated...the black Diver. It was as good as I imagined it to be, albeit a little plain.





Not done yet, I tried on a few more.









When I saw the CE44, my heart missed a beat. My wife said this was certainly the winner. I loved it too, except I felt the dials were hard to read and the watch was too black for me personally. The rose gold markers were a beautiful touch.







At the end of the day, I walked out with the Ti44, the first one I tried, and I couldn't be happier with my decision. The grey mega tapisserie, red hands, hopefully klutz-proof ceramic bezel, and titanium lightness won me over. Happy to join the club!