In 1984, when I graduated high school, my Grandfather gave me a Heuer Diving watch as a graduation present. He was tickled that I was left handed and thought it was the coolest thing ever. He was also a HUGE influence on me as a kid growing up, essentially, without a father to guide me. My mom (my grandfathers daughter) married her high school sweetheart in a shotgun wedding and the guy she married was a punk. Was pushed through HS to get him out of their hair and was, to be brutally honest, worthless.
So my grandfather, who lived across the street from our rental when I was a child, took me under his wing and made sure I had a positive father figure to look up to. He taught me how to swing a golf club, how to shake hands like a confident man, to hold doors for woman, to stand up when they leave the table. He taught me how to navigate a formal dinner setting and taught me how to be a gentleman. Something my father would never be able to teach. He was busy riding in a motorcycle gang, dealing drugs, selling fenced goods and getting high all the time.
When I was 18 I had no idea what this watch was, nor was it explained to me, I just wore it like a Timex and abused it. After about a year or two the second hand came loose and it needed to be re-attached, I had no idea I needed to seek out a qualified repair person. I took it to a mall jewelry store to have it fixed, if the repair guy had a conscious, he would have told me what to do, instead he tried to repair the watch and did not water proof it properly, he charged me (at 20 years old) a fortune for fix it too. I jump in my cousins pool a few weeks later and the watch gets water in it.
I was pissed and frustrated and threw the watch in a sock drawer and forgot about it.
My grandfather passed away in May 2001, it hit me hard. my grandmother pad passed a few months earlier due to a raging case of Alzheimer's disease and it broke his heart. This was a man that could still fit in his WW2 uniform in his 80's. He did 100 push ups and sit ups every day. He literately died of a broken heart.
I was sad over his death, he was my hero in life the man I looked up to he was a great man. I had stumbled upon the watch he gave me in 2005 and sought to get it restored. I posted on a Porsche forum asking for advice as to where to go. They pointed me to a high end watch forum. I posted on there, told the same story I am telling here, and the bullshit started. Quite a few tried to tell me that the watch was useless but they would buy it from me for $100. I did not care what it was worth, I would keep it, fucked up, if I could not get it restored.
I found a place in NYC that "might" be able to help me but I was weary of shipping so far away. So I sat on this again.
Friday I went with MRs.5543 to a watch repair shop in Hobe Sound, Florida, this place services Jupiter Island clients, (i.e. Seline Dione, Tiger woods, inster your millionaire here) so he seemed to know his stuff.
He was repairing a watch for my wife, I mention me Heuer watch to him, he asks me to describe it further, I explain it more, he asks some questions and I answer. He goes and pulls out an envelope and shows me pictures of a Rolex that I would assume was a lost cause, it looked worse than my watch. Then he pulls out the restored watch, it looked new!!
As I am typing this, I am almost in tears (could be the Whiskey) I finally found a person I can trust to fix my watch. A client was in there while I was where, he was waiting while the repair guy fixed Mrs5543's watch, he told me, this cat is honest to a fault he charges to little for what he does.
Score!!
So next week I am dropping my Heuer watch off for what will be an emotional and exciting restoration beyond my wildest dreams. My wife has been all smiles all weekend because I am giddy with excitement to finally have this watch repaired back to its original glory.
BTW - The repair guy was brutally honest with me, he told me this is not going to be cheap, parts are hard to come by and he may need to make some. He also was honest to tell me this watch was worth from $8-12K when restored. depending on the amount of non original parts. No wonder assholes were tying to steal it from me for $100. They knew, they knew.
Look for updates as I get them as this restoration and highly emotional journey ensures...
The watch as it sits today:
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y219/Jims5543/Mobile%20Uploads/20160910_085626_001_zpsmrpzxg5k.jpg)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y219/Jims5543/Mobile%20Uploads/20160910_085522_001_zpsi7xmww2n.jpg)
Just thought of this. This was the Porsche board that was trying to help me. This thread is about my grandfather, another member there and I were trying figure out if his father and my grandfather were in the same places at the same time. Turns out no. what is in this link is the story of my grandfather, heavy on his service in WW2.
He was my hero, my father conversely found religion in order to avoid Vietnam. So he could go on and deal drugs....
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/off-topic-discussions/376154-george-adams.html
Very cool looks like an 1163 or maybe an 1163viceroy? Cool, watch with a cool history in racing and your family it's nice you found someone to restore it for you.
(Edit on computer instead of phone now) Just noticed the red accents on the hands it is indeed the Viceroy model.
Great story about your Grandfather and the watch. I have seen Seikos far worse than that restored. It is going to be great when finished. Wear it.
Hope it gets fixed up to it's former glory.
The best part for me is that you managed to keep it all these years, so that now when you're older, smarter and have the money you can get it fixed right and keep it - and maybe hand it down to your boy someday.
When I was about 14 my grandfather (my mom's father) gave me his Tissot that he'd had since he was a boy in Switzerland, by the time I was 16 it was gone....who knows where. It wasn't anything unique or expensive, but I sure wish I had it today.
As an adult I managed to lose my father's Seiko that was the only thing I took from his possessions when he died.
Great story, great watch! I love watches. You're doing the right thing in having it restored/repaired; respecting your grandfather and the watch which symbolizes so much.
Although it might sound odd, but if it were 'mine' I'd want to leave a slight imperfection or a hint of the patina.
I may have time this afternoon to get to the shop and drop it off, as you can imagine I want to finally get this started.
Thanks everyone for the well wishes and John, yes I may have no choice on the patina thing, which I will be fine with because it will never be sold.
Quote from: jeff10049 on September 10, 2016, 11:28:13 PM
Very cool looks like an 1163 or maybe an 1163viceroy? Cool, watch with a cool history in racing and your family it's nice you found someone to restore it for you.
(Edit on computer instead of phone now) Just noticed the red accents on the hands it is indeed the Viceroy model.
Did some google searching based on your info (thank you so much!!) and found quite a few examples of varying condition from 3K to 5K all the way up to 20K. Mine will never be worth that much that is for a pristine example with all documentation which my mom did manage to toss before we moved. I did have everything before the move, case extra band and paperwork.
The only reason the watch is still with me is because I packed it in my clothing when we moved.
Jim, Here is a neat article if you're interested I like mechanical timepieces I don't actually own many but enjoy reading the history. I have some other Heuer stuff stashed away on a hard drive I'll look for it.
https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/ode-to-smoke
Rally/race History and how what your watch was named after. Some of this site is pretty technical but if you want to know exact specs they have it.
http://www.onthedash.com/Guide/_DashMounted/Rallye_Master/
Pic of Heuer Autavia rally timer on classic mini dash. And another old Heuer photo just for fun.
Jeff, that article about the cigarette promotion was really good.
I alluded to something in my first post and never finished my point. If you look at the watches the crown is on the left side of the watch when most watches have them on the right side. As a lefty I wear my watch on my right wrist. If I needed to adjust the time I would do it on my wrist.
With any other watch I had to take it off. This was a big reason my grandfather bought this watch, he thought it was awesome that the crown was on on the left side.
Thanks, I skimmed the article and it was really cool. Gonna dig into the other one later, gotta get to work!!
"I wear my watch on my right wrist."
Steve McQueen did too. 77.gif
Great story and a cool watch. I am glad you were able to grow up with your grandfather as a father figure in your life so many kids don't have them in their lives nowadays. Keep us posted.
Bad news today, met with the watch guy he took one look and said the watch was too far gone to fix, mostly due to missing parts he said it would be impossible to track down so many parts.
If you look at the pics below you can see what he is say, I am racking my brain trying to remember if I started to take it apart. Good possibility, the 20 year old version of me was pretty bull headed and thought he could do anything if he tried. I was especially not afraid to take things apart. Growing up all my toys were disassembled inspected as to how they worked then put back together.
In this case I was clearly over my head.
My determination will not wane though, I reached out to this cat in Belgium that sells this very watch. Trying to get a working example in my hands then maybe sacrificing it to somehow to marry it with parts of my watch to give it life again.
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y219/Jims5543/Mobile%20Uploads/20160910_085522_001_zpsi7xmww2n.jpg)
(https://s10.postimg.org/wqu6hcqnd/DSC_1111.jpg)
Most of those parts should be available that's a Buren 1281 or 1282 movement with a Dubious Depraz chronograph added on looks like the main plate is mostly intact missing the auto winder and the chronograph seems to be totally gone! But they can be found don't give up.
start here call if you don't see it or it says unavailable they have lots of parts. They do sell the chrono parts/plate as well
http://www.scotchwatch.com/Heuerparts.html
more info
http://onthedash.com/docs/ChronomaticMovements.html
I feel like trying to track down and buy all the parts, which I am not sure what parts are missing will be very costly. Especially when you consider I would then have to pay the wath guy to put it all together.
I struck a deal with a cat in Belgium who has 4 on hand 2 are in shops being gone over one is on his wrist that he wears the 4th is on his way to him and needs refurbishing.
He sold me the one off his wrist. I feel like in the grand scheme of things this will be more affordable. Next step will to see if we can transfer the movement to my case. So at least that much is original.
The watch I purchased right off his wrist. LOL
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y219/Jims5543/Jims5543037/autavia_zpst8bihixo.jpg)
did you transfer the movement to your watch? or use parts to repair yours? I'd be tempted to use your case and cleaned up face with some patina as someone else suggested with the new movement. Then sell off all the leftover parts.
Jeff
Quote from: jeff10049 on November 20, 2016, 01:29:24 PM
did you transfer the movement to your watch? or use parts to repair yours? I'd be tempted to use your case and cleaned up face with some patina as someone else suggested with the new movement. Then sell off all the leftover parts.
Jeff
Yeah, I saw something shiny and got distracted.
I was helping a friend frind a Heuer Watch, he asked me knowing I was somewhat into them. I have a new one, that busted Viceroy and now that nicer Viceroy and I have been reading a lot of them.
He wanted a new F1 Senna model. I tried to talk him into a vintage one but no dice. Then I stumbled upon this 1995 Omega Speedmaster Schumacher edition for sale on a site I was pointing him towards for a vintage Heuer. Then I started obsessing over it... and thinking about it and looking at it and visiting the web page over and over looking at it some more. Then hoping someone would buy it so I would not have to.
I ended up buying it. ;D
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y219/Jims5543/EV%20Truck/20161105_141411_zpsouc0nif8.jpg)
It comes in a super cool case that is a F1 wheel that slides open to store the watch inside. It has all the paperwork too. Seems it started its ownership in the Orient. I need help.
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y219/Jims5543/EV%20Truck/20161105_141352_zpsrv2jhite.jpg)
Back to the old Viceroy, I have to wait until next summer to take it to this guy, he is in season now with all the rich snowbirds back in town and busy. In the meantime the guy that sold me the nicer Viceroy is on the lookout (as am I ) for 1163 guts. I would like to restore this one back as best as possibly keeping the patina as well. I have plans, they are just on hold until the spring. In the meantime I am wearing the one I purchased from Belgium. It is so cool to look down and see this familiar watch on my wrist.
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y219/Jims5543/hurricane%20mathew/20161006_120247_zpsbdjyuakm.jpg)
Way cool restoring it keeping as many original parts as possible would be my choice as well I thought you had given up on a restore glad to hear it's still a chance. I posted a parts source in this thread worth calling if you haven't.
Also Remember to include that it's a Buren 1281 or 1282 (I think 81 and 82 are interchangeable but don't hold me to it) movement. With a Dubious Depraz add on chronograph in your qwest for parts I may know of a complete chrono locally but he's gone to palm desert until spring I will try and connect with him in april.
Also love the Omega.
Jeff
(edit) to add that the dubois depraz module number is 8510
Nice Omega! When I bought my watch, Hyacinth couldn't really understand 'why'. One of her male colleagues explained that watches are pretty much the only jewelry guys can wear. No guilty feelings, can't have too many.
I'm going to sign up for this thread...you guys must have too much time on your hands to know all this stuff about watches! (yes, I really did just say that...I'm so lame, I have no life ::) ).
Cool story, Jim, thanks for posting it.
Pat
Some more shit to read if you want.
Also in your qwest for parts Hamilton and Elgin also used the caliber 11 movement. elgin 366 I think. never know what might turn up on the bay.
http://www.onthedash.com/docs/Project99.html
Quote from: jeff10049 on December 04, 2016, 04:49:47 PM
Some more shit to read if you want.
Also in your qwest for parts Hamilton and Elgin also used the caliber 11 movement. elgin 366 I think. never know what might turn up on the bay.
http://www.onthedash.com/docs/Project99.html
Thank you again sir, I will definitely read that this evening.
Just got the Rolex back from the tune up, this watch guy is gold. He really has a passion for this business and you can tell. Next time I am in there I need to snap some pics. He turned a 1800's pocket watch into a wrist watch.... because he can.
He put it under a microscope and let Gian watch all the movement going on, which was really cool.
He said I could ask $2K for the Rolex, not sure if I am going to sell, he told me to hang on to it and give to one of my kids. Just hate for either of my boys to have to dole out $700 every 5-10 years for a tune up.
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y219/Jims5543/2005%20JCW/20161214_160605_zpshvdkiu96.jpg)
It happened again... dammit....
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y219/Jims5543/2005%20JCW/2017-02-01_21.00.20_zpsvqbowkd3.jpg)
If anyone wants a watch here is a 15% discount code:
https://www.watches.com/watches/?redeem=5892950f54ee0900181e123d
47KP-0LRJ-75FT
EXPIRES: SUN MAR 19 2017 02:10:49 GMT+0000 (UTC)
Just enter this coupon code at checkout. Only one coupon can be applied per order.
I only got 10% off so this is a good deal Wish I had it for my purchase.
You act like it's a bad thing. That is a cool looking watch.
Watches are the only jewelry most men wear so you need several to chose from.
I did not need another watch, stupid me, I follow a couple of cool watch websites on Instagram, this one spoke to me.
I agree men do not wear jewelry or buy purses or fancy shoes or really outfits. Watches, guns, cars and booze that is what we buy.
This one's been whispering in my ear a bit......$30
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1656/8715/products/v-Type1__1036197889_800x.jpg?v=1485998441)
Quote from: MiniDave on February 02, 2017, 03:09:01 PM
This one's been whispering in my ear a bit......$30
Whoa.
I really shouldn't ask you any details about that. Nope. I shouldn't.
Quote from: MiniDave on February 02, 2017, 03:09:01 PM
This one's been whispering in my ear a bit......$30
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1656/8715/products/v-Type1__1036197889_800x.jpg?v=1485998441)
It does have quite a unique face. Since Bruce won't ask, I will. What make/model is that watch and where did you find it?
https://gulfcoastshop.com/products/limited-edition-led-racing-wrist-watch (https://gulfcoastshop.com/products/limited-edition-led-racing-wrist-watch)
Vrooom vrooom! Sure is unique!
That speedo watch showed up in my Instagram feed last week. Looks interesting.
I received my CT Scuderia last week and love it more in person. Already had a few compliments on it out and about. The oversize leather Nato band is nice but a tad too long for my wrist. I ordered a cheap regular leather band off Amazon but this watch needs to be on a Nato band. I ordered a CT Scuderia cloth band that was only $40 and I will not feel bad if I have to trim it down to fit me better. I could not bear to tear up the leather one, it was too nice, I put it in the box the watch came in for prosperity if I ever want to sell it off one day.
Being of Italian decent and loving motor sports, I am loving this watch, it might be my favorite to wear right now, which means the vintage Heuer is getting a break for a while.
(https://cdn3.bigcommerce.com/s-z74psfow/products/4675/images/26851/CTScuderia-strap-GSCS1N384BGWR__25297.1467160614.480.715.jpg)
As an alternative to Amazon, I've ordered several Nato straps from this company - http://natostrapco.com/ (http://natostrapco.com/).
The quality is tops, with frequent special deals and quick turn-a-round.
Quote from: John Gervais on February 15, 2017, 03:59:28 PM
As an alternative to Amazon, I've ordered several Nato straps from this company - http://natostrapco.com/ (http://natostrapco.com/).
The quality is tops, with frequent special deals and quick turn-a-round.
Bookmarked!! Thank you! That is an awesome site.
I got the new band in this week, much more comfortable than the thick leather band. I am in the office tomorrow, looking forward to wearing it all day.
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y219/Jims5543/2005%20JCW/20170220_185654_zpsm81tguiu.jpg)
I used to wear leather straps, but didn't know any better. Every summer, they'd start to smell bad and I'd replace them. Now, with a few nylon Nato straps at my disposal, it's a simple matter of washing one while wearing another. I've been eyeballing the Gulf Racing straps for a while now...
My preference is the thicker Nato XII straps - you'll find the FAQ page helpful.
Here's a picture of possibly the best bargain watch I've ever owned; the Steinhart Ocean One Vintage Red (https://www.steinhartwatches.de/en/diver-watch/ocean-one-vintage-red.html) on a Nato Strap Co. strap.
I am loving this cloth band. being as how you can change out a Nato band so fast I did order 2 from the website you linked. both leather for when I want to wear out in the evening or weekends.
Going to revisit them for another watch I have. BTW - that Steinhart is a nice watch. Here is a cool wind up that is reasonable too if you are interested. It is called a Maratac watch.
Prices spiked upwards slightly they used to be $300 watches.
I was able to grab a couple of red accented watches, a good customer ordered 50 of them, minimum run was 100 so they sold off the other 50. So I have a 1 in 100 watch, I gifted the other one.
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y219/Jims5543/2005%20JCW/20170224_173652_zps1tuhna86.jpg)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y219/Jims5543/2005%20JCW/20170224_173658_zpsfdwz1jpt.jpg)
I want to grab a couple of nice Nato bands for this one too. I tend to wear this one a lot outside so some nice cloth bands would be nice.
John you inspired me to put my Cloth Nato band back on, I am wearing the Maartac to work Monday.
Supposed to be going out this evening, looking like that is a bust, Mrs5543 totally knackered from a hectic week, and I am on board with being lazy this evening. I was going to wear the TS Scuderia but it looks like ham sandwich and beers for dinner at home now.
Time to take a shower and crash. I have a ton of drafting to work on, plus I am taking the 13 y/o out to work with me tomorrow, I have to get a head start on next week. So I can take off.
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y219/Jims5543/2005%20JCW/20170224_180021_zpsi1ftvsri.jpg)
The Maratac looks pretty 'clean' in its design styling - very nice indeed! 77.gif
Limited edition is always cool...
Crap I thought I linked the website.
Here is where you can get them although through a google search I saw Amazon may carry them too going to investigate.
This website is bad news it is very manly and has a lot off cool stuff on it.
https://countycomm.com/collections/mechanical-watches
Dangit!! Started looking around on there, had not been on there in ages. I see trouble...
Found a simpler version of my watch for much cheaper.
https://countycomm.com/collections/whats-new/products/red-crown-mid-swiss-quartz-pilot-watch-central-second-by-maratac
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1437/9632/products/IMG_2420_grande.jpg)
Nice watches. I'm fond of the NATO strap in the black and gray - 007 style. I've got one of those too.
Damn push notifications.
https://www.watches.com/vestal-can3n04?utm_medium=googleshopping&utm_source=bc&gclid=CO_0vsjHttICFUxehgod5R4E4A
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81lJZTndikL._UY445_.jpg)
Quote from: BruceK on February 25, 2017, 12:57:07 PM
Nice watches. I'm fond of the NATO strap in the black and gray - 007 style. I've got one of those too.
Both really nice watches that would catch my eye if I saw them out in the wild.
I like that nato band, good taste.
I received my leather nato bands for my CT Scuderia I trimmed them and tried them, I like. It will be on my wrist tomorrow when I leave for Utah.
https://www.watches.com/rec-mark-i-m1-brown-silver-watch/
Quote from: Willie_B on March 28, 2017, 10:58:32 AM
https://www.watches.com/rec-mark-i-m1-brown-silver-watch/
"...with dials made directly from salvaged chassis parts of the iconic [Mini]". Huh? I'd like to learn more about that.
Those Mini watches almost put them out of Business. Typical Mini owner says that is too much money for a watch.
http://www.restorationmini.com/forum/index.php?topic=670.0
I have a Minimalist from them and love it. Loved how it came with a title and story about the donor car.
I was so impressed when they released a Kickstarted campaign for the P51 (Classic Mustang) watch I ordered one as a gift for my Dad who is a Mustang fanatic. They struck gold with the P51 line, no longer was it, that is too much money it was TAKE MY MONEY!!
Now they are releasing another kickstarter deal for a Porsche 911 watch. I am curious to see how that does, I may buy 2 on kickstarter and sell one off for a profit after the watch releases at full price.
Jim, thanks very much for the explanation and the link to the previous thread on this subject. Very cool how they used a real Mini !!
Yea, I love those watches, been dropping hints to the misses.
Kickstarter went live for the Porsche 911 watches. This is a chance to buy one at 50% off. If you have any friends that are Porsche fanatics it would make a cool gift or let them know they might like one.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1198409074/the-901-collection-made-from-salvaged-porsche-911s?utm_source=REC+Watches+Newsletter&utm_campaign=6eb310e4b3-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_03_29&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_a150500a04-6eb310e4b3-422270829&mc_cid=6eb310e4b3&mc_eid=d137c05951
Heads up. Maratac Pilot watch on sale for 50% off. This is a movement (wind up) watch not a quartz. I daily wear mine and love it.
https://countycomm.com/collections/mechanical-watches/products/maratac-mid-original-pilot-watch?utm_source=CountyComm+Subscribers&utm_campaign=eade8395e4-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_04_04&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_2027776eb3-eade8395e4-289551381&ct=t(4_5_2017_Watch_Sale4_4_2017)&goal=0_2027776eb3-eade8395e4-289551381&mc_cid=eade8395e4&mc_eid=d96146ede1
I don't see the attraction in these.....they're just a plain wind up watch, why not buy a Timex or Seiko for $25 if you just want a plain looking watch instead of paying $200-400 for one of these?
Because it is a custom made quality watch?
Why drive a Mini when a Toyota Yaris will do for much less and require much less maintenance?
Why buy a 60K Audi when you could have gotten a used Jeep Wrangler?
Because a Times and a Seiko are boring like a Wranger and a Yaris.
The difference in your example is not in the quality or manufacture, it's in the use - an Audi drives differently than a Yaris - but a watch just does one thing, so unless you're after looks, the Timex or Seiko does exactly the same thing as these do - you can't really see or feel the quality of manufacture in a watch, you can only see it in it's performance or it's looks.
To me these are very plain looking watches - and I'm not talking about gold fittings or diamond incrustations when I talk about plain vs not plain, but more the face and bezel design.
Obviously everyone has their own style preference, but I'm having a hard time seeing the value in these.
I do like the location of the winder, I assume it won't poke you in the wrist like the ones in the middle do when you bend your wrist back hard.
I get it, you are not a watch guy.
Trying to explain this to you is like trying to explain to a non car guy why an Audi is a nicer car than a Toyota. Both have wheels both drive on the same roads at the same speed and go from point A to point B just the same. The smart person would buy the Toyota and drive it for 20 years and never piss a dime away on cars beyond the appliance use of them.
I have a nice little collection of watches. My cheap watch is this Maratac I wear it like a Timex. I used to wear my Rolex like a Timex too but learned that is too expensive to do when maintenance time comes along. It now resides in the safe and worn on rare occasions.
I will hand this collection down to my sons, sum total of the lot of them exceeds the cost of a classic Mini. My kids can decide to keep or sell them, pretty much every one of these watches will go up in value over time. They will always be worth more than I paid for them.
I am small potatoes though, go see some of the watches cats have on Bimmerforums. I remember really liking one guys watch and looking to buy one. It was a 25K watch!! A little too much for my blood. I never questioned WHY would he buy a 25K watch, I was impressed he could buy a 25K watch. My collection all put together might approach that price, I have been adding to it over 30 years. Some of the watches started their life out being pretty low in price but have become collectible. In a couple of cases I was able to grab good deals on watches I know are going to fetch a premium price in years to come.
I have added to my older/vintage Seiko collection over the last several years. It suprises me what the value of a couple of them are now. More than I would want to pay. But I bought them to wear them and I do. Only bought 2 new watches, both from small independent companies.
BTW - the watch this thread was started over was a $100 watch back in the early 70's when my grandfather bought it for me. Today that $100 is more like spending $600.
That $100 watch is worth from $3,000 to $6,000 now depending on condition.
A early 70's Timex may be worth $100-$150 today.
I think the Maratac with be worth a decent amount 30 years from now. They are not a hugely mass produced watch.
Do you see the difference now?
I understand way more than you give me credit for.....I own two Rolexs......but I never wear either of them anymore now that I'm retired except for special evenings out.
My point on this particular watch is that it's very plain looking and uninspiring - to me....that is why I don't see the value.
...
(http://dvdmedia.ign.com/dvd/image/pulpfictionce_02.jpg)
Quote from: MiniDave on April 05, 2017, 12:18:03 PM
I understand way more than you give me credit for.....I own two Rolexs......but I never wear either of them anymore now that I'm retired except for special evenings out.
My point on this particular watch is that it's very plain looking and uninspiring - to me....that is why I don't see the value.
Different strokes for different folks.
I like the simplicity of it and at $200 I think it is a good deal.
(http://www.thinkgeek.com/images/products/zoom/imnl_tesla_watch.jpg)
;D
Quote from: Jims5543 on April 05, 2017, 12:59:32 PM
Quote from: MiniDave on April 05, 2017, 12:18:03 PM
I understand way more than you give me credit for.....I own two Rolexs......but I never wear either of them anymore now that I'm retired except for special evenings out.
My point on this particular watch is that it's very plain looking and uninspiring - to me....that is why I don't see the value.
Different strokes for different folks.
I like the simplicity of it and at $200 I think it is a good deal.
Absolutely......
Quote from: Jims5543 on April 05, 2017, 11:59:05 AM
I get it, you are not a watch guy.
...
I am small potatoes though, go see some of the watches cats have on Bimmerforums. I remember really liking one guys watch and looking to buy one. It was a 25K watch!! A little too much for my blood. I never questioned WHY would he buy a 25K watch, I was impressed he could buy a 25K watch. My collection all put together might approach that price, I have been adding to it over 30 years. Some of the watches started their life out being pretty low in price but have become collectible. In a couple of cases I was able to grab good deals on watches I know are going to fetch a premium price in years to come.
You should try the pocket watch forums someday, if you really want to see some insane collections. I'm expecting delivery of 2 new ones - a pretty much brand 'new' 1946 Hamilton 992B 16s 21j, 'Boxcar' dial in a model A case, and an Elgin B.W. Raymond 571 from 1953 - 23j and adjusted for 9 positions. True, I can't afford them, but might soon add a 23j Waltham Vanguard. I just missed out on a really mint Illinois 'Bunn Special' - bummer ...
Quote from: MiniDave on April 05, 2017, 12:18:03 PM
I understand way more than you give me credit for.....I own two Rolexs......but I never wear either of them anymore now that I'm retired except for special evenings out.
My point on this particular watch is that it's very plain looking and uninspiring - to me....that is why I don't see the value.
No I missed the point of your initial post and get it now that I am sitting here relaxed having my morning coffee.
I own that watch, a couple of people said they liked that watch. I saw it went on sale and shared. I do not think it is a $400 watch, I do think it is a great $200 watch.
I initially thought you posted an exclamation about how you did not understand why anyone would buy a watch more expensive than a Timex. I was at work I read it fast, because I need to get back to work and concentrate on important shit. Shit that helps me pay for nice watches.
I was wrong your post was intended to just shit on that watch. So what I did was waste time defending my hobby when that was not the issue here at all, you just could not help yourself and wanted to shit on the watch I own.
I missed that yesterday I understand now. I am sorry you feel that way.
Quote from: John Gervais on April 05, 2017, 01:54:45 PM
You should try the pocket watch forums someday, if you really want to see some insane collections. I'm expecting delivery of 2 new ones - a pretty much brand 'new' 1946 Hamilton 992B 16s 21j, 'Boxcar' dial in a model A case, and an Elgin B.W. Raymond 571 from 1953 - 23j and adjusted for 9 positions. True, I can't afford them, but might soon add a 23j Waltham Vanguard. I just missed out on a really mint Illinois 'Bunn Special' - bummer ...
I have looked at pocket watches in the past, I have seen some really stunning examples. A good friend of mine just inherited a 1920's pocket watch from his dad and it is really nice. I think I will stay a few steps back from that slope, it looks really slippery. ;D
Oh and when you get those beauties, please share some pics of them.
This is the watch my friend inherited. It is a 1922 Illinois.
(http://i77.photobucket.com/albums/j70/laszlo2u/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_20161205_020234589_zpsruoigzqm.jpg)
I'm not in the know when it comes to watches but here's what I wear. I've had it a solid 4 years now. Initially saw wood watches in a magazine while flying around and thought wow that's cool as hell, plus when I go through security I won't need to take it off! It has turned into a pretty big conversation piece when I wear it, which is always cause I feel naked without a watch. Before wearing it I had no idea people were as into watches as they are. I'd like to have a few different styles but haven't gotten around to it yet.
I think I want one of these now.
Jim, I did not shit on your watch - what I did was express an opinion.....I didn't say it was a bad watch or that you were somehow bad for buying one. What I said clearly was that it didn't do anything for me.....that's all. I mentioned my Rollies only to show that I understand the appeal of fine things, but not everything appeals to everyone. Some people think a Rolex is an overpriced piece of junk that won't even keep time.......I don't share that opinion.
I do not understand why when someone expresses an opinion contrary to you, you take it personally and become offended, but at no time was I attacking your choice.....I simply said I did not get the appeal of that style of watch.
However, I will continue to express my opinion on various and sundry matters, so you'll have to find a way to deal with it and realize that not everyone will share your passions - and that it's OK. We can have contrary opinions and still remain friends, after all variety is what makes life interesting, isn't it?
I also don't understand why you drink so much, but I stay completely out of those discussions as my opinion doesn't count there and clearly it's none of my bidness.
Actually Jim goes dry often! I know real drinkers, Jim isn't one. Jen and I frequent micro brews and a local bar with 300+ beers because we love the craft. Of course we have our "cheers" we go to as well, but that's a social thing. Back to watches...
And again, I'm offering no opinion as to his or anyone else's drinking. Saying I don't understand something doesn't mean I disapprove.......it just means I don't get it.
But I agree....enough of this.......
Quote from: MiniDave on April 06, 2017, 08:10:19 AM
Jim, I did not shit on your watch - what I did was express an opinion.....I didn't say it was a bad watch or that you were somehow bad for buying one. What I said clearly was that it didn't do anything for me.....that's all. I mentioned my Rollies only to show that I understand the appeal of fine things, but not everything appeals to everyone. Some people think a Rolex is an overpriced piece of junk that won't even keep time.......I don't share that opinion.
I do not understand why when someone expresses an opinion contrary to you, you take it personally and become offended, but at no time was I attacking your choice.....I simply said I did not get the appeal of that style of watch.
However, I will continue to express my opinion on various and sundry matters, so you'll have to find a way to deal with it and realize that not everyone will share your passions - and that it's OK. We can have contrary opinions and still remain friends, after all variety is what makes life interesting, isn't it?
I also don't understand why you drink so much, but I stay completely out of those discussions as my opinion doesn't count there and clearly it's none of my bidness.
... and yet you cannot control yourself and need to imply I have a drinking problem by pondering something that is none of your fucking business. I do not drink as much it may appear I do, you are talking out your ass now and it is a dick move to imply otherwise.
You did not get the appeal of that watch, I get it, yet you HAD to make sure you posted and told me that. You posted a watch I would not be caught dead wearing, I put a polite response regarding it. I do not get the appeal, except, in my mind I understand different people like different things and never questioned it nor did I feel a need to tell you that.
See the difference? Probably not.
If you want to be a dick go right ahead. I though you were being rude and if you are proud of that and think that is your style then knock yourself out.
The only one being a dick n this conversation is you.
At no time have I implied anything - I state it - the watch I posted was a joke pic, just like the two above it.
I made a comment about your drinking because you post in the drunk thread about all the stuff you buy and drink.
I'm trying to ease out of this conversation but you keep amping it up - I'm done with this thread, you can post all the watches you like and I will have nothing further to say about them. Your opinions are clearly the only ones that matter.
We bow to your obvious better taste in such matters.
That Illinois looks exactly like the one that I really wanted but couldn't quite get. Really nice watch. 77.gif
Here are a couple o'pics of the pocket watches I bought from a popular online auction website - I don't expect the watches to arrive for another couple o'weeks.
I had to buy some chains as well, so yeah, I'm stopping here.
My wristwatches are here as well:
First, the daily driver Steinhart Ocean One Vintage Red.
Second, the Omega Seamaster Chronograph Chronometer.
Third, the 1953 Elgin B. W. Raymond (photo from the web).
Forth, the 1946 Hamilton (photo from the web).
Love the Elgin, my grandmother lived just up the street from the factory. It was a favorite story of hers to tell us as kids when we were visiting.
Wore the Speedmaster to work today since I am in the office today. Such a special watch I rarely wear it.
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y219/Jims5543/2005%20JCW/20170517_131324_zpsxgndmpl2.jpg)