No doubt about it! Let's take a look at a SMPC 300M from 2014 and a new one. And, IMO, it's not only the waves. The new dial as a lot of unnecessary stuff.
don't laugh... its bullet proof and its ISO
Personally I've never been a fan of the SMPC 300M. The scalloped edges, the bracelet, the hands... just doesn't do it for me. Now that you've shown the lovely Rado, I realize I also much prefer a dial with an anchor, a captain and a cook! ... and at a fraction of the price, how could you go wrong? 😎
For $147.74 USD I was able to get this simple diver (sans anchor, captain, cook) but still a bargain!
The Captain Cook is on my list but I would need to see it in person. Oris fall into the price point. Tissot Seastar 1000 are bargains. For small brands NTH and CREPAS are amazing in the sub 1K range. Lately I have been partial to Zodiac offerings.
High value and they are slowly gaining interest among diver collectors. I don't trust the vintage market and prefer the modern sizing (39 - 42) and the movements are great. I hope they keep improving upon the movement and expand to a GMT at some point.
Having spent some years in the army now, I'll try to avoid anything bought in bulk by any military capacity 😁
