Hi, after owning a Tag connected 45 and returning due to glitchy software i'm ready to spend on a mechanical watch. I think i'm set on a Omega Seamaster 300, at £2920 it is sensible money and wanted thoughts of a more knowledgeable group. The alternative was possibly a Tudor Black Bay. I want the watch to keep some value which has kept me away from Tag which I understand wouldn't maintain value as well. I'd appreciate any comments or advice. Thanks in advance, Paul
Difficult to say what would be the best option. Both nice watches. The best thing to do is to try them both on. I find that this usually provides the answer you are looking for.
I obviously like the look of both but concerned I'll always feel like I settled for the Tudor as a cheap Rolex whereas the Omega has great history (not that Tudor doesn't, but in Rolex's shadow) .
Well if your looking for some thing to hold it's value one thing about new cars they loose there value as soon as you drive them off the car lot and become a used car. Same with a new watch they loose value as soon as they leave the store. Ever thought vintage same as with used cars like I remember buying a 1965 Chevy impala for 500 bucks in the 1970's now what are they worth since there now considered vintage instead of used more than I want to pay now. My vintage Omega 300 I got about 4 years ago it has since went up in value some thing a new one wont do for a long while. So maybe go vintage.
I think a lot of people probably feel the same. Tudor are producing a distinctive line of watches that are nice looking in their own right. In our small world of watch nerds the feeling of it being a poor mans rolex might be amplified by our knowledge but the average man in the street has probably never heard of tudor and would judge the watch on its own merits. I also think that many watch collectors would not dismiss owning a Tudor. As said, seeing them in the flesh will really help you make up your mind, if after that, you still have doubts then you need to keep looking.
Just watched the forum video on Seamaster and I do think it's stunning and probably my choice. Think I want new over vintage although I fully understand your point river rat!
There is also the possibility for a vintage look Sm300 but made of new parts. These "WatchCo" Seamasters have everything you need today, like Super Luminova etc. Another plus, they are cheaper than a new Omega (and look cooler ) and cheaper than the real vintage SM300. Nico
As I understand you are looking for a daily wear right? If this is the case, I would go for the new built SM300. Of course a vintage one would surely develop in value, but I would not dare to use it as a daily wear... Aditionally you will not find a real vintage one for 2950 Pound I guess... I just got mine 2 weeks ago and I am totally in love with it The Lume is fantastic (almost calls for sunglasses at night ) Can't withstand to give 2 or 3 impressions: and this is also something i would not dare to do with a vintage one even the fishes seem to love it That said, go for it! Best, Alex
Are you talking the Seamaster 300 MC? When you say new do you mean new from OB/AD or a modern watch? You can pick up a used modern watch at about 30-50% off retail. I picked this one up used last year. I have only purchased one new watch and it is one I know that I will never sell. I flip about 50% of my watches (0% of my Speedmasters) so the safe bet for me is to buy used.
I have several Omegas and they are all wonderfully reliable, sturdy and look fantastic. Definitely have a a soft spot for them. Have been very tempted by the Tudor North Flag. Looks good and is certainly well built. Tudor are a wonderful brand on their own right and stand apart from their big brother. I would also suggest a long visit to the AD and spend some wrist time staring at both. Don't let residual value be the motivator as I feel watch buying is a decision best left to the heart.
I've gone with the new Seamaster 300 co-axial and impatiently waiting for the delivery. Thanks for the advice, enjoying reading the posts and seeing these watches. Can anyone advise on servicing intervals and costs?
It's arrived! Every bit as beautiful as I had hoped. Rushed into town at lunch and had it resized. Would post pics if I was more I.T literate.
I have a blue wave dial - great watch, probably the most reliable I have. Only criticism: clasp and brushed links on the bracelet are absolute scuff magnets. I wear mine on a NATO for that reason.