Can’t get a Seamaster Quartz; what do I do?

Davidt

The point is, if they’re £500 in the UK, they’ll be cheaper in the US (watches are generally 20% cheaper in the US) so should be within budget.

padders

They are not. Not in the 40mm size the OP asked for anyhow, those are about £100-150 more pricey. Oh and the lug width isn't 20mm either. Without meaning to be being rude David, it hits none of the specified targets.

Frankly a Pre-Bond, even a full size is not a fair replacement for a Bond quartz, let alone a SMPc. I've owned both and the Pre-Bond is a bit lacking. Actually massively lacking, they feel like a Tag F1. Full Bond all the way.

OP: Buy cheap, buy twice.

ps I am wearing an SMPc right now. I think it is actually much nicer than the current 42mm model.

pps maybe I shouldn't post after a drink since what little tact and politeness I have goes out the window. Sorry all!

Davidt

Opinions around a good alternative for a certain watch are always going to be subjective. Especially when the budget is $500, some compromises are going to have to be made.

Personally, if I wanted an SMP300 quartz but couldn’t afford, my alternative would be the pre bond SMP200. I get it’s more like 39mm etc but I’d rather compromise on that and still have a seamaster pro. EBay sold listing shows quite a few full size versions in working condition selling bellow £500.
Completely get others opinions may vary.