I'm saving for my first luxury watch (I want to buy new, not vintage).
I'm considering an Aqua Terra 150 38, black dial with leather strap.
For about $1600 less, I also like the Grand Seiko SBGR253.
I think I've ruled out an Oyster Perpetual 36 (same price as AT), because no date function.
What do you all think? I'd appreciate any input or advice! Thanks.

 

Hi! I'm in the same position like you... going for a watch in a near futury. I do not have any luxury pieces either, but I want one since I saw the first James Bond movie as a kid.
I made a lots of investigation on the net, checked out the models at stores, watched many-many videos and based on that the AT seems to be a "scratch magnet" for me. My thinking is that if I would spend a hell of a lot of money for a watch, I want it to be robust and usable (so more on the SMP300m diver or PO line)... I want to enjoy it and use it every day making me smile whenever I look at it. I know that the shiny parts would concern me and I would start "overprotecting" the watch. The same keeps me from buying the seamaster 300 as well... too many polished parts on the case & bracelet as well.
Of course if would would want a dress watch, or you build a collection or you just do not care about the scratched bezel, than the AT is more than perfect for you. I love its style too... great watch overall.

 

FWIW, I would get the Grand Seiko.

 

The Aqua Terra is a beauty. Not so much a scratch magnet because it depends on how you wear the watch. If you go around knocking against things with the watch when it's on or off your wrist, then yes, you would end up with scratches. If you don't like the PCL on the bracelet, you can have it brushed. But I think the PCL goes well with the watch.

Here's how mine looks after more than a year and I wear it often....

 

If you like the Speedmaster, what about a reduced? 3510.50

 

Thanks, Peter! Yikes, I had not thought of the scratch-magnet factor. It’s definitely something to consider. How soon will you be buying your watch? Have you pretty much settled on one particular watch yet?

 

Thanks for the advice. Your watch looks awesome!

 

My vote goes to AT.

 

Thanks! I don’t think I’m a chronometer guy, though I do appreciate the great, iconic status of the Speedmaster. And thanks for recommending a 38mm watch for me—if I ever tried it on, I bet it would fit so well that I’d fall in love with it!

 

Lol! What a great photo! Thanks!

 

Thanks! Just between you and me, the Grand Seiko is more sane for my budget. Some people think that Grand Seiko designs are boring, but I like their old-school looks—they remind me of men’s watches from my childhood in the 60s and 70s. What makes you vote for the Grand Seiko over the AT?

 

While I like GS... that one seems lacking in case details... it seems to be punching under its cost. Which to me is rare in the GS line. If the lugs had more detail and where not as fat I’d dig it.

 

Hi Foo! Yes, it's definitely entry-level, and one of the plainer GSs. It does of course have Zaratsu polishing on the lugs. I don't know, I kind of like that it's unassuming. But your points are well taken, especially that more expensive GSs are actually more bang for the buck. Thanks!

 

For the record, your choice...

Its 42mm big brother looks more balanced.. but its a big watch for that style and I cannot recommend it either. https://www.grand-seiko.com/us-en/collections/SBGR309G/

 

You have a fine eye for the nuances of design! I could never wear a 42mm watch, though--that's why I'm looking at OP 36, the 37 GS, and the 38 AT.

 

Hi Sir! I’ll most probably buy the new 2018 Seamaster 300 diver. I’m just waiting for it to finally hit the shelves (they say September-November time frame is realistic). The smaller 39.5mm PO would be interesting for me as well, but it’s quite rare.

 

What a great watch! And a master chronometer under 5,000 USD to boot! You'll have to share pics when you get it.

 

Thanks for your considered perspective! What a cool collection of watches you have! It’s good to hear about the accuracy of the AT. The GS I’m considering is not as high-end as the Snowflake you own or the Hi-beat one that you mention.

 

What about a Rolex Datejust 1601 36mm?

Have you considered such option?

 

I have the original AT with a blue dial (2503.80). It was my first luxury watch purchase also. I love it.