Have been lurking for a while but posting for the first time as my SMLE arrived a few days ago.
I'm not luxury watch addict, or a vintage watch nerd, but I've gone through countless watches in my life, mostly cheap big box store pieces that got the job done...LumiNox, Swiss Army, nothing more than a few hundred $.
But I wanted a watch that would stand the test of time (mechanically and style wise) and compliment a personality that appreciates a sense of class without being gaudy or showy.
I went with the versatility of the SM as I feel it can be dressed up or down quite easily, and it's much more subtle features compared to say a Rolex sub. The RMLE was a close second, and the speedy while classic was just unnecessary (not like i'll be diving any time soon but likely sooner than racing or flying to the moon). For me a 2 watch collection is something clean, simple and vintage-appearing like the SMLE, and a subdued yet still classy military-style watch [ideally a PP 5320G (
https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/patek-philippe-5320g-perpetual-calendar-introducing ) or RGM Corps of Engineers watch (
http://www.rgmwatches.com/watches#/151coe/ )...my Shinola Filson Mackinaw will have to do for now]. {I love the original Smiths Deluxe style that Hillary wore to Everest}
The 39mm feels absolutely perfect on the wrist, nothing like the bulk of many >43mm divers, and while it's a tad thicker than a Rolex sub, it wears small. The band is not too large, IMO, though I acknowledge the discussion points to the contrary in prior posts. Haven't yet tried the leather or NATO bands, will probably wait until an outdoor excursion for that.
Extremely happy with the purchase (ordered back in May, surprised it actually arrived so soon...though it would be well into November before arriving) and look forward to putting it on every day.
Cheers!
