Of course it's how you ultimately feel. But here's my opinion.

Based on what you wrote, I suggest the Omega Planet Ocean. Your one concern is the “small” size but, unless you have a very flat, wrist 39mm is a good proportional size for 18cm. And you mention slender forearms, so your range should be 36mm to 45mm with a technical sweet spot of 39mm, 40mm or 41mm.

I’ll also second the Longines Heritage line.

Finally you seem drawn to the BB58. Similar to yourself, the adjustability of the metal clasp bothered me so I retrofitted it with a Rolex EasyLink. I like the rivets, but If you don’t, then buy an aftermarket Oyster bracelet made specifically by the BB58.

 

the last version of the SMPc is also very nice, and you can probably find one for a lot less than your budget. I have one of those, too, but FWIW, I wear the 300 MC more regularly. For me, it’s a better for daily wear than the SMPc. That one is a little too flashy. I only wear it when I’m dressing up, which isn’t very much these days!

 

Look at Seikos. I'm eyeing an SLA037 myself, but they have so many beautiful and tough watches.

 

You need a diver. The SMPc will be smaller in every way. If you get my year, you could buy two for the money you have.

 

Yes I’d like to get one not too old in good condition. Maybe even one of the last models. But they are quite expensive here in Germany.

 

Nothing is a flamboyant as our tutone Daytona and I wear it quite a bit. Have had it for around 3 years and I would be hard pressed to remember anyone noticing or commenting on it. I could also count on one hand how many times anyone ever commented on any watch I wore unless it was in some sort of watch-related setting. If one encountered a watch and jewelry thief I would imagine they would snatch anything worth at least $100 so I wouldn't think switching from Rolex to Omega is going to make any difference.

 

That does not match my experience. Maybe it had to do with your country / culture / peer group but my Rolex seemed to be a hot topic for some colleagues here in Germany. No one ever commented on my Omegas, my TAG or some watches I already sold like the Tudor. But that crown seems to drive people crazy over here.

 

What about a Zenith El Primero, might need to stretch the budget a little bit over $4k tho.

 

2017 Railmaster's from omega are understated, underrated and excellent daily watches.

If you want more flash then new AQUA Terra camo green is worth a look.

otherwise go to Grand Seiko, they have excellent dials and case diameters to match, and who knows you might come across a good bargain.

 

Can I add the Aqua Terra GMT for consideration (now discontinued, I think)?

 

Thank you for the additional suggestions but I am still on my hunt. I was in the city once more but I am not wiser at all.

To be really honest, I am starting to think that selling the Batman was a mistake. I just don’t find another watch

- of decent size (about 40 mm)
- with timeless design
- from a brand with rich history
- a dash of color


An AT would be nice but I tried the white 41 again and it is just too big for an all dial watch. The 38 seems rather small and I don’t like the design as much (no color contrast). Some models I like, like the Sinn 556 RS don’t offer the quality in design and build I am looking for. In this case, the case looks just a bit boring. Furthermore, a whole lot of the current watches just don’t seem timeless to me.


Does anyone have another idea?

 

Well, you said you like the BB58, can’t go wrong with that in my opinion.

 

One of the varients of JLC Master Control may fit in your collection nicely

 

One of these might do the trick. failing that, and I know you’ve had Rolex but what about a blue OP39?

 

Sorry - I should have noted I’ve already replied to this so please disregard (although my sentiments remain the same)

 

You are right. It checks all my boxes, I even get the gold that matches my wedding band without being too shiny.


I think I will get that one and maybe a nice fitting rubber since I don’t like the bracelet.

 

- of decent size (about 40 mm)
- with timeless design
- from a brand with rich history
- a dash of color

Hmmmm

Rolex GMT II Master BLNR?

 

Yep, that is the challenge. I love the watch. It was and is perfect. But I didn’t love the stigma and the worth I carried around each day. So I need a cheaper replacement that is a bit more under the radar.

 

The maxi case (batman) is only 10 years old I would say that a 16750 or 16710 is a more timeless design with a certifiably iconic pepsi bezel. More importantly it is much less flashy and has great proportions for an 18cm wrist.
BB58 is also a throwback to an icon although, something like a 7924 or 9401, is still nicer imo albeit more expensive. Rolex is going back to (like the batgirl) to a slimmer lug profile. The PCLs and massive case is what draws so much unwanted attention.

 

If your heart isn't already set on the BB58, why not check out an Omega Globemaster ?

If you look carefully, you can find them with a leather band for around the USD 4'000 mark...