I currently have a watch under €2,000 on order, but would it be my choice for the best watch at this price point? No. I ordered it because I like it as my watch. I ordered it because I like it as an excellent addition to my watch collection. But what if I don’t have any good watches yet and I have 2000 euros in my pocket to spend on a watch? Any watch will do! It changes the whole game.
I can pick a new, used, or even a vintage watch. My picks would have been different from today’s picks a few years ago. Not too long ago, you could own a Seiko Seamaster 300 SBDX001 for under €2,000. It was an amazing-looking watch with a great price point. But those days are gone, and unless you’re lucky, you’re unlikely to find a Marinemaster 300 at such a great price.
Much longer ago, you could easily find the Omega Seamaster 300M 2531.80 for under €2,000. I bought it in late 2017 or early 2018 for about €1,800 with a box and papers. I’ve had some before, and I always sell to finance other things, but this time, I decided to keep it. And ten years ago, it hadn’t happened that I bought a used Omega Speedmaster Professional model for less than €2,000.
So, what good handsome watch can you get for €2,000 today in 2022? The watch I recently ordered (and will pick up after the holidays) is the Tissot PRX Chronograph. We reviewed it a couple of times in the office, and I think Tissot did a great job with it and the PRX in general. It reminds me of my Rolex OysterQuartz Datejust, but it has its good vibe. The timepiece is more massive than the three-handed PRX. It’s a little thick, but it looks and wears great.
However, if I didn’t have a watch today and wanted an excellent piece for myself to enjoy for many years to come, I would choose something different. I guess I’m pretty much alone in my choices. I am sure this applies to my Fratello colleagues and you, my dear Fratello readers. I chose this replica Breitling Chronomat in steel with some gold elements. Its number is 81950A, and you can find several variations of this watch.
It also comes from when a 39 mm case was not considered too small or too big. I would say that 39mm should work for most men and women. Even if you have a large wrist, 39mm is usually fine. The idea that it might be too small is mainly in the ears.
You will also notice that this watch has some gold on the case back, and the centre engraving has been filled in with gold. My favourite part of this watch is the famous Rolex strap, but it isn’t easy to find one for less than €2,000. The version I found came with a leather strap and a signed Breitling buckle.
Another important aspect for me is the serviceability of the watch. It makes me wonder about many of the micro brands out there and whether they will be able to service your watch correctly in the future. With this Breitling, that shouldn’t be an issue. It is one of the benefits of buying from a major brand. If you don’t want to spend a large part of the purchase price of this pre-owned replica Breitling on repairs, you can also ask for quotes from independent watchmakers. Since it has a Valjoux 7750 movement, it shouldn’t be too expensive.