WatchUSeek Watch Forums banner
Cancel
Create thread New Forums

36mm-38mm, black dial, no date? Under 1k

Jump to Latest
16K views 72 replies 39 participants last post by  bigvic  
B
#1 ·
Hi! Long time lurker.

I have been into this hobby for 2 years now. Even though I have a three quartz collection (was a bit scared about the whole maintenance thing), I acquired a cheap automatic (Alpha Explorer 36mm, blue dial) and I'm in love with the idea of having and maintaining a timepiece for the rest of my life.

So here I am, looking to buy what would be my daily wear, but seems like there is no watch that fills all my checkboxes.

I would like:
  • 36 to 38mm
  • Black dial
  • No date window (I even dislike the well integrated ones...)
  • Non-numeric indices
  • Don't really wear bracelets, so if I can cut down that from the cost that would be nice
  • Under 1K€ (around 1150$)
There are some models (way above my price range) that I like:

Rolex Oyster Perpetual
Image

Tudor Black Bay 36
Image

Stowa TO2 (this one is 43mm, but I really like the dial/hands design)
Image

Any ideas or am I asking for the impossible? Thanks in advance!
 
B
#8 ·
I remember seeing an "special release" which was a direct homage of the BB36, but I don't think that there is stock anymore...
MasterOfGears said:
Maybe Farer although that would be pushing the price.

farer.com

Farer | Aqua Compressor Collection | Titanium Dive Watches

The Farer Aqua Compressor Collection. 41mm Dive watches made from grade 2 titanium. Water-resistant to 300m and powered by the La Joux-Perret G101 movement.
farer.com farer.com
Click to expand...
Not digging the compressor style, but thanks! Didn't know about the brand, they have some unique pieces.

skyblue314 said:
Check out the Lorier Falcon version 2. Black waffle no-date dial in a 36mm case, Hesalite crystal and upgraded Miyota 9 movement at 499 USD.
Click to expand...
That is a gorgeus one too. But again, same thing that happens with the Traska. Maybe I'm overthinking it too much (?), but with taxes, the price goes up quite a bit, and seems like it's not worth given the movement/microbrand "status".

That one goes to the "heavy contenders" list too. Thanks!
 
#17 ·
CW Sandhurst... slightly over 1k msrp but can be had for under 1k if you go preowned in excellent condition.

Image
 
  • Like
Reactions: watchcrank_tx
Save
Reply Quote Like Like
#18 · (Edited)
Some great, great suggestions already. I don't know whether the Traska has a Miyota 8 or 9000 movement, but it may be worth the premium if it's the latter 9000.

If you consider vintage do-able, I recommend a serviced, well-maintained Seiko Lord Matic or Lord Marvel. They're rather easy to find.

Edit: Or an Everest PRS-25 in 36mm. I think they're going to be available for order on the 17th - they'll probably sell out within minutes, mind you.
 
D
#21 ·
As you said no numerals and something for life. I would look for a used BB36 on a leather strap. I picked up my used 41 on bracelet in mint condition here for $2000 so a used 36 on leather would be close to your budget.

You wouldn't second guessing your choice. I wear mine about 24/7 and it keeps perfect time.
 
S
#22 ·
Some good suggestions here. I was going to recommend Traska and Lorier, but was beaten to the punch.

The Smiths PRS-25 Everest is also a great recommendation above, but it has numerals at the 3-6-9, which might not be to OP’s taste (plus they can be difficult to source, as already noted).

I wear mine as a daily, however, and definitely recommend it as an option if you can live with the arabics.
Image
 
S
#30 ·
Good timing! Traska will be opening up orders tomorrow morning for the next production run, but the window will only be open for 48 hours. It’s a $50 deposit, which goes toward the remainder of the price when the watch ships in January.

It might be a long wait before the next production run, so just a heads up.
 
#34 ·
The Atticus range have already been released and there is a thread in the Affordables forum. There are also lots of pictures on Instagram as well. I have a Teleios which fits really nicely on my 7.75' wrist.

I also have a Traska Commuter in white and I am considering pre ordering another one in mint green. They a great little watch and really meet my craving for an OP.

Sent from my SM-G390F using Tapatalk
 
  • Like
Reactions: Timbit and Sir-Guy
Save
Reply Quote Like Like
#36 ·
It’s green because the watch uses C3 Superluminova, which glows green in the dark. It’s somewhat unavoidable.

If you really want a watch to have and maintain for the rest of your life, then I suggest you get the Tudor or get on a list for the OP (or Explorer 1). You would almost certainly be better off waiting for the watch you want instead of spending what is potentially a lot of money (the Laco is $1200) for a compromise watch. Because ultimately you won’t be happy if you compromise.

If, like most of us here the rest of your life actually means “up to 6 months before I flip it because I will never be satisfied,” then maybe consider some of these other options.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 
#42 ·
I know it has numerals and it's Navy not pure black but what about the Farer field watch? 38.5mm and just about the top end of your price range. Swiss-made Sellita movement.

farer.com

Farer - Lomond - Swiss-Made Automatic Field Watch

British design. Swiss made. Affordable Mechanical watches. Field watch with matte navy blue dial. 30-day FREE Global Returns. 60-month Movement Guarantee.
farer.com farer.com
 
WatchUSeek Watch Forums
posts
24M
members
619K
Since
2005
A forum community dedicated to watch owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about watch collections, displays, watch winders, accessories, classifieds, and more! We welcome all manufacturers including Casio G-Shock, OMEGA, Rolex, Breitling, Rolex and Tudor, Seiko, Grand Seiko and others.
Full Forum Listing
Explore Our Forums
Public Forum Watches - Private Sellers and Sponsors Affordable watches Dive watches Casio G-Shock