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Fine Watches

doubleddoubledMember
I know some on these boards are watch afficianados. My brother is considering a Tiffany's watch that is Swiss-made (some kind of Swiss certification for this particular watch) self-winding, and stainless steel for $3K. His questions are: 1) quality - what is the track record on quality for Tiffany watches, 2) recommend similar watchmakers in the same price range but may be better QPR, and 3) what other considerations should my brother factor in buying the watch?

Thanks in advance for your feedback!
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S snipesMember
quote:
Originally posted by g-man:
anything with the word phillipe patek in it Big Grin

Or Patek Philippe. Seriously though, I'm always wary of jewelry companies that decide to add a branded watch to their portfolio.
What style of watch is he looking for? One of the 1 lb. hunks of metal that are all the rage or a more slim and elegant style?
Personally, I'm an Omega man. It makes me feel like James Bond Smile
G g-manMember
I never really heard of tiffany's as a watch name btw, probably end up paying more for the overpriced rocks. Cartier would be in the same range and probably a better watch maker too.

I've seen a Jaeger-Le Coultre for 3k in hong kong but i believe it might have been uhh certified preowned.

The patek's start at like 15k so it was a joke (but it'll be my retirement watch some day)

I personally have an omega deville and a seamaster. Both of them steel. Mass produced, but they look nice and have a great feel =)

And of course, Rolex has a great marketing brand and everyone has heard of a Rolie
K ksc02Member
The most popular or well known choices frequently are not what the true aficionado would select. Watches, like anything, are quite a personal thing. Audemars Piguet (owned and loved), Blancpain, Chopard, Franck Mueller, IWC, Jaeger-Le Coultre, Patek Phillipe are all high quality names. Pieces in your brother's price range should include Breitling, Cartier, Ebel, Omega and Rolex.

I've owned a Tag-Heuer for years and still love it. Purchased about 14 years ago, the one time I've had an issue with it, T-H repaired and returned for a very minimal fee. I would not hesitate to buy another.
T tanglenetMember
Snipes is correct, buy the manufacturer not the same watch rebranded with the Tiffany logo. And I also agree with g-man. If I was going to buy a new watch and spend a couple of grand, it would be on a Patek. I've dithered over the years on whether or not to buy one and finally decided not to. Years ago I started to collect vintage watches. There are pluses and minuses going the vintage watch route. Just be sure that he whatever he buys, he does it from a legitimate distributor and not through the gray market. I believe Tiffany sells Patek, although perhaps not at all locations.
T theeconomistMember
Tiffany's is a jeweler, not a watchmaker. Same goes for Cartier. If he's looking for a slim, elegant watch try Jaquet Droz - it will definitely be a unique standout masterpiece and not something recognizable by the proletariat. If you're looking for something a little different but also not easily recognizable, go for an Ulysse Nardin. Take a look at IWC watches as well - perfect balance on all fronts; would be my pick in the price range. If you get a Breitling, Rolex, blah blah blah, well, that's about it - blah blah blah.
B bigfoot003Member
I have an interest in watches that nearly matches my wine habit (read: problem). I own a number of manufacturers and can agree with the general advice you are receiving:
    Go with a watch manufacturer, not a "label"
    Tag is an excellent value - I own 3 - no issues with any of them
    Rolex is not really a great timepiece (if that's important to you) -- more of a status symbol. Most are also clunky
    Blancpain (big fan - only own 1, but love it) is great - you'll have a very difficult time at your price point
    Ulysses Nardin = good suggestion! Not sure of pricing...
    Armand Nicollet is nice - buy from a good dealer as a friend had dealer-service issues
    Chopard, Corum (unique, not for everyone), Concord, IWC (low price-point for IWC),and Ebel are all fine
D doktapMember
My twin brother (w & a)and I have been smitten with the wine and watch bug. I agree with all the comments above.

I wear a Rolex that belonged to my father as my daily timepiece. I have a Tag for travelling and holidays, and a Audemars Piguet Star Wheel
for special occassions. Other than the Tag, the others are not in your brothers price range unless you buy from a reputable jeweller second hand.

I find watches like art. It's hard to buy for someone else. It's a very personal purchase and I think you have to try them on before making any commitment.

I'm interested to know what he settles on. I'm sure it will mean something special in any event.
W wine+artMember
quote:
Originally posted by DoktaP:
My twin brother (w & a)and I have been smitten with the wine and watch bug. I agree with all the comments above.

I wear a Rolex that belonged to my father as my daily timepiece. I have a Tag for travelling and holidays, and a Audemars Piguet Star Wheel
for special occassions. Other than the Tag, the others are not in your brothers price range unless you buy from a reputable jeweller second hand.

I find watches like art. It's hard to buy for someone else. It's a very personal purchase and I think you have to try them on before making any commitment.

I'm interested to know what he settles on. I'm sure it will mean something special in any event.


As your twin, it seems to me it is now MY time to have Dad's watch for the next 20+ years.

I will forward Moms Casio to you in exchange.
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