There is no shortage of ways to part with your cool grand in exchange for a nice watch. But while there are a handful of great options out there on the new market, if you go to the vintage market you can get an incredible amount of watch for the money. Many time-only watches from some big names in watchmaking abound, and if you only need one watch, they’re versatile enough to work for any outfit and any occasion. These three prove it.
Omega Seamaster 600
What we like: I’ve mentioned before that vintage Omegas are some of the best values in wathces, and the Seamaster 600 is just further proof. You get a reliable, servicable handwinding movement, a dressy deep black dial and a sleek case for under $900.
From the seller: Manual wind with black dial in fine running condition. Recently serviced. Screw back case has only minor wear scratching.
Zenith Sporto
What we like: Though vintage versions of the Zenith’s El Primero fetch a pretty penny today, its time-only models are often overlooked. The Sporto from the mid-century was meant to bridge the gap between a dress watch and a sports watch, so it will work as your only watch if you really wanted it to. Better yet, this model came with a big-for-its-time 37mm case, so it’ll appeal more to you, the modern watch dork.
From the seller: The manual winding and Zenith movement was just cleaned and accurate and even retains the original plastic dust cover. The original “Explorer” style dial with rose toned hands and raised Arabic markers looks very fine with its natural patina.
Favre Leuba Harpoon
What we like: Okay, so it’s a bit over budget, but it’s worth it. Favre Leuba made some great timepieces before it fell to the Quartz Crisis (as of 2016, the brand name is back); just look at that clean, frosted dial. The case is equally attractive at just 11mm thin with its sculpted lugs.
From the seller: Case is in great condition, no significant nicks or scratches. Dial has no blemishes.
