Daily Drivers: Great Watches for Under 5,000 Euros
Sinn 103 Chronograph
While I’ve chosen this watch for the sub-5,000 category, it would also be an appropriate choice for the “Iconic Timepiece.” The Sinn 103 is truly legendary and is on the wish lists of many Sinn collectors. Although this model has seen numerous editions and subtle changes since its release, it has always kept its original charm. Every version feels contemporary, whether you’re sporting it on a steel bracelet or a leather strap. For many, the Sinn 103 represents the perfect sports watch: It has a comfortable 41-mm case, perfect readability, and the trusty ETA caliber 7750. Its external rotating bezel keeps it from feeling too large, making it a great choice for people with smaller wrists. The practical day-date function further underscores the versatility of the Sinn 103.
Enthusiast’s Corner: Rare or Exceptional Timepieces
Tudor Submariner 9411/0 Snowflake
We began making a clear distinction between dress and sports watches in the 1970s. Up until the late 60s, all luxury watches were elegant and delicate, even the sports models. However, it was at that time that sports watches started getting bigger, bulkier, and more colorful – much like the era itself. One of the best examples of this is the Omega Seamaster Bullhead chronograph from 1969. This timepiece is massive and has a funky case design. In case you’re not familiar with the term, a bullhead watch is a chronograph with its push-pieces on the top of the case at 11 and 1 o’clock, thus resembling the horns on a bull. The Omega Seamaster Bullhead also has two crowns: one for operating the inner bezel and one for setting the time and winding the mechanical movement. It’s a cool vintage timepiece that’s large and is fun to wear.
Iconic Timepieces: Great Value for Your Money
Tudor Submariner 9411/0 Snowflake
Experienced watch collectors used to advise newcomers to go for Tudor if a Rolex wasn’t in their budget. Those days are over now. The Tudor Snowflake Submariner ref. 9411/0 is not a cheaper, less fun alternative to the Rolex Sub. It never was. There’s a good reason why these watches demand such high prices on the vintage market: Their quality is superb, their design is fantastic, and they’re amazingly comfortable to wear. The version with a blue bezel and blue dial is cool, and the more traditional black dial and bezel model is anything but disappointing. Since the Black Bay debuted a few years ago, Tudor has been on the rise, and they have no intentions of slowing down. If you have the chance and the money, I suggest you look for a Tudor Snowflake Sub. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
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Sinn at Baselworld: Two Special Editions of the Sinn Financial District Watch
