http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/list.php?37Wed, 22 May 2013 03:35:51 -0400 Phorum 5.2.11 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,283015,283015#msg-283015 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,283015,283015#msg-283015Movement & Specs: Stainless steel case with satin finish, sapphire crystal, screw down case back with mineral crystal showing the robust ETA 2824-2 inside, 50m WR, optional pilot's crown, diameter 42mm or 39mm (excluding crown), thickness 9.9mm and 20mm lug width
Chosen by: Paulo
Why?: A great quality watch with Flieger aesthetics for 245 euros plus shipping (Jan 2007) from a company created by Ickler (a well known quality German case supplier for various companies and also owner of Limes).

]]> Reto TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Tue, 01 Feb 2011 11:33:32 -0500 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,283014,283014#msg-283014 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,283014,283014#msg-283014Chosen by: Chance
Why?: During their first production run, the Zodiac ZO800x Oceanaire automatic divers were well-regarded for their retro styling (quite similar to the Seiko 6105 divers of yore), Swiss Made pedigree, stout bracelets and excellent build quality. There were a few flies in the ointment, however. Prices were high with little in the way of discounting. Upon discontinuation, prices for used examples skyrocketed beyond what the watches likely were truly worth. And the watch's "Swiss Made" badge found some opposition when it was revealed that the Claro-Semag CL888 movement was essentially a Chinese Sea-Gull ST16, albeit with more refinement and better finishing. Though reports of full-on failure have been quite rare, there were reports of seconds hand jumpiness, sometimes during regular operation and sometimes after starting the watch running after setting the time. Despite these issues, the Oceanaire remained popular as evidenced by their relative rarity on sales forums, as well as how quickly they were snatched up when they did appear.

Earlier this year, it came as a surprise (at least to me) that Zodiac resumed production of the Oceanaire divers. And even more surprising was the fact that prices had come way down. Just over a month ago, Metro Watch Company, Zodiac's eBay outlet, unloaded a bunch of 'em for less than $200 each. Same great watch, great new low price.

At its present price point, both when found new and when found on sales forums, the Oceanaire is a surefire nominee for inclusion on the Top 20 list. If new examples are all like mine, any rough edges on the CL888 have been smoothed out. The seconds hand on my example, a black-dialed ZO8000, is smooth, though it does move two or three seconds when set to run from hacking position. Not a problem, as 2-3 seconds later, it begins running as intended. It's also very accurate, just 5-6 seconds fast per day. Still present from the first run is the wonderful build quality, bold dial/hands/case styling, robust screwdown crown (10 turns worth), and nifty and deeply engraved caseback. My only gripe with this watch is with its bracelet, which unfortunately has links so big and clasp micro adjustments so few that precise sizing is difficult. Luckily, the Oceanaire is a knockout on rubber straps. (see below) Simply put, you will not find another Swiss Made diver with this much presence and such a rich set of features for $200.

]]> Reto TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Tue, 01 Feb 2011 11:31:49 -0500 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,237071,237071#msg-237071 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,237071,237071#msg-237071
Submitted by Adam in NYC]]> Reto TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:41:16 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230157,230157#msg-230157 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230157,230157#msg-230157Chosen by: Micha & Paulo
Why?: I'd like to suggest the Poljot Okeah, because it offers an unique looking watch for under $200. The Poljot 3133 movement is among Poljot's best.
Poljot chronographs with the 3133 movement are available starting bellow $200, making them one of the most interesting proposals for poor men chronographs presently. This Shturmanskie is an elegant timepiece that won a "beauty contest" in PMWF (a poll I made with 4 Poljot chronographs) and can be had for lit]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:34:57 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230156,230156#msg-230156 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230156,230156#msg-230156*Chosen by: Bjorn Keizers
*Why: It's a high-quality watch in all respects. Superb fit & finish allround, outstanding bracelet, nice weight, excellent movement - everything we love in the Monster in a dressier, friendlier package. Available in white, black & orange dials and with both the 7s26 movement as well as the quartz 7N36 movement.
Additional Comments (paulc): This is one of several Seiko 7S26/36/35 divers and it represents them all in terms of a best buy. This might help people new to watches who look at the Top 20 as a place to pick one out.]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:34:19 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230155,230155#msg-230155 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230155,230155#msg-230155*Chosen by: Micha, Bas and Wen
*Why?: Since the Nomos Tangente is about to be "banned" to the "old dogs" list, I thought another German watch should take its place. The Stowa Antea LE has the same clean Bauhaus looks as the Nomos, but at EUR 285 (incl Shipping, it's much more affordable than the Nomos (the basic Tangente costs EUR 690).]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:33:36 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230153,230153#msg-230153 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230153,230153#msg-230153*Chosen by: Dan (Zeb)
*Why?: First off, it's great looks and large size. The faceted shape of the case with it's sharp edges is mean looking, and the very square and angular bracelet add to the tough look. It fits right in with the tastes of todays WIS. Second, where else can you get a Swiss made 300 meter diver with automatic movement and sapphire crystal for around $400.00 USD retail? I'm truly amazed at the value this watch represents.
Summary: A Swiss made monster of a dive watch for only twice the Under $200 limit. It can't be beat.]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:33:04 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230152,230152#msg-230152 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230152,230152#msg-230152*Chosen by: TakesALickin' (Jeff)
*Why?: It's just a heckuva good watch and a great deal at under $300 w/bracelet!

*** Moved out of the Top 20 Jan. 9, 2009 - Discontinued ***]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:32:25 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230151,230151#msg-230151 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230151,230151#msg-230151*Chosen by: Cafe (Evan)
*Why?: A $205 customized watch that gives the rugged Seiko Diver a British MoD dive watch look.]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:31:47 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230150,230150#msg-230150 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230150,230150#msg-230150*Chosen by: TMK (Ted)]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:31:06 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230148,230148#msg-230148 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230148,230148#msg-230148*Chosen by: Micha
* Why?: For 590€ you'll get a 300m Diver with a design of it's own. The finish of the case is just perfect. Despite it's size, it's very comfortable to wear - even on a small wrist.]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:28:58 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230147,230147#msg-230147 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230147,230147#msg-230147*Chosen by: GMF (Gary M. Frazer)
* Why?: Power reserve complication, decorated manufacture movement, classic style, solid link bracelet with deployant clasp. Where else can you find a Japanese (or Swiss) watch with all that for less than $300.00 US?
Moved to Old Top Dogs January 2008]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:28:11 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230146,230146#msg-230146 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230146,230146#msg-230146*Chosen by: john (NL)
* Why?: The reason I like this watch is the massive size of it. I don't think I have ever seen a watch this size and weight. It's a real PMW with a RMW appearance (less than $100).]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:27:29 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230145,230145#msg-230145 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230145,230145#msg-230145*Chosen by: Mike Stuffler
* Why?: Where do you get such much watch for USD 95?]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:26:09 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230142,230142#msg-230142 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230142,230142#msg-230142*Chosen by: Adam in NYC]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:23:44 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230141,230141#msg-230141 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230141,230141#msg-230141*Chosen by: mwilding
* Why?: This is a great looking watch and a great value. It is more expensive than many of the Zodiacs PMWFers are frequently posting kudos about, but this model seems to be a cut above.]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:22:55 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230140,230140#msg-230140 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230140,230140#msg-230140*Chosen by: Paulo
* Why?: This is an elegant GMT(inner bezel rotates, acting as the 24h hand) that can be had for less than $400. A superbly finished timepiece on a 3mm thick bracelet with double button clasp.]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:21:56 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230139,230139#msg-230139 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230139,230139#msg-230139*Chosen by: Matt V.
* Why?: For way under $500, the Sector 600 ana-digi offers a large, solid stainless steel case, solid bracelet, sapphire crystal and one of the best implementations of an analog-digital quartz movement in this price class. Lots of functions on the movement, this watch is fun to wear and fun to experiment with (new straps).]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:21:12 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230138,230138#msg-230138 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230138,230138#msg-230138*Chosen By: John Lind
* Why?: The Astrographic 2000 is a collectible commemorative of Zodiac's unique and distinctive mystery dial Astrographics that were introduced in 1971. Their hallmark is an orbiting red dot seconds marker and floating hour/minute hands that have no (easily) visible means of attachement. In 2000, while Zodiac was struggling financially and ownership rapidly changed hands a couple times, a limited production of no more than 500 each were made with black, blue and silver dials in square and round cases. The Astrographic 2000 is an update of the original concept using modern materials, design and construction, with solid stainless cases, heavy solid link bracelets, sapphire crystals, and high grade 25j 28.8k bph ETA 2824-2 movements. With a MSRP of $1295, it broke the $1000 PMW limit, but street prices when first released were under that. They can be bought now (in 2006) for under $500, if one can be found, and there are still a small handful of NOS to be had. "In the flesh," they are a beauty to behold. With Fossil's ownership of Zodiac since 2002, and the nearly complete elimination of mechanicals from Zodiac's collections, it's unlikely we'll see another mechanical Astrographic in the foreseeable future.]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:18:37 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230137,230137#msg-230137 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230137,230137#msg-230137*Chosen by: Joon
*Why?: I believe the Skyhawk is the one of the most versatile & useful watches around, especially if you travel or need to know times in various countries like I do. The preset and quick change of time zones is a wonderful feature. It can be had even from ADs for about $200 and for $150 or less used. Since it's Eco-Drive it's virtually maintenance free!]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:17:56 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230136,230136#msg-230136 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230136,230136#msg-230136*Chosen by: John Lind
*Why?: The "Singapore" Sandoz Explorer is a great value for under $250 with classic style, excellent materials, proven workhorse movement, and a well executed fit/finish that creates a good looking, reliable, and quite durable watch. Dial and hand style are that of a Rolex Air King, but in slightly larger 36mm traditional Explorer size with date (the Air King is 34mm without date). The example depicted in the photo has the centers of the band and end links polished which dresses it up a little. Stock, the centers are brush finished. Note the shape of the case between the lugs, and the end links. If you want to dress it up more, and make it wear heavier, there are aftermarket, very heavy solid link "President" bands with the same radius on the ends that will fit this case (found only on the Singapore version of the Sandoz Explorer).]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:17:15 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230135,230135#msg-230135 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230135,230135#msg-230135*Chosen by: Paperboy Part Deux
*Why?: Just an excellent value in a solar-powered quartz diving watch. Weighs as much, perhaps even more than the chunky Seiko Monster, yet wears very comfortably on the wrist. Very accurate quartz movement...just +5 seconds in just over three weeks of use...with a tight seconds hand that hits the chapter ring marks dead on. The crown may seem a little odd at first, but one quickly gets used to it, and it screws down to boot. The dial is simple in shimmering blue, with just a date complication and excellent lume on the markers and hands. This watch can normally be found for around $100 on the 'net, which in and of itself is a great price for what you get, but sometimes can be found for around $60 to $70 when blowout sales are taking place. If you have to have one quartz diver, this might be it.]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:16:25 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230134,230134#msg-230134 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230134,230134#msg-230134*Movement & Specs: ETA 2824-2
*Chosen by: Geoff aka slicefixer
*Why?: Best value in a watch I've ever owned.....IF you like the Panerai "look".]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:15:29 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230132,230132#msg-230132 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230132,230132#msg-230132*Chosen by: Evan BC3 (non Diver) & Kramer (Diver)
*Why?: High quality and inexpensive pilot style watch made by Oris, emphasis > on "made by Oris".
For a mere 100$ more, it seems reasonable.]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:14:51 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230130,230130#msg-230130 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230130,230130#msg-230130*Chosen by: Wen
*Why?: The 4Star Maritime is a beautifully styled and finished 42mm aviator automatic with display back. ETA 2824 movement. And it comes with that Jurgen tropic strap that you would probably add anyway. Great buy at $329.]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:14:08 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230129,230129#msg-230129 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230129,230129#msg-230129*Chosen by: Paulo]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:13:33 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230128,230128#msg-230128 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230128,230128#msg-230128*Chosen by: Waco Kid
*Why?: $398, stainless steel O&W case, ETA 2824-2, screw-down crown and back, domed mineral glass, Marathon dial with Tritium vials that glow all night and day for a dozen years, any strap/bracelet you want, GMT or 60 min bezel, 200 m. A unique and practical watch that can go anywhere. Image stolen from Westcoastime.com.]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:12:42 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230127,230127#msg-230127 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230127,230127#msg-230127*Chosen by: Ron Corimer
*Why?: The Omega Speedmaster Reduced is cosmetically similar to the Omega cal 321 or cal (1)861 Moonwatch complete with Hesalite crystal, but this is where the similarities end.
The Reduced model uses heavily modified and decorated version of "the tractor" ETA 2892 movement as a basis, but the Omega engineers have coupled it to the VERY thin Dubois Dépraz Chronograph module. This lends the Reduced it's very slim profile and allows the watch to be produced more inexpensively than traditional column wheel or shuttle-cam chronographs, without the loss of functionality or reliability. This, of course, results in both the "reduced" model's smaller size and lower profile than its predecessors. Additionally, the watch is commonly sold within the PMW pricing limit, often much lower.]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:12:00 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230126,230126#msg-230126 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230126,230126#msg-230126*Chosen by: jeffc, AdamInNYC]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:11:16 -0400 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230125,230125#msg-230125 http://www.pmwf.com/Phorum/read.php?37,230125,230125#msg-230125*Chosen by: Paulo
*Why?: Nettuno 3 is the improved 2004 Marcello C model that replaces the no longer available award winning Nettuno 2 (voted "best watch under €500.00" by a German watch magazine in 2003). One of the nicest classic diver watch design and a timeless timepiece, with a great quality and price.]]> Jittery Jim TOP 20 Poor Man's Watches drop outs (until 2010)Fri, 06 Aug 2010 18:10:39 -0400