Great Watches Under $5,000
Seiko SBGX075
Grand Seiko has been its own separate brand for several years now. Before it became its own entity, however, Grand Seiko was “just” a line of watches under the Seiko umbrella. Seiko/Grand Seiko timepieces are known for their high-precision movements, intricate decorations, and extremely detailed craftsmanship. As is expected with watches, once a model goes out of production – especially if it’s as beautifully crafted as this Grand Seiko SBGX075 – prices will start to rise. That being said, the Seiko Grand Seiko SBGX075 is still well under the $5,000 mark. It is a special anniversary edition and features a unique dial design. To start, it still has both the Seiko and Grand Seiko names on the dial; this isn’t the case with newer Grand Seiko timepieces. The watch also boasts the classic Grand Seiko lion logo and the text “50th Anniversary” at 3 o’clock next to the date aperture. This watch is a must-have for every Seiko/Grand Seiko collector, as well as any lover of fine Japanese watchmaking.
Enthusiast’s Corner: Rare and Exceptional Timepieces
Breguet Tradition 7097
Known as the grandfather of watches, Abraham-Louis Breguet is one of – if not the most – influential watchmakers that has ever lived. His legacy is full of inventions (and innovations), such as the tourbillon escapement, the Breguet overcoil, and the retrograde display. It should, therefore, come as no surprise that the watch we are featuring in this week’s Enthusiast’s Corner features one of these famous innovations, namely a retrograde seconds display. The Breguet Tradition 7097 is a wonderful timepiece with a time-only main dial at 12 o’clock and a retrograde seconds display at 10 o’clock. While this watch is a modern Breguet creation, it has all the characteristics of vintage Breguet timepieces from a bygone era. These include tempered blue steel Breguet-style hands, an engine-turned dial, and a classic round case with thin straight lugs. Its 40-mm white gold case is contemporary in size, while the open dial adds to the awesome 21st century aesthetic. You can’t go wrong with a Breguet – why not go for this Tradition 7097?
Iconic Timepieces: Great Value for Money
Zenith Defy Classic Titanium
The Zenith Defy Classic Titanium is by no means a new watch. This version is based on a vintage Zenith model, but it is much more forward-thinking than most retro nods. This Zenith Defy does take its inspiration from the past, but it is a brand-new watch in a modern case – at least as far as the material is concerned. The 41-mm titanium Defy is a great size and features a beautiful deep blue dial. The only “complication” is a date window at 3 o’clock. We suggest trying it with the integrated bracelet, as we think it pairs the best; however, if you are not keen on titanium bracelets, Zenith also offers the Defy Classic Titanium on a matching blue rubber strap. The Zenith Defy is also available with a skeletonized dial, but that version doesn’t have the restrained elegance of this Defy Classic Titanium.
