[ubermonkey]

The tension now in mechanical watches between craftsmanship/longevity/utility and status/collect-ability is weird, and distorts the market a little.

Rolex used to be a utility watch, not a luxury watch. That's clearly changed a LOT, even to the point that I occasionally hear people say silly things about babying them (e.g., not going in the water in one, which is crazy).

Omega was less inflated when I bought my Brosnan-era "Bond" Seamaster (2531.80) back in the late 90s (and fairly so; 90s-era Seamasters have ETA movements, but Rolex is in-house, and this matters to Watch People). It was less than two grand at the time, for a crazy-robust watch I can do anything in and wear anywhere. Now the Bond thing has inflated the value of Seamasters INSANELY so they, too, are out of reach for most people.

[MarkMarine]

You just have to search for a brand that for some reason isn't flashy on the used market. I have a late 2000s JLC Master Compressor, you (could) get them for a couple grand used, like I did. Not sure about the prices now. I freedive with mine, I fix cars with it on, but if you know about the movement it's a watchmaker's watch.

[itbeho]

Fellow owner of a 2531.80 of a similar vintage. It's been on my wrist through many sailing and climbing adventures. Fantastic watch for the money and quite durable. Keeps great time for a mechanical watch as well.

[ubermonkey]

I will note, however, that if you take back to the snooty jeweler you bought it from for a bracelet adjustment and then drawl "Hey, how ya make that laser shoot out?", they will not think you are funny.