By Thomas Hendricks
For this month’s Watch Hunting, we sat down with Robert-Jan Broer, founder of Fratello Magazine and creator of “Speedy Tuesday,” to discuss his watch recommendations. Spoiler: One of them is an iconic watch seen in a movie you probably know.
Great Watches Under $5,000
Tudor Pelagos LHD
Fans of the Tudor Black Bay 58 should definitely check out the Tudor Pelagos LHD. Robert-Jan Broer is a fan of this no-nonsense tool watch because it captures the spirit of the Rolex Submariner 16600 and adds a genuine highlight to the Tudor catalog. It’s a highly durable diver with a whopping 500 m (1,640 ft) of water-resistance. Its titanium case and ergonomic left-sided crown keep the watch feeling light and unimposing on the wrist. Its square hour markers go perfectly with the blocky snowflake hour and second hands. Tough and tasteful? That’s a win-win if you ask us.
Enthusiast’s Corner: Rare and Exceptional Timepieces
Urwerk 103.03
RJB describes the Urwerk 103.03 as a “machine from the future,” and that pretty much hits the nail right on the head. Speaking of which, you’ll undoubtedly turn heads with this timepiece’s wandering hour display, immensely technical movement, and grooved white gold case. To be sure, the ca. $46,000 price tag isn’t exactly peanuts, but even the Royal Oak enthusiast at your next watch meetup will wish they had a statement piece of this magnitude. Both Michael Jordan and Ralph Lauren own Urwerk watches – that’s great company to be in, don’t you think?
Iconic Timepieces: Great Value for the Money
Seamaster 300M 2531.80
Introduced in 1993 for the James Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies, the Omega Seamaster 300M 2531.80 is a signature departure from the brand’s storied past. While some may scoff at its helium escape valve or intricate nine-link bracelet, this watch has come into its own as a neo-vintage emerging classic. Robert-Jan (who owns two himself) recommends opting for a pre-1998 tritium model. But get a move on, because prices continue to rise for this 007 icon.
Read more
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