Which watch?

[mad dog]

What's the point of wearing a nice watch and then covering it up with a sock?

A very valid point, sir. I'm just trying to protect it somewhat while wearing it in the cockpit. During layovers, I switch to more conventional bands...as well as utilize more conventional bands at home.

Layover in PHL with a conventional band [the @ChuckMK23 Mt. Baker band]...

 

[ChuckMK23]

Obviously you guys are a little biased, but still, where would you rank Omega Speedmaster with the other "luxury sport watches" like IWC Pilot Chrono, or the Bremont watches?

And what about the saphire sandwich Omega? I think the movement looks really cool without the weight the auto watches have, but it doesn't have the "approved for space flight" on the back.

They are fine watches all around. The Omega is outstanding without being being quite as "Luxury" as Rolex. There is a certain functional nature to the Speedy - now would I like a Rolex GMT II Master? You betcha!

The Speedmaster is one of your best options at the "well under $5k" price point

 

[HAL Pilot]

Obviously you guys are a little biased, but still, where would you rank Omega Speedmaster with the other "luxury sport watches" like IWC Pilot Chrono, or the Bremont watches?

And what about the saphire sandwich Omega? I think the movement looks really cool without the weight the auto watches have, but it doesn't have the "approved for space flight" on the back.

I put Omega easily above those other brands.

But Bremont is nice, I have one on order.

 

[Pags]

I put Omega easily above those other brands.

But Bremont is nice, I have one on order.

IWC is very nice and a historic brand (made flieger watches for the Luftwaffe) while bremont is newer. The bremonts that I've seen have seemed very nice. Plus they've been making a name for themselves by doing squadron watches. I've seen a couple different TPS bremonts and a Dambusters one. Both were good looking and solid feeling watches.

Another good brand to consider is Tudor. Tudor is owned by Rolex but they have a much more approachable price point for the average aviator. I personally like the look of their Black Bay.

 

[ChuckMK23]

and you can't go wrong with Sinn (Germany)

 

[ChuckMK23]

and if you are looking for a cool strap - right here in The Queen City we have : https://www.cincystrapworks.com

 

[sickboy]

and you can't go wrong with Sinn (Germany)

I've got that same one, but with a UTC hand. It's awesome.

 

[Surf]

IWC is very nice and a historic brand (made flieger watches for the Luftwaffe) while bremont is newer. The bremonts that I've seen have seemed very nice. Plus they've been making a name for themselves by doing squadron watches. I've seen a couple different TPS bremonts and a Dambusters one. Both were good looking and solid feeling watches.

Another good brand to consider is Tudor. Tudor is owned by Rolex but they have a much more approachable price point for the average aviator. I personally like the look of their Black Bay.

I have also been looking into Tudor recently, specifically the Pelagos. If you dont have Sub money this is great, plus they just started putting in there own in house movements instead of the ETA's of previous models. Not that I have anything against ETA, it is just cool to see a company reach the point of going in house.

 

[sevenhelmet]

I have also been looking into Tudor recently, specifically the Pelagos. If you dont have Sub money this is great, plus they just started putting in there own in house movements instead of the ETA's of previous models. Not that I have anything against ETA, it is just cool to see a company reach the point of going in house.

Pretty watch. Regarding your "reach the point of going in-house" comment, you do know Tudor is made by the Rolex company, right?

 

[Surf]

Pretty watch. Regarding your "reach the point of going in-house" comment, you do know Tudor is made by the Rolex company, right?

I do, but like most Swiss watch company's in the entry level luxury market (with a few exceptions), Tudor's movement was outsourced. I was simply saying it is nice to see them reach the point like Breitling for example and produce an in-house alternative.

 

[Alpha_Echo_606]

Since I don't have NEX/AAFES privileges anymore I can't login and see the AAFES price, but here's the link for those who can:
https://www.shopmyexchange.com/omega-men-s-speedmaster-moon-watch-31130423001005/7452865

Other Omegas available as well:
https://www.shopmyexchange.com/browse/jewelry-watches/watches/_/N-4294874172+104733

Looks like they also have Hamiltons, Bell and Ross, and a few other higher end watches in their brand listing.

Not sure if it's the "best deal" out there but a good data point if you're looking to haggle with someone.

Just got approved for advanced AAFES privileges and ordered me a new OMEGA Seamaster tonight. I was surprised with the BETA test for the exchanges.

 

[Rugby_Guy]

Last question for you Speedmaster bubbas.

If I was going to pick up a speedy, I could save a buck buying used, but obviously possibly miss out on warranty stuff. If I plan on using USAA value property insurance, the warranty isn't really worth the AD mark up right? Or am I missing something that will bite me later?

 

[HAL Pilot]

Buy a used watch. Send it to Omega for a full service. It comes back like new with a year warranty. Probably $500-$1000 for a full service depending on the watch.

 

[sevenhelmet]

Last question for you Speedmaster bubbas.

If I was going to pick up a speedy, I could save a buck buying used, but obviously possibly miss out on warranty stuff. If I plan on using USAA value property insurance, the warranty isn't really worth the AD mark up right? Or am I missing something that will bite me later?

What @HAL Pilot said. Also, from what I hear, some ADs will give you a discount off the sticker price. Buying used, make sure you look at the service history, especially if it's more than a couple of years old. Current price to service a Speedmaster is about $750, assuming no other parts are needed. I got a 2.5 year warranty when I had mine serviced after the Great Drop Catastrophe of May, 2017. Turnaround took a few weeks, so factor that into your planning.

When I originally bought my Speedy, I bought on the grey market... but I wouldn't recommend it in hindsight. If something goes wrong, you're basically left holding the bag. Definitely insure through USAA, but they won't cover it against malfunction, just loss, theft, or damage. The warranty + insurance covers all your bases.

 

[ChuckMK23]

What @HAL Pilot said! There are pre-owned Speedy's for ale in the $1500 - 2K range - depending what the personal situation of the seller is. It takes more legwork, but if I had to do it again, that would be my first choice - then send it off to Basel for 6 weeks to geta full service and it comes back in plastic condom like new.