1000$ collection
I get a lot of questions on what I would recommend for a budget watch collection. For some, that means one or two Casios, while others regard “budget” as a couple of Rollies and 10/15 Japanese models. Today, I’ll be using 1000$ as my budget suggestion. You make variations based on preference and economic state.
What is important to remember when building a collection?
Buy watches that YOU enjoy. Don’t care about others.
Have a varied selection of pieces that can work in all different scenarios.
I like to focus on one or two main pieces, with a few other supplements.
Don’t care what I say. Collecting is personal, and you should only care about your own preference. Just don’t buy fakes.
That said, here’s what I would go for on a 1000$ budget:
The everyday:
Seiko Srpe57K1 or any other SRPE (300$)
I believe that Seiko is starting to reach a price segment where they are no longer competitive. Prices are ever-increasing, while certain QC issues prevail. Seeing how much these movement actually cost, the watches certainly start to look over-priced. The SRPE line looks so good, though! And they’ll keep ticiking forever. Therefore, the SRPE lineup is my suggested everyday-piece.
The Diver:
Casio MDV107/106 (70$)
The Casio Duro is a staple in the cheap-diver category. At between 50 and 100$ it offers absolutely unbeatable value. 200 meters of water resistance and an unmistakenly divery design, this one is a proper homerun. Do keep in mind that it’s pretty huge at 44mm.
The dress-watch:
Casio MTP-1370L (70$)
Yeah, you might understand that I really like Casio. It’s all for a good reason, though. This is quite possibly the cheapest day/date watch in the market. If you’re lucky, this one can be found for 50$, that’s getting more and more difficult for each day. Do keep in mind that the case is not made of solid stainless steel. It had me fooled for quite a while, so it still looks pretty good. You might want to swap out the strap.
The special piece:
Your favorite microbrand (500$?)
There is so much on offer in the microbrand watch scene at the moment. When looking for something that’s both unique and value-packed, I think you should definitely check out what’s available near you. Prices will obviously vary a lot, but there’s no shortage of options around 500$. I live in Norway, thus Norwegian brands will always have a special place in my heart. Search for local microbrands and pick out your favorite. Here are some of my local suggestions:
AIGI KSAT, availible for around 500$ with the NH35 movement.
Bragdur Jernhybrid, Seiko movement, around 500$
DeSanders Voyage GMT, NH34. Slightly more expensive, pre-order was around 500$
The G-Shock
Casio G-Shock DW-5600 (60$)
The Square G is an incredibly important watch, historically speaking. It’s a staple in any major collection, and possibly the one watch that everyone should have. Wearable, durable and cooler than beans.
What do you think of this 1000$ collection? Let me know over on Instagram.