RedSoxMan

Correct--the "Synthetic Sapphire" at Cartel is "Scratch Resistant" Mineral Glass.

Interesting theory. I guess I'd add to it the fact that Reps have gotten so good... (Wall Street Journal recently reported that 9 out of 10 Rolex's you see are replicas...) On the other hand, luxury watches were never about accurately telling time... maybe they were at first, but not for a long time. And there will always be a class of people who seek status through material signifiers: such as watches, cars and clothes... The economy will take it's toll--and we've seen that with a depreciation of prices in the Gen market; but, long-term, I think luxury watches will remain strong, for better or worse. RSM

The easiest way to handle this, IMO, is to mate the 24 dial with a new 199 Ultimate. The 199 Ultimate has a decent Date Font/Mag... It wouldn't be a 24a unless you replaced the bezel... But a very good 24... Possibly the 25 could be used with the 199 ultimate, too... My 2 cents. RSM

I've owned at least 30+ watches with the new A7750 (high beat) and they've all been great--reliable time, never have broken down... It's the only movement I can say that about. (Supposedly the MOST reliable movements, the 21j and 6497 have given me some issues--never the new A7750.) I think the older A7750's (low beat) had their share of problems, and sort of sullied the reputation of the new one--even though it's completely different. Yeah, just get it serviced if you want to ensure longevity. One thing: never wind an automatic movement. You'll end up doing damage. Also, always set the date when the hour hand is at the 6... And don't play around with your Chronos... Good luck. RSM

:drool:

:drool:

I'd get the white on this one... I'm not even a white dial person, but for this--it's tops.

You've done your research. I went with the Davidsen 104 myself--I think you get more for your $ now that Andrew has raised the prices on the Ultimate 104's... Also, Davidsen's comes already "superlumed". Get one, it's not too big. RSM

I'd wait, you'll buy it--and then v4 will come out with the correct bezel font. And your v3 will bum you out all of a sudden (and not be a great re-sale item, either.) RSM

J. Mayer seems like a nerdy kid who suddenly has all the high-end cars, babes and watches--and can't get the sh*t-eating grin off his face.

I agree--50-50 is most fair if there was no "Pre-Agreement" regarding risks. RSM

Mate, Sorry to say, I agree with The Zigmeister--the color is off--the rep color was better... and the paint does look like... well... paint. Maybe you can take it out and remove the paint? (Or get dealer to send you a new one.)

GET ONE! They may not have many left... This is a gorgeous piece, #44 of 333 total, and I'm proud to own it. The gold-plated Swiss 6497 is something to behold. I like it better than any of the other Pilots by Steinhart/Debaufre because of the simple dial. Anyway, here are some pics... Here's a group shot with a 3717 V3 and BP V1... As you can see, it holds it's own. Because I like it so much, I've since sold my 3717 and BP. RSM

Santos 100--42 x 42. Perfect with a suit.

:drool: :drool: :drool: :drool: :drool: :drool: :drool: :drool:

Just know that the dial of this V2 you're interested in, is NOT as accurate as the V1's. The PR indicator is way to central on the dial (look at pics of the V1). This is to acommodate the PR movement, but pretty off IMO. All of them are plastic (underneath a thin veil of leather); so, some people are fooled. Definitely an after-market strap is needed. RSM

Thailand isn't affected by this. RSM

I meant to say the PT one--not the TT one. The better one...

Pay the extra for the TT one. If you don't, you'll likely regret it at some point...

I can't tell--the movement is hidden by decoration bridges... IF IT IS a problem with the coils touching, is it readily fixable by me? Thanks, RSM

Just bought a SOSF with Asian movement (assuming 21j -- although movement is decorated and I think runs at 21k bph)... It's running around 4-5 minutes fast PER HOUR. It's brand new from a dealer in Asia. Advice appreciated... Thanks, RSM

Great response, Chris. I think you're spot-on with the idea of ego and the West. And I do think the OP's problem has to do with a fear of being "lost" or misplaced in some way, and likely has to do with something from childhood. But, who really knows... best explored with a good therapist. Good luck. RSM