ubiquitous

I'm also of the mindset that the T should be omitted. Just for sake of what it represents. However, if you could really do tritium lume, it would not only make the indication accurate, but it would be way nifty as well!

I've seen scratches on the inside of used crystals before- Usually the result of someone trying to rub away debris on the inner surface prior to installing, etc.

I think Ken brings up an interesting point. Here, we're more of a family. There is a true sense of community present, and one I'm proud to be a part of...

Wow K... You've still got that thing?!

I somehow doubt that for a couple of reasons- 1) If NEW high quality stuff is released, people generally buy (especially if it's a model that's been highly anticipated). 2) The rep forum markets are a small percentage of the overall purchasing demographic; production is not based solely on whether collectors from the forums are buying or not, but rather from an overall global demographic that covers not just Internet sales, but also retail through outlets and vendors within the physical marketplace. Travellers/vacationers are probably just as likely to buy the high quality stuff as well as the junk trinket souvenirs whilst visiting such countries, especially since prices can be negotiated from vendors/stalls in person. As for producing the low cost novelty watches; I am sure just about any watch making factory in China can churn those things out, which is why production of such items never really declines. Conversely, finding a good, competent factory to produce the high quality stuff to meet volume requirements and QC without being difficult to work with is likely a greater challenge for our dealers.

Franken-Pilot today:

Rich? No (I wish!) Married? Yes (with a lovely wife who is very supporting of my hobby) Enjoying the hobby to it's fullest? I try Crazy? I think that oft times it's a requisite to be in this hobby (or a masochist) Usually, I'm right on target of 30%-ish, but that's going off of current pre-owned market of gen in most cases (since I usually build the vintage stuff)... For the 16520 Daytonas, if I can build one within $4500.00, I consider that good; anything below is great. For the Tudor Monet Carlo, I'm currently at $4600.00, which is well below 30% of the $19k that the 703x starts at current market prices. My worst ratio was when I built my Planet Ocean for $1100.00 (gens can be had pre-owned at $1700.00). It's kinda ridiculous, and a lot of folks don't understand why I do what I do. It's not so much the money per se, but the enjoyment that I get from building the pieces that I've always wanted. By now, for what I've got into the hobby in aggregate over the past 6 years, I could have bought some really nice gens, but in the big picture, no matter what hobby I'd be in I'd be throwing money away, cause that's what hobbies do. If I were still modding cars, I'd be sinking money into a depreciating asset that could be destroyed at any given moment while driving (and with the kinds of drivers out on the road, that's a very likely possibility). So, when it comes to fun money, I try not to stress whether things are a great deal, or a good deal, whether it makes sense or not, etc. I leave that worrying to my actual investments where returns really do matter. For watch building, I'm just here to have a good time, and maybe end up with something nice to wear on the wrist

Results look fantastic! The difference is quite apparent in my opinion. I also think that the steel bezel blends quite nicely with the otherwise two tone parts on your case/dial. Looks great!

It does seem as though the good quality stuff has been few and far between. Maybe they're shopping new factories or vendors for production?

Great to have you back, Andy! How'd that insert I sent you hold up on your assignment?

In general, I try to stay around 30% of gen for builds. If I can meet that target, I'm happy But if I go over, it's not critical either...

Great work, J! Very, very creative...

It's a beauty, S! You know... For the longest time, I've never really fully appreciated the Cali dial until recently. I've finally woken up to it's character and charm Looks great!

Personally, I would consider the following: 1) If you went to your local AD, how much of a discount from MSRP do you think you can negotiate right now for the current 111? Considering new vs pre-owned/lightly used with depreciation, I would take that figure into account and adjust accordingly. 2) What are used examples selling for otherwise in comparison? My personal observation seems to be around $3100 - $3700 depending on condition, complete package, etc. (some of which also come with a multitude of used straps thrown in as well). 3) What are all those (used) straps worth to you? One certainly can't give full/new value on them considering they are used, even though I see used straps sell for ridiculous money on Paneristi, (depending on specifics and type). The bracelet would probably have some pretty sustainable value, however. The rubber/deployant should be excluded from the added value of the straps as that is what comes with the watch as new, I believe (PAM folks can correct me on this, as it may possibly come OEM with the rubber AND a calf, I think)? To me, $4500 may be an okay price considering, but surely nothing to write home about. ...but then again, I'm not a huge PAM guy either

When I did mine, C2 was the size I used. C1 was way too short.

@red- Great to see you around a little more as of late!

I like the idea as well! This will give me incentive to get out a little more...

If done right, it could be a worthwhile endeavor. But you'd need to have the correct infrastructure in place for it to be successful...

That's the one. 295C with gasket height 2...

Just be aware that the effort vs. reward may be less than what you think. Seized product from customs, returns, items showing up DOA, QC return rate and most of all, the risk are all factors that you need to take into account. Yes, the margins look good on paper, but be aware that you may be faced with spending 2 - 3 times what your initial cost is to keep your customer happy. And above all, are you willing to face prosecution for selling replica goods? That is potentially the greatest consequence.... It's not that easy of a business methinks. In my time of collecting and observing the industry, I have seen many come and go... Some have left on terms not of their choosing...

Tudor for Weds:

Maybe some illicit chemicals need to be consumed in order to understand?

Errrr... Okay? Not sure what this is about, but I'll go with it...

You've been away for so long that your next purchase may very well like your first all over again Glad to see you stopping in, buddy You are absolutely missed by many!