The latest episode of Chrono24’s Watch Hunting series featured not one but two capable hunters. Rob Nudds and Balazs Ferenczi are editors at Fratello magazine and hosts of the WASP Podcast (watching sports and sporting watches). At times, the chronograph-centric conversation was full of enthusiasm and a little rowdy, as these hunters covered some fantastic models across multiple eras and price ranges. Let’s take a look:
Great Watches Under $5,000
While Balazs will forever be a fan of the Omega Speedmaster Professional, Rob (a trained watchmaker) is open to something a little more… complicated. The Omega Speedmaster Day-Date features an automatic movement with a buffet of functions, including not only a chronograph but also a triple calendar and a 24-hour timer. You also get aesthetic details like the classic twisted lugs, tritium lume, a hidden clasp on the bracelet, and a funky airplane-shaped date hand. That’s a lot to squeeze into 39 mm and a lot of watch for under $5,000.
Enthusiast’s Corner: Rare and Exceptional Timepieces
The more educated watch enthusiasts become, the more they talk about Gallet. This mid-century brand produced fantastic chronographs like this Multichron 12 model famously worn by the F1 driver Jim Clark. At 37 mm, the watch features balanced proportions, an Excelsior Park EP40-68 movement, and a rich patina. With the vintage chronograph market continuing to gain in popularity, the Gallet Multichron 12 makes a convincing case for “hidden gem” status.
Iconic Timepieces: Great Value for the Money
Another Omega? Yes, these guys are from Fratello, after all. A quartz movement? Yes, overlooked can often mean underappreciated. This Omega Seamaster “Albatros” from the 1976 Montreal Olympics is an oddball piece in the brand’s catalog with its combination digital chronograph and analog dial. Measuring 47 mm x 34 mm, the case seems awkward but fits like a G-SHOCK, and the retro-futuristic design perfectly encapsulates the era of the quartz crisis.
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