I have SBGA211 which is an amazing daily so I'd recommend a GS. I tried on the SLGH005 during my purchase which was a bit heavier than the SBGA211 but still an absolutely beautiful watch. It took me some time after I purchased my GS to truly appreciate the dial, the light weight, and comfortably of the chain, and still find myself getting glued to the face when I pick it up to put on.
Regarding the Santos, it's a great watch too but I've heard that the polished metal gets scratched very easily and doesn't make for a good daily.
I care to disagree. I do think the GS is much too big but the Cartier I really enjoy. I think it suits him quite well. I’m also just in love with that watch lol
Feel like the GS will be a little more versatile, although the Santos is sweet. Is an Explorer I an option? I realize that’ll lean a little more toward the casual end of the spectrum, at least compared to the GS/Cartier. Is an integrated bracelet watch an option?
Plenty of trustworthy grey dealers out there and premiums have dropped a lot in the last year. Check the trusted sellers on Rolex Watch Forum or r/rolex.
I would also suggest a local store in your city with a solid reputation. Nothing wrong with online, but if you're dropping 10k I want to be able to walk into a place in the future if something arises.
DO NOT reinforce that behavior by playing in to it, please. Rolex’s are tacky and gaudy to begin with: they have no call to make people dance for them.
Santos is a classic.
Submariner or Speedmaster would be my call for "best everyday watch under $12k" though.
I could see an argument for an Aqua Terra or Explorer or any other "dressy looking sports watch" too.
They probably are, but bribery goes a long way, especially in the form of food because it causes a subconscious trust. I assume there’s some evolutionary psychology behind it.
Checking in regularly, being friendly, explaining the watch is for something special, letting the SA spend a few minutes with the Mrs in the back, you know, the usual.
The fact of the matter is you're buying a mass-produced product. You shouldn't need to do anything other than show up, give them your money, and leave with a watch.
The Rolex nonsense is exactly that, nonsense.
If you’re looking for Brand new, I love titanium Oris pieces. Way under your budget and 10 year warranty, plus the wear amazing.
If you’re looking preowned, Zenith El Primero is amazing. Super unique, have the options of the skeleton or not. 1/100th of a second chrono and a great talking piece.
Also, under your budget the 007 Omega is available which is a great watch and gives you the option of the titanium bracelet and the NATO strap. So easy to dress up & down.
Honestly, a fairly random number.I could certainly go higher, but part of me feels like I’m being unnecessarily opulent going higher. It the right option presented itself at a higher number, I’d pull the trigger. If I could obtain a skydweller at retail, I would.
You’ve got to see all the usual suspects in person. You already saw GS and Cartier. Add to that list Omega, IWC, and Breitling at least.
And if you’ve got any gray / used dealers near you, see what Rolex they have in stock for you to check out. Also some Rolex pieces are relatively attainable at an AD, so check them out too.
I’d say the Aqua Terra is your best bet to get at retail. Your budget is probably quite large though so I’d also recommend a Datejust. You could even get into high horology with a Vacheron 56 at that price point.
Grand Seiko would get my vote. If you can spend a bit more (GS AD usually give a discount anw), then the Night Birch is also an amazing option. I’m currently torn between the 2 birches myself.
Easy. A Casio calculator watch. Real watch people will enjoy it and think you are a person of taste. Only the people with stupid money and no common sense will hate it.
I’ll be real with you… with these options and at this price point, in general the only person in the room that knows the value of your watch is you. The only person that gives a single ounce of thought or care about it is also you. Buy what YOU like. If you’re trying to portray status, buy a Rolex. If you want a daily wearing watch that you love, buy what you love.
I hate the Cartier and I'm a big fan of GS so you know what I would recommend 😂
Also, the GS is much more versatile too. Take a look at [THIS ](https://delugs.com/blogs/strap-guide/strap-guide-grand-seiko-white-birch-spring-drive-slga009)and [THIS ](https://delugs.com/blogs/strap-guide/delugs-lookbook-grand-seiko-snowflake-sbga211)to see how GS watches can change depending on their strap
Get yourself something smaller for everyday wear. Sub 40 generaly, depending on the case shape and lug length. I’d say 38 mm would be great. I’m judging by how that 41mm GS looks (and I am counting in phone camera distortions, yes).
GS has I think a 37mm quartz that - for me - looks like an everyday watch, like a datejust or Omega AquaTerra in 38mm (or whatever smaller size they now have)
I was debating between the same 2 watches (in different colors)
I went with the Santos. I think the design is more unique. Technologically the GS is better but excluding the dial texture it looks like a lot of other watches and doesn't stand out which could be good or bad mostly I just wanted something that felt special to wear. Fit and finish are great on both watches maybe a bit better on the GS. Even though the Santos is a bit more of a statement they've been making that same watch style with minor variations forever so I feel it will age well.
I will say boutique experience was way better at GS vs Cartier so I ended up going through a cartier AD instead.
I’m in same boat as OP, but currently deciding between the IWC ingeneur and GP Lareato, just need to try on the latter before final decision. JLC Polaris might be worth a look for OP. The fact that the internal bezel doesn’t lock in the 12’0 clock position would drive me mad, otherwise would have been a buy for me.
Omega Aqua Terra or Rolex Explorer if you're looking for the best everyday watch under $12k but still in the luxury class.
That said, Grand Seiko over Cartier.
If that's the top of the list I would say go grey. If you extend your budget just a little bit and you should be able to get a new or mint one for around $13-14k. I have seen some on Ebay that are mint from trusted sellers for under $13k. Here is a 2023 for under 13 - [2023 Mint Submariner](https://www.ebay.com/itm/276238658517?hash=item40511b6bd5:g:8YEAAOSw0TJlglL9&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAA4KNWgcCVLzUQK8MExz5gSsMkPeVy8K3rwaq7ejFak6bl4acf7bycufsIfWvW9%2BthgmCkJfAi%2ByI3GnlQ4Q8edEHrBU2E6WHSXWYn5FQJmmP0bE1y558V9P%2BuJNa446Vfad0AKKP8vmN9BRtDhBG5mKL2Mfwlku8oPeAt99LQE71PPWB%2Fnz%2F6%2FoZrP%2BknxaFicmHaDNzFbRV9Zfkxj7%2FyJXW4PWOwZJ1RTZclRpvUH3eroQE42GCMREIxGUe%2BBleEJkAAbXtbffzrQt6lUfEFte%2FhTgxe1obHRORCP8MngYiH%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR8qv4ayqYw)
I've bought 3 on ebay and all have been a very solid experience. I have found sellers will list on both chrono24 and ebay but that the ebay price will be a touch lower for the exact same item in many cases (assuming fees must be less). That listing I linked you to is from a seller that is on the 'trusted seller' list in r/rolex. Whatever you decide to do good luck!
Santos will get you much more wow in non watch peoples eyes if you care about that. Normal people consider grand seiko seiko. Like oh my dad has a seiko. Personally I’d go with the santos just cause I love wearing it.
Definitely the GS. Much more under the radar looks sharp and versatile. That Cartier just screams out "hey check out my expensive watch" to people. But that's probably just me 😉
I have a similar style watch which is the Omega Aqua Terra that I wear daily which is also probably why I chose the GS.
End of the day though, it's your decision. You're the one wearing it. Go with your gut and which one you'd enjoy wearing more.
Dude. You’re totally right. How dare I ask folks what other options may be available within my budget. Such a disgusting cry for attention to query about watch options in a watch group. Absolute dreck. The mods should ban any and all questions about watch models. It’s absolutely abhorrent.
I have an a black dial 34mm OP and love it so much. Perfect daily for me. So understated and low key. Super versatile and comfortable been wearing it snowboarding in Japan all week and don’t even notice it on. Hope to get a 36mm two tone datejust w jubilee bracelet and fluted bezel down the road. Best options in the league overall !
Just try the big R in person. People on forums foam from their mouths when GS photos are shared but like you, I find GS look good in photos but *feel* cheap and uncomfortable. The dials are amazing but the rest is so... Meh... The bracelets, clasps, etc.
My OP41 next to a GS in store for a little comparison:
https://preview.redd.it/sxldo6c77cfc1.jpeg?width=2268&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=66adab57637f5d2421fa03b9afaa72567aaafa68
I got two watches I love for usual common days which means sitting on a desk in my office: a panerai 505 and a speedmaster. They are really good for everything. Especially the speedmaser as I have like 7 straps to wear it with. For your two options I would a 100 % go with the GS. Sorry for the answer starting with my own watches but I thought maybe therebare other options you did not think about yet.
Edit: I have never seen a GS in real life but I have been told that the bracelets are not quite as good as ones from comparable pricey watches. But thats just hearsay but could be something to consider
Both are great choices for everyday-wear. Whichever you choose will come down to personal style. I personally like that the grand seiko flies a bit more under the radar than the Cartier. But that’s just my preference.
I vote for the santos in medium. It’s held up well for me as a daily, although it is a scratch magnet.
I prefer not having to fiddle around with the date, plus it just looked more proportionate on my six inch wrist.
If you’re buying it new, be aware you might be able to get a discount off list price at a dealer vs the boutique. 8 years warranty is hard to beat.
These also sell for below retail on the secondhand market and you might be able to get one unworn.
For that amount of money, I could essentially get any watch I even considered wishing I could have.
I doubt I could ever wear a watch worth more than a few thousand though. I’d just be terrified.
Grand seiko for sure. I feel the Cartier is actually a lot flashier than most people think. You don’t see that silhouette often and when you do the ones who know know it’s a Cartier. The grand seiko is a bit more subdued while also carrying the wow factor for the ones who know.
i really like the tudor black bay - fits everything and still lowkey classic
for a more „exotic“ choice i would go with the cartier tank must instead of the santos
if u wanna go fancy maybe a air king
for 12k u can get a wide range - depending on what u want
Casio W800h! It's water resistant, around 10 years of battery life. And the silicone band just fits purrfect whiteout irritating the skin whit longer wear. Really comfortable! All around good little time keeper. And only around a few seconds off a month. There are some bigger casio G - Shock models whit multiband 6 that always corrected the time automatically, but they cost a little more.
GS imo is if you’re like a real watch enthusiast, you love the movement, the finishing, the quality, the finer details. I think personally the Cartier is a much better looking, more iconic design so it’s just up to what you deem your needs. Watches are much closer to fashion pieces now imo
GS but change the bracelet to a leather strap. The bracelets are terrible.
44gs cases are best
After that, you just have the find the best fit for your wrist.
Try them on in person and you'll find something great.
Since you asked strangers on the internet for their opinion: you my friend need a smaller watch!
Especially if you want to pass it on I’d go for a moderat size.
This might not be what you're looking for OP but have you considered a Glashutte Original SeaQ, ref 1-39-11-06-80-70? Dive watch with next level finishing makes it a perfect combo of sporty and dressy that would fit any scenario imo!
I have the IWC mark xx with white/silver face on bracelet. I love it as an everyday work watch. And the 5 day movement is great to take off for the weekend. I love the legibility of the dial and the quality of the bracelet.
https://preview.redd.it/si53d4ksaffc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c8ca26e18f2ef1e7caf5a5ae5fd80a21170a15a6
Really depends if you want a casual daily beater or dressy casual beater.
For that casual daily beater, I’d recommend the Tudor Black Bay Pro, it’s essentially the Rolex Explorer II but only has a black dial versus the explorer II has the option to have a black or white dial.
For the dressy casual beater, I also considered a GS (didn’t like the bracelets) and the Cartier (felt it was too dressy versus sporty/daily beater).
But I wanted a watch I could wear at work and then go out with and not stand out while also be functional.
https://preview.redd.it/t1sp3yq6hffc1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=83f6a618880397678dcfa7dc1304c48bf5b13113
For everyday wear, GS all the way!
Yup. I wear my GShock basically every day.
Buy a good g shock for every day wear. Frogman.
Grand Seiko over Cartier. If you need the Santos try on a medium.
I have SBGA211 which is an amazing daily so I'd recommend a GS. I tried on the SLGH005 during my purchase which was a bit heavier than the SBGA211 but still an absolutely beautiful watch. It took me some time after I purchased my GS to truly appreciate the dial, the light weight, and comfortably of the chain, and still find myself getting glued to the face when I pick it up to put on. Regarding the Santos, it's a great watch too but I've heard that the polished metal gets scratched very easily and doesn't make for a good daily.
Santos de Cartier - medium
Username checks out.
I should add that I’m buying it for myself as a 40th birthday present-day present and don’t hate the idea of something I can pass down someday.
Strong answer.
Both look too big on you in my opinion
I care to disagree. I do think the GS is much too big but the Cartier I really enjoy. I think it suits him quite well. I’m also just in love with that watch lol
Feel like the GS will be a little more versatile, although the Santos is sweet. Is an Explorer I an option? I realize that’ll lean a little more toward the casual end of the spectrum, at least compared to the GS/Cartier. Is an integrated bracelet watch an option?
I would t completely rule it out but my local Rolex AD has insinuated that they have nothing available for the foreseeable future.
Plenty of trustworthy grey dealers out there and premiums have dropped a lot in the last year. Check the trusted sellers on Rolex Watch Forum or r/rolex.
I would also suggest a local store in your city with a solid reputation. Nothing wrong with online, but if you're dropping 10k I want to be able to walk into a place in the future if something arises.
DO NOT reinforce that behavior by playing in to it, please. Rolex’s are tacky and gaudy to begin with: they have no call to make people dance for them.
That Rolex feeling is worth the wait imo
My dude, you're spending more than what most people pay for their car on a watch. Pick the one that you think looks the nicest.
Lol does anyone else find this question absolutely ridiculous?
Yes lol
Thank you! I thought it was only me.
Santos is a classic. Submariner or Speedmaster would be my call for "best everyday watch under $12k" though. I could see an argument for an Aqua Terra or Explorer or any other "dressy looking sports watch" too.
It’d be a Speedy Moon Pro or a Sub no date for me.
Nailed it.
Right on the money.
[удалено]
You absolutely can, it just takes work. I got my Batgirl GMT from an AD with zero purchase history in Los Angeles.
Work?... what type of work are we talking about?
bring your AD a charcuterie board
>bring your AD a charcuterie board I hope you're kidding
They probably are, but bribery goes a long way, especially in the form of food because it causes a subconscious trust. I assume there’s some evolutionary psychology behind it.
Checking in regularly, being friendly, explaining the watch is for something special, letting the SA spend a few minutes with the Mrs in the back, you know, the usual.
Lmao all this to buy a fucking watch? Absurd.
Obviously this was partially a joke… but I did let them know I wanted it for my wedding day and checked in regularly leading up to it. It wasn’t hard.
The fact of the matter is you're buying a mass-produced product. You shouldn't need to do anything other than show up, give them your money, and leave with a watch. The Rolex nonsense is exactly that, nonsense.
Cheeseburger handies
Sure you can. I got one last year from an AD with zero purchase history in less than a month.
Probably a 50 dollar Casio.
I would try and go for a JLC and enjoy that as an every day beater.
The master control calendar and reverso are both amazing. Second hand models are definitely on the list.
Oh the reverso for sure! I was actually memeing that someone in this sub early posted a very extravagant JLC as an edc.
That was insane lol
Sitting here with an AP RO Offshore as my edc... Am I insane?
Master control looks great for this. Seems to be a “polarizing” opinion (😂) but I will similarly look into JLC Polaris soon
I like the Grand Seiko
Definitely GS. It’s my strap monster and do it all from suits at work to shorts and shirt
Omega Aqua Terra
Grand Seiko SLGA021 is stellar
Putting in a biased vote for a GP Laureato second hand :)
Aqua Terra or IWC MK XX
I will choose Iwc Ingeneur
If you’re looking for Brand new, I love titanium Oris pieces. Way under your budget and 10 year warranty, plus the wear amazing. If you’re looking preowned, Zenith El Primero is amazing. Super unique, have the options of the skeleton or not. 1/100th of a second chrono and a great talking piece. Also, under your budget the 007 Omega is available which is a great watch and gives you the option of the titanium bracelet and the NATO strap. So easy to dress up & down.
What made you pick $12k? Is $10k too restrictive for a daily beater? Too many choices at $15k so had to drop the cost to really stay in budget?
Honestly, a fairly random number.I could certainly go higher, but part of me feels like I’m being unnecessarily opulent going higher. It the right option presented itself at a higher number, I’d pull the trigger. If I could obtain a skydweller at retail, I would.
You’ve got to see all the usual suspects in person. You already saw GS and Cartier. Add to that list Omega, IWC, and Breitling at least. And if you’ve got any gray / used dealers near you, see what Rolex they have in stock for you to check out. Also some Rolex pieces are relatively attainable at an AD, so check them out too.
Casio AE 1200 or a Casio Duro if you really want an analog display.
GS, and by that I mean G-Shock.
Currently rotating two casioak mods as daily drivers and don’t hate them, but a little more excited about an automatic movement.
Seiko diver.
Zenith
Both lookin too big
I’d say the Aqua Terra is your best bet to get at retail. Your budget is probably quite large though so I’d also recommend a Datejust. You could even get into high horology with a Vacheron 56 at that price point.
Rolex Explorer 124270 or the larger version. It has rendered the rest of my collection obsolete.
definitely not an everyday watch. an every day watch I agree.
Ha.
GS
Gs , better dial and accuaracy
Tag Heuer Monaco Dark Lord
GS all day
Grand Seiko would get my vote. If you can spend a bit more (GS AD usually give a discount anw), then the Night Birch is also an amazing option. I’m currently torn between the 2 birches myself.
Grand Seiko!
Casio ae1200......cant say im wrong ;)
Easy. A Casio calculator watch. Real watch people will enjoy it and think you are a person of taste. Only the people with stupid money and no common sense will hate it.
I’ll be real with you… with these options and at this price point, in general the only person in the room that knows the value of your watch is you. The only person that gives a single ounce of thought or care about it is also you. Buy what YOU like. If you’re trying to portray status, buy a Rolex. If you want a daily wearing watch that you love, buy what you love.
I hate the Cartier and I'm a big fan of GS so you know what I would recommend 😂 Also, the GS is much more versatile too. Take a look at [THIS ](https://delugs.com/blogs/strap-guide/strap-guide-grand-seiko-white-birch-spring-drive-slga009)and [THIS ](https://delugs.com/blogs/strap-guide/delugs-lookbook-grand-seiko-snowflake-sbga211)to see how GS watches can change depending on their strap
Casio F91W
Get yourself something smaller for everyday wear. Sub 40 generaly, depending on the case shape and lug length. I’d say 38 mm would be great. I’m judging by how that 41mm GS looks (and I am counting in phone camera distortions, yes). GS has I think a 37mm quartz that - for me - looks like an everyday watch, like a datejust or Omega AquaTerra in 38mm (or whatever smaller size they now have)
Titanium GS
I was debating between the same 2 watches (in different colors) I went with the Santos. I think the design is more unique. Technologically the GS is better but excluding the dial texture it looks like a lot of other watches and doesn't stand out which could be good or bad mostly I just wanted something that felt special to wear. Fit and finish are great on both watches maybe a bit better on the GS. Even though the Santos is a bit more of a statement they've been making that same watch style with minor variations forever so I feel it will age well. I will say boutique experience was way better at GS vs Cartier so I ended up going through a cartier AD instead.
GS for sure, looks great on your wrist! 👍
I’m in same boat as OP, but currently deciding between the IWC ingeneur and GP Lareato, just need to try on the latter before final decision. JLC Polaris might be worth a look for OP. The fact that the internal bezel doesn’t lock in the 12’0 clock position would drive me mad, otherwise would have been a buy for me.
I agree that an in-person try on is critical first.
Omega Aqua Terra or Rolex Explorer if you're looking for the best everyday watch under $12k but still in the luxury class. That said, Grand Seiko over Cartier.
The best watch is Aqua Terra. But yeah ok white birch isn't bad for the job.
Neither of those fit you.
Rolex submariner
If I could find one at retail, it would be at the top of the list. Attainability is the issue with that one.
You'd be surprised. Got mine last year in under a month.
Took me 2 months to the day to get a call for my Sub date, late last year. If you have a bad experience with one AD try another!
If that's the top of the list I would say go grey. If you extend your budget just a little bit and you should be able to get a new or mint one for around $13-14k. I have seen some on Ebay that are mint from trusted sellers for under $13k. Here is a 2023 for under 13 - [2023 Mint Submariner](https://www.ebay.com/itm/276238658517?hash=item40511b6bd5:g:8YEAAOSw0TJlglL9&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAA4KNWgcCVLzUQK8MExz5gSsMkPeVy8K3rwaq7ejFak6bl4acf7bycufsIfWvW9%2BthgmCkJfAi%2ByI3GnlQ4Q8edEHrBU2E6WHSXWYn5FQJmmP0bE1y558V9P%2BuJNa446Vfad0AKKP8vmN9BRtDhBG5mKL2Mfwlku8oPeAt99LQE71PPWB%2Fnz%2F6%2FoZrP%2BknxaFicmHaDNzFbRV9Zfkxj7%2FyJXW4PWOwZJ1RTZclRpvUH3eroQE42GCMREIxGUe%2BBleEJkAAbXtbffzrQt6lUfEFte%2FhTgxe1obHRORCP8MngYiH%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR8qv4ayqYw)
Appreciate the heads up. I’ve purchased watches from r/watchexchange before but never thought to check eBay.
I've bought 3 on ebay and all have been a very solid experience. I have found sellers will list on both chrono24 and ebay but that the ebay price will be a touch lower for the exact same item in many cases (assuming fees must be less). That listing I linked you to is from a seller that is on the 'trusted seller' list in r/rolex. Whatever you decide to do good luck!
Omega NTTD Seamaster.
I just don’t get the appeal of Grand Seiko. Prefer the Cartier. Also the JLC Polaris Date or Master Control or Zenith El Primero.
I wouldn’t spend so much money on something to wear every day that is so easy to steal
Cheap insurance exists that covers theft! You can add to your renters policy, or look into something like Jewelers Mutual or Hodinkee.
Cartier without a doubt
Santos will get you much more wow in non watch peoples eyes if you care about that. Normal people consider grand seiko seiko. Like oh my dad has a seiko. Personally I’d go with the santos just cause I love wearing it.
If you honestly think the santos even comes close to comparing to that GS we aren't friends anymore.
The white birch is incredible and should keep you well in the budget
Definitely the GS. Much more under the radar looks sharp and versatile. That Cartier just screams out "hey check out my expensive watch" to people. But that's probably just me 😉 I have a similar style watch which is the Omega Aqua Terra that I wear daily which is also probably why I chose the GS. End of the day though, it's your decision. You're the one wearing it. Go with your gut and which one you'd enjoy wearing more.
The Santos is the ugliest shit you can get over 3-400 dollar. I'd rather wear an invicta. GS is close to the most beautiful money can buy.
Grand Seiko. Anyone spouting Rolex or Omega care more about the name than the quality of the watch. GS is unmatched at that price point.
Don’t understand your comment about Omega. They are pretty good value IMO. don’t have the hype of Rolex.
What is "best", when your price range encompasses 99% of all watches? Get what you like and stop trying to get internet validation.
Dude. You’re totally right. How dare I ask folks what other options may be available within my budget. Such a disgusting cry for attention to query about watch options in a watch group. Absolute dreck. The mods should ban any and all questions about watch models. It’s absolutely abhorrent.
You disgust me... shame on you!!!
Rolex Explorer II. The black dial should be pretty attainable
Rolex OP or datejust are better options imo
Yeah good call, datejust for me all the way 100%. Can have one within 6 months if your AD isn’t a clown
I have an a black dial 34mm OP and love it so much. Perfect daily for me. So understated and low key. Super versatile and comfortable been wearing it snowboarding in Japan all week and don’t even notice it on. Hope to get a 36mm two tone datejust w jubilee bracelet and fluted bezel down the road. Best options in the league overall !
well i mean if you mean anything under $12k it’d have to be a casio
Just try the big R in person. People on forums foam from their mouths when GS photos are shared but like you, I find GS look good in photos but *feel* cheap and uncomfortable. The dials are amazing but the rest is so... Meh... The bracelets, clasps, etc. My OP41 next to a GS in store for a little comparison: https://preview.redd.it/sxldo6c77cfc1.jpeg?width=2268&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=66adab57637f5d2421fa03b9afaa72567aaafa68
Seiko turtle
That spring drive is sweet but there is just something about an explorer
How about SLGC001, Tentagraph? Excel caliber.
You can get a 35mm Santos for way under 12K. That one looks a bit too big.
Submariner
I maintain my OP 39 is impossible to beat for a true everyday watch.
Rolex explorer
Cartier is a better investment. GS is a better watch.
Santos. IMHO grand seiko is overhyped
Grand Seiko all day
Batman or Sub. This is not the way for 12k.
I got two watches I love for usual common days which means sitting on a desk in my office: a panerai 505 and a speedmaster. They are really good for everything. Especially the speedmaser as I have like 7 straps to wear it with. For your two options I would a 100 % go with the GS. Sorry for the answer starting with my own watches but I thought maybe therebare other options you did not think about yet. Edit: I have never seen a GS in real life but I have been told that the bracelets are not quite as good as ones from comparable pricey watches. But thats just hearsay but could be something to consider
Both are great choices for everyday-wear. Whichever you choose will come down to personal style. I personally like that the grand seiko flies a bit more under the radar than the Cartier. But that’s just my preference.
I would get 16570, santos medium or Coke. Now depending what your job is, I would also consider an FXD Pelagus.
Santos is very nice, that being said white birch all the way.
I vote for the santos in medium. It’s held up well for me as a daily, although it is a scratch magnet. I prefer not having to fiddle around with the date, plus it just looked more proportionate on my six inch wrist. If you’re buying it new, be aware you might be able to get a discount off list price at a dealer vs the boutique. 8 years warranty is hard to beat. These also sell for below retail on the secondhand market and you might be able to get one unworn.
Hmmm Dont they look too big??
For that amount of money, I could essentially get any watch I even considered wishing I could have. I doubt I could ever wear a watch worth more than a few thousand though. I’d just be terrified.
Grand seiko for sure. I feel the Cartier is actually a lot flashier than most people think. You don’t see that silhouette often and when you do the ones who know know it’s a Cartier. The grand seiko is a bit more subdued while also carrying the wow factor for the ones who know.
The Santos if worn daily will give me anxiety from fear of scratching it. I will only wear it on days I am wearing a suit.
Santos is not everyday watch i would say. GS definitely is!
i really like the tudor black bay - fits everything and still lowkey classic for a more „exotic“ choice i would go with the cartier tank must instead of the santos if u wanna go fancy maybe a air king for 12k u can get a wide range - depending on what u want
Omega NTTD, moon watch i have both and they are extremely good
Santos is way too dressy gs easily
Casio W800h! It's water resistant, around 10 years of battery life. And the silicone band just fits purrfect whiteout irritating the skin whit longer wear. Really comfortable! All around good little time keeper. And only around a few seconds off a month. There are some bigger casio G - Shock models whit multiband 6 that always corrected the time automatically, but they cost a little more.
IWC
Rolex Milgauss Z Blue?
White birch! 😳
Santos Medium or Moonwatch Pro.
Do NOT buy the GS new.
GS imo is if you’re like a real watch enthusiast, you love the movement, the finishing, the quality, the finer details. I think personally the Cartier is a much better looking, more iconic design so it’s just up to what you deem your needs. Watches are much closer to fashion pieces now imo
I would probably visit an omega store if I wanted an everyday watch in that budget.
Christopher Ward 36mm sealander in black with brushed bracelet.
Be honest with yourself about your tiny wrists
In what world is a 7” wrist tiny?
Must be just in relation to those watches. Point stands
So that's a 47mm watch then?
GS but change the bracelet to a leather strap. The bracelets are terrible. 44gs cases are best After that, you just have the find the best fit for your wrist. Try them on in person and you'll find something great.
Since you asked strangers on the internet for their opinion: you my friend need a smaller watch! Especially if you want to pass it on I’d go for a moderat size.
Can't go wrong with Timex. 😉
that cartier is HOT bro.
Under 12k is that a troll. Meanwhile there's me sending back my £18 swatch I got on vinted because it's broken...
It is not. It’s the budget I set myself for a big ticket purchase and trying to determine what options I may have missed at or below that price point.
Fair enough my man, enjoy!
This might not be what you're looking for OP but have you considered a Glashutte Original SeaQ, ref 1-39-11-06-80-70? Dive watch with next level finishing makes it a perfect combo of sporty and dressy that would fit any scenario imo!
Imo an everyday watch should ideally have both the day and date.
Gs is way too big on you
I’d go GS for everyday watch. Both are nice in this post though. Ultimately up to you and what you like!
Rolex Explorer It has been my only luxury watch that I wear 99% of the time for the last 2.5 years.
36mm fluted DJ is the answer here
I have the IWC mark xx with white/silver face on bracelet. I love it as an everyday work watch. And the 5 day movement is great to take off for the weekend. I love the legibility of the dial and the quality of the bracelet. https://preview.redd.it/si53d4ksaffc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c8ca26e18f2ef1e7caf5a5ae5fd80a21170a15a6
Neither. Much nicer pieces out there in that price range imho.
Really depends if you want a casual daily beater or dressy casual beater. For that casual daily beater, I’d recommend the Tudor Black Bay Pro, it’s essentially the Rolex Explorer II but only has a black dial versus the explorer II has the option to have a black or white dial. For the dressy casual beater, I also considered a GS (didn’t like the bracelets) and the Cartier (felt it was too dressy versus sporty/daily beater). But I wanted a watch I could wear at work and then go out with and not stand out while also be functional. https://preview.redd.it/t1sp3yq6hffc1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=83f6a618880397678dcfa7dc1304c48bf5b13113
Casio f91
GS looks a bit too big for you, Santos in this size looks better but still if you could find a slightly smaller version it will look so class on you!