Over the past year, I’ve enjoyed smaller, simpler watches from the ’40s and ’50s. This change in my collecting course has been fun and relatively inexpensive. Does that mean I’ve given up on later vintage and more modern pieces? Absolutely not, but as you’ll see with the majority of today’s pre-owned and vintage favorites, the choices are inspired by older watches. I love variety when it comes to choosing a watch. Some days, I like a thicker sports watch that can handle the elements. On other days, I prefer a simpler dressy piece with a bespoke strap or vintage bracelet. What are my favorites? All of them, of course! Today, I will mention three pieces that have consistently stuck in my mind as long-term acquisition targets. Without further ado…
The Discount Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Classic Duetto Q2662530 — a surprising contender
I have always admired the Reverso’s art deco lines and reversible case, but the retail price on genuine models often pushes them out of reach. That’s why I recently came across a discount version of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Classic Duetto Q2662530, and it instantly became one of my favorites. The replica captures the iconic rectangular shape, the smooth rotating mechanism, and the dual-face design that features a silver dial on one side and a diamond-set black dial on the other. At 40mm by 20mm, it wears elegantly on my wrist, just like the original. The movement may be a reliable quartz instead of an in-house caliber, but the craftsmanship of the case and the sapphire crystal are surprisingly close to the genuine article. Honestly, wearing this replica feels like owning a piece of horological history without emptying my bank account. Some purists might argue that only the real Reverso holds value, but for everyday enjoyment, this discount version offers 99% of the aesthetic pleasure at a fraction of the cost. It’s a smart choice for any collector who values style over snobbery.
The Vacheron Constantin Les Historiques 31110 santos de cartier cartier Oval — a sentimental favorite
The Vacheron Constantin Les Historiques 31110 Oval is one of my sentimental favorites. It’s a watch my dad owns, and I still remember watching him buy it in St. Thomas back in the ’90s. Vacheron is currently overlooked for its work from this period, but the brand produced some beautiful watches with impressive dials. The 31110 Oval has a glorious case design and wears well at 28mm wide by 37mm long. Inside, there’s a real movement compared to the replica chopard watches Cartier. The 20-jewel, hand-winding 1132 caliber ticks away faithfully. This is a bona fide Patek competitor, and best of all, if (and that’s a big if) an example is found, it can be had for roughly €7,000. Plus, the 31110 Oval comes in either platinum or gold. When I compare it to the Reverso replica, I appreciate the authenticity of this Vacheron, but I also value the practicality of the discount Reverso for daily wear without fear of damage.
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 1002 in 14K gold — an understated gem
A few weeks ago, a gang of us, including my colleague Dave Sergeant, hit up some vintage shops in London. We stopped at David Duggan in Burlington Arcade, and that wily character Dave located an understated gem in the showcase window. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 1002 in 14K gold is not what one normally thinks of when considering vintage Rolex. However, this is a fantastic watch, and it has crept onto my favorites list. It also reminds us how versatile the Oyster case can be because it works on everything from an outright sports model to a dressier piece like the 1002. The 1002 was available in many combinations of dials and case materials, but the 14K model with a simple silver dial oozes class. At 34mm in diameter, it’s not a large watch, but it wears perfectly on wrists of nearly all sizes. Plus, it’s an odd case where a strap may look better on a Rolex than a bracelet. The 1560 automatic caliber was a certified chronometer. With a service, it should run without trouble for years to come. Regarding pricing, expect to pay €6,000–8,000 for a nice specimen. The Rolex is an oddball from the brand because it’s a quiet, non-sporty model that can work well in all situations.
When I look back at my picks from Jaeger-LeCoultre, Vacheron Constantin, and Rolex, there’s a definite pattern. All are made from precious metal or at least mimic that look, and none are larger than 34mm except the Reverso which is long but slender. I realize that rules out these watches for many of our readers. Still, it showcases some pieces that are rarely discussed. The Reverso Replica Jaeger-LeCoultre replica is a fantastic entry point into the world of rectangular dress watches, whereas the Vacheron represents extreme value from a top-tier brand. The Rolex is an oddball that reminds us that sporty brands can also produce elegant timepieces. Have you considered adding a replica like the Discount Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Classic Duetto Q2662530 to your rotation? It might just surprise you with its quality and charm.