I think Frederique Constant is without a doubt, hands down, the best affordable Swiss Luxury Brand on the market. The Highlife has it all...and its a Chronometer.
Also would have to give a nod to the Bell & Ross BR-05 certainly an original design, and in my opinion better quality than some of the other watches on that list can be had for around $3000-$3500 used. I do still prefer the Tudor though all things considered.
I would also have added the Omega Constellation which is one of my favorite designs of integrated bracelet watches which is also fairly original in design. Incredibly comfortable bracelet as well.
I had the same problem for some years. Seen the FC, the Tissot, the ML Aikon, the Baume et Mercier Riviera, the Zenith Defy, the Bell&Ross... but I settled for that Tudor Royal in blue dial (still, became divided with the silver dial). Such a great watch, great design. Ty Bruce. Keep up the good work!
I looked at every integrated bracelet watch in this category and bought the Wempe Iron Walker Automatic. Unbelievable watch. Heavy, solid, and after trying on a PRX, there is no comparison. Try Wempe, which is also a chronometer. You won’t be disappointed.
I just got a PRX a couple months ago and love it, but I hadn’t heard of the Wempe. Where were you two months ago? 😠 EDIT; just looked it up, thats a nice looking piece
I owned the Maurice Lacroix Aikon 39mm briefly and actually found it too small for me. I think it actually wears on the smaller side compared to other 39mm watches such as a Tudor BB58 or even a Hamilton Khaki mechanical 38mm. The lug to lug on the Maurice Lacroix is on the shorter side which makes it wear this way. I’m very intrigued about the 42mm version tho.
The baume and merceir Riviera would be an awesome pick so is the prx and imo the aikon which I'm probably biased towards as a owner of one but it's a very good watch for 1300 euros or whatever I paid.
My wrist size is 6.25" and the ML aikon 39mm looks great on wrist. The light play on the aikon bracelet is phenomenal if not the best of all my watches at equivalent price
@@clybee8328 I think the Tudor Royal is one of those watches that people write off too quickly. It's so full of character and and strikes a very uncommon balance between brute sportiness and elegant beauty. Truly one of a kind.
@@chinwengkeong I wholeheartedly agree. When I was at the boutique, even the SA was trying to sell the black bay 36 in two tone instead, and told me the Tudor Royal has an outdated design. I was taken aback with such statement, and I said I must have an old soul then cos I really like the Tudor Royal.
“It’s not meant to be put on a stupid nato” 🤣That will put the cat among the pigeons. I have to agree though. Re the watches: Pelton or Zenith win by a margin imo. Both stunning but they are pricey and the Pelton would probably only work well on larger wrists. Good luck with the decision Steve!
Don't like the whole GGenta 70s style myself. My suggestion would be the Tudor North Flag (gutted it was dropped, by far the best Tudor so far imho... & they seem to be appreciating too) Whatever you choose enjoy it & have a Happy Birthday Steve (from another Steve in England) 🎂👍🏻
After owning two of the watches reviewed , the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 , and the Frederique Constant Highlife , I think the FC Highlife is the better choice . It is super comfortable on the rist , feels and looks higher quality . However , I do find myself attracted to the PRX and put it on from time to time . I don't like the PRX bracelet too much , as I feel there is still a lot to be done to improve its comfort levels .
Omega Constellation Double Eagle Perpetual Calendar 38mm. I picked one up for £1300 last year, fresh brttery change from Omega, insane accuracy, brilliant quality, looks way more expensive than it is. The beauty of pre owned!
Great selection you made!! If only Zenith decided to make something like a 38mm Defy, I would definitely run to the first AD available to buy it. I have a reserved empty spot in my watch box...
I've only seen one of these watches in the flesh at the AD and I went home with it. The PRX PM80 automatic blue dial is stunning for the price as is the finishing.
Nice video (as always), Bruce! You could add an ultra-budget alternative like the Casio Edifice EFR-S108D-7av to your list. In my opinion also the Wempe Iron Walker is worth considering.
You missed the Pagani Design 1673 AP Royal Oak Homage. Saph crystal, NH35 movement, fully milled bracelet, signed crown. All with Amazon Prime next day shipping out the door for $125!!!!
Prx looks like a great watch for the money, thanks for posting this saw some watches I've never checked out before. Would you consider putting a Ball on this list? Not sure where the engineer 2 magneto fits into this but its my favorite right now
I have the PRX, but really like the Frederique Constant Highlife and the Maurice La Croix. The Zenith and Pelton are out of my price bracket. Another watch in the PRX price range is from Direnzo Mondial made in Switzerland, Selita higher end movement. Several color choices and a microbrand. ( bought it early and was cheaper than now} 720CF. I have seen your review and got the pre order price.
I just brought in the PRX quartz. First off, wow. The watch is fantastic and its build is well above its AD discount price near $300. Honestly, this thing deserved to be quartz. At $600 with a 80hr PR, I think there are better options. But quartz? Yes plz.
I got my prx pm 80 for $520 I cannot think of any watch that can compete with it at the price range. It easily could be priced higher and still be close to best in its class. Incredibly impressive watch. .. I’m really looking to buy the Maurice aikon
The thing with me with the Tissot is that the second hand did not line up with a marker each time it ticked . It was always just off/short. That sounds so pernikerty I know but no just no. Enjoyed the vid.
Hiya.Hear what you said but if you look at a regular mechanical watch in slow mo does the second hand ever actually tick the markers dead on.? No.Quartz just makes it more obvious because of its 1 tick per sec.Its very difficult to do either way.Thanks.
Solid video and list s always 👌 I have been eyeing out that powermatic 80 PRX for quite some time but .... not sure if I could stop my self from wearing my Gshocks 😉
A bit late to the party but obviously pre owned now an old rolex oysterquatz was integrated( in fact the only time they used integrated bracelets) and to me still look good.Had one many moons ago but gave into an offer a workmate offered me to buy it from me.Daft move looking back.
The Bell & Ross BR05 is an option. So is the Oris Propilot x, though it’s more of an integrated look, vs a real integrated bracelet. I don’t know the prices on these but I think they may be close
Used Omega Constellation Double Eagle Co-Axial are nice. But I am biased since I have a guilty crush for the Constellation line... The ref. 1503.51.00 could be an option...
@steve: Personally, the Tissot has the cleanest design, which in my opinion will keep you interested longer in this watch. The wearing comfort -provided you have the right size wrist- is just exemplary, which again will surprise you and might make you wear the watch much more than you can anticipate. But as always try it first…
I personally own the Frédérique Constant Highlife Redbar and the Tissot PRX. I love them both, but while the PRX punches much higher than that $650 price, the Highlife is much nicer watch. I was torn between the Highlife and the Tudor Royal though. Ultimately, at the price point and strap options, I bought the Highlife.
Started this video thinking "Why no Defy Classic?" :D I'd get Zenith over FC over Tudor here. Really want to see the FC with the new monolithic movement, that would be siiiick. Tissot it the obvious choice here for more budget oriented.
A crying shame that the Girard Perregaux 38mm Laureato has appreciated so strongly in recent years. I would stay away from PRX because unfortunately they use the cheapest ETA C07.111 movement. It would be much better if they used the C07.811, a movement without plastic parts and that can be adjusted by a watchmaker in a future service job. Zenith Defy all day long!
Tissot uses the upgraded version with the Nivachron balance spring. Very resistant against magnetic fields. And there are no plastic parts in it. None. It really is an update to the 2824-2, had dozens of watches with it feom Tissot, Certina, Mido, Hamilton, no problem over the years. And no problem regulating it for a trained watchmaker.
@@jrgdrumsandwatches Hi, there, I'm not talking about the hair spring.There are some variations of this movement: Powermatic 80 80.111 and Powematic Silcium 80 80.811 are most common. . The 80.111 is the one with polymer (plastic) escapement fork and wheel and has only 23 jewels instead of 25 due to the escapement fork being synthetic and not containing jewels or adjusters. The powermatic 80.811 silicium has 25 jewels, adjusters, metal escapement fork and wheels. Rather than just servicing the 23 jewels version Tissot-Swatch will instead order an entirely brand new replacement and just swap it out for $200-250 or less. It's an entry-level mass-produced movement. Mido and Hamilton use the 25 jewels version, but some Certina models use the 23 jewels, just like Tissot, it will depend on the model. Tissot gentleman for example uses the 25 jewels.
Not mine. Hits every marker perfectly. The thing is if you want to be shure it does there's no other way than look at it before buying. I got lucky. They had 3 in store, all of them lined up perfectly.
I think Frederique Constant is without a doubt, hands down, the best affordable Swiss Luxury Brand on the market. The Highlife has it all...and its a Chronometer.
The Zenith Defy blue dial is amazing 💙💙💙
Tudor North Flag is JUST outside his price range. It's a beauty!!
+1 but discontinued now.
Probably the best of the bunch
Also would have to give a nod to the Bell & Ross BR-05 certainly an original design, and in my opinion better quality than some of the other watches on that list can be had for around $3000-$3500 used. I do still prefer the Tudor though all things considered.
I would also have added the Omega Constellation which is one of my favorite designs of integrated bracelet watches which is also fairly original in design. Incredibly comfortable bracelet as well.
I had the same problem for some years. Seen the FC, the Tissot, the ML Aikon, the Baume et Mercier Riviera, the Zenith Defy, the Bell&Ross... but I settled for that Tudor Royal in blue dial (still, became divided with the silver dial). Such a great watch, great design. Ty Bruce. Keep up the good work!
I’m feeling the ML Aikon rn - was originally going to grab the PRX
I looked at every integrated bracelet watch in this category and bought the Wempe Iron Walker Automatic. Unbelievable watch. Heavy, solid, and after trying on a PRX, there is no comparison. Try Wempe, which is also a chronometer. You won’t be disappointed.
I just got a PRX a couple months ago and love it, but I hadn’t heard of the Wempe. Where were you two months ago? 😠
EDIT; just looked it up, thats a nice looking piece
I owned the Maurice Lacroix Aikon 39mm briefly and actually found it too small for me. I think it actually wears on the smaller side compared to other 39mm watches such as a Tudor BB58 or even a Hamilton Khaki mechanical 38mm. The lug to lug on the Maurice Lacroix is on the shorter side which makes it wear this way. I’m very intrigued about the 42mm version tho.
Have purchased the FC " highlife" and it's gorgeous for the price point. Was lucky enough to see the blue Zenith in person and that is off the charts!
The baume and merceir Riviera would be an awesome pick so is the prx and imo the aikon which I'm probably biased towards as a owner of one but it's a very good watch for 1300 euros or whatever I paid.
My wrist size is 6.25" and the ML aikon 39mm looks great on wrist. The light play on the aikon bracelet is phenomenal if not the best of all my watches at equivalent price
The Archimede Outdoor 39 is a really sharp tough integrated bracelet that has hardened steel . Nice german watch
I have one and love the size, Ickler case, and dial layout. I also loathe the integrated bracelet but I will not part with the watch.
The highlife is the best imo, amazing looking piece
Was expecting to see the Formex Essence in there as well. The F.C. is a real looker though. Great video!
No Bell & Ross?
Formex Essence would be my pick
That Tudor Royal and Zenith Defy are the nicest of all the options.
Agree! I tried on the Tudor Royal today at the boutique, and I love how light and comfortable it was. Zenith is so beautiful!
@@clybee8328 I think the Tudor Royal is one of those watches that people write off too quickly. It's so full of character and and strikes a very uncommon balance between brute sportiness and elegant beauty. Truly one of a kind.
@@chinwengkeong I wholeheartedly agree. When I was at the boutique, even the SA was trying to sell the black bay 36 in two tone instead, and told me the Tudor Royal has an outdated design. I was taken aback with such statement, and I said I must have an old soul then cos I really like the Tudor Royal.
“It’s not meant to be put on a stupid nato” 🤣That will put the cat among the pigeons. I have to agree though.
Re the watches: Pelton or Zenith win by a margin imo. Both stunning but they are pricey and the Pelton would probably only work well on larger wrists. Good luck with the decision Steve!
Don't like the whole GGenta 70s style myself. My suggestion would be the Tudor North Flag (gutted it was dropped, by far the best Tudor so far imho... & they seem to be appreciating too)
Whatever you choose enjoy it & have a Happy Birthday Steve (from another Steve in England) 🎂👍🏻
After owning two of the watches reviewed , the Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 , and the Frederique Constant Highlife , I think the FC Highlife is the better choice . It is super comfortable on the rist , feels and looks higher quality . However , I do find myself attracted to the PRX and put it on from time to time . I don't like the PRX bracelet too much , as I feel there is still a lot to be done to improve its comfort levels .
Bruce, good 👍 job on the video advice 👏. Steve, I suggest you do whatever you want with your own money 😀.
Omega Constellation Double Eagle Perpetual Calendar 38mm. I picked one up for £1300 last year, fresh brttery change from Omega, insane accuracy, brilliant quality, looks way more expensive than it is. The beauty of pre owned!
Nice for show the tudor caliber !
Great selection you made!! If only Zenith decided to make something like a 38mm Defy, I would definitely run to the first AD available to buy it. I have a reserved empty spot in my watch box...
I’ve even waiting for a Perseus for over a year now.
I've only seen one of these watches in the flesh at the AD and I went home with it. The PRX PM80 automatic blue dial is stunning for the price as is the finishing.
Nice video (as always), Bruce!
You could add an ultra-budget alternative like the Casio Edifice EFR-S108D-7av to your list.
In my opinion also the Wempe Iron Walker is worth considering.
You missed the Pagani Design 1673 AP Royal Oak Homage. Saph crystal, NH35 movement, fully milled bracelet, signed crown. All with Amazon Prime next day shipping out the door for $125!!!!
Man, I'm glad someone agrees with me with the nato straps. Some watch's aesthetics are ruined with some random strap that someone though looked good.
Prx looks like a great watch for the money, thanks for posting this saw some watches I've never checked out before. Would you consider putting a Ball on this list? Not sure where the engineer 2 magneto fits into this but its my favorite right now
I have the PRX, but really like the Frederique Constant Highlife and the Maurice La Croix. The Zenith and Pelton are out of my price bracket. Another watch in the PRX price range is from Direnzo Mondial made in Switzerland, Selita higher end movement. Several color choices and a microbrand. ( bought it early and was cheaper than now} 720CF. I have seen your review and got the pre order price.
I just brought in the PRX quartz. First off, wow. The watch is fantastic and its build is well above its AD discount price near $300. Honestly, this thing deserved to be quartz. At $600 with a 80hr PR, I think there are better options. But quartz? Yes plz.
I got my prx pm 80 for $520 I cannot think of any watch that can compete with it at the price range. It easily could be priced higher and still be close to best in its class. Incredibly impressive watch. .. I’m really looking to buy the Maurice aikon
Can't wait the Highlife Worldtimer depreciates!! What a killer looker.
The thing with me with the Tissot is that the second hand did not line up with a marker each time it ticked . It was always just off/short. That sounds so pernikerty I know but no just no. Enjoyed the vid.
Hiya.Hear what you said but if you look at a regular mechanical watch in slow mo does the second hand ever actually tick the markers dead on.? No.Quartz just makes it more obvious because of its 1 tick per sec.Its very difficult to do either way.Thanks.
Solid video and list s always 👌 I have been eyeing out that powermatic 80 PRX for quite some time but .... not sure if I could stop my self from wearing my Gshocks 😉
A bit late to the party but obviously pre owned now an old rolex oysterquatz was integrated( in fact the only time they used integrated bracelets) and to me still look good.Had one many moons ago but gave into an offer a workmate offered me to buy it from me.Daft move looking back.
One from the Baume & Mercier Riviera range.
Hi. Bruce
What is your view on the longines conquest in black 43mm?
The Fred.Const.'s bracelet has links with an oval profile. That's same I personally always tend towards. But I've never had one in hand.
The Bell & Ross BR05 is an option. So is the Oris Propilot x, though it’s more of an integrated look, vs a real integrated bracelet. I don’t know the prices on these but I think they may be close
The Frederique Constant would be my choice. Elegant dial too. Suggestion: future video on the masterpiece collection from Maurice Lacroix?
I would opt for the Frederique Constant. The case is elegant in its curves.
In the affordable category I’d suggest the Citizen NJ0150’s, just beautiful
The new maen hudson looks awesome
Used Omega Constellation Double Eagle Co-Axial are nice. But I am biased since I have a guilty crush for the Constellation line... The ref. 1503.51.00 could be an option...
Another informative vid brother.
My suggestion, and a shame it was forgotten, is the Direnzo drz04
@steve: Personally, the Tissot has the cleanest design, which in my opinion will keep you interested longer in this watch. The wearing comfort -provided you have the right size wrist- is just exemplary, which again will surprise you and might make you wear the watch much more than you can anticipate. But as always try it first…
That Zenith though…..🔥
I personally own the Frédérique Constant Highlife Redbar and the Tissot PRX. I love them both, but while the PRX punches much higher than that $650 price, the Highlife is much nicer watch. I was torn between the Highlife and the Tudor Royal though. Ultimately, at the price point and strap options, I bought the Highlife.
The Tissot second hand, does not line up with the second markers at 3.10. I could not cope with that.
Bell and ross br05 is nice
awesome video! you should no a skeleton version of this type of video. That would fit the halloween theme pretty well!
Zenith is a beauty
Casio oceanus to me is the best bang per buck. And most have integrated bracelet.
Started this video thinking "Why no Defy Classic?" :D
I'd get Zenith over FC over Tudor here. Really want to see the FC with the new monolithic movement, that would be siiiick.
Tissot it the obvious choice here for more budget oriented.
Zenith is my favorite watch
My vote goes to the FC, the Wempe Iron Walker is another cool one 😅
Royal is the King in this segment and any segment sub 3K.
Not one with a micro adjustment clasp
Anyone else bothered by the seconds hand on the PRX not lining up with the markers/indices?
Aikon FTW
Bell&Ross BR 05
Wearing your Halloween costume for this video? Tissot PRX!
ML all the time!
A crying shame that the Girard Perregaux 38mm Laureato has appreciated so strongly in recent years. I would stay away from PRX because unfortunately they use the cheapest ETA C07.111 movement. It would be much better if they used the C07.811, a movement without plastic parts and that can be adjusted by a watchmaker in a future service job. Zenith Defy all day long!
Tissot uses the upgraded version with the Nivachron balance spring. Very resistant against magnetic fields. And there are no plastic parts in it. None. It really is an update to the 2824-2, had dozens of watches with it feom Tissot, Certina, Mido, Hamilton, no problem over the years. And no problem regulating it for a trained watchmaker.
@@jrgdrumsandwatches Hi, there, I'm not talking about the hair spring.There are some variations of this movement: Powermatic 80 80.111 and Powematic Silcium 80 80.811 are most common. . The 80.111 is the one with polymer (plastic) escapement fork and wheel and has only 23 jewels instead of 25 due to the escapement fork being synthetic and not containing jewels or adjusters. The powermatic 80.811 silicium has 25 jewels, adjusters, metal escapement fork and wheels. Rather than just servicing the 23 jewels version Tissot-Swatch will instead order an entirely brand new replacement and just swap it out for $200-250 or less. It's an entry-level mass-produced movement. Mido and Hamilton use the 25 jewels version, but some Certina models use the 23 jewels, just like Tissot, it will depend on the model. Tissot gentleman for example uses the 25 jewels.
Wempe Iron Walker Automatic
tissot second hand is out of alignment
Not mine. Hits every marker perfectly. The thing is if you want to be shure it does there's no other way than look at it before buying. I got lucky. They had 3 in store, all of them lined up perfectly.
@@jrgdrumsandwatches That and he was showing the quartz movement as a stand in for the automatic.
Forgot the most abivous,Oris Aquis easy can be bought under 3k.
zenith non skeleton =best