My first big watch purchase.

I've owned Fossil and I've owned Citizen. Macy's Kiosk specials, basically. Great watches when I had them, but I wanted something that would give me a sense of pride of ownership and so when I decided I wanted a new watch after not having bought one in the last 10+ years, I came here to do some research.

I came in thinking maybe $200 or $300 sounded reasonable. Started with looking at Citizen Eco-Drive and Seiko. Liked what I saw but wasn't entirely satisfied with what was available in the price range I set.

Did some research. Decided on Automatic over Quartz. Looked at options a bit above my initial range. Found the Hamilton Khaki line and was pretty set on that for a few days until I read complaint after complaint on the poor WR and AR used. Seemed like a bad value for a "field" watch.

Decided to do some more research. Realized I don't specifically need a field watch. Goalposts continued to move as I dove in further. Began looking at various watches to expand my knowledge on what is available.

Enter the 2023 Longines Conquest. It's exactly what I wanted aesthetically. Great history. Quality components. Really haven't been able to find a single complaint about it. Nearly 10x above my initial price range coming in, but I have zero regrets on it. I've heard some people say Longines has fallen from grace compared to their past because the prices are now "low" in the luxury realm, but I can only think that I am so glad that this watch is under $2k because I think it looks nicer than any $5k watch I've come across. Maybe part of my bias is growing up in the Metro Detroit area with a father who made a career in the automotive industry. Reminds me of a really nice hubcap with beautiful spokes.

Anyway, I just wanted to share my journey from the perspective of someone going in knowing basically nothing about watches. I dont think I'll be buying another one for a while. I already spend too much on guns and tobacco pipes. But I am grateful to have access to a community of enthusiasts here who could help provide guidance, even if indirect, and so here is the result!