Horological Meandering

Some others have highlight the VFA’s above, but these days those watches may no longer meet your criteria for a price ceiling of $10k.

I’ve never chased the VFA, instead the next level down was something I’d sought (the GS “Special”, still regulated tighter than the normal watches of that time, but not quite to VFA standards).

I’ve often worn these watches to larger group meet ups, with two intentions informing that decision.  First, these are of lower value which means less “risk” for me among strangers and in public places (note, this was a consideration for me for more than a decade and not just in recent years with the various scary stories).  Second these were unpretentious and approachable watches and so they opened up conversations with all types of collectors and enthusiasts at these events. 

They also had the added benefit of identifying the bullshit artists and hype merchants at these events.  If someone wasn’t interested in talking to me with a $1000 vintage GS on my wrist then I knew I wouldn’t give them the time of day when I had something “more” on my wrist the next time I may meet them.  This proved to be a very good filter and I saved myself many future encounters with a certain type of buyer. 

I also think my Habring is a good modern example of a watch that fits your criteria.  

Here’s some of those vintage GS.  Two “Specials” and one regular. 

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