Independents

tom_hanx
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How much for an "older" De Bethune? :)

Guys,

I thank you all for sharing with me. Must admit, some of the recommendations I already know, some are off to my taste (beauty is in the eye of the beholder) and some are out right intriguing!!!

Exactly how close am I to one of the "older" De Bethune models? Not sure if we can discuss pricing of pre-owned but I would very much like to know - if it is 2-3k away, then I will just hold and aim for one.

In random order of appearance:

Habring has been reviewed by fellow members in detail, so I am aware of the story behind it. While I understand that bringing affordable independent to the masses means cutting a few corners, the fit and finish (ONLY based on pictures, I have not handled one myself) appears inferior to similar other. Please consider this with a pinch of slat - I have not handled one myself, so may be gravely mistaken.

MIH - I know this is based off ETA 7750, so as all other is somewhat thick. Personally I draw the line at 12-13mm for case thickness, as other seem to tower in my eyes.

Paul Gerber - I admire the triple winding weight in the back but dial-wise none of the pieces spark emotion for me.

AP and PP - the models have been reviewed beautifully by Robert-Jan here forums.watchuseek.com
This review got me thinking - if both have started with JLC movements, and AP still is sporting one JLC licensed movement - wouldn't it be smarter to actually consider a JLC instead? I cannot think of a matching Genta design in the JLC portfolio but this may very well be attributed to my making first steps in the high-end segment. My current most expensive is the independent manufacture of Nomos (Zurich Datum).

Schauer - I automagically link him to Stowa and their truly affordable ETA-based pieces, which is a setback for me from a prestige/recognition point of view.

Benzinger has some good eye candy - I am not so much into skeleton or excessively decorated movements. Like my pieces clean and simple, although I must admit a beautiful guiloche can have me glued to a dial for hours

Kudoke is a new name for me - some of the models (like the Black Beauty) are nice but demanding on the eyes. As mentioned above, I am more of a classical boy, give me clean design lines, easy to read dials, and subtle craftsmanship...

BLU has some sexy lookers but event the Classics line is away from my route - regulateur, retrograde, etc - complications which I am not drawn to. I really wish to find me a high-end hour, minute, seconds, (optional) date. If I can score a high-end with these features, or throw in a marvellous sun-burst or guiloche dial on top, the merrier I shall be.

Hope you take above as truly personal POV, non-binding or trying to impose - first steps in the high-end bracket and trying to navigate my way around, so please forgive any stupid comments based on perception or lack of sufficient knowledge.

I welcome any and all recommendations or remarks, am open to any suggestions. Really appreciate your taking time to read my musings and lend some advice.

Cheers and have a great week ahead