Independents

Other than Moser (and Journe although that's borderline) do we have any other options? Something nicely finished and interesting that would stand up to my daily abuse would be perfect.

I forgot that! I'll have to read up a bit more on it.

That's a lovely watch.

Here is one example and it looks much better in real life when you put it on your wrist. ...  

I have a Metrographe on a strap. Versatile watch.

Too large for my wrist and taste, but this would be a solidly finished daily beater that can be found at a good price. And nuce dial colors too, if you‘re in for it. Best, Daniel

Certainly a solid option. Truth be told, I had completely overlooked Parmigiani while pondering this. Stay well.

Very attractive! I also really like that it doesn't have the usual Genta/RO design cues

I do have a couple of the more normal RO's and they are reasonably nicely finished but I've never handled an ROO. I think I need to rectify that shortcoming in the future.

Let me ask you what you are looking for in this sports watch? Water resistance? Shock resistance? A scratch-proof case? A super light material? All four? Once you have narrowed it down, the fun part of the search starts

You were being humorous and it was taken in that spirit. As for what I need, that's a tad complicated. I run, bike, row and climb mountains and hunt for amusement. I climb mountains and drill rock for work, although not as frequently now as I used to. My ... 

I’m gonna be burned on the stake for saying this, but independent watches are two high maintenance for such a life, and will only hold you back. Rolexes (with the explorer 1) being aptly named) and [maybe] a blancpain fifty fathoms are the best options, I... 

And I would feel bad about beating up a finely wrought piece of wrist art. The Aquanaut is long gone but here are a few of the current work watches: ...  

DeBethune has a few models that might be considered sporty, certainly unique designs. Girard Perregaux?

of most De Bethunes but indeed I had forgotten their diver. I'll have a closer look at that, thanks. The GP's I've seen recently leave a bit to be desired where finish is concerned.

Both brands make finely-finished divers, but most users would never take them into the water ...  

I had forgotten the MB&F. That said, it doesn't really appeal much to me. I do need to look into the DB.

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The Pita is interesting. I'm not sure if the Habring would be tough enough for some of my use. I do have a Foudroyante and I tend not to wear it that much.

Indeed, they should offer the Foudroyante in a somewhat smaller case, as well. It is a tad oversized even for my relatively large wrist. Stay well.

The Moser does look very interesting, but you’ve mentioned that. Do you think Urwerk could pass as a sports watch? Bracelets available. I find my 105 to be pretty robust, no bracelet option though, and most people think it’s a Garmin so that’s a validatio... 

I'm the opposite of an RM fan (although I love APRP's work), but I have to admit, they make durable watches for wearing anywhere.

Although I really don't like them but do perhaps fit the purpose.

But, no doubt in my mind that they are the kings of modern sports watches.

I would have thought there would be more entrants in this field. I like the Urwerks a lot. I would want one but I would feel bad beating it up. The 105 is excellent!

How about De Bethune? One of the models with floating lugs so you have a super snug fit, light on the wrist and paired with a durable fabric strap.

is certainly in the running. Even if I might not want to use it for everything simply because of its workmanship, it would make a great daily use watch for most activities. I'll try to track one down once the lockdown eases and have a look.

Chopard Alpine Eagle… although the movement isn’t as “finished” as one would’ve hoped, since it isn’t a L.U.C. Chopard L.U.C. Sport 2000 or Pro One. Visible 4.96 movement on the former (with blackened rotor), solid case back on the latter. Chopard L.U.C. ... 

I certainly don't mind whether new or used and I will have to look into your suggestions. Much appreciated.

Truly, that had not occurred to me! I do remember one of their models was quite interesting. WIll have a look. Thanks buddy.

Cheers

with the Eterna movement.

I didn't realize that Czapek makes anything robust.

...  

but not tough enough, unfortunately.

A very very stoic watch to be sure. But very sturdy and I’ve found it a fun choice for the pool, running, gym, etc. ...  

Always found that watch to be very interesting. I'm not sure if it would fit my needs for work but it would be close to perfect for casual use.