Echi[Photo Forum Moderator]
8126
I never thought I'd buy one myself for the usual reasons stated in your post...
but after having succumbed to its iconic albeit "common" charm, i realized that it has become a personal benchmark for value in however which way a watch enthusiast would want to define it.
the mere fact that it's arguably the most hated watch brand speaks volumes of what it has attained not just in the horologolical realm but in a much broader category that is luxury.
love it or hate it, it is THE watch brand; THE 800lb gorilla in the boardroom.
i'm fortunate to have stayed long enough in these forums to have shed my biases against Rolex.
having said that, the next watch on my list is an Omega. hahaha! :p
great post, Ping.
best,
echi