JLC Amvox1 or something else: Advice for 8k budget

[tom_hanx]

The Amvox1 has been on my grail list since I can remember. I am finally in a position to buy one but, as usual, this calls the question "what else is there in the same range?".

Currently those float around 8k with box + papers in mint condition, often times in LNIB condition (both steel and titanium version in size 42mm)

Some pictures borrowed off the intertubes (PuristS and Momist)







So, fellow members - what do you think is worth considering inside this bracket? No Rolex, pls - vintage or modern, none "talk" to me.

Cheers

[pukematrixx]

What are you looking for specifically in your next timepiece. This is really a gorgeous watch, I had one on before buying my Master Calendar. The one I had on had orange in the dial where the silver is above it really is a great looking watch, IMO one of JLC's best looking pieces.

[tom_hanx]

What are you looking for specifically in your next timepiece. This is really a gorgeous watch, I had one on before buying my Master Calendar. The one I had on had orange in the dial where the silver is above it really is a great looking watch, IMO one of JLC's best looking pieces.

Hours, minutes, seconds + date is the minimum I seek. The alarm function here + the history behind are excellent additions. Not to mention the gorgeous and distinctive dial, hands, case and crowns...

The only (other) complication I like is jumping hour but within this budget there is nothing memorable or in-house. Baume&Mercier have a Dubois Depraz jump hour movement for ~6k new but to my mind, B&M should not even be mentioned in the same paragraph with JLC.

The watch should be versatile - suitable for the office and the weekend. I have already a designated dress plus a sportier El Primero. Will soon buy a G-shock for all times when my pieces may be at risk: salt water, travel to higher crime countries, etc. It should be from one of the "old school" brands, as most of the modern I like are far outside my budget (MB&F LM1, DeBethune DB28, etc).

The Amvox1 fits the bill well, you might say I am doing my due diligence before I drop the cash ATM it is 90% sure it will be my next but as someone who is always learning, am open to other/better recommendations. Have already tried and ruled out the following:

- VC Overseas: despite AWESOME bracelet, this one is in dire need of refresh, seems dated and not in the legendary sense of the word;
- AP 15400ST: much better sized (for me) than the 15300ST but just doesn't feel comfy on the wrist (personal, *highly* subjective statement, do not shoot)

Hope this gives you pointers on the path walked so far; happy to read your thoughts and ideas

[pukematrixx]

Hours, minutes, seconds + date is the minimum I seek. The alarm function here + the history behind are excellent additions. Not to mention the gorgeous and distinctive dial, hands, case and crowns...

The only (other) complication I like is jumping hour but within this budget there is nothing memorable or in-house. Baume&Mercier have a Dubois Depraz jump hour movement for ~6k new but to my mind, B&M should not even be mentioned in the same paragraph with JLC.

The watch should be versatile - suitable for the office and the weekend. I have already a designated dress plus a sportier El Primero. Will soon buy a G-shock for all times when my pieces may be at risk: salt water, travel to higher crime countries, etc. It should be from one of the "old school" brands, as most of the modern I like are far outside my budget (MB&F LM1, DeBethune DB28, etc).

The Amvox1 fits the bill well, you might say I am doing my due diligence before I drop the cash ATM it is 90% sure it will be my next but as someone who is always learning, am open to other/better recommendations. Have already tried and ruled out the following:

- VC Overseas: despite AWESOME bracelet, this one is in dire need of refresh, seems dated and not in the legendary sense of the word;
- AP 15400ST: much better sized (for me) than the 15300ST but just doesn't feel comfy on the wrist (personal, *highly* subjective statement, do not shoot)

Hope this gives you pointers on the path walked so far; happy to read your thoughts and ideas

Hmm, I'm struggling with this. See if you didn't have a dress watch, I'd suggest the GO Panorama Date but I don't think it's as sporty as this since the face is not as "fun". Chopard LUC Quattro Mark II is an interesting watch but slightly out of your range, same for the BP 50 fathoms (which is another stunner IMO). I think perhaps you found the one that fits the exact bill you are trying to fill!

[bar2020]

"- VC Overseas: despite AWESOME bracelet, this one is in dire need of refresh, seems dated and not in the legendary sense of the word; "

I really like the Overseas, and I think it is a bargain at that price point. That version has been around for 8 years, so maybe it will get a little updating in the next few years, but then it will certainly be out of the budget. I dont get the impression of it looking dated, but I guess it's subjective. Why isnt the FF or royal oak considered dated? I'm curious to see what others suggest, since I can't think of something better than the VC or a JLC.

[mikeyc]

"- VC Overseas: despite AWESOME bracelet, this one is in dire need of refresh, seems dated and not in the legendary sense of the word; "

I really like the Overseas, and I think it is a bargain at that price point. That version has been around for 8 years, so maybe it will get a little updating in the next few years, but then it will certainly be out of the budget. I dont get the impression of it looking dated, but I guess it's subjective. Why isnt the FF or royal oak considered dated? I'm curious to see what others suggest, since I can't think of something better than the VC or a JLC.

IMO the RO looks like its still stuck in 80's with its clunky styling. OTOH I can't ever imagine that the FF will ever look dated, it has such an iconic look and is the quinetessential diving watch, with that ceramic bezel its just to die for....

[emmanuelgoldstein]

A tad over your budget but worth a look Jaeger-LeCoultre Deep Sea Chronograph witn a JLC caliber 758. The retail is 10.8K, but I am sure it could be had for less.

[pukematrixx]

A tad over your budget but worth a look Jaeger-LeCoultre Deep Sea Chronograph witn a JLC caliber 758. The retail is 10.8K, but I am sure it could be had for less.

no date...

[mikeyc]

What about this one? Or the plain Jane Master Control Memovox?

[tom_hanx]

The Polaris is 17.5mm thick because of the plexi dome, whereas the sapphire Amvox is a hair under 15mm, making it a bit more wearable.

To all above questions on OS, FF, etc - it *is* a highly subjective matter: in my eyes the FF is a remake of an old legend which died and was resuscitated by new owners I dislike (swatch group). OTOH, lets not forget, the Overseas is just a three-hand with date window with a caliber which came from JLC long time ago. Cannot use the word "bargain" on the Overseas either but this is me. Again, super-subjective and perhaps to many the exact opposite of their beliefs.

I am facing another decision at the moment, which I need your help with:

Karma must have smiled at me, as I found an AD who has one brand new piece (never left the boutique). Trouble with it - has no matching box. The dealer (a good friend of a friend of a friend... long story) is willing to let this go for nearly 35% off MSRP but, again, it will not be a full set. I can go hunt for a full set, and there are a few, but those circle the 25% off mark for mint condition (i.e. worn) pieces.

So, what would you guys do:
a) brand new, factory warranty, at 35% off - drawback is, no box / not full set;
b) used/mint with no warranty, at 25% off - drawback is, no warranty and higher price.