One of those moments

[ed1990]

I'm currently having one of those wonderful dilemnas right now, trying to decide whether I should pull the trigger on a U1 or going the extra mile for a black dialed Aquatimer. What i'm a lil afraid of is the slightly less than favourable feedback on the Galapagos model and the fact that IWC doesnt really seem to take responsibility in such matters. Any comments would be much appreciated!

[streetracer101]

Personally, I'd go with a pre-loved U1 and then save a bit and trade it up for a IWC if you decide that's the route to take. The U1 is a killer deal for under $1350 used, but I'd never buy a new one since the value basically tanks right off the bat. I've never had an IWC (or seen one in person), but I think they look killer. However, the proprietary strap system would likely drive me nuts.

[citizenfox]

IWC FTW.

Sinn is cool. iWC is forever.

[E8ArmyDiver]

Absolutely LOVE the IWC Aquatimers but unless I hit the Lotto I'll probably never own one:

[pyiyha]

If I had the funds and was after an Aquatimer, I would look into AT 3536.
IMO, it is truly a classic design that will last the test of times...
Below is a link about its discussion.

GST Aquatimer--what were they thinking????

[Blue bird]

I used to own an Aquatimer 3548 and it was a great watch. It's not a chrono but a pre-owned one or the newer version might be a good option.

[HR F1]

If I were you, I'd go with the U1 first and if it doesn't work for you, it's an easy sell as it's usually in high demand on the used market and then go for the Aquatimer afterwards given the higher price. I really like my U1 as well as both of my 3568 Aquatimers; all are very wearable 44mm pieces.

In my opinion, the current generation Aquatimers are fantastic, and admittedly the design language is quite different from its more tool-looking predecessors, but I personally have always really liked the modern look and updates to the current models.

Additionally, my own experience with Richemont's service center with regards to IWC (JLC as well) have been nothing short of excellent; they have always been responsive and helpful with my random inquiries whether over the phone or through email, and with parts purchases and service.

With regards to the vulcanized rubber coating of the Galapagos, aside from the two owners who posted in the thread here on the WUS IWC forums, I've yet to read of any other owners on various other IWC forums who have experienced problems even remotely similar to theirs with regards to the durability of the rubber coating, so I'm not sure what the real story is regarding theirs and if there's more to it, or if it's just isolated quality control incidents with the particular ones they own.

In any event, the decision is of course, ultimately yours, so good luck with it as there's really not a bad choice here at all!

[Fomenko]

This is my AT 2000. I love it, and I wear it a lot... It's not cheap, but I think it's worth the price you pay for it, or almost there!! :)
I really like the black one, and for sure you will not regret it for one second if you choose it! Black dial looks better with the rubber band, IMO.
The Galapagos looks great, but these ones are bullet proof. Nothing to worry about with the Aquatimers!
Good luck with the one you choose...

[Hamsik]

If I'm you, I will buy U1 and keep long time!!

[ed1990]

im prob gonna buy it on a rubber strap. a lil concerned about how long it can last since i cant change to a 3rd party strap