And then there were two...

[Dubins930]

Ive narrowed it down to two watches and i wanted to see what everyone thought. This watch will be a daily wearer until ultimately I acquire the funds for a new Rolex date just... in the future..sometime. . Anywho, after hours of research and forums scouring Ive ended up between the NOMOS club and the Tag Heuer Formula 1 Calibre 5 Auto. The issue is they are very different watches, and i'm aware that Tag isn't the most beloved brand on the forums, yet the new formula 1 has a decent automatic movement and feels very solid on the wrist. It's visually pleasing to me and seems as if it would be a great daily wearer due to its build and versatility. The NOMOS on the other hand is more in a league of its own with in in-house german quality movement for its price-point is something I've yet to find elsewhere. However, not having an AD anywhere near me I cant say how it feels on the wrist and can't comment on the "lug length" issue people seem to have. It also doesn't seem quite as versatile as a daily wearer, but it seems like it could be dressed up or down rather well. Anyways, thanks for the help guys let me know what you think!


a couple pics for reference

[Dubins930]

not sure what happened to the sizing on the Tag... sorry about that.

[sticky]

Considering that you ultimate goal is a DJ go for the Nomos now so that when you get the Rolex it will be something totally different.

[dbakiva]

Considering that you ultimate goal is a DJ go for the Nomos now so that when you get the Rolex it will be something totally different.

Yes.

[Perseus]

Very touch call. If you only have one watch I think I'd want the bracelet option. That said I do like Nomos and own a Ahoi but many models seem to have a huge gap between the strap and the case that drives me insane. Here are a few examples:





Not a great photo but it's not an issue with the lugs on the Ahoi.

[Perseus]

On another Nomos note, the Ahoi was really outside of my wheelhouse and I had to buy it without seeing it in person. Thankfully I really, really love the watch. When it first arrived I was a touch apprehensive but I wore it for a weeks straight and I really bonded with the watch. Every time I see pictures I want to go put it on.

[imaCoolRobot]

I just got my Nomos Club. The lugs are perfect. Like a leggy model.
They serve to accentuate the watch itself.
If your budget allows it. Go for the Timeless Edition Nomos Club.

[eroc]

I purchased The Formula 1 a few months ago, and promptly returned it. Now don't get me wrong I loved the look of the watch and was very excited when ordered. I did not have the opportunity to view one in the flesh so I did the best research I could. When opening the box my first reaction was wow. Then I took it out, and what is up with this bracelet? To me it did not meet up to the standard I would expect in this price range. And the clasp is just that thin pressed metal. Really? I know this is considered an entry level Tag but for over $1000 I expect better. After all I just purchased a seiko for $180 with a better quality bracelet. Then I started playing with the bezel and at least with the watch I received there was quite a bit of play. That was a deal breaker no mater how nice the wrist presents was I could not get past the bracelet and bezel. I still think it's a great looking watch.

[Tseg]

[blowfish89]

I wear my watches almost exclusively on straps, and I can't stand the Nomos lugs. I guess you could always get a thicker, more rounded edge strap to reduce it (hint: leather nato).
If its a daily wearer, I would want a dark dial, sporty watch with bracelet and waterproof, but as your goal is for a Datejust, it seems you like dressy watches more. The Tag would be my pick here, but I strongly recommend you to also explore the offerings by Sinn, Stowa and Damasko.