The watch post: Sinn uber alles!

So if you're a somewhat metro guy or just a fastidious gent, or maybe you're just into reading mens' magazines at the dentist/ barber/ doctor you'll know that the only really acceptable piece of male jewelry is the watch. (everything else tends to fall in the gray somewhere between gigolo-chic from the 70s to the bling-bling attitude of the last couple of years) Ah, the watch. And the must-have lists that are feverishly perused by the newly rich and/ or the freshly clueless include the usual suspects - the Bond Omega, the Tag Heuer, the over-wrought Rolex Oyster/ Submariner/ do-everything-er, or the bulbous Breitlings (including the truly remarkable one that has a 48 hour emergency signal gizmo built into it). But before one heads out to shop its worth considering some not-so-obvious choices.

The understated yet absolutely exclusive ones are the Breguet, Blancpain and Roger Dubuis - to own any of these to give up one's firstborn in a commercial transaction. But then there are the easier-on-the-wallet possibilities that are equally brilliant and out of the ordinary. So listen carefully, here are two old and two new of the best:
1. Sinn - Since 1961, specializing in instrument or tool watches. The Flieger 103 Ti Ar is an absolute standout, and a personal favorite (full disclosure - I own one, and after two years, it still feels special). Its a tasteful entry into the big-watch world, with some unique features - an argon-filled titanium case with an embedded copper sulphate capsule
http://www.sinnstore.com/index.php
2. Longines - Since 1832, the company has the oldest registered logo for a watch company. The Master series is excellent, the dials are particularly unique with a "barleycorn" pattern (I have the GMT model, and while it never fails to delight, I'm not thrilled by the inevitable wear and tear in the leather strap)
3. Chronoswiss - Since 1982, started by Gerd Lang - these are interesting "fat" watches with onion crowns and knurled bezels
4. Auguste Reymonde - Since 1898, and still family owned. Excellent value for characterful chronometers

All of these are mechanical automatics, the best kind there is. Some have power reserve models, most have crystal backs, so you can peek in the back and marvel at the movements, or entertain some hapless nephew with the same (I've tried it. The fascination lasts for about 45 seconds, after which there is an urge to open it - very dangerous!). If you need help in locating a credible seller, you'd be happy buying at Watchbuys, I've used them repeatedly and they are exceedingly dependable, besides having an absolute passion for the products they peddle.

Happy watch-ing!