Nice Watch for around $1500-2000 for Grad Gift

In that price range I like Baume and Mercier.

There are a million factors to consider. 1. Purpose? This really dictates everything else written below. For example, do you want something that is strictly dressy or something that can be both dressy and casual? 2. Theme of watch? Your typical themes would be diver watches (think rolex), dressy watches, racing watches, pilot watches, etc. Have an idea what you like. Most people are generally attracted to diving watches. 3. Strap? This doesn't matter much, but would you want a leather, canvas, metal strap?

Get a Hamilton, I can't post links, but look into them. They are right in that 1500 range, and are very nice and one of the few that are still actually Swiss Made (From what I hear Tag isn't)

+1 on the Hamilton - same movement as Omega (lots of valjoux 7750) and cheaper, look just as expensive & have lifetime warranty.

I have a Hamilton jazzmaster - check them out.

orient star and chris ward make some very nice watches. Also think about if you want a mechanical watch or not. Would you like a skeletal hole or back case so you can see the movement?

+2 for the Hamilton,my brother has one and I love it.He has a leather strap.

Stowa 1938 Chronograph - On the dressy side but with a modern big-face vibe, a poor man's Portuguese chrono with a display caseback. Punches above its weight in looks and a brand that carries some weight with those in the know. Right in your price range. You're welcome.

personally, I'd hint at more than 1 watch: get something around 1k-1500 like a tag and then something more sporty for 2-500. for me, this would be a surf watch (nixon or rip curl), but luminox makes a hell of a good watch too.

+3 for hamilton

Leaning towards Hamilton but I have also found some nice Raymond weils. Any one have thoughts on that brand?

Have you thought about a pre-owned watch? Most jewerly/watch stores sell pre-owned watches - You might be able a nice one for a decent price

Breitling used to have time pieces around $2k, but I don't think they do now. If they do, I would recommend that. Otherwise, go for the Baume and Mercier or Tag. They have some excellent time pieces in that price range. Some other alternatives worth considering are Oris and Hamilton. They start out cheaper, but some models can get really expensive. At that price range, the time piece should be Swiss made.

any thoughts about Raymond weil?