Summer Analyst Watches ( Tissot?)

I want to cop a watch for my summer analyst stint in London this year. Currently rocking an old apple watch, black default strap. Was thinking of buying a Tissot PRC 100 Solar - I don't want to spend tooo much money - I think its better to hold back and buy cheap one till I can really go for the big boy watches


My only concerns were a lot of watches in this price range just look like knock off APs or Rolex GMTs (like tudor black bay)

I asked ChatGPT if there is a stigma with Tissot it said they are seen as "Mall Market" watches. Don't want to look like an uncouth barbarian. Anyone have any watch recommendations?

14 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some solid recommendations for summer analysts looking for a watch that balances affordability, style, and professionalism:

  1. Oris Divers Sixty-Five (~$2000): A neat, simple, and under-the-radar option. It offers good visibility and a clean dial, making it a great choice for a professional setting without being too flashy. Available on authenticwatches.com.

  2. Tudor Black Bay 36mm (~$2700): While you mentioned concerns about Tudor looking like a knock-off Rolex, the Black Bay 36mm is slim, elegant, and crafted with the quality you'd expect from the Rolex group. It's a step up in terms of brand perception and durability. Available on Crown and Caliber.

  3. Baume et Mercier Classima (~$1000): A subtle and elegant timepiece that flies under the radar. It's not as well-known, but it delivers excellent quality for the price. You can find it on the company's website.

  4. Nomos or Longines (~$1000-$2000): If you're looking for clean, slim lines and understated elegance, these brands are highly recommended. They exude class without being overly ostentatious.

  5. Seiko Presage or Citizen Eco-Drive (~$300-$500): If you're looking to spend less, these are excellent entry-level options. They are reliable, stylish, and won't break the bank.

Regarding Tissot, while it may be perceived as a "mall market" brand by some, it still offers solid watches for the price. If you like the Tissot PRC 100 Solar, go for it—confidence in your choice matters more than others' opinions. However, if you're concerned about perception, the options above might better align with your goals.

For a summer analyst stint, it's wise to keep it simple and professional. Save the "big boy" watches for when you're further along in your career!

Sources: The Banker's Guide to Watches, The Banker's Guide to Watches, Best Watch to Buy for Young Professionals, Thoughts on Panerai, Watches Under 5K

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Tissot is a great brand to start with, they have some nice watches (PRX being the most popular). Anecdotally, I haven’t see many super expensive watches in London (mostly smart watches) and most people really wouldn’t care/notice unless you’re wearing something super garish. 

 
Most Helpful

My first comment didn’t post I’ll be brief

1 -no one cares what watch you have on, it doesn’t add to return offer likelihood. If you like it wear it !

2-Tissot is the best brand a responsible college kid would own (I.e funded themselves) Not really a “mall” watch so much the way something like citizen has become.

3- big watch guys could comment on your choice but that’s kind of the beginning and end of the story. Your MD will have your summers pay on his wrist and maybe multiples of it everyday so really it’s moot. Again if you like it wear it.

4-Tudor is not knock off rolex they are sister companies (same founder, now under same foundation)

 

Agree on all 4. I think the Tudor hate is slightly overdone (I don't own one myself) but i do get a lot of their models do indeed look like their Rolex cousin

 

I like watches, think they’re cool, fashionable and love the various ways a movement can be constructed. There is a brilliance with how they’re engineered that I find very respectable. However, I’ve yet to ever see buying something over a thousand bucks as justifiable (I have other money pits I prefer).

I have an eco drive that is a beautiful watch. I’ve gotten compliments on it from watch and non-watch people. It is noticeable when you look at it, but not too flashy. It catches eyes, doesn’t force their attention - that is the key difference.

My brother is more into them, had a few from the more elite brands. He also had an Invicta auto that had a movement on par.

Remember, summer analyst, buy something that looks good and isn’t too flashy.

Only two sources I trust, Glenn Beck and singing woodland creatures.
 

You can't go wrong with a Tissot imo. Very reliable and solid watches in a decent price range (£200-500). For a first watch, you can get a smart Tissot for under £250-300. Personally, I would never contemplate wearing a luxury watch (Rolex/Omega etc) until you're associate and above, and even then i would think twice about wearing it on the daily. Another option is a Timex, i got the RFK JR one and am in love with it, although it is more sporty

 

yeah I bought Tissot PRX since writing this. Quartz version because I am broke and don't care about movement.

Was thinking of getting an Omega Aqua Terra or De Ville once I start. Or even a Rolex DJ with the blue dial and jubilee bracelet once I start FT. I like watches (aesthetically) and would want to wear it everyday

 

Good man - Omega is solid taste for a first luxury watch (I'm a Seamaster man) - but would never ever wear it to the office period. I'm not a watch connoisseur, but you will well know that Rolex appreciation massively outpaces that of an Omega / Cartier / Tag etc. and so on.

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