Watches up to 6k

For that price you could probably find an Omega Speedmaster with their co-axial movement if you don't mind buying from a Jeweler's estate collection. They're about 44mm and look good on brown leather, black leather, and steel bracelets. The co-axial movements are really impressive from a technical standpoint if that's something you care about. If you want to go outside the box a little bit, maybe look into a Panerai Radiomir. They aren't going to be as timeless as something like an Omega, Rolex, etc., but they are round, large, and probably not something that you'll see someone else wearing too often. If you're not a badge whore, you can pick up the Tudor Black Bay with a black bezel and black leather strap for less than $3,000 brand new. They retail for ~$3,100 but you should easily be able to talk the jeweler down. It's an espensive watch for only having a modified ETA 2824 movement, but it's reliable and classic looking. Good luck.

I'm a fan of IWC's Portuguese and Portofino. Check out buying a used watch from a reputable watch store. You can probably get both used at that budget.

I recommend Tag Heuer if you're willing to spend up to $6k. Rolex, too, of course, though I'm not that familiar with their leather banded collection.

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Thanks guys I'll look into these

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thank you

You pretty much described Panerai to a tee.

I'll second TAG Heuer and really like their Carrera models. Not that special, but really timeless..

If you like sportier watches over more classic looks, I'd go B&R or Panerai... for more classic design it seems like IWC or Omega are the way to go

I'm a female and I have to say: I really don't understand the appeal of a leather band. Metal bracelets are SO much hotter to women in a very basic way. A guy with a leather band doesn't get his hands dirty and probably never sweats, he's not going to throw me over his shoulder and carry me back to his cave. Even if you only wear the watch M-F and never to the gym, a metal bracelet still makes me think you like to sweat. Just my two cents.

Reconsider picking up a used ceramic Rolex Submariner (no date will be easier on your budget) or a ceramic GMT Master II. Might be a bit tough to find a good condition GMT Master II under 6k but I mention these pieces because they hold their value well.

They will not be on leather but I really enjoy my piece (I also had to stretch my budget for the GMT Master II and now my Breitling gets no wrist time.)

The market is not as strong for Panerai, IWC, etc... and they lose value very quickly.

Some good suggestions so far. For specifics, some I like are:

Omega Aqua Terra 8500... Bracelet but easily switched to leather, I like the blue dial (42mm)

Panerai PAM187...leather (radiomir black seal, 45mm cushion case)

Zenith El Primero 1969 chrono tri-color...leather (42mm)

If you want something less recognizable to the general public, check out the Nomos Zurich Weltzeit... I just picked up the blue dial and it's amazing.

Just remember...whatever you get, keep up with getting it serviced.

I go for omega deville series!!! They are the bomb! Simple and elegant :)