Wow, thanks blue. The advice is much appreciated, everyone. And yeah, business casual for me. Buying a suit is next on my list though (which will be another thread!).

I think a Patek would be lovely and maybe kinda sorta even an investment of sorts, but the JLC is already a bit of a something I'm wrapping my head around. I really like the MC UT Moon in stainless (which is discontinued, so I think I'll snap one up). But first, I'll check out Beuget, IWC some more, Glaushette, and Vacheron Constantin. And Frank Muller, too!

No probs, I listed the watches in my order of preference.

As for brand appeal, if you're really getting into the hobby then you'll start realizing brand name is a big deal since it encompasses the maker's history, aesthetics, and prestige. It also says a lot about one's personal tastes, and yes this is akin to how women view bags.

For example I'm not a big fan of VC even though it's part of the "Big Three" (PP, AP, VC). I feel that the brand is stagnating and the design of their more recent Overseas sports line is downright boring compared to similar offerings from Patek or AP (go check out the Patek 5960P or any Royal Oak Offshore). They give even less for your money than Patek in terms of materials used/quality, and you'll have to shell out 30k+ for any sort of unique aesthetics/complications. I'm also turned off by the brand's aesthetics which is too mature and austere, so the only appeal VC has left for me is their history.

As for Zenith they are really a value brand in that you can get more complications and unique designs for cheap. For example I believe they make the cheapest tourbillions on the market (with brand recognition), and their El Primero skeleton watch posted in this thread is one I recommend a lot as an entry level watch for those who want some flair. I almost made an impulse purchase on a limited edition that I saw awhile back because I couldn't believe how gorgeous it looked:



(I love blue in case you haven't noticed).


Which is why I do not recommend Zenith if you are looking for more simple designs. These are usually entry level watches, and since they all pretty much look the same you'd be better off with a big brand.

I would have thought Dave would have been more into something like this based on his love for Pagani interiors.

Lol, nope. Now this, this is all me.

Since someone asked about rolex, I present a few choice images, for your viewing pleasure:











 




A corrupt douche and his rolex, now trying to stay out of prison [former gov Bob McDonnell]







Ho-lee Shit





wow. I'm not going to lie. I find his pant/vinyl-leggings fascinating.

Since someone asked about rolex, I present a few choice images, for your viewing pleasure:

Yeah, much of the Rolex customer base is, shall we say, unpleasant. Part of that comes from simply dominating everyone else in terms of mind share. Everybody knows who Rolex is. Cartier and Bulgari are also fairly well known, but definitely not to the same degree.

So after you've ordered the Continental GT or Lamborghini, the next step is a gold Rolex.

Seems like Patek Phillipe would be a good choice for fleeing.

That might even be their motto. " You never actually own a Patek Phillipe. You simply take care of it until you arrive safely in another country."