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Originally Posted by mongrelnomoad
Lovely watch! I've had a similar paralel experience. I have 6" wrists, and have worn a 5066a (36mm) Patek for the best part of two decades. I also have a 36mm Royal Oak, but recently, though no fan of oversized watches, couldn't help but think that I would like a watch a little larger for every day. With three young kids, two dogs and an active life, that meant it had to be hard-wearing, water resistant, and on steel or rubber.
I bought a Rolex BLNR, and though it is a tough beater, and pretty wonderful as a tool, I just can't get comfortable with the 'wearing a Rolex' thing, and get self-conscious.
So the search began. My father has worn a 3800 Nautilus every day for thirty years, and so the logical step was one of the family. I hadn't really been into watches for a while, happy with what I had and only adding a few to commemorate special occasions. When I tried the 5712, and it was perfect, I was shocked at the games I was required to play. I have to admit as well the Nautilus craze has left a rather negative image in its wake. Overseas was too big (though that bracelet is wonderful), as was unfortunately the Journe LineSport which I loved, though its lack of water resistance was another issue. I'm a bit bored of the Royal Oak, find the bracelet on mine uncomfortable (probably why it's only been worn a handful of times in 25 years), and the ultra-thin has no water resistance, so no.
When I walked into the Lange boutique, it was love at first sight, but...
Instead I have placed a deposit for a Czapek Antarctique. I love the look (it seems a modern reincarnation of the VC 222), and though I have no experience of the brand, I have decided to give them the benefit of the doubt. They have been so welcoming and forthright - it has been a breath of fresh air to be treated with friendly respect and honesty rather than jumping through hoops, second guessing every utterance, and feeling somehow and ridiculously less...
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Thanks for sharing that experience, that was a great and informative read.
Czapek Antarctique - What a choice! The only reason I crossed it off my list was unfamiliarity. It really looks the part. Will keep an eye out for your views on it down the road.
On a more philosophical note, fascinating how life experiences, small habits, likes etc can shape a watch decision.
And that last paragraph is the exact reason I barely ever just get up and go look at watches in shop any more, used to be one of my favourite past times.