Fresh Set is an ongoing series where readers follow the newest StockX Watch member, Hadjj, as he learns more about the in’s and out’s of watches.
As the designated StockX office watch newcomer, I consistently find myself asking colleagues: what are the truly essential time pieces I need to build my collection? So to kick off this series, I wanted to share with you some watches that I think are great for under $2,000. Now, I know what you’re thinking- $2,000 is a lot for a watch! And I was the same way too. My only experience with watches were $100 G-Shocks back in middle school, and even back then, that was very expensive. But since arriving at StockX and learning from the many watch gurus in the office, I finally understand the hype. Watches are complex, and the many small pieces that power them help make each piece unique.
When I start to really dive deep into this foreign land, I begin to understand why a Rolex Submariner can cost something like $8,000+. To me, that price is still out of most people’s budget, especially if you’re just coming into the scene. There is a reasonable amount of watches, ranging anywhere from $100 to $2,000, that are great for anyone wanting to start developing a collection.
Casio G-Shock Special DW-5600BB-1CR
Casio’s G-Shock should be everyone’s starter watch. It’s the equivalent of dipping your toe in the pool, not too cold, not too hot, just right. This version of the DW-5600 is dressed in all black, making it a great watch that matches with everything. With it’s 49mm watch face, it is the perfect size to fit any wrist appropriately. Also, G-Shocks are known to be some of the most durable watches on the planet, with there strength being similar to that of a Nokia 3310 cell phone from 2000. For a watch with a long lifespan that meets all of your basic needs, $100 is a price that can’t be beat.
Casio G-Shock x A$AP Ferg Limited Edition GA110FRG-7AER
Now if your looking for something more loud than the neutral black DW-5600, then this GA-110 is for you. Let’s not even get into the specs of it, and solely take it for its face value. The small hits of color will please any fan of minimalist design and even appeal to those into flashy designs. In collaboration with Harlem-born artist, A$AP Ferg, the GA-110 is decked out in a translucent frosted body, reminding you of your early 2000s “See-Through” Gameboy Color. Priced at $175, this G-Shock delivers both flash and simplicity without chipping away at your budget.
Apple Watch Series 3 GPS + Cellular Black
Nowadays, it seems like you can never have enough Apple products. If you’re looking for something that is as easy to incorporate into your life as an iPhone, then an Apple Watch is just for you. This watch does it all, and I mean ALL. The Series 3 watch comes packed with a speedometer, a heart rate detector, GPS capabilities, and even cell-phone functionality. I truly meant it when I said it does it all! In addition to being something out of “Back to the Future”, this watch is also fully customizable, letting you alter the watch’s screensavers and straps. The Apple Watch Series 3 is priced at $279 and will not disappoint.
Seiko Prospex PADI Special Edition SRPA21
I’ve learned that in the watch community, Seiko watches are considered the entry level brand for any newcomer. To the seasoned watch enthusiasts, the Seiko Prospex PADI comes with similar features that add value to your everyday expensive watch. The Prospex’s body is made in a brushed stainless steel fashion, adding a nice rugged look. The Prospex’s case comes with Seiko’s famous turtle case construction, which provides a nice cushion to the wrist with it’s bubble like design on the watch’s underbelly. The most notable design of this watch is its red and blue bezel. Taking it’s nickname from the popular soda company, the red and blue bezel is known colloquially as ‘Pepsi’ and has been adapted by some prolific brands like Rolex and Tudor. This is my first ‘Grown-Up’ watch and I find it to be the slippery slope that will cause me to buy even more watches. The Seiko Prospex PADI goes for $385 on StockX and is the best way to enter the luxury watch community.
Oris Big Crown Pointer Date 01 754 7741 4065-07 5 20 63
We are now entering the $1,000 range, BUT DON’T LET THAT SCARE YOU! I’m here to show you that you have a friend in this too. If you’re looking for something that blends both casual and classy into one piece, look no further than the Oris Big Crown Pointer. With the Big Crown Pointer, Oris is striving for modern versatility. With the addition of the brown band and the simple designs on the watch’s dial add to it’s classic, vintage feel. Whether it’s date night, going into the office, or even meeting the parents for the first time, this watch fits into any part of your day. Priced at $1,460 this Oris is a great watch that has your back in multiple scenarios.
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