Ideal one and done watches

[@tflp1950]

My grandad has one watch, the Omega Moonwatch, at a wedding I asked him if he would ever consider getting a dress watch, he replied "If it's good enough for the moon it's good enough for weddings".

[@adsagp]

Your granddad is a cool guy!

[@TheCyclingCardio]

Your grandad is the man 👍🏼

[@jysanto7665]

Your GradDad probably replaces the taps on his shoes quarterly and wishes that his teevee would warm up when he turns it on.

[@Gnap530]

Woooow! What a time to be alive when we can just click one time and then sit back and relax and just listen to this man talking for a few minutes without asking anything in return! I have to say I love it. Thank you good Sir! I reckon even if you are not into watches at ALL this would still make up for a few enjoyable minutes.

[@gee530]

Yep! Totally agree.

[@mhirst16]

Being a watch and car guy, I get questions all the time "What car should I buy?". "What watch should I buy"? My answer for non-enthusiasts....Toyota for cars, Citizen Eco-Drive for watches. Both of those will run for many years with little to no maintenance.

[@fuloplehel]

I just purchased the new citizen promaster land 35th anniversary edition, and I have some older mudmasters, I like watches but I never spend more than 1000 usd for a watch

[@mickeymichaels1298]

As a lifelong car nut I've spent decades learning about cars, including many obscure ones, only to tell friends and relatives who aren't knowledgeable about cars, "Buy a Toyota Camry or Honda Accord."

[@mhirst16]

@@mickeymichaels1298 Can definitely relate! The sad part is, they don't actually take my advice. I'll say, "avoid that Ford Focus, it has an unreliable transmission" and then they buy it anyways and are confused when it breaks...I told you so! Lol

[@mickeymichaels1298]

@@mhirst16 😁

[@Harrythehun]

I would never promote Toyota, they have cheated on crash tests for decades.

[@martinpankhurst2683]

Thank you for identifying yet more watches for my expanding one and done collection !😂

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Happy to help 😂

[@RonBhattacharya]

@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch I don't know why you would think of Panerai as 'flashy', but IMO, the Radiomir Panerai in a green dial in one of the 'classiest' out there. If only they had a 'slight' repetition' of the dial colour elsewhere along with the leather band - it'd be a perfect design [also maybe throw in a 200mtrs WR, if they can... lol].

[@geodesicmonkey]

My grandmother bought me my Tag Heuer Carrera in 2005 as a college graduation present. She has since passed. Everyday I put it on I am reminded of her. My one and done.. perhaps gift it to my daughter when she graduates. Much appreciation for the videos.

[@mchangun]

That's absolutely priceless. The thought that u can then gift it to your daugher...amazing. Probably also means I'm getting old.

[@Arthur_George]

Love stories like this, wear it with pride my friend 😊

[@Obsid_Ian]

I have 2 Tags from that era and can't get replacement bracelets or bezels for them. It sucks when they make too many different pieces to be able to supply parts. Keep wearing the watch and think of the story behind it.

[@geodesicmonkey]

@@Obsid_Ian when I needed to have some internal repair made, the winding knob stopped working, the jeweler has to order a part from California. I live in Texas.

[@brucesuitt993]

For under $1k, I would suggest Hamilton watches all day long. They are built to last forever, are very well regulated, and use ETA calibers that are easily serviced.

[@cerealport2726]

shoeless children? no no, a real watch enthusiast would sell the kids too.

[@florenkarlociudadano5344]

😂

[@billable1861]

Most would have to swallow them to afford these recommendations!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

lol 😂

[@michaelolofsson8558]

I traded my kid for my 2531.80 SMP.

[@Jijhebtmijnnaamnietnodig]

@@michaelolofsson8558 Yes thank you for your kid, i have fun with it every day /s

[@grunt5074]

So happy to see Victorinox mentioned. They really don't seem to get any love but I managed to pick up a 2-tone alliance for under 200$ a few years ago and it's a really stunning piece that gets some of the most compliments of my collection.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

The inox is a fun watch 😀

[@grunt5074]

@@Probeionic Agreed. I managed to snag an older wenger urban classic for 50$ for a friend of mine and at that price I've got nothing but good things to say about it.

[@guclumelek79]

Another great video... Kudos Mike ! My take for 1 watch one-and-done collection, would be as follows; Sub1000$ >> Hamilton Khaki Auto or Murph 1000-2000$ >> Sinn 556 series or 856 UTC, depending on your style 2000-3000$ >> Longines Spirit Zulu 3000-5000$ >> Tudor Black Bay 58 GMT 5000-7500$ >> Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra or Seamaster 300 depending on your style choice +7500$ >> Rolex GMT Master II +15000$ >> Patek Philippe ( any of the Nautilus, Aquanaut, Calatrava models that suits your taste )

[@Antipe6o]

Sinn 556A on silicone strap did it for me. Beautiful and simplistic dial exuding quality. Never got sold on the Rolex / Omega hype.

[@TatsukiHashida]

For me it’s the Sinn 556I, it’s perfect.

[@66racer]

Before I was a watch person I wanted to aspire to own a Rolex. Now today I would go JLC Polaris over a Rolex. I would do a Tudor Ranger though but realized Rolex is like Toyota fan boy hype in the auto world. In reality, my next watch is probably a Formex Reef, a lot of watch for $2k

[@bulj]

I am waiting for mine to arrive next week​@@TatsukiHashida

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Very nice 😀

[@djdeckstar]

@@66racerPolaris is ugly. Is the reason you don’t like Rolex have anything to do with the watch?

[@George_Lewis]

I know quite a few men and women whose one-and-done watch is a Rolex. None of them appear to be watch nerds. I am a watch nerd, however, If I could have only one watch it would be my midsize Omega Seamaster 300 that I purchased in 1999-ish. I have worn it with a suit to funerals and weddings, hiking to the tops of some of Nevada's tallest mountains, and everywhere in-between.

[@AZadeh-nd8vx]

I'm a self confessed watch nerd and have built a collection out of One and Done watches 😅 at the moment I have a black Sub, Blue DateJust 41, a Seamaster "Goldeneye" quartz, Cartier Santos Large, Navitimer - had lots of Omegas and Tudor but Rolex is still the ultimate One and Done watch brand

[@George_Lewis]

@@AZadeh-nd8vx I Mostly agree... I think Rolex is the most recognizable one and done (O&D) watch brand. My wife's O&D is a 2-tone Oyster Perpetual... She seldom wears anything else. I am in the "I can afford, however, I don't want a Rolex" category. I'm 71 years old and (in my mind) I can't justify the added cost for the coronet (EDIT). Additionally, they are also the most recognizable luxury watch to many of the undesirables in society.

[@viktorreiter8811]

"I know quite a few men and women whose one-and-done watch is a Rolex. None of them appear to be watch nerds." this is not necerssarily a bad thing. it takes a lot of learning and experimenting to get to the point where you are confindent in yourself that you can actually decide if a watch is well built, durable, repairable, has good resale value, has a design that won't feel corny in ten years, etc. if you don't want to get deep into the rabbithole but want a 'nice watch', your best bet is often THE top brand. it's the same for many other things. if you are not a knife nerd, but you want to buy a quality chefs knife, you go for a wüsthof classic. it might be a bit overpriced, but you know it is good. you are paying extra for the promise that you are not going to be disappointed.

[@johnmmxii]

Could we say that the only thing you didn't do with it was actually diving?

[@George_Lewis]

@@johnmmxii Yes.

[@yehoshua77]

The Seiko 62 Mas SPB143 ticks all the boxes for me and has been my daily watch for 3+ years now.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

excellent choice

[@davem8836]

I like this channel. Gets right to it. Succinct, no fluff, no bullshit.

[@josepauloneuparthvieirafer4449]

I get the same vibe. Love this channel.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

glad to hear it 😀

[@majortom908]

Love your balanced approach to any subject.....not only knowledgable but also an excellent presenter....well done!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thank you

[@Leo-gh7nz]

I have gone through way too many watches at a lot of price points. And yet as a one and done watch, the IWC Mark XX stands out clearly. Improved WR on the XX is a huge deal. Then add in legibility, timeless style, date function, brand recognition, comfort. It’s also a strap monster AND makes it easy as cake to change the straps, and legit looks good on all 3 strap possibilities. The OEM rubber in particular is one of the best rubber straps I have experienced. The bracelet has an ingenious micro adjustment, and easy to size links. It really is the best and dare I say perfect one and done. For me personally I have been fortunate enough to get a VC Overseas and that would prob me MY one and done if forced, as it shares a lot of the qualities of the Mark XX. Mark XX looks better on leather strap though, and easier to size links.

[@Leo-gh7nz]

@@Creative-Destruction-xyz "But obviously not for those who prefer a louder statement." I think the straps help with that. The OEM orange strap looks really good with the black dial imo and really makes the watch stand out, if that's what one is going for. But I think that's why it's important for a one-and-done to be a strap monster because you're less likely to get bored with it if you can change it up frequently.

[@shanghaiffgg]

@@Leo-gh7nzI agree. Personally I find it too bland

[@frankpentangeli7945]

To me the best "one and done" watches that are ultimately versatile but also really attractive are the Explorer (the 39mm version) and the Aqua Terra. Can't beat them. And if you're looking for a DIVE watch you can wear under any circumstance, it has to be a Submariner. More inexpensive "one and done" watches could be a pre-owned (since they've been discontinued) Seiko SARB033 / SARB035, a Longines Spirit "time only" version or perhaps a Hamilton Khaki Field, though the Khaki is not quite as versatile as the other brands I mentioned. Tudor Black Bay 58 may work too, but I find them a little bland most of the time.

[@SirStamford27]

Glad you mentioned Sinn. Great watches. 556 is a good "one" watch to get as well. I've got my eye in the 556 ib blue.

[@wisamal-hakim5531]

I have this watch. It is perfect in this role

[@safetyforge]

I picked up my Sub No Date for my 60th birthday....but couldn't stop there. Really enjoy swapping to my GS and Tudor GMTs and love the simplicity of my Sinn 556i. I have a few others from Hamilton, Seko and Citizen that get some wrist time as well. Excellent video again Michael...a wonderful tour of some amazing choices out there!

[@slackymac2756]

One more thumbs up for the Sinn mention. It took a lot of googling before I purchased my 556A RS with a couple of straps/bracelets before feeling I scratched that one and done itch. I wear my Titanium Citizen daily as I am so tough on watches, but the Sinn comes out when I don't expect to return home dusty and dirty. A great watch, nicely validating to hear you mention the brand. If you had missed it, I'd still love it and feel it was my secret.

[@simonhodgetts6530]

I subscribe to the 2 watch collection. An good quality automatic watch for most daily uses, including for formal occasions, and a ‘beater’ watch for when you’re doing chores. Personally I have a Tudor BB36 as my day to day watch, and a trusty (and almost indestructible) Seiko 5 military beater watch. I have a few others, but if I had to slim down to just 2 watches, these would be the 2.

[@Area_man115]

Please tell us which 5 series watch you own, if you don’t mind. Thanks!

[@drewzero1]

This has been my strategy as well for a while now. Lately I've been wearing a smartwatch instead of an automatic, but I always have the beater Casio for rough work.

[@samgrant83]

I've got VC's, AP's, Breguet's, Omega's, JLC's, Zenith's, old real Smiths - but one and done is still the good old VC Overseas first gen (ultra thin at 8.5mm, 150m WR), still better than anything VC is punting today out under the Overseas banner. They had to use a Girard-Perregaux movement. In today's market and buying today I'd go for the GP Laureato with essentially the same movement, not quite as thin, and not quite as highly rated WR, but still about the best "movement" for the money.

[@tboneisgaming]

Planes not trains could include Glycine Airman No.1, Seagull 1963, Seiko Gen 1,and Citizen Skyhawk. The Skyhawk served me well at sea as I changed timezones regularly. It lasted 10 years before I replaced it with a newer version. I sold that watch and started my collection with a Citizen Skyhawk, blue dial in titanium. It is 45mm now and quite thick but if you can get past that, it's a great watch. The Airman has great history, being a watch linked with aviation, military and space. A cool watch which takes a bit of getting used to reading but has a lot of pedigree. The Seagull is the same movement used by studio underdog, with the history to back it up. The Seiko Gen 1 may be vintage but the movement is bullet proof as long as it isn't exposed to water.

[@dann5554]

Speedy 3861 has a tool vibe watch and the current bracelet makes it suitable for formal. Also dont have to beg the AD

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

The last part is important 😀😀😀

[@KabobHope]

One thing that would be cool about having a GWM5610 as a one and done watch would be the fact that it is guaranteed to always be around. If something happens to your watch you can simply buy another for $100. If production stopped tomorrow, in 30 years these probably will be accessible at a reasonable price. It's a great watch to begin with and the fact that it is robust and accessible are bonuses. If one is coming up with a personal style you could wear this watch -- or one close enough to it -- for the rest of your life.

[@BAF605]

Glad you gave Mr Jones a mention. One and done maybe a stretch but every nerd should own at least one. In sales you can often pick one up under £200

[@tylershobby]

I didn’t mean for it to happen, but since May 2024 my one watch has been the Pelagos 39. It just works for my lifestyle and personal style (casual). I have a Grand Seiko shunbun SBGA413, Seiko Speedtimer panda, Hamilton khaki field bronze mech, and a few others… but since I got the pelagos in May it hasn’t left my wrist!

[@stevejamieson1613]

I have a Mr Jones watch - A Perfectly Useless Afternoon. Always a great conversation starter.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Cool watch for sure 😀

[@robertblaney5033]

I have the same watch. I have a lot of fun with it.

[@YT2000-s4c]

This is the best watch channel for watch nerds.........by far. It's so good that I can no longer stand to watch most other watch channels (except maybe the occasional AMW or Teddy B). These videos are a perfect blend of information, analysis, education, and entertainment . Great job.

[@NeoWahNah]

The metal Casioak is a good one and done!

[@scottburden6771]

Awesome video Mike. Grand Seiko fanboy here… I reckon their autos (eg. the White Birch) could slot in beside the OP and Aqua Terra, and for something just left of field the SBGM221. Spring Drive for watch nerd cred…

[@kresimirpleic]

I had to sell my watch colletion recently due to a health issue that I've been dealing with for the past year. My income got cut and the expenses don't wait. I hope I'll be able to get back in the game one day, but the idea of having only one watch never made more sense than now. Save your money folks. You never know...

[@lamentate07]

Sorry to hear that. What happened? I've stopped buying watches to save recently.

[@TRJUST]

Heal well with patience comes progress

[@silkytp789]

I love watching you! You always have sage and sound advice. I like your perspective.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

thanks for watching 😀

[@MikePlantus]

Well done knocked this one out of the park. Solid choices!

[@wisamal-hakim5531]

Another enjoyable video. Well considered and well done. Difficult topic to get right. Less than 500 a seiko GMT Less than 1000 traska or Chris Ward 1-2 a Sinn 556 ib 2-3 conquest 3-4 Tudor 4-5 chronomat gmt More than 5, Rolex OP or aqua terra 10+ GO seventies chrono 20+ overseas 30+ aquanaut 40+ Royal Oak complication 50+ Odysseus

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Nice choices

[@chris8535]

I feel like more and more the answer is just Tudor for everything. They have a great diver, GMT, Chronograph and ranger as well as sporty unique models and dress models. I own pateks APs and A langes and 80% of the time when I go to my watch drawer I grab my Tudor GMT. It’s just… so wearable.

[@adrianhjordan1981]

Good to know. I'm currently saving for a Tudor - likely a Pelagos - my first grail watch!

[@FlyedPiper]

I really like this idea. When i first started collecting this is what I had in mind. The watch becomes a part of you. I personally like the idea of buying one to wear 90% of the time, having a beater (I actually need to have a G Shock or similar at work or go watchless) and maybe a really nice dress watch you bring out a couple of times a year. Perfect.

[@Philip_Taylor]

2 watches - I enjoy my Citizen Eco-time, and my Swatch Jellyfish. EDIT: I'm glad you put Casio in there. I'm a consumer level enjoyer at this point in my life and Casio is something I can appreciate.

[@maxine2798]

Much as I was going to say. Accurate. No real maintenance. Less likely to be stolen. Having said that I have a garmin for sport and some others when I’m going somewhere nice but mainly to complete an outfit. (Vintage JLCs mainly)

[@michaelstecyk7365]

Missing out

[@1abasan1]

For me the one and done category is dominated by integrated bracelet designs.i think the GP Laureato is a decent substitute for AP, PP, and VC but as soon as the Laurent Ferrier Sport Auto gets on my wrist, all other watches (except some vintage JLCs I'm working on) will end up on Chrono24. The LF will be my true exit watch as a retirement gift to myself. Fantastic show Mike

[@jellebos6589]

Again, a very amusing and enjoyable video. But what about Grand Seiko as the one and all watch? For the watch nerds among us and Omega: the Railmaster and Globemaster! Brilliant watches and definitely not mainstream!

[@mightya]

I got myself a denim Railmaster on bracelet for $3K. Hardly worn and 4+ yeas of warranty. Couldn’t be happier!

[@fancycatkit]

I was thinking this also GS is perfect for that

[@j606ywt]

I own several watches, an Omega Speedmaster Pro, Citizen Eco Drive Chrono, Traser S3000, Casio G-Shock Mudmaster and a G-Shock square with radio controlled time synching and solar. All fantastic watches at very different costs. The cheapest of the lot, the G-Shock square is the cheapest and my favourite. So useful for my job, never needs a new battery and is always accurate. Its the perfect fit too. Less than £100.

[@luke211286]

I would like to recommend Christopher Ward C63 Sealander. Whether you get the standard or GMT version is up to you, but I would say get the GMT. The dragonfly blue has some Milgauss vibes to it, although not a homage by any means.

[@iamnew7545]

Hamilton Khaki Aviation Pioneer Mechanical on a Forstner Klip bracelet done it for me after 10 years of trying different watches (including Explorers, Sub, OP, Datejusts, Moonwatch, Tudor, Longines, Seiko…).

[@Not_Mark_Twain]

Nice video, as usual! Glashutte SeaQ belongs as a one-and-done but not Rolex alternative. And Seiko Alpinist is a fine one-and-done for outdoors types who don't want to spend stupid money on a watch.

[@Lawrence64]

The amount of information in each new video is incredible. Thanks for this renewed pleasure.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Glad to hear you feel it's worthy of your time 😀😀

[@MoirSolace]

Wow. As a one and done enthusiast.. (someone who tried to collect one and dones) I wound up with a BB58 on a Ranger bracelet... This video IS IT. This is the best one and done video out there. Honest, to the point and with enough details to send someone down the right rabbit hole. Well done! I'll be recommending this video to people for years.

[@rabtrekker]

For my 6.5" wrist its a Black Bay 54. Solid build, vintage charm, suitable for all but the most formal setting - yet I'd rock it. Best OTF adjustment in class - if not the market and 20mm lugs gives you endless options. My rotation returns quartz accuracy ✌️

[@Milofchg]

This is a tough one. A one and done watch is difficult for a watch person. I suggest ANY brand at any price point. The one and done criteria needs 1) 100 meters water resistant 2) A black or white dial maybe blue dial 3) A watch that has a bracelet option but can look just as good on a leather strap or a rubber strap 4) A watch that’s versatile enough to suit ally occasion. 5) Date complication optional 6) Automatic for convenience 7) 36mm - 40mm in size no more no less For me these are the minimum requirements for a one and done watch. 8.) Stainless Steel My personal favorites that fit my requirements are: Rolex Explorer 36/39/40mm Rolex OP Black dial 36/39/41mm Rolex Date Just smooth bezel oyster bracelet 36mm Black/white/silver stick dial IWC Mark 18/20, or Ingenieur JLC Polaris black dial 41mm Vacheron Constantine Fifty Six Blue dial Grand Seiko any version that’s water resistant black or white dial Omega Aqua Terra, Rail Master Tudor Black Bay smooth bezel, Ranger Hamilton Murph

[@Leo-gh7nz]

I’d take the Ingenieur out, strap changes are difficult and you would need specialized straps due to the center endlink. IWC messed up not including a system like Zenith’s Defy. Grand Seikos don’t look great on rubber straps, but that’s a subjective opinion. I don’t think of them as strap monsters. Otherwise great list

[@jamaldaniels5542]

@Milofchg This was a PHENOMENAL list breakdown for criteria! I agree 100% with almost every one… And my watch is a Mark XX, on a steel bracelet, white dial, mechanical, with 10 bar water resistance. I bought it last year, as my FIRST ever Luxury watch 🎉 and have NEVER once regretted it… I wear it almost every day. To work, weddings, casual parties.. can dress it up & down. And I love the fact that it’s mechanical ⚙️ because I get to interact with it weekly, winding it up.

[@guidoruetter2198]

VC Fifty Six does not meet all of your criteria. It only has 30m of water resistance

[@Leo-gh7nz]

@@jamaldaniels5542 Mark XX is automatic. If you are wearing it everyday you never have to wind it. Even more so for the XX considering it has 120 hours PR

[@davidr2802]

Geophysic 1958 clean dial 100 WR, superior shock resistant, great lume, chronometer specs, great brand. Get in Platinum for ultimate stealth wealth

[@docfluty]

I literally sold a few watches lately to fund my "one main watch" After looking at literally thousands of designs of everything under $50k... I settled on a Lange Saxonia Big Date Moonphase. It has the brand recognition, automatic, big date, moon, and made out of white gold... all very sublte but if you know you know. So, I am satisfied... but still looking for that next one lol

[@Makta972]

I Have a stunning Cartier Santos blue dial as my one and done and I'm so happy with it. Got mad compliments from women too.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

For good reason 😀

[@Makta972]

@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch yes because it's really gorgeous but Cartier the brand talk to them too. Patek, Omega etc not so much

[@michaelstecyk7365]

Not the type of watch that's practical

[@Area_man115]

@@michaelstecyk7365 For what? Telling time?

[@ianforber]

Wise words. One and done isn’t quite the same thing as GADA as the non-nerd might decide not to wear it when it doesn’t suit. Rolex Explorer for me but I love my AT too. IWC Mark XX is great but I lust after the Portugusier Chrono (blue dial) with the two distinctive sub-dials at 12 and 6. Cheaper? Just get a Longines. Any Longines.

[@JimWestrich]

Thanks Mike, as always! I'd add the category of useful complications (counting a diving bezel in): e.g. an annual calendar or dual timezone kinda stuff. BTW, although being a watch guy not owning a Rolex, I'd go if it were only one and done for a Sub (versatile, low maintenance, comfortable etc.). Besides, I wished you had added a Ulysses Nardin in the quirky category. Lastly, I had the new FOIS in my hands: Underwhelming. Applied omega logo nice, but overall too light (feels like a toy in comparison to the Moonwatch) and bracelet tapers really too much. Cheers

[@brittwebb5602]

Bravo good sir! Watch purchasing can be intimidating, especially at the sales counter. You just made the “one and done” concept both approachable and appealing. Again, bravo!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Just tried to do it with a different perspective 😀

[@FightingMango]

My one and done if I had to choose. Steel Skydweller. It’s so good. I reach for it in the watch box ALOT

[@aspiniou]

I feel that my 2230.50 omega non-ac is kind of a hidden Omega gem that not many are aware of. A variant of more popular Peter Blake 2254.50, with white gold bezel and applied indeces and logo makes it a flasher tool watch that already gave couple people a moment of pause when they saw it. Great video as always. Cheers.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Cheers to you too

[@LucaTheStar]

I like the "watch nerd street cred" category and I'd like to add my contender of "any Bulova" to said category. I personally own just one but if I see that tuning fork logo on any wrist in the wild I'm assuming they know how to dis- and reassemble any watch movement with their eyes closed. The exception to this is any skeleton dial that isn't an Accutron.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Agree on bulova 😀

[@TheGrandSeikopath]

Mike, great video as always. Extra kudos for mentioning Breitling Chronomat GMT. My choice however would be a quartz Grand Seiko, for all who want something a little bit special, and aren't fixated on mechanical watches. Something similar to SBGV223, or SBGP003. Preferably second hand. Will last you a lifetime and you won't get mugged, at least not because of what you wear on your wrist.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

That Breitling is a nice watch 😀

[@thelifeofjools8384]

Can't have just 1 if you own an automatic.....bloody thing needs a few weeks away for servicing every 5 yrs or so ... which bugs me frankly. Great vid 👍

[@MrZanzibar123]

Great list and explanations. I'd say that if someone wants a new Rolex at retail, the Sub and GMT (and even Datejust) are going to be tough to get, whereas they are more likely to get offered a Yacht-Master (which has been the only watch I've been wearing since getting it).

[@saphna2095]

just wondering if anybody else gets the horologic triple every Saturday afternoon (almost on the minute) in their feed of Mike, Teddy and Jenni?:D

[@garethdyos8018]

Haha, yep! 👍🏼

[@craigborrenpohl1233]

The algorithm tells them when to post.

[@vvvhhhhhbb]

Yes sir. Just watch Teddy at Tudor Manufacturing in Switzerland.

[@georgegiesbrecht8224]

It makes for a great morning

[@kresimirpleic]

There is no such thing as a Tudor manufacture in Switzerland. Tudor watches are not manufactured in Switzerland. They are only assembled, inspected and tested there.

[@pulkitganjoo]

Loved the video as always! For the Japanese/watch nerd/affordable $4k category I've recently come across Kurono Tokyo and Kuoe which seem really cool as well with some "one and done" options. Also, Furlan Marri's Rossi Grigio "mechaquartz" looks quite cool with a chronograph. Not all mechanical and in-house though, maybe none are but the dials are super nice.

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

I really like the IWC Mark XX blue dial.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

It's a great watch 😀

[@FlexRogers]

Despite owning a dozen plus watches, the one I find wearing most is my Casio AQ-230. It has the versatile steel bracelet, is extremely thin and light due to the case material/quartz movement, and an analog dial + digital sub-display gives the best of both worlds in terms of preserving traditional aesthetics with added functionality, all in a trendy square case. It combines aspects that I enjoy about other watches: like the Cartier tank in terms of a small rectangular case, the steel bracelet and metallic case allow it to be dressed up, the quartz/digital functions allow me to leave it alone for weeks and it’s ready for use at any time, plus it’s so light/thin that it slips under sleeves and I can forget I’m wearing it. The low price also makes me not worried about banging it up or getting it scuffed. If I had to recommend someone a one and done, it would be the AQ-230.

[@juniorjohnson5961]

I bought a Datejust it was my only watch for 37 years.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Good watch. No surprise

[@andyyoung3233]

Bro I was a one watch guy for over 12 years and I had a Omega seamaster and never regreted it for a minute, so I think this watch is the correct answer here 😀 I have just got one of those Steeldives as a daily basher and that is amazing for the money I can recommend one to anyone. Andy UK.

[@Omega30t2RG]

I would also advise against buying a one only watch,that is too big,and go for one on the smaller end of a preferred size range. This is because in the long term,smaller cased watches feel more agile for day to day use and for different social settings or activities.

[@southaussiemotorsport7962]

I just bought the new Hanhart Preventor HD12, what a watch! I think its ruined my "watch collecting journey" I had plans of this watch being the start of plenty, but this watch does everything! I think it's a one and done watch!

[@pedramfirooztash8452]

Thank you for the work you have put into this….very informative

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

if you enjoyed it, I'm happy 😀

[@AndreiConstantinescu-nb6vo]

Hi. I really enjoy your watch reviews and i am kind of watch collecting guy, but i see that serious watch KZbinrs like you do not talk about one of my favourite watch brands, the Italo Fontana U-Boat. It will be very interesting hearing your comments on that brand. Who knows , maybe one day. Thank you for everything you teached me on watches! Keep up the good work!

[@Tikkaspecial]

Great video as always. I was in this position 3 years ago. I knew nothing about watches but wanted a luxury watch for my 50th, expecting to get a Tag or Breitling as the commonly known luxury brands. I did a LOT of research and ended up with a white Omega SMP 300 which I love. What I didn't expect was also ending up becoming obsessed with Watches and now owning eight. Who needs eight watches? 😂

[@AQBPlays]

Oh… it gets worse Lol

[@PyroClit]

It will get much worse. Trust us. I got a moonwatch thinking it will be my one and only. And then, i have to travel a lot and do outdoorsy stuff, bought a Sinn U50. Had to buy a dress watch because of a wedding, And so on and so forth. Good luck. Lel

[@dblh84]

I'm somewhat disappointed the Glashütte Original Seaq Panorama wasn't mentioned - especially considering you had mentioned it previously on more than one occasion; I know it'll be my one and (not quite) done, tbh, in the not too distant future. I'm a "three watch collection" kind of guy. Other than that, yet another fantastic video, Mike. Yours is by far my favorite channel; I subscribed not that long ago, it seems, when you only had 20k subscribers and knew you'd be blowing up sooner rather than later. Congratulations, mate.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Can't mention all good watches - There are just too many. 😀😀😀

[@navinadv]

@4:00 why no Grand Seiko?

[@williambireley2529]

I have the same question. Grand Seiko makes fantastic watches- very nicely finished.

[@JustMeTalking]

I have two Grand Seiko watches in my collection. Very nice and love them both. - Grand Seiko Tentagraph 5Hz - Grand Seiko Snowflake Spring Drive

[@60zeller]

I recently purchased a Bulova Jet Star. I really like it. It’s a battery watch but it has a smooth second hand movement. 500 bucks

[@martinoconnor923]

You’re on the road to a Super Seville!

[@NorthernContrarian]

Longines all the watch someone like myself needs. Great looking and well made.

[@alanwu6243]

Love this video. Thank you, not everyone wants to spend 10K for a one and done Rolex. Great summary of all price points and the last part about being a watch nerd is perfect. I’d get a vintage Air King on a heart beat!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Good call on the air king 😀

[@claudtalkz2194]

The opening 😂❤

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Happy to hear it didn't fall flat 😀

[@Reese1105]

i agree with 99.99% you say, pretty much always you are absolutely spot on. However, I disagree with the selection of Rolex models: The Explorer 2 (particularly the new model in white) is one of the best Rolex models currently out there. It IS versatile in today's time and age. the current reference 226570 is matt and not "shiny" like the previous model (216570). It wears slightly smaller than 42mm, I'd say like 41mm. The Explorer 2 is available without long waitlists and characterising it as one of Rolex's odd-one out models is unfortunately something which is currently standard in the online lore, but it is wrong.

[@CV5Yorkie]

I nominate CW Bel Canto for the quirky category

[@ph8077]

I own both of the original LE versions.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

good choice. Missed that one 😀

[@romulopiazzalunga]

Great video, as usual, Mike. Maybe one category you didn't cover too much is that of good quality non-wacky microbrands. I feel a nice Lorier (Astra, Neptune, Falcon), a Nodus, a Raven, a Farer World Time, an Erebus, a Venezianico, Maen, inter alia, could need much of your love and knowledge. I know that most of them have the same movements, but, still, they have become great options for many watch nerds and could do the same with muggles.

[@elosacle]

I've been drooling over a Raven Endeavour II with the Pistachio dial for a hot minute. While I tend to prefer darker colors on watch dials, those watches seem like they're made so that can actually read them deep underwater. That being said, I thought for at least a year that my Vaer A5 (they make some pretty good steel bracelets, and they also have the Nodex Clasps for them on their website) would be my one and done, but I'm probably gonna be wrong about that in a month or so.

[@-crypt0]

Below 500 the San Martins are making waves in the community

[@ph8077]

Is that when they hit the water in the toilet bowl?

[@michaelstecyk7365]

And which community are you referring to.below 21 years old perhaps

[@adrianhjordan1981]

​@@michaelstecyk7365Every watch reviewer I see praising them is over 21....

[@adrianhjordan1981]

​@@ph8077They're better quality than equivalent priced Seiko or Citizen watches.

[@ClevaTreva]

Casio Oceanus T-200 (in blue). One of my many watches - but stunning and firmly a contender for the 'one and done' category. 👍

[@xchazz86]

As someone who is now 16 watches into the rabbit hole, if i had a chance to go back in time and just do a one and done, it would definetly be a fluted DJ with jubilee bracelet. Its just soo damn comfortable on wrist and a great daily for any occassion.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

good call on the dj 😀

[@danielbercovici5202]

Christopher ward might be a future investment in certain models if they get discontinued, such as the Twelve and Bel Canto, which for now are offering tremendous value for money and good reliable COSC movements .

[@Wayne-q1v6l]

Tag are more well-known than Omega by the non-watch folk.

[@adrianhjordan1981]

I'd reckon they're about equal. Don't forget the James Bond effect.

[@Wayne-q1v6l]

@adrianhjordan1981 oh yes, putting divers on incorrectly sizes NATO straps and trying everybody you can wear them with formal wear 🤣

[@event4216]

Thanks to this channel I learn more and more about watches, learn to appreciate all the technical and design nuances they have. Types of watches, tiers of manufacturers, price ranges, types of movements. Even if I weren't in need for a watch for many years until I rediscovered watch as a device to look at to know time. And to appreciate and use as a T-shirt (or suit) to transmit messages. Watches are cool.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Watches are fun 😀😀😀😀

[@DanGaskell]

One watch?!! How, why, is that really true?

[@ForumWarrior-q8x]

Why should I limit myself? 🙂 I need at least 8watches. I have 5 at the moment.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Insanity, I know 😀

[@gyges5495]

Omega Aqua Terra is the best, under that I like Tudor BB 58, Longines Heritage Diver Bronze and Christopher Ward C65 Aquitaine Bronze

[@cashdingo6386]

Metal G shock! The end

[@PMCsquared]

The G-Shock metal squares!

[@edwardchang2210]

I have seventeen "one and done" watches.

[@martinkaplan1805]

Hah! Me too.

[@davidr2802]

the toughest collection to edit is one made up of one and done watches.

[@edwardchang2210]

@@davidr2802 I read that we're biologically wired to be polygamous with watches and women because of evolution

[@edwardchang2210]

@@davidr2802 I read that men are biologically wired to be polygamous with watches and women because of evolution.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Just one more beer. 😂

[@draakisback]

My one and done watch for the longest time was a vacheron overseas dual timer which I got from my grandfather. Now of course I'm in the hobby so I've got roughly 12 different watches but the overseas is definitely a watch that doesn't disappoint.

[@h-squad1772]

I think there's a grand difference between an enthusiast and a collector. One can be both but being one doesn't automatically entitle you to the other. For example, I am an aircraft and flight enthusiast but I do not own a pilot's license nor an airplane. On the other hand, I am a guitar enthusiast, I love the instrument, AND I collect and own close to 20 guitars. Another example, I love cars as an enthusiast but I drive a 2009 City Golf while I googoo-eye my neighbours Rolls Royce collection. The only overlapping quality of either is knowledge - both an enthusiast and a collector can have the same knowledge.

[@paulflis4127]

Wild that you mentioned MONTA. I just went to a WWII museum show sponsored by a jewelry shop and they had MONTA watches with their rep present from St. Louis. Made in Switzerland but packaged and shipped in the U.S.

[@ScandzaVaeringjar]

One watch? Barbarians!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

I know, right ? 😂

[@jcg5280]

It's always great to see your reviews! I appreciate you breaking down each category... agree with what you said about AP and the hype around it!

[@AZadeh-nd8vx]

I collect One and Done watches 😂 but the Rolex Submariner is definitely the best One and Done watch IMO. Followed closely by a Datejust, Aqua Terra or Tudor Black Bay

[@seanpham67]

Nice Collection. Which colors you got for DJ and AT? For me it’s my Aqua Terra. Followed by my Speedy, OP36 and Black Bay 54.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

😂

[@AZadeh-nd8vx]

@seanpham67 I have a blue dial Datejust 41 and I used to have the green 41mm AT, but i sold it on. I miss that watch!

[@seanpham67]

@@AZadeh-nd8vx Oh you sold your beautiful AT? Why? Let me guess it wore heavier compared to the DJ41. For the AT I would always recommend the 38 mm version.

[@AZadeh-nd8vx]

@seanpham67 not that ot wore heavy, it was more the sharpness of the bracelet and lack of micro adjust. I dont get why Omega make suck sharp edges on their AT 41mm and Seamaster 300m 42mm - so easy to make it a bit smoother

[@johanvandersandt8904]

I recently came back from vacation in Kwazulu -Natal and I took literally an hour to decide which watches to take. One and done is a concept that I cannot fathom haha! If I had to pick one for budget I would go Citizen Series 8 or an Promaster variant, Luxury maybe Oris Pro Pilot or Longines Heritage Moon phase and in the microbrand category I would go Lorier Neptune. Hope you are doing well Mike!

[@MaxxSeemov]

The CW Bel Canto belongs in the quirky and watch nerd category. Not sure they are one and done but they are sure conversation starters. As always, you make fantastic informative videos.

[@corychecketts]

Solid recommendations. My go-to watch is my 1861 Speedmaster on a NATO. I’ve worn it to weddings and backcountry hikes. It’s super versatile if you don’t mind it getting some patina. For water activities I have a G-Shock.

[@ggez5890]

3 watches in so far. A Timex expedition (needed something for work and travel and didn't know anything about watches), the Titanium field watch from The Ridge(couldn't afford the watch I wanted and wasnt sure about mechanical movements... And i like ridge products so why not). Last watch is the Hamilton khaki Auto 42mm (first swiss dream watch)

[@fabian530]

Great one and done watch under 1000 bucks: Astor and Banks Fortitude Pro. I’ve been wearing mine every day for the last 4 months. Sporty, versatile design with a great bracelet, solid movement and overall great quality for the price

[@cjr1324]

I would love to have viewed this video several years ago when my watch enthusiast journey started. This sets a logical framework for how to think about the type of buyer you are and the brands to consider for what you’re trying to accomplish. Nice job.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Time to invent time travel to erase all mistakes 😀