This edition of Editor’s Picks is slightly different than usual. We’ve still selected three watches from different categories and described why we consider them to be great timepieces; however, this week, we’ve focused on watches that have maintained very stable prices even in these turbulent times. Included in our choices are a watch priced under $5,000, a timepiece for true watch enthusiasts, and an industry legend. So, without further ado, let’s look at our three selections for this week’s special Editor’s Picks.
Daily Drivers: Great Watches for Under 5,000 Euros
Omega Speedmaster Professional (311.30.42.30.01.005)
What can we say about the Omega Speedmaster that has not already been said a million times? It’s a timepiece that could easily fit into any Editor’s Picks category. It is one of the most recognizable watches of all time, the watch that went to the Moon, and it’s been in production with only minor changes for over 60 years. The Speedmaster is a legendary watch and even more importantly, it is still relatively affordable for many. If you buy an Omega Speedmaster Professional, you’re getting a beautiful 42-mm steel chronograph with a black dial, three subdials, and a tachymeter bezel. The timepiece is powered by a hand-wound movement, and current versions come with an amazingly cool box. Furthermore, according to our Chrono24 data, it has shown rock solid price stability for the last 3 months or so. Don’t believe me? Check out the latest reference (311.30.42.30.01.005) in the Chrono24 Watch Collection and see for yourself how stable prices have been despite all that has been going on.
Enthusiast’s Corner: Rare or Exceptional Timepieces
Rolex Explorer II 16570
The Rolex Explorer II spent many years not getting the attention it deserves. Watch enthusiasts seemed to look down upon it for some reason. To be fair, there is something quite quirky about it. Perhaps it is the fact that it fits somewhere in between the Submariner and GMT-Master. Or maybe it’s the steel bezel? I’m not quite sure. In any case, it was a sleeper Rolex. Lately, however, it seems that people have come to their senses and realized just how awesome a watch it is. That being said, the Rolex Explorer II 16570 is still flying under the radar. It has great wrist presence at 40 mm, a useful GMT complication, and two dial variations to choose from: black or white. What more could a watch fan possibly ask for? Well, perhaps a stable price. The Explorer II has that too! Chrono24’s data show that prices for this particular reference are anchored around the $6,500 mark. I’m not sure what the future holds for the Rolex Explorer II, but so far, things are looking promising.
Iconic Timepieces: Great Value for Your Money
Rolex Air-King 116900
The Rolex Air-King ref. 116900 is quite possibly the least flashy sports watch Rolex has ever created. Although we are talking about a new reference here, the Air-King line is anything but new. It has been part of the Rolex portfolio since the end of World War II. However, we’re not focusing on the history of this great model here but rather on the latest version. The Air-King 116900 is determined to show the watch world it is a timepiece worthy of our attention. What better way to prove that than with remarkable price stability? It is fascinating to look at its performance over time despite so many years of neglect. The Rolex Air-King costs roughly the same amount as an early Submariner 14060 (although the Sub can get significantly more expensive). Even if its look might not be everyone’s favorite, its prices are a great indicator that the Air-King 116900 is on its way to becoming a classic.
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