Overrated Watches: Is Yours On The List?

What’s happening, {{first name|Watch Nerds}}!?

The last few editions of the newsletter were super fun. Now we’re back to your regularly scheduled format!

Yeah, you heard Snoop. Today we are talking about the most overrated watches. The watches that you see EVERYWHERE. The watches where the dude wearing them is like, “Yeah, I’m into watches. Check this out.” Only to show you a super common, unoriginal watch.

So don’t be a poser (can we still say that?) and let’s dive right in!

This is perhaps THE most overrated watch. That’s why it’s the first on the list. The Rolex Submariner. In fact, we just talked about it last week…

Many of you know (and sigh) that I enjoy Rolex. That’s pretty much true, except for this watch. I just don’t get it…

Here are three reasons why this watch is overrated:

Price vs. Performance: While the Submariner is undoubtedly a high-quality watch, many argue that its price far exceeds its actual performance and features. There are tons of other dive watches on the market that offer similar specifications at a fraction of the cost. (This watch may be technically superior at $5,900)

Ubiquity: The Sub is one of the most recognized (and imitated) watches in the world. Its widespread popularity makes it feel less unique and special. This makes some view it as a cliché status symbol rather than a high-end watch.

Secondary Market Inflation: Probably my biggest reason. The high demand and limited supply of the Submariner have led to significant price increases in the secondary market. This “scarcity” can make the watch seem more desirable than it is, driving up prices and fueling perceptions of overvaluation.

This specific watch (shown above) is downright hideous. Not my cup of tea. Like the Sub, I just don’t get it. I don’t get Tag Heuer, period. None of their watches are my style. (but I totally respect if they’re yours)

Yet I still see these pretty frequently, more specifically, the Formula 1. If you’re into “racing watches,” check out this article by Teddy.

Here are three reasons why this watch is overrated:

Price vs. Value: The Formula 1 series is overpriced for what it offers. There are other brands and models that provide better value for money, offering superior build quality and features at similar or lower prices. For $2,400, you are getting a Quartz watch here! No thanks.

Brand Perception: The Formula 1 line relies heavily on the brand’s association with motorsports and not the qualities of the watch itself. This makes the watch feel more like a marketing product than a watch. I don’t like racing → I don’t like this watch.

Marketing Over Substance: Similar to the Rolex Submariner, the Formula 1 series is heavily marketed. This makes me think that the watch is more about branding and image than actual watchmaking quality.

What’s the deal with Breitling? (in my best Jerry Seinfeld voice, because he’s a huge brand advocate).

This is another watch that I just don’t get. I’m starting to think that maybe I’m the problem…

The Breitling Navitimer. How the hell do you read this thing? What is going on? I’m immediately overwhelmed by the amount of numbers and lines on this watch and I get distracted.

Complex Dial: The Navitimer's intricate dial, with its numerous markings and slide rule, can be seen as overly busy and difficult to read. While it's a distinctive feature, it makes the watch less practical for everyday use compared to simpler designs.

Niche Appeal: The Navitimer's specific focus on aviation is very niche. For those not interested in aviation or the technical aspects of the watch, the Navitimer may seem unnecessarily complex and expensive. ($9,450)

Functionality Redundancy: While the slide rule is a unique feature, it is largely obsolete in the age of digital calculators and modern technology. For many wearers, this feature is more of a novelty than a practical tool. You have to not only learn how to use it, but then you must actually use it. No thanks.

All watches are great watches. If you own any of these (or want to someday), that’s awesome. You should own it and wear it proudly. The three watches that we discussed today just aren’t for me.

I think watches should be about showing off your personality and setting yourself apart from everyone. And IMO, these are the opposite. (vote in the poll at the bottom to tell me which is the MOST overrated watch)

I’d love to know your thoughts on this. Heck, reply to this email and tell me that I’m an idiot and got it all wrong. Tell me that the Formula 1 is the best watch ever created. (I bet you won’t!)

Unrelated, here’s three cringy-worthy (yet banger) songs about being overrated and unoriginal:

That’s all for today! Are there any other watches that you think are overrated? Should I write another article like this in the future? Let me know!

Thanks for taking time out of your busy day to read Own The Watch.

This newsletter has grown SO MUCH over the last 6 months. I seriously can’t believe it. I never thought I would have thousands of watch nerds read this every week.

As always, you are an awesome human being and wear a watch that shows off your amazing personality. See you next time!

Wear it well and wear it often,

~Ian

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