IWC and alternatives

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I may be in the market for a watch soon. This does depend on work paying out a bonus that I have met the criteria for but they have previously wormed their way out of. Budget is around $4-5k and I'm thinking second hand offers better value and less depreciation.
I would say that I typically don't like busy watches but this caught my eye



As you can see, busy. But, to the point, are IWC a brand that is worth investing in? I'm not expecting to make money but don't want to lose a fortune when it comes time to sell. I need a relatively understated watch that can be worn in business and casually. For sports I will stick to the G-Shock. I like the idea of a Panerai but I couldn't wear it for work. An IWC I could wear without people paying too much attention.

So where would you spend you $4-5k budget?

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Got a link?

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PJ S said:

Don't like fussy/busy, want something understated/under the radar – Grand Seiko is the answer, from a US dealer or Japan.
Personally I'd wait until you're sure you have money to spend, before getting yourself all worked up about what to spend it on.

I have some money already set aside for a rainy day so this thread really is trying to push me to make a purchase. My biggest issue is that I can't make my mind up. 6 years ago I wanted a Tag Carrera at $2k. Now they are closer to $4k.
If anyone comes up with a watch I fall in love with I will buy even if the bonus doesn't come in. I will just have more explaining to do with my wife

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I already have a Tissot Quadrato which has been through the wars several times. The last repair was as much as the watch cost me. But, I bought it on my honeymoon and it was broken by my 2 year old son as we introduced him to his baby sister. I couldn't not repair it!

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andy tims said:

I prefer the earlier 3717 pilots chrono



but there are loads of alternatives so have a good look on Chrono24 to get some ideas

I think I agree with you. This doesn't help though as it is fundamentally the issue I'm having. I can't commit. Others have brought up good points regarding the movement I do feel like it's the equivalent of Aston Martin using a Ford engine. The watch I end up with should represent the brand's in house skill. I would prefer it to be an in house movement but can accept a modified ETA.

Quite honestly, it looks like the Seiko meets all my criteria the most and can justify their premium price. But, it's not the watch I anticipated when I started this search years ago. I always end up at this point and as a result I'm sat here wearing a G-Shock.

Having said all that the JLC looks appealing but my budget is in dollars and is capped at $5k. I don't think there is one out there for me.

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sleep envy said:

2nd hand unworn JLC master compressor chronograph 2.

Me again. I have been checking in with Chrono24 but have not seen any at the price you suggested. Can you link for me?

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9 months?!?!?

I was considering this one JLC going cheap but with the worst photos I have ever seen in an add

Light wear but average condition and broken strap do not all tie together to me.




The plan was to buy it and send it off for refurb but if it takes 9 months I will have spent enough money on a watch to piss my wife off and have nothing to show for it.