Retirement Gift

[loosemarbles]

One of my non-exec's is retiring this year, having been on the board since the late 80's but having been around the business for 40+ years in different capacities. That kind of loyalty is rare, and he has definitely been there for the business and the family (the business is a 100+ year family business).

I've been charged with getting a gift, a watch, and whilst have it narrowed down a metal strap, no bigger than 42mm. He often has charitable trips to make, so whilst he make not wear it all the time, it can't be too obvious, so elegance important, suitable for a 70+ y/o.

I was thinking a Longine or Grand Seiko, but neither quite hit the spot. Any suggestions? Thinking somewhere the £2,500-£4,000 territory

Edited by loosemarbles on Tuesday 14th May 11:07

[CrippsCorner]

What about a TAG Calibre 5? They have a number of different colours and sizes around the £3,000 mark...

[blue_haddock]

Something like a Tudor Royale would be in budget and a nice looking dressy watch.

[Geertsen]

My initial instinct would be a Tudor Black Bay 58 (M79030B-0001). May not fit the ‘elegance’ brief though but a lovely timeless watch.

£3,450



Or the slightly bigger Tudor M79230B-008 with black dial.

£3,550

[Geertsen]

For true elegance an IWC Portofino IW356501 is an idea. Not a metal bracelet but the benefit of this is that it can be worn immediately without having to take it back to the jewellers to be sized upon receiving it. Slightly over budget too at £4,450 but a top quality watch, understated and effortlessly stylish.

[James_N]

Geertsen said:

For true elegance an IWC Portofino IW356501 is an idea. Not a metal bracelet but the benefit of this is that it can be worn immediately without having to take it back to the jewellers to be sized upon receiving it. Slightly over budget too at £4,450 but a top quality watch, understated and effortlessly stylish.

That's really lovely!

[loosemarbles]

Geertsen said:

For true elegance an IWC Portofino IW356501 is an idea. Not a metal bracelet but the benefit of this is that it can be worn immediately without having to take it back to the jewellers to be sized upon receiving it. Slightly over budget too at £4,450 but a top quality watch, understated and effortlessly stylish.

Thanks. That is it! Done. Cheers

[Geertsen]

loosemarbles said:

Geertsen said:

For true elegance an IWC Portofino IW356501 is an idea. Not a metal bracelet but the benefit of this is that it can be worn immediately without having to take it back to the jewellers to be sized upon receiving it. Slightly over budget too at £4,450 but a top quality watch, understated and effortlessly stylish.

Thanks. That is it! Done. Cheers

That’s fantastic, glad I could help. And great to hear of your generosity to your board member. Sounds like you are both very loyal.

[hilly10]

loosemarbles said:

Thanks. That is it! Done. Cheers

Great choice, loved mine

[glazbagun]

I'd also suggest the Aqua Terra (220.13.41.21.03.001, or the black dial) from Omega as a more durable alternative to the IWC. Could probably haggle a discount to bring it into budget.



From a consumer POV though the IWC seems to grab the ground the Constellation used to dominate. The new prices are just crazy!