boolala

I had a local jeweler (who is an authorized dealer) match an internet price on a Tag.

vtach88

Sell a couple Cartier's and move up in the watch world with a hand made gem from Jaeger-LeCoultre. Truly classy, relatively uncommon, and will satisfy most connoisseurs.....

B-Line

SilverSteel, if you can't get a discount on Rolex, who every you are buying from is ripping you off. I can get 30% discount on Rolex all day long from authorized AD's. Panerai's are a little harder because most dealers do not have a large quantities of stock. Having said that, unless it is a Panerai "SPECIAL EDITION" you can still get 10% off from the right AD.

Just stop buying watches from Tourneau and you will stop getting raped. Always buy your watch out of state to avoid on taxes as well.
It's watch buying 101..
B

H20NOO

This site has an excellent selection of new and pre-owned high quality time pieces at exceptional discounts relative to full retail. Plus, if you don't live in Texas you probably won't pay sales tax.

http://www.tic-tock.com/

djantlive

For sport watch, Omega Seamaster (New) or Rolex Sub (a pre own one w warranty or get deep discount).

For dress watch, Cartier.

allegretto

Late model Rolex Explorer 1 lightly used can be had. Much more discrete than virtually anything else being spoken of. No date, so if you feel the need for that you need something else. The reason I mention this one however is because I think it looks very nice on smaller wrists. Easily readable and recognizable as Rolex, but not a confusing function laden dial like many chronos.

If you really like a chrono, check out one of the Chopard Mile Miglias. I have the set and these watches have many positive attributes;
a) easy reading and functioning dial
b) nice size without being too big
c) great band. takes sweat and elements and still looks nice. the stitching matches the specific face color in the colored ones. I believe the black one can be had with a replica tire tread on the band
d) incredible timepiece. all five of mine keep quartz-like time but are fine automatics with see through (sapphire) backs
e) rugged. i race, play golf, tennis and they dont miss a beat
f) very water resistant. most chronos say they are, but in truth you cant go out in more than a rainstorm with them
g) personal prefs here, but I think they are one of the prettiest chronos out there in that price class.
h) date, though I think that is unnecessary on a chrono. this is at least a small one hat minimally detracts from the beauty.

OK, I'll shut up now...

rcg412

Yeah - there arent any good watches for 2k..........

SYMA

Here is my 2 month old Panerai Luminor Marina Logo.

rome

If you really want to stay under $3K I think people who are recommending Rolex or Panerai are a little off base-- new models of those are between $4-5K. Plus, those are large watches, especially the Panerai and the Rolex sport watches like the Submariner, GMT or Explorer II.

Omega makes the Speedmaster in a mid-size model an it's a really nice watch for the money, and in your price range. (It is mechanical, but I do not believe they make a self winding version). Also, it is a classic sport watch which may be a good compliment to the more "dressy" watches you already have.

mdrums

Check out Breitling in the 3-4K. There is not much in the 2K or so price point. Of all the watches I own my Breitlings are the most useful and fun. My 2nd choice would be Panerai. I can say Breitling service in the USA is awesome and Omega was like dealing with a Chevy dealer...plain horrible with not respect all 2 times I sent in my Omega's for service.

jpcourt

How about a TAG Carrera, about $2200 and a very nice watch for the money.

Chris C.

I second the Tag recommendation - you can find legit (w serial numbers) new Tag Carreras for approx $1500 online.

D-Train

Explorer 1 is the way to go. I bought mine a few years ago, it was difficult to obtain at the time. The watch had renewed popularity b/c Jackie Chan wore it in one of his movies. I don't wear mine anymore since I bought my SS Daytona.

I would try ebay, you can find older Exploer 1's which you should be able to purchase with your $2K.

Good Luck

THPorsche

If you are looking for something different, try this:

http://www.jeandeve.ch/en/collections.html

billco

I know it's more than you planned to spend, but if I were you, I would do what ever possible to step up to a Rolex Stainless Steel Submariner, even I you have to get a slightly used one. This is the coolest, most versatile time piece you could ever own. You can wear this watch with a tux, or a swim suite. Take proper care of it and you can pass it down to your grandson. I own a dozen great watches and find myself wearing the Sub far more than any of the others. Good luck! Let us know what you end up with.