Vintage vs Reissue watches

Was wondering what you guys thought about this. Many times we see various reissue versions
of some of the coolest vintage watches of the past. They often update size, looks, movements
etc., but how do they really compare to the original vintage watches when all is said, and done ?
Which are you more likely to see in your collection at some point ? Vintage, or Reissue, and why ?

great question tom, although i like some vintage watches, i dont like the size. so i would have to go with reissued watches that keep the original look but update the size and materials. steve

I like the look but like Steve said, they need to be at LEAST 40mm to even consider...

Tom - I acutally really like both. There are a bunch of vintage watches that are in the 40mm+ range that I love. A good example is the Aquastar Benthos...42mm of pure badness!!



Full specs:

Case Diameter: 42 mm
Case Height: 15.5 mm
Case length: 43 mm
Lug Width: 20.5 mm
Movement: Modified A.Schild AS2162 with 60 min flyback dive
timer. 25j, automatic, 21,600 bph, 45 hr power reserve
Case material: Stainless steel, one piece design
Crown: Screw down
Bezel: Uni-directional, indexed w/60 clicks
Water resistance: 1000 meters
Vintage: 1980 (approx)

A good example of a "new vintage" is the Omega Seamaster 300 that

Watchco makes. Made with OM Omega parts for the 300 and Omega considers it an Omega for service... 41.5mm good size IMO

Probably reissues. . . one of my favorites (not really a reissue, but very close to a Heuer from the early 30's:

Reissues - mainly for size reasons.
Minimum 44mm for me.
And not nearly enough available IMO.

Great question, Tom.

For me, it depends on the watch. With regard to the Heuer Autavia, I prefer the reissue (which I bought) to the original:






But in the case of the Accutron Astronaut, the original wins hands down, due to both its iconic status and its tuning fork movement (vs. automatic in the reissue):

I often like the re-issues due to size and updated styling. Also that you can get them new.

Both. I have a few vintage Seikos that i love, especially the larger Bullhead and UFO chrono. There's alot of older models I'd love to have if they were reissued as a larger model.

I have to say 'both' as well......I like the originals, but often times a reissue make more sense.

Thanks so much for ALL of your opinions, different point of views, and information everybody !
I kind of have to go with both too. The reissues are great for all of the reasons you already pointed
out. Plus it's just neat to see an older watch make a return in a newer updated form. At the same
time there is just something special about vintage watches with their original craftsmanship, and
charm. Either way it's a win win imho.

Thanks again everyone, and thanks to Mark, Chris, and Tom for the PICS, and info as well !

I've wanted a really Cherry Heuer Jo Siffert for a few years but I think I'm over it almost - sticking to the re-edition. At least for now.

You may still get that vintage Heuer some day Waruilewi ! ..This Tag here is a REAL stunner
by the way sir. Beautiful watch, and picture !!! Thank you !