Back in September, I picked up this vintage Caravelle from the Elephant’s Trunk flea market in Connecticut. It was running, and only $20. I grabbed it.

I really like this style of watch, and this was way more affordable than a vintage Omega.

I brought it to a well-regarded watchmaker in NYC’s Diamond district. They gave it a complete overhaul and a new crystal. I added a more modern strap. It still had the original, but it was very thin and dated looking.

It doesn’t show a model name or number. It just says “shock proof” and “anti magnetic” on the case back. It’s a manual wind movement.

I had been looking a vintage Omegas in a similar style, but for the cost of the watch and the service…this is a really good place holder that will scratch that itch for a while.

I figure with the price of the watch, service, and new strap…I’m at about $400. I know they aren’t rare or expensive watches, and I’m at or above the market price of buying one in this condition. But this wasn’t an investment. I wanted this watch, and I got it the way I wanted it. Sometimes, it’s okay to be at or slightly above market price for something you really want. This one is in the “never sell” category.

Of course you’re a watch collector. I have some $2 flea market Timexes in my collection.

It’s not about price…it’s about collecting something that gives you joy.

Some people collect Ferraris….some people collect Pez dispensers.

Cheapest that I bought new? $11 Walmart clearance Casio Duro

Cheapest overall? $2 Timex Explorer from a flea market

By contrast, my most expensive watch is a Marathon GSAR (About $1600)

A Rolex Milgauss in blue……and unless I got the lottery or get a huge inheritance, no, I’ll probably never get it. I just don’t have the kind of income to justify it.

A more attainable option would be a Fortis Marinemaster. Maybe as a retirement gift to myself.

Yep. I’m the opposite though. I get much more excited about a Fortis Marinemaster than I do a Rolex Submariner.