christianch
3725
Thanks for the wonderful analysis 👏but I thought pricing discussion were not welcome in the forum 🤭
Aug 05, 2023,09:22 AM
Hello Patrick,
Thanks for sharing your insightful analysis; it certainly provides much food for thought. I'm aware that pricing discussions are typically seen as a bit of a taboo in this forum 🤭, but since I personally find them fascinating, you'll hear no complaints from me 😅.
Recently becoming an owner of the Laurent Ferrier Sport Auto, I find other offers of integrated bracelet watches seeming like bargains in comparison (a potential new topic of discussion, perhaps? 😅). That said, you raise some astute points, particularly concerning the movement aspect.
In light of current pricing trends, the IWC Ingenieur appears to be quite reasonably priced, in my view. It was rather amusing to see comments suggesting its worth caps at 8K. I find this slightly ironic considering someone willing to shell out 8K for a watch probably wouldn't balk at spending 11K.
On the subject of the Mark, it is indeed a different beast. It lacks the Gerald Genta vibes, so despite its movement, it doesn't quite mesh with the sport, integrated bracelet line. While the past iterations of the Mark weren't equipped with 100 Mt water resistance, the latest changes could indeed create some overlap.
When it comes to comparing the Bulgari and the Alpine Eagle, there are significant differences. I adore the Bulgari Octo Finissimo, but its main advantage - its slim profile - can also be its Achilles heel. Its lightness can be off-putting for some.
The Chopard design, too, stands in its own category. In a general sense, I wouldn't classify any of these watches as "bargains", but if one manages to snag a Rolex Submariner from an Authorized Dealer (AD), it is undoubtedly a great purchase.
Considering how challenging it is to acquire a Submariner from an AD, it seems like IWC has played their cards right. I haven't had the opportunity to see the watch in person as I have plenty of integrated bracelet watches (Including a Submariner WG which, frankly is amazing. Nothing to say about the quality of the Submariner which is just perfect).
The risk with the IWC Ingenieur and other new entrants into the integrated bracelet category is that they may fall short of matching the desire for the real deal, be it Rolex, AP, or even Patek. Despite the price tag, I'd rather play the long game and hold out for the true classics.
In my book, settling for a standard movement has always been a non-starter.
Christian