wearingtime

WHY THIS WATCH 

The Cartier Tank Francaise, introduced in 1996, is a modern reinterpretation of the iconic Cartier Tank, which dates back to 1917. The original Tank, designed by Louis Cartier, was inspired by the geometric lines and symmetry of WWI military tanks. The Tank Francaise retains the signature rectangular case but introduces a more pronounced, curved shape and integrated bracelet, enhancing its elegance and refinement. The watch features Roman numerals, a railway minute track, and blue sword-shaped hands, preserving Cartier's unique aesthetic. Over the years, the Tank Francaise has been offered in various sizes and materials, solidifying its status as a versatile and enduring timepiece with a rich history rooted in both horology and art.

 

The Cartier Tank Francaise 2303, introduced in the late 1990s, is a notable variation of the Tank Francaise line. This model features a two-tone stainless steel and gold case and bracelet, combining elegance with a modern, sporty touch. The 2303 is a chronograph, offering additional functionality beyond the classic Tank Francaise's time-only display. It retains key design elements such as the rectangular case, Roman numerals, blue sword-shaped hands, and the iconic cabochon sapphire on the crown. Powered by a reliable ETA-based movement, the Tank Francaise 2303 showcases Cartier's ability to fuse classic design with contemporary features, contributing to the enduring appeal of the Tank Francaise family.

 

The Cartier Tank Francaise 2303 is an outstanding watch because it combines the timeless elegance of the Tank design with modern features and sporty elements. The stainless steel case and bracelet strike a balance between sophistication and contemporary appeal. As a chronograph, the 2303 offers enhanced functionality, making it both practical and versatile. The watch stays true to Cartier's signature design with its rectangular case, Roman numerals, blue sword-shaped hands, and cabochon sapphire crown. Its connection to the iconic Tank line and the unique blend of classic and modern aesthetics make the Tank Francaise 2303 a distinct and attractive timepiece.

 

The Cartier Tank Francaise 2303 is powered by an ETA-based quartz movement, known for its reliability and precision. The automatic chronograph caliber provides timekeeping and stopwatch functions, offering practicality and versatility. The movement is designed for durability, ensuring consistent performance in this elegant, sporty timepiece.

 

I really enjoyed wearing this watch despite it being quartz. There's something about that classic Roman Numeral Cartier dial that is so timeless. I would say this watch wears like a 36-38mm watch, though that's not an entirely apt comparison because of the case shape. I will say most ladies also really enjoy wearing this watch as it fits their wrist as well. An overall fantastic watch that's on the dressier side, with a chronograph and a date complication.

 

 

THE LITTLE DETAILS

Watch was fully serviced in 2022 by our watchmaker and is running flawlessly without issues. The bracelet will fit up to a 7.0-inch wrist. The case and bracelet are in overall excellent condition, with only minor wear, around 9/10. Crystal and dial are clean. Comes with a Cartier box only.

Available for Pickup in our Showroom in Mclean, Virginia 

Want to see this watch in person? We are located in Mclean Virginia off of Chain Bridge Road. We are by appointment only (no walk ins), so please shoot us an email to schedule a time and get the address. 

 

WHY THIS WATCH

 

The Corum Bubble made huge waves when it was introduced at BaselWorld in the year 2000. The watch was inspired by Severin Wunderman, a very creative entreprenuer who purchased the Corum company at the time of the Bubble's introduction. The huge domed sapphire crystal of the Bubble is inspired by the domed crystals of deep sea diver's watches. 

This particular reference shows off a stunning factory set diamond bezel and diamond dial with a total of 239 diamonds (1.27 carrots). 

On the wrist, this is a big imposing watch, with huge presence. The crystal gives this cool distortion effect to the diamond numerals. 

 

THE LITTLE DETAILS Watch is 45mm and is in overall excellent condition with wear from normal use on the case. All diamonds on this watch are factory set, 239 diamonds,  1.27 carats total. Comes with original set of box and papers. Comes on 2 hand-made Stingray Straps pictured (aftermarket). Reference is 63.157.47/F403. Original retail is $10,000. 

Available for Pickup in our Showroom in Mclean, Virginia 

Want to see this watch in person? We are located in Mclean Virginia off of Chain Bridge Road. We are by appointment only (no walk ins), so please shoot us an email to schedule a time and get the address. 

 

WHY THIS WATCH

A very off-the-beaten path reference from Dunhill. This watch is housed in a solid 18K gold case, and features a gorgeous dial with juicy arabic numerals and a pointer date track. The pointer date can be adjusted via the button below the crown. This watch is 40mm in diameter and 12.5mm thick. This watch is limited to 500 pieces worldwide. 

On the wrist, this 40mm watch fits very well, as the gold nails the watch to my wrist. At 12.5mm, the watch is not too thick either. I love this dial, it's very clean and there's something very British about it that I can't put my finger on. The pointer date is truly useful and easy to read on the fly. This is a very obscure reference that not many people will recognize, which is one my favorite things about this watch. 

THE LITTLE DETAILS Watch is in overall excellent condition with some wear on the sides of the case and on the deployment buckle, around 8.5/10. Leather strap has some wear, its around 7/10. Watch comes with the original dunhill outer box, and inner metal box pictured. Watch comes on the factory dark brown alligator strap, and factory solid 18k gold deployment buckle. 
 

Available for Pickup in our Showroom in Mclean, Virginia 

Want to see this watch in person? We are located in Mclean Virginia off of Chain Bridge Road. We are by appointment only (no walk ins), so please shoot us an email to schedule a time and get the address. 

 

WHY THIS WATCH A surprising offering from Fortis, which is known for making sporty chronographs. The Fortis Terrestis a refreshingly simple time and date only watch, with a very graceful and elegant design. The Grey dial shows off some beautiful rose-gold plated batons and a nicely stepped second sub-dial at 6. The teardrop lugs are a welcome design element and make the watch all the more comfortable. At 40mm and only 10mm thick, this watch will slip under any cuff. Inside you've got a bulletproof ETA 2895-2. It's not decorated like a Patek, but it is a reliable workhorse movement that enables this watch to be at a reasonable price-point. 

 

THE LITTLE DETAILS

Watch is Brand new, never worn, with sticker still on the back. Comes with Box, tags, manual, and unfilled warranty card. 

Available for Pickup in our Showroom in Mclean, Virginia 
Want to see this watch in person? We are located in Mclean Virginia off of Chain Bridge Road. We are by appointment only (no walk ins), so please shoot us an email to schedule a time and get the address. 

WHY THIS WATCH

Founded in 1960, Grand Seiko has gone through many changes an evolutions over the last 6 decades. At last, it seems like the latest offerings from Grand Seiko are serious contenders for the Swiss alternatives. 

 

This particular Grand Seiko Spring Drives takes it's inspiration from nature. The dial is inspired Lake Suwa in Japan. The lake goes through a deep freeze in the winter giving it the same icy blue, rippled look as the dial. Along the case, you'll find the same zaratsu finish that made Grand Seiko famous. At 38.5mm in diameter and 10.2mm thick, this watch is going to fit most people like a glove. 

 

This watch is powered by the SpringDrive reference 9R31, which has a 72 hour power reserve and was set to +or- 1 second a day from the factory.  The back is nicely finished in the utilitarian style that has become the trademark of Grand Seiko. 

 

On the wrist, this watch is really all dial. Besides the amazing fit, the dial jumps out as the distinguishing feature, changing color and texture depending on the lighting. The Black strap has blue stitching on the sides, probably the ideal combination for this watch. Honestly, this one might unseat the Grand Seiko Snowflake as the ultimate. Retail price is $8,300. 

THE LITTLE DETAILS Watch was purchased from an AD in 2021. Watch is Near Mint, worn only a handful of times, and comes with the full set of box, manual and paperwork, including warranty card from August 2021. The case and black strap are all around 95%. 

Available for Pickup in our Showroom in Mclean, Virginia 

Want to see this watch in person? We are located in Mclean Virginia off of Chain Bridge Road. We are by appointment only (no walk ins), so please shoot us an email to schedule a time and get the address. 

 

AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEE

All of our watches are inspected by a qualified professional and are guaranteed to be Authentic. Every watch we sell goes through a Multi-Point Inspection to ensure the watch is Genuine. We are a brick and mortar storefront located in Virginia, with over 5 years in business, feel free to check out our reviews online via our website, on eBay, and Chrono24. 

HASSLE-FREE RETURNS

 

All watches sold online come with our 3 Day Unconditional Money Back Guarantee. The watch can be returned for any reason 3 days following delivery and all you'll be responsible for is shipping fees. Note that the watch must be returned in the same condition to qualify for a full refund. 

THE LITTLE DETAILS

 

Case:	Factory G. Seiko Case	Near Mint
Bracelet:	Factory G. Seiko Bracelet	Near Mint
Bezel:	Factory G. Seiko CERAMIC Bezel	Near Mint
Dial:	Factory G. Seiko Dial	Near Mint
Movement:	Factory G. Seiko Spring Drive  Movement	Near Mint
Box/Papers:	Outer and Inner G. Seiko Boxes, G. Seiko Warranty Card, G. Seiko Manuals
Overall:	Near Mint, 9.7/10	Watch is Near Mint, with only very minor wear. Watch was purchased in 2020 and worn only a handful of times
Sizing:	40.5MM	40.5MM is considered MEDIUM/LARGE for men. This watch will fit the average wrist perfectly.

SHOWROOM IN MCLEAN, VA - LOCAL PICKUP AVAILABLE  Want to see this watch in person? We are located in Mclean Virginia off of Chain Bridge Road. We are by appointment only (no walk ins), so please shoot us an email to schedule a time and get the address. 

 

WHY THIS WATCH

 

Grand Seiko, renowned for its exquisite case finishing, intricate dial textures, and innovative movements like the Spring Drive and hi-beat, has also garnered attention for producing sizable sports watches. While models such as the SBGC231 Spring Drive chronograph and the SBGJ239 hi-beat GMT are undeniably stunning, they exceed 44mm, categorizing them as "big" timepieces. However, in the fall of 2020, Grand Seiko responded to this by unveiling a set of more compact sports watches: the SBGE253, 255, and 257.

 

The latest 40.5mm Spring Drive GMT boasts superior finishing, features an elegant ceramic bezel, and offers 200M water resistance. It operates as a genuine GMT with an independent hour hand and comes with a newly designed bracelet. The bracelet is a significant improvement, complete with a micro-adjust clasp.

 

 

THE LITTLE DETAILS Introduced in 1925, the Gruen Quadron features a rectangular case with recessed crown. 15 Jewel manual winding Gruen movement is running strong. Case measures 24mm Wide by 38mm Long.

WHY THIS WATCH

This beautiful chronograph has hands inspired by the batons of an orchestra conductor. It's topped with a gorgeous blue dial that has a wonderful sheen, especially in direct light. At 41mm, this watch fits more like a 40mm due to the compact lugs. Inside we have the Hamilton H-21 chronograph movement, which has an extended power reserve of 60 hours. This is a fantastic chronograph in the sub $1,000 range. 

 

THE LITTLE DETAILS Watch is 2021, and a one owner watch in Near Mint condition with only the lightest wear from being tried on. Comes with Box and Papers. 

Available for Pickup in our Showroom in Mclean, Virginia 

Want to see this watch in person? We are located in Mclean Virginia off of Chain Bridge Road. We are by appointment only (no walk ins), so please shoot us an email to schedule a time and get the address. 

 

WHY THIS WATCH

For many of us, the IWC Big Pilot was always a watch we wanted, yet at 46mm it was prohibitively big. The new 43mm Big Pilot solves this problem, and throws in an in-house movement, and IWC's clever strap changing system which allows you to change the strap with literally the press of a button.

 

THE LITTLE DETAILS

Watch was only worn a handful of times and is in Near Mint condition, see pictures. The watch was purchased in 2021 and still under IWC warranty for 7 years. Comes with box papers and stamped warranty card. Please note there is one additional hole punched in the leather strap, see picture. 

 

Available for Pickup in our Showroom in Mclean, Virginia 

Want to see this watch in person? We are located in Mclean Virginia off of Chain Bridge Road. We are by appointment only (no walk ins), so please shoot us an email to schedule a time and get the address. 

 

100% Authenticity Guarantee

We are a brick and mortar store in Mclean Virginia with over 10 years experience in Luxury Watches. All of our watches are inspected by a professional and are guaranteed to be 100% Authentic, with only Factory Parts unless otherwise disclosed. Please check out our track record online via our website, reviews on eBay, and Chrono24. 

 

WHY THIS WATCH 

THE LITTLE DETAILS

 

Hassle-Free Returns

We offer a 2 day return policy on all watches that we sell unless otherwise disclosed. There is no re-stocking fee as long as the watch is returned in it's original condition. All you'll be responsible for is shipping. 

Available for Pickup in our Showroom in Mclean, Virginia 

Want to see this watch in person? We are located in Mclean Virginia off of Chain Bridge Road. We are by appointment only (no walk ins), so please shoot us an email to schedule a time and get the address. 

 

WHY THIS WATCH 

The IWC Portofino Chronograph, first introduced in 1984, is a timeless watch from IWC. Inspired by the Italian fishing village Portofino, it embodies elegance and simplicity. The IW391007 model, released in 2011, features a stainless-steel case, sapphire glass, and a silver-plated dial, enhancing its classic, refined style.

 

The IWC Portofino Chronograph IW391007 stands out for its sleek design and precision. Its 42mm stainless-steel case, silver-plated dial, and polished appliqués exude sophistication. Driven by a self-winding 75320 calibre movement, it boasts a 44-hour power reserve. The watch's day-date display and chronograph function enhance its practicality and desirability for watch enthusiasts.

 

The IWC Portofino Chronograph IW391007 houses the self-winding calibre 75320, a reliable and precise movement. With 25 jewels, it offers a 44-hour power reserve and operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour. The Calibre 75320 also includes a chronograph function, day-date display, and small hacking seconds, ensuring practicality and accuracy for wearers.

 

This is a real sleeper watch that should get more attention than it does. The first thing that stands out when wearing this watch is that it's not a very thick watch for being a chronograph. The 13.5mm thickness is very refreshing. It's also under 50mm lug to lug so it'll fit pretty well on even smaller wrists. I would say this wears like a 41 or even a 40mm watch. The case design and pushers have a very unique, almost Italian style. The watch can be easily dressed up and down depending on the strap. Overall a fantastic watch for the money, it's no wonder this watch has been a staple of the IWC collection for a while now.

 

THE LITTLE DETAILS

The watch was barely worn and is in Near Mint condition with only very minor surface wear. I'd give the case 9.3/10. The movement is running strong, keeping good time with no issues whatsoever. The watch comes with the original IWC warranty card from 2017. It comes on the original IWC leather strap, with a factory IWC buckle. The strap was barely worn and is around 9/10. Comes with an aftermarket box.

Available for Pickup in our Showroom in Mclean, Virginia 

Want to see this watch in person? We are located in Mclean Virginia off of Chain Bridge Road. We are by appointment only (no walk ins), so please shoot us an email to schedule a time and get the address. 

 

 

AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED 

All watches we sell are Guaranteed Authentic. We have a physical storefront in Mclean, Virginia, and all of our watches undergo a multi-point inspection to ensure Authenticity. All watches are Guaranteed Authentic or your Money Back. 

  

HASSLE FREE RETURNS

All watches below $10,000 sold on our website on in store comes with a 3 day no questions asked return policy. Watches sold on other platforms carry the same 3 day return policy, regardless of dollar amount. There is no re-stocking fee as long as the watch is returned in it's original condition. All you'll be responsible for is shipping. 

 

30 DAYS WARRANTY 

This watch is covered by a 30 Day Warranty from the date of invoice. 

 

FAST INSURED SHIPPING

We only use Fed Ex Priority Shipping and we always fully insure every package. We have shipped hundreds of watches over the years and have never had an issue with shipment! We try our best to ship the same day of order. 

 

THE LITTLE DETAILS

WHY THIS WATCH 

Available for Pickup in our Showroom in Mclean, Virginia 

Want to see this watch in person? We are located in Mclean Virginia off of Chain Bridge Road. We are by appointment only (no walk ins), so please shoot us an email to schedule a time and get the address. 

 

TERMS:

Watches to which a warranty will be provided will be indicated as such in the listing. No warranties are assumed unless explicitly stated in the listing. For watches that are covered under Warranty, Warranty Period is from Invoice Date. Warranty does not cover accidental, misuse/mishandling, water damage and watches running fast or slow. Alterations or repairs by a third party will void the warranty. Warranty only applies to US transactions. Warranty only applies to original purchaser and is non-transferrable.

WHY THIS WATCH

The IWC Portuguese line was born when two Portuguese businessmen commissioned IWC to create a few wristwatches that had the accuracy of marine chronometers. At the time, the only way IWC could achieve this was to install pocket watch movements into these watches. This made the watches bigger than what was popular at the time. The theme of a big, highly legible and accurate wristwatch continued to IWC's present day Portugieser. 

 

 

IWC unveiled the original IWC Portuguese 7 Day (ref. 5001) in the year 2000. This watch was a real game-changer for IWC, as it showcased IWC's serious watchmaking and engineering prowess. The calibre 5000 used for this watch was the result of 4 years of R&D. The Pellaton winding system in this movement is based on a patent from the 1950's, developed by Albert Pellaton, IWC's technical director during the 1940s. 

 

 

IWC did a major update to the Portuguese 7 Day in 2015. The New 52010 calibre features the use of ceramic parts, which will be virtually impervious to wear. Additionally, IWC installed a free-sprung balance system, which helps increase the accuracy of the movement as it approaches days 6 and 7 of the Power Reserve. 

 

 

On the wrist, this watch feels large, with large 22mm spacing between the lugs, and clocking in at nearly 50mm lug to lug. The 42.3mm diameter is not that big on paper, but remember this watch is nearly 14mm thick. Having said that, I have average wrists and can wear this watch every day. I think the deployment clasp is a must, as it balances out an otherwise top heavy watch. Once you've got this watch strapped on, the dial with those gorgeous blued Arabic numerals and hands becomes the star of the show. It feels great knowing that I can lay this watch down for 7 days and it'll still be ticking. The huge date display at the bottom is also great to have. Flipping it over, you can tell IWC did a huge refresh for this movement. 

THE LITTLE DETAILS Watch was purchased in 2018 from an IWC Authorized Dealer and comes with the full set of Box and Papers, including stamped warranty card dated 2018. This watch is in Near Mint Condition, around 95%. Sides of case are very clean, almost perfect, some scratches on the deployment buckle and a little wear on the strap. The strap has most of it's life left, I would say it's around 80%. The movement is running strong without any issues. 
 

Available for Pickup in our Showroom in Mclean, Virginia 

Want to see this watch in person? We are located in Mclean Virginia off of Chain Bridge Road. We are by appointment only (no walk ins), so please shoot us an email to schedule a time and get the address. 

 

  

WHY THIS WATCH

History of the Portuguese 

 

The IWC Portuguese line was created in the 1930's when two Portuguese wholesalers approached IWC to commission a large wristwatch that carried the precision of a pocket watch. The 43mm reference IWC 325 was created as a result. Although this reference was not a big seller for IWC at the time, it gained a cult-like following decades later. It also paved the way for the IWC's Portuguese lineup. The modern Portuguese line pays homage to the original reference 325, with a range of watches that are around 41mm in diameter with a focus on big, accurate movements.

 

 In 1998 IWC launched the IWC Portuguese Chronograph, reference 3714. With it's perfect proportions, and a simple yet elegant dial layout, this reference would soon become IWC's high selling and most popular watch. In 2020, IWC released the reference 3716 which was a major update to the Portuguese Chronograph. Most notably, the reference 3716 was powered by IWC's in-house chronograph movement. 

 

A formula that works 

 

Outside of the new In-House movement, IWC didn't change much when it introduced this new reference, and that is a smart decision in our opinion. The design and engineering elements that made this watch so beloved were not changed. Namely, the case of this watch is very compact, at 41mm and 13mm in height. The dial is simple, but very elegant and extremely legible. This is a watch that can be worn by almost anyone and for any occasion. 

 

In House Calibre 69355

  

The biggest change to the Portuguese Chronograph is the introduction of the in-house movement, reference 69355. This movement is far superior to the Valjoux 7750 in the older model. It's a column wheel chronograph, meaning it's smoother upon activation. Also the power reserve is up a few hours to 46. 

  

Wrist Impressions

 

This watch was always been one of my favorite references, not just from IWC but from any brand. It's just the perfect size for my average 6.5 inch wrist. I can't stop staring at those Arabic numerals. There's something just so special about this dial. I would venture to say this is the most beautiful and readable dial of all time. I find that this watch dresses down pretty well with the brown suede strap. 

 

THE LITTLE DETAILS This watch was purchased in 2022 from an Authorized IWC Dealer, and has a full IWC WARRANTY UNTIL 2030. It comes with the full set of box, and papers, including IWC Warranty card with matching serial number. This watch was only worn a dozen times, and is in overall Near Mint Condition with only very minor wear. This watch retails for $19,200. 

 

Come Visit our Storefront in Mclean, Virginia

Want to see this watch in person? We are located in Mclean Virginia a few minutes from Tysons Corner I and II malls. We are by appointment only, so please look us up on the web to get the number and schedule a time to browse our catalog. 

 

 

AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED 

All watches we sell are Guaranteed Authentic. We have a physical storefront in Mclean, Virginia, and all of our watches undergo a multi-point inspection to ensure Authenticity. All watches are Guaranteed Authentic or your Money Back. 

  

HASSLE FREE RETURNS

All watches below $10,000 sold on our website on in store comes with a 3 day no questions asked return policy. Watches sold on other platforms carry the same 3 day return policy, regardless of dollar amount. There is no re-stocking fee as long as the watch is returned in it's original condition. All you'll be responsible for is shipping. 

 

30 Day Warranty 

This watch is covered by a 30 Day Warranty from the date of invoice. 

 

FAST INSURED SHIPPING

We only use Fed Ex Priority Shipping and we always fully insure every package. We have shipped hundreds of watches over the years and have never had an issue with shipment! We try our best to ship the same day of order. 

 

THE LITTLE DETAILS

WHY THIS WATCH 

Available for Pickup in our Showroom in Mclean, Virginia 

Want to see this watch in person? We are located in Mclean Virginia off of Chain Bridge Road. We are by appointment only (no walk ins), so please shoot us an email to schedule a time and get the address. 

 

 

TERMS:

Watches to which a warranty will be provided will be indicated as such in the listing. No warranties are assumed unless explicitly stated in the listing. For watches that are covered under Warranty, Warranty Period is from Invoice Date. Warranty does not cover accidental, misuse/mishandling, water damage and watches running fast or slow. Alterations or repairs by a third party will void the warranty. Warranty only applies to US transactions. Warranty only applies to original purchaser and is non-transferrable.