To ask what you think is a "good" watch?

[MidnightDexy]

I will be celebrating a milestone birthday soon and have decided I'm going to use my bonus to buy myself a 'proper' watch as a momento. I don't want a (e.g.) Michael Kors / Gucci (for myself - not saying they're not lovely pieces), I have it in my head that I want a solid, proper, swiss-type watch. So can I ask what you consider to be 'good' watch brands? I want something that will still be a beautiful watch in 20 years.

The AIBU is I know I shouldn't be hung up on 'brands' and should buy what i can afford and what i like, but indulge me, please :)

We bought each other matching Longines watches for our 10th and 20th wedding anniversaries. Both stainless steel models.

The first one is a beautiful Dolce Vita tonneau automatic, it has a quirk of falling 2 minutes behind and then running perfectly and I love it because we bought it the day we found out DD was on the way. I've broken the glass 3(!) times and had it serviced when that happened. So it's been an expensive but life-enhancing possession

The second one is a more sporty style and battery powered, so less expensive. It's more to DH's style than mine, but I can wear it on a daily basis without worrying about water or dirt.

So, at least in our case, Longines is our watch of choice.

Another vote for Longines. I've had mine about 15yrs and it keeps perfect time. It is slim, classic and elegant and looks good for everyday and smarter occasions. I think they are pretty reasonably priced too and a bit cheaper than Omega.

just popped back to say thank you for all the helpful responses. I have a much better idea of what I am looking for. Thank you!

Do let us know what you get in the end!

Have a look on Watchfinder.com - they do beautiful pre-owned watches from high end names there, and you might be able to find something really lovely there within your budget.

I haunt their site regularly - I want to treat myself to a Rolex in the next year or two, if I can crack my business at last.

watchfinder.co.uk, sorry

Go for a pre-owned Rolex or Cartier

I have a Baume & Mercier Linea and I love it. It's very simple but classic and it still makes me happy every time I look at my wrist.

I got my DH a Rolex for his birthday this year and I think it was worth every penny. My dads has his Rolex 30 years and it's still in brilliant working condition

My brother has an omega that I think looks very smart

Maybe not at all what you had in mind but have you considered an Apple Watch? I Think they're lovely!