for me if I am spending above US$300 I would like a swiss/Jap/Russian made with their own movement.
those brand u mentioned, I rather spend on MK2 or what.

was looking at some of the post on Christopher Ward watches, their 7750 is decorated with blue screws
http://forums.watchuseek.com/showthread.php?t=309098


someone here (waters) got a C8, hope he can give a review and experience with customs.
http://forum.lowyat.net/topic/825550/+180

http://forums.watchuseek.com/showthread.php?t=238179

now I understand what you meant. i apologize for taking your post out of context. you could get a german watch with swiss movement, stowa maybe? you get the goodness of a swiss movement and german finish, not to mention it is an independent watchmaker.

majority of the watch companies are owned by the 3 luxury brands.. Swatch, LVMH and Richemont. and as much heritage, history and pedigree the brands may have, we wouldn't know how much of it has been eroded by corporations whose sole purpose is profits.

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Added on April 6, 2010, 11:59 am

depends on what its "worth" to you. to me its just a toy watch. mass marketed for the consumption of the masses. ODM is like Proton, Rolex is like Ferrari and Patek is Bugatti.

a funny quote i came across.. Rolex is the Rolex of watches.