I remember! I think it was in 1977 that I bought a watch similar to the one on the right. I remember the brand, Elgin, and that I paid $75 for it, reduced (supposedly) from $150. I guess the winds of obsolescence were already blowing. It had two buttons on the side. I really liked it at the time. Crazy times.
Collecting, anything, is boring to me. But if I were going to buy a watch (if I could afford it) I would buy a Patek Philippe Minute Repeater Tourbillon, Ref 5016P. This is Definitely a classic case of...if you have to ask, you can't afford it... http://www.ebay.com/itm/PATEK-PHILI...R-PERPETUAL-TOURBILLON-PLATINUM-/201787498494
My favorite rolex. You need a rubber strap from http://www.horusstraps.com/products/graphite-camouflage-rubber-rolex-gmt-master-ii-strap
I loved my Roger Dubuis Easy Diver Chronograph when I bought it ten years ago, and I still love it today!
Ulysse Nardin Circus Minute Repeater http://www.ebay.com/itm/361862516693; I like this watch, and what it symbolizes in regards to trading the market -- you kind of have to understand the emotions and logic of animals. The relationship between what may seem like irrational crazy animals, and humans. The interrelationship between the two...trading is part art, part science.
As is this--- By far my favorite watch of all time. Great daily wearer and the movement is exquisite.