Hi all, I’m looking to purchase my first mechanical watch in the next couple of months and am seriously considering either the Hanhart 417 ES 42mm or Tudor Black Bay Chrono. I really love the reverse panda. The Hanhart is quite a bit cheaper than the Tudor but the Tudor has a few advantages such as 200m water resistance. Which would you choose?
Imo, the Hanhart has a cool factor, but the people answering this question will encourage you to buy what’s more cool not the watch they’d buy. Some here would buy the Hanhart, or if they had to choose would buy the Hanhart over the Tudor but would rather something else. However, aside from vintage pieces I rarely see Hanharts in SOTC or any other posts. When people talk about German watches, Hanhart is not mentioned first, second, or hell, even the top 10. I think this is a relevant observation. Why don’t they put their money where their mouth is?
Also, I believe a huge choice defining element is the warranty. Hanhart offers two years, Tudor: five. I can’t over-emphasize how big a deal this is to me as a watch person. Eventually you’re going to pay for servicing. That said, with a five year warranty you have a big chunk of peace of mind. The Hanhart may save you enough to cover a repair if needed, but there’s nothing like being under warranty.
Plus, this is your first mechanical watch. Imo, it’s already bold to start with a chrono. When it comes to a small collection “boring is beautiful” in my opinion. Simple, easy/inexpensive to service, and a brand that will help you build a foundation. Tudor is in my view an excellent starting point. That Hanhart looks like a watch someone buys 20 watches in to “spice things up.”
Great points, thanks for that. The longer warranty is an advantage for sure. I wonder if over time the B01 movement would be more expensive to maintain but I hear mostly great things about it.