Thanks for the links Greg. However, the one question not answered was: Is the GSAR a good value if purchased for less than retail? There are other choices I had, but are beyond what I wanted to pay. I would really like to have the (James Bond style) Omega blue faced Seamaster Auto (full size). Instead of putting everything in one watch, I would rather have several lower priced ones. I already have one expensive watch (Rolex).
The watches I presently own are 2 Seiko Chronographs. 1 Seiko perpetual calendar. 1 Wenger Chronograph. 1 Swiss Army divers. 1 Citizen Eco-Drive Chronograph divers. These are of course, are Quarts watches.
The only automatic watch I own, is a Rolex DateJust (18kt/SS) that I purchased in 1982. Believe it or not, it's not my most favorite watch. Most people who see it, thinks it's a fake. And I'm not overly impressed with it accuracy, and I've had it cleaned by a factory authorized dealer at a cost of about $300 years ago. For that price, it did come with a new chrystal (acrylic?). My Rolex now has "Band stretch" really bad. Yes, I did use to wear it a lot.
So my big question now is...Do I go Quartz, or with the Automatic? I understand both of the pro's and cons. Quarts for accuracy? Or Auto, never needing to worry about a battery (but less accurate)? If I need accuracy, I have this with my Seiko Perpetual. Not only does it have a 10 year battery, but it gives me an annual Loss/Gain of less than 20 seconds a year. I've hade this watch for about 6 years know, and this rate is accurate.
I've always felt that an Automatic watch has more "soul" than a quartz. And the purpose of the GSAR will not be for diving, as I don't dive. I just like to looks of a diver. Also...I've always wanted to have a watch with "Tritium". Lastly, I wanted a true affordable modern Military watch...one that everyone doesn't have.
Pictured below, are pictures of some of the watches I have. This will give you an example of what I like.
Thanks for the regulars here, and for the wealth of information you have given us (me).
((((sorry for the long winded post.:-))))
Counterfeit items suck...... almost as much as the people who sell them!