The Breitling Watch Source Forums

Heading to Italy in two weeks with the missus. I have a Panerai and fell in and out of love quickly with Anonimo. Any Italian watch brands I should check out when I get there? And should I expect better pricing in Italy than here?

I think my brother said I can spend $10-$15,000 USD without worrying about paying taxes......? By no means am I thinking about spending that much on another watch, but a couple grand isn't out of the question.

Thanks!

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PAM359, Omega PO Big Size, 1951 Omega Seamaster, Rolex Sea Dweller

The Euro is absolutely murderous right now (or is it that the dollar is in the toilet?). I was in Rome in August and was getting killed. I didnt check out any watches, but I cant imagine that its worth it.

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-RJ

I was in Italy in August for my honeymoon. I traveled from Venice, up to Lake Como, to Cinque Terre, to Florence, to Montalcino, and finally to Rome. All along the way I peeked in every watch store my wife would let me. The prices are obscene compared to the US. Save yourself the trouble and don't even bother looking. You can do mu better in the US.

I also found it strange that almost no one carried Panerai.

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Chronomat 01- Sierra Silver/Steel
Navitimer 01- Limited Edition #1337/2000

you should get a ferrari

Although it has nothing to do with watches, if you're going to be in Florence, try stopping by Santa Maria Novella (the pharmacy, not the cathedral), maker of fine fragrances and toiletries. There are definitely some interesting things there for the missus, and some good stuff for gents, too.

what should not buy: watches, electronics, luxury branded clothing & leather goods. all those are a LOT cheaper in the US

what you should buy: you will find outstanding quality in small, family/craftsmen-owned stores for cashmere, shirts, ties, silver/gold, leather goods, fragrances, glass, papeterie and much more. not produced in China or Bangladesh, not by child labour, but by real Italians: not mass produced but really handcrafted, things you will love and cherish for years.

what you must buy: if you are at least a little epicurean - food & wines. depending where you are, it really varies from city to city. cheeses, hams, salami, noodles, sweets, vinegar (yes!), red wines, prosecco, whites .... bring home some decent Grappa. if you are arriving from October to November and ideally go to Piemonte, have same white truffles (and drink some Barbera)!

enjoy, have a good time & bring back the tastes and memories

You should not buy food, as You are not allowed to bring it back to the US...

Maybe You could buy something funny and worthless: Greek bonds?

BG
Thomas

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http://www.ellert.at

Thomas, meant/wrote buy food & eat it there; bring back the tastes & memories !

re greek bonds, they do have local alternative in Italy !

enjoy the coffee and cheese!

I agree with the food and wine. The table wine is better than a lot of bottled wine I've had here in the States!! The company I work for is based in Italy and was there last year. I think I gained 10 lbs. I loved the lunch and dinners plus the coffee!!!

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Hamilton Khaki Navy Sub 40mm - GMT
Breitling Super Avenger 48mm

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"I don't own any watches, I just lease them"

In Italy? Well, as long as they're covered by French or German banks...

To the OP:

There are some many things you can enjoy in that beautiful country:

leather goods from shoes to purses or exceptional clothing for both of you are some of your choices. There is so much more variety than you could ever find in America - and if you have the time to visit an outlet (for ex.: like the one you can find at the outskirts of Milano), it will make your day.

Then, of course, you should treat yourselves to a meal to one of those unbelievable Osterias. Be sure to ask at your hotel for a recommendation so as to avoid "tourist" traps. They can be of very good advice. And remember, the more dilapidated it is on the outside, the more delicious it will be on the inside. That will be something you will remember. No offense intended to the Italian restaurants in America but again, there is no comparison.

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- This is Ghost Rider requesting a fly-by. - Negative Ghost Rider. The pattern is full.

Soooooo, had an absolutely fantastic trip and after 9 days of strolling through Rome, Florence, Milan, and Venice.....I bought a belt. The missus didn't buy anything. The food and wine were absolutely terrific and the people were beautiful.

Also stopped by the Panerai HQ in Florence - very understated and simple....and if you want a good hoot, check this out when you go to Google maps street view to find Panerai in Florence....is this guy praying to Panerai

http://g.co/maps/y4f9f

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PAM359, Omega PO Big Size, 1951 Omega Seamaster, Rolex Sea Dweller

Well, I see that you finally bought what Italy is most famous of: leather goods.

As for the food...well

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- This is Ghost Rider requesting a fly-by. - Negative Ghost Rider. The pattern is full.