Since becoming interested in wrist watches about three years ago I have regularly encouraged many of my pals to get a solid daily wearer of some quality, but even those who actually saw the slightest amount of interest were always hesitant to pull the trigger. That is until one of my best mates came to me several months back and decided he was ready to begin his search. I think he made the decision after several night of borrowing my Navitimer and getting that great watch feeling.
Since then we have endlessly gone over what he wants, and realistically what he could get with a $1500 budget. Keep in mind that I advised him to take his time and not make a hurried decision, so this has been a long but fun process attempting to educate him on brand provenance and complications.
Being a dressier fella he ultimately fell in love with the Frederique Constant line and as all of you know spent an unhealthy amount of time browsing the current models and over thinking things. Last week he made it to an AD to look at a couple models, and unfortunately found most of the 42 mm models too big for his small wrists. Never on to be discouraged he looked into the FC Junior model that comes in at 38.5mm which is right in his wheelhouse.

He got this little gem for $600, which if you can get past the Jr aspect is a steal IMO. Excited after he pulled the trigger and order, I jokingly suggested he should pick up a second watch with the remaining cash. Surprisingly he was already on the idea and had been looking at Hamilton based on my input. He really liked the Jazzmaster line for the simplicity and fell in love with this beauty

What a one-two combo he is starting off with. These lines may not WOW a true WIS but I think they really compliment each other and will work well for him for many years. Since we stayed under budget by over $200 I advised him as his accountant and wrist watch sherpa to order a black croc and brown ostrich strap from Jenna at stone creek, which should very well hook him into this demented hobby of ours.
Anyhow, just a fun experience from a different perspective and reminds me of my first hunt. Have any of you ever walked anyone through the purchasing process?