I definitely and absolutely have to disagree with most of you on this one. If u take the time to read this, maybe I will sway your opinions.....
Although Balls certainly aren't inexpensive, when you add up all of the features and overall quality you are getting for the price, there really isn't much competition in the same price range. I will agree that Hamiltons are pretty attractive in terms of their designs and styles. However, the quality, apart from the ETA movements is not near Balls in nearly every other regard. Sure, if my only concern is $$$, i'd go Hamilton. But can I picture myself cherishing and enjoying my hamilton for 5+ years??? Hell no. As soon as I have the money, I'd be in the market again for something better.
I do agree that some of Balls designs are just plain hideous to me, but that's why they have over 50 different styles to choose from. Before I knew anything about watches, I still refused to buy a Seiko, Citizens, Bulova etc bc everyone has one and quite frankly, their designs are completely uninteresting and void of creativity. Not to mention they break frequently if you use them while doing anything else besides paperwork.
So I always bought expensive Movados (not the Bolds or crap like that) around $2k-3500 bc I really liked some of the styles bc they were original and seemed like better quality than the cheaper watches. Until those started breaking too. Can't wash your hands with hot water or they couldn't withstand a minor drop accidentally, etc.
So I started studying Ball, Hamiltons, Tags, Rolex, Breitling, Panerais Omegas and everything in between, and on a tight budget with 6 kids making 50k a year, I'm not buying a Patek anytime soon. But I'm not buying a $5 walmart swatch either.
What I discovered is that ultimately, all the things Ball offers; still the best in lume, superior shock resistance, good water depth resistance, great anti-magnetic builds, reliable movements, awesome customer service including 3 yrs worry free warranty, cool American heritage, truly unique designs AND premium material qualities and reliability; you have to pay much more than 2k to get all of that in any other brand. Period.
And one more point, though most love to talk about in-house movements and all that, practically, when you're primarily discussing $$$, really ??? Come on. You will never notice a difference. When u have 8k to burn, return to in-house discussions.
I would have paid $500-1000 more for my Balls after having experienced them and enjoying the ruggedness and reliability and beauty of them. MOST IMPORTANTLY, you can't look at Ball's website and evaluate their watches vs other brands. Go into a store and feel the quality and craftsmanship. Hamilton will fall off ur list quickly.
IVE NEVER HEARD OF ANYONE (to whom money isn't everlasting)WHO WALKS INTO A PANERAI OR ROLEX BOUTIQUE AND BUYS A BRAND NEW 10k WATCH AND SAYS, I would have paid twice that much!!! Lol
Just a couple pics to display my points
Old Movado (paid 2k)
Ball Fireman Racer (Paid $1399)
Ball Teainmaster Roman (paid $1799)