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3/24/2010 9:27:25 PM EDT
I'm looking for a watch for a SHTF type situation.  Cheap is what I'm looking for but I don't want it to use batteries.  With the self-winding watches can there be problems if you let it sit for long periods of time "unwound"?  Like if got one and it sat in my bag for 5 years would it work after it was wound?

I wouldn't be averse to one that you have to wind by hand though I'm not sure they make them anymore.
3/25/2010 2:07:08 AM EDT
[#1]
go old-school:  Sundial
3/25/2010 2:59:17 AM EDT
[#2]
My favorite watch Ive ever owned is my Seiko diver,its been my daily wear watch for almost 2 years. The thing is built like a tank,I did change the band to a zulu nylon. You can easily find them for the $150-200 range not sure if its in you budget but its definatly worth it. It will lose time if not worn ,I'd say it starts to lose time between 24-48 hours if its not worn. Here is mine and one availible on amazon...

Crappy cell pic,it definatly does not do the watch justice waaaay nicer in person




Seiko
3/25/2010 2:09:28 PM EDT
[#3]
Durability, Self Winding, and Cheap are three things that cannot co-exist.

My advice, find a Swiss made self winder from the 70s or 80s that has seen better days but the action is still serviceable, then take it to a watchmaker and get it serviced. You can pick up old watches off Ebay for the 100-200 price range. Don't shoot for well known brands but rather do research and find a brand that has a reputation for quality but obscurity.
3/25/2010 4:31:18 PM EDT
[#4]
Have you given any thought to a Casio solar powered G Shock?  They can be had for as little as $75 and it can charge from sitting in a room that just has ambient light.  If you leave it inside your bag for 5 years it might power down, but if you clip it on the outside until you need it, it would probably stay charged.  

I have a Seiko automatic (self winding) if I take it off, after about 12 hours it stops.
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