This vintage Gul watch is perfect for a Throwback Thursday. The first day of 2026 is grey and wet. Happy New year to all watch lovers here.

I want to share some context behind my watch goals — because they’re intentionally not ultra-luxury, and that’s by design. I live in Egypt, and here the reality around watches is very different from what most global watch content assumes. Luxury watches aren’t common, and even “simple” pieces can feel out of reach. The economy isn’t great, many areas are rough, and spending around $500 on a watch can literally equal a full monthly salary for what’s considered a high-paying job for many people. In that environment, buying something like a Rolex — or even wearing one casually — isn’t always smart, practical, or even safe. It’s not just about money, it’s about context. Because of that, brands like Tissot or Longines are already considered luxury here, not entry-level. So when I think about a “luxury” collection, I think in relative terms, not global hype terms. Even if I travel one day or my income improves, I don’t see myself going overboard. I value watches that make sense for my life — durable, meaningful, well-made, and wearable without stress. This is also a long-term plan, not an immediate shopping list. Currently, I have a different shopping list that better suits my current budget and priorities. Those are the watches I’ll actually be working toward first. This wishlist is simply the direction I’d like to grow into over time, at my own pace. So this is what my personal luxury wishlist looks like: - Casio G-Shock GM-B2100D-1A (Full Metal): A modern icon for me. Tough, reliable, beautifully engineered, and perfectly suited for daily life without worrying about damage. - Timex Expedition Field Post Solar: Simple, functional, solar-powered, and honest. A watch you can depend on anywhere, anytime. - Seiko 5 Sports SRPD55: A gateway into mechanical watches with real heritage. Sporty, versatile, and full of character.

The Lume Shot! While the lume isn't the brightest I've seen I think it works absolutely beautifully for this watch.