I spend my mornings studying Pateks, my afternoons advising collectors as they deliberate over their next purchases, and my nights writing about literally superlative Rolexes. Oh, and my grail watch just happens to be an A-series Royal Oak. But through all of this, my budget is still limited to $500, and not a penny more. So lately I’ve been scouring the web for something cool, collectible, and worth my while. I’ve got to tell you, this has been one heck of a search so far, and it won’t get any easier, but that’s where all the fun is in acquiring a watch. 

Let’s get down to business: Here’s my list of the best five vintage buys under $500.