In a thread a few days back, the question of Chotovelli and Figli watches came up. These watches are sold by Ernie Watchuseek. If you don't recognize the name or website, Ernie and WUS are a Authorized Welder dealer and a great horology forum. There has been a great deal of chatter on the boards about the best watch under $1000 and under $500. The piece of choice under $500 seems to be the Nixon. The styling isn't really my cup of tea, so I thought the Chotovelli might be interesting to check out. So I sent an email to my friend Ernie Romers and asked him about the quality of the pieces, as they are fairly inexpensive and realitively unknown.Much to my surprise Ernie offered to ship me a sample for me to check out. So I promised everyone a review of the watch, and here it is. In review, I am very happy with this piece. While it isn't an AP, Panerai or IWC, I don't think anyone expected it to be. When comparing the piece to my Welder watches, I feel it is very close to being in the same league. While I think the design of the Welders stand far above the Chotovelli pieces, they are put together in much the same way and a great alternative for a daily wearer. I had an early U-Boat watch I sold earlier this year and I personally feel this has the same build quality.