I think Littmann and MDF Instruments are both good brands. Just avoid those stethoscopes that look like the ones that comes with a blood pressure cuff. They usually start to fall apart after a year. I got an MDF stethoscope (in rose gold cuz I couldn't help myself). It's a little on the heavier side but the sound is really clear (though they do sell lightweight stethoscopes). It's also a bit longer than the Littman ones. MDF also provides a lifetime warranty, so if something breaks of pops off, they send replacement parts free of charge. As for the watch, I got this one about two years ago for CNA classes and it's still going strong.