Obligatory Wristwatch Thread

[theJanitor]

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDhcYSFy_s3/?igsh=d2Zsa3dwNzJuZm5k

[Crusader]

There's definitely a lot of Sinn inspiration to it.

I've been debating about a black or metal bezel for a few weeks. I think I'll be going with the metal bezel route - it'll be my first engineer as well.

I hated the rubber strap that came with my Seiko monster at 20mm with a taper it just felt too thin for the watch. When looking for a replacement I could not find anything I liked for it, until I came across a black engineer bracelet. No taper thick and fitting for a monster, perfect.

https://i.postimg.cc/mgXtNKWk/IMG-9538.jpg (https://postimg.cc/WdZNsW3c)

Engineer bracelets have become my go to for big bold Seiko divers, also went with the same in 22mm for a Tuna.

https://i.postimg.cc/0y2zSP3h/IMG-9551.jpg (https://postimg.cc/xchjDD9P)

[AZ6K]

I hated the rubber strap that came with my Seiko monster at 20mm with a taper it just felt too thin for the watch. When looking for a replacement I could not find anything I liked for it, until I came across a black engineer bracelet. No taper thick and fitting for a monster, perfect.

https://i.postimg.cc/mgXtNKWk/IMG-9538.jpg (https://postimg.cc/WdZNsW3c)

Engineer bracelets have become my go to for big bold Seiko divers, also went with the same in 22mm for a Tuna.

https://i.postimg.cc/0y2zSP3h/IMG-9551.jpg (https://postimg.cc/xchjDD9P)

Where did you get the one for the Tuna?

Thanks

[Crusader]

Amazon, I was somewhat surprised as a lot of bracelets will not fit Seiko’s because of their large pins. Just happened to run across it.

Strapcode is another place to look, their quality is higher then the Amazon one I got.

[AZ6K]

Amazon, I was somewhat surprised as a lot of bracelets will not fit Seiko’s because of their large pins. Just happened to run across it.

Strapcode is another place to look, their quality is higher then the Amazon one I got.

Thank you sir, I will go looking!

[NPV]

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[Wyoming Shooter]

This is my first titanium watch. I like the color and the weight reduction is noticable. I used the JJY Emulator to set the watch. It was a little tricky but, not insurmountable. Thank God for Google Translate as my Japanese is abysmal.

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[Crusader]

I like that titanium Citizen great looking watch, I have a couple titanium watches the weight reduction is very noticeable on the wrist. My 45mm Breitling feels like a feather with its cloth/calf skin strap, my HUGE 50x15x56mm Hazard 4 I bought on a whim a while back with its huge 24mm titanium bracelet is ridiculously light for its massive size. Both of my titanium watches are black PVD coated.

https://i.postimg.cc/YSLMc6h1/IMG-9515.jpg (https://postimg.cc/mc40CF3D)

[HeavyDuty]

I got into budget automatics heavy about ten years ago with a pile of Seikos, mostly Monsters and a few other models. I prefer bracelets on these, but the lack of a toolfree microadjust has really bothered me because I’m right on a link boundary. I’ve been wearing mostly my Sinns for the last year, but have started pulling out the Seikos again and would like to make at least a few of them more comfortable. I’m still shocked by how much my wrist size can vary throughout the day, and I don’t even have edema.

I see Strapcode makes a 18mm ratcheting microadjust buckle that looks like it will work on a Seiko bracelet. Has anyone tried these?

https://www.strapcode.com/products/parts-nt-clasp-017b?_pos=1&_sid=217cc5793&_ss=r&variant=8399956967479

[Wyoming Shooter]

This is new to me. First impression is that it's big and heavy - and cool. The combination of Eco-Drive and radio setting is pretty much awesome.

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[Crusader]

I got into budget automatics heavy about ten years ago with a pile of Seikos, mostly Monsters and a few other models. I prefer bracelets on these, but the lack of a toolfree microadjust has really bothered me because I’m right on a link boundary. I’ve been wearing mostly my Sinns for the last year, but have started pulling out the Seikos again and would like to make at least a few of them more comfortable. I’m still shocked by how much my wrist size can vary throughout the day, and I don’t even have edema.

I see Strapcode makes a 18mm ratcheting microadjust buckle that looks like it will work on a Seiko bracelet. Has anyone tried these?

https://www.strapcode.com/products/parts-nt-clasp-017b?_pos=1&_sid=217cc5793&_ss=r&variant=8399956967479

Haven't personally tried one, but I have read good things about them, micro adjust on the fly bracelets seem to be coming on strong now. Even in lower cost watches more are coming from the manufacturer with them, like you I welcome this. I like a firm fitting bracelet, not a fan of watch movement on my wrist. But yeah at the end of the day your firm fitting watch bracelet can get darn right tight especially in warmer weather.

I also have a few butterfly clasped bracelet watches, these have no micro adjust at all and can be very challenging to find a good fit. I always go a little too tight over a little too lose, unfortunately there is noway to over come this that I know of. Outside of changing to a different type bracelet and I’m not willing to do that, so I just end up dealing with it.

[HeavyDuty]

Haven't personally tried one, but I have read good things about them, micro adjust on the fly bracelets seem to be coming on strong now. Even in lower cost watches more are coming from the manufacturer with them, like you I welcome this. I like a firm fitting bracelet, not a fan of watch movement on my wrist. But yeah at the end of the day your firm fitting watch bracelet can get darn right tight especially in warmer weather.

I also have a few butterfly clasped bracelet watches, these have no micro adjust at all and can be very challenging to find a good fit. I always go a little too tight over a little too lose, unfortunately there is noway to over come this that I know of. Outside of changing to a different type bracelet and I’m not willing to do that, so I just end up dealing with it.

I went ahead and ordered one since they are having a sale, let’s see how it goes. I’ll stick it on my orange Monster or my Tuna to try.

[Chuck Whitlock]

.... would like to make at least a few of them more comfortable. I’m still shocked by how much my wrist size can vary throughout the day, and I don’t even have edema.

I see Strapcode makes a 18mm ratcheting microadjust buckle that looks like it will work on a Seiko bracelet. Has anyone tried these?

Not those, but I had a magnetic bracelet that came with a cheap smart watch that I tried, and it happened to fit my Seiko. Similar to this:

https://www.amazon.com/HARFINGTON-Stainless-Release-Adjustable-Magnetic/dp/B0CTCNKNN8/ref=sr_1_6?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ocMp_FTDOc7WgS0wEtOGa-DkZ13LJyXOojtdH2VcFFyFJb3MUPhymZcvZ1LM9b3sPAoaeTn2 uxVkNQw2JR9a0RJrZdM3_-oTtjKMSlwEtpla7ib5p1oCQHAgZ2dfomnNp7sCVnSzpmgK3GQX fWRMIFePgQanou-ZGLxvyuIlXtuucs6kmTrY80BR78uxTFLAtHB_bcLAVSB0XX32C ihjnFRJJFk_xF7xtUwgIKHwnn0.g998NNf5Gym-QA_lnW3FYl23b4UV5113SOyKkrvIEEs&dib_tag=se&keywords=magnetic%2Bwatch%2Bband%2Bblack%2Bstainle ss&qid=1735227412&sr=8-6&th=1

Pro is that it is never too tight. It can sometimes stick to other metal objects, but not enough to leave your wrist or anything. A minor annoyance, at best.

I also like the bracelet on a Skaggen that I have like this. Micro adjustable, but not really on the fly.

https://www.skagen.com/en-us/products/sundby-titanium-and-charcoal-steel-mesh-watch/233XLTTM.html

[HeavyDuty]

Not those, but I had a magnetic bracelet that came with a cheap smart watch that I tried, and it happened to fit my Seiko. Similar to this:

https://www.amazon.com/HARFINGTON-Stainless-Release-Adjustable-Magnetic/dp/B0CTCNKNN8/ref=sr_1_6?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ocMp_FTDOc7WgS0wEtOGa-DkZ13LJyXOojtdH2VcFFyFJb3MUPhymZcvZ1LM9b3sPAoaeTn2 uxVkNQw2JR9a0RJrZdM3_-oTtjKMSlwEtpla7ib5p1oCQHAgZ2dfomnNp7sCVnSzpmgK3GQX fWRMIFePgQanou-ZGLxvyuIlXtuucs6kmTrY80BR78uxTFLAtHB_bcLAVSB0XX32C ihjnFRJJFk_xF7xtUwgIKHwnn0.g998NNf5Gym-QA_lnW3FYl23b4UV5113SOyKkrvIEEs&dib_tag=se&keywords=magnetic%2Bwatch%2Bband%2Bblack%2Bstainle ss&qid=1735227412&sr=8-6&th=1

Pro is that it is never too tight. It can sometimes stick to other metal objects, but not enough to leave your wrist or anything. A minor annoyance, at best.

I also like the bracelet on a Skaggen that I have like this. Micro adjustable, but not really on the fly.

https://www.skagen.com/en-us/products/sundby-titanium-and-charcoal-steel-mesh-watch/233XLTTM.html

The Amazon one looks to be similar to the type I use on my Apple Watch - not quite infinitely adjustable, but close. I’d just be worried about introducing a magnetic field near an automatic watch.

[Trooper224]

New bracelet for the Bulova Lunar Pilot, from Long Island Watch.

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[Up1911Fan]

127563

[RoyGBiv]

I also like the bracelet on a Skaggen that I have like this. Micro adjustable, but not really on the fly.

https://www.skagen.com/en-us/products/sundby-titanium-and-charcoal-steel-mesh-watch/233XLTTM.html

I picked up a similar-clasp band from Aliexpress a few months ago... I liked the band enough to risk the clasp. I would up liking the clasp a lot. Very adjustable and easy to put on once you get the feel for it. I still have lingering concerns about the clasp staying closed as it ages, but, no issues at all so far.

[NPV]

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[TOTS]

127563
Sighs….that’s my 2025 goal.

[Up1911Fan]

Sighs….that’s my 2025 goal.

The BB Chrono is a really great piece, you won't regret it.

[RoyGBiv]

127599

[ST911]

127599

The funniest part of that meme isn't the innuendo, but the number of folks that recognized the watch by reference number.

[HeavyDuty]

And now for something completely different…

https://apollo-instruments.com/

[jeep45238]

And now for something completely different…

https://apollo-instruments.com/

I'm torn, but it probably scratches a big itch for someone.

[Up1911Fan]

Realized last night I've never worn this watch on the OEM leather strap and deployant I bought it on. From the start I intended to wear this one on the OEM 5 link "Jubilee" bracelet with T-Fit and already had that in hand before actually ordering the watch. While I'm normally always a "always buy it on the bracelet" kind of guy, I already have the BB Heritage Chrono with the 3 link Oyster bracelet that will fit if I ever want to wear it that way. Since it's leather strap season i.e. Winter, decided to swap it out it out last night. I like it and will probably wear it like this fir a bit before going back to the bracelet.

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[DMCutter]

I have a Dievas Focal, microbrand I guess out of Hong Kong but assembled in Germany. Long Island watch used to represent them but last time I emailed them I got no response. It's a Fricker case as far as I know, and an ETA 2824-2 movement. The crown has only about 1/3 turn of engagement anymore and I would like to get that rectified. Hopefully just the crown tube vs the crown itself but that's above my pay grade. I know I've seen mention in this thread of a good repair/restoration shop, and I think it was in NC, but I've searched the thread and not found it. Can anyone point me in the right direction? I believe there's a watchmaker at our local high end watch AD but I'm half afraid he'd just shame my trash watch purchase.

[vcdgrips]

https://rightontimewatches.com/

The owner is Ryan Bond.

Ryan is a SWATCH Group trained watch maker out of their school in FLA.

He was on staff at a big store in the metro area before going out on his own.

He is active in the Red Bar Group here in the KC metro despite relocating to NC in the last year or 2 to be closer to family.

He enjoys an excellent reputation of doing quality wk on time and on budget.

I used him to do a full service on a 70’s Seiko 6309 that went very well.

Given that we are talking about a workhorse Swiss movement, I would be stunned if he could not get that watch fixed with relative ease.

[DMCutter]

vcdgrips, thank you very much. I'll get in touch with him.

[HeavyDuty]

The Strapcode microadjust buckle arrived, and I’m not sure about it.

The good is that it’s well made for the price, is a good length and fits my Baby Tuna bracelet width. However, there’s quite a bit extra space between the clasp and bracelet on one side (pardon the filthy watch, it has gotten a lot of wear):

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The other side is fine:

127887

Gonna think about this a little, I can see catching that on things.

[Wondering Beard]

For some humor and ... well ... some real ugly watches.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhQNBX2ORF0

[jeep45238]

127983

[Crawls]

127999

[davisj]

Relatively new model from Seiko. Received today and promptly replaced the bracelet with a Strap Habit strap. The only feature lacking is AR coating on the sapphire crystal and at this price that isn’t a concern for me.

Some details from Gnomon (not where I purchased this watch).

https://www.gnomonwatches.com/products/prospex-200m-diver-scuba-black-ref-sbdj063?srsltid=AfmBOorjKVDRPFrQlPORFeMvZYN08Uxf7I ZLKdGQ2Sok3Iko06MmlJqQ

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[jeep45238]

127983

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Swapped to a vintage blue leather strap from Monstrap in about 20 seconds flat. Pretty sure I'm going to be enthusiastic about quick-change bracelet/strap combos on anything but divers going forward.

It's also my first strap that cost more than 30 bucks, and wow is there a difference in comfort and attention to detail.

[Crusader]

128061

Swapped to a vintage blue leather strap from Monstrap in about 20 seconds flat. Pretty sure I'm going to be enthusiastic about quick-change bracelet/strap combos on anything but divers going forward.

It's also my first strap that cost more than 30 bucks, and wow is there a difference in comfort and attention to detail.

Good looking strap, but I much prefer that watch on the bracelet. To me that watch just screams bracelet.

[jeep45238]

Good looking strap, but I much prefer that watch on the bracelet. To me that watch just screams bracelet.

That's the cool thing - you can go between the two of them without much time or effort, without tools, as your heart desires :)

[Crusader]

That's the cool thing - you can go between the two of them without much time or effort, without tools, as your heart desires :)

Very true, I have a Tissot PRX power 80 with the integrated bracelet. It has the easy to remove bracelet/strap system too, I did get a strap for it. But just love it too much with the bracelet, I’ve never worn it on the strap.

https://i.postimg.cc/tJBhx617/IMG-9705.jpg (https://postimg.cc/9wqR3rYj)

[Colt191145lover]

Relatively new model from Seiko. Received today and promptly replaced the bracelet with a Strap Habit strap. The only feature lacking is AR coating on the sapphire crystal and at this price that isn’t a concern for me.

Some details from Gnomon (not where I purchased this watch).

https://www.gnomonwatches.com/products/prospex-200m-diver-scuba-black-ref-sbdj063?srsltid=AfmBOorjKVDRPFrQlPORFeMvZYN08Uxf7I ZLKdGQ2Sok3Iko06MmlJqQ

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I like that !

[theJanitor]

I'm going to be in Tokyo in February. Are there any JDM-only Seikos I should be looking at? I don't really have a budget for anything new, but it can't hurt to look

[PNWTO]

I'm going to be in Tokyo in February. Are there any JDM-only Seikos I should be looking at? I don't really have a budget for anything new, but it can't hurt to look

There’s always some fun JDM Seikos that are never discussed domestically unless you get wayyy into the weeds. So probably some fun surprises.

I’ve been browsing JDM Grand Seikos and, more likely, JDM “The Citizens”.

Wallet hurt is probably inbound.

[HeavyDuty]

128061

Swapped to a vintage blue leather strap from Monstrap in about 20 seconds flat. Pretty sure I'm going to be enthusiastic about quick-change bracelet/strap combos on anything but divers going forward.

It's also my first strap that cost more than 30 bucks, and wow is there a difference in comfort and attention to detail.

That is a damn attractive watch - I love the dial texture and color.

[jeep45238]

There’s always some fun JDM Seikos that are never discussed domestically unless you get wayyy into the weeds. So probably some fun surprises.

I’ve been browsing JDM Grand Seikos and, more likely, JDM “The Citizens”.

Wallet hurt is probably inbound.


The Citizen NB1060 (green dial specifically) are a major "wow", let alone at the price point. Citizen's AQ4100-65H is really high up on the "wow" factor, but so is the price tag. Grand Seiko's SLGA019 is a huge want. I have difficulty justifying any watch that's 4 digits at this point in my life, but it's still fun window shopping.



That is a damn attractive watch - I love the dial texture and color.

Thank you. The Tsuyosa Small Seconds has been on an affordable want list since it's been introduced, and it does make me smile quite a bit. I threw it on this morning and then swapped to an Orient Mako 2 Pepsi on a strapco FKM strap when I remembered I was doing field work for the next couple days.

[MountainRaven]

One of The Slow Mo Guys takes a look at the back of his Omega Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon using his slow motion camera, microscope attachments, and macro lenses:


https://youtu.be/vSeSt70Q_Zk

[PNWTO]

Citizen's AQ4100-65H is really high up on the "wow" factor…

The 65H and 57B are my front runners right now, with the 65H being ahead by a nose. I think the elite Citizens can go toe-to-toe with a lot of the Grand Seiko 9F lineup.

[NPV]

Those Citizens and Seikos upthread are hot, I wish I had the budget for one. Same old here….
128120

[Spartan1980]

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[RoyGBiv]

128122
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Very nice. And very reasonably priced. :cool:

If there's a no-date version of this, please don't tell me where to find it. :rolleyes:

[jeep45238]

If there's a no-date version of this, please don't tell me where to find it. :rolleyes:

I vaguely remember searching for that, and not finding it last year. I think all Seiko 5's are Date or Day/Date.

[MountainRaven]

Is it really a Seiko 5 if it doesn't have a day/date complication?

[Spartan1980]

I vaguely remember searching for that, and not finding it last year. I think all Seiko 5's are Date or Day/Date.

I think I've looked at all the 5's over that last couple of years and can't remember one that didn't have day/date in it. I'm no expert though, this is my second 5. There will probably be more at some point. I have an affliction...

[Spartan1980]

Very nice. And very reasonably priced. :cool:

If there's a no-date version of this, please don't tell me where to find it. :rolleyes:

I got it for a Bennie under that price on the box. :cool:

[RoyGBiv]

I got it for a Bennie under that price on the box. :cool:

Didn't catch that one. I found it on Joma for about that (bennie under box).
Been telling myself I don't need another watch all day... TYVM. :p

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[ST911]

Is it really a Seiko 5 if it doesn't have a day/date complication?


I think I've looked at all the 5's over that last couple of years and can't remember one that didn't have day/date in it. I'm no expert though, this is my second 5. There will probably be more at some point. I have an affliction...

The SSK GMTs are date-only, a few others.
https://seikousa.com/products/ssk005

[RoyGBiv]

The SSK GMTs are date-only, a few others.
https://seikousa.com/products/ssk005

If forced to have at least one, am I the only one who would prefer to have the day of the week and not the date/day of the month on my watch?

I way more often care about whether it's Wednesday or Thursday than whether it's the 25th or 26th.

And, bonus, you never have to advance the day of the week at the end of the month.

[ST911]

If forced to have at least one, am I the only one who would prefer to have the day of the week and not the date/day of the month on my watch? I way more often care about whether it's Wednesday or Thursday than whether it's the 25th or 26th. And, bonus, you never have to advance the day of the week at the end of the month.

Dunno, but it seems to be the date I always use the watch for.

[Crusader]

I always prefer to have a date complication on my watch and don’t mind a day/date. I have several of each type, while I will normally not buy a watch without a date, I rarely search for a day/date. Usually a watch I like just happens to have it, I don’t consider the extra time needed to set them as a choir or a hinderance and like the look. Pretty much a none issue for me.

[jeep45238]

I always prefer to have a date complication on my watch and don’t mind a day/date. I have several of each type, while I will normally not buy a watch without a date, I rarely search for a day/date. Usually a watch I like just happens to have it, I don’t consider the extra time needed to set them as a choir or a hinderance and like the look. Pretty much a none issue for me.

Totally applicable if:

1) Your watches are quartz/solar (or the lone mechanical and you wear daily)

Not applicable if one of a few, it's mechanical, and your dive takes a bit to restore.

[Spartan1980]

Didn't catch that one. I found it on Joma for about that (bennie under box).
Been telling myself I don't need another watch all day... TYVM. :p

128145

Joma is where I got it. :D

[Crusader]

Totally applicable if:

1) Your watches are quartz/solar (or the lone mechanical and you wear daily)

Not applicable if one of a few, it's mechanical, and your dive takes a bit to restore.

I would have to do an inventory for an exact count. But I’d say I have roughly 15 auto/mechanical watches with a date complication and probably around 5 of them are day/date.

The way I usually rotate my watches I’ll pic one and set it, then wear it for around a week or so. If an outing or occasion comes up that I want a different one from my collection not an issue for me I’ll just set that one.

When I’m not wearing them I let them run completely down and store them that way, I don’t find the time necessary to set them a problem especially since all my watches have a quick set date or day date. Literally takes just a minute to do, I always just consider it part of the joy in owning auto/mechanical watches.

[Crusader]

With date complications I’ve noticed my preference for placement has changed over time, use to be that I didn’t mind a 4 o’clock date. I currently own a few with it, but I’ll never buy another just don’t like it anymore.

The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms is a gorgeous outstanding Luxury watch, but money aside I would not own one. That 4:30ish date just turns me off completely to the watch.

Always have been a fan of the 3 o’clock and still like it, but find myself liking the 6 o’clock location even more now. As far as the much less common 9 and 12 o’clock, I find it odd and maybe just too different. I remember back in the day almost buying an Orient dive watch with a 9 o’clock, think it was a M-Force. But I just wasn’t adventurous enough to do it, wish I would have, fairly rare watch now.

I am thinking about a Mido TV big date with the 12 o’clock big date complication, I think I will get it at some point. Good looking and interesting watch.

[Crawls]

128256
SPB183-J1 Really enjoying this one.

[4RNR]

I always prefer to have a date complication on my watch and don’t mind a day/date. I have several of each type, while I will normally not buy a watch without a date, I rarely search for a day/date. Usually a watch I like just happens to have it, I don’t consider the extra time needed to set them as a choir or a hinderance and like the look. Pretty much a none issue for me.

Same. I prefer both, day/date, and I actively look for those features. I would LOVE to find a 40-43mm in manual wind with day/date but it seems like those are almost impossible to find. I bought one Soviet watch like that but it doesnt function properly. The seconds hand gets stuck at the 4 and 12.

[PNWTO]

https://sangininstruments.com/products/kingmaker

These are up for preorder tomorrow, if anyone cares.

Not connected to Sangin, but this is a good start for a minimalist collection and definitely takes a swing at the Hamilton Khaki/Murph field watch segment.

39mm with a 10ish mm thickness, with the bracelet could definitely be adapted to 99% of dress suggestions.

Should be about $750 w/o bracelet and $900 with it. I think Sangin and Nodus are very connected logistically so should be a stellar bracelet for the price bracket.

[Wyoming Shooter]

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[ST911]

https://sangininstruments.com/products/kingmaker These are up for preorder tomorrow, if anyone cares. Not connected to Sangin, but this is a good start for a minimalist collection and definitely takes a swing at the Hamilton Khaki/Murph field watch segment. 39mm with a 10ish mm thickness, with the bracelet could definitely be adapted to 99% of dress suggestions. Should be about $750 w/o bracelet and $900 with it. I think Sangin and Nodus are very connected logistically so should be a stellar bracelet for the price bracket.

As of this post, all variants still available. Surprised, given the cult following.

[PNWTO]

As of this post, all variants still available. Surprised, given the cult following.

Jake said they’d take orders for 24hrs, or whenever they hit their production limit, whichever happens first. So for a September delivery target, it’s probably a notable quota.

And they (Sangin) still have some quartz models that have been on in stock since the 1st.

[PNWTO]

Happy little surprise just arrived from the wife; apparently to commemorate another +1 to the GS level and because I’m a little more tolerable as a spouse than I would have thought. Came with three straps and the bracelet; all are very nice.

Very impressed. As usual, pictures are a really an injustice to watches.

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[Wondering Beard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dbTe4toF4E

[HeavyDuty]

Is it bad that I found a watch in my box that I forgot I had? SSK003:

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[DMCutter]

Sig has a collaboration with Ares now. Cool watches, except for the big Sig on the dial. Ares' GMTs look cool, hadn't seen those before. I think my new years resolution should be to quit buying shit until I wear out everything I have now.

[Crusader]

Sig has a collaboration with Ares now. Cool watches, except for the big Sig on the dial. Ares' GMTs look cool, hadn't seen those before. I think my new years resolution should be to quit buying shit until I wear out everything I have now.

Really hard to wear out a good watch or a good gun for that matter.

[ST911]

Is it bad that I found a watch in my box that I forgot I had? SSK003:

I have one of these and like it. 3-5 seconds a day +/- playing with positions. Better than I would've thought. The spring bars are smaller diameter and tips than I expected for a diver-inspired, so I've been a little tentative about some straps. Has a heft to it, but doesn't wear too heavy.

[Crawls]

My all time favorite digital watch, the iconic GW-5000U:
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[Crusader]

I’d like to get the hives thoughts on this watch, I am very close to pressing the trigger on it. What’s holding me back, the Roman numerals at 12 and 6 just not a fan. But everything else is spot on for me, if it just had indices at 12 and 6 I’d already own it, can I get past them is the question. Fit and finish looks outstanding especially for the price, love the style and power meter.

https://i.postimg.cc/Rhk2cPpY/IMG-1169.jpg (https://postimages.org/)
Video
https://youtu.be/a6vBXLvd76M

[jeep45238]

Helm Vanuatu Ti on the strap - figure it will likely wear the matching engineer's bracelet long term, but a pop of color on day 1 is nice to see on the wrist.

128704


I’d like to get the hives thoughts on this watch, I am very close to pressing the trigger on it. What’s holding me back, the Roman numerals at 12 and 6 just not a fan. But everything else is spot on for me, if it just had indices at 12 and 6 I’d already own it, can I get past them is the question. Fit and finish looks outstanding especially for the price, love the style and power meter.

https://i.postimg.cc/Rhk2cPpY/IMG-1169.jpg (https://postimages.org/)


I've come close, but couldn't for similar design reasons - they do have a plain dial with numerals that I think addresses a lot of it, but it's hard to find in anything but a blue dial.
https://www.jomashop.com/orient-star-watch-re-au0207l00b.html

[theJanitor]

I lost another bezel marker on Saturday. This time it’s the “25” minute marker. But I was carrying rocks all day so I guess it’s no surprise😂

128847
128848

[jeep45238]

I lost another bezel marker on Saturday. This time it’s the “25” minute marker. But I was carrying rocks all day so I guess it’s no surprise😂

128847


Wow. Is this a Tudor thing, or that specific model? Doesn't seem like you really put it through any undue use from my side of the house (I have a soft spot for a 39mm Pelagos, but can't justify it).

[theJanitor]

Wow. Is this a Tudor thing, or that specific model? Doesn't seem like you really put it through any undue use from my side of the house (I have a soft spot for a 39mm Pelagos, but can't justify it).

I think it's this particular model and this particular vintage (2013). I certainly don't baby it, and it can get pretty rough, depending on what I'm doing. I've broken this s couple times, but I really can't ask for more, regarding toughness.

[Crusader]

Nothing that can’t be easily fixed when it’s service time. That wouldn’t bother me much, as long as she’s keeping good time I can live with cosmetic issues.

[Ben_G]

I've been wanting/saving for a Tudor GMT for a hot second, and after getting something big finalized at SHOT (more on that later), I decided to celebrate. Cherry on top: when I got back to Nashville, our lead engraver from Italy was still in town for SCI, and he was kind enough to add some embellishment on the deployment clasp.

128900 128901 128902

[Dark Star Gear]

I've been wanting/saving for a Tudor GMT for a hot second, and after getting something big finalized at SHOT (more on that later), I decided to celebrate. Cherry on top: when I got back to Nashville, our lead engraver from Italy was still in town for SCI, and he was kind enough to add some embellishment on the deployment clasp.

128900 128901 128902

That's nuts. We've only been F2F a few times, but this watch is 100% you. The extra touches are priceless.

[Wyoming Shooter]

It's still brand new so, I can't offer a review. So far, I like it.

129039

[MountainRaven]

Dear Mr. Vice President, Please Take Off Your Apple Watch (https://www.watchesofespionage.com/blogs/woe-dispatch/vice-president-jd-vance-apple-watch-smartwatch-intelligence-risks)

Mr. Vice President,

Congratulations on your ascendancy to the Vice President of the United States of America. While we are an apolitical platform, we wish you nothing but success, the country depends on you.

In a recent picture of you onboard Air Force Two, we couldn't help but notice the Apple Watch on your left wrist. As a former CIA case officer who spent most of his adult life recruiting spies and stealing secrets, I feel implored to highlight some of the potential vulnerabilities of your smartwatch before suggesting a simple solution.

tl;dr, take off the intelligence exploitation tool, Mr. VP, and strap on a real watch.

[HeavyDuty]

I finally found a G-Shock that I can see wearing - a GW-3000B-1AJF. Stock picture:

129391

I’m a sucker for black and orange watches.

[jeep45238]

I finally found a G-Shock that I can see wearing - a GW-3000B-1AJF. Stock picture:

129391

I’m a sucker for black and orange watches.

The black-orange is something I can really vibe with, I just haven't found one that vibes with me (yet). I trend towards a more simple dial layout, and fancier details (like dial textures, or lume blocks, etc.).

[Crusader]

That’s a nice one, what are the dimensions on it. Yeah I know G-Shocks are big but that actually looks smaller then my Mudmaster.

[HeavyDuty]

I’m not sure, I didn’t have much luck finding it on the Casio website so it may be discontinued. Sakura says 49.8mm, so big.

[Crusader]

I’m not sure, I didn’t have much luck finding it on the Casio website so it may be discontinued. Sakura says 49.8mm, so big.

Ok that’s about the same as my Mudmaster, the all black probably gives it a slimmer/smaller look. Very cool G-Shock for sure.

[Wyoming Shooter]

My newest: https://tacticalfrogwatch.com/products/new-releas-tactical-frog-titanium-fx-diving-vs75b-solar-chronograph-watch. I've taken a liking to titanium, solar quartz watches.

129448

[Crawls]

Seiko PADI Turtle on a single pass navy Zulu strap:

129466

[perlslacker]

My newest: https://tacticalfrogwatch.com/products/new-releas-tactical-frog-titanium-fx-diving-vs75b-solar-chronograph-watch. I've taken a liking to titanium, solar quartz watches.

129448

I love this, but then I'm a sucker for panda dial chronos.

[HeavyDuty]

I can see how people get into G-Shocks. Watching it sort itself out after changing time zones is almost creepy.

129618

[theJanitor]

On the subway in Tokyo today

129654

[theJanitor]

Brand new FXD in Tokyo. DEC2024 production. $3000 even.

129671

[DamonL]

Similar in price to a nice custom 1911.

[DMCutter]

Similar in price to a nice custom 1911.

But TSA friendly.

[TOTS]

Brand new FXD in Tokyo. DEC2024 production. $3000 even.


Six months into my wait and IWC hasn’t even started making the watch I ordered yet. You are making a strong case for canceling my order and moving towards a Pelagos.

[HeavyDuty]

Brand new FXD in Tokyo. DEC2024 production. $3000 even.

129671

Did it follow you home?

[DMCutter]

Six months into my wait and IWC hasn’t even started making the watch I ordered yet. You are making a strong case for canceling my order and moving towards a Pelagos.

Hell yeah. Catch a space-A flight to Japan, hop on the Shin to the Ginza, buy a cheap watch, and head on home. Piece o' cake.

[Up1911Fan]

Date night with the wife. Tudor BB39 on 5 link.
129694

[theJanitor]

Did it follow you home?

Yes, but it's for a co-worker. He bought a Seamaster the last time he was in Tokyo, and asked me to nab this for him. I CANNOT believe how busy that store was. There was everything you could want, but not find in the states. And I had money in my hand, and still had to wait half an hour for an associate to free up. Mind you, they had about ten associates closing deals. It was wild.

Then while I was in the "closing" room, an associate walked in with a stack of cash and a money counter, counted out a huge sum of money for a couple and they parted ways soon after. I really wanted to know what they sold to the shop.

129831

[Ben_G]

Brand new FXD in Tokyo. DEC2024 production. $3000 even.

129671

That's a darn hard price to beat on one of those. Is it just the exchange rate that's in favor of the USD right now, or that shop in particular? Either way, love me the FXD. I tried one on here in town and its light and comfortable enough I can see that being a watch you forget you're wearing.

[theJanitor]

The exchange rate is very much in the dollar's favor. But I assume it's the combination of two rates that make the difference.

The watch is certainly nice, and for my co-worker's activities (sailing, surfing, snowboarding, skiing, etc), the fixed springbars make the most sense

[HeavyDuty]

Are any of y’all G-Shock modders? I’m standing on the edge of the rabbit hole peering in. I used to do a little light Seiko Monster modding, but G-Shock modding is a new thing for me.

[RJ]

Welp five years and my Timex didn’t light up at night any more with the Indiglo. Guessing battery on way out.

Splurged $40 for a new one in basic black.

https://a.co/d/bqL04Rs

130013

[theJanitor]

Who's got fabric/velcro band suggestions for the fixed bar Tudor FXD?

[Le Français]

The thing about the FXD that makes me nervous is that if that thing got seriously snagged on something, the point of least resistance would be the skin and flesh of the wearer’s hand instead of spring bar pins.

[SS90]

Who's got fabric/velcro band suggestions for the fixed bar Tudor FXD?

Erika’s Originals sells a FXD specific version of their MN strap. I don’t have an FXD, but I do have an EO strap on my Marathon TSAR and love it. Little pricey, but excellent quality. Mine has held up really well after a couple years of use.

[DMCutter]

Who's got fabric/velcro band suggestions for the fixed bar Tudor FXD?

Go to the Rolex and Tudor subforum on Watchuseek.com and look at the FXD owners thread. EO are popular but there are a multitude of options.

[MountainRaven]

Second the EO MN straps.

Watches of Espionage sells a similar strap called the WOE-ZA Commando strap, supposedly made to a Commando Hubert request, although they appear to be out of stock. (And these are a one-size-fits-most, any color you want so long as it's green with a yellow center stripe option.)

Nick Mankey Designs makes some nice straps, too, that I also like, but his wait times are quite long. Although I've seen there is a watch shop online out of San Francisco stocks them and they ship immediately.

But I think my first choice would be the Erika's.

[GJM]

Erika's MN all the way.

130342

[4RNR]

Erika's MN all the way.

130342

This is what I use, only from a different company. This type of strap is the only one that seems to work for me. The more traditional ones are either too tight or too loose.

[willie]

I get screwed on watch deals. Last week I bought a fake Timex.

[theJanitor]

Thanks, my guy ordered from Nick Mankey for his new FXD.

[SouthNarc]

Erika's MN all the way.

130342

Concur. I have one on the Seiko diver I bought at the Benning PX in ‘87.

[SouthNarc]

Speaking of straps I just got this one made from 1930s era leather Swiss ammo pouches from Fin Watch Straps for my 42mm Laco Paderborn B-Uhr Flieger.

[vcdgrips]

Love that repurposed strap!!!

[PNWTO]

For any hardcore photography nerds here, this is really, really cool. (https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/the-nodux-x-beers-and-cameras-obscura-a-watch-for-analog-photographers)

130471

[HeavyDuty]

For any hardcore photography nerds here, this is really, really cool. (https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/the-nodux-x-beers-and-cameras-obscura-a-watch-for-analog-photographers)

130471

That’s great! I used to be able to do it all in my head on the fly, but I’ve definitely slowed down. I’ll have to look at this.

[Up1911Fan]

130488

[BillSWPA]

Speaking of straps I just got this one made from 1930s era leather Swiss ammo pouches from Fin Watch Straps for my 42mm Laco Paderborn B-Uhr Flieger.

That is a neat watch!

Does anyone know of a less expensive quartz watch with a similar dial (hour markers lined up with the hour hand and minute markers lined up with the minute hand)? It may have value as a teaching tool.

[APS-PF]

That is a neat watch!

Does anyone know of a less expensive quartz watch with a similar dial (hour markers lined up with the hour hand and minute markers lined up with the minute hand)? It may have value as a teaching tool.

Longislandwatch.com has a few if you search Pilot and Quartz models.
https://longislandwatch.com/pilot-watches/#/filter:movement_type:Analog$2520Quartz

[Wyoming Shooter]

130520

This watch was love at first sight. Titanium. Atomic. Solar. Boom!

[vcdgrips]

I have that Oceanus in the more “silver” tone. My COVID watch. Bought off Ebay on a Monday from a retailer in Japan. Had it late WEDS vis DHL to KC.


LOVE IT- Sometimes, I change the time setting just to watch the hands and date move. CHI TO TOY and back etc.

If it is not going to get regular wear, consider a “solar” watch charger. I have had mine go into needs a charge mode ( ticks every 3 seconds.)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C3XG7NHK?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1

[Wyoming Shooter]

I have that Oceanus in the more “silver” tone. My COVID watch. Bought off Ebay on a Monday from a retailer in Japan. Had it late WEDS vis DHL to KC.


LOVE IT- Sometimes, I change the time setting just to watch the hands and date move. CHI TO TOY and back etc.

If it is not going to get regular wear, consider a “solar” watch charger. I have had mine go into needs a charge mode ( ticks every 3 seconds.)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C3XG7NHK?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1

From eBay order to delivery in the Big Empty was 6 days via FedEx. Thank gawd it didn't come by USPS. I'm using an east-facing window sill as my "solar charger". 😁

[BillSWPA]

Longislandwatch.com has a few if you search Pilot and Quartz models.
https://longislandwatch.com/pilot-watches/#/filter:movement_type:Analog$2520Quartz

Thanks!

[HeavyDuty]

130520

This watch was love at first sight. Titanium. Atomic. Solar. Boom!

That is gorgeous! As a recent discoverer of G-Shocks, that really appeals as an everyday business casual watch.

[HeavyDuty]

This one is making me verklempt:

https://www.citizenwatch-global.com/one/product.html

130533

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[jeep45238]

This one is making me verklempt:

https://www.citizenwatch-global.com/one/product.html




There's high probability of this being a one/done for me:

https://www.citizenwatch.com/us/en/product/AQ4100-65L.html?cgid=mens

+/-5 sec/year with thermal-calibration
Great Dial
Saphire
Titanium
Perpetual Calendar

[HeavyDuty]

There's high probability of this being a one/done for me:

https://www.citizenwatch.com/us/en/product/AQ4100-65L.html?cgid=mens

+/-5 sec/year with thermal-calibration
Great Dial
Saphire
Titanium
Perpetual Calendar

That looks amazing.

[HeavyDuty]

Cheap watch day - this one had an almost illegible dial since only the little pips on the chapter ring were orange and the actual hour markers were black. Ten minutes and a $5 AliExpress luminous orange hour marker ring later…

130547

[RevolverRob]

130548130549

[GJM]

Glad I got my CWC before the big guy implements a tariff on U.K. stuff.

130564

[Elwin]

An Orient Kamasu is nothing special in the big picture, but exciting for me. I've been wearing a watch every day since college, and for most of that time it's been a basic Timex Weekender. It's definitely served long and well, but in my 30s now it's time for something with a bit more character. Given I'm consistent in wearing a watch daily (I feel naked leaving the house for the day without one), I figured I could justify an automatic.

That and it looks great with a NATO band, which is my strong preference for all situations where I'm not wearing a tie.

130692

[pangloss]

I shouldn't even look at this thread. I have my Garmin, and I'm addicted to the data it gives me. I'd sure like an aesthetically pleasing watch, but I just can't give up the Garmin data.

[theJanitor]

I shouldn't even look at this thread. I have my Garmin, and I'm addicted to the data it gives me. I'd sure like an aesthetically pleasing watch, but I just can't give up the Garmin data.

you were issued two wrists for this very scenario

[Crusader]

An Orient Kamasu is nothing special in the big picture, but exciting for me. I've been wearing a watch every day since college, and for most of that time it's been a basic Timex Weekender. It's definitely served long and well, but in my 30s now it's time for something with a bit more character. Given I'm consistent in wearing a watch daily (I feel naked leaving the house for the day without one), I figured I could justify an automatic.

That and it looks great with a NATO band, which is my strong preference for all situations where I'm not wearing a tie.

130692

Orient makes a good watch, I’ve owned a Kamasu for many years. I wear it on a bracelet now, solid automatic.

https://i.postimg.cc/YCnFrFSD/F5182197-AACC-4-A67-9-FB6-DF4-F78-AA6951.jpg (https://postimg.cc/LJP5vnLj)

I also have an Orient Neptune, 2018 model with power reserve indicator. It’s my favorite Oreint.
https://i.postimg.cc/0NNjv3Sg/IMG-9345.jpg (https://postimg.cc/5XZbqspp)

My other Orient in a 2021 model M-Force, a tank of a watch but tough as nails.
https://i.postimg.cc/PJNC1jmT/29-FB1263-16-B3-47-F7-9504-103-E2-E611-B95.jpg (https://postimg.cc/305rHzSc)

I prefer Orient styling over its big brother Seiko.

[Elwin]

In the research I did it was hard to find someone who wasn’t happy with their Orient. I got turned onto them by my friend who’s a bit of a watch nerd; he recommended them over Seiko, and the Kamasu specifically for having a sapphire bezel at the price point.

This is probably about where I’m going to hang out for watches unless I can justify a Sinn down the road.

[jeep45238]

This is probably about where I’m going to hang out for watches unless I can justify a Sinn down the road.

Orients are really solid. I had one for a while and really liked it - only moved it along when I realized it was cheaper to sell/buy than modify it to get the desired end watch features/looks that I was after.

Flipside, a Helm Vanuatu is heavily inspired by Sinn, and you can have the factory do bezel swap for you to suit your tastes. It's no Sinn, but it's also a fraction of the price - a little more expensive than Orient, and generally cheaper than Seiko's and Citizens (runs a seiko movement)

There is a waiting list since they are maintaining an production limit to keep qa/qc high, so many people sign up, but don't buy - you can "short cut" by hanging out on some Facebook groups where they'll give the details for the next drop for free.

[HeavyDuty]

Orients are really solid. I had one for a while and really liked it - only moved it along when I realized it was cheaper to sell/buy than modify it to get the desired end watch features/looks that I was after.

Flipside, a Helm Vanuatu is heavily inspired by Sinn, and you can have the factory do bezel swap for you to suit your tastes. It's no Sinn, but it's also a fraction of the price - a little more expensive than Orient, and generally cheaper than Seiko's and Citizens (runs a seiko movement)

There is a waiting list since they are maintaining an production limit to keep qa/qc high, so many people sign up, but don't buy - you can "short cut" by hanging out on some Facebook groups where they'll give the details for the next drop for free.

I hadn’t heard of Helm before - this Khuraburi is really attractive!

130697

[Crawls]

Just to jump in on the Orient bandwagon:
130700

[jeep45238]

Just to jump in on the Orient bandwagon:
130700

Nice!

For the Orient fans, Long Island watch has some stellar bracelet upgrades for the popular models.

[vcdgrips]

The thing I most like about Orient is their use of sapphire at much more modest price points than than Seikos.

Big Brother should take the hint.

[Elwin]

The thing I most like about Orient is their use of sapphire at much more modest price points than than Seikos.

Big Brother should take the hint.

It made it very easy to spring for the Kamasu at $214 (saving money by getting it with a rubber strap since I plan on using exclusively NATO anyway). Two bills for a watch that has an established quality/price ratio and a well regarded movement plus the sapphire was a pretty quick purchasing decision to make. I plan to wear it every day during whatever I’m doing so I know it’ll get knocked around, meaning sapphire was a big plus.

[Crusader]

The thing I most like about Orient is their use of sapphire at much more modest price points than than Seikos.

Big Brother should take the hint.

I agree Seiko selling watches for twice the price of Orient with hardlex mineral crystal instead of sapphire is pure cost cutting their customers.

There are many Chinese watches for far less then Seiko that use sapphire along with the Seiko movement, many are just as good as a Seiko and much cheaper and you get sapphire.

I have a diamond tester that I check all my watch crystals with, I have yet to buy a Chinese watch advertising a sapphire crystal that didn’t actually have one.

[MountainRaven]

I shouldn't even look at this thread. I have my Garmin, and I'm addicted to the data it gives me. I'd sure like an aesthetically pleasing watch, but I just can't give up the Garmin data.

Might I recommend purchasing a Vivosmart for your opposite wrist for when you are not being active or sleeping?

[Andy in NH]

I've had this one for about three decades.

Lots of batteries and lots of watch bands.

I should probably send it to Spencer Klein for refurbishment.

130726

[Ed L]

I was not really a watch person until I recently got interested. I don't have a collection (yet) but I did find this interesting Pan Am themed Timex. When I was growing up Pan Am was one of the larger airlines and was a well-known name.

Here is the watch, though the sub-dials are not readable to my naked eye:

130729

And here is a picture of the vintage style box that it came in:

130730

[HeavyDuty]

I was not really a watch person until I recently got interested. I don't have a collection (yet) but I did find this interesting Pan Am themed Timex. When I was growing up Pan Am was one of the larger airlines and was a well-known name.

Here is the watch, though the sub-dials are not readable to my naked eye:

130729

And here is a picture of the vintage style box that it came in:

130730

Nice watch! Those Timex Waterburys have attracted my eye more than once.

[Wondering Beard]

A sober outlook on the industry.



https://youtu.be/EOV403qPIoo?si=b1UiZr8B8O1as1GH

[4RNR]

I was not really a watch person until I recently got interested. I don't have a collection (yet)



Thats pretty much me. Ive had watches on and off throughout the years but would misplace them or forget about putting it on one day and a few years later realize i used to have a watch somewhere. Then I'd buy another one and find the old one...

Currently Im wearing a Seiko SRPG automatic. Has been my daily watch for a few years now

[Crusader]

I’m an Orient fan have three auto divers and a solar chrono, been wanting to try an Orient Star for a while. I have had my eye on the Orient Star contemporary with the white dial for a bit, while the price is very inviting it can be found for roughly $380. I never pressed the trigger on one until now, had a $70 bonus on a card that made the total price $340 delivered from Japan.

Watch actually arrived five days earlier then I expected it, nice surprise. Stats on the watch 38.5mm case, 12.4mm thick, only 46mm lug to lug bracelet is 20mm tapering to 18. Case is a combination of brushed and polished SS with a polished bezel, sapphire crystal, but only mineral crystal on the exhibition case back. Dial is a white/off white depending on light exposer, polished applied indices with Roman numeral 12 and 6, polished date window border at the three o’clock. Hour and minute hand are a combination of brushed and polished with a generous amount of center lum, second hand and power reserve meter hands are a royal blue. Bracelet is mostly brushed with polished outer center links, clasp is milled no stamped steel with three micro adjustments. Links are held together with pins and collars, easy to remove with the proper tools, took me about five minutes to adjust to my wrist. It is a really nice, comfortable bracelet.

Bang for the buck is really of the chart for this watch, fit and finish is very high. Certainly above your normal Orient, I have three minor grips with it though. One I could do without the Roman numerals, but I get it many will like it. Two wish they would have used sapphire on the case back, but again not a big issue and for the low price I get the cost cutting move. Three while the size and function of the crown is perfect and the OS signing is great, the large coin edge is a bit to rough for the watches styling.

The movement is Orient's in house F6N43 22 jewels and 21,600 beats and a 50 hour power reserve, I’ve been running it for a few days and so far she is running about 6 seconds fast a day. I’ll see if she settles after more use/wear, if not 6 fast a day is well within my comfort for an auto. The Orient in house movements are not lookers but they did dress is up a little with polishing and gold colored applied leaders on the rotor, not a bad effort.

I’m gonna keep her and put it in my watch rotation, it works as a dress watch or an integrated sports watch. Should add that water resistance is 100 meters, so no worrying about getting her wet.
https://i.postimg.cc/5NQ3LSB9/IMG-9906.jpg (https://postimg.cc/jLKPrN3B)
https://i.postimg.cc/DwVcg46r/IMG-9909.jpg (https://postimg.cc/PP4ZfxBJ)
https://i.postimg.cc/Zn2xXWSh/IMG-9910.jpg (https://postimg.cc/FkbSLszP)

[Up1911Fan]

While I do like aluminum and ceramic, steel bezels might be my favorite.
131152

[Crusader]

While I do like aluminum and ceramic, steel bezels might be my favorite.
131152

I like them too, on the right watch. They fit your Tudor’s nicely.

It’s one of my favorite features of my Ulysse Nardin Marine Diver.

https://i.postimg.cc/wByfvf11/IMG-9611.jpg (https://postimg.cc/1gSc7KcS)

[HeavyDuty]

Now this is interesting - Citizen G900 Eco-Drive Minute Repeater

https://www.strapcode.com/blogs/the-latest-watches-news/the-complete-guide-to-minute-repeater-watch-the-citizen-eco-drive-g900

[Wondering Beard]

As it turns out, the Land Dweller is real.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6kRQJWYaps



Terrible name IMO, the aesthetics are meh, but that new movement is something.

[jeep45238]

The new movement is super interesting. It sounds a lot like they're trying to answer Omega's Co-Axial movements.

The laziness of the package is annoying. A laser etched honeycomb, identical 6/9 hands, and a watch that overall looks like a smaller Tissot PRX with a fluted bezel.


As it turns out, the Land Dweller is real.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6kRQJWYaps

Terrible name IMO, the aesthetics are meh, but that new movement is something.

[mtnbkr]

The thing I most like about Orient is their use of sapphire at much more modest price points than than Seikos.

Big Brother should take the hint.

Installing a sapphire crystal is pretty straightforward. I've done several myself.

Chris

[mtnbkr]

Here is my current collection. I got into a watch-building kick around the time of Covid and built the first two (left to right). Both are Seiko NH-series movements with aftermarket dials and sapphire crystals. the case for one started out as a Seiko field watch I bought from Amazon, but I didn't like the dial or strap. One thing led to another and I was suddenly building watches. The other one of the same size was built with parts I sourced from multiple locations and didn't start life as a complete watch. The third watch, the Citizen, is an eco-drive field watch I found for a steal ($40, normally over $100). I didn't like the orangish leather strap, so I replaced it with a rubber one that suits the watch better.

the hardest part of building a watch is setting the hands. I have to wear 6x readers with my face right at the dial to set the hands, especially the seconds hand. Second hardest task is cutting the stem to fit. Stems are hard steel and you're removing tiny bits at a time.

The watch with the green dial doesn't get worn often, which is why it has run down and displays the wrong time. :)

131394


Chris

[Wondering Beard]

The new movement is super interesting. It sounds a lot like they're trying to answer Omega's Co-Axial movements.

The laziness of the package is annoying. A laser etched honeycomb, identical 6/9 hands, and a watch that overall looks like a smaller Tissot PRX with a fluted bezel.

I think they've surpassed Omega's coaxial; this is almost a high beat movement, looks to be more antimagnetic, is much thinner, has a much higher power reserve and probably more accurate than their own "superlative" standard.

The laser etching looks quite involved, but yeah the aesthetics aren't particularly special.

Btw, it looks like all the leaks turned to be real.

[HeavyDuty]

Here is my current collection. I got into a watch-building kick around the time of Covid and built the first two (left to right). Both are Seiko NH-series movements with aftermarket dials and sapphire crystals. the case for one started out as a Seiko field watch I bought from Amazon, but I didn't like the dial or strap. One thing led to another and I was suddenly building watches. The other one of the same size was built with parts I sourced from multiple locations and didn't start life as a complete watch. The third watch, the Citizen, is an eco-drive field watch I found for a steal ($40, normally over $100). I didn't like the orangish leather strap, so I replaced it with a rubber one that suits the watch better.

the hardest part of building a watch is setting the hands. I have to wear 6x readers with my face right at the dial to set the hands, especially the seconds hand. Second hardest task is cutting the stem to fit. Stems are hard steel and you're removing tiny bits at a time.

The watch with the green dial doesn't get worn often, which is why it has run down and displays the wrong time. :)

131394


Chris

I had to pick up a new cheap crystal press, mine is packed somewhere - I needed to remove and remount one on a G-Shock GAB2100 to change the hour indices. Inexpensive watch modding is a blast!

[mtnbkr]

I had to pick up a new cheap crystal press, mine is packed somewhere - I needed to remove and remount one on a G-Shock GAB2100 to change the hour indices. Inexpensive watch modding is a blast!

I think I got mine off of Amazon. I'd like to put a domed sapphire crystal on my Citizen but I need to get the dimensions. The hardlex, or whatever it is Citizen uses, feels cheap on an otherwise nice watch.

Chris

[Wyoming Shooter]

I've become a huge fan of "set it and forget it" watches. This checks the boxes: titanium, solar, atomic, and some moon phase bling.

https://www.citizenwatch.com/us/en/product/BY1010-57L.html

131429

[Dark Star Gear]

The new movement is super interesting. It sounds a lot like they're trying to answer Omega's Co-Axial movements.

The laziness of the package is annoying. A laser etched honeycomb, identical 6/9 hands, and a watch that overall looks like a smaller Tissot PRX with a fluted bezel.

I dig it, but not for me. I cannot look past the Tissot-ness of it. The Tissot's are great watches, and this will probably be fine too, but I see more of an AP wannabe in this than anything else. Overall it strikes me as a watch that will be great on the second version.

[jeep45238]

I dig it, but not for me. I cannot look past the Tissot-ness of it. The Tissot's are great watches, and this will probably be fine too, but I see more of an AP wannabe in this than anything else. Overall it strikes me as a watch that will be great on the second version.

Agreed. I'd really be more interested in a mechanical nerdy video of the movement itself - the Landweller is a pretty low-level design effort for me.

[Cory]

A sober outlook on the industry.



https://youtu.be/EOV403qPIoo?si=b1UiZr8B8O1as1GH


That guy is pretty on point. I desperately want a Submariner Date. They're the epitome of style and usefulness while remaining slightly understated in my mind. They're just plain cool as hell.

Am I as hot to trot about it as I was a few years ago? No. Absolutely no. Not because I think watches aren't cool, but because it's become ridiculous. Grey market watches are more available and cheaper than new examples straight from an AD. I could try on my dream watch, but wasn't allowed to buy it even if I had the staggering price they demand. Eventually wanting something that's so damn unobtainable for me just fell away. I like them, I'd love one, but it's become less and less obtainable. When getting a new one is similarly priced to purchasing an acre of land to shoot on... that's a hard enough pill to swallow. But when the availability is also impossible and the price keeps slowly climbing it becomes a want that just stays as a want. And I've largely lost interest in chasing something I can't have.

At the same time I've started taking my health and fitness more seriously and use the Garmin watch I wear a ton. I honestly just don't see myself getting a Sub regardless of how much I'd like one. It's not enjoyable to perpetually want it, when even if I stomach the price I can't get a new one.

Idk. I'm probably out of the watch interest altogether. And a Tissot looking new Rolex doesn't do anything for me.

[theJanitor]

I guess we could also say that the Tissot looks like the Rolex 1530 from the 70's.

131430

and I did see this jubilee-type integrated bracelet, but I can't find any more details on it except that it was made for the oysterquartz

131431

[Ben_G]

I dig it, but not for me. I cannot look past the Tissot-ness of it. The Tissot's are great watches, and this will probably be fine too, but I see more of an AP wannabe in this than anything else. Overall it strikes me as a watch that will be great on the second version.

I really like the case dimensions and the bracelet. I have an old Oyster Quartz that it looks like they referenced heavily in developing this new one, and it wears great (and this one looks even slimmer than the old quartz case).

But I do NOT like the honeycomb face stuff. it's not detailed enough to look premium, its too modern to mesh with the vintage look of the rest of the watch, and none of that plays with the premium metal price point. I get wanting to experiment with different methods and styles for face decoration, but this execution of it is a miss for me (at least based on the pictures).

[Crusader]

I dig it, but not for me. I cannot look past the Tissot-ness of it. The Tissot's are great watches, and this will probably be fine too, but I see more of an AP wannabe in this than anything else. Overall it strikes me as a watch that will be great on the second version.

To be fair it’s kinda hard to make an integrated bracelet watch that doesn't look like a Tissot PRX or a AP, it’s the style of watch. Tudor and Zenith make them too and yup they look like integrated bracelet watches too. People who are not fans of dive watches say they all look the same.

Modern day integrated bracelet watches are a throwback to the early 70’s when Tissot, AP and others hit the market with them to great fanfare.

I like the look of the Rolex, except for the dial. Don’t care for the honeycomb style at all.

[ST911]

Liking this Merlin from Sangin, https://sangininstruments.com/products/dark-merlin. Nice hand contrast and readability with the DLC finish and black dial. I thought the 39mm might wear a little small for me but it's been okay. I went back and forth between this and a Elliot Brown Holton Pro for this price point.

131526

[TOTS]

131527

131528

Guess I am solidly in the Pilots watch category; seems like that’s all I have now. This was finally delivered yesterday after an 8 month wait. I’ll have to grab some better pictures later. I’m always wanting something different than the standard Rolex, etc.

[Crawls]

Very cool. Worth the wait I'd bet.

[Mercworx]

Liking this Merlin from Sangin, https://sangininstruments.com/products/dark-merlin. Nice hand contrast and readability with the DLC finish and black dial. I thought the 39mm might wear a little small for me but it's been okay. I went back and forth between this and a Elliot Brown Holton Pro for this price point.

131526



That’s funny. I just ordered that exact watch on 4/5 as a birthday gift for myself. I was also torn behind that a the Elliot. I definitely see an Elliot in my future as well.

[rd62]

Airport wrist shot of my new GSAR on the Marathon bracelet.

131731

[theJanitor]

That GSAR is sharp. LIKE

[GJM]

131527

131528

Guess I am solidly in the Pilots watch category; seems like that’s all I have now. This was finally delivered yesterday after an 8 month wait. I’ll have to grab some better pictures later. I’m always wanting something different than the standard Rolex, etc.

How do you like it? I have been looking at an IWC Spitfire.

[GJM]

WOE:

https://www.watchesofespionage.com/blogs/woe-dispatch/watches-shawn-ryan-show-navy-seal-cia

[randyho]

WOE:

https://www.watchesofespionage.com/blogs/woe-dispatch/watches-shawn-ryan-show-navy-seal-cia
Where amazing rabbit holes are commonplace... dang.

[Crusader]

A lot of great watches been posted, I keep going for the like button and then remember it’s gone.

[Crusader]

Anybody own or have any time with a Christopher Ward? Their latest bronze diver has caught my eye.

[MountainRaven]

Anybody own or have any time with a Christopher Ward? Their latest bronze diver has caught my eye.

I have and have had a few.

They're decent, but they use DHL and DHL sucks.

Otherwise, the only things I don't like about them is that they don't always regulate their watches very well. Not in terms of consistency (so much better than comparably priced Seikos for consistency), so much as just losing (or gaining) a bunch of time daily.

Fortunately, most of their watches use pretty common movements, so having a local watchmaker regulate them for you shouldn't cost an arm and a leg nor take a great deal of time. Local watchmaker regulated my "bad" CW for $20, took it in on a Friday, and had it ready for me on Monday. Alternatively, you can just live with the watch losing or gaining a bunch of time every day.

[jeep45238]

I have and have had a few.

They're decent, but they use DHL and DHL sucks.

Otherwise, the only things I don't like about them is that they don't always regulate their watches very well. Not in terms of consistency (so much better than comparably priced Seikos for consistency), so much as just losing (or gaining) a bunch of time daily.

Fortunately, most of their watches use pretty common movements, so having a local watchmaker regulate them for you shouldn't cost an arm and a leg nor take a great deal of time. Local watchmaker regulated my "bad" CW for $20, took it in on a Friday, and had it ready for me on Monday. Alternatively, you can just live with the watch losing or gaining a bunch of time every day.

How much is a bunch of time a day?

[MountainRaven]

How much is a bunch of time a day?

Minus ten seconds a day.

[GJM]

In my experience, watches with in house movements like Omega, Rolex and Tudor are much more accurate than otherwise quality watches like Sinn, that use a commercial movement like the Sellita.

[Crusader]

I have and have had a few.

They're decent, but they use DHL and DHL sucks.

Otherwise, the only things I don't like about them is that they don't always regulate their watches very well. Not in terms of consistency (so much better than comparably priced Seikos for consistency), so much as just losing (or gaining) a bunch of time daily.

Fortunately, most of their watches use pretty common movements, so having a local watchmaker regulate them for you shouldn't cost an arm and a leg nor take a great deal of time. Local watchmaker regulated my "bad" CW for $20, took it in on a Friday, and had it ready for me on Monday. Alternatively, you can just live with the watch losing or gaining a bunch of time every day.

Thank you, guess DHL is their free world wide shipping. If I end up buying one I’ll see if they have a 2-day option, don’t mind paying for better shipping.

The one I’m looking at has the highest grade Sellita and is COSC certified so it ‘should’ be within + - 4 a day. I have a few standard grade SW-200’s and they have been fine so far all run maybe 5-6 seconds fast a day, I can live with that.

I’m usually not into their watches much, but darn they sure know how to make a great looking bronze diver. Great specs too, 41.7 and only 11.5 thick. The brown dial is amazing, but sense I already have a brown dial bronze (Glycine) I’ll most likely go for the blue it’s a looker too.
https://i.postimg.cc/brQ8pmT3/IMG-1229.jpg (https://postimg.cc/RJV2TQ2H)

[vcdgrips]

I have not had a CW. I have known folks who have. Based on the watches I have handled-

They exceed the intersection of quality/value relative to the “Swiss Made” world given their overall fit/finish, incremental bracelet improvements, shift in focus to automatics, transparency re pricing/components, origin story and 5 yr warranty.


Mild rant

Re 10 see a day. While out of spec of “certified” watch ( -4/+7) well within the realm of being on time.

If you have to be so on time that 4 sec lost is ok, but 10 is too much, i would humbly suggest that you should be wearing a quartz watch.

The accuracy expectations of re many folks re automatic watches is simply unrealistic. Everybody says they knows someone or has a watch (often modest automatic with a Japanese movement that is spec at +30/-30 etc.) that is 2 sec a day accurate etc… just like their are folks who say “their” sub 500 1911 runs with Gold Dots fresh from the box with no break in with the mags that came with the gun.

Relative to quartz, automatic watches are simply not very accurate. They simply cannot get there from here. Kind of like a corvette cannot move a 4x8 sheet of drywall and keep it dry when it starts raining- it simply cannot be done.

IMHO-the magic of automatic watches has almost nothing to do with accuracy beyond being on time for an appointment/court/meaningful event etc. It has everything to to with the fit/finish/sound/sweep of the hand/origin story of the brand,model,watch, its place in culture ( pop and/or historical) etc.

YMMV greatly as I wear a hand wound Hamilton Khaki Field in Bronze.

PS-That CW in Bronze and Blue is lovely.

[RevolverRob]

I fell deep down the accuracy rabbit hole a few months ago. Then I read an article that helped me conceptualize it:

There are 86,400 seconds in a single day.

+/- 30 means the watch is 99.96% accurate.

+/- 10 means the watch is 99.98% accurate.

+/- 5 means the watch is 99.99% accurate.

If you need accuracy that is greater than 99.98% - you need a quartz or atomic watch.

If you want a watch with accuracy greater than that, get out your checkbook.

That you can get a watch that is +/- 10 second mechanical movement for well less than a thousand dollars is really an astonishing testament to the watch industry.

Now, I am apparently very lucky. Because I have a sub $500 mechanical watch on my wrist that is averaging about 3 seconds/day loss. Which is, in my view, absolutely awesome accuracy from a Chinese (Seagull) movement. I expected this watch to be a +/- 30sec watch and do not anticipate that the current accuracy will be there forever even with regular maintenance. I check it every morning when I wind the watch. Unless the atomic clock on my phone is wrong, it is pretty much -3 sec a day.

I am also apparently very lucky, because I had one of those sub $500 1911s (Rock Island Armory) that fed JHPs out the box, although I never tried with the shit ACT mags the gun shipped with and instead used GI mags. So, maybe I am just extremely fortunate all around. I also didn't go into that expecting it to work.

[MountainRaven]

I'm not worried about being late because of my watch being 10 seconds slow and, yeah, if super precision were absolutely needed, I would wear my G-shock with MultiBand 6.

I just don't like watches being slow. Fast is fine. Slow bothers me. I would rather a watch be +10 seconds a day than -5.

One of the things I appreciate about Sinn is that they regulate their watches to be fast (and my sample size of one U50 is fast - though with, "self-regulating," by setting it crown-up on its side at night, it actually tracks pretty close to +0/-0).

And in CW's defense, two of the four watches I've bought from them have been fine. One was slower than I'd like. The fourth one just came in yesterday and gained about five or six seconds overnight (I won't be worried about its accuracy until I've given it a month or so of daily wear to break in. And then if I'm not happy, I'll try resting it in different positions overnight. And if that still doesn't make me happy, I have no qualms about spending some more money on the local watchmaker). The whacky thing to me is that the two that were fine have SW200s in them, while the one that was slow has an SW330 movement - which is supposed to be more accurate than the SW200, per Sellita's specs.

[RevolverRob]

Mechanical watches which run fast must be mechanically incorrect.

Why? Because time loss can be attributed to non-mechanical physical factors such as gravity and friction. Time gain cannot be attributed to such factors unless you're in frictionless vacuum. Therefore time gains must be attributed to mechanical issue.

Now, of course, we recognize that time loss can also be driven by mechanical factors and usually is.

But at the end of the day, time gain is absolutely attributed to an increased beat frequency, which on Earth is entirely driven by the mechanics of the watch.

For me, that's the antithesis of desiring accuracy. The goal of mechanical accuracy is to most closely replicate the actual physical condition, not to most closely replicate the accuracy of an artificial condition.

Of course that's irrelevant if your OCD flavor prefers being fast, I totally get it. I set my watch ~60 seconds fast of atomic time every 15-days. Losing 3-5 seconds a day, I will never be late, usually early, at worst right on time. But I have always set my clocks and watches fast starting as a kid, because tardiness is utterly unacceptable.

[Crusader]

I'm not worried about being late because of my watch being 10 seconds slow and, yeah, if super precision were absolutely needed, I would wear my G-shock with MultiBand 6.

I just don't like watches being slow. Fast is fine. Slow bothers me. I would rather a watch be +10 seconds a day than -5.

One of the things I appreciate about Sinn is that they regulate their watches to be fast (and my sample size of one U50 is fast - though with, "self-regulating," by setting it crown-up on its side at night, it actually tracks pretty close to +0/-0).

And in CW's defense, two of the four watches I've bought from them have been fine. One was slower than I'd like. The fourth one just came in yesterday and gained about five or six seconds overnight (I won't be worried about its accuracy until I've given it a month or so of daily wear to break in. And then if I'm not happy, I'll try resting it in different positions overnight. And if that still doesn't make me happy, I have no qualms about spending some more money on the local watchmaker). The whacky thing to me is that the two that were fine have SW200s in them, while the one that was slow has an SW330 movement - which is supposed to be more accurate than the SW200, per Sellita's specs.

Pushed the trigger on the CW, didn’t see any other shipping method offered so the standard free DHL shipping it is. How long is the wait time from order to arrival at your door, approximately. That was something else I didn’t see on their site, they collect duty fees in checkout so that should not cause any delays I hope. Thanks for your insight on CW, I’ll post it up along with my thoughts once it arrives.

[TOTS]

How do you like it? I have been looking at an IWC Spitfire.
You know... mixed feelings at first. I was hesitant to go this route because, while I have wanted a MK XVIII since they first came out, I dont really like the ceramic and only wanted the stainless. I also am very partial to only purchasing watches on a metal bracelet. However, the special edition package was only the polished ceramic/titanium with embossed leather strap configuration. The personalization (engraved name and callsign and stars-and-bars on the caseback, wings, etc) and the fact I didn't have anything like it in the collection put me over the top. After wearing it for a week straight, I am actually liking it the more i wear it. It definitely has its idiosyncrasies, but, they dont really matter to me. The lume is the among the best I have seen, and Im comparing it to a number of Rolexes, Breitlings, etc in our Ready Room. Since absolutely everything is either ceramic or titanium, it's almost weightless on the wrist. Flying with it is a joy; I can very much appreciate how everything on the design was aimed at quickly indicating the time while flying back in the day. The numerals almost exactly mimic the face of our 8-day clocks. The anti-magnetic features are a benefit I feel actually important to me.

IWC are trying to figure out what they need to do to offer value in this market and are making strides. While their catalog is pretty basic (their brand identity is basically a pilot watch company - something they are desparately trying to change) they are going the Chic-Fil-A route and the customer service is top notch. They extended the two year warranty to ten years and advised me to send it in at 8 years for a full servicing regardless of it's performance. While they could not offer free blemished straps (I told the concierge I intended to fly in it and would absolutely destroy the factory strap in short order), they offered to change it out if i preferred a different model once i got the watch. I recieved the watch four months ahead of the timeframe initially advised, and they overnighted it from the Dallas boutique once it arrived from Switzerland.

I very much like the Spitfire model and the marketing campaign they had when it first came out is amazing ( “SILVER SPITFIRE”: RESTORATION OF ICONIC AIRCRAFT COMPLETE (https://press.iwc.com/silver-spitfire-restoration-of-iconic-aircraft-complete/) ). I wish my watch came with the 32111; the 120 hrs power reserve is perfect. I often wish I could go back and be a pilot in the 40s and 50s. IWC pilots watches take me there.

132022

132023
no uv lamp bs; simply walking into the hangar from outside

[MountainRaven]

I forgot to mention that much of why I was bummed by CW#3 being... what it was when I got it, was that it was losing more time than my Seiko 5s. Now, maybe my Seikos 5s being JDM models, maybe Seiko spends a bit extra time in regulating them than the watches intended for sale abroad, maybe the exporters who sold them to me regulated them before shipping them. I don't know, I just know that those Seiko 5s were more accurate than CW#3 and more consistent than my latest US-market Seiko Prospex mechanical.


Pushed the trigger on the CW, didn’t see any other shipping method offered so the standard free DHL shipping it is. How long is the wait time from order to arrival at your door, approximately. That was something else I didn’t see on their site, they collect duty fees in checkout so that should not cause any delays I hope. Thanks for your insight on CW, I’ll post it up along with my thoughts once it arrives.

Time from order to shipping, IME, is usually two business days.

CW#3 was, again, the exception, and took a couple of weeks to ship.

How long it takes after that is in the hands of DHL. But CW's long estimate once the watch ships is usually pretty close (their short estimate is usually the day after it ships which, uh, is pretty optimistic). Assuming DHL doesn't bugger anything up (like they did on CW#2 and #4), I would guess it will be in your hands within a week and a half of the order shipping. Your mileage may vary.

In semi-related news, CW#4 is right about +10 seconds at 24 hours after receiving it. Which I'm perfectly content with, though I expect it will change in the coming weeks.

[perlslacker]

If you have to be so on time that 4 sec lost is ok, but 10 is too much, i would humbly suggest that you should be wearing a quartz watch.


Grand Seiko makes some wonderful quartz watches. The case, dial, indices, are all what you'd expect from Grand Seiko. I took mine to a local watchmaker to get the battery replaced, and he actually spent a few seconds trying to wind it because he thought I was a dumbass who didn't know his watch was mechanical :D

And it's rated to +/- 5 seconds a year. I keep meaning to test that but I always forget when I set it last. I need to set a reminder in my calendar or something.

I do have several mechanical watches, but I don't keep them on winders so I have to wind & set them before I wear them. It's nice to have something that looks professional and is ready to go without fiddling with it.


Mechanical watches which run fast must be mechanically incorrect.

Why? Because time loss can be attributed to non-mechanical physical factors such as gravity and friction. Time gain cannot be attributed to such factors unless you're in frictionless vacuum. Therefore time gains must be attributed to mechanical issue.

Now, of course, we recognize that time loss can also be driven by mechanical factors and usually is.

But at the end of the day, time gain is absolutely attributed to an increased beat frequency, which on Earth is entirely driven by the mechanics of the watch.


This is all fine in theory but a watch that runs fast means that I'm always early. A watch that runs slow means I'm always late.

When I'm getting my kid out the door for school, it's too early for my brain to process anything beyond "watch on wrist says it's 7:10, we need to be out the door by 7:15." I have not yet consumed enough coffee to reason about when I set the watch last and how many seconds per day slow it is.

And if you say "well you should just always leave 5 minutes earlier to be safe," I invite you to wake up this 5yo diva and get her fed, dressed, and out the door in anything resembling an efficient manner. :D

[DMCutter]

Speaking of Grand Seiko, I went to a GS boutique in Soho today at my grandson's urging and tried on a blue GMT high beat. Truly a stunning watch. The blue in the sapphire bezel reflected the light so beautifully. Much dressier than anything else I have. It really made my LHD look so toolish, which I guess is the point of the Tudor. Retail was $7,200, not what I consider walking around money, so I didn't buy it on impulse and I honestly probably never will. The FXD GMT is really more my style even though I prefer bracelets. What I most likely will do is send my beat up U2 in for a full refurb, call it good for my 2 timezone travel needs, and save several thousand dollars.

[HeavyDuty]

Speaking of Grand Seiko, I went to a GS boutique in Soho today at my grandson's urging and tried on a blue GMT high beat. Truly a stunning watch. The blue in the sapphire bezel reflected the light so beautifully. Much dressier than anything else I have. It really made my LHD look so toolish, which I guess is the point of the Tudor. Retail was $7,200, not what I consider walking around money, so I didn't buy it on impulse and I honestly probably never will. The FXD GMT is really more my style even though I prefer bracelets. What I most likely will do is send my beat up U2 in for a full refurb, call it good for my 2 timezone travel needs, and save several thousand dollars.

SBGJ237?

[DMCutter]

SBGJ237?

That's the one. I wasn't even going to look for pre-owned, but that's a great price. Why do you do these things?

[HeavyDuty]

That's the one. I wasn't even going to look for pre-owned, but that's a great price. Why do you do these things?

Just doing my part to keep the world economy on a sound fitting.

Also, because I’m an asshole.

[Crusader]

I’m all set to purchase an Omega Seamaster pro 300 this year, the only reason I haven't yet is I can’t make up my mind on what color I want.

Then I found out that Omega dropped this Aqua Terra last December, with a Turquoise gradient dial, charcoal gray indices and hands. It was love at first sight, now I’m going back and forth on which one I want and no I can’t get both…darn it.

https://i.postimg.cc/Qd6d5j7z/IMG-1235.jpg (https://postimg.cc/PCwHns2b)

I’d go with the 41mm.
https://teddybaldassarre.com/en-int/blogs/watches/omega-seamaster-aqua-terra-turquoise-gradient-dial

[jeep45238]

That's really sharp.

[vcdgrips]

Based on uniqueness of look, I would go with the Aquaterra.

[TOTS]

I’m all set to purchase an Omega Seamaster pro 300 this year, the only reason I haven't yet is I can’t make up my mind on what color I want.

Then I found out that Omega dropped this Aqua Terra last December, with a Turquoise gradient dial, charcoal gray indices and hands. It was love at first sight, now I’m going back and forth on which one I want and no I can’t get both…darn it.

I’d go with the 41mm.
https://teddybaldassarre.com/en-int/blogs/watches/omega-seamaster-aqua-terra-turquoise-gradient-dial
They make a nice Aquaterra. But I absolutely love the polar SM 300s. Goes for the Speedys too.

132309

[Crusader]

They make a nice Aquaterra. But I absolutely love the polar SM 300s. Goes for the Speedys too.

132309

Oh yeah that white dial is fantastic, I’ve always like the Aqua Terra but was never in love/lust with them until I saw that turquoise gradient dial. Now I can’t get it out of my mind.

As far as the SMP goes I’ve narrowed it down to black or blue, but I got a feeling if I walk into the AD and see that Aqua I’ll end up walking out with that instead. Ha Ha.

[TOTS]

Oh yeah that white dial is fantastic, I’ve always like the Aqua Terra but was never in love/lust with them until I saw that turquoise gradient dial. Now I can’t get it out of my mind.

As far as the SMP goes I’ve narrowed it down to black or blue, but I got a feeling if I walk into the AD and see that Aqua I’ll end up walking out with that instead. Ha Ha.
This is for sale in my local watch group for $2K. If it was black or white, I’d probably have it. Except I just got the IWC so im trying to stay married for the rest of the year.

132315

[Crusader]

Don’t know the history on that watch but $2 sounds very very fair, someone will get a great deal.

Totally understand on the wanting to stay married.

[Up1911Fan]

I love the Aqua Terra's, such a great and versatile watch. Between the two I'd choose that over the SM300.
132316

[TOTS]

I love the Aqua Terra's, such a great and versatile watch. Between the two I'd choose that over the SM300.
132316
Like for each watch

[Crusader]

Like for each watch

Exactly miss that feature, especially in this thread. Those are two fantastic watches.

[Chuck Whitlock]

I’m all set to purchase an Omega Seamaster pro 300 this year, the only reason I haven't yet is I can’t make up my mind on what color I want.

Then I found out that Omega dropped this Aqua Terra last December, with a Turquoise gradient dial, charcoal gray indices and hands. It was love at first sight, now I’m going back and forth on which one I want and no I can’t get both…darn it.

https://i.postimg.cc/Qd6d5j7z/IMG-1235.jpg (https://postimg.cc/PCwHns2b)

I’d go with the 41mm.
https://teddybaldassarre.com/en-int/blogs/watches/omega-seamaster-aqua-terra-turquoise-gradient-dial

That is just visually stunning. The hands and indices look like they are just floating.

[Up1911Fan]

132364

[TOTS]

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You still have the Panda, right? Don’t get rid of yours before I get mine!! -Insert Trademarked “Soon”

[Up1911Fan]

You still have the Panda, right? Don’t get rid of yours before I get mine!! -Insert Trademarked “Soon”

Yeah, I have the Panda on the OEM 5 link bracelet.

[jeep45238]

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[scjbash]

I’ve always like the Aqua Terra but was never in love/lust with them until I saw that turquoise gradient dial. Now I can’t get it out of my mind.

As far as the SMP goes I’ve narrowed it down to black or blue, but I got a feeling if I walk into the AD and see that Aqua I’ll end up walking out with that instead. Ha Ha.

I've never even been a fan of the Aqua Terra and I love the new turquoise one. It really is a beautiful watch.

[LittleLebowski]

Too gaudy?

https://www.jomashop.com/mido-ocean-star-39-automatic-watch-m026-907-11-041-00.html

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[Crusader]

The last thing I need is another mid tier/entry Swiss diver. But the color and style of this Mido makes me want one.

https://i.postimg.cc/7LY8c0HH/IMG-1237.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/pXbNvgW1/IMG-1238.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

[Elwin]

The last thing I need is another mid tier/entry Swiss diver. But the color and style of this Mido makes me want one.

https://i.postimg.cc/7LY8c0HH/IMG-1237.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/pXbNvgW1/IMG-1238.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

I like that a lot. I’m biased as olive/navy is one of my favorite color combos, but that to me begs for a good navy NATO or sailcloth strap.

It would be the reverse of what I’m currently doing with my Orient:
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[theJanitor]

Yesterday, we took our son, his friends and a couple of other parents to the Great Big Game Show. It's put on by the same folks who run escape rooms.

In this case, we got paired with some strangers, split up into teams and did game show stuff. One of the challenges was to hit your buzzer at exactly five seconds, then another time at ten, and finally a third time at twenty. I won every round out of the 16 contestants. I looked at every one else and I was the only one with an analog watch. So before the challenge started, I practiced counting to five seconds using my Tudor Pelagos as reference. When it came time for the challenge, I had my internal metronome calibrated, and the win wasn't terribly hard. In fact I was only .02 seconds off of the twenty second mark.:cool:

[TOTS]

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132449

I ordered and installed a deployant clasp originally from the Portugeiser and it instantly changed the feel of the Mk XVIII to a more luxury vibe. That said, I unfortunately don’t love it and feel the Ti pin buckle it came with matches the rest of the appointment better.

I find myself wondering if I could get it DLC coated - that would be perfect.

[Wondering Beard]

Too gaudy?

https://www.jomashop.com/mido-ocean-star-39-automatic-watch-m026-907-11-041-00.html

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Not in my eyes.

[Up1911Fan]

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I ordered and installed a deployant clasp originally from the Portugeiser and it instantly changed the feel of the Mk XVIII to a more luxury vibe. That said, I unfortunately don’t love it and feel the Ti pin buckle it came with matches the rest of the appointment better.

I find myself wondering if I could get it DLC coated - that would be perfect.

I'm surprised the single fold works comfortably with the pin buckle length strap.

[Crusader]

Too gaudy?

https://www.jomashop.com/mido-ocean-star-39-automatic-watch-m026-907-11-041-00.html

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The Batman color combo is not my thing, but otherwise that is a nice looking diver. If you dig the Batman look I say go for it, solid watch.

[TOTS]

I'm surprised the single fold works comfortably with the pin buckle length strap.
You know, it was a (possibly expensive) gamble. I had been reading on the IWC forums that folks switch the long ends around to make it fit more correctly. I guess my wrist is just sized for everything to work out perfectly. I was wanting to get a smooth factory strap as well as the embossed leather one it came with, so I figured I’d check it out as - is first.

I happily feel it fits noticeably more comfortably with the single fold than the pin buckle; wish they had one in Ti or dlc. I wouldn’t be gambling if I had to pay the $700 msrp they ask. The concierge really took care of me. I have nothing but amazing things to say about IWC customer service.

[Up1911Fan]

You know, it was a (possibly expensive) gamble. I had been reading on the IWC forums that folks switch the long ends around to make it fit more correctly. I guess my wrist is just sized for everything to work out perfectly. I was wanting to get a smooth factory strap as well as the embossed leather one it came with, so I figured I’d check it out as - is first.

I happily feel it fits noticeably more comfortably with the single fold than the pin buckle; wish they had one in Ti or dlc. I wouldn’t be gambling if I had to pay the $700 msrp they ask. The concierge really took care of me. I have nothing but amazing things to say about IWC customer service.

You should be able to get the Ti deployant from the Ti BP43. It has the more pilotish buckle as well.

[TOTS]

You should be able to get the Ti deployant from the Ti BP43. It has the more pilotish buckle as well.
I checked on that; brushed stainless and wider band. I needed the 18mm. Cost is the same though.

I actually waited a year to order as there were rumors of the BP being offered in the same edition. But it never came to pass and I still want that Tudor. So I figured I’d save a bit and just get the Mk.

[oregon45]

Some years ago I picked up a used mid-1970s Tudor Mini-Submariner in a trade for a Leupold scope. It was an interesting watch, but at 28mm case diameter it was just too small for me to wear so I sold it off figuring I would eventually save up the then-achievable purchase price of a genuine Rolex Submariner. Here's a picture of it I took while trying to take a picture of the grip profile of my Ruger Bisley .45 Colt that I had fitted with custom Ivory micarta grips:

https://i.imgur.com/DM6vodQ.jpg?1

Years go by, and Rolex prices go through the stratosphere, and my chances of buying a Submariner become ever more remote. So I cast about for a suitable "homage" to give me roughly the look and feel of my old Tudor Mini-Sub, but be at least 40mm in diameter and not cost a fortune. Enter the Squale 1545:

https://i.imgur.com/SGTsObo.jpg

I really like this watch. It is what it appears to be: a well-made homage to the Submariner. It feels good, looks good, runs well and is generally pleasant to wear and view. If you're after the "Submariner" look on a Glock budget, this Squale fits the bill.

[Up1911Fan]

Boys night out.
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[jeep45238]

Boys night out.
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Buzz for the win!

[Totem Polar]

Too gaudy?

https://www.jomashop.com/mido-ocean-star-39-automatic-watch-m026-907-11-041-00.html

132439

Not to my eyes, either—and I bet it looks better in person.

[jeep45238]

Too gaudy?

https://www.jomashop.com/mido-ocean-star-39-automatic-watch-m026-907-11-041-00.html

132439

I'd rather snag a Northport with an extra bracelet.

https://longislandwatch.com/islander-northport-37mm-automatic-watch-with-purple-ripple-dial-isl-291/

https://cdn11.bigcommerce.com/s-uzonwrhn18/images/stencil/1280x1280/products/19509/108475/ISL-291-01__80969.1744640383.jpg?c=1

[Crusader]

I forgot to mention that much of why I was bummed by CW#3 being... what it was when I got it, was that it was losing more time than my Seiko 5s. Now, maybe my Seikos 5s being JDM models, maybe Seiko spends a bit extra time in regulating them than the watches intended for sale abroad, maybe the exporters who sold them to me regulated them before shipping them. I don't know, I just know that those Seiko 5s were more accurate than CW#3 and more consistent than my latest US-market Seiko Prospex mechanical.



Time from order to shipping, IME, is usually two business days.

CW#3 was, again, the exception, and took a couple of weeks to ship.

How long it takes after that is in the hands of DHL. But CW's long estimate once the watch ships is usually pretty close (their short estimate is usually the day after it ships which, uh, is pretty optimistic). Assuming DHL doesn't bugger anything up (like they did on CW#2 and #4), I would guess it will be in your hands within a week and a half of the order shipping. Your mileage may vary.

In semi-related news, CW#4 is right about +10 seconds at 24 hours after receiving it. Which I'm perfectly content with, though I expect it will change in the coming weeks.

Thought I’d give an update on my CW Bronze C60 really happy with the watch, great finishing on the case and dial. Bezel action is very nice and lines up perfectly, really like the distressed leather strap with bronze buckle very comfortable. Been wearing running it for 4 days and it has stayed at a consistent +2 to +4, think it really pays to go with their COSC certified watches. About the only cost cutting feature I can find on it, is the use of mineral glass for the exhibition case back. Front crystal is sapphire, tested it.

Now as far as the DHL delivery…ugh. It reached the DHL facility in my area on the 27th, sent me an email that it would be delivered on the 29th between 1200 and 1530 hours. I was home and available the entire time, at 1421 I get another email from them saying I was not home and will have to reschedule, yeah nobody came to my door and no DHL truck pulled up in front of my house. Rescheduled for the 2nd no time frame was given, they also sent me three emails requesting that I approve delivery without a signature. No freaking way was I gonna do that. I didn’t trust them to actually deliver it, so I drove the 25 miles to their facility and picked it up myself.

DHL aside, really impressed with the packaging, quality and attention to detail of CW.
https://i.postimg.cc/1RvBKNdc/IMG-9998.jpg (https://postimg.cc/LhZj9h2n)
https://i.postimg.cc/J0YQ79Xd/IMG-0001.jpg (https://postimg.cc/K3LTJpJn)

[Up1911Fan]

Panda today.
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[Wes Peart]

Too gaudy?

https://www.jomashop.com/mido-ocean-star-39-automatic-watch-m026-907-11-041-00.html

132439

If you're looking for more understated crown guard less Sub vibes, this Glycine Combat Sub 39 would be hard to resist.

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[Crusader]

Rocking the Avenger 43 today.

https://i.postimg.cc/htgp1KdN/IMG-0057.jpg (https://postimg.cc/ppGf2bkB)

[Wondering Beard]

Rocking the Avenger 43 today.

https://i.postimg.cc/htgp1KdN/IMG-0057.jpg (https://postimg.cc/ppGf2bkB)

I always thought you were a sketchy dude ;-).

[Crusader]

I always thought you were a sketchy dude ;-).

Oh yeah:cool:

[TOTS]

Panda today.
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I just smashed where the like button was.

[LittleLebowski]

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[Crusader]

Always liked that particular Mido, for some reason marketing most likely Mido isn’t that popular stateside. But in Asia and South America very popular.

[MountainRaven]

Thought I’d give an update on my CW Bronze C60 really happy with the watch, great finishing on the case and dial. Bezel action is very nice and lines up perfectly, really like the distressed leather strap with bronze buckle very comfortable. Been wearing running it for 4 days and it has stayed at a consistent +2 to +4, think it really pays to go with their COSC certified watches. About the only cost cutting feature I can find on it, is the use of mineral glass for the exhibition case back. Front crystal is sapphire, tested it.

Now as far as the DHL delivery…ugh. It reached the DHL facility in my area on the 27th, sent me an email that it would be delivered on the 29th between 1200 and 1530 hours. I was home and available the entire time, at 1421 I get another email from them saying I was not home and will have to reschedule, yeah nobody came to my door and no DHL truck pulled up in front of my house. Rescheduled for the 2nd no time frame was given, they also sent me three emails requesting that I approve delivery without a signature. No freaking way was I gonna do that. I didn’t trust them to actually deliver it, so I drove the 25 miles to their facility and picked it up myself.

DHL aside, really impressed with the packaging, quality and attention to detail of CW.
https://i.postimg.cc/1RvBKNdc/IMG-9998.jpg (https://postimg.cc/LhZj9h2n)
https://i.postimg.cc/J0YQ79Xd/IMG-0001.jpg (https://postimg.cc/K3LTJpJn)

Glad you like it. And, yeah, DHL is a nightmare.

Anyway, CW#4 is running +8-9 seconds fast per day. Which I'm perfectly happy with, between it being not-slow and being consistent. Basically just stop it once a week for about a minute and then back into service.

Only minor complaint is that when I strapped it on on Monday, it had stopped about five minutes before I put it on. Which is not the fault of the watch. The moral of the story is to wear my Garmin less on the weekend and CW#4 more.

[jeep45238]

132865

[Up1911Fan]

BB Pro.
132869

[jeep45238]

SRPF77
132995

[GJM]

My wife let me wear her Seiko to the match today, while she sported a G-Shock.

133006

[helothar]

Gotta imagine someone here is going to jump on the Walther x Sinn collab?

https://cdn-fastly.thefirearmblog.com/media/2025/04/22/05133/potd-the-walther-pdp-steel-frame-x-sinn-limited-edition-set.jpg?size=720x845&nocrop=1
https://cdn-fastly.thefirearmblog.com/media/2025/04/22/05135/potd-the-walther-pdp-steel-frame-x-sinn-limited-edition-set.jpg?size=720x845&nocrop=1

source (https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/potd-the-walther-pdp-steel-frame-x-sinn-limited-edition-set-44820541)

[Spartan1980]

Gotta imagine someone here is going to jump on the Walther x Sinn collab?


source (https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/potd-the-walther-pdp-steel-frame-x-sinn-limited-edition-set-44820541)

Gotta give it to them, that's a great pairing!

[Crusader]

Around 6 weeks ago I was given a free watch, didn’t really think much about it another Chinese homage watch. Although I couldn’t figure out what it was a homage of. A couple weeks ago I decided to take it out of the box, size the bracelet and see how it ran. Great specs 40mm case, 12.5 thick and 48 lug to lug. Has a sapphire crystal and a NH35, screw down back plate(with a nice sailboat embossed on it) screw down crown and some of the best lume I’ve ever seen on a Chinese watch. Besides the hands and indices, the bezel and minutes track are also lumed. The bracelet while nothing special is also pretty nice and very comfortable, actually the whole watch is very comfortable on the wrist. Was also very surprised to find the watch ran at a -2 to +4 for the week duration I wore it and kept it running. Just a very comfortable smooth watch, from the setting of the time date to the smooth screw in crown to the tight no back play bezel. Just super impressed with this low cost auto watch, it will go into my beater rotation. Oh and I think I may have figured out what it is a homage to…Zodiac?

https://i.postimg.cc/RZJyYFv3/IMG-9978.jpg (https://postimg.cc/0zxVM9Mx)

[Up1911Fan]

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[TOTS]

Gotta imagine someone here is going to jump on the Walther x Sinn collab?

source (https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/potd-the-walther-pdp-steel-frame-x-sinn-limited-edition-set-44820541)

Thats a nice “IWC” chrono ! (Wink)

[HeavyDuty]

This is sexy.

https://www.seikowatches.com/us-en/products/prospex/ssc807j1

[Up1911Fan]

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