At the Windup Watch Fair this past year in NYC the Monta Triumph would have been the watch I would’ve walked away with out of all the others. The quality of their case finishings are absolutely top notch. In the mix the new GMT one they had also looked awesome. And, I got to hold and try on this watch and speak with the designer. I got the sense he really thinks highly of the Rolex submariner so much so he pulled his out for me to compare with the new Ocean King. I wasn’t entirely sure of his strategy but I came away with a real appreciation of how amazing the sub is. The bezel on his sub was so good...didn’t know they could be that good...butta. The Ocean King was nice and had all the markings of Monta quality but you know it just fell flat. It almost seems like this version is an homage but for copyright issues they need to change a few things...a step back in innovation...or I should say creativity. Lol-your tone in this video says it all.
Owning a bunch of watches throughout the years, I have recently made a discovery. By keeping the bracelet a bit shorter on the 6 o clock side, it sits so much better on the wrist. Never thought about this before 🙈🙈 !
This is partially the reason why I wear leather straps "backwards". Having the buckle at 6 not only makes the watch easier to put on, and tuck through the keepers, but fits better on the wrist.
I always adjust the 6 o'clock side first to get the end of the clasp to sit exactly where I want it, and only then start taking links out of the other side.
Funny I used to do this in my first few years of collecting. I used to wear watches looser and I agree in that case it definitely helps the watch head from falling down as far on the dorsal side. I still definitely tend towards a shorter 6 o clock but now I favor balancing it more centrally. Basically whatever makes the clasp sit level underneath the wrist.
In my view there's enough different about this compared to the sub, for it to not warrant the "sub homage" moniker. It's definitely "submariner-like" but is by no means a sub homage. I really do like the older OceanKing better, with the slightly thinner bezel, and the slightly more elegant case shape, the polished chamfer on the lugs next to the end links, and with the dial indices recessed into the minute track. I actually had my heart set on the new OceanKing before release and was keyed up to get one, but when I saw it I felt a little flat. I ended up getting a Ginault Ocean-Rover II. I though if I'm going to get something that sub-like, I might as well get Ginault's amazing submariner fantasy homage. With the money I saved from getting the Ginault, I was then able to get a Henry Archer Akva meteorite dial! I'm very happy with the 1-2 punch of the Ocean-Rover and Akva rather than one Ocean-King.
Skyquest owner here :: You need to live with a Monta to realize how much it punches above its weight. It's moved into the forever part of my collection, alongside GS's and Omegas.
In twelve years in the hobby, I have had several watches, from Tissot to Rolex. My Oceanking v3 is definitely very close to Rolex and Tudor and much superior to Longines and Oris. Having access to this level of quality for the price is simply incredible.
One of the biggest style changes I miss from version 2 was the rehaut insert/track. Is that what you call it? It made the dial feel more finished and visually appealing to me.
personally to me,.... This is the nicest ocean king yet.. I like how it captures that sub vibe without being a complete copy.. Potentially my first Monta will be this v3
I have always been impressed with the incredible quality of Monta but I wasn't sure about the design. This v3 is much more to my taste and I do not regret my purchase.
Monta is simply my favorite brand. I own the new mint green Noble and a gray Triumph. I find myself wearing them almost daily over my Oris, Tudor, Tag, and others. I didn't fully understand the hype until I tried one on, and...wow.
I would. The bracelet on the BB 58 is ridiculous. Faux rivets, no half links and only three holes on the clasp for adjustment. BB 58 owners buy Forstner bracelets to get a proper fit. Monta watches are so comfortable on the wrist. The bracelets have half-links and on the fly micro adjust. You really have to hold one to see what I mean. I recently bought a Longines Hydroconquest GMT, which I also think is a better watch than the BB 58.
I owned a pair of Monta’s previously and was able to visit their headquarters and chat with Michael just before COVID. They are definitely very well built and there is a passion behind the company. That being said I definitely agree with the sentiment though that this generation is great, but lacks a lot of the character of the previous gen, especially the waterfall 12 o’clock index. The previous gen had its own design. This seems like they said make a Submariner without it being a submariner
Yeah it's like they got in the board room and said this - "OK sales are OK but not great. We need to boost numbers. Kevin - what's the most popular watch on the planet? Ah it's the Rolex Submariner. OK Geoff - go change the OceanKing to be as close to the submariner as possible without being an obvious clone. Kevin - you work with Geoff on the design and then let's get this thing done. Christmas bonuses to both of you if we hit our 24H2 targets. Kevin and Geoff - OK boss!"
Agreed. I think if I had this and any of my watch geek friends (I have up to 3) saw it from across the room, they wouldn’t ask “what watch is that?” they would instead ask “is that a Submariner?” It’s the difference between being in a “category” of watch vs being very like a specific watch. For example, I like dive watches, but I can’t afford a Submariner. I prefer my Seiko SPB381 to this Monta because the Seiko is a chunky dive watch that is uniquely its own. If I got the Monta, I think I’d always view it as the “watch I got instead of a Submariner”.
the only watch channel where I don't merely seek through the video timeline for wrist shots and watch shots, but I actually watch it entirely for all the satirical comedy- freaking hilarious!
Sad to see so many big brand homage watches make youtube video lists as "alternatives" and not rip offs. The Monta Oceanking looks like the sub, yes. But so do many other divers from micros to independents. Not sure why Monta gets picked on specifically. And not necessarily from the content in this video, but it seems the criticism in the comments of Monta reviews lately is lazy and repetitive. If the only fault of the watch is "it looks like a sub," it sounds like a damn good watch to me. The dial and bezel proportions are much better imo on this one. Did i love the previous indicies? Yes. But these are far more legible and sporty, which is what Monta set out to do, seperate the dressy models from the sporty models in their catalog. Im ranting at this point but i think this really punches above its weight getting close to Longines and Tudor territory. I wouldnt compare it to anything cheaper.
I was impressed with Monta watches when I tried them on at Windup Chicago, and spoke to the owners. The Triumph particularly still occupies space in my mind, rent free. I am seriously considering getting one. That being said, I thought the character of the older models were more interesting in the previous Ocean King. The lack of a fully lumed bezel is a disappointment as well. I do appreciate some of the refinements though. Maybe we can get an Ocean King 3.1 with a bit added back? I don't mind the Rolex "vibe" at all. Frankly, many more brands have more than that vibe with their designs. Monta gets the little things right that most of the other brands don't even think about. Someone mentioned Christopher Ward as a better value. They're certainly cheaper, but they're typically using lower end SW200-1 movements in their divers, and the designs somehow leave me flat. More of a "look at our great specs at our great price" watch than a great watch. They are certainly well built and feel solid on wrist. They do have some very alluring designs in the brand, just not as much in their divers, for me. I am definitely in the camp of a fan that's tried the watches on, and also one that wants to see the brand succeed.
The truth is that any company that releases a black diver is faced with people claiming that it is a homage and a copy of a Submariner. I even had someone in a forum claim my Sinn 104 was a Sub homage. It gets a bit tiresome TBH. Looking objectively at this it is a great watch, with a very clean design, nice specs, and a price that is fair for an entry level level luxury watch. Also, i feel like a lot of people who are so "disappointed" (cringe) should try it on their wrist and come back with an update. I think a lot will be pleasantly surprised.
You kinda sold me on Monta and convinced me to get a Noble with your older video, even though my wrist is located in Europe and not in the great US of A. I've been loving it ever since, so don't sell yourself short, those watch clicker folk got nothing on you.
Broham. I have probably watched this watch video at least one million times (yer-welcuhm) I don’t own a Monta watch. But I will one day! Thank you for the content your watch videos are so casual and informative.
I don't think this looks like a sub other than the bezel. Lots of watches look like subs but this is not one of them. The quality is there. It has classic styling. It's a winner to me.
This watch is what the submariner would be if the submariner was perfect. How bout those sword hands and that 6 o’clock date window without cyclops. Well done!
Someone in the Monta facebook group said they didnt copy the sub, they fixed it, and damn thats bold but could have some truth depending on your design taste! That 6 o clock date is perfect imo
I have to agree. I don't like Mercedes hands, and don't like magnifier on a Sub. This is much closer to my ideal watch. And the quality of every Monta is top class.
I've been waiting for this review from you! Please, Share your thoughts on comparison between the Monta Oceanking vs Formex Reef? Do you think they're on the category (microbrand Diver)? I've been looking foward to add one of these to my collection in a future. Just an observation, everything looks fantastic on your 7-inch wrist! Greetings from Brazil!
If they had this watch in the ‘Hulk’ colorway, a lumed bezel and love the stayalized version (V2) more and I would instant buy one!!! Hope it will ever come and that they can ship from Europe!
Thank you for being maybe the first reviewer in the history of TH-cam to mention fully articulating bracelet links. My most comfortable watches have these. I am pretty sure my Submariner does not. Keep making videos like these. Please clap.
What is the connection between full articulation and wrist comfort? Links don't fold back and when worn, the full articulation is only noticeable when you take off the watch.
@@SamuraiJackson my guess is each link would technically have two points of articulation rather than one so if the links appear to be the same length on two bracelets the one with full articulation would have twice as many independent areas of articulation. I would assume that is more comfortable because the massive links in my Seiko MM300 are not comfortable and that would be at the extreme opposite. I can say that watch (mm300) feels way better on a jubilee style bracelet which accomplishes the same thing simply by using shorter links.
as someone who just heard of this brand, this watch checks a lot of boxes for me. I think the "sub copy" comments are a bit much, as there are many stylistic differences between this watch and that (font, color, hand style, date placement etc...). personally i cant bring myself to overpay for a rolex, so this is very likely the luxury diver ill be buying in the near future. i do think a partially lumed bezel would be very sweet.
So, I got my Submariner-like fix over a year ago with a Ginault Silent Service (with cyclops nonetheless). Now don’t be hating on me. Most of us are aware of their checkered history. But I didn’t care. I checked out the Monta, but I wanted a touch of red on the second hand, but alas. The Ginault looks great, feels like a luxury watch, keeps COS time, cost half as much as the Monta at the time, and looks at a distance like something some thief might want to steal, so ironically I’m finding I don’t wear this relatively cheap watch in places where I might be targeted. Strange. Oh, and the bezel is lumed too
To be honest I like a lot in this watch. However I would like to see some more colour variations (dial/bezel). A summer combination especially of white dial and orange bezel, is something I would like to see.
Trying to find a reason to justify that price. No quick release spring bars on the bracelet is wild, when i have a $400 dive watch that does. Also, some steel hardening on here may help get the justification up there but honestly? There are SO MANY divers out there that are 1/3 of the price and just as nice/functional.
I love this Channel, it’s content and the levity you bring to watch collecting 😀 That being said, this model of Monta gives the appearance of a Cheap, Chinese replica made to look like a Submariner No date. The main reason someone would buy this is because they either can’t afford the real thing(Rolex) or are misinformed.
I feel that there’s a sort of uncanny valley between “homage” and “in the style of” and this watch sits in it. I really like the watch, and it’s not an homage, as many things are different but it feels almost too close to Submariner, but/and as I said before I like it…. And so it goes around and around. I think picking it up would, as you said, be the requirement to making a decision!
Only people that dont know watches ask if its a rolex. Actually had a really nice convo with a sub owner after he noticed it. Put him onto the Monta brand and he almost bought the Noble right there lmao
This is a myth spread around the comments section of TH-cam. No one in the real world goes around complementing people for wearing a Rolex, along with the assumption that if someone did say that it should somehow make you feel worthless for not actually owning a Rolex. If that's the case your money would be better spent on a therapist to sort out issues of self-esteem than on a watch.
@BrianCassidy-hb9pg 💯💯 ive had people ask me if i was wearing a Rolex but it turned into a cool conversation about a Saint Louis based company making Swiss watches. No one cares what you're wearing😂
I kinda have to agree with others. The initial designs were more original. This is like a homage to a sub, but a few things were changed to not be a straight up clomage. And are people that bought the V1 and V2 going to be able to get replacement parts for this discontinued designs? Probably not.
Great review. I think they've gone from a fairly original design to a homage, which is a shame. Somewhere between the two would be nice. Perhaps they did it to get more Rolex sales at a cheaper cost? Would love to own or handle one regardless
If this is the 3rd generation of the Oceanking, what generation of the Noble is currently available? Thinking about pulling the trigger on that watch, which feels less like a Rolex homage, and more like it's own thing.
I believe the Noble is still first gen. However, if you order a Noble now you will get the new bracelet. The blue, anthracite and white Nobles have the older SW 300 movement with a 42 hour power reserve. I believe that once these watches are sold the new Nobles will have the newer movements with a 56 hour power reserve. The limited edition mint Noble has the upgraded movement with a 56 hour power reserve. However, there are only a few on these watches left for sale. 6:52
If you're going to spend $2,500 on a Submariner homage...consider saving up for a Submariner. Excellent quality used options from the past 20-30 model years can be had for $10K. That's a steep sum for a watch, but so is $2,500. Most people will be happier with the genuine issue than a quality homage. "But the bracelet is amazing!" I agree! And you can get an equally excellent bracelet, with impressive finishing and with excellent OTF microadjust from Traska or Jack Mason or a handful of other brands that do dive watches for well under a grand. The proposition this watch is putting forward is tough to reckon, but we're all free to do what we want. I won't begrudge another from buying this and loving it.
@@odds-and-sods Or spend even less on a bunch of comparable options under $1k. I'd hate the Ginault on my wrist knowing what it's trying to be, but that's just my opinion.
I am so rooting for monta. I really want them to succeed. However, this fell so flat on me. I don't like what they have been pumping out as of late, as it seems they are doing that horrid thing all companies go through: copying Rolex. Monta had things that made it quirky. That were so signature Monta. 60 click bezel, but they made it so high quality you couldn't help but love it. 304 Meter rating over 300. Why 304? Cause Monta. For the Skyquest, why raise the GMT hand over the indices that way? Cause Monta. Now, it's just another Rolex homage, and for me, Monta is in timeout.
I have a Monta Noble and Triumph. These are high quality watches and I love them. But for some reason the Ocean King did not call to me. I just bought a Longines Hydroconquest GMT from an AD at a price cheaper than the Ocean King.
You can drop off the Ocean King to your local watchmaker for a service and pick it back up in a week. The Longines? Not quite... And what you saved initially, you will spend (and more) come service time. Not saying you bought a bad watch, just adding something to consider.
I understand. But the price to service a Longines watch is not terrible. I have several micro brand watches and wanted a watch with more history. The fact that I was able to purchase a Hydroconquest GMT from an AD with a five year warranty for $150 less than the Ocean King was just a bonus.
They did the same thing between Skyquest gen 1 and 2. Gen 2 may look cleaner, but it lacks character. It’s too generic now. I’m glad I snagged a Gen 1 gilt! Debating getting their new bracelet for it, $600!! 🤦♂️🤦♂️
I have both. Monta : better quality and more comfortable. Longines : better movement and more pedigree. Both are strongly inspired by the most iconic watch ever 😉
I kinda agree. Monta has lost some of its original design cues in favor of a more standard (or generic) dive style which may be heavily Rolex derived. I feel this may show even more in their Skyquest GMT redesign... I much preferred the original design with the bent GMT hand and less bold numerals on the bezel. I think one of their last original Monta-esque design was the Triumph..but, didn't, or aren't they going to, end production on the Triumph? No doubt this OK3 is solid built and a quality timepiece. I just wished they kept their original design concepts rather than integrating in more Rolex looking design cues.
A Gump and a Caddyshack ref in one vid. More than this ‘meh’ watch deserves. That said, I’ve never held one, so there’s that. Also, compressed air is your friend for that dust.
The real question with all these Heisenberg remarks is how is your cat doing? Great watch, personally I prefer the Nobel and they preferred Heisenberg in 1932.
I'm late to this but it's a very nice watch which by all accounts, is very well made and comfortable to wear however, their pricing strategy is far too high. I don't live in the U.S. and so by the time you convert and allow for import and shipping, you're moving into a very different market and options. It's asking too much for a potential customer via online photos and reviews only.
It’s fantastic. The only problem is what everybody is going to say, however, it is almost as good apart from that movement which is still a fantastic movement. in terms of design, branding everything else, let’s be honest it’s pretty much there because a lot of people who know about watches will say ultimately Rolex makes steel sports watches and they are wildly wildly overpriced.
I can solve Monta's problem. 1) lose the minute markers, the hour markers are too pretty to be overrun with minute markers. 2) Change the hand set. Someone at Monta has got to be creative enough to come up with a unique set. 3) keep everything else. It's perfect.
this looks quite generic, a step back compared to the previous generation imo. the older ones had much more character, this one just looks like every other sub homage
This watch is perfeft for me except 2 things. the large edge of the bezel they should make the bezel thinner imo, and i don't like monta crowns, the "onion" shape is just not for me, i like normal crowns like rolex or tudor.. everything else is just spot on.
@@maitrehg Well i believe that th shape of the crown might provide a better grip, im not saying it's bad function wise, i just don't like the way it looks
Not a fan of the direction they’re heading. Seems to be moving more towards Rolex homages and away from original, interesting designs. I purchased a Pepsi Skyquest from them about a year ago and the first one they sent had a malfunctioning crown that wouldn’t push back into the case after time setting. I sent it back and they sent me a replacement that had ridiculous rotor noise and feel and ran at over +20 seconds a day. It’s a shame because I really enjoyed a the Triumph that I owned for a few years and was excited to see where they took the brand next. Sadly, it was backwards instead of forwards.
Good option for the price of 2.5k, really nothing in the way of a submariner look that will also have that kind of finish. The bigger, 43mm, Tag Heuer Aquaracer comes to mind and the even bigger, well built Ball engineer may also be worth considering. I would probably try to save and find a used Omega seamaster 300 in the 3.5-4k range, but that shows you what a value Monta is bringing if its competing with watches double in price.
Calling a spade a spade, it's a Sub homage. I like Monta, and felt they had their own style language but this V3 is in the wrong direction. V2 was great, its own style, and very much not an homage to the crown. But too many people will ask if this is a Rolex.
![Monta - Oceanking [v3] Independant Swiss Made Luxury Dive Watch, Still Worth it in 2024?](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/BRAhA2oFkVs/mqdefault.jpg)
At the Windup Watch Fair this past year in NYC the Monta Triumph would have been the watch I would’ve walked away with out of all the others. The quality of their case finishings are absolutely top notch. In the mix the new GMT one they had also looked awesome. And, I got to hold and try on this watch and speak with the designer. I got the sense he really thinks highly of the Rolex submariner so much so he pulled his out for me to compare with the new Ocean King. I wasn’t entirely sure of his strategy but I came away with a real appreciation of how amazing the sub is. The bezel on his sub was so good...didn’t know they could be that good...butta. The Ocean King was nice and had all the markings of Monta quality but you know it just fell flat. It almost seems like this version is an homage but for copyright issues they need to change a few things...a step back in innovation...or I should say creativity. Lol-your tone in this video says it all.
Huge Monta fan, I'm ok with this update, I hope the company succeeds.
To me, looks way better now. And always the same incredible quality.
Owning a bunch of watches throughout the years, I have recently made a discovery. By keeping the bracelet a bit shorter on the 6 o clock side, it sits so much better on the wrist. Never thought about this before 🙈🙈 !
This is partially the reason why I wear leather straps "backwards". Having the buckle at 6 not only makes the watch easier to put on, and tuck through the keepers, but fits better on the wrist.
I always adjust the 6 o'clock side first to get the end of the clasp to sit exactly where I want it, and only then start taking links out of the other side.
Funny I used to do this in my first few years of collecting. I used to wear watches looser and I agree in that case it definitely helps the watch head from falling down as far on the dorsal side. I still definitely tend towards a shorter 6 o clock but now I favor balancing it more centrally. Basically whatever makes the clasp sit level underneath the wrist.
its ironic because this watch is rarer than a sub :) and quality is soooo good, great job monta.
In my view there's enough different about this compared to the sub, for it to not warrant the "sub homage" moniker. It's definitely "submariner-like" but is by no means a sub homage. I really do like the older OceanKing better, with the slightly thinner bezel, and the slightly more elegant case shape, the polished chamfer on the lugs next to the end links, and with the dial indices recessed into the minute track.
I actually had my heart set on the new OceanKing before release and was keyed up to get one, but when I saw it I felt a little flat. I ended up getting a Ginault Ocean-Rover II. I though if I'm going to get something that sub-like, I might as well get Ginault's amazing submariner fantasy homage. With the money I saved from getting the Ginault, I was then able to get a Henry Archer Akva meteorite dial! I'm very happy with the 1-2 punch of the Ocean-Rover and Akva rather than one Ocean-King.
Skyquest owner here :: You need to live with a Monta to realize how much it punches above its weight. It's moved into the forever part of my collection, alongside GS's and Omegas.
In twelve years in the hobby, I have had several watches, from Tissot to Rolex. My Oceanking v3 is definitely very close to Rolex and Tudor and much superior to Longines and Oris. Having access to this level of quality for the price is simply incredible.
@@maitrehg I think you just made me purchase one.
Loved the wrist shots while playing guitar, Keep it up!
I’m just rockin’ in the free world
One of the biggest style changes I miss from version 2 was the rehaut insert/track. Is that what you call it? It made the dial feel more finished and visually appealing to me.
Yeah, the rehaut cutouts were cool.
The same with Skyquest changes. Gen 2 lost all that! 🤦♂️
personally to me,.... This is the nicest ocean king yet.. I like how it captures that sub vibe without being a complete copy.. Potentially my first Monta will be this v3
Agree, this is a really good offering. I like a date, but hate the magnifier on a sub. This much better matches what I want than a sub does.
I have always been impressed with the incredible quality of Monta but I wasn't sure about the design. This v3 is much more to my taste and I do not regret my purchase.
Agreed!
Great video! I prefer the older models. This is just too close to Rolex.
Monta is simply my favorite brand. I own the new mint green Noble and a gray Triumph. I find myself wearing them almost daily over my Oris, Tudor, Tag, and others. I didn't fully understand the hype until I tried one on, and...wow.
I also have a mint Noble and silver Triumph. Both great watches.
Would you choose the monta over a Tudor Bb58?
I would. The bracelet on the BB 58 is ridiculous. Faux rivets, no half links and only three holes on the clasp for adjustment. BB 58 owners buy Forstner bracelets to get a proper fit. Monta watches are so comfortable on the wrist. The bracelets have half-links and on the fly micro adjust. You really have to hold one to see what I mean. I recently bought a Longines Hydroconquest GMT, which I also think is a better watch than the BB 58.
My Oceanking v3 has more wrist time than my Tudor and Rolex. Sublime quality and incomparable comfort.
@@rukkit8705Same quality but Monta hands down for comfort.
I would like this watch but in London, I’d be mugged but then subsequently beat up for wasting the muggers time with a Subby look-alike
Awesome Heisenberg references. Right up my alley. Love the vids!
I owned a pair of Monta’s previously and was able to visit their headquarters and chat with Michael just before COVID. They are definitely very well built and there is a passion behind the company. That being said I definitely agree with the sentiment though that this generation is great, but lacks a lot of the character of the previous gen, especially the waterfall 12 o’clock index. The previous gen had its own design. This seems like they said make a Submariner without it being a submariner
Yeah it's like they got in the board room and said this -
"OK sales are OK but not great. We need to boost numbers. Kevin - what's the most popular watch on the planet?
Ah it's the Rolex Submariner.
OK Geoff - go change the OceanKing to be as close to the submariner as possible without being an obvious clone. Kevin - you work with Geoff on the design and then let's get this thing done. Christmas bonuses to both of you if we hit our 24H2 targets.
Kevin and Geoff - OK boss!"
Agreed. I think if I had this and any of my watch geek friends (I have up to 3) saw it from across the room, they wouldn’t ask “what watch is that?” they would instead ask “is that a Submariner?”
It’s the difference between being in a “category” of watch vs being very like a specific watch. For example, I like dive watches, but I can’t afford a Submariner. I prefer my Seiko SPB381 to this Monta because the Seiko is a chunky dive watch that is uniquely its own. If I got the Monta, I think I’d always view it as the “watch I got instead of a Submariner”.
An antistatic cloth + brush for the set and humidifier in your studio could help with dust.
the only watch channel where I don't merely seek through the video timeline for wrist shots and watch shots, but I actually watch it entirely for all the satirical comedy- freaking hilarious!
Sad to see so many big brand homage watches make youtube video lists as "alternatives" and not rip offs. The Monta Oceanking looks like the sub, yes. But so do many other divers from micros to independents. Not sure why Monta gets picked on specifically. And not necessarily from the content in this video, but it seems the criticism in the comments of Monta reviews lately is lazy and repetitive. If the only fault of the watch is "it looks like a sub," it sounds like a damn good watch to me. The dial and bezel proportions are much better imo on this one. Did i love the previous indicies? Yes. But these are far more legible and sporty, which is what Monta set out to do, seperate the dressy models from the sporty models in their catalog. Im ranting at this point but i think this really punches above its weight getting close to Longines and Tudor territory. I wouldnt compare it to anything cheaper.
Thanks for the excellent review. Your humor is fantastic! Looking forward to more of your videos.
The last time I was this early my girlfriend was upset.
I was stuck in traffic and came late, did he mention his wrist size yet?
Can confirm, I was under the bed
I was impressed with Monta watches when I tried them on at Windup Chicago, and spoke to the owners. The Triumph particularly still occupies space in my mind, rent free. I am seriously considering getting one. That being said, I thought the character of the older models were more interesting in the previous Ocean King. The lack of a fully lumed bezel is a disappointment as well. I do appreciate some of the refinements though. Maybe we can get an Ocean King 3.1 with a bit added back? I don't mind the Rolex "vibe" at all. Frankly, many more brands have more than that vibe with their designs. Monta gets the little things right that most of the other brands don't even think about. Someone mentioned Christopher Ward as a better value. They're certainly cheaper, but they're typically using lower end SW200-1 movements in their divers, and the designs somehow leave me flat. More of a "look at our great specs at our great price" watch than a great watch. They are certainly well built and feel solid on wrist. They do have some very alluring designs in the brand, just not as much in their divers, for me. I am definitely in the camp of a fan that's tried the watches on, and also one that wants to see the brand succeed.
Definitely agree. It’s looking more like a…watch…but the quality really is outstanding.
So it didn’t always look like a SUBMARINER??? Being more homage is definitely a bad upgrade. 😢
Gorgeous. I'm new in the watch gang glad I found this channel, such a fun way to get to know what the industry has to offer!
Another sub homage? You can have good Chinese for $300 , or even Swiss homage by Steinhart for $630.
Can't see the point in this watch
In fact, it's quite a deal for that level of quality.
That’s beautiful, I like the quality of Monta.
Do you think this is too big for a 6.5 inch wrist? They're return policy requires a $150 stocking fee so want to make sure before purchase. Thank you!
I own this watch with the same sized wrist, and it works.
The case shape/profile looks a lot like a Submariner, and I’m not just saying that because it’s a diver. I do like the dial design and hands though.
Like the look of this. Definitely very clean. Would be nice if you added a soundbite of the bezel action fwiw. Keep up the great content.
What a beautiful watch
The truth is that any company that releases a black diver is faced with people claiming that it is a homage and a copy of a Submariner. I even had someone in a forum claim my Sinn 104 was a Sub homage. It gets a bit tiresome TBH.
Looking objectively at this it is a great watch, with a very clean design, nice specs, and a price that is fair for an entry level level luxury watch.
Also, i feel like a lot of people who are so "disappointed" (cringe) should try it on their wrist and come back with an update. I think a lot will be pleasantly surprised.
So true 👍
You kinda sold me on Monta and convinced me to get a Noble with your older video, even though my wrist is located in Europe and not in the great US of A. I've been loving it ever since, so don't sell yourself short, those watch clicker folk got nothing on you.
Broham. I have probably watched this watch video at least one million times (yer-welcuhm) I don’t own a Monta watch. But I will one day! Thank you for the content your watch videos are so casual and informative.
I don't think this looks like a sub other than the bezel. Lots of watches look like subs but this is not one of them. The quality is there. It has classic styling. It's a winner to me.
I cant wait to buy a Monta. Ocean King or Noble
You will not regret it.
This watch is what the submariner would be if the submariner was perfect. How bout those sword hands and that 6 o’clock date window without cyclops. Well done!
Someone in the Monta facebook group said they didnt copy the sub, they fixed it, and damn thats bold but could have some truth depending on your design taste! That 6 o clock date is perfect imo
I have to agree. I don't like Mercedes hands, and don't like magnifier on a Sub. This is much closer to my ideal watch. And the quality of every Monta is top class.
@@marcusedcofficialSo true !
@@BrianCassidy-hb9pgQuality and comfort are top notch.
I've been waiting for this review from you!
Please, Share your thoughts on comparison between the Monta Oceanking vs Formex Reef? Do you think they're on the category (microbrand Diver)?
I've been looking foward to add one of these to my collection in a future.
Just an observation, everything looks fantastic on your 7-inch wrist!
Greetings from Brazil!
I really wanna try these watches. I thought the best microbrand bracelet was the Orion bracelets, but I gotta try these..
They really are fantastic, now looks even better than they chopped off that point and increased the micro adjust
If they had this watch in the ‘Hulk’ colorway, a lumed bezel and love the stayalized version (V2) more and I would instant buy one!!! Hope it will ever come and that they can ship from Europe!
Is the date frame bigger than the date window?
Heisenberg uncertainty principle applies to all levels of size bodies but it is "significantly measurable" at subatomic level only.
Thank you for being maybe the first reviewer in the history of TH-cam to mention fully articulating bracelet links. My most comfortable watches have these. I am pretty sure my Submariner does not. Keep making videos like these. Please clap.
What is the connection between full articulation and wrist comfort? Links don't fold back and when worn, the full articulation is only noticeable when you take off the watch.
The Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic bracelet fully articulates too. And so does Traska. Only Ant-Man can do something with that. 😂
@@SamuraiJackson my guess is each link would technically have two points of articulation rather than one so if the links appear to be the same length on two bracelets the one with full articulation would have twice as many independent areas of articulation. I would assume that is more comfortable because the massive links in my Seiko MM300 are not comfortable and that would be at the extreme opposite. I can say that watch (mm300) feels way better on a jubilee style bracelet which accomplishes the same thing simply by using shorter links.
as someone who just heard of this brand, this watch checks a lot of boxes for me. I think the "sub copy" comments are a bit much, as there are many stylistic differences between this watch and that (font, color, hand style, date placement etc...). personally i cant bring myself to overpay for a rolex, so this is very likely the luxury diver ill be buying in the near future. i do think a partially lumed bezel would be very sweet.
So, I got my Submariner-like fix over a year ago with a Ginault Silent Service (with cyclops nonetheless). Now don’t be hating on me. Most of us are aware of their checkered history. But I didn’t care. I checked out the Monta, but I wanted a touch of red on the second hand, but alas. The Ginault looks great, feels like a luxury watch, keeps COS time, cost half as much as the Monta at the time, and looks at a distance like something some thief might want to steal, so ironically I’m finding I don’t wear this relatively cheap watch in places where I might be targeted. Strange. Oh, and the bezel is lumed too
Great video as usual; you made me laugh out loud with the Heisenberg references so thx 😊
To be honest I like a lot in this watch. However I would like to see some more colour variations (dial/bezel). A summer combination especially of white dial and orange bezel, is something I would like to see.
Looks good I wish the oceanking was Cosc certified just like the Titoni seascooper
Me too but Monta regularizes each movement and certifies it to the customer -5 to +5. Mine is +3/day.
Wow, that's a great-looking and well-made generic-looking diver. Does that make sense? Thumbs up for the review.
Trying to find a reason to justify that price. No quick release spring bars on the bracelet is wild, when i have a $400 dive watch that does. Also, some steel hardening on here may help get the justification up there but honestly? There are SO MANY divers out there that are 1/3 of the price and just as nice/functional.
Is there Ar on the crystal? If yes top or under ?
Under. 7 layers ! Just fantastic.
@@maitrehg do they have a stated accuracy for the movement?
@@mathieuvaillancourt3219 Monta regularizes each movement and guarantees a precision of -5 to +5sec./day. Mine gains 3 sec/day.
I love this Channel, it’s content and the levity you bring to watch collecting 😀
That being said, this model of Monta gives the appearance of a Cheap, Chinese replica made to look like a Submariner No date.
The main reason someone would buy this is because they either can’t afford the real thing(Rolex) or are misinformed.
😂 I love the little Caddy Shack reference at the end (not sure if it was intentional though)
Very intentional
I feel that there’s a sort of uncanny valley between “homage” and “in the style of” and this watch sits in it. I really like the watch, and it’s not an homage, as many things are different but it feels almost too close to Submariner, but/and as I said before I like it…. And so it goes around and around. I think picking it up would, as you said, be the requirement to making a decision!
Schrodingers watch. I'm waiting for the Skyquest with a flyer GMT and the Oceanking's clasp.
Enjoyed the review....as usual! The watch is kind of meh...not saying it's bad, just doesn't evoke a desire in me to get one
In my humble opinion the bezel looks way too tall but overall it is a nice looking submariner homage.
Love the use of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle… I can only imagine how often you would hear people say “nice Rolex”
Only people that dont know watches ask if its a rolex. Actually had a really nice convo with a sub owner after he noticed it. Put him onto the Monta brand and he almost bought the Noble right there lmao
This is a myth spread around the comments section of TH-cam. No one in the real world goes around complementing people for wearing a Rolex, along with the assumption that if someone did say that it should somehow make you feel worthless for not actually owning a Rolex.
If that's the case your money would be better spent on a therapist to sort out issues of self-esteem than on a watch.
@BrianCassidy-hb9pg 💯💯 ive had people ask me if i was wearing a Rolex but it turned into a cool conversation about a Saint Louis based company making Swiss watches. No one cares what you're wearing😂
I’ve had plenty of people compliment my “Rolex” when I was wearing nothing even close to anything they produce
Not sure where the whole seeing a therapist came from…
I kinda have to agree with others. The initial designs were more original. This is like a homage to a sub, but a few things were changed to not be a straight up clomage. And are people that bought the V1 and V2 going to be able to get replacement parts for this discontinued designs? Probably not.
This is a very good homage to the Ginault Silent Service, I'll stick with Ginault,love that watch!
Great review. I think they've gone from a fairly original design to a homage, which is a shame. Somewhere between the two would be nice. Perhaps they did it to get more Rolex sales at a cheaper cost? Would love to own or handle one regardless
Kind feels designed by committee rather than an inspired choice
If this is the 3rd generation of the Oceanking, what generation of the Noble is currently available? Thinking about pulling the trigger on that watch, which feels less like a Rolex homage, and more like it's own thing.
I believe the Noble is still first gen. However, if you order a Noble now you will get the new bracelet. The blue, anthracite and white Nobles have the older SW 300 movement with a 42 hour power reserve. I believe that once these watches are sold the new Nobles will have the newer movements with a 56 hour power reserve. The limited edition mint Noble has the upgraded movement with a 56 hour power reserve. However, there are only a few on these watches left for sale. 6:52
How can I tell if eBay sellers are selling the old bracelet Monta noble?
Monta and Formex are rocking me
I love my Gen 2 ❤
This newest third gen is fabulous but less unique.
If you're going to spend $2,500 on a Submariner homage...consider saving up for a Submariner. Excellent quality used options from the past 20-30 model years can be had for $10K. That's a steep sum for a watch, but so is $2,500. Most people will be happier with the genuine issue than a quality homage. "But the bracelet is amazing!" I agree! And you can get an equally excellent bracelet, with impressive finishing and with excellent OTF microadjust from Traska or Jack Mason or a handful of other brands that do dive watches for well under a grand.
The proposition this watch is putting forward is tough to reckon, but we're all free to do what we want. I won't begrudge another from buying this and loving it.
£10k for a 10/20 year Rolex, I'll pass. A new one isn't worth that.
@@garyboyle695 'worth' is what the market bears. They're very much worth it, going by that metric.
@@odds-and-sods Or spend even less on a bunch of comparable options under $1k. I'd hate the Ginault on my wrist knowing what it's trying to be, but that's just my opinion.
The old Rolex bracelets (pre 2010) have been surpassed by micro brands.
@@roycedot I'd agree
Lovely. Prefer the older one
I am so rooting for monta. I really want them to succeed. However, this fell so flat on me. I don't like what they have been pumping out as of late, as it seems they are doing that horrid thing all companies go through: copying Rolex.
Monta had things that made it quirky. That were so signature Monta. 60 click bezel, but they made it so high quality you couldn't help but love it. 304 Meter rating over 300. Why 304? Cause Monta. For the Skyquest, why raise the GMT hand over the indices that way? Cause Monta.
Now, it's just another Rolex homage, and for me, Monta is in timeout.
I have a Monta Noble and Triumph. These are high quality watches and I love them. But for some reason the Ocean King did not call to me. I just bought a Longines Hydroconquest GMT from an AD at a price cheaper than the Ocean King.
You can drop off the Ocean King to your local watchmaker for a service and pick it back up in a week. The Longines? Not quite... And what you saved initially, you will spend (and more) come service time. Not saying you bought a bad watch, just adding something to consider.
I understand. But the price to service a Longines watch is not terrible. I have several micro brand watches and wanted a watch with more history. The fact that I was able to purchase a Hydroconquest GMT from an AD with a five year warranty for $150 less than the Ocean King was just a bonus.
The new Longines Hydro Conquest GMT is very nice. Better pedigree and looks so good. But for quality and comfort, Monta all the way.
Absolutely disappointed in the bezel and font. Monta lost its style. 💔
Okay… whatever
They’ve always been derivative
They did the same thing between Skyquest gen 1 and 2. Gen 2 may look cleaner, but it lacks character. It’s too generic now. I’m glad I snagged a Gen 1 gilt! Debating getting their new bracelet for it, $600!! 🤦♂️🤦♂️
😪😴😴 are you done yapping?
@@BroAriq useful comment...
It's uncertain as to whether Heisenberg has a TH-cam Channel.
Looks like the ginault ocean rover which is not good for a third gen
Been looking forward to this review
That is a bit too expensive for a Sellita movement…for that price, i would go with the new Longine Hydroconquest GMT
Interesting comment. I just bought a Hydroconquest GMT from an AD at a price cheaper than the Ocean King.
In fact, it's quite a deal for that level of quality.
I have both. Monta : better quality and more comfortable. Longines : better movement and more pedigree. Both are strongly inspired by the most iconic watch ever 😉
nice vid and good sense of humor.
The designer was definitely “inspired” by the submariner 😉
Absolutely and I love it !
I prefer the less stylized version, this new 3rd gen. Would be cool if it had the lumed bezel though.
There are homage watches and then there is the Monta Ocean King. 😂😂😂
I kinda agree. Monta has lost some of its original design cues in favor of a more standard (or generic) dive style which may be heavily Rolex derived. I feel this may show even more in their Skyquest GMT redesign... I much preferred the original design with the bent GMT hand and less bold numerals on the bezel.
I think one of their last original Monta-esque design was the Triumph..but, didn't, or aren't they going to, end production on the Triumph?
No doubt this OK3 is solid built and a quality timepiece. I just wished they kept their original design concepts rather than integrating in more Rolex looking design cues.
Thanks for the great review and humor as always. However, I’m beyond tired of the sub clones. Be original Monta!
A Gump and a Caddyshack ref in one vid. More than this ‘meh’ watch deserves. That said, I’ve never held one, so there’s that. Also, compressed air is your friend for that dust.
What was my Gump reference?
@@YoureTerrific “I’m not a smart man, but I know what ……. is”
th-cam.com/video/RlF79D0iHaI/w-d-xo.htmlsi=e_4LmwINcsFadD9C
Right! It's so baked into my brain that I forgot it was a reference.
@@YoureTerrific 😂👍🏼
The real question with all these Heisenberg remarks is how is your cat doing? Great watch, personally I prefer the Nobel and they preferred Heisenberg in 1932.
I don't have a cat. Or do I? I'm not certain.
I'm late to this but it's a very nice watch which by all accounts, is very well made and comfortable to wear however, their pricing strategy is far too high. I don't live in the U.S. and so by the time you convert and allow for import and shipping, you're moving into a very different market and options. It's asking too much for a potential customer via online photos and reviews only.
Honestly, great review and video! 😉
Just kinda looks like a Sub homage now
Nice watch Evan.
It’s fantastic. The only problem is what everybody is going to say, however, it is almost as good apart from that movement which is still a fantastic movement. in terms of design, branding everything else, let’s be honest it’s pretty much there because a lot of people who know about watches will say ultimately Rolex makes steel sports watches and they are wildly wildly overpriced.
I can solve Monta's problem. 1) lose the minute markers, the hour markers are too pretty to be overrun with minute markers. 2) Change the hand set. Someone at Monta has got to be creative enough to come up with a unique set. 3) keep everything else. It's perfect.
Looks great, but I'm very happy with my Ginault Ocean Rover II.
Looks a little too much like a sub but seems to be a good value option
this looks quite generic, a step back compared to the previous generation imo. the older ones had much more character, this one just looks like every other sub homage
Great vid. Love it!
This watch is perfeft for me except 2 things. the large edge of the bezel they should make the bezel thinner imo, and i don't like monta crowns, the "onion" shape is just not for me, i like normal crowns like rolex or tudor.. everything else is just spot on.
I'm with you about that crown. Plus, it's difficult to manipulate. Tiny and slippery.
@@maitrehg Well i believe that th shape of the crown might provide a better grip, im not saying it's bad function wise, i just don't like the way it looks
@@nvc. I don't like the look but more important, on this watch, it's slippery and very hard to manipulate. I hate crown gards.
Nice Caddyshack reference...
Not a fan of the direction they’re heading. Seems to be moving more towards Rolex homages and away from original, interesting designs. I purchased a Pepsi Skyquest from them about a year ago and the first one they sent had a malfunctioning crown that wouldn’t push back into the case after time setting. I sent it back and they sent me a replacement that had ridiculous rotor noise and feel and ran at over +20 seconds a day. It’s a shame because I really enjoyed a the Triumph that I owned for a few years and was excited to see where they took the brand next. Sadly, it was backwards instead of forwards.
Heisenberg would be rocking a Tag Heuer Monaco
Looks good but I prefer the previous version. The lugs on the new one are too beefy for my taste.
Good option for the price of 2.5k, really nothing in the way of a submariner look that will also have that kind of finish. The bigger, 43mm, Tag Heuer Aquaracer comes to mind and the even bigger, well built Ball engineer may also be worth considering.
I would probably try to save and find a used Omega seamaster 300 in the 3.5-4k range, but that shows you what a value Monta is bringing if its competing with watches double in price.
The TAG use a basic Sellita SW200. The Monta bracelet and clasp are way better.
Calling a spade a spade, it's a Sub homage. I like Monta, and felt they had their own style language but this V3 is in the wrong direction. V2 was great, its own style, and very much not an homage to the crown. But too many people will ask if this is a Rolex.
It's fine. I think I would rather have a Ginault Silent Service than the new gen 3 Oceanking, awful as that might sound.
At 'Pop it out' I wanted to shout, 'That's what she said!' But I'm at work and this hospital frowns on such behavior.
Looks good. But a little bit to much submariner homage for me.
Dude the commentary is so funny