In contrast to the tourbillon this is right up my street, I've been eyeing up the ISL79 from Long Island Watch mainly because of the dial colour but this has a lot of similarities & is a better size. Ooh I want it. Great to see inside it in a review too, just as impressive as the outside.
I have really learned a lot from you about watchmaking during the pandemic, and really respect your passion for retro watches. Yesterday I ordered my own Blue Burst version of this watch from Aliexpress, and used your discount code. Keep up the great work! :)
I often find 70s styling to be rather too brash and garish for my taste but this watch looks really good and the dial is superbe. The movement performance is also very impressive.
Love Mike.. mistakes and all. One of the most honest guys in his approach to watch repair as a hobby. Can't wait for the next video. Keep up the good work Mike. Does anyone know where I can purchase a mainspring for a Seiko 6106C movement....help..Thanks
I criticised the Tourbillon for being an 'imitation', this watch is why. There is nothing to dislike about it, superb in every way, design, manufacture, finish. Thought has gone into every aspect. Thanks
Thank you for the feedback. The two watches are completely different and does show both sides to watchmaking on that continent. Some do it well and others, well for them its all about profit without looking to improve quality. Thank you again for staying around to see this video. Next its back to some repairs / restorations.
Working on a resto now pal. I said I had to knock these reviews out which I did. I have a few more things come if for review but not for a few more weeks. One could be interesting bit of kit for our hobby. Restoration videos take me 3 weeks at least to film and edit so just stay patient.
Good to see the eastern watch brands beginning to make some more original designs. The slight “noise” on the timegrapher is a concern for me that has always stopped me wasting money on these brands. I can’t talk from experience, however my opinion was originally formed from some of Mark Lovick’s videos where he showed similar results and the pulled the movements apart only to find poor quality steel and slightly dirty movements despite being brand new. Hopefully in 10-20 years things improve.
The noise is of no concern. When I am not talking or filming it’s not present. This PT movement is better than anything I’ve seen so far from there. Thanks for watching
They certainly are. Perhaps that is also why they get allot of haters. They can see quality is improving and they dont like it. In the watch community there are lots of Snobs.
@@MyRetroWatches Can’t agreed more, why bother with Snobs when you can have fun with this without upsetting your wallet, what you just said reminded me back in the 70’s when watch companies like Seiko, Citizen were first introduced to the world with many amazing quality watches, some of them even been used for the Space Mission, Sports and Antarctic Research Expedition etc.
G'Day Mike, - My watch has just arrived here in NZ .. slow delivery but well worth waiting for. It's on my wrist after shortening the excellent bracelet by two links using the tools that came with it - and THIS IS A TRULY BEAUTIFUL WATCH. Cheers mate & Thanks for your honest review.
@@MyRetroWatches BLUE but naturally eh. I also bought a cheapo $40 'Bell&Ross' copy from Ali for fun and that is not TOO bad really. - I'd love to have the required $4,000+ to get an original B&R too but my pension says NO. - Stay safe ..
Mikey, that looks bloody brilliant, I’m totally tempted to buy one…it’s mega value as well! As you know I’ve got some higher end watches, and this looks on par with those! Unbelievable price!
I was looking forward to see this review from you. I really love the look of that watch a lot. So nice to see it under the microscope too. I personally would love to see a comparison video from you of both movements.
I have to agree with you. For the money it is one of the nicest watches I have seen in a while. Our tastes are very similar, and like you, I like this style a great deal. I do prefer a leather band, as I do not enjoy the flexible metal bands pulling my arm hair! But I think this one would look quite nice with a proper leather band. Keep up the good work. I look forward to your next video.
Just scored an Alba Sapphire in the full gold and cream... UK seller too which is a result as I do likes me Seiko sub brands, couldn't sleep last nite so fixed an unusual Lorus "fridge" VD57 chrono :)
What a nice review!! I’ve just discovered your channel. Wow. Big thumbs up! Definitely, when you have some spare time, let us please discover more in detail this interesting PT5000. Would be awesome. Thanks again for the quality of this review. I’ve also just watched the one about the homage of the BB36. 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻 PS . Needless to say that you have a new subscriber
Beautiful watch Mike!, love it!. If I were picky, I would prefer a classic crown. Not sure I like the NUT look!, for want of a better word. Gorgeous watch though and great review. 👍. Adrian
I am impressed with what SM has put forth, punches really hard on paper, but I am not really comfortable spending money on this model, maybe the next one! Thanks for your thoughts, Cheers mate!
Well thanks for watching all the same and appreciate your feedback ! I think my discount code will work on anything from that shop (or others) as it was the same code for the Tourbillon review .
Actually I like this one. I was on the fence but after seeing the timegrapher trace and numbers, I have to say that's pretty damn good. I have Seiko's that are not as good. Great convincing review Mike.
@@MyRetroWatches What you talking about?? Your reviews are better than a lot of other TH-camrs reviews. You dont go on and on and you actually know what youre talking about. I'd love to see more!!.... Oh, on a side note, I lost a day corrector spring 'A' whilst doing my first ever rebuild, pinged off my tweezers never to be seen again. On my hands and knees for hours I was, haha.
@@mitchsmith71 thanks pal honestly appreciate that. As for a spring we have all been there and I’ve actually printed it on a T Shirt! Buy a big magnet. I’ve found 95% of things I’ve lost using a magnet . As Springs are light they don’t travel far.
Once again a great and informative video. I am also into retro watches. This one not quite my style, but looks to be well made and excellent accuracy. I have more expensive homage watches that don’t come near this. Looking forward to more of your videos. Many Thanks
You do get a lot of bang for your buck with San Martin and other chinese watch manufacturers. As good as the PT5000 seems I do wonder though if it's got staying power and how long will it need before servicing. I guess only time will tell. Great vid and thanks.
Great review, i have 2 watches with PT5000 movement both from Chinese brand Cronos, finish on these watches are great for the price and both are super accurate. I have a San Martin retro 6200 water ghost NH35 the finishing is great.
Good question and not to my knowledge about a torque wrench. However these were just light finger tight. The screws are just going into threaded holes in the case , there was also a big gasket making the seal. No way they should have been so lose as potentially they would fall out over time.
May i ask you a question not regarding this video?..where do you order internal spare parts for watches? I need some jewels for an ETA 7750 movement. I have just started this hobby, and thought It was a good idea to service my tag Heuer Carrera..broke a jewel in the process of course...
Depends on where you are in the world. Here in uk it would be Cousinsuk.com if you join my Facebook group ( link in description) guys in there would help you for sure
Gary from ILW tried to remove the screws, alas, no luick. If the PT5000 movement is lubricated, it is incredibly accurate, sometimes the reverse wheel stem is dry, and this obviously creates problems. Aesthetically the PT5000 is pretty identical to the ETA2824, and that screw you referred to does indeed adjust the rate. Just one thing, it is a "Timegrapher" not a "Timergraph"
I know what the machine is called but I call it anything. I am not perfect by any means and do all my videos on the fly rather than script. I am new to reviews as my channel is mainly watchmaking as perhaps you know if you have been here a while. I will try to improve my terminology in the future. Gary was not using the right size driver in my opinion which is very important in watchmaking and why he marked his screw. Agreed they could be display but they could also be torqued and thread locked into place. I have also left his comment with someone else who suggests the same. That maybe so but the bezel is a separate piece of steel to the case. I can tell that because the bottom face under the bezel is ground and you could not apply that finish if the bezel was not there. Pressing it in could cause damage to the top face of the bezel and then there is also the access to crystal. Crystal could have a hard nylon gasket in the aperture (and most likely has) and would be pressed in. I will have to see on mine if the crystal looks wider than the bezel opening. They could well have thread locked the screws in because to line them all up like that is very difficult to do but not impossible.
I am wondering what the technical difference is between a Chinese watch and a "cheap" Chinese watch. Either way, our host does an commendable job of shilling for this watch.
how is this shilling? its my opinion. I like the watch. I am not being paid by San Martin. Okay I do get to keep it but so do all other reviewers. Please don't think I am taking payment for these. The heart of my channel is to restore and repair and teach / inspire more into this hobby. I wanted to do some reviews to broaden my horizons, for the challenge and as I am genuinely interested in these affordable new watches.
I adore this watch except for two painful things: 1) No exhibition case back and 2) No date or day/date. I would buy it in an INSTANT if it had either, and pay more if it had both. It is SO close.
The lack of date complication is a total deal breaker for me. Otherwise I love the watch, especially the bracelet. I'm on the fence about the screws on face and would like to know if they really are screws or just decoration. Thanks for exposing this brand as I was not aware. That is a killer bracelet!
I think the screws are screws . If you look at the side shots you can see that the bottom face of the case is ground , then the bezel is on top of that. You could not grind the bottom face if the bezel as integrated. Also there is no other way to the crystal.
There is a rare Slava tank auto that looks exactly like that San Martin save it has a perspex "screen" instead of a bespoke crystal but the quite obvious 4 screws extant.
Thanks for this. I am shopping for my son a watch. He has worked so hard and will graduate from college on a football scholarship in a couple of years. My budget is limited with 5 kids and all but would like to know if I started saving a bit here and there to get a great value - is this what you suggest? Something fashionable which will hold up and is $300 or less. If not, then what? Thanks
Hard to say on this one because it’s a unique design. Click on my link to go to San Martin shop and look at the 6200 model. This is a vintage looking Rolex from 50s . I highly rate that model and have one soon to review for the next AliExpress sale in March
I wanted to ask a question and I would appreciate if you could answer it for me please. I am in Australia and we have the Maxwell brand batteries. These are silver oxide batteries, it was recommended to only use them. Do you use silver oxide batteries and if not is it ok to use cheaply brands?
That maybe so but the bezel is a separate piece of steel to the case. I can tell that because the bottom face under the bezel is ground and you could not apply that finish if the bezel was not there. Pressing it in could cause damage to the top face of the bezel and then there is also the access to crystal. Crystal could have a hard nylon gasket in the aperture (and most likely has) and would be pressed in. I will have to see on mine if the crystal looks wider than the bezel opening. They could well have threadlocked the screws in because to line them all up like that is very difficult to do but not impossible.
Thanks for the great review! This kind of 70s inspired design is not my cup of tea but the finish on case and the bracelet are really outstanding and they must be a beauty in person! The dial and hands also seem very well done! I have the Seiko 62MAS homage from San Martin and the quality is great on it, too. Not a big fan of homage watches either but hey, who can find/afford a real 62MAS? ;)
Thanks. Actually wearing this one today. Thinking about reviewing the 6200 San Martin which homages Sean Connery Bond 1950s Rolex. One of the only homage I like because the original is practically impossible to obtain.
It’s a video I want do to. Just need to find a reasonably priced ETA2824 ! They do seem to go for more than I’d like to spend on a movement just for a video
As for the missing side I don’t know. Personally I think the PT5000 is a better movement than the NH35 For dials it’s all about the location of the dial feet unless you want to snap them off and use other methods to fit a dial. For me this one is staying like it is .
I belive the PT 5000 is quite good quality the individual parts look very well made, i must get one to try it, cheers Mike that watch does look very 70s enjoy it. The price isn't terrible, it's quite good for a 25j H&H 28,800vph and very good finishing, it would probably be a bit more just for a Selita or Eta there's a shop in ebay the guy or gal if from Switzerland and he has normal and elabora ( higher quality but you know) found just looking for movements on ebay they was around there, i have seen the PT for around 60 but can't say as to it's quality.
I have 3 watches with pt5000's & my friend has 1. All 4 run absolutely fabulous in real world & on the time grapher. They are just great clones. They are leagues ahead of the other super cheap Chinese eta2824 clones.
Bracelets that are not oyster style are definitly coming back. The finishing is very good, cant get any better for that price. The downside I see, the case looks a bit bulky and the crown doesnt match the case nor the bracelet but wouldn't stop me from buying it.
I agree on the bracelet. Anything that’s not H link is and improvement and i love the bracelet on this. The design does not suit everyone’s tastes. I love the more unusual though . Thanks for watching.
I hope to get another of this movement either in another review or I will buy one, I’d certainly like to compare to the original eta. Apparently the ETA2824 has been copied many times by all kinds. Might make for good content one day.
Beautiful piece! Love that square case design. I was wondering about the set screws on top, too. Great attention to detail if those actual and lined up like that. Thanks for spending some time on the timegrapher with this PT5000…cool to see even a brief rundown of positions.
Yeah that's often the problem with Chinese watches, often they have Hobbit size straps, always have to replace them with a 29 cm NATO.. my wrist is about 25 cm, average dutch ..., not really big..
Eeh you'll have to cut-out this stuff as I've just gone and used your link to buy one. - Well I've been looking for something out of the standard run of 'DIVE WATCHES' and like the look of this quality .. Oh Dear .. that's porridge oats every day for weeks now!
Haha. Thanks for using the link. For a moment I thought you were going to tell me to cut out doing reviews! I hope you will like yours. It’s different but looks really nice.
Have a Bronze San Martin Bluewater ghost (Rolex homage). When I got that watch, the first thing that struck me was how good a job they did of its fantastic work. But this watch does not excite me, not a fan of the design. Crazy sentence structure courtesy of Grammarly and me not checking. 🤣🤣
They certainly have good manufacturing. Granted the styling on this one is not for everyone but then that’s what is good about this hobby we all like different stuff. I love the weird and whacky
Great review but i guess its like art, leaves me cold definitely would not wear it just doesn't do anything for me. Definitely a movement breakdown would be interesting.
Although I can understand and appreciate your appreciation for this watch, it just isn't for me. That dial just lacks individuality, or a character all of it's own. It could be just any other watch, as you said, reminiscent of 70's Seiko designs. Why not come up with something that looks both retro and individual. The case and bracelet are faultless, the crown has an excellent nut shape. Pity they ghosted the date complication, even Vostok don't do that and at this much higher price range I'd expect a better solution.
Thanks for your feedback Gary. I realise this does not float everyone's boat but that is what is good about watch collecting. There is something for everyone. Ghosting is a shame but not the first time I have seen it. maybe a date at 6 would have been good on this one but I do like the symmetry this one has. Thank you for watching.
Quality Chinese watches are sullied by the reputation the country has of making fakes. The drop-shipping mess of stuff like Filippo Loreti and others doesn't help. I have a Chinese watch, with a Seiko movement, but the case, links, dial, hands, everything is top quality.
Often there is a lot of nationalism, fear and racism involved when people talk bad a bout China.. China already made high quality ceramics and textiles , metals etc, at a time the English were still running around in bearskins holding a club, no wonder people fear China so much..
@@SideWalkAstronomyNetherlands Unfortunately they then stood still for centuries and the west left them well behind. Can the Chinese produce quality products, of course they can, just not great at inovating.
@@SideWalkAstronomyNetherlands When I was a kid, it was the Japanese who made cheap stuff. Well, that's all changed. If China enforced copyright laws, they would go a long way in enhancing a deserved reputation for quality.
I must admit that my first impression of this watch was surprisingly good. Often a nod to the past somehow misses the point. Not with this watch though Mike. It looks like it came right out of 1972! Its rather lovely, but the Lego tub it arrived in looks more 1990s than 70s! The finishing is superb. Make sure you pack it safely before you send it to my home address!
In terms of aesthetics, there just isn't much form the 70s that has a lot of appeal for me. This seems like a good quality timepiece, but it is truly unattractive to me.
I’m enjoying watching your back catalogue! Great channel!
The finishing is really fantastic on that piece. Very interesting design also, definitely an original one. Great review mate 👍
Thanks Jason. Appreciate you watching pal.
This watch is awesome! I liked its finishing and its diel.
In contrast to the tourbillon this is right up my street, I've been eyeing up the ISL79 from Long Island Watch mainly because of the dial colour but this has a lot of similarities & is a better size. Ooh I want it. Great to see inside it in a review too, just as impressive as the outside.
Thank you very much for the feedback.
Jesus, I keep coming back to this video, really freaked out on this watch. Thanks for the review!
It is nice!!
I have really learned a lot from you about watchmaking during the pandemic, and really respect your passion for retro watches. Yesterday I ordered my own Blue Burst version of this watch from Aliexpress, and used your discount code. Keep up the great work! :)
Great watch and commentary to go for this beauty 👌, thanks alot
Sorry for late reply. Thank you for this comment. Really pleased I have entertained you in the pandemic!
Absolutely beautiful!!!! Might be my number51. My girl is going to kill me! Just bought a Armitron griffy last week.
I have a watch with an eta 2824 that I would let you use for the comparison video.
Very impressive. I agree on the homage stuff: it's no way to build a brand.
BAM...!!! LOVE THIS DESIGN...!!!
Glad you like it!
I like it too!! Always a great review!!
St. Martin. Watch sno26g 1970 s retro styling like 👍
A really well built watch, it recalls the time well, and they have taken the trouble to adjust the movement well.
Thank you Sergi.
The watch looks fantastic. And a steal at that price.
I often find 70s styling to be rather too brash and garish for my taste but this watch looks really good and the dial is superbe.
The movement performance is also very impressive.
@@jollyrob ???
@@owengoodspeed5763 🤣 sorry I was answering another comment.
@@jollyrob You certainly had me puzzled! 😄
Just wonderful
This is a really beautiful watch! Just after my taste.
Love Mike.. mistakes and all. One of the most honest guys in his approach to watch repair as a hobby. Can't wait for the next video. Keep up the good work Mike. Does anyone know where I can purchase a mainspring for a Seiko 6106C movement....help..Thanks
Cousins might have the right size spring.
You can use one from a 6119.
@@MyRetroWatches Thanks Mike, all went well with my first rebuild...thank you for the inspiration to get it done
I criticised the Tourbillon for being an 'imitation', this watch is why. There is nothing to dislike about it, superb in every way, design, manufacture, finish. Thought has gone into every aspect. Thanks
Thank you for the feedback. The two watches are completely different and does show both sides to watchmaking on that continent. Some do it well and others, well for them its all about profit without looking to improve quality. Thank you again for staying around to see this video. Next its back to some repairs / restorations.
Pulled the trigger on the green one using your code. BOOM!
Thank you for using my link. I hope you will like the watch. Which colour did you go for?
Like I said, green. 😛
@@TheSilverDubberII Sometimes I have to question my own eyes :-)
I have to say it took a while to warm to the design of this watch, cheers Mike stay safe
And you Sir.
I thought you said you weren’t doing lots of reviews!! More repairs and rebuilds please 👍
Working on a resto now pal. I said I had to knock these reviews out which I did.
I have a few more things come if for review but not for a few more weeks. One could be interesting bit of kit for our hobby.
Restoration videos take me 3 weeks at least to film and edit so just stay patient.
@@MyRetroWatches
Will do 👍
Great idea to compare movements Sir. Might as well include a Sellita SW 200-1.
If I could get all 3 in one place maybe one day this could happen. Thanks for watching.
Good to see the eastern watch brands beginning to make some more original designs. The slight “noise” on the timegrapher is a concern for me that has always stopped me wasting money on these brands. I can’t talk from experience, however my opinion was originally formed from some of Mark Lovick’s videos where he showed similar results and the pulled the movements apart only to find poor quality steel and slightly dirty movements despite being brand new.
Hopefully in 10-20 years things improve.
The noise is of no concern. When I am not talking or filming it’s not present.
This PT movement is better than anything I’ve seen so far from there.
Thanks for watching
@@MyRetroWatches ah ok. That’s good to know. Thanks for confirming and keep up the amazing work matey.
Best review yet Mike, maybe your (justified) enthusiasm added something! It certainly looks a fantastic watch, the finishing is something else ❤
Thank you so much Clive. Yes genuinely excited by this one. There is a fair this Sunday ! Not 100% yet but if I go then this will come along
Nice finish watch indeed, Chinese watches are getting better in every aspect
They certainly are. Perhaps that is also why they get allot of haters. They can see quality is improving and they dont like it. In the watch community there are lots of Snobs.
@@MyRetroWatches Can’t agreed more, why bother with Snobs when you can have fun with this without upsetting your wallet, what you just said reminded me back in the 70’s when watch companies like Seiko, Citizen were first introduced to the world with many amazing quality watches, some of them even been used for the Space Mission, Sports and Antarctic Research Expedition etc.
G'Day Mike, - My watch has just arrived here in NZ .. slow delivery but well worth waiting for. It's on my wrist after shortening the excellent bracelet by two links using the tools that came with it - and THIS IS A TRULY BEAUTIFUL WATCH. Cheers mate & Thanks for your honest review.
Brilliant. Glad you like it. It’s very well made and has a look all of its ownZ
What colour did you go for?
@@MyRetroWatches BLUE but naturally eh. I also bought a cheapo $40 'Bell&Ross' copy from Ali for fun and that is not TOO bad really. - I'd love to have the required $4,000+ to get an original B&R too but my pension says NO. - Stay safe ..
@@martinkavanagh9641 good stuff. Not everything on AliExpress is crap despite what the purists say.
Now that, I'd wear in a heartbeat !
To answer your question (who doesn't like a blue dial ?) : There is one madman in Texas who hates em...
Paddy
Mikey, that looks bloody brilliant, I’m totally tempted to buy one…it’s mega value as well! As you know I’ve got some higher end watches, and this looks on par with those! Unbelievable price!
Watch fair tomorrow mate and I will have it with me if you want to see it !
@@MyRetroWatches mikey, didn’t know it was on! And I’m on hols as well! Bummer…
I was looking forward to see this review from you.
I really love the look of that watch a lot.
So nice to see it under the microscope too.
I personally would love to see a comparison video from you of both movements.
Glad you enjoyed it! yes I will at some point get a PT5000 and a 2824 together to service both and give an opinion.
Love it! I totally agree with you on the style...just what I like also 😁 keep up the excellent work xx
Thank you so much!!
I love the watch and enjoyed the review. Thanx Michael!!
Hi Glen, thank you . Hope you are keeping well and still at the watch bench?
@@MyRetroWatches I still fiddle a bit with the watches. Yes, we are fine here in Panama. Hope you are doing well also.
PT5000 is pretty rock solid. Slightly less enamoured of San Martin. A little variable.
Hammerteil! Mit Datum bei 6 würde ich es sofort ordern!
date at 6 would be very nice.
Spectaculer video review - subscribed !!!
I have to agree with you. For the money it is one of the nicest watches I have seen in a while. Our tastes are very similar, and like you, I like this style a great deal. I do prefer a leather band, as I do not enjoy the flexible metal bands pulling my arm hair! But I think this one would look quite nice with a proper leather band. Keep up the good work. I look forward to your next video.
Thanks. I have hairy arms but I rarely have pulling issues on more modern bracelets . Especially solid link ones.
Just scored an Alba Sapphire in the full gold and cream... UK seller too which is a result as I do likes me Seiko sub brands, couldn't sleep last nite so fixed an unusual Lorus "fridge" VD57 chrono :)
What a nice review!! I’ve just discovered your channel. Wow. Big thumbs up! Definitely, when you have some spare time, let us please discover more in detail this interesting PT5000. Would be awesome. Thanks again for the quality of this review. I’ve also just watched the one about the homage of the BB36. 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻
PS . Needless to say that you have a new subscriber
Thank you for watching, enjoying and subscribing.
Beautiful watch Mike!, love it!. If I were picky, I would prefer a classic crown. Not sure I like the NUT look!, for want of a better word. Gorgeous watch though and great review. 👍. Adrian
Thanks Adrian. I actually like the nut look so does that make me a nutter!
I am impressed with what SM has put forth, punches really hard on paper, but I am not really comfortable spending money on this model, maybe the next one! Thanks for your thoughts, Cheers mate!
Well thanks for watching all the same and appreciate your feedback ! I think my discount code will work on anything from that shop (or others) as it was the same code for the Tourbillon review .
Actually I like this one. I was on the fence but after seeing the timegrapher trace and numbers, I have to say that's pretty damn good. I have Seiko's that are not as good. Great convincing review Mike.
Thanks very much Jeff. Appreciate the feedback.
Nice bling free watch, luv it!
Absolutely love the watch, and really loving your reviews.
Thank you Mitch. I’m still not 100% on reviewing and feel more at home restoring.
@@MyRetroWatches What you talking about?? Your reviews are better than a lot of other TH-camrs reviews. You dont go on and on and you actually know what youre talking about. I'd love to see more!!.... Oh, on a side note, I lost a day corrector spring 'A' whilst doing my first ever rebuild, pinged off my tweezers never to be seen again. On my hands and knees for hours I was, haha.
@@mitchsmith71 thanks pal honestly appreciate that. As for a spring we have all been there and I’ve actually printed it on a T Shirt!
Buy a big magnet. I’ve found 95% of things I’ve lost using a magnet .
As Springs are light they don’t travel far.
Once again a great and informative video. I am also into retro watches. This one not quite my style, but looks to be well made and excellent accuracy. I have more expensive homage watches that don’t come near this. Looking forward to more of your videos. Many Thanks
Thanks for watching and giving me feedback. Appreciate this.
You do get a lot of bang for your buck with San Martin and other chinese watch manufacturers. As good as the PT5000 seems I do wonder though if it's got staying power and how long will it need before servicing. I guess only time will tell. Great vid and thanks.
Long term on the movement who knows but a service would always be my first call and would enjoy doing it.
Great review, i have 2 watches with PT5000 movement both from Chinese brand Cronos, finish on these watches are great for the price and both are super accurate. I have a San Martin retro 6200 water ghost NH35 the finishing is great.
Impressive looking watch, and I love the 70s styling, nice review, Mike!
Thank you.
Oris dial, oak bezel, mix&match, not bad overall
How tight should the back be? Do watches uses any type of mini torque wrench?
Good question and not to my knowledge about a torque wrench. However these were just light finger tight. The screws are just going into threaded holes in the case , there was also a big gasket making the seal.
No way they should have been so lose as potentially they would fall out over time.
May i ask you a question not regarding this video?..where do you order internal spare parts for watches? I need some jewels for an ETA 7750 movement. I have just started this hobby, and thought It was a good idea to service my tag Heuer Carrera..broke a jewel in the process of course...
Depends on where you are in the world. Here in uk it would be Cousinsuk.com if you join my Facebook group ( link in description) guys in there would help you for sure
@@MyRetroWatches Norway, hard to find anything here🤪..ok will join your FB. cheers for the swift reply..
Good looking watch for sure and a great thorough review 👍🏻
Thank you Aviv. From you this means allot!
which macro lens do you use for your videos?
I use a microscope
Beautiful watch, i like the polished center cap? of the second hand, classy
I like it might have to get me one
Looks a lot like a Bell&aRoss. The exposed crown sort of does not match the look, but overall it is a winner.
Gary from ILW tried to remove the screws, alas, no luick. If the PT5000 movement is lubricated, it is incredibly accurate, sometimes the reverse wheel stem is dry, and this obviously creates problems. Aesthetically the PT5000 is pretty identical to the ETA2824, and that screw you referred to does indeed adjust the rate. Just one thing, it is a "Timegrapher" not a "Timergraph"
I know what the machine is called but I call it anything. I am not perfect by any means and do all my videos on the fly rather than script. I am new to reviews as my channel is mainly watchmaking as perhaps you know if you have been here a while. I will try to improve my terminology in the future.
Gary was not using the right size driver in my opinion which is very important in watchmaking and why he marked his screw. Agreed they could be display but they could also be torqued and thread locked into place. I have also left his comment with someone else who suggests the same.
That maybe so but the bezel is a separate piece of steel to the case. I can tell that because the bottom face under the bezel is ground and you could not apply that finish if the bezel was not there. Pressing it in could cause damage to the top face of the bezel and then there is also the access to crystal. Crystal could have a hard nylon gasket in the aperture (and most likely has) and would be pressed in. I will have to see on mine if the crystal looks wider than the bezel opening. They could well have thread locked the screws in because to line them all up like that is very difficult to do but not impossible.
@@MyRetroWatches sorry if you took offence to my post. I enjoy your videos, and appreciate your knowledge. Keep it up
I am wondering what the technical difference is between a Chinese watch and a "cheap" Chinese watch. Either way, our host does an commendable job of shilling for this watch.
You listened but didn't understand a simple statement 🤷♂️
how is this shilling? its my opinion. I like the watch. I am not being paid by San Martin. Okay I do get to keep it but so do all other reviewers. Please don't think I am taking payment for these. The heart of my channel is to restore and repair and teach / inspire more into this hobby. I wanted to do some reviews to broaden my horizons, for the challenge and as I am genuinely interested in these affordable new watches.
I adore this watch except for two painful things: 1) No exhibition case back and 2) No date or day/date. I would buy it in an INSTANT if it had either, and pay more if it had both. It is SO close.
The lack of date complication is a total deal breaker for me. Otherwise I love the watch, especially the bracelet. I'm on the fence about the screws on face and would like to know if they really are screws or just decoration. Thanks for exposing this brand as I was not aware. That is a killer bracelet!
I think the screws are screws . If you look at the side shots you can see that the bottom face of the case is ground , then the bezel is on top of that. You could not grind the bottom face if the bezel as integrated.
Also there is no other way to the crystal.
There is a rare Slava tank auto that looks exactly like that San Martin save it has a perspex "screen" instead of a bespoke crystal but the quite obvious 4 screws extant.
Thanks for this. I am shopping for my son a watch. He has worked so hard and will graduate from college on a football scholarship in a couple of years. My budget is limited with 5 kids and all but would like to know if I started saving a bit here and there to get a great value - is this what you suggest? Something fashionable which will hold up and is $300 or less. If not, then what? Thanks
Hard to say on this one because it’s a unique design.
Click on my link to go to San Martin shop and look at the 6200 model.
This is a vintage looking Rolex from 50s . I highly rate that model and have one soon to review for the next AliExpress sale in March
Very nice, Good review. Certainly Will get One.
Thank you.
I wanted to ask a question and I would appreciate if you could answer it for me please. I am in Australia and we have the Maxwell brand batteries. These are silver oxide batteries, it was recommended to only use them. Do you use silver oxide batteries and if not is it ok to use cheaply brands?
I use Renata or Seizaiken batteries but as long as they are silver oxide. The cheap alkaline ones have potential to leak and ruin the watch.
@@MyRetroWatches Thanks.
Great review, awesome looking watch but unfortunately I do not think the case screws on the top are functional based on a few other reviews.
That maybe so but the bezel is a separate piece of steel to the case. I can tell that because the bottom face under the bezel is ground and you could not apply that finish if the bezel was not there. Pressing it in could cause damage to the top face of the bezel and then there is also the access to crystal. Crystal could have a hard nylon gasket in the aperture (and most likely has) and would be pressed in. I will have to see on mine if the crystal looks wider than the bezel opening. They could well have threadlocked the screws in because to line them all up like that is very difficult to do but not impossible.
Great Vid ty.. Lovely piece, only thing id change is crown shape.. Not big fan of hex.. Cheers
Fair enough!
Thanks for the great review! This kind of 70s inspired design is not my cup of tea but the finish on case and the bracelet are really outstanding and they must be a beauty in person! The dial and hands also seem very well done! I have the Seiko 62MAS homage from San Martin and the quality is great on it, too. Not a big fan of homage watches either but hey, who can find/afford a real 62MAS? ;)
Thanks. Actually wearing this one today. Thinking about reviewing the 6200 San Martin which homages Sean Connery Bond 1950s Rolex. One of the only homage I like because the original is practically impossible to obtain.
I"d love to see an actual comparison of the 2824 with its Chinese clone!
It’s a video I want do to. Just need to find a reasonably priced ETA2824 ! They do seem to go for more than I’d like to spend on a movement just for a video
The watch looks very well built and designed. It was a great review. Do you think this can be modded with an NH35 and 28.5mm Seiko dials?
As for the missing side I don’t know. Personally I think the PT5000 is a better movement than the NH35
For dials it’s all about the location of the dial feet unless you want to snap them off and use other methods to fit a dial.
For me this one is staying like it is .
@@MyRetroWatches could you provide the approximate measurement of the sapphire crystal or dial? Just to estimate dial size. Thanks!!
I belive the PT 5000 is quite good quality the individual parts look very well made, i must get one to try it, cheers Mike that watch does look very 70s enjoy it.
The price isn't terrible, it's quite good for a 25j H&H 28,800vph and very good finishing, it would probably be a bit more just for a Selita or Eta there's a shop in ebay the guy or gal if from Switzerland and he has normal and elabora ( higher quality but you know) found just looking for movements on ebay they was around there, i have seen the PT for around 60 but can't say as to it's quality.
Thanks for tuning in Dave.
I have 3 watches with pt5000's & my friend has 1. All 4 run absolutely fabulous in real world & on the time grapher. They are just great clones. They are leagues ahead of the other super cheap Chinese eta2824 clones.
Thank you, this is good information for long term use of this movement.
Bracelets that are not oyster style are definitly coming back. The finishing is very good, cant get any better for that price. The downside I see, the case looks a bit bulky and the crown doesnt match the case nor the bracelet but wouldn't stop me from buying it.
I agree on the bracelet. Anything that’s not H link is and improvement and i love the bracelet on this.
The design does not suit everyone’s tastes. I love the more unusual though .
Thanks for watching.
A lot to like about this one Mike. Well impressed with the movement. I wonder if you'll be servicing PTs in the future, or will they just be replaced?
I hope to get another of this movement either in another review or I will buy one, I’d certainly like to compare to the original eta. Apparently the ETA2824 has been copied many times by all kinds.
Might make for good content one day.
@@MyRetroWatches now that sounds like a classic in the making! Cheers, Howard
Beautiful piece! Love that square case design. I was wondering about the set screws on top, too. Great attention to detail if those actual and lined up like that. Thanks for spending some time on the timegrapher with this PT5000…cool to see even a brief rundown of positions.
Thanks . The movement does seem to be running superbly !
Looks like a Bell & Ross to me. Nothing wrong with that, but I just wanted to voice my opinion.
and that is a fair comment. At least its smaller than the B&R as those things are huge.
Cracking looking watch, now if they could just make it for big-boy wrists I'd have one...
Haha how big is your wrist!?!
@@MyRetroWatches 21cm, former roofer.... 😂😂
@@MyRetroWatches I have the 44mm San Martin Grand Seiko homage with the pt 5000, the finishing is incredible!
Yeah that's often the problem with Chinese watches, often they have Hobbit size straps, always have to replace them with a 29 cm NATO.. my wrist is about 25 cm, average dutch ..., not really big..
with fingers like a blind cobbler!
i love it
That was a very nice watch for the money! How much extra is it for the selitta variant?
Around £80!
I’d bet those 199 sell out just from this video
Blue dial or silver dial?
For me the blue.
Watch design is what the Chinese are really not (yet) good at.
But making the watch itself, is on par with many swiss/usa/german watch brands.
A fair point .
Nice looking watch with a solid timegrapher reading for the price! Looks like an homage to the new Bell & Ross BR05, definitely a looker 👍🏻
I can see a slight resemblance, but to be honest, I think the SM actually looks nicer
Good 👍
I like it...
the only thing to me that looks a bit out of place is the crown, looks to big...
A fair point. Personally I like the crown for its flat sections rather than knurling.
:)
A the cookie jar!
Eeh you'll have to cut-out this stuff as I've just gone and used your link to buy one. - Well I've been looking for something out of the standard run of 'DIVE WATCHES' and like the look of this quality .. Oh Dear .. that's porridge oats every day for weeks now!
Haha. Thanks for using the link. For a moment I thought you were going to tell me to cut out doing reviews!
I hope you will like yours. It’s different but looks really nice.
Have a Bronze San Martin Bluewater ghost (Rolex homage). When I got that watch, the first thing that struck me was how good a job they did of its fantastic work. But this watch does not excite me, not a fan of the design. Crazy sentence structure courtesy of Grammarly and me not checking. 🤣🤣
They certainly have good manufacturing. Granted the styling on this one is not for everyone but then that’s what is good about this hobby we all like different stuff. I love the weird and whacky
The blue dial is already sold out
I just looked and I can still put at Sunray Blue PT (PT5000) in the basket. Not sure they have the SW200 one though.
Great review but i guess its like art, leaves me cold definitely would not wear it just doesn't do anything for me. Definitely a movement breakdown would be interesting.
That’s a fair comment. I know it’s not for everyone . My tastes can be a bit extreme sometimes
It's a nice looking watch just too small
Although I can understand and appreciate your appreciation for this watch, it just isn't for me.
That dial just lacks individuality, or a character all of it's own.
It could be just any other watch, as you said, reminiscent of 70's Seiko designs.
Why not come up with something that looks both retro and individual.
The case and bracelet are faultless, the crown has an excellent nut shape.
Pity they ghosted the date complication, even Vostok don't do that and at
this much higher price range I'd expect a better solution.
Thanks for your feedback Gary. I realise this does not float everyone's boat but that is what is good about watch collecting. There is something for everyone. Ghosting is a shame but not the first time I have seen it. maybe a date at 6 would have been good on this one but I do like the symmetry this one has. Thank you for watching.
Looks likeTag Heuer Monza
Quality Chinese watches are sullied by the reputation the country has of making fakes. The drop-shipping mess of stuff like Filippo Loreti and others doesn't help. I have a Chinese watch, with a Seiko movement, but the case, links, dial, hands, everything is top quality.
Often there is a lot of nationalism, fear and racism involved when people talk bad a bout China.. China already made high quality ceramics and textiles , metals etc, at a time the English were still running around in bearskins holding a club, no wonder people fear China so much..
@@SideWalkAstronomyNetherlands Unfortunately they then stood still for centuries and the west left them well behind. Can the Chinese produce quality products, of course they can, just not great at inovating.
@@SideWalkAstronomyNetherlands When I was a kid, it was the Japanese who made cheap stuff. Well, that's all changed. If China enforced copyright laws, they would go a long way in enhancing a deserved reputation for quality.
Completely ageee
I must admit that my first impression of this watch was surprisingly good. Often a nod to the past somehow misses the point. Not with this watch though Mike. It looks like it came right out of 1972! Its rather lovely, but the Lego tub it arrived in looks more 1990s than 70s! The finishing is superb. Make sure you pack it safely before you send it to my home address!
👍👍👍 🇧🇷
In terms of aesthetics, there just isn't much form the 70s that has a lot of appeal for me. This seems like a good quality timepiece, but it is truly unattractive to me.
Thanks I do realise that everyone will not like this piece. Also my tastes can be quite extreme. Thank you for watching.
If they hadn't added those dumb screws on it, it would have been ok, it's so un-watchmaking so unnecessary.
I like them but then that’s what makes us all different. Also seen screws like this in 70s pieces before.
Thanks for watching all the same.