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@@asorockwatches6076 If that's true then here's an idea for a future video. Comparing materials between products. Either way the fact that a company is making the exact same product just with "better" materials is not good either, especially given the fact that the price tag still doesn't justify the "upgrade"
@@asorockwatches6076 I’m glad you’re admitting your designs aren’t original, but your advertising doesn’t reflect that at all. If you were to change your advertising, to market something more honest like “upgraded watches,” and not go all the way out on the “carefully designed premium luxury” branch, you might get a bit more respect from the watch community.
@@asorockwatches6076 And of course shipping anything as expensive as a watch through an African post office almost guarantees it's disappearance before it arrives at the customer!
Big admirer of the craft behind this video . This is such a great example of how to make a video with a story that keeps you watching from a subject which could have so easily just been an unboxing. Well impressed!
@@asorockwatches6076 9 times out 10 people who purchase luxury watches care about the company and their back catalog. Why do you think heritage is a thing. His review of the company as a whole is relevant to the audience he is producing his content for. With 100s of micro brands popping up each year, getting to know the brand and the little nuance differences between them is vital. Think squale, steinhart, pagani and Invicta all make sub homages. Eh, whatever
I actually absolutely lost interest during the boring intro😅 Then it became an ad. Absolutely terrible delivery Didn't even make it to the watch in the first few minutes. 🤣🤣🤣
Man, I'd love to see his takes on more expensive pieces. I know, I know. It goes against the rules of his channel. But I love the way he presents. Good job, Ben.
I wouldn't really call them "brands" they are more like pop up scams that slap a name on a generic watch. Nothing more than the ring scams one would find in any tourist area of a major city.
It is the typical story. A new microbrand will contract out the production of a watch from a factory in China who do almost all the work for a low price. Then, there is the emotionally manipulative and misleading sentimental story meant to hook us and override out better judgement. So a couple of Africans living permanently in the US have some watches designed and made in China from generic stock, and suddenly it becomes...an "African watch", despite the fact that no one actually in Africa actually had anything to do with it. I am sure that they will sell more than a few based on this back story....just like the othes.
Caveman Watches are a better story for African watch brands. Entrepreneur in Ghana, he's pretty open about parts coming from China but does assembly in Africa. Quality doesn't look half bad, either.
Certainly. A lot of the Swiss luxury brands do share tons of components, but what differentiates them into luxury territory is the effort put into it, as well as the heritage. You can certainly make a luxury watch w/o the heritage, but you have to put in the effort. Design, finishing, movement modifications, attention to details that nobody will see.
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Clearly Spaghetti Scammeti has started a revolution in the watch industry, and everyone wants on the gravy train!
@@itguy7336 But I want it to scratch, makes it look like I actually do things! "That big ding on the case? Yeah, I got that climbing El Capitan, totally didn't happen walking into the garage!"
Terrific video Ben, your honesty, thoroughness and morality/ethics for your own brand is exemplary, don't ever change this. Definitely one of THE best watch YT'bers for these reasons and your unique style and you are always evolving/improving/trying new things. Brilliant Sir. Stay safe, Ben
100% not normal behavior for us in the states. Incredibly expensive for what they’re offering. The Megir provides a better offer. Great video, you should dive into what brands reach out to you for sponsorships and their offerings.
The handy thing about ordering from a Nigerian website is that you dont have to bother entering your bank or card details as they probably already have them!!
Klarna: allowing anyone to TRACK me even MORE than they already do? My purchases - and actually ANYthing I'm seeing in my browser??? Nope, dude. No way!!!
The intros and little skits you've started doing are edited excellently and are very distinct to your channel and not an imitation of what other watch vloggers are doing. Very entertaining. Loved the video overall too, really well put together.
Hello Ben, I have to admit that these fashion brand watch detective stories are not my preferred content but you really pulled this off. The video skills with all the effects are so cool and really made a funny story out of it. Well done, hoping for some reviews of better watches with all these cool effects.
Glad you did the homework to find out the bullshit, pity these people don’t do the right thing and spend there time and efforts in trying to design something unique to them and approach watch manufacturers and start somewhere genuine , instead of trying to bullshit people , cheers shane uk 🇬🇧
That's a lot of work for some people who want to get rich quickly. They are businessmen not watch enthusiasts. Fortunately, there are some new watch brands that do it right.
Busted. Some high hopes but then back to reality. I'm actually pretty sure I've seen the same model or very similar on AliExpress. Shame really, looks like another company that can't be arsed to design their own stuff and take the easy route. Oh well, another flash in the pan. Awesome video as always mate
@@asorockwatches6076 what do you mean by. 'it is the same that our factory makes but we changed materials to higher standards'!???? You are digging your own grave there!
@@asorockwatches6076 hi there. They will never understand how hard it is to build a brand from the ground up, or create a product from a scratch. I’ve built a 8 figure brand from ground up and now designing my own watches and selling them for $1-2k. Yes I was dropshipping when I first started. But that’s how you learn things along the way. Like I said, people will find a way to throw mud on you, and they’ll never understand the struggle. I am sure you’ll soon start designing your own watches too in a few years and it’ll all worth the grind. Good luck.
FWIW, the "upside down" strap is the OEM default in some places. I sometimes prefer to have the flap on the inside, leaving a cleaner look on the outside.
You know, I'd be willing to forgive similar brands if they just cut the lies and attempts to scam us. Just tell us, "Hey, we think we can make a profitable business rebranding cheap Chinese watches, and we think you should buy one".... ok, then again that might be a tad too honest 😅😅
Love your content Ben. Is there any Casios that have a sweeping seconds hand movement? Love Casios but also love a sweeping second hand :) Bought an A168 from your recommendation videos and never looked back.
Maybe the middlemen that these companies cut out are actually Nigerian princes and/or Generals? It would explain why they need to liquidate some assets, just to pay the bills. Won't someone please think of the Nigerian princes!
Thank you for maintaining your morals and keeping your standards high. This is one place I know I can go and get the truth. I know you won't be bought off or sold out!! Thank you for keeping your integrity intact and giving us a home for honest, real reviews.
A great review which highlights a number of issues. Many micro brands are nothing more than an attempt to dress up a fashion watch, at least at the lower cost end of the market, and sell it at a higher cost after rebranding. It is far safer to stick with well known brands such as Seiko, Citizen, Orient and other better value mainstream brands which actually have excellent movements and build quality.
Ben please review indian watch maker TITAN it is the biggest brand in india ... And one of the biggest in the world .....16 million watches sold per year ..!!
Thank you for this video. I hope they watched this and learned to do their homework before approaching someone with an ambassador offer. Looks like I will have to continue waiting for an Africa-based brand that has any horological significance.
Hey Ben. While I think that they're probably drop shipping, I'm familiar with s person who worked with a Chinese manufacturer on an original design watch with bracelet, and after he was sent a prototype, that bracelet was found being used on other watches that company made for other brands. I've seen the same thing in a few other situations. Basically, someone has a design, pays the company to make it, the company now has all the tooling and have no design and engineering costs, so they can continue to make the product for free under a different brand.
Oh man, imagine how cool it would be to have a genuine African brand watch inspired by all the different cultures and nature. That shit would sell out INSTANTLY.
Another Alibaba dropship watches. They just keep doing the same thing expecting a different result. Ridiculous! It's disappointing knowing Chinese brand watches like Pagani Design, Cadisen and Steeldive offering decent value for money compared to this scam dropship watches.
Really entertaining video as usual Ben! Nice detective work too! All the classic red flags for these kinds of companies🤣 Kudos to them for dropping a surprisingly genuine comment here in the comments tho.
You have to love how their logo is close to the Acoustic Research speaker logo AR also. At least it reminds me of it. Seems these companies change things slightly just to try to subliminally play into your feelings of hey I remember that company being good quality.
Asrorock, Talley & Twine, Verdure, and Benson all have the same business model of using their status of being "black owned" watch brands to appeal to their target demographics. There's nothing wrong with this however the problem is advertising themselves as "luxury" when in reality it's mass produced Chinese Alibaba watches with an absurd pricetag, and using only their status to appeal to buyers who don't know any better. On top of that, they rely on paying media outlets like Forbes or GQ, or Kickstarter campaigns to advertise their watches as well as emphasize the whole "Black owned" watch brands crap. At least be original and have QUALITY in your watches instead of relying on appealing to race to sell watches. Vaer, Shinola, and Chris Ward certainly didn't need to do any of that to get the growth they did.
I thought those watches they made will represent African cultures more, like hands shaped like sword/spear native uses or exotic green/sandy dial representing the landscape of that continent
I enjoy watching Bens videos . I'm not a watch enthusiast or expert owning only a few well loved Seiko,s. However hear are a few thoughts directed towards the watch community. 1. Why the obsession with packaging? You don't wear a box on you wrist . This just seems like a consumer fetish. 2. Design aesthetics. I'm not sure sure if Ben has a background in design. His vocabulary suggests he doesn't. So the amount of time projecting his own "taste preferences" seems odd. There are many beautifully designed watches out there and some real ugly monsters. The attractive ones follow tried and tested design methods. In the end it doesn't matter because the watch has to make you happy. 3. Wrist presence? The affect something has on your wrist has little impact in the world. Nobody cares. You could be wearing a beautiful watch and an ugly pair of shoes,what do you think is going to be noticed first? Your watch isn't going to be noticed if the cuff of a cheap sweater is riding over its surface. Style runs from head to toe, it's all has to balance itself together. 4. Casio. I've owned one Casio. Yes, value for money, durability. Yes , yes, yes. But when you put one on, doesn't your heart just sink a little bit ? 5. Criticisms aside, we'll done Ben, your videos always seem sincere and I look forward to the next one.
Great exposé Ben, love your videos. Btw, I know that this may sound silly, but... Have you considered "selling your own" watches? Or somehow custom-making your own, and selling them? Or partnering with someone? I understand that the market is not lacking in options, but many of the options aren't great. And can be very overpriced. Besides, you seem to understand what important features a watch should have, while not forgetting about the price AND vaue that you're getting from it.
Great videos as always mate. Really love your style and way of humour, you are hilarious! And those glam shots of the watches.. oh. But I do have one question.... How long are you gonna keep teasing us with that chronograph... Will we ever get a standalone review for it? I like your videos better even if other TH-camrs had beaten you in the past by releasing the same watch first. Really looking forward to it. Keep up the good work!
The sad thing--I'd kill for a field watch with the famous acacia tree on the dial, and earth tones. Nigeria is a little removed from the safari thing, but so are some African Americans from Africa as a whole
I remember seeing this guys before when I was trying to build a collection that included 1 watch from every continent. Sad to see they're just another sketchy fashion brand. Guess my collection will never be complete.
@10:03 you say "There don't appear to be any major quality control issues" and then a few seconds later you can see the second hand completely miss the 5 o'clock index!
I actually really like the look. 199 dollars is a scam tho. Go get a kamasu at that price point. Edit just saw the aliexpress part. Fuck those scammers
I actually just saw that exact same metal Apple watch case on Aliexpress a couple of hours before this video went live. IIRC one can be had for around $45. I'm sure wholesale prices are much cheaper.
🤣🤣🤣 and Ben has done it again seeing 🐃💩 for what it is 🤣🤣 👏👏👏 this channel should have more subs seriously ben keep it up I'm loving the content 🤙👌⌚but I really cant wear a ben 10 size watch excuse the pun #Ben but I'll spend better else wear 🤙🤣⌚👌
Hey have you ever heard about D1MILANO? Its a company which produces royal oak/nautilus homages but with a seems nice quality. It would be interesting if you made a review about them.
subbed - it doesnt take much effort to see the worth of watches like this but many people will fall for it - if you want a luxury watch and asked to pay 200 bucks, well then the only way its luxury is to yourself - its the same with die cast models, CMC and EXOTO are on a different universe to say Maisto or Bburago and it takes a collector only photos to tell the difference between them
African luxury watch??? I thought you were going to show a stick stuck vertically in the ground which tells the time by the length and direction of the shadow it casts. Junk product from Nigeria, everyone shouted in unison.
I actually own a Monolith which I bought below the $100 mark. The customer service was actually… impressive. Dutch customs were acting up and they refunded the money instantly. And told me they would sent another watch for free, and they did. I havent seen the monolith anywhere else (seems to be somewhat their original design) also I knew what I was buying because they stated all the watch components on the website. Now I hope you do more original designs (if any of them are) and never skim out on your customers. Everyone has to start somewhere. Keep hustling and stop the copy 😄
Just lovely to see that they will build libraries from watch sales proceeds in villages (in undisclosed locations). My gut tells me this will probably finance a couple of Caddy Escalades.
Such a bummer! I love collecting watches from around the world. I would love to get a watch from an African nation! The most obscure one I have as of yet is an HMT from India. Not the best watch, but it is the real deal.
@sudipta gupta The one I do have is probably not authentic, but I keep my eyes peeled on Chrono 24 to find a model that really strikes me, so I can have a real one. I love the company's story!
@@mdunawaym hmt is like vostok watches of India. They have an official website too , though have a horrible ui(as expected from a previous state owned company). Presently, former employees run the company, with whatever parts and machines they have. Sad story of a giant who refused to adopt with time 😔
For at least $20 less in the U.S. you could buy the octagonal Casio "Oak" sapphire solar 10 BAR 9.7 mm thick (5634) from a US. seller. It would, however, lack the phony "Africa" ploy and pretend moon phase dial.
(10.23) For a person who does alot of research you really think that a 54 country continent has only one "African marketed watch brand " The audacity of your ignorance is simply remarkable. Especially sporting that dashing haircut.
The irony is that the first watch to be manufactured in Africa is probably going to come from a factory built there and run by the Chinese, looking for even cheaper labor. They're already doing it with textiles.
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Hallo Ben, funny enough the smart watch case looks nearly identical to the one from our good friends at Daniel Wellington;)
Was already using Klarna, but I clicked your link to install the browser extension, hopefully that gets you a kickback. ;)
@@asorockwatches6076 If that's true then here's an idea for a future video. Comparing materials between products.
Either way the fact that a company is making the exact same product just with "better" materials is not good either, especially given the fact that the price tag still doesn't justify the "upgrade"
Ben please review TITAN watches
They are the biggest brand in india
@@asorockwatches6076 I’m glad you’re admitting your designs aren’t original, but your advertising doesn’t reflect that at all. If you were to change your advertising, to market something more honest like “upgraded watches,” and not go all the way out on the “carefully designed premium luxury” branch, you might get a bit more respect from the watch community.
The watch reaches 60 seconds every time a minute passes. That's how premium it is.
Every 60 second in Africa a minute passes, together we can stop this happening
- Big Man Tyrone
I get the reference
Meme reference perfection
That's how you know it's from Africa
Now that's a great comment
Each watch has been worn for exactly 69 seconds on the wrist of a genuine Nigerian prince. That explains the premium price.
Him? I already gave him 100 thousand dollars to get out of jail, what did he do this time?
Hey you know what when the son of the disposed king of Nigeria asks for a price, you pay it, okay? His father ran the freaking country
😂😂😂
did you know Hollywood has a real Nigerian princess? Its real
@@asorockwatches6076 And of course shipping anything as expensive as a watch through an African post office almost guarantees it's disappearance before it arrives at the customer!
That anti scratch resistant metal is a huge selling point.
yeah had to do a double take when he said that....
Atleast they're honest
Official watch brand of the Prince of Nigeria.
Which one? There are thousands of them.
Big admirer of the craft behind this video . This is such a great example of how to make a video with a story that keeps you watching from a subject which could have so easily just been an unboxing. Well impressed!
@@asorockwatches6076 9 times out 10 people who purchase luxury watches care about the company and their back catalog. Why do you think heritage is a thing. His review of the company as a whole is relevant to the audience he is producing his content for. With 100s of micro brands popping up each year, getting to know the brand and the little nuance differences between them is vital. Think squale, steinhart, pagani and Invicta all make sub homages. Eh, whatever
I actually absolutely lost interest during the boring intro😅
Then it became an ad.
Absolutely terrible delivery
Didn't even make it to the watch in the first few minutes. 🤣🤣🤣
Love how Ben is never too shy to take on watch brands.
Nice seeing someone with the guts to stand up for consumers rights.
Man, I'd love to see his takes on more expensive pieces. I know, I know. It goes against the rules of his channel. But I love the way he presents. Good job, Ben.
Ben is great. Other channels, like Theodore Bulbasaur, never take the Swiss watch industry’s dick out of their mouth.
I wouldn't really call them "brands" they are more like pop up scams that slap a name on a generic watch. Nothing more than the ring scams one would find in any tourist area of a major city.
It is the typical story. A new microbrand will contract out the production of a watch from a factory in China who do almost all the work for a low price. Then, there is the emotionally manipulative and misleading sentimental story meant to hook us and override out better judgement. So a couple of Africans living permanently in the US have some watches designed and made in China from generic stock, and suddenly it becomes...an "African watch", despite the fact that no one actually in Africa actually had anything to do with it. I am sure that they will sell more than a few based on this back story....just like the othes.
I've been contacted by them like a year and a half ago and never went thru with it.
Caveman Watches are a better story for African watch brands. Entrepreneur in Ghana, he's pretty open about parts coming from China but does assembly in Africa. Quality doesn't look half bad, either.
The fact they are based in Africa already makes them more African.
Interesting. Will definitely look into these
I'm impressed with their "erotica" watch :D
I just checked them out, that Zebra Woodpecker watch is kind of dope ngl
Certainly. A lot of the Swiss luxury brands do share tons of components, but what differentiates them into luxury territory is the effort put into it, as well as the heritage. You can certainly make a luxury watch w/o the heritage, but you have to put in the effort. Design, finishing, movement modifications, attention to details that nobody will see.
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Clearly Spaghetti Scammeti has started a revolution in the watch industry, and everyone wants on the gravy train!
Imagine if a "brand" was actually copying Scametti. It would be the best review ever on this channel
Not when its a turd!
"Anti-scratch-resistant." Nice, my Vostok has that technology on it's crystal! It scratches so good!
well it should scratch well if it says "Anti-scratch-resistant." Next time buy a "scratch-resistant." watch may be ?
@@itguy7336 But I want it to scratch, makes it look like I actually do things! "That big ding on the case? Yeah, I got that climbing El Capitan, totally didn't happen walking into the garage!"
@@Hrethgir good for you.
Never heard of antimatter have you. Better beware of that anti-scratch!
Designed in US, made in Japan (probably assembled in China) and sold by Chinese whole sellers. Is there any room for the fair trade policy mentioned?
Nice one chief inspector Ben. The world needs more watch superheroes like you 🦸♂️(I do disagree with one thing, that apple cover looks awful)
That requires work ethic and honesty which is an alien concept to these kind of scoundrels.
Terrific video Ben, your honesty, thoroughness and morality/ethics for your own brand is exemplary, don't ever change this. Definitely one of THE best watch YT'bers for these reasons and your unique style and you are always evolving/improving/trying new things. Brilliant Sir. Stay safe, Ben
100% not normal behavior for us in the states. Incredibly expensive for what they’re offering. The Megir provides a better offer. Great video, you should dive into what brands reach out to you for sponsorships and their offerings.
The handy thing about ordering from a Nigerian website is that you dont have to bother entering your bank or card details as they probably already have them!!
And as a gift you may receive $47mil from some dead uncle
Not necessary bruh! I actually dont know whether to laugh or frown at that.
@@Mart77 from Nigerian prince.
Kinda racist
@@jerren4493 Just plain stupid really.
Klarna: allowing anyone to TRACK me even MORE than they already do? My purchases - and actually ANYthing I'm seeing in my browser??? Nope, dude. No way!!!
Ben, they're from Nigeria! What do you expect! I have a bank account there with over $1 billion in it, just waiting for me to pick up.
You too thought I was being scammed. I no better now thanks for that mate
LoL 😂
The intros and little skits you've started doing are edited excellently and are very distinct to your channel and not an imitation of what other watch vloggers are doing. Very entertaining. Loved the video overall too, really well put together.
Hello Ben, I have to admit that these fashion brand watch detective stories are not my preferred content but you really pulled this off. The video skills with all the effects are so cool and really made a funny story out of it. Well done, hoping for some reviews of better watches with all these cool effects.
You are more than a watch review channel, you’re a proper investigative watch journalist. Keep exposing those greedy con men! 👌👏👏👏
Glad you did the homework to find out the bullshit, pity these people don’t do the right thing and spend there time and efforts in trying to design something unique to them and approach watch manufacturers and start somewhere genuine , instead of trying to bullshit people , cheers shane uk 🇬🇧
That's a lot of work for some people who want to get rich quickly. They are businessmen not watch enthusiasts. Fortunately, there are some new watch brands that do it right.
THIS IS YET ANOTHER REASON WHY YOURE THE BEST WATCH TH-camR! ❤️❤️ absolutely blimmin BRILLIANT VIDEO BEN! I loved every second of this.
Busted. Some high hopes but then back to reality. I'm actually pretty sure I've seen the same model or very similar on AliExpress. Shame really, looks like another company that can't be arsed to design their own stuff and take the easy route. Oh well, another flash in the pan. Awesome video as always mate
@@asorockwatches6076 what do you mean by.
'it is the same that our factory makes but we changed materials to higher standards'!????
You are digging your own grave there!
@@asorockwatches6076 hi there. They will never understand how hard it is to build a brand from the ground up, or create a product from a scratch. I’ve built a 8 figure brand from ground up and now designing my own watches and selling them for $1-2k. Yes I was dropshipping when I first started. But that’s how you learn things along the way. Like I said, people will find a way to throw mud on you, and they’ll never understand the struggle. I am sure you’ll soon start designing your own watches too in a few years and it’ll all worth the grind. Good luck.
FWIW, the "upside down" strap is the OEM default in some places. I sometimes prefer to have the flap on the inside, leaving a cleaner look on the outside.
Better comfort, too (depending on the watch and how you wear it).
You know, I'd be willing to forgive similar brands if they just cut the lies and attempts to scam us. Just tell us, "Hey, we think we can make a profitable business rebranding cheap Chinese watches, and we think you should buy one".... ok, then again that might be a tad too honest 😅😅
Love your content Ben. Is there any Casios that have a sweeping seconds hand movement? Love Casios but also love a sweeping second hand :)
Bought an A168 from your recommendation videos and never looked back.
Maybe the middlemen that these companies cut out are actually Nigerian princes and/or Generals?
It would explain why they need to liquidate some assets, just to pay the bills.
Won't someone please think of the Nigerian princes!
It's the same watch as the D1 Milano, which has been out for quite some years. I remember also finding that one available on Alibaba
Every 60 seconds in Africa, a minute passes.
Did i miss something
Thank you for maintaining your morals and keeping your standards high. This is one place I know I can go and get the truth. I know you won't be bought off or sold out!!
Thank you for keeping your integrity intact and giving us a home for honest, real reviews.
Erm ... ANTI-scratch-resistant? What??? It attracts scratches or what does this mean?
I think I already end the video here.
There’s a unhappy Nigerian prince because you wouldn’t become a rep
A great review which highlights a number of issues. Many micro brands are nothing more than an attempt to dress up a fashion watch, at least at the lower cost end of the market, and sell it at a higher cost after rebranding. It is far safer to stick with well known brands such as Seiko, Citizen, Orient and other better value mainstream brands which actually have excellent movements and build quality.
Ben please review indian watch maker TITAN it is the biggest brand in india ... And one of the biggest in the world .....16 million watches sold per year ..!!
A faithful African watch, unfortunately.
Thank you for this video. I hope they watched this and learned to do their homework before approaching someone with an ambassador offer. Looks like I will have to continue waiting for an Africa-based brand that has any horological significance.
What do you mean by "horological significance"? Self-made movement?
Because there are horologically trustworthy African brands with swiss movements.
@@Crispiboi oh, that's good to know! Which brands are you referring to?
dude your channel blew up, and the quality is different (in a good way) and feels more professional and in touch. props.
Hey Ben. While I think that they're probably drop shipping, I'm familiar with s person who worked with a Chinese manufacturer on an original design watch with bracelet, and after he was sent a prototype, that bracelet was found being used on other watches that company made for other brands. I've seen the same thing in a few other situations. Basically, someone has a design, pays the company to make it, the company now has all the tooling and have no design and engineering costs, so they can continue to make the product for free under a different brand.
That's how they roll, man!
Was watching one of your videos I have missed and asked myself when the next upload will be. Can't get disappointed.
Amazing video, so well made and excellent research into the products. I like how you debunked their claims. Well done! I am a fan!
Oh man, imagine how cool it would be to have a genuine African brand watch inspired by all the different cultures and nature.
That shit would sell out INSTANTLY.
Yeah, in Kinshasa at a flea market, maybe.
Africa has no history with watches. It would only appeal to Africa enthusiasts who love watches, which can't be a large demographic...
Another Alibaba dropship watches. They just keep doing the same thing expecting a different result. Ridiculous! It's disappointing knowing Chinese brand watches like Pagani Design, Cadisen and Steeldive offering decent value for money compared to this scam dropship watches.
Honestly if someone called me and said they had a African luxury watch company I would think the person on the phone was a Nigerian scammer
Really entertaining video as usual Ben! Nice detective work too! All the classic red flags for these kinds of companies🤣 Kudos to them for dropping a surprisingly genuine comment here in the comments tho.
Spokesman: "Let's hear what the streets have to say."
Video: Interviews people on upper floor of an office building, far from an actual street.
You have to love how their logo is close to the Acoustic Research speaker logo AR also. At least it reminds me of it. Seems these companies change things slightly just to try to subliminally play into your feelings of hey I remember that company being good quality.
Totally! 99% identical.
I guess they never bothered to watch any of your videos. 🤣
Kinda funny to hear “Africa’s first luxury watch” when Africa is a WHOLE continent, that’s like saying Europe’s first luxury car… 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Great job doing the research instead of just buying the story. Shows how much you care
Asrorock, Talley & Twine, Verdure, and Benson all have the same business model of using their status of being "black owned" watch brands to appeal to their target demographics. There's nothing wrong with this however the problem is advertising themselves as "luxury" when in reality it's mass produced Chinese Alibaba watches with an absurd pricetag, and using only their status to appeal to buyers who don't know any better. On top of that, they rely on paying media outlets like Forbes or GQ, or Kickstarter campaigns to advertise their watches as well as emphasize the whole "Black owned" watch brands crap. At least be original and have QUALITY in your watches instead of relying on appealing to race to sell watches.
Vaer, Shinola, and Chris Ward certainly didn't need to do any of that to get the growth they did.
oh
Some people wish to practice group economics.
Why is thst an issue?
I thought those watches they made will represent African cultures more, like hands shaped like sword/spear native uses or exotic green/sandy dial representing the landscape of that continent
or, the face of a cannibal with a bone through his nose...
@@horationelson57 Your ignorance and Racism is disgusting
African culture? You think all Africans are one and the same people? Wow... ignorance is truly bliss
@@leftsidem5030 damn, I forgot to add s to culture
@@8zzzzzd79 🤔 ..s! Words fail me.
Little fun fact: the picture on their website of the "hand wound movement" is actually a picture of a A. Lange&Söhne Chronograph
The watch detective strikes again! Great work man.
I enjoy watching Bens videos . I'm not a watch enthusiast or expert owning only a few well loved Seiko,s. However hear are a few thoughts directed towards the watch community.
1. Why the obsession with packaging? You don't wear a box on you wrist . This just seems like a consumer fetish.
2. Design aesthetics. I'm not sure sure if Ben has a background in design. His vocabulary suggests he doesn't. So the amount of time projecting his own "taste preferences" seems odd. There are many beautifully designed watches out there and some real ugly monsters. The attractive ones follow tried and tested design methods. In the end it doesn't matter because the watch has to make you happy.
3. Wrist presence? The affect something has on your wrist has little impact in the world. Nobody cares. You could be wearing a beautiful watch and an ugly pair of shoes,what do you think is going to be noticed first? Your watch isn't going to be noticed if the cuff of a cheap sweater is riding over its surface. Style runs from head to toe, it's all has to balance itself together.
4. Casio. I've owned one Casio. Yes, value for money, durability. Yes , yes, yes. But when you put one on, doesn't your heart just sink a little bit ?
5. Criticisms aside, we'll done Ben, your videos always seem sincere and I look forward to the next one.
Great exposé Ben, love your videos. Btw, I know that this may sound silly, but... Have you considered "selling your own" watches? Or somehow custom-making your own, and selling them? Or partnering with someone? I understand that the market is not lacking in options, but many of the options aren't great. And can be very overpriced. Besides, you seem to understand what important features a watch should have, while not forgetting about the price AND vaue that you're getting from it.
Check out spaghètti kamètti
I have no doubt Spaghetti Scameti would be wildly successful!
@@EEE_MMM As a meme watch, I have no doubt :)
@@EEE_MMM I'd unironically buy a Spaghetti Scameti
Awesome video Ben! I live your style and the way you present the story. I just think it's so engaging! Keep up the fantastic work
Ha ha, they were trying to be sneaky 🤣...I love how creative your videos are
What a shame. I was looking forward to something different. Too bad it's just another scam. Thanks for another great video Ben.
Great videos as always mate. Really love your style and way of humour, you are hilarious! And those glam shots of the watches.. oh. But I do have one question.... How long are you gonna keep teasing us with that chronograph... Will we ever get a standalone review for it? I like your videos better even if other TH-camrs had beaten you in the past by releasing the same watch first. Really looking forward to it. Keep up the good work!
The sad thing--I'd kill for a field watch with the famous acacia tree on the dial, and earth tones.
Nigeria is a little removed from the safari thing, but so are some African Americans from Africa as a whole
I remember seeing this guys before when I was trying to build a collection that included 1 watch from every continent. Sad to see they're just another sketchy fashion brand. Guess my collection will never be complete.
What a shame. It would be awesome to see a genuine African microbrand with some African design cues. Instead, we get Vincero (South).
Oh China, what WON'T you copy????
@10:03 you say "There don't appear to be any major quality control issues" and then a few seconds later you can see the second hand completely miss the 5 o'clock index!
The 100 pieces limited edition run had me dying😭😭😭😭
Great vid, and i appreciate your integrity and honesty, Ben. Fast becoming one of my favourite watch channels for sure.
I actually really like the look. 199 dollars is a scam tho. Go get a kamasu at that price point.
Edit just saw the aliexpress part. Fuck those scammers
From a South African, great bust bruv, keep up the good work.
You have so much talent. I loved your presentation in this video and your humor. 10/10. You are going places.
I actually just saw that exact same metal Apple watch case on Aliexpress a couple of hours before this video went live. IIRC one can be had for around $45. I'm sure wholesale prices are much cheaper.
Bought mine for 26usd
🤣🤣🤣 and Ben has done it again seeing 🐃💩 for what it is 🤣🤣 👏👏👏 this channel should have more subs seriously ben keep it up I'm loving the content 🤙👌⌚but I really cant wear a ben 10 size watch excuse the pun #Ben but I'll spend better else wear 🤙🤣⌚👌
its a scam.
Hey have you ever heard about D1MILANO? Its a company which produces royal oak/nautilus homages but with a seems nice quality. It would be interesting if you made a review about them.
subbed - it doesnt take much effort to see the worth of watches like this but many people will fall for it - if you want a luxury watch and asked to pay 200 bucks, well then the only way its luxury is to yourself - its the same with die cast models, CMC and EXOTO are on a different universe to say Maisto or Bburago and it takes a collector only photos to tell the difference between them
Wakonda could clean up in the watch market. Vibranium watch dials or lume? Yes, please.
Did an image search and found dozens of models identical to the "transporter" but with different dials, seems to be the same with all their models
I have probably too many hobbies, but tbh one thing unites them all, and that is the use of that groovy ass song from around 9:27. Good choice
Ben, you are the GOAT! Don’t ever stop exposing scammers.
New year, new nationality priding its "heritage" on drop shipped watches 😂
We wuz horologists n sheeeeit!
Better entertainment than almost anything on Netflix, with better production values.
Excellent!
These guys would have troubles putting a working broom together, let alone a watch.
Honestly all these “watch brands” copy luxury watch brand designs so technically none of them are even original in the first place.
African luxury watch???
I thought you were going to show a stick stuck vertically in the ground which tells the time by the length and direction of the shadow it casts.
Junk product from Nigeria, everyone shouted in unison.
Oh man, that was savage.
I actually own a Monolith which I bought below the $100 mark. The customer service was actually… impressive. Dutch customs were acting up and they refunded the money instantly. And told me they would sent another watch for free, and they did.
I havent seen the monolith anywhere else (seems to be somewhat their original design) also I knew what I was buying because they stated all the watch components on the website.
Now I hope you do more original designs (if any of them are) and never skim out on your customers. Everyone has to start somewhere. Keep hustling and stop the copy 😄
Just lovely to see that they will build libraries from watch sales proceeds in villages (in undisclosed locations). My gut tells me this will probably finance a couple of Caddy Escalades.
Such a bummer! I love collecting watches from around the world. I would love to get a watch from an African nation! The most obscure one I have as of yet is an HMT from India. Not the best watch, but it is the real deal.
@sudipta gupta The one I do have is probably not authentic, but I keep my eyes peeled on Chrono 24 to find a model that really strikes me, so I can have a real one. I love the company's story!
@@mdunawaym hmt is like vostok watches of India. They have an official website too , though have a horrible ui(as expected from a previous state owned company). Presently, former employees run the company, with whatever parts and machines they have. Sad story of a giant who refused to adopt with time 😔
luxury watches "from Africa, but made in China" ... let me hock my Vacheron Constantin and get one of these.. (or 500)
Spaghetti....Scametti.
i always remember the fake African prince who supposedly funded a formula 1 team.
For at least $20 less in the U.S. you could buy the octagonal Casio "Oak" sapphire solar 10 BAR 9.7 mm thick (5634) from a US. seller. It would, however, lack the phony "Africa" ploy and pretend moon phase dial.
Outstanding video Ben, and I applaud you for doing the research and having the fortitude to inform all of us. Brilliant my friend 👏
(10.23) For a person who does alot of research you really think that a 54 country continent has only one "African marketed watch brand " The audacity of your ignorance is simply remarkable. Especially sporting that dashing haircut.
The irony is that the first watch to be manufactured in Africa is probably going to come from a factory built there and run by the Chinese, looking for even cheaper labor. They're already doing it with textiles.
African made watch 😂 seriously? Who would think of such a slogan? It’s as ridiculous as a Mongolian made champagne 😹😹😹😹
Shocker😂 or not so shocking really 🤔 what a bunch of *#"+5 😂🤣🤯🔫😩 great video 🙂👍
Congratulations, Ben! You are no longer a watch TH-camr and have graduated to Investigative Journalist.