My grandfather was a first generation Chinese fighter pilot. He passed away a few years ago, and on some of his old pictures he was wearing an issued watch similar to this. Thanks for this video.
Because half of the world fought in WW2. My grandfather and all of his five brothers fought in WW2, and my other grandfather was in the Army during Korea but luckily didn't have to fight. I did a couple deployments to Iraq myself, then worked there for a few years as a security contractor. It's not uncommon for people, or their family members to serve in the military, especially during WW2, that's why they are known as the greatest generation. Stop being so cynical and go outside.
@@stuffofmylifeclassic guy who never saw combat and still thinks it’s “cool and badass.” All the vets I know who actually saw anything know better than to brag about it, and certainly wouldn’t hop into a comment section to yell at someone about how much better they are because they served.
One more note: This is an actual Chinese watch. Its proudly Chinese made. This is not a micro brand that claims to be Swiss made or USA made and most parts are Chinese..
I have three HMT watches proudly Indian made with the manual movement a copy of Citizen in the 1970s The parts were made in India. As you note with the Sea Gull, we know where these watches were built because they tell you so
Teddy never says it's a Swiss made watch or anything else you said, just that the movement is in many respects essentially a Venus 175. In other words, it's almost an identical copy of another movement, which happens to be Swedish.
The level of production is astonishing and photography puts to shame practically all other channels that have covered this exact timepiece. Not only am I impressed but I feel like I've seen the thing in an up close and personal fashion already. It's very nice to see the original movement, myself owning a variant with a big date and decentralized subdials.
I have had this watch for over 2 years now. For the price, it is an unbelievable value and lovable watch!! I have other high end watches but this one is amazing! I will never sell this watch unless I have to service. Then I will just replace it if it is still available. But for the dollars, WOW!!!! ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!
How long do you think the watch will last without needing servicing? Not many places in my country can service watches like this so that's what is preventing me from buying it
@@andres5724 that's the thing though as Teddy also mentioned: It's cheaper to buy a new watch or movement than to get it serviced, so I wouldn't worry about service when it comes to a Seagull
@@andres5724 The last time I had my Omega Speedmaster Reduced serviced, in 2011, it cost me more than a Seagull costs, and I got an amazing deal from an independent watchmaker.
The bottom line is this is just a GORGEOUS little watch with some cool history. Doesn't take thousands of dollars to put a little piece of horological joy on your wrist. If you put this in a line up with some of the heavy hitters costing thousands (with no brand markers on them) and let a non-watch person pick out their favorite... this watch would stack up. Yes, I own a sapphire version.
@Anthony Farrer you have to add a little bit of Chinese hate into this. Whats the matter with you. This is a channel for watch lovers. Leave your ignorant racist discrimination off this thread.
@Anthony Farrer It's actually 45 million who were murdered under Chairman Mao, but who's counting? Now the Chinese Communist Party commits genocide in Concentration Camps but again, now worries. What matters here is that you too can own this beautiful $300 mechanical watch with that stunning red star, symbolizing prosperity and wellness... among other things.
@@davidhunternyc1 I don't think wearing a Seagull is going to remind me of 45 million murdered during the Chinese civil war anymore than a Hamilton reminding me of the eradication of 90% of all Native North American population.
@@samsan3095 The red star is directly connected to Mao Zedong and his Red Army. A Hamilton watch is made in America but it is not associated with the genocide of the American Indian. China wants you to believe it's just fashion. They succeeded.
@@davidhunternyc1 Hamilton is one of the official supplier of pocket and later wristwatches for the government of the United States of America, which from the 18th century to the 19th century had an official policy of genocide against Native Americans and the practise of cultural genocide lasted until the 20th century. There is no point of trying to score a moral victory in regards to watches or cancel history. Japanese brands supplied the Imperial Army and German brands supplied the German Army in WWII. You could try to dig up dirt of a brand from the past, or just enjoy it.
I usually decide to buy a watch or not after watching Teddy's review video, but this watch is the first watch that I bought without watching any review at all and I didn't have any regret owning this watch. Beautiful👌
I own a Seagull 1963 and I have to say, it is an amazing little watch. One and a half years after I bought it, it is just +5 seconds per day, I actually got compliments from female co workers wearing this timepiece. Great review Teddy, the macro shots are incredible 😍
My friend gave one to me as a gift after his love for this watch saw him purchase FIVE different versions of it, when I was wearing it one day someone RECOGNIZED IT and gushed over it, a complete stranger. Haha
'compliments from [horny] coworkers' - that has nothing to do with the timepiece bro - that's just you exuding your essence sir & getting your due recognition.
I just received my 1963 from HKED; Champaign dial, brown leather strap, acrylic crystal and exhibition display back. Very elegant looking timepiece and fits my wrist well. Compared to my Citizen Eco Drive chrono, I don't even know that I'm wearing it. Doing a 24 hour break-in of the movement now as in running the chrono portion continuously to wear in the meshing of the teeth of the chrono drive. Very smooth movement of the hands and winding of the watch. Glad I paid a little more to HKED for this beauty. This goes into rotation with my vintage Poljot Sturmanskie, Hamilton 1974 military issue hack watch, Seiko 7T62 chronograph titanium 200 m, and a Casio G-Shock Multi Band 6. I repair pocket watches for fun and will be doing the servicing on my 1963 when it needs it. Excellent content, beautifully shot video, and a calm and rational host from my home state. Very well done, sir.
I bought the 40mm version almost a year ago. It is an absolute gem. It is not a Chinese knock off of a Swiss movement, it is the real thing made from the original Venus designs and tooling. Mine is running at about +6 sec./day. If you're fascinated by mechanical movements, then this watch is a great one to have.
This is a perfect introduction to a column wheel chronograph for any watch enthusiast. It's remarkable what they have been able to offer at this price point. The fact that it's reliable and keeps good time too, simply amazing.
This completely destroys the myth that the column wheel mechanism is very expensive to produce (that's what the Swiss would say to justify their ridiculous prices).
@@msbrownbeast although to be fair, this watch is the product of a focused, organized effort to streamline the production process of one very specific movement to the absolute limit. it's kind of expected that the seagull is gunna be dirt cheap.
@@hoennnoodle Yes, They are likely producing them by the thousands and taking advantage of the volume and low cost of labour in China. But what a great deal it it! I just received mine a few days ago. Totally thrilled.
@@msbrownbeast i agree that it's a good deal, just slightly unfair to point at it and say that other column wheel chronos are way overpriced. swiss-made ones might be overpriced, sure, but they probably weren't manufactured with industrial-level optimization in mind. it's like asking why a seiko automatic movement is dirt cheap compared to a hand-finished patek...
@@hoennnoodle True, the Swiss products are likely more precise, and obviously better finished. Also the namesake matters a lot. But from the point of view of value for the buyer, for the price of a typical service for a Swiss Chronograph (say a Valjoux 7750-based model, only a mid-end example), one can buy several of these Seagull watches. And the Seagull movements look great. No one buys these watches for fine horology, but if mine will last me 2 or 3 years, I would be super happy, and even if it breaks down before, that movement is still a wonder to behold. As for comparing Seiko to Patek (Oranges to Apples), I'm sure that the Grand Seiko products have at least as good (if not better) finishing and and certainly better precision than a similar Patek product and at a much lower price.
I've had one for 5 years, still performs well. Over my time owning it, it's gone from dead accurate to +7sec/day. It looks great on a brown stitched aviator's strap. I read a detailed tear down report on the movement by a watchmaker. The design is solid, but some examples may suffer from quality/contamination issues.
I'm very happy to hear this. I don't have a big budget to get a really nice watch with a beautiful movement. I want to buy this watching. Knowing it will last me at least 5 years while I save up for something more sustainable Is great.
@@Aztec1050 the main reason i never bought one. I want my watches to tell a story, but theres no way u can glitter a story about communist china and their new hypercapitalist way of making everything nowadays.
An alternative affordable chrono is the cam operated Poljot 3133 based on the Valjoux 7734 and the 31681 derivative with 24 hour complication. Equally interesting history and still available in places although supply of movements is gradually drying up as they are no longer in production. I've had an aviator version for a number of years now and it's an incredibly robust movement that still keeps accurate time despite never having been serviced.
I’ve always been a fan, but it feels like in the last couple of months you have gone from great to the best. In my book you make the best watch related material on TH-cam right now. Everything is well produced, the right length etc, but also just picking interesting topic and watch models over and over again. Really this is impressive
I love this watch. I have it for over two years now and no problems with it. I wear it quite often even had it on my trip to the Tatra mountains, wore it for two weeks strait, gave it some beating and it still coped very well. Thanks Teddy for the video it was quite informative.
Great quality and value has no room for prejudice. You put this Seagull chrono 1963 on my radar for sure. Thank you, Teddy, for a thorough and very respectable presentation. Btw, that intro music SWINGS brother! Keep up the great work.
Thank you Teddy for educating us on the rich history of this beautiful watch. The dial colorway is absolutely stunning and the movement is gorgeous for a watch in this price point. I am definitely adding this beauty to my collection.
Great review of a beautiful watch. You mentioned seeing what watch enthusiasts are wearing. The other day I took my grandkids to the zoo, here in Colorado Springs, and while sitting on a bench decided to do a little watch enthusiast observing myself. I decided to gauge just what percentage of people at the zoo were wearing watches, and what of what kind. This is wholly unscientific - simply anecdotal, of course. As far as I could tell, about one in twelve adults walking by was wearing some type of watch. In my first set of ten - I saw 1 sportswatch on a SS bracelet, 2 G-Shocks and 7 Apple watches. My second set of ten observed watches consisted of - 1 dress watch on a leather strap, 2 cheap quartz "designer" watches and (again) 7 Apple smart watches. The smart watches are definitely out there. The Omega Speedmaster on my wrist was pretty lonely that day... Needless to say, I do not think anyone noticed it. Am not a watch snob. Most of the time I wear my Casio Duro bought on Amazon. It was just a little experiment to kill some time.
Got one second hand on ebay. Love it. Pictures and video dont do it justice. There's a luster to the face that just doesn't photograph well. The contrast of the hands is beautiful against that gold background. Then there's the hours of turning the chrono on and off while staring at the movement. I'll pay whatever they want to fix it if it breaks. It's become one of my favorites in my collection.
@@JamilahCafe They’re available in acrylic or sapphire crystals; as near as I can tell the 19 zuan is acrylic and the 21 zuan are sapphire. The one I have is sapphire.
I was saving up for a Speedy a while ago, and instead I decided to get two different chronographs: this Seagull but with sapphire crystal, and a Yema Speedgraf featuring a Seiko NE86 automatic movement with a column wheel. That second one is a great way to get a high quality auto chronograph for under ~$1500 and I've seen it pop up in a few other watches.
I've aways wanted a speedy. Now for the mechanic chronograph I've got myself one of these and for the moon history, also closer to the looks of the speedy, the Bulova lunar pilot.
Speedys are kind of overrated to me. I believe in building a watch collection that you believe is cool and unique to you. Chances are, not a lot will know what is really on your wrist; most others will not appreciate the Omega quality. However, this watch and others like it (ones that you find cool and unique), will most likely get more compliments and just recognition in general than a generic Speedy. I guess it depends what you are trying to achieve: are you looking for a time piece to enhance how you look, or are you looking for recognition from a $6000 watch? Nothing wrong with either, whichever makes you feel more confident is what I would go with.
That shouldn’t be a surprise. If you wear this just for your pleasure don’t mind what other people think. But if you care about social image, let me tell you I think this watch is sh….t and I am sure most people will think the same
@@daniellee8162 unfortunately? WTF Mr Lee…human slavery, oppression, corporate espionage, oh this thing called COVID-19, 70 million massacred to form this “legendary watch country “ wake up Mr Lee
My son had this watch in his collection, along with a Tudor, Orvis, Hamilton, Omega, and a host of others. Whenever he would get his collection out, I couldn't keep my eyes off this watch. It is absolutely beautiful. He insisted that I have this watch so he gave it to me. I absolutely love it. It is an exceptional watch at any price.
This and the pt5000 are the most accurate Chinese made movements right now. Teddy is the most reliable and knowledgeable watch person on TH-cam really....
Teddy, thanks for the video. With respect to your question, I have a couple Vostoks, and probably will never get them serviced, but then again, with their suggested service interval, and my rotation, I suspect they may last 30 yrs or more in good condition. I have that luxury. If I was really concerned about servicing, I would buy another movement and if one of my Vostok watches packed a sad, I'd replace it. It's like all the micro brands with NH35 movements. Why service when you can replace? Now more expensive watches, luxury Swiss etc, then service makes sense.
LOVE my 1963. I dress it up on a leather strap and get compliments on it a lot. My wife says it's my favorite watch I own and has even borrowed it once!
...very impressive review! I sell this model now since over 12 years and I still learned some new things about this Chronograph thanks to this video - you never can stop learning :-) Go on with the good work!
I’ve been watching Teddy for awhile now and I’ve been back at this video, looking at the 1963 for the past 2 months before finally pulling the trigger. Can’t wait for it to reach me! Thanks Ted for finding this beauty
I have this watch. I don’t wear it all that often but I love it. It’s a great watch to show non watch people to introduce them to the beauty of mechanical watches. I know it’s a throw away piece but so what. The limited amount I wear it. It should last long enough that the annual ownership cost will be 30 or 40 dollars. I am ok with that. Great piece in the watch box for that
Thanks Teddy for this educational and inspiring video about Seagull St1901 and very helpful comments below too, it helped me pull the trigger for the first time to buy a Chinese watch, I purchased same movement ST1901 from Sugess company with an orange (salmon) dial. The watch is really beautiful as I can see the exactly same movement. Looking forward to having joyful experience with the watch.
I'm really glad you reviewed this, Teddy. I have one on order and am waiting for it with great anticipation. It has a gorgeous dial and is a true piece of horological history at a very attainable price.
Hi, I'm also planning to order one of these. With sapphire and swan neck but not sure from here to buy exactly. It seems there are a lot cake ones around..
I just got mine. I like it and want to keep the band on it, but it' seems super long. I have to tuck it under the last one backwards. What other bands might you suggest?
I have two of the sapphire crystal versions (an ordering error). Being a pilot I was initially attracted by their aviation history. I have a collection of Omegas and a Rolex but prefer to wear one of these incredible watches. The daily "driver" has the canvas strap and formal wear I use the one with a brown leather strap. Both are on par with my best Omega for accuracy. No scratches on the case or crystal after two years but had to have the secondhand remounted by a genuine Swiss watchmaker who normally only services high end watches who was impressed by the quality but suggested I no longer wear it when pounding engineering projects with a one pound hammer.
My watch was purchased 2 years ago from MAMACOO and, to this day, it still looks and runs as well as it did the day it arrived. That movement has never missed a beat despite never having been serviced. I can't complain about that.
Sea-gull is making one most true to the original which is a 38mm with a solid engraved case back and hesalite crystal. All other variants in 38mm and 42mm mostly with sapphire crystal and exhibition caseback are produced under license from Sea-gull by other manufacturers. A 40mm is also available with sapphire crystal and exhibition caseback, but this version seems to be produced by a manufacturer that has no license from Sea-gull.
yes u r right, on seagull's china official website this watch's price is around 650 usd, and it specifically mentioned the exhibition case back version is fake, the genuine watch has solid engraved case back.
@@godsimon could you please link the official website? I find on Amazon UK the watch available with display case back from Sugess but I don't understand if it is an homage or legit. Thank you in advance
Friend, i would like to let you know that China have 3 major manufacturers selling seagull 1963 except Seagull, 2 brand is athourized is 1 is FAKE First of all, by brand seagull, they have 3 limited model of 1963 before 38mm acrylic/ 7 words dial 中国天津手表厂/Soild caseback cover, nato band limited 5000 (all sold out) 38mm acrylic/ 7 words dial 中国天津手表厂/Soild caseback cover include independent number, black leather band limited 5500, it have QR for official webiste link as genuine (on sale and around usd500) 40mm 1962 (limited 650) Their 2 legal authorized is Sugess and Redstar (teddy video is redstar) Due to partnership relationships, sugess and redstar not made 100% same as seagull, specify they are not using 天津海鷗手表厂 this 7 words, they are using 中国天津 and 中國制造 with exhibition case back and they have swan neck version. Their movements is REAL and provide by Tian-jin SEA-GULL The fake one is a tina-jin seller, he use 7 words and brand as redstar or seagull, and it without QR code, that is fake and not athourized by sea-gull, the movement is not made by sea-gull Hope the you support sugess and redstar except the tianjin fake one
@@naitud When I lived in Shanghai form 2008-2018, I bought my 1963, original Sea-gull with solid engraved caseback and nato strap, somewhere in 2017 for ¥1770. Prices have risen ever since. I also bought a Redstar, one of the licensed manufacturers as mentioned by someone here, last year with a panda dial in 40mm using the same movement. Love both.
I can't imagine any daily need for a chrono stopwatch. None of the specialty chronos interest me either. But I love the look of this watch. Thanks for the history lesson and the explanation.
I have this watch, but did not realise how wonderful the movement was until I saw your stunning videography and heard your commentary. Well done and thank you.
Interesting that you chose to review the swan neck regulator version, which is a more recent update on the movement. 300 is a bit on the high side, look in the right place and these can be had for under 200.
Thank you for the unbiased review Teddy! I think Chinese watches may get a bad rap for making cheap Aliexpress watches but there are brands like Seagull that make excellent watches for the price.
My favorite 2024 is the Prospex Limited Edition 1965 Recreation European Exclusive in Gradation Island Blue. The dial is stunning and the contrast when on a white strap is to die for. I will get my hands on one from MAMACOO
I feel like holding the service costs against this watch is kind of a moot point. This watch costs around $300 and has the service cost of a watch ten times that, yes. But why does that matter unless you’re judging the watch as an investment as opposed to something you intend to keep? I can pay $3000 for a Logines chronograph and pay for expensive servicing, or I can pay $300 for a 1963 and pay the same servicing costs. I’m STILL up $2700, and hey, that money I saved can go into servicing costs! I feel like the only reason it bears mention at all, or should, is if you assume the buyer only likes the ‘63 because they CANT afford to buy or service a $3k watch. As a judgement of the watch itself though, the value gain on the price doesn’t go anywhere.
Love seeing how far you’ve come, Teddy! But still appreciate you touching on cult pieces like this and the Vostok. Also, I just got my first Zodiac bc of you!!!
I like the Seagull 1963, and I would definitely like to see more content on some of the obscure watches out on the market. I wish my wrists weren't so damn big to wear one, or I'd be buying a 1963 now. Thank you for making this video, and keep up the great content.
Nice to see you do a video on this watch, and learnt a few more things from your video. I bought this a while back to add to my collection, and it's a quirky little watch with a history, hence I had to get one. For the money it can't really be beaten for something with such a history.
@@Speed_7545 I’m sure your intentions are well, but what about all the components in the phone you just submitted this comment through? No offence intended but maybe pick your subjects to preach on 🤷♂️.
@@MaximumRes Yes, my phone is Chinese. However, what phone is not Chinese? There isn't a way to be productive in the modern world without a smartphone. However, when considering watches, there are plenty of options available that are not Chinese, therefore it's possible to make the choice of not supporting the CCP. Apples to oranges.
These can be made pretty cheaply because the tooling costs have been paid off for years. Venus sold the tooling and blueprints to the Chinese in the ‘60s as fully-depreciated assets. The Chinese have used the heck out of this tooling ever since. Any cost they paid to acquire the tooling has long since been recovered in terms of watches “sold” (hard to do this kind of accounting in a centrally planned economy!). When you see a watchmaker charge a premium for a watch with a bespoke in-house movement, a big part of that price premium is going to pay off the cost of literally making the tools to make the parts. Once those costs are paid, you either book higher profit margins or accept lower margins by dropping the price.
My in-laws got me my first "real watch" and it has spiraled me into the rabbit hole of starting a watch collection. I live in Shanghai, and will probably buy a Seagull 1963 22 Zuan. Thanks forthe video!
Thanks for visiting this frequently touted watch, Teddy. Clearly, there is variance in personal taste - but to my eyes, this is both a unique and quite a beautiful design - especially when you see it in real life. Value is a difficult concept to quantify in terms of watches - as they are so frequently aspirational - and this potentially adds to their respective attractions. However, I am sure many people who can afford something more ostentatious buy this watch because it has a history; they appreciate its aesthetics; maybe, feel they have joined a cognoscente of those who look past price tags and have no desire to impress others... One thing I woukd add -I have just left China after four years - and never-a-once witnessed a Chines person wearing this watch!
I bought a watch from AMZWATCH lightly used for my last milestone birthday. Don't wear it as much as it deserves, but not afraid to, either. It's stunning . Good taste, Sir.
It's a very pretty watch, I got myself one a year ago more or less, enjoying it every now and then, and creates many interesting conversations, people usually ask about, funny
Great video! I really enjoyed this one and the Amphibia one. I would love to see more videos like those two in the future. I find it more interesting to watch videos about these "gems" watches than the "regular" watch stuff that is all over the TH-cam. 🙂 From where did you get your watch? Any recommendations for places to buy one?
Is there consensus on what are the “correct“ hands for these sub-registers? In this video the left hand has a tail but the right one doesn’t. In other videos they are reversed. In others both hands have the tails, or neither of them have it. Thanks!
I live in Alaska and there have actually been a few people who have worn these out in the bush and have been saved. At least 1 for sure but I thought two. You can also get GPS emergy response watches for a few houndred at any sporting goods store for like 300-500 bucks. Cool idea and I think it’s a cool watch but the price is outrageous
I'm very tempted. I've got a Swiss watch, a Japanese watch, a Russian watch, guess I need a German and a Chinese now, especially an original Chinese watch that isn't a clone/copy/fake of another watch.
are you being a little bit biased your whole idea of copyright doesn't exactly apply in the watch world like in other places. besides the logo, many watches are homage "copies" of other watches... also for the movements, is a sellita sw200 less a clone of eta2800s than seagull st21s?
@@keny4281 I'm talking about something that might be similar, but different and not identical, and under its own name. Like this Seagull chrono, but not a Daytona superclone. I'm pretty sure you know what I meant, but if you didn't, that's what I meant.
@@Hrethgir ok I get you, a superclone is a definitely an infringement of copyright, and they are getting better and better in a scary way. not that I support superclone but still im often amazed by the quality of them, not something anyone can pull off, I just really wish they'd put all that skill into making their own brands, but the reality is that it's way easier to make a high quality watch than to establish a recognisable brand, therefore I really appreciate a brand like Seagull, just got a seagull tourbillion couple month ago, something I thought id never able to afford.
Bought one of these watches with sapphire glass and a caseback in 40 mm. Put it on a brown vintage Rios1931 leather strap. Love it so much. Powerreserve is meeh Water-resistance is close to non exsistant.. But the watch has character and charme like you wouldn't believe.
Had one, beautiful little watch. Sold it in the end because too small and preferred my posher pieces. Would definitely recommend one tho. Cheers Mate 👍🏻👍🏻
Got that exact one :) Only issue with this watch is there are some pieces, including mine, which have a missing part in the movement which results in the chronograph hand becoming disengaged and flailing loosely when depressing the pusher to start the stopwatch. Once the pusher clicks, it engages back and starts moving. This is a known defect according to some reviews. The problem occurs when the watch head is held with the dial vertical, but works fine when horizontal. Anyone here got that same issue?
I have a question, isn't the Official Seagull 1963 supposed to not have the mechanical part showing in the back (which I love anyway) but instead a regular plate with the 1963 logo? Also, isn't supposed to have 2 rows of Chinese lettering instead of only one showing in the video to be the Official version? Thank you
I bought one 3 months ago. I set it using the Universal coordinated time from the short wave radio. It is 12 seconds off after three months. I wear it every day and I work in manual labor so it gets knocked around alot. I just wind it every morning and enjoy the great time keeping. I am definitely not a watch snob as I usually wear Timex or Casio with the one Seiko. I just know excellent time keeping and this watch has it!
I watched like 20 videos from this channel already, you basically bought me with showing how ridiculous those Vincero and PL ads are. After gathering info from the channel I ordered an Orient Bambino II and a Seiko 5 as entry level watches since I want to quit having fashion watches such as Gant. Cannot be more excited ✌️
Great little watch…luv it. Ought mine a few years ago when they were a bit cheaper as I recall. But that’s okay…I think they are still worth the $300 they want now. I guess you can get them in larger sizes now and with a sapphire crystal..or is it mineral? Anyway, I stuck with the more authentic smaller size and crystal. There’s always Polywatch…😁
I recently started collecting watches again after many many years. This is the first watch I purchased. I don’t know exactly what it is I like but those blue hands and that dial face and those gold numerals and those bold pushers. I replaced the supplied nato strap with a vintage leather stitched strap. Mine forever.
Good Job I managed to find a new Sugess version of the 1963 watch for $150 with sapphire. I don't consider this a throw away watch but a a special occasion watch. I have plenty of Orient watch that fit the bill of a daily wear watch. Not to mention a couple of Casio beater watches for washing cars or yard work. Good overall review Ted how about reviewing the Hand wind only Russian Komandirskie military/field watches that go for $40-50 new? In general I would love to see more budget mechanical and automatic watch reviews.
Excellent review video! I would like to add that the philosophy of SeaGull is to achieve decent functionality and durability of watches, at the same time pushing the cost to the lowest possible limit. When SeaGull was established its goal was making affordable and decent quality watches for the vast majority of poor people. In fact, China-made barely started around 90's in global market, and is still largely associated with cheap/low quality tags. This is a good way to secure a niche in a very competitive market, as a company from a developing country. Each SeaGull watch earns very low profit for the company, but this strategy is a pragmatic when the higher level market is unattainable and dominated by Swiss-made watches. I am confident that SeaGull, same as some other Chinese manufacturers at the lower end now, will maintain this quality and steadily make progress in the future. Just keep the hard work on, then one day it will pay off.
I just put taju lizard strap from Rios on my now, opened YT and saw you made video about it. I have my for 2 years and ware it almost every day, man I have a lot of straps for it. One of my favorite watches
@@Andrew.W75 a San Martin will be of equal quality to either Gekota or Lorier as they pretty much come from the same factories with different branding. Same is true of Islander watches. That's not too say they're bad, it's just too say a lot of people don't realise how good quality a lot of Chinese timepieces are. I have a Seiko Presage homage by Reef Tiger that is easily of equal quality to Seiko. Don't forget Omega bracelets have been produced in China (bracelets don't make up a key aspect of what is required for the Swiss made mark). The only difference is quality control and finishing.
@@philipcarr6698 I meant to say better designed options with the same movement in, each to their own but I think the design of the Seagull is very 'communist' & not in a good way
this is my all time favorite watch and is the first watch i purchased and got me hooked on collecting. it is incredibly accurate and obviously well made and stunning in person.
I just received one from aliexpress, they had many different specs on size, plexiglass, sapphire, gooseneck regulator or without, lume or not lume. Went for the 38mm plexiglass, no lume no gooseneck, paid £90 and this was including shipping AND VAT into UK. Put it on the timegrapher and it says plus 12 sec, beat error 0.0 and amplitude read 347 with 52 lift angle, I assume lift angle is different so amplitude will be lower of course as 347 is too high. Fantastic performance and brilliant price for this column wheel chronograph, can’t believe how cheap it and how good it look for that price.
Every time I see a video of the watch I say to myself "why not, let's get one just for fun" and then for some reason I don't. After seeing your video and the macro shots maybe the time has come to actually do it. I bet this thing looks even better on a worn out vintage style leather strap.
The other day on my way back from Nam Hing I passed by a department store that is an AD for Seagull and I saw they even have tourbillons for about USD5,400 and I thought who'd drop 5K on this?! But now I wanna go back and see if they have the 1963!
@@TOKKANTE For a third of the price I'd buy a German/Chinese Manufaktur Waldhoff tourbillon. Are you familiar with them? 239 euro for a 1963 I could live with...just for fun. They even do a 40mm version but unfortunately only with sapphire and not plexiglass.
@@Maarten_official_account Im looking for a 38mm one with sapphire but the website that I saw it in are out and only have the acrylic version. Is the website you are using has the 38mm version in sapphire? Let me know man, thanks.
@@Maarten_official_account That's also what I feel, so I wanna check the 1963 here in HK to see how much it goes for. Didn't know Waldhoff, will check them out!
@@fungus_am0nguz644 check www.seagull1963.org (Belgium based, ship worldwide) or www.watchunique.com (Netherlands based, ship worldwide). They both are reseller of the original Seagull and have several versions available.
My grandfather was a first generation Chinese fighter pilot. He passed away a few years ago, and on some of his old pictures he was wearing an issued watch similar to this. Thanks for this video.
Love this watch!
@@TheHitmanAgent small pecker energy
Because half of the world fought in WW2. My grandfather and all of his five brothers fought in WW2, and my other grandfather was in the Army during Korea but luckily didn't have to fight. I did a couple deployments to Iraq myself, then worked there for a few years as a security contractor. It's not uncommon for people, or their family members to serve in the military, especially during WW2, that's why they are known as the greatest generation.
Stop being so cynical and go outside.
@@JohnSmith-gq1wl maybe get less frustrated bro, nobody asked about your deployments either but you shoved it in peoples faces.
@@stuffofmylifeclassic guy who never saw combat and still thinks it’s “cool and badass.” All the vets I know who actually saw anything know better than to brag about it, and certainly wouldn’t hop into a comment section to yell at someone about how much better they are because they served.
One more note: This is an actual Chinese watch. Its proudly Chinese made. This is not a micro brand that claims to be Swiss made or USA made and most parts are Chinese..
I have three HMT watches proudly Indian made with the manual movement a copy of Citizen in the 1970s The parts were made in India. As you note with the Sea Gull, we know where these watches were built because they tell you so
Teddy never says it's a Swiss made watch or anything else you said, just that the movement is in many respects essentially a Venus 175. In other words, it's almost an identical copy of another movement, which happens to be Swedish.
@@AI-iv4ui Swedish? Brah
@@AI-iv4ui No, Remember, the Swedish make meatballs and Volvos, the Swiss make watches.
@@prairiebhoy9199 just a random poor indian guy 🤣🤣🤣
The level of production is astonishing and photography puts to shame practically all other channels that have covered this exact timepiece. Not only am I impressed but I feel like I've seen the thing in an up close and personal fashion already. It's very nice to see the original movement, myself owning a variant with a big date and decentralized subdials.
I have had this watch for over 2 years now. For the price, it is an unbelievable value and lovable watch!! I have other high end watches but this one is amazing! I will never sell this watch unless I have to service. Then I will just replace it if it is still available. But for the dollars, WOW!!!! ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!
How long do you think the watch will last without needing servicing? Not many places in my country can service watches like this so that's what is preventing me from buying it
@@andres5724 I really don't know Andres. I have had it for 2 years now and still is keeping great time. For the price you can't beat this watch!
@@andres5724 that's the thing though as Teddy also mentioned: It's cheaper to buy a new watch or movement than to get it serviced, so I wouldn't worry about service when it comes to a Seagull
@@andres5724 The last time I had my Omega Speedmaster Reduced serviced, in 2011, it cost me more than a Seagull costs, and I got an amazing deal from an independent watchmaker.
how many hours do you get a wind
Finally! Seen a lot of other people cover this watch but No one does it like Teddy 👍
Appreciate it luke!
A deserved reward for what is delivered in this piece.
Agree ⌚
Where do I purchase it from so that Authenticity is guaranteed?
@@cengizyagiz2039 Ditto
The bottom line is this is just a GORGEOUS little watch with some cool history. Doesn't take thousands of dollars to put a little piece of horological joy on your wrist. If you put this in a line up with some of the heavy hitters costing thousands (with no brand markers on them) and let a non-watch person pick out their favorite... this watch would stack up. Yes, I own a sapphire version.
@Anthony Farrer you have to add a little bit of Chinese hate into this. Whats the matter with you. This is a channel for watch lovers. Leave your ignorant racist discrimination off this thread.
@Anthony Farrer It's actually 45 million who were murdered under Chairman Mao, but who's counting? Now the Chinese Communist Party commits genocide in Concentration Camps but again, now worries. What matters here is that you too can own this beautiful $300 mechanical watch with that stunning red star, symbolizing prosperity and wellness... among other things.
@@davidhunternyc1 I don't think wearing a Seagull is going to remind me of 45 million murdered during the Chinese civil war anymore than a Hamilton reminding me of the eradication of 90% of all Native North American population.
@@samsan3095 The red star is directly connected to Mao Zedong and his Red Army. A Hamilton watch is made in America but it is not associated with the genocide of the American Indian. China wants you to believe it's just fashion. They succeeded.
@@davidhunternyc1 Hamilton is one of the official supplier of pocket and later wristwatches for the government of the United States of America, which from the 18th century to the 19th century had an official policy of genocide against Native Americans and the practise of cultural genocide lasted until the 20th century.
There is no point of trying to score a moral victory in regards to watches or cancel history. Japanese brands supplied the Imperial Army and German brands supplied the German Army in WWII. You could try to dig up dirt of a brand from the past, or just enjoy it.
I usually decide to buy a watch or not after watching Teddy's review video, but this watch is the first watch that I bought without watching any review at all and I didn't have any regret owning this watch. Beautiful👌
I own a Seagull 1963 and I have to say, it is an amazing little watch. One and a half years after I bought it, it is just +5 seconds per day, I actually got compliments from female co workers wearing this timepiece. Great review Teddy, the macro shots are incredible 😍
My friend gave one to me as a gift after his love for this watch saw him purchase FIVE different versions of it, when I was wearing it one day someone RECOGNIZED IT and gushed over it, a complete stranger. Haha
are your female coworkers Chinese? lol
I couldnt agree more. Im am shocked at how accurate mine is and it looks fantastic.
'compliments from [horny] coworkers' - that has nothing to do with the timepiece bro - that's just you exuding your essence sir & getting your due recognition.
where did you find it?
I just received my 1963 from HKED; Champaign dial, brown leather strap, acrylic crystal and exhibition display back.
Very elegant looking timepiece and fits my wrist well. Compared to my Citizen Eco Drive chrono, I don't
even know that I'm wearing it.
Doing a 24 hour break-in of the movement now as in running the chrono portion continuously to wear in the
meshing of the teeth of the chrono drive. Very smooth movement of the hands and winding of the watch.
Glad I paid a little more to HKED for this beauty.
This goes into rotation with my vintage Poljot Sturmanskie, Hamilton 1974 military issue hack watch, Seiko 7T62
chronograph titanium 200 m, and a Casio G-Shock Multi Band 6.
I repair pocket watches for fun and will be doing the servicing on my 1963 when it needs it.
Excellent content, beautifully shot video, and a calm and rational host from my home state.
Very well done, sir.
I bought the 40mm version almost a year ago. It is an absolute gem. It is not a Chinese knock off of a Swiss movement, it is the real thing made from the original Venus designs and tooling. Mine is running at about +6 sec./day. If you're fascinated by mechanical movements, then this watch is a great one to have.
From where you get it ? What website?
Which website?
AliExpress
This is a perfect introduction to a column wheel chronograph for any watch enthusiast. It's remarkable what they have been able to offer at this price point. The fact that it's reliable and keeps good time too, simply amazing.
This completely destroys the myth that the column wheel mechanism is very expensive to produce (that's what the Swiss would say to justify their ridiculous prices).
@@msbrownbeast although to be fair, this watch is the product of a focused, organized effort to streamline the production process of one very specific movement to the absolute limit. it's kind of expected that the seagull is gunna be dirt cheap.
@@hoennnoodle Yes, They are likely producing them by the thousands and taking advantage of the volume and low cost of labour in China. But what a great deal it it! I just received mine a few days ago. Totally thrilled.
@@msbrownbeast i agree that it's a good deal, just slightly unfair to point at it and say that other column wheel chronos are way overpriced. swiss-made ones might be overpriced, sure, but they probably weren't manufactured with industrial-level optimization in mind. it's like asking why a seiko automatic movement is dirt cheap compared to a hand-finished patek...
@@hoennnoodle True, the Swiss products are likely more precise, and obviously better finished. Also the namesake matters a lot. But from the point of view of value for the buyer, for the price of a typical service for a Swiss Chronograph (say a Valjoux 7750-based model, only a mid-end example), one can buy several of these Seagull watches. And the Seagull movements look great. No one buys these watches for fine horology, but if mine will last me 2 or 3 years, I would be super happy, and even if it breaks down before, that movement is still a wonder to behold.
As for comparing Seiko to Patek (Oranges to Apples), I'm sure that the Grand Seiko products have at least as good (if not better) finishing and and certainly better precision than a similar Patek product and at a much lower price.
I've had one for 5 years, still performs well. Over my time owning it, it's gone from dead accurate to +7sec/day. It looks great on a brown stitched aviator's strap. I read a detailed tear down report on the movement by a watchmaker. The design is solid, but some examples may suffer from quality/contamination issues.
I'm very happy to hear this. I don't have a big budget to get a really nice watch with a beautiful movement. I want to buy this watching. Knowing it will last me at least 5 years while I save up for something more sustainable Is great.
where can I safely buy one ?
Do you have a source to support that claim?
Yes the design is from the Soviet, the production is done by using child labour
@@Aztec1050 the main reason i never bought one. I want my watches to tell a story, but theres no way u can glitter a story about communist china and their new hypercapitalist way of making everything nowadays.
An alternative affordable chrono is the cam operated Poljot 3133 based on the Valjoux 7734 and the 31681 derivative with 24 hour complication. Equally interesting history and still available in places although supply of movements is gradually drying up as they are no longer in production. I've had an aviator version for a number of years now and it's an incredibly robust movement that still keeps accurate time despite never having been serviced.
I’ve always been a fan, but it feels like in the last couple of months you have gone from great to the best. In my book you make the best watch related material on TH-cam right now. Everything is well produced, the right length etc, but also just picking interesting topic and watch models over and over again. Really this is impressive
I agree, for detailed information but not boring, Teddy is the best
Yeah, I search for his videos as they really are the best watch content unless I'm in the mood for an hour-long watch restoration.
I love this watch. I have it for over two years now and no problems with it. I wear it quite often even had it on my trip to the Tatra mountains, wore it for two weeks strait, gave it some beating and it still coped very well. Thanks Teddy for the video it was quite informative.
Cześć. Skąd go brałeś? Dużo "fake'owych" w sieci.
was wondering, if you remember, where you picked yours up?
Thanks to Teddy Baldassarre I bought the Seagull 1963 Acryl. Im really proud and happy. Thank you! Great stuff!
Nice. I'm about to get a sapphire version myself.
Great quality and value has no room for prejudice. You put this Seagull chrono 1963 on my radar for sure. Thank you, Teddy, for a thorough and very respectable presentation. Btw, that intro music SWINGS brother! Keep up the great work.
Thank you Teddy for educating us on the rich history of this beautiful watch. The dial colorway is absolutely stunning and the movement is gorgeous for a watch in this price point. I am definitely adding this beauty to my collection.
Great review of a beautiful watch. You mentioned seeing what watch enthusiasts are wearing. The other day I took my grandkids to the zoo, here in Colorado Springs, and while sitting on a bench decided to do a little watch enthusiast observing myself. I decided to gauge just what percentage of people at the zoo were wearing watches, and what of what kind. This is wholly unscientific - simply anecdotal, of course. As far as I could tell, about one in twelve adults walking by was wearing some type of watch. In my first set of ten - I saw
1 sportswatch on a SS bracelet,
2 G-Shocks and
7 Apple watches.
My second set of ten observed watches consisted of -
1 dress watch on a leather strap,
2 cheap quartz "designer" watches and (again)
7 Apple smart watches.
The smart watches are definitely out there. The Omega Speedmaster on my wrist was pretty lonely that day... Needless to say, I do not think anyone noticed it. Am not a watch snob. Most of the time I wear my Casio Duro bought on Amazon. It was just a little experiment to kill some time.
I would never have seriously considered this watch until seeing this particular review. What an interesting timepiece!
Got one second hand on ebay. Love it. Pictures and video dont do it justice. There's a luster to the face that just doesn't photograph well. The contrast of the hands is beautiful against that gold background. Then there's the hours of turning the chrono on and off while staring at the movement. I'll pay whatever they want to fix it if it breaks. It's become one of my favorites in my collection.
Yep, the champagne dial is amazing. You have to see it in person to appreciate how much it punches above its weight.
Did you buy the acrylic or crystal glass?
@@JamilahCafe They’re available in acrylic or sapphire crystals; as near as I can tell the 19 zuan is acrylic and the 21 zuan are sapphire. The one I have is sapphire.
Thats nice to hear. I ordered an acrylic one... Can't wait for it to arrive.
I was saving up for a Speedy a while ago, and instead I decided to get two different chronographs: this Seagull but with sapphire crystal, and a Yema Speedgraf featuring a Seiko NE86 automatic movement with a column wheel. That second one is a great way to get a high quality auto chronograph for under ~$1500 and I've seen it pop up in a few other watches.
I've aways wanted a speedy. Now for the mechanic chronograph I've got myself one of these and for the moon history, also closer to the looks of the speedy, the Bulova lunar pilot.
Speedys are kind of overrated to me. I believe in building a watch collection that you believe is cool and unique to you. Chances are, not a lot will know what is really on your wrist; most others will not appreciate the Omega quality. However, this watch and others like it (ones that you find cool and unique), will most likely get more compliments and just recognition in general than a generic Speedy. I guess it depends what you are trying to achieve: are you looking for a time piece to enhance how you look, or are you looking for recognition from a $6000 watch? Nothing wrong with either, whichever makes you feel more confident is what I would go with.
People give me strange looks when I show them this watch. I'm so glad you reviewed this and have brought it into the spotlight!
They have no clue about the history of the watch. It's a legendary watch.
Probably has something to do with current politics...unfortunately.
That shouldn’t be a surprise. If you wear this just for your pleasure don’t mind what other people think. But if you care about social image, let me tell you I think this watch is sh….t and I am sure most people will think the same
Cuz you a commie!
.. I'm just messing with you.
@@daniellee8162 unfortunately? WTF Mr Lee…human slavery, oppression, corporate espionage, oh this thing called COVID-19, 70 million massacred to form this “legendary watch country “ wake up Mr Lee
Thanks, Teddy. I have never been a big chronograph fan, but now I am actually tempted.
I bought the 'Sugess' 40mm with this movement. What a beauty! 👌🏾
My son had this watch in his collection, along with a Tudor, Orvis, Hamilton, Omega, and a host of others. Whenever he would get his collection out, I couldn't keep my eyes off this watch. It is absolutely beautiful. He insisted that I have this watch so he gave it to me. I absolutely love it. It is an exceptional watch at any price.
thats nice
I've had this watch in hand when I bought it for a friend. Absolutely amazing, still considering to get it myself
This and the pt5000 are the most accurate Chinese made movements right now. Teddy is the most reliable and knowledgeable watch person on TH-cam really....
Teddy, thanks for the video. With respect to your question, I have a couple Vostoks, and probably will never get them serviced, but then again, with their suggested service interval, and my rotation, I suspect they may last 30 yrs or more in good condition. I have that luxury. If I was really concerned about servicing, I would buy another movement and if one of my Vostok watches packed a sad, I'd replace it. It's like all the micro brands with NH35 movements. Why service when you can replace? Now more expensive watches, luxury Swiss etc, then service makes sense.
And this is why your channel is so great. You’re as likely to review the best from Patek as you are a $400 watch like this one.
I think I might be one of the very few Chinese fans. I never thought that you will talk about this watch. But you did it! I am so glad!!!
Amazing Watch that finally gets the mainstream recognition it deserves!
LOVE my 1963. I dress it up on a leather strap and get compliments on it a lot. My wife says it's my favorite watch I own and has even borrowed it once!
I appreciate that your channel will bounce from grail watches to ones anyone could buy if they wanted.
I'm so glad you've reviewed this!
Picked up the new 38mm black edition recently and I'm absolutely thrilled I took the plunge. Fabulous watch!
...very impressive review! I sell this model now since over 12 years and I still learned some new things about this Chronograph thanks to this video - you never can stop learning :-) Go on with the good work!
I bought one from you. Still working great. Thank you 👍
I’ve been watching Teddy for awhile now and I’ve been back at this video, looking at the 1963 for the past 2 months before finally pulling the trigger. Can’t wait for it to reach me! Thanks Ted for finding this beauty
I have this watch. I don’t wear it all that often but I love it. It’s a great watch to show non watch people to introduce them to the beauty of mechanical watches. I know it’s a throw away piece but so what. The limited amount I wear it. It should last long enough that the annual ownership cost will be 30 or 40 dollars. I am ok with that. Great piece in the watch box for that
Glad to see this watch featured in your channel. It deserved it.
I have my eye on one of these. I like the retro/military vibe of it.
I own one and i really love it
Waited years for this, thank you!
Also thanks for the Vostok review! (My first and currently only auto)
Thanks Teddy for this educational and inspiring video about Seagull St1901 and very helpful comments below too, it helped me pull the trigger for the first time to buy a Chinese watch, I purchased same movement ST1901 from Sugess company with an orange (salmon) dial. The watch is really beautiful as I can see the exactly same movement. Looking forward to having joyful experience with the watch.
Hi there, after one year, how you would describe the overall experience with the watch?
I'm really glad you reviewed this, Teddy. I have one on order and am waiting for it with great anticipation. It has a gorgeous dial and is a true piece of horological history at a very attainable price.
Hi, I'm also planning to order one of these. With sapphire and swan neck but not sure from here to buy exactly. It seems there are a lot cake ones around..
I just got mine. I like it and want to keep the band on it, but it' seems super long. I have to tuck it under the last one backwards. What other bands might you suggest?
I think I answered my own question. Seems the video shows folks tucking it like I'm doing.
I have two of the sapphire crystal versions (an ordering error). Being a pilot I was initially attracted by their aviation history. I have a collection of Omegas and a Rolex but prefer to wear one of these incredible watches. The daily "driver" has the canvas strap and formal wear I use the one with a brown leather strap. Both are on par with my best Omega for accuracy. No scratches on the case or crystal after two years but had to have the secondhand remounted by a genuine Swiss watchmaker who normally only services high end watches who was impressed by the quality but suggested I no longer wear it when pounding engineering projects with a one pound hammer.
where did you buy it? could you provide links?
My watch was purchased 2 years ago from MAMACOO and, to this day, it still looks and runs as well as it did the day it arrived. That movement has never missed a beat despite never having been serviced. I can't complain about that.
I have a sapphire crystal version of it, and I absolutely love it. The dial, and hands are far nicer in person that photos capture.
Im looking to get one, could you tell me which website you got it from? Thanks.
Where plz
I was born in 1963 and was given one of these watches as a birthday present from my wife last year. Love the watch.
Sea-gull is making one most true to the original which is a 38mm with a solid engraved case back and hesalite crystal. All other variants in 38mm and 42mm mostly with sapphire crystal and exhibition caseback are produced under license from Sea-gull by other manufacturers. A 40mm is also available with sapphire crystal and exhibition caseback, but this version seems to be produced by a manufacturer that has no license from Sea-gull.
yes u r right, on seagull's china official website this watch's price is around 650 usd, and it specifically mentioned the exhibition case back version is fake, the genuine watch has solid engraved case back.
@@godsimon could you please link the official website? I find on Amazon UK the watch available with display case back from Sugess but I don't understand if it is an homage or legit. Thank you in advance
I went 38, but with a open back, just to be vaguely original, like buying 40mm Fleigers, the size is one of the design elements imho.
Friend, i would like to let you know that China have 3 major manufacturers selling seagull 1963 except Seagull, 2 brand is athourized is 1 is FAKE
First of all, by brand seagull, they have 3 limited model of 1963 before
38mm acrylic/ 7 words dial 中国天津手表厂/Soild caseback cover, nato band limited 5000 (all sold out)
38mm acrylic/ 7 words dial 中国天津手表厂/Soild caseback cover include independent number, black leather band limited 5500, it have QR for official webiste link as genuine (on sale and around usd500)
40mm 1962 (limited 650)
Their 2 legal authorized is
Sugess and Redstar (teddy video is redstar)
Due to partnership relationships, sugess and redstar not made 100% same as seagull, specify they are not using 天津海鷗手表厂 this 7 words, they are using 中国天津 and 中國制造 with exhibition case back and they have swan neck version. Their movements is REAL and provide by Tian-jin SEA-GULL
The fake one is a tina-jin seller, he use 7 words and brand as redstar or seagull, and it without QR code, that is fake and not athourized by sea-gull, the movement is not made by sea-gull
Hope the you support sugess and redstar except the tianjin fake one
@@naitud When I lived in Shanghai form 2008-2018, I bought my 1963, original Sea-gull with solid engraved caseback and nato strap, somewhere in 2017 for ¥1770. Prices have risen ever since. I also bought a Redstar, one of the licensed manufacturers as mentioned by someone here, last year with a panda dial in 40mm using the same movement. Love both.
Just picked up a Sugess with this exact movement...I love the movement, the dial, the strap, everything! It's a phenomenal watch!
I can't imagine any daily need for a chrono stopwatch. None of the specialty chronos interest me either. But I love the look of this watch. Thanks for the history lesson and the explanation.
I have this watch, but did not realise how wonderful the movement was until I saw your stunning videography and heard your commentary. Well done and thank you.
You're part of the reason I love collecting watches. Love the content Teddy, keep doing your thing bro.
Appreciate it, my friend! Thanks for watching.
Great episode! I have an Alpina Alpiner Chrono that I bought used for $700. Great value for money.
I love mine and it's very accurate. I did however swap the strap for a leather racing strap.
Interesting that you chose to review the swan neck regulator version, which is a more recent update on the movement. 300 is a bit on the high side, look in the right place and these can be had for under 200.
Just ordered mine for 190! 🙏🏼
You've given a completely new and classy perspective, huge fan😍
Thank you for the unbiased review Teddy! I think Chinese watches may get a bad rap for making cheap Aliexpress watches but there are brands like Seagull that make excellent watches for the price.
where do you buy a real one
Where can I buy a a real one?
My favorite 2024 is the Prospex Limited Edition 1965 Recreation European Exclusive in Gradation Island Blue. The dial is stunning and the contrast when on a white strap is to die for. I will get my hands on one from MAMACOO
I love mine, very cheap for a mechanical chrono and looks great and classy on a mesh strap. Keeps decent time too, AND it's not copying anyone.
What a review! A masterclass in damning with faint praise.
I feel like holding the service costs against this watch is kind of a moot point. This watch costs around $300 and has the service cost of a watch ten times that, yes. But why does that matter unless you’re judging the watch as an investment as opposed to something you intend to keep? I can pay $3000 for a Logines chronograph and pay for expensive servicing, or I can pay $300 for a 1963 and pay the same servicing costs. I’m STILL up $2700, and hey, that money I saved can go into servicing costs!
I feel like the only reason it bears mention at all, or should, is if you assume the buyer only likes the ‘63 because they CANT afford to buy or service a $3k watch. As a judgement of the watch itself though, the value gain on the price doesn’t go anywhere.
If it breaks, the repair cost $300... and I mean, buying another one 😂 so who cares, it is an awesome watch and looks amazing!
Can you review the Steel Dive 1970 homage of the Willard. Crazy Specs for the money and getting very popular
Love seeing how far you’ve come, Teddy! But still appreciate you touching on cult pieces like this and the Vostok.
Also, I just got my first Zodiac bc of you!!!
Rich
Thank you for making high quality videos!Love AMZWATCH ’s watches
I like the Seagull 1963, and I would definitely like to see more content on some of the obscure watches out on the market. I wish my wrists weren't so damn big to wear one, or I'd be buying a 1963 now. Thank you for making this video, and keep up the great content.
Nice to see you do a video on this watch, and learnt a few more things from your video. I bought this a while back to add to my collection, and it's a quirky little watch with a history, hence I had to get one. For the money it can't really be beaten for something with such a history.
It is crazy that such a complex mechanism can be sold at this price. Great watch for the money with interesting history and something of its own.
Yeah, but money is still flowing to the hands of the chinese government when you purchase one. No thanks.
@@Speed_7545 I’m sure your intentions are well, but what about all the components in the phone you just submitted this comment through? No offence intended but maybe pick your subjects to preach on 🤷♂️.
@@MaximumRes Yes, my phone is Chinese. However, what phone is not Chinese? There isn't a way to be productive in the modern world without a smartphone.
However, when considering watches, there are plenty of options available that are not Chinese, therefore it's possible to make the choice of not supporting the CCP.
Apples to oranges.
@@Speed_7545 import a phone from India
These can be made pretty cheaply because the tooling costs have been paid off for years. Venus sold the tooling and blueprints to the Chinese in the ‘60s as fully-depreciated assets. The Chinese have used the heck out of this tooling ever since. Any cost they paid to acquire the tooling has long since been recovered in terms of watches “sold” (hard to do this kind of accounting in a centrally planned economy!).
When you see a watchmaker charge a premium for a watch with a bespoke in-house movement, a big part of that price premium is going to pay off the cost of literally making the tools to make the parts. Once those costs are paid, you either book higher profit margins or accept lower margins by dropping the price.
My in-laws got me my first "real watch" and it has spiraled me into the rabbit hole of starting a watch collection. I live in Shanghai, and will probably buy a Seagull 1963 22 Zuan.
Thanks forthe video!
Thanks for visiting this frequently touted watch, Teddy. Clearly, there is variance in personal taste - but to my eyes, this is both a unique and quite a beautiful design - especially when you see it in real life. Value is a difficult concept to quantify in terms of watches - as they are so frequently aspirational - and this potentially adds to their respective attractions. However, I am sure many people who can afford something more ostentatious buy this watch because it has a history; they appreciate its aesthetics; maybe, feel they have joined a cognoscente of those who look past price tags and have no desire to impress others... One thing I woukd add -I have just left China after four years - and never-a-once witnessed a Chines person wearing this watch!
I am living in Russia and I didn't see russian persons wearing Vostok! Except watches fans like me!))
Chinese would buy a cheap quartz watch.....to save MONEY...haha
I bought a watch from AMZWATCH lightly used for my last milestone birthday. Don't wear it as much as it deserves, but not afraid to, either. It's stunning . Good taste, Sir.
It's a very pretty watch, I got myself one a year ago more or less, enjoying it every now and then, and creates many interesting conversations, people usually ask about, funny
This afternoon I pulled the trigger on a 38mm with sapphire version. Thanks for a good review.
Great video! I really enjoyed this one and the Amphibia one. I would love to see more videos like those two in the future. I find it more interesting to watch videos about these "gems" watches than the "regular" watch stuff that is all over the TH-cam. 🙂
From where did you get your watch? Any recommendations for places to buy one?
i got mine the 40mm panda version, and still working nicely for almost a year now
I own this piece and I love it :) It's part of what I call my "Popcorn" watches - watches that aren't very valuable but are enjoyable to own
Is there consensus on what are the “correct“ hands for these sub-registers? In this video the left hand has a tail but the right one doesn’t. In other videos they are reversed. In others both hands have the tails, or neither of them have it. Thanks!
Could you take a look at the Breitling Emergency? I think it would be interesting to get an enthusiast perspective on a $16,000, quartz watch.
I live in Alaska and there have actually been a few people who have worn these out in the bush and have been saved. At least 1 for sure but I thought two. You can also get GPS emergy response watches for a few houndred at any sporting goods store for like 300-500 bucks.
Cool idea and I think it’s a cool watch but the price is outrageous
Thank you for finally covering this piece and I look forward to your reviews of similar
I'm very tempted. I've got a Swiss watch, a Japanese watch, a Russian watch, guess I need a German and a Chinese now, especially an original Chinese watch that isn't a clone/copy/fake of another watch.
are you being a little bit biased
your whole idea of copyright doesn't exactly apply in the watch world like in other places.
besides the logo, many watches are homage "copies" of other watches...
also for the movements, is a sellita sw200 less a clone of eta2800s than seagull st21s?
@@keny4281 I'm talking about something that might be similar, but different and not identical, and under its own name. Like this Seagull chrono, but not a Daytona superclone. I'm pretty sure you know what I meant, but if you didn't, that's what I meant.
@@Hrethgir ok I get you, a superclone is a definitely an infringement of copyright, and they are getting better and better in a scary way.
not that I support superclone but still im often amazed by the quality of them, not something anyone can pull off, I just really wish they'd put all that skill into making their own brands, but the reality is that it's way easier to make a high quality watch than to establish a recognisable brand, therefore I really appreciate a brand like Seagull, just got a seagull tourbillion couple month ago, something I thought id never able to afford.
@@keny4281 That's another Seagull that has my attention, probably the only way I could ever afford a tourbillon. What do you think of it?
@@Hrethgir worth every penny of it
Bought one of these watches with sapphire glass and a caseback in 40 mm.
Put it on a brown vintage Rios1931 leather strap.
Love it so much.
Powerreserve is meeh
Water-resistance is close to non exsistant..
But the watch has character and charme like you wouldn't believe.
Had one, beautiful little watch. Sold it in the end because too small and preferred my posher pieces. Would definitely recommend one tho.
Cheers Mate 👍🏻👍🏻
Ordered one! Thanks Teddy. Can't wait to see it on person. Cheers!
Got that exact one :) Only issue with this watch is there are some pieces, including mine, which have a missing part in the movement which results in the chronograph hand becoming disengaged and flailing loosely when depressing the pusher to start the stopwatch. Once the pusher clicks, it engages back and starts moving. This is a known defect according to some reviews. The problem occurs when the watch head is held with the dial vertical, but works fine when horizontal. Anyone here got that same issue?
I have a question, isn't the Official Seagull 1963 supposed to not have the mechanical part showing in the back (which I love anyway) but instead a regular plate with the 1963 logo?
Also, isn't supposed to have 2 rows of Chinese lettering instead of only one showing in the video to be the Official version?
Thank you
Would be interesting to see some coverage on some other 'proper' Chinese watchmakers such as Shanghai.
I bought one 3 months ago. I set it using the Universal coordinated time from the short wave radio. It is 12 seconds off after three months. I wear it every day and I work in manual labor so it gets knocked around alot. I just wind it every morning and enjoy the great time keeping. I am definitely not a watch snob as I usually wear Timex or Casio with the one Seiko. I just know excellent time keeping and this watch has it!
I watched like 20 videos from this channel already, you basically bought me with showing how ridiculous those Vincero and PL ads are. After gathering info from the channel I ordered an Orient Bambino II and a Seiko 5 as entry level watches since I want to quit having fashion watches such as Gant. Cannot be more excited ✌️
This is going to be my next chrono. Will have to figure out which one to get. Original from Sea-gull or one of the midnight specials from Ali Express.
Great little watch…luv it. Ought mine a few years ago when they were a bit cheaper as I recall. But that’s okay…I think they are still worth the $300 they want now. I guess you can get them in larger sizes now and with a sapphire crystal..or is it mineral? Anyway, I stuck with the more authentic smaller size and crystal. There’s always Polywatch…😁
I recently started collecting watches again after many many years.
This is the first watch I purchased. I don’t know exactly what it is I
like but those blue hands and that dial face and those gold numerals and
those bold pushers. I replaced the supplied nato strap with a vintage leather stitched strap.
Mine forever.
I own this watch and it is one of my favorites.
Good Job I managed to find a new Sugess version of the 1963 watch for $150 with sapphire. I don't consider this a throw away watch but a a special occasion watch. I have plenty of Orient watch that fit the bill of a daily wear watch. Not to mention a couple of Casio beater watches for washing cars or yard work. Good overall review Ted how about reviewing the Hand wind only Russian Komandirskie military/field watches that go for $40-50 new? In general I would love to see more budget mechanical and automatic watch reviews.
Excellent review video! I would like to add that the philosophy of SeaGull is to achieve decent functionality and durability of watches, at the same time pushing the cost to the lowest possible limit. When SeaGull was established its goal was making affordable and decent quality watches for the vast majority of poor people. In fact, China-made barely started around 90's in global market, and is still largely associated with cheap/low quality tags. This is a good way to secure a niche in a very competitive market, as a company from a developing country. Each SeaGull watch earns very low profit for the company, but this strategy is a pragmatic when the higher level market is unattainable and dominated by Swiss-made watches. I am confident that SeaGull, same as some other Chinese manufacturers at the lower end now, will maintain this quality and steadily make progress in the future. Just keep the hard work on, then one day it will pay off.
I just put taju lizard strap from Rios on my now, opened YT and saw you made video about it. I have my for 2 years and ware it almost every day, man I have a lot of straps for it. One of my favorite watches
Damn you Teddy -- I bought two Vostoks after your other vid, and now I want a 1963 too!
You won't regret it!
There are better options from brands like Geckota & Lorier that have the same movement in them
@@Andrew.W75Having owned one, I beg to differ. Especially as Lorier produce and case their watches in China anyway.
@@Andrew.W75 a San Martin will be of equal quality to either Gekota or Lorier as they pretty much come from the same factories with different branding. Same is true of Islander watches. That's not too say they're bad, it's just too say a lot of people don't realise how good quality a lot of Chinese timepieces are.
I have a Seiko Presage homage by Reef Tiger that is easily of equal quality to Seiko.
Don't forget Omega bracelets have been produced in China (bracelets don't make up a key aspect of what is required for the Swiss made mark). The only difference is quality control and finishing.
@@philipcarr6698 I meant to say better designed options with the same movement in, each to their own but I think the design of the Seagull is very 'communist' & not in a good way
this is my all time favorite watch and is the first watch i purchased and got me hooked on collecting. it is incredibly accurate and obviously well made and stunning in person.
I just received one from aliexpress, they had many different specs on size, plexiglass, sapphire, gooseneck regulator or without, lume or not lume. Went for the 38mm plexiglass, no lume no gooseneck, paid £90 and this was including shipping AND VAT into UK. Put it on the timegrapher and it says plus 12 sec, beat error 0.0 and amplitude read 347 with 52 lift angle, I assume lift angle is different so amplitude will be lower of course as 347 is too high. Fantastic performance and brilliant price for this column wheel chronograph, can’t believe how cheap it and how good it look for that price.
Every time I see a video of the watch I say to myself "why not, let's get one just for fun" and then for some reason I don't. After seeing your video and the macro shots maybe the time has come to actually do it. I bet this thing looks even better on a worn out vintage style leather strap.
The other day on my way back from Nam Hing I passed by a department store that is an AD for Seagull and I saw they even have tourbillons for about USD5,400 and I thought who'd drop 5K on this?! But now I wanna go back and see if they have the 1963!
@@TOKKANTE For a third of the price I'd buy a German/Chinese Manufaktur Waldhoff tourbillon. Are you familiar with them? 239 euro for a 1963 I could live with...just for fun. They even do a 40mm version but unfortunately only with sapphire and not plexiglass.
@@Maarten_official_account Im looking for a 38mm one with sapphire but the website that I saw it in are out and only have the acrylic version. Is the website you are using has the 38mm version in sapphire? Let me know man, thanks.
@@Maarten_official_account That's also what I feel, so I wanna check the 1963 here in HK to see how much it goes for. Didn't know Waldhoff, will check them out!
@@fungus_am0nguz644 check www.seagull1963.org (Belgium based, ship worldwide) or www.watchunique.com (Netherlands based, ship worldwide). They both are reseller of the original Seagull and have several versions available.