7 Different Watches 7 Different Reasons - Homages better than luxury Grail Watches
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 พ.ย. 2024
- Thanks for WATCHing my video about 7 of my watches. Each watch I believe is better than the watches they are homaging and each for a different reason.
Thank you so much for WATCHing my video and I hope that you check out all my other content.
I release 3 videos per week, all watch related, including reviews, first impressions and general watch related topics.
I try very hard to diversify my content as well and will feature big known watch brands, microbrands as well as Aliexpress watches.
The majority of the watches I feature are in the affordable range but I do try and get some less affordable watches as well.
Most of the watches that I feature I have bought with my own money. I buy them to enjoy and wear but I also to feature them on this channel.
Being a smaller channel it is challenging to cover the cost of all the watches that I buy and partly because of this I have become an affiliate member with a number of companies including Aliexpress, Ashford.com and Jomashop.
If you are looking for watches from well known brands then it is worth checking out:
www.ashford.com
www.jomashop.com
As an affiliate member I may leave affiliate links in the descriptions of videos. These links will direct you to the watches that I’ve experienced, reviewed and would certainly recommend. If you choose to use those links I will earn a very small commission.
Thank you very much if you choose to use those links.
Below are affiliate links for my absolute favorite watches on Aliexpress. Each of them I have owned and had positive experiences with the stores that they are linked to.
San Martin SN004-G (my favorite San Martin Watch):
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Berny AM038M (The best super affordable mechanical watch):
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Or the Berny railway homage:
s.click.aliexp...
Tactical Frog H5 (Simply stunning):
s.click.aliexp...
Escapement Time Type-B Flieger H0292 (Incredible. So well made and a joy to wear):
s.click.aliexp...
Or the Chrono Quartz alternative that is super affordable (Escapement Time):
s.click.aliexp...
Gustav Becker (This one surprised me how much I love it):
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Hruodland Turbine Pilot (The best watch on Aliexpress…… yes I said it):
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This watch goes out of stock a lot so if it’s not available at that store then check this one out:
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RMALTI Grand GMT Homage featuring the Seiko NH34:
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SEESTERN: SE2021-OO2DOXA V2 (well made and a great homage):
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My favourite engineered bracelet (I use mine all the time):
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Cronos Sub Homage with the PT5000 (so well made):
s.click.aliexp...
SEAGULL 1963 (It is so loved for very good reasons):
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Pagani Design Pilot Watch PD-YS003 (hands down my favorite Pagani Design watch):
s.click.aliexp...
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Let's be honest. There's no such thing as a grail anything. As soon as we have something we want something else - especially if you have a collector's (mindset/disease) . The thrill is in the anticipation of something. The actual joy of owning something very quickly dissipates.
It really is a big part of the collecting experience.
Having this channel is partly to fulfil that role for me. Gives me more reasons to research and search out nice watches.
Sadly true
Can vouch 1🎯🎯% spot on.
After months of lusting after one and saving, I finally threw down for a personal "grail" - the Sinn 104 I St Sa A (grey sunburst on H-link). It's awesome, I love it, (edit- wearing it now) but immediately the next anticipated purchase was... A Steeldive Murph clomage from AliX, then the titanium mod kit for my Casio DW5610U, then a (second) Proxima PX1697 skindiver homage, then...
So it goes. 💸💸💸
@@hgr.7857 HGR!!! holy smokes!! There is a titanium mod kit for the DW5610? You're killing me!
A true collector will appreciate and love what he collects. If your mindset is what you have written, then you're just collecting things to fill a hole in your life. Stop, and try to figure out what the void is that you're trying to compensate for. Material items will not provide what's really missing for you.
Honestly, most people I run into are wearing digitals or smart watches anyway. The few who are wear traditional watches often feel awkward talking about their watches. In my opinion, you are buying traditional watches to make yourself happy. So buy what you like - for me I like variety and I watch a well made watch so, considering my meager budget for this hobby, I am squarely in the Homage category.
I have the same experience. Everyone has a Apple Watch, a fashion watch or a gshock.
It’s almost a surprise when I see something different on someone’s wrist.
@@WATCHingJamesTotally Agree guys.
When Rolex or other Trinity brands homage another brand, it's not even copying, much less homaging n when lesser known brands create better value specs at way more affordable prices, then they are copying or homaging... 😂😂
How many watches Actually went to the moon?
Those reissues that came after, are they not simply Copies of the original?
Every Brand has copied or homaged another ever since the beginning of horology...
So I've Never believed in all that marketing Crap that they used to justify the high price tags...
Long story or not.
Fact - microbrands provide Wayyy better specs n quality n value n...
Great Watches don't have to come with even Greater price tags. Period.
I don't class digitals and smart watches as anything like the same. Smart watches are really wrist computers usually worn by people who have no interest in watches, whereas digitals have a worthy history in horology. Just look at the great brands who have offered digitals at some point - Hamilton, Seiko, Casio, Omega & Tissot to name a few.
@@andromedagodit2492I totally agree. I love my Christopher Ward Atoll 300 and Steinhart Ocean 39 Adventure Classic. I have neither the money or inclination to chase the ‘status symbol’ brands!
You are absolutely right in all your examples! I have another example for you. I was so into an Omega Seamaster. So I bought an hommage with nearly the same dimensions. After wearing it for three days I had to say: Omega, we will be no partners . Nice vid, thanks for that 👍👍👍
It is a great idea to give yourself that trial before you buy.
I’ve had the same experience with other watches too.
I agree entirely, i am fine with homages, no worry about if they get bump here and there, and they do the job of keeping time just fine, and money left over for more purchases if so desired.
Exactly. Thanks Paul.
I am with you 1000%
I have a homage collection, still good quality and I enjoy wearing every one of them.
I have other things that I enjoy so I spend my money on them.
I am not in a position to spend big money on a grail watch. I then wouldn’t be able to enjoy my other hobbies.
It’s like making love to a woman, some are expensive and some are cheap, it always feels great though.🤣
Hahahahahaha. Oh no 😂😂😂.
You make a fabulous point - you make a compelling argument that there are some homage watches that are better than the watches they are homaging! I have two of those homage watches that homage watches that are hard to obtain (if you can get at all) and very expensive. I own the Steinhart OneOcean OVM (One vintage Military) Diver watch that homages the vintage 70's Rolex MilSub 5517 used by the UK Special Service Naval Forces (I inherited one by my step-dad) and I got to say that the Seinhart is MUCH BETTER ! It has double AR Sapphire crystal, better 28,800 VPH/ 4HZ movement, 300 water resistance, etc. while the MilSub is way too expensive (upwards of $200K) for a watch with an old Rolex Caliber 1520 at 19,800bph / 2.75 HZ, Acrylic (Domed) crystal with Tritium Luminous Hour Markers, Circled ‘T’ on Lower Half (which doesn't lume at all now), 200 Meters / 660 Feet Water Resistance, Bidirectional Timing w/ Aluminum Insert, which is NOT good for diving! Also I own a Addiesdive watch Homaging a vintage Seiko Capitan Willard, and again, it has characteristics of an old technology, outdated, and very expensive.
What do you think ?
Thank you. I thought so hahahahaha.
I have to say that I’m just happy that we have so many options available to us.
When a homage is better for me than the watch it is homaging.
Excellent video James, I have two originals where I also have the homage version! I have the original Seiko Monster 2nd gen, it's a favourite, but also have the red dial Heimdallr Monster, which has a far better bracelet and sapphire and equivalent great lume! Seiko never made a red one. I have dived regularly with it too. Same goes for my yellow Steeldive Tuna, it also has the sapphire that is missing on my original and really water resistant too. Both having the Seiko movement really is the icing on the cake.
It’s amazing what is out there available to us.
Great to have the options.
I have 2 Rolex Submariner homage watches, one in blue and one in black.
I used a non scratch pan scourer to buff out the polished centre links on the bracelet. The size at 40 mm is perfect. Seagull St16 hackable movements. Two watches for under £100. What's not to like.
At that price it is had to complain.
Interesting video 👍. I love the Seiko Turtle case, but I'm not a fan of the hand/dial design and don't want a day display. I bought a Heimdallr homage, just because they used a Willard style dial/handset. The fact that it still had a Seiko movement and sapphire/ceramic and was less than half price was just the icing on the cake 😁
The more we can save. Them more watches we can buy 😁
I’m getting old…I love both the day & the date to keep me on track.
Fine vid James. I have a Steinhart, a Dan Henry, a Revue Thommen, (looks like an IWC with the full VJ 7750 lay out) and other homages. I have Quartz, autos, hand crankers, all in my little collection. A good watch is a good watch. I enjoy all of my watches. Wearing my new Zelos Mako lll GMT with the 9075 jump hour and on my other wrist I have my old Sarb 017 Alpinist. This is a very cool hobby! Thanks for sharing James!
Thank you for WATCHing. That Zelos looks amazing.
It most genuinely is an awesome watch! A true jump hour JUMPING @ 4 hertz with a meteorite dial that is billions of years old. It is my 1st Zelos and I adore it. Thanks for a fine vid James!
As someone who owns their grail and has also had about 10 homages of the piece...I've got to say, there's nothing that comes close to achieving the grail
It is nice to have the real thing, 🤞 I’ll be able to add mine to my collection at some stage. But also great to have so many options available to us at all budgets.
TRUTH!!!!
Superb choices James. On holiday and spending time catching up actually watching content!:Gonna have to look at Hruodland myself. The model with the snowflake hands looks stunning! Great stuff 👍
Thanks John. Enjoy you time away and I’m looking forward to your next video too.
I agree, in many cases, a quality homage can be preferable to the real thing for a number of reasons.
I’m finding that this is the case with many watches.
Thanks for WATCHing
I got the Cronos Bathyscaphe. Wow. Just wow. Absolutely fantastic. The dial is a dream
I just bought another Cronos as well. The no date, NH35 version of the Subby homage.
Incredible watch. Especially for the cost.
All gave thanks to Seiko. Hail to the real king of watches. Imagine if seiko did not created the quarts movement and gave them for free. Imagine not having cheap movements from NH3* from seiko. Imagine Seiko just price their items as expensive as most brands are asking. Imagine without Seiko to challenge the swiss industry. Is a good era we live in and Seiko did my experience and all of watch enthusiasts a worthwhile years on earth. Thank you Seiko.
Indeed. Thank you Seiko. They are amazing.
I ended up choosing a homage Tissot PRX chronograph because it uses the Seiko mechaquartz movement and keeps the watch thin enough to wear with shirts and jackets.
It does some things differently and while it isn't as nicely finished as the PRX, it is better for my need.
That it cost $80 (sale) is just a bonus.
There really are lots of watches out there that offer incredible value.
Steinhart is nice, I enjoyed that exact model but don't miss it since I sold it. Steeledive is a bargain, but you might like the Rdunae versions which are a fraction more but have no bracelets. I think homages have a place, the Seestern Sub600T is the best bargain I've bought for AUD160ish on sale.
I’m a fan of the seestern as well. I have owned one and it was great.
I owned the Steinhart one in this video as well. It had quite a dome to the crystal, and the reflections were pretty terrible. That was a version from 2017, so maybe they have improved the AR treatment since then, but yeah gave it away to a friend as it was too big for me and I also didn't like the reflections.
A great video, James. I bought the NTH Knäcken Modern Blue as a placeholder for a Tudor BB or Pelagos. While the NTH homages the Tudor Submariner of the 60s, which is unobtainable, I prefer it to anything that Tudor currently offers. Moreover, my NTH has a discrete date complication at 6.
I’ve had my eye on the NTH watches. I might have to get one.
I've got some Steeldive Homage watches. I've own them for at least 2 to 3 years now. Still nothing wrong with them. I dropped one of them by accident at about 3 feet high and it's still working just fine.
That’s great to hear. Not that you dropped one. Hahaha. But that they are still working well.
I was with you all the way until you got to the Submariner. No there is no argument about chronos ever being better purchase compared to a real sub under no circumstances. But I agree with the rest.
Thanks for WATCHing
Excellent list, thanks! I’ve never seen a couple of these! Brilliant designs. The homage vs og convo is interesting, but I think it really just comes down to personal enjoyment. Personally I’m gonna enjoy a homage sub because I can afford it. If I could afford it, I’d enjoy an og sub more. Simple as that.
It is great to have these options.
Especially at different price points.
I recently bought a Seestern S435, which some claim is a homage of the Glashutte Sea Q. Not quite.
The Glashutte Original SeaQ is arguably a homage of the "Le Forban Securite Mer" that had been originally introduced in 1966 for the French Navy, a few years prior to the vintage East German (GDR) produced Glashutte (GUB) diver from that era. Therefore, the SeaQ is also, technically, a homage...and the Seestern S434/435 is either a homage or a homage of a homage.
By the way, I do own a Glashutte Senator that I purchased over 15 years ago. The model (39-44-03-11-04) is a terrific dress watch and its decorated in-house movement is a work of art and precision. However, this is not an everyday watch. It will never be my everyday watch...Lord knows...the maintenance bill on that in-house movement...when it eventually comes...will be pretty significant (at least $1200). Same for a Rolex Sub (16613)...with its 18kt gold and ALU bezel...I tend to wear it on special occasions these days. I did wear it daily during its first decade of ownership, but now limit its use given the number of nice homage watches that can take on the daily grind of a tool watch.
I am a big fan of nice homage watches with excellent materials, fit/finish, and dependable movements (NH34/35/36/38; PT5000; SW200; ST2130, etc.). I am usually buying from the likes of San Martin, Cronos, Steeldive, Addiesdive, Thorn, Borman. Most recently, this Seestern has seriously impressed me. At only $200 for this S435...I am stunned at the high quality finishing, bezel alignment/action, dial, lume, indicie alignment, etc. One of my favorites, for sure.
It is incredible what has become available to us over the last few years and it is nice to have a variety in own collections.
Thanks for WATCHing
That is what I call "Smart Watch Collecting"....I think the same!
Thank you. They are all amazing watches.
James --
Thank you for the thoughtful piece and one about, i think, a subject that is too little discussed.
i have acquired four Chinese homages in the past two years or so, to add to my collection of six or eight watches from the "cost effective" end of the market (e.g., Tissots, Orient Stars, etc) . .. . the latter all bought via gray-market at steep discounts off MSRP. Still the average purchase price of the homages was about half that of those pre-existing watches, and all of the homages have PT5000 movements too, so they were more expensive than NH35-based homages.
Much as i like the latter, i find that i fairly strongly prefer wearing these homages vs. Tissots or Orients, particularly for dress watch use. The reason is simple i think: dress watch for professional use are basically jewelry and, to be blunt, a $200-350 Cronos or San Martin is simply going to have a noticeably superior dial and case than a Tissot or (particularly) Orient. Also, as homages, there is a timeless-ness of their designs that works well in a conservative office environment.
But even for sport watch use, the homages are simply awfully attractive in use. Again, the dials are better, but (and i have a Cronos L6005 also) the bracelets are simply miles better than than the "name" brands. For example i have a Tissot Seastar 1000 and, it suffers mightily in practically every way compare to the Cronos; to top it off it feels like a lump on the wrist relative to the refined lines of the Cronos.
So there are good reasons to like the homages . . .
-- gary ray
They can be incredible and also budget friendly.
It is sometimes surprising how good they are when you compare them to seikos and other mainstream affordable options.
Especially when they are often powered by mainstream movements.
Great list James. I just got the steeldive sub homage with a turquoise dial and I love it. And that's something aliexpress watches are lacking, variety. We get it, make the homage watch a 1-to-1 copy of it, sure, but at least offer it in different colors, bezels, dials, and materials. Not just the same boring copies.
That’s why I’ve been drawn recently to the addiesdive watches. That white 3D dial is very cool.
Great video. Homage watches are a part of most people's journey in watch collecting.
Yes they are. They allow people on a budget to own great watches and also help people get into the watch hobby.
Thank you for making this video. Saves me a lot of time and money spotting the best homage watches. I am not a wealthy person, although I can afford buying the more expensive brands, I really can’t make my self reason the expense when a more affordable option is available.
There are so many amazing watch options out there.
But it can be difficult finding them.
Thanks for WATCHing
Good video. I have two also that I consider better than the watches they are homaging.
1) the IX&DAO diver that homages the Serica 5303. I love the Serica, and actuality want to (and would) buy it. But the Serica has struggled with movement/crown issues. However, the IX&DAO can be purchased with either a SW200, and even an ETA movement at a 1/4 - 1/3 (or less) the price of the Serica. Its a great watch
2) the San Martin SN0111T. I love the Rolex design it homages EXCEPT Ive never been a fan of mercedes hands. I much prefer the milsub hands, which is, unfortunately something Rolex doesnt offer as an alternative. However, San Martin does...Additionally, it comes in titanium which - again - is something Rolex doesnt. The SM has great specs, its finished very well and is a joy to wear with its on the fly adjustable clasp. It also comes with the reliable swiss S200 movement. True, it will never be worth what the Rolex goes for, but Im quite ok with that. Plus, I didnt have to put my name on a wait list, or buy another very expensive watch and spend another $10 grand get the watch I actually wanted, or settle for mercedes hands, or kiss an AD's ass to get the design I wanted.
Both fantastic choices. My recent purchase of the IX&DAO with the SW200 movement has turned out to be a great decision.
I currently have the Serica on loan and putting them next to each other. I am happy I chose the Homage.
I love what Marc does with his Islanders. Fine vid James. Thanks
He has some amazing watches.
And…he is an honest man with whom I can always count on great service and like us, a true enthusiast :-)
I like your style. A bit off topic, what kind of deployant clasp did you put on your turbine leather strap?
It was one off AliExpress. It cost about $18aud.
It has made the on wrist experience even better.
@@WATCHingJames thank you. I will check them out.
James grail watches are rarely a grail watch due to specs or similar appearances it’s predominantly because its original, it’s from a specific brand, high price etc.
Very true. Thanks John
Great video mate, in-depth analysis of the issue and perfectly explained reasoning for homage watches having a place
Thanks James. They are all amazing watches and have a place in my collection
@@WATCHingJames cheers for the reply! Generally I purchase homage watches for three of the reasons you identified: - never going to own the real thing due to luxury costs and the fact that I like too many watches to save up for just one. - sometimes the homages are better than the originals in terms of design or specs. - sometimes the price of the original is sort of affordable but just not worth it
I have a mix of homage and genuine in my collection. I totally get where you are coming from with your way of thinking.
Thank you. It’s great that there are so many options out there for us.
I am absolutely in love with your video!
Could you possibly post more pic/vid for the Hruodland Pilot in blue dial? I'm torn between pulling a trigger for either the blue one or the black one
The blue dial was used in my last subscriber giveaway.
Check out those two videos, they both have footage of it.
It is a wonderful watch. My black dial is still one of my favourites in my collection.
Good video James, I am in agreement, may sound daft but I've never hankered after a grail watch, and I could simply not afford a high-end piece, definitely happy with my homage collection.
I must say that collection of 7 watches you highlighted are excellent, lovely choices.
Thanks & best wishes from Scotland
That’s the best way to be. Not always wanting something super expensive.
These watches are incredible and I’ve enjoyed them as much as I would have more expensive watches.
So nice to keep it all in perspective.
Thanks for WATCHing
Wait didn't the Rhuodland used to have the ST3621? If I'm not mistaken that's an ST3620. Care to chime in if it's better? Also what's the deployant clasp you have installed? Looks interesting.
I think they have changed the movement they are now using.
Not sure if one is better than the other but appears less decorated.
The clasp is great. Just a cheap one from AliExpress.
Some neat examples - I really like that Bronzoyster Prince and the PLAAF "Pilot" - but the maxi case Cronos really took that Rolex dead end and ran with it.
Thanks for WATCHing
Enjoyed your video; a question: I always liked the Rolex solid gold President-but I cannot afford one. I refuse to buy a fake-is there another maker (Buliva, Longines, etc.) that makes a solid gold watch in this style?
I’m not aware of any real gold alternatives. However there are a number of gold looking alternatives.
Bulova 98C127 and 96C127
Rotary Havana
Peugeot Bedford
If you google it there are a number that come up.
Great video.Some nice watches there. I have the Steeldive 1970 & it made me smile as soon as I opened the box. I’d love a real Willard,but at £1200 it’s way overpriced. I love the irony of The Steeldive having a Seiko movement anyway 😅. My Subby homage is a Davosa,which I also enjoy. Never going to drop 10k on a watch,so may as well keep enjoying those homages 😊
That’s great to hear. The steel dive is amazing and with the Seiko movement I’m sure it is a watch that will last for years.
Some of them are better because 40 years have gone by and there are massive improvements in manufacturing. The steeldive for instance has a sapphire crystal, a ceramic bezel and the newer Seiko movement has no plastic parts.
Absolutely. Just like the Steinhart. Newer technology making it stronger and more reliable
I must say that i agree with you. A couple of weeks ago i got a watch of AliExpress, an homage to a watch i always have seen as a grailwatch a blue Tudor Pelagos, but this homage an Octopus Kraken in titanium with a PT5000 movement, for me it feels even better than the original. I have been wearing it for a couple of weeks now and I enjoy it every time it is on my wrist. I probably buy an original, but with this on my wrist i do not need to and can use the money better on my home and my family.
There are some great homage versions of that watch available now.
It’s great that we have so much choice now.
I have two Pagani submariners green dial and black dial. One for $89. and the other for $129. They keep better times than my Tudors and Tissot. They are as good as my Rolex Starbucks and Date just. I enjoy them immensely.
That’s great to hear. Thanks for WATCHing
My "Laco" homage is better than the original because has titanium case, sapphire and Seiko VH31 movement (more precise with sweep seconds hand) very comfortable to wear when going to explore or trekking near mountains
That’s fantastic. Sounds like a great everyday watch
Very good video yet again. Thanks for explaining your reason for buying homage watches!
Thank you. I really enjoy making these type of videos.
I enjoy wearing my Orient dress watch with a champagne dial, gunblued hands and automatic movement, which is a homage to an Omega dress watch of the 1940s. its commented on regularly by admirers , and it is a beautiful watch
I’m a big fan of Orient. They make some amazing watches and at affordable prices
Agree on the Cronos - although now that I own one, I'm not sure there aren't better homages out there. It's up there, but it's not perfect. Truth be told, if Ginault offered a model with Mercedes-hands, I'd probably be saving up for that one right now.. :)
Semi agree on the Steinhart, which I've already mentioned I have owned in 42, then sold that and got the 39mm instead. I'd pick the smaller one every time if I had to choose again. The size just doesn't look right for a 1970s diver IMO plus the weird lugs and flat case on the Ocean One made the 42mm model look like a bit of a saucer on my 17cm wrist.
I would add the San Martin SN 0109 which, I think, in a few ways is better than the BB Pepsi GMT it homages: Smaller case diameter at 39-40mm and at just 13mm it's considerably thinner than the original. The flanks aren't nearly as ridiculously tall and the super-flat boxed crystal looks great. The original, in comparison, looks a bit like a huge lump of metal, whereas the SM's lack of height and that flat-ish boxed crystal make it a very "discreet" piece to wear. Well... except for the two-tone bezel... :) .
The Ginault is amazing. I was able to borrow one and it is definitely the best quality homage I’ve had hands on with.
I have had the same thought about the Steinhart. I recently sold this one and plan on getting the smaller version in the future.
@@WATCHingJames That's interesting as I had that Steinhart OceanOne in 2017 and ended up selling it a year later as it felt too big for me. We have the same sized wrists so I found it interesting when I saw that you had one, knowing of my own experience, and even more interesting now that I read you solid it! I have the Ginault Ocean Rover II on the way, which takes some milsub inspiration with the sword hands and fully graduated bezel so I guess that the Ginault Ocean-Rover II will be the belated replacement for my previous Steinhart OceanOne milsub 5517 homage. :)
Thanks to the homages I can wear every model I like....like my 8 Daytona homages I have... love them... I can not imagine owning only one Daytona...yes I also have the platinum...
I love divers... so I have 6 of them...and even a Casio...
the only thing with homage is the huge difference between homage brands... stick to the good brands and dont buy the real cheap stuff...
the 20 and 30 euro homage watch is always crap....I own a few of them also....
from Spain
We are lucky to have so many options available to us.
true@@WATCHingJames
👍
Excellent video, appreciate you providing links. Subscribed !
Thank you. I appreciate your support
Great topic for a video! I love my Tandorio SKX013 homages!
That are amazing value watches
I definitely know the feeling that an homage can feel superior to the watch it is homaging.
Thanks for WATCHing
In my case, I have a large wrist (8.2 inches or 22 cm.) and vintage watches in 36, 37 or 38 mm diameter look absolutely ridiculous on me. 4 or 5 years ago I bought the 42mm Steinhardt Ocean 2 GMT and I love it, the finish, the movement, I think it is much better than the 1957 Rolex on which it is based
The Steinhart watches are amazing.
Great point James.
Can I PM you?
I have a quite couple I'd like suggest.
But not from Ali Express.
I’m always open hearing about other watches.
You can message me through instagram or email me at watchingjames@gmail.com
I think you are perfectly correct, in fact the Cronos Bezel Arabic numbers are in white paint which really pops, as opposed to them being platinum or white gold, but it looks like silver on the Rolex submariner and nowhere near as legible on the Cronos.
To top that l have tried on the Rolex submariner no date 2020 model 144060 at a AD and l had my Cronos no date Rolex Submariner Homage with me, I preferred my Cronos.
I have heard many people say the same thing. I just bought another Cronos subby. This time the no date.
Very Good Video James 👏😀
Thank you. This was a fun video to think about and put together.
BB58, while I like the style and aesthetic it's not a grail watch for me so spending $70 vs $3k is a no brainer. Plus servicing a NH35 vs and in-house movement makes the homage better.
That is one of the big reasons for me too.
The cost to service the luxury movements can be prohibitive.
When talking luxury, homage watches are not better than the originals but they are a great alternative for those that can't afford them.
It’s great that they are available for us in a lower budget.
The Maen Manhattan 37 is better than the Vacheron Constantin 2215 it's based off or even a Patek Nautilus IMO
I will have to check it out
Nice video .Definitely some homages are better than the originals.Hopefully we see a part 2 of these comparisons.
I hope so too. Thanks for WATCHing
Like everything in life- it is better to try and taste different things, and not go obsessively on just one thing… that’s my “philosophy” with my collection.
It’s a great way to go about collecting
What are the brands of these homage watches?
I mentioned each one as I show them.
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Good value. Just subscribed to your channel.
Thank you
An homage watch will never be better for me personally. We all value different things so not attacking anyone who wears and enjoys them. I just put a lot of stock in original design. It's expensive to not only design a watch, but also to pay for designs that don't work. Everybody is shocked when brands like Pagani Design can offer what they do for a low price. I argue they should be lower. They're only paying for production costs and nothing else. Of course they will be inexpensive. Ultimately this is a hobby and we should buy what we enjoy and can afford. Have a great day!
It’s great they we have the choices and I am particularly happy at the moment as we are spoilt for choice from microbrands too.
The Steeldive also has sapphire crystal, anti reflective coating and it hacks and hand winds. It is far superior to the original in specs and price and it gets the most wrist time out of my collection
It is a great Watch and incredible for the price
im about to buy my first homage and its a close cousin to one that you mentioned in this 👍
That’s great. I’m sure it will be fantastic. Enjoy
@@WATCHingJames thanks! my father had a seiko 6117-8000 but it belongs to my nephew now, so i chose the steeldive SD1977 ☺️👍
Nice. You covered almost all the points for and against Homages in 9 minutes. I also think even the most militant opposers of Homage watches are accepting of Homages of vintage watches. If someone was selling a brand new car that looks exactly like a 1969 Mustang Boss 302 with a Toyota engine (and Toyota reliability) for $7000; I’ll take two please.
I’d sign up for one of those too.
I’m actually surprised that is not being done more often.
@@WATCHingJames Actually with cars it’s the exact opposite. There are companies that will build you a “modern” Mustang, Bronco, Jaguar for a tidy sum of $300,000. Thank God I like Homage Watches and not Homage Classic Cars. 😅
As much as I love my luxury watches, one of my most worn watches is my Steinhart OVM on a vintage inspired leather strap. It looks gorgeous and lets be honest, I'm never going to be able to afford a classic Milsub! Pleased to see it was the first watch in your video.
The Steinhart is really impressive. A great watch
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I’ve always wanted a Rolex sub since I was a teenager. Now that I’m older, I could afford one, but I also got into investing. I just got a San Martin SN 019 that is pretty amazing. Scratches that itch, and I’ll just keep hoarding Apple stock.
Hahahaha yes. Even when you can afford a certain watch it does not mean that you should buy it.
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As an ex-Rolex Sub owner, I can attest that after a while of owning it, you feel you have "ticked the box" and will want to sell it on, which is what I did. I made a tidy profit on it too, which is a bonus. I've replaced it with an Orient Kamasu red-dial.
@@taoistgoth cool. I'm the type of person that even if I had a Rolex Sub, I'd probably save it for special occasions and wear the San Martin most days so I wouldn't have to worry about scratches and dents.
great review, thanks
Thank you
Quality homage watches are fantastic. It lets people appreciate the design and feel of an iconic or sought after piece which they may never have had the opportunity to do. It's also a good way of trying out something you think you like before buying the original watch. For people who make derogatory comments about homage watches; you should do more research on the 'knock offs'. There are plenty of case of quality manufacturing which surpass the likes of Rolex in many areas. Don't get me wrong, the history, name and original design will always tempt me but I'm more than happy to buy San Martin or Cronos because I understand their finishing and commitment to quality.
There are so many great reasons to consider them.
I understand the thoughts behind the “hate” but I feel there is a very good place for them in the watch world.
I think if you wanted a one watch collection, go ahead and get the real deal. But if you want to have 4, 5, or 15 watches as a collection, then the homage watches can be a lot of fun, for not a lot of money. I recently got into watches again and my first big purchase was a Tudor pelagos 39, but my second purchase was a San Martin gmt Pepsi with the opaline dial. I love both watches, but I find I wear the San Martin more, simply because I don’t have the same concerns while wearing the much more costly Tudor. And the fit, finish and looks of the San Martin are on par with the Tudor in my opinion. The only thing the Tudor does better is the movement, but not by a difference that I will notice. I was really blown away with the San Martin, and I will be purchasing a couple more Ali express watches in the future.
SM make incredible watches and they keep coming out with so many new options.
The Pelagos 39 is the only watch I'm considering picking up a branded homage for; I normally build my own custom homage watches, sterile dials (no text, no logos, nice clean aesthetic), but I can't source the titanium case and bracelet for a P39 homage. I could do it in stainless, but I really like the P39 for it's titanium look (and I don't have a titanium in my collection).
San Martin makes a nice P39 homage in titanium, but I just don't know how I feel about having a homage that I didn't custom make and assemble.
Nice homage watches getting to experience it to see if you want to get the original
It is a great idea. Especially if you are unsure of making that bigger purchase
Great video.
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Love collecting San Martin due to price and quality. I can hit the beach without worrying if salt and sand are damaging my Omega desk diver.
It is one of the great reasons to own these watches.
One day I’ll probably own one or two more expensive watches. But I’ll still have a few homages too.
I like watches but not the cost. Homages rock!
It is great they there are so many watch options for us to choose from.
5:08: ' The Steeldive is actually better [than the Willard], not because it is affordable but because it's actually achievable [the Willard isn't?], it's a bargain and I want to own this watch at this price'.
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STARTS AT 3:13 ...
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nice collection of homage watches james
Thank you.
They are amazing watches.
"Homages" are usually boring and lack creativity, but technically they can be really impressive. I don't care about any of them, but i would be very surprised and possibly tempted if someone made a homage of the now discontinued (and impossible to get) Omega Speedmaster Reduced: sapphire instead of acrylic, 50m or more instead of 30m of water resistance, mechaquartz or even hand-winding chronograph movement instead of only-automatic, premium bracelet instead of a simple folded and so on.
I was actually looking at a triple date the other day and almost bought one.
40mm case, sapphire crystal.
I ended up buying a Dynamic Chronograph. Which is amazing. But I had to sell a few watches to fund the purchase.
Bro literally summarized the entire r/Watches subreddit's opinions on homage watches in under 3 minutes.
Hahahaha. I’m really happy with this video. It is one of my favorites
I have tried a few homages. Steinhart, Sugess, San Martin, Invicta, Pagani, and Seestern. Most came and went as I just didn’t take much pride of ownership in them. It sounds snobbish but it actually isnt. I feel no shame having owned these homages over the years. Indeed, in some cases, owning a homage got some watches out of my system, like for example, Rolex Explorer, Submariner, and Omega Speedy. But I don’t want to open my watch box and see a dozen homages looking back at me. That isn’t interesting to me. So I sold or gifted most of them.
I’m just really happy that there are so many options available to us to choose.
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I don't think it's a bad thing at all!! My first 'Real' watch was (is) a Doxa Sub 300T, which I bought with very little knowledge of watches. Obviously I researched the 300T before buying, but my all round general watch knowledge was poor to say the least. After the watch collecting bug had bitten and my knowledge base grew, I realised that the Rolex Sub was on my 'To be bought at some point' list. I knew that it would be a significantly different wearing experience from the Doxa. My way to try it out was to buy a load of parts from Ebay, and another site for what can only be described as a fake frankenwatch. Rubber strap from a Yachtmaster (fake), Fake Submariner case, NH35 movement and a fake GMT Master II face. Got the Dad of one of my work colleagues to assemble the bits for me, so now I've got a 3 handed GMT YachtSubMaster fake......I was right, the wearing experience is MASSIVELY different, and I now KNOW that a real Submariner is still on my list (Or potentially a 4 handed GMT Master II). Got to try it out for under £100.
I think it’s a great idea to get a feel for the watch you are wanting. I’ve had a couple of experiences with watches I though I would love. But on wrist. Not so much.
If I had spent a lot on them it would have been a waste of money for me.
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Why did you pick the Doxa? Are you a Clive Cussler/Dirk Pitt fan?
@MrBacchus18 I certainly am! Been after one for years, and finally decided it was time to spend the money. Not been disappointed, got 3 Doxas now.
To be honest I'm getting a not fed up of the ali express offerings ..it's a bit wild west in there .
There is so much to choose from it can almost be a bit overwhelming.
Agreed!
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Nice video
Thanks Boris
handsome looking time piece
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I'm self identified as a non homage guy but, If I remove those watches I own that mimic a Sub, from Seikos to Tags, I've still got at lest two watches that are homage grails, I love them so much I cracked, they are a Sugess Zenith and an Explorer 1 from @A1watch, hilariously the Zenith is much more expensive than the Ex1 irl.
Hahaha. Yes that does seem to happen.
To my understanding .
Homages are as a rule are of lower quality. I'll explain what i mean .
Ofc thats expected when its homaging a much more expensive watch; brands that are happy just to do strict homages without adding anything different or unque tend to be on the cheaper / lower end of the spectrum , quality wise.
I could be way off. Just my impression so far as someone new to the hobby.
Personally i like certain designs eg
Rolex explorer..but wouldnt want something that was an exact replica made with cheaper parts / movement.. not as well finished. rather something influenced by that with a twist i like.
Where is the line between a homage and being influenced by something can be blurred i spose.
Just thinking aloud, kinda
It is an interesting thought about where does a homage start and end.
Slightly influenced all the way through to a virtual copy.
If I like it, it doesn't matter what it is
That is the best attitude to have
"Homages are better value watches" is a very subjective statement. It always depend on what you personally value in a watch.
I hope to have answered that in 7 different ways in this video.
I don’t think they are “better value” they are alternatives and not just because of the pricing.
Rainbow Pagani is more understated and less tacky than the original Rainbow Daytona.
It is great to see how many options there are out for us more affordable watch enthusiasts
I own 6 homages, am perfectly happy with them and have absolutely no interest in buying the "real" thing.
The fact that most of them are quartz makes me even happier knowing that they are more robust and massively more accurate than the overpriced originals. The last thing I have any intention of doing is giving money to Rolex, Tudor, Omega or any of the other supposed luxury brands.
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Hi personally I don't agree with you but the main thing with watch collecting is that you are happy and love the watches you own it don't matter what I think or anyone else thanks John
Look I have a Steeldive homage to the Subby your Cronos is homaging. For $130 and the amount I wear it in amongst my 100+ watch collection, I have no desire to pay $20k+ for the Rolex 🤷♂️
Sounds like another good reason to have the homage vs the original
Mostly I agree with you!
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I need a yacht-master homage
I think Pagani Design has a great value version.
I prefer homage watches with dial colors different from the original and I don't worry about damage or theft. They also show how overpriced many of the original "grail" watches are. Good discussion.
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Wow that hruodland bronze is pricey
Yes it is. I thought the same thing and it sat on my wish list for over a year because of that.
But now that I own it I wish I bought it earlier.
@@WATCHingJames do they make steel version ?
Unfortunately not. I do like this dial with the bronze however.
I’m going to start working on the full review of this one soon.
I have a number of watches. Some genuine, some homage. And to be blunt I tend to wear the homage ones a lot more, particularly when I am out in the evening. That way if some flip flop wearing degenerate sticks a knife in my face and requests that I give it to him, I really don't have a significant problem with it. 🙄
It is another great reason to have them in your collection
I'd show him the name on the dial before handing it over.
Just because you can finally afford to buy a grail watch doesn't mean you can afford to lose it if you are mugged or if you or your child breaks it.
Also, being able to buy a grail doesn't mean you can afford to service it.
It is definitely worth keeping in mind the ongoing costs with watches.
What's the hype about bronze case watches. I do not get it.
I did not get it either. These are my first two and I bought them this year. I do love them. But being bronze is only part of that thought
Its not a hype, either you like them or you don’t!
Sound Advice
This was one of my favourite videos I’ve made