Same for me; I'm a pre Fossil Skagen wearer. I quite like them. I like how thin they are, and even though I have quite nice watches, my Skagens are my beaters.
I agree with you. Ben doesn't really know what he has in his hands. The model This is a classic retro model, deliberately having the strap connections which he described as 'perculiar and interesting', this is actually TRADITIONAL way and as such is deliberately chosen. Not a standard Skagen feature. Skagen brand Skagen watches are very well known and respected brand and have been around for a really long time. They are thin and minimalistic, but great quality and durability. I have a 12 years old Skagen, works as well as the first day and looks awesome. People buy it for its unique design.
One of my first watches was a Skagen - very slim with a metal bracelet - ideal as it kept perfect time with no attention. It did take me several months to notice the date window though - so small that I needed a magnifying glass to read it! I love slim watches - I have a JLC Ultra thin Master and a Baume and Mercier Riviera Automatic which is the thinnest of the lot.
You know, I don't understand why more dedicated watch manufacturers don't make watches that look like this but with some actual quality behind them. Why isn't there a classy 39mm automatic Bulova with some Bauhaus styling? I'd pay a good $300 for that, instead they only churn out 44mm monstrosities. Or what about Citizen? Why do 90% of their watches look like they belong on a substitute teacher's wrist? Why do most entry level Tissots look like they pay the gas-guzzler tax? They should take a good look at what these fashion watch companies are doing design-wise and learn from it.
I’ve had a Skagen as my everyday beater for 10 years. They are known to be super slim (even for a quartz) and usually under £100 each. Models and designs are changed every so often however they usually learn towards the minimal Bauhaus style. I think they are a great brand with a history. Edit: Cool
The pre-Fossil Skagens are pretty nice and I've never had a problem with my 809XLTTM Titanium. (I had it for almost 10 years) It is one of their best designs, it has won red dot design award in 2011. I don't like most newer Skagens, but I think that one is surely worth checking out!
Indeed the older Skagen watches where/still are pretty good ❤ Sadly most of the new models aren't anyway near what used to be - in general, one could say Skagen has changed for the worse, some times they still make a nice model though.
@The Truth How so? Is it not true that Casio offers good quality respectively in every price bracket? Even a sub-$20 Casio will last at least ~5 years with no problems whatsoever: appropriate battery life, appropriate case materials, straps, pushers, they won't break down on you easily. And if you're happier in the $50, $100, $200 brackets, it'll be the same.
@@MJFallout Thoughtful comment. Casio have excellent Marketing Executive staff, who clearly understood that the prime task is to ensure that the Business makes a profit. That's not only done in their Wrist Watch sector, it's done across the Company's entire product range. That's why Casio gets such positive YT reviews. Phil.
@The Truth No they are not, they offer good value for money. I own several of them from the cheaper ones to a couple of G-Shocks I own. Casio are the leading brand in electronic watches.
Yes, for the same price I just bought a Casio Edifice chrono that is very nice considering I go for high end but I wanted a simple daily and it's quality. The second hands spot on too.
Skagen is a US based company, founded in the US. The couple moved here from Denmark. I received my first Skagen in 2003 after I got out of the army, it's still running. I own 4 of them at this point. I can't speak to the quality of Daniel Wellington but for the price points I've purchased my skagens at, they're worth the money if you like minimalist style watches.
@@jonaspao9070 I Skagen, Sieko, Gant, Triwa, Oris, Timex and a Christopher Ward. There are 2 high end watches I've put on my wish list. A moonphase, either a JLC or Glasshute Orig. and a GoS
I bought my wife one in 2011 and it's still ticking today. I'm actually surprised of how long it has lasted. Perhaps the build quality has gone down when it was acquired by Fossil in 2012? I dunno but the 2011 watch was a great buy.
I have a Skagen Signatur. bought it 15 years ago because it was beautifully simple and very slim. I have no reason to regret it and would recommend it as a dress watch any day.
I had a Skagen Hybrid (Bluetooth linked, sub-dial for notifications from phone, nice little feature to skip tracks on phone when using media player). Paid £75 for it I think - still going strong, build was pleasant for the money. No complaints. A nice stepping stone when coming off a pure smartwatch (Microsoft Band) and led onto 'proper' watches.
Have some Skagens from the pre-Fossil days, before I really got into watches. Never had a problem with durability or function. The design back then was less minimalist and, to me, far more interesting. My wife has some and enjoys hers. Thanks for the well balanced vid...looking forward to more!
I got 2 Skagen on my collection, the first one was opened to replace the battery and would never close back due to imperfection on the bezel, the second one has been a everyday use for 2 years now and still looks good. after 2 battery replacements and some polish work it still looks brand new. I do thinks is a good watch, sleek, and elegant, but I wouldn't pay too much for them either.
I have to say my experience with Skagen has been very good. Granted, I only own two of their watches but I haven't experienced the QC and finishing issues you highlighted. Perhaps I'm just lucky but I consider them to be a major step above the DWs and MVMTs of this world. I have to agree the strap design on yours is strange. My two use a milanese strap with quick release spring bars and it feels very solid. As for the seconds hand....lol I always go for a small seconds or no seconds design with cheap quartz, so as not to have to deal with dodgy alignment.
I have one and I thought it was great υntil I bought my first decent watch. In fairness, they have a certain aesthetic and they are very light and easy to wear. A good entry to the world of watches.
I first found Skagen when searching for 'thin watch' on Google back in 2004. I love their design sense, and have forgiven their Fossil ownership as a result. If you collect, or just appreciate, watch designs that reflect creativity, and aren't a slave to only considering Seiko or Swiss movements, there are looks Skagen offers that are great. Ben's critique of the strap reflect more of his biases to the 'typical' than valid criticism. I like the novel lug/strap design. Comparison to Daniel Wellington is laughable -- since Skagen preceeded the DW junk in the market and reflects far better design.
Late response but as a watch repairer ive learnt that these watches, although aesthetically pleasing, are a very bad design from the strap fitment (ben is absolutely right. we are endlessly ordering skagen straps from the fossil group to replace customers old torn straps) and the biggest problem being that the caseback is smaller than the dial size. Meaning that repair becomes very difficult as theres lots of room for extra damages when you have to open up the front of the watch via the crystal to replace the movement etc.
A good and very fair minded review. I confess I have bought a couple of the older ones as gifts, but its a niche. They are not something that will be an heirloom, or go swimming with you, or that you can gaze at and ponder enjoying the workmanship ( (which I can do with my Victorinox despite it being quartz), but for a pretty, minimalist, Bauhaus style design gift, they are good if you can get them well under 100 AUD. Of course if you are about to parachute somewhere east of Kandahar, one chooses a Casio G Shock or a Vostok Amphibia. :)
Was about to buy this watch for 60 euros. Seems a bit of a better deal at that price, but glad I didnt in the end. Rather have a Seiko 5 for a bit more. :)
If you like the Skagen design go for it. I'd rather have a nice quartz watch than a cheap mechanical. Except of course if you don't care for time telling. Cheap mechanical watches are a marketing trick.
Picked one of these up for $12. Strap had torn through the little screws. Fixed it with glue and thread reinforcement. This strap type doesn't pivot, so it will conform less to your wrist than a similar 45mm lug-width watch with traditional lugs. The glass on mine is scratched, but not easy to replace. Despite the snapback for battery access, I think it's a front loader, and there's no easy way to get that crystal out. I suppose I could smash it, or maybe try the air pressure method. And the snapback on these Skagens is super hard to remove, as mentioned in the video! For looks, it's slimmer and sleeker than a Timex weekender, and much quieter too, but less serviceable. I like that it has a date, but the date window is super tiny. As the other commenter said, it was a Danish couple living in the USA that started the brand, all USA owned now, the "Denmark" is just den-marketing. Not bad at $12, any more than that not really worth it unless you love it. Great production as always, thanks for the review!
Just a Dane passing by. When pronouncing Skagen, you don't say the G/it's silent, so it's pronounced Skaen if you wanna say it the Danish/"the right way".
That's quartz for you. Best to do is always to get watches without a second hand, can't have a second hand miss the markers if you don't ahve a hand at all 🧐
My first watch I bought from a department store was Skagen and I've grown to like the brand through the years. I am a computer IT guy and my hands need to fit into small computers, so I like the thin watches. I must have a dozen Skagen watches by now. Other than replacing batteries I've never had a problem with any of them.
Finally someone who talks honestly about these fashion watches and tells it straight: IF you get them for 50 $/€, they're fine. Just don't pay them retail price and don't expect 'em to last forever.
I've had nothing but good service from Skagen watches. I think they are the best looking watches on the market at their price points, by a wide margin.
This exact watch is my first watch. Loved it. Surprisingly, the strap holes used to attach the strap to the watch weren't the first part to go, the genuine leather is actually just a layer of leather that split apart after 3 years
Since I went to Copenhagen on a trip just over 3 years ago I wanted a Skagen watch as a souvenir. They're all about style. They looked over-priced in Denmark so I didn't get one. Last December, in a watch clearance shop in Swindon UK I bought a GBP159 Skagen "Melbe" with day and date and metal mesh bracelet reduced to just GBP39. At that price it was an excellent buy, so slim, light and fits my small wrist perfectly. It's good at time-keeping too. I'm very happy with mine and at that price, it was basically a give-away
I just replaced the battery on my daughter-in-law's Skagen SKW 2151. The quartz movement is in fact a Japanese Miyota Super GL30 (at least on this model).
I had this one for years and gave it to my daughter. She wears it all the time. The band has come into a nice patina and darkened nicely. No problems with anything so far. thumbs up here. Incidentally, my son bought me a Fossil last year and its almost the same thickness etc. but in blue face. Good too for the price.
I looked into how to say Skagen and I believe it's - Skayin - like "stay in". I liked these watches a lot before I knew about watches. First I saw of them was in the Harrington Catalog as a really thin watch. Enticing pieces.
Definitely recommend the Sternglas quartz - super slim, light and a really comfortable strap that seems to be made of really decent leather. Oh, and domed sapphire. Keeps time well, as you'd expect from the Ronda movement. All in all, happy. If you need a second hand it doesn't have that - it doesn't bother me!
Great rundown of the details and features. I've got a few Skagens (definitely paid less than what the MRP was on the video) and all have been reliable and overall, pretty durable. And as he said: they look great. If anything they "look" far more expensive than they are, though that's not why I buy them: It's the clutter-free minimalist styling, and thin profile that is the appeal.
Ben, I purchased the Skagen 233XXLRLB, black dial, rose gold case and hands, in January of 2013 for 66 USD. And this because I was tired of pulling out a phone when walking to the train station. Being rather naive, I showered with the watch daily which eventually destroyed the screw-in leather strap. And I'd pay about 30 USD for a Skagen replacement--if I can find one. Love the Skagen design, especially the thin case. Still wearing this watch with the thin leather upper being the only part of the band left. Cool. Cheers.
I kinda like Timex designs, though Casio makes more durable models for less money. Nowadays i go for ultra dirt cheap China brands. Abuse it like crazy and they still go on. If it stops, i have a few more in my drawer.
The case backs on these are amazingly difficult to open and reclose. I have removed backs on literally hundreds of different types of watches and these hold the crown for the hardest to deal with. You have to be very careful replacing the back too so you don't crack the crystal. The bands do hold up reasonably well. There are also versions that use a quick release strap.
Skagen started it all for me. I still have the 806XLTBN titanium I bought as a grad student when I was struggling and couldn't afford anything. It means the same to me as a few of the grails I've acquired along the way.
I can speak on the durability of the straps Ben. I once owned a Skagen Ancher with a black leather strap. While my wrist is not too wide, the strap simply broke off of the watch case from the point where it was screwed down after two months of daily use. Fair to say, that was my first and last Skagen watch. As you stated in the video, this is probably a tactic to get customers to spend more money on their in-house straps, which are advertised quite prominently on their website.
I have a Skagen watch that I bought around 2005 for about $80. It has a blue dial and 34mm titanium case with a stainless steel mesh bracelet. The movement is a Japanese quartz. What really caught my eye was the blue dial and the very slim profile. At that time, there simply was no other watch like it as far as I could see. It is very light weight and almost feels like there's nothing on the wrist when I wear it. I have gotten lots of compliments from people when I wore it. There is a deep scratch on the case, which probably means Skagen used grade 2 titanium. Overall, I am really happy with it. I don't wear it much any more simply because I've just out grown this style. What surprises me is that Skagen still makes many watches in this exact style after so many years. The case sizes are larger but the overall shape, build, and styling are identical as far as I can see. There are only minor styling differences on the dial.
@Joey. I think that is a relevant comment. In Australia the brand has been sold through inner city Lifestyle stores for at least the last 30 years. I remember that because the watch displays always caught my eye. Phil.
The Skagen titanium watches are durable and can take a beating. They're nice looking, they are ultra thin, they have Japanese Miyota movements, and I get many compliments on them. I have been wearing them for 15 years, I never think of taking the Skagen off before working on machinery, and they polish up great with a Dremel tool. Say what you like, I'm wearing one now and loving it. And should I trash this one they are cheap to buy on the net. My other watches (which were gifts) are a Rolex gold and stainless, and a Maruice LaCroix stainless steel with and ETA movement.
Got to say the watch I liked most in recent years and still wear regularly is a Skagen. This was my next best ever to a Timex I was given as a 13th birthday present sometime last century! It now vies with an Orient and a Rotary. No complaints whatsoever and still the best dress watch in my eyes.
I always liked your take on the watches that are on the affordable (and not only) section and not taking the path of being kind to the review. As for this one personally I'd probably put it on the garbage side of the wall because although the strap is quite interesting the way is set up it just seems so disencouraging to trust, the fact that you don't have the ability to know what the exact movement is (let alone to even say replace the battery), the fact that the second hand does not align is a definite reason to put it on that side of the wall. Also the price too. I guess it takes a serious research to find something on that range and even if you end up paying slightly more at least you'd get something far more better. Anyways. Keep it up Ben.
Replacment bands are readily available. I have no trouble removing the case backs. I've had to change many skagen batteries over the years. The trick is to use a chisel - yes, really. They're very sharp and will bite the lip and have lots of leverage. I have many high end watches too but love how slim these are and how they hug your wrist. Some are more "huggy" than others.
I should have mentioned that I had a favorite and wore it every day for years. The leather actually wore in quite well to a lovely patina. I think some of your assumptions here are in error.
I've got two Skagens, a blue dial chrono with a similar band to this one, and a "dive-style" blue/black combo (to it's credit it does have a screw down case back and crown). The lume is crap, but the second hand on both hit their markers and given their slim profile are just comfortable to wear. I picked them both up at killer deals on sale, the chrono for $15 and the diver for $25, and at those prices it's hard to argue against. The chrono is also among the few times I've gotten a compliment on a watch, over watches many times them in value, so there's that I guess lol.
Lovely video, I think it's really important to talk/educate about the disadvantages of some of these fashion brands and talk about the better, more affordable and more heritage pieces you can get from companies such as seiko for example. On a side note, I've been watching the likes of you and some other Watch You tubers and its inspired me to make a channel of my own would really appreciate it you ever get the time to give one of my video's a quick look and any pointers/hints on starting out would be greatly appreciated! Great video as always and looking forward to the next one!
You’re right- “leather” straps worn out very quickly, but not the screw ends, but where they buckle. Bought it for nice THIN profile! Got lots of compliments ~ until the thin crystal glass was cracked! Didn’t even notice that I must have knocked it somewhere. Too bad, I liked it .
I got a Skagen in the mid 00s as my first "adult watch". I loved the minimal design, light and flat built and fine milanese band. It probably was the piece that got me into watches. I wrote a design study on it for a school assignment back then and have been interested in watch design ever since. Unfortunately the glass broke at some point and I broke the band.
My wife purchased me a Skagen back in 2007 when I got back from Iraq. I still have it. It's a titanium. She has one as well when they used actual diamonds.
My wife loves her Skagen watch I bought her in 2011. It's still ticking today. She loves the minimalist design and it's really sturdy for a thin watch. I dunno about the build quality after it was acquired by Fossil in 2012 though but the one I bought is a really great buy.
Quick note, the brands founder was from Denmark but was living in the US at the time they established the company so it was technically an American company. I bought a Skagen in 2006 prior to the Fossil acquisition, I was in my early 20s and it was one of the first watches I ever bought myself. Bottom line up front, it's not complete garbage but I would not buy another from them. I paid just under $100 US and I still have it today. It's a black painted (powder coated maybe?) titanium 37mm case with a black metal mesh bracelet, reference number T233XLTMN. The quality is average at best, much like the current model in the video the second hand does not align on the second markers and over time the black paint has begun to wear off of the bracelet though only slightly. The paint has rubbed off of the clasp significantly. The case back is extremely difficult to open and I also scratched the watch attempting to change the battery. The back lists only "Japan Quartz Movement". It seems over time and after the acquisition very little has changed. the watch still functions as well as it ever did so I would not call it a rip-off or garbage but I would also not recommend it as a first choice. Having owned this watch for roughly 15 years i can say that you can probably feel safe buying one with the expectation that it will not stop working within a year or two, but I wouldn't pay more than maybe $75 at the most. What they ask for as their MSRP is ridiculous. This would be a safe bet to buy discounted through a third party as long as you know it's a legit sale. Honestly though, there's better out there for the money.
Yeah, I bought a Skagen early in my watch obsession. I was attracted to the stylish minimalist dial design. Sadly, I found the proprietary grains-of-rice strap was not really replaceable, and was way too short for my 7 3/4 inch wrist. At the time it wasn't returnable, so it sits in a drawer unworn. The dial designs are fine for such a cheap watch, but the weird, non-standard straps are a deal killer.
I have 4 Skagens. I have never paid more than $60 for one. At that price I don't think they are bad. I have 2 with the leather strap and they have worn well and haven't had any issues with the way they are attached. The backs are definitely tight. You can't put them on without a press. I think their designs predate the DWs and such and I think they go with the Danish heritage. Just my opinion.
Have pre fossil skagen and it is excellent. I still buy skagens as gifts for friends/family, they all love it. You should have reviewed the mesh band skagen
I fixed a Skagen watch for my mother. The minute had fallen off. It used a Miyota GL10 movement with date at 6 o’clock. Replacement movements cost a few dollars, so they must be under $1 in quantity. There is nothing wrong with the GL10. It will keep accurate time and likely last the life of the case it's in. It's probably going to be tossed well before wearing out.
I just looked up a video on changing a skagen battery and the guy just used a knife under the protruding part to lift it off. No unscrewing or anything. I guess you already know that but I thought I’d comment just in case. I actually got a skagen on a mesh bracelet as a present over ten years ago. I was skeptical at for but I’ve worn it a lot and still got it. I just get my local jeweller to do the battery changes.
I have five Skagen watches, none of which have the screw-attached strap. I'm not sure why he's focused on this particular model. They are affordable, minimalist and modern. Great watches for those of us who have no desire to own a Rolex.
I have a skagen Melbye, it's made of titanium and stainless steel, also can confirm the miyota movement I guess every brand has its good and bad watches, however yes, it's a fashion brand
I have had a Skagen Signatur Minimalist Men's Watch with Stainless Steel Bracelet, Mesh for about a year and love it. I am not bothered in the least by the not perfect alignment of the second hand with the dial. If I want time to the exact second, I pull out my cell phone.
I bought mine in 96. I loved the minimalist style and mesh bracelet. Still runs great. It’s a smaller case diameter so my son wears it now. Still looks great too. (Btw in Denmark the g is silent)
I have a Skagen. Think it was around £100 (wife bought it). Different model though and slightly better all round than that one. Strap isn't a screw in but similar otherwise. The leather is comfy, I wore it to the office for a few months, the tan wore up fine. Case on mine is a matte black metal and seems more precisely made than yours. I've been quite happy with mine!
I treated myself to a Skagen. I showed it to a friend at work. I had one, he said. You’ll be replacing that strap in 6 months. Rubbish I said. 6 months later....oh you need a new strap? £45 please, said Skagen.
They are stylish, and very good looking. If one doesn't mind pre owned they are available on EBay for a song. I own a black bezel titanium one, and a white bezel with date stainless steel. Paid $14 U.S. for the black one, and $20 U.S for the white one, both in excellent condition. Both Japanese movement, I purchased metal straps to avoid the leather ones ripping, replacement leather straps are pricey.
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I must say, I discovered that Braun also had watches after seeing some of your videos. 😅 That second hand... Is very accurate, it's pointing right in the middle of the half... Pretty impressive.
I have a Skagen, purchased recently, which I really like. The finish is fine, and the strap even has two funky quick-release levers so you can swap it out without using a tool. I doubt anyone pays RRP. It's next to impossible for a human to make a quartz second hand line up correctly as the assembly is done by tweezers which will move the spindle. Quartz watches that do are generally made on fully automated production lines. I am happy to have mine (at least partly) made by humans.
Ben's Watch Club The straps held by grub screws is a definite weakness. I have a chronograph I bought used for very little money just as a curiosity, the slightly domed crystal was under great pressure internally so it shattered itself, which was suitably rectified. The lugs have closed ends (a point you made about the reviewed model) so there's a little "step" at each corner of the strap, and the strap is proprietary: blue rubber with steel insert. The rubber basically crumbled, I contacted the manufacturer and they said they no longer produce replacement straps, and the model was not supported anymore. I guess eventually I will make a custom strap for it.
I have a few Skagens. Grew up when businessmen wore minimalist watches and not watches that resemble chunky Christmas trees or combat watches. I wore a tux and top hat last Friday to a dance. Didn't have to bear a Rolex and did not want to wear a digital dive watch. The replacement leather bands are limited though.
I bought one of their watches back in 2017, model 809xltbn. It looks really pretty with it's blue dial and black coated titanium case and has a nice black metal mesh strap. But the downside is that it's not very legible, the print is too small and it's hard to read the time in bright sunlight. And when you're setting the time the hands move one way or the other, it's hard to set it perfectly. And of course the second hand misses the marks quite often. I paid a whopping 210€ for it, but the retailers do have quite a hefty margin here where i live. It was my first and last fashion watch, it looks kinda cool, but that's about it. I've learned my lesson since then and i'm now cemented at Seiko.
I work for a watch repair company and the strap is manufactured with a small metal plate in the screw base end, on AVG we find the strap gets replaced every 2 year, but are more half the cost of the watch. The movement is a Miyota.
For my 8th grade graduation, my parents bought me a Skagen. This was in 2001. It was my first metal watch (as it claimed it was Titanium), however, for me it was something I cherished. While I'm not sure if it'll hope up over time, I've had it since 2001, and it's continues to work. Although I wasn't a huge watch guy until fairly recently, this watch was my dress/nice watch. I still will wear it on occasion, but it's been overshadowed by my Seiko or Orient Bambino.
A few years ago I bought one for my mom. Nearly identical, except for the dial. Never again... The 2 worst things I have to say about it is: - the crown. If your fingers don't have Pirelli grip, you may need pliers to rotate that thing. - the strap. It's cheap, it's inevitably falling apart and I have to look for a replacement. No wonder that when I've got an F91w she was like "is for me"? I am glad she did, she deserves better than that.
I own a couple of early Skagen chronos - early 90s, 37ish mm? - that are still working to this day. Interesting point: I met a tourist once from Denmark who quickly corrected me when I asked him about my "Skagg-in" watch... "SKANE," he said, "It's pronounced, 'SKANE.' " 😉
Just picked up a skagen for $4 from my local thrift, it's in great condition and the leather strap is still very soft. I'd never buy it new as it's too pricey and would rather thrift more watches but in my opinion, the black label skagen isn't bad
This brand has been around for a long time. They were really popular in the mid-90’s. I picked one up for my occasional-wear-dress-watch. I had a small collection then. It lasted for a few years so I got my use out of it I suppose. They’re the same now as they were then… And I’m seeing price is right around $90 US...At that price you’re getting a OK quality fashion watch. One thing I will say is that they’re nicer and far better quality than a Daniel Wellington or MVMT watch(GARBAGE)!...If you want a minimalist quarts watch For a reasonable price I don’t think it’s a bad choice...I’d vote cool. Thanks Ben for another fun review!
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Watch Featured: geni.us/skagenancher
Alternative Skagen Mentioned: geni.us/skagenskw6433
Sternglas: www.sternglas.com/collections/naos-the-timepiece-2-0/products/naos
Junkers: geni.us/junkers100
The first watch I ever really liked was a Skagen. They were my entry into this God-forsaken hobby
Same for me; I'm a pre Fossil Skagen wearer. I quite like them. I like how thin they are, and even though I have quite nice watches, my Skagens are my beaters.
I agree with you. Ben doesn't really know what he has in his hands.
The model
This is a classic retro model, deliberately having the strap connections which he described as 'perculiar and interesting', this is actually TRADITIONAL way and as such is deliberately chosen. Not a standard Skagen feature.
Skagen brand
Skagen watches are very well known and respected brand and have been around for a really long time. They are thin and minimalistic, but great quality and durability. I have a 12 years old Skagen, works as well as the first day and looks awesome. People buy it for its unique design.
Me too.. glads skagen as my preference option gift during 10yrs service award.. very light watch
One of my first watches was a Skagen - very slim with a metal bracelet - ideal as it kept perfect time with no attention. It did take me several months to notice the date window though - so small that I needed a magnifying glass to read it! I love slim watches - I have a JLC Ultra thin Master and a Baume and Mercier Riviera Automatic which is the thinnest of the lot.
Same here! I still have mine
You know, I don't understand why more dedicated watch manufacturers don't make watches that look like this but with some actual quality behind them. Why isn't there a classy 39mm automatic Bulova with some Bauhaus styling? I'd pay a good $300 for that, instead they only churn out 44mm monstrosities. Or what about Citizen? Why do 90% of their watches look like they belong on a substitute teacher's wrist? Why do most entry level Tissots look like they pay the gas-guzzler tax? They should take a good look at what these fashion watch companies are doing design-wise and learn from it.
Maybe you could look into buying a Junghans Max Bill
"substitute teacher" lmao
Not even a "proper" teacher...
Good point on the design though.
Check out Bering
Dude the amount of absolute GAUDY ASS watches that come like an inch off the wrist from Bulova is just sickening. Too many Mall Specials.
Lmao @ substitute teachers. Hey now come on. More like a guy who wears a JC Pennys shirt they still fit into from high school to a wedding
I have 2 Skagen watches. 10 years old. They look great and are very different from the model you've chosen. Never failed.
I’ve had a Skagen as my everyday beater for 10 years. They are known to be super slim (even for a quartz) and usually under £100 each. Models and designs are changed every so often however they usually learn towards the minimal Bauhaus style. I think they are a great brand with a history.
Edit: Cool
Bosch is better
How we know it is working or not. Becoz it hasn't got second.
Killing me every time that second hand misses the second markers!
it looks alrite on my old skagen. wheres my 300$ tissot has that problem.
@@superviola88 it's the reason I tend to give quartz a miss, can't do it if it's not hitting the mark
I hate this not as much as I hate excessive bounce-back on second hands though.
No one cares about that, just wear it n its fine
@@FajarW.S Thanks for letting us all know that you're a wanker!
unlike DW and other fashion brands, Skagen has actual fashionable designs.
The pre-Fossil Skagens are pretty nice and I've never had a problem with my 809XLTTM Titanium. (I had it for almost 10 years) It is one of their best designs, it has won red dot design award in 2011. I don't like most newer Skagens, but I think that one is surely worth checking out!
The first watch I bought was a pre-fossil skagen, and it last me years, until it got stolen away from me
Adam Teket I bought a titanium about 5 years back. Are they really made of titanium?? I doubt...
Indeed the older Skagen watches where/still are pretty good ❤ Sadly most of the new models aren't anyway near what used to be - in general, one could say Skagen has changed for the worse, some times they still make a nice model though.
@@rinoldsadiku778 yes, they are made of titanium, but only the case, not the strap.
@@adamteket1461 ok got it, thank you for the reply
I can't unsee the seconds hand. If you are on budget, Casio is the best.
@The Truth How so? Is it not true that Casio offers good quality respectively in every price bracket? Even a sub-$20 Casio will last at least ~5 years with no problems whatsoever: appropriate battery life, appropriate case materials, straps, pushers, they won't break down on you easily.
And if you're happier in the $50, $100, $200 brackets, it'll be the same.
@@MJFallout Thoughtful comment. Casio have excellent Marketing Executive staff, who clearly understood that the prime task is to ensure that the Business makes a profit. That's not only done in their Wrist Watch sector, it's done across the Company's entire product range. That's why Casio gets such positive YT reviews. Phil.
@The Truth No they are not, they offer good value for money. I own several of them from the cheaper ones to a couple of G-Shocks I own. Casio are the leading brand in electronic watches.
Casio duro make other quartz watch in shame.$60 for second hand align accurately to the markers
Yes, for the same price I just bought a Casio Edifice chrono that is very nice considering I go for high end but I wanted a simple daily and it's quality. The second hands spot on too.
Almost bought a Skagen when I first got into watches. Glad I chose a Seiko instead.
The second hand hit the middle of each marker precisely! They should learn to exploit that by adding more markers!
Skagen is a US based company, founded in the US. The couple moved here from Denmark. I received my first Skagen in 2003 after I got out of the army, it's still running. I own 4 of them at this point. I can't speak to the quality of Daniel Wellington but for the price points I've purchased my skagens at, they're worth the money if you like minimalist style watches.
Which watches do you own?
@@jonaspao9070 I Skagen, Sieko, Gant, Triwa, Oris, Timex and a Christopher Ward. There are 2 high end watches I've put on my wish list. A moonphase, either a JLC or Glasshute Orig. and a GoS
@john rodenbaugh do you mean Skagen is better than DW ?
I bought my wife one in 2011 and it's still ticking today. I'm actually surprised of how long it has lasted. Perhaps the build quality has gone down when it was acquired by Fossil in 2012? I dunno but the 2011 watch was a great buy.
hariharan sankar want to know the same
I received a Skagen quartz as a gift in 1995. It’s still running well but rarely worn. I believe it was
Yeah, back then they made decent fashion watches. I still have a couple of their watches laying around somewhere.
I have a Skagen Signatur. bought it 15 years ago because it was beautifully simple and very slim. I have no reason to regret it and would recommend it as a dress watch any day.
I had a Skagen Hybrid (Bluetooth linked, sub-dial for notifications from phone, nice little feature to skip tracks on phone when using media player). Paid £75 for it I think - still going strong, build was pleasant for the money. No complaints. A nice stepping stone when coming off a pure smartwatch (Microsoft Band) and led onto 'proper' watches.
Have some Skagens from the pre-Fossil days, before I really got into watches. Never had a problem with durability or function. The design back then was less minimalist and, to me, far more interesting. My wife has some and enjoys hers. Thanks for the well balanced vid...looking forward to more!
Cheers Evan!
I got 2 Skagen on my collection, the first one was opened to replace the battery and would never close back due to imperfection on the bezel, the second one has been a everyday use for 2 years now and still looks good. after 2 battery replacements and some polish work it still looks brand new. I do thinks is a good watch, sleek, and elegant, but I wouldn't pay too much for them either.
I have to say my experience with Skagen has been very good. Granted, I only own two of their watches but I haven't experienced the QC and finishing issues you highlighted. Perhaps I'm just lucky but I consider them to be a major step above the DWs and MVMTs of this world. I have to agree the strap design on yours is strange. My two use a milanese strap with quick release spring bars and it feels very solid. As for the seconds hand....lol I always go for a small seconds or no seconds design with cheap quartz, so as not to have to deal with dodgy alignment.
I have one and I thought it was great υntil I bought my first decent watch. In fairness, they have a certain aesthetic and they are very light and easy to wear. A good entry to the world of watches.
This one is uncool, the price is quite high for the typo of watch, Skagen has better designs for lower prices
True-That. :)
I first found Skagen when searching for 'thin watch' on Google back in 2004. I love their design sense, and have forgiven their Fossil ownership as a result. If you collect, or just appreciate, watch designs that reflect creativity, and aren't a slave to only considering Seiko or Swiss movements, there are looks Skagen offers that are great. Ben's critique of the strap reflect more of his biases to the 'typical' than valid criticism. I like the novel lug/strap design.
Comparison to Daniel Wellington is laughable -- since Skagen preceeded the DW junk in the market and reflects far better design.
Late response but as a watch repairer ive learnt that these watches, although aesthetically pleasing, are a very bad design from the strap fitment (ben is absolutely right. we are endlessly ordering skagen straps from the fossil group to replace customers old torn straps) and the biggest problem being that the caseback is smaller than the dial size. Meaning that repair becomes very difficult as theres lots of room for extra damages when you have to open up the front of the watch via the crystal to replace the movement etc.
A good and very fair minded review. I confess I have bought a couple of the older ones as gifts, but its a niche. They are not something that will be an heirloom, or go swimming with you, or that you can gaze at and ponder enjoying the workmanship ( (which I can do with my Victorinox despite it being quartz), but for a pretty, minimalist, Bauhaus style design gift, they are good if you can get them well under 100 AUD. Of course if you are about to parachute somewhere east of Kandahar, one chooses a Casio G Shock or a Vostok Amphibia. :)
Was about to buy this watch for 60 euros. Seems a bit of a better deal at that price, but glad I didnt in the end. Rather have a Seiko 5 for a bit more. :)
too each his own, but i find seiko 5 ugly (can they remove that "5" branding for goodness sake). whereas skagen has the attactive bahaus design
make that a made in japan version....and you can`t go wrong.....
If you like the Skagen design go for it.
I'd rather have a nice quartz watch than a cheap mechanical. Except of course if you don't care for time telling.
Cheap mechanical watches are a marketing trick.
I love my Skagen watch, I got it for Christmas and it’s the most comfortable watch I’ve owned so far
I have an automatic Skagen. I've had it for over 15 years and it has never missed a beat!!!
I just bought one, hope it was worth it. My 1st watch buy. I do love the design I purchased💙
Picked one of these up for $12. Strap had torn through the little screws. Fixed it with glue and thread reinforcement. This strap type doesn't pivot, so it will conform less to your wrist than a similar 45mm lug-width watch with traditional lugs.
The glass on mine is scratched, but not easy to replace. Despite the snapback for battery access, I think it's a front loader, and there's no easy way to get that crystal out. I suppose I could smash it, or maybe try the air pressure method. And the snapback on these Skagens is super hard to remove, as mentioned in the video!
For looks, it's slimmer and sleeker than a Timex weekender, and much quieter too, but less serviceable. I like that it has a date, but the date window is super tiny.
As the other commenter said, it was a Danish couple living in the USA that started the brand, all USA owned now, the "Denmark" is just den-marketing.
Not bad at $12, any more than that not really worth it unless you love it.
Great production as always, thanks for the review!
Just a Dane passing by. When pronouncing Skagen, you don't say the G/it's silent, so it's pronounced Skaen if you wanna say it the Danish/"the right way".
Continiously
Edit: Skagen is the tip of Jutland near Kattegat(for Vikings series fans out there)
That's amongst the worst aligned second hands I've seen, to the point where it looks deliberately aligned in between markers. For better or worse
That's quartz for you. Best to do is always to get watches without a second hand, can't have a second hand miss the markers if you don't ahve a hand at all 🧐
I have six Skagen watches. They are all decent time keepers and they look sleek. Personally I can't fault them
I am a skagen collector past 20+ years. I love them.
My first watch I bought from a department store was Skagen and I've grown to like the brand through the years. I am a computer IT guy and my hands need to fit into small computers, so I like the thin watches. I must have a dozen Skagen watches by now. Other than replacing batteries I've never had a problem with any of them.
Finally someone who talks honestly about these fashion watches and tells it straight: IF you get them for 50 $/€, they're fine. Just don't pay them retail price and don't expect 'em to last forever.
I've had nothing but good service from Skagen watches. I think they are the best looking watches on the market at their price points, by a wide margin.
I got one second hand for $48. Great buy, with a design and color scheme that I could not get from Japan.
I love Skagen brand. The most important factor for me is that they are nickel-free.
No skin irritation, and very elegant. Terrific brand.
This exact watch is my first watch. Loved it. Surprisingly, the strap holes used to attach the strap to the watch weren't the first part to go, the genuine leather is actually just a layer of leather that split apart after 3 years
Since I went to Copenhagen on a trip just over 3 years ago I wanted a Skagen watch as a souvenir. They're all about style. They looked over-priced in Denmark so I didn't get one. Last December, in a watch clearance shop in Swindon UK I bought a GBP159 Skagen "Melbe" with day and date and metal mesh bracelet reduced to just GBP39. At that price it was an excellent buy, so slim, light and fits my small wrist perfectly. It's good at time-keeping too. I'm very happy with mine and at that price, it was basically a give-away
I just replaced the battery on my daughter-in-law's Skagen SKW 2151. The quartz movement is in fact a Japanese Miyota Super GL30 (at least on this model).
I had this one for years and gave it to my daughter. She wears it all the time. The band has come into a nice patina and darkened nicely. No problems with anything so far. thumbs up here. Incidentally, my son bought me a Fossil last year and its almost the same thickness etc. but in blue face. Good too for the price.
I looked into how to say Skagen and I believe it's - Skayin - like "stay in". I liked these watches a lot before I knew about watches. First I saw of them was in the Harrington Catalog as a really thin watch. Enticing pieces.
Definitely recommend the Sternglas quartz - super slim, light and a really comfortable strap that seems to be made of really decent leather. Oh, and domed sapphire. Keeps time well, as you'd expect from the Ronda movement. All in all, happy. If you need a second hand it doesn't have that - it doesn't bother me!
Great rundown of the details and features. I've got a few Skagens (definitely paid less than what the MRP was on the video) and all have been reliable and overall, pretty durable. And as he said: they look great. If anything they "look" far more expensive than they are, though that's not why I buy them: It's the clutter-free minimalist styling, and thin profile that is the appeal.
My Titanium Skagen is fantastic. The strap is very easy to change and the fit and finish is great.
Ben, I purchased the Skagen 233XXLRLB, black dial, rose gold case and hands, in January of 2013 for 66 USD. And this because I was tired of pulling out a phone when walking to the train station.
Being rather naive, I showered with the watch daily which eventually destroyed the screw-in leather strap. And I'd pay about 30 USD for a Skagen replacement--if I can find one.
Love the Skagen design, especially the thin case. Still wearing this watch with the thin leather upper being the only part of the band left. Cool. Cheers.
Remember looking at Skagen watches in the Copenhagen airport during one of my transits from Beijing to Paris
Uncool. You could go Timex or Casio for cheaper, or upgrade to Citizen or Seiko for a bit more.
Timex is the epitome of uncool.
And yet this looks so much better
I kinda like Timex designs, though Casio makes more durable models for less money. Nowadays i go for ultra dirt cheap China brands. Abuse it like crazy and they still go on. If it stops, i have a few more in my drawer.
The case backs on these are amazingly difficult to open and reclose. I have removed backs on literally hundreds of different types of watches and these hold the crown for the hardest to deal with. You have to be very careful replacing the back too so you don't crack the crystal.
The bands do hold up reasonably well. There are also versions that use a quick release strap.
Skagen started it all for me. I still have the 806XLTBN titanium I bought as a grad student when I was struggling and couldn't afford anything. It means the same to me as a few of the grails I've acquired along the way.
I can speak on the durability of the straps Ben. I once owned a Skagen Ancher with a black leather strap. While my wrist is not too wide, the strap simply broke off of the watch case from the point where it was screwed down after two months of daily use. Fair to say, that was my first and last Skagen watch. As you stated in the video, this is probably a tactic to get customers to spend more money on their in-house straps, which are advertised quite prominently on their website.
I have a Skagen watch that I bought around 2005 for about $80. It has a blue dial and 34mm titanium case with a stainless steel mesh bracelet. The movement is a Japanese quartz. What really caught my eye was the blue dial and the very slim profile. At that time, there simply was no other watch like it as far as I could see. It is very light weight and almost feels like there's nothing on the wrist when I wear it. I have gotten lots of compliments from people when I wore it. There is a deep scratch on the case, which probably means Skagen used grade 2 titanium. Overall, I am really happy with it. I don't wear it much any more simply because I've just out grown this style.
What surprises me is that Skagen still makes many watches in this exact style after so many years. The case sizes are larger but the overall shape, build, and styling are identical as far as I can see. There are only minor styling differences on the dial.
-Okay, how long did that take?
-Other man looks at his skagen watch, " 2 minutes and 10.5 seconds".
But "Skagen" does sound kind of cool, luxurious and exotic, no? ;-)
@Joey. I think that is a relevant comment. In Australia the brand has been sold through inner city Lifestyle stores for at least the last 30 years. I remember that because the watch displays always caught my eye. Phil.
In Italy, definitely not.... Sounds like you shat yourself.
gianniwasabi You should go to the town of Skagen in Denmark and tell people that
@@Alagathevictor th-cam.com/video/zRRpLLey6WU/w-d-xo.html
No, A.Lange & Söhne sounds cool, luxurious and exotic
I purchased Skagen 15 years ago and still it’s the same …hands down best watch
The Skagen titanium watches are durable and can take a beating. They're nice looking, they are ultra thin, they have Japanese Miyota movements, and I get many compliments on them. I have been wearing them for 15 years, I never think of taking the Skagen off before working on machinery, and they polish up great with a Dremel tool. Say what you like, I'm wearing one now and loving it. And should I trash this one they are cheap to buy on the net. My other watches (which were gifts) are a Rolex gold and stainless, and a Maruice LaCroix stainless steel with and ETA movement.
Got to say the watch I liked most in recent years and still wear regularly is a Skagen. This was my next best ever to a Timex I was given as a 13th birthday present sometime last century! It now vies with an Orient and a Rotary. No complaints whatsoever and still the best dress watch in my eyes.
I always liked your take on the watches that are on the affordable (and not only) section and not taking the path of being kind to the review. As for this one personally I'd probably put it on the garbage side of the wall because although the strap is quite interesting the way is set up it just seems so disencouraging to trust, the fact that you don't have the ability to know what the exact movement is (let alone to even say replace the battery), the fact that the second hand does not align is a definite reason to put it on that side of the wall. Also the price too. I guess it takes a serious research to find something on that range and even if you end up paying slightly more at least you'd get something far more better. Anyways. Keep it up Ben.
Bro sick vid. Again, you don’t get the recognition you deserve. Should have 500k subs
Agree
Replacment bands are readily available. I have no trouble removing the case backs. I've had to change many skagen batteries over the years. The trick is to use a chisel - yes, really. They're very sharp and will bite the lip and have lots of leverage.
I have many high end watches too but love how slim these are and how they hug your wrist. Some are more "huggy" than others.
I should have mentioned that I had a favorite and wore it every day for years. The leather actually wore in quite well to a lovely patina. I think some of your assumptions here are in error.
I've got two Skagens, a blue dial chrono with a similar band to this one, and a "dive-style" blue/black combo (to it's credit it does have a screw down case back and crown). The lume is crap, but the second hand on both hit their markers and given their slim profile are just comfortable to wear. I picked them both up at killer deals on sale, the chrono for $15 and the diver for $25, and at those prices it's hard to argue against. The chrono is also among the few times I've gotten a compliment on a watch, over watches many times them in value, so there's that I guess lol.
Lovely video, I think it's really important to talk/educate about the disadvantages of some of these fashion brands and talk about the better, more affordable and more heritage pieces you can get from companies such as seiko for example. On a side note, I've been watching the likes of you and some other Watch You tubers and its inspired me to make a channel of my own would really appreciate it you ever get the time to give one of my video's a quick look and any pointers/hints on starting out would be greatly appreciated! Great video as always and looking forward to the next one!
You’re right- “leather” straps worn out very quickly, but not the screw ends, but where they buckle. Bought it for nice THIN profile! Got lots of compliments ~ until the thin crystal glass was cracked! Didn’t even notice that I must have knocked it somewhere. Too bad, I liked it .
Fantastic designs from Skagen!
Just wish they put in a TAD more effort!
50m resistance and a bit better build quality isn't too much to ask
I got a Skagen in the mid 00s as my first "adult watch". I loved the minimal design, light and flat built and fine milanese band. It probably was the piece that got me into watches. I wrote a design study on it for a school assignment back then and have been interested in watch design ever since. Unfortunately the glass broke at some point and I broke the band.
My wife purchased me a Skagen back in 2007 when I got back from Iraq. I still have it. It's a titanium. She has one as well when they used actual diamonds.
My wife loves her Skagen watch I bought her in 2011. It's still ticking today. She loves the minimalist design and it's really sturdy for a thin watch. I dunno about the build quality after it was acquired by Fossil in 2012 though but the one I bought is a really great buy.
Quick note, the brands founder was from Denmark but was living in the US at the time they established the company so it was technically an American company. I bought a Skagen in 2006 prior to the Fossil acquisition, I was in my early 20s and it was one of the first watches I ever bought myself. Bottom line up front, it's not complete garbage but I would not buy another from them. I paid just under $100 US and I still have it today. It's a black painted (powder coated maybe?) titanium 37mm case with a black metal mesh bracelet, reference number T233XLTMN. The quality is average at best, much like the current model in the video the second hand does not align on the second markers and over time the black paint has begun to wear off of the bracelet though only slightly. The paint has rubbed off of the clasp significantly. The case back is extremely difficult to open and I also scratched the watch attempting to change the battery. The back lists only "Japan Quartz Movement". It seems over time and after the acquisition very little has changed. the watch still functions as well as it ever did so I would not call it a rip-off or garbage but I would also not recommend it as a first choice. Having owned this watch for roughly 15 years i can say that you can probably feel safe buying one with the expectation that it will not stop working within a year or two, but I wouldn't pay more than maybe $75 at the most. What they ask for as their MSRP is ridiculous. This would be a safe bet to buy discounted through a third party as long as you know it's a legit sale. Honestly though, there's better out there for the money.
for £100 watch I wouldn't expect it to last forever.
If I get two years out of it I'd be happy.
It actually a beautiful item to both wear and look at.
the shot at 6:44 is so cool
A real shame that Casio Sapphire is discontinued. Brilliant looking quality watch.
Yeah, I bought a Skagen early in my watch obsession. I was attracted to the stylish minimalist dial design. Sadly, I found the proprietary grains-of-rice strap was not really replaceable, and was way too short for my 7 3/4 inch wrist.
At the time it wasn't returnable, so it sits in a drawer unworn.
The dial designs are fine for such a cheap watch, but the weird, non-standard straps are a deal killer.
personally I've found a good deal with their skagen hagen watch, 0 issues for now at least. plus I got it for under 50 dollars
I have 4 Skagens. I have never paid more than $60 for one. At that price I don't think they are bad. I have 2 with the leather strap and they have worn well and haven't had any issues with the way they are attached. The backs are definitely tight. You can't put them on without a press. I think their designs predate the DWs and such and I think they go with the Danish heritage. Just my opinion.
Have pre fossil skagen and it is excellent. I still buy skagens as gifts for friends/family, they all love it. You should have reviewed the mesh band skagen
Well, its nice having someone covering Skagen... frankly. This brand was one of my gateway drugs.
I had one from pre-Fossil era. On the caseback it was stated that movement was Japanese, Miyota very probably. It was a decent one for the price.
I fixed a Skagen watch for my mother. The minute had fallen off.
It used a Miyota GL10 movement with date at 6 o’clock. Replacement movements cost a few dollars, so they must be under $1 in quantity.
There is nothing wrong with the GL10. It will keep accurate time and likely last the life of the case it's in. It's probably going to be tossed well before wearing out.
I just looked up a video on changing a skagen battery and the guy just used a knife under the protruding part to lift it off. No unscrewing or anything. I guess you already know that but I thought I’d comment just in case.
I actually got a skagen on a mesh bracelet as a present over ten years ago. I was skeptical at for but I’ve worn it a lot and still got it. I just get my local jeweller to do the battery changes.
I have five Skagen watches, none of which have the screw-attached strap.
I'm not sure why he's focused on this particular model.
They are affordable, minimalist and modern. Great watches for those of us who have no desire to own a Rolex.
I have a skagen Melbye, it's made of titanium and stainless steel, also can confirm the miyota movement I guess every brand has its good and bad watches, however yes, it's a fashion brand
Nice review. As long as you can get the watch at the right price its alright.
I have had a Skagen Signatur Minimalist Men's Watch with Stainless Steel Bracelet, Mesh for about a year and love it. I am not bothered in the least by the not perfect alignment of the second hand with the dial. If I want time to the exact second, I pull out my cell phone.
Nice hair Ben!
I bought mine in 96. I loved the minimalist style and mesh bracelet. Still runs great. It’s a smaller case diameter so my son wears it now. Still looks great too. (Btw in Denmark the g is silent)
I have a Skagen. Think it was around £100 (wife bought it). Different model though and slightly better all round than that one. Strap isn't a screw in but similar otherwise. The leather is comfy, I wore it to the office for a few months, the tan wore up fine. Case on mine is a matte black metal and seems more precisely made than yours. I've been quite happy with mine!
I treated myself to a Skagen. I showed it to a friend at work. I had one, he said. You’ll be replacing that strap in 6 months. Rubbish I said. 6 months later....oh you need a new strap? £45 please, said Skagen.
They are stylish, and very good looking. If one doesn't mind pre owned they are available on EBay for a song. I own a black bezel titanium one, and a white bezel with date stainless steel. Paid $14 U.S. for the black one, and $20 U.S for the white one, both in excellent condition. Both Japanese movement, I purchased metal straps to avoid the leather ones ripping, replacement leather straps are pricey.
I must say, I discovered that Braun also had watches after seeing some of your videos. 😅
That second hand... Is very accurate, it's pointing right in the middle of the half... Pretty impressive.
I reckon cool, even though there are better quality watches the Skagen is an interesting unique tasteful representation of Scandanavian design
I have a Skagen, purchased recently, which I really like. The finish is fine, and the strap even has two funky quick-release levers so you can swap it out without using a tool. I doubt anyone pays RRP.
It's next to impossible for a human to make a quartz second hand line up correctly as the assembly is done by tweezers which will move the spindle. Quartz watches that do are generally made on fully automated production lines. I am happy to have mine (at least partly) made by humans.
Ben's Watch Club The straps held by grub screws is a definite weakness. I have a chronograph I bought used for very little money just as a curiosity, the slightly domed crystal was under great pressure internally so it shattered itself, which was suitably rectified. The lugs have closed ends (a point you made about the reviewed model) so there's a little "step" at each corner of the strap, and the strap is proprietary: blue rubber with steel insert. The rubber basically crumbled, I contacted the manufacturer and they said they no longer produce replacement straps, and the model was not supported anymore. I guess eventually I will make a custom strap for it.
I have a few Skagens. Grew up when businessmen wore minimalist watches and not watches that resemble chunky Christmas trees or combat watches. I wore a tux and top hat last Friday to a dance. Didn't have to bear a Rolex and did not want to wear a digital dive watch. The replacement leather bands are limited though.
I bought one of their watches back in 2017, model 809xltbn. It looks really pretty with it's blue dial and black coated titanium case and has a nice black metal mesh strap. But the downside is that it's not very legible, the print is too small and it's hard to read the time in bright sunlight. And when you're setting the time the hands move one way or the other, it's hard to set it perfectly. And of course the second hand misses the marks quite often. I paid a whopping 210€ for it, but the retailers do have quite a hefty margin here where i live. It was my first and last fashion watch, it looks kinda cool, but that's about it. I've learned my lesson since then and i'm now cemented at Seiko.
I work for a watch repair company and the strap is manufactured with a small metal plate in the screw base end, on AVG we find the strap gets replaced every 2 year, but are more half the cost of the watch. The movement is a Miyota.
For my 8th grade graduation, my parents bought me a Skagen. This was in 2001. It was my first metal watch (as it claimed it was Titanium), however, for me it was something I cherished. While I'm not sure if it'll hope up over time, I've had it since 2001, and it's continues to work. Although I wasn't a huge watch guy until fairly recently, this watch was my dress/nice watch. I still will wear it on occasion, but it's been overshadowed by my Seiko or Orient Bambino.
A few years ago I bought one for my mom. Nearly identical, except for the dial. Never again...
The 2 worst things I have to say about it is:
- the crown. If your fingers don't have Pirelli grip, you may need pliers to rotate that thing.
- the strap. It's cheap, it's inevitably falling apart and I have to look for a replacement.
No wonder that when I've got an F91w she was like "is for me"? I am glad she did, she deserves better than that.
.. I just got one for $35 .. SKW6649 .. quartz, very good lume, mesh stainless steel strap .. love the orange vibes
I own a couple of early Skagen chronos - early 90s, 37ish mm? - that are still working to this day.
Interesting point: I met a tourist once from Denmark who quickly corrected me when I asked him about my "Skagg-in" watch... "SKANE," he said, "It's pronounced, 'SKANE.' " 😉
Ben, can you make a video of your own personal collection?
Just picked up a skagen for $4 from my local thrift, it's in great condition and the leather strap is still very soft. I'd never buy it new as it's too pricey and would rather thrift more watches but in my opinion, the black label skagen isn't bad
Great video! This is my first time hearing of this brand.
This brand has been around for a long time. They were really popular in the mid-90’s. I picked one up for my occasional-wear-dress-watch. I had a small collection then. It lasted for a few years so I got my use out of it I suppose. They’re the same now as they were then… And I’m seeing price is right around $90 US...At that price you’re getting a OK quality fashion watch. One thing I will say is that they’re nicer and far better quality than a Daniel Wellington or MVMT watch(GARBAGE)!...If you want a minimalist quarts watch For a reasonable price I don’t think it’s a bad choice...I’d vote cool.
Thanks Ben for another fun review!