What, What, What? You mean I shouldn't make the classic: "if only it..." comment on a watch I have no intention and/or the wherewithal to buy? You just eliminated 99.9% percent of watch youtube comments.
One more tip: If you really want a watch and it's a stretch for you financially, wait 6 months and see if you still really want that watch. Most often, the urge fades.
I get to that point and then start doing hours and hours of research on how to paint/relume dials, looking at the CNC process to make a single piece of metal that would complete the aesthetic, or trying to figure out how to replace the mainspring in a movement because I want to the winding mechanism to feel sturdier… then I remember I have to formal education or expertise in watchmaking and close the dozens of tabs I have open on my computer lol
@BlakeValenta for what it's worth, Rolex pays students $1800 a month to go to their school in Dallas and learn to be a watchmaker. Tuition free 18 month program with no obligation to work for Rolex when you finish. They also pay for a trip to Geneva for your final exam.
true, but most of the time hyped watches are the watches that we all tend to like, probably hype just speed up the process of you starting to liking that watch 😅
Most of my higher end watches are magical in the beginning and then lose it but a 19 year old Reverse panda Navitimer at 41mm makes me feel like when I first got it. As much as I like my seamasters and Tudors my Navi is probably my only keeper other then my wife😂
@@WatchCrunchOfficial and budget is irrelevant, also if you know how to fix them it's an amazing brain exercise! Take an old piece and make it look like it's nearly worn and make it tick again! Priceless!
I am a watch enthusiast living in Japan, and this video struck a chord with me, and I felt it was a bit of an eye-opener. There is no such thing as a perfect watch." A watch is a tool, not a piece of jewelry." These two words have stuck with me and will stay with me forever. Thank you for teaching me something important.
I went through various stages of loving only high end, Chinese homage, mid tier, and microbrand. Now my collection has a bit of all of those. I enjoy my cheaper San Martin and microbrands as much as my JLC and other high end pieces. But always buy within your budget. You're not really missing out on much if anything staying low and mid.
It’s funny you say that. It’s the same for me. I focused on high end for years. Only Omega, Grand Seiko, Rolex Cartier etc… I’ve sold most of my collection and thoroughly enjoy some of the micro brands I own. I believe it’s a necessary journey to understand what you want and what matters. My unimatic is one of my most worn watches now
@@floridaman727 Nice! For me it was Omega (x2), Tudor (x2), Breitling (x2), a high-end TAG Heuer heritage and a JLC - as my first 8 watches. My current three San Martins are true homage watches and not 1:1 clones like many on AliExpress, which is an important distinction for me. They all improve on things that I actually like better in the San Martin vs the homaged piece. It seems that San Martin really listen to what customers actually want in their watch. As for the micros - I love their passion and perseverance, and I like to root for the underdog, and also have something a bit more unique than the average Joe. There's also some gems here and there in the mid-tier.
I kind of agree with your sentiments but disagree with homages. I don’t buy too many watches but buy them to commemorate certain events in life and so far only have 5 watches and will never sell any watches. Just keep and try to get fixed. My issue with microbrands and aliexpress watches is after sales support like getting it fixed legitimately and assured. I will have to find watchmaker that service their movements and can get parts. Not an issue with my Rolex, Tudor, Citizen, and Wenger. I have yet to delve into higher horology watches because of sticking to budget around my income level. I don’t want to use a watch that I can’t reliably find someone to maintain as a marker of my life. I actually have 6 if i count a San Martin that turned to be lemon that I can’t find someone who fix it.
@@jakealexander6046 I hear you on support. I have had some dud San Martins. One had a very poorly regulated movement. Another had arm hairs of a factory worker under the caseback(!!) - big thick hairy arm hairs definitely not mine - but an easy fix. One had a misprinted dial (where 6 o'clock was not in alignment with the pinion and 12) and one had a misaligned rotating bezel, so it's not all good. But they are getting better. I do watch mods so was able to regulate the movement, and also fix the rotating bezel. The misprinted dial is just something I copped. Overall what you get for the money is exceptional. With SII(Seiko) NH35 movement - I can easily swap that myself as I have the tools and know-how to do movement swaps and regulate movements, but I totally get that's not everyone's cup of tea. Homages are a personal preference. A lot of "homages" are actually "clomages" and I am not a fan of those. I like the homages that say "that's a good design, but we can do things a little differently, and a little better". I like that.
@@jakealexander6046 most San martin watches use the NH35 movement or something similar. You can always buy the movement separately and replace/swap the old "lemon" movement and any watchmaker can do that with ease.
Hell yeah! I'm really looking forward to seeing what Breitling are going to do with UG! A solid yellow gold modern polerouter might become my grail/exit piece!
Good video, I think your videography has gotten a lot cleaner and better. I really liked the “appreciate your watch for what it is, not what it’s lacking”
I just shared this video with my watch friends aficionados. Every you said here is so right on point! Makes me feel so good about my watch journey! Thanks 🙏🏻
@@WatchCrunchOfficial It's still the Seiko Alpinist that I started with and I still wear it everyday. I like looking at it under different lighting conditions. I have also swapped out the original dull strap for a reddish brown leather strap and that seem to just bring it to life. Another watch (not yet in my possession) which has won my heart with its dial is the Grand Seiko Snowscape (SLGH013). It looks better in real life than in photos.
great advice, wish I knew all of this before I insanely spent tens and tens of thousands of dollars from 2018 !! currently doing a shake down and have 3 x 10 k watches (GS's) and 10 vintage seikos which I adore probably even more than my expensive ones. Had expensive Omegas and 3 new Rolexes, TAG'S etc pass through my hands. Don't miss them, just can't wait to finally consolidate my collection and if the itch surfaces, carefully evaluate the itch and perhaps !! make a buy. thanks for your channel.
One thing I have learned is to go see the watch in real as much as possible. The difference can be huge from what the watch appears to be in the photos. I didn't like the Serica 4512 in the photos at all, I found the bezel way too large and disproportionate. Once I saw it in the shop, I was blown away, I loved it, I hadn't even noticed in the photos that the hands were brushed which adds even more to the toolwatch spirit. Additionally, only in RL could I feel the depth of an enameled dial. I bought it and it hasn't left my wrist for a year now.
Thanks for your feedback. Yes new watch collector and learning to fix watches. At times I feel I’m buying too many watches or get that FOMO on limited edition. After watching allot of TH-cam videos, I feel I’m getting more focused on what I want.
Came here from a Watchfinder video as I was looking for no-nonsense TH-camrs and this channel was mentioned. This video confirms this looks to be an amazing channel. Subbed.
Sorry but not sorry to point this one out - at 4:39 it says '5.THE PERFECT WATCH DOEN'T EXIST!' Just like our watches, a little imperfection is OK and takes nothing away from this amazing video. I truly appreciate the video for what it is and the message it is trying to convey. Great work, Max!
Can't believe you have am ostrich watch band! That is so hard to come by. I live in the ostrich farming part of the world and never saw one in shops. These straps can last forever!
Awesome video and love how you explained about grail watches. They don’t exist and the fun is more in the chase. Once you obtain it, honeymoon period does pass and like you said, the game ‘resets’ all over again 😂😅
all great points, i especially agree with number 1. my favourite and most worn watch is my Seiko SRPG35, despite having watches worth multiple times its value. and it kind of ties into what you said in point number 5, appreciate a watch for what it is, not what it lacks.
Last year I bought the Tudor Blackbay P01. It is not the perfect watch, but I love it. It is different. A bit industrial, but still luxury. Not my most expensive purchase, but the one I enjoy the most.
I recently just got back into watches and decided to buy a rubber strap for my Tag Heuer Aquaracer and I can’t believe how much I like it. I feel like I have a whole new watch, even my wife loves it.
Great video, love #6 and #7, Watches make great gifts; (I refreshed my collection end of last year giving away about 10 watches to guys I saw didn't wear watches, and blessed others, and the joy is in seeing others enjoying them, and #7 changing straps is changing my watch journeys. I started slowly, but now it's like getting new watches all over again!
I bought a watch from amzwatch lightly used for my last milestone birthday. Don't wear it as much as it deserves, but not afraid to, either. It's stunning . Good taste, Sir.
My first time watching one of your videos and extremely helpful. I have that collector gene so I’ve gone from firearms to pockets knives to whiskey to cigars to watches. All those journeys helped me understand what I truly want and this video kind of re-enforced it. Great work. A Subscribe to follow.
4:06 did that when I was working in a multi-discipline integrated project office. He was wearing the Steinhart sub, a clear indicator that he is a WIS.
What a great video! All very reassuring tips, and the video spews us on to continue our watch journey while being proud of every piece that comes our way.
I just got into watch collecting. I've loved watches since I was young but I never had anyone teach me or bring deeper into the world. amzwatch brought closer to a community and hobby I always wanted to get into more and that is incredibly meaningful to me !
Thanks for the video and great advice. I'm currently in the middle stage(again). Lucky for me, this time I know that there is no grail watch to have and I can admit that I have a problem (lol). With that being said I'm enjoying the journey a whole lot more.
Tip # 10: you should have a beater watch, it's the designated hitter that keeps the rest of your collection in good shape. Personally I have a $30 Casio for that purpose but it can be anything, just pick one to wear when you're doing things that might damage your watch. That way you won't have a collection of beat up watches.
Fabulous list, Max. If I could add one more here, it would be, "understand *why* you like what you like." Yes, it might sound a little too much like how-the-sausage-is-made, but: thecmore you can get a handle on just what flips your proverbial switch with a given model, the better-informed your future purchases might be. Today, I had a bit of online banter with someone about a watch we both have: Seiko's 5 Sports GMT, the SSK003 specifically. I've owned this watch closing in on a year and a half, and I'm still just as jazzed by the thing as I was the day it arrived. For me, this is crazy-rare: it's not that I don’t like the watches currently in my collection, but the giddiness-factor usually settles down within one to three months. That hasn't been the case with this watch, and I think I (mostly) know why...but there's still an "X-factor" here that eludes me a bit, what I called a secret-sauce that I don't think Seiko has even in some of their pricier offerings. But Ibthink I have most of it sussed, and I keep this in mind whenever I'm paying unusually clise attention to a new release.
Max, loved the video. Also love that you admitted the sub took a loss. Far too many of us in the hobby won’t admit the L’s. I lost like 1K on my 114060 and am I happy about it? No. Still love the watch
@@WatchCrunchOfficial I also bought an Explorer whilst not at the peak, far too overpriced vs what it is now (it's still going down) but I don't really care as it turns out it'll be the last thing i'll sell before getting homeless ! Appreciate that you mention the loss, when you hear some they only make profit and it's not even on purpose. Meh...
Totally agree with the band change ... Same thing wirh my S&W J-frame revolvers ...I change the utilitarian grip for a classic or tactical and voilá...a totally brand new piece comes out. I have 7 different grips for my 5 shot revolvers.
As I love cars I bought a Carrera Heuer 01 (43mm, non-skeleton dial) back in 2017. I've been wearing it ever since on a daily basis in rotation with my SMPc (41mm, black lacquer dial). I pair my SMPc with a suit jacket to the office. It's an awesome GADA (go anywhere, do anything) watch. Fortunately I haven't lost money on either of them, but I've never viewed a timepiece as an investment.
#1 for me is the lineage and understanding the movement and functions. Tons of high priced luxury brands use universal movements and they slap their name on the rotor and call it theirs. Always go in house, understand the pros and cons, complications, and what you want to use it for, and try to find unique models. Example 1, brietling superocean heritage, the predecessor to the current B20 has a ETA movement breitling calls their b17. Solid, easy to work on, but PR at 42, doesn’t cut the current gen b20 Tudor movement capping 120 hrs. It’s $1000 less grey but the Tudor movement is much better. I happily spent the extra money for the longevity of the watch. Example 2 I really wanted a GMT and a grand seiko. I got the GS elegance GMT. While I love the cream dial and finish, lacking a quick set date drives me crazy. It stays on the shelf because of that. Fast forward to a Rolex GMT 16700, I wear that all the time. Example 3. Really wanted a vintage Pepsi. After research, the sweet spot was the 16700 transition these with the unique Swiss only dial. Little things like that set your watch apart from the rest. From a value proposition previous year gmts and the next gen gmts probably will be worth a bit less. Bottom line, understand the lineage, understand the movement, research the manufacturer and the usability, and any collectible nuances, and you’ll have that watch forever.
I guess it's a blessing to not have the financial power to pull on a purchase watch immediately, thinking THIS IS THE ONE. What I realized is what you once loved might not be the case when you revisit your wishlist. Honestly, I thought my grail watches would be Tudor black S&G, Cartier Santos Medium and maybe a Rolex Datejust 126234. However, 4 years later, my watch selection has taken on a more practical standpoint, rather than just solely focusing on beautiful dials and nice straps. Im currently going for situations-based selection that is really helpful because it forces you run through a more detailed selection process. Now, I'm going for Tudor black bay steel (daily beater watch), 1970 Tudor Prince Day Date/ Cartier Santos Galbee XL (dressy, in the mood), Omega constellation/ Kuoe Royal Smith 90-006 (Casual dress watch). Lets see how this changes over the years.
i got into inhouse movements but now i like eta because you can service it anywhere, vs inhouse, some repair shops dont have the parts if theyre not authorized dealers.
I just got into watch collecting. I've loved watches since I was young but I never had anyone teach me or bring deeper into the world. mamacoo brought closer to a community and hobby I always wanted to get into more and that is incredibly meaningful to me !
I love the Omega Railmaster 1957. I suppose I could afford it, but honestly I’d rather spend my money on other things like my family. I purchased the San Martin homage to this watch (SN0113-G). The level of finishing is fantastic and it looks amazing on a high quality (Barton) black horween leather strap. One of my most worn watches. I do take the idea of “to each his own” seriously…but I still don’t understand why some people put so much value on the movement, especially if it’s hiding behind a closed case back.. The NH35 in this watch is inexpensive, easy to replace and ticks away reliably.
I only recently purchased my first luxury watch, an Omega Speedmasters 3570.50. My late father's birthday was July 21 and as a young boy he told me that remembering the day that man walked on the Moon will remind me of the date.
Very good advice I would add that one’s taste changes over time. Don’t eliminate a watch permanently. Sometimes I find myself coming back to a watch over and over again. Also try before you buy when possible. Perhaps best to avoid buying watches you’ve never seen let alone wear on your wrist.
Lots of "limited editions" are trying to make a virtue out of necessity. It is not hard to find limited editions with 5% of total production for sale on line.
All top advice. I pick (& only have 5 - none more than $2500 list) one based on my mood & what Im doing and/or wearing. Six watch investors didnt like the investment advice. If you wanna buy a watch and hold onto it for 20 years hoping it's worth the time & cost it's best to it keep brand new.
Perfect comments, I also love my less expensive one as those who I have to invest much more....all of them have their characteristics and a special reason to love them....those who I figure it out that I don't love, I just sell them!!
I have a Pasha I bought myself in 98 & a Speedmaster I acquired 8 years ago and I absolutely love them but I find myself wearing my GShock Square more. I just love the design and everything about it. 🤷🏽♂️
Love this video, I am a fan of your guy next door vibe and the fact that I agree with most of the things you say. I just bought my first seagull st19 movement and I love it, it's my first hand wound mechanical watch so I'm still getting used to it, but at the price for a chronograph it's excellent. I am also digging my Seiko 5 GMT SSK with the bright yellow dial. In order to make it more practical, I swapped the bezel insert from the 24hr it came with to a 60min diver bezel, since I already have the 24hr markers on the chapter ring and I really don't need 3 timezones being tracked.
I bought a Glycine Combat Sub GL0083 to wear while my Rolex Explorer II 16570 was in for service. Now that my Rolex is back, I do miss wearing the Glycine.
Outstanding video , and advice. I have gotten over most of the mistake, made them before😂. My biggest problems are. .......too many watches, and where to wear them. I work in agriculture, farm. Have no problem wearing sla divers, ti planet ocean, oemga railmaster to work. Tool watches. My gs sbga111 with the flawless case, other special ones, cant use them other than after work. Grail , or new watches, always on the hunt, but reality has actually set in. I get as much enjoyment from my 20 yr old orange dial seiko samurai, or a monster, as my black birch. It is not the cost, it is the enjoyment, and memory of each watch.
My biggest watch mistake was, very early on in my watch collecting journey, thinking that Invicta was a good brand. When I look back at several Invicta watches that I purchased, I cringe at how tacky, oversized and overpriced they were. Thankfully, I encountered channels like Teddy Baldsarre's, Watchfinder & Co, the Time Teller, Frederico Talks Watches, Jenni Elle, etc. to elevate my taste and purchasing habits.
@@Aoelx I am glad to see that I am not the only one who made such a blunder. I spent hundreds of dollars, buying Invicta's cartoonish and gaudy watches at their retail stores - all of which have closed in the various malls in my area. In a way, despite regretting my foray into Invicta watches, I have to give the company credit. Invicta got me into the watch collecting hobby.
It takes experience (through errors) to be able appreciate a simple watch for what it is. Not the brand on it. And without it needing to be perfect in any way. My preferred watch is a cheap $120 manual winding Chinese one, bauhaus design, that accommodate a lot of straps some double its price, and the second one is a G-Shock DW-9052. I still have Cartier watches (my Tank is my third preferred watch!), Breitling ones, Grand Seiko, etc. and the Universal Genève '56 of my grand father.
This was a fine video; thank you. I disagree with some assertions for instance I don't wear my new collectable watches. I could but I like my iWatch so its what I wear unless traveling (ship bound) in which case I wear my first "buy" an affordable bulova. I'm this way with other collectables though too; be it fountain pens or firearms.
'Appreciate a watch for what it is, not for what it's lacking!' - This mindset is everything in this hobby
Took me too long to learn!
So important because one watch can not have everything, sounds obvious but yet I miss it a lot
What, What, What? You mean I shouldn't make the classic: "if only it..." comment on a watch I have no intention and/or the wherewithal to buy? You just eliminated 99.9% percent of watch youtube comments.
@@davidr2802 🤣🤣🤣
This comment how I feel about my made-In-Japan g-shock.
One more tip: If you really want a watch and it's a stretch for you financially, wait 6 months and see if you still really want that watch. Most often, the urge fades.
Waiting for my love of Daytonas and APs to fade for years
Oh, how true this is!
Mine never fades haha
Tried wait for a Daytona. Now its tripled the price 😂😂😂
@@meetseth3 Go to a store and try it, it will fade
I eventually ended up in the "no watch is right for me, so I'm not going to buy any more watches" ... I've been in this stage for two days now
Make it to one week and report back 🤣
@@WatchCrunchOfficial It's on!
I get to that point and then start doing hours and hours of research on how to paint/relume dials, looking at the CNC process to make a single piece of metal that would complete the aesthetic, or trying to figure out how to replace the mainspring in a movement because I want to the winding mechanism to feel sturdier… then I remember I have to formal education or expertise in watchmaking and close the dozens of tabs I have open on my computer lol
@BlakeValenta for what it's worth, Rolex pays students $1800 a month to go to their school in Dallas and learn to be a watchmaker. Tuition free 18 month program with no obligation to work for Rolex when you finish. They also pay for a trip to Geneva for your final exam.
@@ArugulaJones woah that is awesome. I’ve never actually looked into it but that would be really cool to do
Watch mistake no.1: follow hypes instead of your own taste
Unfortunately hype often forms our taste so difficult to separate.
@michaelriera6277 only few are given the strength to form their own taste
true, but most of the time hyped watches are the watches that we all tend to like, probably hype just speed up the process of you starting to liking that watch 😅
Bingo
Most of my higher end watches are magical in the beginning and then lose it but a 19 year old Reverse panda Navitimer at 41mm makes me feel like when I first got it. As much as I like my seamasters and Tudors my Navi is probably my only keeper other then my wife😂
Collecting watches is not a monetary investment. Collecting watches however is an investment in your happiness ❤
Well said!
@@WatchCrunchOfficial and budget is irrelevant, also if you know how to fix them it's an amazing brain exercise! Take an old piece and make it look like it's nearly worn and make it tick again! Priceless!
My girlfriend rolled her eyes at me when I told her this 😢😂
Joined watch crunch. Has been a great place so far . Good people
Great to hear 🍻
I concur
I am a watch enthusiast living in Japan, and this video struck a chord with me, and I felt it was a bit of an eye-opener. There is no such thing as a perfect watch." A watch is a tool, not a piece of jewelry." These two words have stuck with me and will stay with me forever. Thank you for teaching me something important.
I went through various stages of loving only high end, Chinese homage, mid tier, and microbrand. Now my collection has a bit of all of those. I enjoy my cheaper San Martin and microbrands as much as my JLC and other high end pieces. But always buy within your budget. You're not really missing out on much if anything staying low and mid.
It’s funny you say that. It’s the same for me. I focused on high end for years. Only Omega, Grand Seiko, Rolex Cartier etc… I’ve sold most of my collection and thoroughly enjoy some of the micro brands I own. I believe it’s a necessary journey to understand what you want and what matters. My unimatic is one of my most worn watches now
@@floridaman727 Nice! For me it was Omega (x2), Tudor (x2), Breitling (x2), a high-end TAG Heuer heritage and a JLC - as my first 8 watches. My current three San Martins are true homage watches and not 1:1 clones like many on AliExpress, which is an important distinction for me. They all improve on things that I actually like better in the San Martin vs the homaged piece. It seems that San Martin really listen to what customers actually want in their watch. As for the micros - I love their passion and perseverance, and I like to root for the underdog, and also have something a bit more unique than the average Joe. There's also some gems here and there in the mid-tier.
I kind of agree with your sentiments but disagree with homages. I don’t buy too many watches but buy them to commemorate certain events in life and so far only have 5 watches and will never sell any watches. Just keep and try to get fixed. My issue with microbrands and aliexpress watches is after sales support like getting it fixed legitimately and assured. I will have to find watchmaker that service their movements and can get parts. Not an issue with my Rolex, Tudor, Citizen, and Wenger. I have yet to delve into higher horology watches because of sticking to budget around my income level. I don’t want to use a watch that I can’t reliably find someone to maintain as a marker of my life. I actually have 6 if i count a San Martin that turned to be lemon that I can’t find someone who fix it.
@@jakealexander6046 I hear you on support. I have had some dud San Martins. One had a very poorly regulated movement. Another had arm hairs of a factory worker under the caseback(!!) - big thick hairy arm hairs definitely not mine - but an easy fix. One had a misprinted dial (where 6 o'clock was not in alignment with the pinion and 12) and one had a misaligned rotating bezel, so it's not all good. But they are getting better. I do watch mods so was able to regulate the movement, and also fix the rotating bezel. The misprinted dial is just something I copped. Overall what you get for the money is exceptional. With SII(Seiko) NH35 movement - I can easily swap that myself as I have the tools and know-how to do movement swaps and regulate movements, but I totally get that's not everyone's cup of tea. Homages are a personal preference. A lot of "homages" are actually "clomages" and I am not a fan of those. I like the homages that say "that's a good design, but we can do things a little differently, and a little better". I like that.
@@jakealexander6046 most San martin watches use the NH35 movement or something similar. You can always buy the movement separately and replace/swap the old "lemon" movement and any watchmaker can do that with ease.
"You'll smile every time you see them wear it" can't agree more man, it's so true
It’s definitely a journey. I enjoy wearing my more affordable/cheaper watches over the expensive ones. From a Casio, Tudor and Omega owner
That's right! 👍
feels great indeed to see a gifted watch being regularly worn. One of the truest satisfaction I've experienced in this hobby
That Universal Genève is stunning
Hell yeah! I'm really looking forward to seeing what Breitling are going to do with UG! A solid yellow gold modern polerouter might become my grail/exit piece!
Great video my guy. Those are 9 gems you just dropped on us. Bravo. 👏
Appreciate that ☺️
Good video, I think your videography has gotten a lot cleaner and better. I really liked the “appreciate your watch for what it is, not what it’s lacking”
Couldn't agree more! I've been collecting for years. I've noticed my collection began to reflect my age.
I just shared this video with my watch friends aficionados. Every you said here is so right on point! Makes me feel so good about my watch journey! Thanks 🙏🏻
My most loved watch is not the most expensive one, it tends to be the one with the best looking dial that you don't get tired of
Totally 💯
Which watch is it?
@@WatchCrunchOfficial It's still the Seiko Alpinist that I started with and I still wear it everyday. I like looking at it under different lighting conditions. I have also swapped out the original dull strap for a reddish brown leather strap and that seem to just bring it to life. Another watch (not yet in my possession) which has won my heart with its dial is the Grand Seiko Snowscape (SLGH013). It looks better in real life than in photos.
@@2hu0Seiko always have the best dials. Regardless of price
@@2hu0 Solid choice. I like the green+gilt alpinist.
great advice, wish I knew all of this before I insanely spent tens and tens of thousands of dollars from 2018 !! currently doing a shake down and have 3 x 10 k watches (GS's) and 10 vintage seikos which I adore probably even more than my expensive ones. Had expensive Omegas and 3 new Rolexes, TAG'S etc pass through my hands. Don't miss them, just can't wait to finally consolidate my collection and if the itch surfaces, carefully evaluate the itch and perhaps !! make a buy. thanks for your channel.
Great video, I've gone through all the stages and can now enjoy the rest of the journey
One thing I have learned is to go see the watch in real as much as possible. The difference can be huge from what the watch appears to be in the photos. I didn't like the Serica 4512 in the photos at all, I found the bezel way too large and disproportionate. Once I saw it in the shop, I was blown away, I loved it, I hadn't even noticed in the photos that the hands were brushed which adds even more to the toolwatch spirit. Additionally, only in RL could I feel the depth of an enameled dial. I bought it and it hasn't left my wrist for a year now.
Thanks for your feedback. Yes new watch collector and learning to fix watches. At times I feel I’m buying too many watches or get that FOMO on limited edition. After watching allot of TH-cam videos, I feel I’m getting more focused on what I want.
Came here from a Watchfinder video as I was looking for no-nonsense TH-camrs and this channel was mentioned. This video confirms this looks to be an amazing channel. Subbed.
Watches make great gifts!. My son loves jazz and decided to pursue that so naturally I got him a Hamilton Jazzmaster
Sorry but not sorry to point this one out - at 4:39 it says '5.THE PERFECT WATCH DOEN'T EXIST!' Just like our watches, a little imperfection is OK and takes nothing away from this amazing video. I truly appreciate the video for what it is and the message it is trying to convey. Great work, Max!
Well said. I have bought several grails over the years, but the journey continues. Have fun with it.
watch guys will never be happy with what they have. Point proven.
What an amazing outcome for a beautiful watch. Always a pleasure to see amzwatch work your magic. Thanks for sharing this transformation with us!
Can't believe you have am ostrich watch band! That is so hard to come by. I live in the ostrich farming part of the world and never saw one in shops. These straps can last forever!
Awesome video and love how you explained about grail watches. They don’t exist and the fun is more in the chase.
Once you obtain it, honeymoon period does pass and like you said, the game ‘resets’ all over again 😂😅
all great points, i especially agree with number 1.
my favourite and most worn watch is my Seiko SRPG35, despite having watches worth multiple times its value. and it kind of ties into what you said in point number 5, appreciate a watch for what it is, not what it lacks.
Last year I bought the Tudor Blackbay P01. It is not the perfect watch, but I love it. It is different. A bit industrial, but still luxury. Not my most expensive purchase, but the one I enjoy the most.
It’s definitely unique. Enjoy it!
I recently just got back into watches and decided to buy a rubber strap for my Tag Heuer Aquaracer and I can’t believe how much I like it. I feel like I have a whole new watch, even my wife loves it.
Really appreciate the vibe of your channel. Haven’t commented in a while, but I’m still enjoying the content.
The zero pass has become my go to nato for all my Hamiltons. Thanks for the design.
I think this was one of your best videos. Thanks for this!
Great video, love #6 and #7, Watches make great gifts; (I refreshed my collection end of last year giving away about 10 watches to guys I saw didn't wear watches, and blessed others, and the joy is in seeing others enjoying them, and #7 changing straps is changing my watch journeys. I started slowly, but now it's like getting new watches all over again!
I bought a watch from amzwatch lightly used for my last milestone birthday. Don't wear it as much as it deserves, but not afraid to, either. It's stunning . Good taste, Sir.
My first time watching one of your videos and extremely helpful. I have that collector gene so I’ve gone from firearms to pockets knives to whiskey to cigars to watches. All those journeys helped me understand what I truly want and this video kind of re-enforced it. Great work. A Subscribe to follow.
Some really great advice here. Definitely wear what you like and connect with watches in your own way. Thanks for the video!
Newer collector here!
Thanks for your videos!
Since the budget is tight I’m trying to open my horizons on brands and some interesting facts.
Great video ! Thank you … I’m beginning to fall in love with my Bulova jet star ⭐️
Really great video - down to earth and informative! Keep it up!
4:06 did that when I was working in a multi-discipline integrated project office. He was wearing the Steinhart sub, a clear indicator that he is a WIS.
Once you buy your grail watch, another grail watch will quickly take its place. It's a vicious cycle 😂
My favorite watch channel without a doubt.I’m happy to spend my money on MAMACOO watches. I’ve never been let down by their products
What a great video! All very reassuring tips, and the video spews us on to continue our watch journey while being proud of every piece that comes our way.
Excellent advice. I can't make any other suggestions. Thanks!
They say a wise man learns from the mistakes of others. Thank for an informative video. 🙏
I just got into watch collecting. I've loved watches since I was young but I never had anyone teach me or bring deeper into the world. amzwatch brought closer to a community and hobby I always wanted to get into more and that is incredibly meaningful to me !
Thanks for the video and great advice. I'm currently in the middle stage(again). Lucky for me, this time I know that there is no grail watch to have and I can admit that I have a problem (lol). With that being said I'm enjoying the journey a whole lot more.
2:05 *Scandinavian Airlines System, but thanks anyway! 😉
Tip # 10: you should have a beater watch, it's the designated hitter that keeps the rest of your collection in good shape. Personally I have a $30 Casio for that purpose but it can be anything, just pick one to wear when you're doing things that might damage your watch. That way you won't have a collection of beat up watches.
Fabulous list, Max. If I could add one more here, it would be, "understand *why* you like what you like." Yes, it might sound a little too much like how-the-sausage-is-made, but: thecmore you can get a handle on just what flips your proverbial switch with a given model, the better-informed your future purchases might be. Today, I had a bit of online banter with someone about a watch we both have: Seiko's 5 Sports GMT, the SSK003 specifically. I've owned this watch closing in on a year and a half, and I'm still just as jazzed by the thing as I was the day it arrived. For me, this is crazy-rare: it's not that I don’t like the watches currently in my collection, but the giddiness-factor usually settles down within one to three months. That hasn't been the case with this watch, and I think I (mostly) know why...but there's still an "X-factor" here that eludes me a bit, what I called a secret-sauce that I don't think Seiko has even in some of their pricier offerings. But Ibthink I have most of it sussed, and I keep this in mind whenever I'm paying unusually clise attention to a new release.
That opening bottle with the watch gave me a heart attack😅
😵
Can open a bottle of Pepsi 😅
He's a good sport 😎
I love my 29mm 1949 Hamilton. Small af and I love it
Max, loved the video. Also love that you admitted the sub took a loss. Far too many of us in the hobby won’t admit the L’s. I lost like 1K on my 114060 and am I happy about it? No. Still love the watch
Hey, you haven't lost if you haven't sold right? 😉
@@WatchCrunchOfficial I also bought an Explorer whilst not at the peak, far too overpriced vs what it is now (it's still going down) but I don't really care as it turns out it'll be the last thing i'll sell before getting homeless ! Appreciate that you mention the loss, when you hear some they only make profit and it's not even on purpose. Meh...
I'm genuinely impressed with how close amzwatch were able to replicate every aspect of this very very goofy looking classic watch.
Great advice! 💯 enjoy the journey!
Agreed!
Totally agree with the band change ...
Same thing wirh my S&W J-frame revolvers ...I change the utilitarian grip for a classic or tactical and voilá...a totally brand new piece comes out. I have 7 different grips for my 5 shot revolvers.
As I love cars I bought a Carrera Heuer 01 (43mm, non-skeleton dial) back in 2017. I've been wearing it ever since on a daily basis in rotation with my SMPc (41mm, black lacquer dial). I pair my SMPc with a suit jacket to the office. It's an awesome GADA (go anywhere, do anything) watch. Fortunately I haven't lost money on either of them, but I've never viewed a timepiece as an investment.
Wise words. Hopefully, above all-have fun. It’s a great hobby.😊
#1 for me is the lineage and understanding the movement and functions. Tons of high priced luxury brands use universal movements and they slap their name on the rotor and call it theirs. Always go in house, understand the pros and cons, complications, and what you want to use it for, and try to find unique models.
Example 1, brietling superocean heritage, the predecessor to the current B20 has a ETA movement breitling calls their b17. Solid, easy to work on, but PR at 42, doesn’t cut the current gen b20 Tudor movement capping 120 hrs. It’s $1000 less grey but the Tudor movement is much better. I happily spent the extra money for the longevity of the watch.
Example 2 I really wanted a GMT and a grand seiko. I got the GS elegance GMT. While I love the cream dial and finish, lacking a quick set date drives me crazy. It stays on the shelf because of that. Fast forward to a Rolex GMT 16700, I wear that all the time.
Example 3. Really wanted a vintage Pepsi. After research, the sweet spot was the 16700 transition these with the unique Swiss only dial. Little things like that set your watch apart from the rest. From a value proposition previous year gmts and the next gen gmts probably will be worth a bit less.
Bottom line, understand the lineage, understand the movement, research the manufacturer and the usability, and any collectible nuances, and you’ll have that watch forever.
I guess it's a blessing to not have the financial power to pull on a purchase watch immediately, thinking THIS IS THE ONE. What I realized is what you once loved might not be the case when you revisit your wishlist. Honestly, I thought my grail watches would be Tudor black S&G, Cartier Santos Medium and maybe a Rolex Datejust 126234. However, 4 years later, my watch selection has taken on a more practical standpoint, rather than just solely focusing on beautiful dials and nice straps. Im currently going for situations-based selection that is really helpful because it forces you run through a more detailed selection process. Now, I'm going for Tudor black bay steel (daily beater watch), 1970 Tudor Prince Day Date/ Cartier Santos Galbee XL (dressy, in the mood), Omega constellation/ Kuoe Royal Smith 90-006 (Casual dress watch). Lets see how this changes over the years.
i got into inhouse movements but now i like eta because you can service it anywhere, vs inhouse, some repair shops dont have the parts if theyre not authorized dealers.
I just got into watch collecting. I've loved watches since I was young but I never had anyone teach me or bring deeper into the world. mamacoo brought closer to a community and hobby I always wanted to get into more and that is incredibly meaningful to me !
I love the Omega Railmaster 1957. I suppose I could afford it, but honestly I’d rather spend my money on other things like my family. I purchased the San Martin homage to this watch (SN0113-G). The level of finishing is fantastic and it looks amazing on a high quality (Barton) black horween leather strap. One of my most worn watches. I do take the idea of “to each his own” seriously…but I still don’t understand why some people put so much value on the movement, especially if it’s hiding behind a closed case back.. The NH35 in this watch is inexpensive, easy to replace and ticks away reliably.
Those Anachronist straps are cool. I sure wish they came a little bit longer for those of us with wrists over 7.8" !
I only recently purchased my first luxury watch, an Omega Speedmasters 3570.50. My late father's birthday was July 21 and as a young boy he told me that remembering the day that man walked on the Moon will remind me of the date.
Watch Crunch is great! True watch fans and always great content
You are soooo right. Just wear, what makes you happy. It is what watch collecting is all about.
Thank you for making high quality videos!Love amzwatch ’s watches
Very good advice
I would add that one’s taste changes over time. Don’t eliminate a watch permanently. Sometimes I find myself coming back to a watch over and over again.
Also try before you buy when possible. Perhaps best to avoid buying watches you’ve never seen let alone wear on your wrist.
Do not fall for a 'limited edition' cash grab. Buy only if you like the watch.
Good call 🤙
Lots of "limited editions" are trying to make a virtue out of necessity. It is not hard to find limited editions with 5% of total production for sale on line.
Love treat watch collecting as a journey. Fully agree…great video.
Max, my birthday is coming up in August FYI
All top advice. I pick (& only have 5 - none more than $2500 list) one based on my mood & what Im doing and/or wearing. Six watch investors didnt like the investment advice. If you wanna buy a watch and hold onto it for 20 years hoping it's worth the time & cost it's best to it keep brand new.
Fantastic video. Thank you for the sound advice.
Perfect comments, I also love my less expensive one as those who I have to invest much more....all of them have their characteristics and a special reason to love them....those who I figure it out that I don't love, I just sell them!!
Really great advice for any watch collector
I love your perspective. Thanks
Wear your watch(es) is great advice. Crazy to get these amazing little machines and not enjoy them.
I started my watch journey recently. Thanks for the advice.
Welcome! Hang on for dear life 😅
@@WatchCrunchOfficial Right?! I've set a cap at $500.
Great content 🙌🏻 mostly “wear you watch“ with the bottle opening 😅. Get going 🚀
I have a Pasha I bought myself in 98 & a Speedmaster I acquired 8 years ago and I absolutely love them but I find myself wearing my GShock Square more. I just love the design and everything about it. 🤷🏽♂️
I already have a moon watch but now I want that soccer chronograph. Didn't know it existed!
I just seen the moon watch today and omg I want it baaaaad!!!!
Best vid I've seen on watches. All the advice is perfect.
Love this video, I am a fan of your guy next door vibe and the fact that I agree with most of the things you say. I just bought my first seagull st19 movement and I love it, it's my first hand wound mechanical watch so I'm still getting used to it, but at the price for a chronograph it's excellent.
I am also digging my Seiko 5 GMT SSK with the bright yellow dial. In order to make it more practical, I swapped the bezel insert from the 24hr it came with to a 60min diver bezel, since I already have the 24hr markers on the chapter ring and I really don't need 3 timezones being tracked.
Another excellent video. Thanks. BTW - What’s on your wrist in this clip?
Every scratch on a watch always has an interesting story behind it 😊
Thanks for those tips, really appreciated
I bought a Glycine Combat Sub GL0083 to wear while my Rolex Explorer II 16570 was in for service. Now that my Rolex is back, I do miss wearing the Glycine.
Good stuff, Max. Screw the hype and trends - wear what you like. ❤
Fantastic advice! Thank you.
Outstanding video , and advice. I have gotten over most of the mistake, made them before😂. My biggest problems are. .......too many watches, and where to wear them. I work in agriculture, farm. Have no problem wearing sla divers, ti planet ocean, oemga railmaster to work. Tool watches. My gs sbga111 with the flawless case, other special ones, cant use them other than after work.
Grail , or new watches, always on the hunt, but reality has actually set in. I get as much enjoyment from my 20 yr old orange dial seiko samurai, or a monster, as my black birch. It is not the cost, it is the enjoyment, and memory of each watch.
Great vid & #5 is just perfection
The perfect Tudor is Black Bay GMT rootbeer - Amaizing watch on the brown leather strap
When it comes to fine imitation watches, amzwatch delivers. I've bought from them several times, and I've never been let down.
My biggest watch mistake was, very early on in my watch collecting journey, thinking that Invicta was a good brand. When I look back at several Invicta watches that I purchased, I cringe at how tacky, oversized and overpriced they were. Thankfully, I encountered channels like Teddy Baldsarre's, Watchfinder & Co, the Time Teller, Frederico Talks Watches, Jenni Elle, etc. to elevate my taste and purchasing habits.
Same, I thought I made great deal looking at their “retail” price 😂😂😂
@@Aoelx I am glad to see that I am not the only one who made such a blunder. I spent hundreds of dollars, buying Invicta's cartoonish and gaudy watches at their retail stores - all of which have closed in the various malls in my area. In a way, despite regretting my foray into Invicta watches, I have to give the company credit. Invicta got me into the watch collecting hobby.
It takes experience (through errors) to be able appreciate a simple watch for what it is. Not the brand on it. And without it needing to be perfect in any way.
My preferred watch is a cheap $120 manual winding Chinese one, bauhaus design, that accommodate a lot of straps some double its price, and the second one is a G-Shock DW-9052.
I still have Cartier watches (my Tank is my third preferred watch!), Breitling ones, Grand Seiko, etc. and the Universal Genève '56 of my grand father.
I love my WW Seiko. But to your point, I wish the date wheels matched both colors on the dial.
This was a fine video; thank you. I disagree with some assertions for instance I don't wear my new collectable watches. I could but I like my iWatch so its what I wear unless traveling (ship bound) in which case I wear my first "buy" an affordable bulova. I'm this way with other collectables though too; be it fountain pens or firearms.