Best watch style to buy? The style that got you excited about watches in the first place, and the style of watch that excites you today. Different styles can work in different occassions, the only thing that really matters is whether you are excited about it.
Nice sentiment but ultimately an unhelpful one when suggesting someone's FIRST watch to buy, implying they lack any real watch experience or exposure to different styles to have a style preference
Field watches are what actually got me excited for watches in the first place. I love dive watches too. Now, these are the only two styles I tend to own.
I always see posts or videos about dive watches but I just cannot find any of them beautiful. I like the idea of a dive watch and the technicity of them but I just don't like the looks. I wish I did but I just don't... However, I adore dress watches with a clean dial. I'd buy dozens of them if I had the money
Teddy is one of the most educated and well spoken TH-camrs I've seen. For example on his second point anybody else making a video like this would just say "you can wear it with a suit or with a t shirt it works with everything" but Teddy gives a credible, thought out analysis of his point. I want to have dinner with this man.
@@mineblock9024 I get that a condescending opinion can at times be applied with some merit, but in this instance I disagree. What you see as verbosity, others see as information about their interest delivered by one of the least offensive yet erudite watchtubers out there.
After a study I went for Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra. Such a simple and clean design for a perfect everyday watch. The true diver would be too much for me.
Agreed. As an every day or one watch, something like the AT dresses up better than any true dive watch. Unless you really need a rotating bezel, which hardly anyone does these days.
I bought my Casio Duro as my first “dive” watch (the black dial and gold bezel variant) and I absolutely love it!!!!! It really does everything well from the affordability stand point (under $100) since at first I was iffy about the style of it (which I ended up loving), durability (my Duro has survived Vegas pool water, Kayaking/swimming in ocean water, and everyday use out of water), and wearability (you can really dress it down or even up!)! Just from this, it really opened up my eyes to see other dive watches out there! Also thanks to you teddy I would have never known about the Duro so I thank you 🙏🏽
I agree. As the watch guy in my circle of friends it's what i always recommend 1st. It has the wrist presence , utility/durability and looks all in one watch. Plus with a variety of case sizes available for most wrists, you should be able to find the right one.
True, i actually am a diver, i never intend to dive with the watch though. For me it’s important that the watch lasts generations, i want my grandchildren to inherit it, i want it to survive adventures, kayaking, forgetting to take it of on the occasional shower. That’s a dive watch.
I have a few 300m dive watches and they look on from the kitchen counter as I was the dishes they’re scared of water and don’t ever wear them when it’s raining 😅😂
After watching many videos from you, i bought a quarz watch from seiko, steel bracelet (Seiko SUR311P1) and i am very happy with it. 10bar, Saphire Crystal, very versatile, incredibly accurate (+-0sec in 2 months) A Perfect daily driver for me.
Also bought the SUR309P1 and it is the most versatile watch on my collection. The white or black dial would have suited better for my needs but I was on the blue dial wagon. I love it anyway!
The initial appeal of dive watches to me brought me to get into scuba diving! Happy to have found a newfound love of the sport thru my love of dive watches
I’ve always like dive watches. The watch that caught my eye when I was 14 was a Omega Sea Master. I finally bought it back in 1992, a Quartz Sea Master. A lot of m people thought at the time it was because Pierce Brosnan wore it in Golden Eye, but no. I saw it at a catalog, and also my first in person encounter was a friend’s dad who was a Marines Fighter Pilot wore it. I can’t even swim well, but I have a fascination with dive watch. I now also have Planet Ocean and a Submariner. I’ve also have a Casio Dive and a couple Glycine Airman in my collection. I think the Luminox and Orient dive watches are on ky wish list. I think many low cost watches are just as good.
I'm impressed by the variety of topics Teddy finds to talk about regarding divers' watches; it's enjoyable to watch. I just need something that keeps showing me all these pieces while I think about which one to get...
Thank you for addressing the general trend of dressing more casual. I think that is key to the argument that I nice dive watch can literally be worn with anything. Heck, just wearing a “real watch” (i.e. not a smartwatch) will get you by with probably anything you will wear that’s not a tuxedo.
Starting to see more smartwatches with suits too. I currently wear my Garmin Fenix nearly everywhere because I like the functionality. It's just too big to wear with a suit, though.
My friend was looking for a first watch but also most probably an Only Watch as well. I suggested for him to get a seiko 5 field with the bracelet. That thing has everything! Legible easy to read dial, day and date function, surprisingly good luma, reliable movement, hacking and hand winding, decent bracelet, all of that for 270 euros including tax. He is so happy with it and I'm so glad he listened to my advice to get the right watch and not rush things.
Just got into the watch world, when my late father left me he’s omega seamaster deville from 64, way to small at 33mm, but my interest was lit, and seeing the beautiful seamaster 300 heritage model, but not really Abel to justifie the cost, as a first trail watch, I went for the Baltic aquascaphe blue dial, similar looks and I’m sold. Now that I started looking, at especially Teddy’s channel, I found a world filled with amazing pieces, and I think the journey just began. Thanks for the insightful and knowledgeable advice, that you bring, to watch noobs like me. Ps:still an Omega guy by heart….
I too inherited an omega from my father, when he died last year, he left me his omega seamaster professional 300 it’s the newer model with the 8800 movement 👍🏽 I’m an omega guy too, also a Hamilton guy as well, I love my Hamilton’s as well :)
I am currently going back and forth on what my first and possibly only mechanical watch should be. A field watch fits my current style better, but as something that will last me the rest of my life and probably be handed down to my son, I think a dive watch would be more timeless and versatile.
Good video, as always. Dive watch is a solid choice due to its durability and wide range of choices. Another excellent choice would be a field watch. Not as bulky as a diver, which is a plus for many people. I have found that most field watches are more comfortable to wear all day than most divers.
Great video. I went the other way. I got a dress watch first, as I like them more. Finally got a dive watch this week. Never really liked their look until recently. Went with a Citizen Promaster Diver.
Teddy, Great video and great recommendation! As a geezer who remembers both Lloyd Bridges and Jacques Cousteau on TV, I will admit a diver was the first watch I coveted and the real first watch I owned - the Bulova Devil Diver. Today my collection includes other watches and other styles, but divers and field watches remain my “go to” watches.
Teddy you have done many informative and enlightening videos about watches. But none top this one about the strength, endurance, and beauty of dive watches. Bravo!👏🏽 .
Thank you Teddy for that deep dive (pun intended) into what distinguishes a dive watch from other types of watches, and how these distinctive features give it the most versatility, justifying why a dive watch should be part of every watch enthusiast's collection. The production value you put in your instructional videos is by far some of the best among TH-cam channels that specialize in horology. Kudos to you and your filming and editing team.
I agree with the dive watch being the perfect starting point. I think field, or pilot's watches are better for most people, but I get that dive watches are more popular.
Having watched and subscribed to you for years, its amazing to see the growth you have had and the brith of your retail site! Congratulations and well deserved. Small ask, can you do a 'wrist watch check' before you do your videos? Its fun to see what you are wearing and I spend most of the video trying to make it out anyway... :)
I am a die hard fan o dive watches. But in my opinion best style for the first watch is the one we like to most + the one that will go the best with our day to day outfits.
I’ve been watching your videos. Very informative. I find it curious that you’re probably the only TH-camr that avoids speaking about Invicta. You do mention it’s competitors, but ignore invicta 😊
My first automatic dive watch was a Squale 1521 blue ocean and is still the best case design i have ever come across. Even when i just owned quartz they were dive watches and Citizen and Accurist. Though i think my first ever watch was a casio F91W. I would argue a Casio square is almost perfect in many ways....
I've got a soft spot for the Casio F-108 and Casio as a whole ! I regret throwing out my original 108 after the strap broke . I look at well worn watches becoming Talismans . Still have my basic training watch (Timex) and Army graduation watch (Elgin titanium m/d/h) which I still adore 🥰
I purchased a bronze Zelos Mako a couple years ago as my first watch. I wear it every single day (on a NATO strap) and it's a perfect tool/everyday watch. When I need to dress up a bit, I can polish it to a shine and put it on a classy black leather strap. I don't know if I'll ever need another watch.
I've worn a Timex Ironman about 99% of the time for over 25+ years. (An Accutron Quartz dive-type watch for dress up with suits purpose under 1% of the time). Was already thinking about buying a Seiko solar dive watch. This video probably helped me make up my mind. Appreciate the video. And btw, I saw the videos with Kevin O'Leary. Red band kinda guy 😊. "You gotta have a style" ...Maybe I'll pick yellow...let's have a "bright + sun shiny day".
I agree with all these points. I couldn’t quite explain why I’m drawn to dive watches, and you’ve just articulate it really clearly. Off to pick up my Black Bay 58 tomorrow ☺️
@@soulsphere1749 People forget, if they think it's obtrusive there are other styles. I have a supercompressor and the bezel is under the crystal. It's as smooth as any sports watch.
Omega Seamaster Aqua Tera is the perfect jumping off point, it’s the ultimate everyday watch, it fits with a suit, it’s 150m water resistant, can’t be easily beaten.
@@Czeron01 the latest iteration of the AT bracelet doesn't feel substantial enough. Maybe it's just me... I think many people incorrectly label the latest AT as a bulletproof, everyday watch. In hand, it actually feels more like a proper dress watch. A very good one. But I wouldn't be confident to give it wear and tear. See for yourself! Tell me how you found it.
Absolutely agree with Teddy here. Dive watches are the perfect watches to start and to end a watch collection. In between, you will have various watches of various styles. But if you only have one or two, get a diver.
I think it also depends on you personal style. I wear classic menswear each day. The most casual I ever wear is a classic polo shirt with high waisted wide legged chinos combined with a Barracuta G9 jacket. Most of the time I wear suits or sports jackets with odd trousers and always a tie and pocket square. So for me a vintage Omega Seamaster 600 was my first serious watch. It works with everything in my classic wardrobe.
I just bought the Seiko SRPG59 Prospex. I fell in love with how it looked as soon as I saw it and it's my first watch to ever be in my collection! So cool to see this video after the fact. The watch is also a "Save the Ocean" special edition so a percentage of the money that Seiko gets for the watch goes to a group of people who are trying to save the animals that are being cornered and in danger of extinction in Antarctica.
Before watching this video I finally pulled the trigger on my dream watch; the Omega Seamaster 300m. Glad to know I made the right choice as my first luxury time piece
a dive watch can be elegant-toolish-beater at the same time . not sure if any other watch type can do this. you get a Duro and basically you are done. (ok, you change straps depending on the ocassion ..)
My Steinhart Ocean 39 ceramic 3D is my everyday watch plus I actually dive with it. It has an ETA 2824 that is accurate to +\- 2 seconds /day which is incredible for a $500 watch. I also love my Seiko king Samurai white dial (43mm) which I wear in the summer as my beach watch. To round it out I have a vintage Seiko 6309. I love my dive watches. Looking forward to an Omega 300 diver one day. Great videos Teddy. Thank you for interesting and accurate updates! Peace
Not a bad idea, but there are other options. A field watch (or pilot), some of which are very water resistant can also be a great go-to. Right now I am wearing a Nomos Club with the oyster bracelet. Not technically a dive watch, but is rated at 300m and tends to look right with shorts or most suits. Tudor Ranger is another.
The casio duro actually wears like a 40mm on the wrist. 😅 I am a female and own one, I also have a fossil male chrono watch which was handed down to me by my husband and the duro looks smaller and fits better than the fossil men’s chrono, I just have to find a smaller strap for my duro, one that can be adjusted further to fit my wrist better. It has to do with the lug to lug of the casio duro and the fact that it’s actually thinner than most dive watches, the only thing though is the weight of the casio duro because it is quite heavy on the wrist. Not that I am comlaining since I think it is a really solid watch. 😅
I don’t know whether parents are still buying watches for their kids, but when I started school I was given a Lorus Sports divers watch in black and gold (obvs not real gold) - I’ve had a soft spot for divers ever since, especially the Seiko/Grand Seiko variety. My GADA watch is a GS SBGA031 - spring drive, titanium, large size but hugs the wrist well, takes a beating and still looks like new after a few years of daily use.
I’d recommend a field watch, such as a Hamilton Khaki, Tudor BB36/41 or an Omega Aquaterra over a diver - rugged enough to be worn with casual clothes, but also dressy and capable to be worn with a suit and tie.
Great vid! I agree with all of your points. In today's world, the majority of dive watches really can be worn in almost all circumstances short of true dress (tuxedo) situations. Many of them actually do look good, IMHO, with a suit and tie!
I went with the 37mm Rolex Yacht-Master. Tried it and felt it would be a perfect all rounder. Also quite thin at 10.8mm. I wear it everywhere. Very happy with it.
My first Swiss watch is a diver’s watch- Wenger Seaforce. It’s a beautiful blue watch in blue dual with 35mm. And, yes, I use it as an everyday watch as it suits any situation, not only during water activities. I totally agree with you 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
For me it started with: 1. casio chronograph (black strap), 2. dress watch (brown strap), 3. tourbillon (light brown strap), 4. metal band tourbillon 5. metal band dive watch I think those cover most outfits and styles but as we know sometimes always on the lookout for more
I just bought my first watch a month ago which is a Seiko Prospex Alpinist SPB201J1 . I love it and got more interested in watches and already thinking about the next one and that will be a Taghauer, Tudor or Omega max around 3k€ but I think I gonna wait a year maybe... 😀
Is this part of a new series from you Teddy, because I can see a case being made for a series of these, including digital watches, field watches, chronographs, and dress watches. I would say it depends. Dive watches are cool, but plenty of reasons not to start with a dive watch. 1. They are ubiquitous. Not everybody wants to wear the same thing as every guy and his brother are wearing. 2. Unless you are a diver, swimmer, or lifeguard or have some occupation that puts you in the water a lot, you are wearing a watch for a purpose other than what it was built for. 3. Some models don't dress up well, so if you need a watch that you can dress up, there are better options that transition from dressy to casual. 4. If you work in an office or with a keyboard a lot, big dive watches tend to be a bit cumbersome, and on bracelets especially, can get scratched up. And a few more points. If you are looking for something overbuilt, and as a value proposition, digital watches like the G shock walk all over dive watches. And as for value, there are plenty of quartz chronographs that are a better value proposition than, say, just about any dive watch with an automatic movement. If value is your main concern. And as for heritage and history, the same can be said for field watches , pilot watches, chronographs, and even dress watches. In the end, it really comes down to personal preference and style. I can make a better a case for a field watch as the one watch for most over the diver, or indeed, something like a 2 watch collection with an inexpensive digital watch for the weekend warrior, and a nice dress watch or dress chronograph for every day.
My son and I were just talking about this, as his thirteenth birthday is coming up and he would like a “real” watch and decided (already ordered) on the Hamilton khaki field mechanical 38mm black dial bracelet h69439131 will add straps later (lug to lug a bit long for his 6.3 inch wrist but he’s still growing) and it was a resounding no to a dive watch, not liking the style, being to bulky, not versatile enough and no one where’s them, I have one! He’s chosen a nice watch anyhoo and as usual a great video.
My first watch is a grand seiko heritage quartz 44 gs. Not a dive watch but a great everyday watch that will out perform out live anything out there. Prove me wrong.
Hello, Teddy! I actually purchased one from the list you linked after watching this video. Thanks a lot for advisory and explanations, helped me sort out my mind.
My favorite dive watch is by far the Chris Ward C60 Trident. Punches far above its cost and has a beautiful design. Just my two cents - give CW a chance.
I think the unidirectional design of the bezel holds the diver back from being as practical and functional as say, a pilots watch with a bidirectional timing bezel… although now that I just wrote that, I realize how specific that is.
Great video Teddy. A well thought out and presented angle about purchasing your first watch. I, like most of your subscribers, have multiple watches and am building a collection, but divers dominate my collection and definitely get most of my wrist time.
My only "expensive" watch is a Golden Eye Seamaster, I also have a Citizen Promaster, which looks like it, I like that style alot, but my go-to daily diver is an Invicta 22019, (I've seen 300m Invicta tested to 1200m,) it also doesn't have the stupid logo on the case, again, very like the previous two in Style and colour. I think a great option for dress and robust build would be the Citizen (I like Citizen) Radio controlled watches that many have a 200m WR and Sapphire dial window. A nice functional and relatively inexpensive chronograph is my Tissot PRS 516.
Great video, thanks! You made some good points. My favourite watches tend to be divers. I am a diver but never wear my watches in the water (I just don’t want to lose or damage them) and anyway I use a dive computer. I use the bezel several times a day for timing things or as a reminder to do something at a certain time. As a short sighted person I really like the legibility and great lume that most divers offer. Christopher Ward produce some superb dress divers, they are great value for money.
I'm very biased Ted, I love a dive watch for all of these reason and more, however in practically I don't dive or even swim much at all.... my first mechanical watch purchased was a Omega Speedmaster, I wanted to celebrate my 20+ years of service in Tool & die, the relationship to my achievements just made this decision the right choice for me, and what they represent entirely! I do own a few diver professional watches, and they're amazing, but I don't have a real connection or attachment otherwise!
Citizen promaster is my watch ..in work i wear a smartwatch ..it serves me better..but in my life i prefer the citizen eco drive promaster..a beautiful watch without having to adjust time every week ..i used to own two automatic from revue thommen but i think the eco drive is wonderful
I have one too. For the money it's hard to beat. I happened to wear mine to bed last night and could easily see the time at 4 am. This watch has fantastic looks, lume, and is maintenance free for 20 years unless you crack the crystal. If that happens you just by another one lol
As a mechanical engineer and watch enthusiast I continue to be awed by wealth of information and debate over dive watch water resistance. My personal golden rule on the matter was adopted from the blog of a mid-west watch maker who advised that no matter the brand, no matter the claim, never put a watch under water. There are professional dive computers and bottom timers that serious divers rely on for timing dives.
That’s silly. If you’re paying thousands of dollars for a masterfully crafted and engineered time keeping device that was originally intended to be used as a tool, there should be no problem putting it under water, especially if that’s what it was designed for. People are so afraid of exposing their watches to conditions when it’s intent is to go with you through and on the journey of life. Any other perspective is fear based and not really trusting the purchase you made or the craftsmanship of the manufacturer. Might as well just let the watch sit in a drawer if you’re afraid of it experiencing life.
Tissot Seastar with Powermatic 80. It's a classy diver you can also wear to the office, 200 meters, 80 hour power reserve, sapphire crystal, and great lume.. get the silicum version.
I love this man and his channel, I’ve learned a lot about brands with pedigree and history that cost over a fraction of the hyper valued Rolex. You’ve mentioned brands that I can promise you 90% of the world doesn’t even know about since it’s all about Pateks, Milles, Rolexes, Omegas, Hublots, Jacob and Cos etc. Thank famous peoples and influencer messing the values up. Only true watch fanatics will know about those brands which makes it unique
The JLC Polaris is a good go to for an all around watch that can fit every occasion... I just wish it came in a 38mm option... The current offering is too big :(
Best watch style to buy? The style that got you excited about watches in the first place, and the style of watch that excites you today. Different styles can work in different occassions, the only thing that really matters is whether you are excited about it.
Exactly. If you buy a watch based on recommendations, you're usually not doing the right thing
Nice sentiment but ultimately an unhelpful one when suggesting someone's FIRST watch to buy, implying they lack any real watch experience or exposure to different styles to have a style preference
Field watches are what actually got me excited for watches in the first place. I love dive watches too. Now, these are the only two styles I tend to own.
I always see posts or videos about dive watches but I just cannot find any of them beautiful. I like the idea of a dive watch and the technicity of them but I just don't like the looks. I wish I did but I just don't...
However, I adore dress watches with a clean dial. I'd buy dozens of them if I had the money
@@lefevrealban and that's fine. Buy what you like. You might even develop a taste for dive watches as years go by, but if you don't it doesn't matter.
Teddy is one of the most educated and well spoken TH-camrs I've seen. For example on his second point anybody else making a video like this would just say "you can wear it with a suit or with a t shirt it works with everything" but Teddy gives a credible, thought out analysis of his point. I want to have dinner with this man.
Many channels bring a vibe to the table, i like watching the variety, however i respect the knowledge also of Hoodinkee.
That's exactly what he said, just added a bit of filler to impress anyone susceptible to a nice tasty word soup
@@mineblock9024 disagree, he backs up all of his points much better than most people, but I see where you're coming from
@@mineblock9024 I get that a condescending opinion can at times be applied with some merit, but in this instance I disagree. What you see as verbosity, others see as information about their interest delivered by one of the least offensive yet erudite watchtubers out there.
He is an excellent watch salesman 😁😇🤝 haha love ya Teddy..!
After a study I went for Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra. Such a simple and clean design for a perfect everyday watch. The true diver would be too much for me.
me too. I wore a Submariner for 6 years. I came to the conclusion it was too clunky. Now it's Aqua Terra all the way.
@@neoelitist I think that’s my main gripe against this style
@@popecosh307 I would suggest smaller dive watches if you think they're too clunky. The 36mm Aquis and the 38mm certina ds action come to mind
Agreed. As an every day or one watch, something like the AT dresses up better than any true dive watch. Unless you really need a rotating bezel, which hardly anyone does these days.
@@yleexot 38mm black dial with a black leather strap plus I bought a fancy black/green NATO strap.
Dive watch pros - lume, visibility, ruggedness, bezel timing.
Downsides - many are bulky, too many that look alike
Look alike can be a good thing. I cant count how many times ive been asked if im wearing a Rolex Submariner while wearing my Longine Hydroconquest
@@DUKEisALIVE Can be a very bad thing! Living in London you would be muggers bait if they tought you were wearing a sub
That's why I love my GO Sea Q 39.5!
@@CH-yp5by absolute reason not to wear a sub or anything like that! Only my Casio 5610 in the big smoke! LOL!
@@DUKEisALIVE same to me (I have "only" an Orient Kamasu!)
I bought my Casio Duro as my first “dive” watch (the black dial and gold bezel variant) and I absolutely love it!!!!! It really does everything well from the affordability stand point (under $100) since at first I was iffy about the style of it (which I ended up loving), durability (my Duro has survived Vegas pool water, Kayaking/swimming in ocean water, and everyday use out of water), and wearability (you can really dress it down or even up!)! Just from this, it really opened up my eyes to see other dive watches out there! Also thanks to you teddy I would have never known about the Duro so I thank you 🙏🏽
me too! I just got mine today and it feels very nice
I agree. As the watch guy in my circle of friends it's what i always recommend 1st. It has the wrist presence , utility/durability and looks all in one watch. Plus with a variety of case sizes available for most wrists, you should be able to find the right one.
If you’re being honest about this 99.9% of people wearing dive watches don’t even go into the water let alone serious diving
True, i actually am a diver, i never intend to dive with the watch though. For me it’s important that the watch lasts generations, i want my grandchildren to inherit it, i want it to survive adventures, kayaking, forgetting to take it of on the occasional shower. That’s a dive watch.
@@XiaoPangZi you want it to survive all kinds of adventures, except diving?
I have a few 300m dive watches and they look on from the kitchen counter as I was the dishes they’re scared of water and don’t ever wear them when it’s raining 😅😂
After watching many videos from you, i bought a quarz watch from seiko, steel bracelet (Seiko SUR311P1) and i am very happy with it.
10bar, Saphire Crystal, very versatile, incredibly accurate (+-0sec in 2 months)
A Perfect daily driver for me.
Also bought the SUR309P1 and it is the most versatile watch on my collection. The white or black dial would have suited better for my needs but I was on the blue dial wagon. I love it anyway!
The initial appeal of dive watches to me brought me to get into scuba diving! Happy to have found a newfound love of the sport thru my love of dive watches
Got a Casio Duro last week due to Teddy's recommendation. Then last night discovered his Dad's channel. Two of my favorites...watches and guitars.
I’ve always like dive watches. The watch that caught my eye when I was 14 was a Omega Sea Master. I finally bought it back in 1992, a Quartz Sea Master. A lot of m people thought at the time it was because Pierce Brosnan wore it in Golden Eye, but no. I saw it at a catalog, and also my first in person encounter was a friend’s dad who was a Marines Fighter Pilot wore it. I can’t even swim well, but I have a fascination with dive watch. I now also have Planet Ocean and a Submariner. I’ve also have a Casio Dive and a couple Glycine Airman in my collection. I think the Luminox and Orient dive watches are on ky wish list. I think many low cost watches are just as good.
The BB58 has the most wrist time in my entire collection. Such an elegant and yet practical watch that u can use in just about any occasion.
That's what I was thinking...Pepsi BB58 or a Pelagos or Prince Oyster
I'm impressed by the variety of topics Teddy finds to talk about regarding divers' watches; it's enjoyable to watch. I just need something that keeps showing me all these pieces while I think about which one to get...
You’re killing it with all of these great consistent videos Teddy.
Thank you for addressing the general trend of dressing more casual. I think that is key to the argument that I nice dive watch can literally be worn with anything. Heck, just wearing a “real watch” (i.e. not a smartwatch) will get you by with probably anything you will wear that’s not a tuxedo.
Starting to see more smartwatches with suits too. I currently wear my Garmin Fenix nearly everywhere because I like the functionality. It's just too big to wear with a suit, though.
I dress very casual and I like to travel, for this there’s no better watches than the divers! Very nice video and keep the good work my friend!
My friend was looking for a first watch but also most probably an Only Watch as well. I suggested for him to get a seiko 5 field with the bracelet. That thing has everything! Legible easy to read dial, day and date function, surprisingly good luma, reliable movement, hacking and hand winding, decent bracelet, all of that for 270 euros including tax. He is so happy with it and I'm so glad he listened to my advice to get the right watch and not rush things.
Just got into the watch world, when my late father left me he’s omega seamaster deville from 64, way to small at 33mm, but my interest was lit, and seeing the beautiful seamaster 300 heritage model, but not really Abel to justifie the cost, as a first trail watch, I went for the Baltic aquascaphe blue dial, similar looks and I’m sold. Now that I started looking, at especially Teddy’s channel, I found a world filled with amazing pieces, and I think the journey just began.
Thanks for the insightful and knowledgeable advice, that you bring, to watch noobs like me.
Ps:still an Omega guy by heart….
I like those small Omega watches & I have a 7 3/4 wrist
I too inherited an omega from my father, when he died last year, he left me his omega seamaster professional 300 it’s the newer model with the 8800 movement 👍🏽 I’m an omega guy too, also a Hamilton guy as well, I love my Hamilton’s as well :)
I’ve been wearing my great grandfathers watch for awhile now, same exact watch Omega sea master De ville from 64!
I am currently going back and forth on what my first and possibly only mechanical watch should be. A field watch fits my current style better, but as something that will last me the rest of my life and probably be handed down to my son, I think a dive watch would be more timeless and versatile.
I honestly love omega they are just great for every day use. They got heritage and they got style.
Good video, as always. Dive watch is a solid choice due to its durability and wide range of choices. Another excellent choice would be a field watch. Not as bulky as a diver, which is a plus for many people. I have found that most field watches are more comfortable to wear all day than most divers.
Great video. I went the other way. I got a dress watch first, as I like them more. Finally got a dive watch this week. Never really liked their look until recently. Went with a Citizen Promaster Diver.
Teddy,
Great video and great recommendation!
As a geezer who remembers both Lloyd Bridges and Jacques Cousteau on TV, I will admit a diver was the first watch I coveted and the real first watch I owned - the Bulova Devil Diver.
Today my collection includes other watches and other styles, but divers and field watches remain my “go to” watches.
Teddy you have done many informative and enlightening videos about watches. But none top this one about the strength, endurance, and beauty of dive watches. Bravo!👏🏽 .
Thank you Teddy for that deep dive (pun intended) into what distinguishes a dive watch from other types of watches, and how these distinctive features give it the most versatility, justifying why a dive watch should be part of every watch enthusiast's collection. The production value you put in your instructional videos is by far some of the best among TH-cam channels that specialize in horology. Kudos to you and your filming and editing team.
I agree with the dive watch being the perfect starting point.
I think field, or pilot's watches are better for most people, but I get that dive watches are more popular.
Showing off that Oris Upcycle a lot lately. And it grows on me every time I see it in a video.
I prefer to suggest an everyday watch, one that fits with every outfit and occasion.
pretty much this.
Absolutely
GADA
go anywhere do anything
Seamaster Aqua Tera, it’s a do everything watch.
Agreed. I find that divers stick out like a sore thumb with a blazer/sport coat/suit. Not a tasteful look.
Having watched and subscribed to you for years, its amazing to see the growth you have had and the brith of your retail site! Congratulations and well deserved. Small ask, can you do a 'wrist watch check' before you do your videos? Its fun to see what you are wearing and I spend most of the video trying to make it out anyway... :)
I am a die hard fan o dive watches. But in my opinion best style for the first watch is the one we like to most + the one that will go the best with our day to day outfits.
I’ve been watching your videos. Very informative. I find it curious that you’re probably the only TH-camr that avoids speaking about Invicta. You do mention it’s competitors, but ignore invicta 😊
My first watch will be the Tissot PRX 35mm when it comes out in a couple months.
Great video! Totally agree for a first choice of mechanical watch. Dress ‘em up, dress ‘em down, wear ‘em everywhere across town.
My first automatic dive watch was a Squale 1521 blue ocean and is still the best case design i have ever come across. Even when i just owned quartz they were dive watches and Citizen and Accurist. Though i think my first ever watch was a casio F91W. I would argue a Casio square is almost perfect in many ways....
I've got a soft spot for the Casio F-108 and Casio as a whole ! I regret throwing out my original 108 after the strap broke . I look at well worn watches becoming Talismans . Still have my basic training watch (Timex) and Army graduation watch (Elgin titanium m/d/h) which I still adore 🥰
Squale does make amazing watches- wish they were as well-known as other brands.
I think the everyday style, simple 3 hand, brushed or polished bezel is the best personally
I purchased a bronze Zelos Mako a couple years ago as my first watch. I wear it every single day (on a NATO strap) and it's a perfect tool/everyday watch. When I need to dress up a bit, I can polish it to a shine and put it on a classy black leather strap. I don't know if I'll ever need another watch.
How is it doing now ?
Any cons you found ?
Still ticking away! My only complaint is that the bezel has loosened up quite a bit.
I'm a big fan of industrial design. The versatility of daily or dress-up is just the cherry on top for me!
I've worn a Timex Ironman about 99% of the time for over 25+ years. (An Accutron Quartz dive-type watch for dress up with suits purpose under 1% of the time). Was already thinking about buying a Seiko solar dive watch. This video probably helped me make up my mind. Appreciate the video. And btw, I saw the videos with Kevin O'Leary. Red band kinda guy 😊. "You gotta have a style" ...Maybe I'll pick yellow...let's have a "bright + sun shiny day".
I agree with all these points. I couldn’t quite explain why I’m drawn to dive watches, and you’ve just articulate it really clearly. Off to pick up my Black Bay 58 tomorrow ☺️
The first thing that made me love watches was a chronograph, but then as I tried to look at more watches, divers really make me love watches.more.
I agree. I think in modern times I’d prefer a diver to an “everyday” style watch with no bezel. For my lifestyle a nice diver works in any occasion.
I've oddly been using the bezel to time things more and more lately. So it does have "some" extra functionality.
I agree. The timing bezel looks great, is fun to play with, and is absolutely useful in daily life.
@@soulsphere1749 People forget, if they think it's obtrusive there are other styles. I have a supercompressor and the bezel is under the crystal. It's as smooth as any sports watch.
Omega Seamaster Aqua Tera is the perfect jumping off point, it’s the ultimate everyday watch, it fits with a suit, it’s 150m water resistant, can’t be easily beaten.
The AT looks good on photos but a bit disappointing in person. Particularly that bracelet.
@@istvantoth7431 Really? I've heard that they look better in person. Been meaning to check it out myself.
@@Czeron01 the latest iteration of the AT bracelet doesn't feel substantial enough. Maybe it's just me...
I think many people incorrectly label the latest AT as a bulletproof, everyday watch. In hand, it actually feels more like a proper dress watch. A very good one. But I wouldn't be confident to give it wear and tear.
See for yourself! Tell me how you found it.
Absolutely agree with Teddy here. Dive watches are the perfect watches to start and to end a watch collection. In between, you will have various watches of various styles. But if you only have one or two, get a diver.
I think it also depends on you personal style. I wear classic menswear each day. The most casual I ever wear is a classic polo shirt with high waisted wide legged chinos combined with a Barracuta G9 jacket. Most of the time I wear suits or sports jackets with odd trousers and always a tie and pocket square.
So for me a vintage Omega Seamaster 600 was my first serious watch. It works with everything in my classic wardrobe.
I just bought the Seiko SRPG59 Prospex. I fell in love with how it looked as soon as I saw it and it's my first watch to ever be in my collection! So cool to see this video after the fact. The watch is also a "Save the Ocean" special edition so a percentage of the money that Seiko gets for the watch goes to a group of people who are trying to save the animals that are being cornered and in danger of extinction in Antarctica.
Before watching this video I finally pulled the trigger on my dream watch; the Omega Seamaster 300m. Glad to know I made the right choice as my first luxury time piece
same here, seamaster 300m diver is currently in delivery. will also be my first luxury watch and i can‘t wait to wear it on my wrist
a dive watch can be elegant-toolish-beater at the same time .
not sure if any other watch type can do this.
you get a Duro and basically you are done.
(ok, you change straps depending on the ocassion ..)
My Steinhart Ocean 39 ceramic 3D is my everyday watch plus I actually dive with it. It has an ETA 2824 that is accurate to +\- 2 seconds /day which is incredible for a $500 watch. I also love my Seiko king Samurai white dial (43mm) which I wear in the summer as my beach watch. To round it out I have a vintage Seiko 6309. I love my dive watches. Looking forward to an Omega 300 diver one day. Great videos Teddy. Thank you for interesting and accurate updates! Peace
I have a Steinhart OVM1 39mm, yeah these are amazing watches and a great value.
Not a bad idea, but there are other options. A field watch (or pilot), some of which are very water resistant can also be a great go-to. Right now I am wearing a Nomos Club with the oyster bracelet. Not technically a dive watch, but is rated at 300m and tends to look right with shorts or most suits. Tudor Ranger is another.
not true - Nomos Club has only 100m WR.
The $50 Casio Duro, if your wrist can handle its size, is a gateway drug into dive watches.
The casio duro actually wears like a 40mm on the wrist. 😅 I am a female and own one, I also have a fossil male chrono watch which was handed down to me by my husband and the duro looks smaller and fits better than the fossil men’s chrono, I just have to find a smaller strap for my duro, one that can be adjusted further to fit my wrist better. It has to do with the lug to lug of the casio duro and the fact that it’s actually thinner than most dive watches, the only thing though is the weight of the casio duro because it is quite heavy on the wrist. Not that I am comlaining since I think it is a really solid watch. 😅
I don’t know whether parents are still buying watches for their kids, but when I started school I was given a Lorus Sports divers watch in black and gold (obvs not real gold) - I’ve had a soft spot for divers ever since, especially the Seiko/Grand Seiko variety. My GADA watch is a GS SBGA031 - spring drive, titanium, large size but hugs the wrist well, takes a beating and still looks like new after a few years of daily use.
Sea Hunt is such a classic show. Good to see Lloyds watches getting observed.
I’d recommend a field watch, such as a Hamilton Khaki, Tudor BB36/41 or an Omega Aquaterra over a diver - rugged enough to be worn with casual clothes, but also dressy and capable to be worn with a suit and tie.
Great vid! I agree with all of your points. In today's world, the majority of dive watches really can be worn in almost all circumstances short of true dress (tuxedo) situations. Many of them actually do look good, IMHO, with a suit and tie!
I went with the 37mm Rolex Yacht-Master. Tried it and felt it would be a perfect all rounder. Also quite thin at 10.8mm.
I wear it everywhere. Very happy with it.
dont rip that rolex apart man i treated my first watch like shit before
My first Swiss watch is a diver’s watch- Wenger Seaforce. It’s a beautiful blue watch in blue dual with 35mm. And, yes, I use it as an everyday watch as it suits any situation, not only during water activities. I totally agree with you 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Totally agree. Dive watch of course!
Thank you for launching this video with the Oris Aquis. I am on a two year plan to get this to celebrate my next achievement.
Hey Ted, I know your content is all about watches, but could you do a vid on your clothing? Brands, styles, must haves, etc..?
God I love the omega seamaster 300m, the one from James bond, I love that design
I would love to see -
1. A video on square/rectangle dial watches
2. Something on high horology pieces, like A Lange & Sohne, F.P.Journe, etc.
For me it started with:
1. casio chronograph (black strap),
2. dress watch (brown strap),
3. tourbillon (light brown strap),
4. metal band tourbillon
5. metal band dive watch
I think those cover most outfits and styles but as we know sometimes always on the lookout for more
sometimes always?
tourbillon was in your starter kit???
well that escalated quickly
@@djdelarosa25 hahah yea, now I just wear my casio a168 vaporwave everyday. Not interested in watches anymore
I just bought my first watch a month ago which is a Seiko Prospex Alpinist SPB201J1 . I love it and got more interested in watches and already thinking about the next one and that will be a Taghauer, Tudor or Omega max around 3k€ but I think I gonna wait a year maybe... 😀
Is this part of a new series from you Teddy, because I can see a case being made for a series of these, including digital watches, field watches, chronographs, and dress watches.
I would say it depends. Dive watches are cool, but plenty of reasons not to start with a dive watch.
1. They are ubiquitous. Not everybody wants to wear the same thing as every guy and his brother are wearing.
2. Unless you are a diver, swimmer, or lifeguard or have some occupation that puts you in the water a lot, you are wearing a watch for a purpose other than what it was built for.
3. Some models don't dress up well, so if you need a watch that you can dress up, there are better options that transition from dressy to casual.
4. If you work in an office or with a keyboard a lot, big dive watches tend to be a bit cumbersome, and on bracelets especially, can get scratched up.
And a few more points.
If you are looking for something overbuilt, and as a value proposition, digital watches like the G shock walk all over dive watches. And as for value, there are plenty of quartz chronographs that are a better value proposition than, say, just about any dive watch with an automatic movement. If value is your main concern.
And as for heritage and history, the same can be said for field watches , pilot watches, chronographs, and even dress watches.
In the end, it really comes down to personal preference and style. I can make a better a case for a field watch as the one watch for most over the diver, or indeed, something like a 2 watch collection with an inexpensive digital watch for the weekend warrior, and a nice dress watch or dress chronograph for every day.
I got a JLC Polaris as an only watch together with 3 straps (leather, steel and rubber) that i can switch.
Im ready for anything.
My son and I were just talking about this, as his thirteenth birthday is coming up and he would like a “real” watch and decided (already ordered) on the Hamilton khaki field mechanical 38mm black dial bracelet h69439131 will add straps later (lug to lug a bit long for his 6.3 inch wrist but he’s still growing) and it was a resounding no to a dive watch, not liking the style, being to bulky, not versatile enough and no one where’s them, I have one! He’s chosen a nice watch anyhoo and as usual a great video.
My first watch is a grand seiko heritage quartz 44 gs. Not a dive watch but a great everyday watch that will out perform out live anything out there. Prove me wrong.
wouldn't the burden of proof be on you?
@@mbrum3230 I can share the specs with you if that’s what you want but it’s easy to do a search
Very true, a dive watch is the most versatile piece. Can be a one watch collection easily.
Hello, Teddy! I actually purchased one from the list you linked after watching this video. Thanks a lot for advisory and explanations, helped me sort out my mind.
Agree!! When checking new watch releases or just watch brands I’v never before, I always check their divers.
I started with a Casio digital watch
My favorite dive watch is by far the Chris Ward C60 Trident. Punches far above its cost and has a beautiful design. Just my two cents - give CW a chance.
I bought my first watch a couple of weeks ago. I got the Seiko Presage Ginza 140th Anniversary and I absolutely love it!
I think the unidirectional design of the bezel holds the diver back from being as practical and functional as say, a pilots watch with a bidirectional timing bezel… although now that I just wrote that, I realize how specific that is.
It won’t be my entry, or only, watch, but I’ve yet to add a dive watch to my collection so, as ever, this was a great video.
Great video Teddy. A well thought out and presented angle about purchasing your first watch. I, like most of your subscribers, have multiple watches and am building a collection, but divers dominate my collection and definitely get most of my wrist time.
Field watch is my perfect one watch
I have a Baltic and a Vostok. Dive watches are really fun to wear and operate
I agree 100%. I got married in Jamaica. I wore my Submariner on a ship wreck dive that day...and under the sleeve of my tux that night. 👍
Started with a blue and gold invicta..
Now i’m onto a Tissot PRX. Slowly building a collection.
I got my first watch this Christmas. Casio A168, really cool!
The omega speed master is the watch that got me into watches,Rolex submariner too
Best 2 watches for newbs: cheap divers with seiko movement and Seiko 5 dress watches under 100 usd
My only "expensive" watch is a Golden Eye Seamaster, I also have a Citizen Promaster, which looks like it, I like that style alot, but my go-to daily diver is an Invicta 22019, (I've seen 300m Invicta tested to 1200m,) it also doesn't have the stupid logo on the case, again, very like the previous two in Style and colour.
I think a great option for dress and robust build would be the Citizen (I like Citizen) Radio controlled watches that many have a 200m WR and Sapphire dial window.
A nice functional and relatively inexpensive chronograph is my Tissot PRS 516.
Steinhart Ocean One 42mm, best dive watch ever.
Great video, thanks!
You made some good points. My favourite watches tend to be divers. I am a diver but never wear my watches in the water (I just don’t want to lose or damage them) and anyway I use a dive computer.
I use the bezel several times a day for timing things or as a reminder to do something at a certain time. As a short sighted person I really like the legibility and great lume that most divers offer. Christopher Ward produce some superb dress divers, they are great value for money.
I'm very biased Ted, I love a dive watch for all of these reason and more, however in practically I don't dive or even swim much at all.... my first mechanical watch purchased was a Omega Speedmaster, I wanted to celebrate my 20+ years of service in Tool & die, the relationship to my achievements just made this decision the right choice for me, and what they represent entirely! I do own a few diver professional watches, and they're amazing, but I don't have a real connection or attachment otherwise!
Citizen promaster is my watch ..in work i wear a smartwatch ..it serves me better..but in my life i prefer the citizen eco drive promaster..a beautiful watch without having to adjust time every week ..i used to own two automatic from revue thommen but i think the eco drive is wonderful
I have one too. For the money it's hard to beat. I happened to wear mine to bed last night and could easily see the time at 4 am. This watch has fantastic looks, lume, and is maintenance free for 20 years unless you crack the crystal. If that happens you just by another one lol
Impecable taste sir!.... nice to see more than one or two of mine in your showcase!... Inc one or two of my 'desires'😃
My Seiko SKX 007 is the one I wear the most for sure, it just fits in every occasion
i love field watch..wear it everyday, every where..simply love it
As a mechanical engineer and watch enthusiast I continue to be awed by wealth of information and debate over dive watch
water resistance. My personal golden rule on the matter was adopted from the blog of a mid-west watch maker who advised that no matter the brand, no matter the claim, never put a watch under water. There are professional dive computers and bottom timers that serious divers rely on for timing dives.
That’s silly. If you’re paying thousands of dollars for a masterfully crafted and engineered time keeping device that was originally intended to be used as a tool, there should be no problem putting it under water, especially if that’s what it was designed for. People are so afraid of exposing their watches to conditions when it’s intent is to go with you through and on the journey of life. Any other perspective is fear based and not really trusting the purchase you made or the craftsmanship of the manufacturer. Might as well just let the watch sit in a drawer if you’re afraid of it experiencing life.
@@bodhimeditation108 well said
So why are dive watches called as such? Is it a mere commercial ploy?
Tissot Seastar with Powermatic 80. It's a classy diver you can also wear to the office, 200 meters, 80 hour power reserve, sapphire crystal, and great lume.. get the silicum version.
I love this man and his channel, I’ve learned a lot about brands with pedigree and history that cost over a fraction of the hyper valued Rolex.
You’ve mentioned brands that I can promise you 90% of the world doesn’t even know about since it’s all about Pateks, Milles, Rolexes, Omegas, Hublots, Jacob and Cos etc.
Thank famous peoples and influencer messing the values up.
Only true watch fanatics will know about those brands which makes it unique
The JLC Polaris is a good go to for an all around watch that can fit every occasion... I just wish it came in a 38mm option... The current offering is too big :(
I love the look and utility of chronographs. Add the technology of radio controlled like citizen and your golden
I completely agree, in my watch collection I have 19 Divers and in the next few days I will receive the number 20
Please send your collection to Archie for a paid review
As someone who actually dives, I wear my Citizens Eco dive watch all the time. I love it for diving too.
i just bought a seiko 5 srpd51k1 last 2weeks i really love it good looking any time
I wasn't a fan a dive watches until I brought one for a trip to Hawaii, since then they've been my daily wear at home and for casual dress.