Aren't they part of Seiko? I think Seiko is positioning themselves into three tiers. Old Seiko price range = Orient. Seiko now at mid-tier $250-$2,000 and Grand Seiko above that. Makes it tough for new collectors trying to pick up old Seiko classics in a reasonable price range - which is why the homages and micro-brands are selling so well.
The whole Orient / Seiko thing can get confusing. Seiko-Epson owns Orient, and is technically a completely independent and separate company from Seiko Holdings (Seiko Watches). Yet a lot of the major Shareholders are the same for each company. Seiko-Epson also makes movements for Seiko watches, and co-own a few companies that make parts for Seiko. In fact I think I read somewhere that Seiko-Epson actually created the Spring Drive, but they never use it themselves.
I think buying some of the NOS entry level Seiko refs is fun to do right now. The prices are up a little higher than the past, but when they’re gone, they’re gone. Fun to hold on to a bit of history in pristine condition. I bought an SNK805 for that reason. I wanted a piece of what so many had “grown up” with.
Best video you have done, among many good ones. Will be the starter video for friends asking about watches. And yes. I have kept my red Kamasu after getting a white dial Seamaster. And I have bought that Citizen for a senior citizen who can not keep his watches wound and his time set. It’s perfect.
Funny you started with my favorite Watch the Red Kamasu. Love that watch. Because I was a submarine sailor in the 80's I had to get a Submarine Commander's Vostok and a Chinese Seagull 1963. The Irony was too much to resist. And Yes, the G-shock is my goto Saturday watch after initially wearing my Seiko 5 to say it's Seiko Saturday - which makes everyone in the family roll their eyes.
I think as a first watch a Cadisen c-1032 is a good choice ... decent specs and automatic with a nice clean look (office dress everyday) and reliable movement. Other than that one suggestion great list.
@@RelativeTime Yeah , I haven't tried to buy from Helm , but i see many many post's of upset people not getting one ..... I think they only made 150 of the last batch , so demand heavily outweighs supply ....... All great pick's for a great 1st auto - Orient Mako 2 started it all for me :) so can't go wrong with that stunning red dial Kamasu
Casio is my first love and always will be, Orient has grown a lot in me during the last years, I mean c'mon, the quality you get for the price you pay is almost unmatched. Citizen and Seiko are still a must as well as, at least, the Vostok Komandirskie and the Amphibia. Can't go wrong with any of them really.
Wish this list had been around when I started. First watch was an SNK and then jumped immediately to a Hamilton, and I never wear the SNK anymore. Oh well. I think I'll use that one as a gift to bring someone new into the hobby.
Very impressive selection. Best part as stated in the video: Even you step up in the future they have a reason to stay in your collection. This is really a good rule!
You covered all the bases with your choices. I’m not big on chronographs except the Seagull 1963 that can be had for $150ish although the prices have been creeping up. That was sound advice for anyone starting a collection.
Thanks. Got an interesting chronograph from merkur to review. Has a Seagull mechanical movement, just like the panda one I reviewed. Yet also has a moonphase.
Still loving my Omega Speedmaster three dial with date my wife bought me at the turn of the millennium in 1999 - wear it everyday day and it’s still worth more than she paid for it.
The kamasus' red dial is bedazzling..not as accurate as a seiko and the rotor movement is highly noticeable,but one can get used to it.its a great choice along w the the seiko option "silver shadow"..i just adore that black bay 36 style dress/sport combo
After thinking about getting into watches for 2 years, this video sent me over the edge. I bought 5 today - the Seiko 5 & Orient Kamasu included. I guess this was a pretty good video!
@@RelativeTime Due to black Friday deals, I picked up the grey Seiko SRPE61, the Kamasu in red, a Hamilton Khaki in black, a Ray Raven II, and a Mako II in blue....all for for $1000. My wardrobe now has the basics covered. Again, your video made me do it...nice content.
Islander Watch co., is coming out with a Quartz model after the first of the year. It's going to be tough to hold out that long, but that going to be my next watch. I'm neck deep in auto's, I'm starting to re-discover my love of a Quartz.
Shane, I’m a huge fan of your videos and this is one of my favorite ones. I think all the watches you picked are spot on and I consider myself a somewhat experience collector, but now you gave me a few more watches to go back and consider. Keep producing the wonderful content and you’re doing a great job!
Just picked up the Citizen AT0200 for under a hundred about a week ago! Wearing it now. Good tastes think alike, ha! Great little field watch and like you mentioned the adding stopwatch and high contract numerals were a seller for me.
Excellent list. The Kamasu looks fantastic and it's one I think I'm going to take a look at. Agree with what you say about the Vostoks. They're a like them or don't type of watch.I own four and still find myself on Meranom thinking one more isn't going to break the bank.
Lately I'm eyeballing a black dial, coke bezel Citizen Promaster Automatic 42mm, less than 300 dollars, and truly a beauty! BTW, great list, the red Orient Kamasu is my favorite!
Great suggestions. Got a Vostok amphibia and the rotor fell off after three months, Vostok Europe GMT which gains 5 minutes every week, Seiko “55 fathoms” mod which looses 3 minutes per week. Recently my wife got me a gorgeous Bulova Accutron Swiss chronograph. By far the most accurate watch I’ve ever owned. In two months it’s still spot on with the radio controlled alarm clock. Second most accurate watch I own is a 1914 South Bend Pocket watch. Wind it daily and gains only one minute every three weeks. Back then it took a year to build a watch and another six months to adjust it. Thank you for your great reviews!
Awesome video! I've only been into watches for about 2 years now. My first "big" purchase in watches was my Orient Ray II black dial... it is still one of the most worn watches even among some way more expensive Seikos I have. It's within a 4 second /day accuracy. Rugged, fits in almost ANY setting, easy-to-read lume at any time of the night/morning.. good aftermarket support. I don't mind the bracelet that they come on either... and if that is such an issue, really decent bracelets from Strapcode for these. I think Orient is probably the #1 best watchmaker when it comes to incredible quality for the money. I also think Citizen is incredible value, especially the Eco-Drives... really an awesome pick-up-and-go watch, and I find Citizen have maybe superior bracelets/straps than Seiko/Orient at the same price. Man, these watches are awesome because the low cost makes these "guilt-free" purchases that I'm NOT afraid to wear everyday... compared to some Limited/Special Edition Seikos I have. Suggestion: One of my favorite low-cost automatics is the Citizen NJ0100 series. Aviator-inspired SIMPLE dial. 100m eq. water resistant, winding, easy-to-read, good case size even for smaller wrists, quality finishing on case and good leather strap. It's a sub-200$ watch that feels like it should cost way more.
I really enjoyed this list, well done and I agree with your suggestions, I just bought a G Shock 5610 for the exact reasons you mentioned. Also because I wanted a NASA flight certified time piece. =)
I was waiting for the Vostok Amphibia, it was my 2nd watch but the one that really got me into horology and it was mostly because of the series of videos you did with them. I still wear it even though its a black dial diver, well it's my only black dial diver. Great video this was a good idea.
I have both the burgundy Kamasu and a G-Shock DW5600 and they can definetly keep up with the more expensive watches. Love both of them for being so different, especially at such a low price point. Much love from Germany and stay healthy!
These are all good choices. A major watch to recommend would be the Citizen Promaster Eco Drive Driver, the BN0150-28e is the black version. Under $200, ISO rated 200m, and solar. It probably is the most affordable ISO diver. I would also recommend the Islander watches from Long Island Watch. While they do do out of stock and are basically copies of Seiko divers, you are getting a lot for the price. Marc basically made the SKX everyone wanted, plus various versions the the 38mm version. Marc is based in the US so you wont have the issue with international shipping. I have 3 Islanders and I am very impressed by them.
Funny you should mention the Citizen Promaster. Working on a review of the blue version right now. Hopefully done before the end of the week. Sometimes they go on sale, and I got mine around $120. Which is a crazy good price for an ISO rated diver.
Good list. For next time I'd suggest: * Seiko Flightmaster - Slide rule bezel. Chrono. Alarm/second time zone. 200m water resist. Very few like it. Seems readily obtainable on Amazon. * Orient Bambino - Great everyday dress / office piece. Lots of variety. I have model FAC00009N0 and it still gets wrist time even though I've added more to my collection. * Timex Marlin Automatic - Especially if one is a Peanuts fan. I've put a Snoopy Marlin on my Xmas wish list.
Great idea on the Flightmaster. I was thinking about a Citizen Nighthawk too. Although when I checked Amazon the nighthawk's price has jumped in the last few months. So I thought I would wait and see if it comes back down.
I have owned the Citizen that you featured for about 15 years. Its a bit banged up, but still keeps great time. The best value for money watch that I own.
I would love to see you review a Seiko SARB. The SARB035 is my favorite watch in my small collection. I received it as a gift from my family just before they were discontinued. Admittedly I haven’t experienced a vast array of watches so I don’t have a lot to compare it to. I would be happy to lend mine into the channel in a month or two from now if you’re interested.
Here's how I know that DressKX is a good idea. I still want one and I have 3 dozen watches including 2 black bays (although not without the bezel). The Citizen chrono is a great one. Always good to have a quartz, always good to have a field watch, always good to have a solar, always good to have a chrono.
It is. Didn't even think about it, and I've been meaning to check out a Defender 2 for a while. Although I was also trying to hold a few things back for a followup, like a Bambino.
Great list, with a lot of consideration put into it. To me the blue ring square is a killer, and so is the Amphibia (the different scuba dudes are often sold out on Meranom, though - I’m on a waiting list there for a specific model currently). Personally, I’m not a fan of day-dates, but the Kamasu still looks great 👍🏻
My first toe in the water watch was the British armed forces G10,totally refurbished by Eddie Platts at Timefactors.It dated back to 1982 and was issued to the Royal Navy stores.I would still encourage anyone to try one as they are still available through different outlets.It's a very simple design and very legible,early ones like mine have a battery hatch in the back.Later ones don't.I bought it because they are field tested for a long time before the Ministry of Defence will approve them....................................
Find myself often wearing a vostok 030789 with ceramic insert, a vostok Neptune gmt in a 650 case and a seagull ocean star more than my expensive pieces.
Shane, very informative and great selection of watches. I would drop the Vostok maybe culty, but way to many reliability issues. I would put in a Timex Marlin or a Sea-Gull 1963 (both culty and more reliable) in its place. Another watch I might consider for less than 300.00 is a Phoibos. Incredible value for an automatic 300 meter dive watch.You surprised me with the G-Shock selection. I have a DW5600c that I purchased in 1987. I needed a very accurate, tough watch that could handle a variety of extreme weather conditions. I stuck it in a draw in the early 90s and forgot about it. Recently rediscovered it, popped in a new battery and the thing works like the day I bought it.
Very cool. Those G-shocks can really take a licking. Which Phoibos were you thinking about? I was trying to avoid microbrands in this one, but I might do a follow-up that includes them.
@@RelativeTime The G-Shock certainly did take a beating. As for Phoibos, I kind of like the PY010E Wave Master, the abalone dial really pops, but it's out of stock. I also like the Proteus PY028B. They make some good looking watches with their own charm not just homages.
Kamasu = the new skx... It's the watch every collector should own regardless of your budget. It's just amazing for price to value ratio, and they are stunning
Brother, you teased me! The SECOND the picture of that Vostok appeared in the video, my jaw dropped. I immediately paused it, before even listening to what you were going to say about it, and made a quick trip around the internet searching for it. But I can NOT find one with that rust colored bezel. That is absolutely beautiful! Hang onto that watch, as I just learned that it is not easy to find!
FOUND IT! It was buried deep in the Vostok section on ebay, and I have to wait for it to ship from England...but I got it! Excellent addition to my collection! Thanks brother!
@@kennedymcgovern5413 The Orange Scuba Dude with the Orange Planet Oceany like bezel? That's just a regular scuba dude with an aftermarket bezel. I made a video about it a while ago: th-cam.com/video/A4PK-TKSZr4/w-d-xo.html I think the bezel comes from a company called am-diver.com/
Even though I already have an Orient Ray II and an Orient Triton/Neptune (both blue), I just bought an Orient Kamasu with the green(teal) dial. If I did not already have several Citizen Chandler chronographs, I would be tempted to get the one in this video. I have five G-SHOCK squares (and a bunch of other Casios). On my GLS-5600CL-1, I had to change the lug adapters to get a proper fit on my wrist. My other squares are fine.
Bulova Precisionist. Lots to choose from and really accurate. I love mine. Curved sapphire crystal. Smooth second hand. Great watch. Looks good in jeans or with a suit and tie. No Chronograph. They've really come down in price since I bought mine. Easy to find under $300.
The precisionists are great, I just wish they weren't as big. For a while Bulova had the Accutron II line, which had the same smooth sweep, but not the same accuracy. Although it's disappeared off their website.
I absolutely agree about the DressKX. At first I was skeptical about the new Seiko 5 lineup, but the DressKX has changed my mind, at least to the 40 mm models. Still a little pricey, but I think the prices are slowly coming down. I might get one relatively soon.
Excellent list for new watch enthusiasts, really appreciate this advice. I came quite close to following this plan but my watches were slightly different. I did go with an Orient diver but it was the orange bezel Mako XL, as it's size suited me, and despite the older movement, I love it. I considered the Seiko Dress KX, but wanted a more sporty smaller watch than the Mako and got a Seiko SRPD51K2 , love it too, for a dress type I got an Orient Tristar blue dial that I love. I do plan on getting myself a Vostok soon, that Citizen is tempting also, or possibly a Seiko field watch instead. But the G-Shock, despite it's iconic status doesn't appeal to me personally. I would also get a Kamasu and keep my Mako! Such a beautiful red dial.
Such good advice, Shane! After a long absence from watches, I avoided the mistake of the all-too-common blue diver, picking up a yellow Scurfa that still holds its own among my other divers (yes, I broke your micro brand rule, but alas).
That red burgundy Orient Is about as rare as hens teeth I love the color I’ve been wanting one but they never seem to be available. One watch that’s lacking from the list is the Casio Duro
I upgraded my bracelet on the Kamasu, and feels far more premium. Mine is also red, what a great watch. The Glycine Combat Sub is only a little over budget, so an option also.
Same here....I have two Kamasu’s, a red and a green. I got a Strapcode/Miltat Jubilee strap that smartens them up no end, rather than the ‘meh’ original steel strap. When they are not on the jubilee strap I have them on all sorts of NATO’s and leather straps. The Kamasu is such a strap monster, I just love it!
Same here. I have the Red Kamasu which I paired with a Strapcode Super J bracelet. I also have a Blue Kamasu which I have on a rubber strap. Both watches are fantastic.
My Citizen AT-O2OO hasn’t let me down yet. It’s been a few years and keeps good time. My only gripe was finding the right replacement band. I wear it with a 20mm NATO and keep it moving. Good list.
How about a list just on micro brands with great specs, maybe between $100 - $300 ? I am still waiting for my Kamasu red dial to come down in price. Already watch this video a few times and as always I open my Amazon, eBay, Maranom etc tabs ready to hunt. Thanks Shane.
Great list. Funny thing: although I have improved after many years my collection to mid and high end Swiss brands I have the Dress KX, the green Kamasu and looking for my order on a 24h dial Vostok while searching for a good Ecodrive with a good size on case (39mm). So all in all you don’t have to be a newbie to get those great watches.
I like this and am looking forward to future iterations. I would add the Casio Royale AE1200 with 10 year battery and the Citizen BM8180-03E as I am in no need for a Chrono function field watch. I put it on a smooth black leather strap from Fluco and it's my "in a rush" watch. I would also add the Seiko SNKL41J1, still readily available for just over $100, as the dial always calls out to me to wear.
This is a very fair list. It's worth noting that in addition to aftermarket bracelets for the Kamasu, replacement bezels are beginning to appear which opens up the first stage of modding. Speaking of bracelets, it would be kind to warn people about Vostok - the bracelets are awful. Meranom sell good, cheap mesh bracelets and they should be an automatic add-on when people get one of the watches. As for an addition to the list - I'm a big fan of the Orient Neo 70s chronos. The pandsa dial is apparently most popular, but the green and blue are both very pretty. I own the red one, and for much the same reason you recommend the red Kamasu, I think it's a keeper. Red chronos don't grow on trees. It's solar powered quartz, too, so always ready to go.
Usually I mention how bad the bracelets are in the reviews, but forgot here. Great suggestion on the Neo 70s. Reviewed one a while ago, and was pretty impressed.
I'm new to watch collecting. My interest in automatic and mechanical watches began less than a year ago. I have five Vostoks, two Seikos, and one Poljot chronograph watch in my collection!
@@RelativeTime The first Vostok that I bought was a 090916, next a 24 hour dial, Komandirskie 560541, after that one, I bought the "Batman," 170863. A 670927, and last, but not least, a 100815. I have modded all of these watches except for 170863.
Hey Shane. I like the premise. A lot. I wish that I had such info when I 1st started. I have a soft spot for the Timex Weekender and/or Expedition. I bought one, can't remember which, a while back. Bronze PVD coating, a cream military field watch dial with faux patina & a handy little pleather nato. $29! The indiglo alone is worth the price of admission! Always my first choice for camping - despite having a number of 'better' field watches, none of which can do what the Timex does. I reckon that might fit your criteria too?
Very well thought out criteria. Amazon has a sale on several different Citizen watches going on right now. Within the past 30 days; they even had the BN-151 diver for $119. I fiddled around and waited too long on that one. That; I regret!
Nice list of watches, and all I'm sure would be good to own. But ultimately the best watch you can own is the one you personally want to get, not what others suggest you buy
Great list. I'd include the orient bambino for a great entry level watch. I think the version 2 specifically is unique enough to stand on its own even when you start getting into the higher end dress watches. Definitely a must have for a beginner collection.
There are a lot of great Orients that could be on here, but I was trying to limit it to one per brand. Otherwise, it would all be orients. I did a follow-up and included the Defender that time. th-cam.com/video/vS9dteNQChY/w-d-xo.html If I do another it will definitely include the Bambino.
You are new to the mechanical or quartz watch scene? Listen to this man and subscribe to Relative Time. Solid picks. Seiko, Orient, Citizen are going to dominate this space. Additionally, I'd include the Orient Bambino and the Citizen BN-0150 Promaster eco-drive as starter picks that can do no wrong.
Not surprising since Seiko since seiko discontinued them. Kind of strange though that they hit the same price as some of the clones out there with upgraded movements and sapphire. Like Long Island watches Islander line.
I went from that Citizen and a Seiko 5 to a Grand Seiko in the span of one pandemic. Lockdown is great for feeding obsessions. I have to say, I don't love the Citizen chronograph. I bought it because, at the time, I had my eye on a Citizen field watch, but the price on Amazon jumped, so I bought it instead. As a chronograph, it kind of sucks. There's essentially no tactile feedback when you stop and reset the timer, so it's way too easy to stop by mistake. Half the time I think I'm timing something, I'm not. It's fine as a basic watch, but nothing to write home about. I use as a beater when I ride a bike. If I had known better, I would have gotten a G-Shock.
about Vostok : you can have a gmt, a diver, a 24h dial news and a dress watch (more vintage) al for 350 easily. So yes, you can mind of a vostok collection inside a collection.
Consider a Vostok komandirskie 030789 with blue ceramic bezel swap. the blue and black 39mm p753 ceramic bezel insert from ebay fits with a very small gap btwn insert and crystal in the 030 case.
Orient is great value for money. Only downside is their collection is either limited or their existing models (apart from mako/kamasu/ray/bambino line-up) are rather chunky!
I'd say for a field watch the way to go is the Orient with the subdials. It's affordable, high quality and extremely unique looking. Even if you get a Hamilton or a more expensive field watch the Orient will still get worn.
A really interesting list, the only one I would pass on is the Vostok, it's just not for me but I am seriously looking at the Casio 5610, but a good list all the same keep up the good work.
As great as your content is, honestly I come here because just listening to your voice at 0.50 playback speed and pretending we're both drunk gives me the raging horn.
I have 5 Orient watches(Mako2, Ray2, Kamasu red, Kamasu green, Kamasu gen2) now. They are all great watches, but if you shake them left and right softly for more than 10 seconds, they all speed up for 4 ~ 5 seconds immediately. If you do it again, they speed up more. Also, they all speed up approximately 10 ~15 seconds after walking for 3 ~ 5km or exercise in gym) Since all of my 5 Orient watches and SKX007 are same, I think it's normal for them. Anybody has comment for this here?
Red dial Kamasu ✅. Seiko 5, pass. Citizen Chandler✅. Hamilton King✅. Vostok Scuba Dude✅. G-Shock 5610✅. Never liked the older Seiko 5’s as they didn’t keep accurate time, and the newer versions are less of a watch but higher priced. Doubtful that I’ll get rid of any of these as they are rather unique. Thanks for the video.
Orient is definitely becoming the new Seiko, affordable, in house and solid watches
Agree 100%.
Aren't they part of Seiko? I think Seiko is positioning themselves into three tiers. Old Seiko price range = Orient. Seiko now at mid-tier $250-$2,000 and Grand Seiko above that. Makes it tough for new collectors trying to pick up old Seiko classics in a reasonable price range - which is why the homages and micro-brands are selling so well.
The whole Orient / Seiko thing can get confusing. Seiko-Epson owns Orient, and is technically a completely independent and separate company from Seiko Holdings (Seiko Watches). Yet a lot of the major Shareholders are the same for each company.
Seiko-Epson also makes movements for Seiko watches, and co-own a few companies that make parts for Seiko. In fact I think I read somewhere that Seiko-Epson actually created the Spring Drive, but they never use it themselves.
I think buying some of the NOS entry level Seiko refs is fun to do right now. The prices are up a little higher than the past, but when they’re gone, they’re gone. Fun to hold on to a bit of history in pristine condition. I bought an SNK805 for that reason. I wanted a piece of what so many had “grown up” with.
I love my Orient watches and my Epson printer 😁⌚
This is a really great list. A lot of thought behind each pick, and they all look great.
Thanks! Eventually I'll do a few more of these.
I think you got a hit on your hands. This is going to be a good series!
Best video you have done, among many good ones. Will be the starter video for friends asking about watches.
And yes. I have kept my red Kamasu after getting a white dial Seamaster.
And I have bought that Citizen for a senior citizen who can not keep his watches wound and his time set. It’s perfect.
Great to hear. I wound up giving the citizen to one of my best friends. He's not into watches at all, but really loves that one.
Great list, Shane. I appreciate the criteria you used.....especially the "availability" aspect.
Good list Shane. Your attention to avoiding unattainable micros and big investments in potentially short-lived possessions was well played.
I own the Kamasu, such a fantastic watch!
I agree. One of the best value entry level watches to get.
Funny you started with my favorite Watch the Red Kamasu. Love that watch. Because I was a submarine sailor in the 80's I had to get a Submarine Commander's Vostok and a Chinese Seagull 1963. The Irony was too much to resist. And Yes, the G-shock is my goto Saturday watch after initially wearing my Seiko 5 to say it's Seiko Saturday - which makes everyone in the family roll their eyes.
I think as a first watch a Cadisen c-1032 is a good choice ... decent specs and automatic with a nice clean look (office dress everyday) and reliable movement. Other than that one suggestion great list.
Stay up hitting the refresh button, just to get a Komodo.....best notion ever....😂😂😂 Compelling list of watchs for beginners. Cheers!
Thanks! Evidently the last couple pre-sale events for Helm have been a bigger pain in the butt.
@@RelativeTime Yeah , I haven't tried to buy from Helm , but i see many many post's of upset people not getting one ..... I think they only made 150 of the last batch , so demand heavily outweighs supply ....... All great pick's for a great 1st auto - Orient Mako 2 started it all for me :) so can't go wrong with that stunning red dial Kamasu
Yup my collection is getting to the point where I will be doing that soon.
Casio is my first love and always will be, Orient has grown a lot in me during the last years, I mean c'mon, the quality you get for the price you pay is almost unmatched. Citizen and Seiko are still a must as well as, at least, the Vostok Komandirskie and the Amphibia. Can't go wrong with any of them really.
I’m a orient fan
Wish this list had been around when I started. First watch was an SNK and then jumped immediately to a Hamilton, and I never wear the SNK anymore. Oh well. I think I'll use that one as a gift to bring someone new into the hobby.
Very impressive selection. Best part as stated in the video: Even you step up in the future they have a reason to stay in your collection. This is really a good rule!
You covered all the bases with your choices. I’m not big on chronographs except the Seagull 1963 that can be had for $150ish although the prices have been creeping up. That was sound advice for anyone starting a collection.
Thanks. Got an interesting chronograph from merkur to review. Has a Seagull mechanical movement, just like the panda one I reviewed. Yet also has a moonphase.
You must realize that your voice is reminiscent of Rod Serling. Cracks me up.
I think he sounds like the Christian Bale music narratives from American Psycho
I said the same thing!
Still loving my Omega Speedmaster three dial with date my wife bought me at the turn of the millennium in 1999 - wear it everyday day and it’s still worth more than she paid for it.
The kamasus' red dial is bedazzling..not as accurate as a seiko and the rotor movement is highly noticeable,but one can get used to it.its a great choice along w the the seiko option "silver shadow"..i just adore that black bay 36 style dress/sport combo
After thinking about getting into watches for 2 years, this video sent me over the edge. I bought 5 today - the Seiko 5 & Orient Kamasu included. I guess this was a pretty good video!
It's not a race... 😎
...Just kidding. Hope you love the Seiko and Kamasu as much as I do. Which Seiko did you get?
@@RelativeTime Due to black Friday deals, I picked up the grey Seiko SRPE61, the Kamasu in red, a Hamilton Khaki in black, a Ray Raven II, and a Mako II in blue....all for for $1000. My wardrobe now has the basics covered. Again, your video made me do it...nice content.
I agree with everyone needing a go to quartz watch ! Great selections.
Islander Watch co., is coming out with a Quartz model after the first of the year. It's going to be tough to hold out that long, but that going to be my next watch. I'm neck deep in auto's, I'm starting to re-discover my love of a Quartz.
Shane, I’m a huge fan of your videos and this is one of my favorite ones. I think all the watches you picked are spot on and I consider myself a somewhat experience collector, but now you gave me a few more watches to go back and consider. Keep producing the wonderful content and you’re doing a great job!
Nice list!
I just had my first Vostok a month ago.
Number 3 and 4 are on the way, including extra parts. A new addiction is born 🙄
Always liked the way Orient placed a metal trim around the day-date window. Gives it a nice touch!
Just picked up the Citizen AT0200 for under a hundred about a week ago! Wearing it now. Good tastes think alike, ha! Great little field watch and like you mentioned the adding stopwatch and high contract numerals were a seller for me.
Love my red Kamasu and Khaki King. Always get compliments on both of them.
The Orient Kamasu has been on my radar for some time.
a good field watch could be an Orient Defender, I love mine ... accurate, well finished, comfortable... 129Euros!
Excellent list. The Kamasu looks fantastic and it's one I think I'm going to take a look at. Agree with what you say about the Vostoks. They're a like them or don't type of watch.I own four and still find myself on Meranom thinking one more isn't going to break the bank.
Lately I'm eyeballing a black dial, coke bezel Citizen Promaster Automatic 42mm, less than 300 dollars, and truly a beauty!
BTW, great list, the red Orient Kamasu is my favorite!
Good choices. Definitely can’t go wrong with any Citizen Eco-Drives.
Great suggestions. Got a Vostok amphibia and the rotor fell off after three months, Vostok Europe GMT which gains 5 minutes every week, Seiko “55 fathoms” mod which looses 3 minutes per week. Recently my wife got me a gorgeous Bulova Accutron Swiss chronograph. By far the most accurate watch I’ve ever owned. In two months it’s still spot on with the radio controlled alarm clock. Second most accurate watch I own is a 1914 South Bend Pocket watch. Wind it daily and gains only one minute every three weeks. Back then it took a year to build a watch and another six months to adjust it. Thank you for your great reviews!
Loved hearing your thought process behind your choices. Excellent video!
Thanks so much!
Great selection of watches. Beautiful dials on the Orient and Seiko ☺️👍
I love love that you included G-Shocks on this list!!!
Awesome video!
I've only been into watches for about 2 years now. My first "big" purchase in watches was my Orient Ray II black dial... it is still one of the most worn watches even among some way more expensive Seikos I have.
It's within a 4 second /day accuracy. Rugged, fits in almost ANY setting, easy-to-read lume at any time of the night/morning.. good aftermarket support. I don't mind the bracelet that they come on either... and if that is such an issue, really decent bracelets from Strapcode for these.
I think Orient is probably the #1 best watchmaker when it comes to incredible quality for the money.
I also think Citizen is incredible value, especially the Eco-Drives... really an awesome pick-up-and-go watch, and I find Citizen have maybe superior bracelets/straps than Seiko/Orient at the same price.
Man, these watches are awesome because the low cost makes these "guilt-free" purchases that I'm NOT afraid to wear everyday... compared to some Limited/Special Edition Seikos I have.
Suggestion:
One of my favorite low-cost automatics is the Citizen NJ0100 series.
Aviator-inspired SIMPLE dial. 100m eq. water resistant, winding, easy-to-read, good case size even for smaller wrists, quality finishing on case and good leather strap. It's a sub-200$ watch that feels like it should cost way more.
The first watch you buy should have its own place in your collection, after all it’s your first
I second that!
I really enjoyed this list, well done and I agree with your suggestions, I just bought a G Shock 5610 for the exact reasons you mentioned. Also because I wanted a NASA flight certified time piece. =)
I was waiting for the Vostok Amphibia, it was my 2nd watch but the one that really got me into horology and it was mostly because of the series of videos you did with them. I still wear it even though its a black dial diver, well it's my only black dial diver. Great video this was a good idea.
Orient Bambino, if your wrist is large enough.
I was thinking of including that one too, but decided to didn't want to do too many Orients or Seikos. So I kept that back for a second episode.
There's a 36mm version which looks great too.
I have both the burgundy Kamasu and a G-Shock DW5600 and they can definetly keep up with the more expensive watches. Love both of them for being so different, especially at such a low price point.
Much love from Germany and stay healthy!
Thanks, stay safe as well.
These are all good choices.
A major watch to recommend would be the Citizen Promaster Eco Drive Driver, the BN0150-28e is the black version. Under $200, ISO rated 200m, and solar. It probably is the most affordable ISO diver.
I would also recommend the Islander watches from Long Island Watch. While they do do out of stock and are basically copies of Seiko divers, you are getting a lot for the price. Marc basically made the SKX everyone wanted, plus various versions the the 38mm version. Marc is based in the US so you wont have the issue with international shipping. I have 3 Islanders and I am very impressed by them.
Funny you should mention the Citizen Promaster. Working on a review of the blue version right now. Hopefully done before the end of the week. Sometimes they go on sale, and I got mine around $120. Which is a crazy good price for an ISO rated diver.
Good list.
For next time I'd suggest:
* Seiko Flightmaster - Slide rule bezel. Chrono. Alarm/second time zone. 200m water resist. Very few like it. Seems readily obtainable on Amazon.
* Orient Bambino - Great everyday dress / office piece. Lots of variety. I have model FAC00009N0 and it still gets wrist time even though I've added more to my collection.
* Timex Marlin Automatic - Especially if one is a Peanuts fan. I've put a Snoopy Marlin on my Xmas wish list.
Great idea on the Flightmaster. I was thinking about a Citizen Nighthawk too. Although when I checked Amazon the nighthawk's price has jumped in the last few months. So I thought I would wait and see if it comes back down.
Such a great list. I am going to check out those Vostoks.
Great history, reliability, low cost, and 10 year service interval.....good value
Orient Defender 2! Can be had for $140. I have the blasted steel black dial on Nato. Can't be beat!
Great suggestion. I've been wanting to look at a Defender 2 for a while anyways.
I have owned the Citizen that you featured for about 15 years. Its a bit banged up, but still keeps great time. The best value for money watch that I own.
I would love to see you review a Seiko SARB. The SARB035 is my favorite watch in my small collection. I received it as a gift from my family just before they were discontinued. Admittedly I haven’t experienced a vast array of watches so I don’t have a lot to compare it to. I would be happy to lend mine into the channel in a month or two from now if you’re interested.
Great video, thank you very much for not bringing ali watches on a table! Seiko SRPE61would be mu pick)
Here's how I know that DressKX is a good idea. I still want one and I have 3 dozen watches including 2 black bays (although not without the bezel).
The Citizen chrono is a great one. Always good to have a quartz, always good to have a field watch, always good to have a solar, always good to have a chrono.
Great video and some great suggestions. I look forward to more episodes in this series.
Great list. I think leaving the Orient Defender out of the field watch category is an oversight.
Defender 2 is getting the most time on my wrist!
It is. Didn't even think about it, and I've been meaning to check out a Defender 2 for a while. Although I was also trying to hold a few things back for a followup, like a Bambino.
Great list, with a lot of consideration put into it. To me the blue ring square is a killer, and so is the Amphibia (the different scuba dudes are often sold out on Meranom, though - I’m on a waiting list there for a specific model currently). Personally, I’m not a fan of day-dates, but the Kamasu still looks great 👍🏻
Excellent video and advice.
Nice job. Keep up the good work!
Can’t argue with any of them. That Kamasu is making it into my watch cabinet one way or another.
My first toe in the water watch was the British armed forces G10,totally refurbished by Eddie Platts at Timefactors.It dated back to 1982 and was issued to the Royal Navy stores.I would still encourage anyone to try one as they are still available through different outlets.It's a very simple design and very legible,early ones like mine have a battery hatch in the back.Later ones don't.I bought it because they are field tested for a long time before the Ministry of Defence will approve them....................................
Find myself often wearing a vostok 030789 with ceramic insert, a vostok Neptune gmt in a 650 case and a seagull ocean star more than my expensive pieces.
Shane, very informative and great selection of watches. I would drop the Vostok maybe culty, but way to many reliability issues. I would put in a Timex Marlin or a Sea-Gull 1963 (both culty and more reliable) in its place. Another watch I might consider for less than 300.00 is a Phoibos. Incredible value for an automatic 300 meter dive watch.You surprised me with the G-Shock selection. I have a DW5600c that I purchased in 1987. I needed a very accurate, tough watch that could handle a variety of extreme weather conditions. I stuck it in a draw in the early 90s and forgot about it. Recently rediscovered it, popped in a new battery and the thing works like the day I bought it.
Very cool. Those G-shocks can really take a licking. Which Phoibos were you thinking about? I was trying to avoid microbrands in this one, but I might do a follow-up that includes them.
@@RelativeTime The G-Shock certainly did take a beating. As for Phoibos, I kind of like the PY010E Wave Master, the abalone dial really pops, but it's out of stock. I also like the Proteus PY028B. They make some good looking watches with their own charm not just homages.
Kamasu = the new skx... It's the watch every collector should own regardless of your budget. It's just amazing for price to value ratio, and they are stunning
Brother, you teased me!
The SECOND the picture of that Vostok appeared in the video, my jaw dropped. I immediately paused it, before even listening to what you were going to say about it, and made a quick trip around the internet searching for it.
But I can NOT find one with that rust colored bezel.
That is absolutely beautiful! Hang onto that watch, as I just learned that it is not easy to find!
FOUND IT!
It was buried deep in the Vostok section on ebay, and I have to wait for it to ship from England...but I got it!
Excellent addition to my collection! Thanks brother!
@@kennedymcgovern5413 The Orange Scuba Dude with the Orange Planet Oceany like bezel? That's just a regular scuba dude with an aftermarket bezel.
I made a video about it a while ago: th-cam.com/video/A4PK-TKSZr4/w-d-xo.html
I think the bezel comes from a company called
am-diver.com/
Even though I already have an Orient Ray II and an Orient Triton/Neptune (both blue), I just bought an Orient Kamasu with the green(teal) dial. If I did not already have several Citizen Chandler chronographs, I would be tempted to get the one in this video. I have five G-SHOCK squares (and a bunch of other Casios). On my GLS-5600CL-1, I had to change the lug adapters to get a proper fit on my wrist. My other squares are fine.
Bulova Precisionist. Lots to choose from and really accurate. I love mine. Curved sapphire crystal. Smooth second hand. Great watch. Looks good in jeans or with a suit and tie. No Chronograph. They've really come down in price since I bought mine. Easy to find under $300.
The precisionists are great, I just wish they weren't as big. For a while Bulova had the Accutron II line, which had the same smooth sweep, but not the same accuracy. Although it's disappeared off their website.
I absolutely agree about the DressKX. At first I was skeptical about the new Seiko 5 lineup, but the DressKX has changed my mind, at least to the 40 mm models. Still a little pricey, but I think the prices are slowly coming down. I might get one relatively soon.
Excellent list for new watch enthusiasts, really appreciate this advice. I came quite close to following this plan but my watches were slightly different. I did go with an Orient diver but it was the orange bezel Mako XL, as it's size suited me, and despite the older movement, I love it. I considered the Seiko Dress KX, but wanted a more sporty smaller watch than the Mako and got a Seiko SRPD51K2 , love it too, for a dress type I got an Orient Tristar blue dial that I love. I do plan on getting myself a Vostok soon, that Citizen is tempting also, or possibly a Seiko field watch instead. But the G-Shock, despite it's iconic status doesn't appeal to me personally. I would also get a Kamasu and keep my Mako! Such a beautiful red dial.
Such good advice, Shane! After a long absence from watches, I avoided the mistake of the all-too-common blue diver, picking up a yellow Scurfa that still holds its own among my other divers (yes, I broke your micro brand rule, but alas).
Just found this channel, this is a good list. Subscribed
Thanks and welcome
That red burgundy Orient Is about as rare as hens teeth I love the color I’ve been wanting one but they never seem to be available. One watch that’s lacking from the list is the Casio Duro
I agree about the DURO...
I upgraded my bracelet on the Kamasu, and feels far more premium. Mine is also red, what a great watch. The Glycine Combat Sub is only a little over budget, so an option also.
Glycine Combat Sub is a great watch. Wish I would have started with one of these. Took me awhile to circle back around to get one.
Same here....I have two Kamasu’s, a red and a green. I got a Strapcode/Miltat Jubilee strap that smartens them up no end, rather than the ‘meh’ original steel strap. When they are not on the jubilee strap I have them on all sorts of NATO’s and leather straps. The Kamasu is such a strap monster, I just love it!
Same here. I have the Red Kamasu which I paired with a Strapcode Super J bracelet. I also have a Blue Kamasu which I have on a rubber strap. Both watches are fantastic.
My Citizen AT-O2OO hasn’t let me down yet. It’s been a few years and keeps good time. My only gripe was finding the right replacement band. I wear it with a 20mm NATO and keep it moving. Good list.
How about a list just on micro brands with great specs, maybe between $100 - $300 ? I am still waiting for my Kamasu red dial to come down in price. Already watch this video a few times and as always I open my Amazon, eBay, Maranom etc tabs ready to hunt. Thanks Shane.
Very well done, thank you. Loved the take
Great list. Funny thing: although I have improved after many years my collection to mid and high end Swiss brands I have the Dress KX, the green Kamasu and looking for my order on a 24h dial Vostok while searching for a good Ecodrive with a good size on case (39mm). So all in all you don’t have to be a newbie to get those great watches.
I like this and am looking forward to future iterations. I would add the Casio Royale AE1200 with 10 year battery and the Citizen BM8180-03E as I am in no need for a Chrono function field watch. I put it on a smooth black leather strap from Fluco and it's my "in a rush" watch. I would also add the Seiko SNKL41J1, still readily available for just over $100, as the dial always calls out to me to wear.
This is a very fair list. It's worth noting that in addition to aftermarket bracelets for the Kamasu, replacement bezels are beginning to appear which opens up the first stage of modding. Speaking of bracelets, it would be kind to warn people about Vostok - the bracelets are awful. Meranom sell good, cheap mesh bracelets and they should be an automatic add-on when people get one of the watches.
As for an addition to the list - I'm a big fan of the Orient Neo 70s chronos. The pandsa dial is apparently most popular, but the green and blue are both very pretty. I own the red one, and for much the same reason you recommend the red Kamasu, I think it's a keeper. Red chronos don't grow on trees. It's solar powered quartz, too, so always ready to go.
Usually I mention how bad the bracelets are in the reviews, but forgot here. Great suggestion on the Neo 70s. Reviewed one a while ago, and was pretty impressed.
What a great video Shane. Keep them coming and stay safe, the USA is very toxic right now. 😷
I'm new to watch collecting. My interest in automatic and mechanical watches began less than a year ago.
I have five Vostoks, two Seikos, and one Poljot chronograph watch in my collection!
Which Vostok's do you have?
@@RelativeTime The first Vostok that I bought was a 090916, next a 24 hour dial, Komandirskie 560541, after that one, I bought the "Batman," 170863. A 670927, and last, but not least, a 100815. I have modded all of these watches except for 170863.
Awesome list. Coincidentally, I have the kamasu LE, and the black out dresskx. 😉
Is the limited edition Kamasu the green one?
@@RelativeTime no, its the one with the navy mother of pearl dial. ;)
Hey Shane.
I like the premise. A lot. I wish that I had such info when I 1st started.
I have a soft spot for the Timex Weekender and/or Expedition. I bought one, can't remember which, a while back. Bronze PVD coating, a cream military field watch dial with faux patina & a handy little pleather nato. $29!
The indiglo alone is worth the price of admission!
Always my first choice for camping - despite having a number of 'better' field watches, none of which can do what the Timex does. I reckon that might fit your criteria too?
Definitely agree on the Kamasu - the red was my first, and it was soon followed by the green one. Very nice watches for the price.
Thanks! Which one do you like better?
@@RelativeTime I'd have to say that I'm a bit more partial to the red one - it's more eye-catching than the green, which is more subtle.
Excellent choice.
Very well thought out criteria. Amazon has a sale on several different Citizen watches going on right now. Within the past 30 days; they even had the BN-151 diver for $119. I fiddled around and waited too long on that one. That; I regret!
Nice list of watches, and all I'm sure would be good to own. But ultimately the best watch you can own is the one you personally want to get, not what others suggest you buy
Very nicely setup and presented. I have all except the Citizen, same colors even except I have the blue Seiko 5 and the aqua/blue scuba dude.
Excellent video as usual, I have the red kamasu and it is fantastic, I love it. Greetings from Mexico.
Thanks. Stay safe out there.
Great list. I'd include the orient bambino for a great entry level watch. I think the version 2 specifically is unique enough to stand on its own even when you start getting into the higher end dress watches. Definitely a must have for a beginner collection.
There are a lot of great Orients that could be on here, but I was trying to limit it to one per brand. Otherwise, it would all be orients.
I did a follow-up and included the Defender that time.
th-cam.com/video/vS9dteNQChY/w-d-xo.html
If I do another it will definitely include the Bambino.
@@RelativeTime good point. Orient has been killing it lately
Suggestion for a review is one of those funky golf watches that store your club hitting range, courses and other things that Blue Tooth to your phone.
Good suggestion. Right now I don't have a golf specific one, but a general fitness one that does that.
You are new to the mechanical or quartz watch scene? Listen to this man and subscribe to Relative Time. Solid picks. Seiko, Orient, Citizen are going to dominate this space. Additionally, I'd include the Orient Bambino and the Citizen BN-0150 Promaster eco-drive as starter picks that can do no wrong.
Practical as hell! Great options and I reckon I will buy one of those others to add to my other two, one of those being a Vostok.
Somebody else referred to helm putting up new stock and a bar fight..yep
Excellent video. Seiko Skx would be on my list although their prices have gotten in the low $300 range.
Not surprising since Seiko since seiko discontinued them. Kind of strange though that they hit the same price as some of the clones out there with upgraded movements and sapphire. Like Long Island watches Islander line.
Awsome vid as always.
I had kinda left behind my desire for that gorgeous kamasu's red sunburst dial. Now I just need it. Next on the list^^
HELM? If you find one :D
Another great video as always!!!
When you go down the rabbit hole further storage becomes a problem just saying
This is very very true.
I went from that Citizen and a Seiko 5 to a Grand Seiko in the span of one pandemic. Lockdown is great for feeding obsessions. I have to say, I don't love the Citizen chronograph. I bought it because, at the time, I had my eye on a Citizen field watch, but the price on Amazon jumped, so I bought it instead. As a chronograph, it kind of sucks. There's essentially no tactile feedback when you stop and reset the timer, so it's way too easy to stop by mistake. Half the time I think I'm timing something, I'm not. It's fine as a basic watch, but nothing to write home about. I use as a beater when I ride a bike. If I had known better, I would have gotten a G-Shock.
about Vostok : you can have a gmt, a diver, a 24h dial news and a dress watch (more vintage) al for 350 easily. So yes, you can mind of a vostok collection inside a collection.
Consider a Vostok komandirskie 030789 with blue ceramic bezel swap. the blue and black 39mm p753 ceramic bezel insert from ebay fits with a very small gap btwn insert and crystal in the 030 case.
Orient is great value for money. Only downside is their collection is either limited or their existing models (apart from mako/kamasu/ray/bambino line-up) are rather chunky!
Or some of the cool models seem to be JDM specific, and hard to find outside Japan.
@@RelativeTime very true! For Orient to be the next Seiko, they have to expand their collection and make it accessible to everyone.
Hey Shane, it's me. I did comment on one of your Kamasu videos, too. Time flies like crazy!
I'd say for a field watch the way to go is the Orient with the subdials. It's affordable, high quality and extremely unique looking. Even if you get a Hamilton or a more expensive field watch the Orient will still get worn.
A really interesting list, the only one I would pass on is the Vostok, it's just not for me but I am seriously looking at the Casio 5610, but a good list all the same keep up the good work.
Good list! I want a Kamasu but already have the ray2..... I have a Vostok, skx, and have ordered a g shock 2100 as I just can’t get used to digital
As great as your content is, honestly I come here because just listening to your voice at 0.50 playback speed and pretending we're both drunk gives me the raging horn.
🤣
He sounds like the deceased Rod Serling introducing a new episode of the Twilight Zone .
I have 5 Orient watches(Mako2, Ray2, Kamasu red, Kamasu green, Kamasu gen2) now. They are all great watches, but if you shake them left and right softly for more than 10 seconds, they all speed up for 4 ~ 5 seconds immediately. If you do it again, they speed up more. Also, they all speed up approximately 10 ~15 seconds after walking for 3 ~ 5km or exercise in gym)
Since all of my 5 Orient watches and SKX007 are same, I think it's normal for them. Anybody has comment for this here?
My Orient kamasu speeds up in she is fully wound up
Shane I just love your video production.It is some of the best....
Thanks!
Red dial Kamasu ✅. Seiko 5, pass. Citizen Chandler✅. Hamilton King✅. Vostok Scuba Dude✅. G-Shock 5610✅. Never liked the older Seiko 5’s as they didn’t keep accurate time, and the newer versions are less of a watch but higher priced. Doubtful that I’ll get rid of any of these as they are rather unique. Thanks for the video.