Marc from Long Island Watch had us putting our watches on our foreheads.. now Russ has us rubbing our watch creepily with our eyes closed.. love it 😂🤙🏼
I love watches, I have ten of them. But I'm not quite that much of a connoisseur, it's not like wine-tasting to me. And I don't mean anything bad by that--for those who pay that much attention to the details of a watch, more power to you! Personally, I just consider if I like the way it looks and feels, and will it be useful to me? And there are trade-offs there. I love my Invicta Pro Diver, but like all my other analog watches, it doesn't have a countdown timer. So I use my cheapo Timex Ironman instead. It doesn't look or feel nearly as high-quality, because it isn't. But it fits my lifestyle better.
Seiko need to up their game - dodgy hardlex glass, prices doubled or trebled overnight for the same watch, formulaic boring designs .I'd rather take my chances on a cheaper watch
Hey Russ, fun as always! You are a guy who could be happy with just one watch I believe - if it was a decent Seiko 😆 This guide wouldn't value a G-Shock. But I do 😉😁 Cheeeers
To be fair to Omega, hesalite adds a sort of 'warmth' to the appearance of the dial.......that you can get from vintage watches. I'd go hesalite rather than sapphire if buying a Moon watch.
The dynamic pressure on a watch from you moving your arms through the water is almost negligible. A human is not strong enough to move their limbs through the water fast enough. This is a myth that gets perpetuated on forums all the time. It's simply not true.
Another top video Russ. One more that I would add is, "Is the watch fit for my purpose?", so if you are building sheds for a living a G-Shock might be a better option than a say an AP or an FPJ. The reverse may be true if you're going out to a posh restaurant event and hoping not to have to pick up the tab.
This is a great show for anyone new to watches and a great reminder for those of us who have been collecting for so long we sometimes can’t see the wood for the trees 😂 Awesome stuff as always MWC!
Top tips for getting a good quality watch, for me it’s all about if it makes me smile or not when I look at it. One of my favourite watches ever is the AE1200 and that always puts a smile on my face so it’s not always down to price.. I like them so much I have three! One in resin, one silver and one SKX modded that I adore! That watch has been around the world with me many times and served it’s true purpose, the GBD200 in fluoro I also adore and that was £90! I like the dual time on the same screen functionality a lot
Superb my friend!!! A good watch doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg! The price has to reflect what you get for your money! Then there’s that unquantifiable measure of feelgoodness only you can gauge !
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTORI also like that my colleagues now know me as a “watch guy” and whilst they won’t be rushing out to spend a few grand, many of them now own Casio’s and G’s because of me👍🏻😂
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR yea, I have some standards to feel good and confident wearing my watches but those standards should be realistic so I can be happy with my collection.
Essential viewing for anyone new to watches. My main point would be that everyone is different, and it takes a long time to decide what it is you like.... so try may watches on, and don't just buy because of hype or TH-cam people telling you "every collector needs a Speedmaster "... and I know this because I bought one for the same reason.. and sold it within a few months
Great video! If a watch keeps good time I feel I got a good watch, either quartz, which typically stays more accurate, or an automatic. Of course the other aspects you mentioned are important as well but the main thing a watch should do is to accurately tell the time. Have a great day!
Any watch over £500 should be grade 5 titanium inc the band and sapphire. I dont want to worry about my watch getting scratches. Ive got ti sapphire watchs ive worn for years without a mark on them.
The most important test for my money is the "Can I wear this most of the time, if I have to?" I love the Marathon 46mm chronograph, but I can't fit it under a cuff at all. I love a super slim Movado but I can't wear one doing anything rough. To buy either, I would need a great excuse or a way off getting around the limits. Is that worth it for a watch or is a Seiko Sumo GMT better bang for the buck for *me*? Having just gotten off a plane, sloughing off 8 hours of jetlag, the Solar GMT Sumo won out and I have no regrets. Still want the Marathon though.
I do like a bit of weight on a watch, so that I can feel it on my wrist. This doesn't prove it's a good watch of course, but I tend to find it reassuring? That might not be very reliable and I know there are some great titanium watches out there that are very light weight (I love the idea of an Oris Pro-Pilot X - the spec for the money is silly) - but a bit of wrist heft is just something that give me a bit of confidence in it.
I think the last reason sums it up - I love my Seiko Monster [despite Hardlex which would become Sapphire if I scratched it] because it makes me happy to look at it to see the time and perversely the fact the glass has lasted over 10 years has elevated it to "lucky watch". I have a very old TAG and a very young GShock that have the "happy" effect. Other watches I own are liked but often despite little things that could be improved and I find the cheaper they are the more forgiving I am - $75 coated Brass cased/mineral glass Timex is staying because the lumeless dial and hands are an unusual design and the IndiGlo is unbelievable .. but it's only occasionally worn as its not tough enough to be an everyday wearer.
I do have a system for buying watches. I stick with the brand that makes the movement for 90% of watches on the market even if that brands name is not on the watch.... Seiko. Next I buy Casio because Casio is God tier, period. Finally, I avoid anything Swiss because I hate the feeling of having over paid for the brand name and affordable Swiss is just clunky and cheap and I hate the feeling when wearing them. That's it, easy peasy. Good show MWC. Love your channel.
Agree with your appraisal - I didi buy a Certina diver ( Iso cert) as it was in a sale ( which I waited for). I know the movement gets replaced , but the costs of ownership ( same price as a service for my other watches) I calculated before made it OK in my mind.
Yes, steel is the standard for decent watch case but don't just dismiss all brass or bronze watches because not all of them created equal. Cheap watch case regardless material will always very thin, no quality feeling and will age badly. I have a brass watch but the build quality is decent. It is thick, feels substantial, not as corossion resistant as stainless steel but at least not turn my skin green. I even like it because it looks unique compare to 'boring' steel.
This is a must watch for people newly getting into watches, as well as being a great list to consider. Overall I agree, and I go with a similar system although each category is weighted differently (in my mind!) when I'm making a purchasing decision
#11 Check your box to make sure there's an empty space for this watch. Also #12 when Mrs. MWC says it's a horrible watch, you should double-check on it, it's probably worth buying, haha. Just kidding, in the last video the chosen watch set was proper! 💯
If you pay top dollar for a watch like Omega, Breitling or Rolex all your paying for is the movement inside it. They don't measure a different time to a Casio, Lorus, Timex or Limit which are all decent watch brands and have the bonus of looking good on your wrist as well as looking good for your bank account. Another great video. Well done.
Also avoid watch bracelets that use cotter pins. The cotter pins wear out the holes of each link and therefore makes the cotter pins loose over time. They are unacceptable for heirloom watches, and most brands have abandoned using them, except Swatch Group.
I can understand Omega using something other than sapphire on some of their models. All the vintage Speedmaster and Seamaster models had acrylic crystals. Acrylic scratches easily but is resistant to cracking or shattering. That was good for astronauts that didn't want glass shards floating about their cramped capsules. The acrylic scratches are easy to polish off. I remove scratches from my 1969 Seamaster with a pencil eraser. Sapphire shatters too.
And beside that some dials looks better through an acrylic crystal for a more vintage distorted look rather then sapphire, look at some longines for instance
In my opinion the first thing is if the watch makes you smile and feel emotional. If yes, then you follow the mad watch collector steps. Great video,thanks ❤ btw also it must match your pesonality.. - something like people-dogs, people - cars😂
Another important consideration is that your watch will never be as good as your next one. If you get this right you know you have a good one and allows you to validate your next purchase😊
When I can get a Pagani Design in stainless steel, sapphire glass, and a japanese movement, all for £60 delivered then it really makes me re-evaluate the value of other bigger brands.
Yes agree ! It’s a trade off isn’t it. This brand makes money from other brands designs taking away the design costs and marketing costs and shareholder costs that come with it. Also how are these watches made? And why are they being made? Get through that out the other end and still love it, it’s win!!!
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR I agree that homage watches don't have those costs, but given the quality there is a comparison to be made. These are not just cheap knock-off watches. It seems that a lot of the difference in price between a homage and a brand name is really the marketing costs. I am happy to pay more for a Seiko watch if I feel that I am getting better quality, not just paying for the name.
@Subcomandante73 it’s not just the name. It’s the amount of time over decades of designers , engineers hard work my friend. You’re not just paying for the name .
Knowledge on the product is key. Pleasing to the eye, good specs and also fit on the wrist. Great video for newbies and to refresh seasoned collectors as well.
Seiko’s argument for sh1tlex is the same argument they have for pressed clasps, penny pinching which is frustrating for Seiko lovers when they see watches at half the price getting milled clasps and Sapphire 🥺
Actually those classic pressed clasps from seiko are very comfortable but the hard lex is just unacceptable today for any watch with a price over 150 €\£\$.
I thought fondling my piece with eyes shut was going to be anticlimactic as I was wearing the khaki field mechanical at the time. But it was surprisingly satisfying! It was like I'd never felt it before
I have a Seiko 5. Five being the number of minutes it looses everyday……… reliably. Starting my day with a time reset brings me present and in-the-moment.
I shouldn't call myself brave, but I'm willing to buy a no name tennis ball without blinking. Because I will only use it in the dryer. Also I believe you forgot the important part about: What does the wife say!
Great Video as always Russ!! Thanks. For me, it's now down to three criteria (obviously there are more but my top gut feeling): Face/dial looks appealing to me (which includes 'ugly cute' G-Shocks and Casios generally!), price/value for money (can't and won't pay over the odd or follow a hyped up watch trend) and wearability. Like you, my wrist is 6.5" and I can't wear massive heavy 'plates', so sadly the King (Casio) is not for me, nor the Moon Bulova and probably not the Arnie, sadly...But plenty of Seikos, G-shocks and Zelos etc...out there. Very tempted by the Seiko Alpinist, just not too keen on the price still. Bit steep on a nurse's salary. Cheers.
I mostly agree except on two points which I call "TH-cam Influencer myths." 1) Hardlex can be better than sapphire.If the sapphire doesn't have AR, it will be unreadable and looks cheap. I wear my watches hard, and I've never scratched a Hardlex. 2) Bracelets with solid end links and milled clasps are heavy and mostly unwearable IMO. Finally, I don't get the "rattley" argument. Who hold their watch and rattles it other than TH-cam influencers?
Originally Omega made Moonwatch with hesalite crystal, and the watch is still available in that version. They've made it for a reason though - if a regular glass or sapphire shattered in orbit, during "extravehicular activity", those pieces wouldn't just "fall". In zero-gravity conditions they would float around, creating possible danger to equipment and space suits, while hesalite just cracks, but stays in place. But those guys at Omega aren't dumb, they realize virtually none of us will ever get into space, so you actually can buy the same watch with sapphire crystal (unless as a collector you just really want that "original" thing). I wish Seiko would take notes, because there are some Aliexpress brands, which make currently better watches than them, in terms of materials used and quality of finishing (and hilariously they often run on Seiko movements). As to materials - yeah, I'm a fan of stainless steel myself, but I also go for other materials, for the sake of variety in my collection. I mean, I can imagine somebody owning 200 diver watches from different brands, but if they all look "samey", it's kind of boring, isn't it? So, even if I don't like plastic that much, some G-Shocks and Casios are a "must" in every collection. Same with bronze - it may not be a great material, but it has nice look, and the advantage in the fact, that you can keep it clean, or let it cover itself with patina, if you wish. Bulova has some nice ceramic watches (including ceramic bracelets). While normally I wouldn't trust the concept of a "wooden watch", Holzkern has some nice looking models - mostly these, which incorporate wood just partially, for the bracelet, and they also extensively use various stones for dials (like marble or malachite). Spec-wise some of their watches look solid (on paper), I just don't know that much about this brand, so I'm not yet convinced to buy one of their products.
I wish I’d known a bit more about movements when I bought my Tissot T-Race. I still love wearing it, but right out of warranty the movement broke, which for about 600 pounds I’d paid, I replaced for I don’t think much more than a tenner. Also the reason, even though I loved the concept of the Moonswatch it’s the same movement and I wouldn’t touch it.
Definitely agree with your sentiment. Especially regarding the feel good test. I have a blnr on jubilee that received very little wrist time. Purchased the oyster bracelet from Rolex and now that same blnr now feels fantastic.. Crazy I know but it never felt right with the jubilee.. Just saying
Just picked up a Invicta 1953 Batman Diver. Took off the bracelet and put on a Seiko brown leather strap. It has Seiko movement and strap now lol. I honestly can’t afford a Seiko right now, and I always wanted a Batman automatic watch. But Timex and Seiko cost too much. I have been wanting a watch for a couple months now. So I got this Batman variant 1953 Invicta for $74 new. It’s automatic. And I really like it.
Grate list of checkpoints 👍 One caveat though: MIL-Spec watches and sapphire glass! MIL-Spec”ish” watches might go for the looks of a military watch, but they will add sapphire for the premium feel…..but they will NOT meet MIL-specs, as a shattered crystal will render a watch useless on the battlefield, while a scratched crystal will still retain the function of the watch, and only marginally reduce readability 🤷🏽♂️ …. Thus MIL-spec watches do go for either “Hesalite” or mineral crystals 😄😉
It's been donkeys years since I was running around with an assault rifle on OPEX. I'm not sure that many squaddies know that much about watches - I certainly didn't. I think if I were a serving today I would want a sapphire crystal, there is a certain expense to getting a watch and for most soldiers it will be their only watch. To be worn in the field and when you hit town on leave, would be nice to have one that isn't scuffed up too much. It would need to be a quartz movement too, something that keeps accurate time without needing to be wound and fiddling around to set the date. But one thing that absolutely needs to be good is the bracelet it needs to be obviously really solid but also comfortable bearing in mind that most soldiers sleep with their watch on - especially en mission. I think today I would go for a Seiko Prospex Compact Solar Diver SNE583P1. Maybe with a spare strap or two to switch it up when you go out on leave.
@@askari_jones Thank you for this great insight into military “field” watches 👍 And thanks for mentioning the 38.5 mm SEIKO SNE583! Great looking watch, that wasn’t on my radar 😄
This is an awesome service to the community my friend. Now if I were in a situation where I need to introduce someone new into watches on how to separate the good ones from the bad, I’d just send them this vid! Thanks
Loving your show more than ever. I have what I would consider the greatest monster mash of them all in my collection; a 1970s inspired chronograph by Junghans, lunched for the Japan 2020 Olympics that, well didn’t really happen in 2020, limited to 200 pieces, and is a red Panda stunner! Cafe racer supreme 😮(But it’s quartz… have I lost you?). That’s my hidden gem, what’s yours?
There's the tacky factor - that the cost of your watch shouldn't exceed the total cost of your outfit by $150.00. Basically, a guy wearing cutoff denim shorts, a wife beater, and a pair of flipflops shouldn't be wearing a $25,000.00 Rolex.
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Sapphire can absolutely scratch. Even diamonds can be scratched. Good video otherwise.
Talking of watch mistakes - What do you think of Seiko watch mods? CS Watches seem to produce some nice ones - I'm rather tempted by one or 3 of them. Thoughts Mad Watch Gang????
Don't be hatin' on wood Russel! Wood and stone were the first materials cavemen used to make their watches (including movements!) and they served them well if you look how far humanity went from living in caves and banging rocks together.
Excellent masterclass in what watches are all about for us. Thanks Russell 👍. I've been away from your channel for a while due to other commitments and the fact that I've literally had no spare money to start my watch journey. But things might be changing a little. You recommended the Seagull 1963 as a good starter. Looking at the Seiko 5 series they're not as good value as they used to be. The next step as a retirement present to myself might be a Squale or a Sinn 😊
more than 1 complication is a waste, I'll take a date window and that's all I really need, 3-4 complications, the manufacturer is just jacking themselves off to their own expertise and I'm not paying for that- its just a watch for God's sakes, it isn't going to solve world hunger.
Dear valuable mad friend I have been following you for a long time. I wish you revew for us the great Italian made watch Venezianico. They did great last year. I insist on having your unbiased revew as always. Many thanks With great love and appreciation . Hapy new year to you and your beloved family, including the newcomer Nizar
Does the second hand match to the second markers on the dial? Also, for dive watches (and others) does the bezel top position match the 12 o'clock position on the dial? These details may not be a way that you can establish that you have a good quality watch but conversely, they can tell you that you don't!
Seiko must remember its customer base. The new seiko 5 sort if miss the mark on water resistance. At least Marc from islander put in the grocery list of desirable traits on his products. Quality control is king. The movements must be A1 once tested and put to market. Lume with Seiko is landmark. I am ok with acrylic, but sapphire belongs on a higher bracket product.
Hey bud, i am looking to buy a proper watch for work. I drive trucks, so i was thinking to get me a gorgeous Christopher Ward trident pro 600 on the # sporty strap. What's tour take on that piece?
As for the sweep or high beat; I own both and over the years I have found the lower beat last longer and need very little service. I would go Seiko before Omega as an example. It’s the ego person that just has to have a Rolex, Petek etc.
I’m glad you didn’t discuss power reserve. I think it’s the most overhyped characteristic of a watch. I mean, if it’s a daily it’ll never run out of power. If it’s a “sometimes” all that needs to be done is set and shake.
For my money, you have already shown me the best watch. I don’t know how I made it to the age of 56 without buying a Casio G Shock, but bought a DW 5600 a year ago based on one of your videos. I barely take it off my wrist. I guess you need something a little sportier on occasion, but this watch handles 90% of my timekeeping needs
For new watch enthusiasts. Quartz watches are not to be sneezed at. They are cheaper to buy and also cheaper to maintain. Also, don’t buy watches straight off the internet without trying them on first.
It's a good video, but 10 points and not a mention of accuracy, battery life, solar, atomic radio sync, or even Bluetooth time sync... or legibility! What you did was a "how to buy jewellery" list, not how to buy an watch that tells the time! I guess if it's just jewellery you don't need to worry about servicing costs either? 😂
Buddy, thank you. This is stellar content for those entering the hobby. I got onboard just over a year ago (and subscribed swiftly to MWC), and this is precisely the kind of enlightening dialogue I craved at the time (no pun intended). This, I'm certain, will be a succinct guide for folks in my former, albeit recent, shoes. Spot on agree with your assessments, insight and conclusions. But! What's the wife's opinion?!? We'd all benefit, I'm convinced, from her assertions as well...?
Please stop that dynamic preasure myth when it comes to water depth. It has been proven many times to be nearly neglectable. Other than that very good points and a great video. Thanks!
Watch and learn #6 by Marc from Long Island Watch has great information on that subject. From around 18:30 minutes onwards. It is a myth. I agree with you however that I would not go swimming with a 50m watch.
What's wrong with your date function on the Longines at 10:40? The watch says 2:51-ish yet the date appears to be changing. It seems to be operating properly in all the rest of the shots.
Marc from Long Island Watch had us putting our watches on our foreheads.. now Russ has us rubbing our watch creepily with our eyes closed.. love it 😂🤙🏼
Hahahahaha yeah mine is creepy!!!
I love your show. There is an advantage of mineral, you can repair the scratches easily with polywatch :)
I love watches, I have ten of them. But I'm not quite that much of a connoisseur, it's not like wine-tasting to me. And I don't mean anything bad by that--for those who pay that much attention to the details of a watch, more power to you! Personally, I just consider if I like the way it looks and feels, and will it be useful to me? And there are trade-offs there. I love my Invicta Pro Diver, but like all my other analog watches, it doesn't have a countdown timer. So I use my cheapo Timex Ironman instead. It doesn't look or feel nearly as high-quality, because it isn't. But it fits my lifestyle better.
Brilliant said my friend! All the very best to you
Seiko need to up their game - dodgy hardlex glass, prices doubled or trebled overnight for the same watch, formulaic boring designs .I'd rather take my chances on a cheaper watch
You have low, middle and expensive in Seiko. They give everyone a market to buy in. Besides anyone can mod a Seiko and add a sapphire crystal.
Hey Russ, fun as always! You are a guy who could be happy with just one watch I believe - if it was a decent Seiko 😆 This guide wouldn't value a G-Shock. But I do 😉😁 Cheeeers
To be fair to Omega, hesalite adds a sort of 'warmth' to the appearance of the dial.......that you can get from vintage watches.
I'd go hesalite rather than sapphire if buying a Moon watch.
The dynamic pressure on a watch from you moving your arms through the water is almost negligible. A human is not strong enough to move their limbs through the water fast enough. This is a myth that gets perpetuated on forums all the time. It's simply not true.
100% agreed
Another top video Russ. One more that I would add is, "Is the watch fit for my purpose?", so if you are building sheds for a living a G-Shock might be a better option than a say an AP or an FPJ. The reverse may be true if you're going out to a posh restaurant event and hoping not to have to pick up the tab.
A good watch is that what brings a smile on your face when you look at your wrist!
This is a great show for anyone new to watches and a great reminder for those of us who have been collecting for so long we sometimes can’t see the wood for the trees 😂
Awesome stuff as always MWC!
Cheers Gareth!
Lol. It's seeing the forest through the trees. You must not be American.
@@tyarnold4088Lol. It's seeing the wood for the trees. You must not be British. 😂
Sinn U50, the gold standard. I love mine. (Disclaimer: I'm German😅)
Top tips for getting a good quality watch, for me it’s all about if it makes me smile or not when I look at it.
One of my favourite watches ever is the AE1200 and that always puts a smile on my face so it’s not always down to price.. I like them so much I have three! One in resin, one silver and one SKX modded that I adore! That watch has been around the world with me many times and served it’s true purpose, the GBD200 in fluoro I also adore and that was £90! I like the dual time on the same screen functionality a lot
Superb my friend!!! A good watch doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg! The price has to reflect what you get for your money! Then there’s that unquantifiable measure of feelgoodness only you can gauge !
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTORI also like that my colleagues now know me as a “watch guy” and whilst they won’t be rushing out to spend a few grand, many of them now own Casio’s and G’s because of me👍🏻😂
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR yea, I have some standards to feel good and confident wearing my watches but those standards should be realistic so I can be happy with my collection.
Essential viewing for anyone new to watches.
My main point would be that everyone is different, and it takes a long time to decide what it is you like.... so try may watches on, and don't just buy because of hype or TH-cam people telling you "every collector needs a Speedmaster "... and I know this because I bought one for the same reason.. and sold it within a few months
Great video! If a watch keeps good time I feel I got a good watch, either quartz, which typically stays more accurate, or an automatic. Of course the other aspects you mentioned are important as well but the main thing a watch should do is to accurately tell the time. Have a great day!
Any watch over £500 should be grade 5 titanium inc the band and sapphire.
I dont want to worry about my watch getting scratches.
Ive got ti sapphire watchs ive worn for years without a mark on them.
The most important test for my money is the "Can I wear this most of the time, if I have to?" I love the Marathon 46mm chronograph, but I can't fit it under a cuff at all. I love a super slim Movado but I can't wear one doing anything rough. To buy either, I would need a great excuse or a way off getting around the limits. Is that worth it for a watch or is a Seiko Sumo GMT better bang for the buck for *me*? Having just gotten off a plane, sloughing off 8 hours of jetlag, the Solar GMT Sumo won out and I have no regrets.
Still want the Marathon though.
I do like a bit of weight on a watch, so that I can feel it on my wrist. This doesn't prove it's a good watch of course, but I tend to find it reassuring? That might not be very reliable and I know there are some great titanium watches out there that are very light weight (I love the idea of an Oris Pro-Pilot X - the spec for the money is silly) - but a bit of wrist heft is just something that give me a bit of confidence in it.
Great video as always. 😃
Could you review/cover any Luminox watches in any of your future videos?
Thanks!
It'll happen soon!
Luminox is trash mate, over priced junk. get a deep blue watch for a fraction of the price and much more quality (stealth ops one is neat)
and dont forget what the wife might say ?
Thats a separate show!
I think the last reason sums it up - I love my Seiko Monster [despite Hardlex which would become Sapphire if I scratched it] because it makes me happy to look at it to see the time and perversely the fact the glass has lasted over 10 years has elevated it to "lucky watch". I have a very old TAG and a very young GShock that have the "happy" effect. Other watches I own are liked but often despite little things that could be improved and I find the cheaper they are the more forgiving I am - $75 coated Brass cased/mineral glass Timex is staying because the lumeless dial and hands are an unusual design and the IndiGlo is unbelievable .. but it's only occasionally worn as its not tough enough to be an everyday wearer.
I do have a system for buying watches. I stick with the brand that makes the movement for 90% of watches on the market even if that brands name is not on the watch.... Seiko. Next I buy Casio because Casio is God tier, period. Finally, I avoid anything Swiss because I hate the feeling of having over paid for the brand name and affordable Swiss is just clunky and cheap and I hate the feeling when wearing them. That's it, easy peasy. Good show MWC. Love your channel.
Very logical my friend! Thank you!
Agree with your appraisal - I didi buy a Certina diver ( Iso cert) as it was in a sale ( which I waited for).
I know the movement gets replaced , but the costs of ownership ( same price as a service for my other watches) I calculated before made it OK in my mind.
Yes, steel is the standard for decent watch case but don't just dismiss all brass or bronze watches because not all of them created equal. Cheap watch case regardless material will always very thin, no quality feeling and will age badly. I have a brass watch but the build quality is decent. It is thick, feels substantial, not as corossion resistant as stainless steel but at least not turn my skin green. I even like it because it looks unique compare to 'boring' steel.
ps An episode on good Budget/Affordable bronze watches ;-)
Tried the ‘blind test’. Fell downstairs.
Great show, just waiting on the ambulance.
Hahahahahahahaha
Lets get into it!!
This is a must watch for people newly getting into watches, as well as being a great list to consider. Overall I agree, and I go with a similar system although each category is weighted differently (in my mind!) when I'm making a purchasing decision
#11 Check your box to make sure there's an empty space for this watch. Also #12 when Mrs. MWC says it's a horrible watch, you should double-check on it, it's probably worth buying, haha. Just kidding, in the last video the chosen watch set was proper! 💯
If you pay top dollar for a watch like Omega, Breitling or Rolex all your paying for is the movement inside it. They don't measure a different time to a Casio, Lorus, Timex or Limit which are all decent watch brands and have the bonus of looking good on your wrist as well as looking good for your bank account.
Another great video. Well done.
I might be mistaken here, but I think you are crazy 🤣
Took some time to get used to your style, frankly, but then happily subscribed. Keep them coming!
Great content, especially for newbie’s 👍🏻
Also avoid watch bracelets that use cotter pins. The cotter pins wear out the holes of each link and therefore makes the cotter pins loose over time. They are unacceptable for heirloom watches, and most brands have abandoned using them, except Swatch Group.
I can understand Omega using something other than sapphire on some of their models. All the vintage Speedmaster and Seamaster models had acrylic crystals. Acrylic scratches easily but is resistant to cracking or shattering. That was good for astronauts that didn't want glass shards floating about their cramped capsules. The acrylic scratches are easy to polish off. I remove scratches from my 1969 Seamaster with a pencil eraser. Sapphire shatters too.
And beside that some dials looks better through an acrylic crystal for a more vintage distorted look rather then sapphire, look at some longines for instance
In my opinion the first thing is if the watch makes you smile and feel emotional. If yes, then you follow the mad watch collector steps. Great video,thanks ❤ btw also it must match your pesonality.. - something like people-dogs, people - cars😂
Please, it's sapphire or sapphire crystal, sapphire glass does not make sense
It’s a watch show Pete?!? What else do you think I’m talking about? Y’wifes jewellery?!?!
Just buy a bb58....
My watches are the best because I buy the ones reviewed by
THE MAD WATCH COLLECTOR
You are now my favourite!!
Another important consideration is that your watch will never be as good as your next one. If you get this right you know you have a good one and allows you to validate your next purchase😊
When I can get a Pagani Design in stainless steel, sapphire glass, and a japanese movement, all for £60 delivered then it really makes me re-evaluate the value of other bigger brands.
Yes agree ! It’s a trade off isn’t it. This brand makes money from other brands designs taking away the design costs and marketing costs and shareholder costs that come with it. Also how are these watches made? And why are they being made? Get through that out the other end and still love it, it’s win!!!
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR I agree that homage watches don't have those costs, but given the quality there is a comparison to be made. These are not just cheap knock-off watches. It seems that a lot of the difference in price between a homage and a brand name is really the marketing costs. I am happy to pay more for a Seiko watch if I feel that I am getting better quality, not just paying for the name.
@Subcomandante73 it’s not just the name. It’s the amount of time over decades of designers , engineers hard work my friend. You’re not just paying for the name .
Knowledge on the product is key. Pleasing to the eye, good specs and also fit on the wrist.
Great video for newbies and to refresh seasoned collectors as well.
Seiko’s argument for sh1tlex is the same argument they have for pressed clasps, penny pinching which is frustrating for Seiko lovers when they see watches at half the price getting milled clasps and Sapphire 🥺
Just picked up a Seiko prospex spb297 blue birch for half price but CW is my next on the list
Actually those classic pressed clasps from seiko are very comfortable but the hard lex is just unacceptable today for any watch with a price over 150 €\£\$.
@@vasilepoteras5855this is true
It's crazy that the Chinese can have sapphire, a 5 link bracelet with solid endlinks and a milled clasp under $60 it's actually insane
@Unlucky1776 because, they don't need R&D for a design and put their R&D money on sapphire and milled clasp
I thought fondling my piece with eyes shut was going to be anticlimactic as I was wearing the khaki field mechanical at the time. But it was surprisingly satisfying! It was like I'd never felt it before
I have a Seiko 5. Five being the number of minutes it looses everyday……… reliably. Starting my day with a time reset brings me present and in-the-moment.
I shouldn't call myself brave, but I'm willing to buy a no name tennis ball without blinking. Because I will only use it in the dryer. Also I believe you forgot the important part about: What does the wife say!
That needs a separate show
Does the dog eating the tennis ball fall under the "anything wrong" clause??? Asking for my furry friend
Hahahahahaha
Great Video as always Russ!! Thanks. For me, it's now down to three criteria (obviously there are more but my top gut feeling): Face/dial looks appealing to me (which includes 'ugly cute' G-Shocks and Casios generally!), price/value for money (can't and won't pay over the odd or follow a hyped up watch trend) and wearability. Like you, my wrist is 6.5" and I can't wear massive heavy 'plates', so sadly the King (Casio) is not for me, nor the Moon Bulova and probably not the Arnie, sadly...But plenty of Seikos, G-shocks and Zelos etc...out there. Very tempted by the Seiko Alpinist, just not too keen on the price still. Bit steep on a nurse's salary. Cheers.
I mostly agree except on two points which I call "TH-cam Influencer myths." 1) Hardlex can be better than sapphire.If the sapphire doesn't have AR, it will be unreadable and looks cheap. I wear my watches hard, and I've never scratched a Hardlex. 2) Bracelets with solid end links and milled clasps are heavy and mostly unwearable IMO. Finally, I don't get the "rattley" argument. Who hold their watch and rattles it other than TH-cam influencers?
Thanks for the points !
I FEEL more SATISFIED with my WATCHES after watching this video😅 thanks for the AMAZING video!!!!
Originally Omega made Moonwatch with hesalite crystal, and the watch is still available in that version. They've made it for a reason though - if a regular glass or sapphire shattered in orbit, during "extravehicular activity", those pieces wouldn't just "fall". In zero-gravity conditions they would float around, creating possible danger to equipment and space suits, while hesalite just cracks, but stays in place.
But those guys at Omega aren't dumb, they realize virtually none of us will ever get into space, so you actually can buy the same watch with sapphire crystal (unless as a collector you just really want that "original" thing). I wish Seiko would take notes, because there are some Aliexpress brands, which make currently better watches than them, in terms of materials used and quality of finishing (and hilariously they often run on Seiko movements).
As to materials - yeah, I'm a fan of stainless steel myself, but I also go for other materials, for the sake of variety in my collection. I mean, I can imagine somebody owning 200 diver watches from different brands, but if they all look "samey", it's kind of boring, isn't it? So, even if I don't like plastic that much, some G-Shocks and Casios are a "must" in every collection. Same with bronze - it may not be a great material, but it has nice look, and the advantage in the fact, that you can keep it clean, or let it cover itself with patina, if you wish. Bulova has some nice ceramic watches (including ceramic bracelets). While normally I wouldn't trust the concept of a "wooden watch", Holzkern has some nice looking models - mostly these, which incorporate wood just partially, for the bracelet, and they also extensively use various stones for dials (like marble or malachite). Spec-wise some of their watches look solid (on paper), I just don't know that much about this brand, so I'm not yet convinced to buy one of their products.
Something tells me you own one my friend:)
Operation was the best ! 🥰
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR Not yet, but some models are quite appealing...😅
I wish I’d known a bit more about movements when I bought my Tissot T-Race. I still love wearing it, but right out of warranty the movement broke, which for about 600 pounds I’d paid, I replaced for I don’t think much more than a tenner. Also the reason, even though I loved the concept of the Moonswatch it’s the same movement and I wouldn’t touch it.
I love watching your videos you're awesome!
Very excited for the spirit 37mm review
Slazenger Wimbledon or Dunlop ATP depending on the court.
Slazenger are great for an hour then are done! Dunlop are weird and heavy! Head Radical I use;)
Definitely agree with your sentiment. Especially regarding the feel good test. I have a blnr on jubilee that received very little wrist time. Purchased the oyster bracelet from Rolex and now that same blnr now feels fantastic.. Crazy I know but it never felt right with the jubilee.. Just saying
Milled clasps are uncomfortable as my arm hairs get caught in them - so I prefer a cheaper pressed clasp.
This was a good one. Well done MWC
I mean your watch is buggered either way, isn't it........(@4.02)🤣🤣 PMPL
Excellent info, but I’m confused -
point 1 = Seiko good,
pretty much all the rest = Seiko bad.
So which is it ?😳
For me! It’s the 1st and last points that get me ;)
Fair enough 👍
Just picked up a Invicta 1953 Batman Diver. Took off the bracelet and put on a Seiko brown leather strap. It has Seiko movement and strap now lol. I honestly can’t afford a Seiko right now, and I always wanted a Batman automatic watch. But Timex and Seiko cost too much. I have been wanting a watch for a couple months now. So I got this Batman variant 1953 Invicta for $74 new. It’s automatic. And I really like it.
Grate list of checkpoints 👍
One caveat though: MIL-Spec watches and sapphire glass! MIL-Spec”ish” watches might go for the looks of a military watch, but they will add sapphire for the premium feel…..but they will NOT meet MIL-specs, as a shattered crystal will render a watch useless on the battlefield, while a scratched crystal will still retain the function of the watch, and only marginally reduce readability 🤷🏽♂️ …. Thus MIL-spec watches do go for either “Hesalite” or mineral crystals 😄😉
It's been donkeys years since I was running around with an assault rifle on OPEX.
I'm not sure that many squaddies know that much about watches - I certainly didn't.
I think if I were a serving today I would want a sapphire crystal, there is a certain expense to getting a watch and for most soldiers it will be their only watch. To be worn in the field and when you hit town on leave, would be nice to have one that isn't scuffed up too much.
It would need to be a quartz movement too, something that keeps accurate time without needing to be wound and fiddling around to set the date. But one thing that absolutely needs to be good is the bracelet it needs to be obviously really solid but also comfortable bearing in mind that most soldiers sleep with their watch on - especially en mission.
I think today I would go for a Seiko Prospex Compact Solar Diver SNE583P1. Maybe with a spare strap or two to switch it up when you go out on leave.
@@askari_jones
Thank you for this great insight into military “field” watches 👍
And thanks for mentioning the 38.5 mm SEIKO SNE583! Great looking watch, that wasn’t on my radar 😄
Even the G-Shock GW 5000 U features only Mineral Glass. Disappointing.
This is an awesome service to the community my friend. Now if I were in a situation where I need to introduce someone new into watches on how to separate the good ones from the bad, I’d just send them this vid! Thanks
Hey MWC, have you ever reviewed the brand Elliot Brown?? Is it another UK micro brand worth investigating??
Loving your show more than ever. I have what I would consider the greatest monster mash of them all in my collection; a 1970s inspired chronograph by Junghans, lunched for the Japan 2020 Olympics that, well didn’t really happen in 2020, limited to 200 pieces, and is a red Panda stunner! Cafe racer supreme 😮(But it’s quartz… have I lost you?). That’s my hidden gem, what’s yours?
There's the tacky factor - that the cost of your watch shouldn't exceed the total cost of your outfit by $150.00. Basically, a guy wearing cutoff denim shorts, a wife beater, and a pair of flipflops shouldn't be wearing a $25,000.00 Rolex.
Sapphire can absolutely scratch. Even diamonds can be scratched. Good video otherwise.
Why is the date on the longines half engaged at 10:39? Come ooooon!!!!
That’s me all over pal! Why I don’t like date complications
Liked the video, as always, and yes, I DID have an “Operation” game-it came out back in the 1960’s, when I was the right age for it!!😂😂
Talking of watch mistakes - What do you think of Seiko watch mods? CS Watches seem to produce some nice ones - I'm rather tempted by one or 3 of them. Thoughts Mad Watch Gang????
Don't be hatin' on wood Russel! Wood and stone were the first materials cavemen used to make their watches (including movements!) and they served them well if you look how far humanity went from living in caves and banging rocks together.
So, I wonder…what if a TH-cam watch collector had a watch they designed…should we take a chance on it? I enjoyed the video, as always!
It’s coming!!!!!!!!
Hey dude; you forgot the most important factor! Did the Mad Watch Collector approve it on the Mad Watch Collector channel?!
Excellent masterclass in what watches are all about for us. Thanks Russell 👍. I've been away from your channel for a while due to other commitments and the fact that I've literally had no spare money to start my watch journey. But things might be changing a little. You recommended the Seagull 1963 as a good starter. Looking at the Seiko 5 series they're not as good value as they used to be. The next step as a retirement present to myself might be a Squale or a Sinn 😊
more than 1 complication is a waste, I'll take a date window and that's all I really need, 3-4 complications, the manufacturer is just jacking themselves off to their own expertise and I'm not paying for that- its just a watch for God's sakes, it isn't going to solve world hunger.
Dear valuable mad friend
I have been following you for a long time. I wish you revew for us the great Italian made watch Venezianico. They did great last year. I insist on having your unbiased revew as always. Many thanks
With great love and appreciation .
Hapy new year to you and your beloved family, including the newcomer
Nizar
Does the second hand match to the second markers on the dial? Also, for dive watches (and others) does the bezel top position match the 12 o'clock position on the dial? These details may not be a way that you can establish that you have a good quality watch but conversely, they can tell you that you don't!
The most important thing is the last thing 👊👊👊
100%
Seiko must remember its customer base.
The new seiko 5 sort if miss the mark on water resistance.
At least Marc from islander put in the grocery list of desirable traits on his products.
Quality control is king. The movements must be A1 once tested and put to market.
Lume with Seiko is landmark. I am ok with acrylic, but sapphire belongs on a higher bracket product.
1. Swiss made
2. Made in Japan
3. Made in Russia
4. Doesn’t try to be generic dime a dozen. When you see it you can instantly know the brand
I love these types of video. Educational for sure. ❤❤❤. What do you think of a seiko SRPE91? on the fence with this one.
Hey bud, i am looking to buy a proper watch for work. I drive trucks, so i was thinking to get me a gorgeous Christopher Ward trident pro 600 on the # sporty strap. What's tour take on that piece?
*you’re ☝️😌
Great video, great channel. Subscribed within the first 2 minutes. Keep it up, mate!
Thank you my friend and for the correction
Ohhh that Squale in the intro....... 2. is why I really love Zelos and the comment on wooden watches lol brilliant!
As for the sweep or high beat; I own both and over the years I have found the lower beat last longer and need very little service. I would go Seiko before Omega as an example. It’s the ego person that just has to have a Rolex, Petek etc.
I’m glad you didn’t discuss power reserve. I think it’s the most overhyped characteristic of a watch. I mean, if it’s a daily it’ll never run out of power. If it’s a “sometimes” all that needs to be done is set and shake.
For my money, you have already shown me the best watch. I don’t know how I made it to the age of 56 without buying a Casio G Shock, but bought a DW 5600 a year ago based on one of your videos. I barely take it off my wrist. I guess you need something a little sportier on occasion, but this watch handles 90% of my timekeeping needs
You are 56 so your eyes are old can you see everything on this small watch clearly?
I hated that on every Seiko I could see free space between the lugs and bracelet. That has put me off of buying a seiko so I dont own one.
Oh but my friend! The world changes when you put it on a nato or rubber!!!
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR I really like a watch on a steel bracelet though
Great video mate 😊👍
For new watch enthusiasts. Quartz watches are not to be sneezed at. They are cheaper to buy and also cheaper to maintain. Also, don’t buy watches straight off the internet without trying them on first.
It's a good video, but 10 points and not a mention of accuracy, battery life, solar, atomic radio sync, or even Bluetooth time sync... or legibility! What you did was a "how to buy jewellery" list, not how to buy an watch that tells the time! I guess if it's just jewellery you don't need to worry about servicing costs either? 😂
Hi, can you review the casio W735h, it's a great watch for the money.
Wife's take on the watch is VERY important.
It had to be said.
100% after or before you buy ?
She will like it until you actually buy the thing... then it will be your worst buy. LOL.
Well for me it's Quartz only because of it's practicality.
Buddy, thank you. This is stellar content for those entering the hobby. I got onboard just over a year ago (and subscribed swiftly to MWC), and this is precisely the kind of enlightening dialogue I craved at the time (no pun intended). This, I'm certain, will be a succinct guide for folks in my former, albeit recent, shoes. Spot on agree with your assessments, insight and conclusions. But! What's the wife's opinion?!? We'd all benefit, I'm convinced, from her assertions as well...?
The cherry on top is the whole cake, some very questionable watches make me happy because of the story they tell.
At 66 years looking for legibility and comfort. So for me straps on Pilots or Field tickers do it best.
Please stop that dynamic preasure myth when it comes to water depth. It has been proven many times to be nearly neglectable. Other than that very good points and a great video. Thanks!
It’s happened to me with 2 watches 50 atm and below. After a swim both steamed up! No steam without fire or water my friend. It’s no myth
Watch and learn #6 by Marc from Long Island Watch has great information on that subject. From around 18:30 minutes onwards. It is a myth. I agree with you however that I would not go swimming with a 50m watch.
Number 11, the scariest, most definitive test. What the wife thinks…
That’s a seperate show!
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR 😂
What's wrong with your date function on the Longines at 10:40? The watch says 2:51-ish yet the date appears to be changing. It seems to be operating properly in all the rest of the shots.
YEEESSSS!!!!
Sweet Sewor glimpse! The Patek Philippe of China they say.