I purchased the Seiko just last week. This is my first automatic watch. Your videos have been very helpful for a novice, like myself, to learn more about the brands and options available. Thanks!
@@ballstoeveryone I like it so far. The size is good ... not too big and not too small. The numbers are very easy to read and the lume is bright enough to read in the dark, although it does fade with time. The day and date is a good size and is located exactly where you want them to be. I purchased the blue dial and really like how the light plays with this color. Resizing the bracelet was easy and there are two micro-adjustments to help. I have noticed a slight squeaking on the bracelet, so I'm not sure if that will go away on its own or not yet. I like that I have options for other straps in the future ... and Teddy's site has a good selection that I am eyeing. It feels comfortable on the wrist but it is slightly heavier than the old Citizen watch I had been wearing for many years. I actually prefer that as it feels like it has more substance and the weight, to me, makes if feel more valuable than my old watch. Mine does run a little fast and ends up a minute or so ahead in a couple of days. Resetting the time is easy enough, especially with the hacking available. Overall, I am please with it so far.
@@MWall711 Seems like you're enjoying the watch a lot 😊. Thanks for taking the time to reply. Is the movement too loud? I mean I have an orient which ticks a bit too loud for my taste. Does the Seiko seem loud to you? Also do you think it would go well with a leather strap?
@@ballstoeveryone I think a leather strap would look great and it is on my list to try at some point. I don't hear the movement at all ... but my wife says my hearing is questionable, so I'm not likely the best to determine the sound quality. ;)
@@MWall711 Hello.. I am tied between Seiko sports SKX series (SRPD55K1) and Seiko field series (SRPG27K1). I will appreciate your help to finalize and close in on one, thanks. :-)
Still I'd rather save up for a Hamilton , the 80hr powerreserve is just such a luxery. Can put the watch down on Friday evening and it'll still be running on monday morning !! Also amazingly accurate so no need to set the time or wind it up. A perfect pick up and go mechanical watch.
Certainly the main elephant in the room here when looking at these as mentioned at the end. The power reserve is a game changer. The new alpinist models with the 6R35 are also right there but hard to beat Hamilton for the money.
@@TeddyBaldassarre yeah the 6r35 is a very solid movement but just a bit to expensive for my liking. I'd rather get a eta C07.111 or eta A31.L01 powered watch for that kindoff money.
Completely agree, the Hamilton is a better watch & looks great too. I owned the Ion coated version of the Bulova hack watch & I wasn't impressed, it felt somehow cheap & not worth the £289.00 price tag. Movement not that accurate either running at +17 seconds a day
Don't really need to save up much. Lightly used Khakis can easily be found under $300. I bought my khaki automatic from the original purchaser who only wore it a few times for $275
I still value function at least as much as aesthetics. I've been a dive watch fan for a long time but like most fans I never use the dive bezel. I go for dive watches larger than 40mm but even my Seiko with 41mm case only has a 31mm dial. Most field watches, even relatively small ones, can still have a 31mm dial. So if you are interested in the function of the watch, how easy the dial is to read, a field watch or flieger an easily be better than a dive watch. The Seiko 40mm and 42mm on bracelet may very well be the perfect configuration for me
Just got my SRPG27 and chucked it on a black MN strap, great value for money. When mod parts become more readily available I'll switch in a slim case back (minus the window) and some sapphire glass.
If I was standing at the counter right now ready to part with some money, I believe I’d pick the Bulova mainly due to styling. If I’m 90 ft down in the water, I’m most likely not coming back up. I’ve had lensatic compasses that used tritium, and I currently use tritium night sights on some pistols. They are very nice, but the tritium wears out after 12 years. If they’ll swap out your watch’s tritium every 12 years you’ll be alright. Back in the 90s I was active duty Marines. Many of us, me included, wore Timex Ironman watches as our field watches. They weren’t tactical or anything cool, but they were very robust. I still have mine and it has been working since 1992.
I got the Seiko because despite its funky numerals it is the only affordable watch that has that unmistakable retro, post-war field watch design that I am into (and proper water resistance too). I only wish its size and weight were equally vintage; on my pretty average 175 mm wrist I'd definitely want it 2 mm smaller.
I have to continue to commend the production value of these videos. The watch shots are some of the best in the business, including what the major companies with much larger budgets do. The background materials used are innovative and always accent the watches.
For the price points and keeping in line with modern ideas of what a field watch really needs is either marathon GP quartz, a solar watch from Citizen or Seiko, or save up again for an alpanist or higher accuracy automatic. Yes for a normal person being off by 15-30 seconds a day isn't an issue, for military purposes that is life or death in some circles. Hence why most tactical individuals lean towards G-Shocks. I would rather a watch i can adjust once month and keep batteries around (or simply have a solar watch) then to adjust a watch literally everyday when I have many other things on my plate. I get watch enthusiasts prefer mechanical but keep those mechanical and automatics out unless it's closer to +or-10 secs a day if you are doing military ops. I love my mechanicals and automatics, but they aren't what I wear to the field.
Dang it! - 1 month ago I've got myself SNK809K1 - I have no idea that Seiko made new series of watches that replace mine :D But I'm happy with mine - it's my first smaller watch(I only had Casio Duro before), it's very fun and refreshing to wear after 44 mm beast, accurate, works for about 40 hours and bracelet doesn't pull my hair out - perfect gateway into mechanical watchmaking for what I've paid(around 90 USD converting from PLN). I'd love one day to get my hands on those hybrid high frequency quartz watches like Bulova Lunar Pilot - precision of quartz + sweeping second feels like perfect combo for me :)
I have learned (contrary to at least my intuition) that how a watch wears can be oddly unrelated to size (and even weight). Sometimes smaller watches are ~'top heavy' and tug and hurt to wear, and other sometimes huge watches (like a +50mm width world-time-chronograph) are completely comfortable and a pure delight to wear. Very puzzling. The shape and balance(?) seem to be much more important than just a size and weight measure.
@@onoff5604 Agree. Even with my slender wrist I love wearing G-Shocks. Not just the classic square, but the kinda gargantuan like Gravitymaster. In the end, you wear what you like...
You can get the Seiko for about 200 right now. I saw it in the Metal and decided to get it over a couple SRPJ models. The numerals looked awesome in person and gave the dial a level of detail that I found prettier than I expected.
It’s almost impossible to beat their value for money for the field watch. It has quite literally everything you’d want in a field watch. Great size at 39mm too.
That Bulova is absolutely a gem. I have it, and once the strap is changed, you'll never want to take it off. Getting from Teddy would only make it that much more special. Great video.
I recently bought my first field watch, the Citizen Chandler. It is a tidy 37mm sized case 9mm thick and growing on me. Wearing it often, can hardly take it off. I'm loving the set it and forget it eco-drive quartz movement. I just think these three in the review are all winners, perhaps a bit more refined in the dials and straps than my Citizen. Very useful watches.
I believe that Teddy is mistaken regarding the Bulova. I purchased one of these from his site. The lug width is actually 18mm and not 20 mm. The lug width is about the only negative aspect of this watch. The strap is of acceptable quality, but it is basically useless for someone with smaller wrists.....so replacing an 18 mm strap can be difficult. Otherwise, I love this watch. It is basically my everyday watch. I own the Hamilton Khaki Automatic and two Khaki Mechnicals with different dials. By far, the Bulova HACK is the most faithful rendition of a field watch. The symmetry, size and spacing of the numerals is perfect.The greenish hue of the lume is much more attractive than the orange faux lume of the Khaki mechanical. The lack of a date window is also major plus as far as I am concerned ( unlike the Khaki Automatic).The accuracy of the watch is just fine (+6sec/d).
Look at the victorinox, if you don’t mind a quartz movement. The infantry has 100 m water resistance sapphire crystal 40mm lug width. They also make in an automatic movement, but at a higher cost.
The Timex Expedition North watches with stainless steel, sapphire Crystal, 100 meters of water resistance and screw down crown are a very good field watch option as well!
I’m thinking if I should go for the Seiko Field Watch or save up and opt for a Hamilton Khaki Field instead. The Hammy is twice the price of the Seiko but it does have a 80h of power reserve and a Sapphire Crystal. Also its thinner as well. But Seiko is Seiko & it’s probably gonna drop in price significantly. I do like having a Day and Date function too. I would love a comparison video between these two, Teddy!
Laco Aachen would be my choice for a around $400. Heritage of being one of the 5 original makers, 50m wr and 39 or 42 mm case size. The only compromise is the movement in this watch.
If you're stuck in a hospital bed believe me the tritium is worth its weight in gold. That alone had me shopping for a watch that would work all night after I got out of the hospital. Ended up being an anidig Gshock with a backlight.
Been getting into watches recently. I'm worried I found your channel Teddy, this is going to get expensive the more I learn 😂 Right now I have a soft spot for vintage looking field watches and those dirty dozen looking kind of watches. Love your channel buddy
One thing to ask when buying one of these is if the watch has a screw-down or pull out crown. If it has a pull out, the watch's water resistance may mean nothing. Also, mineral crystal on a military watch is not good due to its vulnerability to scratching and damage. There are better watches out there with better features and are competitively priced.
Teddy, I love the Cleveland connection. I am a trombone player and that makes Cleveland special already. Also, I note that Cleveland is perhaps the first American city in the Eastern time zone. And then you throw in The Music Man... I suspect that Ball watches could be as authentically American as Hamilton. And I purchased my entry Hamilton Khaki as my first watch in decades in 2021.
I love the looks of the Bulova, but not the 30m of water resistance. I have been thinking about picking up the Seiko. Although I am torn on holding out for a Hamilton. I really like the tritium on the Marathon, but the small size and 30m of water resistance make it a nonstarter for me.
Very nice video, I was glad to see you began with the military context. This is what I think a field watch is. As such, a flat crystal is a no go on a field watch. A flat crystal will reflect light and give away your position in a tactical situation. We used to wear velcro nylon bands that covered the watch face. Not great as every time you wanted to check the time, you had to peel the velcro back, making a lot of noise. I also agree about the water resistance. Not so much about water, although that risk is real, but to keep out dust and dirt. In my experience anything less than a 100M water resistance will allow all sorts of crud into the watch. Pilot watches traditionally have low water resistance which makes them vulnerable in field conditions. Don't ask me how I know that, LOL!
There are companies that make pilot watches with 200m of water resistance too. (althouth not in the price range of the watches of this video. But in any mil envirement, i personally would opt for a G-shock. I wore a non g-shock casio that surprisigly survived a lot more than it's officially only 50m water resistance rating would suggest. It made it through 5 years of engineering shcool and 10 months of mil service, but the seals gave up shortly afterwards.)
Tritium has a 10 year expectancy. So as you approach that time expect the brightness to dim. It’s used in firearm night sights and I have a few that at 12 years emit no detectable brightness. Just something to consider.
Good comparison of the features of each of these field watches. I have been curious about the Bulova Hack, but I am just not sure if I will get one. Honestly, the Islander field watch offers better value for dollar than any of these three. Sapphire crystals on both the front and the exhibition back, screw-down crown and case back, 100m water resistance, and a Seiko NH36 movement, all for $189. The only thing it doesn't match is the tritium in the Marathon. I am much more interested in the Bulova Breton and would love to see a review of that.
@Dennis H Islander is the microbrand started a couple years ago by Marc at Long Island Watches. He offers great value; all his watches come with sapphire crystals, screw-down crowns, at least 100m water resistance (all divers have 200m), and a Seiko NH series movement (except for one model which has a Miyota 9000 series hi-beat movement). Here is a link to the Islander watches: longislandwatch.com/islander-watches/. I have several other models besides the field watch, including one of the dress watches with the Miyota movement. I am familiar with Vaer watches and have been looking at the A5 Field Black USA Automatic. I am considering ordering while I can.
The Marathon is a great hiking/camping watch. The tough case and crystal will handle being knocked around, and the always-on luminescence comes in handy at night.
Great video, Teddy. I'm a Bulova enthusiast myself, so the information you give here is greatly appreciated. I just discovered your channel and I can't stop watching. Congrats, amigo.
When I was still in the military I wore a Citizen BM8180-03E. Basic and kinda plain, but it was exactly what I needed. Although in hindsight something with a count bezel would have been useful.
I can attest for the consultations. I had two yesterday with Stephen and he opened my eyes to Laco and am excitedly waiting for the watch to arrive now.
@@Tappat lovely. I definitely need a day date for my daily, but I let it pass on the Laco I have for traditional reasons but also because it’s a watch I’ll only wear on special occasions and that’s only a few hours at a time.
My Bulova Hack VWI arrived today and I love it. It's also the closest of the three to the Hamilton in styling if that's what you're looking for on a budget.
I just bought a snk807 last night which is a cheap watch but it's a classic and I like the type B dial. I feel like there needs to be more type B dials. I wanted a Laco but being young I wanted to be financially responsible.
All watches to me NEED to be usable in all conditions... i work in mine, as a construction worker... i take them off for crazy stuff, but, if i had anything too fancy, it would be junk in months... i dont think i’m alone here, and it seems like thats why field watchs seem to be the top sellers...
I’m trying to find a good winter watch, so I’m looking for something in black definitely under 300. I really can’t decide between a field watch and a pilot watch. The pilot watch is more unique but there seem to be way more selection of field watches at better prices. Any suggestions?
Hamilton is THE classic field watch company. Casio G-SHOCK is the more contemporary field watch for the modern soldier, police officer or fire fighter.
I got myself an insane value MWC G10 - a Swiss company issuing watches to real military forces and law-enforcement units over the globe, absolute spec monster with Ronda 10 year on battery life, 300m WR, screw-down crown, domed internal AR sapphire crystal, titanium case and dual tritium + luminova lume. It even has screw down pins. Comes on nato strap. There is nothing in my view that would beat this as an entry level field watch.
How would you rate Bertucci compared to these three? The A-2T Super Classic has sapphire crystal and 200 M water resistant. Although it’s a quartz, it has a lithium battery rated with a 10 year life.
I have a Christopher Ward Sandhurst 1 which is an official homage to the venerable Smits W10. An awesome watch approved by the British Department of Defense and with COSC certified movement. All that for $830. Not bad for an entry level field watch.
I got my new Hamilton KFM for $283, and can find them for $340ish now from some gray market dealers. But the Seiko in this vid has better water resistance.
Out of the three, I'm most drawn to Bulova's, however the 30m WR is a bit disappointing. Personally, I'd be more likely to save up a little extra and go for one from CWC or Hamilton.
I looked at the bulova yesterday in h samuel in the UK the quartz version for £134.00 I loved it thought it reminded me of the hamilton kaki field watch
Excellent comparison video, very enjoyable to watch and quite informative. I like the style and dial of the Bulova best. After researching field watches, and having never owned one and not knowing if I would like to wear one or not, I chose a 40mm Timex Expedition Scout for my first field watch. I paid $34, which is about 10% of the cost of one of these three "affordable" field watches. I am very happy with it and it is very comfortable to wear and attractive. That Timex is my definition of affordable.
Hi Teddy , I have a couple of Field Watches my favourites being the Hamilton Khaki and the CWC Fatman, I'm English and live in England as well do you ship to the UK ?
Best field watch is the citizen ( ray mears )eco drive, titanium, bgw-9 amazing blue lume that lasts all night, extra thick sapphire with ar on the inside, backside is out of 1 piece of titanium since you never have to open this, insane good legability. Super accurate. It beats everything on this list easy. (350 euro, 450 if you want it with amazing titanium bracelet).
Mechanical watches are inaccurate. Thats why i have quartz watches as well... i have both worlds. Mechanical they survive long but inaccurate. Quartz are accurate but at the mercy of battery. Quartz watch can survive decades as well.
I keep looking for the perfect field watch. These are not it. For the money an Islander comes closer. For more money there are lots of good choices and I don't think one should rule out quartz watches given the practical purpose of a field watch.( Certainly the Bulova is not what the army would issue to its troops today. ) Everyone seems to agree the Hamilton is the standard by which to judge. While I haven't seen one in person, it seems to me there are micro brand options with better specs for similar money, though I know for many , the heritage of the brand is an appeal. The Serica www seems interesting as is the SWC Bunker. Love your review Teddy. Someday I'm going to buy a watch from you
I was issued one, green plastic didn't know who made it, they were expendable. Funny thing on the back of the watch it said the lumen could be hazardous to you health.
Curious about the transition of the crown of the Seiko 5 from 4 o clock position to the 3 o clock position, isn't the 4 o clock crown one of the five attributes of the Seiko 5?
Yep. “The Seiko 5 got its name from the five key features which define it: Automatic winding, day and date displayed in a single window, water resistance, a recessed crown at four o’clock, and a durable case and bracelet.”
Hm Seiko is not expensive as your watches here, so why is the field watch missing as entry? And why are they only 30m WR? a good field watch should have minimum of 5bar better is 10. I will search on for my "perfect" one
For me, the Seiko is the far superior watch... 100 meters water resistance... 39mm diameter... Day/Date function... And looks as good as the other two watches.
That can be dangerous . A year or so ago, the Timex was my daily wear. I decided I wanted another watch that was a little nicer. Six watches, each a little more expensive later, I'm watching watch videos on a Tuesday night.
I purchased the Seiko just last week. This is my first automatic watch. Your videos have been very helpful for a novice, like myself, to learn more about the brands and options available. Thanks!
How are you finding the watch?
@@ballstoeveryone I like it so far. The size is good ... not too big and not too small. The numbers are very easy to read and the lume is bright enough to read in the dark, although it does fade with time. The day and date is a good size and is located exactly where you want them to be. I purchased the blue dial and really like how the light plays with this color. Resizing the bracelet was easy and there are two micro-adjustments to help. I have noticed a slight squeaking on the bracelet, so I'm not sure if that will go away on its own or not yet. I like that I have options for other straps in the future ... and Teddy's site has a good selection that I am eyeing. It feels comfortable on the wrist but it is slightly heavier than the old Citizen watch I had been wearing for many years. I actually prefer that as it feels like it has more substance and the weight, to me, makes if feel more valuable than my old watch. Mine does run a little fast and ends up a minute or so ahead in a couple of days. Resetting the time is easy enough, especially with the hacking available. Overall, I am please with it so far.
@@MWall711 Seems like you're enjoying the watch a lot 😊. Thanks for taking the time to reply. Is the movement too loud? I mean I have an orient which ticks a bit too loud for my taste. Does the Seiko seem loud to you? Also do you think it would go well with a leather strap?
@@ballstoeveryone I think a leather strap would look great and it is on my list to try at some point. I don't hear the movement at all ... but my wife says my hearing is questionable, so I'm not likely the best to determine the sound quality. ;)
@@MWall711 Hello.. I am tied between Seiko sports SKX series (SRPD55K1) and Seiko field series (SRPG27K1). I will appreciate your help to finalize and close in on one, thanks. :-)
I swear this guy can read your mind.
This is exactly the comparison I've been wanting to look up for the last week and it pops up just 2 hours ago!
I would go for the Seiko SRPG27, but I don't think there's a wrong answer.
Great video!
Man.....
If that Bulova had more water resistance, I don't think I could pass it up. That look is perfect!
If the Bulova had 100m WR, I'd buy it right now! It nails the field watch aesthetic better than most of them do.
I assure you the WR is underated I have taken mine to swim various times with no ill effects
Still I'd rather save up for a Hamilton , the 80hr powerreserve is just such a luxery. Can put the watch down on Friday evening and it'll still be running on monday morning !! Also amazingly accurate so no need to set the time or wind it up. A perfect pick up and go mechanical watch.
Certainly the main elephant in the room here when looking at these as mentioned at the end. The power reserve is a game changer. The new alpinist models with the 6R35 are also right there but hard to beat Hamilton for the money.
@@TeddyBaldassarre yeah the 6r35 is a very solid movement but just a bit to expensive for my liking. I'd rather get a eta C07.111 or eta A31.L01 powered watch for that kindoff money.
Completely agree, the Hamilton is a better watch & looks great too. I owned the Ion coated version of the Bulova hack watch & I wasn't impressed, it felt somehow cheap & not worth the £289.00 price tag. Movement not that accurate either running at +17 seconds a day
Hamilton watch hard to beat but the Seiko Alpinist just got the edge on looks.👌
Don't really need to save up much. Lightly used Khakis can easily be found under $300. I bought my khaki automatic from the original purchaser who only wore it a few times for $275
I still value function at least as much as aesthetics. I've been a dive watch fan for a long time but like most fans I never use the dive bezel. I go for dive watches larger than 40mm but even my Seiko with 41mm case only has a 31mm dial. Most field watches, even relatively small ones, can still have a 31mm dial. So if you are interested in the function of the watch, how easy the dial is to read, a field watch or flieger an easily be better than a dive watch. The Seiko 40mm and 42mm on bracelet may very well be the perfect configuration for me
I have a Long Island field watch. Has great lume, think it was 40mm ? and an NH35 for $199
Those Islanders are a steal
And sapphire crystal!
Marc is listening to his customer and is also trying to do what Seiko is not doing.
Just got my SRPG27 and chucked it on a black MN strap, great value for money.
When mod parts become more readily available I'll switch in a slim case back (minus the window) and some sapphire glass.
If I was standing at the counter right now ready to part with some money, I believe I’d pick the Bulova mainly due to styling. If I’m 90 ft down in the water, I’m most likely not coming back up. I’ve had lensatic compasses that used tritium, and I currently use tritium night sights on some pistols. They are very nice, but the tritium wears out after 12 years. If they’ll swap out your watch’s tritium every 12 years you’ll be alright. Back in the 90s I was active duty Marines. Many of us, me included, wore Timex Ironman watches as our field watches. They weren’t tactical or anything cool, but they were very robust. I still have mine and it has been working since 1992.
I got the Seiko because despite its funky numerals it is the only affordable watch that has that unmistakable retro, post-war field watch design that I am into (and proper water resistance too). I only wish its size and weight were equally vintage; on my pretty average 175 mm wrist I'd definitely want it 2 mm smaller.
Which model did you get
@@MrRahimhosein Seiko SRPG27 - now available in much more reasonable 36mm.
I have to continue to commend the production value of these videos. The watch shots are some of the best in the business, including what the major companies with much larger budgets do. The background materials used are innovative and always accent the watches.
Can't agree more 👏
For the price points and keeping in line with modern ideas of what a field watch really needs is either marathon GP quartz, a solar watch from Citizen or Seiko, or save up again for an alpanist or higher accuracy automatic. Yes for a normal person being off by 15-30 seconds a day isn't an issue, for military purposes that is life or death in some circles. Hence why most tactical individuals lean towards G-Shocks. I would rather a watch i can adjust once month and keep batteries around (or simply have a solar watch) then to adjust a watch literally everyday when I have many other things on my plate. I get watch enthusiasts prefer mechanical but keep those mechanical and automatics out unless it's closer to +or-10 secs a day if you are doing military ops. I love my mechanicals and automatics, but they aren't what I wear to the field.
👏
Dang it! - 1 month ago I've got myself SNK809K1 - I have no idea that Seiko made new series of watches that replace mine :D But I'm happy with mine - it's my first smaller watch(I only had Casio Duro before), it's very fun and refreshing to wear after 44 mm beast, accurate, works for about 40 hours and bracelet doesn't pull my hair out - perfect gateway into mechanical watchmaking for what I've paid(around 90 USD converting from PLN). I'd love one day to get my hands on those hybrid high frequency quartz watches like Bulova Lunar Pilot - precision of quartz + sweeping second feels like perfect combo for me :)
For my slender 6 inch (15.3 cm) wrist, that Marathon is the best option among those three...
I have learned (contrary to at least my intuition) that how a watch wears can be oddly unrelated to size (and even weight). Sometimes smaller watches are ~'top heavy' and tug and hurt to wear, and other sometimes huge watches (like a +50mm width world-time-chronograph) are completely comfortable and a pure delight to wear. Very puzzling. The shape and balance(?) seem to be much more important than just a size and weight measure.
@@onoff5604 Agree. Even with my slender wrist I love wearing G-Shocks. Not just the classic square, but the kinda gargantuan like Gravitymaster. In the end, you wear what you like...
If I had to get one of these three, I'd probably go for the Seiko.
The lack of sapphire crystal rules it out for me.
id get the seiko as well. good movement, better water resistance.
You can get the Seiko for about 200 right now. I saw it in the Metal and decided to get it over a couple SRPJ models. The numerals looked awesome in person and gave the dial a level of detail that I found prettier than I expected.
Spec-wise, few watches are going to beat the Islander field watches at a
It’s almost impossible to beat their value for money for the field watch. It has quite literally everything you’d want in a field watch. Great size at 39mm too.
I wish they had them in stock
Boldr supply venture watch would have been a perfect fourth watch in this video
That Bulova is absolutely a gem. I have it, and once the strap is changed, you'll never want to take it off. Getting from Teddy would only make it that much more special. Great video.
Agreed, I own the Bulova as well (and the Marathon ; ) ). Could wear it every day for the rest of my life.
I recently bought my first field watch, the Citizen Chandler. It is a tidy 37mm sized case 9mm thick and growing on me. Wearing it often, can hardly take it off. I'm loving the set it and forget it eco-drive quartz movement. I just think these three in the review are all winners, perhaps a bit more refined in the dials and straps than my Citizen. Very useful watches.
I believe that Teddy is mistaken regarding the Bulova. I purchased one of these from his site. The lug width is actually 18mm and not 20 mm. The lug width is about the only negative aspect of this watch. The strap is of acceptable quality, but it is basically useless for someone with smaller wrists.....so replacing an 18 mm strap can be difficult. Otherwise, I love this watch. It is basically my everyday watch. I own the Hamilton Khaki Automatic and two Khaki Mechnicals with different dials. By far, the Bulova HACK is the most faithful rendition of a field watch. The symmetry, size and spacing of the numerals is perfect.The greenish hue of the lume is much more attractive than the orange faux lume of the Khaki mechanical. The lack of a date window is also major plus as far as I am concerned ( unlike the Khaki Automatic).The accuracy of the watch is just fine (+6sec/d).
I’m in the US Army, would love to rock the Bulova Hack as a daily driver but that mineral crystal and 30m water resistance really kills it for me.
My favorite looking of the three by far but agreed on the water resistance.
30M water resistance is pretty sad. I want a field watch that will survive any conditions I take it into!
Orient isn't a bad one to look at, their Defender and pilot watches are durable and offer more than the Bulova
Look at the victorinox, if you don’t mind a quartz movement. The infantry has 100 m water resistance sapphire crystal 40mm lug width. They also make in an automatic movement, but at a higher cost.
That was my rationale when I nearly purchased a CWC Mellor. Stunning watch but only 5 bar...
The Timex Expedition North watches with stainless steel, sapphire Crystal, 100 meters of water resistance and screw down crown are a very good field watch option as well!
All are stunning stunning options! I really wish that new Seiko 5 came with a type-b dial.
I’m thinking if I should go for the Seiko Field Watch or save up and opt for a Hamilton Khaki Field instead. The Hammy is twice the price of the Seiko but it does have a 80h of power reserve and a Sapphire Crystal. Also its thinner as well. But Seiko is Seiko & it’s probably gonna drop in price significantly. I do like having a Day and Date function too. I would love a comparison video between these two, Teddy!
Laco Aachen would be my choice for a around $400. Heritage of being one of the 5 original makers, 50m wr and 39 or 42 mm case size. The only compromise is the movement in this watch.
Bulova !... the hack model is a winner. True military history and dimensions. A lot of watch for the $$
If you're stuck in a hospital bed believe me the tritium is worth its weight in gold. That alone had me shopping for a watch that would work all night after I got out of the hospital. Ended up being an anidig Gshock with a backlight.
Been getting into watches recently. I'm glad I found your channel Teddy.
Glad you were able to find the channel! Thanks for watching!
Been getting into watches recently. I'm worried I found your channel Teddy, this is going to get expensive the more I learn 😂
Right now I have a soft spot for vintage looking field watches and those dirty dozen looking kind of watches. Love your channel buddy
@@TeddyBaldassarre can u tell Seiko snkp17k1 model is original or not, as it has the crown at 3. Thank u
@@iamsathya that's where it should be. Many Seiko models have the crown on 3 😉
Bulova definitely. I live in the woods and the tritium illumination would suit me well.
I purchased the Seiko just last week. I’m in Love 😍! It’s my first field watch. I can feel a new addiction forming 😅
One thing to ask when buying one of these is if the watch has a screw-down or pull out crown. If it has a pull out, the watch's water resistance may mean nothing. Also, mineral crystal on a military watch is not good due to its vulnerability to scratching and damage. There are better watches out there with better features and are competitively priced.
Teddy, I love the Cleveland connection. I am a trombone player and that makes Cleveland special already. Also, I note that Cleveland is perhaps the first American city in the Eastern time zone. And then you throw in The Music Man... I suspect that Ball watches could be as authentically American as Hamilton. And I purchased my entry Hamilton Khaki as my first watch in decades in 2021.
Marathon looks impressive. Very different from the rest, I like it. 30m WR is a failure though..
Tritium also has a life expectancy of about 10 years. After that time, the "lume" is gone. That's too bad.
@@marsoelflaco5722 That is not how it works, it has a half-time of 12 years so after that it will be 50% as bright as it used to be.
I love the looks of the Bulova, but not the 30m of water resistance. I have been thinking about picking up the Seiko. Although I am torn on holding out for a Hamilton. I really like the tritium on the Marathon, but the small size and 30m of water resistance make it a nonstarter for me.
Hold out for the Hamilton, much better watch or buy one pre owned!
Very nice video, I was glad to see you began with the military context. This is what I think a field watch is. As such, a flat crystal is a no go on a field watch. A flat crystal will reflect light and give away your position in a tactical situation. We used to wear velcro nylon bands that covered the watch face. Not great as every time you wanted to check the time, you had to peel the velcro back, making a lot of noise. I also agree about the water resistance. Not so much about water, although that risk is real, but to keep out dust and dirt. In my experience anything less than a 100M water resistance will allow all sorts of crud into the watch. Pilot watches traditionally have low water resistance which makes them vulnerable in field conditions. Don't ask me how I know that, LOL!
There are companies that make pilot watches with 200m of water resistance too. (althouth not in the price range of the watches of this video. But in any mil envirement, i personally would opt for a G-shock. I wore a non g-shock casio that surprisigly survived a lot more than it's officially only 50m water resistance rating would suggest. It made it through 5 years of engineering shcool and 10 months of mil service, but the seals gave up shortly afterwards.)
Tritium has a 10 year expectancy. So as you approach that time expect the brightness to dim. It’s used in firearm night sights and I have a few that at 12 years emit no detectable brightness. Just something to consider.
I have the Bulova VWI (wearing it now). Love it. Perfect size, classic look.
Good comparison of the features of each of these field watches. I have been curious about the Bulova Hack, but I am just not sure if I will get one. Honestly, the Islander field watch offers better value for dollar than any of these three. Sapphire crystals on both the front and the exhibition back, screw-down crown and case back, 100m water resistance, and a Seiko NH36 movement, all for $189. The only thing it doesn't match is the tritium in the Marathon. I am much more interested in the Bulova Breton and would love to see a review of that.
Haven't heard of Islander. I have been eyeing a Vear however. A micro- brand in the US.
@Dennis H Islander is the microbrand started a couple years ago by Marc at Long Island Watches. He offers great value; all his watches come with sapphire crystals, screw-down crowns, at least 100m water resistance (all divers have 200m), and a Seiko NH series movement (except for one model which has a Miyota 9000 series hi-beat movement). Here is a link to the Islander watches: longislandwatch.com/islander-watches/.
I have several other models besides the field watch, including one of the dress watches with the Miyota movement.
I am familiar with Vaer watches and have been looking at the A5 Field Black USA Automatic. I am considering ordering while I can.
The Marathon is a great hiking/camping watch. The tough case and crystal will handle being knocked around, and the always-on luminescence comes in handy at night.
Great video, Teddy. I'm a Bulova enthusiast myself, so the information you give here is greatly appreciated. I just discovered your channel and I can't stop watching. Congrats, amigo.
When I was still in the military I wore a Citizen BM8180-03E. Basic and kinda plain, but it was exactly what I needed. Although in hindsight something with a count bezel would have been useful.
I can attest for the consultations. I had two yesterday with Stephen and he opened my eyes to Laco and am excitedly waiting for the watch to arrive now.
What model did you end up choosing? I’m a huge Laco fan.
@@whatsstefon I ordered the Casablanca. Having a date is a must-have for me but the lume sold me!
@@Tappat lovely. I definitely need a day date for my daily, but I let it pass on the Laco I have for traditional reasons but also because it’s a watch I’ll only wear on special occasions and that’s only a few hours at a time.
@@whatsstefon Which model do you own? Looks aside, I am intrigued with Laco for its history.
Hi Teddy. Today, 2 years later, is the Timex Expedition North a good alternative? Automatic movement, titanium case, sapphire crystal, for $349.
Had a great conversation with one pf your experts yesterday ( thanks again Dan)!
My Bulova Hack VWI arrived today and I love it. It's also the closest of the three to the Hamilton in styling if that's what you're looking for on a budget.
I just bought a snk807 last night which is a cheap watch but it's a classic and I like the type B dial. I feel like there needs to be more type B dials. I wanted a Laco but being young I wanted to be financially responsible.
I just got an SNK809 as a birthday gift, I love it so far!
I have a Marathon Navigator no date and I really love it
Great episode!
I just got the Swiss Watch Company bunker. Best field watch by a mile. And they are regulated and mines running 15 seconds fast in one full week.
What about the Islander field watch?!
Exactly.
@karldelta ha ok wow there it is.
All watches to me NEED to be usable in all conditions... i work in mine, as a construction worker... i take them off for crazy stuff, but, if i had anything too fancy, it would be junk in months... i dont think i’m alone here, and it seems like thats why field watchs seem to be the top sellers...
Your channel is what I search for when I want to see any watch reviews or specs 👍🏼
I’m trying to find a good winter watch, so I’m looking for something in black definitely under 300. I really can’t decide between a field watch and a pilot watch. The pilot watch is more unique but there seem to be way more selection of field watches at better prices. Any suggestions?
Of these three, I’d pick the Bulova. But my first choice would be a Hamilton.
Lets not forget about Boldr. They are the ones who i think really own this segment
I bought a bulova hack for $220 recently priced drop to reasonable level since. Perhaps a decent buy.
Hamilton is THE classic field watch company. Casio G-SHOCK is the more contemporary field watch for the modern soldier, police officer or fire fighter.
I got myself an insane value MWC G10 - a Swiss company issuing watches to real military forces and law-enforcement units over the globe, absolute spec monster with Ronda 10 year on battery life, 300m WR, screw-down crown, domed internal AR sapphire crystal, titanium case and dual tritium + luminova lume. It even has screw down pins. Comes on nato strap. There is nothing in my view that would beat this as an entry level field watch.
I don’t know why…but I really like the Bulova. Maybe because I already have Seiko 5’s?… It just looks really good to me.
How would you rate Bertucci compared to these three? The A-2T Super Classic has sapphire crystal and 200 M water resistant. Although it’s a quartz, it has a lithium battery rated with a 10 year life.
I’ve got a larger wrist and if I get a field watch it will probably be the new 42mm size of the khaki field mechanical watch by Hamilton.
Of these 3, I like the Seiko 5 best.
I have a Christopher Ward Sandhurst 1 which is an official homage to the venerable Smits W10. An awesome watch approved by the British Department of Defense and with COSC certified movement. All that for $830. Not bad for an entry level field watch.
I took your advice after your video on the Hamilton khaki field auto. I bought one and I absolutely just it. Saving for an Oris now.
I just got a Hamilton Khaki in 42mm. I changed the strap and got a paded black leather strap with white stiching and also a green nato strap.
ooh lala that case of the marathon bronze powderish colour. beauty masterpiece.
I got my new Hamilton KFM for $283, and can find them for $340ish now from some gray market dealers. But the Seiko in this vid has better water resistance.
I bought hamilton khaki after watching teddy's review on it,purely satisfied with my decision..
Out of the three, I'm most drawn to Bulova's, however the 30m WR is a bit disappointing. Personally, I'd be more likely to save up a little extra and go for one from CWC or Hamilton.
CWC Mellor is stunning but only has 50m water resistance unfortunately. Hamilton pioneer has 100m but is much more expensive
My vote is for the Bulova. Great look.
Recently pickup up seiko SRPH29. Absolutely amazing for 200 bucks from Macy's on sale.
I just got my Hamilton Khaki field mechanical watch today.
Pretty awesome!
I looked at the bulova yesterday in h samuel in the UK the quartz version for £134.00 I loved it thought it reminded me of the hamilton kaki field watch
Excellent comparison video, very enjoyable to watch and quite informative. I like the style and dial of the Bulova best. After researching field watches, and having never owned one and not knowing if I would like to wear one or not, I chose a 40mm Timex Expedition Scout for my first field watch. I paid $34, which is about 10% of the cost of one of these three "affordable" field watches. I am very happy with it and it is very comfortable to wear and attractive. That Timex is my definition of affordable.
Timex, although cheap in cost, have always made some rugged pieces... indiglo is one of a kind too
Smaller pilot watches make for great field watches as well, in fact specs can be indistinguishable.
The laco Aachen b dial is a great example of that.
Hi Teddy , I have a couple of Field Watches my favourites being the Hamilton Khaki and the CWC Fatman, I'm English and live in England as well do you ship to the UK ?
Best field watch is the citizen ( ray mears )eco drive, titanium, bgw-9 amazing blue lume that lasts all night, extra thick sapphire with ar on the inside, backside is out of 1 piece of titanium since you never have to open this, insane good legability. Super accurate. It beats everything on this list easy. (350 euro, 450 if you want it with amazing titanium bracelet).
This and the Casio 5610.
I got the Mount Bell edition... can vouch, those Ti Citizens are the ultimate modern field watches. 200m wr too.
@@johandebondt5749 Even the ''ray mears'' is 300m wr ;].
Hey Teddy, I was wondering how important you feel accuracy is in mechanical watches. It'd be interesting to see a video going into that aspect.
Check out Teddy’s other channel. Recent video about “Biggest myths “ talks about accuracy expectations
Mechanical watches are inaccurate.
Thats why i have quartz watches as well... i have both worlds.
Mechanical they survive long but inaccurate. Quartz are accurate but at the mercy of battery. Quartz watch can survive decades as well.
Can you please review and let me know if zeppelin watches are good or not?
A Casio tough solar would kick all these asses
And a g-shock would kill the tough solar
I keep looking for the perfect field watch. These are not it. For the money an Islander comes closer. For more money there are lots of good choices and I don't think one should rule out quartz watches given the practical purpose of a field watch.( Certainly the Bulova is not what the army would issue to its troops today. ) Everyone seems to agree the Hamilton is the standard by which to judge. While I haven't seen one in person, it seems to me there are micro brand options with better specs for similar money, though I know for many , the heritage of the brand is an appeal. The Serica www seems interesting as is the SWC Bunker.
Love your review Teddy. Someday I'm going to buy a watch from you
I genuinely believe the Seiko looks the best of the 3. Gives me a Big Pilot -esque vibe.
I was issued one, green plastic didn't know who made it, they were expendable. Funny thing on the back of the watch it said the lumen could be hazardous to you health.
Nice review. I went with Bulova since it looks closer to A-11 and was on sale right now!
Curious about the transition of the crown of the Seiko 5 from 4 o clock position to the 3 o clock position, isn't the 4 o clock crown one of the five attributes of the Seiko 5?
Yep. “The Seiko 5 got its name from the five key features which define it: Automatic winding, day and date displayed in a single window, water resistance, a recessed crown at four o’clock, and a durable case and bracelet.”
SNZG13's (old Seiko 5) crown is also at 3 o clock...
@@jk8190 understood. I thought that the design rules were 4 o’clock
Hm Seiko is not expensive as your watches here, so why is the field watch missing as entry? And why are they only 30m WR? a good field watch should have minimum of 5bar better is 10. I will search on for my "perfect" one
What about Bertucci?!
seiko looks great but my wrist is small, so i picked up the smaller version of this model sbsa201
As a Canadian, I was obligated to go for the Marathon GPM
Did the marathon go up in price?
Oooooh I love the old music from the beginning of the channel
Still waiting for Hamilton (w/o date). Bulova was my favorite of the three.
The Ball Blue is Spectacular
For me, the Seiko is the far superior watch... 100 meters water resistance... 39mm diameter... Day/Date function... And looks as good as the other two watches.
I will be getting the Seiko over the Hamilton. Daily watch, so don't care about the power reserve. It's the superior watch for ME
Hey Teddy what are your thoughts on the SWC Bunker? An absolute killer of a field watch for 430 bucks in my opinion.
Great picks! I have both the Hamilton and the Marathon on my wish list.
I would go for the Bulova or maybe a Boldr. Or wait and get a Hamilton.
The numbers on the Bulova look almost art deco
You sold me on the Marathon
So I started my day with my timex expedition on a khaki/green canvas strap, and then this video popped up lol.
That can be dangerous . A year or so ago, the Timex was my daily wear. I decided I wanted another watch that was a little nicer. Six watches, each a little more expensive later, I'm watching watch videos on a Tuesday night.
@@tjfish9683 I have about ten watches, and my Timex Expedition along with Seiko SNK809 which I fitted the NH36 movement to get most of my wrist time.