Nothing worse than a 55mm gray market wooden Franken Watch that was stolen and cleverly converted into a fake vintage Rolex and then sold on eBay at AD pricing.
So, I guess I'll have to cancel the purchase of that stolen much hyped 56 mm vintage Doniel Washington wooden converted pocket watch from the grey market.
Sorry but as a bigger man(6’3, 242 lbs) watches smaller than 42mm look about as stylish as wearing pants 2 sizes too small! A young relative gave me a nice bulova watch that was 38mm and the band was too small and the watch face was”too petite” for my wrist
I understand the rationale for making a "better" watch buying decision but my young son bought me a tasteful looking minimalist MVMT watch for Christmas two years ago and I'm thrilled with it.
@@basshead. That is true, but they are a digital technology, which historically become obsolete over time, where as the analog technologies still remain today. It's just a matter of time ^_~
Hi Urban Gentry, Your last point about stolen watches really struck me. You see, I received a Rolex Daytona 116503 for my 18th birthday from my godmother and her husband. It was truly the most treasured gift I had ever received and wore it everywhere. I receive the watch at a point in my life were I was starting to really enjoy horology and become passionate about the topic. I began researching more and more and discovering more and more. Until I went on a summer holiday in Spain (2019) with some friends where my watch was stolen. My parents had warned me not bring the watch with me and not to wear it. They told me it would be better off at home. I ignored them because all I wanted to do was show my watch off to the world! It was as if I wanted it to be apart of me and I wanted to create stories with it so that when I pass it down to my children it would have its own family history. However, as mentioned it was stolen from me. I was mugged by force and never felt so stupid, worthless and weak. I was emotionally destroyed and even though it has been a few months since the incident I still think about, what if? What if I listened to my parents, what if I was more careful. Everybody told me it wasn't my fault it can happen to anyone and sure their right, but I will never shake off that feeling of it being my fault. I had only owned the watch for a few months and it truly hurt. It was as if something had stripped a part of me away. I was so ashamed I couldn't even dream of looking into my godmother and her husband's face and tell them what had happened. Luckily, I have an amazing mother and amazing family who were there to support me. As I said it has been a few months since the incident and I still think about it today. It is only in the past few weeks that I have been able to enjoy the passion of horology again, as after being mugged, I couldn't wear a watch for months, nor look at one. Especially a Daytona as it hurt to see it. You see, owning a watch isn't just a thing on your wrist, it is much more than that, and that watch meant something so specially to me and that is why it has affected me so deeply. Anyway, I just wanted to thank you Urban Gentry, as it is thanks to you that I have begun to embrace horology again and started to wear a watch again. I also wanted to share this story with you and the rest of your viewers as I don't want people to make the same mistakes as me. Hopefully everybody can learn something from my horrible experience. I really do hope you see this Urban Gentry and the rest of your viewers, and if you do please don't hesitate to ask me any questions or contact to me as it would make my day. Thank you for reading my story, Philip
a similar thing happened at the 'end' of the green dial production I bought mine below RRP and it is a fantastic watch having kept running even after being on the wrist in 100 mph car crash (combined speed in a head-on collision) but I saw them on ebay for almost three times the price.
Wouldn't call it stupid, I'd say uninformed...people that haven't been exposed to the information in videos like these have no way to know they're being scammed lol I almost made some of the same mistakes as a newbie to watch collecting but I stopped myself and did a few hours of web surfing and research.thankfully I didnt pull the trigger on a $200 vircenco lmao I really thought I was getting a bargain
I wonder if it’s the same thing that happened to the Seiko Spirit Smart. They were going for under or around $200 on Amazon a few years ago and now they’re in the thousands. I’m guessing because production also stopped on those.
I've had no issues at all buying seikos, citizen, etc from gray market.. eBay, TJ Maxx , jomashop, etc. Alot of times, the gray market is half the price and these Japanese watches last forever. I wouldn't buy gray market if I were in the market for a Rolex or high end Swiss piece. But for Seiko, citizen, Bulova, it seems just fine
I've never been a fan of wooden watches, but I'm a huge lover of antique wooden clocks like French empire period portico clocks and English Georgian bracket clocks made from mahogany, walnut or ebony with gilt ormolu mounts and inlays, they're magnificent pieces of work. Great video TGV 👍
Owen Treadgold unless u use a high polish finish on it i dont think youd notice the small scratches, unless u were using something like polyurethane. Wood treated with oil should be ok
Fiber reinforced polymers are very durable. I imagine the wood is basically stabilized with so much plastic it's virtually a polymer. The idea that it's ecofriendly is a joke; they're just going to end up in a landfill.
Top 3 best selling watches in Czech Republic according to Heureka (biggest price comparison portal) 1. Daniel Wellington DW00100164 2. Foxwood Black Velvet - wooden watch 3. Diesel DZ7370 - 57mm watch ... I dont want to live on this planet anymore
diesel 57 mm???? well, the people generally swallow marketing shit all over the world, but that diesel, that's real simpleton mark....and the story goes on that czechs are not as big peasants as poles and slovaks :)
This information is beneficial indeed. You can avoid a lot of headaches by playing it safe. Watch enthusiasts can be impulsive (I have been) and that can cost a lot of money, and confidence. Great advice!
Love the inclusion of the overhyped watches. Man it’s so true! 2019 is the year of the hype. It seems that manufacturers and the watch community are getting sucked into the idea of scarcity. No ones going to miss out and watches are far from scarce. Sure, some high end brands are creating a limited market, but guys for those that collect, don’t lose sight of the journey. It’s a passion of time, over time.
Hey Urban Gentry, thank you for getting me into watches, making quality content and just being a proper gentleman. Keep up the good work! Wholeheartedly From Long Island.
That's where I got my Orient Bambino from. I don't care if I can save a few bucks elsewhere, I know what I'm getting, I know if something wrong it will be taken care by LIW or Orient if needed.
Bought a Faulty watch and then poor customer care.... He can’t say the name and me neither. But the name start with Joma and finish with shop. I can’t say more. I am sorry.
True at about Basel world. Also glad I'm not the only one who is sick of limited editions that just get scalped. From Rolex to Seiko they are all doing it now.
You said something profound in your video and I've been thinking about it the past couple of days. Your remark about buying a genuine piece of art and wearing a bit of history on your wrist is so deep, I decided to buy a Sinn 104 like the one you showcased in your video.
I love wooden watches. One, they're super light-weight and comfortable. Two, they make great conversation pieces! I get more compliments on my wooden watches than my more expensive watches.
I also still stick to your first rule, which is never go in to debt for a watch, so I am patiently saving up for my Tudor Black Bay GMT and also hoping the prices will come down in the meantime. Thanks for the great video and I hope you and yours are doing well. P.S. You are ahead of the game and have Halloween sorted out already too, lol. :)
i was been told i was no.15 on the long waiting list of Tudor AD here in Malaysia..and the AD only received 1 to 2 every few months..ouch.....i've done saving for the Black Bay GMT..but no stock!~
I am putting my daughter through Pharmacy school, paying them monthly, it's year 5 our of 6. When it's done, I'll be ready to retire soon there after, I'm not a fan of non AD or vintage watches, on the later it's a me thing and respect others who do like vintage watches. I'm willing to drop $5 or 6K and pay for it upfront, either a Seamaster or Speedmaster. This is for me to wear and enjoy, while I prefer automatics, would be more than happy to go winding.if it will put in the affordability area. I've been to one AD in Philadelphia and they do have what I want when the time comes, as well as their suggestion of recent pre-owned. I just want something with the peace of mind of a warranty, not having to worry about constant servicing and when the time comes, will be able to go to that store and have them take care of it, and either I pick it up or have them mail it back. I don't know for some reason I've always liked Omega's watches. Everybody has their own feelings and wants, no right or wrong. I hope you get your Tudor and find enjoyment from it.
Im not convinced the $5,000 going to rolex is any more moral than the $50 going for a knock off. It is verry dificult to become a millionare without stepping on some people. Sure Rolex is a good company, but how did you earn that money? Is it 100x cleaner per dollar?
I am looking into buying a seiko 5 or a good watch under 100 bucks What’s your opinion on it. I bought an skx009 about 9 months ago and was very satisfied. Me being 14 am new to this hobby and don’t wanna make any mistakes.
Kinda freaked out by the Halloween mask.bit to convincing to be honest. I agree with all your points and take most of them into consideration before a purchase(except wooden or fashion,never gonna happen). Btw 'scumbaggery' definitely worth an entry into the English Dictionary.good work fella.
Grey market is fine based on what you are buying. If you are looking for a watch over 1500 dollars you should go with an AD/quality used. A 300 dollar Tissot or something though? Go ahead, it will be fine.
@@eyeheartsushi2212 good choice! Tissot makes some great watches, a PRC 200 chrono was actually my first "real watch" purchase when I started collecting.
When I saw your intro I thought: This man got it, this style and humor that makes him untouchable by all his haters and competitors. Respect Sir! You are the one and only governor.
"Not everybody can be Flavor-Flav...." Haha!! Love the opening "scene" too. Happy April Fool's Day! Interesting about the converted pocket watches, as I had no idea about those. Great video! Thank you TGV.
TVG, I could NOT be into watches and still love watching your channel. It's like not being a car guy and still loving Top Gear. (Of COURSE the British one.) But I am into watches, so....bonus. Keep it up mate.
I love the gesture, he is obviously somebody worth of respect and for that you have mine. I hope he still enjoys and. treasures it. Thank you, Best regards, TGV
Peter Shallis I bet more of us have been caught out than we like to admit, I’ve got a Franken Seiko 5 on the way from India after a drunken browse on eBay lol
I agree about overpriced fashion stuff, but we need to have equal standards for everything. the luxury watches are also heavily overpriced and you pay for the brand name even more than for most of fashion brands....their cost of making is what? most of them buy eta movements in bulks which costs very little and put them in watches that cost thousands....that said, I think it's ok to buy fashion watch if you like the design for less than 100....it will hardly be that bad it won't make financial sense....if the biggest 'problem' is it won't ever be collectable, then actually there isn't a problem ;)
Disagree, when you buy a luxury brand you're buying luxury brand quality. A Rolex alone take a year to make, also luxury watches depending on what you buy have decent retail value
Same thing with a car. Buy a Bugatti or a Toyota Camry. Bugatti is royally over priced and a fortune to maintain, while a Toyota Camry will go for miles and miles and parts are cheap. A car is a car. 4 wheels, a steering wheel, and gas engine. Same thing with name brand watches or anything name brand. Polo shirt, $89 with polo logo. Without, $9.99. Same shirt. Monte Blanc pen $389+, Parker or Cross, $9.99+.
I started my horological journey because of you TGV and it was when I was doing research for a DW and saw your video discussing it and well I bought myself my first automatic, the beloved Seiko 5 SNK809 😊
You nailed it TGV. There's absolutely nothing wrong with an oversized watch if you have the stature. 9 inch wrist here and anything under 44mm looks like a toy on my wrist. I know a lot of guys have wrist envy and wish they could pull off wearing the larger pieces.
Great video! With all the affordable watches with history and heritage (and reliability) between $500 and $1200, why buy a fake or illicit "hot" watch? Save your money and get something that will supply you with the inner satisfaction of it being authentic and well earned.
Dear tgv, i used to be a watch snob but after watching your channel, i got into watches and appreciated them more than ever..:) bought 2 seiko watches and a swatch body and soul...really amazing...more power! Greetings from the philippines
As a man who had his first mechanical watch stolen whilst on holiday (38mm Christopher Ward trident) I couldn't agree more with your #1 pick. Something that I wouldn't wish on anyone else! Great list and video as always TGV
Wow! I go to work in Beijing on April 2, click on your channel and we are wearing the same watch! Casio digital, great minds. Let me be a bit clearer, I bought it last summer, brought it to Beijing but never wore it. Put it on the first time Tuesday.
bro your breakdown of the crime syndicate and the pain that these bastards are founded upon that do this shit to people to sell dumbass watches that aren't worth human lives and suffering.... The awareness and acknowledgement of that alone deserves 10 times the subscribers you have.... Props to you bro
Hey TGV, Regarding the grey market, I had a pretty bad experience with a grey-market seller (which will remain unnamed). I ordered a Citizen NaviHawk AT, and things seemed fine until I looked closer. The solar panel for the EcoDrive on the center of the dial was much more brown-grey than in the photos that I'd seen, which wasn't a huge issue. What *was* a significant issue was the power reserve. It would take *hours* to charge to full and remain there for mere minutes before dipping to the second segment. Possibly the power cell, possibly the EcoDrive could have caused this. Didn't seem right for a watch that can run for 6 months on a solar charge of 45 minutes. No chance of registering with Citizen's excellent 6yr warranty as is typical with grey market, but I had been very watchful of these details thanks to your previous video about the grey market. I actually called Citizen and got top-tier help; I asked about the replacement cost of the power cell under warranty -- zero, for life. That experience alone convinced me to return the watch and rebuy it from an authorized retailer. The "gotcha" came when I decided to return the watch. Not a restocking fee, but the grey market place charged me their original shipping fees, despite getting originally "free shipping" on top of paying for shipping back to them on my end. Obviously the shipping *isn't* free, but charging that to your customer on a single return is rediculous when that fact was only stated on the RMA form. Not in their returns info section on the website. ONLY on the RMA form. I was out about $40. Not the end of the world, but worth getting a proper warranty from Citizen and not worrying about issues. I found the watch for $80 more on Overstock.com, an authorized Citizen distributor, still about 60% of retail price, and the watch shipped from Citizen *directly.* Lesson learned: always look around. Do your research, and then research further. Thank you for the amazing content, TGV.
My Dad’s friend found a Tag Heuer Carrera in its service box in the glove box of a bmw curtesy car. He reported it to Tag Heuer and to the BMW dealership neither of which said it had been reported. At this point I suppose there isn’t really much he can do as it has been about a year and he hasn’t heard anything, does this kind of count as stealing though?
@@nevahenuf How can the finder trust that the people at the dealership would act any more honest than he? Further, what is the dealership going to do, force him to surrender the found property? I think not. This story sounds completely plausible.
I love the 'ticking off' ; 'you can fool everyone else, but you can't fool yourself...have some self respect' Splendid. 'You've let yourself down, you've let you're friends down... There's a lotta people faking it but watches are a good place to start calling 'em out.
TGV, I am a bit late to the party but I could not agree more with your number 1. I work at a small watch retailer/servicer and we are an AD for several well known brands. Last year our store was broken into and almost 100 of our pieces were stolen by thieves. We are still fighting to get our watches back but it has been over a year almost two. Although the police have tracked a majority of them, many are still missing and they are holding onto them for evidence. We are a small business and crimes like that hurt us very bad.
Yea. I buy inexpensive vintage watches and I assume they will require a rebuild. So, I make sure to only buy the ones that I really fancy. In pure financial terms, it is an irrational decision, but I like old watches. Yes, it is risky.
Wood watches are a thing here in Hawaii, but they end up being one of those items that's bought only as a gift: no one every buys one for themselves, like a Hickory Farms Suasuage gift box.
I once traded a (genuine) vintage Seiko for a Franken Fortis for my cousin at an ACTUAL brick and mortar watch store. Didn’t know it was a Frankenwatch. Will never do that again.
I love it when a Brit busts some moves in a Mike Myers (Captain kirk) mask. Its what makes life worth living and is the EXACT reason why I "tune in." Happy April Fools! WAY TO GO, TGV!! Lol! ==@==
A factual sense of humor is good, the information and opinions are honest, serious when it needs to be. TGV make's me laugh, generally don't like to watch youtube video's over 15 minutes, here and a few others are an exception.
Great video, as for buying a stolen watch, if you are not buying new, it's hard to know. Anyone can buy a box and papers on ebay. You're better off buying a new Seiko 5 than risking buying stolen or a franken.
I’ve bought many from that large grey market site (the one that’s legit), and it’s great. Yes you save a LOT. ADs make megabucks on these watches. Easy for you to say “avoid it”... will you pay the difference? As for service: I’ve bought one grey market watch that failed. The online shop replaced it immediately and even paid my extra customs charges. Rather than saying “avoid and pay double”, how about you tell us WHICH grey market dealers are the good ones? I’m sure there’s NO legal reasons you can’t praise good retailers...
Saying avoid the grey market is an unfortunate generalization. There are many reputable such dealers who sell quality products at sometimes very good prices. The key is to check out their reviews...
Today's goal is to use the phrase "The scumbaggery of it all..." in conversation. I live in NY so it shouldn't be to hard. But that is my new favorite word.
Just noticed...I built the same Star Trek Enterprise model that he has on the top shelf! painted each and every window by hand. (hundreds of windows). A labour of love.
I don't know anything about Hodinkee but I know they pissed me off. How do they have any influence over a particular watch and company? Something isn't right. I don't watch any of their videos on TH-cam. Again I don't know anything about them, so this may be a ignorant comment, but it seems they don't love watches they just love the market. That is my impression. Maybe someone can explain them to me.
Great video as usual ..thank you...if i recall a while back you said you were gonna share yer screen saver site....thanx again i really dig the channel.
Great vid. Everything you said is true and common sense. I cannot afford the Rolexes and Omegas of the world, but I have a nice collection of legitimate, high-quality watches that I enjoy and am proud to wear. Keep up the great work, love your channel!
Excellent review with a great deal of valuable information. Every point you made was "right on" and to the point. I have abided by your suggested rules for years, before I watched this TH-cam piece. It's all logical and it makes 100% sense. It is imporant that you continue to make your points and letmyour voice heard. Thank you very much!
I have a dinner plate sized fossil that I bought to "get me back into watches" lol which clearly I was never actually into. I had a casio and bulova quartz dress watch from zales lol. 10 years later I had zero. I got that stupid fossil, which led me to my sieko 5, which lead me to the orient ray 2 I got 2 days ago. Now eyeballing a chronograph. Im not very well paid so the going is slow, but I am super into all of this right now thanks to you. As long as I remain within my budget all should be well. Cant deny starting to really want a speedmaster tho. Like really really want. Thanks TVG.
Hey TGV, with regards to homages, what about those homage watches that are basically almost clones of a reputable watch except with a different logo or even no logo? As an example, the "brand" Corgeut, which sells Black Bay "homages" that kept the Tudor crown. I get this suspicion that these are fakes that didn't pass QC or something, so they were re-branded. There are also a lot of Aliexpress watches that are supposed to be homages, but buyers get sent a fake watch instead.
The Mike Myers bit is glorious ha ha. You (if it’s you) look the part...until you stood and somehow the mask is somehow too big ha ha. Nice video as always. Kudos
Your videos got me OBSESSED with watches, and all the history behind them, I knew absolutely nothing about them until your vids. I just bought my first Breitling the other day, something I never thought would be possible haha, thank you for all the great content!! God bless
Everything is grey market if not from AD. I’ve bought from jomashop authenticwatches, and watchmaxx with no issues. I also have bought from ADs as well. I went to a AD a few months ago and he gave me the crap about how grey market watches are fakes blah blah. But the the carried preowned rolexes. But they aren’t a Rolex dealer! I said wow u sell fake rolexes because ur not Rolex AD!! I said ur a greymarket Rolex dealer! He said nothing haha
Must confess I have a grey market watch from my early days of collecting and whilst I’ve come to terms with it now; the anxiety it gave me for the first 3 months wasn’t worth it.
![[Full Episode] MasterChef Junior Thailand มาสเตอร์เชฟ จูเนียร์ ประเทศไทย Season 3 Episode 10](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/8kldrPPsDZs/mqdefault.jpg)
A friend of mine bought a wooden watch once... it wooden work...
ChrisChibnall59 😂😂😂
hahaha
Booooo!
Hahaha
😂
Nothing worse than a 55mm gray market wooden Franken Watch that was stolen and cleverly converted into a fake vintage Rolex and then sold on eBay at AD pricing.
...and then Hodinkee commissions the maker to produce 2500 of them, calls them limited editions, and sells them for well above their actual value;-)
LORD HAVE MERCY!!!!! xD
I lol’d
A full package...
with box and papers
So, I guess I'll have to cancel the purchase of that stolen much hyped 56 mm vintage Doniel Washington wooden converted pocket watch from the grey market.
nicely summed :)
Lmfao doniel washington
Nirooj Fidin sounds like a beautiful watch lol
10. Wooden watches
9. Problematic Vintage watches
8. Grey Market watches
7. The Overhyped watch (limited release)
6. The Converted Pocket watch
5. The Oversized watch
4. The Fashion watch (MVMT, DW, etc)
3. Franken watches
2. Fake watches
1. Stolen watches
Thanks amigo!
What is your opinion for Tudor black bay 36?
My step-father wants to give me a wooden watch and I said no thanks. I just can't go there, lol!
Sorry but as a bigger man(6’3, 242 lbs) watches smaller than 42mm look about as stylish as wearing pants 2 sizes too small! A young relative gave me a nice bulova watch that was 38mm and the band was too small and the watch face was”too petite” for my wrist
Number 1 and 2 I would consider lol
Remember boys and girls, a MVMT is something one does with one's bowels.
Not anything to wear on one's wrist.
Well put
BWLMVMT
Because the watches are $h!t.
Maybe, but MVMT was just bought for $100m....
I understand the rationale for making a "better" watch buying decision but my young son bought me a tasteful looking minimalist MVMT watch for Christmas two years ago and I'm thrilled with it.
#11 - Stupidly OVERPRICED Limited Editions!
lololol
Every watch is overpriced. Mobile phones made watches useless.
@@basshead. watches go up in value and phones go down in value over time.
+muffemod Smartphones can do more things than watches.
@@basshead. That is true, but they are a digital technology, which historically become obsolete over time, where as the analog technologies still remain today. It's just a matter of time ^_~
Hi Urban Gentry,
Your last point about stolen watches really struck me.
You see, I received a Rolex Daytona 116503 for my 18th birthday from my godmother and her husband. It was truly the most treasured gift I had ever received and wore it everywhere. I receive the watch at a point in my life were I was starting to really enjoy horology and become passionate about the topic. I began researching more and more and discovering more and more.
Until I went on a summer holiday in Spain (2019) with some friends where my watch was stolen. My parents had warned me not bring the watch with me and not to wear it. They told me it would be better off at home. I ignored them because all I wanted to do was show my watch off to the world! It was as if I wanted it to be apart of me and I wanted to create stories with it so that when I pass it down to my children it would have its own family history.
However, as mentioned it was stolen from me. I was mugged by force and never felt so stupid, worthless and weak. I was emotionally destroyed and even though it has been a few months since the incident I still think about, what if? What if I listened to my parents, what if I was more careful. Everybody told me it wasn't my fault it can happen to anyone and sure their right, but I will never shake off that feeling of it being my fault. I had only owned the watch for a few months and it truly hurt. It was as if something had stripped a part of me away. I was so ashamed I couldn't even dream of looking into my godmother and her husband's face and tell them what had happened. Luckily, I have an amazing mother and amazing family who were there to support me.
As I said it has been a few months since the incident and I still think about it today. It is only in the past few weeks that I have been able to enjoy the passion of horology again, as after being mugged, I couldn't wear a watch for months, nor look at one. Especially a Daytona as it hurt to see it. You see, owning a watch isn't just a thing on your wrist, it is much more than that, and that watch meant something so specially to me and that is why it has affected me so deeply.
Anyway, I just wanted to thank you Urban Gentry, as it is thanks to you that I have begun to embrace horology again and started to wear a watch again. I also wanted to share this story with you and the rest of your viewers as I don't want people to make the same mistakes as me. Hopefully everybody can learn something from my horrible experience.
I really do hope you see this Urban Gentry and the rest of your viewers, and if you do please don't hesitate to ask me any questions or contact to me as it would make my day.
Thank you for reading my story,
Philip
I love how the black polo makes it look like a TGV floating head. 😊
Ther are 3 parties to blame for the crazy prices on the Alpinists.
1) Seiko
2) Unscrupulous sellers
3) Stupid buyers
I have the cream dial, what would one pay for it?
a similar thing happened at the 'end' of the green dial production I bought mine below RRP and it is a fantastic watch having kept running even after being on the wrist in 100 mph car crash (combined speed in a head-on collision) but I saw them on ebay for almost three times the price.
Wouldn't call it stupid, I'd say uninformed...people that haven't been exposed to the information in videos like these have no way to know they're being scammed lol I almost made some of the same mistakes as a newbie to watch collecting but I stopped myself and did a few hours of web surfing and research.thankfully I didnt pull the trigger on a $200 vircenco lmao I really thought I was getting a bargain
@@ramaporiver803 anywhere from $500 to $1000 after looking around online. Might be more as the cream dials seem very rare.
I wonder if it’s the same thing that happened to the Seiko Spirit Smart. They were going for under or around $200 on Amazon a few years ago and now they’re in the thousands. I’m guessing because production also stopped on those.
I've had no issues at all buying seikos, citizen, etc from gray market.. eBay, TJ Maxx , jomashop, etc. Alot of times, the gray market is half the price and these Japanese watches last forever. I wouldn't buy gray market if I were in the market for a Rolex or high end Swiss piece. But for Seiko, citizen, Bulova, it seems just fine
Channel Q, if it’s from a reputable grey market dealer, why would you not purchase?
I've never been a fan of wooden watches, but I'm a huge lover of antique wooden clocks like French empire period portico clocks and English Georgian bracket clocks made from mahogany, walnut or ebony with gilt ormolu mounts and inlays, they're magnificent pieces of work.
Great video TGV 👍
I would love to see a durability test on a wooden watch, quite possibly the least durable watch material
Owen Treadgold idk but i would think the hinges are made of steel, and if anything would break its that. Probably as strong as any other watch but idk
Hugedickerino Kripperino it would scratch far easier and there is no way of not noticeably repairing the damage
I actually own a wooden watch, though my timex is my every day watch. The wooden watch was given to me.
Owen Treadgold unless u use a high polish finish on it i dont think youd notice the small scratches, unless u were using something like polyurethane. Wood treated with oil should be ok
Fiber reinforced polymers are very durable. I imagine the wood is basically stabilized with so much plastic it's virtually a polymer. The idea that it's ecofriendly is a joke; they're just going to end up in a landfill.
Top 3 best selling watches in Czech Republic according to Heureka (biggest price comparison portal)
1. Daniel Wellington DW00100164
2. Foxwood Black Velvet - wooden watch
3. Diesel DZ7370 - 57mm watch
... I dont want to live on this planet anymore
Probably you need to move to Slovakia haha
diesel 57 mm???? well, the people generally swallow marketing shit all over the world, but that diesel, that's real simpleton mark....and the story goes on that czechs are not as big peasants as poles and slovaks :)
Nechápu jak může někdo nosit tak velké hodinky..
Diesel 57mm sound like plane engine and, dundunDUH, it's the size of one.
Garbage
This information is beneficial indeed. You can avoid a lot of headaches by playing it safe. Watch enthusiasts can be impulsive (I have been) and that can cost a lot of money, and confidence. Great advice!
Love the inclusion of the overhyped watches. Man it’s so true! 2019 is the year of the hype. It seems that manufacturers and the watch community are getting sucked into the idea of scarcity. No ones going to miss out and watches are far from scarce. Sure, some high end brands are creating a limited market, but guys for those that collect, don’t lose sight of the journey. It’s a passion of time, over time.
Best channel on youtube. You've helped me avoid so many pitfalls when my watch addiction started. Cheers to a successful 2019!
It’s because of this channel I bought my first automatic watch 😍
Its because of this channel i got into watches to
Eco-friendly watches - you just have to ask, how long before it gets sent to landfill?
A funny intro. Lovely to hear the voice of what I can assume is Mrs TGV. Hopefully she will cameo again.
A grandfather clock should be the only timepiece made of wood
I had an Omega Seamaster chronograph with a 1040 movement stolen last year. Ironically it was not on eBay.
Pocket watches converted to a wrist watch... LMFAO. I totally didn't know this was a thing 😂
it's actually the original thing
David Kelly no doubt
Hey Urban Gentry, thank you for getting me into watches, making quality content and just being a proper gentleman. Keep up the good work!
Wholeheartedly From Long Island.
That's where I got my Orient Bambino from. I don't care if I can save a few bucks elsewhere, I know what I'm getting, I know if something wrong it will be taken care by LIW or Orient if needed.
Bought a Faulty watch and then poor customer care.... He can’t say the name and me neither. But the name start with Joma and finish with shop. I can’t say more. I am sorry.
Was it from longislandwatch?
Vincero got me into watches via their ads. Luckily I never got one, but went for a Seiko 5 instead 🎉😊
Same goes for me with an Armani watch, but I bought a Hamilton instead
Vincero got me into watches as well. Ended up buying an Orient Bambino
I hope you've put a Nato Strap on that beauty
PartiZAn18 Ended up with top grain for the snxs79 ;) i.redd.it/jrc0vocbciq21.jpg
@@rikusoraleon Lol same
True at about Basel world. Also glad I'm not the only one who is sick of limited editions that just get scalped. From Rolex to Seiko they are all doing it now.
You can buy on the grey market if it is just a Seiko or Citizen. The risk for a real loss is low.
You said something profound in your video and I've been thinking about it the past couple of days. Your remark about buying a genuine piece of art and wearing a bit of history on your wrist is so deep, I decided to buy a Sinn 104 like the one you showcased in your video.
The T-Rex made me LOL! You have earned a new subscriber you funny bloke!
All very good points though.
URBAN GENTRY.....YOU ARE THE MAN! WE LOVE YA! KEEP ON EDUCATING US!
Dear TGV, you made me watch-enthusiastic, greetings from Holland : )
Thank you Jim, that res me profoundly happy to hear that.
O&U!!!
Best regards,
TGV
P.s. LOVE Holland!!! :D
Very nice to see more Dutch watch enthusiasts 👍🇳🇱
@@koen8844 boys, wat hebben we allemaal... ik heb een een srp313, een skx009,een citizen nighthawk en veel casio.... ben poor
@@theurbangentry ik ben dus niet de enige 😢
Michiel Roskam Ik heb een skx007, seiko 5, orient bambino en een seiko quartz chronograaf... tgv heeft duidelijk invloed xD
I love wooden watches.
One, they're super light-weight and comfortable.
Two, they make great conversation pieces! I get more compliments on my wooden watches than my more expensive watches.
you got me with that thumb nail, i was like "i know he isn't gonna hate on the seiko" i agree with your reason.
I bought a wooden watch a year ago for $50 ..... I hated my self, but the termites loved me
If you want to get into watch collecting, then a Hamilton, Tissot or Certina does the job. Also Seiko and Orient offer great value for money.
Richard Martin yep, so many good options for little (comparatively) money!
I agree love my Certina Action Diver
The Seiko 5 i own is automatic and looks great, only cost me 100 dollars and its exactly what i needed!
Just picked up my first "real" watch- a Certina, and it's great!. The only problem now is I have to buy more now that I've got the bug.
Richard Martin
...also G-SHOCK . Especially MRG, MTG and GST models..
Really enjoy your vids. Thank you so much
I also still stick to your first rule, which is never go in to debt for a watch, so I am patiently saving up for my Tudor Black Bay GMT and also hoping the prices will come down in the meantime. Thanks for the great video and I hope you and yours are doing well. P.S. You are ahead of the game and have Halloween sorted out already too, lol. :)
Smart move .. save up for it and you'll appreciate it more . Good for you !
Marktuyet Not to mention, a brilliant watch to be saving for in the first place
i was been told i was no.15 on the long waiting list of Tudor AD here in Malaysia..and the AD only received 1 to 2 every few months..ouch.....i've done saving for the Black Bay GMT..but no stock!~
I am putting my daughter through Pharmacy school, paying them monthly, it's year 5 our of 6. When it's done, I'll be ready to retire soon there after, I'm not a fan of non AD or vintage watches, on the later it's a me thing and respect others who do like vintage watches. I'm willing to drop $5 or 6K and pay for it upfront, either a Seamaster or Speedmaster. This is for me to wear and enjoy, while I prefer automatics, would be more than happy to go winding.if it will put in the affordability area. I've been to one AD in Philadelphia and they do have what I want when the time comes, as well as their suggestion of recent pre-owned. I just want something with the peace of mind of a warranty, not having to worry about constant servicing and when the time comes, will be able to go to that store and have them take care of it, and either I pick it up or have them mail it back. I don't know for some reason I've always liked Omega's watches. Everybody has their own feelings and wants, no right or wrong. I hope you get your Tudor and find enjoyment from it.
try thr black bay on first they are very thick and uncomfortable. i sold mine cos of this
Im not convinced the $5,000 going to rolex is any more moral than the $50 going for a knock off. It is verry dificult to become a millionare without stepping on some people. Sure Rolex is a good company, but how did you earn that money? Is it 100x cleaner per dollar?
+ a lot of folk don't have $5,000 to pay for one...
“Rolex explorer chronograph Seamaster” 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Haha "have some self respect and get rid of those replica watches". Totally agree.
Or have both
I am looking into buying a seiko 5 or a good watch under 100 bucks What’s your opinion on it. I bought an skx009 about 9 months ago and was very satisfied. Me being 14 am new to this hobby and don’t wanna make any mistakes.
Seiko 5s are pretty good, but I'd try to get a vintage timex or a seagull 63 chronograph
Thanks
Discovered a new word to add to my collection today:
SCUMBAGGERY
Thanks!
Kinda freaked out by the Halloween mask.bit to convincing to be honest.
I agree with all your points and take most of them into consideration before a purchase(except wooden or fashion,never gonna happen).
Btw 'scumbaggery' definitely worth an entry into the English Dictionary.good work fella.
Grey market is fine based on what you are buying. If you are looking for a watch over 1500 dollars you should go with an AD/quality used. A 300 dollar Tissot or something though? Go ahead, it will be fine.
Karkarov LOL I happen to be eyeing a $300 Tissot on Jomashop.
@@eyeheartsushi2212 good choice! Tissot makes some great watches, a PRC 200 chrono was actually my first "real watch" purchase when I started collecting.
When I saw your intro I thought: This man got it, this style and humor that makes him untouchable by all his haters and competitors. Respect Sir! You are the one and only governor.
@@HansPD yes
Coming from the same childhood f91 experience, I go with a the casio w800h today. The f91 buttons are a big minus for me, so the w800h is just it.
"Not everybody can be Flavor-Flav...." Haha!! Love the opening "scene" too. Happy April Fool's Day! Interesting about the converted pocket watches, as I had no idea about those. Great video! Thank you TGV.
TVG, I could NOT be into watches and still love watching your channel. It's like not being a car guy and still loving Top Gear. (Of COURSE the British one.) But I am into watches, so....bonus. Keep it up mate.
I did get my father a wooden watch because he has always enjoyed woodworking. He really loved the wooden link band.
I love the gesture, he is obviously somebody worth of respect and for that you have mine.
I hope he still enjoys and. treasures it.
Thank you,
Best regards,
TGV
I got caught out by a Frankenwatch Oris a couple of years back, I still cringe with embarrassment at the memory..
Peter Shallis I bet more of us have been caught out than we like to admit, I’ve got a Franken Seiko 5 on the way from India after a drunken browse on eBay lol
I agree about overpriced fashion stuff, but we need to have equal standards for everything. the luxury watches are also heavily overpriced and you pay for the brand name even more than for most of fashion brands....their cost of making is what? most of them buy eta movements in bulks which costs very little and put them in watches that cost thousands....that said, I think it's ok to buy fashion watch if you like the design for less than 100....it will hardly be that bad it won't make financial sense....if the biggest 'problem' is it won't ever be collectable, then actually there isn't a problem ;)
most luxury watches have in-house movements...
Disagree, when you buy a luxury brand you're buying luxury brand quality. A Rolex alone take a year to make, also luxury watches depending on what you buy have decent retail value
@@MatchesMalone98 damn talk about grave digging.
That doesnt make you less right :D
Same thing with a car. Buy a Bugatti or a Toyota Camry. Bugatti is royally over priced and a fortune to maintain, while a Toyota Camry will go for miles and miles and parts are cheap. A car is a car. 4 wheels, a steering wheel, and gas engine. Same thing with name brand watches or anything name brand. Polo shirt, $89 with polo logo. Without, $9.99. Same shirt. Monte Blanc pen $389+, Parker or Cross, $9.99+.
I started my horological journey because of you TGV and it was when I was doing research for a DW and saw your video discussing it and well I bought myself my first automatic, the beloved Seiko 5 SNK809 😊
I can't stop staring at the Enterprise D in the background
My dad just gave me his Tag Heuer Mercedes Benz SLR to me and I'm loving it, though it's a bit expensive to walk around my area with
I sure hope the trend of the Jumbo Clown Quartz® is over.
You nailed it TGV. There's absolutely nothing wrong with an oversized watch if you have the stature. 9 inch wrist here and anything under 44mm looks like a toy on my wrist. I know a lot of guys have wrist envy and wish they could pull off wearing the larger pieces.
Great video! With all the affordable watches with history and heritage (and reliability) between $500 and $1200, why buy a fake or illicit "hot" watch? Save your money and get something that will supply you with the inner satisfaction of it being authentic and well earned.
"You are fooling yourself and fooling people around you" isn't that the whole point of wearing a Rolex?
You are so right about the sentimental value of watches, thank You for mentioning that :-)
Dear tgv, i used to be a watch snob but after watching your channel, i got into watches and appreciated them more than ever..:) bought 2 seiko watches and a swatch body and soul...really amazing...more power!
Greetings from the philippines
Good advice. My advice would be:
Follow your own style. Wear what makes you happy. And always research for lower prices from trustworthy dealers.
As a man who had his first mechanical watch stolen whilst on holiday (38mm Christopher Ward trident) I couldn't agree more with your #1 pick. Something that I wouldn't wish on anyone else! Great list and video as always TGV
Great vlog! Super informative without be condescending. Keep up the great work.
Wow! I go to work in Beijing on April 2, click on your channel and we are wearing the same watch! Casio digital, great minds. Let me be a bit clearer, I bought it last summer, brought it to Beijing but never wore it. Put it on the first time Tuesday.
Wow!! You Tube in China ???
Bernard Wong well, thanks to technology.
bro your breakdown of the crime syndicate and the pain that these bastards are founded upon that do this shit to people to sell dumbass watches that aren't worth human lives and suffering.... The awareness and acknowledgement of that alone deserves 10 times the subscribers you have.... Props to you bro
Hey TGV,
Regarding the grey market, I had a pretty bad experience with a grey-market seller (which will remain unnamed). I ordered a Citizen NaviHawk AT, and things seemed fine until I looked closer. The solar panel for the EcoDrive on the center of the dial was much more brown-grey than in the photos that I'd seen, which wasn't a huge issue. What *was* a significant issue was the power reserve. It would take *hours* to charge to full and remain there for mere minutes before dipping to the second segment. Possibly the power cell, possibly the EcoDrive could have caused this. Didn't seem right for a watch that can run for 6 months on a solar charge of 45 minutes.
No chance of registering with Citizen's excellent 6yr warranty as is typical with grey market, but I had been very watchful of these details thanks to your previous video about the grey market. I actually called Citizen and got top-tier help; I asked about the replacement cost of the power cell under warranty -- zero, for life. That experience alone convinced me to return the watch and rebuy it from an authorized retailer.
The "gotcha" came when I decided to return the watch. Not a restocking fee, but the grey market place charged me their original shipping fees, despite getting originally "free shipping" on top of paying for shipping back to them on my end. Obviously the shipping *isn't* free, but charging that to your customer on a single return is rediculous when that fact was only stated on the RMA form. Not in their returns info section on the website. ONLY on the RMA form. I was out about $40. Not the end of the world, but worth getting a proper warranty from Citizen and not worrying about issues.
I found the watch for $80 more on Overstock.com, an authorized Citizen distributor, still about 60% of retail price, and the watch shipped from Citizen *directly.*
Lesson learned: always look around. Do your research, and then research further.
Thank you for the amazing content, TGV.
Why wouldn’t you mention the seller? I don’t understand this.
My Dad’s friend found a Tag Heuer Carrera in its service box in the glove box of a bmw curtesy car. He reported it to Tag Heuer and to the BMW dealership neither of which said it had been reported. At this point I suppose there isn’t really much he can do as it has been about a year and he hasn’t heard anything, does this kind of count as stealing though?
No
Wouldn't the dealership retain it if it was in their rental car? They have to know who had the car previously. Kind of doubt your story as read.
@@nevahenuf How can the finder trust that the people at the dealership would act any more honest than he? Further, what is the dealership going to do, force him to surrender the found property? I think not. This story sounds completely plausible.
I love the 'ticking off' ; 'you can fool everyone else, but you can't fool yourself...have some self respect' Splendid. 'You've let yourself down, you've let you're friends down... There's a lotta people faking it but watches are a good place to start calling 'em out.
TGV, I am a bit late to the party but I could not agree more with your number 1. I work at a small watch retailer/servicer and we are an AD for several well known brands. Last year our store was broken into and almost 100 of our pieces were stolen by thieves. We are still fighting to get our watches back but it has been over a year almost two. Although the police have tracked a majority of them, many are still missing and they are holding onto them for evidence. We are a small business and crimes like that hurt us very bad.
Yea. I buy inexpensive vintage watches and I assume they will require a rebuild. So, I make sure to only buy the ones that I really fancy. In pure financial terms, it is an irrational decision, but I like old watches. Yes, it is risky.
it doesn't sound like TGV has updated his "kids lingo".
Wood watches are a thing here in Hawaii, but they end up being one of those items that's bought only as a gift: no one every buys one for themselves, like a Hickory Farms Suasuage gift box.
Damn I feel called out. I'd buy those sausages packs for myself.
I once traded a (genuine) vintage Seiko for a Franken Fortis for my cousin at an ACTUAL brick and mortar watch store. Didn’t know it was a Frankenwatch. Will never do that again.
I just assumed number one was gonna be the Tudor P01!? ;)
I love it when a Brit busts some moves in a Mike Myers (Captain kirk) mask. Its what makes life worth living and is the EXACT reason why I "tune in."
Happy April Fools!
WAY TO GO, TGV!! Lol!
==@==
Thank you Mike, deeply appreciated my friend O&U!
Best regards,
TGV
A factual sense of humor is good, the information and opinions are honest, serious when it needs to be. TGV make's me laugh, generally don't like to watch youtube video's over 15 minutes, here and a few others are an exception.
Since you added that little bit of funniness and just taking a chance going out there at the end,
I’m gonna give you a
“Like”!
Great video, as for buying a stolen watch, if you are not buying new, it's hard to know. Anyone can buy a box and papers on ebay.
You're better off buying a new Seiko 5 than risking buying stolen or a franken.
"Scumbaggery" is definitely going to be added to my vocabulary from now on 👍
I’ve bought many from that large grey market site (the one that’s legit), and it’s great. Yes you save a LOT. ADs make megabucks on these watches. Easy for you to say “avoid it”... will you pay the difference?
As for service: I’ve bought one grey market watch that failed. The online shop replaced it immediately and even paid my extra customs charges.
Rather than saying “avoid and pay double”, how about you tell us WHICH grey market dealers are the good ones? I’m sure there’s NO legal reasons you can’t praise good retailers...
Saying avoid the grey market is an unfortunate generalization. There are many reputable such dealers who sell quality products at sometimes very good prices. The key is to check out their reviews...
Today's goal is to use the phrase "The scumbaggery of it all..." in conversation. I live in NY so it shouldn't be to hard. But that is my new favorite word.
Just noticed...I built the same Star Trek Enterprise model that he has on the top shelf! painted each and every window by hand. (hundreds of windows). A labour of love.
Hope that knife doesn't get you demonitized.
Only in the UK 🤣
Hopefully it has a GPS in it.
I don't know anything about Hodinkee but I know they pissed me off. How do they have any influence over a particular watch and company? Something isn't right. I don't watch any of their videos on TH-cam. Again I don't know anything about them, so this may be a ignorant comment, but it seems they don't love watches they just love the market.
That is my impression. Maybe someone can explain them to me.
Great video as usual ..thank you...if i recall a while back you said you were gonna share yer screen saver site....thanx again i really dig the channel.
Great vid. Everything you said is true and common sense. I cannot afford the Rolexes and Omegas of the world, but I have a nice collection of legitimate, high-quality watches that I enjoy and am proud to wear. Keep up the great work, love your channel!
scumbaggery.. Lol Save up and buy a legitimate watch you will appreciate it more
Hold up...Tristano remembered a reference number...what have you done with the REAL TGV ;) Great video brother hope you're well!
Hugo made me more of a watch fan than I ever was b4. And he was the real reason I subbed tbh. 🦖🦖
Excellent review with a great deal of valuable information. Every point you made was "right on" and to the point. I have abided by your suggested rules for years, before I watched this TH-cam piece. It's all logical and it makes 100% sense. It is imporant that you continue to make your points and letmyour voice heard. Thank you very much!
I have a dinner plate sized fossil that I bought to "get me back into watches" lol which clearly I was never actually into. I had a casio and bulova quartz dress watch from zales lol.
10 years later I had zero. I got that stupid fossil, which led me to my sieko 5, which lead me to the orient ray 2 I got 2 days ago. Now eyeballing a chronograph. Im not very well paid so the going is slow, but I am super into all of this right now thanks to you. As long as I remain within my budget all should be well. Cant deny starting to really want a speedmaster tho. Like really really want. Thanks TVG.
Wearing the A158W while I watch!
*Hey TGV, I think you should shorten your opening titles, as I tend to skip them to watch the main feature.*
Hey TGV, with regards to homages, what about those homage watches that are basically almost clones of a reputable watch except with a different logo or even no logo? As an example, the "brand" Corgeut, which sells Black Bay "homages" that kept the Tudor crown. I get this suspicion that these are fakes that didn't pass QC or something, so they were re-branded. There are also a lot of Aliexpress watches that are supposed to be homages, but buyers get sent a fake watch instead.
Now that's the quality content I've subscribed for !😂
The Mike Myers bit is glorious ha ha. You (if it’s you) look the part...until you stood and somehow the mask is somehow too big ha ha.
Nice video as always. Kudos
Your videos got me OBSESSED with watches, and all the history behind them, I knew absolutely nothing about them until your vids. I just bought my first Breitling the other day, something I never thought would be possible haha, thank you for all the great content!! God bless
I’m one of those people who started with a fashion watch and through the magic of youtubers like yourself, found some Swiss and Japanese brands I love
Costco is a reputable grey market dealer. I bought an Omega aqua terra there. No problems
Walt Conrad Can’t go wrong with Costco
Everything is grey market if not from AD. I’ve bought from jomashop authenticwatches, and watchmaxx with no issues. I also have bought from ADs as well. I went to a AD a few months ago and he gave me the crap about how grey market watches are fakes blah blah. But the the carried preowned rolexes. But they aren’t a Rolex dealer! I said wow u sell fake rolexes because ur not Rolex AD!! I said ur a greymarket Rolex dealer! He said nothing haha
imagine your wooden watch getting moldy
Imagine your wooden watch getting termites
Must confess I have a grey market watch from my early days of collecting and whilst I’ve come to terms with it now; the anxiety it gave me for the first 3 months wasn’t worth it.
Why was you anxious?
I just found your channel and found it to be very informative. Well done.