I have a very different experience with Hamilton. After repair under warranty without any questions or other hassle, I received another 2-year warranty.
The Citizen ownership has done wonders for FC. I've been loving all their latest releases these last few years! Thanks for premiering yet another gorgeous one for us TGV!
@@rondejean7668 I've got one from the 60's and it's gorgeous watch. It's time keeping doesn't stop to amuze me, it gains 2 secs per 24 hour, hard to find anything better in the mechanical world even by today's standards. I wouldn't put Longines in the same group with Hamilton and Tissot, but that's just me.
I wore my late Dad's watch once in public, and 3 immigrant youths was looking way to suspicious at it, so now it's reserved for private gatherings exclusively.
Longines is absolutely awesome in its own right and it’s category just like Tissot! I use to think Tissot was meh because they sold them @ Macys and then I bought a couple Tissot mechanicals and haven’t stopped smiling since!
@@jdrockefellas Congratulations Joel! What color Dial? Quartz or Powermatic 80? I have a new Tissot couturier powermatic 80. Even though a watchmaker can’t adjust/regulate the calibre as it’s laser regulated from the factory it’s fantastic. I got it for less than even Jomashop! When the time comes years from now(god willing) for service I’m gonna buy a higher grade powermatic 80 calibre from Tissot that can be adjusted by watchmaker as I’ll eventually leave this Watch to one of my sons.
Tissot is not amazing, but at that price point I would classify it as 'perfectly fine'. Some models are better than others, but for the most part, just buy what you feel looks nice and there's nothing wrong with that. Longines honestly could be sold for more - its price point unfairly makes a lot of people think it's inferior to watches that are slightly more expensive. Again, it may not be incredibly high horology and finishing, but they have a strong history of quality and innovation and many of the collections are great. Hamilton is probably a little overrated/overpriced for what it is, but it has a unique DNA and design language, and isn't stupidly expensive for what it is (like Hublot or Franck Muller). Another brand I would classify as 'perfectly fine'.
Lots of brands just replace movements rather than service them. Most won’t even tell you they have done so. A lot will have you believe it’s only the Seikos of the world who do this - but major luxury brands with ‘in-house’ movements do it too - including Tudor, Hamilton, Longines etc. most buyers are happy with this. You get a new movement!
I will have to do a video about this, for me it's a big issue. This is part of many reasons I hire Independent watchmakers that I tell EXACTLY what I want done and report back to me all the changes they will make before they do it. Great idea for a video and comment, thank you! Best regards, TGV
Some of the movements with more modern plastic-like materials are basically non-serviceable anyway; and as cost-effectively as these movements are being produced, replacing the entire movement is almost certainly cheaper than the labor cost to service it. ETA: I see TGV eventually makes this very point in the video.
When i started building watches for my own, the ETA2824 was widely available and the price was o.k., too.With Swatch tying ETA to swatch-group brands only, Seiko's 4R movements got more attention but i must say that the two Miyota powered watches i have (9015 and 9075) are more fun because of the higher beat rate, the nicer sweep and the smaller size of the movements.
My PRX has gained two seconds in three weeks. That’s almost as good as my Bulova Lunar Pilot, which has a 10 seconds per year movement. In addition, the PRX is based on an original historical watch. So *I* feel it.
Your watch reviews are starting to look like small documentaries, which is fantastic off course! I've been following your channel basically from the start and it just keeps on getting better, keep up the good work! Btw, I still love my Longines watches, they are still no.1 favourite on my list, cheers!!
I used to have the same thinking being a control freak about accuracy and regulating my own watches. However, having obtained a few watches with free sprung balances, from Omega to Certina, I have to say there's a sort of freedom in just leaving it alone. It helps if the factory regulation is good enough that I don't feel the need to change it, which so far I've been lucky with. ETA are doing an excellent job delivering good performance with these movements. In my experience they are consistently better performers than the 2824s they replaced. As for serviceability, 90% of the movement is still the same as the old 2824 we know and love. The updates are isolated to the balance assembly and the mainspring. The entire movement is still just as serviceable, and with these being churned out in the milliions already, finding parts will be easy. And sure, the brand service centers are swapping out whole movements, but they were doing that before with the 2824s, anyway. I really don't see serviceability on these being very much different from before.
Although your criticism of swatch groups mid tier is understandable, the new awesome vintage cosc certified Tissot and many of the Longines watches don’t use the powermatic. I find FC often just doesn’t have an identity of its own . I enjoy how Tissot and Longines have true brand history and often use this history their advantage..cheers!
The Powermatic series is repairable. Regulation is done via rotor weights (like rolex). Plastic parts are self lubricating and amagnetic. Fwiw silicon balance wheels are only replaceable, they can't be repaired. Similarly, entry level Seiko movements are 100% replaced at the service centers.... As are Tudor movements.
@@theurbangentry I agree, it is possible but quite difficult. Thankfully calibers like the G100, SW-200-1 and similar are available for an easier regulation experience.
The plastic parts arent self lubcricating at all. Thats the main problem with the C07.111 compared to the C07.611. Pre mature wear on the escapement wheel. Its nylon pastic, which isnt self lubcricating, not a scilicon.
It must be just with the English speaking TH-cam, I seen several of the Italian watch channel cover it and they adore it. Thank you, great point. Longines has these underrated pockets, especially with vintage and beyond the entry level when buying new. Best regards, TGV
@@tancreddehauteville764 I do agree 👍 it's pretty up there in price but I do see them for about $2,500 unworn all the time. That's probably the route I would go. If I was to pull the trigger
Well I totally get your thoughts on these swatch automatic dumbed down ETA ‘s T. The fact that these watches aren’t actually very affordable anymore is the real kicker! With regards to FC! totally not my style , I’m not ready for my pipe and slippers yet! Happy to share a cigar or 2 one day;) love the bubble back idea for sure and the decoration is awesome . I’ve seen that ostrich strap on so many of your watches through the years!!!!!!!!
You make a good point about having a connection with your watch sir . If you don't have that you are unlikely to enjoy it . However as we always mention everyone is different. What holds no interest from one person doesn't mean the next person doesn't or shouldn't love it. If it fits your wrist enjoy wearing it 👍
I'm late to comment, but have to say your videos are more a pleasure to watch than ever. I used to watch your channel for the good information, thoughtful insights about why we like watches, and the like-able wit. All of which is still there, but your little films now have a pacing and style that rise above anything I see in this genre. You've been at this a while but only getting better. I love that you have let your preferences evolve and change too--I always learn some new perspective you're pondering. It's not easy in the watch enthusiast market to keep standards absolutely tops but at the same time foster sensibility along with soul and feel.
The FC Highlife perpetual calendar is so good I almost impulse bought one. The tourbillion is an amazing feat as well. This piece isn't particularly flashy in terms of headlines, but boy does it ever deliver incredible value and like you said it just oozes craftsmanship and subtlety. FC has been killing it lately and i hope they keep it up.
A very put together video. Thank you. I like that watch very much. I like my Citizens and my Seiko. I have difficulty spending that much to tell time but I appreciate the art and engineering.
Love the Casio MRW-200H, wear mine almost daily for work. Casio and the Citizen Group are my favorite bunch of watches. Considering a Lorus Titanium and Bertucci for the same role to give the Casio MRW-200H a couple battery swaps before retirement from a rugged and long life. Going to try and find a tempered glass protector I can put over the acrylic crystal and the MRW-200H would be ready for long term use. The Miyota 2035 is perfect, gained 4 seconds in a month, and it’s a reliable and cheap movement.
I think replacing movements rather than servicing them likely happens with higer end movemens too. Perhaps not patek and VC and GP. But companies like Tudor and Breitling and IWC that make so many movements anually. It just seems more cost effective to swap a movement on a warrantied watch.
Powermatic and Sytem51 are not the same at all. The Powermatic 80 movement is a modified EtA 2824. Bigger mainspring, slower beat rate and a free sprung balance get double the power reserve of the old 2824. Regulation, via weights on the balance wheel, and service are not an issue. Also only Tissot 23 jewels Powermatic use that plastic escapement part. All other Swatchgroup brands don't have plastic parts in their Powermatic with 25 jewels. Again, like the old 2824. It has absolutely nothing to do with Swatch System 51, indeed a disposable, mostly plastic movement.
That's exactly what TGV said?! It can't be regulated easily at home, some powermatics have plastic parts ie the escapement which is a joke tbh, the beat rate is lowered to give a longer power reserve, machine made mass produced movements....
@@kbeightyseven actually he's talking about the Powermatic and then shows a System51 from the Blancpain/Swatch 50 phatoms. He said it's disposable, it's not.
They're laser regulated which I think it's what Tristano was trying to highlight. It means if you wish to get better performance from your watch, it's really only Tissot that can perform it for you, and that's even if they would. From looking at their price list, they just seem to offer light intervention, standard service or complete overhaul.
@@DarrenBates I have dozens of watches from Tissot, Certina, Mido and Hamilton with this movement over the past 10 years. I have sent in several for service and two Tissots and Certinas just for regulation. Service is the same price as ETA 2824, and the regulation didn't cost me anything. They do it for free. If you don't want to send it to Servicecenter an independant watchmaket can regulate it, same as he would regulate a movement from Omega, Rolex, Longines etc.
Thank you for producing such great content. It's a pleasure to watch while learning and having fun at the same time. I'm looking for a dress watch with some class. I'll try out this one and Carree Heart Beat Automatic, although the latter seems to be too large for my taste..
I think TGV needs to do a review of the Longines Spirit Zulu Time GMT & Longines Heritage Small seconds. Might even change his mind. Longines is amazing for its entry level luxury price point.
Great idea, I have been considering it.The Zulu does nothing fore me, but since the last Longines review in August, the heritage stuff really is more my style. Then again, maybe reviewing a watch I don't like from afar could be more interesting, then again, I could end up with a another Seiko Willard situation! 😅😅😅💸💸 Thank you, duly noted, Best regards, TGV
@@theurbangentry Thanks for the response TGV. Love your content. I have the Zulu Time and it's actually classy, well made, great design and it looks and feels like a real luxury watch with it's brushed sides, polished bevelled edges, and ring on the dial and diamond cut outs, because it is, just on the entry to mid level side. The attention to detail for the price is amazing. Also, check out the new Frederique Constant Tourbillion with meteorite dial, amazing. Ciao
@@gnarl12 I was looking at them and thinking they're very "me". Frederique Constant are class, absolutely love the innovation with the slimline monolithic manufacture, but there's something that really appeals to me about some of the new Longines and Hamilton releases. Will be another while before I can pull the trigger on the Hamilton but I'm sure I will soon enough. Can't wait to have it on wrist.
Your videos are always on the up and up,what you truly think and why. one can't help but Appreciate that.keep them coming and thank you for the kind words.
The combination with the Ostrich strap is beautiful. I also wish the hands were blue. Hard not to put the trigger ;) Thank you for this great presentation!
Great. I was hoping that only few will notice this FC release, so by the time I'm able to purchase it, there will still be some left. But after this vid its gonna be sold out everywhere. Thanks tgv. Thanks bud. 🙄 Appreciate your eagerness. Truly.
Earlier this year I got Aquastar's model 60 reissue which also uses the La Joux-Perret G100. I haven't had it long but it does seem to be a slightly better movement than the 2824 or sw200. The power reserve is much longer and also more accurate. It's a cool change of pace from the eta and selita movements to you find in everything these days.
Oooo bold title T! Looking forward to what you have to say. When it comes to underrated gems, you're the best at finding them ofc. I think Longines' heritage collection are incredible bang for buck tho. The sector dial and tuxedo chrono are pure class, both going into the art deco and you i both love so much.
What about Mido (Swatch conglomerate) for a quality entry level swiss watch which rises above the mass cheap production of the logines, tissot, hamilton fold?
I bought an fc thin quartz 35 mm on sale, 75 pct off. At first, I thought it too small, but in formal attire, it's the perfect dress watch and 35 mm is just right. This new fc is excellent, too.
I don't mind the premise of the modular/machine regulated movements. I think that was an inevitable direction for lower end Swiss watchmaking. What I don't know is how easily one can determine which watches are machine-assembled. Is Swatch Group making that information easily available alongside standard specifications? IMO they should, yet I doubt they do. (So glad TGV is educating people about it!) Swatch Group's machine-regulated movements are souvenirs of craft, not craft itself. Souvenirs have their place. Depending on the price and the reason I want the watch, maybe it's OK. But, if someone buys a mechanical watch because they are sustainable and long-lasting, a machine-assembled movement (at least how they are achieved today) misses that mark.
I tried on that very same Freddie Constant during a cruise recently and it's one of those models that's way better in hand and on wrist, pictures don't do it justice, very nice piece. Count me among the uncouth fans of the Powermatic as well, or maybe it's just that I like the models so much - really digging my Tissot Gentlemans (green and silver) and Hamilton Jazzmaster. They're not just robust and accurate, that movement is incredibly consistent, in other words running the exact same plus or minus every day in all conditions. I do enjoy regulating other brands I own, I totally get that as well. But the Powermatics are so solid they don't need it. I really dig that turtle that did a quick cameo by the way, nice pick up!
I recently had the NH35A movement replaced in my Invicta Grand Diver on the advice of my watch servicde people. The watch remains mine in every way that counts. It is similar to replacing the filling system on a fountain pen. Speaking of watches, do you have any opinion of Jean Marcel watches of Switzerland?
I couldn’t agree with you more, fantastic video, thank you. I treated myself to one of these with a solid 18k gold case and have never regretted it one iota. It’s a delight to hear you echo all the points that I also thought when I bought mine, especially the 18th century dial reference which gives me pleasure every time I look at it. It keeps superb time, I set it once a week and frequently the time is spot-on which is saying something for a mechanical movement. I’m one of those strange people who thinks that quartz movements aren’t real as I want the history that comes with a mechanical movement - okay, I know it’s not as accurate, but call me old fashioned, it’s important to me to wear history on my wrist and quartz movements just leave me cold.
Good Lord. Those close up shots of the FC are stunning. And how did I miss the juxtaposition of the Titanic and the Enterprise D in the background until now? Thank you as always for the entertaining and erudite content.
Thank You TGV For saying about the Swatch Groups powermatic movement And all it's variants What I have been saying since they came out! You are much more able to Influence the Industry than some nobody like Myself! You add class and Knowledge to any subject You adress!
Great video as usual. Speaking for myself: I'm not feeling the FC design in any way or form. It's too vintage for me. I do enjoy my Hamilton (Interstellar) and Tissot PRX a lot. Also love my Goldeneye Combat Sub..
The Urban Gentry - thank you for touching on the point of movements that are replaced when a watch is serviced. I believe this is the practice even for Tudor and Rolex, since those movements are made by robots and CNC machines rather than old-school stamping and milling. In my view, maybe only Glashütte Original and JLC make watches with movements serviceable for decades ahead. Any thoughts on this?
I know you’ve long sold the Stowa Maritime, but this FC does remind me of it somewhat. The rail track, the Roman numerals, the large crown etc. I bought the Stowa after your amazing video - and still love it!
Great video as always. I really wish FC the best. In my opinion They need only one thing - identity. FC borrow many things from other brands (Breguet hands /slim line reminds me LS Saxonia, and highlife line VC 222). They do it in safiscitated way, but I don't see FC yet.
Great to hear from you TGV, What a cracking watch! I definitely agree with you! So much more class and quality then any general mid-tier watches you have discussed like Hamilton And Tissot! Thank you so much for another great video! Love the intro! Ps. Jeeves and Wooster is also one of my favorite classic movies! Stay healthy and well as always! Your watch enthusiast, (Nicholas L) ⏱️⏱️⏱️👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻🦖🦖🦖🥂🥂🥂🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹
I always find TGV content to be the best on the web. Your knowledge and format are always fascinating and entertaining in a fabulously sophisticated manner.
Do you make that”deep connection “ with your modern Casio’s? And please show us how you regulate one? Free independent reviews are only beneficial when not hypocritical !
I’m glad to hear TGV highlight the G100. I notice it being moved into some microbrand watches in the $1k range. For instance, Farer has stopped using the sw-200 in their Three-Hand series and replaced it with the G100. I might be off the rails here, but it feels like the G100 is making the SW-200 obsolete.
Thank you TGV for another over-produced video with rare conceptual content which attempts to give us some insights into how you precive modern, mass produced watches. I share your views that many of these watches are not nearly 'special' enough when churned out in such numbers in totally automated mega factories, to be desireable keepsakes. Just a small technical point regarding the 80 hour power reserve; the longer reserve was accomplished by lenghting the mainsping. To do this the barrel arbour was made smaller & the spring was made thinner. As a consequence, the torque of the spring was lower, so the beat rate had to be reduced. Apparently the accuracy beyond 24 hours was maintained at a high level. Cheers and all the best in '24.😊😊
I think the point about "non-serviceability" is not as big a deal as people make it. How a movement is serviced by the manufacturer just isn't that big a deal; you think anyone is servicing Seiko movements that cost $30 to replace? Yet you and many others sing their praises. Even Tudor reportedly replaces movements when serviced. As long as the watch itself can be serviced then it's fine. The low beat rate Swatch movements can absolutely be regulated and serviced, and even if replaced, they are compatibile with basic and common ETA movements. The watches are totally fine.
I have a LJP movement in my Synchron Ice Diver. It’s pretty good. Ok winding feel and some rotor wobble, but the extra power over the 2824 is much appreciated. It feels like many watch brands put in-house movements in their watches these days, and then expect you to send the watch back to them to service. Sometimes the movement isn’t serviceable 🫣This isn’t the case with LJP and I love that 👍
Interesting discussion TGV! I had my Seiko 5 SNK809 serviced by Seiko, and it cost more than I paid for the watch. I'm pretty sure they replaced the entire movement, but it didn't bother me. The case and crystal are what have scuffs and scratches, which reflects my history with the watch 🙂
@@davidcrandall4958 that's a fair question, and one I debated on for close to a year before going through with it. The SNK809 was my first automatic watch, and I wore it during some important times in my life. I debated purchasing a new one since I love the design, but then I'd still have the first one which would just sit broken. So I decided to have it serviced, and now I'm able to wear it. When I look at whatever watch I'm wearing, it is not only to tell the time, but to also look at the watch. When I look at that watch, it makes me smile 🙂
I'm always looking forward to see how you bring based content to the watch world in a masterfully subversive fashion. Your videos are full of references, objects, words of wisdom that bring hope and inspiration to many men and all that is done mostly under the radar of the power that be. Well done, TGV and thank you.
You are leading the watch enthusiasm indeed👌 I have one question.. What do you think about Frederique Constant Junior? I own it for 3 years and nobody knows about it. It has same dial measurements as 38,5mm, something grey dial colour, looks very special to me. There are some cons, like very small crown etc. but i like it. Regards👋🏻
Hamilton.. tries to make warranty issues your fault until you prove twice over that they are warranted
Same happened to me with Tissot watches
Mmm
M my hi y
Me too, twice
I have a very different experience with Hamilton. After repair under warranty without any questions or other hassle, I received another 2-year warranty.
I had a great warranty experience with Hamilton. Well beyond the end of the warranty period but they fixed it anyway.
The new trend is: “The more expensive the watch you wear the greater the chance of getting your wrist chopped off.”
The Citizen ownership has done wonders for FC. I've been loving all their latest releases these last few years! Thanks for premiering yet another gorgeous one for us TGV!
I could not agree more! I will own one eventually, I am sure of it.
Thank you Alex, I am so glad you agree. O&U!
Best regards,
TGV
@@theurbangentryhighly recommend! I have an older Peking to Paris chronograph and a Highlife Perpetual Calendar which gets a ton of wrist time!
@@theurbangentryI doubt you’ll ever own a citizen, most of their watches are quartz. And you’re a watch snob.
The Longines Heritage and Masters collections are unmatched when you talk price point.
I like the ultra chron but haven’t seen one in person
I agree 👍👍. I have a Big Eye Avigation chrono' and a Zulu time. I definitely connect with those two....
I've just commented something very similar.
@@rondejean7668 I've got one from the 60's and it's gorgeous watch. It's time keeping doesn't stop to amuze me, it gains 2 secs per 24 hour, hard to find anything better in the mechanical world even by today's standards.
I wouldn't put Longines in the same group with Hamilton and Tissot, but that's just me.
I agree
Probably my favorite watch content creator. Every video I feel my life slow down and I can relax for a few minutes. It's an entire vibe.
I wore my late Dad's watch once in public, and 3 immigrant youths was looking way to suspicious at it, so now it's reserved for private gatherings exclusively.
For classy and affordable watches Longines is still tops for me, though FC has certainly improved and is an undoubted competitor.
Longines is absolutely awesome in its own right and it’s category just like Tissot!
I use to think Tissot was meh because they sold them @ Macys and then I bought a couple Tissot mechanicals and haven’t stopped smiling since!
I just bought a Tissot PRX from Macys and I love it!
@@ryanjofre Yes, Tissot is a solid brand.
@@jdrockefellas Congratulations Joel! What color Dial? Quartz or Powermatic 80? I have a new Tissot couturier powermatic 80. Even though a watchmaker can’t adjust/regulate the calibre as it’s laser regulated from the factory it’s fantastic. I got it for less than even Jomashop! When the time comes years from now(god willing) for service I’m gonna buy a higher grade powermatic 80 calibre from Tissot that can be adjusted by watchmaker as I’ll eventually leave this Watch to one of my sons.
Tissot is not amazing, but at that price point I would classify it as 'perfectly fine'. Some models are better than others, but for the most part, just buy what you feel looks nice and there's nothing wrong with that.
Longines honestly could be sold for more - its price point unfairly makes a lot of people think it's inferior to watches that are slightly more expensive. Again, it may not be incredibly high horology and finishing, but they have a strong history of quality and innovation and many of the collections are great.
Hamilton is probably a little overrated/overpriced for what it is, but it has a unique DNA and design language, and isn't stupidly expensive for what it is (like Hublot or Franck Muller). Another brand I would classify as 'perfectly fine'.
Lots of brands just replace movements rather than service them. Most won’t even tell you they have done so. A lot will have you believe it’s only the Seikos of the world who do this - but major luxury brands with ‘in-house’ movements do it too - including Tudor, Hamilton, Longines etc.
most buyers are happy with this. You get a new movement!
I will have to do a video about this, for me it's a big issue. This is part of many reasons I hire Independent watchmakers that I tell EXACTLY what I want done and report back to me all the changes they will make before they do it. Great idea for a video and comment, thank you!
Best regards,
TGV
Some of the movements with more modern plastic-like materials are basically non-serviceable anyway; and as cost-effectively as these movements are being produced, replacing the entire movement is almost certainly cheaper than the labor cost to service it.
ETA: I see TGV eventually makes this very point in the video.
@@theurbangentry that sounds like an excellent video idea
I always liked the look of the longines Zulu. And what a brilliant name for a watch
One of the reasons I bought mine
I just saw the Zulu 39mm in store, and it looks amazing on my petite wrist
Absolutely in love with my Longines Zulu Time GMT. Think the quality is excellent and definitely gives Tudor a run for its money in that class.
Where’d you buy yours? I plan to hit a few authorized dealers next week and worried they’re low stock (I want the green bezel)
@@stocksxbondage I bought mine at Ben Bridge.
Longines has fantastic bang for the buck and some lovely designs. The Legend Diver is a masterpiece of a watch. The Zulu watches are also great.
No it doesn't at all) made from the shitty materials, price is high for non in house movement...where is the value?!?
@@TemplatesTemplate2390-fk8vk”non in house” 🤦♂️
@@TemplatesTemplate2390-fk8vk what is your perfect brand that makes perfect watches?
@@TemplatesTemplate2390-fk8vk WTF? Compared to what? Rolex? Omega?
When i started building watches for my own, the ETA2824 was widely available and the price was o.k., too.With Swatch tying ETA to swatch-group brands only, Seiko's 4R movements got more attention but i must say that the two Miyota powered watches i have (9015 and 9075) are more fun because of the higher beat rate, the nicer sweep and the smaller size of the movements.
My PRX has gained two seconds in three weeks. That’s almost as good as my Bulova Lunar Pilot, which has a 10 seconds per year movement. In addition, the PRX is based on an original historical watch. So *I* feel it.
That's impressive. My Sinn 556 is double the price and gains 5 seconds a day.
My PRX gains 4 seconds a day. @@MakerInMotion
Your watch reviews are starting to look like small documentaries, which is fantastic off course! I've been following your channel basically from the start and it just keeps on getting better, keep up the good work! Btw, I still love my Longines watches, they are still no.1 favourite on my list, cheers!!
I used to have the same thinking being a control freak about accuracy and regulating my own watches. However, having obtained a few watches with free sprung balances, from Omega to Certina, I have to say there's a sort of freedom in just leaving it alone. It helps if the factory regulation is good enough that I don't feel the need to change it, which so far I've been lucky with. ETA are doing an excellent job delivering good performance with these movements. In my experience they are consistently better performers than the 2824s they replaced.
As for serviceability, 90% of the movement is still the same as the old 2824 we know and love. The updates are isolated to the balance assembly and the mainspring. The entire movement is still just as serviceable, and with these being churned out in the milliions already, finding parts will be easy. And sure, the brand service centers are swapping out whole movements, but they were doing that before with the 2824s, anyway. I really don't see serviceability on these being very much different from before.
Please buy up as many of these wonders as you can then !
Although your criticism of swatch groups mid tier is understandable, the new awesome vintage cosc certified Tissot and many of the Longines watches don’t use the powermatic. I find FC often just doesn’t have an identity of its own . I enjoy how Tissot and Longines have true brand history and often use this history their advantage..cheers!
I am still wearing the Original RangeMaster. I love this watch and it keeps great time. Your Channel has to be the best watch channel on TH-cam!
👏👏👏👏 Thank you so much, you just made my day, twice!
Onwards, and ever upwards my friend.
Best regards,
TGV
Got my wife a FC small seconds as her introduction to watches and was pleased with the build quality and design execution. A wonderful brand.
The Powermatic series is repairable. Regulation is done via rotor weights (like rolex). Plastic parts are self lubricating and amagnetic. Fwiw silicon balance wheels are only replaceable, they can't be repaired. Similarly, entry level Seiko movements are 100% replaced at the service centers.... As are Tudor movements.
Great comment, thank you. I wish I could regulate them!
Best regards,
TGV
@@theurbangentry I agree, it is possible but quite difficult. Thankfully calibers like the G100, SW-200-1 and similar are available for an easier regulation experience.
The plastic parts arent self lubcricating at all. Thats the main problem with the C07.111 compared to the C07.611. Pre mature wear on the escapement wheel. Its nylon pastic, which isnt self lubcricating, not a scilicon.
Plastic as self lubricanting? How? By it abrasive ?
I really like the Longines Ultra chron diver. It has a great history and a great high beat movement. But for some reason its overshadowed
It must be just with the English speaking TH-cam, I seen several of the Italian watch channel cover it and they adore it.
Thank you, great point. Longines has these underrated pockets, especially with vintage and beyond the entry level when buying new.
Best regards,
TGV
ever see the LACO diver. not bad
@@theurbangentry Vintage Longines/ Wittnauer are quite stunning
It's simply too expensive. In the UK this sells for over £3k and that's a lot of change here.
@@tancreddehauteville764 I do agree 👍 it's pretty up there in price but I do see them for about $2,500 unworn all the time. That's probably the route I would go. If I was to pull the trigger
Always a great day when TGV uploads 😊
🙏🙏🙏 Thank you you friend.
Best regards,
TGV
Well I totally get your thoughts on these swatch automatic dumbed down ETA ‘s T. The fact that these watches aren’t actually very affordable anymore is the real kicker! With regards to FC! totally not my style , I’m not ready for my pipe and slippers yet! Happy to share a cigar or 2 one day;) love the bubble back idea for sure and the decoration is awesome . I’ve seen that ostrich strap on so many of your watches through the years!!!!!!!!
😅great comment Russell
You make a good point about having a connection with your watch sir . If you don't have that you are unlikely to enjoy it . However as we always mention everyone is different. What holds no interest from one person doesn't mean the next person doesn't or shouldn't love it. If it fits your wrist enjoy wearing it 👍
Always a top comment, you are, absolutely right. Onwards, upwards and thank you my friend.
Best regards,
TGV
I noticed the universal geneve is making it in a lot of videos. Would love to hear your opinion on them, especially the Shadow series.
Thank you, I have done 2 in-depth videos on there, here is one if you missed it, enjoy:
th-cam.com/video/H3JUGQFZcwo/w-d-xo.html
Best regards,
TGV
Yep believe I seen this one and inspired me to look more into the brand. I have a shadow now that needs service anywhere you would suggest?
I'm late to comment, but have to say your videos are more a pleasure to watch than ever. I used to watch your channel for the good information, thoughtful insights about why we like watches, and the like-able wit. All of which is still there, but your little films now have a pacing and style that rise above anything I see in this genre. You've been at this a while but only getting better. I love that you have let your preferences evolve and change too--I always learn some new perspective you're pondering. It's not easy in the watch enthusiast market to keep standards absolutely tops but at the same time foster sensibility along with soul and feel.
The FC Highlife perpetual calendar is so good I almost impulse bought one. The tourbillion is an amazing feat as well. This piece isn't particularly flashy in terms of headlines, but boy does it ever deliver incredible value and like you said it just oozes craftsmanship and subtlety. FC has been killing it lately and i hope they keep it up.
A very put together video. Thank you. I like that watch very much. I like my Citizens and my Seiko. I have difficulty spending that much to tell time but I appreciate the art and engineering.
Love the Casio MRW-200H, wear mine almost daily for work. Casio and the Citizen Group are my favorite bunch of watches. Considering a Lorus Titanium and Bertucci for the same role to give the Casio MRW-200H a couple battery swaps before retirement from a rugged and long life. Going to try and find a tempered glass protector I can put over the acrylic crystal and the MRW-200H would be ready for long term use. The Miyota 2035 is perfect, gained 4 seconds in a month, and it’s a reliable and cheap movement.
Editing on point in this video! Really enjoyed your take
I think replacing movements rather than servicing them likely happens with higer end movemens too. Perhaps not patek and VC and GP. But companies like Tudor and Breitling and IWC that make so many movements anually. It just seems more cost effective to swap a movement on a warrantied watch.
What is that red and gold Marcus Aurelius ring called? It is beautiful.
It's my custom pendent from my last EDC video I had made to honor him.
Thank you,
Best regards,
TGV
I couldn’t be any happier with Tissot @ the Swiss entry level….just awesome!!!
Fantastic video as usual, TGV! Often, simplicity is key - having more money doesn't necessarily equate to increased happiness.
Best content I have seen in years from you! Did you also cover their inhouse oscillating movement?
I am getting it today. Thank you for the review.
I absolutely love that FC! It's a beautiful watch! When I kicked the bucket, it would be on my wrist.
I’ll have to save up for this watch, but planning to get an orient bambino for now. Thanks for the video.
My first watch I bought over two years ago was an Orient Bambino Open Heart with the blue dial.
My first watch I bought over two years ago was an Orient Bambino Open Heart with the blue dial.
Man I love your decorating style. Your house is amazing. Keep up the great work
Powermatic and Sytem51 are not the same at all. The Powermatic 80 movement is a modified EtA 2824. Bigger mainspring, slower beat rate and a free sprung balance get double the power reserve of the old 2824. Regulation, via weights on the balance wheel, and service are not an issue. Also only Tissot 23 jewels Powermatic use that plastic escapement part. All other Swatchgroup brands don't have plastic parts in their Powermatic with 25 jewels. Again, like the old 2824. It has absolutely nothing to do with Swatch System 51, indeed a disposable, mostly plastic movement.
That's exactly what TGV said?!
It can't be regulated easily at home, some powermatics have plastic parts ie the escapement which is a joke tbh, the beat rate is lowered to give a longer power reserve, machine made mass produced movements....
@@kbeightyseven actually he's talking about the Powermatic and then shows a System51 from the Blancpain/Swatch 50 phatoms. He said it's disposable, it's not.
They're laser regulated which I think it's what Tristano was trying to highlight. It means if you wish to get better performance from your watch, it's really only Tissot that can perform it for you, and that's even if they would. From looking at their price list, they just seem to offer light intervention, standard service or complete overhaul.
@@DarrenBates I have dozens of watches from Tissot, Certina, Mido and Hamilton with this movement over the past 10 years. I have sent in several for service and two Tissots and Certinas just for regulation. Service is the same price as ETA 2824, and the regulation didn't cost me anything. They do it for free. If you don't want to send it to Servicecenter an independant watchmaket can regulate it, same as he would regulate a movement from Omega, Rolex, Longines etc.
Please..
which watch is better?
what do you recommend between Tissot leLocle ( not powermatic) automatic ladies and Seiko Presage Zen Lady?
Thank you!
Thank you for producing such great content. It's a pleasure to watch while learning and having fun at the same time. I'm looking for a dress watch with some class. I'll try out this one and Carree Heart Beat Automatic, although the latter seems to be too large for my taste..
Gorgeous watch. Thanks for featuring it.
Notice the monitors got swapped out in the war room! You go with a single LG 40 inch ultra wide? How do you like it?
I think TGV needs to do a review of the Longines Spirit Zulu Time GMT & Longines Heritage Small seconds. Might even change his mind. Longines is amazing for its entry level luxury price point.
Great idea, I have been considering it.The Zulu does nothing fore me, but since the last Longines review in August, the heritage stuff really is more my style. Then again, maybe reviewing a watch I don't like from afar could be more interesting, then again, I could end up with a another Seiko Willard situation! 😅😅😅💸💸
Thank you, duly noted,
Best regards,
TGV
@@theurbangentry Thanks for the response TGV. Love your content. I have the Zulu Time and it's actually classy, well made, great design and it looks and feels like a real luxury watch with it's brushed sides, polished bevelled edges, and ring on the dial and diamond cut outs, because it is, just on the entry to mid level side. The attention to detail for the price is amazing. Also, check out the new Frederique Constant Tourbillion with meteorite dial, amazing. Ciao
Fastest click of my life. Particularly because I spent the day lusting over the new Longines Hydroconquest GMTs and Hamilton Khaki Field Expeditions.
Both of those watches are just fine. FC makes nothing like them.
@@gnarl12 I was looking at them and thinking they're very "me". Frederique Constant are class, absolutely love the innovation with the slimline monolithic manufacture, but there's something that really appeals to me about some of the new Longines and Hamilton releases. Will be another while before I can pull the trigger on the Hamilton but I'm sure I will soon enough. Can't wait to have it on wrist.
Your videos are always on the up and up,what you truly think and why. one can't help but Appreciate that.keep them coming and thank you for the kind words.
The combination with the Ostrich strap is beautiful. I also wish the hands were blue. Hard not to put the trigger ;)
Thank you for this great presentation!
Very atractive piece. Agree regarding the blued hands - if it had that, it would be added to my procurement plan... Thanks for sharing!
Great. I was hoping that only few will notice this FC release, so by the time I'm able to purchase it, there will still be some left. But after this vid its gonna be sold out everywhere. Thanks tgv. Thanks bud. 🙄 Appreciate your eagerness. Truly.
Thanks for the great content! Will you be doing another update video on a Day-date?
Earlier this year I got Aquastar's model 60 reissue which also uses the La Joux-Perret G100. I haven't had it long but it does seem to be a slightly better movement than the 2824 or sw200. The power reserve is much longer and also more accurate. It's a cool change of pace from the eta and selita movements to you find in everything these days.
I really love the intro music! The FC is nice too 🙂I'm wearing the Lionshark! Great video, cheers my friend.
Thank you. I just purchased the 25J Frederique Constant Automatic.
Excellent work. Your watch knowledge has come a long way
A watchmaker/dealer told me to always choose ETA movements over Sellita. Any thoughts?
Oooo bold title T! Looking forward to what you have to say. When it comes to underrated gems, you're the best at finding them ofc. I think Longines' heritage collection are incredible bang for buck tho. The sector dial and tuxedo chrono are pure class, both going into the art deco and you i both love so much.
What about Mido (Swatch conglomerate) for a quality entry level swiss watch which rises above the mass cheap production of the logines, tissot, hamilton fold?
I bought an fc thin quartz 35 mm on sale, 75 pct off. At first, I thought it too small, but in formal attire, it's the perfect dress watch and 35 mm is just right. This new fc is excellent, too.
What can I say but pure, followed by class. Outstanding choice, thank you my friend.
Best regards,
TGV
As an owner of a 61 Seamaster there is no contest. It still runs like a dream.
Great, classy show. 👍
Hi, I want to buy FC Classics Automatic and wanted to know if its better than PRX Automatic ?
I don't mind the premise of the modular/machine regulated movements. I think that was an inevitable direction for lower end Swiss watchmaking. What I don't know is how easily one can determine which watches are machine-assembled. Is Swatch Group making that information easily available alongside standard specifications? IMO they should, yet I doubt they do. (So glad TGV is educating people about it!) Swatch Group's machine-regulated movements are souvenirs of craft, not craft itself. Souvenirs have their place. Depending on the price and the reason I want the watch, maybe it's OK. But, if someone buys a mechanical watch because they are sustainable and long-lasting, a machine-assembled movement (at least how they are achieved today) misses that mark.
Keeping up with the Philistines and no new money vulgarity. You're a master of words and class sir
I tried on that very same Freddie Constant during a cruise recently and it's one of those models that's way better in hand and on wrist, pictures don't do it justice, very nice piece. Count me among the uncouth fans of the Powermatic as well, or maybe it's just that I like the models so much - really digging my Tissot Gentlemans (green and silver) and Hamilton Jazzmaster. They're not just robust and accurate, that movement is incredibly consistent, in other words running the exact same plus or minus every day in all conditions. I do enjoy regulating other brands I own, I totally get that as well. But the Powermatics are so solid they don't need it. I really dig that turtle that did a quick cameo by the way, nice pick up!
Hello I’m planing to buy a Tissot gentlemen is there a different between quality and finishing compared to FC?thank you !
I recently had the NH35A movement replaced in my Invicta Grand Diver on the advice of my watch servicde people. The watch remains mine in every way that counts. It is similar to replacing the filling system on a fountain pen. Speaking of watches, do you have any opinion of Jean Marcel watches of Switzerland?
I couldn’t agree with you more, fantastic video, thank you. I treated myself to one of these with a solid 18k gold case and have never regretted it one iota. It’s a delight to hear you echo all the points that I also thought when I bought mine, especially the 18th century dial reference which gives me pleasure every time I look at it. It keeps superb time, I set it once a week and frequently the time is spot-on which is saying something for a mechanical movement. I’m one of those strange people who thinks that quartz movements aren’t real as I want the history that comes with a mechanical movement - okay, I know it’s not as accurate, but call me old fashioned, it’s important to me to wear history on my wrist and quartz movements just leave me cold.
Good Lord. Those close up shots of the FC are stunning. And how did I miss the juxtaposition of the Titanic and the Enterprise D in the background until now? Thank you as always for the entertaining and erudite content.
Thank You TGV For saying about the Swatch Groups powermatic movement And all it's variants What I have been saying since they came out! You are much more able to Influence the Industry than some nobody like Myself! You add class and Knowledge to any subject You adress!
Where is that giant swatch wall clock from? Super cool!
Would love to see a review for the FC highlife chronograph panda or the blue panda been thinking about buying one for a while now
Great video as usual. Speaking for myself: I'm not feeling the FC design in any way or form. It's too vintage for me. I do enjoy my Hamilton (Interstellar) and Tissot PRX a lot. Also love my Goldeneye Combat Sub..
The Urban Gentry - thank you for touching on the point of movements that are replaced when a watch is serviced.
I believe this is the practice even for Tudor and Rolex, since those movements are made by robots and CNC machines rather than old-school stamping and milling.
In my view, maybe only Glashütte Original and JLC make watches with movements serviceable for decades ahead.
Any thoughts on this?
I know you’ve long sold the Stowa Maritime, but this FC does remind me of it somewhat. The rail track, the Roman numerals, the large crown etc. I bought the Stowa after your amazing video - and still love it!
Great video as always. I really wish FC the best. In my opinion They need only one thing - identity. FC borrow many things from other brands (Breguet hands /slim line reminds me LS Saxonia, and highlife line VC 222). They do it in safiscitated way, but I don't see FC yet.
Wonderfully made video. Thank you for sharing this information with us, considering there isn’t much out there on this particular model. Cheers! 🦉⌚️
@urbangentry could you look into the Tom ford 001 watch. Your opinion for price.
Great to hear from you TGV,
What a cracking watch! I definitely agree with you! So much more class and quality then any general mid-tier watches you have discussed like Hamilton And Tissot!
Thank you so much for another great video! Love the intro!
Ps. Jeeves and Wooster is also one of my favorite classic movies!
Stay healthy and well as always!
Your watch enthusiast, (Nicholas L) ⏱️⏱️⏱️👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻🦖🦖🦖🥂🥂🥂🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹
What-o Nicolas! Thank you my friend! 😎🥂
Stay health too, always great to hear from you.
Best as always,
TGV
I always find TGV content to be the best on the web. Your knowledge and format are always fascinating and entertaining in a fabulously sophisticated manner.
What was the name of the BBC television show featured in this video?
Do you make that”deep connection “ with your modern Casio’s? And please show us how you regulate one? Free independent reviews are only beneficial when not hypocritical !
Great vid TGV, Very nice watch, The dial reminds me a bit of a TISSOT Chemin Des Tourelles, which I am a fan of too.
I’m glad to hear TGV highlight the G100. I notice it being moved into some microbrand watches in the $1k range. For instance, Farer has stopped using the sw-200 in their Three-Hand series and replaced it with the G100. I might be off the rails here, but it feels like the G100 is making the SW-200 obsolete.
Your vids are the best on the web!
As you've said before style and fashion are to complety different things, style is eternal. Have a wonderful New year
Is the stowa 36mm marine classic with Roman numerals a worthy contender over the FC?
Thank you TGV for another over-produced video with rare conceptual content which attempts to give us some insights into how you precive modern, mass produced watches. I share your views that many of these watches are not nearly 'special' enough when churned out in such numbers in totally automated mega factories, to be desireable keepsakes.
Just a small technical point regarding the 80 hour power reserve; the longer reserve was accomplished by lenghting the mainsping. To do this the barrel arbour was made smaller & the spring was made thinner. As a consequence, the torque of the spring was lower, so the beat rate had to be reduced. Apparently the accuracy beyond 24 hours was maintained at a high level. Cheers and all the best in '24.😊😊
What is that James Bond sounding intro music? Where is it from?
I think the point about "non-serviceability" is not as big a deal as people make it. How a movement is serviced by the manufacturer just isn't that big a deal; you think anyone is servicing Seiko movements that cost $30 to replace? Yet you and many others sing their praises. Even Tudor reportedly replaces movements when serviced. As long as the watch itself can be serviced then it's fine. The low beat rate Swatch movements can absolutely be regulated and serviced, and even if replaced, they are compatibile with basic and common ETA movements. The watches are totally fine.
'Black Mirror, keeping up with the Philistines, Tick-Tocking reality'. Love it mate. Spot on 😆
Well done quality content here. Thank you, I’m subscribed!
I have a LJP movement in my Synchron Ice Diver. It’s pretty good. Ok winding feel and some rotor wobble, but the extra power over the 2824 is much appreciated. It feels like many watch brands put in-house movements in their watches these days, and then expect you to send the watch back to them to service. Sometimes the movement isn’t serviceable 🫣This isn’t the case with LJP and I love that 👍
i just love your down to earth approach to watch ownership. personally, i wear watches like i stole them and so they get beat up really good.
I LOVE that this watch has a proper sized movement instead of one of those weird tiny ones with the micro display caseback.
That is an amazing time piece. Thanks for sharing it.
That's a beautiful FC. Agree that lighter blue would be great.
Interesting discussion TGV! I had my Seiko 5 SNK809 serviced by Seiko, and it cost more than I paid for the watch. I'm pretty sure they replaced the entire movement, but it didn't bother me. The case and crystal are what have scuffs and scratches, which reflects my history with the watch 🙂
I was taught to Appreciate watches from the opposite direction that you do!
Why on earth would you pay that much for Servicing!
@@davidcrandall4958 that's a fair question, and one I debated on for close to a year before going through with it. The SNK809 was my first automatic watch, and I wore it during some important times in my life. I debated purchasing a new one since I love the design, but then I'd still have the first one which would just sit broken. So I decided to have it serviced, and now I'm able to wear it. When I look at whatever watch I'm wearing, it is not only to tell the time, but to also look at the watch. When I look at that watch, it makes me smile 🙂
@@Joe_Serious Enjoy your watch ! That's a very good Reason!Best Regards!
I'm always looking forward to see how you bring based content to the watch world in a masterfully subversive fashion. Your videos are full of references, objects, words of wisdom that bring hope and inspiration to many men and all that is done mostly under the radar of the power that be. Well done, TGV and thank you.
You are leading the watch enthusiasm indeed👌 I have one question.. What do you think about Frederique Constant Junior? I own it for 3 years and nobody knows about it. It has same dial measurements as 38,5mm, something grey dial colour, looks very special to me. There are some cons, like very small crown etc. but i like it. Regards👋🏻
Longtime fan of your channel. Recent fan of the Franciscan crucifix and the statue of Our Lady in the apartment. Thumbs up!
May I know the name of the book of watches....Thanks :)
Finally FC gets some deserved recognition
👏👏👏👏 YESSSSSSSS.
Thank you,
Best regards,
TGV
The Willard! Fantastic watch for any collection!