Proxima Goes Dark! PX1697 2023 Edition. Is this the Best Watch you can Buy on AliExpress?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 8 ก.ย. 2024
- A few months ago I reviewed the Proxima PX1697 in White. I was VERY impressed. Never before had I seen such attention to detail on a watch at around £200. It nearly won The Best Dive Watch challenge I held a month or so after that. Now Proxima have went dark with new colours on offer including the jet black version in this review. The Proxima PX1697 2023 edition (or version 2) has an improved clasp and the logo has been stylistically changed. Often you will hear reviewers stating their watch is the best watch on AliExpress without much substance.
I do believe however that this is the best watch you can buy on AliExpress as it has all the attributes you could ever want, all put together in a beautifully designed and impeccably finished case.
Watch my Proxima PX1697 2023 edition Review and see what you think of this beautiful 39mm diver!
Buy the Proxima PX1697 2023 edition via the following AliExpress Affiliate link:
s.click.aliexp...
You will not be charged extra for this purchase but you will be helping to support the channel going forward. Thank you for your support :)
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I bought the black one as soon as it was released. I really liked the case design of the white one, but i prefer a black dial diver as my daily. So as soon as they released it i had to get it.
If you are considering this watch, don't hesitate. It is absolutely stunning and wears so well. The best daily driver watch i have ever owned. Thin, not too heavy, good dimensions, beautiful but still sporty, and looks good with anything.
Well said...I am pinning this for its positivity :)
@@johnswatchjoint great review. Your original review of the white version helped convince me.
It looks stunning and no unicorn . I was going for a San Martin but now I am not sure . With SM their case and bracelet finishing can be too sharp apparently. Is this one smooth ? Do you find SM finishing very sharp ?
thank you
Steve
@@stevehenrytagami4709 no the case and bracelet have no sharp edges whatsoever. Very smooth finish to all the steel parts. I do not have any San martin watches but I have heard about the sharp edges. I can only compare this to Cronos, and finishing is even better than the Cronos (which is also very good).
Loving the vintage vibe with the dial, and what is offered for the price puts most Microbrands to shame. What a fantastic job Proxima.
Not just microbrands!
Agreed 👍
Vintage…most all watches look just about the same, just minor superficial differences. Tell me, please, what is vintage vs. current style?
@@mitchellsumpter4807Modern style would be like a G Shock, ani-digi, maybe Dickie Miles, HYT, or Ressence.
I agree about everything being vintage. Almost all of watchdom is obsessed with about 75 years of history, design and is content to reissue and remix the same designs over and over.
Oh man, this black version looks so much better than the white dial I have. Love the shade of yellow they used against the black, it’s such a classy look.
Hi Harvind. It is a beauty. It's almost perfect... save a couple of font issues but what you get for the price far outweighs those quirks. ( Will be in touch soon as I hope to finally finish the cabin over the next couple of days) ;)
I asked Proxima for a customized version with a meteorite dial, dauphine hands and a blued second hand. The combination (indexes are bar/kitkat style) makes the watch more sparkly and dressy. It’s the watch I grab the most over the last few months. So comfortable and thin. Well done by Proxima!
And not to forget, thanks for a great review!
I would love to see that. Send me a pic on my email...you'll find it under About tab. Would love to share it if that is ok
I would like to see that watch. I love meteorite dials.
@@johnswatchjointhi, John, did you ever get the pictures of that customized meteorite dial of this watch? If so can you share a picture please
It's an Aliexpress watch! This competes with similar watches at much higher prices than $260. A Lorier for $$, a Baltic for $$$, a CW for $$$$ the price, an Oris Diver65 for (who knows)?
Every version gets better.
Swiss made products are no to any better than Chinese watches with Japan or China Malaysia. All are excellent in my experience.
Paying thousands of dollars for nothing other than a rim on your wrist.
What a stunner John! Rivalling and exceeding far more expensive brands for quality. Great to see subscribers increasing, very well deserved 👍👍
Thank you Rich. Keep the comments coming ;)
I have this with the blue sapphire dial with blue/orange bezel.
It clearly is inspired by CW, but dimensions, dial, bezel and hands are original Proxima.
The case form is the best I have ever come across (I have approx 40 watches).
This black dial is a stunner!
I know the one you have. Very nice. Yeah I just love this simplistic dial.
It looks much more expensive than the price suggests. Really, it looks impressive. It has a touch of finesse about it too.
I have white dial for two month now and it is my every day watch, before it was seiko alpinist black dial but now I am rocking Proxima and I still love it. Grate watch best on Ali for sure. Also Proxima customer care is second to non in all Aliexpres.....
Nice Peter, and you are right, the customer service is the best on AliExpress !
Agreed! I’ve had the same experience with Proxima…and it’s more worn (with a meteorite dial) than my Seiko Alpinist 1959 blue lake that also has a stunning dial 😮
Extremely appealing skindiver watch. Design cues from ORIS (case, bezel) and Squale (handset)... The dot markers remind me of a Blancpain Bathyscaphe. If you're going to borrow design cues from other watches, it may as well be from the best parts of them.
Proxima has a few nice models, but sometimes their "UNICORN" logo stands out like a sore thumb. they made a good choice leaving it off of this one.
Thanks for your insightful comments. Remember to subscribe 😀
I love both the white and black. Beautiful case design, polishing, and thickness. I think it may be my next.
Great choice Adam. If you do put one in your basket, wait until the 11th in case Proxima issues any coupons or actively discounts anything. It would be unusual but you never know...!
I'm trying to choose between the black and white, it's really difficult. I would go for black, I don't like the faux patina as much on the black. The white seems... cleaner if you know what I mean, the indices are off white.
If you had to choose one as a travel GADA watch, which would it be? I only have blue and green divers lol so either color would be welcome.
I loved the original white version (bought it) Loved it so much I was ready to buy almost any new color they came up with sight unseen, but I can't decide if I like the new Blue (dateless) or Black dial version. Not crazy about faux patina or the font of the date wheel so I'm leaning Blue ... If it weren't so much like my CW Aquataine ... But that Black dial looks so damn nice! ... I'm leaning Black again ... Arrrrg!
Uh oh...itchy trigger finger alert!
I'm with you on this one. Super!
Thanks Mark. It's on my wrist now :)
Just simply my favorite watch on Ali Express.
A stunning time piece, very well crafted. Its the first time i see this watch, im new to the hobby. I love the hands, simple yet elegant. And the date at 6 is great for a change. Great vids, congrats on your milestone, keep up the good work.
Thank you for taking the time to comment. Remember to subscribe :)
Nice looking watch for sure. I have a couple too many watches in this general ballpark but for the price... if I wanted something a bit more sporty than the San Martin or Tisell Explorer homages and less sporty/field than the SWC Bunker that have become three of my favorites, this would be way up there on my list.
I'm inclined to agree with you , not a lot that offers that much at the price regardless of where you shop... & it does wear well on you. I was impressed first time round as with the xi&doa ipose and its difficult not to notice the quality of some of these pieces be it "homage" or not & as much as i rate Citizen, Orient etc the above mentioned leave one with little argument bar brand cache . An honest and well rounded review John.
Thanks Ted. The review was not planned until I saw the colour!
I really like that crystal, it adds to the interesting looks, gives some depth to it. They've really done a great job with this model.
They certainly have.
Great video, TY for posting. I got the white PX1697 last year (b/c... "Limited edition" lol) and absolutely love it. It's a great vintage skindiver with an outstanding enamel, symmetrical dial, nice simple hands and a good motor.
Between it, my black Islander Bayport, my black modded Orient Mako II, and my grey Sinn 104... Throw in the black and the white SD1972 Willards... Like, I have what I need, but I legit want this black proxima. Hell, I want to get another white one to wear on straps 🤷🏼 Same for the PD1701 (???) Speed- the supplied brac is decent, but it'd be great on NATOs also. At 75.00 USD, why not?
Anyway, since I got that Sinn I haven't been giving my Proxima the proper amount of wrist time, and in a way I like it as much or more (ok, as much but for different reasons) bc of the slim ceric bezel insert & dial symmetry.ight have to go for this new black 9ne to round things out (literally the EXACT reason I got the grey Sinn... I already have black watches, lol) 💸💸💸
Edit: Oh yeah, what do I think? This one is real dime. Executed to near perfection. Could do w/o the quick release lug bars, though, those make me a bit nervous. Probably will pick one up soon. Great heads-up 💯
Thanks for the detailed comments:)
Can’t believe this quality of finish.
Sooooooo much better than similar watch by CRISTOPER WARD.
Especially the case it’s not molded like CW did.
I own 3 CW watchs in my collection.
Love how they finish the case and the female end link which CW missed out on their bracelet.
There are a lot of CW vibes both in the dial and case, no bad thing, and other Proxima watches have similar cues. Best is a big claim but they have made a very nice watch.
Just my personal take having handled all the big guns on Ali. This would be my choice for versatility and quality :)
Banging watch, John, and a cracking review. Glad to hear you so made up about it. Cheers 🍻!
Thanks David ☺️
It's a very nice and well made symmetrical watch, sort of a one watch collection. I would have liked to see the green fumé version, I find that particularly appealing. But you're the only reviewer I know who loves an unsigned crown mate! 😄
Hey Alexander. When I discussed options with Proxima I mentioned I liked both colours but I had already reviewed the white version. When the next batch came in I decided it was black! When it comes to crowns I like certain styles to be plain. Some must have a logo. I think this one suits being blank. More streamlined. :)
I had the same thought. I liked all of those positive reviews of the white dial so i waited for more colors. But now i see the PX 1701 with this same case, I think, and blue and orange .Skeleton dial. Christopher Ward Sapphire homage and I'm going for that.
That is nice but just a bit busy for my middle aged eyes 👀 haha!
Yes, i'm 45 this year. But there has nobody covered it on youtube,, i think. These are perfect specs, for me. It's a keeper.
Yes this one is going on my wishlist! Stunner! Great dimensions and lookings. Is this a hommage?
To Christopher Ward. But it is going its own thing :)
Excellent video John, with some great photography. I love white dial watches and am planning to buy the white dial Proxima in the upcoming sale. The black version looks good but I am not a fan of the fauxtina look, so it's not for me. If Proxima ever decide to bring out a black version with modern white coloured lume on the hands and indices I will snap one of those up in a heartbeat! I love what Proxima are doing. Well built watches with interesting designs at reasonable prices, and great customer service.
Totally agree with all of that! Thanks for watching :)
Great video John and well done on all the new subscribers.
Now I really like that Watch I will have to try and bag one subject to funds.
Hi Jon. Remember to put in your basket and wait till the 11th Sale...you never know! :)
Seriously considering this watch, but in the white dial which IMO brings the dial out a bit more than the Black dial. Both are beautiful though 👍
They are very good watches but other models use the same case so check Proxima out or have a look at my Proxima playlist. Just got a Serica homage by Proxima with the same case but with personalised logo. See my community section posts :)
Well crap. That just kept getting better and better. I liked it on the bracelet but then you showed it on the strap and I liked it better and then you showed it on the next strap and it got even better. I have never heard of this brand. It works fantastic. That dark color scheme is great.
Have just spoken to Proxima and I believe leaving it in your basket would would be a great idea hypothetically ;)
@@johnswatchjoint hey John. I’ve read some mixed opinions on the movement. Specifically how it holds up over time with the hand winding. Granted this is a newer movement and no one has ten years experience with it but thought I’d ask, what’s your take on it? Do you hand wind yours often or try to avoid manually winding?
There is a chap I really trust here called The Watcher and he has a lot of experience with Proxima and how they put this movement together. That combined with my experience with customer service and the whole ordering process gives me every confidence in this movement. Other manufacturers will do anything to dissuade you from buying their products. What might have been true years ago does not hold up when care and attention AND proper regulation of the movement is done prior to shipping. I have no worries :)
Thanks John for this excellent review. I own two Proxima watches. The shown watch would be an instant buy with a NH35 and a change of the font type of the date wheel.
Great review! Id Love to see a Thorn vs Proxima comparison. Maybe add San Martin in for a 3rd comparison.
This watch in white was already in my Scuba skirmish and fared very well against SM and Seestern. Unfortunately Thorn are not quite in the same league but are very impressive for their price point.
Very impressive looking time piece.
This is a great drsign!
I have the PX1701, that is another Christopher Ward homage. It has the same specs as this one but is lots more niche. The CW Sapphire,. I got the blue sceleton dial with orange bezel. I would appreciate if some channel would review it. Even thogh i know you are not that into those leftfield versions but it needs to be reviewed. I have one. But this one i am longing for in a near future.
Sorry I cannot review everything and I do like it but I then have to move it on after purchasing and niche watches are difficult.
if the date window matched either the dial or the indices i would pay right now🤷🏻♂️
Hi John, just found your watch channel. Didn't see the previous Proxima review, but agree, I can't find fault with this one! Looks great!
Hi buddy. Thanks for watching. Remember to subscribe :)
of course I did.
I have just a few minor gripes with this watch. (i) They could fix some of the fonts ("Automatic" and date wheel font) - those of us that are "font-sensitive" will immediately feel these to be out of place. (ii) The minute and hour hands are a bit too similar for my liking (style and width). But overall this looks to be an amazing watch at an amazing price.
Everyone is individual and has different tastes. ;)
@@johnswatchjoint The rest of this watch is so good that I'm always tempted by this despite the gripes (add black date wheel to the list of gripes, especially with fauxtina indices) ... but I'm going to hold out waiting to see if they one day bring the same font game to this that they did to the MM300
I'm a huge Proxima fan and I'm so glad these colors turned out so well Now I'm just trying to decide on which color to add to the collection I wear my white dial variant probably every other day It's a strap monster as well Really appreciate you sharing the great reviews Keep em coming my friend Thanks as always 👍
Hi Michael. Thanks for sharing a d thanks for your kind words 😊
I just ordered the blue version. Thank you for yet another concise and interesting video John. You have a great gift of detail.
Thank you Clay. Send me pics of the blue one when you get it. I would like to see how it looks for real. You will find my email in the about tab :)
hi, does the blue version have the color difference between the hour hands and the numeral markers?
The shade of white on hour hands and numeral markers appears to be the same
John: Great review BUT why is no one talking about that WHITE DATE WHEEL. Color matched on the White but sticks out badly here. It seems to be the only miss on an otherwise very appealing watch..
Depends on your point of view ..positive or negative. I think the watch remains balanced but the font is dubious 😐
Thank you John for a wonderful review. I absolutely love this watch, but have stayed away because I'm afraid of the PT5000 in terms of reliability, and hate to pay the additional premium for the SW200 which I adore, but at the higher price tag there are other strong choices.... I hear good things about the PT5000, as a matter of fact I was gifted a watch which contains this movement and it has been running really well during the couple of months I have owned this watch. I also hear the Proxima does a phenomenal job with the PT5000 movements. I may take the chance and order one..... thank you again and congrats on the growth of the channel. Great job my friend 👏 👍
Thanks Felo. Proxima are hands down my most trusted brand on Ali. The service I have received thus far has been the best of any retailer ANYWHERE. They build your watch and show you images prior to sending it out, along with time grapher results.
If you don't handwind it you have nothing to worry about. Just give it a shake when you need to wind it. Pretty much all pt5000 issues are from handwinding.
I have the black one and it is STUNNING. And like John said they send you a picture of your exact watch before sending including on a timegrapher
@Johns Watch Joint That's fantastic, thank you for letting me know John. Cheers
@Pravin S Thank you so much Pravin for your feedback, I really appreciate it. Be well 👍
My white dial is terrific.... the p5000 is a must add on!
I wish they'd make a smaller one!
Black dial looks awesome and vintage. But I ordered the white one with V2 logo as I need a white dial in my collection :D
Nice. You won't be disappointed ;)
This watch is stunning, definitely on my sights for the next sale.
Nice watch but I would have preferred the indices in white and the numbers on the bezel as well. But all in all a very nice timepiece. Nice review
In it's design, simplicity and build quality it is an amazing watch. Diver and dress watch at the same time. What I don't like is the font in the date window. Is it so difficult to print a suitable font on the date wheel? My typographer's soul is slightly hurt.
Haha. It is a common comment :)
Now I have seen it too. 🙂
But all in all, a beautiful watch, I will probably buy it anyway.
Do like both the black and the Green versions better. Might be because, to me, It goes better with the rather thin bezel. Regards
To me the white was very good but I have never been a fan of lighter coloured watches...I always prefer metallic dark blues or dark silvers or blacks...this watch just oozes class and wears superbly.
I don’t know but since it’s a diver’s watch, Proxima should have added the water resistance below the “automatic”. Good looking watch though. And, great review as always.
When I spoke with Proxima they were looking for a clean aesthetic. I think it has the right balance. Thank you for your kind words 🙏
My 'Reach for' watch is a Invicta (yhyh...shutup lol) 9937ob Pro-Diver, not the cheapo Seiko powered Jobbietho, Sellita Sw-200-1, thinner depth case @12mm, better bracelet with fully solid links and semi-milled clasp,, much better than the Cheaper version and only $180, I honestly love this watch, it's fantastic for the price....reach for it every morning. (got others too, but this is my work horse)
Often maligned but many swear by it. Thanks for sharing 🙏
@@nemoomen4484 the new ones don't have 'swiss made' on the dial, but it does have "swiss Movement" on the back, like you say, finding the swiss made ones.. hard now, but if you're ever interested in these ones Jomashop have them in for $170.. I absolutely adore this watch lol.. had rolexes Omegas etc etc but this one for some reason has really struck a note with me
@@nemoomen4484 think they have the swiss quartz versions too.. can't remember if they're "swiss made" or not tho lol.
I've been enjoying the Proxima PX1697 in white. One feature that Proxima has that I think is a nice touch is the capped pinion. It looks great, yet you rarely see it at any price. Could it raise issues if the watch needs service?
Hi and thanks for reaching out. It would not be of concern to any properly qualified watch service professional...if it is then walk away :)
Another great video ! I love the watch but I think I’m going to have to buy some different words for the dial.automatic is a no-go,I think I would rather it say quartz😅
I think you’ve sold it to me John.
Nice balance of old and new.
Going for £168 right now in the sale.
Wow. That's a very good price. Snap it up. Well done 👍
Nice one John. I don't know but somehow it remindes me of a Chistofer Ward C60. Case finishing looks great. Too much reflection IMHO on the crystal though and the date window looks a bit like an afterthought.
It is a homage to Christopher Ward of sorts but the lugs remind me of my father's old Omega with that turn down. Sure it has a couple of quirks but there is so much quality on show for the money it deserved another review on this colour. Thanks for watching :)
Super Watch !!!!
I love it except for the yellowish indecies, pure white would have been perfect.
Hi John, I subscribed! Any chance you could talk Proxima into making a Christopher Ward C65 Dune GMT homage? They're almost there with the PX1697, they just need an inner bezel and red GMT hand. I'm sure it'd sell really well.
Also, CW saw their sales increase when they went with just their logo on the dial. Maybe Proxima could go that route too? (they do have an hourglass silhouette logo which could look actually cool on their dials)
Just a couple of thoughts.
Keep up the good videos John!
Hi John. I do get on with Proxima very well but they really like to hear from buyers direct and do take things on board. Let them know your thoughts 🤔 :)
Beautiful watch, i can't decide between the white and black dial.
...I bought them both haha!
@@johnswatchjoint do you still prefer the black one? I'm leaning towards white, but it's a hard choice 😅
Of the two the white is more striking. I just like black watches. You won't be disappointed with either. Even the green and the blue versions look great. Just look at subscribers photos on my community tab !)
Own some watches with Pt5000 movement so far no any problem
Me neither :)
Great video as usual my friend. A beautiful piece. Could have done with a colour matched date wheel. Otherwise a very well put together piece.
Thanks Ian 🙂
Wow! Nice review 😀
Thank you :)
A no date version with same markers at 3,6,9 a possibility?
Great review. Tempt me no further!
Oops...sorry ;)
Maybe a thing. The date wheel? Looks better in black?
I think white balances the watch with the triangle being elongated on the opposite side?
Hi there, Thank you very much. New sub here... You make absolutely great reviews. I had never seen this watch. It's really really beautifull. Damn it, it ticks all the boxes for my next watch. 😅. Keep up the good work. Cheers from Denmark
Hi there. Thanks for your kind comments and thanks for watching and subscribing. Welcome aboard from Scotland! ;)
Okay, John, you earned my subscription, your reviews are fantastic, and I love your choices of watches to review! I almost pulled the trigger on the version of this watch with the sword hands and blue [snowflake] dial, but I just couldn't get over the snowflake images on the dial. THIS one, however, pushes my hot buttons. I love the black dial, and especially the fact that Proxima matched the color tone of the indices to the hands (which they missed on the white dial version). Also love the fact they offer half-links, for neurotic collectors such as myself that like to wear watches a little snug! I'm very curious about one thing, however.... do you think the Malinese metal strap from the iPose 5303 would fit on this watch? I'd be appreciative if you could let me know, since I love that bracelet, and I know you own both watches. Thanks again...keep up the good work! You'll be at 10k subscribers before you know it!
Hi there Dayne and thanks for your kind words and of course your subscription. Unfortunately the bracelet will not quite fit even though the sizes look as though they will there are subtle differences which do not allow for it...such as hole positions for the spring-bars and lug shape and length. Tis the way of the world my friend. If you are going to pull the trigger on the Proxima I would put it in your basket and wait a week for the sale...I believe they are taking part this year. Fingers crossed. :)
@@johnswatchjoint Hey thanks for your quick response, really appreciate it. Its unfortunate it won't fit, but its still a fantastic deal. Thanks for the heads up on the sale, I'll be on the lookout!
No problem my friend :)
Perfect if they did the date in black/white.
I have some black dial divers, I love the Seiko Samurai black. Anyway, beautiful vintage look diver, I particullary like the thin bezels. How do you compare this one againts the Phoibos Reef Master or the new Orient Mako 40?
They really are not like for like. Not really impressed with Phoibos in general. Although their build quality is excellent, I always find their dials flat and rather uninspiring. I have had three models and did not have them long. Regarding Orient Mako 40 I have no idea what that is as the naming conventions with Orient are all mixed up. Are you referring to the new Mako lll that I reviewed a couple of months back?
Definitely an improvement. Cheers.
Thanks Barry :)
but... what does Christopher Ward say, about?!? that's a CW Light Catcher case... except for the clasp, that's the CW bracelet! :-D incredible...
Of course it isn't but they have manufactured something very pleasing that pays homage to it. It is incredible :)
Stunning watch, it reminds me of a Christopher Ward.
Spot on John ;)
I like this one, great aesthetic 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Yeah I was heart-broken first time round as I loved the aesthetic but white wasn't for me....but when I saw it in black I was all - in :)
Ooh That's a beauty. I like both colours. Off I pop to Ali Express again haha
It is rather special.. the title is exactly what I feel about this watch ;)
The case profile is super too. Reminds me of christopher ward
Remember to put it in your basket and wait to see if you get any discount come the big sale on the 11th June 😉
Oh yes It's already in the basket. Meant to say i love the Capped seconds hand too.
Now this I really like I’ve been looking at Oris 65 divers this week and this is very close especially in the Green can I ask who delivered your package John was it Royal Mail or one of the courier companies? Great review as usual
If you removed watch snobbery , this watch and others like it would be on the wrists of millionaires .great review as normal my friend.
Thanks Darren. Watch snobbery is a curse for sure!
A beautiful watch. Only 2 issues for me... That branding is not elegant or sporty for the rest of the watch. Proxima needs to find a strong logo.
The date wheel font is just..... Awful. A classic script when a modern font is needed on such a watch.
Would buy this right now if not for those issues.
I do agree but as a watch it is stunning for the price. I will be in contact with Proxima as they really do listen to feedback :)
Looks like they're homaging light catcher Christopher Wards design features
Well spotted ;)
If they would just put a date wheel in this with a font that actually matches the rest of the watch, I'd buy it. As it sits, it would drive my watch OCD nuts! lol
Ah well. It is a quirk but for what it is its too hard to pass :)
Oris Diver 65 ish?
Their take on a Christopher Ward bit I see the vibe :)
I'm just off the fence with the movement they used.
Proxima are the best brand you can deal with. They know how to lubricate, operate and regulate these movements. Before purchase they even show you images of the watch, the Lume and the watch on a timegrapher before shipping it out once you are happy. The best customer support anywhere :)
Which factory is this made by? Which website did you order from, please?
The affiliate links are in the description below the video :)
Black doesn't seem to be available now? 😞
It is but it's more expensive due to low quantities and higher demand.
s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_EGoV95v
@@johnswatchjoint aha, thank you 🙂
Is the quality on par with San Martin?
Definitely...and better customer service!
Is it better than de sn004 g limites edition from San Martin? I love mine but Im looking for a second watch
Hi Alejandro. The Sn004g is a great watch on its own. The Proxima would be a perfect partner. In terms of pure quality of finish the Proxima is better...but that is only my opinion having seen both side by side :)
One thing that is not in doubt though is the Proxima customer service...it is the best you will get on AliExpress.
@@johnswatchjoint In my opinion, the only thing that would improve of San Martin would be the dial it seems very plane. How about the Proxima's bracelet, is it on par or better than San Martin?
Better...especially as it has twin quick release triggers.
@@johnswatchjoint Im ordering today, thank you!
...a blue AR-coating on a black dial is a NOGO... and the round indices are way too big... a pity...
Ah well ... can't please everyone :)
Nice watch, I guess, but that white date wheel really ruins the overall look...
It is a quirk but the watch outshines it :)
@@johnswatchjoint Yeah, maybe, but coupled with those fauxtina hands and indices, it really sticks out rather sorely...
Can't please everyone though it seems you are in the minority here :)
@@johnswatchjoint I usually am, haha. Most people just gush over everything, regardless of flaws or defects.
Well I am not most people. I am very fair in my reviews and having handled a bunch of watches from AliExpress, this is the best looking and best made watch in my honest opinion. But of course that is only my opinion and I also appreciate yours :)
Any discount codes for this watch?
Sorry buddy. Travelling back from holiday. Check their listing.
@@johnswatchjoint no worries, thanks
What watch is this a homage to ?
Christopher Ward
@@johnswatchjoint 🙏
You say this is "Omega-esque", I say this is "all Christopher Ward" 😅😂
Ah ok so I am not allowed to say what I see then?
It's basically a C65 Aquataine dial in a C60 Trident case. 👍🏼
Absolutely but the turn down reminded me of my Dads' sold Omega too
@@johnswatchjoint absolutely! It definitely has shades of Omega. I've not had an Omega, but I own 3 CWs and when I got my first one I immediately thought they had modelled the light catcher case on a Casio EFV-110 🤣🤣🤣. I suspect CW knew what they were doing and followed the case profile of Omega when they came up with it.
Glad to see they removed the unicorn. You mentioned a ghost date but it actually has a date at 6, great review otherwise.
Yeah my bad it was late in the afternoon and I was flagging haha. Apologies. Always someone ready to nitpick :)
Not nitpicking just pointing it out in case someone misses the date window as it is quite small.
This watch has a single problem. Most people already have the black diver.
Not sure I understand...this colour is new in this range?
@@johnswatchjoint My point was that the average watch fan already has a random diver and that random diver is almost always black. That diver could be Seiko, San Martin, Cronos or anything else but people usually buy black diver as the get a go watch.
@@unwokeneuropean3590 the feauxtina gives this one a unique look. And there's no problem with getting an even cooler black diver. I have 3 and I added this one as my 4th. And it is the only one I wear now.
Beautiful watch!!! I'd love to get it. Unfortunately 235.00 dollars might as well be 235 million at the moment lol! I don't own a Proxima but somehow this WILL be my first. It's very minimalist with a gorgeous dial. Thank you for bringing us a real cracker! Blessings from across the pond.
Thank you for your kind words. The big sale is coming up on the 11th June so put it in your basket for now and see what happens come the sale ;)
@@johnswatchjoint Oh yes!!! I forgot the sales coming up!! Sweet! Thanks for the reminder! Looking forward to the next one.
@@nemoomen4484 Appreciate the sentiment friend! The sales coming so I should be able to get it then! Peace and happiness to you.
Proxima no longer stock the oyster bracelets, they only have the ugly and outdated jubilee. Only one option.
It may look like that but have you asked? They are the best on Ali for customer service :)
@@johnswatchjoint I've asked via whatsapp from their official website, from the Aliexpress shop and even from taobao's official shop. They cited that it's no longer produced. They still use the same photos with the oyster bracelet for all their watches but it's no longer available. They don't have any alternatives either. Many customisations are out of stock and it gives me the feeling that they are closing and clearing inventory. What a pity
Hmmmm. I have a good relationship with them. I will ask :)
I have just spoken to my contact at Proxima Official Store. You have been misinformed. The only model that no longer ships with the Oyster Style is the MM300 homage. If you want a spare bracelet in Oyster Style he also does sell them. Contact him and say you have spoken to me ;)
If you get a chance can you review the Pagani Design pd 1766? I'm on the fence and respect your opinion. I'm sure you're busy so if not I get it. Blessings.
Pagani are not really on my radar as they have been very hit and miss for me. In this case the strength of the watch will be in the Seiko VK64 movement. To be fair the watches they sell with meca quartz are fine. The heads of the PD watches are usually done well but have terrible bracelets. I believe this one has a butterfly clasp which may be better but getting a good fit can be a problem. If you are planning on wearing it on a leather or NATO then you will be fine. Hope this helps.
@@johnswatchjoint It does... Thanks for taking the time! Above and beyond. Most TH-camrs don't even respond. Blessings for continuing success for your channel!
Thank you. Hopefully you gained something from my message.
Best regards from Scotland.