In my free time, I was a Dive instructor we talked 30-40 years ago with 1280 dives under my belt. I used only Seiko and Citizen which at that time cost 300 to 400US Dollar . They did the job and never let me down! If you are a serious diver, there is no need to buy a luxury Dive watch but some people have plenty of money to spend.
I know guys with $15k rebreather rigs that dive with the $400 Seiko that everyone buys on Amazon and that occasionally goes down close to $300. Some guys I know even go with the sub $100 Casio Duro. The Citizens eco drives are also popular. Currently what I own just because it's titanium and a little larger on my 8 inch wrist.
Subtle, dry humor paired with tons of information all wrapped up in a no-nonsense presentation. I cannot believe that this is „free content“. Amazing work Mike.
You nailed it Nils. Sitting here watching in Kathmandu 😮 Absolutely love Mike's channel and never miss an episode. Super quality insight and watch nerd presentation!
@patrik3450 Lol.... Yeah. I have unfortunately bought at retail too many times at the local AD. I'm sure I have a checkbox in their database that says "easy mark"... 😀😀😂 Was there to sell a watch and have them order something else that should join my collection in a couple of weeks time... 😀
I'm gonna sit quietly on the corner to listen because I don't even have 24 hours clean. I'm still under the influence of my last purchase this morning...
The only time I care about lume is when I'm in the movie theater. When I was in the Marine Corps we put tape over our watches to disguise the lume at night.
Another fantastic video, Mike. It warms my heart to see your number of subscribers gradually continue to rise day after day; you're absolutely killing it and your numbers reflect just that. Cheers from Texas.
Glad to hear you enjoy my vids. Been a while since I last was in Texas. I believe I was inebriated, lying on an inner tube floating down a river as far as I recall.... 😀
My beater dive watch is the Casio Duro (MDV106-1A). 200m, feels decent on the wrist, good bezel action. $50, reliable, and good on an actual dive. I’ve got other dive watches - Seiko, Christopher Ward, and Tudor… but my Duro is my beater. When I dive I wear my dive computer on one wrist, and my Duro on the other.
Amen to that. When I'm wearing my Duro I'm truely enjoy my watch because I don't really care what I'm doing, if it gets a scratch, whatever. And it feels like a million dollars on my wrist since I put it on a metal bracelet from Aliexpress...
As usual Mike did a fantastic job answering the question of why dive watches are so popular. Using the KIS approach I would add that dive watches are so popular because they are a true sports watch! Whether you wear a dive watch on land or swim in the pool or snorkel in the ocean or are a sports or professional diver, there is a watch for you. No other watch says "sporty" like a dive watch!
🤝 to me a sports watch means ‘numbers on the bezel’; chronos are a different variant - the sport is car racing. To me the APs & Patek Aquanauts are just sporty dress watches.
@@WestCoastAce27 FYI...they call it a sports watch because sports watches are tool watches. They were made for use, worn by athletes, adventurers or soldiers - or for timing the likes of athletic events and even scientific endeavors. They're watches of action. They were made to endure rough conditions.
Just bought a boring diver - the Tudor Pelagos 39 in titanium. Although it does not do anything different than the rest, it just checks all the boxes for me and fits my lifestyle. I guess that is exactly why this category is so popular as you said. Not risky and can be worn anywhere. It is just an easy choice.
I have mine for a year now and love it to bits. One of my most worn divers. I got the uncle straps jubilee titanium bracelet on it and it’s sooo cool. It is such a nice watch. It competes and holds up well with my other dive watches Blancpain Bathyscaphe, Breitling SuperOcean arrow hand (2009) and even my VC overseas…..
I think the Pelagos is doing something different. Lume plot markers, titanium, fixed lugs, the lumed bezel, matte ceramic bezel, and a few other design cues weren't very common when the watch was originally released.
You didn’t say ‘let’s dive in!’ 🤣 Great perspectives. Bond switching from the wet suit to the tux in Dr No in his Submariner set the diver up as the best all arounder. 139 days? That’s ridiculous. I’ve bought 3… or is it 4? 😀
I think most people don't dive with a Submariner, but I did. Dived all over the world for over 40 years with my beloved Subby. Looks as good now as it did when I bought it :)
As a dive master with over 4 decades of experience, I started out with a Seiko Capt. Willard, and other brands before going to dive computers. The lesson I learned early was the value of a crown guard after tearing the crown off of a Certina as I was gearing up for a dive.
It’s a joy to listen to your views. And it’s hard not to agree :). Personally, my divers are more in the entry level luxury or premium segment and my dress watches, chronographs and GMTs are higher-end. I’m just more comfortable with a slightly lower end diver. That being said, I do prefere my more expensive pieces to fly a bit under the radar, maybe that’s why I prefere dress/casual pieces at the higher end. Cheers from Portugal (just got back from Mozambique)
I agree with you about the Sinn Hydro having specs that are incredibly niche. That said, a standard U50 has unique looks (well, comparatively) and very good specs and is also very wearable (just 11mm thickness). I think Sinn should be applauded for that combination.
I have a U50 with a bracelet and I find myself wearing it more and more. Especially on the weekend. The fact that it basically indestructible is a plus also. Finally, I love the dial with the squared off hands and markers.
Your point on specs don’t sell they just drive up the cost is (for the most part) very true and I never thought about it that way. I’m wearing a Pelagos 39, which has 200m of water resistance. Would I have been more likely to buy it at 300m? No, I bought it for the materials, design, and build quality. It’s not often in a video someone says something, I take a step back and say wow they are right … I didn’t know that’s what sold me on the product. Great job, keep on making these amazing videos please!
Great insight as always. I love your channel and content. Finally a channel that doesn't just cover Rolex or Tudor but pushes people to buck the trends.
You mentioned them without focusing on them, but your concluding passage (with which I agree, fwiw) points to why Sinn is successful. A distinctive style, sets them apart from the pack but instantly recognizable as "Premium Diver".
I recently bought the Oris Aquis Bracenet. The relief bezel and super unique dial first grabbed my attention. But I keep finding more details, like the applied indices reflection of light or the subtle changes in the bracelet center link, that keeps holding my gaze.
@@ultimaetsoldermine has been on around 10 dives so far and it's doing great. It has one single scratch and I wear it daily. I wouldn't call it disposable.
@@ultimaetsolderdisposable means you use it a set number of times and it has to be thrown out (like nitrile gloves). What is the wear count and timeline until a Duro breaks/disintegrates?
Hi! Today I actually had the Bremont SUPERMARINE in my hand and wow. I was surprised. It’s really good. The 904L steel does indeed shine quite well and the bracelet and case are extremely well made. I was way more impressed than I would have thought. In hand it’s a brilliant watch.
I have a video coming out today about Bremont. In regards to the SM that I saw at W&W - I like it. It's good looking. I don't think it's going to be a smash hit like the BB was for tudor back in 2012 just because the competition is so much greater, but overall a very competently designed watch 😀
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch Looking forward to see it. I also really liked the Terra Nova line but preferred the time only and Date versions as I am not a fan of a compass bezel. In my mind a very nice evolution of Bremont vs the doomsday scnearios from other people who often never had the watch in hand.
Excellent as always. I'm wearing my Sub 14060 on a RubberB strap, very comfortable, very boring and I love it. Reality is, I don't need other watches with this, but have them because I enjoy watches. ( office watch, dress watch etc)
One I do really like as a slightly different diver is the Rado Captain Cook. Its immediately recognisable as a dive watch... But then the doomed saphhire and in-sloping bezel mean it catches the light differently and feels both slightly more dainty and yet somehow rather like a nautical instrument in a way that really holds appeal on a watch which associates with water. Been tempted and not jumped, but I don't wear my diver all that much as it is.
Mike I really do enjoy your video insights into WATCHES and obviously the same ideas apply to many other products we buy! Taking your comments on dive watches, it shows why I enjoy my current car and the ideal replacement. Many thanks. The same ideas apply in the medical world although people do not realise the SCOPE available . . . average . . . or . . . ideal.
I just noticed the MG Wing gundam kit on the back. I like building gunpla and because of the intricacies in details on some of the kit, I became appreciative on intricate detailed craftsmanship. This is why I started being fascinated by antique furniture, architecture and finally mechanical watches.
Important video. Change is good. Encourage innovation. I don't have anything like the extreme diver, but I will have one once it touches down in Las Vegas.
Another profound analysis, thank you, Sir. You always open up new perspectives. One short comment on Sinn's Hydro watches: The development goal was a watch that is readible under any angle under water. The 5000m WD is just a side effect.
ISO 6425:2018 Horology Divers' watches is an international standard for a dive watch. Many “true” Seiko dive watches have “Diver’s” on a dial. Meaning they are compliant to the ISO 6425. As is my Marathon GSAR. Then there are watches that have just the design clues of a dive watch. Newer Seiko SKX models come to mind. Steel Rolex Sub is still the dive watch for me regardless of the price. CWC dive watches look great imho. If you want a true pedigree for a reasonable price then there is Zodiac Sea Wolf. One of the OG dive watches alongside Blancpain FF and Rolex Sub.
Dive watches are fantastic! Great value and flexibility. Usually more experimental and robust and in spite of mine never going deeper than a meter or two, the reassurance the ISO ratings and water resistance brings make them tough great all rounders and GADA watches! Take care Mike!
Many good points here. Thank you. One related, but slightly off-topic idea that comes to mind idea is that brands need, at their core, an icon. Almost Rolex' entire line-up (Explorer, Submariner, Daytona) are icons where the design can be traced back several generations and the purchase is seen in that continuum. Changes to these watches are iterative. To purchase a Submariner today, for example, is a choice to join in an historical progression, to become a part of a storied, popular history. At a glance, a modern Submariner is a successor to the first models produced. Doxa Sub 300s are also icons. You buy one today, and you've established a connection with Jacques Cousteau and Clive Cussler. For Seiko Willards, also, their military history is a link to the past where the purchaser becomes part of the story. This is where Omega is flailing. Their only icon is the Speedmaster, imho, and its not a diver. The Seamaster has come in so many different styles and configurations that none are truly iconic. Iconography and our respect for traditional forms represents a deep-seated human desire, perhaps representing stability and permanence in an often chaotic world. The most successful watches understand this, imho. All the best.
You’re absolutely right about the icons. Lately I’ve been considering getting rid of my Breitling Superocean Heritage which I never really bonded with and get the Navitimer instead.
Agree - I think most brands try to chase that elusive icon. Everybody would like their "submariner" or "reverso" to prop up their brand. But only so many can be iconic 😊
At a certain point as a collector it is tempting to want to graduate from the generic sub to the more niche fifty fathoms - but even price aside how do you reconcile a tool watch having those materials and finishing? It is like paying extra for features that undermine the very idea of the diver concept.
I'm surprised you didn't mention the Oris Aquis. Oris seem to have managed to do well with something of a unique innovative design, despite the non standard strap attachment mechanism.
I like the looks of the Tuseno Shell back diver. Interesting design with the use of a sandwich dial, and incorporating the date. It looks in a rudimentary way like a Rolex sub (the looks say "I'm a drive watch!)...but NO, its design is fresh, and no one would mistake it for a Sub.
I think I agree? I've ordered the V2 and looking forward to delivery. The last thing I need is another diver but I loved the Shell Back design so much that I caved, again.
I recently picked up an Ocean Crowler Core Diver and for the price, I am beyond happy. It is surprising well finished, its different enough to stand out without getting ridiculous, has serious specs, and gets far more complements than my much more expensive watches.
I agree. I have had one for about two years. I am a professional boat captain and it’s my primary work watch. It’s in for a covered warranty repair. The owner is customer focused, reasonable and an excellent communicator. I would 100% buy another from them, however it’s been almost two months since I have seen it as a part needed to be ordered from a supplier and the brand outsources repairs of all types to an experienced third party.
Excellent take on the industry. I have the older iteration of the Longines Hydroconquest with a green dial and feel, whilst the new version is a nice watch, Longines have played it a bit too safe in my opinion with the updated model and the old watch had more unique styling when pitted against its similar priced competitors.
I think Doxa, Seiko and partly Oris with their vintage divers 65 (vintage 12, 3, 6 and 9 markers) are doing a great job of offering something different.
I own a pre-redesign Supermarine from Bremont, and it is one of my daily drivers. I held the new green Supermarine a couple of days ago from my local AD, and was very pleasantly surprised - it is MUCH better in person than in pictures - it is really very high quality for about a $1,000 less than the prior version. Yes, it is very traditional, and I am sad to see the unique case design of the predecessors leave the lineup, but properly marketed, I think it will do just fine - the new Supermarine solves for the "Bremont is too expensive for what you get" complaint and is still a very high quality watch in person. I also own a BB58 - different vibe, and now more expensive.
Another great video and topic! I think divers is an interesting area for analysis because of its popularity and difficulty. You basically have two companies that dominate the diver market on the largest ends of the spectrum, Rolex at the premium end and Seiko at the beater/budget end. That's left some space in the middle for Omega SMPs and Tudor Black Bays to fight it out, with everyone else on the edge. Finding a niche on that edge is so difficult because so much of the market in conventional divers is already taken. How do you establish appeal? Some microbrands have targeted unique designs while Chinese manufacturers target specs/value for budget, below Seiko. Some luxury brands, like Glashütte Original, aim for the luxury market, above Rolex, but they only need to sell a few watches since their production is so low. Where does that leave other legacy brands? It seems like there's only so much of the pie to go around.
I was not expecting to reflect philosophically about modern customs with the excuse of a talk about dive watches, but then I clearly understood why this channel is so interesting...
So, by your definition, my 43mm Aragon DiveMaster 4 EVO with Platinum MoP dial is a true GADA. Tough enough for work and play, yet it has the looks for a suit and tie. A $165 winner 🏆 😊
I must admit Seiko is probably the best right now in terms of churning out both unique and classic divers. I like the approach of using vintage designs with modern upgrades. I think the new 62mas 3 day is going to be a massive hit.
After several years buying and owning dive watches I’ve realised I’ve turned away from the generic submariner look. The ones I’ve kept have been a Sinn, a Zelos bronze and a Marathon GSAR. It has just struck me that, unconsciously, I’ve been drawn to these watches BECAUSE they look different. They may be polarising but they definitely stand out and fulfil their role extremely well. Great discussion. I enjoyed it immensely. 👍🏼
Another great video thank you, thought provoking as always. You're right about a convergence around design but isn't that the same with most retail segments. I would say it's less likely given the amount spent on watches versus shirts or sneakers but what if someone likes the brand Bremont (not me, ruined the logo) but wants something similar to a Submariner. The suits in corporate are saying we need to check a box in our lineup, copy something that works. Yes, it makes a world fairly uniform but the suits leave it up to another brand to be the guinea pig and try something new. If it works copy it. If not, they lean over to the next guy and are like "I told you it wasn't going to work."
Bingo. It is this corporate decision process that leads to these bland designs... 😀
8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1
Your content is so special, deep and entertaining. Its the "luxury content" vs. a lot of beaters (you know who i am thinking about) and below. Did you ever think about doing a book??! Transcribe the audio, correct and add pics and the book of "watches 42" is mainly done. Take the content and train a LLM and then you have the ultimate chatbot for watch nerds. In any case: Please do not stop 😎
The Citizen Orca (also the limited all black / PVD), The Citizen Aqualand JP2000 (+ the full lume dial version) are great dive watches, original, functional and attractive. The Orca may be polarizing. Great legibility. and they are iconic and on the budget side.
What would you recommend as a watch to wear while surfing or swimming but can also be worn at work or dressed up. Budget $150. I love the look of Blancpain 50 fathoms. Hate the swatch collaboration
Seiko does it well. They do both the conventional designs and esoteric designs at various different price points. Their brand heritage for divers is also top notch which trickles down to all their dive watches even if the specfic model deserves it or not.
Mike -- I encourage you to take a look at Serica, in particular the 5303 COSC Chronometre 300m diver. It has a design aesthetic unlike anything else I've seen -- part Art-Deco'ish, part modern -- and comes with an absolutely sublime mesh bracelet. About as "non-convergent" as any diver I've ever seen. Black enamel dial, dual ceramic/stainless steel bezel, soft-iron cage. Having recently acquired and experienced the 5303, I feel it punches well above its weight. Serica is a young (5 years old) Paris-based company taking an entirely different approach to watch design. Their 8315 GMT is also extremely unique. I'm tempted to pull the trigger on that one too.
GP Sea Hawks are a cool innovative design which I have loved for years. Currently they are discontinued. One of my grail watches GP Sea Hawk in Titanium with a rose gold bezel. From the early 2010s. Wow are they beautiful!
I bought my seiko sne589, because i was looking for 1 watch for everything. I wear it for work, beach, hiking and traveling. I have it with a rubber strap. It is always spot-on: maybe 2 seconds per month. I do not mind scratches on it, this way it ot only tells time, it also keeps it, my memory logbook. I may consider a turtle or a captain willard in the future. I am not a fan of small diameters.
I would say Squale (1521, Matic, Master) and Sinn are trying in their own way and the Aquaracer is quite a different looking diver. Omega does a good job sticking to the HEV, without it I think it will look much more generic.
You need to upload more often, or maybe it's I'd appreciate you to upload more often......whatever, LOL. I really enjoy your insights and look forward to each of your videos. An older diver that is VERY different, not most people's cup of tea, is the Roger Dubuis Easy Diver..... it is definitely out of the box. WAY too big and has a white gold bezel but I love it for the movement, the RD56 (the same Lemania based as the Omega 321 that went to the moon) so from under the sea all the way to the moon it's different. I'll get one someday just because it is different.
Great job on the video. My take on different is the Breitling Super Ocean Heritage watches. They looked at their past and others copied them and yet still missed the mark. My first version Super Ocean Heritage 42 in stainless with bracelet and black dial is my favorite dive watch other than the Doca gifted to me by Clive Cussler
Agreed. Big miss by Bremont this year, not only with the Supermarine but also their entire re-branding campaign. But maybe I’ll pay off in a few years? I still love the BB58 Blue and hope to get that one day. But I really like what Formex and Christopher Ward have been doing the last few years. I love the e interchangeable bezels of the Formex!
My favourite diver design is the current gen Breitling Superocean (NOT the heritage). It draws inspiration from their archives, has its unique looks without being over the top.
This is why I am leaning heavily towards the Ulysse Nardin Divers (specifically the Diver 44mm). They are a bit on the larger side, but I have a 7.5" wrist so I can wear it comfortably. It is clearly a diver, but it definitely looks different enough - small seconds, circular date window, power reserve indicator - from the conventional design to be appealing to me. And being UN, they have great history and experience in the marine timekeeping world.
With its sculpted bezel, skeleton hands and cupcake, the Omega 300M is one of those less conventional divers, but it still suits the casual and office wearer.
He normally criticizes omega, so don’t expect anything there. I get some of his criticism which is justified, but it seems he isn’t the biggest fan regardless. Omega have some really great watches smp300 is that watch.
I'll be a voice of dissent here, I think the Omega 300M diver is one of the least attractive watches on the market. To me, it is overdone, the waves on the dial look tacky and the bezel is one of the worst looking out there and that's not even mentioning what most think is it's weak point ,the bracelet. The watch does absolutely nothing for me and I am a fan of Omega.
You can hydrofill a casio 200 h with silicone oil, and have a Water Resistance of 4000m+ for €35,- or so 😂 But my favourite divers are the Aquaracer night diver, 42mm case, and the 63MAS , 38mm case (both of which I built Seiko Mod homages in 40mm for).
Here is my list of fantastic Dive watches, Longines Hydroconquest, Oris Aquis, Doxa sub 200, 300. Tudor BB58 and 41, Squale 50 Atmos Omega Seamaster, Rolex Submariner. Christopher Ward Trident line is great bang for the buck.
These are some great, generally pretty conventional choices - and I do enjoy my Hydroconquest, but don't tend to wear it all that much... As a daily, my Formex Essence is a more comfortable proposition, so that gets more wrist time - and my Eterna Kontiki 4-hands is a more interesting/different dial so that tends to get work plenty too (and the bracelet on that is in a totally different league to the HC). There are divers I'd consider buying, but they'd have to be different enough (or much much nicer) to differentiate themselves from that fairly generic diver I already have - an Oris Aquis is a superb watch, but I don't really have much need of one... Something a bit different but not too out there, perhaps, as a "second diver" would be more tempting - I've always liked the Rado Captain Cook, for example, in that it's different enough to give a slightly different vibe whilst still immediately recognisably a dive watch with all the strengths that divers have.
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch I like the list but I would really like to hear your thoughts about Mido Oceanstar 600 chronometer diver (specs and esthetics)
I personally really like the previous generation Bremont divers. I own a Bremont Alt1-c and really don’t like the direction they’ve gone. I was considering a Bremont diver as my next purchase(I currently don’t have a diver) but now have shifted to Doxa, or perhaps the C-Ward.
I got a Vostok amphibia 510059 scuba dude for my 1st anniversary from my wife. Put an orange sailcloth/rubber strap on it and looks great, I've got it dialed in to +/- 1 sec/day.
I liked dive watches untill I went diving. They are seriously useless compared to dive computers 😅. Just kidding still like divers, they just look great.
I like a dive watch to be large and well designed, like the Willard or MM300 I also like a small slim skin diver, a black bay or 62 Mas Not interested in luxury in a diver but I am in a sports watch or dress
seamaster 300 has that wavy dial that is different than anything else out there probably why it has done so well for so long and i got a zodiak diver with meteorite dial and ceramic bezel for under 2k
In my free time, I was a Dive instructor we talked 30-40 years ago with 1280 dives under my belt. I used only Seiko and Citizen which at that time cost 300 to 400US Dollar . They did the job and never let me down! If you are a serious diver, there is no need to buy a luxury Dive watch but some people have plenty of money to spend.
I know guys with $15k rebreather rigs that dive with the $400 Seiko that everyone buys on Amazon and that occasionally goes down close to $300. Some guys I know even go with the sub $100 Casio Duro. The Citizens eco drives are also popular. Currently what I own just because it's titanium and a little larger on my 8 inch wrist.
Subtle, dry humor paired with tons of information all wrapped up in a no-nonsense presentation. I cannot believe that this is „free content“. Amazing work Mike.
Wow, thank you! 😀
You nailed it Nils. Sitting here watching in Kathmandu 😮 Absolutely love Mike's channel and never miss an episode. Super quality insight and watch nerd presentation!
Hi I’m Mike and it’s been 139 days since my last watch purchase……………and the 12 step meeting continues 😎!
HI MIKE
I saw him at the AD in Copenhagen 3 weeks ago. 😅 strangely enough he didn’t buy a watch? They knew him by first name there
@patrik3450 Lol.... Yeah. I have unfortunately bought at retail too many times at the local AD. I'm sure I have a checkbox in their database that says "easy mark"... 😀😀😂
Was there to sell a watch and have them order something else that should join my collection in a couple of weeks time... 😀
Hi, Mike, I bought I an ali express watch, I am ashamed of myself.
I'm gonna sit quietly on the corner to listen because I don't even have 24 hours clean. I'm still under the influence of my last purchase this morning...
"it's a low bar, but that's the bar" Another great quote hidden in your content.
Low brow.
5 Bar
😂😂
I like this, can be a team building slogan!!
Aside from water resistance and a rotating bezel, I'd say LUME is a must! And good amounts of it :)
Love your videos, thanks for posting!
Have you tried tritium tube dials?
The only time I care about lume is when I'm in the movie theater. When I was in the Marine Corps we put tape over our watches to disguise the lume at night.
@@TheLute70 I'm actually looking for good no lume watches now. Even the best lume is useless after dusk.
Another fantastic video, Mike. It warms my heart to see your number of subscribers gradually continue to rise day after day; you're absolutely killing it and your numbers reflect just that. Cheers from Texas.
Glad to hear you enjoy my vids. Been a while since I last was in Texas. I believe I was inebriated, lying on an inner tube floating down a river as far as I recall.... 😀
My beater dive watch is the Casio Duro (MDV106-1A). 200m, feels decent on the wrist, good bezel action. $50, reliable, and good on an actual dive. I’ve got other dive watches - Seiko, Christopher Ward, and Tudor… but my Duro is my beater. When I dive I wear my dive computer on one wrist, and my Duro on the other.
Amen to that. When I'm wearing my Duro I'm truely enjoy my watch because I don't really care what I'm doing, if it gets a scratch, whatever. And it feels like a million dollars on my wrist since I put it on a metal bracelet from Aliexpress...
Best and highest quality watch youtuber I have ever seen. Thumbs up 👍👍
Thank a ton 😀😀
As usual Mike did a fantastic job answering the question of why dive watches are so popular. Using the KIS approach I would add that dive watches are so popular because they are a true sports watch! Whether you wear a dive watch on land or swim in the pool or snorkel in the ocean or are a sports or professional diver, there is a watch for you. No other watch says "sporty" like a dive watch!
🤝 to me a sports watch means ‘numbers on the bezel’; chronos are a different variant - the sport is car racing.
To me the APs & Patek Aquanauts are just sporty dress watches.
@@WestCoastAce27 FYI...they call it a sports watch because sports watches are tool watches. They were made for use, worn by athletes, adventurers or soldiers - or for timing the likes of athletic events and even scientific endeavors. They're watches of action. They were made to endure rough conditions.
Just bought a boring diver - the Tudor Pelagos 39 in titanium. Although it does not do anything different than the rest, it just checks all the boxes for me and fits my lifestyle. I guess that is exactly why this category is so popular as you said. Not risky and can be worn anywhere. It is just an easy choice.
I have mine for a year now and love it to bits. One of my most worn divers. I got the uncle straps jubilee titanium bracelet on it and it’s sooo cool. It is such a nice watch. It competes and holds up well with my other dive watches Blancpain Bathyscaphe, Breitling SuperOcean arrow hand (2009) and even my VC overseas…..
I think the Pelagos is doing something different. Lume plot markers, titanium, fixed lugs, the lumed bezel, matte ceramic bezel, and a few other design cues weren't very common when the watch was originally released.
Love mine. It’s a Sub, but lighter and even more masculine looking - and I used the leftover $7k for an international trip in Biz class.
Love my Pelegos LHD. One and done!!
@@koolpep I'm right there with you. I've had my Pelagos 39 about a year and like it more now than when I bought it.
I love the new Zenith divers, they are doing something different and I applaud them for it!
Love your videos. Congrats on the 139-day hiatus from watch buying. My favorite diver is the gunmetal Seiko LX SNR043/SBDC037, but only 200 exist.
You didn’t say ‘let’s dive in!’ 🤣
Great perspectives. Bond switching from the wet suit to the tux in Dr No in his Submariner set the diver up as the best all arounder.
139 days? That’s ridiculous. I’ve bought 3… or is it 4? 😀
Wish I had the money for just one
😂
As always, your analysis is superb! Thank you for your hard work and dedication to the hobby.
I think most people don't dive with a Submariner, but I did. Dived all over the world for over 40 years with my beloved Subby. Looks as good now as it did when I bought it :)
A rare actual submariner that submarined.... 😀😀💪
I like how you added the “x days since last watch purchase”. Let’s see what happens to that number after a couple more months.
Not quite sure if I want it to reset or not 😂😂
As a dive master with over 4 decades of experience, I started out with a Seiko Capt. Willard, and other brands before going to dive computers. The lesson I learned early was the value of a crown guard after tearing the crown off of a Certina as I was gearing up for a dive.
It’s a joy to listen to your views. And it’s hard not to agree :). Personally, my divers are more in the entry level luxury or premium segment and my dress watches, chronographs and GMTs are higher-end. I’m just more comfortable with a slightly lower end diver.
That being said, I do prefere my more expensive pieces to fly a bit under the radar, maybe that’s why I prefere dress/casual pieces at the higher end.
Cheers from Portugal (just got back from Mozambique)
I agree with you about the Sinn Hydro having specs that are incredibly niche. That said, a standard U50 has unique looks (well, comparatively) and very good specs and is also very wearable (just 11mm thickness). I think Sinn should be applauded for that combination.
Speaking of Sinn, any news about on the supposedly new navitimer.
The Sinn U50 is killer. It is on my shortlist 😊😊
I have a U50 with a bracelet and I find myself wearing it more and more. Especially on the weekend. The fact that it basically indestructible is a plus also. Finally, I love the dial with the squared off hands and markers.
Your point on specs don’t sell they just drive up the cost is (for the most part) very true and I never thought about it that way. I’m wearing a Pelagos 39, which has 200m of water resistance. Would I have been more likely to buy it at 300m? No, I bought it for the materials, design, and build quality. It’s not often in a video someone says something, I take a step back and say wow they are right
… I didn’t know that’s what sold me on the product. Great job, keep on making these amazing videos please!
I believe a compass is a must in any practical dive watch . The casio frogman is the one u really need when it comes to diving .
Great insight as always. I love your channel and content. Finally a channel that doesn't just cover Rolex or Tudor but pushes people to buck the trends.
You mentioned them without focusing on them, but your concluding passage (with which I agree, fwiw) points to why Sinn is successful. A distinctive style, sets them apart from the pack but instantly recognizable as "Premium Diver".
I recently bought the Oris Aquis Bracenet. The relief bezel and super unique dial first grabbed my attention. But I keep finding more details, like the applied indices reflection of light or the subtle changes in the bracelet center link, that keeps holding my gaze.
Your channel, along with Watch Chris have become my two favorite to watch, excellent point of view as usual. 🙏🏾
I appreciate that 😊😊
Excellent content as always. I can't imagine parting with my BB54 😊
The best conventional ultra-beater is likely the Casio MDV106 "Duro" -- 600,000 worldwide sales in the last 12 years or so.
Its too cheap for a beater. Maybe disposable category. Can't take it seriously when Walmart clears it for $14.
@@ultimaetsoldermine has been on around 10 dives so far and it's doing great. It has one single scratch and I wear it daily. I wouldn't call it disposable.
@@ultimaetsolderdisposable means you use it a set number of times and it has to be thrown out (like nitrile gloves). What is the wear count and timeline until a Duro breaks/disintegrates?
Yeah, thought it really odd to make this video without referencing the Duro.
@@StandAloneState enjoy your $14 Casio.
Hi! Today I actually had the Bremont SUPERMARINE in my hand and wow. I was surprised. It’s really good. The 904L steel does indeed shine quite well and the bracelet and case are extremely well made. I was way more impressed than I would have thought. In hand it’s a brilliant watch.
Interesting
I’m v curious to see it. I’m rooting for them and great to see a take from someone who’s actually seen the watch.
I have a video coming out today about Bremont. In regards to the SM that I saw at W&W - I like it. It's good looking. I don't think it's going to be a smash hit like the BB was for tudor back in 2012 just because the competition is so much greater, but overall a very competently designed watch 😀
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch Looking forward to see it. I also really liked the Terra Nova line but preferred the time only and Date versions as I am not a fan of a compass bezel. In my mind a very nice evolution of Bremont vs the doomsday scnearios from other people who often never had the watch in hand.
That's why I love the Zenith DED. Fantastic looking diver that stands out in a sea of conforming designs.
Excellent as always. I'm wearing my Sub 14060 on a RubberB strap, very comfortable, very boring and I love it. Reality is, I don't need other watches with this, but have them because I enjoy watches. ( office watch, dress watch etc)
One I do really like as a slightly different diver is the Rado Captain Cook.
Its immediately recognisable as a dive watch... But then the doomed saphhire and in-sloping bezel mean it catches the light differently and feels both slightly more dainty and yet somehow rather like a nautical instrument in a way that really holds appeal on a watch which associates with water.
Been tempted and not jumped, but I don't wear my diver all that much as it is.
Mike I really do enjoy your video insights into WATCHES and obviously the same ideas apply to many other products we buy!
Taking your comments on dive watches, it shows why I enjoy my current car and the ideal replacement. Many thanks.
The same ideas apply in the medical world although people do not realise the SCOPE available . . . average . . . or . . . ideal.
Very good content, a distinct lack of stealth sales so common on TH-cam watch channels.
I just noticed the MG Wing gundam kit on the back. I like building gunpla and because of the intricacies in details on some of the kit, I became appreciative on intricate detailed craftsmanship. This is why I started being fascinated by antique furniture, architecture and finally mechanical watches.
Important video. Change is good. Encourage innovation.
I don't have anything like the extreme diver, but I will have one once it touches down in Las Vegas.
Another profound analysis, thank you, Sir. You always open up new perspectives.
One short comment on Sinn's Hydro watches: The development goal was a watch that is readible under any angle under water. The 5000m WD is just a side effect.
Thanks for sharing 😀
ISO 6425:2018 Horology Divers' watches is an international standard for a dive watch.
Many “true” Seiko dive watches have “Diver’s” on a dial. Meaning they are compliant to the ISO 6425. As is my Marathon GSAR.
Then there are watches that have just the design clues of a dive watch. Newer Seiko SKX models come to mind.
Steel Rolex Sub is still the dive watch for me regardless of the price.
CWC dive watches look great imho.
If you want a true pedigree for a reasonable price then there is Zodiac Sea Wolf. One of the OG dive watches alongside Blancpain FF and Rolex Sub.
The original JLC Polaris with the memovox and inner rotating bezel insert
Dive watches are fantastic! Great value and flexibility. Usually more experimental and robust and in spite of mine never going deeper than a meter or two, the reassurance the ISO ratings and water resistance brings make them tough great all rounders and GADA watches! Take care Mike!
Many good points here. Thank you. One related, but slightly off-topic idea that comes to mind idea is that brands need, at their core, an icon. Almost Rolex' entire line-up (Explorer, Submariner, Daytona) are icons where the design can be traced back several generations and the purchase is seen in that continuum. Changes to these watches are iterative. To purchase a Submariner today, for example, is a choice to join in an historical progression, to become a part of a storied, popular history. At a glance, a modern Submariner is a successor to the first models produced. Doxa Sub 300s are also icons. You buy one today, and you've established a connection with Jacques Cousteau and Clive Cussler. For Seiko Willards, also, their military history is a link to the past where the purchaser becomes part of the story. This is where Omega is flailing. Their only icon is the Speedmaster, imho, and its not a diver. The Seamaster has come in so many different styles and configurations that none are truly iconic. Iconography and our respect for traditional forms represents a deep-seated human desire, perhaps representing stability and permanence in an often chaotic world. The most successful watches understand this, imho. All the best.
You’re absolutely right about the icons. Lately I’ve been considering getting rid of my Breitling Superocean Heritage which I never really bonded with and get the Navitimer instead.
Agree - I think most brands try to chase that elusive icon. Everybody would like their "submariner" or "reverso" to prop up their brand. But only so many can be iconic 😊
I disagree about the SMP 300. Imo, it absolutely is an icon.
The Doxa Sub 300 is on my list of to buy watches.
At a certain point as a collector it is tempting to want to graduate from the generic sub to the more niche fifty fathoms - but even price aside how do you reconcile a tool watch having those materials and finishing? It is like paying extra for features that undermine the very idea of the diver concept.
I'm surprised you didn't mention the Oris Aquis. Oris seem to have managed to do well with something of a unique innovative design, despite the non standard strap attachment mechanism.
Probably should have... Sometimes I just have to pick a few examples. The video would get even longer if I had to name drop even more 😀
I like the looks of the Tuseno Shell back diver. Interesting design with the use of a sandwich dial, and incorporating the date. It looks in a rudimentary way like a Rolex sub (the looks say "I'm a drive watch!)...but NO, its design is fresh, and no one would mistake it for a Sub.
Looks really cool!
I think I agree? I've ordered the V2 and looking forward to delivery. The last thing I need is another diver but I loved the Shell Back design so much that I caved, again.
Thanks for the upload Mike
I recently picked up an Ocean Crowler Core Diver and for the price, I am beyond happy. It is surprising well finished, its different enough to stand out without getting ridiculous, has serious specs, and gets far more complements than my much more expensive watches.
I agree. I have had one for about two years. I am a professional boat captain and it’s my primary work watch. It’s in for a covered warranty repair. The owner is customer focused, reasonable and an excellent communicator. I would 100% buy another from them, however it’s been almost two months since I have seen it as a part needed to be ordered from a supplier and the brand outsources repairs of all types to an experienced third party.
Excellent take on the industry. I have the older iteration of the Longines Hydroconquest with a green dial and feel, whilst the new version is a nice watch, Longines have played it a bit too safe in my opinion with the updated model and the old watch had more unique styling when pitted against its similar priced competitors.
I think Doxa, Seiko and partly Oris with their vintage divers 65 (vintage 12, 3, 6 and 9 markers) are doing a great job of offering something different.
I own a pre-redesign Supermarine from Bremont, and it is one of my daily drivers. I held the new green Supermarine a couple of days ago from my local AD, and was very pleasantly surprised - it is MUCH better in person than in pictures - it is really very high quality for about a $1,000 less than the prior version. Yes, it is very traditional, and I am sad to see the unique case design of the predecessors leave the lineup, but properly marketed, I think it will do just fine - the new Supermarine solves for the "Bremont is too expensive for what you get" complaint and is still a very high quality watch in person. I also own a BB58 - different vibe, and now more expensive.
I plan to be one of the few people buying the Zenith Defy revival diver
Another great video and topic! I think divers is an interesting area for analysis because of its popularity and difficulty. You basically have two companies that dominate the diver market on the largest ends of the spectrum, Rolex at the premium end and Seiko at the beater/budget end. That's left some space in the middle for Omega SMPs and Tudor Black Bays to fight it out, with everyone else on the edge. Finding a niche on that edge is so difficult because so much of the market in conventional divers is already taken. How do you establish appeal?
Some microbrands have targeted unique designs while Chinese manufacturers target specs/value for budget, below Seiko. Some luxury brands, like Glashütte Original, aim for the luxury market, above Rolex, but they only need to sell a few watches since their production is so low. Where does that leave other legacy brands? It seems like there's only so much of the pie to go around.
Agree with you the Rolex, Omega, Seiko and Tudor really dominating. The leftovers is what everybody else seems to be fighting over 😀
Love your content and style - would very much enjoy to hear your views of the AP Royal Oak Offshore Diver - thanks for all of your content creation
I was not expecting to reflect philosophically about modern customs with the excuse of a talk about dive watches, but then I clearly understood why this channel is so interesting...
Thank you. Hope you stick around 😃
Best way to start my weekend
So, by your definition, my 43mm Aragon DiveMaster 4 EVO with Platinum MoP dial is a true GADA. Tough enough for work and play, yet it has the looks for a suit and tie. A $165 winner 🏆 😊
I just love this channel. Keep it up!
will try to 😀
The relaunched Aquastar Deepstar II with it smaller case, small seconds and gorgeous color ways is doing the retro diver thing just right.
Love the count up day counter at the end 👌🏻
JLC Polaris is an interesting one. Yama with the bezel lock mechanism
I must admit Seiko is probably the best right now in terms of churning out both unique and classic divers. I like the approach of using vintage designs with modern upgrades. I think the new 62mas 3 day is going to be a massive hit.
Still haven't fixed accuracy, but I love their designs and the new SPB453 - wow... 😀😀
Omega Seamaster 300 heritage is my favourite dive watch with vintage aesthetic but modern parts.
Longines ultra chron is a notable mention
After several years buying and owning dive watches I’ve realised I’ve turned away from the generic submariner look. The ones I’ve kept have been a Sinn, a Zelos bronze and a Marathon GSAR. It has just struck me that, unconsciously, I’ve been drawn to these watches BECAUSE they look different. They may be polarising but they definitely stand out and fulfil their role extremely well. Great discussion. I enjoyed it immensely. 👍🏼
Glad to hear it 😀
I need the timing bezel, weather it's for diving or cooking / grilling something delicious in the kitchen! Plus they look good!
20+ years of collecting, and I'm finally branching out of my "Diver's" phase 😅
LOL nice
"They tried to make me go to rehab...." 😊
Meanwhile, I branching out of chronos, and INTO divers 😅
@@vaughandurful cheaper servicing costs, at least.
I very much like the Blancpain Fiftyfathoms day date desert it’s dial is just so stunning! It combines everything I love in watches ✌🏻
I really enjoy your themed videos! I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on other categories: pilot watches, GADA watches, etc
The new zenith and the panerai submersible, both look a bit different from the regular divers (tudor, rolex, monta, etc)
Another great video thank you, thought provoking as always. You're right about a convergence around design but isn't that the same with most retail segments. I would say it's less likely given the amount spent on watches versus shirts or sneakers but what if someone likes the brand Bremont (not me, ruined the logo) but wants something similar to a Submariner. The suits in corporate are saying we need to check a box in our lineup, copy something that works. Yes, it makes a world fairly uniform but the suits leave it up to another brand to be the guinea pig and try something new. If it works copy it. If not, they lean over to the next guy and are like "I told you it wasn't going to work."
Bingo. It is this corporate decision process that leads to these bland designs... 😀
Your content is so special, deep and entertaining. Its the "luxury content" vs. a lot of beaters (you know who i am thinking about) and below. Did you ever think about doing a book??! Transcribe the audio, correct and add pics and the book of "watches 42" is mainly done. Take the content and train a LLM and then you have the ultimate chatbot for watch nerds. In any case: Please do not stop 😎
Thanks for the praise. I'll try to keep it up 😀
a seiko dive watch is a thing of beauty. i love my bb58 too
The Citizen Orca (also the limited all black / PVD), The Citizen Aqualand JP2000 (+ the full lume dial version) are great dive watches, original, functional and attractive. The Orca may be polarizing. Great legibility. and they are iconic and on the budget side.
What would you recommend as a watch to wear while surfing or swimming but can also be worn at work or dressed up. Budget $150. I love the look of Blancpain 50 fathoms. Hate the swatch collaboration
As always you're adapt at puting your watcher's thoughs into words.
Thanks 😊
Seiko does it well. They do both the conventional designs and esoteric designs at various different price points. Their brand heritage for divers is also top notch which trickles down to all their dive watches even if the specfic model deserves it or not.
Great video but also, nice Wing Gundam ew version on your shelf!
Mike -- I encourage you to take a look at Serica, in particular the 5303 COSC Chronometre 300m diver. It has a design aesthetic unlike anything else I've seen -- part Art-Deco'ish, part modern -- and comes with an absolutely sublime mesh bracelet. About as "non-convergent" as any diver I've ever seen. Black enamel dial, dual ceramic/stainless steel bezel, soft-iron cage. Having recently acquired and experienced the 5303, I feel it punches well above its weight.
Serica is a young (5 years old) Paris-based company taking an entirely different approach to watch design. Their 8315 GMT is also extremely unique. I'm tempted to pull the trigger on that one too.
GP Sea Hawks are a cool innovative design which I have loved for years. Currently they are discontinued. One of my grail watches GP Sea Hawk in Titanium with a rose gold bezel. From the early 2010s. Wow are they beautiful!
Thanks Mike. Loving your vids! Isn't lume (including on the seconds hand) not as well a criterion in addition to depth rating and bezel?
Possibly. It could be there with the 200m and the bezel .😊
Your take on Rolex not really doing anything significant because they don't need to is spot on.
I bought my seiko sne589, because i was looking for 1 watch for everything. I wear it for work, beach, hiking and traveling. I have it with a rubber strap. It is always spot-on: maybe 2 seconds per month. I do not mind scratches on it, this way it ot only tells time, it also keeps it, my memory logbook. I may consider a turtle or a captain willard in the future. I am not a fan of small diameters.
I would say Squale (1521, Matic, Master) and Sinn are trying in their own way and the Aquaracer is quite a different looking diver. Omega does a good job sticking to the HEV, without it I think it will look much more generic.
Good options 😊
You need to upload more often, or maybe it's I'd appreciate you to upload more often......whatever, LOL. I really enjoy your insights and look forward to each of your videos. An older diver that is VERY different, not most people's cup of tea, is the Roger Dubuis Easy Diver..... it is definitely out of the box. WAY too big and has a white gold bezel but I love it for the movement, the RD56 (the same Lemania based as the Omega 321 that went to the moon) so from under the sea all the way to the moon it's different. I'll get one someday just because it is different.
Lol... Don't have the time to upload more than once a week. As for the RD.... Definitely an acquired taste for most people 😀😀
Mike - I really enjoy your content! good job -thanks for your contribution to our cmmunity
Glad you enjoy it! 😀
Great job on the video. My take on different is the Breitling Super Ocean Heritage watches. They looked at their past and others copied them and yet still missed the mark. My first version Super Ocean Heritage 42 in stainless with bracelet and black dial is my favorite dive watch other than the Doca gifted to me by Clive Cussler
Not often Breitling gets a mention. The superocean though is definitely a good option 😀😀
Agreed. Big miss by Bremont this year, not only with the Supermarine but also their entire re-branding campaign. But maybe I’ll pay off in a few years? I still love the BB58 Blue and hope to get that one day. But I really like what Formex and Christopher Ward have been doing the last few years. I love the e interchangeable bezels of the Formex!
My favourite diver design is the current gen Breitling Superocean (NOT the heritage). It draws inspiration from their archives, has its unique looks without being over the top.
This is why I am leaning heavily towards the Ulysse Nardin Divers (specifically the Diver 44mm). They are a bit on the larger side, but I have a 7.5" wrist so I can wear it comfortably. It is clearly a diver, but it definitely looks different enough - small seconds, circular date window, power reserve indicator - from the conventional design to be appealing to me. And being UN, they have great history and experience in the marine timekeeping world.
With its sculpted bezel, skeleton hands and cupcake, the Omega 300M is one of those less conventional divers, but it still suits the casual and office wearer.
Indeed, I also thought “what about the 300M?”. Mike - what’s your take on this diver family?
I'd buy one if it wasn't for that God awful bracelet. They need to release a tapered version.
He normally criticizes omega, so don’t expect anything there. I get some of his criticism which is justified, but it seems he isn’t the biggest fan regardless.
Omega have some really great watches smp300 is that watch.
I'll be a voice of dissent here, I think the Omega 300M diver is one of the least attractive watches on the market. To me, it is overdone, the waves on the dial look tacky and the bezel is one of the worst looking out there and that's not even mentioning what most think is it's weak point ,the bracelet. The watch does absolutely nothing for me and I am a fan of Omega.
@@TheSlowoldman I'm the same on every point, but I can't deny that it's versatile and popular despite being unconventional.
You can hydrofill a casio 200 h with silicone oil, and have a Water Resistance of 4000m+ for €35,- or so 😂
But my favourite divers are the Aquaracer night diver, 42mm case, and the 63MAS , 38mm case (both of which I built Seiko Mod homages in 40mm for).
Owning a Black Bay Burgundy and a GO SeaQ while always wearing my Sinn 104 in the water even if it's not a Diver. 😂
Here is my list of fantastic Dive watches, Longines Hydroconquest, Oris Aquis, Doxa sub 200, 300. Tudor BB58 and 41, Squale 50 Atmos Omega Seamaster, Rolex Submariner. Christopher Ward Trident line is great bang for the buck.
These are some great, generally pretty conventional choices - and I do enjoy my Hydroconquest, but don't tend to wear it all that much... As a daily, my Formex Essence is a more comfortable proposition, so that gets more wrist time - and my Eterna Kontiki 4-hands is a more interesting/different dial so that tends to get work plenty too (and the bracelet on that is in a totally different league to the HC).
There are divers I'd consider buying, but they'd have to be different enough (or much much nicer) to differentiate themselves from that fairly generic diver I already have - an Oris Aquis is a superb watch, but I don't really have much need of one... Something a bit different but not too out there, perhaps, as a "second diver" would be more tempting - I've always liked the Rado Captain Cook, for example, in that it's different enough to give a slightly different vibe whilst still immediately recognisably a dive watch with all the strengths that divers have.
Lots of good options there 😀
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch I like the list but I would really like to hear your thoughts about Mido Oceanstar 600 chronometer diver (specs and esthetics)
Still diving after all these years, albeit in the pool…
Great video. 👍👍👍
You and me both! 😀
Ah do your videos only come out on Saturdays? Now I can save time from refreshing and checking TH-cam every day 😂
It’s also crucial to have a seconds hand to be able to check that the watch is still running.
I personally really like the previous generation Bremont divers. I own a Bremont Alt1-c and really don’t like the direction they’ve gone. I was considering a Bremont diver as my next purchase(I currently don’t have a diver) but now have shifted to Doxa, or perhaps the C-Ward.
I got a Vostok amphibia 510059 scuba dude for my 1st anniversary from my wife. Put an orange sailcloth/rubber strap on it and looks great, I've got it dialed in to +/- 1 sec/day.
I think the Longines Hydroconquest series is extremely good value in the lower premium segment.
Good option for sure 😀
I liked dive watches untill I went diving. They are seriously useless compared to dive computers 😅. Just kidding still like divers, they just look great.
You first and second sentences had me like 😠 Your last sentence had me like 😅😆 You invoked my bipolar roller coaster
I like a dive watch to be large and well designed, like the Willard or MM300
I also like a small slim skin diver, a black bay or 62 Mas
Not interested in luxury in a diver but I am in a sports watch or dress
I wonder how far down I could go with my SNK393. It says it's 30m water resist. How far can these things typically be pushed?
seamaster 300 has that wavy dial that is different than anything else out there probably why it has done so well for so long
and i got a zodiak diver with meteorite dial and ceramic bezel for under 2k