So would you think that the Tissot Chrono series are a good brand and model to choose as a beginning horologist? I’ve owned Tag, Movado, Grand Seiko, G-Shock Master of G, Rolex (albeit overpriced for what they are), etc. but this is my first Tissot. I have a Tissot Savonnette coming as well (pocket watch).
I think the biggest factor is why you buy the watch. Try to ignore the "luxury" watches. Luxury is a subjective matter. Affordability and value are the factors.
@@andrewcallahan3834it can… but what I think they meant, is you can have a well built watch (sometimes built even better) that keeps great time and not be one of the well known Swiss watches. I’m in my early 40’s and remember when watches were a necessity and not an accessory. Back in those days to get a nice automatic time piece, you really had to spend a lot or know someone that sold counterfeit watches. With today’s technology in manufacturing you can get Swiss quality watches at regular people prices. Not saying the Swiss watches aren’t worth it because they’re made to such a high degree of precision that only comes from building mostly everything from hand. That’s when it crosses over to not just jewelry, but pure artwork. As we all know artwork is worth whatever someone that isn’t you is willing to pay for it and has it’s own market and often times is like it’s own currency. Rolex watches for example are $10K from a dealer, but people buy them and horde them to create a demand (or the company does it themselves to create that demand) and now buying that same $10K Rolex is worth upwards of $30K on the second hand market as soon as you take possession and leave the authorized dealer. So people are going to buy a $10K watch if they can immediately sell it for a $20K profit… that’s low balling it because Patek Watches we’re going for over $100K at a original of $30k, I think… it’s close but don’t quote me on the Patek watches. This is why we can’t have nice things? It’s not just Jewelry/Artwork either… I mean the pandemic hits and the first thing some people do is buy ALL OF THE TOILET PAPER?! Seriously… like wtf? Everyone has access to a shower and the ones that don’t… don’t buy TP anyway? I can see if it was canned vegetables, Raumen noodles or food/water consumable related… but people were hoarding pallets of toilet paper! Funny thing is when supply caught up with demand there was a bunch of people trying to sell back THOUSANDS of dollars worth of toilet paper 🤣… the one guy spent like $100K on pallets of toilet paper and then when he couldn’t price gouge because ppl could just go to the store he tried selling it back to a store just to get his money back and they wouldn’t take it 😜. He now has a lifetime supply of sh** tickets. I kinda went on a rant there sorry, ADD… can’t help it. But to your point, you are correct in a the sense that different people value things differently, logically we don’t need most of what we own. Majority of our possessions are creature comforts and we have certain things that we’re willing to pay more for because we give it that value in some way shape or form… rationality or practical is less important these days but still exists differently from person to person. Love Swiss watches and if I could afford a Rolex or $30K Patek I would probably own one, but it’s not something that I think about because even though I love watches and appreciate the detail that goes into them, I don’t feel like there’s a watch over $300-$500 that I felt compelled to buy. But we all have our own vices right?
It depends on your financial position. If you have the money to spare, you cannot really ignore luxury watches. Once you attain a certain stage of financial freedom, all that becomes irrelevant.
I used to buy watches only based on "looking good" but i never considered if they are fake, good thing i havent come across a fake watch but i'll certainly look out for those, also ty for this video, this will help me look for the best choice/watches to buy soon
An extra recommendation should be: check in your area if anyone services mechanical watches and for how much. In my area (seacoast New Hampshire), there are only a few places that work on watches. Most refuse to service anything that is not a luxury brand, and the only one that even called me back for a watch with a medium/lower end ETA movement said that basic service starts at $450. I have sent watches away to be serviced, but it is hit or miss if they actually come back having been serviced or not and what quality of servicing is received (even from the same company).
I went to the Omega Boutique in NYC to ask about servicing my Grandfather’s Omega Constellation watch after he passed and they stated that because the watch is so old, they would have to send it to Switzerland for servicing because the parts have to be hand made. They quoted $1500 and I wouldn’t have the watch for 6 months! Long story short, the salesman urged me not to service it since it still winds and keeps time perfectly (My grandfather last had it serviced and maintenance in 2012). Salesman basically said to do a full servicing when it stops keeping time correctly or it doesn’t wind properly. Watch still keeps time perfectly to this day.
@@Bapu4President Man, I just wanna say you should get in touch with Wristwatch Revival to maybe get him to service it. Might get a super cool video along with a servicing
Quartz watches could tick faster. But they almost always limit it to 1 second ticks to save battery life. But they could have quarter second ticks if they chose to.
316 stainless is also used for boats and seashore environments. While it is a bit softer than 304 (‘regular’ stainless steel), it was designed to take corrosion much better. I don’t know what the L adds to the mix. 304 is not really inferior though. It should be tougher to dent and scratch I presume. It probably also builds rust a bit quicker. For other appliances I prefer it over 316.
@@watchspotting as far as I know carbon is used to harden steel. It can also make the steel more brittle. A higher carbon content is used in knives to give them better edge retention for instance.
One quibble and only because I work exclusively in 304L and 316L. 304 is not inferior to 316. It's actually harder and has a higher melting point. Where 316 fares better is in corrosion resistance when exposed to salts and acids. 316 though is also easier to machine because of its Molybdenum content which makes it (relatively) softer than its cousin 304. The Moly also gives 316 a better corrosion resistance in its astinic barrier. That being said, the average human would be hard pressed to see any difference in the two metals over the course of the natural life of a watch.
Ben, you are killing it in watch RUclips. I really appreciate that you don't talk about Rolex or Lange watches like half the rest of this place, and keep things relatable to things that 99% of watch enthusiasts actually care about and can relate to. It feels less like a product ad or lecture and more like just talking to a knowledgeable mate in a pub about a shared passion for watches. Incisive, deep, entertaining, critical, yet still humble and chill. Others may have super high production value but yours are definitely the easiest to watch.
I already have a few watches, and I'm not really looking for new ones but your videos, the style and your personality are awesome. Keep doing the videos, you really deserve more recognition
Such an insightful video for a beginner like me! I'd entered my card details on the MVMT website and almost bought one of their watches and fortunately out of nowhere I stumbled across this video. Thank you for enlightening newbies like me, Ben! Kudos to your efforts that go into making such videos.
@@mdrglxix3699 Thank you! Went through 7-8 more videos and now I've ordered myself a Seiko 5 sports to kickstart my journey as novice into the world of horology
In my opinion these cheap digital Casios or their Edifice series are very versatile. Many Edifice models go well with both a suit or when you're just running to the grocery.
This is a SUPER comprehensive how-to of watches, and is a great entry video for anyone getting into the hobby of watches. Probably the best I’ve seen on RUclips. Terrific work bro! Keep it up!
Great video Ben, I've only recently stumbled across your channel and I completely agree with your points especially on brands. having owned an Armani watch in the past, I can tell you from experience that they're a tad overrated. This was because of the fact that the battery life was poor, it required changing after every couple of months, whereas most watches have 2-3 year life span. I eventually changed it after 2 years and got a Sekonda watch that I still have now and works well bearing in mind I got in 2018. I've only had to change the battery twice in the space of 6 years. My best bit of advice is to everyone is to go for watch specialist brands such as Accurist, Seiko, Citizen, Casio, Lorus, Sekonda, Rotary, Tissot (look for discounts anything under £250 is a good price as these can be quite pricey) as opposed to designer brands despite how alluring they may seem, you'll thank me later haha. The specialist ones will not only have a better build quality, but they'll last considerably longer as well.
That's it! I've been looking at mechanical watches too long. I recognised the Seagull 1963 movement (ST1901) the instant you started talking about mechanical watches.
I would suggest go for black resin case for Casio, as the chrome or gold coating on resin case will peel off over time. If metal-looking case is a must, go for real steel not resin with coating.
Oh Ben, I think you've more or less nailed the 'whole watch thing', which isn't an easy thing to do!!!!! I have watches that span more or less the whole range of what's available including Moon/Space travel? Thanks again, have a great Christmas and stay safe!
I've got quite skinny wrists but wear a fossil mega machine. Have had nothing but compliments and you definitely realise when you forget to put it on in the morning 😂 I've got smaller watches too but I do love the chunky ones
An automatic winding movement comes under the category of mechanical movement. I would say instead we have: quartz, manual or automatic wound mechanical watches. Just being pedantic with the Queens English vs the American.lol. I really like the way you cover watches anywhere from any price. Specifically Quartz and sub 100$ mechanicals. Not a lot of watch RUclips channels take these seriously, unless it's to tear up a fashion watch they've never seen. I remember you did a vid on some Ali Express watch,(don't remember the name) but you took it seriously and did a real, thoughtful review. Yeah, most of those watches are shall we say, Crap, in the end. But you have the integrity to treat a review of a Cadison just as seriously as a Patek. Thank you for it.
Great content You really did a great job speaking to non-watch people I enjoyed seeing this and can share this when trying to explain my watches to my friends Thanks
This should be a go-to piece for literally anyone new to the hobby. Outstanding work Ben. Though why Spaghetti Scammetti didn't get a recommendation boggles me.
I've just and received a lovely Tandorio 62MAS style with a PT5000 movement via Aliexpress, all good, it's a lovely watch and UK duty etc paid. Yes I was sceptical, but I pulled the pin and I love just love it!
I've got it now, I keep staring at it lol. Looks nice on. I have to wind it twice a day to be sure it will keep ticking. Though I think at first I was afraid to wind it to the natural limit i.e. until you feel resistance
Well i have to say that i already knew most of the things that were said here, but I also learned some new things . When i was a kid i wore all kinds of counterfeit watches, Chinese copies, the worst of the worst , but now at 40 years old, i am no longer willing to spend money on watches of dubious quality and origin, I prefer if I still i want an ok watch, to buy from a respectable brand, even if i don't necessarily buy an expensive watch , recently with the occasion of the Black Friday sales i had the opportunity to buy at very good prices some quartz watches from Casio, one for me one for my wife and one to give as a gift, also on the last hundred meters, i caught another good deal on Black Friday at a imposible to refuse price, another watch this time an Orient watch, automatic, for me, until i saw this video, i wasn't sure if i had made an inspired choice regarding watch brands, choosing Casio and Orient, now i know . 😀
One golden piece of advice when buying a watch, but you don't know anything about watches and you're not interested into the topic... *Just put everything aside and buy yourself a Casio G-shock (whatever variant you may fancy). And you're good for life.*
Consise, clearly framed, and pleasently delivered guidelines for less experienced watch purchasers. Thanks for simplifying a subject which otherwise can be impervious to common sense.
Lol I caved into Black Friday peer pressure and bought an armani exchange watch without knowing anything about watches (I have one Skagen watch that I got as a gift, it's alright) then just recently discovered your channel. It was only $50 though and I think it looks nice, so it'll hold me over until I get a real starter watch. No biggie
Great video for those just starting out, it’s easy to forget how much information is out there, to have it well explained in one place is a great resource. Thank you for taking the time to do this!
There is nothing like the feeling you get when your want to buy that classy watch for someone special and left with the wonder "what would she like??" ... I have to tell say, you posted this at a perfect time. Even with some kind of idea of the workings of the watch industry, it's always great to know Ben once again has my back with a quick refresh especially around the holiday's. Thanks again Ben, all the best for you and your family over the holiday's! Stay safe
Awesome video mate, really great for newcomers to the hobby or just anyone that is struggling with what to buy. Also don't forget about solar movements like eco-drive, they are superior to regular quartz and offer even lower maintenance. But you hit the nail on the head with this one. And massive congratulations on 100k too. Well deserved mate.
36mm is fine for most men. This used to be the only size the datejust came in. It's only recently that men have got a bit funny about sub 40mm cases. I think it's silly. I wear my late fathers 36mm Datejust all the time and it looks fine. I also wear a red Casioak and that look fine too.
I have smaller wrists but I prefer a watch in the 40-45 mm range. I think Ben is a bit too concerned with dial size and that fussing over a millimeter or two is nitpicking a bit too much. Ultimately it's a matter of personal taste. I inherited several nice watches from the 50s, 60s and 70s recently (Seiko, Hamilton, other nice brands) and wow are they small, even for my wrists. I don't see many watches in that small size being worn these days. Of course, fashion is a pendulum and tastes may run back towards the small watches someday. Then my whole collection will be out of style 🤣
For sure, I honestly find it pretty effeminate if a guy gets so caught up that a watch is not at least 40mm. 36mm was a classic size for decades and it still looks amazing.
@@stimpy_thecat fashion and style are two different things. A vintage 36mm automatic will always be stylish. An oversize abomination like a big daddy is fashion.
I own a Timex digital, a Casio quartz and an Amazefit semi smart watch. But my favorite is a recently acquired HMT hand wind 36 mm. There is something about these mech watches that's so attractive.
"Watches rarely look too small" - Yeah, well, you should see what a 40mm bracelet watch looks like on my stupidly wide platform-type flat wrist. My two most beloved watches are 46mm and 47mm because they actually fit the breadth of my wrist perfectly. I'm not even a big guy, I just have broad and flat wrists.
3:32 This Casio Lineage is all you need: classic look of analog watch, features of digital watch, solar powered and constant time sync of atomic watch. Never buy luxury watch as your first watch. You wouldn't know much on watches at this moment and your taste for watches will definitely change as time pass.
3:06 304L isn't inferior to 316L, it just comes with different properties. In 316L emphasis is put on corrosion resistance. This is a stainless steel that is developed to function in high corrosive environment, like sea shores. It probably also deals better with sweat in contact with the skin. The trade-off is that it is a bit softer than 304L. 304L on the other hand has more tensile strength and tends to be a bit harder, which should offer better dent and scratch resistance. I don't know whether there is a difference in allergenic properties between the two, but that could also be the case. One misconception with stainless steels is that they do not rust. They can, but they are less susceptible. Always avoid contact with strong alkaloids like chloride for this harms the stainless properties of steel.
Depends on the person, my "Solar powered Timex Expedition Acadia" ticks but I find that soothing rather than annoying, and it's otherwise fit to function for a light duty / backup watch, planning yo get a casio G-Shock square for heavy duty stuff and have a "Boderry Urban skeletal watch" coming to test out as my first mechanical/automatic, will probably collect a few better known brands later if I sufficiently "catch the watch bug"
My real life experience of getting the first watch: December 2021, I made an impulsive decision by buying watch based on just specs. After ordering I realised it was a dress watch and I needed a field watch so I cancelled the order after it had already reached my doorstep. The second watch I ordered was perfect and new but had no tags and warranty. So I returned it. I have now realised that I will only buy a watch from the official website or from the store itself. Still haven't got one yet. Probably January now for me for first watch.
You shouldn't worry to much about warranty, ive got a watch from the 70s, that's never been serviced and its still running well, the chances are your watch will long outlast any warranty and by generations if its a quality swiss watch, its generally not something to worry too much about. What did you buy out of interest?
I love this so much. Your videos really sparked my interest (and emptied my wallet). Found your channel this year so thank you for such interesting videos!
This is how I think of watch categories: Smart watches, Digital watches, Automatic and Quartz (battery and ticky second hand) come in these styles; Field, Diver's, Sports, Chrono, Pilot's and Dress. In quartz you have just the battery kind, solar (also called eco-drive by Citizen). In mechanical watches, you have these days mostly Automatic, which is self winding, or you can still find manual winding watches, which usually are a little thinner. You are supposed to have mechanical watches serviced, but it does'nt make much sense with an inexpensive watch. After 20 years of solid use without servicing, you may have an inaccurate or non-functional watch. Quartz batteries can last from 2-10 years depending on the model. Some quality solar watches can last 20+ years on the original battery. Quartz are usually much more accurate than mechanical watches. Smart watches have the shortest lifespan, I think under 5 years would be average, possibly you could stretch it to 10 years before it wore out or became completely obsolete. Daily charging your battery can be a pain, not my cup of tea. Casio G-Shock IMO are a category of their own, a tough watch with either digital, ana-digi or even Smartwatch variants.
Just be aware that a mechanical movement in any entry-level watch only works for about 5 to 10 years before it would need to be serviced by a watchmaker. Servicing a watch usually doesn't make economic sense in this price range because the service would cost more than the watch itself. Swapping out the entire movement is an option sometimes, if the type of movement required can be sourced. And just to get ahead of a bunch of anecdotes from other watch people who might reply to this: Yes, I know that many watches run just fine for much longer, but you absolutely cannot rely on that always being the case.
@@grmpf The service would cost more than the watch itself? How much is service? I was thinking like $100 or so every 5 years. This is based on nothing of course.
@@Mehwhatevr Well, yes, that would be roughly the starting point for the cost of a service, maybe closer to 150 these days, but that's about the price range Ben is recommending here for your first mechanical watch, isn't it? Do you have a specific watch in mind?
I couldn't wear chromed brass watches if I wanted to... which i do not. I am allergic to Nickel and these plated watches would cause a painful reaction on my wrist. I can wear 316L Stainless however 304 is a no go, I have no idea if I could wear a Rolex 904L as I don't want to spent that much... but my understanding is that 904L has a much higher nickel content % than 316L.
Great video, except for one comment I have. You mentioned that you'll only be able to see the differences in a 1000+ watch under a microscope, but that's not really the case. If you want to see and notice the differences in 30 short seconds you do, but the finer details and craftsmanship will be pretty readily noticed within a few days of consistent wear. And as you get more acclimated you start to notice the differences even faster too.
You did an amazing job! The video is very clear and it's very useful for beginners, you accent is clear as well so it's not too hard to understand for non-native speakers. I'm going to watch other videos from your channel (I've just discovered today)
Thanks for this video, I'm new to watches and am really amazed by the Orient Open Heart automatic. It's the kind of feature JLC would make you pay $20k for but for an every-man budget and from a solid Japanese brand, not a knock off from China.
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
Watches shown in this video (chronological order, affiliate links):
Sea-Gull 1963 Chronograph: tidd.ly/3lEotM8
Seiko 5 SNXS: geni.us/seikosnxs7
Maen Hudson 38 Diver: www.maenwatches.com/pages/hudson-automatic-collection
Casio A171: geni.us/casioa171
Casio Duro MDV-106: geni.us/casiomdv
G-Shock: geni.us/casioga-2100
Hamilton Khaki Mechanical: www.tkqlhce.com/click-8946237-11554237?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jomashop.com%2Fhamilton-khaki-field-watch-h69439511.html
Seiko 5 SRPG33: geni.us/seikosrpg33
Accurist Chronograph: geni.us/accurist7216
Casio Lineage LCW-M100TSE: geni.us/casiolcwm100
Orient Star Classic: www.jdoqocy.com/click-8946237-11554237?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jomashop.com%2Forient-watch-saf02002b0.html
Depth Charge Diver: tidd.ly/3fqEuCx
Vostok Komandirskie: geni.us/vostokkomandirskie
Bulova Precisionist (smooth quartz): geni.us/bulovaprecisionist
Bulova Hack Field Watch: www.dpbolvw.net/click-8946237-11554237?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jomashop.com%2Fbulova-hack-watch-96a246.html
Lorus Automatic: geni.us/lorusrl439ax9
Nezumi Tonnerre Chronograph: www.nezumistudios.com/product-category/watches/?
Casio F-91W: geni.us/CasioF91W
Casio W-86: tidd.ly/2PRSbQU
Seiko SNKL45: www.anrdoezrs.net/links/8946237/type/dlg/www.jomashop.com/seiko-seiko-5-watch-snkl45j1.html
Boldr Venture Titanium: bit.ly/boldrventureblack
Junkers Bauhaus: geni.us/junkers100
Nixon Time Teller: geni.us/nixontimeteller
Seizenn Skin Diver: tidd.ly/3BuXt6C
Pagani Design Explorer: www.paganidesignwatch.com/pagani-design-pd-1661?aff=13
RLG Odyssea: www.rlgwatches.com/odyssea **use promo code BWC21 for $30 off**
Seiko SNKL23: geni.us/seikosnkl23
Orient Kamasu: geni.us/orientkamasuauto
Bulova 96B276: geni.us/bulova96b276
Casio Solar Diver: geni.us/casiomtp-s110
Casio Edifice Diver: geni.us/casioefv-130d
Vostok Amphibia: geni.us/vostokamphibia
Seiko Mini-Turtle: www.seikowatches.com/ph-en/products/prospex/srpc35k1
Casio A700: geni.us/casioa700we
Orient Ray II: geni.us/orientrayII
Casio Edifice EFR-S107: geni.us/casioefr
Citizen Titanium: geni.us/citizenbm7360
Orient Open Heart: geni.us/orientraar0002
So would you think that the Tissot Chrono series are a good brand and model to choose as a beginning horologist? I’ve owned Tag, Movado, Grand Seiko, G-Shock Master of G, Rolex (albeit overpriced for what they are), etc. but this is my first Tissot. I have a Tissot Savonnette coming as well (pocket watch).
I learned more about watches in less than 20 min than I knew my whole life. Thank you!
I think the biggest factor is why you buy the watch. Try to ignore the "luxury" watches. Luxury is a subjective matter. Affordability and value are the factors.
that can also be subjective though
@@andrewcallahan3834it can… but what I think they meant, is you can have a well built watch (sometimes built even better) that keeps great time and not be one of the well known Swiss watches. I’m in my early 40’s and remember when watches were a necessity and not an accessory. Back in those days to get a nice automatic time piece, you really had to spend a lot or know someone that sold counterfeit watches. With today’s technology in manufacturing you can get Swiss quality watches at regular people prices. Not saying the Swiss watches aren’t worth it because they’re made to such a high degree of precision that only comes from building mostly everything from hand. That’s when it crosses over to not just jewelry, but pure artwork. As we all know artwork is worth whatever someone that isn’t you is willing to pay for it and has it’s own market and often times is like it’s own currency. Rolex watches for example are $10K from a dealer, but people buy them and horde them to create a demand (or the company does it themselves to create that demand) and now buying that same $10K Rolex is worth upwards of $30K on the second hand market as soon as you take possession and leave the authorized dealer. So people are going to buy a $10K watch if they can immediately sell it for a $20K profit… that’s low balling it because Patek Watches we’re going for over $100K at a original of $30k, I think… it’s close but don’t quote me on the Patek watches. This is why we can’t have nice things? It’s not just Jewelry/Artwork either… I mean the pandemic hits and the first thing some people do is buy ALL OF THE TOILET PAPER?! Seriously… like wtf? Everyone has access to a shower and the ones that don’t… don’t buy TP anyway? I can see if it was canned vegetables, Raumen noodles or food/water consumable related… but people were hoarding pallets of toilet paper! Funny thing is when supply caught up with demand there was a bunch of people trying to sell back THOUSANDS of dollars worth of toilet paper 🤣… the one guy spent like $100K on pallets of toilet paper and then when he couldn’t price gouge because ppl could just go to the store he tried selling it back to a store just to get his money back and they wouldn’t take it 😜. He now has a lifetime supply of sh** tickets. I kinda went on a rant there sorry, ADD… can’t help it. But to your point, you are correct in a the sense that different people value things differently, logically we don’t need most of what we own. Majority of our possessions are creature comforts and we have certain things that we’re willing to pay more for because we give it that value in some way shape or form… rationality or practical is less important these days but still exists differently from person to person. Love Swiss watches and if I could afford a Rolex or $30K Patek I would probably own one, but it’s not something that I think about because even though I love watches and appreciate the detail that goes into them, I don’t feel like there’s a watch over $300-$500 that I felt compelled to buy. But we all have our own vices right?
other than to look good, i don't see any other reason. Time? My phone got it thanks
It depends on your financial position. If you have the money to spare, you cannot really ignore luxury watches. Once you attain a certain stage of financial freedom, all that becomes irrelevant.
You only make the guy who invented the luxury watch rich.
I used to buy watches only based on "looking good" but i never considered if they are fake, good thing i havent come across a fake watch but i'll certainly look out for those, also ty for this video, this will help me look for the best choice/watches to buy soon
How do you know 😉
An extra recommendation should be: check in your area if anyone services mechanical watches and for how much. In my area (seacoast New Hampshire), there are only a few places that work on watches. Most refuse to service anything that is not a luxury brand, and the only one that even called me back for a watch with a medium/lower end ETA movement said that basic service starts at $450. I have sent watches away to be serviced, but it is hit or miss if they actually come back having been serviced or not and what quality of servicing is received (even from the same company).
Underated comment. 👍🏾
I thought about this many times.
That's crazy. What about the not so developed parts of the world? There may not even be a mechanical watch seeviceman.
I went to the Omega Boutique in NYC to ask about servicing my Grandfather’s Omega Constellation watch after he passed and they stated that because the watch is so old, they would have to send it to Switzerland for servicing because the parts have to be hand made. They quoted $1500 and I wouldn’t have the watch for 6 months!
Long story short, the salesman urged me not to service it since it still winds and keeps time perfectly (My grandfather last had it serviced and maintenance in 2012). Salesman basically said to do a full servicing when it stops keeping time correctly or it doesn’t wind properly. Watch still keeps time perfectly to this day.
@@Bapu4President Man, I just wanna say you should get in touch with Wristwatch Revival to maybe get him to service it. Might get a super cool video along with a servicing
@@Bapu4President definitely ask wristwatch revival!!
I've been down several rabbit holes before stumbling onto your videos.
You've educated me and definitely saved me a fortune. Thank you.
Quartz watches could tick faster. But they almost always limit it to 1 second ticks to save battery life. But they could have quarter second ticks if they chose to.
316 stainless is also used for boats and seashore environments. While it is a bit softer than 304 (‘regular’ stainless steel), it was designed to take corrosion much better. I don’t know what the L adds to the mix. 304 is not really inferior though. It should be tougher to dent and scratch I presume. It probably also builds rust a bit quicker. For other appliances I prefer it over 316.
The "L" stands for low-carbon. I don't know what that does, only that it is what the L stands for.
@@watchspotting as far as I know carbon is used to harden steel. It can also make the steel more brittle. A higher carbon content is used in knives to give them better edge retention for instance.
The L stands for loooosseeeerrrrrr
Jokes aside great information from previous commenters 🙌
@@MaNNeRz91 I thought L stands for Loveable. Lololol
L stands for low carbon, and the lower the carbon, the lower the hardness AND corrosion
This video was everything I needed ! I’m watch shopping for my man and I was majorly confused due to the options and price ranges !
Glad to be of service 💪
One quibble and only because I work exclusively in 304L and 316L. 304 is not inferior to 316. It's actually harder and has a higher melting point. Where 316 fares better is in corrosion resistance when exposed to salts and acids. 316 though is also easier to machine because of its Molybdenum content which makes it (relatively) softer than its cousin 304. The Moly also gives 316 a better corrosion resistance in its astinic barrier. That being said, the average human would be hard pressed to see any difference in the two metals over the course of the natural life of a watch.
thanks !
Ben, you are killing it in watch RUclips. I really appreciate that you don't talk about Rolex or Lange watches like half the rest of this place, and keep things relatable to things that 99% of watch enthusiasts actually care about and can relate to.
It feels less like a product ad or lecture and more like just talking to a knowledgeable mate in a pub about a shared passion for watches.
Incisive, deep, entertaining, critical, yet still humble and chill. Others may have super high production value but yours are definitely the easiest to watch.
Rolex is for hippies, go for Patek, JLC, or Blancpain if you have to go to the beach.
Congratulations on 100,000 Ben! So well deserved. Absolute legend! Keep up the great work!
as beginner all of these seem like very intuitive, sensible and helpful tips
I already have a few watches, and I'm not really looking for new ones but your videos, the style and your personality are awesome. Keep doing the videos, you really deserve more recognition
i love how realistic the suggestions are instead of directly pointing them to mid level priced watches
Such an insightful video for a beginner like me!
I'd entered my card details on the MVMT website and almost bought one of their watches and fortunately out of nowhere I stumbled across this video.
Thank you for enlightening newbies like me, Ben!
Kudos to your efforts that go into making such videos.
Had a similar story years ago, I was also saved by a RUclipsr now I'm part of the fandom, hope your journey goes well
@@mdrglxix3699 Thank you! Went through 7-8 more videos and now I've ordered myself a Seiko 5 sports to kickstart my journey as novice into the world of horology
@@mayur.narang Good to hear, a Seiko 5 is certainly a lot better than a MVMT!
Seiko (and their Orient) is a good choice for any luxury watches below 50k . It’s costlier in India 🇮🇳 than the US 🇺🇸 though.
In my opinion these cheap digital Casios or their Edifice series are very versatile. Many Edifice models go well with both a suit or when you're just running to the grocery.
This is a SUPER comprehensive how-to of watches, and is a great entry video for anyone getting into the hobby of watches. Probably the best I’ve seen on RUclips. Terrific work bro! Keep it up!
Hey, one of my favourite RUclipsrs!
Ben, you give the horological industry and hobby a lot of class. Fantastic videos that I look forward to watching. Great job.
Great video Ben, I've only recently stumbled across your channel and I completely agree with your points especially on brands. having owned an Armani watch in the past, I can tell you from experience that they're a tad overrated. This was because of the fact that the battery life was poor, it required changing after every couple of months, whereas most watches have 2-3 year life span. I eventually changed it after 2 years and got a Sekonda watch that I still have now and works well bearing in mind I got in 2018. I've only had to change the battery twice in the space of 6 years.
My best bit of advice is to everyone is to go for watch specialist brands such as Accurist, Seiko, Citizen, Casio, Lorus, Sekonda, Rotary, Tissot (look for discounts anything under £250 is a good price as these can be quite pricey) as opposed to designer brands despite how alluring they may seem, you'll thank me later haha. The specialist ones will not only have a better build quality, but they'll last considerably longer as well.
That's it! I've been looking at mechanical watches too long. I recognised the Seagull 1963 movement (ST1901) the instant you started talking about mechanical watches.
Hi Ben,just wanted to say that I really enjoy your channel and I find it so informative 👍
I know a bit about watches, have seen many videos. This is the best intro summary I've seen.
the 1963 has one of the most beautiful movements for its relatively cheap price, love that watch.
Congrats on crossing 100k subs Ben!!
Great video!
I would suggest go for black resin case for Casio, as the chrome or gold coating on resin case will peel off over time. If metal-looking case is a must, go for real steel not resin with coating.
Oh Ben, I think you've more or less nailed the 'whole watch thing', which isn't an easy thing to do!!!!! I have watches that span more or less the whole range of what's available including Moon/Space travel? Thanks again, have a great Christmas and stay safe!
I've got quite skinny wrists but wear a fossil mega machine. Have had nothing but compliments and you definitely realise when you forget to put it on in the morning 😂 I've got smaller watches too but I do love the chunky ones
An automatic winding movement comes under the category of mechanical movement. I would say instead we have: quartz, manual or automatic wound mechanical watches. Just being pedantic with the Queens English vs the American.lol. I really like the way you cover watches anywhere from any price. Specifically Quartz and sub 100$ mechanicals. Not a lot of watch RUclips channels take these seriously, unless it's to tear up a fashion watch they've never seen. I remember you did a vid on some Ali Express watch,(don't remember the name) but you took it seriously and did a real, thoughtful review. Yeah, most of those watches are shall we say, Crap, in the end. But you have the integrity to treat a review of a Cadison just as seriously as a Patek. Thank you for it.
Great content
You really did a great job speaking to non-watch people
I enjoyed seeing this and can share this when trying to explain my watches to my friends
Thanks
The Ginault watch at the end looks absolutely amazing... Looks every bit as good as a Rolex... Starting to think about spending 1.5k on a watch....
Incredible! I’ve been subscribed to this channel for 3 months now and that’s the video that I was hoping to see from the beginning! Thanks a lot
Excellent video!! I had the same idea in works like 2 years ago but never finished it 😄.
Congrats on passing 100K as well
Dang! I didnt know that the watches shown on the video is listed in chronological order! Now I have to rewatch it again!
Terrific video Ben as always. Thank you mate 👍
Congratulations on 100k Ben!!
Excellent video I think I did it right. I just purchased my first watch to start my collection. I went vintage look timex q reissue under 200.😊
This should be a go-to piece for literally anyone new to the hobby. Outstanding work Ben.
Though why Spaghetti Scammetti didn't get a recommendation boggles me.
I'd actually like to see a small run of that watch honestly. 🤣
I didn't expect my gussl watch to look so good. There is no doubt that it is worth it.
I've just and received a lovely Tandorio 62MAS style with a PT5000 movement via Aliexpress, all good, it's a lovely watch and UK duty etc paid. Yes I was sceptical, but I pulled the pin and I love just love it!
this was absolutely FANTASTIC Ben! As always!
Great transitions and explanations! Will be sending to all my beginner watch friends when they ask for a recommendation for their first watch.
Waiting for my junghans max bill 34mm sapphire (6.8" wrists) mechanical sapphire to arrive! I love its simplicity
I've got it now, I keep staring at it lol. Looks nice on. I have to wind it twice a day to be sure it will keep ticking. Though I think at first I was afraid to wind it to the natural limit i.e. until you feel resistance
I knew all of this. But when I first started to get into watches, I would’ve loved this video. Awesome video bro.
Thank u! Very helpful video, I'm planning to buy my first watch and this is a godsend
Good video Ben, very helpful for the newer enthusiasts.
Cheers mate 👍👍
Finally explains water ratings. Brilliant! Very (en)lightening.
Well i have to say that i already knew most of the things that were said here, but I also learned some new things . When i was a kid i wore all kinds of counterfeit watches, Chinese copies, the worst of the worst , but now at 40 years old, i am no longer willing to spend money on watches of dubious quality and origin, I prefer if I still i want an ok watch, to buy from a respectable brand, even if i don't necessarily buy an expensive watch , recently with the occasion of the Black Friday sales i had the opportunity to buy at very good prices some quartz watches from Casio, one for me one for my wife and one to give as a gift, also on the last hundred meters, i caught another good deal on Black Friday at a imposible to refuse price, another watch this time an Orient watch, automatic, for me, until i saw this video, i wasn't sure if i had made an inspired choice regarding watch brands, choosing Casio and Orient, now i know . 😀
Thank you Ben, cracking video!
So that’s why my second hand misses the markers! Thanks I never knew that.
One golden piece of advice when buying a watch, but you don't know anything about watches and you're not interested into the topic...
*Just put everything aside and buy yourself a Casio G-shock (whatever variant you may fancy). And you're good for life.*
true authentic g shocks are indestructible and kinda fashionable too
Consise, clearly framed, and pleasently delivered guidelines for less experienced watch purchasers. Thanks for simplifying a subject which otherwise can be impervious to common sense.
Great advice throughout ben.this will help a lot of buyers for sure.
Lol I caved into Black Friday peer pressure and bought an armani exchange watch without knowing anything about watches (I have one Skagen watch that I got as a gift, it's alright) then just recently discovered your channel. It was only $50 though and I think it looks nice, so it'll hold me over until I get a real starter watch. No biggie
Great video for those just starting out, it’s easy to forget how much information is out there, to have it well explained in one place is a great resource. Thank you for taking the time to do this!
Just bought my first watch yesterday Seiko srpe53k1
Thanks for the great video. I have stuck with the same brand for almost 20 years, Sekonda, the brand has never let me down and are reasonbly priced.
There is nothing like the feeling you get when your want to buy that classy watch for someone special and left with the wonder "what would she like??" ... I have to tell say, you posted this at a perfect time. Even with some kind of idea of the workings of the watch industry, it's always great to know Ben once again has my back with a quick refresh especially around the holiday's. Thanks again Ben, all the best for you and your family over the holiday's! Stay safe
Awesome video mate, really great for newcomers to the hobby or just anyone that is struggling with what to buy. Also don't forget about solar movements like eco-drive, they are superior to regular quartz and offer even lower maintenance. But you hit the nail on the head with this one. And massive congratulations on 100k too. Well deserved mate.
A black citizen all brushed promaster diver is next on my list
Love this, although I would have left the Quarz part and added Spring Drive 😅
36mm is fine for most men. This used to be the only size the datejust came in. It's only recently that men have got a bit funny about sub 40mm cases. I think it's silly. I wear my late fathers 36mm Datejust all the time and it looks fine. I also wear a red Casioak and that look fine too.
I have smaller wrists but I prefer a watch in the 40-45 mm range. I think Ben is a bit too concerned with dial size and that fussing over a millimeter or two is nitpicking a bit too much. Ultimately it's a matter of personal taste. I inherited several nice watches from the 50s, 60s and 70s recently (Seiko, Hamilton, other nice brands) and wow are they small, even for my wrists. I don't see many watches in that small size being worn these days. Of course, fashion is a pendulum and tastes may run back towards the small watches someday. Then my whole collection will be out of style 🤣
For sure, I honestly find it pretty effeminate if a guy gets so caught up that a watch is not at least 40mm.
36mm was a classic size for decades and it still looks amazing.
@@stimpy_thecat fashion and style are two different things. A vintage 36mm automatic will always be stylish. An oversize abomination like a big daddy is fashion.
I own a Timex digital, a Casio quartz and an Amazefit semi smart watch. But my favorite is a recently acquired HMT hand wind 36 mm. There is something about these mech watches that's so attractive.
Congrats on 100k Ben👍🏾
Thank you so much, that explained a lot!
A lot!
Amazing video. This video pretty much sums up Everything
Excelent content, you've got one more subscriber! Thanks for your work
"Watches rarely look too small"
- Yeah, well, you should see what a 40mm bracelet watch looks like on my stupidly wide platform-type flat wrist. My two most beloved watches are 46mm and 47mm because they actually fit the breadth of my wrist perfectly. I'm not even a big guy, I just have broad and flat wrists.
"Rarely" ≠ always
Clear, honest, informative. Nice one, Ben.
3:32 This Casio Lineage is all you need: classic look of analog watch, features of digital watch, solar powered and constant time sync of atomic watch.
Never buy luxury watch as your first watch. You wouldn't know much on watches at this moment and your taste for watches will definitely change as time pass.
3:06 304L isn't inferior to 316L, it just comes with different properties. In 316L emphasis is put on corrosion resistance. This is a stainless steel that is developed to function in high corrosive environment, like sea shores. It probably also deals better with sweat in contact with the skin. The trade-off is that it is a bit softer than 304L. 304L on the other hand has more tensile strength and tends to be a bit harder, which should offer better dent and scratch resistance. I don't know whether there is a difference in allergenic properties between the two, but that could also be the case. One misconception with stainless steels is that they do not rust. They can, but they are less susceptible. Always avoid contact with strong alkaloids like chloride for this harms the stainless properties of steel.
Also avoid fashion watches.
Congrats on 100k subscribers Ben. Well deserved. Your videos are great.
My bottom line is buying something that really catches your eye, is reliable and falls comfortably within your budget. Great info video btw? 👍😎🇬🇧
Total coincidence that we see a Timex when you mention that the ticking of some quartz watches can be audible. Well played.
Depends on the person, my "Solar powered Timex Expedition Acadia" ticks but I find that soothing rather than annoying, and it's otherwise fit to function for a light duty / backup watch, planning yo get a casio G-Shock square for heavy duty stuff and have a "Boderry Urban skeletal watch" coming to test out as my first mechanical/automatic, will probably collect a few better known brands later if I sufficiently "catch the watch bug"
My real life experience of getting the first watch: December 2021, I made an impulsive decision by buying watch based on just specs. After ordering I realised it was a dress watch and I needed a field watch so I cancelled the order after it had already reached my doorstep. The second watch I ordered was perfect and new but had no tags and warranty. So I returned it. I have now realised that I will only buy a watch from the official website or from the store itself. Still haven't got one yet. Probably January now for me for first watch.
You shouldn't worry to much about warranty, ive got a watch from the 70s, that's never been serviced and its still running well, the chances are your watch will long outlast any warranty and by generations if its a quality swiss watch, its generally not something to worry too much about. What did you buy out of interest?
Timex navi harbour....
@@sufiyan.9535 nice
I love this so much. Your videos really sparked my interest (and emptied my wallet).
Found your channel this year so thank you for such interesting videos!
I would also add the maintenance cost when choosing a mechanical watch. The more complications, the more expensive the maintenance and repair.
100 000. Gongrats!
I have got a big wrist I just think that 39 watch’s fit so well
A great guide, enjoyed watching this!
This is how I think of watch categories: Smart watches, Digital watches, Automatic and Quartz (battery and ticky second hand) come in these styles; Field, Diver's, Sports, Chrono, Pilot's and Dress. In quartz you have just the battery kind, solar (also called eco-drive by Citizen).
In mechanical watches, you have these days mostly Automatic, which is self winding, or you can still find manual winding watches, which usually are a little thinner. You are supposed to have mechanical watches serviced, but it does'nt make much sense with an inexpensive watch. After 20 years of solid use without servicing, you may have an inaccurate or non-functional watch.
Quartz batteries can last from 2-10 years depending on the model. Some quality solar watches can last 20+ years on the original battery. Quartz are usually much more accurate than mechanical watches.
Smart watches have the shortest lifespan, I think under 5 years would be average, possibly you could stretch it to 10 years before it wore out or became completely obsolete. Daily charging your battery can be a pain, not my cup of tea.
Casio G-Shock IMO are a category of their own, a tough watch with either digital, ana-digi or even Smartwatch variants.
I love the idea of a mechanical watch. No battery. Something elegant about winding the watch. It’s relationship to quartz feels like a smart watch
Just be aware that a mechanical movement in any entry-level watch only works for about 5 to 10 years before it would need to be serviced by a watchmaker. Servicing a watch usually doesn't make economic sense in this price range because the service would cost more than the watch itself. Swapping out the entire movement is an option sometimes, if the type of movement required can be sourced.
And just to get ahead of a bunch of anecdotes from other watch people who might reply to this: Yes, I know that many watches run just fine for much longer, but you absolutely cannot rely on that always being the case.
@@grmpf The service would cost more than the watch itself? How much is service? I was thinking like $100 or so every 5 years. This is based on nothing of course.
@@Mehwhatevr Well, yes, that would be roughly the starting point for the cost of a service, maybe closer to 150 these days, but that's about the price range Ben is recommending here for your first mechanical watch, isn't it? Do you have a specific watch in mind?
@@grmpf I suppose since this video, my eyes have moved towards watches that cost $1000+ or in that region.
mate you thought of everything! thank you for this guide!
Though a watch "enthusiast", really enjoyed the vid!!! Thanks!
Cheers Kamen 💪
Ben, thank you for all you've done this year. Merry Christmas mate :) brilliant vid
Very helpful video, thank you!
Thanks for video!
Found Bering watches and they ideal for me! Love their thinnest and looks.
Very good buying guide mate, good consumer advice 👍
Usually seiko watches look so bad at photos (on Amazon for example) but they are very good in real life!
Absolutely a class video!
An important note on chronographs, they cost quite a bit more to service!
I couldn't wear chromed brass watches if I wanted to... which i do not. I am allergic to Nickel and these plated watches would cause a painful reaction on my wrist. I can wear 316L Stainless however 304 is a no go, I have no idea if I could wear a Rolex 904L as I don't want to spent that much... but my understanding is that 904L has a much higher nickel content % than 316L.
Amazing outro bruv
Great video, except for one comment I have. You mentioned that you'll only be able to see the differences in a 1000+ watch under a microscope, but that's not really the case. If you want to see and notice the differences in 30 short seconds you do, but the finer details and craftsmanship will be pretty readily noticed within a few days of consistent wear. And as you get more acclimated you start to notice the differences even faster too.
You did an amazing job!
The video is very clear and it's very useful for beginners, you accent is clear as well so it's not too hard to understand for non-native speakers.
I'm going to watch other videos from your channel (I've just discovered today)
Thanks for this video, I'm new to watches and am really amazed by the Orient Open Heart automatic. It's the kind of feature JLC would make you pay $20k for but for an every-man budget and from a solid Japanese brand, not a knock off from China.
Check out Tissot if you like that open heart thing. I used to like it when I first started, now I hate it LOL.
Invicta 1953 for less than 90€ with seiko NH35 movement seems to be a great deal, agree?
That actually is a nice movement. Better than the entry level Seiko's themselves.
Great work mate, always a pleasure.
great video ben!
I own the Seagull. iI is amazing.