Agree with most but Citizen, especially recently. I recently purchased the Fujitsubo diver and the BN0220 and both have quickly become 2 of my favorites: Super Titanium, unique yet appealing designs, solid build quality, and affordability make them great!
@E28 Forever I agree with you on the titanium, eco drive, sapphire, radio controlled watches they are fantastic. Love my PMD56-2952. Perfect everyday watch
I've only been following your channel for a few weeks, but after going down the rabbit hole, I can say that you're in my top 3 review channels! Cheers!!
I really like this video. I don’t mind that three of the watch brands I own are featured here because it’s healthy to be reminded once in a while that they are just watches at the end of the day. A fascinating hobby. Personal preferences can and should differ, and above all, peer pressure to hate or obsess over brands is toxic. Purchase what makes you stay up at nights and wear the fuck out of them. Truth is (or that is what I’ve experienced) that nobody except you can appreciate fully what you are wearing on your wrist.
@@dunderhay9169 ... with you there two Vostoks, two Citizens and a Tissot. I also like tomato ketchup, love mint chocolate chip ice cream, peanut butter and jam, cheese on EVERYTHING (hey I'm American what do you expect) ... as for cricket ... well I just don't understand it 🤷♂️.
It's a great point. I think watch collectors get too concerned by buying right when buying right should just mean what's right for you. Because the truth is, how many people ever really notice what's on your wrist
Get hold of an Invicta Rolex copy for £50-£60 and you can’t go wrong. A decent Seiko movement and good water resistance makes for a great everyday beater that can be worn anywhere. I need and want my watches to be spot on accurate, so Casio models with time synchronisation or The Citizen with 5 seconds a year accuracy, or better, are my personal favourites. Quartz wins every time as far as I am concerned, although a mechanical watch with display back makes for an interesting display piece.
Quartz is the superior technology and this is indisputable. To me all the commentators that go on about the 'soul' of a mechanical watch are the same as those record collectors that will lecture you till your ears get gangrene about how 'warm vinyl sounds.
@@nobbynoris would you genuinely say a £2/$2 quartz movement is undisputedly superior technology to a rolex or omega watch with metas/superlative chronometer spec? I know what I’d rather have 7 years down the line. (And ever day until then… and after)
You should really check out the JDM Citizen stock...they are really nice, classy, and timeless. The NB1050 line really took off here in the states, such nice watches that fill the SARB void now that Seiko dumped the line
I recently had a glimpse at the Citizen annual business report with the executives mugshots in it. It looks like a darn retirement home's yearbook and it instantly made me understand why their watches look the way they do. I love Citizen for quality and specs, I think Eco Drive is awesome, I cherished my gnarly NY0040 auto diver for decades and it is still a great watch, but they really need to get their designs sorted out. I just can’t find anything remotely wearable, no matter how hard I'm trying (which applies to many popular brands btw.).
I really love my Vostoks, theyve taken a lot of punishment and they are my daily drivers. But they definitely need a good replacement bezel and strap in order to look good.
@THE MAD WATCH COLLECTOR no problem with saying what you feel! I agreed with all the points you made on all the watches tbh. The Vostoks themselves definitely have their faults as well
Nice video, Russel. I just wanted to add a little correction about the Vostok Amfibias: they actually have all of them cases made of true stainless steel (not just plated) and also about Tissot: I know you are not a fan of dress watches but they got some pretty good offerings from their heritage line, the Le Locle, Carson, PR 16 with some nice finishing and sizing for them guys who just got into the hobby and want to buy a true mechanical watch with some decent ETA 2824 movement without spending a lot of cash. Cheers!
To be fair, Vostok have been producing fully stainless cases for many years now. They have a range called "Amfibia" as opposed to Amphibia, which are very modern decent quality watches. I've got the red sea and scuba versions which are easily on par with my Seiko SKX's, although the movements are the same one's they've been putting in their watches for decades. Crude but pretty tough and I've regulated mine to within 5 seconds per 24 hours. Vostok have an old world charm and deserve their place in any collection.
My first "nice" watch I added to my collection was a Citizen Promaster Eco-Drive diver's watch. It has its own style without being weird looking, and it comes in mechanical versions as well (Fugu, anyone?). Besides the Promaster Marine line, there aren't any more watches of Citizen that I would buy. Maybe one of their titanium Eco-Drive watches, but barely.
Yeah I've got a fugi , it's a nice watch , with an eight o'clock crown, soft rubber strap and pretty accurate, about seven over a seconds a day fast , plus anti magnetic, all the bezel markers are on point and on the whole pretty happy with my purchase, Got three Seiko's in the same year and they aren't half as accurate and were nearly twice the price, especially after having to get a strapcode band which cost £128 , which took the samarai over£570 all told , which was nearly twice the price of the citizen, So value and quality I have to give it to the promaster fugi Also got my first Swiss watch which was a Hamilton khaki scuba desk diver, which has an ETA movement and on a three day power reserve only gain three seconds over 80hours Huge difference between the Seiko's and Hamilton, The Seiko's look better monster and samurai but cost a lot without the accuracy of the Swiss piece, still a four watch collection for under £2000 with warranties
Over xmas I won a Citizen Promaster NY-0086 (Pepsi) from Jody at Just one more watch! I hadn't considered a Citizen before. Thought they were too much of a mall watch. But I have come to love the Promaster. It is just the right size. The pepsi bezel looks good, and I've regulated it to be around +/-4 or so. Damn good watch. I'm wearing it on a blue single pass zulu right now!
I mostly agree, but I love Tissot. A true Swiss brand that makes solid high quality watches for a very nice price. Iblike the T counterbalance on the Seastar 😁
The watch that drew me into this preoccupation was a Tissot but I have to say, those huge Seastar chrono diver things are buttfuck ugly. And why the hell do you even need a chronograph complication on a diver watch anyway?
I love my Tissot PR100. 39mm. Classic elegant styling. It's currently on a Hirsch lizard strap. I intensely dislike the new PRX, with the chunky angular lugs and bracelet styling.
the PRX 35mm sorts out that lug to lug problem, fits great for small/medium sized wrists and is well finished for the price (powermatic 35mm version coming soon also)
@@nobbynoris I agree. I specificly mean the Seastar 1000 36mm. So comfy on the wrist with the smaller size and super accurate. I hear they are releasing a thinner 40mm version of it that isnt huge like the 2000 or whatever its called.
Although I agree with most of your opinions about Citizen, they make some lovely watches if you are willing to pay 500 dolars plus. Jody reviewed one that looked like a grand seiko recently and it was lovely.
I love Tissot but you are correct about their lack of availability of 37-39 mm watches. They have a lot of affordable nice designs but many of them are 41 or above like the Visodates. Wish they made more of them at 38mm
The PRX is actually based on a Tissot Seastar from the 70's when everyone was on that same design bandwagon. Check out some of the Citizen Chronomasters. I certainly hope to own someday
Great video Russ but, I absolutely love my Citizen BM7251-53L. Like you've said in other comments, it took me a while to find one I liked and, after months of searching, that one stuck out to me the most. It's affordable, accurate, and is perfect for my office job or for a night out. One day, you'll see the light, lol.
That's the whole point of Vostok, they're super cheap and almost entirely unchanged since they were first created! You're basically purchasing new old stock, but actually new. It's just a breath of fresh air to purchase something utterly ridiculous and ancient for $80.
@@Fanasz That has not been my experience. I've had several and they've all been super robust. I use them as my beater watch, so they get quite abused and I've never had an issue. And eventually if/when I do, I'll drop it in the bin and pick up another one for $70.
Hands down best video you’ve ever made!!! I really love and appreciate the honesty (And I do have 2 Vostoks 😂 total nostalgic/vintage looking beaters to save some Others ;) I would trust them for depth diving and I do tinker with their mechanics so type 2 person on your list) Don’t worry I have plenty of G Shocks too! THANKS FOR A GREAT VIDEO!!! Keep it up!
tbh, i love it when other enthusiasts don’t like citizen (my favourite brand). it means their prices on the secondary market, especially from japanese sites, are depressed relative to other brands. i don’t disagree with the common criticisms (most models are too large; dials are busy; odd and inconsistent design language), but their current and back catalog is so extensive that it’s still easy to find things to love.
I agree sometimes it feels like a hive mind, but Invicta does release some vintage inspired watches in shocker, vintage sizes like that chronograph or small seconds, it's quartz but they are well priced and you have multiple color ways to choose, I've heard they're good for the price, Invicta's mostly make big ugly mutant looking watches but when they make a good design in a good size, they got it out of the park
I have 4 Invictae - 2 Pro Diver 40mm NH35, a 1953 40mm NH35 and a quartz Speedway chronograph. They are all excellent quality watches and I paid less than $300 for all. Everyone sees the gaudy abominations and thinks 'that's Invicta' and it is. But so is 'classy homage watches' and in the 1953 understated style.
Hey Russell, I tried to look you up to hear more of your original music. I really like the tunes/snippets on the channel. Where can we hear more? I’m a sucker for power pop.
Another good episode. I’ve never really thought about brands I don’t like to much, but if I was to think about it quickly: Bulova, San Martin, Cartier, Accurist, would all come to mind. Slightly off topic, but I am starting to question the pricing of certain luxury stainless steel automatic watches, but that’s not to say I don’t like them (edited for clarity).
Great video! Who else does a display back on a quartz besides Invicta? Grand Seiko has some special 9F releases and, more affordable, Islander Watches come to mind with the Amerigraph. Can’t afford the GS yet myself but I must admit I love seeing the decorated electronics on my Islander.
Citizen is an acquired taste IMHO. I used to ignore this brand because it seemed so boring. But later on in my watch journey I decided to give it a try and see what they offer for the domestic market (JDM). Now it's one of my favorite brands. I am glad that many people in the comments went through the similar discovery or shall I say "rediscovery" of this amazing brand that is unfortunately is misrepresented as just a department store throw away brand in the west.
A good friend of mine has a Promastet pilot from many years. I got one Chrono Pilot used, changed the battery get original armis and I love it. The only "big watch" in my collection but with amazing specs, radiocontrolled. A watch to give to my unexisting grandsons.
@@NathanChisholm041 he???? Who do you think sees this comment first son? Think I gave the brand huge praise ????? They just don’t make a watch I like? I guarantee a lot of your watches is never buy just the same as you probably wouldn’t like mine! You can’t say I’m wrong as it’s my opinion ;)
I do agree, except on the Citizen side. I would have put Seiko there, but to be fair, I’ve got little experience with Seiko watches. Love the channel Russ.
Another quality video Russ! However I have to say I do love my citizen diver as well as my Vostok just out of sheer uniqueness. For brands to add to the list I’m not particularly in love with Tag Huer and Rolex. (Even though I can respect the brand heritage and their importance in horology)
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR My passion is classic Accutron, but my 090 case Scuba Dude is my go to watch when I want to wear something that will take a beating!
PRX is a reissue of their own watch not a homage of the AP. In my opinion, really the only thing that's the same is they both have integrated bracelets. Different case shapes, different bracelet design, etc
And a waffle dial and blue colour the same as an AP! That was the first release , the different dial colours have hidden that fact now but it’s fine, good business from the Swatch group!
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR Ah that is true, dial did match up. I got it in black so it doesn't look so similar at a glance, but that blue really is edging too close. Not as bad as the Maurice Lacroix Aikon though, for me that's a straight homage
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR Just because it has waffle dial doesn't mean its homage. Even if the blue dial is kinda close it, I wouldn't call it homage, maybe it's just me, but I don't see it.🤷
I am a Citizen fanboy myself but I get your point there (somewhat). However, I still think that some of the watches from the Chronomaster line or from the Nature Collection (e.g. CITIZEN NB1060-12L) line are just fantastic
The 70s have a lot to answer for! And I’m not just talking about “flares” and “platform shoes.”😆 On his maiden flight into space, Yuri Gagarin didn’t wear a Boctok. He wore a Poljot Strumanskie (Navigator). A very nice watch (33mm case). I have a reissue of that particular watch.
I have been modding and building watches for many years some of the dials on the Vostok like the Scuba Dude are in the top drawer and a nice one but yes most others are gash. The automatic movement is very very reliable but all of the watches I have modded and kept in my Collection use Seiko Movements as the parts are so much earlier to get hold!
Loved this episode - and heartily agree with everything you said. Also agree that ketchup is gross and cricket is mind numbingly boring. I'd love to see you do a review of the Tag Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 date (esp with the blue dial). It's a gorgeous watch, 40mm case and I think it would be right up your alley.
I have a few of the less busy Citizen Eco Drives, but my Citizen Stiletto has an almost sterile dial. No second hand or complications other than hour and minute. Just a subtle logo and its the one quartz model I've had comments on. Every time I see a Royal Oak I just think those hexagonal "screws" on the case front are just for show and can't be actually operated.
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR Hi Russ! I really like your videos, the inserts, your faces…you really have a talent. I also play tennis and love watches. Will be great to have a match next time I’m in London! My name is Alfredo Guillen and I’m from Mexico…
We're all different (I'm not) but I would have to agree with you for most of these brands. The brands that get my goat are most of the fashion labels that sell cheap watches with a label and sell them for a crazy price. Fashions move fast these days (allegedly) so there is a chance that a fashion watch will be so last year and ignored well before its battery leaps of its mortal coil. Fortunately that tends to affect the fashion conscious buyer so shouldn't apply to me.
Citizen Promaster line, auto and eco drive, is quite nice. The NY0040 with the ink black dial and overall design is quite nicer than the Seiko SKX, which I do not regret selling. Some of the new Promaster titanium are nice. But many department store citizen watches are boring. The Promaster line should be marketed as a sub brand
@@markcherone5411 I have the NY0040 and NY0100 titanium with solid bracelet, and they are beautiful.. I put the NY0040 on a generic engineer bracelet. When I had the Seiko skx I really did not like it as much. The Citizen has such a beautiful dial. I have the BN0151, the eco drive diver. I like it too, although I find the NY have more attractive dials and cases. But now there is a new BN with orange dial I want to see, and the BN0227 full lume that appeals to me.
@@markcherone5411 the BN0151 comes with the blue rubber band. I do not like the bands with the accordion folds. Actually it looks nice with an orange band
It's only anecdotal, but I've heard some worrying stories about the longevity of Eco Drive caps or batteries. I'd want to check into that before buying in. Seiko, I'm more inclined to trust from the get-go. Sometimes reputation means something, and sometimes it doesn't.
A lot of great points! I kind of feel the same about Tissot. The "T" counterbalance looks terrible and I'm not a big fan of how the prx sits on the wrist, although, I would love to own a Tissot gentleman. I don't have to financially struggle with the decision, but can we mention Richard Mille!? I just don't get it, I know, movement, status, watch making, but the things are horrific looking. I mean, at least half of those invictas and the AP concept are just chasing that "style". That AP concept is their obvious answer to the popularity of RM in that space. It's a great case of "don't forget what got you there". All of that being said, I have my eyes fixated on longines for my next watch. (I think). Now just to narrow down which one! P.S. the Vostok fanclub is coming for you.😂🤣
@@FRST2012 I'm with You'z on the R.M thing, but I've had a few Tissots and they've left a good mark on Me, I like 'em.. not ALL of them, some of the designs I'm not keen on, but I think they really hit it with the PRX's..all of them.
@@mrmagoo.3678 I like the prx and admittedly have never tried one on or even handled one. In all of the photos I have seen, it just seems to lay goofy on the wrist. I would happily own one, but the Tissot gentleman just speaks to me. It seems like that "do all" watch. It makes me want to send the kids to grandma and grandpa's, pack a bag, grab the tissot gentleman and a few straps and take the wife somewhere on a long weekend getaway. That watch just seems like it would fit in and be a joy to wear all over the place.
@@robertmorano2372 I think I might be biased towards Tissot Maybees, they were my first 'Swiss Made' so I think I look through Rose tinted specs when I look at Tissot, but them PRX really tickle that spot for Me :)
I do have a few Citizens and think they are great watches for the money. Very reliable, keep great time, and think the models I purchased look good. With this said I have become a a Sekoholic and have purchased 4 of them within the last year in addition to a Hamilton khaki king. I also love my Casio G-shocks. I do not own any high end watches but enjoy what I own today. I have been eying the Tudor BB58 blue dial. Maybe one day I will purchase one. I am just too cheap and afraid I would abuse it. I really enjoyed this video and happy you got this off your chest! I would love to hear your wife’s opinion on the Invicta Gladiator😂
I love the Tissot PRX LOL! All good though, I get it. Really starting to get some serious hate for Rolex. I talked to a Rolex snob last week that just could not understand that I was not interested in a Rolex over a Tudor or Omega. I was so close to being like you need to expand your horizon my friend, they are not the only show in town.
That was again a great fun!!i was laughing from the beginning until the end!! Quarz movement with showcase back, you just nailed it!!! Great show, Russ!!!
Let me start by saying I got into mechanical/automatic watches in 2019 because of a coworker. One day he mentioned Vostok and told me that they were a Russian brand. I had absolutely no idea that the Russians produced wrist watches. I then began checking them out on RUclips and about a week later ordered my first Vostok watch. Today I own about ten to twelve Vostok watches, mostly Amphibias and a couple of Komandirskies, and love modding them! I don't know exactly what it is about these watches that I'm so drawn too, but love them nonetheless. I also have several Seikos, a Hamilton, a couple of Orient watches, and a couple of Chinese watches in my watch collection. P.S. I coincide with you that Invicta watches are just absolutely hideous. 🤢🤮
My brotha! Your story is so close to mine it is simply eerie. My coworker wore a Vostok (scuba dude) that got me interested in mechanical autos; I didn't know one could be had for relatively low cost - I thought Rolex & Omega had the only sweeping seconds hands. Got an Amphibia, an Orient Mako II, then a Seiko 5. Fast forward & I have 13 various Vostoks, like you, mostly Amphibias, a couple Komandirskes. I really have a fondness for the round Amohibs, but the weird "barrel" case/cushion case versions are wild, too! Orients are my go-to for modding bc the parts are easy to find. The war in Ukraine has turned Vostoks I to a bit more of a collectible so I'm leaving mine stock (except for swapping out those dreadful pressed folded braclets, ugh). It's a full-on addiction, but a harmless one. I'm about to throw down on my first "luxury" tool watch, and am 🔥d up for it: the Soon-to-be mine Sinn 104 I St Sa. Next, and it'll have to wait for a while, the Seiko SARB017 (OG Alpinist) 💸💸💸💸
Couldn't agree more however there is among the Citizens one that I totally adore and love and this is the bullhead from the 70s, the 8110. The dimensions of this watch(es) just speak to me. What do you think about this one also the reissues that came out just recently?
Agree, but why not include the hate for mint chop chip flavour ice cream? Me thinks if you don't like that, then ask for a stracciatella. Even pronouncing it correctly deserves a cone (esp. when tipsy).
Most modern Tudors. Hate 'em. Looks like Mom and Dad got really excited because little Timmy used all the shapes when he drew the dial and hands. Circles and squares and triangles and diamonds and rectangles...and well....we're kind of out of room for more shapes, so that'll be enough.
Can see your point of view however the friction bezel on the Vostok is better than the ratcheting unidirectional bezel. For this reason alone it is really easy to use as a countdown timer whereas the unidirectional you have to spin it a few times. Regarding the unidirectional function of most dive watches it is just a fantasy they hardly ever take them to the BEACH let alone diving. Had taken my vostok to the beach many times over the summer and didn't even think about it. A Sicko guy would not wear their Sicko watch LOL....
Regarding Citizen I certainly do not agree. In fact I think that 9 series movement by Citizen is unbeatable by Seiko. Thin, 4hz and very accurate and reliable movement. Seiko must be the only brand in the world making $1500 watches with 3hz movements inside.
I'm pretty sure Tissot is just meant to make you get a Longines. They're usually right next to each other in boutiques and the prices often overlap at the high-end Tissot/entry-level or quartz Longines. (not that I have anything against Tissot or Quartz).
Ah, but there must be some love for the Citizen Pro Master NY0040..a direct competitor with the Seiko SKX007, and a proper dive watch to boot! Mines the fully lumed dial version & is, as you Brits say, a cracking great watch for the money.
New sub here, watch enthusiast and amateur collector (meaning I can't afford to spend thousands on my watches 😂) but I love you're videos! Highly entertaining and very well made, if I might say so. Hilarious. Keep up the great work! Thanks
I'm a fan of the Rolex homages from Invicta and I love the Citizen Eco-Drives that I own, but your criticisms are all valid. We all see value and style in watches differently so it's always fun to see what other people think about the various brands out there. I will say that you've opened my eyes to how good some of the Casio models are.
I agree with much of your choices. I always say JLC should take AP place in the trinity. I also add that I pretty much despise Rolex. They are not at all about the watches.. it's all about the hype, wealth flexing, and elite. Just my 2cents. I also have to say...I bought a Vostok after all the youtubers talked about em...and it is rubbish lol. But it's still kind of neat IMO to have a Russian made in house movement. Kind of an odd duck. It's rarely worn though lol.
Rolex that were made in the 60s and 70s, though, were built like tanks and last a lifetime. Back then they were like the other Swiss makers and competed side by side. Then came the 80s and the era of bling and insane prices. For example, in 1965, a basic Oyster Perpetual was $175. ($1698 today). A similar quality 1965 Longines was $140 (my dad got one as a graduation gift from college - about $1300 in today's money). But nothing like the insanity we see now. Reaching to spend $140-175 USD back in 1965 was a lot, but not impossible if you really wanted it. But now.. $6000 for a "poverty spec" Rolex? No way.
Orient has fallen out of favour with me. Their Bambino (Gen II, ver 2 - white sunburst dial with rose gold hands and numerals) was my first ever mechanical watch, thanks to TGV of course. Loved it to bits, even if it was a bit chunky for a dress watch, and I was sure I'd buy a Ray or Mako as a diver next... but now several years later, none of their watches appeals to me. There's always just something that makes their designs feel off to me. Whether it's the dial, hands, numerals, date window, adding open heart... Even the Kamasu just gets a 'meh' from me.
I agree! For me (at least with their sport watches) it's their obsession with the Day/Date complication. I don't even like date complications on a watch, but who doesn't know what day it is? It's an ugly and useless complication. And they are not the value they once were.
Good vid. Invicta… ok I get it. To me though Invicta was the gateway drug to watch collecting. Decent movement on the pro diver for the money, looks ok.
All fair points 😂 I do love my Eco Drives. I see Jody finally found a Citizen he likes. Of course it's a JDM model. They do get props for making the most accurate quartz movement, the Caliber 0100 +/- 1 Second a year is nothing to sneeze at 🤣. Another awesome vid Russ! ❤
My first good mechanical watch was a Vostok. I have several of them, both old (ussr) and new. The komandirkie line has the chrome plated brass cases and the cartoonish dials that you were referring to. They are traditionally 100m wr and hand wound. They were origanilly designed for the red army as field watches. The amphibia was always a much more serious watch and always came with SS case and 200mwr. a few special early models had 300mwr and are rare and collectable. The soviet era amphibia also had a hand wound movement. They transitioned to an automatic movement around the time of the USSR collapse. Almost all of the soviet era and most of the current amphibias have more "Serious" functional dials. In the past few years they have been making "high end" komandirskies that use the auto movement from amphibia and have SS cases with 200wr blurring the line between the 2 tiers of watches. Conversely, they have also been putting some of the cartoony looking komandirskie dials on amphibias. blurring the lines even further. The tank you were showing was originally a komandirskie dial. The movement does not have a high beat count, but it is made in house to this day. It is extemely reliable, can be fairly accurate and It is easy to adjust and tinker with. There are several case styles and sizes to choose from so you can find something to compliment almost any wrist size. The biggest downside that you did not mention is that due to recent events in eastern europe, availabilty is down, prices have risen so the $80 watch is now closer to $100-120 to over $200. Delivery takes forever and a day and getting replacement parts are getting more difficult to find. Lastly, depending upon the political views of the company you keep, you may get some hate for wearing a Russian watch. For approximately the same amount of money you can get a Seiko powered Heimdallar Seestern or Steeldive from Ali express for the same money and arguably better quality. There are also kits on Ali express to make your own custom Seiko powered watch for around the same price. Since they all use Seiko NH35 and 36 movements, they can modded easily and cheaply as well. You can also get a nice mid-tier Orient for around the same money as some of the Amphibia SE models, with definitely better quality. I kind of agree with you that Vostok might belong on this list but for much different reasons ,as I just mentioned. I just dont feel like they are the bargain that they used to be and there are better alternatives at this time.
It's funny, this is the first time I have heard someone say they do not like Tissot and I have watched countless watch reviews over the past year! I have never owned one but they were a great choice for me to buy my brother a wedding gift last year. I wanted to get him involved in the mechanical world of watches and bought him a Le Locle Powermatic 80 Dress watch. He loves it and I loved it enough to buy it (I try not to buy somebody something that I wouldn't own myself). Loved the video! I am also not a fan of Invicta at ALL!
Tissot are.. tricky. A few of their watches are excellent and well done, but they are kind of the Citizen of Swiss watches in that a lot of them are just.. designed and set up oddly. For instance, almost everything sporty looks.. terrible as he mentioned, except for the black on black Supersport. The blue and black version is sharp, but WHY does it come with a $10 fabric band lifted off of a $40 Swatch? Stuff like that. The Carson and Tradition also are good, but surrounded by a sea of odd designs (yes, the PRX is in that list), and only in certain color combinations. All bronze everything.. why? And, as you mentioned, the Le Locle (though there isn't quartz version, so $$$) So they make fantastic watches... provided you are willing to find the 10 or so that look clean and classy out of the hundreds of other brain-dead designs and filler. Again, just like Citizen. Lol.
If I'm being honest, Grand Seiko is a brand which has no design which really speaks to me. I have tried to like them, because everyone kinda does - but I'd rather pick up a couple of Vostoks. (;
I like Citizen. I like Vostok. I agree with your other choices though. Each to their own, it's what makes watch collecting so fun. If someone's happy wearing a massive gaudy Invicta then good on em, I say !!!
I would add IWC, but I may be in the minority with that take. I just don't see the appeal at the prices they sell for. 100% agree with cricket , I don't care for any sport where the matches last longer than my Hamilton's 80 hour power reserve, thank you.
I love the video! On the topic of truth off our chest, I must say I love the slightly less abrupt and jarring transitions you used in this video compared to others.
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR I'm kidding, for sure brands are a personal thing. I'm a Citizen sucker like you're a Seiko sucker. Not everything they do is great but I've got some solid nostalgia, like my first dress watch being a corporate prize my dad won at a conference and my first solar watch was a Citizen Eco-drive from my wife 😀
Sorry my friend! It’s only my opinion it means nothing in terms of what you like!!!!! I promise to get a Citizen for the collection this year but need to find one I want!!!!
Slowly beginning too love your channel , at first i thought what the ....... ,but now i just subbed . Brilliant more informative than you think .Love your off the cuff style .
Great list, I agree with some of them! However, the Vostok and Vostok Europe are completely different brands, Vostoks are manufactured in Russia, while the Europe ones are manufactured in Lithuania(where I am from), while both of them have very "interesting" designs to say the least, I think the Vostok Europe is far superior with the build quality and movement choices! Cheers!
Ouch, Citizen's one of my faves. The Citizen line is beautiful. But I agree, most are boring, but there are lots of gems, lots of mechanical watches in there too.
From the moment I started following watch content on RUclips I always loved your channel. But you are not fair on the vostok brand. While it is true that vostok does not innovate too much it is not completely true. 1. I have 3 vostok watches all full stainless steel not modified. 2.vostok factory makes watches with unidirectional bezel and safire Cristal but with different brand buyalov design for example 3. You are not fair to say that Casio is timeless while wearing the watch that hasn't changed from the 70's (love Casio by the way) while vostok is doing the same thing - providing great quality watches for ridiculous amount of money 4. Vostok has higher-end models as well 5. If you put a new case, safire Cristal, ceramic bezel on the vostok you will still get a cheaper watch than Seiko srpd 6. You can get 3 full stainless steel vostoks for the price of 1 Seiko srpd including the GMT vostok watch with lumed bezel 7. Not all vostoks have tanks and rockets on the dial usually only 30 dollars komandirskie manually winding watches 8. There is no watch in the world that has been to space, is capable of going deeper underwater than you are, with heritage, and a unique design for less money.
I love this my friend! And for anyone that feels the same should like this awesome comment ! One thing you didn’t address is to me …….. they are not nice to look at! But listen there’s a time and a place for a Vostok . I went the Seiko route in the early stages of my obsession. You buy a Vostok because it’s cheap and you are very curious about the quirkiness of the design. After a while for most , Vostoks don’t come out of the Watchbox again .
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR I get what you are saying you need to pick the fruit a bit with vostok to find a good looking one. But I'll tell you this when you pay 100 dollars for the bracelet to put it on an 89 dollars vostok and you are happy to have paid it as well, that's pure love. And my wife says that all my watches look the same anyway 🙄
100% agree regarding Vostok. All the RUclips vids about them, then you take a look online and the design is something an 11 year old would come up with. Good vid Russ
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I like Citizen watches, and I own a few. Most of them have the E6B flight computer bezel, which is cool. They offer good watches at a price I can live with.
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We demand a pt.2. We want to know more brands!!
If this is successful, it’ll happen!
yes😅
@@willharris8441 see ya Will take care buddy
Already waiting
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR I’m waiting, bud
I agree with you Russ, especially with AP. It's nice to hear people voice their true opinion for once.
Thank you so much for watching!!!!
Agree with most but Citizen, especially recently. I recently purchased the Fujitsubo diver and the BN0220 and both have quickly become 2 of my favorites: Super Titanium, unique yet appealing designs, solid build quality, and affordability make them great!
Citizen has some great Titanium watches.
For me, the combo titanium-sapphire-Eco Drive-Radio controlled is pure bliss.
@E28 Forever I agree with you on the titanium, eco drive, sapphire, radio controlled watches they are fantastic. Love my PMD56-2952. Perfect everyday watch
I have a Eco-drive Titanium chronograph, sapphire crystal, 100m wr... and it's more comfortable on wrist than other more expensive watches I own
Even in a video where the topic is inherently “negative” your energy is so positive and love the education and knowledge around these brands 👑
I've only been following your channel for a few weeks, but after going down the rabbit hole, I can say that you're in my top 3 review channels! Cheers!!
Sebastian I am hugely thankful you found the channel!!!!!
He really does have a very good sense of humor! Especially his facial expressions when he gets disappointed with every watch spec he reviews 😂
I really like this video. I don’t mind that three of the watch brands I own are featured here because it’s healthy to be reminded once in a while that they are just watches at the end of the day. A fascinating hobby. Personal preferences can and should differ, and above all, peer pressure to hate or obsess over brands is toxic. Purchase what makes you stay up at nights and wear the fuck out of them. Truth is (or that is what I’ve experienced) that nobody except you can appreciate fully what you are wearing on your wrist.
This is a fantastic comment and I appreciate you taking the time to type it my friend! 100% agree!
Agreed 👍 , I own an Invicta, a Citizen and seven Vostoks too 😂
.. can't argue with that.
@@dunderhay9169 ... with you there two Vostoks, two Citizens and a Tissot.
I also like tomato ketchup, love mint chocolate chip ice cream, peanut butter and jam, cheese on EVERYTHING (hey I'm American what do you expect) ... as for cricket ... well I just don't understand it 🤷♂️.
It's a great point. I think watch collectors get too concerned by buying right when buying right should just mean what's right for you. Because the truth is, how many people ever really notice what's on your wrist
Possibly THE BEST watch channel and probably THE BEST watch video too, really enjoyed this one.
Get hold of an Invicta Rolex copy for £50-£60 and you can’t go wrong. A decent Seiko movement and good water resistance makes for a great everyday beater that can be worn anywhere. I need and want my watches to be spot on accurate, so Casio models with time synchronisation or The Citizen with 5 seconds a year accuracy, or better, are my personal favourites. Quartz wins every time as far as I am concerned, although a mechanical watch with display back makes for an interesting display piece.
Brilliant machines for sure my friend!
Quartz is the superior technology and this is indisputable. To me all the commentators that go on about the 'soul' of a mechanical watch are the same as those record collectors that will lecture you till your ears get gangrene about how 'warm vinyl sounds.
@@nobbynoris would you genuinely say a £2/$2 quartz movement is undisputedly superior technology to a rolex or omega watch with metas/superlative chronometer spec?
I know what I’d rather have 7 years down the line. (And ever day until then… and after)
@@nobbynoris you do realize that wax records are coming back in a big way right.
You should really check out the JDM Citizen stock...they are really nice, classy, and timeless. The NB1050 line really took off here in the states, such nice watches that fill the SARB void now that Seiko dumped the line
Thank you my friend! I really want to find a Citizen for me!!!!
I'm not a citizen fan but I think this comment is very true. Seiko used to be like this too - the only nice watches they had were JDM
I recently had a glimpse at the Citizen annual business report with the executives mugshots in it. It looks like a darn retirement home's yearbook and it instantly made me understand why their watches look the way they do. I love Citizen for quality and specs, I think Eco Drive is awesome, I cherished my gnarly NY0040 auto diver for decades and it is still a great watch, but they really need to get their designs sorted out. I just can’t find anything remotely wearable, no matter how hard I'm trying (which applies to many popular brands btw.).
@@Bonpu los diseños de Orient sí que son feos
I really love my Vostoks, theyve taken a lot of punishment and they are my daily drivers. But they definitely need a good replacement bezel and strap in order to look good.
Thanks for watching and I respect your Vostok love!
@THE MAD WATCH COLLECTOR no problem with saying what you feel! I agreed with all the points you made on all the watches tbh. The Vostoks themselves definitely have their faults as well
Nice video, Russel. I just wanted to add a little correction about the Vostok Amfibias: they actually have all of them cases made of true stainless steel (not just plated) and also about Tissot: I know you are not a fan of dress watches but they got some pretty good offerings from their heritage line, the Le Locle, Carson, PR 16 with some nice finishing and sizing for them guys who just got into the hobby and want to buy a true mechanical watch with some decent ETA 2824 movement without spending a lot of cash. Cheers!
To be fair, Vostok have been producing fully stainless cases for many years now. They have a range called "Amfibia" as opposed to Amphibia, which are very modern decent quality watches. I've got the red sea and scuba versions which are easily on par with my Seiko SKX's, although the movements are the same one's they've been putting in their watches for decades. Crude but pretty tough and I've regulated mine to within 5 seconds per 24 hours. Vostok have an old world charm and deserve their place in any collection.
My first "nice" watch I added to my collection was a Citizen Promaster Eco-Drive diver's watch. It has its own style without being weird looking, and it comes in mechanical versions as well (Fugu, anyone?). Besides the Promaster Marine line, there aren't any more watches of Citizen that I would buy. Maybe one of their titanium Eco-Drive watches, but barely.
Agreed and thank you my friend!
Yeah I've got a fugi , it's a nice watch , with an eight o'clock crown, soft rubber strap and pretty accurate, about seven over a seconds a day fast , plus anti magnetic, all the bezel markers are on point and on the whole pretty happy with my purchase,
Got three Seiko's in the same year and they aren't half as accurate and were nearly twice the price, especially after having to get a strapcode band which cost £128 , which took the samarai over£570 all told , which was nearly twice the price of the citizen,
So value and quality I have to give it to the promaster fugi
Also got my first Swiss watch which was a Hamilton khaki scuba desk diver, which has an ETA movement and on a three day power reserve only gain three seconds over 80hours
Huge difference between the Seiko's and Hamilton,
The Seiko's look better monster and samurai but cost a lot without the accuracy of the Swiss piece, still a four watch collection for under £2000 with warranties
Over xmas I won a Citizen Promaster NY-0086 (Pepsi) from Jody at Just one more watch! I hadn't considered a Citizen before. Thought they were too much of a mall watch. But I have come to love the Promaster. It is just the right size. The pepsi bezel looks good, and I've regulated it to be around +/-4 or so. Damn good watch. I'm wearing it on a blue single pass zulu right now!
I mostly agree, but I love Tissot. A true Swiss brand that makes solid high quality watches for a very nice price. Iblike the T counterbalance on the Seastar 😁
No bad thing my friend and big respect!
The watch that drew me into this preoccupation was a Tissot but I have to say, those huge Seastar chrono diver things are buttfuck ugly.
And why the hell do you even need a chronograph complication on a diver watch anyway?
I love my Tissot PR100. 39mm. Classic elegant styling. It's currently on a Hirsch lizard strap. I intensely dislike the new PRX, with the chunky angular lugs and bracelet styling.
the PRX 35mm sorts out that lug to lug problem, fits great for small/medium sized wrists and is well finished for the price (powermatic 35mm version coming soon also)
@@nobbynoris I agree. I specificly mean the Seastar 1000 36mm. So comfy on the wrist with the smaller size and super accurate. I hear they are releasing a thinner 40mm version of it that isnt huge like the 2000 or whatever its called.
Although I agree with most of your opinions about Citizen, they make some lovely watches if you are willing to pay 500 dolars plus. Jody reviewed one that looked like a grand seiko recently and it was lovely.
He did but how boring was it!!!!;) they make Dan good watches that’s for sure!
And there no way I’d buy it over a GS
I love Tissot but you are correct about their lack of availability of 37-39 mm watches. They have a lot of affordable nice designs but many of them are 41 or above like the Visodates. Wish they made more of them at 38mm
The Powermatic 80 also uses a plastic escapement (pallet fork and escape wheel). If you want entry-level Swiss, get a Hamilton.
The PRX is actually based on a Tissot Seastar from the 70's when everyone was on that same design bandwagon. Check out some of the Citizen Chronomasters. I certainly hope to own someday
I did a show on the PRX my friend. What Tissot didn’t make in the 70’s was a blue coloured waffle dial that’s a dead ringer for the Royal Oak.
Great video Russ but, I absolutely love my Citizen BM7251-53L. Like you've said in other comments, it took me a while to find one I liked and, after months of searching, that one stuck out to me the most. It's affordable, accurate, and is perfect for my office job or for a night out. One day, you'll see the light, lol.
you had me at "display casebook on a quartz"!!!
Thanks for watching till the end!!
That's the whole point of Vostok, they're super cheap and almost entirely unchanged since they were first created! You're basically purchasing new old stock, but actually new. It's just a breath of fresh air to purchase something utterly ridiculous and ancient for $80.
Lovely stuff my friend! They are great to tinker with , even I have!
I have ready that vostoks are very unreliable and fragile
@@Fanasz That has not been my experience. I've had several and they've all been super robust. I use them as my beater watch, so they get quite abused and I've never had an issue. And eventually if/when I do, I'll drop it in the bin and pick up another one for $70.
Hands down best video you’ve ever made!!! I really love and appreciate the honesty (And I do have 2 Vostoks 😂 total nostalgic/vintage looking beaters to save some Others ;) I would trust them for depth diving and I do tinker with their mechanics so type 2 person on your list) Don’t worry I have plenty of G Shocks too! THANKS FOR A GREAT VIDEO!!! Keep it up!
Thank you for watching my friend!
tbh, i love it when other enthusiasts don’t like citizen (my favourite brand). it means their prices on the secondary market, especially from japanese sites, are depressed relative to other brands. i don’t disagree with the common criticisms (most models are too large; dials are busy; odd and inconsistent design language), but their current and back catalog is so extensive that it’s still easy to find things to love.
the more hate citizen gets, the lower we get to buy them
I agree sometimes it feels like a hive mind, but Invicta does release some vintage inspired watches in shocker, vintage sizes like that chronograph or small seconds, it's quartz but they are well priced and you have multiple color ways to choose, I've heard they're good for the price, Invicta's mostly make big ugly mutant looking watches but when they make a good design in a good size, they got it out of the park
I have 4 Invictae - 2 Pro Diver 40mm NH35, a 1953 40mm NH35 and a quartz Speedway chronograph. They are all excellent quality watches and I paid less than $300 for all. Everyone sees the gaudy abominations and thinks 'that's Invicta' and it is. But so is 'classy homage watches' and in the 1953 understated style.
Hey Russell, I tried to look you up to hear more of your original music. I really like the tunes/snippets on the channel. Where can we hear more? I’m a sucker for power pop.
Hahahaha type Martha’s Man on Spotify or iTunes my friend;)
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR I played your album and then singles while working. Good stuff, thanks! Will revisit when I can pay more attention.
Another good episode. I’ve never really thought about brands I don’t like to much, but if I was to think about it quickly: Bulova, San Martin, Cartier, Accurist, would all come to mind. Slightly off topic, but I am starting to question the pricing of certain luxury stainless steel automatic watches, but that’s not to say I don’t like them (edited for clarity).
Fair enough my friend!
Great video! Who else does a display back on a quartz besides Invicta? Grand Seiko has some special 9F releases and, more affordable, Islander Watches come to mind with the Amerigraph. Can’t afford the GS yet myself but I must admit I love seeing the decorated electronics on my Islander.
Haven’t seen the Amerigraph however MARC is proud of having an American made movement in his watches! And the 9F’ are beautifully finished!
Citizen is an acquired taste IMHO. I used to ignore this brand because it seemed so boring. But later on in my watch journey I decided to give it a try and see what they offer for the domestic market (JDM). Now it's one of my favorite brands. I am glad that many people in the comments went through the similar discovery or shall I say "rediscovery" of this amazing brand that is unfortunately is misrepresented as just a department store throw away brand in the west.
A good friend of mine has a Promastet pilot from many years. I got one Chrono Pilot used, changed the battery get original armis and I love it. The only "big watch" in my collection but with amazing specs, radiocontrolled. A watch to give to my unexisting grandsons.
The only person on RUclips that is brave enough to vocalize his opinion on Citizen AND Tissot. And he’s not wrong either 😂
Thanks for watching my friend!!!
Tissot are great watches I absolutely love the silicium powermstic 80 iand the PRX is a lovely piece … imho
@@apegrasshoplizard no bad thing my friend
He's certainly wrong about citizen and the amount they sell tells a difference story. Citizen pound for pound blows Seiko out off the water...
@@NathanChisholm041 he???? Who do you think sees this comment first son? Think I gave the brand huge praise ????? They just don’t make a watch I like? I guarantee a lot of your watches is never buy just the same as you probably wouldn’t like mine! You can’t say I’m wrong as it’s my opinion ;)
Citizen JDM watches are better than those they release to US. I like the Tissot Gentleman. But I agree with your list overall.
Thanks for watching my friend!
I do agree, except on the Citizen side. I would have put Seiko there, but to be fair, I’ve got little experience with Seiko watches. Love the channel Russ.
Thank you my friend and I appreciate the support and comments!
Another quality video Russ! However I have to say I do love my citizen diver as well as my Vostok just out of sheer uniqueness. For brands to add to the list I’m not particularly in love with Tag Huer and Rolex. (Even though I can respect the brand heritage and their importance in horology)
Jacob! Totally respect that my friend!! All the best to you!
I have a citizen pcat, and it looks ok on the wrist but i only use it to set my other watches.
No bad thing my friend!
Amphibias are stainless (I own three) Komandirskie are plated brass. Amphibias are plain old workhorses, Komandirskie are wind up toys.
Vostok fan!!!! Absolutely great my friend!
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR My passion is classic Accutron, but my 090 case Scuba Dude is my go to watch when I want to wear something that will take a beating!
@@DanaTheInsane superb my friend!
Great video, though I do love my Tissot PRC 200, which has a black dial and I've put it on a black leather strap.
No problem at all!!! Thanks for watching and big respect my friend!
PRX is a reissue of their own watch not a homage of the AP. In my opinion, really the only thing that's the same is they both have integrated bracelets. Different case shapes, different bracelet design, etc
And a waffle dial and blue colour the same as an AP! That was the first release , the different dial colours have hidden that fact now but it’s fine, good business from the Swatch group!
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR Ah that is true, dial did match up. I got it in black so it doesn't look so similar at a glance, but that blue really is edging too close. Not as bad as the Maurice Lacroix Aikon though, for me that's a straight homage
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR Just because it has waffle dial doesn't mean its homage. Even if the blue dial is kinda close it, I wouldn't call it homage, maybe it's just me, but I don't see it.🤷
@@dejvcz9473 come on man! It was no accident. Put the colours up together it’s the same;) it’s a plain as Bulgarian pin up !
I am a Citizen fanboy myself but I get your point there (somewhat). However, I still think that some of the watches from the Chronomaster line or from the Nature Collection (e.g. CITIZEN NB1060-12L) line are just fantastic
The 70s have a lot to answer for! And I’m not just talking about “flares” and “platform shoes.”😆
On his maiden flight into space, Yuri Gagarin didn’t wear a Boctok. He wore a Poljot Strumanskie (Navigator). A very nice watch (33mm case). I have a reissue of that particular watch.
Hahahahaha
I have been modding and building watches for many years some of the dials on the Vostok like the Scuba Dude are in the top drawer and a nice one but yes most others are gash. The automatic movement is very very reliable but all of the watches I have modded and kept in my Collection use Seiko Movements as the parts are so much earlier to get hold!
Everyone got their own taste that is fine 😊 still I do love my boring Citizen Promaster 😅❤️
You do you my friend!! My opinion means nothing to what you want to put on your wrist!! All the best!
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR You are a true Gentleman ☺️ thank you for your wonderful content!
Man, ohh man! Your productions is increasingly better! Bravo! I am, I might say, proud of you! Amazing work!
You are very kind my friend thank you!
Loved this episode - and heartily agree with everything you said. Also agree that ketchup is gross and cricket is mind numbingly boring.
I'd love to see you do a review of the Tag Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 date (esp with the blue dial). It's a gorgeous watch, 40mm case and I think it would be right up your alley.
Thank you my friend! It does need to be done!
I have a few of the less busy Citizen Eco Drives, but my Citizen Stiletto has an almost sterile dial. No second hand or complications other than hour and minute. Just a subtle logo and its the one quartz model I've had comments on. Every time I see a Royal Oak I just think those hexagonal "screws" on the case front are just for show and can't be actually operated.
Great video Russ. I think you are well justified with some of these!
Thank you my friend!
Totally agree with you. I like Invicta homages though...great videos....and btw your name is?
The Mad Watch Collector!!!!!! Russ nice to meet you! And you are?;)
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR Hi Russ! I really like your videos, the inserts, your faces…you really have a talent. I also play tennis and love watches. Will be great to have a match next time I’m in London! My name is Alfredo Guillen and I’m from Mexico…
@@AlfredoRGuillen Alfredo!!! It’s a pleasure to have you on board my friend! One day my friend!;)
We're all different (I'm not) but I would have to agree with you for most of these brands. The brands that get my goat are most of the fashion labels that sell cheap watches with a label and sell them for a crazy price. Fashions move fast these days (allegedly) so there is a chance that a fashion watch will be so last year and ignored well before its battery leaps of its mortal coil. Fortunately that tends to affect the fashion conscious buyer so shouldn't apply to me.
Anthony! Appreciate you watching my friend! Fashion watches are yuk especially the ones that are 2 bucks to make but 500 bucks to buy!
Completely with you on four out of the five. And while I love Citizen as a brand, I must admit your criticisms are [mostly] valid. 👍
Citizen Promaster line, auto and eco drive, is quite nice. The NY0040 with the ink black dial and overall design is quite nicer than the Seiko SKX, which I do not regret selling. Some of the new Promaster titanium are nice.
But many department store citizen watches are boring. The Promaster line should be marketed as a sub brand
I’ll check these out my friend!!!
I have a 10 year old Eli Manning limited edition eco drive. It's a tank and beautiful
@@markcherone5411 I have the NY0040 and NY0100 titanium with solid bracelet, and they are beautiful.. I put the NY0040 on a generic engineer bracelet. When I had the Seiko skx I really did not like it as much. The Citizen has such a beautiful dial. I have the BN0151, the eco drive diver. I like it too, although I find the NY have more attractive dials and cases. But now there is a new BN with orange dial I want to see, and the BN0227 full lume that appeals to me.
@@stefpix I would love to track down the blue rubber bracelet but no idea if it exists at this point.
@@markcherone5411 the BN0151 comes with the blue rubber band. I do not like the bands with the accordion folds. Actually it looks nice with an orange band
It's only anecdotal, but I've heard some worrying stories about the longevity of Eco Drive caps or batteries. I'd want to check into that before buying in. Seiko, I'm more inclined to trust from the get-go. Sometimes reputation means something, and sometimes it doesn't.
A lot of great points! I kind of feel the same about Tissot. The "T" counterbalance looks terrible and I'm not a big fan of how the prx sits on the wrist, although, I would love to own a Tissot gentleman. I don't have to financially struggle with the decision, but can we mention Richard Mille!? I just don't get it, I know, movement, status, watch making, but the things are horrific looking. I mean, at least half of those invictas and the AP concept are just chasing that "style". That AP concept is their obvious answer to the popularity of RM in that space. It's a great case of "don't forget what got you there". All of that being said, I have my eyes fixated on longines for my next watch. (I think). Now just to narrow down which one!
P.S. the Vostok fanclub is coming for you.😂🤣
I have to echo your comments on Richard Mille. I just don’t get it. It looks like something you
Would get free in a box of cereal.
@@FRST2012 I'm with You'z on the R.M thing, but I've had a few Tissots and they've left a good mark on Me, I like 'em.. not ALL of them, some of the designs I'm not keen on, but I think they really hit it with the PRX's..all of them.
@@FRST2012 agreed. Like one of my kids toys where it has a paw patrol walkie talkie built into it. That's all I can see.
@@mrmagoo.3678 I like the prx and admittedly have never tried one on or even handled one. In all of the photos I have seen, it just seems to lay goofy on the wrist. I would happily own one, but the Tissot gentleman just speaks to me. It seems like that "do all" watch. It makes me want to send the kids to grandma and grandpa's, pack a bag, grab the tissot gentleman and a few straps and take the wife somewhere on a long weekend getaway. That watch just seems like it would fit in and be a joy to wear all over the place.
@@robertmorano2372 I think I might be biased towards Tissot Maybees, they were my first 'Swiss Made' so I think I look through Rose tinted specs when I look at Tissot, but them PRX really tickle that spot for Me :)
I do have a few Citizens and think they are great watches for the money. Very reliable, keep great time, and think the models I purchased look good. With this said I have become a a Sekoholic and have purchased 4 of them within the last year in addition to a Hamilton khaki king. I also love my Casio G-shocks. I do not own any high end watches but enjoy what I own today. I have been eying the Tudor BB58 blue dial. Maybe one day I will purchase one. I am just too cheap and afraid I would abuse it. I really enjoyed this video and happy you got this off your chest! I would love to hear your wife’s opinion on the Invicta Gladiator😂
I love the Tissot PRX LOL! All good though, I get it. Really starting to get some serious hate for Rolex. I talked to a Rolex snob last week that just could not understand that I was not interested in a Rolex over a Tudor or Omega. I was so close to being like you need to expand your horizon my friend, they are not the only show in town.
Absolutely!!!!
That was again a great fun!!i was laughing from the beginning until the end!! Quarz movement with showcase back, you just nailed it!!! Great show, Russ!!!
Let me start by saying I got into mechanical/automatic watches in 2019 because of a coworker. One day he mentioned Vostok and told me that they were a Russian brand. I had absolutely no idea that the Russians produced wrist watches. I then began checking them out on RUclips and about a week later ordered my first Vostok watch. Today I own about ten to twelve Vostok watches, mostly Amphibias and a couple of Komandirskies, and love modding them! I don't know exactly what it is about these watches that I'm so drawn too, but love them nonetheless. I also have several Seikos, a Hamilton, a couple of Orient watches, and a couple of Chinese watches in my watch collection.
P.S. I coincide with you that Invicta watches are just absolutely hideous. 🤢🤮
Thank you for watching my friend and thank you to your friends Vostoks for getting you into watches!
Not all invictas is hiddious 😉 i love the pro diver or 1953 diver, Great for Modding 👍✌️
My brotha! Your story is so close to mine it is simply eerie. My coworker wore a Vostok (scuba dude) that got me interested in mechanical autos; I didn't know one could be had for relatively low cost - I thought Rolex & Omega had the only sweeping seconds hands. Got an Amphibia, an Orient Mako II, then a Seiko 5. Fast forward & I have 13 various Vostoks, like you, mostly Amphibias, a couple Komandirskes. I really have a fondness for the round Amohibs, but the weird "barrel" case/cushion case versions are wild, too! Orients are my go-to for modding bc the parts are easy to find. The war in Ukraine has turned Vostoks I to a bit more of a collectible so I'm leaving mine stock (except for swapping out those dreadful pressed folded braclets, ugh). It's a full-on addiction, but a harmless one. I'm about to throw down on my first "luxury" tool watch, and am 🔥d up for it: the Soon-to-be mine Sinn 104 I St Sa. Next, and it'll have to wait for a while, the Seiko SARB017 (OG Alpinist) 💸💸💸💸
Couldn't agree more however there is among the Citizens one that I totally adore and love and this is the bullhead from the 70s, the 8110. The dimensions of this watch(es) just speak to me. What do you think about this one also the reissues that came out just recently?
Absolutely!!! Bring on the BullHead! Tried a vintage one on last summer and it was awesome the reissues…… TOO BIIIIIIIIG!!!!!
Russ I forgive you for not liking Tissot but not liking PP&J, that's to much to ask!😉
You are right obviously my friend! I’m gonna try it again!!!
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR I expect a video review of that.😂
Agree, but why not include the hate for mint chop chip flavour ice cream? Me thinks if you don't like that, then ask for a stracciatella. Even pronouncing it correctly deserves a cone (esp. when tipsy).
Man this was great…totally agree with Citizen…those offshore APs looked like Hublots….great video!
Most modern Tudors. Hate 'em. Looks like Mom and Dad got really excited because little Timmy used all the shapes when he drew the dial and hands. Circles and squares and triangles and diamonds and rectangles...and well....we're kind of out of room for more shapes, so that'll be enough.
Hahahahahaha love this!!!
Enjoyed the quick glimpse of the Pelagos 39 in the opening sequence!
It’s awesome Gareth!!!!
Great show 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Tag Heuer for me, can't think of one watch of theirs that I would want to spend my money on.
Thanks for watching!
Their Quartz watches are waaaaay overpriced.
Can see your point of view however the friction bezel on the Vostok is better than the ratcheting unidirectional bezel. For this reason alone it is really easy to use as a countdown timer whereas the unidirectional you have to spin it a few times. Regarding the unidirectional function of most dive watches it is just a fantasy they hardly ever take them to the BEACH let alone diving. Had taken my vostok to the beach many times over the summer and didn't even think about it. A Sicko guy would not wear their Sicko watch LOL....
Regarding Citizen I certainly do not agree. In fact I think that 9 series movement by Citizen is unbeatable by Seiko. Thin, 4hz and very accurate and reliable movement. Seiko must be the only brand in the world making $1500 watches with 3hz movements inside.
I'm pretty sure Tissot is just meant to make you get a Longines. They're usually right next to each other in boutiques and the prices often overlap at the high-end Tissot/entry-level or quartz Longines.
(not that I have anything against Tissot or Quartz).
Tissot sells a lot of watches in China. I think they have their own thing/heritage going for them, but I'm not a big fan of them.
@@claytonberg721 Thanks for the information. I'm sure they have a rich history - they're just not exploiting it well enough in my opinion.
Invicta is too mad for even the Mad Watch Collector.
Way too mad!!!!
Ah, but there must be some love for the Citizen Pro Master NY0040..a direct competitor with the Seiko SKX007, and a proper dive watch to boot! Mines the fully lumed dial version & is, as you Brits say, a cracking great watch for the money.
New sub here, watch enthusiast and amateur collector (meaning I can't afford to spend thousands on my watches 😂) but I love you're videos! Highly entertaining and very well made, if I might say so. Hilarious. Keep up the great work! Thanks
You are very kind my friend! Thank you for finding the channel and welcome aboard!!
I used to agree with you about Citizen but I picked up a NB1060-12l and its a stunner
I'm a fan of the Rolex homages from Invicta and I love the Citizen Eco-Drives that I own, but your criticisms are all valid. We all see value and style in watches differently so it's always fun to see what other people think about the various brands out there. I will say that you've opened my eyes to how good some of the Casio models are.
Hahahaha well thank you my friend!
Excellent points all around, especially on AP and Tissot. You captured my thoughts exactly on Citizen too!
I agree with much of your choices. I always say JLC should take AP place in the trinity. I also add that I pretty much despise Rolex. They are not at all about the watches.. it's all about the hype, wealth flexing, and elite. Just my 2cents. I also have to say...I bought a Vostok after all the youtubers talked about em...and it is rubbish lol. But it's still kind of neat IMO to have a Russian made in house movement. Kind of an odd duck. It's rarely worn though lol.
Rolex that were made in the 60s and 70s, though, were built like tanks and last a lifetime. Back then they were like the other Swiss makers and competed side by side. Then came the 80s and the era of bling and insane prices. For example, in 1965, a basic Oyster Perpetual was $175. ($1698 today). A similar quality 1965 Longines was $140 (my dad got one as a graduation gift from college - about $1300 in today's money). But nothing like the insanity we see now. Reaching to spend $140-175 USD back in 1965 was a lot, but not impossible if you really wanted it. But now.. $6000 for a "poverty spec" Rolex? No way.
I was going to say wtf about Citizens being on the list, but you are spot on with their designs!! freaking great video!!!!!
Thank you!!!!! I love the history, the feats , the innovations and the ongoing strive for awesome accuracy!!!;)
Orient has fallen out of favour with me. Their Bambino (Gen II, ver 2 - white sunburst dial with rose gold hands and numerals) was my first ever mechanical watch, thanks to TGV of course. Loved it to bits, even if it was a bit chunky for a dress watch, and I was sure I'd buy a Ray or Mako as a diver next... but now several years later, none of their watches appeals to me. There's always just something that makes their designs feel off to me. Whether it's the dial, hands, numerals, date window, adding open heart... Even the Kamasu just gets a 'meh' from me.
I agree! For me (at least with their sport watches) it's their obsession with the Day/Date complication. I don't even like date complications on a watch, but who doesn't know what day it is? It's an ugly and useless complication. And they are not the value they once were.
Good vid. Invicta… ok I get it. To me though Invicta was the gateway drug to watch collecting. Decent movement on the pro diver for the money, looks ok.
Definitely a gateway, a gateway to buying copies!!!!! But yes of course my friend
All fair points 😂 I do love my Eco Drives. I see Jody finally found a Citizen he likes. Of course it's a JDM model. They do get props for making the most accurate quartz movement, the Caliber 0100 +/- 1 Second a year is nothing to sneeze at 🤣. Another awesome vid Russ! ❤
The JDM chronomasters are fantastic.
@@claytonberg721 Yes, I saw Jody's recent review on his. He had a similar attitude toward Citizen until he saw the Chronomaster
This is the funniest and most insightful watch video I’ve seen in a long time. Loving the madness and hyperactive content!
My first good mechanical watch was a Vostok. I have several of them, both old (ussr) and new. The komandirkie line has the chrome plated brass cases and the cartoonish dials that you were referring to. They are traditionally 100m wr and hand wound. They were origanilly designed for the red army as field watches. The amphibia was always a much more serious watch and always came with SS case and 200mwr. a few special early models had 300mwr and are rare and collectable. The soviet era amphibia also had a hand wound movement. They transitioned to an automatic movement around the time of the USSR collapse. Almost all of the soviet era and most of the current amphibias have more "Serious" functional dials.
In the past few years they have been making "high end" komandirskies that use the auto movement from amphibia and have SS cases with 200wr blurring the line between the 2 tiers of watches. Conversely, they have also been putting some of the cartoony looking komandirskie dials on amphibias. blurring the lines even further. The tank you were showing was originally a komandirskie dial. The movement does not have a high beat count, but it is made in house to this day. It is extemely reliable, can be fairly accurate and It is easy to adjust and tinker with. There are several case styles and sizes to choose from so you can find something to compliment almost any wrist size.
The biggest downside that you did not mention is that due to recent events in eastern europe, availabilty is down, prices have risen so the $80 watch is now closer to $100-120 to over $200. Delivery takes forever and a day and getting replacement parts are getting more difficult to find. Lastly, depending upon the political views of the company you keep, you may get some hate for wearing a Russian watch. For approximately the same amount of money you can get a Seiko powered Heimdallar Seestern or Steeldive from Ali express for the same money and arguably better quality. There are also kits on Ali express to make your own custom Seiko powered watch for around the same price. Since they all use Seiko NH35 and 36 movements, they can modded easily and cheaply as well. You can also get a nice mid-tier Orient for around the same money as some of the Amphibia SE models, with definitely better quality.
I kind of agree with you that Vostok might belong on this list but for much different reasons ,as I just mentioned. I just dont feel like they are the bargain that they used to be and there are better alternatives at this time.
This was all well said my friend. I still see Vostok as a gateway into mechanical movements. Unfortunately everything has gone up in price to!:/
True! I was going to write almost the same...
It's funny, this is the first time I have heard someone say they do not like Tissot and I have watched countless watch reviews over the past year! I have never owned one but they were a great choice for me to buy my brother a wedding gift last year. I wanted to get him involved in the mechanical world of watches and bought him a Le Locle Powermatic 80 Dress watch. He loves it and I loved it enough to buy it (I try not to buy somebody something that I wouldn't own myself). Loved the video! I am also not a fan of Invicta at ALL!
Justin ! No bad thing whatsoever Tissot are a popular brand!
Tissot are.. tricky. A few of their watches are excellent and well done, but they are kind of the Citizen of Swiss watches in that a lot of them are just.. designed and set up oddly.
For instance, almost everything sporty looks.. terrible as he mentioned, except for the black on black Supersport. The blue and black version is sharp, but WHY does it come with a $10 fabric band lifted off of a $40 Swatch? Stuff like that. The Carson and Tradition also are good, but surrounded by a sea of odd designs (yes, the PRX is in that list), and only in certain color combinations. All bronze everything.. why? And, as you mentioned, the Le Locle (though there isn't quartz version, so $$$) So they make fantastic watches... provided you are willing to find the 10 or so that look clean and classy out of the hundreds of other brain-dead designs and filler. Again, just like Citizen. Lol.
If I'm being honest, Grand Seiko is a brand which has no design which really speaks to me. I have tried to like them, because everyone kinda does - but I'd rather pick up a couple of Vostoks. (;
GET Y’VOSTOKS OUT!!! No bad thing my friend!
Actually all Amphibia watches are made of stainless steel. Very nice video, I really enjoyed watching
Vostok rocks. Philistine!!!😉
Point taken!!! Thanks for watching!
I love Invicta! Have you seen the Hulk sw500 chronograph? It's so nice! Out of stock for years!
I like Citizen. I like Vostok. I agree with your other choices though. Each to their own, it's what makes watch collecting so fun. If someone's happy wearing a massive gaudy Invicta then good on em, I say !!!
I’m with you Paul!
I was looking at radijo control eco drive titanium but got into mechanical and got myself orient open heart, fag series
The new Invicta makes robust vintage style from old Invicta Archives I just bought an Automatic Jump hour
It was 38 millimeters!
This sounds good!!!
There is only ONE Tissot I like, it's the PRX Powermatic 80...
Absolutely my friend!
Peanut butter and strawberry jam, heavenly mixture! And cricket is fine for a weekend's gentle entertainment.
I need to try it more!!!!!
I would add IWC, but I may be in the minority with that take. I just don't see the appeal at the prices they sell for. 100% agree with cricket , I don't care for any sport where the matches last longer than my Hamilton's 80 hour power reserve, thank you.
Hahahahahaha absolutely love this my friend!!!!
I love the video! On the topic of truth off our chest, I must say I love the slightly less abrupt and jarring transitions you used in this video compared to others.
Thank you my friend!!!
@themadwatchcollector I love your channel... But you broke my heart when you said Citizen!
Sorry my friend!!!! But I did big the brand up!!!!
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR I'm kidding, for sure brands are a personal thing. I'm a Citizen sucker like you're a Seiko sucker. Not everything they do is great but I've got some solid nostalgia, like my first dress watch being a corporate prize my dad won at a conference and my first solar watch was a Citizen Eco-drive from my wife 😀
I have owned close to a dozen Vostok watches. Most of them had to be serviced as soon as they arrived.
Jeez Russel... It felt like you were kicking my sister. Citizen? Tissot?! 😢
Sorry my friend! It’s only my opinion it means nothing in terms of what you like!!!!! I promise to get a Citizen for the collection this year but need to find one I want!!!!
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR Its okay bud... We all like what we like otherwise the world would be a boring place!
Your best video yet. Great honest takes and perfect comedic timing.
Thank you my friend!
Brands I hate? I hate designer brands selling watches like Hugo boss etc
Cringeworthy junk with a premium price tag
Agreed!!!!
Slowly beginning too love your channel , at first i thought what the ....... ,but now i just subbed .
Brilliant more informative than you think .Love your off the cuff style .
Great list, I agree with some of them! However, the Vostok and Vostok Europe are completely different brands, Vostoks are manufactured in Russia, while the Europe ones are manufactured in Lithuania(where I am from), while both of them have very "interesting" designs to say the least, I think the Vostok Europe is far superior with the build quality and movement choices! Cheers!
Pleasure to have you come and watch a show my friend!
Ouch, Citizen's one of my faves. The Citizen line is beautiful. But I agree, most are boring, but there are lots of gems, lots of mechanical watches in there too.
From the moment I started following watch content on RUclips I always loved your channel.
But you are not fair on the vostok brand. While it is true that vostok does not innovate too much it is not completely true.
1. I have 3 vostok watches all full stainless steel not modified.
2.vostok factory makes watches with unidirectional bezel and safire Cristal but with different brand buyalov design for example
3. You are not fair to say that Casio is timeless while wearing the watch that hasn't changed from the 70's (love Casio by the way) while vostok is doing the same thing - providing great quality watches for ridiculous amount of money
4. Vostok has higher-end models as well
5. If you put a new case, safire Cristal, ceramic bezel on the vostok you will still get a cheaper watch than Seiko srpd
6. You can get 3 full stainless steel vostoks for the price of 1 Seiko srpd including the GMT vostok watch with lumed bezel
7. Not all vostoks have tanks and rockets on the dial usually only 30 dollars komandirskie manually winding watches
8. There is no watch in the world that has been to space, is capable of going deeper underwater than you are, with heritage, and a unique design for less money.
I love this my friend! And for anyone that feels the same should like this awesome comment ! One thing you didn’t address is to me …….. they are not nice to look at! But listen there’s a time and a place for a Vostok . I went the Seiko route in the early stages of my obsession. You buy a Vostok because it’s cheap and you are very curious about the quirkiness of the design. After a while for most , Vostoks don’t come out of the Watchbox again .
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR
I get what you are saying you need to pick the fruit a bit with vostok to find a good looking one. But I'll tell you this when you pay 100 dollars for the bracelet to put it on an 89 dollars vostok and you are happy to have paid it as well, that's pure love. And my wife says that all my watches look the same anyway 🙄
Hahahahaha very well said and well said the wife!
Great show! Totally agree with AP being on the list. Even if I could afford one I wouldn’t buy one. Dare I say it.. I’d probably buy a PRX
Hahahahaha me to!
100% agree regarding Vostok. All the RUclips vids about them, then you take a look online and the design is something an 11 year old would come up with. Good vid Russ
Thanks for watching my friend!
Best not to change the date unless the hour hand is between 4 and 8 to avoid grinding movement
Not sure it matters with a vostok nor a Powermatic 80 my friend
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I like Citizen watches, and I own a few. Most of them have the E6B flight computer bezel, which is cool. They offer good watches at a price I can live with.
Absolutely agree my friend!