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Thanks for your detailed and TIMELY review! I probably watched it 2 or 3 times, trying to decide if this slate blue/grey is nice enough to get. I think it is. Probably in person the dial will look amazing.
@@JonathanTReviews I got it! Your review is great and it really helped me decide. Your comparison video was very good too. If you could do some close-ups of the dial with the watch on a table and not somewhat shaking in your hands that would be the only improvement I can offer.
Great review as usual Jonathan, I'm planning on passing on this launch although the Satin variant might be too sexy to pass on....We'll see, waiting on five incoming Chaves and Chris Reeves knives this week lol.... I also promised myself I would wait on higher end movements and I believe I seen somewhere the Spearfish will have what I may be looking for....
Thanks buddy! The Spearfish should be really cool, scratching the itch for many since the ETA Swordfish options dried up. I'm looking forward to seeing more details on that one. Cheers
Thank you! Titanium tends to be a bit polarizing, as some feel it's too light or feels like "plastic", but I recommend trying it sometime. Beyond the weight, the metal itself has a different feel that I enjoy. Cheers
I love the Zelos Swordfish, I have got a 42 and a 40, both stainless steel. This particular colourway is so beautiful that I would get one if it was stainless steel or coated titanium. I would be OK paying a little extra for it. But the fact that it doesn't have hardening coating kills this for me sadly.
I’m torn on the date window, it’s small but that’s a good thing as it helps keep dial symmetry. I like no date dials but have noticed myself looking for the date on it sometimes. This might be the best of both worlds. Nice review again. Looking forward to seeing you do a review of the upcoming Great White!
I know what you mean. For me personally, I think it's a good size and well incorporated. I've had a few of this model now and never really had an issue. I wanted to mention it though, as it's unchanged and I know some complain about it. Thanks for the support! I'm not certain if I'll have the opportunity to review the Great White. Sadly, it's too large for my wrist/taste to purchase, so I will only be reviewing if it's sponsored. Cheers
It is a chunky little beast but I think carries its weight very well. Heavy but not just got the sake of it. It tends to be one of the polarizing models though. Cheers
Thanks so much for the information on this. This slate gray/blue is in my top three of this release. When Elshan mentioned no Ti coating I was a tad disappointed. I'm not hard on my watches but I would prefer the extra protecting. Still, I'll grab at least one of these.
Happy to help buddy! I came to like this color quite a lot preparing this review. It's a very attractive shade of blue when the light is right and otherwise a unique gray color with a hint of blue. I definitely agree about the coating. It's not a deal-breaker but I would have preferred to pay a bit more and have it for added peace of mind. Can't wait to see your pics! Cheers
It is very much so! I tried to capture multiple lighting conditions for that reason. I'll double check when I get home but I'm pretty sure it's a solid match.
Sweet! That is my top pick from this batch as well. I agree, the coloration is perfect for this one. It's very dramatic seeing the difference in the comparison video I'll be posting in a couple days. Cheers
@@JonathanTReviews the ti satin version, so shiny and just celebrates titanium. The dial reminds me of a saw blade :) Was thinking about the blue but i have a Steinhart ocean 39 in black/blue and i want to buy different types of watches ( i don't have lot of them). Love my Steinhart......
It does have a really cool industrial/distressed look! Always a good call to diversify the collection. I think you'll be pleased with this new addition. Cheers
Thank you! You definitely can't go wrong with either. Both wear excellently, are great designs, pack a lot of features for the price, etc. Both are a solid construction but the RZE is noticeably more light (a pro for some people and con for others). The same is true for dial (sand only on RZE vs dial choices) and case appearance (lighter and blasted on the RZE vs mostly brushed gun metal on the Zelos). The RZE is currently a decent amount more vs launch pricing of the Zelos, but they'll be close at retail. Ultimately, I'd personally probably give the very slight edge to the RZE (both at retail) due to the hardened coating but the Zelos at $329 is pretty hard to beat. Cheers
The coating on my Mako Ti has saved so many microscratches. I wouldn’t buy titanium again without the coating, its been that helpful so far (especially knowing how titanium looks after a while without it)
I agree, the coating is a godsend. I'd personally have gladly paid another ~$50 for it. Still a great watch and excellent value but I do miss that feature. Cheers
I've seen the same with bronze watches to stave off the patina. I'm a bit skeptical about avoiding scratches with it but am curious to try it as well. Cheers
Jonathan, I don’t understand how you “only” have 1.26k subscribers. Your reviews are informative and thorough, and the spectrum of watches you show is impressive. In any case, regarding this watch, I don’t know why, I like Zelos quite a bit but never enough to buy one to keep. Seems blasphemous for a watch enthusiast, but there you go. But hope springs eternal. I’m on Elshan’s newsletter, so I always keep 1 eye on what’s coming next!
Thank you so much for the kind words! That means a lot! I'm thankful for having such loyal supporters and imagine growth will come in time. If not, I think I have some of the best viewers in the community! I'll try not to judge 😉🤣 I'm sure one will speak to you eventually. Zelos has been running the gamut with styles lately. Besides, I love the brand, but there are also so many great watches out there. It's all about finding ones that speak to you. Cheers
The Zelos swordfish is a great watch. I’m enjoying the first version of the Swordfish. I think these dial colors for the most part are too muted and similar. I was hoping for a better choice of dial colors.
This is the first model in a long while I can remember in a long while that didn't include a teal option. It hasn't seemed to sell as well lately though. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Cheers
I haven't taken a measurement, but I'd call it a pretty typical gap for a curved case between the lugs. I've seen some people use generic curved end straps with success eliminating the gap and there are options like NATO's as well. I hope this helps. Cheers
Jonathan, have you weighed just the watch head without the bracelet? I have a Citizen Titanium Diver that I wear on a nato strap, so I’m curious how this Zelos compares without the bracelet.
Sorry but I have not. For comparison, the RZE Endeavour is 96.5g on the sized bracelet (vs 115g for the SF40). The RZE Resolute is 92g on the same sized bracelet, 60.3g on a Barton style thin canvas, and 65g on the stock leather backed canvas strap. I hope this helps.
Great review and opinions but too bad there isn't any close-up shot. Please do some close up shots for the dial. Also when you showcase the watch in different angles on your wrist you may try to minimise the reflection from the crystal. I couldn't really see the light play on the dial as there is excessive reflection.
Thanks for the kind words and feedback. I do have some close up shots on my Instagram page that may help. The lighting unfortunately wasn't ideal for outdoor footage (quick turnaround to help before launch) so I tried to capture both direct and indirect outdoor lighting. Cheers
It's hard to predict. The more popular ones can sell out in minutes to hours. They've all sold out on launch day sometimes, while other times it's taken longer. If there are any you really want, I'd plan to try to order right at launch. Cheers
My pleasure! I always strive to get info to everyone to help with launch decisions whenever possible. You can't go wrong with the forged carbon. That was my definite choice when it was initially released on the 42 mm version. I'd really like to see the red meteorite in person and more real world pics to get a better feel for it. Cheers
I have the green dial version. It's my first Zelos and second titanium watch. I am very impressed by the build quality and the lume is genuinely fantastic. I went with the green dial just to have something very different in my collection of black and white dial watches. The lack of anti-scratch coating may be an issue over time, but I'll just have to see how it wears. My other Ti watch is a Rado Captain Cook and has a DLC coating I believe, it is certainly scratch-free after 3 years of wear. However, the Rado cost me £1900 compared to the £280 for the Zelos including import duties. I'd say the build and finish is at least as good as the Rado, which is kind of crazy. The Rado on really beats the Zelos with it's 80hr power reserve ETA movement. But, I have a few NH35s and they have all been solid, and can be replaced for less than the cost of an ETA movement service.
Congrats on your first Zelos! The green looks fantastic and would have been on my list if I didn't already have it in bronze. You're spot on with your assessment. I've had quite a few Zelos across their price points and have found each to offer more than the price paid. I hope you enjoy! Cheers
Most buyers order directly through Zelos. There are some great dealers as well though: Stitches & Buckles, Serious Watches, Microbrand Store, etc. Cheers
I don't mind the NH35, but I wouldn't have minded a premium version at the same price as the Mako and adding the coating, toolless clasp, and Miyota movement. Cheers
I too am a big fan of the Miyota 9000 series movements. But I am most sensitive to price. I’d rather save $50-75 and have a NH35. Then again, I’ve gotten into watch modding/building, and NH35-compatible parts are plentiful. I’m probably biased 😁
A very good value watch, however I really dislike the clasp - the difference in colour is too different and it looks very odd. I own other titanium watches and you don't have the contrast in colour on those clasps
It may be exaggerated on camera. I just looked and it's pretty close to my eye and consistent with my prior uncoated Zelos Ti watches with SS clasps, if that helps. Cheers
Looking to make any purchases on Amazon? You can help support the channel FOR FREE by using my affiliate link:
amzn.to/3O0xqM7
Using this link may earn a small commission for any items purchased, not just the one linked. Thanks for the support!
Nice sleek and simple design.
Thanks for the sneak peak! 😃👍🏼
It is very well done and wears great. Thanks for watching! Cheers
thanks for this great review. you answered all my queries. god bless you.
Happy I could help! Thanks for watching. Cheers
Nice review as always!
Thank you so much! Cheers
This version looks great. Love the dial color and that lume is awesome! Thanks.
Elshan definitely knows what he's doing! This dial color and the subtle green glow against it in low lightning is killer. Cheers
Thank you,fantastic review
Thank you very much! Cheers
good review Jon.. informative..
Thank you very much! Cheers
Great review. Thank you sir
Thank you so much! Cheers
Thanks for your detailed and TIMELY review! I probably watched it 2 or 3 times, trying to decide if this slate blue/grey is nice enough to get. I think it is. Probably in person the dial will look amazing.
Thanks for the support! I'm glad I could help 😊 I've thoroughly enjoyed this color and hope you will as well. Cheers
@@JonathanTReviews I got it! Your review is great and it really helped me decide. Your comparison video was very good too. If you could do some close-ups of the dial with the watch on a table and not somewhat shaking in your hands that would be the only improvement I can offer.
Awesome, congrats! Thanks for the feedback. I'm always trying to improve 😊 Cheers
Great review as usual Jonathan, I'm planning on passing on this launch although the Satin variant might be too sexy to pass on....We'll see, waiting on five incoming Chaves and Chris Reeves knives this week lol.... I also promised myself I would wait on higher end movements and I believe I seen somewhere the Spearfish will have what I may be looking for....
Thanks buddy! The Spearfish should be really cool, scratching the itch for many since the ETA Swordfish options dried up. I'm looking forward to seeing more details on that one. Cheers
Well done, Jonathan. Thank you.
Thank you so much! Cheers
Great review buddy 👍
Thank you my friend! Cheers
Nice, I’ll be going for that slate blue one.
I don't think you'll be disappointed! It wasn't my first pick initially, but I fell in love in person. The color shift is tremendously dynamic. Cheers
Good review. I definitely need to consider a titanium piece. One of my stainless steel pieces, the case alone is 115 grams.
Thank you! Titanium tends to be a bit polarizing, as some feel it's too light or feels like "plastic", but I recommend trying it sometime. Beyond the weight, the metal itself has a different feel that I enjoy. Cheers
I love the Zelos Swordfish, I have got a 42 and a 40, both stainless steel. This particular colourway is so beautiful that I would get one if it was stainless steel or coated titanium. I would be OK paying a little extra for it. But the fact that it doesn't have hardening coating kills this for me sadly.
It is a great model. Understandable. I'd have preferred a little higher price with the coating too. Cheers
I’m torn on the date window, it’s small but that’s a good thing as it helps keep dial symmetry. I like no date dials but have noticed myself looking for the date on it sometimes. This might be the best of both worlds. Nice review again. Looking forward to seeing you do a review of the upcoming Great White!
I know what you mean. For me personally, I think it's a good size and well incorporated. I've had a few of this model now and never really had an issue. I wanted to mention it though, as it's unchanged and I know some complain about it. Thanks for the support! I'm not certain if I'll have the opportunity to review the Great White. Sadly, it's too large for my wrist/taste to purchase, so I will only be reviewing if it's sponsored. Cheers
@@JonathanTReviews PK reviewed the HH3 and complained about the weight several times. Of course he is week wristed!
It is a chunky little beast but I think carries its weight very well. Heavy but not just got the sake of it. It tends to be one of the polarizing models though. Cheers
Thanks so much for the information on this. This slate gray/blue is in my top three of this release. When Elshan mentioned no Ti coating I was a tad disappointed. I'm not hard on my watches but I would prefer the extra protecting. Still, I'll grab at least one of these.
Happy to help buddy! I came to like this color quite a lot preparing this review. It's a very attractive shade of blue when the light is right and otherwise a unique gray color with a hint of blue. I definitely agree about the coating. It's not a deal-breaker but I would have preferred to pay a bit more and have it for added peace of mind. Can't wait to see your pics! Cheers
The color seems hard to pin down kind of like that "black" of the HH3 release. Not a bad thing. Also, does that date really match?
It is very much so! I tried to capture multiple lighting conditions for that reason. I'll double check when I get home but I'm pretty sure it's a solid match.
Hoping to buy the satin titanium version. The SF40 looks amazing with the darker tint of titanium
Sweet! That is my top pick from this batch as well. I agree, the coloration is perfect for this one. It's very dramatic seeing the difference in the comparison video I'll be posting in a couple days. Cheers
Ordered mine 1 second after sales started lol. They aren't sold out yet. Got yours?
Haha, that's awesome! Which one did you get? Cheers
@@JonathanTReviews the ti satin version, so shiny and just celebrates titanium. The dial reminds me of a saw blade :)
Was thinking about the blue but i have a Steinhart ocean 39 in black/blue and i want to buy different types of watches ( i don't have lot of them). Love my Steinhart......
It does have a really cool industrial/distressed look! Always a good call to diversify the collection. I think you'll be pleased with this new addition. Cheers
Great review again. If you had to choose between the RZE and SF40 which one would it be?
Thank you! You definitely can't go wrong with either. Both wear excellently, are great designs, pack a lot of features for the price, etc. Both are a solid construction but the RZE is noticeably more light (a pro for some people and con for others). The same is true for dial (sand only on RZE vs dial choices) and case appearance (lighter and blasted on the RZE vs mostly brushed gun metal on the Zelos). The RZE is currently a decent amount more vs launch pricing of the Zelos, but they'll be close at retail. Ultimately, I'd personally probably give the very slight edge to the RZE (both at retail) due to the hardened coating but the Zelos at $329 is pretty hard to beat. Cheers
The coating on my Mako Ti has saved so many microscratches. I wouldn’t buy titanium again without the coating, its been that helpful so far (especially knowing how titanium looks after a while without it)
True my mako ti hasn't gotten any scratches ( yet ) and I haven't been going easy on it.
I agree, the coating is a godsend. I'd personally have gladly paid another ~$50 for it. Still a great watch and excellent value but I do miss that feature. Cheers
Same here. The coating has kept even the clasp looking brand new.
I've seen a few people that apply ceramic coating to watches to help with this issue, seems to do the trick however I've not done it personally.
I've seen the same with bronze watches to stave off the patina. I'm a bit skeptical about avoiding scratches with it but am curious to try it as well. Cheers
Jonathan, I don’t understand how you “only” have 1.26k subscribers. Your reviews are informative and thorough, and the spectrum of watches you show is impressive. In any case, regarding this watch, I don’t know why, I like Zelos quite a bit but never enough to buy one to keep. Seems blasphemous for a watch enthusiast, but there you go. But hope springs eternal. I’m on Elshan’s newsletter, so I always keep 1 eye on what’s coming next!
Thank you so much for the kind words! That means a lot! I'm thankful for having such loyal supporters and imagine growth will come in time. If not, I think I have some of the best viewers in the community!
I'll try not to judge 😉🤣 I'm sure one will speak to you eventually. Zelos has been running the gamut with styles lately. Besides, I love the brand, but there are also so many great watches out there. It's all about finding ones that speak to you. Cheers
The Zelos swordfish is a great watch. I’m enjoying the first version of the Swordfish. I think these dial colors for the most part are too muted and similar. I was hoping for a better choice of dial colors.
This is the first model in a long while I can remember in a long while that didn't include a teal option. It hasn't seemed to sell as well lately though. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Cheers
How big of a gap is there on the end links between the lugs when worn on a strap or band!?
I haven't taken a measurement, but I'd call it a pretty typical gap for a curved case between the lugs. I've seen some people use generic curved end straps with success eliminating the gap and there are options like NATO's as well. I hope this helps. Cheers
Jonathan, have you weighed just the watch head without the bracelet? I have a Citizen Titanium Diver that I wear on a nato strap, so I’m curious how this Zelos compares without the bracelet.
Sorry but I have not. For comparison, the RZE Endeavour is 96.5g on the sized bracelet (vs 115g for the SF40). The RZE Resolute is 92g on the same sized bracelet, 60.3g on a Barton style thin canvas, and 65g on the stock leather backed canvas strap. I hope this helps.
Great review and opinions but too bad there isn't any close-up shot. Please do some close up shots for the dial. Also when you showcase the watch in different angles on your wrist you may try to minimise the reflection from the crystal. I couldn't really see the light play on the dial as there is excessive reflection.
Thanks for the kind words and feedback. I do have some close up shots on my Instagram page that may help. The lighting unfortunately wasn't ideal for outdoor footage (quick turnaround to help before launch) so I tried to capture both direct and indirect outdoor lighting. Cheers
I love the SF40 and have three, but I have the say the Mako III Titanium is better in every way.
I can't disagree on either count. The SF40 (all variants) is a great watch, but that Mako Ti is approaching do-all perfection. Cheers
How long do you think these will be in stock? It sounds like they usually sell out fast. Days? Weeks?
It's hard to predict. The more popular ones can sell out in minutes to hours. They've all sold out on launch day sometimes, while other times it's taken longer. If there are any you really want, I'd plan to try to order right at launch. Cheers
Nice! Thanks for this. Quick with it! Probably getting the forged carbon, the red meteorite is off putting imo.
My pleasure! I always strive to get info to everyone to help with launch decisions whenever possible. You can't go wrong with the forged carbon. That was my definite choice when it was initially released on the 42 mm version. I'd really like to see the red meteorite in person and more real world pics to get a better feel for it. Cheers
I have the green dial version. It's my first Zelos and second titanium watch. I am very impressed by the build quality and the lume is genuinely fantastic. I went with the green dial just to have something very different in my collection of black and white dial watches. The lack of anti-scratch coating may be an issue over time, but I'll just have to see how it wears. My other Ti watch is a Rado Captain Cook and has a DLC coating I believe, it is certainly scratch-free after 3 years of wear. However, the Rado cost me £1900 compared to the £280 for the Zelos including import duties. I'd say the build and finish is at least as good as the Rado, which is kind of crazy. The Rado on really beats the Zelos with it's 80hr power reserve ETA movement. But, I have a few NH35s and they have all been solid, and can be replaced for less than the cost of an ETA movement service.
Congrats on your first Zelos! The green looks fantastic and would have been on my list if I didn't already have it in bronze. You're spot on with your assessment. I've had quite a few Zelos across their price points and have found each to offer more than the price paid. I hope you enjoy! Cheers
Where did you buy it
Most buyers order directly through Zelos. There are some great dealers as well though: Stitches & Buckles, Serious Watches, Microbrand Store, etc. Cheers
@@JonathanTReviews thanks!
Hey, how about a 1 year later update ? How is it doing ?
too late for the brushed titanium dial, went for the sand dial - I don't know why it isn't rated better
Bummer you missed the Satin but the Sand is a classic colorway. I hope you love it! Cheers
@@JonathanTReviews may be a blessing in disguise, the Sand sure does look pretty nice on the photos - let's see how it looks on the wrist
I look forward to your thoughts! Cheers
Wow , your video is in sync with their email notice of the drop ! Lol
Haha! It may or may not be a coincidence 🤣 I hover over the publish button until it's official 🥵😁 Cheers
@@JonathanTReviews I figured as much , yep , you have the exclusive showcase 👍
Wish this had a highbeat 9015 engine. I got the titaium Mako with it, so I will pass on this NH35 Ti.
I don't mind the NH35, but I wouldn't have minded a premium version at the same price as the Mako and adding the coating, toolless clasp, and Miyota movement. Cheers
I too am a big fan of the Miyota 9000 series movements. But I am most sensitive to price. I’d rather save $50-75 and have a NH35. Then again, I’ve gotten into watch modding/building, and NH35-compatible parts are plentiful. I’m probably biased 😁
A very good value watch, however I really dislike the clasp - the difference in colour is too different and it looks very odd.
I own other titanium watches and you don't have the contrast in colour on those clasps
It may be exaggerated on camera. I just looked and it's pretty close to my eye and consistent with my prior uncoated Zelos Ti watches with SS clasps, if that helps. Cheers