I have two watches with Sea-Gull movements in them. An Alpha Chronograph (Big red Daytona 6265 homage, I have the one with the discontinued "chronometer" dial), with the ST1903 movement. The other a Sugess Moonphase Master (the Breguet'ish one) with the ST2108. Both perform quite well considering their price, the Alpha runs about -10 s/d, and the Sugess about 7 or 8 s/d. I put the Sugess on a deep blue sailcloth strap, which also fitted the original butterfly clasp, and it looks very nice in sunny weather. I bought it primarily for using when flyfishing, as I like to dress up a bit and also like to keep track of the moon. The Alpha was more a speculation as I bought it used just as they had to change the dial, amd therefore remove the red letters above the 6 o'clock sub dial, and I had a hunch it would be the most desirable four-digit ref.no. Daytona homage from China, as it was the only one with a mechanical movement, domed acrylic crystal, and the correct layout of the bezel tachymeter. I have a buddy who is a high-end watch collector, and even he likes that one. Of course, one has to take it for what it essentially is; a sub £200 Chinese homage watch. But I think it might be the closest I'll come to own my "Big Red" grail. And even if I did chip out the £90k for a real McCoy, I wouldn't dare wearing it much outside anyway... Lasty, very nice video. I don't think I have come across your channel before. But I really like your content, very straightforward, informative, entertaining, and pleasing. No 30-second intro, nor 6 minute B-roll, or add for mail-order cereal freemium mobile games. Keep up the good work, and consider yourself a subscriber richer. Cheers, mate!
I have a 38mm acrylic 1963 from Ali, and it’s been fantastic. I’m actually really surprised at the reliability so far (1.5yrs). My main concern when buying was that the movement would fail, but so far so good! I also have an ST19 in my Lorier Gemini, me that has been performing great too. Fantastic value for the price.
@ajmarion My understanding is that issues tend to arise if you use the chronograph a lot. Re setting the chrono puts quite a big shock through the movement (apparently) which these movements aren't good at coping with long term.
@@AndySmith4501 that makes sense - honestly I don’t use the chronograph all that much lol, but sometimes when I do stop and reset it, the chrono hand resets to like 8 o’clock instead of 12. Happens maybe 1 out of 10 times, and then I’ll usually just have to run it again and it will reset normally, but that’s really the only issue I’ve encountered with them so far
I've had my old 38mm for several years, love it. Still keeps good time. My wrist is 7.5 in, but I like anything between 36 and 40mm. I like the movement fine, reading a watchmaker's teardown report years ago the only negative was debris and other quality control issues on some examples. I seem to have gotten a "good" one, no apparent issues after years of use. It's a good solid movement design. Don't think I'd go for a moon phase myself, I like the pretty simplicity on a simple leather stitched strap. It always reminds me of my time touring various Chinese factories back in the 90s. Great watch
I own a "seagull 1963", the regular version with the 38mm case, acrylic crystal and gooseneck movement. Bought it for 170 brand new on the usual Chinese websites. Works flawlessly. It's crazy that we can get a mechanical chronograph for this cheap, especially a column-wheel and especially at this size (I mean look at the size of the most famous chronographs out there, they are all bigger). The next column-wheel chrono I can think of costs over 3k. Even non-column-wheels, they cost well over 1k. Some models from the likes of Tissot can be found for 300-500 on the grey market dealers, but well..they are just ugly and 45mm+. I don't care if this one is chinese, if they are all copies or not, the manufacturer, whatever. The movement alone makes it a worth addition to my collection. EDIT: Oh and I also own a MoonSwatch. Was one of the "lucky" and crazy ones to get it on release day. I live in a small country and was the 7th in line. Got there at 4am and I was able to get a Mission to the Moon. Let me tell you I have NEVER wore it lol. It's a piece of crap, really. It's sitting in a box, maybe waiting to make a profit in a few years. The truth is that it was a big marketing play, but the watches are absolute crap. Mine is pretty misaligned on the bezel, on the chrongraph hand, the case scratches by simply removing the straps, the straps are the worst, etc. Forget about them. So many great waches that we can get at the same price.
@ConcertGrande i just bought it on AliExpress. Chose the one with the most sales and best reviews. Everything went great and it arrived in 2 weeks (I'm in Europe). I would advise to wait for a discount or sales time. You can get them below 200. If you are afraid of ordering from Ali, well there are various websites selling them. I can't comment on them since I've never experienced them, but the truth is that they are all coming from China - those websites just claim that they do their own QC, some have a warehouse already in europe, etc. Do your research.
@@tiagodvt hank you for your reply .I have been to their own site and they are showing a price of almost $300 so I will go to Ali's and wait for the right opportunity .When you talk about the gooseneck movement it is the original 1963 seagull movement .Excuse me I am not a specialist and I just want reliable on my wrist that works everyday especially at a fair price .I agree with you about the provenance I just like it and at this price !!! I am in Europe too
I got one, nervously from Ali... But it arrived ok. I have the 40, and gotta say, I was impressed. I agree about the hands, but at that price point, hey, still cool.
OK, here comes some actual talk about this watch. Fasten you seat belts and listen to an expert. (35 years as a watchmaker) I have bought a 38mm 1963 and absolutely love it. I bought it second had and it still looks great. A lot of people gripe about the supplied strap. I believe it adds character of the watch. Dial and hands are absolutely lovely for this price range. The case seems to be well made and is holding out very well to scratching. Case back has an anti-reflective coating!!! Movement is well finished as long as you don't look with an eye loupe. Column wheel chronograph is peculiar because the column wheel does not turn for reset. That said. A lot of people opt to upgrade to the "Goose neck" version. In reality it's almost a useless upgrade. However there's another reason why not to upgrade. I regulated my watch ( it's keeping 1 second a day now) using the screw used with the goose neck regulator. As I continued to try to speed up the timing nothing was happening. The spring was not pushing the regulator to the fast side, because it was purely ornamental. It served absolutely no purpose. There was no tension exerted by this spring. It's just there to give an illusion of a useful upgrade. Buy the watch and love it for what it is. Wear is and be happy.
I bought my younger son his first watch a month ago fir 8th grade graduation. A man needs a watch with his dress clothes. It was a seagull 1963 on a leather strap.he loves it
1:15 Ha ha funny you should mention that as I was a field artillery meteorological crewman in the army. We used watches for timing our "flights" but it was generally our own Timex's or whatever to do that lol...p.s. I have an example of the Seagull 1963 and it is a most beloved watch in my collection. Thanks for sharing.
I've got the 38mm Seagull with Swan neck regulator adjustment. It's one of my best time keepers. It gains two seconds over the course of the day and then loses them at night at rest, meaning I have a net discrepancy of virtually zero. This watch belongs in every collection
Thanks Max once again for a great history lesson. After watching this review made me appreciate the Seagull just a bit more. I never got a Moonswatch, it boiled down value although it still sits in the back of my mind. I personally feel I would pick this Seagull up first. Thank again Max.
The 1963 offers a lot for the money, but I would recommend to buy it already used, to be able to know if it's working well and precisely. It's a manual winding chronograph used by army pilots, there's lot to love in it...
I've recently picked up a Moonphase Master from Sugess which uses Seagull movements. The strap was a bit cheap feeling but I picked up a decent leather one. But the watch and movement seem great so far. I normally buy diver watches but I wanted something a little more classical and this fits the bill. The display back with the gold swan neck mod is pretty and I can't fault its timekeeping. However, some have said after a month or so they had issues so here's hoping I don't, but I think they're worth a punt.
I love the 1963 watch and own the 38mm version. I love the moon phase complication but not on my 6.25 wrist sadly so I guess I have to stick to the original. Great video!
My first chrono i purchased was the Sugess Chrono Heritage ST1901 with the swan neck. I threw it on a brown Barton rally strap and frankly love the watch. It looks smaller than its 39mm would indicate but I appreciate the vintage size of the 1960's. Originally my Sugess was meant to serve as a place holder until the Seiko Panda Chrono came out but I loved my Sugess so much that it resides in the spot next to my Seiko in my watch garage. You brought up the fact that you didn't particuarly like the hands on the the Seagull 1963 watches and I would have to agree you. That's what kept me away from the the Seagull brand of watches and to Sugess. I always recommend Sugess to someone just getting into the automatic watch hobby.
Good comparison. I have two variants of the Seagull 1963. I honestly forgot the MoonSwatch existed. But money for value, the MoonSwatch is just not worth it and getting a regular Swatch would be better and cost saving.
I have the 40mm/SS/Swan Neck/Sapphire and it’s *awesome*. The thin stick hands are awesome too: my first chronograph that I can actually read at all times. Those hands never obscure any of the dials, at any position. I have watches that cost thousands, and I also have several MoonSwatches - but since I bought this 1963 I haven’t taken it off!
I have been sitting on the fence about getting a seagull mechanical Chrono, but never liked the small case and the dial was always missing something on the 1963. As soon as saw this version I ordered it immediately.
"If you own a MoonSwatch, I still love you ..." I sense a "but" in there somewhere 😄👍🏼 I may end up visiting that Seagull 1963 website out of Belgium. Thanks for sharing.
I have both Seagul and MoonSwatch (Mercury) . Moonswatch is a clear WIN! Issue with Seagul about - 22 hour of power reserve (you have to wind it everyday) Very thin chronograph hand (you have to look for it when its running) Chronograph has only 60 minutes (where as MoonSwatch has 24 hour chrono) Segul's chronograph is prone to break (read forums). Seagul is heavier and you feel it on your wrist aspecially after wearing MoonSwatch. Moonswatch is more accurate time keeper.
Seagull is underrated. This week I bought a 1963 for $61, an Ocean Star for $200 and a Double Skeleton M182SK for $140. My green Ocean Star blows my green Seiko SRPD63 right out of the water with 300M vs 100M water resistance. I also own two Fabulous Theorema watches powered by the Seagull 3620 mechanical movements. Although all of them are automatic with one or the other dying every other day, these legends are worth their weight in gold. Who in their right mind buys a Swatch??? Lol...
I got a Sugess Moonphase that uses the same movement and it is gorgeous and amazing value. When I wear it, I likento pretend it's some $50,000 piece of haute horology
Finally somebody said it! I have a decent watch collection but dollar for dollar this is the best value watch I have. Chronometer, calendar and moon phase all for that price? Come on! I agree that the caliber is very nice to look at too and the finishing is amazing for the price. Precision-wise I am very happy with it too. No wonder it gets a ton of time on my wrist! I also got the Mars moonswatch (and my wife got the Venus). What a piece of trash...
Sorry Mr. WatchCrunch guy, I have always thought of you as "watch snob reviewer expensive only" kind of guy. My perception shattered when you talk about Seagull, a mechanical chrono that peasants can actually afford.
He is Chinese or somewhat of that variant (sorry, no offense). I'm Asian myself - jungle type. This could have a cultural thing attached. I really do love underdog automatic watches which is why I am here. Watch servicing company really hate me and give me looks. I always give them weird watches. Poljot, sea gull and old Seiko's. My point is, he could still be a snob - offense intended hehe
I've has a 1963 for over a year and it's proven to be more accurate the my Seiko divers. The straps supplied are crap but once you get a decent 18mm strap it looks way more expensive than it is.
Bought my 40mm 1963 from Amazon, love its looks but don't dig it out to wear as much as i should. I would really like a non- chronograph version of this with that moon phase complication.
Whilst it is a very intriguing offering to have a mechanical chrono moonphase at this price point there is definitely a big lack in finish for me which keeps me from falling in love with it. Otherwise it ticks many boxes. Nice video!
Got my 1963 from a company called HKED, they do a more "faithful" reissue to the original vintage and is also much better with QC. Their hands are also lightly different, more like sharp needles, rather than stamped out toothpicks haha
I love it but I've had 4 or 5 different ST19 movement, from 1963's to Baltic chronos and the top pusher often has a double click "issue" which does not feel great, so I wouldn't buy one personally.
I have a seagull 1963 from aliexpress, lol watch hand fell off after a month but was able to get a local watch maker to fix it for 40. the swan neck regulator is more for show than actually functional as the adjustment screw is too short and screwed all the way down leaving no room for fine adjustment to slow down the watch (perhaps there is another way to regulate it before using the fine tuning screw? please let me know if anyone knows). there is some alignment issue when resetting the chronograph (it went to either 1 or 59 and the small subdial to 1 or 29), usually just run it one more time and reset it it'll align right. Overall the movement winding feel smooth, run consistently around +6s/day during normal daily wear; when dial down it is closer to +0 to +2 (may be that's how it was regulated in the factory) Overall fun watch to have, I personally like the 38mm as it is almost exactly like the vintage chronograph watch from the 50's
This is quite a nice watch. It has been available for quite a while. I bought this same watch, branded Sugess, from Ali about four years ago for $US200. Still working very well. The only differences from the one reviewed here is the absence of the red star and text on the dial.
You're aware that the Seagull 1963 is available in all possible case sizes, dials etc.?? Not to mention so many different brands using the same ST1901 movement offering endless options, for all tastes...
There are many nice inexpensive watches. However if you want to buy a MoonSwatch, you are not looking for another brand, even if the Seagull is nice. So you don't skip the MoonSwatch, you possibly buy a Seagull or another brand if you like it, but when you want a watch such as the MoonSwatch, you don't skip it for something else.
To each their own Buy whatever makes you happy, not what other people think is "cool" I own a ton of weird Chinese watches because I enjoy wearing them, not because they have any reputation or status of any sorts lol If people wanna buy a moonswatch because they personally like it, then they should buy a moonswatch, they look neat too
Can't see why a 38mm would feel too small on a 6.5 inch wrist. My wrist is 7.25 inch and it's looks great on a cheapo thick nubuck Bison strap from Amazon. I have a swan neck version made by Sugess and it's indistinguishable from the "official" version. I love the watch but one thing I do have an issue with is that I'm only getting about 25 hours out of a full wind. I bought it from a UK seller and had a replacement sent out but it wasn't much better. A bit of digging around suggests I'm not the only one with this anomaly.
max, great vid again! i have two nieces graduating from college this summer, and i'd like to ignite their love and appreciation for mechanical watches. truth is, i've already began - we each have our own matching casio databanks, and one of them is in love with my tank. i'm wondering if you have any recommendations for a 36mm (or smaller) mechanical watch? also, i do have an st19 by way of the series II lorier gemini. it's basically my daily now. no problems. i love it. wish i had a spare for the day this one expires haha
I personally think you get more for your buck with microbrands and I've picked up many for under£200 all solid builds with great water resistance and quality you hasn't beat them for the money
Watch snobs can say what they want, the Swiss Venus 175 movement (now the modified and improved Chinese Tianjin (Seagull) ST19) is pretty similar to other iconic mechanical chronograph movements : Rolex 72B, Valjoux 727, Omega 321 or Patek Philippe CH 27. The fact that you can get watches with this movement under $200 is insane! Remember, the Paul Newman Daytona (6239) has a Rolex 72A / Valjoux 722 (17 jewels - 5 Hz / 18,000 bph - 40 hours power reserve) compared to the ST19 (21 jewels - 6 Hz / 21,600 bph - 42 hours power reserve ). Also you can't compare 2023 China to 1963 China. Chinese manufacturing quality is now excellent.
Thank you for this video and releasing me from my fixation on the moons-watch that honestly is just a result of being a watch nut and being indoctrinated by the #watchfam about how important having the moonswatch is. This seagull is way better AND avalable
There are other brands that make variations of the same watch with the same movement (without the red star) Sugess for example have a few without the red star!
Join the extended discussion: www.watchcrunch.com/Max/posts/the-new-40mm-seagull-1963-is-magic-28063
My wife loves her Seagull 1963. Just excellent! It gives you the feeling of a beautifully designed movement and a gorgeous dial and case.
Right on! She's got good taste 👍
I totally agree. I own the same Seagull from the Belgian shop, and I am extremely happy with it so far!
I've had the 1963 for years love it & No problems ⌚
Such good value!
I gave mine a light bump and it stopped working
I have two watches with Sea-Gull movements in them. An Alpha Chronograph (Big red Daytona 6265 homage, I have the one with the discontinued "chronometer" dial), with the ST1903 movement. The other a Sugess Moonphase Master (the Breguet'ish one) with the ST2108. Both perform quite well considering their price, the Alpha runs about -10 s/d, and the Sugess about 7 or 8 s/d.
I put the Sugess on a deep blue sailcloth strap, which also fitted the original butterfly clasp, and it looks very nice in sunny weather. I bought it primarily for using when flyfishing, as I like to dress up a bit and also like to keep track of the moon. The Alpha was more a speculation as I bought it used just as they had to change the dial, amd therefore remove the red letters above the 6 o'clock sub dial, and I had a hunch it would be the most desirable four-digit ref.no. Daytona homage from China, as it was the only one with a mechanical movement, domed acrylic crystal, and the correct layout of the bezel tachymeter. I have a buddy who is a high-end watch collector, and even he likes that one. Of course, one has to take it for what it essentially is; a sub £200 Chinese homage watch. But I think it might be the closest I'll come to own my "Big Red" grail. And even if I did chip out the £90k for a real McCoy, I wouldn't dare wearing it much outside anyway...
Lasty, very nice video. I don't think I have come across your channel before. But I really like your content, very straightforward, informative, entertaining, and pleasing. No 30-second intro, nor 6 minute B-roll, or add for mail-order cereal freemium mobile games. Keep up the good work, and consider yourself a subscriber richer. Cheers, mate!
I have a 38mm acrylic 1963 from Ali, and it’s been fantastic. I’m actually really surprised at the reliability so far (1.5yrs). My main concern when buying was that the movement would fail, but so far so good! I also have an ST19 in my Lorier Gemini, me that has been performing great too. Fantastic value for the price.
Same here. I have the 40mm with sapphire. It really is shocking how well the thing works, and keeps working.
@ajmarion
My understanding is that issues tend to arise if you use the chronograph a lot. Re setting the chrono puts quite a big shock through the movement (apparently) which these movements aren't good at coping with long term.
@@AndySmith4501 that makes sense - honestly I don’t use the chronograph all that much lol, but sometimes when I do stop and reset it, the chrono hand resets to like 8 o’clock instead of 12. Happens maybe 1 out of 10 times, and then I’ll usually just have to run it again and it will reset normally, but that’s really the only issue I’ve encountered with them so far
I've had my old 38mm for several years, love it. Still keeps good time. My wrist is 7.5 in, but I like anything between 36 and 40mm. I like the movement fine, reading a watchmaker's teardown report years ago the only negative was debris and other quality control issues on some examples. I seem to have gotten a "good" one, no apparent issues after years of use. It's a good solid movement design. Don't think I'd go for a moon phase myself, I like the pretty simplicity on a simple leather stitched strap. It always reminds me of my time touring various Chinese factories back in the 90s. Great watch
I own a "seagull 1963", the regular version with the 38mm case, acrylic crystal and gooseneck movement. Bought it for 170 brand new on the usual Chinese websites. Works flawlessly. It's crazy that we can get a mechanical chronograph for this cheap, especially a column-wheel and especially at this size (I mean look at the size of the most famous chronographs out there, they are all bigger). The next column-wheel chrono I can think of costs over 3k. Even non-column-wheels, they cost well over 1k. Some models from the likes of Tissot can be found for 300-500 on the grey market dealers, but well..they are just ugly and 45mm+. I don't care if this one is chinese, if they are all copies or not, the manufacturer, whatever. The movement alone makes it a worth addition to my collection.
EDIT: Oh and I also own a MoonSwatch. Was one of the "lucky" and crazy ones to get it on release day. I live in a small country and was the 7th in line. Got there at 4am and I was able to get a Mission to the Moon. Let me tell you I have NEVER wore it lol. It's a piece of crap, really. It's sitting in a box, maybe waiting to make a profit in a few years. The truth is that it was a big marketing play, but the watches are absolute crap. Mine is pretty misaligned on the bezel, on the chrongraph hand, the case scratches by simply removing the straps, the straps are the worst, etc. Forget about them. So many great waches that we can get at the same price.
You heard it guys, get the real mech Chrono👌
Ground control to Major Tom 🚀🧑🚀
thanks for your information ! Can you give me the chineese website to buy a seagull1963 version 38mm ? i will appreciate your help ! regards André
@ConcertGrande i just bought it on AliExpress. Chose the one with the most sales and best reviews. Everything went great and it arrived in 2 weeks (I'm in Europe). I would advise to wait for a discount or sales time. You can get them below 200.
If you are afraid of ordering from Ali, well there are various websites selling them. I can't comment on them since I've never experienced them, but the truth is that they are all coming from China - those websites just claim that they do their own QC, some have a warehouse already in europe, etc. Do your research.
@@tiagodvt hank you for your reply .I have been to their own site and they are showing a price of almost $300 so I will go to Ali's and wait for the right opportunity .When you talk about the gooseneck movement it is the original 1963 seagull movement .Excuse me I am not a specialist and I just want reliable on my wrist that works everyday especially at a fair price .I agree with you about the provenance I just like it and at this price !!! I am in Europe too
I bought a 38mm Seagull 1963 from Poljot 24 in 2019. I got the Sapphire chrystal on a Rios light brown strap.
I have had no problems with it.
I got one, nervously from Ali... But it arrived ok. I have the 40, and gotta say, I was impressed. I agree about the hands, but at that price point, hey, still cool.
The 38 Seagul 1963 with acrylic crystal really shines on a Forstner Komfit
OK, here comes some actual talk about this watch. Fasten you seat belts and listen to an expert. (35 years as a watchmaker)
I have bought a 38mm 1963 and absolutely love it. I bought it second had and it still looks great.
A lot of people gripe about the supplied strap. I believe it adds character of the watch. Dial and hands are absolutely lovely for this price range. The case seems to be well made and is holding out very well to scratching.
Case back has an anti-reflective coating!!! Movement is well finished as long as you don't look with an eye loupe. Column wheel chronograph is peculiar because the column wheel does not turn for reset.
That said. A lot of people opt to upgrade to the "Goose neck" version. In reality it's almost a useless upgrade. However there's another reason why not to upgrade.
I regulated my watch ( it's keeping 1 second a day now) using the screw used with the goose neck regulator. As I continued to try to speed up the timing nothing was happening. The spring was not pushing the regulator to the fast side, because it was purely ornamental. It served absolutely no purpose. There was no tension exerted by this spring. It's just there to give an illusion of a useful upgrade.
Buy the watch and love it for what it is. Wear is and be happy.
I love my Seagull 1963! Love it love it love it!!! I am really in love! I am considering the moon phase but want to get a Baltic first.
I bought my younger son his first watch a month ago fir 8th grade graduation. A man needs a watch with his dress clothes. It was a seagull 1963 on a leather strap.he loves it
1:15 Ha ha funny you should mention that as I was a field artillery meteorological crewman in the army. We used watches for timing our "flights" but it was generally our own Timex's or whatever to do that lol...p.s. I have an example of the Seagull 1963 and it is a most beloved watch in my collection. Thanks for sharing.
I've got the 38mm Seagull with Swan neck regulator adjustment. It's one of my best time keepers. It gains two seconds over the course of the day and then loses them at night at rest, meaning I have a net discrepancy of virtually zero. This watch belongs in every collection
That actually looks very attractive. I don't have a chronograph or a moon phase watch in my collection and with this one I will have both. Great video
Thanks Max once again for a great history lesson. After watching this review made me appreciate the Seagull just a bit more. I never got a Moonswatch, it boiled down value although it still sits in the back of my mind. I personally feel I would pick this Seagull up first. Thank again Max.
The 1963 offers a lot for the money, but I would recommend to buy it already used, to be able to know if it's working well and precisely.
It's a manual winding chronograph used by army pilots, there's lot to love in it...
I've recently picked up a Moonphase Master from Sugess which uses Seagull movements. The strap was a bit cheap feeling but I picked up a decent leather one. But the watch and movement seem great so far. I normally buy diver watches but I wanted something a little more classical and this fits the bill. The display back with the gold swan neck mod is pretty and I can't fault its timekeeping. However, some have said after a month or so they had issues so here's hoping I don't, but I think they're worth a punt.
Just bought the 60 anniversary model in bronze and 38 mm. Love it
For the price and what you get, I can agree with you here!
Cool video, Max🤙
Great video Max! I really enjoyed it. This would be a good upgrade to the original 1963.
Thanks! I was pleasantly surprised 👍
This looks vaguely Breitling-dresswatch-esque. I'm tempted and intrigued.
I love the 1963 watch and own the 38mm version. I love the moon phase complication but not on my 6.25 wrist sadly so I guess I have to stick to the original. Great video!
My first chrono i purchased was the Sugess Chrono Heritage ST1901 with the swan neck. I threw it on a brown Barton rally strap and frankly love the watch. It looks smaller than its 39mm would indicate but I appreciate the vintage size of the 1960's. Originally my Sugess was meant to serve as a place holder until the Seiko Panda Chrono came out but I loved my Sugess so much that it resides in the spot next to my Seiko in my watch garage.
You brought up the fact that you didn't particuarly like the hands on the the Seagull 1963 watches and I would have to agree you. That's what kept me away from the the Seagull brand of watches and to Sugess. I always recommend Sugess to someone just getting into the automatic watch hobby.
Good comparison. I have two variants of the Seagull 1963. I honestly forgot the MoonSwatch existed. But money for value, the MoonSwatch is just not worth it and getting a regular Swatch would be better and cost saving.
I got one from HKED with the original logo. Excellent watch for the money.
I have the 40mm/SS/Swan Neck/Sapphire and it’s *awesome*.
The thin stick hands are awesome too: my first chronograph that I can actually read at all times. Those hands never obscure any of the dials, at any position.
I have watches that cost thousands, and I also have several MoonSwatches - but since I bought this 1963 I haven’t taken it off!
I absolutely love my Seagull 1963 38mm and I have a 6.75 inch wrist. I want this 40mm moon phase now
My 38mm 1963 has a 1901 movement (one more jewel?). It's still running fine. I'de be tempted by a 38mm moon phase.
Same here 38mm is perfect for me. I wanted the truest form of the watch. I will go for a 38mm Moon phase for sure!
all ST1901 movements have 21 jewels these days! The original movement from 60-70 years ago had 19 but over the years they upgraded it :)
There are so many versions of this watch, I've been looking for over a month and I still haven't decided!
Great watch, and definitely a great chronograph for that price. I like that moon phase also. Great video 👍🏽
Awesome video. I personally prefer the styling of the Sugess .
Agree Max, great video....
I have been sitting on the fence about getting a seagull mechanical Chrono, but never liked the small case and the dial was always missing something on the 1963. As soon as saw this version I ordered it immediately.
I have a less complicated version of it and I love it!
Extra points for weather balloon operators:)
"If you own a MoonSwatch, I still love you ..." I sense a "but" in there somewhere 😄👍🏼
I may end up visiting that Seagull 1963 website out of Belgium. Thanks for sharing.
I have both Seagul and MoonSwatch (Mercury) . Moonswatch is a clear WIN! Issue with Seagul about - 22 hour of power reserve (you have to wind it everyday) Very thin chronograph hand (you have to look for it when its running) Chronograph has only 60 minutes (where as MoonSwatch has 24 hour chrono) Segul's chronograph is prone to break (read forums). Seagul is heavier and you feel it on your wrist aspecially after wearing MoonSwatch. Moonswatch is more accurate time keeper.
Btw the red Chinese texts read: "To serve the people (citizens)"
Glad to have stumbled on to your channel. Loving your content 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼
Cheers Melvs 😊
I got a 38mm for myself and think the size fits the style.
Still enjoy my 38 from time to time but it is indeed a little bubble on the wrist. Part of its charm IMO.
If Seagull read this, there are lots of 40mm watch case with less than 48mm lug to lug, please make it happen Seagull :)
NICE❤Thank you Max
You got it 💯
I have a 1963. Love it!
Seagull is underrated. This week I bought a 1963 for $61, an Ocean Star for $200 and a Double Skeleton M182SK for $140. My green Ocean Star blows my green Seiko SRPD63 right out of the water with 300M vs 100M water resistance. I also own two Fabulous Theorema watches powered by the Seagull 3620 mechanical movements. Although all of them are automatic with one or the other dying every other day, these legends are worth their weight in gold.
Who in their right mind buys a Swatch??? Lol...
I got a Sugess Moonphase that uses the same movement and it is gorgeous and amazing value. When I wear it, I likento pretend it's some $50,000 piece of haute horology
Finally somebody said it! I have a decent watch collection but dollar for dollar this is the best value watch I have. Chronometer, calendar and moon phase all for that price? Come on! I agree that the caliber is very nice to look at too and the finishing is amazing for the price. Precision-wise I am very happy with it too. No wonder it gets a ton of time on my wrist! I also got the Mars moonswatch (and my wife got the Venus). What a piece of trash...
Sorry Mr. WatchCrunch guy, I have always thought of you as "watch snob reviewer expensive only" kind of guy. My perception shattered when you talk about Seagull, a mechanical chrono that peasants can actually afford.
“Mechanical chrono” and “peasants” should not be together, this is not good
He is Chinese or somewhat of that variant (sorry, no offense). I'm Asian myself - jungle type. This could have a cultural thing attached. I really do love underdog automatic watches which is why I am here. Watch servicing company really hate me and give me looks. I always give them weird watches. Poljot, sea gull and old Seiko's. My point is, he could still be a snob - offense intended hehe
I've has a 1963 for over a year and it's proven to be more accurate the my Seiko divers. The straps supplied are crap but once you get a decent 18mm strap it looks way more expensive than it is.
Bought my 40mm 1963 from Amazon, love its looks but don't dig it out to wear as much as i should. I would really like a non- chronograph version of this with that moon phase complication.
Whilst it is a very intriguing offering to have a mechanical chrono moonphase at this price point there is definitely a big lack in finish for me which keeps me from falling in love with it. Otherwise it ticks many boxes. Nice video!
How much would you pay for a higher level of finishing?
It's finished infinitely better than the moonswatch
Got my 1963 from a company called HKED, they do a more "faithful" reissue to the original vintage and is also much better with QC. Their hands are also lightly different, more like sharp needles, rather than stamped out toothpicks haha
I just purchased a cream panda 63 from there. Can't wait to to receive it
@@eebroh I have the cream dial panda, you'll love it!! Congratulations!
Really nice editing on this video.
Thanks Richard 😊
Watched this…. Now waiting for mine in the mail to come🤣
I ordered one and it's on the way I ha the basic one 38mm because it's the closest to the Oreginal.
Great review Max! Your channel content is fantastic and you should be a 1 million subscriber channel!
Thanks for the support my guy 👍
Nice video!
I love it but I've had 4 or 5 different ST19 movement, from 1963's to Baltic chronos and the top pusher often has a double click "issue" which does not feel great, so I wouldn't buy one personally.
I have a seagull 1963 from aliexpress, lol watch hand fell off after a month but was able to get a local watch maker to fix it for 40. the swan neck regulator is more for show than actually functional as the adjustment screw is too short and screwed all the way down leaving no room for fine adjustment to slow down the watch (perhaps there is another way to regulate it before using the fine tuning screw? please let me know if anyone knows). there is some alignment issue when resetting the chronograph (it went to either 1 or 59 and the small subdial to 1 or 29), usually just run it one more time and reset it it'll align right. Overall the movement winding feel smooth, run consistently around +6s/day during normal daily wear; when dial down it is closer to +0 to +2 (may be that's how it was regulated in the factory) Overall fun watch to have, I personally like the 38mm as it is almost exactly like the vintage chronograph watch from the 50's
I want this. Will be checking the website
The swan neck was always there - but it used to be a bit of a pot luck whether you ended up with one or not.
This is quite a nice watch. It has been available for quite a while. I bought this same watch, branded Sugess, from Ali about four years ago for $US200. Still working very well. The only differences from the one reviewed here is the absence of the red star and text on the dial.
You're aware that the Seagull 1963 is available in all possible case sizes, dials etc.?? Not to mention so many different brands using the same ST1901 movement offering endless options, for all tastes...
There are many nice inexpensive watches. However if you want to buy a MoonSwatch, you are not looking for another brand, even if the Seagull is nice. So you don't skip the MoonSwatch, you possibly buy a Seagull or another brand if you like it, but when you want a watch such as the MoonSwatch, you don't skip it for something else.
To each their own
Buy whatever makes you happy, not what other people think is "cool"
I own a ton of weird Chinese watches because I enjoy wearing them, not because they have any reputation or status of any sorts lol
If people wanna buy a moonswatch because they personally like it, then they should buy a moonswatch, they look neat too
When the seagull would look like the moon swatch i would totally agree.
Can't see why a 38mm would feel too small on a 6.5 inch wrist. My wrist is 7.25 inch and it's looks great on a cheapo thick nubuck Bison strap from Amazon. I have a swan neck version made by Sugess and it's indistinguishable from the "official" version. I love the watch but one thing I do have an issue with is that I'm only getting about 25 hours out of a full wind. I bought it from a UK seller and had a replacement sent out but it wasn't much better. A bit of digging around suggests I'm not the only one with this anomaly.
max, great vid again!
i have two nieces graduating from college this summer, and i'd like to ignite their love and appreciation for mechanical watches. truth is, i've already began - we each have our own matching casio databanks, and one of them is in love with my tank.
i'm wondering if you have any recommendations for a 36mm (or smaller) mechanical watch?
also, i do have an st19 by way of the series II lorier gemini. it's basically my daily now. no problems. i love it. wish i had a spare for the day this one expires haha
Look into the Lorier falcon III 👍
I was laughing at all those Moonwatch people who bought a plastic watch. :)
But they also paid £260 for the pleasure!
😅
I had the 38mm 1963 with the sapphire crystal…and I pretty much moved it on because I found it to be too thick for the size and the 18mm lug to lug….
Yes my point exactly 💯
Prefer the older one.
Seagulls are always cool
That's a high score! And a (relatively) high price for a Chinese brand ... =)
I personally think you get more for your buck with microbrands and I've picked up many for under£200 all solid builds with great water resistance and quality you hasn't beat them for the money
I would be interested to know more about the moonphase complication. Is it the real deal 28 days etc. Anyone know?
Can you post the link for the watch
Need one....
I had one and the movement looks great at a glance, but cheap when up close, like a toy. Imo
Watch snobs can say what they want, the Swiss Venus 175 movement (now the modified and improved Chinese Tianjin (Seagull) ST19) is pretty similar to other iconic mechanical chronograph movements : Rolex 72B, Valjoux 727, Omega 321 or Patek Philippe CH 27. The fact that you can get watches with this movement under $200 is insane! Remember, the Paul Newman Daytona (6239) has a Rolex 72A / Valjoux 722 (17 jewels - 5 Hz / 18,000 bph - 40 hours power reserve) compared to the ST19 (21 jewels - 6 Hz / 21,600 bph - 42 hours power reserve ). Also you can't compare 2023 China to 1963 China. Chinese manufacturing quality is now excellent.
Hey mate, great video, I bought this watch because of it, just one question, where did you buy that brown leather strap for watch?
Great review. Any specific seller you'd recommend?
I went with seagull1963.com
Can it be serviced?
My experience was terrible - stopped running after 2 months and no watch smiths in my area would wana service it. So seagull is a no no for me
I dont hate the moonswatch. I wouldt buy it but for like 30 dollars it would be a great watch.
What's the model number for this?
Any thoughts on the sugess moon phase?
Thank you for this video and releasing me from my fixation on the moons-watch that honestly is just a result of being a watch nut and being indoctrinated by the #watchfam about how important having the moonswatch is. This seagull is way better AND avalable
Can you link a couple sellers in the comments, please?
38 acrylic dude
moon phase is 28 days or is the 31 days calendar gear?
There are 2 pushers. One for each 👍
@@WatchCrunchOfficial sorry, i mean: the moonphase dial has 28 or 31 clicks in rotation?
What about servicing? I heard it is really hard to service that movement and costs a lot too? Is it true?
This is definitely a gorgeous watch. if not because of that red star, i wouldve bought it.
There are other brands that make variations of the same watch with the same movement (without the red star) Sugess for example have a few without the red star!
technically it's a 1909 movement because of the extra complications
Hi, where did you get that leather strap?
Does the date require manual clicl everyday?
Where to get the 40mm Seagul 1963 (I am in Canada)?
Why you have no link to buy???? Where did you find??
Oh, the controversy *munches on old Lunar New Year cookies*