How quickly people grow to the point where they expect perfection for so little money. We live in a world where so much can be had for so little, $220.00 for a watch with this level of fit and finish is amazing. We put up with rotor wobble on an ETA 7750 and then gripe about a very well made inexpensive Japanese Movement that has rotor wobble or is not perfectly silent. I have more NH Seiko movements, in my collection, but this movement does not bother me at all, it is a work horse and is nice and thin. The accuracy for the price is acceptable. Thanks for your review.
Also agree and can personally recommend Cronos’ build quality and finish. I have the Submariner homage in black and green dials. For this Explorer homage though, I recently purchased the Baltany S4056. If price was a factor, then I would have opted for this Cronos.
I am new to watch collecting and I have to say. You have the best watch channel in my opinion. Clear and concise and I love that you put the watches on different straps to give the different looks. I mean honestly that's one of the 2 main things I look for...if it has a sapphire crystal and how it will look with the different straps. Great job and keep up the good work.
@@EscapeWheel Yeah your wrist rolls in the shade and sun are one of the reasons I always watch your reviews. You get a much better appreciation of the watch rather than just under artificial light. I know it's extra work for you but keep it up.
indeed. it's still good enough that i would recommend it. but it could have been so much better. maybe it was a thickness thing...not sure cronos could hit these case numbers with the NH38
@@EscapeWheel it would’ve been nice if they had used a no-date movement like the NH38, even the Miyota 90S5. I wish the crown was just a touch bigger, I measured it at 5.5mm while the Phylida has a 7mm which is easier to use. Thinness and size of the case is great, as is the dial. Love the applied logo!
I'm hanging for a Rolex 39mm Explorer to come up at my local 2nd hand watch dealer. I've just ordered one of these after watching the only *other* review on RUclips. This seems to be the closest physically to the original 39mm Explorer. And for 1/100thb of the price. Thanks for the review.
Agree with you about the mouvement. It's a weird choice imo, a lot of people prefer the NH35. But clearly not a deal breaker. Excellent review as always! Thanks Steve 👍
Bro. The most used and respectful chronograph movement that many high end manufacturers used as base movement valjoux 7750 has unidirectional winding and wobbles a lot for example breitling chronograph back in 2000-2010, Bell & Ross, IWC, etc. btw it will wobbles a lot when you shake it with quick move of the wrist
My Tisell has the M9015 which helps keep it thin, but has obnoxiously long male endlinks. And the much longer sliding clasp. This I would say is an upgrade for even less money thanks for the detailed review
Yeah, I'm aware of the tisell, but the bracelet always put me off...I've also seen more than a few comments about the bracelet not holding up well and even rusting around the connection points.
It’s crazy that Cronos can deliver such an awesome looking, spec rich timepiece for $165 but Seiko and Orient can’t even deliver a sapphire crystal on watches 2-3x the price. Cronos and San Martin are probably the best value props out there in the lower price category.
The Vario Vintage and the last NATO strap shown would be the way I'd go with it. It is really noticeable how well the bracelet's end links fit snug to the case. I'm not getting that on my Orient Mako and Kamasu.
Today I received this watch. It's just one word to describe it: STUNNING. It has everything I missed with Steinhart Adventure Classic. The contrast between the dial and markers. The flat crystal makes it easy to avoid reflections. I guess it's the best Rolex Explorer homage. At least when it comes to the design and feeling when you wear it. But I measured the accurasy with Watch accurasy meter app. While Steinhart shows +3s/d Cronos shows +24s/d. You cannot get everything. But the accurasy of the movement is possible to adjust even with this Cronos, right?
I received my Steinhart Ocean 39 Adventure Classic two days ago. I’m absolutely delighted and love it. I’m always willing to listen to suggestions for improvement though, so this is a genuine question (not a butt-hurt one!) - In what ways is the Cronos better please as I might get one?
@@lordcharfield4529 First of all: congrats to a great watch! One difference between the Cronos and Steinhart is that Cronos intentionally made it very similar to Rolex Explorer. At a meter distance it looks like the original. Steinhart have in several aspects intentionally avoided to design their watches to look exactly like the original. But you still can see where the inspiration comes from. I like this Cronos more because of the piano black dial and flat crystal. But if I had not found the Cronos I had not sold the Steinhart. If we talk about quality Steinhart is definitely higher class. And because of Steinhart's praxis to not make straight rip offs they have a dark grey matt dial and domed crystal instead of glossy black and flat. When I bought the Cronos I still had the Steinhart, so I could compare them side by side. You can do the same or just be fine with Steinhart. You can't go wrong with Steinhart.
I have a Tissel version, but same issue with the lug holes - easily solved by using curved spring bars, now pretty much all your leather straps will work :) Great review, and apologies for the rather belated comment!
Thanks for watching! I thought about curved lugs, but I have soooo many quick release springbars it makes little sense to either buy new straps or remove the quick release bars....especially when the bracelet is pretty dang comfortable already
Right, I had the AirKing, so pretty much the same thing. It's nice, don't get me wrong, but for an extra $50 this is kind of a no-brainer. Better finishing, nicer case, better Lume, nicer crown action, nicer bracelet overall.
Really good looking watch. The gloss black dial is so much nicer than the matt black used by San Martin. It really makes the dial pop. I have the excellent current model Addiesdive Explorer version, with the 39mm dial and the fantastic tool free adjustable bracelet (why aren't all bracelets made this way?). This has the NH38 and a black gloss dial, so the Cronos movement and awful clasp don't really make it an upgrade. Can't really understand why Cronos went for these movements. Seems an odd move for a company that makes such good quality watches, but then San Martin has done this for some of their models too.
@@EscapeWheel you moaned about the uni directional rotor on the 8 series....the 9 series also has the same rotor dude, literally makes the same amount of noise
@@EscapeWheel strongly disagree,the 9 series makes exactly the same amount of noise,I have watches with both,also?the 8 series is one of the most proven movements of all time,it's been around since the early 70's. In no.way,shape or form the nh series an upgrade.over the miyota,and the 8 series was used in the citizen ny00 series of dive watches that were famously used by the Italian marine military for 10 years. That's the kind of pedigree that no Seiko movement has ever been able to match!
@@deanwaller8283 that's fine. Just my experience. As for the reliability, yeah, the miyotas are no slouch as you e pointed out. I'd gladly take a 9000 series in any watch, but I have to think hard about a watch with the 8-series....just not my favorite one now...proven or not.
I was tempted by this in the last 11?11 sale, but I went with SM be ause it had female endlinks. But I have 2 other Cronos watches and I'm very happy with them.
yes. the Addiesdive is nice, but it's a bit of a chonker. the Cronos should slim that down a bit. also the cronos dial/hands/indices proportions are MUCH better than the addiesdive's
Do check out the Tisell Explorer Automatic 39mm watch mate. It's really similar but with a 90S5 movement n a Glydelock bracelet that just simply... Glides... 😁
I have a Steinhart Adventure Classic. Very high quality. But very domed chrystal makes reflections almost always present and the dial is matt dark black. A bit boring and nothing like Rolex explorer. This Cronos looks awesome, though. Flat crystal and deep black glossy dial it looks very identical to Rolex. I consider to order one.
@@Imboredas I like Cronos more because of the glossy piano black dial and the flat crystal. But no doubt: Steinhart is a very nice watch, and higher quality than Cronos so you may enjoy it!
@@patricj951 Thanks for sharing. I also do like the glossy dial on Cronos. I was sold on the quality of Steinhart and Selita movement, but might end up buying the cronos too if it goes into discount this November! Could I also get your opinion on the wearability of the two? Steinhart seems to be a bit thicker with flat lugs, which kinda worries me.
Great review, Steve. The Explorer 1 style is just so classic and versatile. One of my absolute favorites designs. My question would be......do you think that though the Cronos has a slightly better, overall build quality, that it might still be preferable to purchase the Pagani Design, "3, 6, 9 dial" variation instead, because it uses the NH35A movement??? I cannot say for sure, as I haven't handled the Cronos model in question, but it seems to me that the only real advantages of the Cronos, are that it has slightly better tolerances in terms of the bracelet, and much better overall loom application. If I remember correctly, I think you've had both models in your possession, and can therefore give an accurate assessment. Speaking for myself, I generally don't really care much about loom, but I do care about a well constructed bracelet. For reference, I would consider the tolerances of the RM001 bracelet to be ideal, as the amount of play isn't perfect, but in my opinion, good for the price. I really like the SN0105 on your wrist today, as well. Very classy with the paired leather strap. Best wishes....
I had the Airking, which was basically the same. very decent watch especially for the price. the thing I like about the cronos is: 1. the bracelet is a lot nicer. more comfortable than the RM001 you refrenced. great tolerances, just smooth on wrist. it feels great. 2. the clasp on the cronos is excellent. better finishing, better and easier easy-link, not as sharp, and just feels better put together when opening/closing. 3. obviously the Lume 4. the case. they are actually pretty similarly sized cases, but the cronos just looks and feels a lot better on wrist. it just kind of melts onto the wrist, Cronos does some magic here as my other 2 cronos watches (GMT and Datejust) do the same. they wear really comfortably. 5. dial and hands are just a notch better on the Cronos. i think the hands were a bit undersized on the Pagani (All 3) 6. proportions are just spot on for the cronos. minus the hour hand, it's a new perfect copy IMO. the pagani feels off just a bit in certain areas (hands, 369 numerals) overall, for like $80, the pagani is really good. but if you can spend double, I wouldn't let the movement hold you back.
See my comment above Tara and take a look at the Addiesdive Explorer as a possible alternative. The case is apparently made in the same factory as San Martin watches, so the quality is good. The NH 38 is a great movement, with no ghost position, and the bracelet is so easy to adjust. No tools needed at all and I sized mine in two minutes flat! You will probably want to replace the pressed clasp with a milled one though, but you can buy these cheaply from AliExpress and it's a very easy swap. Very comfortable on wrist and the lume lasts all night, much better that the PD version.
I've recently purchased the Baltany explorer with the brown dial after watching your review of it. Its beautiful and I'm really pleased with it. Just wondering what your thoughts are on them as a comparison? Which one do you consider to be the better watch. 😉👍
I think so. I've heard the tisell bracelet is kinda crap. Not as high quality steel and protruding endlinks are not very well executed. I like the movement in that one better, but otherwise this one should be the nicer watch.
Ok, I bought the SM full lume dial with the 8315 off your recommendation, love it. I also bought the Addiesdive version with the NH38. I am not a fan of the logo, but love everything else. Is this worth selling the Addiesdive and buying this? You have had experience with both. Love to hear your thoughts.
I'd say probably not. The Addie's is really nice. Equal lume and dial and case finishing. Only advantage of the Cronos would be the case thickness, bracelet is overall a little nicer and clasp is a lot nicer.
I was going to order this during 11/11, but the clasp and movement put me off. I'm obsessive about microadjustment, and change mine almost daily, so this would be a pain. I also take my mechanicals off and wear a smart watch when I exercise, so sometimes I don't wind the watch up enough with the rotor system during the day, especially with citizens and 2824s.
Probably the SN021 just because it's a more interesting watch with the different numerals and the domed crystal. But quality wise, they are very equal. But then there's the glossy dial on the Cronos which makes a great impression over the matte dial on the SN021. 🤔. 🤣🤣
@@EscapeWheel I have it in my Farer Erebus 2 watch and it is very accurate and spartan. +/- 3/day. I can't find information on the G101, but found plenty on the G100.
I can't do it sir this is the one watch that I need the actual Rolex Explorer 1 36mm. I'd feel wrong buying a homage of this watch, I have homage watches and love them but I can't do it with this one
Better proportions to the case and hands, much better Lume, dials are pretty close, though. This one is thinner, or at least wears and looks thinner. Bracelet feels better, and the clasp works better. About what you would expect from the price difference. Only advantage for the Pagani is the movement.
@@billwayne3924 seriously???who CARES??? it's not like it's whizzing away like a loudspeaker all day long!all mechanical watches, without exception,even Rolex,make a noise
@@Dundiscriminateleh sale is happening now. $5 off every $30 spent (max savings $15) plus stackable coupon (search for your country's codes, US is HBD20 ,For $20 off. Brings my total to $146+ tax.
Just out of curiosity, did you ask them if they could replace that clasp with their glide lock off of their submariner? It should definitely fit! BTW... The Octopus is in Indiana, so it should get here by Thursday or Friday!
Doing anything 24/7 for 3 days straight sounds exhausting.........wait a minute🤔...... Nice enough watch, but it's too much money with a Miyota powering it. ......and someone, Cronos or is it Citizen, is overcharging for the cal.8315 "upgrade"
Check the bracelet section. I'll say the same thing I said to another similar comment... It's hard to criticize a good watch...and the fact is, watches are getting really good, even cheaper ones.
@@EscapeWheel Thank you for replying and making this video showing this watch close up, outside in the sunlight, and with the different watch bands, which really helped in making my decision to buy this watch in both the black and blue color dials. 🙂👍🏻
I wish these Chinese makers would make an Explorer homage with a date window @ 4 o'clock, small and discrete. I personally never liked date only watches cause I think a date feature is useful and it's more interesting on the dial if done properly
How quickly people grow to the point where they expect perfection for so little money. We live in a world where so much can be had for so little, $220.00 for a watch with this level of fit and finish is amazing. We put up with rotor wobble on an ETA 7750 and then gripe about a very well made inexpensive Japanese Movement that has rotor wobble or is not perfectly silent. I have more NH Seiko movements, in my collection, but this movement does not bother me at all, it is a work horse and is nice and thin. The accuracy for the price is acceptable. Thanks for your review.
Well said my friend. I couldn’t agree more. I am a big fan of Cronos. They have the build and finish of San Martin but without that clunky logo.
Also agree and can personally recommend Cronos’ build quality and finish. I have the Submariner homage in black and green dials. For this Explorer homage though, I recently purchased the Baltany S4056. If price was a factor, then I would have opted for this Cronos.
I am new to watch collecting and I have to say. You have the best watch channel in my opinion. Clear and concise and I love that you put the watches on different straps to give the different looks. I mean honestly that's one of the 2 main things I look for...if it has a sapphire crystal and how it will look with the different straps. Great job and keep up the good work.
Wow, thank you, man 🙏
I appreciate the kind words.
Your wrist roll shots in the sun is the reason I bought the cronos datejust homage and I didn't regret it
hahaha. the DJ is an awesome watch as well. was wearing it today while shooting my Rdunae review, so keep an eye out for that wrist-check.
@@EscapeWheel Yeah your wrist rolls in the shade and sun are one of the reasons I always watch your reviews. You get a much better appreciation of the watch rather than just under artificial light. I know it's extra work for you but keep it up.
Got a 36mm on the way. Will wear with pride while I wait for “the call” from my AD. Great review!
Thanks, and good luck on the wait 😂
Got it for $110 including taxes!
Fits great on my 6.75" wrist
Now that they just released the new 36mm version, I hope you do a review on it!
I'm tempted by this one every sale, but end up getting something else. Agree on the movement. The NH38 would be killer.
indeed. it's still good enough that i would recommend it. but it could have been so much better. maybe it was a thickness thing...not sure cronos could hit these case numbers with the NH38
@@EscapeWheel it would’ve been nice if they had used a no-date movement like the NH38, even the Miyota 90S5. I wish the crown was just a touch bigger, I measured it at 5.5mm while the Phylida has a 7mm which is easier to use. Thinness and size of the case is great, as is the dial. Love the applied logo!
Amazing this thinness with a miyota 8000 series. Imagine if they put in a 9000.
Great review, macro shots, straps and movement observations: best in the biz, Steve!
@tim S - same here, I really hope they switch up the movement.
I really appreciate you putting the specks in the corner of the video while you are showing them as a reference if you miss a speck
Glad to hear it. Happy to listen to any other suggestions to improve my videos as well. 👊
Spec
Glossy dial makes it top choice. The San Martins with their matte dials just don't cut it.
It just looks so much nicer than my SM ranger. It's crazy.
I'm hanging for a Rolex 39mm Explorer to come up at my local 2nd hand watch dealer. I've just ordered one of these after watching the only *other* review on RUclips. This seems to be the closest physically to the original 39mm Explorer. And for 1/100thb of the price. Thanks for the review.
Thanks for watching! This will definitely be a good placeholder until you get your wrist on the Gen. Good luck with the wait 👍
Agree with you about the mouvement.
It's a weird choice imo, a lot of people prefer the NH35. But clearly not a deal breaker.
Excellent review as always! Thanks Steve 👍
Thanks, Johnathan. Not a deal breaker at all
I really love the movement's rotating vibes & sound. It's almost ASMR to me.
You aren't alone...lol
Bro. The most used and respectful chronograph movement that many high end manufacturers used as base movement valjoux 7750 has unidirectional winding and wobbles a lot for example breitling chronograph back in 2000-2010, Bell & Ross, IWC, etc. btw it will wobbles a lot when you shake it with quick move of the wrist
My Tisell has the M9015 which helps keep it thin, but has obnoxiously long male endlinks. And the much longer sliding clasp. This I would say is an upgrade for even less money thanks for the detailed review
Yeah, I'm aware of the tisell, but the bracelet always put me off...I've also seen more than a few comments about the bracelet not holding up well and even rusting around the connection points.
@@EscapeWheel Steve, Tisell now makes a 36mm version and the end link looks to be different. Would be great to see someone review it on YT…😊
It’s crazy that Cronos can deliver such an awesome looking, spec rich timepiece for $165 but Seiko and Orient can’t even deliver a sapphire crystal on watches 2-3x the price.
Cronos and San Martin are probably the best value props out there in the lower price category.
Hard to argue there
Esses são meus pensamentos!
The Vario Vintage and the last NATO strap shown would be the way I'd go with it. It is really noticeable how well the bracelet's end links fit snug to the case. I'm not getting that on my Orient Mako and Kamasu.
I have the 8315 version as well and it’s been one of my top 2 wears since received it a little over a month ago.
It's really good. Love the way it wears. 👍
do you notice the sound the rotor makes?
Today I received this watch. It's just one word to describe it: STUNNING.
It has everything I missed with Steinhart Adventure Classic. The contrast between the dial and markers.
The flat crystal makes it easy to avoid reflections. I guess it's the best Rolex Explorer homage. At least when it comes to the design and feeling when you wear it.
But I measured the accurasy with Watch accurasy meter app. While Steinhart shows +3s/d Cronos shows +24s/d.
You cannot get everything. But the accurasy of the movement is possible to adjust even with this Cronos, right?
Yes, absolutely. The Miyota 8 series is easily adjustable
I received my Steinhart Ocean 39 Adventure Classic two days ago. I’m absolutely delighted and love it. I’m always willing to listen to suggestions for improvement though, so this is a genuine question (not a butt-hurt one!) - In what ways is the Cronos better please as I might get one?
@@lordcharfield4529
First of all: congrats to a great watch!
One difference between the Cronos and Steinhart is that Cronos intentionally made it very similar to Rolex Explorer. At a meter distance it looks like the original. Steinhart have in several aspects intentionally avoided to design their watches to look exactly like the original. But you still can see where the inspiration comes from.
I like this Cronos more because of the piano black dial and flat crystal. But if I had not found the Cronos I had not sold the Steinhart.
If we talk about quality Steinhart is definitely higher class. And because of Steinhart's praxis to not make straight rip offs they have a dark grey matt dial and domed crystal instead of glossy black and flat.
When I bought the Cronos I still had the Steinhart, so I could compare them side by side. You can do the same or just be fine with Steinhart. You can't go wrong with Steinhart.
@@lordcharfield4529
I have a Tissel version, but same issue with the lug holes - easily solved by using curved spring bars, now pretty much all your leather straps will work :) Great review, and apologies for the rather belated comment!
Thanks for watching! I thought about curved lugs, but I have soooo many quick release springbars it makes little sense to either buy new straps or remove the quick release bars....especially when the bracelet is pretty dang comfortable already
Because of your video I purchased one.
Excellent Video!
I was wondering how this watch compares to the Pagani Design PD-1692 V2 'Explorer' and the 'Air-King' homage models.
Right, I had the AirKing, so pretty much the same thing. It's nice, don't get me wrong, but for an extra $50 this is kind of a no-brainer. Better finishing, nicer case, better Lume, nicer crown action, nicer bracelet overall.
🎼My watch don't tic-toc, it wobble wobbles🎶
The 8215 version does hack,I recieved mine last week,If you can get past the noisy rotor it's a really great watch😎👍
That's good to know, thanks for chiming in. A great every day watch...doubt it'll be leaving my collection anytime soon
@@EscapeWheel same here,I really like it,great video as usual man😎👍
@@twitchyjambo thank you, sir. 👊
This watch really deserves a "better" movement, other than that it looks like a real winner.
I think we can all agree on that.
Nope,the miyota is the better movement
Really good looking watch. The gloss black dial is so much nicer than the matt black used by San Martin. It really makes the dial pop. I have the excellent current model Addiesdive Explorer version, with the 39mm dial and the fantastic tool free adjustable bracelet (why aren't all bracelets made this way?). This has the NH38 and a black gloss dial, so the Cronos movement and awful clasp don't really make it an upgrade. Can't really understand why Cronos went for these movements. Seems an odd move for a company that makes such good quality watches, but then San Martin has done this for some of their models too.
An odd choice indeed. This watch deserves the 9000 series or the PT5000 or something.
@@EscapeWheel you moaned about the uni directional rotor on the 8 series....the 9 series also has the same rotor dude, literally makes the same amount of noise
@@deanwaller8283 in my experience, the 9000 series is WAY less noticeable. And I've had those mostly in thin dress watches.
@@EscapeWheel strongly disagree,the 9 series makes exactly the same amount of noise,I have watches with both,also?the 8 series is one of the most proven movements of all time,it's been around since the early 70's.
In no.way,shape or form the nh series an upgrade.over the miyota,and the 8 series was used in the citizen ny00 series of dive watches that were famously used by the Italian marine military for 10 years.
That's the kind of pedigree that no Seiko movement has ever been able to match!
@@deanwaller8283 that's fine. Just my experience.
As for the reliability, yeah, the miyotas are no slouch as you e pointed out. I'd gladly take a 9000 series in any watch, but I have to think hard about a watch with the 8-series....just not my favorite one now...proven or not.
I was tempted by this in the last 11?11 sale, but I went with SM be ause it had female endlinks. But I have 2 other Cronos watches and I'm very happy with them.
The SM will be very nice and you won't be disappointed
Thanks for the review! Do you think the new Cronos 36mm with the NH35 movement is better than the Addiesdive 2112 with the NH38 as a whole?
yes. the Addiesdive is nice, but it's a bit of a chonker. the Cronos should slim that down a bit. also the cronos dial/hands/indices proportions are MUCH better than the addiesdive's
@@EscapeWheel Nice! I think I'll get that then, thank you!
Do check out the Tisell Explorer Automatic 39mm watch mate. It's really similar but with a 90S5 movement n a Glydelock bracelet that just simply... Glides... 😁
I have a Steinhart Adventure Classic. Very high quality. But very domed chrystal makes reflections almost always present and the dial is matt dark black. A bit boring and nothing like Rolex explorer.
This Cronos looks awesome, though. Flat crystal and deep black glossy dial it looks very identical to Rolex.
I consider to order one.
If those are your heroes with the steinhart, you'll be pretty happy with this one 👍. Thanks for watching!
I just placed an order for this watch. It will be very interesting!
My steinhart is currently on the way, and just found this video haha. I’m a sucker for explorer 1 214270 design. Which one did you end up liking more?
@@Imboredas
I like Cronos more because of the glossy piano black dial and the flat crystal.
But no doubt: Steinhart is a very nice watch, and higher quality than Cronos so you may enjoy it!
@@patricj951 Thanks for sharing. I also do like the glossy dial on Cronos. I was sold on the quality of Steinhart and Selita movement, but might end up buying the cronos too if it goes into discount this November!
Could I also get your opinion on the wearability of the two? Steinhart seems to be a bit thicker with flat lugs, which kinda worries me.
Great review, Steve. The Explorer 1 style is just so classic and versatile. One of my absolute favorites designs. My question would be......do you think that though the Cronos has a slightly better, overall build quality, that it might still be preferable to purchase the Pagani Design, "3, 6, 9 dial" variation instead, because it uses the NH35A movement??? I cannot say for sure, as I haven't handled the Cronos model in question, but it seems to me that the only real advantages of the Cronos, are that it has slightly better tolerances in terms of the bracelet, and much better overall loom application. If I remember correctly, I think you've had both models in your possession, and can therefore give an accurate assessment. Speaking for myself, I generally don't really care much about loom, but I do care about a well constructed bracelet. For reference, I would consider the tolerances of the RM001 bracelet to be ideal, as the amount of play isn't perfect, but in my opinion, good for the price. I really like the SN0105 on your wrist today, as well. Very classy with the paired leather strap. Best wishes....
I had the Airking, which was basically the same. very decent watch especially for the price. the thing I like about the cronos is:
1. the bracelet is a lot nicer. more comfortable than the RM001 you refrenced. great tolerances, just smooth on wrist. it feels great.
2. the clasp on the cronos is excellent. better finishing, better and easier easy-link, not as sharp, and just feels better put together when opening/closing.
3. obviously the Lume
4. the case. they are actually pretty similarly sized cases, but the cronos just looks and feels a lot better on wrist. it just kind of melts onto the wrist, Cronos does some magic here as my other 2 cronos watches (GMT and Datejust) do the same. they wear really comfortably.
5. dial and hands are just a notch better on the Cronos. i think the hands were a bit undersized on the Pagani (All 3)
6. proportions are just spot on for the cronos. minus the hour hand, it's a new perfect copy IMO. the pagani feels off just a bit in certain areas (hands, 369 numerals)
overall, for like $80, the pagani is really good. but if you can spend double, I wouldn't let the movement hold you back.
@@EscapeWheel And that's exactly what I was wondering. Thanks for taking the time, Steve. 👍
See my comment above Tara and take a look at the Addiesdive Explorer as a possible alternative. The case is apparently made in the same factory as San Martin watches, so the quality is good. The NH 38 is a great movement, with no ghost position, and the bracelet is so easy to adjust. No tools needed at all and I sized mine in two minutes flat! You will probably want to replace the pressed clasp with a milled one though, but you can buy these cheaply from AliExpress and it's a very easy swap. Very comfortable on wrist and the lume lasts all night, much better that the PD version.
@@daveindevon5240 thank you for the recommendation. Best wishes
was going to order this, but that clasp is a deal breaker. Why didnt they use their QA clasp on this???
I've recently purchased the Baltany explorer with the brown dial after watching your review of it. Its beautiful and I'm really pleased with it.
Just wondering what your thoughts are on them as a comparison? Which one do you consider to be the better watch. 😉👍
Tough call, there are things about each that I prefer over the other...Baltany crystal, dial, and movement, Cronos case and bracelet.
Great review, this Explorer homage wasn’t even on my radar! I have been looking at the Tisell Explorer - would you recommend the Cronos over Tisell?
I think so. I've heard the tisell bracelet is kinda crap. Not as high quality steel and protruding endlinks are not very well executed. I like the movement in that one better, but otherwise this one should be the nicer watch.
Ok, I bought the SM full lume dial with the 8315 off your recommendation, love it. I also bought the Addiesdive version with the NH38. I am not a fan of the logo, but love everything else. Is this worth selling the Addiesdive and buying this? You have had experience with both. Love to hear your thoughts.
I'd say probably not. The Addie's is really nice. Equal lume and dial and case finishing.
Only advantage of the Cronos would be the case thickness, bracelet is overall a little nicer and clasp is a lot nicer.
when will you have a review on the black cronos 6019 36mm?
I have no plans to review it at the moment. Maybe once the 11.11 sale and I can get a good price on it.
I like the noise, it's a tiny machine, if you want silence buy a gadget with quartz.
Great looking watch
Thanks, and thanks for watching!
How much is the weight of the watch on rubber strap or nato?
this is a really nice watch
Thanks, and thanks for watching!
I was going to order this during 11/11, but the clasp and movement put me off. I'm obsessive about microadjustment, and change mine almost daily, so this would be a pain. I also take my mechanicals off and wear a smart watch when I exercise, so sometimes I don't wind the watch up enough with the rotor system during the day, especially with citizens and 2824s.
A great candidate for a glide-lock. Cronos sells a good one, as does seestern. I'm sure one of them would sell you one to put on there.
I would have preferred a pt5000 or a miyota 9000s.
Otherwise a nice watch
Agreed. I'd be happy to pay the price, too as it's grown to be one of my favorites....but that damn rotor whirl ruins it.
Hello! Thanks for the review.
Tell me which watch makes the best impression of the two: Cronos L6016 vs San Martin SN021g V2 ?
Probably the SN021 just because it's a more interesting watch with the different numerals and the domed crystal. But quality wise, they are very equal.
But then there's the glossy dial on the Cronos which makes a great impression over the matte dial on the SN021. 🤔. 🤣🤣
@@EscapeWheel "And "yes" and "no" will be the answer, if you ask the elf for advice" 👌😀
How about this watch with a La Joux-Perret G101 Sonage movement?
I don't even know what that is! Lol. Gotta do some research I guess.
@@EscapeWheel I have it in my Farer Erebus 2 watch and it is very accurate and spartan. +/- 3/day. I can't find information on the G101, but found plenty on the G100.
The hands seem to be more fitting for a 36-37mm watch. And I kinda wish they made this in 36-37...Oh well, we always want what you don't/can't have...
I wouldn't go that far. Minute and seconds are fine. But that hour hand is a tad small, guessing it's a generic Sub hour hand
I heard the 36mm bezel sits a little high compared to the original. Did you find that was the case?
Never handled the original, but I never had an issue with it's height on this model.
I heard the movement’s rotor in this watch (miyota 8215) makes quite some noise. Would you say it is loud and noticeable?
yes. that's the nature of the 8215 and 8315. i've grown to get used to the noise, but I would absolutely prefer the NH35 any day of the week.
its a nice made piece but the bezel is too thick
Wrist presence on this looks amazing
It's really perfect. They nailed the case and bracelet
Send me the link to buy
"link is down in the video description"
I can't do it sir this is the one watch that I need the actual Rolex Explorer 1 36mm. I'd feel wrong buying a homage of this watch, I have homage watches and love them but I can't do it with this one
Lol, I get that. But $8-9K? Yikes.
Steve how does this compare to pagani designs model?
Better proportions to the case and hands, much better Lume, dials are pretty close, though. This one is thinner, or at least wears and looks thinner. Bracelet feels better, and the clasp works better. About what you would expect from the price difference. Only advantage for the Pagani is the movement.
Very nice 👍
Would this be able to fit my 6 inch wrist?
It would be very close. Cronos just released a 36mm explorer wich would probably fit you a lot better.
Thats exactly the same case, bezel, handset etc as the pagani air king. They wear damn well, pagani use nh35.
I'd keep the miyota over the nh series any day,I've never had one that wasn't absolutely exceptional for accuracy
What about the noise?
@@billwayne3924 seriously???who CARES??? it's not like it's whizzing away like a loudspeaker all day long!all mechanical watches, without exception,even Rolex,make a noise
@@deanwaller8283 lol. Okay…Thanks.
Could you review the Cronos L6019, please?
Very tempted to buy on the sale, under $150
@@EscapeWheel when will the sale happen?
@@Dundiscriminateleh sale is happening now. $5 off every $30 spent (max savings $15) plus stackable coupon (search for your country's codes, US is HBD20 ,For $20 off. Brings my total to $146+ tax.
Just out of curiosity, did you ask them if they could replace that clasp with their glide lock off of their submariner? It should definitely fit! BTW... The Octopus is in Indiana, so it should get here by Thursday or Friday!
No, I didn't ask. But should definitely fit like you said.
And Yay! to the octopus!
I own both and did exactly this. Clasp fits! “Dark” blue dial, is more of a royal blue (think Indianapolis colts) and not a navy blue (NY Giants)
Cadisen c8213 ?
What about it? It's not as good as this one. For a more budget option look at the Pagani explorer. It's pretty nice for the price.
👍
16mm clasp?
Yes
@@EscapeWheel thank you.
i'm going to assume that the lume is terrible because you didn't show it. You should include it in these videos you know?
Check the time stamps bro. 12:45 in this video...lume shots are part of all my reviews 👍
Mannnnnnif they make a 36mm I might have to break my new no homage rule lol
They'd be dumb not to make one, honestly
@@EscapeWheel at that price? I'd HAVE to snatch one up. I don't think anybody on Ali makes the 36mm with the modern sized 369 indices.
@Escape Wheel watch Reviews I received the 36mm. This thing is awesome! I'm gonna feel bad, but I think I'll be selling my seiko dresskx
@@tirrelldaveport3671do you recommend the 36mm version?😁
Doing anything 24/7 for 3 days straight sounds exhausting.........wait a minute🤔......
Nice enough watch, but it's too much money with a Miyota powering it.
......and someone, Cronos or is it Citizen, is overcharging for the cal.8315 "upgrade"
D'oh 🤦♂️
rolex who
Lol
This is just a replica.
Is this a review or a sales pitch?
Check the bracelet section. I'll say the same thing I said to another similar comment... It's hard to criticize a good watch...and the fact is, watches are getting really good, even cheaper ones.
I also purchased this with my own money, so there's that as well
1030 gram wow
🤦🤦🤦
Do you know if the Barton Elite Silicone watch band with quick release spring bars will work on this watch?
Yes,it will 👍
@@EscapeWheel Thank you for replying and making this video showing this watch close up, outside in the sunlight, and with the different watch bands, which really helped in making my decision to buy this watch in both the black and blue color dials. 🙂👍🏻
@@Shadowman-1960 that's awesome, glad I could help! Enjoy them!
I wish these Chinese makers would make an Explorer homage with a date window @ 4 o'clock, small and discrete. I personally never liked date only watches cause I think a date feature is useful and it's more interesting on the dial if done properly