One HUGE correction. Twice in the video I refer to this as a traveler's GMT. It's not, it's a callers. I correctly talk about it around 8:12 , but I screwed up in other bits. I was in a rush to get this out before heading out of town and didn't even notice I did that.
I was going to call you out on this but I see you’ve caught it yourself. 👍 Great review of a lovely watch. I had been considering buying one for quite a while but really wanted a Traveller GMT, not a Caller one. I ordered the Jack Mason Strat-O-Timer when it was announced and I’m anxiously awaiting its arrival.
Maybe one minor correction: CW stopped offering discounts/coupons based on their latest announcement 😢😢😢 I did get the one-time 10% welcome discount though.
@@RelativeTime hi relative time. You mentioned that you switch out the bracelet for the leather, depending on if you want to be ready for adventure or want to go for a more dressy look. Can I ask, which is the more dressy look? The bracelet? Thank you.
CW in my opinion is one of the best value for money brand out there. I own one for years now and in terms of quality and features it offers a lot and can be compared with many more priced watches. Great choice Shane. This GMT looks great.
Thank you for commenting on the male end-links. CWard like to suggest that they've perfected the bracelet, but switching to female end-links while preserving the quick-release functionality would be an improvement aesthetically and ergonomically.
I like how the twin flags is an applied logo now, rather than printed. The printed logo was the one thing that put me off. Now that it's applied, it looks so much better. It seems crazy, but these little things really mean a lot to me.
Around the beginning of this year(2024), I decided to pull the trigger on a CW watch and I'm glad I did. Two things stood out to me--one was the quality for the price(puts Rolex to shame for their price) and the second was the finish. CW's finish is second to none! Sure,micro scratches will show up,but the finish is just superb! I may pay a little more on the secondary market than I normally do, but it's worth it! Btw,my 1st CW is a C60 Atoll LE!
I own this watch, having ogled it for months last year and finally pulling the trigger once I got to see it in person over the summer. It is, in my opinion, unquestionably better-looking than the Explorer II, especially once I saw how unwieldy that Rolex looks in person. While the Explorer wins when it comes to overall quality of materials and movement, the CW is a better size and its design elements come out ahead in both style and proportion. The date position is better, the chisel-edged indices and added (but still subtle) orange suit the dial better, and most of all the steel bezel on the CW is a huge improvement. The Rolex bezel is too wide, and its numbers are too bulky. It distracts from the dial, shrinking it down and making it look like an afterthought. Add to that the size of the Explorer II (2mm wider than a Daytona, FYI) and the oversized bezel ends up making the front of the watch look like a pie tin. The CW, on the other hand, slims down both the bezel and its numbers, making them secondary to that aforementioned terrific dial. I'm not a Rolex hater. They make fantastic watches (the Explorer II itself is quite nice!,) but Christopher Ward took inspiration from their design and improved upon it in almost every way. Also... it's 10% of the price, but that's a whole other thing.
I know because of the colour way and steel numbered bezel many think Explorer II but actually (other than colour) this is much closer to some Grand Seiko GMT models. For what a watch is and aesthetics there really is only so many options in design that many are going to have similar attributes, and the C63 has many of the best elements. The movement in the Rolex is better but not $10,000 (in Canada) better. I think only the power reserve and resistance to magnetism is really the gain with the Rolex, and true versus office GMT is a matter of preference (I prefer a quick change date). Overall the 330-2 is a great modern movement. I own this watch as well (with my preferred twin flags logo)and have a difficult time wearing other watches in my collection, some costing well over $10k.
I know exactly what you mean by the “homage” factor. I have a Squale GMT that is a nice watch & clearly a homage to Rolex. It doesn’t have the Mercedes hands, but I do wish it were a bit more of an original design. I feel a bit self-conscious wearing it!
I think it is important to clarify something here. Rolex did not create the first GMT watch. Glycine did so technically, Rolex paid homage to Glycine as it did to Blancpain with the Submariner.
I like how you addressed the elephant in the room off the bat and avoided the word "homage", when in fact this is the perfect homage, it takes its inspiration from Rolex here and clear to see, but with out being a 1:1 copy with a logo change, they have to be saluted for this. Great review
Up until two months ago, I was pretty well set for GMTs with 2 Timex, 2 Citizen, a Seiko, 5 Glycines and an Orient Star. Then I saw the Zelos Spearfish GMT and decided to purchase one at the launch price. I missed the Aventurine, but got a Frost for $849, my most expensive (and favorite) watch to date. Only a few days after receiving my Zelos, Marc lowered the price on his Islander Republic GMTs to $695, which also use the SW330-2 movement. I purchased one and am very happy with the Islander, but it shows its price difference from the Zelos with a 120-click (instead of a proper 48-click) bezel, male non-quick release end links and a conventional clasp vs. the Zelos’ quick adjust clasp. The Christopher Ward seems nice, but I prefer my Zelos. As of now, there are still some left at $999.
I have a white C63 three hander, and a black C65 Dune three hander. Either would be the ideal everyday watch, but with both I have options. I think you nailed it with your description of CW, they make well executed watches at affordable prices. They do make some more out there designs, like the C60 concept, or Bel Canto, but their bread and butter is the C60 and C63 line.
You can no longer call CW a micro brand with the watches they produce today. Personally I love the new dune, both the sand colour and the bronze case one Great review as always Shane 👍
I bought the exact same watch about 10 months ago and LOVE IT! I got the Black White tide ocean material strap also but quickly switched it to a tan leather strap. I also have a black leather strap w/ orange stitching for it. The CW strap found a new home on my Bulova Lunar Pilot. I see why watch might be considered a homage to the Rolex but I like the dial on the CW MUCH better. CW does promotions often and I got mine for less than $900 before tax.
Really great review of a very nice watch. Obviously, you have patiently spent a lot of time with this watch. Some of my favorite likes on this are being rid of the Mercedes hands and the excess text on the dial. I would take this any day over the Rolex. Love that white dial. This review was worth the wait!
I picked this up in the distressed green dial last year. I got it on the bracelet but added in a camel coloured strap but when it went on that strap it hasn't come off! If I could only wear one watch now, this would probably be it. You hit on the key point for me - the execution is first rate. Everything is considered and has had attention. It punches way above it's price point.
It is very nice. I have come to really like Christopher Ward ever since they stopped putting Christopher Ward across the dial on the newer watches and just had what I think is a very cool logo. And I bought one ! I suppose we all have different tastes! Excellent review Shane!
Great review and photography and a beautiful watch 👍. I have to agree, I would take that over the Rolex, and it is the best type of homage, inspired by but not copying.
I have this, but with the logo in place of the name on the dial, the updated one. Small change, but big difference. Loved them when first released, but couldn't get past that name in that non-descript font - reminded me of something you'd buy in Debenhams (mid-level UK department store). As soon as they changed to the logo, boom!, I was sold. Really like it, gets lots of wear, and is an absolute strap-monster.😀
I'm the exact opposite :P I have 6 CW watches and I have not been able to bring myself to buy one since they removed the name and put the hashtags on the dial. Luckily each of us has a different opinion :D
Great evaluation of this watch. Bang for your buck CW offer some good watches, much like Steinhart. The still images showing the watch with different straps is a fantastic way to see it in different contexts. New fan from Sydney, Australia.
I have the green fume dial version, and love it. Personally, I think it looks the best, but just as important, it looks less like the explorer II. It gets more wrist time than my Rolex, Tudor, or TAG. It looks good on the green and orange fabric strap and the brown leather strap, but looks best on the bracelet and black rubber hybrid strap. Great video. 😀
I have this watch and have seen you mention it before and was hoping you would get around to reviewing it. Great review; thanks! I love this watch and the clean look of the white dial, but despite your comment that the well executed polished hands stand out well against the dial, I'd like to warn your over 40 fans that in some lights and without my reading glasses, it takes more than a glance to tell the time. If I had it do over I think I'd go for the black dial. Back when I bought it CW was giving out $250 off coupons. But the notification just before the expected delivery that unless I paid the import fee (I think it was $125) I would not be receiving my watch was an unpleasant surprise. I agree the bracelet is great. Much superior to (and more expensive than) Vaer's quick release braclet.
Agree with the comment about the hand design/colour. Omega have a white dial Aqua Terra and the hands are much clearer as they have a blackened colouring.
Way better looking than the Rolex for the reasons you pointed out, Shane. Also no hideous cyclops blobby thing at 3 O'clock. The C63 is dial has a more refined, balanced look.
More beautiful than an Explorer 2 in my opinion. CW case design gives me the best fit out of all brands. And with everything made in China (except the movement) makes it perfect quality for the money.
I own 6 CW watches now. I think like Shane said and I'm going to paraphrase here, "they are not super flashy. They are very well thought out and well built watches with lots of thought and effort put into making them right." The problem on youtube is if it is not flashy then it does not get views :(
Nice review. I own this watch as well as a standard white Sealander..As much as I like the GMT the standard gets a lot more wrist time. By the way what is that blue strap? It's beautiful.
I never found a use for the GMT function and it bothered me it just being there unused. I have the white three hander and I love it as well. It is a strap monster.
Why waste money on a Rolex when you can pay good money and far less cost , on a Christopher Ward. Regarding the logo, CW were advised by their lawyers not to use the logo it has now due to legal reasons and to protect themselves from the Swatch Group (Tissot have a similar design and CW were protecting themselves from legal prosecution). Personally I hate the term homage is it implies that the design lacks imagination, but if we are going to use it, then Rolex are paying homage to Glycine as they were the first company to create a GMT watch. Blancpain created the Dive watch we are all familiar with today, but guess what, Rolex takes all the credit. Seems like Rolex is paying homage to everyone else.
Buying a Rolex means you dont pay MSRP from a AD, you research your best options and you take time to make a purchase-decision. I own a Rolex 16710 GMT-II, coke dial from 2005. At the time that watch was $6k from a AD. I got mine for 25% off from a gray market dealer. The watch itself is iconic in design and the color red and black is very unique. The 3185 movement is solid, has only been serviced 13 yrs after i purchased it because the crown broke and I couldn’t wind the watch. I been offered well over $10k for the watch, but i wont sell it. Definitely an investment when you buy the right watch and you do your homework.
I actually like CW name on the watch than the new flag like logo. I am looking for a CW c63 but i would rather fo used than new. Its hard to find a white bezel watch that looks as good as this one
Why are you such haters of Rolex, yet they are always mentioned and compared with junk like CW. If you hate Rolex, why do you buy cheap copies of them?? AND I find it highly suspicious that ALL the comments are so over-the-top positive. Come on: It's a watch that looks cheap, is not in any way original and has a laughable name.
Agree. Although I can't see that happening anytime soon. The only real option for that is the new Miyota 9075, and they would lose that "Swiss-made" moniker if they used that.
I love this watch, it's gorgeous and very well made and I wanted to purchase it and just before ordering it, I found out that I can't use the GMT function of this watch properly because I live in a timezone with half hour increment (+3:30 gmt) so there is no way that I can set the GMT time correctly. But I ordered a watch from their new 36mm C63 series.
I love (the look of) CW watches. This one is great but I am looking at a three hander. Either the C63 Sealander 39mm or the Trident Pro 300 40mm - either in black. I am currently leaning towards the Sealander as I think it just nudges the Trident pro as more of an everyday - go anywhere - do anything watch. Plus I own a number of diver style watches already. Thanks for the review Shane.
I own both a C65 three hander and a C60. Both watches are fantastic and you would not go wrong with either. However the Sealander is a bit more versatile in more situations.
I know many people love this size, but I really wish it was available in 41mm. I have the C60 in 42mm and it is a great size for a diver. For me personally, 39mm just feels a hair too small.
Hi, I really enjoyed the review. I recently discovered the brand, Oak & Oscar, that has the white-dial Humboldt GMT, which also appears to be a homage to the Rolex. It also looks a beautiful watch. My knowledge of watches is slowly increasing with my budding obsession so I'd be interested in how you would you compare the Humboldt with Sealander? Thank you.
Excellent review. I have been on the fence about this watch since it came out. This review may push me over😮 or not. Aggghhht. So many watches, so little time. (Pun?)
my favorite GMT at the moment is the Martac 44 Large. I bought it new from County Comm. It leans heavy on the military side, but I didn't buy it for the ooooo's and ahhhh's.
Almost everything on the market is a homage of some sort or another. Even Rolex borrowed inspiration from others when designing their "signature looks" . What I really appreciate about CW is that in many cases they will actually tell you what their inspirations for the watch were. I have a C65 Dartmouth and on the back of the case it is engraved with the model number of the Omega Seamaster it is inspired by.
@@matthewtaylor6013 I have 4 CWs. Love the modern design of the Sealander and other similar models, but wish they'd do something a little different now.
@@davidlloydjones752 The Dune line and the Aquitaine Line are both a little more traditional as well the military line has some interesting pieces. They have announced an update to their in house movement that will be rolling out soon so I am excited to see where they take that as they have made some interesting and more original designs with their SH21 in the past!
As homages go, this is beautiful. I’d say that it’s a combination of the explorer and the grand Seiko of a few years ago. I’m lusting after the GMT Anthropocene, I absolutely love it.
I just traded the white dial C63 Sealander. It was a nice watch but didn’t get enough wrist time. Mine left me kind of flat on the design, just didn’t really connect with it. It’s a very nice watch, just wasn’t for me.
It's possible, although that might not include the crystal or the case back. Every company is different, some include that for total thickness, some don't and just give you "case" thickness.
Let's say this is a great watch is you really want that polar explorer 2 look without spending the very high price tag of the actual watch and get as close as possible look-wise with enough originally, if not subtle differences, in a number of details. CW's light Catcher case is interesting and good looking enough in itself.. let alone a bracelet and clasp system that's very well executed... All be it sometimes I wish they could shorten the clasp length just a bit as it sometimes seems comically as long, if not longer, than the case length itself.
They lengthened the clasp recently to allow my micro adjustment. From listening to interviews with the CW team, it looks like they are in the process of bringing it back down in size. Public feedback seems to be that while more micro adjustment is nice, people do not want it at the expense of a smaller clasp. I would keep an eye out for an updated clasp sometime soon.
@@matthewtaylor6013 the same clasp is basically used across all their modes that have such a bracelet and clasp. It works on the larger dive watches that are 42mm.. even when I had the 40mm c60 it seemed at it's limit, forget about the smaller case sizes without it feeling a bit overwhelming for the scale of the particular watches. I welcome a downsize to something that seems a little unnecessarily long. One way to make it appear smaller is to reduce the outside, but, it will leave the ratcheting extension exposed which is what I dont like... I think Nodus recently introduced something like that and I don't like to see the exposed extension. Will see how they can keep it basically as it is while reducing it a bit.
@@RelativeTime I saw that there was a white dial on discount the previous days on a strap. I was also tempted but ended up thinking that it is the green dial I am really into and will wait for an opportunity for it.
@@Sakellkon I own both a white C63 Sealander and a black C60 Trident. Both are lovely watches but for some reason the light just plays nicer with the hands and indices on the white dial. I am not sure how the green dial would compare. I also have a C65 Super Compressor with the sand dial and the light play on those indices is amazing so it would be interesting to see the green!
My ideal GMT is a caller GMT as that just functions for myself better. I'm considering a nicer GMT than the Corgeut I bought to see if I'd like the style of a Black Bay GMT when I was early in my watch collecting journey. I just know I want to get a German or Swiss watch when I reach the RUclips Partner Program. As of right now the Laco Aachen 39mm and the Steinhart Ocean One GMT 39mm Batman have my attention, along with a 42mm Hamilton Air Zermatt model.
This was on my list just before Xmas , I prefer the newer logo instead of the name ...... In the end I ended up buying a new PRX 80 and a like 'new' RZE GMT , both for the same money it would have cost for the CW , I do want to pick up a CW at some point though .............. P.S It's my understanding CW have stopped doing there discount codes :(
@@RelativeTime Yeah the “loupe” code that they used to do every so often has been stopped, I read on the FB group CW think it “cheapens” the brand so think only time you’ll get a discount is in there clearance sales ……. As for the RZE that’s a whole story on it’s own 😂😂😂 needless to say Travis at RZE was great and accepted a warranty return when he didn’t have to ( movement stopped working and couldn’t be fixed so they sent me a brand new one) and it’s been sitting in customs for some time and won’t get released until we prove proof of purchase 😂😂 I bought it from eBay but DHL won’t accept that so no idea if I’ll get it back anytime soon
@@RelativeTime There was an interview with Mike France (CW CEO) and he was talking about it always being the eventual plan to end the discount codes. @MyAlan999 is also right that there was discussion about it being perceived as lessening the value of the brand. That being said the new Clearance section of the website seems to be the place that Nearly New and overstock are appearing fairly regularly. It showed up after the January sale and has been there since with multiple uploads of stock.
Well, I mentioned that there are the new 9075 gmts and are around $1000. Which most are, the Traska is notable as it comes in a bit under. Although I wasn't necessarily trying to point out any specific competition, just showing off footage that I have of examples. As for the Traska, looks good but I haven't seen it in person.
@@RelativeTime thank you for the reply I would love to see you review the Traska GMT - I only mentioned the watch because I recently bought one and I am loving it. Thank you again
No it's a callers GMT. Sorry for the confusion, I do talk about it correctly at 8:10, but I screwed up twice in other parts. I was in a rush trying to get this out before heading out of town on vacation, and didn't even notice I did that.
@@RelativeTime i finally made it to the end and saw. its a shame most the traveler ones are so huge. i wish some brands would just make a smaller one with a jumping hour hand
@@RelativeTime I have a 6.5in wrist. I love the Longines Zulu time. I wish i could come close to pulling of that watch. Just trying to find a GMT that has a sport/tool watch look that isn’t pushing 50mm lug to lug and 44mm case diameter. make me look like a kid wearing my dads watch. I think it comes down to some watches that have that new miyota movement in it. The Jack Mason has just the look i want. maybe i will wait for the colors to come back in stock.
The "H" is not silent in the British or UK pronunciation. The US follows the French in leaving the "H" silent. Which one is more correct depends on where you are.
I think both ways are technically proper, I just can bring myself to say Hom-Age... it just sounds strange to me. Like its some strange version of porridge.
@@matthewtaylor6013 It is interesting that _both_ sides wonder why so many letters are not pronounced by the other side. For example herb/'erb, homage/'omage, soLder/sodder, Birming'am/Birmingham, ca'/car, and etc. The odd thing is that the US pronunciations are often closer to the original donor languages than the UK versions. For example homage/'omage, oreGANo/oREGano, and herb/'erb. BUT there are times when the UK is closer to the donor, such as the borrowed word niche, pronounced as neesh/nitch.
Calling this a homage because it is white and has an orange GMT hand is a little far fetched. It's based on their own light catcher design cases. It has baton indices, very different from the Rolex circular and triangular indices, and finally the CW signature handset which I love.
Who gives a crap about the CW logo. It’s never bothered me. Some people would call it a game changer, but if such a small detail would dissuade someone from buying a watch from this company, this person probably didn’t really want one of their watches in the first place.
It's a true homage of the Rolex Explorer II. Only an uneducated clown would call it a copy. There's so much different about the CW to the Rolex piece that I could fill pages.
I struggle with Christopher Ward, you have that logo, they have changed it to a black flags combo on the current one and next year it will be an applied version or something completely different. Their watches look dated so quickly. I think the bel canto is the first watch they have made with carefully applied branding, ie none on the dial. I think there are too many GMT’s available now, it used to be a selling point but now they are everywhere I don’t think they are particularly special and they aren’t really useful if I’m honest. For a daily watch I would prefer a time and date only . That said I love my black bay pro just because it looks gorgeous to me and their are a few other GMT’s that just look amazing. I’m really not sure why their are so many good looking GMT’s. The Maen gmt they released recently is a stunner.
I don’t think it flies too close to the “replica” state. It’s clearly pulling off the same vibe but doesn’t trigger any alarms for me anyway. You and others in your same “cheap and cheerful” watch lane have referenced build quality “close to” or “similar to” or even “just as good as” high end luxury brand quality on occasion. There is no evidence you guys have any clue what that means. I think you should do a vid where you ACTUALLY review a luxury watch. Let us see that you have actually held one the next time you say what you say.
I don't believe I said any of that. I think the closest I came was saying "CW gives you a glimpse of what to expect at higher price tiers". Which simply means it has a quality better then what I've seen at this price range. Potentially giving you glimpses of what you might expect as you go upwards. That and "the only people who don't like cw are luxury fans who don't believe it's as good as it is". Which you just proved. Look, I know why you made this comment. As so many other videos tend to go down that route. Yet, since I don't have a ton of experience, I purposely avoided it. I don't mind being called out if I say something. But at least make sure I say it, first.
@@RelativeTime not sure why you are getting your hackles up. A) I like CW so I don’t think I’ve proven anything. B) I wasn’t calling you out. I believe what you are saying. In fact since I can say for certain that what you’ve said is true. (You seemingly can’t ). C) if you are going to compare the properties of one object to another (by telling folks it gives them a glimpse of what to expect from higher end tiers- which I agree with you) shouldn’t you demonstrate some understanding of that standard? AlI I was suggesting is a show where you actually review a piece from those tiers so people can see what you are talking about. I wasn’t trying to be a jerk (although my syntax could have been softer) I was suggesting a cool show that would establish a baseline of understanding when you say things like “a glimpse of what higher tiers can offer”. The CW cost approx 1/10 of a Rolex GMT. (For example) Your inference is you get far more than 1/10 the value. Absolutely true. I wasn’t trying to start a war. If so many videos go this route, why not follow the thread? Look, I watch a few videos about watches. I’m certainly not an expert (what’s lower than a novice?) in your content creator space. If it’s a dumb idea say so but I’m certainly not proving your point about dickheads who just like expensive watches because they are expensive. I’m a fan of cool watches. Some of them are pretty expensive. Some aren’t.
@@bobbailey6398 Well your initial comment was harsher, or at least my interpretation of it. But since it evidently wasn't intended that way, lets back up and start over. Now in theory having a video directly comparing a CW to a luxury watch is a great idea. Yet there are some logistic issues shall we say, that make it problematic. Although first off this also depends on what you define as a luxury watch. Like when I was saying glimpses of higher price tiers, I was more talking about the $2k, $3k price points (high-end), not necessarily the 10k luxury areas. If you talking about comparing it to a higher-end watch, that's potentially doable. Even if you are just comparing it to other watches at the 1k price point, I got plenty of experience. And with that, I can tell you this is hands down the best-executed watch I've seen at that level. It's when you talk Rolex level that things get tricky. For those of us not in the luxury game, it's not easy to find someone who will lend you a 10k watch, and most channels don't make near enough to justify buying one for a video. Or at least I know I don't. Beyond that though, I don't think having experience with one luxury watch would be good enough for that type of video. For that, I think you would want someone who not only has an explorer ii, but also has plenty of experience with other luxury watches. Someone who really knows what they are talking about. The trick with that is that most people I've seen in the luxury game don't have any interest in CW. In fact, they are typically the segment that dislikes them. In my opinion for luxury fans, it's more about what a watch represents, than what it is. So it's no longer about value (or reality in some cases). For them, CW doesn't hold any interest. So I don't see the likely hood of those channels doing a video like that, or if they do having it fair and balanced. I still remember a video Archie foaming at the mouth about CW. I don't even remember if there was a real reason why, or if he was just on some rant.
I didn’t mean to be critical. I was offering a suggestion. That I thought was helpful. It might be a terrible idea. I wouldn’t use Archie as a standard for other watch enthusiasts! Lol The natural comparison would be to Rolex in this case but I wasn’t suggesting a head to head comparison. I was suggesting doing a show on a modern (not a 30 year old one) sub and/or gmt. This way when you in future videos say something along the lines of a glimpse into or reminiscent of or what ever we know that you have a defendable perspective. We don’t have to agree with you but we could trust youR judgement (otherwise why are we following the channel). It’s like you going on vacation in SAN Antonio and saying it gave you a glimpse of living in Sausalito. But you have never been to Sausalito. It just seemed odd. If you are ever in Sausalito I’ll be happy to lend you mine. And for the record (again) I think CW is good value for money. Beyond that price point things CAN get better but it’s a rapidly diminishing return
I didn’t mean to be critical. I was offering a suggestion. That I thought was helpful. It might be a terrible idea. I wouldn’t use Archie as a standard for other watch enthusiasts! Lol The natural comparison would be to Rolex in this case but I wasn’t suggesting a head to head comparison. I was suggesting doing a show on a modern (not a 30 year old one) sub and/or gmt. This way when you in future videos say something along the lines of a glimpse into or reminiscent of or what ever we know that you have a defendable perspective. We don’t have to agree with you but we could trust youR judgement (otherwise why are we following the channel). It’s like you going on vacation in SAN Antonio and saying it gave you a glimpse of living in Sausalito. But you have never been to Sausalito. It just seemed odd. If you are ever in Sausalito I’ll be happy to lend you mine. And for the record (again) I think CW is good value for money. Beyond that price point things CAN get better but it’s a rapidly diminishing return
I love the watch is that Christopher Ward has to offer. If they had made the GMT hand and text red instead of orange, we wouldn’t be having the homage conversation… Like the logo fine… But Christopher Ward in place of the logo is very offputting IMO
One HUGE correction. Twice in the video I refer to this as a traveler's GMT. It's not, it's a callers. I correctly talk about it around 8:12 , but I screwed up in other bits. I was in a rush to get this out before heading out of town and didn't even notice I did that.
I was going to call you out on this but I see you’ve caught it yourself. 👍 Great review of a lovely watch. I had been considering buying one for quite a while but really wanted a Traveller GMT, not a Caller one. I ordered the Jack Mason Strat-O-Timer when it was announced and I’m anxiously awaiting its arrival.
@@rickhoevenaars7833 Yeah, I'm hoping Jack Mason starts shipping soon. Next time I talk to them I'll have to ask them how production is going.
Maybe one minor correction: CW stopped offering discounts/coupons based on their latest announcement 😢😢😢 I did get the one-time 10% welcome discount though.
@@viriya24 Can you point me to that announcement?
@@RelativeTime hi relative time. You mentioned that you switch out the bracelet for the leather, depending on if you want to be ready for adventure or want to go for a more dressy look. Can I ask, which is the more dressy look? The bracelet? Thank you.
CW in my opinion is one of the best value for money brand out there. I own one for years now and in terms of quality and features it offers a lot and can be compared with many more priced watches. Great choice Shane. This GMT looks great.
Thank you for commenting on the male end-links. CWard like to suggest that they've perfected the bracelet, but switching to female end-links while preserving the quick-release functionality would be an improvement aesthetically and ergonomically.
I like how the twin flags is an applied logo now, rather than printed. The printed logo was the one thing that put me off. Now that it's applied, it looks so much better. It seems crazy, but these little things really mean a lot to me.
Around the beginning of this year(2024), I decided to pull the trigger on a CW watch and I'm glad I did. Two things stood out to me--one was the quality for the price(puts Rolex to shame for their price) and the second was the finish. CW's finish is second to none! Sure,micro scratches will show up,but the finish is just superb! I may pay a little more on the secondary market than I normally do, but it's worth it!
Btw,my 1st CW is a C60 Atoll LE!
I own this watch, having ogled it for months last year and finally pulling the trigger once I got to see it in person over the summer. It is, in my opinion, unquestionably better-looking than the Explorer II, especially once I saw how unwieldy that Rolex looks in person. While the Explorer wins when it comes to overall quality of materials and movement, the CW is a better size and its design elements come out ahead in both style and proportion. The date position is better, the chisel-edged indices and added (but still subtle) orange suit the dial better, and most of all the steel bezel on the CW is a huge improvement. The Rolex bezel is too wide, and its numbers are too bulky. It distracts from the dial, shrinking it down and making it look like an afterthought. Add to that the size of the Explorer II (2mm wider than a Daytona, FYI) and the oversized bezel ends up making the front of the watch look like a pie tin. The CW, on the other hand, slims down both the bezel and its numbers, making them secondary to that aforementioned terrific dial.
I'm not a Rolex hater. They make fantastic watches (the Explorer II itself is quite nice!,) but Christopher Ward took inspiration from their design and improved upon it in almost every way. Also... it's 10% of the price, but that's a whole other thing.
I know because of the colour way and steel numbered bezel many think Explorer II but actually (other than colour) this is much closer to some Grand Seiko GMT models. For what a watch is and aesthetics there really is only so many options in design that many are going to have similar attributes, and the C63 has many of the best elements. The movement in the Rolex is better but not $10,000 (in Canada) better. I think only the power reserve and resistance to magnetism is really the gain with the Rolex, and true versus office GMT is a matter of preference (I prefer a quick change date). Overall the 330-2 is a great modern movement. I own this watch as well (with my preferred twin flags logo)and have a difficult time wearing other watches in my collection, some costing well over $10k.
The color setting, especially the typical orange hand is the only thing really homaging R*lex in my opinion. Beautiful CW
I know exactly what you mean by the “homage” factor. I have a Squale GMT that is a nice watch & clearly a homage to Rolex. It doesn’t have the Mercedes hands, but I do wish it were a bit more of an original design. I feel a bit self-conscious wearing it!
I think it is important to clarify something here. Rolex did not create the first GMT watch. Glycine did so technically, Rolex paid homage to Glycine as it did to Blancpain with the Submariner.
Beautiful watch. On the strap, with the large dial and slender bezel, it wears larger than a 39.
IMO, the CW looks better.
Good call(er) Shane
I've had this exact watch on bracelet for over a year. It's gotten a lot of wrist time and I really love it. Great review as always. Thanks.
I have this one, and I very much like it.
The lume is very good..the bracelet is very cool.
I like how you addressed the elephant in the room off the bat and avoided the word "homage", when in fact this is the perfect homage, it takes its inspiration from Rolex here and clear to see, but with out being a 1:1 copy with a logo change, they have to be saluted for this. Great review
Up until two months ago, I was pretty well set for GMTs with 2 Timex, 2 Citizen, a Seiko, 5 Glycines and an Orient Star. Then I saw the Zelos Spearfish GMT and decided to purchase one at the launch price. I missed the Aventurine, but got a Frost for $849, my most expensive (and favorite) watch to date. Only a few days after receiving my Zelos, Marc lowered the price on his Islander Republic GMTs to $695, which also use the SW330-2 movement. I purchased one and am very happy with the Islander, but it shows its price difference from the Zelos with a 120-click (instead of a proper 48-click) bezel, male non-quick release end links and a conventional clasp vs. the Zelos’ quick adjust clasp. The Christopher Ward seems nice, but I prefer my Zelos. As of now, there are still some left at $999.
I have a white C63 three hander, and a black C65 Dune three hander. Either would be the ideal everyday watch, but with both I have options.
I think you nailed it with your description of CW, they make well executed watches at affordable prices. They do make some more out there designs, like the C60 concept, or Bel Canto, but their bread and butter is the C60 and C63 line.
The updated version has the new logo which makes it look much better
I like it! 😺The original branding only increases the collectible factor!
I have 6 CW watches now and have not been able to bring myself to buy another since they switched to the hashtag logo instead of the name.
You can no longer call CW a micro brand with the watches they produce today. Personally I love the new dune, both the sand colour and the bronze case one
Great review as always Shane 👍
Thanks. Yeah, they have definetly grown up.
@@RelativeTime donforget that movement is £450 so the overall price of the watch is brilliant value for money
@@RelativeTime 14:18
@@raulgm6281 What about it?
I just got mine in the mail today. Canada Customs hurt cost me another $330, but this is great watch. Already looking at which CW to buy next
Ouch... guess I shouldn't complain about US fees. Glad you are enjoying it.
I bought the exact same watch about 10 months ago and LOVE IT! I got the Black White tide ocean material strap also but quickly switched it to a tan leather strap. I also have a black leather strap w/ orange stitching for it. The CW strap found a new home on my Bulova Lunar Pilot. I see why watch might be considered a homage to the Rolex but I like the dial on the CW MUCH better. CW does promotions often and I got mine for less than $900 before tax.
Really great review of a very nice watch. Obviously, you have patiently spent a lot of time with this watch. Some of my favorite likes on this are being rid of the Mercedes hands and the excess text on the dial. I would take this any day over the Rolex. Love that white dial. This review was worth the wait!
I love steel bezel watches and if I ever go Swiss, this would be it.
Definitely my favourite. Can’t afford an Explorer 2 and it looks very similar
Coincidentally, I just bought it this morning with the new logo! Thank you for the review
That's awesome. I'm sure you will enjoy it.
I picked this up in the distressed green dial last year. I got it on the bracelet but added in a camel coloured strap but when it went on that strap it hasn't come off! If I could only wear one watch now, this would probably be it. You hit on the key point for me - the execution is first rate. Everything is considered and has had attention. It punches way above it's price point.
It is very nice. I have come to really like Christopher Ward ever since they stopped putting Christopher Ward across the dial on the newer watches and just had what I think is a very cool logo. And I bought one ! I suppose we all have different tastes! Excellent review Shane!
Great review and photography and a beautiful watch 👍. I have to agree, I would take that over the Rolex, and it is the best type of homage, inspired by but not copying.
I have this, but with the logo in place of the name on the dial, the updated one. Small change, but big difference. Loved them when first released, but couldn't get past that name in that non-descript font - reminded me of something you'd buy in Debenhams (mid-level UK department store). As soon as they changed to the logo, boom!, I was sold. Really like it, gets lots of wear, and is an absolute strap-monster.😀
I'm the exact opposite :P I have 6 CW watches and I have not been able to bring myself to buy one since they removed the name and put the hashtags on the dial. Luckily each of us has a different opinion :D
@@matthewtaylor6013 Yep.I know long-time CW fans who don't dig the new design style. Me, it was what eventually turned me on to the brand
@@davidlloydjones752 in reality it is such a little thing when the only complaint with a watch is the logo/name lol
I've owned one for a week and absolutely love it ! your review helped heaps thanks
Fantastic watch. I have the sealander 63 and I’m blown away by the fit and finish
Great evaluation of this watch. Bang for your buck CW offer some good watches, much like Steinhart. The still images showing the watch with different straps is a fantastic way to see it in different contexts. New fan from Sydney, Australia.
I have the Dune blue dial in bronze and it is an incredible watch.
Hey Shane, you are my favorite watch youtuber. Thank you for your comprehensive coverage. And good luck
Cheers
I have the green fume dial version, and love it. Personally, I think it looks the best, but just as important, it looks less like the explorer II. It gets more wrist time than my Rolex, Tudor, or TAG. It looks good on the green and orange fabric strap and the brown leather strap, but looks best on the bracelet and black rubber hybrid strap. Great video. 😀
Non-Mercedes hands are a very good design choice.
I have this watch and have seen you mention it before and was hoping you would get around to reviewing it. Great review; thanks! I love this watch and the clean look of the white dial, but despite your comment that the well executed polished hands stand out well against the dial, I'd like to warn your over 40 fans that in some lights and without my reading glasses, it takes more than a glance to tell the time. If I had it do over I think I'd go for the black dial. Back when I bought it CW was giving out $250 off coupons. But the notification just before the expected delivery that unless I paid the import fee (I think it was $125) I would not be receiving my watch was an unpleasant surprise. I agree the bracelet is great. Much superior to (and more expensive than) Vaer's quick release braclet.
Agree with the comment about the hand design/colour. Omega have a white dial Aqua Terra and the hands are much clearer as they have a blackened colouring.
Thanks for another great video! I love watching your work, thanks again Sir!
No Problem.
Great watch! You made a good purchase with that one! 😀
Way better looking than the Rolex for the reasons you pointed out, Shane. Also no hideous cyclops blobby thing at 3 O'clock. The C63 is dial has a more refined, balanced look.
If the resemblance to "that other watch" bothers anyone too much, there is a black dial version of this watch that looks very good.
And the green which is pretty interesting.
More beautiful than an Explorer 2 in my opinion. CW case design gives me the best fit out of all brands. And with everything made in China (except the movement) makes it perfect quality for the money.
Another great review. That's a beautiful CW.
Thanks Shane for review Christopher Ward. I have been on the fence about their watches, I have not seen enough reviews from people I trust.
I own 6 CW watches now. I think like Shane said and I'm going to paraphrase here, "they are not super flashy. They are very well thought out and well built watches with lots of thought and effort put into making them right." The problem on youtube is if it is not flashy then it does not get views :(
I always highly recommend Christopher Ward, London. Great brand and superior quality for value.
Nice review. I own this watch as well as a standard white Sealander..As much as I like the GMT the standard gets a lot more wrist time. By the way what is that blue strap? It's beautiful.
I never found a use for the GMT function and it bothered me it just being there unused. I have the white three hander and I love it as well. It is a strap monster.
very good Video°Super great video. Thanks!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 star review 👍
Why waste money on a Rolex when you can pay good money and far less cost , on a Christopher Ward. Regarding the logo, CW were advised by their lawyers not to use the logo it has now due to legal reasons and to protect themselves from the Swatch Group (Tissot have a similar design and CW were protecting themselves from legal prosecution). Personally I hate the term homage is it implies that the design lacks imagination, but if we are going to use it, then Rolex are paying homage to Glycine as they were the first company to create a GMT watch. Blancpain created the Dive watch we are all familiar with today, but guess what, Rolex takes all the credit. Seems like Rolex is paying homage to everyone else.
Buying a Rolex means you dont pay MSRP from a AD, you research your best options and you take time to make a purchase-decision.
I own a Rolex 16710 GMT-II, coke dial from 2005. At the time that watch was $6k from a AD. I got mine for 25% off from a gray market dealer. The watch itself is iconic in design and the color red and black is very unique. The 3185 movement is solid, has only been serviced 13 yrs after i purchased it because the crown broke and I couldn’t wind the watch. I been offered well over $10k for the watch, but i wont sell it. Definitely an investment when you buy the right watch and you do your homework.
I actually like CW name on the watch than the new flag like logo. I am looking for a CW c63 but i would rather fo used than new. Its hard to find a white bezel watch that looks as good as this one
Why are you such haters of Rolex, yet they are always mentioned and compared with junk like CW.
If you hate Rolex, why do you buy cheap copies of them??
AND I find it highly suspicious that ALL the comments are so over-the-top positive. Come on: It's a watch that looks cheap, is not in any way original and has a laughable name.
If this watch had a proper traveler's GMT function, it would be marvelous!
Agree. Although I can't see that happening anytime soon. The only real option for that is the new Miyota 9075, and they would lose that "Swiss-made" moniker if they used that.
I love this watch, it's gorgeous and very well made and I wanted to purchase it and just before ordering it, I found out that I can't use the GMT function of this watch properly because I live in a timezone with half hour increment (+3:30 gmt) so there is no way that I can set the GMT time correctly. But I ordered a watch from their new 36mm C63 series.
I have seen a few of the 36mm ones and they are beautiful. I own the 39mm three hander and love it. Hopefully you enjoy yours!
I love (the look of) CW watches. This one is great but I am looking at a three hander. Either the C63 Sealander 39mm or the Trident Pro 300 40mm - either in black. I am currently leaning towards the Sealander as I think it just nudges the Trident pro as more of an everyday - go anywhere - do anything watch. Plus I own a number of diver style watches already. Thanks for the review Shane.
I own both a C65 three hander and a C60. Both watches are fantastic and you would not go wrong with either. However the Sealander is a bit more versatile in more situations.
I know many people love this size, but I really wish it was available in 41mm. I have the C60 in 42mm and it is a great size for a diver. For me personally, 39mm just feels a hair too small.
Hi, I really enjoyed the review. I recently discovered the brand, Oak & Oscar, that has the white-dial Humboldt GMT, which also appears to be a homage to the Rolex. It also looks a beautiful watch. My knowledge of watches is slowly increasing with my budding obsession so I'd be interested in how you would you compare the Humboldt with Sealander? Thank you.
CW has announced they will no longer have promo codes. just a heads up.
Ooh okay. That makes the promo codes mention in the video not valid. Okay…waiting for a sale then?!?
Excellent review. I have been on the fence about this watch since it came out. This review may push me over😮 or not. Aggghhht. So many watches, so little time. (Pun?)
I love a GMT , I have a Steinhart one, but I’m planning on getting a Tudor one too. I must, it’s love 😍
my favorite GMT at the moment is the Martac 44 Large. I bought it new from County Comm. It leans heavy on the military side, but I didn't buy it for the ooooo's and ahhhh's.
For the Black and Orange Sailcloth strap from Amazon what watch band size? 20 mm ? or 22 mm?
Not usually a fan of genuine homages, but the hands, the markers, this has got enough of its own thing going on for me.
Almost everything on the market is a homage of some sort or another. Even Rolex borrowed inspiration from others when designing their "signature looks" . What I really appreciate about CW is that in many cases they will actually tell you what their inspirations for the watch were. I have a C65 Dartmouth and on the back of the case it is engraved with the model number of the Omega Seamaster it is inspired by.
@@matthewtaylor6013 I have 4 CWs. Love the modern design of the Sealander and other similar models, but wish they'd do something a little different now.
@@davidlloydjones752 The Dune line and the Aquitaine Line are both a little more traditional as well the military line has some interesting pieces. They have announced an update to their in house movement that will be rolling out soon so I am excited to see where they take that as they have made some interesting and more original designs with their SH21 in the past!
The raised Saphire glass was a big mistake, make it too easy to chip as a tool watch
As homages go, this is beautiful. I’d say that it’s a combination of the explorer and the grand Seiko of a few years ago. I’m lusting after the GMT Anthropocene, I absolutely love it.
Is the AR on the inside only? I try to find a watch without AR on the top. 😊
Isn't the bracelet of this using pins instead of screws? That's what is shown on the pictures at least.
I just traded the white dial C63 Sealander. It was a nice watch but didn’t get enough wrist time. Mine left me kind of flat on the design, just didn’t really connect with it. It’s a very nice watch, just wasn’t for me.
How loud is the rotor?
.. or a PD1682 from Pagani Design ? - for the 'hard of earning' @ around $110 ..
Thickness on CW site is reported as 11.85mm. Has the case been reshaped?
It's possible, although that might not include the crystal or the case back. Every company is different, some include that for total thickness, some don't and just give you "case" thickness.
I regret selling mine a few years back..theres no way I'd buy the quartz version
Let's say this is a great watch is you really want that polar explorer 2 look without spending the very high price tag of the actual watch and get as close as possible look-wise with enough originally, if not subtle differences, in a number of details. CW's light Catcher case is interesting and good looking enough in itself.. let alone a bracelet and clasp system that's very well executed... All be it sometimes I wish they could shorten the clasp length just a bit as it sometimes seems comically as long, if not longer, than the case length itself.
They lengthened the clasp recently to allow my micro adjustment. From listening to interviews with the CW team, it looks like they are in the process of bringing it back down in size. Public feedback seems to be that while more micro adjustment is nice, people do not want it at the expense of a smaller clasp. I would keep an eye out for an updated clasp sometime soon.
@@matthewtaylor6013 the same clasp is basically used across all their modes that have such a bracelet and clasp. It works on the larger dive watches that are 42mm.. even when I had the 40mm c60 it seemed at it's limit, forget about the smaller case sizes without it feeling a bit overwhelming for the scale of the particular watches.
I welcome a downsize to something that seems a little unnecessarily long. One way to make it appear smaller is to reduce the outside, but, it will leave the ratcheting extension exposed which is what I dont like... I think Nodus recently introduced something like that and I don't like to see the exposed extension. Will see how they can keep it basically as it is while reducing it a bit.
Why waste 850 bucks if a Pagani PD-1682 V2 does the same, even closer to the original, for 150 Euros, at a deviation of +3 to +5 seconds per day?
I would go with the green dial. Seems more interesting and does not resemble an explorer II if this is an issue.
The green dial looks really cool. I was tempted by that one, But when I saw this one pop up at a discount and price had to jump on it. No regrets.
@@RelativeTime I saw that there was a white dial on discount the previous days on a strap. I was also tempted but ended up thinking that it is the green dial I am really into and will wait for an opportunity for it.
@@Sakellkon I own both a white C63 Sealander and a black C60 Trident. Both are lovely watches but for some reason the light just plays nicer with the hands and indices on the white dial. I am not sure how the green dial would compare. I also have a C65 Super Compressor with the sand dial and the light play on those indices is amazing so it would be interesting to see the green!
My ideal GMT is a caller GMT as that just functions for myself better. I'm considering a nicer GMT than the Corgeut I bought to see if I'd like the style of a Black Bay GMT when I was early in my watch collecting journey. I just know I want to get a German or Swiss watch when I reach the RUclips Partner Program. As of right now the Laco Aachen 39mm and the Steinhart Ocean One GMT 39mm Batman have my attention, along with a 42mm Hamilton Air Zermatt model.
This was on my list just before Xmas , I prefer the newer logo instead of the name ...... In the end I ended up buying a new PRX 80 and a like 'new' RZE GMT , both for the same money it would have cost for the CW , I do want to pick up a CW at some point though .............. P.S It's my understanding CW have stopped doing there discount codes :(
Have they? I'll have to look into that.
Coincidentally I'm working on a review of the RZE GMT. Awesome watch, really impressed with it.
@@RelativeTime Yeah the “loupe” code that they used to do every so often has been stopped, I read on the FB group CW think it “cheapens” the brand so think only time you’ll get a discount is in there clearance sales ……. As for the RZE that’s a whole story on it’s own 😂😂😂 needless to say Travis at RZE was great and accepted a warranty return when he didn’t have to ( movement stopped working and couldn’t be fixed so they sent me a brand new one) and it’s been sitting in customs for some time and won’t get released until we prove proof of purchase 😂😂 I bought it from eBay but DHL won’t accept that so no idea if I’ll get it back anytime soon
@@MyAlan999 that sounds like a headache. Hopefully gets resolved soon.
@@RelativeTime There was an interview with Mike France (CW CEO) and he was talking about it always being the eventual plan to end the discount codes. @MyAlan999 is also right that there was discussion about it being perceived as lessening the value of the brand. That being said the new Clearance section of the website seems to be the place that Nearly New and overstock are appearing fairly regularly. It showed up after the January sale and has been there since with multiple uploads of stock.
@@matthewtaylor6013 good to know. They have pretty good sales. I paid less for this one then I did my glacier Seiko.
Have they changed the logo?
Yeah, it's now this flag thing that looks like a qr code. So progress, but still a little odd.
@@RelativeTime thanks, boss!
You forgot to mention Traska.
The new GMT they offer uses the 9075 caliber and is under $1000.00
But still a very informative video.
Well, I mentioned that there are the new 9075 gmts and are around $1000. Which most are, the Traska is notable as it comes in a bit under. Although I wasn't necessarily trying to point out any specific competition, just showing off footage that I have of examples.
As for the Traska, looks good but I haven't seen it in person.
@@RelativeTime thank you for the reply
I would love to see you review the Traska GMT - I only mentioned the watch because I recently bought one and I am loving it.
Thank you again
wait i thought this was a caller gmt. the video says its a true gmt. is that right?
No it's a callers GMT. Sorry for the confusion, I do talk about it correctly at 8:10, but I screwed up twice in other parts. I was in a rush trying to get this out before heading out of town on vacation, and didn't even notice I did that.
@@RelativeTime i finally made it to the end and saw. its a shame most the traveler ones are so huge. i wish some brands would just make a smaller one with a jumping hour hand
@@progguy10 What size are you looking for?
@@RelativeTime I have a 6.5in wrist. I love the Longines Zulu time. I wish i could come close to pulling of that watch. Just trying to find a GMT that has a sport/tool watch look that isn’t pushing 50mm lug to lug and 44mm case diameter. make me look like a kid wearing my dads watch. I think it comes down to some watches that have that new miyota movement in it. The Jack Mason has just the look i want. maybe i will wait for the colors to come back in stock.
Thank you for actually saying homage correctly. Tgv and Jody still doesnt seem to know this despite doing this for gears now.
The "H" is not silent in the British or UK pronunciation. The US follows the French in leaving the "H" silent. Which one is more correct depends on where you are.
@@P_Ezi There are many funny things that Americans say or pronounce weird that I just have to laugh about when watching RUclips.
I think both ways are technically proper, I just can bring myself to say Hom-Age... it just sounds strange to me. Like its some strange version of porridge.
@@matthewtaylor6013 It is interesting that _both_ sides wonder why so many letters are not pronounced by the other side. For example herb/'erb, homage/'omage, soLder/sodder, Birming'am/Birmingham, ca'/car, and etc.
The odd thing is that the US pronunciations are often closer to the original donor languages than the UK versions. For example homage/'omage, oreGANo/oREGano, and herb/'erb. BUT there are times when the UK is closer to the donor, such as the borrowed word niche, pronounced as neesh/nitch.
Calling this a homage because it is white and has an orange GMT hand is a little far fetched. It's based on their own light catcher design cases. It has baton indices, very different from the Rolex circular and triangular indices, and finally the CW signature handset which I love.
You don't have to apologize for identifying an out-designed Rolex. It is a low bar.
Who gives a crap about the CW logo. It’s never bothered me. Some people would call it a game changer, but if such a small detail would dissuade someone from buying a watch from this company, this person probably didn’t really want one of their watches in the first place.
You really make me wanting to get this watch. Man, I hate you. :D 🎉🕐🍺🍸🍸
Good watch, but CW cheaped out making this a callers GMT, not a true GMT. I have zero use for such a watch.
It's a true homage of the Rolex Explorer II. Only an uneducated clown would call it a copy. There's so much different about the CW to the Rolex piece that I could fill pages.
That hour hand has kept me from buying it.
The shape?
I struggle with Christopher Ward, you have that logo, they have changed it to a black flags combo on the current one and next year it will be an applied version or something completely different. Their watches look dated so quickly. I think the bel canto is the first watch they have made with carefully applied branding, ie none on the dial.
I think there are too many GMT’s available now, it used to be a selling point but now they are everywhere I don’t think they are particularly special and they aren’t really useful if I’m honest. For a daily watch I would prefer a time and date only .
That said I love my black bay pro just because it looks gorgeous to me and their are a few other GMT’s that just look amazing. I’m really not sure why their are so many good looking GMT’s. The Maen gmt they released recently is a stunner.
I don’t think it flies too close to the “replica” state. It’s clearly pulling off the same vibe but doesn’t trigger any alarms for me anyway. You and others in your same “cheap and cheerful” watch lane have referenced build quality “close to” or “similar to” or even “just as good as” high end luxury brand quality on occasion. There is no evidence you guys have any clue what that means. I think you should do a vid where you ACTUALLY review a luxury watch. Let us see that you have actually held one the next time you say what you say.
I don't believe I said any of that. I think the closest I came was saying "CW gives you a glimpse of what to expect at higher price tiers". Which simply means it has a quality better then what I've seen at this price range. Potentially giving you glimpses of what you might expect as you go upwards.
That and "the only people who don't like cw are luxury fans who don't believe it's as good as it is". Which you just proved.
Look, I know why you made this comment. As so many other videos tend to go down that route. Yet, since I don't have a ton of experience, I purposely avoided it. I don't mind being called out if I say something. But at least make sure I say it, first.
@@RelativeTime not sure why you are getting your hackles up. A) I like CW so I don’t think I’ve proven anything. B) I wasn’t calling you out. I believe what you are saying. In fact since I can say for certain that what you’ve said is true. (You seemingly can’t ). C) if you are going to compare the properties of one object to another (by telling folks it gives them a glimpse of what to expect from higher end tiers- which I agree with you) shouldn’t you demonstrate some understanding of that standard? AlI I was suggesting is a show where you actually review a piece from those tiers so people can see what you are talking about. I wasn’t trying to be a jerk (although my syntax could have been softer) I was suggesting a cool show that would establish a baseline of understanding when you say things like “a glimpse of what higher tiers can offer”. The CW cost approx 1/10 of a Rolex GMT. (For example) Your inference is you get far more than 1/10 the value. Absolutely true. I wasn’t trying to start a war. If so many videos go this route, why not follow the thread? Look, I watch a few videos about watches. I’m certainly not an expert (what’s lower than a novice?) in your content creator space. If it’s a dumb idea say so but I’m certainly not proving your point about dickheads who just like expensive watches because they are expensive. I’m a fan of cool watches. Some of them are pretty expensive. Some aren’t.
@@bobbailey6398 Well your initial comment was harsher, or at least my interpretation of it. But since it evidently wasn't intended that way, lets back up and start over.
Now in theory having a video directly comparing a CW to a luxury watch is a great idea. Yet there are some logistic issues shall we say, that make it problematic. Although first off this also depends on what you define as a luxury watch. Like when I was saying glimpses of higher price tiers, I was more talking about the $2k, $3k price points (high-end), not necessarily the 10k luxury areas. If you talking about comparing it to a higher-end watch, that's potentially doable. Even if you are just comparing it to other watches at the 1k price point, I got plenty of experience. And with that, I can tell you this is hands down the best-executed watch I've seen at that level. It's when you talk Rolex level that things get tricky.
For those of us not in the luxury game, it's not easy to find someone who will lend you a 10k watch, and most channels don't make near enough to justify buying one for a video. Or at least I know I don't. Beyond that though, I don't think having experience with one luxury watch would be good enough for that type of video.
For that, I think you would want someone who not only has an explorer ii, but also has plenty of experience with other luxury watches. Someone who really knows what they are talking about. The trick with that is that most people I've seen in the luxury game don't have any interest in CW. In fact, they are typically the segment that dislikes them. In my opinion for luxury fans, it's more about what a watch represents, than what it is. So it's no longer about value (or reality in some cases). For them, CW doesn't hold any interest. So I don't see the likely hood of those channels doing a video like that, or if they do having it fair and balanced. I still remember a video Archie foaming at the mouth about CW. I don't even remember if there was a real reason why, or if he was just on some rant.
I didn’t mean to be critical. I was offering a suggestion. That I thought was helpful. It might be a terrible idea. I wouldn’t use Archie as a standard for other watch enthusiasts! Lol The natural comparison would be to Rolex in this case but I wasn’t suggesting a head to head comparison. I was suggesting doing a show on a modern (not a 30 year old one) sub and/or gmt. This way when you in future videos say something along the lines of a glimpse into or reminiscent of or what ever we know that you have a defendable perspective. We don’t have to agree with you but we could trust youR judgement (otherwise why are we following the channel). It’s like you going on vacation in SAN Antonio and saying it gave you a glimpse of living in Sausalito. But you have never been to Sausalito. It just seemed odd. If you are ever in Sausalito I’ll be happy to lend you mine. And for the record (again) I think CW is good value for money. Beyond that price point things CAN get better but it’s a rapidly diminishing return
I didn’t mean to be critical. I was offering a suggestion. That I thought was helpful. It might be a terrible idea. I wouldn’t use Archie as a standard for other watch enthusiasts! Lol The natural comparison would be to Rolex in this case but I wasn’t suggesting a head to head comparison. I was suggesting doing a show on a modern (not a 30 year old one) sub and/or gmt. This way when you in future videos say something along the lines of a glimpse into or reminiscent of or what ever we know that you have a defendable perspective. We don’t have to agree with you but we could trust youR judgement (otherwise why are we following the channel). It’s like you going on vacation in SAN Antonio and saying it gave you a glimpse of living in Sausalito. But you have never been to Sausalito. It just seemed odd. If you are ever in Sausalito I’ll be happy to lend you mine. And for the record (again) I think CW is good value for money. Beyond that price point things CAN get better but it’s a rapidly diminishing return
I love the watch is that Christopher Ward has to offer. If they had made the GMT hand and text red instead of orange, we wouldn’t be having the homage conversation… Like the logo fine… But Christopher Ward in place of the logo is very offputting IMO
There's no doubt they are well made but looks to much like a Rolex and I hate Rolex watches. Come CW original designs are what we want...