TGV returns!! And with an exceptional start of 2025 with Vertex! British for British! You honestly can’t find a more fantastic field watch with this kind of history! Don Cochrane has done something truly remarkable in bringing his family legacy back to life and still in the family. Nobody does lume anywhere close to Vertex. Have owned the Vertex Bronze 75 and the alloy used has gently “warmed” where touch points occur but the extent of patinantion is almost unnoticeable after several years. So this choice of bronze alloy is unlike those of older eras. Owning a Vertex is like touching a piece of history but without the fears which accompany vintage watches. The price is really fair for something finished to this degree and with this Swiss movement finished to the degree Don Cochrane demanded. This is not some entry level watch but an affordable watch that I would say runs among far bigger names in quality and finishing. What you get from Vertex - which NO other company has done this well - is make the at home “unboxing” a genuine event which felt curated in such a way you almost think Churchill himself wrote the welcome letter and the Quartermaster boxed and bagged up your field equipment. It’s worthy of opening a bottle of something special to appreciate the entire unboxing event! As always pure class TGV! Onward and Upward!
TGV, your editing is always on point, but I have to say, this piece was especially well done. The dive into British history and self identity was inspired and educational. Please never leave us!
Vertex M36 is going to be my 2025 purchase as I’m getting married in June. My grandparents were married for 76 years and met in ‘45 as my grandpa was stationed in London where he met my grandma at a British Legion Dance during WWII. All of the points you made is exactly how I feel about the Vertex brand and the M36 model. Thank you TGV!
I really must say the difference in tone and expression in quite noticeable now that you have gone independent. You sound so relaxed, free to speak your mind and go in any direction. One thing is to is make claims but you clearly followed through. We all win 💪
This man's videos are severely underrated. Clearly one can see his script and video editing skills are on another level. Thank you for a professional presentation and for sharing your knowledge and passion with us.
A fantastic show T! Always love the historic element you give to a watch related show! But to have it with a Vertex M36?? Superb! Personally maybe a manual wind 36 would’ve been my choice however I know the majority of watches sent back to Vertex to fix are from owners who have over wound them!!!! Automatics can’t be overwound as you know. Resonates is the perfect word btw!
Grazie again fratello, your appreciation for this brand and your contribution to this video made it possible. O&U! T. P.s. I hope Mrs MWC got her hummus ok! 😅👏👏👏
@@theurbangentry And we all thank the two of you for your awesome shows. Your love for watches and history takes me back to the '90, when I used to watch Discovery channel, especially their shows about historical military campaigns and confrontations.
What an absolutely brilliant video. Came here expecting a simple watch review but was treated to a fabulous dive into all things militarily British. Thank you so much. I have subscribed immediately.
Starting off the new year with a bang! And a Gerber running knife? LOL. I own 2 Vertex watches and have handled several more. Amazing build quality and the kit is second to none because you can use everything in the box and the box itself. Plus, Don’s an amazing gentleman. Not only a great host at the NYC meetup but someone you can have a pint with and talk watches. Wishing Vertex all the success in the world. On&Up, D
We too watched all 6 episodes of season 2 in one afternoon and loved it. Ironically we then watched season 1. It was ok in that order, you immediately know the characters and you know who makes it, and who doesn't!! Great watch and very tempting for the reasons you say. And roll on season 3.
Broad Arrow proofmarks aren’t “stolen honor” if that item is part of the “standard issue” gear for your fictional character. Omega isn’t representing the watch as a war relic, but it is part of Commander Bond’s backstory.
I bought a Christopher Ward “Sandhurst” 1, Smiths W10 homage, a COSC certified high quality British military watch for $800 off their website. Hard to justify the 2.5x price of the Vertex. Otherwise Tristano, an outstanding review as usual. A beautiful watch if one values the brand and its history. Thank you. (and don’t sell the Explorer).
@@drnick40 very nice watch in the CW65 Sandhurst and looks great too but doesn’t have history or the legend attached to the Dirty Dozen and Vertex being the only British built watch among them…the price seems fair to me for that sort of “carrying the torch” of a historic brand. But the Smiths is not in the same category as Vertex or CW…so a price comparison there isn’t really fair. I’d place Vertex in the same range as some big Swiss group brands and def would think the price seems fair as it’s a few hundred above the CW and a few below bigger brands.
TGV, you have masterfully provided a watch review with such a historical context in the most impressive of ways. It has been through your videos that I have found my way towards deep dives into military history. Thank you kind sir!
Thanks so much for putting this brand on my radar. I'm just a casual watch enthusiast but eager to support quality watchmakers that don't enough attention. Cheers from San Diego!!!
Great review sir! I've been on the fence on whether to pull the trigger on this piece since its release. Finally bought the steel version at the weekend. Very much in the honeymoon period with it right now, but it really is a lovely, no nonsense watch with a fascinating heritage and story behind it. With a family history in military including both world wars, it also resonates personally. I will add one note, and that's the cotton strap it's supplied on is SUPER comfortable. Finally, a quick mention of Fears. Another great British watch brand with excellent timepieces and customer service experience. Lovely guys too.
Outstanding as ever! I just bought my first Panerai (PAM 390) so will have to save up for this one - which also caught my eye. I love how you merge culture, humour, style - and your family story. I've a proud link of my own - my grandfather was one of the weather forecasters for D Day (the meteorologist Sir O. G. Sutton).
As a British veteran (Iraq & Afghanistan) I have a nostalgia for G shock as I wore one on during my whole time serving. I think its cool you have an 'attachment ' to WW2 era watches as I'm sure it creates a connection to your ancestors. Huge repsect for the VC 🫡
I was looking forward to this video, TGV and I applaud you for it. Many of the watches that you have profiled recently (end of 2024) are just out of many of our price ranges. But this one has class, style, heritage, and elegance that doesn’t have to break the bank. Thank you for that, my friend. Upwards and onward always.
TGV - please do a deep dive into CWC I believe they have the longest standing military watch contract of all time Still supplying watches to the MOD since 1972 to this day A tonne of heritage and a fantastic range of nostalgic, genuine military issue watches
I have covered them last year in fact, but you are right, not to this detail. I will certainly consider revisiting them again in ht future, thank you, great choice and brand. Best regards, TGV
An excellent video with your superb blend of style and historic importance making this my favourite video of yours so far ! To now knock the ball out of the park please create an in depth CWC video of witch l have 12 watches from them and thier involvement with the British forces shoukd shared and l believe you are that person !!
Thank you so much my fratello! Always great to see you in the comments, I hope this finds you, your family all well and 2025 off to a good start. O&U! Best regards as always, T.
An urban gentry Vertex collab would be sensational! Totally agree that this should have been thinner, handwound and with a signed crown. The minute-track feels slightly oversized and clunky visually, especially when emphasised by the distortion of the domed saphire. The second dial concentric circles would have also been a lovley touch. Get it done TGV.
One of the most beautiful videos recently. Also fantastic historical hints on Britishness. Also fantastic watch, I bought a few years ago the Smiths W10 from Timefactors, a cheaper alternative but equally satisfyng! Keep it up!
Great question. I have decided against it, long story but unfortunately it will to be possible. I will talk about it in a live show about Seiko soon. I will always love Seiko and a Japan trip will happen but not with GS. Stay tuned. Thank you, Best regards, TGV
@@theurbangentry I look forward to the video. I sincerely thought you were 100% on board with adding a Grand Seiko to your collection. I am saddened but can't wait to hear your story. Warm regards my friend. SCG
Absolutely agree - this is the should-have-been Bond watch! But for Daniel Craig I'd have chosen a CWC. Thanks TGV, great pleasure as always. Cheers from Bremen/Germany 🧡
Wonderfully done - again! - and even have the Mad man drop in midway (this is all about Vertex, so how could he not?), and a concise history recap as well.
Excellent video! I had the Vertex in hand in their most excellent and friendly London Boutique (cheers, Hugo!) and was very impressed. The details of the watch are good - this really is a cut above. I like their approach not to create a 1:1 replica, but a modern reinterpretation. A modern field watch with true heritage. Personally, I'd prefer some non-NATO strap options at point of sale, but ultimately that's easily rectified at Watch Obsession. And sorry, did I congratulate you on the video? I did, oh sorry. Well, it was very good.
Relying on your history and your name in todays world is not enough, as much as I love the image of Vertex and what they represent the watches themselves are over priced for what they are. I loved your review and I must say it’s has moved me a little closer to the brand , thank you . 🌅We shall remember them
I’ve had my M100AC for over a year and worn it 24/7 its still perfect, when i was buying it I got to chat with the owner of Vertex, I have had a very warm welcome at their shop in Mayfair, I have not seen another Vertex in “the wild” so quick summary would be this brand is exclusive, subtle, and offer a personal service that is impossible for larger brands to emulate. A very satisfying experience and definitely worth the money to me.
Welcome back fratello! This Vertex looks lovely. I really love the dial and the fact that it's British. I really might have to save for one. The strap is amazing too. Would love the review one sometime. Oh my word that bronze one with the green. Hope you had a great time with family and friends. Hope to connect with you soon.
I agree TGV the Vertex has the history, quality & the layout is unmatched in present day field watches in my opinion. My English Great Grand Father died in Egypt fighting for Great Britain in WW2 & this M100A 40mm version would be the perfect reminder of him on my wrist but I just cant pull the trigger as its not worth the price. At half price the current RRP I would pull the trigger but not now. I'm hoping Longines make a new dirty dozen to commemorate their WW2 version & I would buy that in an instance if it was priced competitively, value for money wise. Great video as always. Ciao
Very much enjoyed this. I looked at both the M100A and the M36 in the Vertex boutique and chatted briefly with Don Cochran - top man. I was edging more towards the M100A, but now potentially going to the M36 - decisions, decisions. Yes the price is high, but the quality is definitely up there. CWC were doing the 1980 reissue for similar sort of money, so I’m not sure the price is that bad.
Good afternoon, I am a faithful follower of your channel as a simple hobbyist and lover of watches. Military watches, or rather watches since they were incorporated into the equipment of the different military units as simple and perfect tools, have been the collection that I am most passionate about and capture my list of interests. Regardless of the cost or value of the pieces. I own Casio watches such as our highly appreciated DW-290 and other pieces of much more economic value. I am passionate about the history of military watches and your contributions as an analyst and reviewer are an appreciated source of information and inspiration. There is a British brand that reflects the essence of military watches like no other: CWC. And its legendary RN81 CLEARANCE DIVER AUTOMATIC WATCH is the piece that I would most like you to bring to the channel. Thank you and a hug from Spain.
As someone who has a collection of many , simple dive, professional/sports, and field watches, I've always liked the 'dirty dozen ' group of watches and the design that the British military required . But I never actively sorted out a vintage 1943/4 watch. I knew of the rebirth of the brand by a family member and liked the version that they produced and their history. Last year, while visiting Salisbury, I looked in an interesting little antique shop that had a small collection of vintage watches. One of them was a Vertex W.W.W cal.59 . After having a think about it and looking at the prices of similar ones I made an offer as it was in good condition for a 70-year-old watch. I bought it as a gift for myself as it was my last year working full time in London. It's a great little piece that still keeps good time and from the only UK manufacturers apart from the Swiss movement that produced one of the twelve watches. Also, they had a factory and office in Hatton Garden, London, which is the same street and a few doors away from where I did my apprenticeship many years ago.
Perfect timing. My one watch now is a 1990 Navy issued CWC G10... on a grey nato. I've had a few Omegas, IWC etc... but this watch is just pure, no nonsense, legible, cool. I love it and would highly recommend. Maybe Mr Bond would dabble a little in CWC
Love your videos. The consistency of your content quality is really outstanding and Im still excited when I see a new video made by you after these multiple years. Thank you.
I recently chose a British watch, Farer and they brand new field collection, Lomond II, Pembroke and Exmoor, 38mm date pointers, now I chose the Lomond II, nicely made, maybe you could check them out.... I've looked at Vertex in the past, but I find them a bit on the pricey side, history or not....
LOVE Farer, great brand. I reviewed them a few years back, very cool branding, fresh design and use of British history in their naming/inspiration, as your superb choices demonstrate so well. Enjoy and thank you for the comment, excellent contribution. Best regards, TGV
Great video. Thanks. My $.02 is that it's a great watch, quite a bit overpriced. If I recall, there was a bit of marketing gamesmanship when the brand re-launched that put me off. Pity because as a retired military officer myself, the design and quality are very attractive. All the best.
Great video,and lovely watch! I think Omega should learn from this. Just imagining their modern meta grade 8927 manual wind movement,with a 36mm case and dial thats based on the omega dirty dozen,with a signed screwdown crown to complete the package ❤ If enough companies revisited their past and did dirty dozen reissues,it would be a reason to collect them.
I too have fallen into an absolute stupor with how wonderful Rogue Heroes is. Absolutely wonderful. I think you have a valid point. I have never thought of Omega as a Bond watch. It just isn’t. Vertex would be far superior. I recently picked up a CWC and could easily see either the CWC or Vertex fitting Bond. If it was to stay true to Fleming’s intent, I have a feeling he would wear a Tudor FXD or Pelagos 39. Excellently done as always, my friend. Onward and upward!
Many? The only accurate one is Europa the final battle. The mainstream historical revisionism, fawning over Churchill and all the rest is such nauseating regime propaganda that people should really see through by now as their country is deliberately subverted.
Thanks for this video, I'm of British and German descent and have been looking for a British field watch to go with the German, Sinn U50 SL I recently purchased and I had no idea this brand even existed, They're definitely on the short list now.
Nice looking watch, except for the lume on the hands having a different hue then the lume on the markers. I own a British Smiths Deluxe A404 from 1953, which I quite fancy. It is 95% identical to the watch that actually summited Everest, and looks quite similar to the Dirty Dozen watches in design.
The Copper one with the British Green dial is a masterclass in... well, class! Even the pieces of thread on the strap match the vintage look of what I can only call the closest to field-watch perfection. Also, the combination of colours and materials gives it warmth, as if it were alive. Steampunk spirit at it's brightest. The Stainless steel isn't bad either, still close to what I envision as the perfect field watch, especially with the micro seconds hand. The Khaki doesn't even come close to this level of style.
This watch was already a must for me for 2025, but seeing it live on this episode has sealed the deal. The only problem is, now I also want the bronze one!
I had the M100A 40mm size. It's awesomely great watch. Out of all D12 watches out there, I still feel Vertex makes them the best. They have a specific design aesthetic which really resonates with me. The 36mm is cool and truer to the vintage model. But, I don't want to deal with the lack of options, if not fiddly operation with the strap screws, to swap out aftermarket strap options of my choice. Also, I appreciate the 40mm has a matching bracelet option. This type of watch probably better on a Nato-style, some other passthrough strap, or 2-pc strap. But, I like to have options including a bracelet when I feel like it. IDK? I may revisit and get another m100a. some day.
Happy New Year sir. Hope you and your family had a great holiday season. Very classy watch from a brand with a super history. As much as I've tried (and I have) I just can't get along with small seconds. However love the fact the design reflects the original. Lovely watch, great video 👍
As always a great show! I was really impressed with the quality when I had it on loan for a week from WG. Yes it is a little pricey - BUT it’s subjective - you can’t deny the history and importance of it as a watch.
I love watches from that era. I just had the good fortune of acquiring an Omega 2179 in original condition with fantastic patina. It's the civilian issue but I love it to bits nonetheless. I don't know when it was last serviced but it keeps better time than nearly any other watch I own.
Enjoyed that, thanks. Would love a Formex - the M36 bronze/black especially but the MP45 looks fantastic, but both the auto and manual probably much too tall for my liking. All out of my price range though, unfortunately!
I'm a Cornishman living in London. I also lived and worked across Piemonte, VDA, Lombardia and Veneto for 5 years. Learning the Italian language (and culture) the hard way in my 30s. So I imagine our idealisation of "Britishness" is similar. It no longer exists as perhaps we would like to perceive it. (Though the shadow of the 13 colonies is long indeed.) But I love the perspective here and your reverence for both the brand and Don.
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
TGV returns!! And with an exceptional start of 2025 with Vertex! British for British! You honestly can’t find a more fantastic field watch with this kind of history! Don Cochrane has done something truly remarkable in bringing his family legacy back to life and still in the family. Nobody does lume anywhere close to Vertex. Have owned the Vertex Bronze 75 and the alloy used has gently “warmed” where touch points occur but the extent of patinantion is almost unnoticeable after several years. So this choice of bronze alloy is unlike those of older eras. Owning a Vertex is like touching a piece of history but without the fears which accompany vintage watches. The price is really fair for something finished to this degree and with this Swiss movement finished to the degree Don Cochrane demanded. This is not some entry level watch but an affordable watch that I would say runs among far bigger names in quality and finishing. What you get from Vertex - which NO other company has done this well - is make the at home “unboxing” a genuine event which felt curated in such a way you almost think Churchill himself wrote the welcome letter and the Quartermaster boxed and bagged up your field equipment. It’s worthy of opening a bottle of something special to appreciate the entire unboxing event! As always pure class TGV! Onward and Upward!
Pinned in your honour fratello! Thank you so much for taking the time to share that,
O&U!
T.
P.s. Catch up presto 😉
Meh, get fog out of your head, it’s just another SELLITA SW260 movement, has nothing to do with British history.
@ you must be a retard. Clearly ignorant of the Vertex history.
TGV, your editing is always on point, but I have to say, this piece was especially well done. The dive into British history and self identity was inspired and educational. Please never leave us!
Vertex M36 is going to be my 2025 purchase as I’m getting married in June. My grandparents were married for 76 years and met in ‘45 as my grandpa was stationed in London where he met my grandma at a British Legion Dance during WWII.
All of the points you made is exactly how I feel about the Vertex brand and the M36 model. Thank you TGV!
Congratulations! And wow! What a fantastic example your grandparents set. That's going to be hard record to beat!
What a great story. And congratulations to you and your future wife.
I really must say the difference in tone and expression in quite noticeable now that you have gone independent. You sound so relaxed, free to speak your mind and go in any direction. One thing is to is make claims but you clearly followed through. We all win 💪
Your ability to seamlessly integrate history with the world of horology is truly remarkable...
TUG is good, but the Oisin O Malley channel is better at it
This man's videos are severely underrated.
Clearly one can see his script and video editing skills are on another level.
Thank you for a professional presentation and for sharing your knowledge and passion with us.
I couldn’t agree more, pure class, as always 👌🏻
I read, "Clearly one can see his script..." when I was paused at 3:37, and for the first time I realized he's probably holding his script in his hand.
Who stated that they are underrated?
@Buuz-j7u @Resolute900 is saying it.
There was a meeting at the United Nations last week. @Buuz-j7u
A fantastic show T! Always love the historic element you give to a watch related show! But to have it with a Vertex M36?? Superb! Personally maybe a manual wind 36 would’ve been my choice however I know the majority of watches sent back to Vertex to fix are from owners who have over wound them!!!! Automatics can’t be overwound as you know. Resonates is the perfect word btw!
Grazie again fratello, your appreciation for this brand and your contribution to this video made it possible.
O&U!
T.
P.s. I hope Mrs MWC got her hummus ok! 😅👏👏👏
@@theurbangentry And we all thank the two of you for your awesome shows.
Your love for watches and history takes me back to the '90, when I used to watch Discovery channel, especially their shows about historical military campaigns and confrontations.
Well, now these series are on my list as well)))! Thanks a lot for sharing! Have a great weekend ahead, Sir TGV!
What an absolutely brilliant video. Came here expecting a simple watch review but was treated to a fabulous dive into all things militarily British.
Thank you so much. I have subscribed immediately.
So pleased I've discovered this channel, four purchases later, my wife, less so..
@@simons1543 haha I just bought a Casio DW2900 because of this wonderfully dangerous channel!
LOL!
Starting off the new year with a bang! And a Gerber running knife? LOL. I own 2 Vertex watches and have handled several more. Amazing build quality and the kit is second to none because you can use everything in the box and the box itself. Plus, Don’s an amazing gentleman. Not only a great host at the NYC meetup but someone you can have a pint with and talk watches. Wishing Vertex all the success in the world. On&Up, D
We too watched all 6 episodes of season 2 in one afternoon and loved it. Ironically we then watched season 1. It was ok in that order, you immediately know the characters and you know who makes it, and who doesn't!!
Great watch and very tempting for the reasons you say.
And roll on season 3.
Broad Arrow proofmarks aren’t “stolen honor” if that item is part of the “standard issue” gear for your fictional character. Omega isn’t representing the watch as a war relic, but it is part of Commander Bond’s backstory.
Nicely done as always. Cheers!
I bought a Christopher Ward “Sandhurst” 1, Smiths W10 homage, a COSC certified high quality British military watch for $800 off their website. Hard to justify the 2.5x price of the Vertex. Otherwise Tristano, an outstanding review as usual. A beautiful watch if one values the brand and its history. Thank you. (and don’t sell the Explorer).
@@drnick40 very nice watch in the CW65 Sandhurst and looks great too but doesn’t have history or the legend attached to the Dirty Dozen and Vertex being the only British built watch among them…the price seems fair to me for that sort of “carrying the torch” of a historic brand. But the Smiths is not in the same category as Vertex or CW…so a price comparison there isn’t really fair. I’d place Vertex in the same range as some big Swiss group brands and def would think the price seems fair as it’s a few hundred above the CW and a few below bigger brands.
TGV, you have masterfully provided a watch review with such a historical context in the most impressive of ways. It has been through your videos that I have found my way towards deep dives into military history. Thank you kind sir!
Incredibly fascinating piece...It has been on my wishlist for over a year now, and I will buy it as soon as I can. Grande video come sempre Tristano
Thank you for the tribute at the end. They shall not grow old ❤
I've had my M100 for several years now. Love the watch and the brand. Great video video by the way!
Always a pleasure when TGV comes with a new video!
Thanks so much for putting this brand on my radar. I'm just a casual watch enthusiast but eager to support quality watchmakers that don't enough attention. Cheers from San Diego!!!
VW Vertex Watches. Lovely watch, but love that Hanhart.
Great review sir! I've been on the fence on whether to pull the trigger on this piece since its release. Finally bought the steel version at the weekend. Very much in the honeymoon period with it right now, but it really is a lovely, no nonsense watch with a fascinating heritage and story behind it. With a family history in military including both world wars, it also resonates personally. I will add one note, and that's the cotton strap it's supplied on is SUPER comfortable. Finally, a quick mention of Fears. Another great British watch brand with excellent timepieces and customer service experience. Lovely guys too.
This is a brilliant piece. Both the watch and your presentation. Well done, sir.
Wearing my M36 while watching this. Thank you for the incredible review.
Most beautiful video recently and beautiful vintage inspired watch. My wanna be watch for sure! Thank you TGV 🙌🏻🇵🇭
You are an excellent videographer! Thank you for all the work you put into your presentations!
In my very humble opinion, your best and most entertaining video yet. The Vertex M36 is on my wishlist for my 60th birthday present to myself.
Outstanding as ever! I just bought my first Panerai (PAM 390) so will have to save up for this one - which also caught my eye.
I love how you merge culture, humour, style - and your family story. I've a proud link of my own - my grandfather was one of the weather forecasters for D Day (the meteorologist Sir O. G. Sutton).
This video was a masterpiece. Your best yet
Absolutely loved that, thanks TGV, you’ve left me with food for thought on my next time piece 🤔
Excellent video!! Wonderful story line, a bit of history, and your own views on the product. Very refreshing channel
As a British veteran (Iraq & Afghanistan) I have a nostalgia for G shock as I wore one on during my whole time serving. I think its cool you have an 'attachment ' to WW2 era watches as I'm sure it creates a connection to your ancestors. Huge repsect for the VC 🫡
Great channel. Love my Vertex M100AC
I was looking forward to this video, TGV and I applaud you for it. Many of the watches that you have profiled recently (end of 2024) are just out of many of our price ranges. But this one has class, style, heritage, and elegance that doesn’t have to break the bank. Thank you for that, my friend. Upwards and onward always.
Excellent video TGV great all round delve into the history of vertex and a really nice touch at the end pure class as somebody once said.
Fantastic as always! Cinematically gorgeous and agree with your watch choice as up close it's amazing and the LUME!
TGV - please do a deep dive into CWC
I believe they have the longest standing military watch contract of all time
Still supplying watches to the MOD since 1972 to this day
A tonne of heritage and a fantastic range of nostalgic, genuine military issue watches
Yes!!!
@@gjuttla704 Yeah mate, do you not know about CWC???
@ I have several! :) It does upset me, how Hamilton gets a lot of mention over, or instead of, CWC.
@@gjuttla704 and they’re not a relaunched brand making copies of original watches - they’re an original brand making actual originals
I have covered them last year in fact, but you are right, not to this detail. I will certainly consider revisiting them again in ht future, thank you, great choice and brand.
Best regards,
TGV
Your jacket is Prince of Wales Check 😁the last British monarch not to be born in England was in 1680 something, great video as always.
An excellent video with your superb blend of style and historic importance making this my favourite video of yours so far !
To now knock the ball out of the park please create an in depth CWC video of witch l have 12 watches from them and thier involvement with the British forces shoukd shared and l believe you are that person !!
TGV you definitely hit a home run with this video, fantastic and educational / historical
😊🙏👍
Thank you so much my fratello! Always great to see you in the comments, I hope this finds you, your family all well and 2025 off to a good start. O&U!
Best regards as always,
T.
An urban gentry Vertex collab would be sensational!
Totally agree that this should have been thinner, handwound and with a signed crown. The minute-track feels slightly oversized and clunky visually, especially when emphasised by the distortion of the domed saphire. The second dial concentric circles would have also been a lovley touch. Get it done TGV.
Fantastic as always TGV 👏 👌 👍
One of the most beautiful videos recently. Also fantastic historical hints on Britishness. Also fantastic watch, I bought a few years ago the Smiths W10 from Timefactors, a cheaper alternative but equally satisfyng! Keep it up!
When is the Japan trip due? You said you will mark it with buying a GS. I have been looking forward to that.
Great question. I have decided against it, long story but unfortunately it will to be possible. I will talk about it in a live show about Seiko soon. I will always love Seiko and a Japan trip will happen but not with GS. Stay tuned.
Thank you,
Best regards,
TGV
@@theurbangentry bummer 😢
@@theurbangentry no worries. Japan is always a lifetime memory even without a GS. Onwards and upwards.
@@theurbangentry I look forward to the video. I sincerely thought you were 100% on board with adding a Grand Seiko to your collection. I am saddened but can't wait to hear your story. Warm regards my friend. SCG
Love this vid. As a war history head this was great 🤘🏼🇸🇪
Your production skills are on par with top industry professionals. Fantastic commentary, production, editing, content, keep it up!
You should have your own TV show! Outstanding quality content, like nothing else on RUclips. Best regards from Derby, England.
Great show TGV. Most enjoyable & now looking at Vertex. You will get me in trouble.I’ve got too many watches already.
Wow, the intro is fantastic!
I want the bronze one! Too cool. P. S. Great footage, and history information as always.
Beautiful watch. And video 👍🏼
Absolutely agree - this is the should-have-been Bond watch! But for Daniel Craig I'd have chosen a CWC. Thanks TGV, great pleasure as always. Cheers from Bremen/Germany 🧡
Wonderfully done - again! - and even have the Mad man drop in midway (this is all about Vertex, so how could he not?), and a concise history recap as well.
Excellent video! I had the Vertex in hand in their most excellent and friendly London Boutique (cheers, Hugo!) and was very impressed. The details of the watch are good - this really is a cut above. I like their approach not to create a 1:1 replica, but a modern reinterpretation. A modern field watch with true heritage. Personally, I'd prefer some non-NATO strap options at point of sale, but ultimately that's easily rectified at Watch Obsession. And sorry, did I congratulate you on the video? I did, oh sorry. Well, it was very good.
Relying on your history and your name in todays world is not enough, as much as I love the image of Vertex and what they represent the watches themselves are over priced for what they are. I loved your review and I must say it’s has moved me a little closer to the brand , thank you . 🌅We shall remember them
VW - Vertex Watches I would have thought. Lovely video, thank you
Just bought the Valour strap to go with my Explorer, it looks fantastic in the video, can’t wait to get it!
Thanks TGV. That was very good. Thanks for the movie references I have got to re-watch.
I’ve had my M100AC for over a year and worn it 24/7 its still perfect, when i was buying it I got to chat with the owner of Vertex, I have had a very warm welcome at their shop in Mayfair, I have not seen another Vertex in “the wild” so quick summary would be this brand is exclusive, subtle, and offer a personal service that is impossible for larger brands to emulate. A very satisfying experience and definitely worth the money to me.
@@wolfdog170 hear hear!!
Welcome back fratello!
This Vertex looks lovely. I really love the dial and the fact that it's British. I really might have to save for one. The strap is amazing too. Would love the review one sometime. Oh my word that bronze one with the green.
Hope you had a great time with family and friends. Hope to connect with you soon.
I agree TGV the Vertex has the history, quality & the layout is unmatched in present day field watches in my opinion. My English Great Grand Father died in Egypt fighting for Great Britain in WW2 & this M100A 40mm version would be the perfect reminder of him on my wrist but I just cant pull the trigger as its not worth the price.
At half price the current RRP I would pull the trigger but not now. I'm hoping Longines make a new dirty dozen to commemorate their WW2 version & I would buy that in an instance if it was priced competitively, value for money wise. Great video as always. Ciao
I absolutely love my M100 ! Been a longstanding Vertex wearer ! Superb !
Fantastic video. Subbed.
Very much enjoyed this. I looked at both the M100A and the M36 in the Vertex boutique and chatted briefly with Don Cochran - top man. I was edging more towards the M100A, but now potentially going to the M36 - decisions, decisions. Yes the price is high, but the quality is definitely up there. CWC were doing the 1980 reissue for similar sort of money, so I’m not sure the price is that bad.
Good afternoon, I am a faithful follower of your channel as a simple hobbyist and lover of watches. Military watches, or rather watches since they were incorporated into the equipment of the different military units as simple and perfect tools, have been the collection that I am most passionate about and capture my list of interests. Regardless of the cost or value of the pieces. I own Casio watches such as our highly appreciated DW-290 and other pieces of much more economic value. I am passionate about the history of military watches and your contributions as an analyst and reviewer are an appreciated source of information and inspiration. There is a British brand that reflects the essence of military watches like no other: CWC. And its legendary RN81 CLEARANCE DIVER AUTOMATIC WATCH is the piece that I would most like you to bring to the channel. Thank you and a hug from Spain.
As someone who has a collection of many , simple dive, professional/sports, and field watches, I've always liked the 'dirty dozen ' group of watches and the design that the British military required . But I never actively sorted out a vintage 1943/4 watch.
I knew of the rebirth of the brand by a family member and liked the version that they produced and their history.
Last year, while visiting Salisbury, I looked in an interesting little antique shop that had a small collection of vintage watches. One of them was a Vertex W.W.W cal.59 .
After having a think about it and looking at the prices of similar ones
I made an offer as it was in good condition for a 70-year-old watch.
I bought it as a gift for myself as it was my last year working full time in London.
It's a great little piece that still keeps good time and from the only UK manufacturers apart from the Swiss movement that produced one of the twelve watches.
Also, they had a factory and office in Hatton Garden, London, which is the same street and a few doors away from where I did my apprenticeship many years ago.
Great show.I may have to buy that
Perfect timing. My one watch now is a 1990 Navy issued CWC G10... on a grey nato. I've had a few Omegas, IWC etc... but this watch is just pure, no nonsense, legible, cool. I love it and would highly recommend. Maybe Mr Bond would dabble a little in CWC
Such a handsome piece. I'm not usually a fan of either smaller watches or field watches, but this looks the absolute business.
You have definitely hit the ground running for the new year - looking forward to the next 12 months of viewing 😊
Love your videos. The consistency of your content quality is really outstanding and Im still excited when I see a new video made by you after these multiple years. Thank you.
I recently chose a British watch, Farer and they brand new field collection, Lomond II, Pembroke and Exmoor, 38mm date pointers, now I chose the Lomond II, nicely made, maybe you could check them out.... I've looked at Vertex in the past, but I find them a bit on the pricey side, history or not....
LOVE Farer, great brand. I reviewed them a few years back, very cool branding, fresh design and use of British history in their naming/inspiration, as your superb choices demonstrate so well. Enjoy and thank you for the comment, excellent contribution.
Best regards,
TGV
Farer is one of my absolute favourites.
Came here to recommend Farer as well. I love what they are doing with color and design. Great choice.
Great video. Thanks. My $.02 is that it's a great watch, quite a bit overpriced. If I recall, there was a bit of marketing gamesmanship when the brand re-launched that put me off. Pity because as a retired military officer myself, the design and quality are very attractive. All the best.
Top quality as always 👌🏾
An excellent video as always!. A few weeks ago, I had retained the Hahnart Preventor HD12!
Great video,and lovely watch!
I think Omega should learn from this.
Just imagining their modern meta grade 8927 manual wind movement,with a 36mm case and dial thats based on the omega dirty dozen,with a signed screwdown crown to complete the package ❤
If enough companies revisited their past and did dirty dozen reissues,it would be a reason to collect them.
Oh I do love that bronze one, what a beauty !
I too have fallen into an absolute stupor with how wonderful Rogue Heroes is. Absolutely wonderful. I think you have a valid point. I have never thought of Omega as a Bond watch. It just isn’t. Vertex would be far superior. I recently picked up a CWC and could easily see either the CWC or Vertex fitting Bond. If it was to stay true to Fleming’s intent, I have a feeling he would wear a Tudor FXD or Pelagos 39. Excellently done as always, my friend. Onward and upward!
Great content as always! Complimenti ❤ Between you and me 😅...I'd rather buy a Seiko 😮❤
Your presentation is very well put together and I enjoy your content. However many WW2 movies are historically inaccurate and painful to watch.
Many? The only accurate one is Europa the final battle. The mainstream historical revisionism, fawning over Churchill and all the rest is such nauseating regime propaganda that people should really see through by now as their country is deliberately subverted.
Awesome Video as always but I cant wait for the review of the new Hanhart Aquasphere xD Thinking about getting one
Thanks for this video, I'm of British and German descent and have been looking for a British field watch to go with the German, Sinn U50 SL I recently purchased and I had no idea this brand even existed, They're definitely on the short list now.
Nice looking watch, except for the lume on the hands having a different hue then the lume on the markers. I own a British Smiths Deluxe A404 from 1953, which I quite fancy. It is 95% identical to the watch that actually summited Everest, and looks quite similar to the Dirty Dozen watches in design.
The Copper one with the British Green dial is a masterclass in... well, class!
Even the pieces of thread on the strap match the vintage look of what I can only call the closest to field-watch perfection.
Also, the combination of colours and materials gives it warmth, as if it were alive. Steampunk spirit at it's brightest.
The Stainless steel isn't bad either, still close to what I envision as the perfect field watch, especially with the micro seconds hand.
The Khaki doesn't even come close to this level of style.
This watch was already a must for me for 2025, but seeing it live on this episode has sealed the deal. The only problem is, now I also want the bronze one!
Excellent use of national treasure Stephen Fry. You can’t boil everything down to cheapest wins. TGV understands value, great video.
Cracking video as always.
The Vertex is lovely but as a family man with a mortgage etc it’s a hard sell when compared to the Hanhart.
I had the M100A 40mm size. It's awesomely great watch. Out of all D12 watches out there, I still feel Vertex makes them the best. They have a specific design aesthetic which really resonates with me.
The 36mm is cool and truer to the vintage model. But, I don't want to deal with the lack of options, if not fiddly operation with the strap screws, to swap out aftermarket strap options of my choice. Also, I appreciate the 40mm has a matching bracelet option. This type of watch probably better on a Nato-style, some other passthrough strap, or 2-pc strap. But, I like to have options including a bracelet when I feel like it. IDK? I may revisit and get another m100a. some day.
Happy New Year sir. Hope you and your family had a great holiday season. Very classy watch from a brand with a super history. As much as I've tried (and I have) I just can't get along with small seconds. However love the fact the design reflects the original. Lovely watch, great video 👍
As always a great show! I was really impressed with the quality when I had it on loan for a week from WG. Yes it is a little pricey - BUT it’s subjective - you can’t deny the history and importance of it as a watch.
Well said and so true, thank you my friend.
Best regards as always,
T.
As a history nerd, I really enjoyed this video ;)
Love that show, love those watches, will get one someday when I give up spending money on motorbikes.
TGV would make an amazing history professor 😊
One of your best
I love watches from that era. I just had the good fortune of acquiring an Omega 2179 in original condition with fantastic patina. It's the civilian issue but I love it to bits nonetheless. I don't know when it was last serviced but it keeps better time than nearly any other watch I own.
👏👏👏 Congrats, pure class!!! Nothing like vintage Omega, enjoy and thank you for sharing,
Best regards,
TGV
Enjoyed that, thanks. Would love a Formex - the M36 bronze/black especially but the MP45 looks fantastic, but both the auto and manual probably much too tall for my liking. All out of my price range though, unfortunately!
As a field watch, I am very happy with my Rangemaster mechanical, thank you very much!
I'm a Cornishman living in London. I also lived and worked across Piemonte, VDA, Lombardia and Veneto for 5 years. Learning the Italian language (and culture) the hard way in my 30s.
So I imagine our idealisation of "Britishness" is similar. It no longer exists as perhaps we would like to perceive it.
(Though the shadow of the 13 colonies is long indeed.)
But I love the perspective here and your reverence for both the brand and Don.
T, Fantastic video as always. I love Vertex Watches (VW) although have yet to own one. Take care. Best as always. Matthew