I just received mine (exactly same as yours! And my name is also Alex, ha ha) few days ago. I did not buy from Ginault directly (hate waiting), so I bought off someone who I can trust. It is absolutely fantastic watch. I must say that it is $5000 watch if this one had some major brand name on it. Even perhaps more! that good! I also own OR2 (GSL, date/cyclop & ceramic bezel) which I truly love. But this is one level up, especially the sapphire bezel is just amazing. Subtle yet super refined. The bezel action even surpasses my OR2 bezel action, more firm, more assuring sound and feel. I have owned a lot of watches in my life time, but never had this kind of great bezel & bezel action. Truly amazing. Mine keeps pretty good time, about minus 2 seconds per day. Of course, I prefer plus 1 or 2 seconds per day, but I can not be that picky, ha ha. And finally, I love the fact that this is 1mm bigger and 1mm plus thinner than OR2. I have 7.35 inch wrist and it fits like an awesome dream! I agree with everything you said and thank you for your detailed and great review, Alex
Just ordered my diver no date. Excited to get it on my wrist. I have a two tone sea dweller, yacht master, omega no time to die, breitling. But excited for this to be my daily wear. Thanks for the review.
I just received my OR2 on Friday I'm waiting for my silent service with date and cyclops to arrive I placed my order at the beginning of March these watches are of the highest quality the build specs and materials are far surpassed even what I had been expecting
Ya know, I was just comparing a ball watch with an omega and thinking about the quality for price difference (and that everybody has a friggin Omega or longines, Rolex…blah. I’m not that kinda guy. I go out of my way NOT to be “that guy”. I grew up as a craftsman in a small family company that values quality as well. I think I’m gonna buy this. F the Swiss tag too. I’ve always bought swiss watches because my heritage is Swiss-German. I’m an American Craftsman first and I like what these guys are doing (also at a fair price). I feel a kinship with them as I try to do the same. Thank you for this review friend, it’s been informative and inspiring. I do think this is the route I’ll be going though. Much appreciated. The Ball road master moon phase was what I had my eye on but maybe this will serve me better. Id seen another review for another model in the past and liked what I saw. Funny to run across this one while researching the Ball. (Fate perhaps) lol. Maybe. Thanks again * (That said, I should admit I own the rest. So I’m not knocking them, just looking for new and different. Something more personal really 👍
Thanks, Alex! I just ordered mine and can’t wait to get it. I have a white Omega SMP300 and this will be an awesome complement. Super excited about the adjustable clasp.
I got mine two days ago (with cyclops) and I absolutely love it. And it's keeping perfect time which I did not expect. Clasp is great, bracelet is nice, lume not awesome but good enough, dial is lovely, etc.
Outstanding review! I agree with everything you’ve said, about the watch, as well as about the supposed “gossip.” I go by the watch my hand. Do I like it for its quality or not? I ordered mine about two weeks ago and can’t wait to get it. If John and his partner are willing to work excessive hours out of their homes to build a great quality watch, I want one! Thanks again for taking your time to put out a great review!
This is the review I have been waiting for!! I own the OR2 and am completely blown away by the quality, it's almost like my Rolex and Tudor BB58 for way less. Really thinking about pulling the trigger on the Silent Service but wanted to see what you think, thanks 🙏
Ya know I noticed someone say they wanted more transparency from Ginault. I mean (i don’t think it’s intentional) I don’t think they’re being purposefully “shady” like they’re hiding something nefarious! Lol 😂 (they make undeniably beautiful watches and sell them at a fair price) there’s not much room to be nefarious (it’s a “known” item, it either is or it isn’t and it’s (right there) lol 🤦🏻♂️. It does illustrate that many consumers are a little dumb though. I can see how logically not all engineers or machinists are savvy with websites. 🤷🏻♂️ They also mentioned they didn’t care if they were made in someone’s home. (I AGREE) I think sometimes people get self conscious about things like that but there is NOOOO reason to. (People are people) this is America! Everybody loves an underdog. I’m sure a LOT of people would LOVE that story! Some guy or group of guys “slugging it out” with the big companies making their beautiful watches by hand? Paying attention to every detail and going above and beyond the overpriced competition! My God you wouldn’t be able to keep them on the shelves! (I don’t care, I’m buying one anyway I’m just saying it from the heart). I love this kinda story. Lol. But yea, it’s something that if you stay quiet (others get to make up the narrative)! Even competition can. So don’t let them, show everyone exactly who you are. (Like that kid that created “cold steel” knives. His brilliance was his transparency. Tell your story, let the chips fall where they may. People might surprise you. Anyway, idk maybe the right person will read this. 👍 just some thoughts. This review was great and I’m studying up on it now. I just thought I’d mention this. (Could help) shut the trolls up too. Lol
I ordered an Ocean Rover II from John at Ginault, $1799.00 USA blue bezel, date with Cyclops, or I could get a rolex for $11,000.00 USD. I bought a Silent service used with the 12 hour bezel ,I will use the bezel to track another time zone, it will be my poor man's GMT. I am wearing a Longines spirit 42mm blue dial, great watch with great Lume, my Omega will be going up for sale.
The watch looks great! But can you tell me what a company GINAULT is? Or is it just one person maybe? Where is the company from? (On the homepage I cannot find any information about this, and I have no good feelings about sending so much money into the space not knowing, who is my party to the contract! - Greetings from Germany. Yours sincerely, Stefan😮
Excellent review Alex! The silent service watch is obviously well made. However, it has the homage feel to it. If I have that kind of money to throw around, I would go for the Oris or Longines. I have a collection of microbrands and established brands. Over time, The established brands provide more satisfaction to me. But that's just me.
I noticed they have one model of the OR2 left for sale. I have a Silent Service on order based on your review. Do you think the OR2 is worth buying at $1500 given the are discontinuing the model? Thanks and great review
It's technically worth $1500 with the specs and build quality but I've never paid full value for them. Given it's the last model, it depends how much you want it. You could also try the social group for Ginault as they have some that pop up there
That’s funny that people care about the bezel teeth. Do Rolex line up perfectly? I care about the alignment of the arrow but not the teeth, personally.
I’m looking at Ginault and Steinhart Ocean One 39mm and after researching both companies I’m going with Steinhart. The Ginault may possibly be better built but I don’t trust Ginault. I went to their web site and there is NO INFORMATION about their brand and history or even where the watches are made, way to much mystery with this company. I would love to see a video where a trusted watch reviewer actually goes to the facility where these watches are made. It is a real shame the Ginault as a brand is so shady. If these watches are made in someone’s home I’m totally good with that, just be honest and open and be proud of the products you are producing.
Thanks for confirming. Do you find that the watch wears too big? Also, the OR2 measure 39mm at the case but 40mm at the bezel (I believe). For the SS measure 41mm at the case or bezel? Sorry for all the questions but your review is by far the most informative. Thanks!
@@ssergi1000 Watch wears great, definitely not too big. Compare it to a Black Bay GMT (which is a 41 also) and this wears much much better on the avg wrist
I honestly have no reason to doubt it. They normally bill the balance and ship out. Given the fact they produce 2 watches per week on avg, I can't see why this would be a "China" outfit. Plus, all the watches ship out from CA.
@@backintimewatches There's a very different connotation between "built" and "supplied". I have NO doubt many of the parts (e.g. case, band) are from China. But if the entire thing is "assembled" in US, with a Swiss movement, and hand finished on the case as I mentioned in the video... they have every right to say "hand built in America"
If you accept the TC story then these are 100% hand assembled in the US. TC was the top US based watchmaker since the rep days. There are a few other US based modders like BK and Kev but TC was a whole other level. Do your research and you will know this is true. Ginault basicy single handedly started this trend and other microbrands are now following, you now see many other micros also doing assembly in the US like Nodus, Vaer, Seaholm just go name a few. If they can call Swiss assembleed watches Swiss Made, why can't we source our own skilled US labor for the same task and be proud of that?
@@peacelove4994 the level of transparency of Ginault is completely different from what other microbrands are doing. We can virtually see photos, clear videos of the workshops (Nodus in the US, Baltic in France, Stowa and Damasko in Germany, CW in the UK). Ginault or TC or whatever you decide to call them, have had more than 10 years in making fake Rolex's, but have never once exposed the workplace where they assemble their Ginault watches. Again, I completely enjoy the quality that Ginault is putting into their watches, but not so much about the work ethic. There are only 2 photos posted on their Instagram account, and they are not verified by anyone apart from themselves stating that the case is manufactured in USA. If they actually own an assembling line based in USA, they would have filmed, recorded, taken every single corner of that place. Just imagine yourself having a legitimate production run in America, would you try to expose and show this level of quality, this professional setup to as many people as you can? Why have "Hand built in America" to cause all the confusion and doubts and dramas?
Piotr I see your comments in almost all Ginault videos. For someone who is against the brand you sure do follow Ginault closely. While I respect your opinion I totally disagree. I think it's a great step towards the positive that someone as talented as TC leaving the rep business and taking his talents to working on the legit side of things. Or you would much rather him continue doing top A level reps?
@@rolexsubcasewearsbettertha9571 No,its just that I subscribed 100 watch channels easily and often comment,not only Ginault😉As to the owner-I would understand if he would made Rolex fakes for short time,like he was young and wanted to get some quick buck,but he was running fully operating international bussiness for quite some time,couple of years,dont remember exactly,but 6-7??I think its possible that he moved to micro,because he was either spotted by Feds or was exposed in internet.Otherwise could be that he would still run fakes production.The fact that he is talented in watch production isnt justifying his criminal past.
@@piotrszmidel I work in corrections with all levels of offenders. People can change. Just because you have a criminal past doesn’t mean you can’t rehabilitate and change for the better. Personally, I love to see the change. Also, my new Silent Service is much nicer than my 3 Black Bays. Truly incredible fit and finish.
@@piotrszmidel how do you know he wasn't young and just wasn't thinking much? And perhaps after a few years of the rep he realized that's not what he wanted? even deepdweller's exposé pointed out TC himself said he doesn't want to be doing reps. Did you read that part? Do you have proof to the claims about Feds? To me that sounds dumb because if that was the case I don't think he'd be heading the micro now right? And if it were true, and the feds are okay with this change, who are we to say no? Do you have proof of him running reps on the side? Note I do research well, and I researched the hell out of the rep forums but there is no source to get TC Subs anymore. It's a fact that rep makers ain't gonna disappear, neither the feds or interpol have anything on them in China. Reps have only morphed into higher and better watch production factories. The market is there, the money is there hence rep will only get bigger and better which is a fact. Having their top watchmaker leaving that game because he doesn't want to do reps and want to produce something on his own is a change we should welcome. Have you thought about perhaps their number 2 guy who saw what TC did and also want to change and make an honest living? And your negative attitude, stifling to say the least.
I just received mine (exactly same as yours! And my name is also Alex, ha ha) few days ago. I did not buy from Ginault directly (hate waiting), so I bought off someone who I can trust. It is absolutely fantastic watch. I must say that it is $5000 watch if this one had some major brand name on it. Even perhaps more! that good!
I also own OR2 (GSL, date/cyclop & ceramic bezel) which I truly love. But this is one level up, especially the sapphire bezel is just amazing. Subtle yet super refined. The bezel action even surpasses my OR2 bezel action, more firm, more assuring sound and feel. I have owned a lot of watches in my life time, but never had this kind of great bezel & bezel action. Truly amazing.
Mine keeps pretty good time, about minus 2 seconds per day. Of course, I prefer plus 1 or 2 seconds per day, but I can not be that picky, ha ha.
And finally, I love the fact that this is 1mm bigger and 1mm plus thinner than OR2. I have 7.35 inch wrist and it fits like an awesome dream!
I agree with everything you said and thank you for your detailed and great review, Alex
Glad you're enjoying it! Great name btw 😏
Amazing review! Bravo!
Just ordered my diver no date. Excited to get it on my wrist. I have a two tone sea dweller, yacht master, omega no time to die, breitling. But excited for this to be my daily wear. Thanks for the review.
I just received my OR2 on Friday I'm waiting for my silent service with date and cyclops to arrive I placed my order at the beginning of March these watches are of the highest quality the build specs and materials are far surpassed even what I had been expecting
Can’t wait for mine to show up!
Ya know, I was just comparing a ball watch with an omega and thinking about the quality for price difference (and that everybody has a friggin Omega or longines, Rolex…blah. I’m not that kinda guy. I go out of my way NOT to be “that guy”. I grew up as a craftsman in a small family company that values quality as well. I think I’m gonna buy this. F the Swiss tag too. I’ve always bought swiss watches because my heritage is Swiss-German. I’m an American Craftsman first and I like what these guys are doing (also at a fair price). I feel a kinship with them as I try to do the same. Thank you for this review friend, it’s been informative and inspiring. I do think this is the route I’ll be going though. Much appreciated. The Ball road master moon phase was what I had my eye on but maybe this will serve me better. Id seen another review for another model in the past and liked what I saw. Funny to run across this one while researching the Ball. (Fate perhaps) lol. Maybe. Thanks again
* (That said, I should admit I own the rest. So I’m not knocking them, just looking for new and different. Something more personal really 👍
Have the OR2. And was really excited for this. Just wished they carried over the gorgeous enamel dial.
Thanks, Alex! I just ordered mine and can’t wait to get it. I have a white Omega SMP300 and this will be an awesome complement. Super excited about the adjustable clasp.
I got mine two days ago (with cyclops) and I absolutely love it. And it's keeping perfect time which I did not expect. Clasp is great, bracelet is nice, lume not awesome but good enough, dial is lovely, etc.
Outstanding review! I agree with everything you’ve said, about the watch, as well as about the supposed “gossip.” I go by the watch my hand. Do I like it for its quality or not?
I ordered mine about two weeks ago and can’t wait to get it. If John and his partner are willing to work excessive hours out of their homes to build a great quality watch, I want one!
Thanks again for taking your time to put out a great review!
This is the review I have been waiting for!! I own the OR2 and am completely blown away by the quality, it's almost like my Rolex and Tudor BB58 for way less. Really thinking about pulling the trigger on the Silent Service but wanted to see what you think, thanks 🙏
These are pretty nice 😎I need to pick one up at some point
I’ve been looking at this and you may have just pushed me over the edge!!! And thanks for the great review.
Honestly you won't be disappointed. I don't have a vested interest, I just love the watches. Enjoy!
nice review thanks Alex
Ya know I noticed someone say they wanted more transparency from Ginault. I mean (i don’t think it’s intentional) I don’t think they’re being purposefully “shady” like they’re hiding something nefarious! Lol 😂 (they make undeniably beautiful watches and sell them at a fair price) there’s not much room to be nefarious (it’s a “known” item, it either is or it isn’t and it’s (right there) lol 🤦🏻♂️. It does illustrate that many consumers are a little dumb though. I can see how logically not all engineers or machinists are savvy with websites. 🤷🏻♂️ They also mentioned they didn’t care if they were made in someone’s home. (I AGREE) I think sometimes people get self conscious about things like that but there is NOOOO reason to. (People are people) this is America! Everybody loves an underdog. I’m sure a LOT of people would LOVE that story! Some guy or group of guys “slugging it out” with the big companies making their beautiful watches by hand? Paying attention to every detail and going above and beyond the overpriced competition! My God you wouldn’t be able to keep them on the shelves! (I don’t care, I’m buying one anyway I’m just saying it from the heart). I love this kinda story. Lol. But yea, it’s something that if you stay quiet (others get to make up the narrative)! Even competition can. So don’t let them, show everyone exactly who you are. (Like that kid that created “cold steel” knives. His brilliance was his transparency. Tell your story, let the chips fall where they may. People might surprise you. Anyway, idk maybe the right person will read this. 👍 just some thoughts. This review was great and I’m studying up on it now. I just thought I’d mention this. (Could help) shut the trolls up too. Lol
Superb review again Alex. Can’t wait for mine to arrive.
Enjoy! It's quite amazing, as you would expect
@@AlexFleck81 I've got Rolex and Omega's but this is my favourite watch maker - just can't beat the quality/value proposition.
Love my Ocean Rover
I ordered an Ocean Rover II from John at Ginault, $1799.00 USA blue bezel, date with Cyclops, or I could get a rolex for $11,000.00 USD. I bought a Silent service used with the 12 hour bezel ,I will use the bezel to track another time zone, it will be my poor man's GMT. I am wearing a Longines spirit 42mm blue dial, great watch with great Lume, my Omega will be going up for sale.
You should put a link in the description ma man.
Try Loctite 222 (purple) on the screws.
The watch looks great! But can you tell me what a company GINAULT is? Or is it just one person maybe? Where is the company from? (On the homepage I cannot find any information about this, and I have no good feelings about sending so much money into the space not knowing, who is my party to the contract! - Greetings from Germany. Yours sincerely, Stefan😮
Alex! Great video… in depth and covering all bases. Why the horrid background music though? Awful and adds nothing to your comments.
What’s this guy’s website? Can’t seem to find John.
I like the original OR1 better with a ceramic bezel swap can't be beat
Excellent review Alex! The silent service watch is obviously well made. However, it has the homage feel to it. If I have that kind of money to throw around, I would go for the Oris or Longines. I have a collection of microbrands and established brands. Over time, The established brands provide more satisfaction to me. But that's just me.
I noticed they have one model of the OR2 left for sale. I have a Silent Service on order based on your review. Do you think the OR2 is worth buying at $1500 given the are discontinuing the model? Thanks and great review
It's technically worth $1500 with the specs and build quality but I've never paid full value for them. Given it's the last model, it depends how much you want it. You could also try the social group for Ginault as they have some that pop up there
When John first started selling the OR1 he offered a great discount wouldn't hurt to email and ask if there are any discounts offered.
That’s funny that people care about the bezel teeth. Do Rolex line up perfectly? I care about the alignment of the arrow but not the teeth, personally.
I like the watch, I just don't love the hands for a tool watch. They are not clearly different enough for hour and minute quick looks.
Do they size the bracelet for you when you order? I didn't see any option for sizing on their site.
No, they do not. But they send you the screwdriver and it's a screw pin bracelet so very very easy to resize
What is your wrist size?
It’s basically a Rolex super clone bracelet without saying it
I’m looking at Ginault and Steinhart Ocean One 39mm and after researching both companies I’m going with Steinhart. The Ginault may possibly be better built but I don’t trust Ginault. I went to their web site and there is NO INFORMATION about their brand and history or even where the watches are made, way to much mystery with this company. I would love to see a video where a trusted watch reviewer actually goes to the facility where these watches are made. It is a real shame the Ginault as a brand is so shady. If these watches are made in someone’s home I’m totally good with that, just be honest and open and be proud of the products you are producing.
Lol
whats ur wrist size Alex? 6.5?
Alex, can you confirm your wrist size? Love this watch, mine should be arriving any day now!
@@ssergi1000 7.25 on average (depends how many wrist curls I've done 😂)
7.25 - my wrist is thin from the top view
Thanks for confirming. Do you find that the watch wears too big?
Also, the OR2 measure 39mm at the case but 40mm at the bezel (I believe). For the SS measure 41mm at the case or bezel?
Sorry for all the questions but your review is by far the most informative.
Thanks!
@@ssergi1000 Watch wears great, definitely not too big. Compare it to a Black Bay GMT (which is a 41 also) and this wears much much better on the avg wrist
okay aside from the great quality, I get it, but do people still believe that these are hand built in the US???
I guess they can play with the term “hand built in USA” as much as any other watchmaker can play with the term “Swiss made” 🤷♂️
I honestly have no reason to doubt it. They normally bill the balance and ship out. Given the fact they produce 2 watches per week on avg, I can't see why this would be a "China" outfit. Plus, all the watches ship out from CA.
@@backintimewatches There's a very different connotation between "built" and "supplied". I have NO doubt many of the parts (e.g. case, band) are from China. But if the entire thing is "assembled" in US, with a Swiss movement, and hand finished on the case as I mentioned in the video... they have every right to say "hand built in America"
If you accept the TC story then these are 100% hand assembled in the US. TC was the top US based watchmaker since the rep days. There are a few other US based modders like BK and Kev but TC was a whole other level. Do your research and you will know this is true.
Ginault basicy single handedly started this trend and other microbrands are now following, you now see many other micros also doing assembly in the US like Nodus, Vaer, Seaholm just go name a few. If they can call Swiss assembleed watches Swiss Made, why can't we source our own skilled US labor for the same task and be proud of that?
@@peacelove4994 the level of transparency of Ginault is completely different from what other microbrands are doing. We can virtually see photos, clear videos of the workshops (Nodus in the US, Baltic in France, Stowa and Damasko in Germany, CW in the UK). Ginault or TC or whatever you decide to call them, have had more than 10 years in making fake Rolex's, but have never once exposed the workplace where they assemble their Ginault watches. Again, I completely enjoy the quality that Ginault is putting into their watches, but not so much about the work ethic. There are only 2 photos posted on their Instagram account, and they are not verified by anyone apart from themselves stating that the case is manufactured in USA.
If they actually own an assembling line based in USA, they would have filmed, recorded, taken every single corner of that place. Just imagine yourself having a legitimate production run in America, would you try to expose and show this level of quality, this professional setup to as many people as you can? Why have "Hand built in America" to cause all the confusion and doubts and dramas?
Despite the owner being shifty 😎 I would consider risking it if not for all the text on the dial.
KINETIC CONTINUOUS DATE 🤔
SUBMERSIBLE MARITIME 🤔
We need more writing on the dial😜Plus the owner should be in jail,not lead a microbrand
Why?
Piotr I see your comments in almost all Ginault videos. For someone who is against the brand you sure do follow Ginault closely. While I respect your opinion I totally disagree. I think it's a great step towards the positive that someone as talented as TC leaving the rep business and taking his talents to working on the legit side of things. Or you would much rather him continue doing top A level reps?
@@rolexsubcasewearsbettertha9571 No,its just that I subscribed 100 watch channels easily and often comment,not only Ginault😉As to the owner-I would understand if he would made Rolex fakes for short time,like he was young and wanted to get some quick buck,but he was running fully operating international bussiness for quite some time,couple of years,dont remember exactly,but 6-7??I think its possible that he moved to micro,because he was either spotted by Feds or was exposed in internet.Otherwise could be that he would still run fakes production.The fact that he is talented in watch production isnt justifying his criminal past.
@@piotrszmidel I work in corrections with all levels of offenders. People can change. Just because you have a criminal past doesn’t mean you can’t rehabilitate and change for the better.
Personally, I love to see the change. Also, my new Silent Service is much nicer than my 3 Black Bays. Truly incredible fit and finish.
@@piotrszmidel how do you know he wasn't young and just wasn't thinking much? And perhaps after a few years of the rep he realized that's not what he wanted? even deepdweller's exposé pointed out TC himself said he doesn't want to be doing reps. Did you read that part?
Do you have proof to the claims about Feds? To me that sounds dumb because if that was the case I don't think he'd be heading the micro now right? And if it were true, and the feds are okay with this change, who are we to say no?
Do you have proof of him running reps on the side? Note I do research well, and I researched the hell out of the rep forums but there is no source to get TC Subs anymore.
It's a fact that rep makers ain't gonna disappear, neither the feds or interpol have anything on them in China. Reps have only morphed into higher and better watch production factories. The market is there, the money is there hence rep will only get bigger and better which is a fact. Having their top watchmaker leaving that game because he doesn't want to do reps and want to produce something on his own is a change we should welcome.
Have you thought about perhaps their number 2 guy who saw what TC did and also want to change and make an honest living? And your negative attitude, stifling to say the least.