Me too, Gary! 🥲 I didn’t expect to like the watch so much, so thought I’d save the money. But I regret that choice. I’m loving the Duro! It wasn’t that much more expensive, I should have gone with sapphire! 💯
The nato is great in hot, humid weather, the metal will not be as comfortable. You can definitely make mistakes, changing the crystal, not sure I'd recommend that for everyone, I messed up a date window by putting the stem back in behind where it goes. Before you do it really ask yourself if its going to make that much difference, or you can wait until your min. glass is really scratched, which will be quite a while.
You make a great point Bill 👌 Before I got the more expensive “screw down” watch press, I was using the much cheaper “spring press”. I can vouch through experience that it is easy to make mistakes, and that these mods are not for everyone! (I ruined a critical lens gasket using this inferior press - there’s a video explaining that story here - ruclips.net/video/2aOoJ15paiA/видео.html ) There’s so much to consider with these mods. As you mentioned - is the risk worth the marginal benefit? And as I discovered, is the cost of the tools to do it right worth the benefit? Will you be using the tool enough to offset its costs? 🤔 Thanks for weighing in with this well thought out, and very logical take, Bill! 🙏
Much easier to tell the time at a quick glance with an analog watch. Far easier to see the position of the hands to tell time in lower light conditions with analog watch (especially if normally wear glasses but don’t have them on).
@@howardlo65 Hi Howard! 👋 I appreciate you weighing in with this viewpoint. Thank you! 🙏 Personally, I disagree with the first part - a digital time is clear and precise, ready to be read aloud, without any processing required. I do agree with your next point, that in low light conditions, an analog watch with lume would be easier at a glance since you wouldn’t have to press a backlight button 👌 There are certain models of digital watches which will auto-illuminate the backlight as your wrist is raised, which is pretty cool! 😁 I do wear glasses, but don’t personally have issues reading the time with them off. I know many people would, though! Thanks again for your input my man. 🤝
The blue AR is anti reflective coating. Should make the watch more legible outside on sunny days. I would have definitely paid the extra money for the sapphire crystal though. Its well worth the upgrade. You can also get great quality steel bracelets for these online. Long Island watch makes a nice one.
The AR coating is such a cool addition for sunny days, and looks spectacular too. 🤩 Oh man, I couldn't agree more! I wish I could go back and have ordered the Sapphire Crystal for the additional scratch protection! It wasn't even much more expensive anyway 😅 Awesome! Thank you for the recommendations, Rocco! 🙏
I'm glad you highlighted some digital vs analogue points because I have been into watches for over 30 years and I've come full circle back to digital watches because of those reasons. I wear a digital Casio every day and I love them. I have some fairly expensive automatic analogue watches which I wear occasionally but the basic Casios and G-shocks are easy to throw on and use reliably, all day, every day.
Thank you, Matt. 🙏 It's refreshing to hear that this resonated with you - I did have a few others mention that it was an unfair comparison, which I can also understand. But from my point of view, I completely stand by what I said! 😁 These features are real considerations when deciding which watch to wear, right? Nice one. Interesting to hear you've come full circle! Cheers for weighing in! 🍻
@@goatreviews I have to admit 15 years ago when I was deep into mechanical watches I would've thought very differently. I get where those enthusiasts are coming from because I was one but the truth is what we think is cool changes over time and sometimes cool AND useable/convenient comes into play.
Cheers Colin! 🙏 It does look pretty mint, right? 👌 You’re so right - I just got back from volleyball wearing the NATO Strap and it was very comfy indeed 🤩
Really like this format. Straightforward and simple with a bit of humor. ❤ Tired of all the macro shots and pretentious nonsense from the majority of the RUclipsrs out there.
I have the entire Duro collection (7 variations) It's the only watch model of which I have all the variations... thanks to its low price... except for the one with the white dial 😀 which is now expensive when you can find it! (often second-hand)
That’s INSANE! 🤯🤩 You’re a lucky man 👌 Which colourway is you favourite to wear? And have you done any strap changes or anything? Incredible - I’d never heard of the elusive white Duro 👀
@@goatreviews Only the black still with the original strap (my first Duro) .. all others are with metal bracelet like yours My prefered dial is the Duro blue !! and from collector point of view .. the white of course 😀
I love this mod! The rounded blue crystal and the Steele bracelet. Wow! Beautiful. I am going to do this mod with mine. I did not care for the NATO strap. I can see the practicality of one of if I was a diver..but they always make watches look bulky. Great video!
I received this one days ago. I'm like you: more a digital watch guy but... I can't take it off! Like literally, I just want to wear it and only it. Even if it has flaws: rubber band not great, lume not great, and the bezel action on mine is stiff, it's even getting harder and harder to use it.
Awesome! It’s the perfect stepping stone into Analog, right?! 😁 I feel you 💯 It’s a truly enthralling watch 👀 Ah man, sorry to hear about the bezel action! What do you think might have caused that?
Thank you, my dude! 🙌 It's a stunning upgrade. While I have not been able to submerge it to 200m, I have worn this in the shower many times since the upgrade. I suspect that since the original lens was only 'Press fit' into the housing, and the new lens was pressed in with a similar amount of pressure, that it is still waterproof. Probably not up to 200m though! 😄 Hope this helps! 🙏
The value… it’s absolutely incredible right? Casio just does it best. Yes sir! 🙌 Really glad you enjoyed the upgrades - it really kicks it up a notch and I’m so happy with it. You won’t regret it! 🤩
I noticed on some older videos that the Casio Duro models they were reviewing had snap on cases. These videos were not that far back. No more than 6 months or so ago. I would make sure that the Casio Duro I ordered had the screw on case back. A snap on case back is a bad idea. Screw on case back is what you need.
G’day Glen, thanks for sharing this. 🙏 That’s incredibly interesting! I’m trying to visualise what a snap on case would even look like. Was it definitely the Casio MDV-106? I’d love to see one of the videos if you track it down! 👀
@@goatreviews These videos showed up in my feed from well-known watch reviewers. This information would be easy to find. You know, those pros and cons videos? The watches were described as Casio Duro, 36mm wide. These reviewers mentioned that these watches were not easy to source at the time.
Hey goatreviews, thanks for this. You have made me less hesitant to mod my Duro. I thought your content, presentation, transparency in the "oops" category and overall value of the review to be excellent! I definitely want to replace my crystal with a sapphire crystal and with a magnified date bubble. That may be a bit more difficult to install due to the date placement. LOVE the steel bracelet. That to me takes this $50 watch and makes it look like a $500 watch. I replace the original one with a Wellfit 22mm Black band that I already had. To me, it upgrades the appearance moving it from the "dive" look. So, just depends what you want. Thank you again.
Yo, I very much appreciate your helpful feedback, Deadonit! ❤ It's important for me to leave the 'Oops' in to paint an accurate picture of the modding experience. Lining up the Date Window might make it trickier! But it would be worth the effort for that payoff 🤩 Agreed, the bracelet is a MASSIVE game changer. Nice one! Sounds amazing. 👌 Thanks so much for weighing in! 🙏
It really is, right? It’s simply impossible for other dive watches to compare to the features and quality for this price point. I place an incredible emphasis on “Value” with my purchases, so I reckon I’ll be a Casio customer for life 👌😁
Damn, I just looked up the movement @@rsg5850! 🤩 What do you reckon though - Would a module swap be possible, and would the effort be worth the payoff in your opinion? 🤔
Comparing an analog watch to a digital is not a fair comparison, things you list as negatives on the analog have always been true of most all analogs, but sometimes you want the look of an analog, especially if youre old enough to remember when ALL watches were analog--lol I have two Casio Duro's in gold and black and I love them - but I do like my digital watches also, just depends on my mood and use case.
Some great points, Yambo! 💯 I couldn’t agree more. It’s not really a fair comparison. To clarify, I really mean that these are the considerations going through my head when I’m deciding what I might wear for the day. There really is a time and place for each, right? 😁 Glad to hear you’re enjoying your gold Duro’s, and some digitals too! 👌 Thanks for weighing in. 🙏
I corrected my initial comment, when I said "remember when ALL watches were digital" I should have said "analog" -- I do agree with you on the point of a digital watch being more instantly readable with a backlight. I like luminescent dials but I also think whats the point, if you have to hit it with a light to illuminate it you might as well just read the watch with a flashlight and be done with it--lol I guess since im older and grew up with all analog watches early in life I still have a soft spot for analog dials my uncles and so used to wear so I kinda defend them, but I have to admit today same as you I find the digital watches especially ones with larger digits such as a Casio 217H easier to read especially in dark or low light conditions - the only analog watch I know of that addresses this readability issue is a watch like the Timex indiglo which lights up the entire dial when you press the crown - now thats one easily readable analog watch-! what you cant deny is the amount of functionality and readability of a digital watch - yet so many are still drawn to them, could it be they are looked at as a kind of art piece-??
I really respect your ability to reflect, and adjust your initial viewpoint, @yambo59 . 🙏 I agree on the luminescent dials! The whole idea is that it doesn’t need to be charged up as needed 😆 It sounds like you have some fond memories with the analog watches. Nostalgia can be extremely powerful! Awesome - thanks for sharing this recommendation! 🙏 The Timex Indiglow is HOW IT SHOULD BE DONE! 🤩 To answer your question, absolutely! There’s definitely people who consider them ‘art pieces’. It’s something to be appreciated, and also a way for people to express themselves. I feel the same way about Digital Watches! As well as things like the intricacies of mechanical movements, I imagine there’s even more factors experienced by those who truly appreciate Analog Watches that I’m simply not familiar with. 😁
I have both the Duro and the GD350. The vibe alarm on the GD350 is a godsend as I am hard of hearing. That being said, def love the metal bracelet and the lens mod. Really kicks the Duro up to a more premium watch. Earned yourself a new sub!
Great stuff, Stav! 🙏 These are both some incredible watches. Yes, the GD-350 is one of my absolute FAV'S! 🤩 Thanks for your viewership, and Welcome aboard! 🤝
Great question, Jaca 👌 When I removed the original lens, I realised that there was no “seal” around it. It was merely pressed in, with a high level of precision to seal out the water (which can apparently handle 200m!) While I doubt that this replacement lens is as precise as Casio’s original, it was a very snug fit, and I haven’t noticed any water leaks since I’ve been using it. I’m pretty confident this thing is very water tight! 😁👌 Hope this helps! 🙏
Firstly as a Boomer, I really feel your pain having to read an analog dial. Secondly, to actually manually rotate a bezel to time your steak cooking? My god man, the worlds gone mad!😵💫😱🤣 I’ve had a Duro for a couple of years & did the same mod to the crystal, but went sapphire!🤩 I’ve looked at that bracelet but have swapped the old one with a FKM rubber strap. I just received the AE-1500 on Friday & love it. I wouldn’t go for the other model simply because I think it looks really cheap. And it just doesn’t look as nice as the original issue. Good review of the Duro. A poor man’s Rolex Submariner.
@@andrewd7586 Haha, I know what you mean. Yeah, the sapphire wasn’t much more expensive, I wish I went with that option now. Glad to hear you’re enjoying your AE-1500! 🙌 Thanks man. I appreciate your input, Andrew! 🙏
The metal bracelet easily looks the best! How did you manage to mangle the split pin? Trying to pull out the screw-down crown had me laughing loads in the other video. Love that you show the good, the bad and the fubar!
I'm digging the bracelet too, PickAny! 👌I swapped to the Zulu strap for my Volleyball games this week, but have now just swapped back to the Metal clasp. re-installing the metal clasp each time can be finicky, so I reckon I'll leave it on and use other watches for sports for now 😄 I'm glad my buffoonery was entertaining for you, my man! 🤣 Thanks for weighing in! 🙏
Oops, forgot to address how I mangled the split pin! 🧷 So what happened is I tried to use the springbar removal tool on from the WRONG side of the bracelet! So it started ejecting the wrong way, and then get jammed halfway. I had trouble getting it to go back through the correct way, so I decided to just rip it out with force (I was excited to complete the build, and knew I wouldn’t need it anyway since I was removing so many links 😅) 🔗
@@goatreviews Coincidentally, I'm wearing mine as I type. :) Great display, super visible, nice big buttons (which I've NEVER hit them on anything) and, this is nitpicky, the light button is on the top right, which I prefer. :)I was looking for a watch to wear at night in dark situations that was easy to read with a good light and this checked all the boxes. And it's comfy, too, for the size.
Good stuff, Mark! 👌 Which colourways did you go with? Given how much I’m loving this Duro, I’m wishing I spent a little more on going with the Sapphire option, too!
That replacement lens with the blue hew is very cool, but since I only paid $55 for the watch, I'm wondering how much that particular upgrade costs? As for the strap, I went with a blue Ritche Military Ballistic Nylon Watch Strap. For $17 on Amazon, it's a great match for the blue Duro.
I resonate with this viewpoint, KMO! 😁👌 When the costs of the upgrades start approaching the entire watch, you have to start asking questions. The lens cost me less than the price of that ballistic Nylon strap you mentioned) which sounds awesome by the way!) I’ve linked it in the description, and it should still be available. Keep in mind you would need a watch press to perform this mod!
No worries,@@kmo9219! 👌 Hope you enjoy it. If you’d like to share pics of your finished build when finished, feel free to do so in our Discord Channel 😁
@@MikeHolman Would you be able to put the name of the seller and how they called their product in a comment? I should be able to find the bracelet based on that info
Hi @pogonoforysci , here is the compatible bracelet with the Marlin logo: geni.us/MARLIN Thanks for alerting me that the link needs updating - they must be selling out fast 😁🙏
you cannot bo back with the 'timer' because its for decompresion.. its a diving watch.. as you need to decompress for lets say 10 minutes from 35m dive (just an example) then you set it up, and wait , if somethign happens and you bump the watch by accident the timer will add rather than substract. so that the diver life is not in danger in case he would leave decompression depth too early. No one is using this sort of function anyway as divers have dive computers.. but its a good back up method. Thats why it only spins one way.
Great Video and mods. I would have gone the sapphire rout, but other than that I think you did a great job for being your first mod on an analog watch, and you had all the tools needed ( I hate it when someone uploads a mod video and don't have the necessary tools at hand, gives us mortals a false idea of how to go about the mod). The watch looks great on your wrist, the size looks perfect, not too large. Will be waiting for the upcoming mods. Preference: I always favor the steel bracelet before leather or nylon bands, but like to mix it up afterwards (have lots of natos, leather bands and bracelets for my watches, can't help it, hahaha) Best regards
Thank you kindly, Jorge! 🙏 Man, I totally feel you on that… I wish I’d gone Sapphire too, now! 💎 It wasn’t that much more expensive 🥲 I appreciate it! It feels satisfying to have the right tools for the job. I’m really pleased I decided to get the screw down watch press for my MR-G build, well worth the investment! 😁 Good stuff. I’m undecided on preference at the moment! I took off the metal to wear the nylon band to volleyball, and really enjoyed the look and feel of it 👌 I reckon I’ll be swapping back to the metal Marlin clasp so I have some variety for other occasions though! 😉
I’ve got the same bracelet on my Duro but recently replaced the clasp coz old one was too bulky and not comfortable to wear with long sleeves. Want to upgrade my Duro with sapphire crystal with magnifier and change watch hands.
Interesting. Thanks for sharing! 🙏 That sounds like a cool idea, Frank! I'd love to see the results. 🤩 Feel free to come and share it in the Discord when you're done, or if you need any help 😄
Thanks for noticing, American! 🇺🇸🙏 You know, I’d already picked the song and edited it in, and it wasn’t until after publishing I realised that there is a faint ‘ticking noise’ right as the watch gets assembled. It couldn’t have been any more perfect! 😁👌
Seems like a lot of what you didn't like, or know about this watch, as well as the thing you broke, could've been avoided in a pretty shallow dive on RUclips first. Even before you bought the watch. It's been around a while, and modded to death. Did you need a manual more than a smartphone? I put HOURS in on stuff before I add anything to a shopping cart. The Duro's a FANTASTIC watch for the price. Like you said, your just an lcd guy. Simple and easy. The Duro is for the romantics. Cheers.
Some valid critique, JMR. Thank you - I appreciate the honest feedback. 🙏 To address the points about prior research: 1. Researching the Watch - I deliberately didn’t watch any unboxing videos of this watch. I genuinely prefer to “go in blind” so I’m intrigued and excited during my openings. 😁 2. Researching the Mod - I did watch a video about how to remove the crown, which I even had open for reference during recording! Unfortunately it was not sufficiently clear which part or the module to press down on, and so I misunderstood, as you saw. I’ve tried to make my video a little more clear on exactly which part to press! You’re absolutely right, I’m more of a Digital Watch guy 😂💯 I do still love this watch though! 🤩 Thanks for weighing in! 👌
G’day Reh! 👋 Negative, I haven’t had a chance to unbox the AE-1500 yet. It’s been in a couple of community polls for #WatchOfTheWeek, but so far it hasn’t won the popular vote. Don’t worry, I’ll include it in an upcoming poll 😉
Just saw your video on Casio Duro and crystal swap. Nice job. Since you bought the tools, I don't want to as I have too many. Do you perform crystal swaps. Also can I get that done locally. You are probably half way around the globe. I'm in Arizona.
Thanks, Joe! I appreciate it. 🙏 Fair call! It can be quite pricey for a watch press, especially if it’s for a once off. Even I was reluctant to get mine! So now I’m trying to get my usage out of it 😁 Cool idea! I could potentially perform a crystal swap if the parts were sent - it’s not something I’ve considered before! 🤔 I’m in Australia so postage may be expensive. My advise would be to call your local watch repair store, and see if they could so a lens swap, and see if the price is reasonable! Otherwise let me know and I’ll see if I can help 😁
Great review mate, its a common question with this watch but what is the size of your wrist? Im sitting at about 17cm and im worried itll be too big due to the lug to lug 😞
Like you, I definitely prefer to wear a digital watch as I find them easier to read, especially with the sensible 24h notation. Along with many digital watches having better features, I especially like the DB-36 for using it's extra buttons to make the operation smoother. But I have found that large analogue dials with minute markers are amazing for longer public transit trips. This as the sweeping hands are amazing for quickly gauging durations and estimating how much time you have to make a trip. That NATO strap is gorgeous, the brand I usually go with has lighter hardware, which while being more comfortable also looks cheaper. The metal bracelet looks great but seems too shiny for this Duro, which benefits from a black contrasting strap more. And the "marlin" is actually a sailfish, personally I also think of the 3D-printer firmware when I hear Marlin so I prefer the name Duro.
That’s the way, Wyvern! 🙌😁 Woah! I’d never heard of the DB-36 before, that’s really cool. What kind of functionality does “forward” and “reverse” achieve on the watch? I know what you mean about the hardware - it’s one of the reasons I chose these nice and thick-buckled “Zulu” straps. In my opinion they look better, and are surely more durable. Haha, I know right? While it ain’t technically a Marlin, IMO the nickname appears to have stuck already 😂 Duro sounds good too 🙏
@@goatreviews "forward" and "reverse" are your usual up and down for changing numbers or scrolling through the phonebook or alarms. In the time screen they also temporarily show the second timezone or last viewed phone number while pressed, which is very useful. Aside from setting they are useless in the stopwatch and timer mode, where it works like a normal, older Casio (no auto-repeat). Left and right change which field you are editing, this is per digit and you can go back, set is dedicated to exiting and light to the backlight (though on the DBC-32D it has more tacked-on features).
@@WyvernDotRed incredible! That’s more useful than I’d imagined TBH. It would be cool to see this feature expanded to its full potential in upcoming releases!
@@izzyroses242 no problem! 😁 Hmmm, it wasn’t something I’d considered. I do have some lume powder, so it may be possible! Although My initial reaction is that I feel it would be a VERY precise job to keep it looking clean. I’ll keep this in mind though - thanks for the suggestion! 🙏
I have 6.5 inch wrist size and strong crush on casio duro mdv 106 😍 should i have to order it or not because once it's arrived I can't return it please reply please 🙏
Haha, it's a strong urge for such a beautiful watch, isn't it Aditya? 😁 I have a similar wrist size - and am very happy with mine, especially after the mods! It's a very versatile watch. 🤩 It's up to you, my friend. Think about how much it costs, and whether you will get that much usage out of it to justify it. Best of luck with your decision! 🤞
Great question, Aras 🙏 While I don’t have the testing apparatus to verify this, I’m fairly confident that the water rating wouldn’t have been affected. The lens is press-fitted in the same way as the original, and I was sure to use silicone grease on the O-ring when re-sealing the case back 😃
Oh man, that sucks! How long did you own it for? Potentially it was the Salt Water, as I haven’t noticed any rust on mine from normal tap water. I’ll keep an eye out! 👀 Thanks for sharing your experience with us 🙏
Great question! 👌 I suspect that since the original lens was press-fit into the bezel, then the new lens I added should be just as water-tight. I've had showers with it since then without issue, and I doubt I'll ever be in deep enough water to find out 😁
Thank you for advising me this, @over2seeyer ! 🙏 I have just been in contact with another seller to confirm they have a Marlin strap available. I have updated it in the description, and the comment above. Here's the new link: geni.us/MARLIN
Hahaha, good pickup, GottaGeek! 👌🙏 I couldn’t agree more. I know personally I’m just ‘rolling with it’, as it’s what everyone else calls it 😅 I imagine many others are the same - they just hear what’s caught on and have perpetuated the incorrect terminology 😜 I’d love to know where it started, too!
Hi Matteus! 👋 I don’t know for sure. What I do know is that the original lens was just “press-fitted” into the housing, without any rubber gasket or seal apparent when I removed it. For the new lens, I simply press-fit it in the same way. I imagine that the size wouldn’t be as precise as the original, so perhaps there wouldn’t be the full 200m of water resist any more. Hope this helps! 🙏
I appreciate the correction, Cannedeals! 🙏 Is the difference between a Zulu and a NATO Strap based on the material, or buckle style perhaps? Woah, I’d love to hear the technique to reducing the spring bar tension, too, if you wouldn’t mind sharing 🤩👂 Thanks in advance! 🙏
Typically zulus have thicker nylon than natos. Typically Zulus have rounder and thicker hardware than natos. Aswell on the end of the understrap natos have 1 ring, where as zulus have 2 rings. For strain/tension release you thread the main strap through both rings at the end of the understrap, then you fold the mainstrap up and through the first ring from the bottom and back over. This means when putting the watch on tight, the pressure does not travel to the part of the strap holding the watch.
This is such valuable information, @@cannedeals! That’s the best explanation I’ve heard to tell the differences. I appreciate it - and now I won’t be confused any longer 😁 Incredible! I’ll give this technique a try. Thank you so much for your insights! 🙏🫡
Haha, you know it Purple Cat! 🙏 I do have plans to Hydro mod this watch! 🤫 I’m hearing that I might need a new silicone oil though? The one I have might be too thick. Either way, I can tell it’s going to be a messy one when attaching the case back 😂
Yeah dive watches are not the same as digital watches as far as the dive bezel goes. The duro is a dive watch not a fashion watch. I modded both of my Duros but with sapphire crystals and various solid link stainless steel bracelets. Much better wrist presence.
Yep, I feel that, Mike! 👌 It’s not really a fair comparison - It’s mainly my thought process when deciding what to wear. Good stuff!! I regret going mineral instead of Sapphire, it wouldn’t have been much more expensive to go all the way 🥲💎 Thanks for weighing in, man! 🙏
Fair call, my man! 👌 I have found the domed Crystal to add a really cool aesthetic, though I haven't noticed any annoyances with the viewing angles. I imagine any of these will be cleared up when I eventually Hydro Mod this watch too! 😉
Most comparisons are pointless, they are two different concept and functions. The duro is a tool watch and has a unique lure like all mechanical watches
I totally feel that - it wasn’t necessarily a ‘fair comparison’. These are merely the considerations that run through my mind when deciding which watch to wear! Thanks for weighing in, Andream! 🙏
Thanks so much for weighing in with this suggestion, Richard! 🙏 I reckon I will eventually get an automatic mechanical watch at some point! 👌 One day... Right now I'm still feeling the appeal of digital 🤩
Great points, Owls 🦉👌 These are things I’m not personally proficient at… BUT!… like most things in life, I imagine that it comes down to practice, and familiarity to make these skills both possible, and even fluent! 😁
Get one while you can, because Casio has replaced this wonderful watch with a "less wonderful" MDV-107, which looks similar but is: - too small (only 36mm) - only has 50m of water resistance (not 200m) - has a press on back (not screw down) - has a push/pull crown (not screw in) - costs twice as much - and the final insult - has no fish on it! The MDV-106 Duro will never be a collectors item, because Casio has already sold millions of them, but buying a new one now will cost you less than buying a used one in the future.
Some EXCELLENT points, Marty! 👌 My understanding was that the 106 would no longer be produced, thanks to the 107. But I received a comment stating that the 106 is still in production 👀 Also, while I believe the 36mm model is a variation, please note that there is indeed MDV-107 models which are the full size. The only physical difference is they are missing the Marlin logo. I agree - and I’d much rather invest in, and represent the OG Marlin on my wrist 😁🦈 Thanks for weighing in! 🙏
You know, I have considered going back to the NATO for a while. I kind of felt like it would be wasteful not to use the Marlin Bracelet as it can’t work with any other watches. Maybe I will try the NATO back on soon. 😁 Cheers, Ian! 🙏
Oh... My bad! 😅 Thanks Raulito. 🙏 Are they just meant to be minute markers? Is it intended to function as a timer as a secondary function, or not at all?
OY! MATEY!!!! I too love digital watches. However, if ya use the obnoxious AM and PM, which can be very ambiguous and easily confused on MANY clocks and watches, you are no friend of mine! Use the totally clear and unambiguous bleedin 24 hour clock, as ALL civilised people do on this planet, except ignorant "Americans", and some other native "English" speakers, who very annoyingly call it "military time".
Hahaha, thanks for the well phrased recommendation, Owen! 🤣🙏 Genuinely, I’m actually going to give 24-hour time a try, thanks to you! 😁 Stay tuned, I might tie it in with an upcoming #WatchOfTheWeek episode, and tie it in with that 😉
You can't be serious comparing digital and analog watches. Better use your cell phone instead, it can show you time, date and you can also surf the internet woow. Lost a subscriber.
Sorry to have offended you, I know it’s not exactly a fair comparison. Genuinely, the points I made are my actual considerations when deciding which watch to wear for the day. I don’t find the Duro getting as much wrist time for these reasons - So I do stand by what I said. Hope you can understand where I’m coming from! Thanks for weighing in 🙏
@@goatreviews No dude, you didn't offend me, we're just talking about watches :) What I meant to say was considering you have a mostly digital collection, that would incline no watchmaking but only hacks. If we continue to follow that logic, we're already into smartwatches territory. Not sure if we're looking at the same audience there mate. 10.000$ Rolex doesn't have any of the g-shock features.
@@Gospodin_Kurac no problem. It’s ok to have different opinions. For me, it’s “function over form”, which is why I’ll always be a digital guy 😄 I’ve given smartwatches a go, but prefer to be mostly ‘disconnected’ from the notifications. It’s mainly timers, alarms, solar power etc that excite me 🤩
So you took a waterproof watch and made it worthless.. or did you get it tested? Either way it would be handy to know, because I for one am sick of watching all of these cheap and easy mods that DON'T show if the integrity of the watches waterproofness is diminished... thumbs down.
Hi Michael, the watch is not worthless for my needs 😁 I have never intended to take this watch diving. Unfortunately I do not own the expensive equipment required to conduct a waterproof rating test. That being said, given the original lens appeared to only be "press-fitted" in anyway, I would be surprised if the new lens I installed had a noticeably lower WR rating. Thanks for weighing in! 🙏
For the price of the watch, let's say the integrity is destroyed... It's 60 quid. Not Tudor prices. But, I've done this mod, and having sapphire it's the best beater watch on the planet. Also, it's been in the sea, covered in concrete, never failed, and is great when it's strap modded. Get the 106 instead of the 107 (for the marlin) If you do the sapphire mod, just replace the gaskets. The worst that would happen is you get water in a 5 dollar miyota quartz that's easy to switch out.
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Love the bracelet. 😊
@@frankdelgado1946 me too! 🤩 I decided to leave it on as the default.
Thanks for weighing in, Frank! 🙏
The metal strap and the blue glass makes it even look more premium. Definitely worth the upgrade
Cheers Mr RBB! 🍻
I’m definitely enjoying wearing this stunner a lot more 😎
Yes. It looks amazing.
A GenZer gets an analog watch and does not know how to use it. Funny!
I guess you're referring to the unboxing video? Can't argue with that! 😂
@@goatreviewsthe crown… aha
@@ScottPC Oh yeah - What a disaster 😂
Digital watches are more my thing 😁
@@goatreviews mate your video was annoying the hell out of me to the point it was hilarious how out of touch you was 😂 good video nonetheless!!
@ScottPC hahaha, I can only IMAGINE the frustration of watching someone with no idea fumble through… 😂
Thanks for sticking it out! 🙏
Im very surprised that you went to the hassle of replacing the crystal and didn't use sapphire
Me too, Gary! 🥲
I didn’t expect to like the watch so much, so thought I’d save the money.
But I regret that choice. I’m loving the Duro!
It wasn’t that much more expensive, I should have gone with sapphire! 💯
The nato is great in hot, humid weather, the metal will not be as comfortable. You can definitely make mistakes, changing the crystal, not sure I'd recommend that for everyone, I messed up a date window by putting the stem back in behind where it goes. Before you do it really ask yourself if its going to make that much difference, or you can wait until your min. glass is really scratched, which will be quite a while.
You make a great point Bill 👌
Before I got the more expensive “screw down” watch press, I was using the much cheaper “spring press”. I can vouch through experience that it is easy to make mistakes, and that these mods are not for everyone! (I ruined a critical lens gasket using this inferior press - there’s a video explaining that story here - ruclips.net/video/2aOoJ15paiA/видео.html )
There’s so much to consider with these mods. As you mentioned - is the risk worth the marginal benefit? And as I discovered, is the cost of the tools to do it right worth the benefit? Will you be using the tool enough to offset its costs? 🤔
Thanks for weighing in with this well thought out, and very logical take, Bill! 🙏
Much easier to tell the time at a quick glance with an analog watch. Far easier to see the position of the hands to tell time in lower light conditions with analog watch (especially if normally wear glasses but don’t have them on).
@@howardlo65 Hi Howard! 👋 I appreciate you weighing in with this viewpoint. Thank you! 🙏
Personally, I disagree with the first part - a digital time is clear and precise, ready to be read aloud, without any processing required.
I do agree with your next point, that in low light conditions, an analog watch with lume would be easier at a glance since you wouldn’t have to press a backlight button 👌 There are certain models of digital watches which will auto-illuminate the backlight as your wrist is raised, which is pretty cool! 😁
I do wear glasses, but don’t personally have issues reading the time with them off. I know many people would, though!
Thanks again for your input my man. 🤝
The blue AR is anti reflective coating. Should make the watch more legible outside on sunny days. I would have definitely paid the extra money for the sapphire crystal though. Its well worth the upgrade. You can also get great quality steel bracelets for these online. Long Island watch makes a nice one.
The AR coating is such a cool addition for sunny days, and looks spectacular too. 🤩
Oh man, I couldn't agree more! I wish I could go back and have ordered the Sapphire Crystal for the additional scratch protection! It wasn't even much more expensive anyway 😅
Awesome! Thank you for the recommendations, Rocco! 🙏
I'm glad you highlighted some digital vs analogue points because I have been into watches for over 30 years and I've come full circle back to digital watches because of those reasons. I wear a digital Casio every day and I love them. I have some fairly expensive automatic analogue watches which I wear occasionally but the basic Casios and G-shocks are easy to throw on and use reliably, all day, every day.
Thank you, Matt. 🙏 It's refreshing to hear that this resonated with you - I did have a few others mention that it was an unfair comparison, which I can also understand. But from my point of view, I completely stand by what I said! 😁
These features are real considerations when deciding which watch to wear, right?
Nice one. Interesting to hear you've come full circle! Cheers for weighing in! 🍻
@@goatreviews I have to admit 15 years ago when I was deep into mechanical watches I would've thought very differently. I get where those enthusiasts are coming from because I was one but the truth is what we think is cool changes over time and sometimes cool AND useable/convenient comes into play.
@@mattkinsella9856 100 percent. 💯👌
I can respect both sides of people’s preferences, and to each their own, based on their journey 😁
just bought this watch def upgrading the glass to saphire
Good plan, Rebel! 🙏 I wish I'd gone with the Sapphire, but so far the normal glass is holding up fine 👌
Both straps look great, but I think I prefer the look of the nato on it. Also looks a bit more comfortable.
Cheers Colin! 🙏
It does look pretty mint, right? 👌
You’re so right - I just got back from volleyball wearing the NATO Strap and it was very comfy indeed 🤩
Really like this format. Straightforward and simple with a bit of humor. ❤ Tired of all the macro shots and pretentious nonsense from the majority of the RUclipsrs out there.
Much appreciated, Albert. 🙏 It's a rewarding format to deliver, as well! 😁 Looking forward to doing more like this.
I have the entire Duro collection (7 variations)
It's the only watch model of which I have all the variations... thanks to its low price... except for the one with the white dial 😀 which is now expensive when you can find it! (often second-hand)
That’s INSANE! 🤯🤩 You’re a lucky man 👌
Which colourway is you favourite to wear? And have you done any strap changes or anything?
Incredible - I’d never heard of the elusive white Duro 👀
@@goatreviews
Only the black still with the original strap (my first Duro) .. all others are with metal bracelet like yours
My prefered dial is the Duro blue !! and from collector point of view .. the white of course 😀
@@GusAudibert awesome! 😁 The Blue dial is very cool. Thank you for sharing 👌
I love this mod! The rounded blue crystal and the Steele bracelet. Wow! Beautiful. I am going to do this mod with mine. I did not care for the NATO strap. I can see the practicality of one of if I was a diver..but they always make watches look bulky. Great video!
It’s an absolute stunner, right? 🤩⌚️
Thank you for the feedback, Rick! 🙏 I’m so glad you enjoyed the video 😁
Best of luck with the mod! 👌
Shark mesh is actually what I have on my dive watch. It just looks phenomenal.
Incredible! That’s the first I’ve heard of Shark Mesh… It looks amazing! 🤩🦈 Thanks for sharing, Nico! 🙏
@@goatreviews Yeah, it's basically chain mail, and cutting the links to shorten the bracelet is a pain, but it's awesome when finished.
That’s awesome!@@nicodimus2222! I imagine the payoff of doing that would be incredibly satisfying. I’d love to get this strap one day!
I received this one days ago. I'm like you: more a digital watch guy but... I can't take it off! Like literally, I just want to wear it and only it. Even if it has flaws: rubber band not great, lume not great, and the bezel action on mine is stiff, it's even getting harder and harder to use it.
Awesome! It’s the perfect stepping stone into Analog, right?! 😁
I feel you 💯 It’s a truly enthralling watch 👀
Ah man, sorry to hear about the bezel action! What do you think might have caused that?
Cara, ficou espetacular, estou pensando em fazer no meu. Mas a pergunta é: ainda ficou a prova D'água?
Thank you, my dude! 🙌 It's a stunning upgrade. While I have not been able to submerge it to 200m, I have worn this in the shower many times since the upgrade. I suspect that since the original lens was only 'Press fit' into the housing, and the new lens was pressed in with a similar amount of pressure, that it is still waterproof. Probably not up to 200m though! 😄 Hope this helps! 🙏
The Duro well worth it's value. The upgrade even more so. I already have a Duro but will buy a second just for the mod upgrade.
The value… it’s absolutely incredible right?
Casio just does it best.
Yes sir! 🙌 Really glad you enjoyed the upgrades - it really kicks it up a notch and I’m so happy with it. You won’t regret it! 🤩
I noticed on some older videos that the Casio Duro models they were reviewing had snap on cases. These videos were not that far back. No more than 6 months or so ago. I would make sure that the Casio Duro I ordered had the screw on case back. A snap on case back is a bad idea. Screw on case back is what you need.
G’day Glen, thanks for sharing this. 🙏
That’s incredibly interesting! I’m trying to visualise what a snap on case would even look like. Was it definitely the Casio MDV-106? I’d love to see one of the videos if you track it down! 👀
@@goatreviews These videos showed up in my feed from well-known watch reviewers. This information would be easy to find. You know, those pros and cons videos? The watches were described as Casio Duro, 36mm wide. These reviewers mentioned that these watches were not easy to source at the time.
@@glenh4971 Ah, that’s the info I needed! It’s the newer 36mm model, which is a little smaller. Thanks for clarifying, Glen! 🙏
Hey goatreviews, thanks for this. You have made me less hesitant to mod my Duro.
I thought your content, presentation, transparency in the "oops" category and overall value of the review to be excellent!
I definitely want to replace my crystal with a sapphire crystal and with a magnified date bubble. That may be a bit more difficult to install due to the date placement.
LOVE the steel bracelet. That to me takes this $50 watch and makes it look like a $500 watch. I replace the original one with a Wellfit 22mm Black band that I already had. To me, it upgrades the appearance moving it from the "dive" look. So, just depends what you want.
Thank you again.
Yo, I very much appreciate your helpful feedback, Deadonit! ❤
It's important for me to leave the 'Oops' in to paint an accurate picture of the modding experience.
Lining up the Date Window might make it trickier! But it would be worth the effort for that payoff 🤩
Agreed, the bracelet is a MASSIVE game changer. Nice one! Sounds amazing. 👌
Thanks so much for weighing in! 🙏
Duro is the goat for diver watch
It really is, right? It’s simply impossible for other dive watches to compare to the features and quality for this price point. I place an incredible emphasis on “Value” with my purchases, so I reckon I’ll be a Casio customer for life 👌😁
@@goatreviews agreed mate.. Put in nh35 automatic and boom this is better than those luxury brands
Damn, I just looked up the movement @@rsg5850! 🤩 What do you reckon though - Would a module swap be possible, and would the effort be worth the payoff in your opinion? 🤔
@@goatreviews I haven't done it but read somewhere that automatic movement can be swapped or just buy steeldive sd1953
Comparing an analog watch to a digital is not a fair comparison, things you list as negatives on the analog have always been true of most all analogs, but sometimes you want the look of an analog, especially if youre old enough to remember when ALL watches were analog--lol I have two Casio Duro's in gold and black and I love them - but I do like my digital watches also, just depends on my mood and use case.
Some great points, Yambo! 💯
I couldn’t agree more. It’s not really a fair comparison.
To clarify, I really mean that these are the considerations going through my head when I’m deciding what I might wear for the day. There really is a time and place for each, right? 😁
Glad to hear you’re enjoying your gold Duro’s, and some digitals too! 👌
Thanks for weighing in. 🙏
I corrected my initial comment, when I said "remember when ALL watches were digital" I should have said "analog" -- I do agree with you on the point of a digital watch being more instantly readable with a backlight. I like luminescent dials but I also think whats the point, if you have to hit it with a light to illuminate it you might as well just read the watch with a flashlight and be done with it--lol I guess since im older and grew up with all analog watches early in life I still have a soft spot for analog dials my uncles and so used to wear so I kinda defend them, but I have to admit today same as you I find the digital watches especially ones with larger digits such as a Casio 217H easier to read especially in dark or low light conditions - the only analog watch I know of that addresses this readability issue is a watch like the Timex indiglo which lights up the entire dial when you press the crown - now thats one easily readable analog watch-! what you cant deny is the amount of functionality and readability of a digital watch - yet so many are still drawn to them, could it be they are looked at as a kind of art piece-??
I really respect your ability to reflect, and adjust your initial viewpoint, @yambo59 . 🙏
I agree on the luminescent dials! The whole idea is that it doesn’t need to be charged up as needed 😆
It sounds like you have some fond memories with the analog watches. Nostalgia can be extremely powerful!
Awesome - thanks for sharing this recommendation! 🙏 The Timex Indiglow is HOW IT SHOULD BE DONE! 🤩
To answer your question, absolutely! There’s definitely people who consider them ‘art pieces’. It’s something to be appreciated, and also a way for people to express themselves. I feel the same way about Digital Watches! As well as things like the intricacies of mechanical movements, I imagine there’s even more factors experienced by those who truly appreciate Analog Watches that I’m simply not familiar with. 😁
I have both the Duro and the GD350. The vibe alarm on the GD350 is a godsend as I am hard of hearing.
That being said, def love the metal bracelet and the lens mod. Really kicks the Duro up to a more premium watch. Earned yourself a new sub!
Great stuff, Stav! 🙏
These are both some incredible watches. Yes, the GD-350 is one of my absolute FAV'S! 🤩
Thanks for your viewership, and Welcome aboard! 🤝
Suddenly I’ve got Duro added to my Casio purchase list !
Haha, I can see why 😁 An amazing watch! 👌
Awesome matching bracelet you got there! Dome lens mod looks fantastic for a dive-style watch!
Thank you Gigachad! 👊
Yep, the domed lenses really do suit Dive Watches perfectly. 👌 Reminds me of a Submarine cockpit!
Looks great. I'm glad to see I'm not the only one who has to do everything twice :)
Hahaha, I appreciate the honestly, Eric! 😁🙏
They say “measure twice, cut once!”. I think we need to take this on board 😅
Nice mod! It will be still water resistant after glass replacement?
Great question, Jaca 👌
When I removed the original lens, I realised that there was no “seal” around it. It was merely pressed in, with a high level of precision to seal out the water (which can apparently handle 200m!)
While I doubt that this replacement lens is as precise as Casio’s original, it was a very snug fit, and I haven’t noticed any water leaks since I’ve been using it. I’m pretty confident this thing is very water tight! 😁👌
Hope this helps! 🙏
Firstly as a Boomer, I really feel your pain having to read an analog dial. Secondly, to actually manually rotate a bezel to time your steak cooking? My god man, the worlds gone mad!😵💫😱🤣 I’ve had a Duro for a couple of years & did the same mod to the crystal, but went sapphire!🤩 I’ve looked at that bracelet but have swapped the old one with a FKM rubber strap. I just received the AE-1500 on Friday & love it. I wouldn’t go for the other model simply because I think it looks really cheap. And it just doesn’t look as nice as the original issue. Good review of the Duro. A poor man’s Rolex Submariner.
@@andrewd7586 Haha, I know what you mean. Yeah, the sapphire wasn’t much more expensive, I wish I went with that option now. Glad to hear you’re enjoying your AE-1500! 🙌
Thanks man. I appreciate your input, Andrew! 🙏
Stainless steel bracelets look awesome!!!!
It sure does!! I’m in love with the Marlin Bracelet 🤩🦈
The metal bracelet easily looks the best! How did you manage to mangle the split pin? Trying to pull out the screw-down crown had me laughing loads in the other video. Love that you show the good, the bad and the fubar!
I'm digging the bracelet too, PickAny! 👌I swapped to the Zulu strap for my Volleyball games this week, but have now just swapped back to the Metal clasp.
re-installing the metal clasp each time can be finicky, so I reckon I'll leave it on and use other watches for sports for now 😄
I'm glad my buffoonery was entertaining for you, my man! 🤣 Thanks for weighing in! 🙏
Oops, forgot to address how I mangled the split pin! 🧷
So what happened is I tried to use the springbar removal tool on from the WRONG side of the bracelet! So it started ejecting the wrong way, and then get jammed halfway.
I had trouble getting it to go back through the correct way, so I decided to just rip it out with force (I was excited to complete the build, and knew I wouldn’t need it anyway since I was removing so many links 😅) 🔗
Lol, thank you for the replies Goat Herder, they were appreciated.🧍🐐👍🏻
I know this was 4 months ago, but I'd pick the 1500. I have one and it's one of my favorites! :)
I hear it’s a great watch and I can’t wait to wear this one! 👌 I plan to include it in another #WatchOfTheWeek community poll in the near future
@@goatreviews Coincidentally, I'm wearing mine as I type. :) Great display, super visible, nice big buttons (which I've NEVER hit them on anything) and, this is nitpicky, the light button is on the top right, which I prefer. :)I was looking for a watch to wear at night in dark situations that was easy to read with a good light and this checked all the boxes. And it's comfy, too, for the size.
@Oddzilla51 Awesome 👌 You’re making me even more hype to open mine! 🤩
Yup. Great watches, have two, both with sapphire. For the money definitely goats.....
Good stuff, Mark! 👌
Which colourways did you go with?
Given how much I’m loving this Duro, I’m wishing I spent a little more on going with the Sapphire option, too!
That replacement lens with the blue hew is very cool, but since I only paid $55 for the watch, I'm wondering how much that particular upgrade costs? As for the strap, I went with a blue Ritche Military Ballistic Nylon Watch Strap. For $17 on Amazon, it's a great match for the blue Duro.
I resonate with this viewpoint, KMO! 😁👌
When the costs of the upgrades start approaching the entire watch, you have to start asking questions.
The lens cost me less than the price of that ballistic Nylon strap you mentioned) which sounds awesome by the way!)
I’ve linked it in the description, and it should still be available.
Keep in mind you would need a watch press to perform this mod!
@@goatreviews I ordered the new crystal, and was pleased to find one with the "cyclops" date magnifier. Thanks for the tip!
No worries,@@kmo9219! 👌
Hope you enjoy it. If you’d like to share pics of your finished build when finished, feel free to do so in our Discord Channel 😁
Just ordered the Marlin bracelet after watching your video, can't wait till it comes.
Great stuff, Mike! I’m so glad to have inspired you 😁👌
You’re gonna love it! 🤩
Could you please share a link to the bracelet? The one under the video no longer works
@@pogonoforysci tried, looks like RUclips removed the link sorry.
@@MikeHolman Would you be able to put the name of the seller and how they called their product in a comment? I should be able to find the bracelet based on that info
Hi @pogonoforysci , here is the compatible bracelet with the Marlin logo:
geni.us/MARLIN
Thanks for alerting me that the link needs updating - they must be selling out fast 😁🙏
Oh, right! I like the stainless steel. I don't see too many dive watches with leather straps.😮
Me too, Joe! It looks magnificent, and takes the Duro up to a whole new level. I do like the NATO / Zulu strap too, though! 🤩
you cannot bo back with the 'timer' because its for decompresion.. its a diving watch.. as you need to decompress for lets say 10 minutes from 35m dive (just an example) then you set it up, and wait , if somethign happens and you bump the watch by accident the timer will add rather than substract. so that the diver life is not in danger in case he would leave decompression depth too early. No one is using this sort of function anyway as divers have dive computers.. but its a good back up method. Thats why it only spins one way.
Absolutely fascinating!! 🤩🧐
I had no idea about this intended functionality.
Thank you so much for sharing, Kira! 🙏
@@goatreviews Me EITHER. NEVER knew that. Thanks, Kira07.
Beautiful watch.
Both the metal bracelet and zulu strap are great, but for this one I'd prefer the zulu :D
Cheers Sam! 👌
It’s gorgeous. I’m in love with it now 🤩
A great choice - I’m wearing the Zulu strap as we speak. Thanks for weighing in! 🙏
Great Video and mods. I would have gone the sapphire rout, but other than that I think you did a great job for being your first mod on an analog watch, and you had all the tools needed ( I hate it when someone uploads a mod video and don't have the necessary tools at hand, gives us mortals a false idea of how to go about the mod).
The watch looks great on your wrist, the size looks perfect, not too large. Will be waiting for the upcoming mods.
Preference: I always favor the steel bracelet before leather or nylon bands, but like to mix it up afterwards (have lots of natos, leather bands and bracelets for my watches, can't help it, hahaha)
Best regards
Thank you kindly, Jorge! 🙏
Man, I totally feel you on that… I wish I’d gone Sapphire too, now! 💎 It wasn’t that much more expensive 🥲
I appreciate it! It feels satisfying to have the right tools for the job. I’m really pleased I decided to get the screw down watch press for my MR-G build, well worth the investment! 😁
Good stuff. I’m undecided on preference at the moment! I took off the metal to wear the nylon band to volleyball, and really enjoyed the look and feel of it 👌 I reckon I’ll be swapping back to the metal Marlin clasp so I have some variety for other occasions though! 😉
I’ve got the same bracelet on my Duro but recently replaced the clasp coz old one was too bulky and not comfortable to wear with long sleeves. Want to upgrade my Duro with sapphire crystal with magnifier and change watch hands.
Interesting. Thanks for sharing! 🙏
That sounds like a cool idea, Frank! I'd love to see the results. 🤩
Feel free to come and share it in the Discord when you're done, or if you need any help 😄
Spettacolare. Bellissimo il tuo canale concentrato sui Casio ma mi ha fatto ridere quando non sapevi che aveva la corona a vite 😂😂
Grazie amico mio! Ahahah, capisco perché! 😂 Mi fa piacere che la mia inesperienza sia stata una situazione comica per la comunità 😁
Great choice in music 😎👍
Thanks for noticing, American! 🇺🇸🙏
You know, I’d already picked the song and edited it in, and it wasn’t until after publishing I realised that there is a faint ‘ticking noise’ right as the watch gets assembled. It couldn’t have been any more perfect! 😁👌
Seems like a lot of what you didn't like, or know about this watch, as well as the thing you broke, could've been avoided in a pretty shallow dive on RUclips first. Even before you bought the watch. It's been around a while, and modded to death. Did you need a manual more than a smartphone? I put HOURS in on stuff before I add anything to a shopping cart.
The Duro's a FANTASTIC watch for the price. Like you said, your just an lcd guy. Simple and easy. The Duro is for the romantics.
Cheers.
Some valid critique, JMR. Thank you - I appreciate the honest feedback. 🙏
To address the points about prior research:
1. Researching the Watch - I deliberately didn’t watch any unboxing videos of this watch. I genuinely prefer to “go in blind” so I’m intrigued and excited during my openings. 😁
2. Researching the Mod - I did watch a video about how to remove the crown, which I even had open for reference during recording! Unfortunately it was not sufficiently clear which part or the module to press down on, and so I misunderstood, as you saw. I’ve tried to make my video a little more clear on exactly which part to press!
You’re absolutely right, I’m more of a Digital Watch guy 😂💯 I do still love this watch though! 🤩
Thanks for weighing in! 👌
Did you ever mod the AE-1500? I didn't see a video on it. It's my favorite because of the large numbers.
G’day Reh! 👋 Negative, I haven’t had a chance to unbox the AE-1500 yet. It’s been in a couple of community polls for #WatchOfTheWeek, but so far it hasn’t won the popular vote. Don’t worry, I’ll include it in an upcoming poll 😉
Just saw your video on Casio Duro and crystal swap. Nice job. Since you bought the tools, I don't want to as I have too many. Do you perform crystal swaps. Also can I get that done locally. You are probably half way around the globe. I'm in Arizona.
Thanks, Joe! I appreciate it. 🙏
Fair call! It can be quite pricey for a watch press, especially if it’s for a once off. Even I was reluctant to get mine! So now I’m trying to get my usage out of it 😁
Cool idea! I could potentially perform a crystal swap if the parts were sent - it’s not something I’ve considered before! 🤔
I’m in Australia so postage may be expensive. My advise would be to call your local watch repair store, and see if they could so a lens swap, and see if the price is reasonable! Otherwise let me know and I’ll see if I can help 😁
Great review mate, its a common question with this watch but what is the size of your wrist?
Im sitting at about 17cm and im worried itll be too big due to the lug to lug 😞
My wrist size is about 16.5cm, so very close to yours, luckily! So you can use the fit on my wrist as an example of what to expect on yours 😁👌
Like you, I definitely prefer to wear a digital watch as I find them easier to read, especially with the sensible 24h notation.
Along with many digital watches having better features, I especially like the DB-36 for using it's extra buttons to make the operation smoother.
But I have found that large analogue dials with minute markers are amazing for longer public transit trips.
This as the sweeping hands are amazing for quickly gauging durations and estimating how much time you have to make a trip.
That NATO strap is gorgeous, the brand I usually go with has lighter hardware, which while being more comfortable also looks cheaper.
The metal bracelet looks great but seems too shiny for this Duro, which benefits from a black contrasting strap more.
And the "marlin" is actually a sailfish, personally I also think of the 3D-printer firmware when I hear Marlin so I prefer the name Duro.
That’s the way, Wyvern! 🙌😁
Woah! I’d never heard of the DB-36 before, that’s really cool. What kind of functionality does “forward” and “reverse” achieve on the watch?
I know what you mean about the hardware - it’s one of the reasons I chose these nice and thick-buckled “Zulu” straps. In my opinion they look better, and are surely more durable.
Haha, I know right? While it ain’t technically a Marlin, IMO the nickname appears to have stuck already 😂 Duro sounds good too 🙏
@@goatreviews "forward" and "reverse" are your usual up and down for changing numbers or scrolling through the phonebook or alarms.
In the time screen they also temporarily show the second timezone or last viewed phone number while pressed, which is very useful.
Aside from setting they are useless in the stopwatch and timer mode, where it works like a normal, older Casio (no auto-repeat).
Left and right change which field you are editing, this is per digit and you can go back, set is dedicated to exiting and light to the backlight (though on the DBC-32D it has more tacked-on features).
@@WyvernDotRed incredible! That’s more useful than I’d imagined TBH. It would be cool to see this feature expanded to its full potential in upcoming releases!
Sometimes old school type is the way to go!
Cheers, Seneca! 🙏 Agreed! 👌 There's nothing quite like being Old School Cool 😎
Blue glasss ufff bello
Thank you Harry! 🙏
It looks soooo good right? 🤩👌
Awesome. Where did you get that bracelet?
Cheers Jo! 🙏 It’s such a nice bracelet.
I got it from AliExpress - and have left a link for you in the description of the video 👌
Would you consider improving the line on this watch?
Edit: sorry. I meant Lume.
Hi Izzy, would you please clarify what you mean by improving the line?
@@goatreviews Hi Goat Reviews. Autocorrect got me. I meant improving the Lume.
@@izzyroses242 no problem! 😁
Hmmm, it wasn’t something I’d considered. I do have some lume powder, so it may be possible! Although My initial reaction is that I feel it would be a VERY precise job to keep it looking clean. I’ll keep this in mind though - thanks for the suggestion! 🙏
I have 6.5 inch wrist size and strong crush on casio duro mdv 106 😍 should i have to order it or not because once it's arrived I can't return it please reply please 🙏
Haha, it's a strong urge for such a beautiful watch, isn't it Aditya? 😁 I have a similar wrist size - and am very happy with mine, especially after the mods! It's a very versatile watch. 🤩
It's up to you, my friend. Think about how much it costs, and whether you will get that much usage out of it to justify it. Best of luck with your decision! 🤞
Easy returns are available bro
@@goatreviewsstar mods?
Is that watch still has 20 bar water proof?
Great question, Aras 🙏
While I don’t have the testing apparatus to verify this, I’m fairly confident that the water rating wouldn’t have been affected. The lens is press-fitted in the same way as the original, and I was sure to use silicone grease on the O-ring when re-sealing the case back 😃
had the same bracelet for it, unfortunately it broke apart soon after while taking dive in the Aegean Sea, surface rust :(
Oh man, that sucks! How long did you own it for?
Potentially it was the Salt Water, as I haven’t noticed any rust on mine from normal tap water.
I’ll keep an eye out! 👀
Thanks for sharing your experience with us 🙏
@@goatreviews i kept the clasp with the engraved marlin logo!
@@v1nnyvice good choice 😁👌🦈
Does it still have the 200m water resistant?
Great question! 👌 I suspect that since the original lens was press-fit into the bezel, then the new lens I added should be just as water-tight. I've had showers with it since then without issue, and I doubt I'll ever be in deep enough water to find out 😁
Great video my friend. Congrats!
I’m glad you enjoyed the video, Joao! Thank you. 🙏 It was a pleasure to build, and a very rewarding outcome 🤩
@@goatreviews These mods were really cool. I also bought the sapphire crystal and a Jubilee strap. When my Casio Duro arrive I'll do these modd =)
Good stuff, @@JoaoVitor-yi7sc! 🙏
You’re going to be in for a TREAT once it all arrives, and you get to enjoy customising it 🤩 Enjoy!
Are u going to do a bezel video
Thanks for the suggestion! 🙏
I wasn’t planning on it, but don’t count it out 😉
I hear it can be a delicate operation.
Where did you get the metal band I need one for my newly restored marlin w101
I snagged it on AliExpress for a very reasonable price here:
geni.us/MARLIN
@@goatreviews its gone
Thank you for advising me this, @over2seeyer ! 🙏
I have just been in contact with another seller to confirm they have a Marlin strap available. I have updated it in the description, and the comment above. Here's the new link:
geni.us/MARLIN
Pretty sure it's a SAILFISH and not a Marlin. Can't find why it was named wrong
Hahaha, good pickup, GottaGeek! 👌🙏
I couldn’t agree more. I know personally I’m just ‘rolling with it’, as it’s what everyone else calls it 😅
I imagine many others are the same - they just hear what’s caught on and have perpetuated the incorrect terminology 😜
I’d love to know where it started, too!
Nice job, hope you get many years of enjoyment from that great watch.
Thanks
Cheers, Lew! 🙏 I just know this one is a long term keeper - I've fallen in love with it 🤩
FANTASTIC JOB NICE WATCH
Cheers Albert! 🙏 Very happy with it 😁
A dive watch is best worn with a rubber strap
Thanks for the advice, Stéphane! 🙏 I can see why a rubber strap would be the best option for its intended use case. 👌
Metal bracelet all day.
@@GlynDwr-d4h Oh yeah! 😎👌 I haven’t taken it off since installing it 😜
Hi! Does swapping the crystal affect the water resistance?
Hi Matteus! 👋
I don’t know for sure. What I do know is that the original lens was just “press-fitted” into the housing, without any rubber gasket or seal apparent when I removed it. For the new lens, I simply press-fit it in the same way. I imagine that the size wouldn’t be as precise as the original, so perhaps there wouldn’t be the full 200m of water resist any more. Hope this helps! 🙏
@@goatreviews thanks!!🙏
Hey guys, anyone have any idea of a 12H bezel insert for our Duro? it will just make it more practical
Cool idea, Lucian! 💡
I’d love to hear more about where to obtain these bezel inserts if anyone knows 👀
That is a zulu strap, not a nato strap. Also you did not weave it in such a way to reduce spring bar tension
I appreciate the correction, Cannedeals! 🙏
Is the difference between a Zulu and a NATO Strap based on the material, or buckle style perhaps?
Woah, I’d love to hear the technique to reducing the spring bar tension, too, if you wouldn’t mind sharing 🤩👂
Thanks in advance! 🙏
Typically zulus have thicker nylon than natos. Typically Zulus have rounder and thicker hardware than natos. Aswell on the end of the understrap natos have 1 ring, where as zulus have 2 rings.
For strain/tension release you thread the main strap through both rings at the end of the understrap, then you fold the mainstrap up and through the first ring from the bottom and back over. This means when putting the watch on tight, the pressure does not travel to the part of the strap holding the watch.
This is such valuable information, @@cannedeals!
That’s the best explanation I’ve heard to tell the differences. I appreciate it - and now I won’t be confused any longer 😁
Incredible! I’ll give this technique a try. Thank you so much for your insights! 🙏🫡
Sapphire looks great! Now it's time to put it in oil haha
Haha, you know it Purple Cat! 🙏
I do have plans to Hydro mod this watch! 🤫
I’m hearing that I might need a new silicone oil though? The one I have might be too thick.
Either way, I can tell it’s going to be a messy one when attaching the case back 😂
@@goatreviews Flexichem is the way to go for silicon oil in Aus, though 1L minimum order
Thanks for the tip, @@cannedeals! 🙏 Looks like they have just what’s needed 🤩
Can u do a lume update?
I could potentially mention this in my next collection update. Thanks for the suggestion, Kaly! 🙏
@@goatreviews Your videos are wonderful,glad the duro has so many upgrade options...Beautiful work especially the crystal change.
Hi, where can I find the metal strap?
Hi Francois! 👋 I've left a link to the metal bracelet for you in the description of this video.
Enjoy! 🙏
ya it is quirky but I LIKE HANDS!
Hahaha, cheers Larry! 😄🙏
where do you get the metal
bracket from
Hi Stephen! I got it from AliExpress.
I’ve left a link to the item in the video description for you 😉
Great mods!
Glad you like them! Cheers Davide 😁
Yeah dive watches are not the same as digital watches as far as the dive bezel goes.
The duro is a dive watch not a fashion watch. I modded both of my Duros but with sapphire crystals and various solid link stainless steel bracelets. Much better wrist presence.
Yep, I feel that, Mike! 👌
It’s not really a fair comparison - It’s mainly my thought process when deciding what to wear.
Good stuff!! I regret going mineral instead of Sapphire, it wouldn’t have been much more expensive to go all the way 🥲💎
Thanks for weighing in, man! 🙏
i hate domed crystals - cannot see the time from an angle
Fair call, my man! 👌 I have found the domed Crystal to add a really cool aesthetic, though I haven't noticed any annoyances with the viewing angles. I imagine any of these will be cleared up when I eventually Hydro Mod this watch too! 😉
You sir, have balls of steel. You went from not understanding acrew down crowns and unidirectional bezels to modding the crystal and bracelet. 😅
LOL - It was a journey, but I love to learn! 😁 Some painful realizations along the way haha
Most comparisons are pointless, they are two different concept and functions. The duro is a tool watch and has a unique lure like all mechanical watches
I totally feel that - it wasn’t necessarily a ‘fair comparison’. These are merely the considerations that run through my mind when deciding which watch to wear!
Thanks for weighing in, Andream! 🙏
It's not a mechanical, it's a quartz.
Good pickup,@@folksurvival! 🙏😂
Welcom to real watch ownership!!!
Haha, cheers Brian 😂🙏
Get some nice automatic, mechanical watches you are missing out on so much, my friend
Thanks so much for weighing in with this suggestion, Richard! 🙏
I reckon I will eventually get an automatic mechanical watch at some point! 👌 One day... Right now I'm still feeling the appeal of digital 🤩
reading analog dials hurts my head too
shifting gears also
how can anyone can have more than one language in his head I wonder
I am american
Great points, Owls 🦉👌
These are things I’m not personally proficient at… BUT!… like most things in life, I imagine that it comes down to practice, and familiarity to make these skills both possible, and even fluent! 😁
analog is the best
Haha, I can see why many people think so. Thanks for weighing in, Hector! 🙏
Hydromod this watch!
Oh boy - This is a GREAT IDEA! 🤩 Thanks Karol, I would love to do so when the time is right 😉👌
Get one while you can, because Casio has replaced this wonderful watch with a "less wonderful" MDV-107, which looks similar but is:
- too small (only 36mm)
- only has 50m of water resistance (not 200m)
- has a press on back (not screw down)
- has a push/pull crown (not screw in)
- costs twice as much
- and the final insult - has no fish on it!
The MDV-106 Duro will never be a collectors item, because Casio has already sold millions of them, but buying a new one now will cost you less than buying a used one in the future.
Some EXCELLENT points, Marty! 👌
My understanding was that the 106 would no longer be produced, thanks to the 107. But I received a comment stating that the 106 is still in production 👀
Also, while I believe the 36mm model is a variation, please note that there is indeed MDV-107 models which are the full size. The only physical difference is they are missing the Marlin logo.
I agree - and I’d much rather invest in, and represent the OG Marlin on my wrist 😁🦈
Thanks for weighing in! 🙏
The only difference between MDV 106 and 107 is the marlin, the one you mention that is 36mm and only 50m WR is MDV-10.
Excellent - Thanks for weighing in to clarify these differences, @andiarun2879 ! 🙏 Much appreciated.
❤
Nato all day long
You know, I have considered going back to the NATO for a while. I kind of felt like it would be wasteful not to use the Marlin Bracelet as it can’t work with any other watches. Maybe I will try the NATO back on soon. 😁 Cheers, Ian! 🙏
Just lolz. The stuff you kids notice, like how long it takes to turn the bezel. Who the fuck notices that and calls it wasted time?! Lolz
Haha, true... It was a bit harsh, but nonetheless, it was something I noticed so is worth mentioning 😄
Thanks for weighing in, Matthew 🙏
No more Marlin 😢
Thankfully, I have heard some people comment that the Marlin is still in production? 👀
I am not sure how accurate this is though! Here's to hoping 🤞
The bezel is not a timer 😂, it's for divers
Oh... My bad! 😅 Thanks Raulito. 🙏
Are they just meant to be minute markers? Is it intended to function as a timer as a secondary function, or not at all?
it's so divers can time their dives because they only have so much air...it's literally a timer.
Cheers @@dancarthen3634 ! 🙏 This is what I had originally thought it was for 😅
digital is a lazy mans watch 🙂
Hmmm, a “lazy man” is one way of looking at it… 🤔
An alternative view is an “efficient man” 😜
OY! MATEY!!!! I too love digital watches. However, if ya use the obnoxious AM and PM, which can be very ambiguous and easily confused on MANY clocks and watches, you are no friend of mine! Use the totally clear and unambiguous bleedin 24 hour clock, as ALL civilised people do on this planet, except ignorant "Americans", and some other native "English" speakers, who very annoyingly call it "military time".
Hahaha, thanks for the well phrased recommendation, Owen! 🤣🙏
Genuinely, I’m actually going to give 24-hour time a try, thanks to you! 😁 Stay tuned, I might tie it in with an upcoming #WatchOfTheWeek episode, and tie it in with that 😉
You are horrible at these mods LOL so much went wrong
Thanks for the input Brandon. 🙏
Would you elaborate please? I’m very happy with how it turned out 🤩
@@goatreviews Turnt out great, just don't rush into stuff without looking carefully and thinking about the situation first...
Fair point, @@brandonar868. I was definitely too hasty with trying to remove the crown! I'll take more care next time.
Thanks for the feedback. 🙏
You can't be serious comparing digital and analog watches. Better use your cell phone instead, it can show you time, date and you can also surf the internet woow.
Lost a subscriber.
Sorry to have offended you, I know it’s not exactly a fair comparison.
Genuinely, the points I made are my actual considerations when deciding which watch to wear for the day. I don’t find the Duro getting as much wrist time for these reasons - So I do stand by what I said.
Hope you can understand where I’m coming from! Thanks for weighing in 🙏
@@goatreviews No dude, you didn't offend me, we're just talking about watches :) What I meant to say was considering you have a mostly digital collection, that would incline no watchmaking but only hacks. If we continue to follow that logic, we're already into smartwatches territory. Not sure if we're looking at the same audience there mate. 10.000$ Rolex doesn't have any of the g-shock features.
@@Gospodin_Kurac no problem. It’s ok to have different opinions. For me, it’s “function over form”, which is why I’ll always be a digital guy 😄
I’ve given smartwatches a go, but prefer to be mostly ‘disconnected’ from the notifications. It’s mainly timers, alarms, solar power etc that excite me 🤩
@@goatreviews Make no mistake, I own digital casios as well.
So you took a waterproof watch and made it worthless.. or did you get it tested? Either way it would be handy to know, because I for one am sick of watching all of these cheap and easy mods that DON'T show if the integrity of the watches waterproofness is diminished... thumbs down.
Hi Michael, the watch is not worthless for my needs 😁 I have never intended to take this watch diving.
Unfortunately I do not own the expensive equipment required to conduct a waterproof rating test. That being said, given the original lens appeared to only be "press-fitted" in anyway, I would be surprised if the new lens I installed had a noticeably lower WR rating.
Thanks for weighing in! 🙏
For the price of the watch, let's say the integrity is destroyed... It's 60 quid. Not Tudor prices.
But, I've done this mod, and having sapphire it's the best beater watch on the planet.
Also, it's been in the sea, covered in concrete, never failed, and is great when it's strap modded. Get the 106 instead of the 107 (for the marlin)
If you do the sapphire mod, just replace the gaskets.
The worst that would happen is you get water in a 5 dollar miyota quartz that's easy to switch out.
Fair assessment, @@TCL_Dasler! I tend to agree with all your points. Glad to hear your Sapphire Mod is holding STRONG! 💪
Thank you for weighing in! 🙏
RIP is for Rest In Pieces? 😂
Really a good job! 🫡
Hahaha, you got it Bruno! 😂🙏
Thanks mate - I appreciate it 👌