The best watch channel on RUclips, for me. This is the second video where you’ve done a phenomenal job in explaining how you define value, and at different price points. The addition of models and brands in each of these price tiers I’m sure will be incredibly helpful to people trying to sort through options when purchasing. Love the content. Appreciate what you do!
I am a relatively new watch enthusiast and every time I watch one of your videos, I feel like I'm attending a graduate level seminar on horology, watch making, and the watch industry. What I appreciate most about your content is that you're gifting your viewers with thoughtful frameworks for how to evaluate watch purchases. Your channel should be mandatory viewing for every watch collector.
Bet it's going to be a kind of Glashutthe or go to Universal Geneve .... kind of bet there will be 2 editions 😊 with different calibre's /price matters ... a diver and a dress watch versions
Wow Mike has over 85k subscribers. I remember when I first came across his channel and he was sub 25k, maybe less. It’s so heartwarming to see so many people gravitating to true educators and enthusiasts!! Bravo Michael 👏👏👏
This episode was super good. I'm a manufacturing engineer by profession, and it's crystal clear that you understand these things very well. I like your model as a comparison tool. Pretty straight forward. For me craft is the most complex parameter. It's really hard so understand what it adds to the experience of a watch. It's always a pleasure to look at good craftsmanship, but in my opinion it's easier to have a more consistent quality with a proper process, then handmade. But usually there is a feel to handmade things that's hard to quantify. I have been a collector for a very short time and it's an affordable collection were my favorite is my Willard. But during this journey my mindset have changed a lot. I more or less only buy with my heart. And heritage and cool story connected to the watch is far more important than accuracy or power reserve. Also fit and finish is more important than specs. I don't know if my thought made any sense. But anyway, thanks for a great episode and I wish you a good 2025.
Interesting. I find the story behind the watch and heritage absolutely meaningless. I don't care about marketing stories and "passion" and "we've made watches for a 150 years". I want it to hold time. I do value craft and handmade things, been doing it my whole life and it's part of my personality, I just hate when craft is overshadowd by branding in the final pricing - when it's not justified.
@ this is not only fair but sensible. I think one of the issues when it comes to luxury anything is that people are willing to spend a lot of money for that identity regardless of whether or not the mark up is justified. Heritage is important to some people like myself but not at the cost of overcharging ridiculously.
Thanks for that. As a layman on most things I value when someone that does something for a living (like being an actual mechanical engineering) acknowledges that I'm in the ballpark of "getting it". Happy new year 😀😀
Mike is so well informed and articulate about the multifaceted details of a watch that his vids are professorial. Thank you for these weekly updates and a great channel. Cheers!
At this point it's difficult for me to learn anything meaningful from watch YT content. But your content consistently delivers amazing insights. I feel like I am listening to a true industry insider.
What’s great about this, is that it helps watch enthusiasts determine their own priorities, provides a framework for determining how to assess “value”. In theory this approach will save enthusiasts from the constant buying and selling (and usually losing money in the process) that historically is required to gain experience and determine preferences and priorities. Great job. And happy new year to you and your loved ones.
Watched this twice, I generally don’t buy anything that costs more than one thousand, so I have a few NH movements, accuracy is so so, but I don’t think it matters too much, they are good enough, my circle of friends doesn’t do watches, so I buy for me, Rolex is a benchmark that I don’t need to reach, but understanding the benchmarks for various levels of perceived quality is important. Love this watch channel.
I'm still new to the hobby having been in it for about 2 years and only having the funds for maybe 2 watches a year at the $500-$1000 range. There's so many things I learn here that you just articulate extremely well to help guide me through the watch landscape. Thank you so much for your videos!
I saw you on Teddy‘s year-end video and got so excited and it was that point I realized, “Wow I’m a fanboy.” And you know what? I’m super cool with that.
At the end of the day, your favourite watch youtuber is the one you agree with the most… probably 😂 i don’t agree with everything you say but i just think you have a mostly object opinion on the watch industry nobody else has has! And I appreciate that very much. You and tim mosso are my favourites. Keep it up mike ❤️
Fantastic video as always Mike - the comparison elements were so clear and summed up the offerings so well. You and ID Guy bring such a clear defined approach to watches with no hype.
Probably the most valuable RUclips channel on watches out there right now. Andrew Morgan and Tim Mosso give you humorous personal opinion and precise mechanical description respectively at the highest level, but Mike gives you a breakdown of strategy, a comprehensive overview of the brands and offers a great model for comparison across watches at similar and differing price-points
Nice PF shoutout - they deserve more love. I bought the GMT Rattrapante a little while back and it hasn't left my wrist since. Ultra comfortable and understated.
I try and follow the keep it simple stupid idea. If I like the watch and I can reasonably afford it. I buy it. I also look for how comfortable it is on my wrist(which comes down to proportions, machining tolerances, etc). Great video, happy new years!
I love my Gentlemen. Green sector dial. Got it for Christmas two years ago. It is still one of my absolute favorites. I treated it to the leather strap with deployant buckle from Tissot. Gives it a whole different feel on the leather. The bracelet is great even though there is no micro adjust and a butterfly clasp, I still get a great fit.
It’s not often that you’ll get watch folks on RUclips letting you know about what manufacturers make what for different watch brands. This knowledge is excellent and very rarely shared. So refreshing and transparent
Yet another superb video. If/when I ever produce content in my own area of expertise I hope it’s this good. Mike’s level of technical knowledge, breadth of industry reference, and balance of both detail vs clarity and objectivity vs subjectivity are aspirational.
First time watching as someone shared this on a FB group. Incredibly professional, and this person is surely highly educated from the way he managed to create the criteria and open up on them. Very reminiscent of what one would do in a qualitative dissertation.
Just re-watched one of your old vids where you predicted Tudor would overtake Omega. Would be fun to hear if you’re still sticking to that or would revisit that opinion now. Seeing the older video also made clear the effort you’ve put into improving the quality of your sound and video recording. Good job!
Mike you are phenomenal. As a fairly new watch enthusiast i greatly appreciate your perspective. You make this pass time very approachable and i thank you for your channel.
I love the application of intellectual horsepower to a subjective hobby. Always well thought out, a great set of options, and well thought through explanation of price points.
I’m having a difficult time classifying the PF as a sport watch. The simplicity of the design makes it absolutely elegant. Your description of the PF is spot on as is your model for determining value. Great job!
Logical and down to earth approach. No nonsense or temperamental opinion as I find on other watch channels. Always interesting, thank you for your good work!
I own a Bulgari Octo Finissimo Automatic (steel). Even the steel version is light and wears, as you say, like a dream. For me though, the value of this watch is in it's original and very bold design statement. Yes, it's a Gerald Genta design, but this luxury watch projects (to me) a refined masculine elegance that is truly unique. It hasn't proved to be very collectable yet, and may never, but many do regard it as a design icon. As others have said here, you are a pleasure to listen to, and your rational, considered, approach contrasts nicely with the bombastic sensational style of some others. Thanks!
This is probably the best, most interesting and educational watch-clip I’ve seen! How you split up all the angels of what a watch is and stands for is superb really! Just wondering what my next watch will be after this…;) Thanks! /J
Stellar analysis per usual. Whenever I’m pining for a watch, I look for your latest video and it calms me down, reminds me what matters and which/why watches interest me in the first place. Thanks & Happy New Year! ✨
I enjoyed this video and look forward to watching one for other watch styles such as dive, casual, dress, etc. Thanks for making such excellent and informative videos.
One of your best videos Mike. On behalf of the community, thank you for all you do! Quick question… I know you have been favorable to the IWC Mark XX in the past, but did not mention it in this video. Was it because you don’t consider it a sport watch or just too many watches to talk about for this video?
More because I just like to switch up the watches I talk about. I want to avoid getting repetitive (and inevitably someone in the comment will assume that I'm being paid by some brand because I mention them "too much"). To me it's a sports watch as much as it is a pilots watch Cheers 😀
I'm still a newbie but I started with your channel back in early October of this year so you were my first watch guru. This particular episode is crazy awesome. I don't want to call myself a fan girl but this deserves to be at the top of the heat for all watch enthusiasts!! CHEERS!!!🥂
I don't know what your background is, but it is evident from your discussions that you have a good knowledge of industrial processes and a business acumen that makes your presentations mentally stimulating, and enjoyable. As for criteria I use for evaluating a watch, in addition to those you have already mentioned, is how robust the build of the watch is and can still have a refined look. That is why I like the Rolex DateJust and Omega Aqua Terra.
I've always been a bit of a generalist, so usually the specialists either fall in two boxes - those that appreciate that I've taken the time to understand what they do just a little bit and those that think I know far to little about their field and add zero value. Myself: I just listen to people that are smarter than me to learn 😀😀 Cheers and thanks for watching
This channel provides some of the most insightful analysis that I have found online. That being said, the watches that give me the most joy are such because of an emotional connection I have with them. All vintage inspired - mid-century inspired or connected. Hamilton PSR, Hamilton Bronze Khaki Mechanical, Lorier Neptune 4. Showing my age I suppose, but these watches and their connection to a past... I find alluring, for some reason.
Another great analysis, well done. There’s none other I came across here has such articulation and deep understanding of the watch brands and the industry and lay it out in a structured manner to view it other than the brand marketing and user experiences. The more content I watch the more I am intrigued about your profession. Maybe you mentioned before but I can’t remember it. Have a wonderful new year celebration into 2025! 🎉🎊
Solid model Mike. Well considered as always. I might perhaps add a couple of points. One is that this is I think a consideration of what watch to buy on its own merit. But for many viewers, especially of this channel, we will also need to consider how a watch will sit amongst others in our collection. I also think, again more pertaining to the enthusiast perhaps, is that different spokes of your model will weight differently for different types of watches. Eg a chronograph. The movement will be super important, at least to me. Identity for a dress watch I think plays a bigger role than in other types of watch. Cartier for example can get away with selling you a battery operated movement in a steel case for well over a thousand pounds on a good quality but simple leather strap.
My aspirations have been to buy a few watches I could love forever (subjective) at prices I won’t lose sleep over (also subjective). My first “expensive” watch is still my favorite: Sinn 104. I’m currently planning to buy a BB58 if/when it gets a T-fit clasp. I am not likely to spend more money on one watch or have a large collection of watches. 4 or 5 will do. I heavily rely on enthusiasts like you to help me understand what makes for a valuable purchase and what is available in the market. This has also helped me, over time, to understand what I like. I hear about many watches on RUclips (Aquis, Spirit Zulu) then I think they might be candidates, then I try them on, then I walk away because they just weren’t right for me. I wouldn’t have known what was right for me without learning from enthusiasts like you. So, thank you!
Thanks for the clarity about the importance of identity in the higher segments. To be honest, that is also where i get my emotional attachment, and I admit to being a sucker for that. Also, I like that you ran the Royal oak backwards.
Another excellent video, Mike. Always appreciate your insight on the nuances of watchmaking itself and the business side of watchmaking. For me personally, I love all things horology but don't have the disposal income or patience to own high end watches. So the most important thing to me about a watch is whether or not it can take a beating and keep on ticking. (I work outdoors and dabble in triathlons during my time off, so I tend to be hard on watches and the safest bet is anything with a solar movement, good gaskets, screw down crowns and backs.)
Great video - as always - thanks Mike and please keep the content and thoughtful analysis coming. I would add the overall balance to the mix. This is where something like an overseas really differentiates from a Rolex. The considered balanced elegance of an overseas is hard to describe but it beats a Rolex with ease. It may not justify the jump in price, but the overseas on the wrist has that additional ingredient which only becomes apparent in the higher tiers. I’d also mention the overall package of an overseas - bracelet and 2 straps, the box and overall thoughtfulness of VC as an owner experience is far better than the plastic box from Rolex - a side comment, but it’s also not nothing!
The best channel in the business. Happy new year Mike. Citizen mentioned. Happy Days 🙂 Another great analysis 👌 For 500-2000$ price bucket it is really hard to beat some of the microbrands in my opinion. In terms of design, materials, specs, value for money and mostly fit & finish - big brands cannot compete. I'd take Farer, Christopher Ward, Direnzo, Wise, Zelos, or Baltic in place for Tissot, Longines, Hamilton, Mido, Certina, Seiko etc. all day, everyday. 💪
I have loved watches since I got a Mickey Mouse watch when I was about 10 year's old. I probably have 15 or 20 watches. I don't have any, "high end" watches. Most expensive or 'nicest' watch is a quartz TAG-Heuer that I overpaid for..........in a mall jewelry store almost 25 years ago. If I'm not mistaken, I paid $1,500..............25 years ago. It still works. I liked the look of the watch then. I still like the look of the watch. "So what?" I see near zero correlation between "quality" and price. I overstand that my phone or a $100 G-Shock will keep better time or is a more "logical" choice for tracking time, but I am of an age where I am uncomfortable if I'm not wearing a(n) (analog) watch. Recently, I was on a watch forum and was surprised to read how many people claimed to have returned Seiko Marinemaster's and Omega Planet Ocean's for some repair or another. I have a quartz Timex Reefgear Indiglo that I've had for probably 15 years. I don't remember purchasing it. Could not possibly have cost more than $75 (15 years ago). For about 5 years, I wore it 7 days per week, 2 of those days per week it was worn while performing manual labor. During that time it was routinely exposed to temperature extremes...........20 degrees F to 100 degrees F. For the last 5 years, the watch was, "lost". It was somewhere in the house, but I had no idea where, and wasn't really looking for it. Turns out the watch was out in an unheated garage..........in a drawer.........full of metal tools..........for 5 years. Found the watch 3 months ago........running.........at the correct time.........the illumination light on the dial still works........but get THIS........I cannot see a single scratch anywhere on the crystal, case, bezel, or metal band........the ONLY sign of use is a few barely visible scratches on the underside of the stamped clasp........on this 15 year old $75 watch. No Kryptonite case coating, no MEMS technology, no sapphire crystal, no triple powder coated Kevlar bezel. Go figure.
I appreciate your commentary about the differing values for manufacturing, craftsmanship, and brand identity. This is nice to hear when a lot of reviewers just recite spec sheets give a rating.
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch it’s true we can’t just ignore the specs, as a frame of reference helping people imagine the item without having it in hand, but they can’t be a crutch to bypass thoughtful commentary.
My Breitling Galactic 41 black dial big date is my ultimate watch. Checks off all the boxes and it’s my favorite in my 20 watch collection above the Speedmaster, Seamaster prof 300, Tudor GMT…looking for a longines GMT Zulu time 39mm next 😊
Also mentioned by Mike in this excellent edition, my #1 criterion is the law of diminishing returns. Purists scoff at thoughts of price as a key factor but sorry guys, it is. You cannot have a phrase like "Value Proposition" without considering ticket prices. Due to that and after many years of journey down the rabbit hole, my personal preference has focused on two niches in the market: 1) $500 to $1k watches. I derive more pleasure from watches in this price category than any other. Below that and quality is obviously lower. Above that and they tend to melt into one level of quality. Way above? I don't have the budget. I love finding the "cheap jewel" that gives me 95% of the luxury watch for 10% (or less) of the price. Recent top purchase: Baltic. 2) Pre-owned. Amazing what you can get for $2k if you have patience. Recent top purchase: An Omega virtual-NOS for $1200, the owner had worn it perhaps 5 times.
Hi Mike! That’s so cool that you put your “days till last purchase” icon in the end of the video xD Also i really really admire the fact that you actually have an excel with every watch you have and how much time you are spending with each one “down to the day”… amazing ocd really 🥰 Also very good info in the video! Didn’t saw any other talk about this! Very nice and thoughtful work! Keep it up 🤘🏼😎
Excellent video, one of the best and most concise as far as explaining quality and manufacturing vs craft levels. Should be a must watch video for new watch buyers possibly even older ones. 😅
Great video Mike and I like your model. I have explained appreciation of watches to friends in terms of design, engineering, and craftsmanship. I agree that Brand Identitity can be added to those criteria!
Most of the watches I have bought over a very long lifetime have fallen into the sub 500 range. Some of them have not only stood the test of time and wear, but design as well. Yes, at some point, like all watch enthusiasts, I will probably buy my "Holy Grail", but in the meantime the exceptionally clear information you provided helps me understand differences between certain price points for watches that I will continue to buy and wear on a daily basis. Thank you.
In the price range up to 1500 (grey market) my favourite would be the ML Aikon. Up to 4 sizes and 3 wristband options and a lot of color versions for the dial.
If anyone was looking to buy anything above a G Shock, they need to subscribe to this channel! Content produced only once per week is probably what makes your channel seem more sincere, or authentic. Some other content creators just throw one video after another at you and it comes off as a little too commercial. Teddy B is probably the best in the business, but that’s how his content feels. Having said that, I have learned more about watch brands and other details from him and his channel than ALL other sources combined. AND I’d definitely visit his store in Cleveland should the opportunity present itself.
Congratulations Mike for another awesome program. I much appreciate this approach you've made. It's truly a dissection (a surgical exposure) of these matters. It's quite useful this style , method, of doing things - to organize our thoughts while we are gaining knowledge to organize our own. Loved it. Cheers.
Very informative and well narrated video, cheers. I own a number of watches and the 2 that impress me the most are my Glashutte 70’s and my JLC Grande Reverso Duodate (limited edition ) both are incredibly well made and visually appealing. I have an older 16610 Rolex Submariner and Zenith El Primero “open heart” that are beautifully crafted too….keep up the great work of both educating us and entertaining us at the same time. Happy 2025.
This dude is f*kn absolutely underrated. His articulations, his explanation make him so enjoyable to listen to. Great work.
😊😊😊
I agree.
💯
Thanks a ton for that. Happy new year 😀😀
lol was about to comment that this guy knows what hes talking about and well articulated.
The best watch channel on RUclips, for me. This is the second video where you’ve done a phenomenal job in explaining how you define value, and at different price points. The addition of models and brands in each of these price tiers I’m sure will be incredibly helpful to people trying to sort through options when purchasing. Love the content. Appreciate what you do!
Glad to hear that my content resonates. Thanks 😀😀
I am a relatively new watch enthusiast and every time I watch one of your videos, I feel like I'm attending a graduate level seminar on horology, watch making, and the watch industry. What I appreciate most about your content is that you're gifting your viewers with thoughtful frameworks for how to evaluate watch purchases. Your channel should be mandatory viewing for every watch collector.
I am just a hobbyist. Not an expert, but I find it a fun challenge to understand the industry and watchmaking more and more 😀😀
Mike developing a model / algorithm doesn’t surprise me in the least.
It's the logical step, after the spreadsheet.
As soon as he said it; I said (aloud to my screen) “of course you are”. Mike is 1 of 1😂
Absolutely. If the video had started with “…and I haven’t developed a model to assess this, we’ll pretty much wing it”, AUDIBLE GASPS EVERYWHERE 😮
Bet it's going to be a kind of Glashutthe or go to Universal Geneve .... kind of bet there will be 2 editions 😊 with different calibre's /price matters ... a diver and a dress watch versions
I'm that predictable already? 😂😂
Wow Mike has over 85k subscribers. I remember when I first came across his channel and he was sub 25k, maybe less. It’s so heartwarming to see so many people gravitating to true educators and enthusiasts!! Bravo Michael 👏👏👏
It's been a good year thanks to you all 😀😀
This episode was super good. I'm a manufacturing engineer by profession, and it's crystal clear that you understand these things very well. I like your model as a comparison tool. Pretty straight forward. For me craft is the most complex parameter. It's really hard so understand what it adds to the experience of a watch. It's always a pleasure to look at good craftsmanship, but in my opinion it's easier to have a more consistent quality with a proper process, then handmade. But usually there is a feel to handmade things that's hard to quantify.
I have been a collector for a very short time and it's an affordable collection were my favorite is my Willard. But during this journey my mindset have changed a lot. I more or less only buy with my heart. And heritage and cool story connected to the watch is far more important than accuracy or power reserve. Also fit and finish is more important than specs.
I don't know if my thought made any sense. But anyway, thanks for a great episode and I wish you a good 2025.
Perfect sense to me. And I also agree.
Interesting. I find the story behind the watch and heritage absolutely meaningless. I don't care about marketing stories and "passion" and "we've made watches for a 150 years". I want it to hold time. I do value craft and handmade things, been doing it my whole life and it's part of my personality, I just hate when craft is overshadowd by branding in the final pricing - when it's not justified.
@@SarcastSempervirens Each to their own. But more or less nothing that you write about is what I'm talking about.
@ this is not only fair but sensible. I think one of the issues when it comes to luxury anything is that people are willing to spend a lot of money for that identity regardless of whether or not the mark up is justified. Heritage is important to some people like myself but not at the cost of overcharging ridiculously.
Thanks for that. As a layman on most things I value when someone that does something for a living (like being an actual mechanical engineering) acknowledges that I'm in the ballpark of "getting it".
Happy new year 😀😀
Next level video. So much original thought and not just regurgitation of specs. This is the best channel out there right now.
Thank you kindly 😀
Mike is so well informed and articulate about the multifaceted details of a watch that his vids are professorial. Thank you for these weekly updates and a great channel. Cheers!
cheers to you too 😀😀
At this point it's difficult for me to learn anything meaningful from watch YT content. But your content consistently delivers amazing insights. I feel like I am listening to a true industry insider.
Not an insider. Just viewing things from the outside which I feel is a fun perspective as well 😀😀
Another superb presentation Mike! Happy New Year to you and your family sir.
Happy new year 😀😀
What’s great about this, is that it helps watch enthusiasts determine their own priorities, provides a framework for determining how to assess “value”. In theory this approach will save enthusiasts from the constant buying and selling (and usually losing money in the process) that historically is required to gain experience and determine preferences and priorities. Great job. And happy new year to you and your loved ones.
Happy new year to you too😀😀
Thanks for all your content in 2024 Mike. Glad I found your channel. Learned a ton about watches and always enjoy your videos 🍻
Happy new year!
Watched this twice, I generally don’t buy anything that costs more than one thousand, so I have a few NH movements, accuracy is so so, but I don’t think it matters too much, they are good enough, my circle of friends doesn’t do watches, so I buy for me, Rolex is a benchmark that I don’t need to reach, but understanding the benchmarks for various levels of perceived quality is important. Love this watch channel.
I'm still new to the hobby having been in it for about 2 years and only having the funds for maybe 2 watches a year at the $500-$1000 range. There's so many things I learn here that you just articulate extremely well to help guide me through the watch landscape. Thank you so much for your videos!
I don't comment on your videos enough, but this channel is great! Love your style of presentation and how you explain your reasoning
Thanks for watching 😀😀
I saw you on Teddy‘s year-end video and got so excited and it was that point I realized, “Wow I’m a fanboy.” And you know what? I’m super cool with that.
I have a fan! Yay 😀😀😀😀😀❤️
At the end of the day, your favourite watch youtuber is the one you agree with the most… probably 😂 i don’t agree with everything you say but i just think you have a mostly object opinion on the watch industry nobody else has has! And I appreciate that very much. You and tim mosso are my favourites. Keep it up mike ❤️
Thanks so very very much - Really appreciated 😀😀
your level and depth of knowledge and ability to communicate this and place in context, is unparalleled. Thank you for your service!
It’s been a pleasure meeting you this year. Looking forward to the next. 100k just round the corner. 🎉
Thanks for watching as always 😀😀
Fantastic video as always Mike - the comparison elements were so clear and summed up the offerings so well. You and ID Guy bring such a clear defined approach to watches with no hype.
Happy new year 😀😀 and thanks of course
Truly enjoyed your discussion. Please continue to share your passion and perspective. Thank you.
Will try my best at least. Thank you to you too 😀😀
Probably the most valuable RUclips channel on watches out there right now. Andrew Morgan and Tim Mosso give you humorous personal opinion and precise mechanical description respectively at the highest level, but Mike gives you a breakdown of strategy, a comprehensive overview of the brands and offers a great model for comparison across watches at similar and differing price-points
Thanks for the praise. Not sure I deserve it, but thanks nevertheless 😀😀
Nice PF shoutout - they deserve more love. I bought the GMT Rattrapante a little while back and it hasn't left my wrist since. Ultra comfortable and understated.
Can’t count how many times I’ve watched these videos and agree exactly with what is said. Spot on as always!
I try and follow the keep it simple stupid idea. If I like the watch and I can reasonably afford it. I buy it. I also look for how comfortable it is on my wrist(which comes down to proportions, machining tolerances, etc). Great video, happy new years!
Mike, I enjoy immensely all your videos. Your ideas introduce structure in this massively chaotic and emotional hobby. Thank you!
I love my Gentlemen. Green sector dial. Got it for Christmas two years ago. It is still one of my absolute favorites. I treated it to the leather strap with deployant buckle from Tissot. Gives it a whole different feel on the leather. The bracelet is great even though there is no micro adjust and a butterfly clasp, I still get a great fit.
It’s not often that you’ll get watch folks on RUclips letting you know about what manufacturers make what for different watch brands. This knowledge is excellent and very rarely shared. So refreshing and transparent
I try. Thanks for watching 😀
Mike is the best on YT by a country mile. No shiller filler all watch content killer!
I try at least. Hopefully I won't disappoint too often 😀
Greatly enjoyed your videos this year. Looking forward to the new year. Thanks Mike
Happy new year 😀😀
Yet another superb video. If/when I ever produce content in my own area of expertise I hope it’s this good. Mike’s level of technical knowledge, breadth of industry reference, and balance of both detail vs clarity and objectivity vs subjectivity are aspirational.
First time watching as someone shared this on a FB group. Incredibly professional, and this person is surely highly educated from the way he managed to create the criteria and open up on them. Very reminiscent of what one would do in a qualitative dissertation.
Thanks for watching 😀
Just re-watched one of your old vids where you predicted Tudor would overtake Omega. Would be fun to hear if you’re still sticking to that or would revisit that opinion now.
Seeing the older video also made clear the effort you’ve put into improving the quality of your sound and video recording. Good job!
Best watch channel on the internet.
Happy New Year Mike.
Happy new year 😀😀
Mike you are phenomenal. As a fairly new watch enthusiast i greatly appreciate your perspective. You make this pass time very approachable and i thank you for your channel.
Thanks for watching and Happy new year 😀😀
I love the application of intellectual horsepower to a subjective hobby. Always well thought out, a great set of options, and well thought through explanation of price points.
Nice to see some love for PF
I’m having a difficult time classifying the PF as a sport watch. The simplicity of the design makes it absolutely elegant. Your description of the PF is spot on as is your model for determining value. Great job!
Logical and down to earth approach. No nonsense or temperamental opinion as I find on other watch channels. Always interesting, thank you for your good work!
I own a Bulgari Octo Finissimo Automatic (steel). Even the steel version is light and wears, as you say, like a dream. For me though, the value of this watch is in it's original and very bold design statement. Yes, it's a Gerald Genta design, but this luxury watch projects (to me) a refined masculine elegance that is truly unique. It hasn't proved to be very collectable yet, and may never, but many do regard it as a design icon. As others have said here, you are a pleasure to listen to, and your rational, considered, approach contrasts nicely with the bombastic sensational style of some others. Thanks!
This is probably the best, most interesting and educational watch-clip I’ve seen! How you split up all the angels of what a watch is and stands for is superb really! Just wondering what my next watch will be after this…;) Thanks! /J
Thanks for the feedback (and for watching). Cheers😀😀
Stellar analysis per usual. Whenever I’m pining for a watch, I look for your latest video and it calms me down, reminds me what matters and which/why watches interest me in the first place. Thanks & Happy New Year! ✨
I enjoyed this video and look forward to watching one for other watch styles such as dive, casual, dress, etc. Thanks for making such excellent and informative videos.
Really like you're channel Mike... To me this is a gem of an watch channel... great content presented in an really laidback way..
Thanks for watching 😀😀😀
Hi Mike, another 1st video. You have improved my insight in to the watch world so much.. and I thank you for that.
Top-notch, informative content as always.
Love this channel. No bs just great info
Glad you enjoy it!
This guy is excellent. He is knowledgeable and pleasant to listen to
One of your best videos Mike. On behalf of the community, thank you for all you do! Quick question… I know you have been favorable to the IWC Mark XX in the past, but did not mention it in this video. Was it because you don’t consider it a sport watch or just too many watches to talk about for this video?
More because I just like to switch up the watches I talk about. I want to avoid getting repetitive (and inevitably someone in the comment will assume that I'm being paid by some brand because I mention them "too much").
To me it's a sports watch as much as it is a pilots watch
Cheers 😀
I'm still a newbie but I started with your channel back in early October of this year so you were my first watch guru. This particular episode is crazy awesome. I don't want to call myself a fan girl but this deserves to be at the top of the heat for all watch enthusiasts!! CHEERS!!!🥂
Happy new year 😀😀
Citizen's Tsuyosa line is one of my favorites in the sub-500 price point, but now I have the Zenshin to check out too...
Money doesn't spend itself. 😂
Happy new years 😀
I don't know what your background is, but it is evident from your discussions that you have a good knowledge of industrial processes and a business acumen that makes your presentations mentally stimulating, and enjoyable. As for criteria I use for evaluating a watch, in addition to those you have already mentioned, is how robust the build of the watch is and can still have a refined look. That is why I like the Rolex DateJust and Omega Aqua Terra.
I've always been a bit of a generalist, so usually the specialists either fall in two boxes - those that appreciate that I've taken the time to understand what they do just a little bit and those that think I know far to little about their field and add zero value.
Myself: I just listen to people that are smarter than me to learn 😀😀
Cheers and thanks for watching
This channel provides some of the most insightful analysis that I have found online. That being said, the watches that give me the most joy are such because of an emotional connection I have with them. All vintage inspired - mid-century inspired or connected. Hamilton PSR, Hamilton Bronze Khaki Mechanical, Lorier Neptune 4. Showing my age I suppose, but these watches and their connection to a past... I find alluring, for some reason.
I love watching your videos, it’s like having a conversation with the partner of my consulting firm
Hopefully not - He's just going to make you bill more hours so his equity share grows 😂
Another great analysis, well done.
There’s none other I came across here has such articulation and deep understanding of the watch brands and the industry and lay it out in a structured manner to view it other than the brand marketing and user experiences.
The more content I watch the more I am intrigued about your profession. Maybe you mentioned before but I can’t remember it.
Have a wonderful new year celebration into 2025! 🎉🎊
Solid model Mike. Well considered as always.
I might perhaps add a couple of points.
One is that this is I think a consideration of what watch to buy on its own merit.
But for many viewers, especially of this channel, we will also need to consider how a watch will sit amongst others in our collection.
I also think, again more pertaining to the enthusiast perhaps, is that different spokes of your model will weight differently for different types of watches.
Eg a chronograph. The movement will be super important, at least to me.
Identity for a dress watch I think plays a bigger role than in other types of watch. Cartier for example can get away with selling you a battery operated movement in a steel case for well over a thousand pounds on a good quality but simple leather strap.
This is your best of '24. Yes! We need more models!
Of course we do 😂😂
Wonderful presentation! I really appreciate the model- it is a great way organize one's thoughts!!
Clear, calm, reasonable - happy new year to the style icon of watches!
My aspirations have been to buy a few watches I could love forever (subjective) at prices I won’t lose sleep over (also subjective). My first “expensive” watch is still my favorite: Sinn 104. I’m currently planning to buy a BB58 if/when it gets a T-fit clasp. I am not likely to spend more money on one watch or have a large collection of watches. 4 or 5 will do. I heavily rely on enthusiasts like you to help me understand what makes for a valuable purchase and what is available in the market. This has also helped me, over time, to understand what I like. I hear about many watches on RUclips (Aquis, Spirit Zulu) then I think they might be candidates, then I try them on, then I walk away because they just weren’t right for me. I wouldn’t have known what was right for me without learning from enthusiasts like you. So, thank you!
Lots of videos do reviews. Yours provide data and perspective - thank you.
My pleasure 😀😀
Another excellent video Mike. Always look forward to your spot on analysis of the Watch Market. Great work as always my friend ✊
Thanks for the clarity about the importance of identity in the higher segments. To be honest, that is also where i get my emotional attachment, and I admit to being a sucker for that. Also, I like that you ran the Royal oak backwards.
Another excellent video, Mike. Always appreciate your insight on the nuances of watchmaking itself and the business side of watchmaking. For me personally, I love all things horology but don't have the disposal income or patience to own high end watches. So the most important thing to me about a watch is whether or not it can take a beating and keep on ticking. (I work outdoors and dabble in triathlons during my time off, so I tend to be hard on watches and the safest bet is anything with a solar movement, good gaskets, screw down crowns and backs.)
Great video - as always - thanks Mike and please keep the content and thoughtful analysis coming.
I would add the overall balance to the mix. This is where something like an overseas really differentiates from a Rolex. The considered balanced elegance of an overseas is hard to describe but it beats a Rolex with ease. It may not justify the jump in price, but the overseas on the wrist has that additional ingredient which only becomes apparent in the higher tiers. I’d also mention the overall package of an overseas - bracelet and 2 straps, the box and overall thoughtfulness of VC as an owner experience is far better than the plastic box from Rolex - a side comment, but it’s also not nothing!
Good addition 😀😀
Great to finally see u dressing the part that matches ur insights. Keep it up. Happy new year! 🎉
The best channel in the business. Happy new year Mike.
Citizen mentioned. Happy Days 🙂
Another great analysis 👌
For 500-2000$ price bucket it is really hard to beat some of the microbrands in my opinion. In terms of design, materials, specs, value for money and mostly fit & finish - big brands cannot compete. I'd take Farer, Christopher Ward, Direnzo, Wise, Zelos, or Baltic in place for Tissot, Longines, Hamilton, Mido, Certina, Seiko etc. all day, everyday. 💪
Happy new years 😀😀
Great video. I have fallen hard in love with the new Tonda PF line and indeed so much so I am selling my newly acquired RO to get one.
Enjoyed the informative presentation. Well done Sir.
Thanks
I have loved watches since I got a Mickey Mouse watch when I was about 10 year's old. I probably have 15 or 20 watches. I don't have any, "high end" watches. Most expensive or 'nicest' watch is a quartz TAG-Heuer that I overpaid for..........in a mall jewelry store almost 25 years ago. If I'm not mistaken, I paid $1,500..............25 years ago. It still works. I liked the look of the watch then. I still like the look of the watch.
"So what?"
I see near zero correlation between "quality" and price. I overstand that my phone or a $100 G-Shock will keep better time or is a more "logical" choice for tracking time, but I am of an age where I am uncomfortable if I'm not wearing a(n) (analog) watch.
Recently, I was on a watch forum and was surprised to read how many people claimed to have returned Seiko Marinemaster's and Omega Planet Ocean's for some repair or another. I have a quartz Timex Reefgear Indiglo that I've had for probably 15 years. I don't remember purchasing it. Could not possibly have cost more than $75 (15 years ago). For about 5 years, I wore it 7 days per week, 2 of those days per week it was worn while performing manual labor. During that time it was routinely exposed to temperature extremes...........20 degrees F to 100 degrees F. For the last 5 years, the watch was, "lost". It was somewhere in the house, but I had no idea where, and wasn't really looking for it. Turns out the watch was out in an unheated garage..........in a drawer.........full of metal tools..........for 5 years. Found the watch 3 months ago........running.........at the correct time.........the illumination light on the dial still works........but get THIS........I cannot see a single scratch anywhere on the crystal, case, bezel, or metal band........the ONLY sign of use is a few barely visible scratches on the underside of the stamped clasp........on this 15 year old $75 watch. No Kryptonite case coating, no MEMS technology, no sapphire crystal, no triple powder coated Kevlar bezel. Go figure.
Hats off to you sir! Your love of watches comes through, and you enjoy wearing your watches! The essence of a true collector. Have a Happy New Year🥂
I appreciate your commentary about the differing values for manufacturing, craftsmanship, and brand identity. This is nice to hear when a lot of reviewers just recite spec sheets give a rating.
I find the recitation of specs incredibly boring. I do it as well just to go through the motions but it does very little for me 😀😀
@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch it’s true we can’t just ignore the specs, as a frame of reference helping people imagine the item without having it in hand, but they can’t be a crutch to bypass thoughtful commentary.
Happy New Year Mike & ThisWatchThatWatch community
Happy new year 😀😀
Looking forward to seeing the model you’re working on. It’s one thing to critique, a completely different one to create.
As always, thought provoking and insightful. Thanks, Mike.
My Breitling Galactic 41 black dial big date is my ultimate watch. Checks off all the boxes and it’s my favorite in my 20 watch collection above the Speedmaster, Seamaster prof 300, Tudor GMT…looking for a longines GMT Zulu time 39mm next 😊
You did your homework for this video and articulated it extremely well. A great video!
Thanks and Happy new year 😀😀
By far my favorite watch channel. Thanks, Mike, insightful content, per usual.
(Now picture Comic Book Store Guy saying “Best. WatchTuber. Ever.”)
Love the reference. Cheers ❤️❤️
Superb video. One of your best. Thank you.
Thanks a ton for that 😀😀
Superb… So well thought out and articulated. Thank you and happy new year.
Happy new year 😀😀
Nearly a half-hour video felt like just 5 minutes. Incredible job-keep it up!
Will try. Thanks 😀
Also mentioned by Mike in this excellent edition, my #1 criterion is the law of diminishing returns. Purists scoff at thoughts of price as a key factor but sorry guys, it is. You cannot have a phrase like "Value Proposition" without considering ticket prices. Due to that and after many years of journey down the rabbit hole, my personal preference has focused on two niches in the market:
1) $500 to $1k watches. I derive more pleasure from watches in this price category than any other. Below that and quality is obviously lower. Above that and they tend to melt into one level of quality. Way above? I don't have the budget. I love finding the "cheap jewel" that gives me 95% of the luxury watch for 10% (or less) of the price. Recent top purchase: Baltic.
2) Pre-owned. Amazing what you can get for $2k if you have patience. Recent top purchase: An Omega virtual-NOS for $1200, the owner had worn it perhaps 5 times.
Mike, Happy New Year. This is your most awesome horological watch video yet. I am learning so much . Thank you 🙏
Happy new year 😀😀
Hi Mike! That’s so cool that you put your “days till last purchase” icon in the end of the video xD
Also i really really admire the fact that you actually have an excel with every watch you have and how much time you are spending with each one “down to the day”… amazing ocd really 🥰
Also very good info in the video! Didn’t saw any other talk about this! Very nice and thoughtful work! Keep it up 🤘🏼😎
OCD is the best disorder 😂
Excellent video, one of the best and most concise as far as explaining quality and manufacturing vs craft levels. Should be a must watch video for new watch buyers possibly even older ones. 😅
Glad you enjoyed it
Great video Mike and I like your model. I have explained appreciation of watches to friends in terms of design, engineering, and craftsmanship. I agree that Brand Identitity can be added to those criteria!
I have „discovered“ your channel and Aevig watches this year.
You offer brilliant analysis,
Aevig offers brilliant design in the below 800€ league.
Mike is the best. Grown so fast because he knows his opinions! 😊
Most of the watches I have bought over a very long lifetime have fallen into the sub 500 range. Some of them have not only stood the test of time and wear, but design as well. Yes, at some point, like all watch enthusiasts, I will probably buy my "Holy Grail", but in the meantime the exceptionally clear information you provided helps me understand differences between certain price points for watches that I will continue to buy and wear on a daily basis. Thank you.
Thank you so much for explaining why I prefer Longines over Tudor, and Omega over Rolex.
Happy new year!
happy new year 😀😀
Bought a LV gmt years ago, got invited to LV events all year🎉
In the price range up to 1500 (grey market) my favourite would be the ML Aikon. Up to 4 sizes and 3 wristband options and a lot of color versions for the dial.
You are very articulate and logical. Well done!
I try, thanks for watching 😀😀
Very useful and interesting video. Thanks and keep up the good work.
If anyone was looking to buy anything above a G Shock, they need to subscribe to this channel! Content produced only once per week is probably what makes your channel seem more sincere, or authentic. Some other content creators just throw one video after another at you and it comes off as a little too commercial. Teddy B is probably the best in the business, but that’s how his content feels. Having said that, I have learned more about watch brands and other details from him and his channel than ALL other sources combined. AND I’d definitely visit his store in Cleveland should the opportunity present itself.
Astonishingly brilliant analysis.
Thanks
Handsome jacket, Mike! Wishing you and your family a wonderful New Year!
Happy new year 😀😀
Congratulations Mike for another awesome program. I much appreciate this approach you've made. It's truly a dissection (a surgical exposure) of these matters.
It's quite useful this style , method, of doing things - to organize our thoughts while we are gaining knowledge to organize our own.
Loved it.
Cheers.
Cheers and happy new years 😀😀
Fantastic recommendations Mike! I hope you had a great Christmas!
Very informative and well narrated video, cheers. I own a number of watches and the 2 that impress me the most are my Glashutte 70’s and my JLC Grande Reverso Duodate (limited edition ) both are incredibly well made and visually appealing. I have an older 16610 Rolex Submariner and Zenith El Primero “open heart” that are beautifully crafted too….keep up the great work of both educating us and entertaining us at the same time. Happy 2025.
Happy New Year! Keep up the excellent work …. Love the analytical aspects of your arguments
Happy new year 😀😀