I purchased the standard version a few days back and have been wearing it this week. These models work well for those like myself who are starting to look for better quality but perhaps don't yet have the knowledge of what makes for a great movement. I was able to spend a little more than I have in the past to experience what great finishing quality and design looks like without having to forkout the premium price tag for a better movement when I wouldn't really appreciate why it's better. It's a stepping stone that will help educate me in my future purchases and serves as a great looking watch to own in the meantime.
Rather than salmon, the dials look more like a sandy gold. At first glance I thought the three hand model dial was a pie pan. The Bicompax looks like the whole drum kit’s cymbals. Either way a gorgeous watch. The hands do look French. Elegant, subtle, serene.
All respect to the movement geeks, but I'm an aesthetics-first guy. Is it nice to get a nicer movement? Sure. But I'd rather get a stunning exterior instead, if there's got to be a compromise. If there was some sort of actual rule that a more premium movement would perform better, I guess that would be one thing. But at least as far as my excursions into pricier watches go, I'm not noticing any significant difference between a typical NH35 and a nicer Swiss movement.
Wish all watches had less text. Brand name or logo, model name or number is enough. Don't need water depth reminder on the dial. Don't need automatic, quartz, mechanical reminder, I think I can figure it out.
Exactly the two reasons why I’m return it: legibility and movement. I’d be happy to spend even double to get a good movement. Exterior point of view, dimensions and wearability it’s all great.
"The watch isn't what I want it to be, so I don't like it as much" I mean I get it, but kind of a weird take. If you want the full package, including the "great movement" (something people in this price range don't care about) - then buy a more expensive watch...?
I have the bicompax, salmon dial, open caseback, on the flat link bracelet. For $625, I’m impressed. It’s quite light - almost too light, but for the price point, it’s a hell of a fun watch.
The flat link bracelet echoes the dial’s segmentation. The way to go for a design harkening another era. The hard choice is whether to choose the Bicompax’ extra complications or the HMX’ simplicity. I ‘m leaning toward the simplicity. One doesn’t need the chrono clutter plungers, nor the chrono function. Even though the subs look cool, sometimes less is more.
I am fine with the cheap (read inexpensive) movement and expensive looking dial and price where it is. For accurate time, there are smart phones and smart watches available for it. If you must want a mechanical watch with accurate time then you have those expensive swiss watches available for you (even those are not very accurate). Most of the time I look at my mechanical watches just to get the approx. time. I almost never have a need to do accurate time to the sec.
Gorgeous watches! The thing I like about Baltic is that the brand has managed to form a strong identity in such a short time. I recognized them as "Baltic" even from the thumbnail. Had they been from another brand, I would have thought of them as "Baltic homages". That's impressive. I also live that they're offering their customers the BEST quality design and finishing you can get for the price. I understand your qualm about the movement. I too wish they used better quality movements. But, then they'd become just another $1000-1500 microbrand. In this price range, they're something special.
Love love love the look of the HMS! I can’t imagine the scratches that a bracelet with polished external links will pick up. Also, if they’re going to go Miyota, at least use the 9000 series… that dial though…
That seagull movement is good for 50hrs btw in my experience , granted it would've been nice to at least have a 9 series but for those who just like the watch the upgraded 8 series is as good and reliable movement that'll serve them well baring in mind the idea is its affordability.
These are cool new additions to their excellent catalog. I really feel the salmon/copper dial should have had blue accents like the silver dial... If not at least a darkened (gunmetal) metallic finish to add some contrast to that particular colorway
Id love to own a Baltic. They seem to only make smaller watches though. Their dive watch is the only watch i could pull off. The mr01 is the one i like.
Great review and beautiful watches. I like the concept of a super quality finished watch with an affordable movement in a price range up to €3.000. Above this price I expect attention to the movement and not a standard Swiss one with a signed rotor.... So perfect choice for me.
Fair review though I believe that the value proposition and attention to detail more than balance movement selection unless the time-grapher says otherwise. Good work Peter, Thank you! 👍🏾
To me, the aesthetics, dimensions and decent WR are far more important than the movement itself, but that's just me. I'm open to all kinds of bracelets, but for some reason, I never could get the hang of being a fan of rice bead pattern. Would you consider doing a review of the controversial Waldhoff Multimatic II?
Peter I recently bought the MR01 model with the salmon dial. Yes it’s not ideal legibility wise, at certain times? But during the day it’s absolutely stunning! I also have the Aquascaphe which is a fantastic legible watch. Dial choice is individual. As for the hesalite crystal, aesthetically it fits with the era, style of watch. I don’t have an issue at all with the ST1901 movement. Sure MAYBE a Swiss movement would be good, but price would be somewhat higher wouldn’t it? I have at least a dozen watches I’ve bought over the years with the ST1901 movement & never had an issue. I’m not overly concerned with the movement or the hours it runs. I can handle that!🤣👍🏼
Took me awhile to decide between the MR01 salmon and silver. Ended up with the silver but would’ve been happy with either. Dimensions are perfect for me and only gripe is the lack of the second hand hacking.
Great video Pete. I have an MR01, and so far it’s been great. I agree with you that it would be nice to see a more premium movement model, but I do also love the affordability of the current movements. I think they should offer both options!
I would buy one if it had a better movement, safierglas instead of hesalite and 10atm. I know the price would be double but the design is really nice so I would pick one up.
For the chrono it would be triple at the least but I do agree that they should have gone with a Miyota 9000 for the 3 hander. I don't mind acrylic or water resistance though, 50m is plenty enough for daily use and maybe even swimming (the stuff you see on the internet about how 30m is barely enough for handwashing, dynamic pressure yadda yadda, etc is really overblown).
The first design of the HMS with the silver and cream dial and blue hands would always have been the obvious match for me from Baltic. Unfortunately, movement, hesalite, blue but not blued hands, those elements let the proposition down. The design was there, perhaps even with the materials chosen, the execution was there, but this was not a sufficiently convincing package. I'm not entirely sure if that would still be the case if only the movement was off, for me. Still, if that is such a money saver, effectively the watches are still relatively expensive. Considering what other brands achieve with better movements at similar prices. Perhaps there is a difference in finish that only hands-on experience will give away. And definitely Baltic can design a good watch. All that aside, I'm not sure these models are made for either of these bracelets, but that could be down to personal preference.
I ordered the salmon 003 chrono (1 month wait) and I don't care - looks amazing and if it lasts 5-6 years that will be great, I hope to have moved to Longines or similar by then. It's all fine and dandy to want a swiss movement but the price would quadruple even with something standard as 510m.
1 month wait on the Salmon Bicompax 003? I'm in the US and it's showing shipping / delivery of 3 to 5 days. The only wait I'm aware of is for any of the models paired with the black strap.
@@ryan2vs Funny that you pointed that out. Yes I did choose the black leather strap and that appears to be exactly what's holding back the deliveries till early Sept. Ah well..
We've been a bit spoiled with crowns. If youre going for vintage dress watch looks you more or less have to go with a smaller crown, because most of them did have little finger breaking bastards on them back then. God only knows why, because you had to wind them daily, but I guess they thought a large crown would ruin the proportions.
These are very beautiful watches. As much as I find them attractive, I just can't see myself wearing one on a daily basis. I am one of those people that will only purchase a watch if I see it as a daily driver. I realize that probably doesn't make much sense, since I rotate my watches daily. Anyway, great review of some very attractive watches.
On those salmon dials, if one is drawn to them as a romantic, they’re probably more prone to a double take anyway, so they really won’t mind looking twice or thrice to gauge the time 😂
Love the dials and size but the movement is s complete NO for me. It’s a pity, with a Swiss movement they have margin to charge more for such beautiful design. Thanks for the video
I had a Baltic for the last two years, sent it back to France to be repaired 3 separate times. They never did fix my watch. It was a nice looking watch, but it’s dangerous to consider using it for dives.
i am guessing Baltic did some homework and decided design and finish will be the better selling factors than internal movement. most watch buyers are not clued into watching youtube watch aficionados such as the fab one we are watching now!
You’re not wrong. I think if Baltic put in Swiss movement, it’s likely they will bank in more customers. They will move up to compete with Farer. However I feel at this price point they have found their sweet spot.
I have a Baltic MR01 and a Farer Lander, from my observations there is still a gap in build quality and finishing. Baltic is very good at their price point no doubt but Farer is still just a bit better.
For someone writing a review, you seem not to have thought this through. I think these watches are too sophisticated for you, and you don't understand what they are trying to achieve. I have two Baltics and am about to buy my third. They are brilliant watches, for when you want something a bit more relaxed and subtle. They still show you love watches, but on a night out, no one is going to be irritated by your choice of watch. That can be a huge positive in this day and age. Hopefully you can catch up soon, and appreciate what this amazing brand is doing. And for the record, the Miyota movement is an excellent one.
It's no so much the movements I struggle with. It's the hesalite crystals they offer as the only option for some watches. Don't get me wrong, I like the brand. I own a dual crown Aquascaphe and I love it. Nothing wrong with the Miyota 9039 in that watch.
Great review and I love both of those watches. I have a blue Aquascaphe which is 39mm and although I love it that is as small as I would buy. I would definitely get the bicompax but anything 36 point something in size is just far too small for me. A 40/41mm would look fantastic.
I wish they would have used the Miyota 9039 in the HMS watch. To me that movement is just as good if not better than the ETA, Sellita, or Soprod movements.
These look absolutely great, and 36mm is back baby! Since they are 20mm lug width, I would suggest a heavy tapered strap... from 20-16mm. Seagull no, but Miyota is fine. If Baltic is listening... go with a quartz Miyota but without the seconds hand (clean and static on that regular model), leather, solid back...$250...$280ish... that would be fantastic! If they put Selita in there Pete... that watch is $800 + tax...$950. It doesn't make sense. You go Alpinist then. You are not buying Baltic. So...this is fine, again go cheaper, quartz without second. Oh and Seagull is better than mecaquartz at least. Its real without plastic. Stay with Seagull. Baltic, good.
I have never understood the idiom of, "You can't have your cake and eat it too!" It is a weird saying. It is cake. What the hell else would you do with it? Refinish the driveway? Organize a labor union? Build the worlds largest jenga tower? The saying has never made a lick of sense to me.
Quite the opposite, it makes perfect sense if you think about it. If you eat the cake, you no longer have it. If you decide to keep it, you can’t taste it. In other words, sometimes you can’t have both and need to choose between two options.
They are not the worst movements, the Miyota movement is a work horse and powers many watches at that price but a 9000 series movement would have been better, as for the sea gull I would have preferred a Vk quartz movement Lovely looking watches though at a great budget Great review as always Pete 👍
For me the main issue is their dial size. I think it is a bit too small. I would prefer a 39mm, especially for the chronograph. That is probably the main reason why they are not very legible. Yes I have handled these watches at a local watch show and that was my first and only gripe with these. For reference, I do own their AQUASCAPHE in blue gilt.
Baltic is a fashion brand watch. Great looking watch, affordable price, and decent movement. They don't want you to work for their watch like Rolex, they want you to buy and buy again. I feel the same way regarding this brand as you. Can't wait for your next video, cheers.
Fashion brand? The accepted definition is a watch made for Boss, Diesel, or other such clothing brands, that extend them to cheap, generally quartz watches, that only have a value from the brand label attached to them. Baltic is the very antithesis of that. You need to meet the people who work for them. Then you'd understand.
I'm so bloody bored about people bleating on about power reserve. It's bs. Why the hell would you want a big power reserve, oh, so i can take my watch off on Friday and its still running on Monday. Do you do that with your car? Of course you don't because it will need being serviced more often and therefore be more expensive to run. How hard is that to understand?
Hey Gary, Im fine with your standard 38 hours on an auto, however with a manual wind I have a preference of higher PR because I tend to forget to wind it over the period of a few days...that's just me Is it a deal breaker?..nope, just saying cheers
I like the dials, but the Seagull ST1901 is a deal breaker. I've had a few fail and ended up in the parts bin. I shy away from throw-away or problematic movements these days.
Big contributing factor to the problem is a lot of watches with these Seagull movements are from low cost/Chinese brands that don't spend much if any time or money at all on quality control to cut costs. I'd still be comfortable with the movement if the watches come from a reputable maker, and good customer service also goes a long way.
Peter, I enjoy your channel. This episode though I hear A lot of watch snobby seeping in. Watches are emotional items for us geeks and we deserve affordable quality also.
Hey Douglas, Im all for affordable as you probably already know.. Maybe Baltic could offer these in the current configuration for affordability sake and also offer and upgradable option fr those seeking that little bit extra...just a thought I only say this because the watch looks so good, it could easily cater for both markets.. As for watch snobbery, I hope I didn't come across that way 🙏 cheers
These are nice enough but fail in the content for value realm. The case and dial of each are really great. The movements are inadequate for the price point.
A miyota 8000 series???? No.... I could accept a 9,000 series... Even though I'm still annoyed at miota for the one directional rotor. I should have updated that by now! But I with by this watch no matter how good it is within 8,000 series movement! Especially a normal three-hand 8000 series movement. I'm actually surprised about that
Hey Pete you hit the nail on the head. The finishes, style and aesthetic of the watches all superb. But as you said it is the choice of cheap Japanese and Chinese movements warrants a thumbs down. I'd be willing to pay an extra $150 for a mid range Selita 200. I'd be interested to hear if you put the watches on a timegrapher.
I just put these on the timegrapher today to check them out, they are gaining over 25-30 sec each...which is strange because the dual crown which I tested a while back was pretty accurate
Baltic are a great micro brands but yep movement is key - I’d say formex Christopher ward and MONTA are no longer micro they all very near the top of mid range - Baltic may want to make the step up.
I don't know why, but the bezel situation just feels like it's unfinished. I don't mean like finishing, i mean, like it is missing a piece or something, but something is supposed to be there, that isn't.
Sorry for being the odd one out. but there is one thing about these watches that I do not like. plastic crystals. I would rather pay a little more for sapphire. so... too cheap for me.
Yeah must admit they look great but no use having a see through caseback the movement is its biggest flaw Im the same as you it just doesnt do anything for me
Gorgeous watches, but like you, the price/movement leaves me scratching my head. I see it the opposite of you, how can they charge so much for a watch that has the same movement as $150 to $200 USD watches? Put a basic ETA or SW movement (or even a Miyota/NH) and THEN you can charge around $500 USD.
@@jkhcu Highly disagree. The Miyota 9000 series has plenty of chronographs and they can still sell it at 600€ and make decent profit. At this price point with a seagull it is pretty much a rip off.
Honestly Peter this video is hillarious. You have watch that is brilliantly priced, well designed, executed at a very high level and yet you complain they ARE TOO CHEAP? Because of view like this, watch companies set these ridiculous prices for watches we see today. Don't you like Miyota movement? Is Seagull not good enough for you? My god, get a watch, ask the manufacturer (or your favoirite watchmaker) to swap the movement for Sellita or ETA if you REALLY want one. But complainong the watch is too cheap? Complaining about well known, reliable movements? You sound like a spoiled child, Peter. Sorry to say that.
Hey Tommy, no need to apologise bro..I hear what you're saying I hope its not the spoilt child in me or the 'watch snob' talking..I was trying to be as genuine and sincere in my approach to these pieces.. I completely understand the logic behind Baltic's choices to keep the prices affordable with lesser movements in these..its just that they feel a mismatch to me The eye candy, quality finish and design execution is so well done, maybe I am just accustomed to thinking theres a higher grade Swiss movement or something that needs to be under the hood..thats all cheers 🥃
A very low end miyota and a chinese movement for the chrono.... too cheap? I think quite the opposite, Baltic's owner is putting a huge mark-up over chinese watches with his logo
I don't know why my comment got moderated for intimating that i didn't agree necessarily on value or the persisting notion that swiss is best at all costs. I like your video editing but i'm out. Unsubscribed
Who moderated your comment???..which comment? I don't moderate or delete comments, however sometimes YT doesn't allow a comment to be posted for whatever reasons it sees fit Sorry to see you go...cheers
Seagull movement? I'll pass, that m*vement is very difficult to service and its cheaper to replace it than to service it, and I don't want to wear a box that I replace its movement every while I'd gladly pay double the price for a better movement though, its a great watch if it werent for this awful movement
You would be looking at minimum triple the price for a non Seagull mechanical movement. And chronograph servicing prices are exorbitant in general, the better movements probably cost more to service than buying a new Seagull.
@jkhcu I don't think it'd reach that, for example valjoux 7500 isn't that expensive If it'd reach triple the price that's still reasonable for what youre getting though The movement - for me - is more important than the dial and the case/bracelet, telling me I need to replace it is a big no
I purchased the standard version a few days back and have been wearing it this week. These models work well for those like myself who are starting to look for better quality but perhaps don't yet have the knowledge of what makes for a great movement. I was able to spend a little more than I have in the past to experience what great finishing quality and design looks like without having to forkout the premium price tag for a better movement when I wouldn't really appreciate why it's better. It's a stepping stone that will help educate me in my future purchases and serves as a great looking watch to own in the meantime.
Rather than salmon, the dials look more like a sandy gold. At first glance I thought the three hand model dial was a pie pan. The Bicompax looks like the whole drum kit’s cymbals.
Either way a gorgeous watch. The hands do look French. Elegant, subtle, serene.
All respect to the movement geeks, but I'm an aesthetics-first guy. Is it nice to get a nicer movement? Sure. But I'd rather get a stunning exterior instead, if there's got to be a compromise. If there was some sort of actual rule that a more premium movement would perform better, I guess that would be one thing. But at least as far as my excursions into pricier watches go, I'm not noticing any significant difference between a typical NH35 and a nicer Swiss movement.
Your videos are like an M&S advert. It’s a compliment
Glad you like them!
I enjoy watches ..period👍
Marks and Spencer do make great ads.
Wish all watches had less text. Brand name or logo, model name or number is enough. Don't need water depth reminder on the dial. Don't need automatic, quartz, mechanical reminder, I think I can figure it out.
Exactly the two reasons why I’m return it: legibility and movement. I’d be happy to spend even double to get a good movement. Exterior point of view, dimensions and wearability it’s all great.
"The watch isn't what I want it to be, so I don't like it as much" I mean I get it, but kind of a weird take. If you want the full package, including the "great movement" (something people in this price range don't care about) - then buy a more expensive watch...?
I think the point is more that everything else about the watch is more high end, so a better movement would have really brought it to the next level.
I have the bicompax, salmon dial, open caseback, on the flat link bracelet. For $625, I’m impressed. It’s quite light - almost too light, but for the price point, it’s a hell of a fun watch.
The flat link bracelet echoes the dial’s segmentation. The way to go for a design harkening another era. The hard choice is whether to choose the Bicompax’ extra complications or the HMX’ simplicity. I ‘m leaning toward the simplicity. One doesn’t need the chrono clutter plungers, nor the chrono function. Even though the subs look cool, sometimes less is more.
I am fine with the cheap (read inexpensive) movement and expensive looking dial and price where it is. For accurate time, there are smart phones and smart watches available for it. If you must want a mechanical watch with accurate time then you have those expensive swiss watches available for you (even those are not very accurate). Most of the time I look at my mechanical watches just to get the approx. time. I almost never have a need to do accurate time to the sec.
Well said! I like my mechanical watches for their aesthetics, not precision time-keeping. The Baltic dials are beautiful!
I owned a Baltic Aquascaphe with a MIYOTA 9039 ... it was running +2 sec/day , like my BB58 !!! Lucky? I don't know .
Same here. The MIYOTA 9039 is a fine movement. Most people complaining about the movement forget that we are talking about a $500 watch
@@sfomann this watch has an 8000 series though, not the more premium 9000
Gorgeous watches! The thing I like about Baltic is that the brand has managed to form a strong identity in such a short time. I recognized them as "Baltic" even from the thumbnail. Had they been from another brand, I would have thought of them as "Baltic homages". That's impressive. I also live that they're offering their customers the BEST quality design and finishing you can get for the price. I understand your qualm about the movement. I too wish they used better quality movements. But, then they'd become just another $1000-1500 microbrand.
In this price range, they're something special.
Love love love the look of the HMS! I can’t imagine the scratches that a bracelet with polished external links will pick up. Also, if they’re going to go Miyota, at least use the 9000 series… that dial though…
Peter if they had your camera work on their website I think they'd never carry stock. That bi-compax in your edit is breath taking. Great vid, cheers!
😊🥃
That seagull movement is good for 50hrs btw in my experience , granted it would've been nice to at least have a 9 series but for those who just like the watch the upgraded 8 series is as good and reliable movement that'll serve them well baring in mind the idea is its affordability.
These are cool new additions to their excellent catalog. I really feel the salmon/copper dial should have had blue accents like the silver dial... If not at least a darkened (gunmetal) metallic finish to add some contrast to that particular colorway
Excellent review Peter, that salmon dial would probably look great with a blue hour and minute hands.
I think you might be right...maybe the handset from the other model they offer on these..nice thought 👍
A High Accuracy Quartz & thinner case on the HMS would be nice.
It's amazing looking, but after 2 weeks of owning this piece, I gifted it to my brother. But once again, they're beautiful.
Why did you not keep?
Why?
Id love to own a Baltic. They seem to only make smaller watches though. Their dive watch is the only watch i could pull off. The mr01 is the one i like.
Great review and beautiful watches. I like the concept of a super quality finished watch with an affordable movement in a price range up to €3.000.
Above this price I expect attention to the movement and not a standard Swiss one with a signed rotor....
So perfect choice for me.
Finally! Been waiting for a review on the salmon chrono! Thanks Peter!
welcome 👍
Fair review though I believe that the value proposition and attention to detail more than balance movement selection unless the time-grapher says otherwise. Good work Peter, Thank you! 👍🏾
The Seagull is a nice looking movement. Would be nice to see it.
I think your comment about the movements of these watches is measured and fair! Thanks for the great video.
Thanks Sean 👍
To me, the aesthetics, dimensions and decent WR are far more important than the movement itself, but that's just me.
I'm open to all kinds of bracelets, but for some reason, I never could get the hang of being a fan of rice bead pattern.
Would you consider doing a review of the controversial Waldhoff Multimatic II?
I've never heard of that brand..I will look into it
@@PeterKotsa
Thanks! 🙂 I ran across the brand in this review from Jonathan:
ruclips.net/video/pnyIkZlilxM/видео.html
Just had a look at the link, it looks hideous tbh....
Peter I recently bought the MR01 model with the salmon dial. Yes it’s not ideal legibility wise, at certain times? But during the day it’s absolutely stunning! I also have the Aquascaphe which is a fantastic legible watch. Dial choice is individual. As for the hesalite crystal, aesthetically it fits with the era, style of watch. I don’t have an issue at all with the ST1901 movement. Sure MAYBE a Swiss movement would be good, but price would be somewhat higher wouldn’t it? I have at least a dozen watches I’ve bought over the years with the ST1901 movement & never had an issue. I’m not overly concerned with the movement or the hours it runs. I can handle that!🤣👍🏼
Took me awhile to decide between the MR01 salmon and silver. Ended up with the silver but would’ve been happy with either. Dimensions are perfect for me and only gripe is the lack of the second hand hacking.
Great video Pete. I have an MR01, and so far it’s been great. I agree with you that it would be nice to see a more premium movement model, but I do also love the affordability of the current movements. I think they should offer both options!
I've been looking for a HM3 review, thanks Peter!
cheers 🥃
I would buy one if it had a better movement, safierglas instead of hesalite and 10atm. I know the price would be double but the design is really nice so I would pick one up.
For the chrono it would be triple at the least but I do agree that they should have gone with a Miyota 9000 for the 3 hander.
I don't mind acrylic or water resistance though, 50m is plenty enough for daily use and maybe even swimming (the stuff you see on the internet about how 30m is barely enough for handwashing, dynamic pressure yadda yadda, etc is really overblown).
The first design of the HMS with the silver and cream dial and blue hands would always have been the obvious match for me from Baltic. Unfortunately, movement, hesalite, blue but not blued hands, those elements let the proposition down. The design was there, perhaps even with the materials chosen, the execution was there, but this was not a sufficiently convincing package. I'm not entirely sure if that would still be the case if only the movement was off, for me. Still, if that is such a money saver, effectively the watches are still relatively expensive. Considering what other brands achieve with better movements at similar prices. Perhaps there is a difference in finish that only hands-on experience will give away. And definitely Baltic can design a good watch. All that aside, I'm not sure these models are made for either of these bracelets, but that could be down to personal preference.
I really want to like the bicompax more since I can’t think of another modern chronograph that’s that small. But it needs sapphire.
Catch 22. Put a different movement in and the price jumps up significantly, losing the value factor.
very true..👍
I ordered the salmon 003 chrono (1 month wait) and I don't care - looks amazing and if it lasts 5-6 years that will be great, I hope to have moved to Longines or similar by then. It's all fine and dandy to want a swiss movement but the price would quadruple even with something standard as 510m.
1 month wait on the Salmon Bicompax 003? I'm in the US and it's showing shipping / delivery of 3 to 5 days. The only wait I'm aware of is for any of the models paired with the black strap.
@@ryan2vs Funny that you pointed that out.
Yes I did choose the black leather strap and that appears to be exactly what's holding back the deliveries till early Sept. Ah well..
We've been a bit spoiled with crowns. If youre going for vintage dress watch looks you more or less have to go with a smaller crown, because most of them did have little finger breaking bastards on them back then. God only knows why, because you had to wind them daily, but I guess they thought a large crown would ruin the proportions.
These are very beautiful watches. As much as I find them attractive, I just can't see myself wearing one on a daily basis. I am one of those people that will only purchase a watch if I see it as a daily driver. I realize that probably doesn't make much sense, since I rotate my watches daily. Anyway, great review of some very attractive watches.
On those salmon dials, if one is drawn to them as a romantic, they’re probably more prone to a double take anyway, so they really won’t mind looking twice or thrice to gauge the time 😂
I like everything about Baltic watches.. except the price. If the price is at 50% I would buy it fast.
Love the dials and size but the movement is s complete NO for me. It’s a pity, with a Swiss movement they have margin to charge more for such beautiful design.
Thanks for the video
I had a Baltic for the last two years, sent it back to France to be repaired 3 separate times. They never did fix my watch. It was a nice looking watch, but it’s dangerous to consider using it for dives.
i am guessing Baltic did some homework and decided design and finish will be the better selling factors than internal movement. most watch buyers are not clued into watching youtube watch aficionados such as the fab one we are watching now!
You’re not wrong. I think if Baltic put in Swiss movement, it’s likely they will bank in more customers. They will move up to compete with Farer. However I feel at this price point they have found their sweet spot.
I have a Baltic MR01 and a Farer Lander, from my observations there is still a gap in build quality and finishing. Baltic is very good at their price point no doubt but Farer is still just a bit better.
For someone writing a review, you seem not to have thought this through. I think these watches are too sophisticated for you, and you don't understand what they are trying to achieve. I have two Baltics and am about to buy my third. They are brilliant watches, for when you want something a bit more relaxed and subtle. They still show you love watches, but on a night out, no one is going to be irritated by your choice of watch. That can be a huge positive in this day and age. Hopefully you can catch up soon, and appreciate what this amazing brand is doing. And for the record, the Miyota movement is an excellent one.
Try reviewing their tricompax . It's swiss movement and it's not cheap.
I think the flat link bracelet is too Speedmasterey. I’d rather go with the beads of rice one. And yes, French watch brands rock !
It's no so much the movements I struggle with. It's the hesalite crystals they offer as the only option for some watches. Don't get me wrong, I like the brand. I own a dual crown Aquascaphe and I love it. Nothing wrong with the Miyota 9039 in that watch.
Great review and I love both of those watches. I have a blue Aquascaphe which is 39mm and although I love it that is as small as I would buy. I would definitely get the bicompax but anything 36 point something in size is just far too small for me. A 40/41mm would look fantastic.
I had the chance to try the hms003 on my 19,5cm wrist and trust me or not, I didn't find it too small!
I have the beads of rice bracelet from a prev baltic purchase.. maybe its time to get the flat link as well if its available
I wish they would have used the Miyota 9039 in the HMS watch. To me that movement is just as good if not better than the ETA, Sellita, or Soprod movements.
These look absolutely great, and 36mm is back baby!
Since they are 20mm lug width, I would suggest a heavy tapered strap... from 20-16mm.
Seagull no, but Miyota is fine. If Baltic is listening... go with a quartz Miyota but without the seconds hand (clean and static on that regular model), leather, solid back...$250...$280ish... that would be fantastic!
If they put Selita in there Pete... that watch is $800 + tax...$950. It doesn't make sense. You go Alpinist then. You are not buying Baltic. So...this is fine, again go cheaper, quartz without second.
Oh and Seagull is better than mecaquartz at least. Its real without plastic. Stay with Seagull.
Baltic, good.
Beautiful. I wish I was as confident in the movement as I am in the visual aspects of the Bicom version. Rolls Royce looks with the heart of a Mini.
More premium movement, higher price. I have no problem if a movement is dependable enough.
I have never understood the idiom of, "You can't have your cake and eat it too!" It is a weird saying. It is cake. What the hell else would you do with it? Refinish the driveway? Organize a labor union? Build the worlds largest jenga tower? The saying has never made a lick of sense to me.
Quite the opposite, it makes perfect sense if you think about it. If you eat the cake, you no longer have it. If you decide to keep it, you can’t taste it. In other words, sometimes you can’t have both and need to choose between two options.
best microbrand ever!
No way man
serica
I agree if they throw in even a la joux perret im in
The Miyota movement is actually very good and not really a step down compared to a base ETA. Edit: nvm thought it was the 9000 series.
Excellent review
They are not the worst movements, the Miyota movement is a work horse and powers many watches at that price but a 9000 series movement would have been better, as for the sea gull I would have preferred a Vk quartz movement
Lovely looking watches though at a great budget
Great review as always Pete 👍
cheers Paul..
For me the main issue is their dial size. I think it is a bit too small. I would prefer a 39mm, especially for the chronograph. That is probably the main reason why they are not very legible. Yes I have handled these watches at a local watch show and that was my first and only gripe with these. For reference, I do own their AQUASCAPHE in blue gilt.
The lugs and beads of rice bracelet looks just like the Nivada Superantarctic 369
Baltic is a fashion brand watch. Great looking watch, affordable price, and decent movement. They don't want you to work for their watch like Rolex, they want you to buy and buy again. I feel the same way regarding this brand as you. Can't wait for your next video, cheers.
Fashion brand? The accepted definition is a watch made for Boss, Diesel, or other such clothing brands, that extend them to cheap, generally quartz watches, that only have a value from the brand label attached to them. Baltic is the very antithesis of that. You need to meet the people who work for them. Then you'd understand.
I'm so bloody bored about people bleating on about power reserve. It's bs. Why the hell would you want a big power reserve, oh, so i can take my watch off on Friday and its still running on Monday. Do you do that with your car? Of course you don't because it will need being serviced more often and therefore be more expensive to run. How hard is that to understand?
Hey Gary, Im fine with your standard 38 hours on an auto, however with a manual wind I have a preference of higher PR because I tend to forget to wind it over the period of a few days...that's just me
Is it a deal breaker?..nope, just saying
cheers
The HMS is a bit too boring for me, and the Bicompax a bit too pricey (for a movement I don’t like). Also both too small:(
Someone knows a “better” mechanical chrono movement that would fit in a case that small ?
Here in the U.S. when we buy a cake we eat it too maybe it's different in Australia ☺️
The numerals also look French.
I like the dials, but the Seagull ST1901 is a deal breaker. I've had a few fail and ended up in the parts bin. I shy away from throw-away or problematic movements these days.
Big contributing factor to the problem is a lot of watches with these Seagull movements are from low cost/Chinese brands that don't spend much if any time or money at all on quality control to cut costs. I'd still be comfortable with the movement if the watches come from a reputable maker, and good customer service also goes a long way.
Fully agree; they simply deserve a step up in movements.
Peter, I enjoy your channel. This episode though I hear A lot of watch snobby seeping in. Watches are emotional items for us geeks and we deserve affordable quality also.
Hey Douglas, Im all for affordable as you probably already know..
Maybe Baltic could offer these in the current configuration for affordability sake and also offer and upgradable option fr those seeking that little bit extra...just a thought
I only say this because the watch looks so good, it could easily cater for both markets..
As for watch snobbery, I hope I didn't come across that way 🙏
cheers
These are nice enough but fail in the content for value realm. The case and dial of each are really great. The movements are inadequate for the price point.
So these are like hublot
Had my eye on these for a while but ultimately the dial size was the main deal-breaker.
I'm seeing €442 as the lowest price on a leather strap on the HMS. So if you thought they were too cheap, problem solved.
They're not too cheap for the movement inside.
If it uses Miyota, it's a Citizen 😉
A miyota 8000 series???? No.... I could accept a 9,000 series... Even though I'm still annoyed at miota for the one directional rotor. I should have updated that by now! But I with by this watch no matter how good it is within 8,000 series movement! Especially a normal three-hand 8000 series movement. I'm actually surprised about that
360 is the cost excluded taxes
Hey Pete you hit the nail on the head. The finishes, style and aesthetic of the watches all superb. But as you said it is the choice of cheap Japanese and Chinese movements warrants a thumbs down. I'd be willing to pay an extra $150 for a mid range Selita 200. I'd be interested to hear if you put the watches on a timegrapher.
I just put these on the timegrapher today to check them out, they are gaining over 25-30 sec each...which is strange because the dual crown which I tested a while back was pretty accurate
the price with that movement is a big no
£600 for a watch produced in Hong Kong assembled in France and with a £100 movement p? Not that cheap at all.
I see your logic..but the execution and details on these are really something else..
The movements...meh
Very true. I was going to get one before reading their website. They are actually honest on how they make them and i like that. But the value... Meh
Baltic are a great micro brands but yep movement is key - I’d say formex Christopher ward and MONTA are no longer micro they all very near the top of mid range - Baltic may want to make the step up.
I don't know why, but the bezel situation just feels like it's unfinished. I don't mean like finishing, i mean, like it is missing a piece or something, but something is supposed to be there, that isn't.
Sorry for being the odd one out. but there is one thing about these watches that I do not like. plastic crystals. I would rather pay a little more for sapphire. so... too cheap for me.
Yeah must admit they look great but no use having a see through caseback the movement is its biggest flaw
Im the same as you it just doesnt do anything for me
Tradeoffs yes, legibility never.
Love them but I am a big guy. They'd look like a pimple on my arm I wish they where avaliable in a bigger size maybe a 42mm for us larger watch lovers
I think they are a bit expensive given the bargain basement movements and plexi crystals. They look good, though.
Just pay for them with your own earned money and lets see, if you state the same :)
If ur not wearing a Tritium watch u are only wearing a half of watch!
Gorgeous watches, but like you, the price/movement leaves me scratching my head. I see it the opposite of you, how can they charge so much for a watch that has the same movement as $150 to $200 USD watches? Put a basic ETA or SW movement (or even a Miyota/NH) and THEN you can charge around $500 USD.
Couldnt agree anymore... When the movement breaks down, you go back to them and they profit again, very simple :)
A non seagull mechanical chronograph will cost you no less than $1,500.
@@jkhcu Highly disagree. The Miyota 9000 series has plenty of chronographs and they can still sell it at 600€ and make decent profit. At this price point with a seagull it is pretty much a rip off.
@@chillilover8345But Miyota only has quartz chronograph movements? Are you perhaps thinking of chronometer?
@@jkhcu Bro, go check up the Miyota 9000 series before you type? It helps you...... They are automatic...
Honestly Peter this video is hillarious. You have watch that is brilliantly priced, well designed, executed at a very high level and yet you complain they ARE TOO CHEAP? Because of view like this, watch companies set these ridiculous prices for watches we see today. Don't you like Miyota movement? Is Seagull not good enough for you? My god, get a watch, ask the manufacturer (or your favoirite watchmaker) to swap the movement for Sellita or ETA if you REALLY want one. But complainong the watch is too cheap? Complaining about well known, reliable movements? You sound like a spoiled child, Peter. Sorry to say that.
Hey Tommy, no need to apologise bro..I hear what you're saying
I hope its not the spoilt child in me or the 'watch snob' talking..I was trying to be as genuine and sincere in my approach to these pieces..
I completely understand the logic behind Baltic's choices to keep the prices affordable with lesser movements in these..its just that they feel a mismatch to me
The eye candy, quality finish and design execution is so well done, maybe I am just accustomed to thinking theres a higher grade Swiss movement or something that needs to be under the hood..thats all
cheers 🥃
12.9mm is super tall for a 36mm three hander…pass for me
3mm is taken up by the crystal
A very low end miyota and a chinese movement for the chrono.... too cheap? I think quite the opposite, Baltic's owner is putting a huge mark-up over chinese watches with his logo
Says way too cheap. 540 euros
Too small.
I found them small on the flat link..on the beads of rice, they both sat well on my 18cm wrist (only just though) 😊
You lost me @ Seagull movement... Been there, have a broken one, never again.
The bracelet looks cheap. Seagull movements are rubbish...
Thats quits true... paying over 600€ for seagull, its too much.
I love how Baltic watches look, but having a hesalite crystal is always an automatic no from me.
What's the problem with hesalite? I've heard it's easy to polish out scratches and that the look of the crystal has a certain vintage warmth..
I don't know why my comment got moderated for intimating that i didn't agree necessarily on value or the persisting notion that swiss is best at all costs. I like your video editing but i'm out. Unsubscribed
Who moderated your comment???..which comment?
I don't moderate or delete comments, however sometimes YT doesn't allow a comment to be posted for whatever reasons it sees fit
Sorry to see you go...cheers
Seagull movement? I'll pass, that m*vement is very difficult to service and its cheaper to replace it than to service it, and I don't want to wear a box that I replace its movement every while
I'd gladly pay double the price for a better movement though, its a great watch if it werent for this awful movement
You would be looking at minimum triple the price for a non Seagull mechanical movement. And chronograph servicing prices are exorbitant in general, the better movements probably cost more to service than buying a new Seagull.
@jkhcu I don't think it'd reach that, for example valjoux 7500 isn't that expensive
If it'd reach triple the price that's still reasonable for what youre getting though
The movement - for me - is more important than the dial and the case/bracelet, telling me I need to replace it is a big no