Diving Archives - Watch Ideas

April 25, 2021April 28, 2021

Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner [Comparison Review]

When it comes to luxury dive watches, Rolex has been at the top of the game due to the legendary Submariner watch. The Rolex Submariner is a watch that needs no introduction. For instance, it’s a top-rated dive watch both in mechanical and aesthetic aspects. Personally, the Submariner is a top 5 watch. However, in today’s Tudor Black Bay Vs Rolex Submariner comparison, a challenger is poised to give the Submariner a run for its money.

Although Tudor is Rolex’s subsidiary brand, it’s not widely considered to be an alternative to Rolex – at least in the past. Times have changed and tables have been turned. With Tudor’s return to the U.S. market, it has made some of the most impressive timepieces that nicely complements its parent company, Rolex. Certainly, one of the best Tudor watches has got to be the Tudor Heritage Black Bay.

For this Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner head-to-head, we take a look at these two amazing timepieces and hopefully help you answer the question, “should I get a Rolex or Tudor?”

Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner: At a Glance

For this timepiece comparison, we’ll pit the Rolex Submariner ref. 114060 with the Tudor Heritage Black Bay ref. 79230. Let’s first take a quick look at the specs of both watches:

Model:	Tudor Heritage Black Bay	Rolex Submariner
Reference #:	m79230n-0009	114060
Model case:	41 mm steel case with polished and satin finish	Oyster, 40 mm, Oystersteel
Dial:	Black with pink index, domed	Black
Material:	Steel	Oystersteel
Bezel:	Steel unidirectional rotatable bezel with disc in matt black anodised aluminium	Unidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated, scratch-resistant Cerachrom insert in ceramic, numerals and graduations coated in platinum
Winding crown:	Screw-down steel winding crown, with the TUDOR rose engraved and black-lacquered, with black anodised aluminium winding crown tube	Screw-down, Triplock triple waterproofness system
Crystal:	Domed sapphire crystal	Scratch-resistant sapphire
Water Resistance:	200 m (660 ft)	300 meters / 1,000 feet
Movement:	Self-winding mechanical movement with bidirectional rotor system	Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding
Caliber:	Manufacture Calibre MT5602 (COSC)	3130, Manufacture Rolex
Functions:	Hours, minutes, seconds; 4Hz frequency, Unidirectional rotating bezel, COSC-certified automatic movement	Centre hour, minute and seconds hands. Stop-seconds for precise time setting
Oscillator:	–	Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring
Power reserve:	70 hours	48 hours
Bracelet:	Steel riveted bracelet / Aged leather / Fabric strap	Oystersteel
Clasp:	Folding buckle and safety clasp	Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Rolex Glidelock extension system

Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner: The Comparison

Size and Design

Based on the specs, the Tudor Heritage Black Bay is bigger both in diameter and height. The 1 millimeter difference in size may not sound like much but once you have both watches on your wrist, you’ll see a considerable difference. If you have a smaller wrist, the difference in size becomes a lot more pronounced. Also, the extra thickness of the Tudor makes it taller than the Submariner. The taller case sides allow the Black Bay to sit closer to the wrist. For the size, I think both watches fairly similar. It’s all down to your personal preference.

When looking at the design, it’s obvious that there’s a shared heritage between the Submariner and Black Bay. The Submariner features a buttoned-down approach to design while the Black Bay has a more laid-back feel. If the Rolex Submariner was designed by men in lab coats, the Tudor Black Bay was designed by bearded men in no-socks boots. The Black Bay feels more relaxed and filled with nostalgic details. A good example of this is Tudor’s gilt dial, the splash of red on the bezel, and the riveted bracelet.

On the flip side, the main thing that goes for the Rolex Submariner is the word “Rolex” itself. The tighter hand stack, more complex ridges, and better finish are just some of the more superior design elements of the Sub. The details on the Rolex are also leagues ahead when compared to the Tudor. It’s a legendary design for a reason.

Build Quality and Construction

When it comes to the build quality, the Submariner and Black Bay don’t disappoint. However, the Sub boasts some finer details and a slightly nicer finish if you care to look. Considering the cost difference between these two watches, it’s not a surprise that the Submariner comes out on top in terms of build quality. Having said that, both watches have excellent quality.

Both watches feel solid and robust, and there’s no rattling or components that are off. Try rotating the bezels from both watches and you’ll never get the impression that it’s made of cheap plastic.

The major difference between the two is the purpose for which these watches are built. The Black Bay is a Tudor Heritage model which means that it uses traditional parts. For instance, the Black Bay makes use of a matte black dial in comparison to the Sub’s ceramic dial.

Another major difference is that the Submariner uses a ceramic insert while the Black Bay has an aluminum bezel insert which is less durable and resistant to scratches. The Tudor’s case looks to be inspired by the vintage dive watches of old while Rolex has abandoned that case design many years ago.

Movement and Timekeeping

The movement is where most of the price difference comes from. The Submariner uses the “No Date” Rolex caliber 3130 which is, of course, an in-house movement. The 3130 movement boasts 48 hours of power reserve, a frequency of 28,800 beats per hour, and a track record of long-term durability. The movement is fitted with a Parachrom hairspring for added durability and it becomes resistant against magnetic fields.

On the other hand, the 2016 model of the Black Bay comes with a caliber MT5602 which is a COSC certified movement. The MT5602 movement offers an impressive 70 hours power reserve which is almost a day of power compared to the Sub’s power reserve. It’s worth noting that this is the first run of the Black Bay that runs on an in-house movement, not a modified ETA movement like with the previous models.

In terms of accuracy, the Submariner clearly has the upper hand with the unprecedented -2/+2 second per day accuracy. Conversely, the Black Bay’s accuracy comes down to a respectable -4 and +6 seconds per day. At the end of the day, the layman can’t probably tell the difference but purists will likely choose the Submariner.

Comfort and Wearability

The Submariner comes with the signature solid link Oyster bracelet and it’s a strong case for the “if it ain’t broke” mantra. It’s the mainstay of the Rolex brand and it’s definitely one of the best elements of the Submariner. Furthermore, the Oysterlock clasp prevents any accidental opening and the Glidelock system enables you to adjust the watch without tools. This is an important feature for divers who are wearing the Sub over their diving suit.

On the other hand, we have the Tudor Black Bay which boasts an array of bracelet/strap options. I got the riveted stainless steel bracelet model for this review and it’s fitted with folding buckle and safety clasp. The bracelet is actually a redesign of the old Tudor bracelets from the 1950s to 1960s. The riveted bracelet does have a memorable design which adds a lot of personality to the piece.

The key difference between the two bracelets is in the clasp which also affects the overall difference in wearability and comfort. Although the two claps work in virtually the same way, the Submariner’s clasp features a micro-adjust system which is the aforementioned Glidelock system. Making adjustments with the Rolex Submariner 114060 is far easier when compared to the Black Bay since the latter needs an adjustment tool.

Pricing

The pricing is obviously an important factor when deciding between the Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner. Firstly, when you look at the retail price for both watches, you’ll see that the Submariner more or less costs double the Black Bay. Secondly, as a subsidiary brand of Rolex, it’s no surprise that the Tudor Black Bay is much less expensive when compared to the Sub. So if you’re going for the price alone, the Tudor Black Bay is a solid luxury watch.

However, once you look past the actual price, you’ll see that there’s merit to choosing the Submariner over the Black Bay – I’m referring to the resale value. For instance, if you take a glance at the secondhand market, you’ll notice that the Black Bay decreases in value whereas, the Submariner is sold higher than the retail price. If you’re planning to resale the watch down the line, the Submariner is the clear winner.

Overall, collectors who are looking for a dive watch but can’t quite splurge for a Rolex, the Tudor Black Bay is more than a viable alternative. Alternatively, the venerable Submariner is a legendary timepiece with a rich history, so it’s hard to go wrong with a Sub especially for first-time collectors.

Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner: The Verdict

In this Tudor Black Bay Vs Rolex Submariner comparison, both watches are fairly similar with some key differences. However, there’s no doubt that both of these watches are excellent in their own right. This is one of the many reasons why people are stuck with the Black Bay vs Submariner dilemma.

Ultimately, the main deciding factor for choosing between the two is the price point. The Submariner is almost $8,000 which is within the price expectation for a Rolex. The Submariner commands respect with its build quality and near-flawless design. Overall, it really is one of the most beautiful watches ever made and it’s worth the price tag.

On the other hand, we have the Black Bay which costs less than half of the Submariner. Also, the Tudor goes for a faux vintage vibe but it’s decidedly the more playful and relaxed timepiece, for instance. If you’re into a more youthful and fun watch that’s not going to break the bank, the Tudor Heritage Black Bay gets my highest recommendation.

April 13, 2021April 22, 2021

Muhle Glashutte Review: Is This Germany-Based Brand Any Good?

When it comes to the best watches in the world, it’s safe to say that many of them are Swiss built. But what about the Germans? Sure, they’re known for making the best car brands in the automotive world but not many people are familiar with German watch brands.

In reality, Germans have made some of the best tool watches in the world. I’ve been recently looking into German watch brands and my journey took me to Mühle-Glashütte.

If you are looking to get into German watchmaking, I highly recommend that you check out what Mühle-Glashütte has to offer. For this Muhle Glashutte review, we’ll learn about the brand’s history, the pros and cons, and highlight the models that best reflect the brand.

About Mühle-Glashütte

In 2019, German watchmaker Mühle Glashütte turned 150 years old. However, I’m not sure if the company has been consistently in the business since then. Many watch manufacturers like to claim that they have 100+ years of lineage but won’t account for buyouts, production stoppages, or other non-watch related side ventures.

Therefore, there’s really no way to verify the claim that the Mühle-Glashütte brand has been around since 1869. With such a long history in watchmaking, it makes you wonder why they are not more popular.

However, I do know that the Mühle-Glashütte brand is based in Glashütte, Germany. Based on my research, it was during the 90s that the Mühle-Glashütte has made a splash in the watchmaking world. In 1994, the “Mühle-Glashütte GmbH Nautische Instrumente und Feinmechanik” (shortened to Mühle-Glashütte) was founded and headed by Hans-Jürgen. During that time, the demand for precise nautical watches is high and Mühle-Glashütte was there to fulfill the demand.

Although the majority of the Mühle-Glashütte products are watches, the company is also known for making both mechanical and electronic nautical clocks for boats. In the purest, these other products are designed to be useful tools than lifestyle items.

In short, Mühle-Glashütte is a company that specializes in “Nautische Instrumente” – nautical instruments and watch systems for boats and ships. While this lineage may not be as fantastical as other watch companies, this sort of nautical origin and background really separates Mühle-Glashütte from the competition.

It’s worth noting that Glashütte is just a small village in Germany and the place has given birth to some of the best watchmakers. Apart from Mühle-Glashütte, the village has been the ground zero for other beloved German companies such as Moritz Grossmann, Nomos Glashütte, A. Lange & Söhne, and Glashütte Original.

Muhle Glashutte Review: Pros and Cons

Are Muhle Glashutte watches worth checking out? This is my first time working with German watches, and I’ve made some notes about the things that I love and don’t love about this Germany-based brand.

What We Love

Unique and Remarkable Designs

If you’re a relatively unknown brand, your best bet is to create watches with designs that give your brand a certain identity – looks that will allow you to stand out from the saturated timepiece market.

Just one look at Muhle Glashutte’s collection and the uniqueness of the design will surely spark your interest. Muhle Glashutte watches aren’t just designed to be tools and instruments, they’re made to look the part as well.

Take for instance the Mühle-Glashütte 29er, a watch named after the 29er Sailboat. The watch is classified as “Nautical” and “Sporty Instrument” and it does look like that for the most part. I like that this dive watch doesn’t look like your typical diver but it’s not quite a dress timepiece either.

Another good example of the brand’s unique design is the Muhle Glashutte M29 Einzeiger. The watch features a sophisticated and precision-based design. It does look like a contemporary blend of timepiece engineering. Even among classic watches, the Muhle Glashutte M29 Einzeiger has a unique and impactful look.

If you are getting tired of the usual designs of commercial luxury watches in the market, the Muhle Glashutte brand offers a good sanctuary.

On-Point Durability

When you are making instrument-like watches that are meant for the high seas, you’ll have a collection of watches that can brave the toughest elements. That’s exactly what Mühle-Glashütte has accomplished with its line of watches.

Unlike its neighbors in Glashütte, Mühle-Glashütte has opted to make more utilitarian watches. This has been a point of pride for the founder Mühle who was quoted, “We make watches for people who want to use the watch.”

True enough, Mühle-Glashütte won’t leave you hanging in terms of durability. Take for example the Muhle Glashutte Seebataillon GMT which is the company’s take on a dive watch. It comes with a matte titanium case, sapphire crystal screw-down case-back, and scratch resistant anti-reflective domed sapphire crystal. Sounds round of the mill but you have to see it in person to appreciate the robustness of the piece.

Keeping It Simple

Another thing that I like best about the Mühle-Glashütte brand is that they like to keep things simple. The brand offers a collection of relatively simple, do-it-all watches. If you like your watches straightforward and simple, you’ll definitely want to check out what Mühle-Glashütte has to offer.

Mühle-Glashütte offers a number of collections that simply stick to their theme. For example, with nautical-themed watches, you see models with a soft, blue matte finish and legible dials. The brand has this no-nonsense approach to its design sensibilities and it resonates with people like me who like their watches simple and straightforward.

In-House Movements

Before, Mühle-Glashütte used the Sellita SW 200-01 which is essentially the same movement as the ETA 2824. However in 2003, the company decided to develop its own spin on these movements. While they’re not exactly original in-house movements, Muhle stepped it up a notch by manufacturing their own rotor, finisher, and the most interesting of all, the woodpecker neck regulation. The woodpecker neck regulation makes the movement easy to regulate and more resistant to sharp shocks.

While Muhle isn’t exactly the paragon of innovation by creating original movements, it’s hard not to appreciate the effort of doing their own modifications to existing ones.

What We Don’t Love

Company Doesn’t Offer Much Information

Mühle-Glashütte seems to be in their element when they’re making heavy-duty tool watches. This is fairly apparent with the brand’s marine and diving collections. Unfortunately, it seems that the company doesn’t provide much information about which watches you should choose. This gives me the impression that Muhle is more or less leaving it up to the buyer’s personal taste and preferences.

Unlike lifestyle watches that can sell themselves through design, tool watches could really benefit from telling instead of showing. For a brand like Mühle-Glashütte who’s not exactly the most popular, I feel like they could be a bit more consultative with their customers and put up more explanation.

Pricing Needs Improvement

For the price, I think the Mühle-Glashütte watches offer good value. These are high-quality watches with unique designs. However, I feel like their pricing is a bit misplaced.

Muhle Glashutte watch prices range from $800 to $5,000. While that’s a good range for their watches, it competes with plenty of other more popular brands, and just overall better in general. If you really like instrumental-esque watches, then Muhle Glashutte’s pricing shouldn’t offend you a bit. However, for anything else, Muhle Glashutte watches may not be the best bang for your buck.

Best Muhle Glashutte Watches

You can’t write about a Muhle Glashutte review without highlighting some of the best models the brand has to offer. So here goes…

1. Muhle Glashutte S.A.R. Rescue-Timer

For starters, the Muhle Glashutte S.A.R. Rescue-Timer does cost a pretty penny. However, this is one case where the money goes where it needs to be: into the making of the watch.

The S.A.R. Rescue-Timer isn’t particularly flashy but that okay because it’s a pure utilitarian watch. It’s clearly created because of the need and not the desire. After all, this was a watch that’s designed for the German Maritime Search and Rescue Service.

True to the brand’s commitment to making instrument-like timepieces, the S.A.R. Rescue-Timer doesn’t look like any other watch you’ve seen before. Overall, the S.A.R. Rescue-Timer is a great watch if you’re looking for a heavy-duty option.

2. Mühle Glashütte Seebattailon GMT

The Mühle Glashütte Seebattailon GMT is another collaborative piece with the military/navy. This watch was designed to suit the needs of the German Seebattailon (Marine Battalion).

This is a 300m titanium GMT dive watch and is powered by the dependable ETA 2893-2 movement. It’s a fairly large diver but is quite a lightweight piece. It’s all thanks to the titanium construction. I must say that the titanium plays rather beautifully with the blue and gold dial.

Overall, the Seebattailon GMT is a very sophisticated looking dive watch with a build quality that should make Glashütte proud.

3. Muhle Glashutte Terrasport I Beobachter

The Muhle Glashutte Terrasport I Beobachter is available in two dial variants: the cream and black dial. The former comes with a leather band and the latter with a stainless steel bracelet.

As a pilot watch, the Muhle Glashutte Terrasport I Beobachter has all the makings of a good pilot watch. It has a very legible dial and the pilot-shaped hands are beautifully proportioned and lumed. As for the design, I must say that it’s very comparable to the favorite Hamilton Khaki.

Ultimately, the Terrasport I Beobachter is a solid pilot watch but it’s a bit on the pricey side.

Muhle Glashutte Review: Are They Any Good?

So we end this Muhle Glashutte review with our verdict.

Is Muhle Glashutte a brand that you should check out? Well, it depends on your preferences. If you’re looking for a straightforward, heavy-duty watch with great utility, then Muhle might have something for you. However, if you want something fancy or a marvel in timekeeping, you might want to take a pass.

Overall, the Muhle Glashutte is a great brand that brings superior German engineering into the art of watchmaking.

April 7, 2021April 19, 2021

Rolex Submariner Two Tone Blue Review [Submariner Date ref. 116613LB]

Rolex is a brand-name that’s synonymous with success. And as far as luxury watches go, there are only a few timepieces that can match the sheer recognizability of the Rolex Submariner. The Submariner is the paragon of iconic and timeless design.

If you’re a regular reader of this blog, you’ll know that I’m the biggest fan of the Submariner.

For today’s review, we’ll be taking a look at the Rolex Submariner Two Tone Blue aka the Submariner Date ref. 116613LB. This Submariner is a luxurious version of the Rolex’s dive watch line. Gold is generally reserved for formal dress watches but this one is certainly an exception. Let’s get on with this Rolex Submariner Two Tone Blue review.

Rolex Submariner Two Tone Blue Review: At a Glance

As mentioned, this is the review for the Submariner Date ref. 116613LB. Let’s take a look at its specifications:

Model:	Rolex Submariner Date
Reference no.	116613LB
Model case:	Oyster, 40 mm, Oystersteel and yellow gold
Oyster architecture:	Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown
Material:	Yellow Rolesor – combination of Oystersteel and 18 ct yellow gold
Bezel:	Unidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated, scratch-resistant Cerachrom insert in ceramic, numerals and graduations coated in gold
Winding crown:	Screw-down, Triplock triple waterproofness system
Crystal:	Scratch-resistant sapphire, Cyclops lens over the date
Water-resistance:	Waterproof to 300 metres / 1,000 feet
Movement:	Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding
Caliber:	3135, Manufacture Rolex
Precision:	-2/+2 sec/day, after casing
Winding:	Bidirectional self-winding via Perpetual rotor
Bracelet:	Oyster, flat three-piece links
Clasp:	Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Rolex Glidelock extension system
Dial:	Blue
Certification:	Superlative Chronometer (COSC + Rolex certification after casing)
Functions:	Centre hour, minute and seconds hands. Instantaneous date with rapid setting. Stop-seconds for precise time setting

Rolex Submariner Two Tone Blue Review

First Impressions

In all honesty, the Rolex 116613LB is not at all on my radar. In general, I’m not very fond of two-toned watches and the Rolex 116613LB looks to me like a bastardization of the iconic black dial Sub. Since then, I’ve been proven wrong.

I had the opportunity to acquire the Rolex Submariner 116613LB and I told myself, “why not?” As a classic Submariner fan, I feel like it’s my obligation to give this timepiece a chance and give it a review.

Of course, the two-tone blue color of the watch is the first thing you’ll notice about it. The 40mm case diameter feels just right and the integration of the watch’s Supercase adds a great deal of wrist presence. Much like the original Submariner, this two-tone blue Rolex succeeds in having a go-anywhere design aesthetic.

Based on the pictures, I previously thought the Rolex 116613LB looks way too flashy. Spending more time on it, I am more than happy to be proven wrong. The Submariner Date 116613LB neither looks too flashy or too utilitarian. Thanks to Rolex’s skillful blending of colors, the Rolex 116613LB can be worn for formal and casual occasions. This is the type of watch that you can wear with a broad spectrum of styles.

So if you have an aversion towards two-toned watches, the Rolex 116613LB might just change your mind. As far as first impressions go, it’s so far, so good.

Design

The first blue Submariner (ref. 16613) was a departure from the iconic black dial of the original. And yet, the Blue Sub became an instant hit for luxury watch collectors. While the black dial was replaced with the blue sunburst one, it still retained its timeless design. I think Rolex did a good job of combining flair and workmanlike with the two-tone blue Submariner.

The exquisite yellow gold next to the rugged 904L stainless steel is a combination that Rolex has gotten right over the years – thanks to the Rolesor name that they coined in the 30s. In terms of design, the Submariner Date 116613LB is an even better version of the two-tone blue Sub with plenty of enhancements.

This new blue Sub kept the age-old 40mm case dimensions which I feel is just right for regular wear. However, it does come with a Supercase which gives the watch a well-muscled look. I have to say, the screen presence of the watch is off the charts. I guess Rolex has succumbed to the large watch trends but doesn’t want to compromise the overall look of the iconic watch.

On top of its beefed-up case, the 116613LB also started using the heavy-duty Cerachrom bezel and a Maxi dial with thicker hands and hour markers. The blue sunburst dial adds a great deal to the sophisticated feel of the watch and even gives off some interesting patterns under certain lighting conditions. Visibility is also not an issue due to the gold-rimmed luminous hour markers and lumen-filled hands. The Cyclops lens is of course here and provides a great view of the date window.

Construction and Wearability

The case of the 116613LB is exactly what you can expect from a high-end luxury dive watch. The Cerachrom ceramic blue bezel doesn’t just look great but it also retains the timeless charm of the original black dial Sub.

As mentioned, the case measures 40mm in diameter and has a thickness of 12.75mm. However, the case actually slims down around the edges which enable the center to sink into the wrist. This subtle construction detail makes a huge difference in wearability especially when it comes to daily wear.

Many avid collectors refer to the case as the “Super Case” which I can agree with.

This version of the submariner is still a diver’s best friend as it features a waterproof rating of 300 meters / 1000 feet which makes is a capable dive watch. Like the original Submariner, this dive watch uses a screw down crown with Rolex’s Triplock locking crown. This means that nothing gets past the watch when underwater. Now, I doubt many people will wear this watch for diving but it’s nice to know that it’s a reliable diving tool.

Furthermore, the bracelet also received a much-needed upgrade. The iconic Oyster bracelet has received a fair bit of modernization. The earlier versions of the Rolesor bracelet were not received well due to durability issues.

Fortunately, the solid end and center links of this watch feel solid and sturdy. The over-engineered Glidelock clasp is also here and does a great job of providing a superior fit. Rolex’s patented extension system also allows you to make quick 2mm changes to the bracelet.

Timekeeping

At the heart of the Rolex Submariner Date ref. 116613LB beats the in-house Rolex Caliber 3135 movement.

This movement was introduced back in the late 80s and features a higher beat rate of 28,800 bph and even comes with an auto-changing date feature. The power clocks in at a standard 48-hour power reserve and is fitted with the Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring for added durability.

It’s worth noting that the Rolex Caliber 3135 movement is also used for the Rolex Submariner and Rolex Sea Dweller. With that said, the 3135 movement is an absolute workhorse and many experts consider it as one of the most successful movements Rolex has produced.

The movement features 31 jewels and a date aperture that automatically changes itself at midnight. On top of that, the 3135 movement includes other interesting features such as the glucydur balance wheel and the extremely efficient Perpetual winding system.

Furthermore, the 3135 movement is not just mechanically advanced but it’s built to last as well. The movement is fitted with KIF system for shock protection which brings the much-needed durability and impact resistance.

Overall, the Rolex Caliber 3135 movement is one of the best watch movements out there, and you’ll be happy to have it with your Rolex Submariner Date.

Pricing

One of the main things that differentiate the Rolex Submariner Date ref. 116613LB from the other Submariner models is the price.

As mentioned, the Submariner Date ref. 116613LB is the luxury, upscaled version of the Rolex Submariner. Thus, the price of the 116613LB is more or less 1.5 times more expensive than the Regular Submariner and even the Submariner Date.

In general, two-toned Rolex models are more expensive than single-colored ones. Of course, the main culprit for the higher price of the 116613LB is the use of yellow gold for the bracelet center link and the accents. With that said, the Rolex Submariner Date Two-Tone Blue retails at about $14k. However, this is by far, not the most expensive model in the collection. The pure 18 ct gold Submariner Date models (blue and black dial) are more than twice as expensive as the 116613LB.

So for this Rolex Submariner Two Tone Blue review, you’re probably asking, “is it worth the price?” Well, it really depends on how deep you are in to watch collecting. In all honesty, the 116613LB is not exactly entry-level, so this one is hard to recommend for beginners.

However, if you’re simply looking to add more to your Rolex collection, it’s hard to go wrong with this two-tone blue beauty. It’s the more affordable model as far as two-tone Rolex watches go.

Should You Get the Rolex Submariner Two Tone Blue Ref. 116613LB?

So what’s the verdict for this Rolex Submariner Two Tone Blue review?

The Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB is certainly a great take on an iconic dive watch. It’s a nearly perfect version of the venerable Sub that perfectly balances utilitarian toughness and timeless design. Whether you’re going to a formal event or a casual gathering, you’ll have no problem wearing this piece.

The biggest hurdle of this watch is the price. If you’re expecting to pay for a regular Sub or even the Submariner Date, you’ll be sorely disappointed. This is a 5-digit purchase which makes it a tough recommendation for beginners.

Overall, the Rolex Submariner Date 116613LB is a worthy addition to any luxury watch collection.

March 30, 2021April 15, 2021

Zelos Watches Review [In-Depth Microbrand Review]

If you’re a regular reader of Watch Ideas, you’ll know that I’ve been dipping my toes in microbrand watches. Whether it’s the over-fatigue from pricey luxury brands or just looking for something new, microbrand watches are worth checking out due to some very interesting timepieces.

Today, we’ll take a look at the Singaporean-based watch brand, Zelos. This brand has gotten my attention because unlike many microbrands, Zelos is not a brand that only knows how to make Submariner-inspired pieces that are dime a dozen these days.

For this Zelos watches review, we’ll talk about the brand’s origin, the pros and cons, and the best timepieces this brand has to offer.

About Zelos Watches

Like many humble beginnings of microbrands, Zelos Watches was made possible because of Kickstarter. Zelos launched 3 models on Kickstarter and each model comes with increasing success. The Zelos was founded in 2014 by a former mechanical engineer, Elshan Tang. He’s a watch collector himself and is always fascinated with watch movements and unique designs.

As mentioned, Zelos launched its first three models via Kickstarter. The first model, the Helmsman, has managed to get 273% of the goal funding. Next, the Zelos Chroma garnered 350% of the targeted funding. Lastly, the Abyss managed to acquire 650% of the funding which is nothing short of amazing.

One of the most notable things about Zelos is that it produces watches from non-standard materials such as bronze, titanium, meteorite discs, and more. Zelos also aims to provide timepieces with unique designs and construction with a price that won’t break a bank.

While the onslaught of microbrands might be sudden and prolific, Zelos is one of the few brands that really do stand out.

Zelos Watches Review: Pros and Cons

Are Zelos watches worth the investment? We enumerate the things that we love and we don’t love about this Singaporean-based microbrand.

What We Love

Remarkable Designs

Like I’ve said earlier, Zelos is not a brand that just tries to make Submariner-inspired timepieces. If that’s the case, I’m fairly certain that Zelos will remain a deeply obscured brand.

Zelos’ rise in popularity can be attributed to the brand’s non-traditional designs. For instance, despite the several conventions that a dive watch must adhere to, Zelos has found a way to stay unconventional. Sure, some Zelos watches that look conventional in design but for the most part, the brand did a good job of separating itself from the rest, design-wise.

Zelos’ use of non-traditional materials such as bronze, titanium, and Damascus has significantly cemented the brand’s design identity. For example, the use of a bezel crown made some of Zelos’ dive watches look like a vintage diving helmet. Another example is the Zelos Hammerhead which comes in five colorways that promote the 70’s-inspired diver aesthetic.

Another thing that stands out for me is Zelos’ attention to detail. Some of their models are brimming with intricate details, and a few to the point that it’s almost overdone. From here, you can really appreciate the watchmakers’ passion for horology.

Zelos has managed to shake up the world of microbrands due to its ever-evolving watch designs, and I’m in for the ride.

Diver Durability

When it comes to dive watches, durability comes with the territory. After, a dive watch is designed to withstand the harsh and grueling conditions of deep-sea diving. However, there are watch companies out there thinking that adding water resistance to their products automatically makes them a good dive watch.

Zelos is doing a great job of making dive watches that can actually be worn by professional divers. First, the brand uses high-quality materials for their watches. Thus, even if you’re not planning to dive anytime soon, you still have a watch that will serve you in a long time.

The level of construction in Zelos watches is worth mentioning as well. There are some models with some clunky components but in general, most Zelos watches offer the much-needed ruggedness and durability. The Zelos watches that I own feel weighty and secure. Overall, you just feel like they’re a reliable timekeeping tool.

Excellent Value

Initially, I was interested in Zelos due to their watches’ strong and unique designs. However, I was pleasantly surprised when I found out that their watches are offered at reasonable prices. Many of their popular models are available for less than a grand and some lower-end models are available for about $300 or less.

Considering that many other independent watchmakers put out more expensive models with less quality, I believe that Zelos provides a great bang for any collector’s buck. To keep the price reasonable, Zelos had to cut some corners, most specifically with the watch movements. However, the actual quality of the materials and craftsmanship is definitely up there.

With the amount of quality that goes into Zelos watches, they can easily go into a few thousand when sold by a more prestigious brand. Even the accessories such as leather straps are cost-effective. With Zelos, you just know that you’re getting your money’s worth and more.

Great Selection

Unlike many indie watch brands these days, Zelos offers a healthy number of watch collections.

For the most part, Zelos specializes in making high-quality dive watches. Its dive watch collection is impressive, from the old Helmsman series to the bigger and badder Great White collection, you’ll have no shortage in terms of choices.

As of this writing, there are 12 different collections in Zelos’ active lineup of watches. Each of the collection offers about 7-8 watches on average, with many different colorways and bezel designs. The wide variety of Zelos watches is something all watch collectors can appreciate.

What We Don’t Love

Movements Could Be Better

Zelos mainly uses ETA or Miyota movements for their watches. This is hardly a surprise considering that Zelos watches are less expensive than similar models. If Zelos starts using complex mechanical movements for their watches, the prices will skyrocket.

This isn’t exactly a bad thing but if you’re looking for something intricate and complex, you won’t find it with Zelos watches. They do use some noteworthy ETA movements such as the ETA 6498 but they’re not exactly common.

Zelos Watches are Big

Zelos only makes big watches.

If you’re looking for a 40mm dive watch, Zelos is not the brand for you. The brand aims to provide heavy-duty tool watches and making them big and bulky comes with the territory. Customers with smaller wrists will find these watches too unwieldy.

Fortunately, there’s a smaller dive watch called the Zelos Mako Diver which comes at 40mm with a lug-to-lug length of 46mm. It’s still pretty big but it’s a good option for those who are looking for something smaller.

Availability Issues

Making this Zelos watches review has been a challenge, mainly because their watches are not exactly easily available. Even places like Amazon only sells a few Zelos models. If you like Zelos watches and you want to buy one, you might out of luck.

Aside from brick and mortar stores located in Singapore and Hong Kong, there are only a few dealership websites that sell Zelos watches. Even the official Zelos websites have very limited stocks and most models are sold out. If you’re in the U.S., you can try your luck in places like the TheMicrobrandStore.

Best Zelos Watches

1. Zelos Swordfish

Named as one of the fastest fishes in the ocean, the Zelos Swordfish is a great introductory watch for would-be Zelos enthusiasts. Like many Zelos dive watches, the Swordfish is an intriguing model with robust specs.

For your information, there are two different versions of Swordfish. One comes with the NH35 movement, a proven Seiko movement and the one that comes with the ETA 2892 movement. The only significant difference between the two is that the ETA variant features a date complication.

The Zelos Swordfish impresses with its solid feel, excellent dial details, and ease of wear. The Swordfish dial features amazing details and a brushed surface. It’s just an interesting diver with a high-level presentation.

Most Zelos Swordfish watches are available for around $300+ except for the meteorite versions that can go up to $800.

2. Zelos Abyss 2

The Zelos Abyss 2 is a tank of a diver. This timepiece is cased in bronze, features a twin-crown, and powered with a Swiss automatic movement. As its namesake implies, the Abyss 2 is a bronze sea-monster that’s capable of going down to 3,000 meters of pressure.

The Abyss 2’s water resistance is completely ridiculous and unnecessary, yet it’s an awesome flagship feature. Under 3,000 meters of depth, you’ll definitely find yourself in the ocean’s dark abyss. You are probably asking, why? Zelos watchmakers will probably answer, “why not?” Zelos engineered the Abyss 2 because they can and it’s a badass thing to do.

As you might expect, the Abyss 2 is a massive solid block of metal at 51.5mm lug to lug length and 19mm thickness. It uses marine-grade CUSN8 bronze and it generates a beautiful patina over time.

It’s a proper sea-monster of a watch.

3. Zelos Skyraider

The Zelos Skyraider is one of the latest offerings from this microbrand. The Skyraider is interesting because it’s a highly legible Flieger watch and is a tribute to the A-1 Skyraider, a propeller plane by the U.S. Air Force during WW2.

The Skyraider comes in two different models: CUSN8 bronze or GR5 titanium. The warm patina of the bronze model elicits a warm feeling while the titanium gives off a contemporary, lightweight feel. I love the Skyraider’s dial with its detailed engravements and beautiful, clean lines. You can also get a version with skeletonized dial that reveals the inner components and the handwound ETA 6498 movement.

Overall, the Skyraider is a fairly unique Flieger watch with a refreshing twist.

Zelos Watches Review: Are They Any Good?

As per usual, we end this Zelos watches review with a verdict.

Are Zelos watches worth checking out? That’s a big yes! Zelos has done a great job of separating itself from other indie watch companies. The brand features some truly interesting and bold designs.

In particular, I love the dive watches from Zelos because they truly look and feel like diving tools but features impeccable style.

In terms of value, Zelos also doesn’t disappoint. The most expensive Zelos will only cost you around $2000 which is not bad at all, considering the actual quality of the watches.

If you’re looking to get into microbrands, Zelos watches are a great starting point.

March 29, 2021April 15, 2021

Rolex Sea Dweller 16600 Review: A Timeless Diving Tool

The Rolex Submariner is perhaps one of my most favorite watches of all time. As a dive watch, it can’t go toe-to-toe with the most advanced dive models but it gets the job done and in no way an inadequate dive companion.

When the Rolex Sea-Dweller was released back in the late 1960s, the Swiss watch company has a single-minded mission in mind: to reach deeper depths than the Submariner and survive anything underwater. Again, the Submariner was not seen to have flaws, so the release of the Sea-Dweller is more for the extension of the former’s diving utility.

Today, we have an in-depth (pun intended) Rolex Sea Dweller 16600 review for you.

Rolex Sea Dweller 16600 Review: At a Glance

With a water-resistance that can go to thousands of meters underwater, the Rolex Sea-Dweller is a niche offering and is geared towards saturation divers. Let’s first take a look at the key specs and features of the Rolex Sea Dweller 16600.

Model:	Rolex Sea-Dweller
Reference no.	16600
Model case:	Stainless steel w/ helium escape valve (40mm) w/ rotatable timing bezel
Oyster architecture:	Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown
Material:	Oystersteel
Bezel:	Unidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated, scratch-resistant Cerachrom insert in ceramic, numerals and graduations coated in platinum
Winding crown:	Screw-down, Twinlock double waterproofness system
Crystal:	Scratch-resistant sapphire
Water-resistance:	Waterproof to 1,220 m (4,000 ft)
Movement:	Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding
Caliber:	3135, Manufacture Rolex
Precision:	-2/+2 sec/day, after casing
Winding:	Bidirectional self-winding via Perpetual rotor
Bracelet:	Stainless steel Oyster bracelet, original Rolex
Clasp:	Stainless steel fold-over clasp with divers extension, original Rolex
Dial:	Black w/ luminous hands and hour markers
Certification:	Superlative Chronometer (COSC + Rolex certification after casing)

Reviewing the Rolex Sea Dweller 16600

First Impression

Just to be clear, the Rolex Sea-Dweller 16600 is by no means a new Rolex model. In fact, its production run ended by 2008 and it became a well-sought model as the newer Sea-Dweller was released. This is also the main reason why I’ve taken interest to this particular Sea-Dweller iteration.

As for my first impressions, I’ve quickly warmed up to the Sea-Dweller because it’s the long-lost sibling of the classic Submariner. The Submariner’s black dial design is so iconic and pleasant that the excitement came almost immediately after opening the box many years ago. With that said, the Sea-Dweller looks good and you won’t mind wearing it on a daily basis.

Right out of the box, you can tell that the Sea-Dweller 16600 is a professional tool that can take a beating. The package itself is quite special. The package includes the infamous Rolex anchor, extra dive suit links, the link changing tool for the bracelet, and a Buehlmann diving chart. It’s worth noting that the link-changing tool was exclusive to the Sea-Dweller.

One of the first things I noticed about the Sea-Dweller 16600 is the Helium escape valve (HEV) which is the signature feature of the Sea Dweller series. Other watch manufacturers have copied this system but it’s only Rolex that has done it with great success.

Design

As mentioned, the Sea Dweller 16600’s design is very similar to the Submariner, specifically to the 16610 model. They’re so similar that they might as well be the same watch. The Sea Dweller was designed for diving professionals that need a timepiece that could go a lot deeper and withstand the harshness of saturation diving.

The derivative design of the Sea Dweller is exactly why I enjoyed it the first time. The venerable black dial of the Sea Dweller is one of the main design highlights for me. The Submariner 16610 has knocked it out of the park design-wise. However, I still find myself longing for the 5513 or 14060 because of the no-date dial. The pure, clean lines are just a beauty to behold.

Fortunately, the Sea Dweller 16600 features the best of both worlds. The lack of the Cyclops lens seem a bit strange but I imagine that the lens isn’t that essential for saturation divers. The thicker, bulkier profile of the 16600 gives it an extra wrist presence.

Unfortunately, the Sea Dweller 16600 has stopped its production and its the last of the “old-style” Sea Dweller before the release of the DeepSea 116660. The design of the 16600 is just classic and timeless, but never outdated.

Construction and Wearability

Both the case and bracelet of the 16600 is made of 904L stainless steel. It doesn’t get any simple than this but still delivers in functionality. While the Sea Dweller isn’t the most popular series by Rolex, it featured some innovative construction designs.

Deep sea divers use a helium/oxygen mix in their tanks when going for a dive. Helium pressure can penetrate the crystal of the watch and can accumulate pressure due to decompression. Early deep sea divers literally saw the crystals get blown out of their watches. Rolex has addressed this issue by adding a helium escape valve into the Sea Dweller. This mechanism lets out the helium pressure once it reaches a critical point.

Along with this deep-sea diving innovation, Rolex added more to the depth rating of the watch. This timepiece features a waterproof rating of 1,220 meters (4,000 ft) which should be more than enough for most professional divers. The addition of the Triplock crown adds another layer of water resistance.

As I’ve mentioned earlier, the Sea Dweller has an extra thickness and weight to it. While it does have a significant wrist presence, it’s noticeably heavier as well. With that said, wearing the Sea Dweller 16600 isn’t exactly comfortable. This is clearly designed to be a tool watch, so it’s not something that you’ll want to wear daily.

Similar to the Submariner, the 16600 also features the dive suit extension link in the Oyster bracelet clap. This allows divers to adjust the size of the bracelet to make way for the suit.

Timekeeping

You can’t call this a Rolex Sea Dweller 16600 review without talking about its timekeeping capabilities.

At the heart of the Sea Dweller 16600 is the caliber 3135 self-winding movement. For some history, the movement was first introduced in 1988 and it quickly became the main workhorse of the Rolex brand. This venerable movement has been used to power Rolex classics like the Datejust and Submariner Date. Many experts believe that the 3135 is one of the best movements made by Rolex.

The 3135 is a high-beat movement with an oscillation at 28,800 beats per hour (BPH). The movement is based on 31 jewels and comes with a date aperture that immediately changes at exactly midnight. As far as accuracy goes, the 3135 movement is legendary for its accuracy. As expected, the 3135 is also COSC certified. Based on my experience, I didn’t have any accuracy issues with the 16600.

The quality of timekeeping is exactly what you can expect from a Rolex timepiece. There’s really nothing to complain about here.

Pricing

Because the production for the Rolex Sea Dweller 16600 has ceased, you can’t buy this piece anymore, at least not officially from Rolex. Due to the limited nature of the 16600’s availability, expect to pay a little bit higher for a used model. For reference, the Sea Dweller 126600 can be yours for around $11,000.

At this point, the Sea Dweller 16600 has become a well-sought piece for Rolex collectors. When this model was released, it was available for the $4400 retail price tag. These days, you’d be lucky to find a 16600 that doesn’t command a price of below $6000.

With that said, the Sea Dweller 16600 is a definite collector’s item and strikes a good balance between quality and value. The thing I enjoy the most about the 16600 is that it feels like a proper sequel to the Submariner 16610. From the design to overall utility of the watch, I am happy to have gotten the 16600 even at a fairly inflated price.

If you are looking to get the classic-looking Sea Dweller, the best time to act is now. There’s no telling if the price will continue to skyrocket.

Should You Get the Rolex Sea Dweller 16600?

So what’s our verdict for this Rolex Sea Dweller 16600 review?

While the Rolex Sea Dweller 16600 has made a strong first impression, it rarely makes my weekly rotation. However, that’s just me having too many watches to wear. For what it’s worth, the Sea Dweller 16600 is a strong showing for Rolex. It features a timeless, clean design that you can wear almost anywhere at any time. The watch itself is a bit on the bulkier side, so there were some compromises in terms of comfort.

If you are looking for a true dive watch for deep-sea diving, you are probably better off getting a dive computer. But that’s not saying that the Sea Dweller 16600 is not a proper dive watch because it’s actually an amazing one. Its depth rating is very impressive and there are some great dive-related innovations that remains relevant up to this day.

However, the lack of availability means that you’ll be spending more than you have to and you still get a used piece.

Overall, the Sea Dweller 16600 is a hardcore Rolex for the hardcore deep-divers. Yes, the newer version is even more hardcore but visually, I think the 16600 is the superior choice here. I am in no way a diver but there’s a lot to love here even for non-dive watch fans.

March 26, 2021April 13, 2021

Momentum Watches Review: Solid Timepieces That Just Work

For many months now, I’ve been dipping my toes into microbrand watches. Some smaller brands, in my opinion, have missed the mark while some have absolutely nailed their vision. Today, we’re going to talk about a microbrand that has hit its mark.

Today, we’re going to talk about Momentum Watches, a Canadian-based company that has made a wide range of timepieces – from dive watches to dress watches.

For this Momentum watches review, we’ll talk about the brief history of the brand, break down the things that we love and don’t love, and review some of the best pieces this brand has to offer.

About Momentum Watches

Momentum watches have been around since 1980. As mentioned earlier, Momentum watches is based in Vancouver, Canada. Actually, the company that works on the watches itself is called St. Moritz Watch Corp. However, the company designs, assembles, and services the watches under the Momentum.

The company’s main philosophy is to design and manufacture watches with casual and active but straightforward designs. The company claims that its watches feature excellent waterproof performance at a reasonable price. Most, if not all, of their watches are catered towards people with an active lifestyle.

Many of Momentum’s watches have a familiar and classic design – another thing that’s in-line with their design philosophy. This watch company isn’t looking to buck the trend but it’s a slave to trends either. Momentum focuses on making watches that have quality, functionality, and style.

Momentum Watches Review: Pros and Cons

Is it worth adding a Momentum timepiece to your collection? Here are the things that I love and appreciate about Momentum watches and some aspects that I don’t care about.

What We Love

1. No-Nonsense Design Philosophy

Sometimes, you just have to step back and appreciate what a watch company is trying to do. Momentum is not trying to revolutionize the watch industry with advanced timekeeping mechanisms and space-age construction, their main design philosophy is to make watches for the everyday people.

That’s something that I can get behind.

Momentum watches are something that you can wear and just go about your day. Even their best dive watches and high-end field timepieces have relatively traditional designs but reliable ruggedness. The features on the watches are about as basic as you can get but that’s perfectly fine.

If you are looking for a brand with a no-nonsense approach to their watches, it’s worth looking into what Momentum has to offer.

2. Rugged, Durable Timepieces

In light of Momentum’s philosophy of watches that just works, their timepieces are ultra-rugged, durable, and require little to no maintenance.

Despite not being premium, luxury pieces, many Momentum’s products are made from high-quality components like 316L steel, sapphire crystals, AR coating, and other durable materials. These are watches that can take quite a beating which is why it’s used by many professionals.

As of now, Momentum watches can be found on the wrist of law enforcement, firefighters, coast guards, and military personnel.

3. Looking Good

Momentum watches aren’t going to win any awards when it comes to fresh or innovative designs. However, that’s not to say that the watches aren’t good looking.

In fact, Momentum offers plenty of great-looking watches.

The designs of Momentum watches can be quite derivative but I have no problem wearing them on my wrist. For instance, the Momentum 1M-SP00B6B Atlas Titanium is a nice-looking field watch with a bold and legible dial. The Momentum Fieldwalker Adventure Watch is another watch that features a rock-solid design and is frankly very fashionable.

For certain, you won’t have a problem wearing Momentum watches daily.

4. Reasonable Price Tag

Perhaps the main selling point of Momentum watches is their price tags. These watches won’t cost an arm and leg but you still get a quality timekeeping tool.

The price range for Momentum watches ranges from $99-$300 which is great considering their overall quality. Because of this, Momentum is a good brand for up and coming watch collectors or if you’re in the market for a good gift watch.

There’s simply a lot of watch here for the money.

What We Don’t Love

1. Inconsistencies with Quality

While Momentum units have respectable quality, it’s worth noting that it’s still a microbrand. With that said, I found some quality issues with some Momentum watches I’ve checked.

This is especially true with entry-level models.

This is quite understandable with lower-end models because the company has to cut some corners here and there. Perhaps the most obvious solution to keep the cost down is with the movement. While the Miyota movement gets the job done, I just feel that it could be better while still keeping the cost down. There are also strap quality issues with some of the models.

In general, Momentum watches are well-built, there were just a couple of quality issues that are hard to ignore.

2. Derivative Designs

As mentioned earlier, Momentum’s timepieces are good-looking on their own. However, I must say that most of their designs are rather uninspired.

Many of their design elements look to be lifted from other brands like Seiko and Citizen. Now, there’s nothing wrong with this in general but if you’re looking for an inspired timekeeping tool, Momentum might not be the brand for you.

Don’t expect these watches to be the pinnacle of timekeeping design.

Best Momentum Watches

Of course, we can’t have a Momentum watches review without highlighting some of the best units the brand has to offer. Here are watches that best represent Momentum in my opinion.

1. Momentum Steelix Field Watch

The Momentum Steelix Field Watch is perhaps one of the most popular watches by Momentum – for good reason.

Rock-Solid Design

The Momentum Steelix Field Watch has caught my eye because it features a design that’s similar to a vintage Seiko. When I got the watch, it looks and feels like a well-constructed unit.

I also tend to gravitate towards black dialed watches so the Steelix is the first model I’ve checked for writing this Momentum watches review. With that said, the dial looks attractive with the charcoal color, bold numerals, and sword-style hands. Legibility is also excellent for this watch which is a must if you’re planning to wear it on the field.

The Steelix does feel a little bit heavy but it’s not that big of a deal once you get used to it. After several adjustments, the watch sits comfortably on my wrist. The nylon band could be better but it’s durable enough for people with an active lifestyle.

The Steelix Field Watch is one of the more impressive models by Momentum. Plus, it comes with a great price tag and is a great value for money.

2. Momentum M50 Mark II

The Momentum M50 Mark II is yet another popular piece by the brand. The M50 Mark II is touted by the company as their toughest watch, bar none. It’s a dive that’s good enough for deep-sea exploration, so take that as you will.

From Deep-Sea Diving to Beater

The Momentum M50 Mark II is a great option for a dive watch that won’t break the bank. With a water-resistance rating of 500M / 1650FT, this is a diver that you can reliably wear underwater. It’s no wonder that it has become a prime choice for law enforcement, special forces, firefighters, and EMT professionals.

One of the first things that you’ll notice about the M50 Mark II is its airtight construction. It just feels solid and appropriately rugged. Plus, the scratch-proof sapphire crystal does a great job of protecting the dial. Even if you’re not looking for a dive watch that will serve you underwater, this one makes an excellent beater watch.

For timekeeping and power, the M50 Mark II houses the Japanese Quartz Movement and 10-year battery life for precise timekeeping and longevity. The dial is also fully lumed which comes in handy for low-light conditions like under the ocean.

Overall, the M50 Mark II is very impressive as far as affordable dive watches go.

3. Momentum Atlas Titanium

Lastly, the Momentum Atlas Titanium is another successful creation by this Canadian-based watchmaker. It’s another field watch with a restrained look and a very nice feel to it.

Super Luminous Field Watch

First, the thing that I love the most about the Momentum Atlas Titanium is its size. The 38mm case is a good size for a field watch such as this. The Atlas Titanium sits nicely on the wrist and it doesn’t hurt that it has a striking yet restrained look.

The face just screams “field watch” style and reminds me of some Hamilton watches. The dial is bold, simple, and legible – the oversized numbers made sure of that. The superluminous hands and numbers look quite nice during low-light conditions. However, the white dial version can be particularly bright.

Of course, you can’t talk about the watch without mentioning the Titanium case. The case is gray, matte-finished titanium. While it looks nice on its own, I would have preferred a brushed finish. As is, the case has like a sort of “plasticky” feel to it. However, it’s hard to complain about titanium cases especially at this price point.

Overall, the Momentum Atlas Titanium is a simple, durable, easy to wear and use field watch. It’s another Momentum watch that offers a great value proposition.

Momentum Watches Review: Are They Any Good?

Finally, we conclude this Momentum watches review with a verdict.

The watches by Momentum comes highly recommended. This particular microbrand doesn’t break any ground but it doesn’t need to. There are some issues with quality but they’re not enough to make me turn away. There’s just so much watch here for your money.

Momentum watches are stylish, functional, and offers great value. Check them out if you’re in the market for a good entry-level to mid-range watch.

March 20, 2021April 9, 2021

Deep Blue Watches Review [In-Depth Brand Review]

As you may know, microbrands are making a big splash in the watch industry. Microbrands are usually small watch companies that are fairly new in the business. However, our featured brand review for today is not exactly a new-ish company but still qualifies as a microbrand.

Today, we’re going to do a brand review of Deep Blue.

Deep Blue is a brand that’s usually referred to as the “indie diver.” This is because this microbrand is solely devoted to selling diver watches – the only one of its kind in the industry. They have been around since 2007, so they’re not exactly a new company.

For this Deep Blue watches review, we take a plunge and find out if this microbrand is a hit or miss.

History of Deep Blue Watches

Founded in 2007, Deep Blue Watches is an American company that’s based in New York. As mentioned, Deep Blue not only specializes in dive watches but it’s the only type of watch that they manufacture.

In the past, true dive watches have strict applications – either for military or deep sea explorations. These dive watches are referred to as “tool watches.” However, these dive watches aren’t exactly the best-looking tools out there.

Although there were so-called dive watches that graced the market, many of them can’t be used by members of the armed forces or professional divers. Deep Blue Watches has presented a solution by pioneering a collection of true diver watches – looks stylish on land but can go deep in the sea.

The company motto is “Precision Diver” which basically refers to robust and dependable timepieces that can be used by professional divers and military personnel. Deep Blue watches are designed with value and dependability in mind. They have dive models that can travel to depths of up to 3000 meters, without sacrificing accuracy and durability.

To some extent, Deep Blue Watches has helped revitalized the dive watch industry. The brand may not have the same prestige and legacy as other dive brands, it’s still a well-respected brand among collectors.

Deep Blue Watches Review: Pros and Cons

Should you go to the deep end by buying Deep Blue watches? We highlight the things that we love and we don’t love about this dive watch microbrand.

What We Love

High-Performance Timepieces

Deep Blue is exclusively manufacturing dive watches and they know exactly how to put out a well-designed piece. The best thing about Deep Blue dive watches is that they don’t just look the part but with the performance as well.

The best dive watch is durable and of course, can handle the great depths of the ocean. Due to their solid construction and design, some of the best Deep Blue divers can handle depths of 3,000 meters. That is a mighty impressive performance for a dive watch.

Now, I am not a professional diver myself and won’t be coming near the ocean anytime soon. However, I have been looking around and it seems that professional divers have taken a liking to Deep Blue watches. It’s feedback like this that will let you know that Deep Blue is the real deal as far as dive watches go.

Based on my experience, Deep Blue watches are yet to disappoint when it comes to durability and dependability.

Thoughtful Design Decisions

While Deep Blue didn’t exactly set the world of dive watches on fire, I do appreciate some of the design decisions that this company has made.

For instance, some of the Deep Blue models have ceramic or sapphire bezels that are comparable with some high-end luxury watches. The thing is, Deep Blue divers aren’t exactly high-end, so it’s certainly nice to see high-end features from a mid-range brand.

Another thing I love about their dive watches is the adjustable wetsuit extensions on bracelets. This goes to show that Deep Blue is truly catering to professional divers. Many watchmakers can get away with simply jacking up a timepiece’s water resistance and call it a dive watch.

These thoughtful design decisions by Deep Blue deserves a lot of respect.

Good Value

If you are looking for a robust and dependable tool watch, it’s hard to go wrong with what Deep Blue has to offer. One of Deep Blue’s core values is to provide top-notch value to customers who are willing to give them a chance.

This means providing timepieces that are accurate, durable, and have good designs. However, they are also adamant in keeping the costs of their watches on the affordable side. True enough, even the highest end model will remain below $1,000, except for the Master 2000 series.

For a dive watch, this is simply unheard of, especially considering the quality of Deep Blue watches.

Excellent Customer Support

The folks at Deep Blue stands by their products 110%. This really shows once you get in touch with their customer support.

Just for this Deep Blue watches review, I’ve contacted their support to ask some questions. I was pleasantly surprised at how responsive and helpful the support team is. I was expecting some canned response from the representative but instead, I was treated to some great solutions to my issues.

They gave me the impression that they will always tend to my needs. For lesser-known brands like Deep Blue, excellent customer service can go a long way in bolstering their reputation.

What We Don’t Love

Derivative Aesthetic

If you are in the market for a one-of-a-kind dive watch with a unique design, you won’t find it in Deep Blue.

While most Deep Blue watches feature a solid design, it’s clear that the company took some inspirations from other popular dive watches such as the Citizen’s Blue Promaster or Seiko Prospex SRP775. Deep Blue dive watches aren’t exactly a pinnacle of originality.

However, Deep Blue does offer watches that look unique such as the Deep Blue Abyss. Also, for some reason, some models can be quite difficult to read at a glance.

Just Dive Watches?

This is more of a nitpick than anything.

Deep Blue knows what they are doing and can put out quality timepieces. Thus, I was hoping that they would branch out to other types of watches. If you don’t like dive watches, Deep Blue has nothing for you.

However, this company has plenty of good-looking watches that you can avail of. You don’t have to be a professional diver or military to appreciate their collection. I know for a fact that I’ll wear my Deep Blue watches casually, and that’s fine.

Just a wishful thinking on my part.

Best Deep Blue Watches

1. Deep Blue Master 1000 Automatic Diver

You can’t have a good Deep Blue watches review without mentioning one of its most popular models, the Deep Blue Master 1000 Automatic Diver.

Solid Diver with Great Value

The Deep Blue Master 1000 Automatic Diver caught my eye because it has fairly decent specs and it’s available for less than $300 (depending on the color options).

This being a dive watch, can go to 300 meters which is already a lot if you’re planning to use it casually. However, it’s just good to know that this watch can go deep.

One of the first things you’ll notice is that the Master 1,000 is a massive watch with a 44mm case and 15mm in height. It features a helium release valve at 10 o’clock and a unidirectional bezel. You just know right off the bat that this diver is not messing around.

The watch is powered by a Seiko NH 35 automatic movement which is quite pedestrian as far as automatic watches go. There’s also a date window that is not often seen with dive models. The bezel is ceramic and the lume offers incredible visibility in low-light situations.

Overall, the Deep Blue Master 1000 Automatic Diver can go deep without digging deep within your pockets.

2. Deep Blue Diver 1000 Automatic

The Deep Blue Diver 1000 Automatic is also another great recommendation for dive watches under $1,000. This model can go even deeper than the Master 1000 but not by much.

A Sporty, Stylish Diver

One thing that you’ll appreciate about this diver is that it’s available in many different colorways and bracelet types. I have the Diver 1000 Black/Red Bezel and it’s a great looking watch that I can wear daily and dressier events. Some of the unique ones are the Abalone Shell and Orange Sunray.

Again, this is a fairly large watch at a 44mm case and 15mm thickness. It comes in a 316L stainless steel case which provides a good deal of durability. While the watch is a bit on the bulky side, it surprisingly doesn’t feel larger when worn. The bulky profile does give off the impression that it’s a tool watch.

For the movement, the Diver 1000 comes with a 21.6k bph Seiko NH35. It’s stable, accurate, and helps keep the price down.

Overall, it’s a perfectly capable dive watch with a stylish flair.

3. Deep Blue Pro Sea Diver

If you’re a professional diver who’s looking for a dive watch but doesn’t want to spend too much, the Deep Blue Pro Sea Diver is worth checking out.

For the Hardcore Underwater Explorers

The Pro Sea Diver is available in many different bezel colors such as black and blue, orange, and black and green. The rotating bezel is a thing of beauty with its 120 oddly satisfying clicks. The bezel and case give the watch a gear-like look.

The plain blue dial nails the typical dive watch element and I must say that it looks even better in person. At 3 o’clock sits the date window and all the hands and markers are generously lumed.

Again, this watch is powered by the respectable 24-jewel Seiko NH36 movement with an accuracy of -20 to +40 seconds per day. It’s not the best movement but it offers consistency and accuracy with a solid power reserve.

Of course, you can’t review this watch without mentioning the 1,000-meter depth rating. That’s right, it’s a professional dive watch by all means.

Deep Blue Watches Review: Are They Any Good?

To end this Deep Blue watches review, we now put down our verdict.

Should you check out what Deep Blue has to offer? Only if you’re looking for a high-performance boutique dive watch that won’t break the bank. For the money, you get a lot of watch that will serve you well, even if you’re not a professional diver. If for some reason that you don’t like dive watches, Deep Blue might just not be the brand for you.

March 18, 2021April 7, 2021

Oris Watches Review: Affordable Luxury Watches

One thing we admire about the Oris watches is their versatility and ability to fall within any category, whether Aviation, Dive, sports, or fashion. However, with so many options of watches to choose from today’s market, you have a lot to consider before making a decision. In today’s article we will cover the Oris Watches Review and the available options for each category.

Most available watches are by companies who are either just starting to blend into the market or already overhyped. New brands have to deal with multiple comparisons to both mid to high-end spectrum top contenders, such as Rolex or Omega.

Oris, on the other hand, is a Swiss watch company with a reputation for making mechanical watches for over 100 years. Regardless, watch enthusiasts like to place the quality of this watch on par with TAG Heuer and Longines. Experts meticulously build each model of the Oris watch, of course with several distinguishing factors.

Oris watches offer an interesting alternative by making reliable watches with all-around quality that are not as expensive as the others – this doesn’t mean it has lower quality. In fact, some Oris watches have more outstanding features than the Tag.

Pros – Oris watches

Trustworthy Brand
Top-quality Build
Versatile timepiece
Excellent movement
Accurate Watch
Reasonably priced

Cons – Oris watches

Weak resale value
Limited warranty

Benefits / Drawbacks – Oris watches

Trustworthy Brand

For a brand to survive the challenges of the market and various competitions since 1904, Oris has to be trusted. All Oris watches are Switzerland-made and this remained true since two men, Paul Cattin and Le Locle Georges Christian bought the Swiss Lohner & Co. watch factory which recently closed. They went further to renaming it “Oris” after a valley and a brook at the Swiss town of Holstein. Ten years later, this privately owned company expanded with another factory and an assembly plant to become the largest employer in Holstein. Soon, they already had up to six factories.

The secret behind the classic designs of the watch is their rich history that’s dated back to the 1960s when Oris had a market of about 1.2 million timepieces per year. At that time, the company became one of the largest watch brands around the globe. With Oris SA as the corporate name today, Oris watches remain a top competitor in the world of genuine Swiss Made watches.

Top-quality Build

Like we have mentioned earlier, the Oris watches have qualities to be compared with renowned brands, such as TAG Heuer and Longines. By making solid watches with various improved models, they have reserved a place for themselves on the market.

The total build of the watch is of top quality, including the watch’s movement that is identifiable with distinctive red rotors. Oris watches lacks nothing you would desire from a perfect timepiece. Each model, including the new ones, have a sense of aesthetic attachment to the nineties.

Versatile Timepiece

They are versatile enough to have something for everyone regardless of the category, such as Aviation, Diving, Motorsport, and Culture. The aviation collection includes the Big Crown series with each model having unique features such as GMT, altimeter, world time, meter scale, and more. The qualities are suitable for aviators, pilots, and other aeronauts.

The Motorsport collections are durable and light weighted for Motor Racing Professionals and drivers. Some include the Oris Williams, Oris Chronoris, Oris TT1, and Oris Artix GT. These watches have their specific attributes and can also be useful for daily wears.

The Oris Aquis, Oris Divers, and Oris ProDiver make up the Divers collection. They feature changeable strap material, and Super LumiNova filled hands and markers. The Divers collections are water-resistant and suitable for Scuba divers, professional swimmers, Diving instructors and other subaquatic related activities.

Under the Culture collections are the Oris Artelier and the Oris Calibre series. They comprise of the simple and classic styled watches. The collection pays tribute to several artistic and cultural influences.

Excellent movement

Oris watches do not use the regular battery-powered Quartz movement. Instead, they use a few different mechanical movements powered by springs. Oris is not known to build their movement fully. Most Oris watches use calibers from unfinished ebauche movements. This modular movement is a sort of template that allows Oris to reform and integrate their own features to suit whichever watch they choose.

Take the Big Crown ProPilot Worldtimer, for instance; it’s a GMT watch with dual time zone function that uses the Oris Caliber 690. This Oris 690 Caliber uses the base of an ETA2836-2 automatic movement from ETA, which is a subsidiary of Swat Group. So evidently, they don’t have an in house movement.

But that’s not to say Oris movement performs poorly or is inferior. Asides from a few widely celebrated brands. Most watchmakers are not equipped to create all their components entirely in-house. ETA’s movements are tremendous, and Oris improves on them.

Accurate Watch

The accuracy of all watches depends on how they’re regulated. Either the Oris watch uses an ETA based caliber or a Selitta based movement, they can be adjusted. The regulation within the parameters of accuracy makes the Oris watch consistent with some of the best and most reliable pieces in the business. All Oris watches are authentic; some do come with a COSC certificate to prove it.

Price and Some Thoughts

Compared to brands like Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin or Patek Philippe, Oris is not one of the watches you will refer to as high-end. Instead, they fall under the categories of affordable or value-added luxury. With the type of Mechanical Powered calibers that Oris watches use, you can’t consider them as lower market brands, such as Michael Kors or Invicta. You may prefer to put them somewhere in the middle.

Oris watches are modestly priced Swiss-made mechanical timepieces with utmost quality and value. You can find Oris to be one of the best men’s watches under 2000 dollars. If you consider how much they offer, you will realize how affordable and very well-priced the Oris watches are.

As they unbiasedly market their watches, even to the average layman, Oris love to use the slogan “Real watches for Real People.” This may be the reason for the modest price. Every day they achieve their mission of producing excellent valuable watches that are very affordable.

Due to the high-quality timepieces they offer, Oris can decide to charge more for their product if they want. Chances are, they would get it; only that it would shut down their ability to reach a broader audience of people who cannot afford watches at a higher price.

Economically, it’s a strategy that makes less profit off individual watches and sell more. It gives more people around the world the chance to wear and at the same time advertise the Oris brand.

Weak Resale Value

Oris watches are on par with some of the best valuable watchmakers in the Swiss-made watch industry. Other remarkable brands like TAG Heuer only provide battery-powered quartz watches and still offer them at the same price point with Oris.

Most people like to see luxury watches as some investment that is supposed to appreciate over time. That’s some people’s view, and it’s not always so. Watches require some kind of maintenance every few years, where they lose a portion of their value from their initial purchase.

Asides from Rolex, some Patek Philippe models, and a few exceptions that can hold their value, most brands have weak resale value. For Oris, it would be a mistake to expect the price to go up or even stay the same. It’s safe to say Oris watches are not suitable investments like real estate or normal securities.

The moment you step out of the store with your watch, the value starts to drop. Unless you plan to rent them out, Oris watches are not the type of assets that generates income. But the good thing is that the watch is luxury good.

Limited Warranty

Oris international sales warranty is limited to 23 months after the date of purchase. A warranty period of only 23 months can seem fair for some brands, but at the price of the Oris watches few users expect more. You can accomplish this guaranteed period only when you have adhered to the product’s manual, and you buy your watch from an authorized dealer.

You can check your warranty status from the Oris official website. However, they may require your serial number or warranty code to proceed. Oris service center offers you a chance to polish or repair your watch.

Should you get the Oris watches?

At this point, it’s important to note that Oris is one of the few Swiss watchmakers to offer only mechanical watches. The watches have a distinctive red rotor design as the company’s symbol of mechanical approach and a means of identification.

The build-up is only from the best materials, which are the reasons for Oris’s promise of watches that lasts for a long time. The company adheres to the best standards in its manufacturing and use the tightest quality control as required of a Swiss-made brand.

What attracts most people to the Oris watches is the price range. Of course, they’re not so cheap, neither are they as expensive as their peers. Oris continues to gain popularity among experts and watch collectors because other luxury brands offer their qualities at a higher price.

Bottom Line – Oris Watches Review

Compared to its high-end competitors, Oris is modest with its prices and a better investment. They offer an extensive list of models. If this is your first time with the Oris watch, then you’re in for a treat.

Oris brand is not new in the game; it’s a trusted Swiss brand that produces some of the best classic watches in the world. Each model has a bit of innovation and still stays true to Oris’s long history. They favor themselves for being creative and making exciting and timeless timepieces.

March 17, 2021April 7, 2021

Ball Watches Review: In-depth Review of Popular Ball Watches

We consulted different notable horologists and carried out in-depth ball watches review on the best models. With our findings, we chose the Ball Engineer Master II Diver as our favorite. The reason is that not only does it look elegant on the wrist, but it also has a high level of water resistance. What is even better is that it can withstand up to 5000Gs of shock and works great in areas with high magnetic fields.

Ball Watches Review

If you are looking for a watch company with an intriguing past, then you should check out the Bell Watch company. In the 19th century, the owner, Webb C. Ball, was the first watchmaker to design timepieces with standard time signals while holding a top post in the railroad industry.

He set up guidelines that many watch companies use to design precision watches. These rules affected several features, including the dial arrangement, power reserve, and anti-magnetism.

Presently, Ball creates watches with unique designs and features that show its railroad roots. With a Ball watch, you can partake in various activities under different conditions. This is because it comes with specs and a build that ensures durability and functionality.

On this Ball watches review, we will be looking closely at some of the brand popular timepieces and their features. We will also see if the features are worth its hefty price tag.

Short Story of Ball Watch

Although the company creates beautiful watches, its history is gloomy. It was born after a fatal train accident that was caused by poor timing from the authorities.

To prevent a similar occurrence, Webster C. Ball, a watchmaker, was appointed as the “Chief Time Inspector.” He created strict timing standards that led to the birth of the company’s logo. During this time, the company created timepieces with movements from Elgin, Waltham, and Hamilton. These watches had the words “Official RR Standard” printed on each of their dials.

In the mid and late 1900s, the company was sold due to low interest among consumers. But today, Ball has risen as an Asian brand that makes Swiss watches with several exciting features. These include its gas tubes for easy reading, sturdy built, and elegant dial.

Currently, a descendant of Webb Ball plays some roles in the company, but I am not sure of his duties. If you want to know more about Ball’s gloomy origins, you can visit its official website for more details.

Let’s get started with a Ball watch Fireman review, where I will tell you more about its impressive features.

Best Ball Watches

1. Ball Fireman Storm Chaser Pro

This new timepiece designed for storm chasers at all levels came into existence when they partnered with a member of the BALL Explorer club and Ball Ambassador, Dr. Joshua Wurman.

The Fireman Storm Chaser Pro is a sturdy watch that can withstand extreme physical activity. It also stands as a trendy, clean fashion accessory with practical features such as a robust build and luminous gas tubes. While we’re still on the review of ball watches, let’s see other specs Firestorm chaser has to offer.

Case

The Storm Chaser Pro features a 42mm steel case that measures 16mm in height. This size might come as a relief, especially for people who think the current Storm Chaser is too bulky.

The dial inside the case depends on the variant of the Storm Pro. One model offers a white dial while two others have either a black or grey dial. But all dials house glowing microtubes with which you can read the watch in poorly lit environments or at night.

Dial

Another reason to love the Storm Chaser Pro is its legible and functional display. Here, you have a telemeter scale with which you can measure your distance from a lightning strike. Moreover, the chronograph begins during a lightning strike and ends when thunder rumbles. It has two sub-dial, and at the 3 o’clock marker, a display window shows the day and date.

Movement

This watch includes the Ball Ball’sBall’s RR1402 automatic chronograph movement. With such a feature, the timepiece promises 25 jewels and a power reserve of 48 hours. Overall, it offers a high level of precise timekeeping.

Bezel

The top of the case has a narrow bezel which makes the watch look bigger. This bezel is made of aluminum and stands as the thinnest on any Ball watch. It also secures anti-reflective sapphire crystal on this timepiece.

Price

Many horologist and watch lovers are always intrigued to get ball timepieces because of its impressive designs. And it is no doubt because they keep on offering new models that are unique in their own way. The best part is that they never fail to make their watch eye-catching and easy to read due to the micro gas illumination feature. With the price of the Firestorm chaser pro below $3000 and its high shock resistance, it worth to be a great investment for anyone looking for the best firefighter watches or elegant timepieces.

Wearability

Like most Ball watches, the Fireman Storm Chaser comes in a calfskin leather strap. Although it has a unique look, it fits with the overall design of this Ball watch. It even feels soft against the skin, thereby making it an ideal item for prolonged use.

If you prefer metal, you can purchase the timepiece with a stainless bracelet, but at a different price. For lovers of other types of straps, you can replace any of the mentioned designs with your preferred bracelet option.

Opinion and Drawbacks

Despite its affordable price, the Storm Chaser Pro can hold its own against expensive watches. After all, it boasts of gas tubes that do not require a recharge while sporting an attractive but durable design. However, it might look out of place on smaller wrists because of its chunky case.

2. Ball Engineer Master II Diver Black Face

As expected from a brand with over a century of matchmaking, Ball has created a diving timepiece that maintains a vintage look while offering elegance and durability. This watch – the Ball Engineer Master II Diver, also promises exceptional water resistance, without sacrificing its impressive design.

Fortunately, it costs less than $2,000, which makes it an ideal item for the budget-conscious watch snob. Here are other specs on this timepiece that make it a worthy investment.

Case

This part of the watch is circular and measures 41.5m with a 14mm thickness, thereby making it comfortable for extended use. It has a stainless steel case that looks attractive on the wrist and can handle the pressures of knocks and moisture. You will also find it easy to clean.

The watch also has a screw-down case back that provides a water-tight seal. With such features, it stays protected from splashes and prevents dust and dirt from entering the watch.

Dial

There are many things to love about the dial of the Ball Engineer Master II Diver. First, it comes in black with white inner bezels, giving it a luxurious and practical feel. It also has micro gas tubes on its markers for easy reading under low light conditions.

A sheet of sapphire glass covers the elegant dial. This crystal can resist scratches while offering improved readability with its anti-reflective coating.

Strap

A stainless steel bracelet holds the watch to your wrist. For added security, Ball added a folding buckle to the end of the bracelet. Overall, there is no need to worry about losing your watch during physical activities on land or sea.

If you don’t like the feel of metal, you can swap this part for a rubber strap with a standard buckle. Although it looks weaker than steel, it can handle moisture and offer comfort at the same time.

Movement

Ball watches have a reputation for accurate timekeeping due to its classic movement. Here, the Ball Engineer Master II Diver uses a Swiss Automatic that offers the same level of accuracy with ease.

Water Resistance

Unlike other timepieces listed in this ball watches review, the Engineer Master Diver II has a high level of water resistance. It offers a water resistance of 300m. With this said, you can use the watch for various aquatic activities including swimming and scuba diving. It also has a screw-down crown that helps keep moisture and dust out of its internal components.

Anti-Magnetism

Typically, automatic watches are more precise than manual variants. However, this accuracy can be affected by magnetic fields.

If you are looking for a watch that can perform in areas with high magnetic fields, choose the Ball Engineer Master II Diver. It can withstand magnetism up to 12,000 A/m.

Opinion and Drawbacks

The watch is an attractive but not an affordable option for the watch enthusiast or professional diver. It also offers a higher level of accuracy because of its anti-magnetic properties. However, it might look bulky on smaller wrists.

3. Ball Gents-Wristwatch Engineer Hydrocarbon AeroGMT II

If you are a fan of high-end GMT models, but you are shopping on a budget, then you should add the Engineer Hydrocarbon AeroGMT II to your list. This is because it cost less and has similar specs offered on watches from flagship brands.

These specs include a readable dial and an attractive rotating bezel. It also has a build that can handle knocks, falls without showing signs of wear, and tear. Below are some of the exciting features on the timepiece.

Case

Without adding the crown, the case on this item measures at 42mm while having a thickness of 14mm. With such dimensions, the watch will fit various wrist sizes without adding extra weight to them.

This case is made of stainless steel which remains attractive after years of repeated uses. It even has a sapphire crystal that can resist scratches with ease.

Dial

The design on the watch includes a black dial surrounded by a movable sapphire bezel with luminous markers. On the dial, it features luminous hands, which allow easy readability at night. The anti-reflective coating on the crystal further enhances this legibility.

You can read the date at the position between the 4 and 5 o’clock position. If you want to check the day of the week, you will have to move to the window on 3 o’clock position.

Strap

The watch has a tapered stainless steel bracelet which ends in a folding buckle and extension buckle. Such a feature helps the timepiece remain on your wrist during any physical activity. Moreover, the material used can withstand corrosion with ease.

The watch also comes in a model that includes a rubber strap with a standard buckle. As expected, this strap can also handle corrosion and offer comfort like the metal variant.

Power Reserve

Apart from offering a reasonable level of accuracy, the movement also supports a power reserve of 42 hours. This reserve ensures you enjoy similar accuracy timekeeping even if the watch is not on your wrist. It also prevents you from winding the watch at regular intervals.

GMT Functions

Since the watch is designed for the global traveler, it includes a GMT feature with dual time zones. This feature helps you know the time in your home city and destination with relative ease.

Opinion and Drawbacks

Investing in the Ball Gents-Wristwatch Engineer Hydrocarbon AeroGMT II is not a poor choice. This is true especially as it has features that suit all forms of activity, including air travel. These include a robust build, GMT functions, readable dial, and comfortable strap. Besides, it is more affordable at less than $4,000.

But its 42mm case might look bulky thereby making it unsuitable for smaller wrists. It also has a water resistance of 100m which cannot hold against diving or swimming for long periods.

Ball Watches Review: Do They Worth the Investment

This brings us to the final roundup of the Ball watches review. With origins rooted in railroad history, Ball has designed watches that fit various activities and looks. For instance, Ball Engineer Master II Diver has impressive features for the pro-diver. As for the Engineer Hydrocarbon AeroGMT , it handles the timing needs of international travel while the Storm Chaser Pro is a perfect choice for storm chasing and one of the best watches for Firefighter.

Although they have impressive features, they are high-end watches. Ball watchmaker offers specs that include a durable design, micro gas tubes, Swiss automatic movement, and power reserve. Furthermore, they can rival the options offered by expensive brands.

In summary, you can get an excellent Ball watches for half the price of either a Rolex or Omega timepiece with similar specs. So if you are on the lookout for a vintage watch that combines modern design and specs for a reasonable price, you should consider checking Ball’s line of watches.

March 16, 2021April 7, 2021

Longines HydroConquest Review

The Longines HydroConquest line of diving watches are top-of-the-line accessories for the modern businessman. They feature a professional style that also works well with casual attire. If you would like to invest in a premium Swiss brand sports watch, you should consider this line of luxury wristwatches.

As a modern entrepreneur, I needed a wristwatch I could wear with my best suit for those important conference meetings, but also wanted an accessory that would work for weekend get-togethers with friends and family.

The HydroConquest line from Longines easily caught my attention. I was aware of their unsurpassed reputation for creating quality watches. And I admired the dressy casual look of their timepieces. Also, the brand’s customer ratings are some of the best I’ve seen for a watch manufacturer in several years.

Who is the Longines HydroConquest Wristwatch Designed For?

The Longines line of HydroConquest watches were not designed for one single target audience. Instead, the manufacturers created a watch design for a much broader range of customers. The look caters to business professionals and watch enthusiasts alike. Especially those interested in a stylish and long-lasting accessory.

This diving sports watch is water-resistant up to 30 bar. However, that doesn’t mean it is strictly for divers. The chronological dial and luxurious look make this impressive sports watch an excellent choice. The watch is perfect for today’s busy CEOs and top negotiators. It is resistant to both dust and water. This means you can easily wear this sports watch daily without worrying about damage from the elements.

Watch collectors and enthusiasts love this line. Mainly because it features a classic Swiss watch style with several extras. Those extras make the HydroConquest line unique. The sports watch collection offered in various designs features gold or silver straps. The watches are also available with straps made from synthetic materials. The variety of designs allows customers to find one watch to match s their inimitable personality and style preference.

Why We Recommend This Line of Diving Watches

When a watch has enough staying power to remain one of the most talked about diving watches for more than a decade, it’s worth looking into. The HydroConquest was first introduced in 2007 and remains one of the best Swiss made watches you can buy.

The specifications for this collection are impressive 10 years after their release. But as a consumer, you shouldn’t rely on technical aspects alone. It’s impossible to tell how nice a watch truly is unless you try it out for yourself.

Even though I’m not a diver, I do consider myself a watch enthusiast. And I have always loved the rugged yet sophisticated look of Longines’ diver watches. Their sleek design makes them stand out just enough to get noticed. But at the same time, they offer just the right amount of flair so that they don’t take the attention away from the rest of your attire.

Like most Swiss watches, those from the Longines HydroConquest line are designed to outlast any other general sports watch available. They are manufactured using only the finest and most durable materials in the industry.

Designing a mechanical watch that will outlast the owner seems impossible. But that is what he Longines brand strives to achieve with every luxury watch they create.

The Longines brand pays attention to detail. And that fact alone makes their watches worth checking into.

The Features You Will Love About The Longines HydroConquest Watch

The Longines HydroConquest diving watch is a work of art in itself. It features a 41mm diameter stainless steel case. That helps ensure that it remains water resistant up to 300 meters. The steel material is heavy, but refined. This makes it a durable piece that is also comfortable to wear. Leaving the wearer with a very solid feel. The durability you can both see and feel with this watch is sure to provide divers with the confidence they need to take this watch deep into the water without concerns.

All watches in the HydroConquest line feature the impressive Longines caliber 633 movement. These timepieces have a unidirectional rotating aluminum bezel with a sapphire crystal and a screw-in crown. The quality indexing on the bezel and face, along with spaced Arabic numbers and markers make this watch easy to glance at and read quickly throughout the day.

The included date feature may not be a one of the most essential features of this watch, but it’s included as a useful reminder and situated at the 3 o’ clock mark. All these specifications combined make this a fine choice for those spending their day at sea or at the office.

Along with the 41mm stainless steel version, there are also smaller models available such as the 39mm watch designed for slimmer wrists and a 30mm Ladies design. The HydroConquest line even features a 25mm quartz version adding more variety to their collection.

The Downside to the Longines HydroConquest Watch

The Longines HydroConquest line of timepieces is a truly elegant collection. These Swiss watches are so well-made they are still talked about as if they are brand new products over a decade after their initial release. But as with any type of product, there are always some features that all customers aren’t going to agree on.

Overall there are very few complaints about this watch collection. But if you look around online you can find a mentions of negative aspects such as the wedges that provide protection to the watch crown. They do their job well, but are also quite sharp, which can be uncomfortable at times. Others have mentioned the solid case back which is a bit unusual for a mechanical watch.

But since the HydroConquest is also a diving watch, the solid back helps to further ensure the optimal amount of water resistance

About The Longines Brand

Longines is a Swiss luxury watchmaker brand that is based in Saint-Imier, Switzerland. The company was founded in 1832 and since 1983, it has been a subsidiary of another popular Swiss watch brand, Swatch Group.

The company was founded by a Swiss watchmaker Auguste Agassiz. Their first chronograph movement watch, the 20H, was developed in 1878 and featured all three chronograph functions, start, stop and reset. These functions were all accessible via the crown of the watch.

In 1931 Longines partnered with legendary aviator Charles Lindbergh to create an aviation watch known as the Longines Weems. They later followed up this timepiece with another aviation watch, the Longines Chronocinegines, in 1954.

Today the brand has developed strong relationship switch the sporting industry by creating timepieces ideal for those interested in archery, automobile racing, horse racing and tennis. The brand continues to be one of the most popular Swiss diving watch manufactures across the globe and still considered a wise investment for anyone willing to purchase one of these fine, luxurious watches.

Specifics for the Longines HydroConquest Sports Watch

Here are a few of the specifics for the HydroConquest Sports Watch Line.

Watch Case & Bracelet

Case & Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
Specifications: Screw-in Crown and Unidirectional rotating bezel.
Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
Screw-down case back
Water resistant up to 30 bar
Case Dimension: Ø 41.00 mm
Bracelet Buckle: Double-security folding clasp and integrated diving extension

Movement, Functions, & Dials

Caliber: L633 self-winding mechanical movement with 28’800 vibration per hours. 38 hours of power reserve in all.
Function: hours, minutes, seconds, and date
Arabic numerals and indexes for markers with Super-LumiNova®
Silver polished hands also with Super-LumiNova®

Why We Think You Should Consider Buying the Longines HydroConquest Watch

A Longines HydroConquest wristwatch is a smart buy for anyone who loves the beauty and craftmanship of a luxury divers watch, but also wants a timepiece they can wear anywhere at any time. It’s a luxury watch that works like your traditional sports watch. So, you never have to switch out timepieces when going from business to casual.

The HydroConquest line of watches features a high visibility display with a sapphire crystal glass. These watches include the brand’s Super-LumiNova® feature which illuminates the watch face so you can easily see the dial hands and display in dark settings.

The watches have a popular 41mm casing size with the brand’s L633 movement that is based off of ETA 2824. Each watch also includes a diver extension bracelet and has a 300m water resistance rating for peace of mind while diving.

Final Thoughts on the Longines HydroConquest Review

The HydroConquest line of watches by Longines features timepieces that are a remarkable masterpiece of today’s innovative watch manufacturing. The sweeping automatic movement works similar to a Rolex, which is a testament of the quality of the Longines brand. With that type of comparison, it is easy to see why so many watch enthusiasts are impressed by this line of wristwatches.

Overall, the quality of the HydroConquest diving watches remains to be some of the very best that you can buy, and that’s saying a lot considering these watches have been available for more than ten years. While highly advanced watch models have been developed by other brands in the past decade, the HydroConquest continues to stand its ground and remain a favorite with luxury watch enthusiasts.

If you are interested in investing in a high-quality Swiss timepiece, the Longines brand is a good place to start your search. You can be assured that you are buying a wristwatch that with withstand the test of time and technology. And considering that these watches are around a sixth of the price of a Rolex, a Longines HydroConquest is a smart choice for watch collectors on a budget.