13 Definitive Starter Watches For New Watch Enthusiasts

[@acp02091]

1. Don’t spend a fortune at first. 2. Get what you like, not what others say you should like. 3. Get your hands on a digital, a quartz and a mechanical/automatic watch and wear them in rotation. 4. Pay attention to the experience of each and think about what you like and don’t like about each 5. Study up on watches. 6. When you find a more expensive or quirky one you can’t stop thinking about, buy it. 7. Congratulations, you have something you love and can tell others why you love it, you area officially a collector

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Great advice. Also it is important to stress that you can avoid mistakes but they will happen regardless and your tastes will change so that point 1 about not spending a fortune at first is a good concept to follow.

[@IQof2]

8. Don’t use Affirm financing to “afford” watches you cannot afford.

[@wolfcommander6009]

9. Dont give advice or suggestions to people your not fond of

[@VajazzleMcDildertits]

I'm new. What exactly does "study up" entail? Are there popular/preferred resources for learning about watches?

[@acp02091]

@@VajazzleMcDildertits there are interesting books out there like “Fifty Watches That Changed the World” or “A Man and His Watch” Hodinkee is a magazine and website dedicated to watches. But ultimately to get the basics quickly You Tube is your friend. If memory serves Teddy Baldassare has some videos describing the different types of Watch and some of the history of the wrist watch. Wrist Watch Revival offers nice videos of servicing mechanical movements and Chronoglide offers a look at professional watchmaking right down to a description of the physics of how a watch keeps time. Watch finder and Co is one of the oldest going channels. If you are looking for entertainment value Nico Leonard and Pride and Pinion or The Time Teller offer outrageous takes on watches (if you can believe that), but the number of Watch Content Creators has exploded over the last few years. Explore! You’ll start to sort out what is legit and what is ignorant. Enjoy!

[@gabechristian2022]

Every comment I’ve seen is a paragraph, which really testifies as to how passionate this community is. Great video Teddy!

[@paulobarbosa1]

No joke, the thing I like the most when watching videos in this channel is the comment section, people really share great stories here, its fantastic. By the way, I have a Seiko 5 SRPD63B1, I'm always glad to see I've done a great choice to buy this as my first watch!

[@СэмФишер-х4д]

got seiko 5 several weeks ago. absolutely standard materials, but these watches like magic, they attract

[@markhuesges]

I love mine ❤️ good choice

[@11c00lj]

Started with a GShock I wore to my work since I'm an engineer and work in Manufacturing. After 5+ years on my wrist every day, I upgraded to a Kamasu for my first mechanical watch. The GShock was definitely my first and I think that the Kamasu would make a solid first choice too

[@sprocastersprocaster]

What color ?

[@Cohen.the.Worrier]

A 5600 or 2100 would be a very good start indeed.

[@BobaVett]

Bambino was my first “quality” watch after watching Teddy’s videos and learning how to get into this hobby. Just ordered another Orient, on the higher end, and a BEAUTIFUL Hamilton, that I wouldn’t have been able to afford back when I first started watching his channel given my job at the time did not afford me the ability to buy anything over maybe $150-$200. Now I can start looking at and purchasing pieces that I would have only been able to window shop back then. The feeling of wearing a more “expensive” watch and knowing I earned the ability to do so, is one hell of a feeling.

[@matteocavallin8775]

I think you’re right about Tissot being in most people’s watch journey’s. The Quartz Tissot Tradition Chronograph was my first watch that I really was obsessed with and got me into the world of watches. I got it as a high school graduation gift from my parents. Now I’m more into Japanese mechanical watches but Tissot started it all.

[@JulioRamosescritor]

My first watch was a Tissot PR 100 (that I bought as a real bargain), and, after that, I bought a Khaki. I'm now waiting for a blue dial Hamilton Jazzmaster

[@jomni]

I'm different. I've gone full circle. Started off with Fossil (lol) then moved up the chain with Seiko, Cartier, and so on until AP. Now I got my grail, I'm now looking into versatile items that don't hurt the wallet that much. Starter brands, microbrands, quartz, generic but robust movements. That's how I got into PRX. The Hamilton Khaki is hard to resist.

[@Avaddon911]

Longines and Bulova for me, Tissot designs aren't my cup of tea for some reason. But after a few years I actually prefer the Orient's and Seiko's over anything else I've aquired.

[@chris2MTL]

i buy a Tissot gentleman green dial, 2 weeks ago, i 'am looking at it more often than my girlfriend. it's so beautiful !

[@bafattvahetere]

My first watch (-56) was NOT a Tissot but a Eterna Matic Centenaire. Valuable today, so I sold it. Orient is SEIKO light and Bambino is a Eterna copy.

[@chriscon8463]

My advice to anyone just starting out: get something you can wear for any occasion, like a Seiko or Hamilton, & also get a G-Shock for tough jobs or outdoor activities. Wear these 2 watches while you save for your grail. Do your research & homework while you save, & buy your grail & be done with it!

[@wisamal-hakim5531]

Unless you love watches….

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Versatility is crucial. Find the equivalent of a versatile pair of shoes or a navy blazer. Think about cost per wear and understand your lifestyle.

[@chriscon8463]

@@wisamal-hakim5531 very true. I have no good advice to offer for the love of watches, or women!

[@wisamal-hakim5531]

@@chriscon8463 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣me neither

[@AlpineTrails]

I agree with Seiko and Hamilton, but saving up for your dream watch is not something I would do, unless you're talking about 2-3 months of savings. I absolutely love the Blancpain fifty fathoms. Saving up 10-15K it will take me a year+..I will always be worried that is going to get scratched or stolen or I don't know what. I would probably never enjoy wearing it being so stressed about it and will end up in a box. What's the point of it? I'd rather save a few months for a Black Bay. I'd probably still be upset if I scratch it but is not worth as much as a car.

[@rickyromano6659]

Just bought my son the Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic for his upcoming 18th birthday. He has some Casios and a decent 90's Seiko, but this will be his first Swiss Automatic. Rugged, feild ready watch, but with the smooth bezel, and leather strap it can be worn to the office or in more formal settings. Can't wait to give it to him.

[@alwayspooh1588]

Great choice with the Hamilton. He could also put it on a NATO and change it at will to suit his mood/weather.

[@rickyromano6659]

@Always Pooh thank you, and for sure. I was thinking the same thing. He will be able to put this on a variety of straps to suit different occasions while he is just getting started in his adult life and can't have a huge collection. I can't believe he is about to be 18 and graduating High Scool this year. I was young when he was born, but still, to have an adult child I have to be old lol

[@aravpanwar2431]

@@rickyromano6659 i got the same seiko teddy showed for my 18th birthday few months ago. watches are awesome.

[@rickyromano6659]

@Arav Panwar Thank you for sharing. Great to hear there are young people that appreciate watches. Congratulations and happy belated birthday! Such a cool and classy watch. The dials and finishing on those are amazing. Hope you get a ton of enjoyment from it.

[@alwayspooh1588]

@@rickyromano6659 As old as you feel! I have the same watch and it looks especially nice on a Breton NATO in summer. Happy birthday to him.

[@garethhanna9173]

Can't go wrong with the Orient Bambino. I have the small seconds and 38mm, both fantastic watches with the 38mm running at +1 seconds per day. The new Seiko Prospex Alpinist is also worth a look, a definite step up from the Presage and on par with the Tissot Gentleman.

[@c0rndog748]

I just purchased my first watch after watching a ton of videos from teddy, jenni and nico. I landed on a longines hydroconquest blue with the ceramic bezel with most of the credit going to teddy. Love it so much and wear it every day!

[@boudicajones6524]

Picked up a 38mm Bambino (champagne dial) as my first watch last month and I’m absolutely in love with it. Perfect size, looks elegant, very comfortable and only loses a few seconds per day. Now my only problem is holding off from buying more watches so quickly!

[@frasitopoquito4144]

get that silly notion out of you head... It's always time to buy new (or, preowned) watches.

[@Avaddon911]

That's a great choice for a first watch

[@crossbones8956]

Best advise I can give, is don’t buy a ton of watches up front. Regardless of price, I’d suggest you space out the purchases so you have time to spend with each watch. I’d suggest getting some straps for the Bambino, a good strap tool and maybe a watch box or roll. There’s plenty of watches and lots of time. Also, your tastes may and will probably change, and it’s a bummer when you have a ton of watches all from one period in your life. Cheers!

[@Avaddon911]

Good advice crossbones, I'd also recommend that you don't sell the Bambino, ever. You'll regret and find yourself looking to repurchase it, trust me. My first watch was a Seiko skx which I sold and I've been kicking myself ever since.

[@deivytrajan]

Changing time that often is so silly. How can people buy “expensive” watch which barely shows time correctly and you need to re-adjust it every few days

[@ronbendavidheiman9887]

My first watches were the orient Bambino and the orient ray 2. I bought them together 4.5 years ago, still wear them on a daily basis. Great watches highly reliable and the Bambino is really fun when put on different straps. Highly recommended!

[@fark69]

My first two watches were a Seiko Cocktail Time (from this list) and a San Martin Diver (their only original design diver SN0085). I think an office watch and a diver is a great way to go starting out

[@chriscon8463]

Awesome watches! Add a G-Shock as a beater & it’s a great collection that checks all boxes, for around $500!

[@Mububban23]

I love my Orient Ray 2 so much it's stopped me buying other watches! I've got a quartz beater and a solar quartz dress watch, after I got the Ray 2 anything else just felt like wasting money.

[@theroguedragon7943]

I recently got a Seiko 5 Sport as my first watch because of your videos and love it. I discovered your channel recently and just have been captivated by everything about watches. I always wanted to know more about watches, and your channel taught me a lot in the span of couple weeks. Love your channel, will definitely be keeping an eye for whenever you release any videos.

[@lukezmy]

Hi! I'm in search of my first decent everyday watch and I have a question for you, what about precision of seiko 5? I'm a quartz watch guy and all the words about -20 +20 seconds etc make me uncomfortable. I know in the reality there are more accurate than that but never had o real answer. Ty my man

[@markharrison2484]

@@lukezmy Ive never put my SNK809 on a time grapher but it seems to run a touch slow by maybe a couple of minutes a month. Certainly nothing to worry about. I hardly ever correct it.

[@theroguedragon7943]

@@lukezmy for the small time I've had it, it's really not as noticeable as you'd think. I got a SRPH65 because I loved the colorway and dial. From I noticed it's off by maybe only 3-4 seconds a day if that.

[@gotdatazz123]

I just recently got into watches and bought my 1st 2 watches. I ended up going with the 40mm timex Waterbury and the 35mm tissot prx. You’ve gotten me hooked on watches and I’m in love. Thank you so much for spending your time and effort on making these videos and introducing new buyers like myself into the industry. Also thank you for being honest and not just trying to sell us a brand. You’re literally my new favorite channel❤️

[@TheDylls]

My wife thought that the dial was mid... I couldn't disagree more!❤

[@TravisHi_YT]

He missed citizen for some reason, so he's not entirely unbiased.

[@gabechristian2022]

The watch that got me into watches was a blue Mini Focus quartz chronograph I got off Amazon. My dad had one and I liked it so I bought one for $30. Wearing a watch I thoroughly enjoyed for the first time sent me down the watch rabbit hole. I haven’t collected in a few years, but have recently got back into it with a Heimdallr SKX clone that my dad gave me. I bought my first watch in a few years a few weeks back; a Pagani Design PD1654. Budget watches are my favorite as there are some that are a great value for money, and having a kid now makes it hard to spend 2-300 per watch like I used to.

[@funnyspence4252]

I started with the Hamilton Field Khaki and couldn’t be happier

[@andrew45038]

Same here my mine is the brown PVD case with the olive band no regrets forgot to mention it’s my first mechanical piece to

[@eastcoastwatchconnection7949]

I found an old L.L. Bean khaki field quartz at a thrift shop in Maine for $5. It’s one of my favorite watches (and cheapest) but offers so much enjoyment 😁

[@chicagotypewriter2094]

Wow! Similar to you, I found this old mechanical HMT on eBay for $5! The dials really simple but was this beautiful blue-grey colour that changed depending on the light! Strap buckle sucked but I cannibalized one from a broken strap. Love it so much!

[@brucecobb9640]

I am wearing a LLBean quartz field watch as I type this. Don't know for sure who made it... maybe M B Microtech. Anyone know?

[@motohand990]

I started my watch collection in July. I bought two watches, a PRX Powermatic 80 and a Casio A-158W. These literally are the only watches I wear and I love it!

[@duvalpenny100]

The watch that got me into collecting was the Timex Expedition Chronograph. All throughout high school and even college, every time I saw a "fancy" watch with subdials, I was disappointed to find out that the subdial hands were literally just glued on the dial, nonfunctional, and were 100% cosmetic. Once I saw the Timex Expedition Chronograph in Target one day and I just had to have it. I didn't plan on spending a whole $80 on a watch that day (at this time I thought it was expensive for a watch), but I just couldn't put it down. I thought it was incredible that all 3 subdials on it were actually functional. Next thing you know I'm timing how long it takes me to take out the trash and put my shoes on.

[@paulc9588]

Some fine options here. The Seiko 5KX is an unbeatable choice really and I still cannot believe how well it wears on a skinny wrist. Like many here I started with Seiko and Tissot and still keep returning to these brands 30 years on. Surprised that not one Citizen Eco-Drive made the list though. Not comparable with Seiko and Tissot maybe but some of the dressy models like the Stiletto are very decent and the Eco-Drive system works extremely well. Room for at least one in every collection I think.

[@rockslide4802]

Citizen makes excellent watches. They are rugged and reliable, a great value and if an EcoDrive, never need a battery. Love mine. They make excellent divers.

[@ricardorgomez]

My first watch I received was a mechanical Timex my parents gave me as a birthday gift. It was super simple and absolutely loved it. I've always wondered how Timex was thought about it as they tend to be very low-cost. Glad you recommended them for their intended use. Due to you, my first watch in the new chapter of my life will be the Seiko Presage. It's a lovely watch with quality.

[@tramenari]

My three watch collection under $1000: -Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical (white dial) -Seiko SKX009J on a Jubilee -Casio F105W-1A (Basically an F-91W but better) I have a hand wind mechanical field watch, automatic dive watch, and a quartz chronometer.

[@ufrl0158]

needs more chronograph

[@ufrl0158]

here is mine seiko flightmaster seiko blueberry seiko alpinist

[@waffle911]

@@ufrl0158 Which one is the Seiko Blueberry?

[@delonteeast7955]

@@waffle911 the SSK003

[@Jitt3r]

What’s the difference between the f105w and f91 lol

[@younusimam-thesalamproject6340]

I will never get tired of you mentioning the Orient Bambino. Im wearing one now! Bought the Gen 2 despite having a lot of other options, its amazing.

[@TeddyBaldasarre]

👆👆𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒎☑️🎁

[@Strider1Wilco]

My first watch was gifted to me by a family member. It's a Citizen Brycen Eco-Drive. The blue on it is beautiful. It's better looking to me than any other watch. And it's sentimental.

[@theafricanjumbee1197]

I knew nothing about watches, as a matter of fact I didn't own any watch as a fifty year old man. I came across your channel and I got hooked. I recently purchased my first DW5600. I have my sight set on a vostok amphibian next. Then Invicta pro dive 89260b

[@frankfranklin3365]

I had a pro diver but my ex wife stole it and traded it for a jug of illegally made liquor from a retarded guy at a gas station. Life ain’t fair one bit sometimes.

[@sekkusupisutoruzu]

Please look further than the Invicta Pro Dive. Thank you.

[@krunokirhenmajer1652]

I started my collection with Swatch quartz watches not really knowing anything about the watch world. Then when I went to visit Switzerland I found an automatic watch on the ground from the micro brand called Zeno produced in Basel. The watch was a pilot chronograph and from there my journey of collecting Swiss watches started to increase. Now Im tempted to try out the Japanese brands and Im aiming for the Seiko Alpinist line. I hope that my love for watches doesn’t make me go bankrupt :D Great video as always!

[@simonlancaster1815]

Yes, a similar story for me. I went to Basel and bought a Pilot for 100 euros from that small Zeno shop! Great service and a smart case for my watch. I bought a more expensive Tissot later in my trip and didn't get such a nice case.. My Tissot Swissmatic V8 is great, though.

[@Sakomaru707]

My first watch that I bought for myself was a Seiko SNK381K1. I fell in love with mechanical watches, but hated that specific movement. No hand winding was a dealbreaker as sometimes after not wearing it the watch would even stop while I had it on my wrist working some desk jobs. Nevertheless, it convinced me to commit with a bit bigger budget and get a Christopher Ward which I have really no complaints about. And this watch showed me how great bracelets can be (unlike Seiko 5 ;P). Great video, thanks Teddy

[@derekwalter4238]

For me, my journey started with a g shock square and a seiko skx. A few years later I got into the Swiss market and picked up a Hamilton khaki field mechanical and a Tissot Gentlemen powermatic 80. I've also picked up a seiko turtle, a couple seiko sarbs and an embarrassing amount of g shocks since then lol. I'm now saving up for a grail watch, the black bay 58, and considering a few other brands like Oris and Nomos now as well (I've just been obsessed with that club campus dial lately).

[@johns6816]

I think a Casio Duro is a great starter. 1. Very affordable. 2. You can play with straps. (I like NATOs with the 3rd piece cut off) I no longer look at watches that I cannot change straps on. 3. Makes a good test watch for how big you want to go. Its 92 grams or a 1/5th of a pound so its heavy, and at 12mm, fairly thick too. The 44mm dial is plenty big on most wrists. If you wear this a few months and tire of pulling your shirt sleeves back over it, maybe you don't want another watch that thick or big? 4. The rotating bezel is super handy and the watch is easy to read at a glance in near any light.

[@azdbuk]

As a kid: Swatches in the 80's. As college aged: Seiko Chrono from Price Club. As adult Seiko Chrono from Sam's club. Then dormant for 20 years or so, then the dive style got me going again. To my nephews and friends kid's I gift out Duro's and Citizen eco drives. For me personally, I am a huge fan of Citizen and sort of cycle through different eco drives/pro masters, even for swiss made I have entry level priced Alpina and Fortis (used fortis). I am a big fan of Islander from Marc at Islander watch for sort of upgraded sekio ish dive watches. Of the dozen or so daily wearers, probably half of those are Citizens. I have about 50/50 of quartz to mechanical autos. Plus two 20 year old Gshocks still going strong. If I had to recommend to a new enthusiast, I would say, go for a 3 watch collection, one at a time. Something like: Bambino/dress, black Cit promaster diver (travel and sports), and maybe an Alpinist as the sort of grail of the new collection. If I had to 10 seconds and had to grab one watch to be on the go for a while, my black Citizen promaster, black gets no attention, it is sun charged, easy to set time, water proof, metal bracelet.....If I had to pick a watch right now and spend a few grand on, it would be an ice blue, Ball Engineer 3. Honorable mention: Doxa and Squale.

[@uknowho1756]

I started with a Seiko Piston i've now go about 7 different Seiko's next 3 as we speak. I think 'bang for buck' Seiko Automatics are the best to buy to get into collecting as there's something for everyone and you can even get custom mods for them if you get that deep into it.

[@Tammacazi10]

It was a Fossil Chronograph that got me started with watches. I'm so happy I bought that back in High school!

[@Dragonfly35RacingTeam]

Mine was the Seiko SRPD51K. Got it as a representation of achievement. Finished my first summer job as a manager of a flight training program at 19 years old. I got a deal on it but it is something very special to me. I’ve since gotten a couple more. But it’s such a good first piece. Cannot recommend enough!

[@f1hotrod527]

Of my watches, I think the dressKX and the Seiko land tortoise models are the best beginner watches. They are both just so handsome. I struggle to find much more expensive watches that have as good looking design. It is interesting that both come from dive watch designs but are not dive watches. It’s like they take the cool elements of dive watches and sleek them down to transcend categories . I do agree, Hamilton khaki field watches are just the best looking watches of that style.😅

[@ufrl0158]

I much prefer the Seiko Raspberry and BabyElephant (I make up my own names for my seikos)

[@kevincardenas5873]

You have a way of speaking and some spark in your eyes that make me want to become a watch expert for life.

[@NinjaNick636]

I finally got sick of my Apple Watch and upgraded to a blue dial Tissot Gentleman. Love it and can already tell I’ll be needing to get a watch box

[@CybertroninfiniteOfficial]

Good thing watch boxes are super cheap

[@briankenny6883]

What a great watch. For my money,…there are four powerhouse watches

[@markymarknj]

Teddy, the watches that got me started in this were the Citizen Navihawk, Nighthawk, and Skyhawk flight computer watches; they have an E6B flight computer built in to the bezel. Granted, they have quartz movements, but they're cool watches that have solar power. Depending on the band, they can cross categories; that is to say that they can be casual or dress watches. I think that, while all the watches on this list are excellent choices, I think that some of them can cross categories. For example, the Tissot PRX is not only a good casual watch; I think it has enough style to double as a dress watch. It has that classy, yet understated look that would make it a natural to wear to the office too.

[@TravisHi_YT]

Same, a ctizen was my first "proper" watch. Not sure why he skipped on them, definitely a great entry level brand

[@markymarknj]

@@TravisHi_YTCitizen isn't just a great entry level brand; they're a GREAT brand, period! They've had a lot of firsts in the horological world: first quartz movement, first with solar power, etc. They had that one automatic dive watch that was lost in the ocean for years; when it was recovered, it was till WORKING! Though it had barnacles on it after seven years in the ocean, the SOB was still going.

[@dannyg6592]

I highly recommend Casio as a first watch. I own over a dozen Casios and G Shocks and love them all. I wore my A168 to my Rolex AD last month to pick up my 124270 Explorer, and the AD noticed my Casio and told me she loved it :) It is a watch that is universally loved and it cost $20. For a first G Shock, go for the original square - the DW5600. Indestructible and $40. There is no better bang for the buck than Casio.

[@Gynchy]

First watch ever for me was a Casio G-Shock that I still have, works, and swapped the battery only once in 15+ years of owning it. My first real mechanical watch was a Seiko 5 SNKL23, which is what got me really into watches, I paired it with a different band and still love it.

[@nickd.3868]

I've always liked watches, but thanks to you and your channel, I am now passionate about mechanical watches. I just bought my first mechanical watch 3 weeks ago, a Tissot Powermatic 80 Silicium. Great video one again, keep it up!

[@ufrl0158]

simple mechanical watches are great but once you get into real complications it gets pricey and they become delicate and expensive to service. I feel quartz definitely has a place in tool watches and mechanical movements in casual and dress watches. the new seiko gmt is about as complex of a mechanical movement I would invest in.

[@vaclav_fejt]

What got me into watches: My second watch ever - a quartz steel Bentime, which I lost - and my second watch, a quartz titanium Boccia, which I got as an replacement. And my third watch, a green Timex Weekender Chronograph, which I fell in love with while looking for said replacement.

[@butre.]

my first mechanical watch was an SNK 807 I bought in 2010 or so, but it really didn't kick off my mechanical watch obsession. I think what really did it for me was getting into vintage watches.

[@vic7939]

Went for a green teal Kamasu for my 1st. Contemplating for a Hamilton Khaki field 38 or Tissot PRX next year. Junghans Max Bill definitely later on.

[@jasonbrocious3805]

You have great taste.

[@JamesL88]

My first was the Tissot Gentleman powermatic 80 blue dial. Love this watch, planning on eventually adding the Hamilton khaki field auto and possibly the PRX as well.

[@LombardoJoe]

My first “real” watch was a blue PRX Powermatic 80. Keeps excellent time and looks amazing imo. Got it with the bracelet and then copped the blue strap for $55. Amazingly simple but beautiful watch.

[@zomgz932]

not my "first watch" but my first swiss. green dial braclet gentlman Pm80... wearing it rn, first watch was my OG seiko black monster.

[@TomPlantagenet]

I’m looking at the Gentleman myself in blue. It seems like a modern classic that can be worn almost anywhere.

[@zomgz932]

@@TomPlantagenet get the bracelet version, that way you will always have the bracelet but be able to swap to straps when you want to change it.

[@TomPlantagenet]

@@zomgz932 thanks-I intend to. I also will , Lord willing, order a leather strap and swap back and forth. It looks so good on both. Thank you again!

[@larryfishkind5387]

The Tissot prx is so impressive at the price point. I’d say with complete confidence it’s the best Swiss watch you can get for under $600 maybe - $1000 The quality will surprise you it is just as good quality as watches that are in the $3000 range I am not saying this without experience.

[@ghouleggy5634]

My watch journey: I started with G-shock on all my elementary to highschool years, then Swatch on my college, explored Casio AI68, Daniel Wellington on the first few years of my job, then I got Seiko SNK when I my daughter was born, and now I got myself a Seiko SPB143 to put a stamp on my promotion.

[@goldenrakelawncare6564]

Basically the same but I've circled back to G-Shock...

[@Equinox121]

I wore a smart watch for a long time and liked the look but decided I wanted a real watch. I picked up my first watch yesterday. It’s a Bulova Marine Star and I got it for a great price. Gorgeous watch

[@sekkusupisutoruzu]

How's it been holding up? What model of Marinestar did you get?

[@drewsleyy3836]

Not new anymore but I got my start with Teddy and his advice is spot on!! Awesome video as always

[@RCruz]

Picked up a Tissot PRX Powermatic 80. Absolutely love it. It’s no nonsense, it’s clean, it’s beautiful, functional and well built. The band is a little flimsy, but it shines under so many different lightings and is totally understated. Looking forward to getting a lot of mileage out of it for years to come

[@BrendanZamora-b4x]

I just got a seiko cocktail time for the office as my first watch. Needless to say I absolutely love it and has gotten me completely hooked on watches.

[@RussellFlynn]

Been thinking about starting a watch collection for a long time. Currently been wearing my Fossil Neutra Chronograph and have 3 Gshocks(Ga100BNR, GM6900SG). Now after seeing this video, decided to go with the 2 Casio vintage pieces. 😂 the Orient is definitely next!!

[@LAM_AUT_ECU]

I'm 56, so my journey started with other types of timepieces. My first watch was a SIlvana, hand-wound like most watches back in the early 70s, I was gifted it when I was 6 or 7 and still have it though it hasn't worked for some 40 years. The first watch I bought was at the same time the most expensive thing I bought before buying my first car at age 17, a Rotary Day-Date Quartz. It cost me the current equivalent of $ 500 after switching the leather strap for a very well-built metal one. The seconds hand jumping every second was just mesmerizing. It was my first watch with a hard glass-like crystal, probably sapphire and it had if I'm not mistaken, 100m water resistance. It was also my first watch with complications, a true monster for 1980 or 1981, with better specs than my dad's gold Omega Constellation. Unfortunately, it was stolen some 10 years later. The first watch I bought as an enthusiast is a Longines Conquest, mechanical (just called that before they added the word "heritage" to the name around 2010), bought in 1999.

[@Gumby56]

While I started with the Rolex submariner with the Cyclops(now gone), my latest watch from you and my 25th in the collection is the Orient Symphony lllV with the deep blue dial. Yep, I did things a bit backwards but it's still been a great journey and I watch all your videos and read all your written content. Thank you Teddy for the education.

[@artidox__]

Timex Expedition Scout 40 was what really started my watch collecting journey. That, and this channel. :) Been exactly 1 year and 1 week since the journey started. 10/23/21.

[@andygt888]

Casio A168 was my first purchase a few months ago that has now got me invested in the world of watches, love everything about it, glad to see it on this list! Love the look of the Seiko Cocktail & Japanese Garden models, will be getting one each of these next. The Bambino is pretty cool too! Thanks for the video it was very helpful

[@miata1370]

First watch I purchased..many years ago was a Swiss Army ..still have it but it's "dead" in my dresser...likely needs a new battery. Given I wear my watches with the dial on the inside of my wrist, (verses on top of my wrist) learned future watches should not be black PVD coated (it wears off in my use case and shows the case base metal) and I must have a sapphire crystal to eliminate/minimize scratches. Now wear a 21 year old Tissot PR 50 Titanium Bracelet. So wearable and light and the crystal looks new. I appreciate the trouble free quartz movement but may explore a mechanical in the future. Great info here on your channel Teddy. Thank you.

[@sylinmino]

I'm so mixed on the Orient Bambino. On one hand, it was MY gateway watch, the first automatic I wanted. On the other hand, it was the fastest I've stopped wearing a watch when I was getting into them. I really fell down the rabbit hole with the Seiko Presage and SRPE DressKX and Casio G Shock.

[@Dave0G]

The best advice this and other channels have given is to buy what you like, not what others like. I can't imagine not loving my first Bambino but I'm glad you found your own place to truly enjoy collecting.

[@مهندعوض-غ5ت]

Thanks teddy , I bought 2 watches recently during past year , Tissot PRX 80 automatic ( Ice blue) $590 and Seiko Prospex Alpinist ( green with Brown Leather Strap $730, I am really enjoying the two watches 😊

[@pauladams9313]

Do my plastic Swatches I bought in high school count? Lol. Thanks for another good video

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Absolutely!

[@MrDDDD334]

@@TeddyBaldassarre hey, why you delete video aboute Vostok Amfibian?

[@Dagardmusic]

Great comment:)

[@garynico9872]

@@MrDDDD334 russia.

[@CommonsenseMK]

I just picked up a Swatch from 1988 while I was in Norway. It is now part of my collection of 27 watches.

[@joshclancy8440]

Over the last amount of years, ive tried many automatic/ mechanical watches- a seiko 5, a sieko king turtle PADI, two tissos one of them chronograph, an orient and even a Bernie! So far i like characteristics of all of them. However, i have big wrists and the Seiko king turtle PADI maxed out from factory fits well. The tissos also fit out of the box in the last strap hole. Down side of the two tissos i have- i reached out to tisso, unfortunately they told me they dont have bigger straps, however, the fit ok in the last hole , but the end of the strap tends to pull out on the retention band. Seiko 5- i had to change out bracelet to strap ( i realize i could've added links), the orient the same. Just fyi everyone! Thank Teddy your the man!!

[@michaelp77319]

I really liked the list. I would have liked to see the Orient Kamasu on there as it has become a greater starter Watch for a lot of people. And I think the Brew Metric Retro would have been a good fit as well for the “hipster” category.

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

I just felt mentioning micros is a dangerous game when talking about this subject. The brand equity and resale value is important considering how many end up growing apart from their first watches as they are trying to develop their taste.

[@MrDDDD334]

@@TeddyBaldassarre hey, why you delete video aboute Vostok Amfibian?

[@Maurita-r2d]

Picked up a amzwatch's watch as my first watch last month and I’m absolutely in love with it. Perfect size, looks elegant, very comfortable. Now my only problem is holding off from buying more watches so quickly!

[@jomni]

One thing about the G-Shock is that the rubber and plastic just got brittle and disintegrated after years of use. It's quite a common occurrence for plastic items here in the tropics. So now I'm using the steel version of the G-Shock (G-Steel series).

[@willscubingchannel3062]

Had mine for 15 years, original strap still in good condition

[@rigovega7115]

Yeah I used my g shock for countless hours swimming and gun range. It’s cracked. I still have it and might just change the case.

[@HiroshimaXl]

I had to go with the lunar pilot for my first watch ! Quartz movement but such an amazing piece with great value.

[@koschei7687]

For me the watch that started it was a Junghans quartz watch, which i still love, but my forst mechanical watch was a Raketa "Perpetual" Calendar and I also love it, because it is such a strange and quirky watch. Also I got it for a pretty decent price

[@BrandonPrive1432]

i really want a Junghans Max Bill, but im just not there finacially yet, i've got a few 300-400 dollar watches, but jumping up to 800 or 1200 is alot of money to spend, but maybe one day soon! such a classic looking piece!

[@vikas8714]

Seiko Presage Zen Garden is my first automatic watch, the Zen Garden model in presage line may or may not be talked about by many people but I absolutely love it ❤

[@aslamc9288]

When I first really got into watches, I went into a deep dive on micro divers. Then I looked at my collection and realized that if I got rid of all the $500 watches I don’t wear often, I could turn them into a Black Bay. So that’s what I did. Now I have a small collection of very nice watches, if I do say so myself. So my one piece of advice is to take it slow. Read, research, watch reviews, etc. Yes, it’ll take trial and error to find what you really want to wear long term, but that’s okay. Just don’t feel the need to build a “collection” right away. You can only wear one at a time, right?

[@stevebrannan4966]

That is such sound advice, and absolutely true.

[@loganpergola]

Little late to the party on this video being a year old, but I just bought myself a Seiko Presage SRPE43 for my 21st birthday. Going into business (Economics) once Im out of college I wanted something nicer and with a 6-6.5cm wrist, I knew I needed something smaller for it to not look oversized. The 38.5mm case looks incredible and the color is to die for. So excited and have been wearing it daily no matter where I go just because I love it. Can not recommend them more to someone who needs something more formal and has a small wrist.

[@gillkill32]

In boot camp we were able to go to the store and buy stuff our 1st week i think.. the casio wg style watch was sold at the shoppette.. plain black, rubber strap, cheap at $sub 10.. that thing lasted through all sorts of hell. Dirt, rain, sweat, heat, concrete and more.. casio never dissapoints.

[@raindelay7433]

LOL I remenber that.. and no one knew how to set them so they would always been at random hours of the morning ha

[@drfranke]

Teddy, you have been spot-on with your videos lately. Thank you for your hard work.

[@ianmedium]

On thing for you younger enthusiasts, the Swiss industry love to call it the “quartz crisis” to keep creating the myth mechanical nearly died and how that would have been terrible. For those of us who were enthusiasts at the time it was actually regarded the “Quartz revolution “ which really is a far more accurate description! You have to remember back then watches were the primary source of telling the time, if you wanted absolute accuracy you had to telephone the speaking clock! So accuracy and reliability was all so when quartz came around everyone and I mean everyone wanted quartz and were excited to get to wear something so accurate you did not have to make a phone call any more, it was truly incredible and truly exciting. By that time the Swiss watch industry frankly had become pretty arrogant and with arrogance comes complacency, Most watches were frankly crap. Very average quality in timekeeping and build quality, I’m talking normal average peoples watches, not the high end though look at Zeniths and their Ilk and they were no where near the quality is now! So for the first time the complacent Swiss got a massive wake up call. You can thank the quartz revolution for the far better quality every day mechanical movements we have now likewise case and dial qualities, quartz got rid companies that frankly did not deserve to survive! If it were not for the quartz revolution you would not have the quality we have now and in that I do include the high end and yes, that includes the likes of Patek. Just go to a watch show and compare a fifties/sixties Patek/ Rolex/Omega from that time with their modern equivalents, remove the rose tinted specs and you will see what I mean! That’s down to the Quartz revolution, we have a great deal to be thankful for it, instead of looking down upon it we should celebrate them!

[@TruthFLA]

G shock on this channel is like killing Kenny on SouthPark. You know it's going to happen At some point in each episode. 😂

[@maximilianmaier3950]

I started my collection with a Seiko Cocktail time and added a Citizen Tsuyosa with the yellow dial shortly after. As someone who is also very much into fashion, I found a way to build my collection that works really well for me. Phase 1: The first watch With the Cocktail time I got a watch that was very affordable for me, but also not so cheap that it was just something I bought without even thinking about it. Technically I could buy that watch from my free budget every months but it did take up almost my entire free budget for that months. With free budget I mean the money I have left over after cost of living, savings and regular investments and regular hobbies, pretty much all expenses that occur regularly either as necessity or recreation. I think it was the perfect price range for my perfect watch, because if I realised that I'm not into watches after all, I would not have burnt that much money for it, but it's not something i spent so little on that I run the risk of not really appreciating it. I mean, there are a lot of other nice things I could have gotten for 420€, but I made the conscious decision to spend it on a watch Phase 2: Building a cheap collection Here's where my love for fashion comes into play. I really enjoy having versatility in my collection and combining different styles and colors of watches with different outfits, so for now, I'd rather buy multiple cheap watches that cover additional bases in my collection than saving up for months to get a more expensive one. It keeps me invested in the hobby and brings me joy not only when I get to add a watch, but every day in the morning when I get dressed and get to try on different watches to see which one matches the best with my current outfit. Brands like Orient, Citizen, Timex or some cheap Seikos are currently on my radar for this phase. The main goal is not to have the most luxurious collection, but to get as much versatility as possible without breaking the bank. Phase 3: Adding quality to the collection Once I have a collection of very affordable watches that makes me feel like I covered all the bases in terms of styles and colors and have the right watch for every single Outfit in my wardrobe, I want to gradually improve my collection with a bit more expensive watches. Brands like Longines, Tissot, Tudor, just to name a few are examples of brands that would fit into this phase in terms of their prices. Thanks to Phase 2 I will already know which styles I wore the most and piece by piece I will improve my collection with more quality watches. Phase 4: The dream watches At the end of phase 3 I will have a very respectable collection where the pieces I already own will provide enough fun for me that I won't need add a new watch that often to keep me invested in the hobby, so now is the time to really save up the money to get the watches I really dream about. It will be ok if I have to save up multiple years to get a single watch. Two things about this way of collecting: - It works for me personally, because I value versatitly in styles and colors more than prestige and luxury of individual pieces and I get a lot of joy from it. If you are more about luxury and status, you might want to start saving up for luxury watches right away and not "waste" money on watches that don't really fit your desire for luxury watches. - The phases are strictly separated. For example if I'm still mostly in Phase 1, but I do receive a sudden influx of money like inheritance or a decent bonus, I might purchase one of my dream watches right away or I might be mostly in Phase 4 and saving up for an expensive watch, but I come across a cheper one that I really like, I might still pick it up.

[@louispacetime1576]

Honest question, why are watch colectors obsessed with how much water resistance it has? like for a normal human being why would you go beyond 5 meters?

[@bpetey5970]

I’m newer to watches and I can’t speak for everyone. Here’s how I understand it. I care a lot about water resistance because if a watch has good water resistance it is more likely to withstand activities like swimming for extended periods of time, and perhaps even hot water. Because you’re right most people aren’t diving to 100m depth with their watches. But if a watch only has 5m of water resistance it can be undone by swimming in a pool for an hour. At least I have owned Amazon cheap watches that say they have 5-10m water resistance that have become water logged from swimming because they can withstand being submerged statically in 5m of water, they can’t handle the fast movement of swimming in water. So the better the water resistance the more likely the watch will resist any water you subject it to. Peace of mind.

[@anamikadiaries]

I am in medical profession and I wash my hands very frequently. So having a water resistance is important to me

[@snowthearcticfox1]

That's under static lab conditions, any quick movement under water (like swimming) can overpower 5 bar pretty easily.

[@TheSH1N1GAM1]

100M or more water resistance means you never need to worry about daily activity or swimming. I would never swim with a watch only rated to 5-10M, to me that’s rain and splash proof only. Over time, seals degrade. If you swim too vigorously or anything with the watch is slightly off and it’s only a 5-10M rating water could get in the case. I have taken my 200-300M divers into the ocean and I don’t worry about the salt water as long as I thoroughly rinse the watch after. Good question! I don’t think many people are properly informed about depth ratings.

[@Lochlanist]

For the same reason you want a mechanical, Less accurate and costs more than a quartz (legit everything in another product you would be like why) but it's cool af

[@braddo85]

Teddy, one of the most interesting starter brands out there to me is Shinola. They seem to be overlooked - some people love the brand, but they don’t seem to get a lot of attention in the watch enthusiast world. Why is this? Would love to hear your thoughts in a future video on the Shinola brand, quality of their products, and where you see them heading. Big fan of all your videos.

[@zgSH4DOW]

Kudos for the Vostok inclusion--although I think the Komandirskie is a lot more palletable, despite the downtier and lower capability

[@tpoz48]

My first non-dress watch was a Timex Expedition. It was around $30.00 and served me well until it ended up at the bottom of a lake. It was replaced by another Expedition. The price had gone up to about $50.00 by then. I wore it in the field hunting and on the water fishing. It is a rugged watch and the case and dial fit the outdoor lifestyle. It has since been replaced by an upgrade (?), but I still wear it occasionally when outdoors. Lol! I may go back to wearing it more often unless I decided to get a Hamilton Khaki. 🤔

[@old-red]

Timex Expeditions are great watches that last a long time. Timex has its place as a good watch maker, and the expedition with indiglo makes wearing a watch easy and functional. The Hamilton is obvious graduate of the Expedition.

[@tim462]

What are your thoughts on the Sinn 105? :)

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Fantastic watch! Need to do a full review in the future.

[@MrDDDD334]

@@TeddyBaldassarre hey, why you delete video aboute Vostok Amfibian?

[@ufrl0158]

Sinn is like one of those watch brands only watch nerds know about so when we see one we HAVE to say something

[@abood0wnz]

The Seiko 5 is my first watch which I got at the beginning of the year. An amazing watch that has everything you need and it looks amazing. And most importantly affordable

[@subhradipsaha9518]

I think I will be demolished for this. But I love my Apple watch 7. I like collecting watch straps, if that is a thing. :))

[@sekkusupisutoruzu]

It's not a thing, and that's not even a watch, so no worries, nobody in the watch community has any problem with you. It's only sad when we think what great watches that will last you a lifetime, you can buy for the price of a cheaply made and short lifetime Apple "watch".

[@RagingOatmeal]

I bought my first Seiko (srpd) off of your videos. Then I got a Marathon Gpq, then a Vostok amfibia. Your ability to respect all levels of watches is fantastic.

[@TheMusicalKnokcers]

No problem with vostok ?

[@RagingOatmeal]

@@TheMusicalKnokcers ahhhhhh. So I bought a vintage one off ebay and its fine. Got it regulated and put a new band on and love it. I wear it when Im doing things I would typically wear my gshock for, work (boiler maker), shooting trap etc. The new amfibia i am still waiting on shipping to russia. Im in canada so I should expect it in a month.

[@moldovancsaba]

What do you think about vintage watches as a starter? 💁

[@NickABQQm]

I would say no, it's not hard to taking care of but not suited for everyday use. I bought 1960s Seamaster few months ago even the seller did reassemble himself he still tell me don't risk washing dish with it. My watch come with acrylic crystal, came clean when I received but within 2 weeks hairline scratches came.

[@jpdemer5]

Great to collect, but as daily wearers they can be expensive to maintain. You have to be aware of what's inside, and how rare it is.

[@horridlego8430]

Hamilton Khaki King was my first proper watch but within 1 month I got a SKX009 as well. Those 2 watches cover me for almost all scenarios.

[@tested123]

holy shit i can see how a watch addiction could financially ruin you

[@brevanmcclellan6235]

Not even an addiction necessarily… just one watch could do it 😅

[@mattswain552]

Over the years I've acquired - and still love and own - a Casio G-Shock, Seiko Black Monster and Seiko Cocktail time. Very happy watching this vid!

[@TeddyBaldasarre]

👆👆𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒎☑️☑️🎁

[@ngrgdrpr]

I couldn't buy a vostok in 2022, or while Putin is in charge. Just seems... Wrong

[@pmtesta7631]

wtf they aren't invading ukrainke because of vostok

[@perfecthairguy]

That's the stupidest shit I've heard in my life. I'm not even gonna try and be polite that's completely retarded.

[@FallujahMarine0311]

I mean, would you have bought a VW in 1943?

[@ngrgdrpr]

@@pmtesta7631 there are two vostoks. One European and the other Russian. The Russian one would be state owned...

[@ngrgdrpr]

@@FallujahMarine0311 not likely.

[@DandyHiggins]

Should I get a formal watch? My job doesn't require me to dress up and the only time I do dress up is on holidays and the few formal events I go to.

[@YeCannyDaeThat]

Vostok really cant be promoted right now what with Russia is doing. Shouldn't be supporting that economy.

[@jacobambach8143]

Vostok watches aren't the Russian government though.

[@YeCannyDaeThat]

@@jacobambach8143 you know how an internal economy works though? It's still money directly into the russian economy which through trickle down will pay for drones bombing Kyiv.

[@MrDDDD334]

@@YeCannyDaeThat ahahaha :-D The Vosok does not need foreign markets . We will provide our own orders to the factory. I have a lot of Vostoks. And I'm not alone :-D Vostok must live!

[@MrDDDD334]

@@YeCannyDaeThat and you don't wash anymore so that Putin has problems? :-D

[@Contredanse]

First watch was a Timex Weekender Chronograph. First auto was a bambino. First sports watch was a G Shock with solar. I've since moved on from the bambino because it was too big at the time. But with the new 38mm range... I'm tempted. If there's one with rose gold markers, I'm going for it!

[@ic3076]

I'm looking into three watches: -Tissot PRX -Seiko SPB123 'Alpanist' -Hamilton Jazzmaster Open Heart Auto

[@tonyphillips8726]

I have three of the watches on this list. Back in 2018, your videos were the ones that helped me figure out my tastes and where to begin. You stopped me before I ever bought a MVMT or a 5TH brand watch.

[@nada4328]

As my first watch, my parents bought me the Tissot Classic Dream that came out in 2019. After owning the watch for about 2.5 years now I couldn't agree more that Tissot is an excellent brand for people starting a watch collection and they have so many great products to offer from the Classic Dream to the PRX. There is simply something for everyone regardless of your style preferences.

[@madmat3940]

Just started collecting and truly appreciate your videos. Just picked up a Seiko 5 as well as a Tissot PRX Powermatic. Now looking to add a Hamilton Field. Good to know they are all Teddy-approved!

[@amenhotep7704]

and as for Orient, they're one of my favorite brands out there, they're providing high quality crystals and materials and deliver you an incredible price for these time pieces, i find it really difficult to choose between the swiss and japenese as they're excellent.

[@dereksanders8152]

Just ordered the Vostok from Amazon because you did such a good job showing this watch. Thanks Teddy.

[@Koksta1972]

My first watch, many aeons ago, was a Breil. It had a leather strap, that broke constantly and had replaced numerous times. Still have it, say it with that broken strap. After that I bought a Tissot Couturier, in white. Ab-so-lu-te-ly love it, though a bit on the large size. So I wanted something a little more sophisticated and bought a Longines Master Collection Moonphase in blue. I think one of the most beautiful pieces out there. My latest purchase is a Longines Hydroconquest in black. Love that ruggedness. And now I am eyeballing the Oris Big Crown Pointer date in bronze OR (but probably and) the Longines Record in white with blue hands...I guess I am hooked.

[@awe275]

Teddy thanks for your honesty and enthusiasm anything watch related. So refreshing to see that you are not a watch snob 😊

[@jessicabarbosarodriguez9580]

Because of how well you speak of ORIENT it is now one of my favorites. In Puerto Rico we say it has the 3 B's ( BUENO Good - BONITO Pretty - BARATO Inexpensive) Thank you.

[@ozspencers]

My rule for buying watches is the same as many experts recommend to prospective buyers of art or antiques: just buy what YOU like. The important thing is that you enjoy wearing what you buy and, if you do, you're more likely to buy more. As you buy more, your taste will evolve and you will become more discerning and understanding of which qualities and features you enjoy most. That's been my journey so far. Though I had bought watches before, I was amazed to learn, back in the early 90s, that there was such a thing as automatic movements. The engineer in me immediately became fascinated. Quite a few years elapsed however before I bought another watch and it was a quartz Tissot. That came about because I loved the style, it was a make that I had heard of and believed to be good quality, but came at a price I could afford. THAT's when it started for me, just the fact that I now owned more than one watch. Seeing two watches on my bedside table was a small thrill, something I never considered doing before. Well, now the 'ice was broken' and I was open to the concept of multiple watch ownership. The enjoyment I got from wearing the Tissot combined with this and I started to look at watches as something I might match with an occasion, or what I'm wearing, or just because it was beautiful. I'm not a big collector and I still don't spend a lot. I have just eleven watches so far. My favourite is a Mido All Dial GMT. Second favourite is a Seiko Speedtimer 'Panda' solar. In between there are Certinas (which I love for their robust build), more Seikos (including an Indian 'Frankenwatch' that I love to bits), an Accurist, a Citizen and another Tissot. I need more arms. Oh and be aware that just swapping the bracelet/strap can COMPLETELY change the look of a watch. You'll be amazed how $50 can change a 'meh' watch into a stunner.

[@nickvassiliou9340]

Baldessarre ! You really resonate almost exclusively with late teenager needs, preferences and aesthetics when it comes to watches !) Beautiful !