Automatic Dive Watch Duel: Baltic Aquascaphe Blue vs Steinhart Ocean 39 Explorer - Perth WAtch

Head to head comparison of these awesome vintage style divers - the Aquascaphe from French newcomer Baltic vs the Ocean 39 Explorer from Steinhart!
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#balticwatches #steinhart #automaticdivewatch
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WATCHES FEATURED:
BALTIC Aquascaphe Blue Gilt 39mm (feat. Miyota 9039) - • One Of The Most Gorgeo...
- Official Listing: baltic-watches...
STEINHART Ocean 39 Explorer Gnomon Exclusive (feat. ETA 2824-2) - • The One That Got Away!...
- Gnomon Watches: www.gnomonwatch...
- Steinhart 39mm Jubilee Bracelet: www.gnomonwatch...
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Perth WAtch - Sharing my passion for horology and watches. Enjoy the videos on watch reviews, general thoughts & discussions, side-by-side comparisons, horology topics, and more!
Watch Reviews Playlist: • TAG Heuer Formula 1 Ca...
Watch Topics & Discussions: • Automatic Dive Watch C...
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Music:
"Cataclysmic Molten Core" Jingle Punks
Prelude in C (BWV 846) Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License
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[@kerpowski1]

My mind says Steinhart but my heart screams Baltic. Great video as always, very fair head to head IMO. Cheers!

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks - same for me, heart says Baltic but closer up, the objective shortcomings take over... (this could apply to relationships! :))

[@BALTICWatches]

We always say "Follow your heart" no? :)

[@PerthWAtch]

Hahaha that's a good one! ;)

[@johnatspray]

Yes

[@Mr78Stiffler]

The Baltic on a Nato strap would look amazing! The Steinhart always look a little bit boring for me, could be another Invicta, Parnis & Co 100€ watch by just looking at it.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for the thoughts... hmm, I should've tried it on a NATO!

[@raioni1059]

it could also be a $10,000 Submariner just by looking at it, I think that's what the 100 Euro watches are trying to replicate

[@edwardkollar448]

Great comparison. You were to order the Baltic again starting November 21, 2019, and I did. Baltic said they will be shipping before Christmas.

[@PerthWAtch]

Awesome... hopefully that means it also arrives before Christmas??

[@edwardkollar448]

DHL just dropped off the Aquascaphe in the blue gilt, before Christmas as they said they would.

[@PerthWAtch]

Awesome! I’m sure you’ll enjoy it! Merry Christmas to you :)

[@timothythomas1626]

Baltic I like if the price was less or even $150 less

[@vuxnguyen]

$350 is ok

[@PerthWAtch]

$300 is better ;)

[@jipke]

No doubt a quality piece, but yeah at least 100$ off or a better Swiss for it to justify the price.

[@edf2953]

I think I joined your Channel a few months ago, yet this may be the first comparison review of two watches I have seen. I think you do an excellent job of providing a very logical and fair analysis of the various features of the two watches. I feel that your reviews provide me with a lot of useful information which helps me decide on which of the two watches I would give consideration to purchasing. Excellent video, both in content and presentation! Good job...Ed.

[@PerthWAtch]

Hi Ed, thanks for that positive feedback, I'm glad you found this helpful! I have done quite a few other head to head comparisons, you can check them out in the "watch topics & discussions" playlist if you wish. Cheers, Ivan :)

[@possumsam2189]

That Baltic just takes it in sheer looks

[@PerthWAtch]

It sure is a pretty watch ;)

[@possumsam2189]

@@PerthWAtch Now, Baltic just need someone to make it a Pop-cultural icon. Maybe James Bond or one of his many facsimiles.

[@PerthWAtch]

Such as... Austin Powers? ;)

[@possumsam2189]

@@PerthWAtch Ain't Eggsy the latest incarnation? The late 90s truly was a better time.

[@PerthWAtch]

Haha yeah fair call!

[@peterfrancis14]

Baltic walks all over the Steinhart. Sapphire covered bezel vs. aluminum is just one example. Great to see both side by side, thanks for reviewing

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for the comment - the Baltic has some strengths but Steinhart also rocks! Much better bracelet and superior movement are just two examples ;)

[@PerthWAtch]

That’s one perspective... yes it does have a longer documented power reserve but you will certainly find people who have had problems with the Miyota. As for whether these are more frequent or prevalent with the ETA, well who really knows?

[@lolollolol5654]

thank you awseome review. question: because I need to buy a diver and I am literally thinking for almost a year now between these two: baltic aquascape blue or yema navygraf marine nationale? a versus like this would be so cool. also which do you think should i get and what looks better for you aesthetically?

[@PerthWAtch]

A versus would indeed by cool! I think aesthetically I would have to choose the Baltic because I do get sick of the standard Rolex Subby look...

[@lolollolol5654]

@@PerthWAtch ty appreciate your opinion, greetings from berlin

[@alframseysporndungeon8]

The Steinhart. All the way.

[@PerthWAtch]

Hooyah! :)

[@ImNotEvenaNicePerson]

Does Steinhart have any own designs, or they just mastered copying Rolex?

[@PerthWAtch]

The best Rolex homage is... Tudor ;) Steinhart do have their own designs... check out their site where you can wade through dozens upon dozens of models!

[@martinbeck6134]

Perth Watch Tudor a homage from Rolex? absurd, the first sub maybe, tudor have few models being homaged

[@martinbeck6134]

have you ever see in person a Steinhart homage model?, the does take some details, like the dial markers, shape of hands, but cases are way different, Maybe if you look to a ginault or a WMT you will see a very interesting copy.

[@PerthWAtch]

Absurd?

[@trevbarlow9719]

This is why I can't take Steinhart seriously. They're riding on the coattails of classic designs. Baltic, on the other hand is using classic cues, but putting their own spin on it.

[@ianjr4131]

Great review. I would have loved to see a review of the Baltic Aquascaphe vs the Batavi Noordzee.... Do you think that would be possible?

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks - ah must've been you who mentioned me on Instagram. The Baltic (and the Steinhart) here was borrowed, so it would depend on the owner still having it available for me, and a Batavi being sent to me. It's probably a long shot...

[@mainspring8228]

Hey dude, love the channel. I just wanted to add that while the Baltic, Aquascaphe has a few aspects that make it somewhat original.... It’s an Omega Seamaster 300 homage. You have given the design a few too many points for originality. I personally feel the Baltic design is superior to that of the Steinhart , but full disclosure I feel the sub homage is over done now. ......I really enjoy your videos, thank you

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for sharing those views, and for the positive feedback. These are just my own thoughts, some of which are inevitably subjective. Cheers!

[@robseibertgulfcoastrealest3243]

Though the Steinhart may appear a bit more rugged, to me its too close to the well recognized Submariner. The Aquascaphe takes its cues from the Bathyscaphe, but few know the BlancPain name, or design.. Both well done, but I cast my vote solidly for the Baltic. Either one you choose, enjoy it, use the sh*t out of it like the tool watch it is. Disregard resale, cause you can’t do that with a Rolex or a BlancPain.

[@PerthWAtch]

Great comment Rob, and you're right, everyone knows the Sub, but few know the Bathyscaphe.

[@1SaG]

That Baltic looks amazing. Although, as much as I like patina-lume, in this case I would probably opt for the white on black dial they offer. And on a rubber band of course ... beads of rice bracelets aren't my thing at all. *sigh* ... so many gorgeous watches, so little money ... :D

[@PerthWAtch]

Haha thanks for sharing that... indeed, so many watches, a very first world problem :)

[@WillyMcCoy50]

The Steinhart led me to The Baltic. I watched the resale performance, availability .... hell ..... the history of dive watches. I watched a bunch of Sean Connery as James Bond even to gain an overall sense of watch style and nuanced sophistication. The Baltic Aquascaphe and a surprise Meraud Bonaire were the finalists. The Baltic won.

[@PerthWAtch]

Finalists of??

[@WillyMcCoy50]

@@PerthWAtch my selection.

[@laurentcourtin395]

Do as myself, buy the both. They are so different in look. On my side I chosen the rubber bracelet for the Baltic. I found the rice iron bracelet cheap.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for sharing that - lucky you! A lot of the time these are not available on sale!

[@914Rocky]

I think the Baltic should have won the head to head. The sapphire bezel and crystal demolishes the Steinhart. I’m not prejudiced against the lighter Myota with more power reserve and better beat rate (I think). Switch to the vintage rubber strap on the Baltic and the prices are much more comparable. The Steinhart looks like just another submariner homage. And while the Baltic is itself a homage to the vintage Blancpain, that design is not a dime a dozen. I also prefer less text on the watch face and love the sandwiched face. And that sunburst deep blue is incredible. To this viewer, there is no comparison. Baltic all the way.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for taking the time to articulate your thoughts - it is most appreciated

[@donmongoose]

Late to the party but you're spot on. Whilst looking well made, the design of the Steinhart has zero uniqueness, every single microbrand and fashion brand has an almost identical version of this. The Aquascaphe on the other hand looks unique. Sure, it's influenced by earlier BPs, but how often do we see homages to them. The domed saphire gives the dial such an unconventional, but very vintage appearance. I only found out this Baltic recently but I've fallen in love with it. The only thing stopping me from getting an Aquascaphe right now is the horrendous £ exchange rate, crossing my fingers it gets better soon as this will be my next watch.

[@iangrant8024]

The Baltic is a stunning Watch. They have made a vintage piece which enables me to wear an affordable equivalent of the Blancpain "the father of all divers".

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for that - yeah I do think the Baltic is a rather beautiful vintage inspired piece :)

[@willblake72]

I own two Ocean 39s, a green diver and a Pepsi gmt, and they both have misaligned bezels. 12 o'clock is in between clicks on them, and there's a decent amount of play to the bezel despite them both being so tight they're hard to turn. it would be nice if the bezels would stop exactly at 12. The clasps have sharp edges, my only other knock. Otherwise they're really nice, which is why I've got two. And BTW the jubilee is much nicer than the oyster overall, and lighter.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for sharing that - a little disappointing to hear about the bezel misalignment, I have been lucky not to have had that issue with Steinhart so far!

[@Roughdraft214]

Both are super cool! Just think Baltic is $250 too high. They’re around $700 now will be available again soon.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for that - yeah the Baltic is pushing it a bit for some, given it’s Miyota powered...

[@JamesWilson-lg7bx]

The sandwich dial on the Baltic looks way better than the Steinhart

[@PerthWAtch]

It's got a certain extra character for sure :)

[@BALTICWatches]

Thanks! :)

[@PalhetaFrita]

I'm not sure the Baltic's design is too original, when compared to the Steinhart, tbh. The Steinhart may look like a submariner copy, but the Baltic looks almost exactly like a 60's blancpain batiscaphe. Nice review btw :)

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for that - yeah a few other viewers have brought up the Blancpain similarities too.

[@medderouiche9342]

the Baltic also is a copy of Rolex Submariner 5508 of 1962

[@ErikS-]

Steinhart, without a doubt. I already own 9 Steinhart watches and I like everyone of them. Way better value for money than other watches I own (even Omega).

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks Erik - in terms of value for money I think it's very difficult to beat Steinhart at their price. In terms of design however, that's where they get the most criticisms...

[@jipke]

@@PerthWAtch It looks like an attractive watch for an attractive price... if only they didn't make it a copy of the Rolex. If it was its own thing it would have been suberb value for money!

[@garethsoper9809]

A few points you may want to bear in mind about this video. Whilst the rest of the materials on the Steinhart may be more durable the sapphired bezel is going to be FAR more durable than a metal bezel insert that scratches very easily. It should also be noted that the Baltic's bezel is lumed whilst the Steinhart's is not. With regard to "brand" I'm not convinced that Steinhart being around longer and more of a mass producer are plus points. Given that the Miyota is a fairly common movement it should be just as easy to take care of should the "baby" fail years down the line. I have spoken to both companies' customer service and Baltic are more congenial and more open to discussion and special request consideration. Whereas with Steinhart it's more a case of this is how it is and that's that. They would not even consider changing the bezel insert from metal to ceramic even though they sell the bezel inserts separately and in sizes that would fit (I offered to pay extra for the change but they had no interest whatsoever in doing so) this does not bode well for any future work your watch may require. On the other side of the argument, and most importantly this first one, Steinhart now produce an Ocean One Vintage which, with it's domed sapphire (although not double domed) is more comparable to the Baltic than the model used in the vid. Lastly, both the new model of the Steinhart and the second run of Aquascaphe cost more than previously. The Baltic is now $724 US PLUS tax, whilst the Ocean One Vintage is approx. $561 US INCLUDING tax. With the tax taken into consideration this separates the price point of these watches more greatly than the numbers alone would suggest. Lastly, I feel that brand and original design, in terms of value could be one and the same. One watch is fairly exclusive and the other is ANOTHER homage watch that will exist in far greater numbers. Is that exclusivity worth the difference in cost? Well I guess that's for the individual to decide. For me the Mercedes hour hand damages the worth of the Steinhart as something to hold onto and the price comparison is not at all favourable towards the Baltic given the swiss movement in the Steinhart and the tax complication noted above.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for an in-depth comment Gareth. Sounds like we agree on most things here: - metal insert scratches up more easily than sapphire - agreed! - Baltic bezel is full lume, Steinhart just has a lume pip - agreed! - Miyota is a fairly common movement - agreed! - Baltic is now even more expensive than the Steinhart - agreed! - Steinhart Ocean Vintage would be more comparable - agreed! Just too bad I didn't find one sitting around the house to use ;) Regarding the exclusive nature (or not) - keep in mind that the Steinhart is a Gnomon exclusive which frequently sells out, and with no guarantee of future restock. Also you stated that it is "another homage watch"... make no mistake, the Baltic is also "another homage watch" ;)

[@garethsoper9809]

@@PerthWAtch If they were closer in price I'd buy the Baltic for exclusivity despite the movement (as mentioned) it's also worth noting that Baltic chose this movement specifically for the thinness which along with the strap has an argument for less weight and profile against your mention of weight as quality, but, as it is, I think it wouldn't be a good price tradeoff against the Steinhart Ocean One Vintage so, in the absence of alternatives in this price range, I'm going to just have to suck up my dislike of the overtly homage nature of it.

[@garethsoper9809]

Just out of interest, any opinion on this at $800?: drop.com/buy/raymond-weil-nabucco-gmt-automatic-watch#overview 2893 is great right?

[@PerthWAtch]

Hey that's a pretty nice watch actually! The 2893 is a solid GMT movement... however given that they have not stated the grade, it is most likely the standard grade (these come in 4 grades up to COSC being the best). Still, a solid movement overall.

[@lllllllllllllllll111ll]

Sapphire bezels can crack though

[@pablorages1241]

Well Steinhart for me ... I like the jubilee style band and i can't get use to that reserved bezel on the Baltic

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for the thoughts as always :)

[@zatoichi1335]

Thanks Ivan, interesting review. I would love to see a comparison between the Baltic and the Lorier Neptune III. Both are vintage inspired and are 39 x 47 mm in size. Both make use of the M9039 movement. At $500 the Neptune is more than $200 cheaper than the current price of the Baltic. Cheers and keep well.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks - yeah that would be a good comparison! I did contact Lorier in the past I think but they didn’t respond...

[@zatoichi1335]

@@PerthWAtch Both The Neptune III and the Falcon II are available again since 15 min ago on the website. I just ordered the Falcon green & gilt. Didn't want to lose out again, since they usually sell out quickly. Go well.

[@saintdave1877]

The Baltic domed glass and bezel is quite reminiscent of a Vostok Amphibia , at least from the side profile.

[@PerthWAtch]

Hmm interesting, I get what you mean!

[@randynovick7972]

When I was looking to the mid-priced sub homage choice I would make, Squale was my choice. Steinhart just didn't have enough of their own distinction -- uniqueness, maybe. I've had a Squale Matic for awhile before that choice, and no Steinharts, so one might think that I'd do something different, but Squale had the better value in my view. Also, beads-of-rice is supposed to be a flexible bracelet. I would have given the win here to the Baltic.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks Randy - which categories specifically do you think the Baltic should've done better? As much as it is an aesthetically pleasing design, with my hand on my heart I have to honestly say there is no way it is objectively better than the Steinhart in any way... I just reviewed a Steinhart 1545... seemed even less distinctive to me TBH. Look out for my head-to-head against this Steinhart coming up soon!

[@randynovick7972]

@@PerthWAtch Thanks for asking! Look, we differ in opinion, and that's all. You're not wrong, but I do see it differently. Primarily I would have scored the bracelet higher for the baltic and not knocked the miyota for being uni-directional. Pins are fine, and the flexibility of beads-of-rice is an advantage, as I see it. There are great uni-directional movements like the 7750 out there, so it's a technical detail but not a minus in my book. Also, brand was weighed too heavily for Steinhart as they seem to me more of an upscale, somewhat pedigreed Parnis than anything else. Again, these are my opinions. As long as you asked about categories, the "durability" category is itself suspect since you pointed out nothing other than mass and lug thickness, and you did not do any actual test for durability. You reported no conditions or tests of actual use. Durability is resistance against WEAR. Neither watch looks worn, nor did I catch any report of durability in the context of wear. Don't get me wrong, your opinions are yours. What a wonderful world it is where we can share opinions! I do not think you're misleading about your impressions. I disagree, however, and when it came to dollars, I put my money on Squale over Steinhart in the category. No worries. I'm still going to tune in for your perspectives. It's good to hear different viewpoints.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thank you for taking the time to share those details Randy, it is most appreciated! :)

[@DoyThinksThis]

That baltic is beautiful!

[@PerthWAtch]

Agreed :)

[@BALTICWatches]

Thanks man ! ;)

[@24hourgmtchannel64]

Steinhart cost less and uses the Sellita SW200 and not cheap out with the Miyota 9039. That's a major plus.

[@PerthWAtch]

Yeah fair point!

[@jamessmith6402]

That Baltic with the beads of rice bracelet is a winner 👍 thanks Ivan 😁

[@PerthWAtch]

Most welcome James, thanks for the thoughts! :)

[@BALTICWatches]

Thanks ! :)

[@104Discoveries]

I have both of these and agree with your review 100%. Nice video!

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks - glad you enjoyed the video! You must have quite an eye for these... both seem immensely popular and sold out!

[@104Discoveries]

@@PerthWAtch we were on the waiting list for the Baltic and my wife was ready when the Clock Struck and she got it!

[@914Rocky]

I just bought this Baltic. It’s my first luxury watch. Quite a big step up from my Bambino and Seagull 1963. I almost bought the Tudor Black Bay 58, but this Baltic really spoke to me.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for sharing - quite a step down from a Tudor BB58 but it’s a good watch :)

[@urieelSEptim]

I love the Baltic - too bad its way overpriced

[@PerthWAtch]

Yeah many do feel that way... and at present it might as well be $2000 since we can't get it!

[@BALTICWatches]

The sapphie double dome and the sapphire insert cost more than an ETA 2824 top grade. Its pretty often that people put the value of the movement ahead of the rest. But a watch is not only a movement. ETA is not supplying anymore, and the 9039 is a better movement for me because its reliable, strong, precise, easy to service, constant in terms of supply, without date, and THIN !

[@willest8480]

@@BALTICWatches Baltic really went out here replying to criticism, just ordered one for myself. Love the look, and the fact that the crystal is sapphire. I'm heading off to the army soon, will be wearing the baltic during my time there, counting on the watch being able to take the beating.

[@TedCornish]

Baltic please but ivan it's really close. Great head to head though 👍👍

[@PerthWAtch]

Thank you :)

[@productproducer664]

Imo the submariner look is so common (but still really good looking), so the Baltic being based off of Blancpain's dive watches makes it quite different and unique in comparison.

[@PerthWAtch]

Yes it does!

[@alexsdg3441]

Hi Ivan. thanks for this comparison. I also came out with exactly same scores, each category. Amazing, ha ha ha Normally, I write long in detail, but in this case, I completely agree with your scores and explanation. Super well done, Ivan. thanks a lot and great day to you.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks Alex... looks like my subversive horological programming is finally taking root and your brain is slowly being molded into becoming one of my minions! Muahahahaha! In this context, I find your profile pic oddly coincidental... ;)

[@alexsdg3441]

@@PerthWAtch ha ha ha. "I picked dah cotton Massa. May I get mah Steinhart, now Massa".

[@fabricebar5036]

The Baltic has a bracelet that is very pleasant to wear with a super quick disassembly which the Steinhart does not have, moreover it has a real diver's water resistance, namely 200m instead of 100m from the ocean, the Baltic is better in everything except possibly at the level of the movement, the Steinhart to an SW-200

[@PerthWAtch]

Steinhart looks better. Bracelet finishing is better - didn’t I say that? The Baltic clasp can draw blood if you’re not careful. I don’t see how it’s “super quick” to disassemble.

[@craig2100]

Nice comparison. Love the way the Baltic looks

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks Craig - I think the Baltic is gorgeous!

[@BALTICWatches]

Thanks ! :)

[@JKT-ul6kd]

Nice comparison. If you switch the 12 on the Baltic with the inverted triangle on the Steinhart you’d have total dial symmetry all around! The Baltic looks nice, but for me the Miyota movement is a no-go. I hate the wobble that comes from their unidirectional winding. It reminds me of a Timex M79 on steroids. It’s overpriced for what you get. If it had a Swiss automatic movement I think the price might be justified. I love the beads-of-rice bracelet it’s on. It reminds me of the one on my vintage Omega Seamaster. Looks and feels great. I have the Steinhart Ocean 39 Explorer on an oyster bracelet. Great watch. My only complaints are the lume is not so great and the movement has a ghost date position.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks man - yeah I do feel the price is high on the Baltic, so many others are giving Swiss movement at this range!

[@777greglee]

Great review. I agree on most points but I’d have gone the other way for durability because of the bezel material. The sapphire bezel is more scratch resistant.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for the thoughts!

[@andreaiacolina]

I prefer the Steinhart for sure

[@PerthWAtch]

It's a close one and I'm sure you're not alone :)

[@watchalot919]

I own the steinhart and agree with outcome. For me the movement tips the scale

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks - I agree ;)

[@rerami30]

Check out the Meraud Bonaire. That would make for a nice comparison against the Baltic AQUASCAPHE and Steinhart

[@PerthWAtch]

Sure looks like a watch I'd love to review! :)

[@rerami30]

@@PerthWAtch I am sure you would love it. It is very underrated in my humble opinion.

[@daspiper8941]

I would buy the Baltic over the Steinhart.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for sharing :) Do you know why?

[@brucecameron7172]

Baltic any day

[@PerthWAtch]

Sure

[@surfitli]

Nice comparison. I would bother me having the Steinhart day 100m when it’s actually 300m wr. I don’t interstand why they did that. The Baltic reminds me of the EMG/HKED Nemo.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for that - yeah that's to do with slavishly homaging vintage Rolex models, although oddly the explorer dial models were actually 200m. Yeah someone else mentioned the Nemo when I reviewed the Baltic... or was that also you??

[@surfitli]

Perth WAtch that was me. I have the Nemo. Its dial is very different but the case and bracelet are similar. Same movement. Nemo has a ceramic bezel insert and a better clasp.

[@grahamlawton6250]

I really like the format of the video. Great job!

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for that, I appreciate the positive feedback :)

[@TheAmbrose20012002]

Not bad👍🏻, but unfortunately you haven’t mentioned the most important part that both movements performance including power reserve and accuracy.

[@PerthWAtch]

“Most important” is subjective. And I didn’t mention this because I already did it in the full reviews - check them out. I don’t repeat what I’ve already done elsewhere.

[@TheAmbrose20012002]

@@PerthWAtch The“Subjective ”is subjective too and the both watches comparison as well, But anyway I got my “subjective”, thanks man!👌🏻

[@PerthWAtch]

Good for you!! ATB

[@willardhooton920]

39 Ocean Explorer for the win🤩

[@PerthWAtch]

Hooyah baby! ;)

[@johandebondt5749]

Maybe I'm deadly wrong here, but the Baltic reminds me of the 50 Fathoms... which is a very good thing. Love that beads of rice bracelet, and you can't beat that Miyota. C'mon Baltic, another run please. 500 Euro would suffice though ;-)

[@PerthWAtch]

Well you're not the first person who brought up the fifty-fathoms resemblance. Apparently they may be doing another run later this year...?

[@kellypaws]

Steinhart, thank you.

[@PerthWAtch]

That’s $600 thank you :)

[@abramhenk5503]

Do you still own the steinhart? Is that steinhart be able to use in swimming? This is because, i bought it used, and my seller told me that i shouldn't use it for swimming.

[@PerthWAtch]

The Steinhart can be used for swimming and diving. Who is your seller who said that?

[@derfdswed]

Baltic is a great watch,, I just bought one. I like it better than the Oris 65. I also have two Steinharts right now so there are +/- for both, but Steinhart OVM 39 is several hundred dollars cheaper than BALTIC with the exchange rate right now.

[@PerthWAtch]

That's true - so is the Steinhart a greater watch??

[@hjander]

Good take, side-by-side.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks :)

[@brianwarner44]

Baltic all the way!!! I love the Aquascaphe

[@PerthWAtch]

It’s quite nice… but…

[@brianwarner44]

@@PerthWAtch I just think the Baltic looks way better...the Steinhart to me just looks like every other Sub Homage. The movement though is better on the Steinhart imo

[@PerthWAtch]

Fair enough mate 👍

[@timothythomas1626]

Baltic is $200.00 more for the steel bracelet version. Well if the sub has not been made for 60.00 years I would give it to steinhart.

[@PerthWAtch]

I think this Sub hasn't been made for near enough to 60 years, so woohoo for Steinhart!! :D

[@treehugger3615]

The Steinharts bezel is more practical as it shows more markings and its easier to read. The markings on the Baltic are kind of decorative.

[@PerthWAtch]

Yeah good point!

[@derekshearer9049]

Love the design of the Baltic but now way. Not a fan of that particular model of the Steinhart but own other models. Steinhart's are practically indestructible. Cheers

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks Derek - I think the Steinhart is definitely the more substantial piece in hand.

[@commentjedi]

😍vs😍 Great comparison! I'm very interested in these types of watches. There are more brands offering this low price vintage genre: Lorier Neptune, Maen Hudson, and Tiger Concept has even more true-to-vintage, early subs (except the crystal ). Also like the Certina ph200, though it is 42mm.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for sharing those - all very interesting models I would love to review! :)

[@nomore515]

I had never heard of Tiger Concept. Are they any good?

[@commentjedi]

No More , Tiger Concept have great looking well finished watches of rare old Rolex designs. But their water resistance is untested and the lume is quite poor. So it might be overpriced. It's a good source for parts. I have a TC 1655 that looks amazing.

[@Billeh556]

Jēzus Meza the lorier is ridiculous value.

[@nomore515]

@@Billeh556 Not really, because of the NH35 movement and lack of sapphire. Maen Hudson is the real value option.

[@benstoyles1297]

I used to own a Steinhart OVM. The screw adjustment on the bracelets is not a good thing. Strongly recommend replacing the bracelet if you have one. As you're wearing the watch the screws can slowly back out. I used to keep a screwdriver in my desk draw to tighten them every so often at work. I also had screws fully un-wind, the pin fall out and the watch come off my wrist. Both times I got lucky, the first found it in the couch cushions of the pub I'd just left, the other I managed to catch the watch as it fell off my wrist. Push-pins all the way.

[@PerthWAtch]

Curious to hear that... with care taken to make sure the screws are tight, I’ve *never* had any problems with them coming loose. Sounds like you need some lock-tight or similar solution.

[@benstoyles1297]

@@PerthWAtch It varied a bit depending on the tolerencing of the individual screw and it's location on the band. While I owned it was a daily wear, or in a small roatation, so it may have seen a bit more wear than others with a wider collection would otherwise put it through.

[@LeroyWiley]

Good review and thanks. The Baltic looks like it took some design cues from the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, so I would not have given it a point advantage for originality in the style category. And I would have given the Steinhart a two-point advantage on the calibre. If the Baltic used a Seiko movement, then maybe only one point, but Miyota is a step down from Seiko, IMO. It's all subjective though.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for that - very fair points you make. I would say that ETA Elabore > Seiko NH35A > Miyota 8 series is pretty objective. I was actually tempted to go for a 2 point spread on the movement but I guess my desire to avoid pitchforks at my metaphorical door was greater ;)

[@frankdirscherl2345]

BS scoring! The Baltic has this beat hands down. Should even be a close-call.

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks for sharing your definitive opinion. Anything rationale or objective to add? PS. I agree, it is a close call ;)

[@Mark-sd7fc]

That Baltic looks like a homage to the 50 phantoms

[@PerthWAtch]

Yes it does!

[@sssooottt]

Phantom: a spirit of a dead person believed by some to visit the living Fathom: a unit for measuring the depth of water, equal to 1.8 metres or 6 feet

[@PerthWAtch]

Thus the legendary 50 Fathoms is water resistant to... less than 100m!

[@Mark-sd7fc]

sssooottt always some kinda spelling , punctuation nerds lurking on the internet and today it’s you. d**k h**d. Pretty sure I’ve used that correctly

[@sssooottt]

@@Mark-sd7fc It is not about spelling. Many people misperceive the name of that watch, hence the comment. Anyway, can't be bothered replying with insults. I am not 15yo.

[@jque35ify]

I wish steinhart would release a 39mm ocean vintage

[@PerthWAtch]

Didn’t they? If they haven’t it will simply be a matter of time I reckon....

[@user-sungpark0217]

welcome back again teacher

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks man :)

[@rayquintanilla614]

Switch bracelets and the winner....Baltic!

[@PerthWAtch]

With the Miyota movement, and not being Swiss made... not sure... It's also less durable IMO.

[@rayquintanilla614]

Perth WAtch just more attractive of a watch for me. I like the domed crystal and the nod to the “50 fathoms” look. I’m just not into the Steinhart.

[@BALTICWatches]

​@@PerthWAtch Swiss made doesn't necessarily bring anything more today. At a time maybe, don't get me wrong but the Steinhart and our watches are made both in the same country (Although we do assume the country of origin of the component) China produce today very qualitative pieces. We do assemble in France, they do it in Swiss. For the movement, as i said above, a watch is not only a movement. ETA is not supplying anymore, and the 9039 is a better movement for me because its reliable, strong, precise, easy to service, constant in terms of supply, without date, and much thinner.

[@PerthWAtch]

BALTIC - thanks for chipping in, always great to hear directly from a brand! Just to clarify, are you saying these are both made in China? Ray - Yep, I gave it the extra marks for those very aspects, but there are still all the other categories I went through...

[@BALTICWatches]

We are producing our watches in HK and the assembly is done in France. We put only "Assembled in France" on our watches. Some uses "Country + made" when its only assembled, which I find a bit tricky for the customers.

[@brucecameron7172]

Great review Ivan, thank you

[@PerthWAtch]

Thanks Bruce - glad you enjoyed it :)

[@andrewd7586]

Toss a coin. Heads you win, tails you win👍🏼😎 Good review Ivan, just confused which to go for...🤔💭

[@PerthWAtch]

Haha thanks man - well, I have good news: no need for confusion, just get both! :)

[@bensieber6960]

Really, any "just another Rolex homage" watch should lose at least 10 points in the style category. I mean, is there anything more boring?!

[@PerthWAtch]

Yes

[@PT111111]

They need to stop this vintage trend/fad.

[@PerthWAtch]

Why? They're both sold out...

[@timothythomas1626]

Baltic is $736.00 with the metal braclet and $636 with a rubber strap

[@PerthWAtch]

Might as well be $2000 seeing as you can't get it ;)

[@PerthWAtch]

That's awesome!!

[@friscokid66]

This Baltic is not original design either--I've seen many similar dive watches. They're both nice looking watches but I'd prefer the Steinhart cos' it's a better value for the money. My only beef about it is that bulging lume button on the bezel which can chip and break off.

[@PerthWAtch]

Good points there - yes the Baltic most closely homages some varieties of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms IMO.

[@ocb05]

Are you kidding? This Aquascaphe is one of its kind, Lorier Neptune maybe close to it but material used is totally on different level! Actually it is the Steinhart that i have seen so many 99% exact copies of it! Come on, Steinhart design is just another 95% variation of Submariner. This Aquascaphe is in between fathoms and Bathyscaphe by Blancpain, which i am pretty sure 99% of the world population has not even heard of it. Yes not original design 100%, but i call bullshit on your saying many similar watches out there. If you have seen many similar watches out there, it is the Steinhart. Sure Steinhart is cheaper than the baltic, but to be honest Steinhart design is not that impressive. Perthwatch is using the wrong Steinhart to compare. Because this Steinhart is not even vintage styled at all. Value for money is subjective. 14.5mm thickness including the crystal Submariner homage Dot lume only Oyster / Jubilee (good quality bracelet tho) Yeah it is a good value for money if you compare to another submariner homage. But to vintage divers? Perthwatch please bring out the OVM 39mm instead. That would be a better comparison. But still, my vote goes to the Baltic.

[@PerthWAtch]

I fully agree that the 39mm OVM would be a better comparison but sadly I didn’t have one to “bring out”... in fact I looked, and didn’t find one lying around the house. If you can lend me one I would’ve certainly done the comparison ;)

[@ocb05]

@@PerthWAtch I think the ovm 39 is with gnomon no? That is way harder to find.

[@PerthWAtch]

Hence explaining why I can’t “bring it out” ;)

[@Javi_C]

:)

[@PerthWAtch]

;)

[@paulkopper2582]

The "Brand" comparison should not be that close; Steinhart is well-established for over a decade and Baltic is an up-start with a couple of years in the game

[@PerthWAtch]

Thank you for your thought!

[@daveho852]

Baltic is surely better... in my opinion Steinhart is same as Parnis🤣 with branding

[@randynovick7972]

This! A thousand times, this!

[@PerthWAtch]

I thought the latter half of the comment would be an uncommon view... maybe I'm wrong! ;)

[@BALTICWatches]

Thanks! :)

[@willardhooton920]

Absolutely disagree