AFFORDABLE WATCH BRAND TIER LIST (My Sub-$200 Rankings)

[@BensWatchClub]

For those wondering...yes the Filippo finally arrived 😂😂 stay tuned for that video!

[@VintageInvicta]

Invicta is even above God tier! 😏

[@justme7920]

Make sure to wear the £18 suit in that video!

[@gavindalziel9022]

F**k me! Can't wait😆

[@seanlawrence7340]

Jesus!! Its only taken about 5 months

[@gamesetmatt23]

Sounds to me like someone at Filippo HQ stumbled upon your video and thought, 'gee, maybe we should send this guy his watch?' 😏

[@jancovanderwesthuizen8070]

That’s a clickbait thumbnail if I’ve ever seen one 😂 I came here fuming

[@Theking196]

Same

[@se7ense7ens37]

SAME HERE I WAS BOUT TO THROW HANDS

[@blackdragon44]

Yeah that tier list had me pissed

[@lone_007]

Same bro

[@cheesefarmer3545]

@@se7ense7ens37 yeah, nobody talks smack about casio!

[@fr0stak3n]

I got so triggered when i saw Casio D Tier in the thumbnail

[@obey_these_nuts_]

fuckin same

[@obey_these_nuts_]

Clickbait af

[@dondon1817]

Me too, casio is still the best when it comes to quality compared to mvmnt and Daniel wellington

[@bmwdagang]

Wanted to punch the man thorough the screen

[@7itese840]

I know clearly that he didn’t mean it, but it feels triggered to be deceived.

[@nicolasdiazpavez5069]

Citizen, Orient, Seiko, G-Shock and Lorus should be a solid S. The japanese brands are so competitive in the quality items.

[@taz24787]

YEAP

[@MrHotjag]

Bulovas are decent

[@pjfsr7024]

Meh...I had 2 Seikos, first one went in twice for repair on a third trip I demanded a replacement, died a year later, never bought another Seiko. Had a G-shock, the band turned color and broke, replaced the band a year later stop charging, never bought another G-shock. Yet my 2 Timex' s are still going strong; one is 15 year old the other only a week old. My 2 YO Armitron is also working well.

[@VihaanBelani]

​@@pjfsr7024 how the hell did you manage to break a G-Shock ? 😅

[@pjfsr7024]

@@VihaanBelani I didn't physically break it, It stopped charging.

[@jmsantiago1]

I disagree with Citizen at B tier. I can understand they barely have any offerings for smaller wrists but their eco-drive movement will outlive you and it will keep perfect time. Great vid btw

[@jmsantiago1]

@@mikedandurand3548 I also have girly wrists, slimmer than his actually. And Citizen is 99% of the time a no go for me but I still appreciate their quality and reliability of their watches.

[@mikedandurand3548]

I agree and please forgive my surly comment. Had a bad day and was grouchy but no excuse for that comment.

[@jmsantiago1]

@@mikedandurand3548 it's all good no offense taken, you have a good day sir!

[@ΠαῦλοςΠαυλίδης-χ7θ]

Orient, Seiko , Citizen , Casio are all s tier for god's sake!

[@peltotalo]

Absolutely

[@Notorious544d]

@Frank Andreas Bauer No, just no

[@alexiracheta995]

This is the way

[@garethcollocott6310]

Yip you are right on that!

[@alexanderblack6619]

@@Notorious544d let me guess, you wear a 150 dollar dress watch to your minimum wage job?

[@mytuberforyou]

Citizen and Seiko need to go up to "S". They both do a fantanstic job within the quartz chronograph sector with many sub $200 offerings that look nice and are extremely reliable, and Seiko's NH35/36 is practically the foundation of the budget automatic market.

[@saivishwath3773]

Yeah but for what they ask they don't even give a sapphire crystal. You get the HaRdLeX which is apparently wayyyyyyyy better than mineral. So Seiko is where it should be. But the watches themselves are really good.

[@mytuberforyou]

@@saivishwath3773 It's not all about the crystal though is it? Consider the Omegas and Rolexes with plastic that sell for tens of thousands? I have only one work watch (Citizen) that I have had to replace a crystal on, it was dragged across a stucco wall, having the crystal replaced by a Citizen authorized service place was about $35.

[@Ryan-py1yo]

@@saivishwath3773 where in the world are you gonna find a sapphire for 200 bucks? The fact that Seiko offers a proprietary crystal harder than mineral which you usually get at that price range is just another plus for them.

[@hypersynesthesia]

@@saivishwath3773 if you go a little over that price point in the sales you can get a sapphire crystal. I picked up Citizen’s radio-controlled Perpetual Chrono A-T for about £270 in the sale a few years back, with sapphire crystal.

[@dave-ld8mo]

@@hypersynesthesia The same applies for Seiko though. Got myself a Seiko Solar SNE523P1 with sapphire glas on sale for 116 € (they retail price is about 220). There are actually plenty of saphir glas options from Seiko at that pricepoint. Although it is kind of an either automatic movement with hardlex glass or quartz/solar movement with sapphire glass decision.

[@ThereIsNoTomorrow1994]

This is some triggering clickbait 😆

[@Andrew-J316]

Citizen is not on the same level as Invicta, Timex or Nixon! :) Citizen is way better and deserves an A. ;)

[@NathanChisholm041]

This list is a train wreck!

[@Aaron-fb1pq]

Nixon's poop I've had 3 of them

[@ericmittens]

Citizen is the worlds biggest watch company with zero iconic models. They are the king of buying up shitter watch brands (bulova, Frederic constant). Best thing they do is the Miyota 9000 movement series which gives sub $1000 watches a decent 28k auto movement.

[@NathanChisholm041]

@@ericmittens Are you serious? Citizens are awesome so are Bulova. I think you have been watching too many shitty Archie the numbnut watch rants!!

[@john-tomlinson]

I thought both Citizen and Timex should be higher. Timex seems slightly overpriced for what you get in terms of specs, but have massive brand heritage and some amazingly good designs. The Navi Harbor watches are really classic.

[@ExterminatorElite]

I appreciate that if you go for something like a Seiko or Orient, it can look impressive to most untrained eyes, but it can even get the nod of approval from those who know their watches, unlike the heavily-marketed fashion watch brands.

[@TheFlyingFishy]

Just ordered my first Orient Star :D Ive been a Seiko fan since i was a kid. My dad wore them and still does ;)

[@Retire-py2yk]

citizen should be in class, A ... it is definitely better than NIXON and others...

[@armandr1613]

Is it though...

[@beaujpatt]

@@armandr1613 have a look at the black pro master tough. Great watch

[@e28forever30]

I am surprised at the low ranking Citizen receives. I have owned 4 Seiko watches, ranging from 200€ to 720€, and only one was faultless. Bezel alignment, chapter ring alignment, badly regulated movement.. Not to mention their cheap stamped clasps... I own one Citizen, the bn0150-61e, and it is a great watch. Quality control is spot on, fit and finish is faultless, accuracy is astonishing. Citizen beats Seiko in value for money and should rank much higher.

[@MrKinghuman]

Hey, I love my nixon. Gunmetal sentry, I quite enjoy it

[@targasantoso4131]

My promaster will sad

[@Furniture121]

Citizen should be higher in my experience, the Eco-Drive is a tank of a movement.

[@johnbewty]

Agreed. The WORST thing you can say about Citizens is that they tend to be kind of boring, design-wise. But they have a lot of nice designs too. And they're tanks.

[@ocb05]

Agreed. They might not S tiers in design But for their eco drive models they can be S or A tiers

[@afcortesr]

I have a few Citizen watches and would definitely get some more, the Promaster Eco drive range is a nice looking diver in my opinion

[@lewisprice-nutman6974]

Yes citizens are bulletproof i know probably 5 or 6 people who have worn theirs daily since the 90s and are still going - I have had 3 in the last year or two and the qc and specs are great for the price - the best watch you can buy and wear for 20 years without touching

[@Tobiemoss]

Yeah but its an old mans watch with hideous styling.

[@TheDrExaviouse]

My first watch as an adult was a Fossil. I really enjoyed it and it was quality enough to be happy for 4 years with no other watch, but i have moved on. Watches at just a slightly higher price are a big leap in quality.

[@an_accessible_watch_4u]

Still have my Fossil 'Big Tick' which I bought in Rotterdam over 20 years ago... and it's going strong.

[@afz3003]

Same the first watch I bought for myself was a Skagen watch from Fossil.

[@alizarkami6187]

I have a Fossil I bought 8 years ago, and indeed still going strong

[@m.r.2718]

I also have two Fossils, they're pretty good (for the price). I would've put it in the B-category tbh

[@racingtherolla]

@@an_accessible_watch_4uI have one of those too, how do you like yours?

[@olivermj69]

Ben: Dropping Seiko because they don't advertise Also Ben: Dropping Vincero for advertising

[@OfficialJamesGardner]

Lmao exactly. I honestly thing Vincero are B tier. Albeit bottom of B but B nonetheless. What do you think?

[@olivermj69]

@@OfficialJamesGardner nahh, if Vincero would be B, then Seiko shoukd be S+. Vincero is nowhere near Timex

[@nganthony8646]

@@olivermj69 I agree. I think Vincero at bottom of C was already generous.

[@iamthelaw69]

Seiko dropping because of poor advertising is justified. Seiko admitted it themselves that their market share is eroding partly because of it.

[@sagardimdung7909]

@@OfficialJamesGardner did buy one? hahaha

[@Hashkatina]

Not bad on the ranking. However, Seiko is "S". They are one of the most important watch companies of all time and offer a wide variety of choices for all budgets. No question on Casio as the best bang for the buck. Cheers!

[@Naptosis]

The only issue I have with Seiko is their dial alignment issues, which are unacceptable when the watches are created by machines IMHO.

[@youareprobablycorrect3898]

Definitely!

[@Tobiemoss]

Casios are like £500 now. An Orient Kamasu is like half that.

[@Naptosis]

@@Tobiemoss Well, they range from £15 to £1,500 (I'm wearing a £500 Casio as I type this) but the higher priced pieces are generally anniversary or special material editions. The standard editions, and the Orient Kamasu are all great value for money. I'd love to own an Orient.

[@henryettoit897]

seiko is not S anymore. The new seikos are too expensive to be S. Orient is definately S.

[@evil1st]

Timex deserves A tier at least. The fact that you said they are bringing more people to like watches gives them a lot of solid ground on A tier. They have been around for almost 200 years and they make very stylish watches that don't cost an organ. The Easy Reader is as iconic as the Alarm Chrono from Casio too being a popular choice for guys who want to have a more formal time piece in their wardrobe.

[@InterestingTed]

Agreed! Timex is my favorite, having owned both S and many As on this list.

[@macvos]

They really are an historic brand, although my only Timex watch died within 2 years. It was a mechanical one though, probably using a cheap Chinese movement. Their quartz watches are probably a lot more reliable.

[@nothingbutsomething158]

I personally feel offended about Citizen, I've had a citizen watch since I was extremely young and it has stuck with me for a long time. I'd say probably A tier at least, definitely miles above Invictia

[@NathanChisholm041]

Don't worry mate he hasn't a clue! If its isn't girl size he hates them.

[@Ratselmeister]

He could buy the women versions

[@blackhandofset]

My Citzen Promaster Diver has ruined every other watch. Nothing beats it

[@zoel86]

@@blackhandofset same with me. i have the citizen promaster pepsi diver automatic and i love it.

[@khalbar8935]

S bro s tier

[@LoKi01208]

Seiko should be in S, tons of history, still a full in house movement and watch. And a full range within their company from 100 to 100k.

[@hgr.7857]

💯

[@shyguy.654]

Seiko is legendary. I was chocked it was not s tier.

[@dan3458]

@@shyguy.654 absolutely chocking!

[@williamlee9135]

Seiko is the only movement that can’t be replicated. Should be in the God tier. Also do A+ watches.

[@erabhikdasgupta]

For less than 200 usd. Most feature packed ones are atleast 350 usd.

[@kirwinroach7089]

I've had several Citizen and Seiko watches. To say they are below Casio is very, very strange. For me, Citizen and Seiko are top quality and highly respected watch brands

[@Tonofbrickz]

This guy ranked invicta up there with Citizen !!!!!! As you Brits say “ are you daft?!”.

[@Zoltan1251]

he completely forgot about their pricing!!!!!.. no doubt D tier rip off

[@louiscyfer6944]

i have invicta and citizen in the s tier.

[@erica.5620]

No he didn't?

[@justinweisberg1634]

Invicta isn’t as bad as everyone says they are. I have a few and I love them. Just not the super oversized ugly ones.

[@MrBenben135]

As a brush

[@BrendanSilent]

Seiko and G-Shock are the most widely respected affordables in all of watchdom. Making them below Orient and on par with Avi-8 is just weird

[@Shabec2982]

Yea, I felt the same way, it doesn’t make any sense.

[@faizalakbar1660]

me too come on.

[@Amin_2k]

I have had a LOT of seikos and orients, and in THIS price category orient beats seiko no contest. When you take a bigger price category then seiko wins.

[@Counz223]

Orient > Seiko has gone a bit up market, Orient has taken over this space and quite convincingly too. Typically more accurate than equivalent Seikos and got sapphire crystal at unreal price points

[@Orcanislupus]

I thought G-Shocks were just tough Casios

[@IlllIlIlllIIllIIIlllIIIllllI]

Seiko and Citizen have a long history and they make some solid watches, they definitely needs to be on the top.

[@05Rudey]

I have a soft spot for Fossil, when I decided to be more dapper and less slobbish in my appearance in my mid 30's. Among the first items I bought, along with a Brown pair of chukka boots and a Navy Blazer was a Rose Gold Fossil Grant Chronograph with a blue dial and brown leather straps, and these 3 items became my foundation items for well over a year. It was the watch that got me back into all things watches. Sure, the watch isn't anything special, but it's one of the core items that I will always look back fondly on.

[@DeezSkates]

Have had multiple citizens, including one from the late 90s. Best watches ever. Never had alignment issues. Not one ever needed service. Quality for the money makes them my favorite brand. Idk how they could end up in B tier other than the creator just had very little experience with them. From the comments it seems most strongly disagree with this rating.

[@markymarknj]

I'm a HUGE Citizen fan! Own six of them; my collection is a mix of Navihawks, Nighthawks, and Skyhawks. I LOVE THEM! They offer great quality for the money. They're also innovators in the world of watchmaking; it was Citizen who brought out the quartz movement, titanium case, and solar power. They belong higher up on the list. Also, I think Swatch should be higher on the list. Though I wasn't a fan of their multicolored watches in the 1980s, they were unique, different, and fun. They also saved the Swiss watch industry; for that alone, they should be higher up!

[@hypersynesthesia]

I love Citizen too. That said, I did have one where the eco-drive turned distinctly less than perpetual - I had to leave it in sunlight whenever not wearing it to maintain the charge, which isn’t how that’s meant to work. But I think that was an unfortunate blip. Overall they’re phenomenally durable, high on function, and good-looking with it.

[@stuartr2764]

I really like Citizens too, for both design and quality. BUT, like the reviewer, my wrists are fairly slim and most Citizens are 41mm + case size - just too big for me, sadly. Wish they’d do some 37 or 38 mm case size watches.

[@furtalance_x]

In my opinion Citizen is the poor mans Rolex. I absolutely love the brand. I have had 3 watches over the last 10 years and they are absolute show stoppers. I have never been complemented more on my citizen watches then I have been on any other brand (I own Seiko, Casio & Timez as well)

[@Dragonblaster1]

I have a Citizen Eco-Drive CC9015-54E GPS watch. It is hands-down the best watch I have ever owned. Of course, I know it cost quite a lot more than the more affordable watches you review, Rob, but it's nowhere near Rolex, Breitling or Omega-level cost. Yet, because of GPS synch, it is always correct to the very second, doesn't need the battery changing because of the Eco-Drive movement, and because it has a titanium case and bracelet and sapphire crystal, it looks as good as new after 5 years of daily wear, and it has an "align" feature where, if a hand is out of alignment, the wearer can make micro-adjustments to realign the hands, all without stripping down the movement or even opening the case. Horses for courses, I suppose.

[@martonmehesi-melis5072]

That might be true, but is costs more than a mechanical Tissot PRX

[@mortarsquad12]

Dude why you gotta do citizen like that :(

[@lewisprice-nutman6974]

Its brutal - Citizen are a tier in my opinion

[@limacuan]

Yea they're definitely an A in my personal collection, their QC and overall packaging is excellent but even here in Malaysia Orient has a larger following amongst watch enthusiasts.

[@alexlilano1931]

@@lewisprice-nutman6974 A is fair.

[@andyfin8845]

I think it is just his opinion so respect that but , my opinion is he has no clue on watches , soon he could be a new watch blogger , let’s see

[@watchandjewelryloft4713]

I do watch repair. I definitely facepalmed his Citizen placement. Ridiculous.

[@Shri_V]

Citizen should have gone in the A tier...a very underrated brand.

[@zogzog1063]

Citizen should be top of the A List

[@henryviiifake8244]

Casio is an _easy_ God-tier.

[@juniorjohnson5961]

I agree I've got Rolex and Omega and like Citizen just as much for the money it's the best I own

[@justinlarsen2281]

Bought myself a citizen to celebrate my 5 year anniversary at my job. When I hit 10 years I saved up to buy something high end, but was so happy with my Citizen I just bought another and put the rest in savings.

[@donquique1]

Citizen was the first manufacturer that could mass produce titanium watches. Casio or seiko do not have the eco drive technology. It is just amazing. I have 3 of them and will buy more in the future.

[@Flint_Westwood]

Hi Ben. As others have pointed out, if this were my list I would definitely put Citizen in the S tier. I have two in my collection and both have been bulletproof. Well made, great quality and no alignment issues whatsoever. Both mine are lumed (one of them is a Promaster Diver, the other a Field Watch) and they are up there with the best of 'em. Very good indeed. I'm temted by Orient as a brand but would not put them in the S tier since there is no service (and therefore aftersales) network in the UK. Shame. Great video as always 👍

[@gaius_marius]

I would put Citizen in the A tier at least, maybe even S. Their Eco-Drive line is very innovative and they have amazing, feature packed models. They also have some amazing automatics, including their Pro Master divers. Overall, I think they offer excellent value for the price.

[@dandc2011]

Seriously, I feel personally attacked that he put *INVICTA* on the same level as Citizen...

[@oing1800]

Same here

[@xxafrogamingproxx8013]

Fuck that seiko ftw

[@crusader5989]

Yeah citizen should be up there with teh best, Seiko too.

[@charlieanyon5523]

I agree

[@Alias_Anybody]

You could easily make a tier list with the AliExpress brands alone.

[@henrikgostomski286]

Heimdallr, Steeldive, Pagani, Sugess, Cadisen = God tier Those are the ones i've ordered watches from, rest seems either very pricey or trash. I'd love a video on that, too

[@kheldaur2107]

Yes. I'd like the JOMW dude to make this. He has a lot of experience with those.

[@mikehatfield3561]

Aliexpress no. I don’t want to give China any more money. Especially directly Personal preference

[@nintendokings]

@@henrikgostomski286 San Martin and Sea-Gull are S tier. The ones you mentioned are A or solid B imo

[@GodIsInHisHeaven]

@@mikehatfield3561 what difference, other than making yourself feel better, if your money goes to China directly or indirectly? Pretty much all your swiss/german watches are all manufactured in China with final QC or assembly in Switz/Germany.

[@amiridham51]

S tier 1. Seiko 2. Casio/G-Shock 3. Orient 4. Citizen A tier 1. Timex 2. Vostok 3. Rotary B tier 1. Fossil 2. Skagen 3. Invicta C tier 1. Tommy Hilfiger 2. Swatch D tier 1. Daniel Wellington Never try the other brands, but this is my personal opinion

[@JoeMenjivar]

"no where to chuck them (Daniel Wellington) other than d-tier" How about the trash can?

[@mikewysko2268]

Orient, in house movement, bright lume, my favorite brand.

[@SillytanN]

orient star seeker gmt... really unbeatable

[@GodIsInHisHeaven]

not to mention a lot of their watches just use mineral crystal

[@andrewrobertson3894]

What's the best daily from Orient for around $200?

[@andrewrobertson3894]

@@silverghost4206 Thanks, Anthony. I appreciate the detailed reply.

[@verbalkint4258]

@@andrewrobertson3894 for around 200 bucks? The Kamasu is a great option. You can find the kamasu below 250 bucks in a lot of places, specifically ebay. The Kamasu is a steal. It has a sapphire crystal, above average movement, good finishing, lume, and 200 meters water resistance.

[@sdaiwepm]

My Voctok Scubaman had the smoothest second-hand sweep of any watch I've owned - absolutely hypnotic.

[@kleanovodust-bin69]

The thumbnail is the proof that MVMT is better than Rolex.

[@ChintanPandya01]

Citizen is definitely on par with Seiko, Casio and all. Being from India i have an, added respect for them, as they help build the first indigenous watch company in India called HMT, in 1961. HMT made very high quality mechanical and quartz watches. Mechanical watches were based on citizens parashock design. HMTs calibre 0231 is fabled for it's robustness. These watches keep on running! I have my grandfather's 50 year-old HMT mechanical watch and it still works flawlessly!

[@KNuckleZification]

Yeah man, I love Citizen. They're such classic watches for damn good prices.

[@daveyboy6985]

@@KNuckleZification one thing I've noticed with Citizen compared to Seiko , is that citizen have better quality control, when it comes to the assembly of their watches.

[@Drhomelander]

The problem with citizen is the models they have are not so nice and also the quartz models are trash. I was looking for a descent everyday watch and i ended buying a casio edifice over a citizen watch just because of the specs. My watch has a screw down crown and also a screw down cover, the citizen watch i wanted has none of that. Maybe the automatic citizen watches are another story.

[@BosonCollider]

@@Drhomelander The Citizen quartz watches do quietly work for 20 years without any required maintenance though. But Casio is a god-tier affordable brand.

[@impact0r]

@@Drhomelander What are you smoking? Citizen's quartz watches are some of the best in the world, alongside Casio and Breitling. Quartz is the thing Citizen is best at.

[@JBD0909]

I found a Timex watch that I fell in love with, it's the Timex Expedition Scout 40 Indiglo. Love this thing. Fun Fact: in season 1 and 2, Richard Dean Anderson wore that watch in MacGyver.

[@Bpf1893]

Love the looks of that watch

[@pjfsr7024]

I have 2 Scouts, one I just broke the stem off hitting a door frame, it's 15+ YO ( still working), I just bought a second one same model; I expect to get just as long a life as long as I don't hit a door frame at the wrong angle.

[@Inv1cto]

I've got one too! Love it.

[@HieronymousLex]

The expedition field watches really hit the spot for me. I have a 36mm Field Post and I love it. The build quality is great with the sapphire crystal, you can get one for $160 or even less on sale. Love the value proposition Timex brought to those expedition watches

[@evagorasm]

Citizen belongs in the A tier imho. There are tons of options at afforfable prices. I own 3 and none of them have misallignment issues and the build quality is superb. The lume on my diver's watch is spectacular to say the least. Try an eco-drive field watch BM8180-03E at 37mm, they are suited for smaller wrists.

[@e28forever30]

Actually, there is a big misconception on Citizen lume. A lot of reviewers state that the lume is good, but not at Seiko’s level. It is true that Seiko’s lumibrite initially glows brighter, but after a few hours there is no difference. After 8 hours of darkness, my Citizen Promaster bn0150 outshines my Seiko Turtle. JOMW pitched the Promaster against some tough competition in one of his “lume wars” episodes, and it easily won, even beating a Rolex...

[@rodbelding9523]

The only thing that offended me is where he put Citizen, Citizen Eco-Drives rule. Definitely A or S tier.

[@misan234]

Great video Ben. Cheers!

[@motaman8074]

At 37.2mm, the Citizen Chandler field watch would be perfect for you Ben. Definitely A tier.

[@danielhristov6175]

Putting citizen on B because of misalignment... at 100£ prices and putting seiko on A is just insulting. I’ve got a 650£ king turtle full of issues including misalignments... so yeah... placing citizen there... insulting

[@e28forever30]

True, Seiko is the king of lousy QC..

[@JeeGee114]

The 2018 UK only Citizen Pro Master tough "Ray Mears" is glued to my wrist. A tank. Hitting the markers every time is extremely satisfying.

[@mrbacchus6127]

As a Seikoholic I am disturbed that they were not placed at S tier. C'mon who else makes everything in house and have made huge innovations over the years? Also Citizen needs to be bumped up also.

[@henryettoit897]

seiko is not S anymore. The new seikos are too expensive to be S. Orient is definately S.

[@henryettoit897]

look at the 5KX vs the orient kamasu. Not even a fight

[@mrbacchus6127]

@@henryettoit897 He already had Orient at S tier so they don't need to be moved up. Think about how many people over the years started the hobby because of the skx and how many high end collections still have one as a beater. I started out with the Mako 1 but prefer the skx. Currently the Kamasu is better than a Seiko 5.

[@mrbacchus6127]

Respectfully disagree. When I can buy a brand new (real) divers Save the Ocean Turtle on ebay right now for $295 it still fits S tier.

[@henryettoit897]

@@mrbacchus6127 BRO the save the ocean turtle still comes on hardlex lmao. Even even a $75 pagani design gives you saphhire. Its not about seiko in the past but seiko now. Kamasu literally gives you sapphire under $200. Seiko has been terrible with QC issues too, chapter ring misalignments and lousy bracelets . The SKX is overrated for what it is. 7s26 is notorious for being inaccurate and thats usually they 1st thing that gets replaced when people mod their SKX.

[@Probotector_AUT]

Citizen, Casio and Seiko for me, in that particular order. Can't beat the Nippongang.

[@noobfl]

thats the holy trinity

[@mylesgalos6465]

Best value for the money

[@user-ez5vq9fd2t]

But no Orient, eh?

[@megatremoloud8213]

Put Orient along... and that's "The Four Horsemen" to me...

[@macvos]

@@user-ez5vq9fd2t it is, but only if you value mechanical movements.

[@Lancherix]

We needed this!

[@junwoojang2941]

I think citizen is higher in quality than Seiko when it comes to entry to mid range. Less quality control issue imo

[@Walterliquori]

you would be correct sir

[@luisgarciamusicchannel]

Honestly, citizen echo drives blow seiko out the water. But you are correct, grand seikos and even the alpinist are very well crafted.

[@ROrneli]

People keep saying that about seiko but my bezel alligns and the only issue i got is a slightly grindy crown (when unscrewing) other than that no issues

[@macvos]

@@ROrneli it's not like the majority of their watches have serious issues. It's just that a larger percentage of them do than they should, considering the history and know-how of Seiko.

[@lookatwrist]

Hard to beat Japan. Casio, Citizen, Seiko, Orient. Surprised you've had Citizen QC issues, they've always been great for me. A real sweet spot in the $200 range. Also surprised the DW-5600 isn't a good fit even on a slim wrist. They're supposed to be a bit large, but I think the square is very reasonable.

[@hgr.7857]

I have bird wrists¹ and the iconic DW 5600 looks & feels just right on me. I'm wearing mine right now. Some G-shocks are comically oversized (👀 Casioak), but the OG DW5600 is absolutely perfect (for me - it is subjective). It's a watch that doesn't wear as large as it measures. The octagonal, rounded square shape sits nicely where it should, on top of my arm where the bones meet, and the downward curving integrated lugs hug my wrist quite nicely. It's a classic & am icon for a reason. 💯 ¹Edit: 6.75" wrists, so I guess pretty avg., just always seemed slim compared to my more robust & durable arms & torso

[@professorpick]

agree. I have sadly small wrists and the DW fits fine

[@P_95-77]

if the dw5600 isnt for ur wrist try the gwm 5610 its a good watch very similar to dw 5600 bit more expensive than it bur its smaller than that.its also got solar power

[@masscomnet]

The top tier should be Seiko, Citizen, Orient, and Casio. Take a look at the tech behind Citizen's Eco Drive....it's pretty impressive!

[@vamheredur413]

That thumbnail baited me so hard, ngl

[@Bravesailor95]

Citizen and Timex should be on the A tier. G-Shock & Seiko on the S teir.

[@Jesusp898]

Agreed

[@Osama-Bon-Jovi-01]

definitely

[@RM-rv6hf]

Strong agreed

[@marianosoba2611]

Clearly

[@Amin_3k]

agree 100%

[@epicsasquatch452]

With Fossil I would recommend the Rhett chronograph, it's much better for skinny people. Even though the brand seems heavily criticized, I really loved mine in middle school. I once imagined one watch in my head before knowing of the brand's existence and I saw that watch at an outlet store. Black and gold, black band, caught a lot of people's attention in middle and high school, then the band fell apart 5-6 years later, I miss wearing the thing. Even though my bias is for other reasons.

[@BandrewScott]

Yes to that intro. Amazing.

[@JKT-ul6kd]

At least Citizen makes their own movements. A lot of these other brands use either a Miyota or a Seiko movement to power their automatic watches.

[@madetech]

Miyota is part of the citizen group that also includes Bulova. They developed so many different technologies it's crazy.

[@vast634]

Casio also uses some Citizen quartz movements in Edifice models. They usually perform more accurate than Casios own quartz.

[@WatchUnwind]

Citizen now had a 6000 dollar watch

[@prod.deathwish]

never knew that

[@MrR2185]

Orient is special too. Their mechanical movements are all in house. A rarity today. Other notable brands that are in house are Rolex and Omega and some of the super insane expensive brands like Patek lol.

[@stonerdemon]

I bought a nice Citizen Ecosphere two years ago. I think the brand's natural tier is A. The watch is freaking awesome.

[@G1NZOU]

I'm mostly a Seiko fan, but Citizen has been drawing my eye lately, especially if you go beyond the relatively boring selection of eco-drive models UK highstreet stores seem to stock, go online to their JDM models at a higher price point and they're amazing.

[@Bemjji]

Yea citizen is one I don’t agree with. Every Citizen I’ve had has been extremely high quality for the $$$. I really don’t think they’ve had mass quality control issues (at least not like seiko has, or so I hear.) To me, value for buck puts Citizen above Seiko on the list.

[@alexandrupara4574]

I still can't believe he put Citizen with Invicta. 😡

[@MammothBehemoth]

Citizen have "Asia-only or South-east-Asia-only" and "Japan-only" models, even limited models not sold anywhere else

[@G1NZOU]

Personally I'd rank Citizen the same as Seiko, they've got just as much expertise in trustworthy reliable quartz, and their mechanicals are precise and functional. Seiko has the edge in horological history due to being older and being the first to release a quartz wristwatch, as well as improving so rapidly in the Swiss trials. But Citizen still deserves a massive amount of respect for their approach to high quality watches. My favourite that I'll probably never get to own is the Titanium Caliber 0100 with mother of pearl dial, ±1 second per year and an amazing bracelet. While I'd love a spring drive too the Caliber 0100 seems like the gold standard in high precision quartz.

[@G1NZOU]

I think for me Citizen just has an even worse marketing (in the UK at least) and stocking issue than even Seiko, compared to the fashion brands. In stores like John Lewis I see a few cocktail times, a turtle, some samurai and a few different quartz models from Seiko but the selection in most shops of Citizen seem to be very bland looking eco-drive models. It's not necessarily even Citizen's fault but the selections shops choose to stock makes me realise why fashion brands like Micheal Kors and Armani Exchange sell so many watches.

[@GabrielGGabGattringer]

S tier: I agree with Casio & Orient, would put G-shock & Citizen here as well A tier and lower: yes I agree with you.

[@robertpeluse3586]

Your sense of humor makes these videos a lot of fun!

[@colonelangus3826]

Casio, Orient, Seiko, Citizen would be S for me. As much as it pains me to say it, I think Invicta should be near the top of A tier. Their watches that aren’t ridiculously large and gaudy are honestly pretty great even though their pricing tactics are terrible.

[@happyface4234]

Not to mention, they also uses the nh35 movement.

[@ChromeMan04]

Are u kidding? They are so bad!

[@ROrneli]

the problem with invicta is their deceptive market practices ... "800 dollar retail now 100!" BS that really gets me. but invicta could be packed into many different companies in one.. some watches are very decent and even carry seiko or swiss movements but some are chinese crap.. as long as you know a bit about watches you can walk away with a nice invicta BUT you are problaly better off spending that money somewhere else like in Casio, Seiko ,Orient or Citizen to be fair or even a micro brand. Also invicta needs to chill with 5 atmosphere watches with helium release valves and quarts watches with exhibition backs honestly i think they prey on people with no to little watch knowladge ..

[@colonelangus3826]

@@ROrneli couldn’t agree more Robert. Their pricing tactics are horrible and they have some ridiculous watches. They prey on the uninformed but they have some real gems if you know what to look for!

[@ROrneli]

@@colonelangus3826 i think a lot about a watch is the name. Even if the watch itself is really nice it would still be stained by a name that would evoke laughter at parties and it would require for you to explain and try to defend your purchase.like buying real state in afghanistan. I mean if that does not bother you then yeah i agree.

[@lanonymequicroitenlascience]

How did Swatch end up next to Aliexpress ? Doesn't Swatch deserve at least an A ranking for innovation and history (with system 51 and partly saving Swiss watchmaking) ?

[@94jmbottaro]

Yea but as an individual, a switch watch sucks as they are built to last maximum 3 years

[@RaggyJha]

@@94jmbottaro My Sistem51 is 6yrs old. It still works great and I wear it every day.

[@velvetkittyn]

@@94jmbottaro I know my experience isn't indicitive of all of them, but I currently have 3 (an 84 White Mephis, an 85 Red Wave and one whose model I forget from the early 90s,) and they all still work wonderfully and get worn regularly.

[@CthulhUwU]

@@94jmbottaro my swatch is 10 years old and still working perfectly

[@ArlowFarrell]

I generally agree with most of this, but you really missed the mark on Swatch and Citizen. I don't even like citizen and I know they belong in the B tier; so does Swatch.

[@TheJbertolino]

I bought a Vincero. Outstanding timepiece and thanks for the deep dive

[@Isle0fRed]

Being a Citizen fan boy, seeing it on B tier hurt me!

[@scottiemcgee3838]

@CarFreak I feel like actual watch enthusiasts would shit on that hot take.

[@WatchUnwind]

What are your thoughts on the new 6000 dollar citizen ?

[@Jabber-ig3iw]

You can’t go far wrong buying a watch from a company that actually makes watches.

[@oscarbazlinton6742]

exactly as long as it isnt a fasion watch it will be ok

[@adamcarter6862]

Citizen eco drive titanium watch is real nice. I've had one and wear it every day for the last 5 years with no problems. It's light weight and easy to read.

[@mikexmartinart]

You did Citizen dirty!

[@happyface4234]

miyota movements are pretty solid

[@guillaumefigarella1704]

I like how not a single one of the many comment I have read is criticizing Casio has number one

[@jasonschwartz8507]

Citizen is ranked too low. Their JDM models are much better and have smaller sizes. Also Lorus is a sub brand of Citizen.... Citizen has better quality control than Seiko nowadays.

[@muhdasyraf1315]

Agree

[@watchandjewelryloft4713]

Lorus is part of Seiko. Not Citizen.

[@jasonschwartz8507]

@@watchandjewelryloft4713 You're right my b

[@NafeesMosharrof]

Totally agreed, except that of Citizen. It's deserve higher.

[@Mikey-ym6ok]

So does seiko. The fact it’s in A tier even at the top of A tier is a major insult.

[@MrR2185]

I agree with everything I see here, except for Citizen. I think they should be in the A tier. For around $100 USD, you can get a stainless steel eco drive watch. No maintenance, reliable and accurate. You can even get some of their eco drive drivers for under 200USD on sale and that is a lot of watch for the money. As for Orient, a cool thing about them is that their mechanical movements are in house! Not just another seiko/miyota drop in special(I know they're owned by Seiko). I have their Neptune(formerly named Triton) diver and for the price I paid, it is a monster. Sapphire glass with AR coating, amazing case finishing, power reserve indicator with lume, built like a tank. Orient is a great brand.

[@bripost]

Let me pile on with one more scolding for placing Citizen so low. Definitely deserved higher.

[@jordansadler8608]

Great video mate. Didn’t know where to start when working out what brands to look at, this really helped. I already have a Citizen watch (bought for me) and it seems like a lot of people think that’s A class so that’s good. Looked into Orient, Seiko, Lorus and Casio/G-shock and see now why they’re so well thought. Bought a blue dial Orient AA02002D diving watch, a black dial Casio Edifice EFV-100D, a brown leather strap Lorus R3A61AX9 and a G-Shock GBA-800-1AER to start off my collection. These should give me a nice range of occasions to be able to wear them. Going to look for a nice Seiko down the line and I really like the look of Avi-8’s watches as well. Thanks so much!

[@randombutpro7547]

I just started watching your videos and boy do I love the intros!

[@augustineelmquist3376]

Best quartz for me - Casio, Timex, Citizen Best affordable automatic for me - Orient, Seiko, Citizen.

[@ovidiub7316]

A "down vote" for trashing Citizen. Obviously you don't know what you're talking about.

[@SilencedMi5]

He's playing a bit dumb to stoke some frustrated comments down here. To be fair, some of Citizen's "mall" models sold in the US aren't a great showing for the company. With Citizen the quality increase going with their Japanese domestic market models is extreme.

[@LeroyCReed]

Super fun video. Changed my mind about a few brands.

[@demonstructie]

Cheers Ben. Just some random thoughts from me: *Citizen* is a definite S tier manufacturer, easily the peer of Seiko, Orient, and Casio/G-Shock. Particularly their Eco-Drive and Promaster ranges. *Seiko* is an absolute S tier manufacturer but the reasoning behind their pricing strategy is a mystery to me. MSRPs are way too high in many cases and 2nd hand prices fluctuate with demand and are inflated for 'desirable' models. Great watches if you can get one for a decent price. The Seiko 5 models however, I've never been a fan of. Folded bracelets and 7S26 movements are sub par; Orient does better automatics for about the same price, and AliExpress has better ones for much less. *Timex* does some cool models but many of their affordable watches are plated base metal, which has no place in modern watchmaking imo. *Vostok* ("Boctok" on the dial is cyrillic script), great watches but you have to know and love the history and reasoning behind their design and construction. I'd personally place them ahead of Timex and Swatch, but below Citizen, Orient, Seiko etc just because the product in hand (acrylic crystal, wobbly crown, base metal on the classic komandirskie models) feels less like a quality item, _especially_ to someone unaware of the history. *Pulsar* should have maybe been on the list? Like Lorus, but better in overall build quality, finish, bracelet, specifications etc (and also more expensive). Or, like Seiko, but worse (and more affordable). Fans of Casio's Edifice line will probably find some of Pulsar's offerings quite appealing as well.

[@J0hnny8ravo]

I agree, mostly. The Promaster Citizens are exceptional watches, but not really affordable.

[@Treviscoe]

Thanks for your observations. I agree about Pulsar (who I believe are a Seiko sub brand, like Lorus?). I've got a dual display Pulsar watch with a steel bracelet and I loved the feel of it on my wrist. Unfortunately it was secondhand and the person who had it before me got some water in it and the movement packed up eventually, so I had to give it up as a bad job. It was this mode, the Pulsar World Time NX14-003; www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/nx14-x003-pulsar-gents-world-time-267855486

[@demonstructie]

@@J0hnny8ravo eh you can pick up a NY0040 or BN0150 for

[@demonstructie]

@@Treviscoe That's an awesome looking watch, wasn't aware of it. Reminds me of a Speedmaster X-33. Have you bought yourself a new watch yet?

[@Treviscoe]

@@demonstructie Hi, thanks for replying. No I haven't yet, it's one reason I've been looking at Ben's channel recently. I quite like the look of a Casio (Sapphire or Edifice), an Orient, or maybe that beige Lorus Titanium. I've got a Tissot Seastar automatic which is twenty-five years old now and needs a service, and the cost of servicing it is into the hundreds of pounds (I've been quoted £235). I think for that money I could get a new watch instead (or another second-hand one) which would work just as well as the Tissot does and wouldn't need an expensive service every few years as most automatics do.

[@tomvanzanten479]

You really had me raging at the banner picture😂

[@markymarknj]

Ben, I must disagree with some of your picks. I'm a HUGE Citizen fan! Own six of them; my collection is a mix of Navihawks, Nighthawks, and Skyhawks. I LOVE THEM! They offer great quality for the money. They offer good, solid watches that most folks can afford; they're a watch of the people. It's right there in their name: Citizen. They're also innovators in the world of watchmaking; it was Citizen who brought out the quartz movement, titanium case, and solar power. They belong higher up on the list! How can G-Shock not be up there in S Tier? How is that possible? They build good, solid watches that work. Nothing, and I mean nothing, can take the beating that a G-Shock can take! I had one of the originals back in the 1980s, back when I served in the US Navy; I beat the SNOT out of that thing, but it always came back for more! It always worked. No one else offers the combination of tech, toughness, and value that G-Shock does. Also, I think Swatch should be higher on the list. Though I wasn't a fan of their multicolored watches in the 1980s; though they were never my cup of tea; they were unique, different, and fun. Even today, everyone knows what a Swatch is! They also are largely saved the Swiss watch industry; for that alone, they should be higher up.

[@christianherrera4729]

Crazy to see citizen so low. No way they’re on the same tier as invicta and nixon. Funny to see that’s what about 90% of the comments are about too, you know you fucked up man 😂

[@NathanChisholm041]

There are too many other factors to make a comprehensive list with tiers! And Citizen is certainly above a Vostok!

[@Kottekungen]

I love that you startee by looking at nick, you guys are my fav watch channels:)

[@luisgarciamusicchannel]

Got to say, i have both a pro-master and an echodrive... They are phenomenal watches for the money. No way is citizen placed correctly on this list (in my opinion)

[@Feynman981]

Nico from Pride&Pinion is my hero!

[@kantharos1]

I am a Timex watch collector and thank you for your assessment that it wasn't on your two lowest levels.

[@johnjohnson5496]

I bought an Orient Kamasu about a month ago for my first automatic and first real watch, and I have to say I'm in love with it. The bracelet is starting to feel a little shoddy after taking some fun window shopping trips and getting hands on time with the likes of Oris, Rado, Tudor, Omega, Breitling etc, but the actual watch itself is very nice and worth every penny and I can easily get a higher quality bracelet.

[@mronissopwnage]

My RADO captain cook is my favourite watch. It’s amazing, well it better be for $3k 😅

[@Shakenbeer]

Another Seiko subsidiary - Pulsar. Would be nice to see some reviews. There are two somewhat affordable brands from Germany: Junkers and Zeppelin.

[@lmaoroflcopter]

Ah man I had some lovely pulsar watches as a kid/teenager. They were the king's of Argos here in the UK. Bit more expensive than a Casio but not horrendously expensive.

[@ZeldaReacts1]

Ive had my fossil watch for about 11 years now. Best watch I have. Best quality. Still perfect and I wear it everyday.

[@marcuscastillo514]

This reviewed the ugliest fossil has to offer. They have way better watches that should put them better than aliexpress but not better than citizen.

[@casualsuede]

Having Ali express on your score chart is like us Americans having Macy's on our list and giving them an A Tier cause they sell seiko.

[@AliasEveWatches]

Very helpful and comprehensive! 😁 First time to hear about "Aliexpress Drop Shipping". I like the ranking being displayed on screen throughout the video. Definitely agree with Orient and Casio at the top. "Clinging to the edge of the cliff" - Poor Vincero 🤣

[@paulb9453]

I was once an admirer of fashion brands, thinking DW, Nixon were aspirational watches, until I discovered Ben and other reviewers, what an eye opener. I’m now aspiring to be an Hamilton owner.

[@bassguitar1919]

i think Hamilton is my longer term goal right now as well....probably a jazz master. do you think they're probably the best value in the 500 to 700 USD range? Thanks! I'm a newbie.

[@zethloveless7238]

@@bassguitar1919 depends what you want but is alot of good micro brands that seem to offer a lot for that price as well.

[@hudsontoo1212]

I have a Khaki and I just love it. For the price I paid, it’s a super nice watch and I hope you’ll get a Hamilton- I doubt you will be disappointed:)

[@lappin6482]

"Vincero...if I see one more ad I'll bloody drop em" 😂👏

[@andrewd7586]

Quite a comical but honest appraisal Ben!🤣 I think Citizen could go up a level. I’ve found the models I’ve bought to be on a par if not slightly better than Seiko! Bostok/Vostok are AMAZING watches! Their durability & accuracy are terrific! Yes Invicta have that controversial engraving but these too are highly durable & accurate. The others are I reckon spot on. Having said that I think you needed an F***** tier for certain models on E tier. 🤪 A happy New Year to you, your other half & families! Here’s to hopefully a better 2021! Cheers from “Down Under”🍻🇦🇺

[@michaelzuccardo5414]

Nice video Ben! I personally would have put Seiko and Citizen in the S category, and probably G-Shock as well. These are iconic Japanese brands who have made significant innovations in watch making. Yes, they all miss the mark on occasion, however; Seiko- first Asian watch to get a chronometer certification by the Swiss, Citizen- first solar watch and largest watch company in the world, G-Shock's anti-shock case design, etc. By the way, I'm not sure they still make them, but there used to be a Baby-G, G-Shock watch that was only about 40mm or smaller. And Citizen does make small case sizes then 42 mm. I own several, including the perpetual time Calabre (not sure I spelled this right...deal with it!). Great video!

[@giancarlosarmiento9256]

There are plenty of citizen for small wrist, you just have to search for the JDM. They are superb quality, saphire, titanium, in house mouvement.

[@MammothBehemoth]

Yeah, even limited edition models

[@Io_Al-Ahmak]

I’ve got a Citizen BM8180. 37mm field watch style, very clean styling and excellent lume. I found it a bit small liking on my wrists, but it’s never missed a beat in 11 years. Eco drive is holding up well even though I have left it in the dark and I charged for several months, it’s still holding charge and keeping excellent time

[@bigc1966]

I own an Invicta pro-diver, 40mm. Love this watch. I have had it going on 4 years and have not had one issue with it, except it running a little fast and have to adjust the time about once every 2-3 months. Beat the hell out of it and still works like new. I do agree that they make a few "wierd" watches however the pro-diver is a very good watch, IMO.

[@mytuberforyou]

If the bezel insert doesn't fall out- they are glued in with something like contact cement.

[@YourCitizen]

That thumbnail would cause some fights

[@DonCacomixtle]

Everything OK but Seiko, man they're a def S

[@wolfgangandrewx2416]

hmm, citizen on par with nixon and lower than lorus? gotta say i disagree. your main con was size, but invicta/gshock got pass on that same criteria.

[@ROrneli]

Gshock did not get a pass he rated it lower than the rest of the casios. Which i think it is wrong considering how popular it is in the government branches

[@Birb_of_Judge]

Honestly, I've had a Fossil watch and i may buy one of their automatic ones. Because I've actually held one of them and it seemed quite nice, at least for the price

[@ChristianDesmarais]

Bulova!! Accutron II line, Archive series, Curv collection....I think that Bulova is worth mentioning. Also Seiko and Citizen are clearly on top for me along with Orient, and I would downgrade Casio a little. Mainly because of the lack of mechanical options.