Finding the best watches at 500, 1500 and 4000 USD

[@wmwhite1826]

Fairly certain the Baltic Aquascaphe GMT shown at 2:52 isn’t quartz as labelled. It’s got an automatic movement. Certainly, the non GMT Aquascaphe has an automatic Miyota 9039.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Editing mistake. Should have been a timex in that spot. (Which has a similar bezel which is likely why I mixed them up) Well spotted. 😀👍

[@wmwhite1826]

Similar looking watches! :)

[@patrickhartmann1540]

Own the Timex Q GMT and like you describe of watches in this price range, it feels light and lower quality in hand and the GMT hand is difficult to set correctly, but I love the look, credentials and it’s lightness = comfort. “Good watch” 👍🏻

[@welshskies]

I love this channel, it makes me remember the basic principles I was taught when I did my economics degree forty five years ago; principles such as "diminishing maginal utility", "market positioning" and "conspicuous consumption". Curves keep appearing in my head. I have a few Christopher Ward watches (six and counting) and at this point in my life I can't justify spending more money on a watch just to buy brand recognition. My CW watches haven't had any problems with either build quslity or accuracy and a couple of them are now over ten years old. I've also been wearing the same Pulsar (Seiko) kinetic watch for sailing and motorcycling for the last twenty five years and that watch still looks the same and still has the same space age accuracy.

[@gordonfreeman4491]

I really like, that everytime you mention a watch, you also show a picture of it. THAT is the only way to do it on video; too many KZbinrs think that video = podcast.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks - It started out as a way of adding visual interest, but it turns out not everybody knows every watch so adding the watches mentioned for context has been useful for many 😊

[@GlubbDrubb]

Yeah, I'm new to this scene, so I appreciate the visuals.

[@onedirection3510]

I also enjoyed this aspect of the video, however keep in mind that occasionally the watches being mentioned audibly are not the ones shown visually. This can be a little confusing.

[@troytona]

This channel is quickly becoming my favorite channel when it comes to watches. Super insightful. Subscribed 👍

[@patrik3450]

Now the bot comments are taking over. This has been posted every last of his 7-8 videos

[@bg-nm1qf]

Same

[@troytona]

@@patrik3450 your comment had me questioning if i was an actual bot for a second there 😂😂

[@patrik3450]

@@troytona no problem 😅😂 but there are a lot of them everywhere on KZbin these days.

[@knight8003]

he really is unique in terms of his analyses. like the underlying theme of the video, he seems to differentiate his approach vs. other watch reviewers

[@woozertoo]

Coffee and a new video from Mike…just part of my Saturday morning routine.

[@szmako]

☺️

[@mindfulawareness1]

Same here. Afternoon cappuccino from my Gaggia, and the video. Wondering about selling my Tudor - oof, their secondary values tumble - great for buyers of pre-loved.

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

@@mindfulawareness1They sure do tumble. I’ll hang on to my Black Bay Heritage a while longer LOL

[@misterc48]

@@eyeheartsushi2212Same here! 😂 I thought it would be time to let go of my heritage 41. But let’s enjoy it a lil longer 🙈

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

lol.... sounds wonderful (at least the coffee does) 😂😂

[@TheGreatestBeyonder]

I’m really enjoying this channel… just fell onto it tonight! My best watch is a super inexpensive Seiko watch my father purchased in the early 80’s. When I turned 16 he told me I need to be punctual for work (my first full time job), and he took it off and gave it to me. He passed away last year, and I’m scared to wear it out and about as it means so much to me.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Welcome here 😊

[@mightya]

I’m convinced that the most overhyped spec is water resistance. How many buyers dive at depth? Power reserve is another spec that I don’t hold much value in. If it’s a daily watch, who cares? If it runs out of power, wind and shake it. I also wonder about in-house movements from brands like Nomos that don’t have USA servicing. Just my 2 cents.

[@brucesuitt993]

Agreed on the water resistance. I just want enough to not worry about it getting wet when I wash my hands or to possibly swim in.

[@schizoidman9781]

and who needs a screw down crown? Not me, I hate these things, just somthing to worry about or break :(

[@skzion2]

The thing is, a water resistance rating doesn't correspond to actual use in, say, diving. So the depth rating is in general way overstated. 300 meters may be more like 100 meters in real use. Fortunately, 100 meters is almost 3x the recreational depth limit.

[@overbuiltlimited]

It is same in the sports car world. I have an old Corvette ZR1 that is capable of speeds of over 200mph. I'll never go that fast, but it sure is a cool feeling driving a car that can. It is satisfying owning a thing that was designed to do something extreme, even if you never test those limits. None of that may appeal to a person, and for those people they make Toyota Corollas.

[@wimplos9232]

​​@@overbuiltlimited you dont have be going 200mph to enjoy a corvette, you can still feel the car's power and handling when driving normal, ive enjoyed plenty of fast cars without breaking traffic laws. you can't feel a watch's 300m rating when washing your hands.

[@tcniel]

A 1966 Bellaire Mechanical watch, still have it and it saved my life while I was in Vietnam, it is my most 'valuable' watch.

[@Greg-fi3op]

You’re one of the best channels about quality watches out there .. Giving great insight to the facts with common sense applied to it.. Kinda like… Seiko’s Lumabrite with several layers applied Verses Hamilton & Tissot lume.. I appreciate your knowledge Greg

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks for contributing . Cheers 😊😊

[@BenMwatches]

Love the no nonsense of the channel No hype Just a well considered and thought out discussion on watches Love the Channel

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Glad to hear it 😃

[@DanGaskell]

Your video summed it up very well. It's like most every product, there's a point when you stop looking at "specs" and pay more attention to the name and when that convergence happens, you'll pay more because you perceive it elevates YOU. The best advice is to buy what YOU like. My "best" watch is my Seiko SPB143 because of the heritage, name and because it just looks cool. Not the most expensive watch, but my favorite.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

SPB143 - also a favorite of mine. So far, likely my most worn watch of the year 😊

[@JohnnyJohnJon83]

My Seiko SKX013 and 009 cost me around $200-300. . Had had it for over 10 years and still running strong. They have 200m water resistance, ISO, rotating bezel day date and automatic. They don’t make watches like these any more

[@ivanmejia6843]

Definitely can last forever with periodic service.

[@kelorednaxela]

Seiko Turtles are pretty good replacements of SKX watches. Sure, they cost more but that can be attributed to inflation. And if you don't need 200m but 100m is good enough then the 5KX aka SRPD series are great and cost $200-300.

[@przemyslawskoczylas5183]

I disagree. Have 2 skxes. Around 5 years old now. For last two years they've been running plus few minutes per day. Sounds OK for the price but it's frustrating especially that THE CROWN on one got very hard to unscrew and had to be serviced. They're objectively bad watches but cool from historical perspective. Also bezel on one stopped rotating. Its all OK if service for them was widely accessible but with rising cost of labour you better learn it yourself or loose a lot of money(in respect to price paid)

[@thewheelieguy]

​@@przemyslawskoczylas5183 Most likely your SKXs have gotten magnetized, especially if you work around cars, audio equipment or other electronics. I brought a watch to the traditional jeweler's and their watchmaker demagnetized it for free and handed it back in five minutes. Later I brought my own demagnetizer for $20 from Esslinger, a watch tools specialist. They're also on Amazon etc.

[@TealBeretta-tq2td]

Your insight stems from common sense but overlooked by the lust of the chase by the masses. Thanks for bringing me back down to earth. I'm a person who can afford watches 10k and less, but prefer the quality of $1500 resulting from the competition. Name allure is something that turns me off and I am a person who appreciates engineering and quality. I enjoy Sinn, CW, Longines & Seiko watches.

[@smgeraldo]

Well said. As a mechanical Engineer I feel exactly the same.

[@yleexot]

Those Seiko movements though. How do they jibe with the engineering mind? I am eyeing the spb143 with the 6r35. I would just like the accuracy to be good enough to not have to think about it. I am trying to digest what another KZbinr (Andrew Morgan) recently said - if you’re worried about seconds per day, you’re doing it wrong.

[@TealBeretta-tq2td]

@@yleexot touche. I've been lucky with mine In fact that is the only Seiko I own hahaha

[@antoombom9584]

@@yleexotforget about accuracy. Nobody is wearing a mechanical watch to accurately know the time. It’s just a piece of jewelry with engineering involved

[@smgeraldo]

@@yleexot Couldn’t agree with you more! As a long time Seiko fan it infuriates me that even the 4R movements can be regulated to +/- 6 or 7 secs per day, and even better on the 6R movements, yet Seiko doesn’t do this simple procedure before overcharging you for the watches that have these movements?!! But it gets better, I have a SLA051 Willard (£2500 when new so not insubstantial money) re-interpretation with undecorated GRAND SEIKO movement 8L35 got it, was running -12 secs per day, gave it 8 weeks to bed in, same! Had to pay good money at a Grand Seiko boutique to regulate it and restore its water resistance back to new, now running +0.5 to 1 sec per day, consistently, superb, and despite all this, love the watch, Apocalypse Now was THE movie when I was a teenager and had to have a Willard! Why Seiko, why the eff do you do this shit? Regulate your bloody watches! Even startup micro brands do so FFS! I will add I am a Mechanical Engineer so precision and making sure things run as they SHOULD do is part of my DNA. So can’t agree with Andrew Morgan, despite liking his channel.

[@FightFramess]

I just picked up the longines Zulu 39 for around $4000 CAD and wow am I Impressed, the overall finishing attention to detail, Movement and the way the crown operates is just buttery smooth fantastic all around!

[@tonydilucente2342]

Where have you been all my (very short, btw) watch enthusiasts' life? By far yours is the best channel that speaks to me while I try and understand the world of watches. Well done, sir.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Very kind of you. Just happy you found me 😃

[@TheAussiePencil]

Wow. I've just found your channel, and it's like a breath of fresh air in the watch world. Other channels have knowledge, sure. But you offer WISDOM. It's amazing. You cut through the noise and actually reveal what's going on below. Incredible. Love it. May you go from strength to strength!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks and welcome 😃😃

[@AvroBellow]

My Invicta Grand Diver #3048 was purchased 12 years ago for $125CAD and, to this day, it still looks and runs as well as it did the day it arrived. That NH35A movement has never missed a beat despite never having been serviced. I can't complain about that.

[@markikn3183]

Another lovely job, Mike. So happens i showed my 12 watch rotation box to a non-watchnerd friend this week and sure enough, his Qs included "What's your favourite?" and "Which is the best watch here?". All i could do was mumble and start explaining comparatives between several much-loved pieces. Anyway, this Saturday morning i think it's my vintage Seiko Bullhead. Ask me again next weekend 😀

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Who's the favorite of your children? Probably easier to answer for me than my favorite watch... 😂😂

[@AlexT536]

Love your channel and reviews. I own a collection of the usual suspects - rolex, omega, tag. However I am hooked on a Casio Oceanus S-100. A sub 500 USD watch, in titanium. Has a radio signal, solar quartz movement. It just works. No servicing or worry that it might get damaged. You should take a look, they are a refreshing perspective on watch making.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Glad to have you as a supporter 😃

[@Zephyrdaze1819]

I agree here about the Oceanus line. The no-nonsense beauty of the T200, for instance, has sold me on reliable, solar, radio controlled outfit. As seen with our author’s response, many folks either avoid mention of the Casio line or are simply unaware of it as a true competitor.

[@thanassisandrinopoulos5449]

Greetings from Greece! Yet another classy and well-rounded video. Thank you for your take on price categories and value evaluation and how brand names impact this. This video could very much be a useful reference ... negating the need for a formal marketing course (for this specific industry). Bravo!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks a ton 😊

[@griff5043]

Great videos Mike. I like all of my watches for different reasons, but I have a cheap Timex (35mm+dark blue face+white numerals and lettering) that always brings a smile to my face when I wear it with sweaters. I put a dark brown leather strap on it, and I can't believe how fluid it looks with the right outfit. Simplicity at its finest.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Good choice! .😊

[@NicholasSadlier]

At this stage, in terms of an 'informative' and 'thought-provoking' watch KZbin channel, I don't think there is any doubt that this is the 'best' one. (Oops, that word again). It really is a revelation.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

You are too kind. Don't know if I'm that good, but am happy that there are some that appreciate my approach 😃

[@davyhamadani2806]

I fell in love with my Frederique Constant Classics Runabout Men's Automatic Watch FC-303RMB5B6. it is simple and with "less is more" type of design. i paid 1,700 bucks for that watch but I love it. its my first Automatic Watch that don't mind wearing it anywhere.

[@uvalud]

honestly im so glad i found this channel. Been watching watch youtubers for years and i can say that this channel has by far the best and most enjoyable content amongst all i've seen. I cant help but binge-watch.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Wow, thanks. Glad you're on board 😀

[@dannysimenauer5745]

I love the way you point out what the brands are thinking with their designs and specs at different price points. Now that you point out the key design elements I know what to look for during my watch collecting journey. Thank you for the education.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Glad you found it helpful. Always remember to do your own research as well. 😊😊

[@foodsafetypragmatist]

Second video of yours I’ve seen today. I’m a fan. Appreciate your format. Will keep watching!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Happy to hear it - welcome aboard 😊😊

[@AriefLatif]

What a fantastically clear, concise and comprehensive breakdown of market segmentation strategies. This discussion goes way beyond various price points of time pieces. Love it. Subscribed and looking forward to seeing more.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Welcome aboard, thanks 😊

[@jkt3937]

This is a great channel, the topics are relevant and not repetitive with other watch channels, I like his insight into buyers’ habits, brand positioning, and seeing value in a wide variety of manufacturers. Keep it up

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Will try my best 😀

[@cheesychester9647]

Awesome video. Here's my little collection: - Omega Aqua Terra 38 white dial - Seiko SJE093 (62MAS) - MONTA Oceanking v3

[@rukkit8705]

How are you liking the ocean king compared to your other 2 watches?

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks... and... Awesome collection. Good choices 😃😃

[@bdcochran01]

1. Very insightful. 2. Like many people, I have stumbled through things over the years on my learning curve. Yes, I learned that quartz movements were more accurate and if service were required, much less expensive. When my girlfriend paid for a factory overhaul of her Rolex, I was blown away. 3. Eventually, I concluded the most visible part of the complete watch was the strap. I discussed this with a watch repairman. He said that the problem was that a leather band wore out too quickly. So during the week, he would wear a watch with a metal strap and a watch with a leather strap on a date or going to an event. Seemed like a very good idea. In December, I bought a new Bulova watch. By March, the leather strap was cracking. Ok. Switched to a Wenger military with a Speidel twistaflex band as the daily beater. Have 1/2 dozen watches with new leather straps available if I have to wear a suit or go out somewhere.

[@curtiswood8010]

Yet again, a fantastic and refreshing take on a subject that has been beaten to death by other youtubers. My "best" watch is probably my 1950s JLC 37.5mm 'jumbo' Cal. 479. No other watch gets as much wrist time, and no other watch sounds as good, JLC is JLC for a reason.

[@4747da]

I've never seen a video that tackles this question in this manner. What you're basically doing is giving us what we need and not what we want....in a good way! Since seeing this video, I know what to look for when comparing watches, I know what to ask. It narrowed down the process for me to a more focused one.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Just trying to put a different spin on what else is out there. Glad to hear it resonated 😊

[@DANNY35870]

Outstanding video!!! This was exactly the kind of video I've been looking for. It's been super difficult to look through the seemingly endless options and determine the best value for money watches (im not a fan of paying premiums for brand names). Recently bought a CW and my experience definitely seems to align with what you're saying, £1000-£1500 is a sweet spot for value and quality.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Glad you found it helpful 😊

[@richardlocke7264]

My best watch ...is the watch I'm currently wearing - "Love the one you're with." Enjoyed this episode -good job! Today it's a first Generation Seiko Orange Monster on a new orange rubber strap. It makes me smile... It doesn't hand wind, or have hacking seconds which is pretty quirky.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Cool watch sir ! 😃

[@swkohnle08]

I enjoy your videos Mike. My favorite watch that I keep wanting to wear everyday is also my least expensive in my collection. It's a Seiko SKX007. It doesn't have manual winding or hacking, it gains 5-8 seconds per day but I just don't care. I love the simplicity and the reliability of this dated design. With an upgraded bracelet, ceramic bezel insert, it is very comfortable to wear and enjoy.

[@SteveMullins-ov3fn]

Stumbled on your site, but it’s becoming one of my favourites. Big fan of TGV and the Urban Gentry, but your videos are also very enjoyable and informative, so thank you. Steve

[@charlesfaulkner4586]

A clear and convincing meta view of the financial mountain that is the watch making landscape. Thank you.

[@mpowacht]

Love your channel. The sheer amount of rapid-fire, insightful content is just amazing!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

kind of you, thanks 😃😃😃👍

[@darrellzayac3441]

I have never enjoyed content as much as yours. Your insight is exceptional not only from your knowledge of watches but the bigger picture of the industry as a whole. Well done.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Cool, thanks 😊😊😊😊😊

[@Docbyday]

You have a good pulse on what different consumers look for in a watch. I especially appreciated the discussion at the 4K level where a large part of the price tag is brand recognition. In a way it’s a bit like wine at $20, $50 and $200. Beyond a certain price it’s no longer about quality or winemaking but the prestige linked to a particular label or producer. Appreciate your thoughtful discourse as always, cheers!

[@jemand-anders]

This is the best and most precise chanel for watches. The argumentation is so precise and clear, I love it!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks 😀

[@kevinbeasley2302]

A crash course in watch price points. As a fairly new enthusiast, I learned quite a lot from this 'pro bono' video for watch lovers. Mike, you are an excellent teacher.

[@IbrahimJLong]

Thank you for sharing. Those are really excellent points. When it comes down to it, purchasing a watch, wearing a watch, and talking about one's watch is all part of the experience of owning one. Whether we pay $100 or $10,000, it's all about the meaning (and function) a watch brings to our lives.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks for stopping by - It's appreciated 😃

[@viscountpalmerston]

This has quickly become my favourite place on the internet for all things watches. Great work!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Wow, thanks! 😊

[@DrBoX89]

I really enjoy your channel and analysis and am glad I came across it. I find your insights very well-thought out and fair. I’m not the most knowledgeable watch enthusiast out there but I certainly know the things I like. Watches are fantastic because there really is something for everyone.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Happy to hear that my video was worth your time 😀

[@123simenHP]

I liked this video 😀 I also got say my favourite watch atm is my cheapest $100 white Casio watch. I use it at work (kindergarten where I often get sand on it) and I have 13! different NATO straps for it, so I change it daily. What I like about it over my much more expensive mechanical watches is that I don't care if it get broken as it so cheap that I can afford to buy a new one if needed. So far though I haven't seen a single scratch on it :) I do prefer having my more expensive mechanical watches around my wrist, but I hate always feeling like I have to be extra careful with it because I know the fixing price is more than the whole Casio watch.

[@dalesmith7250]

I own a digital Timex Expedition with a rotating bezel, which was the first watch I ever owned. I received it somewhere in the mid 90's when I was about 10 years old, and besides replacing the strap and battery, it still runs. Nothing on it is broken and even the Indiglo (yes, Indiglo) still works. I throw it on my wrist a few times a year just for nostalgia.

[@secordman]

I think I saw a video once on the Timex Expedition field watch and its similarity to the Hamilton Khaki. Of course the latter is more refined, automatic etc. But the increased refinement isn't that big a difference for me. So I stay with my Timex, so reliable and durable. I do have a mid-range Swiss but that's my luxury item that I hope lasts forever.😂

[@erencansenocak5898]

I must say I really like the perspective you bring to the watch market.

[@kentwong3818]

This is why I love getting watches slightly used or new via grey on chrono. Get a $4000usd watch for $3000 with warranty and new. Or local sales. Got my longines spirit zulu for $2300USD new from an AD

[@martinowl]

A really good overview of the watch market, showing what to expect at different price points. No over the top praise or criticism of brands, just clear advice & explanation of the reality how the market works. So many watch fans get hooked up on the specs, they become a bit blinkered when comparing models.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Glad you found it worth a watch 😊

[@adamcurpier]

I love how you explain this so clearly!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Glad it was helpful! 😃

[@Time_Passages]

It’s official. You are now my favorite KZbin channel. You asked about our best watch. That’s a tough question that I had not asked myself before. There are, in my opinion, 2 ways to define best watch. One is what you proposed in your video. In this case it would be my Speedy. The other is the story of the watch. In this case I t is the watch awarded to my grandfather for him being in the frontlines in the WWII campaign to liberate Italy from the Nazis. Also a chronograph, nowhere near as refined as a speedy, but it is the best watch in the world for me. 😊

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Happy to hear it - welcome aboard 😃

[@keithwodarski7081]

I thoroughly enjoy this watch channel. The topics, related facts, and comparisons discussed in the content of this channel, are excellent. This information is extremely helpful to me in my watch collecting journey. 👍

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Much appreciated! 😊

[@thisispw]

Great to see a Traska pop up on your B roll. The coating on them is outstanding and for the money, excellent. All the second hand ones I have seen and had hands on, are in fantastic condition.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Yeah - I threw it in as an easter egg, because I feel they have some relevant offers 😃

[@iurunner34]

This is one of the most informative videos on watches ive ever watched. You are a saint. Thank you

[@Pwj579]

Love that you highlighted Christopher Ward @8:00 for the $1,500 range. I've enjoyed my 2019 Christopher Ward C65 Trident GMT (Pepsi) Retro Diver 41mm watch for the past 4 years. I thought about getting YEMA Superman GMT, but still holding out for another Pepsi-bezel GMT that hits the mark in the $1,500-4,000 range. I had resisted getting the Tudor Black Bay GMT Peps, just because of price inflation by dealers. (similar to auto dealer adjustments)

[@jspeakman53]

Getting a BB58 a while back essentially killed my luxury watch itch which has surprised me. Fortunately for me and my wallet, Rolex in its current iteration never has had much appeal. I do like other luxury brand offerings, Cartier, JLC etc but not enough to purchase certainly at retail. Value for money rather than brand is increasingly important to me, and micro brands like Formex and Monta offering high quality watches with COSC movements at significantly lower cost, is where my interest now lies. My sense is the watch buyers market is going more in that direction, and many watchmakers vying for the lucrative Rolex segment will be left with a brand that is substantially overvalued.

[@leeevans8407]

This is now my favourite watch channel on KZbin 💯, such great content and done superbly, well done sir 👏👏👏 and my favourite watch atm a Speedy 3861 Hesalite it hasn’t left my wrist for weeks 😄

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Speedy for the win 👍👍

[@jordongrant2782]

Just found this channel and glad I did 👍 very clear cut and very informative.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Welcome 😊

[@CSiri-cc2hq]

I really enjoyed this video. Haven't seen someone so eloquent and precise about this. Thank you Sir.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thank you 😃

[@Cristianomare]

Sharp and reasonable! I agree with everything, there is only one thing I have to say: there are, in fact, watches around 500 built to last decades: Citizen!

[@A90maly]

Agreed. This brand doesn't get the respect it deserves... And they make some amazing watches.

[@snowman7234]

Honestly, your insights and perspective are incredibly useful and interesting for someone new to the hobby. Wonderful content, completely underrated creator. subbed!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Awesome! Thank you! 😊

[@djkazaz]

My best watch is a Swatch limited edition “James Bond Doctor No” model. It looks unbelievably cool and I went on eBay to buy a spare when my first one broke down. I hardly ever wear it, I just look at it. For perspective I also own a Datejust, a sea dweller, a fifty fathoms, a Longines Admiral (bought with my first salary) and assorted small brands.

[@brandoncox1900]

This channel is gold. Fascinating to hear depth and perspective from someone that doesn’t have to restrain from offending a brand they have a financial interest in. Move over Teddy Baldassarre and Hodinkee, there is a new up and coming channel for watch lovers.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks for the praise. Glad you found me 😃

[@StefanKar-o3z]

You are Fanstastic !! My best ia a Sinn U50 mother of Perl in Black U-boat bracelet, a Longines herirage classic in Blue leder and a Metal G-Shock 5600 . More than enough fron gut watches.... u are so right.... its all matters of perspective.... keep up the gut work and your open opinions! Thanks for the opinions and video's! Stefan Germany

[@rolfslickers4938]

My dress watch is a Nomos Ludwig, my “best watch” is a Tudor Black Bay 54. Having a small wrist, it’s the first diver that really seems to fit.

[@pete5534]

Beginning almost fifteen years ago I began collecting a series of Victorinox quartz watches. The design language (sorry) of the day spoke to me - I still enjoy them all. I purchased all but one from a grey market discount site at an average of 50% MSRP. Being quartz movements they all do a great job of keeping time, are extremely robust, and I feel (at the price point) have offered good value. I also purchased a Victorinox mechanical piece from this site. Its retail price was a shade over $1000, I believe I paid about $400. This watch, regardless of how much I wear (or store) it runs at exactly +6 seconds per day, always has. I get a kick out of the fact that I paid less than $500 for a watch that has never been serviced, and is not coddled, has throughout its lifetime ticked away at a rate that’d surpass the accuracy of many pieces costing thousands more. Victorinox is a very quiet and humble brand, however at the price I paid, I feel as though they’ve all served me extremely well. For years I’ve been tempted by Omega, Longines, Oris, Grand Seiko, and others, yet so far these temptations have yet to materialize.

[@metalslug26]

Very well presented discussion and arguments. The only feature I'll look for in a watch at 500 dollars, is if it has a sapphire crystal. Movement, water resistant etc, is not important to me because 1 I don't wear my watches in the water and 2 the movement is fairly basic. Now at 1k-1500, I look for a design I like. And if I like a design that much, I'll look at other dial variations of the same model and potentially buy the same watch but with a different dial design or color. I have 3 Seiko Samurais and 3 Oris Chronoris models, one being a variation of the chronograph model.

[@eurovnik]

Top notch video as always. The main issue with whether a watch will "last forever" isn't the build quality, it's parts availability. There are many watches from the 50s-70s which are unserviceable because there are no parts left, e.g. Longines. Swatch Group won't touch them. If you send one in for service they send it back with a voucher for $100 off a new Longines. Makes sense for them to force the customer to buy a new watch rather than service an old one. So I'd be astonished if a current Zulu GMT will last a lifetime - Longines only guarantees parts availability for 15 years after the specific model is discontinued. Things will get worse in future compared to vintage watches as the Swatch Group now refuse to supply parts to independent watchmakers which means no "New Old Stock" parts will be popping up on ebay in 20 years time. Sellita SW200s are a much better bet for long term serviceability - Sellita supplies parts to independents and there are so many SW200-powered watches out there that there will also be lots to cannibalise for parts if needed.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

True - agree. Swatch is not big on stocking old parts. Planned obsolesence clearly isn't just an IT/tech/apple & samsung thing.... 😊

[@GK-yr2ru]

Such a thoughtful analysis of the proponents and components of watches at various price points. Well done. Subscribed.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks - Welcome aboard 😀

[@theaussiewhinger]

Great discussion. Very insightful. Glad to see Longines and Tudor being discussed as competitors. The former has a much longer history, more diverse range of designs, while the other has the a Rolex connection and pretty safely designed offerings. Longines at its lower end has lower quality and finishing than Tudor. But comparing their more comparably-specced models, they actually compete very favourably.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks 😃

[@haping1]

I get the pont. And you're right, the overpriced Limited Edition Seiko's or brands like Tudor or Oris are not that much better as a $1.500 watch. But you forget the chrono's or high complicated movements like a minute repeater. I can live with the fact that they are more expensive. Also watches from small watchmakers. They are so different than the established order has to offer. They are for watch enthousiasts rather than for someone who just wants a "good" watch. I would spend my money on those, rather than a Tudor. Love my Hanhart MKI

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

True - once you go to the higher end, complications do to a large extent justify a higher price point 😃

[@TapasChakrabarty-j7r]

Always wait for your new videos. So much to learn from you. Always feel you have guided me from being ripped.regards from India

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Great to hear! Cheers 😊

[@nadgeemark]

I appreciate your unique approach and logical perspective on watches and the watch industry. Thank you.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Very welcome - thanks for watching 😃😃

[@MohammedKhaled-ju7gy]

Many of the old veteran watch KZbin is sucking upto Rolex and Tudor and that’s he only content I see on their channels but newer younger channels with focus on contents like these is what made me get into watches. Good content.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks for the feedback 😀

[@MS28227]

Love this channel!! My favorite value was ches in my collection are watches that I purchased years ago - Seiko SARB 033, 035 and 037. I have more expensive watches in my collection and these actually get the most wear. Thanks for all of your great videos!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

You're welcome and thanks a ton for watching 😀

[@cesar314]

Very well described! I agree with your price categories, and I appreciate the clearheader assessment of maker intent in each. Very difficult to find others discussing this frankly, thank you.

[@christopherdiggles6533]

Great analysis it can really be applied in those price contexts. The sweet spot appears to be that $1500 range if one is looking for function minus the bells and whistles. I recently purchased a Marathon GSAR which totally meets every criteria you mentioned in that $1500 range: - solid workhorse parts, no nonsense construction unpretentious in its claims to be anything other than a tough useful tool. Therein lies its magic no glamour no tricks doesn’t turn into a pumpkin at midnight.

[@d.kashani]

I have a 2 watch collection. I have a seiko spb143 and a seiko sje093 both mentioned here haha. The 143 is such an attractive watch to (and good value) while the sje is beautifully finished and just spotless. Both watches are running within +/- 2 sec. Before buying the sje I considered many other watches (BB54, P39, IWC spitfire, GS sbgw231) but I wanted something a little more unique and not so mass produced as this was my first “luxury” watch. As a seiko fan the sje was for me and was an “upgrade” to my spb but nothing can replace my 143.

[@daveLin104]

I have the 143 and keep looking at the 093 😂 suprised you still love the 143 even though owning the upgrade. I think need to just stick to the 143.... do you wear 143 on the bracelet?

[@d.kashani]

@@daveLin104 haha they’re just two different watches that share the same dna. i think the 143 is honestly a better fit for my wrist and i might be the only person with both that prefers the 143. I like the white indices and thicker bezel. what i wish i had was the finishing and thinner movement of the 093 but in the 143 design. I wear the 143 mostly on MN strap and sometimes on natos. i might sell the 093 for P39 but we’ll see. It is a very special watch but a little small for my liking.

[@michaelho4771]

Best watch channel! Well obviously very subjective but I prefer this format over the louder voices in this space that are more animated. Just a good honest discussion

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Lol... 😂 Not subjective at all. If you say it, it's the truth 😂😂😂

[@wkanost]

My best watch is my 1982 Seiko speedtimer. I bought it when I was 19 years old and still have it. A couple of years ago I had it serviced and the gasket replaced. It runs like a new watch and I wear it every week.

[@klausnielsen7102]

I like your perspectives and analytic style that applies to a number of other markets. I worke in the high-end audio segment and it’s very much alike.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Don't get me started on speaker cables, open back headphones and tube amps....... 😂

[@markhagan3653]

I've worn My TW Steel TW74 for 15 years. It's never let me down and looks great. I understand what makes a great watch and just started to venture into this space buying the Omega Speedmaster 'moonwatch' but it just goes to show you that watches are emotional objects that even under $500 can last a long time.

[@AJB1702]

Always enjoy these super informative videos; the conversational format works a treat. Cheers!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

cheers 😃

[@douglascheesman]

This channel rocks…maybe I’m basic, but I just picked up a secondhand Speedmaster for less than $4K…to me, this might be the best $4000 watch on the market today.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Speedmaster is always a good choice 😃😃

[@robbied4766]

I acquired a Seiko SRP automatic for $169 and of course, it's lovely. I do wish for more (screw down crown/bracelet) but it's a beautiful sport model and looks lovely. $500 can buy you a lot if you look carefully. I do love your videos and thank you for making these.

[@Hrethgir]

My "best" is probably one of the custom builds I've done. 40mm Panerai-style case, NH35 movement inside, sterile white dial, black second hand and broad arrow hours hand, orange minutes hand, and orange rubber strap.Went thru at least 4 or 5 hand sets before I got the right combo.

[@juliusapriadi]

I love your down to earth approach - this video can really help navigating the wonderful world of watches.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

glad you found it worth your time 😃

[@fluffycolt5608]

I bought a Cronos 2,000m diver for £150 the other day. Its awesome - 1s per day accuracy - and makes the bottom end of this list redundant.

[@karlsenula9495]

Think hard about what you want, do your research, buy what you love and you will rarely regret your decisions.

[@prospect_joe9813]

I've bought a few 1,500 watches from smaller brands and their build quality was lower than chinese homage watches. I haven't been disappointed with Swatch group offerings, however.

[@johanvandersandt8904]

The question should be what is the best watch for YOU as its not a one size or style fits all situation. This can be infinitely analyzed on a spread sheet comparing endless variables but the long and the short of it is buy what you like and screw what other people think. I have a number of quartz watches and they are all excellent in some way or another. I dont have to wind or set them everyday so that's a heck of a bonus. Some I take to the gym, other I go hunt with but they all have their place! Hope you have a fantastic weekend Mike!

[@experience19811891]

The best watch is the one which connect you to people you love. I have two of my grandfathers watches, may he rest in peace. A small Fortis toolwatch and a Eterna. Great video and explanation!

[@Yamayamauchiman]

I only have one watch atm, but I'm planning to own 8 over the course of 20 years. So my first watch is a grand seiko sbga415 spring drive. When talking about that price range, differentiation is indeed the name of the game and the spring drive fully delivers on that front. I ordered (should arrive within 2 months) a CW Bel Canto purple dial last year and I can hardly wait for it to arrive. In the future I'm hoping to buy Blancpain villeret quantieme complet, vacheron constantin overseas chrono, ulysse nardin maxi marine diver, H. Moser & Cie Pioneer centre seconds (H moser along with grand seiko offer the best movement value for money in this price range imo), Speake Marin openworked and finally A lange & sohne zeitwerk. I'm hoping this collection will be varied, colourful and appreciated by other watch enthusiasts.

[@jerrycooper171]

I think the 1.5k range is the most interesting. I.e., Zelos, Eagle T2. Titanium, LJP motor, tons of lume, 100m w/r, compromised slightly on the strap, but how many watches in one is it? Diver, beater, holiday/travel, gym, night (yes, I have a night watch, and that's a specific function), general day-to-day. That's a lot of functionality in 1. I could get rid of 5 watches! Take a look. I'm not connected to them , nor do I own one...yet!

[@darkeye77]

Love this video. I very much agree with what you’ve said here. The “rational” price point is the $1500 watch (well, other than getting a cheap Casio and pocketing the other $1470). You really have to start wanting the reputation of the brand to go up. This was something I had to understand before I bought my first Omega. It wasn’t going to make financial sense spec wise, I had to specifically want an Omega.

[@kateandrews8506]

Excellent video. Subscribed. I'm in the 1500USD category. Some very nice everyday watches at this price point. My Sinn 556A-RS is probably my favourite so far.

[@frankc3834]

Always a delight to hear your unique perspective on these price points. Bravo.

[@almostblue39]

Without question the one of the best watch channels on KZbin...and I watch most of them.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Very kind - Thank you 😃

[@tozzifan]

This is good guidance to start from, providing reference points that allow to make sense of market, brands and price brackets. Wish I had tit a year ago when I entered the hobby. Each of us adds his own biases and preferences on top of that ground. I'm lucky that I don't give that much value to brands, this will probably allow me to collect more and spend less. I resonate with other things, like movements that represent(ed) a technical advance, history and my quirky taste 😅

[@ViolinistWilliam]

Great video. I just bought the Breitling Pistachio B09 Chrono for 5K on eBay. Please tell me I didn’t lose my tail on this one… just love the watch. A little nervous since it’s my first manual wind. Would love to hear your thoughts on this model by Breitling.

[@underachievingwatchcollect1878]

Nice 👍

[@HorizontalThoughts]

Great watch actually!