Hands On Ming 17.09 Blue - Is it Time to Buy a Ming? Are Ming Watches Any Good - Independent Watches

Hands On Ming 17.09 Blue - Is it Time to Buy a Ming? Are Ming Watches Any Good - Independent Watches
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[@duncanchiu3659]

I own the 17.09 in burgundy and it's quite a stunning piece aesthetically. Ming doesn't disappoint in aesthetics

[@LudekVokac]

It's always nice to see a review of Ming, they don't get reviewed on KZbin very often. It's nice to hear an opinion on the watch from an experienced collector like you. I'm one of the lucky and very happy owners of the 17.09, I chose the Burgundy version and I really love it. It's a watch that catche attention of other - albeit mainly watch enthusiasts. I even wrote a pretty lenthy review of the watch for one of my local facebook watch enthusiast groups, because peope were so curious about it. Well, if I may, here is my lenghty view of the watch, translated into English: What caught my attention with Ming was the story of the brand. A “crazy: guy who loves watches, takes pictures of them for years, collectst them, suddenly decides to build his own watch/brand. In Malaysia. That's so cool. I'd love to create a watch of my own someday (I just do some watch-moding nowadays, but I have further ideas), but I don't have the knowledge, the skills and probably not even the courage yet. Ming Thein obviously had to have those. Anyway, the story is one thing, but if there wasn't anything else that would draw me towards Ming, I wouldn't buy the watch, of course. But, obviously, I was intrigued by the design, which is very distinct, unusual and unique. I used the opportunity to buy the 17.09, which was available for limited time, not only as a limited series (you've had to order the watch within 10 minutes and you've been guaranteed one - that's what Chris is referint to here - I, fortunately, had no credit card problems) to jump on board. When the watch arrived, I was intrigued by the design even more than from the pictures. In this day and age where many watches look like other watches, this is just something different, while still within the confines of a relatively classic design. It's surprising how many things have been thought of differently here, you'd think it couldn't possibly work, but it just does. The only thing that is relatively usual here is the case itself, which is simply a classic circular shape. But beyond that, everything is different. Just look at the lugs: yes, you can just love them or hate them. I love them, they're just cool, different, their own thing, and at the same time they add a little bit of expressiveness to the watch, making it visually a bit more prominent on my 6,5 inch wrist, I think. Yet the case is 38mm in diameter, absolutely perfect for me and I would say it wears like a regular 38mm watch too. This is perhaps also due to the relatively thicker bezel, that has a nice rounded shape, so it doesn't look bulky and hulking as it might otherwise. The lugs are just the beginning, though. Then there's the dial itself. The burgundy red colour isn't nearly as bold and "wild" as one would expect, which is good, because it gives the relief on the inside of the dial a room to stand out. The outer part is smooth and rises above the inner one, which adds a certain dynamism and plasticity to the dial. Indicies are absent on the dial as they're painted on the underside of the crystal. It's kind of crazy, again just something different that might be weird. But it isn't weird. It works great. The clear outer line with the indices running out towards the centre is beautiful, the way they've incorporated the brand logo here instead of the index at 3 o'clock deserves applause. It's just well thought out and of course it fits perfectly with the skeletonised hands, which may look a little chunky at first glance, but on second glance you realise their lightness. The whole thing glows beautifully at night, so you can recognize Ming "a hundred times over", you probably won't see anything else like it. There's also no seconds hand. It's an unusual solution, but I think it's not only for aesthetic reasons. Because it would probably not be easy to add a second hand to this design. But at the same time, along with the nice flowing design, it gives the watch such an incredibly calm atmosphere. Unexpectedly calm considering the dial is "red". I'm glad I ordered the red version, the blue would have been even more serene, perhaps it captures the essence of this model better, but the red makes it a bit more special for me and it was also a chance to add this colour to my collection. I'm sure you know the feeling of looking at a watch on your wrist and watching the seconds hand float around the dial. How hypnotic it can be, how you can enjoy it. Well, there's nothing like that here, which actually makes it all the more interesting. If you want to watch the hands move, you really have to stop and stare for a while. The need to focus on the minute hand instead of the second hand kind of slows everything down and calms everything down. This watch really makes you aware of time. It does have a bit of a catch though, which is basically the legibility and adjustability of the watch. The indices here are in five-minute increments, and due to the thickness of the lines and hands, the minutes themselves are a bit difficult to estimate. Its not a watch for those who require an increcibly accurate reading of the time. I'm not among these, but it bothers me a bit when I set the time - if I want the setting to be accurate, I just have to wait for the next five-minute mark. But again, it shows the philosophy of the watch - calm, relax, we're not in a hurry. The movement is related to that. It's Schwarz-Etienne's rebuilt Sellita SW330-2, which is a relatively common office-GMT movement. Here, however, it's stripped of the two hands and redesigned so that the hour hand can be moved independently in hourly increments. Great for travel for quick local time setting, but also for setting the watch itself. The size of the crown is just right for my fingers, but when operating (except when settin the hour hand - that hs nice feedback), it feels a bit too soft, like without any feedback. Some people like it that way, I prefer to feel a bit of movement action under my fingers. A few more details worth mentioning: the leather strap by Jean Rousseau is beautiful, and was a little unyielding at first, but quickly conformed to my hand - which gives hope for a good combination of comfort and durability. I really like the curved springbars and the alcantara inner lining, which makes the strap really comfortablle. The buckle is unique too. Massive at first glance, lith at the second, when you look at it from the side: it has the profile of those skeletonized hands. Beautiful. On the other hand, it's still just leather, and I'm generally not the biggest fan of leather - so I'm waiting for Ming to come up with a new metal bracelet, something they've been promising since the introduction of this model, but so far it's not available. With it, I think the watch will get an even more interesting touch: it's such a mix of sporty and formal watch now, the move will help push it a bit into that sporty concept for everyday wear. What I haven't mentioned yet is the craftsmanship. For me, for the price (about 2,000 Swiss francs excluding tax), it's great. The bezel is beautifully polished, the same goes for the top of the lugs, it connects these parts nicely together. Yeah, scratches are going to be the order of the day here, on the other hand, the bezel seems to have a certain ability to mask them. The sides of the case and legs are brushed, with a very fine horizontal pattern. There's agai a nice detail on the underside of the watch, the protruding outer corners of the lugs are actually chamfered, so they don't stick into one's hand. It shows that someone really tought about the design and execution in detail. So. The Ming 17.09 is definitely not a watch for everyone, but I'm thrilled with it. Its shortcomings are basically related to the overall concept of the watch, so it doesn't bother me in any way and I like the whole unique nature of the watch.

[@johnnidhiry5683]

I own the h41 diver and I'm very pleased with it. I also owned the 17.03 GMT and sold it to a cousin of mine who really wanted it. The watches are built well and accurate. Both run/ran easily within COSC. I like the watches despite the recent issues, which let's face it, happens to all watch companies at some point. 100% agree on the ordering system as I absolutely hate it. Ming's Special Projects Cave makes some truly unique pieces with more complicated movements, definitely worth a look.

[@jazzman5598]

Nope. I almost always agree with your opinions Chris. But about the movement…….bulk purchase at a great price and Ming is going to use them up, regardless, imho. Super vid. You are on the top of my watch channel list…..you and Fed, lol 😂

[@themoyouknoww]

Glad these have come down in price. I bought a 17.06 copper for a pretty good deal and now am selling it since the blue dials are even cheaper

[@kellymcenroe2046]

It’s strikingly beautiful and simple, a piece of Art.

[@ralphimbrogno9239]

I love Ming watches Thanks Chris.

[@datilderek1]

Great review, Chris. I love a lot of the Ming design details, especially the dial and hands. The legibility is amazing, and what I look for in all of my watches However, the high price, small case size and lack of second hand are all deal breakers for me.

[@DavidDatura]

I like Ming watches a lot. What I don’t like is the general difficulty of availability when it comes to their timepieces…by design! I find that mean, with many people unable to get hold of them as a result. Reminds me of Rolex, in a bad way.

[@avarmauk]

You can buy them online, just you need to be ready. Fastest fingers first. I managed to get two like this. It’s definitely not like Rolex in terms of availability. Rolex is much much worse and I feel every ounce of your frustration here.

[@mrbluecatone]

I love MING, I received in May the 17.09 burgundy, the watch is better than expected, the finish in my opinion is great, better than a Vincent Calabrese Ottica I own. I love their design and philosophy, they also make very limited production of watches with great movements. I also like the way they are selling their watches, you really need to want them and put an effort to get them and when they are gone, they are gone.

[@SoCalWatchReviews]

Great video brother, I need a Ming in the collection!!

[@Jason-hv4eu]

Good review! I like some of it. I don’t like the lack of a seconds hand or minute markers. The jumping hour hand is neat but the misalignment issue would be annoying.

[@MrZanzibar123]

Love the look: total Tron watch.

[@richardman28]

You are absolutely right that they have created an identity with their design and dial. Instantly recognisable. The reason why I decided to purchase one...was lucky with my purchasing process, I did the home work and phoned my bank beforehand. Designed by ming thiem, a Malaysian photographer and designer. The watch is very well made, beautiful design and use the materials for the price point. However, does not get much wrist time as there is something about it I don't get on with. Don't know what it is but will keep it due to the quality and design of the watch especially as mentioned at that price point. As preference changes in this hobby, it might appeal to me later in my collecting.

[@Newerasamearea]

I reckon its the size and strap width...bit feminine. I get that 38/39mil is back in vogue but it doesnt suit the futuristic design. Would have been better as a 40/41 with a 22m strap width.

[@eahmhelmoa]

I own 4 Ming watches at this point, 3 already delivered (blue and burgundy 17.09 and the mighty 20.11 mosaic which I just received) and waiting for the 4th one next year (the 22.01 GMT). I absolutely like these watches and the mosaic is a masterpiece that sits in haute Horology category. The buying process is a bit hard but when you think about it and get used to it, it makes sense given the fact that they were very much hyped and many people were just buying to resell. I guess now as the prices are going down (resale) the flippers will be less and true collectors will get better chance.

[@Dranreb865]

Hi Ahmed, you still have your mings or gave them away already?

[@eahmhelmoa]

@@Dranreb865 still have them. Never sold any piece so far. Honestly my favorite is the last one the 22.01 gilt

[@babzpeter1]

Funny enough I tried to purchase this when it came out believe it or not I tried that hard I got charged for 38 of them and I got my card cancelled it took me a whole month to get my card back but I absolutely love these mings what are my friends and reserves 1 purchased it and now it's only to wait for me thank you for the review really thoroughly enjoyed it and I say to all my friends stay sexy

[@dominicc737]

Like the design but don’t like the buying process. If they change that process then I would be interested in a purchase.

[@jeffrx]

Not my style but an appreciate the uniqueness.

[@VersedNJ]

If you can get one from Ming MSRP, OK, I'd pull the string if I had the funds, but not at $3,500 plus, Tim Write got one in Burgundy, like that color, Ming being a special design, would prefer his color. But you get what you can get. Misaligned hands on a two hand watch is unacceptable, but would be willing to send it back for adjustment, on their dime including shipping.

[@typebflieger]

Ming is definitely a unique brand with a strong identity. If I let the collector mind take over, I’d say I want one, but if I look into my heart, I’d say their watches leave me cold.

[@zman8340]

This. All I see is movado

[@Newerasamearea]

@@zman8340 movado looks like a department store watch. This looks straight out of the tron movie ...and has enough watch geek movement kudos to keep purists happy.

[@DaveMGmovies]

Great watch and review -- but I'm getting increasingly weary of hearing about companies who make stuff you can't buy. I never get involved with the 'elite' scarcity drivel so unless they satisfy demand and make it easy for me to spend my hard-earned cash then I'm never going to be a customer. I can't be bothered to jump through the hoops and I won't pay a cent over retail.

[@jamesminshall4601]

I may be wrong but my understanding is Ming designs them and then leaves the making to others, that makes them a micro brand at best. I don’t like that they don’t have photos of the product before you buy it. I really don’t like all the unpleasantness around trying to buy one and the fact that you have to pay for it so long before it comes, if they go bust you could loose all your money and then there is the issue off long term product support. The actual watches look amazing, I love that they look like a Ming, the hands are beautiful and having no second hand on a dress watch is a nice touch, the dials look clean but interesting and the cases have some lovely shapes.

[@janihellberg6911]

I like the look of these, but if it doesen't have a second hand it could be quartz and lot cheaper.

[@juniorjohnson5961]

I'm confused Does it actually say Ming on the dial ?

[@a_z.tazzzfan8497]

Visually, I like their simplicity. Personally, I believe this model would look out of whack if it had a Seconds hand.

[@dans.8217]

The jumping hour is nice but seems a little useless if it only goes forward. Although it seems well made and well designed but I just don’t get the hype surrounding it.

[@chia-mingyang5804]

It doesn't have a date so even going more than twelve hours forward won't cause any problem.

[@Zotrax1946]

Really nice, yet with no seconds hand or indication- not for me🤷🏼‍♂️

[@willbrink]

I like their design language for sure. The size does not work for, looks too small on the wrist shot in this vid for my tastes. A 40-41mm Ming would be on my short list for sure. Life is too short for small watches :)

[@arsonfireuk]

The lack of a sweeping second hand kills it for me. Lovely watches though

[@smokingbeetles5793]

Don't think these should be in luxury category so soon

[@morgan97475]

Interesting looking watches but they just don't do anything for me.

[@mondrayuk]

There is a surplus supply of 17.09s both blue and burgundy dial versions. It is possible to get them for under $3,000. The movement being rather good. The jump hour hand is like a true GMT but only one way and there is a ghost position. For medium and long term, may be worth while get one. All the other 17.00 series are limited supply so the prices are high. I had the Burgundy one, loved it but never wore it so I exchanged it for a Tudor BB 58 925 silver. I have kept my 17.03 GMT with Grade 2 Titanium bracelet and 3 leather straps together with a changing tool; complete kit. I shall never part with that one! Ming are brilliant and so unique but many speculators are flipping these for huge profit and when the models are first launched; they are sold out in 20 minutes!

[@zillsburyy1]

do these still have problems?

[@WatchChris]

I think some still do...

[@PGoh440]

What are you talking about problems? You are referring to one model that had issues no have since been fixed. That’s was like almost 2 years ago at this point.

[@WatchChris]

@@PGoh440 some of the 17.09 still have this issue not all were fixed and the problem doesn't always manifest it's self immediately

[@elias6806]

I think you have a hair on your camera 😉

[@tsma24]

They should keep doing this “digital” simple look th atas not a digital watch.

[@chriscraft999]

Looks like a swatch. People will buy anything.

[@zafozafo7481]

really !!!! 12 minutes review and did not show the back of the watch ?

[@geving4856]

I'm not impressed with the watch...certainly not for $3,000

[@bl00dline360]

I would prefer an isotope brand watch they also have a lot of original designs good quality and fair prices

[@dallastimebandits]

Ming? More like mvmt

[@yogiyoda]

3k and it can't tell you seconds or the date. People are crazy

[@semperbauhaus]

Horrible.

[@sobeit712]

Pretentious and boring