I Tried To Send This Watch Back.....But The Owner REFUSED!

[@Zephyrdaze1819]

Loved the backstory to this review. Kudos to the manufacturer for sticking his neck out.

[@TheDonCucaracho]

Yeah it takes balls to release something to the world and read randos on the internet comment on your hard work. Definitely kudos Mr Watchmaker if you ever read this

[@alastairheptonstall7982]

Agreed, it’s great to see someone looking for feedback on how to make the next one better.

[@varonchiri4309]

Dear Jody, Thank you for the honest review on my 1st timepiece! As you said, some parts may not be a favorite feature of some watch enthusiasts. But I will try to meet worldwide watch lover's needs! Since it was made for the everyday watch, if it has many fun features, I thought it is not suitable as a daily watch. So I designed it to go well with every look. But put BLAZER's unique details. Such as higher 2nd chaptering :) In fact, designing the chaptering to one level higher is not just a fun factor, but there is a hidden reason! The dial has a sunburst finish, so if it reflects light a lot, it will shine too much. Therefore, in order to reduce the area of ​​​​rehaut that reflects light in the dial, the outer chapter ring was designed one step higher. And I agree that the BLAZER might be boring to someone! However, I think it would be very good as a daily watch suitable for both casual and dressy looks with 10 ATM, lightweight, comfortable bracelet and reliable movement. I do appreciate your review again! And as you said, I am open to any opinion on the 1st timepiece! If anyone has any opinions about BLAZER and the brand, please feel free to contact [e-mail]! Any comments are highly valued and will mean a lot to us! Thank you and best luck to all watch lovers!! At last, once again congratulations on your achievement! Many watch enthusiasts, including myself, are amazed and inspired by your achievements.

[@brotherandrew3393]

At least you told us about the level of water resistence. Thank you for your answer.

[@dimast007]

My compliments on your watch, sir! I really appreciate the style and the honesty of your work. I believe that a watch like yours is destined to succeed, because it has much more thought, character and soul put into it than the wave of Chinese brands has to offer.

[@varonchiri4309]

@@brotherandrew3393 You are welcome! I am proud to make a water resistance of 10ATM with a thickness less than 10.0mm.

[@pasquale78]

First and foremost much respect to anyone who has the courage to start a watch band, and as such let the watches be critiqued by an influencer like Jody. Second I think the watches could be better if you narrowed down the target audience. What I mean by that is that the watches look like they do not know what they want to be. Are they sports watches, or dress watches? They have elements from both. The clasp is sporty but the high polished case and midlinks shout dress. I my very humble opinion a butterfly clasp will suit this watch style very well, albeit it looses some of the functionality you get with a glide lock clasp. (which is clearly a Rolex invention and to be honest it makes the watch seem like a generic Chinese AliExpress brand) Sorry for the negativity, and I hope you do very well at selling watches. So all the best and luck!

[@varonchiri4309]

@@dimast007 I do appreciate to warm saying :) And I want to make better and cooler watches. It is my long-term goal to create masterpieces recognized by all watch enthusiasts!

[@cedarcanoe]

To be honest, I don’t see anything wrong here. Excellent quality, understated dial design (like the PP Calatrava), the nicest bracelet I have seen on a Kickstarter watch, and a perfect case finishing.

[@iamducatti2276]

I agree with you.. perfectly beautiful watch.. I think he's taking the hole "niggles for Clasp" a little too far... C'mon.. every video Clasp, Clasp, Clasp... give it a rest already..

[@G-rig6969]

Yeah it's a nice watch, a little bit boring (read conservative), the bracelet is beautiful. In do agree the clasp doesn't suit but the alternatives are all that same generic style anyway. The crown looks a bit chunky. It's just whether people like it overall and would buy for that price. Pretty solid effort though.

[@MrCuckoobox]

I agree to a point. It is a nice watch. Because of the "Expectations", yes, there was, No WOW. Would it be a watch that I would buy, probably not. Not because I don't like it, but because there are plenty of other watches that are not in my collection that I like, that are better value and have more features at the same price point.

[@trooper427ss]

I like the bracelet.

[@theoneandonlybosable]

It does nothing interesting at all IMO. Kinda par for the course and boring.

[@ironichumorist]

living in japan i am happy to see a watchmaker enter the market from some place other than japan and china. looking forward to this gentleman refine his product and carry on.

[@romanmichaelhamilton8729]

Yes, can live without another CCP-made product.

[@ZCherish]

I, for one, enjoy a nice preamble! I always like the behind-the-scenes stories. Sometimes with some drama involved 👀 but that was quite respectable of the brand owner. That's the type of story we want from brands, not the usual "disrupting the industry" schtick. Hats off.

[@chasehprice]

That is a great watch. Classic elegance. That watchmaker has an excellent sense of proportion. Immediately I saw true art and originality. Bravo.

[@viennakrakatoaleipzignumbers]

Looks quite excellent to me, mate. Finishing is great, the Calatrava-inspired look is incredible (I prefer it over something like the OP for example), and the dimensions are just right. You're right about the glide lock though, something like one of those concealed clasps would be perfect.

[@jessISaRicePrincess]

Not saying you're wrong friend but imo OP is rolex best watch and this is from a rolex "hater" omega "fanboy" i get your point about this watch though looks good to me and I'm quite the fan of turquoise

[@viennakrakatoaleipzignumbers]

@@jessISaRicePrincess Agree with you, I feel the OP and the Explorer 1 (especially the vintage 1016 or the 214270) are Rolex's best watches. I just personally like the Calatrava a bit more

[@davescommonplacebook9374]

That turquoise dial looks great

[@rubencangelosi193]

In my opinion the light blue version is just beautiful. Sober and refined with a modern touch that makes it rather garish and very attractive. The bracellet looks very delicate, and I really like it, it add a nice touch.

[@diogeneslantern18]

My man, sober and refined is the complete opposite of garish.

[@kabdu68]

Good one, Jody. I used to import watches from Korea and I invariably found them to be better quality than their Chinese counterparts and the manufacturers way more straightforward and business like to deal with. I hope we see more from them at this level.

[@tommym1966]

I'm quite surprised. Thought this might be one to avoid but on the whole I really liked it. Understated but I really liked the look of the bracelet and the case finishing and the tuquoise dial really caught the light well. A very promising first effort and sounds like a guy who will take feed back positively and incorporate it into future offerings. Glad he let you go ahead with the review.

[@TheJubeJube3939]

Yeah the back story to this is greatly appreciated. We don’t usually get that level of transparency from a brand. Also, lots respect to the owner of Varon Chiri for doing so! Definitely look forward to what they have coming in future. I think the teal/turquoise is brilliant but I’m not willing to spend that when I can get a Mandala as you mentioned. Great video thanks again!!

[@gyrfalcon7332]

The Mandala is $845 on their website.

[@SlabBulkhead166]

@@gyrfalcon7332 Australian dollars, mine came out to about 600 USD which is still a fair bit more than this one though.

[@TheJubeJube3939]

@@gyrfalcon7332 yeah it was more so a reference to pre-order pricing

[@Mikiel-dh4bg]

Still, I feel that this Varon-Chiri has a more classy look than a Mandala.

[@ralphus555]

Very fair and sympathetic review. It's really not a bad looking watch (with decent specs), but the price is definitely prohibitive for what you are getting...

[@MonstaAU]

I think it does bring something a bit different to the table, so I am all for it. Certainly a few things could be changed a little, but it's certainly not terrible. A different clasp, less polish on hands/indices, domed sapphire. Quick-release on the bracelet is a huge plus.

[@mdmohitulhaque8648]

Ishtuk jugia baichung vutia?

[@siclusiferx]

Beg to differ.. More polish more bling and more presence. The easy they did it is very good.. The dial should be worked on and better ideas done.. As well as the crown to be made a bit smaller.

[@MonstaAU]

@@siclusiferx when everything is polished, you have less contrast and it can be harder to read. Having the rebates on the indices brushed and the main surface polished helps a whole lot, especially on a lighter coloured shiny dial (ie sunburst). I'd agree that polished on darker dials works well. Unfortunately the black dial version of this watch was just boring. A texture would have lifted it immensely.

[@squarestanley]

Gotta be honest, I actually dig this one. I think it looks very nice - priced well, good finishing, nice bracelet, workhorse movement. Could/would be a great every day watch for someone.

[@carllange3950]

I find the watch’s appearance pleasing and would consider purchasing one, but I already have plenty of other watches of this style. I usually think of 40-42mm as my preferred watch diameter, but recently purchased a limited edition Islander with similar dimensions to this watch (and the same movement). It is very pleasant to wear. These “smaller” watches are still larger than the watches I was happily wearing in the ‘80s & ‘90s.

[@pktsqr]

Although not all elements of this design speak to me, unique place/culture specific references are extremely my thing. For instance, I eagerly put in a pre-order for the upcoming Houtman Murchison Sport watch because I loved how each model connected in some way to Australia. I'm not from Australia, and at this rate will probably never visit, but that intentional approach to design is really appealing. SO, in this case I'm intrigued by the thought put into the branding/logo and that unique Korean design on the outer ring. Enough to go check out the Kickstarter at launch and see what's up.

[@BoozewithNick]

Jody, thank you so much for the extended intro, specifically for pulling back the curtain on the inner world of the KZbin watch influencer. You are the first of the top-tier watch influencers- not exclusively luxury-focused- (Teddy, Jory, Dave, Chris, Avg Bros) who has taken the time to show the peasants the inner working of how a KZbin watch review comes to be. I am sure I am not the only one who appreciates the transparency, both on principle, and from an educational perspective.

[@noelc279]

I think these look really nice; kudos to Varon Chiri for building a watch that immediately taps at the door of luxury and style. Somewhere in the back of my mind I honestly was reminded of Grand Seiko while watching the video. Let us hope this attention to detail will help define Korea's watchmaking future. My particular favorite has the seconds subdivisions, though I can see how some folks will really like the distinctly Korean pattern in the blue one. That pattern may well make this model more unique and collectable.

[@tmf866]

I like the pattern, but I also like the color. I think I'd be willing to give up the minute track for that color. It's nearly an ideal color to me. I wish some of my existing watches were that color. I think the pattern version may be more popular just for the color.

[@adamwhite9872]

I actually quite like the watches and it is nice to support little guys every now and again, but the price of it would have me looking in other directions for more features/better looks. Still, very good as a first attempt!

[@christianhorner001]

That's a fine effort for a first model! Congrats Varon Chiri 👏 Honestly these are much better than the crap pedalled on Ali Express. Of course it could be 20% cheaper or have a display caseback, or lume, or a GMT hand or whatever. But they've done a nice job merging subtle Korean elements with popular dimensions and other homage nods without being a gaudy knockoff. You've recommended worse Jody. All power to them and I hope they succeed. If only we had equally inspired Australian designers.

[@isfbuster6733]

Some of that crap on Aliexpress you mentioned is a better product than the original with better specs and a better price to match. I have a San Martin Seiko "homage" and its great. Everything hits the markers as well whereas seikos are renowned for not doing that.

[@joeskeptical4762]

“... *peddled* ...” 😊

[@mikeellis4345]

Both are very nice watches, especially for a first up offering from a new market entry player. I would buy both before I'd buy from Ali Express. Given time they will improve their offerings. Wish JG all the best ahead.

[@TheDonCucaracho]

I like the dimensions and don't really care for the clasp, I just like having lume on the watch. I think going for brushed indices and hands (like the Casio Oceanus) would help with legibility and would open up to the use of lume. So with a bit more sporty looks, it'd be a solid GADA watch with classy vibes, like a Seiko Sarb

[@MrKanjidude]

Wow, those are some of the most beautiful watches I have ever seen! Great proportions and size, and the green dial is very pretty. I do wish they had a date at 3 o'clock though.

[@jpdemer5]

Not a bad price, really, for a good-looking automatic dress watch. The hands and markers strike me as more Grand Seiko than Patek. The clasp gives a good fit, which is what you most want from a bracelet. The turquoise dial is striking, the 10mm thickness is excellent, and the 100m water resistance is a bonus - this can easily be an everyday watch. If you're thinking Tissot, this is a reasonable alternative that won't be on many other wrists.

[@ImNotOld_ImVintage]

I think you're right on with your assessment. I quite like the turquoise dial, but when I look at the watch along with the price, I can't help but wonder what they want the watch to be and whose market they are going to cut into at that price. It's a good movement, but with a caseback that can't be seen through I suspect there is nothing "special" about it. So, as I am likely the only person in the world that doesn't like the Tissot PRX, sure, I might buy this for the splash of color before I would buy the PRX. But, at the price, I would likely just buy a Seiko first. Maybe at that price the leather band might sell it better, but that's an additional upcharge. I myself, prefer a bracelet, but this watch is a nice dial, a simple case with some nice polishing, and a very ornate bracelet. I think I would probably buy it for $150 less on a cotton strap that matched the color of the face. But I am sure that would make it look like it was going for fashion rather than luxury, and wouldn't be on-brand for what they are going for.

[@craigreed2747]

A good, fair review. I like this watch a lot. It is not a straight up homage, yet carries a classic look. I don't get the complaints about the price. The 9039 is a premium high beat movement that competes in the same range as Sellita driven watches. I have the Mandala and the movement is rock solid. Many 9039 equipped watches are over $500. I'll I don't need another watch on this style, but will be interested to see where this watchmaker guess in the future. He seems to have a passion for his craft and a sense of quality in his production.

[@fauli75]

Hm… i like it…especially a quick adjust clasp. Since owning a Christopher Ward and a Zelos i get really annoyed with my watches that don‘t have a quick adjust. ^^ But…if the clasp was a bit smaller it would fit netter with the overall look of the watch.

[@thedobermans]

As far as the lines are concerned, the first thing I thought of when seeing this watch was the Tag Heuer Link. This particular bracelet is too masculine for the dial. On a leather strap I could definitely see the wow factor go up. More like a PP or JLC. The hour markers take up too much real estate on the face. And the flattish dial finish doesn't create as much glare, but not much interest either. But I'm sure it's a fabulous watch. His strength is being first on the block to give a Korean take on an automatic. More Korean culture is required here. And what is more cultural than a wedding? They are very colorful, lots of shiny vibrant silk outfits. Lots of flower patterns. Also, blue and red on a watch together is still very popular, I think. Maybe some brass or bronze accents? This is definitely a nice watch though.

[@brock8140]

I like it, it might not do any one thing super amazing or new but it does pretty much everything pretty good, I'd be on board around $400 non early bird price, though who knows if that's actually feasible for the manufacturer.

[@TheFlan80]

Love the intro and the background. I will be keeping an eye out for this brand down the road.

[@Razor_Burn]

Its always nice to see a new watch maker enter the market and it presents well but for the price its a hard sell for an unknown brand... Thanks for sharing the honest review Jody and here's hoping they take the criticism as fair and make some needed adjustments to the finished watches!

[@hugomartinez7046]

Man, I really loved the turquoise one 😍 so classy and refined but the price tag and the dimensions are the only cons from my POV 😕 but. That Korean pattering looks interesting and I appreciate the detail

[@thastump]

The dimensions are pretty spot-on and standard, though?

[@georgemole9790]

I think it's a very nice-looking watch, low-key but pleasant to look at, especially the turquoise. I do agree that the price is a bit high, when one can get, for example, an equally nice-looking dress watch from Long Island Watch for about $100 less. If they can get the price down on this one, it would be a solid choice. Wishing them success going forward.

[@zetmoon]

The clasp is like the glidelock clasp you get with some Bliger watches and that you can buy seperatly on Ali. They are pretty good and very handy to adjust the bracelet during the day.

[@dazzlerjohnwatchman8215]

A good honest review. I agree with your assessment about the watch. Korea has a long way to go in watch design it seems.

[@Laz_Arus]

Agree with all points you've made Jody. It's a creditable first attempt, but just lacks that 'something' that says buy me, and at the asking price, that voice falls on deaf ears.

[@sagen888]

Your vids help cure my depression Jody. Cheers, my friend.

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Helloooooo Foster! Thanks for watching mate and stay strong.

[@briantalley8415]

It looks like a very nice watch, and I'd consider it at US$420. But I can get a very similar Tissot chronometer for less. That's something to consider. The movement is fine, but an in-house movement would make a big difference for me.

[@zwussow]

Love hearing your nuanced and honest background at the beginning. I don't quite have the cash for it at the moment or I'd be seriously considering the turquoise one... And about the glide lock, I know I'm in the minority here but I won't even consider a metal bracelet without some on the fly adjustment. I like wearing them fairly tight but apparently I change shape a lot over a day. I actually love the little bit of adjustment on Paganis. Wish every bracelet had something similar!

[@regalcinema4358]

As with the other comments, I enjoyed the back story. It's a lovely watch great turquoise dial, but without the logo on the dial you could be looking at a Seiko 5. That's not a bad thing (I have 3 myself) but at this price we do tend to look for something to stand out.

[@thealphabethalls]

As someone who owns a Seiko Presage and a Second Hour Mandala, I actually do think this has a bit of Wow to it. I think the case design is good for the style of Watch and there is a very well judged amount of high polish to it, which not all dressy style watches get right. The recently bought Mandala has me out of watch budget for now but otherwise I would certainly consider the lovely turquoise.

[@Chris-du3jc]

I was thinking I really liked the black, then remembered I already had a Seiko SNKL45. Pretty much the same looking watch for cheap price.

[@TCL_Dasler]

Wow that intro ... Hats off to the creator. Very good of him. And first impressions, regardless of specs, they look nice. Like a smart Seiko 5.

[@SomeoneSmarter]

Yeah, it didn't look too bad to me. I know the glidelock clasp is a Rolex diver thing, but it does offer really useful adjustment without needing tools. Perhaps if they designed their own dressier adjusting clasp they could have been on to a winner?

[@TheSpritz0]

I actually think the turquoise version is GORGEOUS!!!

[@TheKnobCalledTone.]

It's a pretty good first attempt, and the turquoise is striking from some angles yet understated overall. It is a bit spendy for what it is, and the clasp just doesn't quite gel with the rest of the watch, but I can see the appeal (especially in that turquoise). Still, I hope the manufacturer finds enough interest to keep going and design some more models, as they seem to be on the right track and they come across as having a good attitude.

[@kevinr206]

I am looking for a daily no date three hander, but I prefer 40 mm with 48 lug to lug. This one the clasp looks too big for the dial size

[@douglasfuentes2737]

I like both these watches!!! I prefer the turquoise but they're both nice.

[@jaer.6540]

I can't fully agree with your take here...the clasp for sure is out of place but the bracelet looks great and I actually really like the dial/hands.

[@ilmostro16]

The Varon Chiri does get a lot of things right. The dimensions are perfection, and the watch looks quality and nicely made. The price seems perfectly reasonable. Perhaps one thing that would give it a pop of character would be a slightly boxed and/or domed sapphire crystal rather than flat. That would of course increase the manufacturing cost a little bit though.

[@TomasWatchReviews]

hm, dial looks a bit too busy. Some toning down and simplifying towards the dressy style would be nice I believe.

[@WATCHingJames]

Overall a nice looking watch. But I have to agree about the clasp and I don’t see the wow factor.

[@ernestbeckley]

I absolutely LOVE this watch...well, except for the price. I do agree that's a bit high. As a dress watch, it is beautiful. I agree about a butterfly clasp being better, but I am partial to the glide locks simply because of their versatility when it comes to sizing. I checked out the website and saw the deep blue face. That's the one I would select, though the turquoise is also quite nice. I'm with you about the black.

[@icychap]

Quite beautiful! I'm not sure I"d have one, but it's a brilliant first offering.

[@denisdes7]

A gallant effort, honestly. Agree about the clasp's clumsiness but the watch head is quite a successful exercise in restrained, classic good looks. Ok, it might not induce compulsive snagging, but it does look like a solid offering. Did you pop it on the timegrapher?

[@johnfoster1395]

there is zero micro adjustment with hidden clasps , glide lock or lots of holes . i prefer the glidelock. here in canada there can be huge swings in temp so fits perfectly in the morning and by the time you get home it's ridiculously thight or wicked loose. something you can adjust on the fly is awesome

[@Jekpay]

Love the attitude, and the concept as well. Can see myself drooling on the brands design language in the near future. Cant wait for that step towards the vc 222 homage🔥

[@collarsncolours]

It looks ok, I think my gripes are: waaaay too much high polish, case shape could use some more visual interest with chamfering or edges, logo looks like an upload icon

[@squinkygordon1322]

Great review as always! There's nothing wrong with the piece per se, it's nicely executed but I personally wouldn't buy one for $420.00. There are so many other options for the money. As an aside, I do think the "Blazer" name is an unfortunate choice with Seiko having recently released their "Rowing Blazers" line.

[@IverKnackerov]

Like the turquoise colour …and that they resisted the urge to put a date on it 👍

[@theoneandonlybosable]

Approaching SOTC season as well.. best time of the year.

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Ayeeeeee Red5! It is gonna be BIG this year, as per......

[@AlessandroGenTLe]

About the clasp, apart the obvious reference to Rolex, you find something similar (but less practical since it misses the extension facility) on both datejust, milgauss and oyster perpetual (all very similar to this proposition), so I don't think that's something to be expected on "submarine only" styled watches... In general I like it, the aqua dial only anyway. It's maybe a bit bland, but as 1st edition it is good. I'd have used a better/different movement. Like a Miyota 9015 for instance, to separate from the crowd of Seiko ones...

[@wirdy1]

Sweet-spot sizing for me & a very well executed piece. Maybe a coincidence but this watch has some parallels with my only other experience of Korean products; I've owned Kia & Hyundai vehicles, both were non-flashy but excellent.

[@truxton1000]

It's a great watch I think, as it clearly has some qualities. Regarding the dial I think it would look much better without any writing except for the make, so skip the "Blazer" and the "Automatic".

[@watchchimp3102]

I think it's a good looking watch! If I had to pick out something I didn't care for, it would be the hands, polished hands over a glossy dial and no lume means you'll be moving your wrist around to try and get lightning that will allow you to read the time. I'd jump on it, but I just don't have a need for a dressy sport watch.

[@xgford94]

I like the watch, the hands are perfect I love the turquoise dial,case and bracelet…but you’re right about the box and clasp (it dominates the watch) I don’t love a butterfly but it would work here

[@brianmurphy8154]

Aside from the clasp and price...it really looks like a nice little dress watch. The bracelet looks great....

[@Skitchhiker]

I bet that black model would look incredible with a steel and gold color combo. And although this model doesn't do anything for me in particular, it does make me pretty excited to see what else they come out with in 2 or 3 years, once they fall into a signature groove. I enjoy the subtle looks, and I bet they would make a very classy diver. Also, the box looks great but considering most people wont be using it as a display piece, a price cut at the cost of a less expensive box/tag/card would make this even more appealing.

[@watchnorthlondon]

Honestly, it’s not that bad. Maybe a little tough on this one Jodi. Perhaps the wrong clasp, perhaps a mite too expensive, but apart from that, it’s nice.

[@mudson7380]

I do dig the pattern around the border of the turquoise dial. Spent a couple years in Seoul, so it does pull a bit at the nostalgia strings. I think it’s a good looking watch

[@H0kram]

These are great looking pieces and the price fits the quality, given that it reaches excellent finishing and is assembled in South Korea, with delivery services at an all time high. We are so used to China's minimum wage and dignity we even tend to forget that their most reputable watches fully made in China, are only some 25% cheaper than this one anyway. Some feedback : - A yellow second hand on the black dial would definitely make it more interesting and matching the yellow Blazer name. Even a yellow tip ( I'd go full second hand ). Be a bit more radical Mr Chiri, that'll make you stand out of the crowd. - A regular screw down caseback. Believe it or not Mr Chiri, some watchmakers will use anything to pump up their maintenance prices, including complaining about that type of caseback. And a lot of us watch enthusiast, tinker with the watch, regulate it, or send it to an amateur who does all that, a screwdown caseback that can be opened with the basic tool is better ( worth the half mill or mill it may add to the thickness). I really like the design, the attention to details, the excellent finishing (!), and the shade of teal you picked. Great bracelet too, it's not an off the shelf, I love that continuing curve on the third link, quite elegant.

[@nedflanders3769]

I think it’s a great looking watch. As for the crown size, I do think it’s good because I can’t stand when a watch has a tiny little crown that’s hard to turn with my big fingers. No real opinion on the clasp other than I agree it’s a bit unexpected.

[@paulelliott7493]

like the size of it, and the finishing looks very good...but if he wants to play with the big guys, he needs some wow factor....big names can make a watch like that, they have the name and the brand reputation behind them and that what they are selling. As a unknown maker, he needs to make a statement, and as nice as the watch is, it does not announce "hey!! we arrived" .....Goog luck to him., i hope he keeps trying.

[@shaunkelly3562]

I like the looks of these watches, but would prefer a smaller type of clasp and some small lume pips on the dial, plus lumed hands.

[@ABROOKSH]

I think it is a really handsome watch. It is cool to have a micro brand produce a restrained product. It is easily to add a bunch of little details. Often those details result in less then the designer hoped they would achieve. If I had not just picked up a king seiko, I would seriously consider this watch. Hopefully they will be around for a long time and I can catch them down the road.

[@watchthesecondhand2324]

Honestly while I am not in the market for this style of everyday watch (i already own a datejust) i actually am looking forward to this brand’s offerings. This looks great and I wish them the best of luck.

[@richierich9761]

I really like the turquoise one would look killer on an alligator strap I reckon . Wish the company well

[@infinity2x0]

Honestly, I'm not mad at the clasp at all. I'll really take any watch that has one, as long as the edges are softened and not laser sharp. I suspect I am in the minority though since I don't like butterfly or deployment clasps. I do like the case finishing and dimensions of the watch are pleasing to me. However, with this 38.5mm size, I might suggest that the 12,3,6,9 indices should have lume and the 3,6,9 should be singles, not doubles even if they are using a dive style clasp. If they're going for Calatrava, then using those style of indices would be better than what is currently present. I might also suggest integrating the 'Korea Made' into the minute track rather than being above it. Gold Indices on the black dial would have helped too. Kudos overall to this watchmakers dreams, much respect!

[@danspencer4235]

I love the dimensions, and the turquoise model is especially attractive. It's a little pricey for me, but I see potential for this brand and I wish them well.

[@WatchmakerErik]

I really wish Varon Chiri well, as I think the biosphere of watches needs to be more diverse. There is nothing wrong with these per se, and I love the turquoise, but I think our host is absolutely right that they aren't a "wow" On value,features or looks. I think if they'd gone their own way in the styling it would have been much more worthwhile. They are darn pretty though!

[@orangedan5424]

Hmmm I think I agree, I'm surprised at the glide lock for a dress watch like this? And yes, this watch need something that present uniqueness of this brand or trademark. Like Dr Jodi mentioned, character 😎

[@tarasmathers7423]

👏,👏....very well done, Jody. I do believe that you may have coined the "beavers-teeth" terminology, in-reference to the 12:00, double-hexagonal indice...🤓as I don't believe I've ever heard another reviewer, reference them in this manner. I am "picking up," what you were "putting down".....shall we say👍. Second, I love the Seinfeld t-shirt. IMHO, one of the all-time funniest sitcoms ever produced. I have seen every episode at least 10 times, and still laugh just as hard today, as the first time I watched them. Third, I feel that was a very fair assessment of the watch. Something, that I feel every new watchmaker, aspiring for greatness needs, is objectivity, and critical analysis. Aspiring for greatness in such a highly detail oriented craft such as this, I feel a person needs those individuals that will tell you about the bad, every bit as much (if not more) as the good. I feel that you've given him that honest objectivity here, and I credit him, for inviting it. Keep up the great work, Dr Jody. Here's wishing you all the best. Cheers.....

[@Jg02468]

I enjoy the watch, the looks, the braclet, and the clasp. The dial is beautiful and unique, dressy but simple and taking inspiration from sporty watches. It's korea made so unique!

[@whiteglovewatches9908]

I like everything except the clasp, logo font/size and price. Excellent dimensions, fairly understated and looks like it’s very well made. The clasp is just too big for the watch, looks unbalanced and $420 for a (very nice) homage is a bit much. You can pick up a Hamilton Intra-Matic or Jazzmaster Thinline auto for around $100 less which are both exceptional.

[@martinowl]

Was there any comment on its build quality? Did I miss that? How does it compare to models say from San Martin & Pagani from the AliExpress stable? And also to the big guns, Tissot etc. Good review of a new brand. Will be interesting to see future developments.

[@gregnatividad8345]

Dimensions are spot on. Especially the thinness. Add some lume, glossy dials, non polished Center links and I’m the first to get it.

[@RocktCityTim]

A fine, circular brushing on the black face would up that look very nicely. I didn't see the issues that you saw - until you mentioned the pricing. I'd been sitting on US$350 - especially with that movement. Maybe they should keep this first release as a China-build and then let the revenue and momentum that a $300-$350 watch would generate give them the edge and resources to develop that Korean movement and really shock us with a GREAT $750 watch.

[@philspencelayh5464]

Looks ok and I don't mind the clasp at all. I wouldn't wear a no date automatic. I have a few no date watches. I wind them up and wear for a day, or a few hours. At that price in the last few days I've been tempted by Hamiltons Tissots and Certinas.

[@calebcourteau]

That's a damn fine looking watch. Perfect dimensions. If I had the cash I'd have one on my wrist. Thanks for the backstory and thorough review, Jody.

[@violinmke]

Nice. I'm not a fan of delayed gratification though and don't fund kickstater watches. Crowded field between the Japan Seiko types and Chinese factory cheapos. Good luck.

[@brianmsahin]

Thanks for the review Jody. I admire a man who takes on criticism and maybe improve it for version II. I like the look of it, particularly the blue one.....I'm in a blue period at the moment. 😉 What would I change?... not the bracelet, it's ok for me. I don't mind fiddly if it fits ok. At 38.5mm it's a great size for most people, though my tree trunk demands 40mm at a minimum. The dials are nice but the font needs to change. It's too nondescript, looks cheap and unrefined. Yes, Blazer, is a bit Ali Express, and what does it even portray? The price is high, though I understand the manufacturing costs are higher. If the economic zone in North Korea was still operational, he could have reduced the costs. I'm assuming that it's not operating at present though I could be wrong. I'd buy it for $380 in 42mm. I do think that there's a lot of potential for this watchmaker but needs to up his game for the next one, and definitely needs to either lower costs or make something more spectacular for the price.

[@jeffrx]

I don’t mind the clasp and actually think it’s quite convenient. I agree the crown looks a little big. Overall a nice looking watch.

[@AmritKumar-hp1rv]

Pretty blue color. The crown seems disproportionately massive for the watch and it’s dress watch theme.

[@yarrrthekraken]

Jody, gotta say this review is a swing and a miss. The turquoise version is breathtaking, and I **love** the double indicies at 3-6-9-12. The clasp is weird for sure, but otherwise this looks fantastic.

[@martymcpeak4748]

Both are great looking watches, especially the Blazer with the turquoise dial. I only have a problem with laying down that kind of cash for a wristwatch. I have this disability called G.A.S. ( guitar acquisition syndrome) lol. Cheers and Thanks for taking the time and putting the time and effort into making, editing and putting out these videos for us.

[@garythomas3150]

I think it’s a really cool watch. I like the turquoise dial, flashy bracelet, and glide lock clasp. I think he nailed it.

[@timhorack5468]

I think this is an overall very nice everyday desk watch. The only thing I would do is swap out that huge glidelock clasp for something more refined. I like it. 👍

[@danigraphic1]

Firstly, congratulations to the watch brand owner and I wish you lots of success! I agree that it maybe lacks a bit of personality. But that's just my opinion. Have you considered extending the Korean pattern to other parts of the watch? Maybe to the bracelet in some way, or the bezel...Maybe that would make it even more special. Just throwing out ideas

[@tortugabob]

I'm not a dress watch guy but I like this watch. Clean, simple, elegant design. I love the simplicity of the case back. I wish more watches brands would use this esthetic. The bracelet looks well constructed. Miyota 9039 movement A+++. I do think the crown could be smaller and the clasp is too large considering the 10mm thickness. I would take the name "Blazer" and "Automatic" off the dial and and engrave them radially on the caseback in very small letters. Get rid of the fancy wooden container box and lower the price $20 and I think plenty of people would buy this watch, especially because it has the 9039 movement. I think the owner put his heart and soul into this watch so kudos to him and good luck.