Magnifique! The New Meraud Bonaire

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A vintage treat for you all today - Belgian style. Not a dollar dazzler, this one will sting you close to $750, but what a stunner, spot on looks and dimensions. And for once, I prefer the leather and tropic to the bracelet. C'est bon! Cheers, JOMW.

[@meraud-watches]

Jody, a huge thank you for the review and time put into reviewing my piece. I'm happy that I could send it to you. It's clear that the subscribers aren't used to this pricing so I'd like to elaborate on this: 1. Suppliers and manufacturers. Each manufacturer was chosen by me, even the tanneries. Most small brands work with a "private label" manufacturer, I dare to say 90% of the microbrands, which translates into lower prices when ordering wholesale. I did not want that because I gave out control to one company that then controls several parties. Now I have them under my own control. I declined the factories that delivered samples of poor quality (of each component I used about 3 manufacturers). I am now working with some manufacturers who also supply Swiss brands. Is that important, maybe not, does it offer better quality, yes it does. Are those companies more expensive, yes they are. Some parts are even 100% more expensive vs. traditional chinese companies owned by the Chinese. 2. The chosen materials. A sapphire bezel is one of the most expensive pieces of a watch case. Especially when it is thin and curved like mine. The case finish is absolutely superb, those who saw the watch in real life know what I mean. The leather comes from 2 tanneries, one belonging to the best French manufacturer of handbags and the other is their supplier. They are then being stitched at a very small leather atelier (photos on the Kickstarter page). Is there any other micro brand that can say the same? I tried off the shelf straps (which are cheap and could bring the cost down significantly) but I was not interested because I did not like the quality. So I started by choosing the tanneries myself and searched for a leather atelier. Even the strapmaker that produces for Franck Muller, Bremont, Bell & Ross, Laurent Ferrier, got declined by me. Just not good enough. My strap is about x10 of what a traditional Chinese made leather strap would cost. The rubber straps come from the same factory as the Everest bands, a Swiss manufacturer (the production is in Asia under Swiss control). It's too bad that I can not reveal all the brands that my suppliers work for. 3. Swiss movement. I am a European brand, I refused to work with Asian movements. Although I know they are good, it's just not what I wanted for Méraud. I appreciate the personal touch and I went to the STP factory (my motion provider). I can easily meet with them to discuss things and I think it's an added value. I also love the legacy of Swiss watchmaking. And in fact, it's a small effort of the brands to spend a little more on the movement. And when I say small effort, it's really a small effort. The swiss movements are slightly more expensive than some of the better Japanese movements. After all, it's the heart of the watch and it had to be good and beautiful. I haven't seen many Miyota/Seiko movements with a custom engraved rotor either. Other microbrands sometimes charge an extra cost for that engraving. 4. I wanted to offer a real collector package at this price. I am a collector myself (vintage and modern pieces) and I appreciate that myself. I wanted to create a piece that I would like to buy myself. What other brand offers you a watch in leather or steel, a rubber strap, a nato strap and a customized strap tool (yes, it's my tool own design/tool)? All this in a beautiful box and at this price? 5. I did not want to attract the masses. I think a lot of small brands compete against each other in trying to offer the lowest price and the best quality. It's just impossible if you think long term and it will attract the masses. They are looking for low margins and high volumes of sales. I don't want to become a big microbrand. 6. I live in Belgium and it is a Belgian company. I'm in the top 5 of the most taxed countries and it also has an influence (a BIG one to be honest). I wish it was not the case. Sure, I could start a company in Hong Kong, which would make the watch cheaper (quite a bit actually) but then I loose my own identity in my opinion. Buying a watch is not only buying the product itself. You also buy all the work behind the scenes and being a one man company with limited budget it's not easy. But it's very rewarding (definately if 215 people already pre-ordered in only 1,5 week) and I couldn't get more joy out of doing anything else. I can't make a watch to please everyone. Everyone has their own personal opinion about a piece. Could I have offered it cheaper? Yes, but it would have meant that I would have to use a generic tropic strap, a Chinese leather strap, a standard strap tool or no strap tool, a different box. But that's not who I am and that's not how I wanted the brand to be. Another option is to sell the head only on a steel bracelet and just a leather pouch. But that's just not how I view the Méraud brand. I aim for high quality. The bracelet that has been reviewed is a CNC prototype! For production tooling will be made. It's an impressive bracelet being CNC machined, and it has real rivets as opposed to Oris or Tudor, which use them for decoration only. It's all a matter of personal preference. Let gouts et les couleurs. Thanks all!

[@taunusman3235]

Stijn, I really love this watch and think it is reasonably priced. I am shocked how many comments here compare your high quality "niche" product (with low manufacturing quantities) with mass manufactured products of much lower quality (and asthetics), predominantly consisting of Chinese parts. There will always be a cheaper product - cheap in terms of price and quality. It is clear that the guys only interesed in the price are not your propsects, and I do not see a reason why you have to "justify" to them what you are doing. I am sure the product and its quality speak for themselves. It takes a lot of heart and effort to start your watch company, and it is clear that you are in it for the fun and pride of producing something special - and not for the "quick buck". I have a lot of respect for what you are doing. I am also a watch aficionado and own some retro watches (Tag Heuer Monaco, Junghans Meister Pilot, Tudor Black Bay 58) - all of them are considerably more expensive than your product. I believe that mid fities to end sixties were the time when watch styling was at its peak, and really understand this retro trend, and you have done a maginificent job creating something both modern (in terms of technology and quality) and "old fashioned" at the same time. Thanks for giving watch aficionados more choice than ever before. Good luck to you and your business.

[@achiltsompanos447]

Bracelet is fine, tapering to 16mm too! I would like a date, and a bezel with minute graduations. THanks

[@mrjolly8680]

Quality cost a little more. Beautiful interesting bezel. Case has a little Rado Captain look to it. Nice.

[@epicv7dayz824]

Méraud Watch Co. Hi mate...great looking watch mate...do love the retro baker lite look on the bezel. Totally understand that you wish to keep it in the Swiss made philosophy, but have to say that the amount of money you are asking is a bit hard to swallow. Your competition is way too numerous and cheaper to make my purchase for this fine piece logical. But, good luck to you and your venture. Cheers

[@puscifer99]

It's a great watch I am so glad I backed it.

[@smirnoffvodka2618]

today its exactly a year ago i found your channel, and boy if you wouldve told me a year ago that i would own 12 watches a year later i wouldve called you crazy. and well, to be honest. i am youre a real hidden gem when it comes to watch reviews and videos. unlike others you dont bore me and i love it youre also one of the fewer that does really cheap gem reviews and man that really has saved my wallet anyways im cutting myself off here, love the content and keep it up!

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Thanks for the message and the kind words mate! Sorry for expanding your watch collection, but glad if you got some bargains. Jody

[@smirnoffvodka2618]

Just One More Watch cheers!

[@WatchGeek]

Love the size! Not loving the clasp for $750

[@Juroriam]

Graphite looks gorgeous. In my opinion the best of these three.

[@meraud-watches]

Thanks, I would say it's the most elegant choice and maybe most "under the radar".

[@earthenjadis8199]

Sorry, my headphones are playing up. For a minute there, I thought you said they are asking $750US for this watch but obviously, nobody would charge such an outrageous price when other micros like Lorier and Borealis do it over $300 cheaper. And if you REALLY want to go crazy and get the Swiss label on your watch, Steinhart now has an Ocean One Vintage for $550US.

[@jensjorssen7191]

There you've said it, Lorier, Borealis and Steinhart. Lorier ok but Borealis and Steinhart, I mean, how much more can you copy existing designs. Don't forget you're comparing a Japanese movement with Swiss if you talk about the Lorier. French straps with Chinese. The Méraud comes with 3 straps and a custom tool. The owner has already mentioned the reasons why price is that high and it makes a lot of sense. I don't think it's high at all. I guess you don't see the value.

[@earthenjadis8199]

@@jensjorssen7191 Borealis Cascais with an STP 1-11 movement is every part the equal of this and was $575. You're right - I don't see the value and I would say that those buying this are being taken for a ride to the tune of $200 for some peripheral additions not worth the premium - like ordering beverages at a restaurant. I'm certain I am not alone in this assessment.

[@justicebradington6437]

@@earthenjadis8199 preach it brother, amen! simply ridiculous price for an unknown and untested brand. and as you say, there is better for less.

[@TheDesius]

you can get a 5$ watch at wallmart if you are so concerned with the price of watches

[@earthenjadis8199]

@@TheDesius I'm not even sure if you're speaking English.

[@TinBin-Craig]

very nice... i like press clasp for that price oh no no

[@ColinLack]

I really like this one look wise. And at 39mm I think it would actually fit my really thin wrists quite nicely. I will have to keep an eye out for these in the future!

[@meraud-watches]

Thanks Colin!

[@bartthans9110]

I think you get an awful lot for the price: custom, high quality Swiss movement (no date) drilled lugs brushed and polished case with superb proportions anti reflective crystal coating domed sapphire crystal solid packaging and a lot of extra's (high quality tropic and nato strap, superb rivetted steel bracelet or finest, high quality leather strap, strap tool) screw down crown 200 meters/ 20ATM water resistance great vintage look in a modern watch great lume unidirectional, lumed, sapphire bezel cool caseback elegant hands polished indices, hands, bezel edge and crown what more would you wish for, I've backed this project!

[@daspiper8941]

This is a very handsome watch in a perfect size for me. Yes I would buy the Blue one.

[@stevetownsend1389]

Very nice watch, but that price is a tough obstacle. Borealis and Richard Legrand have a similar look with many comparable specs at much lower price points. Especially since there are probably Chinese components in this one.

[@77cjam]

Beautiful looking watch and perfect size. Love the vintage look and the watch in general but way too overpriced. Glad you mentioned the price at the start. A lot of money to spend on a new untested watch. Think my search for a sub 40mm diver continues. Thanks for the review 👍

[@meraud-watches]

Thanks for the comment Chris, I put a reaction with how the price is set up above. If you would have any question, send me an e-mail! Thanks.

[@77cjam]

Méraud Watch Co. Hello thanks for your reply. I'm sorry I'm not too sure I understand how the price is set up. I think the watch is stunning and perfect and exactly what I am looking for, hence my excitement at the start, and disappointment to know the price and that it's so far out of my personal budget. But I can see you have smashed your target on Kickstarter (many congratulations) so clearly not everyone has the same thoughts on the price, so it's all subjective. But as said stunning watch 🙏⌚ and good luck with the campaign 🤞

[@TedCornish]

I'm a big fan of that automatic movement, imho it's one of the better Swiss ones. Really like the look of all three but it's gotta be a bit more special to warrant that price. It's hitting to hard in an overcrowded price market

[@paulstevenson200]

None of my handbags have orange boxes. Bonny watches; I really enjoy the simplicity. Lovely, informed, well paced review. Over-priced unfortunately. Thanks.

[@samuelball8775]

Richard Legrand is half the money and looks very similar. Nice thin bracelet though (some clasps are so thick). BTW.. What are you.. Not wearing when you're showing the crown 😂😂

[@stevetownsend1389]

Hahahaha. Had to go back and see what you were talking about.

[@tezzanewton]

Nice watch, mate but I’ll be dropping my money on the new seiko sbdc 051/53.

[@mrbacchus6127]

A much better choice

[@JeeGee114]

In both Belgium and Bonaire they speak Dutch nondeju😉

[@tomnowakovski6315]

Great review! I disagree with most here. Might be due to the channel's subscriptions but I feel you get a lot for $750. Which other brand offers 2 extra straps and a strap tool, swiss movement, and a super high quality leather strap? I know most here are used to buy borealis, etc, but those are flagrant copies of existing pieces and they look for large sales, small margins, no details like this one. I say hats off for the Bonaire! And don't compare it with an Oris price wise. That's just wrong in my opinion. Oh and Zodiac also uses stp?!

[@redletterl78]

Tom Nowakovski Yes, but...no heritage at this price? I’m not a watch snob and don’t own any Swiss pieces, but US$750 would be going towards something with more inherent value (I know - it’s subjective) and I suspect many others feel the same. Good luck to Meroud though because clearly more than enough people are taken with the design and specs. Vintage is really coming on strong these days.

[@jensjorssen7191]

If you would have read about Méraud you would know that the owner is a long time collector. No micro brands but high end vintage and modern pieces. I've backed the project, I don't need the heritage. I also prefer to buy a Méraud vs an Oris, where you pay more than 50% marketing value, remember that this is a microbrand. The leather strap alone is being sold by different shops for over $300... We're talking about top end quality here.

[@meraud-watches]

Thanks for your comment!

[@TheMartialist]

The time teller really lost weight.

[@Michael-4]

Yeah and he's come of the amphetamines.

[@jeffhampton7405]

@@Michael-4 Oh man, the shouting. I can't take the shouting.

[@martinc.720]

“... in the Sydney springtime sunshine...”, he says, as I’m watching this from Canada, on the first day we have snow on the ground where I live ☹️ Another great review! I really like the watch, but at this price, non merci.

[@adaptivekalman]

Jody, it's not even a dilemma. Just get all the three watches.

[@meraud-watches]

Haha, thanks!

[@spook44]

Are you nude-tubing Jody?!? Beware of shiny crowns if so (5:47) 😀

[@alimouad5120]

I think this is the best looking dive watch reviewed in this channel. But I have two objections. Firstly, I find the crown more of like a dress watch rather than a dive watch. Secondly, the price obviously!

[@fattmatt200]

After doing a little research, am trying to justify the price of this watch when it's using the stp 1-11 movement.

[@savvylifestrategies9445]

Sorry, Jody, but I have to agree with some other comments that the watch is priced high at $750 compared to other micro brands like Phoibos $299. Pressed clasp at $750! It that was a conscious decision, they should fire whoever made it. Established Swiss brands like Tissot have some excellent offerings around $500-$750. Thanks for the review, though. Oris, as you mentioned, is another great choice in that price range. I don't see this brand being successful at their price offering.

[@meraud-watches]

Thanks for your comment. I'm the guy behind the brand and every decision has been made by myself. The press clasp was a concious choice. To be honest, most of the clasps offered by small brands are not my tast, at all. I am a vintage collector for over 10 years and wanted the bracelet to have that same vibe. It's not a cost cutting choice but rather a choice from a design perspective. I do not know of any other brand offering a true rivetted bracelet. The ones from Oris and Tudor are for decoration only, a cost cutting choice. Impossible to compare with Tissot as well, which produces above 2 million pieces a year. I also don't think you'll get a leather strap, rubber, nato and a strap tool with the tissot. Not to speak about a proper box. Everything in my piece has been chosen for with a reason and it's all a matter of personal opinions. Thanks again!

[@matthewhill3996]

Oris isn’t in this price range. Oris starts at $1,100. Again, this is $700. Huge difference

[@wpherigo1]

Another great review. Not even having “Swiss Made” on it is kind of a liability at this price point.

[@meraud-watches]

It's built with parts from Switzerland, France and Hong Kong. What is the advantage of Swiss Made these days other than a marketing gimmick? Does it help if I tell you I'm working with suppliers of Swiss brands? Hehe. Thanks for the comment. I liked the review as well.

[@elitzurlevy2914]

Jody, Is it the same rubber strap as found on Oris Sixty Five ? Where can I buy this strap ?

[@meraud-watches]

Style and dimension wise, yes, the finishing is different and more like the vintage tropics. The Oris ones are a bit matte while mine will be more shiny like the old ones. The prototype Jody reviewed was an early prototype. See the kickstarter page for better photos. And I will be offering them on my website later on.

[@christophergustafson3942]

Nice watch but I think a rational buyer would go for an Oris 65 given the price.

[@puscifer99]

I have both (Oris 65 with the bronze trim), the Meraud is an objectively better watch and I tend to wear it more than my Oris 65. My only complaint is the watch is far better on sailcloth strap.

[@ethanvancamp2144]

I also have both watches, there is a substantial price difference, and I agree that the Meraud is arguable a better piece... Though, I do really love them both

[@ocb05]

Oris 65 is trash compared to this good watch... Hell, Oris 65 is one trash of its kind. I compared it with my Baltic Aquascape, the Oris 65 sucks in everyway.... at a price of $2000-2500

[@Spineloro]

In that price range and without hesitation my preference goes to the Baltic Aquascaphe which has character without any sign of arrogance✨

[@devleschouderenicolas3045]

Hi Jody, thanks a lot for the review!The Watch looks gorgeous Indeed,, is sadly expensive but je l'adore ! ;-)Greetings from Belgium,

[@meraud-watches]

Thanks Nicolas!

[@Watchatete]

Looks like Meraud used blueprints of Baltic Aquascaphe foe this watch. Maybe a better grade movement, but so close after Baltic did their Blancpain reissue. How many more skin divers can I afford???

[@keysersoze503]

Hey Jody! Did Chairman Mao wear a watch? I spied that book on your shelf. Nice looking watch.

[@raserx63]

Nice , but...Markers and hands seem small for the face. Could use a day/date perhaps to fill some space as well. Ditch fancy box , extra straps and price it at 349.99 us. Then it would be competitive. As is, I’d pass.

[@meraud-watches]

Thanks. Could I have offered it cheaper? Yes, but it would have meant that I would have to use a generic tropic strap, a Chinese leather strap, a standard strap tool or no strap tool, a cheap box or pouch. Or just offer it as you say, without an amazing box and just a bracelet. But that's not who I am and that's not how I want the brand to be. I'm absolutely no fan of a pouch and watch only as it ruins the buying experience in my book. Hehe. It's all a matter of personal preference

[@epicv7dayz824]

So enjoy your reviews mate. Happy new year !!! I got to say though that you do give a fair bit of licence to a rather pricey piece Can’t see it taking off unless the price drops by a few hundred. Cheers

[@otobotrecords]

These are kinda "meh" for the price TBH. Jody, you should review Seiko's SBDC 051/053/057/059 line of 62MAS inspired divers. A couple of day ago I received the SBDC051 and it's fantastic.

[@williamford6028]

Hello Jody. I'm with the others here. Meraud, Shinola etc. are all overpriced for what they are; in my view. Like you said, for a little more the Oris is much nicer. Or for less money Seiko and others offer a lot of watch for less of our hard earned money. All this said, I sincerely appreciate your showing us so many differ watches. Keep up the great work and I'll bet you hit the 50k subscriber mark very soon indeed!

[@robbiecox]

You didn't mention the end links on the stainless, they wouldn't be hollow would they? That would go with the cheap pressed clasp. Their website doesn't show them either so I am a bit wary.

[@meraud-watches]

The endlinks are solid indeed. The press clasp was a concious choice. To be honest, most of the clasps offered by small brands are not my tast, at all. I am a vintage collector for over 10 years and wanted the bracelet to have that same vibe. It's not a cost cutting choice but rather a choice from a design perspective. As Jody mentioned.

[@robbiecox]

Many thanks.

[@udojager2673]

Great review. Is the movement realy made in Switzerland or does it come from China?

[@edwardo737]

Very impressive but a bit thicker than I’d like. I understand they are sold out.

[@oscargustavoarcosruiz8793]

The blue one nail it

[@meraud-watches]

Thanks!

[@andrei-cosmin.popa85]

Nice video, as always, mate! As for the watch, who cares about hq strap when the movement is, to say the least, shady? I'd never chose such a time piece over a Steinhart, which is at least 1 seiko cheaper on the price :D

[@meraud-watches]

Thanks for the comment! The movement is not shady and has been used by micro's before. Zodiac also uses the STP movement. It's an improved clone of an ETA2824 and Swiss.

[@morganstrapco]

Piggy backing off of spook44, the crown is very shiny and shows all if ya know what I mean lol. I love these videos!!!!

[@Basman59]

Really $1100 AUS dollars are you serious (best McEnroe accent) sorry for that I can get a used Damasko (the grail). So over priced.

[@markplayford5836]

My grail too, tried on a Omega seamaster aqua terra uk price £4000 and a Damasko DA46 the other week (£1200) I thought the Damasko was better!

[@greamespens1460]

Dear sir, may I propose a comparison of the Search Sistem 51 Arrow (the one that looks like a flieger) versus the Seiko 5 flieger. Regards.

[@KenSlager]

I am of the same frame of mind as many who commented about these microbrands. Another Diver, clone/ borrowed movement, this bit brushed, that bit polished over and over again. Very little originality or ingenuity. It feels like so many startups are in it for a quick buck rather than the love of creating interesting watches.

[@meraud-watches]

Thanks for your message. I invite you to read the "about us" page on the website. Hehe. It's just because of my passion for watches that I created this. For a quick buck I should enter a different business.

[@timothythomas1626]

Scuba Dude? Why Borrow from Vostok? I like can't remember the brand but the dive helmet with the face window glass.

[@traviskasperbauer1229]

How about the new orient mako 3 RA-AA0009L

[@michaelkane6797]

As others here have said, the price ruins this one for me. There are other options of similar quality for far less money. It's an attractive watch, but I don't think it offers anything new. I'm glad their kickstarter is doing well, but I'll pass on this one.

[@meraud-watches]

Thanks!

[@rioriggs3568]

Nice one Jody, mais putain de merde the PRICE IS ALL WRONG!... for $750 I would go for a used Oris Diver 65, for $500 I would go for the Prometheus Eagle Ray, for circa $250 I would go for the Fifty Five Fathoms mod (yobokies) of the Seiko SNZH55 and for less than $100 I would go for the 45mm (too big I know) Corgeut with the lumed bezel and the Miyota 8215. Just some of the few options out there and IMHO, all of these are more aesthetically pleasing than the Méraud. Keep up the amazing reviews!

[@Michael-4]

Well that works. Not that hard really is it? Size that fits all, classy looks, (even if a tad pricey), options for all. Other mbrands take note.

[@Claus-L.Mueller]

Dry attractive first attempt! 👍

[@augustinf]

Are these guys aware of market prices?

[@meraud-watches]

I'm very well aware of the market prices. I posted a comment re pricing of this piece above. I think many things are underestimated. Three other media outlets called it an affordable watch. It's all a matter of personal opinions. There's a reason behind it's pricing. Thanks for the comment!

[@augustinf]

@@meraud-watches I understand there is a pricing logic from your perspective; but to be perfectly honnest as a consumer this watch doesn't look like a watch that should cost more than 500$; at least from my perspective it doesn't look superior to a few microbrand watches priced around 500$

[@meraud-watches]

All I can say is, if there is someone you know with a Méraud, check it out. Where are you located? Everyone I have met up with before the launch was impressed by the quality and the fact that you also get a Nato strap, Tropic and strap tool as a bonus. I'm no microbrand collector at all. I'm a vintage collector and created everything from my perspective. What I would appreciate in a watch. Even stupid stuff like engraving "acier inox" on a buckle. As Jody mentioned the devil is in the details with the Méraud. And details make the watch in my opinion. Hehe. If you're not too far off, I'm always open to grab a coffee or a beer!

[@augustinf]

@@meraud-watches haha, I'm a french guy living in southern spain (Malaga) so if you're located in belgium I'm a bit far. A lot of Belgians come to Malaga so if you ever spend a small holiday around here the beer's on me with pleasure; I'd be delighted to see the watch in person too ;)

[@meraud-watches]

I was crossing my fingers for an answer like nothern France, hehe. Thanks!

[@bensieber6960]

Look like simple, preliminary sketches of a Baltic Aquascaphe. Simple and unrefined.

[@achiltsompanos447]

How is the crown action, threading?

[@DrFrankLondon]

There is no reason why C3 Old Radium should not be up there with C3, it will depend on the number of applications. But love the watch, except one thing, don't like that you have BGW9 on the bezel and C3 or C3 Old Radium on the dial. Maybe it was the way you filmed it, but it sure looked like BGW9. But props to them for not ripping off the design totally but rather tries to honour the original.

[@meraud-watches]

Thanks for the nice comment Frank. All the lume is C3 luminova. Might be due to the exposure or so that it looked more blue on the bezel, I noticed as well. These are still prototypes.

[@throwingdartsandbreakinghearts]

750? Get real mon ami!

[@issachunt3418]

Im pissed will review tomorrow. But the price for a no name er..

[@hahmadi1951]

What's the watch in the lower right boxy winder?

[@nunomendes2484]

Love the narrow coin edged bezel... But, "la vache" it's too expensive! I would rather pull my trigger on a CW C65 Trident.

[@tomnowakovski6315]

Nuno Mendes isnt the c65 more expensive? And does it come with all the extras as this one? I think the pricing is great, finally a brand that doesnt want to enter the war of being the cheapest microbrand. Hodinkee loved this piece, so did Fratello.

[@nunomendes2484]

@@tomnowakovski6315 I like it too, don't get me wrong. Great specs and looks (the case is a little bit too tall)... But this unknown micro brand asks for serious money. Bold move! Last time i checked the c65 was priced around 800€. So, not that more expensive.

[@meraud-watches]

Thanks for your opinino Nuno, I appreciate it. I'm well aware that I'm new to the watch market. But I'm not new to watches. I have been collecting for about 12 years. From Seiko to Patek. I dare to say that I do know what a good watch should feel like but I do get your point of view. The price has to be seen as a price for the package, which CW doesn't offer as far as I know. The same tools are being sold around for €45, you get it with the Bonaire, the rubber strap is made by a swiss supplier that produces for big brands (which would probably be a €80 - €250 strap depending on the brand) and the NATO strap has details many others don't have (the final sample just arrived). I do understand that it does not come cheap, but the value for money is exceptional. The case is 12.5mm thick, not much but due to the architecture it looks tall. The strap is only 2mm thick so it makes the case look higher. Kind regards, Stijn

[@markplayford5836]

Well well a rarity indeed, a new brand that gets it right. Love the no date and no Swiss made too for that dial cleanliness plus I like their Logo. Your correct about the bracelet it's just not quite their yet, at first I did not like the leather straps either but the close ups sold me. Especially if they do supply leather work to H****s or indeed they make them. Blue was my preference at first but actually like the grey one the black been too Oris 65. The price and spec are very close to a Glycine combat sub which sadly I would prefer. Great to see Belgium getting on the watchmaking map though.

[@meraud-watches]

Thanks for the nice comment! Belgium has been on the watchmaking map for years. But many don't know. The Vacheron Constantin Mercator movement is invented in Belgium, and we also have Ressence! That being said, I posted a new reaction on how the price is set up. The leather is indeed coming from a tannery owned by H and a tannery supplying H. They are amazing. Thanks again!

[@markplayford5836]

Wow a reply from the company, well once again I congratulate you on a great product.

[@gitmoholliday5764]

Maybe the pencilhand edges could be totally white instead of shiny metallic, and one bummer the brandname in the case back looked like it was scratched in with a piece of a broken screwdriver.. Maybe a sign of a perfectly made Asian watchcase, messed up afterwards by someone in a gardenshed who happened to be in possession off some powertools.

[@williamparker2922]

Great video and reviews.

[@ABCTEST213]

alternative to the latest Tag Heuer

[@MilkxJones]

Well for the same vintage look, we can get a Spinnaker Fleuss for 200$ ... So it seems that this Méraud is way overpriced !

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Fleuss is #3 FF homage. Expect a review next month!

[@earthenjadis8199]

Spinnaker case sizes break my heart. The Fleuss at $285 is the most amazing value with a beautiful textured dial and display case back (which none of the others offer). However, I think Spinnaker have trouble counting below 43.

[@MilkxJones]

@@earthenjadis8199 The Evant Tropic Diver 300 could be the one for you then (41mm 😛)

[@JohnClarkW]

I own the Spinnaker Fleuss, and put in on a strapcode super engineer, it was just over $300 and probably my favorite of the Fifty Fathoms knockoffs. I have been thinking about a beads-of-rice bracelet for something more 50s era looking.

[@ramspencer5492]

Yep. 43 mm is absurd on my small wrist. Beautiful watch otherwise

[@kevinc1001]

So Hermes makes the straps?

[@meraud-watches]

The leather is sourced from the handbag supplier and is being stitched at a small atelier. There are many pics on the Kickstarter page. I'm pretty sure that almost no other small brand can come up with these pics. The strap is a choice I made because I have been collecting watches for years and a top end strap just makes a huge difference.

[@tkm3rd]

I've been watching your channel for a while now, and have to call foul: the cheap pressed clasp has always been a bugaboo for you Jody. I don't get the reason you gave this one a pass. In my opinion, the Invicta Pro Diver with the Seiko movement offers more for a LOT less and even has a pressed clasp! Another thing: what is going on in your studio? Did the A/C fail and it's too hot for clothes under the hot lights? Was there a chemical attack on Australia, and you needed to wear a gas mask? LOL! Enquiring minds want to know! Having said all that, my sweetie and I really do enjoy your videos immensely; keep up the awesome work. Cheers!

[@jeffreybowden9835]

Really nice looking $500 no name piece with a few issues.

[@MrShoryuken1]

I can't say I give a monkey's chuff whether Hermes made the leather strap, it's a dive watch. That leather strap would come off immediately, never to be seen again...except by someone on eBay. As others have said, quite overpriced for what you're getting here especially considering the brand and manufacturer are an unknown quantity.

[@YannickKhong]

Lume shot?

[@Andrew-J316]

Nice, but you are correct, for the money I rather get an Oris.

[@DennisBible]

For the money I would prefer the Helson Skindiver.

[@lenpowell6647]

Hiya ,my wallet whilst enjoying this has ran off and hidden somewhere in protest .Great looker but that's so much cash my buttocks have already clenched several times! Cheers,Len.

[@TheSpritz0]

Meraud Bonaire is the aunt of Patek Philippe... :)

[@meraud-watches]

Now that would have been amazing! Hehe.

[@MrSlicer2424]

Uggg more kickstarter crap . Just build it and I'll consider buying it!

[@RJ-cq8dd]

Without Kickstarter only the big companies and the rich can create a watch line. Crowdfunding is a great tool.

[@MrSlicer2424]

@@RJ-cq8dd Well you go ahead and prepay for what could be. Suckers!

[@RJ-cq8dd]

@@MrSlicer2424 You have a great day as well

[@AlainPICOCHE]

J'ai vraiment cru que la vidéo était en français.... petit farceur ! ;o))

[@hitsugayat10]

Pretty pricey, I guess because of the assembled in EU factor where wages n taxes r a lot higher a lot of other countries. Not awed at all with their product

[@vojtachudoba2495]

I live in EU, and I can tell you that wages aren't higher, but with the taxes you are 100% right

[@meraud-watches]

Yes, the taxes are killing it. Especially in Belgium... Not the best country for start-ups.

[@eduardopaz780]

How does the bezel work???

[@meraud-watches]

It's a unidirectional bezel. Grab and turn!

[@meexyberries]

look similar to the baltic aqua

[@kyleleung333]

Pencil hands and the two color lume !

[@alansmith8837]

I dont get it at all for me it doesnt stand out in anyay. With the plain jane front and the cheap lookng back , it just looks cheap at anyprice much less the for the ridiculous price of over 700 bucks. Very ordinaire.

[@robwerts995]

No thanks. For that money you can get 10+ Cadisen, Guanqin, Starking watches with a comparable spec package. Not everyone has a inexhaustible source of cash!

[@RogerSartet007]

Lugs are a bit too long, imho. Very Christopher Ward-C65-ish. I like the latter better, unfortunately.

[@22Phanatic]

Those leather straps look like the Jean Richard straps from Theo & Harris that he sells for $300 +/-

[@meraud-watches]

I tried Jean Rousseau (the strapmaker for T&H) but the quality was not good enough in my opinion (I did not like their stitching, I wanted saddle stitches). It's great but not good enough for how I wanted it.

[@francismanela2344]

New vid! Yes!

[@sososofteshu3741]

le bracelet ressemble à une montre différente. C'est aussi une réplique avec un nouveau nom

[@carpandrei7493]

I have to admit that 700USD is a bit much for this watch... Hypothetically speaking, since I'm far away from really affording a 700USD+ watch, I'd rather put my money on a Halios (they use an ETA movement) though also those are hard to get, or some Spinnakers. Anyway, the design is nice, yet not 700USD or more nice. The watches catches the eye but someting doesn't click. Not with me anyway.

[@DFlemming]

Beautiful watch, but that clasp just puts me off. Pity. Great review and Thanks.

[@jn7812]

Soon as I hear the word Kickstarter, I cringe because value for money goes right out of the window. Do people really buy these, all I can say is they must be mugs. So is this really equivalent to a dozen plus Cadisens?

[@tenylegnincsevem]

dat graphite...

[@meraud-watches]

Thanks!

[@rayseaman6204]

O.K., maybe I was a little harsh in my previous comment, but I feel like I've seen these watches before... Dejavu ???

[@worldofameiso5491]

Hmmm, not for that money my old pudding. Looks like 350 euros worth of watch and not much else... not even an eta movement, instead some unheard of, and potentially unreliable movement...

[@Cal316326]

Not really unheard of if you are familar enough with the microbrand world. Stp is in the same price range as the standard eta mvt. I do own the a watch with the stp movt and it is as reliable as my other eta ans sellita mvts. But l do agree it is overpriced for a kickstarter watch.

[@MrPleers]

Why is it that so many kickstarters just copy other brands ? So disappointing.

[@atticus6572]

It's a handsome piece, no doubt about it, but the price is WAY too high.

[@rayseaman6204]

MERDE WATCH Company is more like it !!!

[@TheBadGuy1974]

That's French for shit for the ignorant or American viewers.

[@dominospizzadeliveryguy8866]

thats a very essspensive for mecro!

[@a97b18b]

Lorier would be a better option

[@DS-dd7vf]

A very plain looking piece. There's nothing happening on the dial and the bezel looks too thin, while the watch itself is too thick... Not my cup of tea at all.

[@hksigman]

Overpriced. The STP1-11 is a troubled movement. They have a high rate of reliability problems. As a matter of fact I just bought a new watch with the STP1-11 and it randomly stops working. I contacted the watch manufacturer and they said that they have had a lot of returns with problems and are backed up with repairs. They aren’t going to use the STP anymore and are transitioning to the Selitta instead.

[@meraud-watches]

All pieces are undergoing 3 quality checks so the movements should be fine. I haven't heard many bad things about STP.

[@siamwatchaddict9072]

Over the top with the pricing ..And a date version would have probably got more interest. Too much cost wasted on packaging Nice box.But I would rather have 100 bucks off the watch.. And I can not forgive any watch company who produce pressed metal clasps at over 700USD..Its just taking the p***.. As you mentioned A Oris 65 would be a wise buy... for that kind of money..

[@nort4315]

Another greedy micro producer.750 bucks for this?!They take us for idiots

[@meraud-watches]

Quite a harsh comment. I posted a reply on how the price has been decided. Thanks!

[@nort4315]

@@meraud-watches Well,sorry that you don't like my comment.This is my opinion.Thanks!

[@jurajunek5465]

A lot of harsh words have been said here in the comments today... On the other hand, although case and that “honey” strap look lovely, price seems to send out a bit arrogant massage. 😊

[@meraud-watches]

Thanks! I wrote an explanation on how the price is based in a recent reaction to the great review. I hope that helps. Being arrogant is the least I want. Kind regards, Stijn

[@jurajunek5465]

Reading your reactions to comments Stijn I see a lot of love and passion for your product.... as well ad will to deliver perfect collection item

[@jurajunek5465]

Oops, not finished yet... Standing on opposite side, for me I must say, crossing 500 with these spec is somehow emotional... Not for many others... congratulations to your Kickstarter go... 😃 But don’t forget that love can be blind and passion misleading...