5 things you need to know before you buy your first automatic watch.

[@pandel6093]

I bought a seiko5 in 1985. It cost me the half week payment. After 34 years works good. Its the first watch i bought with the payment of my first work

[@JAYJAY-ch4ik]

pan Del hey I am 23 finishing my degree soon. I have always loved watch. That was a nice short story. I will save up to buy my first watch that’s paid for with my first paycheck so that it would be memorable 30 years down the road!

[@briannhansong2851]

@@JAYJAY-ch4ik Hi Jayjay, I just personally bought myself a Seiko Save The Ocean Great White Shark timepiece yesterday. The fruit of my first job. Always wanted to buy myself one with my own money so it means something 😍

[@redblocks8821]

So did it work for 34 yrs without maintenance?

[@pandel6093]

@@redblocks8821 of course not . 3 times

[@popoymotmot]

@@pandel6093 did maintenance cost more than the watch?

[@davebirkbeck9348]

Had my Air King 26 years and its had no maintenance, works a treat.

[@AGoodVibe]

Personally, I’m a quartz guy. You can’t beat the accuracy and the convenience factor. Plus, there are some stunning quartz pieces out there that rival or outclass even the most beautiful mechanical watches.

[@AhmadBadshah-s1w]

Exactly. I have never owned an automatic watch. I do respect the charm and intricacy of the automatic movement. However, I personally prefer accuracy. Instead of taking out the phone from my pocket each time I have to check the time, I would like to have the same exact time on my wrist.

[@res00xua]

I was surprised you didn’t mention setting the hands to say 6 o’clock when setting the date as one can damage the system setting date closer to 12:00. Also sw200 and eta 2824 movements can be damaged by hand winding too often or too aggressively. Thanks

[@realbigbear]

Please share more info about the potential damages.

[@res00xua]

@@realbigbear the keyless work starts to slip. This is very common according to my watch maker and i have experienced it myself i would recommend slow use of manual winding on these movements.

[@keithhallgren]

The 2019 version of the Seiko 5 has hacking and hand wind, the older models are fully automatic and the day / date is very easy to set... part of the joy of a mechanical watch is the winding. I have a late 1940's automatic that is almost perfect in it's accuracy, and a slightly older Seiko 5 that tests out at nearly 0 error.

[@anthonyburke5656]

I bought a Seiko in 1971, I wore it every day, I wore it working on building sites, in the workshop, doing the lawns and gardening, it was a “mechanical”, I never noticed it losing time, buy I suppose I did adjust it from time to time. I chipped the face and it had some small scratches. It worked fine right up until I took it off and put it in my pocket to protect it while working and it dropped out of my pocket somehow. I searched for hours and never found it, it lasted 40 years. I now wear a Seiko Kinetic, no bitches there either. I’ve Rolex Oyster in the drawer, never worn it, at least I think it’s in the drawer, I’ve not checked in years.

[@ZviJ1]

How old is the Rolex ?

[@anthonyburke5656]

@@ZviJ1 2012

[@DavidV4444]

My Rolex GMT Master II has been on my wrist for over 11 years and still runs perfectly.

[@welfin_]

i found a watch of my grandpa from 1990's it's of ricoh , and to my surprise it still works perfectly fine but ofcourse its needs to be cleaned it has some spots now which don't look good and also the color faded even tho its stainless steel also the glass has a bit of crack

[@graemestanton5818]

I have a Seiko Kinetic which Is basically manual. Bought it about 25+ years ago. Serviced once after it’s very accurate time keeping was lost. Now very accurate again. Kinetic watches cost more than plain automatic watches but well worth it for extra accuracy if you like a watch that keeeps close to exact time.

[@graemestanton5818]

How lucky was I: Found a Seiko Kinetic for sale with awesome SALE price so bought it and awesomely accurate and it looks so good too. Awesomely happy.

[@samueljung2165]

I just wind mine whenever I wear it. It's like a ritual. using a winder significantly reduce the spring longevity anyway. But I never get one with dates/days.

[@ccooper8785]

If you are used to quartz watches then you might be VERY surprised at just how inaccurate an automatic watch can be and still be within the makers tolerances. Seiko quote +40 to -20 seconds A DAY for the NH38. Save your money and just buy a mecaquartz instead. My VH31 runs at - 0.5 seconds PER WEEK.

[@lordsirnoelmanchester3592]

Things we don't actually knew it until this video explains everything but nevertheless it's the experience of tactile moments with your own timepiece that matters. By: Lord Sir Noel M.

[@santosfontanez1405]

I have Invicta pro diver that's automatic for over 12 years no problems never been serviced

[@anthonydennis460]

I was going to buy 2 Seiko 5 watches today. However, after seeing your video, I decided not to buy a mechanical watch. I bought a Seiko Solar watch and l love the idea it will never need a battery. Solar is the future for just about everything in my opinion.

[@harrycee656]

If you want a forever watch you probably need to get something with a common midrange workhorse movement like a 2824. Otherwise, it's can get expensive. Even a Seiko 6r may be just replaced when service is needed. Good way to see if a movement is serviceable u can check to see if there are service part readily availability.

[@k.b.5089]

I been looking to get my first one and i was looking at a seiko5

[@rappers5719]

So! Would you say, battery over mechanical?

[@chrisbtoo]

I don't especially care about hacking, but the lack of hand-winding on my Seiko 5 really bugs me. Ironically I end up wearing it way more than my other watches, just because I don't want to have to re-set the time & date on it all the time.

[@sharathbhaigaming1176]

I have same brand which was purchased 40+years back . What may be its price ? And there is a littel scratch on display

[@willoconnor9998]

I would really like to buy it I would really like to buy this watch

[@elmago8268]

And a fine mechanical watch with good maintenance can last you a lifetime :)

[@kazisalam9770]

MY UNCLE give me Seiko 5 automatic jewels 21 Anyone Know the price of this model??

[@predragpopovic5056]

100 % agree.

[@Koloherides]

rolex service $600 that was 10 yrs ago

[@tomritter7695]

Service on a watch only costs more than the watch is you’re talking about a disposable watch. A luxury Swiss watch is worth servicing every 5-7 years. Seikos and others that use a $20 NH35 movement are not worth the money to service.

[@sumanthbhat1041]

We have west end orient working well since 35 years plus. best solution don't buy any watch see it on smartphone

[@viannarts]

I got an automatic Orient that belonged to my grandfather, it was in my aunt's drawer for 37 years, I picked it up this week and had it on my wrist already for 3 days and still works perfectly! I'm so impressed with it, how is it even possible? Sometimes I put it on my ear and listen to the tic tak, within all the scratches it feels like somehow my grandfather is still around, hard to explain.

[@ThePaulv12]

Yeah what a lovely story.

[@rodndrone1198]

For sometime after my grandpa passed i was able to call his phone and still hear his voice mail, it made me happy hearing his voice. Your lucky to have something that was kept ticking by your grandpas movement. My grandma basically sold everything of his when he passed, she couldn't handle the memories attached to his possessions.

[@sarahconner9433]

Welcome..... You understand...... Now... When the object causes magic or random wierd effects.... Then you have discovered the meaning of anima..."the spirit of material things"

[@ThePaulv12]

@@rodndrone1198 there was a song about that Hello, this is Joanie, I'm sorry but I'm not home

[@marmotmcmarmot2968]

what a wonderful comment. I started to get into watches just before my father died. My brother and I split up his watches. The one I like the most is this cheap Seiko quartz, it’s all scuffed up, one of the chronograph dials is rusted, and it was filthy. I cleaned it up almost completely, leaving some of the dirt on it. He wore it all the time. It’s a nice memento.

[@dani_a_biro]

Reseting the time, date and winding a mechanical watch, for me, is part of the experience of owning a watch. You have to give it atention, care for it. It is satisfying for me to check on my mechanical watches and adjust them. Such a relaxing ocupation. But each to his own.

[@berniec6546]

Very good

[@MrCivicky]

This totally changed my opinion about going for a smartwatch in the current digital age! ❤

[@hatespeech96]

I like the feeling of something running on its own. It's like something alive is going on on my waist, doing their day to day purpose, just like me, a human. It is such a meaningful thing for me. Modern watches are accurate af and if I need to know the exact time in exact second, I will just look at my phone but I prefer wearing automatic watch over a battery watch because it just gives me the joy. I don't know why.

[@rafmasulot2328]

Same

[@bestopinion9257]

Well, it is not on its own. YOU gave it energy.

[@hatespeech96]

best opinion no shit Sherlock!

[@bestopinion9257]

@@hatespeech96 Then you can understand that quartz watches are as well "on their own". Or even more. You can let them in the closet years and they still do their job. In a way automatic watches depend on you for their heart to beat. But I can understand your fascination for automatic watches.

[@alexmustata4089]

totally agree. makes you feel good and mature. your movement is powering it, nice to think about

[@dwglsmo]

We buy mechanical watches because of the engineering appeal. They have a soul that is not expressed in a quartz watch. They are interesting pieces of horological art. Automatic and mechanical watches represent art on the wrist. That is why we love them. We ignore their obvious problems and antique technology. We celebrate them as artistic pieces that are unappreciated in our day. Their imperfection is a tribute to those who aspired to build timepieces, limited in technology, that were the greatest in their day. The latest is not always the greatest. There are those of us who love what was the best in the past and appreciate the science of our for bearers.

[@desertfoxxx98]

Watches don't have a soul. I hate it when people say that.

[@dwglsmo]

@R Mack Your comment makes no sense. What does what I said have to do with anthropomorphism? And, my comment was by no stretch of the imagination, hateful.

[@ericsnyder6837]

I’ve tried a couple of automatic watches and I tire of the hassle. Resetting it when it dies and searching around for it to be serviced for less than an arm and a leg. A hassle.

[@gtv6chuck]

This is also a reason why I drive a car with a manual transmission. They are not necessarily faster or better, but they are more involving.

[@goodnluckyone4447]

David Gardner - It sounds as if you are describing a replica that technically qualifies as functional - but better for a display case than practical use. May I suggest genuine antique watches for your admiration? Most of today's mechanicals have little if anything to do with engineering artistry - similar to the functional replicas of antique firearms that can be purchased and admired - but are not seriously employed for daily use - and for valid reasons: There are modern alternatives that are simply better for the intended purpose. Not being able to manually set the day or date between the hours of 9 and 3 for fear of damaging the watch? A watch that will run down if you do not wear it for a day or two, making inconvenient time-and-date-setting a frequent ritual? A loss of accuracy in the range of plus or minus ten or twelve seconds a day? None of these are examples of marvelous watch engineering, design or mechanical artistry. Any soul these things have is the soul of the devil. There must be some other reason you like mechanicals.

[@somethingelse411]

My Seiko 5 from 1976 has never been serviced, keeps perfect time for a mechanical watch, and is a fantasic watch to wear still. I'm not saying that you are wrong about servicing, just giving my experience of owning a fantastic watch.

[@chemoautotroph]

I got my first Seiko 5 when I turned 18 years old, it was a gift from my mom. That was the year 1982. Believe it or not I still have it and it still runs, and it has never been formally serviced. Somehow the rotor came loose several years ago, so I opened it and screwed it back on. I have replaced the gasket a few times myself, it has been magnetized and demagnetized a couple of times, I’ve adjusted the beat rate also. It still runs on the original bracelet. The movement is a 7009 and the model 8930. I am also a watch hobbyist and this watch is part of the collection, so in its later years it’s been pampered and cherished more than ever. The watch has been to hell and back; it was my only watch for many years; it’s been to the beach, worn while doing mechanics on my cars, it has the scars of a thousand wars, and it still runs. May be I got lucky, but boy I tell you, if they still make them this tough you have nothing to worry about for many, many years with your mechanical watches.

[@Tome4kkkk]

It's simple. Just because some people service their automatas every 4 years doesn't mean they require it and people who got 12-20 years out of their watches without servicing are exactly the type of people who don't go around forums to tell everyone about it.

[@wibowo250473]

Thanks for sharing brother

[@michaelh.gerloff3659]

Same here: I was given a Seiko 5 as a present in 1983, never serviced and it still runs.

[@LloydM]

I think the guy is simply stating, that if you want your watch to stay running as accurate as the day you got it, you should service it. If watches are pampered, even an inexpensive $100 Seiko, there is no reason it won’t run for 20 years without service. It won’t be anywhere near as accurate as the day you got it, as the gear oil will deteriorate over time and slow the gears down. Even a Bulova Accutron to a Rolex from the 70’s still requires service to be accurate. If you don’t mind being off a min or 2 a day, no big deal. Service after 20 years isn’t required. But if it’s an heirloom, say passed down by a grandparent or parent, I would def want to get it serviced and maintained regularly.

[@383SS420]

My Seiko 5 SNZG15 lasted 4.5 years. The rotor weight fell off. But that just might get me to open it up and mod it some day.

[@michaelmallal9101]

I've invested a large part of my family fortune into an Invicta.

[@Pianoman999]

Lol. 😂

[@m3rkinfiniteofwgkta]

Is the Invicta still functioning?

[@IIIBETEPIII]

The good part about Invictia, it won’t need a maintenance for their lifetime 😅

[@hitnrun9000]

😂

[@alanroberts6918]

I have some invictas too

[@neilbailey2893]

Bought a Seiko 5 back in 1975, it has never been serviced, but still works perfectly!

[@nobbynoris]

Started working in 1975, still working today . . . Something tells me your watch never met Margaret Thatcher.

[@nobbynoris]

Maggie would have put your watch out of work straight away. Probably by looking at it.

[@thebobman69]

@@nobbynoris she would have only done that if the watch was slow, unproductive, and telling time in a unit that was no longer viable. .

[@thebobman69]

neil, was thinking the same, an uncle gifted me a mechanical watch when i was a kid, probably around 2000s, it's sometimes gone untouched for 5 year periods still works fine.

[@pspearing]

My Seiko Automatic, which I bought in around 1975, has survived a lot, but has had the movement replaced once and been cleaned once. It also got a new crystal after a motorcycle accident. It still looks good.

[@Mizoe77]

Back in 2005 I bought a Citizen Eco Drive watch. I never knew how good, durable and accurate these watches are. I basically keep it clean that’s all you have to do to it!!! It does not require a battery replacement,,,, it keeps itself charged up with ambient light!!! In this 18 years I have had it I have worn it every day and it simply works perfectly!!!

[@stratomix333]

They are great. I have 2, one with the E610 and another with the B877. They're like old Toyotas 😂

[@cjc1103]

I have a Citizen Promaster Eco-Drive that I bought in the late eighties. I had the power cell replaced about 10 years ago, but basically it just runs without any problems. Citizen Eco-Drive is like the Honda of watches, they just work.

[@RA-lh9uh]

yes but eco drive is not the same thing as automatic mechanism. i also have 10 years old eco drive and i now have a problem with charging. it does not charge to 100%. will have to get it serviced i belive

[@adalas293]

Do Citizen Eco-Drive watches have a REchargeable battery inside like Casio with a photovoltaic cell or do they not have any? Is this a completely different technology than Casio?

[@U.S.ArmyArmorVeteran]

Love my Citizen Eco Drive Promaster Diver with the E168. It's an awesome watch.

[@alanwright3172]

Nice to see someone take the time and effort to explain some basics in a simple straightforward manner. Merry Xmas Dave.

[@JusttheWatch]

Thanks Alan, Merry Christmas!

[@jamesweaver67]

alan wright I think that if you are interested in the watch hobby and want to know more about watches, please reference literature or videos from someone who has more knowledge on the subject. To my surprise, he used the example of servicing a watch that cost less than a hundred dollars. In all reality many automatic watches are more expensive and worth the investment of servicing! Keep in mind that if you have an automatic watch, you more likely have several watches, so the automatic is not constantly running and wearing out parts. Often times these watches will run accurately for many years before needing a service, regardless of cost!

[@patrickdempsey8343]

Good tips for beginners. It would be neat to see a video with different Automatics on how they can gain, or lose seconds in different positions. I have an Orient Star Elegant Classic that will gain a 8-10 seconds if I'm wearing it in 24 hours or if it's laying flat. On the other hand, it loses 8-10 if I lay it on it's side. Knowing that I can keep it very accurate most all the time.

[@DTOM45]

Hi Dave. Just want to say thanks for this video. It was very helpful. I’ve always owned a few quartz watches, but never explored mechanical watches until recently. I really love the history and art behind some of these watches and I will always appreciate their inherent mechanical design. However, a man needs to know his limitations. I realized finally with your video that I don’t have the level of attention or patience that a mechanical watch requires and deserves. Therefore, I’m sticking with quartz. Luckily, I found what I wanted in quartz; Laco entry level Pilot watches (both A & B dials) in 40 mm. I couldn’t be happier.

[@rds1978]

Ditto on this. I found this video hugely helpful as I used to think that mechanical watches were superior to quartz watches just by virtue of being mechanical. It sounds, instead, like people more than likely go with mechanical because of the craftsmanship and ritual. While I can appreciate this, I think I'll opt to appreciate them on other people's wrists. Thank you!

[@Mekaleeto_Worldwide]

My first automatic is a seiko 5 which I still own and wear frequently ( one made in japan) its what kicked off my interest and fascination with time piece collecting. I don't think you can go wrong with the 5...

[@alandennis3853]

The Seiko 5 is probably the best introduction to the world of mechanical watches, and it’s been in production for a long time. It’s got tradition, toughness, and it’s super affordable. I’ve had mine for 6 years, never been serviced, has been soaked by rain and been in extreme cold many times. Never gains more than 6 seconds a day in my experience. It still looks lovely despite the beating of warehouse work and heavy outdoor use I’ve put it through. It has these fine scratches all over the crystal and bezel that give it a nice broken in look and feel. It got me into watches because it was the first expensive (relatively, no watch enthusiast will be fooled) looking and nice feeling watch I’ve owned!

[@fero___3005]

Hi I'm very much interested in Seiko watches bro. I'm Begginer brother I like Seiko turtle models which model can I buy ?? I don't like servicing often..which model would you prefer ?

[@brokenbeyondrepairx]

i bought the seiko sports 5, go with that one it's amazing

[@DavidV4444]

@@fero___3005 I own a Rolex and an Omega, just bought the PADI Turtle SRPE99 and I absolutely LOVE it! Highly recommended.

[@MetalSlug142]

Buy seiko 5 . Buy a new one 10 years later instead of getting it serviced for more money. Stonks

[@SavedbyHim]

New Seiko's are starting to have issues and they're not cheap anymore

[@MiddleClassNaPobre]

after 10yrs it will hold sentimental value... because most watch dont lastcthat long...

[@bestopinion9257]

@@MiddleClassNaPobre I had a F91W. It lasted 13 years with original battery. It just stayed on the wrist unnoticed. I just bought another one. No need to bother with common problems of other watches. I do not care if one day it dissappears.

[@hxhdfjifzirstc894]

Finally, some common sense. Honestly, a watch is only a convenience at this point, so you don't have to take your phone out of your pocket.

[@bigbuxxx00]

STONKS ARE DOWN

[@NotThatSlow]

I only recently got a couple of Seiko 5s to play around with the idea of an automatic watch, but I realized pretty quickly that keeping accurate time is not really the point of an automatic (obviously you can spend the money if you really want to make that the point). It's really about appreciating the fact that these devices can turn kinetic energy (you, the wearer, moving around) into mechanical energy in the form of timekeeping. It requires no batteries to be replaced or charged, and the actual way it functions (e.g. the sweep of the second hand vs a quartz movement) is pretty cool to see.

[@hirad3539]

I'm wearing my fathers Seiko 5 and he bought it 41 years ago and it works perfectly

[@ToyGunnTube]

There is a jeweler in my town with a watch maker full time on staff, and I can get my mechanical watches serviced there for $75.

[@solstar4778]

Would like mine serviced what’s the name and mailing address, so I may send him mine also !

[@JeremyRicketts]

This was such work! Thanks for the thoughtful intro to mechanical watch ownership. These “5 things you should know” or “10 top blah blah” type videos are seldom useful but I’m so glad I watched this!

[@Epicus..]

I have my dad's watch. Seiko 5 manufactured February 1974. Still works without a service 🤩

[@davidcooper1201]

I have serviced Seiko5 watches that are more than 10 years old & have been worn continuously and never serviced. All of them show signs of movement wear and generally run like a piece of junk. Have the watch serviced-Clean, Oil, and Adjust the timing before you wear it out. It is a matter of common sense and the law of physics....when dirt gets into the oil it will become like a grinding compound & slowly but surely wear out the movement. All manufacturers of mechanical mainspring powered watches recommend routine service every 3 & no longer than 5 years. Pay me now or throw it in the trash later.

[@Epicus..]

I agree with you but I don't use it and it's in the drawer. Someday I might service it.

[@Trex100]

That seiko 5 is worth servicing.

[@4mageo]

It isnt :) My Seiko 5, which i bought for aprox 5 USD (really - i bought it from the Czech goverment...) broke. Probably the power reserve isnt OK. I have send it to service, they told me it will be bettr to change themovement (aprox 200 USD!) and i bought another Seiko 5 instead. But 30 % cheaper than the repair could have cost. Sorry for my "english"

[@shiraz1736]

4mageo Are you sure it isn’t fake? I mean you bought it for $5

[@4mageo]

@@shiraz1736 it isnt a fake Seiko. The price was so low, because the goverment get things from criminals or people who have died and have no childern and no one knew if the watch works or not. Its a risk. You can buy officially not just watches but also sculptures, paintings, cars, computer, houses/flats, land... But not always for such a funny price.

[@ericsnyder6837]

I have a seiko 5 that looks great but it’s now on the fritz. I don’t want to pay hundreds (first quote I got) for servicing. Total total hassle.

[@Zzzzalazar]

@@ericsnyder6837 learn how to service yourself, I did, now I maintain all my mechanical watches ;)

[@MrRaja147]

found my grand pas 50 year old watch the one he was showing in the start seiko 5, it was working fine , wore it for3-4 days then it stopped , sent it for servicing.

[@Ballad2Grave]

I still have Seiko 5 that belonged to my grandpa, it is more than 30 years old. Nevere did it broke. Wouldn't trade it for any million dollars watch. It is priceless to me. And I absolutely love it, its classic, small and just beautiful...

[@cappy2282]

That's awesome! I bet it's a beautiful watch..and really nice that it was handed down in your fam

[@hanlee5292]

I have a Jaeger Lecoultre from 2004. I wear it everyday. Still running perfect without service and not a minute has been off all these years.

[@DJUwU]

*Quartz movements will also wear out. Just because theres battery inside doesn't mean it will always turn on when there's a battery inside.* However, most quartz watches are cheaper than Automatic watches in the first place....so you will spend less money on quartz watches overall. I can buy 10+ quartz watches for the price of my Automatic.....

[@dodytris6708]

I don't mind setting a time every time I wear mechanical watches. in fact I enjoy it. It's part of hobby... of course because I love mechanical watch

[@JusttheWatch]

I find it somewhat relaxing sometimes.

[@WolfgangVonKempelen838]

I am obsessed with getting the hands in perfect sync ;)

[@hopiamongo8119]

This is what newbies don't understand. Most go into the hobby because it's cool nowadays and it's a grown up thing to do but they really don't get it. And sadly, this guy fall into that category.

[@WolfgangVonKempelen838]

@@hopiamongo8119 Everybody is entitled to an opinion I guess

[@FatherVampire]

👍

[@blobrana8515]

The watch had one job...

[@johnleonard905]

My dad gave me a 1980s Seiko 5 (looks very similar to your seiko 5 thats why I clicked on the video but it has a white dial and the crown is in the middle) that he bought back then. It has never been serviced, repaired, or opened. It still ticking today and it's pretty accurate. This, is the reason why we LOVE mechanical and automatic watches.

[@zedstib234]

My father's watch, Seiko 5 automatic, still work after 45 years no service !

[@entertainme7523]

No

[@navarrouk3487]

It is still keeping time as when was new?

[@zedstib234]

@@navarrouk3487 it's loose 2 minutes per day . Now I fixed it and it is ok

[@boyybbangalorexx]

Thanks for that info 🙂

[@hanx9970]

The things you’ve covered are the reasons I love mechanical watches.

[@panos7011]

It’s normal for my automatic watch to lose some seconds per day?

[@richardmasters8424]

My wife bought me an Omega Speedy in Dec 1999 for the turn of the millennium. I wear it every day since and I think I love it even more now - most people don’t understand.

[@jijoious]

😉Be sure to always set the hands at 🕡 before you set the day&date ✌

[@bestopinion9257]

Do I need to do so (hands at 6oc when setting day&date) if my watch is a mechanical quartz?

[@jijoious]

@@bestopinion9257 nope not really because analogue quartz only triggered the day date complications right on 23:59~00:00 other than that you may rest assured👍

[@veebeem953]

The 7S26 Seiko Movement is very robust and it easily runs for 20 years or more. So no need to service it.

[@GS-vb3zn]

Yeah, if it ever had major issues I’d just throw it out and pop in a new one considering you can probably find a new one for around 50 bucks.

[@JusttheWatch]

That's what I've heard. Hopefully it will hold true!

[@AldoFelt]

What about orient

[@florianmalet6104]

Every movement need to be serviced, mechanical or quartz. There is oil in watch movements, and this oil dry while the watch gets worn. Dry oil gives lot of problem and can damage the watch, like an pivot so you need to renew this oil. Don't wait the watch to stop running to service it, you service it to avoid problem like that. Believing a watch no need servicing is an error, trust me im in a watchmaker school :)

[@florianmalet6104]

@@AldoFelt Orient is a nice watch brand, there are owned by Seiko now but they still make there own movement ( orient movement, not miyota or something like that ). Those watches are affordable, robust and gives you a decent precision. Mako and Ray for exemple got an screw-down crown for a better waterproofing but there have mineral glasses.

[@scottlawton9459]

Good video. I have about 6-7 Seiko mechanical pieces that I run semi-regularly. My beater is a Timex Weekender, but I run whatever Seiko I feel like every so often. They’re solid pieces but I always have to set them every time I take them out. No big deal, if you’re expecting it. So that’s something to factor in. I’ve never had to adjust the time on my Timex, and a basic battery swap. So, yeah. Quartz is superior, but you buy the mechanical for the art more than anything.

[@Blake4625kHz]

An worst case EMP from the sun will take out the quartz along with everything else 🤣 but your mechanical miracle will keep on ticking haha

[@stupedcraig]

@@Blake4625kHz I just wear my sundial watch. No resetting the time or worrying about EMPs.

[@Blake4625kHz]

@@stupedcraig as your name implies 😄

[@141sharon270]

In 2009 I bought a Citizen eco drive and it keeps perfect time, only time it needs adjusting is when there is under 31 days, but as the guy pointed out I can get exact time from android phone or tablet's . It was £63 in Argos. About 2 or 3 years ago I fell in love with another citizen but it cost £525. Sadly I have been ill and lost so much weight it needs 1 or 2 links taken out, but the time stays exactly right even though it is wrapped in kleenex and in a secure drawer, even after 6 months keeps perfect time. I always use to swear by Seiko, for many years of course you have to be active for an automatic watch to work, now I am disabled and house bound I am glad of my old Citizen eco drive. Highly recommend Citizen eco drive.

[@travis3430]

Apparently it's about £60 or so to replace the capacitor once an eco drive watch stops & you should be good to go for another 12 years or so I've got a Casio with a 10 year battery also. Alot of citizens are pretty big but there are a few in 37mm for me & mu skinny wrist. Eco drives are great 👍👍

[@vmanojthomas]

IMO, Quartz is better suited for the common man, who lead busy weekdays and weekends, trying to master the work-life balance, and for whom accurate time really matters. Automatics are more suited for the laid-back.

[@JusttheWatch]

That's an interesting way to look at it! I guess I'm a mix of lazy and hard working as I've got a share of automatics and quartz pieces!

[@vmanojthomas]

I bought an automatic dress watch. I found it time consuming in the morning to fix the time after my 2-day weekly offs. It felt like I bought a master whom I am serving. I got fed up with it. Now I rely only on my Casio Edifice. It will serve me prompt for a decade. I intend to get another Casio, this time a G-shock for my rougher tasks.

[@djpaul146]

I've had my seiko 5 for 15 years and it's still working fine

[@keithburnett-i7f]

I would choose an Automatic over a Quartz Watch every time...they’re way classier in my opinion 😎👌

[@brucecoleman7412]

If you plan to spend less than about $350 for a self winding mechanical watch, I recommend looking for one with a Seiko NH-35 or NH-36 movement. They are pretty accurate. When years go by and they need service you can buy a new movement for around $35 give or take. If you are mechanically inclined, you can buy the tools to remove the back, hands, and dial and replace it yourself.

[@bron-sconcess.10]

When considering buying a mechanical watch, I looked at you SNK803 review. This watch in black, met a lot of my brief. It's an honourable hobby and I admire your integrity, working to a decent, open level of critique. I'm so glad I've seen this video, because it answers those nagging questions I wasn't sure about. Addressing them with an ethic I like and common sense too, because it's not all about any one logic really, it's personal. Sound video! Will be a key video in your series! Thanks again!

[@briganfree3656]

Thanks for the lesson. Just ordered my first automatic watch. Went for a Seiko Presage cocktail ice blue. Mainly for the look of it. Just beginning to get interested in this hobby/collector thing. It is quite addictive.

[@phillipbailey70]

It won't be your last, my friend 😁

[@MrChimino5]

How many watches do you have now

[@leifduncan5800]

ditto on the last question

[@dushancg8817]

Seiko pressage is great choice, however he is little bit more "dressy" in my opinion. Get one of these 5s (since its 4x cheaper) for that casual/every day vibe.

[@MegaAluchi]

Number 6- automatic watches are relatively heavier than quartz operated watches. I switched now to Citizen Echo Drve and I am enjoying it. Great video thanks

[@AhmadBadshah-s1w]

How your experience has been with the eco drive? What would you personally recommend? An automatic watch or a solar watch like eco drive?

[@MegaAluchi]

@@AhmadBadshah-s1w I would never go back to quarter watches. The only good thing about them is their light weight. Automatic watches are nice but some brand make them really heavy. So shop for auto watch that is Titanium or with rubber/silicone band. Also very important to look for how long it stays running if not worn on the wrist. Some can last 48 hours while others less than that. My all time favourite is the Citizen Eco Drive from, because they last 6 months in the dark. That is insane, and last really long time. Mine has a nice bluish fabric band. My only trouble is that Citizen tend to make the majority of their models big watches larger than 43mm in diameter. So if you have big wrist you would love them. I hope that helps.

[@justanotherfella4585]

Just started sniffing around ebay for a cheap (starter) Seiko 5. Spotted it in video still. I grew up with mechanical watches but sage advice.

[@LegIIAVGCA]

I bought a Revue Thommen 1853 Nostalgia Automatic watch… back in 2010.. $258 USD and $5 importation tariff tax. It runs about 150 hours a month. Keeps very good time. Never got it serviced but light use… dress watch. Original leather band wore out in 2024.

[@MrJungleman1]

Having owned mechanical watches from Omega, Longines, etc., I can vouch for the fact that the benefits far outweigh the gripes. Of course, a simple quartz or a digital watch can tell the time, but is it the same as using a mechanical watch? I think not! Mechanical watches allow you to slow down and enjoy the process of winding the watch and hearing sound of the movement once it’s wound. It’s like being in love, you got to invest time and be involved. Just like the experience of using a ball point pen is quite different from using a fountain pen. The latter demands your time and attention, which are scarce in this world of instant gratification and disposable stuff. Mechanical watches are not for everyone. But those who own and cherish them know their value. Thanks for your perspective.

[@lordsirnoelmanchester3592]

Perfect!!!

[@Subxinn]

I'm using My father's Seiko 5 it's older than me ❤️

[@rfeliciano]

I have Seiko 5 automatic since 1985, was HS Graduation gift and it's running just like the day it was given to me. I still wear it for many occasions, and has not let me down not even once. Zero maintenance since was given to me.

[@Schmidchenpanther]

Im new to this channel but really enjoy your content! Well done sir love to hear watchtalk

[@JusttheWatch]

Thanks a lot!

[@SirMopy]

If I want to know the time exactly with seconds, I take a look at my phone. And tbh I never even once needed the time down to the seconds.... idc if it’s off by 5 sec... life is already busy enough..

[@marcotada]

As a computer consultant I do have to know times to a second precision. There are lots of systems that have maintenance windows and we cannot take the system offline before the time allowed by contract, or else we have to pay compensation to our clients. Of course in these occasions I do not use my clock or my cell phone, I just use the computer time.

[@LambentOrt]

Although quartz watches make up the majority of the watches in my collection, I am very fond of mechanicals. The three that I have are vintage pieces, and I love the second hand sweep and their idiosyncrasies. It's true that they are a bit of a hassle but I think everyone interested in watches should have at least one mechanical. They're really cool.

[@giancarlom.]

@@RelaX-xi7uxhow much did it cost you to service that watch?

[@MiguelDeMarchena]

I own a seiko 5 for about the last 15 maybe 16 yrs and i love it, my dad had one for about 35 yrs until he died if i am not wrong + or - 10 seconds for month is the standard of japan watches from seiko

[@ZviJ1]

Seiko 5's accuracy can be like the best of Rolex when the watch was manufactured properly and it's well cared for by the owner, but it rarely remains as accurate as being just 0.33 seconds off a day after several months, even if it gets properly regulated. If you want that level of accuracy *consistently* in mechanical watches, you must purchase a Grand Seiko Spring Drive.

[@nobody2021]

Number one, they're not very good at keeping accurate time so if your primary need for a watch is to actually know what time it is, get a quartz.

[@william38022]

For me personally I think it would be hard to bring myself to part with lots of money to buy a watch and then even more down the road on servicing. I do have a Vostok scuba dude,,, so technically I do have a mechanical watch if I buy another fancier Wind up/mechanical it will probably be an orient star. Or I might just buy a Bulova lunar pilot and pretend.

[@damo0078]

You buy a Mechanical for Art, Engineering, Astetics and History. It's a True representation of Tradiion and Originality.

[@WolfgangVonKempelen838]

Beautifully said Sir

[@JusttheWatch]

I think that about sums it up.

[@nezabytes]

But for every attribute you mentioned, a quartz still keeps better time without the hassles. Who's got time to shake third watch!?! A solar quartz is the best movement you can buy. It's accurate and durable. It actually keeps time and doesn't die after non use. I mean really, ain't the point of a watch to keep time!?!

[@WolfgangVonKempelen838]

@@nezabytes That's a matter of taste sir, you got your's other people their's. I have quartz, solar powered ones & mechanical and I love them all in their own specific way. One more accurate than the other. If we would have all the same taste we would all chase the same woman or man. Now that would be scary

[@nezabytes]

@@WolfgangVonKempelen838 I know, but it's so hard to find luxury solar quartz watches because of sentiment that quartz is cheap and crappy. I want a beautiful watch that keeps time and is beautiful. I really don't understand this love for mechanical watches and why you would purchase one over quartz.

[@ravipeiris4388]

I've had my automatic Seiko watch which my dad gave me in 1988 for my first year in college. In 2020, five years after my dad's passing, the damn watch is still going strong, Ravi Peiris M.D.

[@watchguyAtmos]

The appreciation of a mechanical watch is definitely lost in this generation. Hundreds of years of fine-tuning have gone into a modern mechanical watch. This seemed more of an anti-mechanical watch then a promotion. There was a lot of miss information in this video as well.

[@hammill444]

Just curious-- could you elaborate? Because this video is really turning me off purchasing a mechanical watch

[@dgillies5420]

Cellphone base stations use GPS time to send out acquisition signals so you can literally sync your cellphone to the correct microsecond ALL DAY LONG ..

[@vivyiko2012]

I have had that very same Seiko 5 watch as my daily driver for over 10 years and it's still working perfectly. Never had it serviced.

[@JoseGoncalves-io5xn]

I received from my father my seiko 5 calibre 7009 from 1985 as an inheritance. This watch has worked in civil construction for over 25 years and has never stopped working with pneumatic hammers, cement, grinders, drills, 15 kg hammers, water etc. and has never been served in a watchmaker, and it still works on my wrist, any day I will give it to my son. this is the essence of a watch, accompanying us in the good and bad moments of life. and not to be in a box! Afraid of spoiling it because it's very expensive and it has diamonds and it's made of gold! this watch is priceless because of the memories it carries!, this watch cost so little and offered so much!, why? because it was made to accompany us and not to take our money. it was not meant to be art, it was meant to be respected and admired for its robustness and competence. thanks and congratulations to your channel, i wanted to see a rolex last as long as this seiko!

[@TheA2ztube]

I own three, I didn’t realize I would have to service them before seeing this video. I’m hoping that won’t cost more than $150 but I still feel good in my mechanical watch. My newest watch is a hack watch, but until this video I never understood what that meant. This was a great video, thanks for the content.

[@taotzu1339]

As a person who's a little OCD about time, I'd be constantly fidgeting with a mechanical watch to get it to tell me accurate time. Maybe I'll get one later when I retire, when time isn't as critical.

[@Atothe7420]

Movements are not that expensive anymore. Most places will do replacement for $30-$49. Can order Seiko nh35 for $20-$35. It all depends if you do love your watch or not.

[@niconeumann9378]

I owned my automatic watch since 3 weeks now and I can confirm he’s right with every point. But these are the things I absolutely love about the watch

[@c0ldc0ne]

Owning a watch for 3 weeks allows you to confirm that it requires maintenance after 5 years?

[@NeTxGrl]

I was debating on whether to get a quartz or automatic. Ended up getting a beautiful longine dolcevita quartz. One of the things that made me think about getting an automatic was I would pass it down. Then my husband said, don't assume someone would want it and that pretty much settled that for me. I understand the engineering appeal for some. I just want a well made, good looking watch and it ended up being a quartz..

[@JusttheWatch]

That's a great choice! I've been eyeing some Dolce VIta too, as an alternative to the Reverso or Cartier Tank.

[@mikemortensen4973]

I've gone back to liking mechanicals and have come full swing around. Back in the early seventies, when quartz watches were new and novel, the accuracy was fascinating to me! And you didn't have cell/smart phones that kept literally atomic time. Some of the first quartz watches were phenomenally accurate. I had an early Pulsar brand that was based on a quartz crystal that vibrated at over 800,000 time a second, which is converted by dividing down circuits to one second intervals. And to top it off it had a trimmer capacitor for fast/slow adjustments. I set it to the atomic clock radio station WWV on the shortwave radio bands and after two years, I had it accurate to within one second per year!! But to keep it that accurate I had to wear it all the time due to the need to keep it a constant temperature. I was only 12 years old and had nothing better to do than to get a watch supremely accurate. Then came the newer quartz watches that flooded the market that had quartz crystals with a frequency of only about 35,000 hertz (35Khz). Those became popular and so this ruined the accuracy potential of quartz moments forever! But now I'm back to mechanical watches again due to the charm. As the video creator mentioned, you now have smart phones if you need super accurate time down to a thousandth of a second.

[@kingofthejungle3833]

@2:45 so the Seiko 5 costs $100 and then every 5-10 years it'll cost about $100 to maintain. Equate that over the course of an adult lifetime, say 60 years, in theory you'll have it serviced a maximum of 12 times which works out to roughly $1300, that's still a bargain compared to many automatic watches.

[@Oozy9Millimeetah]

If a Rolex 40mm Explorer would drop out of the sky i would pick it up and wear it every day, service it when ever needed say like once every 5 years or so... or when needed.... Buuut since thats not very likely going to happen im happy to switch up every few days or weeks or whenever i like my humble battery run watches. Throw one in drawer use another for few weeks take back the one from the drawer it might have advanced few seconds but unless you are in command of artillery team responsible of synchronized howitzer strikes it dosent matter. So imo quarz watches are from purely pragmatic reasons a better choice and they last decades too with just a battery change... but automatic's just have that cool factor over quartz, but if you own multiple watches and like to switch up its kind of an hassle.

[@tomnicolle195]

So true about maintenance costs. I bought an Omega Seamaster about 23 years ago and I’ve spent more on maintenance than I did on the watch since then. Why do I do this? I just really like the watch and to replace it today would cost me thousands more. It still works and should be good now for another 10 years or more.

[@normanpedersen5454]

Hacking also allows you to correct a fast movement w/out moving the hands backward.

[@jacksimmonds1724]

Great video! I got my first ‘proper’ watch from my grandparents for my 18th birthday earlier this year - a Seiko 5 Sports (green dial). This is a really nice roundup of all the things I found out as I got used to using it daily. It’s replaced my Apple Watch as my main timekeeper, as despite the fact it’s so much less ‘useful’, it’s just a lovely thing to have on my wrist.

[@JusttheWatch]

Your Grandparents have good tastes!

[@jundaaaaaaaaaa]

I have an Apple Watch too, 6th gen, have been using Apple Watches since they first came out. Recently started feeling like I should get a “real watch” as I hit 20 this year. Was it a difficult transition to go from an Apple Watch back to a traditional clock faced watch? And would you recommend it?

[@ktmediavideo]

i just bought the same watch haha

[@dmac1259]

I bought a seiko automatic to unplug and tell the time without technology. Trust me, its a better way of life. Leave your phone at home.

[@nishantsatish8205]

Does the Seiko 5 sport have both hand-winding and hacking?

[@eespinosa64]

I'm confused. The title mentions "automatic", but you spoke of mechanical watches.

[@onemat2000]

Automatics are mechanical watches. A non-automatic is the type that you wind at the stem. A automatic is automatically wound by normal movement when on your wrist. Hope that helps.

[@eespinosa64]

@@onemat2000 yes it does. Thanks. I was equating automatic with quartz. I re-watched (no pun intended) Teddy's video on watch terms and it became clearer.

[@mrhawk1924]

I have 150 watches. But I love my Solar and Automatic watches never had any problems, like Tiong and Forsingning plus Invicta and Armani, Tommy Hilfiger Kenneth Cole Michael Kors and Versace, Biden and Fossil and alot more. Cheap and high end .. dude I rather wind my watches compared to changing out batteries every 2 years or less.. Especially when you got over a 150 watches like me

[@jackburtonstwin]

If we are being honest, we don't buy mechanical watches for their accuracy (there are many better options). I have a sufficiently large collection of vintage mechanical watches that I have learned to service them myself although it should be pointed out that with modern synthetic lubricants, such as Moebius, servicing should not be necessary more than once a decade, at most.

[@echandirohrmoser3183]

True. The accuracy is my least concern when it comes to mechanicals. My first mechanical watch was Swatch Irony Skeleton bought on 1999 in my early 20s, since then I have collected many of them, say Seiko, Mido, some rare Citizens (since they focus mainly on the Eco-Drive). I haven't learned how to service them myself, I would really like to. I have found that the places I sent them for service, the people are poorly skilled. One of those places, returned my Seiko 5 with the minute hand full of lubricant, really? And the other place misaligned the hour hand, when the minute hand points at 12, the hour hand is slightly forward for about 10 minutes.

[@josepht.7937]

@@echandirohrmoser3183 Misalignments, and scratches are the worst part of servicing. I went to get a Caravelle watch battery put in, only to get it scratch to the point of looking slightly damaged. I'm sorry about your hour hand misalignment.

[@JusttheWatch]

Absolutely. Will have to make another video covering why I think mechanical watches are worth the extra effort and drawbacks compared to quartz watches.

[@CrimFerret]

That is true. At their best, mechanical watches are works of engineering art. If you can do a full service on a mechanical watch, you have far more skill, not to mention better eyesight and steadier hands than I do. The one I'm saving for currently should be easily serviced by any competent watchmaker as it's ETA based, but I'll still expect that to run $200-$300 when it eventually becomes necessary.

[@jackburtonstwin]

Engineering art is an excellent description. Mechanical watches appeal to me at a level far deeper than merely being a device to tell the time with. When I have had to strip down a movement (something I try to avoid where possible), I just marvel at the skill and precision involved in their making. Even a cheap, basic movement is fascinating at 20x magnification.