Making sense of watch opinions: Hublot, heritage, holy trinity and more

Why are you buying that watch? It loses all it's value when you walk out the store!
They're not in the holy trinity!
That brands sucks. It has no heritage.
Those and other statements get thrown out to rile people up. These are my thoughts.
Hope you enjoy - Leave a comment about other statements that get you riled up and subscribe if you want to be reminded about my content.
Thanks so much for supporting my channel. All the best and CHEERS!
For collabs and inquiries: [e-mail]

[@threethrushes]

You and ID Guy are the most lucid commentators in the game.

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

Agreed

[@NicholasSadlier]

Agreed

[@MyVideosWillCalmU]

Agreed

[@HereForTheStories]

Agreed

[@oscaralston639]

Agreed

[@MyVideosWillCalmU]

It's a hat trick🔥🔥, your last 3 videos have been some of the best I've seen in this community space! It's literally a breath of fresh air!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Very, very kind of you - thank you 😀😀😀

[@MyVideosWillCalmU]

@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch You're most welcome Sir👌🏾

[@tar1895]

More thoughtful stuff. You’ve become my favourite watch vlogger in short order.

[@peterjoung3368]

Indeed.

[@brandonchang6047]

Same

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Happy to hear that! 😃

[@yafoz77]

I was fascinated to hear your take on Rolex vs Grand Seiko. I completely agree that GS's overall quality is a step up. To answer the question, yes we enjoy this type of content. Cheers.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks for the feedback. Really appreciated 😀

[@dasein43]

You’re one of my favorite watch commentators and educators. Love your content. You’re reasonable, thoughtful, balanced, informed, and straightforward. Yes, more like this. And yes, Grand Seiko is technically superior to Rolex. Better tech, better finishing, better quality, better value.

[@golfinguru11]

Inferior movement architecture. Rolex movements are thinner, more reliable, often have longer power reserves and longer service intervals. They aren’t well finished but they are engineered superior to GS. Same goes for case and bracelet, where GS is behind even inferior brands like longines.

[@rosomak8244]

Neither one has anything in common with any "value". Both are exceptionally overpriced.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Very kind of you, appreciated 😀

[@MrSchn3ll]

I would argue that the GS is not a hugely better value. I went to a dealer looking to buy an SLGH013 and it was within $1,000 of the DateJust that I walked out with. I just couldn't do the GS. It was too thick, the bracelet sucked and it didn't have the same presence as the DJ41 with fluted bezel. Maybe it's just me, but comfort is huge and GS needs to step up their bracelet before I reconsider.

[@mkyhou1160]

@@MrSchn3llthat’s my take too. Watch nerds will love GS dials and pretty movements, but when you look at case thickness, bracelet quality and add in resale, it’s no comparison. Anyone buying a GS at an AD is a fool, buy one used or grey at massive discount from retail if you love them.

[@dscotp185]

"If its worth it to you, buy it, if not, then don't" - 100% agree - perfect quote - I purchased a brand new Blancpain Bathyscaphe Complete Calendar Moon Phase (my Avatar) a few months ago from my AD with a 25% discount off total retail+tax price. ( I have a decent purchase history with them) The price I paid was definitely worth it to me. Is the watch still worth less on the secondary market after the discounted price I paid. Of course it is. However, I don't care about resale, I keep my watches, I wear my watches and I enjoy my watches. Cheers!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Excellent approach and excellent price too 😂 Cheers 😃

[@nikhilsai9613]

You are a breath of freshness. I can finally listen to someone whom I can connect with. Thank you and keep up the great work! It will be great to hear you speak about the smaller independents - an interesting segue.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Wow, thank you! 😀😀

[@TechPanzer]

Brand heritage is only important to me when the brand is putting in-house movements in their watches. If I'm paying a significant amount of money on a watch, a product that lasts for a lifetime, I need to be sure that said brand will still exist in the future if I need parts for it. I sincerely don't know if Habring or Nomos will exist in 20 years to service their proprietary movements, but I can be sure that there will be a watchmaker to service the Sellita SW200 inside a Christopher Ward. Especially since, unlike Seiko for example, the aren't producing hundreds of thousands of movements per year, because even if Seiko dies tomorrow there are a myriad of parts that will be available for a long time. Sure, nothing GUARANTEES that Vacheron will be around 30 years from now, but the probability of it going under when compared to a brand created in the last 10 years is far, far smaller.

[@void1984]

A heritage guarantees a vast portfolio of great moments for rerelease.

[@DavidUKesb]

Vostok have great heritage and have in house movements.

[@void1984]

@@DavidUKesb They don't take advantage of that heritage. Their current models are ugly dinner plates, and they mostly use Seiko and Epson movements now. I don't see in-house movements anymore on their website.

[@Sumerdini]

Heritage is a "limitless" & a "superior quality" repair service, IMO.

[@JanH80-pm5bw]

I think there is huge niche for new businesses to create copies of the parts.

[@jeffee1933]

Man, I must say your videos have been an absolute refreshing KZbin experience. Keep up the great work. Small niggle: there is a small but important difference between Investing and Speculating. There is no need to attribute intelligence where it doesn’t come into play.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks 😀😀

[@DavidUKesb]

Brands like San Martin, Baltany, Vario, Phoibos and Proxima produce many watches of stunning value, which would have been unheard of at their price point even ten years ago.

[@woozertoo]

Much as Seiko detractors will say, those brands owe a debt of thanks for the advantageous economies of scale, accessibility and relatively easy serviceability of the NH movements within many of those companies’ offerings.

[@NicholasSadlier]

Agreed. Having bought a San Martin I wouldn't want to go back to a Pagani Design. While my Paganis were a bit of a guilty pleasure I'm not a bit ashamed of my San Martin - whole different level.

[@JanH80-pm5bw]

All great brands. I can only imagine how great they will be in 10 years.

[@guidoruetter2198]

Great video! The only point I disagree with is regarding longevity. While nothing is guaranteed, it is far more likely that a Patek is still around is 50 years than newer brands like Christopher Ward and the likes.

[@hibernopithecus7500]

@@guidoruetter2198And I think that’s his point; “more likely” doesn’t mean “guaranteed”, but many act as if it does. A war here. A pandemic there. A recession or depression all over. The expansion of smart watches into more market segments. China. In evolution it’s the specialists that emerge from the rough end of mass extinctions, and it would be a mistake to think that just because these brands survived the quartz revolution, that they’ll weather any storm.

[@chriscardwell3495]

Great insights - we all have our own view on the ideal design . . . which may change with experience, products manufactured and price. My main guiding criteria are . . . a) thin, b) can be serviced locally at a reasonable price within a month, c) accurate, d) like the design, engineering and ethos of the company e) Aligns with image and values I am happy to live up to

[@borassictime918]

Yeah, story, schmory. Objectively heritage is a marketing tool and in itself means nothing, its a comfort blanket to smother that nagging feeling that the watch you’ve bought isn’t actually worth the huge SRP you just paid. To paraphrase Debbie Allen; you want heritage? Well heritage costs and right here’s where you start payin’…in cash. Besides which all ‘heritage’ brands have changed hands multiple times - even disappeared completely for long periods of time eg Blancpain, Adolf Lange & Söhne. The past really is no guide to future outcomes. And don’t confuse heritage with brand awareness. We take assurance from brands we’ve heard of, that we associate positive attributes with, that’s why millions spend £800 on a (no heritage) Apple watch.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks for sharing 😃

[@marquisdaily7715]

I appreciate your perspective. We should focus on the now-and-then our wallet can afford. I used to buy homage brands for fun but at the current state of my collector’s journey, less is more. Between two watches I like, I would rather save and lean towards established brands and reputable resellers who will service them. However, comparing the value of a watch brand and a sport club doesn’t make sense to me. Sport success or failure is on full display at every tournament, during every season, but not for privately-owned watch companies. A NBA career lasts 4-5 years while a watch model can remain profitable for decades. The cycles of both businesses don’t have much in common. Cheers!

[@shuycg]

Czapek's relevant heritage is doubtful, like Moser or ALS. They have a heritage name, and some very old back catalog to draw design cues from, eventually. There are others, like BlancPain and soon Universal Geneve that have more relevant heritage, because they've been building top end, famous wrist watch models. Then there are those that manage to build their own heritage from nothing, like MB&F, De Bethune, Journe... Patek, Vacheron and AP haven't built their own movements for a very long part of their history. Then you have Breguet that have been building their own movements for most of their history, while recently, relatively speaking, they had to incorporate another movement builder to bring that knowhow inhouse again. Then there are Longines that have, for too long played below their heritage. Breitling and Tag are guilty of this as well, although not as great as Longines back then, reaching higher in the last few years. Finally, are there brands that have a perfect heritage. That have been building notable watches, including the movements, consistently across their history?

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Interesting perspectives on the heritage discussion. thanks for sharing 😃

[@pragmatist7455]

Thank you for this mythbusting episode. People love to parrot things they've heard without actually researching or experiencing things for themselves. Please continue promoting critical thinking.👏

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Will do my best, thanks 😃

[@renebense]

One important issue was overlooked in your analysis. A brand like Omega or Rolex has a factory that produces consistent high-quality watches. A new design will probably end up in equally high quality because the same production facilities are used to produce the newly designed watch. Handcrafted watches are different. You have to invest constantly in highly qualified and talented watch makers. If they are simply not available anymore, you run out of continuity in production output of highly qualified watches very soon.

[@vons3745]

That is a valid point. But here is another way to look at it. Listening to the sound of a cello on a electronic keyboard by a musician is totally different than someone playing on actual cello. Craftsmanship takes years to master but what goes into it is the heart and passion of the maker. That organically transfers to the owner of the watch. The image of the maker sitting hours and hours just to get that fine detail right is extraordinary. When you know that you own something like that, its much more appreciated. Yes, it will be hard to repair down the road but that is the trade off. But it makes it that much more exclusive. I know it may cost a little more and after. I may need a expert to repair my watch but that makes me appreciate more. I can remember going to a concert and hearing and seeing the musician give their heart in performance. I cant remember any from hearing a cello on a keyboard. Grand Seiko makes around 30K watches a year, Rolex makes approx 1M? There is exclusivity in that. Alange makes 5K a year and Patek makes 100's of thousands a year. I'll take GS and A&S anyday.

[@smgeraldo]

@@vons3745Agreed.

[@affegorilla1299]

Just bought my first SINN the 103 Klassik 12 H and I love it so much 😍

[@ocean911]

I love your logical straight forward no BS analysis of watches and watch brands/industry. Keep up the good work!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

I will try my best. Thank you 😀😀

[@chrishoyt7548]

All valid points and you hit the mark on all counts. I never paid attention to marketing flannel and such. I pay attention to quality, function, longevity, and a fair price. These have always held me in good stead. Another excellent vid. Prima! Regards, Chris

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Well said! 😃

[@robertcurtis513]

I'm a former Bain partner and fortune CMO. I find your channel fascinating and methodologically familiar, and very insightful,. Thanks for the work!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Very kind of you. It does so happen that I have been forced, on occasion, at my "real job", to structure my arguments in a logical and consistent way to assist others in making decisions. It does bleed into my videos and the topics I cover for sure. Don't miss the long hours of where I learned to do it though... 😉 Cheers 😃

[@MeestroDavid]

I fully agree with your assertion that we should judge brands on what they’re doing now rather than what they did-good or bad-before. The conversation around “heritage” is sticky because the heritage we give so much value to is most often built on fiction and marketing rather than any actual continuity of production techniques or product philosophy handed down through generations. Longines and Hamilton are both brands marketed almost exclusively through the lens of “heritage” when they’re in fact just labels under Swatch who haven’t had manufacturing facilities or R&D teams of their own in decades. Likewise, when a storied brand is bought out by a fashion conglomerate and new leadership, systems, and goals are installed, what difference does that brand’s history make other than a logo and some old designs to draw inspiration from?

[@dr.kevinmoore8889]

Honestly the difference is that the name itself has value.

[@eblank04]

Your reasoned approach places you at the top of my "must watch" list. Thanks.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Glad to hear it! 😀

[@MegaThucydides]

Thank you for piercing the bubble of the "holy trinity". I always thought it was a contrived, possibly internet-generated concept. Like a lot of "rules" that the current generation who has little idea of how things were done in the mid-century now hold dear

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

And thank you for dropping by 😀

[@raphaelcavina6138]

From now on you are in my favorite watch channel . Thank you for work 🙏🏻

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Glad you enjoy it! 😃

[@edwardbudriss4475]

Just want to say I very much enjoy your content and perspective. TY and keep it coming.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

I appreciate that! 😀

[@deltropico7]

I enjoy your channel very much. I find your opinions coherent and eloquently worded. Thank you for sharing

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

So nice of you 😃

[@dr.kevinmoore8889]

Outstanding commentary. A lot of wisdom there and the footage is epic. I seem to remember you having harsher words for Hublot in another video and you seemed to chide me for basically saying that I don't consider paying retail with a 20% discount anything but great for my Hublot Classic Fusion King Gold Titanium.

[@nedflanders3769]

Your commentary and analysis is always so balanced, well reasoned and logical! ❤😊

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thank you - I try to deliver something relatively coherent and not completely "out there" at least 😂😂

[@andrewtaylor9799]

Educating and useful. Thanks for comments on Grand Seiko.

[@Robert-vw3od]

I’ll go a long way with the first few minutes of this. if we are going to take the value in watches like the Royal Oak , it’s very unfair to dismiss brands like Maurice Lacroix, ultimately they are from the 1970s, like the Royal Oak and without it AP would be nothing, but some very distant memory. If we are going to put any value in a brand like Hublot or the dreadful Richard Mille then we have to be willing to say 50 years is a long time. I totally agree it’s about the products you make now, Rolex in truth are not a very prestigious brand they have made it that way, with incredible marketing and advertising. They had a name and an emblem that stuck , but everything came from somebody else, apart from the word oyster. on the subject of Christopher Ward, they are undoubtedly going to clean up during the economic hard time We are now starting to experience and the point is many of their products are fantastic as good as products that are 2 1/2 times the price in many shop windows.

[@c.s2001]

The thinking mans watch reviewer. I tend to watch you not because of the topic in question but just to hear what comes out of your mouth. Thankyou for your Experience, Knowledge, Training and Education. You are to me, The Watch Expert.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Very kind words - Much appreciated 😃

[@DocMulholland]

Great food for thought, as per usual 👍🏼 My two cents: - 100 years from now there still will be a Rolex vs Omega/GS/Zenith - debate. Everyone is entitled to his/her opinion, but I just don't get the omnipresent fanaticism. They all have amazing watches and I'm happy to be alive in these times 😊 - The term "holy trinity" is completely outdated. Yes, all of them survived the quartz-crisis and emerged with a luxury sports-watch with a JLC movement. But nowadays it's like saying, the three greatest car brands are Rolls Royce, Bentley and... Bugatti (AP). It just doesn't make sense anymore to reduce the industry like that. Maybach (Lange) would be more appropriate, but I digress 😅 - I don't want to offend anyone, but I actually bought a San Martin last year out of curiousity and it was of terrible, terrible quality. I am no "watch snob", mind you. Maybe it was just a lemon.

[@jamesgreig8796]

Another informative and fascinating video. Thought provoking and so different to the run of the mill ones out there. Great stuff, well done!👍

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thank you 😃

[@michaelwalters2390]

Consistently informative and insightful.. I really look forward to your videos. Keep the variety of content coming.:)

[@AlexanderMorrison]

Absolutely great video and insight that needs to be spread far and wide in the watch community 🙌🏼

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Much appreciated! 😀

[@jasonsmith1375]

Always enjoy your content. Thank you.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

you're welcome 😃😃

[@housekarl5786]

...Re the Holy 3..it wasn't a long winded explanation, it was well summed up..VC have been riding on the coat tails for too long..final comments re changing the strap on a piece and flippers, a Cartier for example really pops on coloured leather and as for flippers, we all no doubt dabble !!

[@johnsmith-ip3ov]

I know you’ve seen this a lot but amazing amazing content and the fact that you reply to every comment! I’ll rememeber you when you’re at a million subs

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Not every comment - but I do try to get through a lot of them. 😊😊

[@WestCoastAce27]

Great questions and agree w most of your takes. Watch snobbery is one of the sad aspects of the watch game. Richard Mille gets away w what Hublot is dragged for. Could it be as shallow as the celebrity endorsers and celebrities wearing them?

[@ttothec]

I love your content. Very educational.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks 😃

[@gavinwhite9743]

Another excellent video. You look at any brand theory, and often the back story is what gives it purpose or meaning, which aids understanding and consideration. Given that we use our emotions to make decisions, and the rational part of our brain to post rationalise these decisions, Watch brands have become a case study in emotive selling.

[@1963bamboo]

As a Boston Red Sox and Patriots fan this was an excellent video. Love you channel. 👍🏻

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

A little bit of shameless pandering on my part. (And the Sox have been the team I’ve supported ever since I lived in the US (despite living in the bay area…)

[@rooflessdriver68]

Very interesting and thoughtful video. I'd not seen your channel before, but saw the comment about Hublot in the title, which drew me in. (now subscribed) For many years i’d wanted a Big Bang and was in a position to purchase one in sept 22. Tried it on and hated it. However, they had the newly released Ceramic Black Magic and it's been my favourite watch until recently getting a Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch. I’m glad I didn't know about “Hublot is trash” as I might not have found it.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Lol. 😂 Watch enough youtube videos and you'll hear "hublot sucks" on a regular basis 😃

[@darrenhojnacki6636]

Excellent points throughout. Great video. I like VC more than AP, but then I like GO more than A Lange

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

GO vs Lange - now there's an interesting match up 😀

[@BenNS1971]

Before I go on a rant, I have to say I really appreciate your videos. You don’t catch our attention with anything else but your ideas, just sitting in your chair having a conversation with us about watches… and your views are brilliant, in my opinion and I have to say that yours is presently my favourite watch channel. That being said, I’m fortunate enough to own both Rolex and Grand Seiko and have owned JLC. Though I regret selling my JLC, out of the 3 brands, it was the most disappointing (maybe I was just unlucky) between Rolex and Grand Seiko, though Grand Seiko does do somethings better, I’d have to say that, overall, Rolex makes the better watch ( but that’s just my opinion). Now if I had to state my favourite brands they would be Omega, Seiko/Grand Seiko and then Rolex. As an honorable mention my 4th favourites would be Habring2 and Vacheron Constantin, so I really don’t think that I’m being bias, just my honest opinion.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thank you for the feedback. Really appreciated 😃 As for GS vs Rolex. I do tend to agree with you. That's why it should probably get a full video. GS is such a very different beast than Rolex. Rolex is 1.2 million incredibly robust, long lasting, well built watches. GS is high beat movements with stellar accuracy but also annoying service intervals. GS is multiple case finishings but also sub par bracelets. Rolex is sports watches. The best GSs in my mind are the pure, simple dress watches. Not the divers or shunbuns or whatever. And JLC - I've owned four. Every single one has had issues - with misaligned hour hands, moonphases that didn't move and reactions to magnetism that shouldn't have been. They look stellar though.... Cheers 😃

[@BenNS1971]

@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch thanks for the interaction… I really appreciated it. Top notch! Cheers! PS. I agree 100% with your perspective on Grand Seiko. Just one more thing… last month I picked up a neo-vintage Zenith Elite with the caliber 680 form August 1999 (same month and year I got married) and, so far, I’m over the moon with it… really enjoying the watch.

[@underachievingwatchcollect1878]

Sorry to hear about the bad timing on your EV purchase Mike.😎

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Damned Elon and his price discounts .😂😂

[@JJ-gb6nx]

GS vs Rolex yes please!!!!❤

[@user-cg7tw5yc9n]

Thanks for your vid. As for the heritage: I'd wish you were wrong but I am afraid you aren't. And very right about the Blancpain FF I really tried to like it. The history is amazing and it looks good on pics.. but it's not feeling well on the wrist. Also, the FF has (apart from some limited editions and the monstrous Tech Gombessa) lost quite a bit of its toolish look being too glossy

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

You're welcome and thanks for sharing as well 😃😃

[@billwayzata]

I really like your reviews and discussions.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Happy to hear that 😃😃

[@Yorkiepoocharlie]

Good stuff!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks for the visit 😀

[@affegorilla1299]

At the moment GO and Zenith are my favorite watch brands. About 3 Models of each catalog are on my watchlist 🫣

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Looking forward to the Zenith Triple calendar? 😃

[@xnerdlabs6663]

I love it when someone speaks logic that is backed by immense knowledge and purity. This exact video should be taught to watch newcomers up front. I almost agree with all the points you mentioned especially AP being a fashion forward brand rather than a true trinity. But I still believe VC's perseverance and hardship to stay on track as a trinity is admirable. It's not extravagantly priced like AP or PP and also not out of reach.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thank you - very kind of you. And... It's ok to not agree with everything I say - Part of the fun for me is hearing other perspectives and being challenged on my angle 😀😀

[@AMF_1]

Very informative and useful content, your video are 5/5 !

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

So very kind of you, thanks 😃😃

[@guclumelek79]

Yesterday, I was in a dealer to just kill time while waiting my wife in the other shop and just saw & fell in love with 43mm Longines Legend Diver special edition version in copper color, then I saw a 38mm Hamilton Khaki Murph version. After putting them side by side, I ended up buying that Hamilton even though I could easily pay that 4x price for the Longines. So, you're right about the general view. I felt that it's not that important what you can buy or even what others think when wearing a timepiece. It's about YOU, and whatever makes you feel good is the watch you should purchase and wear. Thanks for the great video and insight as always :)

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Good choice on the murph - It's a real fan favorite 😊

[@johanvandersandt8904]

I agree with you on heritage. Its a great indicator and it certainly has value but its not the be all and end all. That's a very good point. Companies like CW would be far more open to ideas than established brands. Whatever you bought is better than a Tesla. The build quality of those things are atrocious. I have not seen all Rolex models but I have handled a few but I have only seen two GS's in person... The Snowflake and one of their birch dial ones. They were magnificent... and dare I say it ... nicer than my Day/Date that I owned at the time. I would love to add a Fifty Fathoms to my collection! I love the look of it but I would never in good faith be able to part with that asking price. Homage brands are the bread and butter of the watch enthusiast. You cant beat them on price vs specs. Have a great one Mike!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Every considered buying a snowflake or birch? IF so, which one? 😃

[@johanvandersandt8904]

@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch That would be super tough to decide. I would probably try to get one pre loved but I think I would go birch. Grand Seiko SLGH011 is the prettiest one for me. How about you? Anything you would like to add to your collection that perhaps doesn't have the pedigree of some established brands but has a whole lot of character. For consideration, I would also if I ever come across one and I have the funds available try to get me one of those Citizens with the washi paper dials. They are astonishingly beautiful. Have a fantastic week Mike!

[@kaunas888]

I would not pay some massive premium for a Ford or Citroen or even Mercedes car just because they were companies around in the early days of the car industry in the early 20th century. I might very well prefer a Toyota or Hyundai which are much younger companies but may offer better value, quality and engineering. Paying some huge premium for what a company did 150 years ago is silly. I am interested in what a company can offer me today-not decades ago.

[@thewatchvortex]

Thanks for the sober perspective on homage brands! I wish more people were as levelheaded when it comes to this topic. That said, you are doing a phenomenal job in general and are probably the best watch channel out there offering commentary. So keep up the good work!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Very kind of you - I try just to speak my view on things and when it comes to opinions on watches I try to keep in mind that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, not in the eye of those that judge 😃

[@michaelrost3646]

Great video. I'd love to hear your more detailed thoughts on homage brands including some examples of your suggestion about putting homage watches on different straps.

[@angikarchmer5633]

Very much spot on today sir.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thank you kindly 😃

[@TL-ph5wg]

I agree as regards to GS - if they improve on their bracelets, it would be even better. Will they ever?

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Pipe dream 😂😂

[@zohebzanepiranditta5549]

You are the only watch channel that is not totally biased towards Rolex, AP and Patek. Although I love the classic 39mm Royal Oak, APs current marketing and collaborations is no different to Hublot. It would be great to see a video why recent AP and Hublot have more in common than differences. Likewise would be great to see a video JLC vs PP e.g. why is PP precoeved far more superior and is it the case. What do you think?

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

thanks - I have my own favorite brands, but I do try to keep some level of distance to them all. I've got some ideas upcoming that might cover something similar to the topics you're suggesting. Stay tuned 😃

[@davidb5720]

Brilliant perspectives. I must say though that VC are my favourite from that trio, because they’re not seen as a fan favourite. You get beautiful watches with as good quality, or arguably better in some cases, without the limelight. Win win for me. If I had the money 😂

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Same here. If we had the money 😊😂😂

[@davidmulligan42]

Another good analysis. I regard any money spent on a watch as a sunk cost. I have a few that I've bought and decided I didn't like, but I try to buy well and usually don't lose much on them. As for watch companies sticking around, just look at the stock market. As of 2022, only 49 companies have been on the Fortune 500 list every year since 1955. That doesn't concern me too much. I have a couple of Clerc Hydroscaph watches, and one needed a service. My watchmaker had to make a tool to open the case back, because he said he couldn't find one anywhere, as the company has been out of business for a few years now. Once he did that, the service was straightforward - it's just a modified ETA movement. I've never been much of a Fifty Fathoms fan either, except for the Bathyscaph. I did buy the Spinnaker Fifty Phantoms, though...couldn't resist that one! The dial is marked "50 Phantoms, no feet".

[@bluehuenew]

A great video, loved your thoughts!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks so much! 😃

[@dalesmith7250]

Great video and great perspective. I would like to comment on the "Brand heritage" issue...I think you quickly touched on it, but perhaps missed something I would have said. I agree that brand heritage is not a definitive indicator of future success and staying power, but it's certainly the best indicator we can use as a prospective watch buyer. While a new brand COULD be around in 50-100 years, we can only make that assumption based on how the brand is perceived at any given moment, as with any brand. But, at the very least, brand heritage and history indicates that there is some form of proper decision-making and business knowhow that allowed them to have such longevity; it increases the likelihood that the brand will continue to thrive and can provide that buyer with confidence when considering purchasing options. I think it's a better indicator than anything else we could come up in terms of providing confidence in the purchase.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks - and true. It's not a guarantee but it's not unlikely that gives a reasonable indication. 😃😃

[@koolpep]

First thanks for another great video….. now….You mean the disclaimer: „past results do not guarantee future performance“ is true for watchmaking? Sure it’s not a guarantee but surely a strong indication if a watch brand turned out decades of good quality watches that they are likely to continue that trajectory, of course until the don’t - and then you might get burned. The old brands had many generations in which they were able to get the mindshare and marketing influence to be seen as luxurious, high quality, iconic and eternal. You can’t say a new watch is iconic until many decades later it can be established that it indeed is/was iconic. I wore a 51 year old Omega Seamaster 176.007 today and it’s crazy how good that watch fits in current times.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Absolutely true - indication. Yes. Guarantee? No. Agree on the icon piece is as well but imagine buying some random watch today and not knowing that it will turn into an icon down the road? That would be cool Cheers 😀

[@bbrebozo6417]

I agree on the GS vs Rolex thing. Better value for what you get (if you can get it at all from Rolex), less aggravating to buy, spring drive is way more accurate (important for picky types that don’t like to reset their watches every week), and GS don’t look Swiss so there’s less risk of being mugged.

[@pierrecadieux6037]

Another original and quite enjoyable presentation. To use your car purchase example what would you see as the equivalent of a Jaguar Xjr and xkr in watch brands and models? Keep up the good work I am a fan. P

[@mohsinrao4334]

A new upload from Mike! Yay!!!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Lol 😂

[@user-mw8hw4vw6v]

Hublot's problem is that it has a $200 movement in a $10,000 watch. Full stop. GS on par with JLC is spot on.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Correct on Hublot 😃😃

[@mwade6982]

Superb commentary 👏👏

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks .😃

[@dannysimenauer5745]

Mike, what is the reference number for the Vacheron Constantin featured at 16:24? It is such an attractive dial.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

It's the Cabinotiers Dual Moon Grand Complication 😀

[@jibranm5310]

Great video! Would like to see a video please of you sharing opinions on MING, Sartory Billard & Anordain 🙏🏼

[@maxinahunt8652]

I’d love to have an Anordain but I won’t give them a deposit for a watch I won’t get until 2028…. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@jibranm5310]

@@maxinahunt8652 that’s fair. I’d give 50% deposit at most for 6 month wait since smaller independent brands need capital at times to make a watch in higher numbers. Years is not acceptable.

[@ramdev5173]

I actually agree with you that GS is better than Rolex. Nevertheless, I own a watch from both brands and am equally happy with them.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

As you should be 😃😃

[@Sumerdini]

Best stuff as always 💕🔥💕

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

You're the best! 😃👊

[@oliverwiegand1690]

Thank you for the video! The Hublot with a Sellita movement for several thousand euros is - sorry to say it - a marketing concept for nouveau riche money. The watch is in no way worth it... But that also applies to many other hyped and overpriced steel watches...;-)

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Agree on the Hublot angle in terms of value and specs 😃

[@clintonshiells3095]

Everything was eminently reasonable! Nice video

[@dannysimenauer5745]

Mike made an interesting comment that got me thinking about who is responsible for Rolex designs. Mike mentioned that "a watch designer would be attracted to Switzerland, and added that designers would be attracted to the big brands like Rolex." Except for the Cellini, the models that Rolex designs and manufactures are very similar, and really only differentiated by their purpose as a tool watch or the added functionality like a date or chronograph. So if I am a young Gerald Genta why would I want to go to Rolex? Then I thought what is the process that Rolex uses to make a new model? Does anybody know given the secrecy that surrounds Rolex? If you do, please share.

[@JanH80-pm5bw]

I think Genta would buy his own CNC machine.

[@rabtrekker]

Excellent video, thank you! I see marketing as a vehicle to get money from your wallet. It's wise to do your own background research, buy what you like and with conviction. There is a watch out there for everyone. Keep the content coming 😁

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Will do my best, thanks 😀

[@pslcalin]

I love your setup. Always a batman or a transformer or any kind of roboty figure. And a poster. Is there a story behind? Was that you last passion? Love your content. Cheers

[@affegorilla1299]

I love the fiftyfathoms desert date jours so much! Day and date on the 3 is beautiful to me!

[@RinMagoo22]

Great stuff!!!!!!!!

[@MADHIKER777]

I buy watches based on the looks of the design, hopefully something interesting but elegant. After passing that filter, I compare price to quality. Mostly buy cheaper watches from microbrands because that's where the in innovation is. Occasionally, I go for a bit more expensive watch. Heritage means nothing to me. I don't plan on selling any of my watches. They are not an investment, but simply a joy to own. By the way, you have a thought provoking channel.

[@NeoWahNah]

Very well made video!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Glad you liked it! 😀

[@BAF605]

My biggest problem with opinions is how they are garnered. Too many people put their favourite(s) watch KZbinr on a pedestal and trust every word they say. We are all influenced by advertising but I'd hope we can bring some judgement into play. So many don't seem to realize, or don't act as if they realize, that KZbin and other social media are method of advertising. People are being paid for what they tell you. Just keep that in mind is all I suggest. Put a halo around nobody's head. Another thought provoking video.

[@markonagy5015]

Americans: a game played dominantly with carrying the ball and throwing it = football Also americans: a game played apart from side throws and gk throws played only by foot = soccer 🤯🤪 Jokes aside, I have only recently discovered your channel through the yt algorithm recommending it, and Im binging your videos ever since. No bullshit very informative content, awesome choice of topics, your channel is a gem for watch enthusiasts. Just like Grand Seiko to watch enthusiasts. 👌🏻😬

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Thanks for the praise - glad you enjoy my videos. And as for the soccer / football thing: Go to youtube and google saturday night live "Washingtons dream". Hilarious... 😊😊

[@markonagy5015]

@@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch Thanks, will surely do. 👌🏻

[@nimravus01]

So much of what you are saying can also be applied to the world of motorcycles. Specifically, Harley-Davidson. The marketing of HD leans heavily into them being around since 1903 while all other (American) brands went under. And the HD customers eat it up. Also, the resale value always comes up in a conversation about whether or not one should purchase a HD over any other brand. Also, any new brands struggle in the space because they have to go leaps and bounds above just to prove themselves, while HD more or less rests on its laurels. I guess what I am saying is that the problem isn't unique to the watch world.

[@mim5560]

Great content Keep going 💪💪

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Will try 😊😊

[@waterfordrs22]

I like your take on Grand Seiko - Rolex - JLC. Reasonable conclusions. That said, I’d suggest Grand Seiko’s best lines are Elegance and Heritage. I own an SBGW269 from the Elegance collection, so I’m a bit biased, however that’s because the watch exceeded my expectations. It’s Grand Seiko’s aesthetic distilled to the essentials. I’ve grown bored with tool watches in general, but as a general rule, the more towards tool watch GS heads with a given watch, the less I’m able to relate to their aesthetic.

[@gfxdaddy]

In my opinion GS Spring Drive movements are a different beast to traditional escapements and are technically impressive - but it’s an apples to oranges comparison. When you compare apples to apples (Hi- Beat to Superlative 31XX or 32XX) Rolex’s take my vote.

[@PanSearedRibeye68]

Yes, Grand Seiko is the thinking man’s watch. Wearing one whispers, Yes I could wear a Rolex but I’m different. I choose to be an individual.

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Lol. Love the imagery .😂 Reminds me of a monty python sketch. "You are all individuals" Crowd chants: "We are all individuals"

[@douglascohen2521]

Great video!!! GS Al the way!

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Bingo 😃

[@catsteeth]

There's certainly a lot of herd mentality among the online watch community. Outsourced thinking in the form of soundbites. Like "Hublot is trash". Who trades on that easy sentiment, I wonder?.. It's nice to hear cogent and independent thought. I'm almost sorry for it. For it seems I agree with everything said. Then again, if you can hold both sides of an argument in your head and apportion their relative merits fairly, that often happens. Officially, my favourite YT person. Please keep it up 👍🙏

[@pascalp.]

Greatest content of the watch comunity !

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Very very kind of you 😃

[@khronokraze]

I feel a few levels wiser after warching and listening to your videos. Same still applies here. Have nothing i would disagree on.

[@kaunas888]

Richard Mille and Hublot are new and very expensive watches and no one seems to worry that they have not been around for 150 years or more. It is a nice plus if a company has a long and impressive history...but I am not going to pay some huge premium just for the privilege.

[@charlyvanbuuren2947]

Tissot 1853...

[@RobKristjansson]

Great video (as always 😀) Mike! Quick note - your thumbnail has a typo (OPIONS 😁).

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

You're right.... 🤦‍♂️

[@RobKristjansson]

@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch I've got your back, sir! (Plus, it's the least I can do, considering my latest thumbnail is an "homage" of yours 😬 😊)

[@woozertoo]

Whew! Horological shots fired, and it’s not even 30 seconds in yet 😅

[@Mike.thiswatchthatwatch]

Lol. 😂😂😂

[@Anirossa]

Got a SeaQ homage in a slightly smaller size, with a boxed sapphire, highbat seagull movement that has some nice (for a eta) decoration, that runs within COSC in 4 out of 6 positions, fully lumed beezle that lines up perfectly, better QC than my Seiko prospex and a solid oyster style bracelet with a proper on the fly adjustment. The applied markers are also beautiful, and the lume is on pair with my seiko prospex. Its a good time to be a watch entusiast. If the Seaq keeps its small size, maybe shrink a bit more and get a see through caseback I might consider it one day, otherwise I am very pleased with my Chinese homage brand alternative that I got for 240 euros + VAT 😂 Currently got it on a nicely tappered German Rios1931 strap, its a stunner 😍