Octopus Kraken OCT05 (Seamaster Homage) 4K Watch Review

[@watchreviews4k]

Octopus Kraken on Octopus Kraken Ali Store on AliExpress: www.aliexpress.com/item/1005002046345043.html?spm=a2g0o.store_pc_groupList.8148356.3.529a694duMhmEV Use discount code "WR4K12345678" for 8 USD off.

[@JJ-mv7rb]

I have had the NTTD version of this since August. I agree with everything you've said in this review. This watch is superb, and in many ways I prefer it to the original. Nice to see it getting some coverage. I was actually the first person to order one and leave a review on AliExpress, so I didn't have any reviews at all to go on when I bought it - I was taking a chance, but I'm glad I did. The dial is cleaner with less text than the Omega. The solid hands and coin edge bezel and solid lumed triangle (no pip) are improvements, in my opinion - I think the beveled bezel and skeleton hands on the Omega make it look dated to the 1990s, where the Octopus is more timeless in appearance (the Planet Ocean is the better looking Omega these days). The font used on the bezel is thicker/bolder and more striking than the Omega. Additionally, I prefer the fact that the lumed minute markers on the Octopus only populate the first quarter of the bezel - it looks cleaner, and the dial on the Omega already has minute markers, so putting them all around on the Omega feels redundant and makes it look too 'busy' by comparison. Lastly, the NTTD Omega has an aluminum bezel insert, which I find to be a questionable choice. I know that at the end of the day it's still an homage watch, but how often is it that an homage brand surpasses the original in design execution? IMO, this is what the actual Omega Seamaster should look like today. It's more modern, more refined, and better executed than the watch it's homaging. I've only seen that with Seiko homages before (and that's low hanging fruit by comparison). The PT5000 has a higher beat rate than Omega's Coaxial, and mine has been keeping time at a phenomenal +1.6 sec/day. I don't recall if you mentioned this in the video (perhaps I missed it), but Octopus also offers a SW200 version, for those who are cautious about the PT5000. By the way - you mentioned Octopus regulating the movement. Do you know for certain if they're actually regulating these? If so then that's an excellent added value for a Chinese microbrand. I've been thinking that these shops could actually charge a bit more for things like regulation and water resistance testing. Yours is the only review I've seen that has actually measured day to day accuracy, so thank you for doing that. All in all, just about the only thing the Omega can claim over the Octopus, IMO, is the titanium case, and that's questionable in its own right due to its propensity for scratching more easily than steel. Octopus Kraken seems to be the relative newcomer to really keep an eye on. For the 11/11 sale today I ordered their new Blancpain Fifty Fathoms and their Baltany tonneau field watch, which I hope are as perfect as this one. I'm a little bummed that the Fifty Fathoms homage is an NH35 instead of another PT5000, but it does look incredible. One more thing I'll add about them is that IMO their branding is on point compared to most of these Chinese companies. I've seen some people say that Octopus Kraken sounds a bit silly, but the design of their logo looks great (with the integrated tentacled octopus in the O and on the second hands counterbalance), the font looks sharp and tasteful, etc. Same goes for their sub-brand, Baltany. Which as far as I can tell doesn't mean anything as a word, but it's a nice harmless non-weird name and is easier to pronounce than many of these manufacturers. Anyway, I enjoy your reviews and the deep dives you do into these watches. I'd like to hear your thoughts on that Blancpain homage if you're up for it - mine won't be here for a month or so.

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching. Glad you enjoyed it. Congratulations. Excellent choice. Wear yours in good health. Yes, Octopus Kraken regulate the movements after casing. I appreciate the Fifty-Fathoms homage suggestion; I will review one. Check out my community page, I will be reviewing the Baltany Seamaster 300/Submariner homage soon. Regards, #WR4K

[@JJ-mv7rb]

@@watchreviews4k I feel that the fact that they actually regulate their movements is kind of a big deal. Do you know if other Chinese brands do that? That's a big value add, at least for me, especially with a movement with great potential like the PT5000.

[@watchreviews4k]

@@JJ-mv7rb San Martin regulate their movements. See video below. Regards, #WR4K kzbin.info/www/bejne/gnSpemp9hZpnotU&ab_channel=SanMartinWatches

[@WillyMcCoy50]

The fine details are quite enjoyable on this Kraken Octopus. They got everything right at an extremely affordable price point. Another great review! WoW!

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching K. Glad you enjoyed it. Agreed, the fine details are really impressive at this price point. The wavy ceramic dial, and also brand emblem in the second hand counterbalance. Overall it is excellent quality. Regards, #WR4K

[@NicholasSadlier]

Excellent looking watch. I've never seen this one before so many thanks for the great review. I have a Bliger Seamaster homage I purchased in 2020 - this version is miles ahead of my own. The quality and finish of the more upmarket Chinese watches seems to be quite astounding now.

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Nicholas. Glad you enjoyed it. Check out my Bliger PA21 Explorer review, it may interest you. I will be reviewing their new PT5000 powered Explorer homage soon. Regards, #WR4K

[@a_embleton]

The finishing looks really good! Impressed as always with your reviews WR4K!

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Ariff. Glad you enjoyed it. Regards, #WR4K

[@YannickKhong]

The more I binge your videos the more I see the potential in aliX watches. The quality of assembly is surprisingly more present than ever before. It puts a lot in perspective. Earlier this year, I've wanted a citizen pmd56 for myself, now I'm daydreaming about those homages.

[@Steven-436]

This guy is a diamond such a gentleman and genuine, actually know him chilled a few times with him keep up the good work bud. deffo need a catch up and you can chalk that one down 😝

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Steven. Great to hear from you. The "chalk that one down" made me laugh! Regards, #WR4K

[@Steven-436]

@@watchreviews4k almost a legendary statement I'll never forget and that's for sure 😆 , hope your well bud

[@watchreviews4k]

@@Steven-436 Barney is one of a kind; his sayings were really funny. I am good thanks Steven. I hope you are well too. You must be glad to be finally finished. It was a nice surprise to see your comment on my video. Call round any time you like for a chat.

[@Steven-436]

@@watchreviews4k that they were lol he's a good man at heart I think we both seen that lol, not finished yet bud lol been extended 3 times now give me a few more months yesterday but optional so could be on it for almost 2 years 🥴 and will do deffo I'm out in the sticks again lol

[@watchreviews4k]

@@Steven-436 Sorry to hear its been extended. I remember last time I spoke to Barney he said it would be extended due to the time off during the lockdown. 2 years is too long.

[@soroka_biloboka]

this is a fantastic quality watch. I own the same in the vintage black version, it's something perfect. hardworking Chinese know how to surprise!

[@wazeandroid278]

Been following you for a while. I can wing a Rolex, but would probable not be satisfied because I tire of styles. What you have introduced is various classical styles at great prices and great quality, which from a business perspective make more sense to me. I discussed purchasing the Seamaster, but it does not hold the same prestige as our Rolex friend. This begs the question of why pay more? If anyone has an answer, please feel free to share it. Only watch worth purchasing is Rolex, but Ironically, my horologist tells me in his deep Russian accent: "Rolex is good watch, but not the best." You have a follower as I have been doing so for the past few months. This watch in green with ceramic green bezel and vintage patina C3 Super on a beige leather strap alah Paneari would be a truly Kraken piece! Be well. I appreciate the time and effort to make these videos.

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching. Glad you enjoyed it. Also check out my Omega Seamaster review, it may interest you. Good question; "This begs the question of why pay more?" The reality is this is a 300 metre dive watch with similar specification to a Seamaster; but for much less expense. Of course the PT5000 cannot be compared to the Calibre 8800; 40 hours verus 55 hours. However one has to consider the massive price difference. Ironically having reviewed both; I prefer this piece for several reasons. Check out my Pagani Design PD1661 versus Rolex Submariner Date review. I discuss the reality; a Submariner Date is a 2000 Euro watch retailed at 10,000 Euro. Although I make no secret of being a Rolex fanboy, and own a Submariner; unlike many Rolex fanboys I don't look down upon low-tier pieces like this Octopus Kraken. OK its not going to appreciate as an investment like a Submariner; however for 291 Euro one can enjoy the feel good factor of a Seamaster homage without the expense. The truth is, I enjoyed wearing this piece all day as much as I do wearing my Submariner daily. Regards, #WR4K

[@captainpugwash6889]

I bought one of these. A beautiful piece, however mine had QC issues: the applied indices are not perfect. In my experience, AliEx are not the best at resolving such issues so I will live with it!

[@watchreviews4k]

Sorry to hear that. Regards, #WR4K

[@wristwatchdave422]

Absolutely fantastic and throughly absorbing review (as always). This is a phenomenal watch for the money. These Chinese homage watches are getting better and better.I have reviewed a few homage watches but this is by far the best one I have seen. Thanks for showing it off so well. I would just like to say that your review style is extremely impressive. I really do like your methodical approach and the wealth of information you share on the watches you review. What impresses me most of all is the fact that you do it all in one take! That deserves a lot of respect. I'm full of admiration. 👏👍 Looking forward to your next review. All the best.

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Dave. Glad you enjoyed it. Yes, I have 188 videos on my channel all recorded the same way, in one take. Unlike many other watch channels I do not edit out mistakes to appear flawless; so there is a plethora of verbal, and visual mistakes in my reviews. However this "talking hands" style of presentation appeals to many, rather than the "talking head" style; as my content is 100% watch focussed. Its the main reason why my channel has gained over 2 million views. It gets easier with practice talking for circa 15 minutes straight about a piece. When I started my channel I decided to make the kind of watch reviews I would enjoy watching myself. Keep up the good work on your channel. Regards, #WR4K

[@wristwatchdave422]

👍

[@MrShinobi797]

Wow...talk about Value for Money. Gorgeous piece too 😍

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Shinobi. Yes, the value is excellent. I am really impressed with it overall. Regards, #WR4K

[@fredoakes7441]

Buying this because of this video...blue dial/lume is stunning. Thanks from SanFrancisco

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Fred. Congratulations. Excellent choice. Wear yours in good health. Regards, #WR4K

[@JVRMR123]

Thanks for the great review once again WR4K! This watch has definitely become my #1 choice for a seamaster homage. Have you checked out the new San Martin’s Sea Ghost (seamaster homage)? Would be great to get your review on that one. Cheers

[@watchreviews4k]

No. Regards, #WR4K

[@Thor7]

Oh no, perfection personified! I'm done for sure. Great review, once again.

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Mark. Glad you enjoyed it. Regards, #WR4K

[@liquidshadow95]

Beautiful watch and excellent review, 4K. Thank you for your work.

[@benconover72]

Great review !! Just bought one, the Watchdives price came down to $265.00 with free Fed Ex shipping....bargain. Cheers,

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Ben. Glad you enjoyed it. Congratulations. Excellent choice. Wear yours in good health. Regards, #WR4K

[@vlk092]

does it bypass customs with express shipping to european countries? cheers

[@watchreviews4k]

It depends on the EU country. I didn't pay any import tax to Ireland. Regards, #WR4K

[@vlk092]

@@watchreviews4k that's awesome! For Portugal any shipments from outside the EU must pay import taxes theoretically, unless the website is already charging for them

[@waibenglam756]

Thanks for your "straight to the point" reviews. I have a Phylida PT5000. Very accurate chronometer stadards. I have been able to keep it at +/- 1 seconds for the one month I have it by just alternatingly resting it face or crown up at night. In your opinion, is the ceramic wave dial of this watch approaching the quality and finishing of the real Omega? I've been thinking of buying the Omega Seamaster 300m white version but your review has shaken my resolve :-).

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Wai. Yes, the wavy ceramic dial is similar quality to the Seamaster dial. Also check out my Omega Seamaster review, it may interest you. Regards, #WR4K

[@waibenglam756]

@@watchreviews4k I watched your review of the Seamaster and this watch side by side , sequence by sequence. To be honest, the omega dial looks to have slightly more refined laser etching , at least on the 4k video. Otherwise, finishing and brushing , I can't see any difference. So basically I am paying extra $4k to Omega for the superior movement, prestige brand name and Mr Bond . I'm shock at the quality of the high end watches from Ali Express. I liked my NTTD Phylida so much , its getting more wear wrist time than my Omega speedmaster . So I thought it time to get the real thing but now really undecided. Darn...

[@MF-hq9mq]

Great review, John. Good looking piece. Thanks for sharing. Regards

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Mario. Glad you enjoyed it. Regards, #WR4K

[@geoffreyeaston9292]

I got the NTTD version of this a couple months ago. I love it, but I wouldn’t describe the crown action as silky smooth. Mine feels kinda grainy. As I wheel it around, I can feel the tension of the spring and experience what I can only describe as clicks while winding it. I don’t know if that’s normal for the PT5000 or not. It’s nowhere near as smooth as my Hamilton H10. I know they’re different movements, but I hoped the ETA clone would be closer to the modified ETA. Other than that, phenomenal watch.

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Geoffrey. Congratulations. Excellent choice. Wear yours in good health. Yes, it is a characteristic of the PT5000; one can feel the clicks of the ratchet wheel when manually winding. This is normal. One cannot compare the PT5000 to the H10 as the architecture of the movements is different. the H10 is based upon the ETA C07.611; which is based on the ETA 2824-2. However the design of the H10 is different, therefore manually winding it feels different. The SW200-1 and ETA 2824-2 feel similar when manually winding; however the PT5000 has a different feeling with the clicking; although the design is the same as the aforementioned. Regards, #WR4K

[@geoffreyeaston9292]

@@watchreviews4k thank you for the incredibly thorough response! That’s what I was hoping to hear. This really is a wonderful watch. It currently gets the most wrist time in my collection.

[@paulhiggins8774]

Nice watch. Pity a 42mm is a bit big for me Think it would look great on a mesh strap Great review 👍

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Paul. Glad you enjoyed it. Yes, the 42mm case best suits a 7-8" wrist. Regards, #WR4K

[@jalalbelqacem7924]

Can you please review Bliger submariner homage nh35 , i do think its better than the san martin which is 3 times the price of the bliger , i love this brand and im so happy that you have the bliger PA21 in your own collection 😍❤️

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Jalal. I appreciate the suggestion. See my Community posts; I will be reviewing the new Bliger PA21 Explorer with PT5000 soon. Regards, #WR4K

[@LordSod]

That is a nice looking watch…. However that centre pip (triangle) on the bezel doesnt look exactly centre to me. Looks slightly off to the right. Other than that it’s a nice looking watch.

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching. Glad you enjoyed it. The bezel triangle is correctly aligned; it is the camera angle. Regards, #WR4K

[@LordSod]

@@watchreviews4k thank you sir!

[@tlenbit]

Thanks for a review! How is finishing of this watch compared to san martin finishing? (sn019 for example)

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching. Glad you enjoyed it. Equal finishing quality. Regards, #WR4K

[@neila7144]

That's done the bank balance for November. It's gorgeous.😀

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Neil. Glad you enjoyed it. Congratulations. Excellent choice. Wear yours in good health. Regards, #WR4K

[@ianellwood10]

Great job with the videos. Do you keep a running list of your "Champagne Watches"??? This would be incredibly helpful. Cheers mate

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Ian. Glad you enjoyed it. I don't keep a list. I would like to add them all into a playlist; but I have 188 videos now so its too much work to go through them all adding the Champagne Watches. Regards, #WR4K

[@ianellwood10]

@@watchreviews4k I might try and do a playlist myself. Furthermore, might you consider getting the Heimdallr titanium sea ghost in for review? It seems to be the consensus "other" best homage to the seamaster and comes in titanium. Would love to get your take on it, especially the matte black and cream version made after the limited edition for the new James Bond film.

[@watchreviews4k]

@@ianellwood10 I appreciate the suggestion. Regards, #WR4K

[@roman445]

Very nice review, John. You have your own special style) I have a light resistance on one of my San Martin watches and I always find my bezel not set to the central position which annoys me a bit. Do you think the light resistance is ok?

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Roman. Glad you enjoyed it. Yes, the light bezel action is OK if there is no back play. Regards, #WR4K

[@Thor7]

I just knew that I shouldn't watch this. But I did. Great review. What color would you pick?

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Mark. Glad you enjoyed it. I think the white dial, and this blue one are the best looking. The wavy ceramic dial on this one is beautiful the way it catches the light. Regards, #WR4K

[@alexandrealos5407]

I'm hesitating between this one end that Heimdallr Sea Ghost v2. What do you think? I've been reading issues aournd the Heimdallr's crown and bezel... Which one would you buy?

[@watchreviews4k]

I have a policy of only giving my opinion on watches I have handled Alexandre. Regards, #WR4K

[@Pt08020]

This is by far wayyy better than Heimdallr

[@humbukkerz]

Absolutely stunning homage and another superb review. Thanks again. Is there any chance you might be reviewing the No Time to Die version?

[@watchreviews4k]

No, I will be reviewing the white dial version in March. Octopus Kraken are running low in stock so can't send me one before. They will be making more batches of all versions after the Chinese New Year. Regards, #WR4K

[@humbukkerz]

@@watchreviews4k Thanks for the reply

[@sjonny-depp]

Wow! So nice!!!! But the shipping is crazy since last 30 days. Nothing is free, nor shipping to country or you have to pay 30+ euros for shipping only.

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Tajko. Glad you enjoyed it. Regards, #WR4K

[@corsinivideos]

Great review, sub achieved. What a cracking watch, was considering getting a sea master rep but after seeing this may have to reconsider. So I presume this takes the crown of the best homage to the seamaster out there right? Any idea how it compares to the Heimdallr?

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching. Glad you enjoyed it. I have a policy of only giving my opinion on watches I have handled. Yes, this is the best Seamaster homage I have seen. Regards, #WR4K

[@brianthomas9191]

Great review sir. I have a Phoibos Wave Master, and after watching this, I'm very tempted to order one. Do you think it's better than the Wave Master? Or are they one in the same. I'm only hesitant because I've never heard of Octopus Kraken until now. Thank you! 👍

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Brian. I have a policy of only commenting on watches I have handled. However I have reviewed a Phoibos Apollo Titanium (see link below to my review). The Octopus Kraken is higher quality finishing level to that Apollo. Also the PT5000 is a higher grade of movement. Overall its an excellent piece, with no negatives whatsoever. Regards, #WR4K kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJ7HiKuobJ2In80&ab_channel=WatchReviews4K

[@מדינט]

For someone who has zero knowledge about watch movement, is it worth getting this watch with SW200 over the PT5000 ? Thanks!

[@watchreviews4k]

Yes, the SW200-1 is more reliable. Regards, #WR4K

[@LandsoulFFXI]

How's the metal bracelet of the octopus kraken? Is it bad like Pagani? Is there any options like uncle Seiko?

[@watchreviews4k]

I don't know, I haven't handled it. Regards, #WR4K

[@publicname]

You could find plenty of options even titanium ones just search as 'Milanese bracelet'

[@serkiov]

Great review. A bit of a pity that it is not offered with NH35. It would have been cheaper and will have a Seiko movement which I prefer to a Chinese clone of a basic Swiss movement. Also the services (or rather replacement costs) are lower with the NH35. I hope they will release soon a version with it.

[@watchreviews4k]

I discussed this with Octopus Kraken. Their largest market for this watch is Asia; and they prefer the PT5000 and SW200-1 to the NH35A. I also think an NH35A version would be popular; but they are selling many with the PT5000 so won't be making it. The watch is selling so well they are currently running low on stock and making more, so I have to wait until March for the white version (PT5000) for review. Regards, #WR4K

[@SAXDAVEBOY]

I like that alot

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Dave. Glad you enjoyed it. Regards, #WR4K

[@keithrobertson8101]

Beautiful watch how much in British pounds

[@watchreviews4k]

£265 Keith. Regards, #WR4K

[@YannickKhong]

How does the build quality of this brand compared to San martin?

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Yannick. Equal build quality. Regards, #WR4K

[@jroobz]

Wow that looks pretty good! Bit spenny tho

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Josh. Glad you enjoyed it. Regards, #WR4K

[@mattimattwa9064]

Wr4k, do you prefer the blue or the white?

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching Matti. I prefer the blue as they did an excellent job matching the blue tone of the ceramic bezel with the dial. Regards, #WR4K

[@mattimattwa9064]

@@watchreviews4k yes that's a great point. I've seen pictures on the octopus Kraken website and on Ali express of the seamaster homage with the Tokyo colour way (white dial blue bezel) But I can't find it being sold anywhere, I would like to see that option also. Thanks for the reply

[@watchreviews4k]

@@mattimattwa9064 Agreed, the Tokyo version isn't currently available. Regards, #WR4K

[@captainpugwash6889]

I bought one of these...be warned: QC and customer service is poor. I will never buy another Octopus.

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching. Regards, #WR4K

[@TimothyTr43]

Is customer service really that bad? I really want to pull the trigger for this 😍

[@9118693223]

stolen design in order to sell... they are lucky that omega can not press charges against them for stealing their design ... for this price you can get a fine seiko diver , not this crap.

[@watchreviews4k]

Thank you for watching. Regards, #WR4K

[@mattimattwa9064]

Sounds like this guy owns an omega seamaster 😁 You should just be happy that you can afford the real deal sir... And at least you know that your £5000 was spent on a beautiful time piece with some heritage. You should feel sorry for us common folk that are satisfied with a mere homage of such an inspired piece... Even if that inspiration most likely came from Rolex.... And Rolex inspired from Doxa..... 😁