On the Wrist, from off the Cuff: Helson - Shark Diver 38 Titanium, The Best One Yet?

[@rerami30]

Awesome video as usual. Can't wait to get my hands on mine.

[@1000lightyrs]

Awesome review, thanks. Helped me to pick one up last week and it arrived today. Instant bonding with this one, you're right, it's just killer. Compares very favourably to my Omega Ti 2231.50 and will be stealing a lot of wrist time from my 14060M too! I got the 38mm blue dial no date LE and am very pleasantly surprised that the dial etchings are so subtle you can't see them unless you look for it. And the mat blue of the dial and bezel look super nice against the blasted Ti, then there's the contrast of the mustard "SHARK DIVER" text against the blue, and the.... somebody stop me, I could rave for ages!

[@djl2407]

I have one of these coming tomorrow thanks to this review. I have been debating since last year and this video showed me how beautiful this piece really is. I have been wanting a Pelagos, but honestly, the 38mm Ti Helson ticks every box for me whereas I always felt the Pelagos was a touch to large for me. Really excited for this one to become my daily!

[@NATHANSFLETCHER]

How does it feel now you have it? I also loved the Pelagos but went in a different dircetion at the time. This does really appeal, how does the colour compare to the Peagos?

[@djl2407]

@@NATHANSFLETCHER It's absolutely become my favorite watch. Videos and pictures do not do justice. The blue is more subdued than what I expected, definitely darker than Pelagos blue, but I prefer it actually. It wears perfectly, really feels like a 40mm piece. It's completely fulfilled my desire for a Pelagos. It's perfect in every way for me. And I am also super impressed with the Miyota 9015, so far after over 2 weeks of wear (only setting the time once the day I got it) it is less than one second fast. I couldn't be happier with it!

[@NATHANSFLETCHER]

@@djl2407 That's good to hear. Think this one may be coming my way this year then! :)

[@JackP33]

Great Review, I especially like your low light transition shots. I have and love the SD40 SS (blue/sapphire bezel) and the SD40 Brass (patina machine). Your description of the Ti not feeling 'wooden' and the overall 'heft' of the case+bracelet sold me on the Ti. Even tho I went with blue again, the fact that it's blasted, has an aluminum bezel and is noticeably smaller should make it feel unique enough to make it's way into rotation. I can see the Ti replacing my Seiko 5 SNK803 as my, "do anything while forgetting I'm wearing a watch" watch, especially with the ratcheting clasp for when it gets hot. Once I get some wrist time I'll be able to answer this myself; but I'm having a hard time believing you can feel the difference on the skin between Ti and SS. Anyway, thanks again for a very thorough review of this model; Helson owes you a nod of gratitude.

[@khronokraze]

.. I just wanted to add, if Helson read these comments, the only thing I'd like to see them improve or make standard on all their Shark Divers is to have applied indices. As far as I know, they only do that on one 40mm black dial model. It really elevates the class of the watch to see more 3-dimensional indices that have a nice frame around them... and, it's just that added detail that would solidify the deal for me. As it is, I have to admit my main drawback to the Shark Diver is the relatively flat printed indices. I mean they obviously work great in the lume department. BUT, I'd like to see just that added detail to make the dial a little more interesting, a little more dynamic, and a little bit of depth/layering with a nice set of applied and framed indices like you do on that one 40mm black dial shark diver model. It should be on all the Shark Divers and sizes. I was so ready to pull the trigger on a 38mm brushed blue dial shark diver after this video. But, the flatness and starkness of the dial did, and has always, left a bit to be desired. I always felt it needed a little extra something. I get this is a tool watch and the stark legibility is all that you should need. BUT, seeing the one black dial model that has the applied indices really spruces up not on the dial but the overall feel of the watch as well. So, Helson, if you watch Mark's excellent watch reviews and take to heart all the comments, PLEASE, consider having applied indices on all your Shark Diver models! Thanks in advance. :) I'd gladly pay a little more for the applied indices.. although, looking at the pricing structure, that detail doesn't seem to affect the overall cost by much, if at all.. so, totally do it!

[@marcof247]

Wing Yip I agree completely. Waiting for the 38mm SS version w/ aluminium bezel insert and applied indices and I’ll be sold.

[@khronokraze]

@@marcof247 you get where I'm coming from. That's basically all they need to do for me and I'm totally on board and happy to be part of the Helson family.

[@RustyLongPipe]

Khrono Kraze I didn’t even realise they weren’t applied 😢 I’ve literally just ordered one lol. Oh well, I have plenty of watched with applied indices I suppose

[@P3ktoRis]

and one with orange and one with white dial :)

[@OneTalaw]

Nice review. I own the 42mm in steel and believe me titanium is the way to go with this timepiece. With titanium you get the look and performance minus the weight.

[@user-ed4kr9hk7j]

Brushed or blasted titanium?

[@TheTimLara]

Titanium really is the best material for watches imo. It's more hypoallergenic than steel, has better thermal characteristics (warms to skin faster), is lighter, and basically corrosion proof. I prefer the matte finishing to shiny as well, although of course that's subjective. This finish kind of reminds me of the Damasko style.

[@simonrano8072]

but very prone to scratches and wear, especially the sand blasted version Helson. Some brands recently lauched hardened titanium watches. My SD titanium bracelet has all its edges shiny now and I am not wearing it everyday (purchased less than a year ago)

[@GTRJohnny66]

Very cool styling. Looks like it wears big for its dimensions. It was an interesting design choice to go fatter on the minute hand, and narrow on the hour. That took me a bit to get used to, but I like the way it looks overall. Blasted finish definitely suits it.

[@nickkendall3764]

hello dude i have to say im super happy to know im not the only one who has to look at the hands at an angle to line it up when setting the time . it drives me nuts the Minuit hand being behind or in front for the second hand hitting 12 i love seeing them sync up as it hits the minuit same with the minuit and hour . us collectors are a special breed of nutcase

[@Les_Grossman]

Great review- was fun to watch! Thanks a lot!

[@scottrockett6382]

The proportions of 38mm case and 20mm l2l is awesome. 18mm l2l would have been weak.

[@surfitli]

The Shark Diver is an awsome watch. I have a 42mm and a 45mm. Really great watches. The 45 is a real beast. I have around a 7 3/4in wrist so it fits nicely. The 38mm is a good idea. This is a very overbuilt watch and having a smaller version will bring this style to more people . Titanium will make these watches a lot more comfortable too. I think they should offer the 42mm in titanium as well. The steel 42 and 45 are heavy. The 45 already comes in titanium. Right now Helson is having a Chinese New Year Sale. 15% off. I also saw your Sharkmaster 300 review and I took advantage of the sale and purchased a Black No Date.

[@Jarmungus]

Thanks for the review! I wish they made an eta version of the 38mm

[@rerami30]

The first version they released last year came with an eta 2824 but without a bracelet like the new ones just released.

[@royce905]

they have an eta movement of the 38 now!

[@nikouai]

This is a great watch, thanks for the review and comparison! But still, I think the hands are slightly bigger than they should be for the dial size. My guess is they are the same size as on the 40mm model... I might wait and see if a 40mm titanium will come out

[@khronokraze]

I love your watch reviews. But, man, I may have to unsubscribe.. My wallet can't keep up with all the cool watches you highlight and present! This is the best version and scale of the shark diver. The skx013 is perhaps a little too small, yet it still retains the same thickness of the larger skx007. This one is compact, but it has a thin profile to match, and I think the wider lugs really do help bring the smaller 38mm size back up just enough to give it a nice substantial look and feel. I'll say it again. The Helson Shark Diver is definitely its own thing, but for me, I like how it is sort of a more angular version of the Rolex Submariner case. I also do not mind a Miyota 9015 movement. They not only allow watches to be thinner, but they can actually be pretty darn consistently accurate. I don't really mind the Rotor noise, either.

[@johnhallkenney]

I just purchased a 38mm Tudor Pelagos Brushed Titanium for only US$551 (sorry i meant Helson. And I've owned a Pelagos)

[@oes2546]

Titanium is the overall "best" metal IMO. Lighter, yet stronger than steel, and almost as corrosion resistant as gold! The only actual downside is that it arguably doesn't look as beautiful. Titanium is more subdued, tool-like and masculine. I actually prefer it over steel for a tool-watch. Normally titanium is softer than steel, but a surface treatment or alloys can make it harder. Like in the case of Citizens super-titanium which has a 5x harder surface than your common steel case. There is by the way a lot to choose from with that brand if you wan't titanium. (Most with solar movements, but also some automatics)

[@AverageBros]

Common misconception, it's not softer, the top layer of oxidation is more susceptible to wear. Yes, there are various grades of both materials that will technically be stronger than another but the general idea that Ti is softer is mostly attributed to the oxidized top layer.

[@AverageBros]

But, yeah, agreed a nice top coat will help keep the finish pristine longer.

[@thewatchloungechris]

Very cool piece and that size is perfect.

[@lonewolf30531]

Cool watch thanks for review

[@damionberv5074]

Great video!! Strictly from a size comparison, how do you think this wears compared to the 40mm version?

[@csharpewalls]

Hamtun H2 titanium diver coming in March, has either Selitta $389 or the NH35 for $259

[@ajgross67]

Chris Walls, after watching this I am actually considering selling my Hamtun H1 for this. I like the dimensions of this better, and the bracelet on my Hamtun is not great (main reason I am considering this). I know that the H2 will have an updated bracelet, but I think the bracelet on the Helson will still be substantially better. Plus the lume will be substantially better

[@2DRINKSMINIMUM]

@@ajgross67 how's the lume like on the hamtun?

[@ajgross67]

2DRINKSMINIMUM I have the H1 Ghost, which is the full lume dial version. With the full lume dual it is extremely legible in no/low light and charges quite easily. It definitely isn’t as bright and I think that it might not be as good with just lumed markers although I don’t know that for sure. I will say that the marks on the bezel of mine are alright but not great. My other dive watch is a Zelos mako which has phenomenal lume and you can definitely tell a difference. I also think the lume on the Shark Diver would probably considerably better compared to a Hamtun with just lumed markers

[@2DRINKSMINIMUM]

@@ajgross67 I see. Thanks for your reply

[@oes2546]

I think the Miyota 9015 is a fine movement, even at $649 IMO. There's also a price premium on the titanium I guess. Citizens new titanium diver (Promaster NY0070) with either a Miyota 8203 or an Eco-Drive e168 goes for around $350. A similar model in steel with the same movement is about $100 less.

[@TheKillahAkASuperP]

I dont know, since day one after they've released this version i want it so bad, this watch basically checks all my boxes, blue dial, blasted titanium, bracelet, 38mm, low profile, i recon not the most original design but it has the thing i hate the most in a watch, which is the date a 4.30 on top of that not even well centered between 4 and 5. Great video and close-ups like always.

[@matthewalexander3891]

Love the date there, it means the hour markers are all there which is much better! Doesn’t interrupt the bold design.

[@chrisng2095]

How will you compare this with the Hamtun Kraken?

[@LastStarfighterAJ]

Love that new blue. A more affordable Tudor Pelagos blue!

[@victorferrera8507]

is it accurate??? i love it....

[@anonypersona3189]

I had that clasp and had to get rid of it. The more you wear it, the more you'll understand why. It produces a huge gap where it meets the bracelet links. The huge overhang will cause scratches on your skin, try crossing and uncrossing your arms for instance. A pity really. I couldn't stand the enormous gap there. Is the case titanium grade 5 or the softer grade 2?

[@AverageBros]

I have the same clasp in a few different models and works fine for me

[@anonypersona3189]

@@AverageBros Yeah, it can work. From my experience it all depends on how much of a gap there is. If the bracelet links aren't thick, it won't work very well but if there's little to no gap it will work fine. I also have a small wrist so that probably would only exacerbate the issue.

[@francescapetti8677]

The 38mm titanium in the review in brushed or blasted version?

[@AverageBros]

Blasted in this video

[@RustyLongPipe]

Is the Miyota movement noisy in these?

[@allthestroke88]

No titanium notebook?

[@craig2100]

Nice review. Is there a link?

[@rockon21ful]

Titanium is 40% lighter and twice as durable as stainless steel and here is a small list of companies that still offer Ti watches off the top of my head, Seiko, Citizen (tons of them), Victorinox,Tag Heuer, Oris, Omega, AP Royal Oak Offshore, Hublot, IWC pilot, Bell & Ross, Tudor, Corum,. Jaeger Lecoultre, Nixon, Zenith, Panerai, GPM ( German Military), Bertucci, Casio, Skegan, Tissot, Orient, Hamilton, Movado, Breitling, Richard Mille and even Invicta! So I would say there is a titanium watch at every price range and if you want one not very hard to find, I've had a Breitling Ti Chrono Avenger for years and still one of my favorites. Also lets not forget about this Helson and all the micro brands as I mainly stuck to mainstream lines! Good Video

[@augustinf]

i have a steinhart in titanium on my wrist right now

[@SunsetSheen]

Helson, a no date steel version please 🙏🏼

[@ivangreguric6053]

That titanium version looks great, but the 38mm is ridiculously small for that wrist.

[@mrjasonrowland]

Ivan Greguric Subjective of course, but I think it’s a perfect fit. I’m not interested in gigantic satellite dishes. ;)

[@andrewdoster3785]

Can u use other straps with this watch?

[@JackP33]

Yes, very easily, but you won't want to. The bracelet is awesome and the adjustable clasp is sweet.

[@jdm-uk-yank]

What knife is that

[@AverageBros]

It's the MBK EZC, check out my review in the channel history, thanks

[@dustytriumph]

Years ago I had a brass SD40 I really disliked. A few months ago I got a bronze SD38 I like so much it's the only watch I wear. I am just not interested in any of my other watches because of it. Recently I wore my Sinn 104 for almost a day before I had to put the SD38 back on. The only other watch I am even half thinking about these days is possibly a titanium SD38. Waiting to see the next production run.

[@2DRINKSMINIMUM]

Saw on instagram, an owner of a shark diver has the lume fall out of the triangle of his bezel. I hope Helson would release a version of this titanium 38 with a sapphire full lume bezel in the future. That way you know the lume on the bezel is safe.

[@cwh1105]

This happened to mine too after I’d had it for about 14 months, so out of warranty. I contacted Helson and they sent me a free replacement bezel insert.

[@2DRINKSMINIMUM]

@@cwh1105 I don't understand how this method of lume application became so popular. The problem with it is so obvious. People are paying thousands for a Tudor pelagos and having the lume fall out of the bezels, it's so ridiculous.

[@2DRINKSMINIMUM]

@@cwh1105 Did you have to ship your watch over to them for the replacement?

[@cwh1105]

No, they just posted me out a new insert. Took about 5 minutes to replace and the new one's been fine.

[@burdineestep4224]

I.W.C. / P.d. titanium forgot those eh? Huge flaw date window aperture is not centered. Minute hand is the size of a 1940's zoot suit necktie. Clownish.

[@scottrockett6382]

Roasted! You’re not wrong...

[@blabrada5627]

Size is great, titanium is great, but the hands look too fat in proportion to the case

[@nikouai]

I also thought the same thing. They are the exact same hands as on th 40mm version

[@Billeh556]

So tempting and just gotta refund on a watch that costed more. Would prefer no date but looks like have to go with the LE model but I don’t like the dial with the imprinted shark and diver...argh

[@Billeh556]

Hey mark one more question- in your experience what is the scratch resistance polished vs bead blasted for Ti? Also any idea what grade titanium is used in these?

[@seanhasretli9664]

What is the LE model?

[@johnhallkenney]

I'm pulling he trigger, trouble is Blasted or brushed!!!! Arghhhh

[@mr.mduweit8926]

Breitling aerospace evo. The only titanium watch that looks good/perfekt. These one in the video looks like 70 bugs

[@P3ktoRis]

omg that breitling is ugly

[@scottrockett6382]

@@P3ktoRis Agreed...

[@ivankerr3570]

Just put a couple of snowflake hands on it and you have a Pelagos replica .

[@scottrockett6382]

Not a bad idea...

[@erikrusso9808]

That titanium looks so dull, like clay

[@Ex.zed.]

Great review, but I'm sick of these Submariner's knocko..homages. Especially for this kind of money.

[@jmemphisTX]

Well you don’t have to buy them you jackass