Straight From Texas, Everything You Could Want in a Diver

[@RelativeTime]

Price Update: Evident;y Jack Mason has seen some of your comments and has dropped the Pre-order Price of the HydroTimer. It's now $799 with the bracelet and $729 for just the rubber strap.

[@shawnholloway2410]

I think even at that price it is a hard sale for me. Back in the day this would have been much cheaper. I think they will have a hard time competing with other offerings. It is amazing how much micro-brands are these days.

[@RelativeTime]

@@shawnholloway2410 Unfortunately it's kind of like that with everything these days. Someone was just commenting on my Hamilton Khaki King video about how much they are now. I think I paid about $275 for mine on sale 4 years ago. Now you are lucky if you can find them for under $500.

[@shawnholloway2410]

@@RelativeTime But, the difference on that is name brand vs. micro brand. I think that is a big question, at $799 is there a big brand better option. If so, I would go with the big brand. I find it interesting how they dropped $200 like that……Still a very nice watch though.

[@bryan9931]

Made in Texas means given the rolling blackouts, the lume is above par. Lots of field/beach/bar testing in Cancun.

[@mariog7213]

It’s not Ted Cruz’s watch dude

[@holgermuller3597]

"Snowball handset" -so cool, I like it! A really fine watch it is. It´retro or traditional, but also gives some new and modern impulse. Ok, the french flag on the second hand...I think they will remove it for production 😀. We'll see if the price holds up. High-quality content, as always, Shane, thanks for that 👍👍👍

[@ozziebrito4527]

Love my strat-o-timer , I don’t need a dive watch. But this company is going to be here for a long time. They are excellent at knowing what their customers want. Great job Shane. Always love your reviews.

[@JeffCulp-n8c]

So regarding the hand set. Somebody said they don't have the brand equity yet. Well the hands are a design carried over from the 1st diver from 2017, the Seamount. I like how they paid homage/tribute to that watch from their past by showing that watch and never in production versions of the original diver in their Design To Watch series which I really enjoyed. And you can see similarities in the strat o timer index markers with the shield shape similar to the lume pip shape and maybe the 12 o clock markers of that original diver as well. One of the things I liked about old Jack Mason was that there was a brand identity. Case shapes and some design languages were shared across some model lines. Definitely within the same model lines. This is how you build a brand identity and brand equity. Love or hate the hands, it's a Jack Mason hand and I think they should stick with it. In fact I think they could have leaned more heavily on some of those strong design elements like the 12 0 clock markers of that original Seamount diver as I thought it was distinctive and large enough to differentiate it from the other markers where as here that triangle is a little small and the logo to far away from it to have a visual blending that could make it look larger. Same with the strat o timer. The 12 o clock marker didn't differentiate itself enough from the rest. If it had a similar variation from the old Semount diver it would have worked great in my opinion. Anyway, I was talking about the hands. It's an original design and I'd rather have an original design than another variation of common designs. I really like and appreciate the unique handset.

[@JeffCulp-n8c]

To clarify, some of those remarks were just nit pics. I think Jack Mason did a good job on these watches. I really like the jubilee style bracelet. The strat o timer would be my pick but both are good.

[@RelativeTime]

I think a lot of people don't realize that Jack Mason has been around for a while now. They are so used to hearing about a new brand which is really just one guy running it out of his house. They don't realize that they already have an established identity and existing fans.

[@mikes.4136]

Really sharp diver watch. The dial face is especially nice.

[@monologic4806]

Good looking watch. Design is pretty much original . Excellent review Shane. 👍

[@jimhughes5255]

Just got one. Went with this over the Black Bay 58. Being a Texas timepiece was a big selling point as well as its superior design.

[@TheJasonCrystal]

I attended the Intersect show in Dallas at their showroom and I was impressed enough with the Hydrotimer to order one. I've had it for several weeks and it has not left my wrist (and I have some other really good microbrands that I love). From a fashion watch brand to a quality microbrand I'm very impressed.

[@RelativeTime]

Intersect was fun, maybe we walked by each other. Those sliders from the food truck were great.

[@deanP.]

Interesting watch. Thanks for the review.

[@mfrankel8321]

Nice review! This Jack Mason diver could use a calendar. Also, for their price point, an upgrade of the Myota movement should have also been considered. I do like the design though.

[@RelativeTime]

I know they have a good relationship with Miyota, but I think they primarly went with that way because the case was already designed for the 9075. Although personally I'd love to see them use the Swiss LJP G100, which is kind of like a super Miyota 9015.

[@mfrankel8321]

@RelativeTime Couldn't agree more on the movement. Their price point is getting within the range of Christopher Ward, Oris and Yema , all 3 of which have much better movements to offer.

[@RelativeTime]

​@@mfrankel8321 Now the 9015 isn't a bad movement... Performance wise it's just about as good as most Swiss movements. However, it's still a cheaper movement.

[@mfrankel8321]

@RelativeTime If this dive watch had been priced around $600, we probably wouldn't be having this discussion 😀

[@P_Ezi]

"Snowball" hand is good. Anything is better than another Mercedes hand. $900 is just too high.

[@gileduardolimaesilva5018]

I pretty much loved the handsets! Amazing watch indeed

[@dosprompt5418]

Relative Time x Jack Mason collaboration...let's go!

[@islandterror5198]

I wish I could pull off rockin ' that Hat ! ⭐

[@Shtofman]

I e had mine for many months and really enjoy it. The watch has gotten many compliments, it keeps great time. The black face and gold markers are good character features for me.

[@moorwatch9654]

Looks good

[@hmr171]

I think the type and amount of text on the dial is spot on.

[@anthonydevono8833]

Looks great

[@davidlloydjones752]

The 'bong' handset.🤠✌

[@spg5658]

I like the Brand. I own a quartz piece from them. Very pleased !

[@stavros_katsopr]

Spinnaker round hands, i think. Wish them well, the brand, not the hands... Thanks for the review Shane, hope you're well mate, cheers.

[@carlkim2577]

I handled these (production) at a pop up. My thought was that it was a dive watch worth $600. However, when you add regulation plus the fly micro adjust, then $700 is a great deal!

[@barrettwbenton]

[Cue Lyle Lovett's "(That's Right) You're Not From Texas"] A diver with just the right amount of personality. Price *is* a bit up there, but not by crazy- much.

[@RelativeTime]

Thats a great song.

[@Crybotenabled]

I already have a Strat-O-Timer (love it!) So considering the price and same case shape, I couldn't justify purchasing this one. But it is a handsome watch! As a SOT owner I'm pretty sure anyone opting for this over the GMT will be happy with a fantastic watch.

[@khronokraze]

Overall a solid watch a new entry to their catalog for the brand. However, I have to admit the "snowball" handset.. it's just not a shape that appeals to me. It feels a little half-baked. It's neither here nor there. Idk? Perhaps the "ball" could use a slight enlarging to give it a little purposeful emphasis? The only thing I can think of why it's shaped the way it is, other than to maybe be different, is it appears to overlaps/eclipses the star logo on the dial. Again, that doesn't necessarily do anything for me as you'll only really not come and see that at 12 am/pm. And, if it doesn't perfectly go over the logo, then it oddly misses the mark, I'd that was even the attempt to do so. And, I agree, the triangle at the top could be a little larger.. it just feels like it also needs a little more emphasis at the top of the dial.

[@paulhiggins8774]

Not happy with the logo but the rest of the watch looks great and very similar to a Seiko. Compare this to a CW 300 dive will cost you about £100 more with a Swiss movement, nothing wrong with the Miyota 9000 series and some say it’s better than the SW200 but it is a Swiss watch designed in the UK GREAT review as always Shane 👍

[@navyfan87]

I own two stratotimers - a pepsi and the watch crunch edition. They are fantastic watches - super accurate, comfortable and lovely to look at. The jubilee bracelet is excellent. I have a white face hyrdotimer on pre-order and can't wait to get it. Plus it was great of them to refund the difference after they lowered the price. Great company and great watches. I'm a fan.

[@RelativeTime]

I wasn't sure about the watch Crunch version until I saw it in person. Something very cool about that minty green color on it.

[@Nefville]

That hour hand is Reunion Tower. Bet you dollars to donuts and I never get to use that phrase.

[@RelativeTime]

That makes sense. it could be... or maybe the ferris wheel at the fair state grounds.

[@rmoffettutube]

Looks baseball themed to me.

[@adk7962]

It’s a great looking watch. I think it’s worth the money, but a little too much for me. Thanks for the review.

[@Z-S-H]

maybe the camera doesnt do it justice but I wasn't super impressed until I saw the other color pathways and now I think it is a good offering. Great cover and you did awesome as always! Texas Brotherhood ftw 😁

[@RelativeTime]

Thanks. I know at one point they were looking at a watermelon colorway. A bit different but pretty cool looking. Maybe they will bring that out later.

[@Thomas-cz2vg]

super nice watch at an unfortunately too high price.

[@manuzach]

Yup price is way too high

[@adamryder4559]

Price is way too high for a fashion brand

[@Totemparadox]

Smells like poor in here.

[@larrydalton2205]

Nice looking watch, honest review. I think I'd call the hour hand "mini" snowflake or "stubby" snowflake. Design is a plus. The price is too high compared to a similar American Vaer with the 9039 even though the Hydrotimer is better.

[@larrydalton2205]

I meant to say a similar Vaer dive watch also assembled here.

[@jberry1979]

Also...could you do a follow up on your stratotimer? Would like to see how it's held up scratch wise.

[@RelativeTime]

Well I've had a production unit since mid may. So far so good. The clasp has some minor marks from desk diving, but rest of it still looks great. Although still wish they would of put the scratch resistant coating on it.

[@turnbasedtoddy7664]

It looks so good! I feel like micro brands are starting to get out of hand with their prices though. Just 3 years ago this would have been $499 tops

[@RedwoodAggie]

I got to try this and the Strat-o-Timer at the Chicago Windup last weekend. They're really nice, though I like the President style bracelet on the Hydrotimer even more. I wonder how that would look on the Strat-o-Timer. I am kind of neutral on the hour hand of the Hydrotimer. I don't love it, but I don't dislike it. I agree it could use a bit more something on the case back and a star for Texas would be great. Both of these watches are very comfortable on wrist.

[@RelativeTime]

Sounds like you had fun. Most of the guys at JM are pretty cool to talk to as well. Peter is pretty knowledgeable and always happy to talk watches.

[@jaer.6540]

They are crazy for that price...what were they thinking???

[@ajmarion]

Ikr, it’s a $500-$600 watch tops

[@JohnBuckmaster-sw3wm]

I really like it, However, there is a whole Lotta competition at the $1000 price point. If it had a ETA 2824/Sollita 200 movement then ok, but it just seems like it’s a couple of hundred bucks overpriced.

[@frankdirscherl2345]

Another great video.

[@DaveInTexas1180]

Great review and nice watch. How is it I just discovered you are a fellow Texan?

[@gopherproxy]

Ha! Big hat, no rattle 😄👍!

[@RelativeTime]

Do you mean Cattle? Or are you making a pun about the Miyota rotor being noisy? I guess both work.

[@gopherproxy]

@@RelativeTime ... and the bracelet 😊. Miyota reference is great - rephrased to "Big hat, some rattle" 😁👊👍

[@RelativeTime]

@@gopherproxy 😄

[@rodneykinnaird7613]

new brand+low movement+high price=no deal

[@RelativeTime]

Jack Mason is kind of a strange Microbrand. They aren't exactly new. I think they have been around for about a decade, but pre-pandemic they were more focused on retail. Even being carried in Nordstroms at one point. It's just more recently they have focused in on being a brand for enthusiasts. So new to the segment... but not new to the industry. Regardless, they still have to build up their reputation with enthusiasts as if they were.

[@BoozewithNick]

Make/model on the brown “racing” strap (sorry, please correct my terminology) at 3:05, please. That is great.

[@RelativeTime]

I believe that's from Blushark. www.blusharkstraps.com/collections/leather-watch-bands/products/leather-kwik-change-quick-release-brown-rally-strap-calfskin-watch-band They sent me a bunch of straps at one point, and that was my favorite out of the bunch.

[@ceeb2275]

Its cool... | dont mind the lollypop handset. im interested. Over the years i've bought a couple of watches from your videos., Kamasu, Orange baby monster (sold) , Hamilton khaki King (in black not champagne) Love the Lone Start Logo. classy AF Might look at one of these.

[@PanSearedRibeye68]

I like the Stratotimer design language much better. Batons > Round.

[@MementoMorituri]

How about a Ballpark handset?

[@dazzlerjohnwatchman8215]

Texas does it again. Nice watch range. How accurate are they, the case back suggests very? I think it's a lost opportunity to use some great Texas cow leather on the strap with a big Lone Star buckle. Sorry to the Vegans 🐂Shayne great review as always I like this watch.

[@RelativeTime]

They say they are further regulating to within +-5sec a day. The production GMT I have is running about -3.

[@thegorn]

It's called the "hydrotimer" because you use it to time how long you've had the hose running in the back garden

[@RelativeTime]

I guess it's better then desk diving.

[@ajmarion]

Looks pretty cool, but would have to be under ~$500 for me to consider purchasing. Nearly $1,000 is way too much for a Miyota. A grand is even pretty deep into Sellita territory! This watch is in Christopher Ward’s bracket, and I think the CW’s are better in every single way

[@RelativeTime]

Well, these days $400-$500 is about the starting point for a 9000 level Miyota. Now movement aside, compared to CW I would say that case isn't as good, but it's also a much simpler design than the Lightcatcher cases. Dial is close to CW levels, but maybe not quite there. While the bracelet is about the same quality as CW, and the On fly adjustable clasp actually being better than CWs. At least compared to my CWs, and the one I borrowed from them to review.

[@neroltecneops59]

Beautiful watch, but out of my price range. And if I had enough to pull the trigger over 700.00, its not going to be this watch. A Signum Cuda crazy titanium & lume would be first for me. Keep in mind, I wear an 83 Pulsar (kick ass lume) diver, Seiko diver, 85 Casio, & Vostok-scuba guy My wife and I also drive civics, have 2 grown kids and own a home. This info is for data purposes of the watch maker!

[@RelativeTime]

Singum Cuda is a great watch for the price. Their new watch, the Seige, looks pretty good too.

[@neroltecneops59]

@@RelativeTime thanks, you're channel was new when I first saw a review, nice work, you are really good at what you do and a pleasure to watch ⌚

[@gregschulte2953]

Bought the stratotimer at 10% off. A very nice watch. This diver is too expensive as there are many fine divers for hundreds less that spec out comparably.

[@robertrocha597]

I really saw these at the wind-up fair in person and I hated these. They are all over the place with suggestions but with no idea or form. I am shock that people love them so much. Great company and got to respect the cult following.

[@RelativeTime]

Did you see anything at windup you did like?

[@robertrocha597]

@@RelativeTime yes I purchased the Raven AIRFIELD and next will be the new Lorier.

[@RelativeTime]

@@robertrocha597 lorier is great. I've never seen a raven though. Probably should at some point.

[@robertrocha597]

@@RelativeTime they are awesome tool watches. Strong and for a great price. I have lose 0 seconds a day so far. Lol

[@morgan97475]

I'd like to see them use their logo as the 12 o'clock marker.

[@RelativeTime]

That could be cool.

[@morgan97475]

@@RelativeTime Especially if JM put superluminova around the star.

[@HVG67]

Yeah, let's get straight to the Elephant in the room... Personally, I never would pay extra for "assembled in".. so yeah the price is it's biggest handicap. And, as a microbrand, price vs value, is literally the only thing that matters because there is no value in the brand name yet...

[@RelativeTime]

What about further regulation?

[@HVG67]

@@RelativeTimemy Namico Shirahama Neo Tokyo Black DLC (kick-starter) has a NH38 that has been regulated at +/- 1sec. a day as part of the deal. It's nice but I have a bunch of NH38/NH35 and Miyota 9015 (date version of this movement) and all of them perform within spec. But let's face it: a 9015 / 9039 is not a high end movement that's going to be used in a COSC watch (even when COSC specs only state a watch needs to be within +/- 4-6 seconds a day..) Anyway: if they used a Selita or equivalent caliber the price would be better to swallow imho...

[@ahojnazdar3656]

Regulated in the USA for 989 USD lol! I wish my Tudor BB Chrono was regulated in the USA as well. I'd pay at least 300 USD more for it. What a CASHGRAB! Is this a steal watch? :)))))

[@RelativeTime]

Since the video came out they have responded to the pricing criticism and have dropped the pre-order price down to $799 with a bracelet. Which shows they are paying attention to what people say.

[@ahojnazdar3656]

@@RelativeTime I know. But paying attention to what people say doesn't change anything on how greedy they are. It just means that they had to lower the price if they wanted to sell...that's just market principle. :))

[@RelativeTime]

@@ahojnazdar3656 Well for the context they are more used to being in competition with name-brand watches like Seiko, than other micros. While they are new to most enthusiasts, they aren't new to watches. Their watches were carried at retail stores like Nordstrom for years. Right before the pandemic hit they pulled out of retail and wanted to focus on selling their watches directly online, and it's only recently have they decided to be more into the watch enthusiasts space. So if you look at this in comparison to some of Seikos offerings. Like the MMR, 62mas, and Willard. They are coming in just under those with a better-built watch. However, Seiko pricing isn't microbrand pricing, and that's a lesson they may be learning the hard way.

[@s.mas.w]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️five star content 😘👍

[@Taylod1]

Just another driver with a few minor changes.

[@Shpeil]

Yep, JM could definitely lose the colouring from the counterbalance. It detracts aesthetically and, presumably, they are aiming to sell these to customers outside of the US who will mostly assume it's French.

[@younusimam-thesalamproject6340]

I would call the hour hand a kebab hand. Its like a skewer with the kebab in the middle. Now im hungry.

[@bernardbarroga1497]

Thanks but…..I’ll stick to Ali Express special!!😳😜😅😂

[@RelativeTime]

As long as it's a San Martin, you should still be good.

[@neilbotha3527]

Great review Shane, but nope, not for me

[@BoozewithNick]

First reaction is “ugh, I hate the hour hand”! And the logo is just too on-the-nose for a non-Texan.

[@RelativeTime]

"That's right you're not from Texas, But Texas wants you anyway" - Lyle Lovett 😎

[@henryperez606]

I think it’s OK as long as you’re not a Redskins fan

[@jessalanfields]

These look interesting but they need some marketing help. I don’t just say that as a marketer - their video is a bit rough, etc. They need some narrative work done to define the brand. But I’m interested, as a Texan, in what they’re doing.

[@RelativeTime]

I think you are right. Since they are local I've talked to them in person multiple times now. Great group and they have a great story and idea of what they want to do, but I'm not sure that's coming across with their videos and marketing.

[@jessalanfields]

also, new subscriber here, sometimes watch fan, certainly enjoying your videos.

[@RelativeTime]

@@jessalanfields thanks! And welcome to the channel.

[@manuzach]

Sheesh, this 3x the price of a PADI certified Seiko turtle!”…

[@RelativeTime]

To be fair, that's a completely different watch. A better comparison would be the newer Prospex slim turtles. Like a SPB313. Specs as well as the case design are more similar.

[@MikeSmith-er1qs]

Sorry, they just don’t have the brand equity for a $1000 price tag. And…. I have a JM, so not being a hater.

[@RelativeTime]

You are not alone in that. Heard it a few times with the GMT. I guess the question is how do they build up their reputation among enthusiasts. They will have to figure that out.

[@MikeSmith-er1qs]

@@RelativeTime agree, it’s a tough task. Time, quality, and good advertisement.

[@kennethgrisham9409]

The hour hand looks like a meth pipe I can’t unsee it lol

[@RelativeTime]

🤪

[@jberry1979]

There's so much dust on the face....

[@RelativeTime]

It's unfortunate, but it is a prototype.. sometimes thats just how it is, especially with a black dial.

[@Tom_H327]

Straight from Texas.....via China. 😂😮

[@RelativeTime]

Yup they are in there. I think it goes: Texas (design) -> China (component manufacture) -> Ohio (assembly) -> Texas (until shipped to customer)

[@tylercalhoun5536]

Great looking watch, but much too high of a price for a watch made in China.

[@watchalot919]

It's a shame the sides are polished

[@freddyrincon1481]

Ahh no thanks... companies need to start throwing out 44-45mm watches all these 40-42mm are just too small for me..and that price is ridiculous..thaw watch looks ok but nothing special..

[@unwokeneuropean3590]

you have lost me at 20th second when you told me this is a 40mm watch. I want to ride at the small watches fashion wave.

[@RelativeTime]

Well as far as divers go.. that is on the smaller side by today's standards.

[@unwokeneuropean3590]

@@RelativeTime by the watch youtubers reviews I have noticed 38mm divers as a huge fashion trend. The new Tudor BB54 will make the "homage" brands even more into smaller watches. Except Orient, I know they will never make me happy by making their legendary watches in sub 40mm sizes.

[@RelativeTime]

@@unwokeneuropean3590 Well.... they may not be sub-40, but Orient recently announced a 40mm Mako. However, most of the other Japanese divers seem to be staying steady at 42+

[@jberry1979]

those hour and minute hand......yikes.....

[@marcusaurelius49]

I would never willingly buy any product made in a trash state like Texas.

[@1959Berre]

The French flag is a no no.

[@RelativeTime]

I think it's supposed to be Red White and Blue for USA and Texas, but when it's flipped around it's Blue White Red.

[@mariog7213]

Not a fan of the fauxtina or the gilt. I can’t wait for that fad to disappear

[@RelativeTime]

The Fauxtina or as I like to call it Fade-ium (as the lume never lasts long) is one thing. Yet I think the popularity of the BB58 has solidified Gilted dials for a while.

[@mariog7213]

@@RelativeTime Yep. Damn bb58 🤣

[@chollister08]

Nothing special maybe a $250-$300 watch at best aliexpress vibes and the finishing on the hands is unacceptable at that price prototype or not , the star makes me think China not Texas

[@rickjason215]

I hate divers. They are all basically the same. I don’t care about the bezel clicks. The watch is produced in China. Has a cheap Miyota movement. They put the movement in the case and they say assembled in US. Is it worth the money? Is a Sumariner worth 10 grand. I saw a KZbin channel where the guy was raving that his new Submariner was the greatest and most beautiful watch ever. No watch could be as beautiful. It is all in the eye of the beholder.

[@RelativeTime]

Well, what kind of watches are you interested in?