Take Time, w/Justin Kraudel - Co-Owner of Monta Watch - Monta's History & Future

[@h111551]

Dear Patrick: You have produced a documentarian exploration of what motivates someone like Justin and Michael to start up a microbrand and what they have discovered about the joys and challenges of founding a new brand. The flow from one topic to another was extraordinarily coherent and as a viewer flashing the question on screen helped guide me as one topic was completed and there was a transition into another topic. Most KZbin watch videos have no lasting value and often no present value as they feature unstructured babbling and sometimes are even streamed while the presenter is driving in traffic. Your work stands out. By not insinuating yourself into the video, you allowed Justin to tell his story. I vaguely knew Monta before I saw the video. While I personally collect higher horology pieces, we have two college aged children and I like to give them watches for Christmas. Monta is now on my gift giving radar thanks to you. Your interview with Justin would do the most experienced watch journalists like Ariel Adams proud. Keep up the good work. Best regards, Howard

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Thank you for taking the time to watch my interview. I'm glad you enjoyed it. By the way, I think your kids would love the watches. I own one myself now and I couldn't be happier with the quality. Be well and have a great week.

[@davidsandlin9686]

Could you adopt me? Lol. Jk I think your children would love to have one of these for Christmas. They look like great watches

[@strannostrannovasrr]

Great interview. A pleasant man to listen to. The other day I saw a video of Random Rob. He was also very exited about his Monta watch. I must say their watches are great indeed. The next logical step is order one. But i am also looking forward their dress watch. But one way or the other a Monta watch is going to be a member of my collection soon. Thanks.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Of course! Glad you enjoyed the video.

[@ricardosime2654]

Great interview Pat. Great editing as well. Doesn't hurt that the man has a voice like butter. Easy listening.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Hahaha, I wonder if Justin knows he has a *buttery* voice. It’s true though!

[@thewatchloungechris]

I spoke with Justin when I ordered my Skyquest. Seems like a pretty cool laid back guy. Heard nothing but great things about Monta and can't wait to get my Skyquest in.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Were you the “Super Bowl Sunday” customer!?

[@thewatchloungechris]

@@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett LOL nah I just ordered mine two days ago . Actually the same model shown in the end of the video.

[@jasperdel24]

That was a joy to listen to, and I feel compelled to say that this is your best video to date. Finances may prevent me from going outside of my current targets, but Justin sure left this lasting appeal for Monta that would slot them into serious consideration in the future.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Jasper, *thank you.* I am pretty happy with how this one turned out. Mostly, I’m happy that I was able to produce this film about Monta. They deserve more attention. It’s my goal to highlight the brands I love, so expect more “love” (interviews) on the Channel!

[@mikehueter3982]

Earlier this year I picked up my Triumph at their office, and had the chance to meet Michael and Justin. Class acts both, and I look forward to stopping by again soon to pick up my Skyquests currently on order!

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

That's awesome! I'm considering a Triumph myself... Can't right now, far too many expenses, but very soon!

[@utewatchco1468]

Dope interview Pat!!! I have to say Justin and Mike are great people behind a great brand. When you buy a watch from them you are buying a product that can compete with watches 2-3 times higher in cost.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Couldn’t agree more. I really do love Monta’s watches. They’ve so quickly developed a case language that’s distinctly *Monta.* Now, we all just want more.

[@Bhethar]

Honestly I cannot believe I missed this amazing watch channel. Damn YT algorithm. Fantastic interview and lovely brand. I would go to the US just to purchase a Monta.

[@axqinii]

Ohhh the possibility of a dress watch is very exciting! I can say for their customer service is top notch. I was visiting St Louis this past weekend and stopped by their office, thinking it was a store that I could just walk in and see their watches in person. Long story short, their whole staff was gone working at the Windup fair in New york except Michael which I got lucky to run into right as he was leaving. He didn’t have any watches on hand but he offered to personally drive me to their new office to check out some watches there and just talk watches. Awesome company. Thanks Patrick for the interview!

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Of course! That’s what I do. I love being able to share these one-on-one’s featuring the brands I love with you all. That’s what Take Time is all about. Honestly, Justin & Mike are two standup guys. Always happy to support/talk on their brand.

[@pickles632]

BEEEEEAUTIFUL interview!! Really fantastic answers too!

[@anthonyd6881]

I've been considering a Triumph for some time. I think I might be sold from watching this interview. Well done Patrick.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Now I just need a commission, haha. Better yet, if you do buy, let them know I sent you ;)

[@jordancolony5677]

Patrick, I really love the style in which you are doing these interview videos. Keep up the good work!

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

🤘

[@Dedmorozh]

Been watching since CS+B. It's good to see you doing well with the channel.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

I am! Love what I’m getting to do now. Could not be happier. Thank you for sticking with me. 🙇‍♂️

[@byronsanz87]

Windup was awesome!!! Monta watches truly stand out from the rest of the competition. Was hoping to bump into you Pat, but way too many people on Saturday. As always, great interview and nice background music!

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Thank you, brother! It’s a shame, sorry we couldn’t have met, but thanks for watching the program 🙇‍♂️ Stay tuned! Still organizing it, but there will be local meet ups soon. That’s my personal goal for the Channel next. 👌 Like Justin said, watches are great but the folks that collect them are what make all this special.

[@yankeedoodle6293]

Very impressive. Strongly considering a monta, beautiful designs and absolute quality 👍

[@Lee_K_5555]

Outstanding, Patrick -- this is the best work you've done to date!

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

*Thank you* Lee. Much appreciated.

[@Thewolfamongus74]

Fantastic and engaging interview. I look forward to adding Monta Watches to my collection.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

They are worth it 👌

[@ElijsDima]

Great lighting and staging. Nice smooth editing too, good work. I'd suggest, a wee bit slower/clearer transitions would improve the visual flow, between showing him from the front-left vs. front-right side (when it transitions instantly, it looks a bit odd). Ideally put that kind of transition when the story he's telling changes significantly (new topic, question, or digression). Not inbetween strongly-correlated paragraphs or continuous sentences. Perhaps also an extra 1-2 seconds during "new topic" intermission would help; the flow right now is very nice and smooth, but almost too continuous/nonstop. But, anyway, great interview/script. Reminds me a lot of what hodinkee can do when they put the effort in.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Hah! "One man, one mission." Sometimes the single-mindedness of being a one man operation helps. I've watched this video too many times over... I learned a lot from my previous interview with Michael Culyba, who is a phenomenal editor. I'd like to thank him for my current creative mindset on doing a proper edit. The transitions... I used them to cut out gaffs and stumbles, as well as transition between ideas. I had 40 minutes to set up, film and breakdown before I had to boogie, otherwise I would have filmed/used more b-roll to cover up any verbal mishaps. Normally though, yes, switching cameras between ideas *looks* best; but I can't say that's the only use. At least not for this instance. Also, Justin is a wonderful speaker. He handled all my questions incredibly well.

[@Claus-L.Mueller]

Great interview! Well done Patrick. 👍

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

*Thank you* so much. I had fun on this one. Wrapped everything up in forty minutes 😵 crazy shoot.

[@mrbacchus6127]

Good editing makes this video flow well. Monta seems to make fine watches.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Thank you. Their watches are definitely top notch. I'm happy with mine! Looking to get a Triumph soon... Just waiting on some funds, haha.

[@Youcantleavethisempty01]

The Monta Triumph is a gorgeous watch! I love that a smaller sport watch is offered. Not a fan of the date complication at the 6 hour spot imho. I always prefer the 3 or 4 hour spot. Either way I'm definitely considering this watch as a future purchase. If I had 29k to spend on a vintage Explorer I would but the Triumph will do (-:

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Haha, wouldn't we all, but the Triumph is a decent substitute, for sure. I love the proportions (as you alluded to). The scale of this model on any of the stock accessories is just right. It's definitely on my list as well... Tough choice being, which dial? I love the blue but am also interested in the silver...

[@khronokraze]

Great interview, Patrick. I was also able to meet and talk to Justin at the worn and wound wind up in San Francisco in the summer of this year 2018. He was very nice and receptive to answer all my questions and point out a few unique details about Monta and some of their new lineup including dial colors for the Ocean King 2. Monta's modest number of watches are all very well considered and the quality is definitely there and at least a step or two above many of its competitors. I would most like to own a triumph first.. And likely the other 2 models sometime later. I do see some strong design references in the Skyquest to vintage Seiko Navigator.. The way the 24-hour bezel numbers and markers look and the circular pip. The elevated end of the gmt pointer hand to clear the applied indices. Regarding the Triumph, I would really like to see the easy adjustment system clasp that's in the Ocean King 2. I think likely will need to sell off old stock with the older clasp system first before that happens. But, still, something for Monta to consider maybe in a Triumph 2 version.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

I don’t think that clasp is going to make it on anything other than the Oceanking Series, sadly... I hope I’m wrong, but it’s technically acting as a diver extension, so why would the other models “need” it. Pretty sure that’s what Rolex does as well. 🤷‍♂️ However, again, I hope I’m wrong.

[@khronokraze]

@@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett there's no need for a lot of things, it's just a really nice feature. One which CW has used on other watches that aren't necessarily dive focused. CW, another "microbrand" company that also adopts a direct to buyer market via the internet website. I really like their C65 Trident GMT with bracelet that has a similar toll free microadjustment clasp... A well made and comparably spec'ed pseudo dive /gmt watch that is competitively priced well below $1000 after their many coupon discounts they frequently offer are applied. And, hard to beat 60/60 warranty. How many of us dive, right? It just makes for such a nice feature for micro adjustment without tools. It can only help to sell an already compelling package. I would be impressed if a watch brand offered a tooless glidelock like micro adjustment system across all of their watch models. I mean their sister company everest is all about offering the best strap options for a Rolex, why not adopt that philosophy in Monta strap and bracelet options as well? Hopeful thinking, yes. Perhaps they may actually do this when I am ready to get the Triumph.

[@theycallmeaflat]

Monta Heritage with leather strap has caught my eye.

[@triples4good]

Great review. Patrick, I must say you have one of the best watch content channels. I'm always glad to see a notice. The Triumph is definitely on my list. The complete package looks great and gets a lot of positive feedback. I may revisit your review. How does it compare to the CW C65 GMT? Just as far as fit, finish and over quality of build and value? It would be cool if they would have a black Friday thing as I'm watch budget deficient at the moment. Thanks. Cheers.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

I haven't had a C65 GMT in, but if it's anything like C. Ward's other models, it's phenomenal. Though, Monta operates on a slightly different level... I would always recommend buying into this brand. I actually own an Oceanking myself now. Looking to get a Triumph in the not too distant future. However, same issue as you, "watch budget deficient." Haha, but in time I'm sure to get one.

[@triples4good]

I've had my CW C65 GMT for about a month. I have to say, the quality is great. I love the case shape. the finishing is really nice. I think a Monta is going to be my next big purchase, I just can't decide on the Triumph or the Skyquest. I really enjoyed your interview. Very well done. You should have more of these spots.

[@Leimarrr]

Love the two camera angles!

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Thanks... 😍

[@buckdoe3417]

Fantastic interview. I'd consider a SkyQuest only it doesn't have a jumping hour hand. Justin; see if Selitta will mod the SW330 like Alpina did to their SW200. Having a jumping hour hand at your price point is very rare in the market and I find it to be a gamechanger for travlers.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

That is a great advancement. Next time I chat with the group, I’ll throw that mention in. 👌 That would be great though.

[@samuelball8775]

Great interview. Thanks.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

You’re welcome. 🥂

[@amypeterson4615]

Man, that is one articulate dude. I am not so crazy about people, but I love watches and Monta seems to produce great looking ones with much value for the money. I also love chronographs and look forward to Monta's. I just hope the movement they choose is NOT a modular ETA 2894 one; too many durability issues. I would love to see someone make a model which is sports capable with a diver bezel, but dressed up, so to speak--think of the old Rolex "Thunderbird" model. Best of luck to Monta in the future.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Bit of insider info... Justin told me they’re likely to avoid a modular set up (such as the ETA you mention), not only because of durability but scale. They’re trying to keep the selection lithe.

[@22Phanatic]

Great Interview Patrick ! LOVE this brand and will soon purchase one , not sure which one yet tho! And Mike Pease Please make a longer Rubber strap for the Tudor BB ! Lots of 7-1/2” wrists out there! 😂

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

I have a 7.25” wrist as well and the Monta rubbers wear really well. Curious... I wonder if they’re longer. 🤔 *(Get a Triumph!)*

[@StefaanVdV1961]

thanks for the informative video, that looks like beautiful watches, I'm going to follow that brand.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Agreed.

[@mgmmaze]

Great video! The Gilt dial will be mine!!!!!

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Yeahhh, the gilt dial is hard to deny... It's a real handsome piece (either Skyquest or Oceanking).

[@7rslender]

Patrick, I am very impressed. Firstly with your work. Great interview, location, shooting and editing. My compliments! If I could ask for one improvement, it would be a little break from the last answer to the next question shown on the screen. I watched the video while doing something else on my computer and missed some questions. If you would have a little break there (in the audio) I would instantly now: "man focus on the video, the next question is coming up" ... if you know what I mean :-) Secondly I am very impressed with the brand Monta and it's founder(s): When I first saw a review of an Oceanking I was not sure what I should think of it escpecially at that price point. The more I hear about the watches and the brand itself and their background I think it's a great offer. I am looking forward to their next designs and of course to your next video.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Honestly, Monta is great to their consumers. They're good on their word, which is becoming a whole lot rarer these days. Also, *thank you.* I'll bare your note in mind.

[@kofiofosu9051]

I’ll buy a Monta one day. Great watch, great owner.

[@ajaxforever5473]

Thinking hard about purchasing a Monta next year.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

I love mine... Honestly, may get a Triumph as well. They’re well made and the team really takes care of it’s customers. I’m biased though, really love this group, but I think most of their customers would agree.

[@utewatchco1468]

I definitely agree Pat!

[@TheMartialist]

Nice interview!

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

*Thank you* brother! More to come.

[@neilcarpenter2779]

Great video!

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Thanks brother 🙏

[@Andrew-J316]

Nice watch bit for that price range I rather have a more well known brand such as Oris. Enjoyed the video and speaker though! Monta may give Chr.Ward a contest. The steel bezel version does look good to me and I will have to research it further against a Tudor BB I was looking at and compare quality/price/recognition, etc. I will follow them now! The more I review the watch the more I am drawn towards it!

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

I now own one... Was on the fence, but I couldn’t be happier with it. It’s a fantastic watch and I’m happy to support Justin & Mike in this endeavor.

[@Andrew-J316]

Which one did you get? Will you review it? I am very interested in the Triumph model.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

So, I’ve done a review for the Triumph and the latest Oceanking/Skyquest. I went for a secondhand Oceanking Gen. I. I wanted there first model 🤷‍♂️ I believe they are going places, so owning their first watch felt like the right plan. Not sure I’ll be reviewing it though.

[@Andrew-J316]

Ok thank you for the reply. Will look for Triumph review. Much appreciated.

[@realblackbetty2204]

Thanks for making a 38mm :)

[@a97b18b]

I don’t own any “luxury” brands and with that said, would you choose Monta or Tudor?

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

That’s tough... I’ve owned both, but I still own the Monta (if that helps). I favor the proportions of Monta’s range to many of it’s competitors, to include Tudor. Also, the bracelet is amongst the best and I’m a bracelet guy.

[@kaina732]

How does the bracelet compare to the Gen 2 Omega Seamaster bracelet?

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

It’s one of the best oyster links on the market. Hands down. Couldn’t rightly say how it fairs against that Omega bracelet.

[@dorningarts]

class act

[@Redonepunch]

They sure make good quality watches, just wish I found them appealing. Something about their name and logo and the design of the dials just doesn’t appeal to me. Wish them the best of luck though. They seem like they know what they’re doing.

[@TakeTimewPatrickMarlett]

Yeah, I've heard that before. With the first generation of Oceanking, the logo and text were *supersized* and I know a ton of folks disliked that... I personally love it, haha. However, in matters of taste, everything's subjective. I purchased an Oceanking recently because it was *different* than the competition. I'm tired of rounded hour markers on divers. I like the look provided here... Helps that the case production is top notch as well.

[@Redonepunch]

Yes it’s subjective and a design not being for me is fine. I recognize they make a quality product and I respect how customer centric they are so I wish them success. I was hesitant to comment because I haven’t seen a Monta in person and watches are so different when you actually have one in your hands. That Triumph on leather looks beautiful though. Love the contrast between brushed steel and leather. It really makes the finishing on the watch head shine.

[@1969jmac]

I just received my Monta Noble today. I was eager to open it and try it on. Then was a bit disappointed, the watch is pretty small and light and has a cheap feel about it. The band is very flimsy and feels cheap and the case itself is so so but definitely doesn't warrant all the hype. The micro adjustments on the band slip, so when you adjust them and wear the watch then take it off they slip back out and you have to adjust it again before you wear it. Also the power reserve is only a few hours, I can wear it all day then take it off before bed and in the morning it has stopped and I have to re-set it. Over all its probably on par with your average run of the mill everyday watch you can buy at one of those kiosks in the middle of the mall. It's nothing special and definitely not worth the price point.

[@Shadowwalker1717]

HAHA 1,925.00 $ for the Monta Oceanking. That thing have the Sellita 300 Movement xD the movement price is $279.00. What a goddamn joke.