The $250 Watch Too Good, Even IWC Couldn't Ignore It...

It's not often I encounter an affordable watch that leaves me speechless, but this IXDAO Engineer definitely did. I have no idea how they pulled this off for only $250. I can confidently say that this is the best AliExpress watch I've ever had.
Grab one (while you can) during the AliExpress sale!
IXDAO Engineer (Waffle Dial) ► s.click.aliexp...
IXDAO Engineer (MOP Dial) ► s.click.aliexp...
IXDAO Engineer (MOP Dial) Alternate Store ► s.click.aliexp...
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DISCLAIMER : The "includes paid promotion" tag you might see in some of my videos means I got sent the watch for free or at a discount so I could review it. Don't worry, I wasn't paid - all my opinions are totally my own!
Some links are affiliate links. Purchasing through these links will help support the channel at no extra cost. Thank you!
Collaboration inquiries: [e-mail]

[@WristWatching]

TIP: Add this to your cart, but only checkout during the AliExpress sale this Monday (18th March) to capitalize on some great savings. Don’t forget to use one of these codes for an additional $20 discount over the sale prices: 24AN20 / AEUS20

[@garman333]

I had no interest in this watch until I found out IWC was trying to stop its sale. Now I'm interested in getting one.

[@WristWatching]

Streisand effect in full force

[@altbinhax]

IWC may be excellent, but really this smacks of insecurity - as if someone buying an homage represents a lost sale for IWC.

[@Azzamilano]

Exactly ! Pretty cringe move for IWC

[@maripetluk]

I bought this one immediately after watching this video and it came a few days ago. Incredible is right word to describe it. I have a flat wrist (17 cm) and it fits perfect without half link. I have never looked so much at the watch and dial instead of the time on it. If the dimensions and shape of the case suit you, don't think twice. Just buy it. Until now I thought I didn't like bracelets, but this watch changed my mind. I am seriously considering buying another one with the waffle dial for comparison.

[@AJB1702]

I've come back to this video so many times, I finally had to order the watch. Thank you!

[@theeverydaywatch]

I picked up the black waffle version of this with the text logo - absolutely fantastic watch. Similar experience to you unboxing it - the case finish blew me away, it catches the light incredibly!

[@WristWatching]

Glad to know I wasn't the only one who felt that! Wear yours in good health mate.

[@ulig12]

This is a really rare case of a big established brand going after one of their copycats. I think the reason is in fact that this clone questions again the prices of the original. We have to remember that IWC already received a lot of criticism for the prices of the Ingenieur which were widely seen as unjustifiably high.

[@WristWatching]

I wasn’t aware of the criticism IWC received for their pricing, but that adds more context behind their decision to go after IXDAO. Thanks for shedding some light on that!

[@richardpool9970]

Saw this watch when it was first release and it looked better than anything else on Aliexpress. Couldn't wait so ordered the blue waffle and have been lucky to get a decent fit (it certainly doesn't bobble around). Ordered a couple of half links in the sale as wanted to see if I could get the perfect fit as I love the watch that much. However, that black MOP dial is amazing but can't justify having two of the same watch. I've noticed this happening more and more on Aliexpress that popular watches getting make-overs with new dials 6-12 months later. I've learned to hold back as San Martin are also release new waves of dials on 'older' cases that are IMHO better than the originals.

[@adoboFosho]

The blue what 😂

[@richardpool9970]

@@adoboFosho Waffle and a cigar or if you prefer a smoke and a pancake. Sorry couldn't resist

[@TimothyTr43]

​@@richardpool9970Lol epic movie replic

[@Zotrax1946]

Got one, few months back. Teal/green with the patterned dial. Exquisite. Absolutely stunning. The quality is way way above its price. I loved it so much despite the bracelet not fitting exactly as I wanted. When they started offering half links I ordered 2 from the company. Now it is just perfect 👌🏻. And watching this, I feel lucky to have it 😉. Great vid. Thanks

[@WristWatching]

You made a great choice getting this, it’s an incredible watch! I feel like adding the grey patterned dial before they’re gone for good too. 🤣

[@moneymikz]

Yours has half links? I’m jealous 😠

[@Zotrax1946]

@@WristWatching I have the white dial in the cart😆

[@WristWatching]

@@moneymikz You can buy half links separately too 😉

[@WristWatching]

@@Zotrax1946 Great minds think alike haha 🤣

[@juanplus3324]

I was eyeing a blue dial but I went and got me this exact one instead after watching your video. Thank you for this superb high quality review!

[@ryanzhuang9293]

I was thinking about going for the black waffle but after seeing this video I’m loving the black mop… it’s so hard to decide

[@samwang5831]

Beautiful in a subtle way. This MOP looks better than the OG

[@WristWatching]

I think so too! 🫣

[@marcheezy.]

What a beauty. If they made this with no date I might cop. That black MOP is fantastic. Reminds me of an overcast sky before heavy rains.

[@DominicDope]

Great review my friend. I purchased this watch with the black waffle dial and it's 100% your fault. Jokes aside your videos are top notch - I appreciate the incredible camera work and the amount of effort you put into these videos. Keep up the good work!

[@user-bv1bx8zo5m]

I love to watch your reviews. Your story is so warm, positive and almost emotional.. maks someone like me feeling comfortable buying Homage watches. I ordered Ixdao Engineer. It is exciting whole process of learning about the watch from you and waiting it to be arrived after ordering. You made my day. Thanks.

[@Azzamilano]

The design looks of a mix of a Royal Oak and a Tissot PRX ❤

[@steveyoung101]

Thanks for sharing this video. This is definitely on my shopping list. I like the MOP dial.

[@WristWatching]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jonbravo6262]

Got one in 2023, great watch. I see they might be selling a watch with the Kanjar style dial detail…?

[@WristWatching]

I saw photos of that floating around in a two tone case, but I can’t seem to find it anywhere 🤔

[@johnswatchjoint]

Nicely done Harvind...one must ponder though...have IWC set a precedent? ;)

[@WristWatching]

Thanks John! Haha let’s see what happens. Time will tell…

[@gnq_k]

Convinced me to buy the black MOP. Cheers

[@WristWatching]

Enjoy it!

[@SpookyGhost61]

I look forward to every new video you post. Well done man

[@WristWatching]

Wow, that means a lot. Thanks so much! 🫶🏾

[@RobDTom]

So the dial in this video is black? It looks green!

[@jesperscheel-bech998]

Engineer marking the dial is a turn off for me.

[@hippie_4762]

Going with just the logo on this one is a great choice from them, a good logo will always beat a name for me.

[@ChrizzLau69]

If it was a no date version, I’d love it. Still a great piece though.

[@thebaldwatchcollector]

IXDAO are certainly ruffling a few feathers

[@WristWatching]

And that’s a good thing for us enthusiasts 😉

[@degenerateWA]

It looks incredible. I ordered the black dial version w/ SW200 movement. I'd like to get one with the ETA movement eventually to compare.

[@kyledriscollmusic]

I was thinking about buying the one that really rips off IWC eventually, hopefully China does what they normally do and ignore copyright laws cuz I'll probably never be able to afford the IWC and I absolutely love the design

[@WATCHingJames]

I’ve had my eye on this one.

[@WristWatching]

Pick one up while you can, James. They mentioned they’re discontinuing it once their existing stock runs out.

[@brucecoleman7412]

The only thing stopping me from buying this watch is the flat case that leaves a gap between the lugs and your wrist. If they put some curve to the case to eliminate the gap I would definitely buy one.

[@WristWatching]

That would be an amazing upgrade over true original design

[@garylangford6755]

3:55 the 4,5,7 hour indices are very very misaligned. I can't unsee it after I noticed it

[@andychang7137]

it’s not a IWC. It’s a better one…..

[@WristWatching]

Shots fired…

[@adk7962]

I really didn’t have any thought on buying this watch despite it being a brilliant watch, but I may now have to get one to support IX&DAO and give IWC a middle finger…. 🤔

[@WristWatching]

Haha I think IWC had all the right to do what they did, but that just makes me appreciate this IXDAO even more 😉

[@adk7962]

@@WristWatching They one 100% did. But for me it’s like a five years old wanting to fight me and instead of ignoring him, I lay the kid out. I don’t know. It seems petty. But you’re right. They absolutely have the right. If you use the App, it’s discounted even more.

[@WristWatching]

@@adk7962 That’s a good analogy 🤣

[@santtis]

IWC going after them makes me feel that this one hit too close. It makes this watch more interesting. Added one for my cart through your link.

[@WristWatching]

Exactly! I think that move says everything you need to know. I’m sure you’re going to love it.

[@allthingsgood156]

I had the blue mop dial version, I regretted not going for black mop. The finishing is indeed superb but I didn't like it. Thanks for review

[@WristWatching]

Thanks for watching!

[@yungggit99]

Just bought one after this review. Thanks IWC! 😂

[@moneymikz]

So it is just the MOP dials? I still see waffle dials on their site

[@joeyk4325]

Just ordered 1 can’t wait for it to arrive. Can I also check is your dial blue MOP?

[@WristWatching]

You’re going to love it. Mine is the black MOP dial.

[@joeyk4325]

@@WristWatching looking forward to the arrival date

[@tpop3723]

How does IXDAO compare to San Martin regarding qc?

[@micaljimenez7381]

Nice watch...i hope quality of steel bracelet is better than pagani who colaps in few weeks...looks great

[@WristWatching]

They’re worlds apart! This bracelet feels almost as good as my Christopher Ward C63 Sealander.

[@rogerfilerable]

Another few years down the road, the quality of their watches is going to breath down the necks of the Swiss boys.

[@remionthemoon]

Thank you IWC , becuase of your corporate greed I will be most definitely buying this clomage watch.

[@coalakida]

I dont understand the sizes : what is the biggest one you can get of this ? This is not the black one correct ? it the blue one you are showing ?

[@WristWatching]

It’s just the one size. If you’re talking about the options below the dials on the listing, those are the movement choices. Mine’s the black MOP.

[@kylegosiaco5318]

Hope they make a smaller version!

[@WristWatching]

Me too!

[@andrewd2012]

I have this watch on order. I have also been messaged about an ixdao 6542 white dial (homage to another 6542) that i think is new, it looks amazing. Anyone seen one of these in person?

[@WristWatching]

Enjoy your Engineer! The 6542 looks incredible, I hope I can get one in for review.

[@younusimam-thesalamproject6340]

Thanks for the Proxima review, I bought it and I'm really enjoying it! I think these Chinese brands are getting very close and it makes no sense to me to drop $10k on a Swiss brand. I wish the Chinese would include display backs, its a wonder to see the movement working.

[@WristWatching]

I’m glad you’re enjoying your Proxima! It’s incredible to see how quickly Chinese brands are levelling up. If you’re not fussed about the whole ‘originality’ aspect, they’re incredibly hard to beat.

[@Azzamilano]

Bought a Proxima PT5000 for 200$ Great watch, but I was expecting better for the price I paid. Dial is beautiful (blue snowflake) and the lume is pretty great. The bezel is much too hard to turn though so that needs some lubricant. The clasp is a cheap affair that's regularly sold for less than $5 and the bracelet does not use screws! I prefer to spend 500-660 for a Tissot with a PR of 80hours and better quality control or even 1000$ for a Mido ❤❤❤

[@2000jalebi]

Can I still buy the dial that is featured in this video? I can't find it anywhere

[@WristWatching]

Yup, the link is in the description. The first link is for the waffle dial version, the other two links are for this MOP dial.

[@jalebisingh9886]

​@@WristWatching Is this the black or blue MOP? You say black in the video, but it looks like its blue?

[@WristWatching]

@@jalebisingh9886 Black MOP. It has tones of blue, green, and purple in it. Check out some photos of the Sinn 556 black MOP dial, it’s very similar to this.

[@2000jalebi]

Nice! I just got one now, the black mop! First watch, very excited!​@@WristWatching

[@WristWatching]

@@2000jalebi Awesome, you’re going to love it. Wear it in good health!

[@sjonny-depp]

I really like it, I have the Tissot PRX automatic ice blue & the quarz mint/tiffany blue one. Love the bracelet and boy for $250 USD and solid movement. I would go with the red one!

[@WristWatching]

Oh man, if you’re a PRX fan you’re going to love this! It wore better than the 40mm PRX for me, and the finishing on the case and bracelet feels like a step above.

[@vlamrx]

Is it red?! I don't know why but to me it looks pink 🤔

[@WristWatching]

@@vlamrx It’s called red mother-of-pearl, but it looks like a shade between red and pink to me.

[@flectz]

I think the value proposition conversation hits a sore spot for IWC. its already hard to justify rolex level prices for their generic looking designs. plus they don't really have the brand power like the other big players. so when a watch like this comes out that challenges them on quality and raises questions about their value proposition they'll be quick to shut it down.

[@WristWatching]

Well said!

[@ringaleavo]

No micro adjustments at the clasp, bummer

[@TeslaDo]

What color is this one ?

[@WristWatching]

Black MOP

[@mr.eswatchreviews]

Good review sir

[@WristWatching]

Thanks mate! 🙏🏾

[@justinc8157]

It's still on Ali Express. I just ordered one a few days ago.

[@WristWatching]

Congrats on the new watch! Yes, they’re clearing out the stock they’ve already produced. Once that’s gone, they won’t produce anymore.

[@justinc8157]

@@WristWatching wow I'm so happy I found it at this time if that's the case. Never really looked too hard at the IWC because it was way out of my price range but I instantly fell in love with this one when I randomly saw a review on KZbin. Can't wait for it to arrive.

[@WristWatching]

@@justinc8157 I’m sure you’re going to love it!

[@Cravenfr]

As I live in France, I have easy access to a more sustainable alternative, Herbelin Cap Camarat, the case is not flat like IWC, I prefer the Herbelin on wrist. And I think it's thinner than this one. Still it's good that those options exist so everyone could have nice design on their wrist 😁

[@philfree7485]

hi thanks for the tip i saw the watch and it’s stunning but doesn’t mention what size the dial is any idea?

[@Cravenfr]

​@@philfree7485 Hi ! Mine is 40.5mm automatic green dial (older version, before they changes the logo from Michel Herbelin to just Herbelin), there is 37mm automatic in blue, ice blue, white mother-of-pearl, woman collection are about 33mm. Prices is different depending of the size so my final advice is to contact the shop/vendor to inquiry about the size.

[@Azzamilano]

Really looks like a Tsuyoya the Cap Camarat, but the bracelet of the citizen felt very cheap guess it's a better option

[@Cravenfr]

@@Azzamilano Way better, it's well made for it's price range, would rate it as just below Tissot PRX bracelet. Same quality, different finish. In term of shape, look and feel I prefer cap camarat bracelet.

[@Azzamilano]

@@Cravenfr Okay I see, thanks for the insight !

[@omgpineapple7608]

what is the max wrist size on the basic watch without additional links?

[@WristWatching]

Not sure. Contact the store on the AliExpress chat. They can give you that info, and I’m sure they can throw in a few extra links if you need.

[@moneymikz]

Phew glad I got mine already. And it is better finished than my Seiko or Tissot

[@WristWatching]

Easily one of the best finished watches I’ve handled below $1000

[@musik4u343]

​@@WristWatchingjust sent u an if mssg

[@Azzamilano]

Nope I got a Tissot PRX it is by far better built. My review of the IXDAO 39mm diver in Titanium : I personally like the watch, but it has many build quality issues. There are sharp edges, rough bezel action, it's rough when you unscrew or screw the crown in, and you can hear the rotor rotate inside. But it also has one of the nicest dials out of all the PelaGs. I really like the 21mm lug width (but hate that I don't have any straps that size). I like the fully graduated bezel insert...it's fully lumed. So overall, not the best, but one that I like enough to keep in my collection for now

[@musik4u343]

@@Azzamilano hahahah wrong. Tissot is trash

[@Azzamilano]

@@musik4u343 I gave you arguments, you gave me your insecurities with no arguments. I own both quality wise and the movement with a power reserve of 80hours and a beautiful exhibition backcase made of sapphire glass even if the price is higher is just way better for me. But you have to try both to get it 😘😄

[@fabulousfishball3535]

Heya WristWatching, I noticed that IXDAO sells a MOP and a Fritillaria dial, with the former being $19 more. Are they different dials? Or various names for the same product? WIll be subscribing to ur content! Its helpfulll

[@WristWatching]

Thanks for the sub! They’re the same dials, just various names. I chose the black MOP/fritillaria.

[@terrelljackson4479]

Is this watch in the video simply just the black MOP. Looks too good to be true. I see the hints of different color, but on Aliexpress, it looks plain black

[@WristWatching]

Yes it’s the black MOP version

[@c.s2001]

Your personal praise of this watch in the flesh makes for further research, thanks.

[@WristWatching]

It's reassuring to see the glowing comments from other owners here too!

[@jamesmolino1174]

What is your wrist size? So I may compare...and see how it works would fit my wrist. I thank you

[@WristWatching]

6.4 inches

[@davidsonviray1403]

Do you think this will look big on my 6 1/2 inch wrist?

[@WristWatching]

We have the same wrist size. I think you’d be able to pull it off, though it would be near the limit of looking a bit large

[@Siaolang6969]

Black mop or black waffle dial?

[@WristWatching]

Love both, but the black MOP is more special

[@TheFrankm3]

I’m tempted by this one, but I have a feeling it will look too big on my skinny wrists. I’m just 6.25. Good review though.

[@HoaxersUltima33]

it's lacking the fact that this is a Gerald Genta design

[@rebel5775]

Which version is this there are no images of it how can I order it? there are too many selection option brother help me out

[@WristWatching]

This is the black MOP dial. Use the second link in my description. The options there are all the MOP dial colours.

[@rebel5775]

@@WristWatching which of the option you choose?

[@WristWatching]

@@rebel5775 Mine is the last option. ‘Black Fritillary’ with the PT5000 movement. DM me on Instagram if you need more help: @wristwatching_yt

[@rebel5775]

@@WristWatching thanks for helping brother people dont do that

[@WristWatching]

@@rebel5775 Anytime brother 🫶🏾

[@razakkalik9072]

It looks like a chopard alpine eagle

[@WristWatching]

It does!

[@kingking268]

Guys should i get the ETA2824 or pt5000

[@WristWatching]

I’d suggest the SW200 instead

[@Rubin_TMN]

Hello, what is color black or blue ???

[@WristWatching]

Black MOP

[@Rubin_TMN]

Thank, amazing watch for this price.

[@watchalot919]

I wish they would make their own design, and not putting half links on is madness. I can't see that IWC have a legal standpoint, as most luxury watches are homaged

[@WristWatching]

When their homages are selling this well, I don’t see the incentive for them to branch out to original designs and potentially hurt their sales. It would be interesting if they did though!

[@TheWatchOut]

Nice video man!

[@WristWatching]

Thanks for watching man! 🫶🏾

[@bfair6284]

@WristWatching It looks like the MOP watch seller is not participating in the sale and no discount is seen so far. Did you get yours from the seller you provided the link for? How is the crown action when you screwed it back in? Threading smoothly right away or you need to try a few times? Some said the screw action is gritty. Please elaborate. Thanks.

[@WristWatching]

I got mine from a different seller that had to take it down after the copyright issue. But that seller passed me the link to the seller I have on my description and said to get it from there instead. Doesn’t seem like they’re participating in the sale, but try this sale discount code for a €40 discount: 24AN40 The crown was a bit gritty when I first got it, but it got better after 2 weeks of use.

[@bfair6284]

@@WristWatching Thank you so much for your kind reply and taking care of our community. Cheers. ❤👍

[@WristWatching]

@@bfair6284 You’re most welcome mate. Thanks for watching! 🫶🏾

[@WristWatching]

@@bfair6284Heads up, the official IXDAO store just added the MOP options to their inventory. I’ve added their link in my description.

[@bfair6284]

@@WristWatching Thank you so much for the kind update. Many people will thank you for that. 🙏

[@user-ph4km7ut1u]

Is this the black that is in your video

[@WristWatching]

Yup! Black mother-of-pearl

[@richardvacanti9428]

I don’t think the quality that you pay for with the more expensive brains is there all the time

[@bartok75]

I don't like the waffle dials but the mother of pearl looks gorgeous. I wonder how the other dial colors look in real life. Definitely gonna buy one in the next sale. I think people who can afford an IWC don't care for money and wouldn't bother whether it's overpriced or not. And those people would never consider to buy an homage from China because they would be embarrassed to wear one of those. They would be ridiculed among their peers. So, this homage doesn't hurt IWC. I have no clue why they would go after an Aliexpress brand. But they should be embarrassed as they are the only luxury watch brand to do so (that I know of). It shows a lack of confidence, which hurts their image and image is everything in the luxury brand world. That's how they get people to buy their ridiculously overpriced watches. 🙃

[@WristWatching]

Very well said! On the dial topic, I didn't get this watch when it was first released because I felt the same way about the waffle dial. The moment I saw this MOP, I just had to get it!

[@joostkiefte7683]

Pictures are still available on other Ali stores.....

[@WristWatching]

Some of them seem to have slightly different renders up (different screw design, no crown guard)

[@CG-ql5rr]

It should have the miyota 9039 instead of pt5000

[@WristWatching]

They have SW200 and ETA2824 options too

[@CG-ql5rr]

@WristWatching yes, you're right. These aliexpress watches are really good quality 👌

[@edjack1993]

“Homage” = intellectual property infringement. Simple.

[@tknx5909]

Don't know why this showed u on my feed, but no movement pics? How can you possibly review a watch without opening it up?

[@WristWatching]

Tell that to everyone who reviews a Rolex

[@romybuenaventura3133]

with no microadjustment bracelet........it is a no no for me

[@CG-ql5rr]

bloody hell, in london u will loose the arm wearing this

[@richardvacanti9428]

People can be real assholes for lack of a better word

[@astrayproductions]

A $13,000 price tag classified as a "tool watch" by IWC.. straight up clowns.

[@PeteMcConvill]

mate - thats no homage, thats a straight up knock-off and I wouldnt be surprised if things like the "engineer" and those little half arrow things arent an abuse of trademark.

[@WristWatching]

Fair enough. I wouldn’t label it a knock off because IWC doesn’t have this dial and it’s not trying to pass off as the real thing, but I understand these terms are subjective.

[@dannytan7923]

Hi' wat is the model of this watch? ​@@WristWatching

[@WristWatching]

@@dannytan7923 IXDAO Engineer. There’s a link to it in my description.

[@dannytan7923]

Thxs alot!

[@skeletoncreek6446]

Why are you people even considering buying something that's the cheap copy of something else and look like a beggar

[@WristWatching]

Thanks for watching

[@96kyh]

The quality made IWC scream out

[@WristWatching]

🤣🤣

[@DonaldLopez-k7y]

Williams Michael Perez Sharon Jackson Susan

[@ChuckNorris4092]

iwc tried to stop the selling of this watch because it's stealing the design and the name. Producing a cheap rip-off with "too good materials" it's not someting to be celebrated, it's just a fraud.

[@WristWatching]

Thanks for watching

[@SheliaHicks-y7w]

Young Cynthia Perez Sandra Moore Dorothy

[@soaremicheledavid6020]

Made my own watch for 100$ and looks better than this one. All parts from Aliexpress, case, dial, hands, movement. :)

[@WristWatching]

Enjoy your new build!

[@SheliaHicks-y7w]

Lewis Michelle Rodriguez Sharon Harris Linda

[@rioriggs3568]

My $200 (Aliexpress) Hruodland Turbine Custom Pilot Watch is way nicer than the original IWC. I can afford the real brands but there's no way I'm paying $10,000 for $25 of metal.

[@Jean-LucFrancois-vy7qi]

Built quality you can find way better but the price will increase exponentially that's the problem I still prefer some cleaner movement and built quality but spending not more than 1500$ brand alike Mido and Tissot have better bracelet and Sapphire Glass and their movement more durable but then it's not the same price 😅 Baltic is a french company Microbrand very good and less expensive than the two swiss very interesting for the price but yeah twice as expensive as a Chinese but the quality isn't the same eve. If people here want to think otherwise to feel better 😂

[@paolocirelli8937]

Orrible!.

[@WristWatching]

Thanks for watching

[@stevensteven3417]

Its a boring watch, same as the original, nothing special.