The BEST Entry-Level Chronographs - Seagull, Hamilton, Bulova, and MORE

[@dominicrusho]

I bought the Seagull 1963 just for the social credit points! BING CHILLING!

[@k2hsharpe]

I have the Seagull 1963. When the light hits it right it lights up like a Chinese New Year, or perhaps a 1950's Xmas tree. I love it.

[@homertalk]

Mark Zuckerberg and Zi are very pleased.

[@ruimoura]

I'm loving mine. It's a fantastic watch, almost for free, if you compare the price with other similar watches 😅

[@atsylor5549]

I would really like to get one but I just can’t get passed that Chinese star on the dial. If I wore it it would make me feel like somehow I was supporting their government. It might sound stupid but that’s the first thought I have every time I think about that watch.

[@homertalk]

@@atsylor5549 Totally agree! Chinese are EVIL

[@jons_collectibles_13]

Absolutely love the Hamilton. It’s on my watch list. Thanks for a Saturday morning video! It’s like when I was a kid waiting for Saturday cartoons but now I wait for these videos haha

[@SpencerOnYT]

Did you buy it?

[@davidmakhan5883]

Thanks in part to this channel, and after a fair amount of research, I settled on the Longines Hydroconquest 41mm, Blue Dial Chronograph. At 41mm, it's just about at the upper end of the limit that my small wrist can accommodate. But it's a fantastic watch! Very happy with my this as my first entry level , gateway, grownup watch. Picked it up at the Longines Aventura boutique while in Miami as the 41 wasn't readily available in Toronto. Thanks Teddy and Kevin for that video!

[@DjRjSolarStar]

I'll add that Seiko makes great mecha-quartz movements, like on my SSB393. It feels and acts like a mechanical chronograph, but for only $200-$300. Also, that 262khz Bulova movement is also in my Bulova Curv, and I can say it's an excellent movement. The accuracy is extremely high, and the chronograph function, while clearly electronic in nature, is well executed and enjoyable to use.

[@michaelniemer4449]

It can’t be overstated how important it is to get the foundation right. Teddy & Co., I think you’ve done the job well.

[@anthonyb.3371]

100%.

[@fkos86]

Recently ordered a Sugess version of the 1963, same movement but slightly different dial colouring and design. Can't wait to get my hands on it, I've wanted a manual wind watch for years and finally went for it.

[@jamestierney5568]

Have a Sugess panda eye chronograph myself which (arrived last week from AliExpress). Great value looks good and comfortable to wear too (runs +10secs a day).

[@pedrosaenz2800]

I got the 38 and it is a wonderfull watch. Changed the nato with croco looking strap. It is really an incredible option.

[@Isahiyella]

Its a beautiful watch. I got a Sugess about 6 weeks ago in the 40mm version, and its in heavy rotation. Got it from aliexpress, and it was supposed to ship with the steel band and a leather, but only came with the leather, which was ok, but PO'd me that they screwed me on the metal band. PayPal was no help. Anyway, I got an Army Green | Crafted Canvas from Barton watch bands and it looks pretty cool and wears really well. Congratulations on your purchase, I think you will love it.

[@silveriver9]

Acrylic or Sapphire?

[@balesjo]

The Longines Avigation BigEye is my favorite of all these watches mentioned. Simply stunning. Tissot and Hamilton have attractive offering too, but the Longines to me definitely looks like a step above.

[@SteveConkie-t6r]

I have the 40mm, 22 jewel 1963 and I have to say, it is an excellent watch. The only point against it for me is the enameled blue hands and screws. I would have been fine with polished steel. This watch is genuinely nice. It does not feel at all like it has been shonkily put together. The push action is crisp and the Chrono hands are perfectly centered. It is a manually wound watch and the crown/winding mechanism is clear and positive, without slipping. I waited for a long time to find a '63 that was worth buying and I am glad I did.

[@howardsellick645]

I bought the Longines Avigation Big Eye a few months back, it's a beauty. Such and elegant watch which i get a lot of comments on.

[@isaiahgray6415]

I have the automatic version of the Hamilton panda chrono and love it. It's thick, but like Teddy says it kind of sits in the flat part of your wrist and therefore wears more nicely than you would expect. Excellent daily piece, goes with almost any outfit.

[@eagleosen]

Me too. Absolutely love it.

[@richardmorris7063]

I have the Tudor Panda & my wrist is small & it doesn't bother me at all. The pandas are lovely pieces,so eye catching & go w/ everything

[@AlienInvasionDefenceSystem]

You scratched my itch. I needed this video

[@tomfox9880]

Having owned one for some time, I think the Russian Strela Chronograph with the Plot 3133 movement should be included with the Chinese chrono. Had one for 10 years now and bought it new for $400. Its an incredible watch for the price

[@Aethelwulf91]

For those with smaller wrists on a budget: I own the Seiko SNDC33 which is perfect for my 6in wrist and it's like $100. Super smart after I swapped out the strap for a Collareb leather one. Strong contender for best budget quartz chronograph imo

[@BrittPearceWatches]

Gah, Teddy! I am soooo freaking tempted by the Seagull 1963! Not only is it so dang good - it's a very handsome as well. I really like the design elements and the colours. Very cool.

[@rickjason215]

Bought one, worked for 2 days and I’m waiting 6 weeks to get my money back.

[@silveriver9]

I recently got it, its amazing! It gets more compliments than my rolex!

[@anthonystevens8683]

One of the best videos explaining the differences and price points of chronograph movements Teddy. Also good to hear your views on the pros and cons of each type. The whizzing sound of the Valjoux 775X movement if I recall correctly is the rotor free wheeling in the direction that it is not winding the movement as it winds in one direction only (apologies Teddy I'm sure you know all this already). It's also interesting to hear your view on the Seagull for service given the cost to purchase and the cost to service. Personally I hate to see things thrown away but I guess that includes money. Modular systems are fine and have been used my many luxury makers including TAG who up until a few years ago used it inside the Monaco termed the Caliber 12 (and 11 unless I'm mistaken) with a ETA or Sellita base matched with a Dubois Depraz chrono module. Rumour has it as you state that the chrono module (not being the primary time keeping part) is sometimes replaced instead of serviced separately as special tools are also required to service the module.

[@priamohernandez3121]

Teddy, thank you so much for all your information, I'm a watch lover since I was a kid and because of you my spalk light up again. Thank you

[@joshshearer8775]

I gotta say Teddy, I'm new to horology and you have by far given me more info than any other channel, thank you so much sir!

[@bbscmvsa7411]

Great to see the Longines Avigator get some love! One of my favorite watches I own.

[@jamestierney5568]

Sugess panda eye chronograph using a seagull movement with gooseneck regulator £140. Beautiful watch let's just hope it lasts 5 years before servicing. Or as you mentioned will it be a case of simply buying a new watch?

[@anthonyb.3371]

Just starting my collection. I really appreciate the information I get from your videos. I already own the Casio Duro and James Bond World Timer. My next purchase is a mechanical chronograph (undecided) and saving up for the Cartier Santos Tank Watch. Waiting for my Orient Bambino and Back to Future Casio calculator. Not sure if I am getting a field watch - Seiko.

[@humblewiz4953]

Keep grinding brother!

[@admarrero]

Remember that this is a marathon, not a sprint!

[@ianphiliphodge]

The Casio Duro is a great value. And thanks for putting the Casio 'Bond' world timer on my radar. CoIncidentally , the Cartier Santos tank is sort of my grail watch. Here's hoping we both achieve our goals. I would also suggest looking at the Alpha speed master homage as an affordable mechanical chronograph.

[@anthonyb.3371]

@@ianphiliphodge you got good taste! 👍I'm looking at the Cartier Santos as an heirloom. But from the looks of it, the Casio Duro will last too and they might remember me wearing it all the time long after I'm gone. LoL. Thanks to Teddy for the video showcasing all the watches featured in James Bond movies. Please note, the Casio World Timer is an homage to the real Seiko James Bond watch. I have the square one. I am in the process of ordering a Timex solar from Teddy's site. I gotta have a solar in my collection.

[@jil2936]

7750 movement is the best. love how that rotary turns like a motor with minimal movement. thats not negative , thats a good thing. have them on xwind and hydroconquest

[@Jack_OLanc]

Bought the Lunar Pilot yesterday. Extremely happy with this purchase!

[@metalslug26]

I just picked up the new Seiko Speedtimer SSC813, the panda dial version. Great solar quartz watch option. Great size over the Bulova Lunar Pilot 50+ lug to lug. I have a 6.25-6.5 inch wrists, and the Speedtimer sits flush on my wrist. Prices are creeping up, over retail though.

[@davidtrachtenberg7095]

Can’t find one in stock. Where did you get it?

[@metalslug26]

@@davidtrachtenberg7095 My local Seiko AD, had one reserved for me.

[@NikonFM2n]

Rotor "wobble" I love the 7750 on my Hamilton Khaki field 42mm day/date automatic chronograph with the white/silver telemeter dial.

[@nikkolomakaveli8295]

I just purchased the Hamilton it’s my first Manual mechanical watch and I love it

[@BeckVMH]

I’ve had this watch for awhile and it’s a great chronograph. Beautiful watch.

[@Sprezzatura1]

Teddy, you're awesome! You putting out a wealth of information that is difficult to get anywhere else. Thank you!

[@hansobermann4871]

In my opinion the Seagull (swiss brand venus) is to prefer. Thanks for moderation Teddy Baldassarre. Greetings from Germany to everybody.

[@neildavies4403]

Great content and style as always Teddy. As an owner of the ST1901 column wheel movement, I'm always wondering......If any European country had purchased the Venus movement blueprint and machinery and produced exactly the same product in the 60's and continued to do so today, then we'd be undoubtedly looking at a price, even conservatively speaking, of 5 times the amount. The value of watches like the Sugess that house this movement really is off the scale. This is why I'd struggle to let go of more serious funds to go Swiss....

[@bruceleroy8063]

One of the few channels I watch even when I'm not interested in the watch type being featured.

[@BrettinLux]

I now own 2 Steinhart Chronographs and both are great watches for the price.I have had my Nav-B 44mm for 9 years and the Ocean One Vintage Chrono for 3 years.

[@TonyAguirreJazz]

Wow that Hamilton is now on the list. Amazing

[@USAonAir]

I was planning to buy the Hamilton today and this video just helped me to make that final decision! Thank you

[@Thisfutureman]

And what did you buy ?

[@USAonAir]

@@Thisfutureman Hamilton reverse panda with brown leather strap

[@Thisfutureman]

@@USAonAir very good choice !!!

[@comeonman7423]

Awesome choices! Absolutely love the Buluva, wish it was smaller though

[@donaldbonilla9774]

Began building a collection because of you Teddy. Thanks for the great videos.

[@adengans6610]

What about the vaer racing chronograph how is that?

[@brianolivo1835]

Teddy! Would love to see an update this video, so many new options released this last year.

[@viceroygunrey4037]

For anyone wondering about measurements for the Seagull 1963 and copies, it's: 38mm (47mm L2L), 40mm (51mm L2L), and 42mm (48mm L2L). There are microbrands that are using the ST19s as well but they tend to use completely different cases. I believe the shortest L2L ones are the 719.754L with rhinestones at 36mm (44mm L2L) made directly by Seagull and the Studio Underd0g ones at 39mm (45mm L2L). I have a Seagull 1962 and they wear much better on a 2-piece strap than a nato (b/c they're pretty thick already). The most interesting version is probably the Arcus Tropus at 39mm (48mm L2L), in which they've modified the ST19 into a single pusher variety.

[@assassin7250]

you bought the seagull from the official site?

[@viceroygunrey4037]

@@assassin7250 I bought my 1962 from Poljot24, although they sell the "unofficial" 1963. The "official" 1963s and the 1962s have signed bridges.

[@j.pendergrass9805]

Love the Big Eye. I can’t wait for the non-automatic to be released, that one will definitely go on my wrist.

[@nielsenrivera457]

I got the Seagull 1963 40mm Bronze LE and I’m beyond excited to have it in my hands

[@StefanBacum]

Will we ever get a smaller lunar pilot? Would love a 40mm with 48mm lug to lug... One ca dream

[@ChrisPomeroyOfficial]

I have a massive wrist and it’s about as big as I’ll go before it gets ridiculous

[@scottlewis2372]

Most of us are totally with you, but the movement itself is BIG. I don't think it will happen.

[@StefanBacum]

@@scottlewis2372 bummer

[@me_random_gerard]

Loved the list of suggestions. Amazing close-ups as usual. But I feel like almost every Watch Reviewer hasn't yet discovered the Victorinox (White Dial) AirBoss Automatic Chronograph (because the white is cheaper for some reason) It looks a little bulky but I feel like it's the best Automatic Chronograph that you can buy for less than a $1000 ($600 to be exact). Please make a video about this watch, I know you won't regret it.

[@wannabeuk]

I'm keen to hear your opinions between the Longines Big Eye and the Hamilton Jazzmaster Auto Chrono?

[@HusseinAbdirahman]

Dude that jacket I need in my life! what can one do to pry the info on that jacket?

[@Ak-zf5rb]

The seagull is by far the best in this list as far as value and quality

[@pavlingeorgiev1066]

I wonder what d oyou think about the Zeppelin brand. Zeppelin 7680 in example.

[@jonathonfoster3942]

Is there a reason you don't sell Breitling? Is there a reason I should avoid them?

[@MR-C5-C130]

Great insight as usual. Thank you for educating all of us and maybe more importantly, keeping it real and avoiding the over-hyped sales pitch so many others force on viewers. You bring out a salient point that you can buy a great watch that serves well and doesn't need a personal loan to afford. (BTW, I've got the Bulova and there's just something about it...the history, the look, the execution.)

[@SpencerOnYT]

That hamilton with the mesh bracelet is beautiful

[@stereomike75]

Hi Teddy, I really like the jacket you're wearing in this video, can I ask you where you got it from?

[@CaptainLeftHook]

Bought G-Shock Rangeman GW-9400-1BER blackout. 220 euros shipped to my doorsteps. It's a great watch.

[@JoseSantana-vo1tp]

Hi Teddy!!! I have the Hamilton intra-matic chrono and the seagull and I would like the Hamilton with the window on the case back.

[@Microwave414]

those sea-gull st19 movements are not a joke, their seconds hand is a bit jumpy as some have said but my watch with this movement comes in at +0-5 a day and usually averages out to 2-3 seconds a day and I don't know if you can get an entry level swiss chronograph that accurate out of the box. Just find a microbrand that offers to service the watch at a reasonable price with a look you like when it's time and you should be golden for an entry level chronograph.

[@martinkaplan1805]

Super informative, Teddy. Thanks so much for your thorough and thoughtful analysis. You’ve taught me a lot and enrich my appreciation of watches.

[@andreaiacolina]

In the low price range you could also consider some mecha quartz movement like the Dan Henry 1964 with the Seiko VK63. For 250$ it's a great affordable chrono.

[@Thisfutureman]

I bought a jazzmaster open dial and love this watch .

[@Genegenedtb]

I don't like quartz watches but I do like the Bulova one for it's exceptional accuracy BUT I can't deal with that 44mm size or I would have one. I don't believe that they have to be that big so I'm hoping that one day they will make them in a smaller size. Great video as always Teddy.

[@moyikai]

Hi Teddy! I am just getting into this community. I don’t know a lot, but thirsty to learn. You have been a great resource and I love all of your content! But can you explain why mechanical chronographs must be serviced, what does the service consist of, how often they need to be serviced, and why it costs so much? I get the idea that chronographs add complications to an already complex mechanical movement, but why are they not as reliable? Is it calibration? Do components wear down and break over time? For integrated designs, if the chronograph complications seize, will the entire movement seize)? Decent basic movements can last multiple lifetimes, so why are mechanical chronographs like this so unreliable that an integrated movement like the ST19 is “disposable”?

[@eifionwynwilliams-iffy1288]

I learned a great deal from this video. Thank you. You can't put a price on education.

[@ozspencers]

I am often the last person to support Chinese-made products, particularly in light of their reputation for IP theft. However, we should endorse Chinese products made through legitimate means, such as the Seagull 1963. In this case, they purchased the rights, tooling and documentation to allow manufacture of the old Venus caliber, then applied the Chinese work ethic in order to manage costs. Consequently, the Seagull 1963 project should be applauded and supported as an example of Chinese manufacturing done the 'right way'. Oh and it's a wonderful little watch. One of my favourites and spends more time on my wrist than my Certinas, Tissots and Midos.

[@timverette7393]

Do you have a suggestion on where to purchase a Seagull 1963? I know they are no longer manufactured by a specific company. I’m just afraid to order from a random website and receive a knockoff.

[@TitoCanuso]

Simple, outstanding and educative video!! Be well!!

[@JamesSchenck]

Thoughts on Tissot V8 Automatic Chronograph with the ETA C01.211 movement? It seems to check the boxes and has a MSRP of $895 but can currently be found sub $400.

[@thisoldbelair]

Funny that you posted this video today, I’ve been thinking about chronographs all day and love the Hamilton you featured. Been looking for a budget chrono but you kinda confirmed what I was starting to suspect, that they really don’t exist hahaha. Unless they’re quartz. I guess for me, a $300 Bulova it is then.

[@videocapturing]

I'm confused, is the servicebility issue is only for the seagull's movement or for all mechanical chronograph?

[@TheBSM100]

Fantastic, well researched vid as usual…good job Teddy…

[@cdubz117]

Nice video, thanks for creating this. I own a Tudor Chrono Reverse Panda and love every bit of it. For the price, quality and craftsmanship, a true gem and steal

[@AleksanderFras]

first one is not original seagull... its also not fake one.... but original doesnt have engraving on crown, and it has 2 lines of text on dial... you also dont see movement at the back side

[@suryaganesh8567]

Hey there Teddy! I suggest you to at a look at Titan Edge Automatic Watch. It has a width of under 2mm.

[@richardmorris7063]

I have a Movado Circa gold on alligator strap for about a thousand. I don't use the crono feature but the piece is beautiful.

[@humblewiz4953]

*"Seiko SSC813 P1" - it's also a nice piece with a panda dial*

[@sefard777]

Was hoping someone mentioned it. The Seiko Solar Daytona. What says more "tool watch" than that ultra reliable set?

[@haping1]

Great video Teddy. But why the big, for a lot of wrist oversized Bulova. For the price of the Seagull, a great alternative is the Yema Rallygraph, a Hemel or a Dan Henry. All based on the Seiko Meca Quartz. Nice sweep of the chrono hand and reliable.

[@allenhooper8532]

Love the content. I became a watch enthusiast after inheriting my dads Mont Blanc chrono. Would love to see niche brand “deep-dives”. Keep on keeping on’.

[@arhitectura.din.România]

Great review as always!

[@retrostu1]

Love those Hamilton, only problem is…. Would I go with white dial on the mesh - or - black dial on the leather 🤔

[@giusepperocchi2979]

Easy, get the white on leather.

[@ThePolarBearProductions]

Sorry I’m still new to the world of wrist watches. By mechanical do you mean you have to wind them up and they aren’t battery operated?

[@anantmehrotra4868]

How about Timex Marlin Chronograph with a bracelet?

[@adamdelarozza1985]

Mido makes a chronograph Limited Edition watch, that is now sold out. That was my first, my second is the Certina DS action Chronograph, pd. $750 but it's also sold out. Thanks for this entry-level Chrono Vid!

[@haydentrudgill]

Dude, where did you get that jacket from?! Is it suade or wax leather or something? Can anyone assist? Great vid as always.

[@1xXTheCuRsEXx1]

how about Seagull Double Skeleton M182SK Blue / Black Hand Automatic Watch ? could you make a review on it

[@peteanddrake4242]

Take a look at Seiko Presage. They have the previously Grand Seiko only 8R48 true column wheel movement and incredible finishing--some even have enamel dials. They start around $1300.

[@christopherchino7706]

Orient Neo 70’s is another great quartz option!!

[@samarthachannagiri8132]

What about the Tissot Bridgeport Chrono with a Valjoux? Very reasonably priced

[@rungtatushar]

Interesting video! One point though, there is a big question on Seagull 1963’s authenticity. Baltic Bicompax is better choice in my opinion. Although devoid of historical value, The Bicompax uses the same ST19 movement, comes with an exhibition caseback and gets great support from Baltic’s service support. What are you thoughts on this?

[@markus98sb]

Another cheap mechanical chronograph are the poljot chrono with a 3133 movement. You can find NOS for 120€, I'm not shure how long they last without a service, but when you want to work on a chrono this is probably the best option.

[@mec1789]

when are you starting your own watch brand?

[@alansfreetime9891]

Thanks for all the inspiration and watch knowledge through all your videos. 3 out of 5 are mine.

[@michaelhill1943]

Hello Teddy QUESTION: Can we get a top 10 watches with the best case backs? from cheap to expensive .. Thx M Hill

[@RahzAlGhul]

Great videos man keep it up, best watch channel on YT, do you cover vintage pieces?

[@mywatcheswithben]

What about seiko NE88? Is it horrible or something? I wonder why it's not used more

[@CarlosRodriguez-lf9oe]

I just bought the seagull 40mm with the salmon dial for around $180. Cannot wait for it to arrive.

[@D3Vlicious]

Hi Teddy, any chance you can revisit this topic again but with the increasing number of affordable ($1000-1500) Seiko NE86-based chronographs from companies like Yema, Crafter Blue, etc? These seem to be very good options for affordable automatic column wheel and vertical clutch chronos.

[@chrisferrara3061]

No mention of Seiko NE86?

[@matthewholzner9526]

I own the Bulova and it's accuracy is excellent. While they say it's +/-5 sec / month; in my experience it loses less than 1 second a year.

[@perfectman3077]

Yeah, but it’s too large for my puny wrist :(

[@srajxm]

Looking at entry chronographs I consider the Christopher Ward C65 Chronograph to be one of the best value, quality and looks for relatively low cost (USD$1,600 free worldwide shipping) includes a Sellita SW510 BHa ‘bicompax’ automatic movement. Surprised you haven’t picked up on this as yet?…. hoping it wouldn't be that given they don't wholesale you can't sell them through your online shop?....

[@danielgilligan6243]

Thanks for the excellent video Teddy! Puts it in perspective.

[@hybridstrength5065]

Idk what the heck bulova was thinking the lunar pilot in 40-41mm with a 48mm lug to lug and 20mm strap would sell like wildfire. Currently it’s an absolute behemoth of a piece.

[@res00xua]

Very informative. Thanks Teddy!

[@impsire]

I have a 40mm Sugess Seagull 1963 that I love and I also have a Furlan Marri. Whats your take on the latter?

[@okaynoice]

Any thoughts on Shinola Detroit watches?

[@ChrisPomeroyOfficial]

Bulova Lunar Pilot? Predicting before viewing.