The Best Micro-Brand Diver Under $400 For 2019? - Lorier Hydra 200m Dive Watch Review

[@cannondale97]

You know the bracelet is very well made when TGV doesn't replace it with a Nato. LOL

[@greenmarowak]

So glad you’re back, TGV.. But you’re videos are dangerous because I always get “the itch” to buy a new timepiece afterwards. Cheers from Chicago, Peter

[@tonymaiettasr.7340]

Peter S Me too!

[@randsp3c709]

Same

[@JeffreyThreat77]

I thought the Lorier Hydra was cool, but you flashed a Falcon with a white dial and gilt hands across the screen and I was smitten! I'm now at the Lorier site and drooling over one. Glad you're back! Keep up the great work and give Hugo my best! Toodle-pip!

[@giacomomargutti215]

white waffle dial of the Falcon is right on spot for me too

[@dreitzell78]

I agree, the white Falcon really looks nice!

[@DoubleVisionSoundSystem]

*Interesting fact: Their logo is in fact a translation; “Lorier”, pronounced the Same as “Laurier” which is french for “Bay” in reference to the Bay Leaf Tree. Their logo represents the leaves of said tree 🌿 Thanks for such a great review! 👌🏻

[@theurbangentry]

How wonderful, I had no idea. You are very knowledgeable and obviously cultured for knowing such details. Outstanding, thank you. Best regards, TGV

[@fratertater6130]

Forget Micro-Brand. That introduction was like taking a Micro-Dose!

[@taylorg1585]

I am so ready for some rapid fire Urban Gentry. Make it happen, captain.

[@FirestormAA]

Yeah man...... fire it up!!!!!! Freaking glad TGV is back!

[@RobertU167]

The sergeant's marks are called chevrons, though these would be considered "inverted" chevrons; their use as military insignia goes all the way back to the Spartans who painted a single lambda (one chevron) on their shields to stand for Laconia, which is the region of Greece where Sparta was basically the capital. BTW, the word "laconic" is derived from the region as Spartans were apparently rather thrifty with their words.

[@BikerJim74]

So glad you're back TGV.

[@samguerard7133]

Ok, i am litterally subbed to almost every watch channel on KZbin, and you sir are by far the best of them all! Keep videos coming!

[@mariog7213]

he definitely is one of the most cultured ones which is something i really like. his conversation pieces about life and class are for sure part of his allure

[@tomcryer1638]

I'm only 16 so don't quite have the money for one of these pieces, but I'm praying they stick around long enough for me to buy one new in a couple of years. They really are perfect in my opinion.

[@thijs5931]

Hell yeah you should! I'm 17 years old at the moment and saved a long time for my Seiko Alpinist and Orient Ray II, but looking back at all the work I did to be able to purchase them, I can definitely say it was worth it!

[@billmedic1995]

Tristano, your audience has spoken! A resounding applause for your return. And as far as this vid for the Lorier, your camera work is exemplary as always. A sensory treasure to behold.

[@markomarin3414]

Whenever I want to buy, the website always stated "sold out ". The things about micro brand their produce their product in limited quantities.

[@SebM72]

This watch is really nice, but it's just too close to the Baltic Aquascaphe. Which is just absolutely beautiful. Especially when matched with the stock beads of rice bracelet. Also the sides look slimmer on the Baltic. Still props to Lorier for making a good quality micro brand diver. I hope you make a video on it when it comes out!

[@rossdiljohn9222]

They are out of stock of the Neptune but I sent a message and they said they would be open to orders soon. Hopefully I will be able to share my opinion with everyone on the watch channels and watch sites.

[@owentreadgold8658]

Very nice parker Jotter in the background, I have ended up starting my own collection of them myself, I have 5 so far. Think I might get addicted to pens as well as watches now. Oppsie!

[@rujuwahyuwaluyoly3137]

I'm watching your channel for about a year now, and you really teach me how to appreciate timepiece. I'm itching to start my collection, which i started with my orient sun and moon.

[@theurbangentry]

What an excellent and tasteful watch to start with, enjoy the journey my friend. Thank you for the kind words, Onwards and upwards! Best regards, TGV

[@alexm2113]

So glad to have you back TGV. Can't wait to see what you have in store for 2019!

[@eusupporter8438]

agree

[@Steve-fx6ej]

The Baltic Aquascaphe is my vote for 2019, similar dimensions as this but a much more manageable thickness of around 12.5mm

[@theurbangentry]

I will hopefully review eventually. I was schedule to a few months back but I had to cancel it. Cracking watches. Thank you, Best regards, TGV

[@str4yf0x]

"Itches that scratch"... perfect!

[@havebadday7850]

Do you want old ww2 watches for a future episode? I have two German navy watches , different brands.

[@riseuplight]

HaveBad Day yes please

[@havebadday7850]

Well TGV need to say yes or no. How do other subscribers get in touch , do you know

[@TheMinarus]

I just purchased my first Lorier Watch, a Neptune II, Black and Gold, cannot wait....It is to be my second piece, I have been with my SKX007 for two years now, although i'm slow at it and take my time, it's the moment to add one thing of quality. And I don't count my old fashion watches in the collection lmao

[@OguzhLP]

Good Evening Sir! I thought I was on some drugs when I saw your intro. Luckily I'm clean!😂

[@TheHunterX3]

So glad you're back! Beautifully done review as always. Nowadays out there on the market are really interesting microbrands like Helm, Zelos, etc. of which I'd love to see more reviews. Some of their watches are truly unique, with own character, made by enthusiasts.

[@mariobianchi1909]

Glad to see a new "hi guys and welcome to the show" episode!! Welcome back and thank you for the "vintage-fascinating" Lorier review. Ciao!

[@speedwolf5212]

Imo, the Baltic Aquascaphe is the coolest retro styled diver from a micro brand on the market. Unimatic’s divers would be a close 2nd.

[@theurbangentry]

You are the second to say so and I agree to a certain degree. So sad I had to cancel the review, oh well, hopefully later. Anyways, maybe this year! Thank you, Best regards, TGV

[@daniels.9271]

Have you checked out Halios watches? It's a Canadian brand run by one person, and the time pieces are very much in demand. The last production run of Halios Seaforth watches sold out in less than five minutes. The cases are milled in Asia, but all the movements are ETA-2824-2 now. They're a bit more pricey (around $700), but some of their styles are extremely nice (I'm hoping to get the new Bronze Seaforth).

[@konsept011]

The lumed bezel with markers and no numbers makes it look really confusing

[@insert-name-here3350]

Hello everyone, just wanted to say thank you all for providing stories and knowledge about watches and everything surrounding timepieces as I begin my journey through horology. I just was given a few of my father's old Seikos he collected throughout the 70s and 80s that he doesn't wear anymore as well as his Baume et Mercier he got as a retirement gift (I know, a lucky start to a collection). My favorite though is my grandfather's Seiko that he left my mother when he died. We were told it was unfixable and won't ever work again. Turns out it was just in need of a battery! Not going to the watchsmith who told us that ever again. It's now the watch I wear to work in sales everyday while I'm in uni and it is my favorite. It got lost in a hay bale over a winter and when it was found in the spring, it was still running and kept perfect time. I think I will always have a few Seikos in my collection now.

[@salty-as-heck9915]

Three things to consider, when it's time for a service the cost will be as much or more than the value of the watch in used condition, so it's basically a throw away watch as you might as well buy another one new. Second, the watch is basically a mix of homages to other watches, so it doesn't have its own wow factor. Also, no sapphire which is not a deal breaker, but when combined with the rest of the strikes, it sort of is a let down. That for me is a pass.

[@steelstunners1862]

Sallent R Very good points, especially regarding the servicing. I’d rather save up and get a Black Bay 58. Amazing quality, value and vintage style that will last you a lifetime!

[@salty-as-heck9915]

@@steelstunners1862 the Black Bay is definitely a classy divers worth the cost of maintaining, and I think it will hold up well as a future vintage classic. Definitely a watch worth wearing and passing on as an heirloom piece to your child.

[@theurbangentry]

WOW, where do you service you watches, you are getting robbed!?! As for influences, having designed watches myself, I can tell you, like anything in life, it is far harder then it looks. I do not feel like this is a mix of homages, but then again, it is a matter of taste at the end of the day. I can not think of a watch this feels like in the flesh. Regarding the sapphire, I should of explained, in this case it is actually more expensive to put in to get the tolerances right for the water resistance, but you are right, it would be nice to have a sapphire option. Good points all the same, Thank you sir, Best regards, TGV

[@steelstunners1862]

Looking at it again now it reminds me a lot of the Omega Seamaster 300

[@salty-as-heck9915]

@@theurbangentry Thank you for your reply. Although we disagree as to this particular watch, I do appreciate your reviews and the efforts you go through to share your watch knowledge with the community. Thank you, TGV. You are a true gentleman.

[@brianjoseph2315]

Love your content and I’m so glad you’re back. Can you please do a beginner guide to watches and just explain anything someone may need to know?

[@nathanbills928]

Does anyone know why watch companies don't provide lug tip to lug tip measurements, only lug width? I'm in the market for a new watch and I'm trying to narrow down my options. But this is the one measurement that they don't give. It's a pain in the arse

[@AMM1998]

I believe it's the most important measurement. It doesn't matter if a watch has your ideal case size if the lugs are huge

[@Yetifur003658]

I agree. Very important measurement

[@nathanbills928]

@@Yetifur003658 Yet rarely provided.

[@squigglyphrank9348]

Google is your friend

[@nathanbills928]

@@squigglyphrank9348 Are you suggesting measuring on the actual screen? I have a bunch of watches i am interested in and am trying to narrow it down. Struggling to find the measurement in descriptions.

[@madrockwatchesadventure4501]

Gorgeous watches! The design is classic and timeless. No shouty colors or nonsense. Ive been in love with these since the last review you did. Thanks for the review!

[@brucecameron7172]

Nice watch with well thought out design. However, in my opinion it doesn't have a wow factor

[@Ultiman7]

I'd go as far as to call it bland.

[@HVG67]

For $300 you can get a killer Helm watch! Real diver, ISO specs, sapphire, lumed bezel etc etc.. so yeah I agree bland and not really great specs...

[@bravobear1844]

Adam Kienberger, your calling this watch bland? What watches do you consider not bland?

[@madrockwatchesadventure4501]

That's the appeal of this watch. The quiet finishes. A Helm is a different animal. I will never own an orange dial face Seiko Monster. This Lorier is gorgeous, clean, and smooth. However, it's an opinion. To each his own.

[@ramirosuarez1877]

That's the point. It's elegant and has a low profile. You could wear a helm Komodo or one of these depending on your outfit and/or the occasion.

[@brubrushanghai]

Thanks @tgv. Btw Lorier makes a whole fuss about acrylic sapphire rather than plain sapphire. Both have qualities. What’s your take?

[@bensigl3766]

I cant even explain how badly I just want a Neptune with that 6 o'clock date window!!!

[@davidbates247]

In fact all your intros look extremely slick high production value you know your going to get great content when you watch them great work !

[@nacozinhacomfernando]

I really like the look, in my opinion better than the Neptune however the lack of sapphire for me doesn’t work, I am a bit clumsy and usually scratch any non sapphire crystals very easily so until they come up with a sapphire crystal version I will be out. Love the bracelet by the Way

[@code6400]

Yes sapphire is necessary!

[@davidmichienzi101]

Fantastic review sir, just received my Lorier Neptune gen2. Its simply amazing👍🇮🇹😎

[@Shadowwalker1717]

The Watch lose my interest absolute at the part that these watches do not have saphire crystal only the scrash and crack magnet plexi/hesalite.

[@giacomomargutti215]

It's no diver, but their Falcon with that stunning waffle dial took my heart.

[@pedcarr]

Are you going to make a full review of the Phoibos diver watches?

[@simongchadwick]

Those look nice. I double the sapphire crystal is real, though. I got a $55 Stührling diver on Amazon, and it's a great daily beater watch, which has been worn swimming in the ocean and rivers, and keeps near perfect time.

[@indyawichofficial1346]

Most interesting channel, to me shines leagues above the rest with its content, and its presentation. You Sir, are the type of man we fathers present to our sons as an rare example of pure gentleman. I bow to your knowledge and culture blended with true honesty and humbleness. Kind Regards.

[@tolkienboutstuff446]

Thanks to you TGV, I purchased the V2 Neptune! I’ve been following the Lorier story since your first review and I’ve been in love ever since. It’s now my favorite watch!

[@ManoloVintage]

Killer bracelet! I love long in the indices. Long indices pop and stand out from a distance. Drilled lugs and a matching color date wheel in blue shows that they didnt cut corners on design. This watch is so good looking.

[@halldl5]

I do NOT love those watches. I do love that you are back, TGV! You were truly missed.

[@kavolis]

Lorier Neptune user here. I Like the look of the watch. It's pity that plexi glass is prone to scratches - accidental contact with various surfaces is inevitable, because the watch itself is pretty thick and the glass dome is the firs who takes the impact. This is my biggest concern with it. Any suggestions for polisher?

[@alexmartina6064]

OMG. I've waited so patiently for this review of this watch. Thank you TGV!!!!

[@PT111111]

That looks really good until it's worn. The lugs are just too long for a smaller wrist.

[@DoubleDeckerAnton]

Kaleidoscope of effects ...love the intro 😁👍

[@theurbangentry]

Anton! Always makes me happy to hear from you, I hope this finds you well. Thank you, Best regards, TGV

[@bogrot69]

Yes, brilliant intro

[@DoubleDeckerAnton]

@@theurbangentry ...I'm always smiling when you upload too TGV...!!! 😀 You have got me into watches this past year...!!! ⌚😁🔝👍

[@willskittles5544]

I also have a first gen Neptune. Best bracelet you will find in this price range. I actually love the blank caseback and got mine engraved. The story is they did leave it blank so you can.

[@RondelayAOK]

Lorier is gorgeous----hey, Lorier, please toss a Miyota 9015 in this stuff.

[@MrBacchus18]

and make the case thinner

[@jacobkohler]

@@MrBacchus18 Ditto on the thinner case - Would also like to see a slightly smaller case offering similar to that of the Tudor 75090/79090 lineup.

[@saprissa9]

I'm actually glad that you make videos of micro brands.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you, it would be a crying shame not to right?! So many great value offering out there. Best regards, TGV

[@saprissa9]

@@theurbangentry yes absolutely! It's only fair to give them a chance.

[@rene_falk]

I like micro brands too. You can find some pretty non mainstream gems. Yesterday I ordered a funny watch from Mr. Jones Watch (London, UK).

[@davideljones1982]

While the design is undoubtedly good, the appearance, to me, is quite 'plasticy'. Hour markers look plastic. Finishing on the edge of the bezel insert didn't look well complete. I'm also not keen on the intensity of the colours. Maybe a little less brightness in the colours would give it a real vintage feel. I think the first generation Neptune appears to have got it right when you compare the two. To top it off, the movement in this watch is super cheap and I would never buy it for that alone. Not for the money they are asking.

[@Number_006]

Good to have you back TGV. Yours is by far the most enjoyable watch channel out there-informative, lighthearted, and good fun. Cheers!

[@owentreadgold8658]

Please can you do a video looking at Bark and Jack’s nato straps to see if they are as good as people claim

[@chasberndt2255]

Thoughts on the Baltic Aquascaphe?

[@danielgorman8725]

If TGV and Andertons stopped releasing videos at the same time, I'd have to book myself into an asylum.

[@marianog9969]

You NEED to do a review on the Hydra Series II. I predict it will soon be their #1 seller.

[@BiffTannenBTTF]

My $100 railmaster homage with miyota movement has screwed links. No excuses for using pins these days.

[@jamesmcnary4939]

I like that the Ortega’s chose 39mm to make it unisex. You can do his and her’s Loriers.

[@jerhunt4561]

I like the simple lines of this watch but the non sapphire domed crystal won’t work for me. I am a klutz and rough on my watches.

[@jamesmartone1901]

Glad you're back. I received my Lorier Neptune II just a few days ago. Purchased based on your review and it is fantastic.

[@goldtoothjacko]

T, Keep em coming man. Quality video as always. Top job. Best Matthew

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you number 1. Best regards, TGV

[@sisyphus8870]

Best intros on a watch channel hands down.

[@Lolan1111]

I ordered a Neptune in December 2018 and mine is supposed to ship out in the first week of April. I can't wait! So excited!

[@davidhammond9336]

Great camera work and still shots. Well balanced and informative review on a very nice watch. Thanks enjoyed it.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you David, so glad to hear. Best regards, TGV

[@theriftless5324]

Got the Lorier Falcon in PVD Gold with the Onyx Black dial and am loving it so far, amazing watch. Thank you TGV for putting me onto Lorier in the first place. Love the videos keep it up.

[@9tophat]

TGV, I am so glad you're back. I messaged you a couple times on FB. I'm hoping you received them. You and your efforts are much appreciated. Please do more with Hugo. Looking forward to more great reviews.👍😎

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you my friend. I do not actually use the FB messaging system, Please email at [e-mail] That way I can get your messages. O&U! Best regards, TGV

[@solorex2383]

Best microbrand diver 2019, judging from looks and specs, is imho the Helm Komodo!

[@Blueski43]

Nice enough I suppose, in an uninvolving way, but the case height is an instant non-starter for me. The Hamtun Kraken is the hot micro-brand diver under $400 right now ... £330K+ pledged on Kickstarter ... and still climbing ... with 1100+ backers !

[@bensigl3766]

Now the Series II uses the Miyota 9015 plus an internal bezel with numerals. Almost perfect! But, there is a $100 price increase.

[@4730301]

I have a Lorier Neptune and it has been a great watch, thanks to you TGV for introducing it to me. One improvement I can suggest, in low light conditions the hr and min hands look the same length lume wise. I couldn't tell if it was 12:05 or 1:00. Maybe the arrow on the minute hand instead would solve that. Otherwise awesome watch, keeping it for sure. Thanks.

[@theurbangentry]

That makes my day to hear that. Great idea btw for the hands, Thank you LW, keep enjoying your Neptune. Best regards, TGV

[@andrewking6178]

Nice! Another vid closer to the young enthusiast budget. I really appreciate that. Could you possibly do a video on some of the less known brands like Boccia, Grovana, Bering, Element etc.? It could broden up the spectrum for the young (read: "you-have-no-money") people like me. I must say you really inspired me by the way. By this time a week I almost ordered Vincero as my 1st watch but after a little research (and most gratitude to you and your channel) I´m certain I don´t want to do that. But as a design studen I´m quite picky and the top 10 of your choice doesn´t fully satisfy my taste. So please, pretty please give us more of an insite into brands like these, positive and negative. Anyway thumbs up! ;)

[@ricardocastells5497]

My favorite comment: "You only have to go to the Uffizi..." Notes to self: 1) Buy one of these cracking watches, 2) Wear it in Florence and take a selfie wrist check in front of Hercules and the Hydra.

[@TazioN]

Reminds me of the classic Blancpain fifty fathoms.

[@suckgames]

Do you recommend buying lorier or save money and buy a more expensive watch?

[@shanenelson3438]

Good to have you back on schedule!

[@theurbangentry]

Equally great to hear from you Shane, O&U! Thank you, Best regards, TGV

[@TheDontbeEvil]

I like the way this looks. What other watches with a similar style design that uses thick double domed sapphire and sub-1k-ish in price?

[@fredrikfencke2087]

Happy to see you're uploading again! The lack of numbers on the bezel seems a bit unpractical if you want to time something for longer than 15 minutes. It still looks beautiful though - especially the blue one on the bracelet.

[@nicktrnka1480]

TGV, so happy that you are back. Overall, I, too, like Lorier, but $399 is on the high side for its' specs. The retro vibe and influences are cool and it appears to be finished well. At that price range, perhaps a high beat movement would be better. It makes the Phoibos Eagle Ray seem like a better deal, (high beat and sapphire.)

[@kennethMblake]

Magnificent intro. I am transfixed and the episode hasn’t even begun yet.

[@lliameasterbrook6634]

Good to have you back, TGV! And another great intro, too.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Lliam, always appreciated. Best regards, TGV

[@ElijsDima]

Hey TGV, you might want to take a peek at the Geckota E-01 (from the watchgecko chaps out of UK)... a 36.5mm, 12mm thin explorer-like watch with a boxed sapphire, 100m WR, 20mm lugs, fume dial, good lume, and a proper eta 2824-2 movement.. For about £360... I think it would give these Loriers a proper thrashing. More importantly, it would probably fit your wrist really well. (I got mine recently and it's been way better than I had expected. Kind of a shame that people seem to ignore the geckota brand for some reason over on watch forums).

[@ashtavicknesh8233]

I have a tough decision in making a choice of buying a watch from seiko divers which are SRPB55 and SNE498P1 and the SRPD14K1. Which watch will be double in value?? or which one will be cheaper to maintain?? pls help me out

[@craigwatt5696]

I was wondering if you had encountered the "Hamtun" micro - brand from the UK. Their latest project : the H2 Kraken has been well over-suscribed no doubt due to earlier successes, and review models have turned up on a couple of sites. At first gance it seems fairly impressive - Titanium build (case and bracelet), saphire crystal, with a Seiko NH35 movement, for a current committtment of just over two hundred pounds. I would be interested to hear your opinion.

[@dbrph]

Welcome back🙏

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

These watches are amazing, just a great start to the year. Looking forward to next video. Keep up the good work.

[@WatchReview]

That intro tho

[@chessplayer1000]

It's a smart watch.Subtle class we don't see enough of in todays divers. There coming out with the neptune 2 with upgrades to the lume and chapter ring.With that they are increasing there dial size but leaving the case size alone. Increaseing the dial size might not appeal to those with smaller wrists that fell in love with the classic dial size they first came out with.The watch battle will be between Lorier and Baltic watch when it comes down to the classic diver.The Baltic sports a saphire crystal. Another great review!!

[@frankdux6930]

Sir, you rock. Glad your back! You tube hasnt been the same without you.

[@atheistmercenary7464]

So nice to have you back, missed you👍👍👍👍

[@waldenswonderfulworldofwat3129]

Great review. Which watch would you recommend?: The Hamilton Khaki Pilot Day Date (Interstellar) Sinn 104

[@brucecameron7172]

Sinn any day of the week..

[@ArexRee000]

Rangerdog my Sinn 104 is easily my favorite watch. I wear it every day. Runs about +3 sec/day for me

[@waldenswonderfulworldofwat3129]

Thanks!

[@dapa6168]

Man, I am hooked! Love your content. Greetings from Germany!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you :D Best regards, TGV

[@eusupporter8438]

@dapa Sehe ich genau so. 👍

[@sk8parj]

They are very nice, but the Neptune is Pure Class!! Had mine for about a year since your first video on Lorier, and absolutely love it! And love what you do as well. 👌

[@allthestroke88]

Welcome back glad to see your review as I wake up at work. For anyone who would say "Oh I can get a Seiko", I don't think Seiko make a sub 40mm diver at this price point so that argument sort of falls flat.

[@elarson3]

Skx013 is 38mm...??

[@rodzx8064]

Awesome, really good quality video and audio, not to mention a very non bias approach. Making me seriously consider this brand as my next watch... Excellent

[@captaincopconner2663]

Man I will admit lorier knows how to make a classic looking diver

[@olafm2416]

spent the last couple weeks with watching your old videos and i must admit you caught me ....... well done ! Greetings from Frankfurt

[@lndyrd]

the Lorier watches are all 499 now. Did they mention why the price hike?

[@tonysmithyman1495]

Good to have you back, still the most comprehensive reviews on You Tube bar none, I love the detail you go into Tristano, see you on the next video 😊

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much Tony, You are an absolute gent for saying so. Best regards, TGV