This Collection Costs Less than a Longines...

In this video, I try to do the impossible: Build a 4 watch collection for $2000 with minimal compromises. For that we have to look at the wonderful world of microbrands!
Watch Stand: amzn.to/3Hm4ywH
Join the best online community for talking watches: Watchcrunch.com

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Further the discussion at: www.watchcrunch.com/Max/posts/can-you-build-a-4-watch-collection-for-2000-24699

[@hongsitu3429]

If those are the watches you desire, great. If you are buying to fill a spot or because someone said to, then you are wasting money and are that much farther from what you desire. Save up and buy what you truly want.

[@marvinberwart]

Yup, I call those watches "content watches" because the only use I can see hoarding this type of watches is creating online content for YT, IG and the likes...

[@davidroberts7213]

Ah - but what do we really want ? A very expensive watch which must be good because it’s very expensive! Take a car I would love a top of the range sports car ( circa 200 thousand ) So by your logic I should save up until I get what I really want ? Your logic is flawed my friend . Long live the Casio’s of this world

[@MrCliteatswood]

@@davidroberts7213 1) Cars are an essential item 2) Casio would actually be a good filler watch, he's referring to watches of a far higher price bracket. Your logic here is deeply flawed, just strawmen and false equivalency

[@hongsitu3429]

@@davidroberts7213 umm if you are spending tens of thousands on a car wouldnt you buy what you really want? Same with a watch. Why spend $2k buying casios and seikos when you really want a Seamaster just to scratch the itch. Now you are back at $0.

[@maihakili1]

@@davidroberts7213Your point is well taken sir. It simply considers that we have or should have other financial priorities no matter how much we love watches. So yes, I do want a Rolex Explorer 2. I also rather save than spend 10k on buying a watch. So yes, I bought a “cheaper watch”. No, I don’t have some ridiculous unbearable itch. I love my new watch. It’s not a Rolex. I own my watches. They don’t own me. Period.

[@lukewalker1051]

Beautiful montage Max. Exhibiting your great taste and relevant to the watch lover on a budget which is most of us. 😊 A thoughtful collection, thanks.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Thanks Luke 😊

[@lane2063]

After spending a great deal of money on my last two watches (Speedy and Monaco) I’m now focusing on micro-brands for two reasons; bang for my buck and having more fun. It will also be nice to have watches that no one else will have, which is the reason I don’t own or want a Rolex. Great video and thanks for the ideas.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Exactly! Micros are all about having fun on a budget 😁

[@keith4948]

I love the Lorier bracelet. It has fully articulating links and it’s light with a clasp that is not big and bulky. I like it more than any other watch bracelet I have owned.

[@_taxman_]

Same. I liked their older version more than the one on their current models which have more rounded finishings. The totally flat links from before look so cool in the light.

[@amenhotep7704]

The Lorier's Design is very nice, thank you Max

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Love it 👍

[@jimmski9908]

Started collecting about a year ago, and I agree that there is so much value in the micro-brand space. My current diver is a Nodus Retrospect 3 and it is super comfortable to wear. Of your list, I like the Falcon, but it is a bit to small for my liking.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Check out the new Nodus GMT as well 👌

[@WtfReal]

@@WatchCrunchOfficial they’re all sold out

[@fyioska]

Nice selection. I have the Photic and was my favourite purchase of last year! Shame you can't buy them now for those that missed out!

[@notsimple270]

Probably my favorite video from your chanel so far. The Maen brooklyn looks amazing in brown and green

[@KaiserSoze679]

This is the first video of yours I've seen and already you've earned a subscriber for one simple reason: I've probably seen DOZENS of these "small collection" type videos, and this is the first one where I've liked every single watch presented. Clearly you're a man of impeccable taste. :) Keep up the great work.

[@karlgustav5490]

glad you have a nezumi in your collection! history of this brand and his creator is very interessant, it' s an artist and he loves his job. my son is his exclusive photographer and content manager. him & I own 6 Nezumi, they are amazing and elegants. it's nice to see review on these microbrands owned by passionate peoples who love there job!

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Wow, what a connection! Yes David seems super creative 👍

[@sligo405]

This is a really well thought out collection. Interesting watches. Makes me crazy that I can't buy another watch every 5 days.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

An eternity 😂

[@antonbayda2571]

Great video, I really like the idea of gathering a collection for a certain amount of money, keep it up!

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Cheers Anton 🤙

[@Fatdogrecords]

Only just got into watch channels, while I was Ill over Xmas. Love your channel and the watches you choose to review. 🤛🏻

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Thanks Neil, welcome to the jungle 😂

[@Dragon_rls]

Very nice collection Max. Thanks for posting 👍.

[@UrielMontenegro]

Love the collection, immediately preordered the Nezumi. 🏎

[@HaonProductions]

I could honestly be tempted to have a collection of all Maens. This new dress watch and their recent GMT are both gorgeous.

[@rf4790]

Great list. I have owned Maen and Lorier. Maen has improved a lot since launch, and Lorier has refined. Cheers.

[@phil5611]

Love you content. I just subscribed and appreciate your approach - - you are clear with your scores but not judgemental. I knew the first three and had my eye on the Maen, just not sure about the size, and will look into the the last one. Cheers.

[@PabloM02]

Yes! love to see more coverage of the Photic. The deep blue + bronze gilt colorway is the best one, even if the colors are seen a lot, I think the design makes it stand out.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

totally agree!

[@atulyeshwantsant576]

Superb value for money and yet very tasteful

[@luqmanm6105]

Cool set of selection!. That Nezumi one really catch me.

[@eldritchweather]

Great finds love them!

[@RedwoodAggie]

I don't love the 36mm watches, but I'm a very tall guy with a 7.25" wrist haha. It's all about proportions. 38 fits me like a 36 does on regular sized people, so I do get the enjoyment of a compact watch. A friend has the Nezumi Voiture mecha-quartz in blue and likes it. The Photic diver is also super cool and a decent vintage diver kind of size for me. I'm glad the Photics sold out, because I hope it means he'll keep making more cool watches. The Lorier is a stunner and I think the details are great. I understand why they went 36mm, but unfortunately it's not for me at that size. I think they overall nailed this version of it though.

[@chriscon8463]

Great video & selections! I really love my Falcon II.

[@morgan97475]

Great video with a cool selection of watches.

[@mt24Carson]

Thanks Max. Clemence is a good selection, dial colors are great. Do not have a watch from them (sold out), though I was able to pick up their sailcloth/rubber strap. Absolute top quality, wear it with several watches. Another brand to consider is Sangin Instruments... mostly quartz, though built tough. ⌚👍

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

He told me there'll be more coming 🤙

[@artswri]

Nice collection Thanks for sharing

[@darrenl8290]

Some interesting new microbrands, thanks.

[@bronco1199]

Great choices, I want this collection!

[@nathanbaker1868]

I looked at one of the other Lorier models last year and completely overlooked the Falcon. That’s a very nice look. I bought too many watches in 2022 and was planning to skip any purchases this year, but dang it, now I’m seriously considering the Falcon.

[@adams1253]

did you pick one up?

[@_taxman_]

One thing I've always struggled with is knowing what month it is. Awesome to see some newer intros to the watch game address this issue!

[@Kentuckycelt]

Really good selection great video thank you.

[@johnbuckmaster569]

Awesome video! I’m lucky enough to have a couple In my collection would be considered ‘luxury’… But my collection extends from $20 Casio’s and up to my Sinn, Omega, Rolex. I love my microbrands! 20+ in my collection. In many cases they make me question having spent the money I have on those ‘luxury’ watches.

[@wrightstmcps7131]

Love this set of watches, especially the Nezumi.

[@jamesssss621]

All good picks. The last Chronograph is pretty slick though.

[@AdrianLBarkerATL]

These watches are very nice. I’m really digging the look of the Clemence and Maen in regards to the overall aesthetics. The size is all about preference and should not be overemphasized in my humble opinion. To each its own. Your timepieces look and vibe, according to ones proportions, are unique. It can be whatever you want it to be.

[@cinnabuns8266]

I’ve got a Falcon on order right now. Can’t wait. Would love to see you review Islander watches. I just picked up the robin egg (cough tiffany) blue brookville and it’s a very fun OP alternative.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Nice! You won't be disappointed 👍

[@lknight7798]

I have a big doubt if go on falcon 3 or Smiths everest. If i can ask, Having had them both in your hands, which one would you buy or recommend, and why?

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Tough one but I'd go with the Lorier, it's not a straight up copy of the explorer.

[@atharkhan240]

Great review - thank you

[@kristiangustafson4130]

I had a Nezumi... in the end sold it as I just didn't gel with it. But seeing this... I remember why I bought it in the first place!

[@cmatz175]

waffles are good. so are croffles!

[@kojiattwood]

That Maen is really sharp! PS: "NORM!!!!"

[@alwayspooh1588]

As usual, a really good and balanced video. The Clemence caught my eye most, but there is not a great deal on their website regarding images. Anyway, Max, good video.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Yeah he's gotta update the site. Check out his IG 👍

[@perrybucsdad]

@WatchCrunch, I see a really cool olive drab green watch roll in this video... where did you get that? I love it!!

[@canadianwatchmonkey3992]

The NEZUMI has been on my radar for some time now. Love the retro styling on this one

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

At that price, it's a no brainer. A real darling on the wrist!

[@bradsparks6008]

I'll tell you, people need to start looking at lorier... Some of the watches they make are just superb! I have the Hyperion GMT

[@135ipocketrocket2]

NORM!!!! 😂🤣 Great video! Personally, I'll keep saying that Micros are making their own history. All brands began somewhere and adding so much cost for a "heritage" brand is a dubiously worthwhile compromise. When a watch specs well, it specs well, period. I love the Micro sphere in watch collecting. I'd score them higher than many, if not most, tired old "big" brands.

[@lukewalker1051]

You have great taste. Nice picks Max.

[@sabir2007in]

Need advice. Which hand should one wear watch on, be it smartwatches also. I'm a left handed person. I'm confused I have tried on both the hands still can't decide.

[@BEYSeamaster1]

I love the Maen. Thanks for the video.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Cheers buddy 🍻

[@lanky-x782]

Thank you for reviewing the Lorier Falcon III. Yours is one of the few videos reviewing the Falcon III that's out there I looked at before my purchase. I am one of those people that A. Won't jump through ridiculous hoops to get a watch. Unfortunately that puts the Smiths Everest off my list. B. Not gonna deal with snooty dealers for the "priveledge" of begging for or paying $9000 + for a watch. They can keep it. That's why I chose a Grand Seiko for my dress watch. It's not the cost so much as how the company treats their customers. like the everyday practicality of the 36mm Rolex explorer but wanted a new watch and to be honest the stories I've heard on dealing with a Rolex AD turns me off to the brand. My ultimate wish list: 36mm case, an acrylic crystal, a closed caseback, 100 meters wr, a manual wind movement for the slimmest case. Something new straight out of the 1950's. Something I could take in the field. Get soaked in a river if need be. I gotta say the Lorier Falcon III hit almost every single wish. The miyota 9000 series is a perfect choice to get that slim case. I actually like the bracelet. Puts out the tool vibe I wanted and is comfortable for me. I cut my teeth modding Vostoks so acrylic crystals are no problems for me. In fact they do give any dial a warmer vintage feel and while out in the field a little white toothpaste and a damp cloth polishes the crystal nicely if scratched. I'm still trying to decide if the waffle dial and hands will grow on me but at least its not a direct Rolex copy which is good. It would be nice if Lorier would offer a matte black or charcoal dial as an option and in future releases maybe slim down the base of the hour and minute hands. The base of the minute hand feels just a tad too wide that draws too much attention to it. It's still new to me so I think this may change the more it's worn.

[@harrisonvanandel9435]

Awesome video. Just stumble upon your videos when looking for a new watch to get and I was in between a GMT and a field watch for my next watch and decided on the field. I actually went with the Lorier Falcon because it has all the styling i’m looking for in addition to a screw down crown for adventures. The accrylic crystal is was not at all a deal breaker for me because I have one on my Omega Speedmaster and it has functioned amazingly over 5 years now. I was also looking at Seikos new GMT, but I actually really liked the printed indices on the SKX/Turtle as well as the clicky bezel and screw down crown. Be it my opinion, I think the fact the seiko is a GMT does not warrant taking away all those simple benefits the SKX had like a clicky bezel, Screw down crown, and beautiful printed indices. I would have paid an extra 50-100 to keep all that. I also didn’t like the seiko 5 logo on it, it made it feel cheap to me. Not to turn this into a Seiko bash, really awesome watch and wouldn’t blame anyone who decided it, but after seeing Lorier I think you jus the such a cooler and equally capable watch for your money. Thanks for the video!

[@albertoruiz5651]

Please consider taking a look at Formex watches, they are killer for the price. All the best!

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

I've made a video on formex 👍

[@Dialandhands]

My Lorier Falcon 3 is by far my favorite in my collection. The dial, the polishing, the bracelet, etc makes it just absolutely fantastic. I retract my gripe😅🙈 I love the acrylic crystal. Now that I’ve had more time with the Falcon, it really is the watch I compare the rest of my watches to. It’s just perfect TO ME😁

[@yusufbest4475]

Actually, to me, the acrylic makes it tougher for daily wear.. scratches can be removed with polywatch but if it shatters, then, it has to be replaced and acrylic is less prone to shattering as compared to sapphire.. the watches that went to the moon and the mt everest had acrylic crystal so it should be reliable..

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

I feel like that was a purpose decision to get the vintage explorer look.

[@Dialandhands]

@@yusufbest4475 I think I’m just gonna have to get over it then😅 I take very good care of my watches so I’m probably over thinking it😂

[@ryanpeck3377]

@@yusufbest4475 In theory yes, sapphire could shatter. however in practice that’s extremely hard to do. If sapphire was that fragile then they wouldnt have the box domed versions that sit above the bezel... All that being said Acrylic crystal is more resilient than many think and all but very deep scratches can be removed with some poly watch.

[@chriscon8463]

I really love my black/gilt Falcon II! Between the weight, thickness, & size, it’s easily my most comfortable watch. I really like what Lorier did with the gen-III bracelet & black/silver color though!

[@kevinfestner6126]

Where did you get the watch display rack? LOL you anticipated my question. TY

[@Therealgdoesgshit]

I have a longines It’s way cooler than all of them together For me I love it and I’m very happy with my longines

[@Robinson8491]

If Maen used that recessed dial in their chronograph and this same esthaetic, I would definitely get one

[@notsimple270]

Great finds!

[@chrisgrieves1468]

Waited a while to say this TV reference: "Good thinking, Max"! Of course the continuing issue with the good micro-brands is the in stock/sold out nature of the beast. You have to be on the case. Two personal favourites not here are Direnzo and Baltic.

[@RaideN-xs3lq]

Could someone link me the watch holder he shows at the beginning, where the 4 watches are lined side by side? I have been looking for an open holder like that for some time. Thanks!

[@LaniusExcubitor1337]

Great set!

[@rob5631]

Nice group of watches. I've had my eye on the Nezumi for a few years now but just never pulled the trigger because I already have a couple of nice (to me) chronographs. Oh and not to be critical, but "Ruf" is pronounced like the "roof" of your house. Cheers and keep up the great content!

[@willsherman3527]

Cool collection. Take a look at Vaer. They're an American micro brand. Some great watches

[@brianpercival1829]

A fellow Porsche nut. My grail would be the 980 GT. Great content again. Excellent quality and value.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Thanks Brian!

[@SpaceG95]

Just posted my first G-Shock on the site. Got lots of great compliments and suggestions for the second purchase.

[@ColinBenjamin]

That’s a nice little 4-piece collection for the money!

[@TerrySteiner]

Nezumi Studio is great. I used to own the two tone version until a few months ago The Voiture is a great watch but I'm concerned that Nezumi has not come out with any new designs in a while.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

True, I hope they are cooking up sometime good 👍

[@karlgustav5490]

@@WatchCrunchOfficial they are ;)

[@canadianwatchmonkey3992]

Enjoyed this one!

[@pinu4445]

Nice collection 👍❤️

[@amo4378]

Had never heard of Nezumi till this video - love their style. Will be next.. just can’t pick which yet!

[@amo4378]

@ᴛᴇxᴛ ᴍᴇ ᴏɴ ᴛᴇʟᴇɢʀᴀᴍ👉@Watche_Crunch is this legit..? Sounds like a scam..

[@RagnarHoff]

This is what it's about. Heavily influenced by retro designs and just a joy to have.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Love that vintage influence!

[@andre.bouchard]

My disinterest in higher tier expensive brands have left me with few semi grails that are totally achievable. Like the Longine Big Eye and the automatic version of the Nezumi Voiture. That design speak to me like no other chrono do. I really like the blue model but it's the one that you have that i prefer over all.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Yeah it's a super striking watch on the wrist!

[@larsdragl670]

The longines big eye is a awesome watch. Always amazes me when windowshopping!

[@idid1866]

Very cool set😎🤙

[@lmv2.787]

I've been on a micro brand kick and I've been enjoying it

[@Big_Black_Clock]

You Pretty much nailed it

[@skorpionz1]

surprised you didn't mention a prx I bought a quartz one beautiful green fkr 225 dollars I think that's a great money for brushed case amazing braclet and the high polish edges

[@mikeg3811]

Lorier is a champ! Really like watches from them.

[@underdog5081]

Great reference to “Cheers”

[@pejmansehatpour7838]

I really liked the Brooklyn 36. 👍🏻

[@darrenhojnacki6636]

Check out VAER divers US assembly option. I have the Meridian

[@ShashwatShukla10]

Hey... Does the Maen have AR coating on the crystal?

[@wendyandgeoffpattison2610]

Microbrands aren't always the bargain that we think. Peter Kotsa recently reviewed a Korean Pitzman that was over a thousand dollars. And they didn't make the watch. Miyota movement etc. No date, no titanium. Not a bargain at all.

[@rickblanchette4483]

I have a micro brand (Undone) and I love it, but it's not that expensive to grab a Hamilton which is a great brand and incredible value.

[@chadgraber4575]

I love watches. I love Cheers. Two thumbs up.

[@pauloftsushima3580]

The Wise hitman is perfect affordable alternative to the explorer 2..people have praised for the outstanding finish..wprth checking it out

[@Alan-zy2kp]

Good to be here !

[@montanaheaventush]

youve left out a list of links to where you can buy them 😉 great choices though

[@tankt13]

How appropriate, I just so happen to be wearing my Longines Hydro Conquest 39 while watching this video

[@gbiscuits]

that Maen is amazing!

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Seriously cool design 👌

[@twostitchstraps]

Great video as always Max! Thanks for the shout-out 🙌

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Thanks for making this kick ass strap 👏👏

[@lucvandriel2408]

I have the Falcon II, absolutely love it. My other watch is the sarb035 wich i also love. I am planning to order the Maen as well. You said it is available for preorder which is not true. The preorder starts in april 2023. Other than that, great video.

[@maenwatches]

Pre-orders open on March 15th! :)

[@trebm3]

You call it out but my biggest gripe with micro brands is their limited runs and then resellers cost to get one if you miss. I was lucky to grab at Brew Metric. But they sell for 1.5-2x that on eBay.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Yeah I think it's a byproduct of now owning the production, they have to make batch orders and will always undershoot than overstock

[@turnbasedtoddy7664]

Do you like the Lorier better than the smiths Everest for an explorer alternative? That would make a great comparison video

[@Anirossa]

Would say laco scores higher than 6 on their history aspect. But the majority of micro brands I can agree with you on.

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Yeah I don't consider Laco me a microbrand

[@Anirossa]

@WatchCrunch Would you consider Stowa and/or Yema a microbrand?

[@calebdlara]

@@Anirossa I'm not sure you understand the generally accepted definition of "microbrand"

[@Anirossa]

@Caleb Am I wrong if I think it is a small brand that you generally have to google to find out exist, (a small brand you generally don't find in any watch stores, just online, unless you are close to where they are produced, like within the same country). If this is wrong, I'd like to hear the definition

[@calebdlara]

@@Anirossa You knowing about the brand or not via Google doesn't define the business. It's a startup brand that designs (not manufactures) their watches, usually in batches due to the small size and limited funds available to them. The money generated from the previous batchs' sales is used to create the next batch or product. Laco (for example) is an old brand that manufactures its own products and doesn't rely on batch sales to drive its next product.

[@brianmsahin]

A very nice collection. Well done.. All a bit on the small size for me.. Maybe you can do a collection of 4 for those with 8" wrists, maybe 42 to 44mm😉

[@MichaelWilliams-mo1vv]

These are ok as one off individual watches. However when you add up the cost of buying several obscure brands you could be halfway to buying a big band branded watch like an IWC, Omega etc

[@XHobbiesPrime]

That Maen is phenomenal looking.

[@grahamwarner8731]

Great stuff! I totally agree. Even if you have the means to buy four swiss luxury watches microbrands give you so much more. The Falcon snd Brooklyn are stars. What do you think about the Lorca GMT making the rounds?

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

The Lorca is gorgeous, love the steel bezel

[@grahamwarner8731]

@@WatchCrunchOfficialtotally agree! I kicked off a thread on WatchCrunch.

[@shergill4301]

Good work brother

[@WatchCrunchOfficial]

Thanks dude 👍