Brand Archives - Watch Ideas

April 25, 2021April 27, 2021

Armitron Watch Review: High-Style Watches for Less

If you have been shopping for new watches in online superstores like Amazon, there’s a good chance that you’ve stumbled upon the brand Armitron – I know I did. From what I’ve seen, Armitron offers a wide range of watches and it seems to be a brand catered to the lower price market. It seems to be an interesting brand that compelled me to write this Armitron watch review.

There are so many unknown watch brands out there and they’re all competing for your attention. Many pull you in with their unique and beautiful designs while others attract you with their budget-friendly price point. Armitron seems to be the happy medium of both spectrums as it offers some good-looking designs (albeit derivative) but for a good price.

Today, we check out the Armitron watch brand. We take a look at the history of the brand, the things that we love and don’t love about it, and highlight some of the best Armitron watches out there.

About Armitron Watches

My first impression with Armitron is that it’s an up and coming brand and that it’s fairly new. However, I was surprised when I found out that it’s been around since 1956 and was founded by the gentleman called Eugen Gluck in Little Neck, New York. According to the Armitron website, the brand is:

Devoted to nurturing the spirit of individuality with high-quality, high-style watches at affordable price points.

This is about right because Armitron strikes me as a lifestyle, boutique watch brand. Also, Armitron claims that it looks to highlight personal style among others instead of being influenced by others. On the Armitron blog reads,

Driven by the understanding that a timepiece is both a common thread and a distinguishing factor.

True enough, Armitron provides a wide range of timepiece collections that should appeal to everyone. From Swarovski steel watches to rugged sports chronograph, there’s really is an Armitron watch for everyone.

Having said that, Armitron seeks to appeal to the younger generation with watches that come in hip designs but with affordable price points. Armitron is becoming very popular in the United States and is gaining quite a lot of traction in the UK as well. In fact, the brand has been endorsed by sports teams and professional athletes such as Jerry Rice, Boomer Esiason, Darryl Strawberry, Dwight Gooden, Larry Bird, and more. The brand is also a current sponsor of the New York Yankees.

Armitron Watch Review: The Pros and Cons

Is Armitron a good watch brand? Here are the things that we love and don’t love about this U.S.-based lifestyle watch brand.

What We Love

Wide Range of Options

One of the many things that are going for Armitron is its long list of watch collections. The brand has a collection for Dress, Travel, Casual, Sports, and Night Out watches. Also, both men and women have given a lot of attention so there’s definitely something here for everyone. There’s some overlap between the two categories in terms of themes but the designs and aesthetics are decidedly distinct.

Apart from these collections, Armitron also offers their watches by types like Sports, Analog, Solar, and Graffiti. The graffiti collection is particularly interesting due to the youthful street design that fits the name.

I have to admit that the sheer number of watches offered by Armitron can be quite overwhelming. However, with the lower-end price point, you can purchase multiple watches if you’re having difficulties when choosing. And this brings us to the next appealing aspect of Armitron

Budget-Friendly Timepieces

Perhaps the best thing about the Armitron brand is the price. Simply put, Armitron is a brand that targets the lower-end market. I’ve been checking out Armitron watches and there are only a few models that are sold for over $100 like the Armitron Adventure AD/1004BKTIBK.

Other than that, the majority of Armitron models are priced between $20 to $100, and that’s a lot of watches to choose from. That’s right, you can find Armitron units that are priced in the 20s like the Armitron 204604DBSVBK Dress Swarovski. But if you dig even deeper, you’ll find watches as low as $12 (although it’s for sale) such as the Armitron Sport 45/7053.

When it comes to price, it’s hard to argue with what Armitron has to offer. If you’re looking for timepieces that won’t break the bank, Armitron’s offering should do nicely.

Lively Designs

With a variety of collections comes a variety of designs. Many Armitron watches are quite eye-catching, especially from the aforementioned Graffiti collection where the designs are lively and colorful. Regardless of your aesthetic preference, you’ll find something to like with Armitron’s collection.

However, that’s not saying that all of Armitron’s watches have striking designs. In fact, many of them are fairly derivative – some models remind me of G-Shock watches while some seem to be inspired by Timex timepieces. Like most watch brands, some Armitron designs are good while there are also uninspired ones.

At the end of the day, it all comes down with the buyer’s preference. But since Armitron offers a wide range of designs, it’s not hard to find a watch for every unique aesthetic requirement.

Robust Timekeeping Tools

Armitron watches are fairly reliable. In terms of accuracy, there’s not a lot to complain about here. Many of Armitron’s watches are digital and quartz, so accuracy isn’t really an issue. In terms of durability, some models ended up on my daily beater rotations. I’m not expecting these watches to last forever but for the price, the durability is surprising.

Some of the watches come with added features, especially the digital chronograph models. These added features are fairly basic but they work as intended, most of the time. It’s not going to blow anyone’s mind but for a $20+ watch, it’s silly to complain.

What We Don’t Love

Quality Can Be a Hit or Miss

As mentioned, Armitron watches are geared towards the lower-end market. So as you might expect, the quality of the watches can vary especially concerning the price. The quality of the watch in the $20+ price point is very different when compared to the ones approaching the $100 price.

Some Armitron watches can feel rather light and plasticky. Again, my expectations were quite low but some of the models almost feel like a toy watch. Also, some watches look good on photos but once I’ve pulled them out of the box, I can’t help but get disappointed.

When buying Armitron watches, make sure that you manage your expectations, especially when it’s a lower-end model.

Durability Issues

The issue with budget-friendly watches is that the manufacturer has to cut some corners to keep the price down – that’s applies to Armitron as well. What I’m saying is that don’t expect these watches to have the highest quality materials.

For instance, the finish in many of the watches is not scratch or chip-resistant, making them very vulnerable to scrapes after high impact. Some of the bands are easily broken as well after months of use, even the leather strap variants. The clasps could use a bit of work as well since they are quite loose in some models.

Best Armitron Watches

If you’ve been reading this Armitron watch review, you’re probably wondering which models are worth checking out. Here are some of the best Armitron watches that you can get:

1. Armitron Sport 40/8284 Digital Chronograph

The Armitron Sport 40/8284 Digital Chronograph is quite possibly the quintessential Armitron watch. It’s big, loud, and high-style. Although it’s very reminiscent of some Casio G-Shock watches, it stands out on its own.

This sports watch looks great in person and although it’s priced at $20+, it feels surprisingly solid. It’s a digital chronograph watch that comes with features like lap time, alarm time, dual time, military time, back light functions, two zone LCD display, and more. Plus, it’s water-resistant up to 100 meters, so it’s a good option for water sports lovers as well.

Overall, it’s a pretty good digital chronograph watch considering the very low price. It’s a good daily beater for sure.

2. Armitron 20/4935 Day/Date

The Armitron 20/4935 Day/Date is one of the more expensive offerings from the brand (but still very affordable). This watch is simple but stands out with its handsome design and striking face. The hands are luminous as well, so that’s a nice bonus.

The Armitron Men’s 20/4935 Day/Date is a casual dress watch which means that you can wear this every day but will work to a formal dinner as well. The higher price also ensures that the quality and construction are better.

Overall, it’s a great stainless steel watch if you require a less sporty offering from Armitron.

3. Armitron 204677BLSV Stainless Steel

For another solid option, the Armitron 204677BLSV Stainless Steel fits the bill perfectly. The sunburst dial is a good design element and this what made me buy it.

Although it reads Tachymeter on the watch, it doesn’t have such a feature which is understandable considering the price. It does have a day/date function and 24-hour subdials. In terms of features, the watch is quite bare-bones but I imagine some people would prefer it this way.

Ultimately, the Armitron 204677BLSV Stainless Steel is a highly-fashionable piece and keeps time accurately. It’s a good mid-range Armitron option.

Armitron Watch Review: Should You Buy Them?

We end this Armitron watch review by giving a verdict of the brand. Is it a good brand? I think so! However, since it’s a budget-friendly brand, the watches come with problems that are usually common with affordable timepieces.

The best part about Armitron is its wide variety of options and cool designs. Nothing particularly mindblowing but its offerings are solid for the most part. The value proposition is pretty good but you have to keep in mind that other brands like Timex and Casio also compete at this price point.

Overall, Armitron is a competent lower-end watch brand and its watches are worth checking out for value seekers.

April 14, 2021April 26, 2021

Tissot Watch Review: Swiss-Grade Watches for Less

When it comes to shopping for watches, two of the most important factors to consider are quality and value. Even the most hardcore watch collectors want to get the most out of their hard-earned money. At the end of the day, you want a good balance of quality and affordability. Today, we have a Tissot watch review for you that we believe demonstrates both factors.

Is Tissot a good watch brand?

Tissot is a Swiss watch brand and is actually a subsidiary brand of the Swatch Group. Personally, I’ve only been introduced to Tissot quite recently but I must say that I love my experience with the brand so far. For this Tissot watch review, we’ll talk about the brand’s history, the pros and cons, and highlight the best Tissot watches.

History of Tissot

Tissot had its humble beginnings when it was founded by father and son Charles-Felicien Tissot and Charles-Emile Tissot in 1853 – it was named Charles-Felicien Tissot & Son then. The Tissot company started as a small assembly shop in Crêt-Vaillant, Le Locle, Switzerland. The brand started as a comptoird’etablissage which means that each component of the watch was worked independently by a network of craftsmen. Later on, Tissot hired these craftsmen to work under one roof.

Some of the first watches made by Tissot are gold pocket watches which were mainly intended to export to other countries and markets. The company also put out complications or pendant watches. During only the first year, the Tissot company has managed to reach and sell their crafts in the United States. After five years, Tissot has officially reached Russia in 1858. By the early 1920s, Tissot shipped luxury timepieces to Russia and several Russian czars have taken a liking to the brand.

In 1907, Charles Tissot helmed the building of the company’s factory in Chemin de Tourelles, Le Locle. The company has one goal in mind: meet customer demands across the globe. As of this writing, Tissot’s headquarters are still located there. In the same location, Tissot made its in-house movements, turning them into a certified watch manufacturer.

By 1910, Tissot expanded by making wristwatches for women. These timepieces gained a lot of attention because they’re made of gold and platinum, some are even embellished in diamonds. Afterward, Tissot offered men’s wristwatches for sale even before they became a staple trend. Although Tissot isn’t known for groundbreaking watch designs, the company stood out because of technical innovations. For instance in 1930, Tissot produced the very first non-magnetic wristwatch in 1930.

Although Tissot did well to survive for more than a century, it was still affected by the Quartz Revolution. Therefore, eventually in 1998, Tissot joined SMH (later became known The Swatch Group).

In modern times, Tissot continues to develop new concepts for watches. The company is still going strong and has sold an estimated number of 4 million watches so far.

Tissot Watch Review: Pros and Cons

What We Love

Storied Watch Brand

If you care about the history of watchmaking, you’ll find a lot to love about Tissot. The company has been around for more than a century, and it has certainly made its mark on the art of watchmaking.

Tissot isn’t exactly at the forefront of groundbreaking innovation but I have to give them the props for always pushing the boundaries. After all, the slogan of Tissot is “Innovators by Tradition.” The brand is always coming up with innovative watch concepts. For instance, Tissot manufactured the very first non-magnetic wristwatch in the 1930s.

So one can say that Tissot’s history has always been tied to watch innovation. Tissot may not have the same impact as other popular Swiss brands such as Rolex and Omega, it’s still a name that comes to mind whenever watch innovation is in the conversation.

Solid Designs

One of the first things that attracted me to Tissot is the design of their watches. Now, I’m not saying that the designs are mindblowingly amazing but they’re definitely solid. Tissot has numerous collections that are classic and straightforward like the Tissot Everytime and the venerable Tissot Le Locle. These designs are clean, straightforward, and timeless. It helps that Tissot knows how to create high-quality watches with top-notch construction.

However, Tissot also offers several collections of sports watches that are fairly good-looking. Again, the designs won’t exactly have you picking your jaw on the floor but they’re good-looking enough for regular rotation. For instance, the Tissot T-Race Cycling Vuelta 2017 features a sporty design that many sports car enthusiasts should love. Also, the Tissot Seastar is a classic vintage diver that looks even better in person.

In-House Movements

When it comes to watches, I’m always partial to watchmakers who make in-house movements. There’s just something cool about having a watch with a beating heart that’s unique and made by hand. This is such a treat with Tissot because they also offer their watches at competitive prices.

However, just to make it clear, not all Tissot watches have in-house movements, not even the majority of their collections do. But Tissot does use high-quality ETA movements for their watches. In some cases, the movement that they use can even be found in more expensive brands like Omega and Patek Philippe.

Competitive Pricing

Although Tissot is a Swiss watch company, they don’t actually offer “luxury watches” at least not in the traditional sense. With the pricing for most Tissot watches, it’s fair to say that it’s a mid-level brand. And that’s actually a boon for Tissot because they offer plenty of high-quality watches that would give more expensive brands a run for their money.

It’s safe to say that Tissot is an “affordable luxury” brand, and that’s fine by me.

What We Don’t Love

Frustrating Warranty Repair

Although this is not from personal experience, there seem to be a few people who aren’t satisfied with Tissot’s warranty repair policies. Tissot provides a warranty repair period of twenty-four (24) months which seems to pale in comparison with other brands. But then again, Tissot is far from being a luxury brand.

Remember that the warranty card is only valid when it’s filled out and stamped by an authorized dealer.

Beware of Counterfeits

This is not exactly a knock on the quality of Tissot watches but a word of caution. Tissot watches are some of the most widely counterfeited brands in the world. Thus, if you’re looking to purchase a Tissot watch, make sure that you do so from a reputable seller/dealer.

Best Tissot Watches

1. Tissot Le Locle Powermatic 80

What’s better than starting with a watch that’s inspired by Tissot’s original factory location?

For starters, the Tissot Le Locle Powermatic 80 comes in many different variants. But if you want a classic, vintage look that delivers in reliability, the Le Locle Powermatic 80 presents a solid option. I’ve opted for the silver-tone stainless steel case with a black leather strap and it’s a watch that you can easily wear daily.

The design is fairly elegant but it’s not borderline flashy – very easy on the eyes though. The leather strap isn’t exactly the highest of quality but the dial is quite inspired. The overall feel of the watch is outstanding and it uses the ever-reliable ETA 2824-2 with 28,800 beats per hour. At first, I thought the watch might be too small on my wrist but I think the size is just right.

2. Tissot Seastar 1000 Chronograph

This won’t be a Tissot watch review without highlighting the brand’s best dive watch. The Tissot Seastar 1000 Chronograph is a great purchase if you’re in the market for a dive watch under $1000.

Like most Tissot watches, the Seastar 1000 won’t be receiving any awards for design. It’s marketed as “an elegant watch for watersport lovers” but it’s not a piece that I would call as elegant. However, I’ve been wearing this dive watch for weeks and it’s such a treat with how comfortable it is.

The star of the show is certainly the lovely blue tone of the dial and in some angles, it looks purplish which is neat. The dial is very legible even under the harshest lighting conditions – always a good thing for a dive chronograph.

Overall, the Tissot Seastar 1000 is a great sports watch with an equally great price.

3. Tissot Swissmatic Everytime

Tissot has always been a brand that packs a lot of mechanical and technological punch, and for less. The Tissot Swissmatic Everytime is a testament to that.

The Swissmatic Everytime features a very traditional case shape, it’s rather on the thin side but it doesn’t affect its wearability at all. While the dial looks fine at first look, it does look flat and not very high-quality at all. My favorite from the collection is definitely the black dial.

With that said, the strongest point of the Swissmatic Everytime is the price. There are more expensive variants from the collection but expect to pay no more than $500 for these beauties.

Tissot Watch Review: Are These Watches Any Good?

To conclude this Tissot watch review, we determine if this brand is worth your investment or not.

All things considered, Tissot is a brand that offers tremendous value. Their watches are Swiss-grade and high-quality for the most part but you’ll struggle to find a model that costs more than a grand. Tissot offers plenty of options as well, so there’s a little something for everyone.

If you’re meaning to check out this brand, we highly recommend that you do.

April 9, 2021April 21, 2021

Casio vs Seiko: Which Japanese Brand is Better?

During the 1970s, the Japanese watch manufacturers have shifted the market and dominated in every way possible. This became possible due to the phenomenon called the Quartz Revolution and the industry has never been the same.

If you’re looking for a timepiece that delivers in quality and value, it’s hard to go wrong with Japanese watch brands. When you’re looking into quality Japanese timepieces, your decision will likely come down to Casio vs Seiko. Both brands are very well-respected around the world, thanks to their innovative features, rock-solid reliability and amazing value.

So for this brand showdown, it’s Casio vs Seiko. We break down the highs and lows of both brands as well as highlight some of the best models from both brands.

Casio vs Seiko: Head-to-Head Brand Comparison

Style and Design

If you’re stuck with the choice between Casio vs Seiko, style and design are good factors for choosing. In this case, your choice depends on whether you like traditional vs. modern designs.

Seiko timepieces tend to have traditional styles and designs – the tried and true classic aesthetic. You can see this from popular Seiko models such as the Seiko SARB033 and some Seiko dive watches, especially from the Prospex series. Seiko’s classic style echoes a message that it’s richly-storied and established brand. Seiko knows that they have an established reputation and that’s reflected from their watch designs. The company even has a luxury brand, Grand Seiko, that features timelessly designed models at luxury prices.

On the other hand, Casio specializes in watches with contemporary, industrial designs. Many people think of the G-Shock watches when talking about the Casio brand, and it’s hard to blame them. The G-Shock design is one of the most prolific looks from Casio. However, the Japanese brand is more than just the G-Shock line of watches. One thing that I love about Casio watches is design variety. Their collections such as G-Shock, Edifice, and Wave Ceptor all feature models with varied designs, ranging from rugged to professional.

So, if your main criteria for choosing between Casio vs Seiko is style and design, it’s really an easy choice. If you prefer watches with traditional and elegant designs, Seiko is the obvious choice. On the flip side, if you want a watch with a more modern approach and rugged looks, I recommend checking out Casio’s line.

Construction and Durability

You are probably thinking, “this category is an easy win for Casio, right?” Well, if you’re going for pure durability alone, Casio certainly has this on the bag. However, when you’re looking at the big picture, it’s not as clear-cut as it seems.

Seiko won’t have such a legendary reputation by making unreliable watches. For example, the Seiko Prospex series features some of the best diving watches that money can buy. Many Seiko models, especially the higher-end ones, are comparable to Swiss-made watches that cost twice or more. One of the things that make Seiko watches so durable is the Hardlex crystal which has excellent impact resistance. However, I’ve found out from personal experience that the Hardlex is quite prone to scratches.

Seiko has a history of excellent watchmaking, so its watches are high-quality and durable in general.

On the other hand, we have Casio which has made its name by putting out some of the toughest watches available. Casio developer Kikuo Ibe created the G-Shock line with the vision of ‘creating a watch that never breaks’ – and many of you will agree that Ibe has successfully fulfilled his vision.

Casio is the brand of choice of professionals such as law enforcement and firefighter EMTs. On top of exceptional durability, Casio watches are also packed with innovative features such as Multiband 6 Radio Technology, GPS Hybrid Technology, Tough Solar technology, and many others. The combination of toughness and versatility makes Casio watches a true utilitarian tool.

In terms of durability, Casio is clearly the runaway winner. However, you should know that you’re not losing out on quality and toughness if you choose to go with a Seiko watch.

Features and Technology

When it comes to pure features and technology, Casio has the upper hand over Seiko. Casio is like the nerd/geek of the watchmaking industry as it continues to push the industry innovation-wise. On the other hand, Seiko watches might be light on features but the brand also offers some innovative features that appeal to collectors.

Regardless of your needs, it’s safe to say that there’s a Casio watch for you. For instance, outdoor adventurers can turn to the Casio Pro Trek series for timepieces with advanced navigation functions. The Casio ‘Pro Trek’ Outdoor Smartwatch comes to mind. This Pro Trek model can be synced with your Android smartphone and comes with a compass, altimeter, barometer, activity tracker, and more. Sure, it’s not comparable to something like the Suunto Traverse Alpha but Casio did a good job with this outdoor-friendly watch.

Also, if you’re in the market for a quartz movement watch, Casio gets my recommendation. This is especially true if you check out the Casio Edifice series with its amazing quartz watches. While Seiko also makes quartz watches, Casio is simply better in that regard.

On the other hand, Seiko watches are light on features, especially when compared to the most popular Casio watches. Also, if you’re particularly looking for a mechanical watch, you’ll have slim pickings with Seiko. However, the brand does offer a few mechanical watches whereas, Casio doesn’t make mechanical models.

If automatic watches are your thing, pardon the pun but your automatic choice is Seiko. After all, the brand is known for making the first automatic (self-winding) watch in space. While Seiko watches aren’t as robust as Casio’s offering, it offers extremely fine watches that stood the test of time.

Pricing

Honestly, pricing isn’t much of a factor when it comes to this Casio vs Seiko comparison. Since we’re comparing both brands in the broadest sense, both watches cater to a wide range of budgets. As mentioned, both brands offer tremendous value.

However, if budget isn’t an issue and you want to go for the most expensive watch that you can buy and it’s between Casio vs Seiko, the latter gets your money. After all, Seiko has the Grand Seiko line that features fine watches with luxury-tier prices.

Again, I just feel like the price tag is not the definitive factor when choosing between these two Japanese brands. Both brands will give you a lot of watch for your money.

Best Casio Watches

1. Casio G-Shock Rangeman GW-9400

One of the most popular Casio collections is the Master of G series. This line features some of the toughest and feature-rich timepieces out there. The Casio G-Shock Rangeman GW-9400 happens to be a fan favorite and it’s hard not to see why.

If you’re in the market for a tough-as-nails watch, the G-Shock Rangeman GW-9400 comes highly recommended. As you can see from its looks, the GW-9400 doesn’t pretend to be anything other than a rugged digital watch. It looks aggressive with just the right amount of bulk – it’s a watch that can take a lot of punishment.

Apart from being tough, the GW-9400 is also packed with navigation features such as a compass, thermometer, and altimeter-barometer.

2. Casio Edifice EF527D-1AV

Casio isn’t exactly known for chronograph watches but nevertheless, it’s hard to ignore the company’s attempt with the Edifice line. The Casio Edifice EF527D-1AV is a chronograph that pays homage to early pilot watches.

Right off the bat, you’ll notice that it’s a fairly large watch at 45.5mm. The wrist presence of the Edifice EF527D-1AV is certainly off the charts. Typical of the chronograph style, the dial is quite busy and one of its distinctive features is the inner rotating slide ruler. The ruler calculates information such as fuel consumption and flight time.

The Edifice EF527D-1AV is a very competent attempt by Casio at a chronograph and is worth checking out.

3. Casio Wave Ceptor WVA-M640D-1ACR

For starters, the Casio Wave Ceptor WVA-M640D-1ACR is a budget-friendly solar atomic watch. Watches with atomic timekeeping are generally pricey but the Wave Ceptor WVA-M640D-1ACR is one of the few exceptions.

As you can see, the Wave Ceptor WVA-M640D-1ACR is a hybrid of analog and digital. The unique look can be quite polarizing but I think it looks great. It’s a performance-driven timepiece but still found a way to look sophisticated.

Overall, the Wave Ceptor WVA-M640D-1ACR is a unique offering from Casio and certainly worth a look.

Best Seiko Watches

1. Seiko Prospex SRPA21K1 Automatic

The Seiko Prospex SRPA21K1 Automatic is an excellent option if you’re looking for a dive watch under $500. The Prospex line is a respectable line of dive watches and the Prospex SRPA21K1 is a shining example.

This watch can handle depths of 200 meters (660 feet) which is good for general diving. Of course, you can’t talk about this watch without mentioning the classic Pepsi color combination. The Prospex SRPA21K1 is a very polished dive watch with a sophisticated look.

2. Seiko SNE331 Solar Watch

The Seiko SNE331 Solar Watch is a personal favorite of mine. This is a military-inspired that found its way into my regular rotation.

The simple yet bold dial is a standout with its large indices and the stencil-like numerals. This is a black dial watch that should appeal to many collectors. It’s a bit hefty piece but only because it’s rugged and durable.

Ultimately, this is one of the better solar watches that Seiko has to offer.

3. Seiko Radio Sync Solar Coutura

For the atomic timekeeping category, we have the Seiko Radio Sync Solar Coutura – one of the best solar atomic watches that money can buy.

The main point of attraction of this watch is its striking blue dial. The unique dial layout and design really drive the point home. Despite the fairly busy dial, it’s very legible aside from the date window which can be too small.

As an atomic timekeeping watch, the Seiko Radio Sync Solar Coutura will automatically sync every night so you don’t need to adjust it ever.

Casio vs Seiko: Final Thoughts

Ultimately, this Casio vs Seiko is not as tricky as you might believe. Both Japanese brands offer excellent timepieces but their most popular models are hardly competing with each other. Both Casio and Seiko cater to a wide range of needs and budgets.

As long as you know what you want from a watch, you should have no trouble choosing between a Casio or Seiko watch.

March 18, 2021April 7, 2021

Oris Watches Review: Affordable Luxury Watches

One thing we admire about the Oris watches is their versatility and ability to fall within any category, whether Aviation, Dive, sports, or fashion. However, with so many options of watches to choose from today’s market, you have a lot to consider before making a decision. In today’s article we will cover the Oris Watches Review and the available options for each category.

Most available watches are by companies who are either just starting to blend into the market or already overhyped. New brands have to deal with multiple comparisons to both mid to high-end spectrum top contenders, such as Rolex or Omega.

Oris, on the other hand, is a Swiss watch company with a reputation for making mechanical watches for over 100 years. Regardless, watch enthusiasts like to place the quality of this watch on par with TAG Heuer and Longines. Experts meticulously build each model of the Oris watch, of course with several distinguishing factors.

Oris watches offer an interesting alternative by making reliable watches with all-around quality that are not as expensive as the others – this doesn’t mean it has lower quality. In fact, some Oris watches have more outstanding features than the Tag.

Pros – Oris watches

Trustworthy Brand
Top-quality Build
Versatile timepiece
Excellent movement
Accurate Watch
Reasonably priced

Cons – Oris watches

Weak resale value
Limited warranty

Benefits / Drawbacks – Oris watches

Trustworthy Brand

For a brand to survive the challenges of the market and various competitions since 1904, Oris has to be trusted. All Oris watches are Switzerland-made and this remained true since two men, Paul Cattin and Le Locle Georges Christian bought the Swiss Lohner & Co. watch factory which recently closed. They went further to renaming it “Oris” after a valley and a brook at the Swiss town of Holstein. Ten years later, this privately owned company expanded with another factory and an assembly plant to become the largest employer in Holstein. Soon, they already had up to six factories.

The secret behind the classic designs of the watch is their rich history that’s dated back to the 1960s when Oris had a market of about 1.2 million timepieces per year. At that time, the company became one of the largest watch brands around the globe. With Oris SA as the corporate name today, Oris watches remain a top competitor in the world of genuine Swiss Made watches.

Top-quality Build

Like we have mentioned earlier, the Oris watches have qualities to be compared with renowned brands, such as TAG Heuer and Longines. By making solid watches with various improved models, they have reserved a place for themselves on the market.

The total build of the watch is of top quality, including the watch’s movement that is identifiable with distinctive red rotors. Oris watches lacks nothing you would desire from a perfect timepiece. Each model, including the new ones, have a sense of aesthetic attachment to the nineties.

Versatile Timepiece

They are versatile enough to have something for everyone regardless of the category, such as Aviation, Diving, Motorsport, and Culture. The aviation collection includes the Big Crown series with each model having unique features such as GMT, altimeter, world time, meter scale, and more. The qualities are suitable for aviators, pilots, and other aeronauts.

The Motorsport collections are durable and light weighted for Motor Racing Professionals and drivers. Some include the Oris Williams, Oris Chronoris, Oris TT1, and Oris Artix GT. These watches have their specific attributes and can also be useful for daily wears.

The Oris Aquis, Oris Divers, and Oris ProDiver make up the Divers collection. They feature changeable strap material, and Super LumiNova filled hands and markers. The Divers collections are water-resistant and suitable for Scuba divers, professional swimmers, Diving instructors and other subaquatic related activities.

Under the Culture collections are the Oris Artelier and the Oris Calibre series. They comprise of the simple and classic styled watches. The collection pays tribute to several artistic and cultural influences.

Excellent movement

Oris watches do not use the regular battery-powered Quartz movement. Instead, they use a few different mechanical movements powered by springs. Oris is not known to build their movement fully. Most Oris watches use calibers from unfinished ebauche movements. This modular movement is a sort of template that allows Oris to reform and integrate their own features to suit whichever watch they choose.

Take the Big Crown ProPilot Worldtimer, for instance; it’s a GMT watch with dual time zone function that uses the Oris Caliber 690. This Oris 690 Caliber uses the base of an ETA2836-2 automatic movement from ETA, which is a subsidiary of Swat Group. So evidently, they don’t have an in house movement.

But that’s not to say Oris movement performs poorly or is inferior. Asides from a few widely celebrated brands. Most watchmakers are not equipped to create all their components entirely in-house. ETA’s movements are tremendous, and Oris improves on them.

Accurate Watch

The accuracy of all watches depends on how they’re regulated. Either the Oris watch uses an ETA based caliber or a Selitta based movement, they can be adjusted. The regulation within the parameters of accuracy makes the Oris watch consistent with some of the best and most reliable pieces in the business. All Oris watches are authentic; some do come with a COSC certificate to prove it.

Price and Some Thoughts

Compared to brands like Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin or Patek Philippe, Oris is not one of the watches you will refer to as high-end. Instead, they fall under the categories of affordable or value-added luxury. With the type of Mechanical Powered calibers that Oris watches use, you can’t consider them as lower market brands, such as Michael Kors or Invicta. You may prefer to put them somewhere in the middle.

Oris watches are modestly priced Swiss-made mechanical timepieces with utmost quality and value. You can find Oris to be one of the best men’s watches under 2000 dollars. If you consider how much they offer, you will realize how affordable and very well-priced the Oris watches are.

As they unbiasedly market their watches, even to the average layman, Oris love to use the slogan “Real watches for Real People.” This may be the reason for the modest price. Every day they achieve their mission of producing excellent valuable watches that are very affordable.

Due to the high-quality timepieces they offer, Oris can decide to charge more for their product if they want. Chances are, they would get it; only that it would shut down their ability to reach a broader audience of people who cannot afford watches at a higher price.

Economically, it’s a strategy that makes less profit off individual watches and sell more. It gives more people around the world the chance to wear and at the same time advertise the Oris brand.

Weak Resale Value

Oris watches are on par with some of the best valuable watchmakers in the Swiss-made watch industry. Other remarkable brands like TAG Heuer only provide battery-powered quartz watches and still offer them at the same price point with Oris.

Most people like to see luxury watches as some investment that is supposed to appreciate over time. That’s some people’s view, and it’s not always so. Watches require some kind of maintenance every few years, where they lose a portion of their value from their initial purchase.

Asides from Rolex, some Patek Philippe models, and a few exceptions that can hold their value, most brands have weak resale value. For Oris, it would be a mistake to expect the price to go up or even stay the same. It’s safe to say Oris watches are not suitable investments like real estate or normal securities.

The moment you step out of the store with your watch, the value starts to drop. Unless you plan to rent them out, Oris watches are not the type of assets that generates income. But the good thing is that the watch is luxury good.

Limited Warranty

Oris international sales warranty is limited to 23 months after the date of purchase. A warranty period of only 23 months can seem fair for some brands, but at the price of the Oris watches few users expect more. You can accomplish this guaranteed period only when you have adhered to the product’s manual, and you buy your watch from an authorized dealer.

You can check your warranty status from the Oris official website. However, they may require your serial number or warranty code to proceed. Oris service center offers you a chance to polish or repair your watch.

Should you get the Oris watches?

At this point, it’s important to note that Oris is one of the few Swiss watchmakers to offer only mechanical watches. The watches have a distinctive red rotor design as the company’s symbol of mechanical approach and a means of identification.

The build-up is only from the best materials, which are the reasons for Oris’s promise of watches that lasts for a long time. The company adheres to the best standards in its manufacturing and use the tightest quality control as required of a Swiss-made brand.

What attracts most people to the Oris watches is the price range. Of course, they’re not so cheap, neither are they as expensive as their peers. Oris continues to gain popularity among experts and watch collectors because other luxury brands offer their qualities at a higher price.

Bottom Line – Oris Watches Review

Compared to its high-end competitors, Oris is modest with its prices and a better investment. They offer an extensive list of models. If this is your first time with the Oris watch, then you’re in for a treat.

Oris brand is not new in the game; it’s a trusted Swiss brand that produces some of the best classic watches in the world. Each model has a bit of innovation and still stays true to Oris’s long history. They favor themselves for being creative and making exciting and timeless timepieces.

February 25, 2021March 23, 2021

Best Seiko Automatic Watches: Rounding Up Seiko’s Top Automatic Watches

When it comes to brands that helped shaped the watch industry, one brand that comes into mind is Seiko. After all, the Japanese company Seiko put out the very first quartz movement in history. Over the years, Seiko remained a powerhouse brand and will likely stay that way for the years to come.

So for today’s round-up, we highlight some of the best Seiko automatic watches that you can get from the market. This is going to be a particularly tough list especially when there are so many great Seiko timepieces out there.

Best Seiko Automatic Watches	Key Features	Our Rating
Seiko SARBO33 Automatic	Automatic Movement with 50-hour power reserve, Sapphire Crystal, Case Diameter: 38.4 mm, Water resistant to 100m (330ft), Seiko 6R15 caliber	★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Seiko 5 Automatic	37 mm stainless steel case, Hardlex mineral dial window, Precise 21-jewel automatic movement with analog display, Water resistant at 30 meters / 100 feet, Seiko Caliber 7S26 automatic movement with about 40 hours of power reserve, Luminescent hands	★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Seiko SRP777 Prospex Turtle Automatic	Automatic, Self-winding capability w/ 21,600 vibrations per hour, Water-resistant to 200M, 3 fold push closure w/secure lock with extension, Screw down crown and caseback	★ ★ ★ ★ ½
Seiko Presage SRPB41 Blue Moon	Seiko 23 Jewels Self-Winding Automatic Movement, Hackable Second Hand (Calibre 4R35B), Stainless steel case, Hardlex crystal, Push Button Deployment Clasp, 5 ATM water resistance	★ ★ ★ ★
Seiko SSA231K1 Analog Automatic	Gents leather analogue, Open-heart design, White dial and brown strap or bracelet, 50-meter water resistance, Scratch Resistant Hardlex, Stainless steel	★ ★ ★ ★
Seiko SRPC07 Prospex Automatic	One Way Rotating Elapsed Timing Bezel, Automatic-self-wind Movement, 44 mm diameter, 200m (660ft) water resistance, Hardlex crystal, Fold-Over Clasp with Single Push-Button Safety	★ ★ ★ ★

Best Seiko Automatic Watches

1. Seiko SARBO33 Automatic

Seiko watches come in a variety of types and styles. However, it’s really hard to beat the classic styling of the Seiko SARBO33 Automatic. Dubbed as the “Baby Grand Seiko”, the SARBO33 is truly a special automatic timepiece.

Best Valued Seiko Watch Around

For starters, the Seiko SARBO33 Automatic is a 38 mm watch, so many of you may be shocked at just how small it is. I have a medium-sized wrist so I didn’t mind the size. However, in just a few days, I got used to the 38 mm and the size even grew on me. With that said, it’s no wonder that many women opt for this watch.

One of the main standouts for me is the deep inky black dial. It looks elegant and even sports a minor reflective quality. The hour indices are applied and work well with the black dial – this is especially true when the indices catch direct sunlight. The date aperture is located in the 3 o’clock position and I must say that it’s framed rather nicely.

Overall, all the elements in the dial are laid out beautifully and feels perfectly balanced.

The watch is powered by the Seiko 6R15 movement which provides the watch with a great deal of value. It has a stated accuracy of +25/-15 sec a day and a power reserve of 50 hours.

The Seiko SARBO33 Automatic ticks all the right boxes and is one of the best Seiko automatic watches that you can buy.

2. Seiko 5 Automatic

The Seiko 5 Automatic line is one of the most popular collections from the Japanese company. This comes as a no surprise especially when it’s a well-made automatic watch that won’t break the bank. This model is a great gift for newcomers in the watch game.

For People Who Don’t Wear Watches

The Seiko 5 Automatic is considered to be a modern classic. One look at it and you’ll notice its simple profile and design but it’s the good kind of simple.

Initially, the monochromatic dial is what drove me to check out the Seiko 5. The white printed Arabic numbers for the hour hands and inner circle along with the minutes for the outer circle are all placed beautifully. While the dial looks fairly flat, the 5-minute markers have bumps to keep it interesting.

With that said, the dial looks crisp and very legible. It even features luminous hands to ensure that you can read time during low-light conditions.

Another thing that I like about the watch is the brushed stainless steel finish. The case almost looks like it has a matte finish which is a nice bonus. However, the strap could be better though.

The Seiko 5 Automatic doesn’t break any new ground but it’s stylish, functional, and comes at a great price.

3. Seiko SRP777 Prospex Turtle Automatic

The Seiko SRP777 Prospex Turtle Automatic is one of the best Seiko dive watches that you can buy. However, the main draw of the piece, in my opinion, is its unique design profile.

Bulky, Unique Dive Watch

At first, you will likely think “that is one bulky watch”, and you would be correct. From the bulky profile to the oversized lugs, this is one chunky timepiece and makes no apologies about it. This model is a redesign of the old dive watch, the 6309-7040.

If you can get past the bulky profile, it’s an excellent dive watch on its own.

For starters, I like the integration of the drilled lugs which add a lot of character to the Seiko SRP777. The dial is protected with Hardlex crystal and I must say that it has done a great job over the years. While it’s a dive watch through and through, the Seiko SRP777 is also well-suited to outdoor environments.

Another noteworthy upgrade over the original is the addition of the LumiBrite technology which provides excellent illumination.

Also, the SRP777’s dial has got all the elements in without looking too busy. Seiko did a great job of squeezing in the essentials without cramping up the dial too much. With that said, the dial looks clean and legible, even when underwater.

Overall, the Seiko SRP777 is a model that you should get if you’re interested in a Seiko dive watch.

4. Seiko Presage SRPB41 Blue Moon

Now, we bring you something from the classier side of Seiko. The Seiko Presage SRPB41 Blue Moon is a beautiful timepiece that oozes elegance. However, it’s a watch that won’t have you scrambling for your checkbook.

Luxury Watch Without the Luxury Price

The Seiko Presage SRPB41 Blue Moon comes in a 40 mm case which is a bit too big for a dressy watch. However, since I opted for the Blue Moon dial, the Seiko Presage looks a bit more playful and sporty even. This is an excellent watch for a wedding or business casual events. Despite the size, the watch fits nicely and is comfortable and not too heavy.

As for the dial, I have to agree that it’s indeed that central element of the watch. The blue dial just looks stunning with a great deal of polish usually seen in higher-priced timepieces. I actually enjoy wearing this watch since I’ve been getting a lot of compliments. The crystal is not sapphire but it’s hard to complain about that in a sub $500 watch.

The metal bracelet is serviceable but it could be a lot better. The bracelet is the typical OEM bracelet that you can find in many Japanese watches. Fortunately, you can easily swap out the bracelet with a strap if you choose to.

Ultimately, the Seiko Presage SRPB41 Blue Moon comes with a firm recommendation. Great-looking watch at a great price.

5. Seiko SSA231K1 Analog Automatic

The Seiko SSA231K1 Analog Automatic is a unique entry to this list of the best Seiko automatic watches due to its open heart design. I am normally not a fan of open heart watches but the Seiko SSA231K1 has more than won me over with its excellent design and functionality.

Open Heart Excellence

As expected, the main selling point of the Seiko SSA231K1 is its open heart design. As mentioned, I was never a fan of open heart watches since I think they belong to a steampunk convention. However, I am quite surprised that I liked the Seiko SSA231K1.

The white dial features the open-heart feature at 9:00. On top of the open heart window is the 24-hour subdial. I hate to say it but the open-heart design does a great job of making the watch look interesting and unique. The 24-hour subdial is a nice addition as well but it’s a bit too small for my taste.

Regardless if you like open-heart watches or not, the SSA231K1 is a fine-looking watch and even so while I am wearing it. The watch looks like a classic pocket watch right on your wrist.

6. Seiko SRPC07 Prospex Automatic

Also referred to as the “Orange Samurai”, the Seiko SRPC07 Prospex Automatic is a must for collectors who don’t shy away from bold and colorful pieces.

Dive Watch With a Helping of Color

It’s hard to talk about the Seiko SRPC07 Prospex without noticing the bright orange dial. The watch’s bold and vibrant design ensures that it will be getting plenty of looks. Furthermore, orange is also safety-oriented color which means that it’s a perfectly capable dive watch due to its marginally better legibility.

The orange dial is a design element that has to be seen in person.

Furthermore, the watch comes with chunky but wearable dimensions. There’s a bit of bulk to it but nothing too bothersome. In fact, I was fairly surprised by its manageable weight. In terms of durability, the watch also delivers and can easily handle a few nicks and bumps.

Overall, the Seiko SRPC07 Prospex looks unique but familiar as well. It’s just a great dive watch with a bold design.

Hard to Go Wrong with a Seiko

At last, you’ve come to the end of the list of the best Seiko automatic watches. Again, this was a hard list to make since Seiko offers many outstanding pieces. Hopefully, this guide has helped you choose your next Seiko timepiece.

January 17, 2021January 23, 2021

Datejust Vs Day Date: A Tale of Two Top-Shelf Rolex Classics

If you are an avid reader of the blog, you’ll know we all love our Rolexes here. The main problem with the Rolex brand is that they have so many stellar timepieces that choosing one can be a daunting task. Today, we have another Rolex head-to-head with the Rolex Datejust vs Day Date.

Many people are stuck between the Datejust and Day Date since the ownership experience are fairly similar. To compare, one is a very popular Rolex timepiece and widely considered a timeless classic while the other is a watch that’s pretty much the embodiment of prestige.

We get where you’re coming from if you say you’re stuck between these two luxury timepieces. Fortunately for you, we are here to help.

Rolex Datejust Vs Day Date: Specs Comparison

First, let’s check out the key specs of both Datejust and Day Date.

Model:	Rolex Datejust 41	Rolex Day Date 40
Reference #:	126333	228238
Model case:	Oyster, 41 mm, Oystersteel	Oyster, 40 mm
Dial color:	Champagne	White
Oyster architecture:	Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown	Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown
Material:	Yellow Rolesor	18 ct yellow gold
Bezel:	Fluted	Fluted
Winding crown:	Screw-down, Twinlock double waterproofness system	Screw-down, Twinlock double waterproofness system
Crystal:	Scratch-resistant sapphire, Cyclops lens over the date	Scratch-resistant sapphire, Cyclops lens over the date
Water Resistance:	100 meters / 330 feet	100 meters / 330 feet
Movement:	Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding	Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding
Caliber:	3235, Manufacture Rolex	3255, Manufacture Rolex
Functions:	Centre hour, minute and seconds hands. Instantaneous date with rapid setting. Stop-seconds for precise time setting	Centre hour, minute and seconds hands Instantaneous day and date in apertures, unrestricted rapid-setting. Stop-seconds for precise time setting
Oscillator:	Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring. High-performance Paraflex shock absorbers	Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring. High-performance Paraflex shock absorbers
Power reserve:	70 hours	70 hours
Bracelet:	Jubilee, five-piece links	President, semi-circular three-piece links
Clasp:	Folding Oysterclasp with Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link	Concealed folding Crownclasp

Rolex Day Date 40 Review

For this head-to-head review, we’ll be taking a look at the Rolex Day-Date 40 reference no. 228238. The Day Date 40 is also commonly referred to as the “Rolex President”. The series includes other variants like the Everose gold 228235, 18ct white gold 228239, and the smooth bezel 950 platinum 228206.

However, for this review, we’ll be focusing on the 18ct yellow gold reference 228238.

Design

The Rolex Day Date was designed to merge both the design elements of a prestige timepiece and a functional sports watch. Interestingly, the Day Date isn’t exactly a popular item for sports watch collectors but I have to say that it more than succeeds as a prestige status timepiece.

Rolex has definitely upped their dial game with the Day Date 40. The new Day Date sports an array of elaborate dials and sophisticated technology. We’ve managed to get our hands on the model with the white dial and it’s truly a thing of beauty.

The hour markers are fitted with 18 ct gold which prevents tarnishing. Instead of the traditional Roman numeral dial, the Day Date 40 features luminous block markers. I prefer Roman numeral dials but for some reason, I don’t mind the block markers here. Additionally, the hour and minutes hands are in matchstick style and are also luminous.

The laser-etching technique is on-point and the sunray finish provides the much-needed sophistication and delightful nostalgia.

As with the older Day Date models, you’ll find the day aperture at 12 o’clock and the date aperture at 3 o’clock. The date aperture features the signature Cyclops lens which I have always been a fan of. The dial is bold and very easy to read. All in all, the Day Date 40 dial is another showcase of Rolex’s extreme attention to detail.

Construction and Wearability

This is a prestige timepiece through and through, a fact that’s very well demonstrated by the Day Date 40’s case. The model we reviewed features a fluted bezel. Take note that only the gold versions come with fluted bezels. If I am not mistaken, the platinum model comes with a smooth bezel.

The watch features the iconic Oyster case with a monobloc middle case, screw-down case back, and winding crown. This provides the watch with a respectable waterproof rating of 100 meters. The dial is protected with a scratch-resistant sapphire that offers superior scratch protection.

You can’t really talk about the Day Date without mentioning the “President” bracelet.

Launched in 1956, the President bracelet is a staple design element of the Day-Date. The bracelet is made from solid gold or platinum, and it’s characterized by three semi-circular links which do a great job of making the watch very comfortable. That’s right, the Day-Date 40 looks and feels like a true luxury watch.

The bracelet is now fitted with ceramic inserts inside the links which adds durability and suppleness. An interesting detail is the concealed attachment under the bezel which adds up to a seamless, flowing design. The concealed folding Crownclasp reveals the hinged Rolex crown – a very nice touch.

Timekeeping

Perhaps the biggest update to the Day Date line is the new in-house movement: the Calibre 3255.

The 3255 Caliber is not something that I would call a pretty movement and that is perfectly fine. The movement doesn’t have knock-your-socks-off finishing effects (hidden by a screw-down caseback) but it’s built to be a high-performance timekeeping machine. The more I look into it, the more I think that it’s a triumph of industrial design.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s not a bad-looking movement at all. In fact, it sports a distinguished lean-and-mean look that I personally enjoy.

As you might have guessed, the 3255 Caliber is COSC (Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute) certified. The -2 / +2 seconds per day precision is definitely here. The addition of the Parachrom Blue balance spring adds more durability to the movement.

Finally, the end result is a very efficient self-winding movement that’s more than capable of handling external forces. With a three-day power reserve, you have a very reliable timekeeping tool in your wrist.