sports watches Archives

April 19, 2021April 27, 2021

Oceanaut Watches Review: Big, Bold, and Colorful

When it comes to watches, no two people have the same preference. Some like timepieces that are made of gold, embedded with diamonds, and elegant timeless designs. Others prefer super-tough outdoor watches that can brave the elements and toughest conditions. Some people prefer their watches to have bold designs, bright colors, and oversized faces. If you belong to the last group, this Oceanaut watches review is for you.

Oceanaut is a fairly obscure brand from California. I’ve always enjoyed discovering new manufacturers and microbrand watches, especially when they offer something interesting to the table. Oceanaut watches offer timepieces with unique designs, good build quality, and relatively affordable pricing.

If you’re looking to expand your collection without resorting to big brands, this Oceanaut watches review should be worth your time.

About Oceanaut

Looking into the history of Oceanaut watches, I must admit that I didn’t find anything substantial about the company. I’ve looked into the company’s official website and also didn’t find good information about how the Oceanaut brand came into fruition. I did find out that Oceanaut is based in Los Angeles, California. Again, nothing much to go on from here.

Also, the Contact page offers very barebones information as well. The company even uses a Gmail account for its official email – it’s not giving me a vote of confidence, not gonna lie. The phone number is also available from the Contact page. They do have social media accounts (Facebook and Instagram).

According to the Oceanaut Our Story page, the company makes watches that evoke a lifestyle of luxury and fashion. They specialize in making watches with classic designs but with great details like textured dials, bold colors, oversized faces, and many others. Oceanaut claims that they use high-quality Swiss & Japanese components and I’m not sure as to what extent is that true.

Unfortunately, there’s very little information about Oceanaut on the web. But hey, you came here because of watches, right?

Oceanaut Watches Review: Pros and Cons

Are Oceanaut watches worth your time and money investment? Although Oceanaut is a fairly unknown brand, I did my best to give it a fair shake and here are the things that I love and don’t love about Oceanaut watches.

What We Love

Good Overall Build Quality

Majority of Oceanaut watches I’ve seen come with stainless steel construction. Some models have ceramic materials but most of the models are made of stainless steel. At this price point, it’s hard to complain about the stainless steel construction. Plus, I think Oceanaut did a good job with the construction so most of the watches I’ve worn feel solid and tight.

As for the dial crystal, it seems that Oceanaut has an affinity towards mineral glass. It’s not a bad choice at all as it provides good protection and scratch resistance. However, I wish they used sapphire glass but I guess that would shoot up the price quite a bit. Water resistance is also good with Oceanaut watches, especially the Submersion line which is a dive watch collection. I was half-expecting the watches to feel “budget-friendly” and I was pleasantly surprised.

Bold Designs

Oceanaut watches are all about being bold, loud, and colorful – fans of minimalist designs can look elsewhere. Many of Oceanaut watches have oversized cases and sporting bright colors. Take for example the Oceanaut OC3324 Baltica with a full yellow bezel and dial except for the indices and hands. The Baltica is big, bold, and certainly loud.

Obviously, the big and loud design philosophy is not for everyone. However, in my opinion, Oceanaut’s design is quite well done. What I like is that Oceanaut goes all-in with its colorful designs because the colors are not just limited to the bezel or the strap.

There’s some variety in the model designs as well but it’s nothing too crazy or innovative.

Amazing Selection of Watches

You can criticize Oceanaut watches all you want but you can’t ever accuse them of not offering enough options.

Oceanaut has an impressive lineup of watches across all types. They offer dive watches in the form of the Submersion line. The Actuator collection is a great looking pilot/field watch. In addition, the Magnete collection is comprised of highly stylish semi-formal timepieces.

This is one of the best things about Oceanaut – the sheer variety of watches that they offer.

Good Price Point

While Oceanaut watches do have good designs and build, I hesitate to call them luxury timepieces. However, this means that Oceanaut watches are offered at a good price point. I’ve been looking around and not a single model is sold for more than a thousand dollars.

Conversely, except for a few entry-level watches, Oceanaut pieces aren’t exactly cheap and are priced in the hundreds. You can even find some watches that are priced below $50. Although the price point is a boon for Oceanaut, it also proves to be a drawback (more on that later).

What We Don’t Love

Derivative Designs

While I do like most of Oceanaut’s watch designs, I have to say that many of them don’t inspire innovation and originality. Maybe it’s just me but many watches by Oceanaut remind me of other watch models from other brands.

For example, the Oceanaut Aqua One collection reminds me of some Victorinox watches. Another example is the Oceanaut Actuator line which closely resembles some pilot watches from Seiko.

But don’t get me wrong, many Oceanaut watches look unique and interesting. At the top of my head, the Lexington and Sentinel are two of my top favorites. I just wish that Oceanaut were more consistent with their designs and not derivative.

Competitive Price Point

As mentioned earlier, Oceanaut watches are fairly affordable but I’m not sure if the value proposition is that good – at least when compared to other brands in a similar price range.

To clarify, Oceanaut’s prices seem to compete with Seiko watches, especially with the mid-range models. I don’t know about you but I think most people will most likely go for Seiko watches just because of its long-standing reputation. Plus, Oceanaut pieces don’t come across as very collectible for me. Sure, you can get a watch that you can wear daily and it will serve you well throughout the years. However, as far as collecting goes, the relative obscurity of the brand stops it from being a desirable option for collectors.

Best Oceanaut Watches

1. Oceanaut OC0114 Aviador

The Oceanaut OC0114 Aviador is not exactly mindblowing. In fact, it’s one of the more derivative watch designs by Oceanaut. However, the Aviador is a good example of an aviation-inspired watch done right.

The Aviador line benefits from Oceanaut’s excellent build quality and attention to detail. Despite having a busy dial, everything in the dial is legible and easy to read. Even the subdials boast good layout for the best legibility. There’s also a date window between the 4 and 5 o’clock but it’s a bit too tiny for my taste.

Additionally, the Oceanaut OC0114 Aviador feels a solid and durable watch. The pure stainless steel construction feels appropriately weighty but not too heavy that it becomes uncomfortable. It doesn’t hurt that the watch looks good on the wrist as well. Depending on your color of choice, the dial really stands out but in a good way.

Overall, the Oceanaut OC0114 Aviador is one of the best models that Oceanaut has to offer.

2. Oceanaut OC3320 Baltica

Next, we have the Oceanaut OC3320 Baltica which is a sports watch model from the L.A.-based manufacturer. I’m a bit of a sucker for black-dialed watches, so the Oceanaut OC3320 Baltica caught my attention immediately.

Consistent with Oceanaut’s design philosophy of being big and bold, the Baltica’s oversized dial is simply eye-catching. The size of the dial gives the Baltica an excellent wrist presence and great legibility. I love the thick hands of the watch but they can sometimes obscure the subdials. Also, the 3, 6, 9, and 12 numerals are stylish which gives the watch an interesting look.

Again, the stainless steel construction of the Baltica comes through and it helps the watch to feel solid and secure. It features a water-resistance rating of 330 feet which is fairly decent for this type of watch.

3. Oceanaut OC6115 Biarritz

Lastly, we have the Oceanaut OC6115 Biarritz for you, which is my favorite fashion piece from Oceanaut’s stable.

The Biarritz is notable for having crazy colorful dials and I have to say that it works great. Particularly, I am a fan of the Oceanaut OC6115 Biarritz which sports a cherry red dial with a black case and bracelet. This black-red combination gives the watch a handsome masculine look.

This is the type of watch that you can wear daily or to semi-formal events. Again, this is a fairly large watch at 44mm. If you have a small wrist, the Biarritz might be too small for you. Personally, the Oceanaut OC6115 Biarritz’s size is just right although it does have a bit of heft to it.

Also, the black stainless steel bracelet feels comfortable and solid. In terms of comfort, the Biarritz doesn’t disappoint. Finally, it’s a sports chronograph priced at below $500, so it’s hard to complain at this price point.

Oceanaut Watches Review: Are They Any Good?

As per usual, we wrap up this Oceanaut watches review with our verdict.

Are Oceanaut watches worth checking out? I have to answer with a cautious YES! There are many elements of watchmaking that Oceanaut got right. The first thing that comes to mind is the design. The bold, big, and colorful design philosophy can be hard to pull off but Oceanaut did it. I also like the fact that there are so many options to choose from.

On the other, there’s really nothing too mindblowing about this brand. Many of its designs are derivative and some elements are fairly mediocre.

Ultimately, Oceanaut watches are worth checking out if you love big and colorful timepieces.

April 17, 2021April 27, 2021

Best Swim Watch For Open Water [Our Top Picks]

Many watches claim to be waterproof but only a few are truly fit for swimming. Your favorite timepiece may survive the shower or rain but it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s a good fit for open water swimming. This is why I’ve decided to make this list of the best swim watch for open water.

Today, we rounded up the watches that you can wear for open water swimming. For this list, we chose the Garmin Forerunner 935 as our top pick due to its wide range of features, superior build quality, and value proposition. Keep reading to see the rest of our recommendations.

Best Swim Watch For Open Water	Key Features	Our Rating
Garmin Forerunner 935	Advanced running and multisport features, Built-in barometer, altimeter and electronic compass, Advanced dynamics for running, cycling and swimming, Built-in activity profiles	★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Apple Watch Series 5	GPS, Always-On Retina display, Swimproof, ECG app, Electrical and optical heart sensors, Built-in compass, Emergency SOS, Digital Crown with haptic feedback, 64-bit dual-core processor, W3 Apple wireless chip	★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Suunto Spartan Sport Wrist HR	Battery life up to 12 hours, Steel bezel, mineral Crystal Glass, 100 meter water resistance, GPS route navigation, support for over 80 sports, Optical heart rate, Sapphire glass, Triathlon and multisport mode	★ ★ ★ ★ ½
Garmin Swim 2	Wrist-based heart rate, Pool swim mode, Built-in GPS, Full-color Garmin chroma display, Auto rest feature, Advanced Swim Features, Turn-based pacing alerts, Up to 7 days battery life in smartwatch mode	★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2	Advanced sensors, Aluminum or stainless steel, Detects a high or a low heart rate, Sleep tracker, 360 x 360 Super AMOLED display, GPS, Bluetooth	★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
Polar Vantage V	Up to 40 hours of training time with GPS active, Running power from the wrist, Training Load Pro and Recovery Pro, Integrated GPS, Polar Precision Prime sensor fusion technology, Nightly Recharge and Sleep Plus Stages	★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Best Swim Watch For Open Water

1. Garmin Forerunner 935

The Garmin Forerunner 935 is one of our top picks for the best Garmin for Triathlon and because of that, it’s easy to recommend is as the best swim watch for open water.

Beast of a Multi-Sport Watch

On top of the training and performance tracking features, the Forerunner 935 also has a healthy offering of dedicated pool smarts. It’s a full-featured triathlon watch, so you can trust that it will serve you well in open waters.

The Forerunner 935 comes with built-in activity profiles both for open water and pool swimming. Through the Garmin Connect app, you can create your own workouts or download pre-made sessions to your watch. Moreover, the watch will automatically detect stroke type along with metrics like lengths, distance, pace, and stroke count. Other advanced features include time and distant alerts, countdown start, and other open-water metrics.

Perhaps the best feature of the Forerunner 935 is the Training Status function which automatically evaluates your recent workouts. There are even numerous performance indicators that will let you know if you’ve had a productive swimming session or not.

Overall, the Garmin Forerunner 935 is one of the best GPS watches I’ve used which makes it a solid option for open water swimmers.

2. Apple Watch Series 5

The world’s most famous smartwatch also happens to be an excellent gadget for open water swimming. The Apple Watch Series 5 is not just a fancy offering from the Cupertino company, it works great for open water swimming as well.

Not Just a Fancy Apple Gadget

Regardless of how you feel about Apple products, the Apple Watch Series 5 is one of the best-looking smartwatches out there. Over the years, the design of the Apple Watch has seen some updates here and there but its overall design has not changed that much – it has become an iconic design.

The Apple Watch comes with an accelerometer and gyroscope, and they’re very accurate. As a result, the watch can recognize which strokes you are doing (backstroke, freestyle, breaststroke) and provide an accurate quantification. The watch will also track other metrics such as the number of meters or yards completed, pool size (if you’re not swimming in open water), total swim time, number of strokes per lap, and many others.

For open water swimming, you have the GPS feature that will tell you position while you’re in the ocean or a lake. However, one of the best functions of Apple Watch is the ability to use third-party apps that can give you more information about your workouts when compared to stock apps.

If you’re going to buy the Apple Watch Series 5 just for swimming, it can be very expensive. Otherwise, it’s a top-notch smartwatch and fitness tracker for everything else.

3. Suunto Spartan Sport Wrist HR

The Suunto Spartan Sport Wrist HR is also one of the best smartwatches for triathletes. It’s a multi-sport GPS watch with a pretty good heart rate sensor – perfect for hardcore open water swimmers.

Excellent GPS Watch for Swimming

The Suunto Spartan Sport Wrist HR is “everything but the kitchen sink” equivalent of smartwatches. Perhaps the most noteworthy feature of the Spartan Sport Wrist HR is the optical heart rate sensor. I won’t say that the heart rate sensor is 100% accurate but it’s more than good enough considering that you don’t have to use a chest-strap add-on. Suunto did a great job of creating an optical HR sensor for swimming.

The Spartan Sport Wrist HR has a water resistance of 100 m (300 ft) which means that it’s perfect for open water swimming. One of my favorite features of the watch is the heat map. It just makes it a lot easier to find training spots. You can create routes using the Movescount app and the best thing about this is that you can filter by sport. This makes it a breeze to find the right swimming routes.

The Suunto Spartan Sport Wrist HR isn’t exactly cheap but I’d say the price is more than warranted.

4. Garmin Swim 2

Garmin is one of the biggest manufacturers of sports watches today. When it comes to full-featured sports watches, it’s hard to go wrong with Garmin. The Garmin Swim 2 is no exception. This functionality tracks your heart rate along with your steps taken to provide more accurate data.

Designed for Swimmers

Just by going by the name, you’ll know that the Garmin Swim 2 is a reliable swimming partner. Again, this is not just your standard fitness tracker that you can wear while on the water. The Swim 2 has features that will measure your swimming performance.

The Garmin Swim 2 can measure lap count, recognize all four strokes, and utilizes gamification to motivate to perform better. There’s a SWOLF Scoring feature which is basically a combination of “swimming” and “golf” that combines your stroke rate and overall speed.

One thing that I love about this watch is that it’s quickly usable out of the box. You can simply strap it on and use it right away. With that said, it’s highly recommended that you get the Garmin Connect app to get the most out of your Garmin Swim 2.

Overall, the Garmin Swim 2 is a definite upgrade to the old Swim model which doesn’t even have a GPS function.

5. Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2

Samsung has been killing it when it comes to wearable tech. This is true with their Samsung Gear (old name) and Galaxy Watch lines. The Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 is another solid entry from the South Korean tech giant and it’s a pretty good entry for this list of the best swim watch for open water.

Great All-Around Fitness Tracker

With the 5 ATM waterproof rating and the fact that it’s water-sealed, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 is an easy recommendation for swimmers. One neat functionality of the watch is that it allows you to customize the information displayed within the swim tracking screen. This includes your target, pool size, guide frequency, and which data to display.

When in the water, the Galaxy Watch Active2 will disable touch sensitivity so you’ll need to use the physical buttons to navigates. Like the Apple Watch, you can simply press a button to reactivate the touch interface after a swim. It also has an impressive battery life at 3-4 days after charging to the max, even when you use the GPS for swimming in open waters.

Overall, the Galaxy Watch Active2 isn’t as advanced as the other watches on this list but it’s robust enough to be used as a general fitness tracker.

6. Polar Vantage V

The Polar Vantage V has been touted as the “Garmin Killer.” While I can’t claim that yet, Polar did a great job with the Vantage V, especially when it comes to the swim features.

Formidable Rival to Garmin

For starters, I love the design of the Polar Vantage V. The very thin brushed metal looks great and practically disappears when viewed face on. The touchscreen feels intuitive and snappy, and you’ll have no trouble using touch as a primary input.

Like the Suunto Spartan HR, the Vantage V brings heart rate monitoring to the water. Also, the swimming metrics track information like pool size, swimming style, distance, strokes, rest time, and so on. The tracking results are quite satisfactory especially when you use it in conjunction with the Polar Flow app.

Overall, the Polar Vantage V isn’t the cheapest wearable tech out there. However, it’s very polished and can give some Garmin models a run for their money.

Ready for an Open Water Swim?

This concludes our list of the best swim watch for open water. Hopefully, you’ll find something here that will help maximize your training sessions. Stay safe out there!

April 16, 2021April 22, 2021

Best Tudor Watch: Affordable Luxury Watches You Can’t Miss

In the 1920s, Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf has created the brand Tudor with the intention to sell more affordable timepieces and house third-party movements inside Rolex cases.

As a subsidiary of Rolex, the Tudor brand has always been popular with serious credibility. But this relationship has also trapped Tudor under the shadow of the premier Swiss luxury watch company.

Nowadays, Tudor is fast becoming one of the go-to brands for sports watches. While they still have the backing of Rolex, they still have the creative freedom to create some truly interesting models that provide practicality and style.

Today, we made a round-up of the best Tudor watch that should be worth your time and money. To save you the time, we picked the Tudor Pelagos LHD as the top choice but you want more options, feel free to check out the rest of the list.

Best Tudor Watch	Key Features	Our Rating
Tudor Pelagos LHD	Titanium case with a titanium bracelet, Uni-directional rotating titanium bezel, Black dial with luminous beige hands, 70-hour power reserve, Tudor caliber MT5612 automatic movement	★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Tudor 1926 Automatic	Stainless steel case with a stainless steel bracelet, Fixed bezel, Minute markers around the outer rim, Tudor caliber 2824 automatic movement, 38 hours power reserve, Scratch resistant sapphire crystal	★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Tudor Divers Black Bay Bronze	Bronze-coloured PVD bronze case, Uni-directional rotating matt slate grey aluminium bezel, Slate grey dial with bronze-coloured snowflake-shaped hands, Tudor caliber MT5601 automatic movement, 70-hour power reserve	★ ★ ★ ★ ½
Tudor Fastrider Black Shield	Tudor Caliber 7753, Brushed Black Ceramic Case, Self Winding Automatic Movement, 46 Hour Power Reserve, Chronograph Feature, Tachymeter Feature, 46 Hour Power Reserve	★ ★ ★ ★ ½
Tudor Heritage Ranger	Self-winding automatic watch, 41mm stainless steel case, Brown leather bund strap, stainless steel deployant buckle	★ ★ ★ ★
Tudor Glamour Day & Date	Stainless steel case, Fixed stainless steel bezel, Diamond-tipped index hour markers, ETA caliber 2834-2 automatic movement, Scratch resistant sapphire crystal, Water resistant at 100 meters / 330 feet	★ ★ ★ ★

Best Tudor Watch

1. Tudor Pelagos LHD

Regular readers of WatchIdeas will know that I’m a big fan of the Rolex Submariner. Therefore, it’s not surprising when I was drawn to the Tudor Pelagos LHD which is clearly inspired by the Sub.

Does The Submariner Proud

The Tudor Pelagos LHD might be inspired by Rolex’s most popular dive watch but it’s still a unique watch on its own. The LHD stands for Left Hand Drive and one of the first things you’ll notice is that the crown is located on the left.

With that said, the Tudor Pelagos LHD is perhaps the company’s most modern, technical dive model. It comes with Tudor’s in-house caliber MT5612 movement which is always appreciated. Water resistance is at 500 meters so you can use this more than just your usual recreational diving.

As for the dial, it’s worth pointing out that the Pelagos is, in fact, a spiritual update to the Snowflake Submariners of the 20^th century – that’s one way of saying that it has a properly modern dial. The satin/matte black dial is a looker and the applied markers add a certain depth to its visual impact.

Overall, the Tudor Pelagos LHD is a bit tad overlooked but it might as well be the best Tudor watch as far as I’m concerned.

2. Tudor 1926 Automatic

Tudor features a solid collection of diving and military heritage. Since the brand’s return, Tudor has proven that they’re a master of balancing style and practicality. The Tudor 1926 Automatic is a great demonstration of Tudor’s vision.

Takes You Back to 1926

The Tudor 1926 is perhaps the entry-level model from the brand. At first, the 1926 looks like your typical dress watch but on closer inspection, you’ll see some unique elements that make this watch remarkable. Although it’s a watch that pairs wonderfully with a sharp suit, it’s also a piece that tells you, “Hey, it’s okay to get a little dirty.”

Perhaps one of the most interesting design elements of the 1926 is the waffle dial. The waffle design adds a good deal of texture to the watch and is responsible for the watch’s vintage feel. It feels like a throwback to the old 1950’s Rolex models and is often referred to as “honeycomb dials.”

Another great thing about the 1926 Tudor collection is the numerous color options. First, there are nine possible variants in each case size of 41mm, 39mm, 36mm, or 28mm case widths. That’s a total of 36 different models which is nothing short of impressive. Some models feature diamond hour markers which are also more expensive.

Overall, the Tudor 1926 is an interesting combination of affordability and elegance.

3. Tudor Heritage Black Bay

We have yet another dive watch entry from Tudor. The Tudor Heritage Black Bay is perhaps the most successful model by this company – and for good reasons.

All You Need from a Dive Watch and More

The Tudor Heritage Black Bay collection has many great looking watches on its belt. However, my absolute favorite has got to be the Black Bay Bronze model. I think it’s one of the most handsome watches from Tudor.

The watch has been given the steampunk treatment with the anti-corrosive case metal. The subtle slate grey dial is a nice contrast with all the bronze which I think, won’t be as striking with a black dial. As you can see, this watch also channels the Submariner, particularly from the 50s and 60s. In terms of looks, it’s hard to go wrong with the Black Bay.

The Tudor Heritage Black Bay has everything that you need from a dive watch. Luminous hands, unidirectional rotating bezel, and a tough case that will serve you well underwater. Much like the Pelagos, the Heritage Black Bay comes with snowflake hands. For timekeeping, the watch is powered by the in-house Calibre MT5601 automatic movement.

Wrapping up, the Tudor Heritage Black Bay feels like a lesser-known classic which is a tragedy in itself. It’s certainly a model that should be more popular.

4. Tudor Fastrider Black Shield

If you love watches that are vehicle-themed, the Tudor Fastrider Black Shield is a model that you might just fall in love with.

All-Black Excellence

For some history, the Tudor Fastrider collection began in 2011 and it’s a partnership with Italian motorcycle maker Ducati. The Fastrider is more or less the official timepiece of Ducati, although you’ll find no label in the watch pointing to the Italian motorcycle. Well, other than the fact that both company logos are shields. This is more of a quiet collaboration which is honestly how I like it.

As you can see, the Fastrider Black Shield features a dark, all-black theme which is a reference to the cool style of the Ducati XDiavel motorcycle. The matte-black ceramic case and high contrast dial make for a rather conservative and sober profile. However, the watch does offer some very wonderful angles and lines. Another good thing about the ceramic case is that it’s resistant to scratches.

Despite the black design, the Tudor Fastrider Black Shield is quite legible although the hands could use a bit more work. The Fastrider is quite a pricey purchase but it’s still an affordable model considering it’s a collaboration piece.

5. Tudor Heritage Ranger

The Tudor Heritage Ranger comes highly recommended if you simply want an honest watch that just works and built to last. The Heritage Ranger is the result if you take a sport watch and distill it down to the essentials.

Tough and Honest Timepiece

On the surface, you’ll see that the Ranger is a simple enough watch. It has a black dial, steel case, three hands. There’s no bells or whistles but somehow, it’s a very striking model with a thoughtful design. At 41mm, the Ranger is decidedly a contemporary watch but I know that many purists will beg to differ.

In addition, perhaps the most interesting thing about the Range is its overall design. Tudor has knocked it out of the park in referencing the iconic Oyster case design but still stands out on its own. While the case certainly has a story to tell, the dial is the runaway winner here.

The matte dial against the eggshell finish looks great and provides subtle texture and richness to the watch. The dial mainly focuses on being clear and legible. However, I wish the indices and markers are applied for more depth.

Overall, the Range is a very well-made watch with no pretense.

6. Tudor Glamour Day & Date

Tudor has always been known for their classic sports watches like the Heritage and Black Bay collections. However, this doesn’t mean that the company doesn’t know how to do dress watches. Enter the Tudor Glamour Day & Date.

Dressier Tudor for Formal Events

Upon seeing the Tudor Glamour Day & Date in person, one quick observation I’ve had is that it’s a unisex timepiece. The Tudor Glamour Day & Date is one of those watches that will look good on both men and women. This is hardly a surprise especially when women love wearing oversized men’s watches.

Furthermore, the black dial in contrast with the gorgeous stainless steel case and band make for a seriously good-looking dress watch. Of course, like its namesake, the Day window is found at 12 o’clock and the Date aperture is located at the 3 o’clock position. Like many Tudor collections, the Glamour Day & Date comes in numerous options which is always a good thing.

Ultimately, if you’re in the market for a luxury dress watch but still fairly affordable, the Tudor Glamour Day & Date is a solid choice.

Tudor’s Best Are Looking Good

That wraps up our list of the best Tudor watch. Overall, Tudor is a great luxury brand but offers more affordable options. Certainly, it’s a brand that brings in the value proposition.

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.

April 5, 2021April 19, 2021

Best Solar Atomic Watch [A Quick Buying Guide]

If you don’t like the inconvenience of changing your watch battery every now and then, you should opt to add a solar-powered watch to your collection. If you want to take it up a notch, why not choose a timepiece with atomic timekeeping?

The best thing about atomic watches is that you have access to accurate time at all times. Atomic watches are set to universal time and receive radio calibration signals for accurate timekeeping. This means that an atomic watch never needs to be adjusted as it’s perfectly synchronized with the US atomic clock in Colorado.

For today, we’ve made a list of the best solar atomic watch that you can get from the market. We’ve tested many solar atomic watches and these are the best of the bunch.

Best Solar Atomic Watch	Key Features	Our Rating
Casio G-Shock GW9400 Rangeman	Solar powered, Quartz movement, Protective mineral crystal dial window, Mb6 atomic timekeeping, auto LED, 5 Daily Alarms, Water resistant to 660 feet	★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Casio Pro Trek PRW2500T	Tough Solar Power, Multi-Band Atomic Timekeeping, 200M Water Resistant, Tide Graph, Full Auto EL Backlight with Afterglow, Countdown Timer, Battery level indicator, Power saving function	★ ★ ★ ★ ½
Citizen Eco-Drive Titanium Perpetual Chrono	42 mm titanium case, Antireflective sapphire dial window, Japanese quartz movement with analog display, Titanium link bracelet, Atomic Timekeeping, Perpetual calendar	★ ★ ★ ★ ½
Casio G-Shock GW2310-1 Tough Solar	Multi-Band Atomic Timekeeping, Tough Solar Power, Shock Resistant, 200M Water Resistant, Full Auto EL Backlight with Afterglow, World Time, 31 times zones, Solar rechargeable battery	★ ★ ★ ★ ½
Seiko Radio Sync Solar Coutura	Radio-controlled, World time function, Japanese-quartz Movement, 44.5mm case diameter, Water resistant to 100m (330ft), Push Button Foldover Clasp With Safety	★ ★ ★ ★
Citizen Eco-Drive JY8035-04E Navihawk	Light-powered watch, Multi-function chronographs, 48 millimeter stainless steel case, Anti-Reflective Mineral Crystal, Polyurethane band, Water resistant to 200 m (660 ft)	★ ★ ★ ★

Best Solar Atomic Watch

1. Casio G-Shock GW9400 Rangeman

For many of our regular readers, the Casio G-Shock GW9400 Rangeman is no stranger. After all, it has been featured as one of the best G-Shock models especially for heavy-duty professions like EMT workers. As you can see, it’s also a Solar Atomic watch.

A Masterpiece of an Atomic Watch

The G-Shock GW9400 Rangeman is a fan-favorite as far as Casio’s Master of G Series goes and it’s not hard to see why.

The watch comes with the famous Triple Sensor feature which includes a digital compass, altimeter, barometer, and, thermometer. Combined with the watch’s excellent toughness, you have yourself a timepiece that will help guide yourself in places you’ve never gone before.

In terms of form factor, the GW9400 Rangeman features an irregular shape, even among other G-Shock models. However, it does feel great while wearing and sits nicely on the wrist. I’ve had this watch for the longest time and it only has very minor scuffs with no noticeable scratches. With such a performance, it’s not a surprise if this piece lasts for a good decade.

As far as battery life goes, I can only recall a few times that it needed to be recharged. Even then, I only needed to leave the watch for several hours and it will be charged. Lastly, the atomic timekeeping updates every night so it’s never an issue for me.

2. Casio Pro Trek PRW2500T

A fair warning to those who don’t like Casio watches: this list will feature a lot of them. With that said, the Casio Pro Trek PRW2500T is always a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts and active people. Plus, it’s an amazing solar atomic watch.

Feature-Rich Atomic Solar Watch

People who like their watches that come with everything under the sun will appreciate the Pro Trek PRW2500T. It’s simply packed with features that it can get overwhelming for some. This Pro Trek version is the improved iteration of the plastic PRW2500. The model featured is made from stainless steel and titanium.

The Multi-Band Atomic Timekeeping will ensure that your watch is very precise. It even comes with an auto-calendar feature that’s pre-programmed until 2099. It’s safe to say that you don’t have to worry about the time and date with the Pro Trek PRW2500T.

The Pro Trek PRW2500T is geared towards outdoor use so it also has the famed Triple Sensor feature. From what we have tested, the compass, altimeter, and barometer work at a functional level. The watch display allows you to get multiple information at a glance. However, it can get a little too busy for people.

Overall, the Casio Pro Trek PRW2500T is the best solar atomic watch in the Pro Trek series.

3. Citizen Eco-Drive Titanium Perpetual Chrono

On this list of the best solar atomic watch, the Citizen Eco-Drive Titanium Perpetual Chrono might just be the best-looking. However, it’s way more than just a classy, handsome watch.

High-Specced Atomic Timekeeping

Citizen’s Eco-Drive series features some of the best solar-powered watches money can buy. Among the impressive collection of watches, the Citizen Eco-Drive Titanium Perpetual Chrono stands out by having a great set of features and incredible design.

One of the first things you’ll notice is the lightweight profile of the watch. Thanks to the titanium case and band, the Titanium Perpetual Chrono feels just right despite being a fairly large watch. Besides, the watch is eye-catching but it’s not overdone or flashy. The dial looks cluttered at first but you’ll quickly appreciate just how well-done the layout is.

For some people, the design of the AT4010-50E Titanium is easily the main selling point. However, if you care about superior battery life, the Eco-Drive technology should drive the point home. With Eco-Drive, the watch is powered by light and not necessarily solar energy. Of course, this is an atomic watch which means that it employs radio-controlled function in multiple timezones for max accuracy.

Ultimately, the Citizen Eco-Drive Titanium Perpetual Chrono is not a cheap atomic solar watch but it’s highly recommended for fans of atomic timekeeping.

4. Casio G-Shock GW2310-1 Tough Solar

If you are looking for the best solar atomic watch that won’t make a dent on your budget, the Casio G-Shock GW2310-1 Tough Solar is an easy recommendation.

Best Value Solar Atomic Timepiece

I’ve bought the G-Shock GW2310-1 Tough Solar because I needed an atomic watch for daily use. This watch piece fits the bill due to its low price and that it’s a G-Shock. With that said, the GW2310-1 is impressive right out of the box.

This sub-$100 watch looks the way as you might expect. Its analog display isn’t exactly modern or timeless but it’s more than a functional watch with enough features to offer. However, many people should find the sporty design appealing.

Of course, it’s an atomic watch and I’m happy to report that it delivers in accuracy. The GW2310-1 is radio controlled and syncs daily with Colorado’s Cesium-133 atomic clock. The auto calibration works great, even after many years of use.

In terms of toughness, the GW2310-1 gets the job done. The watch is impact and shock resistant, and even comes with a 200M water resistance rating. Also, the battery life is excellent and can last up to 10 months with a full charge.

Ultimately, the GW2310-1 is a solid atomic solar watch that comes at a good price. Don’t sleep on this one!

5. Seiko Radio Sync Solar Coutura

Seiko is known for its tough and reliable watches plus the craftsmanship is hard to deny. The Seiko Radio Sync Solar Coutura is a fine member of Seiko’s lineup and it’s one of the best solar atomic watches that you can get.

Good-Looking Yet Heavy Watch

For starters, the Seiko Radio Sync Solar Coutura is a beast of a watch – it’s quite large and a bit on the heavy side. Despite the heavy weight, the Coutura feels weighty but not overly so. Also, despite the weighty profile, the watch feels comfortable to wear which is a nice surprise.

One of the best things about this watch is the striking blue dial. For starters, it’s a very eye-catching dial especially with its unique design and layout. Reading the time is easy and the sub-dials are very legible as well. My only complaint about the dial is that the date window is too small.

Of course, this is an atomic watch so accuracy is never an issue. With Radio Sync, the watch will automatically sync every night so you don’t have to set it anymore. The only time that you’ll need to set this watch is when you travel to a different time zone.

In conclusion, the Seiko Radio Sync Solar Coutura is the best solar atomic watch you can get from the infamous Seiko brand.

6. Citizen Eco-Drive JY8035-04E Navihawk

The Citizen Eco-Drive JY8035-04E Navihawk is an atomic solar watch for someone who wants it all. As you can see from the dial, it’s a watch that doesn’t leave anything to the imagination.

A Solid Atomic Watch With a Crazy Dial

The JY8035-04E Navihawk is not for minimalist fans. It’s an unapologetic sports watch that aims to give you all the information you need. In addition, the display is analog but there are digital readouts as well. It’s not the easiest watch to use and there’s a learning curve.

The Atomic Timekeeping feature means that you don’t have to set the watch ever again. I’ve been using this watch for years and the atomic feature works like a charm.

This watch is simply oozing with quality and craftsmanship. However, the band leaves a lot to be desired. In retrospect, I just wish that it’s more durable since mine broke after only months of use.

To sum it up, the JY8035-04E Navihawk is the spy watch that you’ve always wanted. In conclusion, the watch has some flaws but it’s still a solid atomic solar watch.

Atomic Timekeeping Done Right

That wraps up our list of the best solar atomic watch. Hopefully, we have helped you find an atomic watch that best fits your needs.

March 26, 2021April 14, 2021

Suunto 9 Vs. Garmin Fenix 5 Plus: In-depth Comparison

In-depth comparison of Suunto 9 VS Fenix 5 Plus

Suunto and Garmin are the leading companies in sports and outdoors wrist watches. Today we are comparing head to head their best devices for multi-sports and outdoors activities, Suunto 9 Vs Garmin Fenix 5 Plus.

In the watch industry, Garmin still stands as a leader when it comes to GPS technology. They well developed Fenix 5 Plus as a watch perfect for athletes, sportspeople, pros alike or anyone on the move. Suunto is a trusted brand name when it comes to designing and manufacturing sports or dive watches. Their products are known to combine style and performance for unmatched quality and longevity. Suunto 9 is their evidence.

Currently, GPS watches have been seen to hold all the rage with the features, performances, and incredible values that they add to our daily life. Equipped with GPS/GLONASS sensors, these watches are perfect for tracking performances and heart rate monitoring of the wearers.

As two leading watch brands, it becomes a difficult decision to conclude on which is better. Although anyone of the Suunto 9 or Garmin Fenix 5 Plus would be a fine choice, truth is that it comes down to your use and preference.

Benefits / Drawbacks – Suunto 9 VS Fenix 5 Plus

Suunto 9 or Fenix 5 Plus are both the best watches for outdoor activity tracking. But they come with different features, and even similar ones have slight differences. We put the pair head to head to see how the two watches compare to each other.

Design

Suunto 9 and Fenix 5 plus similarly feature round rugged designs. This is perfect since they have to look as good as they perform. Sunnto 9 has a more streamlined look and fewer buttons, while Fenix 5 Plus looks slightly bigger and bolder. Garmin have the bezel above the watch face to protect the display. The bezel also holds the button function.

Suunto 9 sizes at 50mm and weighs 70g, but the Fenix 5 Plus is favored to come in 3 different sizes – 42, 47, and 51mm. With this you have a choice of size preference. They both come in a variety of case colors and straps. Also, there is an opportunity to customize your case and strap to what fits you.

Unlike the rectangular apple faces, these embrace the circular appearance. But both watches are thick which is understandable given all the electronics and battery required to power them. At the back of the devices is the charging port, as well as some sensors embedded in it.

The materials used in building the watch parts are top-notch. Ranging from the scratch-resistant display to the durable bands and stainless steel casing; everything is of stand-up quality. Needless to say, when it comes to the design of the Suunto 9 vs Garmin Fenix 5 Plus – it’s a tie.

Comfort

Even if both watches are delightful to wear, of the two, Suunto 9 seems to be more comfortable. It has a much smoother design at the back cover compared to the bump design on the Fenix 5 Plus. The lugs on the Suunto 9 are more curved which provides a better grip on the wrist. It also depends on your wrist – Suunto feels better on smaller wrists, while Fenix 5 Plus suits larger ones. As with the sizes, the buttons on Suunto 9 are smaller than the ones on the Fenix 5 Plus, which keeps them from digging into your wrists or snagging on your sleeves.

Still on comfort, if you want a simple-to-use gadget, Suunto remains your choice. It uses a touchscreen where you can browse through different menus and options. Fenix does not use touchscreen and requires a bit of time to learning how to navigate through the menus. But it gives you more choices with customizing options.

Battery life

The flagship feature on the Suunto 9 is their state-of-art battery saving technology. Suunto created an intelligent battery mode to enable the watch monitor not only your exercises but also your battery life. Even while you are working out, this technology allows the Sunnto 9 to predict and report the amount of battery life you have left to carry out your activities. The watch also gives reminders so you can charge before or mid-workouts and avoid running out of juice.

Suunto 9 uses a unique function – Fusedtrack to achieve improved tracking by combining GPS and motion sensors. At the same time, save on battery. Garmin Fenix 5 Plus does not monitor power levels or give reminders like Suunto 9, but it has different battery profiles. Also, it introduces a Power Save Timeout Setting for when you need a break in between the activities.

Battery longevity is another feature where the Sunnto 9 proves superiority over the Fenix 5 Plus. They come with three modes to choose from – Ultra, Endurance, and Performance. Comparing the battery life of 120 hours of tracking in Ultra mode on the Suunto 9 vs Garmin Fenix 5 Plus delivering only 70 hours of Ultratrac mode. Suunto 9 is unmatched.

Sensors and Connectivity

Fenix 5 Plus gets the better of Sunnto 9 in the sensors and connectivity sector. Both watches use standard options of sensors and connectivity to obtain and report heart rate measurements of the wearer. You can connect them to your pods and other peripherals via Bluetooth, but Garmin offers more with an edge. Fenix uses ANT+ devices, supports Glonass, Galileo satellite tracking, WiFi and Suunto 9 does not without an adapter.

Most people buy fitness watches for the sake of tracking exercises and performance measurements. Features such as the compass, gyroscope, accelerometer, barometer, and thermometer sit well with Mountain runners and alpinists.

Another feature to consider on the Fenix is the pulse oximeter to measure blood oxygen saturation, and acclimation to high altitudes. But a little requirement is that you have to be still for the sensor to take the reading. This can be quite difficult during a race or a strenuous activity.

Smartwatch Features

In the smartwatch category, Fenix 5 Plus beats Suunto again. Through the Bluetooth of both devices, you can connect it to your phone and receive incoming alerts on the watch. With Suunto 9, you can see the incoming signals, but you cannot have full control or interact with them from the watch. Dismissing the notification from the watch only reflects on it without leaving the phone.

This is not common with Fenix 5 Plus, here once you delete the alert or message from the watch, it removes from the phone. You can accept or decline calls from your gadget without breaking a stride.

Also, Fenix 5 Plus comes with tons of options, built-in music player, app store and credit card payments. The music player shows its benefits when you don’t want to take your phone along for a workout session. You can store up to 1,000 songs on the Fenix 5 Plus or just stream from your smartphone. Obviously, playing music will also have a toll on battery life.

Navigation

Both the Suunto 9 and Fenix 5 Plus have built-in navigation and are two of the best triathlon watch models. They both offer the necessities like showing you’ve been or where you need to go on a route. The difference is the features and their performance. Suunto 9 allows you to save up to 250 points of interest like your home address, your parking spot, or certain running trails you prefer, but it’s a little slower at finding locations.

But Suunto 9 cannot stand the color topo maps and navigation features of the Fenix 5 Plus. Some of them include the trendline popularity routing to locate the most popular local trails, and ClimbPro for a better glance of the hill for a run. While the watch has all this, it may not be as easy to use as the big screen on your smartphone, but it’s there when you need it.

Software

The usability of the Garmin Connect is way better than the workout analysis software of Suunto. It has more advanced features that are displayed clearly. They both have a beautifully done interface showing tons of information on steps, sleep, calories burned, workout duration, and distance. If you want, you can comment, share, or add photos and record your detailed pace, average pace, max heart rate, average heart rate, heart rate zones. Fenix 5 plus adds performance conditions, training effects, and temperature change.

Suunto moving to the mobile app and web-based Sports Tracker app can encourage improvement on their side. The Heatmaps app shows popular trials from other people’s runs, which is beneficial when you want to try out new routes. But they lack third-party support, which is a bit of a deal-breaker. However, Suunto still connects with MoveCount service to give result of your performances, but it overlooks other health metrics like sleep, steps, and more.

Price and Value

Averagely, Suunto 9 undercuts Fenix 5 Plus with their price. The cost is understandable since Garmin watches have more features than the Suunto. But with prices and values of items, it comes down to a personal choice. Many people can consider the Suunto 9 to have enough features to track and analyze their performance. Others may want a bit more and won’t mind paying extra for it. But if you are on a budget get the Suunto 9.

Bottom Line

Suunto 9 and Fenix 5 Plus are outstanding and two of the best GPS smartwatches for hikers. Both come with the ability to track and provide performance metrics of the wearer. They both share some core features and excel differently in most sectors.

Both watches have great designs, but for anyone desiring a beautiful, comfortable watch with a long-lasting battery that is less expensive choose the Suunto 9. If your priorities are detailed navigations, smart features like music players, and built-in payment system, then go for Garmin Fenix 5 Plus. Nevertheless, no matter the choice you make any of these watches will undoubtedly make you happy.

March 26, 2021April 13, 2021

Momentum Watches Review: Solid Timepieces That Just Work

For many months now, I’ve been dipping my toes into microbrand watches. Some smaller brands, in my opinion, have missed the mark while some have absolutely nailed their vision. Today, we’re going to talk about a microbrand that has hit its mark.

Today, we’re going to talk about Momentum Watches, a Canadian-based company that has made a wide range of timepieces – from dive watches to dress watches.

For this Momentum watches review, we’ll talk about the brief history of the brand, break down the things that we love and don’t love, and review some of the best pieces this brand has to offer.

About Momentum Watches

Momentum watches have been around since 1980. As mentioned earlier, Momentum watches is based in Vancouver, Canada. Actually, the company that works on the watches itself is called St. Moritz Watch Corp. However, the company designs, assembles, and services the watches under the Momentum.

The company’s main philosophy is to design and manufacture watches with casual and active but straightforward designs. The company claims that its watches feature excellent waterproof performance at a reasonable price. Most, if not all, of their watches are catered towards people with an active lifestyle.

Many of Momentum’s watches have a familiar and classic design – another thing that’s in-line with their design philosophy. This watch company isn’t looking to buck the trend but it’s a slave to trends either. Momentum focuses on making watches that have quality, functionality, and style.

Momentum Watches Review: Pros and Cons

Is it worth adding a Momentum timepiece to your collection? Here are the things that I love and appreciate about Momentum watches and some aspects that I don’t care about.

What We Love

1. No-Nonsense Design Philosophy

Sometimes, you just have to step back and appreciate what a watch company is trying to do. Momentum is not trying to revolutionize the watch industry with advanced timekeeping mechanisms and space-age construction, their main design philosophy is to make watches for the everyday people.

That’s something that I can get behind.

Momentum watches are something that you can wear and just go about your day. Even their best dive watches and high-end field timepieces have relatively traditional designs but reliable ruggedness. The features on the watches are about as basic as you can get but that’s perfectly fine.

If you are looking for a brand with a no-nonsense approach to their watches, it’s worth looking into what Momentum has to offer.

2. Rugged, Durable Timepieces

In light of Momentum’s philosophy of watches that just works, their timepieces are ultra-rugged, durable, and require little to no maintenance.

Despite not being premium, luxury pieces, many Momentum’s products are made from high-quality components like 316L steel, sapphire crystals, AR coating, and other durable materials. These are watches that can take quite a beating which is why it’s used by many professionals.

As of now, Momentum watches can be found on the wrist of law enforcement, firefighters, coast guards, and military personnel.

3. Looking Good

Momentum watches aren’t going to win any awards when it comes to fresh or innovative designs. However, that’s not to say that the watches aren’t good looking.

In fact, Momentum offers plenty of great-looking watches.

The designs of Momentum watches can be quite derivative but I have no problem wearing them on my wrist. For instance, the Momentum 1M-SP00B6B Atlas Titanium is a nice-looking field watch with a bold and legible dial. The Momentum Fieldwalker Adventure Watch is another watch that features a rock-solid design and is frankly very fashionable.

For certain, you won’t have a problem wearing Momentum watches daily.

4. Reasonable Price Tag

Perhaps the main selling point of Momentum watches is their price tags. These watches won’t cost an arm and leg but you still get a quality timekeeping tool.

The price range for Momentum watches ranges from $99-$300 which is great considering their overall quality. Because of this, Momentum is a good brand for up and coming watch collectors or if you’re in the market for a good gift watch.

There’s simply a lot of watch here for the money.

What We Don’t Love

1. Inconsistencies with Quality

While Momentum units have respectable quality, it’s worth noting that it’s still a microbrand. With that said, I found some quality issues with some Momentum watches I’ve checked.

This is especially true with entry-level models.

This is quite understandable with lower-end models because the company has to cut some corners here and there. Perhaps the most obvious solution to keep the cost down is with the movement. While the Miyota movement gets the job done, I just feel that it could be better while still keeping the cost down. There are also strap quality issues with some of the models.

In general, Momentum watches are well-built, there were just a couple of quality issues that are hard to ignore.

2. Derivative Designs

As mentioned earlier, Momentum’s timepieces are good-looking on their own. However, I must say that most of their designs are rather uninspired.

Many of their design elements look to be lifted from other brands like Seiko and Citizen. Now, there’s nothing wrong with this in general but if you’re looking for an inspired timekeeping tool, Momentum might not be the brand for you.

Don’t expect these watches to be the pinnacle of timekeeping design.

Best Momentum Watches

Of course, we can’t have a Momentum watches review without highlighting some of the best units the brand has to offer. Here are watches that best represent Momentum in my opinion.

1. Momentum Steelix Field Watch

The Momentum Steelix Field Watch is perhaps one of the most popular watches by Momentum – for good reason.

Rock-Solid Design

The Momentum Steelix Field Watch has caught my eye because it features a design that’s similar to a vintage Seiko. When I got the watch, it looks and feels like a well-constructed unit.

I also tend to gravitate towards black dialed watches so the Steelix is the first model I’ve checked for writing this Momentum watches review. With that said, the dial looks attractive with the charcoal color, bold numerals, and sword-style hands. Legibility is also excellent for this watch which is a must if you’re planning to wear it on the field.

The Steelix does feel a little bit heavy but it’s not that big of a deal once you get used to it. After several adjustments, the watch sits comfortably on my wrist. The nylon band could be better but it’s durable enough for people with an active lifestyle.

The Steelix Field Watch is one of the more impressive models by Momentum. Plus, it comes with a great price tag and is a great value for money.

2. Momentum M50 Mark II

The Momentum M50 Mark II is yet another popular piece by the brand. The M50 Mark II is touted by the company as their toughest watch, bar none. It’s a dive that’s good enough for deep-sea exploration, so take that as you will.

From Deep-Sea Diving to Beater

The Momentum M50 Mark II is a great option for a dive watch that won’t break the bank. With a water-resistance rating of 500M / 1650FT, this is a diver that you can reliably wear underwater. It’s no wonder that it has become a prime choice for law enforcement, special forces, firefighters, and EMT professionals.

One of the first things that you’ll notice about the M50 Mark II is its airtight construction. It just feels solid and appropriately rugged. Plus, the scratch-proof sapphire crystal does a great job of protecting the dial. Even if you’re not looking for a dive watch that will serve you underwater, this one makes an excellent beater watch.

For timekeeping and power, the M50 Mark II houses the Japanese Quartz Movement and 10-year battery life for precise timekeeping and longevity. The dial is also fully lumed which comes in handy for low-light conditions like under the ocean.

Overall, the M50 Mark II is very impressive as far as affordable dive watches go.

3. Momentum Atlas Titanium

Lastly, the Momentum Atlas Titanium is another successful creation by this Canadian-based watchmaker. It’s another field watch with a restrained look and a very nice feel to it.

Super Luminous Field Watch

First, the thing that I love the most about the Momentum Atlas Titanium is its size. The 38mm case is a good size for a field watch such as this. The Atlas Titanium sits nicely on the wrist and it doesn’t hurt that it has a striking yet restrained look.

The face just screams “field watch” style and reminds me of some Hamilton watches. The dial is bold, simple, and legible – the oversized numbers made sure of that. The superluminous hands and numbers look quite nice during low-light conditions. However, the white dial version can be particularly bright.

Of course, you can’t talk about the watch without mentioning the Titanium case. The case is gray, matte-finished titanium. While it looks nice on its own, I would have preferred a brushed finish. As is, the case has like a sort of “plasticky” feel to it. However, it’s hard to complain about titanium cases especially at this price point.

Overall, the Momentum Atlas Titanium is a simple, durable, easy to wear and use field watch. It’s another Momentum watch that offers a great value proposition.

Momentum Watches Review: Are They Any Good?

Finally, we conclude this Momentum watches review with a verdict.

The watches by Momentum comes highly recommended. This particular microbrand doesn’t break any ground but it doesn’t need to. There are some issues with quality but they’re not enough to make me turn away. There’s just so much watch here for your money.

Momentum watches are stylish, functional, and offers great value. Check them out if you’re in the market for a good entry-level to mid-range watch.

March 24, 2021April 13, 2021

Garmin Tactix Charlie vs Fenix 5x Plus: Which Multisport GPS Watch is Right for You?

Garmin tactix charlie vs fenix 5x plus review

If you are looking for a multisport GPS watch, it’s hard to go wrong with Garmin. Some of the best GPS watches and fitness tools I’ve seen came from Garmin.

Serious fitness enthusiasts and outdoorsmen will require a premium GPS timepiece for training and while out on the field respectively. For today, we’ll take a look at two recent premium GPS watches from Garmin.

For this head-to-head review, we’ll compare the Garmin Tactix Charlie vs Fenix 5x Plus. Which premium multisport GPS watch is right for you? Let’s find out.

Garmin Tactix Charlie vs Fenix 5x Plus: Specs Comparison

Model:	Garmin Tactix Charlie	Garmin Fenix 5x Plus
Lens Material:	Domed Sapphire Crystal	Domed Chemically Strengthened Glass or Sapphire Crystal
Bezel Material:	Diamond-like Carbon (DLC) Coated Titanium	Stainless Steel or Titanium
Case Material:	Fiber-Reinforced Polymer With Titanium Rear Cover	Fiber-Reinforced Polymer with Metal Rear Cover
Strap Material:	Silicone	Silicone, Leather or Titanium
Physical Size:	51 x 51 x 17.5 mm	47 x 47 x 15.8 mm Fits wrists with the following circumference: Silicone band: 163-249 mm Leather band: 166-229 mm Metal band: 166-242 mm
Display Size:	1.2” (30.4 mm) diameter	1.2” (30.4 mm) diameter
Display Resolution:	240 x 240 pixels	240 x 240 pixels
Display Type:	Sunlight-Visible, Transflective Memory-in-Pixel (MIP)	Sunlight-Visible, Transflective MEMORY-In-Pixel (MIP)
Weight:	90 g	86 g Titanium version: 76 g
Battery Life:	Smartwatch mode: Up to 12 days GPS/HR mode: Up to 20 hours UltraTrac™ mode: Up to 35 hours	Smartwatch: Up to 12 days GPS: Up to 18 hours GPS and Music: Up to 8 hours UltraTrac™ mode: Up to 42 hours
Water Rating:	10 ATM	10 ATM
Memory:	16 GB	16 GB
Connectivity:	Bluetooth Smart, ANT+, Wi-Fi	Bluetooth Smart, ANT+, Wi-Fi
Smartphone Compatibility:	Android, iPhone	Android, iPhone

Garmin Tactix Charlie Review

Back in 2018, the Garmin Tactix Charlie was released – a fitness watch that has more features than you will ever need. The Tactix Bravo is a beloved fitness watch and many were looking forward to the Tactix Charlie. Based on my experience, the Tactix Charlie is a worthy update to the Bravo.

Design and Construction

This third generation Tactix watch doesn’t look that much different from the Bravo. The rugged construction is still the primary design selling point of the Tactix Charlie. The Tactix Charlie truly looks like a proper tactical watch that will not look out of place on a SWAT team’s wrists.

Fortunately, the Tactix Charlie doesn’t only look the part, it’s built to be the toughest watch in Garmin’s arsenal.

The main draw of the Charlie is the Diamond-like Carbon (DLC) coated titanium material. With the DLC material, the Charlie is more resistant and durable than the Fenix 5X. While the DLC delivers in terms of toughness and robustness, it’s surprisingly a lightweight material.

The Charlie also features stainless-steel buttons, black titanium rear cover, and domed sapphire lens. These top-of-the-line materials help the Tactix Charlie a true outdoors GPS watch. This is the type of watch that you can wear regardless of outside conditions. Well, after all, it’s a GPS watch that’s designed for tactical purposes.

The 1.2-inch display does a great job of making things readable, even under the bright sunlight. This is a fairly large watch with a large display. For a watch that offers a ton of functionality, I won’t have it any other way.

Comfort and Wearability

When it comes to comfort, the Tactix Charlie doesn’t disappoint.

The watch comes with an all-weather black silicone band and is QuickFit™ compatible. The band feels comfortable even when things get a little moist. However, I was disappointed that you can’t swap the band with a NATO strap out of the box. It would be neat if it did come with another type of strap.

Weighing at 90 grams, the Charlie does have a bit of weight to it which is not surprising at all. This is a feature-heavy GPS watch with tons of features, so be aware that it has some bulk and weight. However, Garmin did a great job of keeping things lightweight despite the tactical nature of the Charlie.

As for the battery life, the Charlie offers up to 12 days in Smartwatch mode, 20 hours in GPS/HR mode, and 35 hours in UltraTac mode. This makes the Tactix Charlie equal to Fenix 5x in battery life but slightly less than the Bravo. The addition of the optical Heart Rate Monitor is the likely culprit here.

Just to be clear, the Charlie is not a touchscreen watch. While I do like touchscreen watches, they won’t make sense for an all-weather unit like the Garmin Tactix Charlie. With a 5-button navigation, operating the watch is easy. There’s a bit of a learning curve but if you have used the Bravo before, you’ll know that they are very similar in operation.

Features and Software

This is the meat of the Garmin Tactix Charlie. This is where the majority of your big bucks go.

For navigation, you can use the built-in GPS/GLONASS and the TOPO maps or the compass. Garmin is a world-leading brand in GPS devices, so you can expect the same level of quality as the Charlie. It’s also a proper ABC watch with altimeter, barometer and a 3-axis compass.

The full-color TOPO map is easy to follow and is preloaded into the watch. You can easily map your route and receive at a glance information while you’re training or on the field. The navigation aspect of the Charlie certainly lives up to Garmin’s standard.

As an activity tracker, Charlie offers plenty of options as well. As expected, the Charlie is loaded with advanced performance monitoring capabilities to help maximize your training. The new anaerobic training effect metric is pretty neat as it gets you an in-depth insight into your training and helps pinpoint the areas that need improvement.

Of course, you can’t talk about the features of Charlie without mentioning the Wrist-Based HR. The watch comes with the Elevate wrist heart rate technology. However, the heart rate monitor is perhaps one of the lowest points of the Tactix Charlier. After multiple tests, I find the HR monitor to be quite erratic and sometimes, a bit laggy. It simply can’t compare to HR monitors with chest straps.

Garmin Fenix 5x Plus Review

The Fenix GPS multisport watches are some of the best fitness smartwatches on the market. The Fenix 5x is one of my favorite GPS watches and the Garmin Fenix 5x Plus looks to be an even better iteration.

Design and Construction

The Garmin Fenix watches are known for their big and bulky profile – the Fenix 5x Plus is no exception. Measuring at a whopping 51mm and weighing 86 grams, the Fenix 5x Plus is about 50% larger and twice as heavy as the Apple Watch Series 3.

That’s one way of saying that there’s no discreet way to wear the Fenix 5x Plus. Sure enough, you’ll get plenty of comments about how massive your watch is.

Despite its large profile, the watch still looks stylish. The black stainless steel bezel adds a sleek aesthetic to the watch. It looks good enough for daily wear. The black silicone band complements the rest of the watch and it’s easily interchangeable as well.

One of the highlights is the color sapphire display which does a great job of warding off scratches. Like the Tactix Charlie, the display is easily readable in sunlight. I’ve been wearing the watch during workouts and the display has yet to who signs of scratches.

Comfort and Wearability

The Fenix 5x Plus is about as comfortable as you can expect from a bulky watch. However, the Fenix 5x Plus is lighter than the Tactix Charlie. At 86 grams, the watch is not exactly light but Garmin deserves some props for not getting carried away with the weight.

The included silicone band is surprisingly comfortable, even after long periods of use. While training the band will accumulate moisture but I’m happy to report that comfort is not affected.

The watch does come with a sleep tracking feature but I’m not compelled to use it. While the watch is quite comfortable for a heavy-duty GPS watch, it’s not comfortable enough to sleep with it.

For the battery life, the watch will last you about 7 to 10 days with regular use. Due to the large number of features and functions (like playing music), I got about a week of heavy usage with this watch. If you are using both GPS and music, you will probably need to charge the watch by the end of the day. In this Garmin Tactix Charlie vs Fenix 5x Plus comparison, the former wins in terms of battery life.

Features and Software

If you have used a Garmin multisport watch before, it will be easy for you to pick up the Fenix 5X Plus. The 5-button interface is still here and requires a bit of learning curve for new buyers.

As expected, the GPS on this watch is solid. As long as you’re in a reasonably open area, the GPS lock-on is fast and easy, thanks to the GPS, Glonass, and Galileo satellites. The watch is also loaded to the brim when it comes to metrics. In fact, the watch is packed with so many features that I find myself learning a new metric or dynamic with continued use.

On top of the usual activity tracking and navigation features, the Fenix 5X Plus also comes with GarminPay which allows you to complete purchases just by using your watch. Another highlight is the ability to store offline Spotify so you can listen to music on the go.

If contactless payment and offline music playback are high up on your list, the Garmin Fenix 5X Plus is an easy recommendation.

Garmin Tactix Charlie vs Fenix 5x Plus: The Verdict

We conclude this Garmin Tactix Charlie vs Fenix 5x Plus head-to-head with our verdict.

The Garmin Tactix Charlie and Fenix 5x Plus are very similar watches, even down to the price range. For the base models, the price is similar between the two watches. However, the Fenix 5x Plus comes with a Titanium version which is a lot more expensive.

So which high-end GPS watch is right for you?

Well, if you are looking for a watch with tactical applications, the Garmin Tactix Charlie might be more right up your alley. It’s one of the best military watches available.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more advanced watch in terms of features, the Fenix 5x Plus has the upper hand. The ability to play music offline and contactless payment are winning features in my book.

Regardless of your choice, both watches are durable, versatile, and offer everything but the kitchen sink.

March 20, 2021April 9, 2021

Deep Blue Watches Review [In-Depth Brand Review]

As you may know, microbrands are making a big splash in the watch industry. Microbrands are usually small watch companies that are fairly new in the business. However, our featured brand review for today is not exactly a new-ish company but still qualifies as a microbrand.

Today, we’re going to do a brand review of Deep Blue.

Deep Blue is a brand that’s usually referred to as the “indie diver.” This is because this microbrand is solely devoted to selling diver watches – the only one of its kind in the industry. They have been around since 2007, so they’re not exactly a new company.

For this Deep Blue watches review, we take a plunge and find out if this microbrand is a hit or miss.

History of Deep Blue Watches

Founded in 2007, Deep Blue Watches is an American company that’s based in New York. As mentioned, Deep Blue not only specializes in dive watches but it’s the only type of watch that they manufacture.

In the past, true dive watches have strict applications – either for military or deep sea explorations. These dive watches are referred to as “tool watches.” However, these dive watches aren’t exactly the best-looking tools out there.

Although there were so-called dive watches that graced the market, many of them can’t be used by members of the armed forces or professional divers. Deep Blue Watches has presented a solution by pioneering a collection of true diver watches – looks stylish on land but can go deep in the sea.

The company motto is “Precision Diver” which basically refers to robust and dependable timepieces that can be used by professional divers and military personnel. Deep Blue watches are designed with value and dependability in mind. They have dive models that can travel to depths of up to 3000 meters, without sacrificing accuracy and durability.

To some extent, Deep Blue Watches has helped revitalized the dive watch industry. The brand may not have the same prestige and legacy as other dive brands, it’s still a well-respected brand among collectors.

Deep Blue Watches Review: Pros and Cons

Should you go to the deep end by buying Deep Blue watches? We highlight the things that we love and we don’t love about this dive watch microbrand.

What We Love

High-Performance Timepieces

Deep Blue is exclusively manufacturing dive watches and they know exactly how to put out a well-designed piece. The best thing about Deep Blue dive watches is that they don’t just look the part but with the performance as well.

The best dive watch is durable and of course, can handle the great depths of the ocean. Due to their solid construction and design, some of the best Deep Blue divers can handle depths of 3,000 meters. That is a mighty impressive performance for a dive watch.

Now, I am not a professional diver myself and won’t be coming near the ocean anytime soon. However, I have been looking around and it seems that professional divers have taken a liking to Deep Blue watches. It’s feedback like this that will let you know that Deep Blue is the real deal as far as dive watches go.

Based on my experience, Deep Blue watches are yet to disappoint when it comes to durability and dependability.

Thoughtful Design Decisions

While Deep Blue didn’t exactly set the world of dive watches on fire, I do appreciate some of the design decisions that this company has made.

For instance, some of the Deep Blue models have ceramic or sapphire bezels that are comparable with some high-end luxury watches. The thing is, Deep Blue divers aren’t exactly high-end, so it’s certainly nice to see high-end features from a mid-range brand.

Another thing I love about their dive watches is the adjustable wetsuit extensions on bracelets. This goes to show that Deep Blue is truly catering to professional divers. Many watchmakers can get away with simply jacking up a timepiece’s water resistance and call it a dive watch.

These thoughtful design decisions by Deep Blue deserves a lot of respect.

Good Value

If you are looking for a robust and dependable tool watch, it’s hard to go wrong with what Deep Blue has to offer. One of Deep Blue’s core values is to provide top-notch value to customers who are willing to give them a chance.

This means providing timepieces that are accurate, durable, and have good designs. However, they are also adamant in keeping the costs of their watches on the affordable side. True enough, even the highest end model will remain below $1,000, except for the Master 2000 series.

For a dive watch, this is simply unheard of, especially considering the quality of Deep Blue watches.

Excellent Customer Support

The folks at Deep Blue stands by their products 110%. This really shows once you get in touch with their customer support.

Just for this Deep Blue watches review, I’ve contacted their support to ask some questions. I was pleasantly surprised at how responsive and helpful the support team is. I was expecting some canned response from the representative but instead, I was treated to some great solutions to my issues.

They gave me the impression that they will always tend to my needs. For lesser-known brands like Deep Blue, excellent customer service can go a long way in bolstering their reputation.

What We Don’t Love

Derivative Aesthetic

If you are in the market for a one-of-a-kind dive watch with a unique design, you won’t find it in Deep Blue.

While most Deep Blue watches feature a solid design, it’s clear that the company took some inspirations from other popular dive watches such as the Citizen’s Blue Promaster or Seiko Prospex SRP775. Deep Blue dive watches aren’t exactly a pinnacle of originality.

However, Deep Blue does offer watches that look unique such as the Deep Blue Abyss. Also, for some reason, some models can be quite difficult to read at a glance.

Just Dive Watches?

This is more of a nitpick than anything.

Deep Blue knows what they are doing and can put out quality timepieces. Thus, I was hoping that they would branch out to other types of watches. If you don’t like dive watches, Deep Blue has nothing for you.

However, this company has plenty of good-looking watches that you can avail of. You don’t have to be a professional diver or military to appreciate their collection. I know for a fact that I’ll wear my Deep Blue watches casually, and that’s fine.

Just a wishful thinking on my part.

Best Deep Blue Watches

1. Deep Blue Master 1000 Automatic Diver

You can’t have a good Deep Blue watches review without mentioning one of its most popular models, the Deep Blue Master 1000 Automatic Diver.

Solid Diver with Great Value

The Deep Blue Master 1000 Automatic Diver caught my eye because it has fairly decent specs and it’s available for less than $300 (depending on the color options).

This being a dive watch, can go to 300 meters which is already a lot if you’re planning to use it casually. However, it’s just good to know that this watch can go deep.

One of the first things you’ll notice is that the Master 1,000 is a massive watch with a 44mm case and 15mm in height. It features a helium release valve at 10 o’clock and a unidirectional bezel. You just know right off the bat that this diver is not messing around.

The watch is powered by a Seiko NH 35 automatic movement which is quite pedestrian as far as automatic watches go. There’s also a date window that is not often seen with dive models. The bezel is ceramic and the lume offers incredible visibility in low-light situations.

Overall, the Deep Blue Master 1000 Automatic Diver can go deep without digging deep within your pockets.

2. Deep Blue Diver 1000 Automatic

The Deep Blue Diver 1000 Automatic is also another great recommendation for dive watches under $1,000. This model can go even deeper than the Master 1000 but not by much.

A Sporty, Stylish Diver

One thing that you’ll appreciate about this diver is that it’s available in many different colorways and bracelet types. I have the Diver 1000 Black/Red Bezel and it’s a great looking watch that I can wear daily and dressier events. Some of the unique ones are the Abalone Shell and Orange Sunray.

Again, this is a fairly large watch at a 44mm case and 15mm thickness. It comes in a 316L stainless steel case which provides a good deal of durability. While the watch is a bit on the bulky side, it surprisingly doesn’t feel larger when worn. The bulky profile does give off the impression that it’s a tool watch.

For the movement, the Diver 1000 comes with a 21.6k bph Seiko NH35. It’s stable, accurate, and helps keep the price down.

Overall, it’s a perfectly capable dive watch with a stylish flair.

3. Deep Blue Pro Sea Diver

If you’re a professional diver who’s looking for a dive watch but doesn’t want to spend too much, the Deep Blue Pro Sea Diver is worth checking out.

For the Hardcore Underwater Explorers

The Pro Sea Diver is available in many different bezel colors such as black and blue, orange, and black and green. The rotating bezel is a thing of beauty with its 120 oddly satisfying clicks. The bezel and case give the watch a gear-like look.

The plain blue dial nails the typical dive watch element and I must say that it looks even better in person. At 3 o’clock sits the date window and all the hands and markers are generously lumed.

Again, this watch is powered by the respectable 24-jewel Seiko NH36 movement with an accuracy of -20 to +40 seconds per day. It’s not the best movement but it offers consistency and accuracy with a solid power reserve.

Of course, you can’t review this watch without mentioning the 1,000-meter depth rating. That’s right, it’s a professional dive watch by all means.

Deep Blue Watches Review: Are They Any Good?

To end this Deep Blue watches review, we now put down our verdict.

Should you check out what Deep Blue has to offer? Only if you’re looking for a high-performance boutique dive watch that won’t break the bank. For the money, you get a lot of watch that will serve you well, even if you’re not a professional diver. If for some reason that you don’t like dive watches, Deep Blue might just not be the brand for you.