Tradition Archives - Watch Ideas

January 26, 2023January 27, 2023

The Best Pocket Watches: A Watch Review

Today we will be reviewing the best pocket watches. Pocketwatches are like mini time machines that bring you back to the past. In fact, the first-ever watches were designed as pocket watches dating as far back as 1524!

Unlike typical wristwatches, pocket watches are meant to be worn in your, well, pocket of course! ( Where else were you thinking)?

Important features of pocket watches include, but are not limited to, design, innovative features, movement, and style. Today, you will find out why ultimately chose the Avalon Skeleton Pocket Watch as the BEST POCKET WATCH.

This review was not easy. Many pocket watches are GREAT due to the insane detail and quality pieces put into them. So at the end of the day, YOU will decide which watch is best for you!

Best Pocket Watches	Why It Is Best	Pocket Rating
Avalon Skeleton	Sleek design, 17 Jewel mechanical movement, VERY AFFORDABLE, Great materials used	★★★★★
Armourlite Tritium	Full stainless steel design, innovative tritium lights, 60-month battery life, sapphire crystal	★★★★★
Tissot Bridgeport	Very accurate, high-quality movement, beautiful and clean design, classic look, large case	★★★★★
ALPS Pocket Watch	Unique design, reliable movement, GREAT PRICE, skeleton dial	★★★★★
Bulova Stainless Steel Pocket Watch	Shiny, polished design, durable calendar (date) feature	★★★★★

Avalon Skeleton

You can never go wrong with a skeleton dial design. This type of design shows off the true beauty of a timepiece; the movement. And Avalon does a great job with the Avalon Skeleton!

Everything about the Avalon Skeleton is just great. From the beautifully polished brass case to the bright white dial with bold cobalt blue hour, minute, and second hands.

It is Reliable

The 17 jewel mechanical movement runs this bad boy. It is sure to keep on ticking and staying accurate for years and years. In fact, there is a LIFETIME warranty for the Avalon Skelton.

It is affordable: With such a great movement you would think that this watch would be double, or even TRIPLE the price that it is going for. It is not easy at all to find a watch of this caliber for this price point.

Top Features

17-Jewel Movement: For reliability and pinpoint accuracy
Skeleton Dial: To display the complex movement inside
Sapphire Crystal: To keep the dial from acquiring nasty scratches

Armourlite Tritium

The Armourlite Tritium has a nice and simple, classic design; with certain features that are innovative and unique to this specific timepiece.

Where this watch shines (no pun intended) is within the markers on the dial. They are fitted with tritium lights, which make it so the watch is able to light up in the dark. So no worrying about not being able to see the time, it will shine in any type of darkness.

Isn’t that awesome! It is not every day that you see a watch that “glows” on its own. There is plenty of LED light watches in the market today, but not so many tritium light watches. The watch is built with a thick and strong stainless steel case and an anti-reflective sapphire crystal.

Follow the Light

Everything about this watch design is pretty classic. There is no doubt that it is well made and built for durability. It is NOT a mechanical movement, however, the battery life can last up to 60 months! What truly makes it unique is the tritium lights. You literally have a little science project going on in your watch; what a perfect conversation starter!

Top Features

Tritium lights: These lights do not use battery power, and light up your watch in the dark
Thick and sturdy case: The case is a whopping 12.8mm thickness!
Battery life: The battery can last up to 60 MONTHS!

Tissot Bridgeport

The Tissot Bridgeport is the most expensive watch being reviewed today but at the same time the most reliable timepiece created by a top watchmaker on the market.

You can just tell this is a high-quality watch at first glance. The case shines in the light, showing off the deep polish and handsome stainless steel that was used in creating this beauty. Everything is steel and polished on this timepiece, making it a true attention grabber. Overall, it is an easy and simple design, built with top quality pieces from the all-mighty Tissot watchmakers.

Pricey, but High Quality

Tissot is a watchmaker that is highly regarded. Almost as much as the TOP names like Rolex! The mechanical movement is extremely accurate and you can watch this precious piece at work through the skeleton dial. Any search for the Tissot name will come back with some great feedback. Not only is this a long time brand, but a TOP brand that will probably be prevalent in the watch world FOREVER!

Top Features

Top Quality: Everything from the stainless steel case, to the chain is just amazing
Tissot Movement: This movement offers unreal accuracy
Classic Design: The Roman Numerals really make this watch look like an old timepiece. But it just looks too perfect to be from the past!

ALPS Pocketwatch

ALPS Pocketwatch

Here to the most interesting pocket watch on today’s review. Is it from a movie? how old is it? Does it unleash a genie? These are all valid questions to ask when looking at this masterpiece.

What do you think, pretty unique, right!?

When looking at this watch you may think that you need to sell your car, take out a second mortgage and move into a studio apartment. Well, not today! The ALPS is actually VERY MUCH affordable. And for the looks and unique features, is definitely worth a purchase, or heck maybe even five purchases.

The awesome stainless steel engraved case is a great first look before opening it up and seeing the classic dial with the gold movement within. The case is a bronze color, which really goes with the overall look of this timepiece. It has the classic and librarian feel, but the engraving makes the watch look like it belongs to a wizard! Unlike some of the other watches being reviewed, this one is even waterproof. So no big deal if you hop into the pool!

A STEAL

I can truly say that this watch is what defines a steal. A mechanical movement, engraved design, skeleton dial, and durability. You can not ask for a better bang for your buck!

Top Features

PRICE: This is the TOP feature about this watch that does not relate to the aesthetics
Engraved Case: Exquisite engraving gives the watch a unique look that can do not look like any other watch you have seen (unless you are a sorcerer)
Mechanical movement: It may not be as accurate as the Tissot, but then again it is 1/100th of the price! It comes with very easy to understand instructions on how to get the most out of your movement
Skeleton Dial: So you can be hypnotized watching the mechanical movement at work

Bulova Stainless Steel

Bulova Stainless Steel

Bulova outdid themselves with this gorgeous timepiece.

Yes, it may be pretty simple. Stainless steel with a white dial. But everything about it just looks great! The piece shines brighter than the sun. You can truly tell that the Bulova is made of high-quality material. It is large, with a 50mm case and offers a date feature on the dial. Current owners are very happy with their watch, and you can see from all the great reviews on the Amazon page.

Beautiful Look

It is an easy pick to say what makes this watch great. All around it really is a solid timepiece. But it just looks so clean and professional. Although this is the last watch to be reviewed, does not mean it is a bad watch! The stainless steel case and chain, perfectly compliment the BRIGHT white dial. It is definitely a classic look but looks new school because it is just so shiny.

Top Features

Polished Stainless Steel: For a crisp look that makes the timepiece shine like no other
Water Resistance: Up to 30 meters of water resistance
Large Case: A 50mm case makes it so the watch is easy to read

Final Recommendation – Best Pocket Watch

None of the watches reviewed today are “bad watches.” There is a certain feature that landed any one of these watches on the review board for the day, which makes each watch special in its own way. Some watches definitely have more reviews than others, some are VERY low priced, and others are somewhat expensive.

If it is up to me, rating a watch by design, movement, unique features, and durability; I would tell you to purchase the Avalon Skeleton. Overall, this watch simply kills every area that I reviewed. It has a SUPERIOR MOVEMENT, robust design with a classic look and can take some bangs and bruises.

The beauty of watch reviews is everyone has a different taste. So what I chose, may not be your favorite. My goal is to guide watch buyers to purchase top watches and steer them toward some good names. I truly hope I made your choice of watch selection a breeze! Happy POCKETWATCH shopping my friends!

Let Us Know Your Thoughts

Is there a watch you feel is missing? Have you purchased the best pocket watch and LOVE it! Let us know, it would be great to hear feedback from watch connoisseurs and horologists!

January 23, 2023January 26, 2023

Hamilton Watches Review

Classic wrist-watches are back! Sales of analog watches have been rising consistently over the last few years and we’re ready. Hamilton watches are the definition of classic, having been in existence for well over a hundred years. Have they stood the test of time? Still beloved for their high quality and ranged pricing, Hamilton Watches remain a top contender in their industry. In this article, we are covering the Hamilton watches review.

Historical Footprints of Hamilton

Now a Swiss manufacturer, Hamilton began as a true American brand. Starting with quality pocket watches, Hamilton was a well-known brand of its time. The expansion of the railroad helped its quality image greatly. Business with the railroad was dangerous and accuracy was desperately needed. Hamilton’s watches provided that accuracy.

Making railroad watches, Hamilton was gaining attention that continued into World War I. During the war, Hamilton was an official supplier of the U.S. Armed Services. At that time, they produced their first wrist watches. In the following years, they also began to design pieces for the air. They moved from the forefront of making history with the railroad to the historical advance of aviation, without missing a beat.

In World War II, Hamilton stopped producing for the general public and focused on equipping the Armed Forces. Once again, accuracy and quality were needed more than ever, and Hamilton was called upon to provide that. After the war, their watches were shown in multiple Hollywood movies, including one on the wrist of Elvis Presley. This solidified the brand’s popularity, not just for quality and precision but also for style.

Throughout the years, Hamilton continued to make fantastic technological advances, including being the first to make a digital electronic watch. In the early 2000s, they moved to Switzerland, the heart of watchmaking. As for the film industry, Hamilton watches are still shown on the big screen, often in movies that feature fictional scientific or sci-fi settings like “Interstellar.”

Hamilton’s Versatile Style

One of the most impressive features of Hamilton Watches is the fact that their watches suit nearly any style and function. If you’re looking for a watch that is precise, has a solid history, and will work with your personality, you’ll likely find it with a Hamilton.

Hamilton Intra-Matic Silver Dial Leather Watch

Want a simpler watch with a classic, professional design? Hamilton has some great options, including the Intra-Matic Silver Dial Leather Watch. This is a great example of a watch that can be worn in any setting. It will add to your professional dress code, look great for a special occasion, or it can class up a casual look. This design is chic, minimalist, and retro.

This analog watch has a fixed stainless-steel bezel and a sapphire crystal dial window that is resistant to scratches. The elegant dark hands and hour markers are brought into focus by the black leather strap. The watch feels high-quality without being overly flashy. Adding to the retro style is the lack of a second hand. Some find that a bit off-putting while others prefer it to keep the style consistent. A nice additional feature of this watch is the date, found at the 6-o’clock marker.

This watch is one of Hamilton’s most elegant options, but it certainly isn’t as high-tech or complicated as other options. For anyone wanting a more traditional, classic watch without all the embellishments of a chronograph option, Hamilton shows that they have options.

Unisex Ventura

While many of their watches are focused on precision, durability, and nostalgic/classic looks, they also provide styles like the Unisex Ventura.

This watch goes against the grain of what you consider a traditional watch to look like and that’s why it is a prime example of Hamilton’s versatility. With a black calfskin band, the watch features a beautiful, uniquely shaped stainless-steel case. The dial window is made of anti-reflective sapphire, so you get a consistently clear look at the analog display. The hour and minute markers are designed with slim lines and dots. The overall look is unique with rather bold design choices that are toned down with sleek, understated components like the markers.

Hamilton has a range of styles. However, the question is, are they still innovative and made for pioneers of the future, like they used to be?

Hamilton Watches, Still for the Future?

Since its creation, Hamilton was known for its precision and for being a companion to visionary explorers. With its ties to both World Wars and advancements on land and in the air, there’s a lot of history behind the name. Is that history something we can rely on still? Based on some of their chronograph and durable watches, I would dare to say so.

The Khaki X-Wind

This Khaki X-Wind chronograph watch is modern and beautifully crafted. If you’re willing to pay the moderately steep price, it will take you places. The leather strap has contrast stitching as an added touch to make it stand out. The case is beautiful stainless steel along with the buckle closure. It allows for snorkeling and swimming as it is water-resistant up to 330-feet. Deep dives likely wouldn’t be a great choice, though. The analog display has H-30 automatic movement and there are a day and a date window at the 9-o’clock marker, which reviewers love.

Overall, people say that the features and information this watch provides is overwhelming, yet somehow it all works together seamlessly and is displayed attractively. Again, at a rather steep price, this watch seems to be a beautiful one that shows Hamilton is keeping its reputation strong.

The Khaki King Pilot Black Dial Watch

For under a thousand, you can still find fantastic watches that are far more than ornaments and that’s what keeps Hamilton great. The Khaki King Pilot Black Dial watch is a prime example of a durable watch that people use as they make waves…literally. Water-resistant up to 660 feet, this is not a watch you keep hidden only for special occasions, though its nearly all-black look is very attractive.

Hamilton has many watches, including this one, that are meant to help you live your life to the fullest, not just in terms of fashion. While Hamilton provides watches you may only want to wear on special occasions, they also produce timepieces for great adventures. With durable sapphire crystals protecting the dial window from scratching, you can rely on this watch to be durable.

Some reviewers had issues breaking in the leather strap, but overall, this seems to be a great watch that people love. The numerals are reflective, and readability is great, even in difficult lighting. The Khaki King Pilot black is a perfect example of how Hamilton Watches are still here for the future, not just in fashion but also for adventurous growth.

Hamilton Watches are for the Everyday

One of the best parts of buying a new watch is to enjoy it during your everyday tasks. Nothing complicated, not a style meant for fashion week, and not a watch you wear climbing Mount Rainier.

A watch that can stand by you during your eight to five can be your most valuable timepiece. That’s why, when reviewing a watch brand, it’s incredibly important to look at some of these watches…The ones meant for the everyday. Because, in all likelihood, they are the most needed.

We’re going to look at a couple of options that display this category perfectly. However, I recommend researching more about Hamilton Khaki Field watches if you have the time, as they provide further great examples.

Men’s Jazzmaster Thinline

Our first example is the Men’s Jazzmaster Thinline. This watch is extremely affordable for the quality and seems to be well-loved. The round stainless-steel case draws you in to enjoy the beautiful watch face behind a protective sapphire crystal window. The two-hand analog display, with quartz movement, is accurate and elegantly exhibited by silver hands.

The strap is alligator-embossed brown leather with sharp contrast stitching. Overall, this is a gorgeous everyday watch.

A beloved feature is the date window, which is very small and keeps the watch face open. One feature that is less beloved is an absent second hand. However, the watch seems to be beautiful and classic without being “in your face.”

Unisex Khaki King

Another option we can look at to measure Hamilton’s more every day watches is the Unisex Khaki King. This strap is leather with contrast stitching, making it extremely visual…Especially in comparison with its stainless-steel case, black round black dial, and light sword-shaped hands. Overall, this watch is extremely simple in and of itself, but the colorful design choices make it unique and visually appealing.

On the inner dial, you can see the 24-hour time. There are windows for the day and date, making this watch extremely informational in a simple way. Reviewers love its versatility and it’s no wonder. Besides formal events, this watch will go with just about any style. It is also comfortable and very durable. Essentially, this watch is the perfect everyday companion.

Conclusion – Hamilton Watches Review

It seems that Hamilton Watches is an extremely high-quality brand that has stood the test of time. With watches that work for any occasion and any lifestyle, I encourage you to look at these options. While some of these watches are on the pricier side, if you truly appreciate quality craftsmanship, I believe you will be happy with a Hamilton watch. I specifically recommend the Unisex Khaki King for its quality and adaptability.

January 22, 2023January 23, 2023

Glycine Combat Sub Review: Top-Rated Dive watches

After serving in the market as one of the most sturdy and captivating watches, the Glycine Combat Sub has qualities made for extracting conditions of wear and use. For this article we made a deep Glycine Combat Sub Review, including pros and cons of this infamous divers watch.

Far back in 1914 during World War I, the brand was developed by Eugene Meylan creating extremely precise, small movements for ladies at its factory in Bienne, Switzerland.

In 1953, the brand developed some sort of underground reputation with the Airman watch, which is being part of the Glycine range ever since. But from a humble foundation in the early 20th century, Glycine has built up a watch brand capable of doing things differently to keep their fans proud. The company was however recently acquired by Invicta, which questioned the brand’s future in terms of quality and design.

Regardless, the all-round brand continues to find ways to make forward-thinking and distinctive designs. One of which is the Combat Sub. Even after all these glory years, the Combat Sub is arguably Glycine’s most popular watch. Making up a line of excellent world time watches established through solid aviation links.

Glycine Combat Sub Review

Pros

Outstanding build quality
Perfect dimensions to suit both large and small wrists
High accuracy
Classic and timeless good looks
Excellent value for money

Cons

Small Date window
No drilled lugs
Large crown

Benefits/Drawbacks

In a world full of Rolex Submariner homages and a lot of copycats, you might be asking if we still need another one. Well, in spite of the name, the Combat Sub may not make the first choice for an exact submariner. It’s entirely a different spec with its unique trademarks for sure. Continue reading to see some of its features.

Outstanding Build Quality

Over the years, the Combat Sub has created a stand for enduring strength and reliability so much that they have become popular among military and sports circles. Equipped with both automatic and chronograph movement housed in rugged construction high-grade steel case, this line of watches should be boasted about.

The Combat Sub doesn’t feel heavy or out of balance. Still, it’s exceptionally built to give an impression as a tough, robust and professional type of watch. The stainless steel case and sapphire crystal ensure the watch’s durability.

It’s very much the same kind of bezel you expect to see on a stylish diver. But the green bezel on GL0091, red on GL0092, brown on GL0093 and GL0094’s blue seem to be a step up from the regular black and silver bezels we see around other dive watches in the market place.

The bezels are positively grippy. Instead of 120 clicks like you find in more expensive watches, this one has only 60 for added confidence and at the same time saving a little on the inners. Better than the usual screw tube, the screw-down crown is large, easy to grip and able to screw in and out without any roughness in the screw thread.

Depending on what you are wearing, you can have the two-tone steel, golden GL0082, black carbon fiber strapped GL0244 and lots more that look the part. But one sure thing is that any of these watches will have a refined look ideal to dress up many outfits. There’s undoubtedly one fashionable enough for your watch collection.

General Style Dial

The dials on the Combat Subs tend to show similar features to the homage – well, except for some slight differences. For starters, the hour markers are a lot smaller with very prominent minute makers in between them. The Arabic numbers included on the dial, including the 24-hour indication, gives an entirely new look to the Combat Sub. Especially if work on a 24 hour time or travel to places where it’s standard.

In terms of simplicity, the dial has a lot going on, but considering the function of each addition – it’s convenient. The hands partially have a Mercedes style, as you will find on the Rolex. However, to be different, it seems a little small, without the three-armed symbols in the middle of the hour hand, and a large rectangle on the end of the seconds’ hand. At least, it’s unique and decent, I suppose!

There are only a few variations within the dials on sub-models of the Combat Subs. Obviously, the design team was having too much fun. The dials come in different colors, but the majority of them have finished matte black, white, and blue colors.

Depending on the hand, some use blocks for indexes and Arabic numbers, others use dots. The date feature on the three o’clock of the dial is small enough and well placed. One good thing is the triple-coated anti-reflective sapphire crystal covering the dial, that’s tough enough to withstand knocks and scratch-resistant. Also, the coasting on the underside adds clarity under different lighting conditions.

Water-resistant

Backed by more than enough years of expertise, the glycine combat sub is water-resistant to 200 meters. Most Glycine Combat Subs have the rotating bezel to help keep track of elapsed time when underwater. The build-up of the solid case back and sapphire glass reinforces the watch’s ability to withstand high pressure underwater.

The 200 meters dive freedom feels like a good bargain. But unfortunately, that’s if you plan to spend only a few minutes down there. It won’t be useful after 15 minutes. Well, unless you’re wearing it only for decoration or as a lucky charm.

The markers provided by Glycine are quite standard with numbers every 5 minutes and 10 minutes markers. These markers are more relevant to avoid running out of air during a dive.

Great Lume Brightness

The Combat Subs uses Superluminova on the hands, and marker – which is as good as it gets. Even the frame around the date window that replaces the three o’clock pointer is no different.

The generously applied lume effectively glows like a torch in the dark. After only a very short exposure to sunlight, you can expect the Glycine Combat Sub to emit a bright glow that lasts long. Good looks are nothing without performance, so on the brighter side, this may just be the best lume watch on the market.

The finishing on the dials is in such a way that the hands, markers, and date wheel will be either darker or brighter to blend appropriately – in the right color combination and can be easily read.

Perfect Dimensions

The diameter of the combat subs measures around 42mm or 44mm, which is the daily camp wear watch requirement of most people. It ranges are 10.6mm thick and 49mm lug to lug, and micro-adjustable flip-lock push-button clasps to be appropriate for many wrist sizes. The slimness, or if you prefer the lack of thickness of the range of watches from Combat Sub, make it comfortably wearable under a shirt cuff.

The Glycine Combat Sub offers several models to choose from. Some are very subtle, while others are dressier. Some come with stainless steel bracelets, leather or rubber straps, and a selection of color combos, straps, styles, and finishes.

High Accuracy

Nothing too spectacular! These days, most Swiss watchmakers do not produce their movement; Glycine is not any different. The robust divers designed Combat Sub features the ETA 2824, also known to the brand as Glycine’s GL224 Swiss-made automatic movement. Combat Sub offers a 38-hour power reserve and a sweeping seconds hand vibrating at 28,800 beats per hour.

As expected, it’s a reliable workhorse, with bidirectional winding, quickest date change, 25 jewels, and hack features. Put together, it’s not overhyped with anything too special, but it’s quite impressive at this price range.

Classic and Timeless Good Looks

Though the glycine watches are absolute stunners, the Combat Sub is a little bit more special. With new versions released seemingly every year, each model comes with some variation, including the barely readable contrast of the recent stealth models. But you can easily spot any of them having a solid stainless steel case, excellent legible dial and sapphire crystal.

As expected from a Glycine product, the finishing is of high-quality, brushed on top and polished to the sides to a very high standard. There’s the leather, rubber, or stainless steel bracelets. It’s all based on your choice. For the casing, there are no extremely distinguishing characteristics. Just the regular well-finished stainless steel that you’ve seen several times.

With the busy design and color schemes, a lot is happening on each Combat Sub. The “modern classic” model with the signature Glycine logo (looking like Aston Martin’s) on the case back can’t be ignored.

After a look at any one of these watch brand, the seductive line of beauty will instantly take any watch enthusiast or diver. It works out as an astonishing diver piece.

Excellent Value for Money

The Glycine is a decent timepiece suitable for anyone requiring quality with excellent value for money. Plus, it’s easily affordable. You might not need to refer to this line as ultra-affordable, but for the price, it offers a lot.

With the Combat Sub, which they seem to re-invent now and again, they have offered various high-quality timepieces into the market. This perception of value already explains why the watch is so popular amidst most categories.

Best to include this beauty to your watch collection as it doesn’t stop as a dive watch. It’s also suitable for other non-related uses.

Conclusion

The entire Combat Subs passes with flying colors. There are variations on each sub-model. However, they look so closely related. Showing quality on every piece.

The look, the ruggedness, reliability, accuracy, perfect dimensions meets up to the expected standards. It feels comfortable and works with all outfits from shorts to T-shirts to cooperate suit and tie. If you need a mid-range diver’s watch that fits your budget, the Combat Sub is your best option for now. Check out the glycine watches review for more on the brand.

January 21, 2023January 22, 2023

Glycine Airman Review: Modern Classic Watches

Based on our research, the Glycine Airman is a fascinating modern classic watch with a rich history. In this Glycine Airman Review we discover how the brand offers excellent watches with a perfect wearing experience, especially for anyone who loves the vintage design.

Compared with other European watch brands, Glycine is not one that will often come up in conversations. Today, even only hardcore watch enthusiasts may remember this brand. But Glycine has been building quality timepieces since Eugene Meylan founded it in 1914. Debuted in 1953, Glycine’s Airman is one of the earliest GMT watches. It may perhaps be the most recognizable watch in the brand’s collection.

From the beginning, the mindset was to make the Glycine Airman specifically for professional airline pilots to have both GMT and local time while they fly. After the many improvement and re-issuing of the Airman, Glycine has populated the market with lots of successful pilot watches. We can’t be surprised how Airman functions as a choice for sport, fashion, and military use.

Pros – Glycine Airman

Excellent wearability
Special features
Easy to read dial
Great value for money
Reliable functions

Cons – Glycine Airman

Small Date window
Poor water resistivity
No extra watch feature

Benefits/Drawbacks – Glycine Airman

With the continuous reissuing and population in the market today, the Airman collection encompasses models that express both early and later designs. But we will keep our focus on the design iteration that the Airman series is best known by.

Excellent Wearability

Characterized by a thick case, large-diameter, long steel lug, and large dials, the Airman sub-series are certainly appealing to the masculine. Each sub-series come in a variety of styles and sizes for different writs. Focusing on this, they have some funky colorways that make lasting impressions.

If you take a good view of them, the dial colors are either white or black. The original Airman has a stainless steel case sizing of 36mmm. Moreover, the ones made after have their stainless case size ranges from 42mm to 46mm. The acrylic crystal glass keeps the timepiece durable to support the standing protection of the case. Its build quality secures the glass from shattering even when dropped.

The dial may seem bulky, but in comparison to other contemporary aviators, it’s relatively small. These days, a size like this as well as the authentic vintage look and feel is hard to come by. The Airman comes with long lugs and wide 20mm strap, which is perfect for keeping the watch on both small and medium-sized wrists. In case this sounds too minuscule, there are other similar Airman Watch sizes to suit larger wrist sizes.

Options of the GMT-hand variations and purist version which opts for a 24-hour dial are available. Glycine describes the purist watches as vintage pieces that stay true to its essence. Also, there are options with and without a GMT, of both 12-hour and 24-hour versions.

Easy to read dial

Like we have mentioned, the Airman sub-series come with either white or black colored dials. For ease of use, the original Airman has large numerals of a 24-hours clock on oversized dials. Some sub-models have large numerals for minute and seconds index laid across the rail track design instead.

The vintage Airman is best known for two outer rings marked with Arabic numerals, with inner minute rings, a tipped and tailed arrow 24 hour hand. The syringe style hand tells the time in local minutes, while a small lollipop indicates the second time zone tipped hand. For every five minutes, it has differentiated circles and rectangles, separated by Arabic numerals. The watch has a simple white date window on the 3 o’clock position, but for easy reading even while in flight the date is displayed in red color.

Special features

The revolution of Aviation watches can attest to the importance of the Glycine Airman. It’s managed to thread a path where only a selected few dares to venture. Between the vintage Airman and the modern re-editions, most of the designs and features are the same.

Beyond these contemporary details of the looks and features, it comes with a 24-hour dial, and 24-hour GMT function, with two distinct crowns. One is on the 3 o’clock and the other on the 4 o’clock position to adjust both local and GMT times.

All Glycine Airman Watches have a date window on the 3 o’clock position. The new models have the Cyclops window to display the scripted date in red, as different from the vintage in black. It also features two outer rings engraved on a rotating bezel, thick lumed hands, and 24-hour markings to ease readability in certain situations.

The water resistivity of the Airman watches is quite low – only 10m. Anyway, the timepieces already describe themselves as one to stay above the ground. If you want a dive watch from this brand, go for the Glycine combat sub. You might find all these features as basic since you can attribute them to other high-end watches. But for a modern classic piece like this one, it’s unique.

Value for money

Today, the Rolex GMT-Master II is arguably the most recognizable GMT watch, but it’s frequently inaccessible to the mass market because of the price tag. On the contrary, the Glycine Airman Vintage is way more accessible when you consider both price and features.

This doesn’t mean the Airman is better by any extent, but from the standpoint of price and quality, Glycine airman has pretty good value – no matter the sub-model you like. In fact, It has distinguishing features from the Rolex and much easier to add to a growing collection.

The price tag on each one genuinely proves the fantastic value of the watch. It’s probably what kept the series in the market for so long, regardless of the decades of market and technological competitions.

Reliable Movements

In its first few years, the brand developed with market demands as the series transitioned further from automatic into quartz driven movements. Although most contemporary Airman Watches still utilizes the base Sellita SW330-1 Swiss movement, otherwise known as the Glycine’s GL293.

It’s an automatic movement based on a reliable ETA 2893-2, operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour and capable of 42-hour power reserve. This power is good enough to keep the watch accurate for over a week, whether it’s on the wrist or off.

Outstanding functions

As a pure necessity for pilots, Glycine worked on the Airman to appeal both professionals and amateur aviators. This Glycine hosts some iconic feature; you wouldn’t find on most watches from that time. Like the 24-hour dial, 24-hour rotating and lockable bezels, and the double crowns. The Vintage Airman was known for a hacking mechanism, but it’s no longer available for the newer movements.

Glycine produces remarkable pieces to stand the test of time where all interiors are hidden and protected with a stainless steel or mineral glass back and a domed plexiglass crystal on the front, which is more charming than the sapphire crystal.

The new Glycine Airman Watches are hackable – as in, the ability to stop the second’s hand by pulling out the crown. The vintage ones had an old fashion solution that’s similar to the locking bezel where the pull pops up a small pin through a hole in the dial and stops the second’s hand at 12:00.

Reputable Brand

The Glycine Airman Watch series encompasses one of the most unappreciated and overlooked aspects of the pilot watch history. With the tasteful reissues and well-designed versions that Glycine continue to releasing, it’s obvious that they are eager to keep their story alive for their fans and watch collectors out there.

Glycine Airman Watches are pure classic pieces — each one with some sense of sentimental attribute – hence the popularity. For instance, the Glycine named the DC-4 after a propeller-driven plane from 1942. The aircraft was reliable for military use in World War II and still useful today to private airlines and operators. As pertaining to this ability, despite not having any distinct features of the DC-4 plane in its design, you can expect the same reliability from this watch as well as the other Glycine Airman watches.

Should you get the Glycine Airman watches?

Unlike most modern watches you find on the market today, every aspect of the Airman stands for quality. The case is of polished steel, with sleek and slender lugs which is typical for a 1950s vintage style. If you are not in league with the original’s 36mm case, you can try out the ones with 42mm – seems like a more appropriate and modern size.

The build quality of the recent Glycine stays faithful to the original with beautiful plexiglass crystal that won’t shatter when smashed into or dropped. What’s more, the small lume pips at every five-minute mark illuminates the dials at night with luminescence rather than the Superluminovas on new model watches.

Even though the Airman subseries have designs that looks so similar to each other, there are specific changes within them. Of the differences, you can find few new sub-series without the brand’s logo on the dial, as well as the PM/AM indicators on the 3 and 9 o’clock positions of some. Whereas the original shows no extra.

The cases are of stainless steel with the back screwed on. Again, some sub-models have a see-through mineral glass on the back. All these qualities are why you shouldn’t pass on the Airman.

Conclusion – Glycine Airman Review

If you have interests in historical relics, Glycine alongside a small list of alternatives is a reasonable choice. The sub-series have managed to release a diverse collection of Airman Watches in various sizes, styles, colors, and prices. Each one competing for the modern market. You just have to love these. Check out more reviews on the Glycine watches.

January 21, 2023January 22, 2023

Longines HydroConquest Review

The Longines HydroConquest line of diving watches are top-of-the-line accessories for the modern businessman. They feature a professional style that also works well with casual attire. If you would like to invest in a premium Swiss brand sports watch, you should consider this line of luxury wristwatches.

As a modern entrepreneur, I needed a wristwatch I could wear with my best suit for those important conference meetings, but also wanted an accessory that would work for weekend get-togethers with friends and family.

The HydroConquest line from Longines easily caught my attention. I was aware of their unsurpassed reputation for creating quality watches. And I admired the dressy casual look of their timepieces. Also, the brand’s customer ratings are some of the best I’ve seen for a watch manufacturer in several years.

Who is the Longines HydroConquest Wristwatch Designed For?

The Longines line of HydroConquest watches were not designed for one single target audience. Instead, the manufacturers created a watch design for a much broader range of customers. The look caters to business professionals and watch enthusiasts alike. Especially those interested in a stylish and long-lasting accessory.

This diving sports watch is water-resistant up to 30 bar. However, that doesn’t mean it is strictly for divers. The chronological dial and luxurious look make this impressive sports watch an excellent choice. The watch is perfect for today’s busy CEOs and top negotiators. It is resistant to both dust and water. This means you can easily wear this sports watch daily without worrying about damage from the elements.

Watch collectors and enthusiasts love this line. Mainly because it features a classic Swiss watch style with several extras. Those extras make the HydroConquest line unique. The sports watch collection offered in various designs features gold or silver straps. The watches are also available with straps made from synthetic materials. The variety of designs allows customers to find one watch to match s their inimitable personality and style preference.

Why We Recommend This Line of Diving Watches

When a watch has enough staying power to remain one of the most talked about diving watches for more than a decade, it’s worth looking into. The HydroConquest was first introduced in 2007 and remains one of the best Swiss made watches you can buy.

The specifications for this collection are impressive 10 years after their release. But as a consumer, you shouldn’t rely on technical aspects alone. It’s impossible to tell how nice a watch truly is unless you try it out for yourself.

Even though I’m not a diver, I do consider myself a watch enthusiast. And I have always loved the rugged yet sophisticated look of Longines’ diver watches. Their sleek design makes them stand out just enough to get noticed. But at the same time, they offer just the right amount of flair so that they don’t take the attention away from the rest of your attire.

Like most Swiss watches, those from the Longines HydroConquest line are designed to outlast any other general sports watch available. They are manufactured using only the finest and most durable materials in the industry.

Designing a mechanical watch that will outlast the owner seems impossible. But that is what he Longines brand strives to achieve with every luxury watch they create.

The Longines brand pays attention to detail. And that fact alone makes their watches worth checking into.

The Features You Will Love About The Longines HydroConquest Watch

The Longines HydroConquest diving watch is a work of art in itself. It features a 41mm diameter stainless steel case. That helps ensure that it remains water resistant up to 300 meters. The steel material is heavy, but refined. This makes it a durable piece that is also comfortable to wear. Leaving the wearer with a very solid feel. The durability you can both see and feel with this watch is sure to provide divers with the confidence they need to take this watch deep into the water without concerns.

All watches in the HydroConquest line feature the impressive Longines caliber 633 movement. These timepieces have a unidirectional rotating aluminum bezel with a sapphire crystal and a screw-in crown. The quality indexing on the bezel and face, along with spaced Arabic numbers and markers make this watch easy to glance at and read quickly throughout the day.

The included date feature may not be a one of the most essential features of this watch, but it’s included as a useful reminder and situated at the 3 o’ clock mark. All these specifications combined make this a fine choice for those spending their day at sea or at the office.

Along with the 41mm stainless steel version, there are also smaller models available such as the 39mm watch designed for slimmer wrists and a 30mm Ladies design. The HydroConquest line even features a 25mm quartz version adding more variety to their collection.

The Downside to the Longines HydroConquest Watch

The Longines HydroConquest line of timepieces is a truly elegant collection. These Swiss watches are so well-made they are still talked about as if they are brand new products over a decade after their initial release. But as with any type of product, there are always some features that all customers aren’t going to agree on.

Overall there are very few complaints about this watch collection. But if you look around online you can find a mentions of negative aspects such as the wedges that provide protection to the watch crown. They do their job well, but are also quite sharp, which can be uncomfortable at times. Others have mentioned the solid case back which is a bit unusual for a mechanical watch.

But since the HydroConquest is also a diving watch, the solid back helps to further ensure the optimal amount of water resistance

About The Longines Brand

Longines is a Swiss luxury watchmaker brand that is based in Saint-Imier, Switzerland. The company was founded in 1832 and since 1983, it has been a subsidiary of another popular Swiss watch brand, Swatch Group.

The company was founded by a Swiss watchmaker Auguste Agassiz. Their first chronograph movement watch, the 20H, was developed in 1878 and featured all three chronograph functions, start, stop and reset. These functions were all accessible via the crown of the watch.

In 1931 Longines partnered with legendary aviator Charles Lindbergh to create an aviation watch known as the Longines Weems. They later followed up this timepiece with another aviation watch, the Longines Chronocinegines, in 1954.

Today the brand has developed strong relationship switch the sporting industry by creating timepieces ideal for those interested in archery, automobile racing, horse racing and tennis. The brand continues to be one of the most popular Swiss diving watch manufactures across the globe and still considered a wise investment for anyone willing to purchase one of these fine, luxurious watches.

Specifics for the Longines HydroConquest Sports Watch

Here are a few of the specifics for the HydroConquest Sports Watch Line.

Watch Case & Bracelet

Case & Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
Specifications: Screw-in Crown and Unidirectional rotating bezel.
Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
Screw-down case back
Water resistant up to 30 bar
Case Dimension: Ø 41.00 mm
Bracelet Buckle: Double-security folding clasp and integrated diving extension

Movement, Functions, & Dials

Caliber: L633 self-winding mechanical movement with 28’800 vibration per hours. 38 hours of power reserve in all.
Function: hours, minutes, seconds, and date
Arabic numerals and indexes for markers with Super-LumiNova®
Silver polished hands also with Super-LumiNova®

Why We Think You Should Consider Buying the Longines HydroConquest Watch

A Longines HydroConquest wristwatch is a smart buy for anyone who loves the beauty and craftmanship of a luxury divers watch, but also wants a timepiece they can wear anywhere at any time. It’s a luxury watch that works like your traditional sports watch. So, you never have to switch out timepieces when going from business to casual.

The HydroConquest line of watches features a high visibility display with a sapphire crystal glass. These watches include the brand’s Super-LumiNova® feature which illuminates the watch face so you can easily see the dial hands and display in dark settings.

The watches have a popular 41mm casing size with the brand’s L633 movement that is based off of ETA 2824. Each watch also includes a diver extension bracelet and has a 300m water resistance rating for peace of mind while diving.

Final Thoughts on the Longines HydroConquest Review

The HydroConquest line of watches by Longines features timepieces that are a remarkable masterpiece of today’s innovative watch manufacturing. The sweeping automatic movement works similar to a Rolex, which is a testament of the quality of the Longines brand. With that type of comparison, it is easy to see why so many watch enthusiasts are impressed by this line of wristwatches.

Overall, the quality of the HydroConquest diving watches remains to be some of the very best that you can buy, and that’s saying a lot considering these watches have been available for more than ten years. While highly advanced watch models have been developed by other brands in the past decade, the HydroConquest continues to stand its ground and remain a favorite with luxury watch enthusiasts.

If you are interested in investing in a high-quality Swiss timepiece, the Longines brand is a good place to start your search. You can be assured that you are buying a wristwatch that with withstand the test of time and technology. And considering that these watches are around a sixth of the price of a Rolex, a Longines HydroConquest is a smart choice for watch collectors on a budget.

January 20, 2023January 21, 2023

Wittnauer Watches Review

Wittnauer has a long history in the watchmaking world. Beginning over a hundred years, this brand has had its ups and downs in popularity. At their beginning, Wittnauer watches and instruments were used for flight, war, and adventure. Wittnauer instruments were even featured in Amelia Earheart’s solo flight across the Atlantic in 1932. Through many changes, they’ve continued to stay afloat and currently provide quite a few very exciting pieces, both beautiful and useful. This article covers an unbiased Wittnauer watches review.

Reliable and Active Pieces

Wittnauer watches were known for their ability to create reliable pieces that fit a time full of innovation, exploration, and even war. They still produce many watches that are great for those who are active and those who simply need a reliable, attractive watch. We are going to look at a few watches that highlight some utilitarian watches that Wittnauer produces.

Wittnauer Black Dial Watch WN3003

This WN3003 watch is a beautiful stainless-steel chronograph that shows how Wittnauer can create both beautiful and functional watches. The analog display has quartz movement and is protected by scratch-resistant sapphire glass. The bracelet is faceted and has a double-press deployment closure. The watch has subtle, beautiful features, with a gunmetal sunray dial, luminous markers, and luminous hands. The watch is water-resistant to 50 meters.

Reviewers love that this piece has the appearance of a luxury watch because, while it is quite luxurious, it is also quite cheap. This watch, with its slick silver and black contrasts, can be dressed up or down easily. With the extremely affordable price of this watch, you can enjoy wearing it out and about. Terror at the idea of losing a much more expensive brand’s watch, like Rolex, can often negate the fun of wearing it. With this watch, you have the feel and look of luxury while paying very little for it.

Wittnauer Men’s WN1002

The Wittnauer Men’s WN1002 is a traditional, rustic piece. The rose-gold, leather, and black combined provides an earthy, natural feel to this watch. The strap is brown crocodile leather and the dial is a beautiful gunmetal sunray. The skeleton hands are luminous and have a white accent. Featuring a day and date window, the display is protected by a scratch-free sapphire crystal and rose-gold ion-plated stainless steel 42mm case.

Overall, this is a gorgeous watch with beautiful detail. Product pictures do not do this beautiful watch justice.

Most people seem to adore this watch as an every-day piece for casual wear. This is not a watch to be worn to a black-tie dinner, but it is still eye-catching and will gain quite a bit of attention. The uniqueness of its design and color-coordination is a big draw for this watch. You are not going to be seeing many of them around.

Wittnauer WN3011

This Wittnauer WN3011 is a unique watch that truly draws the eye to it. Looking ready for any adventure you could throw at it, this is a watch you can wear for any occasion. The chronograph is in a dark black ceramic with rose-gold finish accents. The dial is black, and the watch has a double-press deployment closure. The sapphire glass will protect it from scratches and harm. The markers and hands are distinctively luminous, and the watch features a calendar box. The watch’s movement is Japan quartz. The watch is also water-resistant up to 50 meters.

This watch seems truly luxurious. The ceramic black is extremely attractive, and the rose-gold touches illuminate the face. This is a watch for anyone in just about any setting. Regardless of where you wear it, the watch will gain attention.

Bold and Beautiful

Something that becomes very apparent the moment you investigate Wittnauer watches is the fact that they have quite a collection of brilliant formal watches. With Wittnauer’s low prices, an appealing factor of this brand is the unique pieces you can get without shelling out a lot of money. We’re going to look at some of the more attention-grabbing pieces.

Wittnauer WN3013

If we were looking for attention-grabbing, nothing else will quite meet that description like the Wittnauer WN3013. This watch is anything but subtle and plain. In fact, it’s almost as if it has something to prove.

This watch is stainless steel with the dial being silver-toned with a crystal pave setting. The strap is stainless steel with stones spreading out from the 44mm case onto the strap part of the way around it. It uses Japan quartz for movement and the dial window is protected with Hardlex.

Again, this is a gorgeous watch. With the wrong outfit or setting, though, this watch could go from attention-grabbing to a little bit gaudy. Reviews about this watch are glowing. No one can believe that this stunner is as cheap as it is. In general, it is a well-liked watch. While it is a bit dramatic, who doesn’t need a bit of drama in their life?

Wittnauer WN3057

A little bit calmer but no less classy is the Wittnauer Wn3057. This watch is a strange bird but in a great way. The round 44mm case is black with little crystals planted around the rim and inside the face of the watch. The contrast and almost surprising element of the sparking detail are what makes this watch so distinctive. Glancing past the watch, you think you are looking at a beautiful but relatively basic black stainless-steel watch with a white face. After a moment, you finally absorb the fact that you are looking at many crystals.

This is a great watch for both dressier events and professional settings.

Wittnauer Men’s WN3037

While there is still a lot of bling in this Wittnauer WN3037 watch, the style is unique. With 284 hand-set crystals on this tonneau-shaped case, this chic watch is strangely understated. In the right setting, this watch will be the perfect accessory for an elegant event or a night on the town.

The band is stainless steel and crystals along the case stand in gorgeous contrast against the black brushed sunray dial.

Reviewers love this watch and, while it is meant for men, women find the watch to work well for them as well. Overall, this is a great piece that highlights the cheap but versatile, classy, and eye-catching watches Wittnauer is making.

History of Wittnauer

Wittnauer was founded by Albert Wittnauer, an immigrant from Switzerland who came to the U.S. in the late 19the century as a teenager. He began to work with his brother-in-law, who imported Swiss watches. Helped by his brother, Albert decided there was a need for timepieces with high-quality Swiss watches but locally made to save on money.

The brand was established in 1885 and Wittnauer movements were made by Swiss firms on their behalf at first. They began small as a family business but grew very quickly as the world changed. Wittnauer produced instruments and watches for aviation units in World War I when durability and accuracy were needed more than ever.

They also provided timepieces and instruments to those who would change the world. As we mentioned previously, Amelia Earheart was one such explorer who utilized pieces provided by Wittnauer. She wasn’t the only one. In fact, Wittnauer is known for providing products to adventurers and explorers who would go down in history. Neil Armstrong wore a Wittnauer during his Gemini 8 mission. This brand was used widely for a variety of things but at the forefront was adventure and exploration both on land and in the air.

For most of the 20^th century, Wittnauer kept its acclaimed reputation. Sadly, they came across budget issues and were bought by Bulova in 2001. While popularity has certainly declined in recent decades, Wittnauer is still producing quality watches that are reminiscent of the days when they were literally keeping track of history as it happened.

Final Thoughts

Wittnauer seems to be a brand that has withstood many a bump in the road. This brand has been around for a very long time. Like any company that has existed for over a hundred years, there are bound to be issues, ups, downs, and confusion as it enters modern times. The brand surviving two world wars and contributing to monumental moments in history proves its worth. But, a little more important than its history is what Wittnauer’s products look like today.

Both Wittnauer’s formal and more utilitarian watch options may not be top-of-the-line but they are good watches. They are also well-crafted and have a truly original style. The incredible pricing of most of the watches is also a huge factor. There are very few watches available on the market with such a long history, beautiful pieces, and affordable prices. If you are looking to invest your money into a top-tier watch, this is not going to be the best option. However, if you just want a high quality, beautiful watch that has a great history, Wittnauer will have something to suit your needs.

January 20, 2023January 21, 2023

Rado Watch Review

Rado watches are made well and have been consistently innovative since the brand’s origins over a hundred years ago. That being said, are they worth their generally high cost? Looking through some of the more historic, innovative, and appealing designs, we see that they are certainly worth it to those who can truly appreciate Rado’s aesthetic and novelty. This article covers the Rado watch review and the most iconic models of the brand.

Watches That Show What Rado is All About

Rado has been at the forefront of new watch technology for decades. If you want to own a watch from a brand that certainly has a strong footprint in the history of watchmaking, Rado is a good option. Again, its high price does set it apart from other brands. Currently, there are many watches of great quality and modern, innovative styles that are cheaper. However, Rado’s brand has stood the test of time and, to many, would be a proud piece to own.

History of Rado

Rado’s origins date back over a hundred years. Always known for its style and innovative designs, this brand has seen many landmarks in its long life. Rado began as a collaboration among three brothers in 1917. Working inside their Swiss home at first, the Schlup & Co. watchmaking factory, which would soon start the Rado brand, began very small but grew quickly. In the 1940s, Schlup and Co. were one of the largest manufacturers of watch movements.

Rado was born in the fifties when Schlup & Co. started to sell watches under that brand name. Rado quickly gained traction. Recognized across the world, Rado started its innovative pattern with water-resistant models.

For the next few decades, Rado produced quality watches known distinctly for their classy, unique designs. Along with Rado’s unique aesthetic, it was also known for consistently producing innovative designs that changed watch expectations.

Overall, there is a lot to say positively about Rado. Their watches are gorgeous, to say the least. They have a long and intriguing history full of innovation. They are also relatively rare. You’re not going to see many Rado watches on the street. In fact, they only manufacture 500,000 a year.

Making Strides

The DiaStar

Among their innovations is the creation of the first scratch-resistant watch. This watch was revolutionary and a great treasure. Called the DiaStar, this watch used hard metal and sapphire crystal—common now but not at the time. Overall, it was a flawless, scratch-less piece that could be worn for years and still look brand new.

Currently, you can still purchase a version of the DiaStar, a classic piece that provides the protected and retro feeling you’d want from a classic Rado design.

This DiaStar watch is almost all silver with a stainless-steel case and strap. The analog dial, however, is black with silvery, luminescent hands and diamond hour markers that provide the subtle class that makes Rado the brand it is.

At the 6-o’clock position, you can find the date and day. The 35mm oval case is eye-catching and unique. The window, of course, is sapphire crystal. Last, but not least, the watch is water-resistant to approximately 100-feet.

While the face is a bit smaller than what some may prefer, this watch is a classic and it will last. The great thing about Rado is that quality is pretty much a guarantee.

Rado V10K

Do you know what’s even better than being known for creating a scratchless watch? Creating the hardest watch.

Many feel that other watch brands have surpassed Rado in relevance in recent years, matching in quality and better in price than this Swiss brand. However, very few argue that Rado was at the forefront of creating watches as close to impermeable as possible. One of the best examples of this is the Rado V10K watch, which was known as the hardest watch available.

The V10K has an incredibly unique and striking design. The band is rubber and the watch has quartz movement. But what makes it unique is how Rado made it so hard. The case is coated in high-tech diamond…. some of the hardest material on earth. It is an innovative design that made people’s jaws drop.

While the price is high, this piece is unique and a conversation starter. For those who love the design and appreciate its technology, this watch is a great investment. However, there are some who genuinely dislike the design and do not feel it adds much to their experience. Others love the fact that they can feel comfortable wearing such an expensive and high-end watch while playing their favorite sports, hiking, and just about anything else. Generally, with the purchase of a watch of a bigger brand at such a high cost, the buyer wouldn’t feel comfortable wearing the watch except to work or on special occasions. This watch, however, is made for anything you throw at it.

Entering the World of Ceramic

Rado R5.5 in Black

A truly signature part of Rado’s history is its use of high-tech ceramic. Rado perfected the use of ceramic in watches as both a way to make their products more durable and fashionable. Blowing up in the nineties, Rado began to make many watches using this material. Why? Ceramic is ten times harder and much lighter than gold. It’s also hypoallergenic.

One great example of Rado’s continued ceramic production is the Rado R5.5. With a distinctive square design, this watch is simple yet flawlessly chic. The ceramic case is 36mm and the quartz movement is protected with the sapphire crystal dial window. The hands are luminous, and a date window sits at the 3 o’clock marker.

While ceramic is so much harder than most other materials, it is not quite as waterproof as some. The watch can be resistant to water up to 99-feet but it’s advised that the wearer avoids submerging in water or showering with it.

Esenza Touch

With continued success in innovative technology, Rado kept its pattern into the 2000s. This time, they created the first portable and ceramic touch device through the Rado Esenza Touch.

This watch is elegant and fit for a lady…literally. This watch is designed for women and seeps elegance. With a simple swipe, this watch can be set easily. This version of the Esenza (the Jubile) is even more glamorous with over 60 diamonds framing the black dial. The diamonds aren’t so large that they immediately draw attention in a gaudy way, in fact, quite the opposite. The detail is magnificent.

The oval case is quite distinctive with sapphire crystal integrated for protection and to make it more beautiful. The bracelet closes with a titanium double-folding clasp that has a push-button.

Again, the ceramic of this watch adds a level of protection and durability that many other fashion watches don’t have.

Beauty and Brains

Original Golden Dial Watch

While many of Rado’s watches are on the more understated, classy side, Rado also has some very flashy pieces that will have all eyes on you. One such watch is one of Rado’s highest-rated watches, the Original Gold Dial. This may not be the most innovative watch of Rado’s, but it is certainly one of their best. With a lot of features in a compact space, The Golden Dial is a gorgeous piece.

The 43mm golden-plated stainless-steel case surrounds a classic circular face. It’s protected by sapphire crystal. Movement is Swiss automatic and the hour markers are diamond. At the 6 o’clock marker is the day and date display. This watch is water-resistant up to 100-feet of water but discretion is advised!

With glowing reviews about this watch everywhere, there is little doubt it is a fan favorite. The gold is luminous and extremely eye-catching. Along with the looks, there is a lot of information that fit compactly.

There are a lot of watch options that Rado provides. While this brand has a pretty distinct aesthetic, like this Gold Dial Watch, you can find a lot of different styles for a lot of different occasions.

Final Thoughts

Rado has incredible watches that are stylish, modern, and in some cases, retro. Their strong history in innovation makes it a brand that anyone would be proud to own. However, the question of whether the price is worth it, all depends.

From reviews and research, the worth of Rado seems to come down to whether or not you identify with the style and aesthetic that makes Rado so distinct. One watch that someone absolutely adored, another found “cheap.” Are they high quality? Absolutely. They are also fashionable. However, they may just not be your “cup-of-tea.”

In order to be sure that this watch will be worth it to you, make sure that you love the style and functions of the watch. Do you love the movement provided, the material it is made out of, and everything else? Another rewarding quality of owning a Rado is knowing that you are not going to be seeing them everywhere.

They are comparably rare to other brands. Buying a Rado is an investment, and since they are expensive, make sure the investment is worth it to you. Regardless, down the line, this brand will still be likely worth quite a bit of money. It may be smart to buy one of their better watches now as they’ll be worth more in the future.

January 20, 2023January 21, 2023

Rolex 16700 Vs. 16710 GMT Face-off: Will it be Pepsi or Coke?

Two Rolex GMT models. One winner. Which watch will defeat all odds and take home the gold, Rolex 16700 vs 16710?

Now that you got your reality television show introduction, you know it is time for another amazing watch review. Both the Rolex GMT 16700 and the Rolex GMT 16710, are fantastic watches. But sadly I have to make the decision between the two so my ~~greedy~~ amazing readers can be happy and choose one. With that being said, due to the latest design and updates paired with a handsome, yet classic look, I have to recommend the Rolex GMT 16710 for the win. If you want more details as to why, just read below……..

Compare and Contrast

Here is a closer look at what makes the watches different (not much). Very subtle differences separate the two. The main factor is the movement.

Rolex GMT 16700	Rolex GMT 16710
2.5 mag. cyclops	2.5 mag. cyclops
Stainless steel bracelet	Stainless steel bracelet (matte)
40mm case	40mm case
Oyster bracelet	Oyster bracelet
Multi-colored bezel (2 choices)	Multicolored bezel (3 choices)
Black dial w/ luminescent hands	Black dial w/ luminescent hands
31 jewel, 3175 Calibre movement	31 jewel, 3185 or 3186 movement (independent hour hand)

Rolex GMT 16700

Despite the unavoidable loss, this watch should not be looked down upon. It is an expertly crafted model from Rolex, that offers distinct features and unbelievable reliability. It did in fact, last for over ten years (1988-1999). That tells you something for a watch. I would recommend this piece to those who are wanting a top-notch watch at a great price!

Design

Rolex always has great designs with their watches. And the same can be said for the GMT 16700. With a well-sized 40mm case and a multicolored bezel that just screams out buy me! This model features an elegant red color on the bottom half of the bezel and a “Pepsi” blue on the top. The colors fit perfectly and actually match very well with the dark black dial and the red second hand.

Due to the color scheme, some people may stray away from wearing this watch with dress clothes. But I say, go AHEAD! In my opinion, the tones from all of the colors present a very strong, elegant, yet fancy aura. One that will grab the attention of anyone surrounding.

Keep it Classic

Even though the watch has innovative, new features that are not native to the original GMT. The timepiece still has an overall classic design. For one, if the blue and red bezel throws you off, the watch still features a 2.5 magnifying cyclops, sitting atop the domed sapphire crystal and a bi-directional bezel. Familiar, yet different at the same time. A well-deserved rating of 4.5/5 stars goes to the design of this watch.

Movement

We all know by now (I hope) that Rolex always uses top-notch movements inside of their watches. But as time passes, some become more innovative and reliable than others.

The GMT 16700 uses a caliber 3175 automatic movement. It has a hacking and quickset function to set the time. Hacking just means that when the twistable crown is pulled out, the second hand HALTS, to ensure more accurate timekeeping. Quickset, just means that the date can be changed quickly, without the hour hand having to pass 12 am. As for reliability, this watch does not disappoint.

The 31 jewel, 28,000 vibrations per hour, makes it so the watch runs smooth and accurate. A slight downfall to the ref. 16700, is the one hour hand, that is independent. Newer models feature an independent hour hand, so three time zones can be accounted for. Important if you are a pilot, not so much if you are anything else. With all of that accounted for, a solid 4/5 rating is given to the movement.

Value

Despite the long run of the GMT 16700, not many models were actually produced. That being said, this is actually a rarer watch, that is harder to find than similarly styled Rolex watches.

You can still find these models at cheaper prices than newer models from trustworthy websites, but expect that to change in the future, not that I am a fortune-teller or anything. Just due to the rarity of the piece, I can assume that prices will, in fact, raise as the watch becomes more vintage. Vintage + rare = money money money!

Can you find better GMT models around the same price? Certainly. But newer mass-produced models do not have as much history as the 16700. You get a luxurious watch, with precision craftsmanship and features that set it apart from other models. So I give the value rating, a humble 4.5/5. This is definitely on my purchase list in the near future.

Durability

A feature that should be one of the most important when deciding on a watch. You do not want a flimsy watch that will damage very easily. Not that ANY Rolex watches are not durable. This is something Rolex takes seriously. The GMT 16700 is no exception.

Solid, strong stainless steel case, a sapphire, scratch-resistant crystal, and water resistance up to 100m (this is great for a non- dive watch). So if you treat the watch well, and don’t drop it from a plane, normal wear and tear should not affect the watch. It should hold its own.

Rolex GMT 16710

What do you know? A bright red and Pepsi blue again!

Now don’t let the same color fool you. There is ALOT of upgrades on this watch as compared to the older 16700. This was one of the FIRST watches by Rolex that was able to account for up to three time zones. As insane as it sounds, it was a very important factor for pilots years ago, who relied solely on watches to tell time.

Design

Are you going with Pepsi, Coke or all black?

If you live in Atlanta like me, you must go COKE….

The design is basically identical to the 16700, with some minor changes. You still have the choice between Pepsi and all black, but with the addition of the Coke color scheme, you get another choice (or you can buy them all).

Besides the Coke coloring, the watch also features a matte bracelet that really shines and gives the watch a strong, luxurious, and wealthy look. Everything else is just about the same when it comes to design, a cyclops, black dial, 40 mm steel case, and oyster bracelet all match the 16700 model. But due to the few upgrades, the GMT 16710 pulls a victory with a 4.7/5.

Are you in love with all the color schemes, and can’t decide on just one? An interesting fact is that you can buy separate bezels, so you can have more than one watch display! This goes for both the 16700 and 16710.

Movement

If you thought the caliber 3175 was good enough, be prepared to be amazed by the caliber 3185! Not many Rolex models use this movement. So it is an unwanted movement that is crafted to perfection, hence why it is not used in every watch.

The Caliber 3185 is fitted with a 31 jewel 28,800 vibrations per hour, automatic movement. The addition of the independent hour hand and the 50 power reserve, make it even more unique. Reliability is an understatement when describing this watch. Who else can tell a friend what time it is in three different time zones on their watch (Smartphones don’t count)!

A 4.8/5 is the rating I give to the movement on this piece. What is even more amazing? Models made after 2005 use a 5186 MOVEMENT! So even more of an upgrade!

Value

Although it may have been produced more than the 16700, the GMT 16710 is a watch that I expect to grow in value as well. A main factor in the battle is all of the upgrades this watch has. So despite the fact that there may be fewer of the 16700’s out there, they are not as advanced as the 16710’s. And you have more colors you can choose from.

This model was discontinued as well. So it will soon be known as vintage as well. Like all watches, if you have this model, keep it in good condition and you won’t be disappointed with the value. 4.6/5 rating on value.

Durability

The 16710 is just as durable as the previous model. Not really any differences here. Everything pretty much mirrors the 16700. Take care of the piece and it should be looking as good as new for a very long time!

A Win Due to Advancements

As I mentioned throughout the article, there is not a lot of difference between these two models. What you do get is a more advanced piece with the 16710, which may be a selling point for many watch enthusiasts. I tend to live by the motto, if you are purchasing a luxury, high-grade watch, buy the best one.

Since these two are so similar, why not go with the upgraded model? Now, if mechanical advancements are not a big deal to you, either watch is a great choice.

Can you even see the difference?

If not, don’t feel bad. The differences are minor. The best advice I can give to anyone purchasing either one of these watches is to buy from a reliable source like Amazon. Too many counterfeits are in circulation, make sure you are purchasing the real thing!