Watches

[Gray Imp Sausage Metal]

Cue this article huh?

https://www.wsj.com/amp/articles/mens-watch-small-the-rise-of-tiny-timepieces-11661463251

I guess trends will fluctuate and yes, maybe in 22 years we’ll all be begging for 47mm dress watches, but I don’t wear small watches because it’s trending, I wear them because they fit my wrist properly!

34 - 36 was the sweet spot for a long long time, and this is why in 2022 Rolex can still sell explorers and air kings; those sizes are just CLASSIC! Even the whole vintage/ diver trend, do you know how big those watches actually were? Rado’s captain cook was considered large at 37mm!
Anyway, I’m all for just finding what works for your wrist shape/ size but in the beginning of my journey, no one really taught me about that hence why my first 2 or 3 watches were 42+
Also, specs can be deceiving, I owned a Seiko sbdc063 thrice (I kid you not) and I didn’t think it wore exceptionally large despite it being 44mm, a 44 invicta would look comical on my wrist!

[Gray Imp Sausage Metal]

Been Longines curious for a while now, recently went on a business trip to the big smoke and tried two on, will give me initial thoughts over the next few days…

[Naliga]

Which models do you have in mind?

Longines legend diver is my fave in their collection, and I dig the Zulu time GMT. They have a huge hold on the Asian market in their price bracket. Their choice of marketing over here completely turns me off of them though. "Elegance is an attitude"? I know its just a slogan lol but I like my watches tough and just cant connect with it. They have so many robust and "tough" watches in their collection too. Im just put off for stupid reasons i guess 


Side note- I finally pulled the trigger on the SPB143j. This thing is SICK. Definitely get the hype of the specs on the case and the overall presentation. Also, it lines up, which was all I thought about when I ordered it online. First "big" watch purchase here, so will be honeymooning for a bit with this one.
 

[PistachiYo]

Great looking watch with near perfect proportions! Congrats!

[Gray Imp Sausage Metal]

@Naliga congrats, I think you made a good choice; it has that 62 mas DNA (so it’s not trying to be a submariner or whatever) with modern specs, very well proportioned dimensions and a beefed up power supply. Did it come with a rubber strap too? If not you need to source one for it, when I had my 149 the bracelet almost felt too chunky for the watch…
They also look mint on nato or tropic straps ala this guy:

Drilled lug holes are also heavily underrated if you change straps as often as I do

(Will review those Longines when I get my laptop back)

[Naliga]

Thanks dudes!

Yea, it's been a great wear really. As I said before never had a watch at this price point so just enjoying all the elevated features and refinement that come with it. also for that reason, the bracelet feels great to me haha. I saw that uncle seiko option and might get it in the future though. and looking up sailcloth and rubber straps etc cus the 20mm lugs are just asking for it. Only downfall of the watch is it's running about 5 spd slow  Id rather it be 15+ seconds fast than be slow at all lol. trying to mediate it with how I position it when its off wrist. Will regulate it if needed. 

[Gray Imp Sausage Metal]

Yeah, the finishing on watches in the mid-tier range should get you stoked! I remember really liking the look of the matte bezel on mine!
Sail cloth and rubber straps will look fire, as will those expensive looking Tudor-style fabric straps and/ or Erika’s original military style straps ala

Nothing against the bracelet personally, but it was just a tad chunky/ heavy, some people like that about it though. Seriously though, drilled lug holes are so good and I don’t currently have a watch with them (although my grail features them)

[doctorkickflip]

Yeah, the finishing on watches in the mid-tier range should get you stoked! I remember really liking the look of the matte bezel on mine!
Sail cloth and rubber straps will look fire, as will those expensive looking Tudor-style fabric straps and/ or Erika’s original military style straps ala

Nothing against the bracelet personally, but it was just a tad chunky/ heavy, some people like that about it though. Seriously though, drilled lug holes are so good and I don’t currently have a watch with them (although my grail features them)

Those Erika's straps are expensive but worth it. That's what I used for diving and my wrist felt about as secure as it could be -without fixed lugs... anyway even if they come undone, they're still tight enough that you have to work to take the watch off.

[Gray Imp Sausage Metal]

@doctorkickflip yes, crazy expensive straps for what they are, but man are the comfortable. And yes, you’re never going to lose your watch with those straps.

@Naliga I'm going to keep tempting you with insta pics until you get like 15 different strap options for that bad boy:

Also, you NEED to put it on a admiral grey nato strapSTAT!

***
Recently all I’m wearing is my mid-size SMP (2252.50) on the OEM bracelet. I usually change straps like a mad man but this is THE one watch where I can just embrace it stock and never be disappointed. If I had to bounce the rest of my collection, it probably wouldn’t even phase me if I could still keep just this one!

At the same time, I’m diving (lol) into a bit of a military watch rabbit hole, will keep you posted!

[Naliga]

I'm definitely gonna go broke haha. All these straps/bracelets are killer! thanks for suggesting that strap seller that's based in the Philippines too. Been looking for a place to get legit straps as I've been disappointed too many times with Thailand's offerings and distributors. Those Artem sailcloths are pricey but might have to grab one, same with Erika's straps they look hella solid.

Also, that SMP is nice! I always thought the lack of tapering would make it heavy but It is a badass tool watch after all so works for it. Would love to get the 2531.80 at some point but been seeing the prices go higher and higher in my market.

Always had a thing for military watches too. Almost bought this Marathon with a maple leaf/Canadian flag on it but just decided it was too chunky for me and wouldn't wear it often. Love the purpose build aesthetic of military watches though.

[Gray Imp Sausage Metal]

Marathon make great watches, always wanted one of their 36mm GSARs, but other pieces always got in the way…
***
New watch alert:

Check that creamy patina goodness!

[breezer]

my watch tin......at the top is my Tudor Sub - 36mm & Moonswatch - there's a Seiko Turtle & CWC G10 hiding in there somewhere and a few others.....

[Gray Imp Sausage Metal]

my watch tin......at the top is my Tudor Sub - 36mm & Moonswatch - there's a Seiko Turtle & CWC G10 hiding in there somewhere and a few others.....

damn son, heavy first post!
36mm Tudor sub is kinda my dream watch, how do you like it?
You have impeccable taste btw!
Ps the CWC g10 is what I was looking to buy when I came across the watch I posted up there↑

[breezer]

thanks.....yeh the Tudor Sub is great.....I have quite skinny wrists so it fits fine....had it since 2014, and it just had its first service under my ownership.  Its running real good.  I have the Oyster bracelet, but I prefer the good old nato.  I used to wear the G10 skating, but then I realised a skate is more enjoyable without a watch to look at.  The moonswatch has scratched the Speedy itch..... I think a fella only really needs one good Swiss watch.....

[diplodocus]

What cheap retro looking watches do you guys like skating in?

[Gray Imp Sausage Metal]

What cheap retro looking watches do you guys like skating in?

Casio f-19 (or the steal versions), timex’s field watches or maybe Seiko 5, particularly the SNK/ SGNZ if you want something automatic?

[Naliga]

That CWC looks unreal! Great pick-up, everything you'd want from a military watch.

and damnnn that is a great collection! Tudor subs look absolute class.

I waited overnight for the moon watch and the whole release ended up being postponed where I live. So I'm definitely salty towards the whole thing lol. Still would love the mission to Jupiter sometime though.


I pretty much just skate with Quartz watches that are super cheap. Gshock ga2100.

But most recently it's just been this 38mm Victorinox field watch. Seeing how much of a beating it can take lol

[Skoldbergscones]

What cheap retro looking watches do you guys like skating in?

Timex Atlantis!

[breezer]

What cheap retro looking watches do you guys like skating in?

Casio FW91

[artskool]

Early 90's ish (?) Seiko scuba watch on a rubber dive strap. Bought it maybe 10 years ago for $90. The first watch I had since I was a little kid. I'd probably be too sad if I smashed it skating though, so might retire it from concrete.

[breezer]

That CWC looks unreal! Great pick-up, everything you'd want from a military watch.

and damnnn that is a great collection! Tudor subs look absolute class.

I waited overnight for the moon watch and the whole release ended up being postponed where I live. So I'm definitely salty towards the whole thing lol. Still would love the mission to Jupiter sometime though.


I pretty much just skate with Quartz watches that are super cheap. Gshock ga2100.

But most recently it's just been this 38mm Victorinox field watch. Seeing how much of a beating it can take lol

thanks, and I like the white dial field watch  have there

[Gray Imp Sausage Metal]

thanks.....yeh the Tudor Sub is great.....I have quite skinny wrists so it fits fine....had it since 2014, and it just had its first service under my ownership.  Its running real good.  I have the Oyster bracelet, but I prefer the good old nato.  I used to wear the G10 skating, but then I realised a skate is more enjoyable without a watch to look at.  The moonswatch has scratched the Speedy itch..... I think a fella only really needs one good Swiss watch.....

was gunna ask you about the bracelet, it has the look, but apparently it feels quite cheap due to the folded links (and hollow end links?). Personally I love the cheap 80s feel of my Tag 1000’s jubilee though so there’s a chance I’d probably dig it. I do have a whole box full of 18mm natos too and I think it really looks the part on one!

Yeah, I’d love to be a ‘one good Swiss watch’ type of guy and that’s where I want to head, but there’s just so many cool watches out there. Eventually either the Tudor 75090 or an Airking 14000 will be my main squeeze, just need to decide which watches I’ll liquidate to get there …

[Gray Imp Sausage Metal]

That CWC looks unreal! Great pick-up, everything you'd want from a military watch.

you nailed it: it is everything you want from a field watch. Check the hands and how far they spread out: it’s super legible, hand wound, has fixed lugs so your never going to lose it and the plexiglass means you can buff out scratches easily.

The moon swatch didn’t appeal to me that much so I wouldn’t worry about missing out on one, or should I say I wouldn’t worry about it unless you are buying it retail, and even then it’s pretty pricey. Have heard the plastic pushers have some issues too!

Nice victorinix, it will take the beating for sure! 

[Síota]

I started bidding on watchs on eBay...because of this thread...hahha. If i get any of them will post here.

[breezer]

Expand Quote

thanks.....yeh the Tudor Sub is great.....I have quite skinny wrists so it fits fine....had it since 2014, and it just had its first service under my ownership.  Its running real good.  I have the Oyster bracelet, but I prefer the good old nato.  I used to wear the G10 skating, but then I realised a skate is more enjoyable without a watch to look at.  The moonswatch has scratched the Speedy itch..... I think a fella only really needs one good Swiss watch.....

[close]

was gunna ask you about the bracelet, it has the look, but apparently it feels quite cheap due to the folded links (and hollow end links?). Personally I love the cheap 80s feel of my Tag 1000’s jubilee though so there’s a chance I’d probably dig it. I do have a whole box full of 18mm natos too and I think it really looks the part on one!

Yeah, I’d love to be a ‘one good Swiss watch’ type of guy and that’s where I want to head, but there’s just so many cool watches out there. Eventually either the Tudor 75090 or an Airking 14000 will be my main squeeze, just need to decide which watches I’ll liquidate to get there …

my Tudor Sub has a bracelet with folding links but I wouldn't say it looks cheap - and its in tiptop condition, no stretch and it looks the business - but I find a NATO more comfortable.  There is a jubilee strap available, which I have considered but not yet purchase. 

Re the MoonSwatch - my GF works adjacent to a Swatch boutique so she was able to keep an eye on the queue forming when a delivery was made......after a few attempts she got lucky and scored me a Mission To The Moon for retail - £207.  Now thats a lot for a plastic Swatch.........but its super fun to wear and own......and, so far, worth every penny. The dial is extremely pleasing to look at and its £5k cheaper than the real thing!  Having Omega stamped on the dial is rad.

[Síota]

Expand Quote

Expand Quote

thanks.....yeh the Tudor Sub is great.....I have quite skinny wrists so it fits fine....had it since 2014, and it just had its first service under my ownership.  Its running real good.  I have the Oyster bracelet, but I prefer the good old nato.  I used to wear the G10 skating, but then I realised a skate is more enjoyable without a watch to look at.  The moonswatch has scratched the Speedy itch..... I think a fella only really needs one good Swiss watch.....

[close]

was gunna ask you about the bracelet, it has the look, but apparently it feels quite cheap due to the folded links (and hollow end links?). Personally I love the cheap 80s feel of my Tag 1000’s jubilee though so there’s a chance I’d probably dig it. I do have a whole box full of 18mm natos too and I think it really looks the part on one!

Yeah, I’d love to be a ‘one good Swiss watch’ type of guy and that’s where I want to head, but there’s just so many cool watches out there. Eventually either the Tudor 75090 or an Airking 14000 will be my main squeeze, just need to decide which watches I’ll liquidate to get there …

[close]

my Tudor Sub has a bracelet with folding links but I wouldn't say it looks cheap - and its in tiptop condition, no stretch and it looks the business - but I find a NATO more comfortable.  There is a jubilee strap available, which I have considered but not yet purchase. 

Re the MoonSwatch - my GF works adjacent to a Swatch boutique so she was able to keep an eye on the queue forming when a delivery was made......after a few attempts she got lucky and scored me a Mission To The Moon for retail - £207.  Now thats a lot for a plastic Swatch.........but its super fun to wear and own......and, so far, worth every penny. The dial is extremely pleasing to look at and its £5k cheaper than the real thing!  Having Omega stamped on the dial is rad.

I thought they were gonna be on their online shop soon? I completely forgot to check in the Lyon swatch shop when I was there a few weeks ago. I wanna get a Mission to Mercury one but am not gonna pay over retail. The Moon one would be my second pic. 

[breezer]

 arriving when a drop is happening is nigh on impossible......but on the plus side re-sale prices are dropping....its a fun watch for sure.....

[breezer]

think there might be a theme going on here .....

[Gray Imp Sausage Metal]

think there might be a theme going on here .....

dope! your nato addiction might rival mine I'll post a pic of my nato box someday!
Don't think I was dissing the tudor 36 sub bracelet btw, I really like the feel of the folded press jubilee on my skx013. If I did get a 36 sub, I'd probably get it on the jubilee actually, although the oyster looks boss. My only qualm is that I'll probably have to sell my tudor BB36 to fund it and that thing has one of the most solid bracelets on the planet! I'm actually on a business trip today and have 3-4 watch shops I'll be hitting up while there so let's see...

Also, not trying to diss the moonswatch IF you pay RRP for it, but dudes were reselling them for $2000 in the beginning which is the dumbest shit ever because you can still pick up a used speedy reduced for that scrilla.

Still need to do a review of the logines 37mm spirit and legend diver in 36mm...

[Síota]

If forgot about them watch's on ebay from last week. Ended up with a winning bid on at Vostok 2414a from the 70's (I think) for fuck all. I am pretty sure it is mechanical. I'll post pics when it shows up.