pan Del hey I am 23 finishing my degree soon. I have always loved watch. That was a nice short story. I will save up to buy my first watch that’s paid for with my first paycheck so that it would be memorable 30 years down the road!
@@JAYJAY-ch4ik Hi Jayjay, I just personally bought myself a Seiko Save The Ocean Great White Shark timepiece yesterday. The fruit of my first job. Always wanted to buy myself one with my own money so it means something 😍
I got an automatic Orient that belonged to my grandfather, it was in my aunt's drawer for 37 years, I picked it up this week and had it on my wrist already for 3 days and still works perfectly! I'm so impressed with it, how is it even possible? Sometimes I put it on my ear and listen to the tic tak, within all the scratches it feels like somehow my grandfather is still around, hard to explain.
Back in 2005 I bought a Citizen Eco Drive watch. I never knew how good, durable and accurate these watches are. I basically keep it clean that’s all you have to do to it!!! It does not require a battery replacement,,,, it keeps itself charged up with ambient light!!! In this 18 years I have had it I have worn it every day and it simply works perfectly!!!
I have a Citizen Promaster Eco-Drive that I bought in the late eighties. I had the power cell replaced about 10 years ago, but basically it just runs without any problems. Citizen Eco-Drive is like the Honda of watches, they just work.
yes but eco drive is not the same thing as automatic mechanism. i also have 10 years old eco drive and i now have a problem with charging. it does not charge to 100%. will have to get it serviced i belive
Do Citizen Eco-Drive watches have a REchargeable battery inside like Casio with a photovoltaic cell or do they not have any? Is this a completely different technology than Casio?
Reseting the time, date and winding a mechanical watch, for me, is part of the experience of owning a watch. You have to give it atention, care for it. It is satisfying for me to check on my mechanical watches and adjust them. Such a relaxing ocupation. But each to his own.
I got my first Seiko 5 when I turned 18 years old, it was a gift from my mom. That was the year 1982. Believe it or not I still have it and it still runs, and it has never been formally serviced. Somehow the rotor came loose several years ago, so I opened it and screwed it back on. I have replaced the gasket a few times myself, it has been magnetized and demagnetized a couple of times, I’ve adjusted the beat rate also. It still runs on the original bracelet. The movement is a 7009 and the model 8930. I am also a watch hobbyist and this watch is part of the collection, so in its later years it’s been pampered and cherished more than ever. The watch has been to hell and back; it was my only watch for many years; it’s been to the beach, worn while doing mechanics on my cars, it has the scars of a thousand wars, and it still runs. May be I got lucky, but boy I tell you, if they still make them this tough you have nothing to worry about for many, many years with your mechanical watches.
neil, was thinking the same, an uncle gifted me a mechanical watch when i was a kid, probably around 2000s, it's sometimes gone untouched for 5 year periods still works fine.
My Seiko Automatic, which I bought in around 1975, has survived a lot, but has had the movement replaced once and been cleaned once. It also got a new crystal after a motorcycle accident. It still looks good.
We buy mechanical watches because of the engineering appeal. They have a soul that is not expressed in a quartz watch. They are interesting pieces of horological art. Automatic and mechanical watches represent art on the wrist. That is why we love them. We ignore their obvious problems and antique technology. We celebrate them as artistic pieces that are unappreciated in our day. Their imperfection is a tribute to those who aspired to build timepieces, limited in technology, that were the greatest in their day. The latest is not always the greatest. There are those of us who love what was the best in the past and appreciate the science of our for bearers.
@R Mack Your comment makes no sense. What does what I said have to do with anthropomorphism? And, my comment was by no stretch of the imagination, hateful.
I’ve tried a couple of automatic watches and I tire of the hassle. Resetting it when it dies and searching around for it to be serviced for less than an arm and a leg. A hassle.
David Gardner - It sounds as if you are describing a replica that technically qualifies as functional - but better for a display case than practical use. May I suggest genuine antique watches for your admiration? Most of today's mechanicals have little if anything to do with engineering artistry - similar to the functional replicas of antique firearms that can be purchased and admired - but are not seriously employed for daily use - and for valid reasons: There are modern alternatives that are simply better for the intended purpose. Not being able to manually set the day or date between the hours of 9 and 3 for fear of damaging the watch? A watch that will run down if you do not wear it for a day or two, making inconvenient time-and-date-setting a frequent ritual? A loss of accuracy in the range of plus or minus ten or twelve seconds a day? None of these are examples of marvelous watch engineering, design or mechanical artistry. Any soul these things have is the soul of the devil. There must be some other reason you like mechanicals.
My Seiko 5 from 1976 has never been serviced, keeps perfect time for a mechanical watch, and is a fantasic watch to wear still. I'm not saying that you are wrong about servicing, just giving my experience of owning a fantastic watch.
I have serviced Seiko5 watches that are more than 10 years old & have been worn continuously and never serviced. All of them show signs of movement wear and generally run like a piece of junk. Have the watch serviced-Clean, Oil, and Adjust the timing before you wear it out. It is a matter of common sense and the law of physics....when dirt gets into the oil it will become like a grinding compound & slowly but surely wear out the movement. All manufacturers of mechanical mainspring powered watches recommend routine service every 3 & no longer than 5 years. Pay me now or throw it in the trash later.
The Seiko 5 is probably the best introduction to the world of mechanical watches, and it’s been in production for a long time. It’s got tradition, toughness, and it’s super affordable. I’ve had mine for 6 years, never been serviced, has been soaked by rain and been in extreme cold many times. Never gains more than 6 seconds a day in my experience. It still looks lovely despite the beating of warehouse work and heavy outdoor use I’ve put it through. It has these fine scratches all over the crystal and bezel that give it a nice broken in look and feel. It got me into watches because it was the first expensive (relatively, no watch enthusiast will be fooled) looking and nice feeling watch I’ve owned!
Hi I'm very much interested in Seiko watches bro. I'm Begginer brother I like Seiko turtle models which model can I buy ?? I don't like servicing often..which model would you prefer ?
My dad gave me a 1980s Seiko 5 (looks very similar to your seiko 5 thats why I clicked on the video but it has a white dial and the crown is in the middle) that he bought back then. It has never been serviced, repaired, or opened. It still ticking today and it's pretty accurate. This, is the reason why we LOVE mechanical and automatic watches.
I only recently got a couple of Seiko 5s to play around with the idea of an automatic watch, but I realized pretty quickly that keeping accurate time is not really the point of an automatic (obviously you can spend the money if you really want to make that the point). It's really about appreciating the fact that these devices can turn kinetic energy (you, the wearer, moving around) into mechanical energy in the form of timekeeping. It requires no batteries to be replaced or charged, and the actual way it functions (e.g. the sweep of the second hand vs a quartz movement) is pretty cool to see.
In 2009 I bought a Citizen eco drive and it keeps perfect time, only time it needs adjusting is when there is under 31 days, but as the guy pointed out I can get exact time from android phone or tablet's . It was £63 in Argos. About 2 or 3 years ago I fell in love with another citizen but it cost £525. Sadly I have been ill and lost so much weight it needs 1 or 2 links taken out, but the time stays exactly right even though it is wrapped in kleenex and in a secure drawer, even after 6 months keeps perfect time. I always use to swear by Seiko, for many years of course you have to be active for an automatic watch to work, now I am disabled and house bound I am glad of my old Citizen eco drive. Highly recommend Citizen eco drive.
Apparently it's about £60 or so to replace the capacitor once an eco drive watch stops & you should be good to go for another 12 years or so I've got a Casio with a 10 year battery also. Alot of citizens are pretty big but there are a few in 37mm for me & mu skinny wrist. Eco drives are great 👍👍
I still have Seiko 5 that belonged to my grandpa, it is more than 30 years old. Nevere did it broke. Wouldn't trade it for any million dollars watch. It is priceless to me. And I absolutely love it, its classic, small and just beautiful...
My first automatic is a seiko 5 which I still own and wear frequently ( one made in japan) its what kicked off my interest and fascination with time piece collecting. I don't think you can go wrong with the 5...
My wife bought me an Omega Speedy in Dec 1999 for the turn of the millennium. I wear it every day since and I think I love it even more now - most people don’t understand.
If you plan to spend less than about $350 for a self winding mechanical watch, I recommend looking for one with a Seiko NH-35 or NH-36 movement. They are pretty accurate. When years go by and they need service you can buy a new movement for around $35 give or take. If you are mechanically inclined, you can buy the tools to remove the back, hands, and dial and replace it yourself.
I've had my automatic Seiko watch which my dad gave me in 1988 for my first year in college. In 2020, five years after my dad's passing, the damn watch is still going strong, Ravi Peiris M.D.
This is what newbies don't understand. Most go into the hobby because it's cool nowadays and it's a grown up thing to do but they really don't get it. And sadly, this guy fall into that category.
found my grand pas 50 year old watch the one he was showing in the start seiko 5, it was working fine , wore it for3-4 days then it stopped , sent it for servicing.
When considering buying a mechanical watch, I looked at you SNK803 review. This watch in black, met a lot of my brief. It's an honourable hobby and I admire your integrity, working to a decent, open level of critique. I'm so glad I've seen this video, because it answers those nagging questions I wasn't sure about. Addressing them with an ethic I like and common sense too, because it's not all about any one logic really, it's personal. Sound video! Will be a key video in your series! Thanks again!
Good tips for beginners. It would be neat to see a video with different Automatics on how they can gain, or lose seconds in different positions. I have an Orient Star Elegant Classic that will gain a 8-10 seconds if I'm wearing it in 24 hours or if it's laying flat. On the other hand, it loses 8-10 if I lay it on it's side. Knowing that I can keep it very accurate most all the time.
I received from my father my seiko 5 calibre 7009 from 1985 as an inheritance. This watch has worked in civil construction for over 25 years and has never stopped working with pneumatic hammers, cement, grinders, drills, 15 kg hammers, water etc. and has never been served in a watchmaker, and it still works on my wrist, any day I will give it to my son. this is the essence of a watch, accompanying us in the good and bad moments of life. and not to be in a box! Afraid of spoiling it because it's very expensive and it has diamonds and it's made of gold! this watch is priceless because of the memories it carries!, this watch cost so little and offered so much!, why? because it was made to accompany us and not to take our money. it was not meant to be art, it was meant to be respected and admired for its robustness and competence. thanks and congratulations to your channel, i wanted to see a rolex last as long as this seiko!
@@MiddleClassNaPobre I had a F91W. It lasted 13 years with original battery. It just stayed on the wrist unnoticed. I just bought another one. No need to bother with common problems of other watches. I do not care if one day it dissappears.
This was such work! Thanks for the thoughtful intro to mechanical watch ownership. These “5 things you should know” or “10 top blah blah” type videos are seldom useful but I’m so glad I watched this!
Personally, I’m a quartz guy. You can’t beat the accuracy and the convenience factor. Plus, there are some stunning quartz pieces out there that rival or outclass even the most beautiful mechanical watches.
I have 3 automatics (Omegas, Breightin) that I wear one month each in sequence. I do not use a watch winder per advice from a local Rolex authorized service center. Their rationale: why create more movement wear and tear when one can lay it down for a couple of months? Whale oil was used in the past to lubricate these movements, and it gummed up if the watch was not worn, requiring more maintenance. Today, they use synthetic oils that do not gum up.
alan wright I think that if you are interested in the watch hobby and want to know more about watches, please reference literature or videos from someone who has more knowledge on the subject. To my surprise, he used the example of servicing a watch that cost less than a hundred dollars. In all reality many automatic watches are more expensive and worth the investment of servicing! Keep in mind that if you have an automatic watch, you more likely have several watches, so the automatic is not constantly running and wearing out parts. Often times these watches will run accurately for many years before needing a service, regardless of cost!
I have Seiko 5 automatic since 1985, was HS Graduation gift and it's running just like the day it was given to me. I still wear it for many occasions, and has not let me down not even once. Zero maintenance since was given to me.
Having owned mechanical watches from Omega, Longines, etc., I can vouch for the fact that the benefits far outweigh the gripes. Of course, a simple quartz or a digital watch can tell the time, but is it the same as using a mechanical watch? I think not! Mechanical watches allow you to slow down and enjoy the process of winding the watch and hearing sound of the movement once it’s wound. It’s like being in love, you got to invest time and be involved. Just like the experience of using a ball point pen is quite different from using a fountain pen. The latter demands your time and attention, which are scarce in this world of instant gratification and disposable stuff. Mechanical watches are not for everyone. But those who own and cherish them know their value. Thanks for your perspective.
Hi Dave. Just want to say thanks for this video. It was very helpful. I’ve always owned a few quartz watches, but never explored mechanical watches until recently. I really love the history and art behind some of these watches and I will always appreciate their inherent mechanical design. However, a man needs to know his limitations. I realized finally with your video that I don’t have the level of attention or patience that a mechanical watch requires and deserves. Therefore, I’m sticking with quartz. Luckily, I found what I wanted in quartz; Laco entry level Pilot watches (both A & B dials) in 40 mm. I couldn’t be happier.
Ditto on this. I found this video hugely helpful as I used to think that mechanical watches were superior to quartz watches just by virtue of being mechanical. It sounds, instead, like people more than likely go with mechanical because of the craftsmanship and ritual. While I can appreciate this, I think I'll opt to appreciate them on other people's wrists. Thank you!
I just got my first automatic watch. I got an Orient Ray ll. I love it! So far it has been very accurate. I only take it off to shower. I know it's 200m water resist and I have showered with it on, but I prefere not to so I can clean my wrist and give it a breather. I am very happy so far with this watch and would recommend it!
Number 6- automatic watches are relatively heavier than quartz operated watches. I switched now to Citizen Echo Drve and I am enjoying it. Great video thanks
@user-pl1ki3ok6g I would never go back to quarter watches. The only good thing about them is their light weight. Automatic watches are nice but some brand make them really heavy. So shop for auto watch that is Titanium or with rubber/silicone band. Also very important to look for how long it stays running if not worn on the wrist. Some can last 48 hours while others less than that. My all time favourite is the Citizen Eco Drive from, because they last 6 months in the dark. That is insane, and last really long time. Mine has a nice bluish fabric band. My only trouble is that Citizen tend to make the majority of their models big watches larger than 43mm in diameter. So if you have big wrist you would love them. I hope that helps.
I’ve still got my Dad’s old SwissAm watch from the 70’s. I don’t wear it often, but it still works great. It’s never been serviced, but keeps time well. I think the only reason he stopped wearing it was because quartz digital watches became popular in the 80’s. They were so accurate, cheap and didn’t require winding. I have a quartz digital Casio for work, my Citizen Eco-drive and my Father’s manual wind up mechanism SwissAm. I’ll probably not buy an Automatic unless I change jobs where I can wear one frequently. My job is a TIG welder, hence the cheap Casio F-108W. I don’t mind getting it beaten up! Great advice in the post, thanks!
You hit the nail on the head- mechanical watches work just fine if you wear them every day and reset the time once a week. If you take off the watch for the weekend, it won't be running on Monday morning. My Seiko diver gained a few minutes a week- I had the watch repair guy set it fast rather than slow, which is best so you don't miss the first minutes of your fav TV show
There's no hard and fast rule with regards to when the time must be reset on a mechanical watch. In many such watches, you can keep them very accurate over the long haul by finding out how much the watch losses or gains in 24 hours, as well as the positions in which placing the watch gains or losses back darn near the same amount of time during the night (or whenever). If you take off the watch for the weekend, it won't be running on Monday morning -- unless its power reserve is greater than ~62 hours and you fully charged it up before taking it off. Though more expensive, there already exist plenty of options for a mechanical with that much power reserve.
I own a seiko 5 for about the last 15 maybe 16 yrs and i love it, my dad had one for about 35 yrs until he died if i am not wrong + or - 10 seconds for month is the standard of japan watches from seiko
Seiko 5's accuracy can be like the best of Rolex when the watch was manufactured properly and it's well cared for by the owner, but it rarely remains as accurate as being just 0.33 seconds off a day after several months, even if it gets properly regulated. If you want that level of accuracy *consistently* in mechanical watches, you must purchase a Grand Seiko Spring Drive.
Thanks for the lesson. Just ordered my first automatic watch. Went for a Seiko Presage cocktail ice blue. Mainly for the look of it. Just beginning to get interested in this hobby/collector thing. It is quite addictive.
Seiko pressage is great choice, however he is little bit more "dressy" in my opinion. Get one of these 5s (since its 4x cheaper) for that casual/every day vibe.
Every movement need to be serviced, mechanical or quartz. There is oil in watch movements, and this oil dry while the watch gets worn. Dry oil gives lot of problem and can damage the watch, like an pivot so you need to renew this oil. Don't wait the watch to stop running to service it, you service it to avoid problem like that. Believing a watch no need servicing is an error, trust me im in a watchmaker school :)
@@AldoFelt Orient is a nice watch brand, there are owned by Seiko now but they still make there own movement ( orient movement, not miyota or something like that ). Those watches are affordable, robust and gives you a decent precision. Mako and Ray for exemple got an screw-down crown for a better waterproofing but there have mineral glasses.
I've gone back to liking mechanicals and have come full swing around. Back in the early seventies, when quartz watches were new and novel, the accuracy was fascinating to me! And you didn't have cell/smart phones that kept literally atomic time. Some of the first quartz watches were phenomenally accurate. I had an early Pulsar brand that was based on a quartz crystal that vibrated at over 800,000 time a second, which is converted by dividing down circuits to one second intervals. And to top it off it had a trimmer capacitor for fast/slow adjustments. I set it to the atomic clock radio station WWV on the shortwave radio bands and after two years, I had it accurate to within one second per year!! But to keep it that accurate I had to wear it all the time due to the need to keep it a constant temperature. I was only 12 years old and had nothing better to do than to get a watch supremely accurate. Then came the newer quartz watches that flooded the market that had quartz crystals with a frequency of only about 35,000 hertz (35Khz). Those became popular and so this ruined the accuracy potential of quartz moments forever! But now I'm back to mechanical watches again due to the charm. As the video creator mentioned, you now have smart phones if you need super accurate time down to a thousandth of a second.
Am just getting into this, and looking at my first Seiko 5. Not so worried about hyper accuracy so a little daily slippage of a few seconds will be quite acceptable as my time-telling is no more demanding than "a quarter past four", rather than "16:14:58". Old school mechanicals have a charm that quartz watches and mobile phones simply don't. Thanks for your videos - nice to have someone talking about realistic, accessible horology for people with real-world budgets; I'm never going to own a Patek or an AP, and I'm fine with that.
It isnt :) My Seiko 5, which i bought for aprox 5 USD (really - i bought it from the Czech goverment...) broke. Probably the power reserve isnt OK. I have send it to service, they told me it will be bettr to change themovement (aprox 200 USD!) and i bought another Seiko 5 instead. But 30 % cheaper than the repair could have cost. Sorry for my "english"
@@shiraz1736 it isnt a fake Seiko. The price was so low, because the goverment get things from criminals or people who have died and have no childern and no one knew if the watch works or not. Its a risk. You can buy officially not just watches but also sculptures, paintings, cars, computer, houses/flats, land... But not always for such a funny price.
Good video. I have about 6-7 Seiko mechanical pieces that I run semi-regularly. My beater is a Timex Weekender, but I run whatever Seiko I feel like every so often. They’re solid pieces but I always have to set them every time I take them out. No big deal, if you’re expecting it. So that’s something to factor in. I’ve never had to adjust the time on my Timex, and a basic battery swap. So, yeah. Quartz is superior, but you buy the mechanical for the art more than anything.
I bought a Casio atomic solar digital about 15 years ago that still works and keeps great time (obviously). I think I paid around $50 for it. I don’t think you can even get the same model anymore. One of my favorites to this day. But a Seiko 5 is my daily wearing watch. 👍🏻
*Quartz movements will also wear out. Just because theres battery inside doesn't mean it will always turn on when there's a battery inside.* However, most quartz watches are cheaper than Automatic watches in the first place....so you will spend less money on quartz watches overall. I can buy 10+ quartz watches for the price of my Automatic.....
I own three, I didn’t realize I would have to service them before seeing this video. I’m hoping that won’t cost more than $150 but I still feel good in my mechanical watch. My newest watch is a hack watch, but until this video I never understood what that meant. This was a great video, thanks for the content.
Good video for newbies. Thank you. Most of my autos cost between $100 and $400. It would be easier and more cost effective to just drop a new NH36 (or the like) movement in when/if needed, which is far less often than most people think. I have a 1972 Timex Marlin that still runs well and has never been serviced. All that said, it has taken me some time and commitment to learn how to drop a new movement into a watch and that commitment I think is your whole point. Mechanical watches require a small commitment. Thanks again for another thoughtful video.
Very informative video. I’ve always worn quarts watches, and my current daily watch keeps impeccable time, so I was unaware of the inherent inaccuracies of an automatic watch. Recently I purchased a Montblanc Tradition Automatic, and when I noticed the inaccuracy after a couple days I was worried I had waisted my money. After watching this video though, I’m a lot more confident in my purchase.
Great video! I got my first ‘proper’ watch from my grandparents for my 18th birthday earlier this year - a Seiko 5 Sports (green dial). This is a really nice roundup of all the things I found out as I got used to using it daily. It’s replaced my Apple Watch as my main timekeeper, as despite the fact it’s so much less ‘useful’, it’s just a lovely thing to have on my wrist.
I have an Apple Watch too, 6th gen, have been using Apple Watches since they first came out. Recently started feeling like I should get a “real watch” as I hit 20 this year. Was it a difficult transition to go from an Apple Watch back to a traditional clock faced watch? And would you recommend it?
I was debating on whether to get a quartz or automatic. Ended up getting a beautiful longine dolcevita quartz. One of the things that made me think about getting an automatic was I would pass it down. Then my husband said, don't assume someone would want it and that pretty much settled that for me. I understand the engineering appeal for some. I just want a well made, good looking watch and it ended up being a quartz..
I have been in situations where accurate time keeping is of paramount importance. That’s why I mostly trust quartz watches. The extensive emphasis placed on the accuracy of really expensive mechanical watches is like comparing the best chess player to the latest version of the deep blue computer.
Probably the only mechanical watch I'd trust in situations where accurate time keeping is essential is Grand Seiko's Spring Drive (though granted many don't consider it a mechanical). OTOH, any quartz like Casio's F-91W or worse (such as knock-offs like 'Kenko') shouldn't be trusted over the long haul (more than 2 weeks) without time adjustment either.
Hugely helpful! I have done a bit of research and took the plunge on a seiko 5. Now discontinued to make way for new models. One thing I've noticed is that I still have to adjust the time on my casio and timex. I know they're cheap. And they've been my daily beaters. But I think with the 'automatic' ill be better at making a ritual of each week adjusting rather than finding out im 5 minutes behind after a while of not checking the battery watches. Looked at smart watches and just don't want to be bothered at this point for what they're worth
For setting the time on a watch without hacking or winding (like Seiko 5) I found that when you advance the minute hand it typically jumpstarts the watch with whatever little energy might still be stored. So I typically sync the seconds hand that way and then shake the watch a bit to store more energy in the mainspring. After winding it a bit I set the time
Excellent video, thank you. I change my watches every few days, so accuracy doesn’t bother me that much. I own mostly mechanical watches, but a fair number of quartz as well. I love them all!
Although quartz watches make up the majority of the watches in my collection, I am very fond of mechanicals. The three that I have are vintage pieces, and I love the second hand sweep and their idiosyncrasies. It's true that they are a bit of a hassle but I think everyone interested in watches should have at least one mechanical. They're really cool.
If we are being honest, we don't buy mechanical watches for their accuracy (there are many better options). I have a sufficiently large collection of vintage mechanical watches that I have learned to service them myself although it should be pointed out that with modern synthetic lubricants, such as Moebius, servicing should not be necessary more than once a decade, at most.
True. The accuracy is my least concern when it comes to mechanicals. My first mechanical watch was Swatch Irony Skeleton bought on 1999 in my early 20s, since then I have collected many of them, say Seiko, Mido, some rare Citizens (since they focus mainly on the Eco-Drive). I haven't learned how to service them myself, I would really like to. I have found that the places I sent them for service, the people are poorly skilled. One of those places, returned my Seiko 5 with the minute hand full of lubricant, really? And the other place misaligned the hour hand, when the minute hand points at 12, the hour hand is slightly forward for about 10 minutes.
@@echandirohrmoser3183 Misalignments, and scratches are the worst part of servicing. I went to get a Caravelle watch battery put in, only to get it scratch to the point of looking slightly damaged. I'm sorry about your hour hand misalignment.
Absolutely. Will have to make another video covering why I think mechanical watches are worth the extra effort and drawbacks compared to quartz watches.
That is true. At their best, mechanical watches are works of engineering art. If you can do a full service on a mechanical watch, you have far more skill, not to mention better eyesight and steadier hands than I do. The one I'm saving for currently should be easily serviced by any competent watchmaker as it's ETA based, but I'll still expect that to run $200-$300 when it eventually becomes necessary.
Engineering art is an excellent description. Mechanical watches appeal to me at a level far deeper than merely being a device to tell the time with. When I have had to strip down a movement (something I try to avoid where possible), I just marvel at the skill and precision involved in their making. Even a cheap, basic movement is fascinating at 20x magnification.
I was surprised you didn’t mention setting the hands to say 6 o’clock when setting the date as one can damage the system setting date closer to 12:00. Also sw200 and eta 2824 movements can be damaged by hand winding too often or too aggressively. Thanks
@@realbigbear the keyless work starts to slip. This is very common according to my watch maker and i have experienced it myself i would recommend slow use of manual winding on these movements.
Mechanical or Automatic watches has universe of its own, they are timepiece. Its the handcraft amd art that you want to spend some money to own one. What's important is how you feel when you wear them, we all have smart phones and we rely the time on them.
@@bestopinion9257 nope not really because analogue quartz only triggered the day date complications right on 23:59~00:00 other than that you may rest assured👍
Yeah the accuracy of mechanical watches doesn't bother me so much. The most relevant consequence is that you'll need to be resetting the time periodically to make sure it's not too far off.
7. Do NOT set the time backward. Especially never when your hour hand is anywhere between 9 and 3. Again this is, like @R Mack wrote in another comment, to avoid breaking the date change mechanics which is made to run in one direction only (of course if your watch is a no date one there isn't this problem).
Great video! Especially the point about hacking and hand winding. Especially hand-winding was a feature I, foolishly, assumed was standard on an automatic watch.
If I want to know the time exactly with seconds, I take a look at my phone. And tbh I never even once needed the time down to the seconds.... idc if it’s off by 5 sec... life is already busy enough..
As a computer consultant I do have to know times to a second precision. There are lots of systems that have maintenance windows and we cannot take the system offline before the time allowed by contract, or else we have to pay compensation to our clients. Of course in these occasions I do not use my clock or my cell phone, I just use the computer time.
IMO, Quartz is better suited for the common man, who lead busy weekdays and weekends, trying to master the work-life balance, and for whom accurate time really matters. Automatics are more suited for the laid-back.
I bought an automatic dress watch. I found it time consuming in the morning to fix the time after my 2-day weekly offs. It felt like I bought a master whom I am serving. I got fed up with it. Now I rely only on my Casio Edifice. It will serve me prompt for a decade. I intend to get another Casio, this time a G-shock for my rougher tasks.
Great introduction to auto/mechanical watches showing the pros and cons. I have long been a collector of watches both mechanical and quartz pieces. I have around 30 pieces at present. The best long term prospect for me is a quartz solar powered watch. My Citizen eco drive, which is now 18 years old is still very accurate (2-3 seconds per month) and has never been serviced. My Rolex DJ is -12 seconds per month and has cost me £1800 in service costs over the same period. As and instrument for telling the time the eco drive is a no brainer but I still love the Rolex.
Well I have invested in mechanical watches a long time ago and I have several of them all automatics, I am pleased with every single one of them. Quality watches would require a service every 5 years roughly and the price of it depends on the type of watch but even the one that has increased in value 25 times its original price I paid for, the service is about 180 USD. I have had that watch since 1988. I had it serviced 6 times which is not even the price I have paid for and it is extremely far from its actual speculated value. When you buy such watches you are buying a piece of engineering and architecture and if you choose well or are lucky they do get pricey with time for example the watch I was referring to is the nicknamed Omega speedmaster Holy Grail ref ST 376.0822 Calibre 1045, also I have an old Rolex Pepsi GMT II Caliber 16750 that has more than doubled in value and several others Breitling, Jaeger LeCoultre... Again if you can afford it, do not choose just any watch you should put a bit of thinking because at the end the sentimental value is much more than the rest and yes I plan to passing it on... Watches is part of my culture being a Swiss individual...😉
Great video! I wish I watched it 20 years ago when i bought my first mechanical watch.. Omega Seamaster. It costs about $1,000+ every 5 years for servicing it; i wait till the watch doesn’t work, or keeps terrible time. But the watch looks very nice.
Wow makes me glad I own a super clone... Fake yes but definitely good omega seamaster 300 professional.. Had for 6 years worn daily and never had a problem the irony hey
I am wearing a zenith and an omega from my grandfather from 50s / 60s, never have been serviced and are working perfectly, no more than +-20s/30s a day. Must be something with the oil they put nowadays cause mines are fine.
Denis Muthuon they’re definitely doing something wrong... b/c I had my watch. Serviced three times since I brought it in year 2000. And it isn’t working again, and will be sending it for a service soon. And I hardly wore it between now and the last time serviced.
@@chrisp5526 I know, and am certain of it, last time, something like 6 month ago the AD i went to in Lyon looked at my omega and insisted in servicing it, something I refused totaly, telling him what I just metion above, it works fine and never had been serviced for more than 50 years, he kept on insisting, I tend to wonder if they don't do something to make sure you have to come back regularly and pay the recuring premium fees. The thing is, my great gran father was a watch/clock maker, my grand father was a clock maker and have been tough by him to build clocks, you know the big one on the walls not watches, but still our mechanism don't need anything to run and clearly no service every 2 to 3 years. I understand watch are running at a much hightmer rate and are smaller mechanical components but still, once regulated you shouldn't need to reservice them never, not mentioning the 'lubricants', why put jewels and a rubis hanker then? The sole purpose of jewels and rubis is to reduce friction and abrasion of the components to their minimum....
Denis Muthuon omega now uses a coaxle movement... supposed to last longer before needing service. They must have learned their watches weren’t lasting. And I only get my serviced by Omega, so not a second party job.
My wife doesn't like me setting the time everytime I put on a mechanical watch... which I usually do right before heading out the door when we're supposed to be somewhere...
Great tips, I have a mix of quartz and mechanical watches, which I like equally. Quartz are great if you are in a hurry, or watches like my Protrek which serve a specific purpose for me. I really enjoy mechanical watches too, I have a couple of tips for mechanicals I can add. 1- if the watch has a day or date function, you shouldn’t change it from 9:00pm to 3:00am, because the quick set component of the watch is starting to work at that time, and you don’t want to force it. Marc at Long Island Watch has a great video on this called “ adjusting Mechanical watch day/date”. Worth checking it out. 2- I have Vostok without a date complications, which is great. Vostok date complications are a bit of a pain to set, so if you have a few watches and don’t wear it all the time, I would recommend a Vostok without the date. Thanks for the video, and the great tips. 👍
I’ve been in the hobby for about two hours and now I own four automatic watches. A Seiko SNK809, a Seiko SNXS79, a Seiko SNKL23 and a Loreo Subbie. But then again I’m trying to move past a failed relationship 😂
@Jochem lol that's kinda relatable. A failed relationship led me into buying two watches (retail therapy, as someone above mentioned) and eventually into the hobby seriously.
Thanks -- that was a nice overview. I'm pretty new to the hobby, too. I like a lot of the aspects of a mechanical watch (aesthetics, craftsmanship etc) but it took me getting to ...a certain age, let's say.....that I'm more relaxed about precision than I used to be, if not wholly. So, I've got a few mechanical (Orient, Timex now) watches and some solar watches for when I feel the need for more accuracy.
I like having a good mix of mechanical and quartz watches. It's nice to have options. Usually I tend to have a stronger attachment to my mechanical pieces, but often times out of sheer practicality I'll find myself wearing my quartz watches more frequently.
Really cool video bro, super interesting and definitely informative. My fav watch is my Seiko 5 SNK809, not that I have too many anyway. Just needed another strap though :)
Mechanical watches have other issues. They are relatively delicate - you're not supposed to wear them when they might encounter impacts, such as playing golf. Most mechanical watches can be affected by magnetism.
think about it..... quartz has been around since the 70's.... before that all watches were mechanical.... used in all ctivities.... golf... war etc..... they are not as fragile as you think.... i have worn an SKX for many years off road motorcycling and mountain biking ....no issues and in 10 years never serviced....
@@rockysrider5352 Exactly, and often musicians are watch nuts, and look to be wearing some expensive stuff while thrashing away on their guitars, and many seem to wear them on the right/strumming hand as well, for whatever reason ua-cam.com/video/TMR_3BJCmh8/v-deo.html
Bani Niba: That would depend on the watch type. I have a fondness for dive watches which are incredibly robust and take a beating. I have golfed, played softball, mountain biked all while wearing a mechanical dive watch without issue. Dive watches are designed to take abused and are ideal for any kind of rugged activity.
I have no explanation. It's one of those rare miraculous occurrences. I've heard of some guys getting a watch and it needing service after two years. Some watches are bound to perform extremely well and others will be lemons. But I suspect most will fall into that 10 year range of needing servicing.
he can't explain, because he's an ignorant trying to make a buck with this trash talk. You shoul NEVER shake a watch to start the movement!!!! agghhhh👎💨
Actually its recommended to service when there's a loss or gain in time more than usual which can be anywhere from 10 to almost 20 years inbetwern services and a service shouldn't cost more than $100 for any watch minus replacing parts, I've had antique pocket watches that haven't been touched in over 50 years still keep perfect time and run for 48 hours stagnant trouble free. I paid $100 for my seiko 5 watch and the dat is needs serviced is the day I'll have it done, why? Because its a damn good watch thats served its purpose and itll continue doing its job. Spend 100 on a watch once every 10 years or keep the one you love for the same price or cheaper. In the long run keeping pa watch you like regardless of initial price is worth more than replacing it
In the real world, solar watches are best all rounder. I've had my Citizen diver 6yrs now & only mess with it when DST changes. Lume is bright as my Seiko auto & no issues. Also got an older solar Casio & no probs. Always accurate & very practical. Bought a 2nd Citizen diver when they had them on sale last year for $120 ($220 now!).
I bought a seiko5 in 1985. It cost me the half week payment. After 34 years works good. Its the first watch i bought with the payment of my first work
pan Del hey I am 23 finishing my degree soon. I have always loved watch. That was a nice short story. I will save up to buy my first watch that’s paid for with my first paycheck so that it would be memorable 30 years down the road!
@@JAYJAY-ch4ik Hi Jayjay, I just personally bought myself a Seiko Save The Ocean Great White Shark timepiece yesterday. The fruit of my first job. Always wanted to buy myself one with my own money so it means something 😍
So did it work for 34 yrs without maintenance?
@@redblocks8821 of course not . 3 times
@@pandel6093 did maintenance cost more than the watch?
I got an automatic Orient that belonged to my grandfather, it was in my aunt's drawer for 37 years, I picked it up this week and had it on my wrist already for 3 days and still works perfectly! I'm so impressed with it, how is it even possible? Sometimes I put it on my ear and listen to the tic tak, within all the scratches it feels like somehow my grandfather is still around, hard to explain.
Back in 2005 I bought a Citizen Eco Drive watch. I never knew how good, durable and accurate these watches are. I basically keep it clean that’s all you have to do to it!!! It does not require a battery replacement,,,, it keeps itself charged up with ambient light!!! In this 18 years I have had it I have worn it every day and it simply works perfectly!!!
They are great. I have 2, one with the E610 and another with the B877. They're like old Toyotas 😂
I have a Citizen Promaster Eco-Drive that I bought in the late eighties. I had the power cell replaced about 10 years ago, but basically it just runs without any problems. Citizen Eco-Drive is like the Honda of watches, they just work.
yes but eco drive is not the same thing as automatic mechanism. i also have 10 years old eco drive and i now have a problem with charging. it does not charge to 100%. will have to get it serviced i belive
Do Citizen Eco-Drive watches have a REchargeable battery inside like Casio with a photovoltaic cell or do they not have any? Is this a completely different technology than Casio?
Love my Citizen Eco Drive Promaster Diver with the E168. It's an awesome watch.
Reseting the time, date and winding a mechanical watch, for me, is part of the experience of owning a watch. You have to give it atention, care for it. It is satisfying for me to check on my mechanical watches and adjust them. Such a relaxing ocupation. But each to his own.
Very good
This totally changed my opinion about going for a smartwatch in the current digital age! ❤
I was convinced to not go for an automatic one but your comment changed my mind. Beautifully explained.
@@sohinimajumder8829 ♥️
I got my first Seiko 5 when I turned 18 years old, it was a gift from my mom. That was the year 1982. Believe it or not I still have it and it still runs, and it has never been formally serviced. Somehow the rotor came loose several years ago, so I opened it and screwed it back on. I have replaced the gasket a few times myself, it has been magnetized and demagnetized a couple of times, I’ve adjusted the beat rate also. It still runs on the original bracelet. The movement is a 7009 and the model 8930. I am also a watch hobbyist and this watch is part of the collection, so in its later years it’s been pampered and cherished more than ever. The watch has been to hell and back; it was my only watch for many years; it’s been to the beach, worn while doing mechanics on my cars, it has the scars of a thousand wars, and it still runs. May be I got lucky, but boy I tell you, if they still make them this tough you have nothing to worry about for many, many years with your mechanical watches.
Bought a Seiko 5 back in 1975, it has never been serviced, but still works perfectly!
Started working in 1975, still working today . . .
Something tells me your watch never met Margaret Thatcher.
Maggie would have put your watch out of work straight away. Probably by looking at it.
@@nobbynoris she would have only done that if the watch was slow, unproductive, and telling time in a unit that was no longer viable. .
neil, was thinking the same, an uncle gifted me a mechanical watch when i was a kid, probably around 2000s, it's sometimes gone untouched for 5 year periods still works fine.
My Seiko Automatic, which I bought in around 1975, has survived a lot, but has had the movement replaced once and been cleaned once. It also got a new crystal after a motorcycle accident. It still looks good.
We buy mechanical watches because of the engineering appeal. They have a soul that is not expressed in a quartz watch. They are interesting pieces of horological art. Automatic and mechanical watches represent art on the wrist. That is why we love them. We ignore their obvious problems and antique technology. We celebrate them as artistic pieces that are unappreciated in our day. Their imperfection is a tribute to those who aspired to build timepieces, limited in technology, that were the greatest in their day. The latest is not always the greatest. There are those of us who love what was the best in the past and appreciate the science of our for bearers.
Watches don't have a soul.
I hate it when people say that.
@R Mack Your comment makes no sense. What does what I said have to do with anthropomorphism? And, my comment was by no stretch of the imagination, hateful.
I’ve tried a couple of automatic watches and I tire of the hassle. Resetting it when it dies and searching around for it to be serviced for less than an arm and a leg. A hassle.
This is also a reason why I drive a car with a manual transmission. They are not necessarily faster or better, but they are more involving.
David Gardner - It sounds as if you are describing a replica that technically qualifies as functional - but better for a display case than practical use. May I suggest genuine antique watches for your admiration? Most of today's mechanicals have little if anything to do with engineering artistry - similar to the functional replicas of antique firearms that can be purchased and admired - but are not seriously employed for daily use - and for valid reasons: There are modern alternatives that are simply better for the intended purpose. Not being able to manually set the day or date between the hours of 9 and 3 for fear of damaging the watch? A watch that will run down if you do not wear it for a day or two, making inconvenient time-and-date-setting a frequent ritual? A loss of accuracy in the range of plus or minus ten or twelve seconds a day? None of these are examples of marvelous watch engineering, design or mechanical artistry. Any soul these things have is the soul of the devil. There must be some other reason you like mechanicals.
My Seiko 5 from 1976 has never been serviced, keeps perfect time for a mechanical watch, and is a fantasic watch to wear still. I'm not saying that you are wrong about servicing, just giving my experience of owning a fantastic watch.
I have my dad's watch. Seiko 5 manufactured February 1974. Still works without a service 🤩
I have serviced Seiko5 watches that are more than 10 years old & have been worn continuously and never serviced. All of them show signs of movement wear and generally run like a piece of junk. Have the watch serviced-Clean, Oil, and Adjust the timing before you wear it out. It is a matter of common sense and the law of physics....when dirt gets into the oil it will become like a grinding compound & slowly but surely wear out the movement. All manufacturers of mechanical mainspring powered watches recommend routine service every 3 & no longer than 5 years. Pay me now or throw it in the trash later.
I agree with you but I don't use it and it's in the drawer. Someday I might service it.
@@davidcooper1201 maybe I'll get it serviced somewhere else, you're definitely a money grabber.
The Seiko 5 is probably the best introduction to the world of mechanical watches, and it’s been in production for a long time. It’s got tradition, toughness, and it’s super affordable. I’ve had mine for 6 years, never been serviced, has been soaked by rain and been in extreme cold many times. Never gains more than 6 seconds a day in my experience. It still looks lovely despite the beating of warehouse work and heavy outdoor use I’ve put it through. It has these fine scratches all over the crystal and bezel that give it a nice broken in look and feel. It got me into watches because it was the first expensive (relatively, no watch enthusiast will be fooled) looking and nice feeling watch I’ve owned!
Hi I'm very much interested in Seiko watches bro. I'm Begginer brother I like Seiko turtle models which model can I buy ?? I don't like servicing often..which model would you prefer ?
i bought the seiko sports 5, go with that one it's amazing
@@fero___3005 I own a Rolex and an Omega, just bought the PADI Turtle SRPE99 and I absolutely LOVE it! Highly recommended.
My dad gave me a 1980s Seiko 5 (looks very similar to your seiko 5 thats why I clicked on the video but it has a white dial and the crown is in the middle) that he bought back then. It has never been serviced, repaired, or opened. It still ticking today and it's pretty accurate. This, is the reason why we LOVE mechanical and automatic watches.
I only recently got a couple of Seiko 5s to play around with the idea of an automatic watch, but I realized pretty quickly that keeping accurate time is not really the point of an automatic (obviously you can spend the money if you really want to make that the point). It's really about appreciating the fact that these devices can turn kinetic energy (you, the wearer, moving around) into mechanical energy in the form of timekeeping. It requires no batteries to be replaced or charged, and the actual way it functions (e.g. the sweep of the second hand vs a quartz movement) is pretty cool to see.
I'm wearing my fathers Seiko 5 and he bought it 41 years ago and it works perfectly
In 2009 I bought a Citizen eco drive and it keeps perfect time, only time it needs adjusting is when there is under 31 days, but as the guy pointed out I can get exact time from android phone or tablet's . It was £63 in Argos. About 2 or 3 years ago I fell in love with another citizen but it cost £525. Sadly I have been ill and lost so much weight it needs 1 or 2 links taken out, but the time stays exactly right even though it is wrapped in kleenex and in a secure drawer, even after 6 months keeps perfect time. I always use to swear by Seiko, for many years of course you have to be active for an automatic watch to work, now I am disabled and house bound I am glad of my old Citizen eco drive. Highly recommend Citizen eco drive.
Apparently it's about £60 or so to replace the capacitor once an eco drive watch stops & you should be good to go for another 12 years or so
I've got a Casio with a 10 year battery also.
Alot of citizens are pretty big but there are a few in 37mm for me & mu skinny wrist. Eco drives are great 👍👍
citizens watch very very underrated watches
I still have Seiko 5 that belonged to my grandpa, it is more than 30 years old. Nevere did it broke. Wouldn't trade it for any million dollars watch. It is priceless to me. And I absolutely love it, its classic, small and just beautiful...
That's awesome! I bet it's a beautiful watch..and really nice that it was handed down in your fam
I have had that very same Seiko 5 watch as my daily driver for over 10 years and it's still working perfectly. Never had it serviced.
My first automatic is a seiko 5 which I still own and wear frequently ( one made in japan) its what kicked off my interest and fascination with time piece collecting. I don't think you can go wrong with the 5...
I owned my automatic watch since 3 weeks now and I can confirm he’s right with every point. But these are the things I absolutely love about the watch
Owning a watch for 3 weeks allows you to confirm that it requires maintenance after 5 years?
My wife bought me an Omega Speedy in Dec 1999 for the turn of the millennium. I wear it every day since and I think I love it even more now - most people don’t understand.
I've had my seiko 5 for 15 years and it's still working fine
If you plan to spend less than about $350 for a self winding mechanical watch, I recommend looking for one with a Seiko NH-35 or NH-36 movement. They are pretty accurate. When years go by and they need service you can buy a new movement for around $35 give or take. If you are mechanically inclined, you can buy the tools to remove the back, hands, and dial and replace it yourself.
I've had my automatic Seiko watch which my dad gave me in 1988 for my first year in college. In 2020, five years after my dad's passing, the damn watch is still going strong,
Ravi Peiris M.D.
I don't mind setting a time every time I wear mechanical watches. in fact I enjoy it. It's part of hobby... of course because I love mechanical watch
I find it somewhat relaxing sometimes.
I am obsessed with getting the hands in perfect sync ;)
This is what newbies don't understand. Most go into the hobby because it's cool nowadays and it's a grown up thing to do but they really don't get it. And sadly, this guy fall into that category.
@@hopiamongo8119 Everybody is entitled to an opinion I guess
👍
found my grand pas 50 year old watch the one he was showing in the start seiko 5, it was working fine , wore it for3-4 days then it stopped , sent it for servicing.
When considering buying a mechanical watch, I looked at you SNK803 review. This watch in black, met a lot of my brief. It's an honourable hobby and I admire your integrity, working to a decent, open level of critique.
I'm so glad I've seen this video, because it answers those nagging questions I wasn't sure about. Addressing them with an ethic I like and common sense too, because it's not all about any one logic really, it's personal.
Sound video! Will be a key video in your series! Thanks again!
Good tips for beginners. It would be neat to see a video with different Automatics on how they can gain, or lose seconds in different positions. I have an Orient Star Elegant Classic that will gain a 8-10 seconds if I'm wearing it in 24 hours or if it's laying flat. On the other hand, it loses 8-10 if I lay it on it's side. Knowing that I can keep it very accurate most all the time.
I received from my father my seiko 5 calibre 7009 from 1985 as an inheritance. This watch has worked in civil construction for over 25 years and has never stopped working with pneumatic hammers, cement, grinders, drills, 15 kg hammers, water etc. and has never been served in a watchmaker, and it still works on my wrist, any day I will give it to my son. this is the essence of a watch, accompanying us in the good and bad moments of life. and not to be in a box! Afraid of spoiling it because it's very expensive and it has diamonds and it's made of gold! this watch is priceless because of the memories it carries!, this watch cost so little and offered so much!, why? because it was made to accompany us and not to take our money. it was not meant to be art, it was meant to be respected and admired for its robustness and competence. thanks and congratulations to your channel, i wanted to see a rolex last as long as this seiko!
Buy seiko 5 .
Buy a new one 10 years later instead of getting it serviced for more money. Stonks
New Seiko's are starting to have issues and they're not cheap anymore
after 10yrs it will hold sentimental value... because most watch dont lastcthat long...
@@MiddleClassNaPobre I had a F91W. It lasted 13 years with original battery. It just stayed on the wrist unnoticed. I just bought another one. No need to bother with common problems of other watches. I do not care if one day it dissappears.
Finally, some common sense. Honestly, a watch is only a convenience at this point, so you don't have to take your phone out of your pocket.
STONKS ARE DOWN
This was such work! Thanks for the thoughtful intro to mechanical watch ownership. These “5 things you should know” or “10 top blah blah” type videos are seldom useful but I’m so glad I watched this!
Had my Air King 26 years and its had no maintenance, works a treat.
Personally, I’m a quartz guy. You can’t beat the accuracy and the convenience factor. Plus, there are some stunning quartz pieces out there that rival or outclass even the most beautiful mechanical watches.
I have 3 automatics (Omegas, Breightin) that I wear one month each in sequence. I do not use a watch winder per advice from a local Rolex authorized service center. Their rationale: why create more movement wear and tear when one can lay it down for a couple of months? Whale oil was used in the past to lubricate these movements, and it gummed up if the watch was not worn, requiring more maintenance. Today, they use synthetic oils that do not gum up.
Nice to see someone take the time and effort to explain some basics in a simple straightforward manner.
Merry Xmas Dave.
Thanks Alan, Merry Christmas!
alan wright I think that if you are interested in the watch hobby and want to know more about watches, please reference literature or videos from someone who has more knowledge on the subject. To my surprise, he used the example of servicing a watch that cost less than a hundred dollars. In all reality many automatic watches are more expensive and worth the investment of servicing! Keep in mind that if you have an automatic watch, you more likely have several watches, so the automatic is not constantly running and wearing out parts. Often times these watches will run accurately for many years before needing a service, regardless of cost!
I have a Jaeger Lecoultre from 2004. I wear it everyday. Still running perfect without service and not a minute has been off all these years.
I have Seiko 5 automatic since 1985, was HS Graduation gift and it's running just like the day it was given to me. I still wear it for many occasions, and has not let me down not even once. Zero maintenance since was given to me.
Having owned mechanical watches from Omega, Longines, etc., I can vouch for the fact that the benefits far outweigh the gripes. Of course, a simple quartz or a digital watch can tell the time, but is it the same as using a mechanical watch? I think not! Mechanical watches allow you to slow down and enjoy the process of winding the watch and hearing sound of the movement once it’s wound. It’s like being in love, you got to invest time and be involved. Just like the experience of using a ball point pen is quite different from using a fountain pen. The latter demands your time and attention, which are scarce in this world of instant gratification and disposable stuff. Mechanical watches are not for everyone. But those who own and cherish them know their value. Thanks for your perspective.
Perfect!!!
Hi Dave. Just want to say thanks for this video. It was very helpful. I’ve always owned a few quartz watches, but never explored mechanical watches until recently. I really love the history and art behind some of these watches and I will always appreciate their inherent mechanical design. However, a man needs to know his limitations. I realized finally with your video that I don’t have the level of attention or patience that a mechanical watch requires and deserves. Therefore, I’m sticking with quartz. Luckily, I found what I wanted in quartz; Laco entry level Pilot watches (both A & B dials) in 40 mm. I couldn’t be happier.
Ditto on this. I found this video hugely helpful as I used to think that mechanical watches were superior to quartz watches just by virtue of being mechanical. It sounds, instead, like people more than likely go with mechanical because of the craftsmanship and ritual. While I can appreciate this, I think I'll opt to appreciate them on other people's wrists. Thank you!
There is a jeweler in my town with a watch maker full time on staff, and I can get my mechanical watches serviced there for $75.
I just got my first automatic watch. I got an Orient Ray ll. I love it! So far it has been very accurate. I only take it off to shower. I know it's 200m water resist and I have showered with it on, but I prefere not to so I can clean my wrist and give it a breather. I am very happy so far with this watch and would recommend it!
Number 6- automatic watches are relatively heavier than quartz operated watches.
I switched now to Citizen Echo Drve and I am enjoying it.
Great video thanks
@user-pl1ki3ok6g I would never go back to quarter watches. The only good thing about them is their light weight.
Automatic watches are nice but some brand make them really heavy. So shop for auto watch that is Titanium or with rubber/silicone band. Also very important to look for how long it stays running if not worn on the wrist. Some can last 48 hours while others less than that.
My all time favourite is the Citizen Eco Drive from, because they last 6 months in the dark. That is insane, and last really long time. Mine has a nice bluish fabric band. My only trouble is that Citizen tend to make the majority of their models big watches larger than 43mm in diameter. So if you have big wrist you would love them.
I hope that helps.
I’ve still got my Dad’s old SwissAm watch from the 70’s. I don’t wear it often, but it still works great. It’s never been serviced, but keeps time well. I think the only reason he stopped wearing it was because quartz digital watches became popular in the 80’s. They were so accurate, cheap and didn’t require winding. I have a quartz digital Casio for work, my Citizen Eco-drive and my Father’s manual wind up mechanism SwissAm. I’ll probably not buy an Automatic unless I change jobs where I can wear one frequently. My job is a TIG welder, hence the cheap Casio F-108W. I don’t mind getting it beaten up! Great advice in the post, thanks!
You hit the nail on the head- mechanical watches work just fine if you wear them every day and reset the time once a week. If you take off the watch for the weekend, it won't be running on Monday morning. My Seiko diver gained a few minutes a week- I had the watch repair guy set it fast rather than slow, which is best so you don't miss the first minutes of your fav TV show
There's no hard and fast rule with regards to when the time must be reset on a mechanical watch. In many such watches, you can keep them very accurate over the long haul by finding out how much the watch losses or gains in 24 hours, as well as the positions in which placing the watch gains or losses back darn near the same amount of time during the night (or whenever).
If you take off the watch for the weekend, it won't be running on Monday morning -- unless its power reserve is greater than ~62 hours and you fully charged it up before taking it off. Though more expensive, there already exist plenty of options for a mechanical with that much power reserve.
I own a seiko 5 for about the last 15 maybe 16 yrs and i love it, my dad had one for about 35 yrs until he died if i am not wrong + or - 10 seconds for month is the standard of japan watches from seiko
Seiko 5's accuracy can be like the best of Rolex when the watch was manufactured properly and it's well cared for by the owner, but it rarely remains as accurate as being just 0.33 seconds off a day after several months, even if it gets properly regulated. If you want that level of accuracy *consistently* in mechanical watches, you must purchase a Grand Seiko Spring Drive.
Thanks for the lesson. Just ordered my first automatic watch. Went for a Seiko Presage cocktail ice blue. Mainly for the look of it. Just beginning to get interested in this hobby/collector thing. It is quite addictive.
It won't be your last, my friend 😁
How many watches do you have now
ditto on the last question
Seiko pressage is great choice, however he is little bit more "dressy" in my opinion. Get one of these 5s (since its 4x cheaper) for that casual/every day vibe.
The 7S26 Seiko Movement is very robust and it easily runs for 20 years or more. So no need to service it.
Yeah, if it ever had major issues I’d just throw it out and pop in a new one considering you can probably find a new one for around 50 bucks.
That's what I've heard. Hopefully it will hold true!
What about orient
Every movement need to be serviced, mechanical or quartz. There is oil in watch movements, and this oil dry while the watch gets worn. Dry oil gives lot of problem and can damage the watch, like an pivot so you need to renew this oil. Don't wait the watch to stop running to service it, you service it to avoid problem like that.
Believing a watch no need servicing is an error, trust me im in a watchmaker school :)
@@AldoFelt Orient is a nice watch brand, there are owned by Seiko now but they still make there own movement ( orient movement, not miyota or something like that ). Those watches are affordable, robust and gives you a decent precision. Mako and Ray for exemple got an screw-down crown for a better waterproofing but there have mineral glasses.
I've gone back to liking mechanicals and have come full swing around. Back in the early seventies, when quartz watches were new and novel, the accuracy was fascinating to me! And you didn't have cell/smart phones that kept literally atomic time. Some of the first quartz watches were phenomenally accurate. I had an early Pulsar brand that was based on a quartz crystal that vibrated at over 800,000 time a second, which is converted by dividing down circuits to one second intervals. And to top it off it had a trimmer capacitor for fast/slow adjustments. I set it to the atomic clock radio station WWV on the shortwave radio bands and after two years, I had it accurate to within one second per year!! But to keep it that accurate I had to wear it all the time due to the need to keep it a constant temperature. I was only 12 years old and had nothing better to do than to get a watch supremely accurate. Then came the newer quartz watches that flooded the market that had quartz crystals with a frequency of only about 35,000 hertz (35Khz). Those became popular and so this ruined the accuracy potential of quartz moments forever! But now I'm back to mechanical watches again due to the charm. As the video creator mentioned, you now have smart phones if you need super accurate time down to a thousandth of a second.
Just started sniffing around ebay for a cheap (starter) Seiko 5. Spotted it in video still. I grew up with mechanical watches but sage advice.
Am just getting into this, and looking at my first Seiko 5. Not so worried about hyper accuracy so a little daily slippage of a few seconds will be quite acceptable as my time-telling is no more demanding than "a quarter past four", rather than "16:14:58". Old school mechanicals have a charm that quartz watches and mobile phones simply don't.
Thanks for your videos - nice to have someone talking about realistic, accessible horology for people with real-world budgets; I'm never going to own a Patek or an AP, and I'm fine with that.
That seiko 5 is worth servicing.
It isnt :) My Seiko 5, which i bought for aprox 5 USD (really - i bought it from the Czech goverment...) broke. Probably the power reserve isnt OK. I have send it to service, they told me it will be bettr to change themovement (aprox 200 USD!) and i bought another Seiko 5 instead. But 30 % cheaper than the repair could have cost. Sorry for my "english"
4mageo Are you sure it isn’t fake? I mean you bought it for $5
@@shiraz1736 it isnt a fake Seiko. The price was so low, because the goverment get things from criminals or people who have died and have no childern and no one knew if the watch works or not. Its a risk. You can buy officially not just watches but also sculptures, paintings, cars, computer, houses/flats, land... But not always for such a funny price.
I have a seiko 5 that looks great but it’s now on the fritz. I don’t want to pay hundreds (first quote I got) for servicing. Total total hassle.
@@ericsnyder6837 learn how to service yourself, I did, now I maintain all my mechanical watches ;)
Good video. I have about 6-7 Seiko mechanical pieces that I run semi-regularly. My beater is a Timex Weekender, but I run whatever Seiko I feel like every so often. They’re solid pieces but I always have to set them every time I take them out. No big deal, if you’re expecting it. So that’s something to factor in. I’ve never had to adjust the time on my Timex, and a basic battery swap.
So, yeah. Quartz is superior, but you buy the mechanical for the art more than anything.
An worst case EMP from the sun will take out the quartz along with everything else 🤣 but your mechanical miracle will keep on ticking haha
@@Blake4625kHz I just wear my sundial watch. No resetting the time or worrying about EMPs.
@@stupedcraig as your name implies 😄
I bought a Casio atomic solar digital about 15 years ago that still works and keeps great time (obviously). I think I paid around $50 for it. I don’t think you can even get the same model anymore. One of my favorites to this day. But a Seiko 5 is my daily wearing watch. 👍🏻
I am thinking to buy Seiko 5 watch
Could you suggest the name pls ?
*Quartz movements will also wear out. Just because theres battery inside doesn't mean it will always turn on when there's a battery inside.*
However, most quartz watches are cheaper than Automatic watches in the first place....so you will spend less money on quartz watches overall. I can buy 10+ quartz watches for the price of my Automatic.....
I own three, I didn’t realize I would have to service them before seeing this video. I’m hoping that won’t cost more than $150 but I still feel good in my mechanical watch. My newest watch is a hack watch, but until this video I never understood what that meant. This was a great video, thanks for the content.
Good video for newbies. Thank you. Most of my autos cost between $100 and $400. It would be easier and more cost effective to just drop a new NH36 (or the like) movement in when/if needed, which is far less often than most people think. I have a 1972 Timex Marlin that still runs well and has never been serviced. All that said, it has taken me some time and commitment to learn how to drop a new movement into a watch and that commitment I think is your whole point. Mechanical watches require a small commitment. Thanks again for another thoughtful video.
Why not learn to lubricate?
Very informative video. I’ve always worn quarts watches, and my current daily watch keeps impeccable time, so I was unaware of the inherent inaccuracies of an automatic watch. Recently I purchased a Montblanc Tradition Automatic, and when I noticed the inaccuracy after a couple days I was worried I had waisted my money. After watching this video though, I’m a lot more confident in my purchase.
Great video! I got my first ‘proper’ watch from my grandparents for my 18th birthday earlier this year - a Seiko 5 Sports (green dial). This is a really nice roundup of all the things I found out as I got used to using it daily. It’s replaced my Apple Watch as my main timekeeper, as despite the fact it’s so much less ‘useful’, it’s just a lovely thing to have on my wrist.
Your Grandparents have good tastes!
I have an Apple Watch too, 6th gen, have been using Apple Watches since they first came out. Recently started feeling like I should get a “real watch” as I hit 20 this year. Was it a difficult transition to go from an Apple Watch back to a traditional clock faced watch? And would you recommend it?
i just bought the same watch haha
I bought a seiko automatic to unplug and tell the time without technology. Trust me, its a better way of life. Leave your phone at home.
Does the Seiko 5 sport have both hand-winding and hacking?
I was debating on whether to get a quartz or automatic. Ended up getting a beautiful longine dolcevita quartz. One of the things that made me think about getting an automatic was I would pass it down. Then my husband said, don't assume someone would want it and that pretty much settled that for me. I understand the engineering appeal for some. I just want a well made, good looking watch and it ended up being a quartz..
That's a great choice! I've been eyeing some Dolce VIta too, as an alternative to the Reverso or Cartier Tank.
I have been in situations where accurate time keeping is of paramount importance. That’s why I mostly trust quartz watches. The extensive emphasis placed on the accuracy of really expensive mechanical watches is like comparing the best chess player to the latest version of the deep blue computer.
Probably the only mechanical watch I'd trust in situations where accurate time keeping is essential is Grand Seiko's Spring Drive (though granted many don't consider it a mechanical).
OTOH, any quartz like Casio's F-91W or worse (such as knock-offs like 'Kenko') shouldn't be trusted over the long haul (more than 2 weeks) without time adjustment either.
Hugely helpful! I have done a bit of research and took the plunge on a seiko 5. Now discontinued to make way for new models. One thing I've noticed is that I still have to adjust the time on my casio and timex. I know they're cheap. And they've been my daily beaters. But I think with the 'automatic' ill be better at making a ritual of each week adjusting rather than finding out im 5 minutes behind after a while of not checking the battery watches. Looked at smart watches and just don't want to be bothered at this point for what they're worth
For setting the time on a watch without hacking or winding (like Seiko 5) I found that when you advance the minute hand it typically jumpstarts the watch with whatever little energy might still be stored. So I typically sync the seconds hand that way and then shake the watch a bit to store more energy in the mainspring. After winding it a bit I set the time
The things you’ve covered are the reasons I love mechanical watches.
Excellent video, thank you. I change my watches every few days, so accuracy doesn’t bother me that much. I own mostly mechanical watches, but a fair number of quartz as well. I love them all!
I'm using My father's Seiko 5 it's older than me ❤️
Although quartz watches make up the majority of the watches in my collection, I am very fond of mechanicals. The three that I have are vintage pieces, and I love the second hand sweep and their idiosyncrasies. It's true that they are a bit of a hassle but I think everyone interested in watches should have at least one mechanical. They're really cool.
@@RelaX-xi7uxhow much did it cost you to service that watch?
If we are being honest, we don't buy mechanical watches for their accuracy (there are many better options). I have a sufficiently large collection of vintage mechanical watches that I have learned to service them myself although it should be pointed out that with modern synthetic lubricants, such as Moebius, servicing should not be necessary more than once a decade, at most.
True. The accuracy is my least concern when it comes to mechanicals.
My first mechanical watch was Swatch Irony Skeleton bought on 1999 in my early 20s, since then I have collected many of them, say Seiko, Mido, some rare Citizens (since they focus mainly on the Eco-Drive).
I haven't learned how to service them myself, I would really like to. I have found that the places I sent them for service, the people are poorly skilled.
One of those places, returned my Seiko 5 with the minute hand full of lubricant, really? And the other place misaligned the hour hand, when the minute hand points at 12, the hour hand is slightly forward for about 10 minutes.
@@echandirohrmoser3183 Misalignments, and scratches are the worst part of servicing. I went to get a Caravelle watch battery put in, only to get it scratch to the point of looking slightly damaged. I'm sorry about your hour hand misalignment.
Absolutely. Will have to make another video covering why I think mechanical watches are worth the extra effort and drawbacks compared to quartz watches.
That is true. At their best, mechanical watches are works of engineering art. If you can do a full service on a mechanical watch, you have far more skill, not to mention better eyesight and steadier hands than I do. The one I'm saving for currently should be easily serviced by any competent watchmaker as it's ETA based, but I'll still expect that to run $200-$300 when it eventually becomes necessary.
Engineering art is an excellent description. Mechanical watches appeal to me at a level far deeper than merely being a device to tell the time with. When I have had to strip down a movement (something I try to avoid where possible), I just marvel at the skill and precision involved in their making. Even a cheap, basic movement is fascinating at 20x magnification.
I was surprised you didn’t mention setting the hands to say 6 o’clock when setting the date as one can damage the system setting date closer to 12:00. Also sw200 and eta 2824 movements can be damaged by hand winding too often or too aggressively. Thanks
Please share more info about the potential damages.
@@realbigbear the keyless work starts to slip. This is very common according to my watch maker and i have experienced it myself i would recommend slow use of manual winding on these movements.
Mechanical or Automatic watches has universe of its own, they are timepiece. Its the handcraft amd art that you want to spend some money to own one. What's important is how you feel when you wear them, we all have smart phones and we rely the time on them.
Excellent expression
Automatic watches, come in various categories. My Omega Speed master is about 8 years old now, daily use, and it's doing just great.
😉Be sure to always set the hands at 🕡 before you set the day&date ✌
Do I need to do so (hands at 6oc when setting day&date) if my watch is a mechanical quartz?
@@bestopinion9257 nope not really because analogue quartz only triggered the day date complications right on 23:59~00:00 other than that you may rest assured👍
I have the Hamilton khaki mechanical and it’s plenty accurate for me , love the Watch
Yeah the accuracy of mechanical watches doesn't bother me so much. The most relevant consequence is that you'll need to be resetting the time periodically to make sure it's not too far off.
Adam Newman That is a fantastic timepiece. The Hamilton Khaki and Seiko SKX are 2 staples for any watch collector!!!!
7. Do NOT set the time backward. Especially never when your hour hand is anywhere between 9 and 3. Again this is, like @R Mack wrote in another comment, to avoid breaking the date change mechanics which is made to run in one direction only (of course if your watch is a no date one there isn't this problem).
... Unless the mechanical watch is vintage, in which case the time should always be set by moving the hands forward.
I would choose an Automatic over a Quartz Watch every time...they’re way classier in my opinion 😎👌
My father's watch, Seiko 5 automatic, still work after 45 years no service !
No
It is still keeping time as when was new?
@@navarrouk3487 it's loose 2 minutes per day . Now I fixed it and it is ok
Thanks for that info 🙂
Great video! Especially the point about hacking and hand winding. Especially hand-winding was a feature I, foolishly, assumed was standard on an automatic watch.
If I want to know the time exactly with seconds, I take a look at my phone. And tbh I never even once needed the time down to the seconds.... idc if it’s off by 5 sec... life is already busy enough..
As a computer consultant I do have to know times to a second precision. There are lots of systems that have maintenance windows and we cannot take the system offline before the time allowed by contract, or else we have to pay compensation to our clients. Of course in these occasions I do not use my clock or my cell phone, I just use the computer time.
I've invested a large part of my family fortune into an Invicta.
Lol. 😂
Is the Invicta still functioning?
The good part about Invictia, it won’t need a maintenance for their lifetime 😅
😂
I have some invictas too
IMO, Quartz is better suited for the common man, who lead busy weekdays and weekends, trying to master the work-life balance, and for whom accurate time really matters. Automatics are more suited for the laid-back.
That's an interesting way to look at it! I guess I'm a mix of lazy and hard working as I've got a share of automatics and quartz pieces!
I bought an automatic dress watch. I found it time consuming in the morning to fix the time after my 2-day weekly offs. It felt like I bought a master whom I am serving. I got fed up with it.
Now I rely only on my Casio Edifice. It will serve me prompt for a decade. I intend to get another Casio, this time a G-shock for my rougher tasks.
Hacking also allows you to correct a fast movement w/out moving the hands backward.
Great introduction to auto/mechanical watches showing the pros and cons. I have long been a collector of watches both mechanical and quartz pieces. I have around 30 pieces at present. The best long term prospect for me is a quartz solar powered watch. My Citizen eco drive, which is now 18 years old is still very accurate (2-3 seconds per month) and has never been serviced. My Rolex DJ is -12 seconds per month and has cost me £1800 in service costs over the same period. As and instrument for telling the time the eco drive is a no brainer but I still love the Rolex.
Well I have invested in mechanical watches a long time ago and I have several of them all automatics, I am pleased with every single one of them. Quality watches would require a service every 5 years roughly and the price of it depends on the type of watch but even the one that has increased in value 25 times its original price I paid for, the service is about 180 USD. I have had that watch since 1988. I had it serviced 6 times which is not even the price I have paid for and it is extremely far from its actual speculated value.
When you buy such watches you are buying a piece of engineering and architecture and if you choose well or are lucky they do get pricey with time for example the watch I was referring to is the nicknamed Omega speedmaster Holy Grail ref ST 376.0822 Calibre 1045, also I have an old Rolex Pepsi GMT II Caliber 16750 that has more than doubled in value and several others Breitling, Jaeger LeCoultre... Again if you can afford it, do not choose just any watch you should put a bit of thinking because at the end the sentimental value is much more than the rest and yes I plan to passing it on...
Watches is part of my culture being a Swiss individual...😉
Great video! I wish I watched it 20 years ago when i bought my first mechanical watch.. Omega Seamaster. It costs about $1,000+ every 5 years for servicing it; i wait till the watch doesn’t work, or keeps terrible time. But the watch looks very nice.
Wow makes me glad I own a super clone... Fake yes but definitely good omega seamaster 300 professional.. Had for 6 years worn daily and never had a problem the irony hey
I am wearing a zenith and an omega from my grandfather from 50s / 60s, never have been serviced and are working perfectly, no more than +-20s/30s a day. Must be something with the oil they put nowadays cause mines are fine.
Denis Muthuon they’re definitely doing something wrong... b/c I had my watch. Serviced three times since I brought it in year 2000. And it isn’t working again, and will be sending it for a service soon. And I hardly wore it between now and the last time serviced.
@@chrisp5526 I know, and am certain of it, last time, something like 6 month ago the AD i went to in Lyon looked at my omega and insisted in servicing it, something I refused totaly, telling him what I just metion above, it works fine and never had been serviced for more than 50 years, he kept on insisting, I tend to wonder if they don't do something to make sure you have to come back regularly and pay the recuring premium fees. The thing is, my great gran father was a watch/clock maker, my grand father was a clock maker and have been tough by him to build clocks, you know the big one on the walls not watches, but still our mechanism don't need anything to run and clearly no service every 2 to 3 years. I understand watch are running at a much hightmer rate and are smaller mechanical components but still, once regulated you shouldn't need to reservice them never, not mentioning the 'lubricants', why put jewels and a rubis hanker then? The sole purpose of jewels and rubis is to reduce friction and abrasion of the components to their minimum....
Denis Muthuon omega now uses a coaxle movement... supposed to last longer before needing service. They must have learned their watches weren’t lasting. And I only get my serviced by Omega, so not a second party job.
Quite a (dare I say it?) timely video as I'm currently researching a couple of Hamilton automatics. All I have are solar and battery operated watches.
Hamilton Kakhi all the way
Great tips Dave, all are valid points to consider when looking into getting mechanical watches, but with that are a part of the charm!
Good video. I'm new to the "hobby". I knew all of this, but you did a really great job of explaining everything. Well done.
Exactly what I thought. I enjoy watches. I don't like setting a time every time I wear mechanical watches.
My wife doesn't like me setting the time everytime I put on a mechanical watch... which I usually do right before heading out the door when we're supposed to be somewhere...
Wonderful machinery, intricate and beautiful inside and out. Art with function.
Great tips, I have a mix of quartz and mechanical watches, which I like equally. Quartz are great if you are in a hurry, or watches like my Protrek which serve a specific purpose for me. I really enjoy mechanical watches too, I have a couple of tips for mechanicals I can add.
1- if the watch has a day or date function, you shouldn’t change it from 9:00pm to 3:00am, because the quick set component of the watch is starting to work at that time, and you don’t want to force it. Marc at Long Island Watch has a great video on this called “ adjusting Mechanical watch day/date”. Worth checking it out.
2- I have Vostok without a date complications, which is great. Vostok date complications are a bit of a pain to set, so if you have a few watches and don’t wear it all the time, I would recommend a Vostok without the date.
Thanks for the video, and the great tips. 👍
Good points, thanks!
100% right. "from 9:00pm to 3:00am"= Death Zone
You are brilliant man. Love how you explain things in details.
Im new to this channel but really enjoy your content! Well done sir love to hear watchtalk
Thanks a lot!
I’ve been in the hobby for about two hours and now I own four automatic watches. A Seiko SNK809, a Seiko SNXS79, a Seiko SNKL23 and a Loreo Subbie. But then again I’m trying to move past a failed relationship 😂
Lol. Retail therapy works!
That's some pretty fast shipping...
@@JusttheWatch Alright, maybe I meant two months ;)
@Jochem lol that's kinda relatable. A failed relationship led me into buying two watches (retail therapy, as someone above mentioned) and eventually into the hobby seriously.
Thanks for helping to grow the community in this awesome hobby!
Thanks for watching!
Thanks -- that was a nice overview. I'm pretty new to the hobby, too. I like a lot of the aspects of a mechanical watch (aesthetics, craftsmanship etc) but it took me getting to ...a certain age, let's say.....that I'm more relaxed about precision than I used to be, if not wholly. So, I've got a few mechanical (Orient, Timex now) watches and some solar watches for when I feel the need for more accuracy.
I like having a good mix of mechanical and quartz watches. It's nice to have options. Usually I tend to have a stronger attachment to my mechanical pieces, but often times out of sheer practicality I'll find myself wearing my quartz watches more frequently.
My rolex is 3 seconds off in a year. You just need to know how to rest it.
@@pensforgts Ok, now that's impressive! From what I've read in the hobby, that can be done but it's well beyond my hobby budget.
I have my great grandpas seiko from 1973 and I works perfectly and has not been serviced
That's Japanese engineering for you
Yeah, it's kind of like Japanese cars right? Some of them will run for hundreds of thousands of miles without breaking down.
Same for my omega and zenith from 50s and 60s, never serviced working perfectly fine
Really cool video bro, super interesting and definitely informative. My fav watch is my Seiko 5 SNK809, not that I have too many anyway. Just needed another strap though :)
Mechanical watches have other issues. They are relatively delicate - you're not supposed to wear them when they might encounter impacts, such as playing golf. Most mechanical watches can be affected by magnetism.
That's another great point. I've heard activities like mountain biking can be torture to a mechanical watch.
think about it..... quartz has been around since the 70's.... before that all watches were mechanical.... used in all ctivities.... golf... war etc..... they are not as fragile as you think.... i have worn an SKX for many years off road motorcycling and mountain biking ....no issues and in 10 years never serviced....
@@rockysrider5352 Exactly, and often musicians are watch nuts, and look to be wearing some expensive stuff while thrashing away on their guitars, and many seem to wear them on the right/strumming hand as well, for whatever reason
ua-cam.com/video/TMR_3BJCmh8/v-deo.html
Excellent point, motorcycles are NOT vibration--free, be aware of this with mechanical watches.
Bani Niba: That would depend on the watch type. I have a fondness for dive watches which are incredibly robust and take a beating. I have golfed, played softball, mountain biked all while wearing a mechanical dive watch without issue. Dive watches are designed to take abused and are ideal for any kind of rugged activity.
It's amazing really....we are in a time when automatic watches should be less popular, but it seems like the trend is going the other way.
"Everything that glitters"...
My grandad bought mechanical watch in USSR 40 years ago, he used it for about 20 years and it still keeps time, never been serviced. Explain this.
Bought it 40 years ago and used it 20 years, what did he do with the watch during those other twenty years ? Hide it from the KGB ?
I have no explanation. It's one of those rare miraculous occurrences. I've heard of some guys getting a watch and it needing service after two years. Some watches are bound to perform extremely well and others will be lemons. But I suspect most will fall into that 10 year range of needing servicing.
he can't explain, because he's an ignorant trying to make a buck with this trash talk. You shoul NEVER shake a watch to start the movement!!!! agghhhh👎💨
@@arqcm lol
Actually its recommended to service when there's a loss or gain in time more than usual which can be anywhere from 10 to almost 20 years inbetwern services and a service shouldn't cost more than $100 for any watch minus replacing parts, I've had antique pocket watches that haven't been touched in over 50 years still keep perfect time and run for 48 hours stagnant trouble free. I paid $100 for my seiko 5 watch and the dat is needs serviced is the day I'll have it done, why? Because its a damn good watch thats served its purpose and itll continue doing its job. Spend 100 on a watch once every 10 years or keep the one you love for the same price or cheaper. In the long run keeping pa watch you like regardless of initial price is worth more than replacing it
I am wearing that exact citizen as I’m watching this for the first time. Weird.
thank you! I am out. Too utilitarian for this. You had me at point 1. lol.
In the real world, solar watches are best all rounder. I've had my Citizen diver 6yrs now & only mess with it when DST changes. Lume is bright as my Seiko auto & no issues. Also got an older solar Casio & no probs. Always accurate & very practical. Bought a 2nd Citizen diver when they had them on sale last year for $120 ($220 now!).