You're a breath of fresh air in yt watch community, as they all talk mostly about few famous brands and every other review is about those ugly diving watches. It's like they all copy each other.
@@NathanChisholm041 Actually, it's the other way around. Often some people like to wear/drive big and too obvious designs/cars in order to compensate their insecurity. Anyway, a man doesn't need a big screaming chunk of metal around his wrist, especially if he's not using it for its basic purpose, which is to tell the time under water.
Agreed. Most watch geeks don’t have a clue about aesthetics and like you said just follow the crowd. Most dive watches have the aesthetic appeal of a brick.
First Festina review I've ever seen on UA-cam. Congratulations! This brand has its place in any collection and deserves respect.Great dress watch. Thanks for sharing.
@@vhakz2417 I would say "common in malls". I am not entirely sure why malls are selling a certain niche of brands, but I assume it is what hits the common taste the most and what grants greatest revenue to the mall. In general there are differen "mall brands" with a differnt "fashion watch factor". As you might have already learned, all the "watch enthusiasts" hate on fashion watches. Some might be snobbery, some might be rightful criticism of the low quality coming with a relatively high price. So getting a Danial Wellington from the mall it is gonna have a bad connotation, and dragging down the reputation of the watch isles of the mall. I think Ben's video and Festina as an example give a good impression on "mall watches". I'd sum them up like this: Usually quartz movement, a relatively neutral design most can agree on, around 100€, no dropshipping (except DW maybe) but made their own design. Casio would be another popular mall watch brand, yet with a good reputation and good watches ofc. Them selling so much in malls might explain their horrendous online shop. Unfortunately malls also often sell overpriced watches from fashion brands. I am fairly sure some company is behind this manufacturing for several brands and they have a contract with the mall. So I'd say not per se a bad reputation, it depends what you would go for. I'd say watching Bens videos is a good way for getting to know watches as he's not a snob.
Festina were merely the sponsors to the Festina cycling team and had no involvement with the day to day running/doping etc in the Tour De France etc. Anyway, great watch I have 2 of these, the same as your review one and a blue dial version, both bought for around £50- £60 a couple of years ago. They are a re-issue almost 1:1 of a 1950's model which was called the Extra. Great value and very true to the original without all the hassle of a vintage piece. Very underrated here in the UK, but very common in Europe.
I'm from Spain and I'm shocked that so few people seem to know the brand in UK/US. They're everywhere in Spain, also easy to come across in Germany, where I currently live. I was searching for videos on the brand because I'm currently wearing a Festina that my grandpa used to wear until he passed away last December. Quite scratched but my absolute most precious jewel
NOT a fan of quartz watches, but I bought a Festina on a plane as I was impressed with the appearance, the details & finishing of a beautiful day/date calendar watch for about $90. Been swimming with it for a few weeks on that vacation, despite the 50m WR rating (no screw down crown). 3 years later, it works fine, and looks as new. As a bonus, it came on the nicest blue leather strap I ever came across. It's a thumbs up for this fashion brand and your piece in particular 👍🏿
@@the_9ent I haven't ditched it, better yet, my wife wears it sometimes (for color matching purpose). The model is F16823-3. I wouldn't recommend it, being a rather large quartz watch, but it hasn't disappointed me in the slightest, therefore I have to praise it for what it is 😁
They are not a Fashion brand at all my friend....They have been manufacturing excellent watches for almost 120 years....Maybe now-days they are not actually producing movements as they used to(who does it actually,only few),but still they have a very good brand name,at least in continental Europe....
Festina is an old Swiss brand bought by lotus of Spain in the 90s,decent watches ,using citizen movements also make automatic watches.a lot of the production is chronos and sports related,I have a couple of multifunction festinas and am very happy with them.probably on the same level as rotary or bulova.
I own couple of Festina watches, and they are all great. And they last very long time. Please buy and review some Festinas that are more then 200 euros and you will see that in their price range they are much better then Seiko and Casio. Sorry for my English. Greetings from Serbia. Keep up the good work.
Watches that I own are out of production, but I can recommend models like F16760/3, F20515/1, F20519/3, F20367/1, F20524/1, F20010/4, F20007/3, F20010/2, F20448/3, F20378/3...
As you said, there is no such thing as bad publicity. I bought my first Festina in Summer 1998 as Richard Virenque and the whole team was banned from participating in the Tour de France. I had no clue about watches, and Festina was the only recognizable brand in my price range in the little boutique next door.
I own a Festina quartz watch purchased in 2002 from a small jeweller in Charente-Maritime which I consider to be the most handsome wristwatch I have ever seen.....it's also superbly reliable.
While Festina origin is Swiss, since the eighties Festina is an Spanish company. About Festina watches, in my opinion most of them are not targeted to horology 'aficionados' but mainly to customers that demand a quality, yet affordable, watch.
The Festina has more than a passing resemblance to Omega Seamasters of the '50's and '60's.Check it out online and I'm sure you'll see what I mean..........................
I picked mine up in Spain. They are now a Spanish brand. Although I always thought that they used Seiko movements! Still Miyota are just as reliable and cheap and available for repair if needed. Great review!🙏👍🙏👍
Just bought my Festina f20531/5 Pepsi Diver Watch. A week before, I was immediately smitten by it and the price was budget friendly for its quality (and it was even on 20% sale). Now tho, I just wanted to say that it was a money well spent~ . It's stylish, feels like good quality, and looks like a classic without needing to break bank ~
I bought a festina on a plane when I was 16, that was about 18 years ago. It was my daily driver under extreme conditions for about 6 years and it still works. Now knowing that they're manufactured in Switzerland, Spain and Japan I'd definitely feel comfortable spending money on another one.
The first watch I remember seen in my life is the Festina of my dad. It is from 1989, white dial, gold case and leather strap, with "quartz" next to the brand logo. It still works perfectly and the quality of materials and constrution seems to be on the same level of the Seikos we have. Here in Portugal they are very popular specially amongst young people for their prices and curious...they sponsor the Tour of Portugal, so I guess they are still into cycling :p
Just posted a comment ref. blood tranfusions in hotel bedrooms during the tour de France.Armstrong lost all his jerseys in the following years after confessing. What a wart on the sport.
Nice review yet again Ben👍🏼 Having followed cycling most of my life, I’ve known of the Festina brand. The fact a good friend of mine here in rural Victoria, Australia has a family jewellery business & has sold these watches for longer than I care to remember, also helped knowing this brand. I think the aesthetics is great & that stainless steel expandable band is one of the better one’s I’ve seen! Cheers from “Down Under” 🇦🇺
Thanks for being different from other sites. I like seeing watches that aren't on every darn youtube site. I am not a fan of the second hand with a quartz watch, but I really dig the band though.
Had a festina watch for 20 years loved it never missed a beat except when battery needed changing about once a year.lost it tho ,it was a very frustrating and sad day lol
I've rode Harleys with bikers. American Race cars in the 70s as a teenager . Guitars early 2,000s. All pricey hobbies that you go into with a $200 beater now watches. I had no idea watch people who live, eat and sleep watches even existed. Now I' am a old guy & finally have reinvented myself one last time with a luxury classic car my important papers in a brief case & watch addiction. I had no idea of the world I was entering. Just like my guitars you start out with a entry level and end up with a $3,500 guitar Started with a old American Timex now I look at Omegas & Rolex.
If you consider buying from Amazon: I noticed that some cheaper Festina watches I was interested in were from China if you buy from Amazon ("Origin: China") while the same watch was from Japan if you directly buy from Festina. Watches over 100 € were from Spain if you buy from Amazon and from Switzerland (!), if you buy from Festina. Yes, you can save 10 to 20 Euros but the difference in quality is real.
Thanks for the review. I have a Festina from the "Chrono-bike" series. (F16654 / 2) This one has a mineral glass crystal and quartz movement. A good all-round watch for a reasonable price. Purchased from the local jeweler.
This is why I watch your videos, Ben! This is the kinda information I want. I always admired this Tour de France rider called Virenque. He could ride a bike very well. I'm a sportsfan. I always liked the brand, but nowadays the watches are kinda meh. Thanks for the video!
I have a Swatch branded one and I love it. Can't say it's pulling my hairs much. Would think it just flexes too easily for hairs to get caught anywhere for long. It's a total pain to adjust for length though; once you have it set, you will dread ever having to adjust it again. The one here providing micro adjust. would seem a much needed improvement. Used, German, vintag-y 'Rowi Fixo-Flex' bracelets are plentiful and rather cheap on ebay, so anyone interested could try. Edit: And - once one has taken apart such a bracelet for adjust. - one might appreciate the mechanical engineering: very clever, clean design this.
I used to wear watches on such bracelets, they were all vintage ones made in the 70s (oh the joys of having no money for new straps & bracelets). Indeed they aren't too bad when it comes to unwarranted armhair loss but they're arguably the most painful to actually put on since skin can (and will) get stuck in between links whilst doing so if you're not careful.
@@pete5668 It will. I remember finding that old watch my grandfather has had for decades. It was on one of these bracelets. I just wanted to try it on, and already you could "feel the pain". I also found another video on YT about how these bracelets weren't good for the watch lugs either, since they are expanding and thus pull on the spring bars and spring bar holes.
I think you don´t need to have worries about using the Festina watches under water. I have Festina chronograph for years and i was swimming with it in pools, sea, ocean...freediving . No problems at all. Also te Festina watches looks very good for its price. I would buy another one.
I own two Festina watches. An 8810 from about 20 years ago and a new Chrono Bike. Both are awesome watches and I'm surprised they are considered a fashion watch company now by so many people...
I've come across a few of these on amazon for around the £60 mark. Thanks for the review. Not a lot available on UA-cam for this brand, certainly no reviews anyway there are some handheld 30 second or so clips and they look smart enough
Festina is a Spanish company, they are very popular here in Spain (along with Lotus and other brands owned by the same company) never been attracted by their watches, though.
My bike chrono 14' still runs like a charm after 6 years of abuse as an everyday watch, have to say the watch does look much nicer in person, photos don't do it justice. I think these are very solid mid range watches.
Festina really needs more coverage, especially on their Extra and Classic range. Found them today after we bought a small 20mm Festina Extra for my girlfriend while shopping. It was around $55 on discount and for that price the watch really looks the part. Small, no seconds hand, applied indices and "F" mark, subdued suburst dial... Makes me really want a men's Extra in my collection. Really well made watch and dare I say it, above Casio IF found on discount. Highly recommend seeing them in person.
I own a Calypso which is part of the Festina Group, made in Spain. It's kind of an entry level Festina for much less than 100 euros. Had it for 10 years and it still looks great. The only complaint I have is that the battery seems to wear out too fast.
Festinas are GREAT watches,especially their Chrono Bike models(And I don't think that Festina Watches....doped the cyclists!!!!).Exceptional design and Citizen-Miyota quartz and automatic movements.They are true watches manufacturers,having a long heritage and providing a very big range of watches for every taste.People who snob Festina or most of quartz watches probably wear only Rolex and Omega or....Pagani Design I guess????Horogoly doesn't end with the mechanical watches,we are advancing in technology....Festina is,at least in my own opinion,at the same level or even better from Invicta and far ahead from all the Chinese made fashion brands.For the future I wish we could see some reviews about Accurist,Rotary or Wenger watches.Keep up the good job Ben,Greetings from Greece!!!!
Cool. I find them a little too bling. I see them like Mathey-Tissot, one of those "also ran" Swiss brands now bottom-feeding. Some good stuff, but a lot of meh
Great review! Some years ago I was interested in buying one of these but the list price kept me off (couldn't find any deals at that time). And I'm glad that it did because I ended up buying an Orient Bambino small seconds for the same price as this Festina (talking about the list price) :D Still, I like Festina's watches and as a brand it has a very long tradition. Imo they're better than Scagen, Bering, Mvmt, etc
I appreciate the simple elegance of the style of this watch, very reminiscent of the 1950s/early 1960s. Perhaps the logo could be slightly less prominent. I think that the expanding bracelet well compliments the watch. I like the bracelet in combination with this watch also because it is very distinctive in that expanding watch bands are very rarely seen nowadays. The length adjustment facility is something I've not seen before on an expanding bracelet and I wonder how well it works in practice. It looks a bit clunky, particularly given that, in my view, the unique attractive feature of expanding bracelets is the absence of a clasp or any other visible mechanism. I suspect that one of the reasons for the marked decline in their popularity is the need to remove/add springs and links to adjust their length for the wrist circumference. In my experience, this is not too difficult with the older Fixoflex brand with the correct pliers, however it looks as if it would be more difficult with this style of band as the U-shaped springs connecting the links do not appear to be exposed.
Festina happens to be the most popular watch brand in Spain and in most parts of Latin America. The Spanish owned Festina Group incorporates 5 brands. Festina itself entertains a huge catalogue with 100s of different models accompanied by their more upmarket 'Lotus' brand and their kids/budget plastic watch line 'Calypso'. Top of the line are their swiss made brands 'Candino' and 'Jaguar'. The MSRP of those never exceed £$€ 1500.- though. Most of their "bread and butter" models are made in China (Hong Kong).
As a life-long cycling nut, and a collector of watches for almost as long, I can't remember a time in the last 25 years or so, that I haven't had at least one Festina in my possession. This is a cracking little looker, and if they did an auto version I'd be on it like a fly to sh*t!. And for all those who wince at the thought of a couple of hairs being pulled out by that bracelet ..... Grow a pair!.😉
I got a Festina after watching your review. It's a beautiful piece, casual with a whiskey leather strap and I'm actually very happy with it. Yes, I would buy a Festina, and I did. Thanks.
On a leather strap I think this watch would have a very similar look to the Gruen 510 that Sean Connery wore in the casino scene of Dr No. I’d be quite tempted to give it a try.
I have a super slim Festina F16260, now sadly discontinued. Wonderful time-piece. They still make elegant watches and I think they are Casio-level, quality and price-wise.
I know nothing about that watch company. However it is a great looking watch. I wouldn't mind getting my hands on that bracelet. I've got a few watches that bracelet would look awesome on. Nice review of this piece.
Festinas are all over the place here in Spain. They're pretty standard mall watch shop fare. Call me a watch snob but when I see cases of quartz watches from the same brand in every style imaginable I just kind of tune them out. (Honestly, I have that same reaction to Tissot, which I know is considered a higher end brand. ) I like the vintage aesthetic of this particular one and 60 something pounds isn't outrageous for it. But with a little searching you could get an actual watch from that era, maybe get it serviced at a watchmaker, and have a watch with a lot more character. A vintage hand-winding watch from a lesser known brand can be had for pretty cheap. However, that can be a hassle and this watch does nail that 50s/60s look. I can't shake that mall watch vibe from the brand, though.
I bought one to pair up with my suit and shoes for brothers wedding without knowing anything about watches. Have it dor 5 years. Not a single problem. Beautiful watch.
Hi Ben, Some time ago, you made a video about a Casio Sapphire watch as a good replacement for a similar Daniel Wellington. Nowadays, that Casio watch is impossible to find. After your Festina’s video I checked their website and they have a similar one with sapphire glass: FESTINA SWISS MADE COLLECTION WATCH F20012/3 BLUE, LEATHER STRAP, MAN. Any opinions?
I got this on Valentine's :D(after request). I dig vintage. Shame that this kind of style isnt more popular, but on the other hand we can get outlet deals because nobody seem to want them..
Hi Ben Need some suggestions regarding Casio watches I have Casio F-91W and A-158 .. but I am considering to purchase another Casio watch around 20 to 30 bucks Can u suggest few watches ? Thanks
For 70 quid, that's not too bad. I would rather get something from Orient though, like the tristar, or maybe one of the sapphire casio ones. 70 for a quartz watch with no sapphire is not really worth it for me.
I've just come across a watch on Amazon that I thought you might like (I kinda like it myself). It's the Accurist 7219. English brand, quartz, 40mm and sapphire crystal. All for 70 quid! Looks quite smart as well.
I really want one of their Swiss made watches but they do not deliver to the UK. I have seen them on House of Watches though, a UK website. Are you familiar with this seller and know if they are any good?
Festina watches are rare in UA-cam, to not say "non existent", which is odd considering they have been the official timekeepers of the Tour de France 🇫🇷 despite their cycling team faux pas. I own 2 quartz, a chronograph and a casual day to day one. They have proven to be good watches going on the same price as many Fossils, and would gladly go Festina over a fashion watch, although I concur on the pricing issue: for what they regularly cost, I'd go seiko.
The quality of finishing looks amazing and is certainly a challenge to Orient Bambino.. but having said that, I somehow find the logo distracting especially at that position. Kind of looks like a date window but its not :/
Affiliate Product Link: geni.us/festinaextra
You're a breath of fresh air in yt watch community, as they all talk mostly about few famous brands and every other review is about those ugly diving watches. It's like they all copy each other.
Dive watches rock! Better than those small ladies watches Soyboys seem to be interested in!
@@NathanChisholm041 Actually, it's the other way around. Often some people like to wear/drive big and too obvious designs/cars in order to compensate their insecurity.
Anyway, a man doesn't need a big screaming chunk of metal around his wrist, especially if he's not using it for its basic purpose, which is to tell the time under water.
@@damyr mic drop 😂👍🏻
Agreed. Most watch geeks don’t have a clue about aesthetics and like you said just follow the crowd. Most dive watches have the aesthetic appeal of a brick.
@@jacc88888 Thankgod you ladies don't speak for the majority of men!! I'll be glad when the ladies watch fad is over! Enjoy girls...
First Festina review I've ever seen on UA-cam. Congratulations! This brand has its place in any collection and deserves respect.Great dress watch. Thanks for sharing.
Festina is a quite popular "mall watch" brand in Germany
Yes here in sweden to
In France too
Im new to this but what would you consider to be a mall watch ? A brand exclusively/very common in malls ? Does mall watches have a bad connotation?
@@vhakz2417 I would say "common in malls". I am not entirely sure why malls are selling a certain niche of brands, but I assume it is what hits the common taste the most and what grants greatest revenue to the mall.
In general there are differen "mall brands" with a differnt "fashion watch factor". As you might have already learned, all the "watch enthusiasts" hate on fashion watches. Some might be snobbery, some might be rightful criticism of the low quality coming with a relatively high price. So getting a Danial Wellington from the mall it is gonna have a bad connotation, and dragging down the reputation of the watch isles of the mall.
I think Ben's video and Festina as an example give a good impression on "mall watches". I'd sum them up like this: Usually quartz movement, a relatively neutral design most can agree on, around 100€, no dropshipping (except DW maybe) but made their own design.
Casio would be another popular mall watch brand, yet with a good reputation and good watches ofc. Them selling so much in malls might explain their horrendous online shop. Unfortunately malls also often sell overpriced watches from fashion brands. I am fairly sure some company is behind this manufacturing for several brands and they have a contract with the mall.
So I'd say not per se a bad reputation, it depends what you would go for. I'd say watching Bens videos is a good way for getting to know watches as he's not a snob.
@@magnetpull7587 Very informative, thank you
Festina were merely the sponsors to the Festina cycling team and had no involvement with the day to day running/doping etc in the Tour De France etc. Anyway, great watch I have 2 of these, the same as your review one and a blue dial version, both bought for around £50- £60 a couple of years ago. They are a re-issue almost 1:1 of a 1950's model which was called the Extra. Great value and very true to the original without all the hassle of a vintage piece. Very underrated here in the UK, but very common in Europe.
I had NEVER heard of this brand, and this watch is stunning, especially for the price. Thanks for bringing this brand to light!
I'm from Spain and I'm shocked that so few people seem to know the brand in UK/US. They're everywhere in Spain, also easy to come across in Germany, where I currently live.
I was searching for videos on the brand because I'm currently wearing a Festina that my grandpa used to wear until he passed away last December. Quite scratched but my absolute most precious jewel
Are Sekonda known in Spain?
NOT a fan of quartz watches, but I bought a Festina on a plane as I was impressed with the appearance, the details & finishing of a beautiful day/date calendar watch for about $90. Been swimming with it for a few weeks on that vacation, despite the 50m WR rating (no screw down crown).
3 years later, it works fine, and looks as new. As a bonus, it came on the nicest blue leather strap I ever came across.
It's a thumbs up for this fashion brand and your piece in particular 👍🏿
Interesting. Can you recall the model or serial number? Thx
@@the_9ent I haven't ditched it, better yet, my wife wears it sometimes (for color matching purpose). The model is F16823-3. I wouldn't recommend it, being a rather large quartz watch, but it hasn't disappointed me in the slightest, therefore I have to praise it for what it is 😁
They are not a Fashion brand at all my friend....They have been manufacturing excellent watches for almost 120 years....Maybe now-days they are not actually producing movements as they used to(who does it actually,only few),but still they have a very good brand name,at least in continental Europe....
Yeah I wouldn't get this since its a quartz but I do think it looks really nice.
@@samzx81 Nothing wrong with Quartz mate 👍
It is a very recognised brand here in Spain and my very first watch was a Festina, loved It
Festina is an old Swiss brand bought by lotus of Spain in the 90s,decent watches ,using citizen movements also make automatic watches.a lot of the production is chronos and sports related,I have a couple of multifunction festinas and am very happy with them.probably on the same level as rotary or bulova.
I own couple of Festina watches, and they are all great. And they last very long time. Please buy and review some Festinas that are more then 200 euros and you will see that in their price range they are much better then Seiko and Casio. Sorry for my English. Greetings from Serbia. Keep up the good work.
Dont apologise its pretty good.
Can you give us some reference numbers that you'd recommend?
Predlozi neki za svaki dan :)
Watches that I own are out of production, but I can recommend models like F16760/3, F20515/1, F20519/3, F20367/1, F20524/1, F20010/4, F20007/3, F20010/2, F20448/3, F20378/3...
You are SO right Brate :) Festinas are excellent watches....
As you said, there is no such thing as bad publicity.
I bought my first Festina in Summer 1998 as Richard Virenque and the whole team was banned from participating in the Tour de France.
I had no clue about watches, and Festina was the only recognizable brand in my price range in the little boutique next door.
A very attractive watch design Ben, and affordable too. I think the bracelet is a great choice for this watch.
Thanks for showing us!
I own a Festina quartz watch purchased in 2002 from a small jeweller in Charente-Maritime which I consider to be the most handsome wristwatch I have ever seen.....it's also superbly reliable.
I bought this watch on vacation! I really liked the face , shape and size! Really handsome! It's cool to see a video on it!
While Festina origin is Swiss, since the eighties Festina is an Spanish company. About Festina watches, in my opinion most of them are not targeted to horology 'aficionados' but mainly to customers that demand a quality, yet affordable, watch.
On a leather strap it's a perfect classic (budget) dress watch.
Festina, as a brand, is actually older than Rolex. My blue Festina Chronobike was my second Swiss watch after my Zenith respirator, and I love it.
The Festina has more than a passing resemblance to Omega Seamasters of the '50's and '60's.Check it out online and I'm sure you'll see what I mean..........................
I picked mine up in Spain. They are now a Spanish brand. Although I always thought that they used Seiko movements! Still Miyota are just as reliable and cheap and available for repair if needed.
Great review!🙏👍🙏👍
Festina and Lotus (a brand also member of the Festina group) are the top sellers in Spain.
Just bought my Festina f20531/5 Pepsi Diver Watch. A week before, I was immediately smitten by it and the price was budget friendly for its quality (and it was even on 20% sale).
Now tho, I just wanted to say that it was a money well spent~ . It's stylish, feels like good quality, and looks like a classic without needing to break bank ~
I bought a festina on a plane when I was 16, that was about 18 years ago. It was my daily driver under extreme conditions for about 6 years and it still works. Now knowing that they're manufactured in Switzerland, Spain and Japan I'd definitely feel comfortable spending money on another one.
The first watch I remember seen in my life is the Festina of my dad. It is from 1989, white dial, gold case and leather strap, with "quartz" next to the brand logo. It still works perfectly and the quality of materials and constrution seems to be on the same level of the Seikos we have. Here in Portugal they are very popular specially amongst young people for their prices and curious...they sponsor the Tour of Portugal, so I guess they are still into cycling :p
So the Lance Armstrong of the watch world then? Actually reminds me of a vintage Omega.
Just posted a comment ref. blood tranfusions in hotel bedrooms during the tour de France.Armstrong lost all his jerseys in the following years after confessing. What a wart on the sport.
@@glennpowell3444 You realize everyone was doping right?
Stop talking about cycling like you fucking represent it
@@zgSH4DOW It was a simple comment.Did it hit a nerve? I don't represent the sport but enjoy it as a very keen ex cyclist.Problem?
show us one who is not doping 100 percent.
Festina owns the movement manufacturer Soprod, for those who do not know.
Finally a review on Festina watches on UA-cam! I own a Festina Automatic Diver and love it.
Nice review yet again Ben👍🏼 Having followed cycling most of my life, I’ve known of the Festina brand. The fact a good friend of mine here in rural Victoria, Australia has a family jewellery business & has sold these watches for longer than I care to remember, also helped knowing this brand. I think the aesthetics is great & that stainless steel expandable band is one of the better one’s I’ve seen! Cheers from “Down Under” 🇦🇺
Thanks for being different from other sites. I like seeing watches that aren't on every darn youtube site. I am not a fan of the second hand with a quartz watch, but I really dig the band though.
Had a festina watch for 20 years loved it never missed a beat except when battery needed changing about once a year.lost it tho ,it was a very frustrating and sad day lol
I've rode Harleys with bikers. American Race cars in the 70s as a teenager . Guitars early 2,000s. All pricey hobbies that you go into with a $200 beater now watches. I had no idea watch people who live, eat and sleep watches even existed. Now I' am a old guy & finally have reinvented myself one last time with a luxury classic car my important papers in a brief case & watch addiction. I had no idea of the world I was entering. Just like my guitars you start out with a entry level and end up with a $3,500 guitar Started with a old American Timex now I look at Omegas & Rolex.
If you consider buying from Amazon: I noticed that some cheaper Festina watches I was interested in were from China if you buy from Amazon ("Origin: China") while the same watch was from Japan if you directly buy from Festina. Watches over 100 € were from Spain if you buy from Amazon and from Switzerland (!), if you buy from Festina. Yes, you can save 10 to 20 Euros but the difference in quality is real.
Thanks for the review. I have a Festina from the "Chrono-bike" series. (F16654 / 2) This one has a mineral glass crystal and quartz movement. A good all-round watch for a reasonable price. Purchased from the local jeweler.
This is why I watch your videos, Ben! This is the kinda information I want. I always admired this Tour de France rider called Virenque. He could ride a bike very well. I'm a sportsfan. I always liked the brand, but nowadays the watches are kinda meh. Thanks for the video!
I love the look of this type of old expanding bracelet, but I've heard it pulls hairs like nothing else.
I have never had an expanding bracelet, but I would imagine it would pull hairs.
I have a Swatch branded one and I love it. Can't say it's pulling my hairs much. Would think it just flexes too easily for hairs to get caught anywhere for long.
It's a total pain to adjust for length though; once you have it set, you will dread ever having to adjust it again.
The one here providing micro adjust. would seem a much needed improvement.
Used, German, vintag-y 'Rowi Fixo-Flex' bracelets are plentiful and rather cheap on ebay, so anyone interested could try.
Edit: And - once one has taken apart such a bracelet for adjust. - one might appreciate the mechanical engineering: very clever, clean design this.
Oh yeah
I used to wear watches on such bracelets, they were all vintage ones made in the 70s (oh the joys of having no money for new straps & bracelets). Indeed they aren't too bad when it comes to unwarranted armhair loss but they're arguably the most painful to actually put on since skin can (and will) get stuck in between links whilst doing so if you're not careful.
@@pete5668 It will. I remember finding that old watch my grandfather has had for decades. It was on one of these bracelets. I just wanted to try it on, and already you could "feel the pain".
I also found another video on YT about how these bracelets weren't good for the watch lugs either, since they are expanding and thus pull on the spring bars and spring bar holes.
Those expanding bracelets give major vintage vibes. Love it
I think you don´t need to have worries about using the Festina watches under water. I have Festina chronograph for years and i was swimming with it in pools, sea, ocean...freediving . No problems at all.
Also te Festina watches looks very good for its price. I would buy another one.
Second! And, thanks for being a super help with the Casio W86 fiasco. I've been enjoying it!
I own two Festina watches. An 8810 from about 20 years ago and a new Chrono Bike. Both are awesome watches and I'm surprised they are considered a fashion watch company now by so many people...
I've come across a few of these on amazon for around the £60 mark. Thanks for the review. Not a lot available on UA-cam for this brand, certainly no reviews anyway there are some handheld 30 second or so clips and they look smart enough
Festina is a Spanish company, they are very popular here in Spain (along with Lotus and other brands owned by the same company) never been attracted by their watches, though.
Previously Swiss. Now Spanish.
My bike chrono 14' still runs like a charm after 6 years of abuse as an everyday watch, have to say the watch does look much nicer in person, photos don't do it justice. I think these are very solid mid range watches.
My Dad has two Festina watches, the same model @1:40 in Silver and another in Gold. They are actually very nice watches for the price.
God, it's a good thing the Tour de France cleaned itself up after this incident.
Festina are good watches, Lotus too.
Lotus is Seiko's brand isn't it?
@@emdblues Nije. Deo je Festina grupe zajedno sa Festina, Jaguar, Calypso, Lotus, Candino i jos par nekih nepoznatih marki.
not gonna lie, I really don't even give a single shit about watches, but your videos are so god damn interesting and entertaining
Size, style and bracelet reminds me of a watch my grandfather wears. Not sure if that's good or bad.
Your grandad has good taste 👍
Wish it were hand-winding. Cool video though! Also I'm missing the wrist watch check.
Festina really needs more coverage, especially on their Extra and Classic range. Found them today after we bought a small 20mm Festina Extra for my girlfriend while shopping. It was around $55 on discount and for that price the watch really looks the part. Small, no seconds hand, applied indices and "F" mark, subdued suburst dial... Makes me really want a men's Extra in my collection. Really well made watch and dare I say it, above Casio IF found on discount. Highly recommend seeing them in person.
I own a Calypso which is part of the Festina Group, made in Spain. It's kind of an entry level Festina for much less than 100 euros. Had it for 10 years and it still looks great. The only complaint I have is that the battery seems to wear out too fast.
Festinas are GREAT watches,especially their Chrono Bike models(And I don't think that Festina Watches....doped the cyclists!!!!).Exceptional design and Citizen-Miyota quartz and automatic movements.They are true watches manufacturers,having a long heritage and providing a very big range of watches for every taste.People who snob Festina or most of quartz watches probably wear only Rolex and Omega or....Pagani Design I guess????Horogoly doesn't end with the mechanical watches,we are advancing in technology....Festina is,at least in my own opinion,at the same level or even better from Invicta and far ahead from all the Chinese made fashion brands.For the future I wish we could see some reviews about Accurist,Rotary or Wenger watches.Keep up the good job Ben,Greetings from Greece!!!!
Cool. I find them a little too bling. I see them like Mathey-Tissot, one of those "also ran" Swiss brands now bottom-feeding. Some good stuff, but a lot of meh
Great stuff! Please continue to give more love to quartz watches.
Love cycling but I forget the team now, the riders were having blood transfusions in their hotel rooms. That's serious shit!
Great review! Some years ago I was interested in buying one of these but the list price kept me off (couldn't find any deals at that time). And I'm glad that it did because I ended up buying an Orient Bambino small seconds for the same price as this Festina (talking about the list price) :D Still, I like Festina's watches and as a brand it has a very long tradition. Imo they're better than Scagen, Bering, Mvmt, etc
Cool! I link the bracelet design especially.
Great video Ben! Outstanding work brother!
Bought my first watch Yesterday, and it is Festina Ceramic, I was fall in love at first sight with this watch and it is affordable.
I just bought an automatic Festina, a nice copy of the great ''Rolex Pepsi'', I hope didn't make a mistake by buying it, nice review!
I appreciate the simple elegance of the style of this watch, very reminiscent of the 1950s/early 1960s. Perhaps the logo could be slightly less prominent.
I think that the expanding bracelet well compliments the watch. I like the bracelet in combination with this watch also because it is very distinctive in that expanding watch bands are very rarely seen nowadays.
The length adjustment facility is something I've not seen before on an expanding bracelet and I wonder how well it works in practice. It looks a bit clunky, particularly given that, in my view, the unique attractive feature of expanding bracelets is the absence of a clasp or any other visible mechanism. I suspect that one of the reasons for the marked decline in their popularity is the need to remove/add springs and links to adjust their length for the wrist circumference. In my experience, this is not too difficult with the older Fixoflex brand with the correct pliers, however it looks as if it would be more difficult with this style of band as the U-shaped springs connecting the links do not appear to be exposed.
Absolutely adore the look, it remind me a lot to a couple of seiko or a citizen's vintage pieces ❤️
Thanks for a Festina video! I actually have one of these I totally forgot about haha
I really love that vintage look, and that vintage sizing. I think I'll have a look at some Festinas...
An elegant watch, by an elegant and historic watch company sold to you by a very dapper man. Bellisimo my friend.
My father still owns Festina bycicle dress that was all the rage in the 1990s....
Festina happens to be the most popular watch brand in Spain and in most parts of Latin America.
The Spanish owned Festina Group incorporates 5 brands.
Festina itself entertains a huge catalogue with 100s of different models accompanied by their more upmarket 'Lotus' brand and their kids/budget plastic watch line 'Calypso'.
Top of the line are their swiss made brands 'Candino' and 'Jaguar'.
The MSRP of those never exceed £$€ 1500.- though.
Most of their "bread and butter" models are made in China (Hong Kong).
As a life-long cycling nut, and a collector of watches for almost as long, I can't remember a time in the last 25 years or so, that I haven't had at least one Festina in my possession. This is a cracking little looker, and if they did an auto version I'd be on it like a fly to sh*t!.
And for all those who wince at the thought of a couple of hairs being pulled out by that bracelet ..... Grow a pair!.😉
Don't cyclists shave all their hair?
@@Myaccisbanned NOt all of it!.
I got a Festina after watching your review. It's a beautiful piece, casual with a whiskey leather strap and I'm actually very happy with it. Yes, I would buy a Festina, and I did. Thanks.
On a leather strap I think this watch would have a very similar look to the Gruen 510 that Sean Connery wore in the casino scene of Dr No. I’d be quite tempted to give it a try.
reminds me of a vintage omega model... might buy one 🤔
I have had a Festina 6698/4 for many years. I think I have changed the batteries three times. It still holds up and have nothing to complain about.
I have a super slim Festina F16260, now sadly discontinued. Wonderful time-piece. They still make elegant watches and I think they are Casio-level, quality and price-wise.
I know nothing about that watch company. However it is a great looking watch. I wouldn't mind getting my hands on that bracelet. I've got a few watches that bracelet would look awesome on. Nice review of this piece.
Festinas are all over the place here in Spain. They're pretty standard mall watch shop fare. Call me a watch snob but when I see cases of quartz watches from the same brand in every style imaginable I just kind of tune them out. (Honestly, I have that same reaction to Tissot, which I know is considered a higher end brand. ) I like the vintage aesthetic of this particular one and 60 something pounds isn't outrageous for it. But with a little searching you could get an actual watch from that era, maybe get it serviced at a watchmaker, and have a watch with a lot more character. A vintage hand-winding watch from a lesser known brand can be had for pretty cheap. However, that can be a hassle and this watch does nail that 50s/60s look. I can't shake that mall watch vibe from the brand, though.
I bought one to pair up with my suit and shoes for brothers wedding without knowing anything about watches.
Have it dor 5 years. Not a single problem.
Beautiful watch.
HELP PLEASE. Is it a good idea to buy this model (with the metal strap) and buy also the leather strap to have both options?? ??
Hi Ben,
Some time ago, you made a video about a Casio Sapphire watch as a good replacement for a similar Daniel Wellington. Nowadays, that Casio watch is impossible to find. After your Festina’s video I checked their website and they have a similar one with sapphire glass: FESTINA SWISS MADE COLLECTION WATCH F20012/3 BLUE, LEATHER STRAP, MAN. Any opinions?
The watch looks like a version of Longines Flagship.
Ditto
Thanks for the review, great help
First time hearing about this brand! Not a bad looking piece!
I got this on Valentine's :D(after request). I dig vintage. Shame that this kind of style isnt more popular, but on the other hand we can get outlet deals because nobody seem to want them..
Hi Ben
Need some suggestions regarding Casio watches
I have Casio F-91W and A-158 .. but I am considering to purchase another Casio watch around 20 to 30 bucks
Can u suggest few watches ?
Thanks
For 70 quid, that's not too bad. I would rather get something from Orient though, like the tristar, or maybe one of the sapphire casio ones. 70 for a quartz watch with no sapphire is not really worth it for me.
i'm also wearing the same casio efv-100d* as you. high five?
*i know it's the 110 version but still
I've just come across a watch on Amazon that I thought you might like (I kinda like it myself). It's the Accurist 7219. English brand, quartz, 40mm and sapphire crystal. All for 70 quid! Looks quite smart as well.
Im in dilemma help😂 Would you rather have a Festina with Ronda movement or a Casio edifice with i don't know what japanese movement?
It comes standard on a Spiedel stretchy band ??
The acrylic is great, easy to polish out scratches !
Ooooh. I like this. Mid century design and size to match. Steal at £60. Thanks Ben 👏
My father in law has had a festina chronograph for many years and he loves it
I really want one of their Swiss made watches but they do not deliver to the UK. I have seen them on House of Watches though, a UK website. Are you familiar with this seller and know if they are any good?
Festina watches are rare in UA-cam, to not say "non existent", which is odd considering they have been the official timekeepers of the Tour de France 🇫🇷 despite their cycling team faux pas.
I own 2 quartz, a chronograph and a casual day to day one. They have proven to be good watches going on the same price as many Fossils, and would gladly go Festina over a fashion watch, although I concur on the pricing issue: for what they regularly cost, I'd go seiko.
Hola Bens y suscriptores, me llama mucho la atención el Reloj: Festina F20531/3, que opinan de el? me lo recomiendan?
It reminds me of a watch that Sean Connery wore in You Only Live Twice, a Gruen that was supposedly owned by Connery himself
I bought a Festina about 9 months ago and I am happy with it. Very affordable
me lo compre hace menos de un mes y la verdad ..me ha enamorado desde el primer segundo que lo vi...
I bought a Festina about ten years ago, still have it today. It's the F16354 in brown. Even paid full price for it. I was a moron back then.
Not available in the U.S. on this day from any sellers via Amazon. Ebay, for about $87 U.S., but $27 shipping.
Hey mate 👋 im a fan. Can I ask for a review of the Casio w218h? I just badly need an expert's opinion on this. Thanks
Love the look of this! Good review.
Great watch to wear out biking..
I happened to buy one just the other week! I got the purple sunburst dial on leather. Love it 🤩👍😎!
@@Mannin_Watch_Time The word banned attracted me right off the bat.... Anything banned is usually good.
The quality of finishing looks amazing and is certainly a challenge to Orient Bambino.. but having said that, I somehow find the logo distracting especially at that position. Kind of looks like a date window but its not :/