Classic Military Pieces - this has got to be one of the best niches in the watch hobby... From 5517's, 165.024's, Type XX's, Barakuda's? They all represent something different AND have been massively influential. What MilSpec piece from the 1940's - 1970's speaks to you the most?
I also had a Timex Ironman, it was my first watch when I became a corrections officer in 1998 and yes it was a great watch.. It’s been all Casio and G- Shock ever since.
@@ID-GuyIn your opinion and experience, will automatic and quartz watches disappear and smart watches will rise, or will automatic watches remain stronger than smart watches and will remain and not disappear??????
I wish this video ran twice, or even three times its length. So good. I so, so look forward to your videos. I’m going through the most difficult period, and i fond solace and comfort here with you. Thank you.
And re-reviewing the video (now that it's done) I wish I'd added another 5 pieces to this. I'm sorry to hear you're going through a tough time Alex, truly. Whatever it is, however long it takes, we can bear it, that's what makes us men. Much love brother 🥃
After my issued Benrus gave out from being constantly immersed in mud during monsoon season, I got a Zodiac Sea Wolf at the PX, and it served me well for the rest of my tour and a couple of decades beyond back in the real world.
I was so close to adding the Zodiac in here (actually mentioned it in my America forces video from like 3 years ago) similar to the Glycine Airman… the real heroes behind the scenes 😉 Thank you sharing this sir! 🥃
This is it. The ultimate kind of watches. Military designs have influenced watches sooo much over the years. I am happy to own a Marvin 1940s ww2 watch. And i recently bought an Air ministry from Eddie. Regards from Sweden
This is my favorite genre of watches as it brings back memories of my military service and speaking of memories, this video presentation brings back memories of the early days of your channel when we were treated to a regular regimen of military watches. I’m thinking there should be at least a part 3 if not part 4 to this series. Well done as always my friend! Enjoy your weekend 🥃
And it’s always a blast to share these Ian. The reception has been amazing! Here I’m wishing I added 5 more pieces… Heuer 3H 😮💨 Guess that’ll have to be in Part 2 🔥
A cracking video IDGuy. Not only are your videos a pleasure to watch but are also educational. My takeaway from this one is the influence drawn from the military tools that have inspired more modern designs. Many thanks for sharing and I look forward to the next part.
And is always a pleasure to share these Anthony. I only wish the editing was quicker to do 😆 It’s unreal how many hours go into a video that’s just 10 minutes long (Alas) Have a superb weekend sir! 🥃
What a killer piece and a helluva watch to remember your father by. If Omega dropped that model with a matching date wheel? Oh boy… they’d be celebrated! 🔥
I would include the Seiko 7A28-7120 in the next video - Powered by the world’s first quartz analogue chronograph movement, and epresents peak Quartz Crisis in its specs - 15 jewel, antimagnetic, able to be serviced and regulated. - The first Seiko contracted by the British MoD, beating out CWC (and never again would CWC win an RAF contract) - bears the broad arrow mark - It just looks amazing.
100% on point with the Seiko Zach, I know it well! Gen 1 in all its glory. True story? A buddy of mine (Thomas, he's often on the channel) in high-school traded a pack of cigarettes for one, still has it to this day. Promethium dials 🔥
@@ID-GuyTwo years ago I bought a Pulsar Military Style Chronograph Watch PM3129X1 - Formally and Enhanced PJN305X1, bought for £70 new from Amazon. it’s a civilian version based on the Seiko Gen 2 chronograph. Reading the reviews, a number of professional pilots & ex RAF seem to like it. There is now a Lorus civilian version based on the Seiko Gen 2
@@ID-Guy I'm also extremely biased because the RAF Gen 1 was actually my very first Seiko - Back in 2021, I was in my final year of university and was looking for a graduation present for myself. I was browsing Seikos and by sheer chance I ended up reading about the Gen 1 and Gen 2. I saw a picture of the Gen 1 and immediately decided "yes, that's the one I want". Found a semi-decent example from 1986 on ebay for 850 pounds (which was a lot of money as a student), and an additional 150 pounds to service it once it arrived in tropical Singapore. Since then it's been the 'one I bring out for special occasions".
The Lemania monopusher is probably my favorite military watch! I wish other companies would take inspiration from it and bring a modern interpretation to the table. An absolute babe of a watch!
And that clean, cleeeeean white dial? It’s unreal, right? Freaking love the simplicity of it (and where the monopusher is placed) - spot-on that more brands should be pulling ideas from this piece. Think Bremont actually did something with it once upon a time (if that’s anything 😆🥃)
@@ID-Guy I agree, but is the Bremont arrow a clean substitute? The lugs and profile are chunky, the price is heafty. You can add a k more and get the real deal (in black). one can only dream...and keep saving
CWC have just brought out a pretty much bang on reproduction of this piece 2BB I think it’s called. Or for more of a modern interpretation have a look at the Vertex MP45.
An excellent presentation thank you for all your hard work. Your channel is my favorite among the watch channels, no B.S. and straight to the point. I am also a retired correction officer, I retired 5 months ago after 26 years. Our preferred watches on the job were usually G Shock, Casio, Timex. Maybe you can do a presentation on watches for Law enforcement/ first responders if you haven’t already. It will probably similar to the military watches.
Fun video! Can’t wait for part two. I just realized I have only purchased military watches since my introduction to the hobby…didn’t even try to do that. That makes this video my jam and perhaps a blueprint for future purchases.
There’s just that X-factor that so many of these pieces have (that most lack) Ah, they’re too good. And it’s a pleasure to share these man. Thank you 🥃
Right ….. let’s get this guy across the 100k subs line . Get everyone you know to Subscribe…. Everyone. People you meet in the street … tell them … people who hate watches ? … tell them … tell your pets … etc ;) That room is desperately needing a silver you tube award on the wall . Let’s do it by Christmas!
Great list, looking forward to the more modern ones (and a mention to one of my favourite watches, the Citizen NY0040). My top 6 would be the Blancpain, Dirty Dozens, Breguet, Omega, Benrus and Tudor.
Thank you for dropping this show tonight. Very interesting - I've told Lord Tickers that tonight's episode will be his cup of tea. I bet he has already queued this up.
And naturally I wish it had been a longer video with at least 5 more pieces… alas, editing and time crunching only gets you so far in a week 😆 Thank you as always Chilli! 🥃
Thank you brother ;) of course I feel like I missed tonnes of pieces (and I did) BUT got about 80% of the ones I wanted to come in this. Part 2 is going to get serious 😉🥃
Think you did great. They all look amazing. It is the function over looks that makes them beautiful. It is difficult to keep things simple and efficient. Having the old dive watches in mind made me pick the Omega Planet Ocean years ago.
And of course now that the video is done and I can finally step back and see what I did... so I regret not including the Longines Majetek, Heuer 3H, Glashutte SeaQ etc etc... the job is never done 😉
Thank you for this one! Amazing content for time piece lovers and thanks to this content, I did learn a lot. Thanks! Great one! I did own the Longines zech military watch which was brief shown in this content! Loved that one and miss it and regret I let it go.
I should’ve added the Majetek and Heuer 3H as two others… kicking myself I didn’t include them 😆 BUT my pleasure to share this and it’s even better to hear that you learnt something from the clip! Thank you brother 🥃
Amazingly in-depth, as always! Small addition to the Tornek-Rayville name history: “Rayville” wasn’t specifically created for this scenario-it was actually Blancpain’s legal corporate name since 1932. After the last Blancpain family member passed away, the new owners Betty Fiechter and André Leal had to rename the corporate entity, due to Swiss laws. They picked the phonetic anagram of Villeret, "Rayville" for the company, while continuing to use Blancpain as the brand for their watches. So when Mr. Tornek partnered with Blancpain to supply the legendary watches to the U.S. Navy, he named the watch brand after the two companies that partnered to make it happen: Tornek + Rayville
Rambo for the first time! NOTHING IS OVER! 🔥 Great flick. Oh the Military Sub… you’ve got a lot to study ;) Look up - Rolex A6538 & 5517, two of the most notable. And dig deeper into Omega’s 165.024, the “prototype” that made the Milsub what it is 🥃
Cracker of an upload IDGuy. Congrats. It's a great list - pretty hard to argue with your selection. You showed some medal of bravery worthy dash listing them numerically and not whimping out with the 'in no particular order' caveat. ☻ I certainly wouldn't complain if someone gifted me an RAAF issued IWC Mk. XI. In fact that alongside one of the Certina DS -3's that were issued to the RAN Clearance Diving Team (very fond of that watch) and an Australian issued Lemania chronograph would probably do it for me - I'd need to find another hobby! Really enjoyed that, thanks. Enjoy the rest of the weekend. 🫡
I tried my best to be "fair" with the ranking... bloody hard (but you can be objective with many of these, right?) Like nobody will choose a W.W.W over a Mark XI...and choosing a Barakuda? Now that I think about it, maybe that should've been 3rd spot and Omega in 4th 😉 Freaking love that XI piece man. And to think Jaeger made a batch that were even more stealthy 🔥
Fabulous idea for a series. I am such huge fan of these military spec and military driven watches. Hearing the origins and summaries of these excellent watches is so satisfying. I love the Tudor Snowflake, the Seamaster 300, the type B pilots watches, the Breitling AVI 765 and Breguet Type 20. One could really make a spectacular collection just from watches on this list alone.
It would be an unreal collection, right, just imagine? I’ve been fortunate to get hands on time with a few in the past… and just seeing a Milsub next to a 165.024 is bad enough 🔥 adding a Type XX & Lemania III to that? It’s just unfair! 🥃
I've been toying with the livestream idea all year (and think that Winter of all the seasons would be excellent - maybe, just maybe I'll get my arse back in the seat 😉) But you're 100% on it, EZM's, CWC's and all the rest getting into the "Modern" series! 🔥
I've got a 165.024 and just picked up a Seaweedmaster. While I like the latter, if Omega ever releases something close to the Seamaster unit watches to the public, the Seaweed is on the sale block and I'm running to get the new hotness.
Great list and ranking! Makes me miss some watches that are part of this video I no longer own. The Willard, Vertex M100A, Longines Weems Pilot Watch L2.606.4, a Helson Sharkmaster (homage to the big triangle Omega M.O.D. SM300) to name a few. Looking forward to Part 2!
You cheeky bugger, you totally planned IWC Mark XI on 11 XDDDDD A very good vid as always! But where's omega RAF 53 thin arrow man? One of my favorite omega watches out there. But man that Panerai is wild! Also I love that trivia about no lume on submarine crew watch, very interesting!
Kid you not, as I was recording I noticed, paused, did the maths... "oh cool, it was meant to be" then carried on recording 😆 AND the '53 Omega (threw in the fat arrow) ;) ...my head is just a vessel for useless information like "Barakuda spelt "wrong" on Blancpain casebacks" 🥃
@@ID-Guy Well the other day, I learned how to read those codes on caseback on MOD/NATO issued watches, so we are cut from the same cloth lol But duuuuude, thin arrow is where it's at, fat arrow was repainted by MOD themselves and not Omega (but safer at least) Can't understand they didn't proofread Barakuda tbh XDDDDD You know when you think about it, it's pretty wild that companies like Lange and Blancpain supplying military watches, because today, we regard them as fine watchmakers with sophistication and all that, but they made those rugged tool watches back in the days.
To say that this is right up your alley is something of an understatement! This is the definitive guide to this niche of timepieces. Bloody brilliant if I may say so myself I’m surprised and delighted you rated the type xx so high. I think number 3 for me Ooooh that gets the juices well and truly flowing I look forward to the next instalment!
The joke is the recording was well over an hour 😆 Only 15 or so minutes were really usable, the rest are blunders, rambling and whatever else. But hey, editing is a beautiful tool. Thank you brother ;)
And I wish I’d made it longer (with at least 5 others I missed… Benrus Type 1, Heuer 3H, Longines Majetek to name a few) Ah well, 15 will have to do 😉🥃 Thank you brother
AMZWATCH is one of my favorite watch manufacturers they do offer beautifull dials, good workmanship & moovements.That smooth sweeping second hand is truly mesmerizing！
Can’t beat gold polished Roman numerals that sparkle like jewels in the sunlight. Loving the sun ray dial man that pops!MAMACOO watches. What a beautiful subtle piece.
All from memory? No way. Quite impressive. Blancpain is located in Villeret. So when Tornek named their brand, they chose Rayville as an undercover nod to Blancpains home town. As I understand it. Great video. Just saved it to my reference files. Cheers
I wouldn’t recommend listening to my videos from 4 years back (do so at your own peril) highly scripted, audio was always spotty 😆 But… I did cover many, many more pieces. Thanks a ton Will 🥃
Brilliant focussed presentation on military watches. I’m a fan of military watches but didn’t realise the scope and breadth of designs out there. What a cornucopia!
This is a great video! I love your explanations of the design features as well as the history lessons. This is the sort of material that makes the watch hobby fun. Thank you.
Great list and video my friend you are my go to channel for classy and concise content personally I have been hunting for the Omega big triangle for decades and have found it to be very difficult to locate one in which it would not cost me a small fortune to bring back to its former glory but I don't plan on giving up anytime soon Be well Keep em coming my friend and Big blessings 👍
Absolutely fantastic video, thank you for sharing with us. I was a little sad not to see CWC make the cut though; one of my all time favourite watch brands and 100% true to the tool watch philosophy. EDIT: Forgive me, maybe CWC will come in Part 2 😊
Excellent work! Just enough detail to peak future search interest. Everyone of the watches are great examples that provide the foundation for military men and women to be accurately time on target.
I know it’s nowhere near high end horology but whether we like or not the majority of armed forces units use G-Shocks. They are built like tanks - can take absolutely ANYTHING - and are fairly cheap and easily available. Especially the DW-6600 and 6900 are iconic in the field and used to be standard issue in the US Navy Seals. Great and very informative video though. Loved it!!
@@ID-Guy sweeet can’t wait for that. You’re my favorite watch channel. I learn so much history and trivia behind the design aspect of the watches you feature and that is something I cannot find anywhere, in some cases not even in forums or Rolex Magazines etc. Every UA-camr focuses primarily on the watches looks and brochure features plus movement (which is cool) but almost no one digs behind the story of what made those features thought out and implemented in the first place and even more what its iteration of any iconic model (eg: Sub or Speedy) brought to the table and for what reason. Thank you 🙏 Now for example I am trying to find information on Explorer 2 and on which real case of speleology exploration, mountaineering or arctic expedition was used. Rolex says that speleologist and mountaineers use those watches and although I would love for it to be trueI, I am finding very hard to believe those people (with mostly down to earth salaries) would invest on an $9,000+ watch to take it some of the most environmentally hostile places on earth. So trying to find real examples. If you got any info pls share it with us. Again thank you for your contribution keep on making great videos!!
Excellent video thank you. I learned a lot. Chuckled when the picture of the Panerai on the wrist popped up, that thing is a beast! Not sure if you are going to cover it but it would be cool to to see a video on modern interpretations of the classic military watches. The most authentic, most heritage, how they changed, etc.
My favorite 2024 is the Prospex Limited Edition 1965 Recreation European Exclusive in Gradation Island Blue. The dial is stunning and the contrast when on a white strap is to die for. I will get my hands on one from AMZWATCH
As always a great video. Many of the watches I did not know of, you sir did your homework !! If I had more time I would tell you about my watch that i wore while serving, it wouldn't make your list, but it might make you laugh out loud ...
Watch are the ultimate Men's accesories！Enjoyed watching your collection. Keep going！As a watch enthusiast and watch reviewer, I can say AMZWATCH this was a great choice. Enjoyed your video!
got my 39mm with the white dial on the 3-link "Bader" bracelet watch on AMZWATCH 3 weeks ago and am loving it to pieces. Absolute fantastic watch that wears super comfortable on my 6.75 inch wrist. Chose the 3-link over the 5-link bracelet for the toolless quick adjustment. Way more comfortable than my Longines Hydroconquest 41 mm.
As a person who also very much in love with digital watches, I would also add the Casio G-Shock series watches which are readily available to soldiers of all ranks at every store on military bases.
There’s something refreshing about old military watches that just has lasting appeal. They’re elegantly simple and functional without being ugly (sorry g shock I still love you) but also a bit more honest about being tools. As much as I love the beautiful subtle flourishes in watches from brands like IWC, Omega, Rolex, Blancpain, and even JLC they do sometimes feel too nice for their original purpose. A 5517 milsub reissue would be amazing but Rolex has lost its sense of fun and I’m sure the availability/markup would be ridiculous but I can dream. Great list
A great presentation! I am surprised that you didn’t mention the A11. You might say the UK equivalent, the WWW, covers the battleground, but I think the A11 should be somewhere on the list. Just to prove that I am not simply a prejudiced Yank, I think the ATP small seconds watch belongs on the list as well as the GSTP pocket watches produced during the same era. I have previously written for WOE on the watches of the SOE and OSS and I was never able to find a photo of an SOE or SAS operator in WWII or their counterparts with a WWW watch. Instead, it was always a white dial ATP. Cheers, mate JR Seeger Old warrior, even older novelist
Great point on the A11, I actually did have a think about where it would’ve placed in the “Ranking” and next to the WWW’s? I would’ve probably put it at #16… is that bad? ;) Love Benrus’ though… gotta say if it wasn’t for the TR900, the Type 1 would’ve made it. And thank you for sharing these details about the SOE with me (I had no idea - no surprises there really) 😆🥃
@@ID-Guy SOE men and women needed a reliable timepiece but most their operations were finished in the ETO by the time the WWW timepieces arrived in the inventory. I never could find a photo that was terribly useful about SOE in the CBI other than noticing they were all white faced watches. The recent series Rogue Heroes (based on Ben Macintyre’s book) worked hard at the right equipment. You will notice if you see a watch at all, it will be a cream or white faced field watch. As to the A11, I understand why you couldn’t duplicate the same style once you had WWW watches listed. A great video and I am always interested in your discussions even though most modern watches are way out of my budget. I missed the train in 1984 when I could buy a Rolex Submariner or AirKing at the PX for one month’s salary. Ma’alesh.
Classic Military Pieces - this has got to be one of the best niches in the watch hobby...
From 5517's, 165.024's, Type XX's, Barakuda's? They all represent something different AND have been massively influential.
What MilSpec piece from the 1940's - 1970's speaks to you the most?
@@ID-Guy
Have you thought about writing blogs?
If Omega ever made the 165.024 big triangle reissue I’d sell my sub!
@@underachievingwatchcollect1878 not the only person who would do this
Not trying to be funny, but I wore a Timex Ironman during my time in uniform. It was great!
I’m looking forward to covering the more “modern” pieces ;) But man, they don’t need to be complex to be enjoyed, right? 🥃
I also had a Timex Ironman, it was my first watch when I became a corrections officer in 1998 and yes it was a great watch.. It’s been all Casio and G- Shock ever since.
In the modern era, that is the type of watch the military or almost certainly going to be wearing, G-SHOCK ALL THE WAY
Yup; they gave me a few G-Shocks & Iron Mans throughout my career. These watches worked really well!
Terrific presentation! One of my favorite watch analysts who deserves a silver plaque on his wall. Well done. LtCol, USAF, Retired.
Thank you as always Doc, very humbling as always (had no idea about your past - freaking unreal) 😉🥃
Thank you for your service!
@@ID-GuyIn your opinion and experience, will automatic and quartz watches disappear and smart watches will rise, or will automatic watches remain stronger than smart watches and will remain and not disappear??????
I wish this video ran twice, or even three times its length. So good. I so, so look forward to your videos. I’m going through the most difficult period, and i fond solace and comfort here with you. Thank you.
And re-reviewing the video (now that it's done) I wish I'd added another 5 pieces to this. I'm sorry to hear you're going through a tough time Alex, truly. Whatever it is, however long it takes, we can bear it, that's what makes us men. Much love brother 🥃
Fantasically interesting history - many thanks for sharing!
After my issued Benrus gave out from being constantly immersed in mud during monsoon season, I got a Zodiac Sea Wolf at the PX, and it served me well for the rest of my tour and a couple of decades beyond back in the real world.
I was so close to adding the Zodiac in here (actually mentioned it in my America forces video from like 3 years ago) similar to the Glycine Airman… the real heroes behind the scenes 😉 Thank you sharing this sir! 🥃
This is it. The ultimate kind of watches. Military designs have influenced watches sooo much over the years. I am happy to own a Marvin 1940s ww2 watch. And i recently bought an Air ministry from Eddie. Regards from Sweden
This is my favorite genre of watches as it brings back memories of my military service and speaking of memories, this video presentation brings back memories of the early days of your channel when we were treated to a regular regimen of military watches. I’m thinking there should be at least a part 3 if not part 4 to this series. Well done as always my friend! Enjoy your weekend 🥃
A fantastic montage of great masterpieces and a history lesson also. Looking forward to part 2 , great work yet again as always 👍👏👍👏
And it’s always a blast to share these Ian. The reception has been amazing! Here I’m wishing I added 5 more pieces… Heuer 3H 😮💨 Guess that’ll have to be in Part 2 🔥
@@ID-Guy Always the option to go with a 3 part mini series Lol 😂
A cracking video IDGuy. Not only are your videos a pleasure to watch but are also educational. My takeaway from this one is the influence drawn from the military tools that have inspired more modern designs. Many thanks for sharing and I look forward to the next part.
And is always a pleasure to share these Anthony. I only wish the editing was quicker to do 😆 It’s unreal how many hours go into a video that’s just 10 minutes long (Alas) Have a superb weekend sir! 🥃
I have an Omega Seamaster ref 166024 from my dad. It is a incredible watch and I still wear it
What a killer piece and a helluva watch to remember your father by. If Omega dropped that model with a matching date wheel? Oh boy… they’d be celebrated! 🔥
I would include the Seiko 7A28-7120 in the next video
- Powered by the world’s first quartz analogue chronograph movement, and epresents peak Quartz Crisis in its specs - 15 jewel, antimagnetic, able to be serviced and regulated.
- The first Seiko contracted by the British MoD, beating out CWC (and never again would CWC win an RAF contract) - bears the broad arrow mark
- It just looks amazing.
100% on point with the Seiko Zach, I know it well! Gen 1 in all its glory. True story? A buddy of mine (Thomas, he's often on the channel) in high-school traded a pack of cigarettes for one, still has it to this day. Promethium dials 🔥
@@ID-GuyTwo years ago I bought a Pulsar Military Style Chronograph Watch PM3129X1 - Formally and Enhanced PJN305X1, bought for £70 new from Amazon. it’s a civilian version based on the Seiko Gen 2 chronograph. Reading the reviews, a number of professional pilots & ex RAF seem to like it. There is now a Lorus civilian version based on the Seiko Gen 2
@@ID-Guy I'm also extremely biased because the RAF Gen 1 was actually my very first Seiko - Back in 2021, I was in my final year of university and was looking for a graduation present for myself. I was browsing Seikos and by sheer chance I ended up reading about the Gen 1 and Gen 2. I saw a picture of the Gen 1 and immediately decided "yes, that's the one I want". Found a semi-decent example from 1986 on ebay for 850 pounds (which was a lot of money as a student), and an additional 150 pounds to service it once it arrived in tropical Singapore. Since then it's been the 'one I bring out for special occasions".
The Lemania monopusher is probably my favorite military watch! I wish other companies would take inspiration from it and bring a modern interpretation to the table. An absolute babe of a watch!
And that clean, cleeeeean white dial? It’s unreal, right? Freaking love the simplicity of it (and where the monopusher is placed) - spot-on that more brands should be pulling ideas from this piece. Think Bremont actually did something with it once upon a time (if that’s anything 😆🥃)
@@ID-Guy I agree, but is the Bremont arrow a clean substitute? The lugs and profile are chunky, the price is heafty. You can add a k more and get the real deal (in black). one can only dream...and keep saving
CWC have just brought out a pretty much bang on reproduction of this piece 2BB I think it’s called. Or for more of a modern interpretation have a look at the Vertex MP45.
@@ProfessorPesca interesting. Can you reference the CWC watch please? I can’t find it online
An excellent presentation thank you for all your hard work. Your channel is my favorite among the watch channels, no B.S. and straight to the point. I am also a retired correction officer, I retired 5 months ago after 26 years. Our preferred watches on the job were usually G Shock, Casio, Timex. Maybe you can do a presentation on watches for Law enforcement/ first responders if you haven’t already. It will probably similar to the military watches.
the blanc pain baracuda is one I never heard of and is really cool. Obviously the Rolex and the Tudor are the "MacDaddy" for me.
They reissued it a few years ago too but I was way too broke then. I wish they’d keep them as a regular production
Fantastic! All of them are great, but hard to acquire. Can't wait for part II.
Extremely hard to find them (and in spotless condition) - Part II will be way more "attainable" - but that's not saying much haha! Thank you Marcus 🥃
Appreciate the video. It’s a quick and dirty explanation on why watches from the many brands all looks the same
Brief, concise and great to view 😊
Fun video! Can’t wait for part two.
I just realized I have only purchased military watches since my introduction to the hobby…didn’t even try to do that. That makes this video my jam and perhaps a blueprint for future purchases.
There’s just that X-factor that so many of these pieces have (that most lack) Ah, they’re too good. And it’s a pleasure to share these man. Thank you 🥃
Need part 2!
Right ….. let’s get this guy across the 100k subs line . Get everyone you know to Subscribe…. Everyone. People you meet in the street … tell them … people who hate watches ? … tell them … tell your pets … etc ;)
That room is desperately needing a silver you tube award on the wall .
Let’s do it by Christmas!
I'll just have to go down the route of buying subscribers ...OR eBaying a Silver Award and phoning it in! 😆🥃
@@ID-Guy we will get you an A - Express one ….hang it at an angle..
Great list, looking forward to the more modern ones (and a mention to one of my favourite watches, the Citizen NY0040).
My top 6 would be the Blancpain, Dirty Dozens, Breguet, Omega, Benrus and Tudor.
The CWC pilot chronograph mechanical started me in the hobby thirty years ago.Its now vintage and price being asked amazes me but never to be sold.
Thank you for dropping this show tonight. Very interesting - I've told Lord Tickers that tonight's episode will be his cup of tea. I bet he has already queued this up.
And naturally I wish it had been a longer video with at least 5 more pieces… alas, editing and time crunching only gets you so far in a week 😆 Thank you as always Chilli! 🥃
Fantastic video, looking forward to Pt 2. Thank you.
Thank you brother ;) of course I feel like I missed tonnes of pieces (and I did) BUT got about 80% of the ones I wanted to come in this. Part 2 is going to get serious 😉🥃
Best watch channel on UA-cam, always enjoy your content.
Think you did great. They all look amazing. It is the function over looks that makes them beautiful. It is difficult to keep things simple and efficient.
Having the old dive watches in mind made me pick the Omega Planet Ocean years ago.
And of course now that the video is done and I can finally step back and see what I did... so I regret not including the Longines Majetek, Heuer 3H, Glashutte SeaQ etc etc... the job is never done 😉
There are always different insights in every we do, even when we do them well. The seaQ (also the current ones) are great, forgot they are military.
@IDGuy no point in regrets. Just means more fodder for future content.
You can run with this for a while!
I knew omega would be very highly placed, this was great to watch and ill be looking out for part two,. Cheers very enjoyable.
Those Top 3… phew. Imagine owning that trio? Only regret is I didn’t cover the Heuer 3H (and Longines Majetek) 😉 My pleasure to share Darren 🥃
Thank you for this one! Amazing content for time piece lovers and thanks to this content, I did learn a lot. Thanks! Great one!
I did own the Longines zech military watch which was brief shown in this content! Loved that one and miss it and regret I let it go.
I should’ve added the Majetek and Heuer 3H as two others… kicking myself I didn’t include them 😆 BUT my pleasure to share this and it’s even better to hear that you learnt something from the clip! Thank you brother 🥃
Amazingly in-depth, as always! Small addition to the Tornek-Rayville name history: “Rayville” wasn’t specifically created for this scenario-it was actually Blancpain’s legal corporate name since 1932. After the last Blancpain family member passed away, the new owners Betty Fiechter and André Leal had to rename the corporate entity, due to Swiss laws. They picked the phonetic anagram of Villeret, "Rayville" for the company, while continuing to use Blancpain as the brand for their watches. So when Mr. Tornek partnered with Blancpain to supply the legendary watches to the U.S. Navy, he named the watch brand after the two companies that partnered to make it happen: Tornek + Rayville
Videos like this push my interest in watches further than I thought possible.
I'll look for some of these for sale now 👍
Last night I watched Rambo for the first time and now I’m here. I’ve never seen the Rolex submariner with sword hands and they look awesome!
Rambo for the first time! NOTHING IS OVER! 🔥 Great flick. Oh the Military Sub… you’ve got a lot to study ;) Look up - Rolex A6538 & 5517, two of the most notable. And dig deeper into Omega’s 165.024, the “prototype” that made the Milsub what it is 🥃
Cracker of an upload IDGuy. Congrats. It's a great list - pretty hard to argue with your selection. You showed some medal of bravery worthy dash listing them numerically and not whimping out with the 'in no particular order' caveat. ☻
I certainly wouldn't complain if someone gifted me an RAAF issued IWC Mk. XI. In fact that alongside one of the Certina DS -3's that were issued to the RAN Clearance Diving Team (very fond of that watch) and an Australian issued Lemania chronograph would probably do it for me - I'd need to find another hobby!
Really enjoyed that, thanks.
Enjoy the rest of the weekend.
🫡
I tried my best to be "fair" with the ranking... bloody hard (but you can be objective with many of these, right?) Like nobody will choose a W.W.W over a Mark XI...and choosing a Barakuda? Now that I think about it, maybe that should've been 3rd spot and Omega in 4th 😉 Freaking love that XI piece man. And to think Jaeger made a batch that were even more stealthy 🔥
Fabulous idea for a series. I am such huge fan of these military spec and military driven watches. Hearing the origins and summaries of these excellent watches is so satisfying. I love the Tudor Snowflake, the Seamaster 300, the type B pilots watches, the Breitling AVI 765 and Breguet Type 20. One could really make a spectacular collection just from watches on this list alone.
It would be an unreal collection, right, just imagine? I’ve been fortunate to get hands on time with a few in the past… and just seeing a Milsub next to a 165.024 is bad enough 🔥 adding a Type XX & Lemania III to that? It’s just unfair! 🥃
Nice one. Being the chronohound I would’ve put the type xx at no 1 but can’t argue with the 5517. I’d sell my left one for one of those
I LOVE UR VIDEOS. PLEASE KEEP DOING MORE VIDEOS ON MILSPEC WATCHES IE ROLEX TUDOR OMEGA SEIKO BLANCPAIN TORNEK-RAYVILLE BULOVA ECT
Thine will be done brother 😉 Thank you so much man 🥃
Ive been waiting for one of these deep dives as noone does it better..bravo..!
Next stop..long form weekend show maybe?
Ezm in part 2..?
I've been toying with the livestream idea all year (and think that Winter of all the seasons would be excellent - maybe, just maybe I'll get my arse back in the seat 😉) But you're 100% on it, EZM's, CWC's and all the rest getting into the "Modern" series! 🔥
Excellent presentation! I agree about the mil-spec watch heritage carried over to so many field and non-field watches. Keep going!
I've got a 165.024 and just picked up a Seaweedmaster. While I like the latter, if Omega ever releases something close to the Seamaster unit watches to the public, the Seaweed is on the sale block and I'm running to get the new hotness.
An outstanding and comprehensive review of military watch history. Well done. I enjoyed that very much! BZ
Great list and ranking! Makes me miss some watches that are part of this video I no longer own. The Willard, Vertex M100A, Longines Weems Pilot Watch L2.606.4, a Helson Sharkmaster (homage to the big triangle Omega M.O.D. SM300) to name a few.
Looking forward to Part 2!
Great list. That wht dial Lemania - such a clean design!
You cheeky bugger, you totally planned IWC Mark XI on 11 XDDDDD
A very good vid as always! But where's omega RAF 53 thin arrow man? One of my favorite omega watches out there.
But man that Panerai is wild! Also I love that trivia about no lume on submarine crew watch, very interesting!
Kid you not, as I was recording I noticed, paused, did the maths... "oh cool, it was meant to be" then carried on recording 😆 AND the '53 Omega (threw in the fat arrow) ;) ...my head is just a vessel for useless information like "Barakuda spelt "wrong" on Blancpain casebacks" 🥃
@@ID-Guy Well the other day, I learned how to read those codes on caseback on MOD/NATO issued watches, so we are cut from the same cloth lol
But duuuuude, thin arrow is where it's at, fat arrow was repainted by MOD themselves and not Omega (but safer at least)
Can't understand they didn't proofread Barakuda tbh XDDDDD
You know when you think about it, it's pretty wild that companies like Lange and Blancpain supplying military watches, because today, we regard them as fine watchmakers with sophistication and all that, but they made those rugged tool watches back in the days.
To say that this is right up your alley is something of an understatement!
This is the definitive guide to this niche of timepieces.
Bloody brilliant if I may say so myself
I’m surprised and delighted you rated the type xx so high.
I think number 3 for me
Ooooh that gets the juices well and truly flowing
I look forward to the next instalment!
Another fantastic video. Learned a lot from this. Thank you. Would love to add a vintage military watch to my collection! One day eh?
Won’t chat much…. Simply said, love your videos 🔥
The joke is the recording was well over an hour 😆 Only 15 or so minutes were really usable, the rest are blunders, rambling and whatever else. But hey, editing is a beautiful tool. Thank you brother ;)
Dude this was fantastic
And I wish I’d made it longer (with at least 5 others I missed… Benrus Type 1, Heuer 3H, Longines Majetek to name a few) Ah well, 15 will have to do 😉🥃 Thank you brother
Yes, longer please.
AMZWATCH is one of my favorite watch manufacturers they do offer beautifull dials, good workmanship & moovements.That smooth sweeping second hand is truly mesmerizing！
What a professional video. Enjoyed it very much, thank you for doing it
Wow! One of the best videos for watch enthusiasts I've ever seen.
My congratulations.
Can’t beat gold polished Roman numerals that sparkle like jewels in the sunlight. Loving the sun ray dial man that pops!MAMACOO watches. What a beautiful subtle piece.
My favorite watch channel without a doubt.I’m happy to spend my money on AMZWATCH watches. I’ve never been let down by their products
My Father was a frogman, and became addicted to the many watches he used during that time. Many brilliant watches and so many more I need to explore
I enjoyed this video ! My favourite in this episode is the submarine watch on 7:29 ! So legible and very cool . I would love to wear this one ♥
That Series III Lemania… every time I see it I think “what a beautiful watch?” And it was made to do what?? This hobby of ours 😉🥃
Very well done! I’m looking forward to the upcoming videos in the series.
My pleasure as always Chris! Thank you brother 🥃
All from memory? No way.
Quite impressive.
Blancpain is located in Villeret.
So when Tornek named their brand, they chose Rayville as an undercover nod to Blancpains home town.
As I understand it.
Great video.
Just saved it to my reference files.
Cheers
I think it’s a nice ranking. It’s a huge category. I’ll have to check out your other videos on the topic.
I wouldn’t recommend listening to my videos from 4 years back (do so at your own peril) highly scripted, audio was always spotty 😆 But… I did cover many, many more pieces. Thanks a ton Will 🥃
@@ID-Guy you mean I get knowledge and get to make fun of you at the same time? Peanut butter meet chocolate.
I really enjoyed that, great job ID Guy👍
Awesome video!! Looking forward to watching part two!
Thanks! ⚔️♠️
Awesome! Thanks so much, learned a lot….
And of course it should've been another 10 minutes long (I could've expanded on many more pieces) but hey ;) Always appreciate Alan, thank you sir! 🥃
Brilliant focussed presentation on military watches. I’m a fan of military watches but didn’t realise the scope and breadth of designs out there. What a cornucopia!
Spot On! Clean & Sharp Presentation! ❤
Nice video💕👍
Love this. Always aids in my knowledge when “treasure hunting” at estate sales and flea markets
This is a great video! I love your explanations of the design features as well as the history lessons. This is the sort of material that makes the watch hobby fun. Thank you.
Great list and video my friend you are my go to channel for classy and concise content personally I have been hunting for the Omega big triangle for decades and have found it to be very difficult to locate one in which it would not cost me a small fortune to bring back to its former glory but I don't plan on giving up anytime soon Be well Keep em coming my friend and Big blessings 👍
Great list, thank you, and it reminds me I need a Hanhart in my collection :)
These pilot chrono’s… they’re an addiction all on their own 😉🥃
Absolutely fantastic video, thank you for sharing with us. I was a little sad not to see CWC make the cut though; one of my all time favourite watch brands and 100% true to the tool watch philosophy.
EDIT: Forgive me, maybe CWC will come in Part 2 😊
Oh it’s not a maybe, CWC will absolutely be making Part 2 Alexander, don’t worry 😉🥃
Great selection. My preferred military watch would be most any Casio or G-Shock......or even a Timex Ironman.
Great Video. My Favourites are the Tudor Snowflake Submariner & of course the Milsub! 🥰
Excellent work! Just enough detail to peak future search interest. Everyone of the watches are great examples that provide the foundation for military men and women to be accurately time on target.
Great list! I learned a few things.
I know it’s nowhere near high end horology but whether we like or not the majority of armed forces units use G-Shocks.
They are built like tanks - can take absolutely ANYTHING - and are fairly cheap and easily available. Especially the DW-6600 and 6900 are iconic in the field and used to be standard issue in the US Navy Seals.
Great and very informative video though. Loved it!!
Part 2 I’ll be covering all of these gems we covet (like the modern Casio’s of today) - from the 80’s until Now, phew, I’ll have a list 😉🥃
@@ID-Guy sweeet can’t wait for that. You’re my favorite watch channel. I learn so much history and trivia behind the design aspect of the watches you feature and that is something I cannot find anywhere, in some cases not even in forums or Rolex Magazines etc. Every UA-camr focuses primarily on the watches looks and brochure features plus movement (which is cool) but almost no one digs behind the story of what made those features thought out and implemented in the first place and even more what its iteration of any iconic model (eg: Sub or Speedy) brought to the table and for what reason. Thank you 🙏
Now for example I am trying to find information on Explorer 2 and on which real case of speleology exploration, mountaineering or arctic expedition was used. Rolex says that speleologist and mountaineers use those watches and although I would love for it to be trueI, I am finding very hard to believe those people (with mostly down to earth salaries) would invest on an $9,000+ watch to take it some of the most environmentally hostile places on earth. So trying to find real examples. If you got any info pls share it with us.
Again thank you for your contribution keep on making great videos!!
Fantastic work, great upload 🤙🏻
Excellent video thank you. I learned a lot. Chuckled when the picture of the Panerai on the wrist popped up, that thing is a beast! Not sure if you are going to cover it but it would be cool to to see a video on modern interpretations of the classic military watches. The most authentic, most heritage, how they changed, etc.
The Omega 165.024 big triangle is most definitely my favorite.
I'm genuinely impressed with how close AMZWATCH were able to replicate every aspect of this very very goofy looking classic watch.
What a great video, some fantastic historical watches listed. I think the Vostok amphibia deserves a mention but yeah what a great list.
My favorite 2024 is the Prospex Limited Edition 1965 Recreation European Exclusive in Gradation Island Blue. The dial is stunning and the contrast when on a white strap is to die for. I will get my hands on one from AMZWATCH
As always a great video. Many of the watches I did not know of, you sir did your homework !! If I had more time I would tell you about my watch that i wore while serving, it wouldn't make your list, but it might make you laugh out loud ...
Blancpain barracuda looks amazing !!
It's such a gem. Got to be one of the most stealthy pieces around (that nobody would recognise unless they "knew") 🥃
Absolute quality. You nailed it.
Great list. You cannot put them all in, but the A-11 I thought would have made the list.
Watch are the ultimate Men's accesories！Enjoyed watching your collection. Keep going！As a watch enthusiast and watch reviewer, I can say AMZWATCH this was a great choice. Enjoyed your video!
Such a good video
G10 for men. Been wearing mine 18 years... Love it
MAMACOO's always amazes me how much beauty and precision are added to the parts of watch 99% of people will never see.
Just WOW! Thank you for this impressive video, I have learned so much 👍👍👍
got my 39mm with the white dial on the 3-link "Bader" bracelet watch on AMZWATCH 3 weeks ago and am loving it to pieces. Absolute fantastic watch that wears super comfortable on my 6.75 inch wrist. Chose the 3-link over the 5-link bracelet for the toolless quick adjustment. Way more comfortable than my Longines Hydroconquest 41 mm.
As a person who also very much in love with digital watches, I would also add the Casio G-Shock series watches which are readily available to soldiers of all ranks at every store on military bases.
Outstanding video.I have to go with the AMZWATCH, especially with that green dial as my favorite
There’s something refreshing about old military watches that just has lasting appeal. They’re elegantly simple and functional without being ugly (sorry g shock I still love you) but also a bit more honest about being tools. As much as I love the beautiful subtle flourishes in watches from brands like IWC, Omega, Rolex, Blancpain, and even JLC they do sometimes feel too nice for their original purpose. A 5517 milsub reissue would be amazing but Rolex has lost its sense of fun and I’m sure the availability/markup would be ridiculous but I can dream. Great list
Nice work, I enjoyed that. Would like to see a part II with the watches that didn't make the cut.
Great list. I would've included the Seiko 6105. Can't deny its influence on modern dive watches.
Amazing video brother, the Blancpain Baracoda is my favourite Mil Spec watch.
Love your channel with so many stellar watches! For me the MAMACOO’ watch is my favorite. Keep the videos coming. Thanks.
My favorite watch channel without a doubt.I’m happy to spend my money on MAMACOO watches. I’ve never been let down by their products
Amazing video as always!
A great presentation! I am surprised that you didn’t mention the A11. You might say the UK equivalent, the WWW, covers the battleground, but I think the A11 should be somewhere on the list. Just to prove that I am not simply a prejudiced Yank, I think the ATP small seconds watch belongs on the list as well as the GSTP pocket watches produced during the same era.
I have previously written for WOE on the watches of the SOE and OSS and I was never able to find a photo of an SOE or SAS operator in WWII or their counterparts with a WWW watch. Instead, it was always a white dial ATP. Cheers, mate
JR Seeger
Old warrior, even older novelist
Great point on the A11, I actually did have a think about where it would’ve placed in the “Ranking” and next to the WWW’s? I would’ve probably put it at #16… is that bad? ;) Love Benrus’ though… gotta say if it wasn’t for the TR900, the Type 1 would’ve made it. And thank you for sharing these details about the SOE with me (I had no idea - no surprises there really) 😆🥃
@@ID-Guy SOE men and women needed a reliable timepiece but most their operations were finished in the ETO by the time the WWW timepieces arrived in the inventory. I never could find a photo that was terribly useful about SOE in the CBI other than noticing they were all white faced watches.
The recent series Rogue Heroes (based on Ben Macintyre’s book) worked hard at the right equipment. You will notice if you see a watch at all, it will be a cream or white faced field watch.
As to the A11, I understand why you couldn’t duplicate the same style once you had WWW watches listed.
A great video and I am always interested in your discussions even though most modern watches are way out of my budget. I missed the train in 1984 when I could buy a Rolex Submariner or AirKing at the PX for one month’s salary. Ma’alesh.
Superb. 👏