@morbeus Morbeus While I can see your point, it really depends on the person. I still remember my first car. 2004 Monte Carlo Supercharged Super Sport. I lost that car to a black ice incident. And I legit cried over that car and still wish I had it. So it's really up to the person whether a watch would be more important than a car.
@@Gaming2020-c1b I'm 17 saved up much more than you did and bought a $300 car, and until today always had cold feet when looking to buy a watch. Honestly, saving is awesome but remember that there is a reason that you work, and it's not just to rack up the numbers in your bank account. Just bought this piece this morning: www.orientwatchusa.com/collections/classic/products/ra-ag0015l10a See, while the bargain you scored on that Omega is awesome, for me it was enough to buy a car AND a watch. That's why I always have such difficulty jumping on even the most reasonable Omega's and Longines on Ebay.
Have u looked at company's who build fake watches and put generic movements in them. Such as a copy of a omega speedster clone. They look and feal real.
But also you can just trade or sell pieces you don't like or have realized you don't wear much. They arent completely devalued once you buy them especially if its purchased used. Lots of collectors trade watches like yugioh cards over the years as they try new stuff and shift their tastes
on that note: a good smartwatch (circular one) with an app like watchmaker is AWESOME for trying out different looks without spending a lot of money to see what kind of watch faces you like in general. (for example, i discovered that i have a pet peeve with regard to chronographs havign the large seconds hand being tied to chrono function and not time telling).
I purchased an explorer ii as my third watch, after first a Seiko skx and then a Rolex date. I spent a lot, and I love my watches. Good tip, luckily I found the one I really wanted after years of loving watches :)
Kudos for refraining from touching on matters of taste, style and brand hierarchy in this "common beginner mistakes" video. When I first became knowledgeable about watches I began to harshly judge people who bought and wore cheaper watches, or homages, or quartz instead of mechanical timepieces. As my own sophistication grew, I came to understand that self-appointed judgement was itself a beginner mistake. Some of the worst watch snobs are freshly minted enthusiasts who know just enough to consider themselves superior to less sophisticated watch owners. Every watch enthusiast is on a progression in this hobby. And has their own sense of personal budget and taste. As long as a watch is of decent quality and brings the wearer enjoyment, I've learned to respect that determination in and of itself. I no longer consider a person who happily wears a Timex quartz, a Chinese mechanical watch or one that takes strong styling cues from a more expensive, iconic timepiece to be "mistakes".
As my own sophistication grew, I came to understand that self-appointed judgment was itself a beginner mistake. You put it perfectly here my friend. I love this!
Teddy Baldassarre I appreciate what you both said. As someone who topped out at $500 for a watch, a Chinese tourbillon recently and the previous Chinese were much much less, it is nice when more knowledgeable and higher budget enthusiasts are so gracious. Best wishes gentlemen.
Marc Hills I had a Timex Ironman watch when I was in elementary school. I loved the thing, and I wore it every time I went swimming... if I had washed it after every practice, it probably wouldn’t have gotten so discolored. Needless to say, it worked PERFECTLY, and I got another one from the same collection after 2 years. Timex can be good, but yeah, the price of their products makes Timex owners disliked by noob watch enthusiasts. Also, I could’ve just gotten a new band.
Marc Hills as a watch lover on a student budget I can definitely appreciate quartz movement over automatic. I want my watch to just work. I eventually gave away my automatic to my brother. He also sold it and bought a quartz movement not soon after. Now I only own smartwatches (daily driver) and quartz dress watch. I used to scoff at my dad who always remind me to “check if it’s a quartz not automatic”. And my eye would roll with snobbiness. But the more I use watches, the more I realize that the ones I mostly wear are smartwatches and quartz (for special occasions). I still love watches. But the impulse to buy has died down. I only have one smartwatch, a timex field chronograph (for dinners and functions) and a daily beater from unisilver (15usd) for school when smartwatches aren’t allowed. I am now into the world of watch straps. Much cheaper that way :)
Anton Chigurgh I’ve heard that argument a lot and don’t quite get it unless you are buying for investment of course. These days you can get so many solid watches for around $60 -$100 that in the past 12 months I’ve bought a Seiko kinetic, 2 superb Seiko 5s autos and a Guanqin auto with a NH36 movement and sapphire, (ok I have also had an Orient Star Classic gifted from my Dad) but in all I have only spent a total of £285 ($375). That’s about 12% of the cost of a Tudor Black Bay and considerably less percentage of the cost of a Rolex! In other words - a fairly small percentage. Unless you are buying a new budget watch or two every month then it won’t make much difference for the average earner to still be able to save up for a luxury timepiece over a few years as well. Actually these watches I have keep such good time and are so well finished for the price that I am not interested (yet!) in any luxury watches!
i dont think so, when you start out you are searching for your style, so you will buy a lot of watches you will never really wear. almost all the big watch collectors say their first 15 watches were bad _for them_. even teddy buyed into the hype of the skx and others, then he found out what he really likes.
tenylegnincsevem Yes I agree that is often the case but my argument was about cost- a decent mechanical watch costs so little these days that it shouldn’t affect your ability to save for a more expensive one. Also I would consider buying a few cheaper watches as a reasonable way of experimenting with what you really like before pulling the trigger on a much more pricey one.
#1 The looks of your watch are customizable. You aren't locked to your strap. #2 Water-resistance is misleading #3 Don't change your date between 9PM and 3AM #4 Understand the dimensions of watches
@@jacobtonte5001 the date gears will bite and move around 9pm-3am, so interfering with it within those hours while the gears are moving to the next date will cause the gears some damage
Hi Teddy, Others have already commented on this danger for beginners. When they discover the beauty of watches for the first time, the desire arises to keep buying watch after watch in a short amount of time. But then months or a year or two later, after learning more, they realize they could have made much better choices. The lesson is to go slow at first and not buy simply on impulse.
I've been swapping out the straps of some of my twelve watches recently and, you're right, a new strap does give the watch an entirely new look and feel! Also, I'm really glad that you showed a Timex in your video. I'm a fan of Timex watches - they may not be the most expensive or sought-after, but they're well-made (for the most part), look good and perform pretty well, too!
While the watch resistance is not really accurate as you said, I would say it's pretty save to jump into water with a watch that has never been opened. I've been swimming up and down into the sea for a couple or weeks wearing a cheap quartz Festina. Few months later, it performs as new. However, I would never shower with a vintage watch, even if it has a diver label. Good point on the lug to lug measurement.
I think the 30m water resistant rating is a tough one. I have jumped in the pool with a casio quartz that was rated to that a couple years back when I didn't know any better and didn't have any problems. I just think if you plan to go in the water, get one that is assured to work in those conditions.
Other than fitness watches and an Apple watch, I just bought my first luxury watch -- at 61 years old. And in no small part thanks to your excellent videos Teddy.
The first point is extremely important. And to hammer down that some more: Usually the band sizes are very standardized, you only need the width and you can replace it with another one. And nato-straps are king when it comes to utility, they've pretty much changed my life as a tool-watch guy.
One thing I have learned, thanks in part to you, is that there is a watch for everyone and at nearly every price point. Find the watch you want, and look at every brand you can find, even those at higher price points, because in the end you may be willing to spend more. So long as one takes time to compare different brands once the style is decided on, it is hard to go wrong and be unhappy with your choice. Don't just get excited and make a purchase that isn't thought through.
Oh yes good point. I would advise everybody not to buy "expensive" Quartz watches because the best Quartz-Watches are the affordable japanese ones with in-house quartz-movements. Citizen, Seiko and Casio.
I'm doing exactly that with the tag heuer formula one. Why? Because to me it looks amazing, and I've wanted a tag since I was like 10 (no doubt thanks to their marketing), the quality is good, its everything I want in a watch that I will wear daily and in my budget. More long term I'd like to save up for an omega seamaster and a tag heuer carrera caliber 16. But for a start I'm going with something I like and can afford.
@@06pramodbhat The most accurate watch ever made is the Citizen Eco Drive Caliber 0100. The best watches for a small amount of money are Casios and the best analog quartz watches when it comes to functionality and performance are vintage Seikos from the 80's and 90's (Todays cheaper seiko quartz models aren't that good)
Oddly enough, the possibility of strap changes is something that most people overlook. Whenever I want to buy a new watch and ask for my girlfriend's opinion, I always have to keep telling her to focus on the watch itself, because the strap can be easily changed.
Great video! Thanks for sharing. Was looking through your links on the straps video, but I'm still wondering: what strap is that on your Rolex at 1:08 and your Timex at 2:26?
I would recommend that every watch collector get a small tool kit to change out straps, add or remove links on bracelets, replace batteries (on quartz watches) and inspect movements. I got my tool kit from Amazon for US$30.
This video is 4 years old at the time of this comment but I just started following you Teddy the past 3 or 4 weeks and I've come to learn so much more about watches than I did before. And one thing I think people need to know obviously it's about the movement, quartz or mechanical, do you want to change your battery? if you put that watch in a safe for a few years that battery can destroy the movement. So I think people especially buying a watch for the 1st time need to learn about the movement and quality of movement.
Wow! You learn something every day, i.e., not changing the date / day complications between 9 pm and 3 am was new information for me. Thank you for explaining why this was bad for a watch. I'll never do that again.
I bought a ton of watches in a short period of time and found that I wear pretty much all dive watches. I also wear my g-shocks for when i’m at the gym/camping, but I mainly wear all dive watches.
I'd been wearing plastic Casio watches for years. They're functional and my most recent one is a G Shock so also tough. I wanted something dresser for every day and for wearing to functions. I looked at Omega and Longines. But I wasn't prepared to go to that price at the time. I'd already found Christopher Ward by then. This was about 4 years ago. Just over a year ago I decided I could afford a CW. I bought a C5 Malvern Mk.3 with an automatic Sellita movement. It's stainless steel with a chain mail type of bracelet. The cost was £580 but as a new customer I got £100 discount. The Omega I looked at is now about £2700. The CW is very similar and very well finished and detailed. I'm very pleased with it and consider it a bargain and a company people should seriously consider.
Note: I've noticed that my 42mm Orient Ray wears smaller on my 6.5” wrist than my 40mm styles. This is due to the downward slant of the Orient's bezel, as opposed to a flat bezel found on Seiko divers. New watch shoppers might want to pay attention to that feature.
I completely agree with the first point. My dad handed me down a T-Race that had a bright orange rubber strap. The watch itself is great, however the bright strap did not suit my tastes. One of the first things I did upon receiving it was changing it to a brown leather strap.
Thanks Teddy, great vids. Listen, I’m taking my time on my first serious watch purchase & thanks to your videos, I feel more confident about the decision I’ll make in the weeks ahead. Thanks for saving me the trial and error you had to go through. Keep at it!
I'm debating several things. First is the price point at which to start. I'm thinking between $500 to $2000, in order to both have ample quality with the sorts of things I want in a watch. I also don't mind considering pre-owned. The other thing I'm debating, is what to start with: dress or casual. I want something that might be suitable for both settings, considering I may not be in my Sunday often enough, and don't want to need excuses to wear the watch more often. Something that's both dressy and casual enough to suit both. Considering watches like: Tudor Black Bay family, Christopher Ward Moonphase, Oris diver, Pinion Axis/Pure, Baume & Mercier, and Nomos. Watches in that price range, really are a great balance of quality yet real bang for the buck. Any other ideas/suggestions?
I think dial to bezel ratio makes a big difference in how a watch appears on the wrist too. My SKX & Laco fleiger are similar case width but the Laco appears larger on wrist because it's almost all dial.
Maybe a video on what to look out for in a watch. Like different type of glass face and which is better, which strap to choose, features to look for like is chrongraph really needed or a simple watch or a watch which tells time, should someone spend money on bezel, how to decide which is better suited for the price quartz, mechanical, automatic. All those basic things which will help a newbie choose a good watch for the budget they have 🙂
Hi, please tell me what you think about this watch. Casio sapphire mts-100l 1awef. In what category would you fit it ... and what grade would you give. Thanks.
I think some people regard watches only as time keeping instruments where as I feel they can be so much more . several years ago my parents took me to a jewllers to pick out a watch for my 21st birthday, was never one to ask for much, and I'd never bought a watch before I was aware of some brands and some of the features they carried but that wasnt really on my mind, once I found something that liked the look of. Ended up walking out with a Seiko Cal. T792. The thing that made it all however and it's something I don't think people think about when gifting watches is the personal inscription on the back. From the day I got it I've taken such an interest in watches and I wear it always when out . It's part of who I am now.
Collecting and switching straps makes watch collecting way more fun. Nice straps cost as little as $20 and increase the versatility of appearance and use for your watches.
Just a small matter.The shape of the lugs.They can be straight out,like the Nomos or pointing downwards to fit the wrist. I noticed that quite a few watch selling sites now have a “try it on “function.This is great as it gives you some idea of how the watch is going to look.
About point 1, one of the main reasons I bought a Tudor Pelagos was because of the titanium bracelet and the clasp. I've tried it on tropic strap, parachute strap and I think I'll keep it on the original bracelet.
That last tip about lug to lug length is a great one. Can you please get TGV to understand that? He is always saying 42mm watches (except for his Squales) are too big yet the watch he is often saying is too big has a lug to lug shorter than his 40mm Submariner! :)
Yea, I used to freak out about changing the date on my watches at night, but I have worked on so many watches that I service my own watches now and I'm not super concerned about it now. It's so rewarding when you take apart a movement and put it back together, even if you need a youtube video along the way.
Very good video Teddy. I know this video is old but I still watch the videos I've not yet seen and I've been following you for quite some time. I don't see you as a fashion/lifestyle channel now. You're gearing more towards watches and I like it!
My first watch was a Victorinox Infantry in 2012. I wore it daily for 5 years in every situation. After the crown stopped changing the date I started watch shopping and really fell in love with Seikos. It's now 2019 and I have more watches I can wear. Casio. Seiko. Timex Marlin. Not the nicest collection and comfortably afford. I would say save up and get something you really want and commit to it. From there you can branch out and find what your likes and needs are from your first purchase. That was my experience.
Love all the watch knowledge you bestow upon the masses Mr. Baldassarre. I’m even more impressed y how you show the same knowledge and enthusiasm while discussing a 200 dolllar watch as well as a 20000 dollar watch plus you opened my eyes to a lot of watches and brands that I’ve never considered before.
As a new watch collector there's so may out there not sure what would be the best or what you recommend to start with I just got a aeromat gmt watch . The 2nd I just got is a citizen AT8010-58-E what should be my next watch to collect 🤔
The one thing I would recommend to watch enthusiasts is to not lay your watch down on to its crown, especially if your crown isn't of the screw down type. Constant tapping of the crown as you lay your watch down could lead to damage inside the watch, causing costly repairs.
My newbie mistake was buying a blue sunburst dial Orient Bambino, because it seemed like such an amazing and beautiful piece. You know, after seing YT videos about it... However, I quickly found out that in reality I wasn't comfortable wearing something like that from day to day, and I rarely go to dressy occasions where it would be more at home. It happened to be something wrong with it, which was good luck this time, because the seller agreed to let me return it. I didn't rebuy it.
The lugs can indeed make a huge difference. I have a Tissot Heritage 1936. It has a case size of 45 mm. In most watches that is way too large for my wrist. But because it has short wire lugs that bend downwards, it wears much smaller. My advise would be : Try it on your wrist before buying it.
you can tell how long you have been collecting , by how many straps you have also collected....also the misconception of quartz vs. automatic.....great tube Teddy
I have only been 'seriously' collecting for two to three years, but like I said in the video, straps are a huge part of watches. I could have probably bought another watch or two, but to me the straps are just as important to get the most out of the watches you own.
Other beginner mistakes: buying a Rolex or Tudor in 2018-2020 during the tulip mania craze; buying quartz --ever; buying at a mall; buying "Swiss" from shippers based in Bulgaria and India; buying a vintage but dead brand at a flea market just because it's marked "Swiss" on the dial, it's 'cheap' and it ticked a little; passing on a vintage Hamilton or Buren (one of the few exceptions to dead brands) with a 663/666 microrotor movement with decent case/dial in running condition; assuming vintage watches in gold won't make a comeback in your lifetime; wearing a leather strap on a watch you plan to use around water or for serious work outdoors; wearing a watch without a screwdown crown anywhere but the office or the opera; opening and regulating a watch yourself because you saw some guy do it on youtube with a toothpick.
I think sometimes new collectors think they have to have a watch of every kind (ie. pilot, diver, dress), and buy to make the "best" collection instead of what they prefer and enjoy personally and end up with lots of regret at the start.
I have bought a watch that was to busy for its size (Oris 57th Reno Air Races Limited Edition) - impossible to find the date triangle in its slot in normal light. Maybe it would have worked with a 43mm diameter (instead of 40) and a wider slot.
What I didn't know when I started: 1) That there was such a thing as sapphire crystal. Now, that is a requirement on all my watches. 2) That they have straps with butterfly clasps. I'm clumsy and have never liked fastening a strap every morning. 3) That there are no good lumes until you get to the expense of triton tubes. 4) That you need to buy a watch based on the diameter of your wrist. For me, that means a 36mm-39mm watch. 5) That for me hacking isn't important.
Not looking into whether an automatic hacks/hand-winds. Not thinking about the cost of servicing a used automatic watch. Not asking if a watch crystal has AR-coating.
Hahaha. You just described me just a couple of month’s ago! Good video for newbies! If I may I would add 1/ do as much research as you can when buying a new watch I.e be patient 2/ be careful when buying from online sources as you need to buy from reliable sources 3/ eBay is a great place to shop however do get some advice from channels like your’s before trying to bid in auctions and yes, research the watch you intend to buy. Thx again for a great video 👍🏻
thanks, while most of mistakes are known to me - the one about not changing the date between 12pm and 3am was an interesting find. Keep up the good work.
I've also realized that case size doesn't fully determine whether or not a watch will look huge on your wrist. Apart from the lug-to-lug height, also look at the size of the bezel and the dial. A watch that has thin bezels and a huge dial making up most of the case will look bigger than a watch with the same case diameter but thicker bezels and smaller dial. Of course this is harder to realize if you've got both watches side by side but on their own, this is quite true.
Hey Teddy, first time commenting big fan of your content and style keep it up! I have question as I'm watching more and more videos, is about researching watches- how do you do it? Through you and other channels I know what I'm looking for but when considering a micro brand or examining movements how should I go about that?
If you buy a mechanical chronograph, read the manual before operating it! While some chronos have a flyback feature, meaning they can be reset without stopping them, others (and this includes some very expensive watches) can be seriously damaged if the chronograph is not stopped before pressing the reset. Don't expect the warranty to cover you if you do this.
Noob question. Is it ok to add/takeout the links in your watch on your own? I would assume it’s no big deal, just don’t want to screw up a nice watch I’m getting.
Man, I had a Timex once, it was on the dollar-grab-table. It was, well, just a throw away watch but I took care of it and it served me quite well for some time.
Good evening, Ted! I'm looking forward to buy one of your straps soon. Nice video for the people who are new to the watch Hobby. Even I did learn something new.
Hahaha I know, I need to iron my shirt lol
Just hang the shirt on a hanger then STEAM the shirt ! Much easier and really works great !!
Ironed shirt or not...you and your contents are still impressive. #Slay
I'm here for the watches who cares about his shirt
Wear linen shirts so when they wrinkle, you can say it's supposed to be that way 👌
lol didn't even notice til now.
1. Getting into watches when you have no money
@morbeus Morbeus While I can see your point, it really depends on the person. I still remember my first car. 2004 Monte Carlo Supercharged Super Sport. I lost that car to a black ice incident. And I legit cried over that car and still wish I had it. So it's really up to the person whether a watch would be more important than a car.
@@Gaming2020-c1b I'm 17 saved up much more than you did and bought a $300 car, and until today always had cold feet when looking to buy a watch. Honestly, saving is awesome but remember that there is a reason that you work, and it's not just to rack up the numbers in your bank account. Just bought this piece this morning: www.orientwatchusa.com/collections/classic/products/ra-ag0015l10a See, while the bargain you scored on that Omega is awesome, for me it was enough to buy a car AND a watch. That's why I always have such difficulty jumping on even the most reasonable Omega's and Longines on Ebay.
Have u looked at company's who build fake watches and put generic movements in them. Such as a copy of a omega speedster clone.
They look and feal real.
@morbeus Morbeus www.poljot24.de/en/chronograph-poljot-sturmanskie-r039.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIntPm79r66QIVh8x3Ch2pYw81EAAYASAAEgIkJvD_BwE
@@AltonRowell-gb1lb hell, there's clone omega/rolexes where they even copy the OG movement, just at a slightly lower quality
1: Buying a watch when you have no arms.
@@animal0mother how are you going to do that with no arms/hands?
@@calebf612 tell someone to do so 🤭
@@animal0mother you could cover both ends if
You're a . . . Dickhead!
Sunglass watches. Then again, watch probably pointless when your blind too. 😁
That's why pocket watches are made for
Dont spend too much, to early. Your tastes will change as your knowledge grows. Let you collection develop naturally
But also you can just trade or sell pieces you don't like or have realized you don't wear much. They arent completely devalued once you buy them especially if its purchased used. Lots of collectors trade watches like yugioh cards over the years as they try new stuff and shift their tastes
@@IAMmrhardcore except cheap chinese watches like I collect, those lose their value pretty fast :P
on that note: a good smartwatch (circular one) with an app like watchmaker is AWESOME for trying out different looks without spending a lot of money to see what kind of watch faces you like in general. (for example, i discovered that i have a pet peeve with regard to chronographs havign the large seconds hand being tied to chrono function and not time telling).
Probably the best advice. Thanks, KC
I purchased an explorer ii as my third watch, after first a Seiko skx and then a Rolex date. I spent a lot, and I love my watches. Good tip, luckily I found the one I really wanted after years of loving watches :)
Kudos for refraining from touching on matters of taste, style and brand hierarchy in this "common beginner mistakes" video. When I first became knowledgeable about watches I began to harshly judge people who bought and wore cheaper watches, or homages, or quartz instead of mechanical timepieces. As my own sophistication grew, I came to understand that self-appointed judgement was itself a beginner mistake. Some of the worst watch snobs are freshly minted enthusiasts who know just enough to consider themselves superior to less sophisticated watch owners. Every watch enthusiast is on a progression in this hobby. And has their own sense of personal budget and taste. As long as a watch is of decent quality and brings the wearer enjoyment, I've learned to respect that determination in and of itself. I no longer consider a person who happily wears a Timex quartz, a Chinese mechanical watch or one that takes strong styling cues from a more expensive, iconic timepiece to be "mistakes".
As my own sophistication grew, I came to understand that self-appointed judgment was itself a beginner mistake. You put it perfectly here my friend. I love this!
Teddy Baldassarre I appreciate what you both said. As someone who topped out at $500 for a watch, a Chinese tourbillon recently and the previous Chinese were much much less, it is nice when more knowledgeable and higher budget enthusiasts are so gracious. Best wishes gentlemen.
Marc Hills I had a Timex Ironman watch when I was in elementary school. I loved the thing, and I wore it every time I went swimming... if I had washed it after every practice, it probably wouldn’t have gotten so discolored. Needless to say, it worked PERFECTLY, and I got another one from the same collection after 2 years. Timex can be good, but yeah, the price of their products makes Timex owners disliked by noob watch enthusiasts. Also, I could’ve just gotten a new band.
You right in everything except that I gonna keep hating and criticizing the guys wearing oversized Invicta watches!😁
Marc Hills as a watch lover on a student budget I can definitely appreciate quartz movement over automatic. I want my watch to just work. I eventually gave away my automatic to my brother. He also sold it and bought a quartz movement not soon after. Now I only own smartwatches (daily driver) and quartz dress watch.
I used to scoff at my dad who always remind me to “check if it’s a quartz not automatic”. And my eye would roll with snobbiness. But the more I use watches, the more I realize that the ones I mostly wear are smartwatches and quartz (for special occasions).
I still love watches. But the impulse to buy has died down. I only have one smartwatch, a timex field chronograph (for dinners and functions) and a daily beater from unisilver (15usd) for school when smartwatches aren’t allowed.
I am now into the world of watch straps. Much cheaper that way :)
Feeling pressure to own a watch because, "all collectors should own a [x] "
I am even guilty of this one...
Which is definitely a SKX, but you really should own it tho.
@@dandyrayhan3970 nah man, Casio Duro. its a great diver and its cheap and quartz
@@loafywolfy it looks great but it's better to avoid quartz if you're really into watches.
@@dandyrayhan3970 Hahahah!
Biggest noob mistake: quantity over quality.
I want to do a video about this exact concept.
Teddy Baldassarre
Looking forward to it: you've been on fire lately with your videos. Good stuff!
Anton Chigurgh I’ve heard that argument a lot and don’t quite get it unless you are buying for investment of course. These days you can get so many solid watches for around $60 -$100 that in the past 12 months I’ve bought a Seiko kinetic, 2 superb Seiko 5s autos and a Guanqin auto with a NH36 movement and sapphire, (ok I have also had an Orient Star Classic gifted from my Dad) but in all I have only spent a total of £285 ($375). That’s about 12% of the cost of a Tudor Black Bay and considerably less percentage of the cost of a Rolex! In other words - a fairly small percentage. Unless you are buying a new budget watch or two every month then it won’t make much difference for the average earner to still be able to save up for a luxury timepiece over a few years as well. Actually these watches I have keep such good time and are so well finished for the price that I am not interested (yet!) in any luxury watches!
i dont think so, when you start out you are searching for your style, so you will buy a lot of watches you will never really wear. almost all the big watch collectors say their first 15 watches were bad _for them_. even teddy buyed into the hype of the skx and others, then he found out what he really likes.
tenylegnincsevem Yes I agree that is often the case but my argument was about cost- a decent mechanical watch costs so little these days that it shouldn’t affect your ability to save for a more expensive one. Also I would consider buying a few cheaper watches as a reasonable way of experimenting with what you really like before pulling the trigger on a much more pricey one.
#1 The looks of your watch are customizable. You aren't locked to your strap.
#2 Water-resistance is misleading
#3 Don't change your date between 9PM and 3AM
#4 Understand the dimensions of watches
Why on #3?
@@jacobtonte5001 the date gears will bite and move around 9pm-3am, so interfering with it within those hours while the gears are moving to the next date will cause the gears some damage
@@joshuaericgaringanao7257 thanks I would have never known thanks for the knowledge.
@@jacobtonte5001 Hes just repeating what was said on the video
I didn't watch the video, I just went to the comments.
0:40 That Seiko 5 in Pale Blue looks SOOO classic.
It's so nice, but i cant seem to find it for sale anywhere..
What's the model no bro?
Hi Teddy, Others have already commented on this danger for beginners. When they discover the beauty of watches for the first time, the desire arises to keep buying watch after watch in a short amount of time. But then months or a year or two later, after learning more, they realize they could have made much better choices. The lesson is to go slow at first and not buy simply on impulse.
Impulse is a huge one. This video, of course, does not point out all of the mistakes that are made. Thanks again for tuning in, Chad.
I've been swapping out the straps of some of my twelve watches recently and, you're right, a new strap does give the watch an entirely new look and feel! Also, I'm really glad that you showed a Timex in your video. I'm a fan of Timex watches - they may not be the most expensive or sought-after, but they're well-made (for the most part), look good and perform pretty well, too!
While the watch resistance is not really accurate as you said, I would say it's pretty save to jump into water with a watch that has never been opened. I've been swimming up and down into the sea for a couple or weeks wearing a cheap quartz Festina. Few months later, it performs as new. However, I would never shower with a vintage watch, even if it has a diver label.
Good point on the lug to lug measurement.
I think the 30m water resistant rating is a tough one. I have jumped in the pool with a casio quartz that was rated to that a couple years back when I didn't know any better and didn't have any problems. I just think if you plan to go in the water, get one that is assured to work in those conditions.
I've seen a guy posting his Laco flieger in the pool everyday.
Got into watches because of you, thanks Carl! Keep up the good job!
I am honored man! The fact that you know my real name is Carl tells me that you are a real one!
So to answer your question about what's going on, well, it's been quite a good week. Both at work and overall. Thanks for asking.
Other than fitness watches and an Apple watch, I just bought my first luxury watch -- at 61 years old. And in no small part thanks to your excellent videos Teddy.
Quick and straight to the point. Thanks for not stretching this to 10+ min
Not changing the time between 9 PM - 3 AM is interesting -- thanks for the info!
You can change the time. Just don't change the date.
The first point is extremely important. And to hammer down that some more:
Usually the band sizes are very standardized, you only need the width and you can replace it with another one.
And nato-straps are king when it comes to utility, they've pretty much changed my life as a tool-watch guy.
One thing I have learned, thanks in part to you, is that there is a watch for everyone and at nearly every price point.
Find the watch you want, and look at every brand you can find, even those at higher price points, because in the end you may be willing to spend more.
So long as one takes time to compare different brands once the style is decided on, it is hard to go wrong and be unhappy with your choice. Don't just get excited and make a purchase that isn't thought through.
Buying expensive quartz watches just because of the brand (before actually seeing the watch specs).
Oh yes good point.
I would advise everybody not to buy "expensive" Quartz watches because the best Quartz-Watches are the affordable japanese ones with in-house quartz-movements.
Citizen, Seiko and Casio.
I'm doing exactly that with the tag heuer formula one. Why? Because to me it looks amazing, and I've wanted a tag since I was like 10 (no doubt thanks to their marketing), the quality is good, its everything I want in a watch that I will wear daily and in my budget. More long term I'd like to save up for an omega seamaster and a tag heuer carrera caliber 16. But for a start I'm going with something I like and can afford.
Nice dig
@@TheMonsterHunterTV incorrect. The best quartz watch is the Certina Precidrive
@@06pramodbhat The most accurate watch ever made is the Citizen Eco Drive Caliber 0100. The best watches for a small amount of money are Casios and the best analog quartz watches when it comes to functionality and performance are vintage Seikos from the 80's and 90's (Todays cheaper seiko quartz models aren't that good)
Oddly enough, the possibility of strap changes is something that most people overlook. Whenever I want to buy a new watch and ask for my girlfriend's opinion, I always have to keep telling her to focus on the watch itself, because the strap can be easily changed.
Hahaha I have done that. I have educated her enough now to know better. lol
Great video! Thanks for sharing. Was looking through your links on the straps video, but I'm still wondering: what strap is that on your Rolex at 1:08 and your Timex at 2:26?
I would recommend that every watch collector get a small tool kit to change out straps, add or remove links on bracelets, replace batteries (on quartz watches) and inspect movements. I got my tool kit from Amazon for US$30.
This video is 4 years old at the time of this comment but I just started following you Teddy the past 3 or 4 weeks and I've come to learn so much more about watches than I did before. And one thing I think people need to know obviously it's about the movement, quartz or mechanical, do you want to change your battery? if you put that watch in a safe for a few years that battery can destroy the movement. So I think people especially buying a watch for the 1st time need to learn about the movement and quality of movement.
Completely agree with you on the lug-to-lug width sometimes being more important than case diameter.
Especially now considering so many people buy watches online.
Most important (and most overlooked) spec of all when it comes to how it wears. I can wear some 43mm diameters but have had to give up on (exp) 40mms.
Wow! You learn something every day, i.e., not changing the date / day complications between 9 pm and 3 am was new information for me. Thank you for explaining why this was bad for a watch. I'll never do that again.
I’d say: having a grail watch without seeing it in person. I used to have some, and after trying them on I went ”🤷♂️ meh, not that great”
I bought a ton of watches in a short period of time and found that I wear pretty much all dive watches. I also wear my g-shocks for when i’m at the gym/camping, but I mainly wear all dive watches.
Same here. Now I'm trying to sell my dress watches and buy more divers. Last time I suit up was my wedding :)
@@ismethadzic You don't wear a dress watch to work?
@@starmorpheus It's construction work 🤷♂️
@@ismethadzic Ah okay, makes sense for the divers
I'd been wearing plastic Casio watches for years. They're functional and my most recent one is a G Shock so also tough. I wanted something dresser for every day and for wearing to functions. I looked at Omega and Longines. But I wasn't prepared to go to that price at the time. I'd already found Christopher Ward by then. This was about 4 years ago. Just over a year ago I decided I could afford a CW. I bought a C5 Malvern Mk.3 with an automatic Sellita movement. It's stainless steel with a chain mail type of bracelet. The cost was £580 but as a new customer I got £100 discount. The Omega I looked at is now about £2700. The CW is very similar and very well finished and detailed. I'm very pleased with it and consider it a bargain and a company people should seriously consider.
Thanks Teddy, for all you do.
I love that Omega at the start, that might just be my grail watch.
The Omega Admiralty or the Constellation?
Your Omega Admiralty looks great
I found one online for 2600.00 used in great condition from Cron@Caliber. I can't aford it.
That Nomos watch at 1:28 is the most beautiful watch I think I've ever seen. The price definitely reflects that. :/
Note: I've noticed that my 42mm Orient Ray wears smaller on my 6.5” wrist than my 40mm styles. This is due to the downward slant of the Orient's bezel, as opposed to a flat bezel found on Seiko divers. New watch shoppers might want to pay attention to that feature.
Very good point. Thanks for sharing and watching.
Is there any way of resetting the date-day gears to normal once they have been altered during the 9pm - 3am window?
I completely agree with the first point. My dad handed me down a T-Race that had a bright orange rubber strap. The watch itself is great, however the bright strap did not suit my tastes. One of the first things I did upon receiving it was changing it to a brown leather strap.
I am amazed about how many overlook this. I think you made the right choice with the strap.
Thanks Teddy, great vids.
Listen, I’m taking my time on my first serious watch purchase & thanks to your videos, I feel more confident about the decision I’ll make in the weeks ahead.
Thanks for saving me the trial and error you had to go through. Keep at it!
Thank you so much, my friend. What are you debating on buying?
I'm debating several things.
First is the price point at which to start. I'm thinking between $500 to $2000, in order to both have ample quality with the sorts of things I want in a watch. I also don't mind considering pre-owned.
The other thing I'm debating, is what to start with: dress or casual.
I want something that might be suitable for both settings, considering I may not be in my Sunday often enough, and don't want to need excuses to wear the watch more often. Something that's both dressy and casual enough to suit both.
Considering watches like: Tudor Black Bay family, Christopher Ward Moonphase, Oris diver, Pinion Axis/Pure, Baume & Mercier, and Nomos. Watches in that price range, really are a great balance of quality yet real bang for the buck.
Any other ideas/suggestions?
I think dial to bezel ratio makes a big difference in how a watch appears on the wrist too. My SKX & Laco fleiger are similar case width but the Laco appears larger on wrist because it's almost all dial.
Yes and the SKX does have compact lugs.
Maybe a video on what to look out for in a watch.
Like different type of glass face and which is better, which strap to choose, features to look for like is chrongraph really needed or a simple watch or a watch which tells time, should someone spend money on bezel, how to decide which is better suited for the price quartz, mechanical, automatic. All those basic things which will help a newbie choose a good watch for the budget they have 🙂
You should list the reference numbers (or at least make/model) in the Description for these beautiful watches you show.
Hi, please tell me what you think about this watch. Casio sapphire mts-100l 1awef.
In what category would you fit it ... and what grade would you give. Thanks.
The strap video link isn't working and I'd love to watch it.
Straps are just as important as the timepiece!! That's why i change all straps on my Seiko's because their straps sucks lol
Your intros are on point. I don’t have to ever skip them!
Hahaha I love it. I probably have to update it soon.
I've been into watch collecting for a few years now and I just learned about not changing the date while the hands are in a certain position.
You definitely are one of the reasons Im becoming an actual watch enthusiast,and I thank you very much for it!
I think some people regard watches only as time keeping instruments where as I feel they can be so much more . several years ago my parents took me to a jewllers to pick out a watch for my 21st birthday, was never one to ask for much, and I'd never bought a watch before I was aware of some brands and some of the features they carried but that wasnt really on my mind, once I found something that liked the look of. Ended up walking out with a Seiko Cal. T792. The thing that made it all however and it's something I don't think people think about when gifting watches is the personal inscription on the back. From the day I got it I've taken such an interest in watches and I wear it always when out . It's part of who I am now.
Collecting and switching straps makes watch collecting way more fun. Nice straps cost as little as $20 and increase the versatility of appearance and use for your watches.
Wooow! Already a new video? Man you're working, no joke 😂👍🏻
Haha time to level up man!
Just a small matter.The shape of the lugs.They can be straight out,like the Nomos or pointing downwards to fit the wrist.
I noticed that quite a few watch selling sites now have a “try it on “function.This is great as it gives you some idea of how the watch is going to look.
Fossil are the best for straps. Mostly they are quick release. I love that.
Have to love a shameless plug! Great video for newcomers to watch, short and sweet but covers lots of important information!
About point 1, one of the main reasons I bought a Tudor Pelagos was because of the titanium bracelet and the clasp. I've tried it on tropic strap, parachute strap and I think I'll keep it on the original bracelet.
You really shocked me with the day-date change function. That Is some fine information I've never seen. Thank you.
Broke the date function on my SKX by doing what you said. Was on my way to deploy and had to be up ultra early and forgot.
That last tip about lug to lug length is a great one. Can you please get TGV to understand that? He is always saying 42mm watches (except for his Squales) are too big yet the watch he is often saying is too big has a lug to lug shorter than his 40mm Submariner! :)
Yeah I see a lot of people overlooking that. For those that buy online it is crucial.
Ur putting out great videos real fast. Awesome vid as always!
I hope to keep this up! It's certainly a lot of work!
Ur is an old city in ancient Mesopotamia...
Another rule: You don’t have to have a diver watch. I don’t know how or why this became an horological commandment.
But at least one mechanical watch is a must.
Divers are the cheapest automatics from what I've seen in India. Everyone recommends divers first if you say you want a mechanical watch
I thought it was you have to have a dress watch.
Yea, I used to freak out about changing the date on my watches at night, but I have worked on so many watches that I service my own watches now and I'm not super concerned about it now. It's so rewarding when you take apart a movement and put it back together, even if you need a youtube video along the way.
Where do you buy your dress shirts that you usually wear in your videos? I have watched your videos for a while really like your style keep it up man!
I usually get more of my casual shirts from Taylor Stitch, J Crew, and Bonobos. Big fan of their oxfords.
Alright thanks for the answer :)
Very good video Teddy. I know this video is old but I still watch the videos I've not yet seen and I've been following you for quite some time. I don't see you as a fashion/lifestyle channel now. You're gearing more towards watches and I like it!
Hey it says your strap video is private? I have a hamilton jazz master maestro and an aquaracer Id like to look at some straps
My first watch was a Victorinox Infantry in 2012. I wore it daily for 5 years in every situation. After the crown stopped changing the date I started watch shopping and really fell in love with Seikos. It's now 2019 and I have more watches I can wear. Casio. Seiko. Timex Marlin. Not the nicest collection and comfortably afford.
I would say save up and get something you really want and commit to it. From there you can branch out and find what your likes and needs are from your first purchase. That was my experience.
Love all the watch knowledge you bestow upon the masses Mr. Baldassarre. I’m even more impressed y how you show the same knowledge and enthusiasm while discussing a 200 dolllar watch as well as a 20000 dollar watch plus you opened my eyes to a lot of watches and brands that I’ve never considered before.
As a new watch collector there's so may out there not sure what would be the best or what you recommend to start with I just got a aeromat gmt watch . The 2nd I just got is a citizen AT8010-58-E what should be my next watch to collect 🤔
Can anyone tell me what that rolex is and where i could get it. Stunning.
Is it still bad to change the date around midnight if you do it indirectly by rotating the minutes, rather than the date directly?
The one thing I would recommend to watch enthusiasts is to not lay your watch down on to its crown, especially if your crown isn't of the screw down type. Constant tapping of the crown as you lay your watch down could lead to damage inside the watch, causing costly repairs.
Hi, I am looking for an automatic dive watch. But I dont have too much money. Any sugestiones between 100 and 150 dollars?
My newbie mistake was buying a blue sunburst dial Orient Bambino, because it seemed like such an amazing and beautiful piece. You know, after seing YT videos about it... However, I quickly found out that in reality I wasn't comfortable wearing something like that from day to day, and I rarely go to dressy occasions where it would be more at home. It happened to be something wrong with it, which was good luck this time, because the seller agreed to let me return it. I didn't rebuy it.
I bought the Orient Defender a couple months ago as my first automatic. It's a nice everyday watch IMO.
Great video teddy that part about the date an day function really helps out I really appreciate that thanks.
So happy to hear that Phillip! Thanks for watching!
Awesome video as always Teddy, keep it up !!
Thank you, my friend.
Teddy Baldassarre - Happy 4th of July from So-Cal my friend!
I tried clicking the link in the description to your watch strap video, but it said it was private, and I couldn't view it.
The lugs can indeed make a huge difference. I have a Tissot Heritage 1936. It has a case size of 45 mm. In most watches that is way too large for my wrist. But because it has short wire lugs that bend downwards, it wears much smaller. My advise would be : Try it on your wrist before buying it.
Love Tissot's Heritage line!
you can tell how long you have been collecting , by how many straps you have also collected....also the misconception of quartz vs. automatic.....great tube Teddy
I have only been 'seriously' collecting for two to three years, but like I said in the video, straps are a huge part of watches. I could have probably bought another watch or two, but to me the straps are just as important to get the most out of the watches you own.
Hey Teddy where did you get the blue seiko 5?😍
Man, very cool channel! Thumbs up!
Thank you so much, my friend.
Other beginner mistakes: buying a Rolex or Tudor in 2018-2020 during the tulip mania craze; buying quartz --ever; buying at a mall; buying "Swiss" from shippers based in Bulgaria and India; buying a vintage but dead brand at a flea market just because it's marked "Swiss" on the dial, it's 'cheap' and it ticked a little; passing on a vintage Hamilton or Buren (one of the few exceptions to dead brands) with a 663/666 microrotor movement with decent case/dial in running condition; assuming vintage watches in gold won't make a comeback in your lifetime; wearing a leather strap on a watch you plan to use around water or for serious work outdoors; wearing a watch without a screwdown crown anywhere but the office or the opera; opening and regulating a watch yourself because you saw some guy do it on youtube with a toothpick.
Really good points here, my friend. I might have to reference this in a future video and give you credit for these great points.
Please do and thanks.
Chris Sullins
So true about the leather and water. I learned the hard way lol my leather band started to smell so bad after swimming with the watch
Chris Sullins whats wrong w quartz?
As a Bulgarian, I completely agree with you on that fourth point...
I think sometimes new collectors think they have to have a watch of every kind (ie. pilot, diver, dress), and buy to make the "best" collection instead of what they prefer and enjoy personally and end up with lots of regret at the start.
Yeah I have mixed feelings on the check off the box mentality.
What if your automatic stopped in the middle of 9pm and 3am.?is it safe to pull the crown out and slowly change to desired date?
I have bought a watch that was to busy for its size (Oris 57th Reno Air Races Limited Edition) - impossible to find the date triangle in its slot in normal light. Maybe it would have worked with a 43mm diameter (instead of 40) and a wider slot.
What I didn't know when I started:
1) That there was such a thing as sapphire crystal. Now, that is a requirement on all my watches.
2) That they have straps with butterfly clasps. I'm clumsy and have never liked fastening a strap every morning.
3) That there are no good lumes until you get to the expense of triton tubes.
4) That you need to buy a watch based on the diameter of your wrist. For me, that means a 36mm-39mm watch.
5) That for me hacking isn't important.
Not looking into whether an automatic hacks/hand-winds. Not thinking about the cost of servicing a used automatic watch. Not asking if a watch crystal has AR-coating.
Hahaha. You just described me just a couple of month’s ago!
Good video for newbies! If I may I would add 1/ do as much research as you can when buying a new watch I.e be patient 2/ be careful when buying from online sources as you need to buy from reliable sources 3/ eBay is a great place to shop however do get some advice from channels like your’s before trying to bid in auctions and yes, research the watch you intend to buy.
Thx again for a great video 👍🏻
Thank you for watching, Philip. I appreciate your continued support.
Watch strap video mentioned and linked is private now
thanks, while most of mistakes are known to me - the one about not changing the date between 12pm and 3am was an interesting find. Keep up the good work.
I've also realized that case size doesn't fully determine whether or not a watch will look huge on your wrist. Apart from the lug-to-lug height, also look at the size of the bezel and the dial. A watch that has thin bezels and a huge dial making up most of the case will look bigger than a watch with the same case diameter but thicker bezels and smaller dial. Of course this is harder to realize if you've got both watches side by side but on their own, this is quite true.
Hey Teddy, first time commenting big fan of your content and style keep it up! I have question as I'm watching more and more videos, is about researching watches- how do you do it? Through you and other channels I know what I'm looking for but when considering a micro brand or examining movements how should I go about that?
What about changing date with rolex quick adjust. I see the date instantly change over at 12 so does it count?
If you buy a mechanical chronograph, read the manual before operating it! While some chronos have a flyback feature, meaning they can be reset without stopping them, others (and this includes some very expensive watches) can be seriously damaged if the chronograph is not stopped before pressing the reset. Don't expect the warranty to cover you if you do this.
Noob question. Is it ok to add/takeout the links in your watch on your own? I would assume it’s no big deal, just don’t want to screw up a nice watch I’m getting.
I want that brown leather strap on weekender .where can I get it ?
Useful date change avoidance window.
I have my casio f91w since I was 11 and it's still works good as new untill now ❤
Man, I had a Timex once, it was on the dollar-grab-table. It was, well, just a throw away watch but I took care of it and it served me quite well for some time.
hi, ive got £1000 and i'm gonna treat myself to 4 watches, a diver, a dress, a chrono and a day to day. whats your recommendation? thx
0:14 informed purchase 知情的購賣(purchase 購買)
0:26 overlook 忽略
1:00 yet to be ... 還沒有
1:29 aspect 方面 / enthusiast 愛好者
2:39 prominent in 突出於 (prominent 著名的)
Thanks for the video...good information. Good luck launching your new straps!
Thank you so much, Chris.
How's that Strap video coming? This link is broken.
what about the protective glass being convex above the frame and thus prone to scratches
Good evening, Ted! I'm looking forward to buy one of your straps soon. Nice video for the people who are new to the watch Hobby. Even I did learn something new.