I bought the spring drive seiko SNR005 in 2005 and noticed the extremely accurate time keeping even better than my battery powered quartz watches. It has been almost 16 years and it has never been serviced and still runs flawlessly like day one.
My 83 year old aunt worked in a Omega store almost all her working life. She told me that the watch servicing is a "massive money making scam" that most big watch companies do. If they can fool everyone that they have sold a watch to into spending up to a $1000 or so on "resealing and servicing etc!".........(Well you get where i'm going to) Craig is spot on. Get the watch fixed when it breaks........."It will save you thousands over the years!"
Even Rolex states every 10 years is recommended, yet many dealers(authorized and grey market) will say every 3 to 5 years lol. Anyone with a lot of money in watches should probably have a timegrapher anyways to check for themselves how it's running.
To those who have hang ups on dings and scratchs just a possible idea, keep the watch in its original box then strap the box to your wrist this way the watch gets protected at all times the down side is it won't slip under a cuff.
That is what my watchmaker says. If it is not broken, do not fix it. He turned away 2 watches that I brought to him for "service". He checked them and they were totally fine.
Yes, he is. That is why I always use his services and refer my friends and co-workers to him. He is on 47th st, in Manhattan. I have 2 watchmakers: one is in Brooklyn for small things and the other one is on 47th St. This watchmaker can do anything. A real Master. By the way, I bought 2 Grand Seiko and pre-ordered another one (still waiting), on your advice, from Steve. I am very satisfied! Thank you!
@@axelfoley1768 I didn't read that as boasting at all. I read it as thanking the man in the video for helping him with connecting to the AD he bought those Grand Seikos from.
An absolute breath of fresh air here... Somebody buy the man a beer. Touches on issues that reach across the watch-connaisseur sphere of influence, and far beyond just the Rolex and GS crowd. People should lighten up about their watches. Just wear them for cripes sake. Subscribed here...
I have a 1969 Rolex Date 1505 , a wedding gift, I have never had it serviced. Runs great and still looks like new. Saying that, I would never submerge it. I only replaced the stretched band. I have many other watches but this one is like an old friend. I have easily buffed out scratches on the acrylic lens using toothpaste or silver polish. My uncle who gave it to me, is still running fine at 94. Great video.
Ive serviced one watch ever, it was running late... up to 15min a week. Changed the spring and done (nothing else) the rest of the watches i had had rotor replacement (6 times) because im a clumsy truck driver... and im keep on bashing my watches.
watchmaker here, authorized rolex service center. you're right, for the most part, about going without service. more parts will wear and need to be replaced, but it won't effect the price of service much. that's because the price of replacing parts is assumed, and the average service cost is increased to make up for it. responsible owners who bring their watch in before parts wear pay the same price. they're subsidizing irresponsible owners who go ten years w/o service and have a bunch of parts that need replacing. but do whatever you want I also wanted to comment on cleaning with soap. the gaskets in watches are impregnated with oil to repel water. soap will pull that oil out of the gaskets and dry them out. (same issue for showering) washing a watch with water is fine, just skip the soap.
Yeah; and you have to love how the guy charging people for sh!t they don't need is calling certain people "irresponsible"! LOL I think they are the smart ones. Get the other smucks to pay for it.
@@JaxWatchesandEDC I was told by a top Omega tech. Let the watch stop it get so bad at keeping time you catch stand it. The service to fix it will cost the same as a proactive overhaul.
I absolutely agree. That's something that annoys me about some mechanical watch haters. I saw one guy in YT comments say that it was stupid to buy a mechanical watch in the lower end(read ETA 2824
Golden words from a true gentleman. Changed my perspective on how I have been babying my Seikos and Omega too much than enjoying them for what they are. Not forgetting the point on dealing with watches from a financial standpoint (am currently still a student) all together. Subscribed after this video, looking forward to more to come!
Bought my Rolex Datejust in 1980, never been serviced, in fact didn't even wind up till 2016 ( didn't realise you could!!) I've never had a problem and the watch is still going strong.
Isaak Walton 38 years? Surely it cannot be keeping good accuracy. Check it against an app or electronic timepiece. I find my omega and breitling start losing about 15 -20 seconds a day after 7 or 8 years without a service. All the best.
Watches need servicing regardless of what this man says. Rolex made in 1980s had the 1520/1570 cal inside, it ran slower at 19000 speed or so and had thicker pinions then the more modern ones and lasted longer without wear. Ask yourself this. Would you run a car for 20 years or so without changing oils and a service. No you wouldn't as it wouldnt run as good. Remember watches generally run 24/7 cars don't. Cars need a service just like watches. If they didn't then I'd be out of work as I service watches all the time.
@@leecole5968 Comparing a car engine to a watch movement is absurd. The whole point of using Jewels in a watch is to minimize wear. If your watch is functioning accurately then you don't need to open it.
I love this guy's attitude to watches. I'm a domestic plumber by trade and have worn a Speedmaster Professional to work pretty much every day for the 15 years I've had it. It looks like a well worn watch if you look up close and I am on my second Hesalite crystal but I've never worried about it. The environmental torture tests this watch went through to get qualified for spaceflight has always assured me I'd never do anything more than cosmetic wear and tear to it. After 15 years I have decided to give it a break from the working environment and recently started wearing my Hamilton Khaki 38mm to work but the Speedmaster still comes to work occasionally, especially if I'm doing a job that requires a lot of timing operations. I suppose it helps a little that 15 years ago a brand new on the highstreet Moonwatch was "only" £1200 instead of the £4000 they cost today but still, I believe in using these things. Tool watches are supposed to be used as tools and I don't like the idea of keeping it in a padded box in perfect condition and just wearing it on Christmas day or whatever. Here is my Speedy at work imgur.com/a/ervsioj
I had to return my Grand Seiko Spring Drive Chronograph because the minute dial on the chronograph wasn’t working...it was under warranty and they sent it to Japan ...the service and the explanation from Grand seiko was excellent 10/10..The Spring drive is so accurate..a second a month ..I highly recommend it...
CraigShipp.com it was 3 months old...it took 2 months to get it back...they tested it for a 2 weeks after it was repaired. That was 2 years ago and it has worked perfectly since. The AD said it was the first Grand Seiko they ever returned in 12 years.
I’m with you about the servicing thing . I don’t get the not required service . Also, I agree with you 100% about just wearing the watch for whatever you want. Diving, dinner, softball game , beach , pool etc. I wear my watches for all occasions and don’t worry about scratches and service requirements.
40+ years of owning watches, never had one serviced. Spoke to a few watch makers, who said modern watches, if they're running ok, don't bother with routine servicing. There are some issues that could cost more than a typical servicing, but unlikely 99% of time. Quality watches will run for decades without problems, unless you really beat on them. My "daily beater" are not expensive, so I don't stress about that one.
Very refreshing to listen to. If I did not want scratches I would not wear my watch but then there would be no reason to have it. Needless to say I have scratched watches👍
That was a really short, honest and inspiring speech I have ever heard about these expensive toys... I just adjusted my thoughts and choose to enjoy it instead of overthinking... Thank you...
I have been graduated and started working for two years. I was always thinking of buying a rolex for my first quality watch. However I was stunned by the finish of the Grand Seiko when I see it in person that no other brand could. I got myself two grand seiko recently, one sport model and one dressier. With that money I couldn’t even buy a Rolex Oyster Perpetual. Never regret.
Great point, and I can add the following example into the mix, by the way. My grandfather bought one of the first Omega Seamasters Automatic when they first came out in 1948. He never had it serviced. I inherited it in 1984 when he passed away and have never had it serviced. When my grandfather first bought the watch, it ran around 1-2 seconds fast per day, and it still runs exactly the same now. I bought the newer Seamaster 300M ('Diver', they now call it) in 2016, just because it is a true dive watch, and I have absolutely no intention of having that serviced either until such time - if it ever comes - when its time-keeping starts to go awry (it has maintained, by the way, +0.3 to +1 second accuracy from day one). I totally agree with this chap that there is no point whatsoever in servicing a watch that it is running exactly as it should.
Very true. I had a 300m Seamaster, it was my only watch for over 15 years, I never took it off riding mountain bikes and motorbikes, going on the sea, showers etc. It's worked perfectly for over 15 years, then suddenly started doing and starting at random. You'll know when they need a service, no point doing it early.
@@MidAtlanticTV A few years on, do you have a preference to either sieko's or rolex's deployant clasp? It seems like the Seiko is overly thick in the clasp department.
@@MrJtrot90 My current rotation are the following: 1) Grand Seiko SBGA231 Diver in Titanium and I love the watch, including the clasp. When I first got the watch, I did think the clasp was too thick and not refined looking. But after about two weeks of use, the function won out and I now love the clasp. Sometimes you just have to wear and use a watch to appreciate it. 2) Grand Seiko SBGY002 18k Gold Dress Watch with an 18k Gold deployant clasp. In my opinion, this is the finest dress watch ever made. I did extensive research before I purchased the watch. They are rare so not so easy to find and I had to wait several months to get mine, it was worth the wait. I've had many solid gold watches over the years and this is the best dress watch by far. Also see: www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
Best video on watches I've seen in a very long time, you speak a lot of sense. Especially about not buying a rich man's watch if you're... Not a rich man. That was a painful lesson to hear, but I needed to hear it. Thanks for sharing your experience, much appreciated =)
Marcus Santer there is absolutely nothing wrong with saving up until you can afford the watch you want. The only thing he was right about in that regard is not buying it on credit.
Rolex was not a rich man's watch before 1990. You can thank inflation, marketing, and Hollywood for the hype and price increase. You can thank Hipsters, The Internet, and millennials like Hoodinkie for vintage Rolex sinful price increases (ex: $100k Daytonas that were once worth less than a Seiko in 1978). There are pre-owned watches at several price ranges. You can get a vintage Date Just from the 70's or 80's for $2000 -$3500 in good condition. That's not too expensive and most people can save enough to afford a watch priced at few grand. The real rule of thumb when it comes to buying a watch that will last you a lifetime. Save 1 or 2 months salary. Buy what suites your life style. If you're a mechanic you don't buy a gold Date Date. If you make over $200k you buy a Rolex and wear it like a G-Shock or a cheap Seiko beater to go golfing. Then you wear your Patek Philippe grand complication to a charity event or board room.
M Riley good points but I would add the quality of Rolex has improved over the years too. That said I would still say it’s best to limit watch purchases to one week’s income.
Agree. Good show. Just wear and enjoy. If it breaks fix it. None of my newer watches have needed any service. I had 3 watches from late 70's and early 80's that just went in for their first services. One was still running, two weren't. I like the used look of a watch that it gets from wear. I think it adds to its character.
If you want a watch case that won't scratch, I'd check out tungsten-carbide ones. That stuff is amazingly hard, which I found out when I scraped some against concrete. The concrete was scratched but not the tungsten-carbide!
I'll be buying a $16 grand Rolex watch today after watching this video. It will be the Sea Dweller 2 tone 2019. Thank you for giving me more confidence to buy this watch to enjoy and use it daily.
I absolutely agree. Been saying this for years. Obviously the manufacturers are all over wanting you to send your watch in for unnecessary service. I do agree if you are a professional scuba diver. That’s a bit different. Other than that. Don’t service it until it stops working. I owned my 1981 Vintage Submariner and didn’t have it serviced until several years ago. I am just saying….
Thanks for this! I am looking to get into my first 'high end' watch like the grand seiko lineup and in particular the snowflake. I have watched many other popular videos and it seems that everyone talks about the watch going up or down instead of the art/utility. I share the same sentiment with you of just enjoying the damn thing for what it is! Not losing sleep over these seemingly trivial issues like servicing, investment, or to 'fit in'.
Hear, hear! Don’t get me wrong; I’m not saying be reckless with it or drive over the thing, but those little scratches that accumulate over time are what make that watch yours.
Great video. Buy it because you like it but only if you can afford it and if it ain't broke don't fix it. Wise words. Also the urge to get a Spring drive is very strong in me now.
Great video! It frustrates me that most people talking about these issues are just trying to make a profit off and spread lies. Watches are meant to be enjoyed, and if you're worrying about value, you shouldn't have bought the watch.
Lol, I’ve been arguing these same points for years. You’re exactly right. Especially the investment points. Never buy a watch as an “investment”. That’s not what it’s for.
I have my dad's old 1986 Rolex Datejust. That's never been serviced, still keeps time at +/- 4 seconds per day and is completely water tight. This is a watch I have worn almost constantly for the last 10 years.
Thank you Craig. I agree with most of what you say. I think there is no problem with someone saving up to buy a Rolex to celebrate a work anniversary something momentous in their lives but I agree with you that it should never be a sacrifice or something that put them into debt. It is a luxury. Your advice about service and seals is spot on. Thank you for an excellent video :)
Eventually, the oils in the movement will get thicker and thicker and the watch will stop. Happened just a few days ago on an old pocket-watch my father was still using. However: I totally agree on the "don't rush it to service"-thing. My mom used to bring her Cartier into service every two years or so. I bet that after a 4 or 6 years, she could've bought a much nicer watch from all the money she blew on those services.
Plus every time they open and disassemble the watch there is the risk of accidental damage. It happened to me after the servicing a watch lost half of the power reserve.. the shop told me I dropped it but I was sure not
Actually newer synthetic oils become thinner not thicker which prolong the intervals between servicing. Natural oils tend to become thicker and after some time even solid and that can really mess up a watch.
Greetings from India. This video changed the whole perspective I was holding for luxury watches altogether. At the end I was like.. "Get this Gentleman a generous portion of finest single malt whisky served in Glencairn glass please." ❤️🥃
There's a lot of wisdom shared on this video. I had a titanium Seamaster for 12 years before it started slowing a bit, paid $350 for the service and it's been running for 5 years with no problems. I do a lot of swimming with it.
I have a solar, quartz, satellite Casio Oceanus. You say “it’s nice to have a watch that you only have to touch once a Month”. I never touch my Casio. Perpetual calendar, exact to the 1/1000 of a second. Always! Totally agree with the “service” idea. Great video.
I enjoyed the vid. I'm intrigued with the discussion about some of your views on watch ownership, especially servicing. I think what most folks are missing about what you're saying is that you don't have to service it as often as recommended. And, you may actually be able to service it only when it fails to function according to its specs. That is if the wearer doesn't cause the watch to fail themselves. Folks make the car maintenance analogy to try and dispel your opinion. The higher quality car you have, the longer the maintenance intervals may be. Most of the recommended maintenance intervals are a lot shorter than they have to be just to get you to spend more money, more often. As some have mentioned, the lubes used in even lower end watches are way better than what was used in the past. The same goes for motor oil today. Jaguar now recommends oil changes @ 15k for all of their vehicles. My point is that if you purchase a Rolex, Grand Seiko, Omega or any other high end watch you can rest assured it will run at spec for a very long time despite not being serviced when recommended. Will it fail if not serviced when recommended? I doubt it. Spend the money for servicing at recommended intervals if you choose. But if you spent money on a high quality watch, you bought it for the high quality workmanship and reliability known to that brand. Point being, don't get your boxers, or Vicki Secrets, in a bunch if you miss a service by a year or two, or 10 lol.
Im a watch maker!the oil runs dry after about 3to5 years!!? Then could!! Say could take a couple of years for the pinions to wear!!!! eventually would need new part/s!!!thats the whole point of a service!!! buy a Merc N probably dtive it many many years before problems because of non service!!! like someone commented!!!if thats there attitude!!! then buy a Casio????🤯
Thank you for your words of wisdom that comes with age. Luxury objects you buy are NEVER investments. Some examples are cars, jewelry, or watches of course. Cash or liquid assets are always king.
I made over 4,000 dives all over the world with my Rolex Submariner, never missed a beat and it functioned as intended, including the rotating bezel to keep track of decompression time. It is a superb diver's watch. Serviced three times over 40 years. I no longer dive with it, I now use a Swiss Army diver's watch.
Back in the day when I got my first command as a radioman on a frigate I had the chance to learn SCUBA diving there but still needed accurate time (look up KW 37 for reasons). So the cheap and accurate Casio was I used to use was out and something else had to replace it. The Citizen and Seiko dive watches the other seamen wore where of no use to me, you couldn't even set then to the second! So I spent almost all of a month expandable income on a - then swiss made - Dugena Nautica T200 Quartz diver. Whenever the battery was low, I had it changed at a watchmakers who would replace the seals and pressure test it. Ok, one time in Puerto Rico I just got the battery replaced :) After I had a diving accident and broke an ear drum, I didn't care anymore about the seals and just had the battery replaced whenever needed. Fast forward to 2020. I brought the rather worn watch to a watchmaker to have it "serviced". He replaced the seals and the battery and tested the watch to 20bar. I paid 58 Euro for, well worth it for a 38 year old battle scratched watch with lots of memories. And it is still as accurate as it was in April 1982 when I bought it.
I have a current work collegue who owns a Rolex Explorer, and she has worn it everyday of the last 10 years owning it. Well it started losing time just recently (like 15 - 20 secs per day) and she was quoted Aust $1,000 ( by Rolex) to service / repair the time piece. She did NOT choose the replace the dial or hand set.
very sensible video, my panerai lost some money since i buy but after seeing your video i am so satisfied and really don't care what it worth now,i worked hard and safe money to buy that watch and love it every single time I see my wrist when its on.
Some valid points in your video. Titanium is practical but most of the time it doesn't look great IMHO and I write this as I wear my solar Citizen high grade titanium watch on rubber strap. I can barely feel it. It's convenient for the gym. You don't want to take your luxury piece and knock it against machines and weights. So no Rolex at the gym for me. When you buy a luxury watch, you appreciate the sheen of the nicely brushed or polished case in steel or precious metal. It's like jewelry and the heft is part of the enjoyment. If it's heavy it feels good, within reason. If it's lightweight it feels flimsy, it's totally subjective and down to personal taste but most wearers still associate weight with quality. Rolex has greater resale value than most other brands including Grand Seiko, that's a fact. So if you don't want it anymore, you'll recoup a higher percentage of your expense. You'll even make some cash if the model is popular and in demand. That doesn't make it an investment but it's a nice bonus on top of wearing a watch you've liked and have been enjoying. It should never be the reason for buying a watch thiugh IMHO.
The special alloy of titanium that Grand Seiko uses is really difficult to see the difference between stainless steel as far as appearance goes. It really looks good. As far as quality feel on the wrist both my Grand Seiko watches feel and look great on the wrist. They are solid. By the way I wouldn't think twice about wearing my watches in the gym and anywhere else. I bought them to use them. So far the super hard titanium that Grand Seiko uses is holding up great!
Not to offend! But several key points in your videos have much to do with your eyesight. I have a Snowflake and also a couple stainless steel GS. The sharpness of finishing and lustre on the SS models is notably superior to my eyes than on the titanium. The Snowy was my first GS. All after that, I chose stainless steel. The finer qualities of GS finishing is still important to me :)
Just FYI- My 2008 Day-Date stopped. It had a broken mainspring. My local independent Rolex shop does a full service for $495 (total) for a Day-Date. It includes any new original Rolex internal parts if needed, main springs, pallet forks, Etc. They promise to get it done in a week. The son does the polishing and the dad does the disassembling, cleaning, and repairs. Comes with a 2-year warranty. There is no extra charge for internal parts, and they keep it in their shop and don't send it out. I didn't want to send it out for fear of package theft.
My great grandfather was a master watch builder, GM of Hamilton watch company in Lancaster PA. I found a watch with 21 jewels that he made in 1935. I found it in 2006 cranked it 10 times and it came to life and checked the minute hand, SPOT ON. I think service of a working watch, is a waste of money. I have 3 daydates, 2 I bought new and one I inherited. Only time I brought them for service was if something was wrong. They will last 3 lifetimes. Good advice. Those are not scratches, they are life marks. They are earned
Amen Brother !!!! I just think the Grand Seiko is Absolutely Beautifully Made. Period !!!! They aren't playing stock games with their watches like Rolex. Rolex like most companies has become greedy. Honestly they just don't impress me with the looks. Grand Seiko is a much better looking watch and in my opinion a Better Quality for the money !!!!
Had my Rolex serviced for the first time last year after 4 years of ownership. The service was $600.00 for the basic mechanical service, 180.00 for a new crystal, 135.00 for a new crown and 57.00 for shipping, for a total of $972.00. I wear my watch and honestly it was looking pretty rough cosmetically, though still keeping good time. When the watch came back from servicing it looked as it did when new. In four or five years when it's scuffed and scratched, I'll send it in again. I made the decision to purchase the watch, I believe I'm qualified to decide if and when it needs to be serviced. I also routinely service my cars, bikes, firearms and photo equipment. It's a personal choice, though I understand that your experience may be different.
My concern would be all that polishing. By the way I only have my camera gear serviced when it gives trouble as well. For example when I dropped my Nikon D700 with my 24-70 lens in a creek it went in for a $700 service/repair : ( As far as vehicles go that's a different story. I keep all the fluids clean in all my vehicles. Not necessary with watches. For example if you had waited 15 years to have your service done the cost would be the same. Not so with a car. The car would need major repairs.
CraigShipp.com I certainly appreciate your point , but given the amount of damage I was able to inflict in four short years, I'm not sure the watch would be wearable after 15. I'm definitely of the "if you own it, use it" school of thought. Enjoyed your video, have a great day!
As I have been a watch repairer and maker for over sixty years I appreciate good engineering when I see it. And I must say that Rolex watches are superb watches but are well over priced when it comes to value for money, and as far as servicing cost it is a complete ripoff, but there again a fool and his money are soon parted. I must say that I agree with 95% of what you say in your video.
The thing is that Rolex don’t devalue like other brands and they’re a good investment. You are also buying into a prestigious brand unlike Seiko. Sorry but I don’t agree with the ‘fool and his money’ statement
Here in Germany it's the same with cars. You see Youngsters who work minimum wage drive Mercedes C63 AMG etc. But if you take a look behind the scenes, they are in debt for decades for that while their whole 7 People family lives in a three room appartement trying to make ends meet.
This guy is like my angry grandpa getting a little wasted and then ranting about his wristwatches. Loved it, 10/10. Also great information from an obviously experienced collector.
Intresting viewpoint on service. And also agree on don't buy a luxury watch with borrowed money. But sir, please consider your shirt patttern next time. Also that GS with the blue dial is just plain awesome.
I have three Rolexs Every time when I buy from dealership he says serving Between 5-6 years as an Attention I smile and i told him you You will not see my face until the watch stops :)
They all work and accurate the oldest one since 2001 never serviced then the other 2011 and the last 2016 all never touch service But I like the watches and I love switching a lot between my watches You can feel the closeness of the service more years feel the crown becomes heavier simple feel when you adjust time or when you winding and that simple feel Over the years will increasing more and more until hardened
I think the Rolex Ladies 31mm and 26mm watches are more sensitive and need a service faster than the larger sizes. My experience tow time is the same with my wife's 31mm Stopped and the crown frozen After seven to eight years I think the reason is that they do not always wear and often in the box and I think this is the cause of the lubrication no part need and my mother's 26mm It was an emergency cause ,i did not known, but there was the sound of the Rotor iThink fell from the niche The cost was almost the same and since that time I knew the plan with the service
Great video. Subscribed. You touched on a lot of things I agree with. First, if it’s keeping good time, it doesn’t need a service. Second, if you can’t pay cash, you can’t afford it. Third, wear your watch. People getting bent about hairline scratches on their watch - you can’t take it with you, use it or sell it.
My 2005 Seiko Spring Drive purchased in 2005 and it never needs service. Its accuracy is dead on with the Radio Controlled Clock for weeks. The Spring Drive only needs time correction at Daylight Saving Time change. I take shower with the watch on my wrist.
When I took my watch to a watchmaker, who is in the business for many years and his shop was previously run by his father and grandfather. He told me that the mechanical watch should only be bought if it breaks or gets water damaged otherwise it will work perfectly for years.
Craig. around the 8 to 9min mark discussion; i think generally titanium despite tougher , is not more scratch resistant compare to watch grade steel. however, you need to say clearly you are referring to grand seiko special Titanium ( probably with Diashield Coating) or some special higher grade titanium like super titanium of citizen or other brands...
Actually the titanium that Grand Seiko uses is a special alloy that's harder and more scratch resistant than stainless steel. The watches like the Shogun use coatings that are harder still but the downside is if they get scratched they can't be refinished easily. Learn more at: www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
My first watch, a Caravelle, was bought for me by mum and dad in 1961. It has never been serviced and still runs in 2021. For 40 years I never wore it as it languished in a draw but it’s still good.
I bought a second hand seiko vintage with 6309 movement. Movement was already working. Now serviced after 45 years. Just one part replaced and that is backcase gasket.
First time viewer, although a tad long I enjoyed it immensely! I will subscribe now. You made perfect sense, everything was spot on in my opinion and I am NOT a knowledgeable as you are by far but I do like watches and weapons. I will never be able to purchase a Rolex but I really would if I could. Datjust36 would be my choice in all white dial with stick hands, lumped of course, lol.. Nice video, continue please.
I've worn my Rolex Sub virtually everyday for 18 years. No problems. Sure it's gotten a few scratches. I do wear it during water sports. I've rafted every river in the Colorado river system including the Grand Canyon and Cataract Canyon. It works fine. Some of the southwest rivers are essentially mud flows. I won't take it in for servicing until the day something goes wrong. I paid $3600 for it and I could probably get around $5K for it now. But I don't care about the value if I sold it. It gives me value as a watch that won't break and can be worn with a tux or swim trunks.
I’m at 14 years w a sub, flawless performance and I never remove it. Work on my diesel truck wearing it. I previously worked on and around steel ladders and hit the watch multiple times. The heavier mass mentioned in the video is nonsense. Lighter weight watches just feel cheap, I’d be happy with a DSSD. I seriously doubt that beast is gonna bust easily because it’s “heavy”
The exception is the titanium alloy that Grand Seiko uses. It's harder than the stainless steel of the sub. Really tough stuff. Doesn't feel cheap in any way.
Totally agree with pretty much everything you mention if not all. Only service a watch if it's necessary with cases as accuracy, stop working or water seal broke.. etc.. Also it's true buy a watch you like to wear for a long time, it's not an investment. By the time you want a Rolex modern model update after 20 years you still need to put a pile of cash to do so for the upgrade!! Unless you have a vintage Daytona or other hot watches, they're vey wanted!
Ive recently bought a expolorer 2 from 97'. Its been in service twice, and unfortunately it had replacements of both dial and hands the in the first service. Second time service 2021. Thanks to your channel and your knowledge, Im not going to have it serviced for atleast 15 years from now. Great content💯
Exactly. You touched on all the points I believe as well. It's not like a quality watch is just going to completely implode under normal wear conditions, or sitting in a nice dry watch box for years. As long as you take reasonable care of it, you really only need to service a watch if there's a PROBLEM WITH IT.
You are totally right, the biggest misconception, is aggressive salesman like to say your watch is like your car it needs service every few years, I’m talking automatic of course, once you start it’s game over for the piece, they will never get it to run right again it will always need service, the money game or business....
My 1997 Bond Omega Seamaster still working well and keep good time since I bought it 21 years ago and I have not send it for services since. Totally agreed with u sir...no need to send for services unless something wrong with it...cheers.
How often do you "service" a watch? Do the numbers. If you service, for example, every five years you will spend a lot of $$ that you could instead invest. Money invested should double every 7 years. Can you see how far behind you end up spending money on servicing? Save your money!
Agree with the point that "if not broken, don't fix it". but about babysitting a watch I understand the reason and how they feel. some people have OCD issue (like me), but I think scratches gives a watch identity, a charisma. But for people with OCD, they would feel so uncomfortable and annoyed at first when their watch accidentally scratched.
Great points. I have a Seiko automatic that hit the tile floor so hard it dented the case and years later the watch still runs fine. Why would I have it serviced? For what?
This guy packed more common sense and practical information into one video than I have viewed in 100 hours of watch related videos. Bravo!
Thank you for the kind words! www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
This guy is honestly one of the most logical guys I've heard in a while. Absolutely brilliant points
Thank you!
I bought the spring drive seiko SNR005 in 2005 and noticed the extremely accurate time keeping even better than my battery powered quartz watches. It has been almost 16 years and it has never been serviced and still runs flawlessly like day one.
Great report! www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
Spring drive movements, however, by design, show less wear.
My 83 year old aunt worked in a Omega store almost all her working life. She told me that the watch servicing is a "massive money making scam" that most big watch companies do. If they can fool everyone that they have sold a watch to into spending up to a $1000 or so on "resealing and servicing etc!".........(Well you get where i'm going to) Craig is spot on. Get the watch fixed when it breaks........."It will save you thousands over the years!"
Yep. www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
Even Rolex states every 10 years is recommended, yet many dealers(authorized and grey market) will say every 3 to 5 years lol. Anyone with a lot of money in watches should probably have a timegrapher anyways to check for themselves how it's running.
To those who have hang ups on dings and scratchs just a possible idea, keep the watch in its original box then strap the box to your wrist this way the watch gets protected at all times the down side is it won't slip under a cuff.
lol
😂😂😂😂😂
Marco Castagnetti lol. Plus it'd look just a tad silly! 😂
But the box helps maintain resale value! Better wrap the whole thing in bubble wrap to be sure
Sleeveless or short sleeve shirt on the watch side you wear would be an idea!
As a watch collector, I have to say this is one of the most sensible videos I’ve seen about watches in a long time
That you for watching! www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
That is what my watchmaker says. If it is not broken, do not fix it. He turned away 2 watches that I brought to him for "service". He checked them and they were totally fine.
That's an honest watchmaker.
Yes, he is. That is why I always use his services and refer my friends and co-workers to him. He is on 47th st, in Manhattan. I have 2 watchmakers: one is in Brooklyn for small things and the other one is on 47th St. This watchmaker can do anything. A real Master. By the way, I bought 2 Grand Seiko and pre-ordered another one (still waiting), on your advice, from Steve. I am very satisfied! Thank you!
Vlad TheImpaler Central Watch repair is also an excellent watchmaker.
@@vladtheimpaler5090 save your pathetic boasting. I couldn't give a flying frog if you purchased ten thousand Grand Seikos
@@axelfoley1768 I didn't read that as boasting at all. I read it as thanking the man in the video for helping him with connecting to the AD he bought those Grand Seikos from.
An absolute breath of fresh air here... Somebody buy the man a beer.
Touches on issues that reach across the watch-connaisseur sphere of influence, and far beyond just the Rolex and GS crowd. People should lighten up about their watches. Just wear them for cripes sake. Subscribed here...
Thank you!!!
You’re a woman.......
Couldn’t agree more
I have a 1969 Rolex Date 1505 , a wedding gift, I have never had it serviced. Runs great and still looks like new. Saying that, I would never submerge it. I only replaced the stretched band. I have many other watches but this one is like an old friend. I have easily buffed out scratches on the acrylic lens using toothpaste or silver polish. My uncle who gave it to me, is still running fine at 94. Great video.
Cool! I had a 1966 model. Loved it!
Finally, someone who really makes sense regarding watches. Well done.👏
Thanks!
Ive serviced one watch ever, it was running late... up to 15min a week. Changed the spring and done (nothing else) the rest of the watches i had had rotor replacement (6 times) because im a clumsy truck driver... and im keep on bashing my watches.
watchmaker here, authorized rolex service center.
you're right, for the most part, about going without service. more parts will wear and need to be replaced, but it won't effect the price of service much. that's because the price of replacing parts is assumed, and the average service cost is increased to make up for it. responsible owners who bring their watch in before parts wear pay the same price. they're subsidizing irresponsible owners who go ten years w/o service and have a bunch of parts that need replacing. but do whatever you want
I also wanted to comment on cleaning with soap. the gaskets in watches are impregnated with oil to repel water. soap will pull that oil out of the gaskets and dry them out. (same issue for showering) washing a watch with water is fine, just skip the soap.
Good point on the soap. I actually don't wash my watches often so sometimes the inside of the bracelets need some scrubbing : )
So you pay the same price for service if you need parts or not.
Yeah; and you have to love how the guy charging people for sh!t they don't need is calling certain people "irresponsible"! LOL
I think they are the smart ones. Get the other smucks to pay for it.
@@JaxWatchesandEDC I was told by a top Omega tech. Let the watch stop it get so bad at keeping time you catch stand it. The service to fix it will cost the same as a proactive overhaul.
Seems like a good age to be an "irresponsible" owner kek
I absolutely agree. That's something that annoys me about some mechanical watch haters. I saw one guy in YT comments say that it was stupid to buy a mechanical watch in the lower end(read ETA 2824
Maybe he's in the service business!
2824 is so reliable, you don't have to service for a decade.I've gone longer with -5 a day.I can live with that.
I had to service a Seiko 5 after more than 20 years. Full service was $30.
WOW!
ipariszalonna That's impressive.
Golden words from a true gentleman. Changed my perspective on how I have been babying my Seikos and Omega too much than enjoying them for what they are. Not forgetting the point on dealing with watches from a financial standpoint (am currently still a student) all together. Subscribed after this video, looking forward to more to come!
Thank you for watching! www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
Bought my Rolex Datejust in 1980, never been serviced, in fact didn't even wind up till 2016 ( didn't realise you could!!) I've never had a problem and the watch is still going strong.
WOW. That's amazing. How accurate is it now?
Isaak Walton 38 years? Surely it cannot be keeping good accuracy. Check it against an app or electronic timepiece. I find my omega and breitling start losing about 15 -20 seconds a day after 7 or 8 years without a service. All the best.
Watches need servicing regardless of what this man says. Rolex made in 1980s had the 1520/1570 cal inside, it ran slower at 19000 speed or so and had thicker pinions then the more modern ones and lasted longer without wear. Ask yourself this. Would you run a car for 20 years or so without changing oils and a service. No you wouldn't as it wouldnt run as good. Remember watches generally run 24/7 cars don't. Cars need a service just like watches. If they didn't then I'd be out of work as I service watches all the time.
@@leecole5968 Comparing a car engine to a watch movement is absurd. The whole point of using Jewels in a watch is to minimize wear. If your watch is functioning accurately then you don't need to open it.
The best way to ruin a watch movement.
I love this guy's attitude to watches. I'm a domestic plumber by trade and have worn a Speedmaster Professional to work pretty much every day for the 15 years I've had it. It looks like a well worn watch if you look up close and I am on my second Hesalite crystal but I've never worried about it. The environmental torture tests this watch went through to get qualified for spaceflight has always assured me I'd never do anything more than cosmetic wear and tear to it. After 15 years I have decided to give it a break from the working environment and recently started wearing my Hamilton Khaki 38mm to work but the Speedmaster still comes to work occasionally, especially if I'm doing a job that requires a lot of timing operations. I suppose it helps a little that 15 years ago a brand new on the highstreet Moonwatch was "only" £1200 instead of the £4000 they cost today but still, I believe in using these things.
Tool watches are supposed to be used as tools and I don't like the idea of keeping it in a padded box in perfect condition and just wearing it on Christmas day or whatever. Here is my Speedy at work imgur.com/a/ervsioj
Thanks👍for that
A real horological legend you've got there, congrats!
That sweep on the GS love it.
For sure!
I had to return my Grand Seiko Spring Drive Chronograph because the minute dial on the chronograph wasn’t working...it was under warranty and they sent it to Japan ...the service and the explanation from Grand seiko was excellent 10/10..The Spring drive is so accurate..a second a month ..I highly recommend it...
How old was the watch when it failed? What was the repair turnaround time?
CraigShipp.com it was 3 months old...it took 2 months to get it back...they tested it for a 2 weeks after it was repaired. That was 2 years ago and it has worked perfectly since. The AD said it was the first Grand Seiko they ever returned in 12 years.
Yep, my AD has been selling GS for about four years and has had no failures so far.
I’m with you about the servicing thing . I don’t get the not required service .
Also, I agree with you 100% about just wearing the watch for whatever you want.
Diving, dinner, softball game , beach , pool etc. I wear my watches for all occasions and don’t worry about scratches and service requirements.
40+ years of owning watches, never had one serviced. Spoke to a few watch makers, who said modern watches, if they're running ok, don't bother with routine servicing. There are some issues that could cost more than a typical servicing, but unlikely 99% of time. Quality watches will run for decades without problems, unless you really beat on them. My "daily beater" are not expensive, so I don't stress about that one.
Well done. You have saved lots of money over the years. Hopefully you invested some of it in bitcoin! www.craigshipp.com/Bitcoin
Very refreshing to listen to. If I did not want scratches I would not wear my watch but then there would be no reason to have it. Needless to say I have scratched watches👍
That was a really short, honest and inspiring speech I have ever heard about these expensive toys... I just adjusted my thoughts and choose to enjoy it instead of overthinking... Thank you...
You're welcome! www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
I have been graduated and started working for two years. I was always thinking of buying a rolex for my first quality watch. However I was stunned by the finish of the Grand Seiko when I see it in person that no other brand could. I got myself two grand seiko recently, one sport model and one dressier. With that money I couldn’t even buy a Rolex Oyster Perpetual. Never regret.
I agree! www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
Great point, and I can add the following example into the mix, by the way. My grandfather bought one of the first Omega Seamasters Automatic when they first came out in 1948. He never had it serviced. I inherited it in 1984 when he passed away and have never had it serviced. When my grandfather first bought the watch, it ran around 1-2 seconds fast per day, and it still runs exactly the same now. I bought the newer Seamaster 300M ('Diver', they now call it) in 2016, just because it is a true dive watch, and I have absolutely no intention of having that serviced either until such time - if it ever comes - when its time-keeping starts to go awry (it has maintained, by the way, +0.3 to +1 second accuracy from day one). I totally agree with this chap that there is no point whatsoever in servicing a watch that it is running exactly as it should.
Very true. I had a 300m Seamaster, it was my only watch for over 15 years, I never took it off riding mountain bikes and motorbikes, going on the sea, showers etc. It's worked perfectly for over 15 years, then suddenly started doing and starting at random. You'll know when they need a service, no point doing it early.
I agree totally, if it ain’t broke don’t fix it.
Every part of this man's presentation is uncomfortably honest and goes against popular opinion and it is so damn refreshing to hear, well done sir!
Thank you!
@@MidAtlanticTV A few years on, do you have a preference to either sieko's or rolex's deployant clasp? It seems like the Seiko is overly thick in the clasp department.
@@MrJtrot90 My current rotation are the following: 1) Grand Seiko SBGA231 Diver in Titanium and I love the watch, including the clasp. When I first got the watch, I did think the clasp was too thick and not refined looking. But after about two weeks of use, the function won out and I now love the clasp. Sometimes you just have to wear and use a watch to appreciate it. 2) Grand Seiko SBGY002 18k Gold Dress Watch with an 18k Gold deployant clasp. In my opinion, this is the finest dress watch ever made. I did extensive research before I purchased the watch. They are rare so not so easy to find and I had to wait several months to get mine, it was worth the wait. I've had many solid gold watches over the years and this is the best dress watch by far. Also see: www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
24 minutes of real talk. This dude is a king.
Thank you! www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
Best video on watches I've seen in a very long time, you speak a lot of sense. Especially about not buying a rich man's watch if you're... Not a rich man. That was a painful lesson to hear, but I needed to hear it. Thanks for sharing your experience, much appreciated =)
Thank you!
Marcus Santer there is absolutely nothing wrong with saving up until you can afford the watch you want. The only thing he was right about in that regard is not buying it on credit.
Rolex was not a rich man's watch before 1990. You can thank inflation, marketing, and Hollywood for the hype and price increase. You can thank Hipsters, The Internet, and millennials like Hoodinkie for vintage Rolex sinful price increases (ex: $100k Daytonas that were once worth less than a Seiko in 1978). There are pre-owned watches at several price ranges. You can get a vintage Date Just from the 70's or 80's for $2000 -$3500 in good condition. That's not too expensive and most people can save enough to afford a watch priced at few grand. The real rule of thumb when it comes to buying a watch that will last you a lifetime. Save 1 or 2 months salary. Buy what suites your life style. If you're a mechanic you don't buy a gold Date Date. If you make over $200k you buy a Rolex and wear it like a G-Shock or a cheap Seiko beater to go golfing. Then you wear your Patek Philippe grand complication to a charity event or board room.
M Riley good points but I would add the quality of Rolex has improved over the years too. That said I would still say it’s best to limit watch purchases to one week’s income.
I absolutely agree with you. This is the video I needed to watch. It's a good reality check!
Agree. Good show. Just wear and enjoy. If it breaks fix it. None of my newer watches have needed any service. I had 3 watches from late 70's and early 80's that just went in for their first services. One was still running, two weren't. I like the used look of a watch that it gets from wear. I think it adds to its character.
For sure!
I clean my watches about once a week with windex and an old T shirt. Not because they’re dirty, I just get bored.
LOL
Try diswaher soap with your fingers as the wash cloth and rinse drying with a shammy and see how that works.
sounds good!
James McNary if you're that bored you can come around to my place and give it a clean! ;)
Haha
I love your straight talking, no pomp whatsoever. A man I’d like to buy a watch from!
Thank you. Steve at littletreasury.com is a great guy to buy a watch from!
Wore my submariner for 21 years, never took it off except to clean it occasionally. Now my son can wear it for the rest of his life
Well done! These watches are made to be on wrist not in boxes! www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
If you want a watch case that won't scratch, I'd check out tungsten-carbide ones. That stuff is amazingly hard, which I found out when I scraped some against concrete. The concrete was scratched but not the tungsten-carbide!
WOW!
Those Grand Seiko's looked stunning. Loved the format and honest flow. Great video
Thank you!
I'll be buying a $16 grand Rolex watch today after watching this video. It will be the Sea Dweller 2 tone 2019. Thank you for giving me more confidence to buy this watch to enjoy and use it daily.
Keep in mind for that kind of money you could get a mint condition DAY-DATE model 18238.
suuuuure
I absolutely agree. Been saying this for years. Obviously the manufacturers are all over wanting you to send your watch in for unnecessary service. I do agree if you are a professional scuba diver. That’s a bit different. Other than that. Don’t service it until it stops working. I owned my 1981 Vintage Submariner and didn’t have it serviced until several years ago. I am just saying….
Thanks for this! I am looking to get into my first 'high end' watch like the grand seiko lineup and in particular the snowflake. I have watched many other popular videos and it seems that everyone talks about the watch going up or down instead of the art/utility. I share the same sentiment with you of just enjoying the damn thing for what it is! Not losing sleep over these seemingly trivial issues like servicing, investment, or to 'fit in'.
I hear you! www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
I don't mind the scratches that accumulates over time, to me, it adds character.
Correct! www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
Hear, hear! Don’t get me wrong; I’m not saying be reckless with it or drive over the thing, but those little scratches that accumulate over time are what make that watch yours.
Great video.
Buy it because you like it but only if you can afford it and if it ain't broke don't fix it. Wise words.
Also the urge to get a Spring drive is very strong in me now.
Great video! It frustrates me that most people talking about these issues are just trying to make a profit off and spread lies. Watches are meant to be enjoyed, and if you're worrying about value, you shouldn't have bought the watch.
Well said!
Lol, I’ve been arguing these same points for years. You’re exactly right. Especially the investment points. Never buy a watch as an “investment”. That’s not what it’s for.
Yep, some folks just don't want to learn - www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
I have my dad's old 1986 Rolex Datejust. That's never been serviced, still keeps time at +/- 4 seconds per day and is completely water tight. This is a watch I have worn almost constantly for the last 10 years.
Nice piece. www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
Thank you Craig. I agree with most of what you say. I think there is no problem with someone saving up to buy a Rolex to celebrate a work anniversary something momentous in their lives but I agree with you that it should never be a sacrifice or something that put them into debt. It is a luxury. Your advice about service and seals is spot on. Thank you for an excellent video :)
Thank you!
Eventually, the oils in the movement will get thicker and thicker and the watch will stop. Happened just a few days ago on an old pocket-watch my father was still using. However: I totally agree on the "don't rush it to service"-thing. My mom used to bring her Cartier into service every two years or so. I bet that after a 4 or 6 years, she could've bought a much nicer watch from all the money she blew on those services.
Well said! www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
Plus every time they open and disassemble the watch there is the risk of accidental damage. It happened to me after the servicing a watch lost half of the power reserve.. the shop told me I dropped it but I was sure not
Actually newer synthetic oils become thinner not thicker which prolong the intervals between servicing. Natural oils tend to become thicker and after some time even solid and that can really mess up a watch.
Greetings from India. This video changed the whole perspective I was holding for luxury watches altogether. At the end I was like.. "Get this Gentleman a generous portion of finest single malt whisky served in Glencairn glass please." ❤️🥃
There's a lot of wisdom shared on this video. I had a titanium Seamaster for 12 years before it started slowing a bit, paid $350 for the service and it's been running for 5 years with no problems. I do a lot of swimming with it.
Good info!
I have a solar, quartz, satellite Casio Oceanus. You say “it’s nice to have a watch that you only have to touch once a Month”. I never touch my Casio. Perpetual calendar, exact to the 1/1000 of a second. Always! Totally agree with the “service” idea. Great video.
Glad you liked it! www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
I had a feeling these $500.00 and up "5 year recommended services" were a load of b.s. Great vid.
It's called a money grab!
@@MidAtlanticTV It should be called unarmed robbery...lol.
I hear you!
I enjoyed the vid. I'm intrigued with the discussion about some of your views on watch ownership, especially servicing. I think what most folks are missing about what you're saying is that you don't have to service it as often as recommended. And, you may actually be able to service it only when it fails to function according to its specs. That is if the wearer doesn't cause the watch to fail themselves. Folks make the car maintenance analogy to try and dispel your opinion. The higher quality car you have, the longer the maintenance intervals may be. Most of the recommended maintenance intervals are a lot shorter than they have to be just to get you to spend more money, more often. As some have mentioned, the lubes used in even lower end watches are way better than what was used in the past. The same goes for motor oil today. Jaguar now recommends oil changes @ 15k for all of their vehicles. My point is that if you purchase a Rolex, Grand Seiko, Omega or any other high end watch you can rest assured it will run at spec for a very long time despite not being serviced when recommended. Will it fail if not serviced when recommended? I doubt it. Spend the money for servicing at recommended intervals if you choose. But if you spent money on a high quality watch, you bought it for the high quality workmanship and reliability known to that brand. Point being, don't get your boxers, or Vicki Secrets, in a bunch if you miss a service by a year or two, or 10 lol.
Good points!
Im a watch maker!the oil runs dry after about 3to5 years!!? Then could!! Say could take a couple of years for the pinions to wear!!!! eventually would need new part/s!!!thats the whole point of a service!!! buy a Merc N probably dtive it many many years before problems because of non service!!! like someone commented!!!if thats there attitude!!! then buy a Casio????🤯
Thank you for your words of wisdom that comes with age. Luxury objects you buy are NEVER investments. Some examples are cars, jewelry, or watches of course. Cash or liquid assets are always king.
And Real Estate!
I made over 4,000 dives all over the world with my Rolex Submariner, never missed a beat and it functioned as intended, including the rotating bezel to keep track of decompression time. It is a superb diver's watch. Serviced three times over 40 years. I no longer dive with it, I now use a Swiss Army diver's watch.
This is the best video online about watch collecting. Should be the first one to pop up
Thank you!
Back in the day when I got my first command as a radioman on a frigate I had the chance to learn SCUBA diving there but still needed accurate time (look up KW 37 for reasons). So the cheap and accurate Casio was I used to use was out and something else had to replace it. The Citizen and Seiko dive watches the other seamen wore where of no use to me, you couldn't even set then to the second! So I spent almost all of a month expandable income on a - then swiss made - Dugena Nautica T200 Quartz diver. Whenever the battery was low, I had it changed at a watchmakers who would replace the seals and pressure test it. Ok, one time in Puerto Rico I just got the battery replaced :) After I had a diving accident and broke an ear drum, I didn't care anymore about the seals and just had the battery replaced whenever needed.
Fast forward to 2020. I brought the rather worn watch to a watchmaker to have it "serviced". He replaced the seals and the battery and tested the watch to 20bar. I paid 58 Euro for, well worth it for a 38 year old battle scratched watch with lots of memories. And it is still as accurate as it was in April 1982 when I bought it.
Finally someone who makes sense in all this online watch fluff.
Thank you!
Great video. God knows why I've only just found your channel, but I'm glad I have. Cheers.
Thank you!
Haha, I like to watch watch related content.
OK!
You found it 1 year before me.
I have a current work collegue who owns a Rolex Explorer, and she has worn it everyday of the last 10 years owning it. Well it started losing time just recently (like 15 - 20 secs per day) and she was quoted Aust $1,000 ( by Rolex) to service / repair the time piece. She did NOT choose the replace the dial or hand set.
Good move!
very sensible video, my panerai lost some money since i buy but after seeing your video i am so satisfied and really don't care what it worth now,i worked hard and safe money to buy that watch and love it every single time I see my wrist when its on.
Thanks for watching.
All good points. Let the servicejunkies have their fix.
someone need to keep the economy going!
Some valid points in your video.
Titanium is practical but most of the time it doesn't look great IMHO and I write this as I wear my solar Citizen high grade titanium watch on rubber strap. I can barely feel it. It's convenient for the gym. You don't want to take your luxury piece and knock it against machines and weights. So no Rolex at the gym for me.
When you buy a luxury watch, you appreciate the sheen of the nicely brushed or polished case in steel or precious metal. It's like jewelry and the heft is part of the enjoyment. If it's heavy it feels good, within reason. If it's lightweight it feels flimsy, it's totally subjective and down to personal taste but most wearers still associate weight with quality.
Rolex has greater resale value than most other brands including Grand Seiko, that's a fact. So if you don't want it anymore, you'll recoup a higher percentage of your expense. You'll even make some cash if the model is popular and in demand. That doesn't make it an investment but it's a nice bonus on top of wearing a watch you've liked and have been enjoying. It should never be the reason for buying a watch thiugh IMHO.
The special alloy of titanium that Grand Seiko uses is really difficult to see the difference between stainless steel as far as appearance goes. It really looks good. As far as quality feel on the wrist both my Grand Seiko watches feel and look great on the wrist. They are solid. By the way I wouldn't think twice about wearing my watches in the gym and anywhere else. I bought them to use them. So far the super hard titanium that Grand Seiko uses is holding up great!
Not to offend! But several key points in your videos have much to do with your eyesight. I have a Snowflake and also a couple stainless steel GS. The sharpness of finishing and lustre on the SS models is notably superior to my eyes than on the titanium. The Snowy was my first GS. All after that, I chose stainless steel. The finer qualities of GS finishing is still important to me :)
It makes a lot of sense!! perfectly explained!! Totally agreed.
Thanks! www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
Just FYI- My 2008 Day-Date stopped. It had a broken mainspring. My local independent Rolex shop does a full service for $495 (total) for a Day-Date. It includes any new original Rolex internal parts if needed, main springs, pallet forks, Etc. They promise to get it done in a week. The son does the polishing and the dad does the disassembling, cleaning, and repairs. Comes with a 2-year warranty. There is no extra charge for internal parts, and they keep it in their shop and don't send it out. I didn't want to send it out for fear of package theft.
Good info. I hope they don't over polish it. If it were me I would skip the polishing.
My great grandfather was a master watch builder, GM of Hamilton watch company in Lancaster PA. I found a watch with 21 jewels that he made in 1935. I found it in 2006 cranked it 10 times and it came to life and checked the minute hand, SPOT ON. I think service of a working watch, is a waste of money. I have 3 daydates, 2 I bought new and one I inherited. Only time I brought them for service was if something was wrong. They will last 3 lifetimes. Good advice. Those are not scratches, they are life marks. They are earned
Well said! www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
Amen Brother !!!! I just think the Grand Seiko is Absolutely Beautifully Made. Period !!!! They aren't playing stock games with their watches like Rolex. Rolex like most companies has become greedy. Honestly they just don't impress me with the looks. Grand Seiko is a much better looking watch and in my opinion a Better Quality for the money !!!!
Yep, the folks at Grand Seiko are serious about watchmaking!
Had my Rolex serviced for the first time last year after 4 years of ownership. The service was $600.00 for the basic mechanical service, 180.00 for a new crystal, 135.00 for a new crown and 57.00 for shipping, for a total of $972.00. I wear my watch and honestly it was looking pretty rough cosmetically, though still keeping good time. When the watch came back from servicing it looked as it did when new. In four or five years when it's scuffed and scratched, I'll send it in again. I made the decision to purchase the watch, I believe I'm qualified to decide if and when it needs to be serviced. I also routinely service my cars, bikes, firearms and photo equipment. It's a personal choice, though I understand that your experience may be different.
My concern would be all that polishing. By the way I only have my camera gear serviced when it gives trouble as well. For example when I dropped my Nikon D700 with my 24-70 lens in a creek it went in for a $700 service/repair : ( As far as vehicles go that's a different story. I keep all the fluids clean in all my vehicles. Not necessary with watches. For example if you had waited 15 years to have your service done the cost would be the same. Not so with a car. The car would need major repairs.
CraigShipp.com I certainly appreciate your point , but given the amount of damage I was able to inflict in four short years, I'm not sure the watch would be wearable after 15. I'm definitely of the "if you own it, use it" school of thought. Enjoyed your video, have a great day!
Jeff Piper maybe you need the super hard titanium that Grand Seiko uses!
As I have been a watch repairer and maker for over sixty years I appreciate good engineering when I see it. And I must say that Rolex watches are superb watches but are well over priced when it comes to value for money, and as far as servicing cost it is a complete ripoff, but there again a fool and his money are soon parted. I must say that I agree with 95% of what you say in your video.
Thank you!
Sixty years,thats some serious shit right there..! :O)
Yep!
The thing is that Rolex don’t devalue like other brands and they’re a good investment. You are also buying into a prestigious brand unlike Seiko. Sorry but I don’t agree with the ‘fool and his money’ statement
@@richardzx9 Watches should not be considered investments. Thinking like that is what keeps people broke. www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
So far, best video on watches. Couldn't agree more !
Absolutely agree the fact that routine servicing is unnecessary. I have never had any of my 9 watches serviced since 1960s, and all work perfectly.
Wow!
You are so right about that. Don't fix it if not broken.
And invest the money instead!
Here in Germany it's the same with cars. You see Youngsters who work minimum wage drive Mercedes C63 AMG etc. But if you take a look behind the scenes, they are in debt for decades for that while their whole 7 People family lives in a three room appartement trying to make ends meet.
I hear you - www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
AFCA - World Bodybuilding Archive ...Syrians
I only service mine after more than 10 yrs, and only if their accuracy is out of their caliber original tolerance
Yep, keep you $$ in your pocket!
I read there are Rolexes out there that are outside the -/+2 seconds Superlative Chronometer tolerance out the gate.
@@porschephile2k3 There will always be products that don't perform to spec
Lots of wisdom spoken in this video,enjoyed listening!
Thanks!
Down-to-earth advice on watch servicing, very refreshing. Thanks for the video!
You're welcome!
This guy is like my angry grandpa getting a little wasted and then ranting about his wristwatches. Loved it, 10/10. Also great information from an obviously experienced collector.
Dom Gonzalez I’m more of a user than a collector. Great watches are made to be used!
Excellent discussion, several good points made...
Thank you!
Intresting viewpoint on service. And also agree on don't buy a luxury watch with borrowed money.
But sir, please consider your shirt patttern next time.
Also that GS with the blue dial is just plain awesome.
Yes, the UA-cam compression is an issue. This time it was really bad. Also, for those with low bandwidth it's really bad.
I have three Rolexs Every time when I buy from dealership he says serving Between 5-6 years as an Attention I smile and i told him you You will not see my face until the watch stops :)
How long have they been running so far?
They all work and accurate the oldest one since 2001 never serviced then the other 2011 and the last 2016 all never touch service
But I like the watches and I love switching a lot between my watches
You can feel the closeness of the service more years feel the crown becomes heavier simple feel when you adjust time or when you winding and that simple feel Over the years will increasing more and more until hardened
Good info!
I think the Rolex Ladies 31mm and 26mm watches are more sensitive and need a service faster than the larger sizes. My experience tow time is the same with my wife's 31mm Stopped and the crown frozen After seven to eight years I think the reason is that they do not always wear and often in the box and I think this is the cause of the lubrication no part need and my mother's 26mm It was an emergency cause ,i did not known, but there was the sound of the Rotor iThink fell from the niche The cost was almost the same and since that time I knew the plan with the service
Good info.
Great video. Subscribed. You touched on a lot of things I agree with. First, if it’s keeping good time, it doesn’t need a service. Second, if you can’t pay cash, you can’t afford it. Third, wear your watch. People getting bent about hairline scratches on their watch - you can’t take it with you, use it or sell it.
Well said!
You speak truth, and your not afraid to speak it. I like that
Thank you! www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
Craig you speak the truth! Well done.
thank you!
My 2005 Seiko Spring Drive purchased in 2005 and it never needs service. Its accuracy is dead on with the Radio Controlled Clock for weeks. The Spring Drive only needs time correction at Daylight Saving Time change. I take shower with the watch on my wrist.
Yep!
Actually on wrist it feels great. They have other non-diver models that are more trim.
Not really. The Spring Drive is not any more expensive to service than a Rolex for example.
You may want to reconsider showering with your watch on. The seals are not meant to resist heat and moisture.
By all accounts Grand Seiko watches are reliable so service is not an issue.
Thank you for posting. This is the video I needed to watch. It's a good reality check!
Just wonderful to hear his truly realistic and sensible views. So welcome!
Thank you for watching! Also check out: www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
When I took my watch to a watchmaker, who is in the business for many years and his shop was previously run by his father and grandfather. He told me that the mechanical watch should only be bought if it breaks or gets water damaged otherwise it will work perfectly for years.
Correct! www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
What about when it needs to be regulated?
@@RenoLaringo that can be decades.
I completely agree with you sir.
Thank you!
Craig. around the 8 to 9min mark discussion; i think generally titanium despite tougher , is not more scratch resistant compare to watch grade steel. however, you need to say clearly you are referring to grand seiko special Titanium ( probably with Diashield Coating) or some special higher grade titanium like super titanium of citizen or other brands...
Actually the titanium that Grand Seiko uses is a special alloy that's harder and more scratch resistant than stainless steel. The watches like the Shogun use coatings that are harder still but the downside is if they get scratched they can't be refinished easily. Learn more at: www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
Dettol surface wipes for cleaning my watch (really good for dirt), with a soft cloth for polishing after.
My first watch, a Caravelle, was bought for me by mum and dad in 1961. It has never been serviced and still runs in 2021. For 40 years I never wore it as it languished in a draw but it’s still good.
I bought a second hand seiko vintage with 6309 movement. Movement was already working. Now serviced after 45 years. Just one part replaced and that is backcase gasket.
Interesting.
How many people can afford a Rolex with a week’s salary? I guess I’ll have to keep my G-shock for quite a while!
Actually a lot of people!
First time viewer, although a tad long I enjoyed it immensely! I will subscribe now. You made perfect sense, everything was spot on in my opinion and I am NOT a knowledgeable as you are by far but I do like watches and weapons. I will never be able to purchase a Rolex but I really would if I could. Datjust36 would be my choice in all white dial with stick hands, lumped of course, lol.. Nice video, continue please.
Thank you! The DATEJUST 36 is a lot of watch for the money. They can be bought used for about $2,500 in good shape. Look around!
I've worn my Rolex Sub virtually everyday for 18 years. No problems. Sure it's gotten a few scratches. I do wear it during water sports. I've rafted every river in the Colorado river system including the Grand Canyon and Cataract Canyon. It works fine. Some of the southwest rivers are essentially mud flows. I won't take it in for servicing until the day something goes wrong. I paid $3600 for it and I could probably get around $5K for it now. But I don't care about the value if I sold it. It gives me value as a watch that won't break and can be worn with a tux or swim trunks.
Well said!
I’m at 14 years w a sub, flawless performance and I never remove it. Work on my diesel truck wearing it. I previously worked on and around steel ladders and hit the watch multiple times. The heavier mass mentioned in the video is nonsense. Lighter weight watches just feel cheap, I’d be happy with a DSSD. I seriously doubt that beast is gonna bust easily because it’s “heavy”
The exception is the titanium alloy that Grand Seiko uses. It's harder than the stainless steel of the sub. Really tough stuff. Doesn't feel cheap in any way.
+mattcolver1 People like you are the reason why I hate buying used watches and cars...
My 2004 Prius looks and runs great and I bought it new!
Totally agree with pretty much everything you mention if not all. Only service a watch if it's necessary with cases as accuracy, stop working or water seal broke.. etc.. Also it's true buy a watch you like to wear for a long time, it's not an investment. By the time you want a Rolex modern model update after 20 years you still need to put a pile of cash to do so for the upgrade!! Unless you have a vintage Daytona or other hot watches, they're vey wanted!
Well said!
Ive recently bought a expolorer 2 from 97'. Its been in service twice, and unfortunately it had replacements of both dial and hands the in the first service. Second time service 2021.
Thanks to your channel and your knowledge, Im not going to have it serviced for atleast 15 years from now.
Great content💯
Thanks for watching! www.craigshipp.com/Bitcoin
Exactly. You touched on all the points I believe as well. It's not like a quality watch is just going to completely implode under normal wear conditions, or sitting in a nice dry watch box for years. As long as you take reasonable care of it, you really only need to service a watch if there's a PROBLEM WITH IT.
Yep!
A fine discussion.
thanks!
It is indeed a tool and I do treat it that way. The tool I like! Great video! Spring drive is somewhere on my buy list.
Smart!
You are totally right, the biggest misconception, is aggressive salesman like to say your watch is like your car it needs service every few years, I’m talking automatic of course, once you start it’s game over for the piece, they will never get it to run right again it will always need service, the money game or business....
Yep, if it's running well don't open the case!
My 1997 Bond Omega Seamaster still working well and keep good time since I bought it 21 years ago and I have not send it for services since. Totally agreed with u sir...no need to send for services unless something wrong with it...cheers.
Well i’m 20 and bought a 18038 and 116234.
No its not a real investment but it’s a lot of fun
They sure are. I bought my first DAY-DATE when I was 20 as well! I paid about $2,000 and at the time that was about one week's pay.
The reason you service a watch is because the lubricant runs out,
Pats start wearing away, metal on metal, not good
How often do you "service" a watch? Do the numbers. If you service, for example, every five years you will spend a lot of $$ that you could instead invest. Money invested should double every 7 years. Can you see how far behind you end up spending money on servicing? Save your money!
@@MidAtlanticTV buy a $20 timex and put 5k elsewhere - save your money!
@@roundingcorners Not a bad move! Especially if you're broke. www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
Titanium is softer than steel. But because of the Diashield surface hardening treatment of the titanium, it becomes scratchresistent
Not on the Grand Seiko. GS uses a special allow without coating. It's hard stuff. Learn more at: www.craigshipp.com/grandseiko
Titanium scratches more in my experience
I’ve had a titanium grand seiko
TheEwanMC This all means bollocks as the watch scratches a lot at the end of the day !
TheEwanMC Sinn’s ”tegiment” hardening technology makes stainless steel go scratch resistant up to 1200 vickers...
Cedar Canoe, douche canoe.
Agree with the point that "if not broken, don't fix it". but about babysitting a watch I understand the reason and how they feel. some people have OCD issue (like me), but I think scratches gives a watch identity, a charisma. But for people with OCD, they would feel so uncomfortable and annoyed at first when their watch accidentally scratched.
Great points. I have a Seiko automatic that hit the tile floor so hard it dented the case and years later the watch still runs fine. Why would I have it serviced? For what?
YEP!