Alternative to the AP… How did you miss the Casi-Oak. Surely a true alternative, God tier, indestructible and you can wear it and not live with the fear of being mugged.
I like how you didn’t just offer up the Casioak or the Tissot but instead threw out Zenith. I love G-Shock but man, Zenith is such a great choice and the event if they’d never engineered the El Primero, Zenith would still be nothing to sneeze at. Well done!
Let's show these watches that worth thousands of dollars, but can't get a color printer for the watch pics lmao absolutely killing it, can't wait for the next episode!
I’m a Reverso owner and I certainly see a Tank in my future, however 100% agree with Andrew that the defining feature of the Reverso is the ability to move and play with the watch. I think someone who enjoys the aesthetics of one watch would likely appreciate the other, but they feel, interact, and express themselves differently. Even if we look at the history, the Reverso was a sports watch, and I’m excited to pair my steel Reverso daily-wear with a gold Tank as my dress watch.
I have a tank must xl and I love it, and I want to add the blue dial tribute Reverso to my collection. I just can’t decide on the Reverso or the JLC Geographic sector dial as my next watch.
I can't believe no one brought the Oris Big Crown Pro Pilot as an alternative to the IWC! A navitimer?! I absolutely love you guys and how sensible and accurate any one of you can be followed by being so wildly off the mark. Best watch content out there
Ahhhh thanks Rich. It’s really great to get feedback and these Troyes of comments fuel the fire for the future. Hope your Sunday is playing out nicely Rich.
I think the conversation may have benefited from a slightly different take on what an alternative is. I think you have looked at alternatives as, if you want this, then this is the next best version. This is more of a substitute than an alternative. The truth is, a substitute is never going to replace the real thing which is where the struggle stemmed from. If you looked at something that filled a similar purpose that could stand on its own two feet it would have potentially felt less futile and opened up the possibilities for different watches.
4:04 I love the lugs on there, particularly how they actually curve with the wrist. That's so nice. Most watches have some curve but ultimately end at the same height as the caseback. For most people this probably makes sense, but I have pretty small wrists so something that curves a bit more can be helpful.
I am Spanish and live in Alicante and there is a very talented watch maker who is technically Spanish. Although he was born in Switzerland, Raúl Pagès was born from Spanish parents and has Spanish nationality. He’s an incredible watch maker!
I watch this channel when I get back from our Sunday drinking club from the local Wetherspoons. Half the time I’m nodding off but I do enjoy the banter….keep up the good work gents 👍
It was really fun to watch the three of you struggle with alternatives! Props to Andrew for keeping everyone honest! Thanks again for doing this guys! Made my day!
Love that vintage IWC Ingenieur. I wish IWC would bring them back again in smaller case sizes. Another great alternative to Nautilus would be Czapek Antarctique.
Loving my Tissot PRX PowerMatic 80 as an accessible alternative to an AP RoyalOak. With provenance. Improved from the original and ridiculous value....
Damn really loved this episode! Well all episodes! The chemistry between you 3 make this such an easy watch/listen. Great alternatives to the picks and always love to see the debate. I would have even chosen the Alpine Eagle as an alternative to the Royal Oak or Nautilus. As far as the Monaco, completely agree as it is a piece that is all on its own. Most definitely chuckled out loud when Adrian was bashing the Zenith saying “it’s like having a date window that changes every 4 hours” 😂😂
Wow, this was difficult. And it's been interesting to see you guys struggle finding alternatives for some of the watches, but I totally agree that in some of these cases it's nearly impossible. The first episode was a seek for alternatives for well known and well respected icons I'd say, while this one has bee n much more controversial. But even more interesting. Well, here are my thoughts for this round. IWC Big Pilot: the thing is that I'm still looking for a pilot's watch to lust for. I like the design, I usually don't like the sizes, as I have a small wrist but I completely understand that these watches had a purpose and were made large. Yes, there are many modern pilot's watches with smaller diameters and I could go for some of those from Laco, Stowa, or elsewhere. But what I'm looking for is a classic pilot's watch design with some interesting twist and I haven't found that one. Well, I actually did, but the watch doesnt exist: a smaller local watch dealer here in Prague was celebrating 12 years of existence, so they made a smaller 39mm pilot's watch with a bronze case, a B-type dial, with the number 12 in red. And a red seconds hand. And heck, that's the most interesting take on a traditional flieger I've ever seen and I really considered buying these, at about 600 euros these were fun pieces. But the problem is that I've seen a render of one of the ideas they worked with and it was the type A dial with red numbers 1 and 2 (so it formed that 12) and that red seconds hand. And I feel like that was so much better. That slight asymetry in the design has transformed a traditional watch type into an unusual sight and I really like it. So in my dreams, I'd go with that concept. Or I just might do a mod like that, sorry for stealing the idea guys... But if we need an existing watch, then that limited edition celebrating 12 years of the dealer would do. AP: Well, this was pretty easy for me, but anyway, it turned out to be a dilema. So, my first thought was a Tissot PRX, the smaller 35mm version. It's surprisign how many integrated bracelet watches were concieved in the 70s, while those legends designed by Genta were struggling for success. The quartz era helped to shape that I think, as it was much easier to do a decent integrated style watch with quartz than mechanical movement. And the original Tissot that the PRX brings back was a good example. But is it an alternative to the AP? Well, for me, sure. I own one, while I don't have the AP. But even in my head it's not the ultimate one. Because I really long for Czapek Antarctique S. It wears great on my wrist and even my wife likes it, so it may get a nod one day. Hard to get too, but not that hard as the AP. So although I generally like affordable alternativest, I'd go with the Czapek. Hublot: I actually really like the basic Hublot case shape. Maybe it's well inspired by other legendary watches, but I think it just works. I like it so much that I actually bought the original Hublot Service Watch - it's a really bad quartz watch that probably cost like 5 dollars to make, but it has that shape and is a fun thing. Other thing I like Hublot for is experimenting with materials. And the watch questioned here is also technically sound, so it's not easy. But I'd go for a Bulgari Octo Finissimo Skeleton Chronograph. It is so unusual, the case nothing like anything else, the tech also amazing... Such a cool watch with flex potential close to Hublot. Cartier Tank: no George, not the Reverso... This time, I'd go affordable and grab a Lorier Zephyr - a sweet microbrand, this being their new release with a nice vintage inspiration, cool small size and a wonderful option with a red dial. So cool. RM: I really respect RM for what he does for horology, how high-tech approach he has to watches. It's unique and I think it really has no alternative So I agree here with Hublot being a sound alternative, especially with some of their pieces with unique materials used on the case or dials. I might as well consider any ugly skeletonized watch as an alternative but that's a huge insult. But when I confessed I like the Hublot case shape, I must say I don't like the RM case design and I don't like skeletonized watches much. Luckily, RM has an alternative for me, the RM-UP-01 - that has the tech, the futursistic approach and a design I actually like. Not much of an alternative, right? Who cares... Monaco: I love the Monaco but for my tiny wrist the watch is just a tiny bit larger than I'd like to. So i must seek elswhere and there are really very few good square-ish designs with iconic potential. But I have two in my mind. One is Nomos Tetra, a simple Bauhaus style watch in various sizes that just wears great. I bought one for my wife and it looks great on my wrist too. A lovely piece. But let's go an affordable chronograph alternative here: Brew Metric - while a blend of many known shapes, the watch is really unique in whole and brings a lot of fun and joy to the table. Nautilus: well, here, I was actually considering the Bell&Ross, the BR05. It's an integrated design, taking inspiration from many, but also distinct enough, for me. And I was surprised how this watch wears, many of the square-is and integrated bracelet watches were so large on my wrist, but this one wears great. But in the end I must agree with a choice of the Moser here. I's such a different take on the well-known topic, it's so great, wow. Only, I just have realized one thing... That all of the choices above were unnecessary. Because this time, there's really one universal answer as an alternative to all of those watches. It's the Santos de Cartier. How on earth could that be an alternative to the IWC? Well, Santos was the first pilot's watch in fact, so this continuation can be an alternative to the more modern pilot's watches, right? AP and Nautilus? The Santos de Cartier has almost an integrated bracelet design and it has an iconic and well recognizable shape, so there it is, at least for me. Hublot and RM? Well, this is a bit of a stretch but you can get these in versions that are also a big flex, either in gold or also skeletonized and some larger sizes... So there you go. Monaco - well, you said it... The Cartier is almost square... There you have it.
One thing I love is you guys bringing new brands to us viewers like HYT and Urban Jürgensen. Also love that you guys have so many watches in the studio, so much better than just seeing a few photos.
Great to see Vertex getting some mention. Would love to hear more about them as a brand. I had an M100A and an MP45 Heritage on loan and they were so well made. At their pricepoint you will find it difficult to find anything else quite so well made, with the scarcity and uniqueness of design. The signature 3D Superluminova is a really beautiful and practical USP too.
If you like the Cartier Tank and you want an alternative, then I recommend looking at the Lorier Zephyr - an Art Deco dial, tonneau case automatic watch. Serious bang per buck & looks great - I own both a Cartier Tank Must & a Zephyr.
The best Spanish watch brand so far I’ve seen is by Atelier de Chronometrie. They are based in Barcelona and for me still an underrated independent watchmaker.
Agree with Andrew I’d rock the Tank Solarbeat as a daily driver and keep the Reverso Tribute as a dress watch…..orrrr have a Reverso classic on leather strap as a casual watch and have an Americane as my dress watch. You can have a place for both in the same collection
For the IWC Big Pilot, the Alpina Startimer Automatic Pilot is a great choice. I’ve had one for a couple of years, and it scratches the pilot watch itch. And you can find them for sub $800 all the time.
I believe that the Tag Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 could be the alternative for PP Nautilus. Its border pattern dial clearly respects the Nautilus and still offered in super accessible price point.
Great show! Some of the suggested alternatives I’d pick over the icon itself! For the Big Pilot, I think the actual alternative is to be a lightly used or unworn one on the secondary market for nearly 50% off from retail. But otherwise, the Kahaki Field Auto shown is mega
Now that’s a pretty great idea. And I agree it is a strange one cause you have to say what’s an equivalent in the same price bracket. Or what’s an equiv with the same case shape. Etc. but the price point factor is a good one for the future. Cheers for the comment.
Big Pilot Alternative: I think Farer makes excellent looking watches as an alternative to the Big Pilot! Cayley Verde, Cayley Azul, Bradfield all have a BP vibe to it, especially with their onion crown. Longines AlSpirit is also a good alternate too. Royal Oak Alternative: as others stated, I think the CasiOak, whether in normal resin, full metal, or a mod would be the most budget alternative. I think the GP Laureato is a the best luxury alternative, and one I find cooler than both the Royal Oak and Nautilus. Very stoked the Laureato was chosen!! If I had the money and wanted a high end luxury integrated bracelet sports watch, it'd be the new 38mm copper dial Laureato. That watch is so killer. I was writing up Laureato before Andrew said it, so i was stoked to hear it. Also with others on PRX too. Big Bang Alternative: Saving your money Tank Alternative: Longines DolceVita is my same exact thought. Andrew going 2 for 2 with the Laureato and the DolceVita! Again, was writing up Longines DolceVita right before Andrew said it! I also do believe there is a Seiko Tank too. RM Alternative: Buying a house, or 3 Monaco Alternative: Brew Retrograch-Technicolor is the meca-quartz alternative. Nautilus: Same as my/Andrews RO alternative and exactly the same as Adrian, that 38mm copper dial Laureato.
Streamliner was the one choice that made me really happy this episode. Now I'm air-guitaring when the outro starts. Great moment to share as usual gentlemen. Thanks to all of you and the crew.
I agree with Adrian, it would be more exciting to see a full size seconds hand on the zenith, at the same speed so it runs like the Defy Chrono with 1/100
Regarding the Reverso vs Tank. I was in multiple shops, comparing various Tanks to various types of Reversos. While I legitimately like both, the Cartier Tank always gave me a warm fuzzy feeling, and the Reverso had to be justified. Despite wonderful sales representatives best efforts, I ended up with a medium Tank Americaine on my wrist. While a Reverso Duo still makes me wonder sometimes, I remember I went back to a Tank Must quartz over the Reverso Duo....
BTW - Thanks to your show a few episodes ago, I learned about Blok watches. I purchased 3 for my oldest of 9 grandkids. So far two have opened them and LOVE them. They are legit!
Hey Guys, love the BYOI section as always. Riddle me this, am I the only one missing the Seiko love or are we getting a huge chunk in the future? Cheers
The Skyline is super beautiful and while I wouldn't argue the 10 second sub-dial on the basis of function or aesthetics, I would argue on the basis of feeling; looking at a 10 second sub-dial ramps up my anxiety to 11! I would look at that dial and seeing that movement would give me nervous sweats and constitute a blood sugar drop combined with a panic attack, LOL!
Dead on about some of these not having alternatives because they are icons. The Monaco and this might be a stretch but the shinola Mackinac could be a good alternative. Same case shape and with ties to sailing which obviously is another form of racing.
The shape is bang on with that Shinola. I had not seen this one. Looks like someone took there Monaco and had a date with a spray gun. Wow. Super yellow and attention grabbing.
Adrain, I think the Tank and Reverso are different enough. But! For most collectors their isn’t room in the collection for both. Gotta pick one or the other.
My alternatives are; IWC: Oris Big Crown Cal 401. AP Royal Oak: Chopard Alpine Eagle. Hublot: Horage Supersede/Bvlgari Diagono Magnesium. Cartier Tank: Glashutte Original Karree. RM: not a single idea. Patek Nautilus: Atelier Wen Perception/Credor Pacifique GCBR991
The alpine eagle hands down should be the alt contender for the Royal oak. Man that’s a watch that keeps screaming out to me every time I look at it or shoot it. Bloody great watchmaking indeed.
Great channel and interesting development from your existing work. I watch and enjoy both. A subject for a future talk “Living with your watch” How easy is it to live with one brand versus another. I have a Datejust in for service with Rolex UK. It needs a new bracelet. They’ve had the watch 7 months saying it’ll be in soon. I’ve just had a date in March 2023 which would be nearly 1 year for a service. I’ve asked them to return the watch, no reply as yet. I hopefully will be on your website buying a leather strap in the New Year. Do you think its common to have problems running watches.
**This is a bit difficult to listen to on Spotify FYI. There is a lot of "this watch" etc. without any descriptors. Getting there though, keep it up!**
Guys, keep doing your thing....great show again. I have a question, your chemistry works brilliantly so which one of u is Clarkson, which one is May and who's Hamond? A breath of fresh air to the watch community. Thanks guys 🇬🇧🇦🇺
Love the genuine watch opinion friendly disagreements😂. It’s genuine preference and taste differences. It works in this show amd already shows the watch game is all about personal preferences and who can influence the most! Who can articulate the ideas whether you are pushing “purpose” or “aesthetics”! Watch collecting is all about emotional attachment! 😂👍👍
The truest statement from GB this time: Moser Streamliner is the modern alternative for the Nautilus! Spot on! It's is just gorgeous, The Perfect Watch imho!
The IWC Big Pilot is a descendant of WWII Observation watches worn by German navigators onboard bombers. IWC follows the form of the earlier and less common A version of the dial. The pilots wore chronographs, you’ve seen the equally iconic Hanhart and Tutima chronographs. I believe they were manufactured by others too. Those were probably around 38mm. They were hacked and set to navigator’s B-Uhr. Look at the W10 used by the British military in the sixties and seventies, they were small by today’s standards. The chronographs issued at the time were under 40mm.
Navitimer is a classic. trends come and go. Wether it fits your style or not, there is no denying it is an iconic pilot watch. When I was alot younger I wanted one. I admit that it’s not as high on my list these days; however, I wouldn’t kick it out of bed. I admit am a little biased. I wear a vintage breitling that was given to me by my mom; Thus, breitling has a soft place in my heart. I love mine. I will admit the iwc is classier The Cartier tank is not only beautiful, it is a joy to wear. That being said …I really want a reverso :) RM are at least fun to look at. Hublot not so much. I enjoy listening to your points of view. Snoopy ROCKS
We need an episode dedicated to driving watches. I'd love to see you guys discuss the details, and history of some of the watch worlds most iconic items.
I agree with George. I don't know why anyone would buy a Tank when the Reverso exists. Also, Adrian's alternative to the RM is super lame. The Ulysse Nardin Freak is a much better alternative.
Many items are moving from an ownership to a leasing model. I probably like many have a collection of watches that get less and less wrist time the more I buy. There are definitely some watches that will,always have sentimental reasons to be keepers and none of my watches have investment potential. Is there scope for some sort of watch subscription model. Be interested in any views.
One of the important events that you can use a zenith defy chronograph is in a race. That way, it would give you the absolute value in milli seconds when the contenders are so close that it happens in a split second. And what prides zenith is that they were one of the few that could achieve that with a great precision. With an in house automatic movement (where they literally have to DEFY the other forces such as gravity, which is easily done on a quartz).
I do own the Navitimer and for me it’s just a beautiful watch. Is it complex and a bit overloaded? Yes maybe - but that makes it special from my point of view. So for me it’s a beauty and beauty never gets dated ✌🏻
The great same banter, different perspectives, it's just like my mates and I round a table talking watches! Great show everyone ♥I have to say though, out of you 3, Andrew is more truer to the brief on alternatives picked this round!
I think when proper modern alternatives are hard to be found, vintage could be good way to, especially when we think about value for money and consider tones of unknown/neglected gems across different decades.
First comparison in and 2/3 already failed. George and Captain boring bring a field watch to a fleiger fight. Come oooooooon EDIT: Okay, Adrian has restored confidence. Hublot Big Bang as a RM alternative is MASTERFUL. When I see Hublot Big Bang, I think exactly as Adrian said, its to flaunt that "I can". For the Tag Heuer, could I be a bit left field and suggest a Sinn 144 (or the OG Porsche Design if breaking the rules). Racing chrono, iconic design.
Alternative to the AP? Omega Constellation 39mm with steel bezel. Integrated bracelet, history, brand prestige, build quality and available. I’d take one (I own one) over an AP any day
How about an episode you call it the B-side, where you search into mainstream manufacturers website like JLC, Vacheron Constantine, Omega..etc and go through their collection and find hidden gems things that are off the main media, and expose it to us.
Monaco: what about the Breitling Top time range, look at the Deus for example? Let go of the aesthetics - yes it's not square but here you have a 60s inspired racing design, square subdials, bold pops of colour... its an alternative, it doesn't have to match the original icon. It's a chrono, a bicompax one too, and the brand has respect and heritage in buckets.
I’m surprised the Bremont Supernova wasn’t brought up as an AP Royal Oak alternative. I know the bracelet design is almost to close to the ap’s but the head of the watch is very different.
Alternative to the AP… How did you miss the Casi-Oak. Surely a true alternative, God tier, indestructible and you can wear it and not live with the fear of being mugged.
Or the PRX
Hmmmmmm well it’s perhaps the most significant affordable and gettable alternative to a Royal oak that’s for certain.
45:11 green loser😂
I'd say the casioak is more of an Offshore alternative
I like how you didn’t just offer up the Casioak or the Tissot but instead threw out Zenith. I love G-Shock but man, Zenith is such a great choice and the event if they’d never engineered the El Primero, Zenith would still be nothing to sneeze at. Well done!
Let's show these watches that worth thousands of dollars, but can't get a color printer for the watch pics lmao absolutely killing it, can't wait for the next episode!
I’m a Reverso owner and I certainly see a Tank in my future, however 100% agree with Andrew that the defining feature of the Reverso is the ability to move and play with the watch. I think someone who enjoys the aesthetics of one watch would likely appreciate the other, but they feel, interact, and express themselves differently. Even if we look at the history, the Reverso was a sports watch, and I’m excited to pair my steel Reverso daily-wear with a gold Tank as my dress watch.
👏🏻
I had the rose gold tribute annual calendar for several years; just recently upgraded that into an A Lange 1 with moonphase.
I have 2 reverso’s and a tank, I love both designs, they’re both great in a collection.
I have a tank must xl and I love it, and I want to add the blue dial tribute Reverso to my collection. I just can’t decide on the Reverso or the JLC Geographic sector dial as my next watch.
I can't believe no one brought the Oris Big Crown Pro Pilot as an alternative to the IWC! A navitimer?! I absolutely love you guys and how sensible and accurate any one of you can be followed by being so wildly off the mark. Best watch content out there
You guys are getting better with every episode.
Ahhhh thanks Rich. It’s really great to get feedback and these Troyes of comments fuel the fire for the future. Hope your Sunday is playing out nicely Rich.
I think the conversation may have benefited from a slightly different take on what an alternative is.
I think you have looked at alternatives as, if you want this, then this is the next best version. This is more of a substitute than an alternative. The truth is, a substitute is never going to replace the real thing which is where the struggle stemmed from.
If you looked at something that filled a similar purpose that could stand on its own two feet it would have potentially felt less futile and opened up the possibilities for different watches.
We all came at this topic from such different places
4:04 I love the lugs on there, particularly how they actually curve with the wrist. That's so nice. Most watches have some curve but ultimately end at the same height as the caseback. For most people this probably makes sense, but I have pretty small wrists so something that curves a bit more can be helpful.
I am Spanish and live in Alicante and there is a very talented watch maker who is technically Spanish. Although he was born in Switzerland, Raúl Pagès was born from Spanish parents and has Spanish nationality. He’s an incredible watch maker!
amazing thank you!
Living in Beaumaris? North Wales Beaumaris?
I watch this channel when I get back from our Sunday drinking club from the local Wetherspoons. Half the time I’m nodding off but I do enjoy the banter….keep up the good work gents 👍
It was really fun to watch the three of you struggle with alternatives! Props to Andrew for keeping everyone honest! Thanks again for doing this guys! Made my day!
28:50 Dude from Latvia here. Cheers guys! Love all your channels.
Yesssssss and are we the number one watch podcast in Latvia? Hopefully fingers crossed. Thanks for watching WorldOfR
@@marcusflack1523 this one of course! :D
Dude!
@@Timeandtidewatches Sup Andrew
Love that vintage IWC Ingenieur. I wish IWC would bring them back again in smaller case sizes. Another great alternative to Nautilus would be Czapek Antarctique.
Loving my Tissot PRX PowerMatic 80 as an accessible alternative to an AP RoyalOak. With provenance. Improved from the original and ridiculous value....
Such a heater choice. Yes it’s a dam fine watch. On the screen but even better in the metal.
It is great value for sure. Enjoy :)
Damn really loved this episode! Well all episodes! The chemistry between you 3 make this such an easy watch/listen. Great alternatives to the picks and always love to see the debate. I would have even chosen the Alpine Eagle as an alternative to the Royal Oak or Nautilus. As far as the Monaco, completely agree as it is a piece that is all on its own.
Most definitely chuckled out loud when Adrian was bashing the Zenith saying “it’s like having a date window that changes every 4 hours” 😂😂
Alpine Eagle was hiding in plain sight! Thanks for the thorough review, we dig your work too TPL 🙌
@@AboutEffingTime It’s my pleasure and thank you! 🙏🏽🙏🏽
Wow, this was difficult. And it's been interesting to see you guys struggle finding alternatives for some of the watches, but I totally agree that in some of these cases it's nearly impossible. The first episode was a seek for alternatives for well known and well respected icons I'd say, while this one has bee n much more controversial. But even more interesting. Well, here are my thoughts for this round.
IWC Big Pilot: the thing is that I'm still looking for a pilot's watch to lust for. I like the design, I usually don't like the sizes, as I have a small wrist but I completely understand that these watches had a purpose and were made large. Yes, there are many modern pilot's watches with smaller diameters and I could go for some of those from Laco, Stowa, or elsewhere. But what I'm looking for is a classic pilot's watch design with some interesting twist and I haven't found that one. Well, I actually did, but the watch doesnt exist: a smaller local watch dealer here in Prague was celebrating 12 years of existence, so they made a smaller 39mm pilot's watch with a bronze case, a B-type dial, with the number 12 in red. And a red seconds hand. And heck, that's the most interesting take on a traditional flieger I've ever seen and I really considered buying these, at about 600 euros these were fun pieces. But the problem is that I've seen a render of one of the ideas they worked with and it was the type A dial with red numbers 1 and 2 (so it formed that 12) and that red seconds hand. And I feel like that was so much better. That slight asymetry in the design has transformed a traditional watch type into an unusual sight and I really like it. So in my dreams, I'd go with that concept. Or I just might do a mod like that, sorry for stealing the idea guys... But if we need an existing watch, then that limited edition celebrating 12 years of the dealer would do.
AP: Well, this was pretty easy for me, but anyway, it turned out to be a dilema. So, my first thought was a Tissot PRX, the smaller 35mm version. It's surprisign how many integrated bracelet watches were concieved in the 70s, while those legends designed by Genta were struggling for success. The quartz era helped to shape that I think, as it was much easier to do a decent integrated style watch with quartz than mechanical movement. And the original Tissot that the PRX brings back was a good example. But is it an alternative to the AP? Well, for me, sure. I own one, while I don't have the AP. But even in my head it's not the ultimate one. Because I really long for Czapek Antarctique S. It wears great on my wrist and even my wife likes it, so it may get a nod one day. Hard to get too, but not that hard as the AP. So although I generally like affordable alternativest, I'd go with the Czapek.
Hublot: I actually really like the basic Hublot case shape. Maybe it's well inspired by other legendary watches, but I think it just works. I like it so much that I actually bought the original Hublot Service Watch - it's a really bad quartz watch that probably cost like 5 dollars to make, but it has that shape and is a fun thing. Other thing I like Hublot for is experimenting with materials. And the watch questioned here is also technically sound, so it's not easy. But I'd go for a Bulgari Octo Finissimo Skeleton Chronograph. It is so unusual, the case nothing like anything else, the tech also amazing... Such a cool watch with flex potential close to Hublot.
Cartier Tank: no George, not the Reverso... This time, I'd go affordable and grab a Lorier Zephyr - a sweet microbrand, this being their new release with a nice vintage inspiration, cool small size and a wonderful option with a red dial. So cool.
RM: I really respect RM for what he does for horology, how high-tech approach he has to watches. It's unique and I think it really has no alternative So I agree here with Hublot being a sound alternative, especially with some of their pieces with unique materials used on the case or dials. I might as well consider any ugly skeletonized watch as an alternative but that's a huge insult. But when I confessed I like the Hublot case shape, I must say I don't like the RM case design and I don't like skeletonized watches much. Luckily, RM has an alternative for me, the RM-UP-01 - that has the tech, the futursistic approach and a design I actually like. Not much of an alternative, right? Who cares...
Monaco: I love the Monaco but for my tiny wrist the watch is just a tiny bit larger than I'd like to. So i must seek elswhere and there are really very few good square-ish designs with iconic potential. But I have two in my mind. One is Nomos Tetra, a simple Bauhaus style watch in various sizes that just wears great. I bought one for my wife and it looks great on my wrist too. A lovely piece. But let's go an affordable chronograph alternative here: Brew Metric - while a blend of many known shapes, the watch is really unique in whole and brings a lot of fun and joy to the table.
Nautilus: well, here, I was actually considering the Bell&Ross, the BR05. It's an integrated design, taking inspiration from many, but also distinct enough, for me. And I was surprised how this watch wears, many of the square-is and integrated bracelet watches were so large on my wrist, but this one wears great. But in the end I must agree with a choice of the Moser here. I's such a different take on the well-known topic, it's so great, wow.
Only, I just have realized one thing... That all of the choices above were unnecessary. Because this time, there's really one universal answer as an alternative to all of those watches. It's the Santos de Cartier. How on earth could that be an alternative to the IWC? Well, Santos was the first pilot's watch in fact, so this continuation can be an alternative to the more modern pilot's watches, right? AP and Nautilus? The Santos de Cartier has almost an integrated bracelet design and it has an iconic and well recognizable shape, so there it is, at least for me. Hublot and RM? Well, this is a bit of a stretch but you can get these in versions that are also a big flex, either in gold or also skeletonized and some larger sizes... So there you go. Monaco - well, you said it... The Cartier is almost square... There you have it.
Holy smokes - do you want a gig on the show, Orr? 👏🏻
@@AboutEffingTime Ha ha, that would be cool 🙂Or maybe very embarrassing 😀
@@AboutEffingTime Now THATS a comment!!!!!😄👏Bravo
“It’s the equivalent of having a date window which changes every four hours. You just don’t need it.” - Captain Boring
#perfectdescription
I love that you guys have set yourselves a prolonged exercise in futility. Another great episode.😆😆
A more perfect description there is not - the desolation sets in about halfway through
One thing I love is you guys bringing new brands to us viewers like HYT and Urban Jürgensen. Also love that you guys have so many watches in the studio, so much better than just seeing a few photos.
Your show is, apart from ruining me financially, effing awesome.
Your chemistry and the level of production is great. More disagreements please! ;)
Great chemistry, great show. Pure fun. 🎉
Howling with laughter when Adrian revealed the Hublot 🤣
Great to see Vertex getting some mention. Would love to hear more about them as a brand. I had an M100A and an MP45 Heritage on loan and they were so well made. At their pricepoint you will find it difficult to find anything else quite so well made, with the scarcity and uniqueness of design. The signature 3D Superluminova is a really beautiful and practical USP too.
If you like the Cartier Tank and you want an alternative, then I recommend looking at the Lorier Zephyr - an Art Deco dial, tonneau case automatic watch. Serious bang per buck & looks great - I own both a Cartier Tank Must & a Zephyr.
Lorier is good 👍🏻
The best Spanish watch brand so far I’ve seen is by Atelier de Chronometrie. They are based in Barcelona and for me still an underrated independent watchmaker.
Exactly, pretty awkward they didn't know this brand.
Agree with Andrew I’d rock the Tank Solarbeat as a daily driver and keep the Reverso Tribute as a dress watch…..orrrr have a Reverso classic on leather strap as a casual watch and have an Americane as my dress watch. You can have a place for both in the same collection
For the IWC Big Pilot, the Alpina Startimer Automatic Pilot is a great choice. I’ve had one for a couple of years, and it scratches the pilot watch itch. And you can find them for sub $800 all the time.
7:33 George picked my watch. 😁👍🏻
I’ve been binging you guys’ podcast on here.
Enjoy !
I believe that the Tag Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 could be the alternative for PP Nautilus. Its border pattern dial clearly respects the Nautilus and still offered in super accessible price point.
Great show!
Some of the suggested alternatives I’d pick over the icon itself!
For the Big Pilot, I think the actual alternative is to be a lightly used or unworn one on the secondary market for nearly 50% off from retail. But otherwise, the Kahaki Field Auto shown is mega
You guys are informative with a unique format plus entertaining ....subscribed
Love the little adventures at the start of season 2 episodes. 😎
Ahhh yesss. I’m glad you noticed. We worked hard on this aspect. Every ep in season 2 has difference scenarios. More to come. 🎉🎉🎉
You should do a segment where you find alternatives at less then 50% or more.
Now that’s a pretty great idea. And I agree it is a strange one cause you have to say what’s an equivalent in the same price bracket. Or what’s an equiv with the same case shape. Etc. but the price point factor is a good one for the future. Cheers for the comment.
Love the format guys ..it’s an education on new brands that most people would never consider …clever and inspiring!
Big Pilot Alternative: I think Farer makes excellent looking watches as an alternative to the Big Pilot! Cayley Verde, Cayley Azul, Bradfield all have a BP vibe to it, especially with their onion crown. Longines AlSpirit is also a good alternate too.
Royal Oak Alternative: as others stated, I think the CasiOak, whether in normal resin, full metal, or a mod would be the most budget alternative. I think the GP Laureato is a the best luxury alternative, and one I find cooler than both the Royal Oak and Nautilus. Very stoked the Laureato was chosen!! If I had the money and wanted a high end luxury integrated bracelet sports watch, it'd be the new 38mm copper dial Laureato. That watch is so killer. I was writing up Laureato before Andrew said it, so i was stoked to hear it. Also with others on PRX too.
Big Bang Alternative: Saving your money
Tank Alternative: Longines DolceVita is my same exact thought. Andrew going 2 for 2 with the Laureato and the DolceVita! Again, was writing up Longines DolceVita right before Andrew said it! I also do believe there is a Seiko Tank too.
RM Alternative: Buying a house, or 3
Monaco Alternative: Brew Retrograch-Technicolor is the meca-quartz alternative.
Nautilus: Same as my/Andrews RO alternative and exactly the same as Adrian, that 38mm copper dial Laureato.
I feel like the alternative to the Calatrava is Furlan Mari. The lugs and case shape of the Mecaquartz are spot on.
Streamliner was the one choice that made me really happy this episode. Now I'm air-guitaring when the outro starts. Great moment to share as usual gentlemen. Thanks to all of you and the crew.
That was a moment of true BAMFORD Inspiration ⚡️
I agree with Adrian, it would be more exciting to see a full size seconds hand on the zenith, at the same speed so it runs like the Defy Chrono with 1/100
You got me at the end. LOVE that Vertex. Will go and check it out 🙏🙏
Kudos Adrian wrt the Weiss vs IWC BP… excellent choice. The Weiss wears a bit large and has excellent presence on wrist.
Fantastic content ...luv it so much with 3 different opinions it makes for such an interesting and educational vid....Just keep it rolling please guys
Regarding the Reverso vs Tank. I was in multiple shops, comparing various Tanks to various types of Reversos. While I legitimately like both, the Cartier Tank always gave me a warm fuzzy feeling, and the Reverso had to be justified. Despite wonderful sales representatives best efforts, I ended up with a medium Tank Americaine on my wrist. While a Reverso Duo still makes me wonder sometimes, I remember I went back to a Tank Must quartz over the Reverso Duo....
BTW - Thanks to your show a few episodes ago, I learned about Blok watches. I purchased 3 for my oldest of 9 grandkids. So far two have opened them and LOVE them. They are legit!
This makes us all SUPER HAPPY
Episode 2! Tequila at the ready for the “Tag Shots”
Hey Guys, love the BYOI section as always. Riddle me this, am I the only one missing the Seiko love or are we getting a huge chunk in the future?
Cheers
Brace yourself, it's coming
The Skyline is super beautiful and while I wouldn't argue the 10 second sub-dial on the basis of function or aesthetics, I would argue on the basis of feeling; looking at a 10 second sub-dial ramps up my anxiety to 11! I would look at that dial and seeing that movement would give me nervous sweats and constitute a blood sugar drop combined with a panic attack, LOL!
Dead on about some of these not having alternatives because they are icons. The Monaco and this might be a stretch but the shinola Mackinac could be a good alternative. Same case shape and with ties to sailing which obviously is another form of racing.
The shape is bang on with that Shinola. I had not seen this one. Looks like someone took there Monaco and had a date with a spray gun. Wow. Super yellow and attention grabbing.
@@marcusflack1523 the yellow is a bit much for my taste. Place me in the captain boring camp 😂
@@bm5192 hahahaha plenty of room in that camp. I’m sure Adrian would appreciate the company.
Great shout Adrian that if you want a cartier tank a £2k steel tank is the way to go (or even a £1k vintage tank must)
Adrain, I think the Tank and Reverso are different enough. But! For most collectors their isn’t room in the collection for both. Gotta pick one or the other.
I love the clandestine ‘spy thriller’ intro sequence! Guys, such an enjoyable episode!
Thanks a lot, Marcus is sweating on these details 🔫 👟
My alternatives are; IWC: Oris Big Crown Cal 401. AP Royal Oak: Chopard Alpine Eagle. Hublot: Horage Supersede/Bvlgari Diagono Magnesium. Cartier Tank: Glashutte Original Karree. RM: not a single idea. Patek Nautilus: Atelier Wen Perception/Credor Pacifique GCBR991
The alpine eagle hands down should be the alt contender for the Royal oak. Man that’s a watch that keeps screaming out to me every time I look at it or shoot it. Bloody great watchmaking indeed.
@@marcusflack1523 just give it a couple of years , the Alpine Eagle will have depreciated quite significantly and will offer amazing value.
22:37 Adrian is smashing it this episode boys.
He’s the max crusher when he gets on a roll. A formidable force.
Wooohaaa let's seee! Sunday vibe 😍🎁☕️
Thanks for tuning in mate 👍🏻
Great channel and interesting development from your existing work. I watch and enjoy both. A subject for a future talk “Living with your watch” How easy is it to live with one brand versus another. I have a Datejust in for service with Rolex UK. It needs a new bracelet. They’ve had the watch 7 months saying it’ll be in soon. I’ve just had a date in March 2023 which would be nearly 1 year for a service. I’ve asked them to return the watch, no reply as yet. I hopefully will be on your website buying a leather strap in the New Year. Do you think its common to have problems running watches.
Excellent theme idea and good luck getting your baby back.
**This is a bit difficult to listen to on Spotify FYI. There is a lot of "this watch" etc. without any descriptors. Getting there though, keep it up!**
Guys, keep doing your thing....great show again.
I have a question, your chemistry works brilliantly so which one of u is Clarkson, which one is May and who's Hamond?
A breath of fresh air to the watch community.
Thanks guys 🇬🇧🇦🇺
🙌 that is not for us to say Brissie Boy 🙏🏻
Love the genuine watch opinion friendly disagreements😂. It’s genuine preference and taste differences. It works in this show amd already shows the watch game is all about personal preferences and who can influence the most! Who can articulate the ideas whether you are pushing “purpose” or “aesthetics”! Watch collecting is all about emotional attachment! 😂👍👍
Exactly!
"Alternative to the date window which changes every 4 hours"
Best line ever!! 🤣🤣🤣
🙄 (Andrew eye roll)
For a Spanish watch brand, Pita Barcelona was dope, but unfortunately is retired now. Interesting situation for independent Watch owners.
About effing time you guys talk about Serica. Fantastic watches. Their 5303 diver with the midnight blue bezel is beautiful. Thanks for the content.
We did! Season 1
The truest statement from GB this time: Moser Streamliner is the modern alternative for the Nautilus! Spot on! It's is just gorgeous, The Perfect Watch imho!
His crowing moment
For the Monaco, the Zenith Port Royal is the way to go
The IWC Big Pilot is a descendant of WWII Observation watches worn by German navigators onboard bombers. IWC follows the form of the earlier and less common A version of the dial.
The pilots wore chronographs, you’ve seen the equally iconic Hanhart and Tutima chronographs. I believe they were manufactured by others too. Those were probably around 38mm. They were hacked and set to navigator’s B-Uhr.
Look at the W10 used by the British military in the sixties and seventies, they were small by today’s standards. The chronographs issued at the time were under 40mm.
Yes the BP has a curious history in many ways - a watch made for modern times with origins in modern times
Navitimer is a classic. trends come and go. Wether it fits your style or not, there is no denying it is an iconic pilot watch. When I was alot younger I wanted one. I admit that it’s not as high on my list these days; however, I wouldn’t kick it out of bed. I admit am a little biased. I wear a vintage breitling that was given to me by my mom; Thus, breitling has a soft place in my heart. I love mine.
I will admit the iwc is classier
The Cartier tank is not only beautiful, it is a joy to wear. That being said …I really want a reverso :)
RM are at least fun to look at. Hublot not so much.
I enjoy listening to your points of view.
Snoopy ROCKS
Yes, the Tank and Reverso are interchangeable. Like a Sub and Seamaster.
*Andrew dies*
Look forward to watching you guys every week.
Great to hang with you
We need an episode dedicated to driving watches. I'd love to see you guys discuss the details, and history of some of the watch worlds most iconic items.
Now that’s a great idea! George would be able to gi over the full history of Tag Heuer for the whole hour and it would actually fit the brief then
Hi there guys just seen a few of your episodes and am very happy with what you have achieved well done see more of you soon ….
👋🏼
Look at the Pita Barcelona from Spain. I like the design and story. First watch made when he was 11 years old.
Wow very interesting. So a one hand watch approach. Good tip.
I agree with George. I don't know why anyone would buy a Tank when the Reverso exists. Also, Adrian's alternative to the RM is super lame. The Ulysse Nardin Freak is a much better alternative.
We have learned it is!
Also a good alt
How about the Frederique constant highlife? for a integrated bracelet it's pretty good imo.
It is good - we missed it
Thanks very much for this episode. I learned a lot. Perhaps I missed it-what was George wearing on wrist?
This episode was as chaotic as the World Cup final. I effin loved it.
🥹 we try to be better, but we fail
Many items are moving from an ownership to a leasing model. I probably like many have a collection of watches that get less and less wrist time the more I buy. There are definitely some watches that will,always have sentimental reasons to be keepers and none of my watches have investment potential. Is there scope for some sort of watch subscription model. Be interested in any views.
I too was waiting for the Tissot PRX to be an alt for the AP and the Casio- oak would have also been a great budget alternative.
Ophion watches are based in Spain but source parts throughout Europe. I think you can count them as a great Spanish watch brand
Excellent
Andrew is a gem, you guys rock!
One of the important events that you can use a zenith defy chronograph is in a race. That way, it would give you the absolute value in milli seconds when the contenders are so close that it happens in a split second. And what prides zenith is that they were one of the few that could achieve that with a great precision. With an in house automatic movement (where they literally have to DEFY the other forces such as gravity, which is easily done on a quartz).
Nice pitch that
George has 100% right! The JLC Reverso is better than the Cartier Tank
Adrian, Andrew and George...
Would you consider the Monaco... to be the alternative to the Bvlgari Octo Chrono? ⌚😅
NO 😂
I do own the Navitimer and for me it’s just a beautiful watch. Is it complex and a bit overloaded? Yes maybe - but that makes it special from my point of view. So for me it’s a beauty and beauty never gets dated ✌🏻
The great same banter, different perspectives, it's just like my mates and I round a table talking watches! Great show everyone ♥I have to say though, out of you 3, Andrew is more truer to the brief on alternatives picked this round!
We’ll chalk that up - they’ll take any win they can get haha
Awesome episode guys. ❤
To me the Chopard Alpine Eagle is the obvious alternative to the Nautilus in the same was that the Laureato is to the Royal Oak.
Can’t believe you guys left out the Oris Propilot in the comparison to the iwc. Cheers.
That’s cause we were leaving enough room for you to chime in William. And you never disappoint😊
@@marcusflack1523 🤣🤣🤣
I wonder if you guys could put specific reference numbers of watches discussed in the show notes?
I think when proper modern alternatives are hard to be found, vintage could be good way to, especially when we think about value for money and consider tones of unknown/neglected gems across different decades.
Don’t you think that materials and finitions of vintage are so inferior to today’s watches? Another idea of a broadcast.
First comparison in and 2/3 already failed. George and Captain boring bring a field watch to a fleiger fight. Come oooooooon
EDIT: Okay, Adrian has restored confidence. Hublot Big Bang as a RM alternative is MASTERFUL. When I see Hublot Big Bang, I think exactly as Adrian said, its to flaunt that "I can".
For the Tag Heuer, could I be a bit left field and suggest a Sinn 144 (or the OG Porsche Design if breaking the rules). Racing chrono, iconic design.
After a Land rover breaks down (and it will), what do you get next? Another Land rover mate!
You got it in one🎉🎉🎉
28:53 as an actual Latvian, I very much appreciate your work. Liked, subscribed.
Got to mention the Zenith Defy as well as a AP alternative.
I used the olive gin at a party last weekend and it was a huge hit. Cheers!
🫒 💥👊🏼
Alternative to the AP? Omega Constellation 39mm with steel bezel. Integrated bracelet, history, brand prestige, build quality and available. I’d take one (I own one) over an AP any day
How about an episode you call it the B-side, where you search into mainstream manufacturers website like JLC, Vacheron Constantine, Omega..etc and go through their collection and find hidden gems things that are off the main media, and expose it to us.
Monaco: what about the Breitling Top time range, look at the Deus for example? Let go of the aesthetics - yes it's not square but here you have a 60s inspired racing design, square subdials, bold pops of colour... its an alternative, it doesn't have to match the original icon. It's a chrono, a bicompax one too, and the brand has respect and heritage in buckets.
Great to see you back for S2! Surely the best comparison to the RM is the white ceramic Hublot Spirit of Big Bang
Nice
I’m surprised the Bremont Supernova wasn’t brought up as an AP Royal Oak alternative. I know the bracelet design is almost to close to the ap’s but the head of the watch is very different.
I see the JLC reverso as a more masculine version of the tank.. am I crazy?
No, it’s way chunkier and ‘muscled’ - good call!
The Tank and Reverso have their own slots in any collection for sure. Both brilliant. Each deserve their own slot.
I'm eager for the future 'reveal' that the Masked Watchmaker is Roger Smith.
Hahahahah like a scooby Doo episode. “And I would have gotten away with it had it not been cause of your meddling COSC certification. “ 😂
Love the TGN shirt.