I love how Orients remain so affordable. It is heartening to know that this level of in-house manufacturing is available to all watch lovers regardless of income. That is really cool. --Michael
And currently it is really mindblowing that they became so moddable with all those bracelets and bezels fitting skx inserts. After 2 years of enjoying original Ray II on original bracelet and natos I switched to miltat tapered oyster bracelet with solid endlinks, gave it new bezel with ceramic and lumed insert as the old aluminium one was pretty beat up too. Looks stunning, looks like new piece AND looks really like $1500 watch. That is just truly incredible stuff you get on such affordable level.
The Ray 2 is incredibly affordable. I live in Japan and got the beautiful blue dial one recently from amazon.co.jp for the equivalent of US110. It’s surely a great looking watch, but suffers from a too small, just a little difficult to screw in crown and my model just runs too fast, gaining about a second an hour on the wrist.
@@pymandragore yep, they fit perfectly. However I was a little worried about one thing before I received the bracelet, just something to keep in mind is that I've heard (I read it somewhere, not sure even where tbh, reddit probably) that some Rays, depending on where they were produced, have the holes in the lugs drilled in just slightly different positions and for some people it was an issue to fit the bracelet in or it just didn't fit at all. Anyways, it was not the case for me, everything worked out fine and it's just superb. And I ordered the parts from LIW by the way.
I’ve worn my Mako II almost every day for the last 2 years. It has seen every environment. Been paired with every type of outfit . From gym clothes to suits, and i still love putting it on every morning. It’s got chips and nicks, but it’s a watch and it still looks great
I love this top "5/10/.." type of videos, I've learned so much from them because you just go in detail and talk about the history of every watch. Would like to see a "Breitling Navitimer: Top 5 under $500 Alternatives" !
I first saw the orient on your channel and recently bought it. Now I have it on a dark red nato strap, looks really nice with the blue face of the watch. Thank you for not being a watch snob, I got one in the family actually so I know what I am taking about (no interest in horology but luxury brands only) I own some watches that are a lot more expensive than the Mako ll but I can never relax as I am afraid to get the very first scratch on it, afterwards it gets better but that’s why I love affordable quality watches you can have fun with, and you are helping us all with that. Thank you a lot :) great community, very helpful, very wholesome :)
Your unquestionable passion for horology is reflected in your video's! Your knowledge and wisdom is in a category of its own! Thank you for allocating the time to create such a phenomenal channel!
I bought a skx013 as a memorandum for graduating high school a couple of months ago. You, dear TGV were the nail in the coffin of my considerations towards it. Totally happy with it. Even more with it being discontinued now...
Interesting alternatives! Not the run-of-the-mill suggestions at all👍🏻 For a second I thought I spotted the flag of Finland at 10:19 but turned out to be nautical signal flags haha! Great quality content and a pleasure to watch as always, thank you!
Before watching (Just to see if we find any agreement as I watch): I am not big into Chinese watches. I am neither shy about them. If I see quality, I buy at many different price points and from several countries of origin. I own American watches, I own Swiss watches, I own Japanese watches, I own German watches and...yeah...I own a few Chinese watches too. In my humble opinion, the Chinese are the undisputed Kings in the "homage" category. And because they have mastered this, forget being "under 500" bones. I'll get you under 2000 bones, and show you alternatives here that you really have to be picky to tell the difference. Submariner: Steeldive 1953. I originally had a Pagani in this slot, but the Steeldive is superior to it in every way. And because the Pagani was so inexpensive...I ripped it apart and used it to practice my 2M skills. Price for the Steeldive: 250 listed, usually sold for 175 or less...on sale for 95 on the day I bought. Seamaster: Here is where Pagani shines...BRIGHTLY! Their Seamaster homages are so good that you have to hold them in your hand and put on your reading glasses..or walk into a dark room to do a lume test, to tell they aren't the real thing. This includes their black and gold 007, which comes in at 150 clams. Now, do not get me wrong. There is no trophy given out for being the best at copying other people. But in the "copycat" category, China wins...6:30(hands down). ****Ahhh, now watching: You gave points for not being a blatant ripoff. Haha, in that case, forget the two I mentioned above. Mine are, without question, full blatant ripoffs. In that case, I am going to agree with the Orient pick for the sub. I am watching this two years after the fact, so I own the successor to these Makos and Rays, the Kamasu. I love that watch!
I've gone from 1 to 7 watches in the last 2 months because of this channel. Also a box to keep them in and a watch repair kit. Not forgetting more EDC items. Nice to see one of my pieces in your top 5. Keep up the good work. All the best from Dorset!!
Thanks for this TGV. May be it's time for a Glycine they do look great. Always stalking the next watch . . Wishing you and the Gentry a very Happy Christmas.
I bought a V1 off of ebay last month and will be getting it over the holidays so haven't even seen it yet. Cannot wait to have it on wrist. Fell in love with the smaller dialled Neptune but after they changed the design. I am hoping the condition is good. I would check ebay. I was checking everyday until one at a fair price in my country came up.
Spot on with the Neptune. I absolutely love mine. On similar lines I've been impressed with the micro brand diver made by Baltic. BTW: Merry Christmas to you and your family TGV -- and I look forward to more great watch videos in 2020.
Baltic are great too, I borrowed one last year, sadly I never had time to review it, but good call suggestions it. Thank you Dave, merry Xmas to you and yours. 2020 is going to be amazing!!! :D Best regards, TGV
Great video; love the Bond theme and your enthusiasm for these watches. For me the Lorier is perfect... it’s got a wonderful understated elegance and style of its own while also harking back to the feeling of early Rolex and Tudor Subs without going down the homage route. Have a feeling this will be finding a way into my collection soon!
Welcome home and Merry Christmas TGV and got to say.. you have by far the best intro of any watch channel out there.. love the music 💯 P.S bought the Seiko flighty that you have mentioned many times and love it👌🏽👍🏽
1:53 Kandinsky's Several Circles, one of my favourite ones! On Orient, I went for the Mako II over the Ray because those numerals make the watch look much more different from the Submariner
Merry Christmas to you and your relations, TGV. Thanks for a wonderful year of videos. Time with friends and family is the most important thing we have, and I hope you enjoy yours.
new to watches!! loving this channel!!! First auto was a Seiko 5 snk805. thinking of making my second either a Sekio Alpinist, of Bulova Devil Diver. community vote?
I love the video, and I totally agree with your assessment of Orient watches. However, I think you missed the best Orient deal of the bunch... The Orient Mako II USA. Upgrades include enhanced lume, a sapphire crystal, and solid endlinks. The only thing missing is a ceramic bezel. But Marc at Long Island Watch, being the consummate engineer that he is, had a new bezel manufactured that allows you to add any SKX bezel insert. With recent discounts on Orient's website, you can get this updated Orient for $200. Even with Marc's amazing bezel and ceramic bezel, the whole package is less than $300.00. That is hard to beat...
I've been a very good boy this year and I hope my letter to Santa got through...coz the Glycine Combat was top of my list. Merry Xmas TGV. Good work fella.
Really proud to have Orient Blue ray 2. To me it's a mix of James Bond's Omega Seamaster and Rolex Submariner and that's something I really like about it. I have it for around 3 years now and it haven't disappointed me not a single time. It's beautifully made with a lot of nice well made details and I recommend everybody who likes divers and all that style to buy it! -Andrija Zecevic
What no Tissot Seastar 1000? Best value dive watch under $500 - Ceramic top ring bezel, sapphire crystal and 80hrs power reserve. Can’t beat that in all of your featured top 5. Well it’s always a pleasure watching your videos TGV!
The Orient Ray II was my first "serious" watch and i realy liked to wear it for a couple of years. Now, about 3 month ago, i bumped into a door an the edge of the glass shattered. To test it i ordered a coinedge bezel, a black ceramic insert and a domed saphire crystal from namoki. In the meantime i serviced and regulated my watch. I’ve mounted the parts, put on a wrist candy watch club strap and fell in love again. The new parts are a huge upgrade and now it is my personal homage to the 62MAS. Thank you TGV for all you great videos and carissimi saluti dall’italia. 👍👍
Hi TGV, i got a challenge for you, that is a Sarb035 replacement/something similar, I bought one recently but now they are getting too expensive, it’s ridiculous. The biggest problem is that the Sarx/Sary are simply too big for smaller wrists to wear in all situations and more expensive as well. So an everyday watch (preferably a clean and simple design like the sarb) with at least 100m water resistance you can both dress up and down in a similar price category or a bit more expensive is something I haven’t found yet. Please help us guys with smaller wrists. Or at least something that satisfies some of those criteria Keep up the good work and greetings from London:)
Greetings TGV , I am new to your channel and enjoy your writing and camera work. Being an older man (68) and have worn a wrist watch everyday of my life since I was about 8 years old I'm so glad to see young men and women wearing watches again , even if a fair amount of them are Apple watches , which I am not a fan of but I guess it qualifies even if it requires daily charging Being a collect of sorts and by that I mean a collection of watches under $100 dollars . Thank you all the great content. RGW in NC
Absolutely love your passion. Why wouldn't you start a series about history behind legendary watches and companies - so neophytes like myself could learn more about it?
I have learnt so much from your channel about great affordable watches that wont break the bank of this factory worker from Wiltshire.Have a great new year and keep them coming,I learn something new with every one😁
Casio Duro. So affordable, and WR 200m, and I'm impressed at how incredibly silent it is. Hopefully that Timex diver in your list is not like the Timex Weekenders. Don't get me wrong, the Weekenders are good value watches, but I can't sleep when wearing one or even when having it near my bed. I can however perfectly sleep with the Casio Duro right next to my ear. Of course loud ticking is irrelevant for a diver, but a good diver can easily be a great daily sports watch / beater / all rounder. Yet a loud ticking prevents a watch from being that, imho.
@@Ilestun 6 o'clock date and wave dial with Zirkonium diOxide paint? Its not the specific of the watch, but I think I have just some mental block against Dive bezels. the closest I've seen is the Longines Heritage Super compressor. but it has one of the worst looking handsets I know.
have you owned a dive watch before? i never liked them until i bought a lorier neptune after watching an urban gentry vid. now i definitely "get" it. though i wouldn't ever have more than a couple dive watches in my collection, that would be way too redundant. but i think the appeal is they fit for almost all occasions except formal and some sports. and there is a romance in knowing the watch is rugged and reliable and can handle anything you throw at it even meter after meter of water even though most won't test it beyond a day at the river or beach or fishing or the like.
You're videos are awesome man. As someone who's just getting into watches, you're opinions are well respected and give a good perspective on things! Keep being amazing
I agree, but he certainly has a bias for mechanicals/automatics. While I appreciate the massive amount of skill and engineering that goes into a mechanical/automatic timepiece, there's simply better watches. They're not accurate, they tend to require expensive servicing, etc. There's the value of not ever needing battery changes and would survive an EMP, but quartz and even eco-drives absolutely provide more bang for the buck and comparable quality. But then again, he's an horologist and not your common watch wearer.
Mais uma lista de excelência. O vídeo ficou muito bom e serviu para mostrar relógios de fino acabamento a preços acessíveis. Parabéns pelo vídeo....👏👏👏👏
I know this question is kinda odd but I'm thinking to buy l a watch but couldn't decide between these 2: 1one is (Timex tx2r60900 Quartz watch) cost about 50usd second one is (Seiko 5 military automatic Snk805k2) cost about 185usd yes I know that you can buy it for 100$ in the US but I'm from Ukraine and that is the price that I can buy for my question is is it worth overpaying the 85$ for Seiko I guess it's a better watch of course I'm not sure this is gonna be my 1st watch so any help appreciated
It's a cool watch indeed. But I would prefer to experience it first rather then trusting online "articles", I did a video all about the terrible state of the watch media back at the beginning of the year. Sadly the situation has only got worse since then. Thank you Nathan, Best regards, TGV
The Urban Gentry that’s a good point. Probably should be in a habit of trying watches on first. I was under the impression hodinkee were a reputable source. I’ll make sure to take your advice on board!
Lately the Orient Mako II USA has been on sale for $200. Sapphire, in-house, hack/wind, solid end links. Truly a bargain and available in 3 dif dials; black, white, or blue.
Orient Kamasu (the green one) is my recommendation for this price range. $200-300, sapphire, beautiful dial and full of character. P.S. Love the glycine too!
Instantly recognized that quaint country room! Great place, it seems! These are all pretty cool, affordable alternatives, and I wonder which one I’ll be treating myself to this Christmas! Godspeed, Owen
Good to see a mention of Orient. I own a Mako XL, and at the moment it’s my favourite watch (I’m saving for a Black Bay 58). Such a good quality, value for money automatic diver, and one that I’m very attached to. Always happy too to hear you endorse Seiko - I’ve owned 3 - a Kinetic, a 5 and a mecha-quartz chrono. All lovely watches, and terrific value for money.
OMG the Lorie. I’ve said for years now “not one more watch”. This is the first time I’ve said “I’m going to think bout it”. It is just a piece of art, like when you see an Art Deco modern building. Wow!
Great video and great choices. I have the GLYCINE combat Sub "GoldenEye" which is very nice, esp. with the black Milanese that TGV suggested. It wasn't available when the video was made but an alternative to the lorier that I own is the gilt dress KX, Seiko srpe57. Very Bondian.
Just wanted to say I'm a huge fan of you and your work! You inspired me to get the Dan Henry 1964 and I'm keen to get some more watches you've reviewed. You videos are fun, informative, great for newbies! I love all your videos and how much you enjoy the passion of watches. I'm very happy I came across the Urban Gentry! :)
I was watching the video awaiting stressfully to see if glycine made it to the top, with my new combat sub on the wrist, I was so happy to see it top 2, great work as always TGV, also really like the 24 hour dial see-trough on the timex
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year TGV! Thanks to you I rediscovered my interest in watches. Since watching this channel I added a victorinox maverick 2, seiko 5, and orient sun and moon to my watch collection. I only use my smart watch as a gym watch and when I go snowboarding. Want to add a seiko or glycine watch to my collection. In addition to the orient ray II.
Wonderful video. I've just gotten an Orient Bambino to complement my SKN. Both beautiful pieces that make me very happy. I would love to see your suggestion of a 5/6 watch collection with affordable pieces for a younger audience.
Way of topic but i love your RAN film poster!! Kurosawa is astounding as a director - Seven Samurai is fantastic. Love seeing you back in England. All the best over the Christmas period. Peace n Love
At first I was surprised that my favorite dive watch, the Squale Y1545, was not featured, but then I remember I paid about $600. Just missed the cut off! LOL Great video as always. It reminded me how much I still want a Glycine Combat Sub. I purchased the golden eye model a year ago and returned it because I was planning on purchasing the Squale Y1545. Cheers from Chicago! Peter
One that you didn't mention would be the Maen Hudson 38; also it's soon to be discontinued larger sibling, the Hudson 42. Beautiful watches with swiss movements.
Thank you for entertaining video, excellent watches. My favourite micro brand is FORMEX Essence, I love this watch I know it’s not in the theme but I thought I had to mention it. I always look forward to wearing it.sean
I picked up a used Lorier Neptune a few weeks ago, and it really is incredible. I've had several watches with NH35's, but the one in this watch has been running at a really consistent ± 2 seconds a day. When you can get a watch with such a gorgeous original design, spectacular quality, and a movement operating near within COSC for 400$ new (or less if you buy it used like I did) it makes you wonder about the purpose of things like a Black Bay 58. On a related note, I would love to see a watch duel between the BB58 and the Neptune. It's obviously not a fair fight, but it would be an interesting comparison and I think the Neptune makes a good case for itself.
The purpose of owning a Black Bay is you don't have to roll the dice to own an accurate watch. My Black Bay is consistently around + 3 seconds a MONTH. Cheers
Derek Shearer what’s the big deal with flaunting the accuracy of your Black Bay? I have the BB58 and other way more expensive mechanical watches yet any quartz watch will beat these watches. The purpose of a luxury diver is to flaunt that you are a man of action WITH money to spare and in that aspect, there will always be another guy with more money than you (and me). So let’s take this hobby of ours less seriously please.
@@GabrielTan1980. You didn't get the point l was trying to make and automatically assumed l was flaunting. I would suggest you take your own advice to heart. Cheers and have a great day
Derek Shearer your point is that owning a Black Bay would get you a consistently accurate watch isn’t it? Then get a quartz as that would be more accurate.
@@GabrielTan1980. My point was if you buy a watch with a COSC certification you get +6 to-4 sec a day. If you buy a watch with a NH35 you get a stated accuracy of +40 to-20 a day. Do you see my point now. If you get +5 a day on a NH35 you are super lucky. If you get +5 on a Black bay you are almost out of spec. So when l get +3 sec a day on my Black bay l am very lucky but you are never going to get that on a NH35. I don't own a watch with electronic components. I love the mecanical movements and how human engineering can make something so accurate with ony gears levers and springs. Cheers
I've got both the Glycine 42mm sub and the Ray II (blue), can definitely vouch for both. I was saddened to see that one of my collection faves wasn't nominated, the Deep Blue Master 1000, but it's not that well known so I'm not surprised, it's a short list after all.
I know WatchBox is cool, but they have a limited library and often times don’t recognize the watches in my collection. Even the most common Swiss watches like a Tag Aquaracer Calibre 5 or Tissot swissmatic.
Not watched (groan!) your channel before. I really like your positive presentation style. I'm looking for an inexpensive new watch for 2020, your guide has really helped, thanks!
Fantastic videos really enjoy watching and learning from your channel. Currently wearing my orient ray 2 on my self made paracord black reflective strap.
So somewhere, in some forum(I don't know where) I read a post talking TGV down, and had a long to a UA-camr "reviewing" the Urban Gentry channel and it's host, TGV. I don't remember his name, and I don't believe his video was designed to send viewers this way(he was opinionated about TGV, and not all nice. He had a similar video about archiluxury guy). But here's the thing. I didn't finish his video. And have since subscribed here. Huh. Great video, btw. I keep seeing "Invicta" pop up here in the comments, and I can't tell if people are being serious or saying in jest. But I DO know an NH35-powered Pro Diver(for under $75) is what got a wristwatch back on my wrist. Great channel. Great vibes, great info. Happy Christmas!
Ah, I see you're back in England for Christmas! Always great to see a video from your vacation house. I hope you're enjoying your time away, and that you find it relaxing. I wish your family a very happy holidays!
I'm wearing my Ray 2 right now. Agree with all of the watches except the Lorier. Lorier basically does the same thing Filippo Loreti does. The Seiko movement in that watch is $40 brand new form a reputable jewelery manufacturer and is manufactured in China. Their website tells the same story about bringing value to the masses. I'm not watch snob and do love the way the Neptune looks but for the same price there are likely submariner alternatives options that have more horological punch no? Merry Christmas TGV. Always love your suggestions, videos and overall class.
I love my orient ray 2, it's my first automatic watch and I get so many compliments on it. I'm hoping to change the mineral crystal on it to sapphire when I get the chance. Thanks for the video TGV and Merry Christmas to you!
In my opinion the SEIKO SRPB91 is extremely close to looking like a Rolex Submariner. Can you also review the watch it looks like a great watch under $200. Keep up the great videos!
Thanks for your video. Right now I’m looking for a diver, case diameter < 40mm, which is a bit difficult to find (no Invicta). However, I came across the Gigandet Sea Ground 100 Vintage, which looks pretty good. What’s your opinion on that piece?
The Steinhart homage watches would certainly be a Bond watch. ETA 2824-2 and a domed plexiglass crystal. The one I have is the Ocean One. A 39mm width. Fantastic.
You should've mentioned the USA line of Orient. I got myself a Mako II USA (non-numeric indices, sapphire glass, hand winding, 120 clicks bezel, etc) for $199 last week! They're on sale for the holidays!
I agree with Timex to pioneer the indiglo with the automatic movement. Even better to link the light to a solar panel. Then you don't have to open the case. Pipedream..
Great list and so happy to see you include Lorier at #5 (I love my Lorier Falcon). Too bad Squale is just outside the $500 limit to make the list though.
TGV not forgetting about us beginners. What a class act! Thanks for another great video
I love how Orients remain so affordable. It is heartening to know that this level of in-house manufacturing is available to all watch lovers regardless of income. That is really cool.
--Michael
And currently it is really mindblowing that they became so moddable with all those bracelets and bezels fitting skx inserts. After 2 years of enjoying original Ray II on original bracelet and natos I switched to miltat tapered oyster bracelet with solid endlinks, gave it new bezel with ceramic and lumed insert as the old aluminium one was pretty beat up too. Looks stunning, looks like new piece AND looks really like $1500 watch. That is just truly incredible stuff you get on such affordable level.
The Ray 2 is incredibly affordable. I live in Japan and got the beautiful blue dial one recently from amazon.co.jp for the equivalent of US110. It’s surely a great looking watch, but suffers from a too small, just a little difficult to screw in crown and my model just runs too fast, gaining about a second an hour on the wrist.
@@LuksWGS Interesting, I didn't know about that! Are bracelet endlinks also compatible?
@@pymandragore yep, they fit perfectly. However I was a little worried about one thing before I received the bracelet, just something to keep in mind is that I've heard (I read it somewhere, not sure even where tbh, reddit probably) that some Rays, depending on where they were produced, have the holes in the lugs drilled in just slightly different positions and for some people it was an issue to fit the bracelet in or it just didn't fit at all. Anyways, it was not the case for me, everything worked out fine and it's just superb. And I ordered the parts from LIW by the way.
Just got my orient mako xl....awesome watch love the weight of it
I’ve worn my Mako II almost every day for the last 2 years. It has seen every environment. Been paired with every type of outfit . From gym clothes to suits, and i still love putting it on every morning.
It’s got chips and nicks, but it’s a watch and it still looks great
Same mate I wear the blue mako 2 everyday
Still rocking my Mako 1 on a daily basis which I got brand new for 65 EUR at that time.
I love this top "5/10/.." type of videos, I've learned so much from them because you just go in detail and talk about the history of every watch.
Would like to see a "Breitling Navitimer: Top 5 under $500 Alternatives" !
I first saw the orient on your channel and recently bought it. Now I have it on a dark red nato strap, looks really nice with the blue face of the watch.
Thank you for not being a watch snob, I got one in the family actually so I know what I am taking about (no interest in horology but luxury brands only)
I own some watches that are a lot more expensive than the Mako ll but I can never relax as I am afraid to get the very first scratch on it, afterwards it gets better but that’s why I love affordable quality watches you can have fun with, and you are helping us all with that. Thank you a lot :) great community, very helpful, very wholesome :)
As soon as I saw the video title I knew the Lorier Neptune would be in it. Great watch!
Your unquestionable passion for horology is reflected in your video's! Your knowledge and wisdom is in a category of its own! Thank you for allocating the time to create such a phenomenal channel!
I bought a skx013 as a memorandum for graduating high school a couple of months ago. You, dear TGV were the nail in the coffin of my considerations towards it. Totally happy with it. Even more with it being discontinued now...
"Bondian" is now my new favourite word.
I wanna like but its at 69 should i break it
Merry Christmas man, thank you for all the education I received from you this year!
Hearing that makes me so happy, an honor and a pleasure!
Have a wonderful holidays, thank you my friend.
Best regards,
TGV
Here here.
Interesting alternatives! Not the run-of-the-mill suggestions at all👍🏻 For a second I thought I spotted the flag of Finland at 10:19 but turned out to be nautical signal flags haha!
Great quality content and a pleasure to watch as always, thank you!
Before watching (Just to see if we find any agreement as I watch):
I am not big into Chinese watches. I am neither shy about them. If I see quality, I buy at many different price points and from several countries of origin. I own American watches, I own Swiss watches, I own Japanese watches, I own German watches and...yeah...I own a few Chinese watches too.
In my humble opinion, the Chinese are the undisputed Kings in the "homage" category. And because they have mastered this, forget being "under 500" bones. I'll get you under 2000 bones, and show you alternatives here that you really have to be picky to tell the difference.
Submariner: Steeldive 1953. I originally had a Pagani in this slot, but the Steeldive is superior to it in every way. And because the Pagani was so inexpensive...I ripped it apart and used it to practice my 2M skills. Price for the Steeldive: 250 listed, usually sold for 175 or less...on sale for 95 on the day I bought.
Seamaster: Here is where Pagani shines...BRIGHTLY! Their Seamaster homages are so good that you have to hold them in your hand and put on your reading glasses..or walk into a dark room to do a lume test, to tell they aren't the real thing. This includes their black and gold 007, which comes in at 150 clams.
Now, do not get me wrong. There is no trophy given out for being the best at copying other people. But in the "copycat" category, China wins...6:30(hands down).
****Ahhh, now watching: You gave points for not being a blatant ripoff. Haha, in that case, forget the two I mentioned above. Mine are, without question, full blatant ripoffs.
In that case, I am going to agree with the Orient pick for the sub. I am watching this two years after the fact, so I own the successor to these Makos and Rays, the Kamasu. I love that watch!
Love my Steeldive , absolute tank
I've gone from 1 to 7 watches in the last 2 months because of this channel. Also a box to keep them in and a watch repair kit. Not forgetting more EDC items. Nice to see one of my pieces in your top 5. Keep up the good work. All the best from Dorset!!
Could someone tell me whats the model of the Glycine tank watch thats on the newspaper at 12:37. Could'nt find it anywhere!!
Thanks for this TGV. May be it's time for a Glycine they do look great. Always stalking the next watch . .
Wishing you and the Gentry a very Happy Christmas.
I really want the Gen 1 Neptune, I love the slightly undersized dial.
I love mine, and never understood the need for the design change. The gen1 feels more right somehow.
I bought a V1 off of ebay last month and will be getting it over the holidays so haven't even seen it yet. Cannot wait to have it on wrist. Fell in love with the smaller dialled Neptune but after they changed the design. I am hoping the condition is good. I would check ebay. I was checking everyday until one at a fair price in my country came up.
Spot on with the Neptune. I absolutely love mine. On similar lines I've been impressed with the micro brand diver made by Baltic. BTW: Merry Christmas to you and your family TGV -- and I look forward to more great watch videos in 2020.
Baltic are great too, I borrowed one last year, sadly I never had time to review it, but good call suggestions it.
Thank you Dave, merry Xmas to you and yours.
2020 is going to be amazing!!! :D
Best regards,
TGV
Great video; love the Bond theme and your enthusiasm for these watches. For me the Lorier is perfect... it’s got a wonderful understated elegance and style of its own while also harking back to the feeling of early Rolex and Tudor Subs without going down the homage route. Have a feeling this will be finding a way into my collection soon!
personally i would pick a sznf Sea Urchin over Tuna, resembles more to a submariner, hence the nickname "Bond on a budget"
Great vid TGV!
"Bond on a budget" 😃🤣🤣👍
Welcome home and Merry Christmas TGV and got to say.. you have by far the best intro of any watch channel out there.. love the music 💯
P.S bought the Seiko flighty that you have mentioned many times and love it👌🏽👍🏽
Thank you Zee!
You are a true gent. Welcome to the flighty club my friend!
I hope it brings you as much happiness as it has for me.
Best regards,
TGV
Great video TGV!! I have a Glycine Combat Sub and I love it!! Greetings from Chile.
1:53 Kandinsky's Several Circles, one of my favourite ones! On Orient, I went for the Mako II over the Ray because those numerals make the watch look much more different from the Submariner
Merry Christmas to you and your relations, TGV. Thanks for a wonderful year of videos. Time with friends and family is the most important thing we have, and I hope you enjoy yours.
new to watches!! loving this channel!!! First auto was a Seiko 5 snk805. thinking of making my second either a Sekio Alpinist, of Bulova Devil Diver. community vote?
I love the video, and I totally agree with your assessment of Orient watches. However, I think you missed the best Orient deal of the bunch... The Orient Mako II USA. Upgrades include enhanced lume, a sapphire crystal, and solid endlinks. The only thing missing is a ceramic bezel. But Marc at Long Island Watch, being the consummate engineer that he is, had a new bezel manufactured that allows you to add any SKX bezel insert. With recent discounts on Orient's website, you can get this updated Orient for $200. Even with Marc's amazing bezel and ceramic bezel, the whole package is less than $300.00. That is hard to beat...
I have the Neptune. Love mine! I ordered the Blue 1. Cracking watch and I agree Husband and Wife team are great people.
I've been a very good boy this year and I hope my letter to Santa got through...coz the Glycine Combat was top of my list.
Merry Xmas TGV.
Good work fella.
I love mine, can definitely vouch for it.
Really proud to have Orient Blue ray 2. To me it's a mix of James Bond's Omega Seamaster and Rolex Submariner and that's something I really like about it. I have it for around 3 years now and it haven't disappointed me not a single time. It's beautifully made with a lot of nice well made details and I recommend everybody who likes divers and all that style to buy it!
-Andrija Zecevic
What no Tissot Seastar 1000? Best value dive watch under $500 - Ceramic top ring bezel, sapphire crystal and 80hrs power reserve. Can’t beat that in all of your featured top 5. Well it’s always a pleasure watching your videos TGV!
The Orient Ray II was my first "serious" watch and i realy liked to wear it for a couple of years. Now, about 3 month ago, i bumped into a door an the edge of the glass shattered. To test it i ordered a coinedge bezel, a black ceramic insert and a domed saphire crystal from namoki. In the meantime i serviced and regulated my watch. I’ve mounted the parts, put on a wrist candy watch club strap and fell in love again. The new parts are a huge upgrade and now it is my personal homage to the 62MAS.
Thank you TGV for all you great videos and carissimi saluti dall’italia. 👍👍
TGV is one grounded dude. Great to see these wonderful‘ affordables’ celebrated!
Bravo!
Hi TGV, i got a challenge for you, that is a Sarb035 replacement/something similar, I bought one recently but now they are getting too expensive, it’s ridiculous. The biggest problem is that the Sarx/Sary are simply too big for smaller wrists to wear in all situations and more expensive as well.
So an everyday watch (preferably a clean and simple design like the sarb) with at least 100m water resistance you can both dress up and down in a similar price category or a bit more expensive is something I haven’t found yet. Please help us guys with smaller wrists. Or at least something that satisfies some of those criteria
Keep up the good work and greetings from London:)
Greetings TGV , I am new to your channel and enjoy your writing and camera work. Being an older man (68) and have worn a wrist watch everyday of my life since I was about 8 years old I'm so glad to see young men and women wearing watches again , even if a fair amount of them are Apple watches , which I am not a fan of but I guess it qualifies even if it requires daily charging
Being a collect of sorts and by that I mean a collection of watches under $100 dollars . Thank you all the great content.
RGW in NC
Absolutely love your passion. Why wouldn't you start a series about history behind legendary watches and companies - so neophytes like myself could learn more about it?
I have learnt so much from your channel about great affordable watches that wont break the bank of this factory worker from Wiltshire.Have a great new year and keep them coming,I learn something new with every one😁
6:30 Love the wallpaper of the middle computer. 👍
Casio Duro. So affordable, and WR 200m, and I'm impressed at how incredibly silent it is. Hopefully that Timex diver in your list is not like the Timex Weekenders. Don't get me wrong, the Weekenders are good value watches, but I can't sleep when wearing one or even when having it near my bed. I can however perfectly sleep with the Casio Duro right next to my ear. Of course loud ticking is irrelevant for a diver, but a good diver can easily be a great daily sports watch / beater / all rounder. Yet a loud ticking prevents a watch from being that, imho.
One day....
Ill find a Dive watch I like.
Untill that day.
Ill watch this channel if I see one.
DonRaynor try Baltic aquascaphe
So it is possible to not like the latest superb Seamaster pro 300M ?
I learned something new :D
@@Ilestun 6 o'clock date and wave dial with Zirkonium diOxide paint?
Its not the specific of the watch, but I think I have just some mental block against Dive bezels. the closest I've seen is the Longines Heritage Super compressor. but it has one of the worst looking handsets I know.
have you owned a dive watch before? i never liked them until i bought a lorier neptune after watching an urban gentry vid. now i definitely "get" it. though i wouldn't ever have more than a couple dive watches in my collection, that would be way too redundant. but i think the appeal is they fit for almost all occasions except formal and some sports. and there is a romance in knowing the watch is rugged and reliable and can handle anything you throw at it even meter after meter of water even though most won't test it beyond a day at the river or beach or fishing or the like.
@@mitchaelhollingsworth1698 My Dan henry 1970 just arrived from repair. Other that that Super Compressor, I have not owned any.
You're videos are awesome man. As someone who's just getting into watches, you're opinions are well respected and give a good perspective on things! Keep being amazing
I agree, but he certainly has a bias for mechanicals/automatics. While I appreciate the massive amount of skill and engineering that goes into a mechanical/automatic timepiece, there's simply better watches. They're not accurate, they tend to require expensive servicing, etc. There's the value of not ever needing battery changes and would survive an EMP, but quartz and even eco-drives absolutely provide more bang for the buck and comparable quality. But then again, he's an horologist and not your common watch wearer.
Yesssss!!! The Golden Tuna. I bought mine due to the Moore connection. However I sold mine and I've now got sellers remorse!
Mais uma lista de excelência. O vídeo ficou muito bom e serviu para mostrar relógios de fino acabamento a preços acessíveis. Parabéns pelo vídeo....👏👏👏👏
solid watch advice for anyone just starting his watch collection journey.
I know this question is kinda odd but I'm thinking to buy l a watch but couldn't decide between these 2: 1one is (Timex tx2r60900 Quartz watch) cost about 50usd second one is (Seiko 5 military automatic Snk805k2) cost about 185usd yes I know that you can buy it for 100$ in the US but I'm from Ukraine and that is the price that I can buy for my question is is it worth overpaying the 85$ for Seiko I guess it's a better watch of course I'm not sure this is gonna be my 1st watch so any help appreciated
Orient kamasu seems to be flying under the radar. I first seen it in a hodinkee article, and plan on getting it soon!
It's a cool watch indeed. But I would prefer to experience it first rather then trusting online "articles", I did a video all about the terrible state of the watch media back at the beginning of the year. Sadly the situation has only got worse since then.
Thank you Nathan,
Best regards,
TGV
The Urban Gentry that’s a good point. Probably should be in a habit of trying watches on first. I was under the impression hodinkee were a reputable source. I’ll make sure to take your advice on board!
Lately the Orient Mako II USA has been on sale for $200. Sapphire, in-house, hack/wind, solid end links. Truly a bargain and available in 3 dif dials; black, white, or blue.
I have the Blue Orient Kamasu for over a year now. Best entry level Diver's watch right now. This is the de facto SKX replacement, in my opinion.
This comment might be getting noticed.....
Orient Kamasu (the green one) is my recommendation for this price range. $200-300, sapphire, beautiful dial and full of character. P.S. Love the glycine too!
Instantly recognized that quaint country room! Great place, it seems! These are all pretty cool, affordable alternatives, and I wonder which one I’ll be treating myself to this Christmas!
Godspeed,
Owen
Good to see a mention of Orient. I own a Mako XL, and at the moment it’s my favourite watch (I’m saving for a Black Bay 58). Such a good quality, value for money automatic diver, and one that I’m very attached to. Always happy too to hear you endorse Seiko - I’ve owned 3 - a Kinetic, a 5 and a mecha-quartz chrono. All lovely watches, and terrific value for money.
OMG the Lorie. I’ve said for years now “not one more watch”. This is the first time I’ve said “I’m going to think bout it”. It is just a piece of art, like when you see an Art Deco modern building. Wow!
Thanks for reminding me about the Timex, I've been waiting for it to be restocked since watching your review.
Great video and great choices. I have the GLYCINE combat Sub "GoldenEye" which is very nice, esp. with the black Milanese that TGV suggested.
It wasn't available when the video was made but an alternative to the lorier that I own is the gilt dress KX, Seiko srpe57. Very Bondian.
Just wanted to say I'm a huge fan of you and your work! You inspired me to get the Dan Henry 1964 and I'm keen to get some more watches you've reviewed. You videos are fun, informative, great for newbies! I love all your videos and how much you enjoy the passion of watches. I'm very happy I came across the Urban Gentry! :)
Hi TGV, given you have not mentioned that you exclude homage watches, I would go for the Steinhart Milsub on no.1
Thanks for including Orient and Seiko SKX. My modest collection appreciates that very much. Merry Christmas TGV.
I was watching the video awaiting stressfully to see if glycine made it to the top, with my new combat sub on the wrist, I was so happy to see it top 2, great work as always TGV, also really like the 24 hour dial see-trough on the timex
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year TGV! Thanks to you I rediscovered my interest in watches. Since watching this channel I added a victorinox maverick 2, seiko 5, and orient sun and moon to my watch collection. I only use my smart watch as a gym watch and when I go snowboarding. Want to add a seiko or glycine watch to my collection. In addition to the orient ray II.
Another fab video , glad you put the tuna at number 1 I brought the exact same model at the start of the year it's a cracking watch.
Having a tough time with a James Bond Timex. But a Felix Lighter Timex - spot on!
I like the fact that you have 'Het melkmeisje' as your wallpaper on your pc. That makes me smile.
Just found your channel and have been binge watching. GREAT STUFF! You have a fantastic delivery, and the content is top notch! Keep 'em coming!!
Wonderful video.
I've just gotten an Orient Bambino to complement my SKN.
Both beautiful pieces that make me very happy. I would love to see your suggestion of a 5/6 watch collection with affordable pieces for a younger audience.
Way of topic but i love your RAN film poster!! Kurosawa is astounding as a director - Seven Samurai is fantastic. Love seeing you back in England. All the best over the Christmas period. Peace n Love
At first I was surprised that my favorite dive watch, the Squale Y1545, was not featured, but then I remember I paid about $600. Just missed the cut off! LOL
Great video as always. It reminded me how much I still want a Glycine Combat Sub. I purchased the golden eye model a year ago and returned it because I was planning on purchasing the Squale Y1545.
Cheers from Chicago!
Peter
Some wonderful choices as always. That Lorier.....so understated.
One that you didn't mention would be the Maen Hudson 38; also it's soon to be discontinued larger sibling, the Hudson 42. Beautiful watches with swiss movements.
Thank you for entertaining video, excellent watches. My favourite micro brand is FORMEX Essence, I love this watch I know it’s not in the theme but I thought I had to mention it. I always look forward to wearing it.sean
I picked up a used Lorier Neptune a few weeks ago, and it really is incredible. I've had several watches with NH35's, but the one in this watch has been running at a really consistent ± 2 seconds a day. When you can get a watch with such a gorgeous original design, spectacular quality, and a movement operating near within COSC for 400$ new (or less if you buy it used like I did) it makes you wonder about the purpose of things like a Black Bay 58.
On a related note, I would love to see a watch duel between the BB58 and the Neptune. It's obviously not a fair fight, but it would be an interesting comparison and I think the Neptune makes a good case for itself.
The purpose of owning a Black Bay is you don't have to roll the dice to own an accurate watch. My Black Bay is consistently around + 3 seconds a MONTH. Cheers
Derek Shearer what’s the big deal with flaunting the accuracy of your Black Bay? I have the BB58 and other way more expensive mechanical watches yet any quartz watch will beat these watches. The purpose of a luxury diver is to flaunt that you are a man of action WITH money to spare and in that aspect, there will always be another guy with more money than you (and me). So let’s take this hobby of ours less seriously please.
@@GabrielTan1980. You didn't get the point l was trying to make and automatically assumed l was flaunting. I would suggest you take your own advice to heart. Cheers and have a great day
Derek Shearer your point is that owning a Black Bay would get you a consistently accurate watch isn’t it? Then get a quartz as that would be more accurate.
@@GabrielTan1980. My point was if you buy a watch with a COSC certification you get +6 to-4 sec a day. If you buy a watch with a NH35 you get a stated accuracy of +40 to-20 a day. Do you see my point now. If you get +5 a day on a NH35 you are super lucky. If you get +5 on a Black bay you are almost out of spec. So when l get +3 sec a day on my Black bay l am very lucky but you are never going to get that on a NH35. I don't own a watch with electronic components. I love the mecanical movements and how human engineering can make something so accurate with ony gears levers and springs. Cheers
Great selection TGV - enjoying closing out the year with your final reviews!
Thank you John, wishing you all the best this holiday season.
Best regards,
TGV
I've got both the Glycine 42mm sub and the Ray II (blue), can definitely vouch for both. I was saddened to see that one of my collection faves wasn't nominated, the Deep Blue Master 1000, but it's not that well known so I'm not surprised, it's a short list after all.
I know WatchBox is cool, but they have a limited library and often times don’t recognize the watches in my collection. Even the most common Swiss watches like a Tag Aquaracer Calibre 5 or Tissot swissmatic.
Cheers to the video and Merry Christmass m8. Have a happy holiday.
Another great report and Happy New Year!
Always a great education from TGV!! Thanks for all you do and Happy Holidays!
4:57 they try to turn their what into a what now? Can you repeat it a few more times, please?
Jokes aside, another excellent video!
😂😂😂
Thank you for watching!
Best regards,
TGV
Thank you for your review always a pleasure.
What did you think of deep blue (dive watches)?
Not watched (groan!) your channel before. I really like your positive presentation style. I'm looking for an inexpensive new watch for 2020, your guide has really helped, thanks!
Fantastic videos really enjoy watching and learning from your channel. Currently wearing my orient ray 2 on my self made paracord black reflective strap.
Thanks TGV love the Channel wishing you and yours all the very best this holiday season, Bob
Thank you Bob,
All the best to you and yours too :D
Best regards,
TGV
So somewhere, in some forum(I don't know where) I read a post talking TGV down, and had a long to a UA-camr "reviewing" the Urban Gentry channel and it's host, TGV. I don't remember his name, and I don't believe his video was designed to send viewers this way(he was opinionated about TGV, and not all nice. He had a similar video about archiluxury guy). But here's the thing. I didn't finish his video. And have since subscribed here. Huh.
Great video, btw.
I keep seeing "Invicta" pop up here in the comments, and I can't tell if people are being serious or saying in jest. But I DO know an NH35-powered Pro Diver(for under $75) is what got a wristwatch back on my wrist.
Great channel. Great vibes, great info.
Happy Christmas!
Ah, I see you're back in England for Christmas! Always great to see a video from your vacation house. I hope you're enjoying your time away, and that you find it relaxing. I wish your family a very happy holidays!
Great video, very interesting reviews. Thank you the posting a wide variety of affordable timepieces.
I'm wearing my Ray 2 right now. Agree with all of the watches except the Lorier. Lorier basically does the same thing Filippo Loreti does. The Seiko movement in that watch is $40 brand new form a reputable jewelery manufacturer and is manufactured in China. Their website tells the same story about bringing value to the masses. I'm not watch snob and do love the way the Neptune looks but for the same price there are likely submariner alternatives options that have more horological punch no? Merry Christmas TGV. Always love your suggestions, videos and overall class.
I love my orient ray 2, it's my first automatic watch and I get so many compliments on it. I'm hoping to change the mineral crystal on it to sapphire when I get the chance. Thanks for the video TGV and Merry Christmas to you!
Thank you very much for this very enjoyable video
that was presented with great thoughtfulness and style.
I'm a sucker for a domed crystal, that Lorier is sharp! Glad Yule to you and yours, TGV.
Geeat great one !
So many amazing watches recommended here
In my opinion the SEIKO SRPB91 is extremely close to looking like a Rolex Submariner. Can you also review the watch it looks like a great watch under $200. Keep up the great videos!
Great Videos and the best watch enthusiast!
Great video ! And oh my... I love your intro.
Love the repeat "turn their passion into a career" at 4:55. I hope you feel you've succeeded, TGV.
TGV! Love the Orient and the Seiko is a given ! Merry Christmas my friend!
Thanks for your video. Right now I’m looking for a diver, case diameter < 40mm, which is a bit difficult to find (no Invicta). However, I came across the Gigandet Sea Ground 100 Vintage, which looks pretty good. What’s your opinion on that piece?
The Steinhart homage watches would certainly be a Bond watch. ETA 2824-2 and a domed plexiglass crystal. The one I have is the Ocean One. A 39mm width. Fantastic.
You should've mentioned the USA line of Orient. I got myself a Mako II USA (non-numeric indices, sapphire glass, hand winding, 120 clicks bezel, etc) for $199 last week! They're on sale for the holidays!
Great job with these affordable gems. Your passion for watches is very cool.
I agree with Timex to pioneer the indiglo with the automatic movement. Even better to link the light to a solar panel. Then you don't have to open the case. Pipedream..
Really original edit, congrats and merry xmas from Spain!
Love your content thanks for helping people out
I love the Orient Ray II. I got the blue dial version with a blue seatbelt NATO and I’m in love. I got a white USA II on the way :)
Great list and so happy to see you include Lorier at #5 (I love my Lorier Falcon). Too bad Squale is just outside the $500 limit to make the list though.
i was going to ask if thats your house because it reminds me of my grandmas lol im from leeds
Man !!! Love this vibe. Like autumn of 2015. Cool