Great review! I love Monta’s designs and finishing, but that price point is just too hard for me to justify for a microbrand. Maybe I’d change my mind if I experienced one in hand.
I truly think Monta has evolved past the limiting designation of "Microbrand". I see them as an independent watchmaker on the same playing field as Oris. I have this model and believe me, once you get it in hand and wear it, you will see why it is $2400.
I typed this out before to another comment but incase it was missed. One of my tests is the "horsey" test. My daughter always rides on my back and I have to crawl on all 4s. Every watch bracelet becomes uncomfortable during this horsey test, except the monta. hahah
The majority of watch reviewers don’t even bring out a timegrapher at all(or maybe even own one!), or even comment on the accuracy of the watch. SO glad you do! Subscribed and liked. Please keep it up👍👍
Monta is great; I bought the Noble and it's probably the most comfortable watch in my collection, and it's very handsome as well. They are good guys too.
I think I prefer the first gen better too. I've never held or seen either in the metal, but the shape of the GMT hand lends a little character, and I feel like the bezel of this new one is a little bigger than the older one, and just doesn't look quite right. If I was to buy one of them today, it would be the 1st gen without a question.
Same here. I think the second gen lacks character and looks overall very generic, not really Monta like. The first one was beautiful and kinda unique in the GMT world. It truly incorporated those Monta design patterns really well and didn’t look like a copy or wannabe Rolex GMT
I agree. They need to offer a combo GMT/dive version. Also, a few more mm in the case would be nice. Now that would get my attention. It’s a shame you don’t find these in dealers to try them on. Heck, that might change my mind and I’ll have to have one of these.
24 hour markers on the dial with a 24 hour bezel allows tracking 3 time zones and it’s omission is a fail, regardless of manufacturer. Seiko gets it right with the SSK, and Oris with the Aquis GMT (also running on the SW-330). The Oris retails for $2800 but can be found new below $2000 all day…with 3 time zone capability. If it’s either/or, I’m going with the Oris.
I had the Monta Atlas, great build quality overall, but 2 things put me off: 1 misalignment, 2 long flat clasp. Looks like they still have these two problems…
Had my heart set on the Noble, and glad I got to try it on in person. Sadly, the lugs were too thick for my taste. If they had been 15-20% slimmer it could have been trouble for my credit card! I think I'm going to wait out for a 36mm Traska
The seconds hand at 5:26 looks to be quite roughly finished. Acceptable for most microbrands imo, but with the price Monta are charging, they really should be doing better.
I noticed that, but I think that might be some funky effect from the video. I have two versions of this watch and I promise they are finished to perfection. I'm sure he would have mentioned it if it was actually finished like that
I like the first gen best but I really want the anthracite noble. I think that and the black slim turtle and my collection would be complete... well might want to get a PRX as well.
@@EscapementWatch been down the road of collecting each style and complication. Had a speedy for a chronograph. Sold it. Had an IWC for a flieger. Sold it. I have decided I am more into sport, dive watches as those get the most wear and I try not to spend more than $2000 on one watch anymore.
No it isn't, just give them the money, super easy! I understand the hold-up, because you can't brag about the brand name since it isn't Rolex, and the resale isn't a sure thing, but honestly, if you like it and keep it, none of that matters. Nobody who isn't into watches knows who Zelos or Christopher Ward are (although Ward picked up a lot of steam with the Bel Canto), but those are two of my favorites in my collection. I didn't spend over $1k for either, but I would love to add a Monta Skyquest GMT V1 to my collection, and it won't be cheap, but it will be worth it!
There is an old saying you get what you pay for, in your opinion what do think this amount of quality is worth? Looking at the quality of a watch would you pay $10k a submariner?
I look at Monta as more of an independent than a microbrand, similar in scope to an Oris. As one who has this same model and other more established brands, doing an apples to apples comparison on features and finishing, the price is in-line and honestly a steal. One must get it in hand to really understand why owners gush over this watch. The finishing is great for the price, the bracelet honestly is better than an Omega and very close to Rolex IMO, it looks great, it's tough. This is wonderful watch and hopefully more people will give Monta a chance instead of just dismissing them.
After wearing the Monta for an extended period then switching to a Rolex you feel the difference. Once Rolex starts to bevel the inner edges of the oyster then I'll give them the top oyster spot again. One of my tests is the "horsey" test. My daughter always rides on my back and I have to crawl on all 4s. Every watch bracelet becomes uncomfortable during this horsey test, except the monta. hahah
The aluminum bezel does look great, but some of us just prefer the virtual unscratchability of the ceramic bezels, not to mention the beautiful high polish.
Debating between a used Black Bay and upcoming Oceanking - Tudor has Monta beat on the movement, maybe the bezel action too. Comes down to bracelet and finishing.
Monta has better finishing on the hands and bracelet. Case pretty close maybe Monta again here. Dial indices same, nothing really stood out to me as different between the 2. Need to handle a lot more of both brands to give you a better answer sorry! But although Monta gets the win it is pretty comparable and close. I will be reviewing an ALL NEW GINAULT Secret project in about 6 months after my Ocean Rover 2 review which should be in a month or 2.
Nice.. But the watch industry is only evolving in finishing not technology like poverty reserve or materials (titanium, carbon fiber, recycled materials , etc).. Thats why change to solar power systems in titanium. With that prices you are paying for the logo status and marketing
I found SkyQuest V2 to be deeply disappointing compared to the original. Everything about it that made it unique to them, all of their signature design cues, all gone. Their excuse is that it's more "streamlined" and "simple." Ok. Also seems cost cut to hell. That lovely inner bevel on the lugs that transitioned to the end link that's on all other Montas? Gone. Now it's just a straight cut, like any watch. Sure feels like cost cutting. Those gorgeous, Monta signature waterfall hour markers? Gone. Now they're just flat blocks. No bevels, no mixed finishes, nothin'. Zero effort on design. Sure feels like cost cutting. The model specific, custom printed rehaut with the cuts that the markers fit into, another Monta design signature? That would have to be very carefully aligned in production. That has to be expensive. Gone. Now it's a $5 steel ring that you can just plonk on there. It literally can't be misaligned. You lose the third timezone, but who cares? Sure feels like cost cutting. I bet with all of those expensive features cut out, they must've dropped the price quite a bit, right? Considering the watch now *looks* like it costs half what the old one did, it would only be logical that they do a major price drop. Oh the price actually went *up* several hundred dollars. Yeah.... Aside from all of that, the proportions are just bizarre. They could've printed a 24 hour scale on the dial to keep the third timezone, but that would've required a dial size bigger than a penny, and a bezel size smaller than a monster truck tire. Compared to the Aquitaine GMT which is $800 less than this? Pretty much the same features, same movement, same lack of decoration on the movement other than the rotor, and Chris Ward put *more* effort into their hour markers than Monta did (read: none)? I don't understand why you buy this. Yes Monta's bracelet is better than CW's. Is it $800 better? No it's not. I've had both. This is a $1,200 watch with a $500 bracelet. That's what it should cost. When these are $1400 on the secondary market, then maybe.
Monta is okay, discovered them through a Instagram ad. Gave them a chance with an Atlas and sold it. This one looks cool and so was the Atlas but the more I wore it the more it left so much to be desired, sort of how you out wear an Orient and just give or sell it away. Maybe if they were more in the realm of Hamilton Khaki watches I’d consider again. I mean when you get at that price range and you’re willing to drop that amount, your options sort of open up to other brands, some way better than Monta.
I would love to hear what is" way better" than the Monta at this price, not $1500 more like a Tudor, (which I hear all the time) but at the $2500 level for brand new watch.
@@dorningartsTag, Breitling, GS, CW, Ginault, Longines, Oris, etc. I haven’t even gone into pre-owned/ used but new watches. You can get some entry level Omegas at almost the same prices.
@@SilentCanary Ha! Show me the $2500 GS!!! Or Breitling!! I have an Oris, and had a Monta, Monta is a LOT better finished. Show me the Tag for $2500, not a quartz one but an automatic. Longines is the only one close on your list, and the Monta has a far better bracelet. By the way the lowest priced GS is $4000!
I think unless you get lucky that you get what you pay for. That second hand is unacceptable. I would have to return the watch. I have also had Tudor's that have had QC problems and have been returned. My IWC pilot watch though is perfect. No way I'd spend 2400 plus tax on a micro brand. If you want a nice watch, save up and get one.
The second hand is only visible under extreme macro and Ginault offered to replace it for free but I declined because it's impossible to see unless I pull out my professional grade lenses and a ton of light.
hahah what watches do you own because I can pretty much guarantee, if you lend them to me I can find issues with them. Many Rolex's i found tons of dust and scratches on the gold indices...you just need the right lens :P
Honestly I think microbrand is the wrong term for Monta, independent is more appropriate, along the same lines as Oris. For an Oris, I bet many wouldn't think twice about $2400. As one who has this watch, and other more established brands, doing an apples to apples comparison to others, the price is not only in line but a steal.
Check out the *MONTA NOBLE REVIEW HERE* : ua-cam.com/video/xu-kCA4TQnA/v-deo.html
Great review! I love Monta’s designs and finishing, but that price point is just too hard for me to justify for a microbrand. Maybe I’d change my mind if I experienced one in hand.
The quality is right there with other swiss made legacy brands. The bracelet is probably the best OYSTER in the watch world when it comes to comfort.
My exact same thought, they are online only though. That's a shame
I truly think Monta has evolved past the limiting designation of "Microbrand". I see them as an independent watchmaker on the same playing field as Oris. I have this model and believe me, once you get it in hand and wear it, you will see why it is $2400.
@@EscapementWatch that’s extremely high praise! I’m a fan of bracelets, so that sounds very tempting.
I typed this out before to another comment but incase it was missed. One of my tests is the "horsey" test. My daughter always rides on my back and I have to crawl on all 4s. Every watch bracelet becomes uncomfortable during this horsey test, except the monta. hahah
Great to see you show different positions on the timegrapher. Not many UA-cam watch reviewers do so thank u for that
The majority of watch reviewers don’t even bring out a timegrapher at all(or maybe even own one!), or even comment on the accuracy of the watch. SO glad you do! Subscribed and liked. Please keep it up👍👍
Monta is great; I bought the Noble and it's probably the most comfortable watch in my collection, and it's very handsome as well. They are good guys too.
Oh yeah I would love a Noble in 36 mm with a decorated Chronometer movement that would be awesome 👍
I think I prefer the first gen better too. I've never held or seen either in the metal, but the shape of the GMT hand lends a little character, and I feel like the bezel of this new one is a little bigger than the older one, and just doesn't look quite right. If I was to buy one of them today, it would be the 1st gen without a question.
Same here. I think the second gen lacks character and looks overall very generic, not really Monta like. The first one was beautiful and kinda unique in the GMT world. It truly incorporated those Monta design patterns really well and didn’t look like a copy or wannabe Rolex GMT
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! For putting the dial size measurements in your video. For me, that matters more than the actual case size.
Thanks for showing the timegrapher in your reviews.
You lost me on the price but she’s a real beauty
I agree. They need to offer a combo GMT/dive version. Also, a few more mm in the case would be nice. Now that would get my attention. It’s a shame you don’t find these in dealers to try them on. Heck, that might change my mind and I’ll have to have one of these.
24 hour markers on the dial with a 24 hour bezel allows tracking 3 time zones and it’s omission is a fail, regardless of manufacturer. Seiko gets it right with the SSK, and Oris with the Aquis GMT (also running on the SW-330). The Oris retails for $2800 but can be found new below $2000 all day…with 3 time zone capability. If it’s either/or, I’m going with the Oris.
I had the Monta Atlas, great build quality overall, but 2 things put me off: 1 misalignment, 2 long flat clasp. Looks like they still have these two problems…
The clasp has been updated it's a curve now
I feel as though they missed an opportunity for the bent gmt hand to become a signature detail in this line.
Agreed and this is my daily watch
Had my heart set on the Noble, and glad I got to try it on in person. Sadly, the lugs were too thick for my taste. If they had been 15-20% slimmer it could have been trouble for my credit card! I think I'm going to wait out for a 36mm Traska
The noble is amazing. I would love a 36 mm version.
I like this design and the monta quality. On the other hand i wish they had kept the old gmt design.
The seconds hand at 5:26 looks to be quite roughly finished. Acceptable for most microbrands imo, but with the price Monta are charging, they really should be doing better.
I noticed that, but I think that might be some funky effect from the video. I have two versions of this watch and I promise they are finished to perfection.
I'm sure he would have mentioned it if it was actually finished like that
I like the first gen best but I really want the anthracite noble. I think that and the black slim turtle and my collection would be complete... well might want to get a PRX as well.
well after the maybe PRX... don't forget to add a Flieger hahah
@@EscapementWatch been down the road of collecting each style and complication. Had a speedy for a chronograph. Sold it. Had an IWC for a flieger. Sold it. I have decided I am more into sport, dive watches as those get the most wear and I try not to spend more than $2000 on one watch anymore.
I love the white dial SkyQuest so much!! I want one so bad, but it’s hard to spend over $2k on a microbrand :/
No it isn't, just give them the money, super easy! I understand the hold-up, because you can't brag about the brand name since it isn't Rolex, and the resale isn't a sure thing, but honestly, if you like it and keep it, none of that matters. Nobody who isn't into watches knows who Zelos or Christopher Ward are (although Ward picked up a lot of steam with the Bel Canto), but those are two of my favorites in my collection. I didn't spend over $1k for either, but I would love to add a Monta Skyquest GMT V1 to my collection, and it won't be cheap, but it will be worth it!
Monta is more like an independent watchbrand like Oris. I believe they've moved past the microbrand designation.
There is an old saying you get what you pay for, in your opinion what do think this amount of quality is worth? Looking at the quality of a watch would you pay $10k a submariner?
I look at Monta as more of an independent than a microbrand, similar in scope to an Oris. As one who has this same model and other more established brands, doing an apples to apples comparison on features and finishing, the price is in-line and honestly a steal. One must get it in hand to really understand why owners gush over this watch. The finishing is great for the price, the bracelet honestly is better than an Omega and very close to Rolex IMO, it looks great, it's tough. This is wonderful watch and hopefully more people will give Monta a chance instead of just dismissing them.
After wearing the Monta for an extended period then switching to a Rolex you feel the difference. Once Rolex starts to bevel the inner edges of the oyster then I'll give them the top oyster spot again. One of my tests is the "horsey" test. My daughter always rides on my back and I have to crawl on all 4s. Every watch bracelet becomes uncomfortable during this horsey test, except the monta. hahah
What kind of vintage Watch do you wear in the beginning of the video? I like it a lot.
King Seiko 56KS Ref# 5625-7041
@@EscapementWatch Thank you!
The aluminum bezel does look great, but some of us just prefer the virtual unscratchability of the ceramic bezels, not to mention the beautiful high polish.
Amazing review!
Debating between a used Black Bay and upcoming Oceanking - Tudor has Monta beat on the movement, maybe the bezel action too. Comes down to bracelet and finishing.
How does Monta finishing compare to Ginault?
Monta has better finishing on the hands and bracelet. Case pretty close maybe Monta again here. Dial indices same, nothing really stood out to me as different between the 2. Need to handle a lot more of both brands to give you a better answer sorry! But although Monta gets the win it is pretty comparable and close. I will be reviewing an ALL NEW GINAULT Secret project in about 6 months after my Ocean Rover 2 review which should be in a month or 2.
How does the Monta build quality compare to the Ginault?
In short: Monta superior on the hands and the bracelet. But overall they are both very close.
love it
Nice.. But the watch industry is only evolving in finishing not technology like poverty reserve or materials (titanium, carbon fiber, recycled materials , etc).. Thats why change to solar power systems in titanium.
With that prices you are paying for the logo status and marketing
I found SkyQuest V2 to be deeply disappointing compared to the original. Everything about it that made it unique to them, all of their signature design cues, all gone. Their excuse is that it's more "streamlined" and "simple." Ok. Also seems cost cut to hell. That lovely inner bevel on the lugs that transitioned to the end link that's on all other Montas? Gone. Now it's just a straight cut, like any watch. Sure feels like cost cutting. Those gorgeous, Monta signature waterfall hour markers? Gone. Now they're just flat blocks. No bevels, no mixed finishes, nothin'. Zero effort on design. Sure feels like cost cutting. The model specific, custom printed rehaut with the cuts that the markers fit into, another Monta design signature? That would have to be very carefully aligned in production. That has to be expensive. Gone. Now it's a $5 steel ring that you can just plonk on there. It literally can't be misaligned. You lose the third timezone, but who cares? Sure feels like cost cutting.
I bet with all of those expensive features cut out, they must've dropped the price quite a bit, right? Considering the watch now *looks* like it costs half what the old one did, it would only be logical that they do a major price drop. Oh the price actually went *up* several hundred dollars. Yeah.... Aside from all of that, the proportions are just bizarre. They could've printed a 24 hour scale on the dial to keep the third timezone, but that would've required a dial size bigger than a penny, and a bezel size smaller than a monster truck tire.
Compared to the Aquitaine GMT which is $800 less than this? Pretty much the same features, same movement, same lack of decoration on the movement other than the rotor, and Chris Ward put *more* effort into their hour markers than Monta did (read: none)? I don't understand why you buy this. Yes Monta's bracelet is better than CW's. Is it $800 better? No it's not. I've had both. This is a $1,200 watch with a $500 bracelet. That's what it should cost. When these are $1400 on the secondary market, then maybe.
Monta is a Rolex homage, theRolex of microbrand is Halios
For that price.. that’s a pass for me. Beautiful watch! I just think with that movement, you can get something cheaper. Maybe a Christopher Ward.
I dont see the brand appeal or movement quality for the asking price. 🤔
Monta is okay, discovered them through a Instagram ad. Gave them a chance with an Atlas and sold it. This one looks cool and so was the Atlas but the more I wore it the more it left so much to be desired, sort of how you out wear an Orient and just give or sell it away. Maybe if they were more in the realm of Hamilton Khaki watches I’d consider again. I mean when you get at that price range and you’re willing to drop that amount, your options sort of open up to other brands, some way better than Monta.
I would love to hear what is" way better" than the Monta at this price, not $1500 more like a Tudor, (which I hear all the time) but at the $2500 level for brand new watch.
@@dorningartsTag, Breitling, GS, CW, Ginault, Longines, Oris, etc. I haven’t even gone into pre-owned/ used but new watches. You can get some entry level Omegas at almost the same prices.
@@SilentCanary Ha! Show me the $2500 GS!!! Or Breitling!! I have an Oris, and had a Monta, Monta is a LOT better finished. Show me the Tag for $2500, not a quartz one but an automatic. Longines is the only one close on your list, and the Monta has a far better bracelet. By the way the lowest priced GS is $4000!
@@SilentCanary Ginault is close in finishing, (Monta is still better)I had one and sold it right away, the text on the dial was absurd
@@SilentCanary Please list the entry level Omega for $2500, (new, not used which is not a comparison)
I think unless you get lucky that you get what you pay for. That second hand is unacceptable. I would have to return the watch. I have also had Tudor's that have had QC problems and have been returned. My IWC pilot watch though is perfect. No way I'd spend 2400 plus tax on a micro brand. If you want a nice watch, save up and get one.
The second hand is only visible under extreme macro and Ginault offered to replace it for free but I declined because it's impossible to see unless I pull out my professional grade lenses and a ton of light.
@@EscapementWatch I'm too OCD for that kind of rationalization to work on me! haha!
hahah what watches do you own because I can pretty much guarantee, if you lend them to me I can find issues with them. Many Rolex's i found tons of dust and scratches on the gold indices...you just need the right lens :P
$2500 for a micro brand?! 😂😂😂
You have to pay for quality and probably the most comfortable OYSTER bracelet in the watch world.
Well worth it.
Honestly I think microbrand is the wrong term for Monta, independent is more appropriate, along the same lines as Oris. For an Oris, I bet many wouldn't think twice about $2400. As one who has this watch, and other more established brands, doing an apples to apples comparison to others, the price is not only in line but a steal.
so your telling me that seikos NH move ments are as good as a swiss elabore for pennies on the dollar ..... NICE ! based on se conds per day test
Good looking watch but the price is a huge no no.