Unless you travel in a circle of other watch geeks, absolutely NOBODY is going to care, or even notice, what kind of watch you're wearing; much less even know it was an homage. How many non-watch enthusiasts could name even ONE luxury watch brand besides Rolex? How many could name even a SINGLE Rolex model? I'll bet that a great many Submariner homage owners have no idea that their watch is a copycat. They just bought it because it looks cool. And that's totally fine. For someone to sneer at anyone else for wearing an homage watch is so self-aggrandizing, it's nauseating.
Amen to that, I get so many comments from non-camera people on my Fujifilm asking if it's a Leica... it's always amusing when I say no, it's like the name means more than the object :))
Ya, I think "watch guys" forget that no one but them knows what any Rolex watches look like. Everyone has heard of them, but they will only think you own one if they see Rolex written on it
Michael Horn So the moral of the story is buy what you like. Whatever that is or what Michael Horn thinks of it. As long as it makes YOU happy. Who gives a fuck what anyone else thinks??
I could not agree more, this is perhaps the most important thing one can take away from my channel and I am so happy you agree, thank you! Best regards, TGV
I agree.....its homage watches that have made me a collector....If I bought a Rolex or Omega,it would be the ONLY watch I could afford to own .....My favorite daily wear watch is a Cadisen 1032 Seiko NH36 movement sapphire crystal and about $55 dollars American.....how can you go wrong
I love watches and it's definitely within my means to have perhaps a Rolex or Omega. But what gives me even more enjoyment is to spend my money on the happiness of my family. So if it's a choice between me watching my daughter at the local dance school with a Rolex on my wrist, and my daughter going to the Royal Ballet School in Richmond while I wear a Parnis...... Parnis wins every time.
Obviously you have something money can’t buy and most men are struggling to find a woman who’s not materialistic or attention seeking and big into social media who can actually make you happy and help raise your children correct, as a young man that’s what we can’t find in my generation that’s got to be worth more than any watch
I think something like a Submariner is so iconic that buying an homage is analogous to buying a print of something like "Starry Night". For some amount of money you could get the original painting, but for a very large majority of people that's just never going to be something they can or want to do. A lot of people really enjoy the design itself though and own prints of it or other recreations that are faithful to the original. As long as you're not pretending it's the original van Gogh, but actually just an expression of your love for a classic design then I think it's great.
@@johnluke5478 I think it would be a valid argument if it was working correctly. It's a turd (have on at the wrist atm). Looks great though. I would tend to Steinhart too.
Homages are everywhere. Doesn't mean they're fake. Every M Package BMW and every AMG design Mercedes are basically homages. I don't see people complaining there. :)
Lorenzo he doesn’t talk people out of buying homage watches. He takes 5 points from forums and debunks them. At the end of the vid he says “perhaps there is a reason not to buy homage watches, but I can’t think of one.”
So why not buy what you want? Isn't this a hobby? This is a debate not worth having. People should purchase what they are comfortable with and enjoy the purchase. Enjoy watches of all brands and types!
E Larson I agree with you 100 %. I have some invictas myself. I got buddies that have them too and some of them get the crazy looking ones. That I would not were. But I don’t judge them. I’m happy that they enjoy them.
E Larson i mean i really want an Audemars Piguet royal oak concept but i don’t have $220,000 bucks just laying in some sock drawer, and last time I checked AP doesn’t take monopoly money
Star Trek Theory you miss the point. It’s ok if you feel that way for yourself. Not everybody can afford a expensive watch. So if someone wants to wear a so called goofy watch. They should go right ahead.
Star Trek Theory well since you wish you could socially enforce standards I’ll take your cue. You should really proofread your comments before you share them.
Thank You for your video. I am a 47 year old Hispanic-American man, living in Los Angeles and I confess I have been a fool. For the last 20 years my everyday watch has been a steel grey timepiece, I earned from a company as a prize for winning a sales contest in my youth. About 15 years ago, a friend traveled overseas and brought me a gift, a "FAKE ROLEX", that I understood was a good quality replica. The problem is, that as much as I loved looking at the fake, I felt a bit guilty inside, like a hypocrite or a fake person. I kept it for about 6 mos, when a coworker who by his own words "was fake" offered me a few bucks for it, and I got rid of that guilty hot potato. I told my friend about it, and he felt I was overthinking the entire experience, but was OK that I got rid of it. That fake timepiece began my obsession with Rolex, and I have since visited their website, and the Rolex store countless of times, but I never made a purchase. Until this day, I believe the Rolex Submariner is a thing of human perfection, and I truly appreciate them for what they do. However, I decided many years ago that I would more than likely (will never say never) not own a Rolex, simply because the cost is too high and I am too practical to spend my hard earned money that way. The problem was however, that I also never purchased any watch because the look I love is the submariner, and I felt so guilty with the fake that I was unable to reconcile the decision. I cousin of mine who has a different money philosophy then my own, did buy a Rolex, and made a comment that all homage watches are "unoriginal copycats not worth a cent". For many years I never bought a watch, because I cared too much what others thought about the issue. A few recent experiences changed my mind, and your video just confirmed to me that for many years I have been wrong. The first experience was the loss of my father, and the understanding that he never left me a Rolex, but I do treasure his classic Seiko as something very special to me. The second experience was my wife giving birth to a beautiful daughter, making me a dad. I kept thinking, I may not own a Rolex but at this pace I may not even have a Seiko to leave to my daughter. The final experience came when my wife decided to purchase an Invicta #26970 for my birthday, because she remembered how I love Rolex but refuse to wear a fake. These three experiences combined to help me change my mind about homage watches. I was visiting a car museum in Los Angeles (The Nethercutt Collection) when I read how prior to Henry Ford with his model-T mass produced assembly line vehicle, only the rich tended to purchase vehicles that were mostly custom made. It wasn't until Henry Ford came up with his cheap homage to transportation, that our world as we know it changed for the better. It made me see that the wealthy, elite, and rich of the world have every right to enjoy the finer things in life, but I too should not deprive myself of something that brings me happiness with in my own financial limitations or self imposed budget. I still love Rolex, but I realized that if I buy the classic submariner, I would soon get bored and want the second color, and third, and fourth; creating in me an unhealthy obsession for material things, and depriving me of my personal happiness. This week I finally did it. I ordered the various other colors of the Invicta watch my wife purchased, and I ordered a few display boxes to keep them in. I now own a simple collection of 10 watches (about $50 each on sale), and I must admit they make me so happy to wear them and look at them. I made a decision by purchasing 3 12 watch leather display cases, to make more purchases of timepieces that I hope will bring me some happiness in the years ahead. I only knew of Invicta, when I discovered your channel. I love your videos, and with your help I will make more well researched, better watch purchases in the future. I love the Invicta, but I have 26 empty slots (my 3 display cases) to fill in the years to come, and I plan to give other reasonable priced watch brands a try. I will continue to watch your videos for inspiration. Thank you for helping me see that I was wrong to deprive myself of a small measure of happiness, just because of what "The Commitee of THEY" might think. My collection consists of of seven Invictas, one Seiko (my dads) and one company gifted steel watch that will remain as my first watch. I look forward to making intentional, well researched purchases within my budget in the years to come, and becoming a novice watch enthusiast. Yes I said it, I am a watch enthusiast in the making, within reason. Thanks for your help. CB
My pro diver was great. I had it about 3 years. The invicta logo detached from the face. I left it on a bench at the bus stop in front of my building. I have a Steinhart ocean 1 now. I love it.
I own a Rolex, Tudor and brietling, but my everyday watch and actual dive watch is a STEINHART. Been wearing this watch for 8yrs and dive at least twice a month with this watch. It's been bullet proof for me, maybe I just got lucky, but don't think so. Great watch, great customer service, will be buying another FOR SURE.
And that's why you can afford a Rolex, Tudor and Breitling: cause you're not a friggin idiot! Unless you poop gold bars, you really shouldn't be diving in a Rolex. I could slave off for a while and buy me that one, but I want a diver to take to the beach, and I realise I cannot really afford to take a Rolex there. Just because you can save up for the sum price of an object doesn't mean you really can afford it. Many people forget that.
It's something that some people can't accept a homage. There are 2 specific watches I'd love have but due to my job not paying me Rolex or Omega paychecks I look at what's realistic for me. I have no problem wearing a watch that resembles either of those brands, because at the end of the day, it isn't about saving for a 6000+ $ watch, it's about saving for me and my family.
Njama Jones your better off not buying any of those brands and getting more for your money. There's other watches out there that are just as good at half the price or even more. Some of these watches your paying a couple thousand dollars extra just for the name on the dial.
So true. I make rolex and omega paycheck but choose to save it i like watches and appreciate the craftsmanship but at the end of the day a watch is a watch
Njama Jones I don’t understand why getting something similar when you know it isn’t the same, when you could buy something that is cheaper but ya it’s own personality
It's simple, but your snobbery blinds you to it. People get those watches because they like that style. It's as simple as that. They could get something different but that wouldn't be the style they like. They like they style but they either can't afford (and never will be able to) or are mature and smart enough to realize spending luxury watch money is a wasteful extravagance that could be put to better uses. Look- I own a Rolex and a couple of Omegas, but I can understand why someone would buy a homage.
If I see someone wearing a Rolex I invariably imagine that it’s been bought as a status symbol. Which is perfectly fine btw. If I see someone wearing a Steinhart I think ah.......must be a watch enthusiast. Who else but an enthusiast would go to the trouble of discovering Steinhart and acquiring one. Or indeed any other good quality so called homage watch.
I like the way you think. Somewhat similar to that saying about Grand Seiko. "You buy a Rolex to impress other people. You buy a Grand Seiko to impress yourself."
I somewhat agree with you. I’m a Rolex fan, and have a couple, but I don’t like them because they might impress people. I think gold and diamond watches do that more. I appreciate the history of the brand and the heritage of particular pieces. I am a genuine enthusiast and I love me a good longines or Oris.
I don’t judge people who buy homages. I bought several myself. Now, I know it's not for me. But in the end of the day, what really matters is wearing the watch we love, no matter what others are thinking of it.
Gunter Steinhart said " I want to make a watch at an honest price and high quality" . He has definitely done that. 316L steel, ETA swiss movements, Sapphire Crystal, AR blue coating, great machined bracelet, solid Bezels, 300m WR.... what more can you ask from a $500 watch? I own a few high end brand watches and have added a Steinhart OVM 39mm to my collection. The Steiny never leaves my wrist funnily. It really makes me question why you would pay more money for other watches with same specs? That said im not a big fan of direct style copy cats, the OVM model was an exception for me as I love the MilSub style and it's a watch I will never own. End of the day it's your watch, if it makes you happy wearing it, if it gives you joy every time you look at it that's all that matters. Buying a watch or anything else for that matter just to impress others is a miserable hobby. I think it was Madonna who said, "poor is the man, who's pleasure depends on the permission of another"
I've got two lovely Steinhart watches, costing about €1400 for the pair. Swiss movements, accurate and looks good to me. I wear one for work, that I can ding, scratch and scrape and one for sipping Singapore slings in Raffles. If I win the lottery, I may buy a Explorer II on the way to the Mercedes garage, but until then i'm sticking with what I like and afford. I have a deep suspicion that the increase in price for basic Rolex watches has nothing to do with the extra build quality of the watch and everything to do with the blanket sponsorship and marketing bills.
It was an Invicta that got me into homages when I bought it as a daily alternative to my Seamaster. Since then I've bought a few. Latest arrived today...Rolex Explorer homage by Parnis from Aliexpress.....excellent.
I always wanted a Subby, decided on my last B-Day I was never gonna get there. I bought a Pro-Diver for 90 bucks. Good to 2/3rds the depth of a Rolly, with an excellent bracelet, and a display back. The Seiko movement is about 2:45 seconds slow in a month. This watch, which I got delivered to my house within a coupe days of ordering (Rolex has a long waiting list) Is literally almost as good as a Submariner, but cost 1/150th as much. And now that I've had it awhile--and I can't believe I'm saying this--but I have actually grown to like the looks of the Invicta over the Rolex. Sorry, everybody, but I guess I'm a cretin.
Invicta is actually an older company than Rolex and I understand the people that own Invicta now are not the original owners. But I'm pretty sure that Rolex probably ripped off some of their things from the original Invicta
@@TheRealDrJoey the way I look at it ,how can you go wrong with a robust seiko movement.i like the glass back as well so you can see the movement. For the price as well ,invicta all the way.
I have a Seiko S wave orange face, my brother’s Gold Seiko he left me when he passed, My fathers 1981 Rolex I kept when he passed, and I have two Invictas recently bought. I get more compliments on the Invictas, maybe because they are 45mm, and they look better on my large wrist, or the faces. My UPS driver is a huge Invicta collector, he likes the 50 mm and up which I think is too large, but still looks good. My friend in LA is a huge watch collector of Rolex, Omega, etc, and even though he wouldn’t buy one, he likes my Invictas. Like it was said, it’s what you enjoy. Cars are the same way. A lot of us can’t run out and buy a Tesla, but we could get a four-year-old infinity and still get compliments.
Great video! ... I am an retired soldier turned watchmaker and I routinely work on movements from 19th Century pocket watches to modern automatics on my own UA-cam channel. I love Rolex, I love Jaeger Le Coultre, I love Richard Mille, I love the higher end Waltham and Elgin Pocket Watches, I love Roamer and Certina, I love Longines ... but I also love Invicta and Steinhart. Barring 'nasty' fake watches ... its all good. I love my Invictas with the Seiko NH35A! Long live Homage ... Long live Luxury! It's all good! :)
@Ocean Summit as someone else said somewhere else in the comments section it was invicta that ignited my interest in watches. I have a number of vintage 60s and 70s automatics, two invictas, and have just got my first microbrand watch, a precista aerotimer. Beautiful watch that I am very impressed with. I had the money for either a tudor or a speedmaster but after looking at them both preferred the aerotimer and bought it for a fraction if the big name brands.
Swatch, Guess and Invicta got me into my love for watches... I don't see anything wrong in wearing homage watches. Wear what you like and live within your means...
Wear what you like and live within your means... Exactly as I feel and think. Why spend all your time and resources trying to save for a watch you don't really need to make you happy. There are so many other nice things and experiences to be had in life that a watch isn't that important in the whole scheme of things. Life is for living, not worrying what other people think of your worth or values by what you have on your wrist. Live and enjoy life first. If you can afford to buy your dream watch as well, that's a bonus but not essential.
This guy is someone where the saying “Don’t judge a book by its cover” comes into play because while he would at first glance seem like a watch snob, watching his videos and seeing how humble he is and how he can see the joy and fun of getting into the watch game just make the videos all the more enjoyable and I can’t stop myself from watching. Truly extravagant that how that one characteristic can make or break his videos. I love em’!
Exactly why I subscribed to this gentleman. He presents his perspective courteously. He is really wants people to be interested in the wonderful world of horology and it shows with his open-mindedness.
Very accurate. TGV could be sipping rice tea while reading a leather bound Jules Verne novel with Italian opera playing in the background and on his wrist.....a $25 Casio. All gentleman, zero snobbery.
In the end, every single wrist watch sold today, ALL of them, are homage watches. Someone did the first wrist watch, and everyone else followed suit. It's just fact. You gotta work with what you got. If you can't afford a Rolex, but you like the design, then you buy whatever other brand looks like it, and fits your budget, and there is absolutely NO shame in that. Just don't buy a watch that pretends to be something it's not. Don't buy something that says Rolex on the dial, but it really isn't. Not only would that be illegal in most places, but that is also really where i feel a hard line should be drawn.
Like musicians borrowing from classic songs, watches can only have so many "original" design cues. If you love it, wear it. A watch should make you happy when you see it on your wrist. If it also gets a few compliments, all the better.
I agree for the most part. Take the Invicta Pro Diver featured in this video, for example. I actually appreciate all of the branding Invicta slathered onto that piece. It makes no secrets whatsoever about what it really is. But then, did they really have to go so far as to copy even the "Mercedes" hands, and the cyclops lens? Most diver-style watches are inherently similar-looking. But there are certain details that just go too far; that would make me feel that I was in, fact, just wearing a "cheap copy." Most of my watches actually are SUPER cheap, but I try to find ones that aren't blatant copies of more famous designs.
HELLO I have ten invicta watches and my wife has six, for the past 12 years they have all worked perfect,half are made in japan automatic movements,, all the watch cases are to this day perfect ,we love our invictas !
@@Gasta1983 Ah. Thx. I think I see how they could be worse, considering the way wine is at times presented - as a refined drink for connoisseurs. A snob there would certainly be (even more) annoying. Well, there are snobs for every thing under the sun, right ?
I know what you mean. My aunt is a wine snob. She is very particular about the wine she orders from restaurants. Especially when the bottle was opened. She won't drink wine that's been opened for more than a few days.
As someone new to watches and have financial responsibility, cost is driving what I can buy and how much. I think some watch people forget that. My friend loves his Invicta and I love my skx. Could we afford better, not now. Hopefully later. So relax people and let the people wear what they want, and you own them politness. I tell everyone the same thing. "I like your watch" and listen to the story. It more fun that way.
Ken Shearson I think people judge others quickly by what they think they know. I wear my skx because I cannot afford right now the Tudor or marathon watch I am lusting after. I real enjoy watches and I like to make the point ever so often that the choice of a cheaper watch was not ignorance but pocket book. And this is why I like the TGV, his joy for a Seiko made me get into watches.
@YouAllJackasses fair play, thats all good for you and others, great. My current watch cost just over a months salary (no date sub, new) but i aspire to soon own the platinum day date. If all other things are taken care of - to a nice standard, i see no problem in spending what it costs to get what i want - in my humble opinion, we should all aspire to achieve what we want, it makes us perform and move forward.
I bought an Invicta Pro Diver today! Its my first automatic and it seemed like the most bang for my buck. I freekin love it. I may buy another out of spite. It aint but $85. 🤷🏽♂️
You could argue that the Invicta ProDiver is starting to grow its own meaningful story among enthusiasts - as it's often used as an example for different reasons. I'll probably buy some real icons soon, but my Invicta was a great start into the topic, and I like both its conflicted story and the fact that I used it 24/7 during my last holiday.
I've been a Rolex owner for 26 years. I have no problems with homages and even bought a Steinhart Ocean One Titanium as a beater a year ago. Fantastic value for money. I'd even go as far as to say that a Steinhart Premium is closer to a Tudor Black Bay than a Tudor is to a Rolex Sub. THAT pisses Tudor people off. It's still true...
I wear an Invicta pro diver, because I don't have $6000+ laying around just to spend on a single watch. Even if I did, I would not wear a watch that expensive.
Glycine also came out with a water resistant watch in 1953 that had numbers on a rotating bezel. It also tracked multiple time zones. Rolex did it a year later with the GMT. Both Glycine and Rolex did what others have done and build on an existing knowledge base. We could argue if James Bond had wore a Glycine, the fortunes and perceptions of these companies would be very different today.
Chris Sullins absolutely. Rolex have simply capitalised on Visual Marketing. Very handsomely. They are beautiful too but, nowhere near worth the money.
I love my black dial/ceramic bezel Steinhart Ocean One! It's absolutely gorgeous, runs extremely well, goes with everything and is tough as a tank. I was initially fascinated by the Rolex Sub but would never want to spend that kind of money on a watch, much less $600 for a service. The Ocean One allows me to enjoy the design beauty/genious of the sub without the financial wallop. At first Ithought I woud feel like a poser sporting a watch that looks so much like the sub but the reality is that I'm proud it's a Steinhart. I completely understand this perspective isn't for everyone!
I prefer my Steinhart 39 GMT Ceramic to my Omegas, Tag Heuers, and Seiko/Orients. It has the Swiss quality and precision, without the worry of an expensive watch. It currently runs at +1s/day, and even though it's an homage watch, it is still my favorite looking watch. Instead of spending $20,000 on a GMT Master II Black, I rather purchase investments or take several incredible trips with my wife while wearing an affordable homage watch AKA the Steinhart.
Homage watches, especially those made in Asia are great alternative for less economically developed countries. For many getting even a Ginault or Steinhart is an achievement like a Royal Oak or Explorer is for us, and i think we should as a community understand that differences. Also we should not forget that even in cheapest watches there was point in time when somebody took his own effort to put a heart and soul into those gears and made them running. The world does not end on Rolex. :)
You know, I’ve had my Invicta Pro Diver 8929OB for about 4 months now, and I love it. Very high quality piece, quality finish, and a smooth reliable movement. I don’t want to have to spend an arm and a leg to get a Submariner-esque watch when I can spend $100 on an automatic dive watch that does what I need and looks the part. So homage watches have their place. There’s nothing wrong with them.
I have an older 8929OB from when the NH25 movement was being installed from the factory, and it keeps great time and looks consistently amazing! The blue dial changes all sorts of shades of blue and purple. Wear it in good health!
Absolutely true. I own the Invicta 8927OB and the Invicta 8928OB Pro Diver watches and they are great watches which I really enjoy wearing more than my more expensive pieces. They have a good Seiko movement which is reliable.
I agree with 90% of what you said in this video. The only thing is that in my personal experience I don’t think it’s always about buying a homage to replace the love for an expensive watch. I own an invicta pro diver and love it, and if I had my choice of Rolex it would be the GMT or Explorer not a sub mariner. My reason for buying the invicta was mainly what you get for the money, and it’s a GREAT entry level diver. Besides the company name is stamped all over it (unlike a bootleg Rolex). Again, I agree with you to a point. I think that as long as it’s not an exact replica or bootleg, copying a style is fine by me. Just my opinion...
Tempo Nelson .. Invicta got hooked on watches back in the Shopnbc days y'all remember that?!? I must have purchased aver a hundred of them... I sold all but 10 of them and they all still run! I still wear them in my rotation and I don't feel bad about it because they are now rare! I'll have a vintage Omega on a nato one day and the next I'm rocking a meteor dial with polished bracelet and case and you better believe I get those compliments... I love them!
It could be easy for someone to misjudged you when glancing at one of you review videos. But videos like this show your true heart and nature and what a genuine person you are. Well done.
I just bought a “Pepsi” Steinhart Ocean 39 Vintage for about $700.00 direct from Steinhart. I travel. I did not own a GMT. I LOVE watches and I particularly love “Bang for the Buck” watches.....My Alpinist, my Hamilton Kahki Automatic, my Seiko Sna411 Flighty, and some vintage watches and pocket watches that I am now giving to family. NOT my wrist watches though......dang kids will have to wait! Lol, 🤣 I love a good deal but what I really treasure is fine function. I did NOT have the money for a Rolex GMT ll and I honestly did not know my Steinhart even was an “homage” watch. After MUCH study on YT and looking at everything from $1000.00 or less. That was my budget, the watch is gorgeous. I am happy! Another very fine vid Hugo & do give my best to your huuuuuman!
Supposedly Picasso also said, "Bad artists copy, great artists steal." That's because when you copy, you just duplicate something's outer form; when you steal, you take its concept.
Just wanted to thank you. You are such a wealth of watch information and do it with no snobbery in this hobby. Fell in love with watches after purchasing my Tissot T-Race and so many I would love to own but as a working family man with limited means, for the most part, homage watches are what is within my means and I appreciate you making people like myself proud of that and not feeling less than...thank you so much. Fan and subscriber for life.
I completely understand, I’m a restauranteur and chef with schooling from in house and I have literally made up my own recipe book from other chefs and ideas to create my own specials. Just because we get inspirations from someone else, doesn’t mean we don’t have original ideas.... we need to appreciate hard work, craftsmanship and value for what we do.
I recently purchased various Orient diver watches for my 3 sons and myself, as well as a Stührling skeleton watch for my daughter. The Stuhrling has less history but it's more of a fashion thing for her, she loves it. My boys and I all love our Makos, Rays and Kamasus. Since I purchased them, at least three of them have doubled in price, as I tried to buy the more unique colors and configurations. We're very happy with our homage watches. Glad I Watched!
I love how humble you are, talking about timepieces: whether cheap or expensive, you still leave room for every watch enthuasiast. Instantly subbed to your chan.
Hi. I'm new to this and a little bit confused about the terminology. There appears to be a resounding declaration of 'not cool' for replicas. However, as far as I can tell, people seem to be less hostile towards homage watches. Is that assessment correct? If it is, what's the difference between a replica and a homeage? Is it down to whether or not they copied the logo? Is that it?
Not just copying the logo. Also copying the externals. To avoid the trouble involved with being accused of being a fake/copy/clone, homage makers instead intentionally design in some variations from the original watch features and components. Not all. Some.
Dear T, it's always a pleasure to watch your videos. I particularly loved this one, so rich of insightful thoughts and arguments, which I do completely agree with! And the T Rex fits so well here... to put it simple, I like to think that it is not what you have or wear which defines you. But it is you the one who defines your style! Your knowledge, your manners, your personality. In the end, what you have and wear it's just a reflection of your whole being. And God knows how complex beings we are! Have and wear what you really want, accordingly with what you feel and really are, and you will never be wrong this way, being simply and truly Yourself. And give all the fake Snobs to the T Rex! Take care, e un abbraccio amico mio. Ciao. Manrico
Manrico!!!! Great to hear from you sir. I hope this finds you well. A truly profound, truthful and inspiring comment. You have no idea how much it pleases me to hear this. Un grande abbraccio anche a te fratello, onwards and upwards! Best regards, TGV
I’ve actually bought several watches over the past month because I started watching your channel reviews. I picked up 3 Steinhart’s and the Seiko Tuna Arnie. Thank you 🙏🏻.
I currently own two Steinhart watches one Christopher Ward and an Omega you may have guessed the watch I wear the most ! Steinhardt cleans cars ,does gardening, drinks beer and walks dogs ! Omega for sale to buy more Steinharts😎
Another quality upload TGV, my first automatic watch was the Invicta Pro Diver, I lusted after a Submariner after wearing my friends but like many couldn't justify the price tag. I have absolutely no regrets as my research into the NH35 movement opened many doors and led me down the path I am on now, I'll soon be replacing it with a Glycine Combat Sub. I'd wear an invicta, alpha or parnis any day over the likes of Emporio Armani, DW, MVMT, Michael Kors etc
I’ve always really liked watches growing up, but this channel has really helped open my mind and interest into the history of the companies and specifics watches. I’m not a collector, but I know I want to start and I’m glad I came across these videos. Hoping to get an Omega, Breitling, or maybe a Tudor in the next few years.
Bravo TGV! This is one of my favorite of your videos. I decided to have a look as I contemplate purchasing a Steinhart pepsi. I’m a well-educated medical professional who chose a public health career. Of course this doesn’t match up well to my Rolex ambitions! But your kind words give a sense of nobility to those of us who love horology but reject the snobbery. Your words are wise and speak to your obviouslu strong moral fiber. Cheers!
Thank you again for being an inspiration! I have listened again this video today after just ordering my Invicta Pro Diver! I have some great pieces in my collection recommended by you and I enjoy every one of them! Much appreciating what you do and the passion you so genuinly share! Happy new year for 2023!
I own the exact Invicta pro diver it's an excellent watch and I have no complaints with it, I use it as a beater watch for when I don't want to damage one of my Seiko watches. At the end of the day as long as the watch has a reliable movement and it makes you smile when you look at it then that's all it needs to do, the Invicta has a Seiko movement and I am a Seiko nut, have been from a teenager, I am now 49 so I would rather have an Invicta pro diver than a Rolex because I can afford to buy a new motorcycle instead, and that's exactly what I did, and my Kawasaki W800 turns more heads than a Rolex. Great video glad to see and hear common sense.
I started my watch collection with a Casio CA-53w and then I found an original DBC-600 at a thrift shop for 5 bucks (battery was dead) that’s when I started collecting Casio digital watches. A while back I got an itch for a diver. However, I don’t have even 200 dollars to spend on a watch let alone in the thousands. So I made the biggest watch purchase and bought a Casio Duro after seeing your beater watch video. (Ironically it’s my “luxury” watch after I put a steel band) point is, I love Casios and I enjoy collecting them. And sure I’d love an Omega but I have fun collecting and fixing Casios. And more importantly I love giving away my Casios because they can bring so much joy and nostalgia, and for less than $20 you can’t beat that. So I appreciate what you said at the end of the video. If you aren’t enjoying it, then what’s the point?
I was looking at purchasing a 'Duro' but as I have a small wrist size it was too large. I did however buy a Casio MTD1053D diver which is 40mm on a stainless steel bracelet with much the same specs. Great watches and comfortable on the wrist, really love it. I like you enjoy Casio watches, they are great value for money and do the job they are supposed to.
Well said. I own a Steinhart Ocean One 39. My grail watch would be a Rolex Submariner of course. But at the prices I've seen lately, even a used Sub is a bit out of my budget. Now looking looking at what you get with a Steinhart, anyone who does their homework would be hard pressed to find a greater value for their money. About the only watch I would consider to be of equal value in terms of money spent would be the Oris Aquis. For me, this piece would be the high end of what I could afford. The only thing that has prevented me from planning on buying it is that Oris has decided to go with the larger 43mm case, (hence my 39mm Steinhart). I feel, as does TGV does, that the watch community is a very diverse group of people all linked together by their love of timepieces. Wear what you love and can afford. As with any "luxury" item, no one should ever place themselves or their loved ones in hock just to say I own a "enter name brand here". Cheers!
I am 14 years old and completely in to watches. i own watches from 50$ to 2000$ and just bought a Parnis GMT 12. it is one of the best value watches out there, it may homage the Rolex GMT Master II, but it is Great! Homages get too much hate.
Here's the problem I have with this conversation....and with brands like Invicta, Seiko, and others. The issue is that you have quality mixed with garbage. You can't just go out and buy any Invicta, and you can't just go out and buy any Seiko. You might pick up a good one, or you might pick up a hunk of junk. You can't really make any good decisions based on price either because a somewhat expensive Invicta might be trash compared to an $80 Seiko and vice versa (not just these brands but dozens of brands). This is what makes something like a Rolex always a sure bet....you know when you buy a Rolex there's no fkn up. With so many brands these days and so much disparity between the good and bad models they make, you have to be a god damned professional researcher in order to determine the best place to put your money. It's insane that you literally have to spend 3-4 weeks to accurately assess the market and research the products in detail in order to make sure you buy a timepiece rather than a piece of stainless steel (which....lets face it ...is what so many watches of today are...a hunk of stainless steel) So sadly what you end up with is people throwing hundreds, or thousands of dollars, or in ProducerMichael's case for example HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS of dollars around having no clue what they are buying.
@@Michael-ot9bk Rolex just show what a genuine swiss made watch cost. The other swiss can be made in China and just put together in Switzerland. 51% must be swiss produced and 60% of the production cost must be in Switzerland to call it swiss. So if they charge 1000€ for assembly and quality control on a 100€ chinese manufacture it's a swiss watch. The japanese are different when it comes to honour and it's history in metalworks etc, so a JDM Seiko we can be sure is made in Japan by Seiko. This doesen't make the Rolex "better" than a Seiko.
@@Michael-ot9bk well everyone has an opinion and both you and urban gentry believe homage watches are not the ones to buy now I like watches and I have a lot from citizen seiko casio I like the looks of a rolex submarine but I cant afford thousands on a watch so I buy one that has the looks but much cheaper .and as most watch people would point out who actually notices the watch but only watch enthusiasts.as long as you like the watch you are wearing then that is what really matters .
Great video I love how you turn the negatives into positives also I bought a Seiko sea urchin with black bezel (edit: I mean dial) to start off my collection which is a homage watch it looks similar to the Rolex submariner but I'm in love with it and one of my favourite features is it's glass back so I can see everything moving and working inside. To anyone reading this you have no idea how much happier you will be when you wear a watch your passionate about instead of a mobile phone.
I bought one a couple months ago too, I do love it. But... The painting on the bezel puts me off, the only kinda thing that at a glance (without looking too hard) makes it noticeably a homage watch. The paint just isn't clean, would have been cool to have an etched bezel, for maybe a £100 extra or something.
What I've notice as of late, is that many homage watch maker's are using better quality materials than those found on some of the originals, especially with crystals, bezels, crowns, dials, etc. I found this to be true with some Seiko models. For example; Steel Diver, makes a beautiful homage of the Seiko " Captain Willard". The Seiko original Willard has a hardlex crystal and aluminum bezel insert, where as the Steel Diver, "Deep Ocean". Willard homage has an ARC sapphire crystal and ceramic lumed bezel insert, and the overall lume on the watch is very good, lasting as long or longer than some Seiko PADI's I've owned. Now I know the Seiko Willard has a higher end Seiko movement, But I thing the Seiko NH35A that is in the Steel Diver will suit me just fine, as it is an excellent movement regardless of the lower cost. So, did I spend $1000.00 USD, to get the Seiko, or $135.00 USD for the Steel Diver? Actually, I have two Steel Diver Willards, one in black and one in green, and an extra $750.00 USD, in my pocket!
The problem is.....and the way how I view this whole “Homage” issue is: 1). If a company borrowed/ used/ mimicked a particular product/watch model after an original design or watch model from others. The homage version needed to be an improvement, better or given more than the original......then it is a great honoring or paying tribute to the original. I see absolutely nothing wrong with it. But if the “homage” version is in anyway shape or form that worsen, less, or poorly put together with lousy craftsmanship compare to the original....then that is an absolutely insult and yes, you should not buy it. I bought a Seiko King turtle 6309 homage and not only it came with sapphire crystal, nicer polish, better Seiko movement, nicer strap, much nicer dial finish.....the most important thing---> completely perfectly aligned chapter ring and everything for less money than the original.....now for that I would not feel guilty and keep asking myself--> why would I waste my time and money with Seiko when they DONT listen to why their fan wanted for a long long time?
Great subject, noble, honest, intelligent comment, love the phrase from the great human actor, Sir Anthony Hopkins, excellent choice! I have an Accurist quartz, costed about $60-70, perfect spare watch, however my favourite watches are the IWC’s Breitlings and Rolexes, as I tried them on all, and I have felt, and seen the stunning quality of them. This quality is coming from an extra level of care, from the quality of the components, and the consious, highly talented and skilled human work, the kraftmanship on them! For me that is the most important think in the whole story! The human effort, the precision, the reliability, the level of the talent and skill, knowledge and intelligence and work! The market is huge and very divided in the therm of requirements and offerings. I think, that basically there is nothing to worry about, eventhough! That is wonderful, how many ways are there to achieve basically the same goal, as finally everyone can find what they want and can afford and become satisfied - for shorter or longer term, but definitely just for one fragile lifetime. :) Anyways. I love watches, like you, guys. Thanks for the great great video! Hugs: Robert :)
T, Great video. Most important words - "Who cares what other people think?". We should all wear what we like nothing more and nothing less. Best as always.
Great video. I have personally dealt with people who are watch snobs and can’t look past the minor details. I appreciate that you have addressed the topic and have shown that not all homages are bad.
Thank you, sorry to hear you had to deal with snobs, life is full of them unfortunately. Take solace in the fact your life will be richer and more enjoyable because you are open minded ;-) Onwards and upwards. Best regards, TGV
Yeah you can see how that strap is a bit snug on the lugs. I have a tailor that has actually for a small price tailor my nato straps to fit. He will sew in the leather strip to go over the adjustment holes on the strap to allow you to wear the watch more easily when trying to get the pin in the right hole and cut a gradual groove out were the strap sits across the watch which is unnoticeable and stops the strap curving up on the lugs like yours and he will Stich the cut so it won’t fray all for a tenner. Makes your nato or similar look like a much more expensive variation
I'm perfectly happy with an Invica Pro Diver. Many folks in this hobby forget that being content and happy with what you have at the moment is key for the long journey in watch collecting.
Nobody is addressing the fact that homage watches often have the best specifications in their price range? Its not about fooling someone or trying to pretend. Getting a seiko movement, sapphire crystal, 120 click ceramic bezel, AR coating, C3Loom AND tudor/rolex styling is just a bonus for $200. Bargain hunting is fun lol.
I have a couple rolexes and omegas. They stay in the safe and for special occasions. The rolexes have increased in value by 40%. Steinharts use ETA 2824, 316L, ceramic bezel, great craftsmanship. Bulletproof. I have three and wear them all the time. The value vs money is lopsided to say the least. To me it’s the best for the price in any tier. When Chevy came out with the Camaro and they called it a mustang clone did that make it a bad car? A watch is a watch. What you like is what you like. Steinharts look awesome and feel great. Wish I had more.
I'm very new to your channel TGV and to the hobby in general. Got to it a little late, I'm just over sixty, but better late than never. Been more into antique clocks up to now. I'm watching a few of your videos a night and I really do appreciate your knowledge and passion, it just shines through. Loved it when you mentioned Thomas Tompion, John Harrison and Roger Smith in a vid I watched last night. I'm looking forward to discovering your 'back catalogue' of videos in the coming weeks and the new ones as they pop up. Best wishes from the N.W. of England.
Very interesting video. A good watch is a good watch, period, regardless of the brand. Its like saying all jeans are homages of Levi Strauss. So I guess a lot of people are wearing homage jeans! Just a thought. Good video. 👍🏼
I love my Steinhart Ocean 1 Bronze (green)! And if you look into the history, it was only 1 rare model in Bronze from Rolex Submariner. I hope in the next months buy the Ocean One Vintage (similar to another rarity: Submariner 6200). Why pay 20.000 euro when I can pay 470 for a swiss-german quality/fabrication watch?
When you see a $13,000 Panerai made with a silicon strap worth $2 then go for the homage. Besides, most of the base metal in a Rolex is just stainless steel hardly a precious metal! Ask yourself this....When was the last time you were stopped on the street with someone with a loupe in their hand to checkout your luxury watch because it caught their eye? NEVER!
That Invicta pro diver is what got a watch back on my wrist(and a modest collection, including some Lego watches) instead of using my phone for timekeeping.
Great video as usual T! I can absolutely say, without a doubt, your channel has been a massive influence to my recently new obsession to watches! Totally agree with your last two points, I'll wear Bambinos or Seiko SNKs any day as oppose to Hublot LaFerraris and Cabestans, watches which quite literally costs you an arm and a leg! (My personal preference, of course) Curious to know though, about your thoughts on these super high end and super complicated watches, like laferraris and cabestans (to name a few) that are, in my opinion, complicated just for sake of complications, i.e. not very practical complications (This is just my opinion, would really love to hear from you what your thoughts are on this). Cheers!
Homage watches are what got me into the hobby! I’ve kinda moved on from it but I won’t ever forget how I got here in the first place. I initially started off with seiko homages to the crazy Rolexes but now I’m more inclined to picking up more original humble brands such as Grand Seiko or Rado.
I ordered my Steeldive Tuna and I am happily waiting until it is delivered. As you mentioned before, do your own research before you find the right one. As homage watches were something new to me (I didn't know that something like this exists) I wanted to buy the most rational choice, based on 4 criteria. Design, technical capability, quality, and price. I am currently searching for a non-scuba watch, but this proves to be an even harder job. There is a lot of cheap good looking watches and there is a lot of overpriced branded junk. I don't want to buy a brand, I want to buy a quality watch, that ticks all 4 categories aforementioned. So far I have found Cadisen C8187 and Cadisen C8097. The problem that I have with the latter one, is that "diamond" on the top of the dial... I simply can't ignore it. For C8187, I can't find a review and a video. I am not buying a watch based on a picture or on a promo video. I want to see it on somebody's hand as the colors are rather special. If somebody knows watches that offer the same quality, please recommend them. Special hate for Timex, Orient, Lorriet, Pagani, San Martin and some other watch brands. They don't tick all 4 boxes. PS: I am currently reviewing AVI-8 and Lorus, let's see If I find my unicorn.
Thank you very much for this video! Firstly I though that it will be really video which should discourage from even thinking about buying homage watches. However, I was very pleasantly surprised by your opinion. I wish everybody in watches community would be reasonable as you. I started with this hobby 3 years ago by purchasing Hamilton. I had also two timepieces from the past - Wenger and Zeppelin at that time but there was “just” watches for me. Hamilton has begun my love for collecting watches. After purchasing other few timepieces I decided to buy my first homage - Steeldive SD1953. I though it would be my watch for manual work which I would not regret when it got damaged. Maybe for someone it is step back in my watch collecting journey but I like it so much that it begun almost my everyday watch. The price-performance ratio is great and accuracy is the best of my all mechanical watches. In the end, I even regret having them as a manual work watch even at such a low price. And this is also the reason why I can never buy a Rolex except for the price of course. I would be so worried about them anyway that I wouldn't wear them. Obviously I have the same problem with significantly cheaper watches.
Great video as usual. I own two Stienharts, an Ocean One Green and a GMT Pepsi. Love them both as I can wear them almost anywhere at any time. I also have a Datejust 41 in Gold and Steel which is my ‘pride and joy’. I wear that much less often than the Steinharts, for “dressier” occasions. Horses for courses imho.
I like your style Geoff, I am very much the same way. Thank you for sharing that and keep enjoying your fantastic line up of watches. Best regards, TGV
Wonderful and informative presentation!!!! I just ordered a Steinhart and NTH watches. The NTH “The Mack” looks amazing and I love that part of the sale price is donated!!!! Cheers and this video definitely opened my eyes for a homage watch!!!!
Shot in the dark here commenting on a 4 year old video but- What is that bumper music between segments? I know it's from a movie and it's driving me nuts!
When I’m dressed up and going out somewhere special I put on my Rolex it feels great, when I’m knocking about I put on my bliger it feels great,nuff said!!!
Great video. I really like how you express your opinion with no disrespectful comments and being considerate. Your class just shines through and shows the gentleman nature of your character. Maybe I'm imagining all this and it's just your accent playing a trick. :) Either way, subscribed.
This is really awesome to see. A great "watch guy", one of the pros in the bussiness, saying so many humble truths. Great video. You have a new subscriber!!
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #60 РОЖДЕНИЕ ЛОЛОЛОШКИ [Финал] • Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YoR0pAV9FVQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Unless you travel in a circle of other watch geeks, absolutely NOBODY is going to care, or even notice, what kind of watch you're wearing; much less even know it was an homage. How many non-watch enthusiasts could name even ONE luxury watch brand besides Rolex? How many could name even a SINGLE Rolex model? I'll bet that a great many Submariner homage owners have no idea that their watch is a copycat. They just bought it because it looks cool. And that's totally fine. For someone to sneer at anyone else for wearing an homage watch is so self-aggrandizing, it's nauseating.
Amen to that, I get so many comments from non-camera people on my Fujifilm asking if it's a Leica... it's always amusing when I say no, it's like the name means more than the object :))
Ya, I think "watch guys" forget that no one but them knows what any Rolex watches look like. Everyone has heard of them, but they will only think you own one if they see Rolex written on it
I used to think that you could pick a fake Sub because it didn't have a
Cyclops! (Hey, at least I knew what a Submariner looked like... kind of...😁).
Michael Horn So the moral of the story is buy what you like. Whatever that is or what Michael Horn thinks of it. As long as it makes YOU happy. Who gives a fuck what anyone else thinks??
But here you sit watching the video?
The Best watches Are the ones U like and can afford!!
I could not agree more, this is perhaps the most important thing one can take away from my channel and I am so happy you agree, thank you!
Best regards,
TGV
I agree.....its homage watches that have made me a collector....If I bought a Rolex or Omega,it would be the ONLY watch I could afford to own .....My favorite daily wear watch is a Cadisen 1032
Seiko NH36 movement sapphire crystal and about $55 dollars American.....how can you go wrong
'the best watch is the one YOU are wearing'
Totally agree.
always has been mate
I love watches and it's definitely within my means to have perhaps a Rolex or Omega. But what gives me even more enjoyment is to spend my money on the happiness of my family. So if it's a choice between me watching my daughter at the local dance school with a Rolex on my wrist, and my daughter going to the Royal Ballet School in Richmond while I wear a Parnis...... Parnis wins every time.
While still enjoying a watch!
Priorities
Absolutely! It's a matter of opportunity cost. Look at all the things one can buy for the difference in price between a Rolex and a Citizen.
At first glance, I saw a slightly different word than "Parnis"...
Obviously you have something money can’t buy and most men are struggling to find a woman who’s not materialistic or attention seeking and big into social media who can actually make you happy and help raise your children correct, as a young man that’s what we can’t find in my generation that’s got to be worth more than any watch
I think something like a Submariner is so iconic that buying an homage is analogous to buying a print of something like "Starry Night". For some amount of money you could get the original painting, but for a very large majority of people that's just never going to be something they can or want to do. A lot of people really enjoy the design itself though and own prints of it or other recreations that are faithful to the original. As long as you're not pretending it's the original van Gogh, but actually just an expression of your love for a classic design then I think it's great.
That explanation just shooked my world. You are so right.
Greatest analogy
Well said my friend, well said.
schöne analogie!
Excellent analogy- I'll have to remember it! Best I've heard.
"No one is going to take you seriously." -- My watches are for me, not for other people.
I think that’s an overrated issue. Nobody has ever judged me on my watch. Most people don’t give a rats.
Yeah I prefer my Pagani PD 1664 for 100$ instead of 25 000$ Rolex and I don't give a f... how it looks, for me it's Pagani not Rolex.
I think only steinhart is good
@@johnluke5478 But do you have the $25,000 Rolex?
@@johnluke5478 I think it would be a valid argument if it was working correctly. It's a turd (have on at the wrist atm). Looks great though. I would tend to Steinhart too.
If homage watches are looked down upon by watch “enthusiasts” then I don’t want to be one.
Homage is almost always a nicer word for copy/fake. Don't be a fake person!
@@ulrikreimann652 A "homage" is basically an imitation of a design, a fake is a knock-off.
@@villagranvicent if thats tye case then 50% of the market is homage
Homages are everywhere. Doesn't mean they're fake. Every M Package BMW and every AMG design Mercedes are basically homages. I don't see people complaining there. :)
@@ulrikreimann652 How does buying/wearing a homage watch correlate to being a fake person?
Are you that insecure or something?
One of the best things I've ever heard. "What other people think of me is none of my business."
RPMan thanks for sharing, I’ll keep this one in mind
Lorenzo he doesn’t talk people out of buying homage watches. He takes 5 points from forums and debunks them. At the end of the vid he says “perhaps there is a reason not to buy homage watches, but I can’t think of one.”
That’s the greatest quote I’ve ever heard!
So why not buy what you want? Isn't this a hobby? This is a debate not worth having. People should purchase what they are comfortable with and enjoy the purchase. Enjoy watches of all brands and types!
E Larson yeah agreed
E Larson I agree with you 100 %. I have some invictas myself. I got buddies that have them too and some of them get the crazy looking ones. That I would not were. But I don’t judge them. I’m happy that they enjoy them.
E Larson i mean i really want an Audemars Piguet royal oak concept but i don’t have $220,000 bucks just laying in some sock drawer, and last time I checked AP doesn’t take monopoly money
Star Trek Theory you miss the point. It’s ok if you feel that way for yourself. Not everybody can afford a expensive watch. So if someone wants to wear a so called goofy watch. They should go right ahead.
Star Trek Theory well since you wish you could socially enforce standards I’ll take your cue. You should really proofread your comments before you share them.
Thank You for your video. I am a 47 year old Hispanic-American man, living in Los Angeles and I confess I have been a fool. For the last 20 years my everyday watch has been a steel grey timepiece, I earned from a company as a prize for winning a sales contest in my youth. About 15 years ago, a friend traveled overseas and brought me a gift, a "FAKE ROLEX", that I understood was a good quality replica. The problem is, that as much as I loved looking at the fake, I felt a bit guilty inside, like a hypocrite or a fake person. I kept it for about 6 mos, when a coworker who by his own words "was fake" offered me a few bucks for it, and I got rid of that guilty hot potato. I told my friend about it, and he felt I was overthinking the entire experience, but was OK that I got rid of it. That fake timepiece began my obsession with Rolex, and I have since visited their website, and the Rolex store countless of times, but I never made a purchase. Until this day, I believe the Rolex Submariner is a thing of human perfection, and I truly appreciate them for what they do. However, I decided many years ago that I would more than likely (will never say never) not own a Rolex, simply because the cost is too high and I am too practical to spend my hard earned money that way. The problem was however, that I also never purchased any watch because the look I love is the submariner, and I felt so guilty with the fake that I was unable to reconcile the decision. I cousin of mine who has a different money philosophy then my own, did buy a Rolex, and made a comment that all homage watches are "unoriginal copycats not worth a cent". For many years I never bought a watch, because I cared too much what others thought about the issue. A few recent experiences changed my mind, and your video just confirmed to me that for many years I have been wrong. The first experience was the loss of my father, and the understanding that he never left me a Rolex, but I do treasure his classic Seiko as something very special to me. The second experience was my wife giving birth to a beautiful daughter, making me a dad. I kept thinking, I may not own a Rolex but at this pace I may not even have a Seiko to leave to my daughter. The final experience came when my wife decided to purchase an Invicta #26970 for my birthday, because she remembered how I love Rolex but refuse to wear a fake. These three experiences combined to help me change my mind about homage watches. I was visiting a car museum in Los Angeles (The Nethercutt Collection) when I read how prior to Henry Ford with his model-T mass produced assembly line vehicle, only the rich tended to purchase vehicles that were mostly custom made. It wasn't until Henry Ford came up with his cheap homage to transportation, that our world as we know it changed for the better. It made me see that the wealthy, elite, and rich of the world have every right to enjoy the finer things in life, but I too should not deprive myself of something that brings me happiness with in my own financial limitations or self imposed budget. I still love Rolex, but I realized that if I buy the classic submariner, I would soon get bored and want the second color, and third, and fourth; creating in me an unhealthy obsession for material things, and depriving me of my personal happiness. This week I finally did it. I ordered the various other colors of the Invicta watch my wife purchased, and I ordered a few display boxes to keep them in. I now own a simple collection of 10 watches (about $50 each on sale), and I must admit they make me so happy to wear them and look at them. I made a decision by purchasing 3 12 watch leather display cases, to make more purchases of timepieces that I hope will bring me some happiness in the years ahead. I only knew of Invicta, when I discovered your channel. I love your videos, and with your help I will make more well researched, better watch purchases in the future. I love the Invicta, but I have 26 empty slots (my 3 display cases) to fill in the years to come, and I plan to give other reasonable priced watch brands a try. I will continue to watch your videos for inspiration. Thank you for helping me see that I was wrong to deprive myself of a small measure of happiness, just because of what "The Commitee of THEY" might think. My collection consists of of seven Invictas, one Seiko (my dads) and one company gifted steel watch that will remain as my first watch. I look forward to making intentional, well researched purchases within my budget in the years to come, and becoming a novice watch enthusiast. Yes I said it, I am a watch enthusiast in the making, within reason. Thanks for your help. CB
Thanks for sharing that Charlie, carpediem.
A lot of growth took place here
I think I'm going to get a Invicta myself just to have that experience as they look great IMHO.
My pro diver was great. I had it about 3 years. The invicta logo detached from the face. I left it on a bench at the bus stop in front of my building. I have a Steinhart ocean 1 now. I love it.
Thanks for this comment. Congratulations on the beautiful watch collection and beautiful family you built.
I own a Rolex, Tudor and brietling, but my everyday watch and actual dive watch is a STEINHART. Been wearing this watch for 8yrs and dive at least twice a month with this watch. It's been bullet proof for me, maybe I just got lucky, but don't think so. Great watch, great customer service, will be buying another FOR SURE.
Steinhart’s 1000m and 500m divers with 2824 and 2892 movements respectively for just ~$500 is incredible. Fashion brands such as Rolex are just that.
Which watch size would you recommend for diving? 39 mm or 42 mm
And that's why you can afford a Rolex, Tudor and Breitling: cause you're not a friggin idiot! Unless you poop gold bars, you really shouldn't be diving in a Rolex. I could slave off for a while and buy me that one, but I want a diver to take to the beach, and I realise I cannot really afford to take a Rolex there. Just because you can save up for the sum price of an object doesn't mean you really can afford it. Many people forget that.
@@Wick3dKiwi2015 whatever fits better.
I own rolexes , omegas mostly and I’m craving big time for a steinhart!
It's something that some people can't accept a homage. There are 2 specific watches I'd love have but due to my job not paying me Rolex or Omega paychecks I look at what's realistic for me. I have no problem wearing a watch that resembles either of those brands, because at the end of the day, it isn't about saving for a 6000+ $ watch, it's about saving for me and my family.
Njama Jones your better off not buying any of those brands and getting more for your money. There's other watches out there that are just as good at half the price or even more. Some of these watches your paying a couple thousand dollars extra just for the name on the dial.
So true. I make rolex and omega paycheck but choose to save it i like watches and appreciate the craftsmanship but at the end of the day a watch is a watch
Njama Jones I don’t understand why getting something similar when you know it isn’t the same, when you could buy something that is cheaper but ya it’s own personality
It's simple, but your snobbery blinds you to it. People get those watches because they like that style. It's as simple as that. They could get something different but that wouldn't be the style they like. They like they style but they either can't afford (and never will be able to) or are mature and smart enough to realize spending luxury watch money is a wasteful extravagance that could be put to better uses. Look- I own a Rolex and a couple of Omegas, but I can understand why someone would buy a homage.
A very good video with great thoughts shared. Thank you sir.
If I see someone wearing a Rolex I invariably imagine that it’s been bought as a status symbol. Which is perfectly fine btw.
If I see someone wearing a Steinhart I think ah.......must be a watch enthusiast. Who else but an enthusiast would go to the trouble of discovering Steinhart and acquiring one. Or indeed any other good quality so called homage watch.
Good point!
I like the way you think. Somewhat similar to that saying about Grand Seiko. "You buy a Rolex to impress other people. You buy a Grand Seiko to impress yourself."
Well said that’s a great way to look at it
I have myself an stainhart Ocean premium blue I really like it
I somewhat agree with you. I’m a Rolex fan, and have a couple, but I don’t like them because they might impress people. I think gold and diamond watches do that more. I appreciate the history of the brand and the heritage of particular pieces. I am a genuine enthusiast and I love me a good longines or Oris.
I don’t judge people who buy homages. I bought several myself. Now, I know it's not for me. But in the end of the day, what really matters is wearing the watch we love, no matter what others are thinking of it.
The best watch is the one on your wrist right?
@@julianmorales-silva160 Nope.
well said
Very true for me
Gunter Steinhart said " I want to make a watch at an honest price and high quality" . He has definitely done that. 316L steel, ETA swiss movements, Sapphire Crystal, AR blue coating, great machined bracelet, solid Bezels, 300m WR.... what more can you ask from a $500 watch? I own a few high end brand watches and have added a Steinhart OVM 39mm to my collection. The Steiny never leaves my wrist funnily. It really makes me question why you would pay more money for other watches with same specs? That said im not a big fan of direct style copy cats, the OVM model was an exception for me as I love the MilSub style and it's a watch I will never own. End of the day it's your watch, if it makes you happy wearing it, if it gives you joy every time you look at it that's all that matters. Buying a watch or anything else for that matter just to impress others is a miserable hobby. I think it was Madonna who said,
"poor is the man, who's pleasure depends on the permission of another"
I've got two lovely Steinhart watches, costing about €1400 for the pair. Swiss movements, accurate and looks good to me. I wear one for work, that I can ding, scratch and scrape and one for sipping Singapore slings in Raffles. If I win the lottery, I may buy a Explorer II on the way to the Mercedes garage, but until then i'm sticking with what I like and afford. I have a deep suspicion that the increase in price for basic Rolex watches has nothing to do with the extra build quality of the watch and everything to do with the blanket sponsorship and marketing bills.
Too bad the reality is so different,steer clear of Herr Steinhart and his version of customer care.....
"Be tolerant with others, and strict with yourself." -- Can't argue with Marcus!
Believe it or not, it was an Invicta watch that ignited my watch obsession
That is great to hear, in that case, it is priceless.
Thank you for sharing that Drew.
Best regards,
TGV
Believe it or not, it was TGV who caused me to put an SKX007 on my wrist.
Keith Peng
I believe it!
Same here. It was my first automatic.
And you know what? It keeps amazingly accurate time! Better than some of my ‘brand’ watches.
It was an Invicta that got me into homages when I bought it as a daily alternative to my Seamaster. Since then I've bought a few. Latest arrived today...Rolex Explorer homage by Parnis from Aliexpress.....excellent.
The pro diver is one of the best watches you can get for 100$ Just because they made it look like a Rolex doesn’t mean its bad.
I always wanted a Subby, decided on my last B-Day I was never gonna get there. I bought a Pro-Diver for 90 bucks. Good to 2/3rds the depth of a Rolly, with an excellent bracelet, and a display back. The Seiko movement is about 2:45 seconds slow in a month.
This watch, which I got delivered to my house within a coupe days of ordering (Rolex has a long waiting list) Is literally almost as good as a Submariner, but cost 1/150th as much. And now that I've had it awhile--and I can't believe I'm saying this--but I have actually grown to like the looks of the Invicta over the Rolex.
Sorry, everybody, but I guess I'm a cretin.
Invicta is actually an older company than Rolex and I understand the people that own Invicta now are not the original owners. But I'm pretty sure that Rolex probably ripped off some of their things from the original Invicta
@@TheRealDrJoey the way I look at it ,how can you go wrong with a robust seiko movement.i like the glass back as well so you can see the movement. For the price as well ,invicta all the way.
Agreed
I have a Seiko S wave orange face, my brother’s Gold Seiko he left me when he passed, My fathers 1981 Rolex I kept when he passed, and I have two Invictas recently bought. I get more compliments on the Invictas, maybe because they are 45mm, and they look better on my large wrist, or the faces. My UPS driver is a huge Invicta collector, he likes the 50 mm and up which I think is too large, but still looks good. My friend in LA is a huge watch collector of Rolex, Omega, etc, and even though he wouldn’t buy one, he likes my Invictas. Like it was said, it’s what you enjoy. Cars are the same way. A lot of us can’t run out and buy a Tesla, but we could get a four-year-old infinity and still get compliments.
Great video! ... I am an retired soldier turned watchmaker and I routinely work on movements from 19th Century pocket watches to modern automatics on my own UA-cam channel. I love Rolex, I love Jaeger Le Coultre, I love Richard Mille, I love the higher end Waltham and Elgin Pocket Watches, I love Roamer and Certina, I love Longines ... but I also love Invicta and Steinhart. Barring 'nasty' fake watches ... its all good. I love my Invictas with the Seiko NH35A! Long live Homage ... Long live Luxury! It's all good! :)
How dare you pit steinhart and invicta in same sentance... 😳
Former vice president Dan Quayle used to wear a Casio.
@Ocean Summit as someone else said somewhere else in the comments section it was invicta that ignited my interest in watches. I have a number of vintage 60s and 70s automatics, two invictas, and have just got my first microbrand watch, a precista aerotimer. Beautiful watch that I am very impressed with. I had the money for either a tudor or a speedmaster but after looking at them both preferred the aerotimer and bought it for a fraction if the big name brands.
Bill Clinton sometimes wore a Timex Ironman while president. George W. Bush wore a Timex analog quartz with an American flag on the dial.
@@baraboo-nb7hv Oh shut up!
Swatch, Guess and Invicta got me into my love for watches... I don't see anything wrong in wearing homage watches. Wear what you like and live within your means...
well said as long as you like it thats all that matters.
Wear what you like and live within your means... Exactly as I feel and think. Why spend all your time and resources trying to save for a watch you don't really need to make you happy. There are so many other nice things and experiences to be had in life that a watch isn't that important in the whole scheme of things. Life is for living, not worrying what other people think of your worth or values by what you have on your wrist. Live and enjoy life first. If you can afford to buy your dream watch as well, that's a bonus but not essential.
Me Too ! Well said, I just got my Invicta Pro Diver, to add to my Tissot PR100 Powermatic 80, Now to buy a Seiko or an Orient... Stay safe ...
Casio has been more influential in my love for watches than any other brand
This guy is someone where the saying “Don’t judge a book by its cover” comes into play because while he would at first glance seem like a watch snob, watching his videos and seeing how humble he is and how he can see the joy and fun of getting into the watch game just make the videos all the more enjoyable and I can’t stop myself from watching. Truly extravagant that how that one characteristic can make or break his videos. I love em’!
Exactly why I subscribed to this gentleman. He presents his perspective courteously. He is really wants people to be interested in the wonderful world of horology and it shows with his open-mindedness.
Very accurate. TGV could be sipping rice tea while reading a leather bound Jules Verne novel with Italian opera playing in the background and on his wrist.....a $25 Casio. All gentleman, zero snobbery.
Ferrari is a total Homage to my hot wheels
Joe Joe preeeeeeeeeety sure you’ve got that mixed up but who am I to judge 😂😉
😂😂
hot wheels is a homage to matchbox
In the end, every single wrist watch sold today, ALL of them, are homage watches. Someone did the first wrist watch, and everyone else followed suit. It's just fact.
You gotta work with what you got. If you can't afford a Rolex, but you like the design, then you buy whatever other brand looks like it, and fits your budget, and there is absolutely NO shame in that. Just don't buy a watch that pretends to be something it's not. Don't buy something that says Rolex on the dial, but it really isn't. Not only would that be illegal in most places, but that is also really where i feel a hard line should be drawn.
Very well said
Christian Well said and totally agree! There's many other investment choices I'd make before buying a Rolex..
Excelente apreciación
Like musicians borrowing from classic songs, watches can only have so many "original" design cues. If you love it, wear it. A watch should make you happy when you see it on your wrist. If it also gets a few compliments, all the better.
I agree for the most part. Take the Invicta Pro Diver featured in this video, for example. I actually appreciate all of the branding Invicta slathered onto that piece. It makes no secrets whatsoever about what it really is. But then, did they really have to go so far as to copy even the "Mercedes" hands, and the cyclops lens? Most diver-style watches are inherently similar-looking. But there are certain details that just go too far; that would make me feel that I was in, fact, just wearing a "cheap copy." Most of my watches actually are SUPER cheap, but I try to find ones that aren't blatant copies of more famous designs.
It’s admirable how you discourage watch snobbery! 👏🏼
@@user-boobs hear hear.
With regard to watch snobs, as Oscar Wilde put it, they "know the price of everything and the value of nothing".
well said
Great quote!
HELLO I have ten invicta watches and my wife has six, for the past 12 years they have all worked perfect,half are made in japan automatic movements,, all the watch cases are to this day perfect ,we love our invictas !
Right on brother, I bought a pro diver 8926OB. I love it!
Good for you. I have 27 invicta watches and love them all.
@@chrisarthur3577 🤣🤣
I have 11 invicta watches and 17 Aragon watches. Love every one of them. All are automatic and keep perfect time.
It you think watch snobs are bad, don't start drinking fine wine.
What's wrong with wine ?
@@ХристоМартунковграфЛозенски not wine, but wine snobs he means, they are worse than watch snobs
@@Gasta1983 Ah. Thx.
I think I see how they could be worse, considering the way wine is at times presented - as a refined drink for connoisseurs. A snob there would certainly be (even more) annoying. Well, there are snobs for every thing under the sun, right ?
Христо Мартунков, граф Лозенски yes there are my friend, yes there are, you got that right lol
I know what you mean. My aunt is a wine snob. She is very particular about the wine she orders from restaurants. Especially when the bottle was opened. She won't drink wine that's been opened for more than a few days.
Honored to be mentioned, as always. Cheers, Tristano!
- Chris Vail
As someone new to watches and have financial responsibility, cost is driving what I can buy and how much. I think some watch people forget that. My friend loves his Invicta and I love my skx. Could we afford better, not now. Hopefully later. So relax people and let the people wear what they want, and you own them politness. I tell everyone the same thing. "I like your watch" and listen to the story. It more fun that way.
Ken Shearson I think people judge others quickly by what they think they know. I wear my skx because I cannot afford right now the Tudor or marathon watch I am lusting after. I real enjoy watches and I like to make the point ever so often that the choice of a cheaper watch was not ignorance but pocket book. And this is why I like the TGV, his joy for a Seiko made me get into watches.
@YouAllJackasses fair play, thats all good for you and others, great. My current watch cost just over a months salary (no date sub, new) but i aspire to soon own the platinum day date. If all other things are taken care of - to a nice standard, i see no problem in spending what it costs to get what i want - in my humble opinion, we should all aspire to achieve what we want, it makes us perform and move forward.
I bought an Invicta Pro Diver today! Its my first automatic and it seemed like the most bang for my buck. I freekin love it. I may buy another out of spite. It aint but $85. 🤷🏽♂️
Fare enough but after buying 2cheap invictas you could have had a legend.. Seiko skx007 now discontinued!😱😬😵😂😍🍻
Surfside Ive got one of those as well now!
You could argue that the Invicta ProDiver is starting to grow its own meaningful story among enthusiasts - as it's often used as an example for different reasons. I'll probably buy some real icons soon, but my Invicta was a great start into the topic, and I like both its conflicted story and the fact that I used it 24/7 during my last holiday.
I've been a Rolex owner for 26 years. I have no problems with homages and even bought a Steinhart Ocean One Titanium as a beater a year ago. Fantastic value for money. I'd even go as far as to say that a Steinhart Premium is closer to a Tudor Black Bay than a Tudor is to a Rolex Sub. THAT pisses Tudor people off. It's still true...
I absolutely love their Ocean One Vintage.
Modern Tudor are superior to rolex in every way, if that pisses rolex wearer's off..... Tough!
@@tynchytemper9618 Real Talk
it's not true but carry on !
@J H Ironically, there are fewer Steinhart and NTH owners than there are Rolex and Tudor owners. So which watch is really more exclusive?
I wear an Invicta pro diver, because I don't have $6000+ laying around just to spend on a single watch.
Even if I did, I would not wear a watch that expensive.
Glycine also came out with a water resistant watch in 1953 that had numbers on a rotating bezel. It also tracked multiple time zones. Rolex did it a year later with the GMT. Both Glycine and Rolex did what others have done and build on an existing knowledge base. We could argue if James Bond had wore a Glycine, the fortunes and perceptions of these companies would be very different today.
Chris Sullins absolutely. Rolex have simply capitalised on Visual Marketing. Very handsomely.
They are beautiful too but, nowhere near worth the money.
I love my black dial/ceramic bezel Steinhart Ocean One! It's absolutely gorgeous, runs extremely well, goes with everything and is tough as a tank. I was initially fascinated by the Rolex Sub but would never want to spend that kind of money on a watch, much less $600 for a service. The Ocean One allows me to enjoy the design beauty/genious of the sub without the financial wallop. At first Ithought I woud feel like a poser sporting a watch that looks so much like the sub but the reality is that I'm proud it's a Steinhart. I completely understand this perspective isn't for everyone!
I prefer my Steinhart 39 GMT Ceramic to my Omegas, Tag Heuers, and Seiko/Orients. It has the Swiss quality and precision, without the worry of an expensive watch. It currently runs at +1s/day, and even though it's an homage watch, it is still my favorite looking watch. Instead of spending $20,000 on a GMT Master II Black, I rather purchase investments or take several incredible trips with my wife while wearing an affordable homage watch AKA the Steinhart.
Homage watches, especially those made in Asia are great alternative for less economically developed countries. For many getting even a Ginault or Steinhart is an achievement like a Royal Oak or Explorer is for us, and i think we should as a community understand that differences.
Also we should not forget that even in cheapest watches there was point in time when somebody took his own effort to put a heart and soul into those gears and made them running.
The world does not end on Rolex. :)
You know, I’ve had my Invicta Pro Diver 8929OB for about 4 months now, and I love it. Very high quality piece, quality finish, and a smooth reliable movement. I don’t want to have to spend an arm and a leg to get a Submariner-esque watch when I can spend $100 on an automatic dive watch that does what I need and looks the part. So homage watches have their place. There’s nothing wrong with them.
Absolutely!
I have an older 8929OB from when the NH25 movement was being installed from the factory, and it keeps great time and looks consistently amazing! The blue dial changes all sorts of shades of blue and purple. Wear it in good health!
Absolutely true. I own the Invicta 8927OB and the Invicta 8928OB Pro Diver watches and they are great watches which I really enjoy wearing more than my more expensive pieces. They have a good Seiko movement which is reliable.
I agree with 90% of what you said in this video. The only thing is that in my personal experience I don’t think it’s always about buying a homage to replace the love for an expensive watch. I own an invicta pro diver and love it, and if I had my choice of Rolex it would be the GMT or Explorer not a sub mariner. My reason for buying the invicta was mainly what you get for the money, and it’s a GREAT entry level diver. Besides the company name is stamped all over it (unlike a bootleg Rolex). Again, I agree with you to a point. I think that as long as it’s not an exact replica or bootleg, copying a style is fine by me. Just my opinion...
TGV didn’t like my comment I guess... 😧. Lol that’s ok, he is still the man! He has helped me pick and choose great watches over time. Great channel!
Tempo Nelson .. Invicta got hooked on watches back in the Shopnbc days y'all remember that?!? I must have purchased aver a hundred of them... I sold all but 10 of them and they all still run! I still wear them in my rotation and I don't feel bad about it because they are now rare! I'll have a vintage Omega on a nato one day and the next I'm rocking a meteor dial with polished bracelet and case and you better believe I get those compliments... I love them!
get a skx
Star Trek Theory I have many watches dude. Seiko & Orient divers as well. Not getting rid of my Invicta!
Finaly someone who enjoys the Pro Diver
Tbh as long as the movement is good and I can get service when something goes wrong.
Homage watches are great for peasants like myself.
It could be easy for someone to misjudged you when glancing at one of you review videos. But videos like this show your true heart and nature and what a genuine person you are. Well done.
i don't really care but i love invicta...
Anybody that likes invicta can shampoo my crotch
@Ocean Summit I love Invictas!! I have maybe 10!
Francisco Ambay
Invicta is a dog shit brand, you are better off not wearing a watch at all
I also love invicta! I have two and love them both two of my favorite watches in my collection!
Benjamin Strong your full of crap
I just bought a “Pepsi” Steinhart Ocean 39 Vintage for about $700.00 direct from Steinhart. I travel. I did not own a GMT. I LOVE watches and I particularly love “Bang for the Buck” watches.....My Alpinist, my Hamilton Kahki Automatic, my Seiko Sna411 Flighty, and some vintage watches and pocket watches that I am now giving to family. NOT my wrist watches though......dang kids will have to wait! Lol, 🤣 I love a good deal but what I really treasure is fine function. I did NOT have the money for a Rolex GMT ll and I honestly did not know my Steinhart even was an “homage” watch. After MUCH study on YT and looking at everything from $1000.00 or less. That was my budget, the watch is gorgeous. I am happy! Another very fine vid Hugo & do give my best to your huuuuuman!
Supposedly Picasso also said, "Bad artists copy, great artists steal." That's because when you copy, you just duplicate something's outer form; when you steal, you take its concept.
Just wanted to thank you. You are such a wealth of watch information and do it with no snobbery in this hobby. Fell in love with watches after purchasing my Tissot T-Race and so many I would love to own but as a working family man with limited means, for the most part, homage watches are what is within my means and I appreciate you making people like myself proud of that and not feeling less than...thank you so much. Fan and subscriber for life.
I completely understand, I’m a restauranteur and chef with schooling from in house and I have literally made up my own recipe book from other chefs and ideas to create my own specials. Just because we get inspirations from someone else, doesn’t mean we don’t have original ideas.... we need to appreciate hard work, craftsmanship and value for what we do.
I love my Invicta pro diver 🤷🏻♂️
Peasant
@@luisespinozareyes1123 if he is a peasant you are snob
@@luisespinozareyes1123 The Urban Gentry is about respect, why are you even here???
@@luisespinozareyes1123 Snob be gone
please wear it on a leather strap to piss off even more watchsnobs😂
I recently purchased various Orient diver watches for my 3 sons and myself, as well as a Stührling skeleton watch for my daughter. The Stuhrling has less history but it's more of a fashion thing for her, she loves it. My boys and I all love our Makos, Rays and Kamasus. Since I purchased them, at least three of them have doubled in price, as I tried to buy the more unique colors and configurations. We're very happy with our homage watches.
Glad I Watched!
I personally have acquired 13 steinharts in the last two years. Love them, each and every one. Well made, well built. Sit great on the wrist.
Same and they're by far the best fitting watches I've owned
I love how humble you are, talking about timepieces: whether cheap or expensive, you still leave room for every watch enthuasiast.
Instantly subbed to your chan.
Hi. I'm new to this and a little bit confused about the terminology. There appears to be a resounding declaration of 'not cool' for replicas. However, as far as I can tell, people seem to be less hostile towards homage watches. Is that assessment correct? If it is, what's the difference between a replica and a homeage? Is it down to whether or not they copied the logo? Is that it?
Not just copying the logo. Also copying the externals.
To avoid the trouble involved with being accused of being a fake/copy/clone, homage makers instead intentionally design in some variations from the original watch features and components. Not all. Some.
OK I have a two year old parnis iwc homage that is THE most accurate automatic I own. Just sayimg
In that regard, the Rolex Daytona is a "super - homage" to the Omega Speedmaster.
You noob
Dear T, it's always a pleasure to watch your videos. I particularly loved this one, so rich of insightful thoughts and arguments, which I do completely agree with! And the T Rex fits so well here... to put it simple, I like to think that it is not what you have or wear which defines you. But it is you the one who defines your style! Your knowledge, your manners, your personality. In the end, what you have and wear it's just a reflection of your whole being. And God knows how complex beings we are! Have and wear what you really want, accordingly with what you feel and really are, and you will never be wrong this way, being simply and truly Yourself. And give all the fake Snobs to the T Rex! Take care, e un abbraccio amico mio. Ciao. Manrico
Manrico!!!!
Great to hear from you sir. I hope this finds you well.
A truly profound, truthful and inspiring comment. You have no idea how much it pleases me to hear this.
Un grande abbraccio anche a te fratello, onwards and upwards!
Best regards,
TGV
I’ve actually bought several watches over the past month because I started watching your channel reviews. I picked up 3 Steinhart’s and the Seiko Tuna Arnie. Thank you 🙏🏻.
Steinhart IS the real deal! Just more affordable, my bronze diver steiny is gorgeous,the quality is amazing almost Rolex like!
Reading these comments makes me happy I discovered Steinhart today.
I currently own two Steinhart watches one Christopher Ward and an Omega you may have guessed the watch I wear the most ! Steinhardt cleans cars ,does gardening, drinks beer and walks dogs ! Omega for sale to buy more Steinharts😎
I have a Steinhart Ocean one 39 and love it . Not a cheap watch at all .
Another quality upload TGV, my first automatic watch was the Invicta Pro Diver, I lusted after a Submariner after wearing my friends but like many couldn't justify the price tag. I have absolutely no regrets as my research into the NH35 movement opened many doors and led me down the path I am on now, I'll soon be replacing it with a Glycine Combat Sub. I'd wear an invicta, alpha or parnis any day over the likes of Emporio Armani, DW, MVMT, Michael Kors etc
I’ve always really liked watches growing up, but this channel has really helped open my mind and interest into the history of the companies and specifics watches. I’m not a collector, but I know I want to start and I’m glad I came across these videos. Hoping to get an Omega, Breitling, or maybe a Tudor in the next few years.
Bravo TGV! This is one of my favorite of your videos. I decided to have a look as I contemplate purchasing a Steinhart pepsi. I’m a well-educated medical professional who chose a public health career. Of course this doesn’t match up well to my Rolex ambitions! But your kind words give a sense of nobility to those of us who love horology but reject the snobbery. Your words are wise and speak to your obviouslu strong moral fiber. Cheers!
Thank you again for being an inspiration! I have listened again this video today after just ordering my Invicta Pro Diver! I have some great pieces in my collection recommended by you and I enjoy every one of them! Much appreciating what you do and the passion you so genuinly share! Happy new year for 2023!
I own the exact Invicta pro diver it's an excellent watch and I have no complaints with it, I use it as a beater watch for when I don't want to damage one of my Seiko watches. At the end of the day as long as the watch has a reliable movement and it makes you smile when you look at it then that's all it needs to do, the Invicta has a Seiko movement and I am a Seiko nut, have been from a teenager, I am now 49 so I would rather have an Invicta pro diver than a Rolex because I can afford to buy a new motorcycle instead, and that's exactly what I did, and my Kawasaki W800 turns more heads than a Rolex. Great video glad to see and hear common sense.
I started my watch collection with a Casio CA-53w and then I found an original DBC-600 at a thrift shop for 5 bucks (battery was dead) that’s when I started collecting Casio digital watches. A while back I got an itch for a diver. However, I don’t have even 200 dollars to spend on a watch let alone in the thousands. So I made the biggest watch purchase and bought a Casio Duro after seeing your beater watch video. (Ironically it’s my “luxury” watch after I put a steel band) point is, I love Casios and I enjoy collecting them. And sure I’d love an Omega but I have fun collecting and fixing Casios. And more importantly I love giving away my Casios because they can bring so much joy and nostalgia, and for less than $20 you can’t beat that. So I appreciate what you said at the end of the video. If you aren’t enjoying it, then what’s the point?
Duro on steel... NICE!
I was looking at purchasing a 'Duro' but as I have a small wrist size it was too large. I did however buy a Casio MTD1053D diver which is 40mm on a stainless steel bracelet with much the same specs. Great watches and comfortable on the wrist, really love it. I like you enjoy Casio watches, they are great value for money and do the job they are supposed to.
Well said. I own a Steinhart Ocean One 39. My grail watch would be a Rolex Submariner of course. But at the prices I've seen lately, even a used Sub is a bit out of my budget. Now looking looking at what you get with a Steinhart, anyone who does their homework would be hard pressed to find a greater value for their money. About the only watch I would consider to be of equal value in terms of money spent would be the Oris Aquis. For me, this piece would be the high end of what I could afford. The only thing that has prevented me from planning on buying it is that Oris has decided to go with the larger 43mm case, (hence my 39mm Steinhart). I feel, as does TGV does, that the watch community is a very diverse group of people all linked together by their love of timepieces. Wear what you love and can afford. As with any "luxury" item, no one should ever place themselves or their loved ones in hock just to say I own a "enter name brand here". Cheers!
Homage watches are for people like me, who can't afford the real thing!
Unless your buying fake watches even a homage could be considered the real thing, After all it aint fake
I am 14 years old and completely in to watches. i own watches from 50$ to 2000$ and just bought a Parnis GMT 12. it is one of the best value watches out there, it may homage the Rolex GMT Master II, but it is Great!
Homages get too much hate.
@Brian_44 big birthday cards or selling something he shouldn't be to kids is my guess but maybe he does work for his uncle or something
if Invicta was founded in 1837 and Rolex was founded in 1920, just saying...
@gemini232003 thats actually true
Here's the problem I have with this conversation....and with brands like Invicta, Seiko, and others. The issue is that you have quality mixed with garbage. You can't just go out and buy any Invicta, and you can't just go out and buy any Seiko. You might pick up a good one, or you might pick up a hunk of junk. You can't really make any good decisions based on price either because a somewhat expensive Invicta might be trash compared to an $80 Seiko and vice versa (not just these brands but dozens of brands). This is what makes something like a Rolex always a sure bet....you know when you buy a Rolex there's no fkn up. With so many brands these days and so much disparity between the good and bad models they make, you have to be a god damned professional researcher in order to determine the best place to put your money. It's insane that you literally have to spend 3-4 weeks to accurately assess the market and research the products in detail in order to make sure you buy a timepiece rather than a piece of stainless steel (which....lets face it ...is what so many watches of today are...a hunk of stainless steel) So sadly what you end up with is people throwing hundreds, or thousands of dollars, or in ProducerMichael's case for example HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS of dollars around having no clue what they are buying.
Thankfully, we have people like The Urban Gentry and others who inform us of what is good and what is bad, and why so we don't make bad decisions.
@@Michael-ot9bk Rolex just show what a genuine swiss made watch cost. The other swiss can be made in China and just put together in Switzerland. 51% must be swiss produced and 60% of the production cost must be in Switzerland to call it swiss. So if they charge 1000€ for assembly and quality control on a 100€ chinese manufacture it's a swiss watch. The japanese are different when it comes to honour and it's history in metalworks etc, so a JDM Seiko we can be sure is made in Japan by Seiko. This doesen't make the Rolex "better" than a Seiko.
@@Michael-ot9bk well everyone has an opinion and both you and urban gentry believe homage watches are not the ones to buy now I like watches and I have a lot from citizen seiko casio I like the looks of a rolex submarine but I cant afford thousands on a watch so I buy one that has the looks but much cheaper .and as most watch people would point out who actually notices the watch but only watch enthusiasts.as long as you like the watch you are wearing then that is what really matters .
This may be your best video yet ! I appreciate the thought that went into it.
Thank you Stefanie, very much appreciated.
Best regards,
TGV
Loved the dinosaur cohost. Please! Never grow up.
Great video I love how you turn the negatives into positives also I bought a Seiko sea urchin with black bezel (edit: I mean dial) to start off my collection which is a homage watch it looks similar to the Rolex submariner but I'm in love with it and one of my favourite features is it's glass back so I can see everything moving and working inside. To anyone reading this you have no idea how much happier you will be when you wear a watch your passionate about instead of a mobile phone.
Thank you so much for sharing that, I love the Sea Urchin, I might have to review it one day.
Onwards and upwards my friend!
Best regards,
TGV
I bought one a couple months ago too, I do love it.
But... The painting on the bezel puts me off, the only kinda thing that at a glance (without looking too hard) makes it noticeably a homage watch. The paint just isn't clean, would have been cool to have an etched bezel, for maybe a £100 extra or something.
Chris Brooks hmm I don't see an issue with the Paint but perhaps I dont have as fine of an eye as you ;)
especially with a fifty five fathoms dial from either dagaz or yobokies....... I love mine
What I've notice as of late, is that many homage watch maker's are using better quality materials than those found on some of the originals, especially with crystals, bezels, crowns, dials, etc. I found this to be true with some Seiko models. For example; Steel Diver, makes a beautiful homage of the Seiko " Captain Willard". The Seiko original Willard has a hardlex crystal and aluminum bezel insert, where as the Steel Diver, "Deep Ocean". Willard homage has an ARC sapphire crystal and ceramic lumed bezel insert, and the overall lume on the watch is very good, lasting as long or longer than some Seiko PADI's I've owned. Now I know the Seiko Willard has a higher end Seiko movement, But I thing the Seiko NH35A that is in the Steel Diver will suit me just fine, as it is an excellent movement regardless of the lower cost.
So, did I spend $1000.00 USD, to get the Seiko, or $135.00 USD for the Steel Diver? Actually, I have two Steel Diver Willards, one in black and one in green, and an extra $750.00 USD, in my pocket!
The problem is.....and the way how I view this whole “Homage” issue is: 1). If a company borrowed/ used/ mimicked a particular product/watch model after an original design or watch model from others. The homage version needed to be an improvement, better or given more than the original......then it is a great honoring or paying tribute to the original. I see absolutely nothing wrong with it. But if the “homage” version is in anyway shape or form that worsen, less, or poorly put together with lousy craftsmanship compare to the original....then that is an absolutely insult and yes, you should not buy it. I bought a Seiko King turtle 6309 homage and not only it came with sapphire crystal, nicer polish, better Seiko movement, nicer strap, much nicer dial finish.....the most important thing---> completely perfectly aligned chapter ring and everything for less money than the original.....now for that I would not feel guilty and keep asking myself--> why would I waste my time and money with Seiko when they DONT listen to why their fan wanted for a long long time?
Great subject, noble, honest, intelligent comment, love the phrase from the great human actor, Sir Anthony Hopkins, excellent choice!
I have an Accurist quartz, costed about $60-70, perfect spare watch, however my favourite watches are the IWC’s Breitlings and Rolexes, as I tried them on all, and I have felt, and seen the stunning quality of them. This quality is coming from an extra level of care, from the quality of the components, and the consious, highly talented and skilled human work, the kraftmanship on them!
For me that is the most important think in the whole story! The human effort, the precision, the reliability, the level of the talent and skill, knowledge and intelligence and work!
The market is huge and very divided in the therm of requirements and offerings. I think, that basically there is nothing to worry about,
eventhough! That is wonderful, how many ways are there to achieve basically the same goal, as finally everyone can find what they want and can afford and become satisfied - for shorter or longer term, but definitely just for one fragile lifetime. :) Anyways. I love watches, like you, guys.
Thanks for the great great video!
Hugs: Robert :)
T, Great video. Most important words - "Who cares what other people think?". We should all wear what we like nothing more and nothing less. Best as always.
Thank you brother!
Onwards and upwards.
Best regards,
TGV
Great video. I have personally dealt with people who are watch snobs and can’t look past the minor details. I appreciate that you have addressed the topic and have shown that not all homages are bad.
Thank you, sorry to hear you had to deal with snobs, life is full of them unfortunately.
Take solace in the fact your life will be richer and more enjoyable because you are open minded ;-)
Onwards and upwards.
Best regards,
TGV
The Urban Gentry also most humans are pos and only think about themselves
Yeah you can see how that strap is a bit snug on the lugs. I have a tailor that has actually for a small price tailor my nato straps to fit. He will sew in the leather strip to go over the adjustment holes on the strap to allow you to wear the watch more easily when trying to get the pin in the right hole and cut a gradual groove out were the strap sits across the watch which is unnoticeable and stops the strap curving up on the lugs like yours and he will Stich the cut so it won’t fray all for a tenner. Makes your nato or similar look like a much more expensive variation
I'm loving my recently acquired Steinhart Ocean 39 Vintage GMT Pepsi!
Imran Becks picked up any scratches on the bezel yet? I want one, but feel like waiting til they drop a premium model with a ceramic bezel.
that is a great piece you should be proud
I'm perfectly happy with an Invica Pro Diver. Many folks in this hobby forget that being content and happy with what you have at the moment is key for the long journey in watch collecting.
Nobody is addressing the fact that homage watches often have the best specifications in their price range? Its not about fooling someone or trying to pretend. Getting a seiko movement, sapphire crystal, 120 click ceramic bezel, AR coating, C3Loom AND tudor/rolex styling is just a bonus for $200. Bargain hunting is fun lol.
The one time when watch snobbery is ok is when it is been done against Hublot 😂
I have a couple rolexes and omegas. They stay in the safe and for special occasions. The rolexes have increased in value by 40%. Steinharts use ETA 2824, 316L, ceramic bezel, great craftsmanship. Bulletproof. I have three and wear them all the time. The value vs money is lopsided to say the least. To me it’s the best for the price in any tier. When Chevy came out with the Camaro and they called it a mustang clone did that make it a bad car? A watch is a watch. What you like is what you like. Steinharts look awesome and feel great. Wish I had more.
I'm very new to your channel TGV and to the hobby in general. Got to it a little late, I'm just over sixty, but better late than never. Been more into antique clocks up to now. I'm watching a few of your videos a night and I really do appreciate your knowledge and passion, it just shines through. Loved it when you mentioned Thomas Tompion, John Harrison and Roger Smith in a vid I watched last night. I'm looking forward to discovering your 'back catalogue' of videos in the coming weeks and the new ones as they pop up. Best wishes from the N.W. of England.
Homage watches can be a great way to get into prior horological design. I love my Parnis entry level pieces
EXCELLENT PIOINT!!!!
Well said sir, thank you Dave for sharing that,
Keep enjoying your Parnis.
Best regards,
TGV
I just got the parnis 40mm sub yesterday in the mail and I was so impressed by the quality. Really solid watch for the price!
Very interesting video. A good watch is a good watch, period, regardless of the brand.
Its like saying all jeans are homages of Levi Strauss.
So I guess a lot of people are wearing homage jeans! Just a thought.
Good video. 👍🏼
I love my Steinhart Ocean 1 Bronze (green)! And if you look into the history, it was only 1 rare model in Bronze from Rolex Submariner. I hope in the next months buy the Ocean One Vintage (similar to another rarity: Submariner 6200). Why pay 20.000 euro when I can pay 470 for a swiss-german quality/fabrication watch?
When you see a $13,000 Panerai made with a silicon strap worth $2 then go for the homage. Besides, most of the base metal in a Rolex is just stainless steel hardly a precious metal! Ask yourself this....When was the last time you were stopped on the street with someone with a loupe in their hand to checkout your luxury watch because it caught their eye? NEVER!
That Invicta pro diver is what got a watch back on my wrist(and a modest collection, including some Lego watches) instead of using my phone for timekeeping.
Great video as usual T! I can absolutely say, without a doubt, your channel has been a massive influence to my recently new obsession to watches!
Totally agree with your last two points, I'll wear Bambinos or Seiko SNKs any day as oppose to Hublot LaFerraris and Cabestans, watches which quite literally costs you an arm and a leg! (My personal preference, of course)
Curious to know though, about your thoughts on these super high end and super complicated watches, like laferraris and cabestans (to name a few) that are, in my opinion, complicated just for sake of complications, i.e. not very practical complications (This is just my opinion, would really love to hear from you what your thoughts are on this).
Cheers!
Homage watches are what got me into the hobby! I’ve kinda moved on from it but I won’t ever forget how I got here in the first place. I initially started off with seiko homages to the crazy Rolexes but now I’m more inclined to picking up more original humble brands such as Grand Seiko or Rado.
Great comments by the way TGV. I agree wholeheartedly with each of your points. Snobbery is ghastly!
Thank you Anthony, I could not agree more.
Best regards,
TGV
I ordered my Steeldive Tuna and I am happily waiting until it is delivered. As you mentioned before, do your own research before you find the right one. As homage watches were something new to me (I didn't know that something like this exists) I wanted to buy the most rational choice, based on 4 criteria. Design, technical capability, quality, and price. I am currently searching for a non-scuba watch, but this proves to be an even harder job. There is a lot of cheap good looking watches and there is a lot of overpriced branded junk. I don't want to buy a brand, I want to buy a quality watch, that ticks all 4 categories aforementioned. So far I have found Cadisen C8187 and Cadisen C8097. The problem that I have with the latter one, is that "diamond" on the top of the dial... I simply can't ignore it. For C8187, I can't find a review and a video. I am not buying a watch based on a picture or on a promo video. I want to see it on somebody's hand as the colors are rather special. If somebody knows watches that offer the same quality, please recommend them. Special hate for Timex, Orient, Lorriet, Pagani, San Martin and some other watch brands. They don't tick all 4 boxes. PS: I am currently reviewing AVI-8 and Lorus, let's see If I find my unicorn.
Thank you very much for this video! Firstly I though that it will be really video which should discourage from even thinking about buying homage watches. However, I was very pleasantly surprised by your opinion. I wish everybody in watches community would be reasonable as you. I started with this hobby 3 years ago by purchasing Hamilton. I had also two timepieces from the past - Wenger and Zeppelin at that time but there was “just” watches for me. Hamilton has begun my love for collecting watches.
After purchasing other few timepieces I decided to buy my first homage - Steeldive SD1953. I though it would be my watch for manual work which I would not regret when it got damaged. Maybe for someone it is step back in my watch collecting journey but I like it so much that it begun almost my everyday watch. The price-performance ratio is great and accuracy is the best of my all mechanical watches.
In the end, I even regret having them as a manual work watch even at such a low price. And this is also the reason why I can never buy a Rolex except for the price of course. I would be so worried about them anyway that I wouldn't wear them. Obviously I have the same problem with significantly cheaper watches.
The Seiko SKX009 it is a homage of the Rolex Pepsi ??
The Invicta divers are actually very well made and run on a Seiko movement. For the price they can't be beat
Great video as usual. I own two Stienharts, an Ocean One Green and a GMT Pepsi. Love them both as I can wear them almost anywhere at any time. I also have a Datejust 41 in Gold and Steel which is my ‘pride and joy’. I wear that much less often than the Steinharts, for “dressier” occasions. Horses for courses imho.
I like your style Geoff, I am very much the same way.
Thank you for sharing that and keep enjoying your fantastic line up of watches.
Best regards,
TGV
Wonderful and informative presentation!!!! I just ordered a Steinhart and NTH watches. The NTH “The Mack” looks amazing and I love that part of the sale price is donated!!!! Cheers and this video definitely opened my eyes for a homage watch!!!!
Shot in the dark here commenting on a 4 year old video but- What is that bumper music between segments? I know it's from a movie and it's driving me nuts!
My Steinhart is brilliant, personally I love it. Its my second ever quality watch (swiss movement) and the first I brought myself.
They make alot of cool watches, you should be proud Connor id happy wear a Steinhart
Like I said above, after discovering Steinhart today, I love these comments.
When I’m dressed up and going out somewhere special I put on my Rolex it feels great, when I’m knocking about I put on my bliger it feels great,nuff said!!!
Great to see Hugo back.
Great video. I really like how you express your opinion with no disrespectful comments and being considerate. Your class just shines through and shows the gentleman nature of your character. Maybe I'm imagining all this and it's just your accent playing a trick. :) Either way, subscribed.
This is really awesome to see. A great "watch guy", one of the pros in the bussiness, saying so many humble truths. Great video. You have a new subscriber!!