Had to laugh when you got to number 5 of things you don’t like. As soon as I saw the dial at the start....😱 “Vintage Diver” maybe more naff than kitsch
Oh dear, this piece seems more Clouseau than Cousteau. You're right, Jody; it would have only taken a few tweaks to save it. Great review. Stay well, everyone!
I was thinking along similar lines. That ETA at +18? I know that is within specs, but my ETA movements (2824-2 & 2893) don't perform as well as my NH35's, despite the fact that the ETA is obviously a superior movement. My point being - I could forgive this pieces negatives at $350USD, but not at $700!
metatech - Great question mate! Please bear in mind that I love NH35 movements. I own a few and hope to own more one day. Same thing for this and other ETA mov'ts. Please also remember I can only talk about the 2824 and 2893 ETA's. I don't have experience with any other Swiss mov't. So..., since I am definitely not an expert on the internal components of either movement, I can only talk experientially: The crown action is unlike any other I've experienced. The closest comparison that I have is a German car. Other cars are great, but the engineering of a German car is just...better. That and the fact that the first time I ever used an ETA, I thought 'Ohh. OK. So this is what the fuss is about!' And that's all I've got. I hope that clarifies what I said buddy. Hopefully someone else with more experience than I can do a better job of explaining the technical difference. Cheers, Anthony.
alextastic I think that text on the dial establishes it as a retro, thus identifying what generation it is. That could be important for future collectors. JAT!!!
The Yema is a nicer version. While it is essentially the same watch, the noticeable difference is the date and the branding, and the Yema has done both better.
This watch really exemplifies a pretty bad trend, putting vintage styled dials/hands in very modern styled cases. It just doesn't work together... A vintage type dial like that should be in a much less chunky, much flatted case with clearer midcase/caseback/bezel segmentation (and thinner midcase and lugs for sure)...
Thanks for the great review Jody! I'm with the Retro camp - not the Kitsch. My Le Jour was acquired brand new for $550 USD (495 euros) from Serious Watches in The Netherlands - great price and great service - packaging was truly top notch with lots of little extras. I have a number of the 1960s/1970s vintage French divers and I think this one stacks up nicely with the real deals. Also, my bezel is spot on perfect - I could send an image if I knew how to attach one to the comment. No issue with lining up and no gap. But I'm also a fan of the Oris '65 and I love my Yema Superman Heritage at 39mm - classic.
Trouble is the Yema equivalent seems to be a limited run with presumably a price to match. That said, this Le Jour seems to have multiple dealbreakers either way...
@@ajidavinhui6152 I'm in the same boat - I just ordered the Yema 63 scales edition today, sent an email to Jody to see if he would be interested in peeling off the stickers and comparing on his channel once it comes in - would be an interesting video!
I like this kind of watch. And I dont have as much of an issue about the "Vintage Diver" writing as much as I have with the misaligned bezel. Throughout the vid I couldn't stop looking at it. If I bought a watch at price I would definitely be returning it.
Just get the Yema in the first place. They are on sale also at present with 15% off and second strap free. Also, their navygraf heritage is the same price plus you get an in-house movement.
I purchased a Yema Navygraf new from the Yema site. Upon arrival I noticed it was missing it’s warranty card... I reached out to Yema and right away they had told me they had run out and I would receive one once they restocked. A few days later I had noticed that the bezel didn’t line up properly at 12 o’clock... so again I reached out to Yema and they told me “we will contact you next week with a process”. So I waited. The following week I was setting the watch and I noticed that the hands were also misaligned.... so for a third time I reached out to Yema... again they said“ we will contact you next week with a process”. By then I was annoyed... because it had been a week from my first issue without response. This was all within the first 14 days of ownership. The following week I had received an email with a shipping slip to return the watch. Not knowing what the process would be once the watch arrived at Yema, I reached out and asked simply: Will this be an exchange or repair. The reply was also clear. “It is an exchange”. Fine so far just a minor inconvenience. I shipped the watch out that same day. It arrived at Yema shortly after which I received an email saying “the watch was received and the repairs will be completed within 30 days”..... now I was properly upset. I contacted Yema three more times with responses like “we will find out what happened and email you”. No response. So again I would follow up and ask. Finally I got an answer, contrary to the email I received the watch was in fact getting exchanged. Now during this exchange I relocated. So I contacted Yema and on two separate occasions they confirmed my new forwarding address... fast forward a few days and I received a DHL notification saying my package was delivered. No package arrived at my home... I opened the tracking and saw that my watch was delivered not to the address they had confirmed nor the address I had initially purchased the watch at but my old apartment that I left two years ago... what a complete sham. The Yema’s assembly/QC was mediocre for the price and the customer service was unacceptable. I’m still in the process of fighting to get my refund.... I’ve never experienced such dubious customer service.
Oh dear, not a good story. To be clear, this company has no connection to Yema other than a historical one. I am supposed to be reviewing a Navygraf, but they were supposed to have sent it to me in March..... 🤔
Oh I guess I misunderstood the relation the two companies had, the similarities in your QC complaints made me assume they were still in cahoots haha but no kidding? That’s actually hilarious. Their service and communication was laughable.... I’d be interested to hear your honest thoughts on it!
Just One More Watch The Yema crew are a bit of an odd bunch. I’ll be shocked if they ever send you a watch to review. I bought the Rallye Andretti and it took about 8 months and plenty of badgering for me to finally get everything it was supposed to come with.
Yeah I agree about the date window position. Although I like the stylized numbers on the dial you've got different numbers on the bezel insert and another different font on the date window which looks messy to me. It would be nice if they could bring it all together and even match the colour on the date wheel.
I wanted to get this watch several months back but couldn't get over the garish date window. You are correct on the date window placement and the chunkiness of the watch! I am surprised about the bezel misalignment! For that price they should be ashamed!
🤔 I agree with the "Vintage Diver" text on tje dial... about that odd misalignment and that space beneath the bezel... I think if we add the weird behavior in the timegrapher, maybe the watch is a lemon or got a very bad accident while being on the parcel to Australia... Thanks for the video Jody.
Love the effort Jody, the "vintage Diver" hs to go the date wheel I could live with but the couple of besel issues make me think about other options but the Yema brand is very under rated overall another excellent review thanks
Fred Amos is a great guy. I own two Bernhardts and they are great watches. I’m even quoted on his website. I would recommend Bernhardt and Fred’s customer service all the way.
Agreed with the "too thick" comment! Also when you turn it around, from an angle that dial seems to be sunk in too deep. I can imagine the 60's original was probably thinner.
I love retro style watches. I completely agree about the date window though. It would look far better moved to the 6. Shame about the bezel too. Overall it just seems a little too expensive given the build quality.
I’ve got the Seacolt and the Hammerhead, love them both and plan on keeping them permanently. For some reason on this one, that “Vintage Diver” bothered me. Thanks for the review though!
You know you're in for the burn ward when the no1 positive is the box. 😅 I think it's like an ugly Oris 65. If I got this or the Yema, I'd always be thinking how i didn't get the Oris...And I noticed the text and thickness way before you said it, just from the video! I think if you want to scratch that Oris 65 itch but can't quite justify the price, there are better options available...like some of the Christopher Wards or Baltic, for example.
Wow...I just might be the only one on this side of the line. Talk about bashing a watch! I purchased the grey dial Le Jour last June. I absolutely love the watch and I own over 40 watches. That being said my experience with the watch has been a bit different. My bezel is spot on and I mean spot on perfect and rock solid. No movement what so ever with my bezel. If there is, was, an issue with quality control you would never know it based on my watch. We all see things a little different and in my case I really like "Vintage Diver" on the dial. The coloring works great with the grey dial! Mine was on the leather strap so I had no issue with the mesh bracelet being difficult to put on or off. I now have it on a grey Barton cloth strap and it really complements the dial! So there you have it! Not for everyone but certainly for me.
Great video, Jody! I wasn't familiar with this brand, but I appreciated that you compared it to the others like it. I have an Oris Divers 65 Deauville and will likely stick with it.
Another insightful review; thank you, Jody. I may be in the minority, but I like this watch. It looks more than vintage, it looks old 😊. Now, I like (and collect) old watches, so this is right up my alley. That bezel needs to be fixed, though... there are many modern watches in this price category that offer excellent quality. Reading the comments, I really don’t understand why people continue to criticise the labeling of watches a-la Christopher Ward, or the use of “Vintage” on the dial of this watch. Surely, this is the prerogative of the creator/artist? I am fine with saying “I don’t like ...”, or “I would prefer it if ...”; but labeling someone’s design as “bad” is poor form, in my opinion. As Jody has said on many occasions, bringing a new micro brand watch to market is a very big deal... a labour of love, in many cases; so let’s be considerate in sharing our opinions on the way in which they choose to express themselves artistically.
Love the look of the watch ! However... how often would I actually wear it ? I'm quite certain I would open my watch case, look lovingly at this watch and reach for something else to wear. At the end of a year, I don't think this watch would get much wrist time.
The Yema version is a bit more expensive but also get some discounts every now and then 1190$, beter executed, drilled lugs, slimmer, you can even choose between 2 sizes of cases... , with a Sellita 200 regulated in-house and with a proper bracelet, so to be honest just go and get the Yema.
Spot on review, nailed it but far too polite ! Why would any jeweller or watch shop want to foist this piece of near rubbish on a customer ? Even with the discount thrown in, no value whatsoever. I just purchased a Certina DS Diver for 600€ new - pisses all over this Le Jour. Perfectly executed, perfectly functional, almost perfect time-keeping and looks the part. Returning to the drawbacks of the Le Jour, I think the buck ought to stop with the retailers and distributors, they are the people who are supposed to be expert and knowledgeable, or at least we, the customer, expect them to be, and the retail points and distributors have at least some access to the manufacturers' ears.
I got the black one like 4 months ago. I like vintage looking divers. It doesn’t get that much wrist time but it definitely has that look if thats what youre looking for. super nice box and packaging for sure.
Nice review. I think they almost got it right. I like it but would probably go for 2 Lugyou built watch with the p5000 movement or a higher range Seiko or Orient and be just an happy. Any way great review as always Jody. Thanks.
Dial very reminiscent of the Oris diver 65, got a lovely size and design, and lovely looking strap! However.... personally not a fan of the blue, but that bezel and the "Vintage diver" text really kill it. Edit: wrote the comment before you went into all the direct comparisons with the Oris haha
Jody. Not related to this video but have you heard of shark by a brand named freestyle? They are surf watches that look like g shocks. Living down under, thought it may be up your street to have a look at one of these. They have a massive variety of colours aswell and the buttons can be pressed underwater.
Agree with you on the date. Either move the window or cut it in a trapezoidal shape like on the last gen of the Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra. Real shame about the bezel too
Sorry guys, but I actually ❤ Le Jour! When I happen to see one of their models, I get a some kind of happy, jolly feeling, because they look so sharp and they have great color ways. Yes, maybe they tend to appear just a little bit kitschy, but I don’t think they are. And “Vintage Diver”? It doesn’t need to be mentioned, but I like how it adorns the dial. Cheers from The Netherlands!
It's a beautiful watch, really love the blue dial. But i remember, why i haven't looked closer. Because the same money will get a Certina DS PH200M. Which woul be my choice.
Keep up the good work on reviews, I have buying watches on your recommendation all great no grips. Just asking you to review the steeldive brand, on paper ,their price and specification looks awesome . Keep up the great work
They nailed it, a crown guarded Omega. Case back captured the OG feel. The hideous Sparkle bracelet without endlinks would be destroyed by a navy Z-Seiko or even sweeter a pressed linked Jubi. I would prefer two turtles. Unreal JOMW.
Maybe it's the most honest vintage diver. It kinda looks like 60's quality. :-) I don't like the big Orisque indicies but the mesh is the real kitsch for me.
I like it all things considered. Interesting take though in terms of treading the retro/kitsch line. In terms of accuracy I’d be disappointed with that performance from a brand spanker but the 2824 is easily regulated, so not a deal breaker. Good vid as always Jody, top bloke
Hmmmmm... interesting take on both the cons and pros. I am sure that you are being heard because the reasons are ... well, reasonable enough. And after all you have many followers and views as well and companies should give an extra thought about their products. Anyway. Great review as always. Keep it up mate.
It looks to me like the date would have fit inside a trapezoidal indices to match the 6 and 9, also could have given a lume border to match the design of the rest of the dial. And no need for the "vintage diver" script either. Nice looking watch though, not my cup of tea, but it's nice.
Sounds like your negatives are out weighting the positives. So just send it to me Jody I’ll look after it for you😂😂 Nice vid as always nice watch too. I see your back in the Charger Tee. Stay safe and well everyone👍
First, Fred Amos is top notch and I like all four of my Bernhardt's. As to your niggles, you're spot on but I can forgive some of them. The date aesthetics, for example, get a pass from me because it's faithful to the original, even though there are better ways to do it. "Vintage Diver" on the dial, well, that's less than ideal, but it IS the model name, so, meh. What I really dislike, though, is that it's needlessly thick. Thanks, Jody. You nailed it again.
Yep. 100% agree with your summary/pluses/minuses. Close but not quite is my summary. The words "vintage diver" on the dial make it a no no for me. Perhaps leJour are going to make a variety of watches with the stated style/purpose on the dial ie "everyday beater" , "nice going out watch" etc etc??
it's all been said before me and i own several old lejour and i like the old styles but have to agree a bit kitchy and the bezel lineup would drive me nuts
I think The first Chronograph I had was a Lejour - a very fine heavy duty accurate timepiece that got damaged when I was in the Military - helicopter went down. It was a great timepiece! I never saw anything like you showed. I would invest in something else
From what I understand back in the day Lejour were selling rebranded watches from several manufacturers. They had a line of chronographs with the Valjoux 7750 that were made by Heuer and look identical to the Heuer Pasadena. So there’s a good chance the chrono you had wasn’t a rebranded Yema, but was a rebranded Heuer watch.
Great review Jody. Was wondering if you had any plans to review a LIP? The watch face of the Le Jour / Yema has a passing resemblance to the LIP Nautic Ski. Was curious if they were any good.
Nice review. I have never liked when watch companies actually put the word vintage on the watch face itself. Like a shoe company putting 'fashionable'. Just seems kitsch as you say. Personally I prefer yema. Waiting though on the new Nivada.. (cronon)
I agree on the date criticism. If it's got to be on the right, at least push it over like Yema. It would be better if the frame around it matched the style of the other markers once moved as well. The blue looks great, and I don't mind the Vintage Diver script. However, that bright blue is a bit much on a few of those other colorways you showed. It should be changed to better match. The thickness criticism is spot on, but probably wouldn't be a deal breaker for me. That bracelet is quite sharp looking. I would hope for a bit more accuracy when paying for something Swiss. I would be less disappointed by that if it was indeed an NH35 inside.
Hi Jody, great video! I have on order the Yema Superman Heritage 63 Scales edition - I've sent you an email in the event that you're interested in peeling off the stickers and reviewing it to compare with this watch. :)
Ventures too deep into kitsch for me. While "Vintage Diver" doesn't automatically disqualify it (& could be understandable if they had models signed "Diver" or "Modern Diver") that it's on both the dial & caseback written in a the font directly from 1950s malt shop Americana sure does. There's something amiss to my eye with the arabic numerals on the cardinal indices when compared to the execution of the Oris 65 & forthcoming Yema 63 that it shares that style cue with too.
Hey Jody, finally you have gotten a watch in from Fred Amos, even though it's not a watch that he makes. I agree the LeJour is a decent watch, but perhaps a bit too pricey. The positive is it has an ETA movement. I have been pushing Bernhardt Watch Co. for quite some time. I would love to see you get a Corsair watch from them for a review. I believe you'll find it a really nice watch for the money. Thanks
Great video. I had the same problems with the watch just looking at the first pic. Terrible execution of a remake in my opinion and for the money, I think there are much better options.
The Newmark 71 does this vintage look with better features and for less money. It has the 12, 3. 6 and 9 numerals imbedded within the super bright X-1 lume plots, which is a feature I really like. It's available with or without a date window, but the date models position the date window at the 6 o'clock position while still retaining most of the numbered lume plot. Newmark beats both Yema, and Oris by providing a fully X-1 lumed (both numerals and markers) 39.5mm ceramic bezel and a unique and very handsome 20mm escalator-link stainless bracelet. The Newmark 71 comes in black, blue and silver dials and with 12 hour or dive bezels. Newmark reportedly only made 300 examples, which quickly sold out, but they come up on eBay from time to time. - And nowhere on the Newmark 71 does it say "vintage".
A very good review, i like the history, i like the improved lume, i like the mesh, and i'm even o.k. with the date, (but i certainly see your point), but the dealbreaker are the hands. The minute hands really needs to be prominent, and the hour hand needs to be smaller or shorter with an end that tells us its the hour hand. The "vintage diver" script sends this watch well into the kitch universe. Thank you but i'll pass and get the Yema.
Certainly not the worst watch I've seen, particularly the grey dial. Obviously it's more affordable than the Yema version. But it does look a lot cheaper than that version. For the money I would personally be going for the Yema Navygraf if I wanted a vintage diver, or have a look around at prices of Zodiac Sea Wolf's if you like the design
If you want to not be kitsch, don't write the word 'vintage' on the dial...
Agreed!
... and not to split that infinitive. 😁
Had to laugh when you got to number 5 of things you don’t like. As soon as I saw the dial at the start....😱 “Vintage Diver” maybe more naff than kitsch
Diver 60 or something like that would be more fitting.
Just any one of your negatives would be a deal breaker. Swiss made with lop-sided bezel that doesn't line up??.... Don't walk. Run.
Yeah, the bezel is a big fat NO. Cheers mate!
Oh dear, this piece seems more Clouseau than Cousteau.
You're right, Jody; it would have only taken a few tweaks to save it. Great review. Stay well, everyone!
Thanks David!
LOL Clouseau vs Cousteau ... loved that line.
It would be a fun retro watch $250 or so. For $700 not so much
I was thinking along similar lines. That ETA at +18? I know that is within specs, but my ETA movements (2824-2 & 2893) don't perform as well as my NH35's, despite the fact that the ETA is obviously a superior movement.
My point being - I could forgive this pieces negatives at $350USD, but not at $700!
@@pierresangeorg2286 Of course, I meant purely from an aesthetics point of view. The specs are worth the $700, the looks aren't.
@@anthonysmith2982 What makes ETA a superior movement here besides that it's Swiss?
Pedrito Savonaro - I paid $249 for a Certina DS Podium at the start of April this year.
metatech - Great question mate!
Please bear in mind that I love NH35 movements. I own a few and hope to own more one day. Same thing for this and other ETA mov'ts.
Please also remember I can only talk about the 2824 and 2893 ETA's. I don't have experience with any other Swiss mov't.
So..., since I am definitely not an expert on the internal components of either movement, I can only talk experientially:
The crown action is unlike any other I've experienced.
The closest comparison that I have is a German car.
Other cars are great, but the engineering of a German car is just...better.
That and the fact that the first time I ever used an ETA, I thought 'Ohh. OK. So this is what the fuss is about!'
And that's all I've got.
I hope that clarifies what I said buddy.
Hopefully someone else with more experience than I can do a better job of explaining the technical difference.
Cheers, Anthony.
“Vintage Diver” text alone would be an absolute deal-breaker for me.
I must admit I think it’s lovely all except the vintage diver text 👍 thanks Jody good review
Agreed, it's a shame, that text kinda ruins everything.
alextastic I think that text on the dial establishes it as a retro, thus identifying what generation it is. That could be important for future collectors. JAT!!!
The Yema is a nicer version. While it is essentially the same watch, the noticeable difference is the date and the branding, and the Yema has done both better.
This watch really exemplifies a pretty bad trend, putting vintage styled dials/hands in very modern styled cases. It just doesn't work together... A vintage type dial like that should be in a much less chunky, much flatted case with clearer midcase/caseback/bezel segmentation (and thinner midcase and lugs for sure)...
You nailed it.
I cringed when he turned the watch on its side and I saw that case profile
Watch companies and designers need to read and understand this comment
to write "Vintage diver" in the dial I don' t like at all
Thanks for the great review Jody! I'm with the Retro camp - not the Kitsch. My Le Jour was acquired brand new for $550 USD (495 euros) from Serious Watches in The Netherlands - great price and great service - packaging was truly top notch with lots of little extras. I have a number of the 1960s/1970s vintage French divers and I think this one stacks up nicely with the real deals. Also, my bezel is spot on perfect - I could send an image if I knew how to attach one to the comment. No issue with lining up and no gap. But I'm also a fan of the Oris '65 and I love my Yema Superman Heritage at 39mm - classic.
I would get the yema instead really......
Trouble is the Yema equivalent seems to be a limited run with presumably a price to match. That said, this Le Jour seems to have multiple dealbreakers either way...
Well said. For me though, this watch is not cheap enough yet to make my heart switch and i would rather pay the extra the Yema.
@@ajidavinhui6152 I'm in the same boat - I just ordered the Yema 63 scales edition today, sent an email to Jody to see if he would be interested in peeling off the stickers and comparing on his channel once it comes in - would be an interesting video!
I don't think 'Swiss made' means anything these days
Apparently H Moser don't put it on the dial any more because they think the currency of the term is so devalued.
I’ve got a diver’s watch. I had to drown him to get it.
I like this kind of watch. And I dont have as much of an issue about the "Vintage Diver" writing as much as I have with the misaligned bezel. Throughout the vid I couldn't stop looking at it. If I bought a watch at price I would definitely be returning it.
Great video Jody! It’s a nice looking watch! It’s that Oris 65 look!;)
Just get the Yema in the first place. They are on sale also at present with 15% off and second strap free. Also, their navygraf heritage is the same price plus you get an in-house movement.
I like the gray dial. Agree with your observations. The Vintage diver text is a definite headache. 😁
I purchased a Yema Navygraf new from the Yema site. Upon arrival I noticed it was missing it’s warranty card... I reached out to Yema and right away they had told me they had run out and I would receive one once they restocked. A few days later I had noticed that the bezel didn’t line up properly at 12 o’clock... so again I reached out to Yema and they told me “we will contact you next week with a process”. So I waited. The following week I was setting the watch and I noticed that the hands were also misaligned.... so for a third time I reached out to Yema... again they said“ we will contact you next week with a process”. By then I was annoyed... because it had been a week from my first issue without response. This was all within the first 14 days of ownership. The following week I had received an email with a shipping slip to return the watch. Not knowing what the process would be once the watch arrived at Yema, I reached out and asked simply: Will this be an exchange or repair. The reply was also clear. “It is an exchange”. Fine so far just a minor inconvenience. I shipped the watch out that same day. It arrived at Yema shortly after which I received an email saying “the watch was received and the repairs will be completed within 30 days”..... now I was properly upset. I contacted Yema three more times with responses like “we will find out what happened and email you”. No response. So again I would follow up and ask. Finally I got an answer, contrary to the email I received the watch was in fact getting exchanged. Now during this exchange I relocated. So I contacted Yema and on two separate occasions they confirmed my new forwarding address... fast forward a few days and I received a DHL notification saying my package was delivered. No package arrived at my home... I opened the tracking and saw that my watch was delivered not to the address they had confirmed nor the address I had initially purchased the watch at but my old apartment that I left two years ago... what a complete sham. The Yema’s assembly/QC was mediocre for the price and the customer service was unacceptable. I’m still in the process of fighting to get my refund.... I’ve never experienced such dubious customer service.
Oh dear, not a good story. To be clear, this company has no connection to Yema other than a historical one. I am supposed to be reviewing a Navygraf, but they were supposed to have sent it to me in March..... 🤔
Oh I guess I misunderstood the relation the two companies had, the similarities in your QC complaints made me assume they were still in cahoots haha but no kidding? That’s actually hilarious. Their service and communication was laughable.... I’d be interested to hear your honest thoughts on it!
Just One More Watch The Yema crew are a bit of an odd bunch. I’ll be shocked if they ever send you a watch to review. I bought the Rallye Andretti and it took about 8 months and plenty of badgering for me to finally get everything it was supposed to come with.
Don't feel much attraction for this chunky watch... Glycine, Zodiac or Yema to be preferred sure
I think I prefer my Vostok Komanderski. It’s built better, doesn’t have gaps under the bezel and look at the price difference......😲
Yeah I agree about the date window position. Although I like the stylized numbers on the dial you've got different numbers on the bezel insert and another different font on the date window which looks messy to me. It would be nice if they could bring it all together and even match the colour on the date wheel.
look like poor quality (that Bezel!), especially while the Christopher Ward C65 exists...
I wanted to get this watch several months back but couldn't get over the garish date window. You are correct on the date window placement and the chunkiness of the watch! I am surprised about the bezel misalignment! For that price they should be ashamed!
I was completely unaware of this brand, really like Yema watches too! The vintage diver label kills it for me though
🤔 I agree with the "Vintage Diver" text on tje dial... about that odd misalignment and that space beneath the bezel... I think if we add the weird behavior in the timegrapher, maybe the watch is a lemon or got a very bad accident while being on the parcel to Australia... Thanks for the video Jody.
I like it, but the "vintage diver"... Blergh. I am looking at the Yema Superman, own the Rallygraf and it's great!
Love the effort Jody, the "vintage Diver" hs to go the date wheel I could live with but the couple of besel issues make me think about other options but the Yema brand is very under rated overall another excellent review thanks
Fred Amos is a great guy. I own two Bernhardts and they are great watches. I’m even quoted on his website. I would recommend Bernhardt and Fred’s customer service all the way.
Agreed with the "too thick" comment! Also when you turn it around, from an angle that dial seems to be sunk in too deep. I can imagine the 60's original was probably thinner.
I love retro style watches. I completely agree about the date window though. It would look far better moved to the 6. Shame about the bezel too.
Overall it just seems a little too expensive given the build quality.
I’ve got the Seacolt and the Hammerhead, love them both and plan on keeping them permanently. For some reason on this one, that “Vintage Diver” bothered me. Thanks for the review though!
You know you're in for the burn ward when the no1 positive is the box. 😅
I think it's like an ugly Oris 65. If I got this or the Yema, I'd always be thinking how i didn't get the Oris...And I noticed the text and thickness way before you said it, just from the video!
I think if you want to scratch that Oris 65 itch but can't quite justify the price, there are better options available...like some of the Christopher Wards or Baltic, for example.
Wow...I just might be the only one on this side of the line. Talk about bashing a watch! I purchased the grey dial Le Jour last June. I absolutely love the watch and I own over 40 watches. That being said my experience with the watch has been a bit different. My bezel is spot on and I mean spot on perfect and rock solid. No movement what so ever with my bezel. If there is, was, an issue with quality control you would never know it based on my watch. We all see things a little different and in my case I really like "Vintage Diver" on the dial. The coloring works great with the grey dial! Mine was on the leather strap so I had no issue with the mesh bracelet being difficult to put on or off. I now have it on a grey Barton cloth strap and it really complements the dial! So there you have it! Not for everyone but certainly for me.
Great video, Jody! I wasn't familiar with this brand, but I appreciated that you compared it to the others like it. I have an Oris Divers 65 Deauville and will likely stick with it.
Another insightful review; thank you, Jody. I may be in the minority, but I like this watch. It looks more than vintage, it looks old 😊. Now, I like (and collect) old watches, so this is right up my alley. That bezel needs to be fixed, though... there are many modern watches in this price category that offer excellent quality.
Reading the comments, I really don’t understand why people continue to criticise the labeling of watches a-la Christopher Ward, or the use of “Vintage” on the dial of this watch. Surely, this is the prerogative of the creator/artist? I am fine with saying “I don’t like ...”, or “I would prefer it if ...”; but labeling someone’s design as “bad” is poor form, in my opinion. As Jody has said on many occasions, bringing a new micro brand watch to market is a very big deal... a labour of love, in many cases; so let’s be considerate in sharing our opinions on the way in which they choose to express themselves artistically.
Saying a design is bad is still just an opinion. Unless someone makes bold claims that a design is objectively bad or something
Love the look of the watch ! However... how often would I actually wear it ? I'm quite certain I would open my watch case, look lovingly at this watch and reach for something else to wear. At the end of a year, I don't think this watch would get much wrist time.
The Yema version is a bit more expensive but also get some discounts every now and then 1190$, beter executed, drilled lugs, slimmer, you can even choose between 2 sizes of cases... , with a Sellita 200 regulated in-house and with a proper bracelet, so to be honest just go and get the Yema.
Looks fab in the mesh - nice thing tbh - great review buddy
There are single elements that taking them alone are super nice... But the watch as a whole is the "doom of awfulness"
IMHO of course 😂
You have a lovely sense of humor Jody.
Spot on review, nailed it but far too polite ! Why would any jeweller or watch shop want to foist this piece of near rubbish on a customer ? Even with the discount thrown in, no value whatsoever. I just purchased a Certina DS Diver for 600€ new - pisses all over this Le Jour. Perfectly executed, perfectly functional, almost perfect time-keeping and looks the part. Returning to the drawbacks of the Le Jour, I think the buck ought to stop with the retailers and distributors, they are the people who are supposed to be expert and knowledgeable, or at least we, the customer, expect them to be, and the retail points and distributors have at least some access to the manufacturers' ears.
Hi , where did you get the wall clock from that you can see to your left ?
I got the black one like 4 months ago. I like vintage looking divers. It doesn’t get that much wrist time but it definitely has that look if thats what youre looking for. super nice box and packaging for sure.
Love that mesh strap!👍
When I saw the box opening and saw the colour of the lining I was half expecting to see a ballerina and to hear music.
Nice review. I think they almost got it right. I like it but would probably go for 2 Lugyou built watch with the p5000 movement or a higher range Seiko or Orient and be just an happy.
Any way great review as always Jody. Thanks.
Dial very reminiscent of the Oris diver 65, got a lovely size and design, and lovely looking strap! However.... personally not a fan of the blue, but that bezel and the "Vintage diver" text really kill it.
Edit: wrote the comment before you went into all the direct comparisons with the Oris haha
Too much money for an underwhelming watch.
Missing the wow factor
Agree with your analysis Jody - particularly with regard to the date window. The Oris 65 smashes it!
Jody. Not related to this video but have you heard of shark by a brand named freestyle? They are surf watches that look like g shocks. Living down under, thought it may be up your street to have a look at one of these. They have a massive variety of colours aswell and the buttons can be pressed underwater.
Agree with you on the date. Either move the window or cut it in a trapezoidal shape like on the last gen of the Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra. Real shame about the bezel too
Sorry guys, but I actually ❤ Le Jour! When I happen to see one of their models, I get a some kind of happy, jolly feeling, because they look so sharp and they have great color ways. Yes, maybe they tend to appear just a little bit kitschy, but I don’t think they are. And “Vintage Diver”? It doesn’t need to be mentioned, but I like how it adorns the dial. Cheers from The Netherlands!
Agreed on the silly vintage script. Wont be replacing the Oris 65 bronze bezel you convinced me to buy previously...
The very first word that popped up when I saw this was "tasteless." Which is not a good thing
Interesting looking watch. I like the vintage number font. Perhaps a little thick.
I think it would be much more tempting for $500 - $550.
It's a beautiful watch, really love the blue dial. But i remember, why i haven't looked closer. Because the same money will get a Certina DS PH200M. Which woul be my choice.
You say "fine line", in Queensland we call it "standing with one foot on either side of a barbed wire fence."
Keep up the good work on reviews, I have buying watches on your recommendation all great no grips. Just asking you to review the steeldive brand, on paper ,their price and specification looks awesome .
Keep up the great work
Noted mate! Before year end, I promise.
I waited soooo long for you to address the "Vintage Diver" on the dial!
Great review as usual! Looked at Bernhardt Watches- nice looking and better value for the money!
They nailed it, a crown guarded Omega. Case back captured the OG feel.
The hideous Sparkle bracelet without endlinks would be destroyed by a navy Z-Seiko or even sweeter a pressed linked Jubi.
I would prefer two turtles. Unreal JOMW.
Happy to pass this by.
Looks great on wrist 👍
Maybe it's the most honest vintage diver. It kinda looks like 60's quality. :-)
I don't like the big Orisque indicies but the mesh is the real kitsch for me.
Looks good at least a different kind of design with a real vintage inspiration.
I like it all things considered. Interesting take though in terms of treading the retro/kitsch line. In terms of accuracy I’d be disappointed with that performance from a brand spanker but the 2824 is easily regulated, so not a deal breaker. Good vid as always Jody, top bloke
I think it looks a little like that Oris Jody fell in love with, bit tempted to pick this one up!
Don't worry about the Spinnaker "pelican style" case. Those blow-molded plastic boxes probably cost about $0.50 each in bulk.
Hmmmmm... interesting take on both the cons and pros. I am sure that you are being heard because the reasons are ... well, reasonable enough. And after all you have many followers and views as well and companies should give an extra thought about their products. Anyway. Great review as always. Keep it up mate.
For the price how good of a second hand seiko diver can you get.
It looks better in black to my eyes, especially with the black leather strap.
Great tshirt
It looks to me like the date would have fit inside a trapezoidal indices to match the 6 and 9, also could have given a lume border to match the design of the rest of the dial. And no need for the "vintage diver" script either. Nice looking watch though, not my cup of tea, but it's nice.
Rag Man - Great suggestion about the date buddy.
Kitsch for sure and expensive one, keep pushing them Joddy.
Oof. Yep it's too thick, and "Vintage Diver" is the deal-breaker.
Sounds like your negatives are out weighting the positives. So just send it to me Jody I’ll look after it for you😂😂 Nice vid as always nice watch too. I see your back in the Charger Tee. Stay safe and well everyone👍
First, Fred Amos is top notch and I like all four of my Bernhardt's. As to your niggles, you're spot on but I can forgive some of them. The date aesthetics, for example, get a pass from me because it's faithful to the original, even though there are better ways to do it. "Vintage Diver" on the dial, well, that's less than ideal, but it IS the model name, so, meh. What I really dislike, though, is that it's needlessly thick. Thanks, Jody. You nailed it again.
Yep. 100% agree with your summary/pluses/minuses. Close but not quite is my summary. The words "vintage diver" on the dial make it a no no for me.
Perhaps leJour are going to make a variety of watches with the stated style/purpose on the dial ie "everyday beater" , "nice going out watch" etc etc??
A lovely looking watch, not much jars with me on this design, except maybe the “Vintage” logo....also for me the price is a bit steep...
I really like this. Got a bit of proper heritage. A good ceramic bezel, would bring a bang up to date. Could be a winner IF priced realistically.
it's all been said before me and i own several old lejour and i like the old styles but have to agree a bit kitchy and the bezel lineup would drive me nuts
I think The first Chronograph I had was a Lejour - a very fine heavy duty accurate timepiece that got damaged when I was in the Military - helicopter went down. It was a great timepiece! I never saw anything like you showed. I would invest in something else
From what I understand back in the day Lejour were selling rebranded watches from several manufacturers. They had a line of chronographs with the Valjoux 7750 that were made by Heuer and look identical to the Heuer Pasadena. So there’s a good chance the chrono you had wasn’t a rebranded Yema, but was a rebranded Heuer watch.
Great review Jody. Was wondering if you had any plans to review a LIP? The watch face of the Le Jour / Yema has a passing resemblance to the LIP Nautic Ski. Was curious if they were any good.
Nice review. I have never liked when watch companies actually put the word vintage on the watch face itself. Like a shoe company putting 'fashionable'. Just seems kitsch as you say. Personally I prefer yema. Waiting though on the new Nivada.. (cronon)
I agree on the date criticism. If it's got to be on the right, at least push it over like Yema. It would be better if the frame around it matched the style of the other markers once moved as well. The blue looks great, and I don't mind the Vintage Diver script. However, that bright blue is a bit much on a few of those other colorways you showed. It should be changed to better match. The thickness criticism is spot on, but probably wouldn't be a deal breaker for me. That bracelet is quite sharp looking. I would hope for a bit more accuracy when paying for something Swiss. I would be less disappointed by that if it was indeed an NH35 inside.
Hi Jody, great video! I have on order the Yema Superman Heritage 63 Scales edition - I've sent you an email in the event that you're interested in peeling off the stickers and reviewing it to compare with this watch. :)
Ventures too deep into kitsch for me.
While "Vintage Diver" doesn't automatically disqualify it (& could be understandable if they had models signed "Diver" or "Modern Diver") that it's on both the dial & caseback written in a the font directly from 1950s malt shop Americana sure does.
There's something amiss to my eye with the arabic numerals on the cardinal indices when compared to the execution of the Oris 65 & forthcoming Yema 63 that it shares that style cue with too.
Hey Jody, finally you have gotten a watch in from Fred Amos, even though it's not a watch that he makes. I agree the LeJour is a decent watch, but perhaps a bit too pricey. The positive is it has an ETA movement. I have been pushing Bernhardt Watch Co. for quite some time. I would love to see you get a Corsair watch from them for a review. I believe you'll find it a really nice watch for the money. Thanks
Not sure if I can trust the water resistance rating with that slop between the bezel and the case.
Personally I like the shade of blue!
Great video. I had the same problems with the watch just looking at the first pic. Terrible execution of a remake in my opinion and for the money, I think there are much better options.
Can´t choose between "vintage" or "ceronometer" as the kitscher text in a dial.
You should see the packaging of some marathon watches. They're like 5cm x 20cm cardboard lol
The Newmark 71 does this vintage look with better features and for less money.
It has the 12, 3. 6 and 9 numerals imbedded within the super bright X-1 lume plots, which is a feature I really like. It's available with or without a date window, but the date models position the date window at the 6 o'clock position while still retaining most of the numbered lume plot. Newmark beats both Yema, and Oris by providing a fully X-1 lumed (both numerals and markers) 39.5mm ceramic bezel and a unique and very handsome 20mm escalator-link stainless bracelet.
The Newmark 71 comes in black, blue and silver dials and with 12 hour or dive bezels.
Newmark reportedly only made 300 examples, which quickly sold out, but they come up on eBay from time to time. - And nowhere on the Newmark 71 does it say "vintage".
I’d pay the extra bucks for an Oris
I'm with you for pretty much all the likes and dislikes. An interesting piece but not one I'd lust for. Good review anyway!
I'll wait for the Yema version; it should have a proper box crystal if my Superman Heritage Blue is anything to go by.
A very good review, i like the history, i like the improved lume, i like the mesh, and i'm even o.k. with the date, (but i certainly see your point), but the dealbreaker are the hands. The minute hands really needs to be prominent, and the hour hand needs to be smaller or shorter with an end that tells us its the hour hand. The "vintage diver" script sends this watch well into the kitch universe. Thank you but i'll pass and get the Yema.
Certainly not the worst watch I've seen, particularly the grey dial. Obviously it's more affordable than the Yema version. But it does look a lot cheaper than that version. For the money I would personally be going for the Yema Navygraf if I wanted a vintage diver, or have a look around at prices of Zodiac Sea Wolf's if you like the design
That yema is the bomb.
And yet it is so close to this one. A few tweaks and they would have a much better watch. Cheers!
I believe my wife would agree that my nail biting is significantly less disgusting a habit than my farting.