Ran a little late with this one. Combination of some technical difficulties, re-recording, and this being extra long. Since this is a little longer, there is a table of contents in the description. I also took a lot of video and pictures of this one. So you can check out 30+ pics on my website. www.relative-time.com/dragon-at-the-helm-helm-komodo-review/ I'll also be heading out of town next week, so might not be a video until I get back. 😎
Very well thought out, even handed review. On top of that, your production is far above most watch reviewers. And the additional strap notes are welcome and refreshing.
Yes, chunky! And I love it too!!! I'm glad some watchmakers like chunky, high on the wrist watches. If you don't, you will have plenty of other brands to choose from...
Very thorough review thanks, I just bought a Komodo on eBay for £307 which I think is a fantastic price, I was number 7700 on the waiting list so at 150 released per month I was looking at over 4 years wait, it’s the black dial version, not yet arrived but will do in a few days, can’t wait, thanks for the review 👍🏻
First off, thanks so much for another great review just love your insite, observations and over all delivery of your videos. Well I finally got my hands on a Helm! I found a Vanuatu on the second hand marketplace. Even with it's not so fresh condition I still get the feeling of high quality and great overall workmanship that puts the watch of the Helm brand in the upper reaches of the watch stratosphere. It also just makes my wait for the Komodo definately worth the wait, but it's a long one. My spot on the wait list just over 5000! Crazy or what, I mean that's just gonna take forever and ever!!!
Just got my email after years. I think that’s part of allure, the anticipation. Getting the exact one you showed with a light blue strap. And as a long time follower, gotta say - you look youthful here! Lol
Just bought a brand new white dialled from ebay user. Paid premium rate but still nowhere near the ridiculous prices that the MoonSwatches are going for and this is soooo much more. I had registered with Helm but position 8109 or somesuch ridiculous queue position means on balance I'm prepared to pay that lil bit more - and i'm a Brit and you know just how much we love queueing 😂. Thanks for the review. Loved it, confirmed my choice 😁👍
Thanks for the in depth review! Nice looking watch, but have also been concerned about the height of the watch, They need to make version 2 ~3mm shorter in my opinion then it would check all the boxes for me.
I'd prefer that too. Even if it made the water resistance 200m. Yet I think they really want to be making 300m watches. Perhaps it sets them apart from Seiko.
@@RelativeTime Funny - I was just watching your Vario video again (for the third time) as you replied. :) Still deciding if the Vario Empire is a watch to get. The kickstarter price seems fair.
It's a great watch. I'm curious about their other ones now. I heard back from Helm this morning. They wont have any more komodos until late this year. Evidently there is so much of a demand for NH35 movements, they have a 5 month lead time with production.
@@RelativeTime Damm that sucks. I got both the Komodo and Khuraburi at the same time and now am waiting for the Vanuatu to be in stock again. I need to complete the trio!
@@HVG67 Their site says they should have some Vanuatu in stock later this month or early next. helmwatches.com/product-news.html Seems they got some in but put testing and QC on hold while they got the other 2 ready to sell.
I'm impressed that they will sell you anything besides a watch. A long time Invicta fan. I asked for a replacement bezel ring and was told, To protect the integrity of the Invicta brand, we do not sell parts. They insist that I send them my watch for an estimate. Not a free estimate. They didn't say that, other guys tell me its at least $25 + S&H and any parts. When I can buy a new one for$60 USD? Yea, I'm gonna jump on that offer! When I am brain dead. Hey, you asked about removing a cyclops lens.? I hope you didn't mess up yet. I broke the lens tapping with a one side blade. I thought I damaged the crystal. I'd love to replace with sapphire but its a big one. It's about 44mm o.d. So, I used a tiny $5 torch that gives a flame about 1/4" by 1/2" long. Heat first about 1/2" away, bib circles, about 1" around. You'll see a white circle around the watch. Pointing from outside the crown, towards the center, put the flame on the peak of the cyclops. Keep the flame moving in small circles. Pull Bach and poke at the lens with a small screwdriver or knife. If it doesn't pop off, heat for about 5 more seconds. Keep this up. Mine piped off like a tick on a dog after the 3rd or 4th try. No more heat than needed but not little heat as this will heat up everything. Bezel rings are often glued and they use plastic ring seals around the glass that might leak if melted. I think I got my little torch at Menard's for five bucks. About the size of a small LED flashlight. Its actually easy. Two minutes. Cheers, m austin
Havent tried it yet, but that's some good info. I kept the pro diver around to do a mod project on it, but so far haven't had the time. Honestly not sure when I will. Got a backlog of watches just to review. Which is not a bad thing...
Excellent and thorough review! I've been looking at Helm for a while now, and this definitely helps. If I can just time it so they have watches in stock, I'll be all set. Another micro-brand diver I've been looking at that also never seems to have stock available, is Ancon. They're Hong Kong based, but have some good looking (my opinion) "relatively" affordable divers - not as affordable as Helm, though - including an interesting bronze model. Thanks again for the excellent review.
I think Helm does have a mailing list somewhere to subscribe to on their site. Where they email when they are expecting new stock. I'll check out Ancon. Looks like most of their bronze model is out of stock.
@@RelativeTime I just signed up for their mailing list. Thanks for the heads-up. Besides Ancon, there seems to be quite a few Hong Kong based micro-brand/start-ups out there right now - all hocking divers, all seemingly with bronze models. I lived in Hong Kong for 7 years and I'm beginning to wonder if they're all part of the same company. Ha! Some of the others are Armida, Benarus, Helson, and Zoretto. Thanks again, and keep up the good work!
Yay!! You had an add during this video. UA-cam nailed it on my end. It was a 6 minute commercial promoting Joe Bonammasa's new album. I watched every second of it. Your subscriptions are climbing up there. Nice job on the review. A very nice tool watch. Your reviews leave nothing for the imagination. The blue was my favourite part. Last thing, who said disco was dead. The intro music brought back some memories.
Thanks! And thanks for mentioning the ad. I was playing around with the monetizing section and accidentally had it add one in the middle. Took it out, I'm all for extra ad revenue, but not when it interrupts the flow. Glad you liked the intro. I usually go through the DRM free library listening for something that feels right for a video. Not sure why, but that's the one that spoke to me. 😎
Great in-depth review. The Helm is a beast of a watch! Love the combination of the white dial and powder blue indices. Still kicking myself for missing out on a Helm Vanuatu which was going for $200 second hand. You should also check out the Richard LeGrand Odyssea and the Ventus Northstar, which just finished up on Kickstarter (I managed to grab one of these). Also Helson and Armida make great divers too.
I'd like it to be a mm slimmer, but I'm guessing a lot of it is for the beefy water resistance. I'd be happy with 200m, but I think they are set on making 300m submarines.
I have the orange faced version and love it. I also have had the BGW9 version for about 9 months and really have enjoyed it. The thickness doesn’t bother me at all, and I must say, it certainly draws lots of attention, but most of all, it is so much fun to dive with at night. What a great backup to my dive computer.
Nice review! My Seiko Turtle runs at 8 seconds a day slow. I’m a lume junky and that lume is crazy bright. Personally, I’ve found that design issues I worry about are always less of an issue when I wear it, than when I just look at pictures.
I actually emailed Helm about this watch, since the one I wanted was sold out before I was able to look at it. They said they were considering pre-orders for future releases. An interesting diver you might like is the Deep Blue Diver 1000. It’s a 40mm Diver with 1000 ft (330m) wr and a NH35 that can be had for around $150 with there “Deep” code. There is also the Zelos Mako , a very nice 40mm Diver. It’s been widely reviewed so I’m sure most are familiar with it. Finally, the EMG Nemo, another 40mm Diver with a very vintage look, 200m wr, a high-beat true no Date Miyota movement, and a Doxa-style BOR bracelet.
I heard back from them this morning. Said they will have more late this year. Evidently huge demand in NH35 movements. They told me their is a 5 month lead time on any production. I've looked at Deep Blue a few times. They are on my list to check out in the future. I love the Zelos mako, but as you said already heavily reviewed. So I haven't looked at them too much. I'll look at the Nemo more, they have some cool dial colors.
I received mine today and it's every thing and more I also bought the other clasp much better fit overall. Many thanks for your fantastic and truthful reviews.
Very nice watch! Your reviews are always very detailed and you look to all the aspects of the watch, so they are really useful if you are thinking to buy. Thanks for this. Recently I bought on kickstarter a Hamtun H2 The Kraken, another micro brand diver that seems to offer a great value for money. You can consider this for a future review.
I saw JOMW early review of it. Looks really nice. I think that was released the same time I did a Phoibos review. I confused a few people by putting Kraken in my title.
There is a whole lot of value here for the money. Glad I waited to buy this as my first diver. I agree on everything you said except for the bracelet. Mine has very rough milled edges where the bracelet meets the case. It was as if they forgot to sand it. Easy fix, plus I wear mine on the zulu. Great review, love the Raptor comparison.
Beautiful watch! I wish more brands followed this lead and kept logo and verbiage understated. The height of the watch, though, really nixes the deal for me though. Subtract a few millimeters and it's an absolute winner.
@@RelativeTime Absolutely! Most people would be just fine with a diver's 200m, I suspect. And I love the vintage-look divers, would think watch lovers would snatch them right up.
@@evanspivack2714 They are still pretty small. So maybe they are just taking things slow. Hopefully, the success of the Komodo will encourage them to grow more.
I ordered this same version in the first minutes, got an additional stainless bezel and the F-1 clasp which I installed. I’ve worn it just about everyday on a Barton Elite Silicone strap, but just yesterday I put it on the bracelet. I love the look but probably will switch not back to a nato. Exceptional watch for the money I’m so glad it have this in my collection.
I was going to order the same bezel, but wanted to see how much I liked it first. I think I'll stick with the black for now. It's really growing on me. Do you notice any major differences wearing it with the two clasps? I recently bought a strap from The Watch Steward. I got it for my turtle, but it wound up on my airman. I might order another one for this. It's a parachute elastic strap, but it wears a little different then the Erica Originals. Your wrist is directly on the cashback. So no added height.
Relative Time I like the shorter clasp even on my 8” wrist, has more micro adjustments. I to ordered the grey elastic strap from Watch Steward but it’s still in transit, I thought it would be a good addition. As to the height I also wear a Bradner which is high which I don’t mind. I really like the date at the 6 o’clock position. I passed up the Hamtun H2 for this watch and have no regrets, plus I don’t like Kickstarter and The shady marketing and long wait for a watch.
@@csharpewalls Nice thing about kickstarter is you can get some original designs. Yet you never know about the company. My bigger concern is resale value if I get something and don't like it.
Relative Time, tell me I own a Mondragon Angel Falls that is marked Swiss Made and it is not, but it is a neat watch. Also won’t sell on EBay and more they tagged me for additional fees that I should have not paid.
Thats cool looking, but I hear ya. I've gotten in the habit of checking resale prices on ebay before buying anything. Especially if it's just to review, and I'm not sure if I want to keep it. More money I loose one one watch, less I have to spend to get another.
Last time tried to buy one they ran out in about 20 seconds. Unfortunately PayPal wanted me to refresh, and I missed out. I can't help wondering why they don't make more. An ISO rating confirms what other watches claim, it doesn't necessarily mean it is more waterproof. Perhaps I am being pedantic though. I would like to see a Helm with a Miyota 9015, so it can be less deep. I am a fan of Borealis, so would love to see a review or two. Great review, thanks
I'd love to see one with a 9015. Still not sure why they don't make more. I have heard that movements are getting harder to source, so maybe that has something to do with it.
Great review! The biggest down side is availability, and that i had to set my alarm clock to order on time lol, but at the same time you feel that you have a watch that is rather exclusive, original and great value. I was lucky to get the black/blue one. In my opion it looks best on the metal bracelet and it wears very comfortable even behind a desk. I swapped the clasp for the smaller one, which is more balanced, and will do fine for just swimming. Together with my Zelos Swordfish (which has even better/more lume) this is my favourite tool watch.
I knew the Zelos was good, but didn't know it was better lume. Nice! One nice thing about the exclusivity is that if you don't like it you can easily get your money back.
I love the powder blue. Not a fan of the height and the gap between the lugs. But this looks like a pretty great value for the money. I think the term might be "Bad assery," instead of "Bad assity," but to be honest I'm not that practiced in the art of swearing.
They are great watches if they were limited edition I would understand the difficulties in purchasing one they know from the other watches they have brought out they sell really well so why not make more initially.
You would think. They know the demand is there. My guess is that they are a really small company, so they might not want to risk too much capital at once. Plus with 3 different models and different versions of each. Thats more to keep in stock. I asked them when they are expecting more komodos in stock, they got back to me this morning. Not until late this year. Evidently there is such a demand for Seiko NH35 movements, they have a 5 month lead time to production from when they order. So that doesn't help either.
Now that I like rather a lot, for the reasons you outline at the end. It does not wear its over-engineering lightly, and will impose some inconveniences on anybody who buys one just to pose with it. Can't be doing with that James Bond thing of wearing a supposed tool watch with a dinner jacket: either you're sticking limpet mines to battleships or being a lounge lizard, and please select your timepiece accordingly. This is why I lust after a Kaventsmann, purely for a chance at a once in a lifetime Crocodile Dundee style put down: "that ain't a dive watch ... *this* is a dive watch". Obviously I have no conceivable need for such an item, but you know. Anyway ... a rare enthusiastic thumbs up for a diver's watch from me. :-)
I really love the watch for all it is. I almost regret not getting the white one like you did. But I love mine in black. Also agree with all of your criticisms. Regarding the metal band: once I added one link more than I would normally, all was fine. One issue I did have, was one of the screws of the links popped out. I did blu loctite it and that fixed it. Great review btw, I agree on all points.
Thanks! So far all the screws have stayed in, but one was rather tight to get out. But I'll keep an eye on them. I wish they would have made a molded silicone strap that fit inside the lugs. Maybe they will someday.
@@RelativeTime funny thing: I posted a wrist check on Massdrop and didn't realize you can actually see the pin coming out. 5 minutes later my Komodo dropped on the floor! 😲 Luckily it is build as a tank and nothing happened. I screwed it back in and later that day in the evening another one came loose but I caught it early. Probably a fluke but I then just used loctite and now it's fine.
Such a great review brother! Pretty sweet watch I do wish it was closer to 13 mm. Maybe if they would have went with a miyota 9015 movement they could have used a slightly thinner case. Still that is a seriously impressive dive watch! I would love to take a look at it!
Thank you! I would prefer it that size too, even if they have to go down to 200m WR. Yet I think they really want to be 300m watches. Otherwise Phoibos seems to have the 9015 divers covered. No idea how they sell them at that price.
Really? Did not know that. I've looked at them individually and there were about twice as much. helm may need to look into the 9015. I heard back from them this morning about when they will have new komodos. Late this year. Evidently the demand for NH35 movements is so high there is at least a 5 month wait time in production.
Thanks! 😎 Usually I just look through the UA-cam free music library and listen for something that feels right for a particular watch. Not sure why disco/ funk went with the komodo, but sounded cool.
Been looking at a few Mercer watches already. I actually talked with Traska a few times. I was asking them about their scratch resistant coating. I think he is about sold out of his free diver watch. I'm waiting to see what his new one will be.
I think they make beautiful watches and look very tougth and reasonebly priced. My only problem is the thickness. I owned aragon divemaster for a week couldnt stand the thickness. Shame you dont get them for review for free as jody does. Maybe one day
I know what you mean. I had an Aragon open heart divemaster for a little while. That thing is 17mm tall, plus wider. Although almost as heavy. This is much easier to wear.
I assume most of the height is for the improved water resistance. I would love it if they made a thinner watch, even if it was only 200m. Heck I'd be good with 100.
Superb looking watch (especially the white) with a great size. Shame it's as tall as the Empire State building. If the tallness is due to the WR rating I would much rather they go for 200m and knock a few mm off. But 300m seems to be de rigueur these days especially amongst microbrands. Great review as always
300 and some 500m divers seem to be the trend. Maybe it's to set them apart from Seiko. It's honestly a bit overkill. I think only a handful of people have ever dived that deep. The world record for a scuba dive is 318m.
Well made and well presented video and review. Sadly I’m waaaay down the wait list for this piece. Hoping to get one from someone for a reasonable price.
I owned a Khuraburi. Beautiful watch, totally over engineered but just too big. I thought I’d like a 40mm version of a HELM but it’s retained the same height and looks even more ‘top heavy’. I appreciate a thinner movement would increase cost but it would have got my money. I’ll keep an eye on HELM for whenever they do decide to take that route.
I have a couple of NH36, they run at +2s/d when I wear them. in the box they are +3 to +5 s/d, no more. Your values are very strange. +8s/d is not a good value for a Seiko. Even my 7s26 never reached 5s/d. I like the simple pass strap. I never understood the dual pass Natos. Actually I cut all my Nato so they pass only once under the watch. Is there a reason why Natos pas two times under the watch ? I mean other than making the watch bigger and ugly ?
I thought the second pass was to prevent the watch from falling off if one spring bar failed. If one failed it would flop around, but it would still be secured and you wouldn't loose it. Not sure how big a deal that is with civilian life, but I can understand it on a military op. Accuracy is luck of the draw. You may be lucky with your Seiko movements. Either that or I'm unlucky. I think in spec for Seiko NH35/4R is -10 to +20 seconds a day. As long as it's within that range it's considered "OK". Most of the Seikos I have got are all around +15 give or take. Heck the Turtle I just got (that was in the video) is +18. So I'm a bit unlucky with my seiko movements. Although for whatever reason most of the watches I get with Miyotas are all within 5 s/d. Heck the Cadiesen Imperial I got is almost perfect. Maybe a couple 10ths of a second per day. So I've been lucky with those, as well as a few Eta movements. Just not so lucky with Seiko.
@@RelativeTime I wear almost only single pass straps, the watch never slides on the strap. The boucle is always in good position. For the precision, maybe it depends of the temperatures. It's quite cold in Paris, maybe your climate is too warm. I could also see that the precision decreases when I'm not wearing them.
Nodus is on my radar. I've sent them a few emails asking some questions. Some point I will get one. Just not sure which or when. I'm leaning towards a green Avalon.
Yah you have to jump on their site immediately when they open up the orders to get one. I actually sold mine last September. Kind of regret it, but I was buying another white dialed watch and I didn't think I would wear the Komodo much.
Like you said, it’s definitely a summer watch, and great price when you can actually get one. The height would be my only concern. Focusing only on style and not function, I think shaving 2mm from the height would be an improvement. I backed the last Kraken H2 kickstarter. This reminds me a little of the kraken h2 titanium white dial. Kraken being a little sleeker. But even at the 15mm height, I would take the Helm over an skx. Are you going to keep the Helm?
I'll keep it for now and see. I was never that big into divers. When i started this channel I had one, a Citizen NY0040. Now I have 7, and a couple more on the way. So at some point I'll have to cull the dive watch heard a little. Just not sure which ones.
the Ice monster you USED here should be called BABY (ICE ) monsters since it is NOT exactly a MONSTER / TURTLE / Samurai Tier watch and is smaller and probably the LUME less powerful or indices LUME area size is smaller or lesser quality than mid tier seikos like Turtle or Gen2 or 3 monsters
You have a point. Although when doing a comparison shot with 4 watches. I’m trying not to fill the screen with text. Ideally I want to give enough extra information that someone who is curious can learn more. Without burdening the video with too many non relevant facts. Plus, for those that know monsters. If you say ice monster, most know it’s a baby already. For those that don’t, I provide a link to my review of it. Where I mention it is. It’s been a while since I saw a baby monster vs monster video. I think the lume is comparable, but I could be wrong. What I remember however is that they are not smaller. I thought I remember them actually being slightly larger in width. They are referred to as baby monster due to their lower price and seiko 5 status. Either way, a turtle 🐢 is sitting 2 spots over, and directly next to the helm. And as you can see, the lume is comparable to that turtle.
I think I remember hearing that too, but according to the Wikipedia as article it seems to be more about proving capabilities then the design. Although Wikipedia has been wrong before. So who knows
I actually did the Open Heart Dive-master last year, with the Mother of Pearl Dial. Good looking watch, for a crazy price. ua-cam.com/video/Ce-RTdMkbIE/v-deo.html I keep looking at Aragon, but so far haven't picked up another.
I really like HELM watches. All the models are really appealing and the Komodo is no exception. I find myself pretty annoyed (bordering on disgusted) with the company that cannot keep them in stock. I have to wonder what's up with that.
I'm not sure. I know they are a really small company. Took them 10 days to ship my order after they got slammed with so many. So they may just be very timid about ordering too many at a time. Yet when you sell out constantly, I think it would be worth the risk. Heck at this point do a pre-order like every other random microbrand. Then order a giant batch. I asked them when these would be back in stock, they emailed back late this year. Main reason is that there is so much demand for the NH35 movements. They said they have a 5 month lead time on production every time they order a batch. So I'm sure that doesn't help either.
@@deanspeer1 I'm keeping an eye on ebay. Just curious what they wind up going for on average. So far it's fluctuating. It's not as bad as the Timex Snoopy Marlin auto over the holidays. They sold out at $250. Yet some people were selling them for $1000 on eBay over Christmas. Which was insane. No way it's worth that much.
What a coincidence, I've been looking at Helm website the last couple of days trying to decide on which to get. I think I prefer the other Helm Khuraburi or Vanuatu. This one with light blue chunky round indices and chunky hour/minute hands, looks almost feminine to me personally. At least next to the other Helm watches.
Check out the standard black one then. I think the komodo is the more interesting and practical size wise. Not too many 300m divers right at 40m. Yet I think the Khauraburi is the best design wise, although 16mm tall is a little big. The trick with helm is knowing about when they are expecting more to come in, and be ready to buy. Otherwise they just disappear.
@@RelativeTime actually, with the Komodo less than 1mm shorter but 2mm smaller in diameter, wouldn't that make the Komodo look more chunky? I only do free diving and I don't think I've ever passed 10m depth so it's more than enough for me. The problem is as you said, I've been waiting for Helm to actually have their watches in stock.
@@PT111111 It probably does look more chunky. I dive a few times a year. Usually on vacation, so I'm an amateur. Deepest I've gone is around 24m. So 300 is fairly overkill for me.
Relative Time , I owned 2- helm watches before and it’s a awesome timepiece for the $$$. In my opinion it is one of the best micro brands . The canvas straps are awesome .
@@lonewolf30531 I wanted to order a canvas strap for it. But they don't recommend it for the Komodo. They think the clearance is too tight, and it will wear on the strap to fast.
I'd like to see them do a thinner model, even with reduced water resistance. Yet they seem set on heavy duty 300m divers. Great quality, just not for everyone.
Thank you for the review. While you seem to enjoy this watch, i find even my SKX to be chunky at times. The Komodo is way too big, way too heavy, way too useless if the 300m diver certificate stands as an argument to buy it over 200m or even 100m wr watches. Heck, I've been using a 30m quartz as a beater in the sea, for the last summer (I live on an island) and it took no damage from swimming, which is what 90% of people expect from a watch with water resist specs.
Honestly, I think the higher water resistance ratings are a little gimmicky, sort of... No one needs a 300m diver, let alone a 500m one. Even most people that scuba dive would be good with 100m. So the water resistance itself isn't really a direct reason to buy something. Yet it does have an indirect argument for one watch over another. The higher the rating the tougher the watch. And potentially a better build quality. Whether or not you need, or more likely want that, is up to you. As it does come with a compromise to comfort for everyday life. That was the point I was trying to make with my analogy at the end. One nice thing about a divers certificate is the peace of mind that your watch was tested to withstand pressure already. Where with a non divers rating only a few watches from each batch are tested. It should still be good, but it's nice to know for sure.
That is a good question. For most Microbrand owners it's usually a part time thing as they have their regular life. Yet here they know the demand is big, so I'm not sure why. Although at least they aren't doing like some other brands where you pre-pay and wait 6 months.
They are a pretty small company, so they don't make a massive amount at once. But order in batches. From what they told me this morning was that because of the demand for NH35 movements. They have a 5 month lead time when they order a new batch. I think they have an email list for availability. helmwatches.com/subscribe.html They also update their Instagram and product news page with updates. helmwatches.com/product-news.html
Ran a little late with this one. Combination of some technical difficulties, re-recording, and this being extra long. Since this is a little longer, there is a table of contents in the description. I also took a lot of video and pictures of this one. So you can check out 30+ pics on my website.
www.relative-time.com/dragon-at-the-helm-helm-komodo-review/
I'll also be heading out of town next week, so might not be a video until I get back. 😎
These Helm watches are amazing pieces and the prices just make them better!
Very well thought out, even handed review. On top of that, your production is far above most watch reviewers. And the additional strap notes are welcome and refreshing.
Thanks, I always appreciate it. Someone always asks, so I just try to throw all that info in before hand.
Yes, chunky! And I love it too!!! I'm glad some watchmakers like chunky, high on the wrist watches. If you don't, you will have plenty of other brands to choose from...
Lume looks awesome. Date window is beautiful.
They did a great job designing this. I like how all three of their watches look distinctly different.
Very thorough review thanks, I just bought a Komodo on eBay for £307 which I think is a fantastic price, I was number 7700 on the waiting list so at 150 released per month I was looking at over 4 years wait, it’s the black dial version, not yet arrived but will do in a few days, can’t wait, thanks for the review 👍🏻
First off, thanks so much for another great review just love your insite, observations and over all delivery of your videos.
Well I finally got my hands on a Helm! I found a Vanuatu on the second hand marketplace. Even with it's not so fresh condition I still get the feeling of high quality and great overall workmanship that puts the watch of the Helm brand in the upper reaches of the watch stratosphere. It also just makes my wait for the Komodo definately worth the wait, but it's a long one. My spot on the wait list just over 5000! Crazy or what, I mean that's just gonna take forever and ever!!!
Just got my email after years. I think that’s part of allure, the anticipation. Getting the exact one you showed with a light blue strap. And as a long time follower, gotta say - you look youthful here! Lol
Greetings from Long Beach NY. Yeah, this a stunning piece. Great channel!
Thank you! Cheers!
Just bought a brand new white dialled from ebay user. Paid premium rate but still nowhere near the ridiculous prices that the MoonSwatches are going for and this is soooo much more.
I had registered with Helm but position 8109 or somesuch ridiculous queue position means on balance I'm prepared to pay that lil bit more - and i'm a Brit and you know just how much we love queueing 😂.
Thanks for the review. Loved it, confirmed my choice 😁👍
Thanks for the in depth review! Nice looking watch, but have also been concerned about the height of the watch, They need to make version 2 ~3mm shorter in my opinion then it would check all the boxes for me.
I'd prefer that too. Even if it made the water resistance 200m. Yet I think they really want to be making 300m watches. Perhaps it sets them apart from Seiko.
@@RelativeTime Funny - I was just watching your Vario video again (for the third time) as you replied. :) Still deciding if the Vario Empire is a watch to get. The kickstarter price seems fair.
It's all about the chunk when it comes to tool watches :) Great review as always!
Sorry, but I just can’t put it another way: that Komodo is friggin’ dynamite!! Thanks for sharing that with us in a nice review with great shots👍👍
It's a great watch. I'm curious about their other ones now. I heard back from Helm this morning. They wont have any more komodos until late this year. Evidently there is so much of a demand for NH35 movements, they have a 5 month lead time with production.
@@RelativeTime Damm that sucks. I got both the Komodo and Khuraburi at the same time and now am waiting for the Vanuatu to be in stock again. I need to complete the trio!
@@HVG67 Their site says they should have some Vanuatu in stock later this month or early next.
helmwatches.com/product-news.html
Seems they got some in but put testing and QC on hold while they got the other 2 ready to sell.
I'm impressed that they will sell you anything besides a watch. A long time Invicta fan. I asked for a replacement bezel ring and was told, To protect the integrity of the Invicta brand, we do not sell parts. They insist that I send them my watch for an estimate. Not a free estimate. They didn't say that, other guys tell me its at least $25 + S&H and any parts. When I can buy a new one for$60 USD? Yea, I'm gonna jump on that offer! When I am brain dead. Hey, you asked about removing a cyclops lens.? I hope you didn't mess up yet. I broke the lens tapping with a one side blade. I thought I damaged the crystal. I'd love to replace with sapphire but its a big one. It's about 44mm o.d. So, I used a tiny $5 torch that gives a flame about 1/4" by 1/2" long. Heat first about 1/2" away, bib circles, about 1" around. You'll see a white circle around the watch. Pointing from outside the crown, towards the center, put the flame on the peak of the cyclops. Keep the flame moving in small circles. Pull Bach and poke at the lens with a small screwdriver or knife. If it doesn't pop off, heat for about 5 more seconds. Keep this up. Mine piped off like a tick on a dog after the 3rd or 4th try. No more heat than needed but not little heat as this will heat up everything. Bezel rings are often glued and they use plastic ring seals around the glass that might leak if melted. I think I got my little torch at Menard's for five bucks. About the size of a small LED flashlight. Its actually easy. Two minutes. Cheers, m austin
Havent tried it yet, but that's some good info. I kept the pro diver around to do a mod project on it, but so far haven't had the time. Honestly not sure when I will. Got a backlog of watches just to review. Which is not a bad thing...
Excellent and thorough review! I've been looking at Helm for a while now, and this definitely helps. If I can just time it so they have watches in stock, I'll be all set. Another micro-brand diver I've been looking at that also never seems to have stock available, is Ancon. They're Hong Kong based, but have some good looking (my opinion) "relatively" affordable divers - not as affordable as Helm, though - including an interesting bronze model. Thanks again for the excellent review.
I think Helm does have a mailing list somewhere to subscribe to on their site. Where they email when they are expecting new stock. I'll check out Ancon. Looks like most of their bronze model is out of stock.
@@RelativeTime I just signed up for their mailing list. Thanks for the heads-up. Besides Ancon, there seems to be quite a few Hong Kong based micro-brand/start-ups out there right now - all hocking divers, all seemingly with bronze models. I lived in Hong Kong for 7 years and I'm beginning to wonder if they're all part of the same company. Ha! Some of the others are Armida, Benarus, Helson, and Zoretto. Thanks again, and keep up the good work!
Ford Raptor,,,, oh yess.
That was a rather beautiful watch actually.
Yay!! You had an add during this video. UA-cam nailed it on my end. It was a 6 minute commercial promoting Joe Bonammasa's new album. I watched every second of it. Your subscriptions are climbing up there. Nice job on the review. A very nice tool watch. Your reviews leave nothing for the imagination. The blue was my favourite part. Last thing, who said disco was dead. The intro music brought back some memories.
Thanks! And thanks for mentioning the ad. I was playing around with the monetizing section and accidentally had it add one in the middle. Took it out, I'm all for extra ad revenue, but not when it interrupts the flow.
Glad you liked the intro. I usually go through the DRM free library listening for something that feels right for a video. Not sure why, but that's the one that spoke to me. 😎
Great in-depth review. The Helm is a beast of a watch! Love the combination of the white dial and powder blue indices. Still kicking myself for missing out on a Helm Vanuatu which was going for $200 second hand. You should also check out the Richard LeGrand Odyssea and the Ventus Northstar, which just finished up on Kickstarter (I managed to grab one of these). Also Helson and Armida make great divers too.
Nice watch.love the size and thickness
I'm digging it, but damn it's chunky. Surely they could have slimmed it down some.
I'd like it to be a mm slimmer, but I'm guessing a lot of it is for the beefy water resistance. I'd be happy with 200m, but I think they are set on making 300m submarines.
@42treg I love my Ice monster, but that case and bezel look much more like an ashtray then this.
@42treg LOL
I really like the colors and the way they did the date is really cool.
I have the orange faced version and love it. I also have had the BGW9 version for about 9 months and really have enjoyed it. The thickness doesn’t bother me at all, and I must say, it certainly draws lots of attention, but most of all, it is so much fun to dive with at night. What a great backup to my dive computer.
That's great to hear. The didn't have the orange version when it launched, otherwise I would of ordered that one.
I got mine with the black dial and absolutely love it. The height was a little concerning at first but I got used to it.
It's not too bad, not sure I'd want any taller though.
Helm's... Deep.
Nice review! My Seiko Turtle runs at 8 seconds a day slow. I’m a lume junky and that lume is crazy bright. Personally, I’ve found that design issues I worry about are always less of an issue when I wear it, than when I just look at pictures.
Amazing review! Keep them coming :)
I actually emailed Helm about this watch, since the one I wanted was sold out before I was able to look at it. They said they were considering pre-orders for future releases.
An interesting diver you might like is the Deep Blue Diver 1000. It’s a 40mm Diver with 1000 ft (330m) wr and a NH35 that can be had for around $150 with there “Deep” code.
There is also the Zelos Mako , a very nice 40mm Diver. It’s been widely reviewed so I’m sure most are familiar with it.
Finally, the EMG Nemo, another 40mm Diver with a very vintage look, 200m wr, a high-beat true no Date Miyota movement, and a Doxa-style BOR bracelet.
I heard back from them this morning. Said they will have more late this year. Evidently huge demand in NH35 movements. They told me their is a 5 month lead time on any production.
I've looked at Deep Blue a few times. They are on my list to check out in the future.
I love the Zelos mako, but as you said already heavily reviewed. So I haven't looked at them too much.
I'll look at the Nemo more, they have some cool dial colors.
I received mine today and it's every thing and more I also bought the other clasp much better fit overall. Many thanks for your fantastic and truthful reviews.
Thanks. How hard was it to swap the clasp?
@@RelativeTime just two spring loaded pins which they supply with the new clasp wich are slightly smaller hope this helps.
Very nice watch! Your reviews are always very detailed and you look to all the aspects of the watch, so they are really useful if you are thinking to buy. Thanks for this. Recently I bought on kickstarter a Hamtun H2 The Kraken, another micro brand diver that seems to offer a great value for money. You can consider this for a future review.
I saw JOMW early review of it. Looks really nice. I think that was released the same time I did a Phoibos review. I confused a few people by putting Kraken in my title.
There is a whole lot of value here for the money. Glad I waited to buy this as my first diver. I agree on everything you said except for the bracelet. Mine has very rough milled edges where the bracelet meets the case. It was as if they forgot to sand it. Easy fix, plus I wear mine on the zulu. Great review, love the Raptor comparison.
Thanks. That is a whole lot of watch for your first diver. Which color did you get?
Outstanding review of this great watch! Thanks a lot - need to get my hands on one.
Thanks! Coincidentally I got an email last night saying they will be coming back in stock.
Yeah tomorrow is hunting season! To get one of this beautiful pieces.
i would be thrilled to get any of their watches, but at around 5000 on their waiting list, it does not seem likely.
True. They have only gotten worse since I did this.
Perfect analogy with the Raptor.
Beautiful watch! I wish more brands followed this lead and kept logo and verbiage understated. The height of the watch, though, really nixes the deal for me though. Subtract a few millimeters and it's an absolute winner.
I'd love to see them make something thinner. Even if it's less water resistance. Heck maybe even something more vintage or a clean bezel.
@@RelativeTime Absolutely! Most people would be just fine with a diver's 200m, I suspect. And I love the vintage-look divers, would think watch lovers would snatch them right up.
@@evanspivack2714 They are still pretty small. So maybe they are just taking things slow. Hopefully, the success of the Komodo will encourage them to grow more.
Gorgeous watch. I love the big hands. It's a bit too tall, but think I could forgive it
Badassity or badassery? I always thought it was the latter.
Whichever it is, this watch has it. The vertical redundancy is hard to overlook, though.
Once again a great review! Thanks for your video and IG pics.
Dayum you're good. Excellent closing thoughts!
Thanks. Made sense to me.
One of the best watches on your channel in my opinion. Thanks. Very well made video.
Thanks. It was a little longer then normal, so took some time.
I ordered this same version in the first minutes, got an additional stainless bezel and the F-1 clasp which I installed. I’ve worn it just about everyday on a Barton Elite Silicone strap, but just yesterday I put it on the bracelet. I love the look but probably will switch not back to a nato.
Exceptional watch for the money I’m so glad it have this in my collection.
I was going to order the same bezel, but wanted to see how much I liked it first. I think I'll stick with the black for now. It's really growing on me. Do you notice any major differences wearing it with the two clasps?
I recently bought a strap from The Watch Steward. I got it for my turtle, but it wound up on my airman. I might order another one for this. It's a parachute elastic strap, but it wears a little different then the Erica Originals. Your wrist is directly on the cashback. So no added height.
Relative Time I like the shorter clasp even on my 8” wrist, has more micro adjustments. I to ordered the grey elastic strap from Watch Steward
but it’s still in transit, I thought it would be a good addition. As to the height I also wear a Bradner which is high which I don’t mind. I really like the date at the 6 o’clock position. I passed up the Hamtun H2 for this watch and have no regrets, plus I don’t like Kickstarter and The shady marketing and long wait for a watch.
@@csharpewalls Nice thing about kickstarter is you can get some original designs. Yet you never know about the company. My bigger concern is resale value if I get something and don't like it.
Relative Time, tell me I own a Mondragon Angel Falls that is marked Swiss Made and it is not, but it is a neat watch. Also won’t sell on EBay and more they tagged me for additional fees that I should have not paid.
Thats cool looking, but I hear ya. I've gotten in the habit of checking resale prices on ebay before buying anything. Especially if it's just to review, and I'm not sure if I want to keep it. More money I loose one one watch, less I have to spend to get another.
Last time tried to buy one they ran out in about 20 seconds. Unfortunately PayPal wanted me to refresh, and I missed out. I can't help wondering why they don't make more. An ISO rating confirms what other watches claim, it doesn't necessarily mean it is more waterproof. Perhaps I am being pedantic though. I would like to see a Helm with a Miyota 9015, so it can be less deep. I am a fan of Borealis, so would love to see a review or two. Great review, thanks
I'd love to see one with a 9015. Still not sure why they don't make more. I have heard that movements are getting harder to source, so maybe that has something to do with it.
Great review! The biggest down side is availability, and that i had to set my alarm clock to order on time lol, but at the same time you feel that you have a watch that is rather exclusive, original and great value. I was lucky to get the black/blue one. In my opion it looks best on the metal bracelet and it wears very comfortable even behind a desk. I swapped the clasp for the smaller one, which is more balanced, and will do fine for just swimming. Together with my Zelos Swordfish (which has even better/more lume) this is my favourite tool watch.
I knew the Zelos was good, but didn't know it was better lume. Nice!
One nice thing about the exclusivity is that if you don't like it you can easily get your money back.
I love the powder blue. Not a fan of the height and the gap between the lugs. But this looks like a pretty great value for the money. I think the term might be "Bad assery," instead of "Bad assity," but to be honest I'm not that practiced in the art of swearing.
I'm not sure either. 😎 I was just thinking like luminosity as a way of measuring light. Either way I think it's made up.
@@RelativeTime maybe if you rapped it it would sound better.
Just the Watch 😆 Thats the last thing you want me to do. I grew up speaking dude... not much rhymes with that. 😎
Great review. "...level of badassity" oh yeah...
Damn that is a great watch for the money!
My own chunk of badassery currently on pre-order.
Raptor or Helm?
The Dagon Watch
They are great watches if they were limited edition I would understand the difficulties in purchasing one they know from the other watches they have brought out they sell really well so why not make more initially.
You would think. They know the demand is there. My guess is that they are a really small company, so they might not want to risk too much capital at once. Plus with 3 different models and different versions of each. Thats more to keep in stock.
I asked them when they are expecting more komodos in stock, they got back to me this morning. Not until late this year. Evidently there is such a demand for Seiko NH35 movements, they have a 5 month lead time to production from when they order. So that doesn't help either.
"Captain's at the helm"
Dig the baby blue color.
I'm not a fan of divers as you know but that's a good looking watch and I love the colour scheme. Good review as always mate
Thanks!
it reminds me of the Orient Saturation Diver , specially with the beautiful white dial.
First time seeing this review, great review!
Thanks!
Just an FYI, the Komodo now ships with the smaller FC1 clasp. (if you're lucky enough to get one) Guess they listen to their customers. lol
They have plenty of time in-between batches to make tweeks.
Now that I like rather a lot, for the reasons you outline at the end. It does not wear its over-engineering lightly, and will impose some inconveniences on anybody who buys one just to pose with it. Can't be doing with that James Bond thing of wearing a supposed tool watch with a dinner jacket: either you're sticking limpet mines to battleships or being a lounge lizard, and please select your timepiece accordingly. This is why I lust after a Kaventsmann, purely for a chance at a once in a lifetime Crocodile Dundee style put down: "that ain't a dive watch ... *this* is a dive watch". Obviously I have no conceivable need for such an item, but you know. Anyway ... a rare enthusiastic thumbs up for a diver's watch from me. :-)
I have not heard of the kaventsmann before. Holy Crap! That thing is awesomely huge. I don't see width listed, but 60.4mm lug to lug. 😲
I really love the watch for all it is. I almost regret not getting the white one like you did. But I love mine in black. Also agree with all of your criticisms. Regarding the metal band: once I added one link more than I would normally, all was fine. One issue I did have, was one of the screws of the links popped out. I did blu loctite it and that fixed it. Great review btw, I agree on all points.
Thanks! So far all the screws have stayed in, but one was rather tight to get out. But I'll keep an eye on them. I wish they would have made a molded silicone strap that fit inside the lugs. Maybe they will someday.
@@RelativeTime funny thing: I posted a wrist check on Massdrop and didn't realize you can actually see the pin coming out. 5 minutes later my Komodo dropped on the floor! 😲 Luckily it is build as a tank and nothing happened. I screwed it back in and later that day in the evening another one came loose but I caught it early. Probably a fluke but I then just used loctite and now it's fine.
Such a great review brother! Pretty sweet watch I do wish it was closer to 13 mm. Maybe if they would have went with a miyota 9015 movement they could have used a slightly thinner case. Still that is a seriously impressive dive watch! I would love to take a look at it!
Thank you! I would prefer it that size too, even if they have to go down to 200m WR. Yet I think they really want to be 300m watches.
Otherwise Phoibos seems to have the 9015 divers covered. No idea how they sell them at that price.
The 9015 movement bought in bulk is about $10 more than the NH35.
Really? Did not know that. I've looked at them individually and there were about twice as much. helm may need to look into the 9015. I heard back from them this morning about when they will have new komodos. Late this year. Evidently the demand for NH35 movements is so high there is at least a 5 month wait time in production.
I really liked the looks of this but can’t wear a nato on it such a shame as really want a white diver
Great review
Beautiful watch ……absolutely fantastic brand
Love the disco introduction.
Thanks! 😎 Usually I just look through the UA-cam free music library and listen for something that feels right for a particular watch. Not sure why disco/ funk went with the komodo, but sounded cool.
I'm waiting for these to come back in stock! Hopefully I will be able ti get one!
It's one of the best values out there, but you got to be quick when they open that pre-order.
@@RelativeTime I will try! Already Subscribed for the newsletter so now we wait!
If you haven't seen the Scurfa Bell Diver 1 you should look at it. I bought one and really am impressed.
Its on my list to check out. I like the grey dial, just a little concerned about thickness.
That white dial is so cool. Looks good on braclet. Tall but cool. I like date at 6 and part of dial.
The date is what sold me on it. I saw one of their lume pics, and just loved the circle around it.
Excellent review, as always. I wonder if you may want to review other exciting microbrands: Nezumi, Direnzo, Traska, Mercer.
Been looking at a few Mercer watches already. I actually talked with Traska a few times. I was asking them about their scratch resistant coating. I think he is about sold out of his free diver watch. I'm waiting to see what his new one will be.
I think they make beautiful watches and look very tougth and reasonebly priced. My only problem is the thickness. I owned aragon divemaster for a week couldnt stand the thickness. Shame you dont get them for review for free as jody does. Maybe one day
I know what you mean. I had an Aragon open heart divemaster for a little while. That thing is 17mm tall, plus wider. Although almost as heavy. This is much easier to wear.
Absolutely gorgeous
Cool looking watch.
15.2 height is pretty tall. The other dimensions are perfect for a small wrist. This one would be my "sport activity only" mechanical diver.
I assume most of the height is for the improved water resistance. I would love it if they made a thinner watch, even if it was only 200m. Heck I'd be good with 100.
Where are these made? They seem pretty well made.
Well done man.
Superb looking watch (especially the white) with a great size. Shame it's as tall as the Empire State building. If the tallness is due to the WR rating I would much rather they go for 200m and knock a few mm off. But 300m seems to be de rigueur these days especially amongst microbrands. Great review as always
300 and some 500m divers seem to be the trend. Maybe it's to set them apart from Seiko. It's honestly a bit overkill. I think only a handful of people have ever dived that deep. The world record for a scuba dive is 318m.
Well made and well presented video and review. Sadly I’m waaaay down the wait list for this piece. Hoping to get one from someone for a reasonable price.
Hope you can. The demand for Helm has just gotten crazy.
I owned a Khuraburi. Beautiful watch, totally over engineered but just too big. I thought I’d like a 40mm version of a HELM but it’s retained the same height and looks even more ‘top heavy’. I appreciate a thinner movement would increase cost but it would have got my money. I’ll keep an eye on HELM for whenever they do decide to take that route.
Hopefully they are thinking about a thinner option in the future. Even if it lowers the water resistance rating.
Relative Time Absolutely agree, the quality is there. They don’t play safe with the design so why play safe with the build?
Awesome intro.
I have a couple of NH36, they run at +2s/d when I wear them. in the box they are +3 to +5 s/d, no more.
Your values are very strange. +8s/d is not a good value for a Seiko. Even my 7s26 never reached 5s/d.
I like the simple pass strap. I never understood the dual pass Natos. Actually I cut all my Nato so they pass only once under the watch.
Is there a reason why Natos pas two times under the watch ? I mean other than making the watch bigger and ugly ?
I thought the second pass was to prevent the watch from falling off if one spring bar failed. If one failed it would flop around, but it would still be secured and you wouldn't loose it. Not sure how big a deal that is with civilian life, but I can understand it on a military op.
Accuracy is luck of the draw. You may be lucky with your Seiko movements. Either that or I'm unlucky. I think in spec for Seiko NH35/4R is -10 to +20 seconds a day. As long as it's within that range it's considered "OK". Most of the Seikos I have got are all around +15 give or take. Heck the Turtle I just got (that was in the video) is +18. So I'm a bit unlucky with my seiko movements.
Although for whatever reason most of the watches I get with Miyotas are all within 5 s/d. Heck the Cadiesen Imperial I got is almost perfect. Maybe a couple 10ths of a second per day. So I've been lucky with those, as well as a few Eta movements. Just not so lucky with Seiko.
@@BurntPlaydoh Doh! your right it will. An important lesson, never respond to comments before caffeine.
I guess it is to keep it from sliding.
@@RelativeTime I wear almost only single pass straps, the watch never slides on the strap. The boucle is always in good position. For the precision, maybe it depends of the temperatures. It's quite cold in Paris, maybe your climate is too warm.
I could also see that the precision decreases when I'm not wearing them.
@@RelativeTime you should buy a chrono checker it's 100$ in Aliexpress. I'm considering it, will be useful when I will start tweaking my watches ^^
@@vidalroland Eventually I will. Make testing the accuracy so much easier. Not to mention more accurate.
Great watch and meticulous and spot on review. Good job.
Thank you
Looks thick. I like the idea but the thickness sort of kills it for me. Again great review Shane.
Thanks. It’s not for everyone. I’d love to see them make a thinner 200m or even 150m watch.
What if you bought a Raptor and a Komodo? In theory, could you do anything?
The mind is the limit.
Very nice; especially in white. Thx!
You might want to have a look at California-based Nodus watches. They are very good.
Nodus is on my radar. I've sent them a few emails asking some questions. Some point I will get one. Just not sure which or when. I'm leaning towards a green Avalon.
Love this watch, just waiting for it to come back in stock. Unless you would like to sell yours. Great review
Yah you have to jump on their site immediately when they open up the orders to get one. I actually sold mine last September. Kind of regret it, but I was buying another white dialed watch and I didn't think I would wear the Komodo much.
@@RelativeTime Thanks for the info
Like you said, it’s definitely a summer watch, and great price when you can actually get one. The height would be my only concern. Focusing only on style and not function, I think shaving 2mm from the height would be an improvement. I backed the last Kraken H2 kickstarter. This reminds me a little of the kraken h2 titanium white dial. Kraken being a little sleeker. But even at the 15mm height, I would take the Helm over an skx. Are you going to keep the Helm?
I'll keep it for now and see. I was never that big into divers. When i started this channel I had one, a Citizen NY0040. Now I have 7, and a couple more on the way. So at some point I'll have to cull the dive watch heard a little. Just not sure which ones.
Every time I wear mine, I get a compliment.
It's really a great looking watch
@@RelativeTime Just ordered the khuraburi
@@gchard nice! They have them in stock again? Or pre order?
@@RelativeTime Pre order so I'll enjoy the Komodo until then.
Good choice on the color. The height of this one makes me nervous thought.
It's tall, no way around that. Although as I said, a regular diver on a nato is the same or taller height.
I like the looks and think its nice... Im just a little concerned about the hieght... Good review... Thanx
Height is an issue, it's not bad but usually felt a little too heavy. Ultimately it's the reason I eventually sold it.
Awesome watch. Like to get 11 day but first I wanna get my Hamilton Caqui Aviador Connor graph watch.
the Ice monster you USED here should be called BABY (ICE ) monsters since it is NOT exactly a MONSTER / TURTLE / Samurai Tier watch and is smaller and probably the LUME less powerful or indices LUME area size is smaller or lesser quality than mid tier seikos like Turtle or Gen2 or 3 monsters
You have a point. Although when doing a comparison shot with 4 watches. I’m trying not to fill the screen with text. Ideally I want to give enough extra information that someone who is curious can learn more. Without burdening the video with too many non relevant facts. Plus, for those that know monsters. If you say ice monster, most know it’s a baby already. For those that don’t, I provide a link to my review of it. Where I mention it is.
It’s been a while since I saw a baby monster vs monster video. I think the lume is comparable, but I could be wrong. What I remember however is that they are not smaller. I thought I remember them actually being slightly larger in width. They are referred to as baby monster due to their lower price and seiko 5 status.
Either way, a turtle 🐢 is sitting 2 spots over, and directly next to the helm. And as you can see, the lume is comparable to that turtle.
Beautiful watch and a great review. If they could get the height down to 15mm and the weight to around 200 with the bracelet....well.
That would make it more comfortable for everyday life. But they overbuilt it. Especially that braclet.
I thought to be ISO Diver certified, the bezel has to have markings for all 60 minutes... look at all the Seiko and Citizen ISO divers...
I think I remember hearing that too, but according to the Wikipedia as article it seems to be more about proving capabilities then the design.
Although Wikipedia has been wrong before. So who knows
The Helm is beautiful.
Please try to review Aragon "DiveMaster", "DiveMaster 2", or "EVO".
I actually did the Open Heart Dive-master last year, with the Mother of Pearl Dial. Good looking watch, for a crazy price.
ua-cam.com/video/Ce-RTdMkbIE/v-deo.html
I keep looking at Aragon, but so far haven't picked up another.
I really like HELM watches. All the models are really appealing and the Komodo is no exception. I find myself pretty annoyed (bordering on disgusted) with the company that cannot keep them in stock. I have to wonder what's up with that.
I'm not sure. I know they are a really small company. Took them 10 days to ship my order after they got slammed with so many. So they may just be very timid about ordering too many at a time. Yet when you sell out constantly, I think it would be worth the risk. Heck at this point do a pre-order like every other random microbrand. Then order a giant batch.
I asked them when these would be back in stock, they emailed back late this year. Main reason is that there is so much demand for the NH35 movements. They said they have a 5 month lead time on production every time they order a batch. So I'm sure that doesn't help either.
@@RelativeTime I agree, when your watches und up being snatched up by scalpers and resold for twice the price on eBay its time to increase volume.
@@deanspeer1 I'm keeping an eye on ebay. Just curious what they wind up going for on average. So far it's fluctuating.
It's not as bad as the Timex Snoopy Marlin auto over the holidays. They sold out at $250. Yet some people were selling them for $1000 on eBay over Christmas. Which was insane. No way it's worth that much.
What a coincidence, I've been looking at Helm website the last couple of days trying to decide on which to get. I think I prefer the other Helm Khuraburi or Vanuatu. This one with light blue chunky round indices and chunky hour/minute hands, looks almost feminine to me personally. At least next to the other Helm watches.
Check out the standard black one then. I think the komodo is the more interesting and practical size wise. Not too many 300m divers right at 40m. Yet I think the Khauraburi is the best design wise, although 16mm tall is a little big.
The trick with helm is knowing about when they are expecting more to come in, and be ready to buy. Otherwise they just disappear.
@@RelativeTime actually, with the Komodo less than 1mm shorter but 2mm smaller in diameter, wouldn't that make the Komodo look more chunky? I only do free diving and I don't think I've ever passed 10m depth so it's more than enough for me. The problem is as you said, I've been waiting for Helm to actually have their watches in stock.
@@PT111111 It probably does look more chunky. I dive a few times a year. Usually on vacation, so I'm an amateur. Deepest I've gone is around 24m. So 300 is fairly overkill for me.
I would not mind to get in touch with my feminine side with this white version lol
Helm watches are awesome .
Try out the straps also .
Thanks for the review .
I was thinking about ordering another bezel and a silicone strap for this. Leather ones look good as well.
Relative Time , I owned 2- helm watches before and it’s a awesome timepiece for the $$$. In my opinion it is one of the best micro brands .
The canvas straps are awesome .
@@lonewolf30531 I wanted to order a canvas strap for it. But they don't recommend it for the Komodo. They think the clearance is too tight, and it will wear on the strap to fast.
Relative Time possible due to the height .
I have swam & snorkled with countless times w/ WR 30 & 50 m. No problems.
50m you shouldn't have a problem. 30m should be ok as long as it's well built and the seals are good.
I like a lot of things about this watch, but .... the height and the width of its hands seem a bit too excessive. Thanks for sharing.
I'd like to see them do a thinner model, even with reduced water resistance. Yet they seem set on heavy duty 300m divers. Great quality, just not for everyone.
Very nice! 😃
Excelente video, no me quedo muy claro el como se adquirir una pieza de estas.
Saludos.
Thanks!
Thank you for the review.
While you seem to enjoy this watch, i find even my SKX to be chunky at times. The Komodo is way too big, way too heavy, way too useless if the 300m diver certificate stands as an argument to buy it over 200m or even 100m wr watches. Heck, I've been using a 30m quartz as a beater in the sea, for the last summer (I live on an island) and it took no damage from swimming, which is what 90% of people expect from a watch with water resist specs.
You don't buy a real diver's watch for swimming, you buy it for desk diving ;)
Honestly, I think the higher water resistance ratings are a little gimmicky, sort of... No one needs a 300m diver, let alone a 500m one. Even most people that scuba dive would be good with 100m. So the water resistance itself isn't really a direct reason to buy something. Yet it does have an indirect argument for one watch over another.
The higher the rating the tougher the watch. And potentially a better build quality. Whether or not you need, or more likely want that, is up to you. As it does come with a compromise to comfort for everyday life. That was the point I was trying to make with my analogy at the end.
One nice thing about a divers certificate is the peace of mind that your watch was tested to withstand pressure already. Where with a non divers rating only a few watches from each batch are tested. It should still be good, but it's nice to know for sure.
Would be great if you could actually get one, permanently sold out, why oh why don't they increase production.
That is a good question. For most Microbrand owners it's usually a part time thing as they have their regular life. Yet here they know the demand is big, so I'm not sure why. Although at least they aren't doing like some other brands where you pre-pay and wait 6 months.
Great, every time I go on the site they are sold out of everything, how do you buy a Helm Watch?
They are a pretty small company, so they don't make a massive amount at once. But order in batches. From what they told me this morning was that because of the demand for NH35 movements. They have a 5 month lead time when they order a new batch.
I think they have an email list for availability.
helmwatches.com/subscribe.html
They also update their Instagram and product news page with updates.
helmwatches.com/product-news.html
Thanks@@RelativeTime
Just saw this watch now I want one🌚💥🔥
It's great. Although they are pretty hard to get nowadays.
@@RelativeTime apparently so. I just got an email from them saying to get on the waiting list. I don’t know maybe
You should do a review of the Lorier Hydra
I haven't heard about that before. Beautiful dial! Might be a month or 2, but I'll look into that one.