The SOCNET watch thread....

[poison]

that blows. You ok?

[ccorgr175]

...Without having to spend the money on the likes of a Pathfinder series (which I would like one day) any recommendations on a compass equipped watch...say between 50-75 $$$???


2%

[sabasarge]

I'm really sorry to hear that BOFH, I hope everybody is okay.

[jtk317]

BOFH that sucks man. It's a wonder they don't check for some kind of identification with that sort of thing, or apparently don't do so a little more thoroughly.

Does anybody have a suggestion on a relatively cheap watch with 2 timer functions on it? I'd like to be able to do tabata workouts and just have the timer on me and not have to carry it.

[poison]

Does anybody have a suggestion on a relatively cheap watch with 2 timer functions on it? I'd like to be able to do tabata workouts and just have the timer on me and not have to carry it.

No, but if this chime isn't motivating enough to propel you through grueling tabata intervals, I don't know what will:

It is built around typical Japanese hanging bell sound. This was chosen because its unique and lingering sound harmonizes with the natural flow of time and space. Purity of sound was the greatest challenge, and the achievement of the perfect bell sound was made possible by the remarkable combination of a bell system, the use of a newly developed governor and the unique sound escape system that allows the chime sound to pass through the case.

This governor mechanism is a remarkable innovation. It uses the viscosity of air so that the chime sounds at very precise intervals and there is no other sound to interfere with the pure strike of the bell. Combined with the entirely silent Tri-synchro regulator, the absolute silence of the whole movement is ensured and the complete purity of the sound is the delightful result.

http://people.timezone.com/mdisher/seiko/0602/sonneriepr.htm

The top of the line Credor Sonnerie in Rose Gold is over $150,000 and can be considered a grande complication.

[eltrane]

BOFH: the SN of your watch should be on the paperwork that came with it, that at least could go on the police report. That sucks hard that it got stolen. I have a steel citizen diver and it has the SN engraved on the caseback, so I am sure yours (a better model in titanium) should definitely have a SN.

[jtk317]

Yeah, I'll just dust off that stack of hundred dollar bills in my non-existant mansion. HA!

[Sharc1]

I've been wearing an Omega Seamaster for years. Quartz model on a one piece strap. Bomb proof watch. For dressy stuff I put the stainless band on it. All purpose watch If ever there was one.

[redneckjoe]

Gotta agree with the Pathfinder. Daily wear is a basic Tag Heuer from an ex-girlfriend (thats what they're for, right?).
The Pathfinder's compass is accurate enough to get you home, barometer with 24 hour cycle gives you an idea of incoming weather and it is a G-shock watch.
Love it.:biggrin:

[RhodieBKK]

A British company, Bamford Watch Department (http://www.bamfordwatchdepartment.com/), has for some years been "Blacking-Up" Rolex's, Tag Heuer's and other luxury watches.
The diamond-hard, Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) black coating is described as ‘military grade’ in the company’s literature, and the result makes a dramatic change from myriad, ‘ordinary’ stainless steel sports watches.
At eye-watering prices, they have gained a following among the Hollyweird's "tough-men".

These click-thrus allow you to customize the colours of the hands, bezels, etc. Then look at the price.

Rolex Submariner (http://www.bamfordwatchdepartment.com/customise_Rolex_Submariner.cfm)

Rolex Daytona (http://www.bamfordwatchdepartment.com/customiser.cfm)
It may be probably the quickest way to get a SS Daytona but at a price - £15K!
Neat though how you can customize the various elements.
I wonder who putin the order for the Daytona with Russian colours?

Pity Rolex didn't offer this service to those who used them in the services when they were an issued item.

G-Shock & Luminox in black don't quite have the same cachet. :(

[MikeC2W]

Was at a tourneau in Naples yesterday.... New Submariners are looking good, the guy said older models are holding their value as everyone still wants one. The model I looked at was for 8K. Also looked at a nice collection of Panerai.... 0% financing for 18 months.... Had to walk out of there really fast!

What's funny is walking into places like this out door mall, extremely EXTREMELY upscale joint, dressed in a tshirt, swimming shorts, flip flops with tattoos exposed....most wouldn't give us the time of day (stupid sales people). The guy at tourneau was dead on though, first thing he spotted - wife's rolex....then he proceeded to dam near sell me a Panerai. Good times.

[Gumby2/6]

I've been wanting to pick up a GPS-enabled "fitness watch" for a while and finally picked one up yesterday.

Garmin Forerunner 210 with heart monitor. I am extremely pleased with this watch. The functionality of this watch is very simple and easy to use and so far, the GPS and heart monitor have worked flawlessly.

I really dig the intervals function and have been experimenting with using it for body weight workouts with great success. The ability to upload data from the watch onto Garmin's "connect" website has entertained me for hours, analyzing all of the stuff this watch keeps track of and the site is(for us jarheads) very user friendly.

Finally, I really like the fact that despite the 210 being a GPS device, it is by no means clunky and I will have no problem wearing it as an everyday-type watch if I want. So far, the only real gripe I have is that this is definitely not a watch to take swimming(from the reviews I've read), so I'll keep my old Shark Tide watch around for laps.

[Airborne310]

some CWO accidentally ordered like 30 watches and was giving them to some of our guys but he ran out. He said it was a "NASA Dive Watch"... can anyone come by an NSN for it? The unit price was somewhere in the $300's.

[Hoepoe]

I've been wanting to pick up a GPS-enabled "fitness watch" for a while and finally picked one up yesterday.

Garmin Forerunner 210 with heart monitor. I am extremely pleased with this watch. The functionality of this watch is very simple and easy to use and so far, the GPS and heart monitor have worked flawlessly.

I really dig the intervals function and have been experimenting with using it for body weight workouts with great success. The ability to upload data from the watch onto Garmin's "connect" website has entertained me for hours, analyzing all of the stuff this watch keeps track of and the site is(for us jarheads) very user friendly.

Finally, I really like the fact that despite the 210 being a GPS device, it is by no means clunky and I will have no problem wearing it as an everyday-type watch if I want. So far, the only real gripe I have is that this is definitely not a watch to take swimming(from the reviews I've read), so I'll keep my old Shark Tide watch around for laps.
Looks good. I am curious to learn about the battery life on GPS enabled watches.

[Gumby2/6]

Looks good. I am curious to learn about the battery life on GPS enabled watches.

Depends on how much you use the GPS. The specs for the 210 say 8 hours in training mode and 3 weeks in power save mode(the watch reverts to this mode automatically when the GPS is not in use).

From what I gather, if you use it for about 45 minutes a day/7 days a week, it should last about a week before it needs recharging. Since you can charge the watch via USB, it will charge simultaneously as you upload data so if you consistently upload your workouts, you could theoretically never have to take the time to charge it.

[brownmajik]

In the Navy i was never issued a watch, but in the NEX there were lots of choices, mostly gshocks. I was partial to the dw-6900 and still own one to this day.

[brownmajik]

As for gps watches, the garmin forerunner is agreat choice. I have a buddy that recently switched from his suunto to that and he digs it.

[Gumby2/6]

As for gps watches, the garmin forerunner is agreat choice. I have a buddy that recently switched from his suunto to that and he digs it.

I like mine so far. The only thing I am still working out is the GPS.

For some reason, the mileage seems to be slightly off, compared the routes I have previously tracked using Google Earth. Not a whole lot of variance, but I've noticed that the Garmin tracks a mile on one of my courses about 100 feet further that G-Earth. Also, I have run one of my routes several different times and they appeared to be slightly different each time.

[Dark Helmet]

I just sent my Sub in for a rebuild/tuning/crystal replacement....for $910.

[Hot Mess]

I just sent my Sub in for a rebuild/tuning/crystal replacement....for $910.

How long have you had it/ when was the last service? Are you getting the dial replaced as well?

Trying to get an idea for mine.

[Dark Helmet]

How long have you had it/ when was the last service? Are you getting the dial replaced as well?


Ten years, never serviced.

Price includes new dial face and crystal. I had the option to delete the face and crystal and just go with a service call and I would have saved ~$140.

Rolex says they should go into the shop every three years. Until recently, they used to send them to Zurich but they now have a facility in upstate New York.

[Hot Mess]

Thanks. I wouldn't say that is that bad of a price for all of that.

I believe someone here was saying that with the new lubes 10 yrs is about right for service.

Let us know how it turns out.

[Beach Jp]

Rolex says they should go into the shop every three years. Until recently, they used to send them to Zurich but they now have a facility in upstate New York.[/QUOTE]

[Beach Jp]

Dark Helmet:
I messed up my reply.

There are three Rolex service centers in the US. New York, Dallas, And Beverly Hills. All three will perform whatever work you need done. I have heard that Dallas does the best work.

I have also heard many different opinions on when to get a Rolex serviced. Most will say that if the watch is still keeping time within COSC specs, don't mess with it. For an average of $600 for a normal service I think I'll wait to get my Seadweller serviced. I've had it since 2004 and have had it adjusted twice, but no service.

KevinC

[ruditron]

I wanted that watch for a long time! I might still get it one day.

Very same watch I'm wearing now, Seiko SKX007 the old version that was still made in Japan, and not Malaysia. Its taken a beating and is only losing about 1 second a day! Not shabby for less then $150.

[SOTB]

Y'alls tastes are too expensive for me. I bought one of these Seiko self winding watches at the Ft Benning PX when I went to jump school back in '87. IIRC, it cost $72....About a thousand years ago, my mother gave me a Seiko dive watch like the one you mention, the only difference was that mine had a blue and red face, IIRC. It may have cost $100, I don't remember.

I liked the hell out of that watch. I've no idea where it is today. That eats my ass....

[gavin]

some CWO accidentally ordered like 30 watches and was giving them to some of our guys but he ran out. He said it was a "NASA Dive Watch"... can anyone come by an NSN for it? The unit price was somewhere in the $300's.

NSN: 6645-20-001-9382

You can buy it here (http://www.countycomm.com/tritiumsar.html) for $475. I am not affiliated with the business, but I have had very good experience buying pens and watches from them in the past.

[poison]

I saw this on WUS for $100 used, asked my wife for a Xmas present, offered $85, and viola!

http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee215/pappaube/IMG_1703-1.jpg

I've wanted a waterproof beater. My Swiss Army hand wind is only a Swiss Army, but I love it, and hate abusing it. Plus it's not the most waterproof thing. So this Momentum is 200m, sapphire, quartz, and has decent lume. It's way nicer than I thought it would be, I'm stoked.

[GDITheman]

Dark Helmet:
I messed up my reply.

There are three Rolex service centers in the US. New York, Dallas, And Beverly Hills. All three will perform whatever work you need done. I have heard that Dallas does the best work.

I have also heard many different opinions on when to get a Rolex serviced. Most will say that if the watch is still keeping time within COSC specs, don't mess with it. For an average of $600 for a normal service I think I'll wait to get my Seadweller serviced. I've had it since 2004 and have had it adjusted twice, but no service.

KevinC

I've had my Submariner since 1993 and wear it every day. I've never had it serviced. It's never kept great time, even when new. Most of the guys I know say that if the Rolex is still working, they don't bother sending it in for the regular service intervals. I am going to get a new Rolex this year. 19 years with the same watch and I'm ready to look at something different. I will send the Submariner back to have it serviced and get the chipped crystal, beat up bezel and extremely worn bracelet replaced. Then I'll tuck it away with a list of adventures it's been on and give it to my son when he's old enough.

[cdutchess78]

I love my Casio G-shock.I used to go through watches all the time till I came across that one.Solar powered version so never needs a battery.Been all over Iraq and Afghanistan's mountains without any problems.Doesn't look as high speed as some others,but definitely gets the job done.

[rubicon]

I am a huge fan of the G-Shock DW 6600. Truly a "bombproof" watch. Mine just gave up the ghost last week and I went online to purchase a new one. To my surprise I found it had been discontinued. Man I am bummed. They are now hard to find and the prices on the ones left are thru the roof. I think rebuild kits can be obtained though. Anyone got any news on this?

[poison]

No, rubicon, THIS is a bombproof watch.

I live and work in Alaska. I made this work watch based on the Omega Alaska Project. It is a quartz movement mounted in a oversize aluminum case with a stainless case back and Lexan front. This watch can not only take extreme cold, it can take a sledgehammer blow. It's crude but I needed a tough watch pronto.

http://forums.watchuseek.com/attachments/f74/574953d1323498227-dive-watch-extreme-cold-thats-why-img00341.jpg

http://forums.watchuseek.com/attachments/f74/574954d1323498260-dive-watch-extreme-cold-thats-why-mark1041.jpg



Holy ****.

[DuckMarshal]

Santa was very good to me this year. :biggrin:

[mdwest]

Santa was very good to me this year. :biggrin:

Very Nice!

Of all the "nice" watches I own and have owned.. my Tag Aquaracer 2000 has seen more daily wear/use than any of them (wearing mine right now)..

Youre gonna love that watch!

[JAFO]

Of all the "nice" watches I own and have owned.. my Tag Aquaracer 2000 has seen more daily wear/use than any of them (wearing mine right now)...

Yeah, but you probably bought it at the Silk Market. :biggrin:

[mdwest]

Yeah, but you probably bought it at the Silk Market. :biggrin:

funny you mention that place.. I actually thought about it when I made my earlier post..

I did buy a fo-panerai there as well as some fakie breitling back in 2006.. both looked EXCELLENT, you litterally couldnt tell them from the real deal..















for about 72 hours lol...

[USP45Tim]

Just bought this MKII Stingray a couple days ago and can't wait to receive it. I also ended up getting a stingray skin strap just like this for it. Basically it's a Blancpain Fifty Fathoms homage.

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g255/deputythrust/Stingray5of68x6.png

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g255/deputythrust/img47361024x768.jpg

[Hot Mess]

I am a huge fan of the G-Shock DW 6600. Truly a "bombproof" watch. Mine just gave up the ghost last week and I went online to purchase a new one. To my surprise I found it had been discontinued. Man I am bummed. They are now hard to find and the prices on the ones left are thru the roof. I think rebuild kits can be obtained though. Anyone got any news on this?

That sucks:frown: I have one that doesn't get much use at the moment, but it is my go to watch for mil stuff. Tough and easy to use with no extra crap. I first bought one when in pre Ranger at Benning in '01, she's served me well.

[The Sheepdog]

I am a huge fan of the G-Shock DW 6600. Truly a "bombproof" watch. Mine just gave up the ghost last week and I went online to purchase a new one. To my surprise I found it had been discontinued. Man I am bummed. They are now hard to find and the prices on the ones left are thru the roof. I think rebuild kits can be obtained though. Anyone got any news on this?

I just saw some DW6600's at Academy where I live for $78. I also saw one at the local Sears about a month ago for $70. They are getting harder to find. I have had mine for 15 years now and will keep it for 15 more if it holds out.

[MikeC2W]

One of my favorite watches was the timex dive watch I had in 92', went through Ranger School with it. The tritium dials were so damn bright they could be used better than cat eyes, lol. I had a piece of gutted 550 cord tied over the crystal to protect the face, miss that watch.

DH let me know how that goes, my Rolex is at the 10 yr mark as well.

[poison]

I saw this on WUS for $100 used, asked my wife for a Xmas present, offered $85, and viola!

http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t130/mikeyjsc/Deep6.jpg

I've wanted a waterproof beater. My Swiss Army hand wind is only a Swiss Army, but I love it, and hate abusing it. Plus it's not the most waterproof thing. So this Momentum is 200m, sapphire, quartz, and has decent lume. It's way nicer than I thought it would be, I'm stoked.

I've been wearing this a few days. It's freaking nice, for the money (~$150 online, I paid $85 used but flawless). A ton of watch for that money, I'm happy!

Just bought this MKII Stingray a couple days ago and can't wait to receive it. I also ended up getting a stingray skin strap just like this for it. Basically it's a Blancpain Fifty Fathoms homage.

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g255/deputythrust/Stingray5of68x6.png

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g255/deputythrust/img47361024x768.jpg

That's pretty sweet! They make quality stuff, too.

[Chemical Cookie]

I am a huge fan of the G-Shock DW 6600. Truly a "bombproof" watch. Mine just gave up the ghost last week and I went online to purchase a new one. To my surprise I found it had been discontinued. Man I am bummed. They are now hard to find and the prices on the ones left are thru the roof. I think rebuild kits can be obtained though. Anyo ne got any news on this?

Im in the same boat. Wife purchased my g-shock late '04 and I have been wearing it ever since Three batteries, a new watch band and several countries/missions later the damn plastic face is literally peeling off. I love this watch but think it is time for a new one. If rebuild kits are out there Id be interested but think I might upgrade when the funds become available.

Ill finish reading this thread but am leaning towards the something that is black, not too flashy and will wear it just about 24/7.

[The Sheepdog]

Im in the same boat. Wife purchased my g-shock late '04 and I have been wearing it ever since Three batteries, a new watch band and several countries/missions later the damn plastic face is literally peeling off. I love this watch but think it is time for a new one. If rebuild kits are out there Id be interested but think I might upgrade when the funds become available.

Ill finish reading this thread but am leaning towards the something that is black, not too flashy and will wear it just about 24/7.

CC, I just had a friend of mine order and receive two rebuild kits for his 6600s. He paid about $30 each, IIRC, for a new band and face plate. I have ordered a couple myself. Casio is divided into regions for their repair centers. Mine was out of Houston and only took me about a week to receive it.

[Chemical Cookie]

CC, I just had a friend of mine order and receive two rebuild kits for his 6600s. He paid about $30 each, IIRC, for a new band and face plate. I have ordered a couple myself. Casio is divided into regions for their repair centers. Mine was out of Houston and only took me about a week to receive it.

Ill look into this and see what they have around Atlanta. Thanks for the info!

[poison]

Anyone like the bronze?

http://olivierwatches.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/olivierbronze-81.jpg

www.olivierwatches.com

[nickd]

Got this one from the woman for christmas. Liking it a lot.

http://g-lvl3.nordstromimage.com/imagegallery/store/product/Large/9/_6623029.jpg


It's a lot darker than the picture shows. Very low profile and more of an accessory (as the brand suggests) than it is a practical timepiece, but that's what cellphones are for.

[jtk317]

Darth Vader's watch? :biggrin:

Joking aside it does look pretty good. Nice of your woman.

[nickd]

Haha definitely, she's secretly trying to "GQ" me up with each holiday.

I've never been a watch guy until recently when I needed something to time myself while training, but I must say this one has sparked my interest into nicer watches.

I usually go for the simple timex or something you can pickup at a local surfshop, but I may have a new hobby here.

[leopardprey]

Was at a tourneau in Naples yesterday.... New Submariners are looking good, the guy said older models are holding their value as everyone still wants one. The model I looked at was for 8K. Also looked at a nice collection of Panerai.... 0% financing for 18 months.... Had to walk out of there really fast!

What's funny is walking into places like this out door mall, extremely EXTREMELY upscale joint, dressed in a tshirt, swimming shorts, flip flops with tattoos exposed....most wouldn't give us the time of day (stupid sales people). The guy at tourneau was dead on though, first thing he spotted - wife's rolex....then he proceeded to dam near sell me a Panerai. Good times.

Yes, the new Submariner Dates re really nice with thue newer ceramic bezel, and improved bracelet with the micro adjusting glide glasp. Can't go wrong with one, as super tough movement for a mechanical watch, and although very expensivethey hold their value.

[Hot Mess]

Yes, the new Submariner Dates are really nice with their newer ceramic bezel, and improved bracelet with the micro adjusting glide clasp. Can't go wrong with one, as super tough movement for a mechanical watch, and although very expensive they hold their value.

:cool:yep

[poison]

Anyone like the bronze?

http://olivierwatches.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/olivierbronze-81.jpg

www.olivierwatches.com

No bronze lovers? I haven't been a fan of the recent spate of bronze watches, but this one caught my eye, and now I'm freaking fixated. It looks cool with the patina going:

http://forums.watchuseek.com/attachments/f74/599467d1326302493-introducing-olivier-watches-olivier-bronze-diver-olivierbeach-1.jpg

It'll turn pretty dark, and look low-key, or you can keep it blingy if you like. I though bronze would be soft, but it's military grade CuSn8 alloy, which is as durable as 316 steel, but far more resistant to corrosion. Google found me this:

http://wusmob.com/wus/oldest528076/Bronze_questions

Neat.

[leopardprey]

Like the look as well. Sharp. And the date feature is unique.

[poison]

There's a dateless model, and blue or brown face options, but I gotta have the date feature, and like the triple window. Different and cool! I emailed the owner of the company, cool guy. He started making bronze buckles, but felt the need to design his own watch. He's close to me, as well, and offered to let me come by and handle one of em. Realistically, I won't be able to get in on the presale price, but hopefully I can later (or find one used). It's just a great design!

[USP45Tim]

I like it. It's definitely unique, but classy.

No bronze lovers?

[Dark Helmet]

Let us know how it turns out.

Got it back in December. It's like a new watch. Seriously, looks brand new.

It keeps time exceptionally well now. It was off as much as +/- 8 minutes a day before going in.

It also will go for a couple days without needing winding. I have taken it off on a Friday only to find that Monday morning it was still ticking. Prior to service, I was down to maybe 24 hours of being able to be off my wrist.

It was expensive to have the work done, but a new Sub is 8-9K and a new Dweller is 9-10K....so this was totally worth it.

Very happy with it.

[Hot Mess]

Awesome! Wow 8 min a day:eek: Mine is only a year old, so it will be a while before it needs service, but it is nice to know she'll back to new.




And yes, I did just look at mine and think, what a good looking time piece:redface:

[MikeC2W]

Got it back in December. It's like a new watch. Seriously, looks brand new.

It keeps time exceptionally well now. It was off as much as +/- 8 minutes a day before going in.

It also will go for a couple days without needing winding. I have taken it off on a Friday only to find that Monday morning it was still ticking. Prior to service, I was down to maybe 24 hours of being able to be off my wrist.

It was expensive to have the work done, but a new Sub is 8-9K and a new Dweller is 9-10K....so this was totally worth it.

Very happy with it.

Do you have, or has anyone found a good watch winder box?

[Hot Mess]

Do you have, or has anyone found a good watch winder box?

Not yet. I bought one that looks nice. AC and C battery powered with different winding speeds. I put my watch in it, locked it in the safe, came back a week later and my watch was not wound and the batteries were dead:confused:


Yes....I turned it on.

[MikeC2W]

Not yet. I bought one that looks nice. AC and C battery powered with different winding speeds. I put my watch in it, locked it in the safe, came back a week later and my watch was not wound and the batteries were dead:confused:


Yes....I turned it on.

LOL

I have one, plug it in, turned it on, came back a week later and the watch was dead. Wtf? So what I would do is change the direction of rotation every morning after getting out of bed, but that (in my mind) is a bullshit step.....although it worked, ultimately I stopped using it.

[Standby]

I lik the Bertucci watches. Cheap, simple, VERY well made. nice features for the money.

http://www.bertucciwatches.com/home.html

[jtk317]

Is it bad that $219 is not considered a cheap watch for me?

My uncle just gave me an all stainless steel watch he has been wearing for the last 15 years or so. Can't remember the name on it, I'll post pictures later when I get home. I just can't seem to justify wearing it around all the time, I'd prefer a watch that stayed in place instead of sliding up and down my wrist. Those Bertucci's are nice, wish I could afford one.

[Fofo]

I have a Bertucci watch as well. The A-2T model. Haven't used it in a while, but no complaints so far. Well, nothing against the watch itself, but one thing I find a little annoying is how the nylon band soaks up sweat and water.

The other watch I own is a G-Shock, the GA100-1A1 model. Great price, durable, not too large and looks nice. To each their own, but IMO, paying over 150 before taxes is too much for a watch. Personally I have damaged and smashed more than one over the years in accidents and just don't think I should pay anymore than that. It may be necessity to have one most days, but I'm not a fan of all the tidbits I won't use, and don't require something accurate to 1/1000th of a second at 40, 000ft, etc.

[Fofo]

Nevermind.

[poison]

Not yet. I bought one that looks nice. AC and C battery powered with different winding speeds. I put my watch in it, locked it in the safe, came back a week later and my watch was not wound and the batteries were dead:confused:


Yes....I turned it on.

Lol!

[poison]

http://olivierwatches.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/olivierlugs-2.jpg

http://olivierwatches.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/olivierlugs-3.jpg

Dammit!

[universible]

Watches...a sickness! Luckily I never have enough money to buy much of anything. My wife bought me a Bill Yao (MKII) customized Seiko when I graduated from my first FLETC class...its taken a lot of abuse, still works and looks great. One word of caution, Yao is super slow and has terrible communication. Great work though.

I recently bought a used "custom" big pilot...always liked the WWII pilot watches.

Those Oliviers are interesting. What's the insert on the opposite side of the crown?

[leopardprey]

Picked up one of the new 42mm white dial Rolex Explorer IIs about a month ago. Best Rolex have had, in past have owned several but sold or traded. This one is definately a keeper. Very comfy on the wrist, been traveling around Asia and running, swimming daily with it over the last month.

Btw, for those that have an I Pad, Rolex has a free App, with online special edition Exploration magazine. Many good articlec of diving and explorations and Rolex history. Devoted to the Submariner and Explorer line up of watches Rolex offers.

[poison]

Watches...a sickness! Luckily I never have enough money to buy much of anything. My wife bought me a Bill Yao (MKII) customized Seiko when I graduated from my first FLETC class...its taken a lot of abuse, still works and looks great. One word of caution, Yao is super slow and has terrible communication. Great work though.

I recently bought a used "custom" big pilot...always liked the WWII pilot watches.

Those Oliviers are interesting. What's the insert on the opposite side of the crown?

I've seen some sweet yao work, looks awesome! The insert is a helium release valve.

[MikeC2W]

Picked up one of the new 42mm white dial Rolex Explorer IIs about a month ago. Best Rolex have had, in past have owned several but sold or traded. This one is definately a keeper. Very comfy on the wrist, been traveling around Asia and running, swimming daily with it over the last month.

Btw, for those that have an I Pad, Rolex has a free App, with online special edition Exploration magazine. Many good articlec of diving and explorations and Rolex history. Devoted to the Submariner and Explorer line up of watches Rolex offers.

Nice, I'll have to check out that app.

[brownmajik]

That bronze is giving me a hardon. Nice watches poison.

[poison]

Ha, I know, it's killing me. Presale prices are only until the end of the month, I think, then it goes up $200.

[sabasarge]

http://olivierwatches.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/olivierlugs-2.jpg

http://olivierwatches.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/olivierlugs-3.jpg

Dammit!

Sweet looking watch Poison.
I particularly like that they don't take themselves too seriously :biggrin:
From their website......

"We’ve all been there, the wedding on a yacht when seemingly out of no where, a lovely bridesmaid is suddenly overboard! Just as you’re diving over the railing to help, you freak out. “Is my watch even water resistant?! I think it might be, but only to 3atm!? I take this thing off when I wash my hands!” Definitely a downer, and try explaining all of this to the guests. What about when you’re on vacation in Japan and, just your luck, you get stopped in the middle of the mall. You have a once in a lifetime chance to appear on one of those extreme Japanese game shows! You have to come completely as is, and take part of a impromptu saturation dive reality show! You are thrilled until you realize that your watch doesn’t have a helium escape valve, and is liable to literally explode on your wrist! That’s the quickest way to ruin your vacation. Our goal was that the Olivier Bronze Diver be feature packed to the maximum to ensure that no matter who got one, they would never find themselves having to take it off because our watch couldn’t handle it"
http://olivierwatches.com/olivier-bronze-diver-500m/

[poison]

Haha, that's awesome.

[jportal50]

I also bought this watch during jump school ('85) for roughly the same amount. I replaced the band after Honduras (it broke). After active duty, I purchased a Tag, and put the Seiko in a box, where it has remained since then. It has moved with me where ever. Last night I was in the attic looking for something, and low and behold, look what I found. Gave it a shake or two to wind, still works, and still not a scratch on it, other than normal wear from the 80's. I was awesome showing my wife and young daughters this old school watch.

http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h389/jportal50/IMG_0125.jpg

http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h389/jportal50/IMG_0126.jpg



Y'alls tastes are too expensive for me. I bought one of these Seiko self winding watches at the Ft Benning PX when I went to jump school back in '87. IIRC, it cost $72.


I chipped the crystal in Phase 1, but other than that, I never had trouble from it. It gave up the ghost a couple months ago

[eltrane]

Those Seiko 6309-7049s are selling for $2-300 in beat up condition. Yours is in good/very good condition. Great watches.

[Prester John]

Ten years, never serviced.

Price includes new dial face and crystal. I had the option to delete the face and crystal and just go with a service call and I would have saved ~$140.

Rolex says they should go into the shop every three years. Until recently, they used to send them to Zurich but they now have a facility in upstate New York.

http://www.industrialwatchworks.com/

If you ever do this again, have a look at International Watch Works... the guys works out of his house, has a sterling reputation in the collector's community and is a joy to work with. His prices are REALLY reasonable.

I have a Sub that he has serviced, it had a bent stem and it was difficult to adjust the date. And I am debating having him re-do the DLC on my Milgauss, and do it sandblasted... I like the matte finish as opposed to the glossy black I have right now.

[jportal50]

Those Seiko 6309-7049s are selling for $2-300 in beat up condition. Yours is in good/very good condition. Great watches.

I saw that after reading your post. It most assuredly needs to be cleaned and maintained. After re-looking at the backside pic, I shudder that the funk there is from the mid 80's. :eek:

Thanks.

[jportal50]

I was awesome showing my wife and young daughters this old school watch.


I reread this. It sounds arrogant (non-humbled) as typed due to my mistake. Should read "IT was awesome............" sorry for the mistake, I am not authorized to edit my posts.

[poison]

Sweet looking watch Poison.
I particularly like that they don't take themselves too seriously

So let me back up. I met Roland today at Starbucks, just to see these bad boys first-hand, and get a feel for size. I was honestly concerned as to how they'd look on my wide, flat wrist, and I was curious about fit and finish.

First off, Roland is a great guy, and took way more time to meet with a single person like myself (who can't even buy it right now) than I ever expected. His passion for watches is highly evident; he clearly enjoys what he's doing, and I think it shows in the results. I have my own extremely small business, and it's interesting to see someone else in a similar (if somewhat more established) position. If you live locally, hit him up, and I'm sure he'll meet up.

On to the watch (es)! We got in line at Starbucks to orders drinks, and he immediately handed me one of them. First thing I noticed was heft; it has a very substantial feel to it. Weighty in a quality fashion, it feels like a solid piece of bronze. Second, the lume. In a not-so-dimly-lit Starbucks, standing under a light, the lume just popped. The already legible face became even more legible, kind of like day-time running lights on a car. I didn't get a sense for longevity of the lume, of course, but suffice it to say lume will NOT be a complaint with these. TORCH! Unfortunately, I didn't get a lume shot (but then I'm no photog, and it would've sucked).

We sat down, and the first order of the day was a comparison between my Momentum Deep 6 and Olivier.

http://i43.tinypic.com/35clmqh.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/2col79d.jpg

So, you can clearly see the lug-to-lug difference there. The interesting thing to me is that though the Momentum is significantly bigger all around, the Olivier looks very substantial, particularly with the black bezel. Here are side views:

http://i42.tinypic.com/x5178.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/25ouezp.jpg

On to wrist shots:



I think it's interesting how the Olivier wears visually more substantially than the Momentum. The black bezel, which I prefer, definitely creates an effect where it extends the width of the black face, and makes the watch look larger; conversely, the bronze bezel makes it look smaller overall. This could be useful for creating the visual effect you desire, and the fact that both are included is pretty sweet.

Bezel action is tight with zero play, nada, and though I don't see accidental bezel movement EVER being an issue, it's not difficult to rotate. Outstanding bezel action, IMO. I asked about durability of the bezel insert, and Roland said it's a solid metal insert which is proving to be very durable. He's wearing it 24/7, and it had no marks. The minute markers on the insert are recessed, so they will never scratch or wear off. Awesome. The bronze bezel minute markers will probably patina considerable more than the exposed surfaces of the bezel, and create more of a contrast with the rest of the bezel, more visual pop, as it ages.

Fit and finish. I'm no expert, I don't even own a loupe, but the machining is top-notch. I have NOTHING against a well-made Chinese case (and hate the anti-Chinese case BS that goes around, they can do as good a work as anyone), but I think that having a German-made case definitely adds cachet, and quality workmanship is evident all around. No rough or sharp edges, no 'grain' from milling, everything lines up precisely (to my naked eye). The crown has the diver from the caseback on it, oh yeah; and the helium release valve ties in and balances the crown on the other side (as well as the caseback, if you get lost in the tableau back there) really well.

The dial. I f*cking love it. Bold, clearly legible, and beautiful in a utilitarian way, the small details add style without overwhelming the simplicity. I love the blue second hand, I love the triple date window w/ blue marker, I love the font used. The cross-hairs on the face even add legibility to the dial, making orientation of the watch a snap, and leaving no doubt as to where 12 o'clock is (plus, I was a sniper in the military, BOOM, hidden innuendo EVERYWHERE! haha). As someone remarked above, it's legible from far away. This will apply equally at night. It looks great. Chicks dig it. What more to say? :D

The strap. Soft, supple, and extremely comfortable, I actually might prefer the standard supplied strap to the Isofrane Roland had on the other watch. It's very nice, well-chosen on his part. Most folks have straps laying around, and will switch out anyway, but I'd probably leave it.

I apologize for my shoddy pictures, and lack of awesome up-close dial pics, but my main goal was seeing (and showing) the watch on my bigger wrist, and I think that's clear enough. Good dial pics have been posted here already.


Now, I'm off to hock something so I can pick one of these beauties up.

[poison]

A few more:



http://i39.tinypic.com/2unwyuu.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/65mlv7.jpg

I think it wears REALLY nicely. Here are side by side wrist shots:

http://i39.tinypic.com/j16dsj.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/d7ls2.jpg

[Hoepoe]

A few

that's what I call "double time"!

Nice, very nice!

H

[leopardprey]

Great review! Thanks Poison.

[TC Strat]

I am so ordering one of these watches when I get some extra money. I like the bronze bezel, has sort of a old style deep diver helmet look to it. Very cool.

[poison]

Yeah, each bezel totally changes the look and feel of it. Pretty cool that you get both with the watch, and it simply pops on and off without too much fuss.

It sounds like the eta movement will sell out before it starts delivering in april/may.

Double time, indeed, lol, I felt like a stock trader or something

[poison]

Oh, wow. Roland just announced strap options:

http://olivierwatches.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/olivierstraps-28.jpg

http://olivierwatches.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/olivierstraps-27.jpg

http://olivierwatches.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/olivierstraps-14.jpg

http://olivierwatches.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/olivierstraps-23.jpg

[poison]

http://olivierwatches.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/olivierstraps-20.jpg

http://olivierwatches.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/olivierstraps-15.jpg

http://olivierwatches.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/olivierstraps-24.jpg

[TC Strat]

You're killin me Nate!

[poison]

Haha, freaking Roland, knocking it outta the ballpark! Pretty sweet strap choices.

[poison]

Olivier is nearly sold out, only a couple left, dammit. :(

[TC Strat]

Was this like a limited run or something?

[campjwIII]

In 1999 I bought a Tudor Submariner with a black band for $900. I figured it was legit because the dealer -- who had a stall at Central Market brought me to her home where she kept it. I had it repared at the Rolex place --Wireless Road, Bangkok

I was given a Swiss Army Watch -- Infantry Jubalee --one of 1885
Each day during the monsoon is a tough decision :biggrin:

[poison]

Was this like a limited run or something?

It was an initial run of 200, 100 each eta/miyota. Response was so good, they sold out already, so he is doing another run. It is a LE watch, probably 300-400 total, max (he will never go over 500 on any model).

I'm in line for one. :D

[tooslow]

Admittedly, I am a po' boy, by comparison, but I did find this in a drawer.
Forty years old and it still keeps time.
Variously known as a Seiko Chronograph Automatic, Yachtsman, and UFO (?).
'twas a complimentary watch, from Seiko, when I was working at a radio station.
At almost five ounces it could hardly be more uncomfortable to wear (compared to my Timex Ironman).

[poison]

So retro, that thing. Cool!

[ccorgr175]

I have a PAW series Casio Pathfinder. It's one of the models that syncs with the atomic clock out in Co. six times a day...

Over the last few weeks I've seen the signal completely drop, and during a recent trip out to TX, I never had it at all...

Any particular reason for this anyone can think of? My battery strength was spot on...

Weird...


2%

[poison]

http://olivierwatches.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSCF0031a.gif

These sold out, he made a second run, and they're over half gone. All pre-order, available only in May. Wow.

[WPSPSS]

I also have a Casio Pathfinder, PAW-1300g. No problems here in NY with the signal, stays full strength 24/7. Anyone with an extra one piece band looking to sell for this model?

[swamppirate]

Breitling Colt...

[brownmajik]

Ditto on the pathfinder. Rattlecanned pag-240 goes to work with me pretty regular:
http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h400/sdphill2/7aabe485.jpg
This one's been hydro'd as well (silicone oil filled).

[poison]

http://cdn.creationwatches.com/products/images/medium/SNZH55K1_MED.jpg

This Seiko popped up on slickdeals for $93 + free shipping



go here and use code SDSPORT5

http://www.ashford.com/ashford/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=SNZH55&_requestid=74481&source=406010001&AID=11041751&PID=1225267&SID=xBcs7onxEeGtjvLLArRDVQ76ae2&PubCID=1122587&LinkName=Slick+Deals+Coupon+SNZH55+for+%2493&PubName=Slickdeals+Inc&src=AACJ

[molonlabe110]

I had the Suunto XM9i and they are replacing it with the X10 (military version). I hated the XM9i profoundly. Anyone have any experience with the new one?

[MixedLoad]

http://i41.tinypic.com/d7ls2.jpg


Besides the chrono-pron, seriously....STARBUCKS? :eek:

Poison drinks coffee at the world's most evil corporation! :biggrin:

[SOTB]

Besides the chrono-pron, seriously....STARBUCKS?BWAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHA That is pretty funny.

One of my clients (European who travels here) wears a blue SUUNTO Vector. I'm sure one of the reasons we get along so well is that I wear a brown one....:tongue:

[Tripod]

I picked up a Rolex Deep Dea Dweller a few months ago. Just turned 50, never had a Rolex, so I picked one up and then went on food stamps.

Told the wife it was an "investment". She said I was a "selfish bastard". But hey, it's rated to 12,000ft! When will I ever be down at 12,000ft you ask? As soon as TFG lets me borrow his mini-sub.

:biggrin:

[Hot Mess]

Now that's watch porn:cool: I looked at those but I thought for my first Rolex I'd just go normal. Solid purchase Tripod.

[Tripod]

I actually found it when my wife went to turn in some of her old gold at a local jewelry store. It had only one owner, V serial number, and I scored it for $7500. They had a Submariner for 5K. It's big, heavy, and I'll never use it for anything it was designed to do. But I love it.

But......everytime I now mention buying a boat my wife rolls her eyes and looks at my wrist. Everything comes with a price :(

[Tripod]

Then, when my mistress Charlize Theron saw mine, I had to buy one for her.

:tongue:

[MixedLoad]

Then, when my mistress Charlize Theron saw mine, I had to buy one for her.

:tongue:

Someone tell her to stop eating before SOTB comments on her soon to be asymmetrical waistline! :biggrin:

[Tripod]

Someone tell her to stop eating before SOTB comments on her soon to be asymmetrical waistline! :biggrin:

Lol. She's South African. Im not going to tell her because I dont want to get a hatchet buried in my skull.

But my God.....she is fucking hot in that pic, regardless of the Rolex.

:tongue:

[brownmajik]

I dont care if shes martian. Id hit that harder than Joe Frasier. Then id steal the watch. Call it a "great lay present.". Ahhh I can dream.

[SOTB]

Chicks eating whenever they want and all casual like, what the fuck is this world coming to?

[yojinbukai]

So, after viewing this thread and what must've been hundreds like it, I decided to go ahead and get a new timepiece. The outgoing Citizen titanium plain Jane dive watch has more scratches than a Run DMC album. My secondary daily wear has been a Pro Trek since 2003, but it looks like I would if I fought GSP for a day or so.

After carefully wiping the drool from my keyboard and putting away (temporarily at least) the notion of an Omega or even an Ocean 7, I still needed a watch.

Had to be something I could wear everywhere I go and plan on going. Had to bee something I could get serviced locally, and it had to have a warranty. It had to use screw pins instead of just spring pins because, well, I'm still a grunt at heart and I tend to break shit without really meaning to.

I looked at numerous offerings including the faithful Citizen and Seiko lines. In the end, I decided on a Reactor Gamma, titanium case and bracelet, with a red face. Never thought I'd like a red face, but it has already grown on me.

First thing I noticed was the very flexible band. The links are small enough that the bracelet conforms to the shape of my wrist. Those of you with the wrists of mere mortals would probably find it comfortable as well. Safety catch is standard, but it has no diving expansion for wearing over a wetsuit. Not something I needed anyway with primary and b/u computers being the norm for diving.

Second thing I noticed was that the Never Dark illumination is pretty nice. The way it is described on various websites is accurate. 3 green tritium ampules mark the 3,6,&9 with 12 being marked by an ampule that is nearly red. Even after several hours in the dark I could plainly make out the hands and most of the numbers. The tritium was just plain bright.

In stainless, this watch was a pig. Titanium makes it actually comfortable to wear. I'm anxious to see if the red face is a better contrast underwater next week, since I've always worn a black face or a digital watch when diving.

I picked this up for $500, including tax and fitting was of course, no charge. It came with several spare links and a cool case.

http://www.diversdiscountflorida.com/ProductImages/Images/large/dga0r50y1.jpghttp://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/watches/REACTOR/NDwatches.jpg

[poison]

Besides the chrono-pron, seriously....STARBUCKS? :eek:

Poison drinks coffee at the world's most evil corporation! :biggrin:

Haha, it wasn't my choice. We're going to have a local watch meet up when they are finally here (sometime this month), so we can pick them up in person. It will be at the cafe of MY choosing, this time. :cool:

Oh, in that pic: I drank a hipster chai. :p

[Max Power]

Oh, wow. Roland just announced strap options:

Didn't see options when placing the pre-order to select/add-on different straps... Ideas?

Went with the blue dial, myself - did you get one yet? The way I sold it to the wife was like this, "All my life I wanted to watch a Space Shuttle launch, I never got that chance... This is a limited edition bronze watch... See the similarities?"

Somehow, that actually worked. :biggrin:

[brownmajik]

Chicks. Feed em a line. Lol. Killer watch bro. Mines nothing next to that badboy but i "built" it myself. Hydro mod (silicone filled case and module), custom dyed bezel and maratac adapters on a 22mm maratac nato. Have a 24mm incoming from bob at MWR (maratac of course) to better fill out the adapters but this badboy is my daily wear at NAB and NOLF.

CASIO GD-100
http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h400/sdphill2/3cc49f32.jpg

[hunteran]

This thread has pushed me over the edge. I'm gonna get my dad's Seiko diver refurbished (he got it back on Kwaj in the 70s and its pretty beat up) and possibly buy another one for myself. Those Oliver watches look awesome, just a bit out of my price range though.

[poison]

Didn't see options when placing the pre-order to select/add-on different straps... Ideas?

Went with the blue dial, myself - did you get one yet? The way I sold it to the wife was like this, "All my life I wanted to watch a Space Shuttle launch, I never got that chance... This is a limited edition bronze watch... See the similarities?"

Somehow, that actually worked. :biggrin:

LOL, nice play! :D You know she's going to hit you up for some crazy purse or something now.

The strap options will be up soon, Rolnd is having trouble with his store interface or something.

I also know a guy who is making straps with Rolands buckles:

http://oi46.tinypic.com/2445qae.jpg

http://oi50.tinypic.com/2qdrblt.jpg

First one is $85, second is $100, I think.

[99superduty]

Chicks. Feed em a line. Lol. Killer watch bro. Mines nothing next to that badboy but i "built" it myself. Hydro mod (silicone filled case and module), custom dyed bezel and maratac adapters on a 22mm maratac nato. Have a 24mm incoming from bob at MWR (maratac of course) to better fill out the adapters but this badboy is my daily wear at NAB and NOLF.

CASIO GD-100
http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h400/sdphill2/3cc49f32.jpg

Where did you find the Suunto compass? Mine developed a bubble in it and i need to replace it. Cant find those things anywhere....

[brownmajik]

Get ahold of Bob at Military Watch Resource. He's got em and has been my go to guy for years now. His site is called BroadArrowDOTnet. He carries Marathon, Maratac and other stuff too.