This is a short video on how the Seiko Landmaster looks like on my wrist. For a complete review on this watch visit: Seiko Landmaster Spring Drive SBDB005 – Shiny, Bright and Light as Snow
In this blog, I will highlight my watch collection. All the photos are mine. New posting will be uploaded every start of the month (1st) and middle of the month (15th)
Friday, July 18, 2014
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Short Video on the Seiko SARB017 Alpinist
This is a short video of the Seiko SARB017 Alpinist on my wrist. For the complete review visit: Seiko SARB017 Alpinist – A Very Refined Gentleman’s Sports Watch Classic
Friday, July 11, 2014
Short Video on the Orient Diving Sports Automatic M-Force Titanium DV01002B
This is a short video of the Orient M-Force Titanium on my wrist. For the complete review visit: Orient Diving Sports Automatic M-Force Titanium DV01002B - A capable watch on paper but lost a key DNA at the design stage, A Review
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Orient Diving Sports Automatic M-Force Titanium DV01002B - A capable watch on paper but lost a key DNA at the design stage, A Review
I have been following the Orient brand very closely for the last few years. Currently I have eight in my collection. The most prolific line under the Orient brand that I collect is the diver series.
Last year, on 26 March 2013, Orient released an updated version of it famous M-Force series. For the first time, titanium was used as the based material for the watch. Up to that point I have in my collection two previous versions of the M-Force, the WV0091E as well as the model before that, the WV0021. It was obviously natural that I target to acquire this latest M-Force as well.
After more then a year, I finally got the opportunity to source for one. As usual, I got one of my main internet trader http://citytime.my to get me one. I was able to get it for RM1,100 compared to the retail price of RM1,750.
As usual, the review will first start from the point of receiving the package from the postal service.
I must say the service by Pos Malaysia is impressive. It is common to be more impressed with the international couriers but the service offered by Pos Malaysia from tracking to delivery speed is comparable.
In my case, http://citytime.my is in Kuching, Sarawak. Within 24 hours, before noon the next day, Pos Malaysia was able to get the package on my desk.
That is efficient.
One thing I like about http://citytime.my is their packaging. Although not elegant, the use of old newspapers, pieces of cardboard paper and the prodigious amount of tape ensures the package is secured and nothing, and I mean nothing would shake the content during transportation.
Last year, on 26 March 2013, Orient released an updated version of it famous M-Force series. For the first time, titanium was used as the based material for the watch. Up to that point I have in my collection two previous versions of the M-Force, the WV0091E as well as the model before that, the WV0021. It was obviously natural that I target to acquire this latest M-Force as well.
After more then a year, I finally got the opportunity to source for one. As usual, I got one of my main internet trader http://citytime.my to get me one. I was able to get it for RM1,100 compared to the retail price of RM1,750.
As usual, the review will first start from the point of receiving the package from the postal service.
In my case, http://citytime.my is in Kuching, Sarawak. Within 24 hours, before noon the next day, Pos Malaysia was able to get the package on my desk.
That is efficient.
One thing I like about http://citytime.my is their packaging. Although not elegant, the use of old newspapers, pieces of cardboard paper and the prodigious amount of tape ensures the package is secured and nothing, and I mean nothing would shake the content during transportation.
Thursday, June 19, 2014
ORIENT Sports 200M Automatic CEM65006D MAKO - Looks cool and capable to take a lot of abuse, A Review
Since the mid-2000s, the Orient Mako has been the most popular Orient watch series. The Orient Mako is an absolute classic and can be attributed to being the watch that started it all for collectors and enthusiasts. However, due to the popularity of the model and the similarity of a different model by Orient, a lot of watch enthusiasts commonly mistaken one for the other. I will explain more about this later in the write-up.
I was able to obtain a new Orient Mako from my favorite local internet dealer, http://Citytime.my. For just RM460 (inclusive of courier charges), the watch started its journey to my table. Slightly over 24 hours later, the package was on my table.
What I appreciate from this particular internet dealer is the quality of packaging. May not look professional but it is complete and protects the package throughout its journey.
I was able to obtain a new Orient Mako from my favorite local internet dealer, http://Citytime.my. For just RM460 (inclusive of courier charges), the watch started its journey to my table. Slightly over 24 hours later, the package was on my table.
What I appreciate from this particular internet dealer is the quality of packaging. May not look professional but it is complete and protects the package throughout its journey.
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Orient Star Somes WZ0201EL - The sublime shape and understated dial makes it a good companion for particular all occasions, A Review
I like watch dials that are simple. This Orient Star Somes WZ0201EL fits my requirement perfectly. Orient, in collaboration with the famous saddle maker Somes (http://www.somes.co.jp/) has created an excellent combination between mechanical watch perfection and superb leather strap under the ORIENT STAR premier branding.
This model have been discontinued by Orient. Nevertheless, there are still some old stocks still available. I used eBay to search for it and I was finally able to get it from a internet shop from Japan. After paying US$598.90 or RM1997.16 on Wednesday, May 7, 2014, I received this EMS package after a few days.
This model have been discontinued by Orient. Nevertheless, there are still some old stocks still available. I used eBay to search for it and I was finally able to get it from a internet shop from Japan. After paying US$598.90 or RM1997.16 on Wednesday, May 7, 2014, I received this EMS package after a few days.
Monday, May 26, 2014
Citizen Signature Grand Touring Automatic NB0070-57E - A lot of speculation on a watch with good vibes: A Review
The Citizen Signature Grand Touring Automatic NB0070-57E, an automatic watch by Citizen under the Signature series was introduced to the market in mid 2013. The Signature Collection by Citizen is a series of high quality watches similar to the Componola Collection (Japanese Domestic Model) but sold to North American and elsewhere.
This new model uses the Miyota 9010 movement, which is made exclusive for the Signature lineup. Although that is not unexpected for Citizen to do so, what is unexpected is the design cues used for the watch itself. For a start, it comes with a stainless steel housing which has the diameter of 44 mm and the thickness of 15 mm. Despite the dial and its fixed bezel being round, the main watch case is pillow shaped. The front of the timepiece is protected with a thick sapphire crystal with double anti-reflective coating. Coupled with its large crown protector with a patented system, the watch looks like a copy of a Panerai.
How could the CITIZEN WATCH CO. JAPAN, the largest watch company in the world could have ended up producing a watch that has a lot of people accusing it of copying? I for one don't think the truth is that simple. With a huge amount of resources available to the group, it would be obvious that this issue would have been brought up prior to production. By virtue that it did go through production as designed, there must be compelling reasons to believe Citizen is confident the watch can stand on its own. As we go through a thorough review of the watch, I will try to unravel key points about the watch that are ornately unique to it alone.
I needed to source this watch from North America. Calling my agent in Japan was not successful as it is not sold in Japan. It was only through Amazon that I got to order one. Total investment was USD896.25 plus USD15.31 for handling. Approximately five days later the package was on my table.
The actual box is deep blue in colour and protected by two layers. The first is a simple sleeve devoid of any brand logo. The dimensions are 165 mm long x 125 mm wide x 125 mm tall.
The size and colour of the box represent a significant departure from other Citizen watches I've bought previously. As part of the Signature line, Citizen wants to position this as a premier line hence the effort to jazz up the overall presentation.
The colour blue represents both the sky and the sea, and is associated with open spaces, freedom, intuition, imagination, expansiveness, inspiration, and sensitivity. Blue also represents meaning of depth, trust, loyalty, sincerity, wisdom, confidence, and faith.
Considered a highly corporate color, blue is often associated with intelligence, stability, unity, and conservatism.
By choosing the dark blue tone, Citizen is subtly telling everyone that it is royalty i.e. can be seen as elegant, rich, sophisticated and superior.
This subliminal message is seldom mentioned but it works especially on people because the watch industry itself has created a class system accepted by the vast majority. Many will covert a Rolex more instead of a Grand Seiko despite the fact that both have similar standards of manufacturing, quality and history (although this is arguable, what is important to note is that brand ranking plays a major part of the 'wow' factor that consumers want to see). Citizen understands this factor and actively works to improve the brand ranking by putting effort into every little thing to ensure customers' appreciation on their products continue to grow.
This new model uses the Miyota 9010 movement, which is made exclusive for the Signature lineup. Although that is not unexpected for Citizen to do so, what is unexpected is the design cues used for the watch itself. For a start, it comes with a stainless steel housing which has the diameter of 44 mm and the thickness of 15 mm. Despite the dial and its fixed bezel being round, the main watch case is pillow shaped. The front of the timepiece is protected with a thick sapphire crystal with double anti-reflective coating. Coupled with its large crown protector with a patented system, the watch looks like a copy of a Panerai.
How could the CITIZEN WATCH CO. JAPAN, the largest watch company in the world could have ended up producing a watch that has a lot of people accusing it of copying? I for one don't think the truth is that simple. With a huge amount of resources available to the group, it would be obvious that this issue would have been brought up prior to production. By virtue that it did go through production as designed, there must be compelling reasons to believe Citizen is confident the watch can stand on its own. As we go through a thorough review of the watch, I will try to unravel key points about the watch that are ornately unique to it alone.
I needed to source this watch from North America. Calling my agent in Japan was not successful as it is not sold in Japan. It was only through Amazon that I got to order one. Total investment was USD896.25 plus USD15.31 for handling. Approximately five days later the package was on my table. The actual box is deep blue in colour and protected by two layers. The first is a simple sleeve devoid of any brand logo. The dimensions are 165 mm long x 125 mm wide x 125 mm tall.
The colour blue represents both the sky and the sea, and is associated with open spaces, freedom, intuition, imagination, expansiveness, inspiration, and sensitivity. Blue also represents meaning of depth, trust, loyalty, sincerity, wisdom, confidence, and faith.
Considered a highly corporate color, blue is often associated with intelligence, stability, unity, and conservatism.
By choosing the dark blue tone, Citizen is subtly telling everyone that it is royalty i.e. can be seen as elegant, rich, sophisticated and superior.
This subliminal message is seldom mentioned but it works especially on people because the watch industry itself has created a class system accepted by the vast majority. Many will covert a Rolex more instead of a Grand Seiko despite the fact that both have similar standards of manufacturing, quality and history (although this is arguable, what is important to note is that brand ranking plays a major part of the 'wow' factor that consumers want to see). Citizen understands this factor and actively works to improve the brand ranking by putting effort into every little thing to ensure customers' appreciation on their products continue to grow.
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Maranez Bangla Titanium Blue Dial No Date - A combo package that is a winner in my book; A Review
It all started when I was doing research on independent micro-brand watch companies around the world. I have experienced with some of them and all the offerings that I got the opportunity to get did not disappoint me one little bit. From the US, I am familiar with Deep Blue, Lum-Tec and Ocean7; from Singapore its Gruppo Gamma and from Luxembourg, Schroeder 1877. I then stumble on a micro-brand that hails from a country North of mine, Thailand.
This micro-brand is called Maranez Watches. Its website, http://www.maranez.com/ is very vague to its origins. Based on some reviews I found on the internet, it would appear that it is a company operating out of Phuket, Thailand based on the names of their watch collection that are main points of attraction in Phuket (Layan, Bangla & Rancha). However, this is still debatable as the address that was printed on the courier docket was from a Hong Kong office. Anyway, here is the contact detail of the company if anyone is interested: maranezwatches@gmail.com.
In 11 April 2014, there were only the Bangla and Rancha models available for sale. However, what got me interested was the fact that this company works with three different materials, stainless steel, brass and titanium. As it so happens my brother's birthday was coming up, I decided to order a Bangla in brass (for him) and a Bangla in titanium for myself. The price was just USD299 + USD50 via FedEx for the brass and USD349 + USD50 via FedEx for the titanium. More about the price later.
Monday, April 7, 2014
Seiko Prospex 300MM SBDX001 Marinemaster - In a league of its own, A Review
This is one of my grail watches. The Seiko Prospex 300MM SBDX001 Marinemaster as been touted as the most versatile dive watches that can rival the best the Swiss industry could muster. This watch is capable on land, sea and air in all situations such as casual or even formal functions.
This watch is the only Marinemaster watch that actually says "Marinemaster" on the watch. As this is a JDM (Japan Domestic Market) watch, you can only obtain it in Japan from official dealers. Nevertheless, if you cannot make it to Japan, you can still get one via online. For me, my source of JDM watches is www.higuchi-inc.com.
The Marinemaster uses a Seiko in-house 26 jewel calibre 8L35 self-winding movement that is the base movement for the higher end 9S55 calibre Grand Seiko. With manual wind and hacking second mechanisms, 28,800 vph, 50 hours power reserve, it is unadjusted, rhodium plated and has an accuracy rating by Seiko of +15 ~ -10 seconds per day. The 8L35 is one of Seiko's best automatic movements. Accuracy easily matches certified chronometer levels, and often exceeds them.
This watch is the only Marinemaster watch that actually says "Marinemaster" on the watch. As this is a JDM (Japan Domestic Market) watch, you can only obtain it in Japan from official dealers. Nevertheless, if you cannot make it to Japan, you can still get one via online. For me, my source of JDM watches is www.higuchi-inc.com.
The Marinemaster uses a Seiko in-house 26 jewel calibre 8L35 self-winding movement that is the base movement for the higher end 9S55 calibre Grand Seiko. With manual wind and hacking second mechanisms, 28,800 vph, 50 hours power reserve, it is unadjusted, rhodium plated and has an accuracy rating by Seiko of +15 ~ -10 seconds per day. The 8L35 is one of Seiko's best automatic movements. Accuracy easily matches certified chronometer levels, and often exceeds them.
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
CITIZEN Promaster Eco-Drive AQUALAND Titanium Divers Watch JV0055-51E - It sits well on the wrist and is a very capable little dive computer. With its unique shape, it is an excellent conversation starter, A Review
I have yet to have a dive computer as part of my watch collection. Although there are a number of brands offering such a product, I decided to get the Citizen JV0055-51E as it offers a number of firsts for me. Apart from fulfilling my requirement of having a dive computer wristwatch, it is also uses the Eco-Drive technology which is uniquely Citizen. The use of titanium as the base material for the watch was also a reason behind this choice. Coupled with the unique case design, I was sold to this model.
Sourcing this watch was a major undertaking. The current retail price in Malaysia as listed by www.bodying.my is RM6,170.00. This is a price that I would not be willing to get.
Sourcing this watch was a major undertaking. The current retail price in Malaysia as listed by www.bodying.my is RM6,170.00. This is a price that I would not be willing to get.
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