Thanks for the video Mario. For yourself and Eddy should he read these comments - I will no longer be following through with a planned purchase from him because his messages here show that he doesn't seem to care to speak to his customers like equal human beings. That's a deal breaker no matter his business or product.

@blueperson77

2 жыл бұрын

“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” ‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭3:9‬ ‭NIV‬ ROMANS 10:9-11 “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame” Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭19:10‬ ‭ God wants us to believe in His One and Only Son, Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior, who died for our sins :D When we truly believe in our hearts that Jesus is the Son of God, who died for our sins so we could have eternal life with God, we are saved from the eternal fire and have eternal life in Christ Jesus!! 💖 May God bless you all ~ ❤️

Thank you for this video. I also had a bad experience with Timefactors and I just want to confirm everything what you said in your review.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for your words. It is important to make people aware of what they are getting in.

@tentimetex

3 жыл бұрын

Eddy is also over 60, he cant be dealing with too much stuff.

@mikej5959

2 жыл бұрын

Ive never OEMed or ran a retail business but he is right that a great quanity of returns are usually not actually faulty. That being said he said 40% werent actually faulty meaning 60% are. When I worked retail at a major appliance and tool store id say 70% werent faulty it was either buyers remorse, a "free rental", or Improper use. I cant believe he said that. I get having a strict policy especially for a small business but that doenst excuse behavior and absolutely no customer service. This is supposed to be a tool watch and hes relegating it to special occasion because you cant trust it.

Damn... I recently stumbled onto smiths. It was going to be my next purchase. Now, I'm not so sure...

So glad I saw this. I had a very similar experience after buying a Precista dive watch from Time Factors. The bezel was marked and horribly misaligned. Eddie Platts refused to accept my complaint, effectively calling me a liar. He offered no acceptable solution. He was just really rude.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for commenting. It comes within reason that some watches might have flaws or issues. It's a matter of probability, specially at some price ranges. To be rude is totally unacceptable. Customer service is about taking care of complains and listening to the client. If the first answers are rude, there's not many possibilities to fix things later on.

@gnarl12

2 жыл бұрын

Eddie literally doxxes people because they complain on the Timezone UK forum about his poor CS. He's the bitter one.

@gnarl12

2 жыл бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame 1000% agree

I tried buying a Smiths but the buying window was much shorter than the advertised 30 minutes. This brought up concerns on customer service, thank you for your complete review. I might go with the new Seiko Alpinist watch.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

The Alpinist is in my list for the future. I really like it and am very tempted everytime I see one!

Same old story. Eddy is rude and offers NO customer service. I have a sort of similar story. Not gonna write down all the details, but I agree with you. First contact he says there is no problem with the watch(wich seems to be his standard answer) and if you prove him it's wrong, he is becoming VERY rude and unfriendly. I will NEVER buy from timefactors again!!

@CraigG21

3 жыл бұрын

He did the same thing to a friend of mine. There is no problem first. Then try bending the latch with a pliers. When that didn’t work, he couldn’t take the watch back because my friend sized the bracelet or he doesn’t sell the bracelet or clasp by itself. All the while his correspondence was rude and condescending. Now, he has revealed my friends name and personal info on a forums that he moderates. How can this lunatic be stopped?

Great video. I contacted the guy Eddie asking questions about one of his pieces and his reply was condescending, brief and fairly rude. Based on this I decided not to buy something from such a person. I was a member of the TZ UK forum at the time and received nothing but abuse from his little hangers on when I posted my experience. IMHO a nasty little set up with his little buddies with their tongues up his hole.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

Some people with insecurities to compensate, need to surround themselves with fanatics to feel approval. This is a self defense mechanism some use to hide from the reality of a personality with conflicting behavior. Thanks for commenting!

Life is complicated enough as is. Thanks for the heads-up, and enduring the complications for all of us.

I am a full time EBay seller and treat people who buy $30 dollar preowned shoes better than this. I wanted and tried to get one of The vtg style Riveted bracelets and got no response

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

Exactly. First it's just a matter of respect and human decency. If someone contacts you asking for something, you need to answer in a polite manner, even to say it is not possible or whatever. There are no excuses not to behave like a decent human being unless, of course, you are not one.

Yeah you just steered me away from buying this watch lol. Thanks for the heads up, I really REALLY hate bad customer service

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

And this is very important. Because to feel some backup from the company is key for a good experience. There's a lot of great brands out there with awesome support like Traska or Lorier that I have experienced.

@s1ggy

3 жыл бұрын

I feel the same. They can have the best product and even if I've wanted it for months, I instantly forget about it with no regrets if the customer service is bad. There are too many products out there better deserving of your money and attention.

I am so sorry to hear that you had such a bad experience. I continue to hear many horror stories of Timefactors' customer service (or lack thereof). I hope everything worked out well for you in the end.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks. Yes, I continuously receive more stories about Timefactors and some are even worst than my experience. Somebody like that should not be in the watch community. That kind of behavior is of bullies alone. At the end the watches found great new owners and I got the funds to get the Traska and a Lorier. Both watches great with great people behind them. Also I finally got to buy my grail, the Explorer, so quite happy to be honest.

@HorologyinSanity

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame That all sounds like great news! So glad that worked out as well as it did in the end.

Well it seems I am in good company. Similar story about Eddie and Timefactors recently. I liked the look of the watches so reached out via email and asked a simple question about them and got back short snarky answer from him. Likely he is very defensive since so many it seems are now aware of his customer service and attitude. I put his email address on "ignore" and will happily find another similar style watch some where else. Great anti-business model and customer repellent service.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, you can find much better options out there with normal people well educated to interact with customers. Better to avoid those that are the opposite.

Thanks for posting this... I like the Timefactors designs I have seen, including this one, but was turned off by the buying process. I don't want to have to pile into the website along with thousands of others at the same time trying to buy in a tiny time window like a Black Friday mob. Surely he could do some kind of no cost wait list like Lorier does. Reading about your (and others') customer service experience confirmed my choice to not bother.

just got a notification regarding their store opening scheduled for july 17. hoping to get the prs in both dial colors. so thankful i found this first! hope you won't mind, but i'll be posting a link to this video to a few facebook groups as a warning. by the way, i've read the whole email exchange and must say that i really admire how you handled this dispute. can't say the same for myself.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Hi, thanks a lot for the comment and yes, of course, you can share the video. I used to recommend this "brand" for their watches so I feel kind of responsible and thus had to make this warning. A lot of people will not have any issue, of course, should all go well, but in case of any minor problem, the erratic nature of the owner might end up in a very difficult situation. Thanks for reading the emails. I wanted to be completely transparent so people can make up their mind as I have an evident bias.

Thank you for this video. I had 2 watches lined up to buy before the upcoming narrow window store opening. Now I'm not interested. You can best judge a company / service not by how they treat you when everything is going well, but when things go wrong.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

Exactly. That's the right way to judge a dealer and brand, in this case of the same person.

@blueperson77

2 жыл бұрын

“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” ‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭3:9‬ ‭NIV‬ ROMANS 10:9-11 “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame” Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭19:10‬ ‭ God wants us to believe in His One and Only Son, Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior, who died for our sins :D When we truly believe in our hearts that Jesus is the Son of God, who died for our sins so we could have eternal life with God, we are saved from the eternal fire and have eternal life in Christ Jesus!! 💖 May God bless you all~ 😊🤗

Watched this today - I have been looking to buy a Smith watch but have never been able to be able to logged on during the 'open' window. Your video tells me why. Thanks.

I have had a contact too recently and the feeling I got right away is just..insecurity and lack of any quality service support. If the gentleman doesn’t want to be bothered by customers why should he produce and sell watches? Creating a hype? No way! Being rude, offensive and demeaning towards people showing preference to his products and willing to spend their money purchasing them, is totally unacceptable! You can feel at once trying to get hold in this company. Short, vague, hard to comprehend sentences as though someone is slamming a door at your face. Is purchasing a watch and honouring a product that offensive to this gentleman? No is the answer. But his demeanour certainly is one. Mr Mario, I really admire your patience and your good manners in this interaction. Every person with a medium level of self respect has reached to a conclusion about what he is about to face if he tries a purchase. I d pick a safari in wild Africa instead. More chances to survive the experience

@TheWatchFrame

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for your comment. That is the point. If he is unable to deal with critics or simple comments about preferences or even only people asking for some advice or help, he should simply not work in the Internet. Anybody can have a bad day, but this is not the case of an exceptional circumstance but a common trend of this brand. Yes, better to stay away and get something else.

Thanks! You've saved me time and money. I'll look elsewhere. I'm not a fan of this type of limited window buying experience. I get that it's supposed to trigger a collector's FOMO (fear of missing out) impulse, making them purchase the item when they otherwise might not. Ming, Chrono Tokyo, and countless artists are moving to this exclusivity, blink and you miss it type of purchasing model. However, I'm not a sheep blindly following the hype and herd. If an item isn't available regularly than I'm not jumping through hoops to get it.

@mikej5959

2 жыл бұрын

With micro brands some really arent doing it on purpose. Not saying Time factors is one of those but it is a one man shop so I could see it only being open limited being a real need for that company.

Thanks for posting this Mario. Was planning on getting the Speedbird PRS1 dial, but based on your experience I'm not going to risk it. I'd rather pay extra money through an AD on a known brand to receive decent service. That said, I've bought from Marc at Long Island previously and his customer service was excellent so may check out the new Islander field watches. Take care and keep posting.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Yes, totally go for reputable companies with, at least, some kind of customer support. About Marc at Long Island Watches, yes, totally agree. A genuine great guy and a real gentleman. I did interact with him once and he was simply great. He's also making some everyday more interesting watches.

Thank you for sharing. I had my eye on a Smiths but I'll never give my money to anyone who treats people like this... what a POS!

Same experience here. Pretty sure I have sufficient evidence to sue for specific performance of the sales contract since I also experienced his "I sent an email cancelling the contract" garbage excuse. Terrible business practices. It looks like there are enough comments on this forum to organize a class action lawsuit. Is the juice possibly worth the squeeze?

Totally unacceptable! Love both watches you have shown in the video but whenever considering a watch, you're also buying the company, the seller, and customer service. Thanks for sharing Mario.

I just found out about smith watch and was excited to get one, now my mood just gone hahaha thank you 🙏🏽

Been looking at smiths for a while and now I'm just going to steer clear. This is not the first complaint I've heard and CS is very important should there be something wrong. I'd have more confidence in an Ali express watch over this chap.

Really sorry to hear of your bad experience. (Just watched the video on WatchCrunch). Tbh I was kind of surprised. I got a Smiths commando late last year in the all too brief ordering window, and it was taking a long time to be delivered. I contacted Eddie and he was quite helpful. Sure, his answers were brief and to the point, very matter of fact, but I was asking about a delivery and didnt want his life story anyway, and couldnt care less about pleasantries - maybe its a Northern England trait? I live in the North West and my colleges are always saying I am brief (almost) to the point of being rude - I dont notice it myself! I can only go from my own experiences, and I didnt have any issue with the watch itself, but he was ok with me and I would order again. Thanks for sharing your experiences.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Of course, not all experiences should be like mine and yes, some people are too brief, but in my case it wasn't what happened. I appreciate briefness to be honest, but in the case I mention he showed a bully behavior and total lack of respect thus I warn people so they are aware of what could happen should anything go wrong with the watch. I everything is fine I see no problem happening, but there are quite some similar examples of this behavior. In this day and age people without skills to interact with other human beings should simply someone to do that job. That is business 101. This said, I hope you enjoy the watch. The Rolex Commando was kind of a discovery for me and let me understand the Caravelle Sea Hunter a lot more.

@HarrisLoops

Жыл бұрын

I thought the same thing, my email replies from Eddie have been succinct but not rude, I appreciated this as we all have busy lives.

@osamu_90

5 ай бұрын

"You seem like a bitter man who can't change a bracelet" wasn't being brief, it was just plain rude.

Great review! That's just terrible customer support. No Timefactor for me then.

I had the same experience Mario, I placed an order for a PRS-29 only to not receive the watch after a month. I email Eddie and he said that it was my banks fault as the charge on the card had lapsed and he was no longer able to take the money. I then asked if he could just send me the watch again but he said I'd need to wait till the store was open. The only issue with this was that there was very limited stock and I knew I'd miss out. Anyway I took to the forum to explain my issue (which some other forum members agreed with me) to only get banned. I know of others who have dealt with him and been fine but the whole experience has soured my interest in the brand. Another thing to note is that if you return an item, he charges you a 2.5% restocking fee which I think is ridiculous and something I've never come across before.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

In my case with the first try to get the Expedition he said, after a month without any communication, that it had been kind of his fault as he didn't realize about the retention limit in banks. Funny cause that I know about and was kind of logical. Nevertheless it's not the first time I hear about forum banning for any kind of criticism. That's why I never talked about this in the forum. This is also not a very gentle behaviour on his side.

I tried to buy one of his watches and got an email implying that my purchase had been successful. No money was taken and no watch arrived. I emailed Eddie and he told me he had sent me an email saying the order had been cancelled because the watch was over-subscribed, but I never received that email. He certainly has a very strange way of doing business.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, those mysterious mails he says he sends but do not arrive seem to follow a pattern...

I’m glad to see someone else struggling to put the bracelet back on the watch. It was very difficult and ended up scratching the watch.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

Seems the bracelets from Timefactors really have some big quality issues. I have dealt with a lot of bracelets and very tight ones, but this was different, yes.

I'm glad that I saw this video. I was going to order a Smith Commander tomorrow...the shop opens at 2 pm GMT. I've now decided against it and will try to find an alternative. Btw my first watch was a kids size Smiths wristwatch which mum and dad bought me in or around 1966 . I still have it. This was part of my nostalgic reason for wanting another Smiths watch. Perhaps I'll buy an old one and have it serviced. Thanks for the video. Ive subscribed. 👍🏻👍🏻

@TheWatchFrame

11 ай бұрын

Thanks! Classic Smiths are simply great and hope to get one in the future too. The ones Timefactors sell have nothing to do with the original brand, except they bought the name to cash in. Which is not bad, but it is important to know this fact. About true alternatives I'd consider tomorrow's sale of the new Traska Summiteer 36mm. I'm very happy with the two new ones I got (and I have one of the limited edition of 25).

I was planning on getting a Smith, but after hearing about the spotty customer service and bad attitude of the owner, I'm glad I went with a Tisell at half the price.

@TheWatchFrame

6 ай бұрын

Thanks for commenting. Yes, I feel Tisell and other similar brands do have a clearer and somehow more honest approach to this type of watches and I have only heard good things about their quality and finishing.

I also have had a bad experience with Eddie. I asked twice when my watch will arrive because I’m looking forward to getting it, he then cancelled my order because he felt I was “hassling” him, a very rude a disrespectful man.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Mark, thanks a lot for sharing your experience. This is the kind of too frequent behavior of the owner of the brand. Totally unacceptable. I wish more reviewers would take a look into these serious issues and would stop recommending the brand as a whole until these practices end. I'm noticing a total lack of responsibility as many ignore our stories and promote that company as accomplices of pure bully techniques.

Thanks for the public service announcement, was gonna pick one up for a bit of fun, but glad I did some research, much appreciated 🍻

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

You are most welcome!

Thanks for this Video, Mario! I’m actually waiting for the next batch of PRS 47. But now I’m not sure to buy from Timefactors! And because the UK is no longer a member of the EU makes it even more complicated to get your customer rights.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

I assure you the customer protection services of the EU commission will not work with this purchases anymore. If you get the watch and everything is alright you should have no issues. Some companies take care of the exporting taxes but guess here would not be the case. This one is an interesting watch but I somehow, in first reaction, not really convinced of the different fonts in the dial. The word "Commando" should use the same font used in the logo instead of keeping the font of the Rolex Commando.

Thanks for the info!!! Does anyone know if there have been changes for the better since then... Just thinking to by watches from them.

The owner is one of the main reasons I don’t want to part with my money. Don’t know how he ended up with the smiths rights, I had a similar rude interaction with Eddie. The guy seems like he is doing you a favour in selling his watch to you. It’s one thing for Rolex to do it but another for a small watch outfit to do. Sort your manners out! Cost nothing

Thanks for this review, you’ve saved me taking a gamble on a PRS25 Everest this weekend in fact. In reality I suppose you have to accept that they are a lot of watch for the money but, like you it seems, I’m going to wait my time and go for the Sinn 566I which may be three times the price but would hopefully be a watch I could be proud of. Sorry to hear about your experience though. Not a good look for my country.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for your comment. Actually this experience has helped me a lot to change my perspective regards watches, direct design copies and true homages. Knowing what I do now I'd say yes, the Sinn 556 would be the best kind of more affordable option you can really be proud of owning. Hope to have one in the future to really check if this is true. But yes, might be more expensive, but really seems to be worth to wait a bit longer.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, i wanted to buy a smiths for a long time, they're always sold out but hearing this now I'm questioning my decisionto keep waiting

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

I think that the best thing to do is for search for something else. There are a lot of other options from way better sellers.

@Fedbo

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame do you have any recommendations for other 36mm watches along those lines?

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

@@Fedbo I have not much experience but I'd check the Traska Commuter black dial in 36,5mm. If you don't mind vintage, the Caravelle Sea Hunter is a pure beauty, but hard to find and a bit expensive. Lorier has also a 36mm watch with very original design: The Lorier Falcon II. I recommend those because they make great watches I have ha first hand experience and have outstanding customer support. Hope this helps somehow. Also Stowa has some very nice 36mm watches worth checking out. I have one in the pipeline to get for my wife, the Marine classic.

@Fedbo

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame thank you so much! The lorier looks stunning

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

@@Fedbo I have the Neptune now on my wrist and is pure beauty.

I was going to order an Everest Expedition. But now, I don't think I would order one anymore. Thanks for saving me from all the troubles, Mario.

@TheWatchFrame

3 ай бұрын

No problem. I had to tell this story. I don't know if things have changed after that, but what I know is that there are other very good watches. I got the Sandstone Summiteer which is arguably way better, for me, than the Expedition. And more original too.

@jameswong6590

3 ай бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame I must look it up.

@jameswong6590

3 ай бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame is the Submiteer by Traska?

@TheWatchFrame

3 ай бұрын

@@jameswong6590 that is correct. I have the black and the sandstone. Great watches.

Thank you, I may not buy from them. Or I may I don’t know yet, but this is good to make a video on

Thank you so much for making this video,.. I was just in the process of Purchasing one this year April 17th 2022, Coming across as unprofessional and Being rude to your customer is completely a deal breaker for me no thanks.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Yes, that kind of behavior is unacceptable. There are a whole lot of other options out there.

I always look for reviews before buying anything from anyone or anywhere. I just don’t want to deal with BS.

Thank you for this video! You've helped me avoid a potential pitfall and being more than 8000 miles away, I'll have no chance for a recourse should there be problems.

@TheWatchFrame

27 күн бұрын

I'm sure you can find other options, and even closer to you.

Haha I was looking at Smiths prs-40 but now I don't think I'll buy one now. Thanks for the tip!

I have been considering selling my prs-25 due to reasons like this. It's unacceptable and I would much rather buy from good companies such as Lorier. My Everest doesn't feel special as the perception I have of the brand is pretty awful.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for commenting. I've finally sold both of them. Now saving for the Sinn 556 A. Lorier also look great and have beautiful looking watches. I'm sure you would be able to sell the Smiths and get a nice Lorier.

@Leventgursoy11

3 жыл бұрын

If you would like to sell, pleaseleave a message levent.gursoy@ymail.com

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

@@Leventgursoy11 Already sold both of them. Just received the Lorier Neptune 3.

Wow ! I was in love with this specific model few days ago when I discovered their website but now... Between your video, the forum you linked in the description and the comments section below, seeing the disrespectful and insensitive responses of this person, I don't want it anymore. What a shame having such a bad customer service !

@TheWatchFrame

7 ай бұрын

Thanks for your comment. I don't know it now things have improved as the watches were alright, but that experience was way too much to stand.

You are so in the right Mario...that was an awful way to treat a good customer that not only bought one, but two of his watches. If it were my watch brand, I would have sent you a new end link free of charge, no questions asked. Good customer relations is a good investment on the part of the seller, showing the sellers goodwill which is a win win for both.

They are not ! Smiths watches. They are an insult to the history of Smiths watches and nowhere near the quality or longevity . Miyota movements for christ sake! The watchmakers of Cheltenham will be turning in the graves. They are Homage!!

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

True, the owner of TImefactors bought the rights to the name, that is all.

I was going to buy a Smiths watch, not sure about that any longer.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

The watches are good. The bracelet not that much. The problem is Timefactors being one single not very professional person company. If you have any issue or need any advice, you might end up getting very upsetting un professional answers.

Thank you for the video. I've contemplated buying this or the black PRS-25. Good to know what type of gentleman I'd be dealing with. Reading your account and the other has turned me off buying from him. The watch isn't that beautiful that I'd risk that headache. Side note: I bought an oyster bracelet from Strapcode a couple years ago and one endlink didn't fit properly. Within two emails they had a replacement in the post to me within a day at no extra charge and it was fine. That's customer service.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

Exactly. That's the way of solving things first, and not tryting humiliate the customer.

I have a couple of Smiths watches - a PRS-40 Nato and the new Caribbean. Both were a nightmare to get hold of via the ordering 'system' - and on a Facebook group for microbrand watches I said something as simple as 'I don't understand why they wouldn't just operate a waiting list system'. Eddie turned up in the comments and chewed me out of over it. I asked him if he could see from the number of negative comments about the buying experience that he might need to change it. He said 'my watches sell out so there's no problem here'. It took me over 8 months to get the PRS-40 and 2 attempts at landing the Caribbean. If the Caribbean wasn't such a looker I'd never have bought from him again.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

See, that's exactly the kind of behavior that shows the type of person the seller is. Seems unable to accept criticism or to understand that what seems to be working at a given time might not really last for long or the medium term. There are so many awesome micro brands and even well established ones with way way better customer care and beautiful pieces too...

@James2001

Күн бұрын

And yet you still bought 2 watches from him. You are proving his point.

I was thinking of saving up for this watch, but I think I will try to support a brand like Lorier which is well respected and I have heard noting but positive reviews. I really think that it is important to support positive brands that have good customer service. Thanks for your review! Great looking watch though

@TheWatchFrame

Жыл бұрын

Lorier is a great company and I can attest that. I've exchanged many emails with Lorenzo and he is a very nice people and great to talk to. The watches are superb. I've now the Neptune IV and hope to make a review soon.

@macrowatchman

Жыл бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame Thanks for the reply! I can't wait to see that review :)

@eugenethomas4647

Жыл бұрын

I have experience with Lorier with regards to a QC issue and their customer service is top notch!

Oh man. I just bought a watch last week. I didn't read any of the horror stories prior and now I'm panicking. I bought on the 3rd of sept this month . Today is the 10th. I didn't receive any tracking details so I emailed and asked about it a couple of days later. He replied 'That’s because it hasn’t yet been shipped. There are still another 70 orders ahead of yours and I don’t expect to ship it until Friday'. Today is Sunday and I still don't know where the watch may be. I received no tracking number. To be frankly honest, I'm a little intimidated to ask. I really hope the watch has no issues because I don't want to have any further correspondence with him.

@TheWatchFrame

10 ай бұрын

Be patient because of the health issues of the owner they might experience some delays. If they charged you the payment they most surely will send you the watch. Just wait for a few more days before contacting again. Let's say until next Friday. Hope it arrives safe and well.

@jinxUKBK

10 ай бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame thank you brother. Let's see what happens

@TheWatchFrame

10 ай бұрын

Yes @@jinxUKBK, keep us posted!

@jinxUKBK

10 ай бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame the watch arrived my brother. All in good condition. I was so joyed. It's is an amazing watch. If seller changes a few things in his approach to his customers, he will really have a good thing going. Just hope everyone gets treated with respect and honour.

@TheWatchFrame

10 ай бұрын

Great @@jinxUKBK! Really hope you enjoy the watch. Agree, wish they company would take customer support the way they should.

What is the brand of the leather strap (in the beginning) and the tropic one you put on the PRS-25? I am bout to receive the Everest 36mm after my city exits the lockdown state and plan to buy some leather straps for it. Regarding the not-so-friendly attitude of the owner, I do agree. I did mail him to ask for some specs of the Everest so I can provide them to my leather atelier. I want the strap to flush with the lugs well, and he just told me to lend the watch to the atelier so they can do the job by themselves ... But my country is being in the lockdown for 3-4 months and shipping a watch across the cities would be quite difficult. Guess I have to wait when I receive the watch and then, do the measurements myself.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Hi, the one with the stitching all around is a Wocci band you can find in Amazon. It's a brand from China, and with rather good quality to be honest. The other that is showing, the vintage tapered one is from Cheapestnatostraps. I oiled it myself. The exact model is not available but I saw one with the same shape already oiled, so that one would do the trick.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

About the Tropic: Is from Aliexpress: www.aliexpress.com/item/4001257509709.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.3ada4c4dNdb8h0.

In case Eddie is still checking out recent comments to this video, just know that it cost you yet another potential customer. I will never spend money with a company that treats customers in such a disrespectful manner.

@TheWatchFrame

Күн бұрын

Now it seems his son is in charge of the store, as it seems Eddie is having some health issues. I really hope the customer support has improved, but I have no clue about it. And while I will not buy from this shop again, I also hope Eddie gets better.

I think that is definitely unfortunate, I can tell you from experience Sinn have excellent customer service and one of the most helpful customer support you could get. Good luck with your next purchase.

@educarmar

3 жыл бұрын

the watch is no more than a chinese generic case and bracelet with a carefully selected dial and hands

@denniskwok7613

3 жыл бұрын

@@educarmar. That's an incredibly ignorant statement. If you'd actually seen and owned the watch, you'd know that the case and bracelet are both bespoke. Also, Eddie charges a very reasonable price for the watch. He could easily charge an extra 20% and still sell out.

@educarmar

3 жыл бұрын

@@denniskwok7613 Another fanboy more or a fake profile - please give me list of differences with the rest of the chinese watches - I am still listening. These are purely chinese produced watches - as good or as bad as they could be. The only thing that "Mr. Smiths" has done is select a set of components from the generic ones offered at the chinese factory catalog and place and order to the the chinese manufacturer producing "his watches"- All the parts on "his watches" could not be more generic than they are. Calling somebody to this a "watch designer" is as ridiculous as if you were calling "indoors decorator" to somebody who selects a colour from painting a wall. If you wish you could also become "a watch designer"... aliexpress enable you to custom print your own brand into generic chinese watches offered there.

@adamb3129

3 жыл бұрын

@@denniskwok7613 no these are very Generic. Made in China parts, and it a Rolex Explorer homage. Anyone can make one

Great review was considering a Caribbean but after researching this company will go elsewhere many thanks for your honest review

@TheWatchFrame

Жыл бұрын

Thanks! I honestly think it's best to stay away from this company with dubious practices as that can ruin a great hobby like this.

I found the brand today, fell in love with one model and couldn't wait to have a chance to get one (though I'm fairly certain that would never happen under this selling mode. I've never had any luck buying stuff like this). Anyway, I think I'm gonna give it a pass since I was expecting a premium customer service under these conditions. So thank you very much for sparing me disappointment and keep up the good work. ✌

@TheWatchFrame

4 ай бұрын

No problem and thanks. There are many very good brands out there to check with nice watches to discover like Lorier, Zelos or Traska to mention just a few.

@666kaamos666

4 ай бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame Thanks for the hints. Btw, yesterday I only listened to your recap, but today I actually read the email conversation and I have to admit, it's absolutely preposterous XD If I had any doubts this morning ("but the honeycomb dial looks soooo niiiice"), I definitely don't anymore. That doesn't sound like a person worth doing business with at all.

@TheWatchFrame

4 ай бұрын

@@666kaamos666yes, the emails I got and also some comments the very own Eddie made in this very video simply lying, and being caught lying, are surreal to say the least. But this said I honestly can't attest of the situation today given that Eddie is is bad health condition and David, his son, seems to be now very much in charge. I also need to mention that I did write to Eddie to sincerely wish him the best of prognosis and he replied thanking that. The watches, in any case, are fine indeed. The bracelets, in my experience, not that much. That I will not recommend or will have a Timefactors Smiths again, although I hope to someday have an original Smiths from the era, doesn't mean the watches are not good. If you can find a second hand one, that might be an option if you really like the watch. Again, maybe now Timefactors has changed. In any case what I'm sure is that, after having dealt with some brands, I do recommend to check Traska, Lorier and Zelos where you might find maybe not what you want, but what you need :)

@666kaamos666

4 ай бұрын

@@TheWatchFrameWhat I need is to stop buying watches 😆 Thanks again for the hints.

@TheWatchFrame

4 ай бұрын

@@666kaamos666🤣

The problem is not SMITHS but rather the PR man who is not so PR and a problem solver. I would suggest that the watch lug holes end on end will help you secure the metal bracelet bcos thats the function of the holes end lugs. All you need is a pin to hlp push the lug needle in placed.

@TheWatchFrame

10 ай бұрын

Yes, the point I wanted to make with this video was they way the owner of the company treated me and seemed to treat others. The issue with the end link is the anecdote that sparked what I would call a stupid behavior from the single person behind Timefactors back at the day. On the other hand what was defective was the end link and he could have easily solved this sending a spare end link and all would have been over. I have had similar issues with other brands and it all got solved easy and smooth. Going back to the end link, I had to get a thinner but resistant spring bar that would not be forced because of the twisted end link to fit the lug hole. With that it got solved so the person who bought the watch would not have issues until he managed to get another end link.

Woah, thankful I found this video. I was about to buy a watch on the 14th. Dodged a bullet

I agree with you. You have been changing bracelets out for some time and are not new at this. Pretty sure they know but even if they didn’t he could of at least advised on some of the fixes for new folks changing straps or bracelets out. The simple fact he sent you nothing but stupidity is a reflection on how he feels and thinks about his customers. I won’t be buying his product unless he apologizes. It won’t be my loss. Sorry you had to go through that but thank you for sharing.

@TheWatchFrame

Жыл бұрын

Thanks a lot for your worlds. You totally got the point of my video. I really appreciate your support.

I've really wanted to buy this, but I'm hearing from several people that he's terrible to deal with. Not sure it's worth the potential hassle. Thanks for sharing.

@xavierayayaell546

3 жыл бұрын

If you're not acting like a vindictive angry pleb you will probably be fine.

Wow ! Just bought one of these , will see how the process goes .. I bought more out of curiosity but probably wouldn’t of if I’d seen this message thread .. kinda taken the shine off ..

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

Really wish you a good experience. The watch is a good one! Enjoy it.

Thanks for sharing, Mario. I have seen other negative feedbacks about their customer service. I am glad that I have not placed my order yet.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for your words. I thought I had to create some awareness and of course there're many other alternatives there to these watches and probable with less problems to get one and most probably a better customer support!

Same experience at least 6 years ago. Rude and unprofessional then and now

Have been on the fence. This makes my mind up I will not buy. Love the looks of the watch but I will not deal with someone who treats customers like this.

I keep coming across so many complaints about this company and their after service. I strongly suggest the owner rethinks his PR. I thought about buying one, but now will look elsewhere. Thanks for the video.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks. Yes, this is not an isolated issue, but a general patern and it's sad to see so many professional channels not even mentioning and even recommending this nightmare.

I've had issues trying to fit one side of the bracelet back on a different watch around this price or maybe even higher. We can expect tolerances to be tight in good quality watches, but if one side is ever so slightly off, or the pin is slightly bent, it will make us struggle for sure. Either way, customer service is super important, I agree!

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

Exactly. More than the issue it's the way one is treated when asking for help.

Thankyou so so much... I Shan't be buying one of these watches. You've saved me from making a purchase . I can do without this drama, a company is only as good as its customer service... Can you suggest any other field watches I can look at..? With the same look?

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

First to mind comes Traska, with the Summiteer. I have a review about it. It is it's own thing, reliable, tough and nice looking. You also have some original field type watches in Lorier wathces. Both companies have outstanding customer support. Also have no personal experience experience but Borealis seem to be nice watches too with some original tweaks to make them a bit more different from the Explorer.

@temujinadonijah6365

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame thankyou for responding I shall look now..

Hi Mario. Nobody deserves that kind of treatment. I've read a couple of stories in the forums about his post sales/customer support and they were not in anyway near the definition of customer support.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Yes, and things seem to not have improved a bit from the latest feedback I'm getting, thus I believe watch channels should point this out. It's not something exceptional but just the way the owner of the brand is as a person.

Mario thanks for sharing i was going to buy one but after reading your experience and others I guess I will see other options thanks onceagain.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks. Here you can check some possible options both I got or considered.

I'd still buy a white explorer but it's always out of stock. What I'm reading in the comments about 'purchasing windows' makes me wonder where I am supposed to check for this, do i just refresh the site every day?

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

I'm going to help Mr. Eddie Platts with this one. The opening window is very thin, around a few minutes only. Best thing is for you to subscribe to the Timefactors newsletter so you will get an email with the information for the next opening: www.timefactors.com/subscribe.htm. Here you have information about the next opening: www.timefactors.com/closed2.htm. Once you know the exact opening moment the best thing is to be five minutes before the opening in front of your computer with your credit card information. Refresh the page of the watch information until able to buy it. If it doesn't open at the exact time or gets hanged, wait a few seconds and try again. There've been cases it took a few minutes for all to work. Once you have the watch in the basket, do not hesitate and go to pay the item as soon as possible. Best advice: do not wait and be first in line.

@pizza.doctor

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame thanks for the detailed reply! I'm probably just not going to buy it then. I don't like these types of games very much to be homest

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

@@pizza.doctor No worries. It's a very military type process to be true, but that's the way it is. First time I tried to buy it seems I failed. The black dial everest I got it second hand in Chrono24. Now I've finally gotten a Traska Summiteer in the pre-order period of a couple of days and everything worked as it should.

Thankyou for a very balanced review, it would be easy to turn this into a hatchet job but your review was very reasonable. I guess the vendor must be making enough sales from his unorthodox retail approach to not worry about whether or not people like it but i can't be bothered to jump through hoops to buy a watch when there are so many excellent watches out there you can just buy with no issues. That said, Timefactors do make some excellent watches.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

As a matter of fact I might be helping him as he's unable to cope with the demand of his excellent watches. But since I've adviced so many times for people to buy his watchs it's also a moral duty to inform about this situacion. As you say, there're so many beautiful watches and very nice brands out there. Just purchased a Lorier watch and finally set up to get the Traska Summiteer next month.

@johnbradshaw5900

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame The strange approach to retail I can recognize as his choice, if it works for him then good luck to him as it's his business (just as it is our choice whether or not to buy). However, good aftersales support and decent customer service shouldn't be affected by unorthodox selling practices. Other retailers (including many microbrand) do e-commerce and customer service extremely well so there is no reason others can't. I was interested in the Dreadnought Voyager as I wanted a tough diver watch for hostile environments (including recreational diving) and wanted a change from my default G Shock Frogman (magnificent watch if you are OK with quartz and digital). The GMT function would also be useful as i travel a lot internationally for work in normal times.The Dreadnought has a great specification and great price, it looked ideal.but i bought a Marathon GSAR which though marginally more expensive offered greater comfort in clearly being made in accordance with the ISO diver's standard so it is clear what you are getting (a pet hate of mine is dive watches which say nothing about what standards they are built to). Also i felt it was dishonest to put "Great Britain" on a watch made in Germany in a way which most would assume signifies built in Britain. It's not that i have anything against German watches, quite the opposite as my favourite watch companies are mainly German(Tutima, Muhl, Damasko, Sinn, Stowa) but i just didn't like the deceptive use of the words. I honestly never realized you had to jump through hoops to buy one.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

@@johnbradshaw5900 I believe the Smiths are made and assembled in Hong Kong but could be wrong. The Great Britain states as designed in Britain, which is true, but I agree that microbrands should be transparent with this. This is the way some are working, clearly telling where things are being made, like Traska, Lorier or Dan Henry for instance. I love quarz watches, have a few myself, but my eyesight is getting poorer thus I need simple three handers (if possible without date) and yes a GMT is very important. Now I have dual time zone wathc, a Glycine Double Twelve but in the future I the Lorier Hyperion in the short list. Also have a Stowa Marine in the short list, to replace the white Everest Expedition, but much further in the line. I totally agree, in this day and age, having good selling practices and great support care is being more and more important each day. Of course there can always be problems, but it's important to know how to solve them the best possible way for all the parties.

@denniskwok7613

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame. Eddie has never ever made any secret of the fact that his watches are made in Hong Kong. He has openly stated this multiple times on social media and in the Timefactors forum.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

@@denniskwok7613 I believe I haven't said the contrary. I just say that microbrands should all be transparent. I already knew about these watches being made in Hong Kong. I have no problem with that.

Very fair and balanced account of the experience from how the emails read, I’d be a lot more scathing had he treated me like that.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks. Well, I believe one should behave like a gentleman no matter what and thus I tried my best to bring a balanced view to the whole incident and let my actiotns speak louder than my words. That is the reason I sold the watches. Also wanted to give the owner of Timefactors some room to apologize and stop lying, but seems he wasn't able to do so.

Thank you for posting this Mario. I'm very glad I found your channel as I agree with you on many things. I too was hoping to purchase a Smiths Everest to have a 36mm 1016 homage, but I was disappointing in the buying experience. After waiting several weeks, I woke up early one Sunday and had a 5 minute window. My purchase didn't go through because my bank didn't allow the credit card payment to go through because it was "suspicious" by their system. I was so frustrated that I gave up on this watch and purchased an Explorer 114270 instead. Later when the 1016 itch returned, I was very pleasantly rewarded when I purchased an Incipio IX, a very nice Japanese 1016 homage. I plan to post a review video soon. Thank you!

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks. Looking forward for that review. Just subscribed to your channel.

@favoritethings3065

2 жыл бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame My channel is just in its infancy, but thank you for subscribing. I plan to work on it more and more.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

@@favoritethings3065 great! Looking forward :)

Thank you so much , muchas gracias, you’re right about your comments

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

¡Gracias!

A shame to hear your story. Was looking to buy both the the white dial and the black everest, for 1 year now, but this purchasing time slot kind of disturbed me to make the final move. Now I read your story, I will not buy them. I hate when people are so condescendant and give loose replies to avoid taking care of problems. Many thanks for your review

So sorry you experienced this Mario. In 2013 and 2014 had similar diabolical customer service from Doxa SUB and sold everyone in my collection using the same principles. Very sad.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

It is so sad when the people behind a brand behave like this. It's an awesome hobby but some individuals with huge insecurities really spoil all the fun. Thanks for commenting!

It's all unnecessary & disappointing. It does seem to me that that the seller may have 'internal issues' allegedly, although I'm not making any excuses for him. I was really interested in getting one of these but not now. Marc from Long Island Watches has a good reputation & is on KZread & offers an Explorer-like watch that I'll go for instead ( even with import taxes).N.B.:I'm not on any commission. Hope you've sold the watches & left this matter behind. Cheers.

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

All I can say from Marc is that he behaved like a gentleman one time I contacted him in order to buy a Seiko. He was willing to help to all extents. Really nice guy!

Thanks for the review. I bought the SanMartin version of this, and the Ranger too, and I'm very happy with both..

@TheWatchFrame

6 ай бұрын

Great! How's the Ranger. It's a model is calling me lately.

I have a sort of similar experience and it ended up going with different brand. Because apparently they do not need new customers since they have enough. I do not want to bother them😊 People taking them when they release then selling them overpriced. No thanks! The watches are very nice though but it doesn't mean it's everything.

Thanks for the heads up. Was planning on purchasing a few watches from timefactors. Instead I’ll just get one from a respectable brand like a second hand Omega or a new Ball.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

That is a very good option.

Thank you for this. I was considering picking up his Polerouter homage, but after reading this, I think I’ll pass. Quality control issues and poor customer service would leave me just disappointed with no interest in enjoying the timepiece!

@TheWatchFrame

7 ай бұрын

I believe Lorier has some true homages to the Polerouter now that I was tempted. You might want to check them out. The couple at Lorier are great people by the way.

@eggsII

7 ай бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame I’ve been eying that one as an alternative, for sure. Crystal and case shape are what’s keeping me from committing…

@TheWatchFrame

7 ай бұрын

Of course @@eggsII . I personally like the plexy on those watches. I have had a few and it's awesome, but it's true that sapphire give peace of mind, unless you hit the watch hard or it falls. About the case shape, that is very personal. I like it but I get it's not everybody's cup of tea.

Staying clear of these, a shame, seemed like a good choice at first.

@TheWatchFrame

Жыл бұрын

I thought so too, but at the end this is a lesson to go and find true sellers that genuinely respect their customers. That is key in this hobby.

Sorry to hear about your experience, I’ve sadly heard very similar stories elsewhere online. But with that said, are you looking to sell the Everest? If so maybe we can exchange messages somewhere, are you on Facebook? Instagram? Thank you 🙏

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

I already have some offers but I'm still preparing the advertisement at Chrono24. However you may reach me here: facebook.com/marioantoniopena (just send a message referring to this please as I'm getting tons of spam lately).

@theunsureavenger

3 жыл бұрын

Mario Pena pm sent 😊

Damn. I was doing some research because I was considering buying a watch from this rude, argumentative, arse clown. Thanks for your video mate. Anyone who treats customers like that deserves to go out of business. I know people from Sheffield & visit Sheffield & the people are lovely. He’s just a nasty POS.

So he think’s, he is Hans Willsdorf!

What an honest man. Thanks for sharing Mario, all the best. And its true they sit way up on a high horse, I mean who the f**k they think they are? They just bought the name of Smiths and use other brands designs at the end of the day.

I've had a couple email interactions with Eddie over the last decade, not a very pleasant person to be talking to. I finally made a purchase with this limited window store setup for the baby dreadnought and a caribbean, thankfully my watches arrived in great condition and running fine, which was a big relief as I have been reading of his legendary customer service for years. I don't mind the limited window so much, and I knew it was going to be a bit of a risk to make the purchases, but ultimately am glad I did as the watches were great quality at a great price to match. I am very tempted to make another purchase, but yes I know full well it won't go well for me should there be a problem. These watches are great but I can't recommend this process.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your experience. See, that's the thing. Having an unpleasant and, one could call, arrogant individual on the other side, is a big no no for me and that is the reason I advise against doing business with the company as a hole. Hope he somehow recognizes his big mistakes and makes something to solve them.

I’ve heard all the discussion about the attitude of Eddie and so as they say there’s no smoke without fire. But personally I’ve had email exchanges with Eddie over the past months in regards to new stock of the Everest black dial and he’s been nothing but helpful and open. His answers are always kind of short, a couple of sentences so not going into anymore detail than he needs but certainly no hostility. He’s also heavily involved in the forums and trying to give his customers what they want in terms of new updates to his watches. Sorry about your situation though, maybe it was meant to be… otherwise maybe you’d never have gotten your new Rolex 😄

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Yes, it's all part of the trip and there are good and bad experiences. I really hope Mr. Platts finally understands that customers have to be treated in a different way he does or did when there are issues. Of course, while things are well, we all are basically nice. But when problems arise, there's where you measure the kind of person you are dealing with.

@kelechinobi3085

Жыл бұрын

Just out of interest, how have Rolex been treating you?

Wish I’d seen this video last week as I went through the anxiety of trying to get an Everest last weekend. The order button came active and I had all my details in within 60 seconds and still missed out. In hindsight I probably dodged a bullet. What a crazy way to do business. This Eddie guy has had a bit of a captive audience with the Explorer homage, but hopefully now there are better quality watches from the likes of San Martin and the newly released Steinhart Adventure, everyone will opt for these instead of giving this guy their hard earned money.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for commenting. I'm actually preparing now a video talking about my alternatives or choices and also recommending to avoid Timefactors as a whole. As you say, San Martin or Steinhart have a more honest approach to direct design copies, specially San Martin that, al least, adds some originality with the applied markers. Also you have the Sinn 556A that, although more expensive and not having I tried on, seems, to me, the perfect alternative with its own thing.

@mikej5959

2 жыл бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame IF you really wantto make your own smiths san martin will gladly do it for you. Just dont use the same font and they are totally cool with it and theres nothing Time factors can do about it either.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

@@mikej5959 actually one thing that I would gladly do is buy a true vintage Smiths watch. These are beautiful pieces and might get one in the future.

@mikej5959

2 жыл бұрын

@@TheWatchFrame Yeah all Time factors did is buy the name. I think its cool what they did and would gladly buy one if I could get a hold of one with piece of mind but thats just not possible sadly..

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

@@mikej5959 Yes, better look of alternatives like the coming Traska Summiteer at 36 or the new Lorier Falcon with the same size.

I think there problem is that timefactors is a one man show. he contracts the manufacturing. why can't he hire some help and become a full time store? the products are great, and demand exceeds availability - surely they could make more overhead work with increased sales.

@lapelcelery42

3 жыл бұрын

From the sounds of his messages I wouldn't be surprised if he couldn't find anyone willing to work with him.

Good video, and right so!

thank you Mario, I was looking at Smiths traveler but now I will not buy it since bad customers service is absolute deal breaker!

@TheWatchFrame

2 ай бұрын

Thanks for commenting. As I usually say, there are other very good if not better options out there! :)

Thanks for this review. I was looking forward to getting their GMT later this year. But if Customer Service is this rude i would rather not go thru with it. They need to get some CS training from likes of Direnzo, Nodus, Zelos , etc.

@TheWatchFrame

Жыл бұрын

That is so true!

@gentlemani9150

8 ай бұрын

dude, dont fall for this one sided experience with TF. Its HARD to buy anything on their site, but thats because the demand of those watches is INSANE. extremely well built, and amazing designs. Ive had bought 2 watches from them, and when i had an issue ive emailed Eddie (the owner) and he was helpful, ALWAYS.

@RohanKalyanpur

8 ай бұрын

@@gentlemani9150 ok, thanks for pitching in. If i see a watch i cant resist i will give them a try if at all i can buy one :)

Only recently decided that this watch was the one for me. I was even willing to go through the "lottery" when trying to buy. After seeing your video a couple of days ago I have now decided to either never buy one or to wait for the hype to die down and get one at a later date. It appears to be accepted watch-business practice to deliberately restrict supply. I completely fail to see how this benefits the manufacturer unless they are selling them via another outlet as being used at a huge mark-up.

@TheWatchFrame

Жыл бұрын

My advice would be to take a look at Traska Watches. In a couple of months are going to open the store for their watches and these are awesome.

no company is indispensable, they may think because they sell out that they don't need to care, i wonder if there is a response from them in these comments apologising! its easy to forget about this review as i now 7 months later was looking at smiths again, so I'm glad i saw this review again, which reminded me .. i think i will put it under a DO NOT BUY LIST as i totally am against poor customer service and am a loyal buyer so i dont need something like this from a company

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

He answered but only to lie and be caught in his lies, proving all my points.

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Also check Traska, great company with great people that will put the new redesigned Summiteer late February. A true homage of the Explorer, in the right meaning of the word, and not a direct design copy like the Smiths (the Everest I mean, the Expedition is inspired in an actual Smiths watch from back in the day). The Traska Summiteer has a new dial design that will make it look much better as we suggested in this channel.

I also will avoid TimeFactors, and abort my planned purchase. At least TF should have offered a courteous response. And some solutions.

@TheWatchFrame

8 ай бұрын

True!

@gentlemani9150

8 ай бұрын

i dont know what happened with this dude but ive had an issue with a bracelet end of a baby dreadnought and eddie is sending me a entirely new bracelet. Ive bought 2 watches from TF and i will keep on supporting Eddie and its family. I have nothing but good things to say about him and the company

@TheWatchFrame

8 ай бұрын

Good for you, @@gentlemani9150, but mine was in no way an isolated story. Maybe things have changed now. Maybe all the criticism has made him change an realize that some ways of treating, at least some people, is not the way to go.

I agree the buying experience sucks ass how do you run a website when you cant even go on the website and purchase something at anytime? It makes no sense. If you cant produce enough supply then dont get into selling a product...

@TheWatchFrame

3 жыл бұрын

As a matter of fact this is not the worst part of the whole thing. Many micro brands work in such fashion, although, usually with way better webs, pre sale events and so on. Also normal micro brands don't fail in issues like reserving the payment in the cards of the clients only to realize you have a limit period to do so. This is selling 101. Also I did inform Mr. Platts about the possible issues trying to have those amounts on hold on accounts for a long period of time. It's not like I didn't try to be supportinve all the way (being a promoter of his brand). The problem here is that Mr. Platts seems to have some kind of insecurity and he tries to do everything in his business. I know how these things end up finally. The person simply breaks and so the whole business with him. It's not like he has a great health (and I truly wish him to recover from his surgeries). He could have teamed with a couple of professionals, maybe hire a CEO to run the business as a whole and he could only concentrate on the presidency and the design of the watches. Should have he hired a person for public relationships and customer support, and this stupid interaction would have never happened. Now, he's selling a product people like and want, and some believe that he must be cool for doing so. Well, he's not, he's chill and you can fool people for a while, but not forever. Time tic tacs (pun intended) :D.

I have the PRS-29 and the PRS-29AM and never had any issues with anything you said

@TheWatchFrame

2 жыл бұрын

Well, that is all great and fine. I suspect many people haven't either, specially if nothing went wrong with their watches, which is quite possible. I however tell from my own experience proved by the email exchange I provided. Even the owner commented in this very video confirming my story and lying by the way... and got caught in his lies. So that much for Timefactors that to this day hasn't been able to apologize.