I own two Montas. I love the way they look and wear. The other thing I love is that it’s a quality watch from someone other than Rolex or a Swatch subsidiary. I don’t have to play stupid games with an AD to “build rapport” or whatever other term they’re using to justify buying things you don’t want to have the right to buy something you do. The folks at Monta are great. They shipped me new endlinks free of charge when I dropped one and lost it. They offered me a brand new strap on the house when one I bought had an issue. Didn’t ask for the old one back. I happened to be in Saint Louis so I stopped by the office and the president of the company installed the strap for me. He spent a bunch of time chatting. I’d rather give that dude my money.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

This is very true. The funny thing is that these Monta reviews always seem to go the same way. There are a handful of people who have seen them, or own them and love them. Then there is everyone else who doesn't believe it can be that good.

@andromedagodit2492

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime N that would likely be a poor Rolex fan... There I said it! 🤣😂

I'd love to see a comparison between this and the Ginault Silent Service.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

I'd love to, but not sure that will be possible. I have to send this one back soon, but beyond that, I'm not sure I can get my hands on a Silent Service. I was the last reviewer to cover the Ocean Rover before the shit hit the fan a few years ago and all the Rolex fanboys came out with pitchforks. Going after any channel that had anything to do with them. Tried emailing them a little after that (still pre Silent Service) to see how things were going and never heard back. At the time I figured they were trying to distance themselves from all that, or weren't happy with some comments I made. But I can try again, I've been wanting to see it.

@Mackster248

2 ай бұрын

I had the SS and ultimately sold it. The fit and finish disappointed me -- sharp edges and wasn't as nicely finished as my Chris Ward. It also felt clunky and didn't wear as nice on my 7in wrist. I also did not like the Sapphire Bezel insert. But that's literally my only complaints, the SS is amazing on everything else. Ran perfect, lume was amazing, better bezel action than my BB58, and overall good design. I hope to have an Oceanking one day to compare.

@EdmundPorter-ju8kd

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime I don’t understand the reference to Rolex fanboys. I don’t know that story.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

@@EdmundPorter-ju8kd I guess it's been a while and many have forgotten, but it's the craziest thing I've seen over the years running the channel. But it's important to know about when talking Ginault. It's a long story, but I'll try to make it as short as I can. So the Ocean Rover I (ORI) was immediately controversial because it was a high-quality, high-priced sub Homage. One a lot of reviewers raved about and said was "close, but not quite, Rolex levels of quality". Which included many reviewers who knew Rolex pretty well.. Now this course annoyed the Rolex faithful... to them, it was nothing more than a cheap Chinese knockoff. It certainly didn't help that Ginault has always been very secretive, and didn't help that the ORI used what they said was an in-house, made in America, movement. One that looked completely blank, and they later swapped to a SW200 for the ORII. Anyway, a few weeks after I put out my review, some anonymous blogger named "DeepDweller" posted a rather long investigative expose trying to link Ginualt to a well-known Replica maker. Can't remember the guys name, but he was well-known in the replica community. Who just happened to stop making and selling replicas right when Ginault started making the OR. Now random people say crazy stuff all the time, but this went viral in the watch community. The night it went live I got multiple emails and multiple DMs from people telling me to check it out, and I needed to get ahead of it whatever this meant. In fact if you want, I think DeepDweller's (can't make this crap up) blog is still up and you can read it, but honestly, it's not worth it. Most of it comes across as bad Law in Order Fan Fiction. But he did have one solid piece of evidence. He looked at the metadata of a photo the replica maker posted of one his watches. Then the metadata of a photo Ginault had posted and found the serial number of the lens used was the same. So as far as I'm concerned he did prove a connection, but beyond that there are lots of questions. Including does it really matter? If true the guy had stopped making replicas and may have made Gianult to go straight so to speak. Although for the Rolex fan boys none of that mattered. This proved their point and they were out with pitchforks. Going after every review and reviewer they could find associated. Causing many to delete their reviews and pretend it never happened, including Adrian. Whereas some made videos trying to capitalize on and talk about the controversy. Like JustBlueFish and 24hrs at a time. I pretty much stood my ground. Luckily the video didn't do very well, so I was low on the list to go after. But it was still the most amount hate and troll-like comments I've had to deal with. At one point I was even convinced my channel was going to get deleted. As a friend of mine had his deleted a month before after showing a replica. So I knew it could happen, and some of these guys were out for blood. Anyway, it was a crazy time. Especially after that DeepDweller guy started emailing me directly. Longer story with that.

@EdmundPorter-ju8kd

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime The Horological Inquisition. Amazing story. Glad to watch your videos.

Frankly, I buy quality not brand names. Monta is arguably the best microbrand. I like this diver very much.

@andromedagodit2492

2 ай бұрын

Touché mate. You hit the nail on the head. If some microbrands can hit the quality mark at sub 400 prices... I fail to see why don't we go for them or why must we pay thousands or 10s of thousands for just the Swiss Made label...

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Well, oftentimes there is extra quality associated with those higher prices. But the trick is that it's never a linear relationship. Like a watch that costs $2000 is never 5x as good as a $400. And at some point, especially with luxury brands your more buying into the idea of something.. what that brand represents than getting anything physical that is worth that. I think the best thing is to really find a good realistic balance. One between want and need. Which might wind up being different for each of us.

@andromedagodit2492

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime Touché. Well shared indeed mate. 👍😊

I pre-ordered this, it's absolutely awesome. Wear it all the time.

I enjoy your videos. I was saving my pennies with an Oris in mind. AD in St. Louis, where I live has Monta. Never heard of them before so I did some research and went back to look and compare. Design/style is individual but it seems to me fit, finish, detail & especially the bracelet Monta is wildly impressive. I have 8” wrist and they all felt great and wore well. Now my penny jar is slowly accumulating for a Monta.

@oguinnicus

2 ай бұрын

Email their customer service and schedule a showroom visit. It’s nice to chat with them.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

One of the constants I've seen with Monta reviews, is the comments are divided by those that have seen one in person, and those who haven't. Which one are you looking at?

@EdmundPorter-ju8kd

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime I really liked the Atlas GMT with white dial. Not at all what I was looking for. Gonna take my time and visit them all.

What a great review: you're soft-spoken, knowledgable and you make some good points along the way like why Monta has something to offer that Tudor doesn't. I'm an instant subscriber and will definitely look at your other videos. Something tells me that you're not just covering Rolex, Tudor, Omega, Grand Seiko which in itself is also refreshing. Great work. :)

@RelativeTime

24 күн бұрын

Thank you kindly, glad you liked it. Generally, I cover more affordable watches and have been touching on a few higher-priced things recently.

I am really liking Monta. Very happy to have discovered it. One thing I wish to see, is a smaller square below the date window so that there isn't a void when looking at the watch at night. They already did it with the Triumph and Noble and it looks great!

This looks really good I’m liking the updated subby design

I basically bought the SPB299 because of you and couldn't be happier. Mainly because the case is perfect in my opinion. It's big and has a strong presence but shrinks on the wrist. Has a great and unique shape, and combination of brushing and polishing. its just so damn lovely to look at from every angle

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Glad you like it. I love mine. I don't think Seiko Fans pay nearly enough attention to the MMR case. They always focus on the Willards or 62mas, but it's the best by far.

@nicholassmith9509

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime Yup, 100% agree with all of that. Thanks for responding and keep up the good work!

Great review, I just bought an ocean king and I absolutely love it you hit all the nails on the head! I love the look of a Rolex sub, but don't like the attention it brings or the hole that it would leave in my wallet. I think this watch has all the design elements that I love and would want incorporated in a sub anyways like the date at 6, just makes it so much more symmetrical! The fit and finish is fantastic and I love how it's not a heavy lug on my wrist. I haven't seen your videos before but randomly stumbled on to this you got a new subscriber!

Great review! Team Monta💪🏾

I had the please of meeting the Monta folks in nyc last year at an expo... As luck would have it, I wore my skyquest. They looked shocked to see one of in the wild :D

Great review as always… Nice watch… I like that style… sort of a lid’l bit like my Super Ocean Heritage… plain & classy for a diver… 👍😊

This watch is about as close to a Submariner I’d get. Love the sword hour hand and 56 hr power reserve. Yet another great review. Have a great weekend Shane.

There is a significant difference between this watch and the tutor despite being a micro brand this watch does have a decent amount of quality.

Nice review, Shane. Balanced and fair as always. I must be entering the "starting to sound like my dad" era of my life because when I hear $2500, my first thought is that my first two cars each cost less than that 🤣 This watch is beautiful, but I have some internal limit around $1000 for a "nice" watch right now. And with all the interesting options in that range, I'm still enjoying variety more than having that "one great watch".

I got to see, but not handle the v3 OK at Windup last summer. It looked great! I'm not sure Rolex has a patent on black lacquered dial dive watches with ceramic bezels. It does have a Rolex vibe, but I think that's more in the quality of the work and overall materials used. The hands, indices, and date are all completely different from a Sub. Anyway, the sharpness on the end of the clasp is interesting. I have a black dial Triumph that's a year old, so I have the previous clasp. I don't like how I have to press hard for at least this gen of clasp to latch. It feels and sounds extremely solid though. It's not going anywhere. It's just not the buttery smoothness of Tudor (tried many, don't own) and Rolex (do own) clasps. The SW300 based movement in my Triumph has been great, running about +3.5sec/day, though I do wish mine had the 56 hour power reserve of the newer models. My Triumph is exceptionally comfortable on wrist and I grow to like it more the longer I own it. I really appreciated the comparison to Oris here, as I think that's definitely more appropriate. Tudor's are quite a bit more money. Some may say but a used Tudor is less. Yes, but not only do you have blemishes and such, but a used Monta is also going to be cheaper as well. As Oris found, going to an in house movement is a tricky proposition in this price range. The Aquis Cal. 400 is significantly more expensive than the standard versions. They also take a huge hit in value, even slightly used. I think that's more telling about where the market thinks it should be priced. I hope we'll see some expanded colors for the Oceanking this year. A blue lacquered dial, maybe something like the previous Black Bay 36 shade would be interesting. As it is, I think this is a solid release by Monta.

Monta definitely makes watches with an extremely high level of finish. My Noble is incredibly finished and dressy. I would choose Monta over Tudor for the price and lesser servicing cost. I do really like the SW300 in my Noble, it's a very good upgrade from the SW200. The whole $1200-2500 price category has some strong competition with CW, Oris and Longines, etc.

Great review and a very sharp looking diver. However, at this price point they need to do case hardening.

The highest quality micro brand diver I have ever encountered is Orange Watch Company. I have many dive watches (gave my vintage Rolex sea dweller to my godson). My OWC is my absolute favourite. It’s a blast to wear! I think it is superior to the Rolex in every criteria, apart from the movement (and the movement is certainly accurate enough). On different note, my Pittman two has the splittable 300 movement. I think it was $1100 when I bought it. Montan charging more than 2x the price for the same movement does not make sense to me. Thanks Shane, as always, for another great review.

@grahambeer8179

2 ай бұрын

Love apple spellcheck. Pitzmann, Selitta 300, Monta.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

LOL... I was going to ask if you were doing Voice to text from as bad as it was. But I got the jist of it.

Ironically, I read that they hired a new designer for this version? I think it looks great. All those comments about a Sub homage is something people say about similar design. I think it's far from that. Especially the hands and dial markers. I think that calls back to the old Omega Seamasters. And I love that 90's design. However, I will wait until they have more dial colors. I already have their Noble. Don't need another black diver.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

I wonder how much of the homage talk is just do to how influential the black sub is in the watch community. To the point, you see a case like that with black dial and black bezel and you immediately think about it without looking at all the details. It's kind of like whenever I review a Pepsi GMT, there is always someone commenting its an unoriginal Rolex rip-off regardless of what the rest of the watch looks like.

Definitely one of the highest quality Microbrands out there. It’s a terrific watch. Thanks for the great review. And yes for someone like me, where this watch and a Tudor is way outside my price range, if I were to somehow be able to afford one, I would definitely buy the Tudor even though like you said, it’s not “just a little bit more.” Picky you say…

I have the Geneault Silent Service, is it better than that watch? The on the fly clasp is too easy to move, but other than that and the lack of the flower on the clasp, I love my SS.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

I haven't seen the SS, so hard to say. I do have the Ocean Rover though. Like the first gen one with "mystery movement". From that, I'd say Monta beats it out slightly. For me, the big advantage is the bracelet with female end links. It's much more comfortable, but Ginault has a better clasp.

Monta has been on my radar for a long time unfortunately their prices make them out of reach for me. But the quality is obvious and they're beautiful as well. One day maybe I will own a Monta.

@RelativeTime

5 сағат бұрын

Monta is great, but yeah the price is high. Sometimes you can find a good price on a used one. That's how I bought my Triumph. I wasn't sure if they were worth that much, but I found a good deal on eBay and decided to try it.

Looking for a GADA I cross shopped the Noble v Tudor BB36 smile dial. Went with the Noble for the price, better bracelet, and basically same movement. It doesn't look out of place next to my GS and BB58.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

The Noble is great. If I didn't already have my triumph I'd buy one. Which color did you get?

@A_Dude_And_His_Watch78

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime anthracite. Did a comparison on my channel with my GS.

It's either this or a Christopher Ward Aquitaine for me. I think I prefer the white sand CW and it's cheaper. But can't deny this looks great. Far better than any mainstream Swiss Diver. I also really like the Tuseno Shellback. Also, thankfully they have a date.

@maitrehg

Ай бұрын

Can't go wrong with CW or Monta. Way better than some big names.

The Axios Ironclad was pretty much the same, even had a Selllta movement. You can buy two and a half Christopher Ward C60 divers for the same price as the Monta

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Unfortunately it seems like Axios is now belly up, or will be. Pity as I really liked their watches. As for CW.. man I remeber when they had the best watches for under $1000. Inflation sucks.

@dorningarts

2 ай бұрын

Christopher Ward has impressive finishing, and cases. The handset and logo leave MUCH to be desired

@watchalot919

2 ай бұрын

@@dorningarts I actually love the logo, but that's personal taste

@darkwingduckish

2 ай бұрын

What a shame to hear! I have been very happy with my lronclad for years. You're probably closer to the source, but where can I find out more about the current status of the brand? Could you give us a hint?​ Thx alot :) @@RelativeTime

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

@@darkwingduckish that's a good question. Someone might still be responding to emails. Or I'll try asking in the Zelos Facebook group. Someone there might now. Maybe they are just on hiatus..Elshan could be too busy with Zelos now.

Yepp, all points valid.

Monta, Traska and Clemence: 3 microbrands that are top notch!

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Very true.

The only thing I dislike is that the five minute marks along the minute track aren't thicker. Otherwise, I'd love to own one of these.

Hard competition vs Christopher Ward C60 Trident Pro 300, which has similar specs, but much greater bang for buck. I think the asking price is a bit much in light of the CW offering. I would go the CW for a microbrand price, or pay more and get the Tudor. This one sits in the "awkward zone" for sure. I was typing "awkward zone" just moments before you said the same thing at 12:40

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Lol yeah, awkward is the best way to describe it. Although this one seems to be the most expensive Monta yet. Prices seem to be up everywhere, even Christopher Ward. But I wonder how much of that is inflation and how much of it is changes to the design from the version 2.

@maitrehg

Ай бұрын

Monta is in another category. It's even a good deal at this price considering the quality.

When it comes to luxury, the other thing "holding it back" is the brand. Like it or not, people pay for a name because it's a big part of the luxury image. In the eyes of the world Monta < Oris < Tudor < Rolex.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

This is true. and those rankings make perfect sense. In the luxury world, image is a big part of the justification. But does it matter for Monta as a lot of people wouldn't consider them to be a luxury watch? They seem to be in that awkward in-between space between the higher-end mainstream and luxury.

If they had added a black rehaut it would have helped the watch look more unique.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

That's a great idea.

For that price...... Yes I would buy a tudor!

TBH, the only submariner lookalike I like more than this is the Hexmariner. And I don't even like the submariner 😂

How does the Monta compare with Christopher Ward. I have 2 CWs and they looks very similar to the Monta. As for myself, I think the price point is a little high. For about half the price or less, you can get a CW. Or even less, a Steinhart. Or for just a bit more, you can get a used Omega SMP 300 Pro.

@dorningarts

2 ай бұрын

I have owned the Monta and a Christopher Ward Trident, The Monta is on another level

@oguinnicus

2 ай бұрын

I don’t know that I agree with the other commenter. I think they’re comparable. I think the case shape is slightly more interesting on the Monta and that the bracelet is more comfortable. I think the finishing is comparable, and I think CW’s bracelet clasp is better. I swap back and forth between a CW and a Monta most days.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

From the two CW's I have, and the other couple I've been lent. I'd say Monta is better. CW is fantastic, and especially so before prices started going up. But there are some finer touches Monta does that CW hasn't. At least not in the ones I've seen. I've never looked at some of their newer higher-end stuff. Like the Bel Canto.

@maitrehg

Ай бұрын

Monta is in another category. It's even a good deal at this price considering the quality.

@dorningarts

Ай бұрын

@@maitrehg totally agree

Great watch but with the lack of originality , and history at the price point you can pick up a longines hydro conquest gmt for around the same and black bay 58’s can be found for around 2700 ish on the grey market in excellent to new condition. $1750 would be a great price for these

@maitrehg

Ай бұрын

I like the look of the new Hydro Conquest GMT but I would prefer a three-handed version. I already had an older Hydro Conquest and I can say that my Monta is of much better quality and much more comfortable.

I can answer the main question pretty easily. I recently sold my Tudor Pelagos (blue dial) which I bought from an AD to purchase this Monta Oceanking. Why did I do this? The Pelagos had issue, issues that I couldn’t swallow at 5k retail. Bezel kept jamming up and the lume in the bezel was starting to fall out. Made me sick. I realized it was time to get out of it. I went back to my friends at Monta as I owned a Triumph at one point and they offered excellent quality and customer service. I have no regrets other than I wish I would’ve just never gotten the Tudor. Food for thought

@RelativeTime

Ай бұрын

How would you compare the quality between the two?

@spencerpardue422

Ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime I’d give it to the Oceanking for sure. After owning a Ranger and Pelagos, I’ve seen that Tudor is hyped up because it’s related to the crown. Not saying Tudor is bad, but the quality & details is simply not that of a Monta

@maitrehg

Ай бұрын

​@@spencerpardue422I have had and still own Tudors and I can say that my Monta Oceanking v3 is very similar in quality. Apart from the bezel action and sounding which are incomparable on Tudors and Rolexes, everything else is very close.

i would shoot for the davosa for the price and quality but very nice watch in any market.

@dorningarts

2 ай бұрын

I owned the Ternos and the Monta version2 , the Monta is way above Davosa in finishing, especially the bracelet, . That being said I think the Davosa Ternos is the best sub $1000 diver I have seen

@maitrehg

Ай бұрын

Ternos and Oceanking are two différent animals. Not in the same league at all.

@dorningarts

Ай бұрын

@@maitrehg totally agree

Looks like a homage to the Omega Seamster 300 ref 165.024

Looks like a 100 other dive watches, even though 99% of people who own a dive watch have never gone diving

The build quality looks great, but at the price point, I’d look at the used market for something like a used Omega or Tudor (how I got my Seamaster), or spend less and get a more distinct design from Zodiac or Squale. Love me a nice micro brand, but at the same time, the $2000-3000 dollar watch market is pretty saturated with fairly distinct offerings. Great review Shane! Thanks for uploading!

Different is always good, even if it isn't any good🤔 and I need another White Speedmaster video, like I need a new album from New Kids on the Block

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

hopefully, we are done with those for a bit... but I'm sure we will have a bunch of BB 58 GMT videos now. Which if you have the watch in for review is one thing, but all the hot horologists speculating over pictures gets old fast.

@davidlloydjones752

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime I suspect like me, you weren't glued to Watches & Wonders then😀

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

@@davidlloydjones752 😃 nope.

For me I would go with my choice of BB58 over Monta because I am happy to pay the extra for brand heritage, in house movement and finally better looks (in my opinion obviously). To me it is fairly priced and worth it. However I would go for a Formex Essence over an Aqua Terra which it clearly influenced by. With its COSC movement and excellent quality it is very good value and more interesting looking, and the Aqua Terra, in my view, is overpriced.

@maitrehg

Ай бұрын

Can't go wrong with a BB58 ! Not a fan of Omega's design. Often goofy. The dress clasp on the Aqua Terra is just pathetic.

Wait did they raise the price ?

@RelativeTime

Ай бұрын

I think there was a sales price when the V3 was first released. But I think it's been the same since then.

If you offered me a swap between my silent service and this monta i would choose the Ginault everytime and the ss is 1000$ cheaper! Monta definitely copied the ss bezel. We would love to see a comparison between the 2. Please make it happen

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

I still have the Ocean Rover 1, and would love to see the Silent Service. I'll see what I can do, but not sure if they will lend me one.

@maitrehg

Ай бұрын

Bezel ??? The SS is sapphire and have big numbers. Two totally different bezels.

I heard about this company for the first time (sounds like one of the Chinese watch microbrands, sorry fans!). Anyway, this watch looks so much like Longines Hydroconquest GMT, but $400 less in price. Also clasp... looks so much Rolex inspired. I went with San Martin SN0136 which is a homage to Longines GMT, and the quality is amazing, with NH34 movement which keeps great time, and for only $300. Wearing it daily everywhere.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Monta has been around for a bit now. Maybe 7-8 years. One of their sister brands is Everest Bands, who specialize in making some of the best aftermarket fitted bands Rolex. So they definitely had a focus on Rolex when they decided to start making their own watches.

@maitrehg

Ай бұрын

​@@RelativeTimeExactly 👍

I actually like the Ginault Silent Service better. And it’s cheaper.

@RelativeTime

Ай бұрын

At some point I'd like to see one in person. I'm curious how it compares to the Ocean Rover.

That shape of the 12 index is called a trapezoid

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

I know, I was just tryign to add some flavor.

I thought it looked horrible. Huge case & small actual dial that’s too busy to separate and see the time. Love diver watches that’s equally balanced The newer (Tudor 36) black bay is amazing even in my 7 1/4 wrists. New (in house) movement that Cos certified and the Dial stands out and so easy to see. Or the newer 39 mm Black Bay. Both can be picked up in the ($3,200-$3,700) range. Yes it’s more then ($2,500) but trust me as bought and sold so many watches that are of quality. Buy what you like.. Do your homework and never buy anything that’s on an impulse. Take several months and narrow your decision down to 2 watches.. And if in the same price range (plus or minus $500-$1,000) if the watch you decide that’s a lifetime keeper.. Then that’s your watch. You might have to wait 3-6 more months but you will feel great about it several years down the line . I’m not a Tudor fanboy I bought a few Rolex that I sold Because I bought them for the wrong reason.. Family telling me you got to get a Rolex.. After 6 months I said Rolex is not who I am.. I enjoy quality watches that only connect with me and never on an impulse. I want the dial & movement to be the highlight of my collection This Monta ? If you’re just comparing ($1,000-$3,500) divers wouldn’t even make the list.. Just an honest observation from a 60 year old man and my 3 sons who was there when I watch your video.. So many better choices Greg

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Well if your looking at watches in the $1-2k range. What would be the top of your list. And for you would you say a more intersting design is more important the quality of the build?

@Greg-fi3op

2 ай бұрын

Hey, Thanks for your reply.. If I read your comment correctly. Quality built yes is important.. But now these days ( sense several micro brands came on the scene) Making fantastic quality watches .. Theres several quality watches out there to compare especially in the ($1,000-$1,500) micro brands camp. I was trying to make a point that for me I didn’t like that watch at all.. Mainly because it’s too busy for me and the case size made the dial look small.. It’s not at all easy to see the time because of that.. Case was just overbearing the good looking but too busy dial) I honestly think there’s not to much separation (in case & dials) of a $1,000 micro brand to a ($2,000) non micro Quality built cases and dials is important.. When quality is there.. I will always go with the best dial and movements.. An in house movement by Omega are the best value compared to anything else out there.. So, You can pick up a new Omega ( non diver) with there 8800 or 8900 top of the line and a lot of people say omega movements are better then Rolex.. I believe it I have 2 Omega’s that keep perfect time and has a 6 year warranty and doesn’t even need to be looked at for servicing for 10 years You can spend your $$ so much more wisely if you can spend ($2,400-$3,000) buying something that’s so much better ( movement wise) then spending ($2,500) on a watch that just uses a Sellita 200 or 300 Sorry I got off sidetrack But Most people doesn’t consider that.. That Omega watch I was talking about One is the Omega sea master rail master and the other is a Aqua Terra I have both Bought the Aqua Terra 5 years ago new for ($3,000) And 2 years ago the RailMaster for ($2,700) The RailMaster is currently like ($2,300) Those are just options in spending the same money ($2,500) But That’s me… You gotta absolutely love what you have… If that’s a $500 watch and you love it .. Fantastic..

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

@@Greg-fi3op Thanks for the well-thought-out reply, and ultimate the design and how you like it is the most important thing. Which do you like better, the AT or Railmaster?

@Greg-fi3op

2 ай бұрын

You asked a great question.. I bought the Aqua Terra (Silver Dial) which is really a creamy white It’s stunning Absolutely the best looking piece I own.. But it heavily and the lume was not good.. I like Lume.. It was and still is plus 3 seconds a day It’s a classy looking watch But I wear the RailMaster much more It’s not as classy but it wears and feels perfect on my 7 1/4 wrist It’s a little smaller and lighter then the Aqua Terra And that makes all the difference in the world It has much much better lume Best I’ve owned in Lume I thought people would notice my Aqua Terra more But nope I get a lot of compliments on the RailMaster.. I bought the Blue Dial So I would buy the RailMaster all the time over the Aqua Terra I now wear usually 3 watches Longlines Master Collection Moonphase It looks so classy Close to the Auqa Terra (2) Omega Railmaster (3) Tudor 36 new version Black Bay I absolutely love those 3 watches.. I pick other 36mm black bay over the 39 My thoughts I have a 41 Aqua Terra I have a 40mm longlines I have a 38 mm RailMaster And now wanted a small watch 36 black bay That 36 black bay looks like a 38-39 Because the actual dial takes up more case space It feels perfect and I get a lot of compliments Love what you do Greg

For the price I’d go Longines.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

I'd love to see the Hydroconquest GMT. Now I can't say how this compares to that or a regular Hydroconquest, but it's definetly better then my regular conquest. Although that's one on a lower price point.

@maitrehg

Ай бұрын

I had a Hydro Conquest and I find my Monta Oceanking v3 to be truly superior in every way ... except the name 😉

You have also Formex or Oris in this price range. The design of this one is meh for me, it does not touch my heart. And also there is CW out there, maybe no so top, but close, and way cheaper. I´d rather prefer other Monta models

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

I really need to check out Formex. Curious how the quality compares. Heard lots of good things.

@maitrehg

Ай бұрын

The normal Aquis and Diver 65 can't compete with this Oceanking. For quality and comfort, Monta is far superior.

01:55 - For me, brands doing that, it just comes off as disingenuous. If you modify your toyota, it is still a toyota, just modified.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Agreed

there is no doubt that it is a really fine looking and made watch, however, why I am getting the feeling that Monta Ocean king is becoming more and more like a homage to Rolex Subby? When the Ocean King the first version came out, it had its own identity and looks (& feels), but now it does look like a younger brother to Ginault Ocean Rover & silent service. Nonetheless, I like the look and the specs....Just too expensive for me to pull the trigger.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Do you remember how much the first version was when it came out? Something I've been curious about.

@alexsdg3441

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime yeah... I actually bought one. I think that it was about $1500 or something. But that one had some issues. Especially clasp wasn't good. the glide lock feature worked okay, but the clasp was too long and not curved enough to conform to your wrist. As for the dial design, it wasn't that interesting either, so I just sold it on eBay after 6 month later. It seems like they have fixed the issues, but looking more like Ginault / Rolex and price went up $1000 more which is just too much for me.

@alexsdg3441

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime also, by the way, I bought Ginault Silent Service. The greatest micro-brand watch that I have owned. I have been buying micro brand watches since 10 years ago and I believe I have bought virtually every one of them under $2000 price range.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

@@alexsdg3441 been curious about that one. I still have the Ocean Rover I. The one with the "who knows what it really is" movement. But I've been curious to see how they've come along over the last few years. I'm tempted to reach out to them, but also kind of hesitant to review another. I was the last reviewer to see the OR1 before all the crazy stuff happened about it. When that dude published his investigative expose and all the Fanboys went after the reviewers.

@alexsdg3441

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime I also bought OR1 (actually I have bought 2 or 3 times) but I had to sell it off soon or later, mainly due to the unreliable bad movement. after few month, it just went too slow or too fast. I took it to my watch maker and he refused to regulate for me because he does not want to touch China made movement and he does not want to be responsible. However, I just loved their design (especially the sword hour hand. for me, I do not like Rolex mercedes hour hand design) and felt really really good on my wrist. And the clasp.....that was GOOD!!!! of course, not as good as the real Rolex clasp, but at that time (5 years ago), it was the best in the market beside the Rolex glide lock. After the Deep-Throat came out, I stayed away for a while, but Ginault released OR2. I bought it because it had SW200 or ETA movement. that was 3 years ago and I still have it. Awesome watch!!!! Just Awesome. After that, Silent Service came out, I bought it too. I think SS is better than OR2 in so many ways. Anyway, now I have 3 micro brand watches, OR2, Silent Service and Helson sharkmaster 300. by the way, I must have bought and sold hundreds of micro brand watches in last 10 years. I am not kidding, ha ha ha

Its very nice as you review, however at the price point, a plethora of players comes to the fore. For a little more, a BB58 enters the chat....Ginault...Sinn and others. Thanks for your review.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Don't forget Oris, but I talk specifically about that near the end. As for Ginault, they are a tricky one as there is massive baggage attached to the brand. I should know I was one of the last to review the Ocean Rover before shit hit the fan a few years ago. Things got weird for a little bit.

I prefer the Triumph.

I bet it’s not as good as the ginault silent service

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

I can't say, never seen it. However, I do have the Ocean Rover I... the one with the "who knows what it really is" movement. Now with that, I think the Monta inches it out in terms of quality, but it would be hard to argue it's enough to be worth $1000 more because of that. Although overall, I do like the Monta a bit better, better lume, and a more comfortable bracelet with the female end links. Although the Ginault Clasp is a bit smoother.

@simonadkins9929

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime thanks for the reply . I was amazed at the ginault Silent Service, that price point of £1300 is producing stunning watches & im notsure Monta can compete quality wise with Ginsult & my latest edition the Pitzmann 3 which you need to see to believe, the Pitzmann has a seiko ne88 movement in it ! anywwy keep up the videos as I really enjoy them

Why can't we just call this an homage watch? If this was a Chinese brand (San Martin), they would be roasted.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

I would cal lit that, but it be more Upper Case H then lower. Like in the true spirt of an homage, not a full generic version. Although in the same way, wouldn't the entire BB line be considered an homage?

@KP-wp5sz

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime Shane, your point is well taken. Especially, related to the hypocrisy within the watch world. Tudor is a slight different animal though since it is directly related to its original source. But Monta is asking for a heavy Swiss premium tax without the additional steps to justify it as more than a lower case "H" homage, IMHO. A textured dial, fume paint scheme or an interesting colorway (gray, crimson red, hunter green etc.) would have added greatly to the appeal and served to differentiate this watch more.

@nikkolomakaveli8295

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTimeokay this is a spicy take but it’s true where do we draw the line with homage vs inspiration? It seems like a dirty word given to Chinese companies tbh and call it homage. Some of them are absolutely shameless but some are very unique takes.

@tuliosouza8973

2 ай бұрын

That is actually a difficult question to answer but I think a good rule of thumb is: if you take quick glance will you know what it is (or isn't) or do you have to look at the logo on the dial? A San Martin Sub clomage looks exactly like a sub: same hands, same layout, same markers, the magnified date window, etc. So they literally copied everything without putting any thought into it. (Although it must be said that SM does have original designs, which I appreciate) This Monta may be heavily inspired, but its evidently not a sub from the first glance

@KP-wp5sz

2 ай бұрын

@@tuliosouza8973 That is another strong point! But the price feels like a bridge to far for this type of "heavily inspired" design, as you say. I can go to Squale or Steinhart for an equally "heavily inspired" design for a fraction of this cost. This watch sort of feel stuck between two worlds! Excellent points though!

would rather get a ginault.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Ginault is a bit of a different beast. The quality is definitely there, but it still bugs me on how secretive they are. Although I could be overly sensitive to that, as I got caught up in all that craziness a few years ago. I was the last reviewer to cover the original Ocean Rover before that guy published his expose. Things got weird for a bit.

@maitrehg

Ай бұрын

Monta is a solid company. They're the same as Everest Bands, the company that makes high-end bands and accessories for Rolex and Tudor. Ginault is quite the opposite. No respect for this non-transparent company specializing in rip-offs.

There are only so many ways to build a watch to fit customers' expectations of a "diver". So give these designers a break, will ya? It's like with car types: the first to come up with a station wagon can claim bragging rights. All others will be "me too", even if they improve upon the concept.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

I've been wondering if when it comes to watches that are too "Rolex" for some people. If it's just because the watches are so iconic it gets ingrained in the brain. So at first glance, they see a color scheme that's similar and sometimes don't look any further. For instance, whenever I've covered a Pepsi version of a GMT, there is always someone saying it's lazy design work and ripping off Rolex. Regardless of how different the case and dial are.

@GreatBearWatchClub

2 ай бұрын

I've always thought this too. Also, this dismissiveness about everything being an homage presumes that everyone buying a black diver knows about Rolex. I had never seen a Rolex or any other luxury watch when I started buying watches, so I personally had no reference point for what my cheap-o watches were copying design-wise. I just knew they looked nice. The homage whining is boring at this point.

I don’t see it!!😮😳🤔

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

See what?

If you want a Rolex, then get a Rolex? And I think it's expensive bearing in mind it's a really minor brand, making a copy. And I love the Selita, but at this price point? And the forever question, "is that a Rolex?"

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Many watch ners see this and automaticly think Rolex... but I'm curious if the genral public would. In my experince most normal people don't care one bit what your wearing.

The Ginault Silent Service is better and cheaper.

@RelativeTime

Ай бұрын

Now I haven't seen the Silent Service myself, but I do have the Original Ocean Rover. The one with the "Who knows where it came from movement". Compared to that.. I think Monta is slightly better, and I think more comfortable with its bracelet. Although I think Ginault clasp is better. That said.. It is also twice as much.. and only a little bit better. So that's still a plus for Ginault.

You cant charge that kinda of coin with zero brand equity. How many people are honestly going to part with that kinda money for this? I couldn't imagine many. Id prefer to save and get something worth the money. This is where i think microbrands are losing the run of themselves lately prices are significantly increasing and i think they have forgotten their place in the market. They dont have the history, equity or marketing budget to compete with the big boys

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Well in some ways they do... At least a little. They've been around for at least 7 years now, maybe a little longer. And the entire time they have been producing watches in a higher price range for micro. So they do have a following so to speak and and are building some brand equity. But this is their highest price watch yet, so the question is it enough for what they're trying to do?

@keefw361

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime 7 years in watch terms is a new born baby. Nearly every micro brand produces watches above their price grade that's the whole purpose of a micro brand and the value proposition BUT know your market and price range. And my answer to your second question is no it's not worth Oris aquis money or near Tudor money

If I'm spending this kind of money I'd go for the Tudor in titanium

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

You mean a Pelagos? Which size would you go for?

@cheesychester9647

2 ай бұрын

Good luck getting a Pelagos for 2k.

@RabbitWatchShop

2 ай бұрын

@@cheesychester9647 that’s clearly not his point. He’d rather add $2k to the $2k Monta price and get a used Pelagos, or add $3k for a new Pelagos. Which is wise, because access to service centers is more abundant. Better specs overall.

Struggling to see why you’d buy this homage over a steinhart or a san Martin??? What am I missing??

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Well, same reason you would buy anything at this price. Design and quality. While you can call this an homage... its more truer to the sense of the word with some major tweeks to the design. Whereas most San Martins are going to be more like a generic version. Beyond that, the quality is far superior. Don't get me wrong, San Martin and Steinhart's are great. I've seen plenty. But they are nowhere near this. Now is Monta worth 10x the price of a San Martin... absolutely not. I mean no watch will ever be at this price. There never is a linear relationship with quality / price. Plus for me, beyond that $2k price point, the value arguments usually go out the window. At that point it's always more about want than any logical reason for getting anything.

@josephgriffin1065

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTimethis right here, value proposition, want over need or the other way around.

Just get a vaer instead 😂

Well, from most expensive microbrand watch to very, very affordable and genuinely attractive one, something that highly likely would appeal to you, knowing your taste: William Wood Watches, UK. What say you? ⌚ 🤔

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Aren't they the ones who use old fire equipment and incorperate it into the watch. Like parts of the straps are from old fire hoses? I know someone does that, it's a cool idea.

@Organic_ape

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime Their watches have a fireman's helmet for a logo - so it's very, very plausible.

@Organic_ape

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime Apparently: "William Wood Watches is an award winning British Independent Watchmaker producing unique watches made from upcycled firefighter materials in dedication to their Founder's late Grandfather, William Wood, a decorated British firefighter. Each watch has a melted-down 100 year old British brass firefighter's helmet inside the watch case and their luxury watch straps are made from upcycled fire hose used by fire services around the world. WHERE IT ALL BEGAN William Wood served in the Newcastle & Gateshead Fire Brigade for 25 years where he was stationed at Pilgrim Street Fire Station serving on The Blue Watch. On 29th June 1966 he and 3 fellow firefighters saved 5 small children from a severe house fire and they were awarded a Certificate of Merit for their bravery and courage. The company dedicates their watches to him, and firefighters internationally who protect our communities everyday."

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

@@Organic_ape very cool. I'll have to check them out sometime

@Organic_ape

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime Their Valiant Collection is exceptionally appealing to my eye, actually. Those watches somewhat emulate 60s rigs in terms of design and colour, and I win no prizes by saying that it's a deliberate design. ⌚🤔

Too “sub-like”. I don’t know how they managed even with rectangular marker to look like a Sub, but they did. The older OceanKing was a better design in my opinion. The quality is obviously very good, but I wonder how it would compare with a $500 San Martin ?

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Is there a San Martin that costs $500? Most of the ones I've seen are $200-$300. Honestly, I'd be curious to see what they could do at $500 too.

@d3xmeister

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime There was a while ago a premium diver from them, that was around $500 but I can't find it anymore. One of its perks was super finishing.

first

Very formex and it does appear sub-like but I mean really is it just because it’s a polished black diver with a ceramic bezel and oyster bracelet? What divers come without an oyster bracelet? Who doesn’t make a black diver? If a Seiko shipped with a bracelet that nice we would all melt. The hands and indices are its own, the date is at 6, it’s very clearly not a San Martin and if you carry hatred for homage styling then hate on the SM, they exist for people who want that watch but don’t have the money, this clearly is not quite that. You can only pack so many design cues within a 40mm circle. If the dial was just blue and not black I think we would all be having a very different conversation.

@RelativeTime

Ай бұрын

I think Rolex has a lot of iconic color combos, and some people can't help but see that when they look at another watch. They just see that on the surface and never look any deeper. Like with Pepsi GMTs, I've had people complain they are homages... when the case and dial look nothing like a GMT Master. They see Pepsi coloring, and that's enough for them.

Too expensive for what it is TBH

That’s a bit too much $$$$

Way too expensive for this movement. Just buy a Tudor if you have money to burn or an Addiesdive if you don't...

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Well like I said in the video, a Black Bay isn't exactly at the same price point. Oris is going to be more of an apples to apples comparison.

Owning a watch in the 1-3k range is a litmus test for having no sense of delayed gratification. If you just saved up for a little more you could get really great movements and history. And owning this watch in particular screams that you really just wanted a submariner, you might as well have just bought some Chinese homage.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

I'd disagree on a few points.. especially as an owner of Aquis. As for me with the caliber 400, there is a real logical reason to get that over some of entry-level luxury brands. Plus like I said in the video, there is also a practical value argument to be had. Just because you can buy something, doesn't mean you should. Is that really the best use of your money, or would you be better off getting something else and investing the rest? This is one of the reasons I've never really been interested in Rolex. That and most of the designs don't appeal to me.

Ginault wins

@dorningarts

2 ай бұрын

I have owned both, Monta is superior in finishing

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

I'm not sure. I've never seen the silent service, but I do have the original Ocean Rover. If money was no object, I'd easily take the Monta. But of course money is always an issue. Although of course Ginault also comes with a bit of brand baggage, something I know first hand as I was the last reviewer to cover the OR before the crap hit the fan a few years ago. But in some ways, I think that also makes it cooler.

@dorningarts

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime the thing that I can't stand about the Ginault is the absurd text on the dial, that is why I sold it

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

@@dorningarts The OR or a SS? I know with the OR is like a huge solid wall of text. Which is a pity as it blocks the beautiful inky black dial.

@dorningarts

2 ай бұрын

I had the Ocean Rover, but the SS has the exact same text on it,@@RelativeTime

Looks too much like a sub rip off to be interesting, no offense.

Is that a fake Rolex…yes, yes it is 😂

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

Would you say the same about a Black Bay? I mean yeah, Rolex owns Tudor which makes it more justifiable. But still, would the BB be considered an homage?

@dorningarts

2 ай бұрын

LOL

@amirghanbari9906

2 ай бұрын

Yes. ​@@RelativeTime

@A_Dude_And_His_Watch78

2 ай бұрын

How?

@RabbitWatchShop

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime awful logic.

The world is saturated with the same looking divers watches all claiming to be the best with the same old movements, it has become boring and repetitive.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

For better or worse, it's because it's what people buy. Why I mentioned Tudor in the video, but beyond that I've seen it time and time again here doing this channel. I show something different, and most people think it's too strange. Heck half the time I show something really different I automatically lose subscribers because of it.

Yawn, I sooo bored of subby-style watches!

Overpriced.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

What would you say is better at that price point?

Generic

because, in my opinion, snowflake hands are ugly.

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

It's funny how picky we can be when it comes to the hands. For some reason, I don't mind snowflake. Not my favorite, but don't hate them. Yet I can't stand Mercedes hands these days. Or whatever the hell you call that thing on a Ranger.

@AdAce21

2 ай бұрын

@@RelativeTime well, we buy a watch just as much for its aesthetics as its functionality. If you hate the way a watch looks, why buy it? The hands on a watch are one of its defining features, but function and aesthetic-wise. For me, the snowflake hour hands fails on both of those accounts.

Boring watch, 2.5k!? Nope. Prrowned black bay for around the same money. Some many more interesting choices for far less. I’m a dive watch collector not buying what they’re selling, for 1k maybe .

@RelativeTime

2 ай бұрын

So is it the design, or the brand that makes it boring to you?

@dorningarts

2 ай бұрын

I have tried on Tudors many times, nice fit, but the snowflake hands and aluminum insert, not for meI would take the Monta over it

@lonewolfemcquade8133

2 ай бұрын

​@@dorningartsI don't get the aluminum bezel hate. I've seen ceramic bezels just as scratched as aluminum. My Rolex Submariner 14060m has a aluminum bezel that looks incredible and it's over 20 years old.

@dorningarts

2 ай бұрын

@@lonewolfemcquade8133 Your joking right? I have had many ceramic divers for over 20 years, all look brand new, not a single mark, even if I slam into something. I have also had many aluminum bezels, all looked like crap in a few years. Not sure where you are getting your ceramic from??