Tuesday, 6 March 2018

Oris Divers Sixty-Five | Hands On Watch Review

Oris Divers Sixty-Five

Oris Divers Sixty-Five

I’ve been a fan of Oris Watches for a long time. I’ve owned quite a few over the years as well. The Oris Big Crown Timer, the TT1 Diver and my personal favorite, the Aquis. Within the past few years, Oris has been bringing back some of their vintage designs from the 60’s (as many brands have been doing lately). One of them is the Oris Divers Sixty-Five line. This one that I have in hand is my favorite of the lineup, the blue dial 42mm. This model comes in a few dial colors and there are leather strap versions, (as shown here), metal bracelet, tropic style rubber and a NATO strap. They have all the bases covered! This watch was sent to me from Timeless Luxury Watches, out of Frisco, Texas. They are an authorized dealer for Oris, Omega, IWC, Tudor, Seiko and many more. They also pre-owned watches. I will give the link to their site below, along with a special discount for those of you that may be interested in the Oris Divers Sixty-Five. 

Oris Divers Sixty-Five Specifications:

42mm Stainless Steel Case

11mm Thick

50mm Lug to Lug

21mm Lug Width

Oris 733, base SW 200-1 automatic winding, bi-directional rotating red rotor with a 38-hour power reserve

Box domed Sapphire Crystal

100 Meters Water Resistant

Leather Strap ( As reviewed)

Retail Price $1,990

*Timeless Luxury Watches and Watchreport have come together to offer a special 15% discount, good for one month from the date of this publication. That would bring this leather strap version, as well as the rubber and Nato strap models down to $1,691.50. If you want any versions of the Oris 42mm Sixty Five, you can inquire about ordering it through the Timless Luxury Website and mention Watchreport when they email you back, order over the phone and mention Watchreport or if you are in Texas, walk in and do the same. Again, the 15% off will be good for only one month from the date of this publication.*

https://timelessluxwatches.com/product/oris-divers-sixty-five-01-733-7720-4055-07-5-21-02/

Oris Divers Sixty-Five

For those not familiar, the Oris Divers Sixty-Five is a tribute to the Oris Star Dive watch from 1965. If you google those words, you will see that this version is pretty close in design to the original, even down to the funky date window. The size of course, has been bumped up, as the original was 37mm, and of course a sapphire crystal is now used, and a few other upgrades as well. This new version has an aluminum bezel insert and is rated at 100 Meters Water Resistant. The original was also a compressor case and because of modern technology, as with most dive watches, the new version has a standard screw down case back and crown.

Oris Divers Sixty-Five

The case design of the Oris Divers Sixty-Five is similar to its vintage counterpart, though the lugs are definitely longer and not as beveled, at least from what I can see from pictures on the web. Similar to many diver watches like this, the top of the case is brushed steel, with a high polished sides, crown and bezel teeth. The case back is highly polished as well. One aspect I really love is the large crown. Some dive watch enthusiasts may not like the fact that this watch is missing crown guards, but as I have said before, I do not actually dive. So crown guards are not really something I get worked up about. What I do like is how easy it is to use the crown while it is on the wrist. This is due to how large it is and the thin case, along with where the crown is situated. This is a detail many brands overlook, but it is something I find important. I can unscrew, set time or date, and even wind it if I wanted to, all while on my wrist, and with EASE. The 120 click bezel does have some play to it though, a little more than I would like on a watch of this price tag, but this is a sample, and it could be isolated to just my example.

Oris Divers Sixty-Five

The deep blue dial of the Oris Divers Sixty-Five is just flat out awesome. Not every brand gets blue dials right in my opinion, at least darker blue dials like this. This dial has a nice gloss to it and because of the box style sapphire crystal and how light hits it, will be a nice royal blue or almost a deep sea black. When looking at the original vintage version, one thing that is noticeable, is that while they kept the design of the date cutout very similar, it is smaller in size. The original took up the whole 3 o’clock spot, and there was no room left for any indices. Oris chose to make the date cutout on this modern version smaller, and put a small portion of the marker to the right of it. It is a little off looking, and I feel you notice it even more in the dark when the lume is glowing. As for the rest of the dial, no complaints here. The faux patina lume paint is subtle, and not as yellow or orange as some brands do and the hands and large markers make it easy to read at a glance.

Oris Divers Sixty-Five

Oris Divers Sixty-Five

On the wrist, the Oris Divers Sixty-Five is an absolute joy to wear. At 42X50mm, it is a perfect size for me and with the case being only 11mm thick, it is a nice change from the chunky dive watches most of us are used to. Even with the thick crystal, this watch does not look or wear thick at all. I have not seen the rivet bracelet in person, nor the tropic style rubber, so I can only comment on the leather strap that I was sent with the Sixty-Five. I have heard good things about the bracelet and rubber and I can say first hand that the leather is great. It is a distressed brown leather that has that vintage appeal and just works with this watch. I probably would never wear the bracelet on this watch, it would be rubber or leather, but that is just me. Topping off this minimal stitch strap is a signed thumbnail style buckle. For reference, my wrist is 7 1/2 inches.

Oris Divers Sixty-Five

Oris Divers Sixty-Five

For the most part, I have been singing the praises of the Sixty-Five, and unfortunately, that ends here. On the example I have in hand, the lume is not what I expected. It is nice and bright on the hour, minute and second hand, and the lume pip as well, but it seems the lume plots on the dial did not get the same treatment. I tried taking many lume shots of this watch, and charged it up with a high powered flashlight to try and get the best shot possible. That is the first picture below.

Oris Divers Sixty-Five

You can see that the hands almost look nuclear in that shot. That was hit with the flashlight for about 45 seconds. The photo below shows what it looks like after being out in the sunlight and coming inside. This is more what to expect in the lume department, at least in my experience with the Sixty-Five.

Oris has been using the Sellita movements for a long time now, and I have never had an issue with them. They are basically a clone of the ETA movements as most of you know. Oris labels it as their own caliber, but really they are just adding their custom red rotor to it, which unfortunately you can’t see here with this model. Now, I know that sounds odd coming from me, because I am always saying how much I prefer a solid case back on a dive watch. I usually do. But I have always loved the Oris red rotor-it has become iconic for the brand. It does not help that the case back of the Sixty-Five is kind of plain. Nothing wrong with it, I think I was just expecting more.

Oris Divers Sixty-Five

I like many aspects of the Oris Divers Sixty Five. The size is right where I want it, the blue dial is gorgeous, and the overall aesthetic is a watch that I am just attracted to. This is an every day wearer for me. Now, when it comes to lume, yes, it is a little disappointing to me. Lume, does not make or break a watch for me, and it is not like it is terrible, but if lume is a huge deal for you, I can understand. On paper, it may seem like the Sixty-Five is a little pricey. I wont lie, I thought the same. In person, it really is a beatiful watch and when taking a look at the forums, Instagram and Facebook groups, I can see many others agree. There is an “it” factor here. It may be more expensive  than it should be-yet somehow it is worth it. I put this into the win column. It is a great watch from Oris.

If you agree, please do check out the link and info in the specifications above and give Timeless Luxury Watches a chance. Remember, I never try and “Sell” you a watch here, but if you are in the market, they are a legit authorized dealer, no grey market here.

Please check out the gallery of photos below, and leave your comments as well.

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The post Oris Divers Sixty-Five | Hands On Watch Review appeared first on WatchReport.com.

Saturday, 3 March 2018

Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite | Hands On Watch Review

Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite

Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite

What do you get when you take an iconic case design from one brand and pair it with the most recognized dial design in the world? The Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite. The Seiko 62MAS was a popular vintage diver that has recently been re-released by Seiko and a few microbrands have been pumping out homages within the past year or so as well. The Nethuns version is similar to the re-release, with its 41mm case and somewhat long lugs, and a large crown minus crown guards. For some reason, instead of doing a straight up homage, Nethuns chose to go with a Rolex style dial, right down to the Mercedes hands. While there are other variations available, this one is also a meteorite dial, which seems to be popular among a few microbrands these days.

Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite

Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite Specifications:

  • 41mm Stainless Steel Case
  • 42mm Bezel with Ceramic Bezel Insert
  • 14mm Thick (16mm Thick with Crystal)
  • 51mm Lug to Lug
  • 22mm Lug Width
  • Box Sapphire Crystal
  • Seiko NH35 Automatic Movement
  • Waffle Rubber Strap
  • 500 Meters Water Resistant

Price $490 USD (Meteorite Dial) 

http://www.nethunswatch.com/collection/NETHUNSSCUBA500STEEL/SPS510METEORITESpecialEdition

Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite

Lets get right into it. The case design of the Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite is attractive, and it is a popular vintage style, or now, a popular re-release style. The long lugs and overall shape of the case make the watch wear larger than its 41mm width would suggest, so this is not exactly a small watch, if that is what some may be thinking. Below are some shots on my 7 1/2 inch wrist. As I noted in my last review of a Nethuns watch, they do a pretty damn good job when it comes to case machining and finishing. This one is no exception. The high polish is beautiful and the grind lines for the brushed sections are even, and I can find no rough edges around the case.

Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite

The dial of the Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite is obviously the selling point of this version, being as it is meteorite. As I stated in the video, I believe this to be the first time I have had a meteorite dial from a microbrand in my hands. I am not sure if it is my cup of tea or not, but it is interesting. Being meteorite, every dial should look different, some lighter, some darker, different striations and patterns. I said above, that the design is basically your Rolex Sub dial, which we have all seen many times before. This is one of the biggest contentions I have with the Scuba 500. I have covered many homages here at Watchreport, so no snobbery here. I just wish they stayed true to the Seiko it homages and used that type of dial markers and hands, or something else altogether. The Rolex dial looks good on a Rolex and Rolex homages. I just do not think it works here. Of course, that is purely subjective. You may love it.

Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite

As most would expect with a microbrand watch such as this, the Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite has sapphire crystal, this one a box dome crystal, which does give an interesting look to the watch, and gives that vintage feeling. A ceramic insert is used for the bezel, and that of course glows in the dark as does the rest of the dial and markers. The screw down crown has little to no play and the bezel itself is easy to grasp and ratchets as it should. The overall fit and finish is very well done here, and even though the case back is a little on the plain side, it has a laser etching done on a brushed surface. Underneath that case back is the the Seiko NH35 movement, which again, has become a go to movement for much of the sub $600 microbrand watches.

Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite

When it comes to the rubber strap of the Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite, there is just no other way to say it, I hate it. It is a Seiko style waffle strap and it is hard and yet weirdly gummy at the same time. It is somewhat difficult to put on and put through the dual keepers and it is just plain uncomfortable on the wrist. Of course, it is an easy fix, just put one of your favorite 22mm straps on it and you are good to go, but I wish the strap that came with it was more comfortable. I understand they were going for the original look here, but they already went and put a Rolex dial in a Seiko case, so you did not have to stay true to the original model when it came to the strap.

Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite

The lume is fantastic, as I expected. Most microbrands know that guys who buy in this segment expect crazy lume, lumed bezels etc. The Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite does not disappoint in that aspect at all. Strong C3 superluminova is used on the markers, hands and bezel. Not only does it glow very bright, but it is long lasting as well. Cheap luminescence was not used here.

Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite

As you can see, I am kind of torn with this one. I like the case itself, and I love the way it fits on my wrist. The lugs look like they are going to be straight and sit awkward on the wrist, but they don’t. They lugs have a nice curve that make the Nethuns Scuba 500 Meteorite comfortable to wear. On the other hand, I am not fond of the dial and hands that were used and of course that waffle strap is not up to par for me either. I think this one is just a miss for me. There are elements I really like and the watch is solidly built for sure, it just does not all come together in my opinion. It may for you though. As I have always said, my word is not gospel, and I can only present it from my perspective. If you have always wanted to check out a meteorite dial, this is an inexpensive way to do so, and maybe you love the dial and case together. Nethuns can build a solid watch; this time the overall aesthetics just missed the mark for me.

Check out the gallery below for even more photos, and if you haven’t yet, watch the video embedded above. As always, you can leave your comments below the gallery.

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Thursday, 1 March 2018

Gallio Tempo Brings Italian Flair and Luxury to Kickstarter with Trident Watch

Gallio Tempo Brings Italian Flair and Luxury to Kickstarter with Trident Watch

Gallio Tempo

Crowdfunding platforms have had a hugely positive effect on watchmaking, allowing boutique manufacturers to emerge with classy and bespoke timepieces. The latest eye-catching watch landing on Kickstarter over the next few weeks is Italian company Gallio Tempo with its excellent Trident Watch. Once again, Italy is emerging as a major player in watchmaking with brilliantly designed and crafted products, and Gallio is leading the charge.

Gallio Tempo Watches stands out with its penchant for passion, flair, and aesthetic appeal. These qualities were instilled in the company founder by his grandfather, a humble small town farmer called Gallio.

The Trident Watch is an instant attention grabber thanks to its winning design and quality-sourced materials. Launching on Kickstarter on 15th March, the Trident Watch is sure to win the hearts of timepiece enthusiasts who value attention to detail and a slick finished product. Hotly tipped to be a Kickstarter classic, the watch is certainly the kind of product that takes the crowdfunding platform by storm.

Boasting bold aesthetics, the Trident Watch is sure to appeal to customers with a keen eye for style and a sensibility for high-end quality. Gallio Tempo Watch is a group of exciting and youthful manufacturers with a passion for designs and for head-turning materials. Striking out with the Trident Watch, the company is debuting with an emotional visual call to classic timepieces.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLl8n0kobzU

Luxurious Italian Craftsmanship

Gallio Tempo is already setting a standard as one of the leading Italian watchmakers crafting handmade top quality produces. The Trident Watch captures the imagination through every element of its conception and design. It is made by hand thanks to skilled manufacturers, designed and assembled in the heart of Turin.

Gallio Tempo

However, the Trident is certainly not just a pretty face. It is also a flamboyant display of artisanal design and a bold statement in high-end materials. The 42mm case is forged from 316L stainless steel to deliver a sleek aesthetic coupled with a rough and tumble robustness. Uncompromising but visually striking, the Trident boasts three changeable rings (metal, green, and orange) so you can be classy or sporty when you want.

Other key specifications of the Trident Watch are a sapphire crystal glass casing, Citizen Miyota® (Japan) 821A Automatic Movement and Swiss Super-LumiNova® pigments for world-class afterglow performance.

For the strap, Gallio Tempo has collaborated with the noted and popular iWantAStrap brand to create a stunning band made from sailcloth. As the name suggests, the material is the same as ship sails, delivering a level of durability and performance rarely seen on a timepiece.

Launching on March 15th, the Trident Watch will be available from Kickstarter and from Gallio Tempo. Watch aficionados around the world will undoubtedly be won over by the potent blend of beautiful design and durability.

 

The post Gallio Tempo Brings Italian Flair and Luxury to Kickstarter with Trident Watch appeared first on WatchReport.com.