Cheap & cheerful Beaters

(Note the first model revised 25th April)
Just had a look around at the cheap & cheerful daily beaters. Models that cost virtual peanuts but manage do the job – to a lesser or greater degree. There are an amazing number of these around with some exceptional bargains to be had.

In no particular order here are four models that I particularly like.

Timex – well known reliable brand has this good looking model – the Timex Expedition T42571 – seen priced at around £35 – £45 today.
Powered with a Timex Quartz movement within a neat and quite small 38mm diameter x 10mm case of very light weight dark resin. The dial has a matte background, printed numerals with according to Timex, luminous hands. However in practice this is VERY poor.
Fortunately this model also has all dial *Indiglo (press the crown) which does allow night vision (although not my preferred choice). The glass is of acrylic and has 12/24 index marked on the dial. The crown is well protected by case shrouds.

Timex Expedition with my personal wrap strap

There is also a good size contrasting highlighted date window @3 which is very readable. Water Resistance is 5bar (50m), so fine for daily use.
It also has a 20mm nylon textured buckle strap (feels a bit plasticky for me) which is fine, though I’ve swapped it for one of the wrap straps I’m favouring at the moment just to see how it looks (shown in image 2).

And finally, a 12 month Warranty.

My verdict? (after wearing for a week)
It has a pleasing well balanced look and I like this particular case which is remarkably light. The dial is clear and easy to read. It also has a nice sized and clear Date. Clear outer perimeter minute chapter ring and overall, a good colour combination. However, I’d prefer much better luminosity, so would consider it as a cheap, neat watch – it is what it is.

And with the amazing low price – a good little travel watch.

This multi-function Casio AE1299WH-1A has been virtually the same for many years (since maybe 2012). Japanese Quartz powered (10 years battery life) with both digital and virtual analogue display. Black resin squared case just 39.5mm across and around 12mm depth, with 4 pushers. An Acrylic/mineral crystal protects the dial and the watch is multi-functional.

Classic, Retro? Value, World Timer, Gem? – the Casio AE1200WH-1AV

Time, including DST, Stopwatch, Countdown Timer, 48 city/31 time zone World Timer, 5 x Alarms with an integral LED “illuminator” dial light and with 100m (330ft) Water Resistance (so, swimming/snorkelling OK).

This is an amazingly well featured watch at any price, let alone the asking price of around £30 here in the UK. And with such a long production run history as a testament, this is difficult to beat as a Daily Beater.

What do I like about this one?
Great “at a glance” dial – shows the hour, minute, second, day, month and day. And – a sub analogue virtual dial with hour/minute & running seconds too. All functions are simple to set with the push buttons which are easily accessible (but not accidentally). The LED dial light is simple and effective.
I’ve had one since 2014 and it’s proved a winner. Cost me £17.00, so it’s gone up a bit since then, but still great value – (and I only changed the battery last month!).
It’s also unusual – a Digital display with virtual analogue (as opposed to an analogue dial + digital window). An obvious success for Casio, as it’s also been available for around 14 years – can’t say fairer than that.

So, if semi-digital is your thing – I can absolutely recommend it. And at this low price is a steal!

This is another Quartz but with a slight difference, as it’s powered by a Meca Quartz VH31 Automatic Seiko movement. This features a sweep seconds hand (similar look to a true mechanical automatic) which runs or sweeps at 4 “ticks” per second.

It is also very accurate at around +/- 15 seconds a month. The movement incorporates a number of plastic parts which reduces wear and gives added temperature resistance and has proved very reliable.

This is the Daily Beater Field Watch – from notostrapstore.com –

It features a 38mm diameter steel sandblasted case with a higher 100m Water Resistance v the Timex.
A large well knurled screw down crown, and a domed Sapphire non-scratch crystal with anti-reflection coating.

The dial has printed indices and numerals numerals on a dark background like the Timex above, though it does not have a Date display.
However, the broad analogue hands including the sweep second hand have C3 Super-LumiNova luminous coating, which is as good as it gets.
In looks, this model has a nice clear and simple Diver style and looks good.

What do I like about this one?

I like this solid basic “Beater” approach, with no frills or unwanted extras. It has good Water Resistance, a tough well finished case and an easy to read dial. AR Sapphire crystal is a bonus and I particularly like the large well knurled crown and matching NATO strap. The price is pretty good at around £75. Personally I would like a Date – useful at my age! But it is what it is.

This next model is from UK Chester based Cestrian Watches (launch partner & Authorised Dealer is WatchNation). The Cestrian Field series Automatic which is another good looking, well balanced model. This is also the first mechanical Automatic featured in this Post.

Cestrian Field model – Automatic with personal wrap strap

Powered by the Japanese Seiko NH35 Automatic movement, this is a really decent movement, 41hrs reserve, bi-directional rotor with manual wind if required and hacking allows precise time adjustment. Accuracy is solid at +/- 20-40 secs a day. A very reliable movement used worldwide.

At 40mm diameter, it wears small on the wrist though it is quite thick at a measured 12.8mm depth, it is also relatively heavy. This is a very solid matte finish sandblasted 316L stainless steel case is PVD coated Black.

This model comes with a green NATO ‘style’ strap. I say ‘style as this appears to have leather? keepers, whereas NATO spec’ straps are metal.
The dial is a matte dark khaki/green” with the excellent C3 Super-LumiNova coated nickel hour & minute hands. The centre seconds arrow hand has an orange tip and dot and the dial features a full 60 second track perimeter.

Cestrian 200m Automatic affordable beater

The inclusion of a scratch resistant Sapphire crystal with Anti-reflect coating, is a bonus, though oddly it sits slightly proud of the case.

The dial and case in this series comes with alternative finishes to suit your preferences.

Water Resistance is a very decent 200m coupled with a well knurled Screw Down crown. I note the screw down ‘screw’ is considerable and stiff which although unusual, works well.

Cestrian Field watch – C3 luminous – all night easy!

What do I like about this one?
This is a well specified model, without frills and is solidly practical. I like the dark khaki/green colour, which suits the black PVD coated case. The Screw Down crown and 200m WR, the Scratch resistant Sapphire crystal, C3 luminous properties and the low price, make for compelling affordability.
Personally I changed the strap for a “wrap” strap which does not go under the thick case – much better. Note – all images show with wrap strap.

Overall, an excellent watch with real quality features and at £120 – this is a very affordable alternative to mainstream Brands.

I was quite surprised to still see the Casio model, as I’ve had the same model for many years, so to include it here was a no brainer! The Cestrian Field model co-incidentally is a recent buy for me- and I am very pleased with it. However, I’d be equally pleased with either of the other two – as they are surprisingly good value in these trying times and nice to see.

Just a note on my strap change –
NATO style straps are fine if the watchcase is not too thick, as the strap is fed under the case twice, which in turn makes the watch overly thick on the wrist.
Most NATO spec’ straps are thin for that reason. They also use strong metal keepers. I changed to a velcro* wrap-strap, a personal preference.

Straps, Bracelets and deployments.

Of the many hundreds of watches I have owned over the years, one thing I have always taken note of is the strap, bracelet, band or wrap. Because surprisingly often, the one supplied, might not suit you once you start wearing it.

And there are so many different devices to strap to your wrist. The most common is probably a classic leather strap with a pin buckle. It should adjust to your wrist size and fits to the watch via the spring bars on the watch lugs. Other materials can be used such as metal mesh, nylon, rubber, textile and so on.

One of the better OEM bracelets – adjustable & extendable (Breitling Aerospace 1999)

Bracelets or bands are also popular, though some are good and some oddly not made to the same standard as the watch.
The most common version is the fold-over clasp type, with a metal link bracelet (made up of metal links) attached at the watch via the spring bars and some may have an intermediate curved plate, between watch case and spring bar – to match the curve of a round watch for example – and makes it more integrated. These bracelets are usually adjustable for wrist size by removable pins on the bracelet and often a small adjustment on the clasp too.

But if a metal bracelet is not to your liking and you like the bracelet deployment idea, then you could use fit a third party “deployment” fitting.

Leather strap with added deployment fixture (1)

This attaches to a standard leather strap. And here again, some are good, holding the watch close to the wrist and some the opposite, so check before purchase.

To fit a stand-a-lone deployment clasp you don’t even have to remove the leather strap from the watch – first – remove the buckle and pin from the strap. Then using the existing small spring bar that held the pin/buckle on, fit one end of the deployment attachment to it (note the deployment attachment must fit the width of the strap).

Third party deployment added to leather strap – note fixing points.

Fixing point of deployment clamp using strap holes on tail end of leather strap.

Then fit the other end of the deployment to the tail of the strap, normally it’s a movable clamp with hinged pin, which you ‘clamp’ to the strap and adjust the wrist size length by moving it to a suitable strap hole . Actually very simple and saves the strap from premature wear. Just ensure the deployment type suits you.

I have always been an advocate of having a watch strap or bracelet that’s comfortable. One that holds the watch to my 65mm wrist neatly, so much so that in the past more often, I’d swap out the standard leather or rubber strap for a silicon rubber fold-over one. These have a fold over/lock and the advantage of holding the watch close to the wrist, unlike many leather strap deployments. Whilst they are excellent, the ones I tend to use have a slight disadvantage in that these have to be cut to fit, so are bespoke to your particular wrist size. And if you like to use your watch off the wrist as an alarm on the bedside table, they are tricky to sit upright.

Casio with silicon fold-over strap – close fit.

Neat silicon fold-over strap – holds close to the wrist.

However, I did find that with most rubber straps, mine included , over time can become brittle. And the initial flexibility is not quite as it was.

And storage wise you can’t keep your watch flat – it has to be on a cushion or display pillow, curled around it – and there are watch boxes for that purpose. And if thinking of the roll method for your leather strapped watches – then be prepared for a permanently curved strap – so not really the best for leather..

So, basically as some of my older silicon banded watches (the early black ones as it happens) were looking their age and not as flexible (like me) I wondered what was around that might update the look of them and maybe add some colour. But, they had to look right or why bother I thought.

Old Uzi Defender – old ring wrap-strap – (1)

I began looking at a watch I’d had for years – this old Uzi Defender watch (amazingly good watch too) which had a nylon “wrap strap” (did I fit it years ago? no idea) or that’s what I called it. Like another old Timex I have, it sported a metal loop ring topside with wrap around Velcro closure.
And rather like NATO straps, the strap feeds under the spring bars and under the watch. Though depending on the watch back or how thick the case is could have a similar effect as a leather strap/deployment – it can make watch stand out a bit too far from the inside of the wrist – so you have to check if it’s the right type.

Anyway, when trawling the web the other day, I found a whole series of different textile/nylon etc wrap straps, which didn’t feed under the case, but were true wraps.

Called Sport Loops (whatever !) and the one that caught my eye was the Runostrich Quick Release or Sports Loop band. (I’m pretty sure I used to play in one!)

Anyway, as I said, a little bit more modern, very easy to fit and very comfortable, as you simply attach as a normal strap, then overlap and touch close (Velcro) to suit tightness and wrist size. No moving parts, no metal ring and the band (sorry – Loop!) doesn’t go under the watch.

Updated wrap-strap for Uzi Defender vintage – looks OK – neater fit.

It is nicely textured and soft to the touch Nylon, so likely waterproof. It’s flexible and no adjusting required. And these particular Bands fit wrists from 160mm-210mm (6.3″-8.3″) so quite a decent wrist range. And they are available in various widths of 18/19/20/22mm and maybe smaller.
Each band comes with 2 x quick release spring bars (plus a spare) and is available in a range of colours and textures. And you can fiddle it about a bit and it will sit upright on a bedside table at the angle you want, so very handy if you take your watch off at night – a quick glance and you read the time.

And I do particularly like their multicolour straps – though they only have a few. Maybe because in today’s world they can reflect a bit of rebel fashion, match the watch face or your mood, whatever. In other words, change the band, change the look. As shown on the Seiko 5 Sports Limited Edition below – though the Seiko has an excellent fold-over steel bracelet – this “wrap” is just for a change.

And as said, as many of my older silicon deployment straps are/were black, with this change I can have what I like to call my “Woodstock” look.

Perfect colour match wrap-strap, Easy fit, easy wear.

And OK, this is a tenuous link to memory and maybe as folks my age seem to end up a bit drab and colourless, like the straps – or is it me?.

Anyway- for whatever reason, it takes me back to 1969, to what was in my opinion, more colourful days. This particular ‘mem’ was in Bethel was it? Catskills? near New York somewhere – and that was in August 15th – I mean how far back is that – ancient yes?

Anyway, there was I – a youngish long haired guy in flared jeans, a harmonica laden belt (12 Hohner blues harps & 2 bass jobs) around my 28″ waist, bare chested with strings, leather thongs, neck and wrists festooned with coloured ribbons, leathers, including back then an early Timex.

I still remember some ‘dude’ (see, I even remember the lingo!) shouting at me, “Time me, Man!” as he didn’t have a watch and I shouted back whatever the time was. Then some years later did it all over again it at the Isle of Wight, England – yikes! – but that’s another story!

And here I am again well over 50+ years later with these same colours on my wrist (it’s the colours, man) – I just love it! Unfortunately the 28″ waist is long gone, as is the long hair and wispy beard and you won’t hear me playing “Train Blues” on the harp anymore, but well – what was . . . . . another life really!

Anyway, I’ve gone off topic (comes with age) – the included images are just a few of the watches I’ve re-strapped (looped) and I have a feeling there might be a few more before the week is out.

Note – I hasten to add that this particular wrap-strap style can look good on many watch models, but there are other considerations of course. I wouldn’t want it if I was actually diving – I’d likely stick to the original one that came with the watch. But just for a change of look, it’s basically a bit of fun and at little cost. It can brighten up your Day. And if you’re into “smart” stuff, I have seen them on the odd Apple watch (whatever that is?) and it looks good too).

Anyway, just a thought and I’ve fitted a few different watches to see how they look – OK for some and not for others, but they can surprise you. Fun too.

Old Timex upgrade to a new ‘wrap strap’ – much easier on the wrist.

Wrap-strap with quick release spring bar – to case. No tools required.

Wrap-strap on a Seiko “Monster” – maybe, maybe not? the jury’s out, but I love the colour!

A look back at an old ‘gem’

Seeing I trawled back in time on my last Post with a favourite Timex – this time I’m looking back at a favourite Casio.

This is the understated and very affordable Casio AQ-190W, which I first reported on back in 2015. I remember at that time I compared it against Casio’s more expensive models and was very surprised at how good it was. It also has the dial look of the great Citizen Skyhawk, Nighthawk and Navitimer series, which I’ve always rated as an absolute classic in digital/analogue dials

This Casio is at a lower price point alternative, but has many of the same features including a 1/1000 of a second Chronometer and is ultra affordable. It is a resin cased example with a metalized clad top plate, but it is an exceptionally clear dial configuration and again being light weight is easy to wear.

In fact it fits right in to the uncanny Casio knack of making watches packed with features that manage to suit all prices. And if you’re not a great fan of their “G” shock stuff, this particular hybrid plastic/resin & stainless/metal look model could be for you. One thing is definite, they sport some great electronics, are easy to use, tough as any and make ideal “do everything” daily beaters.

Affordable value Casio World Time Chronograph – the AQ-190W *(image 2015)*

I also have a slightly more expensive “hybrid” model already, the Casio Tough Solar WVA-470, but I actually prefer this AQ -190 model for all sorts of reasons and not just the price. I also like the fact, it doesn’t have the over muscular lumpiness and often less than easy to use pushbuttons of a “G” shock. The AQ-190 model is very easy to use with sleek pushers, intuitive functionality and decent dial clarity. As I said this is all at a very affordable under £40 price tag – and function for function is great value.

It has the Citizen ana/digi dial familiarity, though slightly less busy with similar digital displays, and it functions virtually in the same manner. The contrasting background layers, clear digits, contrast and clever use of tones makes this very clear, considering the functions shown, though the sub dial is perhaps a little reflective – a matt finish may have been better – but perhaps I’m being over critical.

With it’s excellent full World Time feature you might be excused today for thinking it was Radio-Controlled, but it’s not and nor is it Solar, so you have to remember it’s simply quartz powered. But the functions and features on this are useful and reliable and to include a true 1/1000 sec digital chronograph is exceptional.

I love the Casio and Citizen knack of “at a glance” dial that manages to show a lot of information, clearly – Day, Month, Date, analogue time, running digital seconds.

It’s also unusual to have 2 x light sources on this watch.
Firstly – It has a very bright orange/yellow dial light (not Indiglo) at 3 o’clock which reflects right across the dial, lighting analogue hands and digital windows, which is a surprise. Certainly bright enough to read the time in the dark and maybe find your way to the bathroom at night! and much better than expected, especially compared to some other dial light models.
Secondly – The analogue hands and markers are also properly luminous and pretty good in their own right.

The World Time feature is about as good as it gets. It is really easy to adjust, without continual reference to instructions, so is a practical travel watch.
It’s simple to set the time or to select another Time Zone or indeed change from your current time to your destination time. As the digital and analogue times are linked, you first select World Time and set the destination Zone you want, then “Swap” the digital time you’ve just set on to the hands – simply by pressing buttons A and B at the same time (that is the two upper buttons) and the hands immediately move quickly round to the new digital setting. Your previous analogue time will now show on the digital screen. On your return journey again select World Time, press both buttons A & B simultaneously again and job done – the times will revert once again.
Very clever and more importantly, simple to use in practice.

However, whilst just about everything on the watch is pretty damned good – inexplicably the quality of the band (bracelet) on mine, was let down by sharp edges, which cut into the wrist and this is a real shame. But easy to correct fortunately and I did just that.

And if considering a strap change, then my experience may be useful. The watch standard spring-bar fitting is just 18 mm, but the width of the bracelet at the case is around 24 mm. But an 18 mm strap is no good as it will look far too small in proportion to the watch. I managed to get round that by getting a 24mm silicon deployment strap and carefully cutting two small cut-outs with a sharp knife, at each side of the strap to accommodate the smaller lugs. It wasn’t difficult to do and it looks absolutely fine. I have used it ever since (see image).

However, bracelet apart, in terms of price, functions, features, intuitive ease of use, size, weight and style, this is a very, very good buy and it even manages a 100m Water Resistance as well – So it’s really has a lot going for it. Note – movement is made in Japan, but cased in China for whatever reason! But with this result – who cares!

24 mm wide alternative Silicon deployment strap - fitted to 18 mm spring-bars. — 24 mm wide alternative Silicon deployment strap – fitted to 18 mm spring-bars.

As regards Analogue/Digital models in general and especially resin case light weight models, were and are actually a great idea.

Low cost, huge functionality and I’m checking out this month to see if these are still in existence – because they should be.

However, I’m not going to include the plethora of really ‘cheap’ Asian models that appear in their droves on a few of the web sites – they are indeed cheap but rarely value for money. Often functions don’t last, luminous is laughable, clarity is often cluttered – the list goes on – so I’m not about to waste my time.

And when looking at what I call hybrid or composite models made from plastic resin and so on, where Casio’s quality is near unsurpassed, many other ‘Brands’ are a different matter. You do have to really carefully check build quality. And even on this excellent Casio one aspect was poor – the steel bracelet – but easily sorted, but care should be taken.

So, often the really great and super value Casio models can be sometimes hidden under the radar and you may have to actively seek them out. The AQ featured was such a one.

Checking what’s similar today I found this model which only has a passing similarity- the AE-1000W-1A2VEF which says it is World Time, though also says it can show 4 time zones (are there others?) so a bit confusing at first look.

The display set up is very much Casio. And on this model, often not realised, is the fact the dial indicates both a digital time and a small moving virtual analogue hands sub-dial clock. And that means hours, minutes AND seconds (they used this module set up on a few of their models).

Brilliant Casio World Timer Alarm Watch AE-1200WH-1AVEF

Incidentally, I have the square AE1200WH resin only cased model, which is probably my all time favourite Casio. On it’s virtual dial it also shows hours, minutes and seconds – so a small complete clock face, which is really quite useful. I did a Post on it a few years ago – the link is in the above the watch name.

I attach a small thumbnail image here just as a reminder as to how neat it was. And it is as good today as it was when I bought all those years ago and it’s 10 year battery (at least) is pretty good! Another of my favourite travel models.

Detomaso Diallo Blu “chrono”

Every so often I have a look at what’s on offer around the watch world. And this time I was having a look at affordable chronographs, preferably mechanical, but came across the rather outstanding looking Quartz powered Detomaso Sorpasso. I was quite intrigued in particular by the Diallo Blu model, at first on it’s looks alone and was curious to see if this particular dial colour combination of yellow and white? actually worked out. And of course how did it’s chrono function stack up.

It was an inexpensive watch at just about £130 here in the UK – so did it’s performance match it’s looks?

No doubt it is a striking looking bright yellow dial with recessed sub-dials and a triple Date window scroll window @6. All contained in a rather stylish 316L ‘blued’ 316L stainless steel case. It measures 42mm diameter and 12mm depth and has the triple date indication window – very handy if the date is hidden by one of the hands – as you can see yesterday’s and tomorrow’s date either side – This date also has very good contrast and easy to read.

According to Brand data this model features luminous hands and markers, but don’t be fooled by the marketing picture (below) showing amazing luminous hands – probably taken right after a bright light was shone on the dial – however that said, in practice I could just manage to read the time all night when I tried it out, though definitely NOT as bright as shown. But, yes this watch does have readable luminous hands & markers. So, that’s a plus.

As to the amazing colour of the dial – the hour and minute hands can be seen OK as the hands are outlined in a silver edge with luminous infill paint and the edges appear black most, but not all of the time in normal light. The dark coloured chrono centre seconds centre sweep hand has good contrast, though not so the white tip against yellow in practice. I would prefer it to be all dark for clarity, after all it’s the tip that shows against the index that you have to read.

The recessed sub dials also have part black and white tipped pointers and again white is not effective and the fact the 60 minute sub-dial @9. Also as this dial has no detailed index, it is not so easy to see what it indicates exactly – in other words – for example the chrono has run for just over after 2 minutes, it’s difficult to confirm exactly as the small pointer indicates ‘somewhere’ between 0 and 5. An index is essential in my opinion.
The chrono is started by a very firm push on the top right pusher, stopped by the same pusher and reset by the lower pusher. On reset the centre sweep hand runs back clockwise to Zero and the sub-dial minute pointer jumps to Zero.

Highly misleading image luminous quality

This is a feature of the Miyota 6S21 quartz movement which appears to have some of the functions of the so-called meca-quartz. The chrono operation has a mechanical feel when operating the pushers, though for me these are too stiff and NOT smooth in operation (sometimes you press it and it doesn’t – so you have to do it again!).
The chronograph features 4 beats/sec on the centre seconds hand, so measures to 1/4 second (but with no index to really pinpoint that position) it’s simply not good enough for chronograph timing – perhaps OK for a rough time record for a parking meter? However, I have seen this movement on other watches which have proper detail on the indexes, which is more sensible.

So for me whilst the chronograph movement is OK, the lack of a detailed printed index on the sub-dial is not.

Whilst I like the look of the watch (the reason I bought it), as a chrono it is quite basic.

Conclusion –
The looks of this model promises so much more than it delivers. Yes, it looks great and it looks and wears nice on the wrist – a talking point almost.

It has a nicely finished case and as a basic good looking watch, it works. It has a domed scratch resistant sapphire hardened glass, 5bar Water Resistance and a 2 year guarantee. Accuracy is listed as +/- 20 seconds/month (this movement often betters this rating) and I believe a SR927W or 395/9 battery with approximately 3 years life.

But for a chronograph maybe expected something better. The lack of chrono sub-dial details are annoying and the stiff pushers I hope will ease. And those white tips to the seconds hand and sub dial hands, really don’t help with clarity – white against yellow just doesn’t work.

However, despite the Brand apparently having won a few German watch awards – in regards this particular model? – I’m not convinced.

Just noted in these images here, I ‘d been trying out various straps at the time of taking images for this Post! And the strap shown is not as supplied.
The original strap is actually an excellent recycled plastic Ocean model with matching neon blue buckle and I apologise for not showing it, as it turned to be better than expected!
So, the soft silicon one shown here was temporarily (but with their buckle) used in place, just to see how it looked and my fault (I’m a bit of a “nut” about straps and bracelets and tend to try out various ones with any new watch).

In fact Detomaso have a range of very good 22mm wide straps, quite pricey, yes, but very good indeed and I’ve already bought some.

Timex update – from Get and Forget (2) 2014

This is an excerpt from a 2014 Post (Get and Forget (2) ) where I flagged 2 x Timex watches I considered at that time – and my views have not changed. But with this update I re-look specifically at the T49967 Expedition Alarm Chronograph, basically as it came up for a battery change recently.

(1) Timex T49967 Expedition Alarm Chronograph *(image 2014)*

I also realised just what a good watch this was, so I’ve revamped the Post accordingly in the light of experience.

Originally I liked this model because of it’s Analog-Digital design which still retains a classic analogue look. The case diameter is 43.8mm across, but including the crown and crown protection it’s almost 47mm, so not a small watch by any means, but conversely it doesn’t seem big on the wrist. It’s 13.6mm (depth) but maybe as it’s light weight, it wears smaller than it is, albeit with a definite Timex Expedition look to it.
The dial is deceptively good, matte background and well laid out in black with contrasting broad white luminous half filled analogue Hour and minute hands plus a yellow centre seconds Hand. Overall it has a really neat functional look. I checked the luminous quality last night and it’s OK (not massively bright, but certainly usable) and I could make out the time.

Interestingly this model also has the Timex Indiglo dial illuminator, a system that personally I’ve never taken to. So often the principle of silhouetting the hands against the lit background rarely works unless the hands are solid black. So, the bonus fact this model also has luminous hands is a real plus for me.
The wide fixed bezel is clearly marked in tens and does not rotate, as it’s not a diver’s watch, though it has a 200m Water resistance. It is however, a pretty tough everyday workhorse that’s easy to live with.

Functions include Day, Date, Month, Alarm, Timer, Stopwatch and includes a Digital time display well positioned @6 and larger than most. Additional function buttons are on the wide bezel @6 including chronograph control such as Stop and Split laps etc. The bezel is influenced by the “shock” range and gives good overall protection to the watch and the recessed glass.

It is also a perpetual Calendar model, so once the Calendar is set, forget about short months and so on, it’s all taken care of.

Four pushers on the case are broad and ribbed and are very easy to use. The crown is @3 as usual and extremely well shrouded.

T49967 Silicon/rubber strap with buckle. — (2) Silicon/rubber strap with buckle *(2014)*

The original strap is a substantial affair in green coloured rubber, fitted to standard case/lug/strap bars. I noted when I first got the watch (10 years ago) the rather thick and slightly stiff rubber felt really quite good and was comfortable. However today I find it just too stiff for my small wrists and tightening it to the correct position is actually quite hard to manage. So, I have swapped it for a ‘wrap strap’ which fits better, is instantly and infinitely adjustable (no holes or buckle) and is very much more comfortable and suited to me now. (see image 4).

This model is a rather understated gem in my opinion, as it’s one of those models that manages to get the basics right and the overall “form” is pleasing. The function are unobtrusive, it fits well to the wrist and does everything rather well.

In fact, I was so taken with it (again) that it’s going to be on my wrist for the next month. Changing the battery was easy (CR2016) and as simple as removing the 4 x screw back, unscrew a small battery keeper tag, swapping the battery and doing it up again in reverse. Took about 5 minutes.

(3) T49967 – *image 24th February 2025* after 10 years use.

(4) Strap change to a wrap strap ‘velcro’ close – no buckle and more comfortable for me.

A point to note –

In the digital display by default it shows the time (as the analogue hands), but if you want to show the Day, Date and Month (the calendar) you push the ST button on the lower bezel and the Calendar will flash up for a second. To permanently show the Calendar display rather than the Time display, push and hold the ST button for at least 3 or 4 seconds. This will show the date, day and month then set – then release the button and the Calendar will stay indicated as the default view. So at a glance you now have the analogue hour, minute and seconds hands on the main dial and the digital display will be showing the Calendar. (and you can reverse the sequence as you wish). For other functions you simply push the Mode button and the display (4) cycles through each one as required.

Also when setting the digital display the Calendar can be selected to show either US or UK style (Day, Date and Month) – something I really wish others would emulate.

What would I like to change on this model? – Well, even though not a diver’s watch, the fact they’ve taken the time to have a really well figured bezel and as the watch is rated at a 200m water resistance – it would be nice if the bezel moved.

But having said that – it is still a very tough ‘Get it, Set it & Forget it’ every day practical watch – it’s also unlike most Timex models today and I am very glad to have it.

Note – images – the varying shades of my photographs, depend on the light at the time. The most accurate in this Post are images (1) and (4).

My Junkers 10 years on . . .

A 2025 reprise of my Classic Junkers 6060M-5 Bauhaus.

Time, Date, Power Reserve and 24 hr sub-dial from Junkers.

Bauhaus bridging the gap between art and industry by combining crafts and fine arts, this model absolutely fits the bill for me. The Bauhaus movement began in Germany in 1919 and was a style template for great things in all walks of life and a fusion of the practical and the aesthetic.

Here the concept is displayed in a rather stylish model and it has always attracted me and as I already love the Art Deco look, this suits my idea of what I want to wear. With a Stainless Steel 40 mm diameter case and around 11/12 mm height with a cream coloured elegant dial, under a proprietary domed Hesalite crystal, this looks rather good.

The proportions of this model entirely suits it’s Classic look and it looks great on the wrist. And this is not the first model I’ve had with Hesalite crystal which is actually quite good, glare free and extremely shatterproof, though conversely soft enough to scratch. The upside is that any scratches you do pick up can easily be polished out (if not too deep).

This Junkers Bauhaus version comes with a modified Citizen 9132, 26 Jewel Automatic movement,

Citizen 9132 Automatic with +40 hours reserve

beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour with Date aperture @3 and a decent Power Reserve of over 40 hours. An ultra smooth running centre sweep Seconds hand in black and a 24 hr sub-dial featured @6 with a Date aperture @3, plus a Power Reserve indicator @12. The Date is adjusted by the centre crown and features hacking (the watch stops whilst the crown is out to the second position) so accurate time setting is easy. Dot markers at 3, 6 and 9, are green luminescent, as is the infill area on the small Logo @12. The fine gold coloured stick Hour and Minute hands are also luminous filled. Overall the dial is as Classic as you can get. The modified Citizen movement is a good choice in my opinion and in my experience can be remarkably accurate. Some reports indicate the rotor can be noisy, but this particular movement is no better or worse than my other automatics. This model features an exhibition back through which you can see the silver textured rotor movement and gives that little bit of added interest.

Chunky look accentuated by the Hesalite crystal.

The watch appears to have a close resemblance to the Max Bill series that I also like in that it shares the elegant yet simple dial layout which is uncluttered and practical. The 20 mm strap is slightly thinner than my previous Junkers and is of amazingly good quality, being of a high quality soft leather. Regarding the holes available and my smallish 165 mm wrist, it’s a neat fit on my smallish 165mm diameter wrist.

Wearing the watch –
Super comfortable with this strap and case dimensions (at 40 mm diameter the ideal dimension for this style of watch). The watch being rather chunky can look a little larger than it really is once on the wrist. Due mostly to the height of the case and also owing to the quite thick and rounded Hesalite crystal, easily 2 mm above the case (my wife thought it rather like the icing on top of a cake). Personally I love the Classic Bauhaus look of the watch and pleased it does not have the rather large Shield Logo as some, instead having just the name @9.

Luminosity –
With green luminous paint applied just to the Logo @12 and the dot markers @3, 6 and 9 plus the infill on the very slim hands you would be forgiven thinking the watch was not so good at night. And you could not be more wrong. It was, in fact excellent and I found I could still read the time in darkness some 5 hours later and this was managed without artifice. Watch sitting under my bedside light table while I got ready for bed – perhaps 10 minutes? In other words in a very normal situation. I was very impressed.

Automatic in use –
As an automatic mechanical model the Citizen 9132 is very efficient and takes very little wrist movement to wind it. Basically as soon as you put it on – it starts and unlike some movements, does not require any winding to set it off. I’ve found that once it’s on the wrist the power reserve very quickly indicates it’s fully wound.

Just to go back to the quietness of this movement –
I’m pleased to say that I don’t hear it at all on the wrist and only when pressed against my ear and I also don’t feel the rotor moving in normal wear. The movement itself via the exhibition back actually looks quite refined and not as utilitarian as some.

So any down sides?
None whatsoever – it is a Classic watch, perfectly proportioned and after a few years on my wrist the entire ensemble feels smooth and part of me.

Accuracy report –
As I guessed with the Miyota 9132 movement, it lives and has lived (over the last 10 or 12 years) up to expectations for an alternative to the Swiss ETA 2824 calibres.

In fact the Miyota 9100 series was introduced as a successful and affordable alternative a while ago and as the Swiss maker ETA policy was to cease supplying movements/parts to all and sundry, somebody had to fill the vacuum. As for time keeping this Junkers Miyota movement manages between 3 and 5 seconds (fast) per day and that’s straight out of the box (today some 10 years later it’s settled down to better than 3 secs). Unsure whether Pointec (Junkers Agency) have time adjusted it at all, but I’d say it’s easily as good practically as the old ETA 2824 and certainly in this limited complication.

Can’t help but think ETA made a bit of a misjudgement (even suicidal) with this Policy, as it was inevitable that the Asian/Japanese brands would step up to the plate and produce not only a movement to rival ETA, but at a fraction of the cost. In my view the customer benefits tremendously, certainly on new models. My sympathies go out to pre-owned collectors and existing owners regarding the cost of repair and replacement parts for original ETA movements.

Quote –
Competition is always a good thing. It forces us to do our best. A monopoly renders people complacent and satisfied with mediocrity.

Quote – Nancy Pearcey

And I have to agree 🙂

And this is it today Feb 20th 2025 –

Junkers Classic Auto Bauhaus – *Image taken 20th February 2025 at the time shown*.

As good today as when bought and still one of my favourite watches. A lot cheaper when I bought this one back then and although the model has hardly changed, it will cost a bit more today – around £840 in the UK.

And after 10 or 12 years ownership I reckon even at todays price, it is a bargain and very much worth the money. And note what I said about the auto movement. The power reserve is showing maximum so even at my age I’m moving well enough to have the watch run at peak performance.

When I bought this I thought it might be a little big on my smallish 165mm wrist – but this picture taken today rather disputes that idea. Looks pretty good to me.

And if it’s showing that, it means that I’m not doing too badly either! 😉

Tissot Two and Seiko

After Posting my 1986 (38 years old) dual display 7 jewel quartz Tissot Two Timer (D377) I Post here another one I have. And this is also an original first edition model, before the advent of the altered case lugs and bespoke strap configuration and four screw back plate, but with a similar but different dial layout.

As said in my first Post on the Tissot Two Timer – this model was introduced as a higher quality Swiss alternative to the often variable quality analogue/digital watches coming from Asia.

And as Seiko were one of the major producers of this concept (plus Citizen, Casio and a few lesser brands) I thought I’d manage a quick and brief comparison between my Swiss Tissot and my Seiko H249-5130 model of the same era. Both have very similar functions and date of manufacture just 5 years apart. The Seiko 1981 and the Tissot 1986.

Both models are pleasing to the eye and both have an analogue handed dial plus a single line digital display.

The Tissot Two Timer is a high quality cased model in fine, smooth stainless steel. Sleek dimensions at just 8.5mm depth with a curved top plate and Sapphire crystal and a case width of 27mm and lug to lug of 37mm, with a high quality 22mm wide Tissot leather & stainless buckle strap. As a neat dress watch it is pretty much perfect. (note the plain strap means it’s easily swapped, unlike its later version). The case quality of this particular watch is as new, no scratches, perfect. There are also no buttons or pushers on this model, as it employs a good sized stainless steel crown for all adjustments.

The Seiko case is of an ‘SGP’ or Seiko Gold Plate base metal, un-curved with a flat crystal. It is very thin at just 6.7mm, around 27mm case width and lug to lug of 37mm. On this model the ‘thin’ Gold plating is just holding on with just noticeable (close up) wear showing, but is still pretty good for it’s age of 44 years. The case back is stainless steel. The SGP case finish, whilst it can look good when new, does tend to wear and flake over time. And this one is showing it’s age now (Gilt has a max lifespan of 30 years?) but can’t compare to an un-plated stainless steel case of the Tissot.

Tissot & Seiko compared – note digit separation

The Two Timer features a battery hatch (eventually introduced to Swatch) and is as good now as it was when new. A bonus too that its rubber seal is intact, so it should still be Water Resistant to 3ATM or 30m (slightly better than splash proof, but not full immersion). Certainly good enough for a dress watch. (however, if you buy any pre-owned watch with a battery hatch – check it has the seal before getting it wet!). And note this stainless steel case back does not open.

The Seiko has a stainless steel back, but is a ‘snap’ fit – so I wouldn’t class it as Water Resistant, but will probably manage the odd splash – maybe.

The Tissot employs the single crown system, controlling time settings and all functions both digital and analogue. It is also very smooth and precise. This Tissot single crown system is about as good as it gets and whilst there are no push buttons, the crown does have a push function.

The Seiko has a rather small centre crown on the right and 2 push buttons on the left of the case. They are also in gold tone and both pushers have a slight issue of weakened springs, which was and always has been an issue with early ‘pushers’, though so far both work, albeit a little slowly and sometimes require a few attempts.

The analogue dial displays of both watches are clear to read, though the Tissot has more contrast and digit separation is better and the Tissot dial area and display are slightly larger overall. The Seiko gives up some of the space for the Alarm speaker, though in practice the Tissot has the louder Alarm.

Yet another Two Timer – alternative colour set – with blackened stainless case

There’s no doubt that the Two Timer model has a sleek wrist hugging design and produced with so many face designs, it seems to have a wonderfully fresh look every time I see one. And not many models can boast that versatility apart from maybe Swatch today, which is unsurprising as Tissot was a founder member of Swatch back in the day (and still a member today).

As to design – the Seiko, whilst the latest thing back then with a dial and display combination, somehow looks a little dated now, whereas the Tissot is very much of today. In fact it is difficult to realise the Tissot is 38 years old, basically owing to the overall design, build quality, materials and look plus comfort and functionality are quite a step up from this particular Seiko.

Seiko H249-5130 stainless ‘snap’ fit case back

And the Tissot Two Timer is maybe a bit of an oddity – produced to fill a gap, yet shows it’s superb Swiss heritage so well. The overall design and build quality a testament to Swiss design and watch construction. Also Tissot’s LCD digital display is clearly superior to the Seiko of this period and I know that Seiko, Citizen, Casio, Zeon and other analogue and digital Asian models in those days were not without issues.

However, considering the period, both watches have a raft of functions – such as – Home time, 2nd time or zone, Quartz movement/module, analogue hands and digital displays either linked or viewed separately, indications of Day, Date, Month, running Seconds, a Chronometer, Alarm, AM & PM indication, 12/24 hour selection. Very similar in fact. And in the case of the Tissot, functions are controlled by a single crown, which was quite an advance on what was an Asian digital watch revolution at the time.

My opinion, for what it’s worth, is the Tissot Two Timer is and has always been a bit of an ‘under-the-radar’ model. In fact, I’d say an understated classic, as it stands up so well even today. And I have not come across another Ana/Digi watch of that period with a better timeless look to it.
However, as said at the start, this comparison is perhaps a little skewed, as the Seiko was made in 1981, the Tissot in 1986. And 5 years is a long time in watch development, but regardless of the advancements, the Swiss Tissot Two Timer stands above any comparable Asian models of that time in both design and function.

And of course, model wise there are later Seiko, Casio and Citizen models around that likely better this particular Seiko H249 series, but my conclusion remains.

Just a word on the single crown control –

Ever since the Crown of a watch was introduced back in the early 1880’s, it was a revolution. John Arnold an English watchmaker first thought of some sort of knob to replace key wound watches of the day. Then Breguet took the concept further, allowing the Crown to manage more functions. So, the concept of looking at new ways to expand the Crown’s capability is not new, but with the Tissot Two Timer, the Crown reached new levels yet again. Especially in regards digital function, which is a complication all of it’s own making.
Anyway, whilst it all seems rather complicated – and of course, it is (a bit like an inkjet printer – it prints – but boy! it IS complicated). The trick however, is to manage the “user interface” to make it useable.

But for the watch Crown user, once done a few times – it really isn’t and there is a logic to it.
Generally – with most multifunction digital models, it is a case of selecting the function, either pulling out the crown or pushing a button will cause the digits to flash. Then either using pushers or crown, alter them to suit, then shove the crown or pushers back to the neutral position.
But as with all of them, unless you wear the watch frequently, it’s easy to forget what to do. And in fact, there are many modern digitals today that can get you frustrated.

On this Tissot there is a first and basic procedure that starts it all. And this is whether you’ve got one that’s displaying wrong or you’ve just changed the battery.
First thing to do – is synchronise the analogue and the digital displays.

And if you remember this first bit, then usually you start to remember what you’re doing (basically get things flashing, adjust and so on as above).

So, to synchronise –
And in this order – we first want a blank digital display by simply turning the Crown any way. Once the display is blank (off), pull OUT the Crown – this switches ON the time display. Then turn the Crown (this moves the hands – so you move them to match the digital time). Once the hands and the digits show the same time, simply push IN the Crown again. You are now synchronised!

Now you can set the correct time – With the Crown IN as you’ve just done, turn the Crown again until T1 on the display has a small cursor line below it and a digital time indicates. Pull out the Crown and the hours and minutes flash – and turn it – this time the hands and the digits will move together. (moving the crown slowly moves it minute by minute and FAST motors the hands quickly – like in hour jumps!). Set the correct time approximately, OR if you need to set it to the second, the seconds display will flash for another minute to give you time to set it exactly to the second. Then push in the Crown again.

And that’s the very basic bit , or what I usually remember bit, done!
Personally I don’t set it ‘to the second’ – let’s face it I’m retired! who needs seconds! Roughly to around the minute is fine for me.

And for the rest of the adjustments like Day, Date, Month, blah blah blah – get the instructions out! Then forget it all for the next 4 years or so until the battery pegs out! Then hopefully you might remember the basic bit – (blank display, pull out the Crown and move ”em all at once – yes?) the basic bit! above – then for the rest of it, you might have to find the instructions!

And finally – the best Tissot Two timer instructions I’ve found are here.

Budget Timex Daily watch?

Always nice to have a new Daily Beater – that is a watch you can wear everyday, easy to read, luminous, good size, dependable quality, tough, decent Water Resistance. One that also indicates the Date is always useful. Now, I have had a few daily beaters over the years and I’ve still got them all, because there as easy to slip on as a pair of socks or gloves. They’re one of those every day things you can take for granted.

However, I might have to question this Timex TW5M61004. It has been called a ‘Main Street’ model, perhaps another way of saying Daily Beater, who knows, but this is the model number which is more important to know.
A friend who recently got himself one is actually very pleased with it and he showed it to me and asked my honest opinion.

Always a tricky when that happens, isn’t it?

Well, it’s a Timex Quartz movement, so that should be OK. I do like the size of it at 42mm diameter and it lies flat on the wrist as it’s just 10.5mm thickness. The case is resin with the typical Timex stainless steel 4 x screw back, which has always been dependable. It also manages a 50m Water Resistance and it’ s NOT expensive.

Casio daily beater on the wrist – neat size – looks good.

It comes with a conventional pin buckle coloured silicon strap in red or black – this is the red one and I agree with him, it looks great and for once not too stiff (so many “rubber” straps at too stiff these days). And being attached to conventional spring-bars, it’s easy to change for any strap you wish. So, not a bespoke affair which is a real plus in my book. It’s also a quick release type which is very useful as no tools are required to do a swap. So, for this strap, I have to give it a +100% rating – as it is very well made, flexible and very comfortable indeed. In fact, I’d go as far to say it’s one of the most comfortable straps I’ve worn from Timex.

So far it’s all good.

Now, while this model looks like a ‘diver’ model, it isn’t – and Casio do not describe it as such. But it does ‘look’ like one and is pleasing to look at. Mildly male orientated I suppose with the dial, hands and numerals design, though of course the distinctive bezel does NOT turn.

Some might say this is terrible, but it isn’t a diver, so it’s not – in fact there are more customers of ‘diver’ watches who don’t swim or even to go near water, so hardly divers? So, most buyers won’t bother and if nothing else it looks good and maybe quite handy for a ‘quick glance’ time check for 10 or 20 minutes.

The large diver style hour and minute hands are OK and there is also a centre seconds hand, which is always handy to have. But and maybe this is my first ‘but’.
The seconds hand is grey coloured which I find at certain angles not that easy to see, even though there is a seconds ‘spot’ at the sharp end. To me, if you have a centre sweep seconds hand then I want to see it clearly, otherwise what’s the point.
The main hands and the numerals are according to the spec – luminous – and they are, but only just and certainly not really what I would consider luminous.
These are too faint and just maybe if you’ve got your glasses on in the dark, then hopefully you might see them. For me – simply not good enough.

Ah! I hear you say – Casio has Indiglo – to which I say – exactly!

I mention this because Timex have also incorporated their “Indiglo” night light system in this model – though for me this is a system that has never won me over.

It basically allows you to push in the crown and the entire dial lights up in a sort of blue/green glow and the hands and numerals are then backlit, appearing as a dark silhouette idea. Now, I have always found that the glow is often so bright, it sometimes swamps out the silhouetted numerals. So, this is not my favourite system – I would much prefer really good luminous hands/numerals etc. every time. And OK and apologies to my friend, but you asked – and that IS my opinion.

The rest of the watch ensemble is pretty well made, the resin case is tough, the large crown easy to use to quickly set the hands and so on.

However, another small niggle is the Date, which is indicated in a small window @4 – which in this instance could definitely be bigger, as the window recess is too deep and casts a shadow and not that easy to read. And double digit dates without a 1, can appear crowded, so really not that easy to read at a glance. If the window was a fraction larger and the date wheel closer to the dial, then it would be much better.
I would also note the date transition period (when it changes over at midnight) is one of those long ones, so for maybe 30/40 minutes the window is in-between dates – and with this small heavily recessed date window – VERY tricky to make out.

A nice point I noted was that between the lug bars, where the strap fits, there is a notch cut into the case, which allows the strap to sit snug against the case, without the case curvature getting in the way. This is a neat idea rarely seen and it’s a good idea.

As said this watch is Quartz and powered by the easily sourced CR2016 battery, so should be good for around 5 years or so.

In summary then I would have to say – I quite like it as a basic Timex which is OK and is not going to break the bank. And yes, it’s probably perfectly fine as a daily beater, though I would prefer also as a nightly beater with better luminous hands/numerals etc.

But on the other hand it IS an extraordinarily comfortable watch on the wrist and my personal gripes probably won’t bother my friend in the slightest or another wearer, unless a picky old guy like me.

It is what it is – and so am I! After all he did ask!

A clear winner?

Checking out digital watches over the last few weeks, it is very noticeable that so many of them are over-complicated. Displays (some not very good) that are really cluttered with so much information they are difficult even to read. Certainly not at a glance, which is how I’ve always checked a watch and usually because at that moment I simply want to know the time.

This got me thinking. Amongst all these offerings, could I find one that clearly and simply, could show me the basics – and at a glance.

SNE 1206S Ultra Thin Digital watch – and it’s very excellent display.

First I decided what I wanted from the watch. What are my personal requirements?

Well, the first and foremost one for me is simple – CLARITY. I want to be able to read the damned time – without too many display distractions.

So, my requirements –
1) – It has to be easy to read the time.
2) – The display needs good contrast, be uncluttered and show me the basics clearly – Hours, Minutes, Seconds, plus the Day and the Date.
3) – I would like to be able to read the time in the dark.
4) – An alarm would be useful.
5) – It has to be easy to operate (without referral to instructions).
6) – Good quality construction, sensible sized case (without the ‘macho’ so-called ‘military’ silliness), plus a conventional strap (not a bespoke affair or a bracelet).

(Note – with a conventional strap & pin buckle, it’s easy to sit the watch up on a bedside cabinet as an alarm clock – see image)

Armed with my list I started my trawl of digital watches – and there are literally many, many hundreds. First I start eliminating the expensive ones, the over-complicated, cluttered displays and those with model specific straps and of course the poorly made ones.

Changed look with a quick/fit soft silicon colour strap.

After all that, I finally, finally came up with this one – the SNE 1206S Ultra Thin Digital Watch

It is Chinese, as many, many of the cheaper digitals are, but this one meets my requirements pretty well.

The Brand is SNE, though there are so many ‘brands’ in China, it could be a one man band, a family or a small assembly house, who knows? I suspect this is from a small outfit, who buy-in bulk parts, importing where necessary, case locally and then export the assembled product. Using Amazon you can supply the world! This particular model was in an Olazone box with Panda logo, as the watch back (I’ve also seen a ladies white cased version). And there are other sellers marketing this watch or similar with slight differences such as display data, so there should be one to suit almost anyone!

4 x screw stainless back plate & 5atm Water Resistance

On this model, the case is PU resin, well made with a 4 screw stainless back plate, claims 5atm Water Resistance, though personally I would use this for everyday use, splashes and so on. Which is OK for me. The case is 43mm diameter and as advertised, Ultra Thin. It measures just 9.5mm. And being so flat on the wrist it looks good on smaller wrists. This model is also extremely light at just 36gms.

The thin flexible PU strap is OK, if a little bland and fits to the case with conventional spring bars. This means ease of changing to most watch straps of your choice if needed. (Note – not the first time I’ve said this, but many models have hard resin fitted or bespoke straps and difficult to replace, if at all – so, here’s my alternative in orange – certainly changes the look and it took me 43 seconds!)

A hard (probably imported) scratch proof acrylic crystal allows full view of the excellent and clear module display.

I particularly like the ease of reading, what I consider ‘at a glance’ – the main display of Hours, Minutes, running seconds. Plus the Day and the Date.

Excellent EL back light – for low light/darkness.

Having retired many years ago and no longer working, I never know what Day it is, or for that matter, the Date. Simply as their relevance is of no real importance anymore. (retired folks may well understand what I’m saying).
So, having both those displayed clearly is ideal for me. And conversely, I don’t need the watch to indicate the month or the year, because for some reason I never seem to forget these! And if I didn’t know them, well, I’ve got other issues!

So this uncluttered and excellent high contrast display, shows just what I want or need. Very clear and the EL back light for low light/dark use, is exceptional.

The watch is quartz powered of course and the battery required is the relatively large and easily sourced CR2016.

The functions are pared down basically to what is useful to me –

Mode pusher (B) – lower left – each press selects each display in rotation –

1) – Main Time, Day and Date display, with large Hour and Minute digits with running Seconds.
2) – Alarm – with snooze and hourly chime (selectable).
3) – Stop Watch – with split time (upper (D) pusher for start/stop and lower right (C) pusher for reset)
4) – Settings – adjusts with upper right pusher(D) and lower pusher (C) selects each item in turn.
Note – for the EL back light – press upper left (A) pusher. To instantly alternate 24hr/12hr time, press upper right pusher (D) when in Main display mode. Super simple.

Note that I haven’t mentioned setting the year and that’s because you don’t. The internal module is Auto Calendar. Once you set the Day and the Month, the module does the rest. These are usually programmed until 2099, so no worries on that score.

Another plus for me is, the watch and pushers are quite discreet, with no clutter on or around the dial. If you want to liven it up, the best way is to change the 22mm strap for a coloured one (as shown above in a soft orange silicon).

However, the real clincher is the price – this one just £17.99 with free postage from China and two weeks to arrive. Some of the variations of these models can cost even less, so it’s well worth checking them out and if you are into watches, then this both fun and cheap! However, this time my clear winner is the SNE as above.

Another model worth looking at – The GoldenHour GH1313 with alloy case and different data display module.
This is slightly heavier at 59gms, but still a light watch. It has a different module and displays Time (Hrs, Mins, running Secs) plus Day, Date and Month (note the month precedes the date – not UK style and cannot be altered).

This display type is also quite clear, though in low light it can’t match the SNE watch above. However it also has an EL back light which is excellent, so not an issue. The pushers positions on this model are identified on the dial circumference, but I note it also has hour and minute indices which are irrelevant, as this is not an analogue watch with hands!
Perhaps the information ring is used with other non digital models in their range? Who knows.

GH and SNE digital models with colour straps – look good.

I fitted a quick release orange strap just to see how it looks – the original came with a very thin, green coloured flexible PU strap, but of course easy to swap around.
Once again this is a rather well put together digital model at a very low cost – worth a look (Amazon UK).

Colour straps can really liven up the often dark Digital models.

I’m very encouraged after trawling through so many cheaper Digitals, not expecting to find really decent watches. So, something of a surprise that there are a few that appear to get the basics right. This won’t be the last time I have a look at what’s on offer – and it’s fun!

A growing number of extreme low cost Digital models have been appearing over the last year or so. These models are challenging the better known Brands, such as Casio, Citizen and Timex. I’m unsure if these are genuine ‘Brands’ or Pseudo brands, as they seem to appear almost weekly in different guises and obviously utilise a variety of digital modules. Many offer the same features, or the same or similar case and all are very cheap.

‘Hanposh’ or ‘Lenqin’ Digital model – same case, slightly changed module/dial configuration.

For example – This is a very similar model marketed by ‘Hanposh’ with yet another name on the dial ‘Lenqin‘ and a slightly different module (shows the Month) and I recall it was even cheaper!

Buyer beware – So, whilst it all sounds great for the buyer, I’d caution that these products are basically just assemblies. They don’t appear to actually be watch Producers as we’d know them, so no real factory Quality Control and possibly no meaningful Warranties. Also many of the descriptions (especially on Amazon) can be incorrect, such as dimensions, features and functions (as if even they get mixed up with the parts they assembled). And true Water Resistance (note – the term “water-proof” in regards to watches is never used) claims can be dubious to say the least. So as this paragraph title says – Buyer beware!

However, that said, I have two different models from different named suppliers and so far, they are both working as they should – but that’s the thing in this digital game, you’re either lucky or you ain’t.

But for me this time – this one is a winner.

My SkyHawk 10 year re-Post

I decided since the last time I Posted on my old Citizen SkyHawk, that I’d re-Post it every 10 years and today is the day. I promised to do this with it’s predecessor, but at the time needed the money for a medical operation and stupidly and made the short sighted decision to sell it along with 25 other watches. Well, the operation over, I had some cash left over and immediately replaced the old Hawk with it’s replacement at the time – 10 years ago.

I make no apologies for re-Posting it – And as for you younger folks who don’t know this watch – it was and is a masterpiece of dial design and a Classic of it’s time. It is for me, one of the most timeless (silly pun, I know) strap it on and forget about it, classic Citizens then or now.

The re-Post – from 2013/14

Skyhawk JY0005-50E at 45 mm diameter fits well with silicon strap.This is my Citizen JY0005-50E Skyhawk A-T Radio Controlled Eco-Drive, which reminds me so much of my older model, AND which has been updated for today with RC and Eco-Drive. Really pleased with it because in my opinion this is a Classic Citizen model of it’s and probably my generation.

Citizen Skyhawk - home at last. — Citizen Skyhawk – home at last. Note the down curving slide rule bezels.

That amazing concept of a digital multi displays coupled with a busy, yet unaccountably readable dial analog dial layout is still a winner and I include a few images here to show it off.
This is a model that will go into my “milestones” display box and will definitely not be sold on, unlike the last time. It seems to me to be about as far along this route that Citizen can go without changing the case and tinkering with the dial layout, though not by much I hasten to add, such as the Attesa model, which I know, silly me – I also sold on . . . ;-(
But occasionally I make the wrong decision and part with the odd watch for all sorts of valid reasons at the time – much to my regret.

But to this model – there is no doubt that it is a very nicely made piece of kit with lots going for it, such as the anti-reflection coated domed crystal and the clever configuration of the entire dial, which is a masterpiece in it’s own right. There’s no question in my mind that they got this right and right at the start too.Another thing I should mention is that I managed to get this at £100 off retail. The funny thing was and this is actual fact, the price dropped just after my last Post and as this was both the best price I’d seen and the last one the Dealer had in stock, it was a no brainer for me. Straight on to the web site and that was it!

And very happy I did too and as you see I got myself a lot of watch for the money.

Skyhawk JY0005-50E - Original steel bracelet changed for Silicon deployment - means 196gms to 110gms. — Skyhawk JY0005-50E – Original steel bracelet changed for Silicon deployment – means 196gms reduced to 110gms!

I didn’t in the end buy the Titanium one, which would normally be my preference, purely on weight grounds. However I solved this minor issue by removing the very heavy steel IP coated bracelet, which believe it or not accounted for 110gms of the total weight of 196gms, or heavier than the watch itself. Fitting a silicon deployment strap made good sense and the resultant all up weight is now just 110gms, which is actually 10gms lighter than the Red Arrows Titanium JY0110-55E version of this watch, so I’m very pleased with that. (update 2024 – I also have a silicon pin/buckle strap from ‘Cobee’ which is 16gms lighter and a Solo Loop Nylon strap for ‘YCHDDER’ which weighs next to nothing!)

The watch with it’s U600 movement, is of course a delight to use, easy to set and once on auto in regards Radio Control is a forget watch. Get yourself a Radio signal at 2am, 3am or 4am and the time is corrected as good as you’ll get. Summer/Winter times are automatically accounted for in settings (Auto) and to change Home time for Destination Time if traveling is simple to do. Crown out to Position 1, turn to select city shown in the digital display 1 on the right, press buttons A and B simultaneously and the new time jumps to display 2 on the left and the old Home time moves to the 1st display on the right, push in Crown – job done! Once on the way home just do the same again, but this time simply pull out Crown to Position 1, press A and B together, Cities move over, push Crown in – job done. So a very easy to use World Time traveller.

Classic Citizen Skyhawk - note the domed crystal and bezel — Classic Citizen Skyhawk – note the domed crystal and bezel

With the Citizen penchant and expertise for displaying data, the Charge Indicator @10 shows the current state of charge and it also doubles as transmitter indicator for your area. In other words, when Receiving, the little indicator will point to USA, Eur or Jpn. At the same time the Second hand will point to H, M or Low signal strength at between 1 and 2. So it’s very simple to see what’s going on at any time with this dial layout. The lower indicator sub-dial is the Mode selector indicator, which moves around to point or indicate your Mode selection, such as Time, Cal, Timer, Chrono, Alarm 1 and 2 and World Time – so again very easy. The digital display 1 on the right will show the selection start point.

By the way when the watch arrives in it’s box it may well have no charge at all, so before anything you need to stick it in the daylight for around 8 hours. Then it’s ready. After you’ve done this you’ll see it’s ticking away with Displays indicating and probably not the right time or date of course, so later that night you need to do a Manual Radio Receive. And this is easy to do.

First you need to set your Home City/Zone. Note you have two digital Displays. Display 1 on the right and the smaller Display 2 on the left. Display 1 is your World Time selection. Display 2 is always your Home City selection.

So to set your Home City/Zone start by pulling the Crown out to Position 1 and turn the Crown either direction to scroll through all the World Times on Display 1. When you get the one you want, leave it showing on Display 1 on the right. (Note when you pulled the Crown out, Display 2 will flash “M”, which means it’s in “Mode” setting ready for display switching). Now the City you selected (your Home City) is still showing in Display 1 (on the right). To move this city to your Home City Display 2 position, press both pushbuttons at the same time. This will transfer/copy the City from Display 1 to Display 2 on the left. You’ll see on my watch here that my Home City is set to London on Display 2 (left), and also on Display 1 which still shows the World Time of London. This display can also show the Month, Date and Day. Or the Time with seconds running.

It’s all pretty easy to do once you’ve managed it once or twice, so you shouldn’t need to continually refer to the instruction booklet.

When traveling it’s also very easy to select a Destination Time Zone. Basically your Home City is on the left Display 2 and the new City or World Time destination City you select is on Display 1. And you simply swap them over more or less as you already did above. So a great and relatively simple travellers watch.

Of course the watch is also a Calculator, Pilots delight, Motorists and Nerds friend with all sorts of calculations possible using the bezel and indexes on and within the dial, hence the text everywhere, though if you never use them, it’s OK as they’re not actually obtrusive. The Hour and Minute hands are quite broad with great luminous infill and have a considerable separation above the dial, so stand out very clearly. The sub-dial indication @12 is the UTC 24hr time and the one @2 indicates 24hr AM/PM, so again good data and well displayed, yet unobtrusive to the main time function. Note that unlike some other models, Citizen this time have ensured that the sub dial surrounds are really thin and don’t interfere with time reading when light levels are low. The main 0-12 markers are broad with great luminous qualities and the watch is extremely easy to read at night. There is also a digital display light operated by the top button which is very clear indeed.

Clean Stainless Steel back shows off sleek case design. Note – well protected knurled Crown

The watch case is extremely well made and surprisingly smooth and I particularly like the bezel with it’s sleek curves down at the edges. It is of course bi-directional being a calculation instrument and not a Divers model, though that said this model has a commendable 200m Water resistance. The central knurled Crown is protected by the case and the buttons are smooth and easy to operate. I also love the back of this model as it’s very plain but in brushed stainless steel and is not designed to be opened by anyone other than Citizen, nor should there be any reason to do so.

Dimensions are not too bad for today at 45 mm wide, though I am glad to see the lug to lug is a neat 49 mm, which means this watch can fit the smaller wrist without overhang, and the depth or height of the case is 15 mm. The IP coated steel is smooth and has a subtle brushed satin finish, not glossy at all. The bracelet supplied is a standard 22 mm lug width and uses standard spring bar fixings, so alternative straps or bracelets can be used easily and as I’ve done already. Another real plus when compared to many of it’s competitors.

Out of the box first impressions are this is a big, solid and heavy watch, yet remove that very heavy bracelet, fit alternatives such as that silicon deployment strap shown here and it’s suddenly not just very much lighter, but seems smaller and fits neater on the wrist.

Well defined dial with great hands to background separation

I’ve included a few images to try and show it in a more realistic light than you see on the Internet, and I’ll take a shot or two at night to show the luminous and display light aspects, though I’ll post the night shots later. The luminous quality is very good indeed and hands and markers still very clear after 6+ hrs total darkness. Added to that the digital display light for both Displays is excellent and very clear indeed. Certainly one of the better night use watches I’ve seen from the big three.

So after all that – I eventually got my Skyhawk and OK sadly, it’s not the old Navihawk and whilst I might have got a more lookalike model such as the Blue Angels (if still available), I’m really happy with this one – in fact I love it . . .

Is there a Downside? – well if honest, it is a bit larger than my old one, which seems inevitable these days – my old Navihawk was around 40 mm diameter against this one at 45 mm and it’s very much heavier, though I’ve fixed the weight issue by changing the steel bracelet for a silicon strap, with the result it’s now actually lighter than both the old one and the new Titanium version, so that was easily solved. I did, however keep the bracelet just in case and if I did sell it on . . . which in this case I’m definitely not going to do, it would have that option.

Anyway the Upside of this model far outweighs any negatives, as this watch is very much updated for today with addition of Radio Control and Eco-Drive and the inclusion of a Crown and only two pushers makes a neater and certainly easier operation, plus the more advanced U600 movement module, are improvements that really do Citizen justice without diminishing their concept.

And of course it’s on my wrist! And one thing that is certain – did I say this already? it will not be sold on, not this time . . . . no way!

Note 1 – Where did I get this one? I bought it HERE – and note they don’t now have stock and the price has increased – it was reduced for 2 days to £299 – and I snagged it – so there! 😉

Note 2 – The Attesa I refer to is a Citizen model I bought in 2009 and was probably the real upgrade model of the original Navi/Skyhawk concept – cleaned up and much more advanced and yet – well click on the Attesa in the Post (the paragraph below the first image above) and it’s article is there and the note at the foot explains all. Interestingly I see the latest Skyhawk has moved the slide rule, bezel data indexes inside the dial. This unfortunately is beginning to look just a little cluttered – unlike my model. It appears Citizen may be going too far though I hope not, but the Promaster Skyhawk PMV65-2272, seems perilously close and nearly £400 plus mailing costs from Japan. However on the plus side I note it has nice short lugs and a standard strap fixing, so it’s not all bad.

But for me, I’m sticking with his one – it’s one of those models that Citizen got right.