Get and forget (1)

As I indicated in the last “Get and forget” Post, I thought I’d have a look at Casio this time, regarding models that manage to offer good functionality at a reasonable price point and without overcrowded dials. So many models today have so much data overkill on confusing dials, they may start off being a novelty, but soon are consigned to the back of a drawer!

Casio AE1000W-1B World Time 48 cities + 10 year battery

Now I could just feature first model is the Casio AE1000W-1B which itself is a remarkably priced World Time, Alarm watch, really low priced at under $20 on US Amazon. For that you get a rather well designed dial with the main Digital window showing the Time, Day, Date and Month clearly. Also on there is a small seconds indicator and a Time Zone map – a tad gimmicky maybe but they don’t distract from the main view, so I can forgive that. Functions include 48 cities World Time, Alarms, Stop Watch etc. and a 100m Water Resistance in a neat case. The only down side for being the integrated strap/bracelet, which unfortunately is a feature of many Casio models, but that apart this model does represent serious value for money.

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But I’d rather major on the classic Radio Controlled (two receivers) Casio WVA-470DE-1AVEF sold here in the UK and Europe with appropriate DCF and MSF Radio reception – that is Mainflingen in Germany and Anthorn in the UK.

Casio WVA470DJ-1ACF Radio Control at under £100 — Casio WVA470DE-1AVEF
Radio Control at under £100

Being Solar Powered this watch never needs a battery. With 2 receiver Radio Control assuming it receives a signal from the appropriate Atomic Clock each day the accuracy is guaranteed and correct within the UK and Europe. It has good functionality with World Time, Chronograph Stopwatch to 1/100sec, 3 Alarms, battery check, signal check, hour beep, Neobrite analog hands and is Water Resistance rated to 10bar or 100m. It also features an LED backlight.

It’s also one of the better sized models (as was the Casio Oceanus) at a neat 42mm x 12mm and even though is analog/digital it has a really neat and classic analog appearance. It has a solid stainless steel bracelet with a double push button clasp and is adjustable by use of removable links (again as the Oceanus) using small tapered pins and sprung holding collars.

A point to bear in mind if adjusting/removing links, is to take great care and NOT lose the small link pin collars. (When I sold on my Casio Oceanus I included a letter to the buyer explaining just how to do it, as I was concerned he might make a mess of it and then claim a refund for a faulty strap – which it wasn’t of course).

Basically the link pins slide not only into the bracelet segment, but through a very small steel collar – it is this collar that grips the pin. Lose it and you lose the integrity of the whole bracelet as the pins will fall out.

However it is a good comfortable bracelet, just take care if resizing.

The price for this model’s functionality is under £100 which considering it’s predecessors represents great value for money. I know of three friends who have this model and they use it as their main watch and bearing in mind they each have watch collections too, it obviously says a lot for this model.

Casio WVA470DJ-1ACF composite steel/plastic case — Casio WVA470DE-1AVEF composite steel/plastic case

For me I particularly like fact that it has not been G-Shocked with plastic panels stuck all over it and has an uncluttered dial considering the functions. Note the luminous analog hands time and the digital time are always in synch. ie: they are not separate and both automatically adjust together on signal reception. It also has a neatly defined center seconds hand. The digital window is a good size without encroaching the dial yet large enough to read clearly.

The four pushers are neat and unobtrusive, though quite large enough for the whole fingertip when operating.

At under £100 this is quite an achievement when you consider that in 2009 I had the very latest in RC models – the Casio Oceanus Manta and the Citizen Attesa ATV53-2833, the latter I featured here in my Post of 2009 as the “ultimate” watch. Both models cost over £700 at the time! So on a cost/function basis this represents a quantum leap in terms of what was then available.

Citizen Attesa - another state of the art of the past — Citizen Attesa – another state of the art of the past

Casio Oceanus Manta RC state of the art in 2009 — Casio Oceanus Manta RC
state of the art in 2009

It certainly shows how times have changed and this little gem with it’s understated and uncluttered look considering it’s functionality – is a neat buy.

I like most aspects of this model and Casio have excelled in producing a watch, which is both high tech’ and low cost. Their expertise in the use of plastics is evident as the case is a lightweight composite of metal and plastic, which apart from reducing cost, has resulted in a smooth curved profile that fits most wrists very neatly.

They’ve just about managed to tick all the boxes, as they say. Bar one in fact. That is there is no quick “swap” of Home tome to a destination time, despite this being a World Time watch. You can read a selected World Time digitally, but not analog, unless you change Home time to your destination time which is a rather fiddly.

To get a watch with this functionality and looks at such the price is presently unmatched by other manufacturers from what I’ve seen. The competition tends to be composed of either very cluttered dial designs or much more expensive prices or both. (check out Watchshop under RC watches and you’ll get my point about cluttered dials).

Of course my favorite Radio Controlled watch these days is still my analog Citizen Eco-Drive A-T CB0020-09E also known as the World Perpetual A-T (+£300 some years ago). OK it is a higher specification with 5 receivers and bought because the World Time function was the easiest of any to set and it has a large clear analog dial with no digital display. Pull out the Crown, turn to another city as indicated by the seconds hand, push the Crown it in again and the hands instantly move to the new City – it’s as easy as that! When I travel abroad this is still my preferred companion.

However this Casio WVA-470DE-1AVEF works for me as a good RC indication type model and for under £100 is something else – Wow!

Oops! – Seems I forgot to Post the first “Get and forget (1)” of the series – it featured Timex – though no matter I’ll post it next time . . . . . .

Scrolling Pulsar

Since getting my own Pulsar recently (Pulsar PV4005X1) with which I am surprisingly pleased by the way, I thought I’d just mention these two models. They’ve been around for a while but have an interesting display feature that lifts them above the ordinary. The actual function set is similar to my more conventional standard matrix display model though quite different in operation.
This is the Pulsar PQ2013X1 and the PQ2011X1.

Pulsar PQ2013X1 scrolling Matrix LCD Display

A full dial matrix* display using a scrolling system with adjustable settings such as the LCD contrast and the LED light color. The digital display can be switched off and it also has an automatic Eco setting. The scrolling display is really quite odd at first until you get used to it, but actually very intuitive once you do. The two models here as far as I can tell are the same except for the color and the strap (they use the same instruction set).
Which do I prefer? Well I’d like the red highlighted dial but the black strap – just to be awkward!

The dimensions are substantial at some 48mm width by around 14mm depth, so on the limits for my 170mm wrist, though in saying that the buttons are quite flush to the case, so it might look OK the wrist.
But such is the scrolling display concept and the overall style of these models they are very tempting. One of the settings I like is the fact you can alter the display digits and show a very large date for example – could be very useful when not wearing my spectacles.

So a rough breakdown of the features – a Pulsar 2 year Guarantee, a 48mm x 14mm, black dial scrolling digital display, multi-function Day, Date, Month, Year, perpetual calendar (2059), World Times (39 cities), Stopwatch/chronograph 100hrs, Alarms etc etc. plus a stainless steel case, PU rubber strap with buckle and Oh yes a back light.

In fact the specification is really quite large especially with the added contrast and color settings and so on – very comprehensive.

There also appears to be a few different variations on this theme, such as the PQ2003, but they all have the same functions and it’s really a matter of cosmetics as to which you might prefer.

One thing is certain, they have a quite different look in comparison to the Casio and Timex range and have moved away from any sort of corporate look, which is nice.

For anyone who struggles with small text these are actually very good, as the text is exceptionally large and the contrast is good, certainly on the models I’ve come across.
However as I always say – try and see one of these in the flesh if this is important to you and BEFORE you buy.

And here is where the internet scores. Most of the reputable dealers have a good Refund policy, where if you’re not satisfied with your purchase you can return the item for a prompt refund without hassle. Just remember to make sure you keep everything, box, papers, attached labels and original packing and try not to wear it thus curving or creasing the strap etc. and you should be OK in your return process. Normally you receive a Returns Number and possibly a label from the supplier and if you then send it back with some form of recorded delivery, all should be well.

Note – the term matrix* should not be confused with “dot matrix” which was originally introduced by Seiko back in 1977. Whilst some modern LED models today may look “dot” are actually bars on ceramic substrates with small parts of this actually lit to conserve energy.

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However as to these particular Pulsar models and as far as large digital displays are concerned, the older Timex Expedition (vibration alarm) Model T49854J is actually pretty good too – and – it’s one of the easiest of watches to set, it’s lighter, smaller, cheaper and I’ve got one already – so . . . . . . as much as I like these new Pulsars here, I might give them a miss – for now . . .

The elegant watch (4)

Another look at those “elegant” models that we are so lucky to have around these days. Here is one of my favorites – the Blancpain Villeret Répetition Minutes.

Blancpain Villeret Répetition Minutes - absolute elegance — Blancpain Villeret Répetition Minutes – absolute elegance

Surely one of the most elegant watches that you not only can see, but hear!

Born from a need to know the time many years ago in the dark without light when luminous hands simply did not exist. Trials of a “touchable” watch with exterior hands and minute graduations was never going to be the answer as they were too easily moved by accident. And so “sound” was the key.

The Minute Repeater is probably one of the most complicated watch movements even today and there are not too many of them around. A slide on the side of the watch is moved and a chime sounds the Hours, Quarter Hours and Minutes – so much more artistic than luminous paint and with a discrete elegance that’s quite personal I think.

To find one today that has the purity of sound and the incredible exactitude of transforming the exact time with the applicable sound is a feat of watch intricacy that is extremely hard to achieve. This model features the calibre 35 which has 2 hammers @3. These strike against little “sounding rings” on the outer circumference and features 35 jewels in the movement.

Next up is this brand that I would not have normally have associated with the word elegance.

This is the Suunto Gambit 2 – an all in GPS, Weather Station, Time, Distance, Altitude – you name it and perfect for all you runners, trekkers and bikers and so on out there just raring to go.

The Suunto Gamit2 a position of elegance?

But for one in this particular guise it is really rather superb to look at too. Perhaps a bit big for me at 50mm x 17.5mm – but I feel I have to add this in to the “elegant” category I really do.

And then something perhaps unexpected in the shape of the Timex Easy Reader – Why?

Timex Easy Reader - simple elegance — Timex Easy Reader – simple elegance

I suppose it’s because of it’s utter simplicity and purity of form and function, this model has an elegance all of it’s own. Forget all those digital “hard to read” over functioned monsters hanging on to wrists that simply are not big enough to handle them and look sensible – THIS is a bring you down to earth reality check.

This watch does exactly what it says on the tin! Great dial, great numerals, even a 24 hour clock set and a clear date. Centre second hand and excellent clear hour and minute hands. For night use “Indiglo” of course. Nothing more and nothing less than a “watch” and there’s such a natural elegance in that.

The last pic this week is more in your classic form –

The very elegant De Witt – what can I say – except that it’s not quite as simple as your average watch. From one “easy reader” to another – in the form of this beautiful “jump” disc watch. This model is just 40mm in diameter and in 18ct Rose Gold and is powered by a manual wind movement with a 42-hour power reserve. The 21-jewel fully decorated movement operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour is also visible via an exhibition back. There is another color I understand and both look very elegant indeed.

So without doubt there are some very elegant watches around and most are really beautiful designs too. They don’t have to complicated either – take the Timex easy Reader for example, but can have a purity of form and function that has an elegance of their own and rightly so. It is also a fact that you don’t have to necessarily spend a fortune to find an elegant watch, though it is I contend somewhat easier, as design has so much to do with elegance.

Anyway what will I find next week? Difficult to tell, though I might just include another of my own collection and see if you agree.

Wenger – Swiss Army knife stuff

Wenger is a name I haven’t heard about much since I had one of their models some years ago. I do remember that it was actually a very good watch, though the range at that time seemed limited, in that each”Wenger” looked much the same as any other model. Perhaps I was being unfair at the time, but checking out their stuff today I find a rejuvenated brand that sports some really neat models and worthy of a look, especially at the lower end of their price range.

I’m impressed too that even at this lower price, each model has Sapphire crystal and a decent Water Resistance.

This is the Wenger Roadster 0851.106, a 45mm x 12mm Stainless Steel model with military dial markings and date. The 106 code denotes the orange 22mm silicon band (the 105 has black band). A uni-directional PVD coated bezel surrounds the black dial and the numerals, markers and hands are luminous. Swiss Ronda 515 Quartz movement and 100m Water Resistance. (Amazon quote Water Resistance as 50m and hardened mineral crystal – both of which are incorrect – see watch back image below).

A neat red centre seconds hand sets off the dial nicely, the end result being a very pleasing model. The fact that this watch retails for somewhere in the £139 region to me represents good value.

The second model that takes my fancy is this really sweet “Commando” Black Line. 40mm x 11.5mm PVD and Steel case, screw down crown, 100m Water Resistance, sapphire crystal and luminous markers on the 3 hand display. Day and Date window @3, Swiss Ronda 517-1 quartz movement plus a few color variations make this a popular model and one that certainly interests me.

The Commando Black line featured here retails for around £150 – again good value.

Wenger now have around 15 models with a whole host of variations offered and personally I’m really pleased to see this updated range, firstly as I’ve always rated their products and secondly as they do represent pretty good value, considering the excellent quality of their watches.

Finally here’s a selection of a few of their Commando and Squadron range –




Just a few models from a comprehensive range, shows a neat line up of pretty good value for money watches that look great on the wrist. So definitely worth a look to see what’s on offer and I reckon you won’t be disappointed with whatever model you choose. They are certainly on my list to watch and I might just get myself another model as I actually miss not having my old one.

Briston Clubmaster

For quality and elegance this new French Watch brand is a breath of fresh air! Seeing it on paper is one thing but to see it close up and personal is an absolute delight! I Just had to have this one as I had a feeling this could be a gem – and I was right! This is the Briston Clubmaster HMS Date quartz watch in Black/Khaki case/strap combination. Wonderful hand finished Italian polished acetate (Tortoise shell) case, seamlessly integrated into a stainless steel framework and is one of the sweetest watches I’ve come across for ages!

Briston HMS date watch - black/khaki with polished acetate case — Briston HMS date watch – black/khaki with Italian polished acetate (tortoise shell) case

Measuring 40mm x 40mm x 11.7mm this cushion shaped case impresses me greatly, such is it’s soft dark Tortoise shell lustre finish. The highly polished stainless bezel, lugs and case frame/back are so smoothly integrated it’s like an Art Nouveau gem. And the brightwork is beautifully polished, it really stands out.

Briston fits my wrist to perfection - and looks great! — Briston fits my wrist to perfection – and looks great!

The well figured large stainless crown has twin rubber rings for added grip and it’s two positions set the time (hacking) plus the quick set date. The matte background dial is contrasted by the quite broad but perfectly sized silver edged hour and minute hands, with luminous? infills and a white center seconds hand. White numerals at 12, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 with baton markers in between plus the date aperture @3 make up the uncluttered and very legible dial.

Luminous infill seems just fine, for a dress watch. — Luminous infill only just fine, for a dress watch. But could be brighter in my opinion.

This model is powered by a Miyota 2315 quartz movement which is a straight forward Japan assembled unit with an accuracy of around 20 secs/month and a battery change (Silver Oxide SR626SW or Renata 377) every 3 years or so. A sensible choice in my opinion as these are very reliable and also no problem if replacement is ever required. The Crystal is 2.3mm thick domed mineral glass and the model has a 100m Water Resistance rating, which is a real plus at this price range.

Seamless case/acetate fit shows high quality finish

The stainless steel back is a screw down type and again everything is seamless and smooth, almost as if it was one piece. Others should take note!

Clubmaster screw back shows Swiss Design & perfect fit — Clubmaster solid screw down case back shows Swiss Design & perfect fit

The supplied khaki NATO strap is 20mm wide and approx 245 in length and the case, having standard lugs, will accept any standard strap. But the advantage of the NATO style is that it fits the wrist so well.
Briston take care to match the strap style and colours to the model and this combination of the polished stainless steel bezel, lugs and back, framed by the brown lustrous tortoise acetate and all against the khaki colour of the strap – just does it for me. Indeed there are a few brands around who use alternative case materials, but this quality acetate is an absolute winner for me.

Briston have obviously taken some thought as to the superbly made crown, which is a delight to use and could be a Brand feature – a part so often neglected in watch design.

Receiving the watch was actually a nice experience, if I can say that, as the box has a soft touch white finish and opened with the little red ribbon pull, reveals the watch elegantly presented on a broad mounting pad. Also inside is the Instruction Booklet in French and English with the 2 year Guarantee incorporated on the back page.

Briston box is also an elegant affair without being pretentious.

So am I pleased?

Yes! in fact VERY pleased and delighted with this purchase – it is certainly one of the sweetest watch models I’ve seen for years! As I already said, a breath of fresh air from this new Watch Company just has to be good!

For wearing it’s equally as good as a dress watch or as a daily. It costs around £130 in the UK (HERE) from Twisted Time and for me, the use of that perfectly finished and shaped acetate, is an absolute design triumph and the overall concept is arguably well above it’s price point.

I have to assume the chronograph versions are every bit as good and I’m sorely tempted already – maybe a new collection starting?

Note – The Briston Clubmaster Chronograph model is also available from Twisted Time here in the UK. Whilst it uses the same design concept and a similar quality of movement (Miyota OS21 quartz). It’s more more expensive at around £200, though is still good value for me.
Now, they are nice, of that there is no question, but whereas my date version is in my opinion really good value, time will tell if the Chrono version is too. The same colour scheme as my Date model for example is £215.

I will, however, keep an eye on this Company, as I have the feeling they have more to offer and who knows, another one for my collection could be in sight.

The elegant Watch (3)

My third outing of “The elegant Watch” feature, showing watches I would consider could meet that description. Starting with the Ralph Lauren “Sporting” model with it’s IWC Cal.RL98295 mechanical manual wind movement.

Ralph Lauren "Sporting" model - (IWC Cal.98295) — Ralph Lauren “Sporting” model – (IWC Cal.98295)

The well constructed Stainless steel case and matching bracelet and general look of the piece I find rather pleasing. It features a seconds sub-dial @6, convex Sapphire Crystal with internal and external colorless anti-reflective coatings. The dial is unusual with a black matte galvanic center, brown elm burr wood outer (fixed with 4 screws), Arabic beige colored numerals and white hands, each with luminescence. At just over 44mm diameter it is a substantial watch and yet still manages to look elegant.

Another very stylish watch but from Germany is this lovely Limited Edition BENU by Moritz Grossmann.

This model in Rose gold equipped with a manually wound movement adjusted in five positions. Hours, minutes and seconds, 42-hour power reserve, solid silver dial, Arabic numerals, sapphire crystal with anti reflective coating, hand-crafted steel hands with brown/violet hue, hand-stitched alligator strap and limited to 100 watches worldwide.

Not to be outdone in the “elegance” stakes this next model shows that not all elegant watches have to be gold or classically shaped. This is the v-tec Gamma designed by Michel Huber. A highly interesting design from the orginal Ventura square model back in the 1990’s.

The watch dimensions are 41.85mm x 36.50 in a hardened Durinox® case. Sapphire crystal, multifunction VEN_10 digital module (backlit LED display), 50 metres Water Resistance and orange rubber strap with adjustable folding buckle. The brushed case finish and orange/yellow strap with the black face really set this off and for me it has a definite modern elegance.

Last and certainly not least is the wonderful (and expensive) Jaquet Droz 6553L2, Self winding mechanical, double barrel, retrograde moon phase with 22ct white Gold rotor. Bit of a mouthful I know, but what a stunning watch. 28 days reserve, 28 jewels in an 18ct red gold, 39mm diameter 12.7mm height case, with 3 bar WR or 30 metres.

Jaquet Droz - who else? — Jaquet Droz – who else?

The dial features Triple Date Calendar complications on an Ivory Grand Feu enamel with 18ct gold applications plus moon phase and 18ct gold hands including the strap buckle. Yes this is one very highly specified watch from one of my very favorite watchmakers. For me this is simply a delight and elegance in the extreme – if only I could afford one of these, then I’d happily reduce my collection down to far less models but much more of this quality.

So another four “elegant” models for you to consider and I’m already looking forward to the next Elegant watch post . . . .

Lorus, Pulsar choices (2)

Part 2 of my quick look at Pulsar and Lorus brands –

The LORUS range of watches have been around for quite a long time and usually represent very good value for money. Part of the Seiko brand, Lorus price point is slightly lower than Pulsar, with around £150 being their most expensive model – and yet manage to offer some really stylish and well specified models, two of which I’ve picked for a brief look.

Lorus RW605AX9 Ana-Digi Chrono (Cal Z021)

First is the Lorus RW605AX9, and I picked it owing to it being an Ana-Digi display (one of my favorite combinations). Note that these models feature Dot matrix displays rather than the more common LCD. I have a couple of dot matrix “style” LED display watches and find them very good, though it has to be said whilst OK this particular one is perhaps not quite as bright as I would like, though the back light is good.

This model as those in the Pulsar range is pretty well specified. Analogue wise it features Hour, Minute and centre Seconds hands and the Digital display shows the Day, Month, Date and also the Time. It also features an Alarm (with snooze), a Chime, a 23hr/59/59, 1/100sec Stopwatch Function with Split Time, 12/24 Hour Indicator and for night use has a full dial EL (electro-luminescence) Back Light. The watch also features a flat mineral crystal, a good size stainless steel case with black fixed IP bezel and a 10 bar (100m) Water Resistance.

The Analogue and Digital times are set independently (analogue seconds hand stops during Analogue setting) and interestingly this model has two (2) batteries. The analogue movement has a SR622SW battery and the Digital movement a CR2025 – (how they squeezed them in I’ll never know) so it should give decent usage time for the EL back light and alarm. Battery life is quoted as approximately 2 years.
The case is 46mm, so is maybe a bit larger than I’m comfortable with. I comes with an OK looking black PU strap with buckle.
I note the hands are chrome edged, which in my opinion is never a great idea as it tends to give reflection – and as only seeing one in the flesh will confirm that, I would have to reserve judgement on the actual clarity of the overall dial set up.

Now when you consider the price for this model is around £50 on Amazon – plus in my view three plus points going for it – 1) – it’s NOT the same style as a Casio, 2) – it has an analogue seconds hand and 3) it has a 23hr/59/59 chronograph – so it’s pretty well specified and there are three versions available. I would note though the Pulsar models do seem overall to be in a slightly higher league.

Footnote – I note Pulsar make a cosmetically different model at around twice the price. However I see the hour and minute hands are broader with no chrome edging and the display may be a different fluorescing matrix LCD, so could well be much brighter (as the Pulsar review in the last Post) – perhaps justification for the higher price?

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I also checked out a low priced Lorus all digital model – the Lorus R2307EX9, a neat watch with modern clean lines and decent size digital display.
It features a custom strap, which I confess is not my choice, but this is very often the case with these styles of watch, though the whole piece does look well balanced. The case is ABS with an ABS bezel and a 4 screw case back. A black PU strap as mentioned and curved acrylic glass and some 13 digital functions.

These are – Hour, Minute, Second, Auto-calendar (2000 to 2049), Month, Date, Day of week, Chime, Chronograph, Alarm, AM/PM or 12/24 hour format, Dual Time & Count Down Timer. Night use is catered for with a full dial EL back light and the watch is 100m Water Resistant. The movement designated as Cal. Z009. Once again this is a pretty good specification and appears reasonably well made and can be sourced for as little as £12.95 on Amazon, which is frankly amazing!

However, and I say this with every digital display, it does depend on the contrast and LCD/Matrix fluorescent quality and whilst both models appear OK in the images, it’s a learning curve as to how you see it in less than ideal light.

Lorus conventional watch styles - OK but? — Lorus – basic style chronos – low Price point

Pulsar conventional styles are more progressive — Pulsar – more progressive & next level Price point

Lorus and Pulsar produce a good range of conventional chronograph styles though Pulsar (more expensive generally) appears to offer a slightly higher quality and are more adventurous in design and features. For me though it’s the range of dare I say “Casio features” style models that mostly attract my interest (ie: the Pulsar PV4005X! ). Their Digital and Ana-digi models seem to be their designers forté and give a hint to what they can do.

So it seems Lorus and Pulsar (from Seiko) are brands worth looking at, as they appear in certain areas, to offer pretty good value against their peer brands and competitors. Obviously there are production and parts savings somewhere in the equation, but the end results do confirm they have a good few models worthy of consideration.

And when money is tight – you can’t afford NOT to check them out.

The Powerhouse Format

Since my trawl around for G-Shock alternatives I’ve found a few unfamiliar watches that have impressed me greatly. And not because of the alternative concept, but just because these are different and maybe even special. As wrist statements they’re good as they are built solid and look great – and not usually guilty of being a “macho” type, I try not to swagger when wearing any one of them!

I’ll feature just one and I was so impressed I bought the company – eh? . . .well not quite, but I did buy one of their best models – the (St Moritz) Momentum Format 4 – I call it the powerhouse! For those in the know some apt descriptions come to mind – such as the T90, the Type 90 (Kyu-maru), AMX-56 Leclerc, the T57, the Soviet IS-3, the Landkreuzer P. 1000 Ratte and finally the Challenger 2.

OK maybe I’m a bit over the top here – and for those not in the know, these are all main battle tanks of various Countries. But you get my drift – the Format 4 is a VERY solid piece of work! and built like one.

St Moritz Momentum Format 4 - a classic tough watch — St Moritz designed Momentum Format 4 – a classic tough watch

Made of high grade matte Titanium this watch certainly has presence, with it’s uni-directional wide deep figured bezel with luminous dot @0, plus a very definite 60 click function, large well figured screw down crown and shaped pushers. Surprisingly the dimensions are just 43mm x 14.2mm and the whole ensemble weighs only 90gms. The rubber strap as always with these Diver orientated models has the usual “wave” construction silicon/rubber, which as I’ve said before might be ideal for added grip over a neoprene wet suit, but against your wrist can be somewhat aggressive. I’m resolving that issue later this week when a deployment silicon 22mm strap I’m waiting for arrives. (note – my Apeks Diver 200 model has similar “waves, but which are flat on the under side – very sensible).

Orange Monster, Format 4 and the Pulsar Race - every one a powerhouse! — Orange Monster, Format 4 and the Pulsar Race – every one a powerhouse!

The size comparison above shows the territory we’re in and it shows well here. Actually three watch are types shown – The Monster is “analogue”, the Pulsar is “digital” and the Format (and why I picked it as one of my alternatives to the G-Shocks) is “Analogue/Digital” AND has a very comprehensive digital function set.

On first looks the dial has a very black background (called a blackout dial) within which there are two digital display windows. There are numerals at 12, 3, 6 and 9 with indices in between. An Hour and Minute hand plus a centre Seconds hand in orange plus a white coated end. The luminous aspect of each of these elements is provided by Super-Luminova coatings and according to Momentum, guarantees up to 8 hours legibility in low light and darkness. The heat tempered mineral glass is very scratch resistant and the analogue movement is Swiss quartz with LC digital display.

Digital matrix displays show well - Note the Format4 can be programmed out. — Format 4 Digital matrix displays show well – and can be programmed OFF.

The digital function of this model is very comprehensive, featuring Local Time mode, World Time mode (59 cities + my city), Alarm mode (5 + scheduled), Timer mode and Chronograph mode (10 laps + memory). An auto and manual Power Save setting is also incorporated where you can turn OFF the digital display at a preset time or immediately with any key reinstatement. The dial has an EL back light which illuminates the matrix digits on my one for 4 seconds (not 3 as instructions) which is ideal and excellent in use.
The watch has a battery life (CR2025 Lithium I believe)) of approximately 2 years and the Water Resistance is 20ATM or 200m.

Great dial, clear, uncluttered and excellent digital display

Note – some of the descriptions I’ve seen for this watch are inaccurate in some details. Possibly as the previous version has been substantially upgraded by the introduction of the Format 4 and their sales info not updated to reflect the changes. The improved Water Resistance rating for example from 100m to 200m and the much improved digital display, which is excellent.

Exposure to dull daylight via window, then shown in low light curtained room

Shown with digital back light lit, just after the previous image.

The above images taken after the watch was exposed to the window (natural light on a dull day), then into a darkened room with curtains drawn. The second image taken with difficulty (I needed three hands) as the EL back light is only on for a few seconds, so a case of press the pusher then try and compose the picture and take the photograph. Not that easy! So forgive my shaky hand, but it gives some impression. The digital EL back light in total darkness is excellent and as above, can show any of the digital functions including as here, the Day, the Date and the Time. Analogue display night vision with Super-luminova is OK, though not quite as good as my Citizen, Seiko or Apeks 200. Whilst it doesn’t appear to take such a bright initial charge as the former, it is still readable in the dark after a good 8 hours – I tried it last night and it’s fine. (to be picky reading analogue time would be easier if the hands were full length solid infill).

So overall I’m really pleased with this model as it manages everything I could possibly need or want from an ana-digi watch. In addition it’s built like the proverbial brick outhouse, but conversely is really lightweight and also a good size. Anyway on this watch, which I’m sure is a keeper, the only change will be to the strap (can’t snorkel these day, so a wetsuit and I will never meet) and I hope to have a suitable one soon, that’s a bit kinder to my old wrist . . .

A great watch at an affordable price and considering the functions and performance – great value.

UPDATE –
As said when I started this Post, I felt the strap had to be changed and here is the straight forward alternative. A silicon deployment style that fits great and pulls the watch in nice and close to the wrist with perfect comfort. No Diver’s “waves” to contend with – and it makes all the difference. Funny how it is reminiscent of my old Nivada Grenchen Depthmaster (I wore this back in 1961-73) – see images below.

Format 4 with my preferred silicon deployment strap.

Nivada Grenchen Depthmaster - 1000ft — Nivada Grenchen Depthmaster – 1000ft (courtesy of watchuseek)

Not quite in the same league and many differences of course – but it just has that old Nivada look. The above image is similar to my old one, which like an idiot I sold on some years ago to a collector, which I wasn’t at the time, but having given up diving and so on I was unlikely to don a wetsuit again anyway. Oh how I wished I’d kept it now!
However – back to the new strap images of the Format 4 – much better and neater without the Divers style strap and much, much more comfortable.

New silicon strap fits watch flat to wrist. Makes the watch seem smaller.

New silicon deployment strap fits perfectly

And finally the back of the watch showing the screw back fitting with the 20ATM mark and which also illustrates the very neat silicon deployment strap fitting (straight) which is such an improvement in my opinion.

An interesting point about the replacement strap – it makes the watch actually look smaller on the wrist (as noted on one of the images above). I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – never judge a watch by it’s supplied strap – is it OK for you? And if it isn’t – check out the alternatives – you might just find that perfect combination.

I did.

IMPORTANT – CHANGING THE BATTERY

You may be used to swapping out your old battery on most watches and it’s usually quite easy to manage. However be CAREFUL when changing this 2025 Battery.
Unscrew the watch back and you will be faced with what appears to be a quite solid frame inside, which is secured to the movement assembly. Leave it well alone and DO NOT try to remove it. Stuck on the top surface you will see a sticker, which says “do not remove this sticker”. Well you can (in fact you have to, to get at the battery). BUT take care.
There are 3 points to watch here. On the edge of the sticker there are two small opposing cut outs, which allow 2 x metal connectors to connect to the watch back, when it’s in place. The 3rd point to note is, if you look very carefully, there is a small gold coloured spring that sticks up through a small hole in the sticker.

Once you have spotted these, then you can carefully peel off the sticker, noting it’s position relative to the connections and the spring. Once removed, the battery is there in front of you. A small battery cradle holds the battery secure – simply release one side (there is a sprung clip affair – which is easy to release) – once it pops/hinges up (leave the other side attached), you will be able to slip the 2025 battery out.

Slip in the replacement battery, push down the battery cage until it clicks into place, then carefully replace the sticker in the same position you found it – taking care to make sure the two metal connections are free of the sticker and the little gold spring protrudes from and through the small hole in the sticker. If OK, then simple screw on the watch back once again. You will should now see that everything has come to life – second hand is moving and the digital display is live.
Now you just have to set the analogue time and digitals to the correct time, date, month etc etc etc and you’re home free.

A good tip if you’re one of those folk that find it difficult to remember the sequence of things. Once the back is removed, take a photo with your phone – a nice close up of the exposed movement and interior of the watch. You will then see quite clearly, the 2 x metal connections at opposite edges of the sticker (it’s cut away so it doesn’t cover them) and also the gold spring that pokes up through the sticker. Once you’ve done the battery change as above, you can check your work against your photo -they should be the same – JOB DONE!

G-Shock not for you?

The title poses the question: What if you don’t like the G-Shock style? What else is there?

It depends, apart from a fashion thing, on just what you want from a watch.

If it’s just toughness (perceived or otherwise), then it’s relatively simple especially as in reality the question is – How “tough” does a modern watch actually have to be – honestly. And let’s face it, most good watches are intrinsically pretty tough to start with and “on your wrist” they are very much part of you – so whatever happens to your watch, may well happen to you!

My own view is that whatever model I pick, tough or otherwise it has to have certain basic Watch requirements.

1) – I have to be able to read the time – easily – and that’s day or night (a basic requirement in my book).
2) – 100m Water Resistance minimum – OK that’s not silly.
3) – Not too large – PLEASE! Too large and too thick, it starts to take on comic proportions!
4) – Battery quartz is fine – It doesn’t have to be Solar, World Time, have Multiple Alarms or Chronograph – though “some” functions can be useful.
5) – It doesn’t have to survive a 10m drop to concrete – it really doesn’t (definitely the forté of Casio)

And are functions essential? –

Chronograph/Stopwatch – when did I last use a chronograph/stopwatch? Answer: Can’t remember it was so long ago!
World Timer settings – I can manage that on any cheap analogue model in 5 seconds (without referring to the instructional booklet – IF I can find it).
Solar (Eco-Drive etc) – Battery is fine with me, with a cell change every 2 to 5 years. (Kinetic is another option).

So in reality (and that’s the point here) it shouldn’t be too difficult to find a relatively “tough” watch model that can meet sensible requirements.

Knowing I was writing this today I asked a friend (this morning actually) what functions had he actually used on his G-Shock DW5600 (I have one of these myself) in the last month? And his answer didn’t come as much of a surprise – “None” he said, “except the time, day and date plus the back light”. And that really does say it all . . . . . and had I asked myself the same question, the answer would have been identical!

However, G-Shocks usually come with a large function set, whether used, useful or otherwise and a major reason for their attraction. However as to the hard knobbly looks, overly protected pushers, and surprisingly not too intuitive settings/controls and arguable legibility, are often NOT as one would like – hence the reason I like to look for alternatives. Incidentally Casio do make the odd model that whilst not as obvious in shock protection terms does have that facility and without the “macho” look (I’ll perhaps consider them at a later date).

So what’s out there?

I was advised Luminox are a good alternative, but after checking them out I thought them a little overpriced for what they offer. Mechanical prices for average quartz – not an option for me.

In fact my 6 year old Uzi Protector (looks like Luminox) costs around £175 today and it’s managed all those few years without any issues of any kind and still going strong.

Uzi Protector - Swiss Quartz and 200WR — Uzi Protector – Swiss Quartz and 200WR

200m Water Resistance, analogue H,M & seconds, plus Date, Tritium light source, battery Swiss quartz and a tough blighter it is too. 40mm x 14mm dimensionally with webbing strap. No fancy functions, but a very good performer that meets my basic requirements and is pretty tough I’d say.

So that’s one option, so then I looked for a model that was both tough and had a comparable function set and this one came to mind. The Momentum Format 4 – which is smaller than it looks and also in Titanium. Some would immediately comment that Ti will scratch and it won’t last etc etc. Well I have to differ on that as I have 7 Titanium watches and they look as good now as when I bought them many years ago.

The Format 4 actually has an impressive function set – both analogue and Digital displays. Analogue Hours, Minutes and Second hands and Digital two Digital displays which can show a whole range of indications – such as – World time (59 cities plus user defined), 5 Alarms plus a schedule Alarm, Date, Day, Month, a Chronograph and Stopwatch 23, 59,59 with multi-laps, Timers. In addition the digital displays can be switched OFF facilitating power savings with or without auto on feature and the watch has Super-luminova analogue hands and indices, plus a 3 second duration EL back light, so no problems in the dark, even if not using the digital features. The watch has a Mineral anti-glare crystal, uni-rotating bezel (useful), a 200m Water Resistance (20ATM), with large screw down crown and back and takes a standard 22mm strap or bracelet and is powered by a Swiss quartz movement. And the 2 year Guarantee is extendable to 6 years.

And whilst I said it looked big and it does, it only measures 43mm x 14.5mm and in Titanium weighs just 90 grams and it looks pretty tough to me. Now I’d say this is a decent alternative to the G-Shock style and OK the watch face may not have much protection, but personally I’ve never had a shattered watch glass on any watch I’ve owned in my lifetime, so not a priority for me.

What I do see is a very fast legible take up analogue face, plus a secondary digital display and function set that meets and surpasses anything I’m ever likely to need or even want to use. So I’m happy with this choice. There are of course others out there, perhaps obscured to some extent I suppose, by the hype that “G”, “Shock” and “Tough” descriptions engender, but they are there – you just have to look.

Note – The Momentum 4 is also reasonably affordable and highly competitive in comparison to many of the G-Shock variants, especially considering the function set. Currently it sells for around £180 in the UK, which is pretty good for a Titanium cased Ana-Digi Diver Grade 4 Water resistant model. In fact I liked it so much I ordered one myself which will join my other Divers models, though this particular model I’ll have to consider my first real G-Shock alternative.

However – and there’s always one of those – IF you can’t get your head round the fact that it’s not that easy to inadvertently smash or crack your watch glass – and it really isn’t – you do have another option. And this model from Citizen might just solve your concern.

This is the Royal Marines Commando Titanium from Citizen which whilst it doesn’t have a great function set, it does the “tough” basics very well – in fact just what I needed when I was in my action days!

The one piece IP plated Titanium case is 42mm x 13mm, with an ultra thick 2.5mm sapphire glass, which is just about bomb proof I would have thought. Eco-Drive Citizen movement with the basic analogue functions of Hour, Minute, Seconds and a date window @3. Plus good luminous numerals/indices and hands means decent night use. Good crown protection and with a tough Kevlar strap and a commendable 300m Water Resistance all point to a seriously “tough” watch. It comes with the Citizen 5 year warranty. Price should be no more than £300 here in the UK.

So there you have it, after a few minutes crawl around the net and already I’ve come up with a couple of decent contenders.

And I have to admit (and the reason for this post) personally I was becoming a little bored by the whole G-Shock and “tough” watch concept, especially as the prices seem to be rising with each new model. And with few “new” features in the latest models, with the exception of a more extreme case, an extreme name and a larger SIZE, it’s little surprise that I decided it’s time to look elsewhere.

And very glad I did too, as there are certainly alternatives out there – you just have to get past the “G’s, “Toughs”and “Expeditions”, to find them.
And what of the two I’ve found here? Well I like them both and whilst I hear the concerns about watch glass breaking, I really have no experience of that ever happening to me. The odd scratch maybe, but nothing serious. So on that basis considering the impressive function set and the price, the Ana-Digi Format 4 is maybe the one I’d pick. Mind you the Citizen is one seriously smart and tough piece of work – a bit like the guys it was named after perhaps . . . . .

But there will be others around, you can be sure of that, so have a trawl – you might just be surprised.

But – and here’s a “but” to contend with! The Casio G-Shock for all it’s macho looks IS a seriously tough watch, though whether you actually need one is another matter entirely and just to illustrate the point I show youthe “drop test” video from Casio. And you have to admit – it IS very impressive!

Lorus, Pulsar – choices

Sometimes in this world of Casio, Citizen and Timex I yearn for the odd model that doesn’t have that corporate look. The Casio and G-Shock or the Timex Expedition for example, so this week I decided to have a look at some different watch models and styles from two Brands, Lorus and Pulsar. Although specialising in a lower price point as a sales philosophy they do manage to produce some up to the minute watches.
And being part of the huge Seiko empire they have access to some serious watch electronic know-how and are well worth a look. The first model that caught my attention is the striking Pulsar PV4005X1, which on first impression is Style with a capital S and when you see it up close it really does stop you in your tracks!

Whilst it looks the part it also appears to come up with the goods as far as specifications is concerned –

Black dial (Negative) full-panel dot-matrix “style” liquid crystal panel, with Hours, Minutes, Seconds (Digital). It also shows Day, Date, Month, Year. Other features are a 10hr 1/100 sec Chronograph, Split time, Timer, 3-channel Alarm,and World Time (33 cities). For night use it has a LED panel light with auto illumination, Mineral crystal, a Stainless Steel case, 4 screws back and a Water Resistance of 100m, plus a PU strap, rounds up what this model has to offer. Dimension wise a little big for me at 49mm width, but still smaller than most of the newer G-Shock models, so could well be a popular choice.

As with all digital displays, it does depend on the contrast and whilst it looks OK in the images, it is a learning curve as to how you see it in less than ideal light. It has of course a panel light operated by the lower right pusher. (Personally I prefer an Ana-Digi set up as I find analogue hands easier to see these days, but for those into digital this model certainly has bags of appeal).

Note – The LED panel illumination selected manually or on auto has a nonadjustable duration of 2 secs. From my experience especially at night, the eyes and brain struggle to take in and read dial information in that time. Timex for example have a 3 seconds option which is much more effective. An adjustable duration setting would be preferable.

However on balance and certainly for looks it’s a winner and I’ve seen it on Amazon for around £90, so it also appears to win on price too.

Here from their European web site are a few images – these can all be seen HERE.

Pulsar - selection 2 — Pulsar – selection 1

Pulsar - selection 1 — Pulsar – selection 2

I’ll be looking at Lorus (another Seiko brand) in a forthcoming Post and featuring one specific model that a friend has just acquired – might be interesting.

UPDATE –
Managed to get hold of one of these models and it is pretty impressive I have to say. It’s not too big on the wrist (mine is only 170mm, so quite small) as the case is 13.9mm, but the rubber strap is quite thick at the fitting point on the watch. The strap has preformed underparts which hold the strap at a curve at the fixing point. This makes the watch stand out further than perhaps it should from the wrist. I will play around with fitting an alternative (26mm) silicon strap just to see how it looks and post the result in a further update Post. Maybe I’m being picky here and it may turn out to be OK anyway – but we’ll see.

Here’s a couple of images of this watch – 1) on the wrist and 2) in comparison to a Fossil with similar display set up. I note that the matrix “style” display on this Pulsar is certainly one of the best I’ve seen. It has a similar luminescence almost on a par with my Breitling Aerospace, which has always impressed me. So full marks to Pulsar! ALSO – In reality the matrix “style” display clarity is exceptional and as the figures are so large, 2 seconds is easily enough time to read the time/data in the dark – very impressive and I stand corrected!

Pulsar on smallish 170mm wrist is actually not to bad at all.

Comparison to Fossil with similar display set.