This watch was certified as genuine before my friend bought it just in case anyone was planning to accuse me of using a fake!
@frankyz007
5 ай бұрын
I Can imagine you have vérified it was a genuine one...
@Happyfacehotwheels
5 ай бұрын
You should have opened up the case back and shown the movement. Internet people believe nothing unless it's in video form.🙂
@Rock1111111
5 ай бұрын
Sorry, but no way this came from Rolex with a scratch on that hand.
@YouTube_is_full_of_trolls
5 ай бұрын
@@Rock1111111other channels have covered imperfections on "luxury watches". Check them out on here and these are fanboy channels
@YouTube_is_full_of_trolls
5 ай бұрын
@@Rock1111111many other videos showing identical issues with qc that's not noticeable to the naked eye and only seen with a loop.
@stevemoon2136
5 ай бұрын
My favourite part has been watching people being massively offended that you would even dare compare a Rolex to a San Martin. Good work, keep it up!
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
I know, like I’m committing some cardinal sin
@WparuSlowach
5 ай бұрын
Are you serious?! 😮😢
@canadiankrispybacon1450
4 ай бұрын
My favourite part is reading the responses and childish name calling of anyone who disagrees..making obtuse statements about being “massively offended” and “dare to compare”! If the only expected response to this video is to agree..then who is really being a “fan boy” 🤔 Fan boy is a massively overrated and and over used terminology regurgitated by those who are unable to articulate a coherent argument….they attack anyone with an opposing opinion. IMHO, we should be able to disagree, having debate without childish and emotional statements….and maybe I missed it in the comments, I read quite a few, but admit I did not read all..having said that, I didn’t see anyone ‘massively offended’ 🤔
@ollyw2897
5 ай бұрын
Much prefer the deeper bezel engraving on the Rolex. Much prefer the price of the San Martin.
@RenghisKhan
5 ай бұрын
They just forgot to add the lume, mate. The engraving is probably comparable so you can always opt for removing the lume on the SM.
@Luminated67
5 ай бұрын
@@RenghisKhanhaving spent time with both a San Martin and a Rolex I can’t agree that the quality is the same. For a start the lumes on the Rolex Submariner last longer than the San Martin GMT and the deeper engraving on the bezel looks mint. Then there’s the clasp, the click on its closure is different in pitch to the San Martin but I can’t argue that for the price the San Martin is exceptional and Rolex by comparison is a ripoff but ask me in 10 years time which will have increased in value and it most definitely won’t be the San Martin.
@Ted_Kenzoku
5 ай бұрын
@@Luminated67 I don't think anybody will say a 250$ san martin is the same quality as rolex. but it's surprisingly closer than you may think. And rolex's quality doesn't really match the price. a lot of flaws for that price
@Luminated67
5 ай бұрын
@@Ted_Kenzoku Rolex has a cult following which the brand itself has created, how many can actually walk into a store and buy a new Rolex so all of them sell “second hand” ones at inflated prices. Completely nuts but that’s the world we live in. There’s lots of lovely expensive watches in and around the Rolex price point but very, very few increase in value like Rolex does so as an investment they aren’t that bad a choice if you can afford one.
@RenghisKhan
5 ай бұрын
@@Luminated67I consider it a risky investment. Buying rare whisky might be a better way to invest money. Anyway, I buy watches in order to wear them so they'll get scarred which would hurt the investment value. The fact that wearing them in the wrong place at the wrong time can be a 'thing' would also be an issue for me. The thing that bothers me most however is the pretence of Rolex being 'superlative' timepieces when they actually are not. If I were to spend over a thousand euro for a watch it'd be for a Sinn, a Tissot, Squale, a Longines maybe, or something along those lines, because they are just more interesting, I prefer the design, the innovations and I'd rather wind up in an unexpected conversation with someone interested in one of those than with someone who has the uncanny ability to recognise a Rolex. Different motivations, different watch, I guess. 😂
@spicydragon3881
5 ай бұрын
I have both a Rolex Sub and a San Martin equivalent. The finishing on the San Martin is VERY good, I was honestly shocked when I got it. Because of people willing to do bad things to you to rob you of your Rolex, I wear the San Martin MUCH more. But keep in mind, the San Martin would not exist if it was not for the Rolex. This was a very fair comparison, thank you.
@Ted_Kenzoku
5 ай бұрын
the people who will steal your rolex will probably still steal your san martin and only realize afterwards it's not a rolex
@Luminated67
5 ай бұрын
It’s why I wear my San Martin GMT when on my hols, it’s only a few hundred $ if someone robs you and it does indeed look the part.
@helmutsilver5006
5 ай бұрын
Just think... You might encounter people who do bad things for the lookalike Chinese Rolex on your wrist and then you suffer the indignity of being able to tell everyone you got your arm lopped off at the elbow by a Somalian with a machete for a very well finished San Martin Rolex knock off...
@eddieworley3409
5 ай бұрын
San Martin wouldn’t have to exist if Rolex could make a watch let’s just say for under a grand
@dunderhay9169
5 ай бұрын
Great video 👍. I think the problem is Rolex watches used to be utilitarian tool watches, but demand and subsequent price increases have moved them too far up market. They have improved finishing and particularly bracelets over the last 30 years, but they are still machine made mass produced watches. Ironically, San Martin probably use more hand finishing and make substantially fewer watches. The San Martin is a great watch at a low price, but I do prefer their original designs to their homages. Rolex is the original but not £8000 better.
@1SaG
5 ай бұрын
Couldn't agree more. IMO, Rolex prices should be about where Tudor prices are (at least for the stainless steel models). You'd have a very hard time explaining to an alien why a Sub Date is EUR 10,000 these days or a GMT Master II is 11,000 (MSRP, har, har!). Especially when you consider that Rolex sell more than a million watches per year and more watches than any other single Swiss "luxury" brand (I think their market share is a little over 30 percent ATM). I don't see how SM would be able to put out anywhere near those numbers... and yet.. they somehow manage to offer incredible quality for a fraction of the price. :)
@jakeizlove
5 ай бұрын
Everyone kind of forgets that Submariners or GMTs were the entry level “I’ve arrived” sports watches 20+ years ago. They held value because people were trading up for A Daytona, two tone Sub, etc… at authorized dealers. Tudor was something to pick up if a Rolex was out of your budget. Subs and GMTs didn’t become the standard until Omega (and others) started making tons of homages. Rolex’s hold their value better than most watches, but sometimes people forget the price has essentially tripled from 20 years ago.
@philspencelayh5464
5 ай бұрын
@@jakeizloveWhen I bought my Rolex about 35 years ago I was torn between the Tudor next to it in the window about £50 or so cheaper and the Explorer I eventually payed £600 for, they were both new.
@jakeizlove
5 ай бұрын
@@1SaG It’s like the saying about “a rising tide lifts all boats”. Rolex’s brand recognition, crazy prices, and value retention created markets for other luxury brands and homages.
@jakeizlove
5 ай бұрын
@@philspencelayh5464 Grabbed my Sub date in 2003. Could have picked up the “Hulk” but decided to go classic. Had no way of knowing how much that hulk would have been worth, LOL!
@jay_watch
5 ай бұрын
When one can hear the silence getting louder 🤫👏👏 great video mate, thank you for sharing
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
Thank you
@Box_13
5 ай бұрын
Impressive and cool video, thanks. You have validated some folks purchases of their San Martin watches and rubbed some of the Rolex fans fur the wrong way. You showed that quality can be found at an affordable price, but where value is another, more subjective (and maybe emotion based) aspect.
@baloosd
5 ай бұрын
You can get the same results comparing a Sugess Top Chronometer to a Rolex Daytona, or a Haofa Tourbillon to an ultra-luxury brand. Chinese manufacturing quality is world-class when it wants to be.
@technoboy21
5 ай бұрын
We really need this in 4K!
@mrmagoo.3678
5 ай бұрын
Shockingly Shocked!😮 Didn't expect it to be so close!.
@jumperpence
5 ай бұрын
I don't understand the appeal of Rolex watches when you consider truly handmade brands like Blancpain and Glashutte with just as much heritage and amazing designs.
@tonyd223
5 ай бұрын
Thanks Gary, unfortunately no suprise here. My SN019 is stunning. I had the SN017 first on NH35, but the 19 on SW200, and I expect the movement in the Rolex is better, but the cost of servicing the Rolex is more than I paid! So, it's a way of protecting money, not a watch
@antonysmith9173
5 ай бұрын
Blimey! The San Martin seems the better watch in almost every comparison! Thats quite shocking,given the vast price difference.
@אלכסס-ח5ג
5 ай бұрын
Yeah its not but the Rolex is overpriced for sure!
@tangentradio7272
5 ай бұрын
This is an example of the Quartz Revolution 2.0. This time it's about finish quality not the movement. I hope the Swiss are very worried.
@adk7962
5 ай бұрын
First, there is place in the world for both watches, but am very glad that San Martin exists for us normals. I knew San Martin would be fairly close, but I didn’t think it would be “better” in so many instances. Thanks for the great comparison!
@a0r0a7
5 ай бұрын
This video says it all. I have held many Rolexes that come into our workshop. End of the day it is a watch, it really does not feel any different to many other quality watches out there. That's why GS trounce Rolex under macro, seriously stunning finishing from GS. Rolex designs are iconic, every model is known by so many which is something other watchmakers can't really say, they have the odd few in their ranges that are known but nothing quite as iconic, maybe Omega. Great video Gary and looking forward to another homage comparison👍
@MosheFeder
5 ай бұрын
Bravo, Gary! Your willingness to look closely, see clearly, and speak plainly are everything we want from a watch reviewer. Most of us have had at least moments of suspicion that some iconic brands are over-charging for their watches. Your research proves that suspicion justified, at least when considering objective quality rather than the vagaries of fashion and reputation driven supply and demand.
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
Thank you…appreciated
@Heisenberg_747
5 ай бұрын
You are just paying the marketing money to Rolex and the actual money for watch is minimal.
@serenityinside1
2 ай бұрын
you're paying to ''be someone'' amongst your peers...at least that's what they hope. That's worth a lot to some it seems.
@frankyz007
5 ай бұрын
Thanks for this review. I would definitely buy a San Martin for a fraction of a Rolex and finally better quality made... On most of aspects they offer a better finishing than the swiss brand. Very disappointed by Rolex who IS surfing on thé famous name and too high prices reserved to richests but finally lower finish quality... Thanks Gary for this démonstration!!! 😊😊😊
@waffle911
5 ай бұрын
Now if only San Martin offered a chronometer movement for better timekeeping.
@lordcharfield4529
5 ай бұрын
@@aethelwulfwarlord1475to be honest, I have 2 watches with the SW200 - One gains 3 seconds per day, one loses 3 seconds. My Geckota Pioneer with the NH35 movement is just as reliable, so I would decide on price!
@frankyz007
5 ай бұрын
@@aethelwulfwarlord1475 yes unfortunately. Because it's for my opinion thé best choice for this model. A high beat automatic swiss movt. Therefore you are near the standard of the original. Now Rolex will probably upgrade level of finish to keep there réputation of excellence, clients and money... If they don't they are stupid!
@waffle911
5 ай бұрын
@@frankyz007 Rolex doesn't care what some company in China making $300 watches is doing, so long as they aren't putting the Rolex name on things they shouldn't be.
@laurencehogg6010
5 ай бұрын
Cheers Mr W. This aligns with my personal experience. The finishing gap has been closing for a while but every so often SM or Cronos seem to take a leap forward - it happened last year with that SM white sand dial gmt. IMO the only area Chinese watches lag slightly behind now is dial 'finishing' (for want of a better word). Its hard to describe but dials on more luxury watches pop with detail - it's almost like they're in 4k while less expensive watches are in 1080p. I don't know if it's the fineness of the dial printing alone or a combo with the crystal/coating, but I thought you could see a clear difference in printing fineness at 6 mins in this vid. I honestly reckon SM will get there though. Thanks again for doing this.
@SuperMooMooFarm
5 ай бұрын
I think it's the AR coating. A San Martin with Proxima's crystal-clear AR coating would be a dream.
@seanhickling7340
5 ай бұрын
I so hope Nico and a few of the other rediculously biased KZitemrs watch this. I would love to hear their thoughts but you can guarantee none of them will say a word.
@SampleTracks2224
5 ай бұрын
Nico will blare and scream and bits of his breakfast will fly off and land on the camera lens. So no change there
@seanhickling7340
5 ай бұрын
@@SampleTracks2224 😂
@fontyyy
4 ай бұрын
What Nico is against are the 100% fake in all but branding clomages. Something like an SN0017B is a fake Submariner. If it was a Chinese car and that close a copy of say a BMW (IE, apart from the branding, you cannot tell with the naked eye) then we'd say it was just a fake. Something like a CW C63 GMT is a genuine homage, most San Martin's are just fakes. That they're sold on the likes of AliExpress where you can buy real fakes just adds insult to injury.
@Barsomn
3 ай бұрын
@@SampleTracks2224 Thank you, I watch some of Nico's content and respect the lane he's in but needed a good laugh all the same. 😆
@uaziz7
5 ай бұрын
Great comparison shots Gary! Love your vids! 😊
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
Thank you
@SunsetSheen
5 ай бұрын
Just imagine how much more amazing San Martin quality will be in another couple years..
@dgar715
5 ай бұрын
Well done, Gary. You’ve captured the essence of both watch brands. Rolex with great history and designs REALLY riding their rep for all it’s worth; San Martin with marvelous workmanship (and subsequent value) but derivative designs. The only shame in wearing the San Martin is actively acknowledging the homage factor. One of the best values available to the proletariat!
@MisterTurtleTime
5 ай бұрын
I'm not the biggest fan of all these AliExpress brands for various reasons, but it is impressive to see how good they've become! Great video work and explanation Gary, keep up the good work!
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
Thank you
@pageophile
5 ай бұрын
Thank you for the honest and forthright review good sir!
@Andrew-yy2ye
5 ай бұрын
San Martin are brilliant for the price even not for the price congratulations san martin
@jackn4853
5 ай бұрын
The damaged index and scratched hand, totally unacceptable at any price. Like you said external damage occurs over time but not under the crystal.
@blipjockey3100
5 ай бұрын
Nicely done Gary. I think most of us would love to have a Rolex, I know I would, but just can't afford one or are not willing to put that much money on our wrist to get knocked about. It's nice to know that we can have the same look and feel at a fraction of the cost.
@JoeyTen
5 ай бұрын
It seems like we're in sort of a "wristwatch Renaissance" and I'm loving it 🙂
@redbarchetta8782
5 ай бұрын
Rolex would make a huge splash in the watch-world if they actually released an affordable watch.
@l337m4573rpyr0
5 ай бұрын
It would be interesting to see a more in-depth comparison - especially around the tactile aspects: Bracelet articulation, clasp action, bezel action, feel on wrist, etc. Also put both on a timegrapher and see how they do in a few different positions. I would hope the Rolex is better but, *how* much better would be an interesting question.
@kobusvanrensburg4092
5 ай бұрын
Not sure how much old Rolex compares to modern Rolex watches but my Sub circa 2000,isn't better finished than SM, Cronos and Seestern watches I own.
@prospect_joe9813
5 ай бұрын
Every time I tell people that my Octopus Kraken *feels* like a better watch than my late 90's rolex, they always look at me like I'm crazy.
@kobusvanrensburg4092
5 ай бұрын
@@prospect_joe9813 Exactly, mine still has a stamped clasp inner. The big thing is that in 99 I could walk into an AD, point at a watch, and then buy it.
@venkyorg
5 ай бұрын
Barring the “904L steel” claim of Rolex, San Martins is actually one that has more bang for the buck
@ccooper8785
5 ай бұрын
I have had a rolex owner witter on about the quality of the box that it was packed in as if this somehow made it a better watch. I do wish San Martin and other homage makers offered all their watches with meccaquartz movements in addition to the autos for those of us who value accuracy. I hope roly owners offer you the chance to do more comparisons with Aliexpress specials.
@robertmckinlay7242
5 ай бұрын
Thanks to your friend for loaning the Rolex. The brand as we know is the justification for the Rolex costing around thirty times the price of the San Martin. Your macro lens positions both watches on an equal footing in finish which is nice given I'll never buy a Rolex.
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
Yes, in these vids I take new fresh pictures one immediately after the other to ensure conditions are identical
@pallu83
5 ай бұрын
No mention of the movement and the regulation? On the aesthetic side, I really miss the rehaut lettering on the SM Please do this comparison about the submariner and the SN019 with pt5000
@PheasantPluckersMate
5 ай бұрын
Good for you, Gary. Great video and yep, somewhat surprising. But then production at factories in China and elsewhere has been improving exponentially, whereas I’m guessing Rolex are doing the same kind of finishing techniques for decades? The rest of the world has caught up!
@mattinmalaga
5 ай бұрын
Wonder how many of the SM hating Rolex fan boys are leaving comments from their 'made in China' iPhones? 🤔
@WorldTravelerCA
5 ай бұрын
I love San Martin watches period.
@lihanou
5 ай бұрын
Could you also do a san martin vs GS heritage model comparison? I'd like to know if I wasted money on sbga211 lol
@originalboondi
5 ай бұрын
Money never wasted buying gs.
@Me-pz5by
5 ай бұрын
😱 I didn't expect that Rolex bad finishing or maybe San Martin is doing so good 🤔
@3signets
5 ай бұрын
AWSOME detail and analysis. Thanks so much , from New Zealand
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
My pleasure
@giovannipunto8058
5 ай бұрын
No, of course you’re not trying to influence anyone and there is ABSOLUTELY NO AFFILIATE LINK IN THE DESCRIPTION!
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
This is an old watch that I think they’re almost sold out of…..I think the pictures spoke for themselves, no need to influence people and there are far worse things being done by the luxury watch traders/content creators and I think this videos shows them up…BADLY
@Uneducatedopinion57
5 ай бұрын
Great comparison
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
Thanks
@jaimemello17
5 ай бұрын
Thanks for sharing this. Appreciate the detail you put into this. Some great designs by Rolex but I have always felt there were a bit overrated. Definitely says a lot about SanMartin. For the prices of Rolexes I would rather purchase a vintage Vacheron or A Lange.
@DanMcCudden
5 ай бұрын
Seeing this leaves me thinking my Steeldive Turtle stands up to the Rolex very well. I had an Air King at one point and I remember it having very coarse finishing. Esp the brushed parts.
@bidipbo
5 ай бұрын
Beginning at 2:51, and continuing to the next shot @3:17, we get to see the difference in sheen between the 316L case of the SM vs. the sheen of the 904L Oystersteel of the Rolex on the right. Thank you for that, since I can share this to someone who believes it is an imperceptible difference. In the case of the indices comparison. I think it's fair to say that the SM indices are stamped versus the Rolex, which are flat pieces of gold that are shaped. The difference is that there is but a shallow bed that the SM lume is applied on to, leaving very little variation in application. This is because the index is stamped into shape and the metal that the lume is applied to is only just below the border of the index's raised edge. Whereas the index of the Rolex has a much deeper reservoir for holding lume that is injected. That variation in manufacturing process accounts for the difference. And likely, Rolex still does that by hand. Having said that, it just proves the superiority of BGW9 over Chromalight, given there is obviously more Chromalight being applied than BGW9.
@drdesign6886
5 ай бұрын
So what’s the point in the extra lume? Because their lume is crap they have to over compensate. And if anyone things Rolex are hand shaping the indicies on their watches needs a massive reality check. Everything is automated. Everything.
@shanephillips8735
5 ай бұрын
I'd be very surprised if the lume is hand applied on the Rolex, everything will be a machine process on mass produced models
@bidipbo
5 ай бұрын
@@shanephillips8735 The imperfections REGULARLY seen on Rolex indices cannot be attributed to automation.
@trogpo
5 ай бұрын
Now some reality-deniers will claim that this particular Rolex is in fact a fake.
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
Authenticated as genuine before my friend bought it
@trogpo
5 ай бұрын
@@musik4u343 What signs do you see?
@DrBrito
5 ай бұрын
Put a Steinhart next to them to check together! 🔥🔥🔥
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
I compared a San Martin to a Steinhart 4 years ago on my first channel that got deleted and the San Martin dominated the Steinhart.
@AdAce21
5 ай бұрын
@@ilikewatches that may have been true, and honestly still may be. However, the 39 ocean GMT titanium is an incredible watch with amazing finishing and an elabore grade SW-330 for well under $1000 (I got mine during their Black Friday sale for under $600!!). Wait, here's an idea, maybe compare the Ocean One Vintage GMT to an Explorer 2?
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
I’ll take a look, thanks
@teapeabartle4046
5 ай бұрын
This was a real eye opener for me maybe a future San Martin customer here.
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
Awesome they’ll be happy to hear that I’m sure
@dirkdutzmann9250
5 ай бұрын
Your video shows me (and many others) what no one wanted to know but was clear to everyone. Asians simply have a way of building things to perfection! Thank you for that and goodbye Rolex.😎
@watchalot919
5 ай бұрын
I own a Rolex OP and a Tudor BB36. To be honest San Martin finishing is comparable, as is the bracelet and clasp. The movement in both luxury watches is obviously far better, but apart from that it's just the name we pay for. When I look at my SN0131 I am always amazed how good it is
@bikeman123
4 ай бұрын
The movement is everything. Cheap seiko movements aren't comparable.
@watchalot919
4 ай бұрын
@@bikeman123 I own a Rolex and. Tudor, and whilst the movement is arguably the biggest aspect, it certainly isn't everything, and the ridiculous additional cost certainly isn't justified
@Cur8or88
5 ай бұрын
I always think that the printing on my San Martins could be finer. See how the Rolex has thicker hour marks with thinner minute marks in between. I like that contrast.
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
Yes I agree…there are many elements that Rolex excelled but I think that is expected…
@WatcheswithGeorge
5 ай бұрын
Yet if given the choice .. literally everyone will take the Rolex over the San Martin. Also, don't forget , the San Martin is homaging the Rolex ;) . Also Rolex doesn't bang about the Quality anywhere, you pay for brand name, heritage and for the most recognizable diver watch that has ever existed.
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
Have you visited the Rolex website, they go on about their incredible quality everywhere and they even use computer generated images to zoom in and show the quality, why, because they want their watches to appear better than they actually are
@mk84142
5 ай бұрын
I agree you pay for the heritage and brand name etc... but that should also come with very high quality to earn that heritage and also the price tag. Charging that ridiculous amount of money without the best quality is very poor. If I pay hundreds at fine dining, I expect amazing food, not just the history of the restaurant and "looking good" walking in there. Pretty sure most people paying top dollar would have very high expectations and so they should if they are paying thay much of their hard earned money.
@PaulewingStHelens
5 ай бұрын
Superb video Gary. I’m not that surprised with San Martins quality but I am shocked at how bad the Rolex is. The damage to the hand and indices is extraordinary when you think how much you pay for a Rolex.
@mattcroxford5671
5 ай бұрын
Great video and great channel. Comparison videos are always fascinating.
@Fahrenheit1407
5 ай бұрын
Can't wait to see how the rolex apologists spin this one! Clear to see there's a lot of false hype
@nintendokings
5 ай бұрын
The deeper bezel engraving looks so much nicer on the Rolex. Also, not sure they intended for a crisp line on the bezel?
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
Yes, the deeper bezel engravings are lovely
@therichieboy
5 ай бұрын
Can you please do this very same video with two different watches from each brand? Just for consistency.
@federicoprice2687
5 ай бұрын
I own a Rolex. I prefer the San Martin (I like the logo). As for value for money, no contest!!!! Rolex are ripping us off now
@gregsmith7821
5 ай бұрын
Rolex have been ripping people off since the start. They have a little crown on their watches. People automatically think they are getting the king of watches but actually, Rolex are the king of marketing.
Good video Gary, 100% food for thought 🙂👍... The trusty watch price 'scale of diminishing returns' just took a sharper upward curve in my mind. How does the San Martin compare to some other luxury watches I wonder, like the SeaQ and the Tudors I wonder which they also homage. That would be great to see how much better or worse... if you ever get the chance!
@originalboondi
5 ай бұрын
Have a sm ranger clone and I can say without a doubt it is as good as a tudor version. Had both side by side under a 15X loop and there was no difference to be seen. Only negative for sm was the nh35 instead of eta 2824. Saving over 3k made me smile though....
@gavinwilliams1687
5 ай бұрын
Definitely not £9k better!
@gavinwilliams1687
5 ай бұрын
@WetLettuce-kc2qm I was just going by the retail prices stated in the video Rolex 9350 San Martin 300, granted it was in dollars but a difference 9k, oh and 50.
@Roy-vh9rp
5 ай бұрын
This was an eye-opener. Also, be aware that the newer Rolexes with the 32xx caliber have unresolved issues. The watches may slow down and lose amplitude after about a year of daily use.
@Mister_Phafanapolis
5 ай бұрын
But but but, I thought these luxury Swiss watches are supposed to be generational purchases that’ll last a thousand lifetimes and just keep ticking?!
@samwang5831
5 ай бұрын
Haha, if it were a SM some people would say ’you get what you pay for‘
@onyekaonyia8395
5 ай бұрын
I’m not trying to hold fort for Rolex, but your comparison is somewhat unfair. You’re comparing a 2 year old Rolex to a box fresh San Martin. That Rolex I suspect has been polished in its 2 years of being worn; the bracelet clasp is completely devoid of any scratches. The only way that’s possible is if it’s unworn or if the watch has been repolished… which would completely render your comparison void as it’s no longer the factory polishing on the Rolex.
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
The Rolex has one previous owner and there was evidence it had been worn all over the watch which tells me it had not been refinished. The hands and indexes certainly couldn’t have been worked on
@A_Friendly_Robot
5 ай бұрын
@@ilikewatches "The hands and indexes certainly couldn’t have been worked on" - If it's been serviced (i.e. the movement and dial taken out of the case) then there is not insignificant likelihood that the hands and indices could have been scratched.
@Ted_Kenzoku
5 ай бұрын
@@A_Friendly_Robot you don't service a 2year old rolex. Unless it had a defect from the factory but then it passing QC is very low
@erikknudsen2971
5 ай бұрын
Not surprised given that the chinese manufacturing is getting better and better. And, leys face it, about 80% of the price of a rolex is tied up in advertising or marketing. I dint think theres more than a few thousand dollars of parts in a rolex, but they charge 5x on that at least.
@steaknzp7855
5 ай бұрын
Between the scratch on the hour hand and the mark on the index I feel like this watch has had a movement-out service. It’s too new to need a full service, and I don’t think a regulation requires the movement to come out so maybe there was some sort of warranty work done on this.
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
The watch is showing signs of being worn for 2 years so it doesn’t look to me like any work was done, if it was well then it isn’t obvious
@4034miguel
5 ай бұрын
My deal breaker is, if I am correct, the SM is an office GMT. The Rolex traveler GMT is easier to set in every type of use. Fortunately Miyota came with the traveler 9075 GMT, so there are now other good brands that are taking advantage of this at a fraction of the price.
@philspencelayh5464
5 ай бұрын
Interesting video. I dont care for the design of either of these (same really). The San Martin finishing is very impressive. I have no hands on experience of the Hangzhou 6460 but do have of Rolex so I'm guessing that as a timepiece the Rolex will win hands down. I'm quite likely to get a San Martin on the strength of this video if I find the right design/movement combination.
@enriquesanders
5 ай бұрын
I own a Submariner bought new and directly from an AD and the rehaut doesn’t line up with the dial markers at 12. I can send you a picture if it helps.
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
Would love to see it thanks oldmantimegary@gmail.com
@sinjinadams2862
5 ай бұрын
Brilliant video! I love comparison videos like this. There was nothing shocking about this comparison to me. Over the last 2 or 3 years, San Martin has upped their game tremendously. So have other brands like Cronos, which I actually like better than San Martin. I think the one thing left that San Martin could really improve on is the bezel insert. It really doesn't compare to a Rolex.
@andrewd2012
5 ай бұрын
Brilliant video, confirming what we all know really. Even giving some consideration for age difference (how would 2yr old sm compare) and the steel differences (although purported to be harder to polish by R I don’t believe there is any metallurgical reason it should be and with higher chromium content it’s likely to have a higher achievable polish) the sm is really impressive. The question left over is whether Rolex’s old designs and name is worth the price to buyer? For very expensive watches I think there has to be an emotional/sentimental component, some personal providence to elevate it.
@S-Ltd1000
5 ай бұрын
Rolex fanboys won't like this.
@JohnDoe-pm9cg
4 ай бұрын
Awesome Job. I love comparsion Videos. Rolex's Design influenced the World of watches so hard, but they are never worth that much. Cant wait to get my 1st SM. TY
@ender1077
5 ай бұрын
Not the results I was expecting, and kind of sad when you think about it. I was never in the market for a watch in Rolex's price range though.
@Emaratilfy
5 ай бұрын
The only thing Rolex has going for it is their inhouse movements. They're accurate and reliable (but also expensive to service). I wish San Martin would use Miyota 9000-series for their GMTs. Too many NH movements out there
@Mister_Phafanapolis
5 ай бұрын
You mean Seiko’s iN hOuSe cALiBeR?!?!
@Emaratilfy
5 ай бұрын
@@Mister_Phafanapolis you're a tool if you think a caliber 3235 isn't better than an NH35. You can hate on Rolex but just don't be stupid.
@Emaratilfy
5 ай бұрын
@@Mister_Phafanapolis you're saying a 3235 isn't any better than an NH35, or what are you trying to say?
@Mister_Phafanapolis
5 ай бұрын
@@Emaratilfy More or less, yes, I am saying the Seiko NH35 and the Rolex iN hOuSe cALiBeR are roughly equivalent in performance, and any substantive differences and not at all worth the 10, 25, 50 or 100x multiplication of the price. I am a Swiss watch and luxury watch industry hater. The world of whoreology would be significantly further ahead if the Swatch Group didn’t “save” the Swiss manufacturing and rebadge it with a veneer of faux craftsmanship and exclusivity. Modern Swiss “manufacturing” is just building model parts kits out of south East Asian produced parts.
@jonathanyng
5 ай бұрын
@@Emaratilfy 3285 and nh34?
@peachlandtaxi919
5 ай бұрын
My SN121 in steel has the best end links in the business plus a matte bezel ....so much value !
@Hemebean
5 ай бұрын
Shots fired. It's the watch version of The Emporer's New Clothes!
@jacc88888
5 ай бұрын
Great comment 😂
@masuz3972
5 ай бұрын
I wouldn't say the San Martin has a better bezel insert, even with the fuzzier color transition. IMO, the embedded bezel markers look way better than the applied lumed markers.
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
Yes overall the Rolex is better
@younusimam-thesalamproject6340
5 ай бұрын
What i long suspected: SM and others like Proxima are offering pretty much 99% of the spec of these big brands. I might never buy a luxury watch and im probably happier that way.
@hugohugo37
5 ай бұрын
I get why we don't like stealing others' designs. The creators of original designs should be compensated for their work and they'll go on to use that money to make more creative stuff. But....the submariner design is 70 years old. Rolex doesn't exactly innovate anymore, do they? They've done little tweaks to the same watches year after year. Their movements? Sure good quality but aren't they really just a nice version of 100 year old technology? Why do they deserve a $10,000 premium? Microbrands that actually come up with NEW designs are putting more effort in.
@WatchtheTime
5 ай бұрын
Good video mate and I complete agree with you on San Martin. For the money, they have become undeniable 👍👍
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
Thanks bud!
@mell3109
5 ай бұрын
San Martin hands down. I have a Rolex and a San Martin. The San Martin TC4 is a titanium watch and I’m stunned at the quality
@sinjinadams2862
5 ай бұрын
I completely agree! I own the San Martin and am wearing it right now. A Titanium Rolex Submariner has always been my dream/fantasy watch so when I saw the San Martin, I bought it immediately. I absolutely love it!
@GGG0217
5 ай бұрын
The finishing on the San Martin is no doubt top notch, especially considering the price. Personally however I buy watches for their original designs, longevity and value retension as I am not rich. Rolex designed that watch, tick. The bezel is infilled with platimum and the inidicies are white gold, the bracelet have cermaic inserts for better wear, the steel used is more corrosion resistent and look brighter to the eye, all those points aid longevity, tick. The value of the rolex increases after purchase in many cases and over time is an asset, tick. When you wear the watch you don't see macro and you ruin the finishing which gets refinished regardless, so is this test really relevent? It was interesting as a barometer for the San Martins good work, but in the real world, as a tangible item, the rolex is the overpriced winner and theres no real comparison. This all coming from someone who isn't a fanboy may I add.
@syniekos
5 ай бұрын
Great video - pictures clearly paint a thousand words !
@BORN2LOSE13
5 ай бұрын
All my San Martin watches are amazing and I own Rolex, Tudor and Omegas
@MrJumpol48
5 ай бұрын
how San Martin compare to Cronos or sugess ?? Do you have any opinion?
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
Cronos build quality is excellent…close to San Martin…I’m not as familiar with Sugess but I have seen a couple and they were also close!
@tyroneswift4004
5 ай бұрын
If I were interested in spending what I consider a large amount of money, Rolex wouldn't be my choice as they look plain to me. I own some of San Martin's original designs and I believe they are excellent, but I wouldn't buy their Rolex homage either.
@garybliss5673
5 ай бұрын
Gary -- Rolex were the original mid-market tool watches and it is very hard to argue that San Martin hasn't picked up that mantle. The worst part about them is that they are so reasonably priced, relative to quality, that it is hard to stop buying them. i'm at five just now, including a new SN005 v4 GMT with the Hangzhou 6460, *not* Seiko NH34, movement . . . and its lovely sapphire bezel and box crystal. Probably the only reason i do not have more is their broad market response embracing the NH35/34 movements (which i have had bad experiences with) and no-dates (i prefer dates). Still, they are stunning -- gary ray
@melvinphillips786
5 ай бұрын
I own three Rolex, three Tudor and a number of Omega and the Rolex’s are a poorer quality. We all know it’s just the name and the marketing ploys of the house of Rolex that drive the prices, personally, I prefer Omega. Oh, and I do own two San Martins and they are of excellent quality and I enjoy wearing them.
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
This comment prompted me to make a video on my second channel which is now live!!! Sorry I didn’t mention you by name in that video…I should have!
@andyyoung6073
4 ай бұрын
You need to make the San Martin images as sharp as the Rolex ones. This is not a like for like comparison!
@ilikewatches
4 ай бұрын
They were taken at the same time with the same camera under the same conditions, stop looking for bias when it’s not there
@bobbob-xf3yg
5 ай бұрын
Rattle the cages. I walk down Dublin Grafton street every morning and compare my sm's with the posh watch jeweller. There is no difference in construction quality from 1 foot away
@_RJ_Z
5 ай бұрын
Yeah, youre pretty much paying most of the price in heritage, materials, branding and status with Rolex. Rolex makes a great watch, but for the price and the time you have to wait…. Nope, better options out there. And damn, those numberings on the Rolex bezel is perfect!
@buttrogers2407
5 ай бұрын
It’s as I’ve concluded already. There comes a point where no matter, the cost, labour skill comes into play when it comes to fit and finish and some brands on that point like San Martin can compete with the best, to the point they are finite in differences. So the only question for the buyer is really the motivators for selecting which brand to go for. As a person who actually wears their watches in all sorts of environments, I would choose the San Martin as I’m going to be just as cautious as I would wearing the Rolex, But I’m going to be less nervous about those precautions going wrong and less out of pocket if I need to repair. But on the other hand if you buy a watch with a mind to sell and make or certainly not lose money, then Rolex I guess is the way to go. Though for a man of limited means like myself, it would be sitting in a safe waiting for that sale time to come, and that’s not really the point of a watch which is to enjoy and wear.
@WatchesOnWood
5 ай бұрын
want to do a comparison with a 116503? I think the only homage that you could compare it to would be one that you dont have on your channel.
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
You have one? 😳 wow! Can you email me oldmantimegary@gmail.com so we can discuss thanks!
@אלכסס-ח5ג
5 ай бұрын
This is what happens when a company knows their watches are gonna sell no metter what.
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
True
@grahamliggat7193
5 ай бұрын
G thank you - good balanced and objective presentation with obviously v interesting and surprising results. Nice too that you’ve had such good mileage out of the Rolex. Presumably you’ve just the Hydraulic Press channel test left? 😉 G
@ilikewatches
5 ай бұрын
Lol
@MrsVanB
5 ай бұрын
Genuine question, have any of you had your SM watch serviced at a jewelry store? If so, would you mind sharing what the costs were? I might consider getting a SM DJ homage for daily wear.
@MyRetroWatches
5 ай бұрын
Nice work mate
@slackdark
5 ай бұрын
Excellent video. This just show what the watch industry is about: selling a brand based on history/emotions. You just showed that: a) if you remove the logo, watches could be so much cheaper b) investing in watches is not worth in my opinion
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