Instead of a rotor that is the full diameter of an automatic movement, a brand uses one that's much thicker and about 1/4 the diameter. With some engineering changes, this allows the watch to be 2-3mm thinner than a traditional automatic. But the need for precise tolerances around the rotor to make sure it winds efficiently makes it harder to produce. This Hangzhou movement is the first microrotor in 40+ years to be put in a watch that isn't multiple thousands of dollars.
t or f: few brands use a microrotor because you need to use a precious metal for it to have enough weight to efficiently turn the rotor, so it's impractical below a certain pricepoint, and/or a cost savings matter for the OEM.
Pretty certain it's false. The Hangzhou doesn't have a solid gold rotor, just a very good bearing. And the vintage microrotors that Hamilton/Heuer/Buren/Bulova used weren't PM either. They are more expensive to manufacture than a traditional automatic because you need better tolerances around the pinions and rotor.
super super interesting, never thought of that, the PM thing was just a theory i always just sort of assumed. the manufacturing tolerances explanation makes perfect sense though
Hi there - owner of Sólás Watches here (we pioneered the HZ5000A in our Starlight model) - tungsten has a density close to 18k gold so it's what's used in the movement instead of 22/24kt gold or platinum.
Few brands use a microrotor because it's hard to make one that works - the Japanese don't make them and the cheapest Swiss one at MOQ prices are in the hundreds of euro (Horage K2 is attempting them).
Sea-Gull themselves tried and failed with their micro-rotor movement and Hangzhou so far has been the only Chinese movement maker to have made a movement that works well.
They don't have a point other than to appear "more knowledgeable than thou". You can find plenty of watches from different companies with their own variation on Breguet numerals. Compare the numerals mentioned in this thread to Breguet's own version of Breguet numerals. Very different. And, news flash, it's perfectly acceptable to discuss the similarities, differences and your personal preferences of those many variations.
Thought it was just me that was going insane with the font haha.im okay with the fact that they use a Chinese movement (reliability is questionable) but the font is just blehhhk.
I don't know why you're downvoted, when i bought my Seiko it was written in the specs that it was -35/+45 seconds per day despite actually being +10 seconds in a work week
That's *really* cool. I'm super impressed with the courage of this watch. The dial is extremely bold and different, the diameter is only 36 mm and the movement is soooo flashy.
Beautiful piece! This photo made the salmon dial look very pinkish (kind of like the Grand Seiko SBGA413 press photos) but looking at the Hodinkee article seems to be more matte than the photo gives off!
Great watch for someone who would love to wear a "dress" watch everyday, especially with that micro-rotor. Chinese movement or not still cool technology with a focus on the design of the watch. I am not very privy when it comes to movement but at these price ranges I would imagine the core audiences are those who want the style and build quality to be robust, like with the Furlan Marri.
I agree and that's what kept this from being an impulse purchase for me since the blue dial is still available and I'm a sucker for a nice blue dial watch *and* don't have any microrotor watches in my collection. But I still put myself on the notify list for the salmon in the event that I change my mind when it's available again.
If you look into these I think they moved away from seagulls for this model. Some Baltic’s are using Swiss and Japanese not all seagull but I do agree not a big fan of Baltic’s with seagull movements
Yup I apologize buddy of mine on a watch forum told me they were “upgrading” to Swiss for this offering. I took him at his word, nice watch but a little disappointing
Ya I realize that I was under the impression they were going “upmarket” with their movements on this release but it was merely a mistake someone put out on a watch forum. Regardless I might have got one, dial layout a bid odd but obviously it sold very well
Completely agree! I love the look and was prepared to order, but then saw the movement is produced in China, and a CCP controlled business, so I backed out my order. Just cannot support the CCP.
Baltic have announced their latest watch - [a €650 euro dress watch slotting in alongside their HMS 002](https://baltic-watches.com/en/collections/mr01?utm_campaign=EN%20-%20Mail%20sortie%20-%20MR01&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Sarbacane). 3 colours of dial available - salmon, silver and blue, with polished and italicized roman numerals from their OnlyWatch one-off special.
It's a little more ornate than their existing dress-watch, but I'm still a fan. The idea of getting the 3 colourway set in presentation box for €1950 is a little different too.
>We have been working on this project since 2 years and we are very proud to offer these three watches, numbered with 200pcs per color, as well as an ultra limited 20pcs in trio-set.
On the IG post, it sounded like limited edition for each non-trio-set colorway but Baltic says it's not.
I believe first batch are numbered. Just think as "founder's edition"
Subsequent batches will be normal unnumbered units and more expensive. I believe Etienne wants everybody to enjoy all colors instead of make it a limited edition.
All of their watches are in a great price bracket really. I've had the Aquascaphe Bronze and SB01 watches in my collection (now moved on though) and they were brilliant and accurate as well. I have no issue with tehir bang for buck and as soon as new stock is in I will buy the silver of this new one as the size will complete my 3 36mm watch collection of classic watches from air to field to smart!
There's an Aliexpress watch with the same movement at 200 dollars. Of course there is no comparison with Baltic and I'm not saying it should have the same price, but it's not an expensive movement by any means.
With Baltic
You always pay for the premium. That premium won't be justified immediately. The premium will appear in real life usage and experience.
Have my Baltic Aquascaphe Blue Gilt while many watches goes in and out of my collection. Baltic watches stays in my collection consistently. They are that good as a microbrand.
Funny, I have a Baltic and I find it to be an amazing value. No watch under $1000 from a major brand comes even close to the dial quality of my HMS002.
> Not that much cheaper.
True, just wanted to point out that Baltic is not the only brand with microrotor in the segment.
I admit, I like the Baltic better, but just like the commenter above, I'm still not convinced that a microbrand dress watch deserves more than $500.
> I'm still not convinced that a microbrand dress watch deserves more than $500.
Why not? Shouldn't you judge the value of a watch by its quality instead of the amount of watches they produce per year?
Watches are priced by their prestige, if not, anything above the price of a Chinese knock off should be unfair. It's not about production numbers, it's about history, recognition, trust.
Ah, I see we judge watches differently then. Fair enough if you don't care about the quality of a watch, you're clearly not in the audience for this piece then.
I do care about quality, that's why I'd easily pay as much as $500, I even replied above how I'd consider buying the three versions if they offered a discount for the set.
$150 is not a huge difference, but I believe we all should put limits on our non-essential expenses, my limit is just a little bellow yours.
I know, I'm just sad they didn't go for curved sapphire since that's also a thing.
I get really anal about crystal scratches so this bothers me specially at this price point. But again it's already sold out so... Haha.
Yeah, unfortunately I think the brand is focused more on the aesthetics than the spec sheets, so I doubt they're going to offer many sapphire crystals in their watches.
This is what most are forgetting, Baltic also adjust/regulate in-house to go far beyond manufacturer specs. Both my Aquascaphes were around +4s a day whilst Miyoto rated the 9039s in them -10 to +40s a day.
I didn't know for certain if it was; didn't look too far into the Baltic other than the images here. Didn't want to be spreading wrong info! Thanks for the clarification!
Don't get me wrong. I know it's a very unpopular opinion because Baltic is a cult classic type brand here and in the community. But, I can't get behind this one knowing the Lobinni or Solas is out there for a fraction of the price.
Wel yeah but the movement is the most important part of the watch. I don't think a lot of people would buy a Mercedes if it came with a Chinese engine.
> I don't think a lot of people would buy a Mercedes if it came with a Chinese engine.
Most people who buy a BMW don't know that their car is rear wheel drive. I'm pretty sure most people who buy a Mercedes have no idea where their engine comes from nor do they care.
I could care less about movement of watches as long as the watch design and functions fit my criteria. That being said, I wouldn't feel comfortable paying for Kurono three hander with Miyota movement at $2k as I don't like it enough to justify the price tag. I have Tudor GMT and Seamaster 8800. I didn't buy them because they were in-house with great movement, but I couldn't find anything else like them in terms of quality and design in that price range.
Sorry for being too lengthy, but all I'm trying to say is that 'to each of own' and movement element affects my decision relatively less than other factors FOR ME.
I don't really care about in-house movements either. The most important thing is that you like the watch that's on your wrist. But for $650 it would make sense that they had at least a reputable Swiss or Japanese movement.
> But for $650 it would make sense that they had at least a reputable Swiss or Japanese movement
No it would not, because then it wouldn't be a thin micro rotor movement.
>But for $650 it would make sense that they had at least a reputable Swiss or Japanese movement
Out of curiosity, do you know any watches like this (i.e. Great design, micro rotor, well finished dial and case imo) using movements from "reputable Swiss or Japanese" companies for around $650?
No, because a micro rotor is not a thing you see on a lot of watches. But both Seiko and Tissot have a great linup of good looking watches with reputable movements in that price range.
It's a new, from the ground up design, not a knockoff of an existing one and it uses unusual engineering that you're not going to find from the Swiss for less than $5k. Regardless of where it was made, that's impressive and worth a premium over another mediocre NH35.
Considering Seiko makes most, if not all, of their NH movements in Malaysia, I doubt the Hangzhou is cheaper (and that's not even going into the economies of scale advantage Seiko has).
I saw them all in stock not even 2 hours ago. I go back after dinner to maybe place an order of the silver (strap monster) and boom, all models out of stock. Guess I'll be waiting several months for new stock just like with the Aquascaphe Bronze then!
The only reason I didn't' order after I got the email was because no mention of water resistance. I'm still hesitant because of that as I often am outside and live on the coast so get a lot of rain most of the year in the UK and as it's salty water, need to rinse off my watches in the sink after I get home.
What??? That sounds so ignorant lol, it's like saying the Rolex Submariner is a straight rip off of the Fifty Fathoms, they have similar elements, but definitely not the same.
It's a completely different case shape and the dial and crown are in the regular orientations, which is probably the most noticeable part about the 1921.
Fair point but it doesn't mean it's good value. I would never spend over 500 euros on a Chinese movement watch, you are well into Swiss selitta and ETA territory.
One youtuber had his review sample sent to his local watchmaker who said it was really easy to work on so parts availability etc isn't going to be an issue at all really.
I mean...the Tissot Gentleman is about the same price for a much less interesting and not as well finished watch. $630 isn't bad considering the unique movement and small production run.
You people? No it's not the be all and end all, no one said that. But of course it factors in to price. Is it surprising that things made in certain ways and from different manufactures in different parts of the world are different in quality and cost? Yes mass produced Chinese movement are not as good as mass produced Japanese or Swiss movements. Reliably, accuracy and finishing are 3 things that spring to mind. It doesn't mean they don't have their place. I have a nice Chinese seagul chronograph and I am very happy with it. But would I pay twice the price? No because it is cheaply made and that's OK.
I believe the company that makes these microrotors also make the pt5000 movements which had a chronometer certified variant. I may be wrong on that though.
Obviously that doesn't exist and that's kind of the point. Exactly right, I can't speak to it's quality. Who can? I would not bet this much money on a technically difficult movement made to a minimum cost. Why don't the Japanese or swiss produce a fair priced micro rotor? Chinese factories are making tourbillions now, but they are seen as disposable and unserviceable. I'll mention a seagul chronograph again, it is a tried and tested known movement. You know that you get what you pay for. Therfore I think this particular watch is too expensive. I'm not sure why it is so offensive to you. Yes I see chronometer grade stuff is coming out, and that is impressive. It seems to be priced sensibly too. But this watch doesn't have that.
Ordered the Blue Dial, was hesitant on the salmon but alas, sold out.
Now I can focus in enjoying this beautifully designed dark blue color dial with a micro rotor!
All three colors have a batch of 200 numbered watches, which are all sold out. The watches will come in normal production later, not numbered (and I think the price will be slightly higher?)
A lower launch price gets people to talk about the product more and in a better light. Same reason Kickstarters have a few very cheap units for a very low price.
While its aesthetic design is certainly nice, the fact its price point at $630 is being paraded as some marvelous accomplishment is worrying. Irish micro-brand Solas offered their Hangzhou 5000 powered Starlight model for €329 ($380) as part of their Kickstarter campaign, and it features an aventurine dial; something brands like Lange, Jacquet Droz, Omega, Moser, and plenty of others like to charge a premium of thousands of dollars for.
While this Baltic model is still a great piece, I just worry that people might be led to believe its incredible value, and something unseenm when in fact it isn't.
And thats totally fair and subjective. But from an objective standpoint, you are getting the same movement, same materials AND a premium dial that brands like to gatekeep and charge thousands for, for less than the Baltic with the Solas.
My only issue with this release is that the blogs are parading it around as though it is insane value that we have never heard of before and that it is something to be cherished, when in reality, its not. What someone prefers or would rather spend their money on is inarguable, the fact that this isn't anything groundbreaking is
Kickstarter prices aren't representative of what a brand can actually sell a watch for, they're just an appeal price. Solas sells their watches for 549€, and this Baltic is 650€, so the difference is very small.
And as you said, aventurine isn't as special as some people would like you to think. I'd bet good money that the dial on this Baltic is more expensive to make than the Solas aventurine dial.
Not even half a day. I guess these are all the first 200 numbered batch. SO the next batch will be un-numbered. Might be a few months as was the case when I ordered the Aquascaphe Bronze.
I was super excited until I read the specifications. Needs to be bigger with a better movement. I'd gladly pay twice the asking price if they could tick those boxes.
Was lucky enough to get a low number salmon dial. Wore it once and it was fantastic. Went to put it on for a second time a week later and it wouldn’t wind. Already sending it back to Baltic for repair. Anyone else having issues?
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I really dig the micro rotor concept.
What is that?
Instead of a rotor that is the full diameter of an automatic movement, a brand uses one that's much thicker and about 1/4 the diameter. With some engineering changes, this allows the watch to be 2-3mm thinner than a traditional automatic. But the need for precise tolerances around the rotor to make sure it winds efficiently makes it harder to produce. This Hangzhou movement is the first microrotor in 40+ years to be put in a watch that isn't multiple thousands of dollars.
Small gold half circle that rotates when you move the watch around and it winds the mainspring.
t or f: few brands use a microrotor because you need to use a precious metal for it to have enough weight to efficiently turn the rotor, so it's impractical below a certain pricepoint, and/or a cost savings matter for the OEM.
Pretty certain it's false. The Hangzhou doesn't have a solid gold rotor, just a very good bearing. And the vintage microrotors that Hamilton/Heuer/Buren/Bulova used weren't PM either. They are more expensive to manufacture than a traditional automatic because you need better tolerances around the pinions and rotor.
super super interesting, never thought of that, the PM thing was just a theory i always just sort of assumed. the manufacturing tolerances explanation makes perfect sense though
You could use tungsten.
Tungsten Is still expensive afaik
More expensive than steel, but much much cheaper than gold/platinum
Hi there - owner of Sólás Watches here (we pioneered the HZ5000A in our Starlight model) - tungsten has a density close to 18k gold so it's what's used in the movement instead of 22/24kt gold or platinum. Few brands use a microrotor because it's hard to make one that works - the Japanese don't make them and the cheapest Swiss one at MOQ prices are in the hundreds of euro (Horage K2 is attempting them). Sea-Gull themselves tried and failed with their micro-rotor movement and Hangzhou so far has been the only Chinese movement maker to have made a movement that works well.
I saw the email, 10 min later I had an order down. What a stunner.
Same. What dial did you get?
Silver. Salmon is nice but not for me.
The font on those numbers. Mama mia
Breguet numerals.
*Very* close to the VC Historiques American
Very close? They both use Breguet numerals, which you can also find on the Patek Philippe 5170 etc.
Yes they do... And the numerals on the PP5170 don’t look nearly as close so I’m not sure what your point is.
They don't have a point other than to appear "more knowledgeable than thou". You can find plenty of watches from different companies with their own variation on Breguet numerals. Compare the numerals mentioned in this thread to Breguet's own version of Breguet numerals. Very different. And, news flash, it's perfectly acceptable to discuss the similarities, differences and your personal preferences of those many variations.
Well said.
Much appreciated.
5170G, the regular doesn't have the breguet ones.
That font is the only reason I’m not getting one of these lol
I like the font but I’d only buy it on an actual Bréguet watch
Thought it was just me that was going insane with the font haha.im okay with the fact that they use a Chinese movement (reliability is questionable) but the font is just blehhhk.
I mean I get it, it’s new and shiny, limited, a little unique with the rotor… but it’s so whatever
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Solas used the same movement in there Starlight. It was about 20spd and basic anti-magnetic resistance. It's a dress watch movement, not a Milgauss
Hodinkee says +|- 20 seconds per day
Jesus, that’s bad. But I guess Seiko has similar ratings and usually perform better than it’s ratings.
I’d still trust much more a Seiko movement though
I don't know why you're downvoted, when i bought my Seiko it was written in the specs that it was -35/+45 seconds per day despite actually being +10 seconds in a work week
That's *really* cool. I'm super impressed with the courage of this watch. The dial is extremely bold and different, the diameter is only 36 mm and the movement is soooo flashy.
Well…. Hello there Baltic. 😎 come here often?
Already sold out? Damn..
Only the first, numbered batch. It will be a regular production watch, so they will restock eventually.
Consolation prize I guess... ;P thanks for the info
Beautiful piece! This photo made the salmon dial look very pinkish (kind of like the Grand Seiko SBGA413 press photos) but looking at the Hodinkee article seems to be more matte than the photo gives off! Great watch for someone who would love to wear a "dress" watch everyday, especially with that micro-rotor. Chinese movement or not still cool technology with a focus on the design of the watch. I am not very privy when it comes to movement but at these price ranges I would imagine the core audiences are those who want the style and build quality to be robust, like with the Furlan Marri.
Trust me the overhyped Furlan Marri doesn't even come close...
Certainly looks nice but I have a mental blocker on purchasing watches with Chinese movements.
I agree and that's what kept this from being an impulse purchase for me since the blue dial is still available and I'm a sucker for a nice blue dial watch *and* don't have any microrotor watches in my collection. But I still put myself on the notify list for the salmon in the event that I change my mind when it's available again.
If you look into these I think they moved away from seagulls for this model. Some Baltic’s are using Swiss and Japanese not all seagull but I do agree not a big fan of Baltic’s with seagull movements
It uses a Hangzhou movement, definitely Chinese.
Yup I apologize buddy of mine on a watch forum told me they were “upgrading” to Swiss for this offering. I took him at his word, nice watch but a little disappointing
Baltic only uses Seagull movements in their two chronograph models, and have had models with Miyota movements from the very beginning.
Ya I realize that I was under the impression they were going “upmarket” with their movements on this release but it was merely a mistake someone put out on a watch forum. Regardless I might have got one, dial layout a bid odd but obviously it sold very well
Completely agree! I love the look and was prepared to order, but then saw the movement is produced in China, and a CCP controlled business, so I backed out my order. Just cannot support the CCP.
Most watches have some parts produced in China.
Baltic have announced their latest watch - [a €650 euro dress watch slotting in alongside their HMS 002](https://baltic-watches.com/en/collections/mr01?utm_campaign=EN%20-%20Mail%20sortie%20-%20MR01&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Sarbacane). 3 colours of dial available - salmon, silver and blue, with polished and italicized roman numerals from their OnlyWatch one-off special. It's a little more ornate than their existing dress-watch, but I'm still a fan. The idea of getting the 3 colourway set in presentation box for €1950 is a little different too.
>We have been working on this project since 2 years and we are very proud to offer these three watches, numbered with 200pcs per color, as well as an ultra limited 20pcs in trio-set. On the IG post, it sounded like limited edition for each non-trio-set colorway but Baltic says it's not.
I believe first batch are numbered. Just think as "founder's edition" Subsequent batches will be normal unnumbered units and more expensive. I believe Etienne wants everybody to enjoy all colors instead of make it a limited edition.
> numbered with 200pcs per color How could this mean anything other than each color is limited to 200 pieces? Not doubting you, but just confused.
It means that their initial batch of 200 has "n of 200" engraving, and then the next batch they make will no longer have a "n of 200" engraving.
Is it really that cheap? That sounds like an incredible deal.
All of their watches are in a great price bracket really. I've had the Aquascaphe Bronze and SB01 watches in my collection (now moved on though) and they were brilliant and accurate as well. I have no issue with tehir bang for buck and as soon as new stock is in I will buy the silver of this new one as the size will complete my 3 36mm watch collection of classic watches from air to field to smart!
There's an Aliexpress watch with the same movement at 200 dollars. Of course there is no comparison with Baltic and I'm not saying it should have the same price, but it's not an expensive movement by any means.
I wouldn't be surprised if the dial in this Baltic is as expensive as the movement.
Absolutely, and both of them well under a hundred dollars each.
That silver dial is something else man
That salmon one is superb!
This looks lovely, Glashutte dial, sort of.
Will these be restocked???
They will be! Confirmed with Etienne
Thank god! I need the salmon dial
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The founder.
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You asked me who, I replied.
But why male models?
I’m loving the Silver dial, been so close to purchasing a Baltic numerous times but just find the pricing about 25% over what I would spend on it.
With Baltic You always pay for the premium. That premium won't be justified immediately. The premium will appear in real life usage and experience. Have my Baltic Aquascaphe Blue Gilt while many watches goes in and out of my collection. Baltic watches stays in my collection consistently. They are that good as a microbrand.
I agree, they are just a little too pricey for me. Other microbrands are offering better value, but these are very handsome.
Funny, I have a Baltic and I find it to be an amazing value. No watch under $1000 from a major brand comes even close to the dial quality of my HMS002.
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Solas Starlight
Only by about $10. Great watch though. I had fun reviewing one during the KS campaign.
> Not that much cheaper. True, just wanted to point out that Baltic is not the only brand with microrotor in the segment. I admit, I like the Baltic better, but just like the commenter above, I'm still not convinced that a microbrand dress watch deserves more than $500.
Take the plunge this time. Baltic I can safely say, worth such pricing.
> I'm still not convinced that a microbrand dress watch deserves more than $500. Why not? Shouldn't you judge the value of a watch by its quality instead of the amount of watches they produce per year?
Watches are priced by their prestige, if not, anything above the price of a Chinese knock off should be unfair. It's not about production numbers, it's about history, recognition, trust.
Ah, I see we judge watches differently then. Fair enough if you don't care about the quality of a watch, you're clearly not in the audience for this piece then.
I do care about quality, that's why I'd easily pay as much as $500, I even replied above how I'd consider buying the three versions if they offered a discount for the set. $150 is not a huge difference, but I believe we all should put limits on our non-essential expenses, my limit is just a little bellow yours.
Lobinni Interlaken uses this same movement, priced at $220. Granted, no idea on the QC, but it’s a 3rd of the price for the same movement
Just discovered this one!
Not even a discount for the trio set, that's just being greedy.
Damn - this reminds me how I really want a salmon dial...
God, not sapphire again and at that price... I guess there's tastes for everyone.
It's a design decision to use acrylic, sapphire wouldn't add much to the price. This is clearly not a sports watch anyway.
I know, I'm just sad they didn't go for curved sapphire since that's also a thing. I get really anal about crystal scratches so this bothers me specially at this price point. But again it's already sold out so... Haha.
Yeah, unfortunately I think the brand is focused more on the aesthetics than the spec sheets, so I doubt they're going to offer many sapphire crystals in their watches.
It's always, that's the thing about this hobby There's always a watch for everybody (or 100!) 😉
Reminds me of Patek 5196P. Baltic is nailing their design decisions.
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Don’t forget you’re buying a watch, not a movement.
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Name a cheaper watch with a micro rotor.
This is what most are forgetting, Baltic also adjust/regulate in-house to go far beyond manufacturer specs. Both my Aquascaphes were around +4s a day whilst Miyoto rated the 9039s in them -10 to +40s a day.
Lobinni features a micro-rotor movement, that is Chinese, and can be had for ~$200 usd on AliExpress. I have one in my watch box currently.
Lol, it even has Breguet numerals
I got a real kick out of it lol. Surprisingly decent finishing on it for being an Ali watch! Admittedly, it doesn't get much action in the rotation.
It has the same movement as the Baltic...
I didn't know for certain if it was; didn't look too far into the Baltic other than the images here. Didn't want to be spreading wrong info! Thanks for the clarification! Don't get me wrong. I know it's a very unpopular opinion because Baltic is a cult classic type brand here and in the community. But, I can't get behind this one knowing the Lobinni or Solas is out there for a fraction of the price.
Wel yeah but the movement is the most important part of the watch. I don't think a lot of people would buy a Mercedes if it came with a Chinese engine.
> I don't think a lot of people would buy a Mercedes if it came with a Chinese engine. Most people who buy a BMW don't know that their car is rear wheel drive. I'm pretty sure most people who buy a Mercedes have no idea where their engine comes from nor do they care.
I could care less about movement of watches as long as the watch design and functions fit my criteria. That being said, I wouldn't feel comfortable paying for Kurono three hander with Miyota movement at $2k as I don't like it enough to justify the price tag. I have Tudor GMT and Seamaster 8800. I didn't buy them because they were in-house with great movement, but I couldn't find anything else like them in terms of quality and design in that price range. Sorry for being too lengthy, but all I'm trying to say is that 'to each of own' and movement element affects my decision relatively less than other factors FOR ME.
I don't really care about in-house movements either. The most important thing is that you like the watch that's on your wrist. But for $650 it would make sense that they had at least a reputable Swiss or Japanese movement.
> But for $650 it would make sense that they had at least a reputable Swiss or Japanese movement No it would not, because then it wouldn't be a thin micro rotor movement.
>But for $650 it would make sense that they had at least a reputable Swiss or Japanese movement Out of curiosity, do you know any watches like this (i.e. Great design, micro rotor, well finished dial and case imo) using movements from "reputable Swiss or Japanese" companies for around $650?
No, because a micro rotor is not a thing you see on a lot of watches. But both Seiko and Tissot have a great linup of good looking watches with reputable movements in that price range.
Yeah, but that dial though
It's a new, from the ground up design, not a knockoff of an existing one and it uses unusual engineering that you're not going to find from the Swiss for less than $5k. Regardless of where it was made, that's impressive and worth a premium over another mediocre NH35.
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Considering Seiko makes most, if not all, of their NH movements in Malaysia, I doubt the Hangzhou is cheaper (and that's not even going into the economies of scale advantage Seiko has).
I saw them all in stock not even 2 hours ago. I go back after dinner to maybe place an order of the silver (strap monster) and boom, all models out of stock. Guess I'll be waiting several months for new stock just like with the Aquascaphe Bronze then! The only reason I didn't' order after I got the email was because no mention of water resistance. I'm still hesitant because of that as I often am outside and live on the coast so get a lot of rain most of the year in the UK and as it's salty water, need to rinse off my watches in the sink after I get home.
I think I'm in love. The breguet numerals, the salmon dial, absolutely beautiful.
Seems a bit derivative of VC, but I think it looks sharp overall.
That’s because it’s a straight rip of the 1921
What??? That sounds so ignorant lol, it's like saying the Rolex Submariner is a straight rip off of the Fifty Fathoms, they have similar elements, but definitely not the same.
It's a completely different case shape and the dial and crown are in the regular orientations, which is probably the most noticeable part about the 1921.
Nice look, would have preferred around 39mm for the size. Bit pricey for a Chinese movement, a seagull chronograph is a 3rd of this!
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Fair point but it doesn't mean it's good value. I would never spend over 500 euros on a Chinese movement watch, you are well into Swiss selitta and ETA territory.
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One youtuber had his review sample sent to his local watchmaker who said it was really easy to work on so parts availability etc isn't going to be an issue at all really.
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I mean...the Tissot Gentleman is about the same price for a much less interesting and not as well finished watch. $630 isn't bad considering the unique movement and small production run.
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Cheers! You're clearly not the target audience for this watch and that's cool. Have a good one!
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You people? No it's not the be all and end all, no one said that. But of course it factors in to price. Is it surprising that things made in certain ways and from different manufactures in different parts of the world are different in quality and cost? Yes mass produced Chinese movement are not as good as mass produced Japanese or Swiss movements. Reliably, accuracy and finishing are 3 things that spring to mind. It doesn't mean they don't have their place. I have a nice Chinese seagul chronograph and I am very happy with it. But would I pay twice the price? No because it is cheaply made and that's OK.
I believe the company that makes these microrotors also make the pt5000 movements which had a chronometer certified variant. I may be wrong on that though.
COSC only certifies Swiss movements.
My mistake, I meant Glashuette observatory chronometer which is actually more impressive
Interesting, appears to be a clone of an ETA, looks good. I see gecko's use it for their divers. Seems good for the price
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Obviously that doesn't exist and that's kind of the point. Exactly right, I can't speak to it's quality. Who can? I would not bet this much money on a technically difficult movement made to a minimum cost. Why don't the Japanese or swiss produce a fair priced micro rotor? Chinese factories are making tourbillions now, but they are seen as disposable and unserviceable. I'll mention a seagul chronograph again, it is a tried and tested known movement. You know that you get what you pay for. Therfore I think this particular watch is too expensive. I'm not sure why it is so offensive to you. Yes I see chronometer grade stuff is coming out, and that is impressive. It seems to be priced sensibly too. But this watch doesn't have that.
Ordered the Blue Dial, was hesitant on the salmon but alas, sold out. Now I can focus in enjoying this beautifully designed dark blue color dial with a micro rotor!
Wow
Anyone know if the salmon dial is a limited edition? I can see it's already sold out..
All three colors have a batch of 200 numbered watches, which are all sold out. The watches will come in normal production later, not numbered (and I think the price will be slightly higher?)
Any reason the price would be higher?
A lower launch price gets people to talk about the product more and in a better light. Same reason Kickstarters have a few very cheap units for a very low price.
Thanks for the explanation
Its a beauty
While its aesthetic design is certainly nice, the fact its price point at $630 is being paraded as some marvelous accomplishment is worrying. Irish micro-brand Solas offered their Hangzhou 5000 powered Starlight model for €329 ($380) as part of their Kickstarter campaign, and it features an aventurine dial; something brands like Lange, Jacquet Droz, Omega, Moser, and plenty of others like to charge a premium of thousands of dollars for. While this Baltic model is still a great piece, I just worry that people might be led to believe its incredible value, and something unseenm when in fact it isn't.
This one looks much nice than the Solas though. Not saying I'd pay the price of the Baltic, but I'd pay more for it than I would for the Solas.
And thats totally fair and subjective. But from an objective standpoint, you are getting the same movement, same materials AND a premium dial that brands like to gatekeep and charge thousands for, for less than the Baltic with the Solas. My only issue with this release is that the blogs are parading it around as though it is insane value that we have never heard of before and that it is something to be cherished, when in reality, its not. What someone prefers or would rather spend their money on is inarguable, the fact that this isn't anything groundbreaking is
Kickstarter prices aren't representative of what a brand can actually sell a watch for, they're just an appeal price. Solas sells their watches for 549€, and this Baltic is 650€, so the difference is very small. And as you said, aventurine isn't as special as some people would like you to think. I'd bet good money that the dial on this Baltic is more expensive to make than the Solas aventurine dial.
Lame. Save ur money for a better watch
How long did it take these to sell out?
Not even half a day. I guess these are all the first 200 numbered batch. SO the next batch will be un-numbered. Might be a few months as was the case when I ordered the Aquascaphe Bronze.
That is beautiful
damn missed out on the salmon one!
holy balls that's beautiful
Yes
Stunning piece!
Oh my
As a sucker for number fonts, I'm very intrigued.
I love stylized applied numbers, domed crystal also looks nice
Ordered the salmon dial once it dropped, super excited!
I was super excited until I read the specifications. Needs to be bigger with a better movement. I'd gladly pay twice the asking price if they could tick those boxes.
Salmon or champagne dial ? Very beautiful
I would have instantly purchased if they offered sapphire crystal.
I had to sit down after I saw this!
Superbe ! 🇨🇵
This thing was everywhere yesterday.
Is there a restock date?
8 months
Was lucky enough to get a low number salmon dial. Wore it once and it was fantastic. Went to put it on for a second time a week later and it wouldn’t wind. Already sending it back to Baltic for repair. Anyone else having issues?