Teddy Baldassarre - watch enthusiast, entrepreneur, and life coach. "Don't be the guy that owns a Rolex but doesn't have a bed frame." Well said.

I started with MVMT watches...I learned quickly that it was a very bad watch, but it did get me into watches in general. So, I can be thankful for that.

I love that you don't call out any one specific watch brand but instead types of watches to avoid. This is a great way to "teach a man to fish" instead of "giving him one". Amazing content as always.

Dude - what a great video. Applies to so many hobbies/collections beyond watches, just sensible advice. The fact that it comes from someone who actually sells watches for a living is even more noteworthy, when many so-called "enthusiast" UKpostsrs are basically paid shills. Great work!

Beautiful and essential advice re: “the watch that brings you financial hardship.” For many, even a Seiko could fall into this category - patience is tough! I finally bought a watch I’ve long desired, I thoroughly vetted it and dwelled on it until I was sure there was no alternative…then waited some more. Finally having the money, I weighed the options even more. THEN pulled the trigger, with no regrets. Can’t wait to receive it

When a brand is withholding watches from their customers in order to pump their prices, it makes it difficult to feel bad about purchasing an homage watch for a fraction of the price. Edit: I did end up buying a Rolex about a year after this comment. It was a used one though.

I really enjoy your calm, rational, well researched presentations. It's refreshing to see someone who isn't trying to be as sensational as possible on UKposts. Subscribed!

This is definitely my favorite video by Teddy. He is honest and genuine. It feels like he’s speaking directly to me on some of the don’ts.

Love this video Teddy Another point I would raise is Don’t buy a watch expecting it will be noticed by people. Buy the watch that makes you happy. You spend a lot of money on a Rolex expecting everyone to notice and realise no one notices and you feel disappointed. Wear the watch that makes you happy even if no one will ever notice .

“The Hype Watch You Do Not Actually Care About” is a huge one. Glad it was included.

When in doubt buy a Casio.

Really appreciate all the tips and the advice about delaying gratification. Just started to save for my first watch and I’m feeling much better about the process after this video :)

Last year I went from a Seiko SNK809, directly to a Tudor Black Bay 58. But I wanted to make sure that I really want the 58. I spent 2 months thinking and researching if getting the Tudor is the right choice, and if the price is really worth it for me; and then another 2 months on the waiting list. And when I finally got the watch, I was so glad that I didn't rush into it. Now, 8 months later, and wearing it daily, it still brings a smile to my face every time I look at it.

"you don't need to own a Speedster" - this is probably the best watch advice I heard in a while. You make a lot of good points. I'm not sure I agree about the homage part - when a gen Aquanaut retail is more than I can justify spending, and the hype has pushed prices over 100k, a homage seems like an interesting proposition.

One of the best advices you can have. I got my first Taghuer from my past away grand father and my next one is Oris for my bachelor degree graduated. I have a plan for many watchs but the thing is don't too focus and remember is a collecting an object that you value but don't let it's more value than your actually goal your career , your family and yourself.

Teddy is the best watch coach ever... i really like his honesty and knowledge about his field. I love that he give value to inexpensive but quality watches. Great job Teddy!

HOMAGE HOT TAKE: I'm actually a fan of homage watches. I have a few in my collection and, though obviously I would prefer the real thing, I've come to understand/appreciate their place in this strange hobby we all love. The idea of "it would be more satisfying to save up for the real thing" feels a little easier-said-than-done for something like a Daytona as an example. For my income level, saving up $30k (for any purpose) would take a very long time, and when I reach that point I could not justify spending it on a watch instead of something like a house (in line with your last 2 points, with which I very much agree). I love the look of the Daytona. The design language speaks to me and I get why it's a highly sought after classic. And so I have a $75 homage at 1/400th the price. Should I not get to enjoy just a fraction of the wearing experience because I wasn't born into money or chose to work in public education? I feel like answering "yes" to that question just perpetuates the gate keeping many in the watch community find so off putting. An underlying thread in all your suggestions is "wear what makes you happy." Anyways, thank you for the great content, Teddy. You are crushing it as always!

Great topics in general! I get as much of a rush wearing my "Casioak" as I do my Omega Speedy & my Pagani BB homage! It's how the individual feels & no one else. 👍

Great video. I've made some very expensive mistakes over the years mostly due to impatience / getting sidetracked. I like to think I've learned from them, but it's tough - there are a lot of truly fantastic watches out there and it's all too easy to convince yourself that "this one" can jump the queue you've carefully set up. Stay frosty out there!

Loved this video, especially the “not in the same galaxy” between the Daytona and that next level Breguet…. So true, and so many people do that mistake. Keep up the great work. Best reviewer on youtube in my opinion. 🍻👌🏽. Watching from Malta.

9:34 #6 I believe I really needed to hear this. I have spent the past couple of weeks watching your videos looking for my first Automatic watch. I realized I knew deep down that I was just trying to fill a void in my life after being laid off in June and having a rough time in the job market along with some other personal matters. Sure, I could go buy that Hamilton field watch or Seiko Presage with my savings right now, but it would nag at me because I didn’t really earn it. It will be much sweeter when I land my next job and I can celebrate by making that purchase in confidence.

Some really good pieces of advice, thanks Teddy! I did a mistake one month ago by buying a Baltic Watch HMS 002. In the end, it was not for me and I did regret my purchase. For the same budget, I'm happier with a Lip GDG Green dial + Leather bracelet. Despite the hype, buying a watch remains very personal. It needs to be special FOR you, not by the others.

This is among the best videos on this subject. So well explained and with such great examples. This video reflects honesty, practicality and a couple of life lessons too. It also speaks volumes about the kind of person Teddy Baldassarre is - truthful and genuine!

I built a right handed Seiko 12hr GMT "Sprite" in 2019 prior to the Rolex release. It went from a unique looking piece to an homage overnight unfortunately. I still really like it and wear it regularly but most people view it as a homage now.

Great video Teddy 👍 I do feel for enthusiasts entering the hobby sometimes a homage watch is a great way to get an appreciation of their grail. I recently upgraded a Seiko 6309 diver with a reconditioned 6105 “Willard” dial as I love the design and wanted a homage to the original. Love the hobby ⌚️

I bought a “homage” watch, but for a unique reason. I’ve been trying to pick between a Tudor Ranger and a BB36. I know it’s not much for some to spend 2-3k on a watch, but that’s the most I can see myself spending on one for a long time and I wanted to be sure I would really enjoy whichever one i bought. And because I can’t “test drive” a watch for a week like a UKpostsr and there aren’t any AD’s around me that carry Tudor- I bought the San Martin version of the ranger and it helped me decide that I want to go for the BB36. I’ll make a trip and see one in person before I buy, but I think the $200 I spent on the watch was worth helping me avoid a $3000 mistake.

Iv recently gotten in to watches and you sir are making me rethink how I see watches. Iv watched a few of your videos and all I can say is you have changed the way I think.. Fantastic advice. Im currently in to vintage watches but finding that right one to start my collection.

You produce amazing content. Sharing your wisdom with us beginners instead of promoting your business shows that you are are genuine person trying to do good. Thank you for that.

Zenith El Primero is my goal watch at the moment. (I think it looks better than the Daytona. Never bought the "It's a Daytona homage" line that Teddy seems to be implying 4:26) I saw that Hammy at 14:44 and nearly pulled the instant gratification trigger because that Hamilton does look pretty and is about 1/4 the price of an El Primero. I was a good boy though. Still saving for my El Primero.

I am definitely a member of the "I will buy this one today instead of waiting for the one I really want". For what I have spent on these watches I could have had a couple of watches that I really would love to now own. Good video and information. Unfortunately for me, years too late. Be safe all.

very reasonable advice! could underline all of them, even when i'm at the very entry point of our hobby. makes sense in every way. very good that you included the fashion watches bit and also emphasized that we are essentially investing in adult toys which should be treated as such investment wise. good video

This is probably the best advice not only for watch enthusiasts but people in general. I’m glad I subscribe to this channel.

I hope for even more content on German watchmaking! I am a newbie, that is - I have always loved watches but felt the luxury/status part of it was obnoxious - until I fell in love in a handful of German brands - no status, just quality, tradition and esthetic integrity, fair pricing and true innovation.

Great content, Teddy. I've bought the hype watch, and the "features" watch (like the Formex Reef I bought from your store!), and the impulse buy watch over the years. I've made a lot of expensive mistakes along the way, but that's how we learn. Buying a watch without wearing it on my wrist most often ended in sadness and remorse. But, with experience I've learned more about what I really want in a watch. I recently bought the new Christopher Ward Trident Pro 300 without seeing it in person and it turned out great. I love the watch. I would love to see you review it. It is an amazing micro-brand watch at a fantastic price.

Thanks for sharing! Love your insight. Hope you have continued success. I see your ads more and more in my UKposts feeds and smile every time. Nice to see you're getting the exposure you deserve 😄👍🏼

I am amazed by Teddy's honest opinions on brands. Some of the brands mentioned here may not like this video. But this is exactly why Teddy is the biggest Watch UKpostsr in the world now. I hope Teddy will reach the one million subscriber milestone soon!

With respect to homage, even close-homage, I’ve my take. I usually buy them to have the feel of the real deal. I can tell you that it works. It saved me some money letting me realise that a certain design is not good for me and then I sold them

Great vid! I commemorated my leaving from one career to another with a watch purchase. I left the railroad after 23 rears and had always wanted a Ball because of its railroad history. Everyone questioned why not a Rolex or other more popular brand. I stuck to my “dream watch” and purchased the Ball. As you sort of demonstrated, I love my watch and have no regrets. I love to look at it and to wear it. It’s one of my favs. I would have had regrets if I would have sidetracked. So bottom line is I agree! All great advice. I’ve made some of those other regretful purchases though. So I can identify there as well!!

Teddy! Great practical advise. And yes, I own a bed frame. Still saving up for the mattress

Rule #1 Buy the watch you like and stop caring what people thinks or may think about it. No matter if it is a homage or lookalike watch, if feels good for you go for it. I have friends with really expensive watches that even asked about my paganis, san martins and other pieces in my collection, do not judge people about the watch they wear.

I wear Movado because my dad wears it since I was little. It has value to me. I don’t care what the “community” thinks.

I agree with your 10 watch types to avoid. I collect watches, and wear a different one each day. In the early years I really did not know what I was doing. It took a lot of trial and error(s) to improve my judgement. I always buy watches that I love without any plan of appreciation, even though I have unwittingly stumbled into buying a couple of watches that have appreciated well. I bought one replica watch and regretted it. I have never worn it, because as soon as I put it on, I am reminded that it’s not right. I kept it as a reminder of what NOT to do. I have owned 3 Rolexes but I sold all of them all because of problems in reliability and the expense and hassle of getting Rolex to repair them. From my personal experience, I have a very negative attitude toward Rolex. On the extreme other end of the love/hate spectrum I have several Omegas and Tissots that I absolutely love simply because they are beautiful and dependable. Keep up your good work. I do like your open minded approach to collecting.

As someone new into watches, your insight has been very helpful. Thanks for your videos. The cinematography is also excellent.

I agree with Teddy in the fact that you receive a certain appreciation when you save up for a really nice timepiece. There's nothing like going from a seiko flight master, to a movado series 800 to saving up a little longer and acquiring that Omega Aqua Terra. That being said I don't think it's necessary to look down on someone wearing an homage watch. I think sometimes as watch enthusiasts we forget some people just want a nice looking watch. I'd much rather see someone wearing a Pagani design that's a Black Bay homage than someone wearing a smart watch. I believe smart watches have spat in the face of the class that comes with a traditional timepiece. Watches for me is like bourbon I used to drink ut for the social part and fun times but now I enjoy the taste profiles how long it's been aged and the different mashes for it. I think if you give people time they will acquire the taste and heritage.

Great points all around and I pretty much agree with everything here. The one where I struggle is the lure of alternatives when the thing you want is within reach. There are many less expensive watches that may scratch the itch, but just won't get me there. I will say, though, something of similar styling for vastly less cost may indeed have its place in the collection, even if only to test the waters to see if said coveted watch is actually what I desire. If it is, then flipping the watch even at a net loss could be worth the cost of admission and the hit may be less than buy a very expensive desired watch, only to find out it doesn't work me and then losing potentially much more money on the flip. Case in point, I ordered (and am waiting on) a couple Seiko watches similar in styling to the Cartier Tank (the SWR049 and SWR053, to be exact). If such similarly sized/styled pieces turn out not to work well for me, then they will be passed on with no regret, whereas buying a $3000 Cartier and having to suffer selling for a larger net loss would hurt a lot more. I could try on a Tank at the local Cartier dealer to get the real feel, but the problem is that local Cartier dealer is about 4 hours drive from me and certainly would be a trip requiring more planning than a trip to a watch dealer to try something on.

Love seeing Bulova's Lunar Pilot after the Speedmaster during the alternative watch segment, cause you know, it was literally used as an alternative for the Speedmaster on the Apollo 15 mission

Amazing video. The lessons here can be applied to many things in life too. Subscribed!

I almost fell into the unproven upstart brand category. Luckily a friend of mine gave me sound advise and i ended up buying a Seiko 5 GMT instead. I'm so glad I heed his advise. Loving my Seiko 5 to bits!

I used to be all about Homages, but now I"m starting to change my stance on that predictably..... there are so many great watches that can take design cues from those well known designs without being a blatant ripoff.

Yes....I've definitely made a couple of the mistakes you mentioned. Luckily, they weren't the kind of mistakes that put me in a bad financial situation, but I definitely made them. I bought a watch because it was "a great deal". The initial rush of getting it for half price fades when you realize you don't wear it and it's just sitting there. I bought a "must have for your collection" Seiko 5. It's a nice enough watch...but I don't wear it often. I bought it based on "what I should have in my collection" instead of buying it because I really wanted it. I bought a "placeholder" watch once. I didn't have a chronograph, and I wanted one. Rather than save up and hunt for one that I would be passionate about.....I bought one that I could afford "right now". As you could guess...I rarely wear it. None of these mistakes hurt me financially, but if you think about it....if you put them all together, instead of 3-4 watches in my collection that I never wear....they could have been ONE that's in regular rotation.

I ended up getting deep into watches this past year and recently bought my first time piece, a Grand Seiko, for 5gs. I absolutely love it. It inspires me to go harder and it also symbolizes how far I’ve come.

I'm new to collecting and currently in college, so not really in the position to go from some the higher priced watches I like. However, a trick I have been using is stopping impulses and then moving that money i would have spent randomly into my savings. Been working so far and when i finally save enough I am sure it would have all been worth it.

Number 6 for me is something to think about. I just got into watches through your videos, I bought a Seiko Presage and I love it. Now I’m looking into buying something for double or triple that price, which I CAN afford, but I’m struggling with “could I do something better with that money?” I’m having trouble reconciling what dollar amount, or what percentage of my income, is okay to spend on the watch. I spend a ton of clothes for work, and I never think of it. I think because it feels like a necessity. But with the watch, it’s like you said: it’s a “toy” for me. So I feel guilt. Idk what to do lol

Great work Teddy. The way you've approached this is a good model for public discourse. Rational, balanced, and an absence of absolutist language.

Such great video. Amazing advice putting it all together how and why we make decisions. You are very wise and deliver the content well. The watches are a nice conversation piece

Great video , and REALLY great advice for life in general. I'm in my 50's and been a watch "enthusiast" since my 20's. I own 16 watches. Two are in the $5000 - $7000 range. Absolutely LOVE them, and those two are my cherished "collection". The rest were less than $800. Everyday beaters that work great. FANTASTIC advice. Get what YOU love and F**k what others say or think.

6. totally agree, and in that sense i think that "homage" watches are great. I really like Rolex Submariner but i cant afford in current stage of my life. So i got a homage of it for fraction of a cost and i absolutely love it. I think in our world there should be more of "enjoy what you can afford" and less "hustle 'till you can buy high-end"

One of the best video you've ever made. Wise with great insight. It really is a conforting video. Thanks for that.

This is one of the best episodes I have seen Teddy. Great advice, as usual. Thank you.

Great video, Teddy! Recently I sold all my affordable homage watches. I got to the point I had too many of them (about 14) and I did not enjoy them at all. From profit I bought Orient Star watch which became my favorite! We all learn from our mistakes. Cheers from Czech republic:)

Nothing wrong with a homage or watch looking like another as long as it isn't sold as such. Even big brands copy designs like you mentioned, but you love those..

Awesome, awesome video Teddy. Thank you for the wisdom! 🙌

Great video Teddy!!! I know I personally have made a few mistakes on your list. Having said that, it's a learning experience. I am saving up for an Omega Speedmaster Pro in Sapphire crystal. Its's out of my reach presently but I have made some good relationships with a few dealers so lets see. I thought about the Submariner no date over the Omega but then decided against it as I currently have a Tudor Black Bay which I purchased in 2016 with the In house movement. The Speedmaster Pro is definitely the watch for me. All in all your list was spot on sir!

I like Movado watches. I didn’t see them mentioned but they were on the thumbnail. I love the way they look. I know they’re not a “luxury” brand but I wear my Movado more than I wear many of my more expensive watches.

Great video. Tip #9 actually just helped me make an important decision. I've been saving for an IWC Big Pilot and recently got sidetracked by a Hamilton Intra-Matic Chrono and was seriously considering buying that instead. After watching this vid I'm gonna stick to my guns and hold out for the Big Pilot. Thanks Teddy 😊

Bro you been working out and it shows. Cool watching you go from boy to man live

Great video Teddy!! Thanks for posting, it is very insightful. Until this one I've only seen your watch videos with the O'Leery guy and trust me, you're better off on your own....

I love homage watches. Love them. Totally legal. And it sticks it to companies like Rolex that artificially inflate the prices of their watches by reducing supply.

Great video Teddy, I don’t buy fake, I don’t buy copies, I don’t buy hype. I buy exactly what I like and make no apologies for it. I have a Seiko, Shinola, Victorinox, Panerai, Zenith and Omega and I could care less what anyone else thinks about them. They all hold meaning for me and I enjoy wearing all them to remind me of my accomplishments in life. My collection is strictly that, MINE and I don’t care if someone else likes them or not.

That’s the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame at 2:50 Brings me joy to see our Cleveland sights included in the video.

Pulled the trigger on an omega diamond constellation and a planet ocean all white 39.5mm. Best choices I ever made, I love them.

I purchased an MVMT based on their TV ads. It's not the highest quality watch but it's also proven to be pretty reliable and was a great introduction in to the watch world. I now own established brand watches but will still sub in the MVMT to my rotation. Would I ever buy another one? Maybe not, but I would recommend them as a budget friendly introduction.

I almost bought a mvmt a year ago but ended up not. My fiancé just ordered me my first watch for Christmas and I picked a seiko series 5 in green. Can’t wait to get it!

Great advice. Bottom line; buy what you like, not what you think other people might like.

Hey Teddy, love the videos and learning a lot. What would you choose as your very first watch if you got to start over?

Great tips and sharing. Very useful. I purchased my first automatic, a Seiko SRPD25K1. I already have a smartwatch and a few Quartz timepieces but I knew Seiko has a long track record and makes quality timepieces at quite affordable prices. This SRPD25K1 caught my eye because of the dark blue sunburst dial and black IP coated bezel which appealed to my taste. Moreover the stainless steel bracelet looks good on this piece. It was selling at retail price of RM2100. But I managed to bargain the price down to a cool RM1500. Plus I heard there is not many units of this specific model left in my country because Seiko has stopped production for this model and other outlets had already sold out. Still, the watch shop I got it from managed to source one last unit for me which was new and still in the plastic wrapping. What's important is that I got the my first automatic which appealed to my tastes, at a really good affordable price from an authorized retailer so I know it's original and authentic. Love it so far and wear it everyday with me.

Regarding point #2, homage watches, this falls in the category of "to each his own" style & price point. The Rolex Sprite GMT that Teddy highlighted is unavailable at the Authorized Dealers, and well out of the price range of many buyers. So if someone wanted to buy brand X with the green/black bezel, I see no harm since the brand is clearly NOT Rolex. Another related example is Seiko copying the Batman motif at a $495 price point in its GMT line. Again, to each his own, and this is not stealing since it is not using the luxury brands logo (which as Teddy pointed out is a crime). Let's face it, car manufacturers borrow design cues from each other worldwide and the consumer benefits.

I personally disagree on #7. One of my favorite watches is a fashion watch. I bought it for its unique and distinctive appearance and still love wearing it. Also homage watches when the watch you want is not attainable is ok in my opinion. Really good content in the video.

*This is why I watch your channel Teddy. I respect you. Great video. Your dedication, knowledge, and genuine sincerity is appreciated, always. 🙂

I was given 2 grand seiko’s through my dads will and can I say i’m excited to start learning and watching Teddy has opened my eyes!

I have a Pagani NTTD. I’ll never be able to have the real deal and I love how they look and want the chance to have that look. I know it’s not an Omega and I’m ok with that.

I recently bought a GUCCI “Diver” to add to my collection. I love it as much as my ORIS. It’s a quartz movement, which was missing in my collection. Groan all you want, I think it’s absolutely beautiful and very well made. Lots of compliments at my office.

I really like how down to earth you are Teddy. As a guy who is not rich and still enjoys watches.

So well done and sincere. I just SLAMMED the Subscribe button and looking forward to catching up on all the great videos and more to come.

Great advice! I 100% agree with everything! Except….the statement, “don’t buy a replica” screw them. I was on 3 different Rolex “waiting lists”:for a Daytona. I bought a sub, a GMT, and a yacht master. Over the past 4 years. I still don’t have my Daytona. I bought a super clone. I LOVE IT! I wear it every day, and you know what? I can care less if I get some desk rash on it, hit it against something by accident, and it is SPOT ON. I have zero desire to kiss ass and play the Rolex game anymore. If I do get the Daytona from a dealer, the first thing I will do is flip it. Play their own game. I’d also add another piece of advice. Don’t buy a watch that you can’t read the damn time on. I have a zenith el primero skeleton. The watch hands are the same tone as the internals. I can’t ever tell the time on it. (Omega makes an all black and gray sea master now too). No wAy.

I have a $50 homage Rolex Daytona (panda) and I love it, I just use it when I go cycling/running/working. It has a good seiko chrono movement, sapphire glass, ceramic bezel, it's waterproof enough to have it in a pool. I wear it more than some real mechanical watches that I own.

Good video because with anything that can be a collectible item, people sometimes lose sight of reality and end up in financial pain. Lots of level headed advice. 👍

Very well put in this video!! Thanks for sharing your wize thoughts.

Well stated as usual Teddy. I wish you'd made this video before I first started out on my horology journey but then I guess we learn from our mistakes....

As a watch designer for the last 15 years, I agree with most points here. My brand has been around for 12 years and copied by many. The most baffling part is that my watches are very affordable already but the copies sell for the same price?! So much so that the first watch I designed in 2010 got copied by a guy in China, then his brand is credited and used in the AppleTV show 'Severance'! He literally removed my logo from my watch and sells it as their own.

My friend has caught the desease from me . I will share this video with him at the beginning of his journey . It is a Master Class in how to start the jouney into watches . Thank You

Currently saving $15/week for a Grand Seiko Snowflake. I planned it out so that i should have enough by my 50th birthday, 7 years from now. It's a small incremental amount and getting my grail watch on a milestone moment in my life will be so satisfying 😊

Not all homage watches are terrible. I bought an Invicta Pro Diver, which is an homage of the Rolex Submariner, because its Seiko NH35A movement is a reliable machine. I also like the quality finishes, and the deep green color on the bezel and dial is quite attractive. I really don't have $30,000 to burn on an already unavailable Submariner Hulk. At $90, with positive reviews from enthusiasts across the globe, the Invicta homage does the job as a diver watch and is no doubt a good value for the money.

I have no issue with homage pieces. Sometimes I prefer the homage setup to the original. I love the explorer and the OP but will not spend anything on a Rolex (I haven't since the 80's so it's not recent) and I just found a small maker watch that combines my favourite features of the Explorer with the parts I love of the OP. I snapped it up and it makes me smile every time I wear it. I also saved a huge amount of money. Score.

Your takes on all your point is very professional and true, I really love homage watches and what you said is how I decide what homage watch to get, if it's just a rip off it starts to feel like a replica. I like it when there's elements of originality in the design language. San Martin is my favorite, but they copy way too much. There are still struggling with brand identity, but I'm sticking with them, I know they are getting around their style one watch at a time. And their quality control happens to be the best in their tier of watches above Pagani and even Sieko if I do say so. Tissot is very great with originality, their dials are nice but the entire style doesn't resonate with me, and again QC concerns. Thanks for your video. Definitely a new subscriber ❤

Thanks for the great guides and informative reviews Teddy. What do you think about Ciga design watch brand? I have one model and plan to buy their Blue planet model

On the topic of homages--people buy paintings all the time that are made to look identical to the original, without claiming to be. My office is filled with such artwork, when you're looking for something that's iconic, let's face it, many original designs aren't that great and when you're dealing with a canvas as small as a watch? Well there's only going to be so much variation possible. That being said, I do like original designs, plenty of Vostok, Orient, and Seiko watches in my collection -- but even wearing my Seiko Sea Urchin I've been asked once if it was a Rolex by a guy who only caught a glimpse at a distance. So, what's the big deal? Unlike replicas/fakes they're not frauds trying to be something else, even if they're trying to be faithful to the original artwork so-to-speak. Many Chinese brands don't have strong design departments either, yet make amazingly high quality pieces for the money, a $350 Cronos GMT? The Hangzhou 6460 is a great little movement ( ETA clone with a GMT addon ), +3 seconds a day! Sapphire crystal, Ceramic bezel, screw down crown, a nice comfortable bracelet too. Does it look like a Rolex GMT Master II? Yes, very much so. Let's face it, original designs are hard, and even brands that are commended for their designs like Baltic draw massively on things that came before. The Tissot PRX that is so popular these days? It's a throwback design. This stuff is hard, so what else is a brand to do that just wants to make a quality affordable product that they know their customers will absolutely love? They're going to turn to homages, and I don't blame them. You even see this with cars, just check out the ford fusion vs an aston martin.... NB Miata vs a Dodge Viper? Even the toyota MR2 spyder can look like a porsche boxster with those early 2000's headlights from some angles. Who cares if the design is "original?" Honestly, thinking about watches the only ones that seem to be original and unusual are things like Konstantin Chaykin, Xeric, and a few others. Let's be honest too, most people won't even wear such things. From 10-15 feet away, you can hardly tell the difference between even the major watch brands--a black diver looks like a black diver. Honestly, I wonder if some of the contention against homage watches is that they encroach upon the big brands- -how can a $350 watch get so close to something that's $10,000 or more? And sure, the Rolex will definitely be an heirloom piece that can go anywhere and will not let you down. You take a little risk with something like a Cronos - - but failures follow a bathtub curve and if you get out of the first month chances are you'll have no issues with it. Just get it serviced in five years and it'll probably keep on going longer than you'd care to wear it. Even if you want to take a Swiss example, Steinhart, for less than $1,000 you get excellent timekeeping and build quality from a Swiss made piece, it happens to be a homage, and, who cares? Sure they have some original designs too, but I can only imagine the homages sell way more than their original designs--because let's face it, it's a more pleasing form of art. ( edit: hypens striked out text above, funny markup Google has lol )

I wish I discovered Teddy's channel earlier in my watch collecting pursuit. When I first started buying watches - and I am embarrassed to admit this - I bought quartz watches from bands like Invicta, Fossil, Tommy Hilfiger, and Guess. I did not know much about the artistry, quality and craftsmanship that went into higher end automatic/mechanical pieces. Then, by happenstance, I stumbled upon Teddy's channel and others like it, which gave an accessible look into the amazing world of horology. Now I am in the process of replacing those watches, which I now know to be mass produced cheap trinkets, devoid of the ingenuity and style of the brands that Teddy features on his channel. While I can't afford the premium luxury or high horological brands, I am now looking to replace those poor quality toys with brands that Teddy regularily features on this channel - brands like Longines, Hamilton, Tissot, Certina, Seiko, etc. Thank you Teddy for opening my eyes to the world of amazing higher quality timepieces. I could have bought my recent purchase of my Tissot Gentleman Powermatic from Tissot directly, but as a sign of gratitude, I bought it from your website. In a month or two, I plan to buy my Oris Aquis Date chronograph from your website as well.

Thanks for the info! I’ve been watching all your videos before I make my first purchase

Excellent video! I’m a pretty new collector (admittedly low end) and I’ve already fallen for two of these categories! Hope this will keep me both from falling for them again (slow learner) and for the other categories. Thanks again.