Who Makes The Best $200 Dive Watch?

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The Kamasu has been the $200 #1 for the last 2.5 years now. Can the San Martin claim the crown? You'll find out in about 15 minutes. Cheers, Jody

[GibusGang]

Orient holding onto a crown is ironic considering how difficult i can hold on to their tiny tiny crowns on their watches

I have been collecting watches since the 50´s (I am an old man) and your video is Superlative as always. I have many Orients 200 m from our neighbour Brasil factories and they are amazingly precise, far more than any of my Hamilton´s or chronometer rated Tissot. Note: When I had my electric Hamilton Pacer in 1958 I would have never thought that mechanical watches would stll exist in 2022 :) . They were so obsolete then. Cheers from frozen Patagonia.

[nineteenninetyfive]

The more my Kamasu gets beaten up the more i like it. The fact that people are still talking about this watch makes it a modern classic in my book.

[ikirikchi]

I bought the green Orient Kamasu couple of years ago. I replaced the original Orient bracelet with the Strapcode oyster style one (with polished center links) that costs almost like Kamasu itself. But now the whole set looks like a thousand dollar watch if not more.

[mattclarke]

Given the experience I had with San Martin’s customer service, I’d pick the Orient. Maybe that should be another category?

[HonestWatchReviewsHWR]

An interesting result there Jody.
I also have both of these myself as well. Although I've got my Orient on a jubilee bracelet now instead. For me personally the San Martin wins, as the bracelet is far better, as you said. Also the bezel action and it being ceramic is a big one for me too. The only really weak point is, as you said again... That movement. But I think if you get it with the 8315 that would definitely push it over the Orient.
The only thing that really made it close in the end was 'brand'. Which for me isn't important at all... As long as the name isn't stupid of course. I'd personally double weight the 'value' category instead of the 'brand'. But I guess that's what makes this hobby so interesting isn't it? We all have our own different tastes and preferences. Anyway great video as always mate.

[chrisjackson]

I got a Kamasu because of your channel, I love the Kamasu, it looks original why would I buy a homage watch, I want people to look at my wrist and think what's that, it doesn't look like your normal divers watch and that's what I love about it.

[tonyd]

Love the format Jody, you still providing compelling content after all these years... Wouldn't buy either, but your style makes it worth a watch

[evansbot]

I have a San Martin that was supposed to have a Seiko NH movement but got switched to a YN55 due to pandemic supply chain issues. I couldn't track down what it was and read a lot of contradictory things about who made it. Thanks for clarifying this! I can sleep at night now.

[SSS-mpth]

Bought a Kamasu recently mostly for the beautiful red dial for $189. Other than the hollow endlinks I really like it, better than I expected to. The Aliexpress watches while I have a few I just don't wear them as much as my Seiko, Citizen and Orients.

[jacc]

Love these head-to-head videos. A worthy winner imo. I feel it was important to include a ‘wear’ round. Despite the inferior finishing on the case and bracelet of the Orient, people tend to overlook the importance of comfort. For me having a well finished bracelet that ticks all the spec boxes is less important than a bracelet that is comfortable. Often the lighter, cheap, rattly ones like this one on the Orient feel nicer on wrist.

[johnsrabe]

I have really come to appreciate scoring systems in evaluating pleasant things. It’s fun to break it down and test your preconceptions. Cheers.

[Phil-S]

I don't know about San Martin, but I've always had good experiences with Orient and Orient Star. Very well made and aesthetic watches that last.

[Jack_dnh]

I have one of the vintage dial Kamasus and love it. The only thing is I want to buy a jubilee bracelet from Long Island watch to replace the oyster bracelet because it matches the style and has a more aggressive taper. I’ve liked the homages from San Martin but I just can’t get over not being able to easily return or get things corrected if I have issues with an order so that’s why I’m probably not going to buy one unless it’s something I just can’t get anywhere else.

[GingerDownUnder]

Really interesting comparison. For me, I would have always gravitated towards the Orient, but the San Martin is a compelling case considering it's finish and bracelet.

[JeepSec]

I really enjoyed this video, probably because I'm wearing my Kamasu today. That was a nail-biter for sure! I've never handled a San Martin, but they look great. My Kamasu is probably my favorite everyday watch, more so than many watches that cost a lot more. Great comparisons!

[Oldmanrules]

Really like your testing methods, Jody. Reminds me of my favorite Car magazine, Car & Driver. Keep 'em coming!

[alb]

I have the red Kamasu. I can decide which San Martin to purchase. There are so many choices.

[jorgeolguingarcia]

Incredible video! I installed a double domed (with AR) sapphire to my kamasu and made a tremendous difference, paired with a solid 5 link bracelet. I like it that much that I don't mind paying extra for those upgrades. Thanks Jody

[AwkwardHorology]

Orient was my first mechanical watch and so has a special place in my heart and collection.

However there’s no denying the value for money on offer with San Martin. The only caveat for me is guarantee and after market service, you know what you’re getting with Orient but can be assured the same level of care with San Martin?