Let's talk about San Martin watches

I think it's about time that we had a good old chat about San Martin watches. Actually, I think it's about time that we gave one a proper TTT review. And yes, this video does get a little bit spicy at the end.

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[TopTierTicker]

San Martin has very kindly provided TTT viewers an exclusive discount code. Use TOPTIER0129 for $40 off.

[johncaron]

Outside of watch lovers and collectors, nobody is going to know that this watch is based off of a Grand Seiko.

[rahulwbijlani]

I think this is a bit harsh to be honest. Clearly the watch is inspired by the Grand Seiko, but the hands, indices, bracelet (albeit that is a Rolex design, but let's face it everyone uses it) and dial treatment are all different enough.

Would you feel empty wearing a Christopher Ward 12 because its so similar to a Zenith Sykline or a Czapek? The similarities are undeniable, but I think there are enough differences.

Does the Black Bay monochrome give "a hollow feeling" because its a vintage sub with snowflake hour/second hands?

Could you not enjoy a GP Laureato because of its clear inspiration, the AP Royal Oak?

I could go on- my point is that most watches are effectively remixes of classic designs, and I think San Martin do that pretty well. I personally prefer their version to the GS, which makes it worthwhile in my book.

I agree the San Martin brand is nothing to be excited by, but if you're concerned primarily about design, then what's the difference between this SM and various other cheap alternatives to classic watches- eg. the Cartier tank- that you've mentioned here in a positive light?

[goldfools]

I have noticed a lot of the big watch reviewers are are all over downing, homages, clomages, what ever they call them. Then when it’s one of their favourite brands, they have all the excuses why it’s ok. It’s Madnes😉

[felipem.c.]

The problem is that i don't see the same level of criticism to non-aliexpress brands when they build designs that are heavily inspired by other watches. Islander, Smiths, Steinhart...the list goes on. Even brands considered "original" have so many similarities to iconic watches that it's difficult to say they are not homages as well.

[brianlam]

I think we're seeing the birth of the next generation of Seiko and Citizen.. and they're called San Martin, Baltany, etc.

[davidmarsden]

You make some very good points, however I would still buy it🤷😁

[AndrewClayton]

This is my problem with this review. Holding back this brand because it has borrowed elements from another watch (tho not entirely) is using standards which other watches are not necessarily held to. Hear me out. Watch trends, like clothing fashion, are generally led by the big boy companies. Smaller brands ape these all the time. And this isn’t limited to Chinese brands on Aliexpress. Without a doubt there are definite rip offs from the earlier San Martin watches but there is no denying that they are aiming to break away from this pigeon hole they find themselves in. To be honest, I think they probably sent you the wrong watch.

[alfredthegreat]

Thing is, nearly every watch released now is an homage of something- either by the same company, looking at you Rolex, or from another. It's because a watch is a small item and has a function it needs to perform so there are only so many variations possible.
There are very few truly original watches.

[lucianacarvalho]

original or not the watch is damn beautiful and well made. so if u dont want it send it to me . I"ll take it! 😁

[Mystery_Man]

It’s inspired by Grand Seiko. It’s not a copy. The hand set is different amongst other features. I have no problem with it.

[richardandaya]

My BB 58 San Martin Homage is amazing and I wear it all the time. And I own Rolex and Omega…

[RageAgainstTime]

I also have this watch and I completely understand what you are saying. I love SM in general, I think their watches offer great quality for the price and I do have the SN0131 that you originally requested (it isn't an original design either, Wolbrook Outrider case, PP Aquanaut dial). They are doing a mix between different watches and calling them their "own design" but I'm actually ok with it. Yes, it doesn't feel like you "conquered" something by buying them but I do appreciate what they offer in term of "price vs quality" as I find myself bored of my watches after a while (even Omega and fancier ones). I would recommend SM if you already have a bunch of watches or are planning on having a collection of different designs on a budget. But if you want to feel accomplished when showing off the watch to someone else then get a Swiss watch or something expensive. If you accept what it is, then you will be fine with yourself!

I have other microbrands and to be honest, I prefer SM over Zelos. I ended up selling most of my Zelos (only have a meteorite dial with me now) because I do get bored of their designs fairly quick! Something about them don't make me keep them long term... I have older SM in my collection and never sold any yet nor am planning to.. I do enjoy my Venezianico watches but in terms of quality, I think SM offers so much more for 1/3 of the price. They are a budget watch company and I hope they stay like that without adding any fancy movement inside (like Venezianico and Zelos are doing, because frankly, their latest releases are getting so expensive that I prefer buying established Swiss watches instead)...

Another thing to mention is that my Citizen watches completely lost wrist time after I started wearing SM. The quality of Citizen sucks (feels cheap when holding and wearing) compared to SM when they have the same price.

My current rotation by preference is Omega, TAG Heuer, SM, Venezianico, Wicked Watch Co, Baltany, Addiesdive, Locman, Mido, Zelos, Tissot, Citizen, Pagani.
Cheers!

[vladimirkapkov]

Я ни ЗА, ни ПРОТИВ SM. Но меня бесят эти разговоры про оригинальность дизайна.... Часовые метки у всех либо круглые, либо прямоугольные, единственные стрелки которые действительно отличаются от других-это TUDOR( интересно что курил тот человек, что решил что это снежинка?). Корпус у всех круглый, либо квадратный или прямоугольный... Сделайте свой, оригинальный дизайн и представьте его нам, зрителями и дайте задание найти общие черты с другими брендами. И потом посмотрим что останется от вашего "оригинального"

[moneymikz]

Welcome to the party mate, I guess better late than never… the best analogy I’ve heard is that Chinese watches are like Japanese cars in the 70s. They will be mainstream by the end of the decade.

[cougarbatterie]

You're far from being an idiot. You have the right to your opinion and your ranking choices. If others disagree, let them start their own channel and remain respectful to yours. Please keep making your great videos. I just love them👍

[stevehenrytagami]

It is not a clomage rather influenced by GS. The case, dial, hands are different
Many Swiss brands take influence from other designs. SM are heading in the direction of Phoibus
, we hope as they are talented.
If only they employ a western designer, I would pay more

SM have started a new Microbrand with original Chinese Domestic orientated designs
They are called Jianghun but the designs are not our culture

[asherperlmuter]

Looks more like the Christopher Ward C63 GMT

[cheesychester]

San Martin is killing it. They will grow into their own with time

[kimchiwasabee]

This one covered in PVD gold and the white dial. I'm in awe.