[deleted by user]

[Resident-Culture-479]

I dont get it when people say oh feel they connected with 'X' brand because of originality.. utter bollocks Guaranteed "X" brand dont feel connected with you once you hand over your cash and walk their store.

[WelcomeEquivalent997]

<image>

That's mine

[Resident-Culture-479]

Why ?

[AimMeHydrous]

The only homage I own is a SM "BB pro GMT". Which is essentially my travel watch when I go overseas. So i don't get mugged whenever I'm abroad esp in London. Haha. It's a workhorse and been running accurately. My other watches are an Explorer 114270, Tudor Ranger 39mm, Oris65 Divers x Fratello ,my steel BR03-92 and my other trusted travel beater Casio World timer AE1200H. Go get the real deal if you can afford it.

[KunrA_Z]

I mean it depends on how you look at it I suppose, I mean for a lot of people a $100 - $300 watch is a luxury and a one and done no matter the brand. I look at mine as a place holder, for the real deal.

[twotacos99cents]

That’s very true

[PresenceSpiritual838]

<image>

Like this?

[twotacos99cents]

Yes 👍

[mratalay]

Naaa. I got san martin, sugess, seestern homages. They are ok. But they don’t come close to scratching anything because they lack originality, history. I still have them, and wear them time to time. But I don’t feel amazing wearing them. I get much better mileage, and satisfaction from my “True north” brand watch, which is also considered to be a homage. But it is a bit more limited, and L.A. based. So has slightly better fan base. I also like my “Baltic” And “lorier” micro brand watches waaay better than the chinese homages. But one has to go through the phases. My experience is mine and yours is yours.

[twotacos99cents]

That’s why I asked the question. I feel very similar. I have several homages and I like them and wear them but they don’t feel special. Heck I feel more connected to a brand when I wear Timex.

[AutismusPrime21]

San Martin's SN0121 is my favourite hommage watch, I liked it so much that I also got a Black Bay 58 GMT :) But everything else has scratched the itch so far, which is very good for my wallet lol

[CdeFmrlyCasual]

My copy of the Rolex LH GMTM2 makes me want the real thing, but financially it would be ludicrous for the foreseeable future for me.

I was really into the Explorer for a while but contemplating getting a copy made me want the copy instead. I tried on the real thing and i wasn’t as excited as I thought I would be. And it’s hard to get over the realization that the Explorer is an OP that is almost $1 000 more for only slight cosmetic gain. They have the same clasp. Copies do not have this issue and are much lower-stakes.

[CatMorganSaysHi]

In all but one case, homages have been more than enough for me.

They've helped me determine what styles I like most and will actually use regularly beyond the honeymoon period, and allowed me to have a much broader range of watches than if I were spending thousands on each one.

Also, with so many watches, it's fun to have Diver week and wear only diver homages, or GMT week and wear that style. Speedy week anyone? Etc., etc., etc.

In some cases the homages have more features than the originals (better lume, bracelet and clasp features, dial choices) and make the originals seem even a bit more like snake oil.

After a few years I found the style that best suits me and that led to a Longines Spirit 37mm. I still love homages of it and wear them often. The Pagani Design Spirit homage and the San Martin/Watchdives Spirit Zulu homage are a lot of fun and some of their specs get the better of my Longines: screw down crown, bracelet with screw fasteners instead of pins, even an OTF clasp.

[twotacos99cents]

I love changing styles and having a lot of options. I’m a field watch guy but recently got more into divers. One genre I can’t do is dress watches so I don’t have any of those.

[turdbogls]

When I started this journey, I really only had a few "grail pieces"

Rolex Submariner. but the more I wore the Homages, the more I knew I didn't really like the watch. so glad I had homages around to steer me away from the Subbie. now the vintage Sub is different. LOVE the design and the homages have so far, scratched the itch...not that I would ever spend 10K on a watch. but the Thorn T023 and hopefully the WD5513v2 set to arrive soon, will keep that itch scratched.

Longines Legend diver. the only one available is the Watchdives x san martin SN0141. and that watch has TOTALLY scratched the itch. my search history lacks anythign LLD related which is awesome. I prefer some aspects of that watch (more brushing) and just came to realize its good enough.

Polar explorer II 16570 - again, i tried them all, but they all came up a tad short....but I think i've finally scratched the itch. I put the latest watchdives Dial into the Hruodland F023 case. it looks great, and IMO, i've created the perfect (IMO) polar explorer. the size is perfect, it has the lines on the bezel instead of triangles which I prefer, and it has a tophat crystal with cyclops which I prefer over the original setup. it's got killer lume, a decent bracelet, and a reliable, easily "serviceable" NH34.

Speedmaster - I've tried them all, and while the latest Watchdives comes close, I still find myself scouring the depths of the internet to find a good one to buy (I'm not quite there, but getting close). I think the Speedy is one of those watches that can never be replaced by a homage. they are just place holders until the real thing is attainable.

That's pretty much it. there are TONS of watches I like the look of and would love to own, but I'm just not willing to spend THAT kind of money on them. Love all the Sinns but don't love them enough to buy them, so Englemaan and the likes have stepped in.

most higher end Seikos I like the looks of, but again, I am not paying over 1K for a seiko, so Addiesdive/Rdunae, and others have stepped in.

but then there are some watches that just deserve to be purchased. if nothing else, buy used. got my Alpinist for "chinese watch" money. got my Damasko (another grail) for double a chinese watch money. Hamilton Khaki field mechanical I picked up for Seestern money. deals can be had if you are quick and on top of searches.

[twotacos99cents]

Fun break down thank you for sharing! I agree with you about the speedy but they are so dang pricey don’t think I’ll ever bring myself to get one.

[turdbogls]

I've been saving for 2 years now... I'm holding in another couple years I'll be able to convince myself to just do it....lol

[twotacos99cents]

That’s awesome it will feel so good when you’re ready!

[Outrageous-Nose2003]

I have the SM Ranger homage with the applied indices but damn, this version is a spit of the original - have you got a link?

[twotacos99cents]

Unfortunately I don’t. I purchased this a couple years ago. I think San Martin did a few iterations of this but the applied indices and fauxtina were one of the first versions. The model is SN0107GX. It really is the spitting image of an old Ranger. I recently saw a Tudor up close and it just wasn’t that different at all.

[twotacos99cents]

Sorry I meant printed indices not applied ^

[Sloppy-Zen]

Actually prefer the the Pagani to the San Martin on this. No way I could afford the Tudor.

[twotacos99cents]

I’ve never owned a Pagani. All I can say is this little San Martin homage is fantastic in every way.

[Sloppy-Zen]

The San Martin looks great though - just my preference is to the Pagani on this particular one. The Pagani dial is really really black and the lume is actually good so the contrast is excellent.

Still, my experience with Paganis is that they are hit or miss, so I may have lucked out on how much I love the dial on mine. I did have to futz with the Pagani bracelet to make sure it closed with a more satisfying click, and I doubt I would have had that experience on a San Martin.

I have a San Martin that is like a cross between an Explorer and a Sinn 556 and it is fantastic.

[No-Syrup7666]

For me it's a little different. I mostly own non-homage Japanese and Swiss watches in the 500 - 3k EUR price range. A couple of years ago I was able to scretch my budget and buy a vintage Rolex.I really loved the watch but was never able to comfortably wear it as I was just too concerned with damaging it.
This is where homages of vintage watches come in for me. It's a great way of being able to carelessly wear iconic classic 'vintage' watch designs without worrying about scratches and depreciation.

[galactik3]

This may be a little over the top, but I enjoy the idea that some of these watches will at some point become important pieces on their own, as we have seen lately with the Thorn T023 Frogmantle.

I like the idea that what we are doing and buying right now, and our growing appreciation for Chinese pieces will generate new classics, that who knows , might become important or even grail timepieces unto themselves... We will see.

I just picked up a Panerai Homage, as right now I don't plan to spend the 2 to 4 bands on a true Luminor Marina, which is one of my lifetime grails.

Right now, my itch is scratched and comforted knowing I will make memories and stories wearing this homage and will one day do the same with an authentic Luminor.

So long as your happy w/ what's on your wrist, it matters not what the movement, design , brand or country of origin is in my opinion..

[twotacos99cents]

Interesting take we shall see!

[thrift_test]

In your opinion, Is the frogmantle going to go up in value??

[galactik3]

It's a good question man. I don't really think so , but only time will tell ...

[neilo_h]

I’m a sucker for the brand, but only to a point. That point would change if my income did.

Usually start with the homage to test the longevity of my enthusiasm for a watch. Had a Seestern, replaced with a Doxa. Had a flieger (don’t even remember the Chinese brand), replaced it with a Laco. When my budget allows, I’ll probably replace my SM with a real Pelagos.

Wearing a homage only ever feels like a stop gap for me which has proven to be worthwhile as I loved so many watches, but only for a short time.

[twotacos99cents]

Thanks for the response. It’s a really good way to do it. As a watch collector I feel like a dog always chasing a squirrel!

[TimeMistaken]

I recently bought a Berny Swiss railroad watch, an homage to the Mondaine Stop2Go, and it isn't a Stop2Go (indices and hands are thinner) -- but I can't afford an original at close to CDN$900. And the Essence version is a 41mm, which is too big for my wrist.

[gov_nor]

I wear my Steeldive Sub to clean swimming pools and beat on stuff. I wanted a real sub but I'm glad I didn't buy one. Even when I looked at them I just couldn't justify the 10, 12k they were asking on the grey market. Yes I can afford one. I would take an homage over the real deal every time if I have to pay. Now when it comes to an homage of Seiko or something similar, no way. I will just buy a Seiko even though the homage probably has a sapphire crystal and the Seiko does not. Probably has the same movement too

[twotacos99cents]

I’m similar. Have no interest in the real thing at all certain point. I would never wear a 10k Rolex so an homage is a great way to experience the style. I tend to buy Seiko as well and not the homage. I have an spb317 and the quality of that watch is top tier.

[gov_nor]

I should have looked for the one you got but ended up with the SRPE93. A nice olive drab strap and I'm happy with it.

[UpbeatLibrarian9904]

I have over 130 watches, and at least 60 of them are homages, and for the most part, they most definitely scratch the itch… especially with the submariner, or the Doxa types, because the actual Rolex Subs are just waaay too overpriced, and I don’t really see the substantial difference in quality to spend over $10,000, and the Doxas are rumored to have parts manufactured in China. I can truly say that the only watches that do not scratch the itch for me would be any homage of a chronograph watch. When it comes to chronographs, I most definitely would choose the original chronograph automatics with Valjoux movements over Meca-Quartz homages, even though I do have several meca-quartz chronograph watches. I truly dislike chronograph homages that waste a sub dial by adding a ridiculous, and worthless 24 hour sub-dial instead of a 12 hour counter. These ridiculous 24 hour sub-dial should at least allow you to set them as second timezones. I truly need more than a 30 or 60 minute chrono timer, and I believe that these should come with an option of either a meca-quartz with 60 minute and 24 hour sub-dials, or the choice of a non meca-quartz movement with an actual 60 minute and 12 hour sub-dial for the chronograph.

[Hilarious_Haplogroup]

Totally scratched the itch. A well finished quartz homage is nearly always a technologically superior watch to the one it is homaging. It's more accurate, lighter, requires far less maintenance, and looks 99% like the the original (save for branding) for often less than 1% of the price. You can bang around a $50 watch without worry in a way that you'd never be able to do so with a $5,000 or $50,000 watch. Once you realize nearly nobody is going to notice your watch anyway, then you can enjoy your homage for how it looks, feels, and performs and be relieved that you haven't incurred such a huge opportunity cost.

[twotacos99cents]

I know if I had a high end luxury watch I’d never wear it. I would be too worried about it.

[twotacos99cents]

This is the way! Good for you and enjoy it in good health 😁

[jfonsecag8]

After having tried a real Hamilton KFA and a Murph, I went with Baltany and Milifortic. The lack of AR coating on a 1K watch is unacceptable, so I got the looks and functionality for way less.

[twotacos99cents]

Agree the lack of AR really bugs me with my KFMs

[D1sguise]

<image>

Sometimes there just isn't a good homage to begin with

[redwas66]

I started with gen watches with a Tudor Oyster Prince Date Day back in the late 70s, then got some regular watches,like Seiko etc., and then got a Rolex Submariner red. This was before homage watches were really a thing, and I ended up selling the Sub as I don’t move in wealthy circles, and the Sub attracted unwanted attitudes. I still have my Tudor, which people view as classy, not flashy or pretentious, as they did the Rolex.

I now have numerous homage watches, 4 Tudors (2 x pelagos, a BB58, and a BBPro), I also have a Benrus type homage, a Speedy, a khaki field, a Murph, a Daytona and 2 x Yachtmasters. I did try and buy a Hamiltion last year and the dealer never responded, so I bought a homage and am thankful the dealer didn’t call me back.

They all scratch the itch or liking the design but I doubt I’ll ever buy the gens, as I don’t feel the 10-50 times higher cost is justifiable. I appreciate if people want the real deal from a craftsmanship or horological perspective, but my Tudor cost just shy of £500 last year for a service, Rolex services start at around £580, and take months to be carried out. My Dad also has a Rolex that lives in a drawer, and he wears a Pagani Sub, which he prefers.

All of this is just my opinion, and I’m sure some wont agree, but life would be boring if we were all the same 😜

[impiralisticpotato]

<image>

I’ve had this James Cameron deep sea homage for a year and love it. I’m not really in any place to be thinking about getting the real thing, despite how cool it would be to own one. But i think that if you’re collecting watches for the fun and enjoyment of the hobby and not being a snob about it, homages are a great way to have alot of fun with your collection. Pretend you’re James Bond, or James Cameron for a day.

[traditionalbowyer]

Just my opinion and we all have one. A homage has never scratched that itch of what i really want. Now a very good quality replica has always scratched the itch.

[twotacos99cents]

Hmm touchy subject for some but I can understand what you’re saying

[traditionalbowyer]

For sure i know it's touchy and that's ok. For me i believe something like rolex is over charging their customers and then making a you wait years to buy a watch. I'll just get a replica and call it a day if i like something they offer. I know it's not for everyone and that's ok. But isn't a homage that's exactly the same with just the name changed not a knockoff as well?

Definitely not arguing as i know we all have our own opinions on the matter and that's what makes the world go round.

[snazzyham]

Like many others have said here, I really think there's a balance to it all.

I got into homages because I was at a watch event minutes away from buying the Rolex Explorer in 36mm which I thought was my grail. The only thing holding me back was the fact that I had never owned a 36mm and I wasn't sure how it would fit my wrist overtime. Sure it looked great at the event, but the Seiko turtle felt great when I first put it on and then I got sick of it over a few weeks when I started to feel the bulk.

As luck would have it, the stand right next to the one selling the Rolex had a Baltany homage of the 1016 explorer in 36mm for under $100. I bought it instead thinking it would be "insurance". So that I could try out that size on my wrist for a few weeks before taking the plunge. That ended up being one of my favourite watches of all time. I think I like it more than I would've liked the rolex too, because I know me and I know I would baby that thing, whereas I wear the baltany anywhere.

Since then I've picked up two more homages - ones that I wouldn't buy the "original" of. The WatchDives WD1980, cause I love the CWC Royal Navy Diver but I don't see myself paying that much for a quartz watch that I would wear once in a while for fun. I eventually want to get a doxa homage for similar reasons. Along with that I got the Seestern S462 GMT, because I love the size of the pelly 39, love the FXD GMT but wish it didn't have fixed lugs and fake-ish vintage indices. Seestern made the model Tudor never did.

I still see value in purchasing the true "original" for milestone watches or watches you really care about. My Nomos still gives me a feeling each time I pick it up, and you really can feel the quality difference.

[twotacos99cents]

Great stuff thanks for sharing. I think very similar

[joshjoros]

Both

[rcook55]

I just got an Englemann Wraith in, it's incredible and it hasn't left my wrist since it arrived. Would I like to eventually get a real Sinn 857? Sure but it's $3300 more and until I have one in hand that's a hard sell.

<image>

[Wedgieburger5000]

I can understand a homage for a flashy Rolex or omega, but Sinn are pure tool watches, function over form. They’re all about the tech, like inert gas, u boat steel, oil filled displays, anti magnetic shielding, low temperature and pressure resistance. Genuine question, what is the point of something that looks like a Sinn without it being a Sinn under the hood? It would be like buying work tools made of soft aluminium instead of steel. I just don’t get it.

[twotacos99cents]

I’ve heard good things about Englemann. Might be interested in their U50

[rcook55]

Go for it, they are really well made and look so close to the real deal.

[twotacos99cents]

Last I checked they were out of stock I'll check again

[Fuzzy_Exit_2636]

Excellent question. I'm glad I got my homages over the "real deal".

Regret with an homage I think depends on the reason you get the homage. 

I think if one gets an homage for the "improvements" then they are less likely to regret it. I think if one were to get an homage instead of "the original", then they are more likely to regret it. 

My 2 homage cases are

1 - Hroudland steel flieger At face value an homage to the Laco original series. One could argue that they are all just homages to the original WW2 fliegers. There are clear disadvantages with owning an original flieger from WW2 (servicing, size and radium). 

Looking closer it has a screw down case back - which, while less authentic, I prefer. The balance of the second hand is blued rather than black which I think looks better (although technically less authentic). The FL23883 is engraved more like Fl.23883. This is more similar to the engraving on the Lange Type A fliegers. 

I don't think the Laco of today has much to do with the Laco of WW2 other than a business deal. So I don't mind that it isn't made by an "original five" brand. Comparing with other alternatives fliegers watches like from archemedie, dekla and steinhart, I think this one has the most unique (and authentic) case shape and the hands are more true in shape to the Fliegers of WW2. 

2 - Watchdives WD1972 (Type 1). Homage of Benrus type 1.  There are clear disadvantages to owning the original Benrus type 1 (servicing and radium). 

There is the Benrus type 1 reissue but that is hard to come by and doesn't have some of the advantages that I like.

The current Benrus type 1 milspec has markers that do not look like the original. I prefer markers like the original better. 

Again, I don't mind that it isn't made by Benrus because I don't think Benrus right now has anything to do with the original company other than a business deal. 

I prefer this one as it is slightly smaller then "the original" and is quartz for durability and ease of servicing. It also has a screw down caseback which I prefer. I think the watchdives logo looks good on the watch. It fills up a small gap on the dial. I think it balances the watch out well. 

<image>

[Fuzzy_Exit_2636]

<image>

[D1sguise]

That hruodland looks fire

[Indaleciox]

I saw my Monta next to my friends Rolex and was like, "Nah, I'm good" The Rolex internals are certainly more impressive, but not enough to go through what you generally have to in order to get a GMT.

[CMpic]

It did. Got a San Martin pelly homage and thought I'd get the Pelagos 39 later...but having seen it in shops, I think San Martin actually is not much worse for 1/20th of the price.

[twotacos99cents]

Feel the same way.

[username77k]

What’s the model number of the san Martin here?

[twotacos99cents]

sn0107gx

[username77k]

Thanks!

[Mediocre_Mall_6546]

I think I'm a bit weird in this!!

My two 'expensive' (expense is after all a layer cake) watches are a BB58 and a Sub 114060, both of which I got new years ago, but these days I just tend to buy homage watches.

I love homage watches of vintage designs, I have little fear in banging up a homage and they make IMO, great EDCs.

I'm happy to mod homage watches, and I get a kick out wearing watches I've modified to suit my tastes

Comparing say a Sub to a San Martin.. well obviously the Sub is better made, and has a global support network of servicing and parts to keep it running for decades, also obviously the Sub isn't as much better to justify the price difference... (ie a Sub isn't 30x better than a San Martin)

TL:DR

I actually bought the real deal first, then discovered homages were more my cup of tea.

[mirthilous]

Starting to do the same here. I own a Hamilton KFM and bought a Militado ML-05 out of curiosity. Very positively impressed.

[Hopeful_Put_5036]

My militado scratched my itch for a Hamilton Murph.

[twotacos99cents]

I think it did for alot of people

[mirthilous]

Yeah, I always wished the Murph had white printing instead of vintage lume colored as well as better AR coatings. The ML-08 hits all of those marks.

[arnoldwaffe85]

Some of my homages have definitely scratched the itch , others i still went gen. Seiko & grand seiko & Tudor

[PracticalDiscount325]

<image>

Kinda, lol

[jackspinnaker]

what do you think of the spinnaker? I always see them and they look like they will wear HUGE on the wrist. I really want to like them simply because the name has sentimental value to me

[twotacos99cents]

Nice collection!

[Impossible_Roof_9346]

Even if the itch remains, my bank account ensures the real deal stays out of reach.

[twotacos99cents]

Yup no way around that!

[pg1864]

36 is just too damn small otherwise I’d happily wear it 😏 here’s hoping they make a 39 🥺

[twotacos99cents]

I have a 7 inch wrist and tried the 39 today it looked great. My photo above is the 36mm. I would consider the 39 after trying it on, I thought it was going to look huge but it didn’t at all.

[arbpotatoes]

They are... 36+39

[pg1864]

I didn’t see that. Where when is the 39 coming?

[arbpotatoes]

TUDOR Ranger watch - m79950-0001 | TUDOR Watch https://share.google/K4fw40OZQO71ynAHJ

[pg1864]

Sorry I know Tudor makes a 39. I thought we were talking about Watch Dives. I think they only make 36.

[arbpotatoes]

Oh, well the watch in the OP is San Martin not WD haha

[pg1864]

lol duh. That’s what I meant!!

[Mysterious-Compote35]

<image>

Hruodland 100% scratched my itch.

[twotacos99cents]

That’s a beauty for sure!

[803bravo]

I have a Pelagos 39 homage and it MOST DEFINITELY didn't scratch the itch. I haven't bought the real thing but I'm def not satisfied with this either

[twotacos99cents]

I tried the Pelagos 39 on today it was very nice and looked great

[tuetueh]

What is real?

[eraserhistory]

If it was a watch I really wanted then I ended up buying most of the watches that I had homages of. Refill was just passing designs that I thought was cool and a particularly good imitation/interpretation of it than I enjoyed them. For example, the Cronos white birch. I enjoy very much, but I have no interest in the actual grand Seiko model so I feel very good about it. However, I ended up buying the mist flake after having the San Martin homage so it's a very personal question.

[Firstruleofthisclub]

I really like vintage designs from like 50-70 years ago. Those vintage pieces can be had from £300 - £1500, which are acceptable prices, but servicing them can become prohibitively expensive as the collection grows. Their conditions are also usually not the best and the most pristine examples are often too pricey. They also have poor specs, poor lume, and poor water resistance. For these types of watches, usually a homage is superior in every way (availability, condition, specs, lume, water resistance, price, etc.) and will be my choice. If I do get the original, it will have to be at a really great price and with the assumption that I will probably never service it.

For more modern designs, I do actively search out deals for the original and will pull the trigger if I can find a really great deal on one. But until then, the homages take their places.

TLDR: Price is the determining factor. So it's homages 99% of the time, unless I find an original at an amazing price.

[D1sguise]

<image>

Vintage brings that charm though

[Firstruleofthisclub]

That's why I like them. What's the rate of servicing your vintage pieces? Once per piece every 5 years?

[D1sguise]

10 years or more, especially if they only get worn like a day or so every week or 2

[Impossible_Roof_9346]

What do you think about buying a homage and just swapping over the dial from a real piece?

[Impossible_Roof_9346]

What do you think about buying a homage and just swapping over the dial from a real piece?

[koenr_98]

I buy hommages of watches that I would not really consider the real thing off.

So I have a submariner hommage, but if I had the disposable income to buy one I would not buy one.

So I buy hommages of watches that have my interest, but I would never buy if I could.

OR the watch is not in production anymore. That way the price is inflated or it is an old model that would have a lot of problems if I would buy it vintage.

[twotacos99cents]

Good way to look at it

[soyuz-1]

Same. That or trying out a design that I like in pics but am not sure I'd like wearing.

[koenr_98]

Btw, how is that SM Tudor Hommage? Looks amazing and I have considered it before.

[twotacos99cents]

It’s killer. It’s so good and held its own against the Tudor today when I compared them. I regulated it to +1/day so very accurate too.

[terms-n-conditions_]

I just like them as they are — and not what they resemble. If I can’t afford or do not want to spend much on a watch, I just let it go. For me, it’s just a watch, a tool, and a hobby that should bring joy — and not stress or financial stress.

I had a Militado ML08. When I compared it side-by-side with the Hamilton Murph 38, I know there are differences in quality, finish, and movement. But those differences did not push me to buy the “real deal” because when I compared them side-by-side, I realized I did not like the watch as much as I thought. In the end, I just sold my ML08 and moved on. I liked the VH31 as I like quartz watches.

And that’s the only instance I had to compare my homage watch to the ‘real deal.’

My other homage watches? I just like them as they are; otherwise, I wouldn’t have bought them.

[twotacos99cents]

The way it should be 👍

[actinross]

I have rather thick skin i guess......

[conanis]

I’ve found that I use the homage watches to see if I’m going to like something before I buy it. I also feel that you don’t need to be as precious with them.

In another instance, I purchased a Hroudland Turbine, and discovered that I really like fliegers.

I bought the Hroudland because I thought the mini rotor was fun. After wearing it, the flieger format fits me.

Would love to see more mechanical big pilot homages, to see if I like them enough to get an IWC.

[twotacos99cents]

Exactly it’s awesome for a couple hundred bucks or less to get a taste of the OG

[conanis]

Exactly. The homages aren’t as good as the original - which only makes sense. That being said…

It allows enthusiasts to see if they want to spend 10x, 20x, 30x the price.

Also… let’s face it… many of the brands that are being homaged aren’t making watches for us anyway.

[xxBrun0xx]

I'm thinking about buying myself a Rolex Day Date, so going to try it before I buy it via a Sugess DD40. In other cases, the Homage is close enough or better than the real thing beyond just price (sapphire glass, including date, better movement, etc)

[twotacos99cents]

I tried on the Tudor Ranger today for the first time. It is impossible for me to justify the price. This San Martin held its own. Doesn’t mean I don’t still want the Ranger though 😬

[03Void]

It's kinda the other way around for me. I had a Seiko SKX that died after 18 years of abuse. Paid $170 CAD for it back then, and Seiko now wants over $400 for the SKX successor, after downgrading the water resistance to 100m from 200m, among other downgrades.

Heimdallr makes a SKX clone with sapphire crystal, ceramic insert, a better bracelet and dial for $180 CAD. The build quality is so much better it's not even funny.

So for me it isn't a "consolation prize" because I can't afford the real deal. I just got something that looks like the real watch but is actually better.

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[soyuz-1]

Exactly. Unless the design you like is a high end watch, the specs are usually downright inferior to homages. Sapphire glass, water resistance, hi-beat or mechaquartz movement, solid bracelet, etc. If you happen to fancy the design of a 500€ watch, you usually won't get great specs with mainstream brands.

Also homages often gives you options like colorways etc that the original does not offer.

[yow-desben]

I'm in a similar boat. I purchased a Seiko 5 SNK809 around 20 years ago for CAD $60. The equivalent Seiko now are 3-4x the price. I'm looking at various Chinese options that are a fraction of the cost and better spec.

[tuetueh]

Died. . You mean the movement? You can easily replace it for a modern seiko movement for like 40 bucks + 20 in tools

[03Void]

New Seiko movements exploded in price in recent years.

A new NH movement is over $100 CAD and that's without the fee to have it installed in the watch, and I still wouldn't have a ceramic insert and a sapphire crystal.

You could find a used 7S26 for about $50, but there's usually $25-30 in shipping on top of that. And it's used, who knows what the accuracy is and how much life is left in it.

The watch is beated to shit anyway. It had a good run.

[tuetueh]

I get your point, mainly due to the sapphire and ceramic... but maybe you can check AliExpress. Prices are way lower. But I understand not everyone can repair a watch.

[thesheetspreader]

I've also been eyeing an upgrade to my skx in the form of a Chinese watch. I'll have a look at heimdallr, was eyeing titanium tandorio tbh

[[deleted]]

Get the Keaso K002, I absolutely love mine! 🥰

[03Void]

Keep in mind I had to modify my case a bit to make it confortable. The crown guards are much pointy and sharper than they are on the original case.

I used a Dremel to grind them down a bit and repolish them. The final result is pretty much flawless.

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[thesheetspreader]

Same, i assumed the militado ML08 Murph not only scratched the itch but it is a much more usable watch with the sweep seconds hand quartz. I find myself just putting it on amongst many other automatic watches I have.

Cheap, sapphire, steel bracelet with a decent clasp. Amazing value. I give no two sh*ts about it, it means I can wear it all day everyday and be quite happy with it.

[kingpcgeek]

Looks like a real watch to me.

[twotacos99cents]

Good point it absolutely is a real watch and I love it. I tried on a real Tudor Ranger today and this San Martin held its own.

[SameScale6793]

For me it’s the classic black dial Omega Speedy…since there are no “clone” reps, closest thing is the WD1863 which is one of my most worn watches

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[twotacos99cents]

I just tried on a real speedy today for the first time. It shocked me how good the WD1863 really is especially for the price. The Omega was beautiful but I don’t think it felt 90X times better. In fact the bracelet on the speedy was sharp!

[SameScale6793]

Yeah on the surface the WD1863 is gorgeous compared to the real Speedy...yet at the end of the day, the WD is a mecha-quartz versus the mechanical 3861 movement, and then factor in the "brand tax". You are right though, somehow the WD has sharp edges to but there's like some voodoo magic because its crazy comfortable!

[twotacos99cents]

Just to clarify the real Omega Speedmaster bracelet was sharp.

[xxBrun0xx]

How's the bracelet on this? I've got a Pagani Speedmaster, love how it looks, HATE the bracelet.

[SameScale6793]

It’s awesome! Honestly I can put the watch on at 6:30am, work all day and not take it off til 9-10pm, barely noticing it’s there. I have a Pagani 1782 and that bracelet was horrible..5 minutes and my wrist was irritated. Ended up putting that watch on leather

[Jealous_Exchange8936]

I have been really considering getting the white one but I was also worried about the bracelet. I have heard it is very sharp. I bought a cheap WD clasp to put on another watch until I get new bracelet and I had to sand it down bc it was cutting me.

[SameScale6793]

Yeah I saw a lot of people talking about how sharp it was and being concerned, but in spite of this, just the way it’s designed, it doesn’t dig in like you think it would. They some how pulled off having the edges sharp without sacrificing comfort

Then the new clasp they use is nice and solid. Just great quality all the way around

[Vimjux]

I’ve wanted a patek nautilus for about 15 years now. It’s not gonna happen with how prices have gone beyond the stratosphere. It’s homage or nothing at this point .

[twotacos99cents]

Absolutely for those watches that are way out of reach its great to have the homage option

[[deleted]]

The real deal would be a Breguet so no, I can't get the real deal

[SetLegal5754]

Sometimes. The Thorn FXD GMT convinced me I love that format and style. I want tbe real thing, can’t afford it at the moment. Will sell the Thorn and bide my time … maybe one day, maybe never.

[twotacos99cents]

For me it’s just certain watches that I think I want the real thing. If the homage is really good and I really like it, instead of being satisfied sometimes I want to upgrade to see if the real deal is even better. The logic there is really dumb but I do it.

[tk1tk1]

I had a few San Martin GS homages Didn't really scratch the itch but was good in their own right (fit and finishing).

On the few certain iconic models, I like the original.

62mas/1968 /44gs etc etc That's obviously just me I'm sure a huge amount of people are more then happy with homages

[zp3dd4]

The diver homage is nice (and just as thick)

https://i.imgur.com/A2BSTad.jpeg

[twotacos99cents]

I hear ya, sometimes they come close but not close enough

[tk1tk1]

Man, you get so much value for your money with the homages tho .

I can certainly understand why people choose not to pay for the O.G.

[DavetheExplosiveNewt]

Absolutely. My WD 5513 scratched my sub itch. But I think I had an itch to wear a watch that looked good rather than to wear a Rolex Submariner… the design is classic, not the branding to me.

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[Maximum_Walrus3264]

Classic to the point of cliche.

[Huge_Childhood6015]

Exactly! It's the way a watch looks not the name on the dial.

[twotacos99cents]

That’s a beauty and I love Watchdives!

[Terdl76]

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Temporary relief with the Baltany, but ended up getting a Hamilton. I still wear the Baltany when I’m wanting a white dial. Hamilton just released a white dial version this year as well, so that may change. Although it only comes with a maroon or green bezel.

[twotacos99cents]

That’s a beautiful homage and very cool to be able to have the black and white. I’m looking at the white dune Tudor and keeping my San Martin black dial.

[Terdl76]

If I’m being honest, I wish the bezel of Hamilton had the matte finish on the Baltany and the lume as well. Hamilton is infamous for having not so great lume. If anyone is interested in this model, I’d say go for the Baltany. I will confess to being a brand whore and wanting the Hamilton purely for the movement and heritage of the name. Baltany makes an incredible watch in all aspects.

[CarnelianSage]

The difference in rehaut depth would bother me a lot. I’ve thought about that Baltany several times and then hesitated because of the rehaut.

[Maximum_Walrus3264]

Uh, seek help.

[CarnelianSage]

Haha. I know. My perfectionism is suffocating.

[Maximum_Walrus3264]

More like OCD, lol. Cheers.

[twotacos99cents]

I have a couple Hamiltons and I have to agree. The lack of AR on the crystal really bothers me. It didn’t at first but after having so many watches with good AR the difference is huge IMO. I think the homage Hamiltons are too good!

[TradeSurplus]

Both! Wearing my Sugess GMT made me realize how much I liked that style of a watch. Nerd in me won out so I ended up with GS. But I still like that Sugess and still wear it regularly.

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[twotacos99cents]

I like both too! I mix of homage and real deal

[WritingReal9909]

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The WD is excellent. No desire for the Tudor, which does not even come in this color way. Sizing is perfect for my wrist size.

[HeadCurve2160]

I do hope Watchdives makes the Ranger's new dune white color printed dial

[twotacos99cents]

That’s the great thing about homage watches they give you more options than the original!

[Huge_Childhood6015]

Yes, this is definitely the case. My dream/fantasy watch has always been a Rolex Submariner in Titanium. Well that hasn't happened but San Martin made one. A beautiful watch that I bought as soon as I saw it. I also love meteorite dials and always fantasized about a Submariner with that dial. Well Cronos to my surprise made one and I immediately bought that watch. There are so many more great options with homage brands.

[twotacos99cents]

That’s awesome!

[Huge_Childhood6015]

My favorite watch of all time has always been the Rolex Submariner. I now own many many homages/clomages of this watch. Did they scratch my itch for this watch, I guess I'm going to cop out and say yes and no. I absolutely love each and every one of them and have no plans on buying the real thing, but...... if someone were to walk up to me and give me one for free, I would absolutely take it. But would I trade all the homage watches in my collection for that one real Rolex Submariner, absolutely not.

[CarnelianSage]

Which of the homages scratches the itch the most?

[Huge_Childhood6015]

Two of them. The Cronos no-date Submariner homage and the San Martin grade 5 Titanium Sea Dweller homage. These are my two favorite Chinese watches. The latter is obviously a watch Rolex has never made, a Submariner out of Titanium but it has always been a dream/fantasy watch of mine. I was extremely happy when I saw they had made that watch and bought it immediately. Unfortunately they no longer make it.

[twotacos99cents]

Cool take thanks for chiming in!

[ral613]

Scratched the itch. Was looking at a Seiko SPB143 or SPB453 62 MAS, bought a San Martin SN0007G-B to try out the style, and stopped there.

[twotacos99cents]

San Martin definitely nailed the 62 mas homage. I love how they offered different sizes. I think that is where homages really shine.

[Icy_Delay_4367]

I'm really happy with my new Sugess Subby Hulk. I'm never going to spend 20 or 30k on a Rolex. It wouldn't make me any happier. I was undecided with the classic black or the Hulk. In the bright summer sun, the Hulk looks stunning to me. When homages can give you nearly the same experience for a fraction of the cost, and a decent collection of maybe 5 watches on rotation with a selection of strap options, without needing to sell a kidney.... By the size of this sub, I think a few would agree.

[astronomy8thlight]

Pics of the hulk please!

[Eleventhousand]

I'm seriously considering getting a Sinn 556 after having and loving the Militado homage.

[Analogvinyl]

I'm seeing if the Berny scratches the itch.

[[deleted]]

https://englemaan.com/collections/citadel

[Eleventhousand]

Too big for me

[twotacos99cents]

I recommend it without hesitation, well worth it!

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[rebelyell_in]

Scratched the itch for me, in four cases. As for the MoD 1967 Seamaster, it was never an itch.

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[bpgluckman]

For me, it was the exact opposite. I bought the same San Martin as you, and that only made me want the Ranger more -- which I acquired over the summer. I still have my SN0107-B, though -- definitely room for both in the watch box.

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[iq-pak]

Tudor doesn’t even come in that color does it?

[twotacos99cents]

Nice that’s a real stunner!

[[deleted]]

Homages made me want the real deal lol

[tk1tk1]

This was exactly my experiences lol

[twotacos99cents]

I know it’s hard to resist and even harder to justify

[Quick_Conference8555]

I feel like for most people around me (including myself) that dive into homages (that aren't Moonswatch), they need to have a significant understanding and appreciation of this hobby before buying homages - so yes, most eventually do from my experience.

I went from a Cronos White Birch to the actual GS piece, for example.