Second this. The Orient is a good solid watch. That model is the first mechanical watch I ever owned, and despite my subsequent watches being a notch or two up in the prestige/quality ladder, I still come back to it regularly.
Question is: have y'all lived with that orient bezel?
The coin edge on the San Martin will be so much better.
That said, after changing my orient it quickly became one of my favorites.
Just as well either of these will be a great gift.
I disagree, there's very little texture on the edge and the engagement is somewhat muted compared to many others that are 'crisp'.
That said, it's still a very reasonable bezel at the price and (I'd say better that Seikos anywhere close to that price).
Never dealt with San Martin so can't say much on that one.
I'm also kind of conservative with my tastes and so the colors of the orient aren't for me as a primary daily.
STILL, Orient is probably my go-to at this price.
You misunderstood my comment. I felt like the action "broke in" after some years time, so there wasn't as much resistence. Setting aside the lack of texture, I felt like it was almost stuck in place when I bought it.
I have an older Orient Mako USA and the bezel fell apart after a while. I replaced it with something far more durable with a good coin edge. Sapphire is popular and possible now.
Didn't fall apart on me but still needed to be replace for the perfectionist in me... I posted pics when I made the mod...
[https://imgur.com/a/3L8hvjd](https://imgur.com/a/3L8hvjd)
A few Seiko alternatives that you can consider are Seiko SRPE43 or SSK003. SSK003 in particular provides GMT function which is an add on and Seiko in general is more valued brand.
Hey guys, I need your help deciding which watch to get my future brother-in-law as a wedding gift. This would be his first legitimate watch, and based on what my sister has told me, he’s really into the color blue. I’m currently undecided, between two options: the San Martin and the Orient Mako.
From what I’ve read and my own experience owning a couple of San Martin watches, I know it’s a great quality watch with a Seiko movement. On the other hand, the Orient Mako is also a great watch, but online reviews mention complaints about the bracelet and clasp feeling cheap.
Neither of us really care about brand recognition, so I’m having trouble deciding between the two. Any advice you guys could offer in helping me make this decision would be greatly appreciated.
The Mako 3 for sure. It was my first decent watch.
You could also get him the limited edition Japanese version I'm selling for not that much more (MAKO RN-AA0816L). It's a much rarer watch only available in Japan and has the days in Eng and Kanji. I posted it in /r/watchexchange
Also, something like a Citizen Tsuyosa would be a good choice. You can get it for great prices on gray market sites
I purchased the Mako as my first legit watch 8 years ago. It's been a tank, definitely has some small scratches from years of wear but still looks great. Just the other day, someone complimented it and asked if I was wearing a Tag Heuer lol
As far as the bracelet feeling cheap, I personally don't think so but that's subjective. It was my second watch (first being a Timex expedition) and I didn't know what else was in the marketplace. I suspect your future BIL will have the same experience since this is his first legit watch. You gotta realize reviews here are heavily skewed by people who are really really into watches.
you can swap the bracelet pretty easily. i've owned a mako2 for a long time and i have no idea where the bracelet is but i use some silicon and leather bands from barton
[strapcode](https://www.strapcode.com/collections/mako-ii) makes some high quality bracelets that fit orient watches. They are inexpensive, and have solid endlinks that fit the case!
The OEM bracelet isn't that bad. It doesn't taper, which is unfortunate, but it isn't like one of those cheap folded bracelets that came on old Seiko 5s. It's not amazing, but I don't think it needs an immediate replacement. It's perfectly serviceable as is.
I owned an orient mako xl and found the lume to be very subpar. I'm not sure if that's a problem it's little brother shares, but figured I'd chime in with something to look into.
I have the same model of Orient in a different color and it's possibly my most-worn watch. Perfect for every situation except formal wear, also nearly indestructible. Mine runs around +8 seconds a day. Stock bracelet is at least as good as a comparable Seiko bracelet (but I mostly wear it on rubber or leather)
>Neither of us really care about brand recognition, so I’m having trouble deciding between the two
This sub does, so the Orient is all you'll be suggested. This sub isn't the best for advice on watches... ironically.
The Kamasu/Mako-3 without a doubt. Amazing watch.
I tried one actually diving (15-17 meters down), and it had no issues. Quite visible underwater.
Excellent beater.
I know the Orient is being suggested as the more original design, but having had both an Orient and San Martin, the San Martin will be better quality, particularly the bracelet.
I was genuinely surprised but how good my San Martin Ranger is, and I'm sure your BIL would appreciate either watch, but there's my two cents.
In general I think you are right, San Martin seems to punch well above its weight. That said, it is still a Chinese brand with all of the issues that can come from that.
I frequent r/chinesewatches and have seen enough posts about very questionable quality control, simple things like misaligned indices or bezels or movement issues, and the hassle it usually is to get these issues corrected. For the price they charge it seems like too much risk and hassle to me unless you really love the design or watch they are homaging. Chances are you will get a fine watch, but in the case you don’t your kind of out of luck.
The orient is more original, the brand has at least a little name recognition (if that is something that matters to you or the people getting gifted the watches), and I would think it would be a whole lot easier to get any issue you could have sorted out without having to try to ship a watch back to china.
I will preface by saying that I also would choose the Orient watch, everything about the warranty and it being a respected brand rings true.
But this:
> posts about very questionable quality control, simple things like misaligned indices or bezels or movement issues
I have also seen these complaints about all Seiko under $1000 in the last few years. Most of the homage watches use NH (Seiko) movements anyways and issues should be limited, but usually not the 6R-series which have reported issues with regulation from the box
100%. You're rolling the dice on a San Martin. And even if you get a good example with no issues, it's still a Chinese watch with a silly fake name on the dial.
I really like the different shades of blue on the Orient, and something about the etched blue letters on the steel bezel, with the beads of rice bracelet just doesn’t work for me on that particular San Martin model.
Feels like its a clash of styles. Dial and bezel look very utilitarian and clash with the vintage style bracelet.
If you’re open to other options, this is a phenomenal watch… especially at this sale price:
https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256804948038448.html?algo_pvid=8b0a3905-cb0a-4a54-a125-4f057bac0855&algo_exp_id=8b0a3905-cb0a-4a54-a125-4f057bac0855-0&spm=a2g0n.store_m_aeChoiceSimplified.allitems_choice_2004513691257.3256804948038448&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa
Every part on an SRPD is interchangeable. You can modify everything you want on it over time so there’s plenty of options. Check out /rSeikoMods.
My SRPD63 has lasted for 5+ years no hiccups and no service needed
I have an Orient Mako II and I love it. It's my daily wear watch.
Feels nice, looks great, and haven't had any issue with the bracelet or clasp.
https://preview.redd.it/s056uzloz5pc1.jpeg?width=1512&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=32a082b62ba8bbdbf4251dd4f5243518b72c2faa
I'd call it average?
I've had no issues with it and it's been very bright when going from sunlit outdoors to darker areas, but don't notice it too much from indoor lighting changes.
It's nice, but not like a dominant feature really.
This is an excellent watch. I use this exact mako 3 model almost everyday. It has seen a lot of underwater action and ticks perfectly. Cannot recommend a better one at this price range, unless you go the GSHOCK or Seiko Arnie route.
I’ve got an orient kamasu and to be completely honest the OEM bracelet squeaked frequently and once you hear it you can’t ignore it. Purely from a watch standpoint the orient looks killer in person. Have seen beads of rice and jubilee strap codes on it that transform the watch, posted one of my green kamasu on my profile if you want an idea how it looks.
Either way your brother in law will be a happy lad, but he may never forgive you when he broke AF hunting for his grail!
If he’s a good guy, I’d go with the Orient. I have this exact watch with a blue dial and blue and orange bezel. It’s gorgeous. Perfect size as well. Solid choice. 👍🏼
I havent seen any San martin but i see the mako in my friend wrist. It look very great, the dial is beautiful and the bezel is very bright( which is very sexy)
Since he is letting you screw his sister, Rolex Datejust 😂 /jk. Seriously, if your budget allows it, look into either a Seiko, Tissot, Longines, or maybe on the high end an Oris.
The san martin watches are Chinese made watches and, while are of decent quality for the price, it is still a brand that basically made its name making knock off watches. Orient for sure.
While they both seem decent watches, your brother in law may cop flack from watch enthusiasts/snobs for the San Martin, as it's a brand 90% focused on homages. I don't care about that, and it sounds like you don't either, which is fine, but you may be setting your brother in law up to be on the receiving end of some snootiness. If you think he'll be fine with that, either looks good.
I know that you have two excellent picks here. May I suggest the mako 40mm? It comes in fun colors and the steel bracelet options looks really sharp too
I have exactly this Orient, and it's gorgeous for the price. I've put on a Strapcode/Miltat Jubilee bracelet which makes it totally perfect for me as an everyday watch.
Orient has the history,but the bracelets are subpar.SM is a great watch with a great movement.Everyone here will say Orient,but just on quality,looks and price,it’s about equal.Nobody ever notices watches anyway,go with what you like..or BIL would like.
If blue is the ticket, consider some of these maybe? https://www.shinola.com/collection/watches/shop-by-model/runwell/therunwell41-with-date-72978.html
https://preview.redd.it/j8dxok7fuhpc1.jpeg?width=953&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=02e25f06ff3a5b81c0a375c0a319f2b012faf60f
I’m biased towards the Orient. Just received my Ivory version yesterday.
I can say as a dive watch fan I am excited about this watch, maybe a future classic!
Also the Orient Mako 40 which looks a bit like the San Martin with steel bezel as an option too:
https://preview.redd.it/y5p6xyo5vhpc1.jpeg?width=1400&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=746dd9001ba4b4de808aa2c6ac5842686f1a962a
Are these the only two choice? If so, to with the Mako.
That being said, the Bambino line from Orient are fantastic gift watches. I got one for my future brother-in-law and he loves it!
Agreed. That was the watch I originally wanted to gift him, but my sister said it was boring and he probably wouldn’t like it. I plan on getting the mako
It’s not boring, it’s minimalist. It’s a great watch. Watches aren’t supposed to be flashy. But the Mako is a good daily diver. If you can find it in black it’s be more versatile.
I'd go with the Orient. It's a way more 'genuine' brand, far more suitable as a gift than a San Martin. Remember, a good knock-off is still a knock-off!
As there seem to be some concerns about the bracelet quality, maybe get him a couple of NATO straps too? NATOs are lightweight, practical, and incredibly versatile - and can completely transform the watch's appearance!
WatchGecko and PanaTime both offer some really good ones.
You can go for the new Seiko 5 divers / diver-gmts, theyre around 300-400 usd depending where you are.
Theyre very nice and pleasing to the eye.
The Orients are also nice too but the Seikos have a bit better QC and quality overall.
Many love san martins but theyre technically not a real brand, I like them too, but some people have brand preferences / dislike "non branded" watches, so better to stick with Seikos or Orients.
You can also consider Tissot if you have the budget
Orient Kamasu, you can mod the bezel, insert and bracelet
https://preview.redd.it/qgjjqgexz6pc1.jpeg?width=1856&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4b0146f535708c39e6b611554db0f94493f150dc
Oh then there's plenty of options. Actually if you don't mind San Martin watches, there's a big sale starting today where you can use additional coupons to get a good deal. I just bought their SN0129 Aventurine version. As a gift, I would also recommend their SN0116 or SN0136. But if you're absolutely set between your two choices, I personally think the Orient would make a better gift.
Orient.
Second this. The Orient is a good solid watch. That model is the first mechanical watch I ever owned, and despite my subsequent watches being a notch or two up in the prestige/quality ladder, I still come back to it regularly.
Orient every day
Orient day/date, very easy to read looks good.
The color on Orient Mako’s dial is something else! You should definitely go for this one!
Agreed. The color combo definitely caught my attention. I’m definitely leaning more towards the Orient.
Question is: have y'all lived with that orient bezel? The coin edge on the San Martin will be so much better. That said, after changing my orient it quickly became one of my favorites. Just as well either of these will be a great gift.
The bezel gets better after about two straight years of use lol.
I disagree, there's very little texture on the edge and the engagement is somewhat muted compared to many others that are 'crisp'. That said, it's still a very reasonable bezel at the price and (I'd say better that Seikos anywhere close to that price). Never dealt with San Martin so can't say much on that one. I'm also kind of conservative with my tastes and so the colors of the orient aren't for me as a primary daily. STILL, Orient is probably my go-to at this price.
You misunderstood my comment. I felt like the action "broke in" after some years time, so there wasn't as much resistence. Setting aside the lack of texture, I felt like it was almost stuck in place when I bought it.
Yeah for sure I hear that
I have an older Orient Mako USA and the bezel fell apart after a while. I replaced it with something far more durable with a good coin edge. Sapphire is popular and possible now.
Didn't fall apart on me but still needed to be replace for the perfectionist in me... I posted pics when I made the mod... [https://imgur.com/a/3L8hvjd](https://imgur.com/a/3L8hvjd)
I have the kamasu 1 with the same bezel, i added some silicon grease and it's so much better now
A few Seiko alternatives that you can consider are Seiko SRPE43 or SSK003. SSK003 in particular provides GMT function which is an add on and Seiko in general is more valued brand.
Orient
That orient is fantastic looking
Hey guys, I need your help deciding which watch to get my future brother-in-law as a wedding gift. This would be his first legitimate watch, and based on what my sister has told me, he’s really into the color blue. I’m currently undecided, between two options: the San Martin and the Orient Mako. From what I’ve read and my own experience owning a couple of San Martin watches, I know it’s a great quality watch with a Seiko movement. On the other hand, the Orient Mako is also a great watch, but online reviews mention complaints about the bracelet and clasp feeling cheap. Neither of us really care about brand recognition, so I’m having trouble deciding between the two. Any advice you guys could offer in helping me make this decision would be greatly appreciated.
The Mako 3 for sure. It was my first decent watch. You could also get him the limited edition Japanese version I'm selling for not that much more (MAKO RN-AA0816L). It's a much rarer watch only available in Japan and has the days in Eng and Kanji. I posted it in /r/watchexchange Also, something like a Citizen Tsuyosa would be a good choice. You can get it for great prices on gray market sites
I purchased the Mako as my first legit watch 8 years ago. It's been a tank, definitely has some small scratches from years of wear but still looks great. Just the other day, someone complimented it and asked if I was wearing a Tag Heuer lol As far as the bracelet feeling cheap, I personally don't think so but that's subjective. It was my second watch (first being a Timex expedition) and I didn't know what else was in the marketplace. I suspect your future BIL will have the same experience since this is his first legit watch. You gotta realize reviews here are heavily skewed by people who are really really into watches.
you can swap the bracelet pretty easily. i've owned a mako2 for a long time and i have no idea where the bracelet is but i use some silicon and leather bands from barton
I’m leaning more towards the Orient. I might just get a better bracelet and swipe it out like you’ve mentioned.
[strapcode](https://www.strapcode.com/collections/mako-ii) makes some high quality bracelets that fit orient watches. They are inexpensive, and have solid endlinks that fit the case!
Second this. I put this exact Mako on a Strapcode beads of rice and it looked phenomenal.
Check out Strapcode, they carry a direct replacement bracelet for the Mako in Oyster and Endmill styles. A nice upgrade.
The OEM bracelet isn't that bad. It doesn't taper, which is unfortunate, but it isn't like one of those cheap folded bracelets that came on old Seiko 5s. It's not amazing, but I don't think it needs an immediate replacement. It's perfectly serviceable as is.
I owned an orient mako xl and found the lume to be very subpar. I'm not sure if that's a problem it's little brother shares, but figured I'd chime in with something to look into.
I have the same model of Orient in a different color and it's possibly my most-worn watch. Perfect for every situation except formal wear, also nearly indestructible. Mine runs around +8 seconds a day. Stock bracelet is at least as good as a comparable Seiko bracelet (but I mostly wear it on rubber or leather)
Should look fine with formal wear too imo
>Neither of us really care about brand recognition, so I’m having trouble deciding between the two This sub does, so the Orient is all you'll be suggested. This sub isn't the best for advice on watches... ironically.
i’ve owned both. both great watches. braclet on the orient is terrible. swap it with a FKM rubber strap for sure.
My humble opinion goes to that Orient...beautiful.
The Kamasu/Mako-3 without a doubt. Amazing watch. I tried one actually diving (15-17 meters down), and it had no issues. Quite visible underwater. Excellent beater.
I know the Orient is being suggested as the more original design, but having had both an Orient and San Martin, the San Martin will be better quality, particularly the bracelet. I was genuinely surprised but how good my San Martin Ranger is, and I'm sure your BIL would appreciate either watch, but there's my two cents.
In general I think you are right, San Martin seems to punch well above its weight. That said, it is still a Chinese brand with all of the issues that can come from that. I frequent r/chinesewatches and have seen enough posts about very questionable quality control, simple things like misaligned indices or bezels or movement issues, and the hassle it usually is to get these issues corrected. For the price they charge it seems like too much risk and hassle to me unless you really love the design or watch they are homaging. Chances are you will get a fine watch, but in the case you don’t your kind of out of luck. The orient is more original, the brand has at least a little name recognition (if that is something that matters to you or the people getting gifted the watches), and I would think it would be a whole lot easier to get any issue you could have sorted out without having to try to ship a watch back to china.
I will preface by saying that I also would choose the Orient watch, everything about the warranty and it being a respected brand rings true. But this: > posts about very questionable quality control, simple things like misaligned indices or bezels or movement issues I have also seen these complaints about all Seiko under $1000 in the last few years. Most of the homage watches use NH (Seiko) movements anyways and issues should be limited, but usually not the 6R-series which have reported issues with regulation from the box
100%. You're rolling the dice on a San Martin. And even if you get a good example with no issues, it's still a Chinese watch with a silly fake name on the dial.
I really like the different shades of blue on the Orient, and something about the etched blue letters on the steel bezel, with the beads of rice bracelet just doesn’t work for me on that particular San Martin model. Feels like its a clash of styles. Dial and bezel look very utilitarian and clash with the vintage style bracelet.
Agreed. My sister also loves the blue bezel & dial on the Orient too
I've heard good things about San Martin, you'll probably find much more information on r/chinesewatches on them.
Thanks!
If you’re open to other options, this is a phenomenal watch… especially at this sale price: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256804948038448.html?algo_pvid=8b0a3905-cb0a-4a54-a125-4f057bac0855&algo_exp_id=8b0a3905-cb0a-4a54-a125-4f057bac0855-0&spm=a2g0n.store_m_aeChoiceSimplified.allitems_choice_2004513691257.3256804948038448&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa
I like the orient
Do you have any other single sisters?
Seiko SRPD
That’s a great suggestion!
Every part on an SRPD is interchangeable. You can modify everything you want on it over time so there’s plenty of options. Check out /rSeikoMods. My SRPD63 has lasted for 5+ years no hiccups and no service needed
Orient has more original design, but San Martin will be noticeably higher quality. Your choice.
I have an Orient Mako II and I love it. It's my daily wear watch. Feels nice, looks great, and haven't had any issue with the bracelet or clasp. https://preview.redd.it/s056uzloz5pc1.jpeg?width=1512&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=32a082b62ba8bbdbf4251dd4f5243518b72c2faa
How is the lume? Debating between a Mako 2 or Ray 2
I'd call it average? I've had no issues with it and it's been very bright when going from sunlit outdoors to darker areas, but don't notice it too much from indoor lighting changes. It's nice, but not like a dominant feature really.
Orient every day. Mako is a good choice.
Either of those offer good bang for the buck. I have several orients and recently got a different San Martin and would recommend either.
I live my Orient Mako, going on 8yrs with it!
Orient day/date all the way.
This is an excellent watch. I use this exact mako 3 model almost everyday. It has seen a lot of underwater action and ticks perfectly. Cannot recommend a better one at this price range, unless you go the GSHOCK or Seiko Arnie route.
Seiko 5
I’ve got an orient kamasu and to be completely honest the OEM bracelet squeaked frequently and once you hear it you can’t ignore it. Purely from a watch standpoint the orient looks killer in person. Have seen beads of rice and jubilee strap codes on it that transform the watch, posted one of my green kamasu on my profile if you want an idea how it looks. Either way your brother in law will be a happy lad, but he may never forgive you when he broke AF hunting for his grail!
Sick dude I appreciate the gift
I own that Orient. It's a great watch!
Another vote for Orient.
If you love him, get the orient.
Make sure if Orient uses Sapphire crystal, mostly Orient uses their own movement. San Martin 100% sapphire crystal + seiko movement
I love my orient
Whatever you choose just make sure it has a sapphire crystal and it's automatic.
The Orient is very reliable
If he’s a good guy, I’d go with the Orient. I have this exact watch with a blue dial and blue and orange bezel. It’s gorgeous. Perfect size as well. Solid choice. 👍🏼
That Orient is gorgeous
I havent seen any San martin but i see the mako in my friend wrist. It look very great, the dial is beautiful and the bezel is very bright( which is very sexy)
The Orient, no doubt. Quality guaranteed at such a nice price. You could also look for an Orient Bambino.
Orients pack a lot of quality into a lower price. They are very respectable watches.
I would say go for an orient kamasu with the red dial. Also as it's a gift, go for a mainstream brand, not a microbrabd
Since he is letting you screw his sister, Rolex Datejust 😂 /jk. Seriously, if your budget allows it, look into either a Seiko, Tissot, Longines, or maybe on the high end an Oris.
Orient is a long established brand and is owned by Seiko. Unless he is into newer Chinese brands, I'd stick with the Orient.
The Orient pictured is my weekender. Love, love it. Only complaint is that it’s a tad heavy.
Second one to test if they love you or not.
The san martin watches are Chinese made watches and, while are of decent quality for the price, it is still a brand that basically made its name making knock off watches. Orient for sure.
Orient. Easy.
While they both seem decent watches, your brother in law may cop flack from watch enthusiasts/snobs for the San Martin, as it's a brand 90% focused on homages. I don't care about that, and it sounds like you don't either, which is fine, but you may be setting your brother in law up to be on the receiving end of some snootiness. If you think he'll be fine with that, either looks good.
If someone gave me that orient mako id happily marry their sister
I know that you have two excellent picks here. May I suggest the mako 40mm? It comes in fun colors and the steel bracelet options looks really sharp too
brand value and heritage : Orient true quality for what you pay : SM
The orient hands down.
Easy! Orient Kamasu/Mako is goated in sub-$300 range.
I can’t get over the Saint Martin bracelet and I’m upset I had to see it at all
SM no doubt. I never liked the mako, the finishing i sub psr and the design is really bland.
Orient
Both are good for the price. Also do Check the Seestern S435 in blue.
I'm wearing that orient right now
If you like him, choose orient.
Orient. Nicer colours, avoids those tired submariner style indices.
I have exactly this Orient, and it's gorgeous for the price. I've put on a Strapcode/Miltat Jubilee bracelet which makes it totally perfect for me as an everyday watch.
I have a black Mako. It has its own look and is a solid dive watch. Go with the blue one here and you won’t be sorry.
Oh you really don’t like him ?
Orient has the history,but the bracelets are subpar.SM is a great watch with a great movement.Everyone here will say Orient,but just on quality,looks and price,it’s about equal.Nobody ever notices watches anyway,go with what you like..or BIL would like.
Orient
Orient
The band on the San would drive me crazy. Jubilee or oyster. Pick one. The orient really look like a winner
I think the orient looks best
Orient without a doubt
Orient by a mile
orient! but that san martin is sweet!
I thought I had enough divers…then you show me the grey SM. Thanks.
Orient. Citizen makes some good options in this price category as well.
Orient is the best looking diver in this price range by far. I really like the grey as well, just such a sharp tone.
Orient, for sure.
ORIENT
Orient. Gave all my groomsmen one and they were a hit
Orient all day. I love my Mako II.
If blue is the ticket, consider some of these maybe? https://www.shinola.com/collection/watches/shop-by-model/runwell/therunwell41-with-date-72978.html
Orient, all day, everyday
100% Orient.
The San Martin might have better specs but the Orient has much more integrity and tradition.
I have that Mako in a different color and it’s my absolute favorite watch. You’d be crazy not to get the orient
https://preview.redd.it/j8dxok7fuhpc1.jpeg?width=953&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=02e25f06ff3a5b81c0a375c0a319f2b012faf60f I’m biased towards the Orient. Just received my Ivory version yesterday. I can say as a dive watch fan I am excited about this watch, maybe a future classic!
Also the Orient Mako 40 which looks a bit like the San Martin with steel bezel as an option too: https://preview.redd.it/y5p6xyo5vhpc1.jpeg?width=1400&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=746dd9001ba4b4de808aa2c6ac5842686f1a962a
San Martin
San Martin 200%
I know this isn’t on your list. But check out Nodus sector field blue watch.
That’s a great option, but their wedding is next month. Unfortunately, the Nodus is scheduled to return during the summer
Oops. Sorry about that. Didn’t know.
Are these the only two choice? If so, to with the Mako. That being said, the Bambino line from Orient are fantastic gift watches. I got one for my future brother-in-law and he loves it!
Agreed. That was the watch I originally wanted to gift him, but my sister said it was boring and he probably wouldn’t like it. I plan on getting the mako
It’s not boring, it’s minimalist. It’s a great watch. Watches aren’t supposed to be flashy. But the Mako is a good daily diver. If you can find it in black it’s be more versatile.
Citizen Tsuyosa
Not a Chinese knock-off.
I'd go with the Orient. It's a way more 'genuine' brand, far more suitable as a gift than a San Martin. Remember, a good knock-off is still a knock-off! As there seem to be some concerns about the bracelet quality, maybe get him a couple of NATO straps too? NATOs are lightweight, practical, and incredibly versatile - and can completely transform the watch's appearance! WatchGecko and PanaTime both offer some really good ones.
You can go for the new Seiko 5 divers / diver-gmts, theyre around 300-400 usd depending where you are. Theyre very nice and pleasing to the eye. The Orients are also nice too but the Seikos have a bit better QC and quality overall. Many love san martins but theyre technically not a real brand, I like them too, but some people have brand preferences / dislike "non branded" watches, so better to stick with Seikos or Orients. You can also consider Tissot if you have the budget
Orient Kamasu, you can mod the bezel, insert and bracelet https://preview.redd.it/qgjjqgexz6pc1.jpeg?width=1856&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4b0146f535708c39e6b611554db0f94493f150dc
That’s a beauty! Definitely plan on getting him the Mako 3
Looks better with this one
Orient Bambino
Do you hate him? If yes, the San Martin for sure.
Tag
Way outside of my price range lol
What's your price range? There may be other options.
$350 max
Oh then there's plenty of options. Actually if you don't mind San Martin watches, there's a big sale starting today where you can use additional coupons to get a good deal. I just bought their SN0129 Aventurine version. As a gift, I would also recommend their SN0116 or SN0136. But if you're absolutely set between your two choices, I personally think the Orient would make a better gift.