Like a retro design? then look no further! We we have my first San Martin to add to my collection. This was sent in for review for my YouTube channel by AliExpress, I was asked to pick two watches from certain sellers. I had heard so much about San Martin and the quality they offer for the price but most of their watches are homages which is okay but this one caught my eye because it is an original design and looked so 70s to me. I have seen many Seiko’s from the 70s that have this interesting look.
What struck me first was the square layered case design with the round dial. Starting with the dial this has some interesting features like really well done applied markers with a combination of batons and Arabic numerals. Then there is the radial bushing band that makes the number track look recessed when in actual fact it is all on the same plain. The hands are bushed on top with high polished sides and the second hand is capped in the middle and linier brushing has been applied to a very high standard!
It is the case finishing that is what separates this brand from many of its competitors. Just look at the photo above. There is a combination of linier brushing on the lugs, high polished facets at the end of the lugs. the combination of high polished and brushed on the bezel itself. The polished screws give it an interesting look. I think they are mainly decorative especially to achieve the perfect alignment however the bezel is clearly a different piece of steel from the case itself so it does beg the question on are the screws functional.
Here is the side view of the case again showing perfect brushing and a lovely signed crown that is octangular in shape all with applied brushing on each flat. I personally like that is its different to the move conventional crowns but of course design is subjective to the viewer.
Here is the bracelet, all 9 separate links. All solid stainless steel with screw pins for adjustment. I really love the bracelet on this one again the finish is sharp and a good combination of brushed and polished finishes.
This watch is powered by a PT5000 movement which is a Chinese clone of the ETA 2824. Now its my first time encountering this movement and I was sceptical at first but I was proved wrong. It is a 28,800 VPH high beat movement that is running within 10 seconds a day without deviation in any positions. I cannot vouch for its longevity and if I can get my hands on a ETA2824 in the future I may do a side by side comparison as this would be an interesting subject to compare.
If you like this watch you can pick one up from the AliExpress official San Martin store, if you use my links below to get you to AliExpress and use RETROWATCH ( in capitals) at checkout you will get $20 off each $200 you spend. https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_9vyIgF
Currently retailing at $268.00
You can watch my review here
Here are some photos of my watch. I have been wearing this one ALLOT!
