Indeed!

How do you feel about this brand? Do you feel like it’s less than a more premium watch brand, or does the watch check all the boxes as far as finishing outside the movement (still okay).

Haha I just commented on your post and actually didn't recommend Lorier since someone else already did.

So honestly it's a very nice watch. I've had it less than a month. I would say the fit and finish are very good definitely above the ~$500 price point. I guess I would say better than say a $500 Seiko or Tissot. But honestly not so sure quite comparable to an Oris. Somewhere in between but again good for the price you pay.

The bracelet is very comfortable and drapes over the wrist very well. It's a comfortable watch.

Also to note it is a Hesalite crystal which I know for some is an automatic disqualifier. Of course there's going to be debate that there are some advantages to it being Hesalite vintage looks wise but sapphire wins the overall durability argument. I would have preferred sapphire but obviously that wasn't also a deal breaker for me personally. They do include a tube of poly watch with the purchase.

The design is exceptional, callbacks to lots of vintage watches while still standing on it's own.

This an amazing watch for the price. Would I call it a luxury watch? Not quite....premium yes so it might closer than you expect. Like I mentioned it may be priced like an affordable Seiko or Tissot but this nicer than that.

Amazing points. I watched teddy’s video just an hour ago on the crystal and not a deal breaker for me too.

This is my biggest issue. Do I spend $500 now. Love the watch, but still want something more (more expensive and more complete watch) later. Now I spent money on something that can’t really be sold at a profit or at least make my money back and once I did buy the right watch that one just sits there collecting dust.

I wear anything and not a brand snob, but when I’m on that hunt for that “special” item I feel like I just need to buy one I want and not waste my time and money lol.

About the movement I think the Miyota 9015 is definitely comparable and competitive to a Swiss ETA 2824 or clones like SW-200. Great workhorse movement usually considered more reliable than a Swiss counter part. Potential downside..Miyota is known for rotor whirl, its a unidirectional movement. Has not been noticeable on this watch for me so far. But I have other Miyota based watches where I do notice it. I also don't know if Lorier regulates the movement for improved accuracy which often microbrands do. But mine is within 6s per day but that's not guaranteed by the basic Miyota spec sheet.

Sometimes the heart wants what the heart wants. If it's within your budget I can tell you there really is a difference between a luxury watch and an affordable watch. But also a watch collector I personally think about the enjoyment I get out of the watch than the financial investment. If you're wearing it and enjoying it, in the end kinda the most important thing.

One recommendation I would give is with a bigger brand like Oris, go to a dealer, jewler etc and experience the potential candidate in the metal if you can. You might fall in love or you might realize it's not as exciting as you expected.

Unfortunately with a microbrand that's harder to do. Although my experience with microbrands has been very positive; experiencing a watch in person can make a big difference. So once you've narrowed down your choice do that as much as you can if you can.

Regarding Baltic and Monta. I don't own a Baltic so I really can't speak to their quality but they have built up a good reputation.

As for Monta, the Noble I recommended (Opaline Silver) is a watch I also own (I have too many watches 😂). But that watch is definitely a keeper. And Monta might be one of those few micros that will likely retain it's value. If you ask around enough you'll hear people say Monta is the Rolex of microbrands. At the very least they seem to be compared often. And yes unlike the Lorier I would consider Monta a luxury brand. This is also reflected in the price of a Monta. But honestly Monta still presents a great value when compared to the well known historical brands. It's a very refined experience, that usually requires you to look at a Tudor, Rolex, Omega etc...to find. It is in the same ballpark for a portion of the price.

That’s great to know.

I have a orrs dealer that has oris and will need to stop by. I’m in Pittsburgh and far from a watch town so these store keep just what they think people are buying (Rolex and Rolex haha). Love your advice.

Great shot of your #lorier astra, love the dial 👍🏼