GUANQIN GJ16034 Review
The other day I was looking for an NH36 movement on a well-know Asian web site. As I was searching, an offer came up to buy a watch with that movement for about $25 more than the cost of the movement itself. I was intrigued ...
3 weeks later a small package arrived. Inside was a neat little box with instructions, something that looked like a fantasy warranty card, a cleaning cloth and a small punch for the bracelet pins, aside from the watch itself.
The watch has a 40mm case diameter, and due to the small bezel appears to have a really large dial. The dial itself is tastefully designed, the indices are where they are supposed to be, the day/date window has a bezel and a frame, and the dial face has a slight sunburst effect. I could not detect any QC issues with the dial. The manufacturer claims the crystal is sapphire.
The bracelet had large center links with small end links. Every metal surface on this watch is polished and not brushed, so the appearance was extremely "blingy". This had to have been the hardest bracelet I ever adjusted, as both the pin sleeve, plus two spaces along the center links detach when removing the pin, and that is if you are able to remove the pin. (I'd pay money to watch somebody try that with the tool provided.) There are no micro-adjustments, so the fit of the bracelet may not be ideal.
Otherwise the watch is about 6 seconds a day fast, and it functions as it should, even though I've had watches with a better feel that had the same movement. (And yes, it is an NH36.)
I might just get a grey leather strap and keep the watch, as the dial itself is not bad at all. However, I can't keep making the same "mistake" when ordering a watch movement.
GUANQIN GJ16034 Review
Yes
No
- Great Value Overall
- Dial finishing better than expected
- Decent movement at this price
- Bracelet that is hard to adjust
- Gritty feel when adjusting the watch
- Polished and no brushed surfaces
I finally took a look at the dial with a loupe. It is absolutely clean, and not a QC issue to be found. The machining of the date window beveling could be a little better. But I think the point is moot: Watch watch that sells at $66 even has a beveled date window?
This watch is an absolute gem and great buy! I bought this watch almost 3 years ago and it's working really well and keeps time excellent. I hand brushed the top of the case lugs and installed a fully brushed oyster bracelet that tapers to 16mm at the clasp. This watch is now a keeper and lifer! Great review 🤙🏽