My New Monta Skyquest
New watch alert! Introducing one of my most anticipated additions to the collection. I have been considering a Monta Skyquest for a few years so when they announced the new generation Skyquest last year, I watched with great anticipation. Although not convinced at first by the new model, I visited Monta last October, experienced a pre-release Skyquest and fell in love. 6 months later I have the Skyquest on the wrist and man, it is awesome! This one addresses all the design improvements I hoped for in the previous model. The improved clasp wraps around the wrist better and improves the already incredibly comfortable bracelet. The size and the fit are perfect. Based on how many pictures I’ve taken of this one over the last few days, you’ll be seeing more of it.
Reflections on the process of choosing and enjoying watches. Collector of the Glycine Airman. Based out of St. Paul, Minnesota.
At first sight, not a fan at all of this watch (hands shape, bezel, etc.), but the fact that you got to see it and get hands-on with it prior to purchase is the main point here. Whenever possible it is the right thing to do, it can make or break a watch for you.
At first sight, not a fan at all of this watch (hands shape, bezel, etc.), but the fact that you got to see it and get hands-on with it prior to purchase is the main point here. Whenever possible it is the right thing to do, it can make or break a watch for you.
I totally get that. I acquired a Monta Oceanking no date gilt first and the quality fit and finish is what first captured my interest as the design grew on me. This one brings everything I liked about the Oceanking but adds a more interesting bezel, GMT functionality, an improved date window over the previous generation and a more rounded clasp that fits better on the wrist while still offering on the fly adjustability. Sometimes a brand just has to grow on you for awhile. Monta is one of my favorites.
I totally get that. I acquired a Monta Oceanking no date gilt first and the quality fit and finish is what first captured my interest as the design grew on me. This one brings everything I liked about the Oceanking but adds a more interesting bezel, GMT functionality, an improved date window over the previous generation and a more rounded clasp that fits better on the wrist while still offering on the fly adjustability. Sometimes a brand just has to grow on you for awhile. Monta is one of my favorites.
Hows the bracelet? I've read time and time again that Montas bracelets are leading class for the price point
Hows the bracelet? I've read time and time again that Montas bracelets are leading class for the price point
I love the bracelet. It's very comfortable and the new clasp is more rounded so it hugs the wrist a little better. Monta was making their bracelet with the on-the-fly adjustment capability before other larger brands like Tudor came around to it for non-diver models. The bracelet is definitely one of the reasons to own a Monta.
Congratulations, excellent pickup! I make no secret of my admiration of the brand, especially around quality. I have the last version of this and it is a heck of a watch.
You can use the GMT hand to keep track of when the Vikings kick off in London! SKOL!
Welcome to the club! I have a pink Noble and I love it. It gets more complements than my Omega Aqua Terra.
What I dislike about this new gen is that Monta had it’s own unique design with the previous Skyquest, and this new one looks like they just wanted something to look more like a Rolex, they kinda lost their identity IMHO. But it looks great though, and congrats on your new watch, Monta’s finishing is spot on!
What I dislike about this new gen is that Monta had it’s own unique design with the previous Skyquest, and this new one looks like they just wanted something to look more like a Rolex, they kinda lost their identity IMHO. But it looks great though, and congrats on your new watch, Monta’s finishing is spot on!
I get that and I felt the same way at first. Once I tried one on, however, it felt very Monta to me. I had the same handset that they've used all along on every model but the Noble. It featured the same case shape they have developed. The markings were very similar to before but wider and more pronounced. The date window is at 6 o'clock like Monta has always done it but this time it's built into the spot where the hour marker would go instead of placed above it. The bracelet is an improved version of their previous design. Basically, the only thing GMT Master about it is the blue/red bezel. Obviously, that's inspired by Rolex but so are a ton of other watches. I've definitely seen derivative copies of Rolex ad nauseam but Monta feels more like a brand that has developed their own style and continues to iterate upon it, using inspiration from Rolex without outright copying the brand.
Love the pics of the new Skyquest! Like you, I also got to see a couple of pre-release versions of it when I was at HQ getting some links for my Ocean King. I haven't pulled trigger on a Monta GMT just yet, but the more I see them, the more I feel my Noble and Ocean King may need some company in my collection haha. Hope you wear this piece in great health and on some killer vacations!
Love the pics of the new Skyquest! Like you, I also got to see a couple of pre-release versions of it when I was at HQ getting some links for my Ocean King. I haven't pulled trigger on a Monta GMT just yet, but the more I see them, the more I feel my Noble and Ocean King may need some company in my collection haha. Hope you wear this piece in great health and on some killer vacations!
Thanks! The Skyquest will be going with me for upcoming travels, for sure! Which Noble and Oceanking do you have?
Thanks! The Skyquest will be going with me for upcoming travels, for sure! Which Noble and Oceanking do you have?
Heck yeah man! I have an Opaline Silver dial Noble (my first Monta, and first "pricier" watch purchase) and my Ocean King is the Blue Steel variant. Love them both!
Very interesting brand.
You still happy with the Skyquest? I keep eyeing it on the website.