Don’t own one, but one consistent point of praise across all reviews seem to be that the build quality and finishing is rock solid for the money. While i do like the design of their recently released ascent with ‘vortex’ dial, i can’t help but feel like they lack some form of identity. Both their ‘Origin’ and ‘Ascent’ lineups have imo way too may dial options, especially the latter that also throws (a total of 4) different dial types into the mix. I’d rather seen them double down on a design language, and limit each lineup to 2 to 3 dials max. Honestly if you see one of them that you like, i think that you won’t be disappointed. I’ve been subscribed to Jody and his YouTube channel for a while now, and he is imo one of the best and most transparent watch reviewers out there. He also posted a video in which he went to China to visit the factory where his watches are being manufactured, definitely an interesting insight. It has been quite cool to see his watchmaking journey unfold, and I’m curious to see where it goes in the future. Just keep in mind that this is a young upstart brand that is still very much finding its way into the watchmaking world, in multiple ways. As long as you are aware of what exactly you are buying into, you’ll be fine.
I personally don’t think the dial options are the problem as far as identity is concerned, and more that the watches are clearly inspired by other watch types. The origin is just a basic diver and the ascent draws heavily from Grand Seiko. Even their bracelets with “o or j style” is clearly from Rolex.
It would be cool for them to have their own unique designs, but I understand they’re in the growing phase and trying to find their niche. I’ll keep an eye on them as they grow.
Erebus watches are reportedly made by San Martin, so the quality should be really good for the money. I presume extra care will go into QC for these Erebus watches too considering the higher price point. I don’t have first hand experience though.
I actually came to comment that Erebus is just a San Martin watch.
I have not watched the video tbh, but I’ve seen many people refer to the factory tour of the Erebus watch factory and that apparently it was pretty clear it was the San Martin factory.
This definitely is not bad. San Martin makes great watches.
I do wish they took some risk though. There’s nothing unique enough to make me want to buy either of these releases. But I do want to support Jody.
If you’re reading this Jody take some risk and be original!
What do you think would justify $700+? Their top 10 most popular watches all use either NH34, NH35, or PT5000 movements. Even with their sapphire crystals and water resistance, idk if I agree. My guess is a microbrand with those specs should be around $500 or less? Maybe I’m missing something? Of course at $100-$200 they are steals.
Didn’t mean for this to be a SM thread but any models you would recommend? I feel like it’s only a matter of time before I own one. I have a daily diver that I’ll never stop wearing so maybe a non-diver?
Im really sorry but I just can’t take seriously a watch company named after the First Captain of the Word Bearers Chaos Space Marines and member of the Dark Council of Sicaru. Can’t do it.
Imagine if there was only a meaning that preceded that gibberish word salad, something from Geek mythology or something like that. Then that'd be a bit more understandable as a concept.
I have the origin in blue.
The lume is truly great, I love the big hands, the matte colors make it more casual for everyday, the crown is a joy to use, the dial design is very well done, the NH35 is surprisingly accurate, and the bezel action is 10/10.
The bracelet is frustratingly close to perfect. It grabs and pinches a little and could use a little more taper, but it’s still very good.
It’s a bit chunky overall but doesn’t cross into ridiculous territory. I really love mine.
https://preview.redd.it/a640aqw8swxc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6892f21f3ab43c2c462570c3aefa6114db477cf2
Check out Watching James review on youtube. He makes what i believe to be the most honest and unbiased review of the watch. I agree that with that $400 is a little steep for what is essentially a Helm x Pelagos mashedup San Martin, but that is the price you pay when a western is involved in the marketing of a chinese watch and calling it a "microbrand". There are even rumors that Erebus watches are made in the same factory as San Martin. The watch gets a lot of praise because of the positive reputation of Jody and that may be deserved. There's also no denying that the Spiral Helix dial on the new release looks awesome.
I have the Origin in black and I must say the fit and finish is spot on. According to my phone the watch runs at -7 per day. The design is a bit derivative of many other "divers" out there; they knowingly set out to make a watch that would appeal to most and they were up front about that. The case shape and fit are awesome for my 18.5 cm (7.25") wrist.
If you don't already have a dive watch, or a GADA, then either of Erebus' watches would be a good option. I have what I would consider a GADA in my collection so I won't be picking up an Ascent at this time. But I wouldn't hesitate if I was in the market. And the dial options they have laid out are amazing for prospective buyers.
I havent personally held one of the watches but having watched plenty of Jody's content he seems like an upstanding guy so I would expect that to carry over to the business. He has very high standards for watches in this price range. Unlike other youtubers *cough* Teddy *cough*, he's not scared to give honest criticisms, even when a company is sponsoring the review. That sort of integrity is rare in this industry.
i watch his videos a lot and like him but his excuse for the male end links and the pretending the non see through case back was a whoops we forgot instead of a choice rubbed me the wrong way
also have heard his qc is being questioned and from what ive seen he is choosing to ignore it instead of address it
Not having a display caseback is entirely commonplace on a diver. Just ask Rolex. What a bizarre complaint.
If you know it's coming with a solid caseback you can choose accordingly. As soon as you have a display caseback you increase costs and add costs of at the very least, some basic finishing on the mechanism too. Difficult at a budget pricepoint.
Furthermore I've heard no mention of poor QC could you link me to a source of this please?
agree on the cost completely...just saying just say that and dont act like you completely forgot about it instead
it wasnt a complaint i dont personally care either way...that being said if someone did want to have one that should be ok too especially if how much he said he made this to compare with 5kish watches
it was on one of his videos in the comments ill try and find it when i get a chance
I'm not a fan of divers so his first watch was a bit meh for me, but on the second watch he actually bothered to colour match the date wheel, something plenty of watches of about £5k can't even be bothered to do. That's attention to detail that do many cut corners on.
TBF this probably bothers me more than most as I'm a bit OCD about it.
like the framed in date window too
but yeah colored date wheels are solid unless it is a specific design choice so like that he did it here where it makes sense...outside the green though where i wish he did it just a shade darker
Yeah I totally agree, but what I'm getting from it is a quality entry level offering, but from someone making a bit more of an effort, thinking about it a bit more than most of the very generic stuff being produced. And Jody genuinely seems to be one of the good guys too, good luck to him.
Nice specs, but just another Chinese-made private label. I'm sure it's fine if you also shop San Martin, Pagani, Steeldive, et al. I ignore them simply because I don't want a rebranded Chinese watch -- even having a Miyota movement. I just resent having so many of our products supporting that government. When I have a choice, I choose not to buy their stuff. Many people are OK with these, YMMV.
I'll push back some by saying that those jobs are more fundamentally supporting those workers and their families. As for buying Chinese that horse (panda?) left the barn a long time ago. Even the mighty Seiko makes their bread and butter watches in China and Malaysia. There's a lot of Chinese made stuff that's shoddy, but that has as much to do with we Americans demanding bottom dollar pricing as it does with the government in Beijing. And, it's not all junk coming from China: For instance, the phones we're all reading this on are made pretty darn well. 😎
It's not necessarily about quality. Many pieces with "SWISS MADE" labels use Chinese components. The many Chinese brands have some nice pieces. I simply choose to boycott brands that I know are China-based and directly enrich the PRC... when possible.
It is rarely possible now since Chinese manufacturing has become so ingrained in everything we buy. But in the case of these Chinese-made private-label "brands", I choose not to buy.
Did you even read what I said? Apparently not. I specifically said: "When I have a choice", and I have a choice not to buy these Chinese-made watches. This comment is truly silly.
I heard a great saying (credit to YouTuber u/nickshabazz)… quality is about effort not geography.
Erebus needs to compete on price/value as a new brand. They can’t do that making the watches in Australia (their home country), Germany or Switzerland. They found a partner in China and have done their homework to be sure the watches are produced ethically. People act like they are buying them from the Chinese government. Yes, they are supporting a company in China, I’m sure good people work there the same as good people work at every watch manufacturer… and probably some marginal ones too… again, the same as every manufacturer. I think that between the reviews and statements from the brand owners you can be confident you are getting a quality product, so if it is a $350 watch, why worry about where it comes from? If you want a 10k watch to be made in Switzerland or Germany, I get it, you are paying for a lot more than the watch itself (brand cache), but at $350 I would just look for quality, which they have.
Loads of brands including Swiss watches source from China. You're buying it anyway, just without knowing it.
Typical lazy racism from someone probably posting this on phone or computer made in China through networks built on Chinese parts, Chinese made servers etc etc.
China made watches by a greedy YouTuber based off of stolen designs.
And seemingly shoddy design + even worse customer service judging by how Jody doesn’t acknowledge a pretty substantial complaint in the comments section one of his recent promotional videos, where he answered and reacted to other comments.
The helix dial pattern on their second watch is obviously a straight ripoff of the whirlpool dial pattern of GS, but I don't think that means the entire watch design is a ripoff.
>greedy youtuber
Wow that's *so much* worse than being made by a greedy corporation in China.
What's this substantial complaint? Also why do you expect a brand new startup company to instantly have top tier customer support? You seem to be pretty invested in hating for some reason.
I mean... what do you want from the guy? He was very open about what watches inspired the designs of the Origin and the Ascent. I see some design cues from other watches, but I don't see a one-for-one Aliexpress style copy.
He's running a business, my friend. His videos, his watches, the ads, and sponsors all contribute to his livelihood. Personally, I don't think the comment section of YouTube is the place to address a customer complaint. That's what email is for.
Nice looking watches for the price. Dont like the branding or name
I have an Origin on my wrist at the moment. Fantastic quality for the price. The bracelet is amazing. I’ve been really pleased with it.
Don’t own one, but one consistent point of praise across all reviews seem to be that the build quality and finishing is rock solid for the money. While i do like the design of their recently released ascent with ‘vortex’ dial, i can’t help but feel like they lack some form of identity. Both their ‘Origin’ and ‘Ascent’ lineups have imo way too may dial options, especially the latter that also throws (a total of 4) different dial types into the mix. I’d rather seen them double down on a design language, and limit each lineup to 2 to 3 dials max. Honestly if you see one of them that you like, i think that you won’t be disappointed. I’ve been subscribed to Jody and his YouTube channel for a while now, and he is imo one of the best and most transparent watch reviewers out there. He also posted a video in which he went to China to visit the factory where his watches are being manufactured, definitely an interesting insight. It has been quite cool to see his watchmaking journey unfold, and I’m curious to see where it goes in the future. Just keep in mind that this is a young upstart brand that is still very much finding its way into the watchmaking world, in multiple ways. As long as you are aware of what exactly you are buying into, you’ll be fine.
I personally don’t think the dial options are the problem as far as identity is concerned, and more that the watches are clearly inspired by other watch types. The origin is just a basic diver and the ascent draws heavily from Grand Seiko. Even their bracelets with “o or j style” is clearly from Rolex. It would be cool for them to have their own unique designs, but I understand they’re in the growing phase and trying to find their niche. I’ll keep an eye on them as they grow.
Erebus watches are reportedly made by San Martin, so the quality should be really good for the money. I presume extra care will go into QC for these Erebus watches too considering the higher price point. I don’t have first hand experience though.
First time I am hearing this, but it makes sense. The creator has always been very positive about San Martin.
I actually came to comment that Erebus is just a San Martin watch. I have not watched the video tbh, but I’ve seen many people refer to the factory tour of the Erebus watch factory and that apparently it was pretty clear it was the San Martin factory. This definitely is not bad. San Martin makes great watches. I do wish they took some risk though. There’s nothing unique enough to make me want to buy either of these releases. But I do want to support Jody. If you’re reading this Jody take some risk and be original!
Wouldn’t these be on the more expensive end of San Martin’s offerings? Are they still “really good for the money?”
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Gotcha. Out of curiosity, what do you think would be a reasonable price for a San Martin? $500? $1000?
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What do you think would justify $700+? Their top 10 most popular watches all use either NH34, NH35, or PT5000 movements. Even with their sapphire crystals and water resistance, idk if I agree. My guess is a microbrand with those specs should be around $500 or less? Maybe I’m missing something? Of course at $100-$200 they are steals.
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I get you. I’ve never held a SM so I’m just wondering. Which of your watches in the £1000-2000 range would you say matches the quality of a SM?
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Didn’t mean for this to be a SM thread but any models you would recommend? I feel like it’s only a matter of time before I own one. I have a daily diver that I’ll never stop wearing so maybe a non-diver?
Woah, really? I had no idea. San Martin has really good build quality. Just questionable customer service lol.
Im really sorry but I just can’t take seriously a watch company named after the First Captain of the Word Bearers Chaos Space Marines and member of the Dark Council of Sicaru. Can’t do it.
Imagine if there was only a meaning that preceded that gibberish word salad, something from Geek mythology or something like that. Then that'd be a bit more understandable as a concept.
😂
My friend, if Warhammer 40k lore is not geek mythology I don’t know what is! 😉
God of darkness but not a single black on black watch option. The name has no connection to their design language.
Lol. Idk wtf Erebus. Never played Warhammer
Man, I read the title and thought it was a 40K subreddit. I was only coming to say “Fuck Erebus!” 😂
🤣🤣
I have the origin in blue. The lume is truly great, I love the big hands, the matte colors make it more casual for everyday, the crown is a joy to use, the dial design is very well done, the NH35 is surprisingly accurate, and the bezel action is 10/10. The bracelet is frustratingly close to perfect. It grabs and pinches a little and could use a little more taper, but it’s still very good. It’s a bit chunky overall but doesn’t cross into ridiculous territory. I really love mine. https://preview.redd.it/a640aqw8swxc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6892f21f3ab43c2c462570c3aefa6114db477cf2
Check out Watching James review on youtube. He makes what i believe to be the most honest and unbiased review of the watch. I agree that with that $400 is a little steep for what is essentially a Helm x Pelagos mashedup San Martin, but that is the price you pay when a western is involved in the marketing of a chinese watch and calling it a "microbrand". There are even rumors that Erebus watches are made in the same factory as San Martin. The watch gets a lot of praise because of the positive reputation of Jody and that may be deserved. There's also no denying that the Spiral Helix dial on the new release looks awesome.
I have the Origin in black and I must say the fit and finish is spot on. According to my phone the watch runs at -7 per day. The design is a bit derivative of many other "divers" out there; they knowingly set out to make a watch that would appeal to most and they were up front about that. The case shape and fit are awesome for my 18.5 cm (7.25") wrist. If you don't already have a dive watch, or a GADA, then either of Erebus' watches would be a good option. I have what I would consider a GADA in my collection so I won't be picking up an Ascent at this time. But I wouldn't hesitate if I was in the market. And the dial options they have laid out are amazing for prospective buyers.
I havent personally held one of the watches but having watched plenty of Jody's content he seems like an upstanding guy so I would expect that to carry over to the business. He has very high standards for watches in this price range. Unlike other youtubers *cough* Teddy *cough*, he's not scared to give honest criticisms, even when a company is sponsoring the review. That sort of integrity is rare in this industry.
i watch his videos a lot and like him but his excuse for the male end links and the pretending the non see through case back was a whoops we forgot instead of a choice rubbed me the wrong way also have heard his qc is being questioned and from what ive seen he is choosing to ignore it instead of address it
Not having a display caseback is entirely commonplace on a diver. Just ask Rolex. What a bizarre complaint. If you know it's coming with a solid caseback you can choose accordingly. As soon as you have a display caseback you increase costs and add costs of at the very least, some basic finishing on the mechanism too. Difficult at a budget pricepoint. Furthermore I've heard no mention of poor QC could you link me to a source of this please?
agree on the cost completely...just saying just say that and dont act like you completely forgot about it instead it wasnt a complaint i dont personally care either way...that being said if someone did want to have one that should be ok too especially if how much he said he made this to compare with 5kish watches it was on one of his videos in the comments ill try and find it when i get a chance
I'm not a fan of divers so his first watch was a bit meh for me, but on the second watch he actually bothered to colour match the date wheel, something plenty of watches of about £5k can't even be bothered to do. That's attention to detail that do many cut corners on. TBF this probably bothers me more than most as I'm a bit OCD about it.
like the framed in date window too but yeah colored date wheels are solid unless it is a specific design choice so like that he did it here where it makes sense...outside the green though where i wish he did it just a shade darker
Yeah I totally agree, but what I'm getting from it is a quality entry level offering, but from someone making a bit more of an effort, thinking about it a bit more than most of the very generic stuff being produced. And Jody genuinely seems to be one of the good guys too, good luck to him.
https://preview.redd.it/35yeo6e53wxc1.png?width=977&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2d4c9d7ade66345efb59b6843af60faf3a7d9227
Nice specs, but just another Chinese-made private label. I'm sure it's fine if you also shop San Martin, Pagani, Steeldive, et al. I ignore them simply because I don't want a rebranded Chinese watch -- even having a Miyota movement. I just resent having so many of our products supporting that government. When I have a choice, I choose not to buy their stuff. Many people are OK with these, YMMV.
I'll push back some by saying that those jobs are more fundamentally supporting those workers and their families. As for buying Chinese that horse (panda?) left the barn a long time ago. Even the mighty Seiko makes their bread and butter watches in China and Malaysia. There's a lot of Chinese made stuff that's shoddy, but that has as much to do with we Americans demanding bottom dollar pricing as it does with the government in Beijing. And, it's not all junk coming from China: For instance, the phones we're all reading this on are made pretty darn well. 😎
It's not necessarily about quality. Many pieces with "SWISS MADE" labels use Chinese components. The many Chinese brands have some nice pieces. I simply choose to boycott brands that I know are China-based and directly enrich the PRC... when possible. It is rarely possible now since Chinese manufacturing has become so ingrained in everything we buy. But in the case of these Chinese-made private-label "brands", I choose not to buy.
Almost every watch brand you purchase from sources from China so this point is truly irrelevant
Did you even read what I said? Apparently not. I specifically said: "When I have a choice", and I have a choice not to buy these Chinese-made watches. This comment is truly silly.
I appreciate the input. Is there another brand you would compare them to that’s not China made? Or that you would recommend instead?
I heard a great saying (credit to YouTuber u/nickshabazz)… quality is about effort not geography. Erebus needs to compete on price/value as a new brand. They can’t do that making the watches in Australia (their home country), Germany or Switzerland. They found a partner in China and have done their homework to be sure the watches are produced ethically. People act like they are buying them from the Chinese government. Yes, they are supporting a company in China, I’m sure good people work there the same as good people work at every watch manufacturer… and probably some marginal ones too… again, the same as every manufacturer. I think that between the reviews and statements from the brand owners you can be confident you are getting a quality product, so if it is a $350 watch, why worry about where it comes from? If you want a 10k watch to be made in Switzerland or Germany, I get it, you are paying for a lot more than the watch itself (brand cache), but at $350 I would just look for quality, which they have.
Loads of brands including Swiss watches source from China. You're buying it anyway, just without knowing it. Typical lazy racism from someone probably posting this on phone or computer made in China through networks built on Chinese parts, Chinese made servers etc etc.
Mad Watch Collector on YouTube just did a review of the Ascent.
China made watches by a greedy YouTuber based off of stolen designs. And seemingly shoddy design + even worse customer service judging by how Jody doesn’t acknowledge a pretty substantial complaint in the comments section one of his recent promotional videos, where he answered and reacted to other comments.
What designs were stolen for either of his watches?
First watch - Tudor Pelagos Second watch - SBGH267
The helix dial pattern on their second watch is obviously a straight ripoff of the whirlpool dial pattern of GS, but I don't think that means the entire watch design is a ripoff.
The first watch looks nothing like a Tudor Pelagos once you've seen a Helm Vanatu. This isn't even a credible comment.
Bro what are you smoking
>greedy youtuber Wow that's *so much* worse than being made by a greedy corporation in China. What's this substantial complaint? Also why do you expect a brand new startup company to instantly have top tier customer support? You seem to be pretty invested in hating for some reason.
I mean... what do you want from the guy? He was very open about what watches inspired the designs of the Origin and the Ascent. I see some design cues from other watches, but I don't see a one-for-one Aliexpress style copy. He's running a business, my friend. His videos, his watches, the ads, and sponsors all contribute to his livelihood. Personally, I don't think the comment section of YouTube is the place to address a customer complaint. That's what email is for.