Two Broke Watch Snobs
Timex Marlin Draper Automatic Watch Review: Affordable Vintage Style Without the Gimmicks
Hands-on review of the Timex Marlin Draper Automatic, a 37mm retro-inspired automatic with vintage styling and restrained design.
Results for Automatic vs Manual Winding
2,105 articles · 18 videos found · page 4 of 71
Two Broke Watch Snobs
Fratello
Introducing: The Serious And Seriously Good-Looking Watch Angels × Alpina Startimer Pilot Chronograph Automatic IFR
There are pilot’s watches and pilot’s-watch-style watches, and the Watch Angels × Alpina Startimer Pilot Chronograph Automatic IFR falls into the first category. This is a serious watch for serious pilots, not an aviation-inspired chronograph. The watch doesn’t have a vintage-cockpit aesthetic; instead, it’s a mechanical tool watch designed specifically to assist IFR-rated pilots during […] Visit Introducing: The Serious And Seriously Good-Looking Watch Angels × Alpina Startimer Pilot Chronograph Automatic IFR to read the full article.
Two Broke Watch Snobs
Yema’s New Automatic Watch Is A 38mm Stealth Diver With An In-House Caliber
The Yema Navygraf Phantom CMM.10 packs an in-house automatic, 300m water resistance, and a 70-hour power reserve into a 38mm blacked-out case.
SJX Watches
Hands On: Bulgari Octo Finissimo Automatic 37 MM
One of the quieter hits from Watches & Wonders was Bulgari’s Octo Finissimo Automatic 37 mm, a watch that would probably have grabbed more headlines were it not for its visual similarity to the well-known 40 mm model. In pictures, it’s difficult to tell the sizes apart, but on the wrist the difference could not be more stark. Available in three versions in two different case materials — all regular production models — the 37 mm Octo Finissimo is powered by a new micro-rotor calibre that, while smaller than its sibling, manages to stretch the power reserve to 72 hours. Initial thoughts I’ve always appreciated the unique aesthetic of the Octo Finissimo, especially the matte titanium look that debuted in 2017. In some ways, it feels like the Royal Oak or Nautilus of my generation — an elegant sports watch with a distinctive voice. It’s a contemporary design that feels like it has staying power. This aspect of the Octo Finissimo should not be understated. The deluge of generic-looking integrated bracelet sports watches we’ve witnessed over the past five years proves that it’s very difficult to create a differentiated design within this format. For Bulgari, the development of the Octo Finissimo — with its wide bracelet and short-pitched links — was like capturing magic in a bottle. Unfortunately, the square shoulders of the 40 mm case ride up over my ulnar styloid (wrist bone) causing the case to sit at an odd angle — never flat and straight as intended ...
Two Broke Watch Snobs
Timex Meridian vs Orient Mako: Affordable Dive Watch Showdown (Hands-On)
Find out which budget dive watch suits your daily wear, wrist comfort, design preferences, and long-term ownership better. The post Timex Meridian vs Orient Mako: Affordable Dive Watch Showdown (Hands-On) appeared first on Two Broke Watch Snobs.
Video
NORQAIN Sprinkles Review: A Serious Watch That Refuses to Be Serious
The NORQAIN Freedom Chrono Enjoy Life “Sprinkles” might be the most fun luxury watch of 2026—but beneath the Strawberry pink and Blue Raspberry dials is a serious Swiss automatic chronograph.
Monochrome
First Look - The New IWC Ingenieur Automatic 42 in Dark Olive Green Ceramic
When IWC revived the Ingenieur in 2023, it did so by returning to Gérald Genta’s integrated-bracelet design, with functional screws, a structured dial and an emphasis on all things technical. Last year’s full-black ceramic Ingenieur Automatic 42 was quite exemplary. For 2026, IWC takes a more nuanced step with the Ingenieur Automatic 42 in dark […]
Fratello
Introducing: The Updated Alpina Startimer Pilot Automatic Collection
Alpina revisits one of its most recognizable collections with a fresh update for 2026. The Startimer enters a new era with refined proportions and enhanced legibility. Most notably, Alpina reduces the overall case size by 10 percent. The stainless steel case now measures 40mm in diameter and just 10.14mm thick. As a result, the watch […] Visit Introducing: The Updated Alpina Startimer Pilot Automatic Collection to read the full article.
Monochrome
Introducing - The Alpina Startimer Pilot Automatic, a Slimmer and More Refined Update
When Alpina showcased the Startimer back in 2011, it revisited its early 20th-century pilot’s watches. A part of the catalogue ever since, the appeal was simple. Clear cockpit styling, solid specifications, and a price that did not push things too far. At the centre of this collection sits the Startimer Pilot Automatic, the uncomplicated three-hander […]
Fratello
Introducing: The Formex Reef 39.5mm Automatic COSC 300M Forged Carbon
I am a fan of Formex. I like that the brand attempts to create the best-built watch within its chosen price category. The designs aren’t for everyone, but the build quality is undoubtedly excellent. I’ve had hands-on experience with Formex’s Field and Reef models. On both counts, they left me impressed, particularly given their asking […] Visit Introducing: The Formex Reef 39.5mm Automatic COSC 300M Forged Carbon to read the full article.
Monochrome
In-Depth - The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Self-Winding Ultra-Thin, with a New In-House Calibre to Fight in the Holy Trinity Sports Watch Battle
The new Overseas Self-Winding Ultra-Thin 2500V is, without a doubt, one of Vacheron Constantin‘s most important releases of the year, not particularly for commercial reasons, knowing its low availability, but for credibility and relevance in a specific market, that of the high-end, ultra-thin integrated sports watch. Revealed at Watches and Wonders 2026, the model replaces […]
Video
I Sold Out to Rolex.
For many years, I have brought up the debate between Rolex watches vs other luxury watch alternatives such as Omega. Today, this watch collector discussion still lives on, though perhaps it is time to consider trying...
Fratello
Introducing: The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Self-Winding Ultra-Thin In A 39.5mm Platinum Case
It took a while, but the 2016 Overseas Ultra-Thin finally has a successor. Ten years after the launch of the 40 × 7.5mm white gold reference 2000V/120G-B122 with caliber 1120, a 39.5 × 7.35mm platinum timepiece debuts. Introducing the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Self-Winding Ultra-Thin reference 2500V/210P-H028 outfitted with the new 2.4mm-thick caliber 2550 featuring a […] Visit Introducing: The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Self-Winding Ultra-Thin In A 39.5mm Platinum Case to read the full article.
Two Broke Watch Snobs
Timex vs Orient: Hands-On Affordable Watch Brand Showdown
Timex vs. Orient? After years of hands-on testing, we reveal which brand wins. Compare real-world performance, durability, and more to choose the right option.
Two Broke Watch Snobs
Casio’s Affordable Automatic Watch Is Back With a New Movement
The new Casio Edifice EFK-110D refines the brand's affordable automatic formula with a thinner case, new movement, and competitive pricing.
Fratello
Sunday Morning Showdown: The New Longines Hydroconquest Vs. The Oris Aquis Date
Welcome to another installment of Sunday Morning Showdown! We hope you have your Sunday breakfast, a cup of coffee, and an open mind at hand because we need your opinion! Today, we’ll pit the latest Longines Hydroconquest against the Oris Aquis. This, then, is a battle of sub-€2,500 dive watches. Both watches come in different […] Visit Sunday Morning Showdown: The New Longines Hydroconquest Vs. The Oris Aquis Date to read the full article.
Fratello
Sunday Morning Showdown: Tudor Black Bay “Monochrome” Vs. Seiko Prospex Marinemaster HBF001
It’s Sunday morning, which means it’s time for another epic watch battle in our Sunday Morning Showdown series. This week, Mike and Jorg go head-to-head with two popular dive watches. With the recent introduction of the Seiko Marinemaster HBF001, we want to see whether it can take on the popular Tudor Black Bay “Monochrome.” Mike […] Visit Sunday Morning Showdown: Tudor Black Bay “Monochrome” Vs. Seiko Prospex Marinemaster HBF001 to read the full article.
Video
Mark Kauzlarich Sits Down With Pierre Biver To Discuss The New "AB" Watch
Mark Kauzlarich sat down with Pierre Biver to talk about Biver’s new reference, the AB. The AB is the brand’s first stainless steel watch that has a new manually wound movement. Measuring 38mm by 9.8mm, the AB fea...
Fratello
Sunday Morning Showdown: Tissot Visodate Vs. Baltic Hermétique - The Battle Of The Mid-Century Everyday Watches
Welcome to another Sunday Morning Showdown. Blink twice, and another seven days have flown by, bringing us to our favorite moment of the week. This time, Daan and Thomas take to the ring to defend two mid-century-inspired everyday watches. Daan represents the Baltic Hermétique, while Thomas defends the new Tissot Visodate. These watches are more […] Visit Sunday Morning Showdown: Tissot Visodate Vs. Baltic Hermétique - The Battle Of The Mid-Century Everyday Watches to read the full article.
Fratello
Introducing: The Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Automatic 36mm Alta Rosa
Parmigiani Fleurier keeps unveiling new versions of existing watches that feel fresh and different. It’s a remarkable phenomenon that proves how well the brand chooses its dial colors across the different models. The latest addition to the Tonda PF Automatic lineup is the new Alta Rosa variant. While a pink dial is not new to […] Visit Introducing: The Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Automatic 36mm Alta Rosa to read the full article.
Fratello
Sunday Morning Showdown: Favre Leuba Deep Raider Revival Vs. Aquastar Deepstar II
It’s Sunday, which means it’s time for another Sunday Morning Showdown. This week, it’s an epic battle between two retro dive watches. Each is inspired by its respective brand’s 1960s classics. Jorg’s pick is the Favre Leuba Deep Raider Revival, a modern version of the brand’s Deep Blue. Mike’s pick is the Aquastar Deepstar II, […] Visit Sunday Morning Showdown: Favre Leuba Deep Raider Revival Vs. Aquastar Deepstar II to read the full article.
Fratello
Hands-On With The Rado Anatom Automatic Skeleton
It’s time for a short confession: generally, I am not the biggest fan of skeletonized watches. While I greatly appreciate the possibility of witnessing a caliber in action, I much prefer to see it in action through a sapphire display in the case back. It’s purely an aesthetic thing because, as a design fanatic, I […] Visit Hands-On With The Rado Anatom Automatic Skeleton to read the full article.
WatchAdvice
IWC Ingenieur Automatic 42 Black Ceramic Review: Stealth Meets Genta Design
The IWC Ingenieur Automatic 42 Black Ceramic is a stealth watch with Genta’s DNA baked into the material. But does it stand on its own? Let’s find out! What We Love The Ingenieur design is adapted to black ceramic Dial legibility is still present Finishing of the material makes this a standout watch What We Don’t Lack of the quick link adjustment system on the bracelet The all-black look may not be for everyone’s tastes The 42 mm sizing makes this watch wear different to the Ingenieur 40 and may not suit a smaller wrist Overall Rating: 8.6 / 10 Value for Money: 8.5/10 Wearability: 8/10 Design: 9/10 Build Quality: 9/10 The Ingenieur dominated IWC’s 2025 Watches & Wonders releases, expanding into new sizes and materials. And, of course, there was the quickly sold-out green dial inspired by the vintage Ingenieur SL worn by Brad Pitt in F1: The Movie. But one model possibly stood apart from the rest: the 42 mm all-black ceramic Ingenieur. Not because it was louder, but because it fundamentally changed how the Ingenieur is built, worn, and perceived. We were lucky to catch up with IWC’s CEO, Chris Grainger-Herr, who explained that developing the Ingenieur in an all-ceramic case and bracelet wasn’t as simple as remaking the watch in a different material. Ceramic is notoriously hard to work with, and it is not a case of a simple material swap. It requires a lot more attention – one reason why the Ingenieur is in a slightly larger 42 mm size. Myself, Chris Grai...
Two Broke Watch Snobs
Tudor Black Bay GMT vs Monta Skyquest: Swiss Giant Against Microbrand
Compare Tudor Black Bay GMT vs Monta Skyquest through daily wear. Decide which GMT to consider based on comfort, design, movement, and real-world trade-offs.
Fratello
Sunday Morning Showdown: Seiko Rotocall Re-Editions Vs. Casio G-Shock Square In Steel
Good morning, Fratelli, and welcome to another Sunday Morning Showdown. Today will be a fully digital installment. When Seiko introduced the “Rotocall” re-editions, many enthusiasts got excited. The original ’80s watch, also known as the “Astronaut,” was used on many space missions, and its practical, uniquely designed bezel is a standout feature. We already put […] Visit Sunday Morning Showdown: Seiko Rotocall Re-Editions Vs. Casio G-Shock Square In Steel to read the full article.
Two Broke Watch Snobs
Citizen vs Orient: Which Affordable Watch Brand Offers Better Value?
Citizen vs Orient explained through years of hands-on wear. Honest insights on affordability, design, durability, accuracy, and daily ownership.
Two Broke Watch Snobs
Seiko 5KX vs. Orient Mako II: Affordable Dive Watch Showdown
Explore Seiko 5KX vs. Orient Mako II through our long-term comparison. Identify movement trade-offs, case comfort, and which one earned more time on our wrists.
Monochrome
Introducing - The New, Ultra-Accessible Citizen Automatic NJ0210 Dress and NJ022 Diver-Style Series
When it comes to finding some of the most accessible automatic watches on the market, at least coming from established and reputable brands, it is hard to beat what Citizen has on offer. Whatever the style you’re looking for, the brand has something for you. Looking for a chic, sporty watch with a 1980s vibe? […]
Deployant
New: IWC Portugieser Automatic 42 Year of the Horse
The Limited-Edition Portugieser Automatic 42 Year of the Horse is a commemorative timepiece released by IWC Schaffhausen to mark the upcoming Lunar New Year. Limited to 500 pieces, it features a 42.4mm stainless steel case, a burgundy dial with gold accents, and the IWC-manufactured 52011 caliber offering a seven-day power reserve. The rotor is shaped like a galloping horse, visible through the sapphire caseback.
Fratello
Battle Of The Black Bays: Tudor Black Bay 54 Vs. Black Bay 58
In the second half of 2023, Tudor quietly dropped what would turn out to be one of its most interesting modern dive watches, the Black Bay 54. This 37mm watch instantly became the smallest Black Bay diver in the lineup and slotted in neatly alongside the Black Bay 58 and its standard 41mm counterpart. My […] Visit Battle Of The Black Bays: Tudor Black Bay 54 Vs. Black Bay 58 to read the full article.