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Posted inReview

Casio W-219h Review: a great, cheap, G-Shock Alternative for 2024

Posted by By Dave April 6, 2024
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Posted inRanking

Watches with the Best Lume: Full Rankings

Posted by By Dave March 31, 2024
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Casio W-219h Review: a great, cheap, G-Shock Alternative for 2024

Casio W-219h Review: a great, cheap, G-Shock Alternative for 2024

Posted by By Dave April 6, 2024
In recent years Casio has started pumping out cheap digital watches that, at least in terms of style, share a lot of DNA with their G-Shock premium digital watches. One…
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Watches with the Best Lume: Full Rankings

Watches with the Best Lume: Full Rankings

Posted by By Dave March 31, 2024
Just the Watch Lume Rankings I love lume. So much so that a few years ago I developed a rating system to compare the brightness of lume across the watches…
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Casio AEQ-110: Almost a great beater watch

Casio AEQ-110: Almost a great beater watch

Posted by By Dave March 29, 2024
A tough, great looking ana-digi model from Casio that looks like a real bargain at $30, but the lack of an active light makes this a questionable buy. Read on…
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The Best Affordable Automatic Chronograph of 2024

The Best Affordable Automatic Chronograph of 2024

Posted by By Dave March 14, 2024
Founded in Korea in 2021, Pitzmann is a new microbrand that's been catching attention with excellently crafted watches that combine both western and eastern influences. Today we'll be looking at…
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The Best $30 G-Shock Alternative is still a Casio

The Best $30 G-Shock Alternative is still a Casio

Posted by By Dave March 2, 2024
Sometimes I'm not sure what the guys over at Casio are thinking. While every other brand has been increasing prices, Casio seems to be doing the opposite by creating ultra-affordable…
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The Best Affordable Black Bay Alternative of 2024

The Best Affordable Black Bay Alternative of 2024

Posted by By Dave March 2, 2024
In this video we see what Swedish Micro brand Tuseno is capable of with their new flagship dive watch, the Shellback version 2. With a silhouette that is reminiscent of…
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This New Seiko 5 GMT is the Best Affordable Rolex Explorer 2 Polar Dial Alternative

This New Seiko 5 GMT is the Best Affordable Rolex Explorer 2 Polar Dial Alternative

Posted by By Dave March 1, 2024
Seiko SBSC009 Review The Rolex Explorer II, particularly the white dial "polar" dial variants have always been a grail of mine. But since it's way outside my price range I've…
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The Best Watch Available Today Costs Just $20

The Best Watch Available Today Costs Just $20

Posted by By Dave March 1, 2024
Today we're checking out a watch that I think is a genuine contender for the title “Best Watch of All Time,” in the Casio AE1200WH. We’ll be putting this claim…
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Seiko SBDC159 – An affordable Rolex Explorer Alternative

Seiko SBDC159 – An affordable Rolex Explorer Alternative

Posted by By Dave March 1, 2024
As an avid watch enthusiast residing in Japan, I have encountered numerous timepieces that have captured my attention. Among them, the Rolex Explorer stands tall as one of my favorites.…
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Latest Videos

In this video, I take a close look at the Englemaan Enterprise, a Chinese-made automatic watch that delivers an unusual level of manufacturing and feature set for its $280 price point.

Get the watch: https://englemaan.com
Get a Hoodie: https://justthewatch.com


This is a 40mm tool watch clearly inspired by the Sinn 104, but the real story here isn’t the design—it’s what’s happening under the hood. The Enterprise includes features that are rarely seen at this price, including a ball-bearing bezel assembly, a clutched crown, and a smooth on-the-fly adjustable clasp.

You also get a ceramic bezel insert, sapphire crystal with AR coating, an anti-magnetic case, and an anti-scratch coating on both the case and bracelet. Powering the watch is the proven Seiko NH36 automatic movement, known for its reliability and easy serviceability.

In this review, I’ll cover:

Build quality and finishing

Bezel and crown execution

Bracelet and clasp design

Movement choice and performance

How it compares to other watches in the sub-$300 category

Whether this level of manufacturing actually matters in real-world use
This is getting out of hand...
Casio MRW-200 & MRW-230 Review | Affordable Analog Casio Watches

In this video, I review the Casio MRW-200 and Casio MRW-230, two highly affordable Casio analog watches that offer strong everyday functionality at a very low price. Both models feature 100m water resistance, day/date, a rotating timing bezel, and extremely light, comfortable wear — making them solid options as cheap Casio watches or casual daily beaters.

Get a JTW T-Shirt or Hoodie: https://shop.justthewatch.com
More Cool watches in my Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/justthewatch

The focus is on JDM (Japan-only) MRW models, including versions with Kanji day wheels, and how they compare to US-market releases. The MRW-200 line includes field watch and retro diver-style designs, while the newer MRW-230 has a more streamlined diver layout with a metal bezel insert and improved dial legibility.

I also cover lume performance, strap compatibility (18mm lugs), comfort, durability, and pricing differences between Japan and the US. If you’re looking for an affordable Casio watch, a budget dive watch, or a simple analog Casio with real water resistance, the MRW-200 and MRW-230 are worth considering.

Links
US VERSION (Affiliate)
MRW-200 (Tactical): https://amzn.to/4tqt8SO
MRW-230: https://amzn.to/4tqt8SO

JAPANESE VERSIONS
https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/Casio-Collection-%E3%80%90Domestic-Regular-Product%E3%80%91/dp/B09C1N8445
https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/Casio-Collection-%E3%80%90Domestic-Regular-Product%E3%80%91/dp/B09C1MX3ND
https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/Casio-MRW-230HJ-Wristwatch-Collection-black/dp/B0FN7V6VYR

Straps Shown
FKM Rubber Strap: https://skxmod.com/products/fkm-rubber-band-for-ae-1200-1300-ws-1600-series
Leather Strap: https://vario.sg/collections/watch-straps-for-casio-ae1200wh-world-time
18mm Nylon Strap: https://cnswatchbands.com/
All the watch you need for $20
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Latest Videos

In this video, I take a close look at the Englemaan Enterprise, a Chinese-made automatic watch that delivers an unusual level of manufacturing and feature set for its $280 price point.

Get the watch: https://englemaan.com
Get a Hoodie: https://justthewatch.com


This is a 40mm tool watch clearly inspired by the Sinn 104, but the real story here isn’t the design—it’s what’s happening under the hood. The Enterprise includes features that are rarely seen at this price, including a ball-bearing bezel assembly, a clutched crown, and a smooth on-the-fly adjustable clasp.

You also get a ceramic bezel insert, sapphire crystal with AR coating, an anti-magnetic case, and an anti-scratch coating on both the case and bracelet. Powering the watch is the proven Seiko NH36 automatic movement, known for its reliability and easy serviceability.

In this review, I’ll cover:

Build quality and finishing

Bezel and crown execution

Bracelet and clasp design

Movement choice and performance

How it compares to other watches in the sub-$300 category

Whether this level of manufacturing actually matters in real-world use
This is getting out of hand...
Casio MRW-200 & MRW-230 Review | Affordable Analog Casio Watches

In this video, I review the Casio MRW-200 and Casio MRW-230, two highly affordable Casio analog watches that offer strong everyday functionality at a very low price. Both models feature 100m water resistance, day/date, a rotating timing bezel, and extremely light, comfortable wear — making them solid options as cheap Casio watches or casual daily beaters.

Get a JTW T-Shirt or Hoodie: https://shop.justthewatch.com
More Cool watches in my Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/justthewatch

The focus is on JDM (Japan-only) MRW models, including versions with Kanji day wheels, and how they compare to US-market releases. The MRW-200 line includes field watch and retro diver-style designs, while the newer MRW-230 has a more streamlined diver layout with a metal bezel insert and improved dial legibility.

I also cover lume performance, strap compatibility (18mm lugs), comfort, durability, and pricing differences between Japan and the US. If you’re looking for an affordable Casio watch, a budget dive watch, or a simple analog Casio with real water resistance, the MRW-200 and MRW-230 are worth considering.

Links
US VERSION (Affiliate)
MRW-200 (Tactical): https://amzn.to/4tqt8SO
MRW-230: https://amzn.to/4tqt8SO

JAPANESE VERSIONS
https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/Casio-Collection-%E3%80%90Domestic-Regular-Product%E3%80%91/dp/B09C1N8445
https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/Casio-Collection-%E3%80%90Domestic-Regular-Product%E3%80%91/dp/B09C1MX3ND
https://www.amazon.co.jp/-/en/Casio-MRW-230HJ-Wristwatch-Collection-black/dp/B0FN7V6VYR

Straps Shown
FKM Rubber Strap: https://skxmod.com/products/fkm-rubber-band-for-ae-1200-1300-ws-1600-series
Leather Strap: https://vario.sg/collections/watch-straps-for-casio-ae1200wh-world-time
18mm Nylon Strap: https://cnswatchbands.com/
All the watch you need for $20
January Microbrand Monthly – Best New Microbrand Watch Releases (Dive, Field & GMT Watches)

Welcome to the January edition of Microbrand Monthly on Just the Watch — a once-a-month roundup where we highlight the best new microbrand watch releases so you can stay up to date without watching dozens of individual reviews.

Watch Brands in this video:
MMI: https://www.mmiwatches.com/
Mark Time: https://marktimewatches.com/
Helm: https://helmwatches.com
Heron: https://www.heronwatches.com/
Christopher Ward: https://www.christopherward.com

This month is a little different: I’m joined by two trusted watch reviewers — Shane from@RelativeTime and Bob from @TimeToGoTravelAndTimepieces  — each bringing hands-on coverage of standout microbrand watches they think you should know about.

Watches Featured in This Episode:

MMI Cuttlechron Wave Tri-Lume Diver – A unique square-case dive watch with a fully lumed dial inspired by The Great Wave off Kanagawa

Mark Time M6 – A boldly minimalist sports watch with brutalist design and exceptional legibility

Helm Togiak Field Watch – Helm’s first field watch, featuring classic tool-watch durability and signature Helm lume

Heron Mirabell GMT (Cigar Club Edition) – A dressy traveler’s GMT with a salmon enamel dial and fully lumed face

Christopher Ward C60 Clipper GMT Pan Am Edition – A limited-edition GMT celebrating Pan Am aviation history

All watches discussed are hands-on, with a mix of personal purchases, loaners, and review samples. Full specs, wearability impressions, movement choices, and design critiques are covered throughout the video.

If you’re searching for:

Microbrand dive watches

Affordable GMT watches

Field watches under $1,000

Unique lume dials

New microbrand watch releases

…this video is for you.

0:00 Welcome to the Microbrand Monthly
2:18 – MMI Cuttlechron – Lume as Art
5:00 – Helm Togiak – Why This One Matters
7:25 – Christopher Ward Pan-Am – The GMT I Didn’t Expect
10:04 – Heron Mirabel – A Dress GMT That Actually Works
12:07 – Mark Time M6 – Love It or Hate It Design
Top 5 New Microbrand Watches — January Edition
Strap Mill Canada Watch Strap Review | Unboxing, Try-On & Sizing Test

In this video, I unbox, size, try on, and test three watch straps from Strap Mill Canada — including a premium ratchet clasp rubber strap and two high-quality leather watch straps made with Horween and Palmellato leather.

Check out SMC: https://www.strapmillcanada.com/
Get a Just The Watch hoodie: https://shop.justthewatch.com

📦 What’s in the Box

Black Ratchet Clasp Rubber Strap – $77

Carrot Palmellato Padded Leather Watch Strap – $50

Black Horween Chromexcel Vintage Leather Watch Strap – $54

Strap Mill Canada coasters

⌚ Black Ratchet Clasp Rubber Strap Review

This strap combines a CTS rubber strap with a tool-free micro-adjust expansion clasp, giving it the feel of a bracelet with the comfort of rubber. It starts compact (not oversized), expands smoothly, and feels premium enough for luxury watches while still elevating budget pieces.

I walk through how to size the strap, including where to cut and how to dial in the fit safely. Paired here with my Ginault Silent Service, this is one of the few straps that can genuinely compete with the stock bracelet.

🟧 Carrot Palmellato Padded Leather Watch Strap

A bold, saturated leather strap with a unique Palmellato texture. This color works best with lighter dials — shown here on my Erebus Ascent (white dial). The padded construction adds structure without feeling bulky.

⚫ Horween Chromexcel Leather Watch Strap (Black)

A classic Horween Chromexcel leather watch strap with a smooth finish, deep black color, and surprisingly lightweight feel. I paired it with my Pitzman Chronograph, and it’s the kind of essential strap every collection needs — excellent quality at a very reasonable price.

🧵 Strap Materials & Details

Black Ratchet Clasp Rubber Strap – $80
Premium rubber strap with tool-free micro-adjust expansion clasp.

Palmellato Padded Leather Watch Strap – $50
Vegetable-tanned leather from Puccini Tannery, embossed with a cork roll texture. Lined with Zermatt leather from Haas Tannery (France) for water resistance, breathability, and comfort.

Horween Chromexcel Vintage Leather Strap – $55
Made with leather from the Horween Tannery (Chicago) using a combination vegetable and chrome tanning process. Features a natural pull-up effect and Zermatt leather lining.

👍 If you enjoy watch strap reviews, unboxings, and real-world tests, consider subscribing and let me know which strap you’d choose in the comments.

#WatchStraps #StrapMillCanada #WatchStrapReview #HorweenChromexcel #RubberWatchStrap #WatchUnboxing #MicroAdjustClasp
This Rubber Watch Strap System Is Brilliant | Strap Mill Canada Review
Anson Belt & Buckle: Step up your belt game — get 2 bonus pieces FREE with the Box Set at http://ansonbelt.com/jtw100
You can still get great watches for under $100 — if you know where to look.

In this video, I went looking for the best watches under $100 that you can actually buy right now. These are watches I personally like, would enjoy wearing myself, and would confidently recommend to anyone getting started in watch collecting, or anyone looking for a great affordable everyday watch.

Why $100? This price point is the sweet spot where you can still get a durable analog watch that looks better than a smartwatch or cheap digital watch, and can handle daily wear. It’s ideal for a first watch, trying a new style, or building a versatile budget collection.

I cover 7 watches under $100, including options from major brands like Casio, Timex, and Invicta, Chinese brands like Addiesdive, Steeldive, and Miltado, and even a rare microbrand option that surprised me.

Along the way, I also explain:

Where to find good affordable watches (Amazon, AliExpress, microbrands)

What to avoid at this price (cheap cases, bad water resistance, poor straps)

Why bad straps aren’t always a deal breaker

What specs actually matter under $100

If you’re wondering “Can you still buy a good watch for under $100?” — this video answers that question.

Watches Featured in this video (Affiliate links)
1.  Casio MDV-107 (Bracelet): https://amzn.to/4qpc8KQ
     Casio MDV-106 (Strap): https://amzn.to/49oCYwH
2. Timex Waterbury: https://amzn.to/4aYDnqZ
3. Invicta Pro Diver: https://amzn.to/49XAPZ2
4. Steeldive SD1944 https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4e3MTmP
5. Addieddive AS2030: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4CWnuWT
6. Miltado: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4BDXVSr
7. Ratio Freediver: https://amzn.to/3Liz2Vf

0:00 Can you get a good watch for $100?
2:08 Mainstream Watches
2:30 1. Timex Waterbury Chrono
6:33 2. Casio Duro
9:00 3. Invicta Pro Diver
11:00 Chinese Watches
11:35 4. Steeldive
13:42 5. Addiesdive
16:32 6. Miltado
18:44 Microbrands
19:23 7. Ratio
The best watches under $100 -- and how to find them
Is this the best digital watch Casio has ever made?
In this video, I review the Casio G-Shock GW-BX5600, the first square G-Shock to combine a MIP (Memory In Pixel) display, Bluetooth, and Multiband 6 in a classic 5600 form factor — and I explain why it may set a new benchmark for real-world watch functionality.

LINKS TO PURCHASE WATCHES IN THIS VIDEO
(Note, the MIP watch featured is not yet available in the US)
GW-BX5600 (MIP): https://www.casio.com/intl/watches/gshock/product.GW-BX5600-1/
DW-5600RL (LCD) (Affiliate): https://amzn.to/3NkZ8qZ
Casio Royale (LCD)(Affiliate): https://amzn.to/3YsOLE7
AE-1500WH: https://amzn.to/3NdkTcj
My Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/justthewatch

The GW-BX5600 builds on earlier MIP G-Shocks like the GBX-100, GDB-200, and DW-H5600, but refines the formula into a smaller, simpler, and more practical everyday watch — all at around $200 / ¥30,800.

🔍 What I Cover in This Review

• MIP Display – Pros & Cons
The biggest upgrade. Higher resolution, better contrast, wider viewing angles, larger numbers, and labeled menus that make setting the watch dramatically easier. I also cover the downsides, including the slower refresh rate and screen timeout behavior.

• Backlight Performance
The LED backlight is usable in total darkness but dim compared to other Casios — and I explain why it holds back otherwise excellent legibility.

• Size & Wearability
Nearly identical to the DW-5600, with a slightly larger screen:

44mm wide

48mm lug-to-lug

12mm thick

• GW-M5610 vs GW-BX5600
Same core functions, but with Bluetooth added and a vastly improved display — plus a discussion of what you don’t get compared to the 5610.

• AE-1200 “Royale” Comparison
Why the Royale still wins on accessibility and backlight — but not on accuracy, durability, or long-term convenience.

⌚ Features & Functionality

Time & Date
World Time
5 Alarms
Stopwatch (1/100s)
Countdown Timer
Auto LED Backlight
Bluetooth (phone finder & easier setup)
Multiband 6 atomic timekeeping
Solar powered (no battery changes)

🏆 Why This Might Be the Best Watch Ever

When judged on the things that actually matter in daily life — accuracy, durability, legibility, functionality, and convenience — the GW-BX5600 arguably ranks at the very top. It’s incredibly low-maintenance, always accurate, intuitive to use, and tough enough to outlast almost anything else.

It’s not a smartwatch. It’s not flashy.
But as a pure tool watch, this may be the most complete digital watch Casio has ever made.

If you’re interested in G-Shock reviews, Casio MIP displays, or finding the best everyday digital watch, this one’s worth a close look.

👇 Let me know in the comments: Is the GW-BX5600 the new king of G-Shock squares?
Casio’s MIP G-Shock Might Be the Best Watch Ever
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