When Titanium Is This Cheap, Why Buy Steel? Citizen NY0100

Summary

This video discusses the rise of affordable titanium watches, comparing them to traditional stainless steel options. The host reviews two Citizen ProMaster titanium watches, emphasizing their lightweight design, durability, and high value for the price, especially when purchased on sale. While titanium watches used to be more expensive, brands now offer them at more competitive prices. The review highlights pros like Citizen's five-year warranty, proprietary coatings, and minimal scratching, while noting drawbacks like the use of mineral crystal instead of sapphire. Ultimately, the video suggests enjoying both titanium and steel in a watch collection.

Takeaways

• 💡 Titanium watches have become more affordable and widespread in 2023 compared to 5-10 years ago.
• ⌚ The speaker owns several titanium watches and expects them to play a more significant role in their collection in the future.
• 🇦🇺 The review focuses on two Citizen ProMaster titanium watches owned by an Aussie subscriber, both purchased for under 400 AUD (around 270 USD).
• 🔧 Titanium watches are significantly lighter, with one reviewed watch weighing 111 grams, compared to 150 grams for a similar stainless steel version.
• 🛠️ The reviewed watches feature Citizen’s proprietary super titanium, which takes a polish well and feels smoother due to the Duratect coating.
• 📏 Dimensions: The reviewed watch has a 41.5 mm diameter, 13.4 mm thickness, and 48.5 mm lug-to-lug size, with a 20 mm wide bracelet.
• 🛡️ The watch is ISO 6425 rated with a 200-meter water resistance, and comes with a 5-year warranty if purchased from an authorized dealer.
• 💵 The Citizen RRP is seen as overly high, with the speaker suggesting it’s not worth 1150 AUD, but great value around 400 AUD.
• 💬 The bezel and handset are functional but not overly refined, though the titanium material provides durability and lightness.
• 🔍 A key downside of the watch is the use of mineral crystal instead of sapphire, which the speaker sees as a drawback at higher price points.

Q & A

Why does the video suggest buying titanium watches over steel ones?

The video suggests that titanium watches are becoming more affordable and widely available, offering benefits like lighter weight and durability, while previously they were more expensive and less common. With prices around $270 USD for some models, titanium watches offer a competitive alternative to steel.

What are the key advantages of titanium watches mentioned in the video?

The key advantages of titanium watches include their lighter weight, durability, and resistance to scratches due to Citizen's proprietary Duratect coating. Additionally, titanium offers a unique appearance, and Citizen's 'super titanium' allows for a polished finish, unlike typical grade 2 titanium.

What are some downsides of titanium watches as compared to steel watches?

One downside is that titanium watches, particularly those made from grade 2 titanium, can appear dull and feel slightly different from steel. However, Citizen’s 'super titanium' used in the reviewed watches minimizes these disadvantages. Another drawback is the price point, as some people still prefer the feel and look of steel.

What specific models of titanium watches are being reviewed in the video?

The video reviews two Citizen ProMaster titanium watches, specifically the NY0100-50X (green) and NY0100-50M (blue) models, both featuring the Miyota 8204 automatic movement.

How do the Citizen ProMaster titanium watches compare to similar steel watches in terms of weight?

The titanium watches weigh significantly less than their steel counterparts. The reviewed titanium watch weighs 111 grams, whereas a similar steel Citizen watch would weigh around 150 grams, making the titanium option more comfortable for daily wear.

What does the video mention about the Citizen warranty?

The video highlights Citizen's impressive five-year warranty on both their automatic and Eco-Drive models, which is a significant advantage compared to other brands like Seiko or Tudor, whose warranties are generally shorter for watches in this price range.

What criticism does the video make about the pricing of Citizen titanium watches?

The video criticizes Citizen’s official retail price (RRP) of $1150 AUD for being overly optimistic. The reviewer believes the watch is worth far less, as discounted prices of around $399 AUD (approximately $265 USD) represent a more realistic value for the features offered.

What does the video say about the durability of the Citizen ProMaster titanium watches?

The video praises the durability of the Citizen ProMaster titanium watches, especially with the Duratect coating, which protects the watch from scratches. The reviewer mentions that after weeks of use, the watches have shown virtually no wear.

What are some aesthetic features of the Citizen ProMaster titanium watches discussed in the video?

The video describes the watches’ aesthetic features, such as the polished sides, brushed upper surfaces, and the sunburst effect on the dial. The green and blue dials are complemented by high-polished silver surrounds and a red accent on the minute and second hands.

What does the video suggest about mineral crystal versus sapphire crystal for these watches?

The video criticizes the use of mineral crystal instead of sapphire, especially considering Citizen's high RRP. The reviewer believes that for the price, even at a discounted $265 USD, a sapphire crystal would have been a better choice, adding value to the watch.