Two Broke Watch Snobs

In this episode of Two Broke Watch Snobs, Mike and Kaz dive into the whole “chronometer” thing—what the label actually means, how different certifications stack up, and why accuracy still matters even if most of us are just timing pasta water. Along the way, they swap stories about their own watches, crack a few jokes at each other’s expense, and try to cut through the noise so collectors and enthusiasts know what’s worth caring about (and what’s just marketing fluff).Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Millennial Pause02:57 Experimenting with Podcast Format05:59 Understanding Chronometers09:00 Wrist Check: Personal Watch Experiences11:54 Chronometer Certification Explained14:51 The Value of Chronometer Certification26:48 Chronometer Certification: Worth the Paper?35:07 The Evolution of Chronometer Standards46:44 Technological Marvels in Watch Accuracy51:54 Final Thoughts on Chronometer Certification

This week, Mike and Kaz take a perilous scroll through the digital back alley of horology: AliExpress. What begins as innocent curiosity quickly devolves into uncovering horrors like a G-Shock knockoff that might secretly be a spy device, a faceted-case “dress watch” branded with a name so dark and questionable it probably requires a visit from law enforcement, and even a shameless clone of one of the Snobs’ favorite microbrand models. It’s equal parts comedy, tragedy, and public service announcement as the guys ask the eternal question: just because you can buy it for $3.99 with free shipping… should you?

$200 or less. That’s the magic number, folks—one and done! The boys are back at it, and in today’s episode, Kaz and Mike are diving into the one-watch-collection concept from a budget-friendly angle. Too often, people think a one-watch collection means shelling out for some outrageous, high-end piece. But, there are some seriously solid options out there that won’t break the bank. After recording this episode, you might just find yourself tempted to snag a couple of these beauties—trust us, the Two Broke Watch Snobs are feeling it! And that’s not all! Mike added a new watch to his collection, and Kaz has unearthed a long-lost TBWS artifact that’s making its triumphant return. You won’t want to miss this epic wrist check! They'll also chat about some exciting new releases featured on the site, dive into some quirky astronaut-adjacent collectibles, and share plans for future episodes. This one’s packed with fun, so don’t miss out! Show notes: Halios Seaforth: https://halioswatches.com/products/sfiv Orient Star GMT: https://twobrokewatchsnobs.com/orient-star-gmt-wz0071dj-review/ Rdunae Legendary Diver: https://rdunae.com/Rdunae-R6-Legendary-Diver-p488713236 Timex Q Falcon Chronograph: https://twobrokewatchsnobs.com/timex-q-falcon-eye-chronograph/ Casio EFB Chronograph: https://www.casio.com/intl/watches/edifice/product.EFB-730D-7AV/ Orient Mako Series (but check Amazon if you look for one): https://www.orientwatchusa.com/collections/orient-mako Timex Field Solar 36mm: https://timex.com/products/expedition-field-solar-36mm-eco-friendly-leather-strap-watch-tw2v64200 A whole batch of Eco-Drive watches on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/citizen-eco-drive-watches/s?k=citizen+eco+drive+watches Amazon Essentials Watch: https://www.amazon.com/Amazon-Essentials-Mens-Strap-Watch/dp/B0CCYQNNMT?th=1

In this episode of Two Book Watch Snobs, Mike and Kaz discuss their recent experiences with watches, travel, and photography. They delve into Mike's trip to Iceland, exploring the intersection of travel and watch collecting, and share insights on photography in different environments. They talk about packing strategies, the philosophy of traveling with just one watch, and the mishaps that can occur with watches during adventures. The discussion also touches on watch maintenance, repair, and the unique experience of visiting JS Watch Co., a small watch manufacturer in Iceland. As they wrap up, they brainstorm ideas for future episodes, including challenges related to affordable and vintage watches. Show notes The Christmas Chrono: https://twobrokewatchsnobs.com/orient-wv0051tx-neo70s-limited-edition-review/ CWC Royal Navy Diver: https://twobrokewatchsnobs.com/cwc-1980-royal-navy-diver/ Watches in Iceland: https://twobrokewatchsnobs.com/four-watches-across-iceland/ WOE Canvas Watch Roll: https://www.watchesofespionage.com/products/the-w-o-e-explorer-canvas-4-watch-roll Make Way for Ducklings: https://www.boston-discovery-guide.com/make-way-for-ducklings.html

After a bit of a break (life happens), Kaz and Mike are back on the mics and immediately dive into one of those questions that never seem to go away: Are luxury watch brands actually worth the price? It’s not exactly a yes-or-no thing. They end up wandering through everything from the storytelling behind big names to that weird-but-compelling pull Panerai still manages to have. They also get into Tudor, and not just the watches, but the "waiting" for Tudor. The brand seems to demand a kind of patience that collectors aren't always great at. Grand Seiko comes up too, especially those 9F quartz movements. But more than anything, this one’s about trying to unpack what makes a watch feel “worth it.” It's not always specs. Sometimes it's personal history, or just that irrational connection you can't explain. Somewhere along the way, the guys also touch on brand perception, marketing, and why it’s okay to admit a watch is too expensive, but still want it anyway. It’s a therapy session disguised as a podcast episode, basically. Show Notes Seiko Turtle: https://twobrokewatchsnobs.com/seiko-turtle-review-and-info/ Monta Triumph: https://twobrokewatchsnobs.com/monta-triumph-military-green-limited-edition/ Grand Seiko SBGV233 9F Quartz: https://twobrokewatchsnobs.com/grand-seiko-quartz-review-my-grail-the-sbgv233/ Panerai Luminor: https://twobrokewatchsnobs.com/panerai-luminor-marina-review/ Formula 1 Solargraph: https://www.tagheuer.com/us/en/timepieces/collections/tag-heuer-formula-1/tag-heuer-formula-1-date/ Christopher Ward C12 Loco: https://www.christopherward.com/int/watches/The-C12-Loco/C12-41H6D1-S00K0-B0.html