Things must be slowing down in the world, I remember when if you did not get on the mailing list early, you would have a number in the thousands after an hour or two. Got on 2 lists and both numbers are below 300 and that was later in the day.

#388 for an Expedition. That’ll give a little time to set a few bucks aside for it.

I’m undecided between the gray and the full lume cream color. I’ll probably go with the latter as I don’t currently have anything in that configuration.

Boss

#584 for the 08AR3 yellow fellow.

I don’t understand the fuss about a Chinese made watch, when German and Japanese models exist at the same price point.

Just because something has a nice website and slathers the right photos doesn’t mean it isn’t ChiCom stuff.

Heck, Vaer even assembles watches in the USA, using non-Chinese parts at a similar price point.

TOGIAK EXPEDITION UTC #65

To be fair, Helm is American owned/operated, and collaborative with Hong Kong and China.

They started well before the current state of things. They are also a very high value watch…ISO certified with a ton of specs. Arguably one of the the best bangs-for-the bucket out there. The Vanuatu really put them on the map and built a following. But things have definitely slowed for them based on the short lists so far.

It’s been awhile since I purchased a watch, but the Expo is nice enough for me to get on the list.

And fwiw, Vaer does make a nice American option.

Boss

I’ll bow out, because I understand the hook of a well made object at an attractive price point, but the US is littered with companies that are US owned/operated but make their items in a hostile country.

There are things we generally cannot change, iPhones are made in China etc; but for discretionary purchases, let’s do our part to employ Americans (or at the very least, not send money to China).

The most hated label for me is “designed in (insert iconic US location), made in China”

quote:

Originally posted by reloader-1:
I’ll bow out, because I understand the hook of a well made object at an attractive price point, but the US is littered with companies that are US owned/operated but make their items in a hostile country.

There are things we generally cannot change, iPhones are made in China etc; but for discretionary purchases, let’s do our part to employ Americans (or at the very least, not send money to China).

The most hated label for me is “designed in (insert iconic US location), made in China”

You honestly think you can get away from made in China? The Chinese are making parts for Rolex!

That’s how good they have become at this shit.

RMD

quote:

Originally posted by reloader-1:
Heck, Vaer even assembles watches in the USA, using non-Chinese parts at a similar price point.

The Vaer A5 (shown in your post) is listed at $659.00 on their website, and the Helm Scout, which it is similar to in 'looks', is listed at $265.00.

A difference of $394.00, which is around 60% more, is not a 'similar price point'.

Received an email…will be ready to purchase in a few days. Sooner than expected…Funny…looking at my place in line, it’s only clicked up maybe one spot.

The silver face colorway is tempting, but I think I’m leaning towards the full lume cream color with probably the elapsed time or maybe the compass bezel (I never really use bezels for their intended function). I don’t have any full lume face watches. Decisions, decisions…

We’ll see.

Boss

I’m curious if anyone has purchased a watch from their position on the list. Was the final price as advertised?

Great watches !

quote:

Originally posted by Oscars father:
I’m curious if anyone has purchased a watch from their position on the list. Was the final price as advertised?

Exactly as advertised. I made my purchase for the Togiak on Oct 5th. Price $340. Plus $35 shipping and a $15 tariff fee. Total $390 which is what I was charged. Due to arrive in the next few days. Shipped on the 11th.

Thank you!

quote:

Originally posted by Oscars father:
I’m curious if anyone has purchased a watch from their position on the list. Was the final price as advertised?

I went ahead and bought the Scout instead of the Gmt. Should be here tomorrow according to tracking. $265 watch + $50.00 tariff and shipping.
$315

As advertised.
Paid on 09/21
Delivered 10/03