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K.T.N
1264
Jun 25, 2017
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Any know much about the Deep Blue brand?
I find it notable how many different watch companies have sprung up fairly recently. Some of them quite nascent (though Deep Blue seems to have been founded in 2007).
I think it speaks to global production and outsourcing these days, versus the in-house design, research, innovation, and production of the more established watchmakers of the past.
I'm just speculating here, but it seems like there's fairly easy entry into this market - come up with a few designs, and have them produced overseas by an OEM manufacturer (probably in China), using off-the-shelf movements. You don't even have to understand the intricacies of watchmaking - just leave it to the OEM.
The results can be very good, sure, and the prices can be fairly affordable. But it often seems like the focus is on the uniqueness of the design, rather than quality, innovation, or workmanship.
The track record isn't there, and the watches seem like just another commodity product made simply for the business of selling watches.
The pedigree isn't there, nor a clear understanding of what the company's motivation or purpose is.
I'm not saying Deep Blue is that, but I've only heard their name recently on Massdrop, and it makes me think of all the other myriad watch companies out there that are something of a question mark.
Anyway, this may be the wrong place to discuss it, but it does strike me when I run across a watch company I've only recently heard of.
Jun 25, 2017
idoc72
1181
Jun 25, 2017
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K.T.NThe odd thing about about this situation is that DB's "homage" (or blatant copy if you prefer) is actually more expensive than Seiko's original! And this isn't the first time they've done it (reference the SKX line). Granted, they put together some nice components that will be attractive to some people at this price point - it's a solid, relatively well reviewed watch. But it would be nice if they got back to doing it with some original designs.
Jun 25, 2017
Cloaca
1906
Nov 3, 2017
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K.T.NI know that this response is months late, but as a memo to self:
Deep Blue is based in Brooklyn, New York, founded in 2007, and its founder/president is Stan Betesh. He also runs the Panatime.com watch band website. The New York Department of State corporations search doesn't seem to list a Deep Blue something-or-other company founded circa 2007, so it may be a DBA for some other corporate entity. A new brand was introduced in 2015, Air Blue, for pilot watches.
Various articles and interviews about the company:
https://www.watchtime.com/blog/bright-idea-deep-blues-affordable-dive-watches/ http://www.watchpro.com/dive-qa-stan-betesh-at-deep-blue-watches/ http://iwmagazine.com/news-and-now/20130827/underwater-explorers/
And from a Watchuseek forum thread:
""""" Got one like it with a black dial. They're made in China under contract using a cataloge case. DB has been around about 4 years or so (I think) and make a good product, myself having also purchased a Master Timer. No complaints on this model other than there was an issue a year ago with members having a hard time getting the bracelet screws out (and back in) when changing to a different strap. For the money, it's a helluva watch although I do not know if it is ISO rated. Not an issue for me either way though. edit: lest someone think a Chinese cataloge case watch is a bad thing, many of the boutique brands do the same. No shame in it, just thought I'd mention this. ----- Just to add a little more info for the OP. The company Deep Blue is owned/operated by Stan Betesh out of New York, New York where he has a small showroom for the Deep Blue line of watches. (by appointment only) He also co-owns Panatime which is also a watch related business selling thousands of straps in any size shape or material you could think of. The quality of Deep Blue is VERY good with many, many, sold thanks to his partnership with ShopNBC. As already mentioned, the watches are made/built PRC/HK but they are just as good as most all of the other boutique watch companies I've sampled. (and that's a bunch!) The best thing about Stan and DB is their customer service. As with any mass produced product there will always be a few that get past QC with flaws or just a flat out lemon of a watch. But the way they (DB) handle the issues that do come up is where they SHINE! I don't think I've ever seen/heard of an issue with any DB watch that wasn't taken care of by Stan in the fastest manner possible and he will strive to make sure you the customer are completely satisfied! The only snag I've heard of is with the watch sold through ShopNBC, warranty issues could get sticky but so far Stan has honored the warranty directly. """""
Nov 3, 2017
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