Zodiac Killer. The Proxima PX1703 and its Killer Case! Full review.

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I recently bought a brand new Zodiac Super SeaWolf 53 Compression at a really good price. Normally I would not have been able to do so.
The watch looked awesome but it soon became apparent that although the diameter was ok, the longer lug length created a problem...
...It did not sit nicely on my wrist. I was soooo disappointed!
At the same time I discovered that Proxima were making a homage to that watch. The Proxima PX1703, a loose homage, but the case is one that sits beautifully on my wrist.
Suffice to say the Proxima PX1703 is the most comfortable watch I have purchased from AliExpress. The dimensions will suit many a wrist and make many watch enthusiasts smile.
It may not have the full looks of a Zodiac, but it does enough for me!
Will the Proxima PX1703 be your next Purchase?
Watch my review and make up your own mind and remember to let me know your thoughts in the comments :)
You can buy the Proxima PX1703 via my AliExpress Affiliate links below.
You will not pay any extra but you will be helping to support the channel going forward. Thank you for your support :)
Proxima PX1703
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Proxima PX1711
s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DF7...

Опубликовано:

30 окт 2023

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Комментарии : 118

@caktaylor 8 месяцев назад

I appreciate that although the colors evoke a Sea Wolf, the watch itself isn’t actually a copy of the Sea Wolf. I would love to see this in watermelon or lemon-lime colors. And on sale. $270 is more than I am willing to spend on a Proxima.

@spuckuk7039 8 месяцев назад

love that Proxima put their own spin on things instead of being straight up homages

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Agreed 👍

@AlexanderB. 8 месяцев назад

Clearly the best Proxima so far! I prefer the closed caseback when it caters for a thinner watch all day long. And thankfully they spared us the unicorn logo. More colours please!

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Agreed 👍

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Again...yes!

@richlouis8794 8 месяцев назад

Nice review. I also like the case design of this watch because it wears so well. I hope they keep it and continue to come up with interesting watch face designs.

@thomasstanley6101 8 месяцев назад

This one's quite handsome! Simultaneously slick and well stylized. I like the new mic for the bezel action. Thanks John!

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Thanks. The mic I bought recently was the Sennheiser Profile with a boom arm which cost nearly £200. Great but had noise cancellation so it cut out watch clicks! Now back with two Samson Go-mics which cost a total of £30! One for live shots on the phone and one for voice overs on the pc but passed thru AI and they sound great...Well...at least I hope they do 😆

@adk7962 8 месяцев назад

That’s a stunner. I definitely have to pick up one these Proximas with this case. I didn’t even know this was a homage. And I think you’re right, three watches with the exact same case is about the limit. Brilliant review as always sir.

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Thanks Albert. It is a loose homage but the hands make it so. They are great watches with a stunning case. Sooo comfortable:)

@daveindevon5240 8 месяцев назад

I love my PX1697. The case looks so good on wrist and is so comfortable. I don't mind if they continue to use it, so long as they produce attractive designs. I share your appreciation of the Proxima brand John. Great review as usual.

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Cheers Dave. I suppose I have to be consistent as I rag on SM for exactly the same thing. I would love them to square off the top tonneau style and put a raised bezel on like a true skindiver with a 37mm case... I can dream I suppose 😆

@natev70r 8 месяцев назад

Great review as always John. Steinhart and Squale use the same case for a lot of their watches with different color dials, bezels and hand sets as well. I think Proxima is smart to use this CW style case instead of the usual submariner style. I think it's a great case for a dressier style diver. It's not the classic tool diver. Look at how Rolex has blinged up the Submariner over the years. I think once Proxima becomes more established with watch buyers, they will branch out more. I personally would rather see more variety in dial, bezel and hand sets than cases. I know you're just being consistent in your reviews. We all appreciate that.😊

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Hi there and thanks for your comments. I am actually in agreement with you but I don't think the watches are selling as they thought. These cases have been recycled from older models so when I said there were three models using this case, it turns out it is five or six . I like the case but you and I both know how punters think.....hmm that's an older case...is there nothing new ? 😆

@claycox5285 4 дня назад

John, i always enjoy the introduction portion of your videos as this brings clear perspective to the rest of your review.

@johnswatchjoint 4 дня назад

Hey buddy how are you? I do like to make it a little more personal but it is more difficult with most AliExpress watches....this though was a genuine alternative :) back in a few weeks. Gymwork ramping up and fitness levels getting better!

@claycox5285 4 дня назад

Glad you are on the mend. Have a great weekend

@johnswatchjoint 4 дня назад

You too buddy 🙂

@bruceworley2898 8 месяцев назад

Stunning watch. I've been looking forward to seeing a review on this model and now I think I'm convinced - will pick one up in the 11.11 sale if they offer a decent enough discount.

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

They have one on just now with vouchers. It may be cheaper in 11.11 sale but we shall see! Thanks for watching :)

@TomasPerez-en6bp 8 месяцев назад

The amount of gorgeous color you get with this is part of the pull to this for me the only thing I'd want to change is to take that white dial is make it a full lumed dial.

@kenweller2032 8 месяцев назад

Very nice!! I bought the PX1697, in white, in large part due to your review. This is tempting, but I don't have a large collection and it is, as you said, similar in many ways. This new watch lacks some of the odd quibbles some had with the 1697. No lume mismatch (in daylight) between the hands and face, and the date has a nice clean sans-serif font. I've had my PX1697 for five months with almost constant wear and the PT5000 has been very stable at -5 seconds a day. Can't complain!!

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

They are great watches and are well regulated. Thanks for sharing 😊

@sivanstar 8 месяцев назад

I love the design, case, bezel, sterile look, clasp and the bracelet although its a bit boring but its comfortable and well made and thats important. I wish they made the dial color bolder, something funky like orange amd purple and some color combination to make it pop and i wouldnt mind the bracelet. The same abt the serica homage, wish they made the same bracelet. This is a brand ill keep a close eye on they make wonderful products! Keep reviewing them i love it 😍

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

I was in a long chat with them last night and cost comes into it....wait for my next deal video to see what I mean...this colour is a lead in. If it sells them they will introduce new colours. I have made some suggestions that they are looking into :)

@markmahood3093 8 месяцев назад

The 1697 is one on my hit list. Not sure the orange on this is a colour i could live with but it's another great review. Thanks!

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Cheers Mark :)

@XjohnjohnX88 8 месяцев назад

I have the PX1697 so I know how good it is. I love this watch! And this one is as beautiful as the 1697. But too similar to be interested to buy it. And as you said, a bit boring now (btw, I don't like their Serica hommage). Great review, John 👍

@medicenquillos 8 месяцев назад

Thank you for this great review! Which one wears smaller and confy, this Proxima or the San Martin 6200 BB58? Thank you in advance!

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Hi there. They both wear small and fit my 6.75 inch wrist nicely but the Proxima is the most comfortable and conforms to the wrist like it was made for it.

@tedblack2415 8 месяцев назад

Probably my most preferred to date , the case /bracelet combo appear to mould nicely around the wrist , it is well made & finished but mind you the pricing is steadily creeping up nowadays , probably cos of the 11-11 sale looming it initially has to be a tad overpriced .

@JTT2505 8 месяцев назад

A signed crown lookd nice on a macro shot but it's hardly noticeable on the wrist. No big deal in my opinion. 😊

@anthonydevono8833 8 месяцев назад

I think it looks really good in this colour scheme I’m not sure about price point but it definitely stands out!

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Roll on the Sale 😄

@felo6035 8 месяцев назад

Very happy that you reviewed John, many thanks mate. Absolutely lovely, and it is sitting in my basket waiting for the 11.11 sale to see if it will be further discounted, although tempted to but it now with the current discount... Thank you again, and be well.

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

No problem my friend. This is a comfortable and cheerful watch...making up for the disappointment of having to say goodbye to the real deal so soon :{

@felo6035 8 месяцев назад

@@johnswatchjointI wouldn't be able to wear the real thing either as my wrist is also 6.75in. Hope you sell it well. Take care. Cheers

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

I was gutted but sold it for a small profit which is fine :)

@felo6035 8 месяцев назад

@johnswatchjoint Well, at least you didn't lose money.... cheers my friend.

@felo6035 8 месяцев назад

@@pdriver7269I like them....

@philiproberts1473 8 месяцев назад

Thanks, another great review,. Definitely high on my list for the 11/11 sale, though perhaps too recently released for a big discount. Is the dial off white, as it seemed to look in the video?

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Yes , enamel white so not Dulux white :)

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Yes . In keeping with the watch being Homages and period correct :)

@bobbymoses 8 месяцев назад

How many times has the big R used the oyster case? Would love to see Proxima make a explorer/bb36 style watch with this case.

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

You're not wrong...that would be cool to see :)

@nathanaelsmith3553 8 месяцев назад

Nice Halloween Pumpkin colourway

@michaelj8793 8 месяцев назад

I'm having trouble finding faults with Proxima watches in general I've been a huge fan for a couple of years now and I'm especially glad they have upped their bracelet game I'm constantly wearing the four I have in my rotation and I'm constantly recieving complements on all of them and it doesn't hurt the fact that they are willing to do slight modifications to personalize most of the watches I have received from them at reasonably upcharge Thanks for sharing as always my friend I choose them over SanMartin Everytime with no regrets Be well my friend 👍

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Thank you and thanks for sharing. For me Proxima are top notch. San Martin just don't cut it in comparison for customer service but they do make very decent watches and Baltany are doing a great job in general.

@michaelj8793 8 месяцев назад

@@johnswatchjoint Completely agree and Baltamy continues to impress as well I always appreciate and enjoy your honest content my friend Keep em coming your quality reviews continue to impress Seriously Be well and Stay Safe 👍

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Thank you 🙏

@Man_Ray78 8 месяцев назад

You can't always get what you want. I have the outstanding Proxima PX 1701 in this same case but i asked them why they would not homage the original CW Sapphire with the same blue sapphire case back( of my blue and orange version ). they answered me that it was just not that easy. And then they put out the Serica Homage, that Ipose, Xi & Dao had just done ( i also have) Sapphire bezel is just right. This is great, PX1703, But i'll wait for other colors in this model.

@dubcheck2943 8 месяцев назад

A different colour and i could be tempted.

@RabbitWatchShop 8 месяцев назад

Homage inspiration aside, that’s a gorgeous watch.

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

It is that :)

@larx4074 8 месяцев назад

Seriously good looking watch, shame that the minute hand is too short..............

@timeandnourishment1961 3 месяца назад

From the future, John: the supplied screwdriver is too big. Luckily, I have smaller ones 😂. It's a beaut in every way and I love mine. Cheers 🍻!

@JonTheComputerDoctor 8 месяцев назад

For me that is a stunner but a bit on the expensive side. PT5000 movements can feel gritty when winding this is due to the reverser wheels not correctly lubricated, best thing to do is replace them with the swiss parts, an easy job.

@thegorn 8 месяцев назад

Doesn't sound easy

@vonkruel 8 месяцев назад

@@thegorn it's _situationally_ easy, such as when you're already comfortable with opening the case & digging into the auto works. If the reverser wheels aren't lubricated properly, you could _situationally_ clean them and then lubricate them with Lubeta V105 before restoring the automatic module. I've been wondering whether Proxima expects PT5000's to arrive unregulated & with inconsistent lubrication, but takes on the responsibility to check out each movement. They'd want to see amplitude, beat error, and rate all within certain ranges (defined by them). Anyway I'm quite tempted to try the PT5000 version of the watch.

@edwardsjohnpaul 8 месяцев назад

Great review, very thorough. However, I'm starting to question the pricing on homage watches like this. Seems to me for not very much more money, you could get an original microbrand, or an Orient, Citizen, or Seiko, something that might even appreciate in value -- I don't see the likes of Promixa, IX&DAO, or San Martin, however nice watches they may be, ever doing that. There's a reason to pay less than 3 figures on an Addiesdive / Steeldive / Pagani homage, that is 10% (or much less) than the watch it is homage-ing; but for a Proxima, 230GBP seems a lot.

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Thanks for your thoughts, however when I sell these watches on after review I get very good prices...much better than that of Orient for example. You will not make any money on watches around this price point I am afraid ;)

@gregtolley3455 8 месяцев назад

Love it, brand the crown and clasp.

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Thanks Greg 🙂

@user-np9tg3jj1v 8 месяцев назад

I like it a Lot , I have only one Proxima ( The translucent dial, Same case as you are showing) and I think they made superb watches, this size is pretty good for small wrist users, very versatile. Unfortunately I haven't enough extra money for this one 🥹 I need a Sugarmommy right now !!

@MatthewHartsuch 8 месяцев назад

love the lume on the sapphire bezel, now the only question is should I get a Proxima, a Seestern, a Baltany, or a San Martin? Its hard to decide, but I feel like Seestern is really killing it with finish on the clomages right now, but Baltany has some really sophisticated looking watches that are more unique.

@sivanstar 8 месяцев назад

Oh i know what you mean😂 I have a seestern black pvd full lume monster and that thing is perfect. I also have a GS diver homage but it was far from perfect and i fixed some issues myself. Was thinking to get the seestern 62 mas but I'm contemplating between it and the seiko 62 darth mas. Which seestern are you thinking of getting?

@MatthewHartsuch 8 месяцев назад

@@sivanstar well I really like the SUB600T, but also the S434/S416 really looks nice. I know the SUB600T has been hovering around $130 ($110 on sale), but I was really hoping to see it drop below $90 and then I might jump on it. I tend to be an opportunistic buyer, so Im just waiting to see what goes on sale. So far San Martin had some real good deals such as a military watch for $80 with coins, but I'm waiting to see what else goes on sale.

@sivanstar 8 месяцев назад

@@MatthewHartsuch great! both are really good watches 😊

@panchoskywalker 8 месяцев назад

Grey dial & swap orange with light blue! There are plenty of color combination that would work and look fun. Coo watch! Will it cost under 200 for the sale?

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

We'll just have to wait and see 😉

@dean4964 8 месяцев назад

Love it but the minute hand is too short. I really appreciate the outdoor wrist shots

@Co808 3 месяца назад

I was hesitant because of the short minute hand too but it's right on par with the watch which is homaged with this model

@gorillasinthewrist 8 месяцев назад

Glad they dropped the unicorn, decent effort

@robh.2400 8 месяцев назад

Hey John, great review! Can you tell me if the half links in this bracelet are compatible with San Martin's standard Oyster style bracelet? I haven't been able to get a good fit on my SM without 1/2 links, and haven't found any compatible ones out there.

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Sorry but no they do not seem to be :(

@robh.2400 8 месяцев назад

@@johnswatchjoint Thanks for checking. I did contact SM about 1/2 links a while ago. Maybe they’ll make them available some day.

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

I find it disappointing that even with their on the fly adjustable clasp, I still don't get a good fit with San Martin. But this case and bracelet combo are just awesome...and that's why I really rate them :)

@robh.2400 8 месяцев назад

@@johnswatchjoint yeah, I was excited for SM’s new clasp, but I just can’t get it to fit right.

@thegorn 8 месяцев назад

I am the same. With San Martin standard 4 hole clasp or on the fly clasp I cannot get a good fit with their oyster style bracelet. Half links are a must. I can only get a good fit on their jubilee and beads of rice bracelet. These ones came with their on the fly clasp. I have some half links coming in the mail soon. They are for the black Bay 58 and black Bay Pro, from Uncle Straps. I got them to see if either will fit on the San Martin oyster which is 16mm at clasp with 9mm mid links. Ask me in a week how I got on 😀

@Foodiedad17 6 месяцев назад

I really want the PX1697 bad. Ha supposedly a sale around the 8th of January I hear.

@johnswatchjoint 6 месяцев назад

Keep your eyes peeled 😉

@subisisniki 5 месяцев назад

I saw they now ship this watch with a toolless clasp.. i winder if its better

@johnswatchjoint 5 месяцев назад

Being Proxima it should be though the existing clasp is excellent anyway :)

@jerryjensen6430 8 месяцев назад

Love thick hands, PT5000 no so much. Mine looses 16 seconds a day and the movement sounds loose and very hard to hand wind. Seiko NH is great and low cost!

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Hi Jerry. The old myths about the PT5000 don't hold true when it comes to Proxima. They know what they are doing and this is running very sweetly after being properly put together with the correct lubricants ;)

@kingcold7138 8 месяцев назад

That “50” on the bezel is upside down 😅

@dunderhay9169 8 месяцев назад

A beautiful watch well presented, my only gripe is that the hands are a fraction short. I think you are unfair saying the two watches share the same case, it isn't just the bevel size that is different, the crystal on the Zodiac homage is a lot larger, becaurse the Serica homage has a wide bezel and small dial.

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Hiya. I checked with Proxima. All the same case :)

@dunderhay9169 8 месяцев назад

@@johnswatchjoint Well they fooled me 👍

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

I do get what you are saying. I love what they have done so far but I do say the same thing about San Martin as I think they could change things up a bit. I have to be consistent as my eagle-eyed subscribers would say I was playing favourites haha. I hope they do produce another watch in this case that bowls me over as much though...they have done a fantastic job with this one. Thanks again. I really appreciate your opinion as always :)

@dunderhay9169 8 месяцев назад

@@johnswatchjoint That's right you have to be neutral 😁. With such a versatile case, I think they should have a selection of dials/hands/bracelets and allow people to mix and match when they order. There would have to be some delay as the watches were made, but I think buyers would accept that, and it is better than having fifty or a hundred unsold watches from a colourway that didn't work out.

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

I was chatting last night...wait for an upload that is pending either tonight or tomorrow. Stock that did not sell now going out at pretty much cost ;)

@thegorn 8 месяцев назад

Half-links!!! Hallelujah!!!

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

It's the little things....;)

@tactofu 8 месяцев назад

I'm actually heartbroken that they didn't put a black frame around the date window. Move it to the 6 o'clock maybe? Or omit it completely? It just looks like an afterthought.

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Hmm..sorry I don't agree, it gives the dial some symmetry in my opinion :)

@marko0marko0marko01 8 месяцев назад

6.2 inch wrist here. Sadly im worried it would be too large for my wrist :/

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

This watch with its case size, how it conforms to the wrist and half links for sizing and loads of micro adjust will fit you :)

@marko0marko0marko01 8 месяцев назад

@@johnswatchjoint even tho its lug to lug is 45.5mm (or 45mm)?

@johnswatchjoint 8 месяцев назад

Yes. My wrist is 6.75 inches. This would wear down to 5.75 inches. My wrist can take 49mm lug to lug ;)

@johnmonachelli5256 8 месяцев назад

Just 5 years ago you had to spend 3k to get this quality

@ThePaulv12 7 месяцев назад

I want to buy a Proxima watch but I can't get over their non existent customer service. Everyone seems to report their service is excellent - not me. I could not get them to reply to a single Chat and eventually email despite trying repeatedly at their store (not a reseller) over 2 weeks. I gave up swearing to never give them a cent of my hard earned. If they couldn't respond before purchase then I reasoned there was no way I was going to get satisfaction post purchase should the need arise so Proxima themselves frightened me off. Perhaps I'll try again.

@johnswatchjoint 7 месяцев назад

You are are not trying to contact them the right way. Click on the item you are after and then click contact seller. Remember they work Mon to Friday.