I love these Versus episodes. If only Citizen would charge a hair more and just put a Sapphire crystal in their watch.

I've got a Baltany, and the only really sub-standard thing about it is the strap, everything else is top notch. It a beautiful piece and feels and looks like it costs a lot more than it actually does.

With the water resistance I would have said I trust Citizen way more than any aliexpress brand like Baltany. I have a Citizen chronograph without screw down pusher or crown that has 200m water resistance.

My daughter knows every time I pull up KZfaq on the tv and hears your intro she runs out of her room trying to match your “hello, and welcome”. I love it! Cheers! And keep doing what you’re doing!

Whoa whoa whoa... the screw down pushers aren't for water resistance but to keep from accidently engaging it.

In real life the Baltany is a really nice eye catcher and well balanced. The Citizen dial is a bit too busy and overcrowded although their eco drive is a big plus. I think a black Citizen strap would look nice on my Baltany. ⌚ Great review Jody. Keep up the good work 👍🇬🇧🙂

I think the Baltany is a beautiful watch!

I'm wearing the Baltany currently. The crystal is amazing! A stunning little watch which is definitely staying in my collection. If you're considering buying one,,,,do it! You won't regret it.

It has been awhile since we have seen head-to-head competition. This was a close one. Nice reviews, as per the norm. Well done, and a happy New Year to the JOMW clan!

I love that Baltany. I need one!

I’m wearing that Baltany now. My second as my daughter commandeered the first one. Awesome watch and I’ve had many comments from colleagues about my “expensive looking watch”. So far it ahsn’t missed a beat. If Baltany manage to hold up their reliability and customer service I’ll happily buy more from them. 10/10 for looks and feel.

After 3 categories the Citizen is not in the lead...? 29: 30 . Regarding water resistance - unless you test it, you have to accept 100m from both brands, no mater whether screw-down or not. Surprised - you are usually so thorough in your tests.

I have the type-B version of the Baltany and I am really impressed. It came with a leather strap which is way better than you would expect for the price. It was my first and only Ali purchase and it is one of my favorite watches now.

Don't you think the Baltany you should have done the comparo with is the tricompax Baltany S5045? I have those two and they're pretty similar, and I'd probably opt for the Baltany because it has a useful 12 hour totalizer. Unless I join the sub force anytime soon, I don't need to know if it's AM or PM. Thanks for the video, good talking points.

I'm surely tempted by the Baltany 1926 or their VC homage

I really like Citizen, but this particular one would never be on my radar, whereas the Baltany looks great with apparent great build. The scredown crown and pushers won’t necessarily mean better water resistance, after all Citizen are one of the worlds most renowned water resistant brands, but it’s a neat feature. Ever heard of the brand Militado? They are pretty much the same as Baltany with slightly less lume and come in at under $100! I think they’re worth a punt. Good review.

I have many Citizen Eco-Drive watches, one well over 20 years old and never had any issues. I do like the look of the Baltany slap an eco-drive in it and all get one.

I shortlisted the Baltany before your first video about it. When you released the video I knew I was going to get it. Ordered it in the next sale. Awesome watch! My most worn since I got it. Also my second Baltany.

I can definitely see why the score was close. In a lot of important ways the Baltany is the far better watch. But brand is very important to me when buying a watch and if I'm buying quartz then I want it solar. And fair play to Citizen for the five year warranty. The Baltany winning is the right result though.

I Have this citizen for 10 year, amazing watch

maybe you can keep the citizen band and wear it like a scalp on the baltany, Jody.

I prefer the the cleaner dial layout on the Baltany

Nice battle. I just hope Baltany will come out with a simplified version of this beautiful design stripping out the chronograph functions. :/

Gotta love these early videos. Baltany wins my vote.

Partly due to your previous video, I bought myself a Baltany with a Barton strap for Christmas. I absolutely love it, very grateful to you for your recommendation.

Owning both of these, being a bit too into field watches, I love them both, and I agree with you giving them basically a tie. They both have their strengths, but I'm currently wearing the Baltany :)

7:55 one point for THAT difference in the lume? What the hell you've been drinking down there? :) Baltany looks like an incoming train at the end of a tunnel compared to Citizen :) I must say, I'm really impressed with Baltany's offering.

I've been spoiled with sapphire crystals on my watches. I own Steeldive, Seestern, Cronos, and Proxima watches, all with sapphire, and for what I paid for them all, you wouldn't be surprised to see mineral glass.

Both are nice watches. I'd pick the Citizen because I need a date on my watches.

To me, the Baltany just looks much better. Less cluttered dial, better finishing, chrystal. Both straps are crappy. Thanks, Jody, and Happy New Year.

I have a self-branded Baltany (my last name on the dial) - same case finish and crystal - field style. 3 years daily wear, hardly a scuff or mark. NH35, 36mm. Hard to beat.

I do believe Baltany as a brand will grow alot more in the coming years, they make quality watches for a low price and dare to make daring homages of watches that don't have one yet like the 1926 oyster or 1921 american

Perfect summation of Alie watches…the big brands beat them on paper, but the one you should buy is the one without recognition…

The Citizen looks just like some far cheaper Timex chronos. Can’t get into it.

Baltany dial and style is a winner.

I have (2) Eco 37mm Citizen field day/date models in both stainless and all black PVD. Absolutely love them. Classic style, under the radar, functional, grab-n-go.

Always interesting Jody, hard to see why anyone would really want that model Citizen with it's mineral crystal and build quality, I'm still trying to find an affordable Citizen to top the Ray Mears Promaster tough, I kind of knew the Baltany would be a more desirable watch out of the comparison.

I’ve got a promaster and I love it. I’m not a fan of chronographs. But, if I were to get a chronograph I would probably buy the Baltany plus a better strap. Thank you another amazing video mate!

Without watching I already know Baltany is gonna win. I don't think the eco drive n brand power is enough to overcome the specs n value for money even with those double weighted. Maybe if citizen used the B612 movement that has a 4 bps chrono seconds hand it might have gotten a bigger advantage over the Baltany in the movement category. It's a surprise they haven't because my citizen metro chrono that uses the b612 is about the 150 mark

After watching this review, I would go with the Baltany. I don't have a chronograph and would like to pick one up sometime. Of course, the Seagull 1963 and the Dan Henry 1962 also have a lot of appeal.

I think your scores were very fair and agree, the Baltany would be my choice too for all the same reasons.

I own neither. I bought the Smiths PRS-40 chrono instead. I also quite like the Accurist Origin (the version with the uncoated steel case on a black leather strap).

I'd looked at that citizen a few times on starbuy but waited......I'm steering towards the baltany now . great comparison video.

Militado vs Baltany?

Bought the Baltany in an Ali sale. Great little watch for not a lot of money. It is a keeper.

San Martin has a 37mm version of the Baltany. I have a feeling the glass on that one is every bit is good. I'm leaning towards buying the San Martin

Seeing as I'd likely be putting either on a strap of my own making, which adds an additional 2 points to Baltany's lead with me, I wouldn't double-weigh the brand, extending the lead a bit more, and for the most part, I don't anticipate much coming up with warranty in 5 years that wouldn't come up in 2-3 years, so I'd call that line item a wash as well. Dial/hand appearance I'd probably double-weigh, since that's so large a part of the watch's overall appearance.

You should include the overall look and the x-factor which you have included in your comparison Sarb 033 vs. Tissot. Than the Balteny would go father ahad.

I think you’re scoring was pretty much right on the way. I would’ve changed a few things. I would’ve gave the warranty from the AliExpress watch less points because I would almost consider that no warranty or it would be such a hassle that you would just say screw it I’ll go buy another. I think I can stand with everything else you scored. I agree with you, but I do love a citizen and the crystal is a big deal. I have a aviator style citizen, chronograph I wore it when I was working as a jailer. The first day I wore it I slammed it in a cell door and scratch the crystal I was heartbroken. I was happy that it took a hit and survived. I was able to soften the blow with some diamond paste and a Dremel but if it were sapphire, it would’ve been non issue. I like both of the watches as far as I’m concerned, either watch will give the owner years of pleasure. I have a citizens automatic with a similar sailcloth type strap like on that one. It is a fabulous well-built strap for the money. Long time viewer I’m just happy to see citizen, making it on the channel after all these years. If we Just appeal to the brand to make them with just a little bit more character and flare. It wouldn’t take much. I think they could be a powerhouse and maybe even take a bite out of Seiko.

I continue to protest the Seiko movement as there is no user hand reset procedure 🤦‍♂

Considering the two watches came out so close, but there is a 'gulf' between the two in your own experience, suggests your scoring system is at least moderately successful in removing your bias from the process.

The Citizen dial is a bit too busy, but I love the convenience of the eco-drive. If longevity is an important concern then eco-drive may not be the best pick. I have one which hardly lasts a day even after a new rechargeable battery. Regular quartz movements are simpler and more reliable

My 12-15yr old EcoDrive got misplaced and ended up at the bottom of a drawer for untold months, maybe 18-24. Didnt respond to indoor daylight for a day but it was summer and 8 hours in direct sunlight brought in back to life. Been fine for a few years since and its not even basic... GMT too. Absolutely amazing movements.

Something wrong with the scoring then as I would pick the Baltany every time.

Baltany is doing great definitely, I am big fan of Citizen. Need to get a Baltany to test them out. Great scoring system Jody, maybe UX rating as well?

Do you have a recommendation for this spec: 1. Under $300 2. Automatic 3. Open case back 4. Stainless steel case+metal bracelet 5. Sapphire glass 6. Date complication except no gmt

I wasn’t aware but the baltany chrono is an homage to the Hamilton KHAKI FIELD chrono

I own that Baltany after watching your fabulous review on here. I almost fell over myself to buy it which is pretty rare for me. After unboxing it then finding a decent strap I was delighted, and it won’t be leaving my collection either. 👌

Love my Baltany, but also ditched the strap right off. The crystal really is outstanding!

I treat Ali sourced watches as having no warranty which limits how much I'm prepared to risk. Its just having confidence that I can rely on it if needed and I have no problem with grey warranties like Jomashop I just accept the international postage will be pricey.

(a) Tick per second quartz movements set my teeth on edge so Baltany wins there. (b) Nobody bothers with a warranty on an affordable watch after a couple of years, so Citizen scored too high on that one. (c) Baltany could be a Swiss boutique micro-brand for all most people would know. Rightly or wrongly the Citizen brand is forever attached to cheapo watches. Baltany all the way. Thanks for a great video.

Been watching your channel for years now and when I saw the Baltany, I knew I had to have it. Just got it for the Xmas sale for a great price $120 USD! It's on its way. Couldn't be happier!

Q: If one bought the Citizen and when the crystal scratched, could not it be replaced with a new Safire crystal? I would think the quartz accuracy and perpetual power of the Eco-drive would count. Low maintenance and accuracy are big with me.

I get it Jody, to be honest, I would pick the Citizen. On top of everything, it has a date wheel! It is very important if you sometimes have work at night. I like the clean finishing of the Baltany more. They are both great watches.

I've got the Citizen. I bought it probably 10 years ago when there just weren't as many microbrands out there. There also weren't many sub 40mm chronograph watches out there. I have it on a green leather strap and wear it once in a while when I pop into the city. It's cheap enough that no one gives it a second look.

I’m at the beginning of the video I’m liking both of these watches. But I’m going to make a prediction this is should be a very weighted category is it solar powered Eco drive that is huge. Dare I say, I put Eco drives a little bit ahead of my seiko solar power. I will be watching with bated breath.

Build quality score really interesting as to me the Baltany LOOKS cheap and the Citizen looks a much more expensive watch.

Interesting comparison review, Jody. The fact that the scores are so close and yet you seem to have an obvious preference for the Baltany suggests to me that your evaluation system might be a tad flawed. Perhaps some of the categories such as the Strap and Warranty should be weighted less (out of 5) and the build quality should be weighted more (out of 20)? Just a thought. Keep the great videos coming!

I have several, presently five, Echo Drive citizen watches in my collection right now. I have owned several more. I’ve only had one issue but it’s kind of a big one.. several times I’ve had an Eco drive powered watch, run down and stop having been in the watch box for an extended period of time. They then wouldn’t restart/charge back up.. this is happened on three occasions. All three of these watches were less than three years old. They just don’t seem to like running down to zero.. I guess this wouldn’t be a problem for somebody that doesn’t own as many watches as I do but I have seen other KZfaq posts about this and apparently it really is a thing!

Pretty sure water resistant is just that, regardless of screw down anything.

The first link in video description directs you to an old bernywatches domain, also for sale.

I never miss any of your videos. 🎉 Was about to get a Baltany last week but due to the holidays, delivery would take a bit longer. Then by chance I dropped by the store of an AD I know and spotted a newly released Alba with a sunburst green dial (automatic, probably 7s36). He gave me a price I couldn't refuse. Around $102US. Been wearing it for a week. But due to this video I'm getting the Baltany next month. 😅

Got the Baltany for Christmas, put it straight on a rubber strap, love it.

I've got two Baltanys: W10 and 1926 (and two more on my to get list) and two Citizen Ecodrives (including the Promaster Ecodrive Worldtime GMT you reviewed a while back Jody) in my collection and you can't go wrong with either.

The Baltany is much, much better looking in general. I also think the Citizen movement is not as good. The Ecodrive does not make up for 24 hour indicator, odd date placement and lack of the multi-tick seconds hand or the mushy pushers. As for warranty, it's quartz. It will either work for years, or arrive DOA. I've never had one fail outside of a dead battery. Mechanicals are a totally different story, and I will often buy the extended warranty if it is available. Especially on chronographs. I've had SO MANY automatic chronograph failures over the years. Most being within the first year or two of ownership.

I've got the citizen. Cannot understand ur downgrading their build quality. I think it presents itself for what it is - a rugged field watch with a chronograph.

Happy Hogmanay Jody! Bit keen moving down under just so you can start drinking 12 hours before everyone here in Scotland :-)

Woof that Baltany is slick! The Citizen is...good by comparison. Thanks once again Jody, sure appreciate your insight and reason. Maybe it's not in your brand's specific wheelhouse, but I'd love to see a head-to-head of some mid-tier pieces? Or Erebus versus another comparable micro? Either way, love sitting down to see your work in action. Thanks!

Apples and Oranges? Eco drive should be compared to another solar watch imho.

Toyota vs haval. You can have all the bells and whistles but which one stands the test of time. Easy answer.

Can't argue with the result (for watch nerds) but surprise?, not for anyone who watches your channel surely! The Baltany was in your top 5 for the year. Not sure that would be true for someone who wasn't a watch nerd. I feel you were generous to the Baltany in the warranty & brand category. Only an affordable watch nerd is ever going to have heard of the Baltany, but even the folk who don't wear a watch have heard of Citizen. Likewise, if this is your only watch or say 1 of 2, that 5 year local warranty is huge (it would cost me near $50 to post the watch to China), as is the no battery changes. Sure, You can pop the back off & stick a new one in but for most folk it's $20 every few years at the mall or a watch shop. Do love that glass on the Baltany though!

I still think the Baltany beats the citizens miles apart.

I'll just wait for the Erebus version

Great comparison on these watches. I have the citizen & it’s crazy how the price on it has gone up. I bought it 5 years ago & it was $80 back then. But I love the watch & it still gets a lot of wrist time. The only thing I don’t like about it is the very short space in the lugs. The lug holes are too close to the watch case I had to get curved spring bars to easily fit a nato strap. I don’t have the Baltanty watch, but I did pick up a San Martin chronograph which looks very similar. It would be nice to see a comparison between the San Martin & Baltany.

Not a fan of either chronographs or quartz but one clear winner for me. Baltany will let you down when the battery fails but meanwhile it doesn't shout "chronograph" at you, with that dial and crystal it will be a pleasure to look at. The Citizen dial is a mess but as the crystal gets scratched that will be less noticeable, the only thing it's got going for it is the solar power.

I'm a bit of a Citizen fan, but this watch looks a bit shabby. I agreev100% that the Baltany is the better option.

the citizen looks like my timex expedition work watch, its a chronograph dial layout is the same except the timex doesn't cloud the dial with a 4 behind the date it just has the date and the little yellow line

I own a previous version of the Citizen (slight dial difference) and I can't argue with Jody's points, especially having never owned the Baltany. I would add, though, that the Citizen is *by far* the most accurate watch I own, sometimes +/- 2 secs in 8 months. And Eco drive. Also, the band is very substantial and sturdy, although too bulky for my taste.

Great head to head, I take a little issue with the idea that brand carries double weighting, when scoring components separately, plenty of long standing brands, but if a watch is inferior on many individual components, you’re just paying for badge. I know it’s what happens, it just doesn’t seem right.

If the baltany had better hand lume, I'd probably one-in-one-out for my pagani moonwatch, which I've never really loved. Clear crystal is so important! Jody, do a crystal comparison episode! Love to see your top 10! I got the turquoise Oceanus after seeing your review!

how about any islander against similarly designed big brand name.

Thanks for another fun Versus video as they're always insightful. Wishing you continued success and a blessed 2024!!!

Great video very well judged. But yep i prefer the lesser known Baltany. Ill get one at some point 😉

I picked this Citizen on eBay for about 50 quid with a dead battery and a misaligned Chrono hand. After a bit of faff to bring it back to life I’m very happy with it. Great watch; very lightweight and works great on an Olive Marine Nationale with a Red stripe. I’m mostly a Dive or Field watch kind of person, and this is my first punt at any kind of chronograph. I couldn’t bring myself to part with £249 no way…the Citizen can’t be worth that surely…

I'm a huge Citizen fan, but to me, that Baltany wins without a doubt. I'm even gonna get a Baltany, because I've read and heard a lot of good things about their watches and they have some gorgeous homages.

Had to send the Baltany back due to the dial being a few degrees to the left. I just can’t be bothered with the hassle of sending something back to China again so I will be going for the Citizen for ease.

I have the Baltany badged as a San Martin

It does not surprise me that the Baltany beat the Citizen. Big brands, in my opinion, are generally high volume mfgs and don't take the effort to offer top quality except among their high end lines. You mentioned putting the Baltany on a Barton strap. The Hemsut strap brand, based on my first purchase from Amazon, seems to offer identical design and quality as Barton strap for almost 20% less. Wouldn't surprise me that Hemsut and Barton straps are manufactured in the same factory.

Love this type of comparison, and would love to see more. I wonder where would your rating put my Seiko SNN241, compared to these two, or perhaps others?

I'm not a fan of Chronograph... part of the reason it's of NO use to me what so ever. Another reason is the busy dial... The Baltany is much cleaner, and with the screw down crown/pushers... it would be my pick.