This is a KronoReview of the Megir M3406 quartz chronograph. This is my third review of a budget-minded Chinese watch. This watch is in my current EDC rotation of between 5-7 timepieces. The Megir M3406 is available in three color options: 1) Black SS Case/Black Dial/Black & Silver SS Bracelet 2) SS Case/White Dial/Khaki Leather Strap. 3) Black SS Case/Black Dial/Dark Brown Leather Strap (the version I tested). The watch was supplied by GearBest. (Note: GearBest lists this as M/N 3778, which is incorrect).

^GearBest Pics ^

GearBest website pics are pretty nice. The Megir M3406 is a cushion shape, Panerai (High-end, Italian Watchmaker) style homage watch. Normal price is in the $30 range, and GearBest routinely has this and other Megir watches on sale.

Here is the GB website, the Megir website, and Sunon’s website (movement mfr.):

http://goo.gl/nacxck (On sale now for $22.77)
MEGIR Watch official website (Model M3406 is not on their site).
Sunon International Group Limited

I mentioned this in my previous Megir M2002 review, but it bears repeating. Accurate information is difficult to come by on the Megir company/brand. Internet website claims place them in London, while reality seems to place them in Guandong, China. There are also claims that they are a supplier for Citizen and Fossil watches. Current internet lore also speaks of lawsuits from Guess for claiming the same thing. Nevertheless, the internet marketplace seems to be covered up w/Megir watches. There is also talk of some of their watches (Megir 2713?) with higher-end Sea-Gull (Automatic 2525) movements, which might be bargains if found for low prices. Their website only has a limited number of their watches listed there. It could be that there are many manufacturers, as seems to be the case with many of the mushroom brands…as well as Swiss knockoffs.

Here is my first glance of the actual watch, straight out of the package:

The watch inside was bagged, cellophane-wrapped around the case/crystal, and also included a Megir tag.

The Megir M3406 came in a padded envelope sans box, wrapped securely and well protected.

I have to start out saying this is one nice looking watch! I had my doubts about what it would look like, but it looks just as good as the nice pictures on the GB website. I feel the size of the watch is perfect for a cushion shape/style…not too big…and not too small. The crown protector does protrude a bit at the 3 O’clock side of the watch, but I never noticed it unless I bent my wrist back in an extreme position. I do prefer that this style watch have the stem/pushers at the 9 O’clock position, thereby eliminating this potential dis-comfort. However, I must say that discomfort was mostly a non-issue. The strap itself is attractive, but probably not for everyone. It is a dark-brown, nubuck leather. IMHO, it matches the watch nicely. There are two loops/strap keepers…one static and one loose. If you have a very large wrist, you might have to get a larger strap. The second strap keeper barely covers the end of the strap on my medium-sized wrist. The pin/buckle is stainless steel and coated in a brushed satin-black with the Megir logo in an off-white that matches the dial numbers.

The watch has a chronograph function, 24 hr. function, so the subdials/pushers do work, although they are somewhat stiff. Sub-dials are located at 3 O’clock (24 hr clock), 6 O’clock (Chrono-seconds) and 9 O’clock (Chrono-minutes). I noticed that the minute dial sweeps instead of ticks when in operation. The watch was zeroed when it arrived, and it has no fly-back operation.

The dial is satin-black and has large, easy to see, off-white, Arabic numeral hour-markers, with larger numerals at 12, 3, 6 and 9. They look as though they are ‘cut-out’ (like a stencil) of the dial, which give it a nice effect. The blue-gray hour and minute hands are sword-shaped with center lume. The minute hand is also blue-gray and thin, with a sword shape on the back-end. The date window is at the 4:30 position, and somewhat difficlult to see with a bit of shadow and ever-so-slightly off-center. ‘MEGIR CHRONOGRAPH’ appears directly under the 12.

The case is an attractive gloss-black coating over some type of metal (Stainless Steel is what Megir claims). I don’t know how it will hold up over time. The lugs extend in a curved fashion towards the strap. However, like the M2002 I previously reviewed, there is not enough curvature to them to make the case wrap comfortably around the top portion of the wrist. To be fair, neither is it on the Panerai that this watch mimics. The case-back is a SS pop-off/press-fit style, and has an hourglass circle design. Removal reveals a Chinese Sunon PE902 Chrono movement with plastic gear and a Sony battery.

PROS:
Panerai Luminor style and looks.
Attractive, gloss black case and black dial.
Protected crown with working latch.
Working sub-dials (Chrono).
24 hr sub-dial.
Watch has a nice, solid, feel to it.
Date Window.
Decent, budget-minded nu-buck leather strap.
Domed glass crystal.
Lume on 5 watch hands.

CONS:
Strap could be longer.
Unproven Sunon movement.
Limited lume.
Not enough curvature of the lugs.
Date window difficult to see.

DIMENSIONS:
Width: 51.2mm
Case Diameter: 43.75mm
Lug to lug: 52.7mm
Strap width: 24mm
Crystal: 37mm
Height (top of crystal to caseback): 16.5mm
OAL: 25cm
Weight: 92gms

RATING:
Cost: 4
Looks: 4
Durability: 3
Function: 4
Comfort: 3
Average: 3.6/5

In conclusion, the Megir M3046 is a very attractive cushion-shaped watch that gets you the Panerai look at a miniscule fraction of the cost. It looks as good as the pics. The concerns are the longevity of the movement as well as the coating. Overall, a good value for the cost.

Thanks,
krono

First impressions:
Shipped from: NexTool for review purpose

But…which company is NexTool?
This is the same company called NexTorch, a producer of flashlights and accessories, that’s quickly increasling their distribution in over 100 countries and they continue to expand.
It is one of the latest EDC tool of the KO FUN SERIES linked here –-> http://goo.gl/bMS0XQ

some basic information:
Steel：3Cr13
Coating：Satin finish
Functions：Bottle opener,Screwdrivers,Wrenches,Rope cutter
Dimensions：82mmX36mmX3mm
Weight：28g

Construction quality:
It seems to be brilliantly built and the kind of steel used is a Chinese Stainless steel that is similar in quality to 420J2 (AUS 4) stainless steel.
The following formula is a break down in the steel: Around 13% chromium and 3% carbon. It has a HRC of 52-55 making it relatively soft.

PROS:
- IMHO the best looking tool of the KO FUN SERIES
- useful but still with nice and creative design

CONS:
- screwdriver maybe isn’t in the best position

Final thoughts and why you should buy it:
There are lots of similar EDC tools in the market, but it’s difficult to find some well designed item and for what i’ve seen until now most of them suffer from low quality steel used or FLUCTUATING BATCH QUALITY….. so every time you buy theb it’s like to play a lottery!
NexTool price is certainly a little higher compared to other not branded items/competitors, but this is what you have to pay to receive a great product from a reliable company, which is designing innovative products.

Thanks for reading…..

When NEXTORCH contacted me about reviewing their new lantern UL360 (review) they also asked me if I wanted to take a look at a tool for opening packages – TaoTool KT5509 by their brand NexTool. I figured why not, it’s a tool I’ll actually use.

I am not a “professional unboxer” and don’t open packages all day, every day, so having a specialty tool for this purpose never was a must, but TaoTool marketing material was spot on and reminded me of more than a few situations where I struggled with scissors and different knives.

Specs provided by the manufacturer:

Quote:

Material: Sandvik 12C27
Coating: Teflon®
Open Length: 110.6mm
Closed length: 68mm
Weight: 32g

TaoTool is packaged in a clear plastic box with the tool itself presented in the middle.

There are no accessories in the box, just the tool itself. TaoTool is key shaped, meant to go on your keychain.

The blade is made of Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel and coated with non-stick Teflon coating to repel glue from packaging. It locks tight with lockback mechanism.

To close it, latch must be pressed:

TaoTool is 5.4mm thick.

At 68mm, TaoTool is a bit longer than a regular key, about the length of a small AAA keychain light, like a Fenix E05.

Both hook and blade parts of the TaoTool came sharp enough to cut a padded envelope and a cardboard box, and it was breeze. I especially liked opening a box closed with sticky tape, just “hook it in” and drag.

Teflon coating seems to work, I haven’t noticed any gunk accumulating on the blade yet.

Overall, it works as advertised and does what it’s supposed to pretty well. TaoTool KT5509 is a handy little tool to have and it will be used for all my package opening requirements from now on.

TaoTool KT5509 was provided by NEXTORCH for review.
Thank you for reading.

First impressions:
Shipped from: NexTool for review purpose

But…which company is NexTool?
This is the same company called NexTorch, a producer of flashlights and accessories, that’s quickly increasling their distribution in over 100 countries and they continue to expand.

It’s a smart box opener that’s similar but different compared to a classic EDC keychain KNIFE.
NexTool (with this product and others) is winner of the 2016 Asian Products Award at the ISPO MUNICH, that’s the world’s largest trade fair for sporting goods and sportswear.

This product should be your best friend when you are going to open a received box, because it’s designed to be “SAFE” with internal objects and the blade is supposed to be very sharpened to let you impress the least force while you’re attempting to open the box.

Product link http://goo.gl/9ae9Bm

some basic information:
Material：Sandvik 12C27
Coating：Teflon®
Open Length:110.6mm
Closed length:68mm
Weight:32g

Construction quality:
The material used to forge this knife comes from Sandvik (Sweden,founded 1862), that’s a high-technology engineering group in tools and tooling systems for metal cutting, mining, construction equipment, products in stainless steel and alloys.

I really like how NexTool designed this object, and putting TEFLON at the 2 sides of the blade is a great idea to keep it clean.
It can cut thicker package without worrying damaging the products inside.
It can be used as a rope cutter and folding knife when you need any support.
The key-sized multi-tool that easily attaches to an existing key ring, fits great in a pocket and easy to keep anywhere.

Sandvik 12C27 steel (taken from sandvik site)

It is our main knife steel for hand-held knives, high-end ice skate blades and ice drills. Continuous improvement over a period of 45 years has evolved Sandvik 12C27 into the high performing steel grade it is today.
The composition is tighter, the purity level is much higher and the fine carbide microstructure of today is far from how Sandvik 12C27 knife steel of the sixties looked. With a hardness range of 54-61 HRC, high toughness, scary sharpness and good corrosion resistance, Sandvik 12C27 is the recommended grade for hunting knives, pocket knives, camping knives, high-end chef’s knives and tactical knives.

PROS:
- non-stick Teflon coating, keep the blade clean after cutting the tapes
- open any package fast as a Zipper
- cut thicker package without worrying damaging the products inside

CONS:
- none

Final thoughts and why you should buy it:
When you start to use this magic knife with every package you receive, you can feel the difference with the “old slyle” method using a classic cutter or the nearest scissors you generally find at home, that are aready (you can confirm it) sticky glue at the sides of blames …like all mine!!!

Thanks for reading…..

Ok now I’ll review something nicer, like this fixed blade classic from Spyderco. The temperance 2 is a big fixed blade that weighs less than most cheapie fixed blades I’ve reviewed. Anyway, check it out. This knife was loaned to me for review, by a friend.

Hey BLF. Got another review of an expensive knife, the Spyderco and Lion Steel collaboration the Lil Lion Spy. This one is mine, so I abuse it a bit more than one should, considering the price point. I bought this, because I was intrigued by the Ganzo G722 I reviewed last year, and maybe because I’m not good with money. Anyway, hope you like it!

Electronic load 60W



Official specifications:

• Board size: 100mm x 70mm x 57mm (fan prominent board about 12mm)
  
• Positioning hole location: 60mm x 88mm , hole diameter is 3.2mm 5mm pedestal installation
  
• Working Power requirements: DC12V
  
• Operating mode: Single-mode constant current (CC)
  
• Discharge current: 0.20-9.99A stepper 0.1A or 0.01A
  
• Discharge current maximum error: 0.7% -0.01A
  
• Maximum capacity test error: 0.5A 2.5%, 2A 1.5%, 5A and above 1.2%
  
• Offline (termination) Voltage Range: 1.0-25.0V stepping 1V or 0.1V
  
• Discharge voltage: 1.00-30.00V
  
• Maximum voltage measurement error: 1% + – 0.02V
  
• Maximum power: 60W super power automatically limit the maximum current
  
• (for example, up to 60W when it can start 9.99A 6V and 20V maximum can only be opened at 3.00A)
  
• Highest battery test statistic: 999.9Ah or 9999Wh, reaches the value stop testing (in value by a first stop condition)
  
• Fan control: intelligent fan control (fan can automatically according to the heat sink temperature infinitely variable)
  

• Will remember settings after a power cycle.
  
• Current consumption from 12V when idle is 66mA
  
• Current consumption from 12V when operating is up to 300mA
  
• Load current draw when off at 30 volt is 0.37mA
  
• Load current draw when off at 10 volt is 0.12mA
  
• At 30V and 2.00A the current was stable within 0.15%
  
• At 6V and 9.99A the current was stable within 0.2%
  
• Readout is within specifications.
  
• 4 terminal reading can handle at least 6 volt compensation.
  

This is my 5th review of a budget-minded Chinese watch, the Guanqin 2016 GJ16022 Quartz Chronograph. This watch is in my current EDC rotation.

The Guanqin GJ16022 is available in 3 color options:

1) Black case/Black dial/Black strap/Silver hands (the version I am reviewing).
2) Gold case/Black dial/Black strap/Gold hands.
3) Black case/Red dial/Black strap/Black hands.

The watch was supplied by TomTop.

^ TomTop Pics. ^

Here are TomTop’s website and Sunon’s (movement) website. I was unable to find a manufacturer website for Guanqin, which is somewhat common for mushroom brands:

http://www.tomtop.com/guanqin-2016-fashion-men-s-luxury-top-brand-big-di... (TomTop – Dealer’s watch listing).
http://sunonwatch.com/EN/products_category.asp?id=1 (Movement Mfr./PE90 variant site).

Before we get to the review, here are the specs as they appear, verbatim, from TomTop’s website. I include the opener, where they explore the spiritual/ethereal side of watch ownership…heheh:

The design concept of GUANQIN-GQ brand watch advocates natural color, nature, delicacy and style of individuality. It takes humanistic spirit as the main body of the design guiding ideology, advocating modern dress sense and the combination of spiritual experience. Making our watches combine comfort, taste and thoughtfulness. Don’t hesitate any longer! That’s the watch you want.

Features:
Automatic quartz for accurate time keeping.
Creative dial and slim simple.
Perfect gift for men, Christmas gifts and gifts for the New Year.
Beautiful and special design, just for you.
Do not worry about water, this wristwatch is daily life 50m water resistant (but not for showering, swimming and diving).

Specifications:
Brand: GUANQIN
Item Type: Wristwatch
Style: Fashion & Business & Luminous
Gender: Male
Clasp Type: Buckle
Color: Black+Red / Full Black / Gold+Black (Optional)
Color of Band: Black
Band Material: Leather
Dial Display: Analog
Dial Shape: Round
Surface Material: Sapphire Crystal Glass
Watchcase Material: Stainless Steel
Movement Type: Quartz
Feature: Date, Heat-resistant, High Hardness, Luminous, Second Plate, Stopwatch
Water-resistant Level: Daily Life 50m Water Resistant
Dial Diameter: 41.7mm / 1.6in
Dial Thickness: 11.6mm / 0.5in
Unfolded Length: Approx. 202mm / 7.9in
Watchband Width: 19mm / 0.7in
Item Weight: Approx. 52g / 1.8oz
Package Size: Approx. 10.1 * 7.1 * 7.7cm / 4.0 * 2.8 * 3.0in
Package Weight: Approx. 156.4g / 5.5oz

Package List:
1 * Man Watch
1 * Original Watch Box

KronoReview:

TomTop (Dealer) website pictures portray a pretty attractive, dress style watch. The Guanqin is a classic, round shape chronograph. TomTop’s current price is $35.25, which seems to be in the average price range found on the internet.

^ Watch fresh out of packaging ^

The boxed watch was shipped in a standard, white, bubble type envelope, with styrofoam-like wrapping around it. It was very securely packaged. As you can see from the pic, the box suffered no damage from shipping. The nice, blue, cardboard retail box has a white slip-on sleeve.

^ Watch in Blue Retail Box ^

The Guanqin watch inside had your standard see-through protector on the crystal and case-back.

Unboxing the watch further reveals an ‘International Guarantee’ card, Chinese/English User’s Manual, a Retail tag, and a soft, pink micro-fiber polishing cloth.

Like many of the watches I have previously reviewed, this watch is very attractive in person. The size of the watch feels right for it’s dressy style. The strap has a black, embossed top with an interesting, alternating pattern of 3 bars and 7 round dots. From a distance, it is reminiscent of a carbon-fiber weave. The underside is tan, and supposedly leather, but that looks questionable. There are two loops/strap keepers…one static and one loose. The strap is a good length. My wrist is 7-5/8”, and there is plenty of adjustment, either way. The pin/buckle is some sort of steel and coated with a gloss-black coating that matches the case.

The 2 sub-dials and 2 pushers at the 2 and 4 O’clock position are functional. The top pusher starts and stops the chronograph function (stopwatch), and the bottom pusher resets it. There is no fly-back function. Sub-dials are located at 12 O’clock (split seconds), and 6 O’clock (seconds). The top sub-dial has number marks on their angled ‘bezels’ at 60, 15 and 45. The bottom has 15, 30 and 45. They both have hash-marks in between those numbers. The sub-dials overlap slightly at the center of the watch-face, hence no number mark on the top sub-dial at 30, nor the bottom for 0. The small, circular date window is at the 3 O’clock position.

The black dial is huge and heavily textured. It is very attractive and resembles a swirling honeycomb. Note that the overall watch-size isn’t that huge. That is due to the small bezel thickness, only about 2mm from crystal to the edge of the case. It gives the watch a sizable dial, without the penalty of a massive, overbearing case-size. The watch sits low enough and fits easily under a dress-shirt cuff. The hour markers are simple lines, very small, and can be difficult to see. They look as though they would have lume on them, but unfortunately, that is not the case. There are no hr. markers at 12, 3, 6 and 9 because of the two large sub-dials, logo and date window. The silver hour and minute hands are simple, a squared-off, stick-shape with center lume, but very weak. The minute hand is also silver, very thin, but with a flash of color, a red arrow pointer that grabs your attention. The date window is at 3 O’Clock. The brand name Guanqin, with wings logo beneath, appears at the 9 O’clock position. The dial is covered by a flat crystal. Specs say it is Sapphire, but I don’t think that it is. It sounds like acrylic. It is also very reflective, which can be hard to see the dial at certain angles.

The case is supposedly Stainless Steel, and finished with an attractive, gloss-black coating. The unobtrusive lugs extend at a sharp angle, and reach slightly below the case-back. I appreciate this feature as it makes it more comfortable for the top of the wrist. I have mentioned this lack of extension on several watches I previously reviewed, and I can’t understand why more manufacturers don’t do this! Kudos to Guanqin for this feature.

^ Open-caseback movement photos ^

^ Sunon’s pic of the PE90 (PE903 variant). Could it be this variant, without the 24 hr function? ^

The case-back is SS with a pop-off design. Inside is a Chinese made Sunon PE90 (PE903 variant) quartz, no jewel movement. The construction of the movement looks mostly metal, but it does contain a plastic gear which is visible at the center. The movement actually hacks when stem is pulled out, which was a surprise. Many of the watches I have recently reviewed are using this movement. The Sunon PE90 is mostly metal, but appears to have at least one plastic gear inside. This makes me doubt it’s longevity. Someone with greater knowledge of Sunon’s movements, please feel free to chime in!

The watch looks nice on the wrist. I even wore it Friday for an interview I had. As I said previously, it fit nicely under my dress-shirt, and looked pretty nice with my black blazer. I should have taken a pic with it. Maybe I can dress up again and take a pic later.

PROS:
Dress style watch that looks nice, beyond it’s cost.
Large, textured dial is intricate, with high-end flare.
Chronograph with working sub-dials.
Movement actually hacks.
Attractive, gloss black case and buckle..
Working sub-dials (Seconds/Split seconds).
Date function.
Attractive, comfortable strap.
Lume on hour and minute hand.
3 color combos to choose from.
Box w/warranty card, instructions, tag and polishing cloth.
Light weight, relatively low-profile design.

CONS:
Acrylic crystal (Specs say it is Sapphire).
Crystal is very reflective and ‘ringy’ (reflections off off sub-dials), hard to read at certain angles.
Very limited lume on hands, and no lume on hour-markers.
Chinese Sunon PE90 movement w/plastic gear.
Pop-off case-back.
Chinese battery.
Price is a bit high considering the lower-end movement and probable acrylic crystal.

MY MEASUREMENTS/DIMENSIONS:
Width: 44.2mm (including crown)
Case Diameter: 41.5mm
Lug to lug: 43mm
Strap width: 20mm
Crystal: 37.5mm
Height (top of crystal to caseback): 11.25mm
OAL: 248mm
Weight: 50gms

RATING:
Cost: 3
Looks: 3.5
Durability: 3
Function: 4
Comfort: 4
Average: 3.5/5

In conclusion, the Guanqin 2016 GJ16022 is a very attractive watch, but with a low-end movement. The watch wears well, and looks much more expensive that it costs. Overall, considering the movement and looks, this watch balances out overall to be an okay watch.

Thanks,
krono

What’s up BLF. I’ve been making videos for knives and lights for a while now, but this one is for a knife I’ve owned for years. The Spyderco Endura 4 FRN Flat Ground. I love this knife and it’s been a great all purpose blade that I’ve taken everywhere with me. Hiking, camping, or just my work knife- it’s been reliable and I’ve never had a single problem with it. Just recently I had to tighten the pocket clip after years of carry, so maybe that’s a thing I can say? Anyway… Hope you like the video. This is a tried and true blade, that has yet to be replaced as my perfect EDC. Also watch out for some NSFW language.

Hey there BLF. Here’s a review for the brand new Kershaw showtime. I’ll say, it’s my first Kershaw and it’s a nice blade. I prefer larger knives personally, like well… you know. But it’s a cool knife for people don’t like super big blades.

Anyway, I hope you like my first Kershaw review. This was provided by the folks at Kershaw for review.

Hey Budget Light Forum. I’ve been cranking out some knife reviews lately… and this time I picked up an old favorite. The Benchmade 551. I reviewed a gateway Ganzo G739 knife a while back, so I decided to buy the original off Amazon. As expected the 154cm bladed Benchmade steel holds an edge longer than the 440c Ganzo stuff… but the handle is a little uncomfortable if you’re doin some wood skinning. Anyway, watch me get a blister in my latest knife review.

Hey BLF, here is my last knife review for a few weeks. I had to get a few out of the way because I have some other priorities- like flashlight reviews… oh and life. This one is for the Kershaw Link Serrated. Most reviews are for the Straight Edge… so I guess that’s different. It’s short, to the point, and goes over all the basics. Plus there’s jokes and what not. Kershaw provided this blade for review. Also I realized my hands are looking pretty beat up. I apologize- but thanks everyone for watching my videos.

Here is a link to the blade:

https://kershaw.kaiusaltd.com/knives/knife/link-serrated

This is my 6th review of a budget-minded Chinese watch, the Shenhua 9584 Automatic. This watch is in my current EDC rotation of between 2-3 timepieces. The Shenhua 9584 is available in only one version: SS/Silver case and Bezel/No Dial/Black strap. Shenhua does have another, very similar watch, the 9541 automatic, with the same linear movement. It is a different color combination and somewhat different in design, so I will review that one later. This watch was supplied by TomTop .

^ TomTop Pics ^

Here is TomTop’s website, the TomTop Shenhua 9584 product page, and the expired Chinese Patent on the movement:

http://www.tomtop.com/?aid=699 (TomTop’s Website)
http://bit.ly/1VgqRWl (TomTop’s watch listing)
http://ipsearch.ipd.gov.hk/design/pdf/291460.pdf?LANG=en (PDF of Movement Originally Registered by PTS Resources App. No. 0900977.0, but they no longer hold this registration)

Lets take a look at the TomTop product listing information before I start:

Comparing to other mechanical wristwatch, this one is more simple with its see-through watch dial and case-back. Silver watchcase and internal parts, surely this wristwatch would made you think back to the old industrial age the first sight you see it. If you want something to wear on your naked wrist that looks good and tells you the time, this might be a good choice.

Features:
It is precise in calibration and durable for daily wear.
Neat looking watch, really a beautiful and delicate simply style one.
This watch is really an attractive one, you would like it for you can watch the functions inside.
Instead of battery operated, this watch is a self-winding mechanical one, which is more environmental friendly.
Do not worry about water, this wristwatch is daily life water resistant (but not for showering, swimming and diving).

Specifications:
Brand: SHENHUA
Item Type: Wristwatch
Style: Fashion & Casual
Gender: Unisex
Close Type: Pin buckle
Color: Black
Dial Display: Analog
Dial Shape: Round
Dial Material: Alloy
Band Material: Genuine leather
Surface Material: Glass
Watchcase Material: Alloy
Movement Type: Self-winding
Water-resistant Level: Daily life water-resistant
Dial Size: Approx. 4cm / 1.57in
Dial Thickness: Approx. 1.2cm / 0.47in
Unfolded Length: Approx. 25.6cm / 10.08in
Watchband Width: Approx. 2cm / 0.79in
Item Weight: Approx. 75g / 2.65oz
Package Weight: Approx. 76g / 2.68oz

Package List:
1 * Watch

KronoReview:

When I first laid eyes on this watch online, I was very intrigued. The Shenhua 9584, with it’s bridge, or linear movement, is undoubtedly a real eye-catcher. You can’t help but be drawn to the internal workings of the watch, which span across the inside at a 30 degree angle, from 3 O’clock to 8 O’clock. The rectangular movement almost seems to float inside. So, does the watch live up to the looks? We’ll find out.

Here is how the watch was packaged. The 9584 came in a padded/bubble-wrap envelope sans box, wrapped fairly securely and decently protected, and also with another watch (Megir).

2 watches shipped together (Megir already reviewed on left, Shengua 9584 on right).

The Shenhua inside was cellophane-wrapped around the case/crystal and included only a Shenhua tag.

The watch looks pretty decent in person. The black, fake leather strap is pretty bad looking and stiff, but at least somewhat comfortable. It has contrasting white stitches, one loose strap keeper, and one fixed. The strap was plenty long and fit my 7-5/8” wrist just fine. The pin/buckle is polished stainless steel, with no logo present.

This is a very simple watch, with simple functions. The movement, however, looks so original and complicated, that the watch is almost a dichotomy…simple in function, yet seemingly complicated in it’s internal structure. The angle of the linear movement, between the 3 O’clock and 8 O’clock positions, puts the crown on the upper right of the case. This does increase the comfort of the watch when the wrist is bent, as in a typing position.

The simple is just hour and minute functionality. That’ it…no seconds, sub-dials, pushers, day, date window, month…no bells and whistles…none of those things. Oh yeah…and no dial….and no brand/manufacturer’s markings on the front, whatsoever. The only markings on the front are the angled, inner bezel (hard to see, minute numbers in increments of 5), and the Roman hour-markers that are engraved and blackened on the bezel. The bezel is a bit different. It is not polished like the rest of the SS case. Rather, it is brushed in concentric circles, which gives it a more industrial look. I think that watch would look better with a polished bezel instead.

As stated before, the case is Stainless Steel. The lugs arch toward the strap, and attach via screws, not spring-bars. There should be more curvature to the lugs to make the case wrap more comfortably around the top portion of the wrist. The see-through case-back screws off. The window appears to be acrylic, and has “SHENHUA 9584”, “STAINLESS STEEL BACK WATER RESISTANT” and also a shapely SH logo printed on it. The printing and logo placement is not ideal, and is distracting when viewing the movement. It would have been much better to engrave the brand/model info on the bezel of the case-back instead.

Lets talk about looks. I have many watches (mostly inexpensive), and the 9584, by far, has received the most attention of any of them. The movement is really the star of the show. It is just really cool to watch, and the glint of the brass gear, and possibly the bling on the rotor, definitely gets attention. However, upon closer examination, the movement is literally very rough around the edges. In addition, the bling on the rotor is a bit much. Nevertheless, my wife seemed to like it. She likes the Michael Kors, blingy type watches, so this watch might actually appeal to women moreso than men. The rotor also tends to ‘hang-up’ when the watch is auto-winding. The spring-tension must be holding it in place as you are trying to rotate the watch and see the mechanism. A minor annoyance, really. The rotor is rather noisy when spinning rapidly.

^ Catalog pictures of LZ0801Z/LZ0802Z linear movement. ^

Looks pretty nice on the wrist. Definitely original!

PROS:
Attention getter…fun to watch!
Very unique, linear (bridge) type automatic movement
Screw-down, ball-shaped crown w/grippy knurling.
Simple functionality.
Lume on hands.
Sufficient strap length.
No dial or logos on front to block view.
SS case-back.
See-through front and back.
Screw-down case-back.

CONS:
Fake leather band.
Bling on rotor.
Brushed bezel.
Acrylic crystals front and rear.
Lack of functions.
Insufficient lume on hands.
Inner bezel w/minute marks is angled too sharply and difficult to see.
Case-back crystal has lettering blocking rear-view. It would have been better to identify watch with engraving around case-back bezel.
Noisy rotor.
Silver hands with white center do not contrast well with movement.
Upon close inspection, machining on movement is quite rough.
No hand-winding.
Spring tension keeps rotor from freely rotating.
No box.

DIMENSIONS:
Width: 47mm (Crown to case, remember crown is at 3 O’clock).
Case Diameter: 43.75mm
Lug to lug: 49.6mm
Strap width: 22mm
Crystal: 35mm
Height (top of crystal to caseback): 13mm
OAL: 26cm
Weight: 60gms

RATING:
Cost: 4
Looks: 4
Durability: 3
Functionality: 2.5
Comfort: 3.5
Average: 3.4/5

In conclusion, the Shenhua 9584 is a very interesting watch with a eye-catcher of a movement. The watch received an incredible amount of attention and praise. It is simple in function, but I think that is part of the appeal of the watch. The main draw is the unique and interesting movement…and more functionality would simply ‘block the view’. The durability of the movement is in question, especially in view of it’s rough edges. However, if you are looking for a conversation piece, or inexpensive watch that gets attention, you should consider the Shenhua 9584.

Thanks,
krono

Sup everybody? I’m new here and wanted to share some of my reviews with other Ganzo fans.

G745
https://youtu.be/Lr326KpfXNs

G739
https://youtu.be/bYhars5xOqI

G738
https://youtu.be/vpw6WcDU1aA

G741 – my latest one
https://youtu.be/DSLSa0qyqjs

Hey there BLF. Here’s another budget blade review for you- the Enlan EL-10. It’s a larger, sorta heavy, overbuilt folder from Enlan that has a cool looking G10 handle, and uses a liner lock. Anyway, just about everything you need to know is in the video review, so check it out. Feel free to hit me up with any questions. This knife was provided by Gear Best for review, and you can buy it through a link they provided here.

Hey there BLF, here’s another knife review about a Ganzo. This time it’s the nice carbon fiber edition of the cool G7392 model. I reviewed the other version of it a while back, and it was a nice blade too. They weigh about the same, but the handle of this one slides in the pocket a bit nicer. Anyway, I put it through it’s paces by using it a lot in the video. This one was provided by Gear Best for review. It’s about $15 right now, and they gave me “this link”: http://goo.gl/khMRjb if you’d like to by it. It’s not an affiliate link by me… because I ain’t one. Oh yeah, there’s a bit of NSFW language in it. So if you don’t like that kind of humor- this is your warning.

I was in the mood to review something a little different than a flashlight or a watch, so here you have it…the KronoReview of the L0905 Solar Wireless Outdoor Security Light. This item was provided free by TomTop for review.

TomTop Regular price: $18.13. Get it here.

Description/Features/Specifications etc. (From TomTop product page):

High quality LED landscape spotlight with human motion sensor and light sensor, it adopts human infrared induction technology. Perfect lighting products for places such as patios, garage, balcony, gardens, yard etc.

Features:
Adopting human motion infrared technology, energy-saving and environmentally friendly.
Light sensor: the lamp will switch on automatically in a dark condition.
Easy to install by using a set of screws, no wires and technicians required.
Ideal for areas where conventional electricity supply is not available.
It can be used in a wide range of places such as patios, garage, balcony, gardens, yard etc.

Specifications:
Solar panel: Amorphous silicon
LED quantity: 14 LEDs
Material: ABS
Battery: 1 * 3.2V 400mAh lithium battery (included)
Sensor type: Human infrared induction & light sensor
Motion detect: 3-7 meters
Detect angle: 120 degree
Senor delay: 15 seconds
Hanging Distance: 1.8-2.5 meters
IP rating: IP44
Luminous flux: 150LM
Working time: 8-10 hours
Charging time: 4-6 hours
Item color: Black
Color temperature: White (6000-6500K)
Solar panel Size: 14.5 * 11.5cm / 5.7 * 4.5in (L * W)
Item weight: 390g / 13.8oz
Package size: 22.5 * 21.0 * 10.0cm / 8.9 * 8.3 * 3.9in (L * W * H)
Package weight: 520g / 18.3oz

Package list:
1 * Solar PIR Spotlight
1 * User Manual (English)
1 * Installation Kit

KRONOREVIEW:

The Solar charged L0905W security light has two clusters of LEDs, with 7 LEDs per can. It also comes with a quick-release mount/hardware, solar panel and internal Lithium-Polymer battery. It is shipped with ample protection in a box with form-fitting Styrofoam. The light is activated easily with an infrared motion sensor. The light stays on for approximately 30 seconds, and then slowly ramps down/fades to off.

PROS:

Inexpensive.
Solar-Charged, battery powered…requires no other electrical source.
Li-Po 3.7v 14500 battery.
2 separate, aimable beams.
Easy to mount (5-10 minutes) with two screws.
Quick connect/disconnect mounting plate.
Highly resembles a security camera.
Motion activated. This light activates easily when there is movement within about ~20 ft. or so.
Lots of adjustability.
30 second timer, so won’t run down the battery.
Has been through several frog-stranglers and still works great.
Mount it and forget it.

CONS:

Thin plastic housing.
Small battery.
Weak, spot-like beams with little flood.
Needs a rubber mount plate seal/gasket to prevent water ingress into mounting area.
More a spot light than flood.

PICTURES

Packaged in a white cardboard box.

Well protected on inside with ample form-fitting Styrofoam packing.

Out of the box with mounting bracket and mounting hardware.

Topside.

A look at the under-side.

Here’s lookin’ at you, kid. 7 LEDs per can, 14 LEDs total.

Solar panel.

Housing opened up and Li-Po (LiFePO4) exposed.

Mounting area selected.

Installed.

Activated at dusk.

Ground shots of spot-like beams.

SUMMARY

Build quality and thin plastic housing was very suspect when I opened the box. The housing seemed decently built, but the thinness of the plastic was a concern. However, it has been mounted on my house for 3 months now, and has never failed to activate. We have had some huge rain-storms recently, especially about 2 months ago, that caused tremendous flooding in the state of Texas. However, this little unit has held up well with no adjustments or maintenance at all. Cost, I believe, is a smidgeon high. It would be better at about $12-$15. Overall, a reasonably tough little light..with limits, but zero maintenance.

KRONOMETER RATING:
Cost: 3
Looks: 4
Durability: 3.5
Function: 3.5
Average: 3.5/5

Thanks!
krono

Hello guys! Here would be my first watch review. I have done 2 flashlight reviews IIRC. But those were done with little effort. This one should be just like it. I wouldn’t want it to be too long nor too short. I got the watch for USD47 plus USD13 shipping. All for just a total of USD60. Fully automatic. I have yet to check run time deviation. I will let the movement break in first before updating this thread but whatever. I may not even update this thread unless I’m bothered enough! here’s a link! http://www.ebay.com.sg/itm/112058346515?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2648&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT Thats the store name but that link will bring you to the listing.
Great! Now we have the intro out of the way, we shall have photos!

It came in a hard black box. I think its ABS plastic. With gold accents.

The watch is presented this way but this watch has been resized by me.

The case is made of SS but the bezel is made of brass coated with I don’t even know what LOL, but it’s probably chrome plated!

The manual for anybody who can read Russian!

The extra links beside the watch itself. The links were a PITA to remove. Its a shitty bracelet but it shall work for the time being. Its really rattly and light.

Here is a close up.

And here is the case back!

I bought some mod parts for it from drseikostan on eBay.

They’re all SS and quite heavy for their size.

After proceeding to install them:

yes, that glass caseback is RED AR coated!

The bezel is a simple friction ring.

Here is the finished work!

I have a 6.25’‘ wrist and the watch is 42mm across without crown.

Just to show you guys a relative comparison. Sorry for the messy background LOL! Those are my sisters’ stuff.

If you guys have any questions just ask away! I’ll try my best to answer! Its my first automatic as well so I hope this watch serves me well

Edit:

Koche-vikto

This us the replacement link.

Hello, and thank you for checking out my latest watch review! In this post, I will be looking at a Parnis 40mm Automatic, Sterile-Black, Submariner-style watch. Phew…that was a mouthful…

FYI…the 40mm Parnis Sub is available in many other combinations, colors, movements, etc. The version for review has a Chinese mechanical movement (possibly the MingZhu DG2813?), and was purchased via auction from ebay seller ‘parnistime’. It is my understanding that the parnistime ebay store is directly owned/operated by Parnis (according to Parnis founder Avi Xiao). This is my first Parnis watch, and I have since received three others, with two more are on the way. It is safe to say I am somewhat impressed with the value of these timepieces.

^ Ebay listing Pic ^

^ And a few more of my pics ^

NOTE-Before I get to the review, a word about Parnis: There are definitely fans/followers of Parnis watches, both their original designs…as well as their ‘homage’ watches. On the opposite end of the spectrum, there are definitely those that despise Parnis, and many of the other Chinese manufacturers of Rolex/Panerai/Omega…fill in the blank…‘homage’ watches. I know this latter group does not consider them to be ‘homages’, but more like ‘knock-offs’. I understand this…and it has been argued ad infinitum on many other threads, and many other forums. I do not wish to dive into another endless debate about this issue….but I digress. Alternatively, I will focus on my impressions of the watch, and conclude with a 1-5 rating in five different categories…Cost, Looks, Durability, Function & Comfort.

The specs as they appeared, verbatim, from the ebay listing:

40mm Parnis
Sapphire Crystal
Black Dial
White NO
Automatic Watch

Description
Size: 40mm x 14mm (Note: 12.5 actual)
Movement: Automatic
Functions: Hour, Minutes, Seconds, Date
Case: Brushed 316L Stainless Steel Case
Crystal: Sapphire Crystal
Dial: Black Dial with White Numbers
Bezel: Rotating Bezel
Strap:Stainless Steel Bracelet
Clasp Deployment Buckle

KronoReview:

The parnistime/ebay pictures certainly feature an attractive looking product. The ‘sterile’ (no manufacturer markings anywhere) Parnis is a Submariner-style, homage watch. This version, with a Chinese automatic movement, is typically priced between $80-$120 for buy-it-now listings, but can be had for considerably less on traditional auctions…if you are patient enough.

^ Along w/old-school pal, SRK flashlight ^

^ And with the beastly S70 flashlight ^

^ Ready to dive? Not so fast there. No rating listed on auction or watch ^

The Parnis Sub came in a padded/bubble-wrap envelope, sans retail-box, wrapped fairly securely and decently protected, and sealed inside a styrofoam shipping box. It was VERY well protected.

This Sub homage is just as nice looking in person.

CASE/CROWN/CASEBACK/LUGS: The 316L Stainless Steel case is 40mm, and the overall height is 12.5mm high (13.75mm including cyclops)…which is a tad smaller size that I am usually comfortable with. I prefer about a 43mm, but this 40mm wears a tad larger. Lug-to-lug is 48mm. The top of the case is brushed, and the sides are polished. The crown protector extends a bit at the 3 O’clock side of the watch, covering about 3/4s of the crown. The screw-down crown is properly knurled and easily gripped. There are no manufacturer markings on any of these parts. The screw-down case-back requires a Rolex-style tool to remove, or as in my case, I used the rubber-ball method to remove the back. This method took some time as the case-back must have been cranked-down pretty tightly at the factory. There was a single black o-ring seal. There is no depth rating on this watch, and no paperwork indicating appropriate diving depths…so I cannot recommend this watch for that. I do have a message into Parnis to see if they can shed some light on the depth rating, and will add that to the review if/when received.

BRACELET/CLASP: The solid link, 20mm Stainless Steel oyster-style bracelet has screw-pins on five links for easy adjustability. The end links are also solid. The center section of the bracelet is polished, and outside sections are brushed. The locking deployment clasp is of a decent quality, and has an unusual micro-adjustment that snaps or un-snaps to add or shorten the length a few millimeters. Again…there are absolutely no markings on the bracelet or clasp.

DIAL/HANDS/INDICES/FUNCTIONS: The black dial has traditional submariner indices. Inverted triangle at 12 O’clock, rectangles at 6 and 9, and circles on the remaining hours. Each indice is raised with a silver edge, and a white, lumed center. A date window at 3 O’clock takes the place of the missing indice, and is easily readable with the date-magnifier window. The date wheel is white, with black Arabic numerals. The hour-hand is a typical Mercedes-style, with the minute hand a much longer sword-style, and second hand more of a lollipop/pointer with a small lollipop counter-balance located on the opposite end. All hands are lumed, but could use a longer-lasting, better quality compound.

^ Edit: Added Lume Shot ^

^ Hanging out in nature ^

MOVEMENT: Chinese automatic of unconfirmed origin (MingZhu?). It is not noisy in the least bit…and has so far kept exceptional time, averaging a 3 second loss per 24 hour period!

^ No markings on this movement ^

CRYSTAL: The sapphire crystal is flat, and has a cyclops (date-magnifier) at the 3 O’clock position. The crystal does extend above the bezel ever-so-slightly, perhaps .5mm. I cannot determine for certain if the crystal has an AR coating, but I believe it does not.

BEZEL: The black ceramic bezel matches the watch well and has an almost mirror-like finish to it. There is a GITD pip at 12, in a traditional, inverted triangle. Minute/second hash-marks from 12 to 3 only. After that, large, Arabic numerals at 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50…and larger hash-marks on the 5 minute marks. The bezel has a gear-tooth style surround, which is sufficiently grippy. For some odd reason, the bezel has 108 clicks. Clicks are solid, and there is absolutely no sloppiness whatsoever.

I think it looks quite snazzy on the wrist.

PROS:
Very accurate automatic movement, -3 sec/day.
Handsome Submariner looks.
Watch has a nice, solid, weighty feel to it.
Movement also hand-winds, and hacks.
Attractive fit and finish.
Protected and grippy screw-down crown.
Tight bezel with zero slop.
Date function.
Decent, screw-pin bracelet with solid end-links/bracelet links, snap micro-adjustment and safety clasp.
Flat Sapphire crystal with easy to read, magnified Date Window.
Lume on hour, minute, second hands and indices.
Rotor is smooth and barely audible.
Many color combos to choose from.

CONS:
Better quality lume needed.
No box or papers.
108 count click bezel.
No depth rating on watch or on ebay listing.

DIMENSIONS:
Width: 44.5mm (including crown)
Case Diameter: 40mm
Lug to lug: 48mm
Bracelet width: 20mm
Crystal: 30.5mm
Overall Height (top of crystal to caseback): 12.5mm (13.75mm including cyclops)
Weight: 150gms

RATING:
Cost: 5
Looks: 5
Durability: 4
Function: 4
Comfort: 4
Average: 4.4/5

CONCLUSION: The Parnis Sub is a very nice looking and nice feeling watch. While I can’t recommend it for diving, the watch wears well, and looks much more expensive that it costs. This is the fourth Parnis I have owned, and none of them have cratered, nor lost any functionality. Some other reviews have questioned the long-term build quality (as do I), but this is a story that only time will tell. Nevertheless…so far, so good on this fantastic, value-minded Submariner homage. Overall, considering the initial accuracy, looks and minimal cost, this is an exceptional deal.

Thanks,
krono

I am posting a brief review on a knife that I just received from Ali. I do not have any experience with an authentic BM 940 so I am strictly providing this review based on its overall quality in general.

Link to the Ali Store:
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/32782122008/32782122008.html

Blade centering: The knife came with absolute perfect blade centering
Blade-play and lockup: There is minimal blade-play, and lockup is firm. This example of a clone axis lock system is very nice on my sample.
Blade sharpness: This is perhaps the only place that I can scrounge up some sort of criticism. I have a number of knives, ranging from budget to high-ish end, including authentic benchmades. In comparison, this knife definitely did not come ‘hair popping sharp’. I usually go straight to a paper cut test, and a shave-test (which is why I constantly have strange bald patches on my arms). I am able to cut paper with relative ease, but the blade is unable to ‘pop the hairs off of my arm’. Overall, I can’t be too hard on the knife. Perhaps other samples may have that razor edge I was hoping for.
Scales: The carbon fibre scales are ultralight, and very high quality on my sample. It is hard to nit-pick any issues. All edges are smooth, and real carbon fibre is just hotness Ganzo CF is no comparison compared to this. The knife is capable of left or right hand tip-up carry.

The seller claimed the blade to be authentic S90V steel when I sent them a message. They insisted that I even test, but how many people really test for Rockwell Hardness? Well, I did. This doesn’t prove anything really, but I wanted to take them up on their claims of 60HRC.

The results? I measured the blade to be 60.5 HRC. Whether the steel is authentic S90V or not is another story. Take it for what you will, but the blade is made of quite a hard steel. I have a video of the measurement taking place that I may post later.

For now, I will provide you with a number of photos of the knife as well as comparisons to other knives in size and weight.

update: my deep carry authentic benchmade clip works on this clone.

Don’t mind the tiny indentation just above the Osborne logo. That is the result of the Rockwell Hardness test.

The threaded inserts in the CF for the pocket clip are a nice touch.

Did I mention that this knife is super light weight?