Tactical Frog Owner Review : Robust, consistent and convicing

Tactical Frog Titanium FX-Diving V4: A Successful Tribute to the Tudor Pelagos FXD Tribute watches continue to divide watch enthusiasts. Tactical Frog, an emerging Chinese brand, has carved out a place for itself in this segment by offering quality models at affordable prices. With this Tactical Frog FX-Diving V4, a tribute to the Tudor Pelagos FXD (ref. M25707B/24-0001), the brand offers an elegant and robust titanium diver, while integrating some notable improvements. An Inspired Design with a Touch of Originality Titanium Case: Lightness and Resistance The case, made entirely of titanium, is one of the great strengths of this model. Known for its lightness and resistance to corrosion, titanium is an ideal choice for a diving watch. With a diameter of 42 mm and a thickness of 13.3 mm, the watch is relatively imposing, but comfort on the wrist is ensured by its lightness. The brushed finish gives the watch a sophisticated yet functional look, while minimizing scratches. Bi-Directional Ceramic Bezel: The matte blue ceramic bezel, with its 60 clicks and clear markings, fits perfectly with the utilitarian design of the watch. While it offers easy handling, even with gloves, the precision of the clicks could be improved. Crown and Case Back: The screw-down crown, adorned with the Tactical Frog logo (an engraved frog), ensures a water resistance of 200 meters and is easy to handle thanks to its notches. The screw-down case back, also in titanium, features a playful engraving of the frog, adding a distinctive touch to this diver. A 3D Blue Dial and Functional Hands: The matte blue dial stands out with its textured finish and 3D applied indexes. The Tactical Frog logo is visible under 12 o'clock, while the inscriptions "AUTOMATIC" and "WATER RESISTANT" and "200BAR/200M" recall the technical specifications of the watch. The large and luminescent "Snowflake" hands, as well as the indexes filled with BGW-9 lume, offer impeccable readability, even in the dark. The sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment completes this set by ensuring excellent visibility from different angles. Reliable and efficient movement: The watch is equipped with the famous Japanese Seiko NH35 automatic movement. This reliable and robust caliber, often used in accessible watches, offers a power reserve of 41 hours. While it doesn’t reach the precision of the Tudor Pelagos FXD’s MT5602 movement, it’s still more than adequate for everyday use. Strap and Comfort: The nylon and velcro strap, while less luxurious than the Tudor FXD’s, is functional and easily adjustable thanks to its titanium buckle. However, it can add a bit of extra thickness under the wrist. The lugs attached to the case require the use of compatible straps, limiting customization options. Unbeatable Value for Money: The Tactical Frog FX-Diving V4 is one of the most affordable titanium dive watches on the market. Its titanium case, ceramic bezel, sapphire crystal, and reliable movement make it a hard-to-match offering at this price. Although the packaging is minimalist (a simple plastic box with protective foam), this watch remains an excellent proposition for fans of tribute watches. Bottom Line: This Tactical Frog FX-Diving V4 is a serious alternative to the Tudor Pelagos FXD and proves that tribute watches can offer more than just an inspired design. With features like a 3D dial, powerful lume, and a sturdy titanium case, it rivals much more expensive models in many ways. If you’re willing to look past the debates over the ethics of tribute watches, this Tactical Frog FX-Diving V4 could be a great addition to your collection.