Simple Living

Casio G-Shock DW-6900 Battery Replacement Experience The backlight on my Casio G-Shock DW-6900 stopped working, although the time display and all other functions were still operational. I suspected the battery might be low on power, especially since the backlight is a significant draw. Battery Replacement Steps After some research, I found the instructions for replacing the battery, which confirmed it uses a CR2016 battery . Here’s a summary of the steps I followed: Gather Tools : You’ll need a tiny Phillips screwdriver to remove the back screws and a needle or pin to release the battery harness. Remove the Back Cover : Use the Phillips screwdriver to carefully unscrew the back cover of the watch. Replace the Battery : Gently release the battery harness using the needle or pin. This step can be tricky; I had to watch several YouTube videos and review the online instructions multiple times to get it right. Caution : Take your time with the battery harness catch to avoid permanent damag

Choosing My Next Watch: Casio G-Shock DW-5600 vs. Casio A168 In 2021, I found myself considering a new watch to add to my collection after my last purchase, the Victorinox INOX , in 2020. With the unfortunate demise of my Apple Series 2 , I had room for another timepiece. I was drawn to two classic options: Casio G-Shock DW-5600 Casio A168 Evaluating the Contenders Details Matter While my collection of G-Shocks has always been solid, I’ve found some lacking in certain aspects. My GLX-5600 is a striking red, but my DW-6900 is too bulky, and the G9000 has a hard-to-read negative display. This led me to consider the black DW-5600 or the silver A168 . Pro #1: Both Are Affordable One major advantage of these watches is their affordability. Although I’m leaning towards the DW-5600 , I’m also tempted to acquire both. Their prices typically range between $20-$40 , making them low-risk additions to my collection. Pro #2: G-Shock's Indestructibility I’ve always appreciated G-Shocks for

Cycling Through My Collection: The Seiko SKX781 Orange Monster Recently, I’ve been cycling through my collection and have been sporting the Seiko SKX781 , affectionately known as the Orange Monster . It’s fascinating how wearing larger watches, like the Victorinox INOX and Armani AR585 , makes the SKX781 feel just right in terms of size. Love/Hate Relationship The SKX781 evokes a mixed bag of feelings; I can completely understand why people either love it or hate it. Over my five years of ownership, I've experienced both sides. Its bold and blunt styling—with the metal bezel and case—can be off-putting for some. However, this design gives it a more modern and unique vibe compared to other divers, particularly the more traditional Submariner-style bezels found on watches like the SKX007 . What Draws Me In What truly attracted me to the SKX781 was its stunning orange dial. It’s undoubtedly one of the most legible dials I’ve encountered, and I wish more brands, including Seiko, wou

Enjoying a Simple Cup of Instant Starbucks Via Coffee It's been a while since I've brewed a cup of instant Starbucks Via Coffee , and I must say, it’s a nice change of pace. While it may not be gourmet coffee, it definitely stands out when compared to its market niche of K-Cups and other instant brands like Nescafe . A Humble Pleasure There’s something refreshing about enjoying a simple cup of instant coffee. In a world where we often seek the finest brews and elaborate coffee-making methods, taking a moment to appreciate the convenience and straightforwardness of instant coffee can be quite rewarding. While it may not offer the complexities of a freshly brewed cup, Starbucks Via provides a solid flavor that exceeds expectations for instant coffee. Sometimes, it’s the humble moments that allow us to pause and appreciate the little things, and this cup of coffee does just that. Whether it’s a quick morning boost or a midday pick-me-up, there’s a certain charm in simplicity.

Embracing the Zenith with a New Oyster Style Bracelet I recently bought an oyster style bracelet for my Zenith , and it's made a noticeable difference in my watch-wearing experience. With the summer heat making leather impractical, this bracelet offers both comfort and style. Plus, I’m really enjoying the 36mm size of watches lately, which feels just right on my wrist. A Classic Look The bracelet gives my Zenith an appearance reminiscent of my Rolex Explorer 114270 , which was actually part of the reason I chose this particular style. There's a certain elegance in that classic design, and the combination of the two watches side by side is quite appealing. From Hating to Loving Interestingly, there was a time when I had buyers remorse about the Zenith. I often wished I had opted for a Hamilton Khaki or Seiko SARB , as they were all similarly priced under $500. However, my feelings have changed over time. I’ve come to appreciate the Zenith for its classic design , simplicity

Maintaining White Shoes: My Cleaning Journey Owning white shoes definitely has its perks, but one of the obvious downsides is that they get dirty quickly and require regular cleaning to keep them looking decent. As I prepare to step up to nicer pairs of kicks, I've opted for some classic, affordable options to practice my cleaning skills. For now, I'm using basic home cleaning agents like detergent and bleach . Cleaning Schedule: Daily & Monthly I’ve established a two-part cleaning schedule: Daily : I wipe down any white shoes I've worn to minimize dirt and grime from setting in. This quick maintenance helps keep them looking fresh. Monthly : I perform a deeper clean for shoes that I've worn regularly or that are starting to look really dirty. This involves removing the laces and cleaning each component of the shoe separately for a thorough clean. Cleaning Methods Here’s how I approach the cleaning: Laces : So far, the laces have held up well with just soap and wa

My Experience with a Daiso Foldable Backpack I’ve been on the lookout for a foldable backpack, considering brands like Osprey , but I wasn’t ready to spend $30 or more. Instead, I found a Foldable Backpack from Daiso for just $4 . I needed something lightweight to carry a water bottle and some snacks while out and about, and this bag seemed perfect for that! Pros and Cons of the Daiso Backpack Initial Impressions For $4 , you definitely get an ultralight bag made of thin material with weaker zippers. It’s crucial to treat it gently; if you do, it’ll serve its purpose. However, the instruction tag warns against moisture, so it’s not water-resistant and could easily soak through. Plenty of Pockets The bag features: A main compartment A smaller compartment that it folds back into Two side mesh pouches for small water bottles A small hanging pocket within the main compartment The pockets are quite useful, although I wouldn’t risk putting anything valuable in the side mesh pockets; I ju

Alox vs. Cellidor: My Experience with Victorinox Swiss Army Knives Having owned and used both Alox and Cellidor Victorinox Swiss Army knives, I've come to appreciate the unique characteristics of each. These materials define the handles, or scales, of the knives, leading to differences in durability, weight, and aesthetics. Understanding Alox and Cellidor Alox Material : Alox stands for Aluminum Oxide , a metal finish that has been used in military-issued Soldier knives for the Swiss Army since the 1960s, continuing until around 2008. Victorinox has also produced civilian versions, such as the Pioneer Alox , which is a near-exact replica of the Soldier with the addition of a keyring. Durability : The metallic scales offer increased resistance to impact and chemicals compared to plastic, making them a robust choice for rugged use. Cellidor Material : Cellidor refers to the plastic scales used on many Victorinox civilian knife models, most famously recognized by their iconic red co

Farewell to My Apple Watch: A Transition Back to Traditional Timepieces After four years of faithful service, my Apple Watch Series 2 in Space Grey Aluminum (42mm) has finally succumbed. I bought it new when it was first released in April 2017, and while I appreciated its features, I'm surprisingly relieved that it has died. This unexpected freedom allows me to reconnect with my traditional quartz and mechanical watches. Embracing Analog Again Lately, I’ve been enjoying my Victorinox INOX for most days, which combines durability and style. When I need something lightweight, my Swatch has been my go-to option. I also feel a renewed excitement for my G-Shocks , which are now getting the attention they deserve during workouts and hikes. Considering Repair Options Update - 5/22/21 I checked the Apple Service website and discovered that an out-of-warranty battery replacement would cost $79 . Given that a newer Model 3 is just double the price, I’ve decided that repairing the battery

Excited to Welcome My First Limited Edition Swiss Army Knife I’ve finally taken the plunge and picked up my first Limited Edition Swiss Army Knife : the Aqua Blue Alox Pioneer . Released as part of the 2020 annual colors edition, I found it at a particularly good price, and I couldn't resist. Shifting Focus in My Collection I’ve decided to halt my collecting for the remainder of 2021 , with the exception of possibly picking up another Limited Edition, such as the 2021 Alox Pioneer X . With over half a billion Swiss Army Knives produced as of 2017, there’s really no need to chase after common models. Instead, I want to focus on the uniqueness of Limited Editions that stand out in my collection. Impressions of the Main Blade The main blade on the Alox Pioneer is the most substantial one I've yet to experience among my Swiss Army Knives. I own several models, from the svelte 58mm Classic to the 111mm Trekker , but the 93mm Alox stands out as a beefy contender. The blade features

Addition of Yamazaki 12 Year Single Malt Whisky to My Collection I’m thrilled to share that I was able to pick up a bottle of Yamazaki 12 Year Single Malt Whisky from Suntory ! This whisky has a rich history and a reputation for being one of the finest expressions of Japanese whisky. A Shift in Perception I remember hearing that this whisky used to sell for a fraction of what it costs today—comparable to the price of Johnnie Walker Black Label . It’s fascinating to see how the perception and market value of Yamazaki have changed over the years. I’ve had the chance to taste it several times, and I’ve been on the lookout for a bottle for quite some time. Waiting for the Right Moment I received this bottle as a gift, so I’m planning to wait for a special occasion to truly savor it. There’s something about enjoying a high-quality whisky that makes the experience all the more memorable. Whether it’s a quiet evening at home or a gathering with friends, I’ll make sure to choose a moment that

Reflecting on a Decade with the Victorinox Swiss Army Knife - One Hand Trekker I recently realized that I purchased my Victorinox Swiss Army Knife - One Hand Trekker from Amazon back in 2011 , making it a decade old! Despite the time that has passed, it still looks and feels brand new, as I’ve barely used it. The Need for a Locking Blade The Trekker was an essential purchase for me, especially after a nasty accident with a regular 91mm Swiss Army Knife. While multitasking on a hike, I accidentally sliced my hand quite badly. Fortunately, I managed to apply first aid and avoid a trip to the hospital, but it definitely highlighted the need for a safer option. The 111mm Trekker not only offers a locking blade for added safety but also maintains the trusted quality of the Victorinox brand. In hindsight, I wish I had gone for the non-serrated version . However, I’m satisfied with the standard serrated option, especially since I picked it up for just $31 back in 2011. Nowadays, the Trekk

Finding the Ideal Urban EDC: The Victorinox Climber After experimenting with various Swiss Army Knife models, I've concluded that the Victorinox Climber is the ideal choice for my urban EDC needs. Portability, weight, and a good pair of scissors are the three key factors I consider when selecting a Swiss Army Knife for everyday carry. Here are a few other contenders I considered: Compact : Lacks an awl and a second blade. Super Tinker : Features a Phillips head instead of a corkscrew. Pioneer X : Has no bottom-side tools and an awl instead of a second blade. Tools of the Climber Large Blade Small Blade Can Opener Bottle Opener Scissors Awl/Reamer Corkscrew Tweezers Toothpick Weight and Portability Considerations While models like the Huntsman and Explorer offer a wide array of tools, the extra weight—about half an ounce more for the Huntsman—can make a noticeable difference in pocket carry. In an urban setting, I’ve found that the wood saw, while handy, isn't essential for m

Restarting My Victorinox Swiss Army Knife Collection for 2021 I'm excited to restart my Victorinox Swiss Army Knife collection for 2021! I've recently acquired an Alox Cadet and have a Huntsman and Climber on the way. My focus will be on a few select models, emphasizing Alox for its durability and aesthetics, while the plastic scale models will serve utility roles, stored at the office, home, and in various bags. Current Collection Swiss Champ Red // 2011 // Collectible Trekker Black // 2011 // BOB bag Huntsman Silver Tech // 2016 // EDC rotation Black // 1979-1985 // Hiking Bag Cadet Alox Silver // EDC rotation Climber Black // 1979-1985 // Collectible Traveler // 1979-1985 // Collectible Hoffritz // 1985-1990 // Collectible Ruby // 1992-2005 // EDC rotation Camper Red // 1999-2005 // Collectible Spartan Red // 2009-2011 // Car Red // 2009-2011 // Office Ruby/Sapphire // 2009-2011 // Messenger Bag Classic Classic // First Aid Classic Lite // Collectible With the Huntsman a