Purchased this watch a year ago, been wearing it almost daily and many other watches have been left in the case. Today my son came to visit. He saw the watch and guess what. He's going home with it. I'm going to miss this one, really love it
Guy, I love the precision and digestibility of your reviews: They're always solid, self-effacing and honest. Excellent photography and sound quality. I own 8 Seikos, some heavily modded, and love them all. I never buy a Seiko with accuracy in mind because I know they don't use conventional mainsprings: They employ irascible gerbils wearing tiny, yellow hardhats, and they go fast, or slow, depending on their moods. This gives each watch it's own personality, and I've learned to cope with each gerbil positionally on the night stand, or by treating it with the TimeGrapher and a few regulator bar battles, which typically makes for a better mannered gerbil who's, thereafter, mostly cooperative.
Great review. Congrats on the pick up! I laughed when you said you picked the grey because you "are boring". You're not boring; you have classic styling!
I have this watch and love it too! There are some quirks and negatives (clasp, diver’s extension, bezel action, movement, endlink gap in the bracelet) but the watch and design as a whole is a definite home run and a keeper!
Amazing review. I was fortunate enough to get this watch in it’s Pre-ISO change so mine does not have the lume pip at 3 o’clock, which annoys me that they added it. I feel like if this exact watch had another name on it they could easily command $5,000 or more for it! Great value for money and that dial is mesmerizing in the light!
The original version without the lume pip at the 3 is much more clean looking and symmetrical. If you can get your hands on one, it will likely be a collectors item.
Great review, thanks. It's been around and I looked at it last year, and it stuck in my mind, finally I gave in and got this exact model. Then it struck me why this watch eventually grabbed me; back in the late sixties my first watch was a matic lady diver a watch quite similar to this model, and clearly modelled on the then 62mas.
Always keep coming back to this fabulous review. I personally love your Seiko and citizen reviews, I’d love to see you check out the new Land Tortoise, which has blue lume.
Great review! I've been eyeing this model since the first leaked images popped up early last year. Then it came out and I just couldn't justify the price, going affordable homage route to scratch the 62mas itch, but eventually getting rid of them. Fast forward to last weekend when I finally decided to flip a similarly priced piece in my collection and got SPB143 v1 in mint condition (yes, I prefer v1 dial a bit more). And damn, should I have done it earlier! It's not perfect perhaps, but it's a great contender to become the only decent modern watch in my colection (unless Seiko makes another 62mas iteration in future, haha). So glad I finally got one.
I agree that it’s classic and modern But it’s also very tool and rugged looking but has a nice glitzy jewelry look as well I look at it all the time without looking at the time
@@JustBlueFish thanks man! How do you find the screw down crown? Its seems a bit hard to find the thread and it takes half a turn for the crown to pop open. Did you experience this?
Great review Guy! I had been looking for an "affordable" diver for quite a while, and when I came across this one, I just couldn't pass it up. I really like the classic look and prefer the handset to anything else out there, even the unobtainable Rolex. I've really enjoyed wearing this on a variety of NATOs.
Nice watch indeed Guy. I was recently treated to the Seiko Willard (Green) by my wife due to me getting a promotion at work. I've had it around four weeks now and I can not stop wearing it. Normally I rotate my watches by wearing a different one each week but I cant take this off lol. Its great when one bites us like the 143 has with you.
Thanks for the review. I have a number of their watches with the 6R35 movement. I don't track the accuracy because i have so many watches i change them often, but i love the the feeling of winding the 6R35. Foe me, it's got a great winding experience. One of the best for the price!
Fantastic review 👍👏 your video quality and overall presentation is magnificent. That's why you have over 42k subscribers 😜 I love this watch too - I reviewed it back in May and enjoy the watch even more and never tire of looking at it. All the best.
This was a very good review. I tried a bunch of Seiko divers on at an AD recently, and somewhat surprisingly liked that one the most. It's very tempting for sure. For what it's worth, I've heard/read in multiple places that you shouldn't regulate a Seiko movement until at least a month after you've gotten it, because they take some time to settle down (maybe break in is a better term). I'd be curious to know how yours is doing in a couple months.
Hi Guy, I bought this watch for the same reasons you did (beautiful, classic design, subtle but powerful wrist presence), but found the screw down crown was notchy and unpredictable, and had to return it. It made me sad, but for that money (and especially because my SARB and SKX have been so awesome) I couldn't see myself settling for it. Thanks for your thoughtful review!
@@JustBlueFish I tried but they told me, because the AD salesperson had checked out the watch before shipping it to me, that it was well “within spec.” And given Seiko’s QC issues, I figured I’d leave well enough alone. Turned out OK because I ended up splurging and getting my then grail watch. A happy/sad ending. BTW, are you pleased with the crown action?
@@JinKee It’s the omega seamaster professional in white. The “failed” seiko was the best mistake that’s come my way (because my wife would never have let me get another diver, at least for a while)
Very nice video Guy. I have been considering getting the watch myself. I don't get why many more watches don't feature a tool less adjustable clasp. That really should be a standard feature for watches.
I’ve definitely become more of a Swiss watch guy over the years so it’s been a while since I’ve bought a Seiko but this one is really nice . I love the look and size.
I love this watch, but I would like to point out that the Dia Shield coating is pretty much useless. I wear mine on an isofrane during the summer and there’s already a ton of scratches underneath the lugs from the spring bars.
Bought one of the original ones without the stunted marker at 3:00. It is a nice watch and I use it some, but I think I prefer my Sinn U50. Will likely keep both though.
its very nice, i always wanted a cheaper seiko diver, like the skx but ive always hated the day date, when the mini turtle came out the other year i jumped on one, for me it covers my seiko diver fix, its a cool little watch
@@JustBlueFish it doesnt have any luxury features but the rubber strap is nice, i bought it for the design of the case and the big bold dial, the dial looks huge but because of the design of the case its footprint on my wrist is the same as my bb36, very clever
Good review i agree with you about the time keeping on the 4r36 movement i have the seiko Samurai not the best on Is acracy but good enough for me ! Thanks
I think the date window should have a polished surround like the indexes have. It's a bit Seiko 5 ish in that respect but it is a superb looking dive watch.
Wearing my SPB143 on the bracelet and just had a comment "is that a Pelagos and is it titanium" lol. Also just received the Silicon strap for it from the SPB147, this could be the exit watch!
I have seen mixed reviews on this watch. Its great that you have a positive review on this. I am curious, may I ask if you put it on the timegrapher? If so, what is the beat error?
I put it on the timegrapher when I first got it. I don’t recall the exact beat error, but it wasn’t egregiously bad. Similar to what I typically see on a Seiko.
Great review and a cracking looking watch. It hits the sweet spot like a Rolex Sunbmariner of old. It has to be a strap monster and as you said, a cracking one watch collection. I have the SPB053 and it is beautifully built, but for some a touch big. I have large wrists and it suits me, but this is the first Seiko that will stop me yearning for a Pelagos or a BB58 Blue......niiiiice!
Guy, it's been a year since you posted your video, if you have the time, can you please share your current thoughts on this watch? Thank you, always appreciate your perspective.
Great video Guy, very informative with the good and could do better points articulated very well. I would seriously consider this model but at the moment I have enough dive watches to fill a small fish tank. If I didn't I would certainly consider taking a look at the Seiko SPB and may well take a look anyway. A great point on the consistency of the movement accuracy, it's almost impossible to regulate if a movement drifts +- seconds different days but I'd guess that as long as it's consistently close to accurate either way over time that should be good enough for most of us. Thanks again for the review.
@@JustBlueFish I'm sure I've used this formula from someone else before, The ideal watch collection = N+1 where N is the current number of watches in the collection. Maybe I need a bigger fish tank.
Guy, for a one watch collection; this or a Sinn 556i? I know, two different styles and the Sinn is a couple hundred more but if you had to choose just one? Hope you’ll take a moment to share your thoughts.
I've been looking at the 556 for over a year. It's such a gorgeous watxh that's tough as nails and is 200m water resistance. It is the perfect every day watch that will last a lifetime. Plus the sinn will be more accurate. I'd suggest the H link bracelet because the other metal bracelet doesn't have micro adjusts. If I had $1500 for an everyday watch, I would have to choose sinn. This is coming from a guy who currently owns 2 seikos and 0 sinn watches. However, thar seiko diver is gorgeous
@@JustBlueFish That would be awesome. I just wish I had a ceramic bezel watch in my collection, but the ones I would want are all Rolex and so astronomical in price. Would love to know/have some good ceramic options in the $500-1500 range.
Not sure encouraging Seiko to increase prices further for what should already be more than standard on a watch at this price makes sense. Surely we should be expecting more? 🤔
I've got an Aquis & they are quite blingy as the bracelet is partly polished. The SPB 143 is a vintage re issue whereas the Oris is a more modern slightly brutal design. Personally I prefer the design of the Seiko, just wish it had a better movement!
Oris is a great watch, but hard to compare these two. Maybe the Oris Diver 65 would be a better comparison since they are more similar. But, that said, I think the Aquis might be the technically “better” watch, and it should be it costs more. But I like the Seiko style better.
@@JustBlueFish Guy I agree with you. Oris makes outstanding tool watches that borders the edge of the luxury price tier, but the style, looks, smaller case, lower price and most of all versatility gives these new Seiko SPB models a very sharp edge over many of the Swiss dive offerings today!!!! Great review again!!! 👌
It’s very nice, but the finishing around that punched out rather than framed date window seems a bit rough. Especially for the money. Also that 6R35 meh movement is available in Seiko’s half the price of this. It’s just not a value proposition IMO.
Hi guy! I've recently acquired the tudor bb36 (blue). What are your thoughts when it comes to comparing these 2 watches? My wrist is only at 6.5-6.6~ inches so the spb143 wears quite big for me🤣. Hope to hear from you soon. David
What about the lume pip at 3 o'clock? I this ruined an otherwise perfect dial...I had one of these 2021 models and sent it back...picked up a used one from late 2020, which didn't have the lume pip.
@@ronpower7790 Not really they would have had to remove divers200m from the dial & a lot of people would have complained about it not being ISO certified even though they'd never dive with it!
@@Andrew.W75 Imho everything's better than this wart ahm lume pip at the 3...probably Im just fixated on that detail haha but it really bugged me when I had the later version.
@@magnuman008 It's pretty close. Maybe a hair off to the left as well on mine but not as bad as the video. In the video it's just not clicked in place.
I have one of these (spb297) everything's great except for the interior metal casing finishing between the lugs. It is like they forgot to finish it. Im annoyed by it and never put it on a strap because of it.
Mine is the same its like the diashield coating not done properly. I wonder if the editions that come on straps are finished better than bracelet versions.
@daveLin104 yeah sorry to hear. Yes, absolutely correct, it is as if the diashield was applied haphazardly. I've heard so much about seiko mid tier watches coming up on omega and tag and tudor etc and so I bought a couple and have been disappointed thoroughly w their ability to finish and pay attention to details. I'm a details man, i prefer a bland watch but finished high quality and superb fit finish and proportion, over a complex interesting watch but you can see they cut corners in all the details. And seiko doesn't fit me. I'm selling them off for that. I'll stick to my tag carrera and seamaster.
@bryanryan4504 thanks for the reply you are correct in what you are saying its like the diashield lazily applied because not immediately seen. Seiko should know most swap straps etc they even put drilled lugs on for this reason. Its so annoying though because the designs are so good in my opinion I want Citizen quality with Seiko designs. I keep looking at Tag I think they get too much bashing. I like the aquaracer and fancy the 200 quartz solar but the price is so steep and in shop windows they have so much hand backlash on the quartz and they don't hit the markers 😬 do you like the Tag ?
@daveLin104 I only like a few watches from tag my favorite watch I have WAR201E.BA0723 it is the best looking gada watch imo and I only need that if I had to take one with me to an island. It is finished so beautifully and the proportions are perfect for me. The look is amazing. I wear it to everything from going out, to work, to party on Las Vegas strip. The price most don't like bc they constantly compare it to other brands. It's like a double standard; they find the price range unacceptable for tag but for midtier seiko, oris, longines, and the like, they don't say anything. Why? I dunno. Tag is my brand. I paid a little over 2000 dollars for my carrera brand new and it is the best money I have spent more than anything else including tudor or omega.
@bryanryan4504 just looked that Tag reference up looks gorgeous 😍 You are correct most watch snobs bash tag now with most not even having any experience of owning one etc. I do love the brand and herritage. I just wished the quartz version the hand hit the markers like my old casios and citizens .......
At the same price point, I'd throw the Marine Master 200 (particularly the green faced model) into the conversation. Loads of character, a quality item and real presence on the wrist to boot. 140th Limited Edition too.
Oh, I also want to add that I agree with your thoughts on this being a classic. I definitely consider it a modern classic. It's both vintage inspired, yet modern. That is my ideal combination. While I am not opposed to "fauxtina," there are quite a few watches I think would be spectacularly modern with regular lume. The new 2021 Omega Seamaster 300 is one example that would look great with regular lume, and maybe even more of a Sub competitor.
Hi @justbluefishwatchreviews amazing review and a great looking watch. I got my khaki field Auto based on your review and love it, also have a 38mm mechanical as well now. How does this compare to your Khaki field auto and mechanical donyou still wear them ?
I do still have the Auto, but I don't have the mechanical anymore. I tend to wear divers more often than any other type of watch so this Seiko gets a lot more wrist time. But I really like them both a lot.
@@JustBlueFish Hi just wondering how you are getting on with the SPB143 do you still own it ? Does it get a lot of wrist time or has something replaced it ? Thanks
@@daveLin104 I sold almost all of my watches over the last few months, so I don't have this one anymore. It's still probably my all time favorite Seiko Diver but, I needed to raise some money so most of my collection had to go.
@@JustBlueFish oh no sorry to hear you have sold most of your watches :( thought this was a keeper for you. I hope you still have the Hamilton 38mmm auto. Are you downsizing to make collection more minimal?
I've tried several times to get one because I do love it a lot. Unfortunately I didn't have good luck to find a nice example, so in the end I just gave up.
Very good and intelligent review. The SPB143 touches many boxes. However, the movement is suspect. For that kind of money, you are i LLonhines hydro quest territory. I would genuinely be bothered by an inconsistent movement and that happens on the SR35.
Regulating will help for sure, but it might need to be serviced if it’s losing that much time. I’ve done a video in the past on how to regulate a Seiko movement. It’s pretty easy, if you want to buy a timegrapher. Otherwise, find a local watch maker to do it for you, or contact Seiko customer service. Losing a minute per day is pretty extreme and would most likely be fixed under warranty.
How to tell if a Seiko is genuine or replica? - the bezel or chapter ring on the genuine Seiko are not aligned... I love the watch and I love the brand. But I hate their QC
Not sure it's as nice as the 051. The indices really pop on the 051 and the bezel is thinner. The bracelet is better too. This model is smaller at 40.5mm so would appeal to more users, and the higher power reserve. The 143 is also a few hundred more than the 051 was new, so more expensive. It's basically arguable which is the better watch. What I can say is both are beautiful, and great quality, questioning why you would spend 7x more for a sub etc. I've got dearer watches than my 051, but it's still my go to watch. Had mine over 3 years and it still looks mint. Glad your enjoying it guy.
@@JustBlueFish , got a chance to get the sla043, with the blue seconds hand, but I really want the sla017 , but they are hard to find. Would you say they are worth the premium over the more reasonable priced spb ? I've not actually seen one in the flesh. Thanks
I had the SPB213. Got rid of it for exactly the reason you mentioned about the inconsistent time keeping. In fact, I’m done with Seiko until that ceases to be a problem. $1200 for a watch that loses 15 seconds a day is a serious indictment on this crappy company
Yep, that's Seiko too a T. Most of the public see the Asian assembled stock, even when the dial states "Japan" that only means the actual movement so FYI, Seiko will only assemble within their territories if a watch will sell for over $850 US. So the SPB143j is well in that range. Then it's still a throw of the dice hoping the coffee machine didn't go on the blink or a worker was falling asleep from exhaustion. This can happen in the so called Swiss assembly plants as well. They too get as much Asian /China components they can lay their hands on, same rule only 50% Swiss and that only means the movement in 14 of the top 20 makers, Swatch etc. The SPB143j & SPB207j I have are okay, did take the online factory 3 year cover, ya never know with a Seiko. :)
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Purchased this watch a year ago, been wearing it almost daily and many other watches have been left in the case. Today my son came to visit. He saw the watch and guess what. He's going home with it. I'm going to miss this one, really love it
Looks like you need a replacement!
Get the SPB239, same case but slightly different.
Guy, I love the precision and digestibility of your reviews: They're always solid, self-effacing and honest. Excellent photography and sound quality. I own 8 Seikos, some heavily modded, and love them all. I never buy a Seiko with accuracy in mind because I know they don't use conventional mainsprings: They employ irascible gerbils wearing tiny, yellow hardhats, and they go fast, or slow, depending on their moods. This gives each watch it's own personality, and I've learned to cope with each gerbil positionally on the night stand, or by treating it with the TimeGrapher and a few regulator bar battles, which typically makes for a better mannered gerbil who's, thereafter, mostly cooperative.
Haha gerbils. This is the best comment I’ve gotten in years. Thank you.
Hahaha
Great review. Congrats on the pick up! I laughed when you said you picked the grey because you "are boring". You're not boring; you have classic styling!
Haha, classic… yeah let’s go with that instead of boring, thanks Jeff!
Lmao 😂
This is a watch I have been considering. I want to thank you for a fair and honest review. Welcome back.
Thanks for watching Carl, hope the video was helpful!
Bought mine last week spontaneously when I walked in to my local watch shop. Absolutely love it!
Congrats!
Was very glad to see you showing this watch so much love. This and the spb185 have me really struggling
I have this watch and love it too! There are some quirks and negatives (clasp, diver’s extension, bezel action, movement, endlink gap in the bracelet) but the watch and design as a whole is a definite home run and a keeper!
I had this watch regulated to +6/-4 in 5 positions. It's absolutely perfect now.
Best Spb143 watch review. Your camera work, closeups, and editing are awesome!
Thanks appreciate that!
Amazing review. I was fortunate enough to get this watch in it’s Pre-ISO change so mine does not have the lume pip at 3 o’clock, which annoys me that they added it. I feel like if this exact watch had another name on it they could easily command $5,000 or more for it! Great value for money and that dial is mesmerizing in the light!
Brett, you got a limited edition! 😂 I didn’t know that about the lume pip addition until I saw this video. That makes yours that much more special.
I went in to buy a Willard (had wanted one for ages). Came out with one of these.
I like the Willard but a bit too big for me.
Great review of a great watch. Had it for 6 months and still love it. Upgraded the clasp to one from the MM300. It made even better!
Thanks for the MM300 clasp tip I'll look into that!
The original version without the lume pip at the 3 is much more clean looking and symmetrical. If you can get your hands on one, it will likely be a collectors item.
Agree ( and have one 😊)
I got one and I agree
My favorite watch as well. In the beginning, I was losing 20 minutes a day. Thank goodness I was able to get it repaired under warranty 😅
Great review, thanks. It's been around and I looked at it last year, and it stuck in my mind, finally I gave in and got this exact model. Then it struck me why this watch eventually grabbed me; back in the late sixties my first watch was a matic lady diver a watch quite similar to this model, and clearly modelled on the then 62mas.
Always keep coming back to this fabulous review. I personally love your Seiko and citizen reviews, I’d love to see you check out the new Land Tortoise, which has blue lume.
Great review! I've been eyeing this model since the first leaked images popped up early last year. Then it came out and I just couldn't justify the price, going affordable homage route to scratch the 62mas itch, but eventually getting rid of them. Fast forward to last weekend when I finally decided to flip a similarly priced piece in my collection and got SPB143 v1 in mint condition (yes, I prefer v1 dial a bit more). And damn, should I have done it earlier! It's not perfect perhaps, but it's a great contender to become the only decent modern watch in my colection (unless Seiko makes another 62mas iteration in future, haha). So glad I finally got one.
Congrats and enjoy. I’m super happy with mine.
I agree that it’s classic and modern
But it’s also very tool and rugged looking but has a nice glitzy jewelry look as well
I look at it all the time without looking at the time
I bought this one 3 days ago… should be getting it this Friday! So excited! Thanks for the review
Cool. Congrats and enjoy it!
@@JustBlueFish thanks man! How do you find the screw down crown? Its seems a bit hard to find the thread and it takes half a turn for the crown to pop open. Did you experience this?
Fantastic review of a great watch. You get to handle so many. For you to throw down the cash for it, shows you truly like it and the review is honest.
You need to get one!
I love the SPB143. Great pickup, Guy.
Thanks Bob, I’m loving it.
Great review Guy! I had been looking for an "affordable" diver for quite a while, and when I came across this one, I just couldn't pass it up. I really like the classic look and prefer the handset to anything else out there, even the unobtainable Rolex. I've really enjoyed wearing this on a variety of NATOs.
I haven’t taken mine off bracelet yet, but now that you mention it, it might be time.
Congratulations 🎉🍾 Guy! Good looking watch but I’ve given up on Seiko for now. Best regards 😎
I had sort of given up on them too, till I saw this one.
It's a future classic... I love wearing mine.. Tried alot of straps on it and it goes well with everything! You'll love it! Cheers!
Nice watch indeed Guy. I was recently treated to the Seiko Willard (Green) by my wife due to me getting a promotion at work. I've had it around four weeks now and I can not stop wearing it. Normally I rotate my watches by wearing a different one each week but I cant take this off lol. Its great when one bites us like the 143 has with you.
Thanks for the review. I have a number of their watches with the 6R35 movement. I don't track the accuracy because i have so many watches i change them often, but i love the the feeling of winding the 6R35. Foe me, it's got a great winding experience. One of the best for the price!
Fantastic review 👍👏 your video quality and overall presentation is magnificent. That's why you have over 42k subscribers 😜 I love this watch too - I reviewed it back in May and enjoy the watch even more and never tire of looking at it. All the best.
Thanks Dave, appreciate it!
Ive been waiting for the fish review before picking one of these up. You just sealed the deal!
This was a very good review. I tried a bunch of Seiko divers on at an AD recently, and somewhat surprisingly liked that one the most. It's very tempting for sure. For what it's worth, I've heard/read in multiple places that you shouldn't regulate a Seiko movement until at least a month after you've gotten it, because they take some time to settle down (maybe break in is a better term). I'd be curious to know how yours is doing in a couple months.
Great review. It’s a design that hits a home run for me among Seiko dive watches.
These are awesome!!! Some of the best Seiko divers. Great video, new sub 😁👍
Nice new intro Guy!
Thanks buddy!
Hi Guy, I bought this watch for the same reasons you did (beautiful, classic design, subtle but powerful wrist presence), but found the screw down crown was notchy and unpredictable, and had to return it. It made me sad, but for that money (and especially because my SARB and SKX have been so awesome) I couldn't see myself settling for it. Thanks for your thoughtful review!
That a shame. I’d have gotten a replacement if you otherwise liked it.
@@JustBlueFish I tried but they told me, because the AD salesperson had checked out the watch before shipping it to me, that it was well “within spec.” And given Seiko’s QC issues, I figured I’d leave well enough alone. Turned out OK because I ended up splurging and getting my then grail watch. A happy/sad ending. BTW, are you pleased with the crown action?
My crown isn’t bad, but finding the right spot to screw it down sometimes takes a second try. Not something I’ve heard much problem with tho.
@@martinkaplan1805 I'm curious - what was your grail watch?
@@JinKee It’s the omega seamaster professional in white. The “failed” seiko was the best mistake that’s come my way (because my wife would never have let me get another diver, at least for a while)
I have the 140th anniversary of the same watch it is a beautiful piece
I love mine. Still haven't sized the bracelet but will some day.
Very nice video Guy. I have been considering getting the watch myself. I don't get why many more watches don't feature a tool less adjustable clasp. That really should be a standard feature for watches.
I’ve definitely become more of a Swiss watch guy over the years so it’s been a while since I’ve bought a Seiko but this one is really nice . I love the look and size.
Very nice great photographs 🍻
Thanks
I want to see one in person, I love the style, despite not being a Seiko fan.
I love this watch, but I would like to point out that the Dia Shield coating is pretty much useless. I wear mine on an isofrane during the summer and there’s already a ton of scratches underneath the lugs from the spring bars.
Thanks for the heads-up. 👍
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on that.
SPB143 is perfect
Wow-that marker they added to meet ISO requirements next to the date window is in the seconds track-yikes! I can’t unsee it. OCD much!?
Bought one of the original ones without the stunted marker at 3:00. It is a nice watch and I use it some, but I think I prefer my Sinn U50. Will likely keep both though.
Sinn makes some great stuff!
its very nice, i always wanted a cheaper seiko diver, like the skx but ive always hated the day date, when the mini turtle came out the other year i jumped on one, for me it covers my seiko diver fix, its a cool little watch
I haven’t seen the mini turtle in person yet. Id like to check it out tho. I’ll have to try and find one.
@@JustBlueFish it doesnt have any luxury features but the rubber strap is nice, i bought it for the design of the case and the big bold dial, the dial looks huge but because of the design of the case its footprint on my wrist is the same as my bb36, very clever
precise and right to the point. Neat review.👍
SICK!!! 🔥
You’re the one who made me do it!
Good review i agree with you about the time keeping on the 4r36 movement i have the seiko Samurai not the best on Is acracy but good enough for me ! Thanks
Great watch - I can really see why it’s hooked you! (From another boring watch enthusiast :) )
👍🏻
I think the date window should have a polished surround like the indexes have. It's a bit Seiko 5 ish in that respect but it is a superb looking dive watch.
Wearing my SPB143 on the bracelet and just had a comment "is that a Pelagos and is it titanium" lol. Also just received the Silicon strap for it from the SPB147, this could be the exit watch!
Nice can’t complain about it being mistaken for a Pelagos.
@@JustBlueFish indeed!
I have seen mixed reviews on this watch. Its great that you have a positive review on this. I am curious, may I ask if you put it on the timegrapher? If so, what is the beat error?
I put it on the timegrapher when I first got it. I don’t recall the exact beat error, but it wasn’t egregiously bad. Similar to what I typically see on a Seiko.
Thanks!
Great review and a cracking looking watch. It hits the sweet spot like a Rolex Sunbmariner of old. It has to be a strap monster and as you said, a cracking one watch collection. I have the SPB053 and it is beautifully built, but for some a touch big. I have large wrists and it suits me, but this is the first Seiko that will stop me yearning for a Pelagos or a BB58 Blue......niiiiice!
Guy, it's been a year since you posted your video, if you have the time, can you please share your current thoughts on this watch? Thank you, always appreciate your perspective.
In my experience Orient’s F6922 movement outperforms Seiko’s entry level movements
i cant unsee the misalignment on top. im saving up for thiss im trying all my best not to unlike it.
Nice watch. Looks like a Tudor Pelagos.
but much thinner
Isn't there a way to mod and put a 2824 into this :-). This watch is actually special for the way it looks.
Great video Guy, very informative with the good and could do better points articulated very well. I would seriously consider this model but at the moment I have enough dive watches to fill a small fish tank. If I didn't I would certainly consider taking a look at the Seiko SPB and may well take a look anyway. A great point on the consistency of the movement accuracy, it's almost impossible to regulate if a movement drifts +- seconds different days but I'd guess that as long as it's consistently close to accurate either way over time that should be good enough for most of us. Thanks again for the review.
Haha, enough to fill a fish tank. There’s always room for one more?
@@JustBlueFish I'm sure I've used this formula from someone else before, The ideal watch collection = N+1 where N is the current number of watches in the collection. Maybe I need a bigger fish tank.
No better recommendation than the fact that you actually bought it for yourself. 🙂
Guy, does it make you think, Do I really need a Submariner priced at nearly 10 times the price?
Need? Nah probably not. But watch collectors aren’t a rational bunch are we? When did “need” ever factor into this haha!
@@JustBlueFish great explanation 👍
Guy, for a one watch collection; this or a Sinn 556i? I know, two different styles and the Sinn is a couple hundred more but if you had to choose just one?
Hope you’ll take a moment to share your thoughts.
I like the 556 and if I’m being practical that makes more sense. However I just tend to prefer divers so for me it would be the SPB143.
Get the Sinn. Always go with quality.
I've been looking at the 556 for over a year. It's such a gorgeous watxh that's tough as nails and is 200m water resistance. It is the perfect every day watch that will last a lifetime. Plus the sinn will be more accurate. I'd suggest the H link bracelet because the other metal bracelet doesn't have micro adjusts. If I had $1500 for an everyday watch, I would have to choose sinn. This is coming from a guy who currently owns 2 seikos and 0 sinn watches. However, thar seiko diver is gorgeous
That watch is beautiful, but damn that movement.
very nice love it... what would put me off would be the accuracy also for that price. think i would get a Christopher ward ....... cheers
CW make some nice watches, definitely worth a look.
Yeah, the white/ blue bezel is very tempting....about 700 sterling......
What are your thoughts on the spb147 I prefer that colour way
I like it, but if I recall correctly, it comes on a strap? I like my divers on a bracelet, but the color is cool.
@@JustBlueFish yes just on the rubber strap, I know what you mean
I am sure that the Seikophiles will jump all over this. At that price, there are several other watches that I would prefer.
Definitely other options out there for the money. But I’m pretty happy with this one.
That movement accuracy needs to be better than what you're experiencing. I'd have that properly regulated.
I have Murphy38.
15.5cm around the wrist and 5cm wide.
Is spb143 a good choice for me?
Fantastic review! Wish that bezel was ceramic but I know virtually no one agrees with me. But hey, amazing watch nonetheless.
Sorry I don't agree with you that the bezel should be ceramic
I like the brushed steel. A matte ceramic would work too, just nothing glossy.
@@JustBlueFish That would be awesome. I just wish I had a ceramic bezel watch in my collection, but the ones I would want are all Rolex and so astronomical in price. Would love to know/have some good ceramic options in the $500-1500 range.
good review but i thought you had finished with seiko
They always find a way to pull you back!
What is the service intervals suggest by Seiko?
Love it 😍
Damn just now noticed that my spb143 doesn’t have lume at the date window. Anyone know what’s up with that?
Seiko changed it to having a lume plot at 3 so it would meet ISO standards for diving.
It's great, but I can't get over no signed crown?! Why, Seiko?
Awesome piece though. 'Grats 🙌
Not sure encouraging Seiko to increase prices further for what should already be more than standard on a watch at this price makes sense. Surely we should be expecting more? 🤔
Great review Guy!!! Thoughts…..Seiko Spb143 vs Oris Aquis??? Your opinion everyone.
IMO the Oris is “flashy” compared to the subdued styling and color of the Seiko.
I've got an Aquis & they are quite blingy as the bracelet is partly polished. The SPB 143 is a vintage re issue whereas the Oris is a more modern slightly brutal design. Personally I prefer the design of the Seiko, just wish it had a better movement!
Oris is a great watch, but hard to compare these two. Maybe the Oris Diver 65 would be a better comparison since they are more similar. But, that said, I think the Aquis might be the technically “better” watch, and it should be it costs more. But I like the Seiko style better.
@@JustBlueFish Guy I agree with you. Oris makes outstanding tool watches that borders the edge of the luxury price tier, but the style, looks, smaller case, lower price and most of all versatility gives these new Seiko SPB models a very sharp edge over many of the Swiss dive offerings today!!!! Great review again!!! 👌
@@Andrew.W75 Yes I agree, the Aquis does have a bling luxury appeal to it but these Seiko SPBs are overall are some of Seiko’s best divers IMO.
It’s very nice, but the finishing around that punched out rather than framed date window seems a bit rough. Especially for the money. Also that 6R35 meh movement is available in Seiko’s half the price of this. It’s just not a value proposition IMO.
Hi guy! I've recently acquired the tudor bb36 (blue). What are your thoughts when it comes to comparing these 2 watches? My wrist is only at 6.5-6.6~ inches so the spb143 wears quite big for me🤣.
Hope to hear from you soon.
David
For me it’s the 149!
What about the lume pip at 3 o'clock? I this ruined an otherwise perfect dial...I had one of these 2021 models and sent it back...picked up a used one from late 2020, which didn't have the lume pip.
I believe the ISO standard changed so all the hour markers had to be lumed giving Seiko no choice but to have a marker at 3
@@Andrew.W75 I know but Seiko could have left it like it was and skip Iso certification...these watches are used 98 % by non divers anyway.
@@ronpower7790 Not really they would have had to remove divers200m from the dial & a lot of people would have complained about it not being ISO certified even though they'd never dive with it!
@@Andrew.W75 Imho everything's better than this wart ahm lume pip at the 3...probably Im just fixated on that detail haha but it really bugged me when I had the later version.
Doesn’t bother me. The date window already throws the balance off, on any watch with a date.
A not aligned bezel Is not acceptable at this price point, nonetheless It Is a beatiful piece.
was your lume pip off to the left of 12?
I just had it off a click when I filmed accidentally.
@@JustBlueFish so does it align perfectly? I have the SPB149 and it’s just a whisker off to the left.
@@magnuman008 It's pretty close. Maybe a hair off to the left as well on mine but not as bad as the video. In the video it's just not clicked in place.
Would you prefer the 149 over the 143?
Haven’t seen the 149 in person so hard to say. But it does look cool.
I have one of these (spb297) everything's great except for the interior metal casing finishing between the lugs. It is like they forgot to finish it. Im annoyed by it and never put it on a strap because of it.
Mine is the same its like the diashield coating not done properly. I wonder if the editions that come on straps are finished better than bracelet versions.
@daveLin104 yeah sorry to hear. Yes, absolutely correct, it is as if the diashield was applied haphazardly. I've heard so much about seiko mid tier watches coming up on omega and tag and tudor etc and so I bought a couple and have been disappointed thoroughly w their ability to finish and pay attention to details. I'm a details man, i prefer a bland watch but finished high quality and superb fit finish and proportion, over a complex interesting watch but you can see they cut corners in all the details. And seiko doesn't fit me. I'm selling them off for that. I'll stick to my tag carrera and seamaster.
@bryanryan4504 thanks for the reply you are correct in what you are saying its like the diashield lazily applied because not immediately seen. Seiko should know most swap straps etc they even put drilled lugs on for this reason. Its so annoying though because the designs are so good in my opinion I want Citizen quality with Seiko designs. I keep looking at Tag I think they get too much bashing. I like the aquaracer and fancy the 200 quartz solar but the price is so steep and in shop windows they have so much hand backlash on the quartz and they don't hit the markers 😬 do you like the Tag ?
@daveLin104 I only like a few watches from tag my favorite watch I have WAR201E.BA0723 it is the best looking gada watch imo and I only need that if I had to take one with me to an island. It is finished so beautifully and the proportions are perfect for me. The look is amazing. I wear it to everything from going out, to work, to party on Las Vegas strip. The price most don't like bc they constantly compare it to other brands. It's like a double standard; they find the price range unacceptable for tag but for midtier seiko, oris, longines, and the like, they don't say anything. Why? I dunno. Tag is my brand. I paid a little over 2000 dollars for my carrera brand new and it is the best money I have spent more than anything else including tudor or omega.
@bryanryan4504 just looked that Tag reference up looks gorgeous 😍 You are correct most watch snobs bash tag now with most not even having any experience of owning one etc. I do love the brand and herritage. I just wished the quartz version the hand hit the markers like my old casios and citizens .......
At the same price point, I'd throw the Marine Master 200 (particularly the green faced model) into the conversation. Loads of character, a quality item and real presence on the wrist to boot. 140th Limited Edition too.
It is a great watch with powerful specs, but accuracy in my is quite awful. I am loosing about a minute or two weekly.
Oh, I also want to add that I agree with your thoughts on this being a classic. I definitely consider it a modern classic. It's both vintage inspired, yet modern. That is my ideal combination. While I am not opposed to "fauxtina," there are quite a few watches I think would be spectacularly modern with regular lume. The new 2021 Omega Seamaster 300 is one example that would look great with regular lume, and maybe even more of a Sub competitor.
Hi @justbluefishwatchreviews amazing review and a great looking watch. I got my khaki field Auto based on your review and love it, also have a 38mm mechanical as well now. How does this compare to your Khaki field auto and mechanical donyou still wear them ?
I do still have the Auto, but I don't have the mechanical anymore. I tend to wear divers more often than any other type of watch so this Seiko gets a lot more wrist time. But I really like them both a lot.
@@JustBlueFish Hi just wondering how you are getting on with the SPB143 do you still own it ? Does it get a lot of wrist time or has something replaced it ? Thanks
@@daveLin104 I sold almost all of my watches over the last few months, so I don't have this one anymore. It's still probably my all time favorite Seiko Diver but, I needed to raise some money so most of my collection had to go.
@@JustBlueFish oh no sorry to hear you have sold most of your watches :( thought this was a keeper for you. I hope you still have the Hamilton 38mmm auto. Are you downsizing to make collection more minimal?
Is there a reason to buy this SPB143 if you still own a Sub? This and a Sub are too smiliar watches I think. Wouldn't wear this Seiko very often.
It’s a nice daily if you don’t want to bang up the Rolex. It’s my “work” watch.
@@elliottk2518 I don't mind bang up the 114060. It's durable enough for my daily usage.
Sure there’s a reason, I like them both!
I've tried several times to get one because I do love it a lot. Unfortunately I didn't have good luck to find a nice example, so in the end I just gave up.
Never give up, never surrender!
Very good and intelligent review. The SPB143 touches many boxes. However, the movement is suspect. For that kind of money, you are i LLonhines hydro quest territory. I would genuinely be bothered by an inconsistent movement and that happens on the SR35.
My SPB143 loses almost a minute per day. Suggestions? Will a regulation fix this?
Regulating will help for sure, but it might need to be serviced if it’s losing that much time. I’ve done a video in the past on how to regulate a Seiko movement. It’s pretty easy, if you want to buy a timegrapher. Otherwise, find a local watch maker to do it for you, or contact Seiko customer service. Losing a minute per day is pretty extreme and would most likely be fixed under warranty.
@@JustBlueFish thank you!
I prefer the first gen dial
Nice, no ceramic insert at a $1000!?
I don’t mind I like the look of the brushed steel
Definitely charge a few hundred dollars more for a $30 clasp improvement.
Thanks for watching!
How to tell if a Seiko is genuine or replica?
- the bezel or chapter ring on the genuine Seiko are not aligned...
I love the watch and I love the brand. But I hate their QC
I have the same model💯👏👌👍⌚️
Not sure it's as nice as the 051. The indices really pop on the 051 and the bezel is thinner. The bracelet is better too. This model is smaller at 40.5mm so would appeal to more users, and the higher power reserve. The 143 is also a few hundred more than the 051 was new, so more expensive. It's basically arguable which is the better watch. What I can say is both are beautiful, and great quality, questioning why you would spend 7x more for a sub etc.
I've got dearer watches than my 051, but it's still my go to watch. Had mine over 3 years and it still looks mint. Glad your enjoying it guy.
I prefer the look and design on this over the 051 but it’s subjective, and both are nice.
@@JustBlueFish , got a chance to get the sla043, with the blue seconds hand, but I really want the sla017 , but they are hard to find. Would you say they are worth the premium over the more reasonable priced spb ? I've not actually seen one in the flesh. Thanks
I had the SPB213. Got rid of it for exactly the reason you mentioned about the inconsistent time keeping. In fact, I’m done with Seiko until that ceases to be a problem. $1200 for a watch that loses 15 seconds a day is a serious indictment on this crappy company
Yep, that's Seiko too a T. Most of the public see the Asian assembled stock, even when the dial states "Japan" that only means the actual movement so FYI, Seiko will only assemble within their territories if a watch will sell for over $850 US. So the SPB143j is well in that range. Then it's still a throw of the dice hoping the coffee machine didn't go on the blink or a worker was falling asleep from exhaustion. This can happen in the so called Swiss assembly plants as well. They too get as much Asian /China components they can lay their hands on, same rule only 50% Swiss and that only means the movement in 14 of the top 20 makers, Swatch etc. The SPB143j & SPB207j I have are okay, did take the online factory 3 year cover, ya never know with a Seiko. :)