If people think the 42mm case is large, go try it on and you will be blown away by how small this watch wears. The MM200 case is just magic and complicated design that Seiko just gets right.
I was wearing my Aqua Terra 41 golf (white dial) when I tried this in Seiko Boutique. I was blown away by how small it wears; how slim it looked like and how comfortable the bracelet is. My Aqua Terra suddenly became slightly larger and thicker to look at when I compared both.
Finally gotten my hand on this diver, waited for months for its release and now its finally on my wrist. Very well made, hands set polishing, indices and the green dial and bezel is just the perfect color tone . The bezel turn action while a bit soft is rather satisfying with enough feedback and it aligns perfectly.
Looks professional yet still has that tool watch vibe. Great review. Seiko will always has it, even tho they get criticize a lot because of the higher price. I'd rather have the name and reliability than buying cheaper alternative. 👍
I just tried it on and it’s pretty much love at first sight. I don’t have a GMT and don’t travel all that much. This fits the budget and the need. The finishing is next level and that green is perfect
I own 2 watches,a rolex gmt and a seiko. I honestly love wearing the seiko as much as my rolex. Honestly, if I had to make a decision on owning one watch, only I think a Seiko would probably be the choice!
There is no substitute for the watch you want. I like Seiko for Seiko, regardless of the price. Plus my AD takes care of me, I have never paid MSRP. I stick to the classic designs, marine master, willard, a few others. That’s a good technique for many brands.
I recently purchased the solar version SFK003 of this watch as a replacement for my "luxury" watch and I am extremely pleased with it. Par usual for Seiko, pulling way above its weight.
I was a Swiss Diver buyer for years, until I bought my first SKX in the 1990s. Seiko's cases just have so much uniqueness and comfortable wearability. When I would choose my SKX over my Omega I began to realise that I'd been converted. There's something organic about the form of the curved cushion cases that you just don;t get with other watches. Often copied and never exceeded. I think the Uemura is next on my list. 8 series movement, a 6015 case with the comfort and presence of that design... and the normies haven't got a clue what you are wearing, which is a major plus for me (as is the 'don't worry dear, it wasn't THAT expensive, it is just a Seiko after all!' 😁
Swatch Group introduced "traveller" GMTS for around £1000 in Certina, and Tissot watches as well as Mido that you mentioned. They considerably undercut the Tudor Pepsi "traveller" which itself was a ground breaker in price at that time. Now Citizen Group has introduced the Miyota 9075 "traveller" GMT movement. It's early days but watches with this movement will soon be widely available for around £500. The Seiko looks well made but at £1400 for an office GMT I feel its time is already past.
Awesome well researched review. Very interesting ISO Diver rating with GMT now that’s cool. IMO ceramic bezel upgrade with new in-house 3 day calibre make this good value I think. Love the green colour way too. Seiko quality speaks for itself it seems to me…
I bought one 24 hours ago. Black. I am far more accustomed to Grand Seiko, and for finish, and style, this is respectively equal, and superior. The latter because I don’t know of a GS with a bracelet this attractive, especially in regards to its more compact and ideal dimensions, nor do GS have a diver of this lovely size (I’m waiting for them to do a realistically sized diver like this). Speaking of size, this Seiko looks and wears like a 40mm watch, which I prefer to any larger size. The finish of every aspect is not only objectively high end (seemingly similar to and in some ways better than a Submariner) but also is remarkable given that it’s a fifth the price of a sub and half the price of any Tudor “equivalent” such as Black Bay 58. And I prefer the bracelet to both Rolex oyster and Tudor’s oddly riveted equivalent. I also find the very masculine side and rear views very satisfying, and more attractive than said Sub and Tudor. The only bummers for me are that it’s lacking the snob value that gives an extra sense of pride, and more importantly, I’m really unimpressed with the accuracy rating. I feel that these are the only prices I’ve paid for the low price versus GS, Rolex or Tudor near equivalents.
I agree. At first I enjoyed the new format…but I miss the incredible macro shots and cheeky humor without any of the focus on the influencer. Still a top three watch channel in my opinion. I also enjoy many others but notably TGV, and YourTerrific. Watchbox is up there along with the likes of Adrian Barker and Osian (sorry spelling). Anyway, not sure anyone cares my opinion, but I rambled on anyway. Cheers
Glad you mentioned the finishing. I was thinking exactly the same. I just wish Seiko would put a little more investment in their bracelets!!! If these said "Swiss Made", the prospect of spending £1400 wouldn't be an issue for many I think, but for the Seiko fans, I think they'll be smiling.
I've been buying Seiko watches for years - the two essential aspects to remember is 1/ the boxes are crap 2/budget for a quality AM bracelet. I don't mind either for an SKX or a Turtle but when spending in excess of £1200 I would prefer a half decent bracelet when you consider what Chris Ward, Oris and NHT are able to peddle. The boxes are a bit of a cliche now - but I really don't care that much and it saves a lot of space not having to store some flippin wooden box with an encyclopedia of paper you would never ever read.
@@HarryFlashmanVC As an engineer looking at the issue, a good bracelet shouldn't cost much-if any- more than a poor bracelet. It's down to design. Seiko have a lot of brand loyalty but if they keep bumping up the prices without fixing some of these issues, people will look elsewhere.
At the price point there is really nothing close in terms of finishing. We will have to wait and see the quality of the new movement, although early reviews are very promising. Seiko has cleverly used its capability of high class finishing and, although a great bracelet, saved a little on the bracelet and movement (no 28k 6R64) to get evening under £2k. I think it a good decision and they key thing is this is absolutely beautiful. Some will pay an extra £1000 for an 8L derived movement, but most will probably be happy with this package.
Sorry, but a GMT has not been absent from the Seiko collection as long as you are saying here. Even before the introduction of the NH34 in the Seiko 5 line the Presage Sharp Edge Series had a GMT with the SPB217J1 and others in that range. All housing the caliber 6R64. Also
@@darkoflight4938 Same here--love that watch. Strange that the Presage GMT line isn't given at least a mention since, at around $1000, it sits right between the Seiko 5 GMT and this new release, price-wise.
Hey iv always loved the content on this channel and really enjoyed how the content was focused on the watch, paired with you narration every video told a complete story and the visual focus on the watch let me be immersed in said story. While I really like that we can see the individual behind the work in the podcast series and on AMW channel. I personally feel that the old style was better and overall more immersive
Yes, I agree. The videos with the blue backgrounds, with Tom &co, are completely fine with the new format. But i agree 100% that these videos are much better with the talking hands.
I think this is a beautiful watch. I do wish there was a bit high accuracy committed to by Seiko, as mentioned. The Powermatic movements certainly run much tighter tolerances. Good call out on the Mido comparison. I thought of that one and its offering of a traveler GMT movement. I'm not surprised that the Seiko is a bit better finished, but I've not gotten to handle any Midos (not common in the U.S.). I love that this is a fully diver rated watch, but a traveler GMT movement would make more sense with the thought being that somebody is traveling to some far away island for a bit of diving. Other than that and the awkward date, I have no complaints. I really like this release and can't wait to get up to my AD to get one on wrist.
I’ve got no idea why Seiko have come out with such outlandish numbers because this watch’s accuracy is excellent. I know the internet is alive with BS and you’ll probably be wondering how I can make such a statement seeing that officially it only launched today or yesterday but you’ll just have to take my word for it that the piece I know of has only lost two or three seconds in a week.
@@charliezobel511 It's probably just to keep warranty claims down. I have a 3-1/2yo 6R15 Alpinist keeping +3 secs/day, while my 3yo King Turtle 4R36 is running a sluggish -20 secs/day.
@@RedwoodAggie yeah it’s definitely about warranty claims, although I’ll be interested to see how accurate it is a couple of years down the line. I’ve had my fair share watches over the years and I found my Chronomat B01 to be the most accurate, blimey it was like of a quartz standard 😯 it stayed rock solid on time regardless of if I wore it or left it in the winder for days on end!
This channel has always had impeccable videography but I'm really impressed with how things have changed recently, with the 'mini podcast' style episodes showing the people behind the voices and now with this video, where Andrew is talking to us with his mouth and not his hands - it's a surprising change but a refreshing one. I'd like to see some kind of differentiation between both styles of video but that's just me being picky. Keep it up team, you're going from strength to strength ❤️
This is precisely the review I was looking for particularly from your channel. I’ve been looking at this watch for the last few months online, and I am interested to see your take on it.
This is a handsome piece, and the SPB385 limited edition with its ice-blue dial is a stunner. However it is not the first Prospex GMT. I just recently acquired the SFK001J1 Prospex Sea Sumo. It’s a solar quartz and is a traveller’s GMT with a quickset hour hand and a sapphire crystal. It is available in the low $600 range gray market. The bezel, chapter ring and seconds hand on mine all line up perfectly and so far it has been dead accurate. Yes, it is a quartz, but I am not a mechanical snob. Check it out!
People, this watch has it all: perfect size, finishing high level, ceramic bezel, gmt mvt with 70h pr, adjustable bracelet, 200M wr. And all for a very reasonable price (including discounts easily obtainable with seiko). No competition at this price point.
Given the complications and finish, iIcan see the $1,400 price. However with a +\- range of 15-25 seconds PER DAY, I will pass. Totally unacceptable for a modern watch. Thanks Andrew for highlighting this specification.
I need this, the case looks amazing - MM200 case is easily one of Seiko’s best. Caller GMT is good for me, I rarely travel abroad so a flyer GMT just makes things less convenient
Looks like my Seiko "Sumo" I have in dark blue I paid about 500€ but indeed the finishing looks way better than the one I have with aluminum bezel and non saphire glass
I bought a SEIKO 5 GMT a year ago. If I wind it completely and wear it constantly (24 hours a day) it will run out of power after 36 hours always when I'm in bed at around 2AM. I can see the rotor moving. I went back to the dealer I bought it from and they tested it for 2 days. They then gave me the 'that's normal'.line. I sent it to SEIKO warranty center and received it back with no explanation. It exhibited the same behavior after SEIKO returned it. I'm thoroughly disappointed. I had a Bulova automatic in the mid 70s and never had to wind it. I would put it on the night stand when I went to sleep. I was more sedentary then than now. Recommendations, suggestions and advice requested.
I loved your thorough review. However, there is 1 negative for me: The price. $1,800 USD??? For that price the bracelet should be better. No micro adjustment? The accuracy should be better at that price.
This is a $1500, don't know why he is saying it's 1800. Maybe UK taxes? Anyway, Seiko is just charging the Seiko fans because the Seiko GMT in the video is based on the 1968 model MarineMaster. I personally think that the Marine Master case design is the best in the world for a diver's watch.
I want this piece but I also own the sla057. Which was around 4500$ 😬. Something about grand Seiko finished it. If I got this and the finishing looked to be the same I don’t think I’d mentally recover
I would consider this Tool watch perfection! I wish more manufacturers made this type of design, a normal dive watch bezel, with an internal GMT ring and GMT hand. Glad to see someone finally made this, without an obnoxious design. (Citizen are you listening?) I wish Rolex would do this. I think they did many years ago, but those are hard to find. Rolex Sea-Dweller GMT! Am I the only one that would buy it? Can we get it with spring drive? I like more accurate watches. Thank you for this video.
@@jpdemer5 True, and I do know about them. I have only seen the spring drive GMT with a GMT 24 hour bezel. Is there one with a 60 minute dive Bezel that I do not know about? It has more utility, in my opinion. I would prefer the prospex pricing. They make a Prospex spring drive dive watch. I've kept my eye out for those. They are on the wish list, but would get bumped by this concept, if I found it.
I recently purchased a Mido Oceanstar GMT, prior to the launch of this Seiko GMT. Looking at price comparison, I believe that Oceanstar GMT is of better value for money. I have no complain with Mido's.
It's very nice on the wrist with superlative finishing but is it too expensive ? I don't know. Maybe it isn't... I already have the MM200 Reduced, so should I get this too ?
Love my Seiko divers. I’ll be buying one of these but not at retail. I’ll either wait for sales or buy 2nd hand. That movement is not great. I have other divers with the same non GMT movement. Some are almost spot on and others are out by minutes a day. They obviously know it won’t affect sales. Overall a stunning timepiece and especially as it looks like a thinner MM300, the favourite modern Seiko I own.
I am loving these new reviews. Seems so long ago from the first videos in like 2018, and now we get to see both Tom and Andrew? I'm so happy for y'all. Big ups and continued blessings.
They are not the bargain king any longer. But their watches are so nice to wear. As far as the GMT is concerned, I'll leave that opinion to those who feel they need a GMT.
Watching this space to see what the the accuracy runout is for owners. Since this movement piggybacks the 6R35 base I am hesitant to spend a dollar on a watch that needs a service and regulation right out of the gate. Yes I know, everyone knows a guy who knowns a guy who has one that runs within COSC, but the ratio of people who know someone with one that looses and gains minutes in the same week is astounding.
The 6R35 movement is both poorly regulated at the factory and it has absolutely crazy positional variance. Charging this much for a movement based on the 6R35 is not a good deal.
I thought this was a variant of the 6R64 flyer GMT released earlier but with a longer power reserve and lower beat rate. However, it's a caller GMT instead.
4:41 you mention which watches from Seiko had a GMT function. You forgot to mention the gmt Alpinist SBCJ021 and the kinetic divers such as the SUN019 and the SUN024, the latter of which i own as a holiday beater
While I appreciate you rightfully giving the nod to the Glycine Airman, I don't quite understand this notion that Seiko didn't have a proper and affordable GMT until this movement's release. They released the Sharp Edge GMT with a flyer GMT movement around Januari 2021. And before that, they've had a line of GMT's of Grand Seiko for donkey's years, but in August 2018 the 9F quartz flyer GMT was added to that line up. Initially they retailed for 2500 bucks, but over the last five years they've crept up in price somewhat, but at 3200 they are still less than twice the price of this diver's version. Granted, the 500 buck price bracket was unheard of, but the 1300 price bracket has been around for quite a while now. That said, the competition is much wider than you make it sound. I have a Baltic Aquascaphe GMT, then there is Yema, you have Lorier, and last but not least I own a Farer Lander IV as well, and Farer makes some absolutely cracking little GMT watches, all with 100m WR at a minimum.
Hi Andrew, I beloeve the biggest problem for this Prospex GMT model is the Longines Zulu time. If it would be priced around €850,- to €1200,- it would make more sense. Cheers from Vienna 😉
I've got the Seiko 5 GMT. A great watch Seems pointless to me to spend more than three times the price of that on something with no extra functionality. I'd consider a trade up if they'd made it a proper travellers gmt with adjustable hour hand. I want more than just better finishing.
It really amaze me at over 1k Seiko still does not sign the crown? Impressive power reserve at a cost of low beat movement? 21.6 instead of the standard 28.8?
I saw this at Seiko boutique. It’s stunning. But it’s too “bling” for me and the movement tolerances is disappointing. Of course I wish I had 1,800 to spend on a watch.
I kept tripping over your pauses in narration! You were off your regular fabulous fluid flow...I will have to go back, listen again, and actually hear about the watch 😉
The Ocean Star GMT special edition is a better value in my opinion. Ocean Star is a true/travelers GMT, plus they give you a red, white, and blue Strap in addition to the bracelet. That strap really makes that watch pop. I love my Seikos though. Update: I bought the black dial version. I love this watch. I put a black rubber strap on it ( saw it on RUclips), which IMO makes the watch pop. Can’t go wrong with this combo.
I think Seiko are taking the mickey a bit here. Sure enough, the case finishing is nice but it's not beyond what can be expected at the price. You say almost Grand Seiko levels, but if it was GS level, it would be a GS watch. If you hold out just a little longer, you'll be able to get the Longines Spirit Zulu Time, which has a chronometer certified Flyer GMT movement inside, which while not strictly in-house, is very much in-group, and a similar level finishing including the ceramic bezel and sapphire crystal. I think coming into these price ranges on their higher end Prospex and Presage models with 6R movements, they really should consider offering some sort of accuracy certification. Wouldn't necessarily have to be COSC or METAS, they could come up with their own "Seiko Performance Guarantee". Also Andrew, hate to be that guy but Seiko have had other GMTs prior to last year's SSK00X collection in the 5 line. The sharp edge GMTs have been knocking around a few years now with what I believe is a not too dissimilar movement, and recently there's been the addition of a new Prospex GMT, this time a flyer GMT built into a solar quartz movement.
Am I right in thinking this looks somewhere between an MM200 and an MM300? The 200 is about 1100 quid and a 300 around £2800. This looks closest to the 300 to me. I once handled one and though a tad heavy I thought it looked and felt a top quality item. Taking this into account it looks pretty smart for it's money... 🤔
This is the same size as the 200. 42mm variant with exactly same dimensions and just 0.4mm extra thickness. The 300 is beast cause it is made for saturation diving. milled solid unibody case and the watch is just spec monster for professionals.
@@Nightfury0695 Thanks for that. I actually own an MM200, which is a great little watch that wouldn't put anyone off. Beautiful finish and lots of character.
Looks like a great piece for the money, dial colour and case finishing, movement not so but sometimes you win the Seiko lottery for accuracy - Will be even more interesting to see when the aftermarket bracelet players i.e strapcode and uncle get their hands on it.
Yeah I'd say Orient and some of the micro-brands are better value watches - especially since Seiko quickly sells their movements to other brands (including Aliexpress brands) including the new NH34. Also since Seiko refuses to address some of their spec and QC issues (pressed clasps, usually mineral crystal, and misaligned bezels) all while significantly bumping up their prices I think this bumps them from the best value brand.
Orient will often match with on-paper specs, but their finishing is *way* worse across the price points. Also, I don't know if Orient has a True GMT watch at the moment.
I only found out about this watch a few days previous, so I'm seriously glad you put this video together in such a timely fashion. Yes, I like it a lot. Yes, I think it's worth the asking price. But no, I couldn't stretch to it (not now, anyways), so I'm thrilled about the Seiko 5 Sports GMT I bought last week. If I suddenly hit some kind of windfall, *maybe* I'd move to this one, but I'm happy with my 5.
Also WF, have you considered doing a piece on the Radium Girls? It's such an important piece of watch history and labor rights history, and i feel like you guys could have a unique angle on it
How can Seiko justify that pricing when San Martin already have NH34 Watches with better finishing than a Seiko Prospex (based on my experience of Prospex) for ~£300, likely with more options to come?
I hate 4 o'clock crown, I can see how it may be more comfortable, but aesthetically I just don't like it. Got MIDO Ocean Star GMT. Essentially same specs - dive bezel, GMT, 80 hours, 200 meters, but cheaper and looks better.
We know you want more watches…. click here: linktr.ee/watchfinder
If people think the 42mm case is large, go try it on and you will be blown away by how small this watch wears. The MM200 case is just magic and complicated design that Seiko just gets right.
My wrist is 16cm... Would take your bet.
It wears real small 100%
Is it the same case as the spb185 or is this one thicker?
@@Altanabstick Same case as 185, just 0.4mm thicker due to the GMT movement. This comes down to 12.9mm vs 12.5 thick on the standard MM200
@@Nightfury0695 Shame! Love that case, but wouldn't want it any thicker under my office outfit
I was wearing my Aqua Terra 41 golf (white dial) when I tried this in Seiko Boutique. I was blown away by how small it wears; how slim it looked like and how comfortable the bracelet is. My Aqua Terra suddenly became slightly larger and thicker to look at when I compared both.
Sometimes, Seiko watches are a magic
Finally gotten my hand on this diver, waited for months for its release and now its finally on my wrist. Very well made, hands set polishing, indices and the green dial and bezel is just the perfect color tone . The bezel turn action while a bit soft is rather satisfying with enough feedback and it aligns perfectly.
How well is it keeping time?
Perfectly aligned? You mist have gotten a fake
@@lockhandelmines at +2 seconds a day
How is the bracelet?
@@edvincentiiialbano8890 feels cheap.
Looks professional yet still has that tool watch vibe. Great review. Seiko will always has it, even tho they get criticize a lot because of the higher price. I'd rather have the name and reliability than buying cheaper alternative. 👍
I just tried it on and it’s pretty much love at first sight. I don’t have a GMT and don’t travel all that much. This fits the budget and the need. The finishing is next level and that green is perfect
I own 2 watches,a rolex gmt and a seiko. I honestly love wearing the seiko as much as my rolex. Honestly, if I had to make a decision on owning one watch, only I think a Seiko would probably be the choice!
I feel the same way about my casio's. Love the one nice mechanical watch I have but probably had to have one it would be my $20 Casio worldtimer
There is no substitute for the watch you want. I like Seiko for Seiko, regardless of the price. Plus my AD takes care of me, I have never paid MSRP. I stick to the classic designs, marine master, willard, a few others. That’s a good technique for many brands.
I recently purchased the solar version SFK003 of this watch as a replacement for my "luxury" watch and I am extremely pleased with it. Par usual for Seiko, pulling way above its weight.
I was a Swiss Diver buyer for years, until I bought my first SKX in the 1990s. Seiko's cases just have so much uniqueness and comfortable wearability. When I would choose my SKX over my Omega I began to realise that I'd been converted. There's something organic about the form of the curved cushion cases that you just don;t get with other watches. Often copied and never exceeded. I think the Uemura is next on my list. 8 series movement, a 6015 case with the comfort and presence of that design... and the normies haven't got a clue what you are wearing, which is a major plus for me (as is the 'don't worry dear, it wasn't THAT expensive, it is just a Seiko after all!' 😁
Swatch Group introduced "traveller" GMTS for around £1000 in Certina, and Tissot watches as well as Mido that you mentioned. They considerably undercut the Tudor Pepsi "traveller" which itself was a ground breaker in price at that time. Now Citizen Group has introduced the Miyota 9075 "traveller" GMT movement. It's early days but watches with this movement will soon be widely available for around £500. The Seiko looks well made but at £1400 for an office GMT I feel its time is already past.
Watch prices are to do with the finishing and movement. This is clearly finished better then any tissot or certina. It’s time is just beginning
@@haroldmiller7672 Office GMTs are finished.
Half the price and I would be interested.
@@BAF605 what is Office GMT?
@@redsox7897 ruclips.net/video/8iWRJaueu-M/видео.html Marc explains all here.
Awesome well researched review. Very interesting ISO Diver rating with GMT now that’s cool. IMO ceramic bezel upgrade with new in-house 3 day calibre make this good value I think. Love the green colour way too. Seiko quality speaks for itself it seems to me…
I bought one 24 hours ago. Black. I am far more accustomed to Grand Seiko, and for finish, and style, this is respectively equal, and superior. The latter because I don’t know of a GS with a bracelet this attractive, especially in regards to its more compact and ideal dimensions, nor do GS have a diver of this lovely size (I’m waiting for them to do a realistically sized diver like this). Speaking of size, this Seiko looks and wears like a 40mm watch, which I prefer to any larger size. The finish of every aspect is not only objectively high end (seemingly similar to and in some ways better than a Submariner) but also is remarkable given that it’s a fifth the price of a sub and half the price of any Tudor “equivalent” such as Black Bay 58. And I prefer the bracelet to both Rolex oyster and Tudor’s oddly riveted equivalent. I also find the very masculine side and rear views very satisfying, and more attractive than said Sub and Tudor. The only bummers for me are that it’s lacking the snob value that gives an extra sense of pride, and more importantly, I’m really unimpressed with the accuracy rating. I feel that these are the only prices I’ve paid for the low price versus GS, Rolex or Tudor near equivalents.
Sorry to repeat, how is the bracelet?
I preferred the OG 'talking hand' / old microphones vids. (No offence)
You calling him ugly? Lmao
I agree. At first I enjoyed the new format…but I miss the incredible macro shots and cheeky humor without any of the focus on the influencer. Still a top three watch channel in my opinion. I also enjoy many others but notably TGV, and YourTerrific. Watchbox is up there along with the likes of Adrian Barker and Osian (sorry spelling). Anyway, not sure anyone cares my opinion, but I rambled on anyway. Cheers
Totally agree.. I think the quality of the audio deprecated once they started to have him on video
Glad you mentioned the finishing. I was thinking exactly the same. I just wish Seiko would put a little more investment in their bracelets!!!
If these said "Swiss Made", the prospect of spending £1400 wouldn't be an issue for many I think, but for the Seiko fans, I think they'll be smiling.
People buying it may find it so worthy as the bracelet quality is so close to grand seiko which is triple the price. Interesting watch.
I've been buying Seiko watches for years - the two essential aspects to remember is 1/ the boxes are crap 2/budget for a quality AM bracelet. I don't mind either for an SKX or a Turtle but when spending in excess of £1200 I would prefer a half decent bracelet when you consider what Chris Ward, Oris and NHT are able to peddle. The boxes are a bit of a cliche now - but I really don't care that much and it saves a lot of space not having to store some flippin wooden box with an encyclopedia of paper you would never ever read.
@@HarryFlashmanVC As an engineer looking at the issue, a good bracelet shouldn't cost much-if any- more than a poor bracelet. It's down to design. Seiko have a lot of brand loyalty but if they keep bumping up the prices without fixing some of these issues, people will look elsewhere.
Looks great...with a solid resemblance to a Marinemaster 300. Incidentally, the SBEJ001 and 003 came out earlier, in 2018, as Prospex GMT's.
Honestly, I think the Christopher Ward GMTs (C65 Aquitaine, C63 Sealander, and C60 Anthropocene) are not just a better, they're less expensive.
They are great, but even though it sounds silly, I just hate the name of the brand lol
Agreed. The CW logo is awful too…
At the price point there is really nothing close in terms of finishing. We will have to wait and see the quality of the new movement, although early reviews are very promising. Seiko has cleverly used its capability of high class finishing and, although a great bracelet, saved a little on the bracelet and movement (no 28k 6R64) to get evening under £2k. I think it a good decision and they key thing is this is absolutely beautiful. Some will pay an extra £1000 for an 8L derived movement, but most will probably be happy with this package.
If they can improve the clasp and diver extension... a lot of money, but, I'm still waiting for a full blue, this is so damn good looking
Isn't it patented?
Wish they could have being milled. The Seiko's do look a bit outdated
Sorry, but a GMT has not been absent from the Seiko collection as long as you are saying here. Even before the introduction of the NH34 in the Seiko 5 line the Presage Sharp Edge Series had a GMT with the SPB217J1 and others in that range. All housing the caliber 6R64. Also
Indeed so! I have a SPB223J1 - Limited Edition with a white dial. Beautiful stuff.
@@darkoflight4938 Same here--love that watch. Strange that the Presage GMT line isn't given at least a mention since, at around $1000, it sits right between the Seiko 5 GMT and this new release, price-wise.
Yeah wtf?
Not to mention the sharp edge Presage GMT has an identical ceramic bezel that is present in some of the Grand Seiko sport series GMTs
If only they were able to squeeze the 6R64 into the new diver gmt. Would love to travel and go diving with this one rather than the Presage
Hey iv always loved the content on this channel and really enjoyed how the content was focused on the watch, paired with you narration every video told a complete story and the visual focus on the watch let me be immersed in said story.
While I really like that we can see the individual behind the work in the podcast series and on AMW channel. I personally feel that the old style was better and overall more immersive
Yes, I agree. The videos with the blue backgrounds, with Tom &co, are completely fine with the new format.
But i agree 100% that these videos are much better with the talking hands.
Yesssss!
Signed!
I agree. I think the narrator feels that it’s time to build his personal brand. However, the old format was more classy.
I think this is a beautiful watch. I do wish there was a bit high accuracy committed to by Seiko, as mentioned. The Powermatic movements certainly run much tighter tolerances. Good call out on the Mido comparison. I thought of that one and its offering of a traveler GMT movement. I'm not surprised that the Seiko is a bit better finished, but I've not gotten to handle any Midos (not common in the U.S.). I love that this is a fully diver rated watch, but a traveler GMT movement would make more sense with the thought being that somebody is traveling to some far away island for a bit of diving. Other than that and the awkward date, I have no complaints. I really like this release and can't wait to get up to my AD to get one on wrist.
I’ve got no idea why Seiko have come out with such outlandish numbers because this watch’s accuracy is excellent. I know the internet is alive with BS and you’ll probably be wondering how I can make such a statement seeing that officially it only launched today or yesterday but you’ll just have to take my word for it that the piece I know of has only lost two or three seconds in a week.
@@charliezobel511 It's probably just to keep warranty claims down. I have a 3-1/2yo 6R15 Alpinist keeping +3 secs/day, while my 3yo King Turtle 4R36 is running a sluggish -20 secs/day.
@@RedwoodAggie yeah it’s definitely about warranty claims, although I’ll be interested to see how accurate it is a couple of years down the line. I’ve had my fair share watches over the years and I found my Chronomat B01 to be the most accurate, blimey it was like of a quartz standard 😯 it stayed rock solid on time regardless of if I wore it or left it in the winder for days on end!
This channel has always had impeccable videography but I'm really impressed with how things have changed recently, with the 'mini podcast' style episodes showing the people behind the voices and now with this video, where Andrew is talking to us with his mouth and not his hands - it's a surprising change but a refreshing one. I'd like to see some kind of differentiation between both styles of video but that's just me being picky. Keep it up team, you're going from strength to strength ❤️
OK it's gone too far now I want the old one back 😭😂
This is precisely the review I was looking for particularly from your channel. I’ve been looking at this watch for the last few months online, and I am interested to see your take on it.
This is a handsome piece, and the SPB385 limited edition with its ice-blue dial is a stunner. However it is not the first Prospex GMT. I just recently acquired the SFK001J1 Prospex Sea Sumo. It’s a solar quartz and is a traveller’s GMT with a quickset hour hand and a sapphire crystal. It is available in the low $600 range gray market. The bezel, chapter ring and seconds hand on mine all line up perfectly and so far it has been dead accurate. Yes, it is a quartz, but I am not a mechanical snob. Check it out!
If I wanted a Seiko GMT, I'd go for the presage line. This has a jump hour travelling function and a beautiful hemp leaf pattern dial.
People, this watch has it all: perfect size, finishing high level, ceramic bezel, gmt mvt with 70h pr, adjustable bracelet, 200M wr.
And all for a very reasonable price (including discounts easily obtainable with seiko). No competition at this price point.
Given the complications and finish, iIcan see the $1,400 price. However with a +\- range of 15-25 seconds PER DAY, I will pass. Totally unacceptable for a modern watch. Thanks Andrew for highlighting this specification.
I need this, the case looks amazing - MM200 case is easily one of Seiko’s best. Caller GMT is good for me, I rarely travel abroad so a flyer GMT just makes things less convenient
Ok then, for the price this one is now definitely on my list, really like it - black or green, to be decided.
Looks like my Seiko "Sumo" I have in dark blue I paid about 500€ but indeed the finishing looks way better than the one I have with aluminum bezel and non saphire glass
I’m not a fan of the date windows but on this beauty, perfectly placed and almost hidden. Perfection. Great review.
The bezel looks to be about a half click off. Was that due to the videographer's error or classic Seiko misalignment?
Nothing awkwardly about the date window placement. In fact it's the most appropriate place on the dial, my favourite.
I bought a SEIKO 5 GMT a year ago. If I wind it completely and wear it constantly (24 hours a day) it will run out of power after 36 hours always when I'm in bed at around 2AM. I can see the rotor moving. I went back to the dealer I bought it from and they tested it for 2 days. They then gave me the 'that's normal'.line. I sent it to SEIKO warranty center and received it back with no explanation. It exhibited the same behavior after SEIKO returned it.
I'm thoroughly disappointed. I had a Bulova automatic in the mid 70s and never had to wind it. I would put it on the night stand when I went to sleep. I was more sedentary then than now.
Recommendations, suggestions and advice requested.
How about the Seiko Presage Sharp Edge Series Mechanical True GMT for less than this and not being mentioned?
I loved your thorough review. However, there is 1 negative for me: The price. $1,800 USD??? For that price the bracelet should be better. No micro adjustment? The accuracy should be better at that price.
This is a $1500, don't know why he is saying it's 1800. Maybe UK taxes? Anyway, Seiko is just charging the Seiko fans because the Seiko GMT in the video is based on the 1968 model MarineMaster. I personally think that the Marine Master case design is the best in the world for a diver's watch.
You are correct. It does run for $1,500. I don’t know where I got $1,800 from. However, my other comments stand.
I want this piece but I also own the sla057. Which was around 4500$ 😬. Something about grand Seiko finished it. If I got this and the finishing looked to be the same I don’t think I’d mentally recover
I would consider this Tool watch perfection! I wish more manufacturers made this type of design, a normal dive watch bezel, with an internal GMT ring and GMT hand. Glad to see someone finally made this, without an obnoxious design. (Citizen are you listening?) I wish Rolex would do this. I think they did many years ago, but those are hard to find. Rolex Sea-Dweller GMT! Am I the only one that would buy it?
Can we get it with spring drive? I like more accurate watches.
Thank you for this video.
There are GS GMTs with Spring Drive . . . I have one . . . but they cost a wee bit more.
@@jpdemer5 True, and I do know about them. I have only seen the spring drive GMT with a GMT 24 hour bezel. Is there one with a 60 minute dive Bezel that I do not know about? It has more utility, in my opinion. I would prefer the prospex pricing. They make a Prospex spring drive dive watch. I've kept my eye out for those. They are on the wish list, but would get bumped by this concept, if I found it.
@@petedriggs A GMT with a 60-minute bezel would be an odd beast; as a general rule you get one or the other regardless of brand.
Interesting content. Keep up the good work on your channel. Regards, WR4K.
I recently purchased a Mido Oceanstar GMT, prior to the launch of this Seiko GMT. Looking at price comparison, I believe that Oceanstar GMT is of better value for money. I have no complain with Mido's.
I prefer the Seiko dial overall
It's very nice on the wrist with superlative finishing but is it too expensive ? I don't know. Maybe it isn't... I already have the MM200 Reduced, so should I get this too ?
Love my Seiko divers. I’ll be buying one of these but not at retail. I’ll either wait for sales or buy 2nd hand. That movement is not great. I have other divers with the same non GMT movement. Some are almost spot on and others are out by minutes a day. They obviously know it won’t affect sales. Overall a stunning timepiece and especially as it looks like a thinner MM300, the favourite modern Seiko I own.
Why are the 7 & 17 upside down?
There's a big price gap between Prospex and GS. They could offer something in between. A better caliber, ask up to 2.5k. Go against Oris and Longines.
I am loving these new reviews. Seems so long ago from the first videos in like 2018, and now we get to see both Tom and Andrew? I'm so happy for y'all. Big ups and continued blessings.
They are not the bargain king any longer. But their watches are so nice to wear. As far as the GMT is concerned, I'll leave that opinion to those who feel they need a GMT.
Fell in love when trying this on.
Was either a tudor black bay of this green/hulk colorway. 🔥 green
There's been Presage GMT's, man...
I love my glacier version! Super well made for the money, more “Grand Seiko than Seiko”. I am going to sell my SPB299 now
I am also confused between the green version and the glacier version. Convince me in favor of the glacier version.
@@lockhandelcan’t go wrong with either one TBH
What about the black one?
Are you sure the bezel is ceramic? Is it not polished steel with a shiny covering?
How does the finish compares to the MarineMaster?
Is this case the same as the SPB185J1?
Hello. I live in Turkey and I bought it from a store here for 1400 USD. Do you think I should buy it? How is the material quality and timekeeping?
Would you consider this a better buy at $1300?? I've a local AD who is willing to give me this offer but till Dec 31
Watching this space to see what the the accuracy runout is for owners. Since this movement piggybacks the 6R35 base I am hesitant to spend a dollar on a watch that needs a service and regulation right out of the gate.
Yes I know, everyone knows a guy who knowns a guy who has one that runs within COSC, but the ratio of people who know someone with one that looses and gains minutes in the same week is astounding.
Mines for -4 seconds in 4 days
It depends on the seiko you get.
I have an sla037. Is it worth 6000 bucks ? I don’t think so. But I love it.
The 6R35 movement is both poorly regulated at the factory and it has absolutely crazy positional variance. Charging this much for a movement based on the 6R35 is not a good deal.
Very poor time keeping is the 6R35, read my previous comment 😵
Just ordered this one
I thought this was a variant of the 6R64 flyer GMT released earlier but with a longer power reserve and lower beat rate. However, it's a caller GMT instead.
It really doesn't matter. I doubt you live a lifestyle so specific that you'd ever require one over the other.
4:41 you mention which watches from Seiko had a GMT function. You forgot to mention the gmt Alpinist SBCJ021 and the kinetic divers such as the SUN019 and the SUN024, the latter of which i own as a holiday beater
This watch case fit’s really small, I have the time only in this case my wrist is maybe 7 inches and in no way is it big. Anyone could wear this
If Seiko would release a Willard GMT I will be sitting in front of the store of my local jeweler
A Casio Willard 👀👀
@@adrianhargreaves2854
Damn got the brands messed up
Prospex diver or Marathon GSAR ?
seiko prospex sbej009 spb381 or Tissot seastar 2000?
Isn’t there a Seiko Presage GMT too?
There's something weird about the odd numbers of the 24 hour indicator and i don't like it, but it is a neat watch
I love it.
They're on my Seiko 5 GMT. I don't like that 7 are up and 5 are down, but they're absolutely excellent when you're using it for it's purpose.
Im so glad i accumulated my many Seikos 8 years ago when value was so high
While I appreciate you rightfully giving the nod to the Glycine Airman, I don't quite understand this notion that Seiko didn't have a proper and affordable GMT until this movement's release.
They released the Sharp Edge GMT with a flyer GMT movement around Januari 2021. And before that, they've had a line of GMT's of Grand Seiko for donkey's years, but in August 2018 the 9F quartz flyer GMT was added to that line up. Initially they retailed for 2500 bucks, but over the last five years they've crept up in price somewhat, but at 3200 they are still less than twice the price of this diver's version.
Granted, the 500 buck price bracket was unheard of, but the 1300 price bracket has been around for quite a while now. That said, the competition is much wider than you make it sound. I have a Baltic Aquascaphe GMT, then there is Yema, you have Lorier, and last but not least I own a Farer Lander IV as well, and Farer makes some absolutely cracking little GMT watches, all with 100m WR at a minimum.
Hi Andrew, I beloeve the biggest problem for this Prospex GMT model is the Longines Zulu time. If it would be priced around €850,- to €1200,- it would make more sense.
Cheers from Vienna 😉
Zulu time is almost 3 times the price. No real competition for this Seiko.
The Longines is 2x the price. I’m interested in both models, and am a big fan of both, but the Seiko is $1,500 and the Longines is $3,150
I’m going for the Mido Sea Star GMT… I think.
I've got the Seiko 5 GMT.
A great watch
Seems pointless to me to spend more than three times the price of that on something with no extra functionality.
I'd consider a trade up if they'd made it a proper travellers gmt with adjustable hour hand.
I want more than just better finishing.
what about other "big green" SBPK001 ?
It really amaze me at over 1k Seiko still does not sign the crown? Impressive power reserve at a cost of low beat movement? 21.6 instead of the standard 28.8?
I am finding watches thank to watchfinder& Co. - Luv the commentary!
Cool, new camera angle.
God bless.
Just bought one fell in love with it
I think it looks amazing. The finishing, the proportions.
Only the movement's rating disappoints, in my opinion.
Does that model has the zaratsu-polishing?
Is there a big price jump from the Prospex GMT to the Grand Seiko GMT?
at least ~ 3X and higher in many cases (GS has several GMT's)
I saw this at Seiko boutique. It’s stunning. But it’s too “bling” for me and the movement tolerances is disappointing. Of course I wish I had 1,800 to spend on a watch.
Very precise and knowledgeable individual and great video. Thank you🙏🏽
I kept tripping over your pauses in narration! You were off your regular fabulous fluid flow...I will have to go back, listen again, and actually hear about the watch 😉
I really love this watch it looks stunning the green is absolutely beautiful and I want one for sure
Omg he's showing his face?!!! I've literally never seen that guy's face before!
The Ocean Star GMT special edition is a better value in my opinion. Ocean Star is a true/travelers GMT, plus they give you a red, white, and blue Strap in addition to the bracelet. That strap really makes that watch pop. I love my Seikos though.
Update: I bought the black dial version. I love this watch. I put a black rubber strap on it ( saw it on RUclips), which IMO makes the watch pop. Can’t go wrong with this combo.
But not a fan of the imprint pattern on the dial.
I think Seiko are taking the mickey a bit here. Sure enough, the case finishing is nice but it's not beyond what can be expected at the price. You say almost Grand Seiko levels, but if it was GS level, it would be a GS watch. If you hold out just a little longer, you'll be able to get the Longines Spirit Zulu Time, which has a chronometer certified Flyer GMT movement inside, which while not strictly in-house, is very much in-group, and a similar level finishing including the ceramic bezel and sapphire crystal.
I think coming into these price ranges on their higher end Prospex and Presage models with 6R movements, they really should consider offering some sort of accuracy certification. Wouldn't necessarily have to be COSC or METAS, they could come up with their own "Seiko Performance Guarantee".
Also Andrew, hate to be that guy but Seiko have had other GMTs prior to last year's SSK00X collection in the 5 line. The sharp edge GMTs have been knocking around a few years now with what I believe is a not too dissimilar movement, and recently there's been the addition of a new Prospex GMT, this time a flyer GMT built into a solar quartz movement.
It’s a brand new movement with 3 day power reserve, so different from Sharpe Edge….
Am I right in thinking this looks somewhere between an MM200 and an MM300? The 200 is about 1100 quid and a 300 around £2800. This looks closest to the 300 to me. I once handled one and though a tad heavy I thought it looked and felt a top quality item. Taking this into account it looks pretty smart for it's money... 🤔
This is the same size as the 200. 42mm variant with exactly same dimensions and just 0.4mm extra thickness. The 300 is beast cause it is made for saturation diving. milled solid unibody case and the watch is just spec monster for professionals.
@@Nightfury0695 Thanks for that. I actually own an MM200, which is a great little watch that wouldn't put anyone off. Beautiful finish and lots of character.
Looks like a great piece for the money, dial colour and case finishing, movement not so but sometimes you win the Seiko lottery for accuracy - Will be even more interesting to see when the aftermarket bracelet players i.e strapcode and uncle get their hands on it.
I'm confused, skipped out on RUclips for 2 months and we had a face reveal?! great content as always!
It’s just that the hands grew a head 8)
Love it. Except I’m not touching another 6r movement. Thing is a nightmare.
Idk Orient is giving them a run for their money
Yeah I'd say Orient and some of the micro-brands are better value watches - especially since Seiko quickly sells their movements to other brands (including Aliexpress brands) including the new NH34.
Also since Seiko refuses to address some of their spec and QC issues (pressed clasps, usually mineral crystal, and misaligned bezels) all while significantly bumping up their prices I think this bumps them from the best value brand.
£1400 for this Seiko seems rather pricey
Seiko is giving seiko a run for seikos money?
Orient will often match with on-paper specs, but their finishing is *way* worse across the price points. Also, I don't know if Orient has a True GMT watch at the moment.
True that. Orient is the new Seiko. BTW do they have a GMT though?
I only found out about this watch a few days previous, so I'm seriously glad you put this video together in such a timely fashion. Yes, I like it a lot. Yes, I think it's worth the asking price. But no, I couldn't stretch to it (not now, anyways), so I'm thrilled about the Seiko 5 Sports GMT I bought last week. If I suddenly hit some kind of windfall, *maybe* I'd move to this one, but I'm happy with my 5.
So this is a diver bezel with an internal gmt bezel? That’s really quite smart 🤔
Think the solar prospex GMT is better bang for the buck and the date is at 3.00 - ok so it’s quartz but it’s a damn good watch
It's a good looking watch, but that movement could do with a nicer upgrade. Seems Miyota has won the movement war this time around.
I can't believe Seiko used the conventional GMT movement in this while they do have a mechanical "true" GMT movement used in Grand Seiko.
Also WF, have you considered doing a piece on the Radium Girls? It's such an important piece of watch history and labor rights history, and i feel like you guys could have a unique angle on it
How can Seiko justify that pricing when San Martin already have NH34 Watches with better finishing than a Seiko Prospex (based on my experience of Prospex) for ~£300, likely with more options to come?
I hate 4 o'clock crown, I can see how it may be more comfortable, but aesthetically I just don't like it. Got MIDO Ocean Star GMT. Essentially same specs - dive bezel, GMT, 80 hours, 200 meters, but cheaper and looks better.
Now that prospex has a gmt. I want a new GMT Alpinist.
It would make sense to put a GMT movement in an Alpinist 👌😎