Yes - I own both too, like many I'm sure. But I love Seiko as an authentic brand way more and prefer to wear my Seiko's much more. Rolex marketing reached a tipping point and the 'exclusivity' has backfired. The brand seems to now mostly represent a 'look at me' vibe. So I'll take a Tudor over a Rolex any day! Tudor has taken Rolex's 'crown' (coronet).
Rolex - a watch maker turned fashion brand. Seiko - formerly good value but now a bit overpriced and reliant on churning out 'limited editions' by painting old watches black.
True but a vintage Rolex ( er, the price isn't cheap?..er...make friends with an old bloke - take up golfing ) or new old style Seiko 5 (my new addiction) ?
No, you still don’t get it, for decades Seiko was waaay underpriced and now when they are gone upmarket people started to complain but in the last 50 years Seiko amassed army of loyal fans who will buy a Seiko no matter of bad qc or higher price. Seiko is in our dna and I personally just need my dose of Seiko every year-I currently own 54 Seiko watches!! One good example of this Seiko strategy is Xiaomi, they gone the same road as Seiko.
The first watch I ever bought was a Seiko5 back in 1969 when I was 16 years old. Since then, I've bought few more Seikos. Currently I have 8 Seiko watches including the very first one. It still runs well, and I had it serviced only once. My first Rolex was a two tone Datejust purchased from an AD back in 1985. Over the years, I've added 5 more Rolex watches to my collection. I like both brands but there's something satisfying about seeing a Rolex on your wrist.
@@OscarOSullivan Less accurate. Back then, though, Rolex watches were considered expensive tool watches, not the bloated "luxury" pieces they are today. My first Rolex cost right at $1000 1979 dollars. I soon after bought a Seiko quartz diver for $315. It was more accurate, much brighter in the dark, and just as good looking. A lot of people in the states had no idea what a Rolex was in those days. I wore my Submariner everywhere, though, street fights, car wrecks, jumping out of helicopters, swimming, jaccuzis, in the shower, slept with it, etc. I got rid of it some years later as I wasn't impressed with "things", but, now, I wish I had kept it just for sentimental reasons. About 10 years later I got a GMT Master. I had it less than 2 years. The soul of the brand was gone, it was just an over--priced hood ornament that cost 4 times as much as my subbie.
Excellent thought piece. Well-considered and well-formed opinion. The truth is, if you have a chance to own and enjoy both brands, you have a very blessed existence.
Great show as always MWC! As a watch fan I love both brands but I’m unfortunately not in a position to be on any waiting lists at Rolex authorised dealers. And to be honest, even if I did have the money, the Rolex I love doesn’t exist anymore. Their modern range and business model is several steps removed from the classic tool watches that made them famous. I’d still love a pre ceramic Submariner or a 39mm Explorer but with the secondhand market as it is I’m even less likely to get one of those. So in the context of this fun thought experiment, Seiko wins for me too. And very worthy winners they would be too given their extensive list of innovations and vast catalog of options and models.
This was a great video of both the history of the brands and a (some what) unbiased analysis. Thank you. I do/have owned both. You’re right, the values of the Rolex makes one think about putting it on. Sad but true. Thanks for your channel, it’s a good one!
Yes yes yes, history history history! The concept of a head to head is appropriate and understandable in this respect, but please continue with this particular context; I think users and collectors both are hungry for this. Thank you for your work and approach that hits me just right. Edit: I understand my philosophy doesn't leave much room for micro brands (which I deeply respect), but especially for those entering the hobby, it seems easier to navigate this concept with the context that established brands can readily facilitate.
Thanks to Sir Roger Moore James bond that I can feel being James bond with a Seiko.I own the SBTM319 and the recent SBSC009 GMT.If I ever need to dive which I would not 😂 I wear my NY0040 Citizen watch
Citizen vs Seiko would be interesting I would love a 1970’s 1980’s Rolex submariner though. I do love that Seiko was set up by a 22 year old bloke. Hans Wilsdorf was great as he replaced for free for Allied airmen during world two who lost their Rolex not out of their fault. He was quite an Anglophile and named his budget Rolex brand after one of England’s worst families.
I have one Rolex Sub (I never feel totally comfortable wearing it much. I'm a middle class sporty type of guy.. surfer and diver and I hate when people ask me... "Is that real?" Would never wear a fake anything.) and MANY-MANY Seiko watches (that I truly enjoy wearing feeling relaxed and happy). I couldn't agree with you more. You are spot on!
If I need something Rolex-y, and non-snobby, I'll get the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer SSC935P1 for tens of thousands less than the price of a Daytona. Also, that Seiko is quartz and solar charged. Meaning: no servicing at hundreds of more dollars later on. BUT, if it's an automatic that I want, it'll be the Seiko Prospex Special Ed. SRPK01K1.
It will always be Seiko for me. I grew up with my dad wearing the same Seiko for over 20 years. He’s still be wearing it had he not broken it out by the pool a few years back. And even then, he has it waiting to be repaired because he loves it so much.
Another good one, well stated. When are you and TGV going to do another collab video? I'd love to see one in person, next time he's over in the UK or something. I love his videos with Marc, I would imagine yours would be great as well.
Hey Russ, for a moment there I thought you weren't going to mention the 62MAS! Now, you say 'Prospex' as it is written, fair enough, and many do. But as the word is a contraction of 'Professional Specifications' I've always preferred to say it as 'Pro-Specs' [or 'Pro-Spex']. And I kinda think this was the intent. Might be worth a comment in a future show perhaps?? Loved the show (as always) and G'day from WA!
Great vid my Mad Man! Enjoyed the history, analysis, and justification of your opinion. And while I mostly agree, I think that if I had a Sub, Explorer II, or GMT Master II amidst all my Seikos, AND I had to liquidate to ONE watch, a Rolex is what I would keep. That said, I it just takes one Rolex, and if collecting, it would the one, and on with the Seikos and others. Seiko definitely needs to provide better and/or better regulated movements for watches 750 US and Up. I simply cannot continue to pay 750 - 1800 US for an unregulated movement that runs +15 -45 seconds off. Too many brands Micro and other, that look as good, and provide better value for money w/COSC or close to COSC accuracy-and nice bracelets with on the fly microadjust. Seiko retains so much market share precisely bc of what you attributed to Rolex-brand marketing and market saturation.
The high end Seiko , with a Springdrive , in hardened titanium in the redesignied MM300 is my most worn watch ( Seiko LX). At $3,000 it was a great buy as used but hardly worn . If I had the money to buy a Rolex and was blessed to be invited to purchase one after waiting for several years, I still would prefer to spend it on several or a few Seikos. I live in London and don't want to be a knob and get targeted . I am happy few know about high end Seikos. I also love low end Seikos and have several
The new submariner is the best divers watch, tried one on recently and it had a shimmer like the steel that Excalibur had in the’81 version.Seriously the larger case and the ceramic bezel set it above the rest, including the earlier models,in my opinion. I don’t want a used one..seikos are for occasions when the Rolex or the wearer isn’t guaranteed to be safe from abuse or loss
I always rinse my watches in fresh water and I wont be taking it off, I'm a beach guy and I wear a watch 24/7, w/out one I am naked @@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR
You did miss a trick here, there are two brands linked to Seiko one has used Seiko movements: Orient and the American arm of Seiko : Pulsar. I have a 42 year old Pulsar diver that still works perfectly( Quartz movement) two other brands worth a mention when your talking Seiko.
Like other commenters I own both. However I’m in the process of selling the last of my three Rolexes as over my thirty years of ownership they’ve gained far too many negative connotations for them to reflect my personna. I’m either embarrassed or self conscious wearing them in public and that’s before the security considerations.
One way for me to judge this one, if money were no object I would still have more Seiko watches than Rolex watches in my collection, however Seiko need to realise that in 2024 there are no excuses for sh1tty bracelets and clasps
I absolutely love (loved) every Seiko I have owned over the last 35 years, from dailys to divers, they have all been great but I couldn’t go back now… the Rolly is in a different league… I always dreamed of owning one and worked up to it - Timex, Seiko, Accurist, Casio, G-Shock, Omega (bit of a jump, sorry), to name but a few, and now Rolex. We are very happy together, thank you.
Loved this episode with a bit of history at the beginning.. both brands have their merits and negatives.. i prefer a brand i can enjoy and can affort i have a few seikos and some vintage ones too my fave at the moment is my mini turtle.. i also love my casios another fun affodable brand.. 😂 .. who cares what people say.. enjoy your collection 😅👌
I have watches from both brands, and don't get me wrong, Rolex is great - really nice watches. But, Seiko is my favorite brand - I love the design language and variety of designs they offer. I can totally live without Rolex, but I couldn't live without Seiko :)
I have about a dozen Seikos, and zero Rolexes. I don't think I could justify spending that kind of money on a watch, but it doesn't feel right that even if I decided I suddenly could, I couldn't just stroll into a shop with my hard-earned and walk out with a GMT Master II. Because apparently you need Rolex's permission to buy a watch. You have to show you're worthy. Or a footballer. No thanks! Nothing against the watches, but I dislike what the brand does. I love my varied Seiko collection, from Blueberry GMT and SKXs, Turtle to Samurai and not a few 5s past and present . . . and always a few more on the radar! Thanks Russ you Seiko Monster you ;)
I had my Rolex Sub for 20 years before I sold it and don't miss it. But I still have 8 semi vintage Seiko Divers........... and 1 is my 18th birthday gift from 1978. 7548-7000.
Seiko stomps this one. Rolex isn't even in the same ball park when it comes to horological achievements and whenever seiko does make a watch for 3K+ like SJE/SLA or SNR watches they easily stand up to a Rolex in terms of quality and thats before even stepping up to GS and Credor.
As an old physician, I find my Seikos cover everyone and my Rolex never do that. I agree with the fact that a time piece is still just that and nothing more. yes you can call them jewelry as well but in the end expensive watches are not that much of an investment unless your name is Paul Newman or other big name. Why people think a name brand on anything (tee shirts, purses and watches) make something really worth more. Great subject for the video. What was your wife's comment? lol
"I can live without Rolex, but not Seiko." Hmmmmm, I think that guy spoke volumes. I've only ever owned 2 Rolexes and I only wanted one of them. Seiko, on the other hand, forces me to occasionally purge my collection.
Got both and I always feel like I can flash my seikos around much more than my explorer (which is far from a blingy watch) I have more freedom with a seiko on. Much like those adverts for weak bladders 👍🏻
I like all kinds of watches so I'd have to go with Seiko/Grand Seiko simply because of the breadth and depth of their catalog as well as their history.
Well... I like Seiko (and own some, too). Still for me the go-to watch is the Explorer 1. As said in the video I also hate you cannot just buy them (I do not like this kind of marketing). So for now, I stick with my Seikos and also other brands. My current fav is Zelos, which offers increcible value for money. Not the fanciest movements, but well executed, high quality and goodies (like Micro-Adjust).
Great video!! Always learn interesting stuff and entertaining at the same time. I would think if one owns both brands, many will choose Rolex. Primary reason, it’s a lot harder to get your hands on a Rolex so assuming it would be a lot harder to let go.
Russell I own both. Definitely more Seiko’s than my one Rolex. You helped me buy my first Sk and absolutely love it. Every watch I own has a place and time to be worn and I couldn’t go without my Seiko’s. Great video pal.
1 more thing. I have spoken a number of Rolex owners. None seemed to be watch enthusiasts, all references their cost and worth..... that's generally not the conversion you have with none Rolex enthusiasts..... I would say to all Rolex owners, well done you. You made it :)
@lonewolfemcquade8133 yes of course, I wouldn't suggest all Rolex owners are the same. Russell of course has 1 or 2 I believe. Their designs have been copied/homages countless times and have a timeless quality. I've often speculated, would I buy a Rolex if I had 10 or 20k to spend on a watch. Or would I buy another luxury brand instead... Perhaps in the next 10 years of so I'll find out :)
Rolex used to make awesome tool watches. I have 2 and am a big fan boy 😂😂. Seiko used to make awesome tool watches . They don’t anymore which makes me very very angry 😡. I still own 3 and am a big fan boy 😂😂 Great video 🎉
@adrianhargreaves2854 I think Seiko gets a "pass" on a number of points that say others Brands you would accept. Having said that, they are a legendary brand even today. I've only been in the hobby 2.5 years and I feel I've missed the best of Seiko to a degree
How many pro divers wear a rolex?? , I read somewhere that the average depth for a regular diver is around 35 mtrs before anyone mentions the sea dweller , love what you do Russ ,thanks for sharing
Rolex is an amazing company, making some truly amazing watches for the ages, and I can never take that away from them. They do not, however, have it over Seiko - horologically, Seiko at the very least can go toe-to-toe with the Crown, from movements to dials to cases (okay, lagging somewhat with bracelets), and all in-house. (At the risk of being a tad pedantic, you missed the fact that in 1969, they *also* introduced the first automatic chronograph to be put into serial production, the 6139.) Happily, this "town" is big enough for the both of them.
I can't help but think that if the Swiss had been the first to make a quartz wristwatch the "Quartz Crisis" would be known as the "Quartz Revolution" and celebrated for bringing timekeeping to the masses.
I'd second that. I have the 39mm speed timer and I absolutely love it! I have other watches, but there is just something special about it. The size. The styling. Finishing. The domed crystal. Just 👌
i wanted a rolex, can buy one and not finance. but think its over rated. so i just settled on not buying a watch then i was in japan and saw a seiko watch in display and caught my eye. ended up buying 2 and one was a limited edition.
I only own Casios, I find them the least pretentious of all watch companies and give the most value for money of any watch company. You can get cheap or the occasional expensive one, I bought the 2024 year of the dragon golden armor divine dragon watch and it is a stunning watch aesthetically, meticulous attention to detail with the scales on the bezel and dial among other things (solar and multi band, gold ionized etc)
To me it was my goal to atleast own one good watch in my life...I saw and fell in love with with a blue manta prospex king turtle...to me it's the greatest and I love it and as far as I am concerned it's the greatest....well apart from star wars😅
I love the channel but I think you did not look at this comparison in the right way. You mention seiko and grand seiko a lot in this video but you failed to mention Tudor, a brand I know you are a big fan of. Seiko made a higher end brand to appeal more to the luxury audience (Grand Seiko) while their Seiko watches are lower price and often times for tool oriented. Rolex did the same thing but the other way around. They elevated the status of their brand and created Tudor to carry on the tradition of quality tool watches at a more affordable price point. The only difference here is that Rolex wisely named their lesser prestigious brand a different name so it wouldn’t be confused. As you mention in your video Rolex are much better marketers than Seiko. If Seiko could go back now there is no doubt in my mind they would not have called it Grand Seiko as having Seiko attached the the quality of the GS watches just confuses the general market and lowers the perception of the GS brand in the eyes of those who do not know. I think you may view things differently if you look at Rolex vs Seiko through this lens. All the best friend. Keep up rhe great work and I can’t wait to see the Mad Hacker!
I don’t own a single Seiko, I prefer Citizen, and Casio. But I do love the Seiko VK63, and the NH35 movement in my Chinese watches from Pagani Design, and Steeldive. Likely won’t ever own a Rolex, I’d rather have a Tissot, or Bulova for an everyday luxury watch.
I’d agree with you on this. I’d love an Explorer but at £5000+ that’s not going to happen. Luckily I can get the feel of something like that with the Dress KX for next to nothing or the Alpinist for a £700.
When did the watch community become so infected by haters? It’s enough to turn me away. Why does something have to be better, or best? Impossible to coherently define such abstract words.
@@z06cowboy72 be positive though my friend and don’t help build or perpetuate the negativity . You’re not negative I’m not negative, there are plenty of people that watch the show who aren’t . Let’s concentrate on that .
Been collecting and trading for 40 years now. Many years a member of NAWCC. Omega is absolutely one of the finest and most innovative watch makers in the world. Rolex is the least creative and, in fact, most trite watches since the year 2000. Sold many rolex over the years. They are a cliche for men that know nothing about watches. They also have despicable and manipulative sales techniques to try and keep the brand relative. I love fine watches so much that It is embarrassing to me that so many still devote so much time and attention to Rolex.
Well of course most people would vote Seiko, since most people can't afford a Rolex, which is perfectly fair enough. Fact is, they're both great watch brands albeit they both have their issues. Affordability aside, Rolex are not actually for sale are they? But when and if you do wear one, you have to constantly look over your shoulder to see that some plantpot isn't out to try and mug you. Seiko's pricing is a merry-go-round. Why one is 500 quid and another is 15, I simply can't figure; and without a signed crown at that. What's that all about?
I have often wondered what the true value of Rolex would be if they didn't strangle supply. The actual list price of some of the Oyster models is "only" a few multiples of pricier Seiko divers so if they allowed dealers to lower margins to move volume they might be 10-20% below list and the better steel and better accuracy/longer service life might convince people to buy them and wear them.
Prior to the pandemic they increased the pricing on their hottest sellers by noticeable margins. Once they had to slow production for the pandemic they saw the grey market surge so at that point it was inevitable they would pull an OPEC style sanbagging of production vs demand. Seems funny now to remember the RUclips Rolex hypers trying to convince the public to skip the AD because of the instant depreciation once you walked out of the store. When I bought my Submariner in 1999 it was an instant 30% hit so I went with a second hander. Crazy that people paid $20k for a vanilla date just at peak Rolex bubble. A moment of silence for those after tax monies 🙏
I love Seiko watches and have the turtle Padi at the moment. I’ve got the mini turtle Japanese version SBDY085 on its way from Japan right now. I’ve probably had six or seven Seiko over the years and they’re are just great watches to wear and look at on the wrist. To me that’s a test of a watch I like when I keep looking at it, not just when I want to know the time. The truth is though if a Seiko and a Rolex were put in front of me and I was given the choice of walking away with the Seiko or the Rolex I’m probably going to take the Rolex. As a daily wearer though hands down Seiko wins it.
what a great show 👌 and I agree with you, I would always choose a Seiko. Not because I can't afford a Rolex (I have 4 GS), but because a watch has to fit a person. Without a doubt, Rolex makes good watches but they are more of a status symbol than something for watch enthusiasts.
Everyone complaining about seiko prices going up seems to not fully get it. It's not that seiko prices went up so much (they did a bit) It's that Seiko stopped selling to grey market dealers so much that buy in bulk and sell each unit for much less than seiko does. People are used to the prices being so low because the grey market was so huge. Once seiko cracked down on it the prices went back to retail. For example the SNK809 has been sold at retail for 189.99 since before 2008 but everyone was used to buying that watch for 60 bucks on the grey market. Now prices are just back at retail with only a very small increase.
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
I own both, and love both.
Me too 😍
Yes - I own both too, like many I'm sure. But I love Seiko as an authentic brand way more and prefer to wear my Seiko's much more. Rolex marketing reached a tipping point and the 'exclusivity' has backfired. The brand seems to now mostly represent a 'look at me' vibe. So I'll take a Tudor over a Rolex any day! Tudor has taken Rolex's 'crown' (coronet).
Wearing Rolex may cause you to lose and arm with machete. @@stevezodiac575
I owned both at one time - a Seiko 5, a Rolex Submariner and a Rolex Explorer II. I sold both Rolexes. They just were not worth the money, to me.
Rolex - a watch maker turned fashion brand. Seiko - formerly good value but now a bit overpriced and reliant on churning out 'limited editions' by painting old watches black.
What new shit did Rolex create. 😂 they all do the same thing.
True but a vintage Rolex ( er, the price isn't cheap?..er...make friends with an old bloke - take up golfing ) or new old style Seiko 5 (my new addiction) ?
No, you still don’t get it, for decades Seiko was waaay underpriced and now when they are gone upmarket people started to complain but in the last 50 years Seiko amassed army of loyal fans who will buy a Seiko no matter of bad qc or higher price. Seiko is in our dna and I personally just need my dose of Seiko every year-I currently own 54 Seiko watches!!
One good example of this Seiko strategy is Xiaomi, they gone the same road as Seiko.
Well said @dado380
@@dado380I only have 3 turtles 😂.
The first watch I ever bought was a Seiko5 back in 1969 when I was 16 years old. Since then, I've bought few more Seikos. Currently I have 8 Seiko watches including the very first one. It still runs well, and I had it serviced only once. My first Rolex was a two tone Datejust purchased from an AD back in 1985. Over the years, I've added 5 more Rolex watches to my collection. I like both brands but there's something satisfying about seeing a Rolex on your wrist.
What was it like with timekeeping when the vast majority wore mechanical watches?
Well...Rolex marketing is working on you it seems.
@@OscarOSullivan Less accurate. Back then, though, Rolex watches were considered expensive tool watches, not the bloated "luxury" pieces they are today. My first Rolex cost right at $1000 1979 dollars. I soon after bought a Seiko quartz diver for $315. It was more accurate, much brighter in the dark, and just as good looking. A lot of people in the states had no idea what a Rolex was in those days. I wore my Submariner everywhere, though, street fights, car wrecks, jumping out of helicopters, swimming, jaccuzis, in the shower, slept with it, etc. I got rid of it some years later as I wasn't impressed with "things", but, now, I wish I had kept it just for sentimental reasons. About 10 years later I got a GMT Master. I had it less than 2 years. The soul of the brand was gone, it was just an over--priced hood ornament that cost 4 times as much as my subbie.
Love the comparison, and also learned a lot about their history!
'Bond, you look terrible, did the Russians get to you?', 'No I wore my submariner in Tower Hamlets and got mugged'.
Excellent thought piece. Well-considered and well-formed opinion. The truth is, if you have a chance to own and enjoy both brands, you have a very blessed existence.
Great show as always MWC!
As a watch fan I love both brands but I’m unfortunately not in a position to be on any waiting lists at Rolex authorised dealers. And to be honest, even if I did have the money, the Rolex I love doesn’t exist anymore. Their modern range and business model is several steps removed from the classic tool watches that made them famous. I’d still love a pre ceramic Submariner or a 39mm Explorer but with the secondhand market as it is I’m even less likely to get one of those.
So in the context of this fun thought experiment, Seiko wins for me too. And very worthy winners they would be too given their extensive list of innovations and vast catalog of options and models.
Interesting topic. Makes me consider more about how between these 2 would do to their market, thanks Rusty!
what? I've read your comment 6 times and didn't understand. What their would do to their market?
@@Zeratsu treat their customers?
I've had a Seiko on my wrist since 1971 still going strong
Rollies are very naff these days. Credor are in another league. Seiko all the way. Great show Russ 👍
This was a great video of both the history of the brands and a (some what) unbiased analysis. Thank you. I do/have owned both. You’re right, the values of the Rolex makes one think about putting it on. Sad but true. Thanks for your channel, it’s a good one!
I love your style of story telling mate 👍🏼
Thank you very much my friend !
The Seiko 62MAS is a stunning watch. I NEED IT!
Great topic. Each is a huge part of the watch industry.
Yes yes yes, history history history! The concept of a head to head is appropriate and understandable in this respect, but please continue with this particular context; I think users and collectors both are hungry for this. Thank you for your work and approach that hits me just right.
Edit: I understand my philosophy doesn't leave much room for micro brands (which I deeply respect), but especially for those entering the hobby, it seems easier to navigate this concept with the context that established brands can readily facilitate.
my two watch collecion is mm300 & a panda daytona. Love both. Same.
Interesting.👍
Thanks to Sir Roger Moore James bond that I can feel being James bond with a Seiko.I own the SBTM319 and the recent SBSC009 GMT.If I ever need to dive which I would not 😂 I wear my NY0040 Citizen watch
Citizen vs Seiko would be interesting
I would love a 1970’s 1980’s Rolex submariner though. I do love that Seiko was set up by a 22 year old bloke.
Hans Wilsdorf was great as he replaced for free for Allied airmen during world two who lost their Rolex not out of their fault. He was quite an Anglophile and named his budget Rolex brand after one of England’s worst families.
I think it would be a resounding win for Seiko, as Citizen feels like a 'cheaper' rival.
I have one Rolex Sub (I never feel totally comfortable wearing it much. I'm a middle class sporty type of guy.. surfer and diver and I hate when people ask me... "Is that real?" Would never wear a fake anything.) and MANY-MANY Seiko watches (that I truly enjoy wearing feeling relaxed and happy). I couldn't agree with you more. You are spot on!
If I need something Rolex-y, and non-snobby, I'll get the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer SSC935P1 for tens of thousands less than the price of a Daytona. Also, that Seiko is quartz and solar charged. Meaning: no servicing at hundreds of more dollars later on. BUT, if it's an automatic that I want, it'll be the Seiko Prospex Special Ed. SRPK01K1.
It will always be Seiko for me. I grew up with my dad wearing the same Seiko for over 20 years. He’s still be wearing it had he not broken it out by the pool a few years back. And even then, he has it waiting to be repaired because he loves it so much.
Well done👍
A lot of information delivered well 👍
Another good one, well stated. When are you and TGV going to do another collab video? I'd love to see one in person, next time he's over in the UK or something. I love his videos with Marc, I would imagine yours would be great as well.
I’ve tried!;) he’s a busy man
Seiko just keeps propelling watchmaking forward, even these days.
I would also pick Seiko.
Hey Russ, for a moment there I thought you weren't going to mention the 62MAS! Now, you say 'Prospex' as it is written, fair enough, and many do. But as the word is a contraction of 'Professional Specifications' I've always preferred to say it as 'Pro-Specs' [or 'Pro-Spex']. And I kinda think this was the intent. Might be worth a comment in a future show perhaps?? Loved the show (as always) and G'day from WA!
One of your most amazing videos man! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 I trust Seiko more too.
Thank you my friend!;)
Great vid my Mad Man! Enjoyed the history, analysis, and justification of your opinion. And while I mostly agree, I think that if I had a Sub, Explorer II, or GMT Master II amidst all my Seikos, AND I had to liquidate to ONE watch, a Rolex is what I would keep. That said, I it just takes one Rolex, and if collecting, it would the one, and on with the Seikos and others. Seiko definitely needs to provide better and/or better regulated movements for watches 750 US and Up. I simply cannot continue to pay 750 - 1800 US for an unregulated movement that runs +15 -45 seconds off. Too many brands Micro and other, that look as good, and provide better value for money w/COSC or close to COSC accuracy-and nice bracelets with on the fly microadjust. Seiko retains so much market share precisely bc of what you attributed to Rolex-brand marketing and market saturation.
A Rolex was my first watch when I was 17 years old, so, I've learned that a collection doesn't have to check the Rolex box.
Hi Mad I'm New on your channel and thanks for viewing some awesome watches 😁 Iam a Seiko Fanboy so far. I love different Watches and Exotic Brands
Brilliant video mate. Your passion is amazing. Love this channel.
The high end Seiko , with a Springdrive , in hardened titanium in the redesignied MM300 is my most worn watch ( Seiko LX). At $3,000 it was a great buy as used but hardly worn .
If I had the money to buy a Rolex and was blessed to be invited to purchase one after waiting for several years, I still would prefer to spend it on several or a few Seikos. I live in London and don't want to be a knob and get targeted .
I am happy few know about high end Seikos. I also love low end Seikos and have several
Great video, this is a great contextual VS against two big brands. I still love both brands.
👍 for mentioning Smiths Watch! ❤
The new submariner is the best divers watch, tried one on recently and it had a shimmer like the steel that Excalibur had in the’81 version.Seriously the larger case and the ceramic bezel set it above the rest, including the earlier models,in my opinion. I don’t want a used one..seikos are for occasions when the Rolex or the wearer isn’t guaranteed to be safe from abuse or loss
It’s a great piece of kit but ain’t no one diving with it my friend! Think of all that salt and sand roughing it up!
Trying one on is as close to owning one without losing all your pride and money to machine made fashion brand Rolex
I always rinse my watches in fresh water and I wont be taking it off, I'm a beach guy and I wear a watch 24/7, w/out one I am naked
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR
Seiko cheapened the specs on their most affordable watches and started charging three times as much. Selfish cash grab. I'll stick with Casio.
Grand Seiko and Credor wipe the floor with Rolex in my opinion.
As I really could not make up my mind ….. I went with a “MilSub” Seiko Mod ….. AND I LOVE IT! 😅😂
I own both and other brands too. I love my Sub as I love my Seiko Solar Diver.
Each and every watch has its own merits.
A very enjoyable video and rightly said "it is only your opinion" and it's a good opinion. Keep the content coming the humour is great.
You did miss a trick here, there are two brands linked to Seiko one has used Seiko movements: Orient and the American arm of Seiko : Pulsar.
I have a 42 year old Pulsar diver that still works perfectly( Quartz movement) two other brands worth a mention when your talking Seiko.
Always miss tricks my friend! I ain’t no copperfield!
Like other commenters I own both.
However I’m in the process of selling the last of my three Rolexes as over my thirty years of ownership they’ve gained far too many negative connotations for them to reflect my personna. I’m either embarrassed or self conscious wearing them in public and that’s before the security considerations.
James Bond also wore a few Seikos too.
He still would
One of the best watch videos I have seen for a long time,well done 👍👍
One way for me to judge this one, if money were no object I would still have more Seiko watches than Rolex watches in my collection, however Seiko need to realise that in 2024 there are no excuses for sh1tty bracelets and clasps
I absolutely love (loved) every Seiko I have owned over the last 35 years, from dailys to divers, they have all been great but I couldn’t go back now… the Rolly is in a different league… I always dreamed of owning one and worked up to it - Timex, Seiko, Accurist, Casio, G-Shock, Omega (bit of a jump, sorry), to name but a few, and now Rolex. We are very happy together, thank you.
Loved this episode with a bit of history at the beginning.. both brands have their merits and negatives.. i prefer a brand i can enjoy and can affort i have a few seikos and some vintage ones too my fave at the moment is my mini turtle.. i also love my casios another fun affodable brand.. 😂 .. who cares what people say.. enjoy your collection 😅👌
I have watches from both brands, and don't get me wrong, Rolex is great - really nice watches. But, Seiko is my favorite brand - I love the design language and variety of designs they offer. I can totally live without Rolex, but I couldn't live without Seiko :)
You are not a rolex owner....
@@lougoecker9650 okay 😂 whatever helps you sleep at night big guy
Seiko 5 from 1971... I have 5 of them... Best watch ever
I have about a dozen Seikos, and zero Rolexes. I don't think I could justify spending that kind of money on a watch, but it doesn't feel right that even if I decided I suddenly could, I couldn't just stroll into a shop with my hard-earned and walk out with a GMT Master II. Because apparently you need Rolex's permission to buy a watch. You have to show you're worthy. Or a footballer. No thanks! Nothing against the watches, but I dislike what the brand does. I love my varied Seiko collection, from Blueberry GMT and SKXs, Turtle to Samurai and not a few 5s past and present . . . and always a few more on the radar! Thanks Russ you Seiko Monster you ;)
I didn't know you had to be worthy to buy a rolex . Sounds as woke and stupid as Ferrari.
That little trick with the LIKE button was a great touch!
I had my Rolex Sub for 20 years before I sold it and don't miss it. But I still have 8 semi vintage Seiko Divers........... and 1 is my 18th birthday gift from 1978. 7548-7000.
Seiko stomps this one. Rolex isn't even in the same ball park when it comes to horological achievements and whenever seiko does make a watch for 3K+ like SJE/SLA or SNR watches they easily stand up to a Rolex in terms of quality and thats before even stepping up to GS and Credor.
Orient, Omega, and Grand Seiko gang 😎
You are the best Seikollector! :)
Keep doing what you’re doing. Very entertaining.
As an old physician, I find my Seikos cover everyone and my Rolex never do that. I agree with the fact that a time piece is still just that and nothing more. yes you can call them jewelry as well but in the end expensive watches are not that much of an investment unless your name is Paul Newman or other big name. Why people think a name brand on anything (tee shirts, purses and watches) make something really worth more. Great subject for the video. What was your wife's comment? lol
i've tried with seiko. just doesn't float my boat
"I can live without Rolex, but not Seiko." Hmmmmm, I think that guy spoke volumes. I've only ever owned 2 Rolexes and I only wanted one of them. Seiko, on the other hand, forces me to occasionally purge my collection.
Got both and I always feel like I can flash my seikos around much more than my explorer (which is far from a blingy watch)
I have more freedom with a seiko on.
Much like those adverts for weak bladders 👍🏻
I like all kinds of watches so I'd have to go with Seiko/Grand Seiko simply because of the breadth and depth of their catalog as well as their history.
I would like a 1 hour video of just the video transitions, spliced together, on repeat to play in the background of my office or living room.
Such an entertaining watch mate, well done 👏 Tate was pro-Seiko from the outset 😂
Well... I like Seiko (and own some, too).
Still for me the go-to watch is the Explorer 1. As said in the video I also hate you cannot just buy them (I do not like this kind of marketing). So for now, I stick with my Seikos and also other brands. My current fav is Zelos, which offers increcible value for money. Not the fanciest movements, but well executed, high quality and goodies (like Micro-Adjust).
Great video!! Always learn interesting stuff and entertaining at the same time.
I would think if one owns both brands, many will choose Rolex. Primary reason, it’s a lot harder to get your hands on a Rolex so assuming it would be a lot harder to let go.
ME TOO...!!! I´M SO GLAD WE ARE ON THE SAME PAGE...
Russell I own both. Definitely more Seiko’s than my one Rolex. You helped me buy my first Sk and absolutely love it. Every watch I own has a place and time to be worn and I couldn’t go without my Seiko’s. Great video pal.
Seiko were some of my first watches and I’ll always be very fond of them. All the best Russ🤙🏻
1 more thing. I have spoken a number of Rolex owners. None seemed to be watch enthusiasts, all references their cost and worth..... that's generally not the conversion you have with none Rolex enthusiasts.....
I would say to all Rolex owners, well done you. You made it :)
@lonewolfemcquade8133 yes of course, I wouldn't suggest all Rolex owners are the same. Russell of course has 1 or 2 I believe.
Their designs have been copied/homages countless times and have a timeless quality.
I've often speculated, would I buy a Rolex if I had 10 or 20k to spend on a watch. Or would I buy another luxury brand instead...
Perhaps in the next 10 years of so I'll find out :)
Rolex used to make awesome tool watches. I have 2 and am a big fan boy 😂😂.
Seiko used to make awesome tool watches . They don’t anymore which makes me very very angry 😡.
I still own 3 and am a big fan boy 😂😂
Great video 🎉
@adrianhargreaves2854 I think Seiko gets a "pass" on a number of points that say others Brands you would accept. Having said that, they are a legendary brand even today.
I've only been in the hobby 2.5 years and I feel I've missed the best of Seiko to a degree
How many pro divers wear a rolex?? , I read somewhere that the average depth for a regular diver is around 35 mtrs before anyone mentions the sea dweller , love what you do Russ ,thanks for sharing
Rolex is an amazing company, making some truly amazing watches for the ages, and I can never take that away from them. They do not, however, have it over Seiko - horologically, Seiko at the very least can go toe-to-toe with the Crown, from movements to dials to cases (okay, lagging somewhat with bracelets), and all in-house. (At the risk of being a tad pedantic, you missed the fact that in 1969, they *also* introduced the first automatic chronograph to be put into serial production, the 6139.) Happily, this "town" is big enough for the both of them.
I can't help but think that if the Swiss had been the first to make a quartz wristwatch the "Quartz Crisis" would be known as the "Quartz Revolution" and celebrated for bringing timekeeping to the masses.
I want the new SKX gmt so much, i can't sleep from it!
Try this JDM
SEIKO 5 SBSC009 Field Sports GMT Mechanical Automatic Watch .
I've gotten out of the mechanical watch business as they no longer appeal to me. I think Seiko's best offerings now are their solar quartz models.
Yeah love my Seiko Panda
I'd second that. I have the 39mm speed timer and I absolutely love it! I have other watches, but there is just something special about it. The size. The styling. Finishing. The domed crystal. Just 👌
Great video as always, but the Tokyo Olympics were in 1964, not 1960.
i wanted a rolex, can buy one and not finance. but think its over rated. so i just settled on not buying a watch then i was in japan and saw a seiko watch in display and caught my eye. ended up buying 2 and one was a limited edition.
Great episode ❤
Try this JDM
SEIKO 5 SBSC009 Field Sports GMT Mechanical Automatic Watch .
Great post guy ,
I only own Casios, I find them the least pretentious of all watch companies and give the most value for money of any watch company. You can get cheap or the occasional expensive one, I bought the 2024 year of the dragon golden armor divine dragon watch and it is a stunning watch aesthetically, meticulous attention to detail with the scales on the bezel and dial among other things (solar and multi band, gold ionized etc)
To me it was my goal to atleast own one good watch in my life...I saw and fell in love with with a blue manta prospex king turtle...to me it's the greatest and I love it and as far as I am concerned it's the greatest....well apart from star wars😅
I love the channel but I think you did not look at this comparison in the right way. You mention seiko and grand seiko a lot in this video but you failed to mention Tudor, a brand I know you are a big fan of.
Seiko made a higher end brand to appeal more to the luxury audience (Grand Seiko) while their Seiko watches are lower price and often times for tool oriented.
Rolex did the same thing but the other way around. They elevated the status of their brand and created Tudor to carry on the tradition of quality tool watches at a more affordable price point.
The only difference here is that Rolex wisely named their lesser prestigious brand a different name so it wouldn’t be confused. As you mention in your video Rolex are much better marketers than Seiko. If Seiko could go back now there is no doubt in my mind they would not have called it Grand Seiko as having Seiko attached the the quality of the GS watches just confuses the general market and lowers the perception of the GS brand in the eyes of those who do not know.
I think you may view things differently if you look at Rolex vs Seiko through this lens.
All the best friend. Keep up rhe great work and I can’t wait to see the Mad Hacker!
love your videos mate
Apreciate that my friend!!
Also love both for whole varying reasons.
I don’t own a single Seiko, I prefer Citizen, and Casio. But I do love the Seiko VK63, and the NH35 movement in my Chinese watches from Pagani Design, and Steeldive. Likely won’t ever own a Rolex, I’d rather have a Tissot, or Bulova for an everyday luxury watch.
I’d agree with you on this. I’d love an Explorer but at £5000+ that’s not going to happen. Luckily I can get the feel of something like that with the Dress KX for next to nothing or the Alpinist for a £700.
When did the watch community become so infected by haters? It’s enough to turn me away. Why does something have to be better, or best? Impossible to coherently define such abstract words.
You didn’t watch the show.
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR You haven't read the comments...
@@z06cowboy72 be positive though my friend and don’t help build or perpetuate the negativity . You’re not negative I’m not negative, there are plenty of people that watch the show who aren’t . Let’s concentrate on that .
@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR Only love and respect from me Brother. All the hate just saddens me.
Been collecting and trading for 40 years now. Many years a member of NAWCC. Omega is absolutely one of the finest and most innovative watch makers in the world. Rolex is the least creative and, in fact, most trite watches since the year 2000. Sold many rolex over the years. They are a cliche for men that know nothing about watches. They also have despicable and manipulative sales techniques to try and keep the brand relative. I love fine watches so much that It is embarrassing to me that so many still devote so much time and attention to Rolex.
Great show today, really show the passion you have, keep it up mate 👍🏻🔥
Well of course most people would vote Seiko, since most people can't afford a Rolex, which is perfectly fair enough. Fact is, they're both great watch brands albeit they both have their issues. Affordability aside, Rolex are not actually for sale are they? But when and if you do wear one, you have to constantly look over your shoulder to see that some plantpot isn't out to try and mug you. Seiko's pricing is a merry-go-round. Why one is 500 quid and another is 15, I simply can't figure; and without a signed crown at that. What's that all about?
I have often wondered what the true value of Rolex would be if they didn't strangle supply. The actual list price of some of the Oyster models is "only" a few multiples of pricier Seiko divers so if they allowed dealers to lower margins to move volume they might be 10-20% below list and the better steel and better accuracy/longer service life might convince people to buy them and wear them.
Prior to the pandemic they increased the pricing on their hottest sellers by noticeable margins. Once they had to slow production for the pandemic they saw the grey market surge so at that point it was inevitable they would pull an OPEC style sanbagging of production vs demand. Seems funny now to remember the RUclips Rolex hypers trying to convince the public to skip the AD because of the instant depreciation once you walked out of the store. When I bought my Submariner in 1999 it was an instant 30% hit so I went with a second hander. Crazy that people paid $20k for a vanilla date just at peak Rolex bubble. A moment of silence for those after tax monies 🙏
*sigh* patiently waiting on the Casio SOTC you teased 10 days ago.
There’s too many!!!!
I love Seiko watches and have the turtle Padi at the moment. I’ve got the mini turtle Japanese version SBDY085 on its way from Japan right now. I’ve probably had six or seven Seiko over the years and they’re are just great watches to wear and look at on the wrist. To me that’s a test of a watch I like when I keep looking at it, not just when I want to know the time. The truth is though if a Seiko and a Rolex were put in front of me and I was given the choice of walking away with the Seiko or the Rolex I’m probably going to take the Rolex. As a daily wearer though hands down Seiko wins it.
absolutely great comparison, seiko for me
If I had a Rolex, I'd sell it and buy several Seikos
Seiko, Tissot and Hamilton ❤❤❤
Hamilton is a rip off for what you get.
@@ListenToPowerViolence yea. Broke people say that a lot.
@@lonewolfemcquade8133 so you don’t know watches ? What a shame.
@@ListenToPowerViolence what non micro brand gives you better value ?
Great video! Thanks for the history lesson. Always enjoy watching and learning from your videos. Have an awesome weekend! 🙏🏼
I must admit I keep trying to expand my collection beyond Seiko however I keep finding Seiko's I like.
what a great show 👌 and I agree with you, I would always choose a Seiko. Not because I can't afford a Rolex (I have 4 GS), but because a watch has to fit a person.
Without a doubt, Rolex makes good watches but they are more of a status symbol than something for watch enthusiasts.
Everyone complaining about seiko prices going up seems to not fully get it. It's not that seiko prices went up so much (they did a bit) It's that Seiko stopped selling to grey market dealers so much that buy in bulk and sell each unit for much less than seiko does. People are used to the prices being so low because the grey market was so huge. Once seiko cracked down on it the prices went back to retail. For example the SNK809 has been sold at retail for 189.99 since before 2008 but everyone was used to buying that watch for 60 bucks on the grey market. Now prices are just back at retail with only a very small increase.
If i had the money to waste on a rolex i wouldn't buy the rolex , id buy 100 seiko watches.
Great video Russ! The Willard always looks awesome! 👍