Thank you so much, I truly appreciate it. I must confess, it takes almost as much time to shoot and edit than the actual review, but it's worth it as I know the good Gentry out there enjoy it. Every time I make an intro, I learn a new editing technique and so it's really been fun learning. Onwards and upwards! Best regards, TGV
I watched this video a week ago without even knowing this watch exists, then immediately purchased one. Damn you, TGV!!! With that said, I emailed Seiko about the bezel insert and here's what they said: "In reply to your recent communication please know According to our records the SLA037 does not have a ceramic bezel insert. The bezel insert is the special “Ever Brilliant Steel” material with a hard coating which also provides the color and sheen."
Tell me please the feelings about this watch, its been a year. Hows bezel? I heard ita not ceramic. Any scratches? What about glass bracelet, movement?
@@hansross7417 it’s fantastic. No issues whatsoever, movements great, watch is great, case is scratches and bezel too. My Rolex sub scratched much quicker than the sla
I just want to say I like the 80s inspired synth pop going on in the background. My recent experience - I bought an SPB149, which is essentially the cheaper Prospex version of this watch with the 6R35 movement. First thing I noticed was the bezel was slightly misaligned (this is not unusual with Seiko so I was only mildly irritated). I took the watch to my local watchmaker (a nice Polish man with old school customer service) hoping for a quick bezel fix. He put the watch on the timegrapher and tested it in several positions and the look on his face made my heart sink. He basically said "Look, send it in to Seiko under warranty. The movement is all over the place. Get the bezel fixed at the same time." So my watchmaker is sending it off to Seiko for a warranty service and that's where I'm at right now. I can't say I'm not slightly disappointed but I think the worst part is that I don't feel surprised. I've had 3 previous 6R movements and none have been kind to me - they really can't compare to my Sellitas or ETAs. Makes me wonder if I'm a sucker for constantly going back to Seiko. On the one hand, their quality is patchy (not including Grand Seiko, obviously) but on the other hand, they are SEIKO with all that history and prestige. It's complicated. I just want Seiko to make something to match an ETA 2824 for a similar price and use that in their mid-range watches rather than the 6R series. For a company that has such an illustrious history with watch accuracy, their movements should strive to live up to this reputation. Seiko fans can see the changes and they're not enthusiastic about them - the prices are going up but many feel they're not getting anything additional for the extra money they pay. Personally, the one real positive is Seiko are making better design decisions in terms of the models they are releasing - they seem to have a better understanding of what people want (the non-replacement of an equivalent SKX diver is an exception, though). I'll just end by saying I wish current Seiko had the respect for their customers that their customers clearly have for Seiko. It's not a zero-sum game. I think you can move upmarket and bring your current base with you but if you're going to charge more, you also need to offer more.
I almost pulled the trigger on the grey version in the hope they fixed their 6R issues. But if they can't even do things right on the limited edition I'll stick with my 4R San Martin. Maybe Seiko should let them produce a batch with the Seiko logo and ask 500 dollars for it. Hope they can fix your watch but it's obvious their quality control is not on par with their new pricing scheme.
I had no clue that the 6r movements are unreliable :o i assumed that because it's seiko, the movement will be very solid. Now i'm starting to wonder if ordering the spb149 was actually a mistake. I guess i'll need to take it to my local dealer as soon as i get it to put it on a timegrapher. Also it's unbeliavable they still can't get their bezels straight.
I can appreciate what Seiko is doing I've always been a Seiko fanboy whether I like it or not is another story. I absolutely love this watch but I almost wish they made one for more of a mass market because that is one of the things I loved about seiko's their ability reproduce a great watch at a great price. However I believe they've earned the right to create a higher-end watch that commands the price of their Swiss counterparts they definitely truly are masters of The Craft. I think your video help me put it in perspective whereas we enjoyed great watches at great prices from Seiko I like that they are taking their brand to a much more luxurious level. I sure hope they don't forget about us Seiko 5 Guys in the process
Love the intro, mixing in some Samurai Champloo. I came across something I think would be up your alley. How would one go about sending you something as a gift in a small thanks for all that you do?
I have an SKX009j, sold my SMPc300 and never looked back. Seiko delivers. They are robust. They are iconic. I love it. I would and seriously should sell everything and grab a Prospex LX SNR029, what a beauty of a beast - The Ultimate Seiko - in my opinion.
@@theurbangentry i domt know how you manage to come out with even more stunning intros than the last ones.. it is so incredible... :) Keep it up.. question.. did you ever make an episode why you moved to The US ? Would love to know why you left europe :) greetz from germany.. btw my new episode about my ultra rare hamilton Arri field watch is beeing released today ^^
I love his intros. I do beg to differ with his statement that Seiko "pioneered" the high beat movement. I think the people at Zenith would have something to say about that.
That little clip of testimony at the end of the intro really hit home. Both of my beloved grandparents wore a seiko until their dying day, and I have them both. My name is on the back of my grandfather’s watch, from when I gave it to him 5+ years before his death.
Phelan I totally get it! Seiko really lost it’s way! First the 5KX instead of giving the deserving updates everyone wanted to the SKX and call it the SKX.2 and now that fugly Prospex logo!
I have this baby for about 2 weeks, bought from AD has all the papers and box. Some watch enthusiasts consider it too expensive, to be fair, it is quite pricey, even more pricey than some Grand Seiko watches. Still, it is a very finely crafted watch from one of the finest brands on the market. A very beautiful piece. I am very happy getting it.
Case of serious brand confusion here. The Seiko brand was for solid tool watches and lower priced but well made (with some quality problems) watches. Grand Seiko was the Lexus luxury brand to the Toyota common person Seiko. My guess is that this watch is simply Seiko selling a high end high priced watch for all of the watch connoisseurs who have very high price watches but wear Seikos as their every day “cheap” watches. Now that watch aficionado has a high price Seiko that to the uninitiated eye looks like a regular Seiko but to those in the know - it’s the ultimate homage model. Just my 2c!
Great video as always, but I have to be honest...the price was eye opening. I was going to guess it was an $800 watch. Yes, I admit that’s ignorant of the technology here, but my assumption was simply based on how the watch looks. Given the thickness, the way the bezel looks, the over abundance of high polish and somewhat lack of sophistication of the case design, I would never ever have guessed this was a $6300 watch. Shocking. Honestly my NTH Barracuda looks far more expensive, even though I realize the movement is far inferior.
It seems very clear that you have never handled one of these Seikos in your hand - or you simply don't know much about watches. The quality of these pieces is absolutely outstanding and easily on par with Rolex or Omega and for sure more Blancpain Barakuda than NTH Barracuda ;)
No other channel, and I mean none, will I even start to watch the video with an intro more than several seconds. These are sooo good! Look forward to each one you do.
Clark W very well put, they keep raising the price and the quality control issues still persist. all the seiko fanboys just accept the poor quality. no other watch company would be given a free pass as seiko has been given.
Seiko has lost me too, though I have bought a few Seiko Presages this year that I love. Prices in general and on the "special or limited ed." has just gone too far up. Orient has pulled me back in, my next watch is probably an Orient Kamasu with red dial or the green one.
Undoubtedly marvelous timepiece, but the video production is totally on par! Yes, I've browsed through the comments already and I know I'm not original here, but I believe credit must be given when due. And you just can't overpraise a work when it simply bleeds quality and passion! Fantastic review! Thank you, TGV, thank you, good sir!
Thank you so much Igor, I am deeply flattered and inspired my friend. You have no idea how much I appreciated that. Onwards and upwards! Best regards, TGV
Good evening TGV! Great intro, great interludes! This is a real hefty diver! It's pricey, of course, but I definetly like this Seiko. The real downside of course is the limitation, as you pointed out correctly. But maybe we are lucky and we will find some of the DNA in more accesible Seikos. Have a great weekend! Best regards!
If I were them I'd sell this under the Grand Seiko Brand, to compete with Tudor BB58 and Omega SM300. Include also snowflake dial versions, and profit. It would require some (and then some) money towards marketing and product placement, but they could have a contender. $6k is just insane for a Seiko. This is just for a handful of enthusiasts while the rest of us get ourselves a San Martin.
Have a Omega Seamaster 300M 42mm shocked my Seiko Turtle limited edition has a 8L55 movement unregulated more accurate than my overhyped Omega Seamaster
The spb051 was a great watch for the money. It was a massive upgrade on most seiko divers. The sla043 which I is cheaper than this high beat movement, is probably the best value one they have made to date. Still expensive for a seiko, but as good as the competition, if not better .
Great review, stunning intro. I do agree with you, this would have been a prefect watch to extend their range of divers, a great pice for people who can't wear the bigger GS divers. A real shame it's a limited edition.
Calling it a “quartz crisis” is sucking off the Swiss watch mafia. It’s a quartz REVOLUTION that both democratized the wrist watch and made time telling exponentially more accurate.
I've seen it called 'the'quartz attack', as if technological improvements are somehow aggressive. I see this 'crisis' as the failure of the mechanical watch industry to anticipate and respond to innovation, they are not the victims here.
Solid video and overview. I do have to say - GS pricing with far below GS finishing under the loupe for both the face and movement leaves me cold. Cash grab from Seiko for the "limited" obsessed crowd.
In my book With Orient around, Seiko takes a back seat. I purchased a green Kamasu that looks more like a teal, is probably more beautiful than this dial plus its just as substantial. I dig Seiko, but its an easy pass for me anymore
I am a big orient star fan and collector. Started out with orient (ray 2 and neo) and discovered orient star esp their older models...their dial designs and quality are really something
Dive watch wise, I'll pass on Orient, though, some of their designs are nice if somewhat uninspired. I don't think anyone, IMHO, can hold a candle to Seiko when it comes to dive watches, not Rolex or Omega, etc. However, in checking out their other watches, I studied up on Orient and found that they also have quite the history. I find their other lines more tasteful than Seiko and quite understated in presentation. Orient also seems to have more variety and classic designs than Citizen. I'm about to buy one, a Tri-Star that I like much more than the Seiko SARB, and, inexpensive as it is, actually gives my Ball Limited Edition a run for its money in the "Explorer"-ish watch category. I also think the Bambinos is a little more appealing to me than the Seiko Presage line.
Thats cool, but if u enjoy unaligned chapter rings, rattling bracelets both of which Seiko is known for, thats your company. Just think they forgot what made them popular and forget the quality control
Seiko: "How do I keep making our watches better with innovative ideas?" Every other watchmaker: "How do I get them to pay more for the same watch over and over again?"
In this particular case, Seiko is guilty of the later statement, too. They have just released the SLA017 three years ago - the same watch, for 2000€ less.
You have to pay a heavy premium to get rid of that Prospex X on the dial! 🙄 Will Seiko ever listen and start putting it on the crown instead on their regular lines?🤔
That's where we differ, Seiko is not attempting to reposition by traditional means, but rather attempting to game the market to alter their image, instead of repositioning by offering value for the level of market place they are attempting to secure, because they see that there is a market of ignorant fashion oriented watch wearers. Smacks of jealousy and ingratitude. I'd rather be seen wearing a Casio these days.
This is the best dressy looking dive watch. It was originally designed to be a tool but since the tool development was so primitive and undeveloped, it actually looks like a dress watch with a rotating bezel. Diving bezel and date window is very functional features without getting rid of the dressy style.
astro boy that’s not accurate at all... Better question why you paying $4,000 for a black bay when a Seamater professional 300m is available for the same price? Omega has: - better movement - equal or better durability - better history - better legibility - better dial options - better size options
So I thought at first that the intro was the coolest Seiko commercial ever that came up by chance given my watchophile viewing habits. Great stuff TGV!
Re your Seiko Yatchmaster build, one mod i would suggest, Rob, is drilling a center hole in the triangle at the 12oclock position of the bezel ring and mounting a single diamond, even a Lab diamond would be an inexpensive improvement. Seiko's are not a watch that should be blinged but a single element could be interesting.
I was fortunate enough to purchase an SLA 037J When they first were released . It's an absolutely beautiful peice, and definitely one of my favorite divers . Seiko has since come out with the spb149j, as well as 3 more in different colors. For anyone who likes the 037 , the spb 149,'s can fit the bill . Great watches, but I'm afraid you're right about their pricing restructuring.
Wow what an awesome watch! 47.5 lug tip to tip? 39 mm? Us small wristies are in here!!!! It’s a hefty boy!!!! Ever brilliant steel???? I’m in!! Great intro! Currently wearing the SKX KILLER mini Turtle! All the best matey!
HaHa, indeed!!! I wonder how much smaller it will go? What would you say is your fave size? Thank you for the kind words as always. Always nice to hear from you fellow watch youtuber that actually engages with the me and the rest of the Gentry. All the best to you, keep up the good work. Best regards, TGV
The Urban Gentry not sure why that is as your knowledge TGV is superb and are always aproachable !! Top guy that has done so much for Watch enthusiasts honestly. Well!!!! I tried in the Oris Sixty Five 36mm!! Now we’re getting close to the true vintage sizes!!! I don’t think there’s another brand that do new vintage like them! Have you had that watch on your wrist?! Currently consolidating now to make way for it!;)
The sides of the hour markers should be polished I think, sitting that high, the sides of the hour markers can be seen from all angles. It will add a little to the cost, but so much more to the finishing.
Just got mine 2 weeks ago. The people who talk negative about it because it’s a seiko for 6k have never seen it in person. The only disappointment is seiko didn’t use the new 80hr high beat movement.
I could not agree more! Enjoy it William, a very classy choice that anyone who really knows watches, and in a wider sense, horology, should be extremely proud of! Thank you for sharing that, it made me very happy to hear that. Best regards, TGV
TGV I've said it before and I'll say it again... I sold all my Swiss watches (Omega, Tudor and Hamilton) only to focus and collect Seiko and Casio. Japan rule the rost in my mind for watches and on a side note fishing gear... love ya work buddy!
Just got mine. Your video convinced me I could no longer just admire it through a screen :) Thank you!! Now time to experiment with some straps! I so want to source an SLA017 bracelet for it.
My dude, that was the most insanely sick intro in a long line up of insanely sick intros you’ve done. Watching this with an SBDX017 on my wrist and just appreciating your love of Seiko and your editing prowess.
Love your videos. Decided it was time for my first foray into the SLA series and went for the SLA065. One day I'll visit Japan and get myself either this or the SLA055/57.
Let's just appreciate the perfection gone into these intros 🙌
Thank you Rob :D
Best regards,
TGV
Legit was about to say the same thing how each is unique and pertain to the subject
You just can't go wrong with Seiko+SamuraiChamploo😍😍😍
I like the basket weave pattern on the strap
I love this channel.
Sounded great with my mega bass headphones too
It’s taken years of practice but tgv has the art of the intro down
Valor233 I would say he’s had it down for a while. Check out his hamilton khaki field video
It's miles better than yelling "heyyy gaaaissss" at the top of his lungs into the mic.
You know that’s just from Seiko, right?
Thank you so much, I truly appreciate it. I must confess, it takes almost as much time to shoot and edit than the actual review, but it's worth it as I know the good Gentry out there enjoy it. Every time I make an intro, I learn a new editing technique and so it's really been fun learning.
Onwards and upwards!
Best regards,
TGV
TheCarGuys.TV pretty sure it isn’t
I watched this video a week ago without even knowing this watch exists, then immediately purchased one. Damn you, TGV!!!
With that said, I emailed Seiko about the bezel insert and here's what they said:
"In reply to your recent communication please know According to our records the SLA037 does not have a ceramic bezel insert. The bezel insert is the special “Ever Brilliant Steel” material with a hard coating which also provides the color and sheen."
I believe it’s titanium carbide coating.
Bought it a month and a half ago. Its absolutely diver-perfection and a future classic piece. Aesthetics and technology is top-notch on this one.
How often do you wear it??
STAGGERLEE every day since i bought it
@@MercyShot83 Good to hear!
Tell me please the feelings about this watch, its been a year. Hows bezel? I heard ita not ceramic. Any scratches? What about glass bracelet, movement?
@@hansross7417 it’s fantastic. No issues whatsoever, movements great, watch is great, case is scratches and bezel too. My Rolex sub scratched much quicker than the sla
I’ve barely started watching this but I must say that’s one of my favorite intros of yours yet, even out of the many amazing intros you’ve done.
Thank you so much Kris :D
Best regards,
TGV
I feel alienated.
Here, here.
Ah, Samurai Champloo. Always a pleasure to see that anime tied to other facets of life.
"The sweater over the shoulder crowd."😂
Spot on. As usual. Thanks.
I just want to say I like the 80s inspired synth pop going on in the background.
My recent experience - I bought an SPB149, which is essentially the cheaper Prospex version of this watch with the 6R35 movement. First thing I noticed was the bezel was slightly misaligned (this is not unusual with Seiko so I was only mildly irritated). I took the watch to my local watchmaker (a nice Polish man with old school customer service) hoping for a quick bezel fix. He put the watch on the timegrapher and tested it in several positions and the look on his face made my heart sink. He basically said "Look, send it in to Seiko under warranty. The movement is all over the place. Get the bezel fixed at the same time." So my watchmaker is sending it off to Seiko for a warranty service and that's where I'm at right now.
I can't say I'm not slightly disappointed but I think the worst part is that I don't feel surprised. I've had 3 previous 6R movements and none have been kind to me - they really can't compare to my Sellitas or ETAs. Makes me wonder if I'm a sucker for constantly going back to Seiko. On the one hand, their quality is patchy (not including Grand Seiko, obviously) but on the other hand, they are SEIKO with all that history and prestige. It's complicated. I just want Seiko to make something to match an ETA 2824 for a similar price and use that in their mid-range watches rather than the 6R series. For a company that has such an illustrious history with watch accuracy, their movements should strive to live up to this reputation.
Seiko fans can see the changes and they're not enthusiastic about them - the prices are going up but many feel they're not getting anything additional for the extra money they pay. Personally, the one real positive is Seiko are making better design decisions in terms of the models they are releasing - they seem to have a better understanding of what people want (the non-replacement of an equivalent SKX diver is an exception, though).
I'll just end by saying I wish current Seiko had the respect for their customers that their customers clearly have for Seiko. It's not a zero-sum game. I think you can move upmarket and bring your current base with you but if you're going to charge more, you also need to offer more.
This comment needs more recognition. So true.
I almost pulled the trigger on the grey version in the hope they fixed their 6R issues. But if they can't even do things right on the limited edition I'll stick with my 4R San Martin. Maybe Seiko should let them produce a batch with the Seiko logo and ask 500 dollars for it. Hope they can fix your watch but it's obvious their quality control is not on par with their new pricing scheme.
As a Seiko fan, I 100% agree with you
I had no clue that the 6r movements are unreliable :o i assumed that because it's seiko, the movement will be very solid. Now i'm starting to wonder if ordering the spb149 was actually a mistake. I guess i'll need to take it to my local dealer as soon as i get it to put it on a timegrapher. Also it's unbeliavable they still can't get their bezels straight.
@@JeeGee114 you are so right
That intro, whew, that exceeded any of my expectations. Samurai Champloo is my all time favourite, just ahead of Cowboy Bebop.
I'm loving this new phase of The Urban Gentry, superb intro!
Before the review starts, I’ve had to pause to say that the intro was f**king amazing.
All the best
Ali
This movement deserves an exhibition caseback. 🤤
I miss your watch duels 🥺
I am working on bringing them back!
Thank you for reminding me.
Best regards,
TGV
TGV! I have one of these, the jeweller told me it was aluminium with a diashield coating! Greetings from Australia! Stay safe
Might be the coolest introduction I’ve ever seen. You need to be hired by Hollywood’s best productions
What a watch! I'm not even into Seikos and I'd have one! That blue is just so tasteful and regal.
That intro was absolutely amazing; the addition of Samurai Champloo was perfect. Keep up the good work TGV!
Ohh samurai champloo in the intro...sickest soundtrack!
Such a good show
I can appreciate what Seiko is doing I've always been a Seiko fanboy whether I like it or not is another story. I absolutely love this watch but I almost wish they made one for more of a mass market because that is one of the things I loved about seiko's their ability reproduce a great watch at a great price. However I believe they've earned the right to create a higher-end watch that commands the price of their Swiss counterparts they definitely truly are masters of The Craft. I think your video help me put it in perspective whereas we enjoyed great watches at great prices from Seiko I like that they are taking their brand to a much more luxurious level. I sure hope they don't forget about us Seiko 5 Guys in the process
Love the intro, mixing in some Samurai Champloo.
I came across something I think would be up your alley. How would one go about sending you something as a gift in a small thanks for all that you do?
This day pro diver use dive computer like what Suunto makes.
People now buying dive watches for the look. ;)
Well.... of course
Absolutely 100% classic Sieko looks. All around stunner.
I think it's great that Seiko borrowed the teal blue from the Vostok Amphibia scuba dude.
The perfect Seiko. Simply wonderful. Celebrate their history. I’m happy to have the 149. I’ll buy one of these one day.
When a TGV intro is better than 99% of the crap on cable... always brilliant
I have an SKX009j, sold my SMPc300 and never looked back. Seiko delivers. They are robust. They are iconic. I love it. I would and seriously should sell everything and grab a Prospex LX SNR029, what a beauty of a beast - The Ultimate Seiko - in my opinion.
That is a bold and heart warming comment. Thank you Taylor and as for the SNR029, YESSSSSS!!!!
A true beast of the deep.
Best regards,
TGV
The Urban Gentry I prefer my custom Seiko SKX007 😉.
Almost first! So original, such great intros. There is only one TGV.
Thank you Michael :D
Best regards,
TGV
@@theurbangentry Champloo intro. My man. 👍
@@theurbangentry i domt know how you manage to come out with even more stunning intros than the last ones.. it is so incredible... :) Keep it up.. question.. did you ever make an episode why you moved to The US ? Would love to know why you left europe :) greetz from germany.. btw my new episode about my ultra rare hamilton Arri field watch is beeing released today ^^
The highest quality channel on RUclips by a wide margin. Bravo sir.
@@williamkerr1059 defintelly best channel ever ^^ .. inspired me to start my own channel with a different aproach to watch collecting.. :)
I gotta be honest, couple years ago I didn’t like watching the intros, but now, it’s the thing I am excited about when watching each TGV videos.
I love his intros. I do beg to differ with his statement that Seiko "pioneered" the high beat movement. I think the people at Zenith would have something to say about that.
Agreed
That little clip of testimony at the end of the intro really hit home. Both of my beloved grandparents wore a seiko until their dying day, and I have them both. My name is on the back of my grandfather’s watch, from when I gave it to him 5+ years before his death.
I keep coming back to this video, and it‘s torturing me :D
it is a crime that 037 doesn't come with steel bracelet as an option ...
That Samurai Champloo intro was amazing!!
"The sweater-over-the-shoulder" crowd.
I feel personally attacked.
Triggered! And then never a Seiko. Daddy's old Sub👍🍺
I've seen him with a sweater over his shoulders poncing about 😂
At last I own one, blown away can not stop looking at it
I love that the watch doesn’t have the Prospex logo on the dial because I really dislike it.
It’s a beautiful watch! Very mid century in design!
YESSSSSS!!!! You are spot on. It's such a clean dial layout, I love it.
Thank you Paco,
Best regards,
TGV
I wonder if they realize how much money that logo has lost them.
That's the exact reason I went for a second hand SARB017 over the new prospex version.
Aggnog For a brief second I was thinking about doing a petition online and send them the results!
Phelan I totally get it! Seiko really lost it’s way! First the 5KX instead of giving the deserving updates everyone wanted to the SKX and call it the SKX.2 and now that fugly Prospex logo!
Your reviews are the gold standard for RUclips.
These intros crack me up! Always great to receive a new video from you.
I didnt know I wanted a one watch collection until I saw this video!
Great video production values as always!
I can't imagine looking forward to $1000 services every 5 years. Is that also part of the upscale packaging?
The service mafia will break your knee caps and shatter your sapphire
@@Mister_Phafanapolis take my knees, please not the sapphire!
I've read the service cost 400-500.
Servicing a 8l35is like servicing a 2824, a hundred bucks if you have it done by an independent.
I have this baby for about 2 weeks, bought from AD has all the papers and box. Some watch enthusiasts consider it too expensive, to be fair, it is quite pricey, even more pricey than some Grand Seiko watches. Still, it is a very finely crafted watch from one of the finest brands on the market. A very beautiful piece. I am very happy getting it.
Case of serious brand confusion here. The Seiko brand was for solid tool watches and lower priced but well made (with some quality problems) watches. Grand Seiko was the Lexus luxury brand to the Toyota common person Seiko. My guess is that this watch is simply Seiko selling a high end high priced watch for all of the watch connoisseurs who have very high price watches but wear Seikos as their every day “cheap” watches. Now that watch aficionado has a high price Seiko that to the uninitiated eye looks like a regular Seiko but to those in the know - it’s the ultimate homage model. Just my 2c!
That intro is absolutely marvelous, I feel like I just watched a movie
beautiful watch but the price is absolutely nuts.
Great video as always, but I have to be honest...the price was eye opening. I was going to guess it was an $800 watch. Yes, I admit that’s ignorant of the technology here, but my assumption was simply based on how the watch looks. Given the thickness, the way the bezel looks, the over abundance of high polish and somewhat lack of sophistication of the case design, I would never ever have guessed this was a $6300 watch. Shocking. Honestly my NTH Barracuda looks far more expensive, even though I realize the movement is far inferior.
It seems very clear that you have never handled one of these Seikos in your hand - or you simply don't know much about watches. The quality of these pieces is absolutely outstanding and easily on par with Rolex or Omega and for sure more Blancpain Barakuda than NTH Barracuda ;)
Seiko and TGV get an automatic thumbs up in my book, I already know it’ll be good
No other channel, and I mean none, will I even start to watch the video with an intro more than several seconds. These are sooo good! Look forward to each one you do.
“To celebrate the VW Beetle, we’ve issued this Porsche 918”. I can’t stand Seiko’s mindset these days...
LOL very good.
Thank you Clark,
Best regards,
TGV
The Urban Gentry Excellent review as always, and it’s still a beautiful timepiece however frustrating their business model has become.
Clark W very well put, they keep raising the price and the quality control issues still persist. all the seiko fanboys just accept the poor quality. no other watch company would be given a free pass as seiko has been given.
Seiko has lost me too, though I have bought a few Seiko Presages this year that I love. Prices in general and on the "special or limited ed." has just gone too far up. Orient has pulled me back in, my next watch is probably an Orient Kamasu with red dial or the green one.
All the watch companies have done it, but Seiko gets the bad rep.
Undoubtedly marvelous timepiece, but the video production is totally on par! Yes, I've browsed through the comments already and I know I'm not original here, but I believe credit must be given when due. And you just can't overpraise a work when it simply bleeds quality and passion! Fantastic review!
Thank you, TGV, thank you, good sir!
Thank you so much Igor, I am deeply flattered and inspired my friend.
You have no idea how much I appreciated that.
Onwards and upwards!
Best regards,
TGV
Craaazy intro, love it!
That was one of the best intros I've ever seen in my life.
Good evening TGV! Great intro, great interludes! This is a real hefty diver! It's pricey, of course, but I definetly like this Seiko. The real downside of course is the limitation, as you pointed out correctly. But maybe we are lucky and we will find some of the DNA in more accesible Seikos. Have a great weekend! Best regards!
If I were them I'd sell this under the Grand Seiko Brand, to compete with Tudor BB58 and Omega SM300. Include also snowflake dial versions, and profit. It would require some (and then some) money towards marketing and product placement, but they could have a contender.
$6k is just insane for a Seiko. This is just for a handful of enthusiasts while the rest of us get ourselves a San Martin.
Bravo San Martin.
Did anyone notice that the indices look stamped with rough edges, no side polishing and uneven lume filling. Very underwhelming for a $6,300 watch.
Yes, I was surprised at that for the price the macros should have been cleaner
this is the only blue watch that I like the colour of. I see a watch like this as a masterpiece.
I love the watch but for that price point I might as well get a brand new Omega SMP 300
100%
Yeah I agree, and you’ll get a fantastic bracelet with it. I suppose if you want something “low key luxury,” this is the way to go.
Or a Tudor BB58 for half the price...
Have a Omega Seamaster 300M 42mm shocked my Seiko Turtle limited edition has a 8L55 movement unregulated more accurate than my overhyped Omega Seamaster
Green Erick look at the macros, this has poor quality stamped markers. This price is outrageous. I bet your Seamaster looks great under macro.
The spb051 was a great watch for the money. It was a massive upgrade on most seiko divers. The sla043 which I is cheaper than this high beat movement, is probably the best value one they have made to date. Still expensive for a seiko, but as good as the competition, if not better .
Great review, stunning intro.
I do agree with you, this would have been a prefect watch to extend their range of divers, a great pice for people who can't wear the bigger GS divers. A real shame it's a limited edition.
"well my husband's not around anymore, but my Seiko is!" Lol'd hard. What a badass intro
Calling it a “quartz crisis” is sucking off the Swiss watch mafia. It’s a quartz REVOLUTION that both democratized the wrist watch and made time telling exponentially more accurate.
I like the the positive way you look at it.
Thank you,
Best regards,
TGV
Yeah I tend to agree with that even though I favour mechanical pieces.
I've seen it called 'the'quartz attack', as if technological improvements are somehow aggressive. I see this 'crisis' as the failure of the mechanical watch industry to anticipate and respond to innovation, they are not the victims here.
Samurai Champloo huh...I see you are a man of even more culture than I had previously thought
Would love to see a bit more of this attention to detail and feature set trickle down the price point. Otherwise a cracking review. Thanks TGV!
Took me a while to fully appreciate this one, now it’s a favourite in my collection
Solid video and overview.
I do have to say - GS pricing with far below GS finishing under the loupe for both the face and movement leaves me cold. Cash grab from Seiko for the "limited" obsessed crowd.
Glad to hear you giving Moyer Jewelers a shout out. They are the best. Leah in particular.
In my book With Orient around, Seiko takes a back seat. I purchased a green Kamasu that looks more like a teal, is probably more beautiful than this dial plus its just as substantial. I dig Seiko, but its an easy pass for me anymore
Yep
I am a big orient star fan and collector. Started out with orient (ray 2 and neo) and discovered orient star esp their older models...their dial designs and quality are really something
Dive watch wise, I'll pass on Orient, though, some of their designs are nice if somewhat uninspired. I don't think anyone, IMHO, can hold a candle to Seiko when it comes to dive watches, not Rolex or Omega, etc. However, in checking out their other watches, I studied up on Orient and found that they also have quite the history. I find their other lines more tasteful than Seiko and quite understated in presentation. Orient also seems to have more variety and classic designs than Citizen. I'm about to buy one, a Tri-Star that I like much more than the Seiko SARB, and, inexpensive as it is, actually gives my Ball Limited Edition a run for its money in the "Explorer"-ish watch category. I also think the Bambinos is a little more appealing to me than the Seiko Presage line.
Thats cool, but if u enjoy unaligned chapter rings, rattling bracelets both of which Seiko is known for, thats your company. Just think they forgot what made them popular and forget the quality control
TGV has had the best intros on RUclips for a long time now. It isn't even close.
Seiko: "How do I keep making our watches better with innovative ideas?"
Every other watchmaker: "How do I get them to pay more for the same watch over and over again?"
In this particular case, Seiko is guilty of the later statement, too. They have just released the SLA017 three years ago - the same watch, for 2000€ less.
@@mrk131324 very true
I'm sorry, dear TGV: I can't watch this video. That Seiko is too perfect. I have to save up for a DJ36. Get thee behind me, thou Tempter!
I prefer a custom Seiko SKX007. 😉
$6,300! Is it a grand seiko?
Well no, but...
Is it at least COSC?
Well no, but...
I'm only hating as a coping mechanism for wanting a sla017.
LOL!
Thank you Kyle,
Best regards,
TGV
My Grand Seiko isn’t COSC certified. It keeps time within 2 seconds a month, but no certification.
You have to pay a heavy premium to get rid of that Prospex X on the dial! 🙄
Will Seiko ever listen and start putting it on the crown instead on their regular lines?🤔
Ain't that the truth? For $1,200 you have to put up with a fouled-up "X" dial.
That's where we differ, Seiko is not attempting to reposition by traditional means, but rather attempting to game the market to alter their image, instead of repositioning by offering value for the level of market place they are attempting to secure, because they see that there is a market of ignorant fashion oriented watch wearers. Smacks of jealousy and ingratitude. I'd rather be seen wearing a Casio these days.
This is the best dressy looking dive watch. It was originally designed to be a tool but since the tool development was so primitive and undeveloped, it actually looks like a dress watch with a rotating bezel. Diving bezel and date window is very functional features without getting rid of the dressy style.
As rare as it is and the 4 grand price tag I’d still rather have my Tudor Black Bay 58,sorry TGV
TonySpoons never said it was as good as this watch well done you for not reading my reply properly
So basically you want the name recognition and don't want to pay 4k for a Seiko. Not saying it is a bad thing. I wouldn't myself. Bling Bling.
boy elaborate.
astro boy that’s not accurate at all... Better question why you paying $4,000 for a black bay when a Seamater professional 300m is available for the same price?
Omega has:
- better movement
- equal or better durability
- better history
- better legibility
- better dial options
- better size options
So I thought at first that the intro was the coolest Seiko commercial ever that came up by chance given my watchophile viewing habits. Great stuff TGV!
YES-The price increase is a “total-turn-off”
If I was a watchmaker I would be sending TGV monthly protection payments. Number one watch seller on the net.
Hi TFV
That intro was very creepy; it really made me feel uncomfortable. It like the new Cats movie.
The best watchmaker of the world! How control the gift of time...richt or poor...all materials...only SEIKO !!!
Seiko looking to make fewer watches for more money. Losing interest fast in this company.
I had to pause the video after the intro to write this comment. That intro was sick!!🔥
6k for a plain Jane looking Seiko! Looks like it's a $900 watch...
Re your Seiko Yatchmaster build, one mod i would suggest, Rob, is drilling a center hole in the triangle at the 12oclock position of the bezel ring and mounting a single diamond, even a Lab diamond would be an inexpensive improvement. Seiko's are not a watch that should be blinged but a single element could be interesting.
My custom Seiko SKX007 is better than this IMO. 😉
I was fortunate enough to purchase an SLA 037J When they first were released . It's an absolutely beautiful peice, and definitely one of my favorite divers . Seiko has since come out with the spb149j, as well as 3 more in different colors. For anyone who likes the 037 , the spb 149,'s can fit the bill . Great watches, but I'm afraid you're right about their pricing restructuring.
Wow what an awesome watch! 47.5 lug tip to tip? 39 mm? Us small wristies are in here!!!! It’s a hefty boy!!!! Ever brilliant steel???? I’m in!! Great intro! Currently wearing the SKX KILLER mini Turtle! All the best matey!
HaHa, indeed!!! I wonder how much smaller it will go? What would you say is your fave size?
Thank you for the kind words as always. Always nice to hear from you fellow watch youtuber that actually engages with the me and the rest of the Gentry. All the best to you, keep up the good work.
Best regards,
TGV
The Urban Gentry not sure why that is as your knowledge TGV is superb and are always aproachable !! Top guy that has done so much for Watch enthusiasts honestly. Well!!!! I tried in the Oris Sixty Five 36mm!! Now we’re getting close to the true vintage sizes!!! I don’t think there’s another brand that do new vintage like them! Have you had that watch on your wrist?! Currently consolidating now to make way for it!;)
Best intro on RUclips. I've had this idea for a while. Here it is: Who wants to see a video dedicated just to the evolution of the intros on channel?
The sides of the hour markers should be polished I think, sitting that high, the sides of the hour markers can be seen from all angles. It will add a little to the cost, but so much more to the finishing.
Yes, I noticed that too. So sad 😞
A huge error IMO. Classic Seicrap blunder.
Blown away by the intro brother....hit a feeling I am about to watch a Japanese blockbuster.....
Yep! I just got one. Just an incredible watch. It’s a JDM. One of my favorite watches in my collection
Just got mine 2 weeks ago. The people who talk negative about it because it’s a seiko for 6k have never seen it in person. The only disappointment is seiko didn’t use the new 80hr high beat movement.
I could not agree more!
Enjoy it William, a very classy choice that anyone who really knows watches, and in a wider sense, horology, should be extremely proud of!
Thank you for sharing that, it made me very happy to hear that.
Best regards,
TGV
Intro was sick. Oh and yeah I bought the watch 😂 I love it
a man of class always includes Samurai Champloo in his intros.
TGV I've said it before and I'll say it again... I sold all my Swiss watches (Omega, Tudor and Hamilton) only to focus and collect Seiko and Casio. Japan rule the rost in my mind for watches and on a side note fishing gear... love ya work buddy!
The Samurai Champloo/ Neon Demon intro was a killer move!
That is the most understated beauty I've seen in a watch. I want one.
This is actually my dream watch. It’s super expensive for me. For now I’ll just have to settle for my Casio diver. :)
The intro was NUCLEAR FUSION. amazing.
Just got mine. Your video convinced me I could no longer just admire it through a screen :) Thank you!! Now time to experiment with some straps! I so want to source an SLA017 bracelet for it.
My dude, that was the most insanely sick intro in a long line up of insanely sick intros you’ve done. Watching this with an SBDX017 on my wrist and just appreciating your love of Seiko and your editing prowess.
Love your videos. Decided it was time for my first foray into the SLA series and went for the SLA065. One day I'll visit Japan and get myself either this or the SLA055/57.