I bought the SPB143 when it came out. Tried a bunch of different ways to love the bracelet (bought 2 different clasps, moved around links so the clasp would sit closer to one side, etc.) but my biggest complaint is the lack of taper. The thick links don't help either, but it looks (to my eyes) so unrefined without a taper. I put it on an black/grey stripe Erika's MN Strap and haven't looked back. Its fantastic on it!
Yeah I totally agree with you! the 2mm taper thats present is barely noticeable and 4mm taper for me is the ideal taper amount. Unfortunate the 2mm taper is simply a product of cost savings so that the 18mm clasp can be used with 22mm bracelets as well. I wish strapcode made a 4mm tapered bracelet for it. Although the color difference between the diashield coated case and a non coated bracelet could pose a problem. But a Erikas MN strap on it sounds incredible! I'm glad that this things is such a strap monster bc it makes life a little easier without a bracelet!
I bought the Spb143 almost a year ago and love it! I have owned the Skx, Samurai, Turtle line and this one for me is the perfect Seiko. A keeper for me.
How does the spb 143 compare to your samurai? I currently have a samurai. But the weight on it makes it tough to wear daily since I’m pretty active with both hands at work. Do you agree with the commenters on here about the weight being distributed nicely vs the top heavy samurai?
@@djmarxone Hi, I did not keep the Samurai very long, I really liked it but found it too big and heavy. Cannot compare the feel on the wrist. Personally the Spb143 wears perfect for me, very comfortable, quality finish. I love the classic look. No doubt for me it will remain in my small collection.
@Manny A Thanks for replying and the information! I think it’s time for me to let go of my samurai and go for this watch. I’m glad you are enjoying the spb143!
@@djmarxone I also let go of the samurai. Definitely a robust well built watch but I gifted it to a friend. I'm currently awaiting my SPB143, and i'm sure i'll love it. Such a strap monster!
@@khyoon14 you will love it! I ended up getting the spb 147, has been my daily for the past year. Full of scratches already from living life with it. Great proportions and a strap monster like you said.
I had a completely different experience. I prefer heavier watches and wear my Seamaster SMP at 42mm on weekends. I enjoy the “presence” on my wrist. At the start of the year, I bought a spb147 to fill my Tudor fix. It was almost perfect. Then a bit later a bought the Tudor bbb 43mm, again a heavier watch but not uncomfortable (at least not for me). But I was always wondering, is the spb143 better. Picked it up a month ago and it has been dominating my wrist time. Dare I say it, for me it’s almost the perfect watch. Something about the neutrality of the grey and black just works and because I’m used to heavier watches, this feels light on my wrist. Next step is to downsize my collection, as at this point I know some of my watches I’ll most likely never wear. Anyway, I’m enjoying my watch “happy space” for as long as it lasts.
Ah the 42mm SMP is my single biggest watch selling regret and I definitely want to get one back in the collection! But yeah while I do enjoy my SKXs and my chunky MM300 i do end up with relatively lighter watches on my wrist. I happen to love titanium as well lol so that may play a part in what I said as well. Thats awesome that youve got both the SPB147 and the 143! They really do play two different roles so it makes sense that they are coexisting in your collection. You described the 143 perfectly, the neutrality just works so well and for me I absolutely love grey so this one was a home run from the moment it got released! Yeah, I've got to get going on reconsolidating my collection but yeah might as well enjoy them all while theyre here! I'll be selling my BB58 Blue soon so a spot might be freeing up for the 143!
I've had my 143 for about a year now, and I concur with most of your points regarding QA/QC regarding the bracelet (gaps and all), as well as the surprising weight. I'm not really sure why this thing weighs so much more than expected, but it is certainly annoying when comparing to many other divers that Seiko is hoping to compete with. I would like to bring up additional points of pet peeves when it comes to the 143 regarding movement accuracy and the pip alignment at the 12-hour marker. First, I wish Seiko would stand by their movements more instead of copping out at -15/+25. I mean, is that the standard they are looking for when going upmarket on this watch? I should hope not. I understand that the 6r35 is relatively new, but I don't think consumers should let Seiko off on this accuracy issue. Second, it drives me crazy that my pip doesn't align by half a millimeter. I know it sounds ridiculous as we 99% don't need these clicks to determine life or death dive scenario count downs, but it speaks volumes on Seiko's QA/QC as this is a recurring issue! All these critcisms aside, it is still a damn handsome watch that I love to hate.
I agree with absolutely everything youre saying! Accuracy really ought to be tightened up and guaranteed bc while I get that the vast majority of the time it ends up being accurate but the fact that I could get a watch that loses 15 seconds a day after paying about 1k is just no good. And yeah bezel alignment is the eternal Seiko problem which shouldnt be a problem at the very least for watches at this 1k+ price point. Its not too much to ask for! But youre also right that its just a seriously good looking watch that can make so many people gloss over the issues!
I agree with this, but if Seiko would put a higher end movement in this, and it would be perfectly aligned, with a premium clasp, it's easily a 6k watch, instead of a 1k. Guess what, you already have that watch in the SLA 017.
It's a real insult to longtime customers for Seiko to ask for midmarket prices but have poorer quality than they had at the entry level. Looking hard at those lame brac./clasp combos, the hardlex crystals, and the bezel alignment issue that is so prevalent it has become a running joke.
Uncle's notes: Do you love the 62MAS reissue but hate the bracelet? The new SPB14x Oyster from your favorite Uncle will fix that. Sleek and slender and without those ugly male end links. What's included: One bracelet, one pair of end-links, two pairs of 2.5mm spring bars (one set with custom tips to fix any tolerance issues). Specs: Lug width to Buckle: 20mm / 16mm Length: 180mm Min.length after adjusted : 120mm Clasp : 316L Stainless Steel 16mm Milled Clasp, 3 micro-adjustment holes Thickness: 2.9mm to 2.3mm (thickness tapers) Net Weight: 70 gram Finish: Brushed metal Spring bar diameter: 2.5mm Lug end style : Standard Curved End Adjustment type : 7 removable links-- screw type adjustment Material : 316L Stainless Steel, all solid links (solid end links) SHIPPING INFO RETURN POLICY Share Opens in a new window. Tweet Opens in a new window. Pin it Opens in a new window. Email Opens in a new window. Oyster Bracelet (SPB14x 62MAS Reissue) Regular price £82.00 GBP ADD TO CART Wondering if this product will work with your watch? I do my best to outline compatibility details here so you can ensure a good match. For bracelets, some of the compatible models listed are submitted from my customers, and therefore I can't guarantee the fit will be perfect. Occasionally these matches require some light modifications to fit correctly. I've outlined these steps over on the Bracelet Mods, Tips & Tricks page. Compatible Models Seiko SPB143 Seiko SPB145
After having some time with it I can saw that I like the heft on the wrist, it compact and big at the same time, feels boss. Yes it maybe not as refined as some of the Swiss competitors but Seiko to me has that rugged/beauty vibe that makes them stand out to me.
Interesting observations...when Seiko came out with the SLA017, I thought great... That's a sweet modern day 62MAS, but I knew it would be too much for me. Then came the Sbdc051, an affordable rendition of that 62mas, so I picked it up. Never really liked the arrow hands but whatever I thought it would do... Then not long after came the Spb143, so I picked that one up also. When looking at these two, I prefer the 143 in every way, the size, the finishing, the design, everything is just perfect for me. I never really have a problem with straps, because for 20mm, I always put on Dagaz waffle and have always prefer rubber. I do like Seikos and have pretty much all of the model, not trying to show off but here's the thing. When it comes to weight, my MM300s, BFK, and SPORK are obviously heavy watches they can not be compared to my Darth Tuna, simply because they're just different watches. I don't see weight ever be a problem, when I have a BFK on, I know it's a heavy watch and thats it. I prefer a slightly heavier watch because I can feel it and I know it's there. I swapped out my Sne498 plastic shroud with a metal one, so I can feel a little more presence on the wrist. So what I'm trying to say is that weight is not really in my top 5 when looking for a watch. Unless I'm having a very busy day, sweating, and places to go, then it's time to whipped out the gshock. :)
Great looking watch and great review. I just have such a hard time keeping up with all of Seiko's re-issues, re-imaginations, re-interpretations, updates and re-releases of old models. I have no idea which of the many, many re-boots are any good.
Thank you so much I'm glad to hear that you enjoyed it! Love your videos as well! but lol yeah seiko does go overboard with all their different levels of reinterpretations of past watches but thankfully theyve landed on this new generation of sub 42mm reinterpretations (i think thats what theyre calling them now😂)! I do wish tho that the reissues were a bit less expensive 😬
I literally have no complaints about mine (spb 213). I love the weight of the watch I think its actually perfect. I truly don't notice the gap in the bracelet while wearing it or just watching it tick away.
Uncle's notes: Do you love the 62MAS reissue but hate the bracelet? The new SPB14x Oyster from your favorite Uncle will fix that. Sleek and slender and without those ugly male end links. What's included: One bracelet, one pair of end-links, two pairs of 2.5mm spring bars (one set with custom tips to fix any tolerance issues). Specs: Lug width to Buckle: 20mm / 16mm Length: 180mm Min.length after adjusted : 120mm Clasp : 316L Stainless Steel 16mm Milled Clasp, 3 micro-adjustment holes Thickness: 2.9mm to 2.3mm (thickness tapers) Net Weight: 70 gram Finish: Brushed metal Spring bar diameter: 2.5mm Lug end style : Standard Curved End Adjustment type : 7 removable links-- screw type adjustment Material : 316L Stainless Steel, all solid links (solid end links) SHIPPING INFO RETURN POLICY Share Opens in a new window. Tweet Opens in a new window. Pin it Opens in a new window. Email Opens in a new window. Oyster Bracelet (SPB14x 62MAS Reissue) Regular price £82.00 GBP ADD TO CART Wondering if this product will work with your watch? I do my best to outline compatibility details here so you can ensure a good match. For bracelets, some of the compatible models listed are submitted from my customers, and therefore I can't guarantee the fit will be perfect. Occasionally these matches require some light modifications to fit correctly. I've outlined these steps over on the Bracelet Mods, Tips & Tricks page. Compatible Models Seiko SPB143 Seiko SPB145
The loose fitment of the bracelet end links is not that much of an issue for me. It isn't noticeable on wrist. I'm usually a bracelet guy but I do occasionally like to switch it up. Normally reinstalling a solid end link bracelet is an exercise in frustration with the risk of scratching the lugs or having the spring bar pop out and fly across the room. With the loose end link, this is not an issue. I'm more likely to swap out much more often.
Another SPB147 (SBDC105) owner for over a year, here. Indeed TWI, the gilded "Cappuccino" dial is a different watch, much more suited to an older guy, which I am. I had zero QC issues, but living in a sub-tropical climate, and being on a boat all the time, a bracelet is a must. I sprung for a strapcode super-o, and initially the end links seemed very mismatched (shape wise)….but after seeing other reviews, and comparing to the original bracelet, I got used to it, and I can tell you there is no side gap in the end links...for whatever that's worth to anyone. The 147 comes on a great Seiko rubber strap.
Ah yeah the 147 is definitely an interesting watch for sure definitely has a strong character, id love to see one in person at some point! But thats awesome to hear that the strapcode worked well in the end bc that'll help make the 143 a viable option for me in the future. Although I wish the rubber straps came with the bracelet versions as well because it really is super comfy!
You know I had a SBDC051 when it came out. I really like it but always wished it was a 40mm, then this came out and I was pretty sure I wanted one but never came around to getting it. Until I saw the 147 and now that prices have come down I picked one up. It's the only watched I've ever picked up in person and been truly wowed by it. Just love it. I also got the strapcode bracelet. Not too thick, nice and comfortable except the clasp could be a little better. Anyway, the photos do it no justice. In person it's perfect. I think I never gravitated to the 143, I liked it but seemed dull or cold to me. I was planning on getting one eventually but I'm so glad I opted for the 147, really love the bronze gilding. Not perfect, it's a Seiko, but really impressive.
Appreciate the video and generally I really appreciate that you distinguish yourself by spending time discussing some of the smaller details/issues on the watches you review. Some people may not care about things like bracelet-case tolerances but for those that do actually care, they're not going to find that in another review.
Thank you so much I'm happy to hear that I was able to help out a bit! For me its always the small details that matter the most when it comes to deciding on a watch and unfortunately the small details usually get noticed after the honeymoon phase! So yeah the bracelet tolerances might have been ok at the start when someone's mesmerized by the dial but the bracelet might come to haunt them! Thanks for the support😁
oh wow 1.5mm is actually a huge amount for me and that really could make a big difference!! If this was my watch I would 100% be ordering the case back right now! How did you discover that it worked btw bc it never would have occurred to me? Is this a forum secret or were you just super curious one day lol?
I like modding watches so I have a few spare parts and I got curious 😅. Removing the caseback was REALLY tough though. Also, I purchased the spb143 before the sne and I still enjoy the SNE more 🤣. I'm conflicted about selling the SPB now.
Loool that's awesome! Those are the best minds of discoveries for sure! Yeah the SNE is so incredible so the likelihood of me getting the SPB anytime soon is super slim considering how much more it costs over the SNE vs how much enjoyment I would get vs my SNE. Says alot about the SNE that it's got both of us conflicted about a future with an SPB! (Also your name only just now clicked for me 😂😂😂)
Any issues after installing the slim caseback? I have a slim skx caseback from tokeilabs which looks identical to the namoki one. Just installed it but when I give it the seiko shake I can't hear the rotor moving so I assume it has to do with the slimmer caseback. Any thoughts?
The bracelet is perfectly fine for this price point. Some of you guys are way too fussy. This is a certified dive watch. It is handsome and masculine. Enough said.
Spot on-the first thing you have to do with the SPB143 is get it off that bracelet, which is thick, heavy and does the watch no favours. I bought mine (used) and had the bracelet off the same day. As you say, it’ll strapmonster almost anything, leather, rubber, elastic, Perlon, canvas. I’ve only had mine 2 days but I’m looking forward to running the strap changes.
Thanks for another great review. The one thing that doesn’t bother me is the weight… in fact, I like feeling a watch on my wrist. I frequently wear my Baby Tuna as a daily, which makes the SPB143 feel positively light. 😊 Thanks, again.
I find despite having a JLC and a couple of Omegas… I always pick this up. The weight is a nice bit of heft and is evenly distributed thanks to the solid feeling bracelet- so it’s never top heavy or uncomfortable. Equally when worn in a strap it looks and wears great too. The dimensions, case, bezel action and dial/hands are all great. The clasp is technically a let down but I actually find it adds to the tool watch feel. The movement for me is the only thing I’d change- or regulate. If I could swap this out for an eta/selitta it would be perfect, but at least it has a 3 day power reserve. I’ve never gone that king without wanting to wear it though! Edit- QC has been fine on mine, no alignment issues and luckily for me, the bracelet fitting issue is not something that concerns me. It would do on other watches but this watch feels so tool-ish that luckily it’s fault become endearing.
I can totally see how this is a watch that always ends up on wrist especially considering how many straps it can work with! and yes it is definitely a balanced watch on wrist which helps manage the higher weight and it always felt great on my wrist. I think I would be able to live with the endlink gap if I were to buy it but in a way I'm glad that its not perfect bc it makes it easier for me to convince myself that I dont need it in the future😂😂
Thanks TWI, some interesting thoughts. There is something about a sunburst anthracite dial that just oozes quietly spoken dial quality without screaming "I'm here" to everyone. I have a similar dial on mt TAG F1 caliber 5 and it just works. I've always had a soft spot for Seiko over the years so I keep 1/2 a bloodshot beady eye on them. The bracelets seem to be the weakest link (pun intended) in the watch package, one of my Seiko purchases was actually bought with a strap to swap it out ASAP but others I've accepted. Oddly I do not think I've ever had a Seiko diver, one to ponder in the future.
Thanks Anthony! Yeah the grey dial is wonderful and the sunburst makes it so vibrant despite being such a neutral color. Oh wow I'm surprised that youve never owned a seiko diver despite our very similar taste in watches!! Have you by chance watched my video on the MarineMaster 300? despite it being so different to the Pelagos they are weirdly comparable in terms of how unique an experience they offer to the point that I'll be doing a comparison video on them at some point! Granted its on the expensive side of seiko but its stills so much fun!
@@thewatchidiot It's an odd one that I've not owned a Seiko diver, in fact I didn't realize it until I watched your video. I did comment on the MarineMaster video and got into the Pelagos old pair of comfortable shoes comment. A comparison video would be great. I keep saying to myself that I have enough divers but only last week another Aquis cal 400 41.5 but this time in green landed on my wrist when I already have and love the blue version I got a while back. That moss green coloured bezel combined with a sunburst dial is exquisite. I like the blue and green versions equally but if I'm off to an event where everyone is wearing green I'll have the blue on my wrist. I think the nearest I got to a Seiko diver was a PADI coke bezel.
Ahhhhh yeah that's right I remember the comfortable pair of shoes comment! Yeah I'm definitely going to be doing a comparison video at some point when I can fit it in. But I don't blame you when it comes to the aquis they really do have incredible dials and bezel combos bc they manage to make the standard colors in a much more interesting way! An Aquis for me is way overdue and the new upcycle aquis is looking mighty fine although I do want to get one with the new movement. Oh well let's see what happens!
My wrists are a tad under 8 inches, so I've avoided 40.5 sizes, but if I were to get one, this looks like a real winner. Thanks for the excellent review.
Yeah for your wrist size I think this can do the trick bc it definitely has good wrist presence and the weight adds to the overall experience making it an easy smaller watch to transition to. Awesome to see you commenting here bc your videos on the Tuna played a big role in my decision to get one! I sold it a last year but I'm regretting it so a rebuy seems to be very likely!
@@thewatchidiot Funny you should mention the Tuna. I'm on a trip and have worn my Tuna for 12 days straight. It looks amazing, but I'm not bonding with it because it's quartz. I don't know if I'll keep mine or not. Quartz just doesn't do it for me.
Great video my man, I’m deeply in love with my SPB143. One main reason is the case shape design, I’ve always been in love with the 62MAS design ❤️ keep up the great work man!
Oh thats awesome that youve got one! I have a feeling that this will find its way into my collection some how at some point in the future. I really do think its going to be a watch that will linger in my mind. And the case design is a huge part of it i love how clean the lines are will still looking amazing! And thanks man I'm happy to hear you enjoyed the video!
I usually never comment, but I have the SPB147 and that brown leather strap at 7:01 looks like it would fit perfectly. Could you tell me where u have it from ?
I ordered one today, will I get a strapcode? Who knows. The bracelet looks good and comfortable and the gap on the endlink isn’t a deal breaker to me. I think it’s gonna go great with my samurai manta
a bit bulky for smaller wrists, Seiko SPB317J1 is best suited as a slender watch with an awesome dial almost something between spb143 and captain willard dials…
I sometimes choose to wear this watch iver my sub or sub date or blackbay. Its that good. My only regret is that I didn’t wait till the other dial colors came out. The goldish one is awesome. But this 40.5mm watch is great. Yes a bit heavy but put it on a strap and thats not an issue anymore.
Oh wow thank you so much that really means a lot to me!! I'm so happy to hear that you're enjoying the videos and hopefully more people think of them the way you do😁 thanks for the support Cagatay!
Was at the seiko retailer this morning with intention to buy SPB143J1 but with my wrist being 8.25” it seems a bit too small. What are my options now? Dose seiko made any watch similar to SPB143J1 in 43-45mm? Thank you
Weight reduction on the SPB143 is key. I put an Uncle Seiko oyster style bracelet on my 143, and it took the weight down to 150g (for my 7” wrist). It now wears way better.
I like the case design of the SPB143 but got the SPB213 for its colorway since I have an SKX007. Those are my two divers, the rest are Presages that I feel are more aesthetically pleasing. The SPB143 may have flaws but there will never be an objectively perfect watch. It is still a great watch to add in a rotation.
Yeah there will never be a perfect watch however the bracelet is something that can and should really be improved to hopefully get it on par with many other brands that are much cheaper than Seiko That being said I still love Seiko so despite their problems bc they just have that special something about them! I want Seiko to do better bc they have the potential to be absolutely next level!!
I’m no expert at haggling but you can easily pick this watch up for less than 1200. I have the spb213 variant which just like this watch is also a strap monster. Currently it’s paired with classic green Erika MN strap
oooooo man I love that watch its been tempting me ever since I saw it! The indices look awesome and the tone of the grey is so well done (according to the pics at least). Unfortunately I just know that I wouldnt wear it as much as Id' like to just because im a full on dive watch guy. That being said I would love to review one tho
@@thewatchidiot I saw it in person, it is prospex rated with 200m water resist (which is weird for a watch called alpinist) the grey sunburst is about three times more dynamic than the spb143 and really changes colors when you move your head around. the lumed indicies are symmetrical and they solved the “lume at 3 problem” by pushing the lumed indicies outer edges to a radius beyond the date and moving the seconds track inboard. no more OCD issues. now if it had a dive bezel it would be the perfect watch
Oh dear god I need to try one on immediately then! Man Seiko really knows how to get their dials right! The look of the indices are pretty awesome as well and yeah I always notice the flow of the indices vs the date window so thankfully it's good here!
Please do a comparison video for the SPB143 with the Tudor BB58 925!! Perhaps on aesthetics, versatility, value proposition, etc. WE SERIOUSLY NEED THAT!!! Appreciate if you could do that
Ah yeah that would make for a very interesting comparison for sure bc they are quite similar yet still so different! Good timing bc I was planning on doing a comparison to my BB58 blue for next week! I will try to include more shots and info of the 925 comparison as well but if not then I think it can be a separate video!
I got the spb051 and it's a great watch, but I always wanted the sla017. When the 143 came out I resisted the temptation to get one as I thought the 051 was better value. In the end I got a sla043 and it's beautiful. Got it used but mint and it cost me about double of the price of the 143. I was lucky to pick one up so cheap, but the quality of the sla models are just different gravey. I still think the 143 is a great watch though.
Love the watch! Had it a bit. For the 1k plus the bracelet tolerances are horrendous at the end links. Sold it at the end. Couldn't justify that for the price. The case is amazing amd wears amazing on straps.
Yeah I wish they got the tolerances right or at least anywhere near a regular seiko lol! is saving grace is the fact that its a strap monster but in a weird way I'm glad that the bracelet was bothering me bc it makes it easier to convince myself that I dont need it in the future! 😂
Agree that the end links are basically for a different watch. But, on a tropic rubber, it sings... aftermarket bracelets are an option, but the ones I've tried don't colour match, due to the Diashield coating on the Seiko steel. No regrets, a stunning, simple watch. Thanks for the review.
Yeah its sad considering its a $1200 watch and more so bc it would have been incredible with a seamless bracelet. I havent tried it on a tropic strap but i can imagine it looks great! I'm definitely happy that it works so well with all kinds of straps bc it makes up for the lackluster bracelet. But yeah if I owned this I'm sure I would be as happy as you are with yours. And thank you so much I'm glad you enjoyed the video!
Great video - I'm on the hunt for a new dive watch and pending on the Longines Hydroconquest Ceramic in grey and the SPB143. And thanks to your review - I think I need the SPB143 in first. :)
That would be a really cool comparison to do bc the hydroconquest is a watch ive been wanting to try on but have to do so! But I'm glad I was able to help out a little bit bc the SPB143 really was spectacular!
this watch is very interesting but after looking at my sbdc051 for about 18 months and just getting a NOS mm300 sbdx017 marinemaster, I think I have any my seiko dive watches covered
Ah yeah if you already love your SBDC051 then it makes sense not to get this one although the SPB143. But thats awesome that you got a NOS SBDX017! Definitely one I was considering when I got my MM300 but I ended up getting the latest SLA021 (SBDX023) just bc the light gold seconds hand really looked weirdly amazing lol. But yeah I think you've got Seiko divers covered with an awesome duo!
@@thewatchidiot that's a beautiful watch as well, but something about the hardlex crystal, the aluminium bezel and the marinemaster text seemed kinda old school.
Yeah that was definitely a big part of the appeal especially the way the full marine master name looked and it had a different clean look with the silver seconds hand. If only I could justify owning two MM300s😂😂
I think the perfect look/strap for this style diver is a good, quality, rubber waffle strap. I say that being a bracelet guy myself. I never have cared much for the look of the end links and the way they transition to the case. I would switch it out and just store the original bracelet for if and when I decided to sell it. Just my opinion. Great video!
I agree the bracelet is badly proportioned. The links are far too thick, and the bulky divers extension is unnecessary. What Seiko missed with the bracelet, they made up for with the rubber strap. It’s amazing: Perfectly proportioned thickness, soft and supple feel, comfortable, along with a great sliding steel keeper and beautiful buckle. It’s too bad you didn’t get to try it because it’s as good as the bracelet is bad. It’s the only non-steel OEM strap I wear on any of my watches. It’s that good.
Yeah they were so close to getting the bracelet right! I wish this grey dial version could have been bought with the rubber strap bc then it would have been much easier to justify. I havent tried on this particular new rubber strap although by the looks of it it seems to be the same material as their other higher end accordion rubber strap thats found with the MM300 and Tuna. The accordion straps are incredible so if its the same material then man this 143 could have been an absolute dream for me!
A 4mm taper and this watch is perfect. Seiko notoriously has bezel QC issues and their straps, bracelets are meant to be swapped out so some RUclipsr can claim it is a "strap monster"
nice vid! I have comments and the context being I have the spb143J1 , SNE 569p1 and another Seiko5 diver. Oh and a 3rd Gen SD DeepSea. 1st... I think 143 Is heavy because it's well made and durable. More durable than a Tudor or Rolex! If the weight bothers you.. maybe get a 44mm deepsea on for a week and the strap on your 143 and you will barely know its there. Honestly, I almost never want to truly forget I'm wearing one of my watches... I like little reminders to stop and appreciate them. And if I can swim 2kms with a Deepsea on... The Seiko almost disappears : ) The 143 Bracelet. I really don't think it's all that bad, but mine did come with a 2nd aftermarket one and its Maybe a lil tighter. I can post pics if you like. The bottom line.... The 143 Fawkin rocks. Just buy one, buy a strap, buy an Uncle Seiko but just get one and figure it out : )
I've had the SPB143 for a few months and my only complaint is similar to you, the bracelet. Specifically the end link and the divers extension (I actually like the clasp and the rest of the bracelet). The end links design kinda don't really match, it's pretty obvious that it's a generic bracelet for many of Seiko's divers. The divers extension just feels cheap and clunky, fortunately, I don't really use it so it's just there lol. With that said, the head of the watch is perfect imo and more than makes up for the dislikes. No watch is perfect and the SPB143 is an absolute strapmonster which basically lessen the minus points.
Yeah they were so close to getting the bracelet right! yeah the divers extension is pretty out of the way thankfully but its the same one thats used on watches a quarter of the price which is unfortnate lol. But I agree, the links themselves and the clasp are quite solid and they feel good which is all we can ask for from Seiko it seems! But I am quite glad that Seiko almost never skimps out on finishing the watch head itself bc in the end thats what really matters especially for chronic strap changers like myself! And it doesnt hurt that it works with pretty much every single strap too! I have a sneaking suspicion that this will find its way into my collection at some point in the future whenever it may be
I’m a bracelet guy and had the 147 and purchased the OEM bracelet for it, couldn’t be more annoyed with a Seiko at its price point. I’m sure I’ll still pickup a 143 in a year or two at a significant discount from msrp
I have this watch and can’t feel a weight issue at all. I have the silver face limited edotion and it’s an amazing piece. Yes it has issues but i like it the bracelet jiggles and I like that too I think I pretty much like the entire thing haha
Its awesome to hear that you're enjoying yours so much! The silver dial variant is definitely very cool. Since releasing the video the SPB has grown on me even more and the overall weight is becoming easier to live with. I'm sad that I have to return it!
The problem with Seiko is that too many line up using 4R and 6R movements. They need to jump up to 8L movements then jack up the prices with smaller and thinner cases.
Yeah the price range is a bit too wide for watches using the same movements. Although I would be ok with a 6R movement that is regulated for more expensive watches. Of course the 8L movements would be ideal to use and I do think they should fill in the 2-3k oris price point with more regular production watches with an 8L and higher quality bracelets. I would totally be down to get something in that range!
Not everyone can afford 8L movement Seikos. And there are actually people who would be happy with an affordable Seiko. It makes the brand more endearing because of the variety. I love my SNK, SNZG and SKX along with SARX and SPB.
@@daidojiuji9276 Trust me anyone who buys a 4R and 6R and pays above 1K can afford to buy 8L movement watch for maybe 2-3K. Just a matter of saving up for it. No idiot is going to spend 1K on watch now especially who buys a watch to tell time nowadays? This watch buying has become a toy for men and it a unstoppable addictive hobby. Everyone knows this so I suggest Seiko just up the game if not they are going to be left out behind by all the Swiss brands. Every single Swiss brands anticipates to make movements better and up the price except Seiko just toying with 4R and 6R movements.
I've heard about the weight "issue" from a friend although I haven't worn it for longer than a few minutes. Stunning watch but likely a strap watch the way James Stacey said
yeah thankfully it absolutely sings on pretty much any strap! Other than the first couple days, I've had mine on either a grey nato or the black elastic strap and I've been enjoying the experience much more! Definitely makes me think😂
I can find critical issues of QC, consistency, movements and overall performance of all my watches. Thank you for making a video, i love a good watch but even when i buy a watch, i know i am bound to find something that could have been corrected by the manufacturer but ultimately is overlooked because manufacturers only care about profit$$
Thank you so much I'm glad you enjoyed the video! This would be an amazing start to a collection for sure I'm going to miss it when I have to send it back! What did you end up getting or what are you planning on getting to start things off?
@@thewatchidiot probably this spb143. I’m also eyeing on the Tudor black bay 58. Watches are personal. “It’s A Great investment piece that last for years to come 👍🏽
Lol I made a comparison video between the two last week! But yeah both are awesome just depends on how you feel about them bc like you said watches are very personal
which one is better Tissot T-Sport Seastar 1000 Powermatic 80 Blue Dial Black Rubber or Seiko Prospex SPB125J1 Automatic Black Series? and what is the price of the item
I've never kept the bracelet on a Seiko. I look at a Seiko before purchasing it and line up 10 straps and bracelets that I'm going to wear with it. I'm even more keen on the SPB143 now.
looool yeah My seikos very rarely stay on their original straps and bracelets too they mostly end up on strapcode bracelets if available or the millions of 20mm straps I have looool. That being said the bracelet on my SNE569 is unusually comfortable despite it not being the greatest overall. Thats awesome to hear that you're keen on getting on bc it really is a special watch and it feels like its built for straps!
I have this watch, and yes the bracelet is heavy, BUT it looks fantastic on Grey/Green/Black tropical straps, and waffle straps and nato's etc, its a keep in my collection
Yes absolutely the strapmonsterability is it's saving grace! It works on every single one of my million 20mm straps lol but a green tropic strap does sound very cool so I might get one and give it a go!
I am mostly in agreement with you. I have never worn the bracelet. I immediately took the bracelet off when I got the watch. It unfortunately does look cheap, poorly designed, and ill fitting. I have a Tropic and a leather strap that are amazing on the watch. I just think the style of the watch looks better without a steel bracelet. If I had not found the watch for $900 and then used an Ebay coupon to get me to $850, I would not have made the purchase. I don’t think it’s worth the $1200 they are asking. Especially since the bracelet is a write-off, is a sub $900 watch. Besides all of that, it’s an amazing all around watch. Classic looks and a link to a watch with real heritage.
For me I find visually that the bezel is just a fraction too wide. I wish that they gave it a slimmer bezel like they used on the SLA017 Limited Edition.
Yeah I can totally see what you mean and I think I would have liked it a bit more had it been slimmer as well. the SLA017 proportions are incredible no doubt!
yeahhhh thats super unfortunate considering how perfectly the date window lines up on this version! That being said, another commented here by the name of "P C" actually sourced a non-pip version of the dial and switched out the dial himself! So all is not lost yet!
based on pictures and yt videos, i was hunting for one without the lume at 3. when i saw one in person, with lume at 3, i didn't think it looked that bad as some people say. bought it, and i don't mind the lume at 3 at all. love this watch. but we all have different tastes and that's ok.
Yeah I haven't seen one with the pip either so I might be ok with it (or have no choice when it comes to it lol) but the main thing that really bothered me was when it was fully lumed up. Seeing the pip way off to the right bothered me more than I thought it would! But in the end the watch is so great that I'd be able to live with it I think
@@thewatchidiot yeah, i can understand your concern. as i said, for me i don't mind it at all. and i don't care about the little gap on the bracelet. i guess some people have higher tolerance than others for that japanese wabi-sabi 😅. if the overall package makes me feel good, that's what matters for me. but i can also see how some minor things like that can annoy some people.
The weight equals a nice chunk of Seiko quality, I have mine on a nice grey Geckota suede strap. The bracelet weight and lug gap does not bother me as if it did I'd just sell the bracelet. As for the dilemma in regards to the SNE and the 143 I have both as well and they are both keepers.
Yeah I'm so glad the the SPB's head is so high quality and that its such an amazing strap monster! I would love to own both but I think I love my SNE too much to add the SPB with its issues. If I had gotten the SPB first then it would have made sense to me to get the SNE as well given the lower price. I'm actually kind of happy that the bracelet isnt ideal because its helping me convince myself that I dont need to get the SPB lol!
@@thewatchidiot Just to add more to the mix I've recently purchased the silicon strap from the SPB147 and put it on my SPB143, to put it simply the silicon strap will be on ebay soon and the SPB143 is back on the bracelet.
Seiko should done better. This is almost perfect with the same issue such as alignment etc. Got the SPB239 (63MAS with gilt dial) haven't wear anything else after. Just love the vintage look. Great video again...cheers.
Yeah its just frustrating when they get ALMOST everything right just that final 1-2% lets it down a bit. But yeah its clearly not enough to take away from the awesomeness of their watches! And thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the video!
Good review and like you I think this generation of 62mas homages from seiko (using that word deliberately and correctly) are close to perfect. I was curious to see what your negatives would be and found that again Im weird as I struggle to understand why in a 14 minute video you spent over 3 minute of the review talking about an accessory that can be changed in seconds. Like I said I know Im different - I don't like bracelets, I don't buy bracelets, I change them for rubber straps if I have to buy the bracelet with eh watch and I don't review them. So I've become really aware of how long people end up talking about these really easily replaceable accessories.
Yeah I'm glad that seiko came out with this one! For me the main reason why the bracelet is a big enough problem to talk about is bc in the end a big chunk of the price, $200 of the $1200, so if its going to be something thats never going to be worn and changed out it feels like a bit of a waste! This is a bigger deal for those of us who like watches on bracelets as well bc im sure it can be a deal break for some folks. But thankfully its great on straps which makes up for the bracelet!
I love Seiko designs, their QC issues are maddening though. My wife got a job that will take us on a trip to Japan at some point in the next few years, and I look forward to being able to buy one with a large selection in person, in Japan. Maybe a JDM model, but regardless it'll be cool to buy one in Japan that I can inspect. Great review, this one really is a looker!
Yeah they really ought to step up their QC especially considering its been a problem for quite some time! But i guess they know we wont stop buying from them😂 But thats awesome that you'll be going to Japan soon! I want to go there so badly but the timing never lined up. YES buying a JDM watch is an absolute requirement! It'll be so cool to see all kinds of extra watches that never leave their shores all in person too. Also which watch do you think you'll wear for your trip? Im already freaking out and cant decide which seiko I would wear for my nonexistent trip😂
@@thewatchidiot I think I will probably wear my Kinetic gray ghost in titanium from 2002. It has a misaligned bezel even being that old, but I just love the way the case, hands and dial and bracelet are executed on that watch. Not flashy or overstated in any situation, and that weird, old hybrid quartz/auto technology speaks to me in a way I think you have to be a watch enthusiast to understand, most people don't get it. And I will bring the G-Shock for workouts and scuba diving! The QC thing is quite maddening with Seiko, as you stated their designs are just so amazing that you can almost live with them. We love to hate and hate to love them at the same time, I think they will eventually get it together.
That watch sounds awesome! I'm a sucker for titanium would you happen to have the reference number? Id love to see what it looks like! But it does sound like a great choice for a trip back to its origins and gshock makes for an amazing duo😁 I agree with you and fingers crossed that they gets the QC smoothed out soon!!
@@thewatchidiot certainly, it's 5M63-0B40. Mine is a 2002 and says "Kinetic" Titanium Scuba 200M on the dial, the earlier ones said AGS (for automatic generating system). There is a guy on eBay in British Columbia, Canada who sells these older Seikos with a pretty good selection. It is less common to find them on the bracelet, I see more of them on NATO or rubber straps but they do come up on the bracelet regularly enough that you will be able to find one, not super rare.
loool "it might be flawed but I cant deny I want one" applies to sooooo many Seikos😂😂 But yeah it is definitely an incredible watch and thank you so much I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the video!
the sne looks nice, but 38.5mm case diameter is too small imo - also it's solar 🤔 Good video though, I'm glad you mentioned the gap in the end links. I'm wondering if that's a deal breaker for me cos I never experienced that before. Though it seems it's more of an intentional design choice rather than a QC issue, question is how I'll like it in person.
I think this watch would be PERFECT together with the 8L35 marine master movement. The 6R35 is a like a hit or miss movement unfortunately. I love the looks regardless.
yeah that would be an amazing pairing especially because that would most likely mean an upgraded bracelet to go along with the higher price point! Unfortunately the prices on the 62MAS reissue limited editions are just too steep. An 8L35 version of this would be a nice bridge in between the SPB143 and the super high end
Bloody hell.... end of the day tiredness on wrist because of the bracelet? I'm a much leaner chap than you and I don't even notice it. It's thicker, yes. But I wouldn't say it fatigues the wrist. The fitment on the willard bracelet is even worse. I had to move it on because of this.
Yeah they make good stuff for sure but just the thought of me dropping a watch on the ground raised my heart rate so I can only imagine the few seconds of terror you felt before you saw it was all good! Actually, something similar happened to me with my quartz seiko diver chronograph. I used to keep the watch head in the shower so that i can check the time but of course with my soapy hands i dropped it and it landed right on the soap bar stand thing that is usually found on bath tubs. It was about a 2 feet drop and it was quartz so while I did freak out I did think that there would be some sort of physical damage. After getting my glasses i picked up the watch and it didnt even have a slight scratch. but the ceramic soap bar stand had a MASSIVE crater where the watch landed. Seiko - 1, Ceramic stand - 0
Yeah at the moment its looking that way for sure. To this day i love looking at it and I dont see that stopping anytime soon! However i feel like the SPB will always be lingering in the back of my mind 😂
The visual presentations of the watch is everything, bezel, hands, color application, materials, bracelet and final fit of all components is cery important specifically because the MSRP is well over $1100++ dollars. Can i put the seiko against other divers like the Christopher Ward which cost less and say, Seiko is a superior product on paper as well as visually, i am sure you will not hesitate and say The Underdog CW comes out on top over the Seiko in terms of quality, fit and materials. Why does Seiko allow such sloppy products to leave their factories? Is it the fault of the consumer for just accepting mediocrity? Let me know your thoughts.
I have the SPB147 and it's beautiful. There are no alignment issues and there's nothing "sloppy" about it. The internet does tend to make us say silly things sometimes. Those are my thoughts.
@@BeatPoet67 my friend bought a rolex sub from 2005, when he bought it he did not realized from the pictures that there were issues with the watch. Until the watch was delivered and years later he compared it to my Rolex which was bought brand new and then he noticed crown misalignment.
Totally with you here, I quickly returned my spb143 because it just wasn't the watch I wanted to be, even though I loved the way it looks. I picked up an SNE and love it, it's not perfect but at about 40 percent the cost, all forgivable!
we're on the same page! The SNE is my favorite watch of the year, it just hits the right marks for me. all we need now is strapcode or uncle seiko to make a bracelet for it!
Yeah the rubber strap on yours looks really good and really comfy as well! I wish Seiko gave us the option to choose between the strap and the bracelet for all the watches
ooooooo the san martin version is pretty awesome and its been on my radar for quite some time! How are you liking it and how does it feel on wrist? Also do you have the version with the bracelet? Hows the bracelet if you have it?
Considering how many times I mentioned the Seiko SNE569P1 here lol, heres a link to the review: ruclips.net/video/zrR5B8LBsvM/видео.html
I have a submariner, panerai and longines but after owning this 2 weeks ago this has been my daily driver.
Still daily it after two years?
I bought the SPB143 when it came out. Tried a bunch of different ways to love the bracelet (bought 2 different clasps, moved around links so the clasp would sit closer to one side, etc.) but my biggest complaint is the lack of taper. The thick links don't help either, but it looks (to my eyes) so unrefined without a taper. I put it on an black/grey stripe Erika's MN Strap and haven't looked back. Its fantastic on it!
Yeah I totally agree with you! the 2mm taper thats present is barely noticeable and 4mm taper for me is the ideal taper amount. Unfortunate the 2mm taper is simply a product of cost savings so that the 18mm clasp can be used with 22mm bracelets as well. I wish strapcode made a 4mm tapered bracelet for it. Although the color difference between the diashield coated case and a non coated bracelet could pose a problem.
But a Erikas MN strap on it sounds incredible! I'm glad that this things is such a strap monster bc it makes life a little easier without a bracelet!
I bought the Spb143 almost a year ago and love it! I have owned the Skx, Samurai, Turtle line and this one for me is the perfect Seiko. A keeper for me.
How does the spb 143 compare to your samurai? I currently have a samurai. But the weight on it makes it tough to wear daily since I’m pretty active with both hands at work. Do you agree with the commenters on here about the weight being distributed nicely vs the top heavy samurai?
@@djmarxone Hi, I did not keep the Samurai very long, I really liked it but found it too big and heavy. Cannot compare the feel on the wrist. Personally the Spb143 wears perfect for me, very comfortable, quality finish. I love the classic look. No doubt for me it will remain in my small collection.
@Manny A Thanks for replying and the information! I think it’s time for me to let go of my samurai and go for this watch. I’m glad you are enjoying the spb143!
@@djmarxone I also let go of the samurai. Definitely a robust well built watch but I gifted it to a friend. I'm currently awaiting my SPB143, and i'm sure i'll love it. Such a strap monster!
@@khyoon14 you will love it! I ended up getting the spb 147, has been my daily for the past year. Full of scratches already from living life with it. Great proportions and a strap monster like you said.
I had a completely different experience. I prefer heavier watches and wear my Seamaster SMP at 42mm on weekends. I enjoy the “presence” on my wrist. At the start of the year, I bought a spb147 to fill my Tudor fix. It was almost perfect. Then a bit later a bought the Tudor bbb 43mm, again a heavier watch but not uncomfortable (at least not for me). But I was always wondering, is the spb143 better. Picked it up a month ago and it has been dominating my wrist time. Dare I say it, for me it’s almost the perfect watch. Something about the neutrality of the grey and black just works and because I’m used to heavier watches, this feels light on my wrist. Next step is to downsize my collection, as at this point I know some of my watches I’ll most likely never wear. Anyway, I’m enjoying my watch “happy space” for as long as it lasts.
Ah the 42mm SMP is my single biggest watch selling regret and I definitely want to get one back in the collection! But yeah while I do enjoy my SKXs and my chunky MM300 i do end up with relatively lighter watches on my wrist. I happen to love titanium as well lol so that may play a part in what I said as well.
Thats awesome that youve got both the SPB147 and the 143! They really do play two different roles so it makes sense that they are coexisting in your collection. You described the 143 perfectly, the neutrality just works so well and for me I absolutely love grey so this one was a home run from the moment it got released! Yeah, I've got to get going on reconsolidating my collection but yeah might as well enjoy them all while theyre here! I'll be selling my BB58 Blue soon so a spot might be freeing up for the 143!
Ya love mine too. What would you let go?
I've had my 143 for about a year now, and I concur with most of your points regarding QA/QC regarding the bracelet (gaps and all), as well as the surprising weight. I'm not really sure why this thing weighs so much more than expected, but it is certainly annoying when comparing to many other divers that Seiko is hoping to compete with. I would like to bring up additional points of pet peeves when it comes to the 143 regarding movement accuracy and the pip alignment at the 12-hour marker. First, I wish Seiko would stand by their movements more instead of copping out at -15/+25. I mean, is that the standard they are looking for when going upmarket on this watch? I should hope not. I understand that the 6r35 is relatively new, but I don't think consumers should let Seiko off on this accuracy issue. Second, it drives me crazy that my pip doesn't align by half a millimeter. I know it sounds ridiculous as we 99% don't need these clicks to determine life or death dive scenario count downs, but it speaks volumes on Seiko's QA/QC as this is a recurring issue!
All these critcisms aside, it is still a damn handsome watch that I love to hate.
I agree with absolutely everything youre saying! Accuracy really ought to be tightened up and guaranteed bc while I get that the vast majority of the time it ends up being accurate but the fact that I could get a watch that loses 15 seconds a day after paying about 1k is just no good. And yeah bezel alignment is the eternal Seiko problem which shouldnt be a problem at the very least for watches at this 1k+ price point. Its not too much to ask for! But youre also right that its just a seriously good looking watch that can make so many people gloss over the issues!
I agree with this, but if Seiko would put a higher end movement in this, and it would be perfectly aligned, with a premium clasp, it's easily a 6k watch, instead of a 1k.
Guess what, you already have that watch in the SLA 017.
It's a real insult to longtime customers for Seiko to ask for midmarket prices but have poorer quality than they had at the entry level. Looking hard at those lame brac./clasp combos, the hardlex crystals, and the bezel alignment issue that is so prevalent it has become a running joke.
I put mine on a uncle seiko bracelet,
It tapers down from 20 mm to 16 mm ,
It looks gorgeous now.
Uncle's notes:
Do you love the 62MAS reissue but hate the bracelet? The new SPB14x Oyster from your favorite Uncle will fix that. Sleek and slender and without those ugly male end links.
What's included:
One bracelet, one pair of end-links, two pairs of 2.5mm spring bars (one set with custom tips to fix any tolerance issues).
Specs:
Lug width to Buckle: 20mm / 16mm
Length: 180mm
Min.length after adjusted : 120mm
Clasp : 316L Stainless Steel 16mm Milled Clasp, 3 micro-adjustment holes
Thickness: 2.9mm to 2.3mm (thickness tapers)
Net Weight: 70 gram
Finish: Brushed metal
Spring bar diameter: 2.5mm
Lug end style : Standard Curved End
Adjustment type : 7 removable links-- screw type adjustment
Material : 316L Stainless Steel, all solid links (solid end links)
SHIPPING INFO
RETURN POLICY
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Oyster Bracelet (SPB14x 62MAS Reissue)
Regular price
£82.00 GBP
ADD TO CART
Wondering if this product will work with your watch? I do my best to outline compatibility details here so you can ensure a good match.
For bracelets, some of the compatible models listed are submitted from my customers, and therefore I can't guarantee the fit will be perfect.
Occasionally these matches require some light modifications to fit correctly. I've outlined these steps over on the Bracelet Mods, Tips & Tricks page.
Compatible Models
Seiko SPB143
Seiko SPB145
After watching so many Videos from you with this one made me subscribe finally. Great review!
After having some time with it I can saw that I like the heft on the wrist, it compact and big at the same time, feels boss. Yes it maybe not as refined as some of the Swiss competitors but Seiko to me has that rugged/beauty vibe that makes them stand out to me.
What are the Swiss competitors?
@@niyarparashar8492 wrote that in the honeymoon phase, moved the watch along since
Interesting observations...when Seiko came out with the SLA017, I thought great... That's a sweet modern day 62MAS, but I knew it would be too much for me. Then came the Sbdc051, an affordable rendition of that 62mas, so I picked it up. Never really liked the arrow hands but whatever I thought it would do... Then not long after came the Spb143, so I picked that one up also. When looking at these two, I prefer the 143 in every way, the size, the finishing, the design, everything is just perfect for me. I never really have a problem with straps, because for 20mm, I always put on Dagaz waffle and have always prefer rubber. I do like Seikos and have pretty much all of the model, not trying to show off but here's the thing. When it comes to weight, my MM300s, BFK, and SPORK are obviously heavy watches they can not be compared to my Darth Tuna, simply because they're just different watches. I don't see weight ever be a problem, when I have a BFK on, I know it's a heavy watch and thats it. I prefer a slightly heavier watch because I can feel it and I know it's there. I swapped out my Sne498 plastic shroud with a metal one, so I can feel a little more presence on the wrist. So what I'm trying to say is that weight is not really in my top 5 when looking for a watch. Unless I'm having a very busy day, sweating, and places to go, then it's time to whipped out the gshock. :)
Great looking watch and great review. I just have such a hard time keeping up with all of Seiko's re-issues, re-imaginations, re-interpretations, updates and re-releases of old models. I have no idea which of the many, many re-boots are any good.
Thank you so much I'm glad to hear that you enjoyed it! Love your videos as well! but lol yeah seiko does go overboard with all their different levels of reinterpretations of past watches but thankfully theyve landed on this new generation of sub 42mm reinterpretations (i think thats what theyre calling them now😂)! I do wish tho that the reissues were a bit less expensive 😬
Have it since Friday. This is absolute badass!
I literally have no complaints about mine (spb 213). I love the weight of the watch I think its actually perfect. I truly don't notice the gap in the bracelet while wearing it or just watching it tick away.
Uncle's notes:
Do you love the 62MAS reissue but hate the bracelet? The new SPB14x Oyster from your favorite Uncle will fix that. Sleek and slender and without those ugly male end links.
What's included:
One bracelet, one pair of end-links, two pairs of 2.5mm spring bars (one set with custom tips to fix any tolerance issues).
Specs:
Lug width to Buckle: 20mm / 16mm
Length: 180mm
Min.length after adjusted : 120mm
Clasp : 316L Stainless Steel 16mm Milled Clasp, 3 micro-adjustment holes
Thickness: 2.9mm to 2.3mm (thickness tapers)
Net Weight: 70 gram
Finish: Brushed metal
Spring bar diameter: 2.5mm
Lug end style : Standard Curved End
Adjustment type : 7 removable links-- screw type adjustment
Material : 316L Stainless Steel, all solid links (solid end links)
SHIPPING INFO
RETURN POLICY
Share
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Tweet
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Oyster Bracelet (SPB14x 62MAS Reissue)
Regular price
£82.00 GBP
ADD TO CART
Wondering if this product will work with your watch? I do my best to outline compatibility details here so you can ensure a good match.
For bracelets, some of the compatible models listed are submitted from my customers, and therefore I can't guarantee the fit will be perfect.
Occasionally these matches require some light modifications to fit correctly. I've outlined these steps over on the Bracelet Mods, Tips & Tricks page.
Compatible Models
Seiko SPB143
Seiko SPB145
The loose fitment of the bracelet end links is not that much of an issue for me. It isn't noticeable on wrist. I'm usually a bracelet guy but I do occasionally like to switch it up. Normally reinstalling a solid end link bracelet is an exercise in frustration with the risk of scratching the lugs or having the spring bar pop out and fly across the room. With the loose end link, this is not an issue. I'm more likely to swap out much more often.
Another SPB147 (SBDC105) owner for over a year, here. Indeed TWI, the gilded "Cappuccino" dial is a different watch, much more suited to an older guy, which I am. I had zero QC issues, but living in a sub-tropical climate, and being on a boat all the time, a bracelet is a must. I sprung for a strapcode super-o, and initially the end links seemed very mismatched (shape wise)….but after seeing other reviews, and comparing to the original bracelet, I got used to it, and I can tell you there is no side gap in the end links...for whatever that's worth to anyone. The 147 comes on a great Seiko rubber strap.
Ah yeah the 147 is definitely an interesting watch for sure definitely has a strong character, id love to see one in person at some point! But thats awesome to hear that the strapcode worked well in the end bc that'll help make the 143 a viable option for me in the future. Although I wish the rubber straps came with the bracelet versions as well because it really is super comfy!
You know I had a SBDC051 when it came out. I really like it but always wished it was a 40mm, then this came out and I was pretty sure I wanted one but never came around to getting it. Until I saw the 147 and now that prices have come down I picked one up. It's the only watched I've ever picked up in person and been truly wowed by it. Just love it. I also got the strapcode bracelet. Not too thick, nice and comfortable except the clasp could be a little better. Anyway, the photos do it no justice. In person it's perfect. I think I never gravitated to the 143, I liked it but seemed dull or cold to me. I was planning on getting one eventually but I'm so glad I opted for the 147, really love the bronze gilding. Not perfect, it's a Seiko, but really impressive.
Appreciate the video and generally I really appreciate that you distinguish yourself by spending time discussing some of the smaller details/issues on the watches you review. Some people may not care about things like bracelet-case tolerances but for those that do actually care, they're not going to find that in another review.
Thank you so much I'm happy to hear that I was able to help out a bit! For me its always the small details that matter the most when it comes to deciding on a watch and unfortunately the small details usually get noticed after the honeymoon phase! So yeah the bracelet tolerances might have been ok at the start when someone's mesmerized by the dial but the bracelet might come to haunt them! Thanks for the support😁
Had the spb143 and loved it. Now I miss it but wearing my new sla021 don’t know why I would buy the spb143 again. Great review
The slim caseback from Namokimods for the skx007 actually fits this perfectly and slims it down 1.5mm which isn't much but actually helps me out a lot
oh wow 1.5mm is actually a huge amount for me and that really could make a big difference!! If this was my watch I would 100% be ordering the case back right now! How did you discover that it worked btw bc it never would have occurred to me? Is this a forum secret or were you just super curious one day lol?
I like modding watches so I have a few spare parts and I got curious 😅. Removing the caseback was REALLY tough though. Also, I purchased the spb143 before the sne and I still enjoy the SNE more 🤣. I'm conflicted about selling the SPB now.
Loool that's awesome! Those are the best minds of discoveries for sure! Yeah the SNE is so incredible so the likelihood of me getting the SPB anytime soon is super slim considering how much more it costs over the SNE vs how much enjoyment I would get vs my SNE. Says alot about the SNE that it's got both of us conflicted about a future with an SPB!
(Also your name only just now clicked for me 😂😂😂)
Any issues after installing the slim caseback? I have a slim skx caseback from tokeilabs which looks identical to the namoki one. Just installed it but when I give it the seiko shake I can't hear the rotor moving so I assume it has to do with the slimmer caseback. Any thoughts?
where can i get it?
Man. I also fell in love at first sight with the SNE when I saw it in person.
The bracelet is perfectly fine for this price point. Some of you guys are way too fussy. This is a certified dive watch. It is handsome and masculine. Enough said.
Spot on-the first thing you have to do with the SPB143 is get it off that bracelet, which is thick, heavy and does the watch no favours. I bought mine (used) and had the bracelet off the same day. As you say, it’ll strapmonster almost anything, leather, rubber, elastic, Perlon, canvas. I’ve only had mine 2 days but I’m looking forward to running the strap changes.
The bracelet is really nice, suits the watch and is very comfortable
Thanks for another great review. The one thing that doesn’t bother me is the weight… in fact, I like feeling a watch on my wrist. I frequently wear my Baby Tuna as a daily, which makes the SPB143 feel positively light. 😊 Thanks, again.
I find despite having a JLC and a couple of Omegas… I always pick this up. The weight is a nice bit of heft and is evenly distributed thanks to the solid feeling bracelet- so it’s never top heavy or uncomfortable. Equally when worn in a strap it looks and wears great too.
The dimensions, case, bezel action and dial/hands are all great.
The clasp is technically a let down but I actually find it adds to the tool watch feel.
The movement for me is the only thing I’d change- or regulate. If I could swap this out for an eta/selitta it would be perfect, but at least it has a 3 day power reserve. I’ve never gone that king without wanting to wear it though!
Edit- QC has been fine on mine, no alignment issues and luckily for me, the bracelet fitting issue is not something that concerns me. It would do on other watches but this watch feels so tool-ish that luckily it’s fault become endearing.
I can totally see how this is a watch that always ends up on wrist especially considering how many straps it can work with! and yes it is definitely a balanced watch on wrist which helps manage the higher weight and it always felt great on my wrist. I think I would be able to live with the endlink gap if I were to buy it but in a way I'm glad that its not perfect bc it makes it easier for me to convince myself that I dont need it in the future😂😂
Thanks TWI, some interesting thoughts. There is something about a sunburst anthracite dial that just oozes quietly spoken dial quality without screaming "I'm here" to everyone. I have a similar dial on mt TAG F1 caliber 5 and it just works. I've always had a soft spot for Seiko over the years so I keep 1/2 a bloodshot beady eye on them. The bracelets seem to be the weakest link (pun intended) in the watch package, one of my Seiko purchases was actually bought with a strap to swap it out ASAP but others I've accepted. Oddly I do not think I've ever had a Seiko diver, one to ponder in the future.
Thanks Anthony! Yeah the grey dial is wonderful and the sunburst makes it so vibrant despite being such a neutral color. Oh wow I'm surprised that youve never owned a seiko diver despite our very similar taste in watches!! Have you by chance watched my video on the MarineMaster 300? despite it being so different to the Pelagos they are weirdly comparable in terms of how unique an experience they offer to the point that I'll be doing a comparison video on them at some point! Granted its on the expensive side of seiko but its stills so much fun!
@@thewatchidiot It's an odd one that I've not owned a Seiko diver, in fact I didn't realize it until I watched your video. I did comment on the MarineMaster video and got into the Pelagos old pair of comfortable shoes comment. A comparison video would be great. I keep saying to myself that I have enough divers but only last week another Aquis cal 400 41.5 but this time in green landed on my wrist when I already have and love the blue version I got a while back. That moss green coloured bezel combined with a sunburst dial is exquisite. I like the blue and green versions equally but if I'm off to an event where everyone is wearing green I'll have the blue on my wrist. I think the nearest I got to a Seiko diver was a PADI coke bezel.
Ahhhhh yeah that's right I remember the comfortable pair of shoes comment! Yeah I'm definitely going to be doing a comparison video at some point when I can fit it in.
But I don't blame you when it comes to the aquis they really do have incredible dials and bezel combos bc they manage to make the standard colors in a much more interesting way! An Aquis for me is way overdue and the new upcycle aquis is looking mighty fine although I do want to get one with the new movement. Oh well let's see what happens!
I’m trying this soon… I’m thinking of shark mesh would be so money!
My wrists are a tad under 8 inches, so I've avoided 40.5 sizes, but if I were to get one, this looks like a real winner. Thanks for the excellent review.
Yeah for your wrist size I think this can do the trick bc it definitely has good wrist presence and the weight adds to the overall experience making it an easy smaller watch to transition to.
Awesome to see you commenting here bc your videos on the Tuna played a big role in my decision to get one! I sold it a last year but I'm regretting it so a rebuy seems to be very likely!
@@thewatchidiot Funny you should mention the Tuna. I'm on a trip and have worn my Tuna for 12 days straight. It looks amazing, but I'm not bonding with it because it's quartz. I don't know if I'll keep mine or not. Quartz just doesn't do it for me.
Great video my man, I’m deeply in love with my SPB143. One main reason is the case shape design, I’ve always been in love with the 62MAS design ❤️ keep up the great work man!
Oh thats awesome that youve got one! I have a feeling that this will find its way into my collection some how at some point in the future. I really do think its going to be a watch that will linger in my mind. And the case design is a huge part of it i love how clean the lines are will still looking amazing! And thanks man I'm happy to hear you enjoyed the video!
I usually never comment, but I have the SPB147 and that brown leather strap at 7:01 looks like it would fit perfectly. Could you tell me where u have it from ?
I ordered one today, will I get a strapcode? Who knows. The bracelet looks good and comfortable and the gap on the endlink isn’t a deal breaker to me. I think it’s gonna go great with my samurai manta
Just found your channel, great original content!
a bit bulky for smaller wrists, Seiko SPB317J1 is best suited as a slender watch with an awesome dial almost something between spb143 and captain willard dials…
I sometimes choose to wear this watch iver my sub or sub date or blackbay. Its that good. My only regret is that I didn’t wait till the other dial colors came out. The goldish one is awesome.
But this 40.5mm watch is great. Yes a bit heavy but put it on a strap and thats not an issue anymore.
Hello sir,
Your content is excellent. I follow various watch channels on youtube and i must say you are one of the best. Keep it up, all the best.
Oh wow thank you so much that really means a lot to me!! I'm so happy to hear that you're enjoying the videos and hopefully more people think of them the way you do😁 thanks for the support Cagatay!
Was at the seiko retailer this morning with intention to buy SPB143J1 but with my wrist being 8.25” it seems a bit too small. What are my options now? Dose seiko made any watch similar to SPB143J1 in 43-45mm? Thank you
Weight reduction on the SPB143 is key. I put an Uncle Seiko oyster style bracelet on my 143, and it took the weight down to 150g (for my 7” wrist). It now wears way better.
It weighs 180 total right? The uncle Seiko bracelet brought it down to 150? Wow
I like the case design of the SPB143 but got the SPB213 for its colorway since I have an SKX007. Those are my two divers, the rest are Presages that I feel are more aesthetically pleasing. The SPB143 may have flaws but there will never be an objectively perfect watch. It is still a great watch to add in a rotation.
Yeah there will never be a perfect watch however the bracelet is something that can and should really be improved to hopefully get it on par with many other brands that are much cheaper than Seiko
That being said I still love Seiko so despite their problems bc they just have that special something about them! I want Seiko to do better bc they have the potential to be absolutely next level!!
I’m no expert at haggling but you can easily pick this watch up for less than 1200. I have the spb213 variant which just like this watch is also a strap monster. Currently it’s paired with classic green Erika MN strap
Any suggestions on similar styled alternatives?
3:40 have you tried the grey sunburst dial seiko laurel alpinist (unlimited edition)?
oooooo man I love that watch its been tempting me ever since I saw it! The indices look awesome and the tone of the grey is so well done (according to the pics at least). Unfortunately I just know that I wouldnt wear it as much as Id' like to just because im a full on dive watch guy. That being said I would love to review one tho
@@thewatchidiot I saw it in person, it is prospex rated with 200m water resist (which is weird for a watch called alpinist) the grey sunburst is about three times more dynamic than the spb143 and really changes colors when you move your head around. the lumed indicies are symmetrical and they solved the “lume at 3 problem” by pushing the lumed indicies outer edges to a radius beyond the date and moving the seconds track inboard. no more OCD issues.
now if it had a dive bezel it would be the perfect watch
Oh dear god I need to try one on immediately then! Man Seiko really knows how to get their dials right! The look of the indices are pretty awesome as well and yeah I always notice the flow of the indices vs the date window so thankfully it's good here!
Please do a comparison video for the SPB143 with the Tudor BB58 925!! Perhaps on aesthetics, versatility, value proposition, etc. WE SERIOUSLY NEED THAT!!! Appreciate if you could do that
Ah yeah that would make for a very interesting comparison for sure bc they are quite similar yet still so different! Good timing bc I was planning on doing a comparison to my BB58 blue for next week! I will try to include more shots and info of the 925 comparison as well but if not then I think it can be a separate video!
I got the spb051 and it's a great watch, but I always wanted the sla017. When the 143 came out I resisted the temptation to get one as I thought the 051 was better value. In the end I got a sla043 and it's beautiful. Got it used but mint and it cost me about double of the price of the 143. I was lucky to pick one up so cheap, but the quality of the sla models are just different gravey. I still think the 143 is a great watch though.
Is the strap gap due to the strap being under sized or the case strap cut out being too wide?
I wanted to buy one , but I suffer with ocd . And that gap on the bracelet I can’t handle. Great review thanks very much.
Love the watch! Had it a bit. For the 1k plus the bracelet tolerances are horrendous at the end links. Sold it at the end. Couldn't justify that for the price. The case is amazing amd wears amazing on straps.
Yeah I wish they got the tolerances right or at least anywhere near a regular seiko lol! is saving grace is the fact that its a strap monster but in a weird way I'm glad that the bracelet was bothering me bc it makes it easier to convince myself that I dont need it in the future! 😂
Agree that the end links are basically for a different watch. But, on a tropic rubber, it sings... aftermarket bracelets are an option, but the ones I've tried don't colour match, due to the Diashield coating on the Seiko steel. No regrets, a stunning, simple watch. Thanks for the review.
Yeah its sad considering its a $1200 watch and more so bc it would have been incredible with a seamless bracelet. I havent tried it on a tropic strap but i can imagine it looks great! I'm definitely happy that it works so well with all kinds of straps bc it makes up for the lackluster bracelet. But yeah if I owned this I'm sure I would be as happy as you are with yours. And thank you so much I'm glad you enjoyed the video!
Great video - I'm on the hunt for a new dive watch and pending on the Longines Hydroconquest Ceramic in grey and the SPB143. And thanks to your review - I think I need the SPB143 in first. :)
That would be a really cool comparison to do bc the hydroconquest is a watch ive been wanting to try on but have to do so! But I'm glad I was able to help out a little bit bc the SPB143 really was spectacular!
this watch is very interesting but after looking at my sbdc051 for about 18 months and just getting a NOS mm300 sbdx017 marinemaster, I think I have any my seiko dive watches covered
Ah yeah if you already love your SBDC051 then it makes sense not to get this one although the SPB143. But thats awesome that you got a NOS SBDX017! Definitely one I was considering when I got my MM300 but I ended up getting the latest SLA021 (SBDX023) just bc the light gold seconds hand really looked weirdly amazing lol. But yeah I think you've got Seiko divers covered with an awesome duo!
@@thewatchidiot that's a beautiful watch as well, but something about the hardlex crystal, the aluminium bezel and the marinemaster text seemed kinda old school.
Yeah that was definitely a big part of the appeal especially the way the full marine master name looked and it had a different clean look with the silver seconds hand. If only I could justify owning two MM300s😂😂
Just picked up the sne571. What’s your favorite diver at the moment?
I think the perfect look/strap for this style diver is a good, quality, rubber waffle strap. I say that being a bracelet guy myself. I never have cared much for the look of the end links and the way they transition to the case. I would switch it out and just store the original bracelet for if and when I decided to sell it. Just my opinion. Great video!
I agree the bracelet is badly proportioned. The links are far too thick, and the bulky divers extension is unnecessary. What Seiko missed with the bracelet, they made up for with the rubber strap. It’s amazing: Perfectly proportioned thickness, soft and supple feel, comfortable, along with a great sliding steel keeper and beautiful buckle. It’s too bad you didn’t get to try it because it’s as good as the bracelet is bad. It’s the only non-steel OEM strap I wear on any of my watches. It’s that good.
Yeah they were so close to getting the bracelet right! I wish this grey dial version could have been bought with the rubber strap bc then it would have been much easier to justify. I havent tried on this particular new rubber strap although by the looks of it it seems to be the same material as their other higher end accordion rubber strap thats found with the MM300 and Tuna. The accordion straps are incredible so if its the same material then man this 143 could have been an absolute dream for me!
A 4mm taper and this watch is perfect. Seiko notoriously has bezel QC issues and their straps, bracelets are meant to be swapped out so some RUclipsr can claim it is a "strap monster"
nice vid! I have comments and the context being I have the spb143J1 , SNE 569p1 and another Seiko5 diver. Oh and a 3rd Gen SD DeepSea. 1st... I think 143 Is heavy because it's well made and durable. More durable than a Tudor or Rolex! If the weight bothers you.. maybe get a 44mm deepsea on for a week and the strap on your 143 and you will barely know its there. Honestly, I almost never want to truly forget I'm wearing one of my watches... I like little reminders to stop and appreciate them. And if I can swim 2kms with a Deepsea on... The Seiko almost disappears : )
The 143 Bracelet. I really don't think it's all that bad, but mine did come with a 2nd aftermarket one and its Maybe a lil tighter. I can post pics if you like.
The bottom line.... The 143 Fawkin rocks. Just buy one, buy a strap, buy an Uncle Seiko but just get one and figure it out : )
I've had the SPB143 for a few months and my only complaint is similar to you, the bracelet. Specifically the end link and the divers extension (I actually like the clasp and the rest of the bracelet). The end links design kinda don't really match, it's pretty obvious that it's a generic bracelet for many of Seiko's divers. The divers extension just feels cheap and clunky, fortunately, I don't really use it so it's just there lol. With that said, the head of the watch is perfect imo and more than makes up for the dislikes. No watch is perfect and the SPB143 is an absolute strapmonster which basically lessen the minus points.
Yeah they were so close to getting the bracelet right! yeah the divers extension is pretty out of the way thankfully but its the same one thats used on watches a quarter of the price which is unfortnate lol. But I agree, the links themselves and the clasp are quite solid and they feel good which is all we can ask for from Seiko it seems!
But I am quite glad that Seiko almost never skimps out on finishing the watch head itself bc in the end thats what really matters especially for chronic strap changers like myself! And it doesnt hurt that it works with pretty much every single strap too! I have a sneaking suspicion that this will find its way into my collection at some point in the future whenever it may be
I’m a bracelet guy and had the 147 and purchased the OEM bracelet for it, couldn’t be more annoyed with a Seiko at its price point. I’m sure I’ll still pickup a 143 in a year or two at a significant discount from msrp
I have this watch and can’t feel a weight issue at all. I have the silver face limited edotion and it’s an amazing piece. Yes it has issues but i like it the bracelet jiggles and I like that too I think I pretty much like the entire thing haha
Its awesome to hear that you're enjoying yours so much! The silver dial variant is definitely very cool. Since releasing the video the SPB has grown on me even more and the overall weight is becoming easier to live with. I'm sad that I have to return it!
The problem with Seiko is that too many line up using 4R and 6R movements. They need to jump up to 8L movements then jack up the prices with smaller and thinner cases.
Yeah the price range is a bit too wide for watches using the same movements. Although I would be ok with a 6R movement that is regulated for more expensive watches. Of course the 8L movements would be ideal to use and I do think they should fill in the 2-3k oris price point with more regular production watches with an 8L and higher quality bracelets. I would totally be down to get something in that range!
Not everyone can afford 8L movement Seikos. And there are actually people who would be happy with an affordable Seiko. It makes the brand more endearing because of the variety. I love my SNK, SNZG and SKX along with SARX and SPB.
@@daidojiuji9276 Trust me anyone who buys a 4R and 6R and pays above 1K can afford to buy 8L movement watch for maybe 2-3K. Just a matter of saving up for it. No idiot is going to spend 1K on watch now especially who buys a watch to tell time nowadays? This watch buying has become a toy for men and it a unstoppable addictive hobby. Everyone knows this so I suggest Seiko just up the game if not they are going to be left out behind by all the Swiss brands. Every single Swiss brands anticipates to make movements better and up the price except Seiko just toying with 4R and 6R movements.
I've heard about the weight "issue" from a friend although I haven't worn it for longer than a few minutes. Stunning watch but likely a strap watch the way James Stacey said
yeah thankfully it absolutely sings on pretty much any strap! Other than the first couple days, I've had mine on either a grey nato or the black elastic strap and I've been enjoying the experience much more! Definitely makes me think😂
I like your channel because we have the same size wrist.
I can find critical issues of QC, consistency, movements and overall performance of all my watches. Thank you for making a video, i love a good watch but even when i buy a watch, i know i am bound to find something that could have been corrected by the manufacturer but ultimately is overlooked because manufacturers only care about profit$$
Great video man!!! I wanted to get this as a start of a watch collection or a 1 watch collection.
Thank you so much I'm glad you enjoyed the video! This would be an amazing start to a collection for sure I'm going to miss it when I have to send it back! What did you end up getting or what are you planning on getting to start things off?
@@thewatchidiot probably this spb143. I’m also eyeing on the Tudor black bay 58. Watches are personal. “It’s A Great investment piece that last for years to come 👍🏽
Lol I made a comparison video between the two last week! But yeah both are awesome just depends on how you feel about them bc like you said watches are very personal
I have the spb207j , while the bracelet is good (for seiko) the rubber strap turns this into a killer watch I'm loving mine :)
which one is better Tissot T-Sport Seastar 1000 Powermatic 80 Blue Dial Black Rubber or Seiko Prospex SPB125J1 Automatic Black Series? and what is the price of the item
I've never kept the bracelet on a Seiko. I look at a Seiko before purchasing it and line up 10 straps and bracelets that I'm going to wear with it. I'm even more keen on the SPB143 now.
looool yeah My seikos very rarely stay on their original straps and bracelets too they mostly end up on strapcode bracelets if available or the millions of 20mm straps I have looool. That being said the bracelet on my SNE569 is unusually comfortable despite it not being the greatest overall. Thats awesome to hear that you're keen on getting on bc it really is a special watch and it feels like its built for straps!
I have this watch, and yes the bracelet is heavy, BUT it looks fantastic on Grey/Green/Black tropical straps, and waffle straps and nato's etc, its a keep in my collection
Yes absolutely the strapmonsterability is it's saving grace! It works on every single one of my million 20mm straps lol but a green tropic strap does sound very cool so I might get one and give it a go!
I totally agree with you on the sne569p1. Just got mine last week. Absolutely stunning watch 😬.
yesssss the SNE569 is definitely a stunner for sure i'm still surprised by how much i love it lol!
I am mostly in agreement with you. I have never worn the bracelet. I immediately took the bracelet off when I got the watch. It unfortunately does look cheap, poorly designed, and ill fitting. I have a Tropic and a leather strap that are amazing on the watch. I just think the style of the watch looks better without a steel bracelet. If I had not found the watch for $900 and then used an Ebay coupon to get me to $850, I would not have made the purchase. I don’t think it’s worth the $1200 they are asking. Especially since the bracelet is a write-off, is a sub $900 watch. Besides all of that, it’s an amazing all around watch. Classic looks and a link to a watch with real heritage.
For me I find visually that the bezel is just a fraction too wide. I wish that they gave it a slimmer bezel like they used on the SLA017 Limited Edition.
Yeah I can totally see what you mean and I think I would have liked it a bit more had it been slimmer as well. the SLA017 proportions are incredible no doubt!
The thing that's upsetting is, if you buy a new one, you get the version with a lume pip at 3 o'clock =(
yeahhhh thats super unfortunate considering how perfectly the date window lines up on this version! That being said, another commented here by the name of "P C" actually sourced a non-pip version of the dial and switched out the dial himself! So all is not lost yet!
based on pictures and yt videos, i was hunting for one without the lume at 3. when i saw one in person, with lume at 3, i didn't think it looked that bad as some people say. bought it, and i don't mind the lume at 3 at all. love this watch. but we all have different tastes and that's ok.
Yeah I haven't seen one with the pip either so I might be ok with it (or have no choice when it comes to it lol) but the main thing that really bothered me was when it was fully lumed up. Seeing the pip way off to the right bothered me more than I thought it would! But in the end the watch is so great that I'd be able to live with it I think
@@thewatchidiot yeah, i can understand your concern. as i said, for me i don't mind it at all. and i don't care about the little gap on the bracelet. i guess some people have higher tolerance than others for that japanese wabi-sabi 😅. if the overall package makes me feel good, that's what matters for me. but i can also see how some minor things like that can annoy some people.
You mean aluminum bezel right?
No, it's actually circular brushed steel.
The weight equals a nice chunk of Seiko quality, I have mine on a nice grey Geckota suede strap. The bracelet weight and lug gap does not bother me as if it did I'd just sell the bracelet. As for the dilemma in regards to the SNE and the 143 I have both as well and they are both keepers.
Yeah I'm so glad the the SPB's head is so high quality and that its such an amazing strap monster! I would love to own both but I think I love my SNE too much to add the SPB with its issues. If I had gotten the SPB first then it would have made sense to me to get the SNE as well given the lower price. I'm actually kind of happy that the bracelet isnt ideal because its helping me convince myself that I dont need to get the SPB lol!
@@thewatchidiot Just to add more to the mix I've recently purchased the silicon strap from the SPB147 and put it on my SPB143, to put it simply the silicon strap will be on ebay soon and the SPB143 is back on the bracelet.
Lol yeah the bracelet still manages to feel great after everything that's wrong with it!
Hey, like your content and presentation.
Thanks man, really happy to hear you're enjoying the channel!
ok...this is the 3rd time I've watched this review. Guess I'm getting it.
Loooool that's a good sign for sure! Did you end up getting it?? If you did, what do you think of it?
You still love the sne569?
Seiko should done better. This is almost perfect with the same issue such as alignment etc. Got the SPB239 (63MAS with gilt dial) haven't wear anything else after. Just love the vintage look. Great video again...cheers.
Yeah its just frustrating when they get ALMOST everything right just that final 1-2% lets it down a bit. But yeah its clearly not enough to take away from the awesomeness of their watches! And thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the video!
I actually love this bracelet. I have it in my Willard and I love the style and presence. I like your watch
looks kinda small on your wrist, is it smaller than SKX?
Good review and like you I think this generation of 62mas homages from seiko (using that word deliberately and correctly) are close to perfect. I was curious to see what your negatives would be and found that again Im weird as I struggle to understand why in a 14 minute video you spent over 3 minute of the review talking about an accessory that can be changed in seconds.
Like I said I know Im different - I don't like bracelets, I don't buy bracelets, I change them for rubber straps if I have to buy the bracelet with eh watch and I don't review them. So I've become really aware of how long people end up talking about these really easily replaceable accessories.
Yeah I'm glad that seiko came out with this one! For me the main reason why the bracelet is a big enough problem to talk about is bc in the end a big chunk of the price, $200 of the $1200, so if its going to be something thats never going to be worn and changed out it feels like a bit of a waste! This is a bigger deal for those of us who like watches on bracelets as well bc im sure it can be a deal break for some folks. But thankfully its great on straps which makes up for the bracelet!
I love Seiko designs, their QC issues are maddening though. My wife got a job that will take us on a trip to Japan at some point in the next few years, and I look forward to being able to buy one with a large selection in person, in Japan. Maybe a JDM model, but regardless it'll be cool to buy one in Japan that I can inspect. Great review, this one really is a looker!
Yeah they really ought to step up their QC especially considering its been a problem for quite some time! But i guess they know we wont stop buying from them😂 But thats awesome that you'll be going to Japan soon! I want to go there so badly but the timing never lined up. YES buying a JDM watch is an absolute requirement! It'll be so cool to see all kinds of extra watches that never leave their shores all in person too.
Also which watch do you think you'll wear for your trip? Im already freaking out and cant decide which seiko I would wear for my nonexistent trip😂
@@thewatchidiot I think I will probably wear my Kinetic gray ghost in titanium from 2002. It has a misaligned bezel even being that old, but I just love the way the case, hands and dial and bracelet are executed on that watch. Not flashy or overstated in any situation, and that weird, old hybrid quartz/auto technology speaks to me in a way I think you have to be a watch enthusiast to understand, most people don't get it. And I will bring the G-Shock for workouts and scuba diving!
The QC thing is quite maddening with Seiko, as you stated their designs are just so amazing that you can almost live with them. We love to hate and hate to love them at the same time, I think they will eventually get it together.
That watch sounds awesome! I'm a sucker for titanium would you happen to have the reference number? Id love to see what it looks like! But it does sound like a great choice for a trip back to its origins and gshock makes for an amazing duo😁
I agree with you and fingers crossed that they gets the QC smoothed out soon!!
@@thewatchidiot certainly, it's 5M63-0B40. Mine is a 2002 and says "Kinetic" Titanium Scuba 200M on the dial, the earlier ones said AGS (for automatic generating system). There is a guy on eBay in British Columbia, Canada who sells these older Seikos with a pretty good selection. It is less common to find them on the bracelet, I see more of them on NATO or rubber straps but they do come up on the bracelet regularly enough that you will be able to find one, not super rare.
Thanks for the info! They look cool for sure and I think I'll keep an eye out for them and I'll see what happens!
That's the thing with seiko I really don't want to see what they're going to come out with in the future. I have enough seikos already.
Im 2yrs late but can you still purchase it
It might be flawed but I can't deny that I want one. Absolutely beautiful imo. Nice work with the review 👍
loool "it might be flawed but I cant deny I want one" applies to sooooo many Seikos😂😂 But yeah it is definitely an incredible watch and thank you so much I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the video!
@@thewatchidiot absolutely agree. I reviewed the samurai manta ray on my channel and it had loads of qc problems but I still want one.
Oh nice the manta ray variants are awesome! Despite the qc issues where else are we going to find a dial like that!😂
YES I'VE BEEN WAITING
SAME HERE MAN!!! Literally since the day it was released last summer lol😁😁
Добрый. Какой у тебя размер запястья?
the sne looks nice, but 38.5mm case diameter is too small imo - also it's solar 🤔 Good video though, I'm glad you mentioned the gap in the end links. I'm wondering if that's a deal breaker for me cos I never experienced that before. Though it seems it's more of an intentional design choice rather than a QC issue, question is how I'll like it in person.
Spb143 best seiko in years. Seriously
I think this watch would be PERFECT together with the 8L35 marine master movement. The 6R35 is a like a hit or miss movement unfortunately. I love the looks regardless.
yeah that would be an amazing pairing especially because that would most likely mean an upgraded bracelet to go along with the higher price point! Unfortunately the prices on the 62MAS reissue limited editions are just too steep. An 8L35 version of this would be a nice bridge in between the SPB143 and the super high end
Got lucky with my 6r very good
I adore my Seiko SPB143
I totally get why you do bc its a seriously special watch!
Wrist tired?
There are No perfect watches.There are No perfect watches.There are No perfect watches.
looool i repeat that in the corner of my room rocking away in the fetal positions😂
@@thewatchidiot I write that in blood on the walls of my room while endlessly scrolling Chrono24 😂
This is a very old model in the video. Newer versions have lume at 3
SPB all the way. I have the 147 and 149 and love them.
Thats awesome that youve got both versions! definitely sounds like you enjoying the SPB!
Bloody hell.... end of the day tiredness on wrist because of the bracelet? I'm a much leaner chap than you and I don't even notice it. It's thicker, yes. But I wouldn't say it fatigues the wrist.
The fitment on the willard bracelet is even worse. I had to move it on because of this.
Seiko makes a good watch, I dropped my turtle on the kitchen floor and thought oh shit that's broken but it was fine.
Yeah they make good stuff for sure but just the thought of me dropping a watch on the ground raised my heart rate so I can only imagine the few seconds of terror you felt before you saw it was all good!
Actually, something similar happened to me with my quartz seiko diver chronograph. I used to keep the watch head in the shower so that i can check the time but of course with my soapy hands i dropped it and it landed right on the soap bar stand thing that is usually found on bath tubs. It was about a 2 feet drop and it was quartz so while I did freak out I did think that there would be some sort of physical damage.
After getting my glasses i picked up the watch and it didnt even have a slight scratch. but the ceramic soap bar stand had a MASSIVE crater where the watch landed. Seiko - 1, Ceramic stand - 0
@@thewatchidiot my stomach turned upside down for a second lol
@@thewatchidiot lol
Definitely, the SNE is the right one for you.
Yeah at the moment its looking that way for sure. To this day i love looking at it and I dont see that stopping anytime soon! However i feel like the SPB will always be lingering in the back of my mind 😂
The visual presentations of the watch is everything, bezel, hands, color application, materials, bracelet and final fit of all components is cery important specifically because the MSRP is well over $1100++ dollars. Can i put the seiko against other divers like the Christopher Ward which cost less and say, Seiko is a superior product on paper as well as visually, i am sure you will not hesitate and say The Underdog CW comes out on top over the Seiko in terms of quality, fit and materials. Why does Seiko allow such sloppy products to leave their factories? Is it the fault of the consumer for just accepting mediocrity? Let me know your thoughts.
I have the SPB147 and it's beautiful. There are no alignment issues and there's nothing "sloppy" about it. The internet does tend to make us say silly things sometimes. Those are my thoughts.
@@BeatPoet67 my friend bought a rolex sub from 2005, when he bought it he did not realized from the pictures that there were issues with the watch. Until the watch was delivered and years later he compared it to my Rolex which was bought brand new and then he noticed crown misalignment.
Totally with you here, I quickly returned my spb143 because it just wasn't the watch I wanted to be, even though I loved the way it looks. I picked up an SNE and love it, it's not perfect but at about 40 percent the cost, all forgivable!
we're on the same page! The SNE is my favorite watch of the year, it just hits the right marks for me. all we need now is strapcode or uncle seiko to make a bracelet for it!
I got the SPB147J1 which comes on a rubber strap and it’s awesome. Check it out
Yeah the rubber strap on yours looks really good and really comfy as well! I wish Seiko gave us the option to choose between the strap and the bracelet for all the watches
I put mine on a rubber strap and it’s so much better
That's a small gap for a man but a huge gap for mankind! I was all ready to buy this model but am not so sure now.
I have the San Martin version of this, think I will keep it around to avoid buying this Seiko.
ooooooo the san martin version is pretty awesome and its been on my radar for quite some time! How are you liking it and how does it feel on wrist? Also do you have the version with the bracelet? Hows the bracelet if you have it?
@@thewatchidiot Functionally the bracelet is fine, does feel a bit unrefined with some sharp edges.
Overall I like the watch a lot.
Ah ok good to know hopefully it'll improve with a V5 eventually! Either way I still think I'll get one at some point!