I bought the Samurai as my first automatic watch as a high school graduation gift to myself. Ive had it for over a year and it is still by far my favorite watch. I love its angular case shape.
Was just having that little moment of realisation that you get sometimes as a watch enthusiast, about how happy inexpensive watches can make one. Just thinking about all the pleasure my Seiko SARB035, SARB017 and SNA411 have given me and then you post this! So looking forward to watching it, keep up the excellent work TGV, love this channel!
@@brianmsahin Lovely watch! I'll definitely be getting a G-Shock myself eventually, probably a DW5600E-1V. Can go even cheaper than your G-Shock, love my Casio F91-W, hehe! ;o)
i had that same experience with the sarb033, only the seiko was on the other end of it. bought a vostok for 70 dollars and have enjoyed that far more even though it is objectively worse.
@@---Nicolas--- My Casio F91-W remains the only watch which garners positive comments and attention for me :) Iconic and a fave for less than a tenner - can't go wrong there!
I still love my original orange monster purchased in 2011. Still going strong on NATO at the moment. A summer watch that makes it into the rotation every now and again. Thanks TGV!
So you should, such a cool watch!!! I bet it will increase in value so much now, it will be a pleasure to see the annoyance of the watch snobs and Seiko haters 🤣🤣🤣 Thank you Mike, wear it with pride. Best regards, TGV
I bought the Samurai when travelling in Japan 3 years ago. It stills my everyday watch since! I love it and I feel something is missing when I am not wearing it…As a big fan of this watch and based on my everyday experience, I absolutely agree with your analysis! 😉 Thank you very much for this video of my loved watch!! 🤩
That monster with black bezel looks stunning, compared to the original stainless steel bezel. I liked the samurai better with its more modern and a more sleeker design, but that monster does look awesome!
Comparisons at the price point are a difficult field that being said they are fascinating with how TGV “dives” in. I would love to see a Japan vs Swiss vs German divers under $1500. Or perhaps maybe we could just discuss your book collection. Love the content as always!
Almost 2 years since I got my first watch: the Samurai great white (SRPD23). Absolutely love the angles, which if the sun hits them (top part of the lugs and the pyramids on the bezels edge) just right, will turn on a built in disco-ball-mode. Not to forget the shades of blue, which are dependent on the light - from navy blue to a light vibrant blue. And something that Ive not seen on a watch - if the watch is pointed towards a light source, the bezel insert will look like its glowing. This watch with Zuludiver jaywick jaquard weave NATO is just a great summer combo. Otherwise I wear it with other Zuludiver NATO straps or the leather zulus Ive made. One of the contributors to the purchase was the Samurai review video on this channel. Thanks TGV!
Rare to get someone talking about the Monster rather than just banging on about how perfect the Turtle is the whole time. I'm a Seiko fan because of your endorsements, and I picked the Monster as my first Seiko so this is right in my wheelhouse!
@@oscarosullivan4513 I have a Europe only Seiko Turtle with the anthracite gray dial (same color dial as the original 62MAS) that has a partiularly "scrunchy" crown that I don't entirely trust (I actually take my watches into the water). My watchmaker doesn't think there's anything wrong with it, but, he says I can just replace the crown and that will probably take care of my concerns. I have too many watches as it is and just don't want to bother. If you want, I'll send it to you just to give it a good home. I think the bracelet is long gone, but I can throw in a nice NATO strap or 2.
Love both of these watches! Love your reviews! I’ve just received a King Turtle Save The Ocean on a silicone strap and I absolutely love it! I’m becoming a Seikopath with my eyes on a Samurai! Also looking for a gold dial Pogue! What a great chronograph that is!
I'm definitely leaning towards the Monster, though I really like the design of both. I wish the Samurai were just a smidge smaller, but as a Seiko diver, the size is pretty much par for the course. Of course, I just ordered one of the new Seiko 5s--I never had an SKX, but I love all the new Seiko 5 variants and the homage they pay to the SKX. Unlike some, I couldn't care less that they aren't "true" divers--I use my diver's 100% as elapsed time devices for tracking everyday tasks.
As many of us are cost conscious with our watch purchases, I really appreciate the review on great quality pieces that won’t get me in trouble at the house!!
I'm excited watching this because my wife's just ordered me the white Islander Monster ISL-56 for Christmas. I've always wanted a Monster. I'd obviously like to see the comparison to the Islander 😉
First time for me watching your content with headphones on. The sound is sooo good. Back ground music and your soothing voice really helped me chill after a stressful day. Thank you.
Got the SRP775 about 6 years ago. It has been my only watch and I love it more every day. The bracelet broke, got a rubber strap, broke to, finally on a NATO strap. Glass and case are scratched, bezel changed color, it has been consistently gaining 45s a day on any position, never regulated or serviced. Awesome watch.
Out of all of the Seiko re-issues I would say the Samurai is the one they get right most of all maybe even an improvement on the original version. Save the Ocean and orange dialled models particularly impressive looking. Love the older monsters more than the recent releases which are a bit conservative.
Love that your channel really does cover the spectrum of watches for the average enthusiasts. From seiko, to fortis, to rolex, everything is covered. Keep it up bud! Also, waiting for that tgv x longisland collab watch ;)
Agreed! Love your videos. They have a laid back lounge feel about them. Very calming and giving to watch 🙂 Cant wait for the Dino diver, Model: H (for "Hugo" of course) 😁👍
Concerning mechanisms involving metal pieces I once read the description "oily precision", then referring to the gear lever in a car. Getting that kind of well-crafted feedback can indeed be very satisfying.
I have had cheap screw links strip, back out and just outright refuses to go in. These Seiko bracelets are horrid for many other reasons, but the pin and collars are perfectly fine.
I have a 007 and I bought the 2019 PADI Samurai and I then I bought the monster orange dial. The Samurai is just so perfect short lug to lug, hacking and hand winding, solid end links and it looks killer on a nato. I wore it everyday until I got my Citizen ny0040-17le. That dual color lume on the Samurai the blue and green is just too awesome.
I lean towards the monster. I have a monster black series, it wears smaller especially in the Pvd black. That bezel is nice on it & wears beautifully on my 7.25” wrist.
The white dial king Samurai was my first automatic watch purchase. It’s finished beautifully with a quality rubber dive strap. I’ve since moved on to smaller watches but it still gets some wrist time. Since you mentioned the 6R movement, I took the plunge on the spb147 (62 mas reissue). This is another level. The size & design is spot on and has the 70hr power reserve. I’d love to see you review the spb147 maybe compared to a Tudor Black Bay? I was obsessing over a black Bay for ages, but the seiko has killed that urge! Keep up the great work!
From the two I prefer design of Samurai because it feels a bit more grown-up/serious and also I have 7.2" wrist. But today grasps the diver's throne under 500 USD SEIKO's King Turtle all the way. Its "Save the ocean" versions look phenomenal and call for getting into water.
Thanks for the comparison Tristano. 👍 When trying to choose between the Samurai or Monster a few months back, I ended up with the Monster (SRPE09K). As you observed with the bracelet, if you don't have strong fingers nails, you can forget trying to open that divers extension. I think too much sake was consumed during that design work! Out of the box, it was averaging a consistent -14 secs/day over a 2 week period, but once regulated I got it down to just over -1 sec/day average. I will likely revisit the regulation to get it into a positive number, as it is much easier to reset the time when running fast. All-in-all I'm pleased with yet another addition to my ever-growing Seiko collection.
I got my Titanium Samurai SBDA 001, right after getting the 40th Anniversary SKZ205, also in Titanium. Both have never been opened and are going just fine. Thought quite a lot about getting a Monster but never pulled the trigger. Saw one for around $400 AU...still thinking. Always a great history and review.
The first seiko I ever bought was the same 1 you reviewed in this video, saw it in a seiko retailer while on Japan and had no knowledge on this model or any other watches to be honest, this watch is what started my collection and the moment I saw it I had to have it. this domestic jdm version I got will stick with me forever, thanks for the amazing reivew tgv you're the best !
I have the exact Samurai. I bought it from Long Island watch for $394 and bonus, it says 'made in Japan '. It is a fantastic watch the bracelet notwithstanding. The aesthetics are perfect and watch runs an avg +4.6sec/day. I think it would be very cool to do a history video and explain the watches that various famous personages ( US Grant; Horatio Nelson; Napoleon; Rob Roy etc would wear if today's watches were available to them.Your channel is the best, TGV and i know you are so very busy so I really want to say thanks for making them.The historical context which you provide for the watches you review is so interesting. Huzzah!
I have the King Samurai with the black waffle dial. I love that the case design is so different to most and as a huge fan of industrial design the sharp, brushed edges just look so good.
I received a Samurai as a uni graduation gift a few months ago and absolutely love it! One thing I would recommend watching for; there are Samurais with non-Japanese movements for a slightly lower price. Personally, I don’t think it’s worth it, especially for a Seiko at this price point. Get one with a Japanese movement.
Great video as always. I have owned a Samurai for a couple of years now and I still enjoy wearing it. I swapped out the strap and went for a navy colour rubber and I feel it is so much better. I would however I'm sure find a space in my box to own a Monster.
Jim Little is perfectly rigth. I very much enjoyed the intro, the review and Tristano doing another marvellous job although the two tickers left me cold! Thanks sir !
I’ve been going back and watching/rewatching your watches in movies series, some of my favourite videos of yours for sure. It got me thinking, it would be interesting to do a series on movies/movie characters who don’t wear iconic watches and speculate on what they would wear. Like for example, what would Indiana Jones wear in the original films set just before the outbreak of WW2? Would it be a dress watch for his professor role or would it be something slightly more durable like a pilots watch of the era? Or what watch would Kurt Russel wear in The Thing? Just some thoughts! Keep it up.
Best seiko diver ive owned the samurai and the 4th gen monster. I have the bezel scratched up on my monster and it looks just right. Looks great scratched up.
Got the King Samurai last year and I really like it. actually, when you wear it on a leather strap (Gecko) it gets a more versatile look. I think it’s a bit more tasteful than the Monster. But hey, too each their own.
Marc at Island Watch has a really nice Strapcode bracelet for the Samurai called the “Boyer”, that has a “hexad” link shape that’s really fitting for the design of the watch. It’s about $115, but if you like the Samurai it’s worth it.
Excellent point! Not to mention that Marc also sells Monster and Samurai-esque watches of his own that address many if not most of the shortcomings of the Seiko models.
I bought the new Monster from Moyer when it was brand new, hot off the press, when i was in Noblesville IN for a concert in June 2019. I hadn't even seen press photos of it yet but i instantly fell in love and bought it. Im on vacation right now, and wearing that very watch by chance. Great video!
I got the "dark manta" King Samurai a couple weeks ago, and I couldn't be happier with it! It's a beautiful watch and it wears very comfortable on the wrist.
Good evening TGV! Great to have this in depth review of the Samurai and the Monster. From pictures, always imagined the Monster to be a very hefty wristwatch, but seeing both watches side by side, the Monster looks quite wearable with lots of wrsitpresence. Have a great evening!
Thank you Heiko, truth be told, these are my favorite videos to make, I just love talking and learning about Seiko. Regarding your concerns about the Monster, it wear so much smaller, if a little chubby, I am sure you would enjoy it. Have a great rest of the weekend my friend. Best regards, TGV
Love Seiko and love all your videos! You are by far my favorite channel and love how in-depth you go across the range of brands regardless of 'status'. Many kudos!
I’m a gen 1-3 monster collector. Love the design….perfect for me. They have better bracelets too. The gen 4 monsters miss the mark on so many levels. It seems like they tried to “upscale” the design. Anyhoo…great video, as usual!
Excellent video, TGV! Thanks so much for putting it all out there for us. I personally have never been drawn much to either the Samurai or Monster, but it was wonderful learning so much about both. I honestly think that these are quite capable & special pieces, but I don’t find either compelling enough to buy. If I wants Seiko history, I would probably get a Turtle, as you mentioned….but if I want a newer diver…I would spend the money elsewhere. I think I probably is just simply the looks are so polarizing and for the money now you can get sooooo much more. Regardless, if you love the look….I don’t think you’ll find much like it, so they are both unique. I can’t wait to see the new Speedtimers to be honest! That is going to be special! You should compare the Speedtimer to the Intramatic or the Lorier and Speedgraf. Thank you, as always, my friend. Hope you are well. Onwards and upwards!
Thank you TGV for another wonderful review! I personally really love Seiko, it is one of my most favorite brands! Stay Healthy and Well! Have a Great Day! Nicholas
I have a black dial and love it 🥰 . Was planning on the blue with the bracelet but couldn't resist the black with resin strap for the money . I found it for WAY less money
My favorite of all time is always been the Orange 🍊Monster first generation, I paid $ 59,00 dollars, 17 years ago and I loved it ,I still enjoy it till this day.....yeah you right we need better movement's...great review on this two iconic pieces..👍👍👊..
I Love wearing my Samurai. I can't see the appeal of the Monster and would get a Turtle before as I'm sure it's more Comfortable on easier on the Eyes. I have been wearing a Captain Willard homage a lot though and the Case Shape makes it easy to wear.
I’ve been wearing the “Sea” Monster for almost 5 years now and I hope to wear it for the rest of my life. I used to always fantasize about having a larger collection but now I only want this
I got that same Samurai as an impulse buy not long ago. You are right about the bracelet. I like how it looks on the watch but sizing it was such a PAIN! Its not like regular pinned bracelets, this one had some kind of special little sleeve that was extremely easy to lose. And yes, it adds so much weight! I ended up putting it on an Uncle Seiko tropic strap and… wow, it just made a world of difference. It suits it perfectly, and I think it dresses it up a bit as well while actually making it more sporty at the same time.
I like the old monsters personally I’m just not a cyclops fan unless it’s on a date just. The samurai dial really does it for me both are great watches and I’d be happy to have both
I cannot choose, so I have both! Black coated Samurai Save the Ocean and Monster Pinguin. Samurai has a more industrial look and feel, while the dial of the monster is so cool. Love both watches and put them both on a NATO strap. Thanks for the video.
As always I love Seiko. I took a Seiko 5 SNXS75 with a handmade suede strap to Paris the other week. Not a dive watch but the Grey dial and brown strap went so well with the autumn colours of the city.🍂🍁. Great video as always sir 👍
I’ve just got myself a King Samurai with the sapphire crystal, cyclops and ceramic bezel insert. In a few days time I’ll also have a King Monster in my collection. I’ll report back on the FB group with my opinions on the two side by side!
“…making it seem somewhere between a creation of H.R. Giger mixed with late 1970s brutalist Soviet architecture” - a perfect description of the Monster… and yet, I do love it. God help me, I do love it so.
Love my old Seiko’s SKX’s and just picked up a King Turtle and can’t wait to wear it. Looking for some nice NATO straps to compliment it…. Great video as well!
I recently got the black dial version of the monster with the rubber strap for my 40th birthday. I really love and am happy with this watch (yes that includes the cyclops), although I have felt like a bit of a contrarian with how little it is covered and talked about in comparison to other options. So to see this talked about in depth by not only my favourite watch channel but the one that got me first interested in watches literally made my day. Also the rubber strap option is very comfortable and looks great on this watch but I have heard on smaller wrists it is a bit long leaving a lot of tail on the end. So worth keeping that in mind if someone goes for that option and has smaller wrists.
I absolutely love my PADI Monster 4th Gen. I upgraded to a double domed sapphire crystal and had it regulated. It’s easily my favourite watch at the moment. It sits so well on the wrist.
No ...no ..no.... this unbelievable EPIC INTRO .... what can i say !!! I'm lovin' it ...... just lovin'it. Now the question is , how and why u never reviewed the latest Seiko samurai SRPR33... IT'S THE BEST EVER !!
Hands down my favorite watch channel, excellent reviews and comparisons. And I like how you stay away from watch world drama. Seiko what a great bang for the buck 👍
Sir, may I say that you look fantastic :) beside doing an awesome job teaching us about the history of these beautful watches. Sending you much love, health, respect and appreciation from Austria.
One thing seiko drivers have is personality plus! Not only do they have a variety of designs but they each stand out, and are easily recognizable. this is a big difference between seiko and Citizen
I have that exact Samurai. Ended up switching to a Strapcode bracelet which is a step up. Adds another $100 to the watch so there is that. I just couldn’t get the thing to fit right and found the diver extension to be uncomfortable.
Just got a Monster from the bay today. I first thought it was too big for my small wrist. but got to tried one in a store and it’s good also for smaller wrists. It’s and beautiful watch and before i picked this model I was debating btwn. this model and the SRPE27 one with the PADI approval. I think the SRPE25 is better looking.
Love your reviews in this price point, and your ongoing episodes with Marc. Always fun and informative! May I suggest the SRPF81/SBDY073? It has an awesome dial and Tuna shape with very wearable dimensions. There are three other colors, and I was able to find one from Japan for under $500.
Expecting the srpd27 Monday. I haven't been wearing my SKX as often since it was discontinued. Plus the monster is a bit different than other Seiko divers. Keep up the good work
You are in for some serious fun, not many divers out there as fun. I totally agree what you say about the Monster being very unique. Thank you Nick, enjoy!!! Best regards, TGV
Love the low end comparison videos, I think the Arny is my next Seiko piece, though the an Orange dial Monster would be awesome too! Thanks TGV, keep up the good work, appreciate you!
⛔⚠️☢Warning: 3 layer rocket time blasting off @ 8:58! Great comparison TGV! Although I'm firmly in the Samurai camp, can certainly appreciate the Monster. Unlike the turtle, the Samurai looks chiseled, tough & angular... while the monster reminds me of a bottle cap & the turtle looks like it was designed after a potbelly beer-gut . Samurai 4 the win over BOTH the monster & turtle. Cheers mate! 🍻🍺🍺
I bought the Samurai as my first automatic watch as a high school graduation gift to myself. Ive had it for over a year and it is still by far my favorite watch. I love its angular case shape.
Was just having that little moment of realisation that you get sometimes as a watch enthusiast, about how happy inexpensive watches can make one. Just thinking about all the pleasure my Seiko SARB035, SARB017 and SNA411 have given me and then you post this! So looking forward to watching it, keep up the excellent work TGV, love this channel!
Well said Nick! Very true. One my favourites in my collection is even cheaper than these. It's my G-Shock GA-700-4ADR, $90 and fantastic!
@@brianmsahin Lovely watch! I'll definitely be getting a G-Shock myself eventually, probably a DW5600E-1V. Can go even cheaper than your G-Shock, love my Casio F91-W, hehe! ;o)
@@---Nicolas--- 👍👍😁
i had that same experience with the sarb033, only the seiko was on the other end of it. bought a vostok for 70 dollars and have enjoyed that far more even though it is objectively worse.
@@---Nicolas--- My Casio F91-W remains the only watch which garners positive comments and attention for me :) Iconic and a fave for less than a tenner - can't go wrong there!
I still love my original orange monster purchased in 2011. Still going strong on NATO at the moment. A summer watch that makes it into the rotation every now and again. Thanks TGV!
So you should, such a cool watch!!! I bet it will increase in value so much now, it will be a pleasure to see the annoyance of the watch snobs and Seiko haters 🤣🤣🤣
Thank you Mike, wear it with pride.
Best regards,
TGV
Has it ever been serviced?
I would really like to know if it’s ever been serviced?? Or is it a secret 🤫?
I bought the Samurai when travelling in Japan 3 years ago. It stills my everyday watch since! I love it and I feel something is missing when I am not wearing it…As a big fan of this watch and based on my everyday experience, I absolutely agree with your analysis! 😉 Thank you very much for this video of my loved watch!! 🤩
That monster with black bezel looks stunning, compared to the original stainless steel bezel. I liked the samurai better with its more modern and a more sleeker design, but that monster does look awesome!
Samurai, not Monster.
Comparisons at the price point are a difficult field that being said they are fascinating with how TGV “dives” in. I would love to see a Japan vs Swiss vs German divers under $1500. Or perhaps maybe we could just discuss your book collection. Love the content as always!
Almost 2 years since I got my first watch: the Samurai great white (SRPD23). Absolutely love the angles, which if the sun hits them (top part of the lugs and the pyramids on the bezels edge) just right, will turn on a built in disco-ball-mode. Not to forget the shades of blue, which are dependent on the light - from navy blue to a light vibrant blue. And something that Ive not seen on a watch - if the watch is pointed towards a light source, the bezel insert will look like its glowing.
This watch with Zuludiver jaywick jaquard weave NATO is just a great summer combo. Otherwise I wear it with other Zuludiver NATO straps or the leather zulus Ive made.
One of the contributors to the purchase was the Samurai review video on this channel.
Thanks TGV!
Rare to get someone talking about the Monster rather than just banging on about how perfect the Turtle is the whole time. I'm a Seiko fan because of your endorsements, and I picked the Monster as my first Seiko so this is right in my wheelhouse!
Haha, I love the turtle too, but I have to say, the Monster is way more fun.
Thank you, I really appreciate the support.
Best regards,
TGV
Still a turtle is a grail for me
The monster is my first seiko watch too!
@@oscarosullivan4513 I have a Europe only Seiko Turtle with the anthracite gray dial (same color dial as the original 62MAS) that has a partiularly "scrunchy" crown that I don't entirely trust (I actually take my watches into the water). My watchmaker doesn't think there's anything wrong with it, but, he says I can just replace the crown and that will probably take care of my concerns. I have too many watches as it is and just don't want to bother. If you want, I'll send it to you just to give it a good home. I think the bracelet is long gone, but I can throw in a nice NATO strap or 2.
@@varanid9 When will seiko get their QC right
Love both of these watches! Love your reviews! I’ve just received a King Turtle Save The Ocean on a silicone strap and I absolutely love it! I’m becoming a Seikopath with my eyes on a Samurai! Also looking for a gold dial Pogue! What a great chronograph that is!
I hadn't seen the term "Seikopath" before. I'm going to steal it. 🤫😁
I'd love a gold dial Pogue to go with my Samurai and Monster.
The SRPF77?!
If so I just got one last weekend and I’m amazed by how gorgeous and well built this watch is
Picked up a monster for half price last January sales I love it
It would be cool if Seiko came out with a new official successor to the SKX007 - though I agree with TGV it’s hard to replicate that nostalgia.
Give it 10-20 years they will re release it as a vintage model
I'm definitely leaning towards the Monster, though I really like the design of both. I wish the Samurai were just a smidge smaller, but as a Seiko diver, the size is pretty much par for the course. Of course, I just ordered one of the new Seiko 5s--I never had an SKX, but I love all the new Seiko 5 variants and the homage they pay to the SKX. Unlike some, I couldn't care less that they aren't "true" divers--I use my diver's 100% as elapsed time devices for tracking everyday tasks.
I do the same…timing everything from grilling hamburgers to steeping a tea bag. They’re really handy!
Samurai fits fine on my 6.5 inch wrist if size is the only issue just buy one.
As many of us are cost conscious with our watch purchases, I really appreciate the review on great quality pieces that won’t get me in trouble at the house!!
I'm excited watching this because my wife's just ordered me the white Islander Monster ISL-56 for Christmas. I've always wanted a Monster. I'd obviously like to see the comparison to the Islander 😉
First time for me watching your content with headphones on. The sound is sooo good. Back ground music and your soothing voice really helped me chill after a stressful day. Thank you.
The best voice on RUclips! You make me want to buy a watch every time I watch/listen to your videos.....not that I don't already want to lol
Why no love for the Turtle, TGV? I have had my SRPA21J1 for years now and it remains one of my all time favorites, I can't be alone...
At 3:20 he literally says the turtle is his favourite and he's already reviewed it
@@sl8ight_yt what about the mini turtle? I think it's really underrated
nevermind, he mentioned it in 19:02
@@sl8ight_yt where has he reviewed it? I tried to find it but I only found Mini Turtle reviews not the normal Turtle.
Got the SRP775 about 6 years ago. It has been my only watch and I love it more every day. The bracelet broke, got a rubber strap, broke to, finally on a NATO strap. Glass and case are scratched, bezel changed color, it has been consistently gaining 45s a day on any position, never regulated or serviced. Awesome watch.
The fact that the King Samurai comes with Sapphire crystal and a ceramic bezel is what sold it for me :)
Yes that takes this model to a next level
Out of all of the Seiko re-issues I would say the Samurai is the one they get right most of all maybe even an improvement on the original version. Save the Ocean and orange dialled models particularly impressive looking. Love the older monsters more than the recent releases which are a bit conservative.
I have both and my favourite is......depends on the mood of the day. Excellent review as usual.
Excellent video as always! I got my 4th Gen black dialed monster like three weeks ago and couldn't be happier.
Love that your channel really does cover the spectrum of watches for the average enthusiasts. From seiko, to fortis, to rolex, everything is covered. Keep it up bud!
Also, waiting for that tgv x longisland collab watch ;)
Thank you so much Ahmed, OMG, genius idea, I can't think why I have not thought about it!!!
I might just have to ask Marc,
Best regards,
TGV
Long Island x Hugo
Agreed! Love your videos. They have a laid back lounge feel about them. Very calming and giving to watch 🙂
Cant wait for the Dino diver, Model: H (for "Hugo" of course) 😁👍
Concerning mechanisms involving metal pieces I once read the description "oily precision", then referring to the gear lever in a car. Getting that kind of well-crafted feedback can indeed be very satisfying.
I have had cheap screw links strip, back out and just outright refuses to go in. These Seiko bracelets are horrid for many other reasons, but the pin and collars are perfectly fine.
I have a 007 and I bought the 2019 PADI Samurai and I then I bought the monster orange dial. The Samurai is just so perfect short lug to lug, hacking and hand winding, solid end links and it looks killer on a nato. I wore it everyday until I got my Citizen ny0040-17le. That dual color lume on the Samurai the blue and green is just too awesome.
Here in Estonia usually new videos appear at 1am 😂 I'm already sleepy, but can't resist the pleasure.
I lean towards the monster. I have a monster black series, it wears smaller especially in the Pvd black. That bezel is nice on it & wears beautifully on my 7.25” wrist.
The white dial king Samurai was my first automatic watch purchase. It’s finished beautifully with a quality rubber dive strap. I’ve since moved on to smaller watches but it still gets some wrist time. Since you mentioned the 6R movement, I took the plunge on the spb147 (62 mas reissue). This is another level. The size & design is spot on and has the 70hr power reserve. I’d love to see you review the spb147 maybe compared to a Tudor Black Bay? I was obsessing over a black Bay for ages, but the seiko has killed that urge! Keep up the great work!
From the two I prefer design of Samurai because it feels a bit more grown-up/serious and also I have 7.2" wrist. But today grasps the diver's throne under 500 USD SEIKO's King Turtle all the way. Its "Save the ocean" versions look phenomenal and call for getting into water.
Thanks for the comparison Tristano. 👍
When trying to choose between the Samurai or Monster a few months back, I ended up with the Monster (SRPE09K). As you observed with the bracelet, if you don't have strong fingers nails, you can forget trying to open that divers extension. I think too much sake was consumed during that design work! Out of the box, it was averaging a consistent -14 secs/day over a 2 week period, but once regulated I got it down to just over -1 sec/day average. I will likely revisit the regulation to get it into a positive number, as it is much easier to reset the time when running fast. All-in-all I'm pleased with yet another addition to my ever-growing Seiko collection.
I got my Titanium Samurai SBDA 001, right after getting the 40th Anniversary SKZ205, also in Titanium. Both have never been opened and are going just fine. Thought quite a lot about getting a Monster but never pulled the trigger. Saw one for around $400 AU...still thinking. Always a great history and review.
The first seiko I ever bought was the same 1 you reviewed in this video, saw it in a seiko retailer while on Japan and had no knowledge on this model or any other watches to be honest, this watch is what started my collection and the moment I saw it I had to have it. this domestic jdm version I got will stick with me forever, thanks for the amazing reivew tgv you're the best !
I have the exact Samurai. I bought it from Long Island watch for $394 and bonus, it says 'made in Japan '. It is a fantastic watch the bracelet notwithstanding. The aesthetics are perfect and watch runs an avg +4.6sec/day. I think it would be very cool to do a history video and explain the watches that various famous personages ( US Grant; Horatio Nelson; Napoleon; Rob Roy etc would wear if today's watches were available to them.Your channel is the best, TGV and i know you are so very busy so I really want to say thanks for making them.The historical context which you provide for the watches you review is so interesting. Huzzah!
I have the King Samurai with the black waffle dial. I love that the case design is so different to most and as a huge fan of industrial design the sharp, brushed edges just look so good.
You classy jammy devil!!! No wonder you love it.
Thank you my friend, enjoy.
Best regards,
TGV
This man give's a vibe that no other watch channel is giving us
I received a Samurai as a uni graduation gift a few months ago and absolutely love it!
One thing I would recommend watching for; there are Samurais with non-Japanese movements for a slightly lower price. Personally, I don’t think it’s worth it, especially for a Seiko at this price point. Get one with a Japanese movement.
Bought the srph75, what a beautiful piece! Put it on a black waffle strap, and it is the perfect match for any sport or casual look.
Great video as always. I have owned a Samurai for a couple of years now and I still enjoy wearing it. I swapped out the strap and went for a navy colour rubber and I feel it is so much better. I would however I'm sure find a space in my box to own a Monster.
Jim Little is perfectly rigth. I very much enjoyed the intro, the review and Tristano doing another marvellous job although the two tickers left me cold! Thanks sir !
If the Samurai was 40mm in diameter, it would be a one watch collection for me.
🙏🙏🙏 Totally agree!!!
Thank you,
Best regards,
TGV
But for me more watches get smaller I can't simply fit them anymore because I feel like watches below 40mm just way too small for me just looks weird
I’ve been going back and watching/rewatching your watches in movies series, some of my favourite videos of yours for sure. It got me thinking, it would be interesting to do a series on movies/movie characters who don’t wear iconic watches and speculate on what they would wear. Like for example, what would Indiana Jones wear in the original films set just before the outbreak of WW2? Would it be a dress watch for his professor role or would it be something slightly more durable like a pilots watch of the era? Or what watch would Kurt Russel wear in The Thing? Just some thoughts! Keep it up.
Are you single
Every time I watch UG's videos, I want to order a Manhattan while waiting for the waiter to deliver my filet mignon.
I bought both. Couldn't make up my mind. Wife raised an eyebrow when I did. I looked her square in the eyes and said two simple words. " Shoe Sale."
🤣🤣🤣 Well played sir well played.
Thank you my friend,
Best regards,
TGV
🤣🤣🤣
Best seiko diver ive owned the samurai and the 4th gen monster. I have the bezel scratched up on my monster and it looks just right. Looks great scratched up.
Got the King Samurai last year and I really like it. actually, when you wear it on a leather strap (Gecko) it gets a more versatile look. I think it’s a bit more tasteful than the Monster. But hey, too each their own.
Marc at Island Watch has a really nice Strapcode bracelet for the Samurai called the “Boyer”, that has a “hexad” link shape that’s really fitting for the design of the watch. It’s about $115, but if you like the Samurai it’s worth it.
Excellent point! Not to mention that Marc also sells Monster and Samurai-esque watches of his own that address many if not most of the shortcomings of the Seiko models.
I bought the new Monster from Moyer when it was brand new, hot off the press, when i was in Noblesville IN for a concert in June 2019. I hadn't even seen press photos of it yet but i instantly fell in love and bought it. Im on vacation right now, and wearing that very watch by chance. Great video!
I got the "dark manta" King Samurai a couple weeks ago, and I couldn't be happier with it! It's a beautiful watch and it wears very comfortable on the wrist.
I bought a Seiko Samurai a few months ago the Manta Ray version , great watch and the best dial in my collection !
Good evening TGV! Great to have this in depth review of the Samurai and the Monster. From pictures, always imagined the Monster to be a very hefty wristwatch, but seeing both watches side by side, the Monster looks quite wearable with lots of wrsitpresence. Have a great evening!
Thank you Heiko, truth be told, these are my favorite videos to make, I just love talking and learning about Seiko. Regarding your concerns about the Monster, it wear so much smaller, if a little chubby, I am sure you would enjoy it.
Have a great rest of the weekend my friend.
Best regards,
TGV
I have two monsters and they are very wearable. They are two of my favorite watches.
The new gen Monster is every bit as wearable as the SKX. It is an absolute delight on the wrist.
Love Seiko and love all your videos! You are by far my favorite channel and love how in-depth you go across the range of brands regardless of 'status'. Many kudos!
I’m a gen 1-3 monster collector. Love the design….perfect for me. They have better bracelets too. The gen 4 monsters miss the mark on so many levels. It seems like they tried to “upscale” the design. Anyhoo…great video, as usual!
It sort of looks like a “Transocean” Monster🤷♂️
Excellent video, TGV! Thanks so much for putting it all out there for us. I personally have never been drawn much to either the Samurai or Monster, but it was wonderful learning so much about both. I honestly think that these are quite capable & special pieces, but I don’t find either compelling enough to buy. If I wants Seiko history, I would probably get a Turtle, as you mentioned….but if I want a newer diver…I would spend the money elsewhere. I think I probably is just simply the looks are so polarizing and for the money now you can get sooooo much more. Regardless, if you love the look….I don’t think you’ll find much like it, so they are both unique.
I can’t wait to see the new Speedtimers to be honest! That is going to be special! You should compare the Speedtimer to the Intramatic or the Lorier and Speedgraf.
Thank you, as always, my friend. Hope you are well. Onwards and upwards!
Thank you TGV for another wonderful review! I personally really love Seiko, it is one of my most favorite brands! Stay Healthy and Well! Have a Great Day! Nicholas
That is pretty cool my great grandpa used to have a velvet cupcake tuxedo jacket just like that
The blue dial looks amazing on the Monster
I have a black dial and love it 🥰 . Was planning on the blue with the bracelet but couldn't resist the black with resin strap for the money . I found it for WAY less money
This particular Sam is the one for me and incredible value on the used market. Great video.
My favorite of all time is always been the Orange 🍊Monster first generation, I paid $ 59,00 dollars, 17 years ago and I loved it ,I still enjoy it till this day.....yeah you right we need better movement's...great review on this two iconic pieces..👍👍👊..
I Love wearing my Samurai.
I can't see the appeal of the Monster and would get a Turtle before as I'm sure it's more Comfortable on easier on the Eyes.
I have been wearing a Captain Willard homage a lot though and the Case Shape makes it easy to wear.
I’ve been wearing the “Sea” Monster for almost 5 years now and I hope to wear it for the rest of my life. I used to always fantasize about having a larger collection but now I only want this
I got that same Samurai as an impulse buy not long ago. You are right about the bracelet. I like how it looks on the watch but sizing it was such a PAIN! Its not like regular pinned bracelets, this one had some kind of special little sleeve that was extremely easy to lose. And yes, it adds so much weight! I ended up putting it on an Uncle Seiko tropic strap and… wow, it just made a world of difference. It suits it perfectly, and I think it dresses it up a bit as well while actually making it more sporty at the same time.
A man of culture, init. Btw, I picked up the Seiko Manta II turtle, what a bloody great watch.
Interesting review. Enjoyed it. Keep up the good work on your channel. Regards, #WR4K
I just love your reviews , could listen to them all day, good work my friend!
I like the old monsters personally I’m just not a cyclops fan unless it’s on a date just. The samurai dial really does it for me both are great watches and I’d be happy to have both
I cannot choose, so I have both! Black coated Samurai Save the Ocean and Monster Pinguin. Samurai has a more industrial look and feel, while the dial of the monster is so cool. Love both watches and put them both on a NATO strap. Thanks for the video.
As always I love Seiko. I took a Seiko 5 SNXS75 with a handmade suede strap to Paris the other week. Not a dive watch but the Grey dial and brown strap went so well with the autumn colours of the city.🍂🍁. Great video as always sir 👍
I’ve just got myself a King Samurai with the sapphire crystal, cyclops and ceramic bezel insert. In a few days time I’ll also have a King Monster in my collection. I’ll report back on the FB group with my opinions on the two side by side!
Still wearing and enjoying my SKX after many years all because of your channel.
Good work fella.
YESSSSSS!!! Thank you Rick, happy #seikosaturday
Best regards,
TGV
The king samurai has my vote. The SRPG21 to be exact... Love the blue on it. A subtle pop of color perfect for summer on the right strap of course.
“…making it seem somewhere between a creation of H.R. Giger mixed with late 1970s brutalist Soviet architecture” - a perfect description of the Monster… and yet, I do love it. God help me, I do love it so.
Love my old Seiko’s SKX’s and just picked up a King Turtle and can’t wait to wear it. Looking for some nice NATO straps to compliment it…. Great video as well!
I recently got the black dial version of the monster with the rubber strap for my 40th birthday. I really love and am happy with this watch (yes that includes the cyclops), although I have felt like a bit of a contrarian with how little it is covered and talked about in comparison to other options. So to see this talked about in depth by not only my favourite watch channel but the one that got me first interested in watches literally made my day.
Also the rubber strap option is very comfortable and looks great on this watch but I have heard on smaller wrists it is a bit long leaving a lot of tail on the end. So worth keeping that in mind if someone goes for that option and has smaller wrists.
I absolutely love my PADI Monster 4th Gen. I upgraded to a double domed sapphire crystal and had it regulated. It’s easily my favourite watch at the moment. It sits so well on the wrist.
No ...no ..no.... this unbelievable EPIC INTRO .... what can i say !!! I'm lovin' it ...... just lovin'it.
Now the question is , how and why u never reviewed the latest Seiko samurai SRPR33... IT'S THE BEST EVER !!
Hands down my favorite watch channel, excellent reviews and comparisons. And I like how you stay away from watch world drama. Seiko what a great bang for the buck 👍
Sir, may I say that you look fantastic :) beside doing an awesome job teaching us about the history of these beautful watches. Sending you much love, health, respect and appreciation from Austria.
Thank you so much Simon, sending my love and respect right back at you!
Onwards and upwards my friend!
Best regards,
TGV
Finally I got the video that I was looking for. Thanks TGV.
🙌🙌🙌 That makes me happy to hear, enjoy!
Thank you,
Best regards,
TGV
One thing seiko drivers have is personality plus! Not only do they have a variety of designs but they each stand out, and are easily recognizable. this is a big difference between seiko and Citizen
It's hard to beat a Monster for durability and ergonomics in a diver.
Are you single
@@SandraWilliams-wm9el Happily married.😀
My Seiko Samurai was my first automatic watch! Great to see it featured here!
Light blue manta samurai dial is just out of this world for this price point…. On sunshine is a living - breathing ocean on a wrist… wow
Love this channel!! Out of all my watches I have my two seiko are my favourite and brings me the most joy by far
Monster definitely...gorgeous and unique design ...love that concave bezel ....
The samurai is more versatile.
Not sure if you've ever done similar but a comparison of the Oris Aquis and it's competitors at around the $1500 - $2000 price range would be great.
Fantastic idea, thank you Gareth, I will certainly look into it.
Best regards,
TGV
@@theurbangentry Nice one TGV. My profile pic will tell you where my heart is; own a Carysfort and love it.
I have that exact Samurai. Ended up switching to a Strapcode bracelet which is a step up. Adds another $100 to the watch so there is that. I just couldn’t get the thing to fit right and found the diver extension to be uncomfortable.
Just got a Monster from the bay today. I first thought it was too big for my small wrist. but got to tried one in a store and it’s good also for smaller wrists. It’s and beautiful watch and before i picked this model I was debating btwn. this model and the SRPE27 one with the PADI approval. I think the SRPE25 is better looking.
I like watch comparisons so yes please continue. It seems my need for watch knowledge is an unscratchable itch
Always enjoy seeing new content pop up from your channel😀👍 always enjoyable to sit down n relax with a coffee ,an have good watch content to watch.
Love your reviews in this price point, and your ongoing episodes with Marc. Always fun and informative! May I suggest the SRPF81/SBDY073? It has an awesome dial and Tuna shape with very wearable dimensions. There are three other colors, and I was able to find one from Japan for under $500.
Great picture of the SKX at the start, the dial, chapter ring and bezel are all aligned !
An unexpected treat for the evening :) Love Seiko
Expecting the srpd27 Monday. I haven't been wearing my SKX as often since it was discontinued. Plus the monster is a bit different than other Seiko divers. Keep up the good work
You are in for some serious fun, not many divers out there as fun. I totally agree what you say about the Monster being very unique.
Thank you Nick, enjoy!!!
Best regards,
TGV
Don’t you think this kind of looks like a “transocean” monster? I kind of dig the look
Love the low end comparison videos, I think the Arny is my next Seiko piece, though the an Orange dial Monster would be awesome too! Thanks TGV, keep up the good work, appreciate you!
Absolutely love the narration. Well done TGV!
The two watches I've been eyeballing. Thanks for this video!
The monster. That’s my next watch! What a beautiful piece.
⛔⚠️☢Warning: 3 layer rocket time blasting off @ 8:58!
Great comparison TGV! Although I'm firmly in the Samurai camp, can certainly appreciate the Monster. Unlike the turtle, the Samurai looks chiseled, tough & angular... while the monster reminds me of a bottle cap & the turtle looks like it was designed after a potbelly beer-gut . Samurai 4 the win over BOTH the monster & turtle. Cheers mate! 🍻🍺🍺
Great comparison, love these videos. I have the samurai in ocean blue and really pops when out in the sun and wearing blue 💙
Great video TGV! I have to say i just love the intro and outro! Pure class