I’m with you. $1000 for a misaligned bezel and -22 secs on the timegrapher ? For $1000 there are plenty of choices out there that provide way better value (C. Ward anyone?).
@@GS-vb3zn Seiko movements don't translate well on timegrapher but then check your daily rate as you wear them you will see they are quite consistent.
This is a beauty, but I could never justify $1000 for it. Think I'll stick to San Martin and Steeldive, especially since you can get fully-lumed ceramic inserts. Heimdallr even offers a high-beat 6105.
You will be much more satisfied with San Martin and Steeldive than with SPB153. SPB153 is not worth $ 1000, just look at the average movement, SPB153 is not worth more than $ 250
@@Televisiontechnology I have Steeldive pilot(around $100) watch with NH35, so far I am satisfied. The quality is as good as most micro brands selling their $ 500- $700 models with the NH35. When you get it I'm waiting for you to tell me your impressions.
@@Penny2105 Ok will do - I am a watch collector and have some nice pieces as well as the lower-priced stuff - dead keen to see something that is a nice solid watch for a decent price. Which would be a nice change! I've looked at the €1300 Willard, but lots of online reviews quite mixed in terms of quality for the money - it's a lot for a Seiko with a pretty average movement - so will be very happy if the Steeldive is as good as they say. Lots of people have positive things to say about it.
I recall the Seiko announcing their aim to improve their reputation outside of Japan . Aiming more toward luxury than affordability. Seems it was just corporate speak for "we will be jacking up our prices". Their cost cutting habits and QC issues have remained. I just don't see any excuse for it when so many other companies are getting it right. It's a shame really. they have released some beautiful looking pieces. They are really just a shadow of a brand that I once knew. 😁
Agree. I feel they are stuck with a vast manufacturing infrastructure around Asia geared towards cheap watches that they can't easily turn around. Their ambitions are writing cheques their assembly lines can't cash.
In this hobby there are literally people who think higher prices are a good thing. Like the only thing that separates Seiko and swiss manufactures is the price so you solve that by charging more. It's dumb as hell but it could work.
I have owned an Orange Monster II generation, a Turtle and a aviator. Monster had specs of paint on the dial. The Turtle had misaligned chapter ring and a faulty movement which was done on warranty. The aviator one was good though. But for me Seiko brand is not worth any money. It is hard to think past that and get another one. I much prefer Swiss made watches and even Casio watches. Seiko is charging more and more and the quality is the same or worse.
@@KurzawaJakub Absolutely. Even many of the microbrands I own outdo Seiko and are half the price. Sadly there are so many people who will throw money at them while defending their many shortcomings so there's no incentive for improvement.
Funny you say this. I bought an SPB149 but realised it wasn't worth the price. I'm going to sell it for one of those new Turtles with a sapphire crystal and pocket the change.
E VH I am in general distrustful of brands in regards to the overall product they provide model imorovementwise vs cost increases per year. I am aware that quality costs money but the larger companies get (and the more clout their name carries) in general the more they are willing to nickel and dime you. As Seiko is shifting to more and more of a premium brand watch company the overall cost will increase quickly without offering improved material specifications (and a legion of rabid Seiko fanboys disincentivizes this even further).
Love the army green dial and the slightly smaller case. The intro was hilarious, I imagine you asking your wife to film you playing around in the garden looking tough 😂
"Never get out of the boat. Absolutely goddamn right. Unless you're gonna go all the way. Seiko had got off the boat. They'd split from the whole ****ing program!" $1,000 for a misaligned bezel and a watch losing nearly 30s per day? 😱😱😱😱
It wasn’t always like that though. I’d say only the last few years - maybe 10 cos time flies haha their older stuff is very well made and runs and runs. You can find so many examples of 50 year old Seikos never serviced that still run spot on. You’re right - it’s a shame.
zack oblong I actually like this piece, love the colour but yep think I agree it’s even past my bezel tolerance. The movement I think would actually likely wear in and when on wrist give a pretty decent accuracy but there’s no need for the bezel to be out almost a full click on a $1500 watch. Feel a bit sorry for the bloke who’s purchased it as he’ll read all this and think we’re a bunch of you know what’s! 🤪
I’ve got the black one. Bezel is excellent and line up well. Runs at approx -2 spd on the wrist and +2 spd overnight off the wrist. Can’t complain about that.
Same here. I got the Seiko Willard black edition and it lines up fine and the movement keeps perfect time. I also got it new on a black Friday sale for £600.
I remember growing up my dad will play Apocalypse now, he would put it through the stereo so it's loud. He would turn up the volume so loud you can feel it. The scene where the helicopters fly into the village, guns blazing and music blaring. He said the movie was pretty accurate. He was over there 68 to 69 with 101st airborne. It was never a good night when that movie was on. It wasn't a good time for him or a lot of people.
To be fair Rolex sell $20,000 GMT masters that also have misaligned bezels. If any other brands tried to sell something for that much with a misaligned bezel, they would be crucified.
@@howardjackson8095 however, you do realize that the number of misaligned bezels on a Rolex are far fewer than those on a Seiko? I don't even think you can compare the two.
I really like the fact that Seiko doesn’t put the cheesy „S“ on the crown of their Prospex watches; although it would be cool to have the „LOCK↪️“ engraving that some of the vintage Seiko divers have on the crown.
When I see these fat cushion cased Turtle-like watches I feel like Seiko's engineers and designers had Xzybit in the room: "Yo dawg, we heard you like cases, so we put a case around your watch case."
That seiko is a stunner, I paid £1200 GBP for one and regretted it immediately because of the misalignment and a couple of other issues I didn’t want to wear it daily in case it got damaged before I sold it on I sold it at a slight loss and bought a steel dive homage to wear daily for £100 GBP I have a number of seiko‘ s and at the risk of some criticism, the steel dive is a better watch than the one I sold The steel band it came with was not good but the free waffle strap it came with was excellent Seiko movement, hacking and hand winding, lumed ceramic insert, saphire crystal, and they can be modded with seiko oem parts Would love to see the two reviewed side by side All the best Jody, great video, and loved the podcast
Carlos Manjarrez you will not regret it, I wore mine out in public for the first time a few days ago and got 2 comments 1st wow is that a Willard 2 nd beautiful watch mate
Ditto. Bought a Steel dive for £105 at same time as Padi Turtle £340. Crown detached from turtle on day one. Steeldive overall better quality. Gained 1 sec in a week when constantly wearing.
This Seiko release makes the micro brands offerings at about 1/10 of the price redundant - Oops, there's two men in white coats at the door, excuse me!!! atb snack.
Seikos new pricing is a huge turn off to the brand. Even the mid tear comes with a crappy bracelet. There are microbrands offering the same movement for a lot less money and a much better watch. 1000.00 Insane. It does have a 70s vibe though. I have had it with their rip off prices. 1000 to 1500 dollars for a frikin Seiko is just nuts. Grand Seiko is another watch entirely, better movements and polishing and accuracy. I love the spring drive. There are chines specials with Seiko movements for 100 dollars or less. Seiko line up with the marks, good luck with that. QC has been a problem as far back as I can remember. You can still find padi watches from Seiko under 300, well last time I looked.
Totally agree. Grand Seiko, as expensive as all their models are, seems kinda like a valuable watch compared to many lower level models (whom many I still find too expensive for me). At least the GS's seems to be giving many even more expensive Swiss luxury watches a hard time. Seiko is unfortunately starting to lose their since long good reputation of being affordable watches with great quality with this policy. I guess I'll just have to get my hands on one or two good old 7s26 Seiko Fives that still are available at maximum $100 before their gone, and remember the old days.
Since your review Jody, they came out with a third variant and that is the Blue Special Edition Willard. It is a stunning looking watch. The blue is mesmerizing and I was fortunate to get an aligned bezel and my accuracy is spot on after a few days. I purchased mine from an AD in the US and told him to check the bezel to see if it was aligned perfectly otherwise I didn't want it. He sent me a beauty. I was going to go for the black until I saw the blue and no regrets. I will say it is definitely overpriced.
A watch connoisseur like you should know that there’s no such thing as “Swiss made” in the $999 price range.. “Swiss made” written on the dial doesn’t necessarily mean that the watch has been entirely made in Switzerland.
Just One More Watch Well, they have to go upmarket. 10 to 15 years ago, Quartz watches were still selling like hot cake but now this market is going to the Smartwatches. And who buys mechanical watches? The enthusiasts. And they will much rather buy higher end pieces than lower end.
@@thomasa.243 I think the Chinese market is getting bigger and bigger everyday in the lower end category of watches. Orient is now the "new Seiko" considering they offer nice watches at a much more affordable and reasonable price. Let's see how this new direction affects Seiko in the following years... My guess is that they would do great but they are not going to be a brand that offers an awesome value for money like 2 or 3 years ago.
TheRodentryResistance 95 Hmm, I know quite a few people living in China and most of them either use Smartwatches, Casio G-Shock or Middle to High End Swiss Watches like Tissot or Longines but Seiko or Orient, less. The problem I see with Seiko is that they do not really have a defined market. A lot of Swiss brands are clearly positioned, especially the one from Swatch Group, but Seiko bundles everything under one name basically...
Hi Jody! Great channel.. informative and fun to watch! The black dial version runs about $1300 USD, which makes these QC issues seem far worse. Think I’ll buy the Yema Flygraf Pilot M1 for half the price.
Thanks for the tribute to one of my favorite movies of all time. Great movie, mediocre watch reissue. If San Martin can make such an amazing homage at $22O USD, Seiko can make one as well.Put a 4R35 in it and every watch nerd everywhere will buy one. Seiko don't surf!
That is some very disappointing specs for a watch of that price point! I am losing faith in Seiko watches the more I hear about them. I hate to see this happening. I acquired a newer Seiko recently, and the band was nowhere near the quality of my older ones either! Great review as always Jody!!!
I already loved my "steel dive" hommage, but after seeing your review I love it more! (quality/price is unbeatable)...You certainly have a future as an actor, by the way ;o)
How they react to bringing this back is the make-or-break for me. Sometimes stuff gets built wrong. On a bottom-price Seiko or Casio, where they make thousands upon thousands, it's more understandable. On a watch in this price range, well, nothing is perfect, but you would expect them (or maybe the place you bought it) to fix/replace for you. If they do, it's forgive and forget. If not, well, it's the opposite.
"If he wants to relive this moment, he always got this video to refer back to." LMAO! Loved the Apocalypse intro as well. Also, you need to do more impressions of various actors/characters with various English accents, you have an entertaining talent there for sure (without being over the top). Anyways, a smaller Turtle/retro 6105 model would be welcomed by me with quite small wrists. I'm awaiting a Steeldive "Willard" hopingly soon arriving, and I'm curious to see how that one will fit me. I agree about the critique (not called "moans and niggles" here, huh?!), Seiko has to deliver again like they used to, and not just put out more and more pricier watches without the old school quality value they got known for. Well, I guess it's time to check out Orient models a little more in depth now.. As always, great video and keep up the good work.
OMG Seiko! 🤦♂️ On one hand a watch for a grand, misaligned bezel, unsigned crown and an upgraded yet so badly regulated movement, on the other hand my budget Steeldive 6105 hommage, signed crown, fully lumed and perfectly aligned ceramic bezel, NH35 movement that I regulated myself to 0 ms beat error and +3 secs/day....Do you think I am going to queue up to buy one of these? Would you???
For the Seiko 6R35 movement the life angle is 53 and you have to wind it before testing it on the time grapher as it is a 3 day movement. Made the same mistakes when testing mine and was surprised to find it operating well within COSC on the wrist. If the beat error and amplitude on your time grapher were accurate the movement could be considered broken or in dire need of service.
I absolutely love this watch. I was so close to pulling the trigger on one ($1495 Cdn), until I watched three reviews where every piece had misaligned bezels. For that price, that kind of poor quality control is inexcusable and undeserving of my hard earned dollars. I will not buy another Seiko until I can physically inspect it first. I currenty own a Turtle, PADI Samurai, and a Sumo. The Samurai and Sumo both had misaligned bezel inserts. Once you see that, you can't unsee it. Finally I sent them to a Seiko modder and had the bezel inserts swapped out with ceramic ones and I also had the Hardlex replaced with sapphire crystals. Now I am wearing those watches more often. I guess Seiko does not care about quality control as long as we keep giving them our money and just tsk tsk about it like its just something to expect as if it is a charming quirk of the brand.
A little disappointing. It seems like seiko thinks they're doing everyone a big favour when they add sapphire. And is the 6r really that much better than the 4r, power reserve aside? I have a 4r35 samurai and I'm quite pleased with its consistency - plus 6 to 8 every day of the week. Still, this version of the Willard is worth it if you get a good one.
The 6R35 is actually a fantastic movement, but I still agree about the price. My feeling is that because Seiko doesn't really have a movement between the 6R and 8L series they can't really move beyond the 6R without approaching ¬2000USD. They could at least make up for the price with some finer materials (more titanium divers etc), refinement and QC. Until then I'd say the last generation of divers was the peak value for money era for seiko divers.
@@phillippugh2161 At least a 50 dollar seiko is value for money . But if you want to buy a 1000 dollar watch , that is far from accurate and has a misaligned bezel , well good for you .You get what you pay for , but not in this case .
Random Rob from Random Rob channel mentioned that timegrapher readings don't really reflect the watch actual timing accuracy. You gonna wear it to find out.
Nice intro, Jody, and I gotta agree with you about Seiko disappointing their fans as well as new hobbyists with QC issues. Whatever happened to striving for perfection even on more basic consumer models? Dare I say it, Seiko is starting to remind me of American automobile marketing strategies in the 80's where they made crappy cars that were practically falling apart on the lot just to upsell you - and for a lot more money you still only got something that was just decent which came along with some cheesy prestige model name. I'm American so I hope I can say that without sounding too brash.
I think it's actually good value for the quality of the case finishing and the amazing bracelet. I have two willards and they are perfectly aligned and within 5s. But I only but from Jewellers to see what I am getting, and not mail order ..
If you can stand not having that brand name on the dial,check out the Steeldive 6105 homage which comes in several colours and is a truly accurate homage with all the specs including the good old NH35 movement and sapphire crystal for less than $200.They're great,I should know because I have one and I love it.....................................
AND THE OSCAR FOR MOST PROMISING NEWCOMER GOES TO..... LOL ..... 😂😂 QC is terrible at that price.... you are basically paying $1000 for the brand name only ....Heimdallr or Steeldive have better Value and specs at a far lower price.
I recently got myself a new Seiko, an SBEJ003 Landmaster, and I'll be the first to admit it's no catwalk-model Marinemaster 300 when it comes to classic looks...but, it's their willingness to try new things that has sold the brand on me. Heck, their history is practically built on trying new things. Maybe surprisingly, I don't know, but none of my 5 Seiko's from Sea Urchin to Landmaster has QC issues. I'm still a little appalled that the Rolex root beer...an unattainable watch I once lusted after...that you reviewed, had the dodgy flaws it did. That was my "Never meet your heroes" moment.
Ahh.. new $1k+ Seikos and the new 6R35 .. I got a new SBDC105 (Brown dial gilt 62mas reissue) and it is running about -30 secs out of the box?! On full charge, too?! But, bezel is perfectly aligned though.. i guess about an extra -15 secs in exchange for the perfect bezel alignment. Overall, i still love the watch, it's a beauty, but the experience is bittersweet to say the least.. the bitter part being a bit more bitter than I'd like this time. Not impressed by the new 6r35. My tolerance is +/-6 per day, all of my mechanicals run at least that of not better. My overall tolerance for deviance is +/-30 secs. I'd set my watch + or - accordingly to max out my usage before needing to reset the watch again. So, essentially, I'd have to reset the SBDC105 every 2 days. Waiting for my local watchmaker to open up so he can help me open the caseback so I can adjust the regulation...the case back is really torqued on hard on this one and need help my cheap case opening tools cannot do. I do really like this green Willard x . Bit for about $1200 USD and high potential for qc issues and my recent experience with a new 62mas reissues .. I highly doubt I will ever get one in the foreseeable future.
If Seiko is serious about these price increases they must solve these QC issues. Misaligned bezels, beat error and edge of tolerance accuracy (not to mention watches slow down over time so running that slow out of the box is not good!) is tolerable at $300, but completely unacceptable at $1,000. I got a Rdunae 6105 turtle for $179 that scratches this itch and won't be looking back. Thanks for the review :)
Just ordered mine today. I got the steel bracelet version for £200 off from an official Seiko outlet. Should be with me Monday. This video was a factor in my decision. The first expensive watch I've bought since my Omega Speedmaster back on 2005. Despite the criticisms I'm certain that once you can't get these anymore folks will go mad for them.
There are a ton of excellent high end 3hz movements. But this particular one is performing like crap. I would be pissed to drop that much money for a new watch running like that.
Yep, my Heimdallr homage sure is a beauty - the lume pip fell off after wearing it 4 times. I'm certainly not hard on my watches either, and none of my Seiko's have ever done that. I have the SPB151 and it's miles better than the Heimdallr in fit and finish.
I've got a slightly off SKX bezel, which is fine because it is what it is and runs like a tank, but you're 100% right. If Seiko wants to claw upmarket, they need to start getting right stuff even the dodgiest microbrand can do.
Got my green Willard at the start of July. Took a punt unseen but with a decent discount from an AD in the UK and thankfully the one I got is perfect. Bezel perfectly aligned, fit and finish spot on and the crown is smooth to operate. Well happy with it, though I swap between a nato green tropic and an olive green Marine Nationale strap instead of the OG one it came with.
Is there some arbitrary reason to mispronounce the movie character's name as Captain 'will-ARD?' You don't say, "sei-KO." The character's name is pronounced "WILL-erd." They say it like that in the movie about a hundred times.
Absolutely awesome intro! 👍🏾🤣 But too much in the unboxing! Leave some details for the full review! Unless...you're actually going to the jungles of Vietnam for the full review?!?!? 😮
I've got 2 SKX007 and with the new pricing for Seikos and the offerings from Helm, San Martin, Zelos at fraction of the cost.... they might be my last Seikos... until GRAND SEIKO 10 years from now.
I dislike the huge turtle style case. I purchased a Seiko 6309-7049 in Toronto in 1983 to replace a Caravelle automatic 666 Diver Ref. 665 Cal 11OPACD (2472) and rarely wear it.
A Turtle (SPB777) in these colors, with the same 6R35 motor *_BUT_* the the round Turtle hour markers and these same hands would be *_F A N T A S T I C_***. Hello, mods!!! With a properly aligned chapter ring AND a bezel *WHICH ALSO LINES UP CORRECTLY* (cough, cough...) would be sweet icing on a tasty, delicious slice of cake.
You just put the nail in the coffin for me. I was going to buy an SPD265 which has (in the pictures a nice aqua face) but with those specs and the fact that I'm a radio operator and with $1000 USD on the line --NO WAY! Also, the actual SPD265 face in reality is very dark, nothing like the pictures depicts. This would have been my first 'automatic.' Your review brings up great points of realistic expectation for the price-class. I do have a question: If you have access to the Seiko Boutique and you constantly wore the watch for temperature reasons; what is the best seconds/month you could expect from this, or say a $500-$750 USD Seiko Turtle? Thanks for the Review from the Lower-48...
70 hours reserve! Well well well...about time. I swear when these watches were released they were quoted as have a 40 (50?) hour reserve. Well done Seiko. Edit....just got to the end.... -22s/day....hard pass. How about a quartz version? Gasp!!!!
Better off with a Steel Diver, “DeepOcean”, which looks pretty much identical, and in my opinion, a much better build quality for about &850.00 USD less.
Nice watch Iconic but $1000+ dollarinos is not my cup of Dilmah especially when you showed us the Steeldive Clomage 6105 for 130 Us On AliExpress,Thanks for that.
I would definitely take it back to the shop. QC just not good enough.
I’m with you. $1000 for a misaligned bezel and -22 secs on the timegrapher ? For $1000 there are plenty of choices out there that provide way better value (C. Ward anyone?).
Awful cost benefit at all!
Seiko is losing points with the watch enthusiast community faster than they imagine...
@@GS-vb3zn Seiko movements don't translate well on timegrapher but then check your daily rate as you wear them you will see they are quite consistent.
Acting skills 10/10
Humor 10/10
Jody kicks it 💪
If only this one had a day date!
Thanks mate! Yeah, day date wpudl have been interesting, but it needs to be better, or cheaper. Preferably both.
But then it'd have the candy bar cyclops 🤢
This is a beauty, but I could never justify $1000 for it. Think I'll stick to San Martin and Steeldive, especially since you can get fully-lumed ceramic inserts. Heimdallr even offers a high-beat 6105.
This is the real deal, those are copies made with cheap labors with low wage, dangerous working environment in China. Your money your choice
You will be much more satisfied with San Martin and Steeldive than with SPB153. SPB153 is not worth $ 1000, just look at the average movement, SPB153 is not worth more than $ 250
@@Penny2105 I've just ordered the steel dive 1970sd - so hope you are right, as I'd much rather spend €100 than €1000+
@@Televisiontechnology I have Steeldive pilot(around $100) watch with NH35, so far I am satisfied. The quality is as good as most micro brands selling their $ 500- $700 models with the NH35. When you get it I'm waiting for you to tell me your impressions.
@@Penny2105 Ok will do - I am a watch collector and have some nice pieces as well as the lower-priced stuff - dead keen to see something that is a nice solid watch for a decent price. Which would be a nice change! I've looked at the €1300 Willard, but lots of online reviews quite mixed in terms of quality for the money - it's a lot for a Seiko with a pretty average movement - so will be very happy if the Steeldive is as good as they say. Lots of people have positive things to say about it.
I recall the Seiko announcing their aim to improve their reputation outside of Japan . Aiming more toward luxury than affordability. Seems it was just corporate speak for "we will be jacking up our prices". Their cost cutting habits and QC issues have remained. I just don't see any excuse for it when so many other companies are getting it right. It's a shame really. they have released some beautiful looking pieces. They are really just a shadow of a brand that I once knew. 😁
Agree. I feel they are stuck with a vast manufacturing infrastructure around Asia geared towards cheap watches that they can't easily turn around. Their ambitions are writing cheques their assembly lines can't cash.
In this hobby there are literally people who think higher prices are a good thing. Like the only thing that separates Seiko and swiss manufactures is the price so you solve that by charging more. It's dumb as hell but it could work.
I have owned an Orange Monster II generation, a Turtle and a aviator. Monster had specs of paint on the dial. The Turtle had misaligned chapter ring and a faulty movement which was done on warranty. The aviator one was good though.
But for me Seiko brand is not worth any money. It is hard to think past that and get another one. I much prefer Swiss made watches and even Casio watches. Seiko is charging more and more and the quality is the same or worse.
@@KurzawaJakub Absolutely. Even many of the microbrands I own outdo Seiko and are half the price. Sadly there are so many people who will throw money at them while defending their many shortcomings so there's no incentive for improvement.
Can it be that there is so much praise in the reviews that they are realizing that people will pay more because of the hype
I really wanted one of these , but for the price Id rather a King turtle with the green dial.
Funny you say this. I bought an SPB149 but realised it wasn't worth the price. I'm going to sell it for one of those new Turtles with a sapphire crystal and pocket the change.
I've started to prefer the turtle to this and the cheaper king turtle has a ceramic bezel that this doesnt
Yeah, you could buy a King Turtle AND a King Samurai for the price of this shitter 👀
The doco on the making of Apocalypse Now "Heart of Darkness" was nearly as good as the movie.
@zack oblong like weeds in back yard after winter.
Love the silly intros. They always make me chuckle.
Thanks mate!
Im very happy with my Steeldive on a waffle strap for 78 euro
I ordered one for $95 US!
I am less and less impressed with seiko as a brand of late.
If your looking for something like this, loreo has a very similar design for like, 80 bucks lol.
Tyler Dobbs You are a scholar and a gentlemen!
Why
@@myhandlewastakenandIgaveup thanks lol I try, Judy gave the loreo diver a great review on here! I also love a good Vostok!
E VH I am in general distrustful of brands in regards to the overall product they provide model imorovementwise vs cost increases per year. I am aware that quality costs money but the larger companies get (and the more clout their name carries) in general the more they are willing to nickel and dime you. As Seiko is shifting to more and more of a premium brand watch company the overall cost will increase quickly without offering improved material specifications (and a legion of rabid Seiko fanboys disincentivizes this even further).
Love the army green dial and the slightly smaller case.
The intro was hilarious, I imagine you asking your wife to film you playing around in the garden looking tough 😂
She wasn't happy. I'm making the dinner tonight, and probably for a while to come 🤣
@@JustOneMoreWatch Make her a Vietnam war inspired spam dinner, I promise you'll be off the hook.
@@MyAffordableWatchCollection Yeah... My Dad ate C-Rations from the Korea War when he was in Vietnam. That oughta do it.
@@UGA.D I'm an army man myself, had my fair share of Spam 🤢
Just One More Watch Bet she wouldn’t be when the revenue comes in from RUclips =)
"Never get out of the boat. Absolutely goddamn right. Unless you're gonna go all the way. Seiko had got off the boat. They'd split from the whole ****ing program!"
$1,000 for a misaligned bezel and a watch losing nearly 30s per day? 😱😱😱😱
My thoughts exactly ..... not good for that price !
Amen to that. I often use that expression at work...Never get out of the boat... Once in a while, one of the older guys will get it and smile or wink.
My SD version has a perfectly aligned bezel & is running at +4 seconds a day, straight outta the Chinese box.
Isn’t it sad that over the years we have been conditioned to accept a certain level of mediocrity when it comes to QC.....
It wasn’t always like that though. I’d say only the last few years - maybe 10 cos time flies haha their older stuff is very well made and runs and runs. You can find so many examples of 50 year old Seikos never serviced that still run spot on. You’re right - it’s a shame.
zack oblong I actually like this piece, love the colour but yep think I agree it’s even past my bezel tolerance. The movement I think would actually likely wear in and when on wrist give a pretty decent accuracy but there’s no need for the bezel to be out almost a full click on a $1500 watch. Feel a bit sorry for the bloke who’s purchased it as he’ll read all this and think we’re a bunch of you know what’s! 🤪
I’ve got the black one. Bezel is excellent and line up well. Runs at approx -2 spd on the wrist and +2 spd overnight off the wrist. Can’t complain about that.
Thats a lucky draw you got there
Same here. I got the Seiko Willard black edition and it lines up fine and the movement keeps perfect time. I also got it new on a black Friday sale for £600.
@@maxpaws3977 a great deal 👍
I remember growing up my dad will play Apocalypse now, he would put it through the stereo so it's loud. He would turn up the volume so loud you can feel it. The scene where the helicopters fly into the village, guns blazing and music blaring. He said the movie was pretty accurate. He was over there 68 to 69 with 101st airborne. It was never a good night when that movie was on. It wasn't a good time for him or a lot of people.
That misaligned bezel would be something I could never unsee and would drive me nuts. I do love the colour though.
To be fair Rolex sell $20,000 GMT masters that also have misaligned bezels. If any other brands tried to sell something for that much with a misaligned bezel, they would be crucified.
@@howardjackson8095 however, you do realize that the number of misaligned bezels on a Rolex are far fewer than those on a Seiko? I don't even think you can compare the two.
I have reinstalled and properly aligned the bezel inserts on all my Seiko divers. I sleep much better now.
@@Jon81G Weird I must be lucky. I have this watch and the the 143, 053 and 125...no issues.
That's OK...
I have my Heimdallr Sharkey to keep me company during my drunk rampages in motel rooms...
🥴
"... What are the charges? ..."
I know right? My Heimdallr is a pretry good looking Seiko (no pun intended 😜) and is well made. Eye catchy.
"What did I do?"
Loving my San Martin 62MAS logo-less as well with nuclear lume.
My 69 dollar invicta sea wolf lines up. Explain to me why this is 1000 dollars.
Hello mate! Long time no Invicta! Hope you're safe and well.
@@JustOneMoreWatch all is good sir! Man I have a new Invicta review every week! Got a pagani coming in the mail. Stay tuned
@RandomUser221 you sound like a bit of a turd yourself
I really like the fact that Seiko doesn’t put the cheesy „S“ on the crown of their Prospex watches; although it would be cool to have the „LOCK↪️“ engraving that some of the vintage Seiko divers have on the crown.
When I see these fat cushion cased Turtle-like watches I feel like Seiko's engineers and designers had Xzybit in the room: "Yo dawg, we heard you like cases, so we put a case around your watch case."
You can have more or less 10 Vostoks for it. I wouldnt hesitate.
You could but you shouldn't
That seiko is a stunner, I paid £1200 GBP for one and regretted it immediately because of the misalignment and a couple of other issues
I didn’t want to wear it daily in case it got damaged before I sold it on
I sold it at a slight loss and bought a steel dive homage to wear daily for £100 GBP
I have a number of seiko‘ s and at the risk of some criticism, the steel dive is a better watch than the one I sold
The steel band it came with was not good but the free waffle strap it came with was excellent
Seiko movement, hacking and hand winding, lumed ceramic insert, saphire crystal, and they can be modded with seiko oem parts
Would love to see the two reviewed side by side
All the best Jody, great video, and loved the podcast
The chinese steel dive? the one with the mask? i have been playing with the idea of buying one, you saying that gave me the courage i needed
Carlos Manjarrez you will not regret it, I wore mine out in public for the first time a few days ago and got 2 comments
1st wow is that a Willard
2 nd beautiful watch mate
Ditto. Bought a Steel dive for £105 at same time as Padi Turtle £340. Crown detached from turtle on day one. Steeldive overall better quality. Gained 1 sec in a week when constantly wearing.
This Seiko release makes the micro brands offerings at about 1/10 of the price redundant - Oops, there's two men in white coats at the door, excuse me!!! atb snack.
🤣 See you again when and if they let you go Snack!
Full Metal Bracelet was a great war movie too
Seiko is now a poor $1000 homage to a superior $100 Steeldive. Ludicrous.
Yeah, $1000 for a dodgy bezel, a questionable movement, unsigned crown, I mean really!
Lovely looking watch, wish SEIKO would do more tool/military designs but agree, can't see value in $1k USD. Love the shirt though Jody!
Seikos new pricing is a huge turn off to the brand. Even the mid tear comes with a crappy bracelet. There are microbrands offering the same movement for a lot less money and a much better watch. 1000.00 Insane. It does have a 70s vibe though. I have had it with their rip off prices. 1000 to 1500 dollars for a frikin Seiko is just nuts. Grand Seiko is another watch entirely, better movements and polishing and accuracy. I love the spring drive. There are chines specials with Seiko movements for 100 dollars or less. Seiko line up with the marks, good luck with that. QC has been a problem as far back as I can remember. You can still find padi watches from Seiko under 300, well last time I looked.
I totaly agree.
Exactly! At least improve the quality to justify the price! Bad move..
Totally agree. Grand Seiko, as expensive as all their models are, seems kinda like a valuable watch compared to many lower level models (whom many I still find too expensive for me). At least the GS's seems to be giving many even more expensive Swiss luxury watches a hard time. Seiko is unfortunately starting to lose their since long good reputation of being affordable watches with great quality with this policy.
I guess I'll just have to get my hands on one or two good old 7s26 Seiko Fives that still are available at maximum $100 before their gone, and remember the old days.
Since your review Jody, they came out with a third variant and that is the Blue Special Edition Willard. It is a stunning looking watch. The blue is mesmerizing and I was fortunate to get an aligned bezel and my accuracy is spot on after a few days. I purchased mine from an AD in the US and told him to check the bezel to see if it was aligned perfectly otherwise I didn't want it. He sent me a beauty. I was going to go for the black until I saw the blue and no regrets. I will say it is definitely overpriced.
Geez... a thousand bucks and bezel doesn’t line up ..
Unless Seiko has the word “Grand” in front of it, once I’m past that $999 mark, I’m in Swiss territory.
What would be the best watch to purchase for anything between $1000 - $1500 in your opinion?
@@wengleon sinn
A watch connoisseur like you should know that there’s no such thing as “Swiss made” in the $999 price range.. “Swiss made” written on the dial doesn’t necessarily mean that the watch has been entirely made in Switzerland.
your loss
One thousand dollars and a misaligned bezel... Very Seiko indeed 😂
Seiko is loosing their mind with their new price policy.
They are certainly turning the screw. It'll only backfire if people stop buying them though 🤷
@@JustOneMoreWatch I think people would still pay this more "premium" prices, so we probably gonna stick to them
Just One More Watch Well, they have to go upmarket. 10 to 15 years ago, Quartz watches were still selling like hot cake but now this market is going to the Smartwatches. And who buys mechanical watches? The enthusiasts. And they will much rather buy higher end pieces than lower end.
@@thomasa.243 I think the Chinese market is getting bigger and bigger everyday in the lower end category of watches. Orient is now the "new Seiko" considering they offer nice watches at a much more affordable and reasonable price. Let's see how this new direction affects Seiko in the following years... My guess is that they would do great but they are not going to be a brand that offers an awesome value for money like 2 or 3 years ago.
TheRodentryResistance 95 Hmm, I know quite a few people living in China and most of them either use Smartwatches, Casio G-Shock or Middle to High End Swiss Watches like Tissot or Longines but Seiko or Orient, less. The problem I see with Seiko is that they do not really have a defined market. A lot of Swiss brands are clearly positioned, especially the one from Swatch Group, but Seiko bundles everything under one name basically...
Hi Jody! Great channel.. informative and fun to watch!
The black dial version runs about $1300 USD, which makes these QC issues seem far worse. Think I’ll buy the Yema Flygraf Pilot M1 for half the price.
Love the honesty of your videos. Please never lose that.
Thanks for the tribute to one of my favorite movies of all time. Great movie, mediocre watch reissue. If San Martin can make such an amazing homage at $22O USD, Seiko can make one as well.Put a 4R35 in it and every watch nerd everywhere will buy one. Seiko don't surf!
What a ripoff. This is a $500 watch. You want value, check out Christopher Ward, especially their worldtimer GMT or C65 lineup.
That is some very disappointing specs for a watch of that price point! I am losing faith in Seiko watches the more I hear about them. I hate to see this happening. I acquired a newer Seiko recently, and the band was nowhere near the quality of my older ones either! Great review as always Jody!!!
I already loved my "steel dive" hommage, but after seeing your review I love it more! (quality/price is unbeatable)...You certainly have a future as an actor, by the way ;o)
Ha! Thanks mate, but I'm not sure many would agree. Hard to justify the price of these other than the brand/authenticity.
Dramat w trzech aktach. Źle chodzi, okropnie zmontowany i jeszcze kolor sraczkowaty. Wszystko za duże pieniądze. Pozdrowienia z Wrocławia.
How they react to bringing this back is the make-or-break for me. Sometimes stuff gets built wrong. On a bottom-price Seiko or Casio, where they make thousands upon thousands, it's more understandable. On a watch in this price range, well, nothing is perfect, but you would expect them (or maybe the place you bought it) to fix/replace for you. If they do, it's forgive and forget. If not, well, it's the opposite.
For me a misaligned bezel on a $300 watch is complete disappointment - let alone a $1000 watch. UNFORGIVABLE
Yes you know someone is going to say steeldive £129 and running 3 seconds fast a day .. not a seiko but nevertheless amazing value. CHARLIE DON’T SERF
Holy crap, that beat error & accuracy (lack of) I’ve got a citizen pro master diver that cost me a £100 that runs way better than that!
"If he wants to relive this moment, he always got this video to refer back to." LMAO!
Loved the Apocalypse intro as well. Also, you need to do more impressions of various actors/characters with various English accents, you have an entertaining talent there for sure (without being over the top). Anyways, a smaller Turtle/retro 6105 model would be welcomed by me with quite small wrists. I'm awaiting a Steeldive "Willard" hopingly soon arriving, and I'm curious to see how that one will fit me.
I agree about the critique (not called "moans and niggles" here, huh?!), Seiko has to deliver again like they used to, and not just put out more and more pricier watches without the old school quality value they got known for. Well, I guess it's time to check out Orient models a little more in depth now.. As always, great video and keep up the good work.
Wow! It’s almost as nice as my Steeldive version!😉
OMG Seiko! 🤦♂️ On one hand a watch for a grand, misaligned bezel, unsigned crown and an upgraded yet so badly regulated movement, on the other hand my budget Steeldive 6105 hommage, signed crown, fully lumed and perfectly aligned ceramic bezel, NH35 movement that I regulated myself to 0 ms beat error and +3 secs/day....Do you think I am going to queue up to buy one of these? Would you???
Disgustingly overpriced ,For mugs only .Nice review as ever tho mate
That intro, the best 😂 Glad to see the Steely Dan rep too...
For the Seiko 6R35 movement the life angle is 53 and you have to wind it before testing it on the time grapher as it is a 3 day movement. Made the same mistakes when testing mine and was surprised to find it operating well within COSC on the wrist. If the beat error and amplitude on your time grapher were accurate the movement could be considered broken or in dire need of service.
Jody , very similar in appearance to the Bulova 666 “ Devil Diver “ ......
Why would you want a signed crown on a watch like this?
I absolutely love this watch. I was so close to pulling the trigger on one ($1495 Cdn), until I watched three reviews where every piece had misaligned bezels. For that price, that kind of poor quality control is inexcusable and undeserving of my hard earned dollars. I will not buy another Seiko until I can physically inspect it first. I currenty own a Turtle, PADI Samurai, and a Sumo. The Samurai and Sumo both had misaligned bezel inserts. Once you see that, you can't unsee it. Finally I sent them to a Seiko modder and had the bezel inserts swapped out with ceramic ones and I also had the Hardlex replaced with sapphire crystals. Now I am wearing those watches more often. I guess Seiko does not care about quality control as long as we keep giving them our money and just tsk tsk about it like its just something to expect as if it is a charming quirk of the brand.
It's gorgeous...but just not worth $1000.
Better to get a nice swiss made or better the steeldive😁
A little disappointing. It seems like seiko thinks they're doing everyone a big favour when they add sapphire. And is the 6r really that much better than the 4r, power reserve aside? I have a 4r35 samurai and I'm quite pleased with its consistency - plus 6 to 8 every day of the week. Still, this version of the Willard is worth it if you get a good one.
At this price, Seiko needs better QC and a more reliable/accurate movement. I can tolerate these issues in a $200 SKX, but not a $1000 watch.
The 6R35 is actually a fantastic movement, but I still agree about the price. My feeling is that because Seiko doesn't really have a movement between the 6R and 8L series they can't really move beyond the 6R without approaching ¬2000USD. They could at least make up for the price with some finer materials (more titanium divers etc), refinement and QC. Until then I'd say the last generation of divers was the peak value for money era for seiko divers.
For a grand I'd rather buy 50 Casios and make a bath of it.
That'd do it mate 😂
If all you can afford is a $50 gshock.?. Well this watch is not for you. Hell even the 500 turtles are not for you
Phillip Pugh he meant 50 casios not a $50 casio
@@phillippugh2161 At least a 50 dollar seiko is value for money . But if you want to buy a 1000 dollar watch , that is far from accurate and has a misaligned bezel , well good for you .You get what you pay for , but not in this case .
Sorry i meant casio , i was so angry and disappointed at watch , i was not thnking straight .i
Random Rob from Random Rob channel mentioned that timegrapher readings don't really reflect the watch actual timing accuracy. You gonna wear it to find out.
10:19 me when a sexy new Seiko is released
Nice intro, Jody, and I gotta agree with you about Seiko disappointing their fans as well as new hobbyists with QC issues. Whatever happened to striving for perfection even on more basic consumer models? Dare I say it, Seiko is starting to remind me of American automobile marketing strategies in the 80's where they made crappy cars that were practically falling apart on the lot just to upsell you - and for a lot more money you still only got something that was just decent which came along with some cheesy prestige model name. I'm American so I hope I can say that without sounding too brash.
👏👏👏👏 I watched your intro… Looked over at the DVD cabinet and spotted Apocalypse Now… Ready to watch three hours of movie Magic! Thanks!
I think it's actually good value for the quality of the case finishing and the amazing bracelet. I have two willards and they are perfectly aligned and within 5s. But I only but from Jewellers to see what I am getting, and not mail order ..
If you can stand not having that brand name on the dial,check out the Steeldive 6105 homage which comes in several colours and is a truly accurate homage with all the specs including the good old NH35 movement and sapphire crystal for less than $200.They're great,I should know because I have one and I love it.....................................
AND THE OSCAR FOR MOST PROMISING NEWCOMER GOES TO..... LOL ..... 😂😂 QC is terrible at that price.... you are basically paying $1000 for the brand name only ....Heimdallr or Steeldive have better Value and specs at a far lower price.
Your Seiko analysis is spot on, I'm done buying Seiko until things change. Plenty of Swiss options for those prices. Perhaps Orient is the new Seiko
Look into Orients is correct. I have a number of them. Fabulous watches.
@@michaelhargis7036 As do I. Movements are accurate as well 😁
I recently got myself a new Seiko, an SBEJ003 Landmaster, and I'll be the first to admit it's no catwalk-model Marinemaster 300 when it comes to classic looks...but, it's their willingness to try new things that has sold the brand on me. Heck, their history is practically built on trying new things. Maybe surprisingly, I don't know, but none of my 5 Seiko's from Sea Urchin to Landmaster has QC issues. I'm still a little appalled that the Rolex root beer...an unattainable watch I once lusted after...that you reviewed, had the dodgy flaws it did. That was my "Never meet your heroes" moment.
Ahh.. new $1k+ Seikos and the new 6R35
.. I got a new SBDC105 (Brown dial gilt 62mas reissue) and it is running about -30 secs out of the box?! On full charge, too?! But, bezel is perfectly aligned though.. i guess about an extra -15 secs in exchange for the perfect bezel alignment. Overall, i still love the watch, it's a beauty, but the experience is bittersweet to say the least.. the bitter part being a bit more bitter than I'd like this time.
Not impressed by the new 6r35. My tolerance is +/-6 per day, all of my mechanicals run at least that of not better. My overall tolerance for deviance is +/-30 secs. I'd set my watch + or - accordingly to max out my usage before needing to reset the watch again. So, essentially, I'd have to reset the SBDC105 every 2 days. Waiting for my local watchmaker to open up so he can help me open the caseback so I can adjust the regulation...the case back is really torqued on hard on this one and need help my cheap case opening tools cannot do.
I do really like this green Willard x
. Bit for about $1200 USD and high potential for qc issues and my recent experience with a new 62mas reissues
.. I highly doubt I will ever get one in the foreseeable future.
If Seiko is serious about these price increases they must solve these QC issues. Misaligned bezels, beat error and edge of tolerance accuracy (not to mention watches slow down over time so running that slow out of the box is not good!) is tolerable at $300, but completely unacceptable at $1,000. I got a Rdunae 6105 turtle for $179 that scratches this itch and won't be looking back. Thanks for the review :)
Sorry but MEH nothing special. One thing just to big and clunky for my taste, now await the hate mail............................
Just ordered mine today. I got the steel bracelet version for £200 off from an official Seiko outlet. Should be with me Monday. This video was a factor in my decision. The first expensive watch I've bought since my Omega Speedmaster back on 2005. Despite the criticisms I'm certain that once you can't get these anymore folks will go mad for them.
I agree Jody, too expensive for what it is. Even looks wise, it hss lost a lot of the charm of the original. Great review Jody
Funny when there has been PARNIS Have better scores on the time TIME GRAPHER
nope..... nope and nope. save $800.00usd and get a Timex 1963... lol. thky dan t palm springs calif USA
1000 USD for a 3 Hz movement? Not really.
There are a ton of excellent high end 3hz movements. But this particular one is performing like crap. I would be pissed to drop that much money for a new watch running like that.
Nice vid. Would be useful to have the watch pendant down when on the timing machine... please.
This video started after a different one finished, and I had no idea what was happening at first.
Yep, my Heimdallr homage sure is a beauty - the lume pip fell off after wearing it 4 times. I'm certainly not hard on my watches either, and none of my Seiko's have ever done that. I have the SPB151 and it's miles better than the Heimdallr in fit and finish.
Epic.
Thanks mate! I had fun. My wife/camerawoman, not so much.
@@JustOneMoreWatch Well she did a much better job than my 8 year old son does when I need an assistant.
apocalypse now was not like Vietnam at all.
It was a great movie though.
I've got a slightly off SKX bezel, which is fine because it is what it is and runs like a tank, but you're 100% right. If Seiko wants to claw upmarket, they need to start getting right stuff even the dodgiest microbrand can do.
Major QC issues....as usual....the STEELDIVE at a tenth of the price is a clear winner!
Got my green Willard at the start of July. Took a punt unseen but with a decent discount from an AD in the UK and thankfully the one I got is perfect. Bezel perfectly aligned, fit and finish spot on and the crown is smooth to operate. Well happy with it, though I swap between a nato green tropic and an olive green Marine Nationale strap instead of the OG one it came with.
Hi Jody, would love you to do a comparison to the steel dive homage of the same
All the best
Steeldive value off the charts. Makes this one look a wee bit pricey.....
Great looking, especially the case finish, but the niggles, for THAT price?!!!,
Is there some arbitrary reason to mispronounce the movie character's name as Captain 'will-ARD?' You don't say, "sei-KO." The character's name is pronounced "WILL-erd." They say it like that in the movie about a hundred times.
Love Seiko lume and style. HATE mis-aligned bezels...simply won't buy a watch with crap alignment.
Absolutely awesome intro! 👍🏾🤣
But too much in the unboxing! Leave some details for the full review! Unless...you're actually going to the jungles of Vietnam for the full review?!?!? 😮
Loved the introduction of this video referencing Apocalypse Now!
I've got 2 SKX007 and with the new pricing for Seikos and the offerings from Helm, San Martin, Zelos at fraction of the cost.... they might be my last Seikos... until GRAND SEIKO 10 years from now.
sweet. bitchen video. always great. im a seiko skx013 and sbbn031 out.
I very much want this watch and I will probably pull the trigger. But. That. Bezel. Come on.
Errrrr we're in Oris territory at $1100... Sapphire Crystal + 6R35 + Movie Appearance = $550+ MRC over a regular turtle at least according to Seiko.
I dislike the huge turtle style case. I purchased a Seiko 6309-7049 in Toronto in 1983 to replace a Caravelle automatic 666 Diver Ref. 665 Cal 11OPACD (2472) and rarely wear it.
A Turtle (SPB777) in these colors, with the same 6R35 motor *_BUT_* the the round Turtle hour markers and these same hands would be *_F A N T A S T I C_***. Hello, mods!!! With a properly aligned chapter ring AND a bezel *WHICH ALSO LINES UP CORRECTLY* (cough, cough...) would be sweet icing on a tasty, delicious slice of cake.
"Are you an assasin?"..."They say you've gone completely insane."
Love the movie!!!
I identify as an attack helicopter .... i better get this watch ..... hmmm that price ... I'll stick with my Turtles
You just put the nail in the coffin for me. I was going to buy an SPD265 which has (in the pictures a nice aqua face) but with those specs and the fact that I'm a radio operator and with $1000 USD on the line --NO WAY! Also, the actual SPD265 face in reality is very dark, nothing like the pictures depicts. This would have been my first 'automatic.' Your review brings up great points of realistic expectation for the price-class.
I do have a question: If you have access to the Seiko Boutique and you constantly wore the watch for temperature reasons; what is the best seconds/month you could expect from this, or say a $500-$750 USD Seiko Turtle?
Thanks for the Review from the Lower-48...
70 hours reserve! Well well well...about time. I swear when these watches were released they were quoted as have a 40 (50?) hour reserve. Well done Seiko. Edit....just got to the end.... -22s/day....hard pass. How about a quartz version? Gasp!!!!
No signed crown. Misaligned bezel. $1000. -16s/day. Smh. Seiko doesn't get my money!😠 I've been buying from others. Casio has some nice offerings.
Better off with a Steel Diver, “DeepOcean”, which looks pretty much identical, and in my opinion, a much better build quality for about &850.00 USD less.
Pity. I’d like it for $350-450, but the fact that it is selling for $1000 is laughable. Nice watch, just overpriced when compared to the market.
Nice watch Iconic but $1000+ dollarinos is not my cup of Dilmah especially when you showed us the Steeldive Clomage 6105 for 130 Us On AliExpress,Thanks for that.