Although I've gotten random compliments on mine, it's really a watch for true horology enthusiasts who appreciate the high quality and the accuracy and innovative movement. Personally, I don't give Rolex wearers nearly the respect I do for GS owners.
Great review except for the part when you try to explain how spring drive works. Seiko replaced the escapement with the so-called tri-synchro regulator. In a nutshell it works like follows: the rotor powers the mainspring which in turn powers a glide wheel, which passes by a magnet which produces electricity. The electricity powers an integrated chip, an electromagnetic brake and it causes the quartz to oscillate. The chip compares the speed of the second sweep with the oscillations of the quartz 8 times per second and wether the SS is too fast or too slow the chip applies more or less of the electromagnetic brake. Seiko States +- 1 second a day, but most users state +4 seconds a month, which makes it 48 seconds a year. Pretty insane for a mechanical watch!
Out of all the watch bloggers/reviewers, you are my favourite..... you’re doing a great job and the way you talk about the watches is detailed and thorough......without being pretentious (like some of the others...... I was pleased to see your review of the Bremont u-2, a watch that I now own....
Great review of a fantastic watch. From what I have read in many official reviews the bezel is actually inlaid with Titanium Carbide Ceramic. The 9R65 movement is an absolute technical marvel, mine is accurate to -1.5 sec/month.
You have owned a spring drive watch for 10 years and now you have a second one… that’s wild. I’ve dreamed of owning one for years. Also the movement is one of the coolest things about this Grand Seiko and I’m very surprised you didn’t know it doesn’t beat. Best review I’ve seen yet though👌🏼
I've had my SBGA029 for several years now.....+5 seconds/month accuracy. Heavy at 201 grams, but it doesn't feel that heavy on the wrist....very comfortable.
Nice video and yes, these are all opinions and here is mine : 1.ceramic bezel may shatter, thats why this bezel material is a good choice.2.pins and collars are superior to screws : screwed pins do not rotate with links and cause stress and wear to links, whereas pin&collar is rotating freely in bracelet links. 3..this clasp is best in the market, stamped material is insignificant if you know anything about material strengths and that quick adjustment on the wrist, pure genius : AFAIK, only Seiko offers this. Got my SBBN031 on my wrist right now, love the quick adjustment, using it all the time.4. 18:25 theres no beat rate, it does not beat, not even with the 28,800 you mention, its spring drive.
Good video. I will share a few things from my perspective. 1. We will appreciate the long minute hand if we understand the principle. You will notice that the normal Seiko divers has smaller and shorter minute hand. So is the Rolex and many others. You need a very good mechanism to carry a long minute and second hands. This is especially true for manual winding watches. Below is my comment on reviews of the GS SBGW series.; "For all seasoned collectors, a classic high end THREE CENTRE HANDS Manual WIND, with long minute hand, and an even longer second hand, is the most desirable. One from Patek would cost you a Benz or a BMW. So, kudos to Grand Seiko, again, for continuing with the SBGW (the latest being the 231), series, giving watch lovers an opportunity to enjoy what the connoisseurs called the Best of watches, at an affordable price, with finishing even Patek would not want to compete. Wonder when Rolex would come out with one and make themselves credible? In this world of marketing, unless you know this basic principle, you would be so intoxicated that there would be no chance for you to wake up to this simple truth. And, if you don't understand why, then, it's better to buy a quartz or an electronic watch with complications that the mechanical watches can never have." As for Ceramic bezel, the Marine master has it. In Astron, the whole watch is ceramic. The 1000 dollar Seiko Transocean also has ceramic. So, this bezel makes a lot of sense as far as functionality goes. The same is true of the clasps. If we go into vintage Seiko, we can see that they always come with something different, but, very practical. It look strange in the beginning, but after using for some time, you are likely to like it. It's like the Dragon chronograph with the extra big pushers. When you wear it, you see that they do not touch your hand. These are stuff that iconic watches are made of. There are some excitement every time you look at them. They are playful and they are fun. That's the main reason i like Seiko.
Quite literally just went to an AD to try this on today. The 44mm wears like a 41mm, and the spring drive movement is amazing, as is the finishing of the case and bracelet. The only thing holding me back was the backplay in the bezel and the enormous hour hand. If these two things were fixed, I'd buy this over a Submariner any day of the week.
One of the best watch reviews I’ve seen. Like you I have Rolexes and a Grand Seiko. I too am in the market for a Rolex Submariner, but I refuse to pay 2K over list. The Rolex is a good watch and will indeed hold its value, but I don’t flip watches so this isn’t a big deal to me. I have a GS GMT, which technically, is superior to Rolex for several reasons. The spring drive movement is arguably the biggest innovation in decades. Nevertheless, this review is rekindling my interest in a GS diver. I too have a 6.75” wrist and agree that the Seiko Diver is the limit. I tried a Ti GS diver on a couple of years ago and was amazed how comfortable is was. My GS GMT is very comfortable and a pleasure to wear. Thanks again for the superb review!
Seiko actually talked about the choice of bassel, they think that as ceramic is relative brittle and need some kind of guard(a rim may be?) that would increase the dimension. They also want the watch to be a bit "dressy" that is having a bassel that have a shape which can better slide into a cuff, thus they choosed not to use ceramic
Lovely watch and great video. Just one little correction the Spring Drive movement doesn't have a beat the second hand has a glide motion that is totally smooth without any ticks. 28,800 bph (4Hz) is standard for most watches including Rolex. 👍
Thanks for the review - I am now enlightened on the high quality Seiko can produce. On the 200m depth comment you made: diver watches have to be rated above the depth they go to (ie recreational diver 40m max) because of movements you make at depth that add additional pressure forces on the watch.
Terrific review. I've an SBGA031 (titanium version of essentially the same watch) totally agree about the clasp extension mech being engages accidentally.
I ignored this watch before because I thought 44mm was too big . MY wrist is 6.3'' and I just got the SBDC061 its 44mm and 50.5mm lug to lug and fits perfect. If the Grand Seiko fits similar to the SBDC061 I will have to add it to my wish list. I went thru the Rolex phase as well and my whole collection was Rolex but now have gone back to Seikos and german watches. I had a GS auto and a quartz and liked them both but moved them on when I got into Rolex. Actually the SBGR053 was one of my favorites out of the 100+ watches I've had since I started collecting. Next grand Seikos fro me to try are this Spring Drive diver and a Spring Drive GMT
They're superb watches with a lot of personality. They're just let down by things like bracelets etc on certain models, which just shouldn't be a problem on this value of watch.
Thanks for the review. I love the Spring Drive technology. Craig Shipp owns this watch and features it whenever he live-streams, however your review points out some things that give me pause, such as the minute hand covering part of the hour hand, and how big it looks on your wrist, which is the same size as mine. A Seiko Samurai also has a 44mm case but wears better because the lug to lug distance is only 47mm.
About the bezel... It was painted finish because in professional use, they've found that ceramic bezels, when damaged would fall off in chips. The painted finish was so that the damage would be as scratches but still remain usable as the numbers and calibration markings would still be there. Another way it could have been done for toughness would be to have the graphics engraved on stainless steel. The advantage of painted bezel graphics was that it could be replaced as it's not really part of the bezel body itself. And the length of the seconds hand goes directly over the seconds markers. You can actually stare at the tip and see exactly when it overlaps the markers. Because it goes over, you can see it even if you're not viewing it perfectly perpendicular to the watch face.
All this is true, thank you. However most people would take a non-GS diver at depth due to the values, so it’s all a little pointless anyhow unfortunately.
Very nice review. I’m on a waiting list for a Sea Dweller 43mm but I think I should consider this GS. I would be inclined to replace that hand set. Seiko could have done better IMO.
Great review mate, I'm on the never-ending Sub waitlist and getting impatient, this has helped me make a decision between this and the omega PO. Cheers
Screws in the bracelet on a diver isn't the best choice. The can come loose while diving. When diving if you lose your dive instrument you are in trouble. GS did this for a reason. Everything they do they have a good reason for it. The clasp I agree is clunky. They can do better.
this guy is incredible - don't buy into others opinions, without your own, first. the team at GS did a great job. the ceramic bezel is not, because of the desire for something tougher - perhaps. if a bezel is pure ceramic, then it is fragile. ceramic is in fashion lately. i mean, first came ceramic brake pads. then ceramic frying pans. now, ceramic bezels. plz. the stamped metal parts ensure the watch stays on the wrist, during a deep-sea dive, and any unforeseen knocks. purely functional. a dress watch can be made for comfort, and slipped off easily. stamped metal parts, hopefully, without rough edges is very acceptable - an engineering standard, if there were one. if it is a legit dive watch, it should be designed as such. true enough, 200m may not be deep enough for some divers...like you want to go to 300m - i bet that watch goes below 200m - and your air supply would be very limited.
It's amazing even at GS level there some aspects of the watch to let it down surly by now Seiko must know this if we notice it.I can except it at the lower end Seiko's but not at this level I think Seiko need to be more intune with what there customer's want and exspect.
The spring drive is extremely dificult to achieve and hard to manufacture. The saratsu polishing is also a lot more work than what rolex does. the high intensity titanium is also dificult to work and you seriously think the price is barely good for it? give me a break.
thing that bothers me most - would be the wrong position of power reserve - Something wrong in Japan - they should check how german cars are made - ie - tank full/tank empty. how its possible - that arrow goes UP - when its empty? :O
Fantastic review. I have bought one and it is Far far superior to my planet Ocean 8500. My only extra want would have been for a clear case back like the PO.
Does it catch the eye when out in daylight..do u get many comments. I'm concerned that I would need to inform people about GS when they ask "whats Grand Seiko?"
Great review i'm a bit of a Seiko fan myself i have quite a few in my collection ( lower priced one's & mid range ) i have a Seiko Prospex forest green SLA019 that has the same sort of clasp it was a bit annoying at first when i would open the clasp & it would pop out but i've got the knack now where i open it & it stays in practice makes perfect as they say. I must admit i would like to get my mitts on a GS snowflake Spring Drive SBGA211 or a GS mechanical Hi-Beat SBGH201G one day to see how it would compare to my Prospex SLA019 but i think that might be a good while away yet ?
I just don't like the HUGE hour and minute hands with the disproportionately small hour markers. I wish GS made something like the Seiko TransOcean with a spring drive movement.
You obviously like watches. Just as obvious, you do not understand watches. To you they are simply jewelry and a status symbol. While all luxury watches fulfill that niche, and they can be simply reviewed on that basis, a Spring Drive is all about Horology and absolute accurate design. Industrial design. Function over fashion. No other watch compares. You have done enough research to know that the GS Spring Drive is somehow a special watch but you do not understand why it is an INCREDIBLY special watch. To compare this watch to any Rolex illustrates a huge misunderstanding of the Spring Drive. You touch on the B.S. Rolex marketing briefly. The delay between purchasing and delivery. The fact they want to play games with the warranty card, etc. This issue should be thoroughly discussed. Nothing about a Rolex (or Omega, et al) is about time keeping. It's all about jewelry and marketing. The top Swiss brands are marketing companies, not watch companies. Their designs have not changed in decades. It blows my mind how many "watch" people simply do not understand the Spring Drive, but they like to get on the internet and talk about them. Some people actually buy them, own them, and still do not understand them. You definitely fall into this latter category. Spring Drive - There simply is no comparison. .
Seiko sweet spot on divers is $500-1000 I have an SBDC053 and love it . If I were to go $3500 -$5000 I would not go Seiko I would go Omega Seamaster hands down.
Great video and fabulous watch however IMHO Seiko needs to utilize a ceramic bezel on a watch of this caliber as well as putting their pieces on a diet and bringing the dimensions down. Kind regards.
And here I was wishing my $500 monster didn't have a stamped clasp! For what they are charging it should be a lot closer to perfect and FYI I have the same size wrist and I think it is really pushing it size wise. It looks better than the deep sea for sure, I think you would be better off with a regular Sub if Rolex actually wanted to sell their watches and you didn't have to go around begging for one like an idiot.
Hi Mate great review on the GS. I'm wondering where you'd recommend buying one here in the UK? Such as websites to look at I'm struggling in finding many places stocking them cheers
If your in London visit the new GS shop in south Kensington. Its more a museum than a shop. People come in just to gaze adoringly. Because GS are relatively low numbers due to hand assembly they depend on shipments from Japan. They lose sales because they dont have stock. But GS philosophy is all about excelence and quality and cultural pride. So they will never turn out a million a year like some. Best.
I agree with the other reply. GS has a boutique near Harrods, as mentioned, and it’s a paradise for anybody in to these. Otherwise I know of Jura watches, and a shoo in Glasgow’s arcade area.
@@WatchHobbyistyou might be a big lad with relatively more slender wrist, should look fine. I am built, but with only 5ft6, it will certainly look funny on me😅
Whenever I hear people avoid saying specifically how much they paid it always makes me think they are afraid they over payed or didn’t get a good deal. It would really help those who are in the market to know a realistic buying price and not the MSRP
In all honesty, knowing what other people paid isn't all that helpful either. All ADs have a bottom line at which they're willing to sell you a watch (assuming you don't know them personally prior to this transaction). Even if you say you know someone who got it for less, they're not obligated to sell it to you for less than they're offering you. If it's a watch that just isn't moving, then sure, but otherwise, I just don't see it happening. It really just all comes down to the relationship you build with them, and how you're approaching the transaction, and how much incentive you're giving them to give you a larger discount.
I dont buy the polishing a bit. Once you achieve full mirror like levels there is no big difference IMO. Same has been said about japanese nepros tools vs snap on tools. Its rubbish having done side by side. Clasp and non ceramic is laziness on part of manufacturer. Like the fact they still use “hardlex” glass on the lower end when they should have upgraded those divers to sapphire by now. My recent Turtle re issue purchase being my gripe. Ill stick w the DSSD and take my chances on a ceramic or screw “failure”. I agree on the hands overlapping as not a good thing. It was immediately apparent once you mentioned it about harder to distinguish the hour hand. The spring drive is innovative and power indicator is nice. I like the low end seiko lume and assuming the GS is at least as good. As to the whole “need” you dont need a phone either arguably. Food, water and shelter is about all you actually need.
There is a difference in the polishing. You can take that GS and hold it next to a newspaper and the letters will look absolutely crisp with next to no distortion. Try that with any other polishing method, mirror polished or not, and see the difference.
No one ever buys anything without seeing it in person. While I still prefer other dive watches to this one, the polishing quality at this price point is only ever present in other Grand Seikos. They may not do hands as well as their competitors, or bracelets, and they may not have the brand image either, but damned if the quality isn't good on these.
That clasp is terrible! for the price it's gotta be some sort of glidelock type clasp surely, and I've seen the bezel peels in time which is a bit of a shame because it's a Beauty watch
@@costasmandylor1565 What are you talking about? It's a very functional dial, especially if you want to know everything about the status of your watch during your ownership. I'd much rather know exactly how much power reserve is left in my watch, instead of estimating "it's probably time to give a wind and reset the time" when i see the watch has lost x amount of seconds throughout the night.
It’s difficult to take your review seriously when you blow it severely when you mention the “beat” of this watch. It has no beat. It is 100% smooth. You should know that.
Rolexes are sure built to last, no doubt about it. But taking that on blind faith for every single one of their components is stupid. The watch is meant to last, as in the movement itself. No one said anything about the bezel.
Should have bought the Oris '65 if the bezel bugs you into a three minute speech about the GS not having a more expensive damageable component. But again, like the GS, it too has a seconds hand that is too easy read underwater. What a time to be alive.
It's important to understand that Seiko are making functionality decisions with the bezel and clasp. They can do more stylish solutions, as you've seen, but they're building a high quality watch for real divers.
I disagree judging by the new, very expensive range of watches released at Basel which now have ceramic. I think they were just behind the times on these, and they know "real divers" would probably wear less expensive watches.
@@WatchHobbyist what are you disagreeing about? That Seiko can't do more stylish watches or that this diver is deliberately less stylish than they could make because they focused on functionality & reliability?
This shows how far you have to go to be "different" (which translates into "quirky") in a segment that is absolutely owned by the Rolex Submariner. GS is certainly great and all but in reality this watch doesn't hold a candle to the Sub.
@@ivanoschen It's more accurate, made out of a better material, and more comfortable on the wrist. I also think it looks better. So yes, it is clearly a much better watch.
Better movement, longer power reserve, better lume, what exactly is better about the sub? I own a 11610 and I had an lv. Great watches but this GS is better.
Too big. What Japanese man has a wrist big enough for these??? I too have a disdain for Rolex... but for a dive watch, I would much rather have a brand new Omega Seamaster with the ceramic dial and waves or an Omega Planet Ocean (39.5mm)... or even a Sinn U1.
Not single mention about the bezel action. The Rolex is unquestionably the best in the world. Period. Too much money for the GS at AD prices. Defo a better considered purchase second hand.
Argument for using AL vs ceramic is BS. It is just cost cutting and nothing more. Same with pins. Even $100 chinese knockoffs have that so no excuse. Same for clasps. If you think they're doing it for the safety of divers well you are just misinformed at best. Not to mention misalignmet issues (Not sure in GS and don't think so but happens in 2k plus Marine masters). For the money thay charge on those higher end watches everything should be perfect or close to it.
Most of the misalignment you find on Seiko watches are from the factories outside Japan on the much cheaper mass produced models. There are no major watch manufacturers that don't have issues with quality control. I've personally seen misalignment on Rolex bezels crystals and hands straight from the factory. Look at watcherfinders video. There's a Rolex with two nines on the dial. How does that escape quality control??? Don't believe me, search WUS forum, there are many examples. Omega has the same problems. A forum search will reveal more of the same. Grand Seiko on the other hand, no qc issues I've ever heard of. Just happy owners.
You say that, but how many watches do you know are perfect at this price? I'd wager that every single one of them have units that are sold that don't have the best quality control, regardless if its Rolex or Grand Seiko or Omega, and even at higher price points like Patek. To be frank, if looking for perfect build quality is your top concern, luxury watches aren't it. It's more for the sense of horology, art, and (let's be honest) exclusivity and class that people like about these watches.
Seiko always copy the design of Rolex and Omega. This model is a combination of Submariner and Planet Ocean. Looks at the hands...Not worth for the price.
Although I've gotten random compliments on mine, it's really a watch for true horology enthusiasts who appreciate the high quality and the accuracy and innovative movement. Personally, I don't give Rolex wearers nearly the respect I do for GS owners.
Great review except for the part when you try to explain how spring drive works.
Seiko replaced the escapement with the so-called tri-synchro regulator. In a nutshell it works like follows: the rotor powers the mainspring which in turn powers a glide wheel, which passes by a magnet which produces electricity. The electricity powers an integrated chip, an electromagnetic brake and it causes the quartz to oscillate. The chip compares the speed of the second sweep with the oscillations of the quartz 8 times per second and wether the SS is too fast or too slow the chip applies more or less of the electromagnetic brake. Seiko States +- 1 second a day, but most users state +4 seconds a month, which makes it 48 seconds a year. Pretty insane for a mechanical watch!
Out of all the watch bloggers/reviewers, you are my favourite..... you’re doing a great job and the way you talk about the watches is detailed and thorough......without being pretentious (like some of the others...... I was pleased to see your review of the Bremont u-2, a watch that I now own....
Thanks Steve, that’s really nice of you
Great review of a fantastic watch. From what I have read in many official reviews the bezel is actually inlaid with Titanium Carbide Ceramic. The 9R65 movement is an absolute technical marvel, mine is accurate to -1.5 sec/month.
You have owned a spring drive watch for 10 years and now you have a second one… that’s wild. I’ve dreamed of owning one for years. Also the movement is one of the coolest things about this Grand Seiko and I’m very surprised you didn’t know it doesn’t beat. Best review I’ve seen yet though👌🏼
I've had my SBGA029 for several years now.....+5 seconds/month accuracy. Heavy at 201 grams, but it doesn't feel that heavy on the wrist....very comfortable.
Nice video and yes, these are all opinions and here is mine : 1.ceramic bezel may shatter, thats why this bezel material is a good choice.2.pins and collars are superior to screws : screwed pins do not rotate with links and cause stress and wear to links, whereas pin&collar is rotating freely in bracelet links. 3..this clasp is best in the market, stamped material is insignificant if you know anything about material strengths and that quick adjustment on the wrist, pure genius : AFAIK, only Seiko offers this. Got my SBBN031 on my wrist right now, love the quick adjustment, using it all the time.4. 18:25 theres no beat rate, it does not beat, not even with the 28,800 you mention, its spring drive.
Very good assessment of the whole Rolex deal. It's such a turn-off now, I have two grand SEIKO and love them
@Sergio Tanner do how does your comment have anything to do with the subject ....
Good video. I will share a few things from my perspective.
1. We will appreciate the long minute hand if we understand the principle. You will notice that the normal Seiko divers has smaller and shorter minute hand. So is the Rolex and many others. You need a very good mechanism to carry a long minute and second hands. This is especially true for manual winding watches. Below is my comment on reviews of the GS SBGW series.;
"For all seasoned collectors, a classic high end THREE CENTRE HANDS Manual WIND, with long minute hand, and an even longer second hand, is the most desirable. One from Patek would cost you a Benz or a BMW. So, kudos to Grand Seiko, again, for continuing with the SBGW (the latest being the 231), series, giving watch lovers an opportunity to enjoy what the connoisseurs called the Best of watches, at an affordable price, with finishing even Patek would not want to compete.
Wonder when Rolex would come out with one and make themselves credible? In this world of marketing, unless you know this basic principle, you would be so intoxicated that there would be no chance for you to wake up to this simple truth. And, if you don't understand why, then, it's better to buy a quartz or an electronic watch with complications that the mechanical watches can never have."
As for Ceramic bezel, the Marine master has it. In Astron, the whole watch is ceramic. The 1000 dollar Seiko Transocean also has ceramic. So, this bezel makes a lot of sense as far as functionality goes. The same is true of the clasps. If we go into vintage Seiko, we can see that they always come with something different, but, very practical. It look strange in the beginning, but after using for some time, you are likely to like it. It's like the Dragon chronograph with the extra big pushers. When you wear it, you see that they do not touch your hand. These are stuff that iconic watches are made of. There are some excitement every time you look at them. They are playful and they are fun. That's the main reason i like Seiko.
Vacheron - 20,000 pieces per year.
Grand Seiko - 35,000 pieces per year.
Patek - 50,000 pieces per year.
Rolex - 700,000 pieces per year.
wtf
85% of Rolexes probably go to flippers who have unsurprisingly the best purchase history. Its a joke
Quite literally just went to an AD to try this on today. The 44mm wears like a 41mm, and the spring drive movement is amazing, as is the finishing of the case and bracelet. The only thing holding me back was the backplay in the bezel and the enormous hour hand. If these two things were fixed, I'd buy this over a Submariner any day of the week.
Try another example. Mine has zero bezel play, as in none whatsoever.
One of the best watch reviews I’ve seen. Like you I have Rolexes and a Grand Seiko. I too am in the market for a Rolex Submariner, but I refuse to pay 2K over list. The Rolex is a good watch and will indeed hold its value, but I don’t flip watches so this isn’t a big deal to me. I have a GS GMT, which technically, is superior to Rolex for several reasons. The spring drive movement is arguably the biggest innovation in decades. Nevertheless, this review is rekindling my interest in a GS diver. I too have a 6.75” wrist and agree that the Seiko Diver is the limit. I tried a Ti GS diver on a couple of years ago and was amazed how comfortable is was. My GS GMT is very comfortable and a pleasure to wear. Thanks again for the superb review!
Fantastic review. I agree regarding the stamped metal clasp, I really wish GS had a heftier clasp.
Seiko actually talked about the choice of bassel, they think that as ceramic is relative brittle and need some kind of guard(a rim may be?) that would increase the dimension. They also want the watch to be a bit "dressy" that is having a bassel that have a shape which can better slide into a cuff, thus they choosed not to use ceramic
Patina!!
Lovely watch and great video. Just one little correction the Spring Drive movement doesn't have a beat the second hand has a glide motion that is totally smooth without any ticks. 28,800 bph (4Hz) is standard for most watches including Rolex. 👍
awesome watch. very thorough review and objectively based on his own experience with the watch. can't ask for much more than that. well done.
Thanks for the review - I am now enlightened on the high quality Seiko can produce.
On the 200m depth comment you made: diver watches have to be rated above the depth they go to (ie recreational diver 40m max) because of movements you make at depth that add additional pressure forces on the watch.
Terrific review. I've an SBGA031 (titanium version of essentially the same watch) totally agree about the clasp extension mech being engages accidentally.
I ignored this watch before because I thought 44mm was too big . MY wrist is 6.3'' and I just got the SBDC061 its 44mm and 50.5mm lug to lug and fits perfect. If the Grand Seiko fits similar to the SBDC061 I will have to add it to my wish list. I went thru the Rolex phase as well and my whole collection was Rolex but now have gone back to Seikos and german watches. I had a GS auto and a quartz and liked them both but moved them on when I got into Rolex. Actually the SBGR053 was one of my favorites out of the 100+ watches I've had since I started collecting. Next grand Seikos fro me to try are this Spring Drive diver and a Spring Drive GMT
They're superb watches with a lot of personality. They're just let down by things like bracelets etc on certain models, which just shouldn't be a problem on this value of watch.
derfdswed 100 watches! Wow. You must have a lot of wrists.
Spring drives don’t beat like regular automatics. Great review. Love mine!
How come?
@@qdp03 Because spring drive and not ecapement. There are a few GS SD videos available her on YT explaining it.
This review is perfect. Well done. Mine is in the mail, picked it up on Reddit for 3200 usd.
Greetings from Canada
Thanks for the review. I love the Spring Drive technology. Craig Shipp owns this watch and features it whenever he live-streams, however your review points out some things that give me pause, such as the minute hand covering part of the hour hand, and how big it looks on your wrist, which is the same size as mine.
A Seiko Samurai also has a 44mm case but wears better because the lug to lug distance is only 47mm.
Great and awesome movements.! A mechanical with quartz accuracy.Good stuff.Cheers,Len.
25:57
"That's how the diameter works"
Lol, no, it's not how it works.
Screws can cross thread very easily in titanium. Seiko claims that this is the reason for the pins.
Absolutely love these !
About the bezel...
It was painted finish because in professional use, they've found that ceramic bezels, when damaged would fall off in chips. The painted finish was so that the damage would be as scratches but still remain usable as the numbers and calibration markings would still be there. Another way it could have been done for toughness would be to have the graphics engraved on stainless steel. The advantage of painted bezel graphics was that it could be replaced as it's not really part of the bezel body itself.
And the length of the seconds hand goes directly over the seconds markers. You can actually stare at the tip and see exactly when it overlaps the markers. Because it goes over, you can see it even if you're not viewing it perfectly perpendicular to the watch face.
All this is true, thank you. However most people would take a non-GS diver at depth due to the values, so it’s all a little pointless anyhow unfortunately.
Very nice review. I’m on a waiting list for a Sea Dweller 43mm but I think I should consider this GS. I would be inclined to replace that hand set. Seiko could have done better IMO.
Great review mate, I'm on the never-ending Sub waitlist and getting impatient, this has helped me make a decision between this and the omega PO. Cheers
Lord, this steel diver already weighs 200g. Where else do they need a cast bracelet lock .....
I think both of the deepsea and gs diver are too big for you. However, it is all down to personal preference.
Great review. I'd love one but I just can't get over the clasp.
Ceramic bezels is not a matter of price. A ceramic bezel cost 40$
You can even scratch saphire so if you saw grand seikos scratched is kinda normal.
Screws in the bracelet on a diver isn't the best choice. The can come loose while diving. When diving if you lose your dive instrument you are in trouble.
GS did this for a reason. Everything they do they have a good reason for it.
The clasp I agree is clunky. They can do better.
Pins vs screws - if titanium, it has pins because titanium is softer and the screws are at higher risk of stripping
Good to know, thanks!
Ok watch gurus please answer me this which is better a Grand Seiko with spring drive or a Seiko lx prospex which also has the spring drive movement?
this guy is incredible - don't buy into others opinions, without your own, first. the team at GS did a great job. the ceramic bezel is not, because of the desire for something tougher - perhaps. if a bezel is pure ceramic, then it is fragile. ceramic is in fashion lately. i mean, first came ceramic brake pads. then ceramic frying pans. now, ceramic bezels. plz.
the stamped metal parts ensure the watch stays on the wrist, during a deep-sea dive, and any unforeseen knocks. purely functional. a dress watch can be made for comfort, and slipped off easily. stamped metal parts, hopefully, without rough edges is very acceptable - an engineering standard, if there were one. if it is a legit dive watch, it should be designed as such. true enough, 200m may not be deep enough for some divers...like you want to go to 300m - i bet that watch goes below 200m - and your air supply would be very limited.
It's amazing even at GS level there some aspects of the watch to let it down surly by now Seiko must know this if we notice it.I can except it at the lower end Seiko's but not at this level I think Seiko need to be more intune with what there customer's want and exspect.
I think all watchmakers try to cut costs at some level. Even Rolex have their foibles
Never seen a smoother sweep
and you never will...
Excellent video, appreciate it
Seiko bezels are the Achilles heel of the watch
The bezel is not a painted one.
The material is a diamond-like coating or DLC.
The spring drive is extremely dificult to achieve and hard to manufacture. The saratsu polishing is also a lot more work than what rolex does. the high intensity titanium is also dificult to work and you seriously think the price is barely good for it? give me a break.
Thanks but I stand by my opinion. We're all entitled to them :-)
thing that bothers me most - would be the wrong position of power reserve - Something wrong in Japan - they should check how german cars are made - ie - tank full/tank empty.
how its possible - that arrow goes UP - when its empty? :O
What is your accuracy for both Spring Drives?
Fantastic review. I have bought one and it is Far far superior to my planet Ocean 8500. My only extra want would have been for a clear case back like the PO.
Yes good point. Would have looked awesome.
Does it catch the eye when out in daylight..do u get many comments. I'm concerned that I would need to inform people about GS when they ask "whats Grand Seiko?"
Great review i'm a bit of a Seiko fan myself i have quite a few in my collection ( lower priced one's & mid range ) i have a Seiko Prospex forest green SLA019 that has the same sort of clasp it was a bit annoying at first when i would open the clasp & it would pop out but i've got the knack now where i open it & it stays in practice makes perfect as they say.
I must admit i would like to get my mitts on a GS snowflake Spring Drive SBGA211 or a GS mechanical Hi-Beat SBGH201G one day to see how it would compare to my Prospex SLA019 but i
think that might be a good while away yet ?
I absolutely adore the SLA019. Am looking for one to purchase at the moment. Any reason you feel like you should have bought something else instead?
brilliant review
Thanks Paul
Hi, Grand Seiko SBGA229 VS Tudor black bay, Which one is more wearable for small wrist?
I'd say both are limited, but the Tudor is possibly a little shorter
Loved this video.
I just don't like the HUGE hour and minute hands with the disproportionately small hour markers. I wish GS made something like the Seiko TransOcean with a spring drive movement.
They do, it is the SBDB017
.....and SBDB018.
Wow. I just finished your video with you measuring the two watches. Incredible. You sir are truly a man with more money than sense...
You obviously like watches. Just as obvious, you do not understand watches. To you they are simply jewelry and a status symbol. While all luxury watches fulfill that niche, and they can be simply reviewed on that basis, a Spring Drive is all about Horology and absolute accurate design. Industrial design. Function over fashion. No other watch compares. You have done enough research to know that the GS Spring Drive is somehow a special watch but you do not understand why it is an INCREDIBLY special watch. To compare this watch to any Rolex illustrates a huge misunderstanding of the Spring Drive.
You touch on the B.S. Rolex marketing briefly. The delay between purchasing and delivery. The fact they want to play games with the warranty card, etc. This issue should be thoroughly discussed. Nothing about a Rolex (or Omega, et al) is about time keeping. It's all about jewelry and marketing. The top Swiss brands are marketing companies, not watch companies. Their designs have not changed in decades.
It blows my mind how many "watch" people simply do not understand the Spring Drive, but they like to get on the internet and talk about them. Some people actually buy them, own them, and still do not understand them. You definitely fall into this latter category.
Spring Drive - There simply is no comparison.
.
It's still just a Seiko, know what I mean?
Imitation is the most "grand" form of flattery.
@@brandonnickerson8934 lol. And I guess a Ferrari is just a FIAT too, eh?
It is BIG for your hands while you wear it :) just my opinion.
Seiko sweet spot on divers is $500-1000 I have an SBDC053 and love it . If I were to go $3500 -$5000 I would not go Seiko I would go Omega Seamaster hands down.
That's my opinion too.
@@WatchHobbyist why did you buy the GS then
Is this Watch like a Rolex Submariner ( Im New in the Watch Game ) 😅 i wanna buy this one as my first watch
did you end up keeping the GS?
Thorough review.
The Rolex looks way better on your wrist. The GS looks massive on you.
Maybe it's the camera angle!?
Great video and fabulous watch however IMHO Seiko needs to utilize a ceramic bezel on a watch of this caliber as well as putting their pieces on a diet and bringing the dimensions down. Kind regards.
Yes I completely agree with both points.
And here I was wishing my $500 monster didn't have a stamped clasp! For what they are charging it should be a lot closer to perfect and FYI I have the same size wrist and I think it is really pushing it size wise. It looks better than the deep sea for sure, I think you would be better off with a regular Sub if Rolex actually wanted to sell their watches and you didn't have to go around begging for one like an idiot.
Hi Mate great review on the GS. I'm wondering where you'd recommend buying one here in the UK? Such as websites to look at I'm struggling in finding many places stocking them cheers
If your in London visit the new GS shop in south Kensington. Its more a museum than a shop. People come in just to gaze adoringly. Because GS are relatively low numbers due to hand assembly they depend on shipments from Japan. They lose sales because they dont have stock. But GS philosophy is all about excelence and quality and cultural pride. So they will never turn out a million a year like some. Best.
I agree with the other reply. GS has a boutique near Harrods, as mentioned, and it’s a paradise for anybody in to these. Otherwise I know of Jura watches, and a shoo in Glasgow’s arcade area.
Do you still have this?
There is no "tick speed" for this watch. The hand sweeps due to an electromagnet
Great video
the newly upgraded Seiko Marine Master( #SBDX023) got the ceramic bezel, maybe they'll come with the ceramic bezel soon
That would be great
the only problem I have got with this watch, its size. I have a slender wrist, same as yours 6.75" and to me it looks way too big on your wrist.
Yes it’s on the limits, but I wouldn’t say too large. Sometimes the camera doesn’t help
@@WatchHobbyistyou might be a big lad with relatively more slender wrist, should look fine. I am built, but with only 5ft6, it will certainly look funny on me😅
Wtf,. Just say the price you bought it at.
How would you compare this with the Rolex submariner?
Whenever I hear people avoid saying specifically how much they paid it always makes me think they are afraid they over payed or didn’t get a good deal. It would really help those who are in the market to know a realistic buying price and not the MSRP
That's not the case at all. I mention everything because I'm trying to be helpful.
In all honesty, knowing what other people paid isn't all that helpful either. All ADs have a bottom line at which they're willing to sell you a watch (assuming you don't know them personally prior to this transaction). Even if you say you know someone who got it for less, they're not obligated to sell it to you for less than they're offering you. If it's a watch that just isn't moving, then sure, but otherwise, I just don't see it happening. It really just all comes down to the relationship you build with them, and how you're approaching the transaction, and how much incentive you're giving them to give you a larger discount.
I dont buy the polishing a bit. Once you achieve full mirror like levels there is no big difference IMO. Same has been said about japanese nepros tools vs snap on tools. Its rubbish having done side by side. Clasp and non ceramic is laziness on part of manufacturer. Like the fact they still use “hardlex” glass on the lower end when they should have upgraded those divers to sapphire by now. My recent Turtle re issue purchase being my gripe. Ill stick w the DSSD and take my chances on a ceramic or screw “failure”.
I agree on the hands overlapping as not a good thing. It was immediately apparent once you mentioned it about harder to distinguish the hour hand. The spring drive is innovative and power indicator is nice. I like the low end seiko lume and assuming the GS is at least as good. As to the whole “need” you dont need a phone either arguably. Food, water and shelter is about all you actually need.
There is a difference in the polishing. You can take that GS and hold it next to a newspaper and the letters will look absolutely crisp with next to no distortion. Try that with any other polishing method, mirror polished or not, and see the difference.
The minute hand overlaps the hour hand because when diving the minute hand is prioritized. That’s why some diver watches have a coloured minute hand.
You need to examine one in the flesh. There's a reason these are compared to Patek in finishing.
No one ever buys anything without seeing it in person. While I still prefer other dive watches to this one, the polishing quality at this price point is only ever present in other Grand Seikos. They may not do hands as well as their competitors, or bracelets, and they may not have the brand image either, but damned if the quality isn't good on these.
That clasp is terrible! for the price it's gotta be some sort of glidelock type clasp surely, and I've seen the bezel peels in time which is a bit of a shame because it's a Beauty watch
The thickness of the clasp is ridiculous
Agree... their bracelets really need to be sorted out
Is it just me or are the hands huge?
I am curious how much you got it for... :)
probably 50% off.
thanks for your review way to long about the bezel
The power reserve ? just looks out of place
I really like the power reserve. Adds actual functionality to the otherwise quite bland dial.
It's the one thing I really don't like about that watch, and honestly, quite useless.
@@costasmandylor1565 What are you talking about? It's a very functional dial, especially if you want to know everything about the status of your watch during your ownership. I'd much rather know exactly how much power reserve is left in my watch, instead of estimating "it's probably time to give a wind and reset the time" when i see the watch has lost x amount of seconds throughout the night.
Although smaller than the Rolex, I think it's still too big for your wrist... beautiful watches though.
Check out New Grand Seikos coming out August 2020
why are those watch people so obsessed with diving? I have never been diving in my life
Not sure what you mean sorry
That clasp does not in any way look like a normal clasp. It looks like two clasps stuck together and looks massive. I do not like it.
Until you use it. And then it's fantastic.
Don’t know what you got yours for, but these do have discounts from good ADs, especially when you are a repeat customer.
It’s difficult to take your review seriously when you blow it severely when you mention the “beat” of this watch. It has no beat. It is 100% smooth. You should know that.
mike73ng Pedant! 🙄
I love my Grand Seiko and I would not spend the money on a used Rolex.
GS are amazing watches, glad you found a keeper
No one does watch functionality better than Rolex.. they are built to last, so if they are prepared to add a ceramic bezel so should Seiko.
Rolexes are sure built to last, no doubt about it. But taking that on blind faith for every single one of their components is stupid. The watch is meant to last, as in the movement itself. No one said anything about the bezel.
No one does marketing better than Rolex.
Should have bought the Oris '65 if the bezel bugs you into a three minute speech about the GS not having a more expensive damageable component. But again, like the GS, it too has a seconds hand that is too easy read underwater. What a time to be alive.
Wrong , snowflake uses pins not screws
You could try sla019, mm300. It has a zirconia ceramic bezel, with zaratsu polishing.
It does look nice, but it's just too much for what is just an MM300 really
To the un knowing thief it looks like a Rolex .Just learn how to look after yourself wear what you like and look everyone int he eye .
It's important to understand that Seiko are making functionality decisions with the bezel and clasp. They can do more stylish solutions, as you've seen, but they're building a high quality watch for real divers.
I disagree judging by the new, very expensive range of watches released at Basel which now have ceramic. I think they were just behind the times on these, and they know "real divers" would probably wear less expensive watches.
@@WatchHobbyist what are you disagreeing about? That Seiko can't do more stylish watches or that this diver is deliberately less stylish than they could make because they focused on functionality & reliability?
Why every brand doesn't come up with its own design instead of copying each other ??
I guess the movements constrain a lot of the process, but there’s plenty of smaller brands pushing innovative designs
You dont like it?????.Sell it to me.
This shows how far you have to go to be "different" (which translates into "quirky") in a segment that is absolutely owned by the Rolex Submariner. GS is certainly great and all but in reality this watch doesn't hold a candle to the Sub.
It's way better than the submariner.
As Bas Absolutely not.
@@ivanoschen It's more accurate, made out of a better material, and more comfortable on the wrist. I also think it looks better. So yes, it is clearly a much better watch.
Better movement, longer power reserve, better lume, what exactly is better about the sub? I own a 11610 and I had an lv. Great watches but this GS is better.
Agreed.
Seiko is a great brand up to $1000.
They're trying too hard, it shows.
Too big. What Japanese man has a wrist big enough for these??? I too have a disdain for Rolex... but for a dive watch, I would much rather have a brand new Omega Seamaster with the ceramic dial and waves or an Omega Planet Ocean (39.5mm)... or even a Sinn U1.
Not single mention about the bezel action. The Rolex is unquestionably the best in the world. Period. Too much money for the GS at AD prices. Defo a better considered purchase second hand.
Not a ceramic bezel. Boy, what are you complaining about? Sell it and go buy your next Rollie
I just assumed it was ceramic and was saving up for one. No longer.
So your main criteria is a ceramic bezel? Chasing after the Submariner, are we?
Your loss. Seriously.
Argument for using AL vs ceramic is BS. It is just cost cutting and nothing more. Same with pins. Even $100 chinese knockoffs have that so no excuse. Same for clasps. If you think they're doing it for the safety of divers well you are just misinformed at best. Not to mention misalignmet issues (Not sure in GS and don't think so but happens in 2k plus Marine masters). For the money thay charge on those higher end watches everything should be perfect or close to it.
Most of the misalignment you find on Seiko watches are from the factories outside Japan on the much cheaper mass produced models.
There are no major watch manufacturers that don't have issues with quality control.
I've personally seen misalignment on Rolex bezels crystals and hands straight from the factory.
Look at watcherfinders video. There's a Rolex with two nines on the dial. How does that escape quality control???
Don't believe me, search WUS forum, there are many examples.
Omega has the same problems. A forum search will reveal more of the same.
Grand Seiko on the other hand, no qc issues I've ever heard of. Just happy owners.
You say that, but how many watches do you know are perfect at this price? I'd wager that every single one of them have units that are sold that don't have the best quality control, regardless if its Rolex or Grand Seiko or Omega, and even at higher price points like Patek. To be frank, if looking for perfect build quality is your top concern, luxury watches aren't it. It's more for the sense of horology, art, and (let's be honest) exclusivity and class that people like about these watches.
No thanks.
Seiko always copy the design of Rolex and Omega. This model is a combination of Submariner and Planet Ocean. Looks at the hands...Not worth for the price.
What you on about look up seiko history on RUclips