Thanks! Seems like something I should have known given my experience working with watches and how prevalent French words are in the horology space. I'll certainly remember them going forward. Rafael
I would venture to speculate that Seiko purposefully did not put together the best characteristics of these two models so that collectors would be forced to go up-market to more expensive Seiko watches that have the diving specifications. Rafael
@@Bespokeunit during the days of the SKX craze maybe in 2016, I decided amongst all the Seiko diver options, the Sumo was for me. Back then it was just mid $400s. I do find the jangley jubilee to be appealing.
Which Sumo model did you go for? I like the look but they're too big for my wrist. Regarding the Jubilee jangle - yes I agree, it's not difficult to get used to but it's one of the characteristics of the SKX that you either love or hate. Can always pick up an aftermarket Jubilee that's better build. Rafael
@@Bespokeunit I got the gen 2 blue dial Sumo. For some reason even though it is big, it works. My wrist ate small. But the lug to lug does not feel long and it tapers down over the wrist. The case shape is amazing. And the gen 2 had huge bezel numbers which I enjoy. I think the size is no different than the SKX or very similar.
The SKX is dive certified. I got my SKX007J on a trade for a Citizen about 5 years ago. The trade was worth about $150. My SKX is now worth 2 to 5 times more now. I do have a 5KX that I love, hand winding and hacking.
Have you found a source online that shows proof about it being dive certified? I've searched many times and only find anecdotes, no concrete evidence. Rafael
These are slightly different from each other. I'm not saying you should do this, but many folks will often have both. It'll come down to which you prefer on the wrist. The turtle case is more comfortable IMO but it's also larger. The 5KX can be a dressier watch.
Hey there, It's really up to you. the 5KX seems to have many more color options, but the SKX is kind of it's own watch and very well recognized. I personally prefer the 5KX as it's more modern and can be purchased with many different dials, straps, bezels, etc... but it will ultimately come down to your personal preferences. Nevertheless, I'm sure you'll be satisfied with either one. Rafael
Hello bro! I'm thinking of buying a Seiko. It's something I've been wanting to own for quite a long time. But I'm finding it hard to pick which one - The 5 series automatic or the Divers skx series. What's harder is both look exactly the same. So it's hard to pick. I read that their only difference is Divers watch is specifically designed for Divers and other water persons while the 5 series is for a more casual or formal wear. But i want to buy one which will have little significance. I'm not familiar with seiko watches and their series. I'd appreciate your suggestion on which i should go for. Thanks!
Hey there, Honestly, I recommend the Seiko 5 Sports over the SKX. There is indeed a difference in water resistance (SKX 200m vs 100m 5 Sports) but you likely won't notice it unless you regularly engage in legit diving and want to take the watch with you. Looking past the WR, the Seiko 5 Sports will be cheaper than an SKX and is also available in many more dial/bezell/strap combinations. If you're looking for the best price, I recommend checking eBay regularly - there are a ton of good sellers that sell the watches in new condition for less than the MSRP. Ultimately, it's going to depend on your needs and tastes, but broadly speaking, I think the Seiko 5 Sports is a better choice for most folks. Hope this helps & let me know if you have more questions. Rafael
@@Bespokeunit Do Skx divers watch have superior movements or quality or collectible value than the 5 series? And which of them would have bigger case/size ? And as for the 5 series - which one would you suggest for best value ?
@@okay19903 The SKX has an older movement, so the Seiko 5 Sports wins out with its more modern/updated movement in this regard. Both cases are exactly the same size and probably 99% the same aesthetically. On value of the Seiko 5 Series, I would just pick whichever model you like the best based on looks. We have more than 10 individual reviews of different Seiko 5 Sports watches here on the channel so I recommend checking those out to see what the different models can look like. You can also search "Seiko 5 Sports" on eBay to get a good idea of what's out there and what you can expect to pay. Lastly, enjoy the process! Take your time researching, see what Seiko has on their website and then put that reference into eBay to see how the prices differ. It's my opinion that the more time you take choosing one watch, the more you'll enjoy wearing it once its finally on your wrist. And again, always here to help out! Rafael
@@colemancalgary5260 I think so, but the printing could easily be a different formulation. In fact, I'd bet it is, even if it looks the same in person.
The SKXs are actually not ISO certified. They could be, but Seiko isn't sending each watch to get certified. This is not to say they couldn't meet the ISO standards, but the certification isn't completed. Rafael
Hi Rafael, how colorful would you discribe the SBSA003 in real life? Different photos seem to show the colors more or less bright and it's really hard to tell. I'm considering buying the SBSA003 / 005 or 023 but really like the pepsi color scheme and would like to add some color to my small collection. I already have a black digital Casio and an Orient panda chronograph on a brown leather strap. So I'm looking to buy my first mechanical watch and the Pepsi would fit in nicely, but I'm worried it could look a bit too childish?
Hey there, Have you checked out the images in my individual review? bespokeunit.com/articles/watches/seiko-5-sports-srpd53-5kx-pepsi/ I think they provide a good idea of what the dial looks like in person. If I had to describe it, it's sort of an iridescent blue with a nice sunray texture. Personally, I think it's quite attractive and elegant - hardly childish. It's a bit more casual given the two-tone bezel, but not childish given the steel case and full steel bracelet. As a first mechanical watch, I think any of the Seiko 5 Sports watches (including this one) are an excellent option. Rafael
@@Bespokeunit oh wow really appreciate your time replying to comments on a year old video! :) to be fair childish was probably the wrong word. At first the colors reminded me of a watch my parents used to buy me as a child. Just trying to think about how easy it is to fit it into my wardrobe compared to the SBSA005, which can be worn to really anything.
@@r0bs1904 Given that the SBSA005 is just black on steel, it will definitely "fit" with more outfits, but to me it's almost too neutral. The Pepsi tones give a bit of personality and playfulness to your wrist. Ultimately, it'll be a personal choice! I recommend either one. Rafael
Mostly because it's discontinued, so online sellers have increased their asking prices. Additionally, over the past few years, second-hand values of watches have exploded, and these followed suit. However, I've noticed the prices of SKX watches slowly receding over the past couple of months. Rafael
The sxk is the most modded, replicated, modified watch ever made. And you can not put in the same ligue with the seiko 5. The dial blue color of the skx is another thing that has Lost all the beauty in the new line. And of course the crown in the new 5 is not screwed.
I'll have to disagree here - I think they're definitely in the same league, especially since most of the modifications used on SKXs work on the Seiko 5 Sports.
So many watch reviewers complaint of 5KX. I think it is just appropriate on it's specs. None of this jokers even go swim at the sea. I live in the Philippines and I go to the beach at least once a month and I swim with it. And guess what? It never disappoints me. It maintains its integrity and waterproof. It still looks just as good. Movement is better. If there is one thing I would change is the glass... I want to mod it into sapphire. But I do not have the tools and skills so I guess I just have to live with it.
Agree with all your points. 5KX are excellent watches especially considering you can buy many of the for less than $200. Probably one of the best choices in the price range. Rafael
Your trade substance for pretty when you chose the 5kX. Like you said the SKX is ISO certification, 200m, screw down crown, beautiful engraved case back with The Great Wave of Kanagawa replaced with a price of glass on the 5kX and even the jingle jangle super comfy bracelet made the skx loved by so many collectors. I’m sorry but how is this newer watch better? Oh yes the movement! So the new one hacks? Why would you ever need hacking on a highly inaccurate movement? Hate to break it to you but both the 4R series and 7S26 aren’t the most accurate movements. So hacking is a moot point. Yes but you can wind the new movement! Really, you feel that having to wind the movement 30 times is faster than shaking the watch 3 times to get the 7S26 movement with the “magic lever” going is easier ? Seriously?! Yes the new 5KX may be prettier but so much has been lost.
Thanks for clarifying! I was inclined to say Spanish at first (it's my second language) but it became clear as I cycled through the days that Spanish wasn't quite right. Rafael
11:30 that's French: Lundi, Mardi, Mercredi, Jeudi, Vendredri, Samedi, Dimanche. Great review by the way.
Thanks! Seems like something I should have known given my experience working with watches and how prevalent French words are in the horology space. I'll certainly remember them going forward.
Rafael
I think what is a shame is they could not combine the two into one watch. Both have things the other could benefit from.
I would venture to speculate that Seiko purposefully did not put together the best characteristics of these two models so that collectors would be forced to go up-market to more expensive Seiko watches that have the diving specifications.
Rafael
@@Bespokeunit during the days of the SKX craze maybe in 2016, I decided amongst all the Seiko diver options, the Sumo was for me. Back then it was just mid $400s. I do find the jangley jubilee to be appealing.
Which Sumo model did you go for? I like the look but they're too big for my wrist. Regarding the Jubilee jangle - yes I agree, it's not difficult to get used to but it's one of the characteristics of the SKX that you either love or hate. Can always pick up an aftermarket Jubilee that's better build.
Rafael
@@Bespokeunit I got the gen 2 blue dial Sumo. For some reason even though it is big, it works. My wrist ate small. But the lug to lug does not feel long and it tapers down over the wrist. The case shape is amazing. And the gen 2 had huge bezel numbers which I enjoy. I think the size is no different than the SKX or very similar.
The SKX is dive certified. I got my SKX007J on a trade for a Citizen about 5 years ago. The trade was worth about $150. My SKX is now worth 2 to 5 times more now. I do have a 5KX that I love, hand winding and hacking.
Have you found a source online that shows proof about it being dive certified? I've searched many times and only find anecdotes, no concrete evidence.
Rafael
Thanks for sharing your expertise.
My pleasure! Rafael
I heard SRPD53 has hand winding also in addition to automatic natural hand movement. Can you please confirm Rafael.
That's correct, the 5KX also have hand-winding function.
Rafael
Hello bro.. i have purchased seiko coutura solar watch.. i liked it lookwise... is it reliable watch ?
I'm not personally familiar with it, but my experience with Seikos in generally has been great, so I'm sure it'll hold up.
Rafael
I'm torn between this 5kx and the turtle PADI pepsi. Any advice?
These are slightly different from each other. I'm not saying you should do this, but many folks will often have both. It'll come down to which you prefer on the wrist. The turtle case is more comfortable IMO but it's also larger. The 5KX can be a dressier watch.
I got the seiko 5 Pepsi today love it!
Great choice! Hope you enjoy it.
Rafael
Looking to buy my first Seiko. I’m stuck on one of these. Which one should I go with?
Hey there,
It's really up to you. the 5KX seems to have many more color options, but the SKX is kind of it's own watch and very well recognized. I personally prefer the 5KX as it's more modern and can be purchased with many different dials, straps, bezels, etc... but it will ultimately come down to your personal preferences. Nevertheless, I'm sure you'll be satisfied with either one.
Rafael
Hello bro! I'm thinking of buying a Seiko. It's something I've been wanting to own for quite a long time.
But I'm finding it hard to pick which one - The 5 series automatic or the Divers skx series. What's harder is both look exactly the same. So it's hard to pick.
I read that their only difference is Divers watch is specifically designed for Divers and other water persons while the 5 series is for a more casual or formal wear.
But i want to buy one which will have little significance.
I'm not familiar with seiko watches and their series.
I'd appreciate your suggestion on which i should go for.
Thanks!
Hey there,
Honestly, I recommend the Seiko 5 Sports over the SKX.
There is indeed a difference in water resistance (SKX 200m vs 100m 5 Sports) but you likely won't notice it unless you regularly engage in legit diving and want to take the watch with you.
Looking past the WR, the Seiko 5 Sports will be cheaper than an SKX and is also available in many more dial/bezell/strap combinations. If you're looking for the best price, I recommend checking eBay regularly - there are a ton of good sellers that sell the watches in new condition for less than the MSRP.
Ultimately, it's going to depend on your needs and tastes, but broadly speaking, I think the Seiko 5 Sports is a better choice for most folks.
Hope this helps & let me know if you have more questions.
Rafael
@@Bespokeunit Do Skx divers watch have superior movements or quality or collectible value than the 5 series?
And which of them would have bigger case/size ?
And as for the 5 series - which one would you suggest for best value ?
@@okay19903 The SKX has an older movement, so the Seiko 5 Sports wins out with its more modern/updated movement in this regard. Both cases are exactly the same size and probably 99% the same aesthetically.
On value of the Seiko 5 Series, I would just pick whichever model you like the best based on looks. We have more than 10 individual reviews of different Seiko 5 Sports watches here on the channel so I recommend checking those out to see what the different models can look like. You can also search "Seiko 5 Sports" on eBay to get a good idea of what's out there and what you can expect to pay.
Lastly, enjoy the process! Take your time researching, see what Seiko has on their website and then put that reference into eBay to see how the prices differ. It's my opinion that the more time you take choosing one watch, the more you'll enjoy wearing it once its finally on your wrist.
And again, always here to help out!
Rafael
@@Bespokeunit thanks man. I appreciate 🙏
Best comparison!
Thanks!
Rafael
Will the bezel fade like the SEiko skx009?
So far, it hasn't, so I'm not sure if it would fade over time. I suppose it's possible if it's made from the same materials.
@@Bespokeunitdoes it appear to be the same material as the skx009?
@@colemancalgary5260 I think so, but the printing could easily be a different formulation. In fact, I'd bet it is, even if it looks the same in person.
Skx is iso certified. Thats the key difference
The SKXs are actually not ISO certified. They could be, but Seiko isn't sending each watch to get certified. This is not to say they couldn't meet the ISO standards, but the certification isn't completed.
Rafael
Hi Rafael, how colorful would you discribe the SBSA003 in real life? Different photos seem to show the colors more or less bright and it's really hard to tell. I'm considering buying the SBSA003 / 005 or 023 but really like the pepsi color scheme and would like to add some color to my small collection. I already have a black digital Casio and an Orient panda chronograph on a brown leather strap. So I'm looking to buy my first mechanical watch and the Pepsi would fit in nicely, but I'm worried it could look a bit too childish?
Hey there,
Have you checked out the images in my individual review? bespokeunit.com/articles/watches/seiko-5-sports-srpd53-5kx-pepsi/ I think they provide a good idea of what the dial looks like in person. If I had to describe it, it's sort of an iridescent blue with a nice sunray texture. Personally, I think it's quite attractive and elegant - hardly childish. It's a bit more casual given the two-tone bezel, but not childish given the steel case and full steel bracelet.
As a first mechanical watch, I think any of the Seiko 5 Sports watches (including this one) are an excellent option.
Rafael
@@Bespokeunit oh wow really appreciate your time replying to comments on a year old video! :) to be fair childish was probably the wrong word. At first the colors reminded me of a watch my parents used to buy me as a child. Just trying to think about how easy it is to fit it into my wardrobe compared to the SBSA005, which can be worn to really anything.
@@r0bs1904 Given that the SBSA005 is just black on steel, it will definitely "fit" with more outfits, but to me it's almost too neutral. The Pepsi tones give a bit of personality and playfulness to your wrist. Ultimately, it'll be a personal choice! I recommend either one.
Rafael
I have the SKX009 and I’m wondering why has the value skyrocketed recently?
Mostly because it's discontinued, so online sellers have increased their asking prices. Additionally, over the past few years, second-hand values of watches have exploded, and these followed suit. However, I've noticed the prices of SKX watches slowly receding over the past couple of months.
Rafael
I'm picking mine up tomorrow lol
I'm assuming you're talking about the 5KX? Let us know how you like it!
Rafael
The sxk is the most modded, replicated, modified watch ever made. And you can not put in the same ligue with the seiko 5. The dial blue color of the skx is another thing that has Lost all the beauty in the new line. And of course the crown in the new 5 is not screwed.
I'll have to disagree here - I think they're definitely in the same league, especially since most of the modifications used on SKXs work on the Seiko 5 Sports.
@@Bespokeunit bro, skx is skx. Seiko 5 is a toy
Wa good I need
They could've kept the solid caseback and budget the savings toward giving us a screwdown crown.
My guess is that Seiko wanted to push collectors looking for a more serious dive watch upmarket.
Rafael
So many watch reviewers complaint of 5KX. I think it is just appropriate on it's specs. None of this jokers even go swim at the sea. I live in the Philippines and I go to the beach at least once a month and I swim with it. And guess what? It never disappoints me. It maintains its integrity and waterproof. It still looks just as good. Movement is better. If there is one thing I would change is the glass... I want to mod it into sapphire. But I do not have the tools and skills so I guess I just have to live with it.
Agree with all your points. 5KX are excellent watches especially considering you can buy many of the for less than $200. Probably one of the best choices in the price range.
Rafael
Prefer the 009 all day..bcos they both look similar go with the 009🤷♂️..tougher watch..no brainer
It comes down to personal preference. I'd choose the 5KX simply because of the newer movement, even considering the reduced water resistance.
Rafael
Your trade substance for pretty when you chose the 5kX. Like you said the SKX is ISO certification, 200m, screw down crown, beautiful engraved case back with The Great Wave of Kanagawa replaced with a price of glass on the 5kX and even the jingle jangle super comfy bracelet made the skx loved by so many collectors. I’m sorry but how is this newer watch better? Oh yes the movement! So the new one hacks? Why would you ever need hacking on a highly inaccurate movement? Hate to break it to you but both the 4R series and 7S26 aren’t the most accurate movements. So hacking is a moot point. Yes but you can wind the new movement! Really, you feel that having to wind the movement 30 times is faster than shaking the watch 3 times to get the 7S26 movement with the “magic lever” going is easier ? Seriously?! Yes the new 5KX may be prettier but so much has been lost.
I hate that 5 on dial
I actually enjoy the look of it! Adds a touch of modernity to the face of the watch.
Rafael
The second language is French
Thanks for clarifying! I was inclined to say Spanish at first (it's my second language) but it became clear as I cycled through the days that Spanish wasn't quite right.
Rafael
I have a 5KX. I verify it is French, being Canadian where French language is a mandatory subject in school.
In Thailand price of skx second hand can buy 5 sport 😂
Yeah... SKX prices have exploded since they were discontinued.
Rafael
I liaek
Me too!
Completely unnecessary to view the Seiko movement. 😂
I disagree! They did a nice job finishing it, even it if's a pretty standard movement.
Rafael
Its an ugly piece of hardware.
On of the ugliest, industrial looking movements.
The skx is a different animal.. The 5KX is like a toy lol
They are different but I wouldn't go as far as call the 5KX a toy.