I bought the exact same watch about 3 months ago as my first really good watch. Love this thing. Size is perfect for me and the quality fits to the price. I am from Germany and it is really cool to wear something made in Germany. Also I Love that only people who are in to watches know what are you wearing. Hope this watch will bring a lot of joy in the years to come.
This was my first real watch that I got in 2013. It's still my daily after so many years. To this day it still gets random compliments in the office or at a store. Love the looks and quality the brand goes for. After owning this I also bought a 356 and u50. I'm incredibly happy with those too
556i is my first and only "serious" watch, first of the collection to come, I love it so much, summer, winter, t-shirt, leather jacket, gym workout, office work, strap monster, it can do EVERYTHING ! Maybe it is the perfect one watch collection after all....
@@ChaPPie01 it was one year ago, loved the 556 but found it too small after a while, and non tegimented so scratches will add up over time, also didnt like the Sellita. Now I have the 40mm, tegimented and ETA 856, much better ! I do advise to consider it
@@ChaPPie01 When Sinn had the choice (pre 2011), they chose ETA and not sellita. When they didnt have access to ETA anymore (post 2012) they were forced to use sellita... that is the basic fact for my preference, but i know sellitas are not bad movements
You can tell Teddy is a real watch guy. When speaking, he moves right through the dialogue without hesitation, speaking factually, not like the few others I've watched (no pun intended). I'm glad to see someone young, has made a success of his passion. I just bought a blue dial Hamilton Jazzmaster, something I would have never purchased before I accidently ran across his videos. He's gotten me hooked on watches. Sadly, there are so many choices and cool watches. Where does one begin......
To me the Sinn 856I is one of the best candidates in the world of mechanical watches for being a man's ownly watch. It's extremely versatile, sturdy and flawless in its design - the epitome of a no-nonse watch and arguably already a modern classic. I like to call it the thinking man's Explorer. In short: It's a perfect choice for a man of taste like you, Teddy.
This exact same version of the 556 was one of my first ever "luxury" watches. Still love it to death for exactly the same reasons you mentioned in your video! That said I really have to give you my biggest respect for the EXTREMELY high quality you deliver on your YT channel - your presentation is top notch! Your videography even makes the Watchfinder guys turn their heads. Keep it up, Mr. Baldassarre!
I am absolutely in love with my 556i. I love how it looks, how it feels, it's practical intention. Even the purchase in their factory store was a nice experience. Now I live far from my hometown, which is near by Frankfurt, so it is like a little piece of home on my wrist every day. Just the perfect watch for me. Thank you for your videos, really enjoying them!
Finally got this watch over two years after watching your video on it, which introduced me to it. I got the red seconds edition. My first luxury watch. Thrilled with my purchase. Thanks for the tip!
Teddy, after watching this video I found the perfect watch! I bought the Sinn on a black leather strap and to me it is the perfect watch. It is the perfect size, light, and keeps time like a quarts watch. The Sinn has not left my wrist since I got it. I wonder now, what to do with my other watches. Lol The Sinn could be a one watch for me. I think you and Courtney makes some of the best video's on you tube and I hope you all keep doing them.
Two-time Sinner here: I own a 556a and a 104 both great watches with the 556a being a little more versatile. Both wear very comfortable on the wrist. But I must admit, the i-dial is a little less toolish than the a-dial. Great video and an in-depth review of the 556i.
Thank you for putting Sinn (Sense) into our lives! Another great review, Teddy! I love Sinn‘s beautifully designed, simple and clear watch faces in classic Bauhaus design. Personally, I have the Sinn U1 dive watch and absolutely love it! Functionality rules, even in the naming convention. U1, U1S, U1 SDR. 556i RS. The 556i is so elegant and clear; always reminds me of the faces of public clocks at airports and railway stations. Will you do more brands like Dornblüth also?
I'm on a list at two ADs for the Explorer and I'm getting impatient. If I can't get one soon, I am tempted to get this Sinn. Seems to tick a lot of boxes that the Explorer does (minus the name) for a lot less. I agree the clasp with a diver's extension is a major fail and at the expense of being clunky. Yes, you can dive with it at 200M, but it's not a diver with a rotating bezel, so no need for the extension clasp. Overall though I think it looks great and actually slightly better size (and lug to lug) than the Explorer for my wrist. +1 spd ...Excellent!
I love Sinn. Had one delivered to me in September, a U2 SDR full Tegiment., on a tegimented bracelet. Love the size, the heft (it’s a BIG boi!), the legibility, the GMT function, the scratch resistance, the accuracy. I have around 40 watches including a load of Seiko divers of 7548, 6309 and SKX variants, and a IWC Pilot Chrono (ref 3706), but the Sinn has not been off my wrist since it was delivered to me. A stunning watch.
Great vid! I’m not convinced though that the 556I is the flagship of the family. The giveaway is the mat black on the hands match the dial of the 556A. They didn’t even bother to gloss them up for the 556I. Also, the fact that Sinn also didn’t bother differentiating the 12:00 marker for night reading points again to the 556A as original design. Not to mention the clear reference to their cockpit clocks for unbeatable quick legibility, again on the 556A. I was also drawn initially to the austere dial of the I but in the end the true nature of the watch won me over.
Hi Teddy, I fully agree with everything you say about the Sinn 556. Personally, though, I prefer (and have bought, 2 years ago, then still with the ETA 2824-2 movement, for 1020 Euro) the 556 A variant, with the bracelet. The dial with the 4 large arabic numerals ist just more "special" and even more legible IMO.
My one collection watch: - 38mm case - 44ish mm lug to lug - 200m WR - Black dial - no date - bracelet without diving extension but with micro adjust, aka halios style. - manual winding. - AR inner coating only - 20mm lug width
Very nice!!! My wrist is also 7.5". My newest watch is a Seiko SRPE67 @ 40mm. This is really good since it's only a couple of weeks old, and it's keeping my quite happy as I debate between a DS/DK30 or 556i or 556a!!! ❤
Yes I love my 104 it's the most accurate watch in my collection and if I had to have just one it would be a close call between this and my Tudor black bay heritage.
This is a great watch. Im in the market for this or the Damasko DS30. Re the case, I think from what I've heard the Damasko will have the edge. However, this is the more handsome watch and can be dressed up or down, better. I love the fact that you can see the movement and the dial is gorgeous, with perfect execution of the date window. I love it. I have one qualm, I have a 7.5 inch wrist, it may be too small. For me this has to be a great one watch collection. Finally, Teddy, your photography is amazing, the macro shots and the lighting are just sublime. Well done!
Sinn to watches is what Volkswagen is to cars, well put together, desirable & does it all without shouting and flashing about it. Love em. So boringly epic.
Two brands that I regret not buying early: Sinn and B&R. However, with Sinn adjusted for inflation I supposed it holds near to its price points of time gone by.
For what it’s worth. I have had my U1 blue with the same AR coating for well over a year. I wear it everyday and I work outside with my hands in the telecommunications industry in conditions and places most people couldn’t and I have yet to scratch the coating at all. It’s a great plus for me to have it on there as I don’t have to point the watch directly at my eye in weird lighting.
I’m a huge Sinn fanboy so I really enjoyed this. I haves 104, 856, U1, and I think a 356 is next. I love these watches because there’s no nonsense. There was a great interview with their CEO a few years ago where he was asked why they don’t advertise more and he said they prefer to focus on making watches. I hadn’t chance to visit the factory in Frankfurt a couple of years ago and that was great too. (Thank you for pronouncing Sinn correctly, too!)
I decided about this time last year that I needed to quit playing around with lesser watches so I could have quantitatively more, and get something of more substance. After researching for months, nothing ticked all the boxes like the Sinn 556I: German (like my heritage), robust yet svelte, subtle yet visually stunning and nondescript but "legit"- a do-it-all watch for the modern sporting professional. So I sold two SKXs and a micro brand and pulled the trigger on mine last April. the And the chronometer grade, Sinn regulated SW200 is a runner- day to day I don't gain or lose more than a second, which means after three weeks since the last time I hacked it to nuclear time, it is maybe a half second down. I love to learn and read about watches, but I can't really envision ever needing to move on to something else, especially as a daily.
About five years ago I drove to the Sinn HQ in Frankfurt absolutely sure to get the 556i. And as I tried it on for the first time and really loved it, my eyes fell on another watch I hadn‘t noticed before: the 104 St Sa I - and the rest is history. 😄
I just got my Sinn 556i after watching many TB videos and research AND waiting half a year for it to be in stock! I love it so far. Thanks Teddy for introducing me to this hobby (addiction) and showing off the Sinn. 😁
Very enjoyable review. I too have a 556I. It is my only mechanical watch. I have it on the Sinn rubber strap. The clasp is different to the one shown in the video. It opens by pinching pins on the side. I wear it nearly all the time, I have a G-Shock for other uses. Mine runs about 5 seconds per day slow, which is no problem. I've had it two years so it had the ETA movement. I love it. Great size as I have smallish wrists.
Great review. I've had the 556i for about a year and a half now, and definitely one of my favorite watches. The watch has such a unique character/ridiculous versatility that really doesn't come across until you have it on your wrist, and IMO, the only watch that comes close to competing is an OP36. I'd honestly argue that the Sinn still edges it out as an everyday piece for most watch enthusiasts as it's a lot easier to feel comfortable "beating up" the Sinn, it's got a much simplier dial, and it doesn't have the same "Rolex" component that I feel turns a lot of enthusiasts off of getting a Rolex (as you mentioned). That said, I feel like there are 2 trivial improvements (one you mentioned) that would make the watch infinitely better: 1) take the hands/indices that are used in literally every other 556i (the IB, the anthracite anniversary, the Korean LE, the MOPs...). Some people may argue there's a sportiness to the lume-only; I argue it reduces versatility, longevity (patina without some steel on the hands will probably just look ugly), and cheapens the watch. 2) Like you mentioned, the H-link clasp sucks. The links are great, the design is fitting, but the clasp itself is pretty rattle-y, doesn't feel good to open/close, and after comparing the trigger mechanism to the fine link, it's a weird/incongruous that they didn't have something a little better. My $300 Seiko SARB has a better clasp. All of these are pretty small gripes and I still feel, without a doubt, this is a phenomenal watch whose value proposition is incredibly difficult to beat, but these are pretty small things to fix IMO.
Nice video Teddy! The Sinn 556 is an awesome watch! By the way I really would be interested to see an updated video about the state of your actual watch collection
Great selection Teddy, for all the reasons that you stated. I, too, am a huge Sinn fan with the 556i, the 104 & the U1 SE in my collection. I’m a huge admirer of German watches, with several other brands in my boxes including Damasko, Laco, Stowa and even a Junkers. I am eyeing Sinn’s new U50 ... what a great re-size for the classic U1.
No Sinns yet, though I'd love to have one eventually. My "one watch collection" watch is a Hamilton pilot day/date "Cooper." I love the symmetry of a 12 o'clock day and 6 o'clock date, and the blingy indices make it easy to dress up or down. It's by far the most interesting flieger that I've seen. It was my only watch for a couple years, and even now that I've added a few more, I wear it far more often than the others. It's perfect.
Awesome!!! That's a great looking watch!! Both are, actually!! 👍 I'm right now considering a 556 or a Damasko DS/DK 30. Damasko's tech, crown system, submarine case, etc,,, keep drawing me in. But; there is just something about the Sinn 556!
I was torn between a Sinn 556i, and a Damasko DS30. It was a tough decision to make, but in the end I went with the DS30 because of the price, case thickness, and the hardened steel case.
I have the black mother of pearl face 566 and love it. Just everything I need a little bit more with the way the mother of pearl reacts to the sun. Fantastic watch
Lovely photography that really does the watch justice! I also own this watch and agree it’s an excellent piece. The only weak point as you point out is the slightly awkward clasp...
I’m lucky enough to own some incredible watches. Day Dates, Daytona, BLNR, Reverso.... but if I had to build my dream ‘cheap’ (which by no means poor quality) collection, the Mido Ocean Star Tribute and Sinn 556 are 100% my picks.
You probably won't see this since i watched it hours after you published it, but I gave some thought to your question. Something fun to think about the three one watch options. Lets go luxury first and since most people would say the 214270, i'd have to agree, but I'll say the Seamaster 300 41mm in black dial just to be a bit of a contrarian. For the mid range one I would say pick any of the Oris Big Crown Pointer Date. That way you could have a few color and material options to choose from. For the lower end I think you need to go with a Hamilton Khaki Field so again, you would have a number of options of color and size to pick from. But for sure the Sinn 556i would make me happy . Great episode Teddy
I have both Damasko ds30 on a strap and Sinn 556i on a bracelet. Love them both, your right about the up tech of Damasko, but as far as price, if you factor in what Damasko wants for their matching bracelet, the Damasko will run you more.
I have the 55th anniversary version of 556i in gray dial color for 3 months now. It was perfect. Mine runs within an average of 2 seconds after continuous use for 2 weeks. It's also water-resistant to 200 meters. The best part of 556i is the bracelet. The build and quality were even better than my Omega Seamaster's bracelet.
My one watch which i did choose is the 556i RS about six months ago and i am now satisfied and very glad i did because it fills every scenario out there and no need or desire to wear anything else at all. Just like the old days when at school and you had only one watch till it broke or something..
A friend of mine took a picture of the 556i on someone else´s wrist and asked me what it was. I found out and got back to him with the comment "Nobody needs more watch than this." A year later I bought it myself and up until now I´m more than happy with the piece.
I love Sinn, I own 3 (856 UTC, 103 St, and EZM 13), but, wow, have the prices gone up! The 556 is a solid value at about $1K but at $1.5K? BTW, fantastic photography, Teddy!
Love my 556 A. I have a 7 1/2 inch wrist and the 556 still works great. Doesn't look too small. I actually sold my Rolex Explorer I 39mm MK 1 dial because I always would reach for the 556 instead. Understated and possibly the best everyday watch...at least for me. I considered the 856 but glad I chose the 556. Another great review, Teddy. PS: Consistently running at +3 a day out of the box.
Good to hear. I’m really tempted with this watch, but with a 7.5 inch wrist, I thought it too small, but you seem to think it’s ok. I really need to try this on, then. Thanks for the info.
Sorry for the late question. Why did you sell the explorer? I feel like it’s better than the 556 is it not? What made you reach for the sinn over the rolex? Thanks!
@@ATLdonkeh Good question. I’m sure I’ll get roasted for saying this but I don’t think the Explorer is “better” than the Sinn, just as I don’t think a Patek Nautilus is better than an Rolex Sub. But that’s not why I sold the explorer. I already have an Oyster Perpetual black dial. The EX1 was really redundant to that as well. I’d say if someone wants the explorer and can comfortably afford it…get it. It’s a great watch. That said, the Sinn will get the job done just as well.
Oh i understand! That makes sense 100% it’s a tough decision for me, on the one hand i feel like the rolex is the safe choice as in, the holy grail one and only watch type deal but on the other hand the 556 is just charming in a way, it’s going to be a head scratcher that’s for sure. Thanks!
Perfect timing Teddy, I've been saving up for a while and plan on getting one by the end of the year. I've been doing research for months and there's nothing quite like it, you know when a watch just speaks to you? I especially enjoy your reviews because we have similar build and wrist size.
Or terrible timing if like me you’re about to start looking for one on the preowned market and this video has alerted more people to these great watches. Damnit 😣
@@TazioN I've looked at pre-owned but the few I could find seem to be too close to full price, at that point I'd rather buy it new with discount from an AD.
I have the 556IA great watch used it almost every day for the last 10 years.. a companion watch. I also have a 356 which is brilliant but too busy from my eyes. I recommend Sinn it’s a solid watch and looks good on the bracelet
13:06 "you are paying a premium for this bracelet" I'm a big Sinn fanboi but even I do a spit-take when I see the price of their branded bracelets/silicone straps.
Yeah, you're not wrong. I bought my 556I with the silicone strap and it was a lot more money. However, after a couple of years on daily wearing the strap and clasp are in perfect condition. It also fits perfectly which matters to me as I would have replaced a leather strap with a silicone, had I bought the cheaper leather equipped version and I doubt I could have done better. So all in all I don't regret the extra spent.
Sinn gets a tremendous following, but I have to say that for me, its understated is perhaps just a little too understated. At their old pricing levels, maybe. Where it is now hanging out where Longines and Oris live (or I'll be honest my own favourite - Certina which is quite a bit cheaper). It's not the easiest place to be.
Great review of Sinn 556. Discovered the brand in 2017 spring with 856 b uhr teg on bracelet. Really great watches and durable as any one would need. Technology and style an durability got me to the U 50 T. Lov the brand and what it represents to the watch customer. My dress watch is a Ball Marvellite ll with blue tritium. Lov the lume. Thank you for your videos. Stay healthy and safe.
Great watch, superb construction, it’s a tank of a watch, I been more interested in pilot watches recently and I acquired an Alpina Startimer with indexes instead of numerals like your Sinn . Nice video, keep the good work my friend!
After collecting/ being obsessed watches for for a little over 10 years, my list is the following: Less than $100: G-Shock DW5600-BB Less than $500: Hamilton Khaki King Less than $4000: Tudor Black Bay Steel I miss my Hamilton Khaki King and G-Shock but I just don't see myself wearing them as much now that I have my Tudor BB steel. The sweet spot is 10mm but the Tudor wears so well because of its tapered lugs. Sometimes I forget I'm wearing it when I'm sleeping. (Yes I put on/sometimes switch watches before bed.)
I wear 556i daily for 7.5 years. Watch is great. It is so versetaile and trustworthy. 11 mm 200 wr shock resistant antimagnetic simple 38,5 allrounder. I feel obliged to warn people who are interested in investing money in 556i 1. You will have to remove ar on the outside. I had to do it after one year of heavy wear and tear. 2. Watch has very short lugs. Bracelet may look strange on larger wrists, first links may stand out. Consider fine bracelet but i dont have any experience whith it. 3. You may be between micro adjustments 4. Sapphire smudges easly due to glossy dial. 5. Index on 3 o'clock is shorter so it is not entirely symetric 6. Lume is snow white for estetics thou not very bright 7. Watch is completly under the radar so only watch geeks notice it 8. Was a great bang for buck 8 years ago but not enymore. At this pricepoint I would save for omega or smthg. So much money and not even ETA. C'mon It is way too much. I paid less than 900 dollars whith bracelet. Probably they cannot keep up whith demand so they do this.
For me it's a tossup between between Sinn 556A and Damasko DS-30. I normally prefer indexes, but Sinn's arabic dials are really something special. For under $1k one watch collection, I'd pick my Seiko SARB033. It's a classic for a reason. Gets more wrist time than the whole rest of my collection.
I have grown to like the idea of a double AR coating. I really love a beautiful dial and with 2x AR I can easily read the time and stare into the dial without a glare. Longines does this too for example and their legibility is breathtaking at times. This review allowed me to see the difference between the 556i and 556a. The inky black dial. The inky black with the coarse, matte black on the hands creates some depth to the piece. The 556A has the matte black throughout and lacks that depth. Thanks for sharing that data because I couldn't tell on their website if it had other differences besides the indexes. Cheers!
Great piece and great review, Teddy! This is a tremendous value piece in my opinion and the Sinn watch I keep coming back to as the Sinn I'd own. One watch: Affordable under $1000 - Tissot Powermatic 80 $1000 - $3000 - probably this Sinn 556i or a Hamilton Intramatic Chrono $3000+ - Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean or maybe Seamaster 300 alternatively - The Seamaster truly covers every scenario from sea to field to Tuxedo in my opinion.
Sinn gained its fame through the cockpit clocks used in many Airbus Helicopters and small aircraft. The first German Skylab astronaut had a Sinn 140 ST.
Thanks, Teddy, nice video. 856 non UTC has been on my radar for a while. Higher price but more technical features. 556 is my brother's choice, but it doesn't look like either one of us can afford one right now. Nice to dream, though .
I had this watch and loved it but ended up getting an 836 instead. I have a bit over 18.5cm (7 1/2") flattish (6.5cm across) wrist and am kind of a tall, 100kg dude and the 556 looked small on me. So, those on the fence about the 556 could check out the 836 - it's also a bit "fancier" and even more versatile. People often mention it might wear big because of the narrowish bezel, but it doesn't, in my opinion, though it IS a bit hefty if you wear it on the bracelet. ALSO, regarding the diver's extension on the H-link - it's awesome if you have wider hands as it makes it way easier to put on the watch! Haven't seen any reviewer mention this before. Anyway, 556 or 836, can't go wrong.
One great thing about Sinn is that no matter if you get a 104 or a Frankfurt am Main, the quality is the same. Sure there are feature differences, complications or water resistance, but the quality is the same. Bang for buck they're probably one of the best watches for the money, resale is decent, almost to the point of buying new and there is only one AD for the US and Canada. Thankfully they are reputable. I have a U1 on order which should come to next month. And did put the order in before the price hike.
Hello Teddy, very nice video. Sinn‘s are stunner for the price point! Love my 903 from 1991 with a Lemania movement. I‘m sure some other Sinns will follow... Keep on making such great content! Thx! Nice weekend, greetings from Germany, Sascha.
My brother gave me his 556i because he got fed up with it after it broke twice in a short period. The last watchmaker who worked on it sadly left a tiny smudge inside the crystal, but he also regulated it to the point where it keeps within 2 seconds per day, so I don't dare pull out the movement to clean it.
Great review! I have a 556I and I only have 4 complaints about it. I wish the hands were just a touch bigger, I wish the date was at 6 or nonexistent, The lume isn't great, and the clasp does feel cheap. It really is a great watch though. Mine is running at less than 1 second fast per day. I have the Sellita movement as well. I've been considering selling it but I'm afraid I'd regret it. I know it's a much lower tier but I've been wearing my Helm Vanuatu daily for months. I absolutely love the Vanuatu. If the Helm had the movement from my Sinn it would be pure perfection IMO.
I prefer the 556A to the 556I but thats purely a fielder's choice decision. Great watch for the price. Its basically a watersports watch with more robustness than an Aqua Terra, but with a bit more pilot inspired design to it. Yeah the Sellita is not an Omega movement but for $3,000 less one would not expect it to be. Damasko has some good alternatives especially with their similar case hardening. Stowa is a strong German price point too. But Sinn is probably more well known than both of those and with that may carry a bit more street cred due to the other tools watches in the lineup Sinn sells which are tour de forces in the tech and robustness department. Heard of a few quality control issues with Sinn lately -- namely the accuracy of the movements being quite spotty compared to quoted spec -- but if you dont have to send it back for recalibration I think the 556 line is still Sinn's best value model of the entire brand -- which is good because its probably also their best selling and well-known. Its so well known Bell & Ross and many others have more or less copied it for years.
I just bought one these (outstanding). FYI: Looks like the newer models reduced the weight of the date font, so it is less bold and stays out of the way. An improvement.
I bought the 856 non utc which is the tegimented steel version of the 556a. It’s a little more but with other great Sinn tech. Was able to visit and purchase at Sinn factory in Frankfurt. For those who want a more rugged, less polished version of the 556, the 856 is worth a look. Overall couldn’t agree more about Teddys comparison of the 556 to other brands. High quality without the bling
The one thing that holds me back from wholly embracing this particular model is the lack of any differentiated indices at the 12 o'clock mark. That's a major oversight with consideration to the immediacy of legibility at a quick glance of the dial.
Bucket list: Everyday watch: Hamilton Khaki Automatic (which I have). Mid-level watch: Seiko Presage Prestige Line Arita Porcelain Dial Limited Edition. High end/money is no object watch: A. Lange & Sohne 1815 in white gold, with silver dial, blue hands, and Arabic numbers.
Sinn has such a great reputation. I don't think I've seen anybody who has been overly critical of them. And good luck getting a Damasko. They're just about impossible to find.
You’re the most knowledgeable bulbasaur I’ve ever seen
I see what you did there
Lmao
Respect please for Teddy Badass
@Axel Cullen it an obvious scam here both of these idiot are in on it.
Hi! This is Teddy Bulbasaur..😂
I bought the exact same watch about 3 months ago as my first really good watch. Love this thing. Size is perfect for me and the quality fits to the price. I am from Germany and it is really cool to wear something made in Germany. Also I Love that only people who are in to watches know what are you wearing. Hope this watch will bring a lot of joy in the years to come.
I appreciate what you said about buying local. Anything to minimize shipping.
Looks like you guys have lots of good local-made watches in Germany.
How is it? Do you still have it?
@@kyle_vr I still have it and will never sell it. Absolute beautiful and cool watch in a great size. Have had no problems so far.
This was my first real watch that I got in 2013. It's still my daily after so many years. To this day it still gets random compliments in the office or at a store. Love the looks and quality the brand goes for. After owning this I also bought a 356 and u50. I'm incredibly happy with those too
How is it? Do you still have it?
556i is my first and only "serious" watch, first of the collection to come, I love it so much, summer, winter, t-shirt, leather jacket, gym workout, office work, strap monster, it can do EVERYTHING ! Maybe it is the perfect one watch collection after all....
Saving for first luxury watch 👌almost there can't wait to order!
@@ChaPPie01 it was one year ago, loved the 556 but found it too small after a while, and non tegimented so scratches will add up over time, also didnt like the Sellita. Now I have the 40mm, tegimented and ETA 856, much better ! I do advise to consider it
@@MartinS-nq2bm why don't like sellita? I mean this one upgraded sellita🤔
@@MartinS-nq2bm have also eye on it christopher ward sealander c63 🤔
@@ChaPPie01 When Sinn had the choice (pre 2011), they chose ETA and not sellita. When they didnt have access to ETA anymore (post 2012) they were forced to use sellita... that is the basic fact for my preference, but i know sellitas are not bad movements
You can tell Teddy is a real watch guy. When speaking, he moves right through the dialogue without hesitation, speaking factually, not like the few others I've watched (no pun intended). I'm glad to see someone young, has made a success of his passion. I just bought a blue dial Hamilton Jazzmaster, something I would have never purchased before I accidently ran across his videos. He's gotten me hooked on watches. Sadly, there are so many choices and cool watches. Where does one begin......
Great comment. Agreed.
To me the Sinn 856I is one of the best candidates in the world of mechanical watches for being a man's ownly watch. It's extremely versatile, sturdy and flawless in its design - the epitome of a no-nonse watch and arguably already a modern classic. I like to call it the thinking man's Explorer. In short: It's a perfect choice for a man of taste like you, Teddy.
Owner of 856i for 2 months now. Really is the best everyday watch I’ve owned.
As a 10 month owner of a 556, I welcome you to the club. Great video, Teddy.
This exact same version of the 556 was one of my first ever "luxury" watches. Still love it to death for exactly the same reasons you mentioned in your video! That said I really have to give you my biggest respect for the EXTREMELY high quality you deliver on your YT channel - your presentation is top notch! Your videography even makes the Watchfinder guys turn their heads. Keep it up, Mr. Baldassarre!
I am absolutely in love with my 556i. I love how it looks, how it feels, it's practical intention. Even the purchase in their factory store was a nice experience. Now I live far from my hometown, which is near by Frankfurt, so it is like a little piece of home on my wrist every day. Just the perfect watch for me.
Thank you for your videos, really enjoying them!
Those macro shots are insanely good Teddy, thanks for this video.
Finally got this watch over two years after watching your video on it, which introduced me to it. I got the red seconds edition. My first luxury watch. Thrilled with my purchase. Thanks for the tip!
3 Years on, this video still holds up for this watch!! My favorite with non-arabic markers, a red second hand and black leather strap!!!!!
Have mine in this exact spec and I wear it everyday. Bought it the year I got married and don’t think I’ll ever get rid of it!
Christopher Ingnacio the watch or your wife?
Teddy, after watching this video I found the perfect watch! I bought the Sinn on a black leather strap and to me it is the perfect watch. It is the perfect size, light, and keeps time like a quarts watch. The Sinn has not left my wrist since I got it. I wonder now, what to do with my other watches. Lol The Sinn could be a one watch for me. I think you and Courtney makes some of the best video's on you tube and I hope you all keep doing them.
About to get one of these! Was undecided for a while between this and a Muhle Glashutte 29er...but a few days ago decided to plump for a Sinn.
Been wearing mine for 4 days now and it is running + - 0 seconds. Incredible really! Can’t speak for all of them but this one is spot on.
Mine is one half second off per WEEK!
Mine is running +8 seconds a day since day one.
Two-time Sinner here: I own a 556a and a 104 both great watches with the 556a being a little more versatile. Both wear very comfortable on the wrist. But I must admit, the i-dial is a little less toolish than the a-dial. Great video and an in-depth review of the 556i.
Thank you for putting Sinn (Sense) into our lives! Another great review, Teddy!
I love Sinn‘s beautifully designed, simple and clear watch faces in classic Bauhaus design.
Personally, I have the Sinn U1 dive watch and absolutely love it! Functionality rules, even in the naming convention. U1, U1S, U1 SDR. 556i RS.
The 556i is so elegant and clear; always reminds me of the faces of public clocks at airports and railway stations.
Will you do more brands like Dornblüth also?
Possibly a candidate for the ‘one watch’ watch collection? Great video work and review as always Teddy!
I'm on a list at two ADs for the Explorer and I'm getting impatient. If I can't get one soon, I am tempted to get this Sinn. Seems to tick a lot of boxes that the Explorer does (minus the name) for a lot less. I agree the clasp with a diver's extension is a major fail and at the expense of being clunky. Yes, you can dive with it at 200M, but it's not a diver with a rotating bezel, so no need for the extension clasp. Overall though I think it looks great and actually slightly better size (and lug to lug) than the Explorer for my wrist. +1 spd ...Excellent!
I love Sinn. Had one delivered to me in September, a U2 SDR full Tegiment., on a tegimented bracelet. Love the size, the heft (it’s a BIG boi!), the legibility, the GMT function, the scratch resistance, the accuracy. I have around 40 watches including a load of Seiko divers of 7548, 6309 and SKX variants, and a IWC Pilot Chrono (ref 3706), but the Sinn has not been off my wrist since it was delivered to me. A stunning watch.
Got my 556i Rs on friday. Love it's simplicity. Cold and sharp feeling, surgical almost. Going to be a solid foundation for my budding collection
Great vid! I’m not convinced though that the 556I is the flagship of the family. The giveaway is the mat black on the hands match the dial of the 556A. They didn’t even bother to gloss them up for the 556I. Also, the fact that Sinn also didn’t bother differentiating the 12:00 marker for night reading points again to the 556A as original design. Not to mention the clear reference to their cockpit clocks for unbeatable quick legibility, again on the 556A. I was also drawn initially to the austere dial of the I but in the end the true nature of the watch won me over.
Hi Teddy, I fully agree with everything you say about the Sinn 556. Personally, though, I prefer (and have bought, 2 years ago, then still with the ETA 2824-2 movement, for 1020 Euro) the 556 A variant, with the bracelet. The dial with the 4 large arabic numerals ist just more "special" and even more legible IMO.
I love this Sinn, Ball, Lorier... category. Unbeatable in terms of price/value you get.
@@thegeoff9253 pricewise Sinn and Ball are in the same category... Lorier is not so much but still a 100% independent brand/business. That's how.
My one collection watch:
- 38mm case
- 44ish mm lug to lug
- 200m WR
- Black dial
- no date
- bracelet without diving extension but with micro adjust, aka halios style.
- manual winding.
- AR inner coating only
- 20mm lug width
I have a 7.5 inch wrist and own the Sinn 556i RS (red seconds). It wears great and is very versatile as you mentioned :)
Very nice!!! My wrist is also 7.5". My newest watch is a Seiko SRPE67 @ 40mm. This is really good since it's only a couple of weeks old, and it's keeping my quite happy as I debate between a DS/DK30 or 556i or 556a!!! ❤
I love my Sinn 104. Can't really go wrong with a Sinn. They're great watches.
Lot of markup on these, good grief! There are a lot better, more accurate,offerings on the market before parting with that kind of money
Yes I love my 104 it's the most accurate watch in my collection and if I had to have just one it would be a close call between this and my Tudor black bay heritage.
I bought the 104 a.b.e., great tool watch. I like the simplicity of the 556. Just might add it the collection.
Very true, the Sinn is a solid brand, I have yet to see watch from them that isn't a 10/10. My first was a U1 and the journey goes on.
@@kendesjarlais7577 now let me guess... Seiko, or some microbrand packing NH35 movements?
This is a great watch. Im in the market for this or the Damasko DS30. Re the case, I think from what I've heard the Damasko will have the edge. However, this is the more handsome watch and can be dressed up or down, better. I love the fact that you can see the movement and the dial is gorgeous, with perfect execution of the date window. I love it. I have one qualm, I have a 7.5 inch wrist, it may be too small. For me this has to be a great one watch collection. Finally, Teddy, your photography is amazing, the macro shots and the lighting are just sublime. Well done!
Sinn to watches is what Volkswagen is to cars, well put together, desirable & does it all without shouting and flashing about it. Love em. So boringly epic.
Just bought one last week. Love it! The glossy dial looks amazing. Personally I prefer the watch on a black leather strap with white accent
Two brands that I regret not buying early: Sinn and B&R. However, with Sinn adjusted for inflation I supposed it holds near to its price points of time gone by.
For what it’s worth. I have had my U1 blue with the same AR coating for well over a year. I wear it everyday and I work outside with my hands in the telecommunications industry in conditions and places most people couldn’t and I have yet to scratch the coating at all. It’s a great plus for me to have it on there as I don’t have to point the watch directly at my eye in weird lighting.
I’m a huge Sinn fanboy so I really enjoyed this. I haves 104, 856, U1, and I think a 356 is next. I love these watches because there’s no nonsense. There was a great interview with their CEO a few years ago where he was asked why they don’t advertise more and he said they prefer to focus on making watches. I hadn’t chance to visit the factory in Frankfurt a couple of years ago and that was great too. (Thank you for pronouncing Sinn correctly, too!)
I decided about this time last year that I needed to quit playing around with lesser watches so I could have quantitatively more, and get something of more substance. After researching for months, nothing ticked all the boxes like the Sinn 556I: German (like my heritage), robust yet svelte, subtle yet visually stunning and nondescript but "legit"- a do-it-all watch for the modern sporting professional. So I sold two SKXs and a micro brand and pulled the trigger on mine last April.
the
And the chronometer grade, Sinn regulated SW200 is a runner- day to day I don't gain or lose more than a second, which means after three weeks since the last time I hacked it to nuclear time, it is maybe a half second down.
I love to learn and read about watches, but I can't really envision ever needing to move on to something else, especially as a daily.
Do you still think the same
@X-Deathtrigger I do. I wear it nearly everyday. I need to send it in for a servicing- after all this time it’s averaging -6 a day.
About five years ago I drove to the Sinn HQ in Frankfurt absolutely sure to get the 556i. And as I tried it on for the first time and really loved it, my eyes fell on another watch I hadn‘t noticed before: the 104 St Sa I - and the rest is history. 😄
I just got my Sinn 556i after watching many TB videos and research AND waiting half a year for it to be in stock! I love it so far. Thanks Teddy for introducing me to this hobby (addiction) and showing off the Sinn. 😁
Very enjoyable review. I too have a 556I. It is my only mechanical watch. I have it on the Sinn rubber strap. The clasp is different to the one shown in the video. It opens by pinching pins on the side. I wear it nearly all the time, I have a G-Shock for other uses. Mine runs about 5 seconds per day slow, which is no problem. I've had it two years so it had the ETA movement. I love it. Great size as I have smallish wrists.
I just ordered this watch, on the H-link bracelet, yesterday.
Now the wait for it to arrive begins! :D
Great review. I've had the 556i for about a year and a half now, and definitely one of my favorite watches. The watch has such a unique character/ridiculous versatility that really doesn't come across until you have it on your wrist, and IMO, the only watch that comes close to competing is an OP36. I'd honestly argue that the Sinn still edges it out as an everyday piece for most watch enthusiasts as it's a lot easier to feel comfortable "beating up" the Sinn, it's got a much simplier dial, and it doesn't have the same "Rolex" component that I feel turns a lot of enthusiasts off of getting a Rolex (as you mentioned).
That said, I feel like there are 2 trivial improvements (one you mentioned) that would make the watch infinitely better:
1) take the hands/indices that are used in literally every other 556i (the IB, the anthracite anniversary, the Korean LE, the MOPs...). Some people may argue there's a sportiness to the lume-only; I argue it reduces versatility, longevity (patina without some steel on the hands will probably just look ugly), and cheapens the watch.
2) Like you mentioned, the H-link clasp sucks. The links are great, the design is fitting, but the clasp itself is pretty rattle-y, doesn't feel good to open/close, and after comparing the trigger mechanism to the fine link, it's a weird/incongruous that they didn't have something a little better. My $300 Seiko SARB has a better clasp.
All of these are pretty small gripes and I still feel, without a doubt, this is a phenomenal watch whose value proposition is incredibly difficult to beat, but these are pretty small things to fix IMO.
Currently wearing mine with the fine link bracelet. Love it!
Nice video Teddy! The Sinn 556 is an awesome watch! By the way I really would be interested to see an updated video about the state of your actual watch collection
Great selection Teddy, for all the reasons that you stated. I, too, am a huge Sinn fan with the 556i, the 104 & the U1 SE in my collection. I’m a huge admirer of German watches, with several other brands in my boxes including Damasko, Laco, Stowa and even a Junkers. I am eyeing Sinn’s new U50 ... what a great re-size for the classic U1.
You might look at Muhle Glashutte my friend. They are pretty cool too.
No Sinns yet, though I'd love to have one eventually.
My "one watch collection" watch is a Hamilton pilot day/date "Cooper." I love the symmetry of a 12 o'clock day and 6 o'clock date, and the blingy indices make it easy to dress up or down. It's by far the most interesting flieger that I've seen. It was my only watch for a couple years, and even now that I've added a few more, I wear it far more often than the others. It's perfect.
I have the 556A with the special red seconds hand. It's awesome! Love it!
Awesome!!! That's a great looking watch!! Both are, actually!! 👍 I'm right now considering a 556 or a Damasko DS/DK 30.
Damasko's tech, crown system, submarine case, etc,,, keep drawing me in. But; there is just something about the Sinn 556!
I was torn between a Sinn 556i, and a Damasko DS30. It was a tough decision to make, but in the end I went with the DS30 because of the price, case thickness, and the hardened steel case.
I have the black mother of pearl face 566 and love it. Just everything I need a little bit more with the way the mother of pearl reacts to the sun. Fantastic watch
Lovely photography that really does the watch justice! I also own this watch and agree it’s an excellent piece. The only weak point as you point out is the slightly awkward clasp...
Just picked up Mido Ocean Star 200 blue dial and I am in love with it - absolutely stunning!! Sinn 556 I is definitely on my list though :)
I’m lucky enough to own some incredible watches. Day Dates, Daytona, BLNR, Reverso.... but if I had to build my dream ‘cheap’ (which by no means poor quality) collection, the Mido Ocean Star Tribute and Sinn 556 are 100% my picks.
I have this exact watch. Its awsome. The thinking mans Explorer, without any of that baggage you get with Rolex.
The Rolex "baggage" is a good 2. hand value Sinn dont have. If I sell my Rolex I make thousands of dollars, despite I have used it for years.
Loser!
@@jolin8493 bro, it's not that serious. Lol
I need me some Sinn! 😁 Love the rattrapante model with the white dial. 🙌
I would love to get your take of the brand on your channel. One of the few brands that makes a watch of every style and nothing feels forced.
@@TeddyBaldassarre noted! Will do it in the future! 🙌🙌
You probably won't see this since i watched it hours after you published it, but I gave some thought to your question. Something fun to think about the three one watch options. Lets go luxury first and since most people would say the 214270, i'd have to agree, but I'll say the Seamaster 300 41mm in black dial just to be a bit of a contrarian. For the mid range one I would say pick any of the Oris Big Crown Pointer Date. That way you could have a few color and material options to choose from. For the lower end I think you need to go with a Hamilton Khaki Field so again, you would have a number of options of color and size to pick from. But for sure the Sinn 556i would make me happy . Great episode Teddy
I want a friend like Teddy to talk about watches. Enjoying your videos a lot, thank you for the great content.
Man, I love it on that grey leather strap. What a classy understated watch. Great pick, Teddy!
Best watch ever.. super reliable, tough as nails, gorgeous.. I bet it will increase in price even more and will definitely keep its value over time.
I DO have a one watch collection, and it's the Sinn 556 a rs on the fine link.
I have both Damasko ds30 on a strap and Sinn 556i on a bracelet. Love them both, your right about the up tech of Damasko, but as far as price, if you factor in what Damasko wants for their matching bracelet, the Damasko will run you more.
I have the 55th anniversary version of 556i in gray dial color for 3 months now. It was perfect. Mine runs within an average of 2 seconds after continuous use for 2 weeks. It's also water-resistant to 200 meters. The best part of 556i is the bracelet. The build and quality were even better than my Omega Seamaster's bracelet.
the seamaster bracelet is pretty trash tbh
My one watch which i did choose is the 556i RS about six months ago and i am now satisfied and very glad i did because it fills every scenario out there and no need or desire to wear anything else at all.
Just like the old days when at school and you had only one watch till it broke or something..
A friend of mine took a picture of the 556i on someone else´s wrist and asked me what it was. I found out and got back to him with the comment "Nobody needs more watch than this." A year later I bought it myself and up until now I´m more than happy with the piece.
I love Sinn, I own 3 (856 UTC, 103 St, and EZM 13), but, wow, have the prices gone up! The 556 is a solid value at about $1K but at $1.5K? BTW, fantastic photography, Teddy!
Love my 556 A. I have a 7 1/2 inch wrist and the 556 still works great. Doesn't look too small. I actually sold my Rolex Explorer I 39mm MK 1 dial because I always would reach for the 556 instead. Understated and possibly the best everyday watch...at least for me. I considered the 856 but glad I chose the 556. Another great review, Teddy. PS: Consistently running at +3 a day out of the box.
Good to hear. I’m really tempted with this watch, but with a 7.5 inch wrist, I thought it too small, but you seem to think it’s ok. I really need to try this on, then. Thanks for the info.
Sorry for the late question. Why did you sell the explorer? I feel like it’s better than the 556 is it not? What made you reach for the sinn over the rolex? Thanks!
@@ATLdonkeh Good question. I’m sure I’ll get roasted for saying this but I don’t think the Explorer is “better” than the Sinn, just as I don’t think a Patek Nautilus is better than an Rolex Sub. But that’s not why I sold the explorer. I already have an Oyster Perpetual black dial. The EX1 was really redundant to that as well. I’d say if someone wants the explorer and can comfortably afford it…get it. It’s a great watch. That said, the Sinn will get the job done just as well.
Oh i understand! That makes sense 100% it’s a tough decision for me, on the one hand i feel like the rolex is the safe choice as in, the holy grail one and only watch type deal but on the other hand the 556 is just charming in a way, it’s going to be a head scratcher that’s for sure. Thanks!
There's also the 556 RS variant that has the red seconds hand. I think the red hand only works well with the 556 a, but not on the 556 i.
My Sinn 104 runs at +1.25/day... so I second the notion of Sinn doing a better factory tuning than most.
Yeah, my 556i with a Sellita runs at +1. Not sure any of my watches have ever been better, including a few Rolex and Omegas.
In an alternative universe, Teddy has an evil goatee (1/2 way there) and wears a Sinn 556 every day and doesn't think about watches.
Perfect timing Teddy, I've been saving up for a while and plan on getting one by the end of the year. I've been doing research for months and there's nothing quite like it, you know when a watch just speaks to you? I especially enjoy your reviews because we have similar build and wrist size.
You’ll love this one I bet 👍🏻 thanks for watching!
Or terrible timing if like me you’re about to start looking for one on the preowned market and this video has alerted more people to these great watches. Damnit 😣
@@TazioN I've looked at pre-owned but the few I could find seem to be too close to full price, at that point I'd rather buy it new with discount from an AD.
Ouroboros Where do you live? In the US there’s only one AD and that’s watchbuys.com. They’re not gonna give a discount.
@@jimv.6631 Italy, we have a couple of ADs here, both brick and mortar and online, and I could have it for 1070€.
I have the 556IA great watch used it almost every day for the last 10 years.. a companion watch. I also have a 356 which is brilliant but too busy from my eyes. I recommend Sinn it’s a solid watch and looks good on the bracelet
Very elegant watch, something to consider for sure! As always, Good work Teddy!! 👊🏽
13:06 "you are paying a premium for this bracelet" I'm a big Sinn fanboi but even I do a spit-take when I see the price of their branded bracelets/silicone straps.
Yeah, you're not wrong. I bought my 556I with the silicone strap and it was a lot more money. However, after a couple of years on daily wearing the strap and clasp are in perfect condition. It also fits perfectly which matters to me as I would have replaced a leather strap with a silicone, had I bought the cheaper leather equipped version and I doubt I could have done better. So all in all I don't regret the extra spent.
@@JemOtherStuff "Quality is remembered long after price is forgotten" or "A thing of beauty is a joy forever".
I have had an 856 on silicone strap for 6 years. The silicone strap is awesome.
I have the bracelet on my U1b and am debating weather I want the matching blue silicone strap.
I have had and sold this watch. I would happily buy it again if it had the no date version with the black face.
Great review Teddy - thank you.
Sinn gets a tremendous following, but I have to say that for me, its understated is perhaps just a little too understated. At their old pricing levels, maybe. Where it is now hanging out where Longines and Oris live (or I'll be honest my own favourite - Certina which is quite a bit cheaper). It's not the easiest place to be.
Great review of Sinn 556. Discovered the brand in 2017 spring with 856 b uhr teg on bracelet. Really great watches and durable as any one would need. Technology and style an durability got me to the U 50 T. Lov the brand and what it represents to the watch customer. My dress watch is a Ball Marvellite ll with blue tritium. Lov the lume. Thank you for your videos. Stay healthy and safe.
I just got aSinn 104(brushed case) this week......love it!
Great watch, superb construction, it’s a tank of a watch, I been more interested in pilot watches recently and I acquired an Alpina Startimer with indexes instead of numerals like your Sinn . Nice video, keep the good work my friend!
Love my 556i! I don't have the bracelet and definitely love the look but it's not cheap! Great review Teddy
Thanks for giving Sinn so much love I'd recommend the new Sinn 556 I RS with a red second hand! Cheers from Frankfurt!
After collecting/ being obsessed watches for for a little over 10 years, my list is the following:
Less than $100: G-Shock DW5600-BB
Less than $500: Hamilton Khaki King
Less than $4000: Tudor Black Bay Steel
I miss my Hamilton Khaki King and G-Shock but I just don't see myself wearing them as much now that I have my Tudor BB steel.
The sweet spot is 10mm but the Tudor wears so well because of its tapered lugs. Sometimes I forget I'm wearing it when I'm sleeping. (Yes I put on/sometimes switch watches before bed.)
I wear 556i daily for 7.5 years. Watch is great. It is so versetaile and trustworthy. 11 mm 200 wr shock resistant antimagnetic simple 38,5 allrounder. I feel obliged to warn people who are interested in investing money in 556i
1. You will have to remove ar on the outside. I had to do it after one year of heavy wear and tear.
2. Watch has very short lugs. Bracelet may look strange on larger wrists, first links may stand out. Consider fine bracelet but i dont have any experience whith it.
3. You may be between micro adjustments
4. Sapphire smudges easly due to glossy dial.
5. Index on 3 o'clock is shorter so it is not entirely symetric
6. Lume is snow white for estetics thou not very bright
7. Watch is completly under the radar so only watch geeks notice it
8. Was a great bang for buck 8 years ago but not enymore. At this pricepoint I would save for omega or smthg. So much money and not even ETA. C'mon It is way too much. I paid less than 900 dollars whith bracelet. Probably they cannot keep up whith demand so they do this.
For me it's a tossup between between Sinn 556A and Damasko DS-30. I normally prefer indexes, but Sinn's arabic dials are really something special.
For under $1k one watch collection, I'd pick my Seiko SARB033. It's a classic for a reason. Gets more wrist time than the whole rest of my collection.
I have grown to like the idea of a double AR coating. I really love a beautiful dial and with 2x AR I can easily read the time and stare into the dial without a glare. Longines does this too for example and their legibility is breathtaking at times.
This review allowed me to see the difference between the 556i and 556a. The inky black dial. The inky black with the coarse, matte black on the hands creates some depth to the piece. The 556A has the matte black throughout and lacks that depth. Thanks for sharing that data because I couldn't tell on their website if it had other differences besides the indexes. Cheers!
Great piece and great review, Teddy! This is a tremendous value piece in my opinion and the Sinn watch I keep coming back to as the Sinn I'd own.
One watch:
Affordable under $1000 - Tissot Powermatic 80
$1000 - $3000 - probably this Sinn 556i or a Hamilton Intramatic Chrono
$3000+ - Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean or maybe Seamaster 300 alternatively - The Seamaster truly covers every scenario from sea to field to Tuxedo in my opinion.
Sinn gained its fame through the cockpit clocks used in many Airbus Helicopters and small aircraft. The first German Skylab astronaut had a Sinn 140 ST.
Thanks, Teddy, nice video. 856 non UTC has been on my radar for a while. Higher price but more technical features. 556 is my brother's choice, but it doesn't look like either one of us can afford one right now. Nice to dream, though .
I had this watch and loved it but ended up getting an 836 instead. I have a bit over 18.5cm (7 1/2") flattish (6.5cm across) wrist and am kind of a tall, 100kg dude and the 556 looked small on me. So, those on the fence about the 556 could check out the 836 - it's also a bit "fancier" and even more versatile. People often mention it might wear big because of the narrowish bezel, but it doesn't, in my opinion, though it IS a bit hefty if you wear it on the bracelet. ALSO, regarding the diver's extension on the H-link - it's awesome if you have wider hands as it makes it way easier to put on the watch! Haven't seen any reviewer mention this before. Anyway, 556 or 836, can't go wrong.
One great thing about Sinn is that no matter if you get a 104 or a Frankfurt am Main, the quality is the same. Sure there are feature differences, complications or water resistance, but the quality is the same. Bang for buck they're probably one of the best watches for the money, resale is decent, almost to the point of buying new and there is only one AD for the US and Canada. Thankfully they are reputable. I have a U1 on order which should come to next month. And did put the order in before the price hike.
Hello Teddy, very nice video. Sinn‘s are stunner for the price point! Love my 903 from 1991 with a Lemania movement. I‘m sure some other Sinns will follow... Keep on making such great content! Thx! Nice weekend, greetings from Germany, Sascha.
Understated perfection! Great review teddy. 👌
My brother gave me his 556i because he got fed up with it after it broke twice in a short period. The last watchmaker who worked on it sadly left a tiny smudge inside the crystal, but he also regulated it to the point where it keeps within 2 seconds per day, so I don't dare pull out the movement to clean it.
Great review! I have a 556I and I only have 4 complaints about it. I wish the hands were just a touch bigger, I wish the date was at 6 or nonexistent, The lume isn't great, and the clasp does feel cheap. It really is a great watch though. Mine is running at less than 1 second fast per day. I have the Sellita movement as well. I've been considering selling it but I'm afraid I'd regret it. I know it's a much lower tier but I've been wearing my Helm Vanuatu daily for months. I absolutely love the Vanuatu. If the Helm had the movement from my Sinn it would be pure perfection IMO.
I bought a sinn 556i rs as my first "serious" watch and it really does work with everything total strap monster
I prefer the 556A to the 556I but thats purely a fielder's choice decision. Great watch for the price. Its basically a watersports watch with more robustness than an Aqua Terra, but with a bit more pilot inspired design to it. Yeah the Sellita is not an Omega movement but for $3,000 less one would not expect it to be. Damasko has some good alternatives especially with their similar case hardening. Stowa is a strong German price point too. But Sinn is probably more well known than both of those and with that may carry a bit more street cred due to the other tools watches in the lineup Sinn sells which are tour de forces in the tech and robustness department. Heard of a few quality control issues with Sinn lately -- namely the accuracy of the movements being quite spotty compared to quoted spec -- but if you dont have to send it back for recalibration I think the 556 line is still Sinn's best value model of the entire brand -- which is good because its probably also their best selling and well-known. Its so well known Bell & Ross and many others have more or less copied it for years.
I just bought one these (outstanding). FYI: Looks like the newer models reduced the weight of the date font, so it is less bold and stays out of the way. An improvement.
I bought the 856 non utc which is the tegimented steel version of the 556a. It’s a little more but with other great Sinn tech. Was able to visit and purchase at Sinn factory in Frankfurt. For those who want a more rugged, less polished version of the 556, the 856 is worth a look. Overall couldn’t agree more about Teddys comparison of the 556 to other brands. High quality without the bling
I have one and the 356 and 856...I love them! 856 might be the toughest watch ever made!
The one thing that holds me back from wholly embracing this particular model is the lack of any differentiated indices at the 12 o'clock mark. That's a major oversight with consideration to the immediacy of legibility at a quick glance of the dial.
Check the 556A instead of 556I
You make a good point. But, I find the Sinn logo and date window very quickly help to know where you are.
You may like the Damasko DS 30 then... plus the case doesn’t scratch, And it’s thinner. I really like mine
Bucket list: Everyday watch: Hamilton Khaki Automatic (which I have). Mid-level watch: Seiko Presage Prestige Line Arita Porcelain Dial Limited Edition. High end/money is no object watch: A. Lange & Sohne 1815 in white gold, with silver dial, blue hands, and Arabic numbers.
Don’t be apologetic about what you like. Everyone has specific likes. Great job on the review.
Great watch. I also think the 556A is a good alternative to the Rolex Explorer. Great video, Teddy. Thanks.
Sinn has such a great reputation. I don't think I've seen anybody who has been overly critical of them. And good luck getting a Damasko. They're just about impossible to find.
I love this watch. Such an elegant and versatile everyday watch. Goes with any outfit