Nice review, nice video, great watch! However, the 18mm measurement shown in the specs part is NOT the L2L spec but rather the lug width (or band/strap width if you prefer). The actual lug-to-lug (L2L) distance for this case (case ref. 01V0) is 42mm. And I totally agree - this case is indeed one of 2-3 best Seiko 5 cases they've ever made :)
Thinking of buying this watch. The fact it has numbers makes it easier to tell time. Sometimes you just need to look at your wrist really quick to see what time it is. I had to get used to the other seiko watches and even still, takes me a few seconds to know what time it is lol
Mate, i bought this watch after I watched your video. It's such a beautiful watch with a military look! Lots of details in the outlining of the hour markers and day-date window. Makes me craving for Hamilton Khaki for my birthday 😁 Update: After almost 3 weeks, it goes faster just around a minute or so! Super awesomeness! 😁 👍 😎
I love this model, one of my favorites. I prefer the SNKL23 case style but the SNK381 is more comfortable and really lkike this dial, top 3 among seiko 5s for me.
Eric, I put my SNK381 in a SNK803 case because I think it has more of a field watch aesthetic. Then I tossed it on a vintage Bond two piece NATO. I then used the SNK381 case to house my SNKL15 which I think is a pretty poor design. When you remove the bracelet on the SNKL15 case and install a strap, there is a large gap between the strap and the case edge. And the lugs look spindly and the crown sucks. The SNK381 case is also used in the SNKL41 which is my poor man’s SARB035. Agree that the SNK381 case is quite good and converts to leather straps quite easily.
I agree, the 381 dial has that aviator / field watch aesthetic. It seems suit suited to be on the SNK803 case style. I've considered using the SNKL15 handset, just haven't pulled the trigger. Another option would be to put in a blue dial with stick indices for the case, then some stick hands to match. Ah, I guess thats the drawback with the longer lugs of the 15, I can totally see that issue. I'm just looking for a good leather strap to put the case on now!
Just a word of warning if you're thinking about swapping the SNK381 movement and dial into the SNK80x case - you're gonna need to swap the plastic movement spacers as the case back won't close otherwise which of course requires removing hand set and dial. PITA for something I thought was gonna take fifteen minutes.
Another great review. I love the black matte dial. You convinced me to buy the SNK795 and have it on my wrist at this very moment. You might have convinced me to get this one as well.
Hi, i love the dial... and the movement. (I know everyone says the nh35 is better but in my eyes the old 7s26 is better (less moving parts and same accuracy) Big question: is the 7s26 the same size in all the seiko watches? (Example: this same watch and the skx007? Are they the same size?... the movement, not the case obviously) The reason why i want to know that is because i bought a 40mm aftermarket case with 32mm crystal and 11mm of thickness and wanted to know if i can fit that dial and movement inside it (the aftermarket case has screw down crown and its made out of titanium)
dude you always have great videos. amazon has this watch for $90. being as i've learned how to do my own mods by watching your videos, i'm gonna use this watch for my 2nd. mod. been looking for this kind of case and thanks to you I won't have to break the bank. keep the videos coming. those of us who can't really go for a rolex or Tudor (not yet) will have to rely on guys like you for inspiration and ideas. stay hydrated!!!! next time bring a coconut water with you. (i was born in central america where it's always freakin hot and coconut water does wonders!) cheers!!
Great video. I just received mine in the mail. Its a gift - and I wanted to double check with a real Seiko 5 SNK381 to know that it's real. 2 vids, 3 stills, everything matches up precisely. Brand new with tags BUT the seller sent me a ripped manual and no warranty card. I messages them immediately, and he says hes sending another. Slick sellers, you gotta watch out. Any way, I got the Seiko 5 because it matched what my giftee wears and likes, but is a substantial upgrade over their basic Timex (though the Timex always last 7 years on a battery or so and keeps perfect time, they say), I feel, because the 5's auto, great reputation, build, should last 20 years and more with care. Whether they'll like the band, who can say, but its easy enough to change. The numbers are big, easy to read, and the numbers glow. In my deep search, that was rare. My only concern is how long they stay elimunated after dark. Any idea? Ive got it set, in a watch winder. Looks great, and I think I'll get a Seiko for myself, but I'd prefer a Seiko diver, big dots, beefier case, no chrono. Thanks again
Wanted to upgrade this watch with sapphire - $14.95 from China(ebay) double dome, no AR, - makes watch look a lot better and should give better scratch protection. Now may end up putting NH36 in and upgrading bracelet.
Is it good on accuracy and keeping it winded? I. Looking into buying this same watch but concerned I’ll become a slave to shaking it daily because I barely move around in the day I’m a college student and basically only move from classroom to classroom.(I’m very new to watches and this would be my first automatic)
This is easily the best version of the OG 5s. And, given the prices of the new SNK/SNXSs (around 300 USD), people should grab one of the old 5s NOW, because I have a feeling their prices will go up. The SNK381Ks lowest price I could find in the EU is 120 EUR/120USD right now...
Format is different and nice. The Seiko 5 is a very good looking watch. If I didn't already have a SKX007 in need of modification, I would definitely consider purchasing one. Enjoy your walk and keep cool.
Thanks for the feedback! I'll definitely be doing some more vlog / walk & talk style videos if theres good feedback. Staying in the AC all day isn't the greatest for sure.
Hi I have this watch and think it's a great watch the only thing I would like to do is cut off the lumed part of the second hand what's your thoughts. .?
You said it man! You are the first one to say it. The Seiko 5 badge is really ugly and serves no purpose. I complete agree with you that it really cheapens the dial and the watch looks a lot better without it.
Great looking watch dial. Not a big fan of the hand shape, but it's subjective. I definitely agree with the case shape, love it. I'm putting together my own SKX mod if I can ever get the watch I need the dial from. Why the CNC lathe and Printer community hasn't got in to making after market dials is beyond me. There is a big lack of really nice carbon fiber and sunburst dials available. Thumbs up!
I agree! The hands aren't my favorite, but the dial is great looking and especially the case, my favorite Seiko 5 case possibly. I would only suspect that the small tolerances required for dials, such as the applied markers and dial feet, would still require a lot of hand finishing after the rough cut out from the CNC. The cost would be quite high, if they can manage to produce such thin components without having it burn/ warp the metal/ break off during the milling process.
I like that case, too, and I completely agree about with your opinions but when I saw the case on the SNKK93 (and other models using the same case), I like that case way better. I used to have an SNK809 but I just didn't like it enough because of the thinner lugs, plus I wanted to stick with 20MM bands/straps.
Hi bro thanks for the videos. amazing job BTW do you have any ideas on how to remove that seiko "5" badge, since you thinking that doesnt make the watch looks better
Thanks for watching! The badge can be removed but its held in by pins, similar to dial feet. Taking the badge out will leave holes on the dial where the badge attached to, which may not be appealing to look at either.
Is this case the same as the snkl23? Or is it fatter? I would love to swap my snkl23 dial into one if it is. Also is the ‘5’ applied by glue? If so, you could experiment with getting it off without damaging the dial.
Wasnt home to look at my watch but yeah, a quick google search confirms. the case/lugs are definitely fatter than the snkl23 so now I need to add a case swap to my list of mods haha.
Thanks for the video, I love analog watches.... But the 381 is way too small, can you recommend something similar with the numbers at say 42mm minimum? Keep up the great work!
Good review. And thanks for showing the dial in the dark, not everyone does that. You're right about the 5 badge. I don't think it looks awful, but it sure looks nicer and more expensive without it. I hope to receive one this Christmas. Again, thanks for a good review. Subscribed.
This watch makes a great base for making a ‘SOG’ watch - fabric strap and a wrist compass.
Any idea where I can get thoses hands from the dog watch
Exactly, I just got one to turn into a replica SOG watch.
@@jacobriley4531 - I got an original , and made a replica (with compass) so I could wear it about as a beater.
@@NapoleonGelignite any idea where to get the hands from the sog watch
Nice review, nice video, great watch! However, the 18mm measurement shown in the specs part is NOT the L2L spec but rather the lug width (or band/strap width if you prefer). The actual lug-to-lug (L2L) distance for this case (case ref. 01V0) is 42mm. And I totally agree - this case is indeed one of 2-3 best Seiko 5 cases they've ever made :)
Thinking of buying this watch. The fact it has numbers makes it easier to tell time. Sometimes you just need to look at your wrist really quick to see what time it is. I had to get used to the other seiko watches and even still, takes me a few seconds to know what time it is lol
Mate, i bought this watch after I watched your video. It's such a beautiful watch with a military look! Lots of details in the outlining of the hour markers and day-date window. Makes me craving for Hamilton Khaki for my birthday 😁
Update:
After almost 3 weeks, it goes faster just around a minute or so! Super awesomeness! 😁 👍 😎
That is impressive! My Hamilton runs 10 faster everyday.
Great video, great info. I loved that you went into detail about the comfort of the cheap watch band. Thanks for the info!
Just received mine today. Put it on a silicone strap. Looks great.
Great looking dial! I agree with the 5 on the dial making it look cheap though. I understanding branding, but it definitely cheapens the look.
I love this model, one of my favorites. I prefer the SNKL23 case style but the SNK381 is more comfortable and really lkike this dial, top 3 among seiko 5s for me.
Same here, the SNKL23 case is okay, but the 381 just does it right for me.
I have the snkl23 but the problem is when you put leather strap is huge gape
Between the case
@@the1.peopleExactly! that´s the problem of that case. I like how it looks but I really don´t like this gap.
Eric, I put my SNK381 in a SNK803 case because I think it has more of a field watch aesthetic. Then I tossed it on a vintage Bond two piece NATO. I then used the SNK381 case to house my SNKL15 which I think is a pretty poor design. When you remove the bracelet on the SNKL15 case and install a strap, there is a large gap between the strap and the case edge. And the lugs look spindly and the crown sucks. The SNK381 case is also used in the SNKL41 which is my poor man’s SARB035. Agree that the SNK381 case is quite good and converts to leather straps quite easily.
I agree, the 381 dial has that aviator / field watch aesthetic. It seems suit suited to be on the SNK803 case style. I've considered using the SNKL15 handset, just haven't pulled the trigger. Another option would be to put in a blue dial with stick indices for the case, then some stick hands to match. Ah, I guess thats the drawback with the longer lugs of the 15, I can totally see that issue. I'm just looking for a good leather strap to put the case on now!
Just a word of warning if you're thinking about swapping the SNK381 movement and dial into the SNK80x case - you're gonna need to swap the plastic movement spacers as the case back won't close otherwise which of course requires removing hand set and dial. PITA for something I thought was gonna take fifteen minutes.
Blasphemy - who doesn't need another Seiko 5. Great looking watch with the best lume I've seen from Seiko.
Love the Lumed hands and numeral markers... Syringe Style or Cathedral style hands would look killer with that dial!! (IMHO)
Another great review. I love the black matte dial. You convinced me to buy the SNK795 and have it on my wrist at this very moment. You might have convinced me to get this one as well.
They are both really nice watches for the price point! They are like worry free little beaters for me!
Here's a good mod suggestion, mod it into a 6619-8060 MACV-SOG homage with a worn in NATO strap. It's almost there already.
Hi, i love the dial... and the movement. (I know everyone says the nh35 is better but in my eyes the old 7s26 is better (less moving parts and same accuracy)
Big question: is the 7s26 the same size in all the seiko watches?
(Example: this same watch and the skx007? Are they the same size?... the movement, not the case obviously)
The reason why i want to know that is because i bought a 40mm aftermarket case with 32mm crystal and 11mm of thickness and wanted to know if i can fit that dial and movement inside it (the aftermarket case has screw down crown and its made out of titanium)
I was in doubt among some models of Seiko, but after your video, the doubt is over and I already bought mine, I'm waiting for delivery.
dude you always have great videos. amazon has this watch for $90. being as i've learned how to do my own mods by watching your videos, i'm gonna use this watch for my 2nd. mod. been looking for this kind of case and thanks to you I won't have to break the bank. keep the videos coming. those of us who can't really go for a rolex or Tudor (not yet) will have to rely on guys like you for inspiration and ideas. stay hydrated!!!! next time bring a coconut water with you. (i was born in central america where it's always freakin hot and coconut water does wonders!) cheers!!
Thanks for the kind words! Best of luck on the mod, I'll most definitely keep up the videos! I'll get some coconut water next time haha.
Wow that is some great lume. Have you ever taken off the 5 from a seiko 5 dial?
Love the watch & the video review !!!
Great video. I just received mine in the mail. Its a gift - and I wanted to double check with a real Seiko 5 SNK381 to know that it's real. 2 vids, 3 stills, everything matches up precisely. Brand new with tags BUT the seller sent me a ripped manual and no warranty card. I messages them immediately, and he says hes sending another. Slick sellers, you gotta watch out. Any way, I got the Seiko 5 because it matched what my giftee wears and likes, but is a substantial upgrade over their basic Timex (though the Timex always last 7 years on a battery or so and keeps perfect time, they say), I feel, because the 5's auto, great reputation, build, should last 20 years and more with care. Whether they'll like the band, who can say, but its easy enough to change. The numbers are big, easy to read, and the numbers glow. In my deep search, that was rare. My only concern is how long they stay elimunated after dark. Any idea? Ive got it set, in a watch winder. Looks great, and I think I'll get a Seiko for myself, but I'd prefer a Seiko diver, big dots, beefier case, no chrono. Thanks again
totally agree. hate the 5 logo. can you remove it easily enough?
Wanted to upgrade this watch with sapphire - $14.95 from China(ebay) double dome, no AR, - makes watch look a lot better and should give better scratch protection. Now may end up putting NH36 in and upgrading bracelet.
I loved this watch so much I bought 2. Iv put a nato on both but different colours
Is it good on accuracy and keeping it winded? I. Looking into buying this same watch but concerned I’ll become a slave to shaking it daily because I barely move around in the day I’m a college student and basically only move from classroom to classroom.(I’m very new to watches and this would be my first automatic)
will this watch last long? i love it but i heard bad things about the movement? what are your thougts and experi
enceces
I hear it’s durable but not the most accurate
This is easily the best version of the OG 5s.
And, given the prices of the new SNK/SNXSs (around 300 USD), people should grab one of the old 5s NOW, because I have a feeling their prices will go up.
The SNK381Ks lowest price I could find in the EU is 120 EUR/120USD right now...
Format is different and nice. The Seiko 5 is a very good looking watch. If I didn't already have a SKX007 in need of modification, I would definitely consider purchasing one. Enjoy your walk and keep cool.
Thanks for the feedback! I'll definitely be doing some more vlog / walk & talk style videos if theres good feedback. Staying in the AC all day isn't the greatest for sure.
Finally a youtube with slim wrists like mine!!
Hi I have this watch and think it's a great watch the only thing I would like to do is cut off the lumed part of the second hand what's your thoughts. .?
You said it man! You are the first one to say it. The Seiko 5 badge is really ugly and serves no purpose. I complete agree with you that it really cheapens the dial and the watch looks a lot better without it.
Gorgeous watch. Another well made video. Thanks.
This watch is better than seiko 5 snkl23
Great looking watch dial. Not a big fan of the hand shape, but it's subjective. I definitely agree with the case shape, love it. I'm putting together my own SKX mod if I can ever get the watch I need the dial from. Why the CNC lathe and Printer community hasn't got in to making after market dials is beyond me. There is a big lack of really nice carbon fiber and sunburst dials available. Thumbs up!
I agree! The hands aren't my favorite, but the dial is great looking and especially the case, my favorite Seiko 5 case possibly. I would only suspect that the small tolerances required for dials, such as the applied markers and dial feet, would still require a lot of hand finishing after the rough cut out from the CNC. The cost would be quite high, if they can manage to produce such thin components without having it burn/ warp the metal/ break off during the milling process.
Do you have any recommendations if i want to change the bracelet for the SNK381K in terms of metal bracelets?
I like that case, too, and I completely agree about with your opinions but when I saw the case on the SNKK93 (and other models using the same case), I like that case way better. I used to have an SNK809 but I just didn't like it enough because of the thinner lugs, plus I wanted to stick with 20MM bands/straps.
These cases are the best, I really do prefer them over the snk809. These are all 18mm though! I don't really mind too much.
Hmm, I'm thinking the same thing too...
N that the SNXS79 is really overhyped... 😁
I have it and it’s my favourite Seiko 5. People are shocked when they find it is only 100$
Hi bro thanks for the videos. amazing job
BTW do you have any ideas on how to remove that seiko "5" badge, since you thinking that doesnt make the watch looks better
Thanks for watching! The badge can be removed but its held in by pins, similar to dial feet. Taking the badge out will leave holes on the dial where the badge attached to, which may not be appealing to look at either.
Pero el logo es una característica que en el tiempo lo transformará en un clásico.....saludos desde Chile.
Have the same watch, quickly became my favorite and daily. Wish I could put a sapphire crystal on it.
@@paulhuinink8425 Thanks man.
Does SNK381 uses a 29mm Crystal?
Bought mine for $81.00 a year ago and is my favorite snk.
The only downside is the shiny finish,bead/sand blasted is better imo because it conceals scratches...
Is this case the same as the snkl23? Or is it fatter? I would love to swap my snkl23 dial into one if it is. Also is the ‘5’ applied by glue? If so, you could experiment with getting it off without damaging the dial.
Wasnt home to look at my watch but yeah, a quick google search confirms. the case/lugs are definitely fatter than the snkl23 so now I need to add a case swap to my list of mods haha.
Great video yet again I have had the same watch about a year and I like it . Try a white shirt if it's so hot.
Thanks! Glad you like the watch, I really do as well. The sweat stains are the most appealing thing to look at haha
Perfect case for a Tudor mod.
I love this model
Would this dial fit in my Urchin snzf15.
Dat's a pretty legit looking dial. But I do hate hate the "5" logo.
Thanks for the video, I love analog watches.... But the 381 is way too small, can you recommend something similar with the numbers at say 42mm minimum? Keep up the great work!
18mm lug with, the lug2 lug should be the from top to bottom
I did say lug to lug width in the video, I didn't put it on the caption since it would look cluttered.
Good review. And thanks for showing the dial in the dark, not everyone does that. You're right about the 5 badge. I don't think it looks awful, but it sure looks nicer and more expensive without it. I hope to receive one this Christmas.
Again, thanks for a good review. Subscribed.
anybody can help me to find SNK381 crystal size ???
is it pretty easy to remove the 5?
If there’s one thing I wish Seiko would do, it’s remove that idiotic 5 logo from their dial. It looks so much cleaner without it
I love this watch. but the strap is the worst thing ever.
Most cars in the background are European. Good to see :)
Watch very good but strap directly in trash.
1:48 Thats what she said
nice dial with Arabic number
Good looking watch but the hour and minute hands are similar to a ladies watch
As a man with hairy forearms, I'll never know if seiko 5 bracelets are comfy or not. Stupid rolled links
The watch looks nice but just 30m waterresisstant is not an option for me.
Not under $100 anymore
"it cheapens the watch?" What? The piece is under 70 usd (out loud). Name another brand that can go toe to toe with the price