Hahhaha. I wanted to pick on you for that but you are right 24/7 so there was no point in even bringing it up! Love the content! King turtle is definitely on my radar.
Agree to disagree. I love the placement, shape, and size of the date window. And the King Turtle is not a perfect substitute for this watch-it's WAY bigger and chunkier. For someone like me, it's not appealing. This watch, however, is a wonderful size and a much nicer design.
Ya, it's pretty great. Love having a date window on all my watches since I end up forgetting all the time while at work. Super helpful. The placement is great, out of the way. I don't want some fancy cutout bezel or something for a watch like this. I don't have bad eye genetics so I can see it fine being small. Having a 6.5" flat wrist, this is pretty much the perfect size case also. Probably going to pick one of these up for $800 or so soon(SPB317, black dial). Certainly wouldn't pay $1100 for it though. Btw, the giant abomination day-date cyclops on the waffle dial king turtles just kill me. Feels like it takes up half the dial. Disgusting. I'm not big on day functions or cyclops though. Really just uglifies a watch.
I don’t have this watch but that date window is perfect. Keeps the symmetry alive and the circle gives me a nautical water drop vibe. Also, Seiko lined the date wheel up with all of the other text. This might be the best date I’ve seen.
One of the most well respected luxury diver watches on the market (Blancpain Fifty Fathoms) has a date at the 4:30 position. Truely I would argue that seiko executed the date better than a $18K watch because it is upright. I know everyone is allowed to have opinions, and I agree that traditionally dates at this location are a “no-no” but I believe it is done well and I appreciate that it is there. Just got my guilted variant and it is beautiful. Much better than my guilted turtle that I absolutely loved.
Whats the problem ? There are several options in the 300-500 USD range within the Seiko offering. For some reason Seiko are expected to give away watches for nothing. Other brands could benefit from the same scrutiny as Seiko gets.
It's because seiko is the best constantly compared to even more expensive watches but those prices are justified go figure I'd say all watches are overpriced
@@maxp5422 ya , we bitch about seiko pricing but are completely ok with Tudor pricing... I have a bb58 and a 143.. The bb58 is not 4k better than the 143.
I recently picked up a NEW Samurai, which seemed to fill the right boxes. Divers 200 mt, beautiful very Japanese looking case, large knurled crown, drilled lugs, nice finish etc. $300-$400. Very happy with it and as an added bonus, the chapter ring is perfectly aligned. :)
I'm wearing the SPB317 right now, with the rubber strapped swapped out for the braclet from the green dial Tortoise. It's a lovely watch, carries the vintage looks and vibes of the original it's based on. Yeah, it's more expensive than a typical turtle. The date window isn't hardly noticeable, tbh. But the sublty domed saphire crystal, the slightly different brushed shoulders etc, make it look stunning.
You used to be able to get a PADI certified, Prospex Diver, threaded crown, 120 click bezel, 4 o’clock crown and a datebwindow that isn’t hideous and in a stupid position for like $300. Now, that same watch, with the addition of a sapphire crystal is $500-600 easy. They’re using the quality and popularity of GS to pull their once affordable watches into these ridiculous prices.
I’d like to point out that the placement of the date window isn’t an afterthought. For the watch to be a certified ISO diver there has to be a lumed piece at 3 o’clock. So instead of trying to shoe-horn a tiny lumed marker in between the date and edge of the dial (which they’ve done before on other models) they just moved it altogether.
@@thetimeteller so this is a fairly newer regulation to have the lume at 3 o’clock, it wasn’t like that when the SKX was released. But a cool thing about moving the date window is that when you are looking at the watch under lume you get a symmetrical appearance, like having a no date. 👍🏻
At least the date wheel matches the dial. I like this piece a lot. Seiko making watches all over the price range is something people will need to get used to.
I just returned my Seiko because the bezel was misaligned. I really can't understand how that has become like a sad common occurrence. It's a pretty unforgivable thing to miss and makes you wonder if they even have a QC process
This looks so much better than the KT - it looks so much more refined. KT is indeed a value prop but this (and a lot of the other Seiko £1k stuff) is simply better - slightly better finishing, slightly better bracelet, slightly better crystal, dia shield treated, better movement, better aesthetics. That’s a lot of slightly betters that add up to a better watch - which shockingly is more expensive. Yes compared to Seiko divers from mid 2010s this isn’t a great value prop. Compared to entry level Swiss stuff in same price bracket and a bit above it’s a killer value proposition. In todays market these seikos are fairly priced imho.
Yeah. It’s like all the people complaining that seiko 5s are super expensive now…those retailed at 195 25 years ago. 300 bucks for a new seiko 5 is really good. 200 bucks from the 90s is 450 dollars today…people just like to complain and don’t like to think or do research
@@mariog7213 people like Jory harking back to the glory value days of Seiko in early 2000s conveniently gloss over that these new $1k prospex divers are significantly more up market in look and feel than what Seiko used to offer. They have made moves to provide higher quality watches - which these are - and are pricing them accordingly. And again against the opposition at $1-1.5K Seiko still kills.
@@mariog7213 people like Jory harking back to the glory value days of Seiko in early 2000s conveniently gloss over that these new $1k prospex divers are significantly more up market in look and feel than what Seiko used to offer. They have made moves to provide higher quality watches - which these are - and are pricing them accordingly. And again against the opposition at $1-1.5K Seiko still kills.
Seiko fan here, love my grenade to bits, and had to get the all blacked out king turtle version as well, and both are aligned perfectly, but alignment problems start when the pip(or the triangle that contains the pip on the bezel)the isn’t even centered, take a look at the pip inside the upside down triangle on the bezel in the vid. For 500 the pip should be in the center, let alone 1100.
This is actually a really nice watch once you actually get it in your hands and put it on, you can’t help but think “damn, that looks good.” I picked up the spb313 and don’t regret it one bit. The white dial is precise and beautiful. The date window is brilliant, it’s there when you want it and not there when you don’t. It’s small enough and in a place your eyes aren’t trained to go to so it reads like a no date watch. I don’t think a king turtle is a great alternative to this one as they are way chunkier. I feel like if you’re already seeing it as I do and considering buying it and then went for the king turtle… you’re going to regret it.
I recently entered the hobby and was looking to get a Seiko diver to celebrate a new job. I instead chose an Orient and a Vostok and I am very happy with my purchases. If you like Seikos, consider Signum, Helm or Zelos instead. Far better options with great lume and build quality.
About three years ago, I got a promotional deal through JomaShop for the Orient Kamasu for well under $300. Like all divers (no matter who makes it), it's too big for my tiny little 6.3" wrist (don't laugh, I can clean my own garbage disposal!). It has a saphire crystal, 200m water resistance, Day/Date complication, and it gains about 6 to 8 seconds a day. All for about $900 less.
I picked up an SPB317 for $740 new from an AD. I’ve had it for two weeks now. Overall, I like it. It’s well finished, it looks good and it feels well made. And, shockingly, everything lines up. My only beef is with the movement. It’s current running 40+ seconds per day fast. I know these 6R’s can use some time to settle in (my SPB153 did) so I’m hoping smooths out after some time.
Cheers for reassuring me that I made the right call buying a king turtle! It ticks pretty much all of my boxes. Got it about a month ago for about USD350, and I love it. No issues with alignment etc, and it looks gorgeous. The movement is great so far-losing about 4 seconds a week! I’ll see how that goes once summer hits and it experiences more radical temperature variations (ie warm air to very cold water). I also like the silicon band, but for the moment I’ve swapped that out for a Zulu strap that suits it very well.
3 colours available btw. This watch is in the same movement+bracelet+finishing category as the Willard X. Anyway, usually they go for $800 and so will these ones.
I think this Seiko you talk about should be compared to the new Seiko Sumo that also got the 6R35 movement. Have you reviewed Seiko Sumo? Thanks for the info.
One has to wear this to appreciate why this piece costs so much. Seiko's magic cannot be appreciated by just looking at pictures no matter how well these are taken or doctored.
I LOVE the date window. It is perfect. The price is subjective as usual, nobody wants the prices to increase obviously but this is what Seiko is doing right now. The only thing we can do is to vote with our wallets. Edit: you’re seriously suggesting the handset is the same quality finishing as the king turtle? Get new glasses my man.
I love my Baby Alpinist SPB155. Way under a grand ($600- with discounts) for a beautiful Seiko that includes sapphire and the same 6R35 as this SPB313. No bezel to misalign either. Have to agree about divers though, and Orient is killing it in the affordable arena.
Love the intro!! As a long time Seiko fanboy, you are right!! 😂 I'm also an SKX owner, a Turtle owner, a Monster owner... and....you'll hate this a Seiko 5 owner!! I do have more Orients however.
Sad to watch what is a review of a watch, but you never got it on your hands. Sure there will be a "I was wrong episode". Just sad to give an oppinion without actually experiencing it...
Ok so you can get samurai, tuna, or monster for 300-500…even limited editions like save the ocean. The only difference in spec is sapphire vs hardlux crystal. And a lot of us prefer the look and feel of monster or samurai to the turtle. And lastly, in my opinion the best seiko middle ground is Sumo. You get a beautiful case silhouette sapphire crystal and 6R movement over 4R…and it sells for 650-900 depending on dial or edition!!
I got the SPB315 brand new for less than $550 in Japan last week. Couldn't believe my eye when I saw the price and I just had to buy it. Very nice watch!
In Hong Kong, after discounted only USD730. I've bought the other one with golden hands, steel bracelet & same specs. Mini turtle fits my small wrist so well.
All the Seiko watches I’m interested in are JDM-only. Also… put a solar cell under a dial that lets through a lot of light, add a capacitor, have them drive a thermocompensated quartz movement good to 10 seconds a year like the ETA PreciDrive models, and… you’ve somewhat inelegantly produced something that’s better than an automatic movement, by some measures.
Yeah their are some Seiko watches around the bush that are assembled in China that are cheaper, seems that Made in Japan is getting a higher price tag yet 400 or 500 dollars you get Made in China with 1 grand you get Made in Japan that is how the world works nowadays.
Never been a Seiko fan due to their QC issues(Bezel lining up and bracletes). Actually like the looks of many of them. And the fact that, espceially in the last 5yrs especially(could push it to 10yrs), there have been so many choices out there at better prices(as you mentioned).
That date window is perfect, it's there when you need it, and fades into the background when you don't. I'll take a 4-4:30 date over a ridiculous cyclops any day, and twice on Sunday.
I have kept holding back for a more expensive Seiko, but the SBDC167 has to be the most interesting, creative/dialed watch from anyone, in a long time. The recent MM reduced watches are fantastic.
I'm sorry there Jory the date window was not an afterthought because the date wheel itself would be completely custom for the date to appear straight on the dial. Having the date wheel at 3 or 6 o'clock with that date wheel would look very crooked.
I know you've reviewed some Timex watches that you liked. I recently picked up their 36mm MK1 Mechanical and think it is a great budget vintage field watch... The Seagull movement can't compete with Swiss movements, but mine is keeping time at +7Spd and is a great alternative to actual vintage military field watches with 35-36mm cases, 17 jewel movements, steel cases, and acrylic crystals. Timex is selling them at 1/2 price ($99) and an email address gets you another 15% off - so $85 for a mechanical field watch with vintage vibes/specs.
so what is limited edition? According to seiko when they say limited it couldbe 5K pieces. I consider limited edition under 900 units. any thoughts. prices, are getting ridiculous!
From what I’ve read, the date window was moved to the 4:30 position to keep the ISO rating. All numeral plots now need to be visible because ISO made a change regarding the “Divers” designation. If that is in fact the case it’s not an afterthought. I also think they should have left it off for symmetry reasons.
The watch looks good to me, including the date. I think they did a nice job to hide it yet have the info on the dial. My nitpick is the clasp has only 2 micro adjust positions. I would gladly give up the clasp expander and just have a clasp with 4 positions.
Bought a made in Japan SRPE39 King Turtle this week for $387 delivered. First Seiko this year and bought a newer Monster last year. I find myself buying mostly Seiko homages as they are similar in quality to the King Turtle for less than $150 each. Even Islander homages are less than the Seikos. Higher prices and continuing QC issues have hurt Seiko.
Like every established brand, part of cost is attributed to "branding" , history, R&D and design which the homages lack. I find seikos are better values overall, they barely lose any value, are original/iconic designs and have collectibility which the homages lack. Islanders are nearly same price. The homages don't Incur cost of setting up factories to design/make movements, dont spend $$ to advertise or popularize the design, are sold direct with no distribution cost do to much smaller scale of sales. They outsource , You can sell a seiko for nearly same, sometimes more, or sometimes multiples of purchase price while homages tank and never retain/gain value
I recently got the only one Seiko model that has been on my radar for super long, the Seiko Prospex street series 533. That thing is a best, Solar quartz, diver with 200m, aligned bezel. Just love the overall looks and functionality of it and at the price of 260SGD, can’t fault it! Guess I’m lucky on that one! 😆
So, is T3's issue that the date is at the 4:30 position or that it is round and oriented in an upright fashion? I only ask because in a previous video (IIRC about the Seiko 5 GMT) T3 actually recommended getting a SUN065 and mentioned the date complication (which is at the 4:30 position). I have a SUN023 and love the watch and I like having the date complication in the 4:30 spot; the only real difference is the window is square and the numbers have not been reoriented.
I picked up the black dial on the rubber for less than $700 new and had an olongapo band made for it. For that price I don't think its bad. I would have a hard time paying 1K. I like the date window though and don't wear watches without a date function. I had a blackbay 58 for about a year and didn't realize how often I check the date on my watch until it wasn't there.
I bought a Seiko Quartz type II with a sweet ice frost dial and original bracelet for 150 dollars and in nice condition I guess this is a really nice option considering the history of this watch💪
What big more dress style watch would you recommend? I have an 8.25" wrist and currently only have an Orient Kamasu and is really the smallest I can go, but I would like my second to be either a dress watch or a chronograph. I mean I like the dive watch look but isn't really the best option all the time.
What about a flirger? Pair it with a nice strap and you gave an elegant type a. I like Dekla for that and you can choose the size, although for 8" I'd go for a 45mm, and. . . It's under a 1,000 USD. Cheers
@@PabloMontero1976 that's a pretty good looking watch and that style of watch isn't bad. My issue is that I like the look of a lot of the more dress style watches like a Rolex Date Datejust since its kind of dress without being a dress watch. I very much can't afford a Rolex though and unfortunately stuff like that is around 38mm. Orient actuality made a day date that I really like, and you can get it for $300-$500, but again it's unfortunately 38mm which would just look tiny on my arm.
I like the Seiko diver watches ,,,, I get mine on eBay for less than $50 ,,, how they're that price ,,, I have no idea ,,, but when the case is opened , I it shows Seiko stamped everywhere it should ,,, I always replace the bands because my wrists are unfortunately GIGANTIC !!! I have to go with NATO straps ,,, and they're just long enough !!!! I've started getting into Russian watches ,,,,, Rsketa is a favorite ,,,, I've never paid more than $20 for one ,,,,, I love the channel !!! I don't always agree with everything that's said ,,,, but I'm always learning something new !!!! Thanks so much for all that you do !!!!!!
I couldn't agree more; every Seiko I'm remotely interested in for build quality is $1000÷! Except...I just bought a preowned PADI turtle in mint from my local watch shop and I love it. He had it for $350, got it for $200! Why spend $1000???
I can't get what's the scandal about prices of Seiko about. Japan isn't cheaper than Swiss, and similar spec Longines/Mido/Tissot with standard ETA movement inside costs the same or more. Also think about the 1st Black Bay with the ETA at 2.5k, or Breitling, again with ETA inside. It's not that I wouldn't like to have same specs for cheaper but if Seiko wants to put itself on the same level of Swiss brands, in our times, it means to also be perceived as valuable and therefore put themselves in the same price range as Swiss brands.
You make some good points. I too dislike that date window but only for the way it was designed, The position is fine for me. I tend to prefer no date watches as they tend to have a cleaner look. Thanks for upload.
I agree with most of what you have said but the king turtle is 45mm dia. Just too big. Date window is not that bad as the background colour matches the dial. But yes it is probably over priced.
The new Seiko reissues are not a horrible deal at 800-1000 dollars. They occasionally do go on sale for that, but they retail here in Sweden around 1300-1500dollars. Tax included of course. The spb, the mm200 and Willard reissues are good watches especially at a discount. But they are not great value like Swatch group watches. They're kinda what like tag Heuer and Breitling are to the entry level premium market. They're what you buy because you love it, not becusee it's good value.
I have two Orients. The Orient Ray 2 is fine. But, I really like the Orient RA-ACOK01B10B ("Sport Triton"). At $210 - $220 with its very nice looks (my opinion); great lume; super smooth bezel; large and smooth screw down crown; hacking; in-house movement; Sapphire crystal; anti-reflective coating; 200 meters (non- ISO); good looking bracket (but tin sounding); and a nice clasp, I think it beats most Seikos up to about $500. And, it holds its own against $700ish Seikos.
Yep agree with the Seiko reference. My Seiko Presage limited Arita Porcelian surely is a wee bit over $1k. But just as nice and better priced than a Grand Seiko IMO.
I actually like 4/4:30 o'clock date applications if they're colour matched. That's the only disagreement I have with T3 but the date is subjective. I love your content T3 keep going
Here's a wrench to throw at this theory. Seiko SRPH97J1 that came out a few months ago. Limited to 8000 and still less than $600 at the moment. 🤜🤛 Probably my favorite watch this year, next to the jazz master revision anyways.
It's kinda meh in person, that's the issue with the medium high end Seikos like the mm200 and the presage models, they're not badly finished by any means but they're not grand Seiko for like 1/3rd or 1/4th of the price. For me the grand Seiko is worth that much more so I'd save up and go for the grand Seiko quartz GMT or buy something with a sw300 or 330 like the the Christopher ward C63 sealander GMT.
Agreed. Dare i say I'm good with my SKX011J. 200 meter diver with killer lume and that retro style without trying for it. It IS cool. No hacking my only gripe but neither does a 20k (45k) Aquanaut. I'd buy a King Seiko red but that's all that's tempting me.
Totally agree with you. Been saying the same thing to my friends . Any seiko that looks good is either limited and or over $1000 and I do not care to spend that on a seiko. For me seiko was always a fantastic brand for under $500 tool watches
Definitely meant to say “4 o’clock crown.” Oh well, I’m still learning how to tell analogue time. 🤷♂️
Hahhaha. I wanted to pick on you for that but you are right 24/7 so there was no point in even bringing it up! Love the content! King turtle is definitely on my radar.
They're really close
You should watch Megamind! It's actually really good!
Your not always right
Agree to disagree. I love the placement, shape, and size of the date window. And the King Turtle is not a perfect substitute for this watch-it's WAY bigger and chunkier. For someone like me, it's not appealing. This watch, however, is a wonderful size and a much nicer design.
I 100% agree. King Seiko is only appealing in price but not size. These new 317 are perfect
Ya, it's pretty great. Love having a date window on all my watches since I end up forgetting all the time while at work. Super helpful. The placement is great, out of the way. I don't want some fancy cutout bezel or something for a watch like this. I don't have bad eye genetics so I can see it fine being small. Having a 6.5" flat wrist, this is pretty much the perfect size case also. Probably going to pick one of these up for $800 or so soon(SPB317, black dial). Certainly wouldn't pay $1100 for it though.
Btw, the giant abomination day-date cyclops on the waffle dial king turtles just kill me. Feels like it takes up half the dial. Disgusting. I'm not big on day functions or cyclops though. Really just uglifies a watch.
Just picked up the blue birch version for £600 from a brick and mortar store 😁
I don’t have this watch but that date window is perfect. Keeps the symmetry alive and the circle gives me a nautical water drop vibe. Also, Seiko lined the date wheel up with all of the other text. This might be the best date I’ve seen.
100% agree. I love the date placement. It stays out of the way until you need it. Also, I think this one is a bit smaller that a turtle.
The white dial is handsome. I love the execution of the date window
I'm just gonna say it. I like that date complication.
One of the most well respected luxury diver watches on the market (Blancpain Fifty Fathoms) has a date at the 4:30 position. Truely I would argue that seiko executed the date better than a $18K watch because it is upright. I know everyone is allowed to have opinions, and I agree that traditionally dates at this location are a “no-no” but I believe it is done well and I appreciate that it is there. Just got my guilted variant and it is beautiful. Much better than my guilted turtle that I absolutely loved.
Agreed
If you put a date at 4:30, at least make it proud. That super tiny circular window is awful imo.
Whats the problem ?
There are several options in the 300-500 USD range within the Seiko offering. For some reason Seiko are expected to give away watches for nothing. Other brands could benefit from the same scrutiny as Seiko gets.
It's because seiko is the best constantly compared to even more expensive watches but those prices are justified go figure I'd say all watches are overpriced
@@maxp5422 ya , we bitch about seiko pricing but are completely ok with Tudor pricing... I have a bb58 and a 143.. The bb58 is not 4k better than the 143.
I recently picked up a NEW Samurai, which seemed to fill the right boxes. Divers 200 mt, beautiful very Japanese looking case, large knurled crown, drilled lugs, nice finish etc. $300-$400.
Very happy with it and as an added bonus, the chapter ring is perfectly aligned. :)
You need to send that one back in. It's clearly a defective model that should never have left the factory if it's aligned
@@jamesR1990 😂
@@jamesR1990 i also recently picked up a base Samurai with no alignment issues. I was entirely not expecting it.
I have it too! It's s spec monster and even has drilled lugs for under $400 new
@@jamesR1990 you had me worried there.
I'm wearing the SPB317 right now, with the rubber strapped swapped out for the braclet from the green dial Tortoise. It's a lovely watch, carries the vintage looks and vibes of the original it's based on. Yeah, it's more expensive than a typical turtle. The date window isn't hardly noticeable, tbh. But the sublty domed saphire crystal, the slightly different brushed shoulders etc, make it look stunning.
You used to be able to get a PADI certified, Prospex Diver, threaded crown, 120 click bezel, 4 o’clock crown and a datebwindow that isn’t hideous and in a stupid position for like $300. Now, that same watch, with the addition of a sapphire crystal is $500-600 easy. They’re using the quality and popularity of GS to pull their once affordable watches into these ridiculous prices.
I’d like to point out that the placement of the date window isn’t an afterthought. For the watch to be a certified ISO diver there has to be a lumed piece at 3 o’clock. So instead of trying to shoe-horn a tiny lumed marker in between the date and edge of the dial (which they’ve done before on other models) they just moved it altogether.
The SKX managed it just fine.
@@thetimeteller so this is a fairly newer regulation to have the lume at 3 o’clock, it wasn’t like that when the SKX was released. But a cool thing about moving the date window is that when you are looking at the watch under lume you get a symmetrical appearance, like having a no date. 👍🏻
@@thetimeteller The SKX doesn't meet the current ISO regulations...one more strike against the most overhyped watch on the internet.
@@Furniture121 you will get banned from the internet for speaking the truth.
@@thetimeteller proof you don’t know what you’re talking about
At least the date wheel matches the dial.
I like this piece a lot. Seiko making watches all over the price range is something people will need to get used to.
I bet that for $1,200 the bezel does not line up with the 12 o'clock marker either. That's a Seiko exclusive and badge of honor.
You are correct my friend. If the bezel was actually aligned, I’d have to question if you have an authentic Seiko.
Just got mine and the bezel is spot on. Doesn’t have any back play like the turtles either
I just returned my Seiko because the bezel was misaligned.
I really can't understand how that has become like a sad common occurrence.
It's a pretty unforgivable thing to miss and makes you wonder if they even have a QC process
That's over stated just seiko hate if you do get one with qc issues just exchange it
This looks so much better than the KT - it looks so much more refined. KT is indeed a value prop but this (and a lot of the other Seiko £1k stuff) is simply better - slightly better finishing, slightly better bracelet, slightly better crystal, dia shield treated, better movement, better aesthetics. That’s a lot of slightly betters that add up to a better watch - which shockingly is more expensive.
Yes compared to Seiko divers from mid 2010s this isn’t a great value prop. Compared to entry level Swiss stuff in same price bracket and a bit above it’s a killer value proposition.
In todays market these seikos are fairly priced imho.
Yeah. It’s like all the people complaining that seiko 5s are super expensive now…those retailed at 195 25 years ago. 300 bucks for a new seiko 5 is really good. 200 bucks from the 90s is 450 dollars today…people just like to complain and don’t like to think or do research
@@mariog7213 people like Jory harking back to the glory value days of Seiko in early 2000s conveniently gloss over that these new $1k prospex divers are significantly more up market in look and feel than what Seiko used to offer. They have made moves to provide higher quality watches - which these are - and are pricing them accordingly. And again against the opposition at $1-1.5K Seiko still kills.
@@mariog7213 people like Jory harking back to the glory value days of Seiko in early 2000s conveniently gloss over that these new $1k prospex divers are significantly more up market in look and feel than what Seiko used to offer. They have made moves to provide higher quality watches - which these are - and are pricing them accordingly. And again against the opposition at $1-1.5K Seiko still kills.
I like where the date is. It doesn’t distract from the symmetry, and that’s the big complaint about date windows at 3:00.
Seiko fan here, love my grenade to bits, and had to get the all blacked out king turtle version as well, and both are aligned perfectly, but alignment problems start when the pip(or the triangle that contains the pip on the bezel)the isn’t even centered, take a look at the pip inside the upside down triangle on the bezel in the vid. For 500 the pip should be in the center, let alone 1100.
This is actually a really nice watch once you actually get it in your hands and put it on, you can’t help but think “damn, that looks good.” I picked up the spb313 and don’t regret it one bit. The white dial is precise and beautiful. The date window is brilliant, it’s there when you want it and not there when you don’t. It’s small enough and in a place your eyes aren’t trained to go to so it reads like a no date watch. I don’t think a king turtle is a great alternative to this one as they are way chunkier. I feel like if you’re already seeing it as I do and considering buying it and then went for the king turtle… you’re going to regret it.
Well, seeing in how I’ve reviewed both IN THE FLESH and come to a different conclusion than yourself… perhaps you spoke too soon?
I think you are the only one who doesn't like the date window. :)
I recently entered the hobby and was looking to get a Seiko diver to celebrate a new job. I instead chose an Orient and a Vostok and I am very happy with my purchases.
If you like Seikos, consider Signum, Helm or Zelos instead. Far better options with great lume and build quality.
About three years ago, I got a promotional deal through JomaShop for the Orient Kamasu for well under $300. Like all divers (no matter who makes it), it's too big for my tiny little 6.3" wrist (don't laugh, I can clean my own garbage disposal!). It has a saphire crystal, 200m water resistance, Day/Date complication, and it gains about 6 to 8 seconds a day. All for about $900 less.
I picked up an SPB317 for $740 new from an AD. I’ve had it for two weeks now. Overall, I like it. It’s well finished, it looks good and it feels well made. And, shockingly, everything lines up. My only beef is with the movement. It’s current running 40+ seconds per day fast. I know these 6R’s can use some time to settle in (my SPB153 did) so I’m hoping smooths out after some time.
Cheers for reassuring me that I made the right call buying a king turtle! It ticks pretty much all of my boxes.
Got it about a month ago for about USD350, and I love it.
No issues with alignment etc, and it looks gorgeous. The movement is great so far-losing about 4 seconds a week! I’ll see how that goes once summer hits and it experiences more radical temperature variations (ie warm air to very cold water).
I also like the silicon band, but for the moment I’ve swapped that out for a Zulu strap that suits it very well.
Orient is what Seiko was value and quality Seiko is getting to expensive, love the vids keep up the good work!
or your not making enough.... its called inflation mate
i don't get it- why can't they put
the crown at 4 o'clock precisely??
it really bugs be. or is it for GS only??
3 colours available btw. This watch is in the same movement+bracelet+finishing category as the Willard X. Anyway, usually they go for $800 and so will these ones.
I think this Seiko you talk about should be compared to the new Seiko Sumo that also got the 6R35 movement. Have you reviewed Seiko Sumo?
Thanks for the info.
One has to wear this to appreciate why this piece costs so much. Seiko's magic cannot be appreciated by just looking at pictures no matter how well these are taken or doctored.
hard to justify the price when you get a very inaccurate movement
Still want the SPB 143, that's a modern Seiko that is worth around $900-1200 range. It uses hardened steel.
I LOVE the date window. It is perfect. The price is subjective as usual, nobody wants the prices to increase obviously but this is what Seiko is doing right now. The only thing we can do is to vote with our wallets. Edit: you’re seriously suggesting the handset is the same quality finishing as the king turtle? Get new glasses my man.
I don’t like the date window but that black and gold combo might win me over
I love my Baby Alpinist SPB155. Way under a grand ($600- with discounts) for a beautiful Seiko that includes sapphire and the same 6R35 as this SPB313. No bezel to misalign either. Have to agree about divers though, and Orient is killing it in the affordable arena.
Love the intro!! As a long time Seiko fanboy, you are right!! 😂 I'm also an SKX owner, a Turtle owner, a Monster owner... and....you'll hate this a Seiko 5 owner!! I do have more Orients however.
4:56 what sort of 3s are you smoking?
Sad to watch what is a review of a watch, but you never got it on your hands. Sure there will be a "I was wrong episode". Just sad to give an oppinion without actually experiencing it...
Ok so you can get samurai, tuna, or monster for 300-500…even limited editions like save the ocean. The only difference in spec is sapphire vs hardlux crystal. And a lot of us prefer the look and feel of monster or samurai to the turtle. And lastly, in my opinion the best seiko middle ground is Sumo. You get a beautiful case silhouette sapphire crystal and 6R movement over 4R…and it sells for 650-900 depending on dial or edition!!
@TheTimeTeller on Telegram scam someone else fool
Yeah man. When I see a new seiko with sapphire and milled clasp, I automatically think minimum 1k.
I got the SPB315 brand new for less than $550 in Japan last week. Couldn't believe my eye when I saw the price and I just had to buy it. Very nice watch!
In Hong Kong, after discounted only USD730.
I've bought the other one with golden hands, steel bracelet & same specs.
Mini turtle fits my small wrist so well.
Very funny video; thank you. I think the date window looks great.
All the Seiko watches I’m interested in are JDM-only.
Also… put a solar cell under a dial that lets through a lot of light, add a capacitor, have them drive a thermocompensated quartz movement good to 10 seconds a year like the ETA PreciDrive models, and… you’ve somewhat inelegantly produced something that’s better than an automatic movement, by some measures.
Yeah their are some Seiko watches around the bush that are assembled in China that are cheaper, seems that Made in Japan is getting a higher price tag yet 400 or 500 dollars you get Made in China with 1 grand you get Made in Japan that is how the world works nowadays.
Best seiko tool diver I own the 313 with an uncle straps senators and it’s the most comfortable diver I own.
I would say that entry-level DIVE watch collectors should forget about Seiko, but they do still offer a lot of other entry-level watches.
Never been a Seiko fan due to their QC issues(Bezel lining up and bracletes). Actually like the looks of many of them.
And the fact that, espceially in the last 5yrs especially(could push it to 10yrs), there have been so many choices out there at better prices(as you mentioned).
I bought an American-made 37mm Daytona homage for $110. And it's extremely well done. Seiko KMA.
That date window is perfect, it's there when you need it, and fades into the background when you don't. I'll take a 4-4:30 date over a ridiculous cyclops any day, and twice on Sunday.
I have kept holding back for a more expensive Seiko, but the SBDC167 has to be the most interesting, creative/dialed watch from anyone, in a long time. The recent MM reduced watches are fantastic.
Really enjoying the podcast.👍
Another great video my man 👏
Bought the SPB317 in Hong Kong for US$670 after discount. SPB143 brand new are also around $850.
Who pays retail for Seiko?
i like the date window... more subtle without being smaller than if it was framed
I'm sorry there Jory the date window was not an afterthought because the date wheel itself would be completely custom for the date to appear straight on the dial. Having the date wheel at 3 or 6 o'clock with that date wheel would look very crooked.
I know you've reviewed some Timex watches that you liked. I recently picked up their 36mm MK1 Mechanical and think it is a great budget vintage field watch... The Seagull movement can't compete with Swiss movements, but mine is keeping time at +7Spd and is a great alternative to actual vintage military field watches with 35-36mm cases, 17 jewel movements, steel cases, and acrylic crystals. Timex is selling them at 1/2 price ($99) and an email address gets you another 15% off - so $85 for a mechanical field watch with vintage vibes/specs.
Like a Boss T3!!! 💪💪💪
so what is limited edition? According to seiko when they say limited it couldbe 5K pieces. I consider limited edition under 900 units. any thoughts. prices, are getting ridiculous!
Hi Jory,
I have a question: why isn’t Seiko doing an automatic diver with no date? Is there a particular reason for that?
Thanks
I’m still planning on buying an srpe this year
You can get this for 600 dollars, deal or no deal?
Just bought a SARY053 for normal price ($350) off a grey market seller on ebay (which Ive done before without issues) should I be worried??????
From what I’ve read, the date window was moved to the 4:30 position to keep the ISO rating. All numeral plots now need to be visible because ISO made a change regarding the “Divers” designation. If that is in fact the case it’s not an afterthought. I also think they should have left it off for symmetry reasons.
Dynamic content, keep it coming
The watch looks good to me, including the date. I think they did a nice job to hide it yet have the info on the dial. My nitpick is the clasp has only 2 micro adjust positions. I would gladly give up the clasp expander and just have a clasp with 4 positions.
Ok, so how do you feel about the Seiko 5 spdr63 ?
Its probably not as beloved as the SKX but its below 300$ with great lume and a decent dial.
Bought a made in Japan SRPE39 King Turtle this week for $387 delivered. First Seiko this year and bought a newer Monster last year. I find myself buying mostly Seiko homages as they are similar in quality to the King Turtle for less than $150 each. Even Islander homages are less than the Seikos. Higher prices and continuing QC issues have hurt Seiko.
Like every established brand, part of cost is attributed to "branding" , history, R&D and design which the homages lack. I find seikos are better values overall, they barely lose any value, are original/iconic designs and have collectibility which the homages lack. Islanders are nearly same price. The homages don't Incur cost of setting up factories to design/make movements, dont spend $$ to advertise or popularize the design, are sold direct with no distribution cost do to much smaller scale of sales. They outsource ,
You can sell a seiko for nearly same, sometimes more, or sometimes multiples of purchase price while homages tank and never retain/gain value
Date window is so cool man. Looks very different and vintage.
I recently got the only one Seiko model that has been on my radar for super long, the Seiko Prospex street series 533. That thing is a best, Solar quartz, diver with 200m, aligned bezel. Just love the overall looks and functionality of it and at the price of 260SGD, can’t fault it! Guess I’m lucky on that one! 😆
So, is T3's issue that the date is at the 4:30 position or that it is round and oriented in an upright fashion? I only ask because in a previous video (IIRC about the Seiko 5 GMT) T3 actually recommended getting a SUN065 and mentioned the date complication (which is at the 4:30 position). I have a SUN023 and love the watch and I like having the date complication in the 4:30 spot; the only real difference is the window is square and the numbers have not been reoriented.
I picked up the black dial on the rubber for less than $700 new and had an olongapo band made for it. For that price I don't think its bad. I would have a hard time paying 1K. I like the date window though and don't wear watches without a date function. I had a blackbay 58 for about a year and didn't realize how often I check the date on my watch until it wasn't there.
I bought my heavily preowned Seiko Turtle for $290 on eBay. I absolutely love it.
I bought a Seiko Quartz type II with a sweet ice frost dial and original bracelet for 150 dollars and in nice condition
I guess this is a really nice option considering the history of this watch💪
What big more dress style watch would you recommend? I have an 8.25" wrist and currently only have an Orient Kamasu and is really the smallest I can go, but I would like my second to be either a dress watch or a chronograph. I mean I like the dive watch look but isn't really the best option all the time.
What about a flirger? Pair it with a nice strap and you gave an elegant type a. I like Dekla for that and you can choose the size, although for 8" I'd go for a 45mm, and. . . It's under a 1,000 USD. Cheers
@@PabloMontero1976 that's a pretty good looking watch and that style of watch isn't bad. My issue is that I like the look of a lot of the more dress style watches like a Rolex Date Datejust since its kind of dress without being a dress watch. I very much can't afford a Rolex though and unfortunately stuff like that is around 38mm. Orient actuality made a day date that I really like, and you can get it for $300-$500, but again it's unfortunately 38mm which would just look tiny on my arm.
Agree with you 100% Jory. I'm looking at the Dark Manta Turtle on my wrist as I type this response!
Among all reissue I only like the SLA033J other than that the casebacks details are all printed rather than being engrave.
My skx007k was similar to that but crown and date at 3 o'clock mint condition ex display box papers and even the seiko bag and I love it.👌😃👍
I like the Seiko diver watches ,,,, I get mine on eBay for less than $50 ,,, how they're that price ,,, I have no idea ,,, but when the case is opened , I it shows Seiko stamped everywhere it should ,,, I always replace the bands because my wrists are unfortunately GIGANTIC !!!
I have to go with NATO straps ,,, and they're just long enough !!!!
I've started getting into Russian watches ,,,,, Rsketa is a favorite ,,,, I've never paid more than $20 for one ,,,,,
I love the channel !!!
I don't always agree with everything that's said ,,,, but I'm always learning something new !!!!
Thanks so much for all that you do !!!!!!
Ooops, it's a 4 o'clock crown, not 3 o'clock.
Valid rant though Jory.
My bad. Lol I meant 4 o’clock and I wish the DATE was at 3 o’clock.
I agree, they are getting a bit silly with pricing in my humble opinion
I’ve tried looking at Seiko and I agree they don’t get very interesting under $500. That new Ocean blue one looks great for $1200
I couldn't agree more; every Seiko I'm remotely interested in for build quality is $1000÷! Except...I just bought a preowned PADI turtle in mint from my local watch shop and I love it. He had it for $350, got it for $200! Why spend $1000???
I can't get what's the scandal about prices of Seiko about. Japan isn't cheaper than Swiss, and similar spec Longines/Mido/Tissot with standard ETA movement inside costs the same or more. Also think about the 1st Black Bay with the ETA at 2.5k, or Breitling, again with ETA inside.
It's not that I wouldn't like to have same specs for cheaper but if Seiko wants to put itself on the same level of Swiss brands, in our times, it means to also be perceived as valuable and therefore put themselves in the same price range as Swiss brands.
I managed to snag this watch for 600 bucks, love it and the date window disappears.
This is the first time I totally agree with you Big J.
You are absolutely right nowadays people just want to complain about anything seiko is just greedy nowadays pricing slightly better SKXs for over $500
Bonus pick: the seiko metronome💚💚💚💚
You make some good points. I too dislike that date window but only for the way it was designed, The position is fine for me. I tend to prefer no date watches as they tend to have a cleaner look. Thanks for upload.
I agree with most of what you have said but the king turtle is 45mm dia. Just too big. Date window is not that bad as the background colour matches the dial. But yes it is probably over priced.
The new Seiko reissues are not a horrible deal at 800-1000 dollars. They occasionally do go on sale for that, but they retail here in Sweden around 1300-1500dollars. Tax included of course. The spb, the mm200 and Willard reissues are good watches especially at a discount. But they are not great value like Swatch group watches. They're kinda what like tag Heuer and Breitling are to the entry level premium market. They're what you buy because you love it, not becusee it's good value.
This will be my next grail watch
I would love to see a review of the Seiko SNE589. Curious if you think it's a good value or not.
idk man I normally hate 4ish oclock dates but that one's not bad
I have two Orients. The Orient Ray 2 is fine. But, I really like the Orient RA-ACOK01B10B ("Sport Triton"). At $210 - $220 with its very nice looks (my opinion); great lume; super smooth bezel; large and smooth screw down crown; hacking; in-house movement;
Sapphire crystal; anti-reflective coating; 200 meters (non- ISO); good looking bracket (but tin sounding); and a nice clasp, I think it beats most Seikos up to about $500. And, it holds its own against $700ish Seikos.
Yep agree with the Seiko reference. My Seiko Presage limited Arita Porcelian surely is a wee bit over $1k. But just as nice and better priced than a Grand Seiko IMO.
Gnomon has them on sale for 100 bucks off right now
Just get both the SPB and king turtle. Both serve different purpose.
Isn’t the alpinist still sitting around 750? Gosh I’ve wanted one since they were 450
The king is 45mm though right?
If it ain't a G-Shock, Jory ain't interested. As is tradition
I actually like 4/4:30 o'clock date applications if they're colour matched. That's the only disagreement I have with T3 but the date is subjective. I love your content T3 keep going
Here's a wrench to throw at this theory. Seiko SRPH97J1 that came out a few months ago. Limited to 8000 and still less than $600 at the moment. 🤜🤛 Probably my favorite watch this year, next to the jazz master revision anyways.
I’ve been lusting after the Sharp Edge GMT recently! Gone are the days of the SARB and SARY series, not as good with entry level stuff nowadays.
It's kinda meh in person, that's the issue with the medium high end Seikos like the mm200 and the presage models, they're not badly finished by any means but they're not grand Seiko for like 1/3rd or 1/4th of the price. For me the grand Seiko is worth that much more so I'd save up and go for the grand Seiko quartz GMT or buy something with a sw300 or 330 like the the Christopher ward C63 sealander GMT.
Bought the sarx075 for my 30th and I have been more than happy with it. If you can find a good deal I don't think the gmt is a bad choice.
Agreed. Dare i say I'm good with my SKX011J. 200 meter diver with killer lume and that retro style without trying for it. It IS cool. No hacking my only gripe but neither does a 20k (45k) Aquanaut. I'd buy a King Seiko red but that's all that's tempting me.
Totally agree with you. Been saying the same thing to my friends . Any seiko that looks good is either limited and or over $1000 and I do not care to spend that on a seiko. For me seiko was always a fantastic brand for under $500 tool watches