I have the 556i with blue dial and blue leather strap. Love the simple dial with no date, solid build quality, perfect size at 38.5mm, comfortable strap and gains just 1 sec per day which is better than my Rolex Explorer at +2 secs a day! Couldn't ask for more really.
Not sure how you'd define a luxury watch but as an owner of the very watch you are reviewing, I believe this watch is a total package in terms of the movement, fit and finish and overall quality. I've been eying on IWC Mark series, which costs almost twice as much. Even compared with those, I don't think that Sinn 556 lacks in anyways in my humble opinion. Sinn 556 also stands out because its design is just timeless; I don't see myself getting tired of it. Another great review! Thanks!!
It's not a luxury piece, it is a solid watch with a solid Swiss movement (ETA2824) within a well designed case. In reality the Sinn is a great tool watch, with 200 metre water resistance, good A/R and lugs holes which facilitate ease of strap changes. The Mark XV series from IWC is a luxury watch. Yes, they are similar pieces yet, holding them both in you hands the difference is apparent. You are entitled to any opinion you chose however, in this case, you're wrong.
If this is a matter of opinion, how can I be wrong??? Anyways, thanks for taking the time to reply. IWC is definitely sexier but I just cannot justify the price difference. In the end, that what it comes down to. Cheers!
Great review. Spot on about Sinn's price and quality and where it could sit in both a watch collection that has a lot of very high-end timepieces as well as a more modest lower budget conscious watch collection.
Love Sinn watches, and another GREAT review! My only critique of this watch, or its anniversary cousin, is the lack of a different color for 12 on the lume. Otherwise, I think they're amazing. I go back and forth on if I like this bracelet or the h-link better - the blue dial vs the grey. Anyway, congrats on another sweet watch!
I somewhat disagree with your statement that when you buy a Sinn, you're not paying for the name. That may have been true around 4 - 5 years ago, when you could pick up a 556 for around £650. But Sinns annoying habitual habit of aggressively increasing their prices year after year, now means that the same watch now costs nearly double that. That are cashing in on the greater brand awareness that social media and electronic media platforms have brought them and it slightly stinks. To my mind, the new Damasko DS30 offers more bang for your book and I'm glad that a company now offers a true (better value) rival to the 556.
Dennis Kwok exactly I like the 556a but I looked into and discovered it used to be a lot cheaper . the special edition one is really nice but I'm not paying an extra £300 for a red second hand ! that's just ridiculous
Dennis, sounds like you have other brands in mind. Can you recommend me a brand that is better value than Sinn? A brand that we are not paying for the brand?
These in depth reviews are awesome. Would love to see the lug to lug measurements provided as well. Those are just as important to how the watch fits a wrist as the diameter size.
Nice review, think you covered the watch excepting total length (it's 45mm). I'm sold, really want the 556iB no date. Anyway my only concern is the lack of a dealer network within North America. Aware there is an online presence for the NA market yet it would be nice to have representation for the Canadian market. Regardless, it's a piece that sings to me, guessing the only issue is dealing with FedEx and their exorbitant fees for customs clearance.
Finally obtained a blue Sinn 556. They are quite difficult to find lately. I didn't get it on watchbuys but I did want to give them my business but I ended up getting it for a much better price than they offer. Walked away with mine new in box for a little over 1100
Great review. I like the discrete seconds hand on the blue dial version but wish the 12 o'clock indice was made a hair wider. Prefer the bracelet of the black dial (strap for me if blue), but not fond of the date window. Many thanks
True enough! I had a Stowa in the past but I was always so concerned about damaging it I decided to sell it. I figure if I'm worried about damaging it, I probably can't REALLY afford it.
Joseph Cheng I've had my eye on that piece for a while, hopefully I'll eventually get one in to review. I do have an overlooked 556 alternative, I'll be reviewing in the future though, thanks
just got the archimede outdoor anti-mag and it is every bit as good as the sinn. same movement, hardened propietary steel case, unique german styling for several hunderd dollars less
I’ve had my eye on this watch since first discovering it here on your channel a few months ago. I was ready to pull the trigger when it went out of stock on Watchbuys. I saw yesterday, 11/15/18 that it was back in stock and ordered one! I know the quality is awesome because I already own the 556 I with the black dial and H-link bracelet. I look forward to wearing this beauty. I was looking at a Rolex OP 39 in blue, and had one in my hand at an AD, but I just didn’t see the Rolex being worth an extra $4500 over the Sinn. (I think I’m going to get the Rolex in a couple years anyway.)
Did you get your two 556s from a Watchbuys road show or did you purchase them through their website? Also, I'm curious why you chose the same watch but with different dial variants. Please share why. Thanks! Great video!
Redbirdsfan1970 they don't sell watches at the roadshows, I purchased these through their site. I purchased 2 different 556's because, well they're different enough for me to enjoy them both
@AverageBros Great video Mark, I really enjoyed watching as always! I have a few questions: 1) Is the finish of the case slightly different to that of the end link of the bracelet? 2) Which bracelet did you find more comfortable (H-Link or 5-Link)? Are there any pros and cons that you have realised over the time you had the two? Looking forward to hearing back from you when you have a minute, keep up the good work!
1) Finish is consistent 2) Tough to say which is objectively more comfortable, planning to do an in depth comparison between H-Link and Fine-Link for those choosing between the two though
Wow thanks for the quick reply Mark, much appreciated. Maybe the disparity that I think I was seeing between lugs and end link was circular brushing on case and longitudinal on bracelet? Is that the case? I look forward to that video, and of course I understand that with comfort comes a large portion of subjectivity. Would you be willing to say which you found more comfortable out of the two? I'll still watch the video, promise!
Just got a 556i from watchbuys and the watch has a misaligned dial they claim is within tolerance and Sinn said the same thing to me, absolute crap quality control for a $1400 watch. There is a reason why tons of them are for sale in the aftermarket. BUYER BEWARE!
I was seriously considering this as my first foray into luxury watches but in the end I slightly blew my budget and went for the Ball engineer M Marvelight. A great watch nonetheless I think, and you have earned a new subscriber 👍🏻
I like the Sinn 556 line, but way overpriced for what you get. I bought the 556a and sent it back... instantly knew it wasn't the watch for me... nice watch, but nothing special. I think the Hamilton Field Khaki for 1/3 price does the same as the Sinn 556. I just couldn't get past that.
I think the Sinn had better finishing, but it was nothing special. However, Hamilton has a much better clasp than Sinn. Sinn's bracelet clasp (on the H-link bracelet) is horrible and feels cheap and dated. I would recommend the Sinn 104 or step up to a Sinn 857 or 757... but then you are getting up to Omega Seamaster Professional price (Jomashop sells them for $2800).
Stop ! Stop making reviews of this watch ... Now the price will just keep increasing , I've heard it used to be about 700 USD now you can't get a one under a 1,000 USD ?!
Your exaggerated "ummms" make your presentation a little difficult to listen to. Just trying to be honest and helpful. You can definitely work on reducing those, or at least how pronounced they sound.
![Average Bros [Mark Alamares]](http://yt3.ggpht.com/AMTyfBoS_HGUS5NeMIdml3FQHYPLCvE10yYPfvjGSZRfNEkgmgSJlVqPFEQ4yky_fTnRrnqQ=s48-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj)
I have the 556i with blue dial and blue leather strap. Love the simple dial with no date, solid build quality, perfect size at 38.5mm, comfortable strap and gains just 1 sec per day which is better than my Rolex Explorer at +2 secs a day! Couldn't ask for more really.
Thanks for the video! Really tempted by one of those 556A on the original bracelet......
Hellooooooooooo.
Not sure how you'd define a luxury watch but as an owner of the very watch you are reviewing, I believe this watch is a total package in terms of the movement, fit and finish and overall quality. I've been eying on IWC Mark series, which costs almost twice as much. Even compared with those, I don't think that Sinn 556 lacks in anyways in my humble opinion. Sinn 556 also stands out because its design is just timeless; I don't see myself getting tired of it. Another great review! Thanks!!
It's not a luxury piece, it is a solid watch with a solid Swiss movement (ETA2824) within a well designed case. In reality the Sinn is a great tool watch, with 200 metre water resistance, good A/R and lugs holes which facilitate ease of strap changes. The Mark XV series from IWC is a luxury watch. Yes, they are similar pieces yet, holding them both in you hands the difference is apparent. You are entitled to any opinion you chose however, in this case, you're wrong.
If this is a matter of opinion, how can I be wrong??? Anyways, thanks for taking the time to reply. IWC is definitely sexier but I just cannot justify the price difference. In the end, that what it comes down to. Cheers!
Frasito Poquito So he’s entitled to his opinion yet he’s also wrong? You, sir, are an idiot.
Best review out there! Love the light transitions and direct side-by-side with 556A. Wrist shots and macros well blended. Thank you.
Thanks, funny enough I'm back at the WatchBuys roadshow today looking at Sinn's latest releases
Great review. Spot on about Sinn's price and quality and where it could sit in both a watch collection that has a lot of very high-end timepieces as well as a more modest lower budget conscious watch collection.
Love Sinn watches, and another GREAT review! My only critique of this watch, or its anniversary cousin, is the lack of a different color for 12 on the lume. Otherwise, I think they're amazing. I go back and forth on if I like this bracelet or the h-link better - the blue dial vs the grey. Anyway, congrats on another sweet watch!
I somewhat disagree with your statement that when you buy a Sinn, you're not paying for the name. That may have been true around 4 - 5 years ago, when you could pick up a 556 for around £650. But Sinns annoying habitual habit of aggressively increasing their prices year after year, now means that the same watch now costs nearly double that. That are cashing in on the greater brand awareness that social media and electronic media platforms have brought them and it slightly stinks.
To my mind, the new Damasko DS30 offers more bang for your book and I'm glad that a company now offers a true (better value) rival to the 556.
Dennis Kwok exactly I like the 556a but I looked into and discovered it used to be a lot cheaper . the special edition one is really nice but I'm not paying an extra £300 for a red second hand ! that's just ridiculous
Dennis, sounds like you have other brands in mind. Can you recommend me a brand that is better value than Sinn? A brand that we are not paying for the brand?
@@wengjai Hamilton
These in depth reviews are awesome. Would love to see the lug to lug measurements provided as well. Those are just as important to how the watch fits a wrist as the diameter size.
Nice review, think you covered the watch excepting total length (it's 45mm). I'm sold, really want the 556iB no date. Anyway my only concern is the lack of a dealer network within North America. Aware there is an online presence for the NA market yet it would be nice to have representation for the Canadian market. Regardless, it's a piece that sings to me, guessing the only issue is dealing with FedEx and their exorbitant fees for customs clearance.
I have the 556a for more than a year now and still love it.
If this blue version had a date, I would get it for sure. Now I'm on the fence.
Personal opinion of course it looks so clean without it, I prefer it. Plus with smartphones calendars, I hardly use my watch for its date function.
having owned both an aquis and sinn , which would you pick ? I am torn between the sinn 556/104 , and the aquis 39.5
Finally obtained a blue Sinn 556. They are quite difficult to find lately. I didn't get it on watchbuys but I did want to give them my business but I ended up getting it for a much better price than they offer. Walked away with mine new in box for a little over 1100
Great review. I like the discrete seconds hand on the blue dial version but wish the 12 o'clock indice was made a hair wider. Prefer the bracelet of the black dial (strap for me if blue), but not fond of the date window. Many thanks
I've tried mine (556i B) on both nato and the leather straps but did not look as nice as on the bracelet.
I love Sinn, all you need nothing you don't for a reasonable price.
Great review. First 556 I B review I've seen on YT.
Awesome watch. Definitely on my shortlist.
kjparlay thanks, appreciate the support
Beautiful and understated. Realistically this watch will never fit in my budget but it's nice to have something to dream about.
Never say never!
True enough! I had a Stowa in the past but I was always so concerned about damaging it I decided to sell it. I figure if I'm worried about damaging it, I probably can't REALLY afford it.
Great review ! Would love to see you review another understated German tool watch, Archimede Outdoor Protect and perhaps comparing it with the 556.
Joseph Cheng I've had my eye on that piece for a while, hopefully I'll eventually get one in to review. I do have an overlooked 556 alternative, I'll be reviewing in the future though, thanks
Average Bros look forward to it! I’m currently obsessed with German tool watches !
just got the archimede outdoor anti-mag and it is every bit as good as the sinn. same movement, hardened propietary steel case, unique german styling for several hunderd dollars less
I’ve had my eye on this watch since first discovering it here on your channel a few months ago. I was ready to pull the trigger when it went out of stock on Watchbuys. I saw yesterday, 11/15/18 that it was back in stock and ordered one! I know the quality is awesome because I already own the 556 I with the black dial and H-link bracelet. I look forward to wearing this beauty. I was looking at a Rolex OP 39 in blue, and had one in my hand at an AD, but I just didn’t see the Rolex being worth an extra $4500 over the Sinn. (I think I’m going to get the Rolex in a couple years anyway.)
Nice! Congratulations on the pickup
I bought a Sinn U1 and I have my eye on this piece.
Love Sinn watches, well built beauty for sure.
I own and love the 556i and think the B-version is also amazing. Wish they would have a 40mm-version.
Frank H. Look at the Sinn 856
Year, 556i in 40mm or 856 in satinized and i-Version ;-)
Good review of a nice executed watch!
Did you get your two 556s from a Watchbuys road show or did you purchase them through their website? Also, I'm curious why you chose the same watch but with different dial variants. Please share why. Thanks! Great video!
Redbirdsfan1970 they don't sell watches at the roadshows, I purchased these through their site. I purchased 2 different 556's because, well they're different enough for me to enjoy them both
Average Bros they both look great! Sinn makes a great watch. I have a 104 St Sa I and love it. Wear them in good health!
Since owning these for a while, I was wondering which of the two designs that you find wears bigger/smaller?
Thanks, but I’m still wondering: Does the absence of the date leave a phantom crown position?
John Borra it does
That settles it. Form should follow function. Same reason I lost interest in Junghans Max Bill nodate.
What is a phantom crown position?
A crown position for date setting on a watch without date, I suppose using my intelligence and the context.
Removed it now. All good in my MOP.
I used to think the 556 looks so plain and boring but for some reason, its slowly but surely growing on me!
Very meticulous review! Great job! Nice watch!
I’m surprised that the Monta is even higher quality than this Sinn. I wish Monta make index options like Sinn. Not a fan of arabic numerals.
@AverageBros Great video Mark, I really enjoyed watching as always! I have a few questions:
1) Is the finish of the case slightly different to that of the end link of the bracelet?
2) Which bracelet did you find more comfortable (H-Link or 5-Link)? Are there any pros and cons that you have realised over the time you had the two?
Looking forward to hearing back from you when you have a minute, keep up the good work!
1) Finish is consistent
2) Tough to say which is objectively more comfortable, planning to do an in depth comparison between H-Link and Fine-Link for those choosing between the two though
Wow thanks for the quick reply Mark, much appreciated.
Maybe the disparity that I think I was seeing between lugs and end link was circular brushing on case and longitudinal on bracelet? Is that the case?
I look forward to that video, and of course I understand that with comfort comes a large portion of subjectivity. Would you be willing to say which you found more comfortable out of the two? I'll still watch the video, promise!
Damn, annoying how this clasp is sooo much better than the H link bracelet :(
Hi, is it ETA or Sellita ?
Just got a 556i from watchbuys and the watch has a misaligned dial they claim is within tolerance and Sinn said the same thing to me, absolute crap quality control for a $1400 watch. There is a reason why tons of them are for sale in the aftermarket. BUYER BEWARE!
I would love to see a white dial of it
onnoori lee i believe they offer this model in a white dial as well. Black and gray too. The black one has a date window.
Damasko is the obvious comparison. The 100M/200M thing is a bit silly on a watch with no bezel.
Would you say this watch would pass as a dress watch?
As long as your wrist isn't too small, you should get by
Average Bros thanks for the reply.
I was seriously considering this as my first foray into luxury watches but in the end I slightly blew my budget and went for the Ball engineer M Marvelight. A great watch nonetheless I think, and you have earned a new subscriber 👍🏻
Do you still have this? Do you want to sell it? lol
I like the Sinn 556 line, but way overpriced for what you get. I bought the 556a and sent it back... instantly knew it wasn't the watch for me... nice watch, but nothing special. I think the Hamilton Field Khaki for 1/3 price does the same as the Sinn 556. I just couldn't get past that.
Shipmate really. Quickly I need to ask, is the fit and finish refinement of the case and bracelet of the Sinn similar to Hamilton ?
I think the Sinn had better finishing, but it was nothing special. However, Hamilton has a much better clasp than Sinn. Sinn's bracelet clasp (on the H-link bracelet) is horrible and feels cheap and dated. I would recommend the Sinn 104 or step up to a Sinn 857 or 757... but then you are getting up to Omega Seamaster Professional price (Jomashop sells them for $2800).
Stop ! Stop making reviews of this watch ... Now the price will just keep increasing , I've heard it used to be about 700 USD now you can't get a one under a 1,000 USD ?!
Rather have a Seiko Spork and $500 in my pocket
Your exaggerated "ummms" make your presentation a little difficult to listen to. Just trying to be honest and helpful. You can definitely work on reducing those, or at least how pronounced they sound.