Steeldive 100%, gentlemen and ladies. All the way. I use them working in Iraq, on oilfields and as a highly active recreational diver. Same quality, better specs, lower prices, often same movement - they are almost everything that Seiko used to be once upon a time, before 'Prospex', pushing prices way too far northwards, reducing specs on the 'New' Seiko 5 Sports range. I was sceptical at first but since been nothing but impressed... despite my nostalgic fondness for Seiko which got me started in the watch game, they are seriously losing ground. The key is for Steeldive, Addiesdive and San Martin etc to not move off in the same direction. Superb video BTW
Where did they lower specs? The new Seiko 5 actually upped the specs. They are now 100 meter water resistant, instead of just 30 meters. Yes, the new line is more expensive, but considering the improved water resistance, it means a better case and seals, and that makes it worth an extra 80 to 100 bucks or so, from the prices I see. Old S-5 are about USD 120 now on Amazon and Walmart, new S-5 about USD 200 to USD 220.
Steeldives are excellent watches. Been wearing a Steeldive Airking homage for a couple years now. I work on a Great Lakes iron ore freighter (Paul R Tregurtha), so my watches get banged up. My Steeldive is scratched all to hell(except the crystal) and it still looks great. Runs within the specs in regards to accuracy. Usually only have to update the time once a month. Even then, its only a minute or two off. Wore a Seiko Monster for 20 years and that was a great watch. And it took a beating. BTW i started wearing it on the inside of wrist to keep from smacking it on railings and such.
I disagree with your "value" conclusion. Identical movements, but a $300 price difference? With the sum of other factors, the value conclusion has to favor the Steeldive. Perhaps we define "value" differntly.
The fact that SEIKO vary rarely offers Sapphire Crystal on most of their range as put me off buying Seiko now for around 10 Years. Also why pay 400-500usd for a watch and not have a minimum of 200m water resistant. STEEL-DIVE all the way for me, hell you could buy 3-4 STEEL DIVES for the price of a SEIKO, the last SEIKO I had to return as the bezel had too much play, that is something which as never happened on a STEEL DIVE as yet!
Hi, hope you are well. I love your reviews. To me, the Steeldive IS a Seiko, if it has a Seiko movement. It’s just rebadged…and cheaper. All the best.👍🏾🇬🇧
I have both watches and I like them both. I wish that the Seiko had a screw down crown and a 200-meter water resistance. I often swim in the pool or ocean, and this makes the Seiko less suitable for my lifestyle. If I had to choose between the two, I would choose the Steel Dive because of its sapphire crystal, lumed & ceramic bezel, screw down crown, and higher water resistance. Great review, THANKS!
You can swim and snorkel with these SSK GMT watches. They are 100m WR and easily can handle swimming and surf. The myth that you need a screw down crown is just that, a myth.
Very nice and informative comparison! Quick note: The Seiko‘s indices are not applied but stamped/pressed. A technique that Seiko uses for most of their divers even higher up in the Prospex line.
I have a Seiko SSK003 and I love it. Maybe my favorite watch. Even better that I bought it new for the price around of the homage. Got a crazy coupon deal on Kohl's, of all places. The bezel on mine is super firm, no way to move it by accident. I do like the lume and crystal on the Steeldive. Lume on Seiko is amazing but I would like to see which last longer in the dark.
This is a great video, in my opinion; on many levels. The most important for me is that companies like Seiko lead the way in research and development enabling companies like steel dive to profit from no investment at all. This Seiko gmt is not priced heavily and can be found at much less than its mrp. I’m sticking with Seiko because it is a legendary brand, that keeps innovating and, keeps pushing….
I have both watches and find that I prefer the Steeldive as I can use it with no worry when I want to swim, dive or otherwise cavort in the pool or ocean.
Aren't most watch parts manufactured in China. And Chinese watch companies collaborate on development with non-chinese companies when new parts/movements are being put together. We are not talking about new never seen complications. We are talking design. For true R&D, in almost every field, China spends more money than any other country. Look at the number of peer reviewed scientific papers published. I don't really care, but just saying. Good, inexpensive watches are what I care about.
@@MrScrunchee Agreed, investment in design is product development and not R&D. Given the amount of prior art in the field, the argument that SEIKO is subsidizing the competition is rather weak. Especially when considering the superlative specs that Steeldive is offering.
Other than name you choose the steeldive as you beater but have the seiko as a desk diver, because of looks. A diver is a tool watch. I want a tool watch like a diver. You work in a office and don't sleep in the woods. I'm Canadian and I will never buy any new seiko. I'll buy used if I want but they are not worth the money spent. Steel dive has a higher end, i own several bronze; 500 meter, 1000 meter. I am in the woods snow water. Steeldive is a better watch. Addiesdive, San martin. Seiko is cheap skating. I use my watches like my body. My body looks better when used outdoors. "I give it to the seiko fancy watch that can't really be seen outside a office." Gosh. It is supposed to be a tool not a office watch. No outdoors makes a watch useless. Thank you for letting me know your lifestyle difference. The difference is I'm outdoors and your indoors looking out but I'm looking in. Steeldive is better. How does the seiko look 10 meters below? Steeldive is better? I'm sorry but I disagree with you. Seiko has lost its way. Money hungry is happening and the wolf is eating the chickens 🐔. I'm a wolf.
@ShinyThings thank you for a great review. 👍 I love watching. I hope I didn't come off as upset. Honestly I use my casio 2300 for my wrist when doing chopping wood or chores. My addiesdive Willard is modded and it is tough. Still great . My vostok komandirskie is used a lot and my 8215 corguet ( omega railmaster) is excellent for work. Noisy but I think that it is talking back, complaining about the abuse. Yeah. Enjoy the heat, I can't wait for the cold to return. No bugs. Cheers from Canada nova scotia. Cape Breton. Christmas island. Is were my family is from. Thanks to you for the review. I own 50 watches and none are seikos. Just seiko powered from Singapore 🇸🇬.
Not sure why people complain about 100m and a push / pull crown on a GMT. If you're using the watch for its intended purpose, a screw down crown is not ideal on a GMT. 100m of WR is more than enough. Even the big crown offers 100m on their GMTs.
It's a concept called peace of mind. Nobody needs sticky tires on their car, but it sure is an added bonus if the car brakes a few meters earlier in case of an emergency without losing grip. Nobody needs a screen protector on their phone, but it's good to know that whatever happens, you're at least minimally covered. Nobody needs a watch, since we have phones, but it's good to know your watch still works and isn't damaged by water, dust and vapour ingress in case your phone isn't available.
I have the Seiko GMT and you cannot hate that bezel it shines better than any ceramic or alloy bezel. I actually like the friction bezel it’s so smooth and never had a problem with it moving. To be honest it fits better on my wrist than a 40mm sub. Question is does anyone want a GMT function and bezel on a dive watch ? Great review 👍
@@sajjadhossain4669 Probably not such a small wrist. Maybe your ankle? As for a GMT with robust water resistance...absolutely. A GMT is very convenient when on travel...and if I am travelling light I have only one watch...and if I swim or dive with that watch...it better be water proof.
Excellent video and comparison. I'm a Seiko fanboy but also have a great Steeldive Tuna which is excellent. I do have the orange dial Seiko GMT. I don't like the cyclops, so I swapped it out for a sapphire crystal with NO cyclops, looks better in my opinion. I also changed the Seiko clasp mechanism for a milled piece. As for the bezel I must disagree, the all lumed bezel is unnecessary on a GMT, bi-directional is how it should be and the light play on Seiko's bezel is quite stunning. As for the bracelet I'll be honest and give it to Steeldive. I do think the Steeldive is a good watch for the money, in fact excellent value, but the original Seiko is always the best overall, you can always tell a photocopy from an original. As for an Ali Express GMT, I have an eye on that original design San Martin which looks pretty good. Thanks for the comparison. I think that Steeldive will still be a great option for many people who don't want to spend $400 +.
The SM GMT Original is pretty cool - I reviewed the black / white one - here: th-cam.com/video/A7A9UN4qqzc/w-d-xo.html. As for the bracelets on SD vs Seiko - it is not a clear cut. Inverted end links - plus for Seiko, milled inner clasp - plus for Steeldive, so, I guess, it then comes down what is more important to you, that's why I gave that point an even score 🙂
I own the SSK003J1 and love this watch , and no my friction bezel does not move unless I move it . I added a Marine Master clasp to my stock bracelet on this watch and Seiko perfection 👍🏻💯
Usually I'm an advocate for Seiko but since they upped the price with poor spec and my experience with Steeldive, this time I put my money in Steeldive. Sure they're not as polished as San Martin but the spec and quality on par or even better with lower end Seiko
Ho uno steeldive 1970R ... sorprendente per qualità... certamente il prezzo mi ha aiutato ragione per la quale ho il suo GMT nella lista dei desideri. Quando e se scenderà di prezzo lo acquisterò. Questo Seiko a 4/500€ neanche lo prendo in considerazione
Im stuck between these two for my first watch. I love the seiko dial and open back, but prefer the steeldive bracelet. Might go with the seiko but I’d love to hear feedback or opinions from anyone who has one or the other.
I have a Seiko ssk001 and a Steeldive 1953. That Seiko GMT is an absolute stunner, but my biggest complain about the watch is the hardlex glass. That's why I got the Steeldive. Everything except the glass on Seiko is better than Steeldive imo.
G'evening my friend ☕☕ 🤠 . Thanks for the heads up. This steeldive is definitely on my bucket list. For the $ I'm jumping on a steeldive Monster. For the $ it's the best deal on a monster that Ive found as of yet
I'd have the Steeldive over the Seiko all the time! I prefer solid back (harder wearing, more water resistance), screwdown crown, sapphire crystal! The bracelet is also better. You'd have to be crazy to want the Seiko over the Steeldive. I own Steeldive & Seiko; Steeldive blows away my Seikos.
Part of a watch game is also, to give the people a good quality watch for a good price. This Seiko watch costs around 500 €. I can buy 3x Steeldive s, or if I want maybe a Steinhart watch which destroys the whole Seiko game with STILL QC issues. Just get a Citizen.
Look at the discolored Lume on the steeldive it's either applied generously and that's great in my opinion or it's faux patina and that's not great. They are on sale right now I gotta try them out
Bought my SSK003 from ebay brand new for $267.49 tax included. For that price I will never look up for homages. Put a MM300 clasp on it and now thinking to install a sapphire cristal. 😀👌
Was at a mall here in Bangkok and they wanted the equivalent of $460 for this... I think I'll get the steeldive instead... they also wanted $320 for the seiko srpd55k1
That steeldive isn't bad but a unidirectional GMT bezel? Sure, it has a screw down crown but how thoroughly are they tested. Teddy Baldassarre did a video with one of his team last week who was a former pro diver. He had footage of himself wearing an SSK at around 30mts depth. As an owner of the blueberry I'm going to be biased but the genuine article is something you will cherish and the homage is just another disposable watch.
Unless the Steeldive is ISO diver certified I don't trust the 200m as far as I can throw it. The Invicta "Pro Diver" also spouts 200m of WR and I 've seen plenty of them leak like a sieve. The purpose of ISO 6425 is so that you know that YOUR piece has been certified to it's rating. Every ISO 6245 certified diver has been at pressure equal to 125% rated depth for 1 hour. Every piece. The Seiko 5 GMT is not a dive watch nor does it claim to be. And while 100m is nice, and more than suitable for the pool or swimming on the surface of the ocean, there is no way I would take it snorkeling or scuba diving anymore than I would take the Steeldive. Companies like Rolex and Omega can forego ISO certification simply because their name and reputation carry such weight. A Rolex or Omega failure at 50m would be disastrous to the brand. So they do the same level of testing on their watches in house, they simply choose not to pay ISO for the certification. However, makers of "affordable" watches do pay for ISO certification to ensure that their "divers" are properly certified. SteelDiver, also doesn't pay ISO for the certification, but I'm confident that they don't do the same level of destructive and non-destructive testing Omega or Rolex does on their divers. All my other watches, I take their WR ratings with a healthy grain of salt. 30M=Don't even like taking it in the rain. 50M= I'll take it in the shower Non Diver 100M-200M=I'll only take it in the pool or surface of the ocean. Diver 200M=Dive to max recreation depth and never worry.
Steeldive is a tool watch, what the seiko once was. The seiko is for mall shopping. I would take the SD any day. If it was my first mech i would choose either. Mine was a seiko monster. Having a mineral on a diver is reasonable, Having it on a "fancy" diver is a flaw. If i was on the market for a gmt i will not get an nh34 as i understand the miyota 9075, if im not mistaken, is better and affordable. If i had to choose nh 34 i would look somewhere else then SD bc there are others better than these 2. Only my opinion, i do not want to disrespect any seiki or SD owners. Great review my friend! The seiko clasp is very comfortable although its pressed and the SD will be more comfortable bc of more micro adjust holes..
I love the blue color and red gmt hand of the seiko. But the steeldive does not offer dial and bezel on this color. What would be a good alternative to the steeldive? ideally under $100. The corgeut gmt is quite cheap, not blue the white dial is quite beautiful also.
Both watches are quite new, so it's a bit hard to tell. But historically SHORT TERM: SD can be resold with about 30% to 50% discount based on condition, Seiko drops by 15% to 30%, however Seiko retail price dropped already by about 10% - 15% (depending on the colorway) since the introduction a few months ago. As for the LONG TERM - my money is on Seiko 🙂 especially if it gets discontinued 😁
With the exception of the bracelet and crystal, the Seiko is a better watch. Is it a lot better than the SD? I don't think so. The SD bracelet is far superior, and the V3 version of the watch is even better with a full milled clasp. Nevertheless, I purchased the SD, mostly because I don't feel like paying 150% premium when the watches have the same movement. I'd gladly pay more for a (much) better movement, but that's not the case here. In addition, I don't like the display case. Also, I don't NEED 200m of WR, but I won't turn it down, either. I also prefer a screw-down crown...I don't really know why.
How do I put this? I am why I can't have nice things. 13:02 I would invariably wear either watch in the same situations and would be as likely to inflict damage to one as the other. While I appreciate nice things, put bluntly, I am clumsy. So if one is slightly more rugged AND is one third the price that will be my choice.
I've been watching reviews on any Seiko for under $300.... I've been unimpressed, especially when people in the reviews are modding these seikos out of the box to make them slimmer and fit better. I was settled on the Seiko srpd55k1, but after seeing it in person, I was disappointed.
Steeldive is a specs monster but Seiko simply looks better. The dial design is more important as you see it up close whenever you check the time. I have 2 steeldive watches but I found myself not wearing them often and the likes of Citizen, Orient and even Casio get more wrist time because the dial is more beautiful and a joy to look at
The Steeldive 1993 has the mercedes handset, which look WAY better than the Seiko style ones (generally I do not usually prefer mercedes handsets). The one with the black and green bezel looks pretty good. The specs of the steeldive are better in every way over the Seiko. At a fraction over $200 USD for the Steeldive, the Seiko loses big time!
Hola amigo , me acabo de comprar el GMT de steeldive color azul con bicel pepsi, es hermoso y funciona de maravilla, el único detalle es su brazalete jubilee con acabados filosos, pero le pondré una correa de silicona y se vera genial, por el precio estoy muy satisfecho, con su calidad, zafiro, corona roscada, tapa posterior de acero, movimiento nh34, muy buen reloj, saludos desde Chile.
Steel Dive all the way because the 5KX is an SKX imposter that features less water resistance than the SKX as well as the Steel Dive, but sells for around 300 bucks, which this watch isn’t worth!
So you’d rather go with a brand that has been known to have bad QC (Seiko)? Just for looks, yet all the specs and finishing crush almost all watches in this price bracket 😂
@krepkomimo Steeldive on AliExpress. There is a link in the description of the video or try this one, it looks like a better deal: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DeKKB7X As for Seiko, I bought it in the UK from Seiko authorised dealer. I've seen some Seikos on Ali but I'm not convinced :-) Hope this helps. Thanks for watching! 🙂👍
@@ShinyThings thank you for link. I wanted to order mako 3 kamasu, but i from Netherland and here price for kamasu around 400€. How do you think what is the watch will be better? Becouse price for Steel dive is very sweet
"in house movement".... That's kind of a stretch! Same company owns the plant that makes the movement... Same company owns the various factories i guess.... But The mass produced in various factories in third book countries and a assembled there too.... The made in Japan stuff costs a lot more.... Orient used to have in house movements.... Everything used to be made and assembled in house in Japan. Not anymore.
Of course Seiko would be your first choice, since you have to really justify spending a whole lot more for any under performing Seiko… and yes, I have had a Seiko SKX-007 leak, so ISO certified is a joke
Seiko GMT at 550 EUR is currently available in Europe, while the SD1994, which has better characteristics, is around 70 EUR after coupons and discounts. Howeva, Seiko still come out as the winner in terms of value? )) Howeva.
Without having seen either of the two: How can you not prefer the SD? - no pointless display case-back. The see-through variant adds cost/complexity just so you can see an NH35/34? That's like putting a transparent engine-cover on your entry level car. It's cool on a 12-cylinder Ferrari or Lamborghini, but it's a bit silly and unnecessary on a 3- or 4-banger, entry-level VW Polo. - SD has a proper, milled clasp. Not that infuriatingly cheap looking, "1980s-style pressed-steel-made-from-old-tin-cans" abomination that Seiko still throw on theirs. - SD has sapphire - SD has proper WR, appropriate to the looks of the watch and its type. And I'm sorry to have to disagree on "value", but: Who gives a crap about "in-house" movement? I don't much care about that sort of stuff on luxury or other Swiss watches, but I'd care a whole bunch less in this section of the market and if the "in house" movement in question is an NH35. A movement which can be found on a gazillion micro-brand watches and which costs way less than 100 bucks to replace. In fact, the SD seems like incredible value to me, considering the entire packages. I'd have no problem with the Seiko's price if it offered all the things I pointed out above at that price. But 400 to 500 for a Seiko 5 without a screw-down crown, without sapphire and with a cheap-as-chips pressed clasp? You'd really have to be a huge fan of the brand to pay that kind of money when you could almost buy three SDs for the same amount.
The Steeldive can't offer the Seiko name. Part of the enjoyment of watch collecting is to get watches from makers that have interesting stories and tradition. The Seiko 5 is not a super expensive watch like, say... a Royal Oak. For me, it makes no sense to get a 'homage' in this case.
The value hand down goes to seiko??? Hahah this guy was making sense until that. Another seiko fan boy. The steel dive blows the seiko out of the water. Ok the dial rates a little higher...but that's it. Stamped clasp? And it's a draw? Hahahah ok seiko paid this guy
Steeldive dials are utter trash. If this was a 150 dollar homage to a 5k watch, that would be understandable but for basically a hundred and fifty more you can have the genuine article so homages make no sense here from a value perspective
people still arguing that 100m is "enough" do not understand how specific and limited water resistance testing is, nor dynamic pressures and have never experienced a flooded watch...
Strange to see Steeldive bezel turns in one direction only. I have Steeldive Pepsi GMT and I think it was released before this one and it turns 120 click in both ways.
Yes, when the reviewer gave the bracelet comparison a TIE without emphasizing the SD machined clasp during that COMPARE...seemed odd. Yes, it was mentioned earlier in the video...but was avoided during the compare segment.
That cyclops on the Steeldive is hiddeous. The cheap looking dial and the 120 unidirectional dive bezel on a GMT watch .....cheap. Seiko 100 m water resistance is crap. The hardlex crystal is a scratch magnet that cant be repaired . Friction bezel will wear over time or seize. The bracelet is laughable. I would not buy any of them. Its a tie!
I don't really understand homages of affordable watches, but that's a personal opinion. For me, a homage is only worth it for something I'll either never afford or not want to spend the money on. My doxa 600t homage i could afford, but i think it's original is overpriced, so i wouldn't buy it, even used.
Simple. 1) There is no IP protection as long as the brand is not infringed. 2) "Homaging" is a cost effective go-to-market strategy, in terms of speed-to-market and market positioning. 3) If established brands are delivering poor value on the back of their brand equity...the Homage is filling a gap created by the established brand owner.
Steeldive ok but guarantee is useless mine went wrong and haven’t had any joy trying to get it sorted out and that’s the problem with bloggers they can tell you it’s pretty and ticks all the boxes but never tell you the after sale service is crap so go with the seiko from a reputable dealer ( not Amazon or Ali express or similar companies ) wouldn’t be so bad if I had worn the watch but it was a present and never got it out of the box until I had had it two months only to find it wasn’t working Amazon told me I had the watch over 2 months and not their problem and send it back to retailers but their address isn’t on Amazon or in the box finally found it was some place in wales uk emailed them but didn’t get a reply so take my advice and don’t end up getting stitched up !,,,,,,
Seiko grande azienda ma, i suoi orologi seppur eccezionali talvolta non mi fanno battere forte il cuore. Certamente ad 1/3 del prezzo Seiko prenderei steel dive, alla metà, nessuno dei 2
The fact that the Seiko has a push-pull crown not screw-down means it's a complete non-starter. I refuse to buy any watch that's built like a dive watch which doesn't have a screw-down crown. Sorry Seiko - you dun screwed up by not screwing down!
I have the same watch. Received mine in 5 days, runs about 5 seconds fast per day. Thr lume is insanely bright.. Great beater watch that I get tons of compliments on.
Steeldive 100%, gentlemen and ladies. All the way. I use them working in Iraq, on oilfields and as a highly active recreational diver. Same quality, better specs, lower prices, often same movement - they are almost everything that Seiko used to be once upon a time, before 'Prospex', pushing prices way too far northwards, reducing specs on the 'New' Seiko 5 Sports range. I was sceptical at first but since been nothing but impressed... despite my nostalgic fondness for Seiko which got me started in the watch game, they are seriously losing ground. The key is for Steeldive, Addiesdive and San Martin etc to not move off in the same direction. Superb video BTW
Reading your reply you used a lot of them at the time - I wander why?????
A higher recommendation than this one cannot have. I used to be a big Seiko guy too but they just don't have that x factor anymore.
Where did they lower specs? The new Seiko 5 actually upped the specs. They are now 100 meter water resistant, instead of just 30 meters. Yes, the new line is more expensive, but considering the improved water resistance, it means a better case and seals, and that makes it worth an extra 80 to 100 bucks or so, from the prices I see. Old S-5 are about USD 120 now on Amazon and Walmart, new S-5 about USD 200 to USD 220.
Seiko is #1
Addisdive better than all.
Hands down , Steeldive, quantity and value 👍
Steeldives are excellent watches. Been wearing a Steeldive Airking homage for a couple years now. I work on a Great Lakes iron ore freighter (Paul R Tregurtha), so my watches get banged up. My Steeldive is scratched all to hell(except the crystal) and it still looks great. Runs within the specs in regards to accuracy. Usually only have to update the time once a month. Even then, its only a minute or two off. Wore a Seiko Monster for 20 years and that was a great watch. And it took a beating. BTW i started wearing it on the inside of wrist to keep from smacking it on railings and such.
Thank you for sharing!
Steeldive all the way, better crown, better crystal, better 2.5 cyclop, better lume. Bought one yesterday after seeing this video 👍🏻
Better chapter ring alignment too. 👍
Bester Lume? Wtf it's way worse
I disagree with your "value" conclusion. Identical movements, but a $300 price difference? With the sum of other factors, the value conclusion has to favor the Steeldive. Perhaps we define "value" differntly.
The fact that SEIKO vary rarely offers Sapphire Crystal on most of their range as put me off buying Seiko now for around 10 Years. Also why pay 400-500usd for a watch and not have a minimum of 200m water resistant. STEEL-DIVE all the way for me, hell you could buy 3-4 STEEL DIVES for the price of a SEIKO, the last SEIKO I had to return as the bezel had too much play, that is something which as never happened on a STEEL DIVE as yet!
Hi, hope you are well.
I love your reviews.
To me, the Steeldive IS a Seiko, if it has a Seiko movement. It’s just rebadged…and cheaper.
All the best.👍🏾🇬🇧
I'm well, thank you! 🙂 and thank for sharing! 🙂👍
I think I would have chosen the Steeldive 10 out of 10 times. The there is just more watch for your money and the value of that Seiko name is waning.
I have both watches and I like them both. I wish that the Seiko had a screw down crown and a 200-meter water resistance. I often swim in the pool or ocean, and this makes the Seiko less suitable for my lifestyle. If I had to choose between the two, I would choose the Steel Dive because of its sapphire crystal, lumed & ceramic bezel, screw down crown, and higher water resistance. Great review, THANKS!
It is for these reasons I would not even consider the SEIKO. If I am going to buy a hefty tool watch...it better have these minimum functional specs.
You can swim and snorkel with these SSK GMT watches. They are 100m WR and easily can handle swimming and surf. The myth that you need a screw down crown is just that, a myth.
Very nice and informative comparison! Quick note: The Seiko‘s indices are not applied but stamped/pressed. A technique that Seiko uses for most of their divers even higher up in the Prospex line.
I love steeldives and seiko but with this comparison id go with steeldive.
Steeldives watches are great watches. I have 6 for many years and they all work nice
I have a Seiko SSK003 and I love it. Maybe my favorite watch. Even better that I bought it new for the price around of the homage. Got a crazy coupon deal on Kohl's, of all places. The bezel on mine is super firm, no way to move it by accident. I do like the lume and crystal on the Steeldive. Lume on Seiko is amazing but I would like to see which last longer in the dark.
This is a great video, in my opinion; on many levels. The most important for me is that companies like Seiko lead the way in research and development enabling companies like steel dive to profit from no investment at all. This Seiko gmt is not priced heavily and can be found at much less than its mrp. I’m sticking with Seiko because it is a legendary brand, that keeps innovating and, keeps pushing….
Keep buying seikos. So I can purchase a addiesdive.
I have both watches and find that I prefer the Steeldive as I can use it with no worry when I want to swim, dive or otherwise cavort in the pool or ocean.
Don’t let logic and facts get in the way of a good decision.
Aren't most watch parts manufactured in China. And Chinese watch companies collaborate on development with non-chinese companies when new parts/movements are being put together. We are not talking about new never seen complications. We are talking design. For true R&D, in almost every field, China spends more money than any other country. Look at the number of peer reviewed scientific papers published. I don't really care, but just saying. Good, inexpensive watches are what I care about.
@@MrScrunchee Agreed, investment in design is product development and not R&D. Given the amount of prior art in the field, the argument that SEIKO is subsidizing the competition is rather weak. Especially when considering the superlative specs that Steeldive is offering.
Other than name you choose the steeldive as you beater but have the seiko as a desk diver, because of looks.
A diver is a tool watch.
I want a tool watch like a diver.
You work in a office and don't sleep in the woods.
I'm Canadian and I will never buy any new seiko.
I'll buy used if I want but they are not worth the money spent.
Steel dive has a higher end, i own several bronze; 500 meter, 1000 meter. I am in the woods snow water. Steeldive is a better watch. Addiesdive, San martin.
Seiko is cheap skating.
I use my watches like my body. My body looks better when used outdoors.
"I give it to the seiko fancy watch that can't really be seen outside a office."
Gosh. It is supposed to be a tool not a office watch.
No outdoors makes a watch useless.
Thank you for letting me know your lifestyle difference.
The difference is I'm outdoors and your indoors looking out but I'm looking in.
Steeldive is better.
How does the seiko look
10 meters below?
Steeldive is better?
I'm sorry but I disagree with you. Seiko has lost its way. Money hungry is happening and the wolf is eating the chickens 🐔.
I'm a wolf.
Thank you for sharing! I enjoyed reading about your watch philosophy if I may call it so 🙂 Enjoy your rugged outdoor adventures and good luck! 🙂👍
@ShinyThings thank you for a great review. 👍 I love watching. I hope I didn't come off as upset.
Honestly I use my casio 2300 for my wrist when doing chopping wood or chores.
My addiesdive Willard is modded and it is tough. Still great .
My vostok komandirskie is used a lot and my 8215 corguet ( omega railmaster) is excellent for work. Noisy but I think that it is talking back, complaining about the abuse.
Yeah.
Enjoy the heat, I can't wait for the cold to return. No bugs.
Cheers from Canada nova scotia. Cape Breton. Christmas island. Is were my family is from. Thanks to you for the review.
I own 50 watches and none are seikos. Just seiko powered from Singapore 🇸🇬.
Not sure why people complain about 100m and a push / pull crown on a GMT. If you're using the watch for its intended purpose, a screw down crown is not ideal on a GMT. 100m of WR is more than enough. Even the big crown offers 100m on their GMTs.
Lol. Most people won't take their watches deeper than their bathroom sink. Makes me laugh when people complain only 100m.
@JR-gp2zk vacation aint only about scuba diving.
I actually dives with a 100m Alba to 20+m open water, a cheap one at that and it hold out okay
It's a concept called peace of mind. Nobody needs sticky tires on their car, but it sure is an added bonus if the car brakes a few meters earlier in case of an emergency without losing grip. Nobody needs a screen protector on their phone, but it's good to know that whatever happens, you're at least minimally covered. Nobody needs a watch, since we have phones, but it's good to know your watch still works and isn't damaged by water, dust and vapour ingress in case your phone isn't available.
@@PocketUau nobody needs a water resistant watch 200 meters. Because youde probably dead by then.
The good question would rather be the other way around:
Do you really need the Seiko if you have the Steeldive? 😊
I have the Seiko GMT and you cannot hate that bezel it shines better than any ceramic or alloy bezel. I actually like the friction bezel it’s so smooth and never had a problem with it moving.
To be honest it fits better on my wrist than a 40mm sub.
Question is does anyone want a GMT function and bezel on a dive watch ?
Great review 👍
Is Seiko gmt good for 6 inch wrist?
@@sajjadhossain4669 Probably not such a small wrist. Maybe your ankle? As for a GMT with robust water resistance...absolutely. A GMT is very convenient when on travel...and if I am travelling light I have only one watch...and if I swim or dive with that watch...it better be water proof.
Excellent video and comparison. I'm a Seiko fanboy but also have a great Steeldive Tuna which is excellent. I do have the orange dial Seiko GMT. I don't like the cyclops, so I swapped it out for a sapphire crystal with NO cyclops, looks better in my opinion. I also changed the Seiko clasp mechanism for a milled piece. As for the bezel I must disagree, the all lumed bezel is unnecessary on a GMT, bi-directional is how it should be and the light play on Seiko's bezel is quite stunning. As for the bracelet I'll be honest and give it to Steeldive. I do think the Steeldive is a good watch for the money, in fact excellent value, but the original Seiko is always the best overall, you can always tell a photocopy from an original. As for an Ali Express GMT, I have an eye on that original design San Martin which looks pretty good. Thanks for the comparison. I think that Steeldive will still be a great option for many people who don't want to spend $400 +.
The SM GMT Original is pretty cool - I reviewed the black / white one - here: th-cam.com/video/A7A9UN4qqzc/w-d-xo.html. As for the bracelets on SD vs Seiko - it is not a clear cut. Inverted end links - plus for Seiko, milled inner clasp - plus for Steeldive, so, I guess, it then comes down what is more important to you, that's why I gave that point an even score 🙂
I own the SSK003J1 and love this watch , and no my friction bezel does not move unless I move it . I added a Marine Master clasp to my stock bracelet on this watch and Seiko perfection 👍🏻💯
Thanks for sharing! Interesting solution with using a MM clasp 🙂
Thanks for the review, after this I'll buy the seiko. Steeldive only has the saphire glass. Seiko has the looks.
Usually I'm an advocate for Seiko but since they upped the price with poor spec and my experience with Steeldive, this time I put my money in Steeldive. Sure they're not as polished as San Martin but the spec and quality on par or even better with lower end Seiko
Ho uno steeldive 1970R ... sorprendente per qualità... certamente il prezzo mi ha aiutato ragione per la quale ho il suo GMT nella lista dei desideri.
Quando e se scenderà di prezzo lo acquisterò.
Questo Seiko a 4/500€ neanche lo prendo in considerazione
Nice video. Looks like the Steel Dive has a better aligned chapter ring too. 😉
Im stuck between these two for my first watch. I love the seiko dial and open back, but prefer the steeldive bracelet. Might go with the seiko but I’d love to hear feedback or opinions from anyone who has one or the other.
I just wrote an opinion about the Seiko and a general one about Steeldive. Take a look my friend!
I have a Seiko ssk001 and a Steeldive 1953. That Seiko GMT is an absolute stunner, but my biggest complain about the watch is the hardlex glass. That's why I got the Steeldive. Everything except the glass on Seiko is better than Steeldive imo.
Seiko. Don’t buy a homage of a sub 1k watch
I prefer the Seiko over any of these homages. The design is perfect and I have yet to scratch a hardlex crystal.
Teeldive gives more bang for less than half the price. Sapphire and ceramic ? ..jubilee and an nh movt ? Wow..
G'evening my friend ☕☕ 🤠 . Thanks for the heads up. This steeldive is definitely on my bucket list. For the $ I'm jumping on a steeldive Monster. For the $ it's the best deal on a monster that Ive found as of yet
Great video - would love to see a GMT instructional video if you ever have the chance.
I'd have the Steeldive over the Seiko all the time! I prefer solid back (harder wearing, more water resistance), screwdown crown, sapphire crystal! The bracelet is also better. You'd have to be crazy to want the Seiko over the Steeldive. I own Steeldive & Seiko; Steeldive blows away my Seikos.
Part of a watch game is also, to give the people a good quality watch for a good price. This Seiko watch costs around 500 €. I can buy 3x Steeldive s, or if I want maybe a Steinhart watch which destroys the whole Seiko game with STILL QC issues. Just get a Citizen.
Look at the discolored Lume on the steeldive it's either applied generously and that's great in my opinion or it's faux patina and that's not great. They are on sale right now I gotta try them out
Bought my SSK003 from ebay brand new for $267.49 tax included. For that price I will never look up for homages. Put a MM300 clasp on it and now thinking to install a sapphire cristal. 😀👌
Was at a mall here in Bangkok and they wanted the equivalent of $460 for this... I think I'll get the steeldive instead... they also wanted $320 for the seiko srpd55k1
That steeldive isn't bad but a unidirectional GMT bezel? Sure, it has a screw down crown but how thoroughly are they tested. Teddy Baldassarre did a video with one of his team last week who was a former pro diver. He had footage of himself wearing an SSK at around 30mts depth. As an owner of the blueberry I'm going to be biased but the genuine article is something you will cherish and the homage is just another disposable watch.
So let me get this straight you cherish a watch based on what brand name is on the dial?
@@hazey5736 I think he's saying- go with the original, not a homage.
I once considered the seiko5 but the crap glass and pushpull crown were a dealbreaker for the price. ...
Unless the Steeldive is ISO diver certified I don't trust the 200m as far as I can throw it. The Invicta "Pro Diver" also spouts 200m of WR and I 've seen plenty of them leak like a sieve.
The purpose of ISO 6425 is so that you know that YOUR piece has been certified to it's rating. Every ISO 6245 certified diver has been at pressure equal to 125% rated depth for 1 hour. Every piece.
The Seiko 5 GMT is not a dive watch nor does it claim to be. And while 100m is nice, and more than suitable for the pool or swimming on the surface of the ocean, there is no way I would take it snorkeling or scuba diving anymore than I would take the Steeldive.
Companies like Rolex and Omega can forego ISO certification simply because their name and reputation carry such weight. A Rolex or Omega failure at 50m would be disastrous to the brand. So they do the same level of testing on their watches in house, they simply choose not to pay ISO for the certification. However, makers of "affordable" watches do pay for ISO certification to ensure that their "divers" are properly certified.
SteelDiver, also doesn't pay ISO for the certification, but I'm confident that they don't do the same level of destructive and non-destructive testing Omega or Rolex does on their divers.
All my other watches, I take their WR ratings with a healthy grain of salt.
30M=Don't even like taking it in the rain.
50M= I'll take it in the shower
Non Diver 100M-200M=I'll only take it in the pool or surface of the ocean.
Diver 200M=Dive to max recreation depth and never worry.
Steeldive is a tool watch, what the seiko once was. The seiko is for mall shopping. I would take the SD any day.
If it was my first mech i would choose either. Mine was a seiko monster. Having a mineral on a diver is reasonable, Having it on a "fancy" diver is a flaw.
If i was on the market for a gmt i will not get an nh34 as i understand the miyota 9075, if im not mistaken, is better and affordable.
If i had to choose nh 34 i would look somewhere else then SD bc there are others better than these 2.
Only my opinion, i do not want to disrespect any seiki or SD owners.
Great review my friend!
The seiko clasp is very comfortable although its pressed and the SD will be more comfortable bc of more micro adjust holes..
Thank you for sharing! 🙂👍
steeldive forever
I love the blue color and red gmt hand of the seiko. But the steeldive does not offer dial and bezel on this color. What would be a good alternative to the steeldive? ideally under $100. The corgeut gmt is quite cheap, not blue the white dial is quite beautiful also.
Why is the SD1993 V2 rated at 300m … How else does it different from this SD1994 V2?
So Seiko is basically charging 3 times as much for an inferior product ?
Kinda... they did design it in the first place, I guess that counts for something :-) Thanks for watching! 🙂👍
@@ShinyThings Actually, it doesn't count for anything.
Bizarre that a clone has better specifications than the original with the same movement. Of course Steeldive had zero effort in creativity, but still.
It's a tool watch, not investment grade art.
Please review Tandorio GMT! It's $90
What about resale values?
Both watches are quite new, so it's a bit hard to tell. But historically SHORT TERM: SD can be resold with about 30% to 50% discount based on condition, Seiko drops by 15% to 30%, however Seiko retail price dropped already by about 10% - 15% (depending on the colorway) since the introduction a few months ago. As for the LONG TERM - my money is on Seiko 🙂 especially if it gets discontinued 😁
With the exception of the bracelet and crystal, the Seiko is a better watch. Is it a lot better than the SD? I don't think so. The SD bracelet is far superior, and the V3 version of the watch is even better with a full milled clasp. Nevertheless, I purchased the SD, mostly because I don't feel like paying 150% premium when the watches have the same movement. I'd gladly pay more for a (much) better movement, but that's not the case here. In addition, I don't like the display case. Also, I don't NEED 200m of WR, but I won't turn it down, either. I also prefer a screw-down crown...I don't really know why.
How do I put this? I am why I can't have nice things. 13:02 I would invariably wear either watch in the same situations and would be as likely to inflict damage to one as the other. While I appreciate nice things, put bluntly, I am clumsy. So if one is slightly more rugged AND is one third the price that will be my choice.
I've been watching reviews on any Seiko for under $300.... I've been unimpressed, especially when people in the reviews are modding these seikos out of the box to make them slimmer and fit better. I was settled on the Seiko srpd55k1, but after seeing it in person, I was disappointed.
Steeldive is a specs monster but Seiko simply looks better. The dial design is more important as you see it up close whenever you check the time. I have 2 steeldive watches but I found myself not wearing them often and the likes of Citizen, Orient and even Casio get more wrist time because the dial is more beautiful and a joy to look at
The Steeldive 1993 has the mercedes handset, which look WAY better than the Seiko style ones (generally I do not usually prefer mercedes handsets). The one with the black and green bezel looks pretty good. The specs of the steeldive are better in every way over the Seiko. At a fraction over $200 USD for the Steeldive, the Seiko loses big time!
Hola amigo , me acabo de comprar el GMT de steeldive color azul con bicel pepsi, es hermoso y funciona de maravilla, el único detalle es su brazalete jubilee con acabados filosos, pero le pondré una correa de silicona y se vera genial, por el precio estoy muy satisfecho, con su calidad, zafiro, corona roscada, tapa posterior de acero, movimiento nh34, muy buen reloj, saludos desde Chile.
Steel Dive all the way because the 5KX is an SKX imposter that features less water resistance than the SKX as well as the Steel Dive, but sells for around 300 bucks, which this watch isn’t worth!
I don’t trust the Chinese QC. Most of their watches are “for looks” only. Great review btw.👍🏼
So you’d rather go with a brand that has been known to have bad QC (Seiko)? Just for looks, yet all the specs and finishing crush almost all watches in this price bracket 😂
Don't forget the lauded SKX (I had several) has printed dials...fwiw
what is the model Steeldive?i cant to find in the internet
@krepkomimo Steeldive SD1994 V2 GMT
Seiko overpriced Steeldive all day long
Your link doesn't take you to that steeldive watch but another steeldive model
Great review
Приветствую.Вы заказывали на Ali express?
@krepkomimo Steeldive on AliExpress. There is a link in the description of the video or try this one, it looks like a better deal: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DeKKB7X As for Seiko, I bought it in the UK from Seiko authorised dealer. I've seen some Seikos on Ali but I'm not convinced :-) Hope this helps. Thanks for watching! 🙂👍
@@ShinyThings thank you for link. I wanted to order mako 3 kamasu, but i from Netherland and here price for kamasu around 400€. How do you think what is the watch will be better? Becouse price for Steel dive is very sweet
In terms of long term value, would people buy a vintage Seiko GMT or a Steeldive GMT? ;)
Can you compare steeldive with tandorio skx?
Just the arrogance of giving you mineral crystal at 500 us dolars
Seiko está sobrevalorado, por ese precio ya deberian de dar zafiro y y un mejor broche, me quedo con el Steeldive sin dudarlo.
Seiko all the way.
Someone has noticed if the gmt hand is misaligned?
"in house movement".... That's kind of a stretch! Same company owns the plant that makes the movement... Same company owns the various factories i guess.... But The mass produced in various factories in third book countries and a assembled there too.... The made in Japan stuff costs a lot more.... Orient used to have in house movements.... Everything used to be made and assembled in house in Japan. Not anymore.
Of course Seiko would be your first choice, since you have to really justify spending a whole lot more for any under performing Seiko… and yes, I have had a Seiko SKX-007 leak, so ISO certified is a joke
how can you give it the clasp a tie and the value to the seiko!? 😂😂
sooooo nearly double for the same watch with very few differences. The other is still all Seiko under the hood.
Seiko GMT at 550 EUR is currently available in Europe, while the SD1994, which has better characteristics, is around 70 EUR after coupons and discounts. Howeva, Seiko still come out as the winner in terms of value? )) Howeva.
Without having seen either of the two: How can you not prefer the SD?
- no pointless display case-back. The see-through variant adds cost/complexity just so you can see an NH35/34? That's like putting a transparent engine-cover on your entry level car. It's cool on a 12-cylinder Ferrari or Lamborghini, but it's a bit silly and unnecessary on a 3- or 4-banger, entry-level VW Polo.
- SD has a proper, milled clasp. Not that infuriatingly cheap looking, "1980s-style pressed-steel-made-from-old-tin-cans" abomination that Seiko still throw on theirs.
- SD has sapphire
- SD has proper WR, appropriate to the looks of the watch and its type.
And I'm sorry to have to disagree on "value", but: Who gives a crap about "in-house" movement? I don't much care about that sort of stuff on luxury or other Swiss watches, but I'd care a whole bunch less in this section of the market and if the "in house" movement in question is an NH35. A movement which can be found on a gazillion micro-brand watches and which costs way less than 100 bucks to replace.
In fact, the SD seems like incredible value to me, considering the entire packages. I'd have no problem with the Seiko's price if it offered all the things I pointed out above at that price. But 400 to 500 for a Seiko 5 without a screw-down crown, without sapphire and with a cheap-as-chips pressed clasp? You'd really have to be a huge fan of the brand to pay that kind of money when you could almost buy three SDs for the same amount.
Wow! Thank you for such a detailed analysis! I have quite a few SDs in my collection and they are amazing value! Thank you for watching! 🙂👍
@@ShinyThings I guess I just don't get Seiko and their pricing these days.. :)
@1SaG You are not alone!🙂
Steeldive offers good value for homages of 5-10k watches, but homaging a 300 dollar watch and charging 150 for it just strikes me as a bad value.
The Steeldive can't offer the Seiko name. Part of the enjoyment of watch collecting is to get watches from makers that have interesting stories and tradition. The Seiko 5 is not a super expensive watch like, say... a Royal Oak. For me, it makes no sense to get a 'homage' in this case.
The value hand down goes to seiko??? Hahah this guy was making sense until that. Another seiko fan boy. The steel dive blows the seiko out of the water. Ok the dial rates a little higher...but that's it. Stamped clasp? And it's a draw? Hahahah ok seiko paid this guy
Steeldive dials are utter trash. If this was a 150 dollar homage to a 5k watch, that would be understandable but for basically a hundred and fifty more you can have the genuine article so homages make no sense here from a value perspective
people still arguing that 100m is "enough" do not understand how specific and limited water resistance testing is, nor dynamic pressures and have never experienced a flooded watch...
Both are nice but seikos Finish makes it look better. Seiko for the win. I’ll take 1 of each. 😂😂😂
Strange to see Steeldive bezel turns in one direction only.
I have Steeldive Pepsi GMT and I think it was released before this one and it turns 120 click in both ways.
Screw both of these, Casio MWR-200H-1E is the winner.
Steeldive is 120€ nowadays. Seiko is 450€. Value point goes to steeldive all day long.
Hi you are blatantly biased in favour of the over priced seiko brand,I own both and steeldive is the one I wear the most.
Yes, when the reviewer gave the bracelet comparison a TIE without emphasizing the SD machined clasp during that COMPARE...seemed odd. Yes, it was mentioned earlier in the video...but was avoided during the compare segment.
That cyclops on the Steeldive is hiddeous. The cheap looking dial and the 120 unidirectional dive bezel on a GMT watch .....cheap. Seiko 100 m water resistance is crap. The hardlex crystal is a scratch magnet that cant be repaired . Friction bezel will wear over time or seize. The bracelet is laughable. I would not buy any of them. Its a tie!
Buy the Seiko secondhand is my conclusion.
?
Steeldive with cyclops removed, work beater…
I say SEIKO ❤
I don't really understand homages of affordable watches, but that's a personal opinion.
For me, a homage is only worth it for something I'll either never afford or not want to spend the money on.
My doxa 600t homage i could afford, but i think it's original is overpriced, so i wouldn't buy it, even used.
Simple. 1) There is no IP protection as long as the brand is not infringed. 2) "Homaging" is a cost effective go-to-market strategy, in terms of speed-to-market and market positioning. 3) If established brands are delivering poor value on the back of their brand equity...the Homage is filling a gap created by the established brand owner.
Don't but the copy. The Seiko is starting to creep more into mid 200$ USD now..get the real deal for a few dollars more.
It's not a copy. It's better.
Seiko is better looking
Steeldive ok but guarantee is useless mine went wrong and haven’t had any joy trying to get it sorted out and that’s the problem with bloggers they can tell you it’s pretty and ticks all the boxes but never tell you the after sale service is crap so go with the seiko from a reputable dealer ( not Amazon or Ali express or similar companies ) wouldn’t be so bad if I had worn the watch but it was a present and never got it out of the box until I had had it two months only to find it wasn’t working Amazon told me I had the watch over 2 months and not their problem and send it back to retailers but their address isn’t on Amazon or in the box finally found it was some place in wales uk emailed them but didn’t get a reply so take my advice and don’t end up getting stitched up !,,,,,,
Just buy a 2nd hand Seiko GMT. You can get them for 250
Seiko too garbage for me sorry :(((…
You are a watch guy and you dont wear one???
Another great review! Seiko trashes this blatant copy! Thanx mate.
Thanks for watching! 🙂👍
No,it doesn't!
Seiko grande azienda ma, i suoi orologi seppur eccezionali talvolta non mi fanno battere forte il cuore.
Certamente ad 1/3 del prezzo Seiko prenderei steel dive, alla metà, nessuno dei 2
The steeldive 15x date magnifier looks ridiculous
2.5x and distance between cyclops and dial face.
The fact that the Seiko has a push-pull crown not screw-down means it's a complete non-starter. I refuse to buy any watch that's built like a dive watch which doesn't have a screw-down crown. Sorry Seiko - you dun screwed up by not screwing down!
Seiko is lighter and better
I bought a Steeldive Rolex homage to try out the brand. Terrible experience. I still have it in one of the watch cases but I'll never buy another.
What’s wrong with it?
I have the same watch. Received mine in 5 days, runs about 5 seconds fast per day. Thr lume is insanely bright.. Great beater watch that I get tons of compliments on.
It’s not a true GMT.
Yes, its more a dual purpose DIVER and GMT.
They are both awful... for me
1st
All automatic watches should have open backs. I would not buy just for that