Equally if you put the Rolex to your ear you will hear the equivalent of a classic turntable with a decent stylus playing an original print. If you put the GS to your ear you are hearing a low bitrate stream of the same song via soundcloud. I own a Spring Drive and a Rolex. They are both great but they are different. The GS is way more accurate and better finished too. But when you wind it it feels like winding up a kinder egg toy. It isn’t truely mechanical in the same sense a Zenith El Primero is or a Rolex is etc. Some people don’t care abt that, some people do.
@@TheRunningManZ Odd that winding the main spring would feel so different. A watch's escapement does not impact the tactile feedback of the power train (which operates the same between the Rolex and GS SD). I disagree with those who believe the conversion of kinetic energy into electrical, and it's usage via a self attenuating mechanism in the spring drive escapement, removes the watch from the truly mechanical category. We can attribute nostalgia, and feelings of quality, what is right and what isn't to anything, and it's unfortunate the cool new kid on the block is now being bullied in this foreign sense.
Im sorry but giving Rolex “Mechanical complexiness” over the springdrive isnt fair in my opinion. The springdrive has much more innovation and is a pretty complex creation I think..
Spring drive is a 50+ year old technology, it’s a new innovation but considering the computer age and everything, I’d think there is EVEN BETTER technology than SD...
Grand Seiko is a truly aspirational piece for me. I can't see myself wanting to spend more than that on a watch. That smooth sweep and the attention to detail. For me it's a no brainer.
I own a number of watches, but my SBGC003 spring drive GMT chronograph is by far my favorite. Truly a masterpiece, kudos to Seiko for such a magnificent piece of engineering and artisanship.
Twenty-eight years ago, I bought my first Rolex GMT. For the next twenty years I was a Rolex fanboy, and a bit of a watch snob. Fast forward to today, and I’m very lucky to own the Batman and the Grand Seiko GMT in titanium. Which one give me more pleasure? It’s the Grand Seiko every time.
With each generation, Rolex watches was getting heavier. Today's Batman is much heavier than the GMT 1675 or 16750. It's time for Rolex to consider offering TItanium versions.
For me, Rolex is for watches what Moët is for champagne….. the brand people choose when they have no idea. There’s definitely a brand tax added to Rolex
I own one. Thickness isnt a problem. To me the onl thint that should be updated is the clasp. There is no microadjustment and that paired with the clasp makes it grab your shirt when the bracelet is slightly too loose or tight.
@@DutchClawz Tried one on at a dealer, and felt that Grand Seiko handled the thickness very well, definitely wears smaller in both diameter and thickness. However, when you try on a 40mm Rolex at 12mm thick, the fitment is just completely different.
I just picked up a GS snowflake and I'm gladly surprised at how well ot sits on my small 16.5 cm wrists. the thickness is just enough for me. as for the clasp I also thought it was flimsy at the beginning but after wearing for a few days, it's actually pretty good. tolerances are right and nothing rattles. I think the lightness of the titanium makes it feel cheaper than it really is
I've been saying this for a long time. There's a size and thickness problem in GS 's catalog. Yes they have some "finer" watches but they're far between. Most are too chunky !
@A. B. I guess it's tough to slim down the spring drive movement... They make regular automatic GMT's in smaller cases, though these are usually dressier.
@@stephenmeade8501 The automatic are monsters aswell. The problem is that they are usually 40mm, a pretty good diameter, but 13.5mm or more thickness, which is quite tubby already, but for a very dressy watch it's just far too thick. The GS divers are much nicer, they are 44mm and spread their thickness over a larger area and yet maintain a relatively compact lug to lug. I think they need to focus on bringing out larger diameter movements, most of them are quite small even for a 40mm case, spread the mechanics over a larger area and thin out the watch. But GS hasn't really had a large movement overhaul since they were first released so it's unlikely to happen.
By the by, the power reserve indicator is actually useful, the reason being that winding either watch down screws up the local and UTC relationship. If you are doing work that requires you to take your watch off, it's nice to be able to tell at a glance if you should wind it manually.
This is why Watchfinder & Co. is my favorite watch reviewer. History (check), Microscopic detail (check), Opinion (uncheck). Rolex makes Rolex, Seiko makes Seiko, Grand Seiko and Credor. Watchmaker can make a masterpiece and a $35 movement and everything within the watch world all the way to minute repeater of Credor. I say I tip my hat to Seiko as a watchmaker.
Potential Customer: Hello Rolex AD, I have considered your GMT and a fine Grand Seiko. I like yours better and would like to buy one. Rolex AD: Have you bought watches from us before? Potential Customer: Well, no, I haven't.... Rolex AD: Let me put you on our waiting list and we MIGHT call you if we get a spare one in. Potential Customer: I don't like your attitude. I can walk in and get a Grand Seiko today. Rolex AD: Tut Tut. You just don't get it. Go away now. Potential customer buys the Grand Seiko and vows never to do business with Rolex again...
This is me. I want a quality steel sports but don't fancy getting bummed in the preowned market...and going to a Rolex ad is pointless because I actually want a watch, not no watch.
Nailed it. The idea of just choosing, and walking away with, a new Batman is a happy fiction. Of course, it might be different if you deal in pre-owned...
@@arbiterofreason2068 give it another 1-2 months and a major economic crash and watch availability jump up and market prices jump down. Might as well make the best of a bad situation
7:17 to 8:24. The impeccable level of detail on grand Seiko. There are lot more of such details, you just need to keep looking. In craft and quality , the grand Seiko clearly outperforms the Rolex. If you're going to pick the Rolex anyway, why make the comparison at all?
Loved the video. This time I came prepared with a drooling towel thus avoiding messing my phone screen. I chose the GS GMT Spring Drive & I’m thrilled to the eyebrows. It’s a beautiful wristwatch. It has a mechanical movement with quartz accuracy & no battery. The main spring powers the movement but electronics regulates its accuracy.
Great vid! I just noticed that GS has the 24 hour markers on the inner chapter ring, so you really can track 3 time zones! I wish the GS was a bit thinner / sleek and less bulky. I’ve been wanting to try the spring drive, but the designs just don’t speak to me
As a materials engineer studying surface treatments, I have to say that it's a pleasure to listen to all the details of this review. Just wish the upload would be more frequent, I'm addicted to your content mr Watchfinder!
the problem for GS is they really miss a lot of important design elements: watch too big, mediocre bracelet also all their watch are either for dress (no glow indexes) or for sports only not like Rolex : sports watch is also good for dress watch they have good techniques but the design and marketing are way behind
Not only that, but talk to any GS owner that wears their watch daily...that finishing on the titanium case, bracelet, and clasp looks totally dogged out by scratches with everyday wear...
The Rolex looks way better as an "sporty" watch, I like some Grand Seiko but the Batman, the Cellini Moon Phase, and the Datejust gray dial are my favorites watches from Rolex.
For me it’s the bracelet. I don’t like the complexity of it. Like Omégas,you have 3 unpolished parts and two small polished one. I’d rather have something more simple. It’s too round as well IMO.
@@arbiterofreason2068 Personal opinion of mine but aside from the dial itself and the movement of a GS, the rest of the watch isn't the most aesthetically pleasing tbh. The sandwich power gauge is someone only a mother can love. The clasps are surprisingly bad for the price. Watch is a little too thick and throws off the proportions. Bracelet is a little mundane.
@@arbiterofreason2068 Those are admittedly great, but they compete more with the Datejust, whereas the market right now is focused heavily on sports watches. Grand Seikos fall seriously flat in that department
I finally got an SBGE001 like the one in this video after drooling over them for nearly 10 years, and I can confidently say that as long as you're not overly concerned about the thickness it does not disappoint. I had a Seiko Sumo before and this similarly wears smaller than its actual dimensions and is super comfortable.
@@mr.aleximer If you keep an eye out and are patient it's possible to get a really good deal on these! I specifically waited for the 001 with the SEIKO branding at the top, but if you're willing to get the 201 that has the newer GS logo at the top then that more than doubles the possibilities. I got mine with an extra bezel (I've heard these are $500 but also impossible to find) and just coming off a fresh service at the GS USA service center for $3,750. If you're patient enough I bet you could get an even better deal than that!
This review missed a key element: the GS has the 24-hour scale on the dial as well as the bezel, allowing for instant reading of time in 3 time zones. The GMT Master II owners claim to be able to do the same, but I don't see how you can do it instantly without doing some math since the dial has no 24-hour scale.
Great video. Had the chance to select either of these recently. Had always wanted a Rolex GMT, Pepsi. Did my research. Checked them both out...had a AO with each.....and funds. Was actually leaning Rolex before checking them both out. Researched the movements, etc. I bought the Seiko. It is truly a better watch.
How in watches heaven do you make lume glow all of a sudden? I can't tell if it is clever editing or there's more to it and it's killing me cause it looks SO NICE
As you rightly mention with GS the detail is key. I am fortunate enough to own both brands (and in the current world climate I genuinely mean fortunate enough - after all they are only trinkets), and the finish on my GS 60th anniversary is impeccable. The Zaratsu polishing is like nothing I have ever seen elsewhere and the deep blue of the dial is like looking into the sea - just so much depth. I like a little colour on my watches as the watch can look so different depending on light. My Hulk comes alive in sunlight, but the GS dial is a game changer - especially with the Zaratsu polished hands and dials markers (who else would Zaratsu polish the reverse of the hands so that when they cross you can see this has been done) contrasting with the depth of the blue dial. In short, this competition will never happen in the modern real world of watch brand snobbery and resale values. Your pre-owned Rolex will sell at a huge premium - if you have a purchase history and can get one at retail - and (most if not all) pre-owned GS’ sell at a loss. Until Grand Seiko can make their brand as aspirational in Europe as Rolex they will never compete. If you want something of the very highest quality that does not attract the ‘wrong’ attention, and that you can actually buy without a wait (or massive premium), then it will be Grand Seiko. If you want something that says look I’m successful because I have a Rolex, well there is your answer. Sorry for the rambling comment (bored with my isolation having had COVID 19), love the videos though - particularly the less usual brands. Great to inform people that the watch world isn’t just about Rolex. Maybe something about Möser in the future?
I think the quality of the GS is great, Rolex is maybe a little less but still great. But, and for me it is a great but, the Rolex looks so much nicer on the naked eye. The GS, and I see it also in some GS divers, is badly balanced, not beautiful. They do not always please the (my) eyes. So for me no GS.
MrT Baracus I’m a huge GS fan. I prefer GS to almost every other brand, but in this video, between these two watches, I must agree, the Rolex is better balanced aesthetically, thus more visually pleasing. You got it 100% correct in my opinion.
It's not your age, I'm 71 and I think the GS looks more refined. BTW, I have both the Batman and the Batgirl and I just bought a new GS GMT. Couldn't stand the fact that it is a better watched in the rolex, needed to have it.
That’s what I thought when I bought my Explorer II Polar White but... when I got the Batgirl I realized that they are extremely different although I like them both. If I had to choose only one, I would probably stay with the GMT Master II.
@@eldiabolico3750 I traded my Exp II Polar against a GMT Pepsi. I don't regret it but it would have been nice to have kept it. I liked the Explorer but it was a bit too big and the bracelet taper looked awkward, although it sat flatter to my wrist than the GMT does. In white it really stood out. I received a lot of comments on that watch whereas the Pepsi seems to go unnoticed, strangely enough.
The video could have been summed up perfectly by the last sentence "There's more to being a human than being logic". I keep marveling at this man's way with words.
Dear Watchfinder guy, I'm just getting into watches and really love your well-made videos. Really, you're doing a great job! I'd love to see a Video about the Ulysse Nardin Tellurium. My father inherited one from my late grandfather many years ago and I'd love to learn something about that watch as I'm very interested in astronomy as well. And again, keep up the great work!
@pyrotechnic5254 It seems to matter to those in broadcasting where they do operate to the second, but in general I agree. However if it doesn't matter, why mention it? I'm only correcting because it is mentioned and it's factually wrong.
Build quality is vague, and the GS doesn't have every aspect of the build quality down. The finishing, GS takes the cake. But with it comes to things like bezel action, bracelet feel, robustness, the Rolex comes ahead.
Though I'm into GMTs myself. I can't help but find myself drawn to just how iconic the Rolex is. Not too long ago I held a GS and although I disliked the spring drive movement I can say that the quality was amazing.
Seiko Single handedly destroyed all Swiss watchmakers in Chronological accuracy competition in the 60s. The Swiss then disbanded the Competition. In 2009 they started the competition again with the condition that all watch parts must be made in Europe eliminating any chance of Seiko humiliating them Again. Swiss watchmakers are Classless. If you are really into watch and truly care about legacy, Quality and innovation then Go for Seiko. If you are not into watch and buy things that might appreciate in value for no apparent reason then go for Rolex.
Usually I am all for Grand Seiko (especially Spring Drive), but there's is something incredibly spectacular about the Batman. I honestly don't know what it is exactly, but it just feels ... right, i guess.
To me I look at the entire package than just a few details. The Rolex overall looks more pleasing to my eyes than the GS. Somehow the Rolex looks more "balance" (hard to describe).
There is no competition here. The Rolex GMT is clearly the better looking watch. The fact that Seiko dares not price it above Rolex says it all. Many reviewers think that comparing Seiko with the other Swiss established brands is doing Seiko a favour. Quite the opposite because when I am bombarded day and night with Seiko ads, I get so sick that I tell myself never to buy a Seiko, any Seiko.
Really? I'm not seeing the same watches. That Rolex is so busy with its design. And there is that hideous magnification window. I definitely think the Seiko is more eye catching and more attractive
They still haven’t gotten any better either. As soon as seiko released spring drive they surpassed anything Rolex offers the finish of the grand Seiko is much better too your paying for the brand grand seiko offers a better watch in every way on paper for a fraction of the price and any metal you can think of including titanium Rolex doesn’t offer that besides Tudor to the best of my knowledge
We know you want more watches…. click here: linktr.ee/watchfinder
The Rolex second hand is moving like 1080p 30fps, while Seiko is at 60fps in 4K..
Hahahh accurately put sir
Equally if you put the Rolex to your ear you will hear the equivalent of a classic turntable with a decent stylus playing an original print. If you put the GS to your ear you are hearing a low bitrate stream of the same song via soundcloud.
I own a Spring Drive and a Rolex. They are both great but they are different. The GS is way more accurate and better finished too. But when you wind it it feels like winding up a kinder egg toy. It isn’t truely mechanical in the same sense a Zenith El Primero is or a Rolex is etc. Some people don’t care abt that, some people do.
It's more like 8 fps vs 32768 fps, really.
@@TheRunningManZ Odd that winding the main spring would feel so different. A watch's escapement does not impact the tactile feedback of the power train (which operates the same between the Rolex and GS SD).
I disagree with those who believe the conversion of kinetic energy into electrical, and it's usage via a self attenuating mechanism in the spring drive escapement, removes the watch from the truly mechanical category.
We can attribute nostalgia, and feelings of quality, what is right and what isn't to anything, and it's unfortunate the cool new kid on the block is now being bullied in this foreign sense.
@@TheRunningManZ Nah, SD is high bit rate 😉
Im sorry but giving Rolex “Mechanical complexiness” over the springdrive isnt fair in my opinion. The springdrive has much more innovation and is a pretty complex creation I think..
You don't have to be sorry ;)
Spring drive is a 50+ year old technology, it’s a new innovation but considering the computer age and everything, I’d think there is EVEN BETTER technology than SD...
lexus or rolls royce, fair comparison analogy?
T G it’s not. 20 years old and far more advanced than any 3-4 hander automatic
RC Robinson-san GS=Lexus, Rolex=Mercedes Benz, AP is Porsche, Patek and Lange is Rollsroyce and Maybach
Grand Seiko is a truly aspirational piece for me. I can't see myself wanting to spend more than that on a watch. That smooth sweep and the attention to detail. For me it's a no brainer.
That sweep is truly unbelievable and mesmerising.
That spring drive sweep is soooo damn satisfying even in a video.
I just can’t get over how smooth the second hand on the GS. It’s incredible
How you guys make the watches look a hundred times better than in person is amazing. Clarity of recordings is tremendous........great work
"There's so much more to being human than logic."
Wise words
Behavioral Economics :)
Strong words. They got me too.
I own a number of watches, but my SBGC003 spring drive GMT chronograph is by far my favorite. Truly a masterpiece, kudos to Seiko for such a magnificent piece of engineering and artisanship.
I love that last line. "There is so much more to being human than logic"
Either would be fine, if funds allowed...but I just can’t ignore the innovation and sheer quality finish of the Seiko.
6:40
WTF was this Sound Effect
Please NEVER EVER do this again
It was a joke. Not the funniest one but a joke.
Seriously wtf was that?
pull the stick out of you ass, man.
@@Gogugogugogu If my name was dominik id feel the same
@@Gogugogugogu He can't. It's in there sideways and permanently.
Twenty-eight years ago, I bought my first Rolex GMT. For the next twenty years I was a Rolex fanboy, and a bit of a watch snob.
Fast forward to today, and I’m very lucky to own the Batman and the Grand Seiko GMT in titanium.
Which one give me more pleasure?
It’s the Grand Seiko every time.
With each generation, Rolex watches was getting heavier. Today's Batman is much heavier than the GMT 1675 or 16750. It's time for Rolex to consider offering TItanium versions.
@Junior Mudd Sir what time is it? Time for you to be robbed...lol
boo
boo
For me, Rolex is for watches what Moët is for champagne….. the brand people choose when they have no idea. There’s definitely a brand tax added to Rolex
To me, the Grand Seiko needs to get a better clasp, and be slightly thinner. I don't know if it's a big enough deal when you're actually wearing it.
I own one. Thickness isnt a problem. To me the onl thint that should be updated is the clasp. There is no microadjustment and that paired with the clasp makes it grab your shirt when the bracelet is slightly too loose or tight.
I have one of these and it's phenomenal
@@DutchClawz Tried one on at a dealer, and felt that Grand Seiko handled the thickness very well, definitely wears smaller in both diameter and thickness. However, when you try on a 40mm Rolex at 12mm thick, the fitment is just completely different.
GS clasps are actually quite good in real life.
I just picked up a GS snowflake and I'm gladly surprised at how well ot sits on my small 16.5 cm wrists. the thickness is just enough for me. as for the clasp I also thought it was flimsy at the beginning but after wearing for a few days, it's actually pretty good. tolerances are right and nothing rattles. I think the lightness of the titanium makes it feel cheaper than it really is
Grand Seiko are so classy, but their watches are too big. Rolex get most of their dimensions right.
I've been saying this for a long time.
There's a size and thickness problem in GS 's catalog. Yes they have some "finer" watches but they're far between.
Most are too chunky !
A. B. yeah its funny. some of their chronos, which will never be picked over an omega or g shock as a tool/dive watch, are 44mm!!
@A. B. I guess it's tough to slim down the spring drive movement... They make regular automatic GMT's in smaller cases, though these are usually dressier.
agreed. if GS shrunk all their watches by 2mm, I think they would actually compete for enthusiast dollars over Rolex.
@@stephenmeade8501 The automatic are monsters aswell.
The problem is that they are usually 40mm, a pretty good diameter, but 13.5mm or more thickness, which is quite tubby already, but for a very dressy watch it's just far too thick.
The GS divers are much nicer, they are 44mm and spread their thickness over a larger area and yet maintain a relatively compact lug to lug.
I think they need to focus on bringing out larger diameter movements, most of them are quite small even for a 40mm case, spread the mechanics over a larger area and thin out the watch.
But GS hasn't really had a large movement overhaul since they were first released so it's unlikely to happen.
By the by, the power reserve indicator is actually useful, the reason being that winding either watch down screws up the local and UTC relationship. If you are doing work that requires you to take your watch off, it's nice to be able to tell at a glance if you should wind it manually.
It's a good day when watchfinder releases a new video.
This is why Watchfinder & Co. is my favorite watch reviewer. History (check), Microscopic detail (check), Opinion (uncheck). Rolex makes Rolex, Seiko makes Seiko, Grand Seiko and Credor. Watchmaker can make a masterpiece and a $35 movement and everything within the watch world all the way to minute repeater of Credor. I say I tip my hat to Seiko as a watchmaker.
ROLEX MAKES ROLEX AND TUDOR
Potential Customer: Hello Rolex AD, I have considered your GMT and a fine Grand Seiko. I like yours better and would like to buy one.
Rolex AD: Have you bought watches from us before?
Potential Customer: Well, no, I haven't....
Rolex AD: Let me put you on our waiting list and we MIGHT call you if we get a spare one in.
Potential Customer: I don't like your attitude. I can walk in and get a Grand Seiko today.
Rolex AD: Tut Tut. You just don't get it. Go away now.
Potential customer buys the Grand Seiko and vows never to do business with Rolex again...
Thats not how luxury veblen goods work.
This is me. I want a quality steel sports but don't fancy getting bummed in the preowned market...and going to a Rolex ad is pointless because I actually want a watch, not no watch.
Nailed it. The idea of just choosing, and walking away with, a new Batman is a happy fiction. Of course, it might be different if you deal in pre-owned...
do you really think you know better than Rolex?
@@arbiterofreason2068 give it another 1-2 months and a major economic crash and watch availability jump up and market prices jump down. Might as well make the best of a bad situation
The only Rolex I’d actually want against the only GS I don’t.
The most perfect comment, right here.
Yes! You have found the words I have been struggling with here!
I meant! Mhmm
7:17 to 8:24. The impeccable level of detail on grand Seiko. There are lot more of such details, you just need to keep looking. In craft and quality , the grand Seiko clearly outperforms the Rolex. If you're going to pick the Rolex anyway, why make the comparison at all?
Loved the video. This time I came prepared with a drooling towel thus avoiding messing my phone screen. I chose the GS GMT Spring Drive & I’m thrilled to the eyebrows. It’s a beautiful wristwatch. It has a mechanical movement with quartz accuracy & no battery. The main spring powers the movement but electronics regulates its accuracy.
Great vid!
I just noticed that GS has the 24 hour markers on the inner chapter ring, so you really can track 3 time zones!
I wish the GS was a bit thinner / sleek and less bulky. I’ve been wanting to try the spring drive, but the designs just don’t speak to me
Finally my be loved SBGE001 is on the show. Thank you
Watchfinder & Co., you made my insomnia night so much better than it is
If only the grand seiko was slightly smaller, a grand seiko diver 40mm would be extremely desirable
and with a 3 o clock date window/crown
@@mrsir1872 agreed. The 4 o'clock date puts me off
As a materials engineer studying surface treatments, I have to say that it's a pleasure to listen to all the details of this review. Just wish the upload would be more frequent, I'm addicted to your content mr Watchfinder!
To be successful in the entertainment industry they have to leave us wanting more👀🙃
Why is part of the Grand Seiko between the 3 and 430 section blurred out @ 4:53 ? And the Rolex has the same issue a few seconds before that..
I don't think the Grand Seiko design quite works. There are too many clashing design elements, it looks like 3 different watches.
The power reserve needs to die
Yea and the links and clasp design makes it look cheap. It's to much detail all around.
Right? For example, I don't understand why they've put SEIKO on top and Grand Seiko on the bottom?
@@Denis-bq8kr they have been doing that since forever. it is superfluous, but they obviously do not care. would never buy a grand seiko.
That's why I have three sports rolex and no grand seiko. But i have three of the sarb series seiko. No GS.
I can think of no TH-cam video on watches that can compare with Watchfinder & Co. Well done.
the problem for GS is they really miss a lot of important design elements:
watch too big, mediocre bracelet
also all their watch are either for dress (no glow indexes) or for sports only
not like Rolex : sports watch is also good for dress watch
they have good techniques but the design and marketing are way behind
Exactly right
Seiko and GS just have to much different models en lines ! They need to narrow down there line
Exactly
You got it spot on!
Not only that, but talk to any GS owner that wears their watch daily...that finishing on the titanium case, bracelet, and clasp looks totally dogged out by scratches with everyday wear...
No need for the sound effects. Your voice is the best sound that your videos need. Yet another awesome video. Thanks
When GS release a 39mm Snowflake GMT it'll be a more interesting battle.
And yes I'm aware of the SBGE209.
6:39 Threw me off! I thought there was a crash outside my office, or the flintstones were stopping ny.
At a glance the Rolex GMT just feels so right
Pramudyo Bayu Pamungkas Could it look any more generic?
@@Sandouras the only reason it looks "generic" is that everyone else is copying their design - imitation is the best form of flattery.
until you goot them and t feel too small...
Great video as always. Constructively, the tire screech effect definitely felt out of place with the Watchfinder vibe IMHO.
The Rolex looks way better as an "sporty" watch, I like some Grand Seiko but the Batman, the Cellini Moon Phase, and the Datejust gray dial are my favorites watches from Rolex.
You are a man of great taste! I completely agree with your opinions about those three Rolexes!
Can somebody please tell me the artist and title of the background music? I need to know that to treat my anxiety of not knowing what it is!
That smooth sweep on the Grand Seiko speaks to me.
The Seiko is too big. Dial too busy also. And dirt inside the dial seen at 4:08...
So off it goes.
As always the GS is just too thick. They need to make thinner watches to win more fans.
This is the first valid complaint about the GS I have read so far.
For me it’s the bracelet. I don’t like the complexity of it. Like Omégas,you have 3 unpolished parts and two small polished one. I’d rather have something more simple. It’s too round as well IMO.
Plus it has the power reserve indicator which I don’t think looks good on any watch. Just looks cheap and unnecessary and clutters the face.
thickness and the awful bracelets
So the question is: Do you buy a GMT master or a Grand Seiko and black bay with a navitimer?
SEIKO have to improvise their "eyecatching" side to win the game!
Tell that to the snowflake or their new seasons range!
Improvise? Do you even English?
@@arbiterofreason2068 Personal opinion of mine but aside from the dial itself and the movement of a GS, the rest of the watch isn't the most aesthetically pleasing tbh. The sandwich power gauge is someone only a mother can love. The clasps are surprisingly bad for the price. Watch is a little too thick and throws off the proportions. Bracelet is a little mundane.
But ...Seiko copied that ugly rolex 'cyclops' bump to their divers. Both are flawed.
@@arbiterofreason2068 Those are admittedly great, but they compete more with the Datejust, whereas the market right now is focused heavily on sports watches. Grand Seikos fall seriously flat in that department
Is that a scratch on the second hand at 7:45? How'd that get there?
I always vote for GS.but not this time.ROLEX is just perfect in size and shape.
I know it's all just personal but for me the Rolex proportions are wrong, the bezel dominates, its two wide and over shadows the dial
@ Until I see someone actually diving with a GS, in my opinion it would've been a better bet to cater to the mainstream audience
@ I'd argue there are more people who take their Submariner or Seiko SKX diving than they are Grand Seikos.
Could we see a video for the grand seiko sbgh267 please?
I finally got an SBGE001 like the one in this video after drooling over them for nearly 10 years, and I can confidently say that as long as you're not overly concerned about the thickness it does not disappoint. I had a Seiko Sumo before and this similarly wears smaller than its actual dimensions and is super comfortable.
Living our dreams.
@@mr.aleximer If you keep an eye out and are patient it's possible to get a really good deal on these! I specifically waited for the 001 with the SEIKO branding at the top, but if you're willing to get the 201 that has the newer GS logo at the top then that more than doubles the possibilities. I got mine with an extra bezel (I've heard these are $500 but also impossible to find) and just coming off a fresh service at the GS USA service center for $3,750. If you're patient enough I bet you could get an even better deal than that!
If you want to earn your money in a flip, easily Rolex. If you compared the actual construction etc. pretty close and maybe even the GS!
I've noticed that when seen under macro, Rolex doesn't hold up anywhere as well as Grand Seiko.
I thought the opposite.
Consists of*
One does not use 'of' after 'comprises'!
This is like the national geographic channel of watches
GS model name plz ...
This review missed a key element: the GS has the 24-hour scale on the dial as well as the bezel, allowing for instant reading of time in 3 time zones. The GMT Master II owners claim to be able to do the same, but I don't see how you can do it instantly without doing some math since the dial has no 24-hour scale.
What is the retail of the Seiko ?
Great video. Had the chance to select either of these recently. Had always wanted a Rolex GMT, Pepsi. Did my research. Checked them both out...had a AO with each.....and funds. Was actually leaning Rolex before checking them both out. Researched the movements, etc. I bought the Seiko. It is truly a better watch.
Agreed, i own a GS GMT spring drive and i believe it to be far superior to the Rolex.
Another great review, though I had to go back over the tyre screeching @ 6:39 a couple of times to make sure I wasn't hearing a rogue pop-up advert!
"After all, there's so much more to being human than logic" I love that!
This is a powerful message..
This just got all the negative part of the rolex GMT people told me out of my head
Which would YOU buy sir?
I feel like the GS would be a slam dunk winner if they could get it to have the same size specifications as the Rolex.
Ya easily just needs a lil 'tune up' on the bracelt and clasp haha soooo badically the rolex beats it out in many aspects :p
How in watches heaven do you make lume glow all of a sudden? I can't tell if it is clever editing or there's more to it and it's killing me cause it looks SO NICE
Although I usually prefer GS, I'm surprised that there seems to be an imperfection on the GS at 4:08 compared to how clean the rolex's hands look
Very sharp observation, unless it’s a spot of moisture on the sapphire crystal and light projecting it onto the hand that is very disturbing.
Thank you for making this video - despite of your voice suggesting the weather caught you. Stay safe brother!
As you rightly mention with GS the detail is key. I am fortunate enough to own both brands (and in the current world climate I genuinely mean fortunate enough - after all they are only trinkets), and the finish on my GS 60th anniversary is impeccable. The Zaratsu polishing is like nothing I have ever seen elsewhere and the deep blue of the dial is like looking into the sea - just so much depth. I like a little colour on my watches as the watch can look so different depending on light. My Hulk comes alive in sunlight, but the GS dial is a game changer - especially with the Zaratsu polished hands and dials markers (who else would Zaratsu polish the reverse of the hands so that when they cross you can see this has been done) contrasting with the depth of the blue dial.
In short, this competition will never happen in the modern real world of watch brand snobbery and resale values. Your pre-owned Rolex will sell at a huge premium - if you have a purchase history and can get one at retail - and (most if not all) pre-owned GS’ sell at a loss. Until Grand Seiko can make their brand as aspirational in Europe as Rolex they will never compete.
If you want something of the very highest quality that does not attract the ‘wrong’ attention, and that you can actually buy without a wait (or massive premium), then it will be Grand Seiko. If you want something that says look I’m successful because I have a Rolex, well there is your answer.
Sorry for the rambling comment (bored with my isolation having had COVID 19), love the videos though - particularly the less usual brands. Great to inform people that the watch world isn’t just about Rolex.
Maybe something about Möser in the future?
A really informative and beautiful comparison review.. would be better if date adjustments are shown individually.
I love GS, but c'mon, man... That Batman is gorgeous 🔥
Why is the 17:00 upside down on the GS?
at 5:22
That power reserve indication on the GS looks so out of place..... either remove it totally, or place at the 9'oclock area.....
How does one buy the GMT Master II 1267108BLNR against list price?
I think the quality of the GS is great, Rolex is maybe a little less but still great. But, and for me it is a great but, the Rolex looks so much nicer on the naked eye. The GS, and I see it also in some GS divers, is badly balanced, not beautiful. They do not always please the (my) eyes. So for me no GS.
MrT Baracus I’m a huge GS fan. I prefer GS to almost every other brand, but in this video, between these two watches, I must agree, the Rolex is better balanced aesthetically, thus more visually pleasing. You got it 100% correct in my opinion.
I agree - I like a few GS's of course, but some the design is just a bit all over the place compared to the simple perfection of the Batman
Completely agree with your thought. I would pick the Rolex. It just looks more pleasing to the eyes for me than the GS.
Love the crispiness of the GS and spring drive movement. Very very elegant.
Kind of sounds like someone is showing symptoms. I hope you're doing OK Watchfinder Dude.
Is it the same guy? Sounds different
If you want to tell your success story, show a rolex. If you want to talk watches, show a grand seiko.
If you prefer the Batman, you'll have a long wait if you want to pay RRP, long enough to make that trip to Boots to buy a tube of KY in readiness.
Maybe Rolex will increase supply to ADs for declining demand
Could you please make a video about the history of Blancpain or Breguet? I would really love that!
I have the SBGE201G. Same one but with GS below the "12". Amazing watch and super accurate.
Steve J Louis what is the retail cost of the Seiko do you know?
@@petefinn6000 I managed to buy it last December for roughly 4100USD. Got a good discount. Retail was just under 6k.
@@stevejlouis5446 That's an amazing price. Where did you buy it from?
In this video I heard the voice a little changed, I hope it is not due to illness. Take care. Great content as always.
I dont know if its because im younger - but the look of GS is more eye catching
Yes, and that is esp. the case when the light catches that sapphire bezel. Wow, that's a sight!
It's not your age, I'm 71 and I think the GS looks more refined. BTW, I have both the Batman and the Batgirl and I just bought a new GS GMT. Couldn't stand the fact that it is a better watched in the rolex, needed to have it.
wpc good on ya!
Isn't that GS watch bezel is made it by sapphire crystal?
could you show the seiko LX SNR033J
Nothing like Rolex, but instead GMT i prefer the EXPLORER II.
Great Video, thanks a lot.
That’s what I thought when I bought my Explorer II Polar White but... when I got the Batgirl I realized that they are extremely different although I like them both. If I had to choose only one, I would probably stay with the GMT Master II.
@@eldiabolico3750 I traded my Exp II Polar against a GMT Pepsi. I don't regret it but it would have been nice to have kept it. I liked the Explorer but it was a bit too big and the bracelet taper looked awkward, although it sat flatter to my wrist than the GMT does. In white it really stood out. I received a lot of comments on that watch whereas the Pepsi seems to go unnoticed, strangely enough.
The video could have been summed up perfectly by the last sentence "There's more to being a human than being logic". I keep marveling at this man's way with words.
4:58 What is that on the right side moving towards the watch? Weird.
Time distortion from the 5th dimension
Dear Watchfinder guy, I'm just getting into watches and really love your well-made videos. Really, you're doing a great job!
I'd love to see a Video about the Ulysse Nardin Tellurium. My father inherited one from my late grandfather many years ago and I'd love to learn something about that watch as I'm very interested in astronomy as well.
And again, keep up the great work!
As much as I'm in love with the amazing quality of GS, on this one I would go for the perfect design and wearability of the Rolex.
Hey man, review the "Christophe claret" please?
Can search on AliExpress for a Rolex GMT copy. Haven't seen copies of the Grand Seiko.
Please review the longines heritage conquest, ORIS 65 40mm with the bronze bezel edge, Omega Seamaster 300 (not the diver 300m).
The Grand Seiko's accuracy isn't 2 seconds a day - it's 1/2 a second a day, a maximum of 15 seconds per month, but almost always far less than that.
@pyrotechnic5254 It seems to matter to those in broadcasting where they do operate to the second, but in general I agree. However if it doesn't matter, why mention it? I'm only correcting because it is mentioned and it's factually wrong.
I hate that the gmt hand on the rolex is not the exact blue of the bezel
In terms of build quality it has to be the Grand Seiko in terms of “street cred” it’s the Rolex
Build quality is vague, and the GS doesn't have every aspect of the build quality down. The finishing, GS takes the cake. But with it comes to things like bezel action, bracelet feel, robustness, the Rolex comes ahead.
In terms of design and artistry, GS is the best I love it. Hire me whatever, in a month I want one GS😂
Though I'm into GMTs myself. I can't help but find myself drawn to just how iconic the Rolex is. Not too long ago I held a GS and although I disliked the spring drive movement I can say that the quality was amazing.
why do you dislike the sprint drive?
Looks like this is an older GS. About a year or so ago the dropped the “SEIKO” from the top of the watch face and replaced that with a stylized “GS”.
They use their preowned stock for the vids. The GS is a lot better now. GS and the power reserve on the back on a lot of models
Seiko Single handedly destroyed all Swiss watchmakers in Chronological accuracy competition in the 60s. The Swiss then disbanded the Competition. In 2009 they started the competition again with the condition that all watch parts must be made in Europe eliminating any chance of Seiko humiliating them Again. Swiss watchmakers are Classless. If you are really into watch and truly care about legacy, Quality and innovation then Go for Seiko. If you are not into watch and buy things that might appreciate in value for no apparent reason then go for Rolex.
What’s with the sound effect at 6:40?
Usually I am all for Grand Seiko (especially Spring Drive), but there's is something incredibly spectacular about the Batman. I honestly don't know what it is exactly, but it just feels ... right, i guess.
it brings out your inner child whilst the gs makes you have to adult.
Arbiter Of Reason interesting perspective.
@@ewhyte8059 i think that's why women don't like hulks etc
Now this could be the best video on the channel. All the right questions.
to me Grand Seiko wins hands down. that smooth second hand s beautiful
Ok grandpa
To me I look at the entire package than just a few details. The Rolex overall looks more pleasing to my eyes than the GS. Somehow the Rolex looks more "balance" (hard to describe).
There is no competition here. The Rolex GMT is clearly the better looking watch. The fact that Seiko dares not price it above Rolex says it all. Many reviewers think that comparing Seiko with the other Swiss established brands is doing Seiko a favour. Quite the opposite because when I am bombarded day and night with Seiko ads, I get so sick that I tell myself never to buy a Seiko, any Seiko.
Really? I'm not seeing the same watches. That Rolex is so busy with its design. And there is that hideous magnification window. I definitely think the Seiko is more eye catching and more attractive
I just got a BLNR jubilee for my graduation and I can't be more happy with a watch. My next watch would be an SBGK005, It's just magnificent.
Spoilt brat
@@PINKFL0YD-s2h just because you never had good stuff and probably have daddy issues doesn't mean people are brats lmao
Grand Seiko at first glance is more polished and refined. The movement is top quality.
Have you seen the prices of Rolex lately? They are freaking insane.
They still haven’t gotten any better either. As soon as seiko released spring drive they surpassed anything Rolex offers the finish of the grand Seiko is much better too your paying for the brand grand seiko offers a better watch in every way on paper for a fraction of the price and any metal you can think of including titanium Rolex doesn’t offer that besides Tudor to the best of my knowledge
Look at the prices TODAY !
@@jeremeymiller3406 Sooo many brands are better than Rolex.