Rolex vs Grand Seiko - GMT Watches | Watchfinder & Co.
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 2 ส.ค. 2024
- Let’s play a little game. Let’s pretend you’ve never heard of Rolex. You’ve come from some faraway country that’s been kept isolated for decades, but now the floodgates have been opened, your little business has boomed, and now you find yourself jet-setting the world and in need of a GMT watch. Well, I say need-you’ve heard about them and they sound kind of neat. There’s two you’ve got your eye on, a Grand Seiko and a Rolex-but which is best?
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Rolex GMT-Master II 126710BLNR
Grand Seiko SBGE001J
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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
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 😉
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.
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.
That spring drive sweep is soooo damn satisfying even in a video.
"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.
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
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
Either would be fine, if funds allowed...but I just can’t ignore the innovation and sheer quality finish of the Seiko.
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.
I love that last line. "There is so much more to being human than logic"
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
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?
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...
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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
6:39 Threw me off! I thought there was a crash outside my office, or the flintstones were stopping ny.
Finally my be loved SBGE001 is on the show. Thank you
Watchfinder & Co., you made my insomnia night so much better than it is
It's a good day when watchfinder releases a new video.
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!
Thank you for making this video - despite of your voice suggesting the weather caught you. Stay safe brother!
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.
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!
A really informative and beautiful comparison review.. would be better if date adjustments are shown individually.
When GS release a 39mm Snowflake GMT it'll be a more interesting battle.
And yes I'm aware of the SBGE209.
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
Can search on AliExpress for a Rolex GMT copy. Haven't seen copies of the Grand Seiko.
Great video I like how it makes people think more about the watch rather than the brand. Would really like to see a video on the Ulysse Nardin Torpilleur as it’s more underrated than GS and Omega just because less people know about it in the mainstream market
Consists of*
One does not use 'of' after 'comprises'!
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
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
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!
Love the crispiness of the GS and spring drive movement. Very very elegant.
That smooth sweep on the Grand Seiko speaks to me.
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.
Great video as always. Constructively, the tire screech effect definitely felt out of place with the Watchfinder vibe IMHO.
I can think of no TH-cam video on watches that can compare with Watchfinder & Co. Well done.
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 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?
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
Finally. Another video. I needed this. #Quarantine
This is like the national geographic channel of watches
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...
Ahhh.....a little calm in genuine troubling times....keep up the good work!
Could you please make a video about the history of Blancpain or Breguet? I would really love that!
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!
I've noticed that when seen under macro, Rolex doesn't hold up anywhere as well as Grand Seiko.
I thought the opposite.
Do the Tudor 1926 it’s a beautiful watch and I personally own one, would love to see it featured
Great vid as usual !!
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.
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
Great video as usual!
See a lot of comments about thickness of Grand Seiko. Fortunately they’ve just brought out new Hi-Beat and spring drive calibres, one of the benefits is that they’re both slimmer calibres. Watch this space!
Very cool video as always! I'd like to see a review of a Citizen Campanola please :)
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?
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.
Please review the longines heritage conquest, ORIS 65 40mm with the bronze bezel edge, Omega Seamaster 300 (not the diver 300m).
Brilliant insight 👍
That power reserve indication on the GS looks so out of place..... either remove it totally, or place at the 9'oclock area.....
I love GS, but c'mon, man... That Batman is gorgeous 🔥
Hey man, review the "Christophe claret" please?
Which would YOU buy sir?
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.
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👀🙃
Thank you👍
Que maravilla de Relojes...Un lujo...
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.
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
I absolutely love the Grand Seiko..the spring drive sweep is BEAUTIFUL! Its hands down the best value for the money. However...I cant get over the power reserve on the dial. It throws the balance off and is distracting from the beauty of the watch. I want one really bad...but they are going to have to redesign it and leave off the reserve meter.
Any chance we see a Rolex Explorer II video? Please keep up the amazing content!
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.
Sold the GS after a few days and lost a lot of money, but was glad to find a buyer. The GS is way to big and the clasp is a nogo in this segment. I love my RLX GMT, no reason to keep the GS.
very well done.
No need for the sound effects. Your voice is the best sound that your videos need. Yet another awesome video. Thanks
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
GMT Master II > Any Other GMT Watches.
4:39 Holy shit I like that seamless subject change of focus subject there. Almost as satisfying as GS smooth sweeping hand
Rolex GMT everyday. I dispise the power indicator on the GS and the Bezel on the GS doesn't look right. IMO
Kind of sounds like someone is showing symptoms. I hope you're doing OK Watchfinder Dude.
Is it the same guy? Sounds different
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
In this video I heard the voice a little changed, I hope it is not due to illness. Take care. Great content as always.
Now this could be the best video on the channel. All the right questions.
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?
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).
Wow! They're both fantastic!
Please do a Rolex Explorer II and GS SBGN003/5 comparison :)
Exceptional review. Thanks for calling out all the details. I own both Rolex and Grand Seiko. But the Rolex Batman is the better watch in this comparison based on two criteria: face and bracelet. The bracelet on the Rolex is exceptionally well engineered and manufactured. The spring-loaded clasp on the Grand Seiko feels a little too mass produced. Even if I owned the GMT Master II, I wouldn’t buy this Grand Seiko model. The power reserve ruins its otherwise classic design.
"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
Could we see a video for the grand seiko sbgh267 please?
The spring drive is mesmerising to watch, it's so smooth it's like an animation at high fps. Still have the Rolex in a heartbeat over it though.
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.
Another awesome vid 👏 Just what the Doctor ordered! Batman for me but That GS is 🔥🔥🔥🔥
I like the smooth movement of the seconds hand of grand seiko.
Can u do a video on best quartz watch to get? I love automatic n mechanical watches. But would love to know ur views on a quartz that's worth our while