SteelDive 1970. 2023 Update...Probably The Worst Watch I have Reviewed!
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 7 ต.ค. 2024
- The Steeldive 1970 (Steeldive Willard) is an iconic homage watch. It pays homage to the legendary Seiko 6105 worn by Capt Willard in Apocalypse Now.
it is therefore better known as a Willard Homage...and there have been many.
The Steeldive willard has had a resurgence of late with reviewers new and old looking to capitalise on its popularity.
I had left it alone, having had bought it twice prior to my reviewing days. I was not impressed then. So then, how will the Steeldive 1970 hold up in 2023. This particular one is not happy...neither is its owner!
I would suggest you may like an Rdunae instead!
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I just received one of these watches from the SteelDive store on the 11/11 sale and low and behold all the indicies are skewed and not alligned properly.. Plus the bezel is very difficult to rotate and it;s hard to tell the 120 steps. I have asked for a refund, we'll see what they do. Bottom line is the watch I received is junk in my opinion
Aye... A sorry tale. If no answer from the seller... which you will not get... Escalate to a claim with a video and pics of the issue. If there is a free return service with the store you bought it from, just use it now.
Steeldive store never replied tp my request for a refund so Ali Express stepped in and gave me a refund for the watch and credit for the shipping and they didnt want the watch back. So I think I will replace the dial with a Seiko Dial
Nice... When will Steel dive ever learn? This watch makes them a lot of money but they send out so many poor ones it's ridiculous.
I also not happy with my steeldive, bezal is awful like there's a bag of spanners under the insert. Rough as a dog. Also asked for refund, not had a reply yet though
Nothing wrong with mine, I wear it to work and wear my Tudor or Omega on the weekend.
Great value in my opinion.
So many people come saying nothing wrong with their one...I don't have your one...and the other two were just as bad. Unfortunately I can only review what I get.
You have been seriously unlucky with this one. Must have been made at 1 minute to close time! My 1970 is my favourite watch in my collection and I've some significantly more expensive. Can you keep us update with your return? Thankfully i have only had 1 issue and after sending photos I got a refund into my PayPal.
I was really looking forward to this after seeing recent reviews however I had to check it out after two poor 1970's previously. Glad you got a good one :)
If you want the protection and benefits of the UK Consumer Rights Act, you have to buy from a business based in the UK. An Aliexpress shop based outside the UK is unlikely to abide by UK laws.
Hopefully, PayPal will be of help in your dealings with this shop.
Has always stood me in good stead. All issues so far have been resolved.
I have both this SteelDive-SD1970 watch and the $2000 Seiko SPB151 it's based on. While I do love the Seiko, the bezel is out of alignment, the crown catches when you try and thread it in and the end links rattle around in the case cut-outs almost as though the bracelet was made for an entirely different watch.
It seems as though the QC issues are not limited to AliExpress watches that cost 1/16th the price of the real thing.
Ouch...I take it you are returning the Seiko?...I certainly wouldn't be happy with that :( .Thanks for watching.
I have an SPB297 62MAS and the end link movement drives me mad! Incredible for a watch in that price range. I have a €300 San Martin GMT and there's not a fraction of movement in the end links, and the overall level of finishing is fantastic. Seiko have the brand, but sometimes they don't have the quality....
I own the exact same watch - but it couldnt be more different.
It has none of the issues you have shown, I think you got one the new apprentice put together!
I have owned a few steel/addiesdive watches in the past and all have been very good for the money I paid. I would go so far as to say they are the best budget automatic watches I have owned.
Its good that you got a problem watch (sorry) as it highlights the lack of QC, it must be an area they have cut costs.
There are many stores where this watch can be purchased, I wonder if the one you used had bought some b-grade watches?
Thanks for sharing your experiences and thoughts.
I’ve had one of these for about 3 years and it hasn’t missed a beat. Dial alignment is about as good as most Seikos. Took it to Vietnam on a rubber waffle strap last summer and it came back unscathed after some abuse. The interior lug finish is rough as hell, and I replaced the original generic pressed clasp with the corresponding milled version, so it looks the same on wrist but feels more substantial, but otherwise a bargain. Looks like you got a real lemon.
I certainly did but have ordered the latest C version with the tri - coloured lume from another supplier so hopefully I finally get a look at a good one !
Perfect watch for Vietnam haha
That’s unfortunate. My experience with SD has been very different than yours.
I received my third SD yesterday. A white Willard to go with a black one. I also have their take on a Murph which is one of my favorite watches.
Other than the Willards being a little on the heavy side I’ve no complaints about any of my SDs at all.
I've got the blue version and it's been ok. I don't wear it as much as others due to the weight of it. The one you received looks like it's a returned watch that has been sent out. Hope you get everything sorted.
I bought one from steeldive UK, it came with very firm bezel action. I contacted them and returned it, another was sent out that was perfect. Great service from steeldive UK.
I wonder if the alignment issues were steeldives way of giving you the authentic Seiko experience… I have one of these and didn’t have any issues, but this looks like a second to me. Good luck with AE… I had a bliger watch for sixty quid that was DOA, the shop did, after suggesting they send me a replacement movement, did agree to return and replace at their cost, and were good to their word.
Hi buddy and thanks for the input. Any problems I have had so far have also been resolved...flying in the face of what most nay-sayers think. I am hoping this will be the same. Put a poll out this morning and it seems the majority would like to know what the buying experience is like so I may just sit down and do that :)
I bought one a couple of years back and it has none of the issues that your watch has. Be interesting to see if their quality has gone downhill or whether you got a Friday afternoon special.
Third one now. Had the other ones couple of years back. Nothing has changed:(
@@johnswatchjoint I'm wondering if it's worth trying one sold by steeldive UK? You'll pay a few quid more but you'll have a warranty and will be able to easily return it as they're based in Wales.
@@UltraLab157 ...as I said in the video...before I bought this one I had bought two before. One from Steeldive that was supposed to be inspected but was returned and another on eBay that was no better. 3 x sd1970 watches that have all been poor!
@@johnswatchjoint sorry, I missed that part of the video. Disappointing to say the least.though isn't it? Saying that, I've had similar bracelet and bezel issues with pagani, so I guess there's a fairly high risk at the lower end of the market.
My kids bought this same one for me. It didn't last more than 1.6 years. Started running stupid fast. Demagnetized...no difference. I never dropped it. I feel bad that they were excited to get me this.
UPDATE- I put a new hairspring and it's running like a champ. I truly like the style and wrist presence
Glad you got it fixed. It's very easy to damage the hairspring when regulating. One little slip of the screwdriver when pushing the beat error or rate levers sends the screwdriver straight into the hairspring. I've done that a couple of times unfortunately. One time it ran OK for a bit but gave up later on - must have been some partial damage. Thankfully a replacement movement is about $30 and with a bit of practice it's not too hard (with the right tools) to swap dial and hands over to the new movement. Date wheel too if you want to keep it all 100% like it was. The only tricky thing is the seconds hand - a bit fiddly. Hour and minutes are usually OK.
I think though if it happens again then just buy a NH35 online and take it to a watch shop and it shouldn't cost too much for them to swap the movement over. Buy one pre-regulated (good watch mod stores have that option).
@@thegorn good idea. Thanks
just got my green sd 1970, all the alignment and everything seems perfect to my eyes. it's just the bezel that is too tight. don't wanna get through the hassle of returning it, anyy tips?
Sorry to hear of another SD1970 issue. There are lots of YT videos of how to loosen and tighten bezels. See if you are up for doing that. If not, utilize your free return if you bought from a store that offers one. Other than that have a great Christmas if you celebrate it :)
Thanks for the honest review. I don' have this one so I can't comment from personal experience. I do have a Steeldive sd1975 yellow dial Tuna as ioved the colour. I have the original Seiko too. Anyway I do dive and have used the Steeldive as dive computer backup and everything is fine including the water resistance and alignment. This particular SD you are showing is definitely a Monday morning watch! You're right to send it back.
Thank you my friend :)
This is going to sound weird, but there is actually is such a thing as fake Steeldive. I’m just floored by this review. My steel time is actually better than my real Seiko Turtle. It keeps better time, it has a sapphire, crystal, and the bezel is actually aligned.
Hi Dana and thanks for the respectful comment. I would doubt this is a fake coming from The Steeldive store itself. I have had a lot of angry comments for being honest in the video. I can only review what I get of course! Unfortunately as you will have deduced I have had 3 duffers. To try to satisfy myself I am being fair I ordered and reviewed a 1975 from a different store. It was almost perfect. I have also just received a 1970c from that second store and it is almost perfect but alas is the 4th out of four to have a misaligned bezel. I have also just put up a poll on my community tab to put this to bed haha!
@johnswatchjoint I would buy from one if the UK SD dealers.. you pay a few quid more but they deal with SD and Ali Express. I paid £100 for ly one and it's mint and has been flawless for the 2 years I've owned it. It's I'm my rotation with watches that cost 40 times it's price.
I ran into this issue buying a Vostok a few years ago.. nightmare buying from Vostok.. paid a wee bit more to buy from UK dealer.. no problems and superb customer experience
Sorry to see you got a bad one. I have that same watch and mine is great and to be honest I love it. No complaints at all. Sucks that you got a bad one
I am genuinely surprised. Although I had a couple of poor ones before I am concerned that a watch with so many flaws is allowed to leave the factory.
I have a addiesdive that has no issues with.
Gosh im sorry you got a lemon.
Really wasn't expecting this result..
I own two bronze steeldives after and I have others. I don't understand.
Wasn't expecting this either!
I have the green dial 1970 and it's my favorite, though I have couple of watches in the $250 range. It's been solid. Thanks, for informing us the process you are going through in returning the watch.
We shall see what happens....
I also have a blue one with no faults. However, John, I do not think UK sales legislation will be observed by a Chinese seller. I wouldn’t hold out any hopes. This is always the problem with Aliexpress watches - low quality assurance and zero service support.
Well. Zero from 3 Steeldive 1970s says it for me re their quality on this watch. I have always managed to get great customer service from AliExpress sellers so far....
I have this watch for about 6months now. I can relay to the bracelet flaws, but other than that everything else is superb.
Ali express ou les vendeurs m'ont toujours arrangé pour regler les problèmes , il suffit de suivre la procédure
I've had mine for a few months now and it's been a great watch. I got mine on the rubber strap with the metal bracelet came as an extra, along with the signed warranty I thought it was a damn good deal. After watching this video I checked mine again and none of the issues you mentioned. Pity really because I think it's a really good watch for the money.
I had one of the early versions and it was fine. I sold it on and I'm thinking about getting another but after watching this I'm not sure. I ordered a bronze addiesdive version from Amazon and the bezel insert is all over the place and not even finished correctly. You pay a bit over the top from Amazon but it's hassle free when returning stuff.
I'm glad you mentioned Steeldive UK as my experience with them has been less than satisfactory. The San Martin retro diver I have from them is fine but it had no adjustment tools or NATO strap in the box! This was no big deal but then I ordered an SN017g Sub late last year and when it arrived it had no protective plastic on it at all resulting in a scratched and dinged case. Worse still the crown wouldn't engage the movement and it already had 2 links removed suggesting I was fobbed off with a feckin return! Matthew at Steeldive denied this and to be fair he refunded me £15 and sent out a properly packaged replacement but either he isn't checking the watches or he knew he was sending me a used watch. Not good.
I have the green 1970 and I but it on an olive green rubber strap from Barton’s. It has become my favorite watch. It has zero issues, indices are aligned, bezel is aligned and has perfect rotation. Gains about 5 to 6 seconds a day. I love it, and I have about 35 watches.
Great.
Sounds to me like you were unlucky in that you received a bad apple, which is not the norm and it's good you had everything settled. But, if you listen and read all the the reviews on these style watches from Steeldive, Addiesdive and Watchdives that reflect plenty of happiness for the purchases, you have to admit these watches are a very good buy after all is said and done and prospective buyers shouldn't be swayed by your bad experience.
Hi John and thanks for your comment. You are right and I wish others were as respectful in their comments. Unfortunately this was a bad one and I could only show it as that...but my two previous ones were pretty poor also. Zero for for three me so I cannot be positive personally...no matter how much I want one...a good one.
I have just put a poll up on the community tab to get a proper gauge of subscribers experiences.
For info I have also just received the newer 1970c and it is the best I have had BUT it is the fourth in a row with a misaligned bezel!
Review out shortly along with poll results and analysis. I can't be any fairer than that!
At John watch joint: How was the refund did you manage to get a refund? Thanks
Nope. Ended up selling it for parts
I have the blue one. No issues with the bezel alignment and the crown action is smooth for now (about 3 months of occasional wear). The scratches on the end links you described appear after some time of wear. The clasp action is not smooth, compared to other watches I have, but it is OK in general.
This is after the unboxing and straight after peeling plastic wrapping off! The crown is unuseable. Watch the whole vid. AliExpress issued refund after seeing unboxing vid. Store ignored me. It was pathetic. New review up today of the other Steeldive I bought from a different store.
I have this watch in bronze and stainless steel and the sumo they have been good but I had a corgeut speedmaster and it gets full of condensation had the same problem as you getting a refund.
We will get there. Early days.
Got one on rubber coming my way this aug. I'll be having a lookout. Thanx for the vid.
I’ve had mine for a couple of years and it’s been great. Alignment is just as good or better than my other Seiko dive watches and it keeps accurate time.
Great....swap then ? :)
My kid's one is much better aligned than my Seiko
Good informative vid. Ty. I received my heimdallr skx007 Hommage for 140euro. 50 bux more but perfect working condition.
Strange… I have the blue one and it’s perfect. I was shocked at how nice it was for the price. However, I have had issues with Pagani design watches. I know people love them, but I have found them awful.
Yeah I knew this would draw comments from lovers and haters alike but three 1970's and three poor ones is not chance. Enjoy your good one!
I agree with you....PD are way over rated.
Thanks for this review. It's all good if you get a good one. I did, one of the early ones with the cheaper clasp. I had one small issue with mine. Contacted the seller who was unwilling to resolve it. Aliexpress also not interested. Just be aware, you're pretty much on your own if something is not right.
It is worrying that so many of my subscribers think that there is nothing that can be done when there is an issue with Aliexpress. So far any issues have been resolved. We shall see what happens here too. May have to do a video on what it's like to buy on Ali?
I got an SD1970 (black/waffle strap) from Amazon on a whim. I ordered another by the end of the week after mine arrived. Nice bezel action - tight with no play, pleasing AR on factory sapphire crystal & -great- atomic lume, keeps nice time, everything lines up, crown rotates smoothly and screws in with little effort. Comfortable & can be work with almost anything. I can't speak to the brac/clasp bc I've got both of mine on various non-metal straps (waffle, fkm, NATOs) and with the pillow case they are all very comfy
Glad you got a good one. I will maybe see one someday. My Sd1975 is a lot better. Dropped the review a couple of days ago.
@@johnswatchjoint Yeah, sorry to hear about your QC issues, glad you finally got refunded. My STEELDIVE FIZZLE was my SD1962, which is fine on its own merit, but the bezel is sorta loosey-goosey and cheapish feeling when comparing to other SD models. Lines up fine, but there is some bqckplay and it just feels 'less than' the others. Underrated ⭐ is the Squale, er, SD1979 with the full bead-blasted case. I like that one substantially more than I thought I would, a great daily wear tool watch.
*Excellent vids & channel BTW.* I'm 👀 HARD at that Seestern 62MAS... Also, the Proxima 1676 or whatever it is... The retro skin diver with the white enamel dial? Mine arrived about 2 wks ago and I cannot get it off my wrist & give the others their chance.
It is 1🔥🔥%
@@hgr.7857 You have a wise collection. I would love the Sd1979 but it is too long lug to lug for me, but it is aesthetically the nicest looking Steeldive IMO. Thanks for watching;)
@@johnswatchjoint Thanks & keep up the hard work on your channel. If you can, get an SD1933 (I think? The Datejust clomage). Aside from the pressed tinny clasp, the jubilee is great and the watch is sized nicely to fit most wrists (39-40mm wide, not too thick and the cyclops is executed surprisingly well). That one's so nice I bought it twice! (white dial, one is worn frequently the other is on ice - weird, I know, but...) The thing is, now that I've got all these Steeldives, that PROXIMA PX1676 (CW skindiver) showed up and is just owning the rest of the collection as of now.
Sad (-ish) thing is... I might sell those and put that on my Eleanor:
the SINN 104 I ST SA A 🤦🏼🤤🤷🏼
I *want* that Sinn.
I have an older model (purchased 2-3 years ago) and it's been flawless. Swimming in the ocean with it tons of times. No real diving though. It's been accurate and reliable. The fit and finish is excellent. Granted, there's the different color lume on the bezel and the lume on the hands doesn't match the indices but you get what you pay for. I wasn't expecting a Seiko here. For 100 bucks, I'm more than satisfied with mine. It's a fantastic beater watch.
i have now purchased about 15 watches from Aliexpress Steeldive Addiesdive Seestern Pagani and have had ZERO issues with any of them / now my Seikos on the other hand have been mis alligned and have had a couple with very very poor bezels veing so light to turn
Issued Full Refund By AliExpress. Zero Help or communication from Supplier but great result.
@@RoberttSmithh I will do at some point but I suspect the case was not fully finished. I really don't think there is enough room for the crown to turn. Could even be burrs in that area as the crown is scored really badly :(
Thats good to hear, how tricky was it going through the Aliexpress refund?
As long as you document opening the box as I did, the retailer has no chance . Ali had no choice. Easy.
@@johnswatchjoint smart man
Can you explain to me how a watch with a 120 click bezel (0.5 minutes per click) can be off by 0.5 minutes? That is absolutely impossible!
Very poor QC - though I have one of these and mine has none of these issues.
Seems to be the consensus but I can only review what I see...and it is pretty clear Houston has a problem haha :)
Absolutely - clearly they have QC issues and it’s pot luck
I bought a Pagani BB58 V2 when they first dropped, and it arrived with a faulty clasp that would just fall off. Eventually they sent me a new clasp after a bit of back and forth and now I've noticed a significant chip in the chapter ring that I'd not noticed before. And it's now too late to do anything about it and I cannot help but notice it every time I look at the dial.
My advice is to thoroughly check every watch on receipt, because it is possible to get a great watch at a great price, but there are some significant quality issues that somehow pass through their so called quality inspection.
Great vid my friend 👍
Great advice that should be needed by all
Sound advice :)
Thank you for the information. I won’t even call it a review since the watch was bag of problems. I know you’re not Jody, but you would think they would be more forthcoming to remedy the situation. Anyway please keep us posted. Keep up the great content!
I appreciate that!
I have the blue version....no problems as i can see...love it....never off my wrist
I picked mine up during the 11/11 sale and got it for $47. At that price I expected something to be off or not quite right with it. But, I was not disappointed at all when I got it in the hand and on the wrist. It's put together well and I really really like it a lot.
To be fair, I was not impressed with the quality of the bracelet, which I immediately removed, and replaced it with a black tropic strap. Also, I really wish Steeldive would have used white indexes with white lume. There is something to be said about Seikos ability to make outstanding dials, which we can all agree, the Chinese have not been able to master.
Hi Tom. Glad you got a good one. If you look at my recent videos you will see the Chinese have now mastered dial production. The San Martin GMT in green I voted the best watch on AliExpress is outstanding as are a few others now :)
My SteelDive 1975 Tuna is a fantastically built watch. I've had it a couple of years, has a rubber diving strap. I've examined it close up and it all aligns beautifully. My Seiko "Save the Ocean" prospex on the other had, which is also a beautiful watch has indexes which don't align with the 12 mark, and it cost about £400 in UK. Luck if the draw I expect.
I am writing from Turkey, I ordered Stealdive sd1970 about 6 months ago. I use it fondly, it keeps time with +3 seconds a day. When I watched your video, I checked the alignment problem, and jubilee bracelet scratches, yes I have it too. I don't see any problem with the buckle. Can I return this watch? Never. I would like to thank Steel Dive for giving me Sapphire glass, seiko movement 316L steel and Captain Willard nostalgia at these prices. Buying Seiko Captain Willard is a dream for most of us. Very much thanks Steal dive
You will not be able to return after 6 months as the scratches will be classes as wear and tear. The condition of the watch I reviewed was straight out of the box brand new and unworn. Thanks for watching.
I got one last year, and I really like it. I ordered a new one recently to mod, and the quality was very bad. Like yours, the case was too long lug to lug, 48.3 in my case, it just didn't look or feel right. The chapter ring was loose as well, and the finishing just wasn't very nice. Perhaps with the latest batch they've gone too far with the cost savings. I'm going to look around for old stock from another retailer for my mod project
Aye ..it is sad but usually I get the reply...." but mine is brilliant"...which is good but they didn't get the watches I got nor the one you got either. Thanks for sharing ☺️
Seriously surprised at Steeldive. Good video. 👍
My first steeldive watch was the SD1970C from steeldive engineer store and cost $111. There were multiple quality control issues.the gap between bezel insert and bezel, lume stained seconds hand, poor paint coverage on the ends of the hands, misaligned bezel, hour hand misaligned.I couldn't use the watch so I had to sell it for a lower price.
I just wanted to give it one last chance and bought the base model from steeldive store for $75 and just like yours there is a stain on that part of the bracelet . and 6 o'clock marker that looks slightly left slanted to my eye.
Finding a flawless watch of this model or brand is pure luck and I don't think there is one that is completely flawless. but the last watch I bought has been on my wrist for a week and it hasn't deviated even for 1 second during this time. The first watch I bought was deviating by 13 seconds a day. As a result, I love using the last watch I bought. I couldn't even look at the first watch I bought it was so bad.
13s off per day is normal. I’d advise you stay clear of Seiko in general. You would be mad unhappy regarding the accuracy.
Thankfully there is few local dealer in my country. Things like this are covered with warranty by the dealer, 1-2 years even. Usually they are checking the product, put a warranty card, repack, then resealed. It maybe more expensive than I bought directly from ali, like 20-30% margin, but I think it's fair enough.
Sorry you have had so many issues. I got mine about a year and a half ago and it has been perfect. Maybe they have gotten sloppy over time (pardon the pun).
To anyone who got a good one I wish you all the best O am genuinely jealous. Specs wise it should have been great 👍
Hi John. Have similar issue but Ali not helping much and offer so far is for 50% refund. How did you get Ali to help ? Did you keep old watch and get a full refund ?
Great question. I initially asked for refund and return… to which they agreed but I had picked a store that did not offer free returns ( good tip to remember ) so I messaged them a couple of times without reply. I then cancelled initial request and opened a new one for full refund only. They still did not reply. Because I had shown video of the issues Ali stepped in after the allotted time. If you have good evidence and stand your ground you should be ok but that is only how I did it. Hope this helps. Was the watch as bad as mine?
The case and the indices and bezel seemed fine. It was the crown sticking against the guards and then falling out completely and refusing to go back in being the problem. The seconds stopped ticking over too and even if the crown was to go back in the guards prevented winding and setting. Issue still in progress with Ali. @@johnswatchjoint
@@KEITHLAWRENCE-pk8zc That is not good.
Not good at all so far
Mines brilliant! I bought it in 2018. It’s been all over the place with me, even to New York. It’s never failed me and is really accurate.
All the best.👍🏾🇬🇧
Do you a trade for my duffers haha!
@@johnswatchjoint Haha
The new ones dont have ar coating?
Fair play mate.
Tbh Im tempted to get one of these, and I have seen a lot of people fawning all over them.
When I started this video I was priming myself to disagree with you but you make excellent observations and solid points.
I might still spin the wheel and take my chances but I will certainly be looking out for all the things you mention in this video.
Thank you sir.
Thank you for a respectful reply! So many people have heaped hate on me for this honest take on a watch that I have wanted myself fo a long time. Folk just do not realise I am not reviewing their watch... Just the watch I have in front of me.
I did a poll and I also bought a fourth one to see if I could finally get one problem free. Check out my SD1970C review where you hear exactly how bad the crown operation was. ( I had a mic by this point!) the watch failed completely a few days after the follow up. It is something buyers have to be aware of.
32 percent of SD1970 watches being chucked out of the factory have issues ( subscriber poll result )
@@johnswatchjoint I appreciate your candour mate, plus I know what to look out for now. I think people get emotionally invested and just dont want to hear the hard truths tbh. sunk-cost fallacy and all that. Very good observations though fella. The watch looked great until you pointed out the flaws and once you did that I couldnt stop seeing them.
Is the watch you bought the Watch you used for the lume?
Tbh I cannot remember as I have bought 4;to try and get a straight one! Lume is one department that won't let you down on a Steeldive.
Like mine actually,just slightly misalighned,no other issues.
Got the Highbeat movement one
I think that your watch is in the minority with regard to Steeldive. The bracelets should be ignored and the watch head is the main issue
I would love to agree. Have ordered the latest 1970c version so watch this space!
I have the original CW of Seiko and a Submariner Homage of Steeldive wearing that as an everyday watch not many differences except couple of hundred dollars.
As much as my watch is the exact opposite of yours, its necessary to show people the bad, hype for this watches is (reasonably) over the roof but that doesn't mean everyone will get as lucky as I did with QC.
Good thing you were able to solve it and still be so open about your negative experience with the brand
Finally, somebody actually speaking some sense! The amount of messages hating on me for posting this video has been intense...they all start with...MY watch was fine....Thank you :)
I agree over the bezel alignment, but the indices look perfectly ok to me, particularly as it’s such a close macro shot, you wouldn’t notice in everyday use. I’ve seen Seikos with worse alignment! But overall you do appear to have been very unlucky!
Unfortunately lighting and camera perspective make it difficult with indices on camera sometimes. It was one of the first things I noticed with the watch. Look at the updates and the poll. 33 percent of these watches are sent out with 2 faults or more. The watch also completely failed after 3 weeks. :(
Wow, I'm surprised to hear that. Mine has Zero issues and beat the crap out of it, as it is great beater watch, and mine is now over a year old.
Steel Dive should not have sent that watch out. I ordered one yesterday. Based on your video I will take a closer look than I would have had I not seen your review. Thanks!
I am sure you will be fine. I really believe that I have been unlucky albeit 3 duds BUT I did order the 1975 from a different store and it was excellent. I have ordered the new 1970c from that same store and hope for a better outcome :)
Thank you for this. till now I have only purchased watches from local suppliers for just this reason.
To be fair ordering from China has been pretty much trouble free...this of course is the exception!
I also have the same version and it has no alignment issues and I like it a lot
Glad yours doesn't but mine obviously does.
Weird. I have the blue one and it's been brilliant. Well made, keeps good time and excellent lume. Sounds like you got a Friday afternoon watch. Possibly even a Christmas eve one
Ha ha. You won't believe the hassle I have had over this review...every Steeldive fan and his dog came after me! Unfortunately I can only review what I get....and I can't ignore flaws!
@@johnswatchjoint I can imagine! You can only review what you see, and the watch you were sent was indeed awful.
More like Chinese New Year 😂
I have a green and blue SD1970 and a red SD1974 Steeldive. All perfect but for a slightly stiff bezel on both 1970's. However, a small drop of silicone lube via the end of a screwdriver applied to the underside of the bezel and silky smooth rotation ever since. In fact, the only returnable issue with any of my several AliExpress watches was a half-second misalignment of the second hand on a Berny quartz. I got a detailed technical run around from Berny on why it was not guaranteed to hit the marks. As an engineer, I know BS when I hear it. They did accept a free return and a full refund. Needless to say, no Berny in my watch collection, now or ever!
I've got one of these.. bought it new 2 years ago and my one is superb.. no complaints.. it actually put my Seiko Willard to shame with its better alignment.
I've also just received a Steeldive Tuna and again it's superb.
I think you may have been very unlucky
...not four times. Still to get a working one!
@johnswatchjoint so these days I tend to buy Ali Express and Vostok etc from UK importers. I pay an extra tenner or so but it means QC and some customer service.
This was after buying a Seagull from Ali Exprress a few years ago and, like you I got 3 shite ones before I got one that worked.
I also now buy Vostok from UK importers rather than from the factory...same reason
Unfortunately buying from UK importers does not mean extra QC. I bought my second SD1970 from Steeldive UK importer on eBay. It died after 3 weeks.
As an owner of genuine Seiko dive watches over the years, from quartz to Automatics and same goes for citizen Eo drives, all used for diving and caving and worn pretty much constantly (yeah sometimes two watches at a time); I think it's just too much to expect that a watch purporting to have a 300m water resistance to be good for under your 100 pounds sterling, impossible. Although I see below someone who has nothing bad to say about the one they got. Mmmm time (no pun intended) will tell with this brand.
OK I wrote that 2 months ago and now own a STEELDIVE 300m. Let's see how it fares, so far so good LOL. I might be taking back what i said about "cheap watches" LOL. First review done and it looks very good.
BTW that 300m Honey comb diver I got is still going strong and keeping excellent time.
The mystery, revealed!
Some good buyer tips, John.
Two sets of stuck links, many alignment issues, clasp issue. But the grinding sound, danger!
'twas a shocker to be sure!
Interesting, mine works like a charm, i owned blue dial bezel combination and its a great watch, i think yours had some problems
You obviously haven't followed the story. This was the third one that
was faulty...a few weeks later it stopped altogether. I got a fourth one to give them another chance...but no. Terrible watch.
My 1970 works just fine. You must have got a lemon. I actually really like it and I wear it every day. Mine has a white dial and it's very impressive looking.
I bought three because I wanted one but after three duds it's getting hard to see what others see in this model....however I am giving the 1970 a fourth chance! The c version with tri coloured lume is on the way so we will see what happens. Plus I have also done a poll on my Community Tab. Speaks for itself really but I will discuss that too next week so make sure you subscribe :)
Had mine since Steeldive first bought them out , good watch amazing lume .
stelldive 1970 Willard is the best watch i ever purchased, from USA, I have Seiko tuna, Citizen eco drive all diver watches, but this homage steeldive 1970 is my daily watch to wear with +1 SEC /per day vs Seiko auto +15 sec /per day, I do not have any of that problem you are reviewing, must be some china copy you have in your hand. sorry for you, NEXT TIME GET FROM USA STEELDIVE! WATCH!!
Love how Steeldive fans are as ardent as Seiko fans aka… mine is fine … therefore yours is a cheap China copy?!. Steeldive IS a Chinese watch company lol. Bought my first from Steeldive Uk. Returned faulty. Got my second from EBay again garbage. Bought my third from Steeldive as you saw… what a horror show. But yours is fine therefore Steeldive are brilliant???!!.. Gotta disagree :)
You sure got a reject there! I've been wearing mine for 71 days now and have begun to wonder if I'll ever wear any of my other watches. Lume is terrific and the alignments are all spot one. The only downside was the bracelet. Sharp edges, poor riveting on the clasp, but since it's my watch I did not mind taking a stone to it.
... Bought 4 in the end. Not one was without fault and this one died altogether after 3 weeks. I have no issues with Steeldive... Just the SD1970. Biggest seller. Being thrown out the door with zero QC.
just to mention Seiko willard watch is around 1600 to 2000 AUD!!!This Steeldive was 160aud, it is better & more accurate with nh35 seiko movement in it than Seiko Willard + Steeldive have ceramic bezel & Sapphire crystal against Seiko aluminum bEzel & ordinary glass(mineral),
The Willard has sapphire crystal and a better movement with more power reserve.
Yep, that's bad. I've got 3 of these - 1 steel on bracelet, 1 on a strap and a bronze one. They're all fine. Obviously highly inconsistent qc at the factory.
Aye!
Sorry to hear that, my kid's one is faultless
I have 6 Steeldive watches that run amazingly well. Excellent value for money.
I guess I got lucky. Got mine in about two years ago. Everything is perfectly aligned. It keeps ridiculously good time, +1 or two seconds per day. I guess it’s just the luck of the draw.
Thanks for watching and for leaving an honest comment. So many Steeldive fans just hate on me for pointing out what is plainly a poor watch. I also did a follow up video and a subscriber poll. You are indeed lucky to get a good one. My poll indicated that one in three SD1970 models ( not the brand collection in general) have at least two flaws. I got three bad ones on the spin! The fourth one in the follow up video was better ...but alas still had a misaligned bezel. That is fixable at least. It's the biggest selling model and is just turned out cheaply which is so unfortunate. The Addiesdive version is so much better as their Quality Control is good. Well done you for finding a diamond in the rough ;)
the Watch Dives version of this is a similar price and should be much better (from the reviews i have seen). i have one steeldive watch and will not be buying another....in one respect it is a true homage as the alignment it typically seiko! take up the return direct with aliexpress, they should refund you without too much drama. i ordered a cronos and got sent the wrong watch, seller was not interested, but aliexpress sorted the refund and return. Great review, hope the channel continues to grow John
Cheers buddy. I have handled a few niggles with suppliers and to be fair all have come through. I am sure this will be fine also. Thanks for the support. From comments I think some folk believe I get these watches given to me. Not the case. I am a customer who happens to review what he gets !
Mine's absolutely brilliant. Bad luck chum! I'm buying another...
..more like you got lucky haha. 3 bad ones on the spin is not bad kuck. My poll confirms this. 34% of these watches ship with 2 flaws or more!
Fantastic watches.
Steeldive are but just not the SD1970. Rushed out in great numbers with no QC.
Has the best lume, ceramic bezel and the nh35. Just ordered 2 more for friends....Cheers.
Best of luck@@donquxiote7653
Wow. Never seen a bad Steeldive review. Though the 1953 is the only one I personally own. No issues at all with that one. Based on the comments, iit seems like there's QC issues going on where some go out fine but others don't. Hope SD works out a quick resolution for you.
Hi there. This video is a year old. The watch died after a couple of weeks. Four bad ones now. Don't have any issues with other Steeldive watches...just the 1970 :(
@@johnswatchjoint Yikes! Just appeared in my feed, lol. Good case for me NEVER buying a 1970. Thanks for all your work on reviews!
I personally I can live with all the minor shortcomings of this watch. They’re not noticeable for me. Many of my Pagani design watches have let me down on their bracelets but I find ways round them hopefully my order will be okay fingers crossed🙏🏿
If you get a good one they are great but this one completely failed after a few weeks.
Seems you got a bad watch due to poor QC, which can happen with these micro brands. Having said that I have bought the SD 1970 as well as the SD 1980. Both have been fantastic, I did not get any of the faults you experienced, I'm glad you got a full refund , clearly it was warranted.
I have 10 watches in my collection which include Casio/Gshock, Pagani design, Sea-Gull, the watch I love the most is the SD 1970...its accurate , reliable and looks awesome on my wrist with a Nato strap
Glad you found a good un!
Found this review since I'm considering a bronze one of these as a gift for my son. After reading the pinned comment and watching this review I'll pass.
How's this for a story? - In 2012 my son bought a genuine Seiko watch from a Seiko store on eBay and it didn't work. After one day use it died. Sent it back got a replacement and after one day it also died. Sent it back and got a replacement. The third watch lasted ten days and died.
They wouldn't accept a refund as they said we did it. We lodged a PayPal claim and got our money back. Genuine Seiko with an NH35/36 and they were all crap. These were $500 watches and only about $150 cheaper than retail.
He ended up buying a Tissot PRS high beat for $1500. Still going which is better than I can say for my 2004 high beat Breitling Hercules which lasted just 12 months after an $800 service by Breitling (with service certificate and and re-chronometer certification).
Watches are a mug's game, but I'm a mug and I play LOL.
I've got an Alpha Rolex Daytona clone with a Seagull based hand wind movement and along with my Casio GWG-1000 these are excellent watches. The Casio was $1000+ so it should be good, but the Alpha was just $160 and is the most amazing value for money watch and yes all three subdials work as in the original. Keeps really excellent time too. Alpha offer a dial colour that Rolex never made for the Daytona and I got that so I don't feel like a fraud wearing it. I put it on a black leather Rally band with holes, the inside of which are red to match the dial colour. I love it and I love wearing it and I love that no one notices it.
I know the Alpha very well as I owned it when getting back into watches 7 years ago. Great watch but the bracelets were very poor but at the price I paid I was not complaining. Kept it for two years before moving it on as they have a cult following. Seiko and I have not gotten on for a long time. Used to love them but they just do not offer quality for money. A very sad story!
@@johnswatchjoint Apparently the genuine Daytona bracelet was poor quality and it seems Alpha emulated even that part of it. Even though I don't use it I really like the rattly Alpha bracelet.
I have heard of QC issues with Steeldive. However I have 4 so far all bought from SteeldiveUK 1, a SD1993 GMT, bought just last week and all have been fine upon delivery and work well. Only thing I would say is the NH34 movement on my SD1975W has a bit of a dry windup on it but my SD1975C is smoother with the same movement but still a very tiny bit of grating. Mind you both new and metal on metal so maybe just need to bed in a bit. Worst watch I ever got was a Citizen Promaster NY0040-09EE. Hands, Face, Indeces and Bezel all misaligned. The watch was a joke. Got sent back same day I received it! Just goes to show even the big boys mess up.
Yeah it does happen but 3 SD 1970's on the spin was pretty poor.
@@johnswatchjoint 3 bad watches on the trot? That's taking the pee a bit. I'd be wondering if that wasn't 3 re-packaged returns being sent out?
You were extremely unlucky ! I’ve had mine for two and a half years and it’s an incredible watch for the price, it’s easily 4 to 5 times what I had paid for, it even puts to shame some of the Seiko watches ! Sold 3 to 4 times the price.
I love Steeldive and have the 1953 but I have had FOUR attempts at this now and all were terrible....bought an Addiesdive version and it was perfect . Seems my subscribers agree. 34 pc of sd1970 bought in my subscription group had at least two issues at purchase. I just cannot recommend it. Check through my playlist for the full story. It stopped after 3 weeks altogether :(
@@johnswatchjoint Thank You I will
I have one and I love it. No problems so far
Good for you :)
I've seen NOTHING but rave reviews. I've ordered mine and am awaiting it's arrival this week. Now I'm curious as to which one I'll get! The amazing outstanding watch I've seen reviews tell me about or the WTF Friday afternoon special you got!
It is unfortunate. Everyone thinks I hate Steeldive which is not the case. The reason I ordered this watch three times is because I wanted one! I have been very unlucky with 3 crappers and the poll I did on my Community Tab says I am NOT alone.... But I have bought another believe it or not...a 1970c with multicolored lume just to see if I could get a decent one. Will do a review of that and address the poll too...so make sure to subscribe to see that :)
@@johnswatchjoint Already have my friend. 😄
Thank you for your support AND your opinion 🙏
I'm still waiting for mine to arrive from the latest sale. I was a little hesitant, but the price (60 euro) was too good to pass on it. A DIY project with basically the same parts would cost 3-4x the price of the whole watch. As I have a SD1979 (Atmos), it was not that hard to pull the trigger as I love that one. You recommend Rdunae, but the brand name is awful and I would never buy any of their watches unless it is a "no logo, no brand" version. I don't even know how to pronounce that name and if someone asks me what is the brand of the watch I'm wearing, "it's Rdunae" sounds just stupid, sorry.
Well if you did your home work you will find that Rdunae is Latin for Rome wasn't built in a day. Rather than Steeldive which sounds like a brick that would sink. I only recommend watches on quality...not on names. If it is good I will recommend it and I have handled it. It is a far superior watch to the Steeldive and therefore I still recommend it over the Steeldive. After Multiple Steeldive buys and a poll to get the lowdown on Steelldive it seems that the company are happy to ship out 30% of their watches with at least one fault. Not my figures, my subscribers figures.That is unacceptable.
@@johnswatchjoint Fair point, I didn't know it's coming from that sentence, but still the abbreviation sounds really strange to me and really hard to pronounce - English is not my native language I'm Bulgarian). To me, it sounds like taking "Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet" and calling my brand LIDSA. Is there an established abbreviation or the company made it up? It's a genuine curiosity, not trying to insult anyone.
As for the rest, I don't question your recommendation based on quality, even the price suggest it is superior, I just don't like the name. Steeldive/Addiesdive doesn't sound much better anyway.
PS: A honest review is always welcome, so thanks for that. Sometimes it is hard to pick a version of a watch with all that options on Ali. Your review was one of the reasons I was hesitant to buy it, but I've decided to try it as the price was very low for the components used. I can always use it as a base for a DIY project and try to fix issues if there are any.
Sorry if I sounded harsh but this review brought me so many negative comments from Steeldive fans, yet when I did my follow up reviews and poll it turns out I was right. The Steeldive SD1970 is literally shoved out the door without proper QC and there are far too many with problems. Other models such as the SD1975 do not have the same issues. Just make sure you check and double check when you get it. On Rdunae, everyone is entitled to their opinion but so many people write off brilliant watches with daft names when they are every bit as good as more expensive models. My job is to find them and Rdunae are definitely some of the best Willard homages out there...light on the wrist and great to look at and wear...just for your info. Thanks for watching and commenting:)
"Cpt. Willard" seems to be one of the most sought after models, so it is understandable there are many different opinions. My impression from the different SKX cases bought from aliexpress is they vary in machining quality, finishing and dimensions. Some are pretty bad as in incorrectly placed crown hole, different issues with the lugs, grindy bezels, etc. Some are actually great. Usually, the saying we have here that "cheaper turns out to be more expensive in the long run" turns out as true.
I only have one SD watch and I like it, but it's a different model. As for the brand names and logos, it's not just the Chinese ones I dislike. Logo and brand identity are not easy to figure out.
Coming from a poor country, I want to spend my money on something that I like as a whole and in some cases simple things like logo, font and brand name can stop me from buying an otherwise great watch. For example, can't just ignore the fact I don't like the logo on SWC Bunker, although I like the rest of the watch very much. But each on their own... :) I have my preferences for many other things, to name a few - I absolutely hate "mercedes" hands and cyclops on the crystals.
PS: I could come back to this thread and share my thoughts about it when I get it. It's already delivered, but I won't be able to check until next 1-2 weeks.
Ok, last comment for now :D Looking at it again, the R2X definitely looks much closer to the original Willard. It's more than twice the price though, will add it to my watch list for future sales, I can live with the logo on the dial, it's clean.
Given the prices of other Steeldive watches, this model seems to be a 'loss leader'. It still seems to be a great value to find a 200M dive watch with a lumed ceramic bezel, sapphire crystal, Seiko NH35 movement, very good lume and a milled clasp buckle -- for under $80. To expect perfection *for it's price* isn't reasonable - then recommend a RDUNAE costing almost 2.5x as much, which would deserve the criticisms you level here. (The official RDUNAE store is selling the watch for much less). I'd be surprised if you could identify a better valued automatic dive watch - at a similar or better price. [I'd steer clear of Tandorio's version, given the anti-reflective coating and water resistance issues noted in other reviews, though I might be unfair.] Thankfully, numerous brands make homages of this watch, but if one expects perfection one is going to have to pay for it.
If you walked into a shop to buy this watch and asked them to open the box to check it, you are saying you would buy it then? Crown will not rotate without grating in metal. Bezel misaligned. Questionable water resistance….look it up. Marks all over bracelet and a clasp that won’t close. I get you are a fan but you have to be realistic. My £100 watch choice shows what quality is available at that price and this is awful in comparison … It was also the third 1970 on the spin with issues. Look in comments and you will see another person asking me for help as his crown had the same issue and came out altogether. Not great QC is it?
@@johnswatchjoint There are QC issues, but given the features *for the price* Steeldive probably devotes more diligent QC to their higher-priced watches. I didn't have similar issues when I purchased my watch over a year ago (possibly when QC was better) and would consider other models, if I could justify such a *need* . What are the 'other £85.00 watches that do it a lot better'? Namely, a 200M dive watch with a lumed ceramic bezel, sapphire crystal, Seiko NH35 movement, very good lume, good anti-reflective coating and a milled clasp buckle... Have you tried an Addiesdive MY-H8?
@@borbetomagus Buddy you are totally missing the point of my review. I review watches as a hobby. I pretty much pay full price for them all. I can only tell you the facts. What you see in the review is what I see. If you are happy to pay £80 to £100 for a watch with the issues this particular watch had then that is up to you. For the same price there are plenty of better options. I am not criticising your purchases. I am reviewing the watch in hand...and this example sucks!
perhaps since after all it is a chinese brand, quality control, or lack thereof, has some faulty models slip through. As compared to higher quality watches that, lets be frank, also have higher quality in part due to supreme quality control. I own an Invicta next to my Sub as a daily driver and people say the Steeldive is apparently higher quality. I got the Invicta because I liked the open back, and I am a heritage brand kinda guy. My Invicta actually is one of my favorite beaters, its not a real rolex ofcourse but for the price difference I feel comfortable wearing it daily while my Rolex only comes out during those special occasions.
I am pretty certain PayPal would side with you, how about putting it in the sink and see if it takes on water.
Nah..... Jeremy Clarkson it with a hammer haha 😂
@@johnswatchjoint You could always send it to Nicola Sturgeon as a going away present.🤣
@@JonTheComputerDoctor haha she will be missed...NOT!
I have the Addiesdive version which is perfect. Better quality control I imagine.
Absolutely
I was laughing up until the crown issue - Misalignment issues are what they are, we all know Seiko's frequently have issues. What I'm curious about is your purpose for owning one of these? I'm a blue collar guy, I work for a living, and to me these things are great - For well under $100 you're getting a tough watch with a sapphire crystal and decent Seiko movement - I know my bracelet and case will be marked up from normal wear within several wearings. I'm lucky where I have a watch guy two blocks away who's so cool he'll stop what he's doing to adjust the timing for me right there (I just brought my genuine Seiko 773J Turtle to him for this the other day, he took it, adjusted it and didn't even charge me). Personally, I expect these watches to be slightly outta-whack but as long as they keep decent time and function correctly I feel like they're a fabulous bargain for those of use who want a tough cheap watch with "cool" factor.
So, I'm curious, what's you're purpose for wanting one? Is it just to have in a collection? Are you looking for a "perfect" version of a cheap chinese watch for your collection?
Omg. You haven't watched the series have you? Three sd1970s on the spin that were faulty...not a laughing matter. I got this to review as I review watches. Bought one from Steeldive UK. It was crap. Bought one on eBay ...it was worse than crap. Then a couple of years later I bought this one on AliExpress...and it was crap. If you watch my second video where I bought an SD 1975 that was fine you will hear the grinding noise of the crown properly on this watch. It grind when you turn the crown and it does not run for more than two hours after full wind. Also did a poll with my subscribers to see what their experience was like. They were not laughing either. Over 30 percent of these watches have two or more faults. Before judging, do your homework like I have.
@@johnswatchjoint Not judging, just asking - I read through the comments and your responses so I understand - Your video was just the first I stumble upon that had serious issues with the crown - That's serious as well as a time piece that doesn't work. Expecting a chinese watch under $100 to be "perfect" as far as minor alignment issues isn't something I personally would find off-putting - Genuine Seiko's often have these issues.
As I mentioned, for me a tough watch I'll beat up just needs to work so minor alignment issues I'd have to study to be annoyed by aren't an issue - "Do I know it's 3:30, ok, I'm good" 😀
I always wore a watch until I got a cell phone - I'm back to a watch because all I need to do is know the time - When you look at a phone to check time you often get sucked into it which is were you end up losing time at work....
I buy mostly used everything because I'm not big on paying retail - I've been lucky with used Seiko's including the newer Willard which goes for $1,100 but I got for $750 with all the boxes and papers as well as a nice jubilee bracelet (original rubber one also included) - The Willard was a new thing to me, but being a Marine, having family members who were in Viet Nam and being a military history nerd, once it was on my radar I wanted one - Finding these chinese knock-offs that already come with a sapphire crystal and Seiko movement I've decided to give them a go.... I'm glad to have found your video, I've done a few of my own recently - I have two used versions on the way and will do videos comparing them to the Sekio... I may include a link to your video as a warning to people as my intent was to point out, to me, these things could be the best "working man's watch" out there... We'll see... Sorry you had so much trouble as it seems the majority of people out there aren't having the function issues but accept the misalignment issues...
Thanks for the response, continued success here on TH-cam!
Thank you. This video has gotten me more hate than I care to mention. You will see that I have gotten a reputation for being up front and honest. I have not even been posting for a year but have just hit half a million views. I tell it like it is and the honest answer as to why I purchased the sd1970 was to see if Steeldive had improved this watch after two previous fails...as you can see it was awful.
My analogy is that you walk into a store with $100 and ask to see a New Steeldive. After seeing that it has a crunchy crown, mis-aligned bezel, a scratched up bracelet with a clasp that doesn't close you walk out of the store with that watch in your hand completely happy.
In real life no one would, but all I hear is "you have to remember it's only $100!"
Yet you and I know they would not buy it.
Plenty of other watches out there for less that are far better.
I wish you success on your channel.
I've got a couple of the 1970s wear em on site daily and sea swim in them most days no problems at All.
Great...I've got 3 dead uns. My poll says 30 percent of SD1970 watches shipped have at least 2 problems. Not views...owners poll result!
Best value watch i have ever purchased. I love mine!
Glad you got a good un;)
Just goes to show you if is hit and miss with Ali express watches. I had this watch, and mine was terrific. But I know Adrian got one that got water logged. I’ve also had some bad luck with San martin who is supposed to be the cream of the Ali crop, but I received a couple that were not perfect. Forgivable issues but not perfect and their solution to my last problem after inquiry was a joke.
Hi Mirrly. It is unfortunate that I have had the same watch 3 times... from different sources...and still haven't found a good one. A lot of pretty nasty comments deleted and a few emails that were borderline threatening...all for pointing out what was clear! I would get it if I was laying the boot into someone else's watch but the watch was bought and paid for by me lol! If you go to a restaurant and get food poisoning you won't go back...if you buy 3 cars from the same manufacturer and they all let you down...ya don't go back. Isn't that called learning haha 😆.
Thanks for watching buddy. Speak soon ;)
@@johnswatchjoint that’s why I won’t buy another San martin. I wasn’t terribly dissapointed but still had issues that I didn’t expect, and when I’m spending between 275-400 CAD I would rather buy another Seiko or Timex or Casio or, or, or……or save that towards my grail.
Think you just got a dud or a returns watch. Some things you have to live with given it’s just £80 but the bezel is well out of whack. I doubt your consumer law will apply to China as they do not abide by any laws other than their own.
Export everting but nothing comes back.
If you got it from AliExpress then contact them rather than steeldive as you will more likely get a refund
Got my money back and did not have to return the watch. The worst thing was the crown grinding. Euugrhh
But why is it's declared weight 140g throughout the internet?
A lot of the time these weights are not very accurate. Weights can be stated with a fully linked bracelet or on a strap. The weight I give would be the weight of the watch with a number of links removed for my wrist size for reference or on a provided strap.
Discrepo completamente. Yo tengo el mismo modelo, el bisel está perfectamente alineado, la hora es muy precisa siendo 3 seg por día y la corona se mueve suavemente sin notar nada raro. Creo que tienes una unidad defectuosa y te lo deben de cambiar. No creo que tengas problema. Es posible que de vez en cuando pueda venir algún modelo defectuoso pero yo tengo cuatro modelos de Steeldive y todos está muy bien ajustados tanto de tiempo como de componentes. No te quedes con esa sensación, espera a cambiarlo. Saludos
Unfortunately you have not watched the full set of videos and the poll results . See community tab. I have had 3 faulty SD1970 watches. So you have been lucky. My subscribers agree. 1 in 3 SD1970 watches have at least 2 faults. Fact. Steeldive did not help so poor customer service also. AliExpress agreed and refunded me in full. I then opened the original watch and it was horrific. Before telling someone they are wrong please read all the facts!
@mirandoalfrentesiempre@@johnswatchjoint With all due respect, what John tells you is correct, you bought 4 and they all went well, he bought 3 (in the end he bought an additional one that also had some QC issues) and every watch had problems. You can disagree, but the tone and meaning of your words do not show openness to the fact that it is possible that some people have a good experience and others a bad one, and that when you add both points of view it results in the fact that buying one of these models of this brand is like a coin toss.
Con todo respeto, lo que te comenta John es correcto, tú compraste 4 y te salieron todos bien, él compró 3 (al final compró un cuarto adicional que también tuvo algún tema de QC) y todos tenían problemas. Puedes discrepar, pero el tono y sentido de tus palabras no muestran apertura a que es posible que unos tengan buena experiencia y otros mala, y que cuando agregas ambos puntos de vista da como resultado que comprar uno de estos modelos de esta marca sea como tirar un volado.
Unlucky. I bought the green used/as new from eBay and it's faultless. I think it cost me £75. I put this firmly in the Invicta realm of bang for pound, Your experience reinforces my suspicion of buying complicated watches (i.e. non-dress, non-quartz) direct from China, sight unseen and relying on returns. FYI, there's a guy selling these 'maybe' officially from the UK, just look up the obvious URL. Might be safer for future purchases.
Unfortunately bought from Steeldive UK first time with same result. You do know that Steeldive are a Chinese brand right? Got full refund and kept watch after Ali E stepped in.
@@johnswatchjoint Seems Steeldive UK is an honest guy. I heard as much elsewhere. Yes of course I know they're made in China. A bit of a wild west out there, but they are making some decent watches and often with better alignment than Seiko.
@@RandallSlick I have no doubt the chap from Steeldive UK is honest. Must be difficult dealing with watches with poor qc. Have put up a poll re Steeldive 1970 and will reference it in a steeldive vid in next week or so. Bought another sd1970 ( the newer C version with multicoloured lume). This is a lot better but unfortunately it is 4 from 4 on this model with misaligned bezel. But no doubt I will be told this is unusual by the SD fans!
My SD1975 is really great quality and has been for a couple of years now. Its far better quality than my Seiko 007 so i guess you have to ask yourself if you just got a bad one/Id say that what yoi got for £60 wasnt massively worse than what i got with the 007;for a lot more money
You need to to follow up on the SD1970c follow up. It was three poor ones on the trot... And the fourth one was better but still had a misaligned bezel. The original failed after 3 weeks :(