@steelsteez6118 its ok if you put a crown on the dial though charge x10 the price. You can even get away with putting a blank case back on and people will praise how fantastic it is ?
SPB 143 is an insane watch. It's visual perfection. You can talk about what is underneath the visuals, like the movement and the bracelet, or the clasp, or the alingment of bezel/indices, but on a first look, it's a knockout.
I have one and it's perfect. And I set the 6R35 on Monday (this is Friday) and I'm slow by 27 seconds in 4 days, so not bad at all for a thousand dollar watch.
I was introduced the the Seiko SPB 143 from this video when it was first posted. I was obsessed with this watch and after reaching a milestone in my career, I decided to buy this watch as a gift to myself. It'x an amazing watch and takes up so much of my wrist time. Thank you for this Hodinkee!
Maybe one of the best 5 releases of this year, no matter what brand. The bezel with a very slight lip on the very edge will keep that bezel fresh and well protected. The SPB143 is the best in my book.
I found a SPB149 LE in a Seiko AD in the middle of nowhere 6 weeks ago, bezel aligns perfectly and getting +6 s/day while worn 24/7 since buying. Love it.
Just took my SPB149 off the wrist before going to bed. First serious watch I have ever owned but definitely not my last. This line of Seikos cemented my obsession with watches pretty well. I enjoy this "hodinky" very much. (greetings from Czech Republic.) Thanks for the video!
I've bought a lot of watches in the past few years, some high end, some mud tier. I get spoilt for choice with what to wear at times and indecisive. I recently bought the 143 and now it's the only thing I've worn in months. A true do it all at a reasonable price (discounted obviously). It really shines on Nato's.
100% Agree! “For those who have been around the block”; this is the Seiko that beats all Seikos! I just paired my Snoopy Tuesday with my spb143; this watch is sick!! I’m calling it my Omieika!
I really wanted a Seiko diver but as you say nothing ticked the right boxes... until now. Ordered the watch today & can't wait to get my hands on it. Good news is it looks like it'll be a strap monster too.
I got me the 147 and add a strapcode bracelet on it. Could not be happier with it. It runs great & accurate and I even get compliments on it! Perfect daily driver and is worth every penny.
Uncle's notes: Do you love the 62MAS reissue but hate the bracelet? The new SPB14x Oyster from your favorite Uncle will fix that. Sleek and slender and without those ugly male end links. What's included: One bracelet, one pair of end-links, two pairs of 2.5mm spring bars (one set with custom tips to fix any tolerance issues). Specs: Lug width to Buckle: 20mm / 16mm Length: 180mm Min.length after adjusted : 120mm Clasp : 316L Stainless Steel 16mm Milled Clasp, 3 micro-adjustment holes Thickness: 2.9mm to 2.3mm (thickness tapers) Net Weight: 70 gram Finish: Brushed metal Spring bar diameter: 2.5mm Lug end style : Standard Curved End Adjustment type : 7 removable links-- screw type adjustment Material : 316L Stainless Steel, all solid links (solid end links) SHIPPING INFO RETURN POLICY
I can’t afford top tier watches.I have a couple of Tudors the gmt and glamour double date.But my fav is this seiko I wear it every day as a tradesman.The coating they put on this watch is brilliant.I scratch my Tudors every time I wear them.This I wear every day looks fantastic and never scratches.
Based on this review I went out and purchased a SPB147, it's my first gilt watch, and I have to say it is so much nicer in person - in fact, it's beautiful. Thanks
Me too, just got mine today. How did you find that metal keeper? I had to change the silicone straps into a different leather one as that metal keeper was digging into my wrist.
@@fendushi I just figured out the fix - replace the metal keeper on the supplied strap with a keeper from a G-Shock Square, the black rubber/plastic ones that come with the regular black cheap Squares. Perfect.
@Jeff Patterson Ive actually replaced the keeper with one from a cheaper rubber Seiko strap. Its a perfect fit. I can wear it all day now. Thanks for the info though, I will try that one out too
As the owner of this watch and several Black Bays, no it does not. This is a great watch in its own right, but the Tudor quality is well above the Seiko. Build quality, finishing, movement all far better on the Tudor.
I just recently purchased an SPB253J1 Black Series Limited Edition. It's awesome. Not too big and not too small. It's a great piece to add to my collection.
Oh, thank God. Seiko FINALLY got the message. They downsized from their usual 44mm x 52mm Prospex case dimensions and got rid of the hackneyed 'Monster' handset they have used on every diver since the early 2000s.
Was already looking at this watch before seeing this review which made me determined to get it...Haven't been disappointed there's a magic about this one. Plenty of legit criticisms left here but trust me it's worth it.
@@michiel8888 can’t go wrong with a Seiko. :D Owning watches from certain hyped brands I still believe Seiko is the best and most important watch maker right now.
I'm sorry why are people bothered by the price? Are you in right hobby? "Oh, I can buy X and Y and Z for that amount of money" So just do it, no one is forcing anyone to agree with the price. You either want a watch and are willing to pay the price to have it or you aren't, are you gonna tell me a rolex is worth 10k or 15k now? a steel nautilus is worth 70k? Since when? even an omega only costs like 30% of it's retail price to manufacture. lmao when did people start to measure a watch value by the materials and labour involved? "Oh but it's seiko, we expect cheap watches" well, they have a shit load of other options you can choose, and even more expensive ones as well. If you really want bang for your buck, go chinese. Everything else you pay for heritage, marketing and demand.
Pricing is part of the hobby. Dont act like its not. Even if you can afford a rolex daytona, you will enjoy it more if you pay less for it. So people can complain about the price if they want. If you go out and get a nice bb58 and pay 6000 usd for it, and you realise its actually a 4000 usd watch you will end up hating that watch, every time you look at it, it will be a reminder that some retailer took 2000 usd from you. With this line its actually just the same, early buyers pay 400 usd more, cuz this end up in the 700 to 800 usd new. Check out the rest of the spbd line.
People are just a bit simple that's why. Most of the losers that are complaining would never even have bothered to go to a shop and hold this piece to understand
Most things we buy..use..enjoy..lose a % of $$ value after we've bought them. Thats the deal..cars, tech, clothes etc. Come to watches & they're looking for a ROI all of a sudden.
Havent seen it in person. Im hoping to pick between the 143 and 149. I already have the spb125j1 however i think its not as classy. Though i still like it.
@Bilal Ibrahim I think for the price a signed crown is not to much to ask. IMO it shows attention to detail and an extra level of dedication to the watchmaking craft. Seems like they choose specifically not to add one and I am not sure why.
I have one. The price seems high, but when you actually get your hands on one, you see it's only a bit high, not a lot high. The fit and finish on this is clearly a step above the cheaper Seiko divers. Other than the misaligned bezel, fit and finish on the watch head itself seems on par with Swiss watches in the same price range.
I bought one as my first 'expensive' watch. I love the design but for the price the finishing feels a bit of a let down. Mine needs the hands aligning correctly and the movement is running at least +35 seconds per day. The bezel is almost (not quite) correctly aligned at least. I still enjoy it but now I'm looking to experience something more refined when I make my next purchase.
I should add that I later bought the SRPD21K1 Great White Turtle and it's great. Good alignment, extremely comfortable and the movement runs at a very respectable +7 seconds per day. Bought on sale for 1/4 of the price of the SPB143K1.
@@matchat86 WTF? My girlfriend‘s Tissot that was $200 with that Powermatic 80 movement runs maybe about +5 seconds a day. That’s a shame, I actually wanted to gift this watch to my dad but I’m definitely not spending more than $1000 to get a movement that runs like my $80 Seiko SNK809.
@@pokie6087 I was disappointed with the poor alignment of the hands. The end links of the bracelet aren't as snug of a fit as I had expected and the bracelet itself can be a bit of a hair nipper. Also the antireflective coating on the crystal isn't that effective. I'd expected better from the reviews that I have watched.
I would love to add this to the collection. I need to sell a couple watches though. It’s so hard trying to split wrist time between so many pieces! Lol
@@canerbatman2303 I said ‘sub 41.5’ because everything is 41.5 it seems. Would have preferred 40, but this is a step in the right direction 👍 Have a good day!
Just received my one today. The watch itself is beautiful, the dial is clean and simple, the watch wears beautifully on my 17cm wrist, I do find the watch surprisingly heavy and quite thick at 13.7mm but I guess the stainless steel bezel has added to the weight. For a 40mm it's quite a hefty thing. The bracelet however is totally unacceptable at this price point. I feel very disappointed with Seiko and most of the reviews on TH-cam for stating that this bracelet is the best thing after Grand Seiko. I honestly think at £1100/$1200 this bracelet is a shambles. The looseness, the cheap fold over clasp and the horrible tinny noise it makes rattling on the wrist. I'm ditching this bracelet immediately for an aftermarket strap. Buyers be aware, the bracelet is the weakest part of this watch and its a shame that watches half the price from the Swatch group (Tissot, Hamilton etc) offer far superior bracelets. Love the dial though and the versatility is really hard to match.
Jeez it’s not that bad. I’ve had mine on a nato and a rubber tropic style strap but it looks best in my opinion on the oem bracelet. I love the rich tone of the diashield coated links.
@@bwcastillo I do like the tone as well . Have you seen how lose the end links fit ? Everyone I’ve seen is crazy sloppy . The clasp is terrible . I guess the bracelet itself is not bad but the end link fit and terrible clasp really bring it down .
@@zman8340 ehhh idk. I’m holding mine in my hand at the moment, the end links seem fine. The clasp is decent, for me it’s the superfluous dive extension that kinda takes away from the design. No one is ever gonna use that thing and it is just pressed steel, not milled. But as a whole it’s a nearly perfect watch in my opinion.
I got one as well. It’s great. Two small QC issues though, the bezel is slightly off of 12 by a fat hair width, and my hour hand doesn’t sit directly at the hour when it’s showing the minute hand siting directly under 12. The hour hand is slightly behind on the hour. I know I can adjust the hour hand myself, or can have the legit Seiko dealer I bought it from service it, just annoying to have to notice it and to think about planning to adjust it. Overall it’s great. New reason to buy 20mm straps since most are 22mm from SKXs and SRP777. It fits well with my old 18mm Kavu strap with the thicker logo pattern sewn on it, and the lume is awesome. Like pillows of green light.
Absolutely spot on, I have the 149 and couldn’t agree more, it’s the Seiko diver I always hoped the others would be. As you say if you’ve had all that went before but love your Seiko’s then this range pretty much nails it, the 6R 35 is running perfectly well, even the bezel lines up! ( hope I didn’t buy a fake 😊) I couldn’t ask for more, I’m not worried about a little play in the end links, life’s too short for that. A solid review which completely echoes my own thoughts. Thank you…
FYI, It's not all roses with the 6R35 engine in the SPB### range, guys who wear them for 6~8hrs daily and leave them on the sideboard for a day or so on a weekend may see a fair time lag from the 3hz,21600 vph,70hr. I bought the reissued 62mas SPB143j in April, did the 20 cranks as recommended by Seiko manual by did notice lower gains (+2:30, 1st mth, +2:05 2nd mth, +1:05 3rd mth) over 3 months to lag of (-1:10 this week alone ).This is still within official tollerence of +25~-15 secs per day but guys who don't sleep with their watches may have to remember to crank it. I've done 30 revs today so time will tell. Still it's nice to shelve it on Friday and whack it back on come Monday. Always a smile with a Seiko on your dial. Cheers Johno :)
i love this watch but the only issue i have is that the end links don’t match the case and lugs. imo it looks better on a strap anyway but i wish the bracelet was a good option too.
Forget Uncle Seiko, the bracelets are flimsy. If you want a bracelet that has no movement in the end links and matches the case then get the strapcode oyster with the sub clasp. I have that on mine now and it's perfection.
It’s also the diasheild coating. My ocd would bug me if the color of the steel doesn’t match. I really like the strapcode I might try that or the integrated strap xpro rubber.
Comment on TH-cam end cards: you should remove them, they get in the way of the text you display at the end of the video (here the watch specs). Anyways, great video :)
Uncle's notes: Do you love the 62MAS reissue but hate the bracelet? The new SPB14x Oyster from your favorite Uncle will fix that. Sleek and slender and without those ugly male end links. What's included: One bracelet, one pair of end-links, two pairs of 2.5mm spring bars (one set with custom tips to fix any tolerance issues). Specs: Lug width to Buckle: 20mm / 16mm Length: 180mm Min.length after adjusted : 120mm Clasp : 316L Stainless Steel 16mm Milled Clasp, 3 micro-adjustment holes Thickness: 2.9mm to 2.3mm (thickness tapers) Net Weight: 70 gram Finish: Brushed metal Spring bar diameter: 2.5mm Lug end style : Standard Curved End Adjustment type : 7 removable links-- screw type adjustment Material : 316L Stainless Steel, all solid links (solid end links) SHIPPING INFO RETURN POLICY
@@jimclip2012 Yes that’s true, I find myself saying it is what it is , However, I won’t be buying a bracelet for my slim turtle , For that, very reason .
Basically, the situation is this - Seiko want to move into mid-priced watches because their affordable watches aren't as profitable anymore. But they make their mid-priced watches with the same manufacturing base they use to make their affordable watches. This is an example - it's a step up from the usual, but it still has affordable Seiko divers all in its DNA and the same QC issues.
I´m used to pay 10 grand and up for SS Rolex and even a LOT more for vintage Subs and GMT´s from the 70´s. 1.200 USD is nothing compared to that. Just bought the limited edition blue dial SPB149 at about the same price as a 5 year Rolex service on one of my Subs :-) Love it, looks much better in the flesh. Pictures don´t justify. 70 hours power reserve, inhouse movement, curved and coated glass, amazing polishing with bevels, excellent dial/plots/hands arrangement, history and provenance in order. So WTF are people complaining about? Comparing with TAG, Oris, Orient etc. which are all DOG SHIT watch brands with no resale value at all. The limited SPB149 is climbing in value by the day and is way beyond 2 grand in Europe and on Chrono24 now, LOL!
People are just mad seiko raised prices to a more appropriate level. People who will never even pick up and handle a watch like this. People who like to complain. Nit pickers. Keyboard warriors.
I have that SAFarnie and that too is a great watch. Wears much smaller on the wrist than you would think (with a tuna case). Been eyeing this PSB143 for a while now!
I love this watch and have been looking for the 147 and it’s sold out everywhere I’ve looked except some vendor from China (eBay ) and I’m not sure about that, could be purchasing a fake plus returning anything international is a pain in the rear, good review…
Hello, I'm in Brisbane, Australia, there are still some around in Seiko agent retailers but are an "ordered" item. The very close copy is now being sold online from China under the "Steeldive" logo. Its an OK watch with a Seiko Copied NH35, 40 Hrs movement, but it ain't a Seiko, like Oils ain't Oils as the saying goes. I love mine and got the full 3 year warranty with online registration. FYI (+ 2min, 28secs) a month with normal 7~8 hours daily wear. So it may take a month to get one in but it's a sweet moment when you put it on your wrist, a worth the extra cash. Cheers, Johno :)
Mine arrived from the mail yesterday too! Mine also has a lumed index in the 3 position, which is not reflected in the video. I read somewhere in a comment section that Seiko had to do it to properly qualify the watch as a dive watch.
Uncle's notes: Do you love the 62MAS reissue but hate the bracelet? The new SPB14x Oyster from your favorite Uncle will fix that. Sleek and slender and without those ugly male end links. What's included: One bracelet, one pair of end-links, two pairs of 2.5mm spring bars (one set with custom tips to fix any tolerance issues). Specs: Lug width to Buckle: 20mm / 16mm Length: 180mm Min.length after adjusted : 120mm Clasp : 316L Stainless Steel 16mm Milled Clasp, 3 micro-adjustment holes Thickness: 2.9mm to 2.3mm (thickness tapers) Net Weight: 70 gram Finish: Brushed metal Spring bar diameter: 2.5mm Lug end style : Standard Curved End Adjustment type : 7 removable links-- screw type adjustment Material : 316L Stainless Steel, all solid links (solid end links) SHIPPING INFO RETURN POLICY
I have a 6 inch wrist and it is damn hard to find a small diver. I love vintage design and this Seiko hits a home run. This is on my list, not gonna buy any other watch until I get this!
I too have a small wrist and a mate of mine recommended a 44mm orient mako which I bought. I haven’t looked back. It wraps my wrist beautifully. Don’t be intimidated.
I'm in need of a do everything g tool watch... throw it on and smash it up. This (or rather the new glacier blue dial) is something I am very interested in to do that job 🤔
There is something so classy about this watch.
It's the unsigned crown. For sure.
@@steelsteez6118 we are not talking Rolex here.
@@steelsteez6118 omg
@@steelsteez6118 You joke, but it is, though. It's called 'restraint'.
@steelsteez6118 its ok if you put a crown on the dial though charge x10 the price. You can even get away with putting a blank case back on and people will praise how fantastic it is ?
SPB 143 is an insane watch. It's visual perfection. You can talk about what is underneath the visuals, like the movement and the bracelet, or the clasp, or the alingment of bezel/indices, but on a first look, it's a knockout.
I have one and it's perfect. And I set the 6R35 on Monday (this is Friday) and I'm slow by 27 seconds in 4 days, so not bad at all for a thousand dollar watch.
10 days later and the watch is still keeping excellent time, 30 sec slow.
I was introduced the the Seiko SPB 143 from this video when it was first posted. I was obsessed with this watch and after reaching a milestone in my career, I decided to buy this watch as a gift to myself. It'x an amazing watch and takes up so much of my wrist time. Thank you for this Hodinkee!
Congratulations. Happy for you. ❤️
Congrats! Amazing watch indeed.
Congrats! It's great to hear you love it so much. I need to go try one on locally. I like the Willard too, so I need to try that on as well.
Congrats man!
Maybe one of the best 5 releases of this year, no matter what brand.
The bezel with a very slight lip on the very edge will keep that bezel fresh and well protected.
The SPB143 is the best in my book.
simplicity yet sophisticated. Goes will with formal and non formal wear
Hats off to Seiko they always deliver on what the customers want!
I picked one up on release and it's by far my favourite watch, it's a joy to wear every time and I always find myself looking admiring it.
I’ve never been drawn to Seikos but this one is CLEAN
James has that kind of „no nonsense“ style about hin that makes me like this content even more 😀
More like an undertaker reviewing a coffin
Elisabeth Blancke haha I guess this falls under: „different strokes for different folks“ 😀
@@Seitsneddeppat come on, this is hardly an enthiousiastic attitude. 🙂
seiko is improving their line-up a lot the last year!
I just got the olive green “Willard” variant and I’m so impressed with the quality and the 6r35 movement. Seiko hit a grand slam with these!
Congrats, i ordered one so can't wait. Recently bought the SRQ029J, awesome watch.
I found a SPB149 LE in a Seiko AD in the middle of nowhere 6 weeks ago, bezel aligns perfectly and getting +6 s/day while worn 24/7 since buying. Love it.
Just bought this today. I love it and honestly best watch in my collection
Just took my SPB149 off the wrist before going to bed. First serious watch I have ever owned but definitely not my last. This line of Seikos cemented my obsession with watches pretty well. I enjoy this "hodinky" very much. (greetings from Czech Republic.) Thanks for the video!
I've bought a lot of watches in the past few years, some high end, some mud tier. I get spoilt for choice with what to wear at times and indecisive. I recently bought the 143 and now it's the only thing I've worn in months. A true do it all at a reasonable price (discounted obviously). It really shines on Nato's.
Mine arrived today. Thank you James.... I concur on all fronts.
James Stacey, killing the game as usual!... 👍
100% Agree! “For those who have been around the block”; this is the Seiko that beats all Seikos! I just paired my Snoopy Tuesday with my spb143; this watch is sick!! I’m calling it my Omieika!
Sick u have the white /blue omega snoopy ? Such a beautiful watch
I do not have the Snoopy, but I do have a black speedy Tuesday strap with white stitching. It pairs amazing on this Seiko and feels like pajama wear.
Just bought this thanks to this video. It's sold out everywhere in Australia until March 2021. Had to import this.
I've got 4. 😂
At long last a Seiko that’s not hockey-puck-sized or a limited edition AND has a classic handset. The dream
What exactly is classic about the handset?
Seiko definately have a hit here. Most watched hodinkee video in the last year!
I own this as well as a Seamaster, and the Seiko compares surprisingly well considering it cost 20 times less.
damn that's one expensive seamaster!
Very chad watches for a chad
Wow, never heard of a $24,000 seamaster before.
Your review made this Seiko desirable!
I really wanted a Seiko diver but as you say nothing ticked the right boxes... until now. Ordered the watch today & can't wait to get my hands on it. Good news is it looks like it'll be a strap monster too.
Fantastic review, I’ve been telling myself no more Seikos (I own 3), but this is on the list. The 143 is definitely my favourite variant.
If any watch review convince me to buy a watch, this will be the one!
My 149 is absolutely superb 👌
The 149 is better than this one. You are doing well :)
I got me the 147 and add a strapcode bracelet on it. Could not be happier with it. It runs great & accurate and I even get compliments on it! Perfect daily driver and is worth every penny.
Which bracelet did you get
Uncle's notes:
Do you love the 62MAS reissue but hate the bracelet? The new SPB14x Oyster from your favorite Uncle will fix that. Sleek and slender and without those ugly male end links.
What's included:
One bracelet, one pair of end-links, two pairs of 2.5mm spring bars (one set with custom tips to fix any tolerance issues).
Specs:
Lug width to Buckle: 20mm / 16mm
Length: 180mm
Min.length after adjusted : 120mm
Clasp : 316L Stainless Steel 16mm Milled Clasp, 3 micro-adjustment holes
Thickness: 2.9mm to 2.3mm (thickness tapers)
Net Weight: 70 gram
Finish: Brushed metal
Spring bar diameter: 2.5mm
Lug end style : Standard Curved End
Adjustment type : 7 removable links-- screw type adjustment
Material : 316L Stainless Steel, all solid links (solid end links)
SHIPPING INFO
RETURN POLICY
Love seeing you guys cover watches with more accessible price points.
James nailed it. The review was perfect. Seriously. SPOT ON.
I've watched this video so many times and bought one a couple of days ago. Truly a work of art. I'm very impressed.
I can’t afford top tier watches.I have a couple of Tudors the gmt and glamour double date.But my fav is this seiko I wear it every day as a tradesman.The coating they put on this watch is brilliant.I scratch my Tudors every time I wear them.This I wear every day looks fantastic and never scratches.
I've heard this exact thing. While Tudors are the better finished and higher quality watches, they scratch super easily as compared to this spb.
Tudor watches are top tier, my friend, don't look down on them 😳
Wish you showed it with the leather band from the thumbnail, great video though
Based on this review I went out and purchased a SPB147, it's my first gilt watch, and I have to say it is so much nicer in person - in fact, it's beautiful. Thanks
Me too, just got mine today. How did you find that metal keeper? I had to change the silicone straps into a different leather one as that metal keeper was digging into my wrist.
@@fendushi The metal keeper is a waste of good steel, never understood the pairing.
@@fendushi I just figured out the fix - replace the metal keeper on the supplied strap with a keeper from a G-Shock Square, the black rubber/plastic ones that come with the regular black cheap Squares. Perfect.
@Jeff Patterson Ive actually replaced the keeper with one from a cheaper rubber Seiko strap. Its a perfect fit. I can wear it all day now. Thanks for the info though, I will try that one out too
That knocks the socks off a Tudor dive watch if you ask me
pelagos
As the owner of this watch and several Black Bays, no it does not. This is a great watch in its own right, but the Tudor quality is well above the Seiko. Build quality, finishing, movement all far better on the Tudor.
@@marctravismba it better be for triple the price 😉 jokes aside it’s hard to compare those two models.
I just recently purchased an SPB253J1 Black Series Limited Edition. It's awesome. Not too big and not too small. It's a great piece to add to my collection.
i'm thinking if choose the one you mentioned, or if I go with the one on the video. Any thoughts?
Great review and vid Bro. Straight to the point of it's unique design and quality.
Oh, thank God. Seiko FINALLY got the message. They downsized from their usual 44mm x 52mm Prospex case dimensions and got rid of the hackneyed 'Monster' handset they have used on every diver since the early 2000s.
So what it works
Was already looking at this watch before seeing this review which made me determined to get it...Haven't been disappointed there's a magic about this one. Plenty of legit criticisms left here but trust me it's worth it.
Looks amazing. Just ordered. Such a clean design.
Where did you order?
Where'd you order it?
@@therickestpicklerick I ended up ordering mine on Gnomon
Seiko, please give this beauty a little thinner&lighter no-date-39mm brother.
It actually wears almost identical to BB58 which is 39mm.
@@jewelstd I am going for the SNE569 instead. Another beauty in 38,5
@@michiel8888 can’t go wrong with a Seiko. :D Owning watches from certain hyped brands I still believe Seiko is the best and most important watch maker right now.
@@polygoncoco and a signed crown
@@jewelstd I've actually heard the bb58 wears a lot more comfy from people who own both and also watch reviewers
I'm sorry why are people bothered by the price? Are you in right hobby? "Oh, I can buy X and Y and Z for that amount of money" So just do it, no one is forcing anyone to agree with the price. You either want a watch and are willing to pay the price to have it or you aren't, are you gonna tell me a rolex is worth 10k or 15k now? a steel nautilus is worth 70k? Since when? even an omega only costs like 30% of it's retail price to manufacture. lmao when did people start to measure a watch value by the materials and labour involved? "Oh but it's seiko, we expect cheap watches" well, they have a shit load of other options you can choose, and even more expensive ones as well. If you really want bang for your buck, go chinese. Everything else you pay for heritage, marketing and demand.
yes l
Pricing is part of the hobby. Dont act like its not. Even if you can afford a rolex daytona, you will enjoy it more if you pay less for it. So people can complain about the price if they want. If you go out and get a nice bb58 and pay 6000 usd for it, and you realise its actually a 4000 usd watch you will end up hating that watch, every time you look at it, it will be a reminder that some retailer took 2000 usd from you. With this line its actually just the same, early buyers pay 400 usd more, cuz this end up in the 700 to 800 usd new. Check out the rest of the spbd line.
I mean even if it's true what you're saying, people can still "complain" about the price if they don't think it's worth it?
People are just a bit simple that's why. Most of the losers that are complaining would never even have bothered to go to a shop and hold this piece to understand
Most things we buy..use..enjoy..lose a % of $$ value after we've bought them. Thats the deal..cars, tech, clothes etc. Come to watches & they're looking for a ROI all of a sudden.
I just bought one after watching your awesome video straight from gnomon watches. Im so excited! Thank you!
I love it.. on my wrist almost every day 😀
That gilt dial one is looking pretty sweet.
Ohhh dear , I’ve recently purchased an oris divers 65 and a doxa sub 200 . Now I want this watch too
Get a real dive watch and by the Oris Prodiver chronograph, it's a proper dive watch!!!
Wish there was a green one. This model is perfect size for me.
Great piece! I bought it as a BD present for myself 2 years ago.
That sold me. Ordering now.
James has been on fire
Well spoken. You really explain it well. Thank you.
Wanting less...exactly. The 143 is the best Seiko reissue IMHO.
I have this watch and I can't take it off. Is quite something. The bracelet fits like a dream compared to other Seikos and divers under $1000
Nice review James. Well done
I like it a lot. I just don't want to spend $1200 on it. I would rather wait a while longer and save up for the Tudor Black Bay 58 that I really want.
Wouldn't you then rather just save up and just buy a Rolex sub that you really really want?
@@plusgood15 Why Rolex when you can save up for a custom MB&F that your really, really, really, really, really, really, really want?
No
Oh well since you put it that way I stand corrected 👍👍👍😆
I have and Love the SPB 149 with the Blue Strap. Big Love 😍
Havent seen it in person. Im hoping to pick between the 143 and 149.
I already have the spb125j1 however i think its not as classy. Though i still like it.
I am picking up mine, tomorrow
Congrats, hopefully I can buy one this year.
@@sahilkhurana_ That would be awesome buddy
Just got mine. :)
@@Bigcucumber69 Congrats my friend.
I like the handset on these.
か
I couldn't agree more! Great review, straight to the point 👍. I have the spb053j and i found it a bit too big ,but this one at 40mm is ideal
I wish it came with a signed crown. Do not think it will stop me from getting one, but still.
@Bilal Ibrahim I think for the price a signed crown is not to much to ask. IMO it shows attention to detail and an extra level of dedication to the watchmaking craft. Seems like they choose specifically not to add one and I am not sure why.
I agree...I’ve been wanting to buy one of these more premium models from Seiko’s but the lack of a signed crown always puts me off!
@@fastbikesandtoomuchcoffee6871 why would you want extra billboarding on a watch
"Is more money more better?" Great to know that James has been keeping up with Hi-Low from Donut Media.
Yes I thought that too. It should be "more betterier" to fit in with today's internet language capabilites!
So glad someone noticed this :) huge love for the Donut guys an all they do. And even more respect after filming this in my living room.
Subtle HiLo reference. Well done!
I have one. The price seems high, but when you actually get your hands on one, you see it's only a bit high, not a lot high. The fit and finish on this is clearly a step above the cheaper Seiko divers. Other than the misaligned bezel, fit and finish on the watch head itself seems on par with Swiss watches in the same price range.
I bought one as my first 'expensive' watch. I love the design but for the price the finishing feels a bit of a let down. Mine needs the hands aligning correctly and the movement is running at least +35 seconds per day. The bezel is almost (not quite) correctly aligned at least. I still enjoy it but now I'm looking to experience something more refined when I make my next purchase.
I should add that I later bought the SRPD21K1 Great White Turtle and it's great. Good alignment, extremely comfortable and the movement runs at a very respectable +7 seconds per day. Bought on sale for 1/4 of the price of the SPB143K1.
@@matchat86
How does the finish feel like a let down.
Could you elaborate.
@@matchat86 WTF? My girlfriend‘s Tissot that was $200 with that Powermatic 80 movement runs maybe about +5 seconds a day. That’s a shame, I actually wanted to gift this watch to my dad but I’m definitely not spending more than $1000 to get a movement that runs like my $80 Seiko SNK809.
@@pokie6087 I was disappointed with the poor alignment of the hands. The end links of the bracelet aren't as snug of a fit as I had expected and the bracelet itself can be a bit of a hair nipper. Also the antireflective coating on the crystal isn't that effective. I'd expected better from the reviews that I have watched.
Really great video. James is an excellent presenter for these simple but important videos. Thanks guys.
I would love to add this to the collection. I need to sell a couple watches though. It’s so hard trying to split wrist time between so many pieces! Lol
Haha.. I like you James, your video, your enthusiasm and your taste
great review!! Nice job to Seiko as well!
Gorgeous! A sub 41.5mm watch!! 🤙
No, it's 40,5MM
@@canerbatman2303 I said ‘sub 41.5’ because everything is 41.5 it seems. Would have preferred 40, but this is a step in the right direction 👍 Have a good day!
Graham Quigley I preffer even 39. 40 is a really the sweatspot. 39-40.
Lovely watch. Just wish they'd gone for flat matt lume on the indices, as on the hands, rather than the shiny cushioned effect.
Just received my one today. The watch itself is beautiful, the dial is clean and simple, the watch wears beautifully on my 17cm wrist, I do find the watch surprisingly heavy and quite thick at 13.7mm but I guess the stainless steel bezel has added to the weight. For a 40mm it's quite a hefty thing.
The bracelet however is totally unacceptable at this price point. I feel very disappointed with Seiko and most of the reviews on TH-cam for stating that this bracelet is the best thing after Grand Seiko. I honestly think at £1100/$1200 this bracelet is a shambles. The looseness, the cheap fold over clasp and the horrible tinny noise it makes rattling on the wrist.
I'm ditching this bracelet immediately for an aftermarket strap. Buyers be aware, the bracelet is the weakest part of this watch and its a shame that watches half the price from the Swatch group (Tissot, Hamilton etc) offer far superior bracelets.
Love the dial though and the versatility is really hard to match.
The wears very comfortably on wrist. The clasp is very comfortable as well but yes, it rattles
not 13.7 13.1
Jeez it’s not that bad. I’ve had mine on a nato and a rubber tropic style strap but it looks best in my opinion on the oem bracelet. I love the rich tone of the diashield coated links.
@@bwcastillo I do like the tone as well . Have you seen how lose the end links fit ? Everyone I’ve seen is crazy sloppy . The clasp is terrible . I guess the bracelet itself is not bad but the end link fit and terrible clasp really bring it down .
@@zman8340 ehhh idk. I’m holding mine in my hand at the moment, the end links seem fine. The clasp is decent, for me it’s the superfluous dive extension that kinda takes away from the design. No one is ever gonna use that thing and it is just pressed steel, not milled. But as a whole it’s a nearly perfect watch in my opinion.
Great video, Please make a video line this but with the new Seiko spb 453
ok
I got one as well. It’s great.
Two small QC issues though, the bezel is slightly off of 12 by a fat hair width, and my hour hand doesn’t sit directly at the hour when it’s showing the minute hand siting directly under 12. The hour hand is slightly behind on the hour.
I know I can adjust the hour hand myself, or can have the legit Seiko dealer I bought it from service it, just annoying to have to notice it and to think about planning to adjust it.
Overall it’s great. New reason to buy 20mm straps since most are 22mm from SKXs and SRP777. It fits well with my old 18mm Kavu strap with the thicker logo pattern sewn on it, and the lume is awesome. Like pillows of green light.
Absolutely spot on, I have the 149 and couldn’t agree more, it’s the Seiko diver I always hoped the others would be. As you say if you’ve had all that went before but love your Seiko’s then this range pretty much nails it, the 6R 35 is running perfectly well, even the bezel lines up! ( hope I didn’t buy a fake 😊) I couldn’t ask for more, I’m not worried about a little play in the end links, life’s too short for that. A solid review which completely echoes my own thoughts. Thank you…
FYI, It's not all roses with the 6R35 engine in the SPB### range, guys who wear them for 6~8hrs daily and leave them on the sideboard for a day or so on a weekend may see a fair time lag from the 3hz,21600 vph,70hr. I bought the reissued 62mas SPB143j in April, did the 20 cranks as recommended by Seiko manual by did notice lower gains (+2:30, 1st mth, +2:05 2nd mth, +1:05 3rd mth) over 3 months to lag of (-1:10 this week alone ).This is still within official tollerence of +25~-15 secs per day but guys who don't sleep with their watches may have to remember to crank it. I've done 30 revs today so time will tell. Still it's nice to shelve it on Friday and whack it back on come Monday. Always a smile with a Seiko on your dial. Cheers Johno :)
i love this watch but the only issue i have is that the end links don’t match the case and lugs. imo it looks better on a strap anyway but i wish the bracelet was a good option too.
Look into uncle seiko bracelets, they have good options available for the 62MAS.
Forget Uncle Seiko, the bracelets are flimsy. If you want a bracelet that has no movement in the end links and matches the case then get the strapcode oyster with the sub clasp. I have that on mine now and it's perfection.
Talk to uncle seiko . He might be able to help .
It’s also the diasheild coating. My ocd would bug me if the color of the steel doesn’t match. I really like the strapcode I might try that or the integrated strap xpro rubber.
Comment on TH-cam end cards: you should remove them, they get in the way of the text you display at the end of the video (here the watch specs). Anyways, great video :)
I love the footage of the clock.
SPB I LOVE YOU
What an amazing watch. The build quality is really impressive at this price.
Uncle's notes:
Do you love the 62MAS reissue but hate the bracelet? The new SPB14x Oyster from your favorite Uncle will fix that. Sleek and slender and without those ugly male end links.
What's included:
One bracelet, one pair of end-links, two pairs of 2.5mm spring bars (one set with custom tips to fix any tolerance issues).
Specs:
Lug width to Buckle: 20mm / 16mm
Length: 180mm
Min.length after adjusted : 120mm
Clasp : 316L Stainless Steel 16mm Milled Clasp, 3 micro-adjustment holes
Thickness: 2.9mm to 2.3mm (thickness tapers)
Net Weight: 70 gram
Finish: Brushed metal
Spring bar diameter: 2.5mm
Lug end style : Standard Curved End
Adjustment type : 7 removable links-- screw type adjustment
Material : 316L Stainless Steel, all solid links (solid end links)
SHIPPING INFO
RETURN POLICY
Except the metal doesn’t match the darker Duratec coating on the watch. Pass. I have one, and the OEM bracelet is perfectly acceptable.
@@jimclip2012
Yes that’s true,
I find myself saying it is what it is ,
However, I won’t be buying a bracelet for my slim turtle ,
For that, very reason .
Basically, the situation is this - Seiko want to move into mid-priced watches because their affordable watches aren't as profitable anymore. But they make their mid-priced watches with the same manufacturing base they use to make their affordable watches. This is an example - it's a step up from the usual, but it still has affordable Seiko divers all in its DNA and the same QC issues.
The lack of a signed crown is shocking at the price
Love the watch,
Totally hate the X on the dial
it's not an X, mr sour grapes, it's a stylized PS for Pro Spex
@@bebuchwebmaster2046 in this case I totally love it... 😂
And me thinking is shit 🤣
@@alltheway99 😀😀 good comeback, no offense meant, bud 🍻
@@bebuchwebmaster2046 🍻
SPB143 is a perfect product
I’ve never owned a dive watch. Looking to make this one my first.
Great video. Thank you. I like this specific SPB143 watch very much, and was interested in knowing more about it.
Damn it.....I told myself no more watches.
I got myself out of this watch thing after buying a speedy an year ago, and now I'm back. Seiko take my money plz.
I have sbp187 and im thinking to add this to my collection
I´m used to pay 10 grand and up for SS Rolex and even a LOT more for vintage Subs and GMT´s from the 70´s. 1.200 USD is nothing compared to that.
Just bought the limited edition blue dial SPB149 at about the same price as a 5 year Rolex service on one of my Subs :-)
Love it, looks much better in the flesh. Pictures don´t justify.
70 hours power reserve, inhouse movement, curved and coated glass, amazing polishing with bevels, excellent dial/plots/hands arrangement, history and provenance in order.
So WTF are people complaining about? Comparing with TAG, Oris, Orient etc. which are all DOG SHIT watch brands with no resale value at all.
The limited SPB149 is climbing in value by the day and is way beyond 2 grand in Europe and on Chrono24 now, LOL!
People are just mad seiko raised prices to a more appropriate level. People who will never even pick up and handle a watch like this. People who like to complain. Nit pickers. Keyboard warriors.
So ORIS is dog shit brand? Aha
I have that SAFarnie and that too is a great watch. Wears much smaller on the wrist than you would think (with a tuna case). Been eyeing this PSB143 for a while now!
I love this watch and have been looking for the 147 and it’s sold out everywhere I’ve looked except some vendor from China (eBay ) and I’m not sure about that, could be purchasing a fake plus returning anything international is a pain in the rear, good review…
Hello, I'm in Brisbane, Australia, there are still some around in Seiko agent retailers but are an "ordered" item. The very close copy is now being sold online from China under the "Steeldive" logo. Its an OK watch with a Seiko Copied NH35, 40 Hrs movement, but it ain't a Seiko, like Oils ain't Oils as the saying goes. I love mine and got the full 3 year warranty with online registration. FYI (+ 2min, 28secs) a month with normal 7~8 hours daily wear. So it may take a month to get one in but it's a sweet moment when you put it on your wrist, a worth the extra cash. Cheers, Johno :)
Available in the UK
Try gnomon watches. Ship worldwide
Just order one from a Canadian store
Love the design
Saw the Leica and knew Id love this channel!
My brand new SPB143 from a Seiko Boutique that arrived yesterday is different. It has an applied lumed index to the right of the date window.
Mine arrived from the mail yesterday too! Mine also has a lumed index in the 3 position, which is not reflected in the video. I read somewhere in a comment section that Seiko had to do it to properly qualify the watch as a dive watch.
It's to meet updated dive watch standards.
I like mine . I got it for $1000 u.s . No tax.
I have mine on a Strapcode jubilee, great everyday watch!
And me!
🕗
✌🏻
Uncle's notes:
Do you love the 62MAS reissue but hate the bracelet? The new SPB14x Oyster from your favorite Uncle will fix that. Sleek and slender and without those ugly male end links.
What's included:
One bracelet, one pair of end-links, two pairs of 2.5mm spring bars (one set with custom tips to fix any tolerance issues).
Specs:
Lug width to Buckle: 20mm / 16mm
Length: 180mm
Min.length after adjusted : 120mm
Clasp : 316L Stainless Steel 16mm Milled Clasp, 3 micro-adjustment holes
Thickness: 2.9mm to 2.3mm (thickness tapers)
Net Weight: 70 gram
Finish: Brushed metal
Spring bar diameter: 2.5mm
Lug end style : Standard Curved End
Adjustment type : 7 removable links-- screw type adjustment
Material : 316L Stainless Steel, all solid links (solid end links)
SHIPPING INFO
RETURN POLICY
@@earlbee3196Uncle Seiko bracelets aren't up to par compared to the Strapcode equivalents for their respective models.
Wahre can i Buy the Brown watch strap from the Thumbnail 😍?
I have a 6 inch wrist and it is damn hard to find a small diver. I love vintage design and this Seiko hits a home run. This is on my list, not gonna buy any other watch until I get this!
Christopher Ward has an excellent 38mm diver that blows this one away for less.
@@StuntpilootStef Yea, that is nice. But I like vintage design, especially the Seiko vintage case.
@@raymondfoo9045 Steinhart has a 39mm vintage diver if you're ok with homages.
@@StuntpilootStef I would get CW if compared to Steinhart. I like CW, but I like this Seiko more.
I too have a small wrist and a mate of mine recommended a 44mm orient mako which I bought. I haven’t looked back. It wraps my wrist beautifully. Don’t be intimidated.
Nice looking - would have liked a ceramic bezel at this price point though.
Ceramic bezel i believe wouldnt fit this watch
Its a mas remake. Same with a black bay ceramic wouldn't work on that either. I.m.o
I'm in need of a do everything g tool watch... throw it on and smash it up.
This (or rather the new glacier blue dial) is something I am very interested in to do that job 🤔
Interesting piece. Enjoyed it. Regards.
always improve the vid quality... good job hodinkee
I’ve seen this video like 5 times 😂👌🏽
Then maybe you should have paid attention the first time, lol
@@wordsmithgobshite3296 no you!