No shade intended on the PRX, but given the choice , there is no question; the SARB033 is just the more special, Proud-to-own, type of watch. (and yes, I own both)
I definitely think the SARB is more special but the PRX will be much more historic and wanted in the future (I doubt - but if it ever stops getting produced). Both are incredible picks! I will say the SARB dimensions are perfect.
Definitely personal preference - I would flip a coin in all honesty and both watches are incredible. I love the SARB dimensions and ‘exclusivity’ now - but the look of the PRX is something else.
@@MyNameIsGhost Happy to agree to disagree ;-) …the topic at-hand I believe is just the modern PRX … not the actual legacy item. Personally, I’m just judging it for the thing itself… (in fact, I’ll take the watch-geek-debate a bit further , and predict that Seiko in a few years will come back with a reissue/reinterpretation of this watch; and then we could even once again compare THAT one to the modern PRX..!)
@@MyNameIsGhost Seiko has more history than tissot as a company period , its not even a contest lol . who cares about a single model when you compare the overall companies and the actual watches themselves . the prx is shite next to a sarb with an aftermarket bracelet .
Just received my SARB033 today. Got it for $425 and I freaking love this thing.....I also have the Tissot PRX and the sarb instantly felt more natural on the wrist once I resized it. Waiting for my uncle seiko bracelet to come in and this one one will be a keeper
Amazing! Great deal on the watch, it is a killer piece for that price! I do love the PRX so hope you rock the SARB one day and the PRX the other just to give it some sunshine! The Uncle Seiko Bracelet is something everyone recommended, but thankfully the OG bracelet adjustments were fine for my wrist. Wear your watches in good health, thanks for sharing!
I wish I had gotten into watches when the sarb was still being sold. I wouldn't buy one at the current price. I bought a Citizen NB1050-59E for my 30th birthday and I'm happy with it.
I bought a used Sarb033 for 380 dollars a little over a year ago. I absolutely adore the watch from quality to looks. There are some microscratches but that's OK because there's some personality to it and it feels a little more like a tool watch sometimes. I bought it because it feels like a baby GS but some say it looks like a baby Rolex OP and I was accused for that reason to purchasing the watch. So I guess it's the best of both worlds. This is my first proper mechanical watch and whenever I think about selling it back for a profit to buy a Tissot PRX or a used Longines Hydroconquest (topping up a little more), I look at the watch and was reminded on how good it looks and why it'll stay in my collection to remind me where I started from! OK that's a mouthful...
Thank you for this insightful comment and for watching my video! It was one of my first 'serious' watches when I first started collecting so I'm with you. We bought it at great prices and can appreciate the value still to this date :) let's keep it in our collections for a long time!
Thank you! I'm investing in a proper Macro Lens to get even better detail in the future since I've got more watches to buy and review. Let's enjoy and wear our SARBS's in good health!
Got my Sarb 033 a few years ago and although it doesn't get so much wrist time now it's still pleasure to wear. You described it perfectly in terms of its style and versatility but with that said I agree with you that the overhyped prices are too much for this watch.
100% I’m very happy to have picked one up years ago too. More than worth the price before so I can enjoy the value still - but no doubt a hard buy now.
I had the 035. Sold it when i got my Grand Seiko SBGA283. Nice watch but couldn't compete with the GS for wrist time. I've been looking at some vintage Seamasters lately for value and they're already classics.
I know what you mean! I love to collect but if my watches get barely any wear it’s best to sell to someone who will enjoy them more. Old-school Seamasters are absolutely class and 100% I always look for vintage before splurging on anything new because as you said value is immense!
Lucky you! Which one do you prefer out of the two? Back when I was buying my SARB, the 035 tempted me and my JDM seller has it priced for less than the 033!
Nice macro shots in the vid. Got my Sarb 033 about 6yrs ago brand new for £329. Loved it then and still do, but it doesn't get enough wrist time these days after getting a GS quartz in 40mm with black dial which obviously has much better finishing. The Sarb was an unbelievable watch for the price at the time given the specs and look of the thing, but to buy at inflated prices seems senseless - keep saving and get a GS, or even a Christopher Ward.
Thank you! We got ours for a great price so the love is still there! Would be different if we bought it now I think. You’ve got a great evolution of the SARB with your Grand Seiko - even their quartz models are engineered to the next degree. I’ve got a Christopher Ward Bel Canto coming next year so will be doing a video on that! 🙂
I bought mine around 2015 for maybe 200$. It is amazing. It is soo good that although I want to buy new one i ways end up saying but my sarb could cover that same scenario easilu just chanhing the strap. I bought one CW diver and since then i have difficult time with this hobby. Everything I consider like a jump in my Collection is so expensive its againts my will to pay for it...;) I would like to ad a chrono but all good ones are like 2k and above....
I know exactly what you mean! I used to jump the price of my next watch too, but have hit a roadblock where there are SOOO many incredible watches in the £500 to £3000 range that I might be stuck here for a while! 😄 I have bought much more affordable watches though, like my recent Timex Marlin (watch that video, it's a beautiful watch!) and some other pieces, so have stayed sensible...but this hobby keeps wanting me to go bigger! I just need a good reason to celebrate before I get too crazy. I do love CW divers, I really liked them back when they had the Trident logo on their second hands, and was on the list for over a year for a black Bel Canto, but due to delays I cancelled my order. I'll just use the money for a new end of year watch instead!
I was given one about two years ago by a friend before he passed. I'll always keep it for that reason alone. That said; it runs a bit erratically when off my wrist. Some mornings I check it against my G-Shock (AWGM100-A1) and it has lost anywhere from 2 to 20 minutes. And this happens after a solid day of wear. The movement is usually described as a problem in the reviews I have read.
No matter how inaccurate - any watch with a similar story is priceless. The accuracy of mine is adequate - but I have noticed that my Seiko Presage Cocktail Time is more accurate which features a ‘lower-quality’ Seiko movement. I’ve contemplated calibrating it but I decided to leave it unopened. Like you - I won’t sell the watch, but will wear it often for its looks! Thanks for watching and commenting, I appreciate your input and sharing with my audience!
What's wrong with the current price? Its not the deal it once was but Seiko has hiked the price on the 6r15 (and derivatives) massively across the board. Its still one of the most accessible watches with a 6r movement.
I get where you’re coming from - if getting access to the 6R15 is the goal, the 033 makes sense, especially at the right price. I just think some sellers are pushing it too far with how much they’re asking. When you can grab a Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 for around the same price, it feels like a tougher sell unless you’re really after that amazing black dial, sports watch look. Even the SARB065 - totally different style, I know - has consistently traded for less than the SARB033 over the past five years. Plus, for just a bit more, you could grab something like the SPB051J1, which retailed for $1000 but now trades for similar prices on Chrono24 as the 033. Bigger watch and a diver, but still - it makes the 033 pricing feel harder to justify. No doubt it’s a great watch, but the value just doesn’t line up for me these days.
@thecologneguy it's a cheap 6r movement with the classic Seiko grammar of design. Yeah you can get a Tissot for around that price or even a Hamilton (at least here in the UK there's a few kicking around TK Maxx/TJ Maxx) but they are different watches that are apples to oranges comparisons. Also why is a diver with the same price justified at a little more but the 033 is not? Look at the specs. Is the movement justified for the price? Yes. Is the crystal sapphire? Yes. Hell the finishing on the case is still better than many more expensive watches and the dial is something of beauty. The sarb033 is the cheapest watch I own. Even accounting for current prices, it would still be the cheapest but it's doesn't look or feel like it.
You're absolutely right, it’s apples to oranges. For a watch that looks like the 033, you won’t find anything close to its price with a 6R15 movement. If that’s all someone cares about, then the value discussion and other recommendations pretty much end there. I’m just throwing out suggestions for those who are a bit more flexible and enjoy exploring other options! Honestly, for me, the thought of buying watches and researching on the one to go for is often more enjoyable than actually pulling out the wallet! :D
@thecologneguy well you were saying the 033 is now bad value and you should get other watches instead... Your video is about how you "shouldn't buy" the sarb033.
@JimIBobIJones I still stand by what I said in the video - I’m not as strict with my watch choices as you seem to be. For you, this is the best value for the watch you’re after, but it’s not my personal preference (it was when I bought the watch, I don’t think so anymore at it’s current value). Just to clarify - I do own and love this watch! I’m just sharing my honest thoughts. I’m agreeing with your replies because, for your taste, the SARB033 really does make the most sense.
This is not the case, if you know how to buy from Japan you can find these clean. I paid $345 in amazing pre-owned condition. I found it in January and can't keep it off my wrist. This is the best cheap used watch under $400.
A very good deal but a rare one, so this is definitely the case for most. The obvious places to pick this watch up, you will see it going for ridiculous prices. Where did you buy yours? I’m sure any viewers looking to pick it up would want to know! Thanks for sharing, watching and wear your SARB in good health!
You should hopefully still be able to find a few sensible sellers to get one again if you are patient! The 035 is still a class watch so don't be too down, that will catch-up soon with being harder to get!
I’ve heard this recommended a lot, and with a lack of micro-adjustments on the original bracelet, this is a great recommendation! It’s a great watch, and considering it’s your second time adding it to your collection, I’m sure you agree! Thanks for watching and commenting!
Enjoyed your review. I have the Sarbo35 and its a nice little watch. But to be honest I like the Seiko Sary057 more. It has a much nicer face and is a little bigger but thats just personal taste.
Thank you! I have to say - the SARY057 is possibly the best alternative for the SARB right now. It’s bang on in terms of looks with the subtle differences, which you and many others may prefer! Thanks for watching Bill.
Hey! I believe both watches are identical, except your SARB071 comes with a factory leather strap which looks great! As it's the same as the SARB033, I think it's a great watch.
Was such a good value back in the day - honestly a no-brainer. Now though, exactly what you said, only safely recommend for those that just want this watch and nothing more. There any many great alternatives that will scratch the itch!
I have both of these and got them both around $300 few years back. I would buy them again at around $500-600. Inflation just drove everything up. Can’t find anything close to these specs, movement, sapphire crystal. Everything 6R movement watch are over $1000 and the design of Watch is not that nice!
@@felipec2157exactly! I bought the watch for $550 in beautiful condition on the outside, got it serviced for another $100 so around $650 in total and there are just no other watches in this price range that I love the design of like the sarb. Plus inflation makes it so that $650 today was $450 in 2010. So it really isn't THAT bad
Definitely - and I believe an Oyster Perpetual (although much pricier) is one of the safest and best watches to buy if you could only wear one watch for life because of just how versatile it is. Truly worthy of being crowned the One-Watch king 👑
Yeah I was lucky to buy mine brand new retail over 11 years ago. Still have it and absolutely love the looks, design and quality. It compares highly favourably to my GS SBGX261. Only thing is, since day one, the movement in mine has run like a bag of d!@ks at about minus 40 seconds a day. Never bothered my too much, as I have so many other watches, and I'm sure it would be very easily regulated my any half decent watch maker if I could get off my lazy ass and go and get it done. Super glad I never sold it!
I don’t wear it as much now that my collection’s grown, but every time I pull it out, I wonder why it stays in the box so long! Such a good-looking piece - totally get why it had so much hype. It’s super versatile too! Pairs well with anything and the size is spot on. Your Grand Seiko is a beauty! I’ve always been curious about the 9F quartz, but I’ve got my eye on one with a white dial. My first automatic watch was a white Seiko 5, so I guess I’ve got a soft spot for white dials! I’m sure the stars will align one day, and you’ll get that regulation done on your SARB… or maybe not! Either way, you’ve got a keeper!
It's a great watch that once punched above is weight class, but for the new prices since being discontinued is lost a bit of its luster. I own one and will never sell it. But I believe there are many other better watches for the price
Im in the same boat - very happy to have picked one years ago but would think twice if a new buyer. It’s a future classic - only worth really getting if you get a good deal or just want it in your collection to hold. I think Tissot is taking the sweet spot for price to performance when it comes to a picking a luxury watch for a reasonable price.
They've not officially replaced the SARB with any model, but the SZSB012 is very close if you don't mind a bigger watch. As for why they discontinued it, who knows? 🤷♂️
It’s only seeming to go up in value but there is plenty to buy still. I don’t think you could go wrong with keeping or flipping it now as long as you’ve enjoyed owning it and want something fresh!
Ok so today i got to know that there's a brand called Seiko 😄 I'm sorry I'm not into watches... Btw I appreciate your guidance will help so many ppl out there who are into this ..
That’s the problem! I’m happy I got mine just in time. There are lots of great watches now that you can get in place, even from SEIKO themselves if you want a similar look/spec. Chrono24 does have some sensible sellers if you are dead-set on this one though, just need to wait for the right deal. Thanks for watching and commenting!
They should as it still has demand (And so I can watch the scalpers suffer! :D) Rumours were that the watch was at such good value with the 6R15 movement, that Seiko's more expensive watches weren't being bought. I wonder if that has changed.
It just seems a better value proposition considering the price hike of the SARB, but I understand that the SARB is a very loved watch to most, I know as an owner of it! Do you still wear yours often?
When can find a pm80 pr100 for around 200 euros, or a gentleman around the same price, I don't get why anyone would buy it with the current market with ppl just fishing for someone to buy it over hype
That’s the thing. This watch is great but the value is going away rapidly since people are going to be upping the prices - some watches for sale in the UK are at Tissot Gentleman prices, and probably in a year or two the majority may end up at PRX PM80 prices. Hype can really make or even kill the fun of watch collecting - but I guess that’s what this ‘new’ evolution is.
@thecologneguy Yeah, why I've gone over to just finding gem deals on good quality watches from brands with loads of history that are unique and not talked about, because their too small for most people, or in other cases because people refuse anything with a battery or a capacitator, because they have swalled too much romanticised marketing. 😂 I get very little dopamin from buying and wearing what is trendy. For me, it just makes the experience even more fun, having to dig deeper to find something special. Like mechanical special edition Tissots and properly limited edition mechanical German fliegeres with outstanding QC.
I know what you mean! Been looking at Vintage Universal Genève and Mühle-Glashütte because the value there is immense! Similar to Franck Muller which had a huge amount of hype which died down so you can find them for reasonable prices. This watch game is so fun at times!
I don’t wear smartwatches but if I did I’d go for an Apple Watch Series 9 because I use an iPhone. If I had an Android phone, I’d probably got for the Google Pixel Watch 2!
The sarb IS clearly better than a prx in my opinion, more versatile. And a better quality movement, the powermatic 80 is basicaly a throw away movement... Despite what the swiss would want us to believe.
+ the SARB has a faster beat rate and is more easily serviceable compared to the Powermatic 80 which I would only personally go back to Tissot to sort. Then again you get longer power reserve with a PRX. Either way I’ve got my SARB for a great price so I’m the good boat!
The sarb and the PRX have the same beat rate. The Powermatic 80 is the objectively better movement with a longer power reserve, better accuracy, and anti magnetic. Easier to size the bracelet on the PRX. Which also has a better looking bracelet. The sarb is just way overhyped and over priced.
You’re right! I was off with the beat rating. I will say the PRX has a nicer integrated bracelet BUT it is integrated so strap options are limited to what will fit. As for the PM80 movement - it is a workhorse 🙂
I don't have the best accuracy with this watch. My Seiko Presage Cocktail with the 4R35 movement is more accurate! If I ever got this watch serviced properly, I'm sure it would perform much better as to it's spec, but with my collection and with how often I wear my SARB, it's not worth doing in my opinion. The accuracy for me is fine for the odd wear.
Too much hype on this watch. I owned one & sold it. Bracelet was mediocre finished, clasp is cheap. I also sold the watch at a profit. You are a sucker if you buy it at a premium price. Orient Star, Citizen Signature Collection watches are way better.
I think the hype around it oversold the watch. Good that you got a profit but hopefully the person you sold it to wasn't a sucker 😄. I had an Orient Star (RE-AT0002E00B) I sold that was way better in terms of finishing, movement quality, movement decoration, and it even had an added power reserve feature, and it wasn't that much more expensive.
I've seen this comment a lot, and in all honestly my Presage Cocktail time is a more accurate watch. The movement itself is still very good quality, and if I did wear this watch as a daily I would get it regulated.
It’s your own opinion that will matter the most to you anyways - the bracelet is a step-up from the norm but I think you still won’t get behind the end-links and some of the spacing. If you don’t mind integrated bracelets, the Tissot PRX (quartz for a lower price, auto for a bit more) are very nice.
It used to be insanely hyped, every forum post or 'best watches to buy' posts/videos was plagued with a SARB recommendation. I am happy to own mine, but won't be ignorant with its current diminishing value.
No shade intended on the PRX, but given the choice , there is no question; the SARB033 is just the more special,
Proud-to-own, type of watch.
(and yes, I own both)
I personally disagree as the PRX has more history to it than this model from seiko (unless im wrong) but its all personal preference.
I definitely think the SARB is more special but the PRX will be much more historic and wanted in the future (I doubt - but if it ever stops getting produced). Both are incredible picks! I will say the SARB dimensions are perfect.
Definitely personal preference - I would flip a coin in all honesty and both watches are incredible. I love the SARB dimensions and ‘exclusivity’ now - but the look of the PRX is something else.
@@MyNameIsGhost
Happy to agree to disagree ;-)
…the topic at-hand I believe is just the modern PRX … not the actual legacy item.
Personally, I’m just judging it for the thing itself…
(in fact, I’ll take the watch-geek-debate a bit further , and predict that Seiko in a few years will come back with a reissue/reinterpretation of this watch; and then we could even once again compare THAT one to the modern PRX..!)
@@MyNameIsGhost Seiko has more history than tissot as a company period , its not even a contest lol . who cares about a single model when you compare the overall companies and the actual watches themselves . the prx is shite next to a sarb with an aftermarket bracelet .
Got a nice used one back in 2020 for around $150 and I still love it!
What a deal! An unbelievable value for this watch 😁 enjoy and wear it in good health!
Just received my SARB033 today. Got it for $425 and I freaking love this thing.....I also have the Tissot PRX and the sarb instantly felt more natural on the wrist once I resized it. Waiting for my uncle seiko bracelet to come in and this one one will be a keeper
Amazing! Great deal on the watch, it is a killer piece for that price! I do love the PRX so hope you rock the SARB one day and the PRX the other just to give it some sunshine! The Uncle Seiko Bracelet is something everyone recommended, but thankfully the OG bracelet adjustments were fine for my wrist. Wear your watches in good health, thanks for sharing!
I wish I had gotten into watches when the sarb was still being sold. I wouldn't buy one at the current price. I bought a Citizen NB1050-59E for my 30th birthday and I'm happy with it.
All that matters is that you’re happy with it. Most people don’t even notice you’re wearing a watch, let alone what it is.😅
I have an Alpinist…….$379.00 on Amazon in 2016. I just adore my Sarb 017. But oh man…I would love the 033 as well! Fine review!
Those prices 😢 oh how I miss those! Lucky we grabbed at least one back then. Enjoy your Aplinist!
I bought a used Sarb033 for 380 dollars a little over a year ago. I absolutely adore the watch from quality to looks. There are some microscratches but that's OK because there's some personality to it and it feels a little more like a tool watch sometimes.
I bought it because it feels like a baby GS but some say it looks like a baby Rolex OP and I was accused for that reason to purchasing the watch. So I guess it's the best of both worlds.
This is my first proper mechanical watch and whenever I think about selling it back for a profit to buy a Tissot PRX or a used Longines Hydroconquest (topping up a little more), I look at the watch and was reminded on how good it looks and why it'll stay in my collection to remind me where I started from!
OK that's a mouthful...
Thank you for this insightful comment and for watching my video! It was one of my first 'serious' watches when I first started collecting so I'm with you. We bought it at great prices and can appreciate the value still to this date :) let's keep it in our collections for a long time!
really good macro shots bro, I will keep my SARB033 for life
Thank you! I'm investing in a proper Macro Lens to get even better detail in the future since I've got more watches to buy and review. Let's enjoy and wear our SARBS's in good health!
Got my Sarb 033 a few years ago and although it doesn't get so much wrist time now it's still pleasure to wear.
You described it perfectly in terms of its style and versatility but with that said I agree with you that the overhyped prices are too much for this watch.
100% I’m very happy to have picked one up years ago too. More than worth the price before so I can enjoy the value still - but no doubt a hard buy now.
I had the 035. Sold it when i got my Grand Seiko SBGA283. Nice watch but couldn't compete with the GS for wrist time. I've been looking at some vintage Seamasters lately for value and they're already classics.
I know what you mean! I love to collect but if my watches get barely any wear it’s best to sell to someone who will enjoy them more. Old-school Seamasters are absolutely class and 100% I always look for vintage before splurging on anything new because as you said value is immense!
I have two! 😁The Seiko Sarb 033 and 035 😎
Lucky you! Which one do you prefer out of the two? Back when I was buying my SARB, the 035 tempted me and my JDM seller has it priced for less than the 033!
Nice macro shots in the vid. Got my Sarb 033 about 6yrs ago brand new for £329. Loved it then and still do, but it doesn't get enough wrist time these days after getting a GS quartz in 40mm with black dial which obviously has much better finishing. The Sarb was an unbelievable watch for the price at the time given the specs and look of the thing, but to buy at inflated prices seems senseless - keep saving and get a GS, or even a Christopher Ward.
Thank you! We got ours for a great price so the love is still there! Would be different if we bought it now I think. You’ve got a great evolution of the SARB with your Grand Seiko - even their quartz models are engineered to the next degree. I’ve got a Christopher Ward Bel Canto coming next year so will be doing a video on that! 🙂
I bought mine around 2015 for maybe 200$. It is amazing. It is soo good that although I want to buy new one i ways end up saying but my sarb could cover that same scenario easilu just chanhing the strap. I bought one CW diver and since then i have difficult time with this hobby. Everything I consider like a jump in my Collection is so expensive its againts my will to pay for it...;) I would like to ad a chrono but all good ones are like 2k and above....
I know exactly what you mean! I used to jump the price of my next watch too, but have hit a roadblock where there are SOOO many incredible watches in the £500 to £3000 range that I might be stuck here for a while! 😄 I have bought much more affordable watches though, like my recent Timex Marlin (watch that video, it's a beautiful watch!) and some other pieces, so have stayed sensible...but this hobby keeps wanting me to go bigger! I just need a good reason to celebrate before I get too crazy. I do love CW divers, I really liked them back when they had the Trident logo on their second hands, and was on the list for over a year for a black Bel Canto, but due to delays I cancelled my order. I'll just use the money for a new end of year watch instead!
I was given one about two years ago by a friend before he passed. I'll always keep it for that reason alone. That said; it runs a bit erratically when off my wrist. Some mornings I check it against my G-Shock (AWGM100-A1) and it has lost anywhere from 2 to 20 minutes. And this happens after a solid day of wear. The movement is usually described as a problem in the reviews I have read.
No matter how inaccurate - any watch with a similar story is priceless. The accuracy of mine is adequate - but I have noticed that my Seiko Presage Cocktail Time is more accurate which features a ‘lower-quality’ Seiko movement. I’ve contemplated calibrating it but I decided to leave it unopened. Like you - I won’t sell the watch, but will wear it often for its looks! Thanks for watching and commenting, I appreciate your input and sharing with my audience!
@@thecologneguy You're quite welcome. Thanks for the channel.
What's wrong with the current price? Its not the deal it once was but Seiko has hiked the price on the 6r15 (and derivatives) massively across the board. Its still one of the most accessible watches with a 6r movement.
I get where you’re coming from - if getting access to the 6R15 is the goal, the 033 makes sense, especially at the right price. I just think some sellers are pushing it too far with how much they’re asking. When you can grab a Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 for around the same price, it feels like a tougher sell unless you’re really after that amazing black dial, sports watch look. Even the SARB065 - totally different style, I know - has consistently traded for less than the SARB033 over the past five years. Plus, for just a bit more, you could grab something like the SPB051J1, which retailed for $1000 but now trades for similar prices on Chrono24 as the 033. Bigger watch and a diver, but still - it makes the 033 pricing feel harder to justify. No doubt it’s a great watch, but the value just doesn’t line up for me these days.
@thecologneguy it's a cheap 6r movement with the classic Seiko grammar of design. Yeah you can get a Tissot for around that price or even a Hamilton (at least here in the UK there's a few kicking around TK Maxx/TJ Maxx) but they are different watches that are apples to oranges comparisons.
Also why is a diver with the same price justified at a little more but the 033 is not? Look at the specs. Is the movement justified for the price? Yes. Is the crystal sapphire? Yes. Hell the finishing on the case is still better than many more expensive watches and the dial is something of beauty.
The sarb033 is the cheapest watch I own. Even accounting for current prices, it would still be the cheapest but it's doesn't look or feel like it.
You're absolutely right, it’s apples to oranges. For a watch that looks like the 033, you won’t find anything close to its price with a 6R15 movement. If that’s all someone cares about, then the value discussion and other recommendations pretty much end there. I’m just throwing out suggestions for those who are a bit more flexible and enjoy exploring other options! Honestly, for me, the thought of buying watches and researching on the one to go for is often more enjoyable than actually pulling out the wallet! :D
@thecologneguy well you were saying the 033 is now bad value and you should get other watches instead... Your video is about how you "shouldn't buy" the sarb033.
@JimIBobIJones I still stand by what I said in the video - I’m not as strict with my watch choices as you seem to be. For you, this is the best value for the watch you’re after, but it’s not my personal preference (it was when I bought the watch, I don’t think so anymore at it’s current value). Just to clarify - I do own and love this watch! I’m just sharing my honest thoughts. I’m agreeing with your replies because, for your taste, the SARB033 really does make the most sense.
Bought the SARB033 in 2017 for under 200 €, but 1,5 years later I bought the watch that I actually wanted.
Great deal in 2017 before its discontinuation! What watch did you end up buying?
This is not the case, if you know how to buy from Japan you can find these clean. I paid $345 in amazing pre-owned condition. I found it in January and can't keep it off my wrist. This is the best cheap used watch under $400.
A very good deal but a rare one, so this is definitely the case for most. The obvious places to pick this watch up, you will see it going for ridiculous prices. Where did you buy yours? I’m sure any viewers looking to pick it up would want to know! Thanks for sharing, watching and wear your SARB in good health!
It’s an incredible watch, and I should never have sold mine. I’ve had sellers remorse ever since. Fortunately I still have the 035.
You should hopefully still be able to find a few sensible sellers to get one again if you are patient! The 035 is still a class watch so don't be too down, that will catch-up soon with being harder to get!
Got one last year - for the second time. Just got the unclestraps jubilee on it - and it is AWESOME!
I’ve heard this recommended a lot, and with a lack of micro-adjustments on the original bracelet, this is a great recommendation! It’s a great watch, and considering it’s your second time adding it to your collection, I’m sure you agree! Thanks for watching and commenting!
@@thecologneguy I agree! I won’t sell it now. I even think it’s more usable than similar Grand Seikos. The GS is just too nice.
I know! A great all-day, every-day watch.
Enjoyed your review. I have the Sarbo35 and its a nice little watch. But to be honest I like the Seiko Sary057 more. It has a much nicer face and is a little bigger but thats just personal taste.
Thank you! I have to say - the SARY057 is possibly the best alternative for the SARB right now. It’s bang on in terms of looks with the subtle differences, which you and many others may prefer! Thanks for watching Bill.
I always preferred the SARY057.
It has a better size case for me, that 6R movement has too many issues and the price is far more budget friendly.
That's a great alternative, and the prices aren't ridiculous! For bigger wrists, and for a better deal, this is the way to go. Thanks for sharing!
I have the sarb071 like new i list in ebay with 575$ what is your opinion about this watch pls
Hey! I believe both watches are identical, except your SARB071 comes with a factory leather strap which looks great! As it's the same as the SARB033, I think it's a great watch.
I have a 033 but 100% would not buy it these days unless it is absolutely your grail watch. You can do better for the money with warranty.
Was such a good value back in the day - honestly a no-brainer. Now though, exactly what you said, only safely recommend for those that just want this watch and nothing more. There any many great alternatives that will scratch the itch!
@drodes examples please
I have both of these and got them both around $300 few years back. I would buy them again at around $500-600. Inflation just drove everything up. Can’t find anything close to these specs, movement, sapphire crystal. Everything 6R movement watch are over $1000 and the design of Watch is not that nice!
@@felipec2157exactly! I bought the watch for $550 in beautiful condition on the outside, got it serviced for another $100 so around $650 in total and there are just no other watches in this price range that I love the design of like the sarb.
Plus inflation makes it so that $650 today was $450 in 2010. So it really isn't THAT bad
Nice watch! But you can go also for an OP as an alternative. Looks also amazing.
Definitely - and I believe an Oyster Perpetual (although much pricier) is one of the safest and best watches to buy if you could only wear one watch for life because of just how versatile it is. Truly worthy of being crowned the One-Watch king 👑
Yeah I was lucky to buy mine brand new retail over 11 years ago. Still have it and absolutely love the looks, design and quality. It compares highly favourably to my GS SBGX261. Only thing is, since day one, the movement in mine has run like a bag of d!@ks at about minus 40 seconds a day. Never bothered my too much, as I have so many other watches, and I'm sure it would be very easily regulated my any half decent watch maker if I could get off my lazy ass and go and get it done. Super glad I never sold it!
I don’t wear it as much now that my collection’s grown, but every time I pull it out, I wonder why it stays in the box so long! Such a good-looking piece - totally get why it had so much hype. It’s super versatile too! Pairs well with anything and the size is spot on. Your Grand Seiko is a beauty! I’ve always been curious about the 9F quartz, but I’ve got my eye on one with a white dial. My first automatic watch was a white Seiko 5, so I guess I’ve got a soft spot for white dials! I’m sure the stars will align one day, and you’ll get that regulation done on your SARB… or maybe not! Either way, you’ve got a keeper!
Wasn’t this watch discontinued?
Yes! I mention this at 2:26 in my video and it’s the main reason why I personally believe it’s quite hard to justify paying for the watch now.
It's a great watch that once punched above is weight class, but for the new prices since being discontinued is lost a bit of its luster. I own one and will never sell it. But I believe there are many other better watches for the price
Im in the same boat - very happy to have picked one years ago but would think twice if a new buyer. It’s a future classic - only worth really getting if you get a good deal or just want it in your collection to hold. I think Tissot is taking the sweet spot for price to performance when it comes to a picking a luxury watch for a reasonable price.
What did seiko replace the sarb033?
They've not officially replaced the SARB with any model, but the SZSB012 is very close if you don't mind a bigger watch. As for why they discontinued it, who knows? 🤷♂️
I've grown tired of mine and want to sell it. But with all this talk and enduring hype, It seems like I'm holding on to something special.
It’s only seeming to go up in value but there is plenty to buy still. I don’t think you could go wrong with keeping or flipping it now as long as you’ve enjoyed owning it and want something fresh!
Ok so today i got to know that there's a brand called Seiko 😄 I'm sorry I'm not into watches... Btw I appreciate your guidance will help so many ppl out there who are into this ..
Ha no worries! Not everyone is into watches but I am an addict!
100%. Couldn't agree more! @akotov
I just bought one. 440 shipped.
Great price, very fair for this watch. Wear it in good health!
Вы их новыми купили?
Yes do a video about smart watches 😊
But you can't buy it new anymore, i have wanted this watch for so long but the second hand prices are extortionate now
That’s the problem! I’m happy I got mine just in time. There are lots of great watches now that you can get in place, even from SEIKO themselves if you want a similar look/spec. Chrono24 does have some sensible sellers if you are dead-set on this one though, just need to wait for the right deal. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Seiko should just make this available, I don't get why they stopped producing this
They should as it still has demand (And so I can watch the scalpers suffer! :D) Rumours were that the watch was at such good value with the 6R15 movement, that Seiko's more expensive watches weren't being bought. I wonder if that has changed.
Bought mine 4-5y ago for 350usd
A great value back then - we did well! Was special wearing it back.
Prx over sarb?? Bugging
It just seems a better value proposition considering the price hike of the SARB, but I understand that the SARB is a very loved watch to most, I know as an owner of it! Do you still wear yours often?
@ yeah I agree with the crazy price tbh, and yes I wear it the most, such a beautiful watch
When can find a pm80 pr100 for around 200 euros, or a gentleman around the same price, I don't get why anyone would buy it with the current market with ppl just fishing for someone to buy it over hype
That’s the thing. This watch is great but the value is going away rapidly since people are going to be upping the prices - some watches for sale in the UK are at Tissot Gentleman prices, and probably in a year or two the majority may end up at PRX PM80 prices. Hype can really make or even kill the fun of watch collecting - but I guess that’s what this ‘new’ evolution is.
@thecologneguy Yeah, why I've gone over to just finding gem deals on good quality watches from brands with loads of history that are unique and not talked about, because their too small for most people, or in other cases because people refuse anything with a battery or a capacitator, because they have swalled too much romanticised marketing. 😂
I get very little dopamin from buying and wearing what is trendy. For me, it just makes the experience even more fun, having to dig deeper to find something special. Like mechanical special edition Tissots and properly limited edition mechanical German fliegeres with outstanding QC.
I know what you mean! Been looking at Vintage Universal Genève and Mühle-Glashütte because the value there is immense! Similar to Franck Muller which had a huge amount of hype which died down so you can find them for reasonable prices. This watch game is so fun at times!
Definitely 😄 @@thecologneguy
@@thecologneguytotally agree
Brother are you into smartwatch ? If yes can you just suggest me one
I don’t wear smartwatches but if I did I’d go for an Apple Watch Series 9 because I use an iPhone. If I had an Android phone, I’d probably got for the Google Pixel Watch 2!
I have the sarb033 and the less popular sarb021 😊😊😊
Lucky guy! Some great watches in your collection. What do you wear daily? Thanks for watching and commenting!
It's far too ENORMOUS
This watch? I find the 38mm size pretty good on my wrist.
The sarb IS clearly better than a prx in my opinion, more versatile. And a better quality movement, the powermatic 80 is basicaly a throw away movement... Despite what the swiss would want us to believe.
+ the SARB has a faster beat rate and is more easily serviceable compared to the Powermatic 80 which I would only personally go back to Tissot to sort. Then again you get longer power reserve with a PRX. Either way I’ve got my SARB for a great price so I’m the good boat!
The sarb and the PRX have the same beat rate. The Powermatic 80 is the objectively better movement with a longer power reserve, better accuracy, and anti magnetic. Easier to size the bracelet on the PRX. Which also has a better looking bracelet. The sarb is just way overhyped and over priced.
You’re right! I was off with the beat rating. I will say the PRX has a nicer integrated bracelet BUT it is integrated so strap options are limited to what will fit. As for the PM80 movement - it is a workhorse 🙂
Such a great design. Too bad its movement absolutely sucks
I don't have the best accuracy with this watch. My Seiko Presage Cocktail with the 4R35 movement is more accurate! If I ever got this watch serviced properly, I'm sure it would perform much better as to it's spec, but with my collection and with how often I wear my SARB, it's not worth doing in my opinion. The accuracy for me is fine for the odd wear.
Too much hype on this watch. I owned one & sold it. Bracelet was mediocre finished, clasp is cheap.
I also sold the watch at a profit. You are a sucker if you buy it at a premium price.
Orient Star, Citizen Signature Collection watches are way better.
I think the hype around it oversold the watch. Good that you got a profit but hopefully the person you sold it to wasn't a sucker 😄. I had an Orient Star (RE-AT0002E00B) I sold that was way better in terms of finishing, movement quality, movement decoration, and it even had an added power reserve feature, and it wasn't that much more expensive.
The accuracy is not good
I've seen this comment a lot, and in all honestly my Presage Cocktail time is a more accurate watch. The movement itself is still very good quality, and if I did wear this watch as a daily I would get it regulated.
@@thecologneguysir in a day how many seconds+or-
Around 30 seconds +/- on average. My Ball and Tudor is a laser compared to it.
Meh il get a quartz one lol
I’d look at the SEIKO SUR311P1 for a similar looking watch in quartz, but it’s bigger at a 40mm diameter. For Swiss, the Tissot PR 100.
People here will not agree but I would never buy a watch with horrible end links like Seiko always has.
It’s your own opinion that will matter the most to you anyways - the bracelet is a step-up from the norm but I think you still won’t get behind the end-links and some of the spacing. If you don’t mind integrated bracelets, the Tissot PRX (quartz for a lower price, auto for a bit more) are very nice.
I had 3 sarbes (2 blacks 1 white) the last I sold for 280. The band wagon is ridiculous.
It used to be insanely hyped, every forum post or 'best watches to buy' posts/videos was plagued with a SARB recommendation. I am happy to own mine, but won't be ignorant with its current diminishing value.