The best recommendation for someone who just wants one nice watch for around $1,000. Built like a tank and can be rocked in a swimsuit, business suit, and everything in between.
like a tank? I have one and its broken and time loosing 25s. I just spend on this shit 500£ but now prices going up for some reason, and now people paying 1k? wtf? :D
These are both great everyday beaters. Full disclosure, I am a Sinn Fanboy, but you just can’t go wrong with these. Super (Bordering on fanatical) build quality, with no nonsense pricing make these the perfect choice for anyone who likes to fly under the radar.
I bought a Sinn 556 I watch in 2013, as many have noted it's a versatile piece that can be worn with just about anything. About a year or so ago, however, it started losing significant time, and/or stopping completely overnight. I just sent into RGM for an estimate on repairs, they came back with...$535 to service. I recognize automatic watches require servicing, but that's pretty steep considering the price of the watch. Curious to hear from other owners what their maintenance experiences have been like.
I know this is an old comment, but wanted to say that the cost of the watch is irrelevant when it comes to servicing costs (for the most part). They’re mostly working on the movement, and while I do think that’s a littlleee steep for a common movement like this, it;s not insane by any means. RGM does fantastic work, as you’ve likely seen.
I considered the blue version, but finally went for the black one. I like the deep glossy black and the versatility of the monochromatic color scheme. Furthermore I chose the leather strap (don´t like bracelets too much), which brought the price down to under 900 Euros. Great value for money.
I made my choice a few months ago: the 556 I B, but with the H-link bracelet. I was smitten by the sunburst blue dial, and the applied hands and indices. The lack of a date window also gives the dial a cleaner look in my opinion. The H-link bracelet seemed the most practical of the two offered bracelets due to the ability to make micro-adjustments and the diver’s extension. The drilled lug holes also make the 556 make swapping out the bracelet with a leather or textile strap easier. Great video, Teddy! 👍🏼
Another impeccable review. I like the black dial version. A watch you can wear everyday for every scenario. I might have to scoop up one...one of these days. Thanks again. All the best.
Was once told, always buy the bracelet option do to the price difference isn't great at time of purchase, getting an original bracelet at a latter date could cost 3x the price difference, not sure if this holds true for Sinn. But getting an original strap, or worthy replacement isn't a big purchase.
I own the black 556i on a leather strap. Weight is just 77gramm wich is ultra comfortable. The build quality is stunning for a watch under 1K. I can honestly recommend this watch!!
I have the 556i for some years now and *love* it beside my Omega Speedy Pro, Seamaster 300 Co-Ax and Junghans Max Bill Chronoscope. Most of the time I wear the Sinn on H-link bracelet but it's also beautiful on a brown strap.
I vote for the black with date, that is simply a more suitable daily beater because you need to check the date to sign up any documents that may have in your daily routine. And It seems get more score with the bracelet from the blue one.
I have a 556i and I love it. However, one thing that annoys me, is the build quality of the clasp on the H-link bracelet. It's rattly and the outer part is of a thin, pressed, sheet construction. Closing it doesn't feel positive and just uses friction to stay shut. It's been unchanged for years and really needs replacing with something worthy of a watch costing over a grand.
@Lee ... sorry to hear about your experience. The end links on my bracelet were so tight that I could not remove the bracelet and fit the silicone strap. I sold my U200 to someone who was desperate to own one and he had his local German AD remove the bracelet and fit the silicone strap.
Got my Sinn 556i today and I could not be happier. I live close to Frankfurt and so i could buy it from their headquarter-store, its amazing to have all their watches side by side.
Just discovered the Sinn 556 today - The price point of $1,000 seems perfectly reasonable for this level of quality. It may very well become my first ever German watch.
I like them both, but honestly, the brown dial version not shown here is my favorite! Great review, though, Teddy. It really opened my eyes to this model.
The blue colored one looks nice, I do wear an Alpinist often, for some odd reason I love my Alpinist, smallest of my regular worn watches. Just got a Stowa B 42mm, a little bit more but have two other Stowa's, I guess we all have our favorite German brands, and both are of great quality. In the future, not near, I may try a Sinn. There is something about having a 39mm size factor, not to big, not too small. Almost bought a Mido Ocean Star but held off for the time being, getting my Omega Seamaster 300 and Stowa at relative close intervals made me hold off. My first Stowa was a Classic 36mm Flieger which I bought in 2008 it seems to wear larger do to being almost all dial. I do need to send it back for service. Teddy I love your reviews and interviews. You did put Sinn on my map, especially if I can find a clean pre owned.
For me the perfect Sinn 556 would be the black one but without the date and with same hands and applied markers as the blue one. So basically the blue version with a glossy black dial. Thanks for the Video. I am coming back to this many times per year becasue I am not sure which one to get and I still hope for my perfect black version 🙂Cheeers Teddy and Greetings from Germany
@@AI3JeWelz I didn't even know they were from the Frankfurt area, spent 3 years at Rhein Main AB right by the Flughafen. But that was sometime ago and a different time of my life.
Got the delivery, sent it back before i even tried it on without taking off the seal it is protected around. I put the watch straight on the timegrapher and it was between 0.3 and 1.1 beat error out. I immediately was so disappointed that the watch did not stand a chance of me liking it so it went back to the builders for a refund. SAD FACE
Was close to buy a 556, but it opted for the Longines Conquest Automatik 300 for some reasons... 1. I have a Longines AD just around the corner while the next Sinn AD is over 50km away... 2. The blue dial Sinn doesn’t come with a date and they don’t offer a silver dial which was my 1st wish 3. The Longines has the case of the HydroConquest which offers 300m of water resistance without being thicker as the Sinn 4. The Longines has the higher ETA 2892 movement brought down to 25.200bph for 64h power reserve 5. The Longines comes in 3 sizes 43/41/39mm - I opted for the Sinn like 39mm on my 8" wrist, but you can choose what ever is in your taste... Both play in the same league with around 1000,-€ on the bracelet. A few plus points for the Sinn... The Longines offers Lume only in the black or white dial version, but the silver plating on Indizes and hands is extremely reflective, so you can read the time with the lowest amount of light on the blue and silver dial... The Sinn H link bracelet as the advantage of the microadjustment while the Longines H link has a butterfly clasp with halflinks to adjust - but it fits great... The Sinn is a bit more toolish with its only brushed finish - the Longines has polished bezel and case sides and center of the bracelet (which I like...) So there is a great alternative to the Sinn in the same price range...
You can call mr. indecisive but...I like 'em both! There may be aspects of one I prefer over the other but they're both fantastic for their purposes. Though it'd be nice to be able to mix and match features of each.
Just bought a 556i Anniversary. It's quickly becoming my everyday watch. I would argue the anniversary gray sunburst is the best looking dial in this line.
I definitely agree with you, the anniversary is near perfect for my personal taste! Really hoping they release another (non limited edition) silver dial so that I can get one by the end of this year!
Man if you like the design those are such a great value!! Personally, they are missing that little touch but I think that’s in purpose! Anyway, insane value for your money and no fuzz about it! Just straight up good watchmaking
Thanks for watching Norman. I love the I B too. This was my first time getting to spend significant time with it. Would love to see a more glossy dial finish with the blue as I think it will help it pop.
So, which one is looking better in person. I really like the black one, but I love the 3d elements in the dial of the blue watch. The black one with the red second is kind of cool too 😎
Great video Teddy! The 556 is a great watch in either version. Personally, I own the 556 I B and love it. (The 556 A is also super cool. With Arabic numerals at 12, 3, 6, and 9 it looks great!)
I also prefer the black dialed version. Unusual for me, as I normally would prefer a blue sunburst instead. But here the supreme contrast between the white hands and indices (I also usually prefer applied rather than printed indices too!) and that inky black glossy dial is just sublime! My only caveat with the black dialed version is that I would prefer it without a date window. So normally the blue Sinn here with its applied indices, sunburst dial and no-date layout would be my choice, but I’m choosing the black instead! Very unusual for me indeed!
I’m wearing my 556i now, again, having bought one then sold it, then bought another one upon realising it’s the only thing that ticks all the boxes so well. Unfortunately I forget/need the date all the time so I’m happy to forfeit symmetry for function in this case, as per the maker’s intention with most of their pieces and their ethos in general.
...update: as per the flakey and fluid character of watch collectors, I have since sold the 556i a second time and purchased a Tudor Black Bay 36. I have no idea what date it is, but at twice the price of the Sinn, that's now the least of my worries. 😖
Daniel Vargas Hi Daniel, i found the 556 to look great from a distance but lacked depth up close, such is the no nonsense style of Sinn. The BB36 is simple too but has much better finishing, class, comfort, depth of character and is much more engaging when up close. I miss the date but it’s a price worth paying. I owned the Sinn 104 I too but found 36mm to be such a great size despite 7” wrists. If only the BB36 had 20mm lugs, it’d be perfect! The other reason is that I found the 556 to be ‘uncomfortable’ on the eye compared to the much softer Tudor. I presume you too are actually on the Explorer 1 journey, whether you know it or not! 😂👍
@@lucioledizerot196 I ordered one from Page & Cooper in the UK, but they canceled my order when they saw my address is in the US. There are some available from European dealers on Chrono24, but if I bought one and had it shipped to me, I'm afraid US Customs would confiscate it.
The 556 I presented here has a SW200, you can see the marking beneath the balance during the close up shots. However, it is still sellita's top-grade equivalent. Sinn has been using more sellitas as of late. I think it probably a result of being a large independent watchmaker outside of the swatch group. From my discussions with people in the industry, ETA has a reputation of being difficult to work with when scaling production. I am sure Sinn is doing this in order to have the number of movements they need in order to keep up with demand and are not going to let a third party movment provider get in the way.
@@TeddyBaldassarre That's odd. When I bought the 556 I (black dial) earlier this year, I could've swore it was shown as having an ETA 2824. I don't see that anywhere now on watchbuys. It appears to generically state the movement.
I had a 556i. Well built watch but gets boring to look at eventually, the outer AR coating makes it a smudge magnet and the lume is terrible so ended up flipping it. Great watch for the price though, buy one used though as they depreciate quite heavily.
If I didn't already own an early 2000s Omega Dynamic, I would seriously have this watch in my sights. Especially the 556 on the H Link bracelet. I would say it is a watch that would also look great on a leather pilot style strap. IMO, it could easily be a watch that could either be a one and only or better, one watch in a two or three watch collection. If you were a guy who wore a lot of suits and went to a lot of formal occasions, the Sinn would work as an every day watch along with a classic dress watch when you really want to dress up. And if you are more of a casual guy, maybe have a sport watch on a rubber strap or even something like a G shock along with the Sinn as an every day watch. Either way, the Sinn would be the watch that would get a lot of use in any collection because of its versatility. It is in the same category, IMO as the Rolex Explorer, and the Seiko SARB 033 and 035, depending on your budget.
Teddy, this video came at a great time and was very helpful! I’ve been considering the idea of a “one watch” collection but there are several boxes that need checked. The black Sinn you’ve shown here does a fine job! I’d say if you’re someone who’d love an Explorer but can’t/won’t fork over that money, the Sinn 556i is a fine substitute for the money! Great job and keep up the good work!
Thanks for sharing, Teddy. I'm looking into a 556IB or a Sarx045 as an alternative to an aquaterra 38.5. I know you've reviewed both of these watches-- so I'd like to know you opinion on which of these best give that aquaterra feel? Thanks!
Hi Teddy- Insightful Video. Did the 556i recently change it's movement from 2824-2 to SW200-1? If so, when did the movement change & why do you think they change it? I ask because all review/articles/publications dating prior to 2017 indicate the movement on the 556i is 2824-2 ( not SW200-1). Appreciate your help here. thanks!!
Great review. i am very close to getting the 556i and i have question regarding the dial. it wasn't clear from your review if the hour marking were painted on (completely flat) or a bit recessed or elevated. Can you please confirm?
I’ve been debating on the 556i vs a Tudor 1926 for a while now... I know they are different types of watches but both contenders for good everydayers in my opinion!
What do you think of the Sinn 856? I would like to see you do a review of that watch which seems like the 556 i's "bigger brother." It comes in at $2,000 US, but has some additional bells and whistles.
Hey guys, Teddy! So there are two watches I really love and I'm looking for a classy, cool summer style watch. The two specific pieces: Seiko SNK793 or Citizen NH8350-83L. I cannot deciede which one should I buy. There are good arguments on both. Which one do you recommend?
I couldn’t recommend either since I don’t have one yet. But I thought I might suggest a different Seiko that seems a little more on par appearance wise with the Citizen listed. It is the Seiko SNKL43. My guess is that unless you need a watch, Teddy would suggest aiming a bit higher. I would agree with him since getting my Hamilton. Just my 2 cents.
Great review, and what terrific watches. My concern is they overlap quite a bit with my Explorer, 214270. I don’t flip, the Rolex isn’t going anywhere, yet I’d really like one of these tanks.
I would go for the black dial. Question for you teddy. Looking at getting my first real watch and have narrowed it to the Hamilton khaki automatic 40mm black dial with bracelet. Or the Hamilton Murph. My wrist is 6 7/8. I love both but can only pick one. Thoughts
Totally up to you. If it was up to me, I would just go khaki automatic as I think the 40 mm case would look better on your wrist. At the end of the day, it’s your decision to make though haha, you got this! ✊🏻
@@TeddyBaldassarre hmm thanks Teddy, yeah it's a tough decision for sure cause I do think the 40 mm would fit better, howeverireallydo like that dial on the Murph. Ugh By the way I'm really enjoying your content on youtube. Thanks for creating it.
I just bought the 556 i for my son as his first serious watch. Even the nice bracelet, I swapped it for a nato strap, that fits better the 10 year old boy’s lifestyle and gives him the ability to use most of my straps (20 mms lug). I’m happy to see your video and confirm I made a good choice. Great video like always
Great video, Teddy. Although like a lot of watch videos, this has a bias towards the small wristed. “This is the perfect size, unless you have a large wrist, in which case you’re a monster and can go to hell.”
Hi, how sure are you that the movements in these timepieces are top grade? Cause I sent Sinn customer care an email about that and they said the movement in 556i is a standard one.
Sinn use the Premium grades which are the Same as Chronometer grades but not COSC certified. Stop movement and you will see balance wheel has curved arms rather than straight arms . Only Premium and Chronometer grades have this type of balance wheel.
Hey teddy I am also a great fan of watches and yesterday on Amazon and it suggested me a watch named Stuhrling can you tell me that it can be bought or not
Chinese made brand that is registered in America with a very wonky story. Is the quality bad? Well, yes but for the price they're alright. Not Swiss raleated though. I would look elsewhere for a) more tradition or b) higher quality or both.
The best recommendation for someone who just wants one nice watch for around $1,000. Built like a tank and can be rocked in a swimsuit, business suit, and everything in between.
like a tank? I have one and its broken and time loosing 25s. I just spend on this shit 500£ but now prices going up for some reason, and now people paying 1k? wtf? :D
likeris subruknem When did you buy it? Their prices usually don’t vary that much
@@gickojerke1262 2010
My 556 I is 10 y young, revised a month ago, and everything is good with it.
@@likeris2 The is surely stands to reason that they are all bad watches and the great reputation they have is all based on lies.
I realy love Sinn watches. That German over engineering is amazing and they offer incredible value
These are both great everyday beaters. Full disclosure, I am a Sinn Fanboy, but you just can’t go wrong with these. Super (Bordering on fanatical) build quality, with no nonsense pricing make these the perfect choice for anyone who likes to fly under the radar.
I bought a Sinn 556 I watch in 2013, as many have noted it's a versatile piece that can be worn with just about anything. About a year or so ago, however, it started losing significant time, and/or stopping completely overnight. I just sent into RGM for an estimate on repairs, they came back with...$535 to service. I recognize automatic watches require servicing, but that's pretty steep considering the price of the watch. Curious to hear from other owners what their maintenance experiences have been like.
I know this is an old comment, but wanted to say that the cost of the watch is irrelevant when it comes to servicing costs (for the most part). They’re mostly working on the movement, and while I do think that’s a littlleee steep for a common movement like this, it;s not insane by any means. RGM does fantastic work, as you’ve likely seen.
I considered the blue version, but finally went for the black one. I like the deep glossy black and the versatility of the monochromatic color scheme. Furthermore I chose the leather strap (don´t like bracelets too much), which brought the price down to under 900 Euros. Great value for money.
I made my choice a few months ago: the 556 I B, but with the H-link bracelet. I was smitten by the sunburst blue dial, and the applied hands and indices. The lack of a date window also gives the dial a cleaner look in my opinion. The H-link bracelet seemed the most practical of the two offered bracelets due to the ability to make micro-adjustments and the diver’s extension. The drilled lug holes also make the 556 make swapping out the bracelet with a leather or textile strap easier.
Great video, Teddy! 👍🏼
Can I ask where you purchased it from? I want the exact same watch (blue with H links)!
Of course! I purchased mine through Watchbuys, which is the North American distributor for Sinn.
I couldn’t decide between 556i or 556a, fine ink vs h-link etc.....I bought both for ease of mind. Couldn’t be happier.
Another impeccable review. I like the black dial version. A watch you can wear everyday for every scenario. I might have to scoop up one...one of these days. Thanks again. All the best.
I like the bracelet better on the blue, but I gotta go with the black
Thanks for watching josh!
Agreed. Wish they offered that combination.
You can order what watch you want with what bracelet or strap they offer directly from Sinn.
Was once told, always buy the bracelet option do to the price difference isn't great at time of purchase, getting an original bracelet at a latter date could cost 3x the price difference, not sure if this holds true for Sinn. But getting an original strap, or worthy replacement isn't a big purchase.
@@wills.9836 Just found that out, that's awesome!
I own the black 556i on a leather strap. Weight is just 77gramm wich is ultra comfortable. The build quality is stunning for a watch under 1K. I can honestly recommend this watch!!
I have the 556i for some years now and *love* it beside my Omega Speedy Pro, Seamaster 300 Co-Ax and Junghans Max Bill Chronoscope. Most of the time I wear the Sinn on H-link bracelet but it's also beautiful on a brown strap.
I vote for the black with date, that is simply a more suitable daily beater because you need to check the date to sign up any documents that may have in your daily routine. And It seems get more score with the bracelet from the blue one.
Own 556i for several years now...totally recommend them. Only watch in my collection I cannot see myself to sell
I have a 556i and I love it. However, one thing that annoys me, is the build quality of the clasp on the H-link bracelet. It's rattly and the outer part is of a thin, pressed, sheet construction. Closing it doesn't feel positive and just uses friction to stay shut. It's been unchanged for years and really needs replacing with something worthy of a watch costing over a grand.
For sure! It's the same bracelet construction on my U200. It's not the best, however, it is fit for purpose.
@Lee ... sorry to hear about your experience. The end links on my bracelet were so tight that I could not remove the bracelet and fit the silicone strap. I sold my U200 to someone who was desperate to own one and he had his local German AD remove the bracelet and fit the silicone strap.
I'm planning on buying a 556 A on the H-Link bracelet sometime soon, it feels like the affordable, German version of the Explorer 1. Great video!
The Sinn 556I looks great. Thanks, Teddy for the review.
Thanks for watching Milton!
Got my Sinn 556i today and I could not be happier. I live close to Frankfurt and so i could buy it from their headquarter-store, its amazing to have all their watches side by side.
The black for me ! I’ve been drooling on these for a while, also the Damasko
Just discovered the Sinn 556 today - The price point of $1,000 seems perfectly reasonable for this level of quality. It may very well become my first ever German watch.
I have the black one,its the most worn watch in my collection,great value for money.
I like them both, but honestly, the brown dial version not shown here is my favorite! Great review, though, Teddy. It really opened my eyes to this model.
Personally I really love the 556A, especially on leather strap.
I’ve been waiting for the I B to become available for weeks now. Come on watchbuys!!
The black pearl dial one is my favourite, just wish it came with a date window but might buy one anyway because of the dial but also the amazing specs
The blue colored one looks nice, I do wear an Alpinist often, for some odd reason I love my Alpinist, smallest of my regular worn watches. Just got a Stowa B 42mm, a little bit more but have two other Stowa's, I guess we all have our favorite German brands, and both are of great quality. In the future, not near, I may try a Sinn. There is something about having a 39mm size factor, not to big, not too small. Almost bought a Mido Ocean Star but held off for the time being, getting my Omega Seamaster 300 and Stowa at relative close intervals made me hold off.
My first Stowa was a Classic 36mm Flieger which I bought in 2008 it seems to wear larger do to being almost all dial. I do need to send it back for service. Teddy I love your reviews and interviews. You did put Sinn on my map, especially if I can find a clean pre owned.
I like the blue one, the applied indexes, the bracelet and the blue dial combination looks awesome! Nice video, keep the good work my friend!
Great choice Francisco! Thanks for watching!
Thanks for bringing attention to this brilliant watch
For me the perfect Sinn 556 would be the black one but without the date and with same hands and applied markers as the blue one. So basically the blue version with a glossy black dial.
Thanks for the Video. I am coming back to this many times per year becasue I am not sure which one to get and I still hope for my perfect black version 🙂Cheeers Teddy and Greetings from Germany
Finally a slow mo review understandable to the audience!!!
I just bought the 556 A in the Frankfurt store with a red seconds had 😬
At the headquarter or the other store?
Julian AI3JeWelz at the store
@@AI3JeWelz I didn't even know they were from the Frankfurt area, spent 3 years at Rhein Main AB right by the Flughafen. But that was sometime ago and a different time of my life.
Great score! 👍🏼
😍😍😍
The 556 I was my first better watch, a seriously nice piece. Wish they made a blue gloss dial version like Tudor with the BB36!
Teddy, I’d take the I B variant but with the H link bracelet. Winning
I totally Agree with you, I've the Sinn 556 I Black and she is absolutely fantastic !!!
I own the Sinn 556A and 104, which are both great everyday watches :) Thanks for the great review/comparison video!
Thanks for watching my friend!
Just purchased the 556i, waiting for delivery. Great vid
Got the delivery, sent it back before i even tried it on without taking off the seal it is protected around. I put the watch straight on the timegrapher and it was between 0.3 and 1.1 beat error out. I immediately was so disappointed that the watch did not stand a chance of me liking it so it went back to the builders for a refund. SAD FACE
Glad to own the mother of pearl version. A true tool watch with hidden class.
Was close to buy a 556, but it opted for the Longines Conquest Automatik 300 for some reasons...
1. I have a Longines AD just around the corner while the next Sinn AD is over 50km away...
2. The blue dial Sinn doesn’t come with a date and they don’t offer a silver dial which was my 1st wish
3. The Longines has the case of the HydroConquest which offers 300m of water resistance without being thicker as the Sinn
4. The Longines has the higher ETA 2892 movement brought down to 25.200bph for 64h power reserve
5. The Longines comes in 3 sizes 43/41/39mm - I opted for the Sinn like 39mm on my 8" wrist, but you can choose what ever is in your taste...
Both play in the same league with around 1000,-€ on the bracelet.
A few plus points for the Sinn...
The Longines offers Lume only in the black or white dial version, but the silver plating on Indizes and hands is extremely reflective, so you can read the time with the lowest amount of light on the blue and silver dial...
The Sinn H link bracelet as the advantage of the microadjustment while the Longines H link has a butterfly clasp with halflinks to adjust - but it fits great...
The Sinn is a bit more toolish with its only brushed finish - the Longines has polished bezel and case sides and center of the bracelet (which I like...)
So there is a great alternative to the Sinn in the same price range...
I’d go classic black with white dial. Great watches hopefully some day I’ll own one.
You can call mr. indecisive but...I like 'em both! There may be aspects of one I prefer over the other but they're both fantastic for their purposes. Though it'd be nice to be able to mix and match features of each.
Just bought a 556i Anniversary. It's quickly becoming my everyday watch. I would argue the anniversary gray sunburst is the best looking dial in this line.
I definitely agree with you, the anniversary is near perfect for my personal taste! Really hoping they release another (non limited edition) silver dial so that I can get one by the end of this year!
Man if you like the design those are such a great value!! Personally, they are missing that little touch but I think that’s in purpose! Anyway, insane value for your money and no fuzz about it! Just straight up good watchmaking
My Sinn favorite is the step up with the blue dial Sinn 856 A B Tegimented on Bracelet. Excellent video Teddy!
I prefer the 556 I with the black dial, it would have been perfect without a date window.
Spot on about the date window. Thats why I'm drawn to the I B.
Fully agree....
Sinn 556 I B is my favory; the alternative rolex explirer, Oyster perpetual and air king....
Watches no day, no date; a good top 10 or more .....
Thanks for watching Norman. I love the I B too. This was my first time getting to spend significant time with it. Would love to see a more glossy dial finish with the blue as I think it will help it pop.
more like a Timex Marlin alternative, for sure.
Is the Damasko DS30 watch an alternative? ...
Teddy; you are a master of Horology ..
So, which one is looking better in person.
I really like the black one, but I love the 3d elements in the dial of the blue watch.
The black one with the red second is kind of cool too 😎
Great video Teddy! The 556 is a great watch in either version. Personally, I own the 556 I B and love it. (The 556 A is also super cool. With Arabic numerals at 12, 3, 6, and 9 it looks great!)
Love both, I think I'd go with the I B. I own s 104 so the blue dial and no date would be cool
I also prefer the black dialed version. Unusual for me, as I normally would prefer a blue sunburst instead.
But here the supreme contrast between the white hands and indices (I also usually prefer applied rather than printed indices too!) and that inky black glossy dial is just sublime! My only caveat with the black dialed version is that I would prefer it without a date window.
So normally the blue Sinn here with its applied indices, sunburst dial and no-date layout would be my choice, but I’m choosing the black instead! Very unusual for me indeed!
I’m wearing my 556i now, again, having bought one then sold it, then bought another one upon realising it’s the only thing that ticks all the boxes so well. Unfortunately I forget/need the date all the time so I’m happy to forfeit symmetry for function in this case, as per the maker’s intention with most of their pieces and their ethos in general.
...update: as per the flakey and fluid character of watch collectors, I have since sold the 556i a second time and purchased a Tudor Black Bay 36. I have no idea what date it is, but at twice the price of the Sinn, that's now the least of my worries. 😖
@@mr_watchaddict3146 Why did you sell the Sinn a second time and get the Tudor BB 36? I am trying to decide between both watches as my next purchase.
Daniel Vargas Hi Daniel, i found the 556 to look great from a distance but lacked depth up close, such is the no nonsense style of Sinn. The BB36 is simple too but has much better finishing, class, comfort, depth of character and is much more engaging when up close. I miss the date but it’s a price worth paying. I owned the Sinn 104 I too but found 36mm to be such a great size despite 7” wrists. If only the BB36 had 20mm lugs, it’d be perfect! The other reason is that I found the 556 to be ‘uncomfortable’ on the eye compared to the much softer Tudor. I presume you too are actually on the Explorer 1 journey, whether you know it or not! 😂👍
Sinn also makes a 556 I with a gorgeous mother of pearl dial. Unfortunately, due to import restrictions, it's not available in the US.
It's pretty easy to find second hand or even new online to be imported into the US :)
@@lucioledizerot196 I ordered one from Page & Cooper in the UK, but they canceled my order when they saw my address is in the US. There are some available from European dealers on Chrono24, but if I bought one and had it shipped to me, I'm afraid US Customs would confiscate it.
What's the problem - why don't the US allow it?
@@JamesandRibble Mother of Pearl comes from a protected species.
@@blair424ify I thought mother of pearl was artificial
Both 556 versions have a top grade 2824-2! I love the black one , it's my every day watch! Cheers Oni
The 556 I presented here has a SW200, you can see the marking beneath the balance during the close up shots. However, it is still sellita's top-grade equivalent. Sinn has been using more sellitas as of late. I think it probably a result of being a large independent watchmaker outside of the swatch group. From my discussions with people in the industry, ETA has a reputation of being difficult to work with when scaling production. I am sure Sinn is doing this in order to have the number of movements they need in order to keep up with demand and are not going to let a third party movment provider get in the way.
@@TeddyBaldassarre Is that true that they regulate the calibers in the 556 in 6 different positions? Cheers.
@@TeddyBaldassarre thank you Teddy, I didn't know that.
@@TeddyBaldassarre That's odd. When I bought the 556 I (black dial) earlier this year, I could've swore it was shown as having an ETA 2824. I don't see that anywhere now on watchbuys. It appears to generically state the movement.
@@adamk1520 My 556 I that I bought 6 months ago brand new (serial number 18xxx) has an ETA 2428 hmm
Ive been to the factory building and shop in Germany and came away with a 356 Sa PILOT II, hard to resist :-)
I had a 556i. Well built watch but gets boring to look at eventually, the outer AR coating makes it a smudge magnet and the lume is terrible so ended up flipping it. Great watch for the price though, buy one used though as they depreciate quite heavily.
Wow these have significantly increases in cost since you made this video.
If I didn't already own an early 2000s Omega Dynamic, I would seriously have this watch in my sights. Especially the 556 on the H Link bracelet. I would say it is a watch that would also look great on a leather pilot style strap.
IMO, it could easily be a watch that could either be a one and only or better, one watch in a two or three watch collection. If you were a guy who wore a lot of suits and went to a lot of formal occasions, the Sinn would work as an every day watch along with a classic dress watch when you really want to dress up. And if you are more of a casual guy, maybe have a sport watch on a rubber strap or even something like a G shock along with the Sinn as an every day watch.
Either way, the Sinn would be the watch that would get a lot of use in any collection because of its versatility. It is in the same category, IMO as the Rolex Explorer, and the Seiko SARB 033 and 035, depending on your budget.
Love my 556a, great robust tool watch.
Teddy, this video came at a great time and was very helpful! I’ve been considering the idea of a “one watch” collection but there are several boxes that need checked. The black Sinn you’ve shown here does a fine job! I’d say if you’re someone who’d love an Explorer but can’t/won’t fork over that money, the Sinn 556i is a fine substitute for the money! Great job and keep up the good work!
Beautiful but in the same range there is the Titoni Heritage, very beautiful and high quality Swiss made 🇨🇭
Thanks for sharing, Teddy. I'm looking into a 556IB or a Sarx045 as an alternative to an aquaterra 38.5. I know you've reviewed both of these watches-- so I'd like to know you opinion on which of these best give that aquaterra feel? Thanks!
I’ve been looking at both of these as well! Would love to hear anyone’s opinion on this.
Love Sinn have the 104 and it won't go anywhere, miss my u1 will def get another one of these days.
I am itching to get another sinn soon. These 556s wear perfectly on my wrist. Awesome watches.
@@TeddyBaldassarre great everyday watches
Another 104i owner here. One of my favourite watches in the collection. I would consider the 556a for my next Sinn purchase. Great size.
Lovely video. I am hoping you will review the EZM 3 and EZM 3f.
I have the 556A (numbers at 3,6,9,12) on a sinn rubber strap wear it mainly at the gym, great sturdy versatile watch
What a great review. I fully second your view. For me, the 556 family is kind of addictive.
Hi Teddy- Insightful Video. Did the 556i recently change it's movement from 2824-2 to SW200-1? If so, when did the movement change & why do you think they change it? I ask because all review/articles/publications dating prior to 2017 indicate the movement on the 556i is 2824-2 ( not SW200-1). Appreciate your help here. thanks!!
Great review. i am very close to getting the 556i and i have question regarding the dial. it wasn't clear from your review if the hour marking were painted on (completely flat) or a bit recessed or elevated. Can you please confirm?
Hey Teddy, how about a top 10 vid on the best ultra thin dress watches...?
I’ve been debating on the 556i vs a Tudor 1926 for a while now... I know they are different types of watches but both contenders for good everydayers in my opinion!
same doubt here 1 year later . What did you choose in the end ? :)
@@SkyNikita322 went with the Sinn, couldn’t be happier!
@@MikeNardiTV thank you
I‘d so wish the blue one would have the date function, best of both
Great review Teddy! Nice to see you bring some attention to a real value piece. Keep it up.
Teddy - Can you try to get your hands on a Citizen Chronomaster? I'd like to hear your thoughts on comparing it to Grand Seiko
can you pls make a video over the brand louis xvi?
The brand looks good and all but you are the man with the knowledge and i want your opinion.
What do you think of the Sinn 856? I would like to see you do a review of that watch which seems like the 556 i's "bigger brother." It comes in at $2,000 US, but has some additional bells and whistles.
Sinn 556 black probably going to be my first high level watch
I have the Sinn 104 (white dial) and love it but tempted to get this black with rubber for daily use
Which one to go for? “Two” much choice! Probably no date.....
Just wish the black dial came with a no date version also the clasp is kinda cheap stamped steel but then I'm just nit picking.
Damn. I want that 556 I B blue dial with a date window and the H bracelet. Doesn't seem like that's an option.
Awesome video as always, Teddy!
Great video! Thanks! I’m about to buy this one.
Have a look at Guinand watches .... Proper old school SINNs !
Hey guys, Teddy! So there are two watches I really love and I'm looking for a classy, cool summer style watch. The two specific pieces: Seiko SNK793 or Citizen NH8350-83L. I cannot deciede which one should I buy. There are good arguments on both. Which one do you recommend?
I couldn’t recommend either since I don’t have one yet. But I thought I might suggest a different Seiko that seems a little more on par appearance wise with the Citizen listed. It is the Seiko SNKL43.
My guess is that unless you need a watch, Teddy would suggest aiming a bit higher. I would agree with him since getting my Hamilton. Just my 2 cents.
Great review, and what terrific watches. My concern is they overlap quite a bit with my Explorer, 214270. I don’t flip, the Rolex isn’t going anywhere, yet I’d really like one of these tanks.
I recently bought one and have a new review coming. I address this point briefly 👍🏻
I would go for the black dial.
Question for you teddy. Looking at getting my first real watch and have narrowed it to the Hamilton khaki automatic 40mm black dial with bracelet. Or the Hamilton Murph. My wrist is 6 7/8. I love both but can only pick one. Thoughts
Totally up to you. If it was up to me, I would just go khaki automatic as I think the 40 mm case would look better on your wrist. At the end of the day, it’s your decision to make though haha, you got this! ✊🏻
@@TeddyBaldassarre hmm thanks Teddy, yeah it's a tough decision for sure cause I do think the 40 mm would fit better, howeverireallydo like that dial on the Murph. Ugh
By the way I'm really enjoying your content on youtube. Thanks for creating it.
I like the blue, with applied indices.
Teddy please do a video on Zenith thanks
I can do that!
What does an every second Sunday at 3:15 am to 3:16 am look like?
I just bought the 556 i for my son as his first serious watch. Even the nice bracelet, I swapped it for a nato strap, that fits better the 10 year old boy’s lifestyle and gives him the ability to use most of my straps (20 mms lug). I’m happy to see your video and confirm I made a good choice. Great video like always
Your 10 year old son's first serious watch costs more than my serious ones. T___T adopt me.
I prefer the black dial, but I'm saving for a 104
Great video, Teddy. Although like a lot of watch videos, this has a bias towards the small wristed. “This is the perfect size, unless you have a large wrist, in which case you’re a monster and can go to hell.”
😂😂 I think 38 is a great size. I don’t know how big we are talking when it comes to wrists but I think this covers most.
38mm looks like a quarter on an 8:25” wrist. By contrast a 43.5mm Planet Ocean looks “just right”. So we’re people, too!
@@j.j.h.atemycereal You know what they say about man with huge wrists
I like the 556 but all three hands are too short. They look like they were made for a dial 1 or 2mm smaller.
The Nezumi X MGM Pink Panther Voiture is a lovely watch...
Nice, but I prefer Damasko. Nice video.
Why is that? Build quality, looks, engineering?
Black one looks better.
I wear a sarb033 daily. No need me for to change to Sinn here. But I love the 104
Teddy, what am I missing? Blue is $1,470 and the black is $1,320. That’s one heck of a rounding error!
From Malaysia
Love seiko
I'm sorry.
Hi, how sure are you that the movements in these timepieces are top grade? Cause I sent Sinn customer care an email about that and they said the movement in 556i is a standard one.
Sinn use the Premium grades which are the Same as Chronometer grades but not COSC certified. Stop movement and you will see balance wheel has curved arms rather than straight arms . Only Premium and Chronometer grades have this type of balance wheel.
Hi!!! Teddy, could you please tell me what you think about the maurice lacroix phase de lune LC6068?
Hey teddy I am also a great fan of watches and yesterday on Amazon and it suggested me a watch named Stuhrling can you tell me that it can be bought or not
Chinese made brand that is registered in America with a very wonky story. Is the quality bad? Well, yes but for the price they're alright. Not Swiss raleated though. I would look elsewhere for a) more tradition or b) higher quality or both.
Great video!
Can you compare to Damasko, also German?
Dandy Doc love Damasko, prefer them.
I like Sinn a lot. Both are really great pieces, but don't let the Pontiff watch this video.