It's great to see Danny landed in a good place. I am a Seikopath and own the Alpinist SPB 241 (1959 reimagined ) . I am looking to pick up the SPB 155 for all the reason Danny just explained. I will put it on a darkish brown leather strap and go on my way. Thanks Teddy for keeping your platform format and building it better than many content makers. I am looking forward to a visit to your brick and mortar, summer 2025, until then may you all be well.
I bought a baby alpinist a few months ago and honestly it's my favorite in my collection now. I LOVE the green, and the design. And it's dimensions are perfect.
More video's like this please i do love to hear you talk about eavery details of a watches but someone else talking about his own experience of his own watch was just lovely.❤
I’m so excited to see a video about this watch! I recently bought one as my first watch over £100, and I absolutely love it. It keeps time brilliantly, and I’ve really put it to the test-wearing it swimming in cold temperatures, to work, and on fancy dates. It’s such a versatile piece and so far the only time I don't use it is at the gym! I’m only just beginning my journey into watch collecting, and I actually discovered this watch thanks to one of your earlier videos where you talked about it. I couldn’t be happier with the choice-thank you for the recommendation and for all the fantastic content you create!
Discovered on this very channel, this was my first watch purchase, and I have loved my baby alp for almost 4 years now. Continuously interesting in different light settings, it's been with me abroad, to the office and on the couch. The complete package
As someone with a small wrist, this is such a perfect release. So simple but captures the alpinist core. The dial and simplicity are perfect. I'm going to really have to consider this along with the SSK033K1 for my travel watch
i did not expect another video on the "baby alpinist", it was released in 2020, so i was surprised it was revisited on the channel. I own the SPB157 and i am wearing it on the seiko bracelet. I have to point out that the the bracelet does taper, from 20mm down to 18mm, it is not a dramatic taper but it tapers non the less. One of the strong points of this watch is that you can wear it for every ocasion. Some users have pointed out the accuracy of the movement as a weak spot, from my experience timegraphers on this watch don't tell the whole truth, it performs better on wrist. It has 70 hour power reserve which is a lot and in order for the movement to perform accurately, as with any watch is to wear it non stop. Finally i would like to mention Teddys earlier video on the SPB157 did actually help me decide to purchase the watch in 2022, two years after release, cheers Teddy !
If these had the applied gold markers of the alpinist, it would be alot harder to resist buying one. The contrast of polished markers and the textured dial would be so nice.
Wow, I actually appreciate this watch way more now. I still prefer the Alpinist, but I see the Baby Alpinist in a new way. Great video! And I appreciate Teddy sharing the spotlight (but please don’t stop doing videos!).
I enjoyed this video. very well done. good script and beautiful close ups. Would love to see Danny on camera for the next ones - would make it feel much more personal and relatable.
I’ve had SPB157, the blue-eyed sister to this one, and I love it. Everything Danny said rings true, especially that it hits a really lovely sweet spot of small but solid, with exactly the right weight and mesmerizing perfection. The blue dial and strap is a perfect combination for me. And that polished conical bezel is perfect too.
Over five years in my collection and it is by FAR my most worn, most used watch. It balances classic looks with a sporty design that makes it feel suitable for pretty much any occasion. It gets compliments all the time, and is perceived as being more expensive than it really is. Dimensions are perfect . I can go on and on but i can’t say enough great things about it. If you’re thinking about it, buy it!
I’ve had this watch for about 6 months an and it’s seeing plenty of wrist time. I was watching it on some different websites and kind of scratching my head about the price given the specs and it popped up as a “like-new“ used example on that big giant website named after a rainforest. This was for under $400 which to me seemed like the right price point. The size is just right and it’s a classic design with just enough Explorer vibe, but with its own identity as well. I like to have a date complication and although others have complained about legibility of the date, I see that as a way of making it not conspicuous, but functional. On the negative side I don’t understand why they would use a polished bezel and it does scratch fairly easily. The Cape Cod polishing cloths seem to do a good job when there’s something noticeable, but I’ve only had to do that once. The bracelet is nice, although the clasp also is easily scratched. My watch picks up about 15 seconds a day which is not the greatest. I guess I’d say that if you can find one for a price you’re comfortable with and you like what you’re seeing here and in other places that show the watch you won’t regret picking one up.
Thanks for this video. I have had my 159 stuck on a 155 bracelet for years now and love it. "Perfect.watch" - from a guy who owns 4 Grand seikos and a Rolex.
I am in total agreement. I think of it as more Japan's version of the Explorer. It's got the vibe, while not feeling at all like an homage, plus the line has a long history. I bought a used SPB159 (gray/grey) version used last year for US$400 on the Alpinist bracelet (purchased that way, per the receipt). I think the SPB155 may be the best of the 3 non-LE baby Alpinists, but I still love mine. I like it more than my Seiko SZSB006 TicTAC, and I even find myself wearing it more than the technically better built and slimmer Monta Triumph (which also has a great quick adjust clasp). There is just something about it that draws me in, and it's the perfect compact size on my 7-inch wrist. Heck, I spent a fair bit of time with a new Explorer 40 at a meetup the other day and honestly lost a bit of love for it (always felt the 124270 is way too small on my 6'7" frame). It's all well executed, but doesn't have that je nais sais quoi of the baby Alpinist. I would say that is good news for my wallet, but I also love the Explorer II 226570 I own. That experience last week just solidified my choice of the two Explorers. I still wear my baby Alpinist weekly.
When I bought the spb155 last year I thought "this is a one watch collection, just buy a couple of straps and gone is my watch box". The watch box is still here but the baby alpinist truly has the value to be a one watch for life. Great review ✌🏻
At least it's not -45 😉 Assuming there's nothing wrong with it a watchmaker could regulate it for around 60 bucks as mentioned in the video. You shouldn't have to, I know, but it's a solution.
@@stephenmundane The problem is that they don't stay regulated, they are notoriously inconsistent. I've had five different 6Rs and all have been broadly the same, timekeeping is very sensitive to mainspring power remaining, temperature, and especially position. One of mine does +30 when dial up, -30 with 12 up, regulating can't fix that. My 4Rs are so much more consistent
I do my own regulation on my 4R36. I can get it to +5sec/day easily, but as stated before, it doesn’t last. A month later, I’m +15 secs- still fine for a $200 watch
The 6R35's accuracy problems are not "simply" corrected, as basic regulation does not reliably correct the shortcomings of this movement which result in its atrocious accuracy potential. I've seen some that regulate well to within -5/+6, across 5 positions, but others that vary so extremely that they are not possible to regulate to within the necessary delta of ±15. The reason is that Seiko still insists on using undersized balance wheels. When automation is used in watch assembly for mass production, the insistence on using such a small balance wheel relative to the movement size means that any miniscule poise error results in such poor accuracy delta. I have a Baby Alpinist. I had to dynamically poise the balance to make it run in any fashion that could be considered accurate. This necessity makes me loath Seiko as a company in the modern era, because vintage Seiko movements were built to a considerably higher standard. Dynamic poising is also no easy or simple task for any watchmaker, and if one happens to be an end user and not an owner who is a watchmaker, the cost to make some of the 6R35 movements run they way a >$700 watch should when it is brand new is a highlight of the shortcomings of Seiko as a modern brand.
Interesting, any insights as to why the 4r doesn't suffer from the same issue despite having similar architecture? I've found 4r movements to be pretty uniform, but have had some disappointing 6r movements especially on high amplitude drops in some positions.
Yes!! Thanks Teddy and Danny! I’ve been championing this watch as an Explorer alternative for a while, and been asking for this video for nearly as long! ❤ *edit* I agree with Danny as well regarding the fact that if the SPB121 is too quirky, go for this one. I tried on a 121 and it just didn’t hit me. This 155 hit me right in the feels and is one of my absolute favourites in a rather large collection.
My SPB155 runs -5spd and it's maybe the most beautiful of my ~30 watches. Superb suggestion on trying it on a dark brown leather strap. Thanks Teddy and Danny.
This is such a cool watch. I wasn't aware of its existence. I like it much better than the one with the compass, which was the only one I've seen. This Baby Alpinist is on my list for the future.
I bought this watch for myself as a birthday gift last year and like it very much. I have a couple of dozen Seiko 5 watches in the $200 to $300 dollar range, so this baby alpinist is my most expensive Seiko. For me, the only real negative thing is the basically useless micro adjustment of the bracelet, with only two holes so close togethrr as to offer no real change. You either get a good fit with link removal or you don't, and I didn't. Its either too loose or too tight. So my watch sits on straps. This green dial really looks nice with a contrasting color strap, like reddish brown. One other odd thing, unlike my lower cost Seiko 5 models, this more expensive watch does not have drilled lugs, so care must be used to not scratch the finish when you jam the tool in to compress the spring bar if your straps don't have quick release features. All in all, I have no regrets on the purchase of this watch.
The SPB211 which I own have this amazing Japanese paper dial in a reddish brown that is simply classy. I swapped the strap out for a black leather one for work. The things you Danny named as potential deal breakers were not for me neither. I did wish the sapphire crystal was double domed though. But some may argue that this gives it a nice vintage or retro feel.
Beautiful watch. Fantastic video as always, Teddy. Can you please feature an episode with the Seiko Presage SSA397 Zen Garden? It's another, fantastic presentation by Seiko, but I dont think too many people know about it. Keep up the great work 👍
Understandable, but numbers aren't telling the truth. I own the watch and the proportions are just right. The case shape and domed crystal let the watch appear slimmer or at least proportionally better than it actually is.
I couldn't agree more. The watch is quite nice and I like it, but the thickness ruins the elegant shape... Especially the caseback is way too thick. I'm still pondering to sell the watch, because it really bothers me.
I have had a Seiko SARB017 for about 10 years now and I wear it a lot and it looks great, like new! I put it on a vintage cognac colored strap that has an orange tinge and it picks up those bits of orange on the dial and it looks great! .....The dial is gorgeous with the gold indices and numbers, very classy, almost too dressy for a field watch...GG
i wear the alpinist 1959 reinterpretation version weekly. Damn near perfect watch. Dressy, sporty, over-engineered but elegant enough at the same time. Not sure about accuracy with the 6r35 (complaints are common with it) but it's an afterthought if you're only wearing a few days a week.
I have the green dial 1959 Laurel reinterpretation. One of my favorite watches. I like this baby Alpinist more than the dual crown Alpinist. I like the grey dial version on the baby alpinist I have seen, but I do not believe it is made anymore
I am the proud owner of the brown dial version (SPB211J1) and I have to say the baby alpinist can easily be your do-it-all piece, your one watch collection. It has this classic vintage look but at the same time looks refined, sporty and up to date. The watch is perfectly proportioned, the height can be daunting at first, but you get used to it. You can dress it up and down easily, I usually wear mine on leather straps daily, but natos also look great on them when you want that sporty and field look and Uncle Seiko makes decent quality bracelets for this specific model with a beautiful taper. It has outstanding lume, more than enough water resistance and almost 3 days of power reserve. Seriously, what else do you need? 😂
This is the Alpinist I want. I loved the dial and hands of the original, but the internal compass bezel and extra crown don't get along with my brain. But this watch has everything I love about the Alpinist with none of the junk I didn't like.
So I own this watch and it has been my primary daily wear for casual situations for more than four years - for dressy occasions, I wear a Rolex Datejust. This Seiko baby Alpinist has both good points and bad ones. The good points are the dial, the handset and the bracelet. Yes, believe it or not, I consider the bracelet to be a strong point. Seiko is known for poor bracelets and, in fact, I have a few of them. However, this one is the quietest and most comfortable of any of my Seikos. It is very smooth on the inside, so I forget that I am wearing it. The watch is very easy to read, and I do think that the guilt hands look beautiful against the fume green dial. The only poor aspect of this watch is the movement. The 6R35 is less accurate and has more positional variation than movements in other mid priced watches. It is more inconsistent than even the cheaper Seiko movements - based on my experience with four of these movements and many other Seiko movements. They tend to run slow, and they become slower over time. My baby Alpinist reached the point that it was losing 25 minutes per day, at which point I sent it in to Seiko. They serviced and regulated it. It was perfect when returned, but is now running slow by about 15 seconds per day, which is not terrible. It doesn’t like activity. For example, if I wear it biking, it will lose a couple of minutes per day. Not good for a field watch to run more slowly when the wearer is active. So I wear something else when I’m biking, going to the gym or some other exercise. Overall, for the price there is value here, depending upon your priorities. I think that I should just bite the bullet buy an Explorer, as I would appreciate a more accurate movement in a non-diver sports watch. But for now, this has been OK.
Agreed. I made a similar comment. Imo, it's overpriced. The movement is subpar, the case finishing is ok. I've seen better watches at that price point. I still wear it and enjoy it but I'm not going to lie to everyone saying it's all rainbows and unicorns.
I just sold this on C24 last month for $540. Only reason was because I am saving for a grail. Otherwise I would have kept it, loved it on the black strap instead. I think it's good value.
Ive had one for a couple years now. Still like it. But it does run really fast. Probably close to 40-50spd. And after about a year the power reserve is non existant. Stays running on my wrist. But dies overnight now. Needless to say I dont wear it a lot anymore. Its just too annoying having to set it every time i put it on
Get it serviced by Seiko. Might be under warranty still, if not, it might even be cheap to get serviced still. Reach out for estimates. Or maybe a local guy could regulate it for you
I think the 1959 version is the one to go for, I have the grey and the beige one. Had horrible luck with the 6R though, none of mine have been consistently accurate
Looks good but for just a little bit more I could grab the Hamilton Murph or other Field options. Seiko is supposed to be a budget brand I don’t know if I’d look to jump on this for $700+
What an alpinist should be with modern technology is a Citizen Promaster Land at6080-53L. My favourite watch, way cheaper and less baroque (and much tougher)
Every time I consider a genuine explorer I open my watch case and see my baby alpinist in green and gold and I’m generally satisfied. I don’t think I’ll ever sell it.
Thanks for the review! I own and really like this watch. However: 1. The case is at least 1-2 mm too thick. That's a pity because the shape of the case itself is very elegant. Just the caseback is way too thick (and the glass is useless). 2. The crown is unsigned. That makes the watch look cheap and is a no-go at this pricepoint in my opinion. 3. The lack of microadjustment options on the bracelet (there are only 2) is really an issue. It's either hit or miss. In total, I think there are more pros and these cons don't ruin the watch. But these cons are still significant in my opinion.
Maybe a dumb question but what makes cathedral hands “toolish”? They’re iconic and unique don’t get me wrong but it almost feels dressy, and almost out of place in a kind of charming way
I actually just bought this watch a couple of weeks ago. Overall it looks great, but I was unlucky enough to get one that was gaining 25 seconds a day. Terrible considering how much it costs, and I've had better accuracy from much cheaper autos. I ended up regulating it myself. It gained 1 second over yesterday. Let's see if that luck holds out . Overall I prefer the Hamilton Khaki auto I already owned which is similarly priced. More comfortable, much more accurate (+2s a day for me without having needed to regulate it) , thinner and lighter. The dial isn't as beautiful though.
I will never understand how the Alpinist or the Baby Alpinist are more popular than the Laurel Alpinist lines. The Ginza or Bamboo Grove dials are to die for, and unlike these they have screw down crowns and MUCH better bracelets.
It is too bad the Ginza Alpinist is not a regular production model, because that would be a huge hit. Just look at the price they sell for, despite being made in a good sized quantity for an LE (3,500). They sell for way more than my SPB089, which only had 1,959 made. The bamboo dials are interesting, but not a "wow" to me. I am not knocking them, but they're just a different look. I think the main issue is people love the SARB case. While the new Laurel Alpinist has a cool case in its own right, it's not as sleek. I think the 19mm lug width also does not help for people that want to put straps on it. There are a lot more 19mm straps than there used to be, buy nearly every one has 20mm straps laying around. It is just one more reason to pause on purchasing. The baby Alpinist also does have a screw down crown, and I can confirm since I am an owner of one. I am not sure why it was stated otherwise. The bracelet is very cool on the Laurel Alpinists. The clasp looks to be pretty much the same though, and construction is good on the baby Alpinist bracelet. I think it's just a looks thing more than a build quality thing, but it has been a while since I've had a Laurel on wrist.
It's great to see Danny landed in a good place. I am a Seikopath and own the Alpinist SPB 241 (1959 reimagined ) . I am looking to pick up the SPB 155 for all the reason Danny just explained. I will put it on a darkish brown leather strap and go on my way.
Thanks Teddy for keeping your platform format and building it better than many content makers. I am looking forward to a visit to your brick and mortar, summer 2025, until then may you all be well.
I bought a baby alpinist a few months ago and honestly it's my favorite in my collection now. I LOVE the green, and the design. And it's dimensions are perfect.
It’s a little thick. Could be slimmer. But I LOVE mine as well. Haven’t worn it for a bit because of my G-Shocks.
Perfect? Would you like it a bit thinner?
@@sensible202 it really should be thinner. But I’m not mad about it.
@@mistadopeman glad you're not mad.
Too thick
I've had it for four years and absolutely love it. By the way, it has a screwed down crown, not a push-pull crown.
Thank you for clarifying! I was scratching my head there ... and that small detail matters to me.
Teddy is such a dedicated worker, always steady and improving, it's fantastic what he has built, hope he continues to go from strength to strength
My wife got it for me for my birthday 11 days ago - absolutely love it
I recently bought a Seiko Prospex Alpinist SPB121, and I LOVE it!
It has become my everyday watch! Can't explain it, there's just something about it.
More video's like this please i do love to hear you talk about eavery details of a watches but someone else talking about his own experience of his own watch was just lovely.❤
I’m so excited to see a video about this watch! I recently bought one as my first watch over £100, and I absolutely love it. It keeps time brilliantly, and I’ve really put it to the test-wearing it swimming in cold temperatures, to work, and on fancy dates. It’s such a versatile piece and so far the only time I don't use it is at the gym!
I’m only just beginning my journey into watch collecting, and I actually discovered this watch thanks to one of your earlier videos where you talked about it. I couldn’t be happier with the choice-thank you for the recommendation and for all the fantastic content you create!
I love wearing my baby alpinist at the gym to counter the smartwatch omnipresence 😅
Just picked up this watch this weekend! My first Seiko :) It's magnificent.
Discovered on this very channel, this was my first watch purchase, and I have loved my baby alp for almost 4 years now. Continuously interesting in different light settings, it's been with me abroad, to the office and on the couch. The complete package
Same with me.
As someone with a small wrist, this is such a perfect release. So simple but captures the alpinist core. The dial and simplicity are perfect. I'm going to really have to consider this along with the SSK033K1 for my travel watch
i did not expect another video on the "baby alpinist", it was released in 2020, so i was surprised it was revisited on the channel. I own the SPB157 and i am wearing it on the seiko bracelet. I have to point out that the the bracelet does taper, from 20mm down to 18mm, it is not a dramatic taper but it tapers non the less. One of the strong points of this watch is that you can wear it for every ocasion. Some users have pointed out the accuracy of the movement as a weak spot, from my experience timegraphers on this watch don't tell the whole truth, it performs better on wrist. It has 70 hour power reserve which is a lot and in order for the movement to perform accurately, as with any watch is to wear it non stop.
Finally i would like to mention Teddys earlier video on the SPB157 did actually help me decide to purchase the watch in 2022, two years after release, cheers Teddy !
If these had the applied gold markers of the alpinist, it would be alot harder to resist buying one. The contrast of polished markers and the textured dial would be so nice.
Wow, I actually appreciate this watch way more now. I still prefer the Alpinist, but I see the Baby Alpinist in a new way. Great video! And I appreciate Teddy sharing the spotlight (but please don’t stop doing videos!).
Well researched and presented Teddy and Danny! Will purchase one from Teddy's team in a couple of weeks as a gift to my son. 😀
I enjoyed this video. very well done. good script and beautiful close ups. Would love to see Danny on camera for the next ones - would make it feel much more personal and relatable.
Great review and a good Idea letting others on your team take part as frontperson on presentations.
I’ve had SPB157, the blue-eyed sister to this one, and I love it. Everything Danny said rings true, especially that it hits a really lovely sweet spot of small but solid, with exactly the right weight and mesmerizing perfection. The blue dial and strap is a perfect combination for me. And that polished conical bezel is perfect too.
Managed to get my hands on a 1/1000 Australian Red Desert limited edition Alpinist for Christmas last year.
More than stoked with it!
Over five years in my collection and it is by FAR my most worn, most used watch. It balances classic looks with a sporty design that makes it feel suitable for pretty much any occasion. It gets compliments all the time, and is perceived as being more expensive than it really is. Dimensions are perfect . I can go on and on but i can’t say enough great things about it. If you’re thinking about it, buy it!
I have had one of these for 4 years and still love it
Yes this watch is lovely. I too own one for the last 5 years and it is really iconic. Heavy. Solid. Beautiful Green Dial with flecks of Gold…
Danny sounds like an AI generated voice 😂
Simply reading a script, without feeling like a natural conversational tone.
Sounds human to me. Too much inflection, and you can hear some modulation of voice and a hint of accent; Not flat and robotic sounding.
Disagree
@@alexcruzpr thats great !!
I agree. He knows his stuff but needs to work on his vocal delivery, too monotonal right now.
I’ve had this watch for about 6 months an and it’s seeing plenty of wrist time. I was watching it on some different websites and kind of scratching my head about the price given the specs and it popped up as a “like-new“ used example on that big giant website named after a rainforest. This was for under $400 which to me seemed like the right price point. The size is just right and it’s a classic design with just enough Explorer vibe, but with its own identity as well. I like to have a date complication and although others have complained about legibility of the date, I see that as a way of making it not conspicuous, but functional. On the negative side I don’t understand why they would use a polished bezel and it does scratch fairly easily. The Cape Cod polishing cloths seem to do a good job when there’s something noticeable, but I’ve only had to do that once. The bracelet is nice, although the clasp also is easily scratched. My watch picks up about 15 seconds a day which is not the greatest. I guess I’d say that if you can find one for a price you’re comfortable with and you like what you’re seeing here and in other places that show the watch you won’t regret picking one up.
Bought mine last week from your sight! 🙏🏼 love the watch
Thanks for this video. I have had my 159 stuck on a 155 bracelet for years now and love it. "Perfect.watch" - from a guy who owns 4 Grand seikos and a Rolex.
Good job! Danny.
Well presented. Thank you very much for sharing as a user.
👍👍👍
I am in total agreement. I think of it as more Japan's version of the Explorer. It's got the vibe, while not feeling at all like an homage, plus the line has a long history. I bought a used SPB159 (gray/grey) version used last year for US$400 on the Alpinist bracelet (purchased that way, per the receipt). I think the SPB155 may be the best of the 3 non-LE baby Alpinists, but I still love mine. I like it more than my Seiko SZSB006 TicTAC, and I even find myself wearing it more than the technically better built and slimmer Monta Triumph (which also has a great quick adjust clasp). There is just something about it that draws me in, and it's the perfect compact size on my 7-inch wrist.
Heck, I spent a fair bit of time with a new Explorer 40 at a meetup the other day and honestly lost a bit of love for it (always felt the 124270 is way too small on my 6'7" frame). It's all well executed, but doesn't have that je nais sais quoi of the baby Alpinist. I would say that is good news for my wallet, but I also love the Explorer II 226570 I own. That experience last week just solidified my choice of the two Explorers. I still wear my baby Alpinist weekly.
When I bought the spb155 last year I thought "this is a one watch collection, just buy a couple of straps and gone is my watch box". The watch box is still here but the baby alpinist truly has the value to be a one watch for life. Great review ✌🏻
Love my baby alpinist. Teddy sold me on it a couple years ago. Thanks man.
bought mine about two years ago and this is my favorite watch in my collection
Good job/review Danny! For me though, I have a Laurel Alpinist brown dial and I love everything about it except for the 19mm.
Great job Danny!
Got mine last month! Love it!
I handled this recently, absolutely in love with it
I love my Alpinist, but not the 6R35 inside that now runs +45 spd
At least it's not -45 😉 Assuming there's nothing wrong with it a watchmaker could regulate it for around 60 bucks as mentioned in the video. You shouldn't have to, I know, but it's a solution.
@@stephenmundane The problem is that they don't stay regulated, they are notoriously inconsistent. I've had five different 6Rs and all have been broadly the same, timekeeping is very sensitive to mainspring power remaining, temperature, and especially position. One of mine does +30 when dial up, -30 with 12 up, regulating can't fix that. My 4Rs are so much more consistent
Same problem here 🎉
Same for me...
I do my own regulation on my 4R36. I can get it to +5sec/day easily, but as stated before, it doesn’t last. A month later, I’m +15 secs- still fine for a $200 watch
I have this same piece. . .got it about three years ago. Great value packed proportion.
i wear mine very often and get compliments more than from more expensive watches. It's colors go well with lots of outfits too. great watch!
outfits!!
Amazing! Love the video. Love the Watch. Danny is great! Keep em comin!
The 6R35's accuracy problems are not "simply" corrected, as basic regulation does not reliably correct the shortcomings of this movement which result in its atrocious accuracy potential. I've seen some that regulate well to within -5/+6, across 5 positions, but others that vary so extremely that they are not possible to regulate to within the necessary delta of ±15. The reason is that Seiko still insists on using undersized balance wheels. When automation is used in watch assembly for mass production, the insistence on using such a small balance wheel relative to the movement size means that any miniscule poise error results in such poor accuracy delta.
I have a Baby Alpinist. I had to dynamically poise the balance to make it run in any fashion that could be considered accurate. This necessity makes me loath Seiko as a company in the modern era, because vintage Seiko movements were built to a considerably higher standard. Dynamic poising is also no easy or simple task for any watchmaker, and if one happens to be an end user and not an owner who is a watchmaker, the cost to make some of the 6R35 movements run they way a >$700 watch should when it is brand new is a highlight of the shortcomings of Seiko as a modern brand.
Interesting, any insights as to why the 4r doesn't suffer from the same issue despite having similar architecture? I've found 4r movements to be pretty uniform, but have had some disappointing 6r movements especially on high amplitude drops in some positions.
Yes!! Thanks Teddy and Danny! I’ve been championing this watch as an Explorer alternative for a while, and been asking for this video for nearly as long! ❤ *edit* I agree with Danny as well regarding the fact that if the SPB121 is too quirky, go for this one. I tried on a 121 and it just didn’t hit me. This 155 hit me right in the feels and is one of my absolute favourites in a rather large collection.
My SPB155 runs -5spd and it's maybe the most beautiful of my ~30 watches. Superb suggestion on trying it on a dark brown leather strap. Thanks Teddy and Danny.
I liked this format.
I was going to get myself this watch last year but bottled it at the last minute. I think I'm going to head to a seiko store today and try one on
This is such a cool watch. I wasn't aware of its existence. I like it much better than the one with the compass, which was the only one I've seen. This Baby Alpinist is on my list for the future.
This is on my list for later in the year. I tried it on and can’t stop thinking about it. 😂
I do own the brown version of this watch for some time now and it's a keeper. Great value for money
I bought this watch for myself as a birthday gift last year and like it very much. I have a couple of dozen Seiko 5 watches in the $200 to $300 dollar range, so this baby alpinist is my most expensive Seiko.
For me, the only real negative thing is the basically useless micro adjustment of the bracelet, with only two holes so close togethrr as to offer no real change. You either get a good fit with link removal or you don't, and I didn't. Its either too loose or too tight. So my watch sits on straps. This green dial really looks nice with a contrasting color strap, like reddish brown. One other odd thing, unlike my lower cost Seiko 5 models, this more expensive watch does not have drilled lugs, so care must be used to not scratch the finish when you jam the tool in to compress the spring bar if your straps don't have quick release features.
All in all, I have no regrets on the purchase of this watch.
I did not know about this one. Never really like the regular Alpinist but this one seems to hit all the marks! Tempting.
The SPB211 which I own have this amazing Japanese paper dial in a reddish brown that is simply classy. I swapped the strap out for a black leather one for work.
The things you Danny named as potential deal breakers were not for me neither. I did wish the sapphire crystal was double domed though. But some may argue that this gives it a nice vintage or retro feel.
I was gifted the grey face one. Absolutely love it.
i hit the buzzer beater when i bought the blue version a back in 2023, the year they stopped selling it. these no-compass alpinists are great
I prefer this model to the classic, I have never been able to bond with a compass bezel. Nice review.
Beautiful watch. Fantastic video as always, Teddy. Can you please feature an episode with the Seiko Presage SSA397 Zen Garden? It's another, fantastic presentation by Seiko, but I dont think too many people know about it.
Keep up the great work 👍
Love this for at Teddy. Great video!
I wish they made a specialised movement that can slim down this watch to either 11 mm or 12 mm at the least. It's a thick boy
Understandable, but numbers aren't telling the truth. I own the watch and the proportions are just right. The case shape and domed crystal let the watch appear slimmer or at least proportionally better than it actually is.
I couldn't agree more. The watch is quite nice and I like it, but the thickness ruins the elegant shape... Especially the caseback is way too thick. I'm still pondering to sell the watch, because it really bothers me.
I'm generally not a Seiko fan, but the baby Alpinist is one of the few that could get me on board.
same, i actively dislike most of seikos ranges - but just bought one of these, if it was no date would be perfect
@@russparkin6722 💯
I have owned this same watch for 4 years now. I think it's the best explorer alternative.
I have had a Seiko SARB017 for about 10 years now and I wear it a lot and it looks great, like new! I put it on a vintage cognac colored strap that has an orange tinge and it picks up those bits of orange on the dial and it looks great! .....The dial is gorgeous with the gold indices and numbers, very classy, almost too dressy for a field watch...GG
Great job Danny
I’ve been leaning toward the Hamilton Murphy, but I want the date. This is perfect.
All the Alpinist versions are some of Seiko's best all rounders. Relatively ignored compared to divers they are often available with killer discounts.
I own the blue version that comes on a blue leather strap. I’ve loved the simpler design offered on the baby alpinist versus the alpinist proper
i wear the alpinist 1959 reinterpretation version weekly. Damn near perfect watch. Dressy, sporty, over-engineered but elegant enough at the same time. Not sure about accuracy with the 6r35 (complaints are common with it) but it's an afterthought if you're only wearing a few days a week.
Danny, my man’s you have a compelling case here🙌 but baby open it we hear support big boy alpinist
I love this watch. Best green dial watch under $1000 for sure, and even best overall under $1000.
I own one, a great watch at this price point my only complaint is the accuracy, mine runs around -30 seconds per day. Any advice to fix it??
Where’s that brown jacket from though? Big fan
I have the green dial 1959 Laurel reinterpretation. One of my favorite watches. I like this baby Alpinist more than the dual crown Alpinist. I like the grey dial version on the baby alpinist I have seen, but I do not believe it is made anymore
I am the proud owner of the brown dial version (SPB211J1) and I have to say the baby alpinist can easily be your do-it-all piece, your one watch collection. It has this classic vintage look but at the same time looks refined, sporty and up to date.
The watch is perfectly proportioned, the height can be daunting at first, but you get used to it. You can dress it up and down easily, I usually wear mine on leather straps daily, but natos also look great on them when you want that sporty and field look and Uncle Seiko makes decent quality bracelets for this specific model with a beautiful taper.
It has outstanding lume, more than enough water resistance and almost 3 days of power reserve. Seriously, what else do you need? 😂
I have this watch, it checks a lot of boxes. I did replace the bracelet with a Haveston NATO strap.
This is the Alpinist I want. I loved the dial and hands of the original, but the internal compass bezel and extra crown don't get along with my brain. But this watch has everything I love about the Alpinist with none of the junk I didn't like.
You should make a video comparison of the Murph 38 vs this Baby Alpinist.
Beautiful watch
So I own this watch and it has been my primary daily wear for casual situations for more than four years - for dressy occasions, I wear a Rolex Datejust. This Seiko baby Alpinist has both good points and bad ones. The good points are the dial, the handset and the bracelet. Yes, believe it or not, I consider the bracelet to be a strong point. Seiko is known for poor bracelets and, in fact, I have a few of them. However, this one is the quietest and most comfortable of any of my Seikos. It is very smooth on the inside, so I forget that I am wearing it. The watch is very easy to read, and I do think that the guilt hands look beautiful against the fume green dial. The only poor aspect of this watch is the movement. The 6R35 is less accurate and has more positional variation than movements in other mid priced watches. It is more inconsistent than even the cheaper Seiko movements - based on my experience with four of these movements and many other Seiko movements. They tend to run slow, and they become slower over time. My baby Alpinist reached the point that it was losing 25 minutes per day, at which point I sent it in to Seiko. They serviced and regulated it. It was perfect when returned, but is now running slow by about 15 seconds per day, which is not terrible. It doesn’t like activity. For example, if I wear it biking, it will lose a couple of minutes per day. Not good for a field watch to run more slowly when the wearer is active. So I wear something else when I’m biking, going to the gym or some other exercise. Overall, for the price there is value here, depending upon your priorities. I think that I should just bite the bullet buy an Explorer, as I would appreciate a more accurate movement in a non-diver sports watch. But for now, this has been OK.
Agreed. I made a similar comment. Imo, it's overpriced. The movement is subpar, the case finishing is ok. I've seen better watches at that price point. I still wear it and enjoy it but I'm not going to lie to everyone saying it's all rainbows and unicorns.
I’m wearing mine now. My local AD offers discounts ranging from 25-35%. It is much more accurate than Seiko’s rating.
I just sold this on C24 last month for $540. Only reason was because I am saving for a grail. Otherwise I would have kept it, loved it on the black strap instead. I think it's good value.
keep Danny doing some more !!!
Ive had one for a couple years now. Still like it. But it does run really fast. Probably close to 40-50spd. And after about a year the power reserve is non existant. Stays running on my wrist. But dies overnight now. Needless to say I dont wear it a lot anymore. Its just too annoying having to set it every time i put it on
Get it serviced by Seiko. Might be under warranty still, if not, it might even be cheap to get serviced still. Reach out for estimates. Or maybe a local guy could regulate it for you
The alpinist line is one of the best from seiko.
I think the 1959 version is the one to go for, I have the grey and the beige one. Had horrible luck with the 6R though, none of mine have been consistently accurate
Teddy, when are you gonna talk about the Seiko Presage’s with the porcelain dials??? SPB171, SPB445, SPB397J1
My blue version (spb157) is a screw down crown, not push pull. I don’t see why the green version would be different.
Would like to see the watch being reviewed in natural light. Dramatic lighting makes the watch look good.
Damn, not sounding like you're reading from a script is not easy. Something to work on in the future. 💪
I really wanted the blue face one. But they ended production of it
Looks good but for just a little bit more I could grab the Hamilton Murph or other Field options. Seiko is supposed to be a budget brand I don’t know if I’d look to jump on this for $700+
Or you could get a Hanhart Preventor HD12, it’s very similar in looks to the Murph but superior in most areas for pretty much the same price
The best looking watch made by Seiko
What an alpinist should be with modern technology is a Citizen Promaster Land at6080-53L. My favourite watch, way cheaper and less baroque (and much tougher)
Every time I consider a genuine explorer I open my watch case and see my baby alpinist in green and gold and I’m generally satisfied. I don’t think I’ll ever sell it.
Still want another watch Alpinist and murph are on the list.
love this watch
How come some photos make it look bronze? Don’t think there’s a specific bronze model?
Thanks for the review!
I own and really like this watch. However:
1. The case is at least 1-2 mm too thick. That's a pity because the shape of the case itself is very elegant. Just the caseback is way too thick (and the glass is useless).
2. The crown is unsigned. That makes the watch look cheap and is a no-go at this pricepoint in my opinion.
3. The lack of microadjustment options on the bracelet (there are only 2) is really an issue. It's either hit or miss.
In total, I think there are more pros and these cons don't ruin the watch. But these cons are still significant in my opinion.
Maybe a dumb question but what makes cathedral hands “toolish”? They’re iconic and unique don’t get me wrong but it almost feels dressy, and almost out of place in a kind of charming way
I actually just bought this watch a couple of weeks ago. Overall it looks great, but I was unlucky enough to get one that was gaining 25 seconds a day. Terrible considering how much it costs, and I've had better accuracy from much cheaper autos. I ended up regulating it myself. It gained 1 second over yesterday. Let's see if that luck holds out .
Overall I prefer the Hamilton Khaki auto I already owned which is similarly priced. More comfortable, much more accurate (+2s a day for me without having needed to regulate it) , thinner and lighter. The dial isn't as beautiful though.
No cyclops on an alpinist-like watch? Color me interested!
I will never understand how the Alpinist or the Baby Alpinist are more popular than the Laurel Alpinist lines. The Ginza or Bamboo Grove dials are to die for, and unlike these they have screw down crowns and MUCH better bracelets.
It is too bad the Ginza Alpinist is not a regular production model, because that would be a huge hit. Just look at the price they sell for, despite being made in a good sized quantity for an LE (3,500). They sell for way more than my SPB089, which only had 1,959 made. The bamboo dials are interesting, but not a "wow" to me. I am not knocking them, but they're just a different look.
I think the main issue is people love the SARB case. While the new Laurel Alpinist has a cool case in its own right, it's not as sleek. I think the 19mm lug width also does not help for people that want to put straps on it. There are a lot more 19mm straps than there used to be, buy nearly every one has 20mm straps laying around. It is just one more reason to pause on purchasing. The baby Alpinist also does have a screw down crown, and I can confirm since I am an owner of one. I am not sure why it was stated otherwise. The bracelet is very cool on the Laurel Alpinists. The clasp looks to be pretty much the same though, and construction is good on the baby Alpinist bracelet. I think it's just a looks thing more than a build quality thing, but it has been a while since I've had a Laurel on wrist.
I will also add that I wish Seiko would produce some more variants of the Laurel and baby Alpinist. Both deserve more attention.
@ Yes i wont understand why with the huge hit the Ginza and the Mystic Forest were, Seiko didnt just make more, or on another colorway
Screw down crown*
Danny's voice + the video's visuals feels like HICONSUMPTION