After watching this video i pulled the trigger and picked one of these up. I love the watch... it's one that you need to see in person because videos and pictures don't really do it justice IMO....thanks for this video!
Hi J! Very handsome watch. I want to comment on your cautionary statement about swimming with watches with push/pull crowns. If a watch has a stated depth rating at or above 30 meters, I will immediately take a swim with it during the first week of procuring the watch while the warranty is active. I've been doing this for about 10 years and have yet to have one flood with water. As a result, I am free to jump into any body of water (not jacuzzis; hot water is another matter altogether)with all my watches. Before jumping in water, I reflexively push down on the crown firmly to make sure the watch is water tight. The only possible way the watch can fail is if the crown is pulled out which requires intentional, deliberate action. I have never accidentally pulled out a crown underwater. I swim laps daily and use seiko chronographs with non-screw down pushers to time my swim. I always start and stop these watches underwater (gasp!). Again, I have not had one failure in 10 years of this practice. Seiko's own guidelines state that any seiko product with a 50m or above depth rating is safe for swimming nor do any of the instruction manuals for my chronographs caution against activating pushers under water. The only thing I won't do with push/pull crowns is scuba dive or take hot showers or go into a hot spring, jacuzzi or sauna. Actually, I wouldn't take any watch, even ones with screw down crowns, into a hot, wet environment. I love swimming; I love surfing; I love watches; and one of my greatest pleasures is to wear watches when i do both. I think a lot of people are missing out when they don't trust their watches. Seiko, in particular, is a very conservative company and would never overstate the parameters of their products. The only watch that we have in common is the sarb035 and i have been swimming with it for over a year. I think everyone should enjoy their watches to the fullest extent. It would be akin to never redlining your 'vette. Ok, rant over.
Hi sunset. I wouldn't use any watch in a hot tub or jacuzzi because you're dealing with vapors/steam/gases at that point. I think they can more easily infiltrate a case although, in theory, they should not be able to. I've had watches form condensation when i go from a cold outdoor environment into a hot, steamy environment like an indoor heated pool. The condensation always goes away after an hour or so. I've never tried wearing a watch in a jacuzzi, hotspring or sauna but I imagine that you may get condensation at the very least.
the vapor/steam/gases are not the problem in a warm environment, i think its more of a metal dilatation issue. a warm molecule is bigger then a cold one ( of the same stuff of course )
This is a cool, affordable alternative to the Rolex Explorer. I continue to amass Seiko Presage and Orient watches, and I cannot help but to wonder if I would not be better off buying fewer, more expensive watches.
Hi J.Anthony, could not agree more about these JDM offerings from Seiko. I purchased the Sarb033 some years back for my work watch for fear of anymore desk surfing accidents to my date just and realized The Seiko was a better time piece. I then acquired a JDM Seiko Sarx013 and that is the happy medium for me.
I like the intro music and also the black and white non sequitur skits are always welcome. I was curious about the SARG009 and so your review was very useful. At this rate you may wind up reviewing next what I am also interested in buying. I also like that the review is in colour but the intro is in black and white. Good job. Nearly 8,000 subscribers then 10,000 next.
i had the same sentiments. I had the chance to buy a new Ex I for $5800 cash, as a guy returned it after one week. New Rolex 5 year warranty provided by dealer after having the factory re-issue it. I went with the Seiko.
Love your vid's...I was a huge Seiko lover for years...got into the Rolex, Omega collecting...got my first Tudor at Christmas from my wife...the Heritage Ranger...love it. But my first love are Seiko and I love the 009 and the 013...keep the great videos coming...thanks again...R. L.
Hi J. Anthony, great review! I have this watch for about a half year now and I really like the versatility and overall quality of the watch. One small detail you mentioned in the video; the second hand is painted white and doesn’t have any lume on it. The lume on the numerals and hour and minute hand is really bright. The bracelet is one of Seiko’s better made bracelets but I’ve put a brown Fluco Shell Cordovan on it, I think it looks even more amazing this way. I’m really satisfied with the watch and I can recommend it to everybody!
Thanks for the review validating my purchase :) I have this and the Seiko SUN025 making a Rolex Explorer homage combo. One thing that does't come across in the photos is there is a very slight sunburst to the face in almost a chocolate brown. It's very subtle.
Good to know about the pins. I resized mine, and assumed it would stay in place, now the pins are falling out in two places on my SARY055. Wish I knew that before I resized, good info. Sadly the one buyer on ebay may face this issue if he chooses to extend the bracelet
J. Anthony, I love your honesty in your reviews. It is good that you clearly admit your bias toward Seiko (one that we share). I loved the B&W on this video and the new music (and the thunder clap). One of my only demurs on Seiko is that how the bands are slightly discolored from the case. Unless they have changed their manufacturing processes, as the watch ages, the color disparity grows. I have a Seiko from 1975 and replaced the bracelet because of it. I still have the original bracelet in the watch's box. I'm balancing the fence on whether or not to polish it.
Thank you as always. I haven't noticed the color mismatch before. I'll keep an eye out for it as you know something I don't. I learn new things everyday. =)
Great video JA, I'm going to Japan next weekend, I'm going to have a pleasant time watch browsing, and no doubt buying. Thanks for your time and effort JA, really appreciate your work.
Thanks for the review here of the SARG. It's not my type of dial, but I grant that it's well done. Like you I particularly like the lume and the amount of it on the seconds hand. I'd have liked to here the price of this one, but I guess anyone can look that up for themselves. Looking forward to what you offer next. Al, the best for now.
Thanks again for the SARG001 review, absolutely love mine, and the when I checked the 6R15 power reserve it ran 57.5 hours! Super convenient to wind it on the wrist and best of all, chicks dig it.
@WatchCollectors.co.uk Enjoyed yours and James chat on the watch market! I'd like to do another live session with James this weekend, you of course would be a welcome addition if you are free.
I enjoy your channel as well. I started watching you when I first discovered Paul Thorpe. I thought I had already subscribed to you. Only today did I realize I hadn't yet so I took care of that. I'd be great if you could join James and I on a live session.
Nice review as always. I picked up the SARG011 with the red tipped second hand. I am still waiting for it! Going to put some great leather on it or maybe buy a steel bracelet from Seiya...
That Seiko really floats my boat I have to say, though at the moment I'm strongly considering a "cocktail time" as a smart/casual option. I'd like to give a mention here for someone looking for a versatile daily wearer to the Breitling Colt, mines an automatic about 15 years old so has the nicer (compared to the latest) bezel - in my opinion..and 500ft water resist (as compared to the newer ones 200ft..what's that about?) it's one of those watches that looks a whole lot nicer in real life than in pictures, chunky and "tool like" but not big enough to be ostentatious, top quality bracelet and built like a tank..mine has taken some real hard knocks and scrapes but looks good as new. Looks classy with a blue face and bars instead of Arabics. The Superquartz option also looks interesting. Well priced and criminally underrated in my opinion.
I have a Seiko Brightz sdgm003 that I absolutely love. The bracelet is fantastic but I do hate the pins and collars. I was very surprised Seiko used that on such a great bracelet.
Seiko uses pins and collars on 2000 dollar watches doesnt surprise me lol. Seiko bracelets are one of their downfalls but i guess there has to be a compromise somewhere for the price point. Grand Seiko at least uses screws but i actually think some use pins also.
I would be ok with pins on my bracelet. But pins and collars is a pain. Good thing I only had to size it once. The Brightz bracelet is fantastic. No downfall there. I think they cut corners on the bracelets in the lower tiered Seikos which is fine as long as they put the money into the actual watch.
I dont mind pin and collar its better than friction cotter pin thingies they use on the cheap stuff but what i really hate is the collar style like the turtle where the collar goes on the outside of bracelet and you have to use 2 pin tools to get it in. The style where the the collar goes in to the link on the inside of bracelet is just fine and you wont lose them as soon as you take the pin out.
Many thanks for the video. Yet to own one of these JDM seikos, but heard a lot about them from different channels. Have been planning a Hamilton purchase for xmas, but may need to re-think. Love the classic/no fuss design of the Seiko; managed to find some to buy through eBay.
Hey T! what do you think of seiko presage a new model just came out spb035? check it out. I was looking for seiko presage sarx027 but couldn't find it in europe, the dial on that was much better and nice black crocodile leather.
If this watch had drilled lugs and a screw down crown , it would be hard to argue that this watch isn't as good as the Explorer . I have this watch and I'm constantly amazed by the quality .
3:52 SKX series and Seiko 5s at least the most affordable ones, have plastic movement holders, "inferior" sounds a little aggressive hehe. Nice review!
Great review. I was surprised by the look of the SARB035. Do you have any thoughts on Orient Star Classic vs the SARB035? I am looking for my first mechanical / automatic. It would have to be work appropriate (dress-ish).
Enjoyed many of your jdm reviews good information well relayed I have just ordered a sarx013 from seiyajapan was wondering if you had an opinion as it's a little Mort expensive than most jdm reviewed on utube is it new rare or unloved keep up good work much appreciated
Kind of nice, I only wish the numbers weren't quite as loud, but at least the didn't subdivide the minute markers like they do that just destroys the look on the other SARB's and 6R15's dials. I have no less than about seven different bracelet tools for working with pins alone.
J. Anthony, since you talked about micro--adjustment: any hint about the "ideal (if there's such...) compromise" to wear a metallic bracelet, in terms of gap between its length and one's wrist perimeter, suitable for all year (summer and winter) ? My "mid size" Omega Seamaster 300M (bond type, similar to your 41 mm SM) hasn't got any adjustment, same as my Speedy day date, and I just keep on adding and remove one small link between Summer and Winter. This is really a "first world issue", but it's kind of a pain....Thank you very much !
Hey Nuno, everyone has there own preferences. I try to size my bracelets so that I can just barely get my little finger between the bracelet and my wrist. That seems for work for me. As for fine adjustments, I like at least 3 or 4.
Nice review. I have the same wrist size as you (7.5) so I appreciated the wrist shot. I'm confused, though. It's only about .5mm thinner than an SKX009, but this SARG looks noticeably thinner on the wrist. I had to return my SKX because it just looked too much like a hockey puck, but I would really like to get this one.
i think your friend should consider the from the moon to mars speedmaster, i love the planets as subdials but it seems like the classic all black faced speedmasters are still the most popular. also the casino royale limited edition 007 seamaster is worth checking out, but then you have to deal with the used market most likely. i have seen a couple online that looked like they may have been replicas but i am not an expert and i generally have been too paranoid to buy preowned online which is dumb because there are good deals out there. you are definately making me reconsider seiko, i did not know that the jdm models were better quality
I think that this is a little larger than the Alpinist, which is technically also a SARB. For people who don't like the clasp, an aftermarket clasp can be found at Strapcode. The same can be said for a bracelet. I must say that between this and the Alpinist, Seiko provides some great affordable alternatives to the Explorer.
protip: wearing watches in the shower is a super bad idea, even on dive watches it can ruin gaskets (seals) due to expansion and contraction of the metal! its the biggest cause of water damage i see at my shop
I wish grand seiko had all parts in the movement made in japan vs assembly in japan. Makes grand seiko a lot more worth looking into for quality. I order the sarb065 and love it hopefully it doesn't break because of some china made parts in there.
This watch is super good looking and looks pretty high quality too. But I can get a comparable Hamilton for less money than this, which automatically rules it out for me. This is the same argument I have for all of the worthwhile Seikos I've looked at. I don't understand why people keep saying that Seiko is the best value at the lower end if all of their "great value" watches are more expensive than the Swiss alternatives (which still retain noticeably better quality control than Seiko).
Man I was eyeing one of these for a long time. Recently decided I deserve another watch and started to look at this again. Discontinued. WHAT! $ 800 on ebay WHAAAAT!
Great review, And that SARG looks like a great daily wearer. I would have liked the dial to be a tad brighter, have the blue pop more. Case quality looks fantastic. P.S. It might be time for you to dive into the deep end of Seiko (and your pockets) and buy a Hi-beat Grand to sit alongside your Rolexes.
Just ordered it, looks sweet, can't wait to get it! Thank you for the review, this is my first "real" non-quartz-shit watch, but plan on joining the watch collecting community down the line, next watch in line is probably a Omega Seamaster.
It's an expensive investment but if you own a lot of watches, a Bergeon 8745 will solve your bracelet pin problems. Actually, it's not expensive in comparison if you own any Swiss watch.
It's interesting you reviewed this watch. I bought it after lusting after it. Then the different size Arabic numbers on the dial started to bug me. Then I hated them. Then I sold it. Haha. I don't know what is wrong with me. --Michael
I bought the Sarg011. Love the red second and and maybe will get the bracelet from Seiya japan. I would disagree with it feeling like a rolex though. It's nice, and super light with a leather band but it's not Explorer 1 .... Tapping on the watch give a rattle sound from the rotor. I think it's priced right... but not a rolex... IMO (sorry)
I own a Seiko SARG009, the watch looks beautiful, but the 6r15 movement loses about a minute per day. We know, Seiko knows, that an automatic is not going to keep time as well as quartz but this is unacceptable. I hope your luck with this watch will be better than mine.
I second Michael's (Tough Solar) observation. The dissimilar arabic numerals spoil the dial for me. I understand the JDM quality however the prime interface is with the dial. Not for me. Still; enjoyed your review and wish you a Merry Christmas and a safe, successful New Year ... we're not so politically correct in Australia!
Thanks Brian, we're not so politically correct in the US either. We are the crazy colonial's who break the rules and lack discipline. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you as well my friend.
You did indeed, with three cameras, three computers and four monitors plus lighting and a mic hopefully I have what I need now. TH-cam is expensive....
Another beautiful Seiko here. I would love to know Seiko's reasoning on not using a screw down crown on so many, if not all of these SARG and SARB watches around this $200-500 range. For a company that pays so much attention to the finishes of their cases you'd think they would have thought to throw in a screw down crown at some point! For a sports watch recommendation I'd say you can't go wrong with the Speedmaster. Slightly biased since just buying one about a month ago, but even if he were to not want to moon watch, there are so many variations of the watch he can find one he loves. Another one he might like would be the Tudor Pelagos. If he is considering a no date sub because he doesn't like the cyclops, the Pelagos gives a date without the cyclops and at a cheaper price than the Submariner and maintains a similar look and style.
Off course you cannot possibly own everything that you review! That would create at least one problem: when you get up in the morning, what will you wear? And possibly it will cost you a lot of money. I have several watches, but I usually pick up my Kommandirskie hand wound one.
I like my Kommandirskie as well. Yeah, I never know which watch to wear...I have too many. I end up wearing a few during the day as I feel guilty ignoring them.
Haha, indeed, There is a fine line between being a hoarder and a "collector." Some days I worry if I am becoming more of a hoarder haha. I still have boxes of model cars, ships, trains and planes sitting in storage that I need to figure out what to do with. They were my hobby before watches.
Nice watch but I can't help but think that this watch feels cheapish. Hollow links and rattly cheap bracelet with hollow end links and a watch that is typically slow which makes the hacking somewhat obsolete. I'll save my money and get a Rolex one day instead
After watching this video i pulled the trigger and picked one of these up. I love the watch... it's one that you need to see in person because videos and pictures don't really do it justice IMO....thanks for this video!
was glad to see the Sarg009 get some love as it's very similar to my Sarg011 on the way. I can't wait for my 11 to get in, very excited!
Hi J! Very handsome watch.
I want to comment on your cautionary statement about swimming with watches with push/pull crowns. If a watch has a stated depth rating at or above 30 meters, I will immediately take a swim with it during the first week of procuring the watch while the warranty is active. I've been doing this for about 10 years and have yet to have one flood with water. As a result, I am free to jump into any body of water (not jacuzzis; hot water is another matter altogether)with all my watches. Before jumping in water, I reflexively push down on the crown firmly to make sure the watch is water tight. The only possible way the watch can fail is if the crown is pulled out which requires intentional, deliberate action. I have never accidentally pulled out a crown underwater. I swim laps daily and use seiko chronographs with non-screw down pushers to time my swim. I always start and stop these watches underwater (gasp!). Again, I have not had one failure in 10 years of this practice.
Seiko's own guidelines state that any seiko product with a 50m or above depth rating is safe for swimming nor do any of the instruction manuals for my chronographs caution against activating pushers under water. The only thing I won't do with push/pull crowns is scuba dive or take hot showers or go into a hot spring, jacuzzi or sauna. Actually, I wouldn't take any watch, even ones with screw down crowns, into a hot, wet environment.
I love swimming; I love surfing; I love watches; and one of my greatest pleasures is to wear watches when i do both. I think a lot of people are missing out when they don't trust their watches. Seiko, in particular, is a very conservative company and would never overstate the parameters of their products. The only watch that we have in common is the sarb035 and i have been swimming with it for over a year. I think everyone should enjoy their watches to the fullest extent. It would be akin to never redlining your 'vette. Ok, rant over.
You are welcome Zahir.
Would you ill recommend wearing a 10 atm watch in a jacuzzi or hot tub?
Hi sunset. I wouldn't use any watch in a hot tub or jacuzzi because you're dealing with vapors/steam/gases at that point. I think they can more easily infiltrate a case although, in theory, they should not be able to. I've had watches form condensation when i go from a cold outdoor environment into a hot, steamy environment like an indoor heated pool. The condensation always goes away after an hour or so. I've never tried wearing a watch in a jacuzzi, hotspring or sauna but I imagine that you may get condensation at the very least.
Thanks Neil, good feedback as always!
the vapor/steam/gases are not the problem in a warm environment, i think its more of a metal dilatation issue. a warm molecule is bigger then a cold one ( of the same stuff of course )
This is a cool, affordable alternative to the Rolex Explorer. I continue to amass Seiko Presage and Orient watches, and I cannot help but to wonder if I would not be better off buying fewer, more expensive watches.
Hi J.Anthony, could not agree more about these JDM offerings from Seiko. I purchased the Sarb033 some years back for my work watch for fear of anymore desk surfing accidents to my date just and realized The Seiko was a better time piece. I then acquired a JDM Seiko Sarx013 and that is the happy medium for me.
finster444k
finster444k
Prices are skyrocketing on these. 3 on the Bay north of $800. I just picked one up for $525, A+ condition on WUS. Great review!
I like the intro music and also the black and white non sequitur skits are always welcome. I was curious about the SARG009 and so your review was very useful. At this rate you may wind up reviewing next what I am also interested in buying. I also like that the review is in colour but the intro is in black and white. Good job. Nearly 8,000 subscribers then 10,000 next.
haha, always happy to cater to your curiosity!
I was about to pull the trigger on a 2016 Rolex Explorer but couldn't bring myself to spend the money... this watch might be the perfect solution!
i had the same sentiments. I had the chance to buy a new Ex I for $5800 cash, as a guy returned it after one week. New Rolex 5 year warranty provided by dealer after having the factory re-issue it. I went with the Seiko.
Love your vid's...I was a huge Seiko lover for years...got into the Rolex, Omega collecting...got my first Tudor at Christmas from my wife...the Heritage Ranger...love it. But my first love are Seiko and I love the 009 and the 013...keep the great videos coming...thanks again...R. L.
Great review, J. Anthony, once more. Love the looks of that dial, also. The dial is somehow similar to Exp 1, but with its own "character".
Hi J. Anthony, great review! I have this watch for about a half year now and I really like the versatility and overall quality of the watch. One small detail you mentioned in the video; the second hand is painted white and doesn’t have any lume on it. The lume on the numerals and hour and minute hand is really bright. The bracelet is one of Seiko’s better made bracelets but I’ve put a brown Fluco Shell Cordovan on it, I think it looks even more amazing this way. I’m really satisfied with the watch and I can recommend it to everybody!
Thank you Jarno, I really appreciate the insight and feedback!
Thanks for the review validating my purchase :) I have this and the Seiko SUN025 making a Rolex Explorer homage combo.
One thing that does't come across in the photos is there is a very slight sunburst to the face in almost a chocolate brown. It's very subtle.
Always happy to validate a Seiko purchase =)
Trying to find one of these now...can’t really unless I want to pay well over $1k cad
This is on my wrist somewhere in 2017! Such a daily beauty. Utterly attractive straight to the point, well designed watch.
Good to know about the pins. I resized mine, and assumed it would stay in place, now the pins are falling out in two places on my SARY055. Wish I knew that before I resized, good info. Sadly the one buyer on ebay may face this issue if he chooses to extend the bracelet
Yeah...I learned it the hard way as well =). My Monster has some tape wrapped around the pins to make them wider and hold them in place....
Awesome review of a great watch, nicely presented and photographed. Thank you!
J. Anthony, I love your honesty in your reviews. It is good that you clearly admit your bias toward Seiko (one that we share). I loved the B&W on this video and the new music (and the thunder clap). One of my only demurs on Seiko is that how the bands are slightly discolored from the case. Unless they have changed their manufacturing processes, as the watch ages, the color disparity grows. I have a Seiko from 1975 and replaced the bracelet because of it. I still have the original bracelet in the watch's box. I'm balancing the fence on whether or not to polish it.
Thank you as always. I haven't noticed the color mismatch before. I'll keep an eye out for it as you know something I don't. I learn new things everyday. =)
LOVE!!! Seiko jdms.... man after my own heart. great review. honestly my Seiko's kill Swiss watches.
Great video JA, I'm going to Japan next weekend, I'm going to have a pleasant time watch browsing, and no doubt buying.
Thanks for your time and effort JA, really appreciate your work.
I'm super jealous of your Japan trip!!
" ...
like a rugged companion...."
a thought provoking description
great content as always
Thanks Finn!
Thanks for the review here of the SARG. It's not my type of dial, but I grant that it's well done. Like you I particularly like the lume and the amount of it on the seconds hand. I'd have liked to here the price of this one, but I guess anyone can look that up for themselves. Looking forward to what you offer next. Al, the best for now.
Thanks Mark. These are in the $300-$400 range.
Thanks again for the SARG001 review, absolutely love mine, and the when I checked the 6R15 power reserve it ran 57.5 hours! Super convenient to wind it on the wrist and best of all, chicks dig it.
Wow...57 hours is awesome!
I went through a period wanting that aatch so bad!!! I thought I escaped it and now you've bought my love back lol!!!
You want this watch!!!! ....as do I =). I think we were talking about it the first time we chatted.
J. ANTHONY I think we did! And how I like it because it reminds me of the Air King :D
Indeed, I certainly see Air King DNA in this.
@WatchCollectors.co.uk Enjoyed yours and James chat on the watch market! I'd like to do another live session with James this weekend, you of course would be a welcome addition if you are free.
I enjoy your channel as well. I started watching you when I first discovered Paul Thorpe. I thought I had already subscribed to you. Only today did I realize I hadn't yet so I took care of that. I'd be great if you could join James and I on a live session.
Awesome review. keep these JDM watches coming!
Changing the date at almost 9, nice.
6R15 changes date between 10pm and midnight so he's done nothing wrong.
Nice review as always. I picked up the SARG011 with the red tipped second hand. I am still waiting for it! Going to put some great leather on it or maybe buy a steel bracelet from Seiya...
Great video! Unfortunately this particular model has vanished from Amazon :(
That Seiko really floats my boat I have to say, though at the moment I'm strongly considering a "cocktail time" as a smart/casual option.
I'd like to give a mention here for someone looking for a versatile daily wearer to the Breitling Colt, mines an automatic about 15 years old so has the nicer (compared to the latest) bezel - in my opinion..and 500ft water resist (as compared to the newer ones 200ft..what's that about?) it's one of those watches that looks a whole lot nicer in real life than in pictures, chunky and "tool like" but not big enough to be ostentatious, top quality bracelet and built like a tank..mine has taken some real hard knocks and scrapes but looks good as new. Looks classy with a blue face and bars instead of Arabics. The Superquartz option also looks interesting. Well priced and criminally underrated in my opinion.
I owned a White Colt Automatic that I loved and never should have sold...
Wondering if you can get your hands on a Seiko Mt. Fuji Heritage Limited Edition and do a review on it? Particularly the SNZG15J1.
Great review my friend!
Thank you Stephan!
Love this! Add another to my wish list.
Wow, nice watch, and great review. Any idea why the SRP's with the 4R36 which hacks and winds, are so ignored?
I have a Seiko Brightz sdgm003 that I absolutely love. The bracelet is fantastic but I do hate the pins and collars. I was very surprised Seiko used that on such a great bracelet.
Seiko uses pins and collars on 2000 dollar watches doesnt surprise me lol. Seiko bracelets are one of their downfalls but i guess there has to be a compromise somewhere for the price point. Grand Seiko at least uses screws but i actually think some use pins also.
I would be ok with pins on my bracelet. But pins and collars is a pain. Good thing I only had to size it once.
The Brightz bracelet is fantastic. No downfall there. I think they cut corners on the bracelets in the lower tiered Seikos which is fine as long as they put the money into the actual watch.
I dont mind pin and collar its better than friction cotter pin thingies they use on the cheap stuff but what i really hate is the collar style like the turtle where the collar goes on the outside of bracelet and you have to use 2 pin tools to get it in. The style where the the collar goes in to the link on the inside of bracelet is just fine and you wont lose them as soon as you take the pin out.
Many thanks for the video. Yet to own one of these JDM seikos, but heard a lot about them from different channels. Have been planning a Hamilton purchase for xmas, but may need to re-think. Love the classic/no fuss design of the Seiko; managed to find some to buy through eBay.
As a JDM Seiko owner and Hamilton owner both are great. I prefer Seiko but they are pretty evenly matched.
Great review, great watch!
Great Review! Can't go wrong with a Seiko
As always brother. Great vid.mad respect to you.
Why are the dials on Japanese domestic watches in English?
Great review. I absolutely love my SARG001 !!!
Hey T! what do you think of seiko presage a new model just came out spb035? check it out. I was looking for seiko presage sarx027 but couldn't find it in europe, the dial on that was much better and nice black crocodile leather.
Welp. Here I am, having a gentleman crisis.
You have a channel of your own, BRO! HAHAHA
If this watch had drilled lugs and a screw down crown , it would be hard to argue that this watch isn't as good as the Explorer . I have this watch and I'm constantly amazed by the quality .
Enjoyed the Review. Really Nice Looking Watch. Cheers!
3:52 SKX series and Seiko 5s at least the most affordable ones, have plastic movement holders, "inferior" sounds a little aggressive hehe. Nice review!
Hi, what is the strap in your sarb035 ? Thanks
Great review. I was surprised by the look of the SARB035. Do you have any thoughts on Orient Star Classic vs the SARB035? I am looking for my first mechanical / automatic. It would have to be work appropriate (dress-ish).
Enjoyed many of your jdm reviews good information well relayed I have just ordered a sarx013 from seiyajapan was wondering if you had an opinion as it's a little Mort expensive than most jdm reviewed on utube is it new rare or unloved keep up good work much appreciated
i have 033 and its a perfect size. is the sarg significantly bigger?
Hi,
where is the best place to shop for the JDM Automatics?
Kind of nice, I only wish the numbers weren't quite as loud, but at least the didn't subdivide the minute markers like they do that just destroys the look on the other SARB's and 6R15's dials. I have no less than about seven different bracelet tools for working with pins alone.
Tomasina Covell the minute markers actually are subdivided, just it's in a dark grey that's only noticeable under bright light.
Andy Farrell
OMG! Now I've got a headache... :(
I can understand that. With seven different bracelet tools you are no doubt better at sizing bracelets than me!
J. ANTHONY It's actually nine and I don't totally understand the best one. But I do COA at an intermediate level now.
That is impressive, I would not be comfortable trying to clean / oil my watches at this point. I adjust them and size the bracelets...that's about it.
J. Anthony, since you talked about micro--adjustment: any hint about the "ideal (if there's such...) compromise" to wear a metallic bracelet, in terms of gap between its length and one's wrist perimeter, suitable for all year (summer and winter) ? My "mid size" Omega Seamaster 300M (bond type, similar to your 41 mm SM) hasn't got any adjustment, same as my Speedy day date, and I just keep on adding and remove one small link between Summer and Winter. This is really a "first world issue", but it's kind of a pain....Thank you very much !
Hey Nuno, everyone has there own preferences. I try to size my bracelets so that I can just barely get my little finger between the bracelet and my wrist. That seems for work for me. As for fine adjustments, I like at least 3 or 4.
J. ANTHONY Thank you ! 😊👍
Do you know if the watch has any gold components in the movement?
Does this model use the same bracelet from the sarb033? So I can replace it with a strapcode bracelet.
I have a SARG009 bracelet. On my SARB017 Alpinist... Best of both worlds
how can you make sure it's a "japan domestic market" seiko? does it say on the box or something?
I know it's not your watch but do you have any idea what wrist size this watch will fit with all its links? Thanks again for a great video
If your wrist is 7inches or less you should be good.
+J. ANTHONY aww to bad. That's my only gripe with all these watches. I need to look into ordering additional links.
Nice review. I have the same wrist size as you (7.5) so I appreciated the wrist shot. I'm confused, though. It's only about .5mm thinner than an SKX009, but this SARG looks noticeably thinner on the wrist. I had to return my SKX because it just looked too much like a hockey puck, but I would really like to get this one.
i think your friend should consider the from the moon to mars speedmaster, i love the planets as subdials but it seems like the classic all black faced speedmasters are still the most popular. also the casino royale limited edition 007 seamaster is worth checking out, but then you have to deal with the used market most likely. i have seen a couple online that looked like they may have been replicas but i am not an expert and i generally have been too paranoid to buy preowned online which is dumb because there are good deals out there. you are definately making me reconsider seiko, i did not know that the jdm models were better quality
Beautiful watch. Sadly they just discontinued this model.
I think that this is a little larger than the Alpinist, which is technically also a SARB. For people who don't like the clasp, an aftermarket clasp can be found at Strapcode. The same can be said for a bracelet. I must say that between this and the Alpinist, Seiko provides some great affordable alternatives to the Explorer.
A bit big for my taste, but an awesome field watch. If they offered this in 38 or less I'd be all about it as a daily wear in the field.
protip: wearing watches in the shower is a super bad idea, even on dive watches it can ruin gaskets (seals) due to expansion and contraction of the metal! its the biggest cause of water damage i see at my shop
stunning seiko
Haaahaaaa the beginning 😂 love it. Looovee seiko
HOw can you have a classic from a startup?
I was watching for this, thanks
I love my JDM Seiko, Top class Cheers
Sure wish I'd have picked one of these up before they got to be a thousand bucks. My favorite of the SARG/SARB lineups.
I wish grand seiko had all parts in the movement made in japan vs assembly in japan. Makes grand seiko a lot more worth looking into for quality. I order the sarb065 and love it hopefully it doesn't break because of some china made parts in there.
Great looking watch , really like the JDM Seiko they just seem better built than the other Seikos
Yeah, there is certainly a noticeable difference in quality.
BLOODY INSANE WATCH ! MINE IS 10 YEARS OLDER RUNS STRONG WILL NOT DIE....
Nice watch. Check out the Seiko sarx line. Very nice.
That's a very pretty face :) Hey I featured you in my favorite youtubers video too!
Thanks Dan, that was very kind of you. I feel like I watch all of your videos yet I somehow missed that.
This watch is super good looking and looks pretty high quality too. But I can get a comparable Hamilton for less money than this, which automatically rules it out for me. This is the same argument I have for all of the worthwhile Seikos I've looked at. I don't understand why people keep saying that Seiko is the best value at the lower end if all of their "great value" watches are more expensive than the Swiss alternatives (which still retain noticeably better quality control than Seiko).
Man I was eyeing one of these for a long time. Recently decided I deserve another watch and started to look at this again. Discontinued. WHAT! $ 800 on ebay WHAAAAT!
Great review, And that SARG looks like a great daily wearer. I would have liked the dial to be a tad brighter, have the blue pop more. Case quality looks fantastic.
P.S. It might be time for you to dive into the deep end of Seiko (and your pockets) and buy a Hi-beat Grand to sit alongside your Rolexes.
A Hi-Beat is still on my radar =). Thank you Neuro!
Just ordered it, looks sweet, can't wait to get it! Thank you for the review, this is my first "real" non-quartz-shit watch, but plan on joining the watch collecting community down the line, next watch in line is probably a Omega Seamaster.
It's an expensive investment but if you own a lot of watches, a Bergeon 8745 will solve your bracelet pin problems. Actually, it's not expensive in comparison if you own any Swiss watch.
It looks neat n sharp
It's interesting you reviewed this watch. I bought it after lusting after it. Then the different size Arabic numbers on the dial started to bug me. Then I hated them. Then I sold it. Haha. I don't know what is wrong with me.
--Michael
I'm extremely OCD so I get that little things can bother us. I don't mind the dial but if I felt as you did I would have sold it too.
I wish 6r movements included day complication. I know purists don't like it, but I find it useful.
hi check out the sarg019
+Leo I
Yes, SARG019 is a nice watch, but of course it does not include day complication either. The 6r movement does not support it.
mountainhobo sorry i meant to say sarw019
So sad these got discontinued
I bought the Sarg011. Love the red second and and maybe will get the bracelet from Seiya japan. I would disagree with it feeling like a rolex though. It's nice, and super light with a leather band but it's not Explorer 1 .... Tapping on the watch give a rattle sound from the rotor. I think it's priced right... but not a rolex... IMO (sorry)
What a Great Nice beautiful JDM Seiko. The Japanese Explorer
Exactly - a dressed up tool watch that will run reliably for years.
Here's the successor (if you can find one).
SEIKO PRESAGE Automatic Watch SARW015
I own a Seiko SARG009, the watch looks beautiful, but the 6r15 movement loses about a minute per day. We know, Seiko knows, that an automatic is not going to keep time as well as quartz but this is unacceptable. I hope your luck with this watch will be better than mine.
I second Michael's (Tough Solar) observation. The dissimilar arabic numerals spoil the dial for me. I understand the JDM quality however the prime interface is with the dial. Not for me. Still; enjoyed your review and wish you a Merry Christmas and a safe, successful New Year ... we're not so politically correct in Australia!
Thanks Brian, we're not so politically correct in the US either. We are the crazy colonial's who break the rules and lack discipline. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you as well my friend.
The Seiko 6105b from the 70's was hacking.
Thanks for letting me know!
i love this watch
I'm also a seiko fan boy lol
If you like a thin bracelet and a chunky watch, you would be amazed by the Seiko Shogun. Just sayin'
Yeah, there are many Seiko's I'd be happy to own.
Did I notice an Apple investment in the back :-) ?
You did indeed, with three cameras, three computers and four monitors plus lighting and a mic hopefully I have what I need now. TH-cam is expensive....
J. ANTHONY well done!
Thanks =)
Did I hear you say «Seabastard» there towards the end (at 14:40 playtime) ? Yes I did. Not a freudian slip, just the nickname you gave it, probably.
Another beautiful Seiko here. I would love to know Seiko's reasoning on not using a screw down crown on so many, if not all of these SARG and SARB watches around this $200-500 range. For a company that pays so much attention to the finishes of their cases you'd think they would have thought to throw in a screw down crown at some point!
For a sports watch recommendation I'd say you can't go wrong with the Speedmaster. Slightly biased since just buying one about a month ago, but even if he were to not want to moon watch, there are so many variations of the watch he can find one he loves. Another one he might like would be the Tudor Pelagos. If he is considering a no date sub because he doesn't like the cyclops, the Pelagos gives a date without the cyclops and at a cheaper price than the Submariner and maintains a similar look and style.
Good picks, thanks for helping Ben out and for the support.
I love these the look of these watches but I can't bring myself to spend $500 on a Seiko...
Jarl Ballin' its currently 350 on Amazon right now
You can get one used in like new condition for about $300 off eBay.
they're absolutely worth it, and more!!
But you'd spend more in a worse watch, woudn't you?
Seiko already discontinued this!
Off course you cannot possibly own everything that you review! That would create at least one problem: when you get up in the morning, what will you wear? And possibly it will cost you a lot of money. I have several watches, but I usually pick up my Kommandirskie hand wound one.
I like my Kommandirskie as well. Yeah, I never know which watch to wear...I have too many. I end up wearing a few during the day as I feel guilty ignoring them.
J. ANTHONY That's why I've decided not to be a watch-collector! Instead I find my selves with too many cameras!
Haha, indeed, There is a fine line between being a hoarder and a "collector." Some days I worry if I am becoming more of a hoarder haha. I still have boxes of model cars, ships, trains and planes sitting in storage that I need to figure out what to do with. They were my hobby before watches.
Nice watch but I can't help but think that this watch feels cheapish. Hollow links and rattly cheap bracelet with hollow end links and a watch that is typically slow which makes the hacking somewhat obsolete. I'll save my money and get a Rolex one day instead
If this had a screw down crown and a one piece steel case back it would become a classic!
Seiko makes great "homage" watches