5 Years Later With My Favourite $200 Seiko - A History & Review Of The FlightMaster SNA411

In the early days of the Urban Gentry channel I took a look at the Seiko Flightmaster SNA411 and described it as one of the best chronograph beater watches under $200. Over 5 years have passed with this watch in my collection and my fondness for this watch has only grown.
Why is it such a compelling watch among the Gentry?
How did its design come to be?
How has my perception changed during this long love affair with the now legendary "Flighty"?
Is it still the best watch under $200?
Today I aim to answer all of these questions. I discuss this feature rich piece in depth, with a look at the history of the watch, and give it a long overdue re-review. Join me in celebrating this beloved watch and ultimately see if it is still worth buying after all this time.
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[@ChoonChunx]

My dad works in the aeronautical industry and he gifted me his flightmaster when I turned 16 after he had it for over 10 years. Truly more than just a watch to me.

[@gdfggggg]

ChoonChunx cool

[@blessteddy]

True heritage

[@billbargar2284]

I am a pilot and the flight master was my first flight watch that I used the E6-B when my electrical went out. I followed it with a Navi-timer, but you can count on quartz.

[@jesusyeshuaelelyonelshadai6295]

Cool

[@kv3515]

@Madeline Monahan Yeah, would not mind hearing the whole story!

[@stevemcmiller339]

Please post the story

[@watchmegobroke4365]

I always go back and watch your older videos whenever I need to fall in love with my watches all over again.

[@wireguided9572]

I used to own a FlightMaster. Loved it and instantly regretted selling it. I brought a brand new one last week. Can't wait for it to arrive.

[@jameskeyser6243]

That's where I am right now. Cheers.

[@manuel_winde]

@@jameskeyser6243 and me 😄👍🏼

[@patrick_jane2164]

I really love the history you provide in each review ❤️

[@mikewysko2268]

I love Seiko designs and build quality. The yellow adds a dash of energy. Enjoyed the review. Well done Sir!

[@markmcdonnell]

The thing I love about these videos is the effort that goes into explaining the history of these watches (inc. other related watches) while making the content engaging and enjoyable. Great work (as using).

[@alexmetalism]

this is how youtube should be

[@ejames6431]

Always wonderful watch history! Thank you sir.

[@inkitatus1]

Coincidentally I'm wearing mine right now ⌚ Brilliant watch,not my absolute favorite in my modest collection, but certainly well up there 👍 Great recommendation TGV, love it. Excellent video as always. Cheers 👏

[@Powerhungry5000]

Your original review was one of the first watch videos i have ever watched and kickstarted my love for them. The 411 has been a mini grail for me and i finally got one today, thanks TGV!

[@yordanzdravkov7661]

Now that's a beautiful tribute to an iconic piece! May I add that I love the close up shots - especially on this busy dial.

[@monstrok]

Loved this episode! I had my gold tone Flighty out just for this occasion. What a great compilation of history and imagery. Thanks TGV!

[@jaeyongsuh466]

Your praise on this watch is fully appreciated. I am just buying it.

[@peterkull8354]

I was already about buying one !

[@tnkwok9682]

Great video as always. I bought my SNA411 after watching your previous review on it. Such a lovely watch. Thank you, sir.

[@mrbacchus6127]

Wow. Way more history than I was expecting. Well researched. I've had my Citizen Nighthawk almost 5 years which I feel is similar in spirit.

[@Matt_Barnes]

Sounds like we've both had our Nighthawks for about 8-9 years now. The mineral crystal on mine is beat to hell but I still love that watch enough for it to get about half my wrist time. Hope yours is still serving you as well as mine is! Especially after I actually took the time to learn to use the slide rule bezel about 4 years ago 😅

[@marchills4131]

As always, appreciate the obvious passion and reverence you bring to your videos, TGV. As much a rumination on this timepiece's place in horology as a discussion of its functionality. Stick with your formula; it works and is endlessly informative.

[@theurbangentry]

You are too kind Marc, I am humbled and honored. As for your latter point, I could not agree more! Thank you, Best regards, TGV

[@malbug]

Bought mine about a year ago after watching your video. Haven’t regretted it a bit. A great looking watch that has unbelievable features!

[@artgumbus]

WOW you really did a super job on this video. The history of the FlightMasters is priceless. Thank you so much for the time and effort you put into this show. BTW, I have the SNA411 and an earlier 7T34 Flighty with the register date and alarm. They are both running well and I think my 7T34 is just about 30 years old. Both fantastic and worthy of anyone’s Flighty collection and wrist. Again Thanks!

[@OFD]

Thank you for this history lesson. Impressive to say the least. The history of what Seiko has developed over the years should never be ignored. Cheers

[@Tenhoff1788]

I picked an sna411 up after watching your videos. Instantly my favorite watch. Thank you!

[@rever-mi6qz]

Amazing video Tristano, I appreciate my Flightmaster even more now. Thank you so much.

[@tredici72]

Great review, I bought one a few days ago, can't wait to receive it in the mail 🙂👍

[@spartyjames5231]

This was my first “real” watch, and I still love it to bits, and wear it regularly! I actually first stumbled across this channel in researching it, and I’m so glad I did! Love my Flightmaster, love the channel TGV! Keep up the good work!

[@theurbangentry]

What a perfect place to start and well, end too! All you need in life is a good flighty! ;-) Enjoy your flighty brother! Thank you, Best regards, TGV

[@klausm5460]

Wow, you are delivering videos at an impressive pace after your return. Great to see you don´t compromise with the quality. I get the impression my humble Prospex SSC009P catches some if not all of the appeal of the SNA411, but being Solar that´s at least one worry less.

[@tjarsun]

I had an SND253 and it was amazing but too manly looking for me so I sold it recently, might get another slide ruler bezel watch but in a light dial.

[@soap.333]

Everything about your videos scream passion! I love love love it! I gotta say; your intros are like fine wine or whiskey, they get better and better the more time goes on! I love that elegant hip hop introductory song with the visuals! Masterpiece!! Thanks TGV!

[@heikowallauer]

Thank you for that great review If the Flighty and the history behind it. Great stuff!

[@arkadiuszkrakowiak8179]

Absolutely loved this video. I really like these videos where you give us some history at the beginning. That music in background. Smooth, nice and very subtle. Great watch, great video. Wish you all best.

[@HeartlessNinny1]

Great video as usual, TGV. It's amazing how infectious your enthusiasm really is. I thought about buying a different model of Flighty myself, but after watching this video and spending what could only be described as an unhealthy amount of time staring at screenshots, I think I might snag this particular model. Might have to put it on an NDC as well. :)

[@CreamJockey]

I love the information and history! I love your content, keep the great work.

[@wannabeengineer]

Thanks for all the history, now I want one of the early models as well! I finally got this one a couple months ago, and it met all my expectations. I love the slide rule; after a bit of practice you go to your wrist when you need to do a calculation, no need to pull out the phone. The whole package is brilliant, they even crammed most of a tachymeter in there. Prices are back down to a ~$250, and mine was made last year, so if you are on the fence, this is a great time to grab one. You won't regret it.

[@bennethos]

Your videos relax me after a hard days of work. Subscribed and keep doing these beautiful videos that are a work of art. thx

[@danisantabarbara5931]

Great job TGV, as always, thanks a lot for your work mate, really appreciate it.

[@johnnytank944]

I got the 7T34-6A00 when they first came out. I saw it in a magazine, and almost immediately went and purchased one. I was about 16 at the time, and this was the first watch I purchased with my own hard earned money. I sold it a few years down the line, and only recently looked up the reference number so the I could get one back in my collection. I am happy as can be to have a "flighty" on my wrist again. What attracted me to it was the layout of the dial, with the four subdials. I also loved how they managed to put a sliderule on a watch bezel - my mind was boggled by that, at the time. I actually learned to use a lot of the functions of the sliderule bezel, but that has long since been forgotten. Thank you for the history lesson on the Flightmasters, it's always great to know the history of a watch one is wearing.

[@BeyondWrittenWords]

Really liking this video, your passion and love for this piece clearly shows.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you my friend, you are very kind for saying so, Onwards and upwards! Best regards, TGV

[@hyperdiddlydoo]

I am new in the watch market and I find your history and evolution of watch brands and models mesmerizing. Keep up the great videos. At this moment in time I am aspiring to get a Citizen Nighthawk Blue Angels but that's because my Dad took us to air shows a lot and it would be a nice memory when I check the time.

[@jwags24]

I just want to say I’m on my third time watching this video. The history in the beginning is so well done! Great work, sir!

[@asfandemail]

Thanks Tgv for this flighty review. I saw your previous flightmaster review and I was so impressed that I bought it. I must admit, I absolutely love it. I admire your taste in watches and this video is my favorite.

[@arrondeaumatthieu8658]

Once again a great video, under a gray sky, which looks so much like my Sarthoise campaign in FRANCE. Really a beautiful story with this watch, and the more I see Tristano's videos and the more I feel like it. Small ancillary question, but what is this black jacket? a SOFTSHELL PATRIOT? I love it. Thanks TGV for the energy and time and real love of watches, the videos seems like an advice between two no much more friends.

[@JDmikejackson]

Seiko Flighty ~ This baby never gets old - Period!! Great video & very well put together TGV. Lots of love from Canada.

[@luigisavoia2401]

Great video. Excellent history of this watch. I have the gold one pictured at 7:48 in the video. Bought it in the 90's when it first came out. Have had zero problems with it. Didn't know much about it other than I liked the look and the functions and I could afford it. That's pretty much how i bought all of my watches back in the 80's and 90's. And you're so right about the battery life. 3 year batteries last about 6 years in this watch. The jewelry store that changed the battery for me recently said they did the last one six years ago. As far as the alarm goes, my ears don't hear it as well they used to so, i now just use the alarm function as a second time zone.

[@maximum805]

Awesome production. I put it in my favorites and will *watch from time to time* (no pun intended). I have been waiting a long time for you to give a really good review of the watch that I have cherished and owned for 12 years now. I wear it with pride and joy. Please continue to give us video's that we do appreciate and love to watch. BETTER THEN TV.

[@necron9987]

Thank you for your amazing video. I just ordered the Flighty and I can not wait for it to arrive.

[@ryanz76]

Cool video... bought one last year due to your recommendation....along with a Sinn, a Rolex, and another Seiko. I think my wife would like to have a word with you. 😂😅.

[@theurbangentry]

LOL, I think there is a few wives out there who want to do the same! A Sinn, Seiko and Rolex eh!?! You classy devil! ;-) Enjoy them my friend. Best regards, TGV

[@danielhacker1248]

You have done it again ! The Flighty is pure class & being an English man I love marmite! & the soggy countryside. This watch is now on my shopping list for birthday or Christmas! Much to my wife’s horror as my collection is now exceeding 15 watches now I have a lovely IWC pilots chronograph & a black ceramic Christopher Ward c1000 typhoon chrono , but mainly due to the Urban Grentry & a man called TGV I just can’t stop my addiction to

[@Rich9107]

Dear Urban Gentry, I just bought my very own SNA411, it was watching one of your videos that brought the first attraction to it. And I have to tip my hat to you for inspiring me. Since watching your videos, I've started collecting with starting of with Seiko's and hopefully soon to be delving within the Swiss offerings. But I digress as, must point out you were totally right about the SNA411. Its perfectly sized, usable in any situation weather formal or casual, its durable and brings so much positive attention to my wrist and myself among other watch collectors. Cheers to you and many thanks again for inspiring me and for imparting your knowledge across.

[@KRW628]

Terrific history! I wore my Flighty out this evening. It's a do anything watch. It goes with jeans and a rugby shirt. It goes with a suit. I wear mine on a Bond (black/olive/red) NATO. Seiko did not end production, they shifted production to China. New watches are available today.

[@bubbab7792]

It's videos like this one that makes you my favorite watch historian and horologist as well as a professor in combining horology and history. Spot on TGV, great content 👍. I enjoy my personal flighty. Love the yellow and busy dial. Until next time my friend, class dismissed. O/U..... 😉

[@lacanian_lifter]

I’ll say here what I’ve felt to be true about many of your best reviews, TGV-your passion for this piece makes want one in my own life. Absolutely compelling overview.

[@peterr.7429]

Wonderful video, with a marvellous background in terms of history of the watch making it very interesting

[@spektrograf]

It's the love and passion for any interest that makes meeting people interesting-and then the open curiosity in exchanging perspectives that makes the conversation most appealing. TGV, you certainly are among the few who set the bar for those characteristics. Many thanks for being… Gentry. :)

[@willek1335]

Lovely presentation. This is what I like about channels like Satorial Talks and Hespokestyle. There’s a noticable effort that goes a long way to keep me subscribed. Cheers from Norway.

[@notguiltystyle]

Good job TGV on this video. Some solid info and really entertaining to watch!

[@christopherananias2313]

I just bought this watch in the wee hours! Thanks, TGV for your videos. You definitely got me into watches, especially the Flightmaster.

[@spearthumb3780]

Thanks very much for bringing this watch to my attention. I just bought 2 of them. LOVE the channel by the way. Keep it up 👍

[@LeoBauer1973]

Thank you for the video mate. You're a legend

[@MrChristryon]

Another great video TGV!! Inspired by your praise; I picked up a Flightmaster two months ago. I absolutely love it, and really enjoy wearing it. 👍👍

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

Fantastic video. Keep up the good work.

[@malpri9000]

Your story review is always so damn relaxing I just fall a sleep listening to it. 😴😴 Thank you.

[@1Rolinha]

I’ve had my Flighty almost a year now, and I am still smitten by it. My favorite part is how utility and aesthetic are perfectly mixed, making it a beautiful watch to look at as well as use its computing functions. It gets compliments everywhere I go. I have mine on a dark red NATO right now. Been having trouble finding a yellow perlon. Having learned it’s history makes me appreciate it even more. It is my favorite Seiko as well! Thank you for such a wonderful video. BTW that Navitimer is one of my grail watches

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Rudy, you obviously "get it". So happy to hear you get compliments too and I love the NATO choice, I might have to try that!!! As for the Navi, a very worthy grail, I hope you get it one day. Best regards, TGV

[@1Rolinha]

The Urban Gentry I’m going to have to put my grail plans on hold. I’ve recently inherited a vintage Omega that belonged to my grandfather, circa 1960. I am going to focus on bringing it back to its glory!

[@N0GIY]

This is going to make want a flightmaster....

[@mariusardeleanu3884]

I already want it 😀

[@roscoejones4688]

You are so right about that. I have one and it's all his fault....lol. And I love mine too.

[@AlwaysBolttheBird]

I’m 1 minute in and yeah I’m pretty sure I know what I’m buying tonight haha

[@snipermetal13]

Im in the same page as you

[@alalamari]

Yeah I'm on the list of QUICK purchasers! Owned about 2 months.

[@yususetyo3202]

Living in a big city my whole life, love seeing the background. Look so natural & Fresh.. 👍👍 And thank you for the history background of FlightMaster, I am new to flightmaster. Your video is the most complete story i ve seen so far. Thankyou...

[@ollyw2897]

Only just watching this today after getting properly into watches recently. I’ve learnt from this video that a Seiko I bought over 10 years ago has the 7T92 movement you mention in this video. And I bought it at the time because it was shiny! You’re videos really are another level in terms of information and back story. I’m loving learning more about watches. I’m now on EBay frowning at the 2021 flightmaster prices. 👍🏻

[@chumpey]

Wow! Incredible video. Blown away by how comprehensive that was. Thank you mate! Seiko is a brand I'm really starting to appreciate more and more, largely thanks to you.

[@neilg3626]

Amazing amazing video. The History behind the watch and the fact you didn't leave any stone unturned. I just ordered it to complete my Seiko trifecta. SKX007, Orange Monster Original version, and now this exact Flighty. Thanks for the awesome video.

[@linusnyman3067]

And another watch to my collection.. Need to stop looking at your videos XD. Keep up the great work.

[@christianroberts8134]

Analog G-Shock. I like that description.

[@hakujin480]

I have purchased the seiko flight master based on you're glowing review years earlier. It is my first watch and I acquired it after working my first job over the summer. I couldn't be happier. I have taken this watch skiing, snorkeling, sailing, swimming, snow camping , hiking , and it looks as good as the first day I got it. This watch also can be combined with a lot of out fits. It looked just as good on my wrist while attending a formal wedding, as did camping in the Oregon outback. I originally was planing on getting several watches, a field watch, dive watch, tool watch, but now I only need one. Of coerce i'm still lusting after many other time pieces but this certainly checked all the boxes. Thank you for you're reviews. I find them entertaining and informative.

[@PedroRocha-uo8mg]

I own a SSC008 solar powered flightmaster. It was the watch that go me into this hobby. To this day my Flighty was the only watch I bought from a dealer and that I've paid retail price for. It's been running for 4 years now without skipping a single beat. I just love it. I don't wear it much but I just cant sell it. It was my first watch and I still pick it up and test the chronograph before I choose the watch to wear that day. I love the busy dial, the size. It an amazing piece.

[@kevwilliams1]

I absolutely love the look of this watch and matched up with the olive green strap with yellow strip you chose to pair it with is absolute Perfection. I’m itching to pull the trigger on this flight master after watching your video. Thanks for your uploads really enjoy your channel great job your doing TGV. All the best

[@homemadelemonade976]

Although my first watch wasn't a seiko, I absolutely love my Seiko SSA231-K1! Planning on getting another seiko this summer, perhaps a diver. Thanks for absolutely astonishing videos! They really are something else in terms of content, excellent balance of both classy presentation, and exquisitely narrated history of the watch! Not too little, not too much. You rock! :D

[@robertmarshall72]

TGV yet another fantastic review, and another fantastic watch that not only looks brilliant but as you said is a classic in the making. 👍

[@jackdillon4467]

Great video on the Flighty!!! I just received mine today and paired with a 21mm vollmer mesh bracelet from Marc at Long Island Watch. I now see exactly why you love this watch! Thanks so much for all your reviews and especially the history of the Flighty! Your efforts convinced me to try it out and I know for sure I will never sell this one. It’s an absolute keeper and it certainly is the “Bees knees”!!! All the best to you and thank you for expanding my overall passion for watches!! I love this hobby! Cheers! Jack

[@robertkotoviets1449]

Awesome video. Just watched. Might I enquire as to the jacket maker and hat as well. Thanks TGV. Good to see you smiling.

[@panoslioulias6231]

What a coincidence I bought the Flighty for my youngest sons 16th in two days, I was introduced to the watch by you Tristano, I can not wait for him to open the gift....Keep on the great work and infectious enthusiasm, greatly appreciated. Panos

[@refugiogolf1]

Thanks to this video i got one my first seiko and it is a sna 411 with ndc strap ! Love your videos keep it up!!👍🏼

[@speedy1759]

Great video, sir! I already liked the Flightmaster. Now I want one even more. You’re a scholar and a gentleman. Love the watch! Love the rifle! Cheers from across the pond in the US!

[@Rich9107]

Have been looking to buy 1 for over a year, racking the internet across the board at official sellers, unofficial sellers and few second hands. This video has clarified my decision that I am going to get a flightmaster as my starter to my collection. Simply looks amazing and love the utility nature of it. I was thinking to get a Hamilton King Khaki as a starter to my collection but I think the SNA411 is just too amazing to miss out on. Cheers and thank you so much Governor!!!!

[@thermionic1234567]

Glad to see you back!

[@jc944t]

Had no idea Seiko was standard issue for the RAF in the 80's. Yet another interesting, military/historical tidbit from you. Thanks TGV!

[@dvpemberton]

Many thanks TGV for your perspectives on this model. Finally pulled the trigger after two years of deliberating. Purchased for £240 new. Very happy with it. Wears well at the weekend with my sbga285 taking the daily wear spot during the week. Continue wearing yours in good health.

[@NoName2C]

Just purchased one myself really fell in love with the watch from your review and now that I seen the history I appreciate it even more. 👍

[@Zebrashark777]

Great video! Love the history.

[@belsarerc]

Woww!! Another good one!!! Thanks TGV!!!u never fail to amaze me!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Rohit :D You put a big smile on my face. Best regards, TGV

[@TheCigarCrook]

Ahhhh, I’m back to your videos after first subscribing when you only had just under 1000 subscribers. So happy for your channels success brother!

[@TheMonsterHunterTV]

The style from the model on the right at 6:28 is my favourite among all flightmaster models. Pure class

[@dosprompt5418]

Classic video, returning to this during a week of only watching videos on watches I already own

[@richarddrewett510]

TGV...Just purchased a flighty from Marc at Long Island Watches. Can’t wait for it to come in after all the good things I’ve heard you say in multiple videos!

[@ianbutler1983]

So I am betting the kamikaze watches are hard to find on the used market?

[@u-8743]

Haaaaaaa, this guy!!!!

[@CtFshd1812]

Not surprising considering they mostly share the fate of their wearers......

[@Alex-1611]

@@CtFshd1812 Congrats, you found the joke

[@HeartlessNinny1]

@@Alex-1611 Did he, though?

[@scrawford9]

@@CtFshd1812 love you Benny but you blew it bud

[@Albanbanbanban]

An other fantastic review. Thanks to you I bought last year the same watch for only 220 euro ! Greetings from Belgium 🇧🇪👍🏼

[@goldtoothjacko]

T, Absolutely fascinating video. Thanks for all the super quality content you share with us all. Very best. Matthew

[@theurbangentry]

Matthew, I was just thinking where you are?!?! Thank you again for the amazing straps, it has given a whole new dimension to the Flighty. I hope others will have the same experience as I have, Anyways, I hope all is well, O&U! Best regards, TGV

[@watchesandclass1874]

Wonderful 5 years reaview.. you actually inspiered me to buy a Seiko.. i got the snzf15k3 on a brown leather strap.. thanks for being a inspiration in the hobby/science/ lifestyle called horology.

[@watchcrazy8113]

Great video! I've just restored a Seiko 7a28-7120 Raf pilots watch. I bought it from the original owner and it needed a full service and new circuit board but its working great now. The 7a 15 jewel quartz movements are really special.

[@jnrjnr77]

Thanks for the video Tristano 👍 having owned the flighty twice before I totally agree with how well built and reliable it is at a really affordable price too 👌 some of those earlier models are gorgeous 😍 I’ve also owned the bond 7a28 chrono both with the moon phase and without, really great timepieces and arguably the best quartz movement Seiko have ever made. With the main components being metal it made them easy to service and long lasting.

[@jarl7229]

I got the snd253. Picked it up when I visited Japan last summer, my first watch after getting into watches (because of you). Wearing it right now while watching and I love it. Great video, love the mix of the “history time feeling” and the “watch review” part of the video.

[@theurbangentry]

What a great way to remember the trip. I am honored by your comment btw, it inspires me greatly. Thank you for taking the time to share that. Onwards and upwards Jarl! Best regards, TGV

[@michaeljones701]

Excellent review of this watch; I recently bought one after seeing this review so I can rotate my other good watches more - what a smart purchase, I love this watch already. Came on a steel bracelet which I will probably keep on it as its very comfortable on my wrist. Doesn't look out of place next to my Breitling and Tag watches - a keeper.

[@bmflmf]

Just got mine today. NDC strap came in too. Struggled a little to get the strap in, but it worked. Looks great. Thank you!

[@Tomatohater64]

Just a genuinely superb video. Very well researched and presented. My first watch was a 1982 Seiko which ran flawlessly and lasted 11 years before it gave out. In 1982, I paid $160.00 for it.

[@stanimirZ1987]

You put so much effort to these videos!

[@anthony_ugent007]

Hey there TGV, I just wanted to say that I've also always been completely enamored by this watch too for many years since it first came out. I finally decided to pull the trigger on this one tonight on Jomashop with a $10 promo code I found online for the bargain price of $209. I can't wait to finally unbox it and will wear it with lots of love and great health. I will also have to admit, your videos really gave me that extra push to pull the trigger finally and I'm so very happy, so thank you very much my friend, you're indeed pure class!- Anthony U.

[@bobfrombrisbane1831]

WoW, comprehensive video as always. ⌚️⌚️⏱⏱.