Best Bargain Watches Under $250 In 2022: An Underrated Seiko Gem & Bill Murray's Audemars Piguet

In today's video I unbox an amazing bargain watch and underrated gem from Seiko. This "do it all" timepiece (Ref. 7F39-6010T) which I've nicknamed the Seiko Scrooged watch, might just be the best dress watch with a moon phase under $300. With a rich history behind it, and packed with a host of super useful complications, it also shares a link to one of the most important Audemars Piguet watches of the 1980s-the Quantieme Perpetual Calendar. The Seiko style and design was heavily influenced by the AP, which was made famous by Bill Murray and his iconic role in the 1988 movie Scrooged. Join me for a fun video featuring horology, cinema, style and culture, as I continue my search for cool new sweet spots in the affordable used watch market.
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[@ashleysmith89]

I love how TGV takes an obscure, relatively inexpensive Seiko reference from 1989 and explores its place in cultural and horological history. It's such a relief from the endless videos on some other channels about Rolex prices.

[@swilkobarfingtoniii1642]

As a young man in my 20's through most of the 1980's, I can confirm that these types of white dial, moonphase complications were absolutely the aspirational watches of the era. Rolex with a solid gold President bracelet was what your dad wore... Patek was what the young up and comers were after.

[@Bearded_Tattooed_Guy]

It never ceases to amaze me the sheer enthusiasm over what other watch channels would deem "cheap", TGV manages to mobilize. Always ready to find the good, the redeeming feature in a watch. We have something to learn from this positive approach, not only to watches, but to life itself. Thanks, TGV. Excellent, as ever.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much Pal for the inspiring and kind words, deeply appreciated! Onwards and upwards my friend! Best regards, TGV

[@direwolf1883]

I can't hear anything besides corn now.

[@tompwilliams1]

Received this watch in 1988 as a graduation gift from law school. Still works and worn every day at work with my suits until I retired in 2015. A little worn, but it’s still on my wrist from time to time.

[@duanephillips2343]

I would like to see an episode on maintenance of vintage quartz watches. My 1988 Seiko quartz watch - an engraved gift from my parents with my university logo on the face - runs great but eats batteries. I have heard this is common - does the movement need replacing? Thanks for another great vid and keep a close eye on Hugo...

[@sturmgold]

Hugo humming the Jurassic Park theme just made my day ❤😅

[@andywilson3761]

Currently washes the dishes in ol Blighty. 2 minutes in. I see Hugo’s up to his old tricks. Looking forward to this one! 🦖

[@WookieChewie13]

TGV actually makes creative content, not just a salesman selling watches in youtube. Thank you for this! OG! Hello from Macau. Crazy city whos into watches, lots of TGV fans here.

[@highman30001]

Absolutely phenomenal. I love that it’s quartz too. Makes it so much more accessible and useful in an everyday situation. Also the size is just perfect. 10/10 best bang for buck I have seen in a while

[@mr.reelmedia]

These videos showcasing obtainable watches with history and technical information are my faves. They are what originally got me watching gentry back in the day. I'm all for more videos like this. Heck thats how I learned about the spaceview back in the day. Now I own a spaceview and a omega f300. They are my favorite watches. Btw my f300 is on the wrist candy nato your explorer is sporting. Perfect match.

[@HRM.H]

Imo for under 250 you can't beat a Seiko Grand Quartz or King Quartz. They were often just as wel finished as the non quartz counterparts. A decent example goes for 200 to 250 usd. They used temperature adjusted movements that often were accurate to +20 seconds per YEAR! They came with amazing dials and often hand polished cases.

[@theurbangentry]

Very cool indeed, I will certainly have a hunt for that, Thank you for sharing that Thomas, great recommendation. Best regards, TGV

[@HRM.H]

@@theurbangentry no worries ! They made some amazing linen , "diamonddust" and snowflake dials. I owned a king quartz 9923 , it never gained any time over a 3 year period. Some guy in a Facebook group has a quartz timegrapher , his king and Grand quartz were often accurate within 2 seconds per year. Basically the pinnacle of the quartz crisis.

[@AK-rq1cz]

That's close to Grand Seiko 9f quartz accuracy

[@HRM.H]

@@AK-rq1cz yeah it nearly matches it. Their temperature adjusted twin quartz movements were insanely accurate and pricey back then. Same price and sometimes even more expensive than the hi beat Grand Seiko/King Seiko's

[@williamsmith9561]

Thank you for this tip. I didn't know about them and they are going for no money on ebay. For that money I may have to pull the trigger.

[@duncancameron398]

Love this price point type review, allows budget watch collectors to be well educated. Keep them going

[@mackledee]

Love it. You could make it a series. The $250 challenge. What cool, unexpected pieces can you get for under $250.

[@HOPP750]

I just wanted to drop a huge thank you for this video. The blend of humor and THIS particular piece has somehow magically sparked an interest in horology in my 11yr old son! Now we’re hell bent on finding this reference as we both love it and I think will be that one item your dad has that you constantly admire. (At least until the collection grows!)

[@dominicfurfaro8577]

On a cold winter day before heading out from home your video is a treat. I don't know why.

[@vmarsch]

I bought a very similar Seiko model (with a gold dial) in the late eighties for maybe $120. The first watch I every bought that seemed too nice for me to wear. I LOVED THAT WATCH! I wore it everywhere, even camping and hiking. I wish I hadn't lost it long ago.

[@GuyVanderAa]

Love those intros. Love how you can show us gorgeous watches at affordable prices. 👍😊

[@mattys1467]

Brilliant to hear the context of this watch. Really appreciate the effort that goes into providing it. I can't wait for the next in the series.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Matty, always appreciated/ I am considering doing this monthly, depending on what is out there of course. Lets see what else I can find! 🤞😃 Best regards, TGV

[@SoCalWatchReviews]

Another incredible video brother! That intro 👏 and this Seiko is extremely beautiful. Thank you 🙏 for the history lesson and showing us this watch! ❤️

[@Phil5150Bower]

Another great upload as usual, it’s truly amazing seeing a gentleman who appreciates all types of watches irrelevant of the pricing, it definitely highlights your humble character tgv, best wishes my friend. 🤙🏻

[@peten9342]

Just popped up on KZbin and I see the watch I got for my high school graduation in 1988. I still have it. It’s what captured my love for watches and Seikos. May be time to get it serviced and up and running. I am also seeing a MM300 in my future. Great Vid. Your work is excellent!

[@ronpruitt3832]

Mark’s channel with his Watch and Learn series and The Urban Gentry are the two best watch channels on the planet. The history behind this watch was very interesting. The opening with Hugo was the best ever. How do you do that? Unbelievable! Keep up the great work.

[@BrittPearceWatches]

This is my favourite Seiko I have ever seen! 😱 very classy looking! I love it!

[@matthiasvangysel938]

just by the music i knew Hugo would be in the intro (my favorite type of intros). A very budget friendly video too and might buy one. Thank you

[@SkilfulLeader1]

Here we go with some more great content! Thanks TGV 👍

[@ExpeditedProductions]

Really excellent work, as always, TGV. Really interesting to see how Seiko was making homages of more high end pieces before homages were a thing. This one seems to have been well done and unique in its own right. I was thrilled to see that I am not the only person on the planet who pauses movies on a wrist shot and walk up to a big screen TV to see it in detail. I was certain I was the only one so inclined😜. I must say, if Hugo had “borrowed” my Santos, I would most likely have a new reptilian leather strap for it! Be well, TGV. Looking forward to the new series of episodes. Onward and upward, my friend!

[@alexm2113]

Loved the subject of this video. Looking forward to seeing more of this style of content for sure! And omg, Hugo's static noises in the intro 😂

[@Evankaspar]

Fantastic video and a great watch. The enthusiasm and interest just brings me back again and again.

[@BongoManal]

Thanks for going more budget again, great! Love your content and hope you are well. Beste regards!

[@americanlegendswatches]

Loving the 80s vibes you sprinkled in throughout this review. Gotta love a good moon phase, and Seiko has probably the easiest to set of any I've seen!

[@adrianjanssens7116]

Thank you for a glimpse into to movie poster collection. The French Conformist poster made me envious. Interesting and enjoyable intro sequence. Cheers from Canada.

[@swimmer751]

"Mountbatton residence, Hugo here..." 0:51 hahahaha fantastic. The most unbelievable part isn't a talking dinosaur named Hugo with impeccable taste, it's that he was able to answer his iphone with his claw tip.

[@johnchampion6926]

Absolutely love the fact there's a video on this. I myself got this watch about 2 months ago, not having a clue about its history and have been loving it ever since. Managed to get mine for about $160 and also with the original strap!!! In absolutely beautiful condition and one of my go-to pieces that I own

[@WatchUnwind]

Congrats on an awesome pick up John!!

[@DustandPiers]

The Explorer looks great on the Valor collab. I just picked up the El Alamein for my blue dial Alpi, and it's a match made in heaven! Great work on that one. Love this episode - finding compelling pieces that don't break the bank, but also aren't super common, has been increasingly appealing to me lately. There are simply so many great, thankfully undervalued pieces from the last 30 years that I'm able to calm my animal lust for the 124270 until things (hopefully) return to a saner place in the steel sports realm of the market.

[@chinmaychiplunkar]

Ahh, I just bought a beautiful Sun & Moon Dial Titan with roman numerals. This watch definitely is an inspiration for my beloved time piece. What a beautiful watch by Seiko..

[@petervanderpas1615]

Thanks for the video TGV! I’m OVER THE MOON about my recent eBay find, a similar model with a stainless bracelet. Rather reminds me of the Cartier Santos, in fact! Great, under-the-radar recommendation!

[@ozeskiman]

As always, a great review. Love what you do and your style. I have several Seiko quartz watches from the 80s. I don't wear them a lot but they all work and are classic style. Thin, elegant and functional.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Tony! Best regards, TGV

[@GinkgoJoe]

I read that Bill wore the watch because if he took it off for a movie role it would eventually stop, after which he had to go back to the shop and spend 200 bucks to get it reset (I guess the calendar is tricky?). Note that in the movie clip the date is November when they were filming and not Xmas eve....

[@mrpersonality3497]

And that's the reason why Bill had it written into the movie Quick Change.

[@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR]

Great stuff T! What a watch that Seiko is!! Absolute bargain! Flippin love SCROOGED!!!!!!

[@theurbangentry]

Haha, I know you do! It's very, well, you. I am not ashamed to say it always brings me to tears, but also so funny and clever too, they certainly don't make them like that anymore. Thank you fratello! Best regards, TGV

[@timescribe1607]

Seiko really is a gem to watch collectors, offering an immense variety of movements and designs at all different price ranges. This is why I love the brand.

[@botezsorinconstantin]

Very nice, like always! Thank you TGV! 🙏

[@davidmichienzi101]

Looks great TGV and I really enjoy you finding watches and reviewing something different😊👍⌚🇮🇹🇨🇦

[@spincast01]

I've been curious about what the pre-owned market has to offer in this price range. Please continue, TGV!

[@indianasunsets5738]

How cool! Another gem I didn't even know existed. Thanks for showing us this cool timepiece!

[@notyourgrandadswatch7705]

What a great looking watch. The two done is done in a very unusual but eye catching fashion. I have rarely ever seen a watch with two crowns, very cool. I haven't really been a moon phase fan but the more I see them and read about them, the more I would love to add one to my collection.

[@trimmersbigtablet4925]

Bill Murray AND Harold Ramis both featured in a video released on... Groundhog Day!👍👍

[@rangersmith4652]

There are dozens, probably hundreds, of great watches that be had for around and under $250. For me, there are no truly great watches that cost a lot more than that because a truly great watch represents great value. The value proposition for watches starts to wither at a price of over $300, IMHO.

[@theurbangentry]

Very interesting comment, a great subject for a video discussion too! Thank you for sharing that. Best regards, TGV

[@peterkull8354]

Hi Ranger Smith. I own quite pricey Rolex, Universal and Breitling pieces and more affordable watches like Direnzo 04, MaS Irukandji, Seagull 1963 and many other lovely little tickers, however in my opinion there are truly great expensive watches just as there are more affordable gems like the Seagull 1963 or a Hamilton Khaki handwinder for example. I cannot identify that the value proposition starts to wither at prices over 300 bucks. I still yearn for an old Longines 13 ZN in perfect condition and there is absolutely no doubt about the horological importance of this thing..............it´s just beyond my financial means ! 😢😢😢

[@Patriot4Life24]

I personally think that Jack Turner Watches are one of the best value watches out. Would love to see you review them on the channel and hear your opinion

[@QoraxAudio]

It's a matter of diminishing returns. That applies to almost every type of product. Costs rise exponentially compared to the increased quality or performance.

[@rangersmith4652]

@@QoraxAudio Absolutely. For any category of product or service, the buyer must determine where that point lies. It's not always easy.

[@Chrissepisje]

Very cool episode. The intro was odd as ever, but your enthusiasm for that little quartz was a breath of fresh air.

[@TheIcehouseink]

Too funny! I sent my friend a close-up of Bill's AP while watching the movie at Christmas and said "check out my new watch". Then I send him a picture of my Lorier Gemini. Waiting anxiously for the delivery of my Copper Safari! Love your channel! I subbed at around the 40k mark. Iceman

[@Iennysly]

My favorite intro on Yt😍 This Seiko looks insane! Regards from Germany.

[@daveyoder9231]

Three cheers for Hugo! Toodle pip, indeed. Great review, of course. We can always depend upon TGV. EXCELLENT!

[@AFCAWorldBodybuildingArchive]

Found a square square full gold Citizen day date on a bracelet with a texturized gold flakes dial for 32€. Incredible 🙏♥

[@swimmer751]

Absolutely love your channel. Keep it up!

[@johnmiranda9310]

😆😅🤣 Hugo kills me... Great intro.. It made my day. Thanks

[@alexmykim5354]

4:20 rocking ur QUEENS cap on the back🔥nice video as always🤟

[@thomashendrick6711]

Just uniquely wonderfully done video-again!

[@rtbarker]

Hahaha Hugo is always up to something 🤣 I love it that he was humming the movie theme

[@greglee752]

One of the best video you've done. Amazing story telling. Let me buy the watch off you! Can't wait for another one of these. Cheers!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Greg! Hopefully lots more to come. Best regards, TGV

[@DaveMGmovies]

Fantastic video TGV. Fascinating.

[@jt_olakunle]

Your intros are legendary. Keep it up Hugo!

[@theemersonexperience7282]

Nice art deco style watch. I have a similar vintage Seiko Moon Phase in very good condition with a 7T36 Movement. You are right, they don't make them like this anymore. Same lay out, but with a tachometer on a fixed bezel, rather than the coin bezel here. The seconds hands are internal dials & the chronograph is integrated into the moon phase at 12o'clock. I bought it from a matchmaker in Albany, CA for $180 out the door about 4 years ago. He cleaned all the gears and electronic connections, and installed a new battery. The gears are plastic and can wear. So there may be some elements of the complication not working properly. Also, their are electronics in these early quartz models that are hard to replace if shorted out. If you get one of these, I suggest getting a working spare movement / beater watch for parts. Also, like any vintage watch, the gaskets may be no good. So even if it says WR100, presume that you cannot wear in the rain.

[@heikowallauer]

Good evening TGV, I think you are setting the Moonphase-theme for 2022. The Seiko is a great find and a welcome alternative to the more luxury approach to the moonphase. The second time zone is such a useful feature. Great Reviews! Have a great evening!

[@theurbangentry]

Haha, yessss, I only just noticed now you mention it!!! Thank you my friend, I am so pleased you approve. Right, off to hunt for more moonphases I guess! Have a great evening too. 😎🥂 Best regards, TGV

[@XKCommander]

Amazing find bro! It’s beautiful.

[@peterkull8354]

Thank you Tistano for all this information and your appreciation for "Scooge". I am currently looking for quartz and tuning fork watches with ......... well made and beautiful movements. I mean, not that run-of-the-mill cheap quartz stuff. Your Scrooge Seiko seems like a contender to me. Thanks especially for the insights. You have proven once again: Little money can make a big watch. AND you are a real watch nerd (IMHO) 😁😁😁

[@matthewtiene4417]

That’s a great looking piece. Definitely a steal at that price point. I think a lot of great watches can be had at that $250-$300 price range

[@aurielkarlam9830]

If you are looking for a do it all dress watch under $250 from Seiko I would recommend the SRP761J1. Sapphire glass, 4R36 and 100m water resistance all with a very classic, elegant design!

[@MsVentusHawktor]

I have this piece and I absolutely love it! It really is a hidden gem amongst the Presage line up

[@ogreascension3391]

Would love to see TGV review this one! Super underated!

[@aurielkarlam9830]

@@MsVentusHawktor Right?! Wear it in good health my friend

[@aurielkarlam9830]

@@ogreascension3391 Would love to see that! Expect prices to soar the moment he does though 🤣

[@alainpanlilio6172]

I just saw this today and wore the 7F18-9A00 instead of my usual beater, its rarely been worn as gold and leather ( still original ) isn't my everyday color but since I'm working from home why not. Our 1st moonphase watch find for me and my wife. Thanks TGV.

[@77cjam]

Yes! Yes! With a giant side helping of yes! My favourite things in one video, the 80s, my favourite movie watch and the AP, and Japanese watches. Loving the Seiko , really need to get myself a moonphase, I just think they have a certain class. Your watch certainly has this. Superb sir, brought a smile to my face thank you 👍

[@theurbangentry]

You are spot on, I always think of old Tompian clocks ad classic clocks in Italy with moon phases, from a time when moonlight was so important, before the electric world. Excellent point, thank you Chris. Best regards, TGV

[@algreen1]

No matter what video I browse on your channel, I always enjoy. Fantastic body of work mate.

[@jojogpt]

That's a gorgeous watch. I currently own a Seiko Chronograph Perpetual (SPC251P1) as my dress watch. I got it for about $200 and it is, I think, the best looking dress watch under $200. I paired it with a crocodile leather strap and now it looks stunning.

[@jerryc6497]

Lol never thought I would find Hugo humming while taking a stroll so entertaining.

[@guzzijack9714]

Superb intro............................dahling. This is my price range for watches, though I do have more than $250 in the bank it wouldn't be sensible for me to spend $1000's on a watch. Please, more gems in the under $500 category like this. Cheers.

[@horstkaniny3614]

Always smiling moments when Hugo appears 🦖👌🏻

[@maxmarcus110]

A “treasure hunt” for an interesting vintage digital watch could be very cool.

[@Knightswhosaynee]

Your the best . You always cheer me up.

[@SingleTrackMined]

LOL intro. Beautiful little watch. What a gem. Cheers.

[@carloandyanne7019]

LMAO I love your opening skit!

[@frankieeisenberg6506]

My uncle has the exact same model, I’ve been in love ever since, constantly looking for one. I have an 8”+ wrist, and even though this watch is pretty small by today’s standards, it wears incredibly well.

[@tak178]

I have a 1983 Gold Tone Seiko that apes the luxury brands of the day. It's one that I searched for over a number of months, and when I found it on eBay, it cost me $75. Original bracelet with all the links, and the box. A great find. The 80s were amazing for watches.

[@mortenjespersen7594]

Great idea for a series! Love the watch👌

[@Javi_C]

Always a joy seeing these in the sub box 😊

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Javi, enjoy! 😎🥂 Best regards, TGV

[@zacharyg2966]

Thanks for the video TGV! When is episode 3 of watches in movies coming?......

[@rainerbuechse6923]

Priceless Intro! Marvellous!

[@finlaymcfly8942]

Nice video and beatiful piece !!

[@edboxell874]

Kippers knickers ! Haha haven’t heard that one. Love it. This channel is the kippers knickers!

[@chrisbradshaw7708]

Good Lord. I was just looking at Seiko moon phase watches today wondering if I should add one to my collection. Then this video drops. Time to make a purchase...

[@OwynDavies]

Excellent value! I'm yet to purchase a vintage piece, my only two being Omega's that have been passed down. The handful of models I'd be willing to take a chance on are just SO expensive.

[@thomasbroich5439]

I’ve been in love with 1980’s Seiko’s for a while there well made and take a lot of abuse. Again thanks for featuring a small watch they are the “bees knees “

[@sethbranam9068]

Great episode! Humor and history! Love it !

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Seth 😎🙏 Best regards, TGV

[@Ishabu7]

Thank you TGV for another great review! Love the introduction! Very funny!!! Spectacular watch for the price! May you please let me know of what you think on the affordable Kingsbury watch brand? Also in the price range of $200-$250. And if you have time May you please let me know if what you think of the Starking automatic watches with price range $60-$120? Thank you again! Stay healthy and well! Nicholas

[@CarbonGlassMan]

I love your channel man. I wear a Galaxy smart watch and don't own any other watch. Had a Swatch Watch when I was a young kid so I'm not really a watch guy but I love listening to your stories about these watches. Seeing the passion that you have for them is great to watch. The Hugo bit is fantastic too.

[@theurbangentry]

🙏🙏🙏🙏 Thank you so much, Best regards, TGV

[@ricfraser7436]

Lamo, love how he committed to angry dialing but already had the contact up

[@shirtpocketvids5395]

What a great way to head into a Wednesday evening. Time for a drink!

[@MrKkramme]

Excellent video!! Informative and unique!

[@pilgrim8610]

nothing couldnt make me happier than new UG video notification😍

[@paulwoodford6229]

Hugo cracks me up. 😂😂😂😂

[@richardtwyning]

Excellent video and excellent intro. Really happy with my Seiko 7T32-6M10. My wife bought it for me in 1999 and it's still going strong. It's a slightly better example of the one worn by Joe Biden. It's the first watch my wife bought me, so a treasured part of my collection.

[@kiwicory100]

Wow you put so much work into your videos.....much appreciated. Quick question: Do you know if the stars on the moon phase dial signify any particular constellation?

[@jeremycorrao]

Great video my friend! I hope Hugo brought the watch back to you with no scratches; I know those claws are sharp! Cheers!

[@jamesingrey]

The kipper's knickers, say no more. You just don't get that king of quality elsewhere on YT. Keep up the good work.

[@litsavage762]

Great video as always, hope you get back your Santos soon