The best ever reissued Seiko anyone can afford! 5 Sports SBSA223 / SRPK17 review.

Today we are looking at the surprising Seiko 5 Sports reissue, the SBSA223 / SRPK17. An awesome daily beater created by Seiko with accuracy after one of the most 1968 5 Sports. This is a limited edition made in 15.555 units and celebrates 55 years of Seiko 5. (enough for everyone) :D
Enjoy!

[@1988banker]

Thought it was weird at first. The watch has a very beautiful side profile. That changes the way I look at it now. It goes together nicely. A unique design, when so many watches look the same.

[@jerroldfrank5869]

Congrats on a great review. Just unboxed mine today (#12845) and I love it. Funky vintage vibe from the 60/70’s that’s quirky and kitsch. So glad they made a faithful reproduction. I was bopping around Japan in the late 70’s and the design captures the essence of that time and brings back memories. Nostalgia is a powerful thing…

[@BraveBeaters]

Thank you! Congratulations, that is a solid reissue and a collectable item to enjoy :)

[@galaga8834]

My SRPK17 purchased in Sydney has the kanji wheel. I absolutely love the watch and think it is the best Seiko release since the first reissue of the turtle.

[@BraveBeaters]

Omg! That is good news! :)

[@HRM.H]

I really hope seiko contiues making stuff like this. Love the old bezel lumepip style so much better!!! Maybe we'll get a true SKX remake someday. These were leaked AGES ago by a instagram acc

[@BraveBeaters]

Super exciting release, I fully agree! :) I am pretty sure, someday they will revive the SKX as well! Cheers

[@trippgs]

The SKX lives on in the Orient baby Triton

[@nirdanai2906]

Been wearing this watch for 4 months now. On the design side, it's a masterpiece, truly capturing the spirit of the early 70's. It looks better in reality than in the videos. HOWEVER, as a time keeping device, it's nothing short of a joke with the watch being off approx. 1-2 minutes/day. I'm a huge Seiko fan but they should be truly ashamed of offering such a low-quality product. I would have loved to pay more but get a piece with more reliable mechanics. Still, the watch looks great and is admired overall.

[@TerenceHughes4501]

I got mine as soon as I saw the first review and it's exceeded expectations. Seiko take a lot of flack for raiding their back catalogue, but very few manufacturers these days don't. They're all at it.

[@BradleyHansonPhotography]

A stunning design. Love it! I think it would look great on a mesh bracelet, too.

[@danielholman3436]

Excellent video!! I recently scooped up the non JDM version and LOVE IT! It is the perfect blend of old and new. It really does pull off the Vintage Seiko look but with the carefree ownership experience of wearing a new Seiko compared to a vintage watch.

[@riothero313]

This thing actually looks better in person, most marco or wide angle lens throw off the proportions of the dial. The one bad thing is the bracelet. If you have a small wrist it can be an issue because there is no articulation in these links. This wasn't a problem for me because I put it on a beads of rice and get to keep the original pristine. It actually looks more like a mini super engineer. The small rectangle links really play well off the minute track and it still has a vintage vibe.

[@jaykenigsberg2162]

Beautiful classic. Does a ton with a simple design. I agree that it has a vibe similar to the best Timex Q. It’s great to spend under $500 for an interesting piece a hobbyist can enjoy and appreciate.

[@Nightfury0695]

Great video and amazing camera work. You never fail to impress with the great shots and lighting.

[@BraveBeaters]

Thank you very much! :)

[@skxcellent]

Fantastic video, thank you! Both for the thoughtful review and striking camerawork! For me personally, I'm not a fan of this particular reissued model - BUT - I'm very much a fan of Seiko reissuing watches for their immense back-catalog on the somewhat affordable end of the spectrum.

[@BraveBeaters]

Thank you very much! Agreed, as someone said, the only way forward is to reissue from their past. :) Cheers!

[@DavidV4444]

This is one of the most beautiful watches in a market where every watch looks like every other watch! Stunning - mine is in the way from Teddy!

[@tbone121974]

That's a great step by seiko. I hope they re-release the Pogue next.

[@BraveBeaters]

I am pretty sure. They will!

[@nizarmurar]

​@BraveBeaters It is moon hype my friend. It is time for the Pogue . Many thanks for the great professional episode With love and respect Nizar

[@nizarmurar]

I support your idea . it is time to the moon . Great watch Nizar

[@Mthusiast4life]

Brace yourself people and buckle up nxt year 2024 will be the Seiko Pogue anniversary and we all will be in a very happy place with that reissue💛

[@BraveBeaters]

Uuuu ❤️

[@denniscrowley8517]

Beautiful. The 5 is back. Never liked the S - look. Also, with the band dropping away from the lugs, brings more focus on the watch case and face. Very nice.

[@BraveBeaters]

Fully agree, the chosen design to be reissued is excellent!

[@tcapd]

Thank you for showing us this watch. I love it, very cool and authentic vintage vibes, and 20mm lug width for convenience. I just struggle with the Hardlex, would have prefered sapphire or acrylic, but not mineral glas. Mineral glas sucks, bad. It has more reflections compared to acrylic, can shatter and scratch, and you can't buff the scratches out. Hardlex is a hard stop for me.

[@Nightfury0695]

For first I felt 15555 was so limited with a Seiko 5. These are selling out super quick and I missed out on the first lot at my AD thinking I can pick up one slowly. The first lot got sold out quickly and I had to already pre-order one from the second which would be the final lot for my AD. Grab it while you can guys, these are selling out super quick. It is a single production run don't expect Seiko to sell it the 15555 pieces over a year or two, the ones sold at my AD were already numbered at 10xxx so get one while you can.

[@BraveBeaters]

wow! thank fast? thank for sharing this Info. I thought the I will take some time to drain the entire amount :) Cheers!

[@k9teamzagrebskolazapse149]

Both it today, number 12901 and on Croatia, is last and in EU is also not soo common. So in 2,3 weaks, there will not be for sail, not one in stores. Super Good is kalendar. it's on 2 lengwiges. Its super good clasp and in biger number they make bezel beter so its nicer to cary. But for this watch is Milanes bracket ( like mesh ) I order from Seiko 40€ and its super good luck.

[@jerroldfrank5869]

I got #12845 today. Love it. Would be fun to own either #1 or #15555

[@markflopresti]

i just got mine it’s 2699

[@williamchan8866]

Definitely a keeper, very rare that Seiko actually recreates a vintage design. I rather prefer Seiko to either recreate a design, like this watch or give us a new design. Too many reimagine models.

[@ph69jbl]

I agree! They have milked dry the vintage cow with all of their reissues reimaginations and LEs… imo from the first ever reissue (the 2000 collection…) it all went down hill (with just a handfull Of exceptions….)

[@nerychristian]

@@ph69jbl So true. I am tired of Seiko producing so many watches. I think they have too many models. They should just focus on making the watches that are more popular and well designed. They should do recreations of their most iconic designs, plus a few new designs. When they make too many models, they begin to water down the brand.

[@porscheoscar]

looks like it could be another Hysek for Seiko design. thats a great design. I'd like to see it in black with a meteorite dial in light blue and that minute track in yellow. I like those Heuer vintage racing dials that Bamford modified.

[@johanhasan4707]

Thank you for the great review. Excellent watch. Easier to size as the bracelet only uses pins without collars

[@RandallSlick]

Great review. Instant Subscribe. Keep up your honest, informed and sensible commentary.

[@DisplayKeesBack]

Beautiful watch. Retro futuristic! Seiko still has it.

[@btmontres1423]

Love the retro vibe and attention to little things. Perfect would be a domed plexiglass crystal. Really good talking points and beats.

[@therealMrJoey]

Andrei watched your video today and after went straight to Seiko Sydney store and purchased the Seiko 5.

[@BraveBeaters]

haha! Good catch, Enjoy it :)

[@therealMrJoey]

@@BraveBeaters On the wrist already, 08825.

[@archievthapa3593]

What a channel !!! So much fun & colour - very well done !!!

[@antonyreyn]

Tim write channel just gave your latest video a shout out , oisin o malley was on the panel too its about an hour in , cheers

[@amo4378]

Great vid - thank you. Now off to order one!

[@rakkary]

Mal alignement is seiko’s signature… thank you for the video

[@ronp4737]

Got one at relese love it! Retro vibe! Cool! Wear on bracelet

[@ducuBAR]

The profile silouette is very very nice!

[@BraveBeaters]

100% vintage, yes :)

[@donfoley1590]

Excellent. Love this watch

[@oleksandrpavlov6290]

Nice watch! Reminds me of Certina DS PH 200M.

[@BraveBeaters]

very true! has the same appeal!

[@HRM.H]

The bracelet looks pretty great aswell. Might pick one up someday

[@BraveBeaters]

Yes. The bracelet works very well with the case :) Cheers!

[@ph69jbl]

@@BraveBeatersdoes it pull hairs?

[@Henry1981live]

Just ordered mine today

[@ph69jbl]

I like that you set the date on the 5th ;) and the Sunday’s red. I would have appreciated to see the Saturday’s blue as well but maybe on your next vid on this watch (after 10 years of ownership…LOL). I love Seiko’s weekend collored themed days as well! Cheers for another cracking vid! 👍

[@BraveBeaters]

Saturday is not in Blue, R :( only Sunday.

[@ph69jbl]

@@BraveBeatersdamn…. No blue Sat… no me gusta :)

[@883shane]

i love this watch and im lucky enough to have one which will be arriving very soon . i am so excited

[@Gary_Parr]

Hi. Great vid, you have a new subscriber. I love mine (No 07778). I’m not a big watch collector (this is my first one 😮). I was checking online they were selling fast. When I found one at retail, I jumped.

[@BraveBeaters]

Thank you! Great move, As far as I understood, they are going out fast.

[@jonasthemovie]

Got mine today. Love it!

[@BraveBeaters]

Congrats!

[@desireless4092]

Seiko are pulling Tudor on us. And I am not complaining.

[@BraveBeaters]

haha, good one! :)

[@micknick74]

Bought one and returned it the day after, did nothing for me and didn't give me any vibes and having the 6 o'clock index tilted on a very true seiko qc fail, opted for a sideral instead

[@chrisb5986]

Love it. Really want the Kanji version.

[@thebestoffools]

Great video. I was lucky enough to find one last week at a local Seiko authorized dealer and I instantly fell in love with it. So I bought it on the spot. I'm really glad I did. I also have a SKXP19 Seiko 5 from 1999-2000 and a newer SRPD51. Out of the 3, the SRPK17 is the one I would keep if I had to choose only one. Ticks all my boxes. Edit: Could you recommend a rubber/silicon strap for this watch? Do you think a tropics strap would fit because of the way the downward lugs are made?

[@BraveBeaters]

Nice catch! Congrats! I just tried some rubbers on it, missed to do that for the video :( The spacing is pretty tight underneath the case, some thin rubbers work, like some aftermarket tropics. For example I tried this model from 7friends&watches and works well. 7friendsandwatches.com/p/rubber-and-canvas-watch-strap-cream/ Or 7friendsandwatches.com/p/rubber-watch-strap-black-marlin/

[@thebestoffools]

@@PepRex Okay, thanks!

[@thebestoffools]

@@BraveBeaters Thanks for your reply. I had originally ordered a StrapCo Vintage Rally Style Rubber Strap but got a message saying they were out of stock (in black). Then someone mentioned Rubber Tropical Straps were also good option but with the way the lugs are made it's hard to know if a strap will fit on this watch until you actually try it on. I'll look into some options and will report once I find something that works...

[@tobiasharpse4912]

Hey - I already have an skx - would I wear this instead or in a symbiose with my skx?🙈

[@johnvienna3422]

Congratulations on scoring a JDM version. I always prefer kanji, but had to "settle" for a European version. On the back it says, "Made in, like, wherever". I put "settle" in quotes because the non-JDM is still a fantastic watch. Chronometer accurate (in my case), and with that great bezel for timing, like, whatever.

[@andrews527]

So the bracelet only flexes inward so much, like a cuff? Loose, it's like a bangle bracelet?

[@Koishishibaman]

Thanks for the review. Been looking at them but haven't pulled the trigger. Why? I want the jdm version with kanji. Most vendors are charging a premium of $200 plus over the international watch. Don't want to pay it. Speaking of vintage look. Just got a Bulova Jetstar. The limited edition came on a shiny 80s bracelet........bling😂. But also a blue leather band with red stitching. Really nice on the leather strap!

[@tailsneon556]

There are 1300 SBSA223's supposedly. Mine is nearly 01100.

[@richmck007]

Que bueno! But why this watch in particular???

[@Dadication3]

Thank you for your great content. JDM version on the way, looking at the stapcode razor in case the bracelet doesn’t fit my 7.5 wrist well.

[@BraveBeaters]

Congratulations, has enough links, it will fit :)

[@shaagaknowsyou5295]

Where'd you get the JDM one from+

[@Dadication3]

@@shaagaknowsyou5295 Joseph Gann Jewelers

[@Dadication3]

Tell Josh Patrick sent you and you might get a better deal

[@Dadication3]

@@shaagaknowsyou5295 sorry, not JDM, I found out that JDM goes up to 1300, but at just over 1300, my dial has “Made In Japan” printed between 6 and 630, no Kanji wheel though.

[@haleluke7572]

Hopefully u’ll review seiko 5 sports bubble tea Taiwan exclusive 500 made limited edition. Thnx!🙂🙏🏽

[@MasterOfNone88]

Gorgeous !!!!

[@Sirkelsag666]

Can't wait for the 8L35 version for 3500 USD

[@BraveBeaters]

ahahah! good one!

[@Sirkelsag666]

@@BraveBeaters Thank YOU for the vdeo! ('^_^')

[@socman3988]

Love Seiko watches and I own a few of them however not sure about this new model. Looks more like a Timex rather than a Seiko.

[@BraveBeaters]

haha, my initial feeling as well :D

[@JohnDoe-zo2xo]

I got the masked rider version 4000 pieces

[@dunderhay9169]

Good review and a very nice watch 👍

[@BraveBeaters]

Thank you!

[@NorthernWatchClub]

Wow your videography skills are amazing! The watch looks even better on your videos than in real life lol. I just made a video of this watch as well, what gear and lights do you use to make videos like this?

[@BraveBeaters]

Thank you very much! I like how well the design works with the straps you proposed. Well done! :)

[@NorthernWatchClub]

@@BraveBeaters Thanks! Love your videos :)

[@garretthu2466]

Just get the Kanji day wheel, its a few bucks and any watchmaker can put it in. Of course you can tell it was modded since it wouldn’t be the first 1300 (from a Japanese reviewer) that was dedicated to JDM but would be cool to have. The second most sought after version will be the ones allocated to the USA, like the JDM version it has Made In Japan on the dial and case back. Then there are the rest of world that got ones without MIJ.

[@jimwatchyyc]

For the watches not marked as Made in Japan, ie, SRPK17, are they still made in Japan?

[@garretthu2466]

@@jimwatchyyc I really don’t think any of them are actually made in Japan. The economics doesn’t work at Seiko 5 prices. From what I’ve been told, they are allowed to use MIJ if the product was made in a factory wholly owned by a Japanese company and production is overseen by a Japanese national. That’s different from a product that needs to be significantly transformed or incurred a significant cost in the country to be designated Made in that country. Some countries recognize this and some don’t. So that’s why you have MIJ stamped on some and not others. But they are all coming out the same factory is what makes the most sense. But as it stands having MIJ still commands a slightly higher premium at secondary prices because the original has MIJ on it, then getting one of first 1300 made that was JDM with the Kanji day wheel would be the most sought after. But the question is if you already have a MIJ version, is it really wise to pay 50% over retail for one? which by the way doesn’t benefit from an international warranty. Anything goes wrong it needs to go back to Japan for service. I heard Seiko USA won’t even service a JDM model because the model number won’t be in their system.

[@garretthu2466]

@@polygoncoco I’m in the USA and I spoke to the service department here and they said they can take it in but it will need to go back to Japan.

[@josefelixmiguel9700]

I have it and It is very nice model.

[@pokie6087]

Awesome watch

[@waynesellers4078]

Love the look but not the price. I know it's limited edition but I'll see if there are any left in a year.

[@BraveBeaters]

As far as I understood the stocks are going fast

[@waynesellers4078]

@@BraveBeaters I noticed that after I posted but £350 is too much for me. If they go down in value on the used market I'll get one but they probably won't.

[@lulul]

i wish more divers had a bidirectional bezel. it's much more convenient to use but whenever i mention this in a watch related forum i geta lot of passionate answers like we're all going to drown at out desks is such a heresy were to happen.

[@vadimf8301]

*B E A U T I F U L* watch!

[@kentlim4416]

Besides the Japan made with Kanji day wheel, there is also a unique day wheel with Mandarin. I’ve got it during Shanghai Seiko launch.

[@BraveBeaters]

wow, so the days of the week are displayed in Mandarin? As Far as I see, weekend are mostly the same with Kanji

[@kentlim4416]

@@BraveBeaters yeap, the day wheel consist of dual language (English/Mandarin) 😊

[@auburnsenn2040]

Super clip.n thanks for sharing. Does the bezel got a "click" or not???

[@SeikoLeaks]

question: what does the Friday " day " character on the wheel of the jdm version look like? does it look like a little house 🏠 or does it look like 36 merged together ? thanks for the review 👍

[@BraveBeaters]

Kin-youbi house, yes :) a bit squeezed, but it's the house.

[@kobusvanrensburg4092]

Is it really that great? It's pretty but it sounds like 80% of it is hype.

[@BraveBeaters]

I'd say 50 hype, 50 watch :D

[@scarredhandsreviews]

We need a new Pogue ❤

[@BraveBeaters]

haha! I am pretty sure they will do it! the question is... for what price :D

[@ph69jbl]

@@BraveBeatersprice will play an important role in the minds of Seiko executives when planning the Pogue reissue. Is one of the most Iconic seikos that don’t have yet a proper reissue. I bet they will come up with a fairly accurate reissue (but thicker as the modern chrono calibers requires that) in a LE with a 3-4k Euro sticker price and a cheaper non LE reinterpretation (potentially with a solar caliber). Will see…

[@grpi8131]

Holy crap !

[@julianmoriati4682]

I really like it!

[@BraveBeaters]

Super cool watch!

[@theleastsignificantbit4794]

Despite a few moans and niggles, this is a home run. I’m so tired of Seiko spamming the SKX case shape. Hopefully we’ll get a faithful re-issue of one of the rally divers.

[@fungusfoong9080]

Yeah...me too - really sick of SKX spam cases.

[@justmeeagainn]

Bell bottom jeans, tie-dyed shirts and this watch. What are three things that should have stayed in the 60's?

[@pktsqr]

If I hadn't just bought the Timex 1972 World Time reissue, this would be really tempting. I mean, it's still tempting, but it would be kinda silly to have both... right?

[@sergiopuenteg3300]

Great video! And finally a proper recreation of a vintage model under £500, love the vintage feel of the design, the great lume and sits nicely on my small wrist. Got number 07638 🎉

[@Karl-hx6sw]

Q. How did you find out the production number for the date wheel in Kanji? I'm curious to know the numbers produced in each language

[@BraveBeaters]

Seiko forums :)

[@PineapplePizza1]

Are you able to fit any other straps on it?

[@BraveBeaters]

I just tried, totally missed to put some straps on it, in the video :( The spacing is pretty tight. it works mostly with thin rubbers or leather straps.

[@PineapplePizza1]

@@BraveBeaters Very helpful, thank you. It reminds me a lot of the Brew bracelets

[@Nightfury0695]

Tropic straps work well. Others maybe a tight fit.

[@Barnaby_bo]

Is sbsa the japanese version?

[@ph69jbl]

Yes

[@juniorjohnson5961]

What is a Kanji dial or date ?

[@Fernandoificati0n]

Days of the week in japanese

[@turnbasedtoddy7664]

I disagree with you on alot of your videos when it comes to homage watches and things like that, but you really do have some awesome camera work!

[@ph69jbl]

Homage, reissues, microbrands, reinterpretations, clones, shameless fakes…. i have issues only with the last two categories. For all the others there is a place imo on the watches market. To each their own. as long it is not a fake/clone … imo at least

[@GarbageMans2wheels]

🔥 🔥 🔥 wrist is on Bliss

[@DucNguyen-jy3gi]

I bought this one and realized it's not made in Japan! They say it's made in Hong Kong on the box

[@bavarianwolf3806]

i read that the bracelet of the 55th limited edition is not that good, very stiff and not so many fine adjustment.. so change the bracelet is neccesary?

[@Bear_Arms]

The mineral crystals ruin every Seiko 5 watch.

[@giezicontreras2552]

Reminds me of the Tissot sideral

[@Anirossa]

They seem to over value their brand lately. Sure they need to move up as no way they can stay the value king with whats around. But its dumb to pay more or less of a watch. Sure that is luxury, but could back it up with quality and not just being bent over and take it

[@Olaffen77]

Love it! 😍

[@MegaGman61]

Love it!

[@superdad4324]

Fab video! Personally, I did pre order. And love the outcome. My only moan is the crown. I am unable to handwind with it due to its size and position. Should I be super picky, the crystal could have a been a bit more domed but hey. They have nailed this one

[@Hornsvinet]

Too bad its so small :( I really like the look of it and I dont have huge wrist at all but just too small for me :(

[@lhommeaudacieux]

Help needed! I would love to buy this fantastic watch to go kitesurfing! But I am finding conflicting information whether the 10ATM rating is has would be enough for that! Most sources say it should be, but at the extreme you can have some very hard water impacts from several meters height when kitesurfing, similar to high board diving. Certainly enough to kill 5ATM watches. Does anybody have any experience with high impact water sports and 10ATM watches like this and knows how much of a risk there would be of this watch not making it??

[@flawedhypothesis]

A $300 vintage watch selling for $700.

[@BraveBeaters]

Exactly :))

[@k9teamzagrebskolazapse149]

Hew it love it and its yust diferent also with Milanes bracelet is totaly diferent and beutiful watch

[@runningawayvagabond5876]

This watch seems to be getting the influencer love right now but I just don't get it. It's fugly as hell.

[@pst9821]

Hand winding ?

[@PeepingTime]

👀

[@ermanjones7787]

I bought one solar watch after two years it died and can’t get it fixed. I paid 500. And will never buy one again

[@SilverBackELTorro]

Nice watch, and i will buy it, but what do you think of the Seiko srpk08. They are limited to 1968 pieces.

[@r06mmgt]

Uff

[@miked2662]

それはいいですね、僕は買いますよ。

[@undermuscled7381]

I like it all apart from the crown, recessed too much and fiddly to wind.

[@DzejWiJV]

What for you need diver bezel in watch with 100 WR 🤔🤦

[@ph69jbl]

Historically corect. Sports divers of 70m in the ‘70s had the friction bidirectional bezels

[@BraveBeaters]

Part of the 5 concept, 100m WR :)

[@DzejWiJV]

@@BraveBeaters would you take this watch under water?

[@ph69jbl]

@@DzejWiJVas long as I don’t monkey around with the crown I’d have no issues in getting this puppy wet