On the Wrist, from off the Cuff: Seiko Prospex - SPB143 (SBDC101), Still The Best $1000 Seiko?

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o Bottom-line - Even 3yrs later, the SPB143 still out Heritages similar micros and out (in-houses) similar priced Swiss divers
 Seiko’s in-house qualities packed into a Diver w/Presage-like fit and finish have combined to create a bit of a modern classic, to the point that some factory competitors have been able to launch entire brands quite successfully based off of homages dedicated to a genre reinvigorated by the release of this very model

[@wutang2549]

Got mine from my wife for my 32nd birthday and it is a blast. The movement is just 4+ sec a day, everything is perfect i just love it

[@RabbitWatchShop]

I purchased this a month after it was released - the SBDC101. Imported from Japan. I adored the looks so much. There’s been so many beautiful dive watches released since then, two of which I currently own: Tudor BB54 and Pelagos 39. Today, I still find it to be one of the most attractive dive watches. Unfortunately that’s where the positive ends for me. My unit was a complete dud. Misaligned pip, insert, and hands. Scratch on the clasp NIB. Crown was very gritty and wobbly. Dust under the crystal was visible to the naked eye. Most importantly, the movement, the 6R35, was out of spec - losing about 50 seconds daily. I repair watches, so I decided to fix it as opposed to sending it back to Japan. I aligned the insert and hands. Removed debris from on the dial and under the crystal. Lubricated the crown, resulting in a smoother action. Lastly, I regulated the movement within spec. Movement still had an unpredictable accuracy, but within spec. I sold it. Got most of my money back, since it was a MKI dial, a now semi-rare model. Thereafter, I get upset when I see this watch on social media. I wanted to love it. Unfortunately Seiko let me down. I’ll never consider this model or again.

[@Chris-de2qc]

Well you could have just got it warrantied

[@RabbitWatchShop]

@@Chris-de2qc I am an American. My variant was JDM, as mentioned. I contacted Seiko USA via message and phone, and both correspondents informed me the JDM watch has to go back to Japan for service. Shipping insured to Japan isn’t cheap. As mentioned, I repair watches. Hence to save time and money I fixed the watch myself… with the intent of keeping it. However, after my negative experience, I couldn’t bring myself to keep it.

[@flow2tech]

​@@RabbitWatchShopso crazy ..I ordered mine from gnomon watch.. My bezel alignment is bang on and i'm running about plus 7 seconds... I rotate watches regularly so for me it is acceptable.. I just love the way it looks tbh.

[@RabbitWatchShop]

@@flow2tech happy your unit is good. It is indeed a beautiful watch.

[@akthebeast23]

I had the same issue of +30 s/d so sent it to be regulated to my go to watch guy (Tempus watch mods) and he told me some of these movements are defective and are unable to be regulated effectively. I sent mine back under warranty and they replaced the movement and it’s been +5 since. I haven’t bothered getting it regulated since. I bought from Gnomon and I’m in the UK so wasn’t ideal but took similar time as sending a Tudor to Switzerland

[@NathanHassall]

That colorful background you use to showcase the watch during the discussion is really nice I like that!

[@thomashenning85]

Got it on my wrist at the Moment. Love it, by far my favorite watch

[@cityslacker6221]

I wear mine every other day. And your original video was the final review I watched that convinced me to pull the trigger back when this came out.

[@cityslacker6221]

I keep mine on the Uncle Seiko Tropical strap. I love the steel coating, but I just prefer this one on the tropical. And it fits my 17cm wrist perfectly.

[@daveLin104]

Excellent video and revisit :) love your videos I first watched your dresskx video and it sold me on it, and I still enjoy that watch. I love your video style and also that you interact with your viewers.

[@AverageBros]

I really appreciate that Dave 🙏

[@Jason-hv4eu]

Good video! This is one of my most worn as well👍🏻

[@briggm]

I also imported the SBDC101 from Japan. I've had it for about 6 months and as if right now, I can say that this is the one watch in my collection that I'll never part with. There are others I may always keep, but this one I'll -definitely- keep. It's a beautiful watch and the monochromatic colours mean it's supremely versatile, but there's also just something about how it wears which has me reaching for it regularly. Just shy of 14mm it's a fairly thick watch (like most Seikos) but you don't feel that thickness on the wrist. A lot of the height comes from the bezel, while the case itself sits surprisingly thin and flat. I can't argue with the hardening coating either, as half a year in I can't see a single scratch on it! And for a fairly utilitarian and toolish looking watch, if you catch it in the right light it can look quite elevated. Predictably I'm not a diver, but my SBDC101 has seen showers, baths, swimming pools and jacuzzis, with no issues whatsoever. The movement has been decent, at a guess I'd say about 7-8 seconds fast per day. Thankfully though it's been consistent with no wild fluctuations. If somebody was after just one really good watch that doesn't cost an arm and a leg, IMO this deserves to be in the conversation.

[@TheFuturisticVintage]

With the announcement of the refresh, I’m considering adding this old reference to my collection. Thanks for the vid!

[@AverageBros]

Good call, market prices should hit an all time low, once the revisions are available. Definitely catch one before they're announced discontinued, if they are anyway.

[@wjlevien]

Unless I can pull together the funds for an SJE093, this piece won't be leaving my collection any time soon. Side note: There's something about your reviewing style and presentation that I find to be very relaxing. Happy New Year!

[@sal1nger]

I have to admit that when this thing first came out I called it the poor man's SLA017, but like you said, over the years my opinion of it has grown, as really it's quite different from the SLA. The thicker, matte steel bezel gives it more of a rugged vintage look that I love. And I might even prefer the thicker indices on this one. Destined to be a classic in Seiko's formidable line up. Thanks for the re-examination.

[@alecjarnagin9041]

I love my SPB 143 (SBDC101 since I also ordered from Japan)! I have a pile of watches but there really is something to this magnificent and historical piece, which is why she sees a TON of wrist time. While the OEM bracelet is fine, I opted to order the Uncle Seiko (Strap) version with female lungs, larger taper and smaller clasp and much prefer that. That said, I often wear it on the Uncle Seiko (Strap) rubber GL-831 because it is insanely good (and of course it looks great on a NATO too). A very versatile watch and like you, I've had very good luck with my Seiko movements, especially when worn! That said, I would say the one mistake Seiko may have made with this watch was dropping to 3 Hz/70 hours power reserve. I never met anyone who complained about accuracy when they pick up a dead watch, but if you let this guy sit in the one position to kill 60+ hours power reserve, the accuracy slips (albeit not terribly on mine). If it was simply dead, you'd pick it up & wind it, and reset it - and the sweep would be better!

[@AcmeRocket]

One of my most worn. I agree, those who had bad experiences are the loudest, but a large percentage of Seiko internet whingers, have never even owned one, they are just whiney.

[@RabbitWatchShop]

I would accept my experience with this exact model was a negative exception; however, many purchased this watch after its release in 2020, and like me, they also received duds. Most of them had troublesome movements. Others had issues with the movement and other QC issues: misalignment, paint coming out of the insert for the markers, etc. For be fair, I also have two Tudor watches. Both of my units are perfect, but others have had issues with them, though.

[@WatchMalaya]

I love this piece so much that I own two of them SPB143 and SPB147. I’m a bracelet guy so got myself a Strapcode jubilee bracelet fixed onto the SPB147. I alternate between them for most of my wrist time. Excellent video, kudos!

[@righton1]

That’s a good call. I’ve been on the fence about getting the 147 to go with my 143. I loved both but went for the 143 at first.

[@daveLin104]

Do you have a preference I have the 143 and always think about the 147

[@WatchMalaya]

@@daveLin104 i’m a bracelet guy. When i first bought SPB147, it didn’t get much of my wrist time because it came in rubber. Since I put on a Strapcode jubilee to it, it spends as much wrist time as my SPB143 in OEM oyster. Which do i prefer between the two? I can’t answer this as they both have their unique features and individual attractions.

[@daveLin104]

@mohamadnizamothman1366 I nned to hold of the 147 ..... I like the original braclet very well balanced and suits the watch

[@R8Prototype]

Love this watch, finally got my hands on one of these last year and it's been great. Used to have an SBDC053 which i sold so I had to get a 62mas silhouette back into the collection. Not sure if I'll ever dabble into the higher end 62mas reissues as the proportions for the look are a lot more true to the original. Versus I quite like the proportions of these modern 53mas.

[@NicholasSpinelli-ej9gr]

Love it I think I want one

[@stanlob1223]

Love it !

[@A_Dude_And_His_Watch78]

I went with the SBDC051 because i thought it was better built. It was a little big so I flipped it. If it were 40mm like this one i would still like it better. The bezel was lacquer, the indices were applied and the lume was incredible. Also liked the arrow hour hand. I like this too but i just thought the 051 was unique but just too large at 43mm.

[@timemeasured9137]

Still one of the best Seiko divers of all time!!! One of my most worn watches for the past 2 years. It’s an outstanding everyday watch. I own the 143 and 213 respectively. The case design is one of the best in the industry. I have my eye in the JDM model SBDC163.

[@bogarbill6331]

Hoe is the 213? I’m thinking of bying one on chrono.. I already have the 143

[@timemeasured9137]

@@bogarbill6331 Greetings! The 213 is a great compliment to the 143. It's not as versatile for everyday use but The white/silver dial, blue coated bezel, blue seconds hand and minute track gives it a more refined look. It has a more sporty summer time vibe and it looks great on a blue rubber strap. I have mine on the Blue silicone strap for the willard and it looks Boss! Cheers mate.

[@bogarbill6331]

@@timemeasured9137 thanks man, I’m going to pull the trigger on that one now..cheers!

[@timemeasured9137]

@@bogarbill6331 Glad I could help!!!

[@tawny222]

Great review with details, Seiko’s best in terms of design, quality, finishing and at a good price point. I have a147J1 on my 6.5” wrist, it looks amazing and I won’t want to take it off😂. It blends well with bracelet or strap. I’m not a fan but I think the 62mas is among the best models imo. Thanks for sharing.

[@rbybcc]

Anche io ho un polso di 16.5 e da quando l'ho preso non riesco a mettere su altri orologi. Seiko avrà sicuramente qualche problema di controllo qualità , ma io riesco a perdonarlo. Certo è che solo riuscissero a sistemare un po' meglio il calibro non avrebbe avversari.

[@bogarbill6331]

My no. 1 watch. I have 1 Rolex, 3 Omega and 4 Tudor. With my Tudor BB58 this is my most worn watch

[@tanishqagrey]

Want to sell any? I’ll be interested

[@carlosraygoza9153]

Best honest review by far on this watch. I agree loudest people are the unhappy few. Also some people are unrealistic, they expect quality and performance of what $3k + watches offer on a $1k watch.

[@justmeeagainn]

Expecting a watch to tell the right time...some people are crazy!

[@ballsackschrader218]

​@justmeeagainn if you buy a mechanical over quartz, you don't really care about perfect time, let's be honest.

[@richydunzo]

whats the best place to buy in USA? Online and in store

[@Bonatno]

I traded in my spb051 for a spb313 that allowed me to purchase the 143 this Christmas. Can’t decide between the spb313 and the 143

[@daveLin104]

What you are not sure what to buy, 313 or 143 ?

[@Bonatno]

@@daveLin104 can’t decide what to wear, I bought them both in a span of 4 days.

[@daveLin104]

@Bonatno oh get you :) the 313 is more wearable id say but less versatile

[@JesseLeePeterson9]

The jdm ones are about half price on chrono24, any downsides?

[@typebflieger]

I’ve owned a dozen Seiko’s in different price ranges, including some vintage and neo-vintage, but mostly modern. Not a single one of them has let me down on alignment, durability, or accuracy. I know people who have had issues with movement accuracy, but that was fixed by regulation. I tend to hear more complaints about specs and QC from people who don’t own a Seiko than from owners.

[@jimclip2012]

Love mine, just wish it was more like 12mm thick instead of nearly 14mm (specs say 13.2 but I measure ~ 13.8).

[@maitrehg]

To be honest, you always have to remove the thickness of the domed crystal because it doesn't affect at all how comfortable the watch is or not.

[@Al_Prazolam]

Try it on a 20 to 16mm taper straight end link oyster style. (i.e. - Long Island Watch) It solves the issue you mention of the fitted, protruding end link bracelet "not flowing" well into the case, and in my opinion the straight end link style really suits the watch's vintage aesthetic.

[@AverageBros]

I'm actually fine with the bracelet, it's a point for improvement yes, but one I can totally live with

[@maitrehg]

I prefer my watches to be completely original. That's part of the Seiko's charm. And honestly, this one isn't that bad.

[@theenavybluemonster]

Still one of the most beautiful Seiko divers. I was torn between this one and the SPB213 for many many months. Ended up getting the SPB213 as I got the silver surfer turtle that has a similar dial color to this model. Hoping they use this dial color in an SJE version of the MM200 in 2024. Please don’t put that date at 430.

[@AMGJason]

I still have immense pleasure and satisfaction, wearing it as my weekend or casual watch. I don't feel like I need to upgrade to a BB58 or equivalent or lust after more refined offerings.

[@UTOOOOOOOY]

Wearing mine right now which has the most awful accuracy deviation of -40 to +40 AFTER Seiko Warranty :(

[@AcmeRocket]

Mine is ~ +- 4 spd

[@maitrehg]

Mine is + 12. Acceptable considering it's in the PLUS.

[@juniorjohnson5961]

Do they still make these ? Happy New Year 🎉

[@juniorjohnson5961]

Would have been nice to see it on the Montreux strap .

[@ariffsukimin3275]

Fits the criteria for the one piece collection

[@maitrehg]

The bracelet and precision keep it from carrying that title for me.

[@Xs395]

Sponsor went hard on the monopoly board game title card design

[@d.kashani]

My favorite watch. Mine runs at +2 seconds consistently. I love it so much that I bought the sje093 but not as a replacement because they’re very different even though they share the same dna. The only downside imo is the bracelet. Too thick and chunky, doesn’t taper enough, useless divers extension, and the endlinks don’t match the case. Fortunately It looks better on just about any strap especially natos and Erika’s MN.

[@leonhuang4988]

2 things I don't like about this watch: the bracelet (especially the end links) and the accuracy of the 6r35 movement (mine gains nearly 20 seconds per day)

[@maitrehg]

Indeed, these are its two weak points. That's why it couldn't be my only watch.

[@maze8432]

I am going to buy this watch at a local juweler in my town. The watch they are selling is perfect aligned, so this is good. But the only downside for me is. That the watch costs 1300 euro, And im getting the same movement as a Sports 5 watch?! Also the saffier, from a certain angle, the dial is no longer visible. And also the bracelet it is wobbly and rattles, Seiko really need to upgrade their bracelets! For the money of 1300 euro im expecting more. But it is really a good looking watch. But im still considering the MM200 over the SPB143 maybe....

[@AverageBros]

Seiko 5's have 4R movements, this has a 6R

[@maze8432]

@@AverageBros sorry I mean low beat

[@maitrehg]

The 143 is a futur classic. The MM 200 is not. But buy what you really like.

[@mjdm1925]

That’s what she said

[@AndreAndre-yd5gw]

Being a very cheap guy, I built myself this exact seiko model. It's my work watch.

[@nedflanders3769]

I had one of these and it would run- 10 spd one day and +40 the next. Sold it.it’s too bad because it’s an awesome looking watch. Just a shitty movement. Seiko needs to step up their movement game.

[@lucacadianalbert]

Title of this video - did you mean "still the BEST $1000 Seiko Diver?"

[@AverageBros]

Character limitations, so if I could fit, would've been that or "Still THE $1000 Seiko Diver to have?" I dunno, maybe I'll rework and remove the Diver part to fit the Best.

[@malzahar33]

Spb297 here. Worn every day even if the bezel is not that well aligned and precision is very meh

[@tankt13]

Fallen Titan considers this watch as well as all of Seiko’s reissues “soulless” because it doesn’t have its “name” on the dial. But yet his blue Willard is one of his favorite watches.

[@jazzjack665]

1000 USD + for 3Hz caliber? No thanks. We have Miyota 9xxx in this world already

[@maitrehg]

A watch is more than the sum of its parts. As a whole, this Seiko is truly special and very few watches can compete with it at this price. This watch is a futur classic.

[@the79D37]

@@maitrehgsaw many complains about build quality and they really exist. It totally destroys the whole impression about this watch, sorry. In addition, yeah, 3Hz movement feels kind of cheap

[@maitrehg]

@@the79D37 I own the watch and for me its bracelet and its movement are its weaknesses. But there is something intangible about this Seiko that makes it truly special. Definitely a future classic !

[@panospeter_pan4257]

Almost bought the spb147 for 700$ brand new yesterday. Believe it or not,the 6r35 is a crappie movement and I couldn't justify the money and quality when you can buy a much better specced watch fron a microbrand for less money. So no.seiko is over for me.

[@tomislavm2873]

you can buy quartz and save a lot of money if the accuracy is your thing.

[@panospeter_pan4257]

​@tomislavm2873 no accuracy is not my main thing.but when u pay 4 digit numbers you expect something good right?I ve seen seikos at the 2000 euros loosing 20 seconds per day.is that acceptable? If accuracy doesn't matter to seiko ,they should throw the spring drive movements and put inside the 6r35s. 😅 My mojito presage keeps amazing time. The 4r is much more stable than the 6r.

[@tomislavm2873]

@@panospeter_pan4257 Well, a lot of us still wearing Seiko, so probably it's acceptable hehe

[@daveLin104]

I would love to buy microbrand or ali E watch I know you get more for your money but I just can't do it. I want a known brand on the dial might juat be me

[@NathanHassall]

That colorful background you use to showcase the watch during the discussion is really nice I like that!