Rolex vs Grand Seiko - The Ultimate Decision

This week we're talking about Rolex's new Datejust dials and how they compare to those of Grand Seiko. Don't forget to let us know what you thought in the comments, and subscribe if you want to see more! You be the judge: Rolex vs Grand Seiko - The Ultimate Decision
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[@watchfinder]

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[@nepats3669]

The ultimate decider is that you can walk into a Grand Seiko AD and actually purchase a watch that day. Try that with Rolex and let me know how it goes!

[@chasem3549]

The numbers guy in me is still gravitating towards the rolex. Upwards value post AD purchase. Catch is the years long waitlist. I want the snowflake and the aqua terra world timer but the depreciation hit off an AD is holding me back.

[@galatians22122]

Don't For Get 1/2 or even 1/4 The Price! Love My Snowflake!

[@TechPanzer]

@@chasem3549 There's no depreciation if you don't sell it

[@galatians22122]

@@TechPanzer I actually wear my watches, you know the reason for a watch. TO WEAR IT!

[@danielcanizales731]

Perfectly Said

[@thehrethgir679]

I've never seen either dial in person, but from pics, the Grand Seiko dials blow the Rolex dials out of the water. The texture they have is so much more interesting that lasered dope leaves.

[@TheRealMafoo]

I have seen both in person, you're assessment still holds true.

[@evano8312]

Having seen both the Rolex with no AR are kinda too reflectivey with the crystal

[@zzemi99]

I saw it in person. Blows it out of the water and far from Earth.

[@stevenwang7850]

The movements are very different as well.

[@jamesrobert4106]

Rolex dope leaves has a certain ring to it. 😂😂😂

[@jonk3470]

I bought a GS Toji SBGE269 (winter solstice) about 6 weeks ago. It is my first "high end" watch, but is my 10th watch in my collection. The first time I wore it out, we visited some friends at their home for dinner. The light was low, and from 15 feet across the room my friend (a watch novice) noticed how amazing it was. The Zaratsu polishing is amazing in low light, the dial is perfect, and the spring drive movement is mesmerizing. It flies under the radar in the right way, and has a human touch to the design that you can only get from Japan. It doesn't ask for attention, but receives it in spite of that. While Rolex are great financial investment pieces, that's not what a watch is for me, and Grand Seiko has it right.

[@iangeorge8177]

I'm impressed with both Grand Seiko and Rolex. For me there is a huge difference though - Grand Seiko are bought by those that appreciate their fine design and attention to detail, and when worn they discreetly slide under the sleeve. Rolex are bought as a status symbol and as a speculative investment and are either worn boldly or hidden away in a safe. I know that's a bit of a generalisation, but I'd suggest it isn't too far from the mark. The other key difference of course is availability - I can walk into a Grand Seiko dealership and walk out with one on my wrist. Even if I wanted a Rolex, I can't and at best have to go through a lengthy and expensive pantomime to buy one. And I'm too old to play those games.

[@ssattanen]

Very well said. Thats how it is. No body sees grand seiko in your wrist, but rolex will be always noted.

[@JohnBuckmaster-sw3wm]

I bought one from both of these brands in the last year or so… I got rid of the grand Seiko. I did not enjoy the wearing experience. I’m a bracelet guy occasionally wearing leather straps on my watches… And the grand Seiko bracelets are not what they should be at this price point IMO..

[@terry8588]

Grand Seiko's dials are works of art. Once you own them, you just keep looking at the watch and how beautiful they are.

[@Endureromex]

It's hard for many people, but GS is superior to Rolex. The main difference regarding the dial is that GS creates art, Rolex decorates.

[@TheBrimic]

Grand Seiko still needs to up the quality of their bracelets and claps to match the incredible dials and movements.

[@garyboyle695]

@@TheBrimic Really, Rolex bracelets don't age well. They can rattle like hell. Check out watch restoration videos to see for yourself.

[@avocadomann2373]

@@garyboyle695 I agree in regards to the older versions. The current bracelets feel so well built it’s really hard for me to imagine that they will some day rattle like the older versions. Only time will tell

[@kelechinobi3085]

@@avocadomann2373 New Rolex bracelets are heavy! Older bracelets rattled but were IMHO more comfortable. GS bracelet finish beats Rolex, including the way the links are individually scalloped. The one area a Rolex bracelet beats GS is the clasp and that’s because GS chose not to build large clasps. I personally prefer the smaller clasp but then I managed a perfect fit on my one GS bracelet.

[@puruttyaaa]

@@TheBrimic leather straps?

[@galatians22122]

Here is the Difference: Hey everyone look at my Rolex, compare that to "Look at my Grand Seiko" and you can't take "YOUR" eyes off that Dial and on top of that the smooth sweep of the Spring Drive. Sold My Sub and Bought 3 Spring Drives, that's right 3 For the Hyped Value of the Sub. The Spring Drive is far and above A Higher Quality, more efficient Movement.

[@martinott638]

.....as well I sold a five digits sub kermit and a gmt. I got 20.000 and made 11.500 out of that deal...and purchased a white birch and a minamo lake suwa. These both watches are great and the quality in general is much better. And remaining 2500.

[@user-eb7ns2or1j]

I don’t think grand seiko is superior than Rolex because there are some designs of grand seikos that are ugly like one of the chronograph

[@Arseization]

@@user-eb7ns2or1j That is fine but superiority is not measured by your taste, that is simply your taste. And yes, the chronos are really....something else...

[@tab3Gator]

@@user-eb7ns2or1j and Rolex has ugly watches too. Air King, the Palm, and most of the Celini line.

[@zsfreestyles2007]

Seiko is just good rolex is a cumshot to the face

[@bbwt9991]

What is the most succinct way I can put this? OK. Rolex a €2,000 watch for €9,000. Grand Seiko a €9,000 watch.....for €9,000.

[@singaporewatchcollector6262]

You immediately lose half the value of a GS. LOL

[@hugohernandez3651]

And yet...if you don't like that $9K Rolex, you can sell it for $10K. If you don't like that $9K GS, you will be lucky if you get $7K for it.

[@Treviscoe]

@@hugohernandez3651 Probably true, and that's one of the main reasons people buy Rolexes - they hold their value. I still prefer Grand Seiko though.

[@hugohernandez3651]

@@Treviscoe I have never bought a watch as an investment and never will. However, taste changes and the hobby evolves, so I hate to lose money when selling a watch, so for me paying full retail for a GS is as bad as paying over retail for a Rolex. It simply doesn't make any sense. Between these two watches I would choose the GS as well.

[@bbwt9991]

@@hugohernandez3651 I don't buy watches for financial reasons. I can invest my money for that. Most Rolexes are kept in safe deposit boxes because owners are afraid it will pick up a scratch and lose value. That's not watch collecting, it's investment, and there are far better ways to invest money than buying a Rolex. If one has to seriously worry about not losing the money one spent, they definitely should stay away from Rolex! I don't mind if my GS loses money, though my own limited edition is worth quite a lot more than I paid. I do wear it though, I'm not afraid if it gets a nick, I enjoy wearing it, not taking it out to just wind it occasionally.

[@jeremycorrao]

That palm dial Rolex is one of the ugliest things I've ever saw. Why they would put that on a watch dial is beyond me.

[@sakikogookheng]

You hit the nail on the head with the Rolex, evil laser point, They looked at GS, saw that their nature themed watches were popular, so tried to emulate it; only they're so out out touch. They went into the lab, behind their retina scanning volt door, and took a look at a computer generated palm leaf. Then, they went to their femtosecond laser and etched an AI designed dial into mass production, using their automated factories. They did it, yes, a nature themed watch - but it completely defeats the object. Btw... this was so funny to watch! I really enjoy this conversational setup for the Decider series, as well as how well informed and well-thought your opinions are.

[@fabreezethefaintinggoat5484]

It s hard but gs may need to be smaller and slimmer,

[@sakikogookheng]

@@fabreezethefaintinggoat5484 yeah, some can definitely be on the tubby side. Take a look at the sbgk005 though! That manual wind beauty is incredibly thin, so there's hope yet :)

[@jan.lotvall]

I have held that palm datejust in my hand, it it did NOT make me tick. Whereas the GS dials do. ABSOLUTELY AMAZING, especially the seasons

[@1shitin]

Yeah, I wonder why is is called the "Weedjust" dial. GS draws inspiration from nature. Rolex consults with Lucy in the Sky? For me, the single biggest difference is texture, and there is not a laser out there that can create nuances and the slight variations and imperfections present in nature. GS wins hands-down (yes, they really do use human hands to build the dial and put the watches together).

[@Cinoism]

@@fabreezethefaintinggoat5484 There are slimmer GS. Manual winding is sub 10mm. GS with only date complication is only 11-12mm. However, most popular GS are their Spring Drive, Evolution 9 models, which are made to be a tool watch, robust and thick.

[@faisalingalong]

As the owner of both brands, I’ve got to say I would hand it to Grand Seiko for the dial work pretty much every time.

[@user-zr4sj2ll5q]

What about as a watch in general?

[@Mysteryboy0007]

completely agree... only thing is rolex is the whole package for me.... nice case, dial, AND awesome bracelet. Grand seiko bracelet ugly af. Rolex bracelet refined and beautiful 8/10. GS bracelet 4/10.

[@doctorpanigrahi9975]

​@@user-zr4sj2ll5q The movement of Grand Seiko is better..

[@rodsalvador3608]

OK here's the difference. Palms and meteorites have nothing to do with Switzerland or Hans Wilsdorf. The snowflake, four seasons, etc. are tributes to Japan and their whole cultural awareness of man's place in nature. It's commerce vs. nature, in a way.

[@Jaaaa315]

I'm late, but oh well. I disagree. I don't think it's the motive, I think it's the execution. The Rolex palm leaves look incredibly kitsch to me, like they cropped out a magazine cover. It would look just as bad if it was japanese maple leaves on a GS...

[@livinginthisgalaxy7961]

Idk. It is possible meteorites hit Switzerland...

[@inscrutablechicken]

Regardless of whether you like the pattern or not, a "laser-etched" anything just doesn't say luxury to me - it's fast, cheap and easily replicable.

[@falkenvir]

agreed, Rolex dial seems more souless... it's nice and colorful but there's just that.

[@rukasusan]

Whenever I see a GS on someone’s wrist, I know it’s real. Whenever I see a Rolex on someone’s wrist, I always wonder if it’s real or fake. Personally, I prefer GS watches as they’re almost impossible to replicate and fake. It’s not financially feasible for rep factories to attempt spring drive, hi-beat, and zaratsu polishing. As covered previously on this channel (Rolex Daytona Panda), Rolex replicas have gotten soooo good that fakes have become indistinguishable to the naked eye. That’s right. $800 counterfeit Noob Daytona looks just as good as a 30k genuine one. This is a huge hit for brand equity, and they should start getting tougher with counterfeiters. But perhaps it’s too late.

[@BabyJesus66]

Rolex should start doing exhibition case backs so it's easier to spot a fake by the movement. That seems to be the only place the fakes are lacking... but getting very close. Rolex doesn't do anything too exceptional with their watches so they're probably much easier to fake than other brands with more decorated movements and better dials like GS.

[@humblewiz4953]

Because no one wants fake of GS 🤣

[@humblewiz4953]

@@BabyJesus66 💯💯💯

[@diavalus]

@Nine Oh Seven That's true, the movement in a Breitling SOH2 is better decorated than in a Daytona.

[@SillytanN]

@@humblewiz4953 LOL not many even actually own a real one

[@Madster_NL]

Bought a Snowflake a few months ago. Absolutely loving it. The finish and accuracy is on another level compared to Rolex.

[@galatians22122]

I agree, I sold a Sub to Buy my snowflake with Over $6000 still in my Pocket!

[@jswede1]

@@galatians22122 hahaha. I got a snowflake and then sold my sub…. Only too early!! Did not make $6k - 🤬🤬🤬🤣

[@maximilianmohre1886]

I love GS and I do agree that the finishing is amazing but comparing spring drive (Quarz contolled) to rolex's mechanical movements in accuracy is not a fair comparison

[@geraldbrienza4474]

@@galatians22122 : try selling your snowflake to buy a Rolex and you’ll be out $12,000.

[@galatians22122]

@@geraldbrienza4474 you still don't get it I don't buy watches to sell them I buy them are you ready for this? To wear them. I just don't get it why buy an overpriced name? Rolex is at best a $5,000 watch

[@darrenaquilina1403]

The GS blows the paint off the Rolex in every aspect. Movement, finish under macro, dial, looks and what not. Both are robust on the same level, only area Rolex is slightly better is in the bracelet, which is nothing…

[@kristiangustafson4130]

And "brand equity". GS is the afficianados' watch, Rolex is the rich punter's watch.

[@piertechinc]

@@kristiangustafson4130 And Rolex appreciates in most cases where GS depreciates.

[@BobbyDazzler888]

@@piertechinc Meh. Invest elsewhere. Buy a watch to wear and express yourself

[@piertechinc]

The saying goes." You buy a Rolex to impress others, and you buy a GS to impress yourself"!!

[@Astragoth2]

I bought a gmt GS in 2018. SBGJ201. I was looking for a different dial, but I was able to visit an event where they had several different models. I saw the white mt iwate dial and i was ab-so-lu-te-ly smitten. What a dial!! Bought it on the spot, never regretted it. Mt Iwate dials are AWESOME.

[@AISkillBoost]

Yeah. Why the hate on Mount Iwate dails. They are exceptional!

[@mattc3929]

Truth is GS make the better watch and in Spring Drive they achieved the ultimate goal of combining perfect accuracy with automatic power. BUT Rolex is Rolex and everyone including non watch people ( lets call them muggles) wants one.

[@calindor19]

When you sell you gs seond hand marker is horroble😅

[@akasnoopyking]

“Palm in the corner and parquet floor” best watch joke I’ve heard in a while!😄😆😂😅

[@JTAK884]

Serious question: What year was the last time a regular guy could walk into a Rolex Boutique or AD and purchase a Rolex with cash or card (mens models)? No history with the brand or AD.

[@nepats3669]

Late 2015 or early 2016. Walked into an AD at a local casino and they had an entire case full of stainless models of your choosing.

[@donkykon2094]

3 years ago

[@barfymann362]

4 years ago, I was at the Dubai Airport and there is a Rolex AD/Boutique there. They had a Submariner, Yacht Master, and Platinum Daytona in stock. However, at that time, even at retail - I couldn't have been able to afford one as I was still a student.

[@2handstony935]

In the Uk 2014 they started to thin out, late 2016 above retail on the grey market.

[@dennisbroekhoven6367]

Thats simple 1962

[@adityasambhare]

Grand Seiko dials somehow seem rooted in their culture. It is hard to imagine them being anything other than Japanese.

[@Knys]

Don't worry there are enough seasons in a year for them to keep going with new collections. (There are several subdivisions of the four seasons in Japan you can check online)

[@Semper_Iratus]

Rolex doesn’t want your money, just ask them.

[@seanbirtwistle649]

When I was young I saw all the rolex sponsored sporting events, discovered they were very expensive, and equated them to something like an expensive set of dress shoes. Wind the clock forward and now that I've seen the types of watches you can collect, rolex reminds me of a pricey pair of Nike

[@jeffreyb.1657]

GS blows Rolex out of the water. Have an exp2 42mm and sbgj255. R: +1.8s/day GS: +1.1s/week Both are within spec.... One is better to my mind. Service. Personal experience is the GS is about 1/3 the price and seems better made in general based on prior pieces. Really. My favorite is the family member gifted a quartz rolex with a 700 dollar service charge...not even sure how to think about that one. Battery and seal checks/replacement.... That is super cheap if GS and quartz (the 9F is perhaps unfair to compare to as it has a super clever sealed system good for 50 years...maybe in 50 years it will be 600 to service too). Case finishing: GS>>>>R Hands: GS????R Bracelet feel GS. Clasp usability/microadjust R. Bulkiness of clasp: R. Clasp elegance/looks/usabilty once adjusted: GS. Getting a Rolex right now is just silly and borders to me on the unethical in the cases I've dealt with....I don't plan to participate in the elitist exercise Rolex calls sales. Frankly, a Rolex sub is a 3000 dollar watch. Period. GMT2 master 3500. More than that is just silly and they lack the quality to justify more than these number in 4/2022. Lots and lots of other brands now are as good or better than Rolex for less....GS, The Citizen, to me Christopher Ward and Farer (really, I know they are generic movements but if you hold them in hand, they are better made than rolex). Etc. I think Ellen Degeneris has over 20 Rolex watches - and if she walked into an AD could get 10 more tomorrow. I hard working professional cannot get one....and that is to me damning of Rolex as a brand. It is shameful. It is, to me, wrong.

[@evh4611]

Grand Seiko SHOULD ABSOLUTELY start adding micro adjustment clasps

[@samfallow18]

For me it's GS all the way. Stylish, elegant, beautiful. The Rolex palm motif looks like it should have an image of Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson peering through the fronds. Great video, chaps. Love the humour.

[@tonygluk1]

I love you guys. You're hella funny, and this podcast is a perfect thing to cheer me up when I work late at night.

[@pranavkamath4329]

GS feels like a work of art, and the reason you own one is because of what it is as an object, as a machine. Modern Rolex feels like a gilded business card, something you own because of the name on the dial. This isn’t entirely Rolex’s fault, but they’re leaning into it quite a bit.

[@jamesbowie6925]

Those Rolex dials are pathetically cheap looking, the GS has quality all over it😊

[@MikeyAnalog]

Rolex is what you wear if you want to impress others. Grand Seiko is what you wear if you want to impress yourself.

[@jlg395]

Best episode ever on this channel. It's much better to hear Andrew play off of someone as opposed to being snarky for ten minutes.

[@ohroonoko]

Proud owner of 2 Grand Seikos. An original Snowflake (SBGA011) and a steel white dial Hi Beat (SBGH-001) both original versions (when SEIKO logo was still on the dials). I would love to have a couple of Rolexes, but I would never trade my Grand Seikos for Rolexes.

[@bali_imagery]

GS for me. The dial is stunning. Especially the spring drive movement is just amazing. Can’t get enough looking at that second hand sweeps.

[@champstation143]

So I have to say sure the Datejust dials are not as amazing as the GS dials but the new palm dial is really amazing. At a glance it is just a dark green dial, just when you put more attention to it you noticed the palm motif.

[@humanitech]

Brand names aside ... I've always preferred Grand Seiko dial designs ...except the inclusion of the marmite 50/50 power reserve indicators ...which I'd prefer to always be on the back lol

[@mezcalycafe8702]

I want both , have neither . The GS seems attainable for a newbie in the game

[@JonBonesteel]

Short Hills mall NJ, USA. Rolex AD has velvet ropes blocking entrance and no watches to sell. Omega AD next door welcomes you in and has plenty of stock. This is all you need know about Rolex. Buy the GS.

[@mikeus77]

It's all subjective. For my money -names aside- Rolex has the more attractive case+bracelet design AND more tasteful dial decoration, IMO. On the other hand, GS completely outclasses Rolex in dial design and options. Again, my opinion :)

[@jjlad5037]

Rolex is the Cadillac of watches....and that's not a compliment.

[@ChaiNinja]

The Rolex dails look horrific. They look like wallpapers for your restroom.

[@anthonystevens8683]

It's always good to hear the cracking banter between the talking microphones. As for Rolex dials v GS, I'd call it a draw (I'm perched on the fence on this one) as they are so different. The Rolex dials are more clinical in the execution (thinking lasers and a certain old Bond film here) compare to the more organic implementation (thinking about working on that allotment patch in the freezing winter) by GS. Almost like comparing an old film Leica M camera to a smartphone camera, they are so different but both great at what they do.

[@richardtan322]

Everyone works hard for their money and want to reward oneself with the things they love. Buying watches is one of them and it has to be a memorable and unique experience. Unfortunately this is not happening with Rolex.

[@waggadorn]

My seiko samurai manta ray takes me to the depths of the ocean. Even that seiko dial has feeling and beauty

[@florinesq]

The perfect combo for me would be a GS and a Zenith. You can have them both for the price of a Rolex Daytona.

[@csanadbarczy9153]

Rolex is the SWATCH of premium watches at this point. Why bother?

[@danielcanizales731]

I'd like to own the grand seiko snowflake spring drive and the rolex explorer 36mm

[@terrysky83]

Grand Seiko most definitely. Every GS watch carries the passion and soul of its creators. Rolex is just a status symbol

[@robertstancer4469]

Seiko is the new kid on the block. It has to earn its position in the Pantheon of watches which Rolex has already done. Isn't if funny how every watch is gauged by Rolex.

[@wensonchang6077]

@@robertstancer4469 did you just say Seiko is the new kid on the block? not 100% sure but seiko is older than rolex. Grand Seiko is younger than rolex but even then, they've been around for 60+ years

[@AVguitarchannel]

Agree 100%

[@SillytanN]

@@wensonchang6077 imagine being unpopular for 60 years lol

[@robertstancer4469]

Absolute nonsense. Japan is the last place you'll find passion and soul. What you will find is imitators trying to copy other peoples' work and give it good marketing. Just look at their car builders if you want an example. Nissan or Ferrari?, Toyota or Maserati? NO, NO, All we need to do is change the brand name like Lexus or Infinity. Yes, that's it, call it Grand Seiko, that'll stun 'em.

[@Aladdin139]

Hitler will buy Rolex , while Einstein will buy GS , u got what i mean ??!

[@singaporewatchcollector6262]

Einstein likes losing money?

[@wpi6705]

I really dont "got " what u mean

[@chuffmeister1130]

The background music reminds me of *Dankpods* mate. Been listening to it through the freakish ears on a stand with the huh duh six hungeos from ol mate senny!

[@SuperSuperAllons93]

It's funny that you joke about the sparsity of Rolexes at ADs when you're part of the problem

[@donkykon2094]

well said, grey market sellers are the ones to drive up the price

[@callmedru]

Hah! Been saying that for years

[@RobertOrtiz1015]

Great video format! The GS blue with the ocean… its just stunning! I wouldn’t wear them palms at any price hahaha

[@George.___]

🤣🤣😂 the CEO Laser James Bond reference got me!!

[@kyle_vr]

For a 16cm (6.3") wrist circumference: 34,36 or 39mm OP? About 49.5mm across.

[@Atombender]

Grand Seiko to buy. Rolex to sell.

[@Tockahontas]

When they finally figure out how to make a nice looking, urban bracelet that gets thinner from lug to clasp, we will have a game changer in the watch market.

[@gmshadowtraders]

I don't think it will ever happen. The Japanese have been paid off by the Swiss to never come out with good bracelets, or to make thinner dive watches. If they did it would be game over.

[@ShamrockRagEll]

@@gmshadowtraders I guess you are joking, or is there a story one must know?

[@gmshadowtraders]

@@ShamrockRagEll I can tell you this, and then my lips are sealed. It's similar to military operations, like black ops or other clandestine operations. Anything that might be traced back, has to be destroyed. So no, there is no 'story'. It makes sense to me, the evidence on the ground and the logical conclusion all lines up. This is very shady business by everyone involved. Rolex have a cut-throat AD structure, as I'm sure you know. Don't you think they would try to attempt the same with their competitors... lol they should make a movie about it, cool shit bro.

[@JTadeo128]

Great format. Just show the watches being discussed, don't need to see who is talking! Nice

[@alejandropoblete31]

forget about the watches and focus about the quality of this video, is just amazing. congratulations

[@mrgee007]

It’s thing you notice a few mins in is that your shown Rolex rendered images but real filmed Grand Seiko images

[@geno816]

I think Grand Seiko (GS) > Rolex. Most wouldn't admit that because of the name. But I can see GS become an equal if not better name than Rolex in a few years.

[@alext2933]

Really enjoyed the banter. The car impression was a particular highlight. Great watch content too incidentally. :0)

[@evil_inside1332]

Key difference: Rolex is a symbol of Status, while Grand Seiko is a symbol of Class

[@j.p.9522]

The green branched Rolex dial looks horrible. Not subtle, really busy and distracting.

[@smitty4ut]

I actually have two GS, a SBGA211 Snowflake & SBGE255 GMT in blue. I definitely wear the GMT more. It is much more of an EDC. I also know when some asks me about my watch, that they are probably a watch person. Other wise it just flies under the radar. Also I don't worry about someone trying to cut off my hand to get it. Although I would like to get an Explorer someday. Last but not least, I paid below retail for both new.

[@martinott638]

....unfortunately you could get cut of your hand with a Rolex Fake as well

[@brianhilsden2880]

Palm dials? By the time you get one, it’ll have coconuts on it😂

[@irisfailsafe]

The palm dial Rolex is for the 59 y/o man who goes to the Caribbean with his new 23 y/o “girlfriend” and matches the watch to the shirt

[@lafireteamplx3400]

True, but I would love a 23 year old girlfriend hehehe

[@TonboIV]

That palm motif does look a bit like an office plant. Like a plastic office plant...

[@raredanceclassics]

The simplest decider of all: I can get a Grand Seiko and actually be treated like a customer. Rolex and its dealers are disgusting and fully bought into the hypebeast cancer of social media.

[@PaperGrape]

This is simple. All other things considered, a Grand Seiko - ANY Grand Seiko - is in no way inferior to any Rolex of similar standing, in regards to horology, materials, and design. In fact, in regards to horology, Grand Seiko simply has the upper hand. I don't need to brag. I want a superior time-piece and work of art for myself, not for other folks' peepers. It's Grand Seiko.

[@tar1895]

In my experience.Rolex movements have gone off in the last few years . The accuracy isn’t as claimed.

[@timchan334]

You sure? All my rolex are fine

[@tar1895]

@@timchan334 a day date purchased this year runs over 5 seconds a day fast

[@TheCoolkriss]

Grand Seiko any day over those new Rolex dials. The meteorite Daytona however, I do like. But not tha plastic strap. Give it a proper bracelet (in white gold like the case if you must) and I'd get behind that.

[@OuijTube]

The palm-dial Rolex is a Hawaiian shirt at a garden party where everyone else is wearing blazers

[@charredhusk]

If you gave me all the money in the world and let me loose on any watches I wanted, I would have several Grand Seikos, and probably still wouldn’t get a Rolex, besides an Explorer II. That is me though. I have every intention to get a Grand Seiko in the future already, but the hype of Rolex kind of takes away from the nice points of their watches to me. They started as a tool watch, and still largely carry that style, so they lose that appeal to me when they are hyped as luxury items into oblivion. Grand Seiko presents their watches as either luxury, or art. They suit that presentation more to me at the moment. That might change with time though.

[@mrgadget4863]

Maybe Rolex want s us to think of expensive watches as fashion pieces. I think the fascination with the palm dial will wear off soon. It has no long term quality, which teh Grand Seiko dials have.

[@teslapete4461]

I bought my SBGA407 Skyflake first...now I share wrist space with a Palm motif

[@stevelufc64]

My 2 pence on this is GS dails seam to provoke real emotion where as the palm leaf Rolex looks a bit tacky just my opinion

[@desertoctane6444]

ROLEX is comig for Gs but is EONS away. That palm dial ON THE Rolex is utterly ATROCIOUS.

[@sylinmino]

Hey y'all! Love the series! Correction: 904L steel is NOT harder than 316L steel. In fact, it's the opposite--904L steel is softer, but the tradeoff is that it is more corrosion resistant and has a brighter shine because of more chromium. New question: Cartier is such a big player in the Swiss watch market share (3rd biggest behind Rolex and Omega), but they're not talked about nearly as often amongst watch enthusiasts. For example, you even have pieces like the Ballon Bleu which is one of the best selling watches around, and yet watch enthusiasts seem to never talk about it. What do you think they would have to do to enter that conversation more frequently?

[@lifeislikeabrokenpencil8796]

They would have to go from a luxury product brand to a watch only brand. Too much too lose, too little too gain. I agree, beautiful watches, I own a Vermeil Must for nearly thirty years, still so elegant. Although looks very small compared to modern watches.

[@keilwerth04038]

I see the exact thing you mentioned about Rolex dials- the "coldness" and perfection of machine made object- in Montblanc limited edition pens. Years ago they used to be really beautifully made by craftsman and they had something special in them. Now they just look like Chinese fakes, cold, perfect and not very attractive. It's hard to quantify this feeling, but it's pretty obvious once you start noticing it. Those Rolex dials are not even in the same category of attractiveness as the Grand Seiko ones.

[@AkashTheboss]

GS > Rolex. Glass is Glass and Glass Breaks.

[@richpollock383]

I would guess, that since Rolex was really a marketing agency for a long time before it became a real watch making company [something that many forget], that they are doing this only to peddle more watches. Yet another weeze to pull the punters. If it requires that they give the impression that it is art like Grand Seiko does, then that is the impression they will manufacture.

[@Foodstyledesign_]

The palm leaf dial is just awful - but people will buy it purely for financial reasons. The fluted dial in blue is really nice. However, GS will always win on the quality and wow-factor of their dials. People buy Rolex for all the wrong reasons these days.

[@DingDong-tj9ce]

Grand Seiko is calling out Rolex by providing a similar BUT better product for a fair price without the nonsense 'wait list'...and they're winning people over...Rolex is becoming a joke.

[@barfymann362]

I love Grand Seiko, unfortunately AD's are now starting to do their pathetic "waiting list" game with GS as well. Ever since the White Birch came out, it seems like there was no much hype that AD's starting grouping purchases. Same thing is happening with A. Lange & Söhne, in order to qualify to purchase certain pieces - one must purchase other watches. I do not know what the future of watch collecting looks like for those of us who cannot afford to buy a watch outright. I was lucky to have bought my ALS 1815, two years ago. The economics of the luxury market went insane during Covid, wealthy individuals pouring money into watches - making it near impossible to purchase at retail. I'm saving up for a JLC, let's hope they're still available by the time I get there.

[@Arseization]

Consider that GS does not produce that many watches to begin with, I don't know if the 35k number is actuallly true nowadays but if then this is crazy low for an international market (with most of them staying in Japan). It is a shame to see this trend evolving but with the White Birch it might actually be because it is fairly popular (even with those that are not fond of GS in general) and there really are not that many available / crafted.

[@synthezorth9199]

Totally agree, the grands evoke emotion, the Rolex's were done to look nice.

[@merkeet]

I find this palm dial a cheap and bad execution of a great idea.

[@henrywest7217]

At the risk of enduring cat-calls, I'd have to say...both sets of dials have their charms.

[@Cypher652]

The depreciation argument is a valid one, I get watch lovers saying you love the watch and wear and enjoy it. However if a watch doesn’t depreciate you can trade that watch for something else to keep experiencing new watches. That said i bought a shunbun in Japan after seeing the cherry blossoms so it takes me back there. Both arguments valid

[@bobcat409]

Grand Seiko lit up Rolex with its artisan dials and Rolex is logically replying with its robotic creativity. Everyone wins. The growth in popularity of GS in the USA caught Rolex’s attention. I think you guys captured this subject exquisitely.

[@thenotanclan]

Grand Seiko all day long - perfection - you can actually buy one, own one and wear one - and they’re honest - it’s the thinking mans Rolex

[@Star-bp5jj]

Well said

[@rosschops9509]

I can’t believe you don’t have more views in this vid. FYI lads, I run a mental health unit and you have got me through some dark days in the last couple of years; thank you, keep ‘em coming.

[@georgecupac1202]

My choice is simply GS. You just can't get a better dial than Seiko, aside from the misalignment of the affordable side of Seiko.

[@brianmsahin]

Oh that's a palm motif!! There was me thinking it was a cannabis plant! 😉 Grand Seiko is the way to go for two reasons. 1. The Seiko is a real hand crafted watch, Rolex turn out a million robot made pieces a year. 2. You can actually buy a Grand Seiko without having to beg them to take your money. I suppose I could add 3. Rolex makes the same watch every year.

[@jeanrogershu]

Fun fact : Rolex are made with robots, GS are handcrafted. But there are much more GS avaiable on store than Rolex!

[@jmartin2778]

I've owned "special" dial DJs and currently a GS Snowflake. The DJs are gone, but the Snowflake remains. The really isn't a comparison to be made that holds up. Even the hulk that I own and love for it's depth and color shifting, isn't as nice at the Snowflake.

[@Cervando]

Grand Seiko has a much better level of finish than Rolex, the dials are far more beautiful and the movements are better. The only thing Rolex does better is hype and marketing. That is why some people are prepared to pay ridiculous prices for average watches, when they could buy a better watch for less,or an infinitely superior one for the same money. Rolex only retain their value because their devotees are desperate to get one and avoid ridiculous lead times.

[@GTeaO]

GS without a doubt

[@mormegil72]

Great video. Can anyone tell me about the gold Seiko Hi-beat at 9:33? Can't find anything on it.

[@joshuawilliams1055]

Ever since I was kid, everyone was into Rolex. Also from what I understand you couldn't just buy a Rolex. You will have to be picked ir soend more money in the authorized dealers. I could only afford Gshock which is nothing wrong with that. Now I have a better job I thought about obtaining Rolex but I was introduced to Grand Seiko. A few hours on Reddit people showing theirs and I was sold. GS > Rolex.

[@mikehoward9912]

Grand Seiko cannot ramp up production like Rolex. It takes 3-5 years to become a master finisher. I people get tired of the 2 year wait. There won't be any GS on the market. Grand Seiko makes Patek quantity. Screw Rolex

[@Quicksilver_Cookie]

I would go as far as saying GS probably have the best dials in business. Truly mesmerizing. I said it. Perhaps second to A&S, that's it. I'm sorry, but Rolex dials aren't just behind. It's some places behind.