Seiko Blue Marinemaster 300 - SLA023 Review

[@denisdes7]

If you aren't a Seikopath, this watch will transform you into one. Despite owning and appreciating "Swiss luxury", the Marinemaster seldom leaves my (6.5 inch) wrist. That blue model is stunning, period.

[@mijomendes1705]

Odličan

[@Romio666]

That’s exactly what happened to me. I have three different types of Sea-dwellers yet I loved my blue MM. recently, swapped it for a green 50th anniversary one. Isn’t even better 😍 ?! Now missing the blue and not wearing even my Batman Rolly 🤷‍♂️

[@ZedaaaaHD]

Looks waaay to tacky for the price range. Tudor black bay beats this thing by a mile

[@denisdes7]

@@Abdullah-ou7bp the green is a limited series. I would probably choose it over the blue, but it all comes down to personal taste.

[@TreenighetMaranata]

I've ordered this Blue Ocean dial one SLA023J1, and waiting for it! Thank you for your review. Update - I have been using the watch for about 22 days now, and am completely satisfied with it!

[@giangvu7902]

This is one of those watches where you cannot assess the product based on individual components because nothing seems to be worth the price. This is one of those cases where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. You are right about Seiko doesn't really care about what the other companies are doing (especially Rolex and Omega) and they are too COOL to care lol. I guess that is a perk of being such a big and great watchmaker out there! Great video and review Bruce. Thanks!

[@drwindsurf]

The MM300 is such an amazing watch, I like the bracelet (I have the 001) and I love the clasp (but it is thick). I think at the new price Tudor and Omega might have more to offer - at the old $1300 (used) price the MM300 was the king of divers. Thank you for another awesome review Bruce :)

[@entroheat]

Other than thickness neither seamaster nor black bay come near the finish of the marinemaster and i own the three

[@thomastan1658]

Hi Bruce, thank you for another great video. I am a Seikopath too and am very fortunate to own a 001, SLA13,17 and 27. That makes me a MM300...

[@brendanjohndecastro]

Thanks to you bruce,i got one and i love it! At first i watch all your review videos about the marinemaster 300,all the models the difference of the old and new and it helps a lot before buying,thank you...

[@johnlewis8168]

After hearing too much bad date issues on the Tudor GMT and watching this for like the 6th time, I'm gonna have to go to my nearest AD and try one of these in Blue.

[@android61242]

That intro was top notch m8.

[@a3marketing991]

Great looking watch, but I do wish it still said "MARINEMASTER" on the dial. At $2,500+ for this watch, I will be looking at Grand Seiko 9F and Omega for a little more.

[@BruceWilliams]

A lot of people would I think

[@varanid9]

I could care less, really, though, I do kinda wish it didn't have that Prospex logo.

[@entroheat]

Whomever compares stupid quartz 9F to such beauty is crazy.

[@a3marketing991]

@@entroheat You realize the 9F movements have an accuracy of ±10 seconds "per year". The 8L35 in this watch is -10/+15 seconds "per day"

[@entroheat]

@@a3marketing991 I am aware of that also my citizen eco drive radio controlled has accuracy or 0 second a year, mechanical watch is a whole different game.

[@makon2012]

What's not to love about Seiko? EVERYTHING is in house!

[@morastraps3525]

Nice review Bruce. Picked up the black MM300 recently and have to say there's nothing else out there quite like it. Great watch.

[@wick-trimmer1980]

Beautiful Video Bruce, love the Macro shots. Yes, I'm a Seiko-path for sure. I agree its not an Omega but its everything I expected from Seiko. If you love the Marine Master there's nothing else to match it. The bracelet may be sub-par but I love the clasp. This video is detailed and fair.

[@1968jpy]

Bruce I finally acquired my grail Seiko SLA047 MM300 and can’t believe how nice this watch is.

[@jefferyneu3915]

Definitely a Seikopath! If I had the funds, one of those would be in my collection!

[@charlesbawden5924]

Such a great video. Love the production quality. Love my Seiko’s and I’ve finally pushed the button and ordered one of these. Thanks for the review! ❤

[@theguardian3431]

Great review. Seiko should consider putting the Prospex logo below the Seiko on the dial. It would be better and more balanced on the upper portion of the dial.

[@waynecastleman1363]

A monster of a watch in a very wearable size . Stunning color dial in blue and green. I have the 140th anniversary Prospect in green but still a Marine Master 300 Professional and worth every penny.

[@cryptoengineer9930]

Simply the best-looking dive watch on the planet. Rolex or Swiss luxury can't beat that, I'm afraid, and it's probably the reason you keep coming back to the MarineMaster. The depth and smaller dial, while connected to a thicker case with beautiful polishing, make it a tool watch. It's an amazing watch to own.

[@MarcusGLovesWatches]

Bruce this might be a keeper !!

[@dire67]

Where do you find one for $500? I've only been seeing them for $4000 or more.

[@Meta3344]

Thanks Bruce. I just pulled the trigger on one of these bad boys. I also have an Ananta in route. After twenty years of collecting I’m finally giving them a chance to change my stereotype regarding Japanese watches & luxury. I’m sure I’ll be impressed can’t wait.

[@MC-vp4eg]

Hey Boz. It’s been a year since getting this watch. What’s your take on it? What do you think of Japanese luxury watches? Thanks in advance for your opinion.

[@wpherigo1]

Seikopath! That’s great!

[@JeffreyMcMahon]

Love your helpful, informative video. I was nagged by the question: Is your SLA023 a keeper or is the jury still out on that question?

[@theicedpotato]

Following Bruce for a while, I've started to notice a pattern - Vid 1: Hi guys check out this watch, it is an amazing piece. I love it and this definitely has a place in my collection Vid 2: Hi guys I just sold that watch, look at my new watch which definitely has a place in my collection

[@JeffreyMcMahon]

@@theicedpotato On the other hand, sometimes it can take several months for us to bond with a watch or see our tastes change so that what we thought was a keeper we end up selling. Sometimes we sell keepers and re-buy them, so the jury may still be out on this SLA023. Watch obsessives can be fickle and capricious, and I'm one of them.

[@BruceWilliams]

Hey Jeff, sometime last year I learned that I don't have keepers. I love checking out and experiencing as many watches that intrigue me as possible. This one is easily the most enjoyable marinemaster I've experienced but I will be selling it. I'm building a recording studio and will need the funds

[@JeffreyMcMahon]

@@BruceWilliams I totally get it, especially as you constantly need new watches to review for your channel. I doubt you'll be selling the coral blue Sumo though. That may have a special place in your heart.

[@BruceWilliams]

@@JeffreyMcMahon yes that one will definitely stick around

[@Eric_Nielsen]

Tried one on at a GTG & agree with everything you say. Compared to a 20 year old Breitling, Omega, or Tudor these will seem fancy enough but side by side with a modern one, no comparison.

[@varanid9]

The "luxury" brands are certainly more streamlined, this is quite clunky and toolish in comparison. But, as far as "fancy", my MM300 gives way very very little to my Submariner and none at all to my Seamaster. As for Tudor, the Seiko is nicer, though, as I said, most others will fit under a cuff better if suits and ties are your thing - not a good match for this watch.

[@blanceemt]

Great video! I tried this on at the Boutique in NYC, instantly fell in love with the blue. Another difference that I perceive in photos online is that the previous model seems to have thicker metal on the applied indices, wheres this has more generous lume. Obviously more lume is moar better, but somehow I keep finding myself most drawn to the SBDX017 with DiaShield and the classic styling.

[@leyay7540]

The SBDX001 was one of my favorite watches and I thought an upgrade of sapphire crystal would make it to be my grail. However my taste has totally changed to become a dress watch guy in recent years. So although I'm still a Seikopath, I wouldn't say the current SLA021/023 still have the great value as the SBDX001. Don't get me wrong, they are also not too overpriced to be considered as a well-finished professional diver.

[@michaelgalanos981]

Nice video Bruce I have a chance to pick up new 017 at 1550. The truth is that you have to see and wear this watch in order to apriciate the value I think this one comes close to the grand Seikos I would put it up against any Swiss luxury watch it is that good.

[@setter55]

If you can get one for that price get it quickly. I paid £1500.00 for mine a year and a half ago. I've already turned down offers of £2100.00 for it. In fact a friend is selling his older 001 for the same price.

[@Psychedelicide]

Transocean got me in2 collecting & Seiko specifically. Now this is on my grail target. Thnx 4 the awesome review & unboxing. Great vids!! Hahaha Seikopath is the path in the right direction, the Seikotic behaviour on this channel however is rather Alarming!...

[@renodeluxe280]

Any update on this one? I though we would get a part 2 on this watch! many thanks!

[@MackieX]

Really wanted this... so i put my MM 017 up for sale... and sure its gone in 2 days. But my desire for this has also faded.. guess i just have had enough of the Marine Master, that was my 3rd. I am actually looking forward to an update on the Blumo. Spending more time on my SLA025 now. In the end, i pull the trigger on an Islander ISL-08 instead 😅. As always, great videos Bruce!!!

[@Laz_Arus]

@Mackie ... Nice choice. I opted for the orange ISL-07. VG value for money compared to mainstream brands.

[@samuelball8775]

Great review Bruce. I like how you tried to make its size understandable and gave good examples. Love the blue dial and that silver date wheel is a nice touch and the slight gold accents... Nice 👍

[@alexsdg3441]

Love the movement, love the dial and casing. But huge disappointment on the bracelet and clasp. at $3K, I do not understand that it still has push pins and half-done clasp. Seiko might be marching on his own drums, but we are the ones who are buying them.

[@oceanbeliever681]

I’ve never owned a Seiko, if I were to own one that would be a winner!

[@setter55]

I've owned a 017 for a year and a half now. Stock bracelet is very poor so I stuck a strapcode Angus jubilee bracelet on it. Much higher quality and changes the overall look and feel of the watch. Seiko should buy strapcode.

[@japudjuha]

OMG I am in love! AND I have just ordered a JDM Tuna 031, what to do? Sell a kydney???

[@jensfiehler4716]

Love that petrol blue. But honestly, the comparison to the Seamaster was an eye-opener. Whole different level, I am afraid.

[@realfire6883]

awesome review as always and a very nice watch! Is it only me but I cannot stand the crown at 4 o'clock, don't know why but just cant deal with it for some reason.

[@scottsodyssey2485]

Great video, yes I am a #seikopath as well. Most of my collection is Seiko.

[@jamess8175]

This is a winning watch in a winning colour!

[@the.magnus]

How much was the price rise from the old Marinemaster 300? I actually still prefer the look of the old model, wish they kept the same design and just updated the ceramic bezel and sapphire crystal.

[@bradd5961]

Hi Bruce, do you have any suggestions for other alternative bracelets for this watch? I don't mind a heavy bracelet and feel that it could balance it out a bit.

[@j8sdx]

Only thing putting me off the new versions is I hear people are having issues with the lume triangle on the ceramic bezel versions where over time the lume is rubbing off hence sticking to my old Marinemaster dial mm300

[@1968jpy]

Awesome vid on an amazing 😉 Seiko watch . Owning both an skx009 and a Blumo I can definitely see your comparison points as far as size and dimensions . As far as this particular watch it would definitely be my pick if I were to purchase a new Marine Master 👍🏻

[@azhomeboy2000]

If I concluded correctly, you would prefer the bracelet of the SBDX017 or 001 over this version of the bracelet? Thanks!

[@karbonkevin919]

I'm also a seikopath you gain a subscriber. :)

[@Nalapombu]

Really nice stuff. What is the watch after the black SINN? Please somebody ID.

[@mainlymusicman]

i have this marine master and the lume on it lasts a lot longer than my sumo 3rd gen. after about 1 hour or so the sumo is almost completely dead. the marine master keeps going for a long time.

[@7777Gixer]

I'm currently wearing a baby tuna SRP637 of 4R36 movement. I'm thinking another better movement from Seiko. I was looking at Sumo and MM200 6R35 until this MM300 SLA023J1 blown me away. I need to save up for it.

[@GabrielGGabGattringer]

The MM300 is a fantastic Seiko watch! Its size is perfect (lug width of 20 is odd, i prefer 22). Unfortunately this watch is too expensive for me :-(

[@mdtaylor2274]

Awesome video Bruce! Do you know if there's a green dial version of the MM300?

[@鄭志峰-x1x]

Hi Bruce, SEIKO SLA023 and ORIENT300 Whos Lume strong and Whos Lume longer ?

[@jonathanberger9781]

Very helpful video, thank you! What do you think of the SLA035J1 ? Seems to be quite similar. I'd be curious to know your thinking and how it differs from the SLA023.

[@fungusfoong9080]

The Tissot Seastar has the same level of WR but not as bulky or tall as this.

[@tavisjou3778]

So does rolex submariner whats the point?

[@ripperx444]

Pointless comment! This seiko is classic and it’s classic because the design.... comparing to a TISSOT LOL stop it

[@fungusfoong9080]

@@ripperx444 Alright then, I'll compare it to the Tudor Pelagos instead. 500 m WR and still not as tall.

[@ripperx444]

Fungus Foong some men have woman’s sized wrist and that’s ok also! Some men also have smaller weenies and that’s ok also.... an observation... those who do like to compare!!!! Those who don’t find the Seiko just fine!!!!!

[@galaga8834]

Bruce, the lume plots and the indices are identical to the SBDX017 that you flipped. At least to me. As is the bracelet that you indicated.

[@BruceWilliams]

They may be. But looking at my macro the blue seems deeper and the surrounds appear larger. much nicer in feel though nothing like the original 001

[@turnerpie]

Hi Bruce, hope youre keeping well. Have you got your hands on the limited edition black series of this watch? At 600 pieces do you think this is going to be a real collectable given its the first blacked out version of this marinemaster model? Thanks

[@johnconstantinecastillo9181]

Hi how does the blue dial (sla023) stands as compared to the black dial (sla021). Which is more appealing?

[@devilzdandruff9199]

Damn that Omega looks ridiculously good.

[@Zeriod101]

Excellent well explained review 👍 I would love one of these as I like the styling, but think it's overpriced for what it is especially when compared to Swiss timepieces that are Chronometer rated.

[@davidbarton4975]

While we are quick to bash Seiko for their price increases for no increase function/value, there is a strange anomaly with the newest 140th limited editions here in Australia. I came back to check out this video for reference. At the Australian Seiko boutique (online) the newest 140th limited edition SLA047 (green dial with Black bezel MM300) is priced at AUD$4995. However the regular versions of the MM300 of SLA021/023 (black and blue bezel/dials) are priced at AUD$5400. So is there something "cheaper" in the design of the latest MM300 or has Seiko Australia stuffed up and offered a "limited edition" at a reduced price compared to the still current regular versions? Bruce, can you investigate or provide an opinion on how the USA or European Seiko markets are looking for this new 140th limited edition MM300 (SLA047)

[@varanid9]

I don't know what you're trying to say about comparing "Swiss luxury" to "Japanese luxury"; I've found that Japanese movements are more robust and require less maintenance than my Swiss watch movements and, for all practical intents and purposes, just as accurate. My MM300 is just as nice as my Rolex Subby and GMT, though, you're right about the bracelet when comparing it to the current Rolex clasp as well as the rather odd feeling bezel action. I do suspect, however, that when service time comes, the MM will be just as much a pain in the ass as its Swiss counterparts, unlike my cheaper Seikos.

[@eriktran5238]

Does anyone know if the Dial Diameter on the sla023 equals the sbdx017?

[@RandoRaf]

which MM300 SBDX vs SLA... i can't decide.

[@MBrown-ct5zn]

Bruce I have a question on the new marinemaster 300m SLA021. I noticed that the crown action is a little rough. The crown when screwing down is tricky. I need to push down gently counter clockwise turn then forward when it settles in. Are all these shenanigans really normal for this watch. I figured you have more experience in these matters than most. Winding the watch feels a little rough too. Thanks for the help

[@BruceWilliams]

Its defintiely not as clean as a ETA but it should not feel gritty or cheap in any way. A little back play to catch the thread is pretty normal for this movement

[@MBrown-ct5zn]

@@BruceWilliams thanks again. Not much info out there on these matters.

[@clo2715]

Hi Bruce quick question since you've handled both watches I'm gonna ask about. Would you rather have the Seiko SBDX017 MM300 or the Grand Seiko SBGN005 with the 9F movement?

[@BruceWilliams]

I like the MM more myself but I am admittedly a dive watch guy

[@cypv12]

What if I like the look of the Marinemaster but don't want an anvil on my wrist?:p Great video as usual.

[@apostolosgalimanas8274]

i readmany problems with triangle lume to this model..its truth?

[@mavericklewis4392]

A handsome watch.

[@markusf6964]

I own the SBDX001 for app. 15 years. I hated the bracelet for 2 years. When i was putting the watch on, the silly quick adjust expanded most times. The reason why i still have the watch is simple: "I stoped using the bracelet". Anything like Nato, Rubber, Leather or Erikas Original is better. Just stop using the bracelet.

[@spook3817]

Hi,Hows the watch running after 10 years?

[@Bonzo-bd3nk]

Nice review - thanks!

[@adrianhargreaves2854]

Hi Bruce, great vid. Would you have this watch over the new ceramic smp300. Cheers mate

[@erikiverson1762]

I am comparing those two watches myself. Isn't the ceramic SMP 5k more than this (3100 vs 8100)?

[@adrianhargreaves2854]

@@erikiverson1762 hi mate, I've got the smp, I'm just pondering weather or not to put it with a mm300, would it get wrist time?

[@erikiverson1762]

@@adrianhargreaves2854 Awesome, I am considering this blue MM300 to buy me some time before I get the black ceramic SMP. Pretty good diver combo I think!

[@adrianhargreaves2854]

@@erikiverson1762 definitely mate, definitely

[@BruceWilliams]

If I had to only own one it would probably by the omega. I like it a lot as well

[@danemain7859]

Excellent video

[@MountainStandardTime]

I thought Apple came out with a new Aerial screen saver with your intro. Is that a new “SEIKO” font on the dial?

[@MrJamesDuffy]

I think there are three different fonts currently used on the Seiko logo and the differences seem to be in the serifs. The applied logos will often have straight, right-angled serifs that connect each character. Printed logos also so the straight, right-angled serifs but the serifs do not connect to adjacent characters. Some of the higher-end models with a printed logo have the pointy, flared-out serifs. The aspect ratio of the font might differ between the three fonts as well but I'm not 100% sure.

[@BruceWilliams]

Yes this is the latest most stylized font

[@martinskoda8725]

Fantastic watch but like you stated, at this price point, there shouldnt be pushpins and out of the space size clasps. This watch used could be found closer to 1000 and now is between 2 and 3...and only for ceramic bezel or sapphire?Seiko's pricing lately really pushes me away

[@lensoversavannah8765]

I just bought this watch. I am unbiased, at least I believe this, when I go to boutiques to check out watches; I typically wear my orient bambino, my cheapest watch. I place it side by side with brands such as Oris, Omega and Rolex. The Rolex, at all price points, are impressive in build quality and are by for the greatest value. Based on the fact, model dependent, they are likely to appreciate in short time. The others, Oris and Omega, while frothed in history; their build quality-up to an $8000 price point, were not impressive enough for me. The 8L35 movement could surely be regulated so as to improve accuracy to within those at two to three times its retail price. My seiko monster (7s26) is very accurate when fully wound. I have not spent more than 14hrs per day in neither of my watches. They have all been a few seconds of accuracy. I actually enjoy setting my watches when taking them out of the case after some time.

[@evh4611]

Brother, you are telling me that the build quality of the latest Omega pieces is not of high order ? Because i think they are great. I also own two Rolex btw

[@lensoversavannah8765]

E VH not saying they aren’t impressive. I just did not believe there was enough there for “me” to spend big. I believe if a person wants a Rolex or a prestigiously branded watch, they should buy it. I would not buy a Tudor though I know they are a good quality, but for me it seems like I am settling for less than a Rolex. (I would never buy a Rolex by the way) I have nothing against high priced watches; i do not buy them, just as I would not buy a Grand Seiko. But I appreciate all the leading luxury watches out there and enjoy going to boutiques to check them out; but I genuinely do so without wanting one. I understand why people buy them. My next and final watch will hopefully be PP nautilus or an AP Royal Oak. I love their design, something I could replicate in a less expensive Bvlgari Octo Roma; but it would not satisfy me wanting the PP or AP. I will never sell any of of my 6 watches. I bought them because they match my personality. If I am spending $10000 or less, my choice will be based my perception of value. Above that, I am paying for a work of art that cannot be replicated, not even by the same designer.

[@evh4611]

@@lensoversavannah8765 Ahh, ... this sets your first comment in a different perspective ...

[@hankitytankity]

Isn't the Marine Master really top heavy? I've read that the clasp balances it to an extent but it gets worse with light straps like nato. I wish they had a titanium option at similar price point.

[@BruceWilliams]

It feels a little too heavy but not by much

[@briandy2094]

Macy’s carry it in stores?

[@chuckschillingvideos]

Hell no. Macy's doesn't carry Seiko's better watches.

[@ClassicalProtestant]

Gorgeous watch...they could have and should have done better on the bracelet. Like others have said Marine Master signature would have been special

[@samuellee1976]

Nicely done

[@LondonLex]

GREAT TITLES BRUCE😎☀️🥳

[@donellmcclure5445]

Get rid of the monobloc case and make it 13mm thick and you have a nearly perfect sports/dive watch

[@denisdes7]

It exists, it's called the MM200.

[@donellmcclure5445]

@@denisdes7 I used to have a MM200. It doesn't have the same level detail and finishing.

[@denisdes7]

@@donellmcclure5445 nor the same price but I get it.

[@atpanelo]

Seiko continues to ignore the complaints of customers on their low class bracelets. Why can'y they match their premium watches with premium bracelets?

[@indieladylove]

this is not a marinemaster which ends with the sbdx017 but just a prospex 300m diver.

[@АлександрАлександрович-т8ж6й]

Its totally the same watch except few details

[@CyberRabid.]

I love the watch, but I could never pay that price for it. Especially when considering that the 50 Atmos can be had for around $850.00. Hard to beat Squale.

[@nicolasknight4900]

Bruce everyone knows the lug to lug is the most important measurement for watches and wrist size! and that is considerably large compared to the skx dude.

[@Jon81G]

Nicolas Knight That also depends on the shape of the lugs. Do they hug the wrist, or are they more flat? I own this watch and I’ve also owned an SKX. In my opinion, the two are absolutely nothing alike... at all. But I do agree with Bruce that this watch, though very large, fits deceivingly well on those with smaller wrists.

[@BruceWilliams]

I'm with Jon, so many factors determine a good fit. Not just lug to lug

[@MrJdp1968]

I think this is the best looking Marinemaster, what a knockout 👊🏻

[@CaptainDoel]

Hi Bruce .. just subs on you coz you declare as a Seikopath .. and so I am :)

[@edwardkollar448]

Nice watch but I can’t get past having the crown at 4:00 on any watch; I just prefer it at the 3:00 position. Also, an I correct in that it only has a partially lumed bezel?

[@BruceWilliams]

Correct, it is lumed to 20

[@igorcicala7]

so beautiful 😊

[@highdesertforester]

I just can't get past that rough finished seconds hand. It screams cheap to me. I'd much rather see a gold polished seconds hand.

[@Teachering]

Watch bracelets, it seems to me, have always been the weakness with Seiko and Grand Seiko watches. Yes, even Grand Seiko bracelets are badly executed considering the kind of money one is paying for such a timepiece. That an SLA Seiko model still offers the pin and collar bracelet is inexcusable. Still, the Marinemaster 300 will be my next watch.

[@superfast30]

Patek switched to pin and collar on many of its models. Its actually more secure than screws!

[@scottlalonde2878]

Thanks for the effort, Bruce, nice video. This watch isn't for me. Small dial and for some reason 1 piece case throws me off. It's allot of money too me, so should be a perfect fit. Nice as it is, just not for me. Thanks again.

[@splendidsnapshot9915]

Looks like that it will be on the chopping block soon.

[@therealwatchdoctor]

Not my style, but another great video!

[@jrlee1031]

I disagree. The marinemaster text is what's makes a true mm300. This maybe the newer model, but I would prefer the sbdx017.

[@NisokiesNafokies]

beautiful good looking watch. the gold second hand really stands out and make this ref unique. eventhough I am very much like MARINEMASTER 4 lines which is original version, I still like this new MM300 look. The only down side with this new MM300 is the price. Abit too pricy I feel.

[@ZedaaaaHD]

That thing is so thick. Besides that the finishing is not up to par to Omega or Tudor.

[@umitdemirci53]

Very nice..

[@countryprepper4719]

Awesome 👍

[@evh4611]

If this is not a keeper, i don't know what is

[@BruceWilliams]

Lol I am not allowed to say the k word

[@patricktutek7933]

The bracelet is akin to serving a undercooked baked 🥔 with a perfectly cooked premium cut of 🥩; does it ruin the meal, no but you enjoy it a little less.