SEIKO Controversy - The Limited Edition Mountain Glacier Alpinist SPB199J1 Vs SPB197J1

What constitutes as a Limited Edition watch ?
Back in October of 2020 SEIKO released the SPB199J1 Mountain Glacier, a European Limited Edition Alpinist of only 2020 pieces. In March 2021 they released the SPB197J1 on a bracelet, an almost identical non limited watch minus the numbered case back and 2 deployant straps.
The owners of the limited edition are quite rightly upset and feel somewhat cheated by SEIKO, The brand have have recognised the concerns raised by this controversial release and are currently dealing with the aftermath.
I've heard from all sides of the debacle, Customers, SEIKO and the Authorized Dealers. let me know where you stand on the so called Limited Edition release ?
Seiko Customer Complaints ;
Email : [e-mail]
Telephone : [phone]
I got a great deal on the SEIKO SPB197 from Hillier Jewellers, who have a periodic offer for new customers, definitely worth checking out their website for any new SEIKO's : www.hillierjewellers.co.uk/
Many thanks to all the contributors in today's video, named and anonymous.
All additional material has been gathered under fair usage guidelines.
If you would like to support the channel or offer a watch or product for review then please contact Ronnie @ LastWatch via email [e-mail] or @alastwatch on Instagram.

[@Munkenba]

Bought a 199 on the day it was released thinking it was by far and away the most beautiful alpinist there ever was or would be. I believed that if I didn't seize it, the scalpers would and it would forever sit at an unattainable value. Never had an Alpinist before because none of them grabbed me the same way. Honestly, when the 197 came out, I was pretty annoyed, but I've gotten over it. Truth is, I never bought the 199 for its resale value, I bought it because I wanted it and I've worn it every day since. The green strap is just better looking to me than the 197's bracelet too. It hurts that the 197 is that much cheaper, but I never intended on getting that £800 back anyway, so it doesn't keep me up at night. To cut a long story short, last November I bought a watch that I love, and I'm still wearing it today. There's a reddit argument brewing in the corner of the room, but it sounds fainter the longer I stare at that dial...

[@LastWatch]

Great attitude and perspective Alfie, like you I think it may be the most attractive Alpinist to date

[@brianmsahin]

It's a gorgeous watch. I can understand how buyers might feel, but I'm glad there's a new opportunity to get one. Update. I just checked the situation of these watches where I live. Both models are still for sale but there's only a couple of the 199 available and it's priced to an equivalent of about $180 more than the 197. I suppose having that number on the back will keep it separated from the 197 enough to be considered more valuable.

[@LastWatch]

As you have the option of either which would you choose

[@briancollins1078]

Great review, I’ve purchased the 197 on the bracelet and the 209 I’m just ordered the limited edition 2021 great watch to have in my collection.

[@LastWatch]

Hi Brian, the full review will follow, I just wanted to share the monumental muck up by Seiko

[@MrMilktheFloFlinga]

Great watch and video. Glad you got yours with bracelet and price you like!

[@desireless4092]

My thoughts? Gonna grab me one lol. Finally something special for Europe too that won't make do a painful import. Be aware though, some retailers are trying to push the non limited edition for almost the same price as the Limited one.

[@LastWatch]

Those dealers are chancing it

[@TheViolentTeddy]

Great video!! Thanks for the shout-out and plug for the page!! To clarify, I've never had a problem with the release of the 197. It's such a beautiful dial. I'm not greedy. I'm happy for everyone to have access to it. My problem is with Seiko releasing it as a LE, then only a couple of months later releasing the same watch on a bracelet and cheaper. Very deceptive and a cheeky way for Seiko to make a quick buck. But, as stated, I'm keeping mine. I never had any intentions of selling it for big bucks as I'm not a flipper. But you video was accurate and respectful and very insightful. So thank you!!

[@LastWatch]

A true watch lover

[@josiprogosic1980]

Added spb197j1 to my collection today. Stunning timepiece!

[@LastWatch]

A real beauty

[@davedavidh3328]

There are too many people using watches as an investment tool, they start throwing their toys out the pram if they lose money.

[@LastWatch]

Maybe

[@BiffTannenBTTF]

I died when you said her name was Karen lol

[@LastWatch]

Blame my accent, it’s Kerryn

[@BiffTannenBTTF]

@@LastWatch haha! Ok

[@1RunnerDad]

Nice coverage of the topic! I am not a Seiko fanatic, I just happened across the glacier and decided I wanted one. And then I learned that it’s not available any longer. Seeing your video makes me wonder if a lot of owners are holding onto theirs in hopes the value rises. I’m not a collector. I just like the watch, which ticks a lot of the boxes for what I want.

[@A_Fekri]

I got the 199 for the dial, not the straps. And similar to most people who purchased the watch I had it shipped to me out of Europe through a dealer, making it hard to return. Releasing the same dial in a non limited edition after only a few months and at a lower price with a bracelet nonetheless is a stab in the back to all the seiko and seiko alpinist fans who bought the 199. I for one have learnt my lesson and will not be buying any new seiko releases, especially the limited editions. I will stick to vintage and pre used seikos if I get the urge, but nothing new from a company that has lost my trust.

[@LastWatch]

Very sad to hear, the 199 is still a special watch but I understand how you feel

[@orlandobrulli1832]

@@LastWatch i dont understand why is special 199?the dial is same of 197?😂

[@MrVitamincpp]

same here :)

[@ledgeroliver4988]

I know Im kinda randomly asking but does anybody know of a good site to watch newly released movies online?

[@billyellis6458]

@Ledger Oliver flixportal :D

[@Reconteamwatchblog]

197 was discontinued in Aug 2023. Making both highly sought after now.

[@LastWatch]

I'll check that out, thanks

[@markgtrheyes]

As a non 199 owner, glad I will be able to get a 197 at some point in the future

[@georgelim9933]

Is THE SPB197 available to get online still? I don't live in Europe and it seems hard to find online.

[@LastWatch]

Definitely still available in the UK

[@aris22enzo]

Great review , thank you very much !!!! Because I want to buy the 197J1 can you tell me please what are the dominant colors in the dial in day conditions but without the sun knocking the watch ? Pale blue or gray ? Or a mixing of the two colors ? Thank you in advance !!

[@LastWatch]

The grey doesnt seem to make an appearance, the emphasis is definitely on the blue like an azure ocean

[@aris22enzo]

@@LastWatch Thank you very much for your answer!!😉😀

[@christianjoachimgruber2773]

It's never forgotten ...

[@LastWatch]

Still painful

[@eddsauceplz]

Is there a difference in the movements of the 197 and 199?

[@LastWatch]

They are the same

[@igorz.3972]

So the dials of SPB199J1 and SPB197J1 are exactly the same, correct ? The difference is just the straps vs bracelet and numbered case back?

[@LastWatch]

100%

[@mr_watchaddict3146]

I sold my 199 as soon as I saw the image of the 197. To be honest I felt the quality wasn’t reflected in the price anyway, but was pissed off with Seiko for the 197 release. Wearing the 199 immediately reminded me of Seiko’s backstabbing move, so it had to go on that basis alone. In terms of investment value, I’ll stick with my 017 which has true sentimental value to me.

[@LastWatch]

I have an 065 bought it new for £260, funny how times have changed

[@mr_watchaddict3146]

@@LastWatch I know, I bought a 035 new for £160! 😫

[@BrakkoJanus]

I understand why the 199 buyers would be upset, and rightly so. On the other hand I like the unique dial and just ordered a 197 so... mors tua vita mea? Looking forward to your full review!

[@LastWatch]

very happy with this one

[@Hshsha123]

One of the most beautiful Dial for me…Seiko alpinist❤️‍🔥

[@LastWatch]

You may be right

[@robin2thek]

197 looks great!

[@LastWatch]

It really does

[@timurhan3804]

Hello, friend. Thank you for a good review..) Could you please tell me if there is a difference in the colors of the dial between them... ? I heard that 199 dials are richer and brighter than 197 models.. 197 have a grayish dial... Thank you...)

[@LastWatch]

Both dials are exactly the same

[@timurhan3804]

Ок ... thaks

[@MrVitamincpp]

I've bought the SPB199 and there is nothing to discuss, it will remain my last Seiko I buy :)

[@alipontiac]

Just got my hand on spb341j4 limited for Thai🇹🇭 market only, saw it while I was here in a vacation in Bangkok although i prefer the limited glacier Europe edition dial.

[@LastWatch]

Thanks for the heads up

[@ableaquariums5480]

The non-limited just needs a case back swap with the aftermarket numbered one and it's virtually indistinguishable except to an expert. Then sold as naked and many will get ripped off. They needed to make a slight variation to the dial.

[@LastWatch]

I agree

[@helgemenzel8642]

Tip: Buy both of them, put the LE into your collection and the 197 on your wrist. After a couple of years you will be happy to sell the LE.......

[@LastWatch]

I am seriously considering that

[@stigsther4997]

I sold my SPB199 yesterday. I lost a few bobs, but I'm not in this hobby to make money, so I don't care, I'm just glad I got rid of the damn thing. And I also don't care if it turns out to be a future classic, as I'm not investing in watches, I just wear them. Two of the reasons I bought this watch are because of the nice dial color, and because it's special since it's not something many other people have. Or so I thought until they released the 197. I've really started to dislike Seiko now, and I've listed my other Seikos for sale (I have three left at this time). I can guarantee that I'll never buy another Seiko, and I'll warn others to stay away, too. I've previously bought Seikos as presents to nephews, but the next time I'll go for for instance Hamilton, Laco or Longines (they are better quality watches anyway).

[@LastWatch]

But if you liked the watch and didnt care about cost then why not hang onto it, sorry to hear you have fallen out of love with Seiko

[@stigsther4997]

@@LastWatch Why would I hang on to a watch that I'd never wear? It wasn't a special watch any more. And as I said, a watch isn't an investment piece for me. When you're treated badly by someone, you don't want to hang out with them any more. You also see the flaws that you may have ignored before. And Seiko watches oftentimes have lots of flaws .

[@LastWatch]

The SEIKO QC is legendary, sorry to hear you've moved on, where will you be spending your cash next

[@stigsther4997]

@@LastWatch I have watches at various price points. In the Seiko price range, I'll look to Sinn, Hamilton, Smiths, Longines, Halios, Oris and so on. There are many options, it depends on what type of watch I'm in the market for (diver, field, flieger etc.)

[@2008wrx]

of course, next time they won't issue an identical non LE after a LE, but just another identical LE with different reference :)))

[@LastWatch]

theres always a way

[@charlieissocoollike2]

Great video! I’m one of the lucky few who saw the reddit post hours before I was going to make the purchase of the 199. Glad I waited. Will look to treat myself to the 197 shortly and even grab a second after market strap with the money saved.

[@LastWatch]

or put it towards another watch

[@driventomadness117]

I hate scalpers - I'm happy the alternative was created. As an Alpanist fan it's unfair i should pay more for the watch because some ass bought multiple to profit.

[@LastWatch]

Totally

[@peterwilson1914]

Great video and good journalism too to get the facts right and to say clearly that the two watches indeed have exactly the same "Glacier" dial...just subscribed 😎

[@LastWatch]

Thanks Peter, I did some digging and allowed all parties to have their say

[@sergeis6902]

Actually I am glad what Seiko decided to release this popular dial for broader public, giving a chance to Seiko lovers including me, and, somewhat, restraining professional flippers. Thank you Seiko ! I think what owners of the numbered version will at least not loose their money as it for sure will retain collectable value, moreover the new SPB197J1 real retail shop price is comparable to one the limited edition had before being sold out in a moment. To me, the frustration comes mainly from the perspective not to gain as much as it was anticipated on the resell....

[@LastWatch]

I'm quite pleased that I was able to grab this, tho I did contemplate getting the 199, the prices on ebay have dropped considerably

[@johnsanabria3279]

Great video,BTW!

[@Endureromex]

I have the black model and it is one of my favourites. However, it is incongruous that the numbers on the perimeter are tiny and yet they ad a cyclops for the date, which detracts beauty. The other thing is that it should be a couple of millimeters larger in diameter.

[@LastWatch]

I think the size is good

[@Endureromex]

@@LastWatch Mind you I have a 19cm+ wrist.

[@LastWatch]

Now I feel stupid

[@Lisa-vj6pz]

That is such a beautiful watch...

[@LastWatch]

Totally

[@moorwatch9654]

I think that this has now created an interesting situation, those who got the 199 will have a very controversial/famous model, the more noise there is the more it goes down as a legendary scandal, I’m sure some prestige will be attached to owning one with a number on the back on the future and therefore boost the collector/resale value. As for those of us who got the 197, me included, I’m just thankful that it did get a wider release so I could grab one, the bracelet is a big bonus but the fact it has been further released allows other fans to experience it. Seiko may have c*cked up in some peoples’ eyes but its the brand we’re all watching the video to see...so whilst I don’t believe this was a deliberate deception by them...I also believe they’re not daft ;)

[@LastWatch]

The 199 will definitely benefit from the raised profile, like you I’m happy to have the 197 on a bracelet... don’t underestimate a big brand

[@johnsanabria3279]

@@LastWatch I agree that many seiko fans were upset by it,but I think that that's the chance that businesses take.....you will lose some fans,but gain others. Will they try it again? I doubt it.......If they do,the second attempt will be compared to the first. In that respect, it will not go well with them.

[@JB-qt8eh]

I'm glad I only have one limited edition from seiko, the sbdc059. Only 1000 unit made, it's not a popular model, so I think seiko will never reissue this.

[@LastWatch]

An Emerald beauty

[@kentchoong7922]

Owner of SPB199J should glad to have it. After this incident, the limited edition for SPB199J1 become more valuable & unique among other Alpinist Limited Edition. I'm new here, miss the change to have it. Now wishing for the next Alpinist SPB355J1 will be in my collection.

[@LastWatch]

Ice Ice Baby, enjoy

[@nickyang1143]

Seiko's been doing this for a while. See the SRP455 SRP461. I'm in the camp of wanting a numbered limited edition for my seikos and such a small difference in price is nothing esp when they retain or gain value much better then their non limit counterparts.

[@LastWatch]

it's a winner either way

[@commentjedi]

That number in the back will be what makes it a rare collectible. Just look at the crazy prices in the coin or stamp collecting world.

[@LastWatch]

I agree, when the dust settles it will be a special watch

[@yogabook1199]

It won't, the blue Alpinist 089 will be and even the 201 has a good chance, nobody will pay extra for the 199 when you can get the 197 for half the price.... with a bracelet!

[@vailmcc]

I disagree.. there’s nothing mechanically, or cosmetically different about the 199. The blue Alpinist doesn’t have the stupid Prospex logo on the dial, and is faithful to the Sarb017. Right now, Seiko’s doing a cash grab of the Alpinist name.. how many of them are there now, 32?

[@BobGolob]

Well, not repeat the same mistake? The new Seiko 5 Brian May Limited Edition looks so similar to the first Seiko 5 Brian May Limited Edition...

[@LastWatch]

Ridiculous

[@grantking6393]

Why is the 197 not sold in USA?

[@LastWatch]

European edition only

[@grantking6393]

@@LastWatch The question was why?

[@MartinBrownFFD]

Paid €608 for mine from the boutique in Frankfurt. Lovely looking and wearing watch.

[@LastWatch]

Lucky

[@watchalot919]

I live in the UK and believe it is the best looking Alpinist to date. I just ordered a used one at a decent price. Ironically the 197 offers the stainless bracelet, which makes it an even better purchase. You have neglected to mention those people who have bought the 197 in the belief it is the limited addition version! I would be a little peeved if I paid over £100 more for a posh box and a number on the back. I will shortly be carrying out a review if interested.

[@LastWatch]

Send me the link to your review

[@watchalot919]

@@LastWatch kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5e4ZqVsZaeoms0&ab_channel=WATCHALOT

[@moorwatch9654]

I have the 197!!!!!! Its Awesome!!!!!!

[@LastWatch]

It really is

[@Star_Sn1per]

Seiko has been going downhill since 2018.. The endless stupid limited editions, the price increases and the same dreadful QC control.

[@LastWatch]

Forgetting their roots and trying to go upmarket

[@jeamxbeam]

@@LastWatch Probably the "smart watch crisis" has pushed them to this decision. After the success of apple watch, statisctics demonstrated that smart watch sales affected especially quartz watches and introductory level watches' sales negatively, while upper range automatic watches sold even better. In the last instance, it think iconic designs of Seiko (including Alpinist) deserve to be priced around 800-1000 USD, but they should put better movements than 6r35. It's a robust and and easily serviceable movement, for sure. But never keeps the pledged power reserve and is not accurate enough.

[@Sumerdini]

Movement is not a professional one, unfortunately...

[@dennisbroekhoven6367]

Nice watch, and your little tac-force knife there it has a nice look for that brand and being a cheap cheap knife

[@LastWatch]

Cheers Dennis

[@XHobbiesPrime]

Seiko really annoyed me with limited edition Blue Alpinist. They REALLY, REALLY annoyed me. So I didn't go for the Glacier. I'm glad I didn't buy it. I think both of these limited editions were stupid ideas. Seiko should have sent all of the LE owners a free bracelet.

[@derekshearer9049]

This Alpinist and the latest Willard are the only two watches l would concider buying from seiko.

[@LastWatch]

Which Willard reference would you choose

[@derekshearer9049]

@@LastWatch. SARB017

[@derekshearer9049]

@@LastWatch. SPB151

[@LastWatch]

I'm with you on the 151

[@Lisa-vj6pz]

I have had the best customer service from Seiko they are very honorable company they've been giving people who love watches the best deals on quality watches that last forever... Example their Seiko fives they have a loyal almost cult following..... But also I know that I want this watch to and I trust and Seiko

[@k.iskandar]

Is Kerryn a big fan of the Alpinist or something?

[@LastWatch]

I belive she buys every release

[@johnsanabria3279]

As an owner of vintage Seiko watches (3) ,I understand why Seiko did what they did. I don't own either model yet, but it was to increase sales--obviously--of what would become a popular model. It would also anchor the LE version of the two for an increase in value and yet give those that liked it with a bracelet a choice. There will also be those that buy both models and can enjoy the watch however they want to strap it. It becomes a win-win for everyone. Let's face it--Seiko found a loophole. Will they repeat this "mistake" ? Highly unlikely.....the embarrassment of a repeat such as this might reflect negatively on future sales of new models,and for the Japanese embarrassment is a fate worse than death.

[@LastWatch]

it was a turn off for many Seiko fans, an error on the brands part that hopefully wont be repeated

[@FuckPedophileBiden]

Yeah when I heard about this I was about to stick a sword in my belly but my kids talked me out of it.

[@BobGolob]

Seiko understood so well that they released a Seiko 5 Brian May Limited edition 2 that looks nearly the same as the first one... Seiko is showing a lack of respect to its customers.

[@LastWatch]

Shockingly expensive to for what it is

[@thisispw]

Great watch, no LE for me. Seiko QC issues keep me away from many models, better value elsewhere.

[@LastWatch]

Where would you go

[@willidevegt8831]

I bought my self the limited edition. and i`m very angry with what Seiko did so angry so that i promised my self never to buy a Seiko again. My reason to buy this limited edition is because i don`t have the money to buy those very expensive (for me) watches like Omega (i love the Omega seamaster) so with this Seiko limited Alpinist i thought to have something special something not everybody will have. And your movie makes me even more angry as Seiko saying they are sorry and they won't do it again but at the same time they make the European only edition to a worldwide available watch. that shows to me what ever Seiko say they can not be trusted and they dont give a Sh*t about their costumers. Also them kind of saying its not the same watch as the limited edition has a number on the case back that's just stupid then i can engrave a number on any watch and sell it more expensive and saying the latest one dont have the straps is also a bullsh*t reason.

[@LastWatch]

You are not alone Willi, a lot of disgruntled customers in the comments here, more than I expected

[@twotubefamily9323]

I'm very happy with Seiko

[@RocasThePenguin]

HA. Just bought the same watch from the same place. Nice.

[@LastWatch]

Hillier Jewellers seem to be pretty decent

[@Trex100]

Interesting story.

[@LastWatch]

Which doesn't seem to be going away

[@eventdomain1]

I like Seiko, but that watch is grossly overpriced at £800. There are several Swiss watches at the £500/800 range for grabs eg: Hamilton Khaki/Jazzmaster, Tissot Seastar or Heritage, Bulova Seaking or Marine etc. Or save the cash towards a Grand Seiko.

[@LastWatch]

All great oprions

[@sashimifr]

Hamilton and Bulova are US brands

[@gH05tM4LL]

The prospex X has really ruined these watches. The whole time watching this all I can think is "yeah if these weren't intentionally devalued with a giant X I would want one of these" .

[@LastWatch]

Maybe they will bring out a limited edition without the X, sign me up

[@watchesinthewild6264]

Notice when the refund was offered they didn't want to give it up. It is indeed beautiful.

[@LastWatch]

Might be the prettiest watch in my collection

[@xchazz86]

Ah i see the bezel and indices are still misaligned. Dissapointing, they turned a watch I thought i wanted to keep into a pawn immediately and never buy again piece.

[@LastWatch]

The bezel on this is polished

[@umutaydogdu1502]

Ethic is important and that’s what Seiko lost in last years. I didn’t buy the limited edition even if i tried to purchase one. Thankfully i didn’t somehow cos if i had i would feel really annoyed. By the way Seiko should stop placing itself to upmarket as it is not. Paying more than $500 for a Seiko wouldn’t make me happy anymore.

[@LastWatch]

It would need to be something truly special to spend £1K + on a Seiko

[@ajdhill]

I bought the 199 from the Grand Seiko boutique and have since purchased a Strapcode bracelet. Whatever I do, I'll be out of pocket. I have two limited edition Grand Seikos and I'm worried they'll re-issue those under a different number. I've lost all confidence in the brand and will be writing to their customer services. It's the last time I buy a Seiko or Grand Seiko.

[@LastWatch]

Let me know how you get on A J

[@ajdhill]

@@LastWatch Will do. I've mentioned the situation to Paul Thorpe who runs a KZbin page. If he makes a video about it, others might follow. I've also left a comment on this guy's video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/n3aYiomLpL-JrbM

[@LastWatch]

Paul normally sticks to the Rolex stuff but you never know

[@ajdhill]

@@LastWatch He said "Thanks, I'll look into it." So you never know.

[@ajdhill]

@@LastWatch Beth called me today and we had a pleasant chat. She said Seiko UK were monitoring the feeling on the Internet and passing it on to Seiko Japan. They are treating every complaint on a case to case basis. She offered to refund me if my watch was in excellent condition so it's packed up ready to be sent tomorrow. Watch this space. Seiko UK knew nothing about the release of the SPB197 until it arrived from Japan.

[@you.8208]

My spb199j1 is not more exclusif. Stupid Seiko

[@nkyryry]

It was a mistake on Seiko. People don’t buy the watch because it says limited edition on the back. They buy it because it’s a limited COLOR... don’t believe me? Slap limited edition on the back of a basic green one and see how many people buy it. People paid more for the LIMITED glacier dial. And then Seiko turned around and made it cheaper, nicer, & unlimited lol. Huge fuck you to their fan base.

[@theguardian3431]

Violent Teddy's real name is Karen and she was very vocal with her complaints you say? The jokes write themselves. 😄

[@LastWatch]

Her name is Kerryn

[@clo2715]

Lol

[@FouseQuentin]

How can I get a refund for the 199J1 bought in france ? For sure I will never buy another LE seiko !

[@LastWatch]

Unless you bought through a boutique, you will have to sweet talk your AD

[@FouseQuentin]

@@LastWatch just did they won't here me out....thank you for your video and answer. I'm really angry at Seiko despite the fact I'm wearing one on a daily basis.

[@scod3908]

I'm just angry that I can't get a blue dial Alpinist now because of the disgruntled whingers seem to have got production stopped :/

[@LastWatch]

No Way, I'm sure these are still available

[@scod3908]

@@LastWatch Have a look for yourself, not available anywhere but the other versions are

[@LastWatch]

@@scod3908 I’ll look into it, I do know that all of Seikos non limited watches only have a finite shelf life, it may just be done

[@callmedru]

Quit buying seiko two years ago, best decision i made

[@LastWatch]

What you buying now

[@callmedru]

@@LastWatch oris and tudor

[@LastWatch]

A pointer date I hope

[@vailmcc]

Likewise! I purchased a Willard when it first came out.. QC issues galore, and I sent it back. SBDC065, same thing. The price Seiko’s asking for one of their weekly ‘Limited Editions’ is absurd. The 199 is no different than any other Alpinist, but of course you do get an additional leather strap for your extra hundreds spent.. woohoo!

[@mattmichaela]

I never buy another Seiko. I’ve had nothing but trouble with mine. Also I don’t like the way they have copied the Rolex bracelet on and the cheap looking dials.

[@LastWatch]

What issues have you had

[@mattmichaela]

@@LastWatch two pogues. Been in and out of repairers ever since I’ve had them. Useless.

[@LastWatch]

how old are they

[@johnsanabria3279]

They've done that before....saw a Seikomatic from 1966 on eBay that could pass for a Rolex. It's what competing watch companies do. Duh.

[@manjunathba212]

May I know how much did u pay for the SPB197?J1

[@LastWatch]

I got a 15% discount

[@LastWatch]

Email [e-mail] and mention the video

[@peterwilson1914]

I got mine too from Hilliers new customers are offered 15%

[@Martinhauer]

I send my 199J1 back to Seiko. I will never buy a Seiko Limited Editions or a Seiko watch....

[@LastWatch]

Strong words Martin, where will your loyalties go

[@davidhobson7851]

I’m done with Seiko, this has totally put Me off buying any more. I’m gonna take a few Seiko fanboy scalps and flip my sarb033 and 017 and put them towards a proper watch, sold by a company that appreciates it customers

[@LastWatch]

I would hang onto the 033, dont blame the children for the sins of the parents

[@davidhobson7851]

The AD I bought mine off more or less ***** me off after Seiko UK said they would help! Useless and were no help at all. They’ll only pay back if the watch was bought through the Seiko boutique

[@daviddesrosiers1300]

If you are mad you paid more for the “the same watch” just stop it. Sell it for what you paid for it and then buy the new one. The limited one is going to be worth so much in the future. The box, the straps, the watch indicating it’s limited and now this whole charade. There are far too many problems in the world with people getting mad over a wrist watch. I love watches but there are more important things. I wish I could afford either of these watches but I can’t. And then the “fans” who just buy ever release that comes out and complain at every decision seiko makes annoys me so much. There’s so many people struggling in this world today just to stay afloat.

[@LastWatch]

The bigger picture

[@fabiandee8178]

ppl who bought the LE were royally screwed by Seiko. They should have made it fractionally different in terms of dial colour at least. Both straps of the Alpinist are terrible, they look awful. I won't use either of them. I don't think anyone I've spoken to rates them. In fact, most ppl seemed to say they'd rather lose a strap and have paid a lower price. It would look so much better than a matt grey leather strap for instance. Tan is the worst possible colour I could imagine for this watch. The only thing that will ensure ppl rate this watch in the future is the LE on the back. A bracelet is much more desirable than either strap IMO. Most enthusiasts will fit aftermarket straps and toss the Seiko straps back in the cheaply made box and put it on the loft. All I was offered by the dealer was a discount on yet another watch lol. I'm not spending even more money to feel less screwed on spending £800 when a bracelet version which is more desirable is available for much less. Makes no sense at all. It wouldn't take large brains to realise this would end badly. They were just being greedy. So you just doxxed someone in your video?? Rather uncool isn't it?? As far as I'm concerned, Seiko HQ Japan are a trash company after this (the downstream ppl were ok) and I'd rather eat tuna and chocolate than deal with them again. Ppl like to slag off the scalpers but at the end of the day a lot of the watch blogs and youtubers were hyping older LEs up and saying how they sold out in hours and you really ought to get in on the action for this one etc. So no surprise a few ppl went mad buying them up.

[@LastWatch]

I'm always a little cautious when these new LE releases come out, on this occasion it paid off

[@edcfyau]

197 should be made available in north america

[@LastWatch]

It's on the way

[@leonidaskaragiannis7875]

What means "limited edition"? Only stress and anxiety. I say to myself, come, quickly, there's no time, I need money for the purchase, soon the watch will be out of stock...

[@LastWatch]

FOMO

[@cryptoengineer9930]

Seems to me that the limited edition is going to be worth a lot more. Seiko have done them a favour.

[@LastWatch]

You may be right

[@fabreezethefaintinggoat5484]

This

[@simonthomas5113]

I'm reasonably new to watches, but limited editions are an immediate red flag to me. The only scarcity I worry about is it one of thirty designs I want to pay for, and I have three of them.

[@stevefox8605]

Awful colour, had the 017 & that's a much nicer hue. Sold it recently because for me it was too small and the 6r15 (& the 6r35 in my Sumo) weren't anywhere near the accuracy of my Turtle! Great build quality tho Pretty disgusting Seiko ripping customers off like that. . Cheers mate 👍🏻

[@LastWatch]

the 017 is a real marmite watch, the dial of the Mountain Glacier should not be underestimated, it looks way better than the pix would suggest. I also love my Turtle

[@freddyfox5002]

Clearly if you don't like it, then you can send it to me free of charge. I wanna help where I can

[@LastWatch]

Luckily I love it

[@lowersaxon]

If you cant resist the unlimited „limited edition“ nonsense and rip off you are not the brightest candle on the cake or totally caught by your watch buying addiction which is disease.

[@LastWatch]

People are always looking for that 'something special'

[@BLAZEREN101]

Everyone here is talking so much fake trash. If only 1 OUT OF 20 had an issue, why are the comments so much in the negative, when for Seiko it has literally been one mistake in a LE line. Get a grip, all these haters have shown absolute no proof they even owned the 199. I myself own the 197, so I’m fortunate seiko made this little blunder. DO NOT BUY WATCHES FOR INVESTMENTS clear and simple. You buy a watch because you want to own it and wear it. Simple, anything else is on you. Limited numbering of shit has gotten out of hand, hell just look at the sneaker world. You watch chumps deal with nothing compared to that. Scalpers and flippers of LE models for profit can go get f’d.

[@tind123]

I’m a woman watching this video 😊

[@LastWatch]

Thank You, good to have you on board

[@tamimaliraqii]

I genuinely wish Seiko can improve and be fair to their loyal customers. It’s such a shame to see this happening from a well known watch company that has made it big in the world of horology!

[@LastWatch]

I think Seiko love winding up their fans

[@tamimaliraqii]

@@LastWatch No pun intended ey? lool

[@FuckPedophileBiden]

Man I've been into whores for ages but never new there was actually a name for it!

[@67tagada]

I had it, it's really shit!. Its caliber is not precise at all!.

[@LastWatch]

Lets hope I hit lucky

[@dennisbroekhoven6367]

Of course her real name is dun dun duuuunnn KAREN!!!!! Just messing around with ya Karen its great to see a woman enjoying the hobby with is. I have to ask though Karen did you ask to speak to the manager? Lol

[@LastWatch]

Nope, it's definitely Kerryn and she has a collection anyone would be glad to own

[@dennisbroekhoven6367]

@@LastWatch my bad I could swore ya said dum dum duuuunnn KAREN lol. It great to have a woman interested and into the watch hobby. What are some of the pieces she has in her collection?

[@LastWatch]

Blame my accent, she is a massive Seiko & Alpinist fan, she runs a facebook page for like minded folk

[@keluizok4906]

Shes a karen lol

[@LastWatch]

She's a Kerryn

[@Psysso]

a Karen :D

[@LastWatch]

Or even a Kerryn

[@brucemcintosh8260]

This is just Plain Silly! You can only wear ONE Watch at a time, or if you wish, one on each arm. I have the SARB017 & i'm SATISFIED with it. Yes, You heard right. I'm HAPPY ☺️! I laughed when i saw the Blue Limited edition! Why? Because i know if the SARB017 has always been BLUE, and Seiko released A GREEN "Limited Edition", then all The Watch Jox would be busting their scrotal contents trying to get one, Right? WAAAAAHHHHHHH! First-World Consumer PsyKick Angst! "I MISSED OUT on The Blue Alpinist, WAAAAHHHHH! "I only got A Strap & he got A Bracelet! I MISSED OUT! WAAAAAAHHHHHHHH! Nobody Wuvs Me! WAAAAHHHH!" GROW UP!!!!

[@LastWatch]

People want what they cant have or choose to hate it

[@NathanChisholm041]

I'd be pissed to if i spent all those $$$ just for Seiko to say F you we are giving the rest a bracelet!

[@LastWatch]

I think the 199 buyers would have been appeased with a free bracelet or the opportunity to upgrade