Seiko, What Are You Doing?

[@gamesetmatt23]

The funny thing is, I never could work out why the SNZ field watches were 42mm and the SNK pilot's watches were 37mm... normally you'd swap that around. Pilot's watches are typically larger, and field watches are commonly smaller. 💁‍♂💁‍♂Guess it doesn't matter now!

[@gamesetmatt23]

@Abe Kamaldeen Heyyy, I'm a winner!! What's my prize??

[@alecs910]

IT looks that you've won experience with scammers 😂

[@adjdani2061]

This new watch only cost $usd 145-150 in my country (indonesia). So, this watch still a good deal😂

[@Chrissepisje]

No-one at Seiko ever said that the SNZ was a field watch, if I recall correctly. That 42mm design was oddly reminiscent of the pilot's watches that the Japanse used in WWII, also produced by Seikosha. The SNK has a dial that was reminiscent of a German B-dialed Beobachtungsuhr, and as such is an oddity coming from Seiko as far as historic watches are concerned. That said, the SNK was not something I ever recommended, because they were only 30m water resistant, which is a shit spec if you think about the 5 basic tenets of the Seiko 5 line. And it had an antiquated 7s26 movement without hacking and handwinding. And the strap was a piece of junk, much like the strap of the original SARB017, for what that's worth. The new SRPG is a lovely 39mm size, the only problem is that it's a bit too thick at 13mm. The 39mm though is a much better diameter, period. It's in the goldilocks zone for casual / sporty watches for many wrist sizes. The SRPH is also much better than the old SNK models in that it has a more functional movement and 100m water resistance. Design-wise they are also much improved: better hands, better length, dial without this weird raised plastic ring of the SNZ, thus leading to a more harmonious look. Ever since the series' inception in the 60's, Seiko 5 meant a watch that adheres to five principles: shock proof, water proof, automatic, day-date and durable. The old SNK never delivered on water proof, so it was a Seiko 4 at best. Even the new 5KX is selling like hotcakes in all kinds of funky versions, so it seems like that strategy pays off. And 100m WR is still ISO compliant. :) So I don't know what this channel's problem is. Seiko is knocking this one out of the park, both in style and specifications. This constant bitching and whining about "jacking the price up" also bores me to tears. Folks always look at the end-game Amazon price of the old model, compare it to the RRP of the new model and then complain that the price went up too far, while sidestepping the improvements and the fact that prices in the retail channel never end up being the full RRP. This has been true for 30 years, and there's nothing new going on today. SARBS also had an RRP of 450 USD, while ending up at 275. Does anyone reacting in this thread or threads like it even know what the actual RRP of the SNZ, SNK, SKX or SARB even was? Meanwhile I never hear anyone whine about brands like Stowa raising prices by 10% per year over the last 6 years, thus ending up with the same flieger you bought for 540,- in 2014 at 1150 bucks in 2022. :) I'm specifically not mentioning Rolex and JLC pricing here either, because luxury and irrationality. Then the complaining about Seiko 5 becoming a fashion watch. Seiko 5's have come in soooooo many variations over the last 50 odd years that you could argue it was a fashionable range ever since the sixties. In fact, Seiko has never had an expressly military range, because, well, because the Japanese don't really boast a lot about military things after WWII. Damn, their constitution even states the military is not to be seen as an offensive force, it's purely there for defence of the realm. In short: I'm unsure why I still bother with this channel because it's a vinegar-pissing in inaccurate "it used to be better before" rhetoric with a click-bait-ish title slapped on top.

[@jessISaRicePrincess]

They should just made a 40mm and 38mm

[@mach78fl370]

Call me crazy, but I actually love what Seiko is doing with the 5 Sports line. They are significantly higher quality than the old 5 line, with better movements and better straps/bracelets. The line is more focused as well. A little higher priced, but still priced right in line with what you’re getting. I have lots of much more expensive watches, and never felt compelled to get a Seiko 5 until the new refresh. Now I have 3, lol.

[@TypeSly]

Okay, Crazy.

[@timoteomeccanicatecnologia]

Makes sense. There were a lot of odd models on previous line, at least these new ones are beautiful.

[@kleinbottled79]

I bought 3 of the old smaller ones as gifts when they were more like $60-65. Now, to get a Seiko automatic movement in a $60 watch you have to get something from the Invicta/Pagani Teir. I'll wear those brands personally, but I liked buying other people at least a name they recognized. IMHO this is a big loss for Seiko AND the rest of the watch world. Is it worth it to get yet another $200 mid tier Sekio line? We already had like 30 of those...

[@TheMonsterHunterTV]

@@kleinbottled79 Seikos best watches are above 400 Dollars. In that category Seiko is absolute unbeatable. Why would you look for 60 Dollar watches with low end Movements?

[@tvang464]

Great watches/price. I think just when comparing to older models they replaced is when people have problems. But like he said, just wait a little for prices to settle down.

[@hmr171]

I'd take a 39mm over a 42mm or 37mm any day. They took two models that looked nice to me, but were the wrong size and packaged them in a perfect 39mm. Two thumbs up from me. Good job Seiko.

[@SeventhShin]

Don’t forget about those of us who prefer the 36-38mm space. Seiko for example does not have a single modern mechanical dive watch under 40mm. From the brand the gave us the SKX013, such a shame.

[@MikeyCh09]

Really love this watch, I prefer it aesthetically to my SNK809 and the 4R movement is an upgrade. That price is insulting though.

[@oscarosullivan4513]

Spammer

[@adjdani2061]

This new watch only cost $usd 145-150 in my country (indonesia). So, this watch still a good deal😂

[@whatsstefon]

The SNK is a good field watch. Small, follows the traditional rules of the Seiko 5 aesthetic and design code and easy to upgrade it with sapphire crystal and an NH36 movement which is what I did with mine.

[@buying_Time]

@@whatsstefon does it fit a nh36 without problems?

[@whatsstefon]

@@buying_Time yes, no problem at all. Just use the movement ring from the original case, and you will likely have to swap over the day and date disc from old movement to the new one.

[@timefliesby-jleo474]

I prefer them over the previous, but to be completely honest, they can really do a better job with the overall heaight of the watch, they don’t need a open case back and they can surely shave a couple of mm to make these around 11.5 to 12mm thick! Cmon Seiko!

[@fletchoid]

Seiko seems to be abandoning the "affordable watch" market. This is bad for Seiko collectors, but great for microbrands.

[@3rdpig]

I think part of it is Seiko's reaction to Chinese companies like San Martin, Cronos and even Steel Dive encroaching on Seiko's "affordable" market share with better specced watches at the same or even a lower price. And when people realize that the affordable Seikos are made in China, then it gets even muddier. I think Seiko has little choice but to abandon that segment to Orient and move the Seiko brand upwards.

[@欧阳霖峰]

Orient is seiko's answer to the "affordable watch" market

[@patrickriarchy6054]

@@3rdpig They should make Seiko their mid to higher tier brand and finally make Lorus and Pulsars as their lower tier available worldwide. Orient and Citizen should both stay a mid range brands for them. Thats how I would re-position Epson-Seiko in the market.

[@adjdani2061]

This new watch only cost $usd 145-150 in my country (indonesia). So, this watch still a good deal😂

[@harkonen1000000]

@@欧阳霖峰 Orient has little to do with watchmaking Seiko. They're pretty distant on the organizational chart of the corporate structure.

[@manasraut9377]

Mate, completely agree with you. As someone with a small wrist, I would love that they kept it 37. Anyway, great video! Keep it up!

[@BrianHartman]

Seems a little expensive for what it is, but I think it's got some good upgrades: 1) Better movement 2) It sounds like a better strap. (You didn't complain much about the strap, whereas the straps on the 809 are absolute shit). 3) Drilled lugs are a definite improvement. I'm not sure it quite justifies its price (especially with just a Hardlex crystal), but it seems like a significant upgrade.

[@adjdani2061]

This new watch only cost $usd 145-150 in my country (indonesia). So, this watch still a good deal😂

[@lukas6610]

i got the sprg27 for 180 it has 10bar water resistance, the movement is great for the price it lags about 6 seconds a day ( i dont have a machine to test this) and has hacking and handwinding. The bracelet is comfortable and looks sturdy with good closing mechanism. I really like the diameter and style. Although i really liked the looks of the snk381 because it looks almost exactly like the mac v sog watches. So i think its def worth the price and agreat watch i dont know if its still the same value though. Things i dont like are the numerals are not lumed and maybe better crystal but i like the slight dome.

[@jarikinnunen1718]

I am new with SNK809. Maybe too small to me. Last hole in belt. Accuracy is good and shake winding not too often. Nice little piece.

[@JusttheWatch]

I'm looking at this a bit selfishly. The SNK was my first automatic, and I really fell in love with the type B flieger style dial. But it was too small for me, and I wasn't a big fan of the handset. I like the style of the hands on this one much better, and the 39.5mm case puts it into my comfort zone. It's still too expensive, but when the price drops, I might be picking it up. But I agree with your rant in principle, it's disappointing to see Seiko's budget range get less diversity in case sizes.

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Hey Dave! This size also fits me better, but somehow I much prefer the SNZG. Looking forward to your thoughts about the wee cocktail time. What a dial!

[@charles_the_elder]

I have bought, modded, and sold/given as gifts probably 20 SNK watches through the years. Fantastic watch for modding. The bezel polishes up very nicely. I will miss that watch.

[@LudekVokac]

I really love the new Seiko 5 lineup and I actually understand and like the approach Seiko is choosing here. I mean, we had the "original" Seiko 5's around for decades and even though there were many amazing models there, honestly, there was nothing new to discover. Yes, that was also the reason why they were so cheap - tried and proven designs, all developemnt and design cost paid for decades ago, so these went just for the price of the fabrication. Yes, my first mechanical watch was the SNZG (that odd cream one ;-) ), I bought a few other 5s since, I also bought the SNK for my father a few years ago. But the line was going nowhere. With the reboot of the lineup, there are things happening. And yes, it's clear that Seiko chose a bit different way here. There will be more shared cases design, being it cost-cutting or parts-bin-optimization, I don't know. On the other hand, there has been a new emphasis on finishes, dial design and other fun elements. And there are models that us watch-nerds can love too. My personal favorite is the DressKX lineup, those are true GADA watches, with quite some variations and a great modding potential. Yes, the Seiko 5 lineup may not be that gateway watch in many cases, but in many, it will. Mainly many of the 5KX models can be a getaway watch not for kids, as some older 5s, but for young ones... Those, who in fact know only smartwatches nowadays. And that's a good thing and I thing a larger audience. Plus there's of course the question what comes next. The lineup is ever-growing since the reboot and I'm really curioust what we'll see next.

[@NotoriousK_I_T]

I'd argue the 'dress KX' SRPE models are the best value Seikos. I've picked up various versions for £130. Great watches and easy to mod now there's plenty of after market parts for it.

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Agree Kit. I heralded it as 'The Best New Seiko In Years' and haven't changed my mind about that either!

[@the_9ent]

Wish it came in at 37mm

[@lulul]

And it's also a different and special design. These new srph models look too generic and the srpg dials are better.. They lost that special thing that made the snk80x be a perfect military on a Nato strap watch.. But the green dressKX could be the new and better field/ nato type watch, if only there was a beadblasted version.

[@Bonpu]

The SRPE with its iconic, bold yet restrained aesthetics and its quite refined case finishing is just awesome! Without the logo I wouldn't believe it's a Seiko 5. Why mod it if it's already perfect?

[@Jorj57]

indeed, the absolute value of this watch is just insane

[@lucitribal]

I'd say it's worth $200-$250 new. Seiko's just asking too much at the moment. In fact, I'd say it's getting too close to the price of the Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic which is a much nicer watch.

[@riverfishing2051]

Totally agree regarding thickness. 13.2mm is ridiculous for a 39mm wide case. If glycine can give you 11mm 200m dive watches, seiko should be able to pull this off for 100m no-bezel.

[@ghettotraveller2027]

That glycine is poisonous, i have one and instantly lost interest with other watch, it so damn thin.

[@balazsracsko1682]

I think Seiko recognized the potential in industrializing the modding of their watches. :) Looking forward to them introducing a full-on watch configurator where you choose the case, dial, hands, movement and straps. This may be too far out for just now, but I think they'll get there...

[@GFWatch]

It's a pity that they used the same case for the 2 series. To those if us with smaller wrist, the new model will not fit as good as the good old SNK due to the 47.7mm lug to lug distance.

[@tjwright]

Yup, the small size was what drew me to the SNK. I actually have two of them... and well south of $100. They doubled the price and messed up the size. I like the 4R movement a lot, though. Had they thrown sapphire in there they would fly off the shelves I bet. Seiko needs to get over hardlex and start putting sapphire in just about everything.

[@malkmuslistener5459]

as far as the 'gateway auto' thing, some people might come to outgrow the SNK 37mm case, while the 39.4mm one, one might grow into it. imo...

[@EricSloferwatchreviews]

Seikos Moving up stream all around but also the case and metallurgy is a bit better with the new watch also they are using coatings that increases the cost along with the basic world economy shifting , just look at food, gas, rent , housing, cars everything has gone up and will most likely stay up.

[@jicalzad]

wow, didn't realize they weren't producing the SNK anymore. Glad i picked one up a year ago or so.

[@nicsamazingpinballchannel7688]

I have one. The half flieger/half field look gets a lot of compliments and wears well, but agree would prefer it to be a bit thinner. Dislike the firmness of the included strap though it is a smart choice of material and color. Bought new for $195... I'm happy with this tooly do-it-all piece.

[@HomerIncognito]

Street prices are generally ok I'd say and they're readily available in the EU now. Even AliExpress watches have gotten more expensive recently and with Seiko 5 I don't need to deal with importing hassle so I generally like Seiko's move

[@alextomlinson1725]

The SNK and SNZG are two of the greatest watches that Seiko have produced. I have both and they were arguably the perfect introduction into the world of mechanical/automatic watches. How Seiko can realistically justify the price of these latest pieces is unknown to me. At $75 - 100 cheaper they would make more sense. I don't doubt the quality of the watches but they seem to run counter to the Seiko 5 philosophy.

[@tornagawn]

Economist advice! Cheaper production costs, but a compromise. I was looking at the older models a few years back….but bought a Citizen Model: BM8180-03E with green canvas strap, under $130 kiwi pesos, because 🤷‍♂️ (maybe because I’d bought a Promaster dive and liked the eco drive concept after paying for an older watch battery change…Animal Ti)

[@Brad-vs1lk]

I think I know why they did it!!! They wanted to create a common size so they could produce both watches from the same assembly line slimming down the process and eliminating one production line. They wanted to increase the price of both watches. They wanted to remove any kind of water resistance indication from the dials so as to steer away those consumers purchasing because they are concerned about how water resistant the watch is over some other model type at least when viewing from above!!

[@philspencelayh5464]

I have 3 Snks, black, green and not so funny cream. I find that although missing hacking and hand winding the 7S26 is more consistent at actually telling the time than the 4Rs that I have. 37mm is fine for me.The SNK809 came on a bracelet for £65 so these new ones don't offer anything that would tempt me.

[@dav2145]

My old SKX007 and 7S26 Seiko 5 unregulated watches have been more stable and accurate long term timekeepers than the 4r36 Seiko 5 I bought. It was OK for a couple of years then suddenly started becoming erratic and seemed to have been affected by magnetism. I had it demagnetized and it soon went wrong again. Demagnetized again, regulated by a watchsmith, and flipped it.

[@leonidaslantz5249]

I like these watches. The 4R movement and the 100M water resistance is a definite upgrade.

[@danielhristov6175]

All I wanted was a 34-38mm seiko field watch with 7s movement and screw down crown… but here we are… Seiko is strictly following the steps of Bulova asking more to give you less… I’d even go as far as to say that they are not much different than random “stylish” brands from Amazon… Forgot their roots, forgot what quality control means… Soulless junk.

[@oscarosullivan4513]

Hear hear

[@acomingextinction]

Bulova is a good comparison. Right now 95% of Bulova's offerings are junk - the only worthwhile stuff they make are their historical reissues and a couple of their high-end limited editions. I suspect Seiko's going to wind up looking very similar in a few years.

[@JasonSimonSmith]

Yeah wow a lot going on here.. The good: Goldilocks size at ~39.4mm - the drilled lugs - and the better movement The bad: Too thick - non-matching day/date window - and a price point that has me looking more toward a Hamilton variant.. Cheers Jody ! Rock on.

[@dougnemeth5249]

I have two snk’s one in green still wrapped up and a cream one that was worn twice by the previous owner... love them...

[@stevemoon2136]

"Seiko becoming Invicta" Sure the fanboys will appreciate that quip. But DEFINITELY fair... $495 is simply ridiculous

[@Scum8ag]

I have the SRPH21 with champagne sunburst dial and let me tell you, this thing goes visually toe to toe with Hammy Khaki. This is miles ahead of SNK case design and finish. While comparing to SNK: +100WR vs. unusable 30WR +4R36 vs. 7S26 +Drilled lugs +Beautiful finishing +Proper size for a flieger This is a watch even seasoned enthusiast can enjoy fully. SNK was a cheap entry with a great dial layout, which they kept and improved the rest.

[@philtullos3823]

Hello, Jody! I enjoyed this rant and, as usual, we are of similar minds. The SNK is not a better watch than the SRPH, but it is so dear to the hearts of so many of us who became infatuated with mechanical watches as a result of encountering it, that it makes me sad to see it be re-jiggered and swole up (both physically, and monetarily) in this way. Such is the eventual fate, though, of all watch styles, eh? I like my blue SNZG11, but I'll never love it like I do my SNKs. Excuse me while I go buy a green SNK. ✌️❤️⌚

[@RichardKoppinger]

I'm glad I bought my two SNZG watches before this. When I got my first one, I was surprised that the movement didn't hack and hand wind, unlike my less expensive Invicta Pro Divers. Still, they're great watches and I enjoy wearing them. When the new versions came out, I was disappointed. Sure, they had better movements, but I didn't see how the upgrades warranted more than doubling the price. Even if I hadn't bought my SNZGs, I can't see myself buying either of these watches. Thanks for another great video.

[@hattyfarbuckle]

Love the two colour lume.... but why lume the second hand on the counterbalance as its 180degrees from the pointer? I have one Seiko an original Monster with raised bezel/ sunken Hardlex. Either this or pure luck has protected it and I wouldn't chance domed Hardlex. This style is close to my Citizen Eco Drive with flat mineral crystal which is about 15 years old and has had a chipped edge to the crystal for about 14.5 years, brilliant movement not worth upgrading to sapphire as its since been pushed all the way down my rotation to only be worn when I'm doing something with extra glass risk.

[@SaffuillaKarman]

I'd go for the Islander field and pilot watch series or the Boldr Venture series. Much better specifications for similar or lower prices.

[@btuthill9653]

Just got the Islander Field Watch. It is a spec monster but needs a new strap the leather/nylon is absolute crap. Put a nato on it it and it is awesome! Hand winding Hacking Sapphire Crystal Date complication Visible back (just cool, no real need)

[@SaffuillaKarman]

@@btuthill9653 No different to any of the Seiko watches I own. Their straps and bracelets are all crap and were the first things to be replaced.

[@michaelcolello2735]

totally want an Islander but all sOLd OuT

[@tk1ngatk1nga]

I have been looking at replacing my 37.5mm Seiko chronograph/alarm 200m WR Quartz’s watch, great looker and tough as nails, have 2 because of a previous replacement as repair would have cost almost as much as the watch new at £145 some 15/18 years ago. Sadly now looking at CWC automatic watches, one simple reason why, watch size, I tend to wear mine no matter what, even when doing sports, so large watches for a small/med wrist is a no no for me. Geed review, great observations.

[@russellharris5072]

For the last two months I have been wearing the Seiko SNK381K1 which I bought for £109.0 or 207.11399 Australian Dollars. I am finding it very difficult to wear any of my other watches,apart from doing the Seiko shuffle every morning,I just love it.The lume is good too.I binned the metal bracelet and used a dark brown Italian leather strap for the 19mm lugs.You should take a look Jody,you may even like it.....................................

[@Dr.Gunsmith]

Iv noticed all watches are inflated lately, just bought two from eBay had to pay more than I expected for a Cronos and a Loreo divers, I hope the new one in your review comes down in price.

[@Yoshi-zt5df]

I usually prefer the pre-"sports/street" models from Seiko but this is one they got right I think. The hands and dial look much more premium, I always thought the previous SNK line looked cheap.

[@bronco1199]

I just recieved a Bulova Hack. 250cad brand new, a bit thick but on my 7.25 inch wrist it helps due to its only 38mm diameter. Gorgeous watch, best strap, good lume, great price. Not the most buttery of feelings when winding but so far so good.

[@Shelby-ig8hw]

Hi! My uncle bought me an srpg29k and I absolutely love it. to be honest, whereas looks have changed the functionality has improved so I think it's a fair trade 🙈

[@AdAce21]

While these “domestic” Seiko releases are extremely underwhelming for the price, their Spirit line is filled with excellent value. Many of the watches in that line have sapphire crystals, great specs, and designs. They’re Japan only, but easily found all over EBay. I’m eying the solar Chrono and the solar wold time. Both look like great pieces. Admittedly, I do really like the look of the "pilot" version, but no way at $200+. If I could get one at $150, or so, that's more reasonable (and then worth throwing a sapphire crystal in).

[@quality_times]

I for one welcome the changes that Seiko decided to do. I think they look way better than the older models. Really appreciate the better movement, and those little details (like the blacked hands). These new field/pilot watches are now seriously competing with the Hamilton Khaki Field line. I decided to go for one of these as the Hammy's are still double the price of the Seiko SRPG. When it comes to their new Seiko 5 Range. I feel like its heavily geared towards the younger generation (I'd say Boys and Girls in their 20's to mid 30's). They even host giveaways on Instagram, where you have to show off the way you combine the watch with your outfit.

[@denisdaly1708]

I'm currently wearing a moded seiko 5, Snk385, lovely watch, regulated, running -4 sec a day.

[@SSS-mp8th]

SNK803 aka funky looking cream one was my first auto and I love it. Tan dial goes with any strap, oddly enough I have it on a genuine alligator in a orange tan.

[@DrSec56]

I wanted a robust daily wear and being more used to automatics, I opted for an SNZG15K1. I am so disappointed. After 2 month, the watch stopped working. after resetting it, thinkin nothing of it, I adjusted the time and shook and it it worked OK for a while. But on the 6th month, it started stopping regularly it does not last more than a day use. Its currently at the dealers for repair under warranty. I am told that I am not the first to encounter to this problem. Maybe I should have gone for the Japanese movement but I did not anticipate this from Seiko and wanted a bigger dial. Hopefully the new movement reduces this problem.

[@watchesinthewild6264]

The 4R movt is far superior - can be regulated to achieve impressive accuracy - these watches are worth every cent of the discounted price they will actually sell for.

[@fubaralakbar6800]

What's the point of lume on the counterbalance of the second hand? Wouldn't you want to lume the tip instead?

[@benjaminhardy153]

Snagged a blue SNK when it was $50, and am wearing it right now. I've always loved/hated the handset. The alpha/lozenge hands are sharp, clear, and somewhat unique, but... The hour hand passes over the middle of the 1 - 12 numerals, and the minutes hand covers 95% of the 5 - ^? The second hand is similarly lost: the tip is perfectly lined up with the minute, but the lollipop just misses the 1 - 12 numerals? It's nice that it doesn't obscure them, but then it doesn't line up with anything... Not sure I like the new handset any better, but they definitely have a more consistent idea of where they belong, which is welcome!

[@varanid9]

The thought processes of the Seiko executive would make a fascinating subject for a scientific study.

[@simplitalian]

Hello guys! So at the end, SRPH or SRPG????

[@chrisbradshaw7708]

You hit the nail on the head, Jody. I get the repackaging of the brand but honestly the prices are ridiculous for what they are offering. There was much better value before.

[@bravowhiskey4684]

I rarely wear my seikos anymore. I still love my blue airdiver, and I have my pepsi samurai. I also have a vintage tan-lume 700j that needs a bezel, and I’m not sure that I will keep that one. They aren’t churning out too much that interests me these days. I’d pick up a pawnshop find, but I’m not buying retail. I have a few microbrands with seiko engines in them, and truthfully it gives me more fizz to play with those. I think I’ll buy the maratac field watch next.

[@nobody2021]

I've owned two of their old classic field watch in the past. First one broke, I don't know what happened to the second one, I think it got lost the last time I moved. Wanted another one and looked at it today. The cheapest one I can find on Amazon now is $140, that is insane. I know there's inflation, and it's been discontinued for a while, so some of that is probably because of scarcity if I had to guess, but that sucks that now as far as I know there isn't an equivalent watch filling that little niche in the market that it used to of a very attractive and modest looking automatic that was good quality for the price, while also being an ultra cheap entry level mechanical watch. If I knew I would want one again, the last time I got one I would have bought two and then just sent one aside in a secure place for when I felt like getting back into it now. The next step up is 200, and the addition of manual winding and hacking it to me is not really worth that. Is not a lot of other watches that I would rather buy for that money, but there are some that are a bit more expensive where I would rather just save the money and put it toward that instead because that would be a fair chunk of the price.

[@creakyboards8517]

i found this video by accident (was searching up Japanese pop musician Seiko Oomori), but, I always enjoy watching channels made for very specific hobbies (even ones I don't partake in), because I like hearing people nerd out about stuff they're very passionate about. Love this video, even though I'm not a watch person (yet).

[@Lord_Flashheart_Woof]

I'm new to the watch game, but all the reviews I've seen regarding QC and price have thoroughly put me off from buying a Seiko.

[@antoniocaputo8220]

I think these two count as different watches. The dial and hands are major parts of a watches appearance, the way they're used and the individuals they appeal to.

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Seems a bit lazy though Antonio, no? Why not offer a few different sizes as well?

[@gipgap4]

Plus points; Domed crystal Orange accents and lume, adding visual interest. Good looking, colour matching strap. Good size for modern tastes. Minus points; Expensive Case is not bead blasted as the SNK series was. A great aesthetic choice for a tool watch. Handset whilst decent in shape and form, isn’t my personal cup of tea unlike my SNK803. Generic case size, the SNK’s have certain charm with a 37mm diameter. Overall rating….I’ll keep my SNK803 and may purchase another before they become harder to find and more expensive.

[@Tee-mq2zn]

Great review but +or-45 secs timing difference pd? Ultimately a watch's purpose is to tell the time accurately but 45 secs either way is going to leave it way off the beat after a few days. Not a major issue if you don't depend on it for that purpose but where it's important it could be a major issue. Tbh, I bought a Casio Duoro after watching your excellent review a while ago so I'm happy!

[@davekloss4884]

I just got this watch, and man is it great. What's Seiko doing? Taking Everything that was great about the SNK and SNZG, and putting them into one single optimized watch. Sure it costs more, but for my taste/wrist at least, I've got something I can see myself wearing long-term, instead of looking down on my wrist at the SNK and SNZG and saying "If only...." This SRPH29 is the optimal size for my wrist. Hand-winding and hacking. I love the brushed case, and the porthole see-through case back has that cool spec sheet around it. The Flieger B dial has also noticeably upped its game compared to the SNK. The length of the hands are great and clearly well thought out. Each of them connects/aligns with a dial element. The SNK doesn't do that. Those orange lume drops now offer an orientation in low light, i.e. early in the morning. I also love how the baby blue Saturday and red Sunday clash with the dial colors. Not everyone's taste, I'm sure, but a vibrant dial nevertheless.

[@tek-j1e]

Amazon had some seiko’s on sale around Xmas, I got an SNK805 and SNKK27 for $100 (aud) each. Solid deal whether they’re for modding or wearing as is.

[@tonyanguiano9120]

Bought a seiko 5 with the same movement. Started out at +5 seconds a day but has dropped to -10 after about 6 months or so. Super happy with this watch considering the price and that it hacks. I am wondering if I should try regulating it myself to get it closer to what it was? It seems easy enough to do. Anyone out there regulate their own seiko5?

[@williamsmith9561]

Could have made the upgrades to the SNK and the SNZG and kept everybody happy as ZCherish already mentioned. The 4R is a solid movement and the hand winding and hacking deserve a small increase in price, but not the price advertised. For me personally I don't buy watches above 40mm because I don't like the look even though I have a 7" wrist.

[@Anirossa]

Ordered a old 42 mill model (green), returned it and ordered the cream one that came last summer, the 20mm bandwidth a big thing for me, as well as I like thr better details, like the texture, and sticking up arabics Got the SRPG for less than 200 USD before shipping and import tax, so ended up on 240 ish euros, sth I'm happy with.

[@johanbertilsson2213]

I also have a Seiko SNZG13J, green, i bought it with a metal bracelet, it was the only one my local watch dealer had. I changed the metal bracelet to a green nato strap, and put a compass on. It is still one of my alltime favourite watches. Perhaps i should visit my watchdealer agin and ask for a SNK while they are still around. what i like with the older ones are their hands and their apperances, what i dislike but can live with are the Seiko shake to start them. In Sweden the Seiko SRPH29K will cost 3298 SEK, in Australian $ it will be 493,10. In my world the SRPH29K is a flieger type B and not a fieldwatch.

[@davidbreckler5327]

Funny...I just bought the Cream dial Fleeger today. You missed that one. I want to put it on a medium brown leather strap... I have all of the SNK and SNZG's....

[@Ohne_Silikone]

As an avid lover of the snk809 and 803 (yes, I like the sand coloured one the most), I am very sad about the resizing of this watch. I have 16cm wrists and the new watch is simply too big for me. I get that the bigger size is more becoming of a Flieger, but still it comes with some major negatives as well. I think the Snk803-809 was always a watch that was easy and comfortable for every day wear. It had a certain simple playful elegance to it. Yes, the upgraded watch has a better fitting set of hands and especially the different colour lume is a vast improvement for reading the correct time at night, but much is lost in bulkines and the case is brushed, and lost it mat shine.

[@MOsesIcan]

Picked this one up a few days ago, at a fairly decent price, still not amazing but definitely doable 250eu (it is what it is). However I found it very charming and inviting In person. Honestly it was exactly what I was looking for. Rugged enough in look / style for day to day use, yet clean enough to accompany a step up in “ aesthetic “. The green is darker than it is on camera and in pictures, that it’s almost elegant. The rough texture of the dial is really lovely. And indeed surprisingly enough I fell in love with the legibility of the face via the sword/syringe hybrid hands. Practically perfect. Again it’s only been a few days but it’s really growing on me. I particularly enjoy the highlighted orange pips. And the lume sufficient enough for night use after one quick charge. All in all I’m actually satisfied and the quality of the watch is almost visceral. Happy I picked it up and it is probably going to be my main day to day, and even may replace my tissot chrono… TBD. I can understand the legacy mindset and I also wouldn’t have minded a further price cut, however this watch almost feels it’s price and I’ve quite shockingly gotten several compliments on it already which usually doesn’t happen even for more pricey watches in my collection. So ultimately I say It wears great. Looks just right. Its comfortable to wear. 7.9/10 would recommend (Will update if anything changes)

[@markgrieves1307]

We get stiffed on prices in the UK Jody too, Brexit or no, which this wouldn't affected by. I've noticed that for Seiko and Casio this is the case plus the lack of model variations and colours. The small, older flieger type, I bought two of those from Singapore. Slow boat postage and no import duties and taxes. ✌️

[@richarddsmarais3865]

Jody, check out Tandorio, military style 24hrs dial, 39mm, nh35 or pt500 (paid $118cdn...for the PT5000), except for the strap (too short for my 8 1/4in wrist), absolute great bargain for this style of watch and btw, runs at +1 sec a day.... Cheers

[@paddypower5965]

I brought my nephew an SNK for Christmas 2020. They're great watches for teenagers or were I suppose as the value isn't really there anymore, not in Ireland anyway. I actually like the new sizes and them being the same across the two models in fine with me as it's a great size for my wrist. They're good looking watches as well in fairness.. I'd definitely like the all black one. But the Seiko tax is tough to swallow. I think I'd save a bit more and buy a Hamilton Khaki Field especially the mechanical.

[@oscarosullivan4513]

I agree Seiko are ripping people off

[@paddypower5965]

@@oscarosullivan4513 I don't think they're quite ripping people off but the value and QC should be better.

[@adjdani2061]

This new watch only cost $usd 145-150 in my country (indonesia). So, this watch still a good deal😂

[@robcrochet2025]

If this were any other brand, $275 is exactly what we would expect for such a package. The only reason it seems expensive is because we can’t help but compare it to older models that have been around so long that they have been reduced to the price of their base components.

[@buying_Time]

And inflation has priced them out of the market. I think it is a valid strategy. I need the size of these older Seiko 5 watches though, that is what brought me to Seiko and made me stay. Fashion should turn around. I don't need a plate on my wrist.

[@robcrochet2025]

@@buying_Time Agreed, more 36mm watches please!

[@casualsuede]

I've always been curious, on the second hand is the orange end or the lollipop end the correct marker. In daylight, my eye moves to the orange end but it is not visible in the dark.

[@csongormartonszutorisz-szu3999]

I like the looks of this one better. It seems it is more detailed. Does it have AR coating on the crystal?

[@alduswong]

I just bought an SNK last christmas. Should bought it in 2007 but forgot about it until last year. I have a 6 in wrist, small watch actual looks good on my wrist.

[@jim2950]

Is a Seiko counterfeit still a counterfeit if it has a Seiko movement?

[@JonasRoskilde]

Hi I noticed something slightly disturbing is that triangle in line with the orange dot? Maybe it’s the angle or my eyes or is it one of Seikos usual malevolent quality control mishaps?

[@gusreyes5447]

Seiko just upgraded and did a good job at that. The case so much has a semblance from the IWC pilot watches which appeals.

[@Sneka97]

You ask yourself why the SRPG and SRPH are so similar and why they made it in the same dimensions, but if you look closely they have the exact same case. Seiko being a massive corporation is looking for ways to cut cost and streamline production, so making two models with the exact same case and movement is a no brainer for them

[@pmckinlay653]

Wearing my SNK603 dressish watch right now. Lovely little piece, and I blame you, Jody. Good job!

[@nineteenninetyfive]

What i think about the new Seiko range is that no matter what they list them for, the market will decide their true value. If they can maintain a price near to what they are being listed at then we just have to accept that their watches were undervalued in previous times.

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Ahhhh, Adam Smith's invisible hand. A fellow Scotsman with an eye for value. ;)

[@jimwatchyyc]

But an “invisible” hand should be worth more though - I’ve not seen that feature on any other watches. Mind you, I shouldn’t be able to see it, lol.

[@darrensmith6999]

Mmm think i would go for and have gone for the NH35 BUREI Sapphire glass ETC

[@athanasiosplomaritis3632]

I do like the new ones...!! I wish they had low price and also a sapphire crystal instead of mineral glass....

[@markirvin2809]

Have you noticed that the serial number does not follow the old format - year, month and number. Mine is 562255, and I see that yours is 57 etc. I read somewhere that they are not using the old system as the new numbers are something like batch numbers. What do you think?

[@thistleclockworks1292]

Before they announced this version, I did one better and built my own. I took my loveable SNK809 dial, hands, with the day/date wheels and placed them atop the stock 4R36 movement of a used eBay SRPE67K1 (the Dress KS with the brushed bezel) and created the better flieger. It's bigger than the SNK and more manageable than the SNZG for my hobbit-sized wrist. Plus it maintains the 4 o'clock crown missing on the new version. To maintain the correct look, I needed an aftermarket brushed chapter ring. Event considering the cost of the two donor watches to make the one, it cost less than what Seiko want's for this one. When I saw the new SBSA/SRPH (depending on your country) I thought they were too expensive for what one gets and misses the gateway watch opportunity as you noted. The black/orange variant is an interesting addition to the line, but it misses the field esthetic - very close to an '80's black and orange auto instrument panel vibe, but misses that mark, too. Lastly, I prefer the hands of the the SNK, though the new sword/syringe style is an acceptable choice for a classic flieger look. It is interesting to note that, Seiko still didn't do for the SNK/SNZG what everyone wanted them to do for the SKX: Keep what we loved of the old model and upgrade the movement and crystal. Would anyone really fault them for a MkII of these classic timepieces?

[@ZCherish]

I think it's really funny that you mentioned that the watch is worth about $175, because here in the states, when this watch was released, almost immediately it started showing up on gray market retailers for almost exactly that price. I also think Seiko is stuck between a rock and a hard place when it comes to listening to customers: the SNK80x line is great, but as much has 37 mm is a positive, a lot of people saw it as a drawback because they said it was too small, and the SNZG line was called too big at 42mm, even though, as you say, there are people out there who won't touch anything under 40mm. What they may not have seen however is that the people who bought the SNK line bought that line because the SNZG line was too big, and vice versa. Now I'm not sure if no one or everyone is happy. But again, just like the SKX, all they had to do was put the 4R movement and an updated dial and handset in (and those drilled lugs) to the SNK and it would have been stunning. None of this matters, of course, to anyone buying these because they are fashionable, so maybe all this is a moot point.

[@mariusswart7257]

Why couldn't Seiko line up the line seperating the day and date with the circle on the dial? Would look so much better in my opinion.

[@paulgoldblatt1110]

They managed to obscure the shiny applied indices on the new field watch with a muddy, murky crystal. I have the old SNZ 42mm, and the dial is clear as a bell. I have the new field watch version as well, and only in bright light can I see the dial properly. Perhaps it's called Hardlex because it's so hard to see through.

[@stevenwymor1398]

It’s thicker because of the domed crystal and the display caseback to get 100m WR. I think it’s a better watch all around compared to either the SNK or the SNZG. Better movement, better water resistance, better case and dial finishing, and most importantly, better fit. The SNK was too small. The SNZG was too big. I’ve owned both. Sold both in short order.

[@cybr600]

Thanks Jody for reviewing this. 10:09 how is this robust when typically Seiko entry movements have a huge accuracy variation even in one orientation? I actually don't understand when people call Seiko movements robust. Yes, I get it, they are reliable meaning they keep working with less maintenance but robust? No way.

[@jjjensn]

Nice watch, but I really do not like that single domed crystal. A slightly double domed crystal gives far less and much nicer reflections

[@silentone11111111]

I prefer my small original. It was my entry watch and very happy with it. At 1/3 of the price.

[@doifeellucky]

The 4R movement is pretty terrible based on my experience. I’ve got a turtle and it was losing right on the limit every day. After a couple of weeks it was 6-8 minutes slow. I got tired of resetting every couple of days or setting it fast to compensate. I also tried regulating but that was so hit and miss. I got it to run slightly fast but then it just went back to running slow. It now just sits in a drawer.

[@philspencelayh5464]

That's my experience of 4Rs too. Buy at sale time and you can get Swiss at these Seiko prices.

[@thomasa.243]

What I have noticed with the 4R and also 6R is that they run like 💩 if they have stopped. My Turtle for one time ran +5 minutes a day and I was like: "I regret buying that..." but then after 2 days it suddenly went to +2s/day. I don't know why that is the case and what has happened here but I have heard that from a lot of people. Maybe it has to do with the materials they use for the balance spring?

[@doifeellucky]

@@thomasa.243 Good to know. I’ve actually put it on and am giving it another try. I noticed it tends to be better on wrist too.

[@Max_Mustermann]

I have the cream/khaki SNK. And while I didn't like it at first in photos, it looks quite nice in person, especially on a brown leather strap. It is also the perfect size for my small wrist.

[@joeg5023]

I normally agree with you, but I guess I'm in the minority because I like both of the new ones better, visually at least. I just got the SRPG35 and I love it. I wouldn't of minded if it was 41 or 42 but I still love it.

[@betac0re]

My personal monk find it annoying that the circle on the dial doesnt properly close with the day/date complication. If they would have set the day/date window just a mil to the right....

[@dominicsmith7793]

Works well for me - it's brushed and not bead blasted (easier to polish out), 39mm in size, which makes it perfect for small wrists, 100mm instead of 30mm, ideal for the more adventurous types out there, plus it's an attractive watch made by a reputable company. Negatives...mineral and domed crystal so that's possibly tempting fate, but if you're careful, it should serve you well, and when it gets bad enough to bug you, a Seiko sapphire mod (done by yourself or watch specialist) is relatively easy to do.

[@captbumbler5356]

Hi Jody, Enjoyed the rant all the things I would have moaned about too. Seiko have now moved out of my price range unless they make something really special. you would think if the price goes up they would be using sapphire crystal by now