The Best Seiko Divers Under $500 for 2021: Samurai vs Monster (SRPB51 & SRPD25) Watch

[@jayammons3834]

Comparisons at the price point are a difficult field that being said they are fascinating with how TGV “dives” in. I would love to see a Japan vs Swiss vs German divers under $1500. Or perhaps maybe we could just discuss your book collection. Love the content as always!

[@Dravde]

Almost 2 years since I got my first watch: the Samurai great white (SRPD23). Absolutely love the angles, which if the sun hits them (top part of the lugs and the pyramids on the bezels edge) just right, will turn on a built in disco-ball-mode. Not to forget the shades of blue, which are dependent on the light - from navy blue to a light vibrant blue. And something that Ive not seen on a watch - if the watch is pointed towards a light source, the bezel insert will look like its glowing. This watch with Zuludiver jaywick jaquard weave NATO is just a great summer combo. Otherwise I wear it with other Zuludiver NATO straps or the leather zulus Ive made. One of the contributors to the purchase was the Samurai review video on this channel. Thanks TGV!

[@Primateenthusiast69]

I bought the Samurai as my first automatic watch as a high school graduation gift to myself. Ive had it for over a year and it is still by far my favorite watch. I love its angular case shape.

[@feartheellipsis6608]

Rare to get someone talking about the Monster rather than just banging on about how perfect the Turtle is the whole time. I'm a Seiko fan because of your endorsements, and I picked the Monster as my first Seiko so this is right in my wheelhouse!

[@theurbangentry]

Haha, I love the turtle too, but I have to say, the Monster is way more fun. Thank you, I really appreciate the support. Best regards, TGV

[@oscarosullivan4513]

Still a turtle is a grail for me

[@memelicious1924]

The monster is my first seiko watch too!

[@varanid9]

@@oscarosullivan4513 I have a Europe only Seiko Turtle with the anthracite gray dial (same color dial as the original 62MAS) that has a partiularly "scrunchy" crown that I don't entirely trust (I actually take my watches into the water). My watchmaker doesn't think there's anything wrong with it, but, he says I can just replace the crown and that will probably take care of my concerns. I have too many watches as it is and just don't want to bother. If you want, I'll send it to you just to give it a good home. I think the bracelet is long gone, but I can throw in a nice NATO strap or 2.

[@oscarosullivan4513]

@@varanid9 When will seiko get their QC right

[@NpcFromEst]

Here in Estonia usually new videos appear at 1am 😂 I'm already sleepy, but can't resist the pleasure.

[@Tango_November]

I received a Samurai as a uni graduation gift a few months ago and absolutely love it! One thing I would recommend watching for; there are Samurais with non-Japanese movements for a slightly lower price. Personally, I don’t think it’s worth it, especially for a Seiko at this price point. Get one with a Japanese movement.

[@goldbond1180]

Out of all of the Seiko re-issues I would say the Samurai is the one they get right most of all maybe even an improvement on the original version. Save the Ocean and orange dialled models particularly impressive looking. Love the older monsters more than the recent releases which are a bit conservative.

[@tilio9380]

I have had cheap screw links strip, back out and just outright refuses to go in. These Seiko bracelets are horrid for many other reasons, but the pin and collars are perfectly fine.

[@Aladdin139]

No ...no ..no.... this unbelievable EPIC INTRO .... what can i say !!! I'm lovin' it ...... just lovin'it. Now the question is , how and why u never reviewed the latest Seiko samurai SRPR33... IT'S THE BEST EVER !!

[@NovemXI]

I got the "dark manta" King Samurai a couple weeks ago, and I couldn't be happier with it! It's a beautiful watch and it wears very comfortable on the wrist.

[@ManuelSanchez-dp3th]

I got that same Samurai as an impulse buy not long ago. You are right about the bracelet. I like how it looks on the watch but sizing it was such a PAIN! Its not like regular pinned bracelets, this one had some kind of special little sleeve that was extremely easy to lose. And yes, it adds so much weight! I ended up putting it on an Uncle Seiko tropic strap and… wow, it just made a world of difference. It suits it perfectly, and I think it dresses it up a bit as well while actually making it more sporty at the same time.

[@nemes15G]

Not sure if you've ever done similar but a comparison of the Oris Aquis and it's competitors at around the $1500 - $2000 price range would be great.

[@theurbangentry]

Fantastic idea, thank you Gareth, I will certainly look into it. Best regards, TGV

[@nemes15G]

@@theurbangentry Nice one TGV. My profile pic will tell you where my heart is; own a Carysfort and love it.

[@cjblazer385]

I recently got the black dial version of the monster with the rubber strap for my 40th birthday. I really love and am happy with this watch (yes that includes the cyclops), although I have felt like a bit of a contrarian with how little it is covered and talked about in comparison to other options. So to see this talked about in depth by not only my favourite watch channel but the one that got me first interested in watches literally made my day. Also the rubber strap option is very comfortable and looks great on this watch but I have heard on smaller wrists it is a bit long leaving a lot of tail on the end. So worth keeping that in mind if someone goes for that option and has smaller wrists.

[@nickfoster3637]

Expecting the srpd27 Monday. I haven't been wearing my SKX as often since it was discontinued. Plus the monster is a bit different than other Seiko divers. Keep up the good work

[@theurbangentry]

You are in for some serious fun, not many divers out there as fun. I totally agree what you say about the Monster being very unique. Thank you Nick, enjoy!!! Best regards, TGV

[@mattf5630]

Don’t you think this kind of looks like a “transocean” monster? I kind of dig the look

[@zacharyparis]

I have that exact Samurai. Ended up switching to a Strapcode bracelet which is a step up. Adds another $100 to the watch so there is that. I just couldn’t get the thing to fit right and found the diver extension to be uncomfortable.

[@red75v67]

This particular Sam is the one for me and incredible value on the used market. Great video.

[@Lamattack]

My Seiko Samurai was my first automatic watch! Great to see it featured here!

[@haping1]

I cannot choose, so I have both! Black coated Samurai Save the Ocean and Monster Pinguin. Samurai has a more industrial look and feel, while the dial of the monster is so cool. Love both watches and put them both on a NATO strap. Thanks for the video.

[@ricardochaveste7367]

My favorite of all time is always been the Orange 🍊Monster first generation, I paid $ 59,00 dollars, 17 years ago and I loved it ,I still enjoy it till this day.....yeah you right we need better movement's...great review on this two iconic pieces..👍👍👊..

[@uesugikaru]

Best seiko diver ive owned the samurai and the 4th gen monster. I have the bezel scratched up on my monster and it looks just right. Looks great scratched up.

[@Kittyland123]

Thank you TGV for another wonderful review! I personally really love Seiko, it is one of my most favorite brands! Stay Healthy and Well! Have a Great Day! Nicholas

[@Owen-ri2er]

The white dial Samurai is my personal fave. Love this channel

[@doodler1958]

Great video TGV! I have to say i just love the intro and outro! Pure class

[@punkoid76]

I prefer that black dial variant of the new monster on the rubber strap, looks really cool. I still where my gen 1 orange monster regularly and I’ve never taken it off the stock bracelet, didn’t get your hatred for it.

[@wannabeengineer]

Love your reviews in this price point, and your ongoing episodes with Marc. Always fun and informative! May I suggest the SRPF81/SBDY073? It has an awesome dial and Tuna shape with very wearable dimensions. There are three other colors, and I was able to find one from Japan for under $500.

[@TheShane209]

I like the old monsters personally I’m just not a cyclops fan unless it’s on a date just. The samurai dial really does it for me both are great watches and I’d be happy to have both

[@sturmgold]

Sir, may I say that you look fantastic :) beside doing an awesome job teaching us about the history of these beautful watches. Sending you much love, health, respect and appreciation from Austria.

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much Simon, sending my love and respect right back at you! Onwards and upwards my friend! Best regards, TGV

[@QMR406]

Finally I got the video that I was looking for. Thanks TGV.

[@theurbangentry]

🙌🙌🙌 That makes me happy to hear, enjoy! Thank you, Best regards, TGV

[@jacknjill3000]

Just got a Monster from the bay today. I first thought it was too big for my small wrist. but got to tried one in a store and it’s good also for smaller wrists. It’s and beautiful watch and before i picked this model I was debating btwn. this model and the SRPE27 one with the PADI approval. I think the SRPE25 is better looking.

[@jeremygolden4898]

I picked up the PADI Samurai used last month, it had an aftermarket fully lumed, ceramic bezel. I immediately ordered a Cinturini rubber strap. It's become one of my favorites

[@theurbangentry]

Killer combo!!! I bet it bring you much enjoyment, thank you for sharing Jeremy, Best regards, TGV

[@bazza2708]

That samurai has been on my radar for a long time

[@LaskMaestro]

My favorite? The Turtle Save the ocean. Love the oceanic Blue and the cause/history.. I'm always concerned with hardlex as I have scratched so many watches. What blue divers do you know with sapphire crystal and one with smaller presence (38-42)for my 6.5" wrist? I just love your videos. They take me to a happy and calming place, TGV....

[@watchreviews4k]

Interesting review. Enjoyed it. Keep up the good work on your channel. Regards, #WR4K

[@CarlosSantos-2909]

Great video, production and writing is ace.

[@Grannn]

Hey Tristano, Great intro. I love how you filmed yourself setting up the lightbox. I'm partial towards the Captain Willard. I can't afford one... But I do have a Steeldive 1970 on a Milanese strap and it looks great. Speaking of homages... I'm looking into buying a Smiths Summiter to scratch my Explorer itch :))

[@andromedagodit2492]

Indeed... My preloved Blue Orient Mako II has so much heft n wearability that I couldn't take it off! It gave me so much pleasure n happiness to have it on my wrist! 😁 👏 🤩 ❤️ 😊

[@Romulus8]

Please post more videos like this around the 300 to 500 dollar range.

[@everydaypatriot1083]

It's hard to beat a Monster for durability and ergonomics in a diver.

[@SandraWilliams-wm9el]

Are you single

[@everydaypatriot1083]

@@SandraWilliams-wm9el Happily married.😀

[@PhantomObserver]

Honestly, TGV, I think you should look at Seiko’s new line of sub-40mm solar divers. They’re most likely to replacement for the SKX013 and Mini-Turtle and would be an ideal option for the wrist smaller than 6.75”.

[@chriscon8463]

Great video! Your passion for & knowledge of Seiko is awesome! Also…I usually just keep one earbud in when I’m listening at home; I put both in for your intro!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you so much Chris, very kind of you to say, you are an absolute gent. Best regards, TGV

[@MaroMarenio]

Great job TGV 👍 As always 👊

[@andrecraig3047]

Love these watches & your show 👍

[@rudyharrifshariman5126]

Monster definitely...gorgeous and unique design ...love that concave bezel ....

[@Psysso]

The samurai is more versatile.

[@luykenstouten1145]

I just love the samurai! Slightly chunkier than the monster, I feel, but I personally just love that angular block on my wrist. I am curious though about how I’d feel after gettin’ some wristtime with the monster, since I’ve never had one on outside a shop. Thanks you for the review TGV!

[@AuralVirus]

wish I could find either for under $500 (even under £500 here in the uk), esp a mk2 monster. You'd be lucky to find an skx 7/9 for under £500 now - glad i got my japanese 2019 009 before it tripled in price.

[@tigerbalm666]

Very informative for someone just starting to look at Seiko! Looking to expand collection of Tissot to Seiko and Orient.

[@daveh4925]

I have the monster 2019 and its very nice in person - will get a samurai too

[@lvbajt]

TGV intros: all class and kicks ass

[@jimmccaig7946]

Love both, but my SKX007 still wins hands down. Great episode, smart blazer. Picked up a Douglas Hayward double breasted in the same shade. Michael Caine’s favourite tailor and the man who dressed Steve McQueen in The Thomas Crown Affair. 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@rockymountaindt8410]

I love my gen 2 Orange and my new Padi Monster. I quite like the cyclops on the latter. My only complaint is that it is difficult to choose between the Orange and Padi when needing a Seiko diver, but a good dilemma to have!

[@cb6171]

Just love this channels , production and content

[@PocketUau]

May I suggest the Escapement Time King Seiko homage? You can find it for well under €100 on Aliexpress and I can definitely see an appeal. Just one look at some high resolution images shows its overall quality, and the sweeping quartz movement gives it an odd charm.

[@larryleyba6496]

I love both watches. I'd like to get a samurai someday. I own two generation 2 monsters one black and orange and one black with red trim indices and hands (Dacula). I love them both. Other than my brand new Hamilton Interstellar they are my two favorite watches. I would like to get a samurai. My favorite look on those is either the black and gray one you just presented or the white dial one.

[@caroljenkins7921]

TGV. great videos. I watch every one. Can you get your hands on and review the JLC Master Control Sector dial and explain it's history and rarity? I can't find any and wonder why they are so hard to find. thanks..

[@WATCHDAVIDde]

I LOVE THE MONSTER.... Very great review!

[@mojaslovenija9903]

I don't understand why there was no improvement with automatic calibers in the past 60 years. My watch with the caliber from 1955 (I received it in 1973 as a gift for my first communion from my granddad), being stored until I finished my military service at 19 year old and was then used daily past 35 years - literally everywhere, never serviced with less than a minute error in a month...and it is a watch I can easily wear with my sleeve. Power reserve is 48+ hours. What is important - still in a mint condition, so good built.

[@rudykot132]

That „biutiful” behind you is really nice movie 🎥 ! That’s a shame I don’t have any Seiko yet…

[@Huwberts_Emporium]

For me it's the Seiko Turtle, in particular the original PADI model on a Jubilee, I've recently sold my SKX009 for £400 absolute madness, certainly not that value proposition anymore, a real shame really.

[@jasonmcbain15]

I love my JDM Samurai Great White which has some great detail which you have to really look for (shark fin at the 8) and the gorgeous blue dial.At the mo it's my every day wear.

[@arthurott4561]

I like the dial on the Monster, especially the 2nd generation, but I hate that bezel. It just looks cheap, although the black version looks better than the silver version. I like the Samurai better (I own 3 of them) but I don't like the colorway of the model you featured in this video. Yes, the pin and collar system is the worst! I've spent way too much time struggling with resizing bracelets using this system or crawling around on the floor looking for a collar that got away from me.

[@Zotrax1946]

Marc is doing a far better job with the bracelets of most Islanders.. but still Seiko will reside deep in my heart (and in my humble collection).

[@sobesmith5415]

This video helped me choose Monster. Thanks

[@matthewyonkman5692]

King of intros.

[@derekshearer9049]

It would seem your opinion on the 4R36 differs from many others. Precision and accuracy is not it's strong points.

[@artkingofwholefoods74]

TUG. You are a Time Machine. ⌚️🥋 God Bless you Brother… 🙏

[@jimaosullivan]

Great video as always. Would love to see a review from you for the Black series SNE577P1 - SRPH11K1 - SRPH13K1. Thanks.

[@markmccarthy2876]

Mister Urban Gentry sir I love the content in your videos I have a question what do you think about Luminox watches I have six of them and I wear them all at points and times keep going back to the first one I bought you think that's a good brand or mid-range cuz they're about anywhere from anywhere from 450 to 1500 some safire crystal but not all and I want to replace a NATO strap on one of my watches they want $52 just for the watch band which I think is a little crazy let me know what you think I also have other watches to I have a couple I have a tag aquaracer that I purchased it needs repair a little bit and it's just but it's a beautiful watch but again it's a pleasure watching you and your videos the gentleman from Long Island as well you're both doing amazing job

[@christianmotos]

Quite frankly, as much as it's a pain in the ass to adjust, I'd prefer a pin and collar bracelet than screws. It's in my opinion more secure and less wear. Between the two watches, I think the samurai is more versatile. I'd go for the titanium, though.

[@paulparker4240]

I have the Monster and the 'Save the ocean' Samurai and I love them both, but wear the Monster the most.

[@edhammond6911]

GREAT VID. I love Seiko and own about 20 of them.l would love to see more videos on affordable watches like these. Thanks TGV. SEIKO IS KING !!!

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Ed, Seiko is king!!! 😎👊🏻 Best regards, TGV

[@Scott.f]

Just got my helm full titanium watch 300m automatic nice for £326 with canvas black and grey stripes and rs1 rubber black strap with helm branding, think it nr35 or 36 seiko movement and sapphire crystal 😀.

[@rtbarker]

Seiko has so many great choices, that it's hard to resist catching them all like pokemon. I have skx's, tunas, and some chronos, but the turtle is the one i would pick if i had to leave them all behind. So comfortable with a classic design.

[@theurbangentry]

So so true, thank you Richard. I am deffo a victim of that! But alas, a very happy victom! 😂👏 Thank you, well said. Best regards, TGV

[@rtbarker]

@@theurbangentry thank you for your reply and another excellent video. 👍

[@konradk.2898]

Love your video's tgv cheers 😉

[@theurbangentry]

Thank you Konrad! Best regards, TGV

[@Andy-sy9yl]

The one thing I dont like about the samurai is the aluminum bezel. It just looks so cheap. At least with the Great White Samurai SRPD23 the bezel has ridges and depth. And the Manta Ray has a ceramic bezel which is a very nice upgrade.

[@MisterMeanerOU812]

Crazy question, what is that intro music?? Love it

[@dr885]

I would say it's the diver with 6R15 movement and saphire crystal.

[@fungusfoong9080]

Both are fantastic watches ! Luckily Seiko hasn't gone crazy with the prices for these.

[@popdufc4139]

I've had the same Monster for last few months. I have to try and not wear it as first choice watch. Love the face and as the light dims the lum colour is enthralling. Just a watch but I like it.

[@theurbangentry]

You know exactly what I mean! So fun, hears to many more months, thank you for sharing that. Best regards, TGV

[@lndyrd]

well for me, I have a Samurai, and really like the Turtle (but still don't have one yet). And most likely gonna get a Solar Tuna next. So those are my choices

[@lndyrd]

@TGV there's a scammer even using your icon

[@HaonProductions]

I just wish the Mini Turtle was cheaper or had better specs for its price. It suits my wrist better, I think.

[@ReferenceFidelityComponents]

Imho, the Turtle and King Turtle remain Seiko’s best diver with the Prospex Version still coming in at under £500. All time classics in their own right.

[@alexthomson7465]

Seiko should start offering a strap/no strap option. I don't know 1 seiko owner who has it on the original strap.

[@simonwright6882]

When the king turtle and samurai were introduced it has always puzzled me as to why seiko haven't made the King skx as it is so popular??

[@loganholmberg2295]

I've got a green Arnie and I love it..mostly. The digital features available through the LCD are incredibly dated and the display layout seems like an after thought. So they updated it to solar but didn't thin the LCD GUI and layout couldn't do with so updating? hmmm.

[@liambyrne3488]

Hey TGV, George wants his lava lamp back!

[@scotts5055]

@18:00 I'm an attorney and have to, unfortunately, wear a suit every day, amongst a crowd of other suits. It's like a standard uniform. Therefore, while I agree these divers aren't considered a "dress watch," I also like to wear such watches with a suit for a touch of individuality.

[@bravowhiskey4684]

I just picked up a Citizen Promaster GMT w/ pepsi ring. That Mk2 band would look mighty good on it, guess I’ll have to order another strap. *Sigh* 🙄

[@daniellondon6310]

Why Seiko does not have a diver with no date? Does anyone know?

[@andrewjones5069]

Love my Samurai !

[@dqvidtelford1650]

Sneaky hell raiser puzzle box on show 👍👍

[@JoegerFODC]

Hey tgv, any chance you'd look at the lorier Gemini? Not really satisfied with other reviews and I know you love the brand

[@theurbangentry]

I will deffo consider it! Thank you Joeger, cracking suggestion, however it might be better for my wallet if I don't 😂😂 Best regards, TGV

[@peters2717]

TGV is your wrist 6.25in or 6.5in I swore I've heard you say both.

[@nacmat]

When you mention the turtle at the beginining of the video, you say it is your personal favourite, but are you only referring to the mini turtle? Never saw a video of yours about the actual turtle

[@nodarikirtadze8220]

Tamed beast, you said it perfectly, T

[@kentishbh]

Possible to do a review on spb143

[@jtsnowman66]

I love your theme song!!

[@roberte8564]

Love the Monster

[@indianasunsets5738]

Compare Zelos and Nodus!

[@blackburnheart]

I really the black waffle samurai 😍

[@O1iverL]

Nothing beats the SKX013. Wish they re-introduce it

[@theurbangentry]

YESSSSSSSS!!!!! I totally agree, that would be awesome. Excellent idea, thank you, Best regards, TGV