The Perfect Affordable Rolex Explorer II Alternative - Seiko 5 SBSC009

JDM Seiko 5 SBSC009
Get a T-shirt: justthewatch.com
AFFILIATE LINKS
AMAZON STORE: www.amazon.com...
Deals on Seiko Watches from JOMASHOP
www.jdoqocy.co...
Deals on Hamilton Watches from JOMASHOP
www.tkqlhce.co...
Straps shown in this Video:
Caseback Watches Strap #2: www.casebackwa...
Artem Sailcloth Strap: artemstraps.com/
Uncle Nylon Strap: unclestraps.com/

[@jroobz]

First Seiko I've wanted in years

[@PINKFL0YD-s2h]

Using the well known seiko seconds hand as a GMT is genius! This looks so good.

[@vaclav_fejt]

Oh! It's the Willard second hand! Why didn't I see that! I've praised that GMT hand design since the release - finally something different than the Rolex/Seiko arrow.

[@Ego_Katana]

Really? it gives me franken-watch vibes. the second hand is same as the monster.... It feels lazy design to me. Like a bunch of boxes of parts. The bracelet does not fit the style and makes me want to punch a baby. Maybe the monster bracelet would look better. Dont get me wrong... I LOVE Seko and have 4... but help me want to like this more...... I wish the hands were unique to this watch .. maybe use Alpinist hands??????? *chef kiss*

[@vaclav_fejt]

@@Ego_Katana I don't see the issue with the bracelet... And this 5 Field is much like the 5KX GMT or Alpinist GMT: They incorporated a GMT complication into an extablished design. From my point of view, it would be a frankenwatch with Alpinist hands.

[@Spurdospaerde692]

I love the general style, but the mirror metallic finish of those indices/numerals spoil it all on a utilitarian field watch meant to always be easily legible. Some Seiko Alpinists from recent decades had the same major flaw - polished indices. When the GMT Alpinist came last year, with matte brushed indices, and then a green JDM version, I jumped at it! Perfection.

[@gustavomoga224]

Do you remember the model number of your alpinist?

[@toddsmith8608]

​@@gustavomoga224he may be referring to the SBEJ005 which is a nice looking watch but currently $950 usd on ebay.

[@TheLumeRoom]

This white dial is cool. I done a video review of the black dial and I love it! Great work.

[@WatchWitt]

Such a great looking GMT! Reminds me of the dial I love so much in my SRPG39, but adds this killer orange GMT hand. This white dial JDM is my favorite of the lineup.

[@adk7962]

Hands down my favorite affordable Seiko right now. Still upset that I have to go through a reseller to get the polar dial; although that’s probably cheaper than moving to Japan…😅. Thanks for the great review.

[@Roddy1965]

I got an SRPG last year, and it's hardly talked of, so it's nice to see it influencing this hot new offering. I knew I had a nice field watch. I would have gotten this GMT version has it been available.

[@MichaelMitchell-vk9lk]

141K subscribers,Congratulations Dave,God is blessing you

[@ajmarion]

I dig the white one, will definitely be importing one when they’re back in stock

[@CyberSammael]

I really appreciate that you didn't hype this up as 'a Rolex Explorer II killer' and set out what a good alternative is and what to reasonably expect. It seems that a lot of channels are trying to overplay alternatives and comparisons and it misses the positive qualities of these watches.

[@poomsiraprapasiri8448]

I already have a Seiko 5 Sports GMT (SSK003) so I can't justify getting this one too, but it looks very nice.

[@RedwoodAggie]

These are cool for those with tighter budgets. I'm a bit surprised the white one is JDM only. I'd rather see black numerals and hands for contrast for sure. As the owner of an Explorer II, I do highly recommend them if you like it and can squeeze it in the budget.

[@bencze465]

I got the black version. It's one of those watches that look better on screen I would say. It's also a little bit too small, I defo can't read the date number with my eyesight. Other than that let's see, I like the esthetic and in black it's kinda simple which is good.

[@DiamondDog1]

Not sure about the GMT...Im very happy with my SRPG39, its just settled itself into a + 1½/2 sec a day watch...I bought a Leather Band Wrist Pad which is the same as the watch strap and it looks great. OH...Great channel by the way...Cheers.

[@MaartenAnna]

I looooove this white dial version. I wish they sold this in the EU. I’ll think I’ll build my own Seiko Mod using the NH34.

[@terryloh8583]

Great review, and that's a great looking watch. I love Seikos and I love the style of this watch. In the sub $300 price range, I'm perfectly happy with the Hardlex, pressed clasp, and unsigned crown, but when the price goes north of that it starts to bug me a little, especially when Chinese brands offer all those features for less. Oh and a personal pet peeve of mine is how the standard is for 24 to always be at TDC. Putting midnight at the noon position bugs me. I would much prefer '24' or '0" at the 6'oclock position. But maybe that's just me.

[@scottsalom3891]

Really, u like looking through a scratched crystal?

[@shawno3848]

SSK023 if you want the black dial. I love mine!

[@amitjayakumar]

I like the watch to be a bit thick as it feels more substantial - this is such a beautiful watch. Thank you for the review.

[@CarlosGallardoCandia]

Oh my goodness! I'm going to Japan in just a couple of days... this is perfect timing! I think I know what I'm gonna get over there. I hope I can find one, though!

[@Colorado_Ronin]

I’m sure you’ll find it at one of the duty free watch shops in Akihabara. Maybe

[@crisantogarcia6646]

Yes would like some recs on where to buy Seikos in Japan

[@ahmeddghaies6246]

Hi 👋 was it available eventually?

[@soulside]

Just got back from a month long trip in Japan. I went to 5 Bic Cameras (in several different cities) and they were all sold out of the white dial. I did however pick up a black dial GMT for my father for $250. I highly recommend Bic Camera if you carry a foreign passport - the discount is huge. On my last day in Japan I finally found one in the Ueno neighborhood in Tokyo at a small jewelry stall. That one cost me $275.

[@rcorrino]

Did you find one? My son was in Fukuoka for six months. I am lucky he found one for me a week before he was to go home. He said he went back the next day to get another one for a friend of his and the store said they only got the one that he bought. It seems that Seiko is producing these in limited quantities and even in Japan it is hard to find.

[@ReflectionsonFaith]

Great review, Dave. I'm also a big fan of the Rolex Explorer II Polar, and I agree that this does a nice job of capturing some of that aesthetic without being a direct homage. It's a really nice looking watch. 👏👏👏

[@earlbee3196]

I just picked up the SEIKO 5 SBSC009 Field Sports GMT Mechanical Automatic Watch , White dial.

[@gustavoheberle6265]

Thanks for an honest review ! I love Seikos and this one is going to my wish list.

[@ricardochaveste7367]

Stunning Dial, thank you for reviewing this GMT, Seiko Dave. It's not bad, except for the imperfections ather than that great watch ⌚️..

[@MrLeandroRJ]

Incredible Sailcloth Artem Strap.

[@christophermackenzie6190]

The camera work is insane! good work : )

[@TheFatLobster]

Currently, the demand far exceeds the supply in Japan (heard from a japanese ebay seller) and they are actually gettimg harder to find for cheaper prices. I just ordered one for 450 usd and so far have been happy with the purchase. Time will tell what'll happen with the prices. My guess is once the current supply ends we will see some scalpers raise the prices before Seiko ups the production.

[@robertfeast7691]

Love this. IMHO it looks better than the Rolex Exp 2.

[@joeycan6801]

Love your channel…… When Seiko does it it’s great, when it’s Pagani, Steeldive, Addiesdive etc, etc, it’s bad….. don’t get me wrong I like Seiko, I have 6 of them. Thank you

[@perryl3476]

The internal 24 hour markings is the deal maker

[@aubsta1]

Some countries use the 24-hour format. It's not only for the military.

[@zwalada]

Yeah when I go to Japan I'm going to keep my eyes out for this one

[@amann24]

I know it's around double the price, but the Christoper Ward C63 GMT blow this out of the water. It's much closer to the explorer 2 than it is to the Seiko in my opinion.

[@chrisdavis8399]

💯. I love and collect Seiko watches and I bought the CW you referenced last year. It’s damn near perfect so won’t be buying this Seiko. Cheers!

[@amann24]

@@chrisdavis8399 It's on my list of watches to buy. It's a sensational watch. The bracelets are superior too

[@edselsugay4768]

I’m trying to convince myself that this watch ain’t special and got nothing interesting going on. I keep trying to convince myself. I really am trying. Really trying. I’m now browsing the gray market and checking my bank account while I’m still trying to convince myself that there’s absolutely nothing special about this watch. Just another Seiko masquerading as something that punches above its weight. $430 you say? That ain’t special. I wonder how much shipping will be for this not-special-watch.

[@TheFatLobster]

I was im the same boat, ordered one today...

[@DJModsChannel]

Not a single youtuber has mentioned the significant colour difference between the case and the bracelet

[@quannytran]

These B roll footages are hard

[@ColdComrade]

I could’ve bought this watch at around $380 USD before taxes and fees from eBay before release. After the release date the price went up way over $500. Now I’m watching the price go back down before I finally buy it.

[@cesarmenosaba8609]

Good video. Love the watch. Can you recommend Japanese website to buy this model? I live here in the USA. Thanks Dave

[@EulahFellezs]

Picked up a MAMACOO's watch as my first watch last month and I’m absolutely in love with it. Perfect size, looks elegant, very comfortable. Now my only problem is holding off from buying more watches so quickly!

[@AresCosmos137]

I like the 24 hr markers. I would keep them.

[@daveebertz4206]

Awesome watch! Do you happen to know the name of the Artemis sailcloth strap that was shown?

[@WristSaga]

Great review, Dave! Thank you! You convinced me to get one. I could live with the mark on the 9 hour marker if on mine would exist one. I love Seiko watches and I had the chance to review one on my Wrist Saga KZbin channel that also offers a great alternative for a Grand Seiko. Seiko have always been that brand that offered us alternatives for the more expensive brands.

[@andrewd7586]

Here in Australia the silver/black dial version & the DLC coated black model have already been on sale here at $399 AUD or about $260 US! Dramatic price drop so soon after release. 🤔

[@rad0230]

Do you have the link? I’m assuming the ones we get are Malaysian made?

[@andrewd7586]

@@rad0230 Sorry there’s no link. I just searched online here in Oz & it happen to come up. It wasn’t for the white dial though.

[@tikitavi7120]

That splotch on the numeral would drive me insane...

[@Kenji-Tsuyoi]

Looks a lot better then the regular black dial version

[@JohnBowl14690]

It's hard to find the white one for less than $500 right now. Nice watch. I'm thinking about getting one. Arguably better looking than the Rolex.

[@Klaxet]

I wonder if it is possible to change this lens and upgrade it to flat sapphire crystal? This domed lens looks plasticy and cheap to me plus it makes it thicker.

[@sanji8142]

The fact people are going to look down on you because you can't afford/aren't willing to spend 10+ grand on an explorer 2 or any other rolex is simply disgusting. This new Seiko has more differences than similarities to the explorer 2, yet people are still going to call this a ripoff, same thing for the Speedtimer, it looks completely different than the daytona, yet since it has a panda dial configuration, it's a Daytona copy

[@PINKFL0YD-s2h]

Anyone who really looks down on others because of the watch they wear has very serious issues. They need a psychiatrist

[@muhammadizzatmohdhayazi4706]

Well said!

[@brianmurphy8154]

True and what’s funny, the people that would do that usually don’t own the explorer ii either…

[@sanji8142]

@@brianmurphy8154 Rolex Marketing just influenced the whole watch market almost irreversably. I'm just at the start of my watch journey, I own a simple seiko 5 everyday/dress watch, and every watch i see i compare it to a Rolex, I just do it automatically, for example the Seiko 5 gmt with the bidirectional bezel. On that watch I would probably replace the crystal with a non-cyclops one, first I hate cyclops and second I would eliminate one of the biggest similarities to the Rolex Gmt master.

[@chicagotypewriter2094]

Well of course, if something looks similar, people are gonna think they’re basically the same Like Spanish colonial style and French colonial style. Of course there’s differences but when you visit NOLA, you don’t notice If the biggest (and its very big) similarity is they look the same, well no duh people will say they’re close to each other

[@brianmsahin]

Is the white dial still supposedly a JDM model Dave ? I see both this and the black dial available for sale here in Turkey. I bought the black steel one!

[@davidbalakirev5963]

So which one is the non GMT version of this watch? Thank you!

[@StrongZeroPowerHour]

I tried both on at the store and I have to say I like the black dial better. however, I feel like I have to get the polar because its JDM...

[@jb678901]

My Steeldive SD1994 just arrived. At only US$120 (incl. delivery), this watch is a real bargain! Sapphire crystal, ceramic bezel, jubilee bracelet, 200m rated water resistance, SI NH34 GMT movement, S.S.316L case and bracelet, BGW9 and C3 lume on hands, dial, and bezel. Lume is really strong, as expected from SD. Mine has the sunburst BLUE dial with orange-numbered/black bezel. Love this color combo. Another terrific watch from SD that's at an incredible price point.

[@elbebe1000]

Did you used a code? My goes for $165.00 way too high. Thanks, Yashin

[@AX7razor]

The problem that I see with Seiko’s today is that they really don’t represent value anymore. If I spend around 100$-150$ more than this watch I’m getting a lot more from micro brands. For about 600$ you can get Lorier with a flyer’s GMT, milled clasp, screwed in links and pretty much the same/greater level of finish. You also get a Miyota 9 series movements which in my opinion is better than the 4R series of movements. You also get a brilliant lume and with dual color application I also don’t see the point of the 24hour scale on the dial. The dial is personally too crowded for me.

[@TheChadWork2001]

No because of inaccurate 4R34 and Hardlex. Yes if 6R35 and Sapphire

[@CaptainWillard830]

To quote Tony Montana, “It’s a cream puff.” I want one! It’s going to be Big in Japan

[@chrisfox2211]

I absolutely LOVE this watch

[@alejandro110511]

I wish this was sold in the US, it’s a really nice watch

[@2arkeating]

Nice watch. Anything you can think for an affordable Omega Seamaster Aquaterra? Cheers

[@ColdComrade]

I love the look of this watch but I wouldn’t spend 400+ on a watch just yet. I did on my Apple Watch but I use that every single day and I justified that expense. This would be more of a gift to myself. As men we all know we could blow money on something we like but we choose not to because we have responsibilities to take care of. I’ll probably save up $50 a week until I can comfortably purchase it.

[@perryl3476]

If it had the day function. I would buy it

[@Hard_7_Iron]

Wow! The JDM is really awesome! ❤

[@_urahara_]

This is a great watch from Seiko. I just worry that even though Seiko still offers affordable watches, the desirable ones are getting more and more expensive to the point that most enthusiasts can no longer afford them. I've seen more and more people being drawn to homage watches from Pagani Design, Steeldive, Addiesdive, San Martin, etc. because they offer the same movement but with a much lower price, sapphire glass and in most cases, even better finish.

[@rcorrino]

The problem with the Chinese watches is the regulation. San Martin has been pretty good but the cheaper Coregut, Steeldive, Addiesdive, etc, need regulation ot of the box.

[@vuelanola8618]

Beautiful watch, unfortunately very difficult to find in Europe. They only released it in Japan, I don't know if they will release it in the rest of the world.

[@ともちっち-v5e]

Hi, Dave, what a good review. I love Seiko too. 日本から応援してるよ😍

[@fungorilla]

Do you like the black dial colourway on bracelet?

[@andresharo9929]

How would I be able to get one of these in the United States

[@krisztian3909]

Just purchased this at Tokio International Airport for JP¥48.600 = £253. 🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@rubenelizondo1947]

Hello, any recommendations on where can I buy this watch?

[@ivanfreely6366]

I don't understand why Seiko reserve certain models for the Japanese domestic market. Wouldn't it be more profitable for them to have all models available to everyone?

[@BagoGarde]

Japanese only pride, keep the best for their people.

[@rcorrino]

@@BagoGarde You'll notice even non-Japanese brands produce JDM items. Omega has several Speedmasters that are only available in Japan. Japan is a market that craves exclusivity and they are willing to pay for it so manufacturers oblige.

[@SaSpursFan]

How do you not use dark indices on a white dial watch?! Silver on white doesn’t have enough contrast

[@rcorrino]

It does. Surprisingly, it does. If anything, the 24 hour markers on the bezel should have been more of a bold font. And a better clasp. The band is acceptable but cmon, even the cheap Chinese brands do milled clasps and screwed in (not friction fit) link pins.

[@SaSpursFan]

@@rcorrino funny bc I don’t mind the seiko pressed clasp as much bc they seem to have a nice positive feed back

[@Stopher2475]

What’s the power reserve?

[@skagerstrom]

I love the overall look - but having two different 24h scales just makes it confusing :P

[@a.g.4619]

Hi Dave, this model is not available on the US market. Do you know of any reputable AD's that might be able to ship to the US from Japan?

[@billsiviter9272]

Bliger do a great Explorer GMt Homage which uses the Seiko NH34 movement it has a sliding micro adjust bracelet and is very affordable.. Why fork out for the Seiko????

[@lornahernandez8030]

Great video! I’m from USA, so where I can buy the Japan version? Did you know a trustworthy web place that ship to US?

[@rogergirouard]

NICE WATCH HAVEN'T SEEN THIS ONE

[@justinbennett9826]

What kind of leather strap was that at 7:52?

[@KyleWongCO]

Hey! Where at in Japan? Going to be living in Tokyo for a bit here soon and want to pick one of these up.

[@leohidayat6811]

There is the style 60 presage GMT.

[@98avro98]

You could have bought a Seiko Kinetic years ago. It’s a blatant copy, and massive 43.5, just like the real thing, your demo looks very small compared to the Rolex. Also got a top quality clasp. Cal 5M85 GMT. White face. Rare but the odd one crops up. The last two I have seen were NOS. I bought the first.

[@awidiarto]

Where can i buy this jdm model gmt?

[@naokimihara1575]

nice review

[@choppedandscrewedcustoms]

I'd love to have this version to bad it's only available over seas

[@deriismayandi]

I still have doubts, it's a nice piece but as a field watch the indices lume is a bit shame. My king turtle can light up to 8 hours. I know it depends on the quantity of the lumibrite, but come on Seiko it's a field watch.

[@krisztian3909]

I would pay more for a sapphire christal version. Hardlex is a no no.

[@Outdoorshuntingshooting]

I like Seiko watches, not in the market for Rolex. If I had 10 grand to chuck about it wouldn’t be in the direction of Rolex. I understand they are incredible watches and build to a standard that is all too rare these days. I have three Seiko and one Casio that all together cost less than £1k.

[@832elf]

Problem is that the watch bezel does not click in place and freely rotates, which gets easily knocked out

[@bonnystarks]

I am going to japan in a few days, where can I buy this model ? I will be located in Tokyo and Narita. Thank you :)

[@toddgaak422]

I wish Seiko would make the SUN0025 again.

[@flejmie123]

are there other models that use this bezel?

[@tiagopereira5260]

Hey! Where from do you think i should buy one of these with the white dial? (i'm european)

[@ajmarion]

Sakura Watches, they’re $319 but not in stock yet

[@amitjayakumar]

I would wear it on a silver grey NATO or a white NATO

[@kiwilonewolf]

Without the day/date complication, should it really be considered a Seiko 5?

[@lamadoo]

wish it was sapphire

[@Zedzian23]

As the natives say in Francophone Africa to the Europeans: “Vous avez des montrres, nous avon le temps.” (You have the watches, we have the time.)

[@jcaam8094]

How cute, Seiko is now an homage watch maker.

[@K.J.H_]

The only real question is; are you going white dial or black dail?

[@northerngrower-my7wb]

Looked for 3 days cant even find this watch .

[@TheEbola]

whats your wrist size

[@carlotaboada924]

I didn’t even know this option existed - very good alternative to the Polar if you are headed to a 3rd world country with a high crime rate & don’t want to be flashing some Rolex to would be thieves. I will most definitely look into it….

[@lindsayselby3647]

Absolutely gorgeous watch . I live in Australia and the cheapest I could purchase it imported to OZ is around AU$ 940.00 .plus 10% GST., if you can find one . But in all fairness FOR A SEIKO 5 gmt with a stamped clasp , pined bracelet , mineral crystal lens !!!! SERIOUSLY .